About David
Where it all started…
David started gardening as a child and has been growing plants for more than 50 years. He has worked in gardens and nurseries, growing on a range of different soils and in different regions of the UK. His extensive knowledge and practical experience of plants, crops and growing techniques is based on a thorough botanical and scientific training, complemented by an in-depth understanding of garden design, wildlife, geology and climatology.
He has travelled to every continent, with the exception of Antarctica, to discover plants and gardens, both independently and on more than 70 trips accompanying groups of gardeners. This has allowed him to see plants growing in their natural habitats, as well as in a range of climates.
Sharing a passion for gardening
As a trained teacher, David has taught a huge diversity of subjects from botany, soil science and plant identification, to propagation, garden design and crop production, and from City & Guilds through to Degree level. He is also a popular speaker with local gardening groups and presents a range of courses and masterclasses at locations around the UK.
And he has spent more than 20 years writing for and editing the nation’s crop of garden magazines and websites, most recently as Deputy and then Associate Editor for BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine. David has appeared on TV and radio, both as a regular contributor and an expert commentator, as well as on gardeners world.com in many practical videos. Most recently he has been designing and presenting a wide range of on-line Masterclasses for the magazine and other clients.
Gardens for gardeners
David has designed, built and planted show gardens and display stands at most of the major garden shows in the UK, including the world-famous Chelsea Flower Show, and is now a Show Judge for the Royal Horticultural Society. In addition he has designed a diverse range of gardens, consulting and advising on real gardens to suit the needs and lifestyles of domestic gardeners.
In addition he is an RHS Tender Plant Committee member, assessing and evaluating the suitability and performance of plants for garden. David is a popular figure in the horticultural world, well liked and respected for his knowledge by nurserymen, professional gardeners, journalists and the gardening public.
Professional experience and services offered
Discover ways in which David can help you to become a better gardener, or for your business to connect with a wider gardening audience. His unique blend of skills allow him to communicate the passion he has for plants and growing in an accessible, engaging and entertaining way.
“David applies his deep grasp of his subject with wisdom and creativity. It is always an enormous pleasure and privilege to work with him.”
“This man has some of the best knowledge and expertise in the business. He has so many strings to his bow.”
“David is a brilliant teacher – he even managed to make the subject of ‘protected structures’ fascinating, when I studied for my RHS Diploma in Horticulture.”