Marc O’Neill’s journey from fashion design to gardening showcases a unique blend of creativity and passion. He initially pursued a career in fashion, learning to cut cloth and create patterns during a summer course. This experience ignited a lifelong love for making and designing clothes. However, the demanding nature of the fashion industry led him to seek solace in gardening during his time off.
Gardening provided an outlet for O’Neill’s creative energy, offering a different kind of fulfillment. He discovered that gardening allowed him to continue creating and making, but in a way that offered a sense of permanence and connection to nature. The act of nurturing plants and watching them grow became a source of relaxation and inspiration.
O’Neill emphasizes the importance of hands-on learning in gardening. While books and online resources can provide valuable information, he believes that nothing compares to the experience of physically planting and observing how different combinations of plants interact with each other. He credits his time volunteering at Great Dixter, under the guidance of Fergus Garrett, as well as his collaborations with designers Andy Sturgeon and Libby Russell, for shaping his understanding of planting design. These experiences allowed him to work with exceptional plantings and develop a keen eye for textures, tones, light, movement, scent, and seasonal changes in the garden.
He advocates for sustainable gardening practices, emphasizing the importance of planting in the right conditions to avoid waste and encourage healthy growth. O’Neill points out the common mistake of planting lavender in unsuitable soil, leading to its demise and unnecessary disposal. By understanding a plant’s needs and providing the appropriate environment, gardeners can minimize waste and contribute to a more sustainable approach.
O’Neill’s design philosophy is inspired by shady exotic and coastal planting styles. He favors a seamless, textured continuity with repeated plant use, natural tree forms, and subtle seasonal highlights. His approach incorporates elements of the unfamiliar, creating a sense of intrigue and discovery within the garden. He envisions plantings that appear to emerge organically from the surrounding landscape while enhancing architectural features with natural materials. He encourages aspiring gardeners to visit nurseries and plant fairs, tap into the knowledge of experienced growers, and trust their instincts when choosing plants. This hands-on approach, combined with careful observation and a willingness to experiment, allows for a creative and constantly evolving gardening practice.
