A MAN who helped King Charles plant a tree is now opening a new gardening shop in Wyke.
Gary Robertson previously worked for The Royal Parks before moving to Wyke four years ago.
The 45-year-old has now turned his frustration with the lack of gardening shops into an opportunity to run his own business.
Gardening store Laurel & Hebe, found on Town Gate in Wyke, will open on Monday, July 24.
Gary said: “I was really frustrated, there weren’t any gardening shops when I moved here and when the shop went up, I decided I was going to open up.
“We’ve gone with quite a rustic design, as we use a lot of recycled and reclaimable wood as Its in my ethos to be green and good to the environment.
“We really thought about how we filled out the space."
Laurel and Hebe are two hardy shrubs that play a central role in a lot of Gary’s arrangements.
Those who plant Hebes can expect to see bushy evergreen shrubs with flowers in the summer months.
Meanwhile Laurel - a popular choice for hedging - is an evergreen tree or large shrub with smooth leaves.
"They play a big part in my garden designs, so thought it would be a good name," he said.
“Laurel and Hebe have always been a part of my life.
“People say, it sounds like Laurel and Hardy, but I didn’t really think of that at the time.”
Gary says he moved to Bradford for his ‘sanity’ as well as being closer to his family.
He said: “My partner thinks it’s really brilliant what I’m doing and he’s really proud of me.”
Gary’s love for plants and gardening was enhanced by his apprenticeship at The Royal Parks, where he brushed shoulders with royals and participated in planting ceremonies.
He said: “I met Prince Michael of Kent and helped the then Prince Charles, plant a tree.
“It was about 20 years ago, and they pick one apprentice to help and, I got picked.
“We didn’t speak or anything, but it was still nice to be involved.”
“My time at The Royal Parks is the reason I don’t know the common name for plants. I only use the scientific ones.”
The charming shop is filled with lush green plants, against hardwood shelves.
Customers can expect a mix of houseplants and outdoor plants.
“I’m really excited about opening," Gary said.
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