Our new course at Beth Chatto Gardens, "Plantsmanship by design" is for plant lovers seeking to deepen their horticultural expertise, this course brings the gap between botany and planting design. By exploring the science of the plant world - from anatomy to ecology - students will discover how a fundamental understanding of plant biology directly informs more resilient and aesthetically successful designs.
Central to this journey is the study of Beth Chatto's pioneering "right plant, right place" ethos, which prioritises matching species to their natural habitats to ensure they thrive. Applying these principles, students will undertake two practical planting designs, translating their newfound botanical knowledge into functional, sustainable schemes that work in harmony with the environment. The course starts in September 2026 will be taught over 30 weeks (school term times) every Tuesday from 10am - 3pm