Dean Mears, 69, has spent the past six years transforming his garden in Llandough into an exotic space filled with unusual and rare plants.
What began as a hobby in retirement has grown into a popular stop on the National Garden Scheme and Penarth Open Gardens Trail.
“It started off as a hobby for myself and just grew from there,” he said. “Now it’s almost like a full-time job, but it’s something I really enjoy.”
The garden features a wide range of striking plants, including banana trees, carnivorous species, giant-leaf foxglove trees and towering Echium plants. Many require careful maintenance, with some needing to be moved indoors during winter due to their sensitivity to cold.
“There’s a lot here you wouldn’t normally see in a garden centre,” Dean said. “That’s why people are often surprised when they visit.”
As well as opening the garden to the public, Dean raises money through plant sales, propagating cuttings from his own collection to sell at affordable prices.
Proceeds have previously supported dog rescue charities like Many tears, and this year will also be shared with other animal causes.
Visitors can explore the garden on selected dates throughout the summer, with this year’s open days running on June 28, July 5, August 9 and August 23. Entry fees support nursing and health charities through the National Garden Scheme.
The garden has also gained wider attention after appearing on BBC Gardeners’ World, with the episode airing two weeks ago on June 5, helping to attract even more visitors.
Despite its popularity, Dean maintains the space entirely on his own, dedicating several hours each day to watering, repotting and managing the large collection of plants.
“It’s a lot of work, but it becomes routine,” he said. “You learn as you go, and every year you get better at understanding what the garden needs.”
Looking ahead, Dean said the focus is now on maintaining and refining the space rather than expanding it further, while continuing to welcome visitors and support charitable causes in the community.
