GTN Xtra had the opportunity this morning to meet Dobbies CEO, David Robinson at their Brighton Garden Centre which has undergone a facelift, including reopening areas that had previously been closed off to create a bigger retailing area and increased food and drink offerings.  See our photo tour of the centre below and read the full interview in the May issue of GTN magazine.

Towards the end of our walk around the centre I asked David about his views of garden centre retailing since he joined them in Juy 2023 having previously been at Pets at Home, Argos and Homebase: "The things that attracted me to the business [Dobbies] remain true. Which is garden centres are just a lovely way of people spending time. And I genuinely think it is a really good model for the future of retail because it's part experiential, part service, part retail. And I think that's where retail is going in general. So I really like the garden centre sector.

"Having competed a lot with Amazon and online, it's much harder for pure play to disrupt a garden centre. Just the sociability of it, the browse-ability of it. And some of the products don't fit through the supply chain as well. So it's got really good fundamentals because the market's been growing. We use our gardens for more things than we ever used to. So actually good fundamentals. A model that works for the 21st century.

"I really like the scale and the brand of Dobbies. When I was coming in, [July 2023] I could see that there were things I could get after. There were retailing things that would make me annoyed as I went round stores and we've had to do a bit more tidying up than I'd anticipated. But we've done that and all of the opportunity and probably more stands ahead of us. Great people. Great brand. Good loyal customers. And a lot of the things we're doing are just good, sensible retailing principles.

"I think the core business has been underinvested. And the real opportunity is to drive the core business, as you see today in Brighton. We've got a pretty ambitious five year plan. We've got lots of thoughts. But for now, we've got to run stores well. That's what I've told the team. And then that buys us opportunities to do lots of other things afterwards. But at this stage, run the stores well."

Read the full interview in the May issue of Garden Trade News magazine.

Squire’s Garden Centres has appointed Sam Dickson to the role of Managing Director. She will join the business on 23 June and will take over from Squire’s current MD, Martin Breddy who retires in July. 

Sam joins Squire’s having spent her retail career in Senior and Board roles at Sainsburys, B&Q, Waitrose and most recently Asda where she was VP for Own Brand and Acting Chief Customer Officer.

Sarah Squire, Chairman, Squire’s Garden Centres, comments: “Sam’s extensive experience across a wide range of sectors and her passion for retail will be invaluable as we look to the future of Squire’s. Sam’s career has seen her lead categories including Food, Non-Food, Home, Gardening and Outdoors, across multiple retailers. She brings a wealth of expertise and knowledge to our business and I am very much looking forward to her joining us in June.

“I would also like to express my sincere thanks to Martin for his outstanding contribution and thoughtful guidance over the past nine years, during which we navigated the many challenges brought by the pandemic and grew our business with the acquisition of further centres. We wish him all the very best for his retirement.”

Sam Dickson comments: “I am delighted to be joining the Squire’s family business. It is rich in heritage, with strong expertise, supported by amazing people and underpinned by a well-loved brand. I can’t wait to get started and I am very much looking forward to working with the teams, suppliers and industry bodies, for the benefit of all our colleagues, our customers and our local communities.” 

A keen gardener, Sam lives in Hampshire with her family.

Through a brilliant collaboration, Somerset’s leading peat-free compost producer, RocketGro, is on board as headline sponsor of the first-ever Yeo Valley Organic Garden Festival this September – a celebration of sustainability, soil and spectacular gardening.  

The theme of the event strikes a chord with RocketGro, as the festival – also in Somerset – is geared towards inspiring people to ‘get greener in the garden’, with a focus on topics, such as soil health, biodiversity and sustainability.

A stellar line up of speakers has already garnered attention, with Arit Anderson set to hold a talk themed on gardening for the climate, whilst Alys Fowler will discuss perennial vegetables that promote a healthy ecosystem, and many more.

Keen to support a fellow Somerset business and always on a mission to get people gardening in a more environmentally-friendly way, RocketGro relished the opportunity to be the headline sponsor of this brand-new event.

With the two companies a natural fit, thanks to their commitment to organic gardening and sustainable practises, Yeo Valley Organic expressed its pleasure at garnering support from a like-minded local brand.

Sarah Mead, Head Gardener at Yeo Valley Organic Garden said: “Yeo Valley Organic is delighted that we have the support of local brand, RocketGro, a brand with brilliant sustainable products that we already use in the garden. Their ethos for environment-first products aligns with that of the Yeo Valley Organic Garden, and it’s a pleasure to have them on this journey with us. A big thank you to RocketGro for supporting our first ever Garden Festival. May the relationship grow from strength to strength!”

Toby Thomas, Managing Director at RocketGro commented: “We are really excited about the first-ever Yeo Valley Organic Garden Festival and are absolutely thrilled to be a part of it. We had already forged a connection between our two organisations, as Yeo Valley Organic uses our peat-free, organic products on their garden in Blagdon. So, when they approached us about supporting this fantastic event, we jumped at the chance.”

Announcing the launch of the garden Festival in February, Head Gardener, Sarah Mead also set out Yeo Valley Organic’s intention to “ditch the formalities and the ‘one size fits all’ approach to organic gardening” with this event and, instead, provide visitors with “myth-busting, jargon-breaking, real-life practical solutions,” designed to suit every garden and every budget.

This aspect of the show is another reason RocketGro was keen to show its support, as Toby Thomas explains: “RocketGro is very much about making gardening accessible and we love that, not only is this exciting new horticultural festival set to take place in a region we are extremely proud of, but also that Yeo Valley Organic is seeking to cut through the jargon that can put some gardeners off. Events like this are the lifeblood of our industry and are an important way to support and inspire gardeners of all skillsets.”

The news comes hot on the heels of RocketGro’s recent appearance in the first of the Peat-free Partnership’s brand-new ‘Hort Shorts’ series, which puts the spotlight on peat-free success stories from within the industry.

The Yeo Valley Organic Garden Festival will take place on 18th-20th September at Blagdon. All ages are welcome, with ticket prices starting from £24 for an adult one-day pass. For more information or to book your tickets, visit the website.

Find out more

If you want to learn more about RocketGro or are keen to discuss adding its product portfolio into your 2025 offering, please contact Toby Thomas (hello@rocketgro.co.uk /07936 928 981) or Andy Abraham (andy@rocketgro.co.uk / 07446 937902). View the full range and discover more about the RocketGro story at www.rocketgro.co.uk

British gardening brand Heart of Eden has announced the appointment of Kaz Edwards as National Accounts Manager, reinforcing the company’s commitment to a peat-free future and expanding its footprint across the UK garden retail sector. 

Kaz joins the company from Southern Trident, bringing with her a wealth of experience in the horticultural industry and a strong track record in the peat-free market. Her appointment marks a significant milestone in Heart of Eden's 2025 strategy to accelerate growth and meet increasing consumer demand for sustainable, high-performance compost solutions. 

“We're paving the way for a greener future in gardening and I am incredibly excited to be part of the Heart of Eden family,” said Kaz.

"Heart of Eden's commitment to sustainability, quality, and innovation aligns perfectly with my own values and contributing my expertise to help [Heart of Eden] continue their mission of providing eco-friendly, peat-free solutions for gardeners across the UK is an exciting prospect."

In her new role, Kaz will focus on building strategic partnerships with national retailers, ensuring they have access to Heart of Eden's innovative product range-including new lines launching later this year.

With sustainability at the core of the brand, her leadership will help position Heart of Eden as a go-to choice for eco-conscious gardeners and forward-thinking retailers alike.

The appointment comes as the UK gardening industry continues to shift toward peat-free alternatives, with both legislative changes and consumer expectations driving rapid change in the market. Heart of Eden remains committed to delivering products that not only perform exceptionally well but also protect the planet.

Altico Garden Products have been busy providing retailers with a compelling Aggregate offer with their excitingFlash Pack Range, a value-packed offering that promises to transform garden centre Aggregate sales. Designed to attract customers and boost in-store engagement, this exclusive Buy 2, Get 1 Free promotion provides unbeatable value for garden retailers across six best-selling lines.

A Comprehensive Range of Quality Aggregates

Known for their production of decorative Aggregates, Altico is a family run business and proud National supplier of Landscape and Garden products. With a variety of Chippings, Slates & Pebbles supplied from the state-of-the-art bagging, washing and distribution facility in the UK, Altico offer high stock holdings and guaranteed same-week delivery to garden centre’s wishing to stock their range.

