How I got into horticulture
How I Got Into Horticulture: A Journey That Led to Neo Flora
My journey into horticulture began with something small—a simple succulent gifted to me by my university flatmates. Little did I know, that one plant would be the spark that ignited my deep connection with the world of plants and the many ways they can enrich our lives.
The Start of My Passion
As a student, I found myself intrigued by houseplants. There was something about nurturing a living thing, watching it grow and thrive, that felt deeply satisfying. That initial love for plants soon evolved into a passion, and after graduating, I started by working at Walberton Nursery in West Sussex, where I gained hands-on experience in plant care and learned about the commercial side of the horticulture industry.
However, my journey didn’t stop there. I wanted to learn more about how plants intersected with the broader world of gardening and design.
My Role at the Young People in Horticulture Association (YPHA)
Alongside my professional career, I’ve always been passionate about giving back to the community, particularly to other young people in the horticultural field. For the past two years, I’ve volunteered as the Social Media Manager for the Young People in Horticulture Association (YPHA), a role that has allowed me to connect with like-minded individuals and support the growth of young professionals in the industry.
It was through my involvement with YPHA that I met John, an experienced show garden builder with award-winning exhibits at Malvern and Chelsea. John has been instrumental in helping me develop my own design ideas, and his expertise has been invaluable in bringing my vision for Neo Flora to life.
The Creation of Neo Flora: A Garden Designed for Mental Health
As my knowledge of plants and horticulture grew, I began to think more deeply about how plants can be used to positively impact people’s lives, especially when it comes to mental well-being. This is where Neo Flora was born. Set to debut at the RHS Malvern Spring Festival in 2025, Neo Flora is an indoor plant garden designed to highlight the mental health benefits of houseplants.
Neo Flora features a unique concept: a teenager’s bedroom filled with greenery, neon lighting, and urban aesthetics. The garden aims to explore how caring for plants can help manage stress, anxiety, and depression — issues that affect so many young people today. Through this exhibit, I hope to show that houseplants are not just decorative items — they are therapeutic tools that can offer comfort, routine, and a sense of control in an increasingly digital world.
