Rapkyns Nursery is an independent, family run nursery, specialising in cottage garden plants, based between Mayfield and Heathfield in East Sussex.
They have been growing plants in an idyllic country setting for over 30 years and in that time, have amassed an extensive range of usual and unusual varieties. You will find many shrubs, climbers and perennials as well as a huge collection of Salvias, for which Rapkyns Nursery is well known.
At Rapkyns Nursery, the ethos is that with a bit of careful planning, a colourful, year-round garden, can easily be achieved.
Rapkyns Nursery was started by plant enthusiast, Steven Moore, who was always determined to have his own nursery. When he had the chance to buy a plot of land on the Rapkyns Estate near Horsham, it really was a dream come true.
However, as the business grew, that first plot of land was not big enough to run as a full-time nursery, so Steven’s Uncle Dennis offered him a piece of land on his farm near Mayfield, East Sussex. To honour those humble beginnings, Steven brought the Rapkyns name with him.
Morag Hockin joined Steven when he moved to the new site in Street End Lane, bringing her enthusiasm for all things horticultural. Together they have created a friendly and welcoming nursery with a beautiful collection of quality plants.
In April 2022 Steven was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease. At that time several customers volunteered to help and support Steven and Morag, allowing Steven to continue playing an active role in running the nursery, in spite of his failing health. Sadly, Steven passed away on Christmas Eve, 2023.
The future of Rapkyns Nursery is secure in the hands of Morag who continues to grow the wide range of beautiful cottage garden plants that Rapkyns is so well known for.
Morag is a passionate plantswoman and can draw on her extensive horticultural knowledge to suggest plants that would be suitable for any garden situation. She is also more than happy to advise on how to grow and take care of them.
As well as visiting the nursery, you can find the popular Rapkyns Nursery plant stall at many events, including local plant fairs and National Garden Scheme open gardens. Check out social media or phone for details.