The Aggregate Flash Pack range features a carefully curated selection of six top-tier products to suit various gardening and landscaping projects. This includes four popular Aggregate options, Cotswold Stone, Dove Grey Chippings, Blue Slate & Tweed Pebbles. Joining these volume lines are two Premium Aggregate products, Alpine Blue Chippings and Silver Frost Chippings. With these options in the Buy 2, Get 1 Free offer, retailers have the opportunity increase basket spend and volume on premium products.

Each product is expertly formulated to meet the diverse needs of gardening enthusiasts and professional landscapers alike. Priced from £6.99 per bag, the Buy 2 Get 1 Free offer encourages volume purchases for a range of gardening projects.

Strong Support with Point-of-Sale Materials

The Flash Pack offer aims to significantly increase sales and cash margins for garden centres. Perfect for maximising sales from the store entrance, Altico offers a full suite  of point-of-sale (POS) materials that enable retailers to showcase this incredible deal effectively. The support includes:

• Bold, Professional Signage: Eye-catching displays to draw customer attention to the offer.
• User-Friendly Guides: Informative materials to help shoppers select the right aggregate for their projects.
• Pallet Displays: Attractive, practical merchandising solutions that simplify browsing and drive sales.

Altico’s POS resources are designed to seamlessly integrate with instore layout, ensuring the Aggregate Flash Pack range becomes a focal point for customers.

Bags More Sales, Bags More Value

Altico Garden Products is dedicated to supporting its retail partners with innovative, consumer-focused offerings. The Aggregate Flash Pack range not only enhances product selection but also increases footfall and average basket size, driving profitability.

The Aggregate Flash Pack range will provide your customers with ‘bags more’ value and elevate their gardening projects! Take advantage of this outstanding opportunity to deliver exceptional value to your customers while bolstering sales.

Get in touch with Altico’s team today to learn more - salesoffice@altico.co.uk.

Garden Centre Association members recorded a ‘wonderful’ March according to figures posted in the organisation’s Barometer of Trade for the month – with furniture & BBQs up at +57.7%.

Statistics from GCA garden centres show 12 of the 13 sales areas recorded did well, when likened to the same month in 2024, with gardening categories taking the lead.

GCA Chief Executive, Peter Burks, says: “March was a wonderful month for our members with every garden centre that contributes to our BoT being up on their sales when compared to March last year. The last time we saw 12 categories out of 13 with positive figures was December 2023.

“It is also good to see that gardening categories showed the largest increases, which is confirming many people’s thoughts that there is a massive pent-up demand for gardening products due to such a poor spring last year.

“Catering was also still strong indicating a visit to the garden centre must include a coffee, lunch or treat, no matter what the weather is doing. The overall year-to-date variance was positive too at +10.77%.

“Garden sundries came second in our March BoT, when compared to last year, up by +37.03%, outdoor plants came in next at +35.69%, then hard landscaping in at number four with +31.85% and in fifth place with +28.37%.was seeds and bulbs

“Catering came in sixth position showing a +14.11% increase, with gifts next at +10.12%, followed by houseplants at +8.29% and then clothing up by +6.09%.

“Miscellaneous was showing +6.05%, when compared to the same month in 2024, then pet and aquatics at +5.89%, followed by food hall/farm shop at +2.47%. Leaving Christmas in a logical and predictable last place for this time of year at -45.69%.”

The GCA’s BoT reports are compiled using actual sales figures and provide an up-to-date trading position statement. They are made available mid-month following the end of the prior month after all member garden centres have submitted their results.

The BoT allows members to compare their trading positions with other centres.

The GCA represents more than 200 garden centres nationwide.

Through sharing information and its inspection programme the GCA helps members to achieve high standards in customer service, plant quality and reliability.

For further information, please go to www.gca.org.uk.

Kent & Stowe, the premium gardening brand renowned for quality and timeless design, has launched its new Extraordinary Shop – an innovative in-store retail concept now rolling out across garden centres.

Designed to bring the extraordinary essence of the brand to life, the Extraordinary Shopreimagines how tools and gloves are merchandised, delivering a truly differentiated retail experience. Drawing inspiration from the classic Kent Barn, the display reflects the brand’s heritage and craftsmanship, while offering a distinctive visual identity that invites customers to slow down, explore, and engage with products on a deeper level.

A New Standard in Tool and Glove Merchandising

Built from the ground up using feedback from over 1,000 gardening consumers, the Extraordinary Shop is the first retail experience of its kind in the category. Every detail is engineered to enhance the shopper journey — from tactile product displays that allow customers to get hands-on with tools, to clear, intuitive merchandising that demystifies collections and supports confident purchasing decisions. 

Key features include:

• ‘10 Must Have Tools’ Zone – A curated, high-impact feature highlighting the top essentials for gardeners
• Segmented Displays – Clear navigation across long-handled tools, cutting tools, and hand tools to simplify the selection process
• Shopper Engagement Design – A layout and aesthetic that naturally slows the shopper down, encouraging consideration and discovery.

Supporting Garden Centres

By elevating the retail experience, Kent & Stowe aims to drive higher engagement and sales for its retail partners. The Extraordinary Shop makes premium tools more accessible and appealing, empowering customers to find their perfect fit with ease.

Natalie Searle, Head of Marketing & Communications, for Kent & Stowe, added: “We’ve always believed our tools are extraordinary – now we have a retail environment that proves it with a brand experience designed to inspire gardeners and support garden centres in growing their tool sales.

“The Kent & Stowe Extraordinary Shop is now available to garden centre retail partners across the UK and Ireland. Feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with stores reporting not only big increases in shopper engagement, but critically the EPOS shows some very significant sales increases. 

To discover if your store could qualify for a Kent & Stowe Extraordinary Shop in 2026, speak to your Westland Account Manager.  

Taylors Bulbs have been awarded Premier Gold at Harrogate Spring Flower Show 2025 for their display of Daffodils.

The display which comprises 34 varieties all grown at Taylors Bulbs in Holbeach Lincolnshire. The team have been busy cropping over 2500 stems from the field over the last few weeks, carefully storing them away in the cold ready to display at Harrogate.

Charlotte Daubney, Marketing & Events Coordinator for Taylors Bulbs said: “We’ve been really busy cropping flowers ready for the show over the last few weeks. We have to be really selective, only picking the crème de la crème of the flowers. We always try to take a good range of colours and flower styles to showcase the range of different varieties we have available; we grow over 300 varieties on the farm at Holbeach so it’s a big job. I’m really proud of the display our team have put together this year and delighted to have been awarded Premier Gold”.

www.taylors-bulbs.com

email: sales@taylors-bulbs.com

The Horticultural Trades Association hosted another successful "Plants in Parliament" drop-in event on Wednesday, 23 April, attended by around 100 MPs, Peers and their teams, to bring key industry issues and a touch of spring greenery to Westminster. This is the third time the HTA has held the event in parliament to raise the profile of environmental horticulture and the vital role it plays in the UK. 

The event was sponsored by Ben Goldsborough MP and saw 200 plants being given to parliamentarians to highlight the sector's potential to deliver growth and solutions to pressing challenges.

Fran Barnes, Chief Executive of the HTA, said: "Now more than ever, it's vital that policymakers recognise the immense potential of environmental horticulture to drive economic growth, enhance our environment, and improve the health and wellbeing of communities across the UK. This event provides a critical opportunity to make that case directly to MPS and Peers and showcase the potential to grow by 45% by 2030 with adequate government support. As a sector, we made a £38 billion contribution to GDP in 2023, and we have the potential to reach £51.2 billion and support 763,000 jobs.”

Ben Goldsborough MP commented: "Environmental horticulture is a vital sector for our economy and our environment. I'm delighted to offer my continued support for this event at Portcullis House as an opportunity for my colleagues across all parties to engage with industry leaders and understand the challenges and opportunities facing this important sector. We need to ensure that policies are in place to support sustainable growth, create jobs, and unlock the full potential of environmental horticulture for the benefit of communities across the UK."

MPs and Peers were invited to collect a plant from the diverse selection supplied by HTA members, You Garden, providing a tangible reminder of the variety, value and beauty the horticulture sector brings.  Plants on offer included Chamaedorea elegans (Parlour palm), which is well-suited for offices, Sunflower ‘Sunbelievable Brown Eyed Girl’ - great for containers or outdoor borders, and Erysimum ‘Bowles’s Mauve’, known for its exceptionally long flowering period.

