“GARDENING QUITE
LITERALLY SAVED MY LIFE’’
LEIGH JOHNSTONE AKA ‘THE BEARDY GARDENER’
Leigh Johnstone, known as The Beardy Gardener, is an award-winning garden designer, writer, broadcaster and mental health advocate. He is passionate about helping people connect with gardening and nature to support positive mental health, wellbeing and confidence.
Leigh rediscovered his relationship with gardening during the COVID-19 pandemic, when time spent outside became an important part of his own recovery. Since then, he has used gardening, storytelling and design to create accessible, meaningful spaces that help people feel calmer, more connected and more able to engage with the natural world.
His work spans community, education, show gardens and private projects, with a particular focus on children and young people, nature-based learning, social connection and wellbeing. Leigh has created gardens for major flower shows including RHS Chelsea, RHS Hampton Court and BBC Gardeners’ World.
Leigh has appeared on BBC Gardeners’ World, BBC News and BBC Radio, and has been featured in national and international publications including The New York Times, The Mirror and The Sun. Through his design work, writing, broadcasting and large social media following, he continues to share honest, practical and personal reflections on how gardening can support happier, healthier lives.
Featured in
COMMISSIONED GARDEN
Festival Place Shopping Centre
“The Beardy Gardener’s Giving Garden at Festival Place went beyond just being a beautiful addition to the surroundings…
…It had a tangible and lasting impact on local schools and communities. By providing a learning space, the garden was part of a valuable resource for nearby schools. Students had the opportunity to learn about gardening, sustainability, and the importance of nature. The garden Leigh designed has become a hub for the community to gather. Families and individuals, who might not have had access to green spaces otherwise, can now enjoy the colourful and green environment while visiting us.”
Emily Palmer, Festival Place Shopping
CONTACT ME
If I can help design you a garden, speak at an event, deliver a communtity project or anything else, then I would love to hear from you. Reach out and I will get back to you as soon as I can.
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