[Derek Bunker and Bob Hewitt at Glee 2015 on crutches! Nick Davies was “the most popular man at Glee” according to Glee Daily News in 2014. The Stig at Grange, Glee 2013. A youthful Matthew Mein welcomes everyone to Glee 2013]

This week is the last chance for you to make your nominations for: 

• Most Influential Person of the last 50 years
• The Character of Glee's 50 years
• Hero Product of the last 50 years
• Hero Plant of the last 50 years

As the Glee exhibition gets set to celebrate half a century at the heart of the garden retail sector, the organising team is looking for your input. In the past 50 years, Glee has seen thousands of exhibitors pass through its doors, with hundreds of thousands of new products launched since the show’s humble beginnings in 1974. To celebrate the newness and passion that have shaped Glee and the broader garden centre market during this time, the hunt is now on to find the people and product that have driven the most change over the past five decades.

Whether advocating for sustainability or using their influence to increase the reach of horticulture, many diverse people have left their mark on the world of garden retail. They might be suppliers, retailers, industry pundits, or those who have undertaken roles across the full spectrum. Whatever their role, all of them have been integral to Glee's growth, and their work has helped maintain gardening as one of the nation's best-loved pastimes.

Or perhaps the best memories of Glee involve a larger-than-life character. This person may play a starring role in Glee’s memoirs, providing endless smiles, friendly advice and happy recollections from those that knew them pacing the aisles of shows gone by.

Like the people who create them, gardening products have also generated pivotal moments of change. From finally tackling an age-old problem, formulating an innovative bestseller opportunity, opening a meaningful dialogue about gardening's impact on the planet, or simply using technology to make gardening more accessible for the modern consumer, there have been many hero products over the past half century.

Now is the time for Glee's audience to vote for their own heroes and celebrate the people and product they think have had the most impact on Glee's future and that of the garden retail sector.

How to make your nominations

Working in partnership with Glee's media partner, Garden Trade News, nominations are now open using this link. The deadline for making nominations is 31st May.

• Most Influential Person of the last 50 years, click here
• The Character of Glee's 50 years, click here
• Hero Product of the last 50 years, click here
• Hero Plant of the last 50 years, click here

Or send your nominations by e-mail to: trevor@pottingshedpress.co.uk  (All nominations will be dealt with in the strictest confidence)

Following the nominations round, a panel of judges will draw a shortlist of names and products before readers of GTN Xtra and Glee Daily News can place their final votes throughout June and July.

The winners will be announced onsite at Glee 2024, the 50th edition of which will run from Tuesday, 10^th September, to Thursday, 12^th September, at the NEC in Birmingham.

Matthew Mein, Event Director at Glee, said: "The gardening world has changed so much from the early 70s, with each decade ringing in exciting new trends and innovation. Throughout all of this, Glee has maintained a constant presence, year-after-year providing a place where the garden retail sector can come together to inspire, network and educate. Now, we want to celebrate those who have left a mark in a fun and reflective look back on Glee's half-century. We're excited to see the nominations, find out the eventual winners, and are prepared for a tidal wave of nostalgia and questionable haircuts!"

Glee connects the garden industry to inspire change, drive growth, and promote innovation. To find out more or to register your interest in exhibiting, please visit www.gleebirmingham.com or call +44 (0)203 3545 9752.

There’s no doubt that a buyer’s life is made simpler by the ease of ordering online from a wide range of companies.  However, there is no comparison to visiting a supplier showroom in person and being able to fully appreciate the look, feel and quality of a product. There is also no substitute for immersing yourself in a creative space that will inspire and motivate you when putting together floral, Christmas and seasonal collections….and Floralsilk’s centrally located, 6,500 square foot showroom does just that.

The leading destination for buyers looking for exceptional Floral, Autumn and Christmas ranges, Floralsilk’s showroom has something to meet even the most discerning buyer’s requirements.

Reasons to visit the Floralsilk showroom:

1. At the heart of their showroom experience lies the unveiling of the newest collections, creatively curated to predict market trends and inspire your customers. Mark your calendars for July 1st, as Floralsilk will be proudly launching their much-anticipated Spring/Summer 2025 collection.
2. The showroom offers an opportunity for buyers to place their Autumn/Winter orders as early as December but is also flexible enough to accommodate seasonal needs throughout the whole year, depending on stock availability.
3. It’s always Christmas in this industry and Floralsilk’s showroom provides the perfect platform to top up on Christmas 2025 essentials so you can be guaranteed a great Christmas selling season.
4. Their beautiful ceramic and stone vase collection.  Beautifully natural and available in a wide variety of sizes, tones and finishes, this vase collection is perfect for both retail displays and selling for home decoration.
5. Go simply to be inspired.  Visiting the Floralsilk showroom gives a glimpse into what trends are predicted for the coming year, how you can incorporate them into your own collections and their impressive displays are great for getting visual merchandising ideas.

Visit the Floralsilk showroom by appointment from Monday to Friday, between 8:30am and 5:00pm. Their knowledgeable staff will be on hand to assist you and provide expert advice on choosing the perfect products for your business.

Book your appointment now by emailing sales@floralsilk.co.uk or calling 01778 425205.

www.floralsilk.co.uk/trade

Two charging points for 22kW car charging are also available.

The Planters Group have been longstanding stockists of Meadow View Stones decorative aggregates and paving at their Tamworth, Bretby and Garden King stores.  

The Group, have always been accommodating in trialing Meadow Views latest innovations, in both products and merchandising, so it was a logical step for their new Centre, Brookfields at Nottingham to be the first to trial the Company’s new Themed POS. 

Three Themed POS displays were constructed which featured inspirational gardens that correlated products to a common theme, be it a design trend, colour theme or specific project. These inspiring graphics and stunning display gardens have resulted in increased uptake in the products directly displayed, many of which were in the higher RRP price points.  

Feedback from staff and customers has been very encouraging, with one customer stating “I never thought of using stepping stones to create a pathway, I am definitely going to recreate that in the spring.”    

Staff were equally happy with the ample space for maneuvoring pallets and were keen to praise the setup, the colorful, bright, and easy to read POS signage and the transformation it had delivered to the entrance to the Centre, which couldn’t fail to impress customers.

To transform your product range, sales performance and visual aspect of this category in your Centre email a member of the Meadow View Stone’s team info@meadowviewstone.co.uk

British garden machinery company Handy will be showcasing its extensive product ranges and highlighting its support for dealers in its biggest-ever garden machinery event, Handy LIVE 2024, which will be held at the prestigious Moulton Grange Country Estate in Northamptonshire on Thursday 5th September.

The first event of its kind for Handy, it combines the latest expo on Handy’s garden machinery with a full day’s entertainment, whilst also providing guests with exclusive on-the-day offers and bespoke point-of-sale opportunities to help dealers/retailers maximise earning potential.

Handy’s brands - Webb, The Handy, Greenworks and AVA – will be on display and available for guests to get hands on with. This will include cordless, petrol, electric and hand powered lawnmowers, line trimmers, hedge trimmers, pole saws, chainsaws, blowers & vacuums, tillers, trolleys, spreaders, log splitters, pressure washers and more. In an exclusive preview, the new Webb Eco 20V Cordless Battery range will also be launched on the day. 

Live demonstrations from gardening experts Adam Woolcott (a Chelsea multiple award winner) and Tommy Cross (TV presenter) will run throughout the day. Plus, guests will have the chance to become target experts and try their hand at a spot of air rifle shooting and axe throwing, all set against the breathtaking backdrop of Moulton Grange Country Estate.

Mark Moseley, Handy’s Sales & Marketing Director, comments: “This event gives us the perfect opportunity to showcase our fantastic product range and highlight the extensive support and service we have in place to help dealers to get the most out of our products.”

Tickets are limited so to secure a place at Handy LIVE 2024 book your tickets at https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/handy-live-dealer-event-tickets-893685767187 or visit www.handys.co.uk

As the National Trust and Blue Diamond Octavia Hill Garden, designed by Anne-Marie Powell and the Blue Diamond Team, were presented with the Peoples Choice Award at Chelsea Flower show on Friday, Alan Roper spoke to GTN Xtra about winning the biggest accolade of the show:

"When I turned up and saw the garden on Sunday before the show opened for the first time, having been coming to Chelsea for 20 years and just looking at the complexity and variety and the colour palette of the planting, I knew in my heart that this was a gardener’s garden and therefore it would get the People's Choice Award. I knew that on Sunday, and I'm glad that we've been validated by the people that matter, our customers, gardeners, they rightly saw this as a garden that they could relate to and be inspired by. It's been a huge journey, I remember it was two years ago when I said to National Trust, let's do a garden. It took an amount of time to persuade them to fund half of it. I wanted from the start my Blue Diamond team to be a part of the design process. And they learnt a lot under Anne-Marie Powell on that journey. So, I'll say a really big thank you all of them, and they've really enjoyed it.

"I think part of the journey has been enjoying the journey. It's not just about the medal. It's just being part of something that's quite special and of course, this goes back to Bridgemere Show Gardens to join our 15 other gardens, which is great that it's going back there, particularly now it's been voted People's Choice. Bernard, who manages the Bridgemere Gardens has already told me I'm going to need an extra 20 hours a week to look after it because of all the planting. He said a really good quote; "it's the only garden that you'd want to live with."

"I've said to the team, and there's a lot of time to go, but in three years’ time I'd like to be back to do another show garden. But this time with what they've learned of the process, this will be a Blue Diamond design garden. And I don't care if we come out with a no medal or a bronze, but it would be lovely to see if we as a team can produce a show garden. Yes. And so, I've earmarked three years’ time, I'll be 65, so that's quite a nice round number to do it. And three years gives us plenty of time to try and do justice to the main avenue. So that's the plan.

"The one thing I try to do is give people ownership and allow people with passion and creativity to thrive in a business. I've got a lot of great people with passion and energy. So I think with them we can really have a go and do something for three years time.

"Last week I think it was pretty tough for the industry, trade wise, it wasn't the brilliant week. I don't know where that came from because I thought the weather was okay after the bank holiday week when we were 30% up. I've not had any feedback from the centres regarding Chelsea feedback from customers as I've been buried in buying another garden centre. We'll be able to tell you at the end of June when it's all gone through.

British Garden Centres recently assisted chef and author Jamie Oliver as he opened a newly renovated garden at Great Bradfords Junior School in Braintree, Essex, to mark the publication of his second children’s book, BILLY AND THE EPIC ESCAPE. The garden renovation, sponsored by Puffin Books, was significantly enhanced by the generous donation of plants from Braintree Garden Centre, part of the BGC family.

The garden features planting spaces for flowers, herbs, fruits, and vegetables, alongside brand-new reading nooks and bookshelves, providing children with serene outdoor spaces to enjoy stories. The renovation was carried out by local landscaper LEX Building Services, with the vibrant array of plants donated by Braintree Garden Centre, which the pupils will enjoy as they learn about gardening and nature.

During the visit, Jamie talked to pupils from the school including members of the gardening club, and student librarians, as well as pupils who struggle with reading – something Jamie himself experienced as a child due to his diagnosis with dyslexia. He shared his experiences with the children and listened to theirs, discussing the idea of it being okay to do things your way, particularly that there are many ways to enjoy and create stories.

