As a gardener for the Community Grow project at RHS Garden Bridgewater, Faye wants everyone to get involved in growing something. Portrait Jason Ingram
Your career inspiration My mum. She was an amazing gardener and when she passed in 2009 I found solace in
looking after the houseplants I’d inherited. I know she would be so proud of what I’ve achieved and how far I have come… I’m also holding her responsible for the houseplant addiction I now have.
Your journey to horticulture Before I started working for the RHS, I worked for a Local Authority for 13 years, covering Housing Advice and Homeless Prevention, with the last three years working with entrenched rough sleepers. While studying my RHS Level 2, I would encourage my accommodated clients to grow veg for their health and wellbeing. I began volunteering at Bridgewater in 2018 to gain more experience and finally took the leap of faith in 2020, securing a temporary position. I knew the site very well, having grown up only a mile away, and instantly knew I had made the right decision, especially when I gained my permanent position earlier this year.
Horticultural heroes Carol Klein: not just because this northern lass grew up down the road from me but because she made horticulture feel accessible to all. They say never meet your heroes but I’m very pleased I met mine; she is as lovely and down to earth in person as on screen.
Favourite landscapes I love natural landscapes and planting for nature. I love derelict areas that are rewilding themselves, showing the resilience of nature, the want and need to survive and even thrive no matter the conditions.
Favourite weed I wouldn’t say horsetail (Equisetum arvense) is my favourite weed but I’ve learned to tolerate it as I’m plagued by it at my allotment. It does have its uses though: bundles can be used for rubbing down and cleaning your tools and in a plant tonic it can preventing blackspot. Horsetail extract is also supposed to be good for healing wounds, bone health and strengthening hair and nails.
What principles have guided your attitude to gardening Gardening and horticulture really is for everyone. It doesn’t matter where you live, what your background is – mansion or high-rise flat; if there is access to a light source then you can grow something there.
One thing to make your garden more sustainable Mulch! Mulch! Mulch! It’s been said before but healthy soil starts a healthy eco system that helps plants be more resilient, meaning less feeding, watering and weeding.
Gardening career aims At this point in my life I would say I have gained the career I set out to achieve. It hasn’t been an easy road to get here – working, studying and volunteering while having two small children at home – but perseverance, a lot of hard work and amazing support from my husband, friends and family has got me here. Seeing how happy the community groups are when they see what they have grown, cooked and tasted – these are the little things that make this my dream job.
You can visit the award-winning Community Grow garden at RHS Bridgewater