Meet our Head Gardener - Tina Hammond

What is it like being a gardener for the National Trust?

It is diverse – it’s interesting, and it’s not just gardening! Firstly, I work in a wonderful garden, and secondly, like I said, it’s not just gardening. We engage with our visitors – there is a social element, which I love.

What is your favourite part of the Gardens?

The ornamental gardens – the deep borders and the gravel beds. I love planting the borders, seeing the colours and exuberance. You really feel as though you are amongst the plants.

What is your favourite plant?

There isn’t just one! There are just so many lovely ones. The one I like the most is the Azara microphylla. It is definitely the best early, scented shrub – it smells like chocolate cake. There are just so many beautiful plants, I couldn’t choose a favourite flower… maybe the wonderfully exotic ginger lily.

What are your top gardening tips?

I would say don’t be scared to mix annuals in on your herbaceous borders, as they will bring colour for the whole season.

Be bold with colour – gardens are the one place where you can experiment.

Garden for wildlife – there is nothing nicer than seeing butterflies and bees in your garden, it’s just wonderful.

Do you have any advice for those looking to build a gardening career?

Get some gardening experience. Be sure it is what you want to do. If you want to work for the National Trust, volunteer in the gardens – once you have this experience on you CV it is easier to get employment with us.

What do you love most about working at Felbrigg?

The team is amazing. And it is just an all round lovely property – the Hall, the park is lovely, the gardens. All of it.