Interviews
Broadcaster Martin Fish On His Commitment To Educating And Inspiring New Gardeners
Martin Fish is a renowned Horticulturist and Broadcaster with over 45 years of experience. Over the years he has shared his expertise through a multitude of media channels, including radio, television and magazines – but you might best recognise him from his time on BBC radio or his involvement in various flower show events across the UK. Martin’s passion for gardening is best defined by his commitment to educating and inspiring others – whether they are seasoned gardeners or complete beginners – which was clearly evident during our discussion. Please note that the imagery in this article is provided courtesy of Martin Fish. Can You Tell Us About Your Earliest Memories Of Gardening And How That Influenced Your Career? “I suppose my earliest memory of gardening, like lots of people, was with my grandparents,” starts Martin. “Both of my Grandmas were very keen gardeners. One of them had a small garden, but she loved growing houseplants and tomatoes in the conservatory, whilst the other one had a big garden in Nottinghamshire where she kept animals. “As a teenager, I used to cycle down to her garden and spend the day there. I did that for years. Being outside with my Uncle (who lived there) and my Grandma was amazing. “Another of my uncles grew vegetables as a hobby and used to display his onions at shows. Between all of this is where my love of gardening started. “My plan after leaving school was to go into engineering, and work with my Dad, but I just had a moment one day where I thought, I’d much prefer to be a gardener instead. “My mum worked at a little nursery in the village during summer, so I got a part-time job there when I was 14. That was it really, I knew I wanted to work in horticulture, so the rest, as they say, is history!” How Have The Different Roles You’ve Held Over The Years In Horticulture Influenced You And Your Gardening Practice? “I started as an apprentice gardener in a Parks Department when I was 16 and I trained at college and in the Parks nursery,” he shares. “I thought at that stage I would stay in Parks and work my way up to management, but I suppose I always liked doing different things. “I loved growing plants and after 5 years working in Parks and as a Head Gardener, I bought a piece of land and started my own nursery. I thought that would be what I did forever. “I then went on to do writing, radio and television. I think having that variety has put me in a good position, as I’ve had experience in the community, industry and media sides, so I’m constantly gathering knowledge and meeting people. “As a result, it’s made me a much better gardener and I’m always growing and expanding my knowledge of horticulture.” How Do You Manage To Balance These Different Aspects Of Your Career & Do You Have A Favourite? “It’s hard to say because I genuinely do enjoy it all. I’m very lucky that I make my living doing something that I love. “Having said that, I do love the radio. I’ve done that for 30 years now for the BBC. I had a short spell broadcasting on Classic FM 20 years ago, but the BBC has been constant for me and it’s been great fun. “I get a kick out of it because it’s live, so I’m answering gardener’s questions on the spot which tests my knowledge and I get a real thrill out of it. Unfortunately, local radio is going through lots of changes at the moment, but I’m grateful for the many opportunities it has given me. “I love that I’m helping people too, as these are real problems that gardeners are having.” How Did You Transition Into Gardening Writing And What Has Been Your Most Rewarding Experience As A Writer? “That started in 1993 when we had our nursery,” Martin explains. “I thought I would enjoy writing, so I got in touch with the editor of Garden News and explained who I was and asked if there were any writing jobs. He replied saying that I could write a feature and if they liked it, they would publish it – which they did! “After I’d been writing for 3-4 years, a new editor came along and we started a demonstration garden from scratch on a small piece of land which had a flower, fruit, vegetable and herb garden. “We did lots of practical photoshoots in the garden and it was also used for radio broadcasts and TV work over the years. Creating the garden was a real highlight and led to me writing for several more gardening magazines over the years. As An Accredited RHS Judge, You Have The Opportunity To Judge Many Flower Shows. What Do You Look For When Judging And What Advice Would You Give To Aspiring Gardeners Looking To Participate? “I’ve been fortunate to judge show gardens and nursery exhibits all the RHS Show and many independent shows over the years. “My advice to an aspiring designer would be to do your research and study the criteria in detail. When judging show gardens, we look at the design to make sure it fits the client’s brief, quality of construction and the all-important planting. “Make sure the design works and build the garden as if it’s a permanent structure, so no wobbly fencing or uneven paving. Even though it’s only going to be at a show for a matter of days, build the garden as if you’re doing it for a client – the construction is vital! “Planting is also important. Plants are the stars of any garden, so choose the right plants for the right locations. For example, don’t mix plants that prefer dry soil conditions with those that prefer damp soils as it sends out the wrong message to the public. Also, try to use larger plants to get that wow factor. “With nursery exhibits in the floral marquees, we judge the quality and range of the plants, the creativity of how it’s staged and the overall finish or polish of the display. We also take into account the amount of work in growing and preparing the plants. “All exhibitors get feedback including the positive elements and how we feel it could be improved. I always say to exhibitors to take that feedback, process it and then put it into practice for your next garden or display, which will hopefully improve it!” How Do You Envision The Future Of Gardening, Especially Considering The Challenges Posed By Climate Change? “I think we all need to be careful how we garden,” he warns. “So many more people are now gardening as a hobby which is great for the industry, but I think we all need to be gardening as sustainably as possible. “There are so many plants now bought from abroad, so although it’s sustainable because of the nature of the product, it might still have a big carbon footprint. I always try to buy locally grown plants if I can. “I