On Wednesday Tuesday 22nd June, renowned horticulturalist and RHS judge Jim Buttress visited Millbrook Village to give an expert talk and judge a resident gardening competition.
Jim discussed how to design and maintain a patio or balcony garden and gave his top tips for creating beautiful containers and hanging baskets. He also talked about his experiences as a leading horticulturist and offered residents the opportunity to ask him their gardening questions.
Jim also judged residents’ patios and balconies, with resident Shirley Claudette Devereux being awarded first place for her balcony display.
Jim Buttress began his gardening career at RHS Wisley, where he trained before going on to manage numerous London parks and gardens including Hyde Park, St James’ Park, Clarence House, Buckingham Palace and Greenwich Park, and enjoyed tea with the Queen Mother. Jim has appeared on gardening television shows including the BBC’s The Big Allotment Challenge and is a regular radio presenter and guest. This summer, Jim is judging RHS Britain in Bloom entries across the country.
Rachel Tottle, Village Manager at Millbrook, commented: “It was lovely to welcome Jim to the village. Many of our residents are green-fingered and enjoy gardening on a smaller scale here, having downsized from homes with large unmanageable gardens. Lockdown has really demonstrated just how relaxing gardening can be and the benefits it has on both our mental and physical wellbeing. We were all left inspired by Jim’s expertise and passion.”
Jim Buttress commented: “It was great to visit Millbrook and also judge the residents’ gardens. There are some very talented gardeners at the village and it was great to see the variety of gardens and how residents have made the most of their patio or balcony space.
“Container gardening is easy and fun to do and is much more manageable than maintaining a large garden. I can see how the homes at Millbrook are perfect for those downsizing and looking to continue their love of gardening in retirement but on a smaller scale.”
Millbrook offers over-65s the chance to enjoy an active and sociable retirement in a welcoming, secure community, with the Devon coast and countryside on their doorstep. The village is home to a host of state-of-the-art facilities, including a relaxation pool, gym, cinema, and restaurant.