RESILIENT NATURAL GARDENS

An olive tree with various native plants are in the foreground, in a natural garden in Ericeira

I’m a gardener based in Ericeira, creating gardens that feel alive, welcome wildlife, and thrive in our local climate. Using drought-tolerant and native plants supports our local ecosystem, saves water, and creates gardens that feel like they belong. I love to work with natural rock, gravel, and wood to create habitats for humans and wildlife, and natural harmonious spaces.

Green native plants and tall, feathery ornamental grasses in a garden design in Ericeira
Verbena boniarensis and other native plant against a pink natural background in Ericeira, Portugal.

Process

Sunlit ornamental grass in a garden, in a garden design on west coast of Portugal

  • Every project begins with a short, informal visit to your garden. This gives us a chance to walk the space together, talk through your ideas, and confirm what level of design support would suit you best.

    After the visit, I’ll recommend the most appropriate next steps and outline what working together would look like before any paid work begins.

  • If your garden layout works well but the planting needs an update, I offer a planting design and installation service.

    If your garden needs more than planting — such as new paths, terraces, decks, or defined zones — I provide a concept and more detailed design that looks at the garden as a whole.

  • I source plants from trusted nurseries, usually from one specialised in native Portuguese and Mediterranean plants. These plants are grown without the use of fertiliser and in real-world conditions, creating resilient plants with strong root systems that will thrive and last.

    I personally set out and plant the garden, adjust spacing and composition on site, and supervise any additional help as needed to ensure the design is realised properly.

  • For projects involving multiple trades, I can manage the process from start to finish — including soil preparation, irrigation, and hard landscaping. I have developed relationships with trusted contractors.

    Project management includes a set number of site visits and coordination hours, with additional time available if required.

  • Gardens are never static; they are spaces that change and evolve. Although my style is designed to be low-maintenance, seasonal check-ins will keep things looking their best. I offer an aftercare service and will also leave care instructions for the garden.