PEOPLE IN GLASSHOUSES.....

A Hartley is the ultimate glasshouse - creating an environment based on the Victorian vision of utilising the unpredictable British climate to the full!

When Queen Victoria came to the throne in 1837, huge stuctures like those at Kew were well established, but to ordinary Victorians the opportunity to bring the glamour of the winter garden into their homes was irresistible - thus botanical conservatories were born, providing hothouse plants and exotic fruits to enrich the Victorian diet and introduce the scent of the tropics.

And not just the Victorians. Today Hartley can number aristocracy, rock stars, actors and television personalities amongst their clients so whether you are a gardening professional or an enthusiastic amateur you will be in good company.

The Hartley Botanic stand was designed by award-winning garden designer Claire Whitehouse who when she is not winning medals is a Garden judge for the Royal Horticultural Society. 'We were thrilled that Claire was designing for us,' says Johnny Mobasher, the Managing Director of Hartley Botanic. 'I was always aware of her reputation and admired and enjoyed her gardens but our first real contact came a couple of years ago when, beset by bad weather, plant shortage and design problems, our stand looked like it was just not going to happen in time. Claire, who was designing a different garden at the time, was passing by. Within a quarter of an hour or so, our stand was swamped with helpers and plant suppliers - it was like the cavalry arriving to save the day. Later, we won a certificate for outstanding display! I have never forgotten, so when we were looking for a designer for this year's Chelsea Flower Show, Claire was our first choice.'