recycle and never throw plastic pots away – I just keep using them! With the changing climate, I also try to plant to the conditions where I live. If you have dry soil, don’t plant moisture-loving plants.” Can You Tell Us About Any Upcoming Projects? “Things we are doing more of at the moment include a mobile stage unit called The Potting Shed that myself and Jill my wife take around the country to Flower Shows,” Martin shares. “The aim is to give practical gardening talks, demonstrations and answer gardening questions. “This year, we took it to the RHS shows inside the floral marquees to help promote the nurseries, which is something I really wanted to do because of my background in nursery growing. The more we can do to give independent specialist growers a boost, the better! “We took the Potting Shed Stage to 12 different gardening events this summer and are planning to do this again next year with the RHS and several other shows. I’m really pleased with how that has been received and we also get to work with some amazing people. “We also produce a YouTube channel called Pots & Trowels which we started as a bit of fun a few years ago but have kept it going. We do a practical subject every week based on my experience and they are going really well and getting good feedback. “I’m also toying with the idea of doing a podcast, something that was suggested to me by Gardener Arit Anderson. The big ongoing project is creating a new garden from scratch at our new home, too!” Lastly, As A Person With A Wealth Of Experience In Gardening, What Advice Would You Give To Someone Just Starting Out? “Horticulture definitely needs more people in the industry of all ages, but especially young people. It’s not really offered as a career option any more, which is quite sad, as it has lots of different career avenues. “We need to find a way to promote it and to get more people into the industry. Anybody starting off, whether you’re 18 or 40, should just absorb as much information as you can. “A lot of people want to specialise which is fine, but I think it’s a good idea to take in as much information as possible. I learn something new about horticulture every day – I don’t think you could ever know it all! “For people who are just gardening for leisure, enjoy it. Plant what you like and there are lots of different ways to garden, so if it works for you, do it! “Don’t do too much in one go. If you’re just getting into gardening, don’t think that you’ve got to conquer the world straight away. Start off small and just grow a few plants at first. “People start off gardening as a hobby but it can turn into a career, so keep an open mind! When I started gardening with my Grandma almost 50 years ago I would never have thought I would have done half the things I’ve done.”
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Emma O'Neill: What It Means To Be Truly Organic In Your Gardening Approach
Emma O’Neill is the Head Gardener at Garden Organic, an organisation set up with the aim of encouraging more gardeners to garden in a more sustainable and eco-friendly way. In her role, Emma is responsible for managing and caring for the garden, leads garden tours, and marshals a dedicated group of volunteers every week. I spoke with Emma about all things Garden Organic – what it means to be truly organic in your gardening approach and the type of work gardeners should be doing right now. Please note that imagery in this guide has been provided with permission by Emma O'Neill. Watch the full conversation between Mollie Brown and Emma O’Neill here: Can you share a little bit about your background into horticulture and how you then came to work with Garden Organic? “I started studying in 2000 after I realised that I actually preferred to be outdoors, so I left my job in finance and went and did the NVQ Level 2 at a local college,” shares Emma. “This job came up, it was in a slightly different form at the time, they had actually contracted out the gardens, so I applied to the contractor to be the Head Gardener here. “One of the reasons I wanted to come was because I visited here when I did some further studying with Perthshire College, and it was sort of the beacon for organic gardening at the time. “It had been through quite a lot of changes and a reduction in staff, so it looked like a really challenging opportunity – and so I took the job!” For Those Who Might Not Know, What Kind Of Work Does Garden Organic Do? What Is The Whole Project About? “In a nutshell, its main purpose is to get as many people gardening organically as possible and they do that in a number of ways,” she shares. “Not only have we got the demonstration garden, we also conduct citizen science and research. We’ve got the Heritage Seed Library here, which is really important as that holds the National Collection for Heritage Vegetables. “We’ve also got lots and lots of community projects going on and composting is a cornerstone of that, so it’s quite a wide-reaching organisation.” Can You Explain A Little Bit About What It Means To Garden Organically? “Most people would say it’s about not using synthetics or chemicals, such as pesticides or herbicides, but it’s more than that really. “It’s trying to work with your soil, so seeing that as a living, breathing thing and helping keep that healthy. And the main thing is if the soil’s healthy, the plants are going to be healthy, so it’s key to get that aspect right. “Also, it’s about using fertilisers and feeds that are from plant-based origins, as opposed to synthetics.” Can You Explain A Little Bit About Your Role At Garden Organic? “I only have two actual employees here at the moment and the garden has changed a lot as it got rebuilt during the pandemic,” Emma explains. “It consists of a potager, an ornamental garden and it also holds the National Comfrey Collection, a title we’ve just managed to obtain from Plant Heritage. Then, we’ve got our working area, where I manage a team of roughly 15 volunteers that come in Tuesdays, Wednesdays or Thursdays, and we couldn’t do it without them. “I manage the garden, so I do get stuck in and am very hands-on. I’m always trying to keep abreast of what’s new in horticulture. We grow as much as we can ourselves, so all of our veg is always grown from seed, mainly from the Heritage Seed Library.” What Kind Of Jobs Are You Doing At The Moment In The Garden At Garden Organic? “We’re doing a lot of planning, so it’s always a great opportunity as things quieten down, even though it’s never that quiet!” she jokes. “When planning, you want to think about what went well, what didn’t go well, if you want to try