In This Issue
Cherry Lane acquires Salhouse Garden Centre near Norwich
Kaemingk UK showroom opens - Exclusive photo tour
The SOLEX Awards & Afterparty is now SOLD OUT!
Carbon Gold announces partnership with Westland Horticulture
How English gardeners have supported regenerative agriculture
Zest's outdoor entertaining collection to feature at SOLEX
Summer starts at SOLEX 2024 - GTN's SOLEX 2024 Preview
Rosa ‘Believe in Yourself’ launched by Blue Diamond
Peat-free takes centre stage at RHS Hampton Court festival
Plant and flower industry call for urgent action on import cost hikes
Chicken Euros: SOLEX's Fire Food & Outdoor Living Evening returns for its second sizzling year
Forest Garden aquires and relaunches Posh Shed Company
Coolings re-opens restored Pump Garden at Wych Cross
The HTA presents on cross-border trade and peat-policy at European meeting
Final chance to help shape the future of UK horticulture
Re-booking opens for HTA National Plant Show 2025
Meteorologist Peter Gibbs to speak at Horticulture, the Conference dinner
LOFA supporting Dementia UK & Mind
Blue Diamond Garden Centres and its brand Fryer’s Roses set to launch a new and exclusive rose
GARDENA launches new Summer TV campaign
Retailers can earn their stripes for a sporty summer with Johnsons Lawn Seed
G Plants embraces a peat-free future
Hillier furthers commitment to sustainable growing
Hannah Cook: bring on the plants, A Bridgerton Chelsea, 26 Page SOLEX Preview, plus more in GTN June/July issue. Read on-line here
Get your copy of GTN Xtra
GIMA Buyer Connect: The Klondyke Group – 8th August, Virtual Event
PLANTARIUM|GROEN-Direkt provides an overview and insight into the market for garden plants
Wyevale Nurseries returns to retail tree market after 15-year absence
The best of last week's
Westland Warriors storm to Greenfingers Dragon Boat success
Artevasi joins the AMES Companies family of brands
Wyevale Nurseries scoops six New Plant Awards at HTA National Plant Show
New Commercial Director at Bents Garden & Home
Look out for new AMES Companies merchandising vans
Spiraea WALBERTON’S® PLUM CARPET wins the Visitor Vote at the HTA National Plant Show
Open for Business - GTN's Summer Showroom directory
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Cherry Lane acquires Salhouse Garden Centre near Norwich

Value garden centre group, Cherry Lane, has acquired Salhouse Garden Centre in Salhouse, Norwich. The Garden Centre is now known as Salhouse Garden Centre by Cherry Lane...


 

Value garden centre group, Cherry Lane, has acquired Salhouse Garden Centre in Salhouse, Norwich. The Garden Centre is now known as Salhouse Garden Centre by Cherry Lane.

 

Nick Rubins, chief executive of the QD Group which owns Cherry Lane, said: “I am delighted to announce the acquisition of a new garden centre in our heartland Norwich.

 

"The garden centre will continue to trade as Salhouse Garden Centre by Cherry Lane and is our 21st garden centre in the group (18th Cherry Lane).

 

"We have some improvements and developments planned, to both the garden centre and the café, over the upcoming months and the centre will remain open whilst we do this work.

 

"As a family run business, we look forward to continuing to work with our local community and introduce our great value, excellent quality and ever-changing spectacular new deals.

 

"We continue to be very excited about the opportunities to grow the business over the next few years.”

 

Salhouse Garden Centre by Cherry Lane is the 18th garden centre owned by the QD Group.

 

Cherry Lane aims to enhance customer enjoyment and experience with great value and quality products, from garden furniture, a comprehensive pet department and wild bird care, not to mention seasonal special offers and the wonderful array of plants; many grown within the Group’s four nursery operations located across the country.

 

Salhouse Garden Centre by Cherry Lane is located on Honeycombe Rd, Salhouse, Norwich, and is open daily.

 

For more information on Cherry Lane, visit www.cherry-lane.co.uk

 

The Salhouse Garden Centre transaction was negotiated in a confidential manner by Alexander Mackie Associates Ltd. If you own a garden centre and you are looking to sell in the same manner, please call Darren Earnshaw at Alexander Mackie Associates on 01732 522222 or email: darren@alexandermackie.co.uk

Kaemingk UK showroom opens - Exclusive photo tour

Kaemingk opened their UK Spring Summer Showroom in Hall 3 at Stoneleigh on Monday and GTN had the opportunity to visit the 1,100 sq m showroom yesterday...


See GTN Xtra's exclusive photo tour of the UK Spring Summer '25 Showroom

Kaemingk opened their UK Spring Summer Showroom in Hall 3 at Stoneleigh on Monday and GTN had the opportunity to visit the 1,100 sq m showroom yesterday.

 

With over 150 appointments already booked, if you wish to visit the showroom over the 3 weeks that it is open visit the Kaemingk website: www.kaemingk.com

 

See our exclusive photo tour of the showroom that was built last week and is open until Friday 19th July.

 

The SOLEX Awards & Afterparty is now SOLD OUT!

The guest list for Tuesday night's event at SOLEX (9 July) is officially closed. If you did not register online by June 21 and have not received any communication from the LOFA office regarding your dietary requirements, unfortunately, you will not be granted entry...


 

The guest list for Tuesday night's event at SOLEX (9 July) is officially closed. If you did not register online by June 21 and have not received any communication from the LOFA office regarding your dietary requirements, unfortunately, you will not be granted entry.

 

The SOLEX Event Team said: "All available spots have been taken, and we cannot accommodate any more attendees. We do apologise but we are limited to numbers and if your name is not on the guest list you unfortunately will not be allowed entry into the event. Thanks for your understanding”  

Carbon Gold announces partnership with Westland Horticulture
GTN Xtra Promotion

Carbon Gold, the world’s longest standing biochar brand, has announced a new partnership with Westland Horticulture...