Discussions focused on how environmental horticulture is ideally placed to deliver economic, environmental, and health benefits, as well as the HTA's call for greater recognition from policymakers, including support for the Green Spaces Bill and an Office for Green Spaces. The HTA also highlighted the challenges of peak season costs for a sector comprised of over 90% SMEs, emphasising the impact of rising National Insurance and National Living Wage costs.

Rebecca Grant of Joseph Rochfords and Edward Campbell-Preston of Capital Gardens also attended the event as HTA Members to give a first-hand industry perspective.

Fran Barnes added: "The HTA remains committed to advocating for the needs of our members and ensuring that the voice of the environmental horticultural industry is heard in Westminster. We will continue to work closely with MPs and Peers to promote policies that support a thriving and sustainable future for our sector."

Garden centres keen to raise money and awareness for the vital work of the horticultural industry charity Perennial can now order three fundraising plants from Wyevale Nurseries for summer delivery.

Hereford-based Wyevale Nurseries’ 2025 Retailers’ Promotional catalogue includes an easy-to-grow hydrangea and two wildlife attracting salvias, which it hopes will sell well to help raise thousands for the charity.

Wyevale Nurseries’ Managing Director, Andy Johnson, says: “We’re delighted this month (April) to be officially launching our 2025 Plants for Perennial collection, which can be ordered now and will be available for garden centres to sell to consumers in June. Our three plants are part of the Plants for Perennial collaborative set-up between the charity and four major wholesale nurseries, including us, here in Herefordshire and Worcestershire.

“The scheme is designed to raise awareness and funds to support all those who work with plants, flowers, grass or trees. These are the people who help nurture, create and tend the plants and green spaces that help boost everyone’s wellbeing and health.

“Last year, all the nurseries involved collectively raised more than £14,500 to help support the charity and its vital work. We know that every plant adds a seed of hope to someone’s life while creating an abundance of colour, form, fragrance and attracting and supporting wildlife in gardens.

“This year, garden centres can order our Hydrangea macrophylla ‘Cherry Explosion’, which we launched at the 2023 Horticultural Trades Association (HTA) National Plant Show, the first shrub to be included in the range, and our Salvia gregii Cuello Pink and Salvia gregii Cuello White.”

Hydrangea macrophylla ‘Cherry Explosion’, which adds the perfect pop of colour to any garden space, without being high maintenance, and both salvias can be ordered now for delivery to garden centres in June, so they can be available for consumers to buy.

Garden Centre Sales Manager at Wyevale Nurseries, Colin Stanley, who has been heavily involved in the fundraising initiative, explains: “Hydrangea macrophylla ‘Cherry Explosion’ is a fantastic colour break in lace-cap hydrangea and provides a literal explosion of extra-large, cherry red open flower petals with a profusion of sparkling pink flowers in the centre. The flowers appear from top to bottom of the plant too.”

Both salvias flower early summer to late autumn, are bush forming and wildlife friendly. They are hardy to -5°c and reach a height and spread of 70-80cm.

Salvia Cuello Pink features slender, upright stems adorned with dense clusters of tubular blossoms from early summer through to late autumn. Its compact size and profuse blooming make it an excellent addition to smaller spaces or container gardens.

Salvia Cuello White has contrasting white blooms that blush to pink where the flowers meet its dramatic chocolate stems. It attracts pollinators, such as butterflies and bees, while brightening up the landscape with its pure white blooms.

Colin adds: “Each plant sold will be helping to raise essential funds and awareness for Perennial, which supports people working in, and retired from, our industry. As part of the Plant for Perennial promotion, our plants will have branded with Perennial linked picture labels and will be in taupe kerbside recyclable pots.”

The Plants for Perennial collection also includes Dianthus ‘Pink Celebration’ and Fuchsia ‘Waltz Jubilteen’ from Allensmore Nurseries, Nemesia ‘Peaches and Cream’ from The Bransford Webbs Plant Company and Clematis ‘Prince George’ from New Leaf Plants.

Perennial Corporate Partnership Manager, Phil Swainston, explains: “We’re delighted the Plants for Perennial scheme continues to go from strength to strength. We’d like to say a massive thank you to Allensmore Nurseries, The Bransford Webbs Plant Company, New Leaf Plants and Wyevale Nurseries, as well as all the garden centres that stock these beautiful plants and the gardeners who buy them” 

Perennial is the UK’s only charity supporting all those working in the horticultural community, as well as those who have retired, who dedicate their passion, time and energy to keeping Britain beautiful. 

 The ultimate aim is for everyone to know that Perennial is there for them. That not only is there free, tailored one-to-one confidential support on hand when needed, but that everyone can access the free advice and information available 24/7 online, covering topics such as the impact of health issues, bereavement, redundancy, family breakdowns, career progression, as well as impartial money management and health & wellbeing tools.

For further details about the Plants for Perennial Hydrangea macrophylla ‘Cherry Explosion’ or Salvia ‘Cuello Pink’ and ‘Cuello White’, please call Wyevale Nurseries on 01432 845 200 or visit www.wyevalenurseries.co.uk. 

As eight runners rest their tired feet, the Greenfingers Charity is taking a moment to thank them for their incredible act of endurance and generosity on behalf of the charity at this year’s London Landmarks Half Marathon (LLHM), held on 6th April 2025.

Now in its eleventh year, the LLHM continues to captivate runners and spectators alike by taking in some of the capital’s most iconic landmarks, from Big Ben and the London Eye to Downing Street and the world’s smallest police station – alongside quirky hidden gems like Guy Fawkes’ house and the city’s largest grasshopper. With over 20,000 runners taking part this year, it marked the largest LLHM to date.

Amongst the sea of runners were eight remarkable individuals who took on the challenge to raise vital funds for the Greenfingers Charity, which creates inspiring gardens for children in hospices across the UK.

From Poplars Garden Centre, Jack Goodhand turned heads and brought smiles as he ran the full 13.1 miles dressed as a flowerpot, finishing in an impressive time of 01:50:23 and raising £1,052.50, plus several hundred pounds in cash donations.

Representing SBM Life Science, Mial Walker and Claire Walker completed the course together in 02:04:19, while Kate Richardson crossed the finish line in 01:55:21. The star of the SBM team, Adam Parke, achieved a phenomenal 01:18:25, placing 60th overall out of 23,952 participants. Collectively, the SBM team raised a fantastic £3,471.02 for the charity.

From Evergreen Garden Care, three brilliant runners took part: Debbie Collinswho chalked up a finish time of 02:52:43, James Davies with a time of 01:44:14, and Colin Stephens, completing the course in 01:40:06. Their combined efforts raised a superb £4,186.75, with Colin alone generating £3,218.75 in support of Greenfingers.

Speaking of their efforts, Linda Petrons, Director of Fundraising and Communications at Greenfingers Charity, said: “We are incredibly proud of all eight runners who took part in the London Landmarks Half Marathon on behalf of Greenfingers Charity. Each of them showed enormous dedication, enthusiasm and generosity, not only training for and completing the race but also raising vital funds that will help us to create more magical gardens for children with life-limiting conditions. The flowerpot costume was a real crowd-pleaser, and we hope might be the first of many such costumes we see running for Greenfingers in the future! Thank you to every one of our runners – your support means the world.”

Will you tackle the LLHM for Greenfingers in 2026?

With the date for the 2026 London Landmarks Half Marathon already on the horizon – 12th April 2026 – the Greenfingers Charity is inviting supporters, garden lovers, and keen runners alike to lace up their trainers and be part of next year’s team. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or taking on your first half marathon, it’s a brilliant opportunity to challenge yourself while making a lasting difference to life-limited children and their families. To find out how you can join Team Greenfingers in 2026, please reach out to the team directly.

Find out more

To find out more about Greenfingers Charity, and how to get involved in a range of fundraising events please visit www.greenfingerscharity.org.uk. You can also join in the conversation by joining Greenfingers on social media - https://www.facebook.com/Greenfingerscharity/, @GreenfingersCha on Twitter, and @Greenfingerscharity on Instagram and LinkedIn. 

Blue Diamond Gardens Centres will once again be exhibiting at this year’s RHS Chelsea Flower Show after their success on Main Avenue last year, where their Show Garden won People’s Choice and the inaugural Children’s Choice Awards.

This time they will be exhibiting in the Grand Pavilion (GPB 032), working with Leaf Creative to design an immersive, walk through, cottage style garden which will serve to showcase a ‘treasure trove’ of never-before-seen plants, many of which are exclusive to Blue Diamond Garden Centres and which will be launched at the show.

One such plant is a first of its kind….

