In this episode…
Our host, Adam Hompas, sits down with Peter Hum from Peter Christopher Gardens for an honest chat about career changes, starting a business, backing yourself, and the importance of doing the little things properly.
Peter shares how he moved from graphic design into horticulture after discovering that life behind a computer screen was not for him.
What began as a side job helping at a gardening business became an apprenticeship, a genuine passion for plants and soil, and, eventually, the launch of Peter Christopher Gardens in 2021.
The conversation explores the early realities of business ownership, from saying yes to too much, learning from underquoting, and adapting to a shifting market, through to building a trusted network of specialists and understanding where your own strengths sit.
Peter also speaks about his design process, his admiration for Japanese-inspired gardens, and how attention to detail continues to shape the way his team works.
A major focus of the episode is the Hawthorn garden project that became a turning point in Peter’s career.
After identifying serious soil and plant health issues, Peter undertook a complex restoration process that required technical knowledge, care, patience and persistence.
That project eventually led Peter to enter the Victorian Landscape Industry Awards and receive the Nick Van Diemen Award, giving him the confidence to keep levelling up his business.
It is a warm, practical, and reflective episode about craftsmanship, humility, growth, and the value of trusting your own abilities.
Key Takeaways
Career paths do not have to be linear.
Peter’s journey from graphic design to horticulture is a reminder that the skills you build in one industry can often shape your strength in another.
Apprenticeships can unlock confidence.
Peter’s experience at TAFE helped him realise he had found the right industry, particularly after being recognised as Apprentice of the Year early in his training.
Technical knowledge matters.
His understanding of soil, plant health and disease became critical in identifying and resolving serious issues in a large residential garden.
Good business often means knowing your lane.
Peter Christopher Gardens focuses on design, soft landscaping, and maintenance, while working with a trusted network of hardscapers, builders, and carpenters to bring projects to completion.
The client relationship is everything.
Peter places a strong focus on trust, communication and helping clients understand where their money is going, particularly when projects need to be staged.
Awards can be a powerful confidence builder.
Entering the Landscaping Victoria Awards gave Peter external validation for years of hard work and helped him see the value of his contribution to the industry.
The one percenters count.
Inspired by Japanese gardens, Peter’s approach centres on cleanliness, detail, practicality, and consistently doing the small things well.
🔔 Follow The Front Garden so you don’t miss any future episodes.
👁️🗨️ About Peter Hum & Peter Christopher Gardens
Got a suggestion for an episode of The Front Garden? Send us a text message!
Specifically designed for DIY Gardeners and Landscapers around the world. Designed with simple installation in mind, including; pre-drilled & prepared for assembly, no training or experience necessary. Straightcurve is surprisingly affordable compared to the alternatives, find your closest dealer here.
The Front Garden podcast is proudly presented by Landscaping Victoria, and is brought to you by Straightcurve, providers of premium steel edging solutions.
Visit Straightcurve to learn more at https://straightcurve.com/au/
From Graphic Design to Garden Design with Peter Hum | The Front Garden EP146
43:29