Gardener's green thumb blooms at The Firs
Gardener Jordan Marriott has been hard at work for several years in the garden at The Firs independent living complex in Nottingham.
Having had a love of plants since he was nine years old, Jordan has embarked on what he calls “not a formal renovation project, but a series of small improvements” to the house’s gardens, which have made a big impact on both residents and visitors, who can enjoy them to the fullest extent, especially in good weather.
The Firs has been lucky enough to receive donations of plants from residents, their families and an anonymous benefactor, allowing him to create a dazzling display of life and colour. Jordan describes the theme as like an old cottage, with lilies, dahlias, salvia, rudbeckia and begonias being some of the residents’ favourite flowers.
He also loves to get the residents involved in a limited amount of work, to enable them to take ownership of the space.
Resident Mairi Barnard calls the garden “splendid.”
She added, “I walk out of my bungalow to join my friends in the lounge for many of the lovely activities the staff put on and I see the beautiful flowers and plants – the perfect start to a day.”
Jordan also has an environmentally conscious way of doing things. He explains, “We don't use petrol-powered machinery anymore, and I grow plants that don't need pesticide control. There is also a wildlife area which has badgers living there. Residents help to feed the birds, so we have lots of them around.”
Jane Richmond, Leasehold Manager at The Firs, says, “We are really lucky at The Firs complex to have a dedicated gardener. His kindness, gentleness and hard work made him an instant hit with the residents, and he has totally transformed our garden, allowing us to put on a range of activities and events out there.
Jordan has been studying to complete a Level 3 in Horticulture, which he is due to finish in early 2025.
Jane added, “We are part of a small team and Jordan is an invaluable member – always willing to help other staff out, with an enthusiasm to learn, expand his role and bring his expertise to the garden.”
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