Beginning as a home grown collection of subtropical half-hardy plants in 2012, my garden hobby has led me on a journey to establish Exotic Earth Plants in 2018. Influenced primarily from several visits to the Isles of Scilly and many gardens in the south-west of the UK, my collection certainly reflects the subtropical plants which can be grown in the UK with minimal winter protection. Located in the mild climate of south Devon, I hold a private collection of Brugmansia which I make available to customers throughout the year online and at fairs and am an active member of Brugmansia Growers International. I am a member of Plant Heritage Devon Group and have protected several plants under the Plant Heritage Plant Guardian scheme I have ambitions to work towards establishing a National Plant Collection of Brugmansia, through Plant Heritage, and would eventually like to setup a larger dedicated specialist nursery open to the public.

 

As a sole trader it has been hard work setting up the micro-business to its current status and customers should be aware this is not my primary job, although my other job is plant related (Plant Records Manager for the National Trust!)  and I am only available evenings and weekends to respond to queries and process orders. My back garden nursery has allowed me to continue along my horticultural pathway and discover new fascinating species to grow, and for that I am truly thankful.

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In February 2021 I had a feature article in Gardens Illustrated magazine titled ' How to start a Micro Nursery'. See the photo below for the article.

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In September 2021 I was asked by RHS to display an old market cart in the Italianate market style area in the Great Pavilion at Chelsea Flower Show. This display was non judged, as were all of the other carts which were showcasing plants from other specialist nurseries, and it was a privilege to showcase and display my plants at Chelsea Flower Show 2021.

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I am constantly searching for new and wonderful Brugmansia to add to the collection and find additional rare or unusual subtropical plants which can be grown in the UK constantly. The majority of the plants I grow originate from South America but some are from other parts of the world including South Africa, Macronesia, Australasia and Asia.

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I grow a selection of subtropical plants suitable for the UK including Musa, Solanum, Colocasia, Justicia, Abutilon, Iochroma, Echium  and more.

 

Please visit me at a plant fair or support me by purchasing something online and give your garden an exotic centerpiece this year from a passionate horticultural specialist!