An Introduction To Worthy Plants
By Philip Jeffs – Proprietor
I grew up with plants, working for my father who was himself a plantsman, and I developed a wide range of skills over the years. Growing up in the countryside, with plants and wildlife all around me, I acquired a very good understanding of tree, plant and habitat combinations, and the necessary resources required to support the myriad forms of wildlife therein.
For the last six years I have worked as a garden designer and horticultural consultant, specialising in choosing the right plants, trees, shrubs and perennials, for any given situation. I also advise on meadow and grassland management, and pond construction and ecology. I lecture on plants and gardening for wildlife, woodlands, and pond design and construction, and write articles for reference about many aspects of horticulture. I provide a consultancy service, and can be engaged to provide guidance and instruction at any specific location.
British wildlife in all its forms is a particular interest of mine, and I regularly lead dawn chorus walks in parts of Hampshire, as well as other natural history linked events for clubs and organisations. I am keen to promote the use of native trees and shrubs, especially for hedging, so that we support our wildlife as much as we can by the provision of suitable habitat.
At Worthy Plants, my aim is to provide people with good quality trees and plants, and match that aim with proper advice. To that end, people are urged to seek guidance on any aspect of the garden, and I am at the garden centre most of the time to answer any questions.
To add to the ornamental trees, fruit trees, shrubs, perennials, and grasses stocked throughout the year at Worthy Plants, there is also seasonal bedding, and a variety of sundries. A range of composts is displayed, with the aim towards a peat free range, in keeping with the conservation ethos. Plant displays will change periodically, to ensure a fresh and inviting look to the garden centre, and two ‘display’ gardens will promote planting styles for specific conditions. The plant selection reflects the local requirements with regard to soil type, but a wide range of trees and shrubs is displayed, with many interesting and unusual plants to tempt the discerning gardener.