Hydrangea, Groundbreaker® Blush™, bred by Alex Schoemaker, is the world’s first true groundcover Hydrangea, growing to a height of 30cm and a spread of 60cm. 

Adorned with conical clusters of four-petalled blooms, which start off white before warming to a rosy pink through the season, these smother the neat mound of small, delicate leaves throughout summer and into autumn, giving over 100 days of blooms!

Blue Diamond Garden Centres will be the first to bring this plant to the garden centre market and it will be available to buy in all Blue Diamond Garden Centres from late July/early August.

Hydrangea, Groundbreaker® Blush™

Image credits- Breeder Alex Schoemaker and agent to the breeder, Plantipp

Blue Diamond Garden Centres are also launching four new and exclusive roses at this year’s show, all bred by renowned rose breeder, Rosen Tantau. 

Rosa ‘Vianne’s Chocolat’ on behalf of the best-selling author Joanne Harris, to celebrate the launch of her new book, ‘Vianne’, a prequel to Chocolat, which was made into an Oscar-nominated film in 2000.

This Hybrid Tea rose produces deep purple, highly fragrant blooms, nostalgic in style which repeat flower throughout the season, with a bushy upright growth.

Joanne has synaesthesia that allows her to smell colours and her new rose smells, to Joanne, aptly of chocolate!

Rosa ‘Vianne’s Chocolat’

Breeder synonym RT 17576 (credit Kyte Photography).  

Rosa ‘Stronger Together’ on behalf of Muscular Dystrophy UK.

This rose produces dual colour blooms, red outer petals with an attractive white centre which lead to a yellow stamen, making it the perfect rose to attract pollinators.

The Charity had great success at last year’s RHS Chelsea Flower Show with their Main Avenue Show Garden, designed by Ula Maria and funded by grant-making charity Project Giving Back, which won Best in Show. Blue Diamond Garden Centres are delighted to be able to support the charity this year by launching a rose on their behalf.

Muscular Dystrophy UK is the leading charity for over 110,000 adults and children in the UK living with one of over 60 muscle wasting and weakening conditions.

Muscular dystrophies are a group of rare conditions, that gradually cause muscles to weaken and waste.

Rosa ‘Stronger Together’

Breeder synonym Tan16512

Rosa ‘Wedding Bouquet’ this exquisite Hybrid Tea rose produces snow-white blooms which contrast effectively against dark-green foliage. The perfect rose to include in a wedding bouquet!

Rosa ‘Wedding Bouquet’

Breeder synonym RT20820

And Rosa ‘Love Remembered’ named by winners, Gill Haines and Eleanor Morris of Blue Diamond’s ‘Name the Rose’ competition, run exclusively for their Diamond Club Members. This classic Hybrid Tea rose produces fragrant, elegant, large pink blooms.

Rosa ‘Love Remembered’

Breeder synonym Tan14550

But that’s not all, in Blue Diamond’s immersive, walk-through exhibit, they will showcase other never-before-seen plants which will be available to buy in Blue Diamond Garden Centres.

New plants for 2025 include; -

Hydrangea Fairytrail® White and Green, both new and exclusive to Blue Diamond Garden Centres.

Fairytrail®  hydrangeas produce ball shaped flowers that are a breakthrough in this type of Hydrangea, on long trailing stems with flowers at every leaf node covering the entire plant.  Fairytrail®  bloom from mid spring, the perfect way to start the hydrangea season early!

They thrive in a semi-shaded spot where they should be left to grow unhindered and are perfect in pots on the patio, hanging baskets or planted in the ground.

Image credits Valkplant - breeder Ushio Sakazaki, agent Valkplant

Fuchsia Dancers Mambo- combines the aesthetic traits of traditional varieties with the plant habit and earlier flowering of modern varieties. Shorter internodes and better branching make for a compact classic perfect for planting in a container. Two weeks earlier flowering means first-time gardeners can buy them in flower and enjoy them for longer.

Also available in the series are Fuchsia Jive, Salsa, Samba, Rumba and Waltz.

Blue Diamond Garden Centres are the first to bring these plants to the garden centre market

Mambo, Jive, Waltz, Rumba and Salsa (from left to right below)

Sundaville® Verona Red (featured below left)- a magnificent addition to the largest Mandevilla collection in the world. This new variety is the result of years of dedication and hard work to enhance and improve the classic features of the plant.

From March until the first frost, the Sundaville® Verona Red blooms with a vibrant and glossy red colour that does not fade under the sunlight.

Sundaville® Double Blush Pink (below right)

A real winner, the first double flowered Mandavilla with stunning double blush pink flowers with deep green leaves, smothering this plant from early May right through to the late Autumn

Both are new to Blue Diamond Garden Centres and Sundaville® Verona Red is also exclusive to Blue Diamond.

Geum FireStarter ©Proven Winners® Color Choice®, new and exclusive to Blue Diamond Garden Centres.

New UK Breeding has developed this full double large flowered Geum in the deepest of red flowers, that has a long flowering season for up to 3 months and excellent stem rigidity to hold the large flowers. With rich, deep green foliage providing ground cover for much of the year, this hardy Geum brings both structure and vivid colour to the garden.
Tolerant of full sun or partial shade, it thrives in moist, well-drained soil and works well alongside other early summer perennials, offering continuous impact for months.

Hebe Lime Pickle- new to Blue Diamond Garden Centres, this vivid, lime green foliage with lovely purple flowers in summer, are perfect for attracting bees and other pollinators to the garden. Foliage remains all year round.  

Nemesia Peaches and Cream, new to Blue Diamond Garden Centres –produces wonderful, heavily scented blooms of pink and lemon that smother the plant throughout the summer months, creating an eye-catching cloud of colour and are again perfect for attracting bees to the garden. 

Verbascum Peach Champagne, new to Blue Diamond Garden Centres, is a stunning perennial which catches the eye with its upright spikes of peachy flowers that add vertical interest to sunny borders or cottage gardens

‘Digitalis’ Apple Blossom, new to Blue Diamond Garden Centres. This new foxglove presents triple flower power through its totally new, frilly, orchid-like flower shape; its unique blend of pale pinkish white lower flowers with creamy yellow upper flowers; and its exceptionally generous blooming; with a queue of secondary flower spikes already waiting to follow hot on the heels of the first.

But that’s not all……. Blue Diamond’s exhibit will also include the oldest and rarest plant too!

Look out for the (Wollemi Nobilis) also known as the Wollemi Pine, one of the World’s oldest and rarest plants on the planet, dating back to the time of the dinosaurs! 

The original Wollemi nobilis, was first discovered in 1994 and shook the horticultural world when it first came to light deep in a secret gorge in Wollemi National Park, Australia. The plant, thought to have been extinct for 200 million years and only recognised through fossils, was found in a stand of only 100 trees.  

Today, the species is still critically endangered according to the IUCN Red List. To conserve this species, the trees have been propagated and planted in botanic gardens around the world.  

Blue Diamond’s exhibit will feature one of the original world breeding programme specimens!

A small number of Wollemi Pine will also be available to order from Blue Diamond’s exhibit during Show week. Each will come with a certificate of authenticity. Owners of this rare plant will become custodians, protecting this species for future generations to come.

This Pine will be planted with a selection of other Australasian plants that can be grown in the U.K., from Tree Ferns to Libertias.

Jill Kerr, Group Relationship Manager for Blue Diamond Garden Centres says; -

“Blue Diamond Garden Centre’s exhibit this year will really be a ‘treasure trove’! Full of never-before-seen plants to inspire and desire, whatever the budget. We pride ourselves in offering our customers a point of difference, high quality plants, many of which are home-grown in our UK based nurseries. We hope that visitors to RHS Chelsea Flower Show and ultimately to our Garden Centres, will find some real treasures for their homes and gardens, which are not available from anywhere else!”.

For all Press enquiries please contact; -

Jill Kerr- Group Relationship Manager for Blue Diamond Garden Centres

Email: - Jill.kerr@bluediamond.gg

Tel: - 07824 660701

Blue Diamond is the UK’s Number One Garden Centre group with 49 centres across the UK and Channel Islands. It owns 5 UK based nurseries which grow and supply plants exclusively for the Group. It also has its own brand of Fryer’s Roses, and it is the proud owner of Bridgemere Show Gardens, an RHS Partner Garden, set in 6-acres and which includes a collection of award-winning show gardens, including RHS Chelsea Gold medal winning gardens.  

