About

A Brief History

Cotswold Garden Flowers was established in 1990 when Bob Brown purchased an acre of land in Badsey, on the edge of the picturesque Cotswolds. Originally intended for use as a burial ground, this plot has since flourished into one of the UK's most renowned nurseries, offering an extraordinary collection of unique and unusual perennials.

Laying The Foundations

When Bob acquired the land, it had been stripped of its topsoil 21 years earlier. Undeterred by the heavy clay left behind, he imported 70 tonnes of mushroom compost to restore the soil, transforming it into a fertile ground that now supports a vast array of exceptional plants.

Committed to Sustainability

At Cotswold Garden Flowers, environmental responsibility is at the heart of everything we do. Our entire nursery operates peat-free, a decision that not only supports our plants but also protects vital ecosystems. Peat bogs are crucial for capturing and storing carbon, and by refusing to use peat, we contribute to reducing carbon emissions while encouraging sustainable gardening practices.

Moreover, we are proud to be completely off-grid, generating all of our electricity from renewable sources such as solar and wind power. By relying on clean, green energy, we significantly reduce our environmental impact and set an example of sustainability in horticulture. Our commitment to renewable energy goes hand in hand with our dedication to providing the highest quality plants in the most eco-friendly way possible.

The Present and Beyond

Today, Bob works alongside his son, Edmund Brown, and together they oversee one of the largest collections of unique plants for sale in Europe. With over 80 years of combined specialist plant knowledge, the Browns are dedicated to curating a collection that offers rare and unusual species to suit all types of gardeners, from enthusiasts to professionals. Most of our plants are propagated on-site, ensuring they are well-suited to local conditions and ready to thrive in your garden.

Ed, a specialist in Sambucus, has built a National Collection and continues to breed new hybrids, regularly appearing on television to share his knowledge. He also runs Just Must Perennials, supplying plug plants to the trade, with select lines now available to the public through our website.

A New, User-Friendly Website

To make it easier than ever for our customers to browse and buy plants, we’ve launched a new and improved website. Designed with simplicity and functionality in mind, our site offers detailed plant descriptions and an intuitive shopping experience. With secure payments and reliable shipping, you can now explore and purchase from one of Europe’s largest collections of unique plants, all from the comfort of your home.

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