Love Your Lawn event at Dobbies’ Perth store

Dobbies Garden Centres will host a free Grow How workshop at its Perth location in partnership with Alzheimer’s Research UK to support Dementia Action Week, scheduled for May 19-25.

The workshop, titled Love Your Lawn, highlights the cognitive benefits of gardening while raising awareness and funds for dementia research. Sessions will take place Saturday, May 3, and Wednesday, May 7, at 10:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m., respectively.

Dobbies’ Green Team will lead 15-minute interactive demonstrations focusing on lawn maintenance basics, including live instruction on lawn repair using grass plugs. Attendees of all skill levels are encouraged to participate and ask questions.

The event also supports the Think Brain Health campaign by Alzheimer’s Research UK, which promotes proactive brain health through three pillars: love your heart, stay sharp and keep connected. Gardening is framed as a productive activity that supports both mental and physical well-being.

Nigel Lawton, plant buyer at Dobbies, said the company is excited to offer expert-led education to customers. “Spring is the perfect time to prepare your lawn for the warmer months, and our Green Team is ready to help customers feel confident in lawn care,” he said. “We encourage attendees to support Alzheimer’s Research UK’s mission by donating if they’re able.”

Samantha Benham-Hermetz, executive director at Alzheimer’s Research UK, said the collaboration is a chance to both educate and empower. “Nearly half of dementia cases could be prevented by managing modifiable risk factors, yet awareness is low,” she said. “Partnering with Dobbies during Dementia Action Week allows us to spotlight simple ways people can care for their brains.”

As part of the initiative, Dobbies is also inviting local community garden applicants to its May 3 event. One group will be awarded gardening tools, products, and support hours from Dobbies staff.

Customers can register for the Love Your Lawn session at www.dobbies.com/events.