Nurturing nature through gardening
Our Approach
Gardens are very personal. At their most effective, I believe they can become an extension of the gardener – an expression of their connection to the natural world. I also know that sometimes gardens can feel overwhelming – people can have a deep desire to garden but feel daunted about where to start. Often these fears are related to ‘getting it wrong’ or ‘killing something’, but I can tell you from long experience, with the right knowledge and techniques nature is a pretty easy-going companion, who wants your help!
I am passionate about helping people to overcome whatever is stopping them from connecting with nature. I want you to dig your hands into the lovely earth and feel it’s potential; to see the first green shoot of a plant and feel joyful; to sit in the green space you have created and feel grateful joy. When you decide to garden, you may just fancy growing some tomatoes, but I also believe that you are choosing to become one with life. That is why my approach to all of my services always has these values…
Inspiring
When asked ‘what are your aspiration for your garden’ clients sometimes have no idea or so many that it feels impossible. Whatever your starting point, I will work with you to create a plan that genuinely excites you and is also achievable. The most magical thing about a garden is that it is a dream that grows with you, and evolves to becomes more complex and rich over time. You can literally see the love that you put into it! Whenever I begin working with a client, tuning into their energy is the first, most important step, to enable us to inspire each other.
Empowering
Whatever your vision, I will give you the tools and confidence to make it happen. There is a reason I don’t offer full-service gardening, where I simply show up and just do everything for you. When I used to provide those sorts of service, I realised that the jobs I really, truly loved were not the ones where I just did the work – it was the projects where I worked collaboratively alongside my clients to empower them. Anyone can make a garden fulfil practical needs, but I also want to work with people to create space that meets emotional and energetic needs too. To make a garden that will be truly special and also sustained over time, it has to become part of the gardener who is creating it. My job is to help you to do that.
Harmonising
The word ‘harmony’ means a lot of things to me. When I work with you to create or renew your garden I will always ensure it is in harmony with:
- Your vision – taking into account both your emotional and practical goals
- The Locality – including native plants wherever possible
- Existing nature – using what is already there in terms of plants and structures
- Changing Seasons – planning for colour and interest throughout the year
- Supporting Wildlife – using plants and techniques to support local animals and pollinators
- Health Benefits – incorporating healing plants and structures that support wellbeing