William Stanley interview
Biography
Great Grandson of Sir Henry Morton Stanley the explorer, William Stanley's passion lies in exploring and creating inspirational and innovative jungles of colour and design in other people’s gardens.
William studied horticulture and arboriculture at Merrist Wood Agricultural College and the Oxford College of Garden Design.
He started working at nurseries in Surrey before moving to London to become part of the team at the Chelsea Gardener and thereafter working for an independent landscaping company.
William set up his own successful landscaping design and garden maintenance service Stanley Landscapes Ltd in 2001 and has worked on a wide range of projects and commissions from country estates to small urban plots, developing a strong database of clients from embassies to restaurants, and a large number of private clients which include Eric Clapton, Sting and the Duchess of Buccleugh.
Now based in the heart of Dorset, William is expanding his business to cover the West Country and likes to spend his free time developing his own inspirational cottage garden.
For more information go to Stanley Landscapes Ltd (www.stanleylandscapesltd.com).
Who has influenced you the most in your gardening and why?
I don't really have a one person or place as an inspiration. I pick up ideas from everyday life and people and am generally influenced by my surroundings and the seasons.
What has been the best moment while working on your garden?
Designing a garden for a client, which fits with their character, the history and architecture of the surroundings and seeing their excitement and happiness when the garden is finished.
What has been the worst moment?
Falling off a ladder into a London basement whilst replanting a 2nd storey window box, and the cement flower box subsequently falling on my head.
Which gardening personality do you most admire?
Gertrude Jeckyll (1843 –1932) who was one of the most respected gardeners of her time, for her appreciation of beauty for both natural and formal styles and who explained the importance of structure, proportion, colour, scent and texture in gardens of almost any scale. Today, Alan Titchmarsh for bringing his passion and inspiration for gardening to the masses.
What is your favourite garden and why?
Stourhead in Dorset designed by Capability Brown because of its amazing arboretum and autumn colour.
What is your favourite garden tip?
Planting marigolds in your greenhouse to prevent whitefly and for a prize carrot, plant it in a drainpipe filled with sand and water from the base of the pipe.
Name your favourite plant
Arbutus unedo – a fantastic evergreen strawberry tree with white bell like flowers and fruit, which can be made into a delicious liqueur.
What is your favourite gardening season and why?
Summer is the most rewarding time for me; the garden is in full bloom and glorious colour, the trees laden with fruit and the heady scent of roses and sweet peas fill your senses. There is nothing more satisfying than eating homegrown new potatoes and juicy sugar snaps.
What is your first gardening memory?
Tending to a little vegetable plot at boarding school.
What is the secret of a successful garden?
An all season garden, which takes you on a journey; divided up into different areas of colour, interest and texture which, provides you with endless inspiration and enjoyment.
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