Speaking about his book, Jamie Oliver said: “The brilliant thing about stories – whether you read them or listen to them – is that they can transport you to magical worlds and take you on incredible adventures. But stories can also help you understand yourself and show you that everyone has different ways of doing things. And that’s why I’m super excited to be publishing my second book, which I hope will open new worlds to the children that read – or listen! – to Billy’s new adventure.”   

Francesca Dow, MD at Puffin Books, commented: “When Jamie first spoke about his idea for Billy and the Giant Adventure, he inspired me with his story and his passion that as a parent or carer, above most things you want for your child to love good healthy food and love reading. The two are beautifully intertwined in Jamie's Billy stories. Puffin has always been about sparking children's imaginations, and we're proud to publish many different authors and books to inspire varied tastes. So, it feels very fitting to celebrate BILLY AND THE EPIC ESCAPE, Jamie’s second children’s book with us, by sponsoring a garden with gorgeous reading spaces uniting these two important factors in childhood development.”

Mr Wrench, Headteacher of Great Bradfords Junior School said: “We are delighted with our new gardening area. The area has been transformed and is an excellent space for children to enjoy planting and growing along with reading outdoors for pleasure. We can’t thank Jamie, his publishers Puffin, British Garden Centres and LEX Building Services enough for this opportunity and the children will love using this space!”

Lisa Capper of Braintree Garden Centre said: "Jamie Oliver's dedication to nurturing children's imagination and connection with nature is truly commendable, and the team at Braintree Garden Centre are thrilled to have contributed to the renovation of the garden at Great Bradfords Junior School. We hope the pupils enjoy the garden and explore the vibrant array of plants that will provide enjoyment for years to come.”

Just as the Summer season ends, building work will begin on new storage infrastructure at Gloucestershire’s Highfield Garden World.  The project promises to transform the way the family business can store and control stock.  Once the c.£300k build is complete, the £9m turnover independent will have quadrupled the amount of covered storage space it has on-site to 740m², with another 100m² of open-sided covered space adjacent. 

Highfield Director Tim Armstrong commented;  “Since COVID, we’ve found many of the companies supplying us work on different principles and availability of stock is simply less predictable.  With the new warehouse up and running we’ll be better able to ride out the peaks and troughs of stock availability, as well as take advantage of good Choice Marketing deals when they pop up – even for bulky items such as furniture.  We’ll also be able to pass those savings on to our customers.”

Tim continued;  “Staff will have lots of space to process stock behind the scenes rather than on the shop floor which we currently need to do – minimising disruption to the customers’ experience.   Overall, having a more efficient way of processing our stock will leave staff with more time to spend out and about talking to and helping customers.  Many of our staff and our customers have been with us for a long time and have got to know each other.  Having friendly, knowledgeable staff talking to customers is an important part of what makes Highfield so special.”

Planning permission for the new warehousing structure was granted this Spring.  Work is due to start in September and complete in early 2025.  Highfield will project manage the new development themselves, using local companies that they have worked well with before.

As the RHS Chelsea Flower Show captured the nation's attention, the Horticultural Trades Association released its Market Update for May, reflecting on the performance of garden centres in April 2024.

April 2024 proved challenging for garden centres across the UK, as the weather, along with the year-on-year comparisons reflecting an earlier Easter, meant overall garden centre sales were down -10% versus April 2023. The increase in rainfall, 1.5 times that of last year, significantly impacted footfall and outdoor gardening activities. However, the year to end of April sales were +2% vs 2023, which eliminates the Easter effect, and it is hoped that as the weather improves and spring/summer bedding comes into its own, along with the inspiration from TV coverage of Chelsea, it will reignite a passion to get back out into the garden.

Catering Sales: A bright spot in April’s performance was the 7% increase in catering sales compared to April 2023, with transactions up by 5%. As rainy weather deterred outdoor activities, consumers turned to garden centre cafes and restaurants for indoor leisure, highlighting the importance of diversified offerings in weather-dependent industries. 

Consumer Confidence: Consumer confidence rose modestly, increasing by 2 points to -19. This figure remains 14 points higher than April 2023, indicating a more optimistic consumer outlook despite challenging weather and economic conditions. Wage growth continues to outstrip the rate of inflation (which has been gradually falling over the last year) bringing a boost to household finances. 

Hardy Plants Sales: Hardy plant sales have declined 6% year-to-date up to the end of April compared to the same period in 2023, reflecting the overall downturn in plants and core gardening purchases due to the weather. 

Newly launched quarterly HTA & APL Business Barometer: this is to assess the state of trade for members, including business outlook, sales and profit positions, and business investments. The Q1 poll results show that on average members were -1% behind budgets in terms of sales/order book values, but -5% where they expected to be in terms of net profits. The full HTA & APL Business Barometer Q1 2024 results summary will be released to members shortly. 

HTA Chief Executive Fran Barnes commented: “April’s unseasonably high rainfall created tough conditions for gardening enthusiasts, resulting in a notable decrease in garden centre sales. Despite these challenges, May always offers a timely boost in inspiration, encouraging gardeners to prepare for the upcoming summer months.

“While garden/gardening categories suffered a decline of 14% due to the adverse weather and an earlier Easter in March, non-garden/gardening categories remained steady compared to April 2023 and even saw a 9% increase from 2022. This resilience is promising as it suggests potential for recovery as we move into the warmer months. Coupled with the flower show season from village to national level and increased media coverage on gardening at this time of year, playing a crucial role in inspiring both seasoned gardeners and newcomers, we expect to see a positive impact on garden centre sales in the coming weeks.

“However, we are still mindful that our sector continues to grapple with significant changes in border regulations affecting the import of plants and plant products. Since January 2021, businesses have faced increased costs and administrative burdens, further compounded by new border changes implemented in April 2024. This all impacts the sector's competitiveness and ability to invest and grow. We continue to communicate our concerns to the Government.

“Our market update underscores the importance of flexibility in retail strategies to adapt to changing weather patterns, consumer behaviours, and external issues. The HTA continues to support its members by providing insights and advocating for favourable conditions in the horticulture sector.” 

The Garden Centre Association’s Barometer of Trade for April shows clothing and catering leading the way when compared to the same month last year.

There was also a positive, 3.77%, year-to-date variance, but 10 of the 13 categories recorded were down when likened to April 2023 according to figures from the organisation’s member garden centres.

Peter Burks, GCA CEO, explains: “As expected, with Easter having fallen in March this year, the April figures do not look very encouraging and definitely back-up the sentiments I heard on my visits to our members during the month.

“Our smaller centres did much better than the larger ones, actually managing to be up a little bit, but overall, the average was down by 5%. There were only two categories producing positive results – clothing and, once again, catering, which is still coming good and suggesting that there were plenty of people in the centres, but the weather was stopping them from buying plants, furniture and other gardening items.

“However, it’s not all doom and gloom as anecdotal evidence from our members suggests May has already started off well, boosted by the much better weather. We’ve had one reasonably good Bank Holiday and hope the next one to come will be even nicer.”

Excluding the miscellaneous section (+21.33%), the GCA’s top performing category in April 2024 was clothing, up +14.43%, when compared to the same month in 2023. This was followed by catering +13.05%.

Food hall/farm shop came in next at -1.28%, then hard landscaping at -1.5%, garden sundries at -1.97%, gifts -2.44%, seeds & bulbs -2.74%, houseplants -5.99%, pet & aquatics -6.76%, and Christmas at -7.96%.

Bringing up the rear were outdoor plants at -10.25% and furniture & BBQs -11.08%.

The GCA 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 expansion of Perrywood Garden Centre is back on track, after amended plans to make the development more feasible were approved.

Babergh District Council granted formal permission to a revised proposal by the garden centre, allowing its expansion to be revived.

Hannah Powell, Perrywood’s Communications & HR Director, said: “The amended plans maintain the original footprint approved in 2022 but include a rationalised design to ensure the best value for money, an amended car park design to include an open swale drainage scheme, and it splits the works into three smaller phases. We are out to tender for the first of these phases and look forward to getting the project underway.”

The business had previously received the green-light in 2021, for a new garden centre building – including a restaurant and an outdoor sales area – plus a glasshouse and store.

However, the scheme was shelved the following year, after Perrywood deemed it was no longer financially viable in its current form, amid spiraling costs.

To address these issues, the firm submitted a fresh.

The Octavia Hill Garden by Blue Diamond with the National Trust has been awarded The People’s Choice Award at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2024.  

The award caps a successful week for the garden, which took a Silver-Gilt Award and the first ever RHS Children’s Choice Award, which saw London primary school children act as ‘junior judges’ to choose their favourite garden.  

The garden was designed by Ann-Marie Powell, who took inspiration from the legacy of Octavia Hill (1838-1912) [2], a social reformer and co-founder of the National Trust. She campaigned for much of her life to preserve green space and footpaths, so that people – especially those living in cities – could benefit from ‘the healthy gift of air and the joy of plants and flowers’. 

Garden designer Ann-Marie Powell said: “Every Chelsea designer hopes for an award from the judges - it represents the pinnacle of horticulture. But I couldn’t be prouder that the public have chosen us for the People’s Choice Award. After all, our garden is an urban community wildlife garden, designed as a set of outdoor sitting rooms where people can be among vibrant plants, calming water and pollinators busy among the blooms.  

“To hear that people have responded to that, as a space they love and would want to use, just fills me with joy. Octavia Hill was right all those years ago – green space isn’t a luxury. We all crave it and it enriches our lives, and the world around us, in countless ways.  

“I hope that message flies far and is heard by everyone who cares about and shapes our urban environments. Our health, and the state of nature, matters too much to dismiss green space as unimportant. It matters, and it always has.”  

Andy Jasper, National Trust Director of Gardens and Parklands, said: “There’s never been a better time to invest in gardens that make our neighbourhoods havens for people, nature and wildlife. Our founder, Octavia Hill, showed us the value of green spaces and they’re still at the heart of so much that our charity does.  

“We couldn’t be happier to have won this award. The public have spoken loud and clear: they love what they have seen. Tarmac, concrete and artificial turf are our enemies – the way forward is investing in good design, inspired planting and skilled horticulturists to make it happen.”  

Alan Roper, Blue Diamond Managing Director, said: “For me this was the Award I wanted to win the most because I feel the public voted for a true gardener's garden. A garden that is the most relatable for people to be inspired by.” 

Following the show, the garden will be rebuilt at Blue Diamond owned Bridgemere Garden Centre, an RHS Partner Garden, in Nantwich, Cheshire, so that people can continue to enjoy it for many years to come. 

To date, 15 brave souls have strapped themselves atop a biplane to swoop across the Cotswold countryside in aid of the Greenfingers Charity. Now, with 3rd September earmarked for the 2024 Greenfingers Wing Walk, the charity is issuing a rallying call to the industry not to miss out on the chance to wing walk into the Greenfingers Hall of Fame!