 

Carbon Gold, the world’s longest standing biochar brand, has announced a new partnership with Westland Horticulture.

 

Carbon Gold has been a pioneer within the biochar industry since 2007. Since then, the brand has achieved B-Corp certification, and been appointed The King’s Royal Warrant. Its products are Soil Association approved and backed by nearly two decades of research and development. 

 

This partnership will bring a range of enriched biochar products to conventional garden retailers for the first time, allowing home gardeners to naturally improve the health of their soil, sequester carbon and mitigate climate in a simple, accessible and sustainable way.

 

The production of biochar is a scientifically verified Negative Emissions Technology CO2 removal process - a Nature Based Solution. By converting unutilised woody biomass into valuable biochar with net negative pyrolysis technology, the process removes CO2 from atmospheric circulation by using biochar as a carbon sink when added to soil or substrates.

 

For over a decade, Carbon Gold products have been used professionally by commercial fruit and vegetable growers, professional tree growers, sports turf such as Premier League football clubs, racing and golf courses and in urban landscaping. Home growers and gardeners will now have greater access to enriched biochar products which rejuvenate tired soils and compost, naturally hold water in summer months and allow for quicker rooting when planting out.

 

 

Westland is a world-leader in peat-free technology, and the partnership with Carbon Gold further strengthens the Company’s offerings to both consumers and professional growers, and Westland’s commitment to sustainable horticulture.

 

Keith Nicholson, Marketing Director at Westland Horticulture, commented: “Enriched biochar has an important role to play in the future of sustainable gardening. Carbon Gold has developed a range of environmentally conscious products that we will bring to many gardeners going forward. This collaboration again places Westland at the forefront of consumer horticulture and displays our commitment to delivering real, sustainable gardening.”

 

Executive Chairman, Craig Sams, added: “We’re excited for this partnership with Westland – as a leader in the horticulture industry and a business that shares our goals, we’re confident that working together will encourage gardeners to choose a more environmentally-friendly approach, with biochar at its heart. Biochar has the potential to make a significant contribution to this CO2 removal, using the soil for carbon capture and storage. That is our mission.”

How English gardeners have supported regenerative agriculture
GTN Xtra Promotion

PlantWorks continues its mission in the hobby gardening sector. Empathy products are ecologically designed, pioneering the use of beneficial microbes in gardening, agriculture, and horticulture, strengthening soil biology, and reducing chemical reliance...


 

Modern farming is undergoing one of the most significant changes in history with the shift to regenerative farming. This method, which incorporates intelligent crop rotations, companion planting, and mindful cultivation practices, significantly reduces the use of chemical inputs. Central to this change is the recognition that soil is an asset, not a commodity and that soil biology plays a vital role in transferring nutrients to crops. Regenerative farming rebalances the excessive use of chemicals in agriculture, increasing nutrient use efficiency in soils and ensuring more applied nutrients ultimately reach the crops.

 

This transformation in farming practices is driven by a deeper understanding of our soil's condition, its capacity to sustain current outputs under existing fertigation regimes, the desire to increase soil carbon and the growing public sensitivity to chemical overuse in the food chain. Support comes from both the government, which offers subsidies to help soils recover from misuse, and from end users like Waitrose, who have pledged that its meat, milk, eggs, fruit, and vegetables should be sourced from regenerative farming by 2035.

 

Two key groups of beneficial soil microbes improve soil nutrient use efficiency: mycorrhizal fungi and plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria. These microbes convert nutrients into plant-available forms and perform other essential functions. Good farming practices can boost the microbial levels in the soil, and they can also be introduced into the farming process. Once applied, these microbes grow and replicate, seeking out specific nutrients excreted by plant roots and building communities.

 

PlantWorks is the UK's leading producer of beneficial soil microbes, manufactured at its facilities at the Kent Science Park. Originally a spin-out company, PlantWorks is now one of Europe’s largest producers of mycorrhizal fungi. It has developed a range of beneficial bacteria in collaboration with experts, which have been widely trialled in the UK to support regenerative farming. Unusually, PlantWorks has funded much of its farming research through reinvestment from the sales of its mycorrhizal fungi and bio-fertilisers to the gardening market in the UK and beyond under its Empathy retail brand. These products, recognised by gardeners as the most ecologically sensitive in the market, are designed to offer benefits to treated plants throughout their lifetime, improving nutrient and water flow, health, flowering, and fruiting.

 

Sold across the UK in over 2000 outlets, a significant proportion of income from this work has funded PlantWorks' science team in their research and development of products supporting regenerative farming. This initiative, which began in 2014, has now underwritten the development of products for most cereal and vegetable crops grown in the UK and has seen trials conducted across the main farming areas of the country. In 2023, PlantWorks signed a collaboration with Clayton, a well-established brand in the farming sector, to further invest in and promote its products under the NUE brand.

 

PlantWorks continues its mission in the hobby gardening sector. Empathy products are ecologically designed, pioneering the use of beneficial microbes in gardening, agriculture, and horticulture, strengthening soil biology, and reducing chemical reliance.

Zest's outdoor entertaining collection to feature at SOLEX
GTN Xtra Promotion

Timber garden furniture and outdoor leisure specialist, Zest is unveiling its ‘at one with nature’ outdoor cooking and entertaining collection at SOLEX (stand number #538).


Timber garden furniture and outdoor leisure specialist, Zest is unveiling its ‘at one with nature’ outdoor cooking and entertaining collection at SOLEX (stand number #538).

 

Since its new strategic consumer focus as Zest Outdoor Living www.zestoutdoorliving.co.uk , the company has developed a collection of innovative on-trend products which are not only about relaxation in the outdoor space, but also creating the complete – and naturally inspired - outdoor room for alfresco cooking, dining and relaxed entertaining.

