Surrounded by huge trees and kept lush by the stream which flows past, this tranquil setting provides the perfect environment for Richard Saul to allow his inspiration to flow freely, as it also provides excellent growing conditions for the seedlings which emerge.

It looks just like any other nursery, but here is where the Big Sky Echinaceas were conceived.

This part of the world enjoys long, sunny summers and the altitude of the site takes the edge of the heat and humidity so prevalent in Atlanta. The result is a long season for plants to grow and bloom and be scrutinised for their qualities.

The surrounding indigenous plants often have a role to play as Richard uses them to add strength to cultivated varieties.

It’s here that the Big Sky Echinaceas were conceived as were the many other plants raised under Richard’s wing.  

Bobby and Richard relax in the nursery's 'boardroom' on a shady deck by the river

However, it has been known for the plants to take a back stage while partying takes front stage, with the brothers throwing huge parties here for their friends in the plant business. “We used to hold them every year”, says Bobby, “but once it got to the stage where we had 1200 people we had to stop doing it as it became too dangerous!”