Oli Haden in Walworth Garden, south London
Upon a walking tour of Walworth Garden in south London, head gardener Oli Haden explains how the plants and wildlife thrives in wild, sustainable and “jungle-like” conditions.
Inside Walworth Garden, open 7 days a week all year round, there is no artificial grass, where plants are allowed to grow as they please.
Growing amongst rubble, beneath ponds and atop a shed, the plants within the demonstration garden thrive.
Haden explains, “if we can make it pretty and sustainable,” it works.
The gardener also explains how he had to say goodbye to the honey bees, explaining that they became a threat to wild and solitary bees.
Alongside plant centre manager Lee Mathias, the pair also explained that they don’t use any pesticides.
Instead, they allow nature to take its course and choose not to deal with pests using pesticides, “we don’t deal with them,” says Haden.
The natural approach has been proven as successful, while Haden is set to celebrate his 10 year anniversary working at Walworth next year.
The community garden and plant centre is also a horticultural learning centre, accredited by City and Guilds, available up to Diploma level.
Throughout the summer, Walworth Garden has numerous events such as lessons in fermentation, gardening for beginners and sustainable planting.