Temperatures are already climbing and gardens are showing the strain. Joe Perkins explains why the answer isn't more water but "right plant, right place" — from a National Trust garden with zero irrigation this summer, to an 85% cut in irrigated turf at a Commonwealth war cemetery in Tunisia, to everyday gardens across Sussex.

The garden should never be the last thing on the list. Whether you're building from scratch, renovating an existing property, or trying to get more from an outdoor space that's never quite worked, involving a garden designer early will save time, money, and the frustration of redoing work that was never quite right. A home that extends thoughtfully into its garden is simply a better home to live in.

Why do we do The Chelsea Flower Show: Gold Medals, Challenges and Purpose

The Rise of the Productive Garden: Why More Clients Want to Grow Their Own

When we first began designing The King’s Trust: Seeding Success Garden for RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2025 , our aim was to create a space that represented growth, opportunity and hope, qualities that lie at the heart of The King’s Trust. Winning Gold at Chelsea was an unforgettable moment as was meeting the King, but for us, the most meaningful part of the project began afterwards. Thanks to the combined support of Omaze Education Fund, Project Giving Back and Elemis, the g

Much of our work involves historic homes and sensitive landscapes, where creativity must go hand in hand with careful compliance.

Joe Perkins Design has announced its collaboration with the Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC) to redevelop the Medjez-El-Bab war cemetery in Tunisia into a climate resilient, biodiverse and sustainable space.