Question 1

What services do you offer?

Accepted Answer

We provide garden design and garden consultation services and  personalised planting advice to private garden owners. Our services also include guidance on garden layout, plant selection, seasonal planting strategies, maintenance and sustainable gardening practices.W e also provide a plant sourcing and selection service, if required.

See my Services page for more information.

Question 2

What area do you cover?

Accepted Answer

We are based in Tiverton and cover an area about 30 mins drive from home. This means approximately:

West:  South Molton,  North: Dulverton, East: Taunton and South: Exeter.

If in doubt, please contact us to see if we cover your area?

Question 3

How does a garden consultation work?

Accepted Answer

We will start with an initial free phone chat to discuss your gardening goals and ascertain whether my service would be helpful to you. Once you decide to go ahead we will book a visit to your garden.

A consultation visit will usually last approximately 1-2 hours depending on the size and complexity of your garden requirements. We will take extensive notes, photographs and measurements as required. We will then produce a report with an assessment of your garden identifying areas for change, new planting ideas and an action plan for its implementation.

See the individual service descriptions for example costs.

Question 4

What is the cost of a garden consultation?

Accepted Answer

The cost varies depending on the length of the consultation and the size of your garden.

The initial visit costs £60 for the first hour. Then £40 an hour charged to nearest 15 mins. The subsequent report and planting recommendations will usually cost between £300 to £500 but we should be able to give you a clear indication once we have conducted the initial visit.

Question 5

What is the cost of a garden design?

Accepted Answer

The cost of a garden design is based on multiple factors such as garden size, survey requirements customer brief, etc. See the Service Descriptions for more information. Following the initial consultation we will produce a proposal customised to your needs and expectations along with a price for your garden design.

Question 6

Should I prepare anything for the consultation?

Accepted Answer

It’s helpful if you have a list of your gardening goals and any specific challenges you’re facing. Photos of garden styles you like would also be useful.

Question 7

How long after the consultation will it be before I get my report?

Accepted Answer

It usually takes 2 -3 weeks to bring together all the elements of the plan and return to you to share our conclusions and proposals.

You don’t have to wait for my full report however if you want to get started as we will be able to give you jobs required for preparation, or discuss if you need to get contractors in for tree works or clearance or landscapers for layout changes.

Question 8

Do you offer follow-up services after the consultation?

Accepted Answer

We offer follow-up services to assess the progress of your garden and provide  advice as needed. See Our Services page for more information.

Question 9

How can I schedule a consultation?

Accepted Answer

To schedule a consultation, send us a message or phone us. See our Contact page for more information.

Question 10

How much will a border design cost?

Accepted Answer

A border design catering to your tastes, budget, aspect soil type, etc. will normally cost between £150 and £300, although this can be more for multiple/large borders.

Question 11

What forms of payment do you accept?

Accepted Answer

We currently accept most debit and credit cards, payment via online banking and cash.

Question 12

What are your payment terms?

Accepted Answer

Payment is due when the service has been completed,  i.e. payment for the initial visit is required at the time of the visit. And for other services payments falls due when it has been delivered.

See our Services for more information on what is delivered in each case.

Question 13

What about gardening for the benefit of wildlife?

Accepted Answer

While ecological principles inform everything we do, the creation of gardens that are sanctuaries for wildlife is so crucial that we've dedicated a specific service to it. Embracing a wildlife-friendly approach doesn't mean sacrificing beauty; even the smallest of gardens in a suburban setting can become a buzzing haven for bees, butterflies, and birds under our guidance.

We prioritise the selection of trees, shrubs, and perennials that not only enhance the visual appeal of your garden but also support a rich biodiversity. By integrating small ponds, bird baths, bee hotels, mini meadows, and native hedging, we design spaces that attract and nourish a variety of pollinators and wildlife.

Beyond the aesthetic aspect, we offer natural alternatives for pest and disease management, share knowledge on conserving water, and suggest drought-resistant plantings.

Our extensive expertise allows me to create vibrant and colourful gardens without being limited to native species alone. We focus on selecting plants that are not only attractive to pollinators but also have long flowering periods, extending the garden's appeal and benefit to wildlife throughout the year.

From planting the earliest flowering bulbs for emerging bumblebees, preserving seed heads in winter for birds, to creating leaf piles for hedgehogs, our aim is to craft gardens that are not just beautiful to look at but are also vibrant ecosystems. These gardens are safe for you and your family, offering a sanctuary for wildlife and contributing to a healthier planet.

Question 14

Do you focus on eco-friendly and sustainable gardening?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We advocate for sustainable gardening practices, including the use of plants for pollinators, organic fertilisers and weed control methods, and water-efficient techniques.

We can provide guidance on creating an eco-friendly garden that supports local ecosystems.

Frequently Asked Questions