other things. We also order our seeds at this time of year and will be planting some of our spring bulbs, such as daffodils. “We tend to turn our compost heaps around this time too, as we do that once a month. The more often you turn them, the quicker they’re going to decompose. “Soon, we will get to that stage where we will be cutting things down. We do try to leave as many things that are useful as possible. Anything that looks architecturally attractive will get left on, so that’s things like global artichokes. “Anything that produces seeds for birds or other wildlife or plants that provide great habitat get left too, for example, our grasses. But anything that really doesn’t have what I consider a specific purpose, we will then be cutting those down now.” Do You Have Any Exciting Projects Coming Up For The Garden Organic That You’d Like To Share? “I mentioned earlier we’ve just been awarded the National Comfrey Collection, so we’re going to be doing lots more signage to do with that and will hopefully be getting more of those plants to widen the collection,” explains Emma. “We’re hoping to build another show garden this year, as we did one last year at Gardeners’ World Live in Birmingham, so we’re hoping to do that again this year. “One of the other things that’s probably the most important thing that’s happening is that our Heritage Seed Library will be publishing their new seed list soon. So, if anybody wants to get their hands on some heritage veg, go to the website and sign up as a member and then you can get some seeds!” What’s One Piece Of Gardening Advice That You Would Give To Your Younger Self? “Patience,” she says simply. “I’m impatient. I remember when I first started, I sowed some carrots according to the packet and these carrots did nothing, and I remember phoning up my tutor and saying: ‘I’m terrible, I’m going to get the sack’! “He said you need to get more in tune with the weather. It’s too cold, so they’re not going to grow, and also you need to be more patient. And that’s what I’ve learnt that sometimes, there’s no such thing as instant gardening.”
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Advice For Crafting Harmonious Gardens With Distinguished Designer Lottie Delamain
Lottie Delamain, a distinguished English Garden Designer, has dedicated several years to crafting breathtaking gardens that perfectly harmonise wild and refined aesthetics. With unorthodox beginnings in textile design, Lottie has transferred her love of colour and pattern to her design practice – and is now celebrated for her lush, romantic outdoor spaces that engage all of the senses. She is also a Trustee of Grow, an organisation that centres around getting young people involved in food production. Please note that the imagery in this article is provided courtesy of Dave Watts and Billy Bolton. What is your earliest memory of gardening? “My earliest gardening memory is of my mother pulling up new potatoes and getting very excited about how delicious they were, but I didn’t really get the excitement!” shares Lottie. Image credit: Dave Watts “I distinctly remember her saying ‘you’ll get it when you’re older’ – and she was right. Although the idea of gardening didn’t immediately grab me, I was always really interested in the natural world as a child. “We lived in the countryside and I had a pony and I’d go out with my notebooks and collect leaves and flowers to press.” How did your background in textiles inform your approach to garden design, especially when you were just starting out in this new field? “The move from textiles to gardens was much less intimidating than I anticipated,” she reflects. Image credit: Billy Bolton “There is actually a lot of cross-over in form, pattern, colour and texture. The same could probably be said of lots of design disciplines. I think having some design experience gave me the confidence to experiment and explore, and have faith that something would materialise out of the process. “I wasn’t so worried about getting it right and didn’t find a blank piece of paper completely overwhelming.” Can you discuss the process of conceptualising and creating your first show garden at RHS Chelsea? “The idea for my garden for Chelsea had been percolating in my mind for years, ever since I went trekking in Northern Vietnam in 2013 and came across a very rudimentary dye garden where women were growing indigo and hemp to make their clothes. “It wasn’t until I came across Project Giving Back in 2021 that I began to develop it and think it could actually come to life as a show garden. There are so many elements to a garden at Chelsea, but at the heart of it, it’s about telling a story. Image credit: Dave Watts “I contacted Fashion Revolution early on in the application process, as I knew they would be fantastic partners to help bring this particular story to life. The application process is very thorough – as you’d expect of RHS Chelsea – but it’s good because you’re testing your concept all the way through to make sure it really works. “Design-wise I knew what I wanted to do: create a garden that looked like a textile with a woven tapestry of plants that could be used to make dye or fiber. “However, the biggest challenge was finding enough dye and fiber plants that fitted this brief and would be in flower for the end of May and deliver enough ornamental value for a show garden. “Lots of them I had never grown before or worked with, so it felt like flying blind at times. However, I was lucky to work with a very experienced nursery, Kelways, who rose to the challenge and guided me through the process.” As a trustee of Grow, how do you integrate sustainability and community engagement in your design projects? “Grow is a fantastic charity – illustrate in a beautifully simple way how having access to green space and growing some veg can have such a broad range of benefits,” says Lottie. “Being a trustee has reinforced my belief that everyone should have access to green spaces, irrespective of background or postcode, as it is fundamental to us as individuals and as a society. Image credit: Billy Bolton “In terms of how I work: I work hard to ensure that clients feel connected to their gardens and that the garden feels like theirs and somewhere they can engage with nature, not feel intimidated by it. “Feeling connected to the natural world is crucial if we are asking people to protect it for future generations.” What advice would you give to novice gardeners who are looking to develop a personal style or theme for their garden? “My advice would be start with what you love,” she advises. “Find a starting point that