Visit bluediamond.gg for more information

Leaf Creative Gardens

Leaf Creative is a garden design and retail centre, formed in 2018 by Chelsea Gold medallist Peter Dowle. This is where plants rule supreme together with its Fernery restaurant, a magical dining experience set amidst tropical plants.  Leaf Creative Gardens operates from the same site, designing gardens for construction throughout the Cotswolds and Southwest. Leaf Creative are proud partners of the Blue Diamond Garden Centre Group and have recently helped to construct the rebuild of the Group’s 2024 RHS Chelsea Show Garden at their Bridgmere Show Gardens in Nantwich, Cheshire.

Contact: - Enquiries@leafcreativegardens.co.uk

Peter Dowle- peter@leafcreative.co.uk

Joanne Harris OBE is the author of over 20 novels, including CHOCOLAT, which was made into an Oscar-nominated film in 2000.  Her work has been translated into over 50 languages and has won a number of British and international awards. She was the Chair of the Society of Authors for 6 years and has judged numerous literary prizes. She holds honorary doctorates in literature from the universities of Sheffield and Huddersfield, is an honorary Fellow of St Catharine's College, Cambridge, and in 2022 she was made a Fellow of the Royal Society of Literature.

The Muscular Dystrophy UK

The Muscular Dystrophy UK helpline provides free information, advice and support to anyone living with a muscle wasting or weakening condition as well as family members, carers and friends. This could include emotional support following a recent diagnosis, advice about services available, help navigating the benefits system, information about housing and home adaptations, or support on employment issues. Call the team on 0800 652 6352.

For more information, visit musculardystrophyuk.org

The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) has teamed up with Crane Garden Buildings to unveil the RHS Cube – a bold, modern garden studio blending cutting-edge design with decades of inspirational creation.

Inspired by RHS Hilltop at RHS Garden Wisley, the UK’s first dedicated horticultural scientific centre of excellence, this stylish and fully insulated space is ideal for work, wellness, or simply unwinding. With over 50 years of craftsmanship behind it, the RHS Cube is an elegant, year-round extension of the home.

Customers can personalise their Cube with everything from electrics and partitions to verandas and window layouts. Each studio is made to order at Crane’s Norfolk workshop and installed by expert teams.

Peter Mortin, Business Development Manager for Crane says: “As a proudly Norfolk-based, family-run business, and a well-regarded producer of high-quality-timber garden buildings, we are thrilled to be working with the UK’s favourite gardening charity and gaining inspiration from its work and great gardens.

“The RHS Cube is a marvellous introduction to the RHS Garden Building Collection, which we are sure will receive a very enthusiastic reception from customers.”

“Sustainability is also top of the agenda for many, including us, as we use high-quality products for durability lasting decades, eco-friendly materials and responsible building practices to minimise our environmental impact. We are also registered with the PEFC (Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification), meaning that we endorse and promote sustainable forestry practices.”

Launching at select Crane show sites this spring, the RHS Cube will also appear at major events including RHS Malvern Spring Festival, RHS Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival and the Royal Windsor Horse Show.

Cathy Snow, Licensing Manager for the RHS, says: “Experience, expertise and reputation are important when choosing a partner in the garden buildings business, and Crane has high ratings in all three. 

“We are delighted to be working with Crane on the distinctive and highly desirable RHS Cube and a garden building collection that we are sure will continue to surprise and delight in the coming year.”

The RHS Cube is just the beginning. The garden studio is the first in a full RHS Garden Building Collection in partnership with Crane, with a variety of designs scheduled to be unveiled by the end of 2026. All will be sustainably built, with modern and modular options to suit every garden and lifestyle.

For more information on Crane Garden Buildings, visit www.cranegardenbuildings.co.uk. For more information on the RHS visit www.rhs.org.uk.

The UK’s first luxury smart pergola, which owners can operate effortlessly from their phones and smart home technology, has been launched.

The design experts at PERGOLUX are redefining outdoor living by combining cutting edge technology with sleek, modern design to create luxury smart pergolas for style conscious homeowners. 

The new PERGOLUX Series 3 pergolas have been designed to match the changing needs of luxury customers. 

The smart pergolas can be opened and closed effortlessly from the wireless remote, the free app or with their voice when connected to their smart home. They can also control other accessories including additional lighting and heating using smart control integration.

The luxury designs feature a motorised roof with integrated lights within its louvers, offering customers a sleek, functional and modern pergola, and a space in the garden they can use all year round. 

The three designs, the Skydance Series 3, the Sundream Series 3 and Pergola Series 3, 

create a focal point in the garden and an all weather year-round entertaining and relaxation space.

Each pergola can be opened to let sunlight in and create a warming space or closed to create shade on a sunny day or to protect from inclement weather with ease.

The Series 3 also features a new quiet motor which is over 20% stronger, making the pergola more durable and smoother to operate.

Skydance Series 3 is the top of the range design with larger dimensions, louver-Integrated LED Lighting and all weather adaptability, perfect for customers looking for the ultimate luxury outdoor space.

With its high end specification, the PERGOLUX Skydance Series 3 offers a luxurious entertaining and relaxation space which can be used all year round, whatever the weather.

The Sundream includes 360 degrees LED lighting. This stylish design offers shoppers value for money without compromising on their dream gardens.

PERGOLUX Pergola Series 3 stays true to its roots with its manual adjustable roof and smart control integration with additional accessories such as lighting and heating. 

PERGOLUX is known for offering high-quality, luxury pergolas with a sleek Scandinavian design and a focus on durability, longevity and low maintenance. 

Country manager Ammar Nova from PERGOLUX UK said: “We aren’t just launching a new series; we’re ushering in the future of outdoor living with the UK’s first smart pergolas. These are focused on offering customers luxurious outdoor living solutions and creating a beautiful, usable outdoor space all year round.

“Smart technology around the home is well used, so adopting that same technology in the garden means owners can embrace the convenience and control it offers in their outdoor space.

“We want our customers to see their garden as the ideal environment to entertain, relax or simply enjoy the outdoors. And we want to give the option of a stunning PERGOLUX series 3 pergola to suit all budgets.

“The three designs available, all in a range of sizes from 3m  x 3m to 4m x 6m have  been created to adapt to all gardens, whether the pergola is a covered retreat, a space for pool parties or a dinner entertainment space

“Everyone should be able to build their dream garden and offering customers three different versions of the Series 3 allows them to choose the perfect pergola for their needs and budget.”

The PERGOLUX pergola series 3 is available to order now with delivery during the summer. 

Cornilleau, masters of French craftsmanship and table tennis innovation, is returning to Chelsea Flower Show this May.  Cornilleau, who has become a global leader in the design and manufacture of premium table tennis products, will showcase its beautifully crafted hybrid Play-Style range - versatile tables that double as elegant dining tables.

Made in the Oise region of France, Cornilleau is renowned for its dedication to craftsmanship, innovation, and sustainability. Founded in 1946, Cornilleau uses almost 80 years of experience to craft outdoor and indoor table tennis tables, designer games furniture, and accessories that meet the highest standards of quality and performance. In recent years, the brand has focused on delivering superior durability and aesthetic appeal with its Play-Style range

Cornilleau is bringing its Play-Style Tables to the Chelsea Flower Show, showcasing their blend of elegance and functionality for both indoor and outdoor spaces. The mission of the Play-Style collection is to bring together the joy of play and the beauty of design, giving a new lease of life to universally loved leisure activities. 

Crafted from premium materials, including the warmth of solid Moabi wood, chosen for its weather resistance and enhanced with an anti-UV treatment, paired with the strength of steel and surfaces that have been lab-tested for durability, ensuring long-lasting performance both indoors and outdoors. With a 5-year warranty and 20-year spare parts guarantee, Cornilleau ensures long-lasting performance, making it a premium addition to any home or garden.

Chelsea Flower Show is open to the general public from Tuesday 20^th May – Saturday 24^th May. 

For further information, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with cornilleau@littleredrooster.co.uk.

EGO Power+, a leading specialist of battery-powered outdoor power equipment, has developed its largest mower yet. As the first mower in its portfolio to feature a super composite deck, the LM2236E-SP 55cm mower kit is an exciting new entry to the market.

Strong yet lightweight, this flagship residential mower has a large 55cm cutting capacity and is the first of EGO’s mowers to boast a super composite cutting deck which is notably lighter in weight compared to aluminium or steel decks and is more robust, offering improved longevity.

Ideal for gardening enthusiasts of all strengths, while this may be a beast of a mower, it has been designed with simplicity in mind. Featuring a push button start, users can simply push the handle and the mower will self-propel forward, while the addition of a variable cutting speed helps make for an even more effortless mowing experience.