 

Examples include: 

 

The Zest Terraza Outdoor Kitchen Range offers everything the consumer needs from a kitchen outdoors and blends beautifully into the natural environment – and has a very attractive RRP. With double kitchen units that come with a stainless steel top, they are perfect for food preparation and the open fronted corner unit provides masses of storage and is also perfect for setting up a pizza oven.

 

Zest’s Garden Pizza Oven Table with 360-degree access for fueling and cooking has been specifically designed with outdoor cooking in mind. The central tabletop holds the pizza oven with fold up sides for preparation and serving. 

 

Zest’s Garden Bar & Two Stool Set - a perfect party piece which is also space-saving and innovatively versatile.  

It is quick and easy to set up by simply opening the doors to make a sturdy base for the fold down counter which acts as a bar and opening the side panel doors to reveal fully fitted cabinet shelving ready to display drinks and glasses.

 

The Zest BBQ Side Table - ideal for preparation and serving.  It has two solid shelves and a 0.91m long table top for food.

 

Zest’s Stirling Arbour is chic and practical with ample seating for four people.  A sanctuary in which to enjoy dining in the garden, relaxation, or coffee and conversation.

 

 

The Zest Freya seating and dining range which includes a choice of chairs, tables, and benches to suit any size of outdoor space. 

 

The new Ascot 2.4m Pergola makes the entertaining space complete and will transform a garden seating area making it the ideal place for relaxation and entertaining. The pergola’s sturdy 90mm x 90mm frame comes with chamfered rafters.

 

Head of Commercial Development, Simon Davison commented, “We’re thrilled to be returning to Solex with a curated collection of products to show our garden centre stockists, department stores, and online retailers. We’ve made a huge commitment to understanding what todays’ consumers want and designing product accordingly.  It’s all about enjoying life outdoors and relaxing with nature.”

 

For further information about Zest’s wooden garden furniture and outdoor dining products, visit www.zestoutdoorliving.co.uk or email sales@zestoutdoorliving.co.uk

Summer starts at SOLEX 2024 - GTN's SOLEX 2024 Preview

GTN’s SOLEX 2024 preview.  In this issue:

  • Exhibition plan and exhibitor list
  • SOLEX Euros Afterparty and Awards
  • SOLEX BBQ Hero’s competition - The Chicken Euros
  • Bramblecrest for the good times
  • Exhibitor news from: Ascalon, BBQ Gourmet, Bizzotto, Celtic Leisure, Charles Taylor, Charlie Ovens, Dansons Pit Boss, Eco Fuego, Firepits UK, Firmans Direct, Glatz, Hartman, LeisureGrow, LifestyleGarden, Maze, Norfolk Leisure, Outback, Quest Leisure, Supremo, The Old Basket Supply Ltd, Tom Chambers, Woodlodge, Zest
  • SOLEX A Brighter Shade

GTN’s SOLEX 2024 preview.  In this issue:

  • Exhibition plan and exhibitor list
  • SOLEX Euros Afterparty and Awards
  • SOLEX BBQ Hero’s competition - The Chicken Euros
  • Bramblecrest for the good times
  • Exhibitor news from: Ascalon, BBQ Gourmet, Bizzotto, Celtic Leisure, Charles Taylor, Charlie Ovens, Dansons Pit Boss, Eco Fuego, Firepits UK, Firmans Direct, Glatz, Hartman, LeisureGrow, LifestyleGarden, Maze, Norfolk Leisure, Outback, Quest Leisure, Supremo, The Old Basket Supply Ltd, Tom Chambers, Woodlodge, Zest
  • SOLEX A Brighter Shade

 

Rosa ‘Believe in Yourself’ launched by Blue Diamond

Rosa ‘Believe in Yourself’ was officially launched at the RHS Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival this week by Blue Diamond Garden Centres and its brand Fryer’s Roses. From every purchase through sales at Fryers online and instore at garden centres, a donation of £1 will be made to the Stroke Association.


In Hampton’s Floral Marquee, Blue Diamond created a snapshot of The Octavia Hill Garden seen at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show. With the National Trust it has curated a collection of plants either used or inspired by the garden and was selling these, along with a range of seeds, to help visitors ‘get the Chelsea look’.

 

Rosa ‘Believe in Yourself’ was officially launched at the RHS Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival this week by Blue Diamond Garden Centres and its brand Fryer’s Roses. 

 

From every purchase through sales at Fryers online and instore at garden centres, a donation of £1 will be made to the Stroke Association.

 

On hand to introduce the rose was Tina Moore a stroke survivor who was lucky to receive treatment quickly and has gone on to recover and continue to live a fulfilling life.

 

An open pink/purple flower with slightly darker centre, the golden anthers are easy to reach for pollinating insects. Bred by Rosen Tantanu in Germany, it is expected to be a great seller. “It’s a beautiful shrub rose, reaching a height of 60 to 80cm and has a fantastic fragrance,” said Jill Kerr, Group Relationship Manager for Blue Diamond.

 

Plants will be available in April 2025 and it’s hoped that sales will continue to support the Stroke Association for several years to come. 

 

Michelle Dalmacio, Associate Director of the Stroke Assocaition, Jill Kerr of Blue Diamond and Tina Moore.

Peat-free takes centre stage at RHS Hampton Court festival

Throughout the week of the RHS Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival, visitors will be able to learn more about the peat as a natural resource, why it’s use in horticulture is being phased out and how to continue to grow the best garden plants...


 

Throughout the week of the RHS Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival, visitors will be able to learn more about the peat as a natural resource, why it’s use in horticulture is being phased out and how to continue to grow the best garden plants.

 

It’s the focus of The RHS Peat-Free Garden designed by Arit Anderston, created with industry support from Melcourt Industries and a host of growers. A combination of information boards and a garden setting, it provided inspiration and showed how plants grown in peat-free growing media can create an impressive display.

