Gravetye’s Head Gardener Tom Coward will share his experiences overseeing the restoration and development of one of England’s most renowned and influential gardens. Gravetye was originally created by William Robinson, author of the landmark book, The Wild Garden, and one of the most significant gardeners of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Tom will discuss Robinson’s life and profound legacy, as well as the plants and methods involved in managing this historic garden in the modern world.

Speaker’s bio:

Tom Coward started his career as a teenager at a fruit tree nursery where he fell in love with growing plants. He then worked and studied at RHS Wisely, Pershore College and Kew Gardens, after which he worked in the nursery industry in Oregon and growing vegetables for a hotel in New Zealand. Prior to joining Gravetye in 2010, he was assistant gardener to Fergus Garret at Great Dixter, an experience which had a profound influence on his gardening.