Wiltshire plant collector Tom Mitchell has sold his specialist nursery so that he can devote more time to the exploration of exotic plants…

Former banker Mitchell says he has not been able to make a commercial success of Evolution Plants but believes the new owners, a young couple, have a business plan that will work.

The couple, Mr & Mrs Macdougall, plan to continue as wholesale suppliers of perennials from the 11.5-acre nursery at Bradford-on-Avon.

Mitchell writes on his Facebook page: “I know that a lot of supporters of Evolution Plants are disappointed that I haven't been able to make it work. In truth, I'm a terrible businessman and a terrible nurseryman. I love seeing plants in their native habitats. I love talking about them with fellow enthusiasts. I love writing about them and I love giving them away. But selling plants just isn't my thing. Sorry.”

He has found new homes (including Hilliers gardens) for most of his plant collections but will be keeping a selection of favourites.

The nursery sale was handled by agents Alexander Mackie Associates.