 

Melcourt’s Dr Victoria Wright, said that from vegetables through to ornamentals, it was a true representation of what can be grown in peat free. “We have supplied mulches, soil conditions and growing media and the garden shows you the diversity of the materials that are peat free, that they can be used in all sorts of situations and give a really lovely finish to the space,” she said. “With water features, sunny spaces and shade, this garden has something for everyone. Not only is it a gorgeous garden, but it's a garden that communicates a really strong story.”

 

Plant suppliers

  • Hillier Trees
  • New Wood Trees
  • Golden Valley Plants,
  • Sunnyside Rural Trust
  • Farplants, 
  • Rijnbeek Perennials
  • Sarah Raven
  • Lincolnshire Pond Plants, 
  • Majestic Trees
  • How Green Nursery

 
Plant and flower industry call for urgent action on import cost hikes

In an open letter ahead of the General Election, the UK’s Horticultural Trades Association and sister associations from across Europe have stressed the urgent need for political attention to the mounting cost crises of imports...


 

In an open letter ahead of the General Election, the UK’s Horticultural Trades Association and sister associations from across Europe have stressed the urgent need for political attention to the mounting cost crises of imports.  

 

The letter calls for engagement and action on costs, systems, data, and future plans. It provides multiple examples of the costs and challenges hitting real-life SMEs throughout the supply chain and where costs and pinch-points are reducing the viability of trade for many.  

 

James Barnes, HTA’s Chairman, commented: “We are two months into a fundamental shift in how the UK environmental horticulture sector supply chains operate, leaving the sector with cost hikes and uncertainty at all stages in the import process. The general election has diverted political attention from a crisis in how we supply the UK’s 30 million gardeners, the viability of a sector worth £28.8 billion to GDP and employing almost 700,000 jobs.

 

“With the election just days away, the industry is calling for urgent engagement and action to ensure the UK’s border policy is fit for moving plants and flowers this season and to sustain future green growth. As an industry, we face pressures across the board, from weather to regulations to sector-specific issues, like Plant Breeders’ Rights. We ask all politicians and policymakers to act swiftly to smooth out border challenges, address costs, and take seriously the sector’s need for an SPS or plant health agreement with the EU.

 

“We are a sector ideally placed to deliver on the challenges of any government – from green growth to net-zero, health and wellbeing to innovation – very few industries can provide the solutions for so much. With our partners across Europe, we hope to see such close collaborative working resume here in the UK to deliver for environmental horticulture and the nation as a whole.” 

 

The full letter can be read here. 

Chicken Euros: SOLEX's Fire Food & Outdoor Living Evening returns for its second sizzling year
Fire Food & Outdoor Living Event | Wednesday 10 July | 1800 -2000 | Hall 5 | NEC, Birmingham

Mark your calendar for Wednesday,10 July because the Fire Food and Outdoor Living Evening, in partnership with BBQ magazine, makes its highly anticipated return for the second year running from 6 to 8 pm in the Loving Outdoor Living Zone at SOLEX 24...


Mark your calendar for Wednesday,10 July because the Fire Food and Outdoor Living Evening, in partnership with BBQ magazine, makes its highly anticipated return for the second year running from 6 to 8 pm in the Loving Outdoor Living Zone at SOLEX 24.

 

This year, six teams will go head-to-head in the Chicken Euros competition, paying homage to the UEFA Euros tournament, in hopes of securing the prestigious BBQ Hero Trophy. With a thrilling cooking showdown and fantastic prizes, this event is not to be missed.

 

Joining us for the evening is renowned TV personality and Horticulturalist David Domoney. With his extensive knowledge and experience working on popular shows like ITV’s Love Your Garden and ITV’s This Morning , David will not only be your host for the evening but he will enlighten us on the nutritional value of herbs, how to grow them, and how best to use them in flavouring food. He will also share his expertise on growing your own fruit and the health benefits that come with it. Alongside him, BBQ Magazine's esteemed chef, farmer, and events guru Ian Jones (BEM) will be sure to keep you entertained.

 

The Fire Food and Outdoor Living Evening promises to be an unforgettable experience complete with friendly competition, delectable food, refreshing drinks, and lively entertainment. It's the perfect opportunity to expand your network and mingle with colleagues while enjoying all that the industry has to offer. Don't miss out on this spectacular event and secure your spot on the guest list today. 

 

BOOK NOW  to join us for an evening of excitement, delicious food, and good company. 

 

 

 

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

Forest Garden aquires and relaunches Posh Shed Company

The Forest Garden Group has announced the successful acquisition of The Original Posh Shed Company, including all brand, designs and intellectual property...


 

The Forest Garden Group has announced the successful acquisition of The Original Posh Shed Company, including all brand, designs and intellectual property.

 

The group si the UK’s largest manufacturer of sheds, fencing, and garden timber structures, and will be relaunching the brand at RHS Hampton Court.

 

Guy Grainger, Chairman of The Forest Garden Group, said: “We have long admired The Posh Shed Company brand for its exceptional designs and marketing.

 

“It was, and still is, considered the premier garden building brand. Our mission in reviving The Posh Shed Company has been to preserve the essence of their original designs while developing ranges that represent the pinnacle of garden buildings in the UK.

 

“Utilising our group’s extensive design, manufacturing, and installation capabilities, I am confident that these are not only the finest sheds our group has ever produced but the best available in the market today.

 

“We are thrilled to bring The Posh Shed Company back and will be launching the new range at RHS Hampton Court this year.”

 

The Original Posh Shed Company will operate as a distinct division within the Forest Garden Group, marketing its offerings through its dedicated website (www.theposhshedcompany.co.uk) and at key RHS shows.

 

The buildings will be manufactured and assembled at a new facility on the Hunt House Sawmills site in Clows Top, Worcestershire, which includes a state-of-the-art paint shop.

