What's your favourite plant and why?

In the spring, I'm especially fond of tulips (Princess Irene and Angelique are favourites). In summer, it's fragrant roses. When autumn arrives, it's the fabulous colours of Japanese maples, and I love the winter-flowering cherries and Ice N Roses hellebores. 

What inspired you to start gardening?

My grandad encouraged me to grow strawberries with him. I was 8 and I still remember the moment when I ate my first homegrown, sun-warmed strawberry. I've been hooked on gardening ever since; it's simply magical!

Describe your dream garden. How does it look?

It would be a walled garden, with the walls covered in trained fruit trees, walkways leading to arbours framed with scented jasmine and honeysuckles, rills of water, a kitchen garden edged with lavender and a cutting garden with riotous colour. 
 
What is your number one gardening tip everyone should know?

My top tip is to have fun. Try growing something new every year. Most times, your adventures will flourish, and you'll be thrilled. Occasionally, they won't, but good on you; you had a go. It's all part of the joy of gardening!