'Perfect Plants for Problem Places'
A talk by Matthew Biggs - 14th October 2025

We were privileged to host “the nicest man in Horticulture", Matthew Biggs, for our autumn talk in October 2025.  His subject (chosen from a menu of options by the committee) was ‘Perfect Plants for Problem Places’.  Matt is one of those amazing people who is able to speak unscripted and engagingly on his subject and we were totally enthralled.  Before talking about specific plants, he explained the importance of studying the intrinsic characteristics of a particular ‘problem place’ including its aspect, drainage and soil type and ideas for addressing the problems, including of course the value of good garden compost for soil improvement.   Turning to the specifics, we gathered planting suggestions for hot, dry sunny spots through plants for dry shade, north facing walls, clay and chalk, all embellished with his own personal anecdotes.
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If you would like a copy of his handout listing specific plants for different problem places, please drop an email to [email protected] or contact us via our website

Finally, Matt  spoke movingly about his long battle with cancer and exciting plans for creating more congenial outside spaces at Mount Vernon hospital where he’s received regular treatment for some years.
​Visit the project's fundraising page

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