The Garden Consultant

Carl Coman's garden consultancy in the South West of England

The Garden Consultant is a garden advisory service led by Carl Coman, a professional with 25 years of experience in landscaping and horticulture. The activity focuses on personalised consultation in the client's own garden, covering East Devon, West Dorset and South Somerset.

What the consultation involves

The stated aim of the consultation is for the client to get more enjoyment from their garden. It is approached as a two-way conversation in which the owner's ideas are heard and ways to turn them into reality are explored. During the session, the consultant shares information and knowledge so that the client better understands their garden, taking into account soil conditions, aspect, plants that would thrive and practical considerations such as hard landscaping requirements.

Simple, cost-effective solutions that deliver immediate results are often identified, while other ideas require further discussion and analysis before deciding on the right option for each garden.

Action plan and client autonomy

At the end of the consultation, the client has a clear direction and a viable action plan, with the knowledge and confidence needed to undertake the project themselves or to appoint a professional to carry out all or part of the work.

Professional background

Carl Coman trained at Merrist Wood College and set up his own garden creation, construction and maintenance business. For 16 years he worked for BALI award-winning landscape contractor Tony Benger Landscaping, initially in garden construction and later in contracts management, until he joined the senior management team and played a major role in the company's growth.

He has worked alongside SGD (Society of Garden Designers) professionals, including Chelsea Gold Medal winner Hugo Bugg. He has recently directed the restoration of a 6-acre (approximately 2.4-hectare) Victorian garden for a Grade 2 Star listed property, both managing and providing a hands-on role.

Coverage area

The service covers gardens in East Devon, West Dorset and South Somerset.