David's journey from isolation to inspiration

I’m a self-employed horticulturalist and garden designer based in Angus, Scotland. This is my life, almost my sense of identity, but it can be isolating. I've spent my own money to be involved, working on RHS Chelsea Flower Show gardens just to feel part of the industry.   

From 16 I was employed on a private estate, working alone in a beautiful garden surrounded by a 12-foot wall. While there was so much to appreciate, I felt so isolated. We only opened to the public for one month a year, but this is when I came alive. 

At 21 I decided to stop being a prisoner in paradise and set up my own business, Pullar Horticulture.  I wanted to be seen as a professional horticulturalist, not just garden maintenance. When I started, I was too cheap, I was run ragged for low paid work. By my mid 30’s I felt completely burnt out. Professional equipment is expensive and only charging £10 an hour, you have to work a lot before you make any profit.  

Now I've built a name for myself. I have clients who invest in their garden, and pay me to develop them, making the most of their space. Its only taken 20 years!  

A few years ago, chronic neck pain and tennis elbow made me consider throwing it all in. I had multiple doctors’ appointments and approached Perennial for support, who gave me a series of physio appointments.   Eventually I was diagnosed with Fibromyalgia, which explains so much. It's only when you have health problems that you realise how vulnerable you are being self-employed. 

I needed to future-proof my career, so I’m now a part time lecturer at Dundee and Angus College. I’ve also set up a hort academy at a prison in Perth, to support prisoners’ rehabilitation. I still do gardening but if I’m unwell I have days to recuperate, as sometimes it hits me like a train, physically and mentally.    

Last year I was chosen to build a showcase garden as part of the Scottish Garden Design Competition at Scone Palace, with a theme of hope.  I worked with a team from Castle Huntley Prison, and we won silver but more importantly we also won the Peoples’ Choice Award.  That led to a commission designing a courtyard garden for a secure children’s unit including Highland and Mediterranean murals, to help young people take their mind somewhere else.      

Feeling isolated working in the walled garden has given me valid insight into working with people in prison.  I talk from experience and people take from it what they will.  I enjoy creating opportunities, as trying new things and meeting people helps you grow.