Earlier this year, experienced nurseryman Steve Chapman joined our expanding team as technical area sales manager for the Home Counties in the South East. Here we find out a little about his horticultural heritage and how he is finding the switch from overseeing the production of more than 3,500 lines of quality nursery stock to role of ICL advisor and sales professional.

Where did your love of horticulture come from? 

I have been very fortunate to grow up with horticulture in the blood.  My 93 year old grandmother is still a very keen and active gardener and she passed on her love and passion to my father, who spent 50 years within the industry growing hardy nursery stock amongst others.  After the dreams of being an astronaut had faded away, I never dreamt of doing anything else other than following in the footsteps of the generations before me.

My father passed on every bit of passion needed for me to put my heart and soul into making a career in horticulture, I am very grateful to him and all that this amazing industry has given me in return.

How are you enjoying switching from grower to sales adviser? 

The move so far has been great and very enjoyable.  I am working for an incredible company with amazing products, which I have used and believed in throughout my career. Being able to discuss the practical benefits of them to other growers is something I am finding hugely rewarding.  

What are you enjoying most about your new role with ICL? 

I have really loved getting out and about around the country and meeting people within the industry.  There are so many passionate and likeminded people out there, going about their normal lives who love to share their experiences and knowledge with others. I can’t think of many industries where people are so happy to talk to others about what they know.

What is your favourite ornamental crop and why? 

This is a hard question to answer.  Some of my favourite looking crops over the years have been pushed down the list as once I started growing them I soon started to fall out with their fussy needs.  That said, I am always drawn and amazed by the Monkey Puzzle tree (Araucaria araucana). This can be a hard crop to grow in containers, but once in the ground it is much easier and a truly amazing looking tree like no other.

How do you relax? 

Relaxing is not something that comes easy when having a young family. I have two teenage girls and two boys that are just starting out at school so life can be hectic at times, but they also give me so much joy and pleasure, so when you have a minute to take a step back it all seems worthwhile!