Winning a BBM Overseas Travel Scholarship* has changed Tyler’s life in more ways than he expected.
Tyler outside the front of Claude Monet's home in Giverny, France, with a floral arrangement picked from the gardens
Who were the main influencers on your young gardening life?
From an early age my love for gardens started with my grandfather growing veggies, roses, and orchids, and then later as a teenager with one of my early mentors, Cheree Johns and her native Australian garden.
What studies have helped you focus on your career?
The Diploma of Horticulture offered at the Ryde School of Horticulture (TAFE NSW) and short courses offered by ACS Distance Education.
Any career thoughts at that time?
I had ambitions to travel and explore the horticulture industry, but I was focused on finishing my studies. Once I finished year 12, I began my horticulture studies with a pretty good idea, but not a rock-solid plan for the future.
Tyler working in the lily pond at Monet's Garden in Giverny, France.
What motivated you to enter the BBM travel scholarship competition in 2019?
When I graduated with my diploma in 2018, I met Graham Ross at the ceremony. He mentioned the scholarships and after a good yarn, I decided why not enter!
How did you feel when you won the scholarship, and what was the COVID-19 two-year wait like?
I was absolutely ecstatic. It was like winning a lotto draw! The two-year wait was fine, I'm a patient person. I was able to work under contract at the Royal Botanic Gardens Sydney for most of that time which was an amazing way to spend the two years. I was able to work in every garden bed within RBG Sydney.
What destinations were on your ‘must see’ bucket list in the UK?
Lost Garden of Heligan in Cornwall, Hampton Court Palace, Hidcote Manor, Chelsea Physic Garden, and Holland Park, to name a few. There were many others, some I got to see and some that I'll have to go back again!
Tour of the Tropical Nursery with "The Plant Messiah", Carlos Magdalena, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew
Working on a gold medal-winning Chelsea Flower Show Garden must have had its moments?
In one word, adrenaline. A lot rides on a show garden, and when the team is going full steam bringing the designers vision together, 16-hour days are nothing!
What did you take away from your work experience at Claude Monet’s Garden in Giverny, France?
The respect for the horticulturists maintaining the garden as Monet would have enjoyed comes out on top. I also gained a profound appreciation for using different, densely planted combinations of plants which through the season develop into a rich tapestry of colour and texture.
What would you say to teenagers at high school undecided about their future career?
Look at what horticulture and its many facets has to offer, from scientific research to hands-on garden maintenance, to media and landscape design, and garden centres; there are so many aspects to horticulture which can offer an inspiring career. I wouldn't go back.
Tyler with Sarah Davis from Hidcote Manor.
Any advice for a young horticultural graduate from recent years or about to graduate in 2024?
Apply for a scholarship. Keep up to date, continue with best practice and sustainable approaches so we can encourage the best possible outcomes for the industry and home gardeners alike. Horts are like a band of brothers and sisters, you're never alone if you need help.
What impacts has the scholarship had on your life?
Utterly positive. I've had countless opportunities I never would have thought of previously. From guest hosting the Garden Clinic programme on 2GB, to developing a growing network amongs tour industry. I doubt I'd have gained the confidence to set myself up with my own business without having undertaken my BBM scholarship.
You’ve been invited to join the Garden Clinic radio team at a young age. How do you see that playing out?
I'd love to do it until I run out of steam. Graham and Sandra have known me for the past five or so years, but I've known Graham and Sandra since I was a tike. They were household voices on the weekends for me, and it's a privilege to be able to now add my voice to the programme. I absolutely love sharing what I can with the listeners, and to have a chuckle while doing it! I'll do everything I can to make the team proud.
What lies ahead in your career?
Whether it's presenting or landscaping, I'm ready for a challenge. All I want to get out of my career is creating sustainable, beautiful gardens, share knowledge and wisdom where possible, and become even more involved with Australia's horticultural industry.
A gold medal for the Meta Garden, alongside Joe Perkins of Joe Perkins Design, and Jake Catling of The Landscape Consultants.
Keep up to date with Tyler’s horticultural journey by following him on Instagram @thoward_hort or visit
thplantscapes.com.au
*In 2022, the BBM Travel Scholarship programname changed to Global Footprints Scholarships. All enquiries, including how to enter, visit: globalfootprints.org.au
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