Ian’s career path in horticulture was shaped by the National Trust. Originally a project manager at Apple, Ian discovered his passion for horticulture as a volunteer in the formal gardens at Ham House in Richmond. This led to a transformative internship at the lush gardens of Nymans in West Sussex. These experiences earned him a place in the Heritage and Botanic Garden Trainee Program with the National Trust at Cliveden in Buckinghamshire.
After completing his training, Ian spent five years at RHS Garden Wisley, working within the Piet Oudolf designed landscapes. From 2023 to 2024, he played a key role in developing the new two‑acre Oudolf Landscape, a project that deepened his expertise in naturalistic, prairie‑style planting.
In January 2025, Ian and his family relocated from Surrey to South Devon, where he became Head Gardener at Overbeck’s Garden in Salcombe. Over his first year, he has immersed himself in the inspiring palette of subtropical plants that flourish in the garden’s uniquely mild microclimate.
Ian will talk about his career in horticulture but will focus to a great extent on his role in the realisation of the Oudolf Landscape at Wisley.