Modern heroes of horticulture - Will Cronin, Excelsis Gardens
For Will Cronin, gardens have never just been a job. They have been a lifelong calling shaped by a love of the outdoors, a deep personal ethos, and a passion for creating beauty that stands the test of time.
As the founder of Excelsis Gardens, Will specialises in the skilled and often mesmerising art of topiary. His work focuses on shaping plants and shrubs into forms that bring structure, rhythm and visual clarity to outdoor spaces. From crisp, formal silhouettes to softer, more free-flowing shapes, his approach celebrates the power of plants to define how a garden feels and functions.
Will’s journey into horticulture began early. At just nine or ten years old, he started helping a local elderly neighbour with her garden, earning a few pounds and the occasional handful of sweets in return. What began as a small act of kindness soon sparked a deeper interest. Time spent outdoors, surrounded by plants and fresh air, planted the seed for what would become a lifelong career.
After studying horticulture at college and gaining practical experience in the industry, Will established his business in 2011. Since then, he has steadily built a reputation for craftsmanship, attention to detail and a genuine commitment to his clients’ gardens.
At the heart of his work lies a strong sense of purpose. Will speaks openly about how his Christian faith underpins his business values, shaping the way he approaches both his work and his relationships. Alongside this, his role as a husband and father provides daily motivation to grow a sustainable business that supports his family.
This personal drive is matched by a professional one. For Will, the greatest reward comes when clients step outside or look through their windows and see a garden transformed - structured, balanced and beautiful. It is this moment of connection between people and plants that fuels his dedication to getting every detail right.
Recently, Will has also gained wider recognition within the industry. He was selected as a Makita brand ambassador and has featured in a series of high-profile videos showcasing modern horticultural practice. While he remains grounded in the traditional skills of his craft, he embraces tools and techniques that allow him to push creative boundaries and bring ambitious designs to life.
Looking ahead, Will is focused not only on continuing to refine his own work but also on building stronger connections within the horticultural community. He hopes to encourage greater collaboration, conversation and shared learning across the industry - creating a supportive environment where both people and gardens can flourish.
Through his thoughtful approach to topiary and his commitment to purpose-driven practice, Will Cronin is helping to shape more than plants. He is shaping a vision of horticulture rooted in creativity, integrity and community.
