It was in 1985 that I made the decision to move to Lorgues, to a hill covered in pines and olive trees. I had been stunned by the richness and diversity of the plants of the Region.

In that period, holiday homes were rare. For shade, we planted a large tree close to our house and cabin and we exchanged irises with our neighbours. Under the brilliant sky, the vineyards and perfumed pines were all that were needed to fill the inhabitants with a sense of well-being.

After that, awareness of the attractions of the area spread far and wide. A new population arrived for regular holidays or to establish a home, turning the garden into a space for new leisure activities. The swimming pool, for example, in apparent conflict with the natural environment, needed to be integrated into the landscape. To do that, it seemed to me to be essential to increase the range of ornamental plants available, utilising plants from other parts of the world with the same climate. Though the specialist reviews of the period showed dream gardens, most of them were by the sea where the climate was different or, alternatively, presented plants that were difficult to find.

To satisfy the particular needs of the local area, I threw myself into the cultivation of shrubs and perennials that would survive the dryness, the cold and the lime of the soil.

This enabled me to establish close links with others who are impassioned by plants and always on the look out for new discoveries, who meet together at exhibitions or at visits to gardens.

I now devote my time to creating gardens, always looking to include new plants adapted to the region.

Since 2001, I have organised each spring, in Lorgues, an exhibition and sale of plants suitable for inland Var: a convivial day when those who love gardens and those who are exhibiting their recent discoveries can meet each other.

To be informed about future events,click here.