For further ease, grass-cutting height can be adjusted easily via the 8-position spring loaded adjustment (between 25 to 100mm), and the SELECT CUT interchangeable multi-blade cutting system allows users to alternate incrementally between mulching or grass collection with a single lever.

Users can also choose a side discharge accessory to quickly disperse of grass cuttings. Additionally, the kit also comes complete with a 10.0Ah battery which can cut up to 2000sqm on a single charge.

For added convenience, the aluminium telescopic handle boasts a quick-release lever enabling easy access to the collection bag, while the powerful LED lights also make the mower suitable for applications in low-light environments.

Joerg Bauerle, Product Manager for EGO, said: “We are delighted to introduce the 55cm mower to our portfolio. Not only is it more durable, but it is also stronger and lighter in weight compared to other mowers on the market due to the introduction of a super composite deck.

“It is ideal for residential users as the mower will self-propel forwards with minimal effort required, and it is easily controlled via the cockpit, which provides live status updates of the mower. We have found that there is also traction with professional users due to it being much lighter in weight compared to aluminium or steel decks.”

The LM2236E-SP 55cm mower kit retails at £1199, including a 10.0Ah battery and rapid charger.

To learn more, visit: https://egopowerplus.co.uk/products/mowers/lm2236e-sp-55cm-cordless-mower-kit

Autumn Fair returns to the NEC Birmingham from 7–10 September, offering retailers a key opportunity to refresh their product ranges ahead of the peak shopping season. The 2024 edition saw a 34% rise in new, high-calibre buyers, and following this success, the show is expanding with 10% more floor space. Now 85% sold and close to being fully booked, it will feature an expertly curated collection of over 800 brands, showcasing thousands of must-have products across three key destinations: Home, Gift, and Fashion.

Longstanding home fragrance exhibitor of Autumn Fair, Tara Carlile-Swift Freckleface Founder & Managing Director said, “Freckleface has been at Autumn Fair now for 4 years, it has seen us grow from a kitchen table business to stocking in over 100- stockists and the trade shows have been a key part of that, helping us connect with new buyers. Attending Autum Fair is critical for staying relevant in the retail world, keeping up with trends and keeping up with what is important to our buyers. This is the most impactful time of the year for us, ready for developing our products for Christmas next year.”

Co-Founder Craig Wensley and Head of Marketing Steve Manser at giftware brand DCUK said, “Spring and Autumn Fair are well-attended and popular events in the giftware industry calendar, so even attending the shows acts as a powerful signalling device. All the top brands are in attendance, which means it’s easier to be noticed by more buyers, owners, and the most useful key media, PR, and industry contacts. Every show generates a lot of fresh interest for DCUK characters, especially because what we offer is very visual and tactile. Being at Spring and Autumn Fair means that potential and current (or lapsed) customers have the best opportunity to engage with us in person and see the magic for themselves! In the last two years, our presence at the show has also brought us to the attention of several distributors within the UK and overseas – which we’ve since set up and agreed. Following an initial meeting, we’ve also secured our first major licensing agreement.”

Long standing exhibitor and family run Greeting business, The Art File shared the impact Spring and Autumn Fair has had on their company, James Mace Sales & Marketing Manager said, “Ged and Karen Mace founded the business in 1997, and with Ged having already had 13 Spring & Autumn Fairs under his belt with Accord , Ink Group and Portico, he knew that the 1998 Spring Fair would be crucial and integral in a successful launch of The Art File - within the first day of the show, we landed our first international Distributor (A Canadian Distributor called Incognito ran by Dean Newman, of whom we still work with today), and a plethora of independent retailers. And the rest they say is History. We have been proud supporters of Spring and Autumn Fair since we started, and it would be an understatement if I didn’t say that the show have been, and continues, to be integral to our growth and success as a business today.”

Nick Ronald, Founder of the Home and Garden brand Casa Verde and an experienced wholesaler who has exhibited at Spring and Autumn Fair for 50 seasons shared his perspective on the value of trade shows for his growing brand, “Trade fairs are the lifeblood of our industry for two reasons. One, we're a very personable company and we're blessed with the most incredible customers. And two, we have around a thousand trade customers, and it's so important to meet them face to face. Spring and Autumn Fair are really the only places you're going to meet new customers, and if we are going to grow, we must show the goods and be there. It's incredibly hard work, but we go home as high as a kite because touch wood, it normally works rather well!”

Greetings Card brand Ohh Deer will be joining the Autumn Fair line-up for the first time this season, Mark Callaby, Co-Founder and Managing Director said, “We love doing tradeshows at Ohh Deer and they're a vital part of our brand marketing each year and we've been seeing great success with Spring Fair in recent years that we thought giving Autumn Fair a go would be a logical step. We've also heard great things about the show from fellow exhibitors and retailers who attend the show.”

Autumn Fair is the retail industries go-to for independents seeking seamless and efficient sourcing. The event attracts a diverse array of independent retailers eager to rejuvenate their product offerings for the bustling year-end season providing the perfect opportunity for suppliers able to deliver on smaller minimums with quick turnarounds.

Jackson Szabo, Portfolio Director, Autumn Fair said, “We love to celebrate the success of our Autumn Fair exhibitors as we continue to evolve the show to serve the needs of our community. Autumn Fair provides the last opportunity in the year for product exploration, and every retailer attending wants to be inspired by original and exceptional quality products that can seamlessly fit into their shops.”

Autumn Fair returns to NEC Brimingham, 7-10 September bringing the industry together to make the most of the retail’s peak shopping season.

We are currently seeking a Supervisor for our Garden Sundries department; working five days a week to include Saturday. This is an exciting opportunity for someone with retail experience in Garden Sundries. The role includes the purchasing of selected product ranges including Christmas Lights along side the department manager.

Responsibilities:

• Maintaining the department standards
• Driving sales and profitability
• Regular reporting against targets
• Managing stock rotation and control
• Placing orders across product ranges
• Exploring new product lines and ranges
• Maintaining the appearance of visual displays and department housekeeping
• Delivering an exceptional level of customer service at all times

About you:

• Retail experience in garden sundries, DIY and gardening
• Experience of working in a fast-paced retail environment
• Exceptional customer service skills
• Excellent communication skills
• Work well in a team
• An eye for detail
• Great self-motivation and a can-do attitude
• Be well presented

Sundries includes products in these areas:

• Garden Machinery
• Tools
• Fertilisers and Chemicals
• Watering
• Garden Hardware
• Garden Accessories
• Pots
• Christmas Lights 

Benefits:

• Company pension
• Employee discount
• Free parking

Salary:

• Negotiable based on experience.

Applications and CV to Nigel Wallis: nigel@baytree-gardencentre.com

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Euroflora 2025 officially opened on 24 April at Genoa’s newly regenerated Waterfront di Levante, marking the 13th edition of one of the world’s most anticipated international exhibitions for ornamental horticulture. Organised by Porto Antico di Genova, the event is approved by the International Association of Horticultural Producers (AIPH) and continues through 4 May 2025.

This year’s theme, “Nature Takes Its Space,” sets the tone for a showcase that spans 85,000 square metres of exhibition gardens, indoor pavilions, and floating installations. With 154 gardens on display and participation from more than a dozen countries, Euroflora 2025 offers a vivid demonstration of how horticulture can shape greener cities, support economic growth, and inspire international collaboration.

The opening of Euroflora 2025 was marked by a message of unity and celebration. The welcome address paid tribute to the dedication of the organisers, the Liguria Region, and the many national horticultural associations involved. Delegations from around the world were recognised, including representatives from the Holy See, AIPH, and international exhibitors. The presence of the Holy See held particular resonance in light of this week’s passing of Pope Francis, offering a moment of reflection and shared values.

Speaking during the opening, AIPH President Leonardo Capitanio emphasised the importance of international collaboration and creativity in ornamental horticulture.

“Euroflora is more than a showcase—it is a celebration of what we can achieve when beauty, sustainability, and international cooperation come together,” he said. “As President of AIPH, I am proud to witness how exhibitions like this help elevate horticulture on the world stage and inspire future generations.”

AIPH Secretary General Tim Briercliffe and AIPH President Leonardo Capitanio joined a panel of 115 experts as part of the international grand jury on 23 April. Together, they assessed 254 honorary, technical, and aesthetic competitions, recognising the event’s top achievements in garden design, plant quality, and innovation.

