What's your favourite plant and why?

I adore Coleus because they are so colourful, easy to grow and fun to propagate. Although I love flowers, foliage is more valuable in a garden. Coleuses are kaleidoscopic with leaves in every shade of green, yellow, orange and more. 
 
What inspired you to start gardening?

My parents and grandparents. They didn't push me towards gardening at all, but when they could see I was interested in plants and flowers, they gently nurtured my enthusiasm and let me find my own way.
 
Describe your dream garden. How does it look?

Pretty much any of the Cornish gardens would be the dream. The essential ingredients for me would be a view of the sea, a mild climate for all of my exotic plants, running water, tree ferns, magnolias and lots of trees.
 
What is your number one gardening tip everyone should know?

Gardening is not, and never should be, a competitive sport. Do what you want, grow what you like and don't be unduly influenced by anyone else.