Taking place at the AeroSuperBatics headquarters at RAF Rendcomb Airfield, the 2024 Wing Walk will see daring new flyers join the exclusive list of those that have taken part in this adrenaline-fuelled adventure before them.  To date, the impressive list boasts names, such as GIMA’s Vicky Nuttall, Evergreen’s Mark Portman, British Garden Centres’ Phillippa Stubbs, Kimberley Hornby, Managing Director of Hornby George PR as well as SBM’s Lowri Walker – the first person to ever complete the loop-the-loop in aid of Greenfingers!

Supporting the Wingwalkers on the day will be the expert pilots from AeroSuperBatics, the team behind the Breitling Wingwalkers, a much-loved display act at UK airshows. Upon arrival at the airfield, all participants will be briefed before being strapped to the top wing of the historic biplane. Wingwalkers will then experience the roar of the plane’s 450hp Pratt & Whitney engine – the largest and most powerful engine operated in the UK for wing walking – with the propeller hitting speeds of up to 760mph at full throttle! Once the flight is underway, wingwalkers will only be able to communicate with their pilot via hand signals, as the plane performs daredevil flypasts, zoom climbs, steep dives and banks in front of friends and family. Greenfingers supporters are also welcome to come along on the day to encourage these courageous souls!

To date Russell Thompson, Sales Merchandiser at the AMES Companies and Hornby George PR’s Kimberley Hornby have confirmed their place on the 2024 roster, with Kimberley completing her loop the loop. She said: “There are a million different ways to support the Greenfingers Charity and I like to do it by scary myself stupid! It’s not everyday you get to strap yourself to the top of a plane, safe in the knowledge that you’re raising essential funds for such a deserving charity, so I urge anyone considering taking part to get their name on the list now. It’s such a brilliant day, you won’t regret it!”

Russell added: “I wanted to do the wing walk because I have seen the work Greenfingers and its volunteers do and how it changes and improves people’s lives who need it. I believe that if people have the opportunity to help people they should. Being able to represent my company, raise money for a great cause and be able to have fun whilst doing it for me is a no brainier!”

Find out more

With a maximum of eight spaces available, there is plenty of opportunity for people to push themselves outside of their comfort zone to raise vital funds for the charity.

To register your interest, please contact Linda Petrons, Greenfingers Director of Fundraising & Communications by emailing linda@greenfingerscharity.org.uk.

Andrew Baker, the former Financial Director of timber outdoor decorative structures, garden furniture and GYO specialist Zest, has been appointed as the new Managing Director, and Steve Morgan will serve as the company Chairman.

Steve Morgan has been Zest’s MD since the company was founded in 2005 and MD of the P&A Group for 25 years.  He took over from his father, P&A’s founder Malcolm Morgan.  Andrew Baker has worked with the business for 16 years and in the last ten years has been Financial Director.  The move comes as Zest continues its vision to become the premier consumer choice for outdoor living solutions, setting ambitious growth plans while also addressing the key challenges in the industry.  

Zest’s range fits perfectly into the outdoor environment with its proposition of growing, cooking, dining, relaxing, and entertaining in any size of garden or outdoor space.  Steve explained, “I am completely confident in the consumer’s desire to find a more natural and sustainable way of life, utilising the benefits of the outdoors.  We have adopted a market-oriented approach and are embracing change and innovation in order to meet customer needs effectively.  This strategy has seen the Zest brand invest in consumer research and product development, a marketing and innovation centre, consumer-focused marketing including leading consumer print and online titles, consumer shows and powerful digital, social and influencer programmes.  This has been over and above its extensive marketing support for garden centres and online garden retailers.”

Commenting on the change of roles, Steve Morgan said, “Zest is on a journey of investment, market driving understanding and consumer brand building alongside proactive trade customer support. As we demonstrate just how successful we can be in that space, it is the perfect time for me to focus on free thinking, entrepreneurial endeavour, exploring all opportunities – including non-seasonal ones - to realise ‘the next big thing’ time and time again.  So, it’s vital that the right person is empowered to deliver on company performance and all the strategic developments we need to ensure we implement our ambitions successfully.  To that end I have been working with Andy to broaden his role over the last several years, knowing that he has the drive, interest, and commitment to deliver.”

Commenting on his appointment, Andrew said, “I am honoured and excited to be offered the MD role.  With my extensive experience of business finance, I have also invested time in appreciating the potential of marketing and strategic brand development as well as immersing myself in operations and all other aspects of the business.   Steve has always encouraged and provided direction, and now I am delighted to be able to build on the foundation he has created.   Especially knowing that I have his support and entrepreneurial input as Zest continues to move forward on plan.  This is all about excellence, impulsivity, and harnessing the power of innovation through customer understanding.  I am focused on key objectives, including sustainable financial growth, market orientation, and diversification.”

In his Zest career to date, Andrew has been a lead on over 14 years of chosen charity initiatives ensuring the company raises thousands of pounds for a range of charities.  He is a keen marathon runner, and employee health and wellbeing is a key factor for the whole company.  He explained, “Fundraising is more than raising money, it’s about fostering a community of support, understanding, and compassion. We firmly believe that spending time with others, immersing ourselves in the great outdoors and engaging in physical activity are not just hobbies but essential tools in our arsenal against the struggles of mental health.”

As outdoor leisure buyers get ready to secure 2025 stock at the forthcoming SOLEX exhibition, the team at LifestyleGarden – the brand behind ground-breaking material innovation and a commitment to bringing to market responsible furniture solutions – is making final preparations for what is set to be its busiest show yet!

Whilst details are firmly under wraps for now, the team has teased a few details that are sure to pique interest…

A new concept in compact living

Urban living, rising house prices and a spiralling rental market are all contributing to more and more of us living with smaller outdoor spaces. Recognising this, LifestyleGarden is poised to launch an entirely new concept that will provide these consumers with stylish, carefully-considered and responsibly-manufactured products that are specifically designed to fit these spaces.

What’s more, this new concept will open up new sales opportunities for retailers; opportunities that have never before been available within the outdoor leisure marketplace.

Breathing new life

Over the years, LifestyleGarden has become well known for setting the benchmark when it comes to material advancement, and this year’s SOLEX will build on this further. Look out for a new generation of wicker, plus an all-new chair made from repurposed plastic. Elsewhere, visitors will be given insight into the ongoing partnership with educational charity the Eden Project, as well as Plastic Bank, with whom the company has collaborated with to prevent well over 27.5million plastic bottles (and counting!) from reaching the world’s oceans.

Paul Cohen, Commercial Director at LifestyleGarden, said: “At SOLEX, our mission – to create beautiful, comfortable, and long-lasting products, whilst ‘Doing Business the Right Way’ – will be on show for all to see. We have new products that continue our social responsibility approach to developing outdoor furniture, as well as an entirely new concept that is set to shake the marketplace up. For us, 2025 is earmarked to be a year of change for our retail customers, and our yet-to-be-revealed concept is the first step on this journey.”

Find out more

LifestyleGarden® will be found on stand XXXX at the forthcoming SOLEX exhibition which takes place Tuesday 9th – Thursday 11th July at the NEC, Birmingham.

To see more of LifestyleGarden® ‘s existing product portfolio, please visit www.lifestylegarden.co.uk

Garden retailers across the UK have lined up an exciting series of events for National Children’s Gardening Week to encourage families out into the garden and to Grow with Peter Rabbit this May half term from 25 May to 2 June 2024.  

This May half term, National Children’s Gardening Week has partnered with The World of Peter Rabbit.  Not only will there be free Grow with Peter Rabbit activity booklets available for customers to collect from participating garden centres packed full of mischievous and fun activities, but there will also be a range of events taking place to encourage children to explore the wonder of gardening.

Events include Mini Magical Gardens; a terrarium workshop at Yarnton Home & Garden in Oxfordshire where children will learn how these fascinating self-contained mini gardens work and create their own to take home.  Kershaws Garden Centre in West Yorkshire will host Paint a Pot, free seed planting and a craft morning. Gordon Rigg Garden Centre in Walsden are running gardening-themed crafts and a Peter Rabbit treasure hunt. Lay of the Land Garden Centre in Yorkshire are hosting a seed-sowing event where children can plant sunflowers, beans and pumpkins. Moss and Moor are holding a ‘Create your own mini garden safari’ event where children can explore the diverse world of garden bugs and their vital role in our ecosystem.

You can see more events listed at https://www.childrensgardeningweek.co.uk/gardening-events/

To get involved visit the webpage where you will find everything you need to celebrate National Children’s Gardening Week with Peter Rabbit!  https://www.childrensgardeningweek.co.uk

National Children’s Gardening Week will help support member garden centres with ideas and inspiration and supply easy to use social media content.  There is the opportunity for HTA members to register their events on the website to encourage more visitors.

Follow the hashtags on social media:

#NCGW #ChildrensGardeningWeek #GardeningIsFun #GrowwithPeterRabbit

Facebook @nationalchildrensgardeningweek @officialpeterrabbit

Instagram @officialpeterrabbit

GARDENA unveiled its interactive 2024 Chelsea Flower Show Garden, which focuses on growth and resilience, showcasing the importance of native planting, water harvesting and clever watering solutions. 

The garden was designed in collaboration with sustainability content creator and eco-designer, Lynne Lambourne for a third year. Providing an interactive experience for attendees, the garden aims to educate and inspire people to re-think the plants they use, and how to care for them in a more sustainable and resilient way. 

Visitors to the world’s most famous five-day flower show are welcome to attend the GARDENA stand located at no. PW194, where they can also get hands on with products, learn about the ways in which they can become more resilient in their gardening practices, and take home a piece of Chelsea by planting their very own pumpkin seed.

The garden showcases a harmonious blend of nature and innovation. Central to its design philosophy is the promotion of biodiversity through the cultivation of plants that attract and sustain pollinators. By fostering a rich and diverse ecosystem, the garden exemplifies how small-scale interventions can yield significant environmental benefits. GARDENA also partnered with a group of like-minded suppliers to ensure that all elements of the garden were sustainably sourced.

The display includes a number of clever and efficient GARDENA watering systems, smart systems, moisture sensors and water pumps to inform visitors how they can conserve more water and of course, time. Water is a precious resource and with climate change contributing to its scarcity, one of GARDENA’s missions is to educate gardeners to make more conscious choices in the garden. By maximising the efficient use of water resources on this year’s garden, GARDENA demonstrates how sustainability and practicality can go hand in hand.

The garden features a dedicated potting shed area, where skills and knowledge will be shared. Alongside this, there is a reflective bench where guests can pause, reflect, and reconnect with the natural world. Recognising the integral link between environmental stewardship and mental well-being, the garden showcases the transformative potential of green spaces.

Speaking on the garden, Sarah Bentham, UK Marketing Manager at GARDENA, said: “Following the success of last year, we’re proud to unveil another progressive garden at this year’s RHS Chelsea Flower Show. We want to encourage new gardening practices and highlight how beautifully resilient green spaces can be achieved with the support of GARDENA’s innovative water harvesting tools and systems.

“We hope that everyone leaves feeling inspired to embark on their own journey of resilient gardening, contributing to a brighter, more sustainable future for generations to come.”