 

A selection of the newly redeveloped shed and storage ranges will be showcased at the RHS Hampton Court Garden Festival, staying true to the original design concepts.

 

Standard features include a choice of seven colours, double glazing, multiple roof options, a 20-year guarantee, and full installation. The sheds are available in six size options with fully insulated upgrades.

 

Visit The Original Posh Shed Company at stand HC301 at the RHS Hampton Court show from 1st July to 7th July, or online at www.theposhshedcompany.co.uk.

Coolings re-opens restored Pump Garden at Wych Cross

Coolings Garden Centres has officially opened its Pump Garden at the Wych Cross site with a guest appearance from former TV & radio broadcaster, Sue Lawley, who cut the ribbon to mark the opening of the garden...


 

Coolings Garden Centres has officially opened its Pump Garden at the Wych Cross site with a guest appearance from former TV & radio broadcaster, Sue Lawley, who cut the ribbon to mark the opening of the garden. 

 

Coolings customers were invited to attend the grand opening event, which celebrated the garden’s restoration. A large number were there to enjoy a tour of the garden, with celebratory drinks and canapes following the welcome speech delivered by Ian Hazon, Coolings’ Production & Operations Director.

 

The half-acre Pump Garden celebrates the heritage and history of the Wych Cross site which spans back to 1939, when, the now fully restored water pump, that sits proudly in the garden on display, was originally installed. 

 

 

The garden, which took three years to renovate, is planted with roses that Coolings grows themselves, along with mixed planting that mirrors original designs from the past. There is a beautiful natural pond too. 

 

A tree was planted during the event, in memory of Paul Cooling, with chairman Gary Carvosso reading a poem in tribute.

 

The garden is now open to the public at Coolings Wych Cross, Colemans Hatch Road, Forest Row, East Sussex RH18 5JW.

 

The HTA presents on cross-border trade and peat-policy at European meeting

Representing the Horticultural Trades Association, Guy Massey of Joseph Rochfords Gardens Limited and Jennifer Pheasey, HTA’s Director of Public Affairs, were invited to present on key issues of interest to European supply chains at the European Nurserystock Association (ENA) Summer meeting in Budapest. 


 

Representing the Horticultural Trades Association, Guy Massey of Joseph Rochfords Gardens Limited and Jennifer Pheasey, HTA’s Director of Public Affairs, were invited to present on key issues of interest to European supply chains at the European Nurserystock Association (ENA) Summer meeting in Budapest. 

 

The programme of meetings and visits commenced on Tuesday, 25 June, with delegates from across Europe. It included a presentation from the HTA on the value of the UK horticultural sector market, recent developments on at-border checks, and the UK’s progress and challenges in the transition to peat-free. 

 

Jennifer Pheasey, Director of Public Affairs, HTA, commented: “Importing over £753 million worth of plants and plant materials, with the majority from the EU, having the opportunity to present to sister associations on cross-border trade issues is critical to hear their experience, take questions and further dialogue on costs and mitigating actions. Like many of our members, we value our international contacts and are keen to share our ambition that the UK seeks an SPS or Plant Health Agreement with the EU. This is the top ask in the HTA’s Environmental Horticulture Manifesto and will require international support. Collaboration is key, given our volume of imports; this includes the need to engage on the challenges and progress to peat-free. Whilst the growth of the UK industry remains our priority, in recent months, we have been working ever closer with other national, regional and international associations on shared issues and look forward to continuing to build ever-closer ties.” 

 

Guy Massey, Production Manager, Joseph Rochford Gardens Limited, added: “As the HTA’s nominated representative for ENA, the ability to represent the industry, see best-practice and participate in an international exchange of experiences and advice is invaluable. The interest in the UK, as a significant market and international horticulture sector, cannot be underestimated. I am committed to increasing our work together and growing Europe-wide learnings on green city initiatives, attracting skilled workforces and engaging with young people, which are common challenges across many countries. I thank the ENA team for their excellent meetings and events programme.”  

 
Final chance to help shape the future of UK horticulture

Perennial, the charity dedicated to supporting people in horticulture, is calling on everyone in the industry to take part in its largest ever survey. There is still time for you to complete and help share the survey, providing a vital snapshot into the wellbeing of all those working in horticulture...


 

Perennial, the charity dedicated to supporting people in horticulture, is calling on everyone in the industry to take part in its largest ever survey. There is still time for you to complete and help share the survey, providing a vital snapshot into the wellbeing of all those working in horticulture.

 

Make Your Voice Heard:

Building on the success of the 2021 Health & Wellbeing Survey, Perennial is asking all those in the horticultural sectors to participate in the 2024 survey, as their feedback is crucial and will truly make a difference.

 

Why Your Input Matters:

Perennial wants to understand more about people’s daily lives, both at work and outside of it, to develop their services and inform the industry about key challenges. The anonymous survey is open until 30th June and will be analysed by the University of Exeter. The findings will be shared this autumn.

 

Past Impact:

In 2021, Perennial discovered that 85% of respondents had poor or below-average mental wellbeing. This led to the successful rollout of a Mental Health First Aid Program, training nearly 100 individuals across 11 sectors and 48 companies.

 

Future Goals:

By sharing the survey findings, Perennial aims to support the industry in addressing these challenges collaboratively. Julia Hayne, Perennial’s Director of Services, emphasised, “This research will allow us to create effective tools and strategies to improve wellbeing now and in the future, leading to better futures for those working in horticulture and their families. We therefore encourage you to complete the survey this week.”

 

Take Action Today:

If you work in horticulture, please spare 10-15 minutes to complete the survey and share it with colleagues and friends, before it closes on Sunday 30th June 2024. Your participation is vital in helping to make a positive change.

 

Complete the survey now: perennial.org.uk/survey

Re-booking opens for HTA National Plant Show 2025

Following a successful show, the HTA has announced that next year’s HTA National Plant Show will take place from Wednesday 18 to Thursday 19 June 2025 at NAEC Stoneleigh...