“Euroflora provides so many gardens and exhibits that there really is something for everyone,” said Tim Briercliffe. “From technical excellence to aesthetic impact, they reflect horticulture from around the world. It was an honour to be part of the jury and witness first-hand how innovation and artistry come together on this global stage.”
 

Euroflora 2025 also welcomed participation from future AIPH-approved hosts for the International Green Expo in Thailand: Udon Thani 2026. The Thai delegation strengthens Euroflora’s global dimension and reinforces the growing network of AIPH exhibitions and the shared vision of promoting horticulture as a cultural and economic force.
Also debuting at Euroflora this year is Bhutan, represented by AIPH Member, the Horticulture Association of Bhutan. In a post on social media, the association expressed its pride in being part of the event:

“It is truly an honour to be a part of such a remarkable event that celebrates the beauty and wonder of horticulture,” the association wrote. “We are confident that Euroflora 2025 will be a huge success, and we can’t wait to showcase our passion and dedication to the world.”
  

Beyond the gardens, Euroflora 2025 integrates cutting-edge research and sustainability with live demonstrations from the Italian Institute of Technology and a showcase of the SpaceV vertical greenhouse, developed for use in extreme and space-based environments. Visitors can also explore design installations from the Ars Urbana competition, bonsai demonstrations from Master Naoko Maeoka, and a series of talks by noted scientific communicators, including Stefano Mancuso and Mario Tozzi.

The Jean Nouvel Pavilion is home to the event’s floristry stage, where leading designers such as Federico Silvestri and Francesco Bannini and international talents like Marina Bulatova present floral artistry for weddings, fashion, and sustainable living.
  

Euroflora’s influence extends far beyond the exhibition grounds. As part of “Euroflora Diffusa”, Genoa itself has embraced the floral spirit with dozens of citywide installations, exhibitions, and events. Highlights include the Rolli Days (26–27 April, 3–4 May), offering visitors a rare glimpse into Genoa’s historic palaces and cultural programmes hosted in the city’s museums, libraries, and parks.

Euroflora 2025 remains a shining example of how international horticultural exhibitions can unite artistry, innovation, and global goodwill. AIPH is proud to be part of this event and to support its continued legacy of excellence.

Euroflora 2025 is organised by Porto Antico di Genova, with support from the Municipality of Genoa, the Liguria Region, and AIPH. For the full programme and ticket information, visit www.euroflora.genova.it.

James Barnes will step down from his position as Chairman at the Horticultural Trades Association at the next Annual General Meeting in September, marking the end of his tenure, which began in 2019.

A long-standing and respected champion of the environmental horticulture sector, James Barnes has been a driving force at the HTA, bringing over 25 years of invaluable business experience to the role. Working with the President, the CEO and the Board, James has played a pivotal role in shaping the strategic direction of the HTA and promoting the interests of its members.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, James provided robust leadership, achieving the reopening of garden centres. His efforts ensured continued support for HTA members and contributed to the survival of many businesses, instilling a sense of reassurance in the industry's future as well as encouraging a new wave of gardeners to appreciate their own piece of green space. James has also played an active role in growing HTA’s voice with policymakers and the media on a range of issues, whether on a sustainable transition to peat-free gardening or borders and trade policy.

Will Armitage, President of the HTA, said: “James has been an exceptional asset to the HTA and the wider horticultural community. His commitment to the sector is undeniable and will continue, and his leadership has been instrumental in navigating numerous challenges and opportunities. He has passionately advocated for our members' interests, from ensuring their businesses could reopen during the pandemic to promoting sustainable practices like responsible peat use. Under James’ guidance, the senior leadership team at the HTA has been bolstered with the introduction of a CEO and new director roles who are effectively delivering a new strategy and value for members. We are all incredibly grateful for his dedication and guidance."

James Barnes, Chairman of the HTA, commented: “I have thoroughly enjoyed my tenure at the HTA and have relished helping to build the organisation to be the respected and leading voice for the sector it now is. The horticultural industry remains a great family of businesses. It has contributed hugely to my life, and it’s been great to be able to support its broader success. Thank you to all those who have made the journey so enjoyable and so fulfilling. I hope to continue to champion and defend its causes.”

British Garden Centres has won Gold at Harrogate’s Spring show with its show garden 'The Butterfly Garden', designed to raise awareness for Greenfingers Charity.

The UK’s largest family-run garden centre group teamed up with garden designer Pip Probert to design the garden at this year’s Spring Show.  The garden offers a respite for families to sit, chat, and reflect whilst connecting with nature, a vital reminder of the work Greenfingers do, building similar gardens in children’s hospices across the UK.

The garden has had a great response from the general public visiting the show. It highlights and creates awareness of Greenfingers Charity and the work it does across UK hospices. It is also a take-home idea that is achievable in a homeowner's outdoor space.

The back fence, wrapping around the corners of the garden, is a symbol of arms embracing the occupant, providing a sense of comfort and protection. Two raised beds add layers of colour to draw the eye into the heart of the garden. At the heart lies an arbour seat, serving as a focal point, inviting people to pause and contemplate. Surrounding the arbour is a selection of plants from British Garden Centres, including hydrangeas, peonies, buxus and lilac, contained by sett edging. A gravel path winds through the garden, leading to a fire pit and four lounge chairs, offering seating options for relaxation and the option for families to come together.

The planting scheme is a key feature of the garden, designed to attract both people and butterflies with a range of colours and flower heads, whilst the borders are filled with a mix of plants, complemented by gravel planting to soften the overall look. A wooden archway marks the entrance, welcoming visitors into this butterfly haven.

James Ducker, Events Manager at British Garden Centres, said: “We are incredibly proud to see the ‘Butterfly Garden’ recognised with a Gold medal at the Harrogate Spring Show. This medal is a testament to the vision of designer Pip Probert and our partnership with Greenfingers Charity. We hope this show garden inspires visitors to support Greenfingers and raise awareness of its work creating more therapeutic spaces for families and children in hospices across the UK.”

Linda Petrons, Director of Fundraising & Communications at Greenfingers Charity, added: “We are thrilled to hear British Garden Centres has won a highly deserved Gold medal for the Butterfly Garden and would like to say a huge thank you to them, Pip, and the team for raising awareness of Greenfingers vital work through this beautiful Show garden. The ‘Butterfly Garden’ symbolises the vital work we do in children’s hospices, building therapeutic outdoor spaces that provide a quiet place to sit, chat and for moments of peaceful reflection. “

All plants used in the Butterfly Garden will be available to purchase from the British Garden Centres stand, with a team of experts on hand with gardening advice and on how to replicate the look at home.

For more information on Greenfingers Charity and its work, please visit www.greenfingerscharity.org.uk or email linda@greenfingerscharity.org.uk

The horticultural world is mourning the sad loss of Peter Cox, founder of Glendoick Garden Centre, who passed away on 8th April at the age of 91.

Peter was born in  February 1934 in Dundee Scotland. His father Euan Cox was a well-known horticultural writer and plant-collector who owned a garden at Glendoick, Perth, Scotland.

After studying horticulture at college in Edinburgh and working for a year at Notcutts Nurseries, Woodbridge, Peter and his father Euan founded the rhododendron nursery ‘Glendoick Gardens Ltd’ in 1953. 

Peter married Tricia Sherrard in 1963. They met when she came to buy rhododendrons for her family garden, Maryborough House, Cork Ireland. Their sons Kenneth (born 1964) and Raymond (born 1966) and their parents lived at Sandyhall farm across the fields from Glendoick.

In 1972 Glendoick Garden Centre was opened, largely under the management of Tricia Cox while Peter ran the nursery. Over the years Glendoick became a centre for excellence in all aspects of the culture of, hybridising of and publishing books on rhododendrons. 

Peter Cox – Plant Hunting

Peter Cox has probably seen and studied more species of Rhododendron in the wild than any one else at any time. Peter and his best friend Sir Peter Hutchison went on 18 major plant-hunting expeditions and his eye for good garden plants brought back from his travels range from Ulex gallii Mizen from S. Ireland to Rhododendron coxianum which he discovered in India in 1965. He has collected thousands of seed numbers from many parts of the globe, all carefully documented as to altitude, aspects, growing conditions etc. Both the seed itself and many plants grown from it have been distributed to Botanic Gardens and collections in many countries. Cox and Hutchison, one of the world’s most durable plant hunting partnerships, returned to China, Tibet, or the Himalaya almost every year, until they retired to write their memoirs the mammoth book Seeds of Adventure.

