Unlock the skills to grow your dream garden

During the pandemic, our gardens become an oasis, with many seeking that sense of calm and sanctuary that being outdoors with nature offers.

How then to make the most of your private patch to create the garden of your dreams? If you live near the wild beauty of the coast then your garden may be exposed to strong winds and the challenge of fast-draining soil. Perhaps you live in the suburbs or a town where space is limited or a neighbouring tree is casting shade. You may have a clay soil with drainage issues and are struggling to get your plants to survive.

By understanding your soil type, direction of the sun, and topographical elements in your garden, you can create a design that is compatible with your garden features and the style you wish to achieve, whether that is contemporary, cottage or formal.

A core knowledge of plants, their structure, growth, and health, ensures that you choose plants that will not only enhance your garden, but will thrive and bring in an abundance of wildlife too. Gillian Mostyn and her husband moved to a house with a much larger garden, needing a complete overhaul. She said, “I've always loved learning new skills so decided to enroll on an RHS Level 2 course to find out how best to design, plant and maintain the garden. It has made me a confident gardener, giving me a good grounding in the practical and theoretical aspects of horticulture, such as how to plant, propagate, prune etc. I discovered how to investigate and then accept the conditions in my own garden, choosing plants and design schemes that work with them, rather than fighting against it.

Going back into studying reminded me that I enjoy learning, and gave me something to really focus on for my own sake, away from the pressures of work and family. I would happily recommend the RHS Qualification to anyone looking to have a deeper understanding for their own interest.”