 

Following a successful show, the HTA has announced that next year’s HTA National Plant Show will take place from Wednesday 18 to Thursday 19 June 2025 at NAEC Stoneleigh.

 

The 2024 event welcomed over a thousand visitors and saw over 248 stands presenting more than 157 companies' products to potential customers across both halls. The event provided businesses with an opportunity to showcase everything from seeds, bulbs, house plants and a wide range of garden plants to labelling and product information, growing media, display benching and machinery.

 

New plant award winners 2024

The Bransford Webbs Plant Company’s Digitalis purpurea Apple Blossom was recognised as Best in Show at the New Plant Awards, sponsored by the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS). Farplants Sales Ltd - Spiraea WALBERTON’S® PLUM took home the Visitor Vote, sponsored by Floramedia.

 

See the full list of new Plant Award winners here: https://hta.org.uk/national-plant-show/show-features/new-plant-awards

 

Seminars

Attendees heard from industry professionals on key topics in horticulture, including the new Plant Awards Announcement, Automation in Horticulture - hosted by Dura-ID, and Growing Your Team - hosted by MorePeople. HTA's Director of Research and Insights, David Denny, spoke about sustainability for gardeners and the wider horticultural industry, plus there were networking events for Women in Horticulture and the YPHA. The programme also included key topics in the run-up to the general elections, including advice for HTA members from the HTA’s Jennifer Pheasey and David Lydiat in engaging with prospective parliamentary candidates. There was an honest panel discussion on the current issues with Trade and Borders and a practical session presented by HTA's Wayne Brough and RHS's Raghavendra Prasad for Growing Media: Life Beyond Peat.

 

Thank you to the HTA members Whetman Garden Plants, Beaver Plants Ltd and Pentland Plants Ltd who donated the plants from their National Plant Show stands to South Lodge Care Home, London Road, Leicester.

 

Elia Johnston, HTA Director of Marketing said: “This year’s show was a huge success; the halls were buzzing with activity and we’ve had some fantastic feedback so far. A key platform for business-to-business interactions, the event is an important opportunity in the horticultural calendar to showcase the latest plants and innovations. I’d encourage new and existing exhibitors to plan for next year and join us for two days of networking, learning, and inspiration at the HTA National Plant Show 2025.”

 

Current Exhibitors can rebook now for National Plant Show 2025 for an exclusive discounted rate which is only available until 22 July 2024.

https://hta.org.uk/national-plant-show/booking-form

 
Meteorologist Peter Gibbs to speak at Horticulture, the Conference dinner

Meteorologist and former BBC weather forecaster Peter Gibbs is confirmed to speak at the annual dinner at Horticulture, the Conference which takes place on at the ICC in Birmingham on Wednesday 25 September 2024...


 

Meteorologist and former BBC weather forecaster Peter Gibbs is confirmed to speak at the annual dinner at Horticulture, the Conference which takes place on at the ICC in Birmingham on Wednesday 25 September 2024.

 

The conference brings together businesses across the industry for inspiring and thought-provoking discussions, as well as providing an opportunity to network and catch up with colleagues.

 

Following a degree in physics and geography at Newcastle University, Peter joined the British Antarctic Survey as a meteorologist, living and working in Antarctica for two years at the isolated Halley research station. He then went on to a more than 30-year career as a front-line forecaster with the UK’s Met Office, 20 years of that with the national weather broadcasting team at the BBC.

 

A Fellow of the Royal Meteorological Society and the Royal Geographical Society, he regularly chairs the iconic Radio 4 show ‘Gardeners’ Question Time’ and is passionate about tackling the biodiversity and climate crises. Peter spends much of his spare time doing outreach work to improve public understanding of climate change, while also working with local nature conservation groups around his Berkshire home.

 

Alan Down, HTA President, said: “Peter's blend of scientific expertise, media presence, and community involvement makes him a prominent figure in meteorology and climate change advocacy. We’re really looking forward to hearing his insights at our conference dinner.”

 

Horticulture, the Conference provides a platform for delegates to network with industry peers, discuss key issues and innovations, and look at ways of working together. The conference programme will cover key topics including business resilience, consumer behaviour and workforce changes.  This year’s dinner will be a special celebration of the HTA’s 125-year anniversary and will feature the presentation of the 2024 Ornamental Grower of the Year Awards and the Pearson Memorial Award.

 

Take advantage of the early bird rate and book your place by 30 June 2024.

 

For an exclusive opportunity to secure your spot at a discounted rate, book your space by 30 June 2024 to guarantee your place and save on ticket prices.

 

Horticulture, The Conference takes place at The International Convention Centre, Birmingham. For more information and to book your place, visit: https://hta.org.uk/conference

LOFA supporting Dementia UK & Mind

Every year, LOFA selects a variety of charities to receive financial contributions, focusing on organisations that resonate with its business values or hold personal significance within the industry or for its members. This year LOFA has chosen Dementia UK and Mind...


Every year, LOFA selects a variety of charities to receive financial contributions, focusing on organisations that resonate with its business values or hold personal significance within the industry or for its members. This year LOFA has chosen Dementia UK and Mind. 

 

Dementia encompasses a spectrum of progressive conditions that impair brain function. Each type of dementia disrupts the proper functioning of brain cells (neurons) in specific regions, hindering a person’s capacity to remember, think, and communicate. Doctors commonly use the term “dementia” to describe prevalent symptoms—such as memory loss, confusion, and difficulties with speech and comprehension—that deteriorate over time. Although dementia can affect individuals at any age, it is predominantly seen in those over 65 years old. It is projected that by 2025, over one million individuals in the UK will be diagnosed with dementia, meaning nearly all of us will know someone afflicted by this condition.

