A Broadstone plant expert has raised almost £2,000 to support the development of a new sensory garden at Chestnut Nursery in Poole. Mike Clifford and his wife, Tina, donated £1,900 following a series of summer openings at their private Botanical Jungle Garden, bringing their total fundraising for the charitable garden centre to more than £12,000 over seven years.
Known for his extensive collection of rare and unusual plants, Clifford has cultivated thousands of exotic and tropical specimens at his Broadstone home. Despite challenging heatwave conditions, the couple maintained their garden and opened it to the public four times during the summer, with entrance fees donated to Chestnut Nursery.
Chestnut Nursery, operated by mental health charity Plants and Minds, provides horticultural therapy for adults experiencing life-impacting mental health conditions. Team members grow a wide range of plants, including perennials, bedding plants, shrubs, climbers and exotic varieties, which are sold to the public.
The latest fundraising highlights the important role of horticulture, gardening and community support in helping charitable nurseries provide therapeutic opportunities and develop welcoming green spaces.
Read more at Dorset View.
