A man who spent his 20s building his dream garden instead of going out says he 'does not regret it for a second'.

Ross Lee, 33 - who says gardening 'saved his life' - uses his online platform to raise awareness and inspire others to take up the nature-inspired hobby and lifestyle.

The garden designer - who runs his own business 'Ross-Lee Garden Design & Maintenance' - started his gardening journey back in 2015.

He moved into his first home after years of being homeless and living in and out of youth hostels.

Ross said: "Gardening saved my life as it gave me something to focus on."

"Now I am thriving just like my plants!"

"I spent my 20s building my dream garden instead of going out, and I wouldn't change a thing."

"My garden is a safe space - my own peaceful haven."

After Ross secured his own garden, he recalls watching YouTube videos to find ideas on how to make it flourish.

He started by adding different plants - such as Trachycarpus and tree ferns and removing the lawn.

Ross, who lives in Gislingham, Suffolk, said that by the following spring, his plants had blossomed and were everywhere.

He then acquired a geodome - which provides an ideal environment for plants to grow in because its shape helps with temperature regulation.

Ross also added a pond and statues to his garden that fit his aesthetic - and realised he had found his passion in horticulture and garden design after turning his back garden into an oasis in just 10 months.

Ross explained that he was so inspired he decided to open his garden up for the national garden scheme, and went on to the popular TV show 'Gardeners world'.

Ross said this gave him the confidence he needed to start his own gardening business, and after sharing his story on social media (@Rossleegardener) the video of his garden transformation went viral.

Ross said: "My story went viral reaching people all over the world who share my passion for gardening! "

"The gardening community is just so welcoming and we all have one thing in common: our love for horticulture! "

He said that it is never too late for anyone to start gardening.

Ross added: "For anyone struggling, please don't give up. "

"You never know what's round the corner."

You can follow Ross here: Rossleegardendesign.co.uk