A budding businesswoman has embarked on a mission to turn Waltham Forest into the leafiest corner of east London.

From today, mother-of-one Anne Marie Stevens will set up shop in the pop-up store in Hoe Street, Walthamstow, selling and educating people about how to make the most of their own green space.

Plant Nation is offering evening classes for adults and day time activities for children, as well as selling a selection of flowers.

Ms Stevens, 41, of Grange Park Road, Leyton, says she hopes to brighten up the area.

She said: “It’s a fantastic part of London but could be even better.

“I want to mobilise the local community and get them to improve and enjoy their outside space. Waltham Forest is a large residential area with massive potential and I know there are loads of people who want to do something with their garden but don’t know where to start.”

“If we can help educate people we could transform the area and that’s why I’m running evening classes and the advice session for adults and daytime activity sessions for children.

“Ultimately, I want to help create an even better environment for my young daughter to grow up in.”

As shop will open at the same time as the Chelsea Flower Show, Plant Nation has joined up with the Chelsea Fringe Festival for a free evening event on May 27, offering a 15 minute one-to-one advice session with a range of gardeners and designers who will be in the shop.

Ms Stevens was inspired by a visit to the Botanical Gardens in Melbourne whilst on holiday in Australia and went on to complete a foundation degree in Garden Design in Practice at Capel Manor, Enfield.

Plant Nation will sell a wide variety of herbaceous perennials, as well as a range of shrubs, herbs, vegetables, alpines and annuals.

For more details on the shop and classes, click here.

The shop will be open until June 15.