5 questions with Stephen Briggs

How did you get in to horticulture? 

My introduction came at 16, when I started working part time at my local garden centre to earn some pocket money. Having thoroughly enjoyed it, on finishing school I enrolled at Moulton College and went on to gain a Horticulture degree at Nottingham Trent University. With an insight into various areas of the industry, including work experience at Old Trafford Cricket Ground, I knew ornamentals was where I wanted to be.   

What particularly interests you?  

I joined ICL in 2021 from Joseph Rochford Gardens, where I was an assistant nursery manager, and nursery stock remains a particular favourite. I am a strong believer in the industry transitioning to peat-free not only from an environmental perspective, but for the opportunities it gives UK growers to take a lead in sustainable growing.  

How has your transition gone from grower to adviser?  

I’m relishing working across a wide range of ornamental crops, applying my knowledge and practical experience to gain growers’ trust. With plenty of hands-on experience of Levington peat-reduced growing media and Osmocote controlled release fertilisers, this technical advisory role has broadened my knowledge to encompass new product ranges, such as water soluble fertilisers, and different production methods, such as air-pot systems. It’s good to keep learning. 

What particularly excites you in the UK industry?   

The opportunities to expand UK ornamental plant production to stem plant imports and meet consumer demand and that of green infrastructure projects. As to products, biostimulants are a pet subject having researched novel products for my university dissertation. These wide-ranging biorationals are set to play an important role in the production of quality plants for the future.    

At the end of the week, how do you unwind?  

I’m a live music fan and often head off to London, or Birmingham, to see bands like Oasis and the Courteeners, as well as other guitar-based indie rock and blues bands. I also enjoy playing cricket, golf and touch rugby – sport is particularly welcome after a week on the road.  Having recently moved to a new-build house in Northampton, I’m a regular at my local garden centre, buying plants for my first garden!   

Technical Area Sales Manger for Northern Home Counties, Stephen Briggs.