inspires joy, be it a plant that reminds you of someone, a colour in a painting you love or a material you like. Use this as the anchor and make a mood board to help you visualise the look and feel you’re aiming for. “Refer back to this as you design and develop your garden. Don’t worry about it all being perfect. Experiment and learn by doing. A bit like trying to learn to cook only from looking at cookbooks, you can only really learn to garden by gardening and getting your hands dirty.” How do you stay inspired? What motivates you? “I live in Somerset and walk a lot – preferably first thing while the chaos of breakfast is going on. I am trying to make room for a few days every other month or so in London to soak up art. “It’s so easy not to allow this time but I find it beneficial for gathering thoughts for the ideas bank, which sometimes take years to find a home, but they always do. “In terms of motivation, I really believe in gardens as a force for good, as it’s such a pleasure to give people the opportunity to enjoy them and engage with plants and the natural world.” How do you see the landscape of garden design changing in the future, and how do you plan to adapt your practice to these changes? “It goes without saying that designing with the climate in mind is a top priority,” states Lottie. “It’s built into how I think about gardens from the start – whether clients ask for it or not. This applies to sustainable materials choices and climate-resistant planting, but also thinking about long-term use of the garden and how it will evolve as children grow up or adults move into different stages of their lives. “I hope we’ll see more innovations in materials for the mass market. For example. clever use of recycled materials and new bio-materials, which at the moment are quite limited and prohibitively expensive for most.” What are your future plans or upcoming projects that you are excited about? “I have lots of great projects on at the moment. These include a steep ‘jungly’ garden by the sea, a lovely big country garden in Somerset and a couple of smaller London projects which are like little jewels and always a joy to design. Image credit: Dave Watts “I’ve also got a few commercial projects on which is a great muscle to be stretching and a different skill-set entirely. “I’m doing more writing which is a great excuse to research a topic and meet fascinating people, and I’d love to work more with brands who want to use gardens and plants to tell their story. And, of course, lots more pottering in my own garden, which always seems to fall to the bottom of the list…”
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RHS Gold-Medalist Sarah Eberle: 'I'm Moving More Towards Agroforestry And Permaculture'
Renowned English Garden Designer Sarah Eberle has delighted many a gardener with her award-winning show gardens. With a record-holding twenty Gold Medals from show gardens at RHS Chelsea and Hampton Court, Sarah was recognised as an RHS Iconic Horticultural Hero in 2022 – and has played pivotal roles in various horticultural societies and councils. I spoke to Sarah about her wonderful career and found out which of her many show gardens has a special place in her heart! Please note that the imagery featured in this article is provided courtesy of Sarah Eberle. What are your earliest memories of gardening? “We had quite a large garden in Dartmouth and it was very steep,” shares Sarah. “I remember my mother would struggle to get things around the garden. My overriding memory is how long it took for things to grow. “It also left me with a dislike of Hydrangeas and Fuchsias, which took a long time to throw off! “My strongest memory is of the landscape and nature rather than gardening. Long days playing in the woods and wandering the country lanes made an indelible mark and gave me a lifetime passion for landscape.” Can you tell us about your journey from qualifying as a Landscape Architect in 1980 to becoming the most decorated designer in RHS Chelsea Flower Show history? “How much time have you got?” Sarah jokes. “I guess the most striking element is that I have for all but 8 years been my own boss, either in my own company or as a freelance consultant. That has given me the opportunity and freedom to experiment and to take on challenges I might otherwise not get. “In my early years, I had a design and build company and that taught me the complexities of running a construction project. I have had an extraordinary respect for contractors since. “I started building show and event gardens in my early days and on moving to Hampshire in 1990, that translated into exhibiting at RHS Shows.” How has your approach to garden design evolved over the years? “It has taken me a long time to evolve into what I am today. So much has changed in the last 40 years and the industry is, in some ways, hardly recognisable. “I have never really had a style, but my interest in sustainable landscape and my passionate belief in nature and wellbeing has allowed me to develop an approach that is hopefully of its time.” Among your show gardens, which one holds a special place in your heart and why? “I guess it has to be the Life on Mars Garden (600 Days with Bradstone), as it was so different from mainstream design and had such an impact on so many people that it catapulted me into a new level of recognition within the industry,” shares Sarah. “I still can’t believe I had the brevity to attempt this at RHS Chelsea!” In 2022, you were made an RHS Iconic Horticultural Hero. What does this recognition mean to you? “It was such an honour and a welcome surprise – it completely knocked me backwards! “It is so humbling to realise how others see you when your own self-image is rather less than that. “I think there are quite a few like me who suffer from some level of imposter syndrome.” What’s one piece of gardening advice you wish you could tell your younger self? “There is no right and wrong,” she says. “Just go for it.” Are there any trends in garden design that you’re particularly interested in exploring further? “I am moving more towards agroforestry and permaculture with a wider interest in sustainability and communities,” Sarah shares. “A garden is a great place to practise before attempting larger projects.” Are there any upcoming projects or shows that you’re particularly excited about? “I am currently working on the project of my dreams and have been for the past two years. Who knows what the future will bring? “I am fortunate that at my age I am laid back and philosophical about what comes next. Whatever it is, I am sure I will make the most of it.”
