The Serge Hill Project for Gardening, Creativity and Health is a not-for-profit initiative based on the understanding that working with nature can radically transform people’s lives.
Located in Hertfordshire on the site of an old orchard with the beautiful Apple House at its centre and a unique collection of plants called The Plant Library, the project offers resources to local schools, community groups, youth organisations and mental health charities.
Our community programme fosters social inclusion through nature connection, gardening and other forms of creativity. We also run an innovative programme of public events, workshops and talks, which along with grants and donations help to support our work.
‘Gardening is unique amongst the creative therapies in drawing on the power of nature’s growth and in the extent to which it brings together the emotional, physical, social, vocational and spiritual aspects of life.
Some of the benefits of gardening derive from the focus on caring for plants, others from the direct influence of green nature on our nervous systems. The safe green space of a garden is calming which reduces stress and helps promote human connection.’
— Sue Stuart-Smith
Spend the day in the award-winning Apple House for a wonderful day learning the craft of weaving a beautiful 5ft willow plant support with award-winning contemporary basket maker, Hazel Godfrey.
This beginners’ willow workshop will teach you two weaving techniques and a style of binding for making a useful structure for your garden. You will make a 5ft teepee style support ideal for creating height in pots or garden borders. These supports work brilliantly with plants such as climbing nasturtium, runner beans, sweet peas, hops and clematis and if cared for, will last a number of years.
Finish the day with your own very beautiful willow support to take home and the skills and confidence to weave with willow again in the future.
Limited to 8 places only.
Support Us
The benefits of green spaces and connecting to nature are increasingly recognised, yet many people lack the opportunity to interact with the natural world. The Serge Hill Project provides a vital resource for those who might otherwise have little access to nature and gardening.
Within the one acre site, in addition to The Plant Library and The Apple House, there are vegetable beds, plots for schools and therapeutic groups, a garden shelter and a pond. Regardless of age or prior knowledge of gardening, our participants and visitors can all experience the mental, physical and social benefits of time spent in close proximity to nature
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