Style Observer Gardening (SOG) returns to the garden of engineer Melbourne Gordon, whose upper St Andrew home represents a seamless marriage of his Westmoreland upbringing and the agricultural foundations fostered at The Mandeville School in Aylesbury, UK.

The result is a flourishing sanctuary where hidden gems of flora and produce thrive in harmony — from orchids and roses to towering breadfruit and banana trees.

Gordon’s deeply involved approach to his garden is no surprise, providing the ideal setting for both personal reflection and bonding with his plants. He doesn’t just enjoy the results; he is in love with the process, which inspires him to maintain his oasis.

“To me, my garden is a restorative retreat. I take great pleasure in the diverse textures and colours of my collection, and I find that a bit of conversation with the plants only adds to the tranquillity of the experience,” Gordon says. “There is a deep joy in the beautification of my garden. From tending regular blooms to perfecting the lawn, the results fill me with a sense of pride that keeps me motivated.”

The principles Gordon mastered at The Mandeville School garden remain the cornerstone of his current practice; chief among them is the understanding that a garden’s success is rooted in the quality of its soil.

“You have to take care of the ground first. You have to plough the ground [properly], so that the roots can penetrate easily. In those early stages, when the soil is young and being used for the first or second time, there is no need for heavy fertilising; the earth is already primed for growth,” Gordon suggests. A key piece of advice he also offers, is to avoid overwatering as excessive moisture often results in root rot.

“One of the most important things is to keep the soil moist, not too wet. It’s about allowing moisture every so often to allow the water to penetrate easily,” Gordon says.

For those aspiring to emulate Gordon’s success, his philosophy is simple: The best results come from a genuine love for the work and keen attentiveness to everyday care.

“A garden can only flourish when it is nurtured with heart. As your garden develops, it’s important to stay alert. Regular care — from pest prevention to soil maintenance — is what truly allows a plant to thrive,” Gordon advises.

Photographer: Garfield Robinson

Soap aloe (Photo: Garfield Robinson)

Ixora coccinea (Photo: Garfield Robinson)

Damask rose (Photo: Garfield Robinson)

Hibiscus (Photo: Garfield Robinson)

Crotons (Photo: Garfield Robinson)

Bougainvillea (Photo: Garfield Robinson)

Bananas (Photo: Garfield Robinson)

Madagascar periwinkle (Photo: Garfield Robinson)

Plumbago auriculata (Photo: Garfield Robinson)