My Life in Plants
The first plant I ever grew
From the age of seven I helped my father, who was a postman, grow and train his sweet peas for the local shows. I took off the lower tendrils, while he concentrated on those growing above my head!
The plant that shaped the gardener I am today
I fell in love with delphiniums after first seeing an exhibit by Blackmore & Langdon Ltd. Ever since I’ve strived to get good quality plants that are easily raised from seed.
The plant that made me work hardest
I’ve been trying to discover the best way home gardeners could grow all kinds of peppers. I’ve found best results come from growing them in bottomless pots sat on growing bags and siting them where they get plenty of light and air, ideally on benches.
My favourite plant in the world
In my twenties I had a cherished collection of 20 or so bonsai Japanese maples. I eventually planted them in the ground outside. I still have a few and they’ve grown to more than 4.5m (15ft) in height.
The plant I’d like to grow more of
Delphiniums have always been my love and I’d like to see more gardeners trying to grow them again, too. I’m still trying to improve their performance when raising them from seed.
The plant I am in human form
I was told I’m a hardy perennial that keeps coming back year after year, and still growing strong at the age of 74.
The plant that helped shape my life
Seeds have had a profound influence on my life. Producing flower seeds commercially enabled me to visit places such as California, Costa Rica, Chile and Europe.
The plant I’d always give as a gift
Because of my ability to grow plants I’ve always been able to give people whatever plants they like. In the past few years I’ve given many orchids as presents.