She also has an RHS qualification in Horticulture, where she was taught by the inspirational (now late) horticulturalist and garden designer Ernie Bingham; and a first class honours degree in humanities from the Open University, as well as a National Diploma in Art and Design and numerous other qualifications. Jane is currently a Friend of the Society of Garden Designers. During her time as a gardener, she has worked entirely organically, so whilst not all her clients garden organically themselves, she can design with sustainability in mind. For me, sustainable garden design means choosing plants that are appropriate to the conditions in your garden, so that your garden will thrive; designing with your present and future needs as paramount, so that the garden will stand the test of time; where possible choosing local materials and locally grown plants, and designing in places for wildlife, such as bee-friendly nectar rich plants and berries for birds. I would also, where possible, choose varieties and cultivars that have some disease resistance, so reducing the need for chemicals. We no longer see nature as something to be controlled and dominated, but realise that beautiful gardens can be created in tandem with nature.â€
