There are some fantastic specialist nurseries these days.

I recently picked up three lovely varieties from The Exotic Garden Company (01728 454456) in Aldeburgh in Suffolk. It’s worth a visit just to see the huge displays. They are true plantsmen, who seriously know their stuff. Two Fatsia japonicas or Japanese Aralia, a spreading evergreen shrub with deeply lobed, dark green leaves and round creamy white flowers on long stalks in September to October.

Plus a Musa basjoo or hardy green banana which brings a little of the orient to Suffolk. To keep it company, I was recommended a Rhodocoma capensis or restio, from South Africa.

Beth Chatto Gardens  www.bethchatto.co.uk

A really enjoyable garden in Elmstead Market to visit at any time of year, it was also the place I picked up some plants for a customer whose garden was in need of high-quality plants that could withstand less than stellar drainage in heavy clay soil. The hellebores in the wooded areas of Beth Chatto were particularly inspiring, as it shows what can be achieved in shade.

Swann’s Nursery - www.swannsnursery.co.uk

A massive selection at this nearby nursery I have recently discovered in Bromeswell, they are also specialists in shrubs and trees of every type imaginable. The labelling is really helpful, and there is always someone on hand to give advice. I picked up a really healthy and vigorous Juniperus x media recently as well as a little round conifer. A great way to spend an afternoon just wandering around.

Pearce’s Patios - pearcespatios@btinternet.com

I’ve had the great pleasure to work with Adrian and while I was working in the front garden of a new client, he and his team were transforming the back garden - 01473 611 374.