Considered planting for gardens that last.

Close-up of a small red and black fuzzy caterpillar on a green grass stem in a lush grassy field.

I'm an RHS-qualified horticulturist working across Guildford and the surrounding Surrey countryside.

My approach is unhurried and methodical. Soil analysis first, selection second, implementation third. The result is a garden designed not just to look beautiful, but to belong exactly where it is.

Grounded in principle

Dragonfly illustration for Robert Avenell, designed by madebycross.com

Right plant, right place

I begin with your soil, not your wish list. By understanding pH, quality and microclimate, I select species that will naturally flourish, not just survive, for years to come.

Biodiversity

Every garden I create works to core ecological principles. Organic composts and fertilisers enrich the soil, inviting wildlife back in and keeping it there.

Bespoke aftercare

Plants are sourced directly from trade suppliers, passing on real savings to you. Once planting is complete, my work continues with dedicated aftercare to help your garden thrive.

A man with gray hair and glasses smiling while holding a glass art piece that resembles a fish.

As the ‘Best Wildlife Garden’ and ‘Overall Competition’ winner at Guildford in Bloom 2025 my work celebrates biodiversity and horticultural excellence.


I design wildlife-friendly gardens that balance natural habitats with functional, relaxing spaces for people. By creating a series of outdoor "rooms" – closely spaced habitat patches that act as stepping-stone corridors – I ensure animals can rest and feed as they travel.

Additionally, I utilise structures as natural frameworks for vertical gardening, transforming even shaded seating areas into thriving, pollinator-friendly sanctuaries.

Good gardens aren't rushed. My process moves through three carefully considered stages.


Initial visit

A relaxed conversation in your garden to explore what's possible.

Horticultural consultation

Soil analysis, species identification, and the scientific foundations of your planting scheme.

Implementation

A bespoke planting plan, sourced from trade suppliers and planted with care, with dedicated aftercare to follow.

Recent work