ABOUT EDMUND
Edmund is a horticulturist and garden designer based in Faversham, Kent. His work is driven by a deep-rooted love of plants, landscape and the natural world, and a belief that gardens have the power to enrich our lives – offering places of beauty, refuge and connection.
His approach brings together a passion for nature, an interest in people and place, and an appreciation of the restorative qualities of gardens. These influences are rooted in his own experiences, as well as his professional journey into horticulture and garden design.
A lifelong connection with nature
Edmund's connection with the natural world began in childhood. Moving to rural Kent opened up a world of exploration and adventure, where the surrounding countryside offered endless opportunities for discovery. That sense of curiosity and wonder has stayed with him, shaping his appreciation of the outdoors and his approach to garden design.
With a degree in Archaeology and a master's in Anthropology, Edmund brings a distinctive perspective to his work. His academic background has given him an appreciation of landscape, history and the enduring relationship between people and place. These influences inform the creation of gardens that feel grounded in their setting, harmonious in character and rich in opportunities for discovery. Creativity and joy are equally important, ensuring each garden feels personal, uplifting and full of life.
After a career in the charity sector, Edmund's growing desire to work more closely with nature led him to pursue a new direction. A Diploma in Garden Design and subsequent RHS qualification in horticulture led to the establishment of Edmund Jackson Garden Design, bringing together his creative interests, horticultural knowledge and experience of working with people.
The restorative power of gardens
Edmund's belief in the value of gardens is not simply professional; it is deeply personal. His own garden, which was featured on BBC Gardeners' World for its design and planting, became a sanctuary for him and his family during his young son Arlen's treatment for a brain tumour, who is now over 2 years in remission.
During an exceptionally challenging period, the garden offered a place of comfort and refuge - somewhere to spend time outdoors, find moments of calm and take a little space from the pressures of everyday life. The experience reinforced something Edmund had long felt: that gardens are about much more than how they look. They can influence how we feel, help us reconnect with ourselves and the natural world, and offer strength and comfort when we need it most.
Alongside his design practice, Edmund works with Thrive, the gardening for health charity. Having spent more than fifteen years in the charity sector, he was drawn to the opportunity to combine that experience with his passion for horticulture. His work with Thrive further deepened an understanding of how gardens and gardening can support wellbeing, build confidence and create opportunities for connection. This understanding continues to inform his approach, with a particular appreciation for the ability of thoughtfully designed spaces to encourage us to slow down, be present and reconnect with the natural world.
Creativity and perspective
Art and photography have also played an important part in shaping Edmund's outlook. He has long been drawn to landscapes where nature gradually reclaims places shaped by people, as well as the textures, details and quieter moments that can easily be overlooked. Photography encouraged him to slow down, look more closely and see familiar surroundings from a different perspective – qualities that continue to influence the way he observes and designs gardens.
He is particularly interested in the balance between the designed and the natural: the way a garden can have a clear sense of structure and purpose while still feeling relaxed, abundant and full of life. He enjoys creating spaces that invite exploration and discovery, with a sense of warmth, individuality and, perhaps, a little unexpected magic.
Edmund Jackson Garden Design
Today, through Edmund Jackson Garden Design, Edmund works with clients across Kent, the South East of England and further afield. Drawing on his varied experiences and love of the natural world, he creates thoughtful, personal gardens that respond to their setting and the people who use them.
Whether reimagining an entire outdoor space or bringing new life to an existing garden, his aim is to create places that feel welcoming and connected to nature – gardens that encourage exploration, offer moments of calm and bring lasting enjoyment to everyday life.
He believes the most rewarding gardens are those that become part of the lives of the people who enjoy them: places that change with the seasons, grow over time and continue to give something back.
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