Speaking about this year’s design, Lynne Lambourne, said: "We believe that a garden is not just a space for beauty; it's a platform for knowledge-sharing and community-building. Our aim is to inspire visitors to reimagine their gardens as catalysts for positive change."

GARDENA’s 2024 garden can be found at stand no. PW194. Those attending RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2024 are encouraged to come along and chat to the team to find out more.

More information can also be found here: https://www.gardena.com/uk/c/discover/gardening/magazine/chelsea-flower-show-2024

Burgon & Ball, creator of beautiful garden tools since 1730, has won four stars from the Royal Horticultural Society for its stand at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2024.

In its 27th year at the show, the Sheffield-based company has been honoured for the excellent presentation of its stand. The trade stand awards recognise exhibitors which enhance the Chelsea visitor experience by combining creativity, design and theatre in a stand which is not only about product, but which offers an attraction in its own right.

This year Burgon & Ball’s eye-catching display focuses on ‘Fern Fever’, exploring an era when an ancient plant was the height of fashion. In the 19th century pteridomania took horticulture by storm on both sides of the Atlantic – and in today’s changing climate, these resilient plants are increasingly in the spotlight once again. Chelsea visitors can see ferns in many of the gardens at the show this year, and get a glimpse of their horticultural history at the Burgon & Ball stand.

The stand also draws inspiration from a quote from American horticulturalist Liberty Hyde Bailey: ‘Tools of many kinds and well chosen are one of the joys of a garden’. The eye-catching main display puts Burgon & Ball’s extensive collection of RHS-endorsed tools centre stage, showcasing the many trowel designs in the range, including the three GIMA award-winning latest additions.

Rainer Schubert, managing director at Burgon & Ball, says: “We are delighted to receive this four-star award from the judges. As the only garden tools endorsed by the RHS, it means a great deal to us to know that our Chelsea stand more than meets the exacting standards required of exhibitors.

“Every year at Chelsea we work very hard to deliver the highest standard of display, worthy of the high-profile space that we occupy on Main Avenue. We’re in a prestigious position amongst the show gardens and we feel we have a lot to live up to. We’re pleased that the RHS panel feels we have added to the visitor experience with our stand this year.”

Rainer continues: “We invest significantly both in new product development, and in building our brand presence. It’s a combination which means we have exciting new products, and importantly, that gardeners know about them.

“Each year the Chelsea Flower Show is our best and most direct opportunity to get feedback from the gardeners who use and love our products. We’re thrilled that this year both our stand visitors and the RHS judging panel feel that our quality, expertise and innovation are on display on Main Avenue.”

The Horticultural Trades Association hosted a webinar on the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) in collaboration with APHA, Defra, and Border Force officials.  

Following the success of last year’s webinar, initiated by the HTA due to increased reports of compliance challenges, the webinar once again attracted over 100 participants. The session aimed to provide the latest information on regulations for those involved in the movement of trees, plants, seeds and bulbs covered by CITES controls across the UK border. Participants learned about the rules, how to ensure compliance and future developments in policy and system processes. 

Following last year's webinar, the HTA communicated to the UK CITES-responsible bodies the challenges experienced by the sector and the desire to see improvements in user experience. This included a faster processing of import permit applications for live plants and the full digitisation of the CITES application permit process. Attendees also expressed concerns over the handling and destruction of seized plants. While the authorities have made some improvements in these areas, challenges remain in streamlining the processes and communicating the correct information to traders and agents.  

Sally Cullimore, HTA Technical Policy Manager, said: "The high level of attendance and engagement at the HTA's webinars shows the demand for more information and streamlined processes when trading legitimately in artificially propagated CITES plants. It has also highlighted the impact of the requirements on garden centres for common houseplant species like orchids and cacti, as well as carnivorous plants and aloes. CITES checks and permits are an additional piece in the puzzle of cross-border trade and need to be looked at as part of the overarching UK approach to the plant trade. We received welcome news that Defra plans to reform policy and legislation, and we look forward to helping shape that in the near future." 

Further information

• The recording of the webinar, presentations and HTA CITES pages
• Species covered by CITES
• UK Government advice

In a competitive marketplace, adaptability is paramount. Garden retailers are continually seeking innovative solutions to set themselves apart, aiming to craft retail environments that break the mould. Recognising this demand, the team at Apta has introduced the groundbreaking Apta Planting Bench, poised to revolutionise retail spaces this season!

The success of the Apta Planting Bench lies in its versatility; it seamlessly integrates multiple product categories to increase the average basket spend, highlight seasonal offerings, and showcase the latest trends. This curated merchandising approach, often featuring Apta pots alongside seasonal blooms, simplifies the shopping experience, allowing customers to effortlessly 'buy the look'. Furthermore, this display presents an opportunity to showcase an array of Apta pots in one convenient location, featuring various sizes and colour options, thereby showcasing the brand's extensive range.

The value is further augmented with the inclusion of Kelkay’s horticultural grits or growing media, enhancing the ease and confidence of the shopping journey.

To date, hundreds of retail units have been sold into retailers nationwide, including at Yorkshire Garden Centres, who have embraced the Apta Planting Bench, with the latter incorporating two displays within its store. Strategically positioned in the heart of the plant area and the pot and planter section respectively, each Planting Bench is tailored to cater to different consumer preferences. One display focuses on indoor and decorative planting, featuring an array of smaller, ornamental glazed pots, while the other emphasises outdoor container gardening, showcasing larger Olympia composite planters alongside seasonal shrubs for impactful container displays.

Speaking about the impact of these displays, Phil Hemmings from Yorkshire Garden Centres remarked, "The Apta Planting Bench is a remarkably effective retail solution. Within a compact footprint, we can curate endless product combinations, ensuring our displays remain fresh and enticing, often aligning with current events and gifting occasions. We've seen a noticeable shift in our customers' shopping behaviour, with an increase in average basket spend. For us, the Apta Planting Benches are a game-changer, and we’re excited to see what we can create with them as the season unfolds.”

Find out more

Any retailer interested in benefitting from the power of new retailing afforded by the Apta Planting Bench is invited to contact their local AMES Sales rep (find yours at www.apta.co.uk/contact-a-sales-rep).

To stay up to date with all things Apta, including accessing the dedicated trade portal where you will find a comprehensive image library, POS guide and Product Database alongside the 2024 catalogue, please visit www.apta.co.uk. Further details about the AMES Companies by visiting www.ames-uk.com

The Yorkshire Garden Centres group has announced that Yorkshire Children's Charity will be its Charity of the Year for 2024 following a unanimous team vote.

Through a series of fund-raising events and collection boxes at the tills, the teams at Yorkshire Garden Centres' four sites at Tong, Tingley, Otley, and Bingley plus Dean's of York and Scarborough hope to raise £20,000 for the independent charity that aims to transform childhoods and improve the lives of thousands of disadvantaged children in Yorkshire.

The Charity of the Year fundraising is managed by a committee led by the People and Culture team. YGC's Group People and Culture Manager, Steph Harrison said: "Yorkshire Children's Charity aims to make sure no child or young person is left behind due to ill health, disability, or financial circumstance. They help children be who they want to be and get where they want to go, and we're very proud to support the great work that they do."

Plans to raise funds include a cycling sportive organised by the group's directors, a sponsored Three Peaks walk, a Total Warrior challenge plus in-house raffles, bake-off competitions, and collections. A group of 18 cyclists kicked off the fundraising with a challenging 85k cycle ride in the hilly Yorkshire Wolds that raised £4,600 for the charity last weekend.

"We are continuously blown away by the strength of the Yorkshire brand and our ability as a region to come together to do the right thing for children and young people who need our help. So, to find a partner in Yorkshire Garden Centres who so clearly aligns with our vision and mission is just fantastic," said Charlotte Farrington, CEO and Founder of Yorkshire Children's Charity.

Yorkshire Children's Charity was established in 2022 and exists to make things better for children and young people living at a disadvantage in Yorkshire. Through its grant-giving arm, the charity's work takes the pressure off children, young people, and their families by relieving their immediate struggles. Longer term, through intervention-focused project work, the charity aims to break the cycle of intergenerational poverty, resulting in happier, healthier, and more independent children and young people, who are empowered to meet their potential and have the most fulfilling life possible.

To contribute to Yorkshire Garden Centres' fundraising, please visit https://bit.ly/YGCYCC

Since Tong Garden Centre was acquired in 2015, the team and supporters have raised over £80,000 for charity. Previous beneficiaries of the Charity of the Year initiative include Yorkshire Air Ambulance, Forget Me Not Children's Hospice, Luke's Lads,Butterflies Mental Health, The Cellar Trust, Candlelighters and National Literacy Trust. In addition, the team has supported hundreds of smaller charities in the local community through its Kindness Pot initiative.

The Yorkshire Garden Centres (YGC) group comprises Tong, Tingley, Otley and Bingley Garden Centres and the recently acquired Dean's York and Scarborough. Otley and Bingley Garden Centres were known as Stephen H Smith's before they were acquired by YGC in 2022.

Registration is now live for Autumn Fair, the UK’s largest seasonal showcase for Home, Gift & Fashion with over 800 brands confirmed and ready to sell. The show, which takes place on the 1st – 4th September at NEC Birmingham, has also announced that over 25% of the exhibitor line-up is new and over 30% are exclusive to the show, making it the biggest stocked trade show for the third quarter.

Over 12,000 independent retailers and buyers from high street favourites including Tesco, John Lewis, Next, WHSmith, Dunelm, Amazon, ASOS, Boots, Sainsbury’s, TJX, Hamleys, Elphicks, Cardzone, shop the show for an injection of seasonal newness during retail’s peak buying season. With visitors from over 60 countries, 85% of which are actively looking to buy or source new products, Autumn Fair is the key show to meet buyers that buy at this time of year.

Over 70% of Autumn Fair visitors are independent retailers, many of whom attend for much-needed stock for Christmas. Lesley Wallace, owner of Wallace Interiors says, “We visit Autumn Fair every year. September is a good time for the show because it allows us to stock up for Christmas and buy Christmas targeted stock.”

Heather Hall, buyer, Bijou Butterfly visits every year for Christmas stock, “I always come to Autumn Fair every year. My main trade is over the Christmas period, so Autumn Fair is fantastically timed to get my stock in for Christmas.”

Daniel Hodges, buyer, Chatham Historic Dockyard adds, “Been for last 5 years looking for Xmas to keep the shop fresh for the season ahead. Absolutely recommend the show to anyone."

Tasha Richardson, buyer, Snowflake Sentiments has been attending the show since 1993 and new products are top of her agenda, “I’ve been visiting since 1993 to look for new products, finding out what’s new for next year, what’s on trend and what’s not! Always looking for new suppliers and usually find them.”

Longstanding visitor Karen Eatough, owner, Dolly & Joes also welcomes the focus on newness, “We have visited for about 13 years and love coming and finding new suppliers. Everyone so friendly and I love finding new products, there’s always something new to see and never want to leave.”

