SUZI TURNER & MOY FIERHELLER
Having worked together since college, Suzi (left) and Moy now job-share as deputy head gardeners for the walled garden at Knepp Castle
PORTRAIT RICHARD BLOOM
Who has inspired your career?We have shared a career from college to our current position at Knepp – we’re horticultural partners in crime. A huge influence for both of us has been a network of incredible professional women gardeners in Sussex, with whom we have worked for years, sharing jobs, knowledge and raising families.
Favourite gardenThe Old Vicarage in Firle, East Sussex at the foot of the South Downs. It was designed by Lanning Roper and was the first garden we worked in together. Moy still cares for it today and has done so for 18 years. It is a dreamy series of walled gardens, tended with love for generations, which you can feel in every corner.
Worthwhile tips Use a good-quality moisturiser, with SPF.
Get to know your plants like you would a person – where are they from, what are their likes and dislikes? Don’t be afraid to experiment and play – death is a natural process.
Favourite ‘weed’ At Knepp, we reframe weeds as plants that have arrived under their own steam, and they get full consideration in terms of their place in the garden.
Biggest challenge facing gardeners today The only constant now is the extremes of our climate and unpredictable weather conditions. It’s important to learn and accept the way your garden moves and changes.
What can people do to garden more sustainably?
Repurpose everything you can before buying in something new. Look outside