 

Lorna Hawkins, the Corporate Partnership Manager, pictured here alongside LOFA Chairman Steve Millington, remarked: “This generosity will profoundly impact families living with dementia, and we are immensely grateful. Simply put, we couldn’t offer the essential support to families dealing with dementia without benefactors like LOFA.”

 

For the past three years, LOFA has extended its support to Mind, a charity making mental health a priority in our ever-evolving and often daunting world. Mind stands against injustices in healthcare, the workplace, and legal systems that complicate life for those facing mental health challenges. The organisation provides crucial support, information, and advice to those in need, creating a formidable network of individuals and communities.

 

Chris Newman, LOFA council member, recently handed over the donation cheque to Dominic Buchan, the Senior New Corporate Partnerships Manager, at Mind’s headquarters in London. This partnership underscores LOFA’s commitment to mental health and the well-being of our communities.

 

LOFA are also supporters of Greenfingers, Thrive and Perennial in 2024.

Blue Diamond Garden Centres and its brand Fryer’s Roses set to launch a new and exclusive rose

Blue Diamond Garden Centres are exhibiting at RHS Hampton Garden Festival where they have two stands, one in the Floral Marquee in collaboration with the National Trust (Stand FM 163) and an exhibit in the Festival of Roses (FR 701), showcasing their own brand, Fryer’s Roses...


 

Blue Diamond Garden Centres are exhibiting at RHS Hampton Garden Festival where they have two stands, one in the Floral Marquee in collaboration with the National Trust (Stand FM 163) and an exhibit in the Festival of Roses (FR 701), showcasing their own brand, Fryer’s Roses.

 

Launched by Blue Diamond Garden Centres on behalf of the charity the Stroke Association, rosa ‘Believe in Yourself’ is a new and exclusive rose, bred by Rosen Tantau. This is a compact shrub rose, to a height of approximately 50-80cms in height when fully grown, with open pollinator-friendly, highly fragrant blooms and is purple/pink in colour.

 

The Blue Diamond Group of Garden Centres of which Fryer’s Roses is a part of, will donate £1 from every Believe in Yourself rose sold through their garden centres and through Fryer’s online or by phone, to the Stroke Association (a charity registered in England and Wales (no 211015) and Scotland (no SC037789), operating as a charity across the UK.

Over 88,000 people survive a stroke every year in the UK, but surviving is just the start of a long and traumatic recovery journey. The Stroke Association is the only charity in the UK providing life-long support for all stroke survivors and their families.

 

The charity provides tailored support to tens of thousands of stroke survivors each year, funds vital scientific research, and campaigns to secure the best care for everyone affected by stroke. The Stroke Association is here to help survivors and their families find the strength and support they need to find their way back to life.

 

Saul Heselden, Head of Corporate Partnerships at the Stroke Association, said: “Mums, dads, grandparents, young people, even children − anyone can have a stroke, and its impact on lives at any age is traumatic. Every experience of stroke is different, and each journey of recovery is unique. We believe no survivor should have to face life after stroke without stroke support.

 

“Right now, the Stroke Association can only reach one-third of the survivors who most need support. We want to reach all those in need of our support, but we can only do this with the generosity of our donors and supporters like Blue Diamond Garden Centres. We’re incredibly grateful they have chosen to launch the beautiful rosa ‘Believe in Yourself’ to support the Stroke Association and raise vital funds for people affected by stroke.”

 

To find out more about this rose and other charities Blue Diamond Garden Centres supports please visit bluediamond.gg/charity-roses

 

Where to buy the roses from:

The new rose will be available to buy from Stand FM 701 in the Festival of Roses marquee at the RHS Hampton Court Garden Festival, and online* at www.fryersroses.co.uk, whilst stocks last. Bare root roses can also be pre-ordered online for November onwards delivery*.

 

*Delivery charges may apply.

GARDENA launches new Summer TV campaign

GARDENA, a leading brand for watering and hand tools, has launched an exciting new TV campaign, featured on Sky AdSmart, Netflix, and YouTube...


 

GARDENA, a leading brand for watering and hand tools, has launched an exciting new TV campaign, featured on Sky AdSmart, Netflix, and YouTube.

 

The advert aims to captivate viewers nationwide with an expected reach of over 120 million, reinforcing GARDENA’s significant multi-million pound marketing investment, supported by in-store activity, stand-out POS, PR, digital, print and influencer activity.

 

Sarah Bentham UK Marketing Manager at GARDENA said: “Launching our TV advert is a thrilling milestone for our 2024 marketing campaign. The advert beautifully showcases the extensive GARDENA range, highlighting its most popular watering and cutting tools. We can’t wait to see how consumers react to the ad, and hope it inspires people to realise their gardening dreams.”

 

Edward Cantle, Channel Sales Manager at GARDENA, said: “GARDENA is committed to growing in the UK and enhancing brand awareness is a key part of that mission. We are Europe’s number one watering and cutting brand and our ambition is to replicate that success in the UK.”

 

Over recent years, GARDENA has grown significantly, opening hundreds of new doors in garden centres, DIY and independent retailers across the UK.

 

Watch GARDENA’s TV ad here; https://youtu.be/oLhLr_AsiP4

 

With over 50 years of experience in creating high-quality gardening tools for passionate gardeners across the word, GARDENA is committed to helping gardeners achieve their gardening goals.

GARDENA was founded in Ulm Germany in 1961 and introduced the revolutionary Original GARDENA System in 1968. With the vast majority of its products still made in Germany, the brand prides itself on creating high-quality tools that are engineered to last.

 

Discover more about GARDENA head to www.gardena.com/uk, or to become a stockist, contact Edward.cantle@husqvarnagroup.com.

Retailers can earn their stripes for a sporty summer with Johnsons Lawn Seed

With Euro 2024 and Wimbledon sparking summer excitement, now is the perfect time for retailers to turn customer excitement into sales by creating beautiful, playable lawns. Johnsons Lawn Seed, the UK's leading supplier of premium grass seed, offers retailers the ideal partnership to meet this demand, boost sales and create champion-worthy lawns...


