PROFESSIONAL WOMEN GARDENERS IN KENT
KENTWOMENINBUSINESS
KENT WOMEN IN BUSINESS :
RUTH BOLAM
RUTH BOLAM IS THE COMMERCIAL & OPERATIONS DIRECTOR OF ENGLISH COUNTRY GARDENERS , A LEADING AGENCY FOR THE RECRUITMENT OF PERMANENT PROFESSIONAL GARDENERS . HAVING SUCCESSFULLY PLACED NUMEROUS SKILLED PROFESSIONALS IN PRIVATE ESTATES , CORPORATE ESTABLISHMENTS AND CHARITABLE ORGANISATIONS OVER THE PAST 34 YEARS , RUTH DISCUSSES THE IMPORTANCE OF WOMEN IN THE HORTICULTURE SECTOR .
For the first time in history , the RHS Chelsea Flower show in 2023 featured more female designers vying for medals than their male counterparts . Prior to the late 19th century , the field of professional gardening was exclusively male-dominated . However , the opening up of establishments such as Kew Gardens to women trainees in 1901 marked a turning point , paving the way for women to consider horticulture as a viable career path .
Over the past few years , Ruth has witnessed firsthand a significant increase in the number of women securing positions within the field . As a female leader , Ruth is committed to fostering equal opportunities for women within the professional gardening and horticulture sector .
It has been proven that working within horticulture and being among nature is shown to improve both physical and mental
“ Throughout history , women have played a significant role in advancing the field of horticulture . Dating back to the 1700s , wealthy women were able to explore their ‘ hobby ’ for gardening , often travelling to collect plant specimens and contributing to research . Despite progress , there is still a need to promote the accessibility and available opportunities in the industry . As the horticulture sector continues to grow with more focus on sustainability , merging science with nature , I believe there are further opportunities for women to get involved and shape the sector .” health . Along with the need to create a better work-life balance , and with a diverse range of roles and flexibility offered , the industry is continuing to strive towards greater diversity and equality .
English Country Gardeners is based near Tenterden and has been successfully facilitating partnerships between households and gardeners for 34 years . Their knowledge and experience enable them to work closely with clients to define their garden and grounds requirements . Whether there is a need for maintenance , garden restoration work or new designed areas collaborating with garden designers or subcontractors , English Country Gardeners dedicate their service to find talented and bespoke gardeners who are experienced horticulturists , while proficient in managing resources , teams and budgets .
For further information please visit : englishcountrygardeners . co . uk
Photo credit : Jodie Donovan Photography ; image taken at Eastwell Manor , Ashford .
RUTH BOLAM
PROFESSIONAL WOMEN GARDENERS IN KENT
PENELOPE HOBHOUSE , WALMER CASTLE |
HELEN APPLEGARTH , CANTERBURY |
DONNA RICHARDSON , ENCHANTED GARDENS , WHITSTABLE |
JACQUELINE AVIOLET , ROSIE ’ S GARDEN PLANTS , AYLESFORD |
Penelope is a renowned garden historian with her books bringing historic gardens into the public ’ s imagination . She created the garden at Walmer Castle , Kent , in 1997 to commemorate the 95th birthday of the then Lord Warden , Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother . |
Helen is a garden designer in Canterbury and East Kent who playfully co-creates spaces to enhance a connection with nature . Head to Cafe Du Soleil or Cafe Des Amis in Canterbury to admire Helens plantings , allowing you to dine and enjoy the seasonal flowers such as tulips and lavender . |
Having designed and maintained various types of gardens , Donna now teaches from Enchanted Gardens and offers various short courses in pollinator-friendly gardening .
www . enchantedgardenskent . co . uk
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Jacqueline has been a horticulture speaker for decades and discusses a range of topics . She will be attending the Kent Garden Show from 25 - 27 May to answer your gardening questions .
www . kentgardenshow . com
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www . insidekent . co . uk • 73 |