With 10 definitive product sectors including the latest gifts, greetings, stationery, candles, home décor and accessories, toys, and fashion, the September show will showcase a curated selection of the newest and best-selling products. The 2024 show will also see a greater focus on new and original products, local ‘Best of British’ suppliers and products, and sustainable suppliers.

The new collaboration with online marketplace Faire, will not only help hundreds of exhibiting brands take orders on its platform from retailers attending the show, retailers at Autumn Fair will also gain access to Faire's extensive global network of brands, helping them to discover thousands more unique products and take advantage of a 50 percent discount for new retailers on their first order to help them easily shop at the show and beyond.

In the Gift sector, retailers will find everything from contemporary designs and trend-led ranges to unique, personalised and licensed gifts. Brand new to Autumn Fair, science meets design in Cognitive Surplus’s innovative science-themed collection of stationery, notebooks, bags, apparel and glasses. Visitors will also discover Happy Scent Co, Hilltop Houseware, Essta, Joypots, Keynvor, Lighthome, Pikkii, Pretty Little Signs, Robotime Leisure, Skynamo, Sprinkled with Magic, Sunshine Lane, Gin Etc, Temple of Incense, Akamuti, Kiki & Green, The Chocolate Gift Company, Welink, and The Way to You. Joining the mushroom growing kits revolution with Urban Farm-It or infuse your own gin with Gin Etc.

Toasted Crumpet joins the line-up to showcase its British-made collection of fine bone China mugs, eye-catching range of beautifully designed stationery and giftware, and luxury greetings cards inspired by the glory of British nature. Also championing British-made, the Yorkshire Candle Co will present its popular collection of hand poured candles, home scented products and new award-winning fragrances. Man Cave Scents joins the line-up with its growing collection of candles, wax melts, diffusers and toiletries, and Manley & Moosh brings its luxury, every day skincare for gentlemen.

For the latest smart home technology and gadgets visit newcomers UK Technology in the Gift section. In Greetings & Stationery look out for gorgeous new brands Megan Claire and Rush Design. Regular exhibitor The Art File launches a new brand, Tall Boy Prints - the home of luxury wall art prints from a range of talented artists.

New to the GCA Debut space, meet 5C Designs who digitally recreate their own photographs into artwork, including greeting cards, prints, silk scarves, cosmetic bags, and notebooks. Kids, Toys & Play welcomes Yuko B, a fun French accessories brand inspired by the world and pulsating energy of South Korea; as well as Illuminated Apparel, a fun fashion and gift brand known for its original interactive glow in the dark t-shirts.

Home, Living & Décor, the home of decorative interiors and home décor, is delighted to re-introduce Bravo Lighting to the show after a 7-year break. Yunan Zheng, Operation Director, Bravo Lighting says, “We're excited to return to Autumn Fair, the UK’s leading trade event for lighting solutions. Join us to explore our latest product ranges and innovative designs crafted specifically for retail success. Whether you're a long-time partner or looking to enhance your store's offerings, this is the perfect opportunity to discover how our new collections can brighten your shelves and dazzle your customers. See you there!”

Luxury family-owned interiors brand, Tommy Franks will also present its high quality, handcrafted and timeless designs at Autumn Fair for the first time; and Home and Haven, Luminous Lighting, Misty Looby Studio, and Irest Online showcase as newcomers. Don’t miss the sustainably made woven kitchen textiles from Danish brand Solwang Designs.

Highly inspirational, exclusive and sought-after, The Summerhouse destination brims full of the most beautiful, style-led and on-trend homewares and interior accessories, lifestyle products, and gifts. Discover a stunning array of beautiful new designs perfect for vibrant window displays and tempting Christmas gifts from My Gifts Trade who will be launching new collection; Chic Antique, Chalk UK, Casa Verde, The Satchville Gift Company, and many more. Brand new to the show, The Otters Brook Collection debut their stylish collection of interior design products created to bring a touch of luxury into any space.Handcrafted ceramics, decorative tabletop pieces, distinctive wall art, feature size mirrors, realistic faux flowers, and statement furniture pieces create a unique collection which is a hybrid of classic British living with Nordic influences and a sprinkling of Chinoiserie.

Located at the heart of Autumn Fair, Moda is the trusted destination for sourcing the latest clothing, footwear, fashion accessory and jewellery & watch collections with the latest trends and styles from the most creative brands and designers. Joining the line-up for the first time is Nova of London, one of the UK’s premier wholesaler of ladies’ fashion offering a huge range of beautifully made women's dresses, skirts, tops, jumpsuits, jeans, coats and much more. Milly Cooper-Britland, Wholesale Online Coordinator from Nova of London says, “Retailing for over 40 years, Nova of London is proud to be one of the UK’s premier wholesalers of women’s fashion! Based in London, we design and supply a huge range of original, on-trend, and affordable designs. We’re extremely excited to exhibit at the Autumn Fair where we’ll be launching our new AW24 collection for more Northern-based customers to place their pre-orders.”

Visitors will also discover YUMI womenswear, as well as Hug Leggings with their high-waisted, tummy controlling, bottom lifting, thigh squeezing leggings in luxurious, functional material, and a range of high quality activewear in luxuriously soft fabrics; and Amazing Woman also debuts its collection of womenswear including linen and knitwear made in Italy.

The jewellery sector sees an exciting influx of new designers and brands. Regular exhibitor, D&X is launching a new collection from St Ives, Lilac & Limes with their beautiful memories necklaces which make the perfect gift and keepsakes. Also hailing from St. Ives, look out for the beach-inspired jewellery and accessories from The Sea Shed. Maudella launches its latest collection of affordable and ethically made jewellery and discover uniquely handcrafted timeless jewellery designs from Silver Art London. For trend-led quality, versatile fashion jewellery that make the perfect gifts, look out for new Spanish brand Miramira, or head to Miku Jewellery for a vibrant selection of unique and custom, handmade pieces.

Innovative travel accessory brand LuggAway showcases its award-winning invention designed to make it easier to travel with hand luggage on top of your suitcase. The Bali Collection brings its beautiful rattan bags handmade by talented artisans and craftspeople from Bali. Birmingham-based family run business Fat Giraffe debuts its collection of jewellery, handbags and fashion accessories; and Woodbridge Bags launches its stylish collection of bags and travel luggage.

To discover why Autumn Fair is the largest trade event in retail's peak season and explore the new brands, products, content and more that make this an unmissable show for retail buyers and independent businesses visit www.autumnfair.com.

The STIGA team have done it again! Thanks to their green-fingered designers, the garden tool manufacturer is celebrating a WIN with these rather nifty and jolly addictive, SC 100e Kit Cordless pruning shears! 

The cordless pruning shears won 'Garden Tool Of The Year' at the prestigious DIY Week Awards. Marketing Coordinator, Sam Dixon and National Account Manager, Stuart Chick were on hand at the awards event which took place last week in Covent Garden. You can see their happy, smiley faces above!

The judges said “The design and quality of this tool really stand out and mean it should perform well and last a long time, an all round great product!”

"We are so chuffed to bits to have won this amazing award. Our designers have really shown their amazing skill with the ergonomic design of the new STIGA SC 100e which makes this battery pruner both functional and comfortable to use allowing you to work efficiently and quickly," says Amanda Kincaid, Marketing Manager at STIGA UK. "We know that many gardeners and florists are really thrilled with this handy gardening tool and we have had some super feedback already from them"

The SC 100e Kit Cordless pruning shears are available direct through stiga.com/uk website.

The DIY Week Awards is a leading scheme for the recognition of excellence from across the DIY, home improvement and garden sectors, organised by DIY Week publisher Datateam Business Media.

The Horticultural Trades Association has announced the inaugural FutureGrow Expo, scheduled for 8 October at Stoneleigh Park. This pioneering event will feature diverse demonstrations and presentations, aiming to revolutionise the horticultural landscape through innovation, collaboration, and strategic investment by connecting technology innovators with horticultural businesses.

The FutureGrow Expo is not just a showcase of new technologies. Engaging presentations and demonstrations will provide attendees with a deep understanding of the latest innovations in the horticultural industry, including automation and robotics. With indoor and outdoor exhibits and afternoon demonstrations, the event promises to be a rich source of knowledge and inspiration, encouraging attendees to build relationships with innovators to shape future technology specific to the environmental horticultural sector.

Fran Barnes, HTA Chief Executive, emphasised the significance of the industry, stating: "With environmental horticulture crop production in the UK, including supply to forestry, valued at approximately £1.6 billion annually, the industry's importance cannot be overstated. Notably, the 'top 30' among our 160 grower members contribute nearly £600 million to this total, underscoring our unique position to convene the UK's most influential decision-makers regarding inward investment in horticultural businesses. Leveraging our role as a trade association, we have the ability to unite these businesses around shared research and development investment priorities. While our event will naturally attract our members, it will also welcome participation from all 300+ environmental horticulture growers in the UK and beyond, fostering a diverse and collaborative environment for innovation and growth."

The FutureGrow Expo also hopes to bring together industry leaders and government policymakers to help influence future government grants and fiscal incentives for technology investment. This strategic role positions the FutureGrow Expo as an invaluable opportunity for all stakeholders to learn about and contribute to the industry's future.

Fran added: "Strategically targeting growers, the event aims to raise awareness of how existing and pre-commercial mechanisation/automation techniques can significantly enhance sustainable productivity growth in the nursery sector. This event offers industry professionals an unparalleled opportunity to gain insights from industry leaders, explore innovative technologies, and cultivate connections that could drive transformative solutions for their businesses.”

For more information and to book your place, visit https://hta.org.uk/futuregrow

GTN May 2024 - Summer Showroom Directory - In this issue: AMES Tools – the success story so far, One to watch – GTN visits the new Rutland Nursery, Altico celebrates 3 years, Getting wise with wool - gardening products made from sheep’s wool, On your marks – GTN’s guide to this summer’s shows, SOLEX – outdoor living at its best, Summer Showroom Directory – GTN’s guide to supplier showrooms open for business this summer, STV on the road, Creativity with Floralsilk, Smart’s showroom visit, Planteria Vox-Pops from: Gates, Newquay, Cooks, Bosworths, Coblands, Carpenters, Highfields, Pughs, Barton Grange, Cowells, Perrywood, Munros and Fron Goch, Hoping for sunshine – HTA Column, What’s driving future gardening? – GIMA Column.

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Botanical Shakespeare author, scholar and actress, Gerit Quealy, created two very special cultural events in honour of this year’s Urban Tree Festival, which took place in London from 9-19th May.

The first event – Come Meet the Urban Medlar: Trees, treats, talk & entertainment! – was held on Thursday 16th May at Word on the Water, a very special book barge on Regents Canal behind Kings Cross, near Granary Square & Coal Drops Yard.

Guests and passers by were treated to renditions from Shakespeare and encouraged to get involved in ‘fruity’ theatrical scenes from the bard’s work which featured the ancient medlar tree, situated nearby. Delicious artisan ice cream by local maker, Ruby Violet and cookies filled with medlar jam were washed down with hand-crafted medlar vodka, whilst talented lute player Sam Brown provided first class accompaniment at the joyful event.

Helping to save olive trees

Next up was a Celebration of Olive Trees: Save the Olives Fundraiser, which was held in a spectacular event space at the top of St Pancras Clocktower.

