About Me
I was born in Shillingstone, Dorset, into a farming family and grew up surrounded by horses, ponies, pigs, chickens, cows, dogs, and cats. My mother, a practical and resourceful woman, nurtured a love for herbs and vegetables in her garden—something that deeply influenced me.
In 1974, I left the UK for South Africa, where I spent two and a half years and met my future husband. After returning to England for five years, I married in Childe Okeford, then moved back to South Africa in 1983.
For over 40 years, I’ve been immersed in the world of herbs, organic gardening, and landscaping. In South Africa, I ran Bridget Kitley’s Herb Works, a thriving herb nursery where I taught workshops on medicinal and culinary herbs, natural insect repellents, and sustainable gardening practices. The interest in herbs, natural healing, and self-care was growing, and I was fortunate to build a successful business around this passion.
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Over 37 years, I established a thriving herb nursery in the Western Cape, offering workshops, growing and propagating plants, designing landscapes, and supplying both wholesale and retail clients. With a dedicated team, we built something truly special. The saying holds true—when you do what you love, it never feels like work! Whether working with herbs or landscaping plants, my enthusiasm has never faded.
I was also fortunate to share my knowledge through radio programs with Cape Talk, SAFM, CCFM, and Helderberg Radio, reaching a wide audience eager to learn about herbs and gardening. I’ve given talks and workshops to groups ranging from garden clubs to universities, always with the aim of inspiring others to embrace the power of plants.
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Now back in the UK, just outside Sherborne, I continue my passion for plants, expanding my experience into the unique challenges and joys of British gardening. I love engaging with people, sharing practical gardening tips, and bringing plants to life through storytelling, humour, and hands-on learning.
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Workshops, Talks, & Consultations
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Whether it’s a deep dive into medicinal herbs, the art of propagation, or designing herb gardens for beauty and function, I offer talks, workshops, and consultations to educate and inspire. If you’re looking for an engaging speaker or a hands-on workshop on gardening or herb gardening, I’d love to share my knowledge with your group or community.
I hope you enjoy browsing my work, and I truly look forward to meeting you soon!
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