My heart is in the meeting place with nature. The place where we can share in its riches.My ‘workadology’ compares with that of many in the service industry. It is just like baking or symphonic directing.The instruments, ingredients and specific objectives are the only variables.These variables must all work together and fall into just the right place.The list in order of priority:The client’s lifestyle, needs and dreams.The garden environment.The garden’s various microclimates.The soil conditions.The practicalities.The technicalitiesThe budget.I look forward to opening the Garden Gate with you.This is how twenty years of being a horticulturist comes together:Three years of retail management at Crazy Cosmos Nursery in Paarl, where I learnt to love gardeners and their never-ending curiosity to understand more of their gardens.Six years of managing The Landscaper Un-Limited in Paarl, where I learnt about the hands that turn the soil. I learnt how rewarding it is to be instrumental in bringing a discussion about a bench under a tree into reality.Five years in the production and wholesale section of the industry, where I learnt to understand the special language of plants and how to respond to their needs.Two years at Stellenbosch University, where I was involved in garden design, installation and maintenance. Needless to say, I learnt to sharpen my pencil and became a skilled administrator.Two years retail and landscaping management at The Pink Geranium Nursery. Working with James Fisk somehow always reminds me of how I can fly. Our working relationship continues to be inspirational.