Dame Helen Mirren, who also wrote the foreword to Botanical Shakespeare, recorded a wonderful reading of Shakespeare’s sonnet 107 while on location in Montana for 1923, but her fondness for the region of Apulia, an important olive-growing region of Southern Italy which has been devastated by the Xylella disease, led her to be involved with Save the Olives.

Stefano Petroni, from NGO, Save the Olives, explained in moving detail how the ancient olive trees of his homeland, Apulia (Puglia), are under a grave threat from Xylella, which has already killed over 2.4 million trees and has a very real risk of spreading further.

The audience was also addressed by Sarah Vachon of Citizens of Soil, who gave a fascinating talk about olive cultivation and what really constitutes the extra virgin olive oil of culinary bliss. It’s almost certainly not what you’ve had open in your kitchen cupboard for the past six months! And UTF’s Paul Wood, author of London is a Forest, on the olive trees that dot the city’s streets.

Gerit commented: It’s been such a pleasure to host these events within London’s Urban Tree Festival and I’d liked to thank everyone who joined us and showed their support for these wonderful ancient trees, the medlar and the olive. I’m passionate about conservation of the environment and preserving trees and feel it’s very important to keep raising awareness about the sad plight of the olive tree, a universal symbol of peace and prosperity.

I bring no overture of war, no taxation of homage; I hold the olive in my hand; my words are as full of peace as matter. Viola, Twelfth Night, Act I, sc. 5.

QVC UK is the new sponsor of the Beautiful Borders at BBC Gardeners’ World Live, opening at the NEC Birmingham next month (13-16 June). The leader in video-commerce will unveil a headline Border designed by Kitti Kovacs that showcases its popular garden destination, My Garden Escape.

Surrey-based garden designer Kitti will be bringing QVC UK’s gardening content to life with the My Garden Escape Border.The design will be a versatile haven for both shared experiences and quiet reflection, featuring vibrant blooms with stylish furniture and décor. Visitors will also be able to meet one of the shopping channel’s gardening experts, Emma Real-Davies.

My Garden Escape at QVC provides everything from indoor and outdoor plants to water features, garden equipment and outdoor furniture to lighting and décor. Authentic recommendations, personalised plant care tips and interactive live streams from the shopping channel’s resident garden experts will help turn any outdoor space into a Garden Escape.

Laura Southern, Commercial Director for My Garden Escape at QVC says: “The My Garden Escape Border reflects that gardens can be a sanctuary for quiet reflection, peace and tranquillity as well as being places to socialise with friends and family. QVC is a great place to find garden inspiration, ideas, and products, and we’re sure that the Border will inspire BBC Gardeners’ World Live visitors to create their own Garden Escapes at home.”  

The Beautiful Borders are a popular feature at all BBC Gardeners’ World events, providing small-space inspiration and achievable, budget-friendly ideas to take home. This year’s event will feature twenty Borders, each with a completely different style but all packed with creative design features and interesting planting schemes. For some designers, the Beautiful Borders are a first step into show garden design and build, with some going on to design larger Showcase Gardens at subsequent BBC Gardeners’ World events.

Rachel Poletti-Gadd, Portfolio Director at Immediate Live, organisers of BBC Gardeners’ World Live, said: “We’re delighted to have QVC joining us for BBC Gardeners’ World Live this year, sponsoring the wonderful Beautiful Borders. Visitors really enjoy the creativity that goes into these special gardens and chatting with the designers and teams behind them too. I think they’re really going to love Kitti’s eye-catching design. Being able to ‘shop the look’ through QR codes will add a really exciting element too.”

BBC Gardeners’ World Live takes place at the NEC Birmingham from 13-16 June. Highlights include Show Gardens by award-winning designers, including the headline Chef’s Table garden by Adam Frost, inspiring Showcase Gardens and Beautiful Borders, and the Floral Marquee with its spectacular displays, Let’s Talk Plants stage, Plant Expert advice desk and the Hot Off The Potting Bench gallery of new plants and varieties. New features this year include an Urban Gardening area for town and city garden inspiration, the Get Growing Stage and practical workshops. The Show is also the new home of the International Orchid Show. The BBC Gardeners’ World Live Theatre features entertaining gardening chat with Monty Don, Adam Frost, Frances Tophill, Carol Klein and Joe Swift, and summer garden tips with the BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine editors. There are quality plants and garden shopping to enjoy, a House Plant Hub, Plant Crèche, children’s activities, and the Health for Life School Wheelbarrow Competition.

Tickets for BBC Gardeners’ World Live are available at www.bbcgardenersworldlive.com (transaction fee applies) and include entry to Good Food Show Summer (goodfoodshowsummer.com). Highlights include demonstrations, theatres, stages and talks, book signings, tastings and workshops, street food, and delicious food and drink to taste and buy. Celebrity chefs include Nadiya Hussain, James Martin, Michel Roux and Becky Excell.

Entries are invited for the 2024 Grower of the Year Awards to recognise and celebrate best practices in sustainable production in UK horticulture.

The Grower of the Year Awards demonstrates the high calibre of UK nurseries that lead the way in quality, service, innovation and peat reduction, and offers an excellent way to recognise new and upcoming talent in the sector. Retailers or suppliers can show their appreciation of nurseries by nominating them, or growers can put themselves forward as being amongst the best.

Pippa Greenwood, HTA Horticulture Manager said: “Entering these awards is a fantastic way to promote and to celebrate the very best in our industry, whether you nominate a business or individual for an award or want to nominate your own business!”

As well as a trophy, the winners will also receive free tickets to Horticulture, The Conference – dinner, where they will receive their awards. The winners are also eligible for the AIPH International Grower of the Year Awards where they can go on to achieve global recognition.

Winner from last year, Melanie Asker of Greenwood Plants said: “Winning the HTA peat-free grower of the year 2023 was a great achievement for us and felt like validation of our two-year journey to becoming a fully peat-free grower. It also offered us a fantastic platform for entry into the AIPH’s International Grower of the Year awards, where we were fortunate enough to win the highly coveted Gold Rose award.  We are hugely grateful for the industry recognition that both awards have given us, and they have been an important part of the development of Greenwood.”

2024 categories include:

• Plant Producer (including Annuals, Herbaceous Perennials, Houseplants,
• Trees (including conifers),
• Shrubs and Climbers,
• Bulbs & Cut Flowers.
• Young and/or finished plants.
• Life Beyond Peat
• Inspirational Business
• Blooming Marvellous Employer 
• Young Grower under 35 
• Staff Member

Grower members must show their commitment to the environment through a public plan and be working towards a target such as CO2 reduction, peat-removal, or water resilience.  

For more information on entering the awards and all of the entry criteria, please visit the Grower of the Year Awards page at  https://hta.org.uk/goty

Entries must be received by Tuesday 23 July 2024, and award winners will be announced on Wednesday 25 September 2024 at Horticulture, The Conference.

The International Association of Horticultural Producers (AIPH) and the Global Youth Biodiversity Network (GYBN) have announced the three shortlisted entries selected by the Youth Jury from the list of 21 Finalists in the AIPH World Green City Awards 2024. Each of these cities stands a chance of being named the winner of the AIPH Youth Award for their inspiring urban greening initiatives.

Congratulations to all of the 2024 RHS Chelsea Flower Show award winners.

Click the link below for a list of all the award winners

https://www.rhs.org.uk/shows-events/rhs-chelsea-flower-show/awards

Taylors Bulbs has been awarded its 31st consecutive Gold Medal at RHS Chelsea Flower Show.

The show team selected over 100 varieties to grow for the show, planting 22,500 bulbs last autumn. They cropped 5,565 perfect flowers to use for the display.

Charlotte Daubney, who has managedthe preparation for the show, said: "As usual, this year provided it's own unique challenges with everything flowering early outdoors. When we brought the bulbs out of the cold store ready to flower for the show it was dull and cold, and they took a while to get going but it all worked out okay in the end!"

Find Taylors Bulbs in the Grand Pavilion on stand GDP050.

A winter and spring flowering ornamental cherry with unusual pure white star-shaped flowers has won the Royal Horticultural Society’s Chelsea Plant of the Year 2024 competition.

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Exhibited at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2024 by Green Jjam Nurseries and bred by Ken Tobutt, the Prunus ‘Starlight’ was selected as the winner by over 180 experts from RHS Plant Committees and Trials Assessment Forums. 

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In second place came Cosmos atrosanguineus CHERRY CHOCOLATE (‘Vg001’) with its large vibrant cherry-coloured flowers, delicious chocolate scent and contrasting yellow pollen. The plant, bred by Valin Genetics and supplied by Whetman Plants International, will be exhibited by Stonebarn & Gardeners’ Question Time.

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Agave ‘Praying Hands’, exhibited by Stonebarn & Gardeners’ Question Time, bred by Hans Hansen and supplied byThompson & Morgan, took third place in the competition. The plant’s colourful foliage and striking shape make for a perfect pot specimen or mixed in with other succulents. Hardy to -5C and sun and drought tolerant, it is ideal for a changing climate.

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This year, a mushroom made the shortlist for the first time. Pleurotus euosmus, a tarragon oyster mushroom, exhibited by Caley Brothers and bred by Adrian Ogden of Gourmet Woodland Mushrooms is quick and easy to cultivate for culinary use through growing kits and accessible to anyone regardless of space, experience and budget.

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It was also the first time that voters took part in an online competition. The format was chosen so it could be widened to enable members of RHS Plant Committees and Trials Forums who are not able to attend the show to contribute their expertise.

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Now in its 14th year, the RHS Plant of the Year competition takes place each year to celebrate new developments and innovations among the world of growers’.

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Emma Allen, RHS Head of Horticultural Relations, said: “I’m delighted to see the Prunus ‘Starlight’ has won this year. It has fabulous star-shaped flowers, really unusual, which are reminiscent of the star magnolia. Former winners have gone on to fly off the shelves, so we hope that this win brings similar future success.

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“We are also delighted for everyone who has made the shortlist, as the competition showcases innovations and new plant features from the best of the plant breeding world for the domestic gardener.”

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The annual RHS Plant of the Year winners and shortlisted entrants will be on display on the RHS Experience stand in the Great Pavilion at RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2024 sponsored by The Newt in Somerset, which runs from Tuesday 21 May to Saturday 25 May.

A self-watering, flat packed pot cover has been chosen as the 2024 RHS Sustainable Garden Product of the Year. Based on the Japanese art of origami, the POTR range in three sizes, is a self-assembly pot cover with internal wick to make plant watering efficient.

Andrew Flynn, Designer and a Founder of POTR explains that because the packaging in minimal, its critical for retailers to display an assembled POTR so customers can see how it works. In three sizes, retailing at £16 (11cm), £20 (15cm) and £24, they come in a range of colours. “The biggest we currently sell is 18cm diameter, but we would love to go bigger as it makes even more sense from a sustainability point of view and in terms of transport.” It would also help with garden centre displays. “It’s one of the things on our hit list,” he says.

Pots are manufactured in Edinburgh and currently retailers are selling at a 55%-60% margin.

