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

June Update: Feeling hopeful in Totnes! It has been an incredibly busy couple of weeks here at TotnesGardening.co.uk. With the record-breaking heat we've been experiencing across Devon lately, my schedule has been packed with new planting, regular maintenance, and—most importantly right now—laying down a whole lot of decorative bark to help retain vital soil moisture (you can read more about my bark treatments here). (View the latest updates from the garden on our Facebook page)

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

Website: www.totnesgardening.co.uk