Project 1: Patio Transformation

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Whilst the rest of this wonderful garden was flourishing, the kitchen patio had been neglected. The client wanted to bring it to life and create a space surrounded by plants without any major hard landscaping or a complete re-design. Challenge accepted!

There were key practicalities to consider. The patio is north facing so in shade most of the day, it sits along the back of the house with drains, pipes and little 'diggable' ground to use. The windows to the house are low and there needed to be access to an outdoor tap. So I kept it simple. 

Firstly, the small strip of ground was weeded, rubble and stones removed and soil evened out. A layer of weed suppressant was put down and covered in shingle that complemented the colour of the red brick walls. The space was thoroughly measured so that I could then find the perfect containers to maximise the planting and give the right look and feel with the rest of the garden. 

After drilling holes, lining the containers and adding grit for drainage, I then focused on the planting. Shade loving perennials such as Astilbe 'Red Sentinal', Anemone 'Wild Swan', Astrantia 'Florence' and Liriope 'Munro White' were mixed with biennial Digitalis purpurea (Foxglove) 'Dalmatian Peach' to give a bit of the wow factor. Some plants where chosen to reflect the planting in other shady areas of the garden and others (Foxgloves) were added as the client simply loved them. 

A great project making the most of an unloved corner of a garden. Get in touch if you 'd like to makeover an area of your outdoor space. 

Partnering with Oxalis Design Studio, I had the opportunity to be part of the world's greatest flower show. The task was to provide planting in all of the public eating and drinking areas to fully immerse visitors in beautiful floral displays throughout their Chelsea experience. 

I was involved from the initial plant selection stage at the beginning of April where I helped choose and curate top quality plants. Collaborating with the nurseries,  I then nurtured these plants in the weeks running up the show to ensure they were watered, staked, deadheaded and disease & pest free. The ultimate goal was to have all plants looking their absolute best for Chelsea week.

Working with the brilliant Oxalis team, all the plants and planters were transported to the show site a week before the grand opening. We planted everything up in a range of colourful combinations and schemes featuring both edible and ornamental plants. Strawberry plants at the Pimms stand, trees in coffee sacks, eye catching planters around seating and queuing areas and smaller pots on counters. 

A fabulous experience to work as part of a team and be behind the scenes playing a role in delivering and showcasing the highest in horticultural standards. Get in touch if you'd like some inspiration or help looking after your garden plants.