Gardens Direct was formed by Alexander C Brothers to offer a creative, competitive and high quality garden design and landscaping service operating throughout Hertfordshire, Essex and the North London area. Alexander is well rooted in the gardening industry considering he grew up at his parent's garden center "Roots & Shoots", in Upminster, Essex. He spent his teenage years helping his father in the purchase and retailing of the garden center's huge range of plants. It was then that he developed his diverse knowledge of latin plant names along with their garden suitability. He also managed the water garden department, selling ornamental pond fish and related products. While working at the garden center, Alexander attended Writtle (Chelmsford) Horticultural College and for a year studied Garden Design. The course taught him just how important the design process is to achieving a successful garden scheme. Hence, Alexander will always encourage his customers to invest in a detailed plan before any garden work. The completion of the course qualified Alexander with a National Diploma in Garden Design with distinction.