Gardening advice rooted in the south-east
The Garden Survival Guide is written by Gabrielle Argent —qualified landscape garden designer, 2026 LCGD graduate, and RHS Level 2 with Merit. Every tip is grounded in RHS guidance and written for the conditions of Kent and Sussex.
London College of Garden Design
2026 graduate of the London College of Garden Design
RHS
RHS Level 2 with Merit
Kent & Sussex
Designing for the soils, climate and conditions of the south-east
About Gabrielle Argent
My name is Gabrielle Argent, and I founded Argent Landscape Garden Designs to create outdoor spaces which are beautiful, sustainable, and genuinely useful to the people who spend time in them. I hold RHS Level 2 with Merit and graduated from the London College of Garden Design in 2026.
Before starting my design practice, I made and curated glass sculptures to exhibit at Sussex Prairie Garden and the RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2022 — an experience that gave me a strong sense of how gardens, planting, art and atmosphere can work together. I am particularly interested in therapeutic horticulture, sensory planting, and gardening for wildlife.
I started the Garden Survival Guide because the south-east is changing. Summers are hotter and drier, hosepipe bans are becoming routine, and gardeners need practical, locally relevant advice.
My approach
Expert advice
Every tip references current RHS best practise and design principles taught by experts in their field. We also monitor plant trials at Wisley — conditions closely comparable to our own region.
Locally specific
Tips are suitable for Kent and Sussex gardeners primarily. That means chalk soils, Wealden clay, coastal conditions, water restrictions, and the specific microclimates of the south-east.
Sustainability and biodiversity
Gardens should feel considered, restorative and rooted in nature. We work with homeowners and health providers, guided by sustainability, biodiversity, and a belief that outdoor spaces can genuinely improve wellbeing.
Climate-forward
My advice reflects the south-east's increasingly dry, hot summers and warmer, wetter winters, aiming to help you future-proof your outdoor spaces.
Work with me
If you'd like professional help with your own garden — from a full design to a planting consultation — I'd be glad to talk.
Visit argentgardendesigns.comGarden design
Full design service from initial survey through to planting plan and contractor management. We work with gardens of all sizes across Kent and Sussex. Other areas by arrangement.
Planting consultations
Time is money and we charge for our time and expertise. After an initial telephone conversation about your requirements, we can discuss fees and visits.
Soil assessments
We test your soil, identify its type and pH, and give you a written report with specific recommendations for your conditions.
Trained & affiliated
