What got you interested in gardening?
From an early age I was drawn into the joys of gardening by my mother, Sheila, who has worked in horticulture since the tender age of 17. When I was very young she was the manager at a nursery that grew for Chelsea and many a weekend was spent helping with assorted tasks including planting, cutting and packing for distribution and of course a child's favourite the blackout!

When did you start gardening?
When I left home in my early twenties, I moved to a bungalow in Goring and had my very first garden, it was mine to have a completely free reign with for design and choice of plants. It was brilliant fun as I laid my own patio and spent hours pointing it in the gruelling sunshine ... I had a fantastic tan that summer!
I remember growing 6ft high verbascums in the garden, which attracted a lot of attention, as they were quite unusual at the time. To my surprise the following summer, Worthing Borough Council grew verbascum for some of the small roundabouts in Goring.

What plant has been the most difficult?
Cuttings have never caused me a problem, so for me personally the most difficult plants to grow have been plants grown from seed which take a long time to germinate. I recall some hellebore seeds which took 3 months to germinate, by which time I'd almost given up on them!  

Where do you get your ideas from?
I try to visit as many flower shows where growers exhibit to see new ideas. I feel that we all have personal preferences in plants, whether it be grasses, annuals, roses, perennials, shrubs, patio gardens ... the list is endless.   

Where do you go for your gardening equipment?
Most of my gardening equipment I've had for years, thankfully it seems to last. For any additional items I usually shop around by checking the garden centres, hardware stores etc. Probably one of the best items I own is a pair of secateurs
which were bought as a gift from Holland and were rather expensive I believe.    

Who has influenced you the most?
I would have to say simply ... my mum!

Do you watch gardening programmes or read gardening magazines?
I always watch the Chelsea Flower Show, I love to see the garden design competition. 

Tina's Top Tips:
a) When growing from seed - simply follow the instructions and don't get too impatient! The seedlings are worth the wait. On the rare occasions when seeds do not germinate you will find that your money will be readily refunded from the suppliers.
b) When choosing plants always select according to where you wish to plant them in your garden. Some plants like part shade, some full sun, or specific soil types. Choose wisely to get the best from your plants.
c) Make sure you water the plants regularly, if required. I always have dishes under my potted plants as they dry out a lot faster than if they were in the ground, where the roots go a lot deeper. 
d) Try to avoid leaving dead leaves on the ground as they tend to attract woodlice and slugs.
e) Dead head regularly to encourage growth and ensure a good show in your garden.