After months of planning, designing and growing, all the hard work paid off, as the Burncoose Nurseries team received the news they have been awarded a gold medal for their garden at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show.

Designed by Christine Alford and Louisa Lazarowicz, with support from Molly Jackson, The Burncoose Nurseries garden, ‘Trees of the Future’, which is sponsored by Prince’s Trust supporter, Hand Picked Hotels, showcases non-native species that will thrive in our changing climate, whilst also helping to combat it.   

Inspired by the research of leading experts, such as Tony Kirkham, previous head of arboretum at Kew, this collection has been brought together for its qualities of being non-invasive, disease resistant and good hosts to wildlife.  

Charles Williams, owner of Burncoose Nurseries said: “The team have worked extremely hard to create a topical and inspirational garden. I’m delighted the team’s efforts have been recognised with a gold medal.  

“I’d like to thank them all for their efforts in bringing the garden to life and I’d also like to thank Hand Picked Hotels for their support of Burncoose Nurseries at RHS Chelsea Flower Show.” 

This year’s Prince’s Trust ambassador, Dame Joanna Lumley, visited the Burncoose stand, she said: “Understanding and supporting our environment has never been more important. This garden, with its focus on wildlife and water conservation, paired with promoting trees and shrubs that thrive in dry conditions and help combat climate change, is wonderful. 

“For many of us, our gardens are personal sanctuaries. I love the idea of using those sanctuaries to do our bit to support the environment as well as being a haven for relaxation.”  

Julia Hands, chairman and CEO of Hand Picked Hotels added: “Once again the Burncoose Nurseries show team have created a beautiful garden, worthy of its gold medal. 

“The stand this year goes beyond showcasing world class garden design. This year, as more of us seek to find ways to protect nature and consider sustainability and water conservation, the Burncoose garden provides practical ideas and introduces us to exciting non-native trees and shrubs. We can all take inspiration from this garden and use the ideas in our own gardens.”