Earliest garden memory My parents’ garden being filled with brightly coloured fuchsia, which is one of my mum’s favourite plants. Fuchsia ‘South Gate’ has been proudly distributed to myself and my brothers.
First plant love My introduction to plants was the Sir Harold Hillier Gardens, and I just loved the story of a tree which was thought to be extinct until a small group was rediscovered in the 1940s. The tree is Metasequoia glyptostroboides – I loved it then and still love it now.
My horticultural heroes My first tutor at Sir Harold Hillier Gardens – botanist Barry Clarke. Barry’s enthusiasm was so infectious it was impossible not to share in his passion for the fascinating world of plants. Barry taught me so much and really kick-started my horticultural career, for which I will always be grateful.
Some of the best designs can make an area look like it has been established for years when it was only planted recently
Three most worthwhile tips for every gardener Plan your time. Many jobs are time-sensitive and weather-dependent, so knowing what job is next on the list is invaluable when you get a break in the weather. Keep your tools in good condition; look after your tools and your tools will look after you. Make time to appreciate your hard work. It is easy to get distracted by what needs to be done and forget to admire what you have created.
Favourite planting style I really enjoy when ornamental planting mimics natural environments. Some of the best designs can make an area look like it has been established for years when it was only planted recently.
Biggest challenge facing gardeners today Climate change. This isn’t just the hot, dry summers – it’s the increasingly wet and mild winters. Plants are being hit from all sides. The hot, dry summers are pushing some plants to their limits, while the mild, wet winters aren’t getting cold enough to kill off some pests.
Most people had an interest in nature when they were children. Somewhere along the way, this is often lost
One easy way to be more sustainable Reduce the use of annual bedding plants bought from supermarkets. The energy used to grow and transport these plants is huge. Try growing them yourself from seed. It’s really rewarding and drastically cuts down on resource use.
Guiding principles Gardens and green spaces are for everyone and everything. We must share these spaces with nature as we are part of nature.
Career aims Most people had an interest in nature when they were children. Somewhere along the way, this is often lost. I’d love to re-introduce some of that wonder into people’s lives through their gardens or green spaces.
Instagram @southgate91
With special thanks to The Field Nursery in Gloucestershire where this portrait was taken
