Show Notes
www.katehenningplantingdesign.co.uk My background I was awarded full Membership of the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists in 1994 and worked in private practice for 15 years on projects including railway station refurbishments for London Underground and the construction of properties in London and the Home Counties for prestigious house builders and private clients. In 2008 I took a career break and for a couple of years was a Foster Carer and had a great time introducing children to gardening, especially growing edibles. I was amazed to discover that some children are completely unaware of where and how fruit and vegetables grow. In 2014 I started my own garden maintenance business which was very successful and then decided to use my design and drawing skills from my days in architecture and train to become a garden designer. After much consideration I studied for a Diploma in Planting Design with the London College of Garden Design at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. I loved every moment and was awarded the Diploma with Distinction. I then went on to take their Certificate in Plantsmanship, and passed with Distinction. In 2026 I exhibited a show garden in the Balcony & Container Garden section of the RHS Chelsea Flower Show in collaboration with my friend and fellow designer Susie Kennedy. The garden was called 'Tales from the Riverbank' and was our first dive into the deep waters of show gardens. We were awarded a Gold Medal. My Planting Design Studio is the result of all my knowledge of construction, planting design, botany and technical drawing, converging to create something really special to me. I love every minute of what I do and consider it a pleasure and a privilege to create beautiful gardens and outdoor spaces. I am a Member of the Chartered Institute of Horticulture and I have an allotment where I love to spend stolen moments and grow for pure pleasure. I look forward to meeting you. Kate
More from The Premier Garden Show
This episode is brought to you by ECHO Tools www.echotools.ie for more info John B. Smith (often referenced simply as John Smith) is a prominent Irish garden designer, horticulturist, and head gardener. He is widely recognized for his leadership role at one of Ireland's most prestigious public horticultural sites and his regular appearances in Irish gardening mediaSmith has over 30 years of experience in the professional gardening and landscaping sector. [1] Early Career: He began gardening at a young age with his father before completing a golf course apprenticeship. He spent 10 years working at Swords Golf Course in North County Dublin. [1] Landscaping & Consultancy: He expanded his commercial experience at SAP Landscapes managing crews, and later served as a consultant for Westmeath County Council at the historic Belvedere House and Gardens around 2009. [1] Current Position: He serves as the Head Gardener at the Irish National Stud & Japanese Gardens in County Kildare. In this role, he manages the historic, highly intricate living collections and frequently hosts public masterclasses on seasonal garden design, container planting, and vegetable cultivation. [1, 2] The Premier Garden Show: He is featured as a keynote guest on the October 2026 episodes of The Premier Garden Show, discussing his lifelong gardening journey and design philosophies. [1] Master My Garden Podcast: He has broken down his approach to balancing historical preservation with modern landscape techniques on popular broadcasts like the Master My Garden Podcast. [1] Media & Public AppearancesAs a respected figure in the Irish horticultural community, Smith frequently shares his journey and expert advice across various media platforms:
This episode is brought to you by ECHO Tools www.echotools.ie for more info John B. Smith (often referenced simply as John Smith) is a prominent Irish garden designer, horticulturist, and head gardener. He is widely recognized for his leadership role at one of Ireland's most prestigious public horticultural sites and his regular appearances in Irish gardening mediaSmith has over 30 years of experience in the professional gardening and landscaping sector. [1] Early Career: He began gardening at a young age with his father before completing a golf course apprenticeship. He spent 10 years working at Swords Golf Course in North County Dublin. [1] Landscaping & Consultancy: He expanded his commercial experience at SAP Landscapes managing crews, and later served as a consultant for Westmeath County Council at the historic Belvedere House and Gardens around 2009. [1] Current Position: He serves as the Head Gardener at the Irish National Stud & Japanese Gardens in County Kildare. In this role, he manages the historic, highly intricate living collections and frequently hosts public masterclasses on seasonal garden design, container planting, and vegetable cultivation. [1, 2] The Premier Garden Show: He is featured as a keynote guest on the October 2026 episodes of The Premier Garden Show, discussing his lifelong gardening journey and design philosophies. [1] Master My Garden Podcast: He has broken down his approach to balancing historical preservation with modern landscape techniques on popular broadcasts like the Master My Garden Podcast. [1] Media & Public AppearancesAs a respected figure in the Irish horticultural community, Smith frequently shares his journey and expert advice across various media platforms:
Next I talk with John B Smith garden designer and horticulturist as he tells us his gardening journey
This episode is brought to you by ECHO Tools go to www.echotools.ie or ww.echo-tools.co.uk for more info on all there products On tonight's podcast I am joined by LauraThe Lady Landscaping Guide (run by Laura, co-owner of Alder Garden Services Ltd) is a UK-based garden design, makeover consultation, and contractor platform centered in Warrington Laura is a garden designer, skilled contractor, and author/creator behind The Lady Landscaping Guide. She runs Alder Garden Services Ltd alongside her husband, Martin
This episode is brought to you by ECHO Tools go to www.echotools.ie or ww.echo-tools.co.uk for more info on all there products On tonight's podcast I am joined by LauraThe Lady Landscaping Guide (run by Laura, co-owner of Alder Garden Services Ltd) is a UK-based garden design, makeover consultation, and contractor platform centered in Warrington Laura is a garden designer, skilled contractor, and author/creator behind The Lady Landscaping Guide. She runs Alder Garden Services Ltd alongside her husband, Martin