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How Gardener Sue Fisher Keeps Up With New Developments In The World Of Horticulture
With a wealth of experience spanning several decades, Sue Fisher works professionally as a Garden Designer, Writer and Speaker. Sue has authored many books on gardening (including ones in collaboration with the BBC) offering insights into creating beautiful yet practical outdoor spaces that harmonise with the natural world. I spoke to Sue about her work with the BBC, the common challenges facing gardeners today and how she sees the changing climate affecting horticulture in the future. What Initially Piqued Your Interest In Horticulture? “My mother,” Sue simply states. “She was and still is, at the age of 94, a very keen gardener. When I was small, I was given my very own patch of garden which I loved. It was something I did out of choice. “I’ve always loved being outdoors, so it’s just one of those things that appealed to me in a way that other things didn’t. I tried agriculture first, then went into horticulture and realised it was where I wanted to be, and here I am, 40 years later.” What Motivated The Transition From A Role In The Trade To Becoming A Self-Employed Garden Writer And Designer? “The better you get at it, the more you get promoted and move away from the actual career!” she jokes. “It was one of those things where I loved what I was doing but the thing I really loved was enthusing about plants, so one of my responsibilities was promoting the plants across garden centres. “I was doing lots of talks and getting people excited about gardening, so it made sense to give freelancing a go. I thought if it didn’t work out, I’d go back into the trade. “Luckily, it just took off and I’ve not looked back – I’m very fortunate.” How Did Your First Book Project With The BBC Come About, And What Impact Did It Have On Your Career Trajectory? “That was a very serendipitous meeting and one thing I would say to aspiring gardeners is to make the most of those meetings if they ever happen to you! “I’d been invited to give a local gardening talk near where I lived with other incredible experts, including the late Geoff Hamilton from Gardeners’ World. “The talk I did was on planting a small garden and a couple of weeks later, I got a call letting me know that the BBC were looking for someone to a book on the subject. “Once I picked myself up off the floor, I said yes – and that really opened the door to so many things for me. I ended up doing several books with the BBC after that.” Among The Ten Solo Books You Have Published, Which One Holds A Special Place For You And Why? “‘Essential Plants For Small Gardens’ was one of my favourites, even though it is out of print now,” shares Sue. “It combined a lot of the planting advice with advice for growing the plants themselves. It was about making gardening less scary and making it user-friendly. “Although people might only have a tiny space, it was about showing them how to make the most of it. “I’ve done several books on containers that are always very close to my heart because you can have so much fun with them!” Horticulture Is Ever-Evolving. How Do You Keep Up With New Developments And Continue Learning? “I’m really delighted to see the change that has come about in horticulture because gardening sustainably is something that has always been close to my heart,” she says. “I’ve been an organic gardener throughout my career. To keep up with the learning, I do a lot of reading and belong to various professional organisations, including those that specialise in the climate and wildlife. “I do several hours of reading a week to keep up with everything!” Are There Any Common Mistakes Beginner Gardeners Make That Can Be Easily Avoided? “It’s very easy to get tempted into purchasing plants because they look gorgeous. “The often-used mantra of making sure you have the right plant for the right place is important because plants are like people – they all have their own likes and dislikes.” How Do You See Gardening Evolving With The Increasing Emphasis On Sustainability And Eco-Friendliness? “With gardening, I’m optimistic,” Sue shares. “There is a big move now towards sustainability on many levels, so there’s a lot of research going on into products that make a positive impact on the environment. “Yes, there’s a little bit of greenwashing going on, and I do wear a cynical hat, so there are things out there that look good but are not so beneficial. “Despite that, it is heading in a very positive direction. Anyone with a garden has the power to make a very positive impact in so many different ways.” What’s Next For You? “I’ve got some fabulous projects coming up,” reveals Sue. ‘I do private garden design and consultation as plants are my strength and I love them! I’ve got some lovely private gardens and sites down on the Cornwall coast which I am about to start on. “I continue to write a monthly feature on ‘Must Have Plants’ for Gardens Answers magazine, as well as a lot of regular writing for Gardeners’ World. I love doing these as it really puts people in touch with plants and gardening. “I’ve also got some garden tours coming up next year which is always nice, as I can work directly with gardeners and spread the joy of plants. The great thing about being freelance is that no two weeks are ever the same.”
