About George

George Daniel Long is a horticultural consultant, garden designer and educator with expertise spanning horticultural consultancy, planting design, sustainability and professional education. His work combines practical horticultural knowledge with research-led thinking to deliver gardens and advice that are both beautiful and environmentally responsible.

Background

George began his career in the entertainment industry, performing in West End, touring and international productions before pursuing a lifelong passion for horticulture. The same professionalism, creativity and attention to detail that characterised his performing career now underpin his work as a horticultural consultant and designer.

Qualifications & Professional Experience

He was awarded the Royal Horticultural Society Master of Horticulture (MHort) with Distinction and received the prestigious MHort Dissertation Award for achieving the highest dissertation mark of the year. He holds a Diploma in Garden Design from The English Gardening School, Chelsea, where he studied under Simon Pyle and Rosemary Alexander. During his studies, he received additional tuition from leading designers including: Diarmuid Gavin, Cleve West and Andy Sturgeon, together with the Royal Horticultural Society Certificate in Horticulture and a Diploma in Practical Horticulture from Capel Manor College.

George’s first show garden “Union Jacked” won best in show at Woburn Abbey Garden Show 2012. George was subsequently invited by The Duchess of Bedford to redesign the garden at The Woburn Hotel. Furthermore, his design now sits in the estate archives next to those of Humphry Repton.

He is currently completing an MSc in Global Environment and Sustainability through the University of London, further developing his expertise in sustainable horticulture, food systems and environmental sustainability.

Alongside his consultancy, George is a Royal Horticultural Society Professional Associate, serving as both a Lead Examiner and Project Supervisor. He examines practical competencies for RHS Levels 2 and 3, supports candidates undertaking the RHS Level 3 Award in Horticultural Investigation, and delivers online seminars to international cohorts on research methodology, presentation skills and professional discussions.

Sustainability Mission

George believes great garden design should work in harmony with both people and the environment. Every project is an opportunity to create a beautiful, functional space while making responsible decisions that reduce environmental impact and enhance biodiversity.

Wherever possible, George seeks to retain and work with the existing character of a garden. Existing plants, materials and features are considered before introducing new ones, helping to reduce waste, preserve valuable resources and maintain a sense of place.

He aims to work with the natural levels of each site, avoiding unnecessary excavation wherever practicable. Where excavation is required, opportunities are sought to reuse soil and materials on site, reducing waste and unnecessary transport.

When new plants and materials are needed, George prioritises sustainable choices. Preference is given to peat-free nurseries, responsibly sourced materials and suppliers with strong environmental practices. He also seeks to work with local contractors and suppliers wherever practical, supporting local businesses while reducing transport impacts.

Recognising that every project is unique, George takes an evidence-based approach to decision-making rather than relying on fixed rules. By considering environmental, social and economic sustainability alongside quality, longevity and value, his aim is to create gardens that are resilient, beautiful and built to last.

The aim is to create gardens that are not only beautiful and functional today, but resilient and sustainable for years to come.

Find out more about George’s Garden Design, Planting Design and Horticultural Consultancy services, or get in touch to discuss your project.