Poole's Chestnut Nursery Garden Centre Celebrates Record Growth

Chestnut Nursery in Poole, affectionately known as "the little garden centre with a big heart," is celebrating a remarkable 150% increase in sales since a major redevelopment in 2019 transformed the site into a modern horticultural haven.

Operated by the charity Plants and Minds, Chestnut Nursery supports adults with severe and enduring mental health conditions through horticultural therapy. Since its redevelopment, the number of service users—known as Team Members—progressing into paid work has soared by 300%.

Widely praised for its exceptional range of plants, stunning displays and expert advice, the nursery currently offers more than 50 voluntary work placements in a calm, pressure-free environment.

Originally established in 2001 on the former Poole Council nursery site next to Poole Park, Chestnut underwent a dramatic transformation in 2019. With help from local businesses and donors, the nursery reopened with a striking new 200-square-metre flagship store powered by renewable energy, alongside expanded retail and nursery areas totalling over 740 square metres.

Nursery Manager Andy Verreck credited the redevelopment with revitalising the project’s future. “None of this would have been possible without our supporters,” Andy said. “A huge thank you to our many customers, both trade and retail: their loyalty has ensured the continued success of the nursery.”

Despite the success, Andy highlighted the need for continued support, especially for the charity’s sister site, Cherry Tree Nursery in Bournemouth, which requires further investment.

“The redevelopment has enabled Chestnut to support our Team Members by delivering first-class training in professional horticulture and providing retail experience, while breaking down social isolation and engaging in a meaningful way with the wider community,” Andy explained. “The incredible achievements announced today are a direct result of our Team Members gaining valuable work experience and confidence at the nursery.”

To mark the six-year anniversary of the new store, Chestnut will host a special invite-only thank you event on Monday 7 July, bringing together supporters from across sectors to showcase the charity’s flagship operation.

Team Members themselves describe the nursery as life-changing. One said: “If I didn’t have Chestnut I would not be where I am mentally. The nursery gives me routine, structure and an opportunity to gain qualifications for paid work. I would not be alive if I was not here.”

Another shared: “At first, Chestnut was the only place I could manage to go to outside my house. The nursery is a restorative, tranquil oasis which soothes nerves, provides comfort and is a place for conversation with lovely people. It has done me so much good.”

A third added: “When I was at home every day, I was lonely, bored and my attitude was negative. Attending Chestnut gave me a reason to get out of bed. I now have a place to go to which supports my mental health and gives structure to my week. If you are having a bad day there’s no judgement, just support. I’ve been given the chance to rebuild my life.”

In 2024 alone, 25 people were referred to Chestnut through local health services, with 22 accepted into the programme—proof that the nursery continues to grow not just plants, but lives too.