PROFILE I Jesus College Annual Report 2022
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A Life in the Day of a College Gardener Mike Morris My name is Michael Morris, most know me as Mike, Mick, Mickey or Mikey, or just by my blue Giants cap. I started here as an apprentice gardener in 1980. I love being outside, and when I was looking for work it was my dad’s suggestion to ask around the colleges. When I came for my interview, I couldn’t believe how big the gardens were. I was interviewed by Dr McKee, the College Steward, and afterwards by the Head Gardener at the time, Graham Payne. People were so kind and welcoming that I felt at home straight away. The team was Graham Payne, Neil Shaw, Mark Leavens, Nick Kingston and Ken Miller. Chris Mumford did the offsite properties and Albert Jolly was a groundsman. We got on well working together as a team. The first task I carried out alone was weeding the conifer beds along Pump Court (I guess they thought I couldn’t pull up anything I shouldn’t!). I went to Milton Farm School every week, but I found it difficult to master the theory side and to mix with other students. I’m happiest doing practical work, looking after nature and watching it flourish over the seasons. Over the years, I’ve learnt what needs to be done when. There are things to do all year round. Major jobs include the transition of the beds, mowing lawns and cutting edges. The shrubs need pruning, and the hedges need cutting. My favourite time of year is my birthday month of April. The bulbs come up and everything blooms; it’s a fresh start to a new year. I love the daffodils and the cow parsley in the woods. The wisteria in First Court is amazing when it comes into flower. The events keep us busy in June and July. It was great to have the May Ball back after three years. We work with the
May Ball committee to assist and help create a beautiful landscape for their event. One particular member of the May Ball committee this year was an absolute gem. After the Ball it’s time to clear up ready for Graduation Day. Visiting parents are always full of praise for our work, which is nice. They say how much they appreciate the grounds and environment and how lucky their children are to study here. My favourite areas are the Master’s Garden and West Court because they are private and enclosed, and have a nice, safe feel to them. The best part of the job is mowing stripes in the lawn. The roller pushes the nap of the green one way and then the other, which creates the illusion of light and dark green when the light catches it. It’s a skill you learn with experience. I was delighted when someone told me I’d been caught on camera this year mowing circles in First Court, then making a Union Jack in Chapel Court to celebrate the Queen’s Jubilee. I don’t use social media myself,
