Exotic Garden, Surrey

Originally from Latvia, Janis moved to various corners of the globe before settling down in leafy Surrey with his partner. Having always had a keen interest in gardening, and now living a stone's throw from Wisley, this provided the perfect opportunity to fulfil his dream of changing career and he soon started training at the RHS garden. Janis' love for plants shines through his own garden which was created in 2021, ahead of major renovations to the house. Trees were cleared and the lawn area was transformed into large borders planted for year-round interest. Meandering paths snake through the space towards the end of the garden where the planting includes many shade tolerant plants such as Hakonechloa macra and Hydrangeas. By the house, exotics take centre stage in late summer. Cannas glow in the early morning sunshine and dahlias such 'Twynings Smarties' and half-hardy Savias are combined with many annuals grown from seeds including Cleomes and Rudbeckias to create a vibrant palette. Structure is provided by a sculptural monkey puzzle tree underplanted with Persicaria, contrasting in colour with the foliage of dahlia 'Twynings After Eight' and in texture with the soft plumes of Panicum. Various succulents are planted in pots and dotted around the garden.