A passionate plantsman, Neil has been developing his naturalistic style at Knoll Gardens for over 30 years. Along with the renowned specialist nursery he has established a charity, the Knoll Gardens Foundation, which is devoted to achieving a better understanding of the relationship between Knolls naturalistic style, the gardens wildlife and the wider environment.
Previously a Member of RHS Council, Neil was awarded the prestigious Victoria Medal of Honour (VMH), by the RHS in 2024.
He has authored two well respected books on grasses, and having achieved ten consecutive gold medals for the nurseries displays at the Chelsea Flower Show, Neil now devotes his time to the garden, the nursery and the charity.
Presentations are illustrated with his own stunning photography and offer a mix of horticultural information, anecdotes and stories to both educate and amuse. His presentations are delivered with humour and the passion and commitment that make Neil such a highly entertaining speaker.
Presentations are available either in person or online.
Neil currently offers two presentations. To enquire about Neil’s availability please email en*******@*************co.uk or call the nursery on 01202 873931.
Neil’s Keynote Presentation
More ‘wow’ and less work; grasses and their place in our gardens
Beautiful, adaptable and highly successful in nature, grasses have much to offer todays gardens and the built environment. They are easy to use and easy to please. While their ability to adapt makes them especially valuable in todays changing climate.
Learn more about Neil’s specialist subject in this keynote presentation as he explores the use of grasses in our designed spaces. From the naturalistic style of meadows and prairies to rain gardens and alternative lawns, grasses offer environmentally conscious gardeners an enticing mix of nature friendly informal design and easy maintenance.
Combining cultural information with Neil’s personal gardening philosophy, this brings the story of his work and developments at Knoll Gardens right up-to-date.
Also available
Naturalistic and Nature Friendly
In his recent book Neil defines the naturalistic approach as ‘A desire to garden with an informal aesthetic and to take great pleasure in the garden as an ever changing ongoing community that benefits both ourselves and our wider environment. ‘Biodiversity’, ‘low impact’, ‘sustainability’ and ‘resource conscious’, are as important terms for modern gardeners as any other horticultural term has ever been.’
In this presentation Neil takes as a look at his naturalistic approach to garden design and care, and how the wildlife focused work of Knolls associated charity, the Knoll Gardens Foundation’ continues to influence and inform his garden style and thinking.
Lecture Costs
2026/27; £595 – plus expenses if travelling (45p per mile for return journey. Overnight charge £100 where necessary).