Clair from The Lauriston Blend has always harboured a profound connection with the earth and its cycles, a bond that has flourished alongside her, from her childhood days to the establishment of her property in the Macedon Ranges with aspirations of self-sufficiency. Her journey through the world of horticulture traces a transformative path from simple gardening to a lifestyle entrenched in the rhythms of nature. 

Her initial foray into gardening was inspired by a neighbour’s pumpkin that straddled their shared fence, "Growing up, our childhood neighbor had a pumpkin that grew over the fence" Clair reminisces. This early experience taught her valuable lessons about sharing, growth, and the genesis of her green thumb. 

Years later, the desire to elevate her gardening to a lifestyle of self-sufficiency prompted Clair and her partner to purchase their property. It was a pivotal moment that led her to seek formal education in horticulture. Opting for a diploma over a certificate, Clair unlocked a world brimming with opportunities. “I just thought I was going to learn to grow things better. But instead, I realised that there's no limit to what you can achieve within the horticultural space. It's as big as your imagination," she states. This educational pursuit shattered her preconceived notions of horticulture, propelling her into a vast realm where creativity meets cultivation. 

Clair’s journey was not without its challenges, particularly in learning to navigate the whims of Mother Nature. Understanding the intricacies of growing seasons, soil health, and plant varieties required adaptability and resilience. "The hardest thing to navigate," she acknowledges, "is the growing seasons and the soil." This realisation underscores the dynamic relationship between gardener and garden, a continuous dance with the elements.

Clair’s achievements, including her participation in the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show, underscore her innovative approach to garden design. Clair’s philosophy reshapes conventional views of gardens, transforming them into canvases of colour, texture, and tone. "As a photographer," she explains, "I think that I look at tone, texture, and colours, and it's really painting with plants." This unique perspective marries her love for photography with her passion for gardening, enabling her to inspire others through her work. 

Clair's aspiration to author a book marries her twin passions for gardening and photography, aiming to inspire others to explore the world of horticulture. Her affinity for roses, with their evocative fragrances and stunning beauty, speaks to the emotional depth of her gardening philosophy. "Roses are my favourite flowers," she muses, emphasising their power to evoke profound memories and emotions. 

Clair's story is more than a narrative of gardening; it's a testament to the transformative power of horticulture. From a child marvelling at a neighbour’s pumpkin to a visionary reshaping perceptions of garden design, her journey illustrates the limitless potential from learning to grow. 

The Lauriston Blend 
Horticulturalist, Farmgate, flowers & education 

@the_lauriston_blend

thelauristonblend.com