Planting

Planting

Planting is often what people remember most about a garden — but successful planting is rarely about the plants alone.

A beautiful planting scheme relies on understanding light, soil, drainage, scale and how a garden will evolve over time. The best gardens feel natural and effortless, but behind them sits careful planning and a considered understanding of how different plants live together.

At Tom Child, we design planting schemes that provide structure, interest and balance throughout the year. Rather than focusing on short-term colour, we create gardens that mature beautifully and continue improving season after season.

Designing for the right conditions

Every garden presents a unique set of growing conditions.

Sunlight levels, soil type, drainage, exposure and surrounding architecture all influence which plants will thrive. A successful planting scheme begins by understanding these conditions and selecting plants that naturally suit the environment.

We consider:

• Light levels throughout the day

• Soil type and drainage

• Seasonal performance

• Long-term growth and maintenance

• Colour, texture and structure

• Wildlife and biodiversity opportunities

The result is planting that looks healthier, lasts longer and requires less intervention over time.

Structure first, colour second

Many planting schemes focus heavily on flowers but overlook the structural framework that gives a garden year-round presence.

We begin with the bones of the garden — trees, shrubs, grasses and evergreen structure — before layering in seasonal planting to provide colour, movement and interest.

This creates planting schemes that remain attractive throughout the year, not just during a few weeks of summer.

Planting that evolves with the garden

A newly planted garden should never be judged solely on day one.

Some of the most successful gardens are designed with maturity in mind, allowing space for plants to develop naturally and achieve their intended form over time.

Our approach balances immediate visual impact with long-term growth, ensuring the garden continues to improve as it establishes itself.

Natural, considered combinations

Great planting is about relationships.

Contrasting textures, seasonal succession, height variation and subtle colour palettes all play a role in creating gardens that feel cohesive rather than crowded.

Whether we're creating a contemporary architectural scheme or a softer naturalistic border, every planting decision is made in the context of the wider landscape.

A garden that feels alive

Planting is often the final layer that transforms a space from a construction project into a living garden.

Based in Purley, Tom Child designs and installs planting schemes across Surrey and South London, creating gardens that feel established, balanced and beautiful throughout the seasons.