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Be Inspired! Noel Kingsbury Reflects On The Memorable Moments From His Career
Noel Kingsbury is an influential figure at the heart of the UK sphere of horticultural consultancy and planting design. With a career spanning several decades, he is particularly noted for his advocacy of naturalistic and sustainable garden design – and his continued efforts to join ecological principles with aesthetic appeal. Through his books, workshops, and projects – with insight grounded in the application of thorough research – Noel continues to inspire a new generation of gardeners. Please note that the imagery in this article is provided with permission, courtesy of Noel Kingsbury and Malgorzata Kiedrzynska. Your Journey In Horticulture Began At A Young Age. How Did This Early Passion Shape Your Career And Your Approach To Horticulture? “My father was a very keen gardener, so as a child, I would be out in the garden with him,” shares Noel. “My mother wasn’t a gardener, but she did know the names of all of the wildflowers, which I picked up from her.” You Have Been Professionally Active In Horticulture Since 1986. Looking Back, What Were Some Of The Most Memorable Moments From Your Career? “I used to have a small nursery business, so the first time I did an RHS show was probably the most memorable and career-changing experience,” he says. Image by: Malgorzata Kiedrzynska “It was quite intimidating on that occasion, but I got a lot of interest from people and it was definitely a major moment in my career. To be able to go to these shows was such a wonderful thing, but the RHS don’t run them on a monthly basis anymore.” With Over 25 Books Written On Various Aspects Of Plants And Gardens, Which One Is Your Favourite And Why? “‘The New Perennial Garden’, which came out in 1996, was a real breakthrough for me,” Noel explains. “It was based on some wonderful work I had come across in Holland and Germany, which was all about selecting plants from a garden in a scientific way from particular habitats. “That book sold well and I think one of the strong features in it was these tables we had where we packed in as much information as we could, and people said to me that the knowledge there was really valuable. “I most enjoyed doing a book called Garden Flora, which came out about 6 years ago. It was a source of non-horticultural aspects of garden plants, which had to do with their history and cultivation. “Once I’d cracked it with the illustrations from old catalogue prints, that historical overview of how plants got from the wild into our gardens was really fascinating. I’m really proud of that one.” You Have Also Launched Garden Masterclass Which Runs Day Workshops Throughout The British Isles. Can You Share Some Success Stories From These Workshops? “When the pandemic happened, myself and Annie Guilfoyle, whom I have a business with, decided to take our content online and upload videos to share with people. “During the first two months of lockdown, we did a broadcast 5 days a week where we interviewed lots of gardeners and horticulturists on a donations-only basis and we instantly created this global gardening community. “It was an emotional survival tool for lots of people during that time. Once lockdown was lifted, we dropped the live broadcast down to once a week, and now we have expanded to do courses and webinars. “We’re still trying to develop it and looking to commission some films in the future. It’s been a hugely exciting journey.” How do you stay updated with the evolving trends in planting design? “The key thing is to try and create plantings that are sustainable and actually benefit wider biodiversity,” he advises. “I think it’s really important that all plantings have wildlife in mind, and we should be looking at public spaces and parks with conservation at the forefront so there is no conflict between that and functionality. “The crucial thing is to create planting combinations that are stable enough to become artificial ecosystems. Quite a few of us have been working on that for years now. “We’ve learnt a lot, but we still have a lot to learn. For me, it’s very important to get out and about and see what other people are doing.” What Is Your Favourite Thing About Your Job? “I think it is the work I do with Garden Masterclass. It’s that opportunity to be part of and help create a community. It is also an opportunity to travel. I love putting people in touch with each other. “One of my favourite things I did was mentor a woman in Argentina over email who went out and did everything I suggested and really began to build up a practice, using native plants for the first time ever from where she was living in Uruguay. “Somebody else popped up in Southern Brazil who wanted to do a similar thing, and I managed to put them in contact, so they began to fly out to each other to work together. “It was wonderful to have passed that knowledge on. It was a really special experience.” Are There Any Upcoming Publications Or Projects That You Are Particularly Excited About? “I’m working on a planting design for a new garden in Regent’s Park in London,” explains Noel. “It is a one-hectare site which is still in the planting stages, but we are hoping for an opening in 2026. That’s really exciting to be working on.”
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Cecily Withall: The First Female Climbing Arborist At Kew Gardens Since The 80s
Cecily Withall is the first female Climbing Arborist employed at Kew Gardens since the 1980s and is passionate about paving the way for other women in horticulture. Having trained at The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh and working her way from an apprentice at Kew to her current role, she has already made a tremendous impact in such a short time. I spoke to Cecily about her upbringing in Scotland, her journey into horticulture and her plans to advocate for careers in the industry. Please note that the imagery in this article has been provided with permission by Curve Media. Where Did Your Interest In Trees Begin? “I grew up in Scotland, just outside of Edinburgh,” Cecily begins. “My dad was a Forester and, as kids, we were super keen to see what he was up to, which definitely sparked something in me. “I left school and didn’t really have any passion or know what I was going to do. I worked in Edinburgh as a waitress for a couple of years and got to a point where I wanted to find my own path. “I began working on farms abroad and I loved being outside. My grandparents had a farm when we were really young, so it felt like a totally normal thing for me to do. I then came back to Scotland and volunteered at a local garden that passed on lots of knowledge to me. “All of this experience led me to a Diploma at the Royal Botanic Gardens in Edinburgh, which is where I found my passion for trees.” Can You Tell Us More About Your Experiences At The Royal Botanic Gardens in Edinburgh? “I did a two-year Diploma at Edinburgh which was botanical-based and was perfect for me – I got to learn everything from the bottom up since I didn’t have much previous experience. “Through that, I did a placement with their tree team, and it was during that time that I could see myself specialising in that. I discovered that tree cutting wasn’t just about slashing and making money out of timber. “I was pushed towards Kew because of their team climb, so I went on placement there for a couple of months and absolutely loved it – I was climbing on my first day! I loved it so much that when I came back to Edinburgh, I begged to go back. “As I was nearing the end of my two years at Edinburgh, I was initially planning on staying on for further studies, but I was told that Kew had an apprenticeship that they wanted me to apply for. I realised that that was my chance and I applied, got the place and moved to London. “I did two years of that apprenticeship and got lots of qualifications through an external board, which was amazing. At the end of my time there, a job came up in the unit, so I applied and got it, and I’ve been there ever since! I love it.” Could You Tell Us About A Particularly Rewarding Experience You’ve Had While Working At Kew? “Every day is different, which is the most incredible part about it,” says Cecily. “No day