Helping those in horticulture carry on
The National Garden Scheme has been Perennial’s largest single donor for 40 years, donating over £2.6million during that time. This sustained funding has provided vital financial support to the charity enabling them to support those facing challenges in the horticulture community, such as Lester.
Working in horticulture isn’t always straightforward. Challenges such as seasonality of work, physical injury, isolated working or risk of financial hardship can arise when least expected.When Lester found himself facing a number of these challenges, he turned to Perennial for support.Lester built his career as a gardener after leaving the military, developing his skills through hands-on experience, formal study and years working in large, established gardens.
“I’ve always had an interest in gardening,” he says. “Clients rely on my knowledge, knowing what to do, and when to do it.” But in 2024, Lester was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, after experiencing symptoms for several years. That’s when he turned to Perennial. “Their support has been great. I called their helpline and was connected to a case worker, who put me in contact with services like the Growth Hub and offering guidance as I think about the future.”
Gardening is physically demanding and Parkinson’s has made daily tasks significantly harder. Mowing for hours takes its toll as his balance isn’t always reliable. Even getting back up after working low down can be difficult.
To adapt, Lester now uses tools like battery-operated secateurs to reduce strain and maintain precision. Still, the condition presents constant challenges.Despite this, Lester continues working, driven by both passion and necessity. “My partner Lynn can’t work due to illness, so I have to keep going. If I don’t work, we can’t pay the rent. That pressure is always there.”
Determined to stay independent, Lester focuses on managing his condition through exercise, going to the gym several times a week. When he’s on the rowing machine he says “I imagine Parkinson’s as a boat chasing me down a river, and I just need to keep it behind me. I’ve got to keep moving to stay ahead of it.”
Looking ahead, Lester knows he may not always be able to continue physically demanding work. He is now exploring ways to adapt his career, including media, public speaking and sharing his knowledge in less physical ways. “I still want to be involved in gardening – just differently,” he explains.
By sharing his story, Lester hopes to support others facing similar challenges. “Everyone’s journey is different,” he says. “But if this helps even one person, it’s worth it.”
Despite everything, he remains determined. “It’s not all doom and gloom,” he says. “You’ve just got to keep going.”
This story first featured in the Little Yellow Book of Gardens and Health Vol.6, 2026
Click here to read about our partnership with Perennial
