Sarah Poynton

2023

Horticulture

Sponsored by Acorn Nursery

As the 2023 Global Footprints Horticulture Scholar, Sarah Poynton set out to expand her understanding of horticulture on an international scale. Her journey not only strengthened her technical knowledge but also deepened her sense of purpose within the field.

Sarah began her experience in Ironbridge in the UK with a placement at the renowned David Austin Roses nursery, known for over sixty years of rose breeding excellence. Working in the breeding department, she gained hands-on experience in developing and tracking new rose varieties, a process that brought both excitement and pride. The idea that one of her own crosses might one day be released to the public was a highlight. She also took away practical insights into daily workflow systems that she has since applied in her work at home.

Following this, Sarah travelled to London to attend the Chelsea Flower Show. The event's cutting-edge displays and innovative designs opened her eyes to new possibilities within horticultural practice. It was also a turning point in her journey, as the connections she made there shaped her next steps.

Those connections led her to Ash and Elm Horticulture, a market garden in rural mid Wales producing fresh food and flowers year-round. Here, Sarah immersed herself in every stage of seasonal growing from planting to harvesting and achieved a personal goal: inoculating mushroom logs. The experience gave her a practical understanding of sustainable food production and deepened her appreciation for community-supported agriculture.

Ash and Elm also reshaped Sarah’s view of horticulture as a tool for connection and care. Growing food for local communities made sustainability and food miles tangible concepts, and the garden's role in supporting wellbeing left a lasting impression.

Sarah’s final placement was at Exbury Gardens, a lifelong dream. Introduced to the team by a Clivia grower she had met at Chelsea, she had the chance to work closely with plant collections under the guidance of Theo, who generously shared his expertise, particularly in Nerines. The encouragement she received inspired her to expand her own collection and continue building networks within the horticultural community.

Each stage of Sarah’s scholarship contributed to a broader vision of what horticulture can be, not just as a profession but as a force for sustainability, creativity and community wellbeing. She returns home with new skills, renewed confidence and a clear direction for her future.

Global Footprints thanks Acorn Nursery for their generous sponsorship and support in making Sarah’s journey possible.