How did you get started in the industry? I was fortunate enough to be employed at a breathtaking garden, the Trentham Estate, as a Historic & Botanic Garden Bursary Scheme trainee. This was a 12-month placement of exceptional training in both practical and theoretical subjects.
What advice would you give to others starting out? Never give up. If you didn’t get that job you applied for, it wasn’t meant to be. Keep raising your skill set and that job will come to those who have refused to give up.
What does your typical day involve? Each and every day can be different and that’s what makes the industry so special. Weeding tends to be in the majority of days, but that’s fine by me.
What is the best aspect of your job? I work with great people in a great place, designed by amazing designers. It is a truly inspirational garden and I cannot think of a
better place for a trainee horticulturist to hone his or her skills.
And the worst? The winters working outside can be hard. With appropriate clothing and a positive approach, it really does not begin to tarnish the effect this garden has on me.
What have you been working on recently? Having passed the RHS level 2 qualification I am now studying for my next set of exams to gain the RHS level 3 qualification.
What has been your greatest achievement at work? The chance to design the upper flower garden is definitely a highlight. This was planted up recently using 13,000 bedding plants and bulbs. These will serve to add colour to the parterres over winter and spring.
What does the future hold for the industry? Britain is an island of great gardens and gardeners. I believe it will continue to bloom and inspire the next generation of horticulturists.
How do you unwind after a hard day at work? Time with the family after work really helps me to unwind.
