Earliest garden memory Summer days in my granddad’s small back garden. He had fruit trees and a greenhouse full of tomatoes; their distinctive scent reminds me of him.
First plant love Sempervivum. When I was younger a neighbour had pots full of them and kindly showed me how to take cuttings. I was fascinated with how easily they could carpet the top of a pot.
Who has inspired your career the most? Carol Klein. I watched her series Life in a Cottage Garden on repeat for her infectious love of plants and artistic approach.
Who are your horticultural heroes and why? Gertrude Jekyll because I love her application of colour theory from painting to garden design. Her clever use of plants contributed to the Arts and Crafts style, which is a favourite of mine. Derek Jarman, because I’ll always be in awe of his garden on Dungeness. The fact he chose such an unusual, challenging environment to garden in is inspirational.
Favourite garden and landscape that has influenced you A visit to Bourton House made a big impression on me. The gardens are fantastic; cheek-by-jowl planting and elaborate rooms took my breath away. I thoroughly recommend a visit.
Gardening is a creative vocation. Have fun, be adventurous, try different colour combinations and don’t be afraid to make mistakes
Three most worthwhile tips for every gardener Practise observation and be informed by your surrounding environment. Visit gardens for inspiration. Go with the conditions you have and choose plants appropriately for a thriving garden.
Dream plant destination Southeast Asia to see orchids in their native environment would be fascinating. Their bold, exotic flowers and epiphytic nature has always amazed me.
Favourite planting style Billowing, airy mixed borders of successive planting, with contrast in texture and structure, combined with self-seeders to soften hard-landscaping and add natural spontaneity. Formal meets informal.
Favourite ‘weed’ you’re happy to have in your garden Teasel (Dipsacus fullonum). It’s excellent for wildlife and provides dramatic structure over winter.
Biggest challenge facing gardeners today The unpredictable extremes in seasonal weather and the impact of this on plant health, water availability and pests.
One easy way to be more sustainable in your gardening Resist the urge to tidy everything. Leaf debris, spent seedheads and dead wood all offer wildlife habitat. Also, use flowers that are good for a range of pollinators.
Your guiding principles? Gardening is a creative vocation, and we are fortunate to have plants as a medium for expression. Have fun, be adventurous, try different colour combinations and don’t be afraid to make mistakes.
In what direction do you see horticulture heading in the next few years? An increased blend of ornamental horticulture with ecological principles.
Favourite Instagram feed @jimiblake_huntingbrookgardens and @ann_mariepowell, both for their vibrant garden styles.
Instagram @dylan_gardens