A small garden area with freshly turned soil where a young tree is planted, surrounded by various plants and flowers, with a wooden fence in the background.

🌻 Planting & Soft Landscaping: The Right Plant in the Right Place

I believe a beautiful garden is more than just plants in the ground; it’s a living, breathing space. It should reflect your personality, bring you joy, and feed the local wildlife.

But in my 20+ years of gardening, I’ve learned that great planting isn't just about picking pretty flowers. It’s about understanding the soil, the light, and the local climate.

At Totnes Gardening, I don't just dig a hole and hope for the best. I create planting schemes that thrive in Totnes soil—whether that’s a drought-tolerant gravel garden or a lush, shade-loving fernery.

🌳 Planting a Legacy (Trees & Shrubs)

As the saying goes, "The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is today." Planting a tree is like planting a legacy. But it has to be the right one.

  • Selection: I carefully select trees and shrubs considering their mature size and root system. I ensure you don't plant a tree today that will block your view or crack your patio ten years from now.

  • Establishment: I focus on the soil preparation and staking, giving your new tree the best possible start to ensure it survives its first winter.

🍅 Vegetable Gardens: The "Good Life"

I get a real kick out of helping people grow their own food. There is honestly nothing like the taste of a homegrown tomato still warm from the sun.

  • Setup: Whether you want raised beds, a no-dig system, or a traditional patch, I can get you set up.

  • Advice: I help with crop rotation and soil nutrition so you get a harvest, not just a patch of empty leaves.

🌷 Seasonal Colour & Pollinators

There is something special about seeing a garden change throughout the year. I plant for "Succession"—meaning as one flower fades, another opens.

  • Spring: Vibrant bulbs to wake the garden up.

  • Summer: Perennials chosen specifically to attract Totnes bees and butterflies.

  • Winter: Structure and evergreens to keep the garden looking smart in the cold.

📍 Why Local Matters

I don't buy plants that have been trucked in from halfway across Europe and aren't used to our weather.

  • Local Sourcing: I source my plants from trusted local nurseries. These plants are acclimatized to the South Devon weather, meaning they are healthier, stronger, and ready to flourish in your garden immediately.

🛡️ Peace of Mind: Responsible Gardening

Even planting creates waste (plastic pots, trays, and compost bags).

  • ♻️ Environment Agency Registered Waste Carrier: I recycle the plastic pots and dispose of any packaging or green waste legally.

  • ✅ Fully Insured: I treat your property with respect.

  • ✅ Registered Company: Totnes Gardening is the trading name of KEVIN IAN HARE LIMITED (Company No. 15593821).

Let’s bring your garden to life.

Whether you’re dreaming of a colourful flower bed, a productive vegetable patch, or a tranquil woodland corner, let’s get the soil right first.

📧 Email: kevin@totnesgardening.co.uk