is just climbing and cutting, there are so many departments across Kew that we work with too. “The collections that we have at Kew are really important and we have to learn to protect it, so those parts are really invigorating because they instil that you are doing something important. “I also love being part of amazing projects with Kew, such as the log trails for kids. For my young nieces and nephews to come and visit the gardens and be a part of the work I have done – it’s really amazing.” How Does The Changing Seasons Affect Your Work And Do You Have A Favourite Season To Work In? “We work all year, but my favourite season is coming into spring when everything starts appearing again from the dead or this time of year when all the colour appears,” she shares. “Growing up in Scotland means that heat is not my best friend, so this temperature is perfect for me! The colours here are insane when it gets into the autumn. “Obviously, we are climbing different trees throughout the year, so seeing them go through that change is what makes my job so interesting.” Can You Share Any Projects You’re Currently Working On Or Looking Forward To? “The next key date for the team is Christmas, so at the moment we are looking at the trail to see what trees need to be lifted. “We’ll also help to put up the lights at Christmas. We are quite a small team for 12,000 trees, so it does take some planning!” Lastly, What Are Your Goals For The Future? “I’m the first female arborist climber at Kew since 1980,” explains Cecily. “We’ve had lots of students, but it’s only been me employed as an actual climber. “Last year, I was involved in Women in Arboriculture Day which was run by the Arboriculture Association. In the future, I want to continue joining these groups to advocate for women within the industry. “I have been lucky to be involved with men who were really keen to share all of their knowledge with me during my career, but other women have not been so lucky. In the future, I want to be a part of these groups and advocate for it as a role in general, not just for women. “Through Kew, the relationships I’ve made with others in the industry are really inspiring and have allowed me to create a path for myself. I’ve been so lucky and just want to share my own knowledge going forward.”
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How Garden Photographer Stephen Studd Uses First Light To Capture The ‘Perfect Image’
Working as a Photographer for over 30 years, Stephen Studd stepped back from the travel aspect of his freelance career to specialise in flower and garden photography, which he developed a passion for in 2008. His work has since been featured in various popular publications and he has worked with numerous high-profile clients, including the RHS. Stephen is also the Chair of the Professional Garden Photographers Association and a Garden Media Guild committee member. I spoke to Stephen as he shared how he captures the perfect image, why he began photographing plants and some new projects in the pipeline. Please note that the imagery used in this article has been provided with permission from Stephen Studd. All images are copyrighted. How Did You Get Into Photography And Garden Photography In Particular? “In art class at school we were shown how to print a black and white photograph from a negative in the darkroom,” Stephen begins. “When the image started to appear in the chemical tray from a blank sheet of photographic paper, it was a life-changing moment and I knew I wanted to be a photographer. Copyright Stephen Studd Photography “I took an A-level in Photography at college and went on to study Photography and Film as a degree at the London College of Printing in London. I then went on to become a professional freelance travel and landscape photographer, travelling the world for 30 years and living the dream. “During that time, in 2008 I was commissioned to take photographs for a book by Rachel Corby called ‘The Medicine Garden’, illustrating medicinal herbs, which was a big move away from my travel photography. “This was another life-changing moment, as I moved into garden photography.” What Is It About Plants And Gardens In Particular? “I have gardening in my blood, passed on from my grandfather, who was a Head Gardener in Leeds, and from my father, who was an amazing gardener himself,” he shares. “My travel photography career took me away from the UK a lot and I lived in a flat in London with no garden. When I moved to Wales, I finally had a garden that was overgrown and I designed and built a new organic garden there. Copyright Stephen Studd Photography “We moved to Gloucestershire, where I live now, and had a blank canvas to work with and an organic no-dig allotment. Growing plants that you like, especially now as a garden photographer, also means you have subject matter to photograph. “I love growing organic vegetables and fruit which are great subjects for my photography. I also enjoy creating and developing a garden and I am lucky that our garden has great light in it for photography. “I also travel to photograph gardens in locations around the UK and love to see how they have been put together.” How Do You Go About Capturing The ‘Perfect Image’? “As with my travel and landscape photography, early starts are a big part of it. Getting to a location before the sun rises is essential for capturing that beautiful first light. Copyright Stephen Studd Photography “For me, garden photography is all about backlighting and softer light which you get at this time of day.” What Has Been One Of Your Favourite Experiences During Your Career? “Hanging out of a helicopter for a photo shoot that I was commissioned to photograph in the Maldives,” says Stephen. “This was before drone photography!” Can You Explain Some Of The Challenges With Garden Photography? “I’m sure every garden photographer will say the weather, as we are a bit obsessed with it,” he jokes. Copyright Stephen Studd Photography “Wind and rain are obviously the most challenging, as photoshoots have to be worked around until they are ideal for photography. You have to be very patient when waiting for the right conditions, which I luckily am! “Of course, there have to be the right light conditions for a particular time when a garden is looking its best, and these don’t always match together. A good example would be this year’s [2023’s] challenging summer.” How Do You Go About Photographing Gardens? What Is Unique About Your Process? “Planning a photo shoot around the best light conditions is essential, which means pre-dawn starts. I have a camper van which helps with being near or on location to start the day. Copyright Stephen Studd Photography “I wouldn’t say I have a unique process, as all garden photography is about capturing beautiful light on a garden at a particular time. “You have to be prepared to get up very early and work until late, which can mean very long days in the summer, but it has always remained an immense pleasure to be on location before the sun rises and before it sets to capture the light at these times of the day.” What Advice Would You Give Anyone Starting Out With Garden Photography? “I advise you to follow your passion and develop your style,” he shares. “Try not to imitate others and go where your photography takes you. I was fortunate to learn the craft of photography at a degree level, which taught me the technical side of photography. Copyright Stephen Studd Photography “However, you can teach yourself too, as there are so many resources on the internet and workshops to go on. I enjoy running workshops on garden photography and truly believe in photographers finding their own unique style. “Garden photography, like travel and landscape photography, is all about capturing the beauty of gardens and plants in lovely light.” What’s Next For You? “Last year I started a new project called the Garden Photography Gallery which is an online shop for fine art garden and flower photography prints and greeting cards,” explains Stephen. Copyright Stephen Studd Photography “I am building up new collections of images to populate it with and will start to showcase different garden photographers and their photography on the site. “On top of that, I am always busy photographing gardens for clients, features and stock.”
