The borders placed around our houses easily allow us to forget that these areas of land are part of a wider ecological system.

Our gardens should be places for us to relax, celebrate with friends, and improve our mental and physical health but they are also vital in providing habitat for insects, small mammals, and birds. Encouraging wildlife ensures that the garden spaces remain healthy without the need for invasive techniques such as chemicals which undermine the balance of the ecology.

With the changing climate in the UK it is becoming prescient to use plants which can cope with the combination of our milder wetter winters and warmer drier summer temperatures. Phytosociology is useful in determining how communities of plants work together so that nutrient and water requirements are balanced and it is this line of horticulture which I feel is most beneficial when deciding plant choices and arrangements.

Your garden’s aspect, its microclimates, soil type, and hydrology amongst other factors dictate the choice of plants suitable - my plant knowledge will therefore ensure the planting gives you many years of pleasure.