Photo credit: Baltimore Sun/Amy Davis

My neighbor and gardening guru Bob likes to chide me about my futile attempts to create an English cottage garden -- in Maryland. In August. In the heat. He laughs at me and my attempts to grow delphiniums.

For those who want to experience the real thing, the Maryland Horticultural Society and the Federate Garden Clubs of Maryland are hosting a tour of homes and gardens in the north and east of England, June 6 through 18, and there are spots left!

The tour includes 17 gardens and homes over 11 days in East Anglia and into the heart of Yorkshire.

The cost of the trip depends on the number of participants who have signed up by March 30, but it should range between $2,400 and $2,900. Airfare is not included, but there will be an effort to secure a group rate.

For more information, call Mary Jo Sherrod, 410-836-8239.