Peter Cox – Plant Breeder

One of the most successful and important rhododendron hybridisers, in the 1960s Peter Cox that the future lay in developing cultivars for the small garden. His dwarf rhododendron hybrids were named after birds such as ‘Chikor’, ‘Curlew’ and ‘Ptarmigan’  and his evergreen azaleas named after animals, such as ‘Panda’ and ‘Squirrel’. Hybridising in the 1980s focussed on rhododendrons with coloured foliage and new colour breaks. Compact Hybrids Wine and Roses ['pinkros'] and Evered ['85/1C'] are protected by Plant Breeders rights and have become best sellers worldwide. 

Peter with Tricia after receiving the MBE. (AP credit)

Peter Cox – Honours and Awards

• Victoria Medal of Honour, Royal Horticultural Society 1992
• Gold Medal, American Rhododendron Society 1993
• Royal Caledonian Horticultural Society, Gold medal
• Honorary Degree University of St Andrews 2005
• Lifetime Achievement Award, Nurseryman & Garden Centre Awards 2002
• MBE 2013 Buckingham Palace
• Book Seeds of Adventure written with Sir Peter Hutchison won the Garden Media Guild Award Inspirational Book of the Year 2008.

Peter Cox – Glendoick Bibliography

Peter Cox’s books are widely recognised as the definitive works on the genus Rhododendron, there is a book to suit every level of interest from the complete beginner to the keenest collector.

Modern Rhododendrons, Nelson 1956. Euan H.M. Cox and Peter A. Cox.

Modern Shrubs, Nelson 1958. Euan H.M. Cox and Peter A. Cox.

Modern Trees, Nelson 1961. Euan H.M. Cox and Peter A. Cox.

The Royal Horticultural Society's Wisley Handbook Rhododendrons,  Peter Cox. A beginners guide. (5 editions-first published 1971.)

Dwarf Rhododendrons, Batsford, 1973, Peter A. Cox

The Larger Species of Rhododendron, Batsford, 1979, 1981, Peter A. Cox. Cultivation information and species descriptions.

The Smaller Rhododendrons, Batsford 1985  Peter Cox- cultivation information and species and hybrid descriptions.

The Larger Rhododendron Species Batsford 1990. Updated version of The larger Species.

Encyclopedia of Rhododendron Hybrids- 1988. Peter & Kenneth Cox. 1800 hybrids described + many photographs. A critical guide to choosing from the multitude of hybrids on offer.

Cox’s Guide to Choosing Rhododendrons 1990. Peter & Kenneth Cox. A 'which' guide to making a rhododendron collection. An excellent  aid in choosing the best plants for different conditions. Lots of fine photographs.

The Cultivation of Rhododendrons P.A. Cox. Batsford  1993. This well-illustrated book summarises the author's lifetime's experience in cultivating rhododendrons.

The Encyclopedia of Rhododendron Species Glendoick Publishing 1997 Culmination of a lifetime's work. 415 pages, an illustrated guide to all the temperate species of rhododendron illustrated with 1500+ photographs. 5 years in the writing, this is the definitive book on the subject of rhododendron species. 2nd Edition 2000.

Seeds of Adventure Antique Collectors Club 2008 (with Sir Peter Hutchison). Lavishly Illustrated account of 20 plant hunting expeditions.  Winner of Garden Media Guild Inspirational Book of the Year 2008

Peter Cox wrote 13 books and 100s of articles for specialist publications, Country Life and many other journals.

Peter Cox – Gardener

Peter served for many years on the Gardens Committee of the National Trust for Scotland and on the Board of Trustees of the Dundee Botanic Garden.  Peter Cox was a modest and shy man, who had a pronounced stammer and preferred to be gardening at Glendoick or climbing Chinese mountains in search of plants to being the centre of attention. And yet he truly was the world’s ‘Mr Rhododendron’. It is doubtful that anyone has ever known as much or achieved so much in this field and it is doubtful anyone ever will.

Peter and Tricia Cox celebrated their golden wedding in 2013. Peter loved dogs, (black labradors), table tennis, bridge, shooting, wild birds, cricket and talking horticulture and plant hunting with fellow enthusiasts. 

Peter Cox died on 8th April 2025, aged 91.

Cadix (UK) Limited has ceased trading with immediate effect. The decision brings to a close over a quarter of a century of trading, during which Cadix established itself as a leading name in the supply of stylish and innovative outdoor pots and planters to the UK market.

Cadix (UK) has served as the UK distributor for the well-known Dutch brand, Capi Europe, introducing British retailers and consumers to a wide range of high-quality, sustainable, and design-led products. The company has been recognised for its trend-led approach, strong customer service, and commitment to offering contemporary garden solutions.

Cadix’s Kate Ebbens said: "It is with great sadness that we must confirm the closure of Cadix with immediate effect. It’s been an incredible journey, and I am so thankful to all those who have supported us – from loyal customers and suppliers to our fantastic team – over the years. The Cadix name has been a familiar one in the industry for a long time, and I’m incredibly proud of what we have achieved."

Cadix UK would like to extend its sincere thanks to its customers, colleagues and industry partners for their support and loyalty throughout the years.

Customers with existing or open orders are invited to contact the Capi Europe team directly at sales@capi-europe.com to discuss next steps.

Please note Kate Ebbens’ mobile number remains unchanged.

Sipcam Home & Garden has joined other garden industry bodies and suppliers in a new initiative aimed at helping gardeners get better results from peat-free compost and help accelerate the UK’s transition away from peat. 

The campaign aims to spread far and wide, new guidance from the horticultural sector on how to grow successfully using peat-free compost.

Nigel Thompson, Head of Sales & Marketing at Sipcam Home & Garden commented on joining the campaign: “We’re absolutely thrilled to support this initiative. Education is key to helping gardeners make the most of peat-free compost, and we’re passionate about providing the knowledge and tools needed for success.

"By working together, we can support gardeners in making more sustainable choices while ensuring their plants thrive. We can’t wait to contribute to this important movement and inspire more people to grow greener!”

The importance of going peat-free is not clear to everybody and only 30% of people with a garden say they consistently purchase peat-free options. Peat extraction is highly damaging to the environment, so it’s essential the gardening industry help growers and gardeners switch to peat-free products.

Sipcam Home & Garden has joined 18 other horticultural organisations in contributing to expert guidance led by Enrich the Earth.

The migration over to peat-free compost all depends on educating gardeners and this initiative comes at the right time to help everyone in horticulture create #PeatFreeSuccess! Download & share the Peat-Free Success guide by clicking here!

At Formbar, we’ve been working closely with garden centres for over 15 years, and we know just how passionate and community-driven this industry is. That’s why we felt it was the perfect time to launch something special – our brand-new Garden Centre Monthly Newsletter!

This newsletter is designed for garden centres - with your seeds of thought and we water!

Linda Taylor, Garden Centre Account Manager said: “Every month, you can expect to see news, smart ideas to improve the retail experience in your garden centre, seasonal promotions, exclusive offers, and real stories from garden centres just like yours. Because let’s face it – we all love hearing what other garden centres are up to!”

If you’re not already receiving your copy straight to your inbox, don’t miss out! Click here to subscribe.

Expect to hear about trends in garden retail, challenges others are facing, and how they overcame them. Plus, events to attend or ideas for creating promotions from. Take a peek at February’s newsletter, the second edition.

Linda explained, “We see it as your newsletter and invite contributions from garden centre managers and their teams. You shape the newsletter so let me know what you’d like to see.”

Get ready to join the conversation with other garden centres, share your stories and let Linda know what you’d like to see. We can’t wait to welcome you to our garden centre hub!

Subscribe today and become part of a supportive community that’s all about sharing, learning, and thriving together.

And if you ever need expert guidance on making the best buying decisions for your garden centre, Linda Taylor, your dedicated Garden Centre Account Manager, is always here to help.

GTN April 2025. In this issue: The war for talent – More People on how to secure the best candidates, Backing the brand – RHS Licensed products maximise sales, Country Forge – RHS-endorsed from Tildenet, Bramblecrest blossoms with the RHS, Stars come out for Blue Diamond, Plan ahead for spoga+gafa 2025, New beginnings for centres part 2, Best foot forward for Greenfingers – Garden Re-Leaf Day 2025, Floral farewell – GTN interview’s Stuart Lowen, Bedding and seasonal bonanza - GTN Planteria, Addressing misconceptions about SOLEX – LOFA Viewpoint, Boosting business development - HTA Viewpoint, Sunshine, sales and supply – GIMA Viewpoint.