Alfie began his horticultural journey after being inspired by successfully propagating a Monstera deliciosa at his home. He is currently studying a Foundation Plant Science degree at The Eden Project in Cornwall.

He is  lives in Cornwall and has an ambition to run his own eco-friendly market garden and nursery. He sees this as a way to provide employment opportunities locally and establish a pathway into horticulture for other green fingered enthusiasts, or complete novices by introducing them into the horticultural world.

His studies at The Eden Project are giving him the foundations to fully understand the in depth science and processes behind plants as a whole, before setting up his own business.

His dream is to be able to sell produce that he has grown himself from his own nursery.  The scholarship award from The Colegrave Seabrook Foundation has enabled him to begin the first steps of this project.  The funding from this scholarship has allowed him to purchase important equipment to kick start his business plans.

Alfie told us “Not only is horticulture a hobby it is also a huge passion and massive part of my daily life now. I am so excited to have been awarded this scholarship and very grateful to have been selected.”

You can follow Alfie’s growing journey on Instagram at @photosynthesmith.

Smart Garden Products have supported five students in their horticultural journey this year. Not only have students been given a financial boost, but they have the opportunity to participate in a Development Day at the Peterborough HQ in September. This will give the students an insight into the running of a major horticultural supplier and valuable business experience. We are very grateful for the support of Smart Garden Products to the Colegrave Seabrook Foundation.