[2] Walkden trained at the Lancashire College of Agriculture (now known as Myerscough College) and then worked at two experimental horticultural stations, before moving to the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew based at Wakehurst Place, where she looked after the growing side of the seed physiology unit.
After several more jobs she undertook a career change and became a freelance horticulturist, lecturing nationally and internationally.
In 1993, Walkden's book, The Houseplant Almanac, was published, and in 2007 A Year in Christine's Garden – The Secret Diary of a Garden Lover was published to accompany the television series.
[3] Walkden also appeared as a guest on the December 2008 special of Shooting Stars.
[4] Walkden is a regular contributor to Jersey Choice Plants and Quality Garden Tools.