Those experiences taught him that successful gardens begin with understanding place. A plant that thrives on a ski slope may fail on a valley floor. A species that struggles in a coastal garden may flourish in the dry interior. Climate, soils, exposure, elevation, and ecology all matter.

His interest in plants and landscapes was shaped by a Geography degree from Simon Fraser University and horticultural training at the Pacific Horticulture College in Victoria. Over time, that interest evolved into a fascination with the world's mountains, steppes, deserts, and the plants that inhabit them.

The gardens featured on this website represent decades of experimentation with native and non-native plants, many grown from seed and selected for their ability to thrive under challenging conditions. Along the way, he has learned as much from failures as successes.

Today, Jay's interests include dryland and rock gardening, propagation, habitat creation, native plants, and the relationship between gardens and the landscapes that surround them.

He is a regular speaker for the North American Rock Garden Society and its chapters, local garden clubs, and horticultural organizations, and a former President and sitting board member of the Alpine Garden Club of British Columbia.

Through Jay Akerley Consulting, he shares practical guidance on dryland gardens, habitat, and plants for place.