Garden Design and Planning
The Garden Design and Planning service that I provide includes:
- An initial site visit and audit including the identification of existing trees, shrubs etc.
- The preparation of overall plans and planting plans to meet clients' needs and expectations
- An initial report and recommendations to improve an existing garden
When moving into a new house or deciding to ' do something about the garden' it is essential to find out what plants already exist and whether they can be incorporated into a new plan. Sometimes it is considerably cheaper to build on existing features within a garden and replant existing borders or areas rather than commit to a full garden makeover. Whatever you decide to do, my aim is to design a relaxing, stimulating garden environment which provides year long interest and, of course,meets your needs.
Wildlife Gardening
Gardens in London provide a haven for a wide variety of birds, mammals, amphibians insects and other invertebrates and can provide wildlife corridors connecting suitable habitats together. It is a misconception that you have to have a wild, overgrown and unkempt garden to attract wildlife. The creation of suitable habitats such as s pond, a meadow, a border with insect ' friendly ' plants, a hedge, or a log pile within gardens can have a dramatic effect amplify this effect and attract a wide variety of new species. In my own quite small garden in North London I attract 27 species of birds, 13 species of butterfly, 5 species of bumble bee, 4 species of dragonfly and damselfly, and 3 species of amphibians.
If you are interested in making your garden more wildlife-friendly, I can provide the following services:
- A seasonal Wildlife audit identifying the current situation with a report that identifies potential improvements and makes recommendations
- Advice on ponds, meadows (spring and summer), flowers to attract insects, and the creation of other features to attract wildlife including bird nesting sites, log piles etc
- A follow-up and monitoring service to identify the impact of any new features that you choose to introduce.
Coaching and Mentoring
As a fully qualified teacher of many years experience I can provide coaching or mentoring under a 1:1 basis or for small groups on clients' premises on a range of horticultural techniques including:
- Pruning
- Propagation
- Cultivation
- 'What plant where?'
Sessions will always be planned according to clients individual needs and could take place on a one-off basis or over the course of weeks or months to encompass seasonal requirements.
Bonsai
Whether you have one treasured bonsai, you have been given one as a gift or have a collection, I can provide you with advice and practical support in the cultivation and care of bonsai.
With over 30 years experience of growing bonsai I can provide the following:
- Repotting
- Wiring
- Cultivation
- Pruning
- Advice on developing a bonsai collection
- Advice on choosing potential bonsai from garden centre or nursery stock
- Help in selecting a bonsai from a specialist Bonsai nursery
