PERFECT HARMONY

Rosarian Michael Marriott and TV producer Rosie Irving have very different ideas on gardening, but they have discovered the secret to sharing a single plot amicably

- TAMSIN WESTHORPE

One person’s love can be another’s loathing. Letting weeds float in and out of borders might please some, but offend others. Creating a garden is very personal, so it’s no wonder that gardeners might struggle to share a space, spending many precious hours arguing over plans and plants.

Michael Marriott and Rosie Irving met 14 years ago through their work in horticulture, and have shared their Shropshire garden for the past ten years by having their own designated areas. Their decision to divide the garden and the success of this idea has proved that two gardeners can successfully transform a space into something magical that reflects their personalities.

“When I first gardened alongside Michael, I would say things like ‘Oh dearest, wouldn’t that look better further down?’ He would never reply, he’d just smile and then carry on, so this was when I thought of the idea of having our own areas. This way we have harmony,” explains Rosie.

Michael was the leading rose expert at David Austin Roses for 35 years, and is the most knowledgeable rosarian in the country, if not in the world. “Rosie didn’t like roses when I met her, but I have changed her mind,” he says. Rosie is a