Asked why the product stood out and was named winner, Judge and Dragon’s Den ‘dragon’, Deborah Meaden says: “It is truly, madly and deeply sustainable from the get-go. It uses it's a brilliant material – polyproline – which uses recycled product and is recyclable. But none of that matters if it isn't a cool looking product. You can have the most sustainable thing in the world, but if nobody wants to buy it, it doesn't have any impact whatsoever. I'm always looking for the reasons a product won’t work. But I'll be honest - I've struggled finding anything.” 

In a change to previous years, a Highly Commended was also given and presented to Kim Stead from Twool for its 100% British wool, Sustainable Garden Net. Retailing at £14.99, it’s perfect for supporting sweet peas and other annual climbers.

Peter Beales Roses has been awarded its 29th Gold medal at the prestigious RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2024. Located in the Grand Pavilion (GPF089), the Peter Beales stand has captivated visitors with its stunning display of roses, celebrating the timeless beauty and diversity of these beloved flowers.

This year's central display honours the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI), with whom Peter Beales Roses has partnered to celebrate the charity's 200th anniversary. The highlight of the now award-winning display is the grand unveiling of the "With Courage" rose, a special variety bred to celebrate the work of the RNLI’s brave volunteers and to raise vital funds for the life-saving charity. This beautiful new rose was officially unveiled yesterday (Monday, 20th May) during Press Day with a special photocall featuring Blue Peter presenters Anthea Turner, Janet Ellis, and Lindsey Russell, symbolic of the long-standing relationship between Blue Peter and the RNLI.

Despite the RHS Chelsea Flower Show having been open for only a day and a half so far, the Peter Beales stand has already attracted a wealth of celebrity visitors, including Joanna Lumley, Kate Humble, Joanna Scanlon, David Mitchell, Johnny Ball, Amanda Holden, Greg Davies, Joel Dommett, Kirstie Allsopp, Caroline Quentin, and many more.

Covering over 100 square meters, the Peter Beales display showcases a breathtaking array of roses, demonstrating the company's dedication to the nation’s favourite bloom.

The instantly recognisable rose-covered arches welcome guests to the fragrant and sensory display, which encourages them to linger and enjoy the beauty of the flowers. As well as ‘With Courage,’ multiple coloured and scented varieties come together in a breathtaking display, each reaching their height, and exhibited in different ways to showcase the vibrant blooms.

Arches are adorned with the deep crimson ‘Chevy Chase,’ the enchanting pure white ‘Rambling Rector,’ and the delightful ‘Paul's Himalayan Musk,’ as well as the majestic ‘Waterloo.’ Stepping further into the immersive display, visitors encounter special varieties like ‘Rachel's Joy,’ ‘Highgrove,’ ‘Loyal Companion,’ ‘MacMillan Nurse,’ and ‘Pippin,’ each a living tribute to Peter Beales' legacy.

Elsewhere, the display features old historical roses, such as ‘Comte de Chambord,’ ‘White Pet,’ and the striking ‘Rosa Mundi.’ Obelisks stand tall, proudly presenting the ‘Siluetta’ range of patio climbers alongside the captivating ‘Purple Skyliner.’

Flood Re, in collaboration with Dr. Ed Barsley and Naomi Slade, unveiled the pioneering Flood Resilient Garden. 

Today, 1 in 4 homes in the UK are at risk of flooding – not just by the coast and rivers, but in urban areas too. Flooding doesn't just damage homes and gardens; it devastates lives, causing lasting financial and emotional strain. In total, 5.4 million (1 in 8) UK adults with gardens have experienced the devastating impact of flooding on their green spaces.

The Flood Resilient Garden is designed to inspire and educate homeowners about the critical role their garden can play in flood defence. Incorporating sustainable drainage systems (SuDS), native flood-tolerant plant species, and innovative water management techniques, the garden is a model for future landscaping under the threat of increasing extreme weather events due to climate change.

In a groundbreaking display at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show, the Flood Resilient Garden will intentionally flood to demonstrate its unique capabilities. This never-seen-before feature will illustrate how the garden adapts to changing water levels. Visitors will witness firsthand how the central swale becomes a lively stream, channelling rainwater into a feature pond where it can gradually soak away, while large water tanks double as ornamental ponds which store water for later use. 

Adding to the excitement, leading weather & climate change expert Laura Tobin will be on hand to discuss the garden's role in mitigating flood risks.

Laura Tobin Said:  "The Flood Resilient Garden shows that adapting to climate change can still be beautiful and homeowners don’t have to give up having a lovely garden to make it work hard against extreme weather. It’s about blending smart, sustainable choices with thoughtful design to protect our homes and communities”.

A Nation at Risk
The unveiling also shines a light on the latest insights from Flood Re, revealing a concerning lack of flood awareness amongst UK citizens. 

Flood Re’s research shows that only 5% of people living in areas at high-risk of flooding could correctly identify their flood risk. Concerningly, 68% of people in high-risk flood areas incorrectly think their flood risk is low. 

The research shows that despite Brits spending an average of £402 on their gardens over the past year, they are not taking the crucial steps they need to protect their homes and gardens from flooding. 

Indeed, 90% of homeowners, rising to 93% in high and mid flood risk areas, haven’t taken any steps to make their homes and gardens more flood resilient. Despite the extreme weather conditions, this doesn’t look to be changing, with only 9% of homeowners planning to add flood resilience measures to their homes and gardens in the next year

Build Back Better
In the event of a flood, Flood Re’s Build Back Better scheme allows eligible customers with specific home insurers to receive up to £10,000 as part of a claim.

The amount is meant for home and garden improvements that go beyond basic repairs, focusing on enhancing the property’s resilience against future floods.

The Flood Resilient Garden is not just a temporary exhibit. After the show, it will find a permanent home at Howbery Business Park, allowing the public to explore its features and learn about flood resilience year-round.

Flood Re is on hand to help you invest wisely in your garden to make it beautiful and resilient. Check out all the best tips and tricks to make your garden both beautiful and resilient here.

Flood Re CEO Andy Bord, said: "Gardens bring joy to so many of us but they also provide an important first line of defence to flooding. With this garden we’re hoping to inspire more people to think about their flood risk and get smart with their spending by considering the plants and garden features that will both endure a flood and could also help reduce the physical destruction and psychological distress when a flood strikes. If flood resilient features and water storage capacity were to become a feature of most gardens in a neighbourhood, the positive combined effect would be enormous!”

Naomi Slade, Garden Designer, said: “People spend a huge amount of time and money on their gardens and floods can wreak havoc and cause a huge amount of disruption, heartache and expense. The principles showcased within our Flood Resilient Garden are impactful, practical and transferable, but crucially we’ve shown that making a garden more climate and flood-resilient does not have to be a compromise on either its form or function.”  

Ed Barsley, The Environmental Design Studio, said: “With the increase in extreme weather events, heavy rainfall and flooding as well as drought, and even wildfires, many people are anxious. As individuals they can feel powerless to make a difference. But gardens are hugely powerful tools and the Flood Re: The Flood Resilient Garden sends a positive message of agency and hope, and it is packed with practical, achievable ideas and solutions to enable people, as we adapt to the climate crisis.”

The Octavia Hill Garden by Blue Diamond with the National Trust has been awarded a Silver-Gilt Medal at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2024.  

The Main Avenue Show Garden, designed by Ann-Marie Powell Gardens, was created to celebrate the legacy of social pioneer and National Trust co-founder Octavia Hill.  

Octavia campaigned for much of her life to save green space so that everyone, particularly those living in cities, could benefit from ‘the healthy gift of air and the joy of plants and flowers’. She once said: “Our lives are overcrowded, over-excited, over-strained. We all want quiet. We all want beauty. We all need space. Unless we have it we cannot reach that sense of quiet in which whispers of better things come to us gently.” 

Two years in the making, the garden champions biodiversity, accessibility, environmentally-sustainable materials and techniques, and uses a series of ‘outdoor sitting rooms’ – an idea advocated by Octavia – to enable people and nature to connect.  

The award comes after the garden received the inaugural RHS Children’s Choice Award. On Monday, a seedling from the Sycamore Gap tree, propagated by the Trust’s Plant Conservation Centre, was placed on the garden by Dame Judi Dench and 7-year-old Charlotte Crowe, a pupil from the closest Primary School to Sycamore Gap. 

Garden designer Ann-Marie Powell said: “To say that I’m thrilled by this award would be a huge understatement! It’s been a mountain for the team to climb but the result, and the reaction of show visitors, has made every moment worthwhile.  

“I hadn’t heard of Octavia before I started work on the garden, but I’m now in awe of what she achieved. We owe her such a debt. Seeing the smoggy streets, the density of city life and the closure of once-public spaces, she knew instinctively that people needed space, sky and beauty. 

“I hope we can get more people talking and thinking about Octavia off the back of the garden. But I also hope we’ve shown what can be done – let's aspire to fantastic urban spaces that bring colour and joy to our lives, and boost the biodiversity around us. It is possible.” 

Andy Jasper, Director of Gardens & Parklands, said: “We are over the moon to be recognised with this award. We wanted to show what Octavia Hill would be doing if she were alive today. We feel confident she would still be pushing for people to have ‘outdoor sitting rooms’ – gardens and green spaces where they can rest, play and enjoy the sight of things growing.  

“Those things mattered in Octavia’s lifetime and they continue to matter in today’s world, more so than ever. Her ideas don’t belong in the past, they are as relevant as they ever were. You only have to look at places like Castlefield Viaduct – our ‘garden in the sky’ in Manchester – and at the after-school club at Stoneford Community Garden in Dagenham, to see that Octavia’s ambitions still drive our work today.  

“We’re hugely grateful to Ann-Marie Powell, the craftspeople, contractors and apprentices we’ve worked with, and Blue Diamond Garden Centres. Without them, this wonderful garden wouldn’t have been possible. And I’d like to thank National Trust supporters too, who enable us to keep doing the work that Octavia started over 130 years ago.” 

Alan Roper, Blue Diamond Managing Director, said: “Blue Diamond's collaboration with the National Trust led to us originating the idea for this garden at RHS Chelsea. Ann-Marie Powell took our team on a design journey and her interpretation of Octavia's Hill's vision, for today's generation, is truly admirable.  

“Our equal investment in this garden with the National Trust exemplifies our relationship by celebrating and reminding people of one of their founding members and allows my team the rewarding experience of being part of such a journey. It is a tremendous achievement for all concerned. I am extremely proud that we were able to realise this landmark garden celebrating the National Trust and their achievements.  

“However, for Blue Diamond this journey is only just beginning. After RHS Chelsea, I want to ensure the legacy of the garden continues so it can be enjoyed and Octavia's ideals celebrated, for many years to come. As such, it will be rebuilt in its entirety, at Bridgemere Show Gardens in Nantwich, Cheshire, where it will take pride of place alongside 15 other RHS Gold and Silver Gilt winning gardens dating back to 1989.” 

Jim Teague, Head of Blue Diamond Production, said: "Everyone at Blue Diamond is incredibly proud of the collaboration with The National Trust, and winning a Silver-Gilt medal at Chelsea Flower Show is simply the icing on the cake! 

