A brief history

1990 saw the beginning of Cotswold Garden Flowers. Bob Brown bought an acre of land at Badsey, on the edge of the beautiful Cotswolds, originally intended for use as a burial ground.

LAYING THE FOUNDATIONS

He imported 70 tonnes of mushroom compost as 21 years prior to being bought, the top soil had been stripped off and sold. The soil here is still improved heavy clay yet the garden displays what an abundance of varied and exceptional plants be can grown in these conditions.

Bob’s ethos is indeed to grow and sell perennials that are easy and unusual for the flower garden.

The present and beyond

Today, he is in partnership with one of his sons, Edmund Brown and together they have one of the largest collections of plants for sale in Europe in one location. Most of these plants are propagated on site. Together they have over 80 years combined specialist plant knowledge.

Ed has accumulated a National Collection of Sambucus and continues to breed new hybrids and you may have even seen him on TV discussing them. Ed has also set up Just Must perennials which supply plug plants to trade. Some lines are now available to the public through the Cotswold Garden Flowers website.

CGF has one of the largest collections of plants for sale in Europe in one location.

Bob is a widely reknowned plantsman having introduced and discovered many well known cultivars. He continues to extend his encyclopaedic knowledge and contribute toward making the world of horticulture, including guest speaking at events and regularly writing for the Which? grading magazine. Bob has been awarded many acclamations including the very prestigious Gold Veitch Memorial Medal for ‘Recognition of services given in the advancement of the science and practice of horticulture.”

We’re here to help

Our nursery team at Cotswold Garden Flowers are always on hand to share their plant passion and any expertise. Feel free to visit Badsey retail plant nursery and enjoy the free gardens, or alternatively browse our online shop for mail order.

Call us on 01386 422829