Chelsea, Cornwall

Cornwall’s garden designer Sam Ovens is no stranger to success at RHS Chelsea where he will be showcasing his latest design this month

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Cornish garden designer Sam Ovens has become one of the country’s most sought-after landscape artists – and this month will see him going for gold at the RHS Chelsea with his animal-friendly design.

Sam won a silver Gilt medal in 2016 and holds RHS Gold Medals, for his Wedgwood Garden at Chatsworth Flower Show in 2017 and 2014 Garden at Tatton Park where he was crowned Young Designer of the Year.

“Designing an animal friendly garden is a surprisingly common part of a design brief., he explains of his design for the Animal Health Trust. We are a nation of animal lovers so many of my client have pets that need to be taken into account, dogs being the most common.

“For me a dog friendly garden can still be beautiful, dogs love to explore and I think actually a plant filled garden is great place to investigate and play. Care just needs to be taken to ensure none of the commonly poisonous plants are used and that the plant selection is robust and will bounce back when our doggy friends decide to take short cut across the borders!”

Within his design he will also include a shady spot, different textures from paving and grass, to cobbles and mulch, a clear path around or through the garden for exercise – and to satisify their appetites – fresh water to keep dogs hydrated and tasty herbs.