“The whole team have been working very hard to make sure Chelsea is a success, and that the message and legacy that Octavia Hill left us through the National Trust is able to be conveyed to all our customers within our garden centres. 

“Customers will be able to continue to visit our stores and buy a little piece of the show garden from our Chelsea Collection of plants." 

Jill Kerr, Group Relationship Manager for Blue Diamond, said: "We are absolutely delighted with the Silver-Gilt Medal and would like to thank all at the already multi-award winning garden design practice, Ann-Marie Powell Gardens, led by designer Ann-Marie Powell, the team at The Landscaping Consultants, all the talented specialists and all those at the National Trust and Blue Diamond Garden Centres involved in this tremendous project. It really was a huge team effort!  

“We hope the garden will inspire and encourage people to create gardens or areas for plants to flourish, to spend time outdoors in nature and in their gardens, to enjoy the many proven benefits. We should all take the opportunity to increase plant diversity and provide valuable food sources for pollinators and wildlife in whatever outdoor space we may have. 

“Octavia Hill believed that ‘the healthy gift of air and the joy of plants and flowers’ were vital in everyone’s life' and I think this is a belief we should all live by.” 

New for 2024, the eponymous Emma Bridgewater English Shrub rose celebrates the union of two heritage British brands, with a flower that can grow and thrive in gardens but also last forever indoors on the corresponding hand-painted Emma Bridgewater mug.

It follows an earlier collaboration in January of this year where the two co-designed a charitable mug depicting the golden yellow David Austin Bring Me Sunshine rose to raise money for the National Garden Scheme, where a £5 donation for every mug sold continues to be donated to charity.

In addition to the new Emma Bridgewater rose, David Austin® is also launching a new gift box in which recipients will enjoy a voucher for the rose, an Emma Bridgewater milk bottle vase for displaying a cut stem or two and a matching tea towel, which can also be purchased via the David Austin website.

David J. C. Austin says “Emma Bridgewater’s works are amongst the most collectable of our time, so it feels fitting to have created an English rose of such endless appeal in her honour. In the tradition of our English roses, we have meticulously bred, tested, and trialled the Emma Bridgewater variety over 12 years to ensure it is both beautiful and born to endure. Admiring the rose in full bloom at this year’s Chelsea Flower Show will be a very special moment, just as it was for me to visit the Emma Bridgewater factory in Stoke-on-Trent and see our collaborative mug being crafted.”

Emma Bridgewater says “I am delighted by our collaboration with David Austin Roses, a British brand with a real crossover of vision and ideas. Visiting the David Austin nursery and witnessing the rose creation process was thrilling and incredibly inspiring. I have been surrounded and loved David Austin Roses for as long as I remember as both my mum and granny were keen gardeners and loved them. Much like a well-loved piece of pottery, roses can be like old friends, with a personal connection for people. The Emma Bridgewater rose is wonderful, and not least because it is full of surprises, as it displays several distinctly different colours as the buds appear, open and then develop - giving three different hues in one rose. It has also been rewarding to take this beautiful rose and translate it into pottery with an illustrative mug as well as a range of vases made especially for displaying roses in all of their glory.”

First time garden designer Giulio Giorgi and Garden Contractor Landesigns received the inaugural RHS Environmental Innovation Award in recognition of the efforts they have gone to in order to reduce the environmental footprint of the World Child Cancer Nurturing Garden at this year’s show. 

The new award, which was open to all those in the Show and Sanctuary Garden categories at this year’s show, was introduced to recognise and celebrate the innovative ways designers and contractors have reduced the environmental impact of the gardens they have created.

The judging panel, which consisted of Malcolm Anderson, RHS Head of Sustainability, Liz Nicholson Managing Director at Nicholsons and Paul Cowell Chartered Landscape Architect, were unanimous in their decision.

About the winners Malcolm Anderson, RHS Head of Sustainability said; “It was a really difficult decision to make but we felt the World Child Cancer Nurturing Garden stood out as a beautifully simple example of merging old techniques with new, where Giulio has used 3D printing to create traditional keyhole gardens. The garden has been created using products made entirely from soil and timber and in its construction no power tools have been used, only hand tools, so it is a fine example of how we can design and build gardens more sustainably in the future.”

“This year has marked something of a seismic shift in the way the gardens have been designed and built, yes, we can always do better and there is always something new to learn. But we should all take a moment to celebrate the sustainability stories embedded in this year’s gardens.”

Eleven gardens applied to be considered for this award, which were judged according to seven criteria including construction, overall innovation, and biodiversity. This involved judges considering end of life plans for the gardens, whether materials can be reused, and how it will benefit the community and environment in its final location.

Innovations commended by the judges in the other gardens considered for the award included the use of hemp in the construction of the Stroke Association’s Garden for Recovery designed by Miria Harris and built by Mark Gregory of Landform Consultants, which also included a prototype hemp composite paving never been tried at the show before.   The judges were also particularly impressed with how designers Tom Massey and Je Ahn along with Landscape Associates created the WaterAid Garden with its relocated site at the forefront.  The garden has the potential to make a difference globally as plans for the rainwater harvesters in the garden will be freely available from WaterAid so that these can be replicated anywhere in the world. 

RHS Director General Clare Matterson said: “The efforts all designers and contractors at this year’s RHS Chelsea Flower Show have gone to in order to reduce their gardens impact on the environment should be commended and demonstrates fantastic progress and a huge shift forward as we continue to work collaboratively on our journey to make the show and indeed the whole industry adopt more sustainable practices in garden design. Thank you to everyone involved and we look forward to seeing many more creative sustainable innovations in the future.”

Members of the Horticultural Trades Association and Association of Professional Landscapers are celebrating success as they showcase their exceptional talent with innovative garden design, landscaping and displays this week at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2024. This year is hailed by the RHS as its most sustainable show yet, with all show gardens having gone through an environmental audit to reduce their environmental impact.

Over 20 of the prestigious medals were awarded to HTA and APL members, including the 2024 Plant of the Year Prunus ‘Starlight’, an ornamental cherry blossom tree with unique white star star-shaped flowers, which was supplied by member Frank P Matthews. 

Nine London primary schools were invited to the show to award the first ever RHS Children’s Choice Award, which was presented to the Octavia Hill Garden, a partnership of HTA member Blue Diamond with the National Trust, designed by Ann-Marie Powell with the Blue Diamond Team. The Main Avenue Show Garden was created to celebrate the legacy of social pioneer and National Trust co-founder Octavia Hill.

Fran Barnes, Chief Executive of the HTA commented: "All APL and HTA members who built gardens at the show were awarded medals this year which is a fantastic testament to their high calibre work. We’re extremely proud to see so many HTA and APL members highlight their exceptional talents with show-stopping gardens, blooming displays and dedication to environmental sustainability at RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2024. They really do reinforce the positive effect plants and gardening have on our wellbeing. This is a great week for our HTA and APL members with so many of them getting the recognition they deserve.”

Show gardens 

Crocus - Muscular Dystrophy UK – Forest Bathing Garden GOLD and BEST IN CATEGORY

Landscape Associates- The Water Aid Garden GOLD

Landform Consultants - The National Autistic Society Garden SILVER GILT

The Octavia Hill Garden by Blue Diamond with the National Trust SILVER GILT

Landform Consultants – Stroke Association’s Garden for Recovery BRONZE

Sanctuary gardens 

Conquest creative spaces – Burma Skin Care Initiative Spirit of Partnership Garden GOLD and BEST IN CATEGORY

Gadd Brothers – The Boodles Garden SILVER GILT

Container gardens 

 Wright Landscapes – The Ecotherapy Garden GOLD and BEST IN CATEGORY

 Andrew Ball MGR Changing Tide Garden GOLD

 Big Fish Landscapes – The Anywhere Courtyard SILVER GILT

 MAPL Sam Proctor Garden Design – The Water Saving Garden BRONZE

 All about plants 

 Atlantes Landscapes – The Bowel Research UK Microbiome Garden GOLD

 Big Fish Landscapes – The Pulp Friction: Growing Skills Garden SILVER GILT

HTA members exhibiting in the Great Pavillion were also awarded top Gold medals including Burncoose Nurseries, David Austin Roses, Peter Beales Roses, Primrose Hall Peonies, Raymond Evison Clematis, and Taylors Bulbs, and the Blue Diamond group of garden centres were awarded silver.

A 4-Star Trade Stand award was presented to the HTA and National Garden Gift Vouchers (NGGV) stand. The stand shows the benefits of giving the gift of gardening by emphasising the profound impact of gardening, highlighting the benefits for physical health, mental wellbeing, community and nature. With every NGGV purchase, not only do you gain access to a world of greenery, but you also contribute to the Greenfingers charity, creating magical gardens for life-limited children and their families to enjoy. 

SOLEX Exhibition, the premier event that gathers the best and brightest of the outdoor leisure industry, has announced an Awards Ceremony & Afterparty to kick off the excitement of the summer event on the Tuesday 9 July. Marking its 16th year, SOLEX Exhibition has curated a night of celebration, networking, and a thrilling football-themed evening to coincide with the highly anticipated UEFA Euro 2024 semi-finals.

With a captivating football-themed setting, the stage will be set with tv screens and hot food, as industry players gather, attendees can look forward to not only the prestigious SOLEX Awards but also to the electric atmosphere as the evening blends business recognition with the shared love for the beautiful game.

Adding to the excitement, former Ex - England footballer Dion Dublin will be joining us for the event to share insights and predictions ahead of the semi-final clash, (which we hope will feature England) as well as taking part in a Q&A session. The evening begins with a Welcome Drink and Hot Buffet, leading into the hotly awaited match on the big screen. The SOLEX Awards will be presented by Dion at half time. The afterparty, will be a chance to mingle outside the usual professional environment and promises to be as thrilling as the game itself.

The evening won't just be about football. We will have delicious food and drink, exciting entertainment, and a chance to unwind and socialize with exhibitors and visitors. So even if you're not a fan of the beautiful game, we've got you covered.

Don't miss out! Add your name to the guest list today BOOK NOW

Ready your grills, sharpen your knives, and stoke the fires! SOLEX Exhibition 2024 is about to welcome back the crowd-pleasing, taste-bud-teasing Fire Food and Outdoor Living Evening incorporating our BBQ Competition, which is set to light up the evening with charm and flavour.

Scheduled for Wednesday 10 July, the evening now in its second year, is the event that celebrates not only the mastery of the grill but the communal joy of al fresco dining.

Attendees eagerly anticipate the BBQ showdown, where teams of both exhibitors and visitors will vie for the prestigious BBQ Trophy. The stakes are high.  Each team aims to impress the judges, including industry experts with a signature dish.

Competition is set to heat up under the open skies outside Hall 5, be it under a radiant sun or cheering each other on beneath the shelter of gazebos, all competitors and spectators are poised to make beautiful bites of every challenge.

The essence of the evening is more than just the BBQ prize it embodies the thrill of the grill and the unifying spirit of good food shared.

Don't miss out! Add your name to the guest list today BOOK NOW