Interview with Owen Griffiths

Owen, who received his training at Kew, brings a diverse range of experience in social and therapeutic horticulture. He is particularly enthusiastic about forest gardening and its potential to combat climate change.

During our conversation, Owen will share insights about Horatio’s Garden, discuss his own career journey, and provide valuable tips for spring gardening—covering everything from planting techniques to the best plants to choose, ensuring your garden flourishes this April!

About You & The Garden

Can you tell us a little bit more about Horatio’s Garden and what it represents?

Horatio’s Garden is a national charity which creates and nurtures beautiful, fully accessible gardens in NHS spinal injury centres. Each garden is a stunning sanctuary and a source of vital support for people, their families and friends and NHS staff. Our garden is a haven of soft colour - with grasses swaying in the breeze and the scent of roses and sweetpeas under an open canopy. In addition to the tranquility of the garden, we offer gardening workshops, a thriving arts programme, and live music, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Could you share a bit about yourself and how your journey with Horatio's Garden began?

Gardening has always been a passion of mine, and I’ve had the privilege of working in a range of horticultural settings. When I first discovered Horatio’s Garden, I was deeply moved by Horatio Chapple and his family. As Head Gardener for our garden in Wales, it’s been inspiring to witness how the garden provides comfort and a sense of calm, helping to bring people together during one of the most challenging times in their lives.

What aspects of gardening do you find most rewarding?

The most rewarding aspect of gardening is acknowledging the profound impact it can have on people. I often see patients, visitors, and staff come outside, their expressions softening as they take a moment to appreciate the colours, textures, and scents surrounding them. It’s a privilege to nurture a garden that brings such comfort and joy to others.

Spring Gardening

How do you prepare for Spring Gardening? 

The preparation begins in late winter as we cut back perennials, dig up and divide herbaceous plants and move plants around to adjust the bed layout. We also apply mulch to suppress weeds and help retain moisture in the soil. Pruning trees and shrubs is also crucial at this time of year while they’re still dormant. For example, we’ve been selectively thinning out some trees and lifting their canopies to create more light and clearer viewing points across the garden.

What would you recommend planting this time of year, and why?

Sweetpeas are a perfect addition for early spring planting because they thrive in cooler temperatures and can be sown directly into the soil. They add vertical interest ideal for trellises or teepees, and their blooms have a delightful scent, bringing colour and charm to the garden throughout the summer.

What are your top tips for planting in Spring?

Water wisely – early morning is best when plants are starting to photosynthesise. Always check the soil before watering, especially in pots - if it’s still moist, hold off to prevent waterlogging. 

Layering is key – consider height, texture, and seasonality when designing your garden to create a dynamic and full appearance 

Give plants space – it’s tempting to overcrowd young plants but be patient and give them space to flourish. They’ll establish better with room to grow

Garden Advice & Design

What advice would you give to a gardener starting out?

Start small and build from there. Gardening can feel overwhelming at first, so focus on a few key plants or areas and expand as you learn. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes; every gardener learns by trial and error. Most importantly, enjoy the process! Gardening is as much about the journey as it is about the end results.

How do you make the most of your garden – giving it a fresh look each season?

I recommend introducing bulbs for spring, annuals for summer, and structural elements like grasses and evergreens for autumn and winter interest. You can also experiment with pots and containers, which can be easily refreshed throughout the year. These additions can keep the garden vibrant and ever-changing, full of interest as the seasons shift.

You have some new Zinc Planters coming your way – what’s your plan for the Zincs?

The containers will be positioned along the back wall of our greenhouse, where they’ll create a striking display. We’re going to plant half-hardy climbers like bluebell creeper (Sollya heterophylla) for vibrant summer colour. To complement the silvery tones of the containers, we’ll incorporate lavender and artemisia, and let Mexican fleabane (Erigeron karvinskianus) spill over the edges, blending seamlessly with the surrounding garden.

What are your top tips for maintaining a healthy garden?

Feed the soil – healthy soil is the foundation for healthy plants. Add organic matter to improve structure and fertility.

Choose the right plants for the right place – this reduces maintenance and helps plants thrive.

Encourage biodiversity – a variety of plants attracts beneficial insects and helps maintain a natural balance.

Observe and adapt – spend time in the garden, take note of what’s working and what isn’t, and make adjustments accordingly at the best time of year.