Using Local Materials and Biodiversity

Milli describes crafting with local hazel, borrowing from the landscape and embracing biodiversity in her West Sussex garden.

Play episode from 19:20

chevron_right

Transcript

chevron_right

Transcript

Episode notes

The garden is a welcoming place for all, particularly for newcomers when guided by the gentle eye of Milli Proust, and under the instruction of her calming new book.

Milli joins us once again, this time to share the inspiring journey that’s led up to her most approachable book to date, and some of the easy-to-understand frameworks to create an effortlessly beautiful garden.

In this episode, discover:

How Milli Proust found floristry, and began creating a deeply loved, biodiverse garden in West Sussex
A gentle but practical way to think about why we garden focused around connection, memory, and belonging to nature
Milli’s “plant pyramid” and other simple frameworks for beginner gardeners planning borders
Ideas for low-maintenance but beautiful gardens, including orchards underplanted with bulbs, and using local materials

Milli’s taster course at Perch Hill on Wednesday 6th May 2026:

https://www.sarahraven.com/products/milli-proust-taster-course-beginner-gardeners?srsltid=AfmBOopaQgpAKlaAx724RwtbLXGrmm_NkyOCTWu2N42YnAOUzRlu--wl

Order Milli’s Book, ‘How Does Your Garden Grow?’:

https://www.amazon.co.uk/How-Does-Your-Garden-Grow/dp/1837832250

Products mentioned:

Aquilegia Vulgaris 'Hensol Harebell'

https://www.sarahraven.com/products/aquilegia-hensol-harebell

Galanthus nivalis (Common Snowdrop)

https://www.sarahraven.com/products/galanthus-nivalis

Wild Marjoram (Origanum vulgare)

https://www.sarahraven.com/products/wild-marjoram

Syringa meyeri 'Flowerfesta Pink'