Tributes to gardener Adam, who dies aged 27
He started his first allotment aged just 11 and began a business selling hanging baskets and plants at school.
Adam Greathead may have left school with no formal training, but he quickly developed a career in gardening.
His work since from his base in Stourbridge has been inspirational, and his untimely death at the age of 27 has left a big hole.
He died at his home on October 29. Black Country Coroners office is yet to open an inquest.
He was chairman of Wollaston Gardeners Guild, and before that he was appointed secretary of the West Midlands branch of the National Vegetable Society.
But he may most be remembered for the gardens he created.
One was a public garden called Duck's Pool in Stourbridge, which opened for events to raise money for charity.
The other was John's Garden - the garden of Ashwood Nurseries owner John Massey, who appointed him as his own head gardener.
An extension to the garden, which will now be renamed Adam's Garden, was to be opened for charity events.
The three-acre piece of land, situated behind the nurseries in Kingswinford, will open on February 10.
Mr Massey said: "There can be no doubt that Adam had the most promising future ahead of him and his death is the cruellest of blows, not only to me and the Ashwood team but to the world of horticulture.
"We offer our deepest sympathy to his parents John and Gay, their loss is unimaginable."
He added: "We had so many plans, so much we were going to do together, so many gardens to visit; I thought we had lots more time; but we will still keep gardening together, keep visiting our friends and enjoying their gardens, because Adam will always be with me in my heart."
Adam attended Hagley Catholic High School.
He was awarded the Princess Diana Memorial Award in 2005.
The award honours children who inspire the lives of others in the classroom and community.
After opening Duck Pool garden, which is in Stourbridge Road.
He said: "Escape the hustle and bustle of urban surroundings and enter a place where dreams come true. Visit the secret bothy under the enchantment of the green man.
"Leave your troubles behind and relax in our horticultural heaven. Where the senses are heightened and all that was impossible soon becomes possible."
Adam's funeral will take place at our Lady and All Saints Catholic Church in New Road, Stourbridge on November 30, at 11am.
A wake will take place at the tea room at Ashwood Nurseries.
