Earliest garden memory Entering imaginary worlds in my Nana’s garden. Her dilapidated greenhouse, overgrown with vines climbing through broken panes of glass, cobwebs, spiders and snails, became a wild jungle to explore.
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First plant love Passion flowers. I remember being captivated by their psychedelic flowers in our garden. They looked like nothing else I’d ever seen, and I thought that they must be from another planet. They still bring me so much joy and that childlike sense of wonder and awe.
Gardening is about building relationships
Who has inspired your career the most? Jo Wenham and Cathy Cordery at Wakehurst. On my first day of training I was told “Your job is to learn as much as you can, and have as much fun as possible in the process”. The support and encouragement I’ve had from them has really helped me to grow and flourish.
Horticultural hero My dad, who is an advocate for supporting biodiversity, and who has worked in public parks and green spaces for more than 40 years. His passion and love for his work is inspirational. He’s taught me so much.
Three most worthwhile tips for every gardener Gardening is about building relationships. If you think about what qualities you want to bring to this relationship, it will help you to stay aligned with your values. Connect with other gardeners and visit other gardens, as well as events and talks to feed your inspiration – like mulch for your brain. Find time to slow down and pay attention to the garden.
Favourite planting style Experimental, wild and colourful. I love unexpected combinations and gardens where you feel the soul and love of the gardener, with as much habitat as possible woven in.
Biggest challenge facing gardeners today The climate and biodiversity crisis. The effects are evident when working in the garden. Traditional gardening practices need to shift.
Connect with other gardeners and visit other gardens, as well as events and talks to feed your inspiration – like mulch for your brain.
One easy thing gardeners can do to be more sustainable Grow from organic seed and save and share it with others. Create your own seed communities and gift economies.
What’s the next big project? We are creating a natural dye border, and an area exploring fungi and decomposition, and improving accessibility of the area. I’m excited to get started.
What are your future goals Before gardening I worked in mental health, and I now want to share the joy and therapeutic benefits of gardening and plants with as many people as possible, particularly those who may have limited access to green spaces and gardens.
In my own time I make a gardening zine called FLORXL, which brings together a range of contributors to celebrate the joy of plants and gardens, and is sold to raise money for the Lemon Tree Trust. I’d love to build the community around that. I want to look back on my career and know I’ve had a positive impact.
Instagram @_carmengardens and @florxl_zine Website kew.org/wakehurst