When Reece from @thegardenersadventure was diagnosed with cancer, he turned to gardening to help him get through one of the toughest times in his life. The sense of peace, the joy of watching things grow, and the chance to connect with nature helped his physical and mental health when he needed it most. Find out what inspires his plant choices, what he’s most proud of, and why he says gardening will always be more than just a hobby…
How did you get into gardening?
Image courtesy of Reece Follett
Gardening became a huge part of my life following my cancer diagnosis. During one of the most difficult times in my life, I found comfort and peace in being outdoors and connecting with nature. Gardening gave me something positive to focus on, helped me through my recovery, and became an important part of looking after my mental health. What started as a way to cope soon turned into a real passion and a journey that has completely changed my life.
What inspires you in the garden?
Images courtesy of Reece Follett
I’m inspired by the power that gardens have to make people feel better, both physically and mentally. I love creating a space that attracts wildlife, supports nature, and changes with the seasons. Seeing plants grow from tiny seedlings into something beautiful reminds me that even after difficult times, growth and new beginnings are possible.
What’s your favourite gardening style?
Images courtesy of Reece Follett
My favourite gardening style is a wildlife-friendly, cottage-style garden filled with colour, pollinator-friendly plants, and plenty of habitats for birds, bees, and insects. I enjoy creating a garden that feels natural, relaxing, and full of life. My greenhouse and allotment are full of variety and have both become places for me to escape to.
What are you most proud of?
Images courtesy of Reece Follett
I’m most proud of turning a difficult chapter in my life into something so positive. Gardening has not only helped my mental health and wellbeing, but it has also allowed me to inspire others through social media by sharing my gardening journey. Knowing that my story may encourage someone else to spend time outdoors or find comfort in gardening means a lot to me. I have created a safe space in my garden and allotment.
What are your future plans?
Images courtesy of Reece Follett
I want to continue developing my garden into an even bigger haven for wildlife and keep sharing my journey online. I’d love to inspire more people to discover the benefits that gardening can have on mental health and wellbeing. In the future, I’d also love to take on new gardening projects and continue learning as a gardener. I want to continue to develop my allotment with new varieties of fruit and vegetables.
What’s your top gardening tip for beginners?
Image courtesy of Reece Follett
Don’t be afraid to start small. Gardening is all about learning, and every gardener makes mistakes. Choose plants you love, enjoy the process, and remember that gardening isn’t about perfection, it’s about the joy and wellbeing it brings. Take your time, experiment, and most importantly, have fun with it. Pick 5 things you like to eat and try growing them.
How has gardening changed your life?
Image courtesy of Reece Follett
Gardening has given me purpose, confidence, and a place to escape when life feels overwhelming. It has shown me the healing power of nature and how something as simple as planting a seed can bring hope and happiness. My garden is much more than a hobby; it’s been a huge part of my recovery and continues to support my mental health every day. When I sit in my allotment, time stops still, and for a moment my head is not all over the place. It helped me find my identity when I was lost.
Grow like Reece
Image: Rose ‘Caroline Quentin’ from T&M
If you’d like to grow the plants and flowers Reece showcases on his Instagram page, here are some of his favourites:
Follow Reece at @thegardenersadventure to see what he plants through the coming seasons. For more inspiration, our full series of Featured Gardeners includes a huge number of incredible growers who are also worth a follow.
The Thompson & Morgan horticultural team produces a wealth of content around gardening and food production. Since the first seed catalogue was published in 1855, Thompson & Morgan has grown to become one of the UK’s largest Mail Order Seed and Plant companies. Through the publication of our catalogues and the operation of our award-winning website, Thompson & Morgan is able to provide home gardeners with the very best quality products money can buy.