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Todd Longstaffe-Gowan: Studying Obscure And Unconventional English Garden Makers
An award-winning Landscape Architect, Todd Longstaffe-Gowan has a passion for the historical and cultural potential of landscapes. Todd has worked across a host of mammoth projects (both in size and stature) in the years since entering private practice in 1990. He sits on several garden advisory boards, including the Historic Royal Palaces. As the author of several books, his latest publication ‘English Garden Eccentrics’ studies a series of obscure and unconventional English garden-makers from the last few centuries. In this interview with Horticulture Magazine, Todd describes his approach to redeveloping historical landscapes and shares some of the backdrops that have inspired him throughout the years. Please note that all imagery in this article has been provided with permission by Todd Longstaffe-Gowan. How Did Your Early Interest In Environmental Studies Evolve Into A Passion For Landscape Architecture? “Environmental Studies, as it was then called, was a multi-disciplinary environmental design programme at the university I attended,” says Todd. “It formed the basis for subsequent studies in architecture and landscape architecture. I decided to specialise in the latter in my fourth year. “I had always been a keen natural historian and gardener and had a great interest in spatial design.” Looking Back At Your Career, What Would You Say Are The Milestones That Shaped Your Journey? “The peripatetic nature of my childhood was among the single greatest contributors to my personal development,” he explains. “I grew up and was educated in South and Central America and the West Indies and was encouraged by my parents to indulge my natural curiosity.” Can You Describe Your Approach To Conserving And Redeveloping Historic Landscapes While Maintaining Their Original Essence? “I enjoy landscapes that are multi-layered. This means landscapes, whether mundane or extraordinary, that are rich in cultural, social and ecological significance and encourage us to explore and contemplate complex and conflicting legacies. “Although I have worked on the conservation of many historic landscapes, I do not strive obsessively for authenticity or historical fidelity. I prefer evocation as it is, in my view, neither possible nor desirable to replicate with any degree of certainty earlier designed landscapes. “I believe it is better to conjure the spirit of a place.” How Do You Continue To Find Inspiration And Stay Innovative In Your Work? “I am curious and find myself agreeably stimulated by being exposed to what is new, unfamiliar, unpredictable and uncertain,” he says. “One of the most compelling attributes of landscape design is the instability of one’s own creations. I love and embrace the inherent dynamism of ecological processes and the inevitability of change.” Can You Share Some Of Your Favourite Gardens Or Landscapes, Either One You’ve Worked On Or Others That Inspire You? “When I was young, I was enthralled by the Cerro de Santa Lucia (Sta Lucia Hill),” Todd shares. “This lofty volcanic plug at the heart of Santiago de Chile was for a short, but very memorable time, my childhood playground. I was later overwhelmed by the sublimity of Machu Pichu, which I visited in the late 60s – when llamas outnumbered tourists! “I have always been beguiled by landscapes in decline and enlivened by ruins. They are landscapes of memory and imagination, and they evoke impermanence and the inevitability of change.” How Do You Ensure That Your Projects Are Environmentally Sustainable? “As a design studio, we’re interested in the dynamic conservation of ecosystems and landscapes to ensure the continuity of as many ecological processes as possible,” he says. “To this end, we collaborate with ecologists and other specialists to guide and inform our proposals. We are furthermore committed to responding proactively to the impact of climate change and to be nature-positive. “In as much as we often work on designed landscapes of outstanding historic importance, we are keen to manage change by retaining and enhancing key features of cultural significance whilst also considering how we can respond positively to the challenges of climate change and biodiversity loss, as well as to managed decline, and the acceptance of loss.” Are There Any Upcoming Projects That You Are Particularly Excited About? “We are currently collaborating with Historic Royal Palaces in the review of their Conservation Management Plan for the gardens and estate at Hampton Court Palace,” shares Todd. “This exercise is not merely a perfunctory quinquennial review of its management and maintenance prescriptions, but also the cultural assumptions that underpin it. “This includes rebalancing interpretation or evocation of the past with awareness of the present, challenging established ways of thinking and feeling about the gardens and the wider estate and assessing the need for a new approach to visitor engagement and to managing visitor expectations. “I have been closely involved with the royal estate for almost thirty years and look forward to this exciting new chapter in the long-term management of this exceptional cultural landscape.” What Advice Would You Give To Aspiring Landscape Architects? “Be bold and trust your intuition.”
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