 

With Euro 2024 and Wimbledon sparking summer excitement, now is the perfect time for retailers to turn customer excitement into sales by creating beautiful, playable lawns. Johnsons Lawn Seed, the UK's leading supplier of premium grass seed, offers retailers the ideal partnership to meet this demand, boost sales and create champion-worthy lawns.

 

The UEFA European Championship 2024 is well underway, and the nation is buzzing with football fever. And with Wimbledon also on the horizon, now has never been a better time for garden centres to encourage customers to transform their gardens into a mini-pitch for epic games and friendly competitions. 

 

The Johnsons Lawn Seed portfolio offers only the premium-grade grass tested to ensure the perfect playing surface for budding stars., whilst surging interest in the summer of sport can be capitalised on with eye-catching displays, featuring complimentary products like sprinkler systems, rollers, aerators, and edging tools, whilst Euros-themed promotions to have customers buzzing. 

 

As used by sports professionals

Professional sports stadiums demand playing surfaces that endure constant use while remaining flawlessly green.  That's why tetraploid ryegrass is a game-changer! Now available for home lawns thanks to Johnsons, this innovative grass boasts a unique genetic advantage. Unlike standard ryegrass with two sets of chromosomes, tetraploid ryegrass features four, translating to several benefits for your lawn:

 

Denser Sward: Tetraploid Ryegrass requires less seed to establish a thick, lush lawn than diploid varieties. This translates to cost-effectiveness for you and a quicker turnaround time for achieving a professional-looking playing surface.

 

Superior Colour Retention: The enhanced genetic makeup of Tetraploid Ryegrass contributes to its vibrant green colour. This exceptional colour depth not only enhances the aesthetics of your lawn but also translates well if you envision using your garden for backyard sports activities.

 

Fast Germination: Tetraploid Ryegrass germinates quickly, allowing for efficient repairs of damaged areas or reseeding during off-seasons.

 

Durability: The robust nature of tetraploid ryegrass makes it ideal for the high traffic and wear-and-tear experienced on a sports field or in the garden over the summer. Whether it be a family gathering, garden party, children’s games or a pet playground, it recovers well from frequent use and maintains its density.

 

Don't miss the kick-off! The Johnsons portfolio

Johnsons was the first company to start using advanced tetraploid amenity ryegrasses in lawn mixtures in 2015. Now its portfolio contains a range of innovative lawn care solutions, that can stand up to the toughest serves a family throw at it!

 

Tuffgrass with Dog Patch Resistance uses innovative tetraploid perennial ryegrass. This special type of grass seed develops deep roots fast, making it super resilient against dog patches, scorching summer days, and even winter chills. Thanks to tetraploid ryegrass, the deep root system helps the lawn thrive in dry weather and maintain its lush green appearance. Plus, it requires less watering during hot, dry periods.

 

Developed through a year of cutting-edge seed production technology, Lawn Thickener is a revolutionary product that features next-generation tetraploid perennial ryegrass seeds - "super seeds" with double the chromosomes for faster germination, improved drought tolerance, less watering needs, and increased resilience. Lawn Thickener guarantees 30% more grass growth than uncoated seeds, and each seed boasts a unique two-in-one Seedbooster® coating for fertiliser and bird deterrence, making it child, pet, and environmentally friendly.

 

Quick Lawn's Accelerator formula tackles three key points for a sports-ready garden -  faster germination, quicker lawn establishment, and less watering (just a third compared to usual). This innovative seed, suitable for new lawns or overseeding, features a wetting agent that speeds up water absorption for a strong, thick lawn, even in challenging conditions. It also promises 38% more grass growth in the first week compared to non-coated seeds. Its technology delivers a burst of biostimulants (seaweed extract, humic acids, etc.) to kickstart growth, which then transitions to a normal rate once established.

 

Guy Jenkins, Consumer Manager said: “This summer, give your customers the chance to enjoy a vibrant and lush lawn inspired by the immaculate Euro football pitches and grass courts of Wimbledon. It's the perfect opportunity for garden centres to inspire customers to invest in the products that will help them achieve their dream lawn.”

 
G Plants embraces a peat-free future

In a significant move for sustainable gardening, G Plants has announced a comprehensive shift towards peat-free products...


 

In a significant move for sustainable gardening, G Plants has announced a comprehensive shift towards peat-free products. 

 

Committed to environmental responsibility, the company is hoping to achieve complete peat-free status by the end of 2025, aligning with the upcoming DEFRA peat ban in England.

 

Studies and research conducted by G Plants has revealed some exciting discoveries about the relationship between soil types, seeds, and plants, as well as growth outcomes which will pioneer G Plants' offering in the future from autumn 2024.

 

Growing medium trials

Since January 2024, all new product development has been firmly focused on creating peat-free solutions with a core emphasis on making it easy to grow your own flowers and produce at home – all while using recyclable packaging and biodegradable or reusable components.

 

The G Plants study shed light on the growth progress of various seeds in different soil mediums, offering valuable insights for both gardeners and growers. The research focused on peat-free soil, coir brick medium, and granulated coir, comparing their effectiveness in nurturing a variety of plants in the G Plants portfolio.

 

The research, which began in February of this year revealed that tomato seeds thrived best in peat-free soil, exhibiting healthy development and vibrant green foliage. While cosmos seeds initially showed promise in all mediums, they suffered setbacks after transplanting. Basil seeds demonstrated significant growth in coir while struggling in peat-free soil. Notably, seeds planted in granulated coir displayed slower germination rates and had less vibrant leaves compared to other options.

 

Peat-free soil emerged as the clear winner for tomato seed growth. Cosmos seeds also showed a preference for this peat-free alternative. While the coir brick initially produced slower germination for basil seeds, G Plants will continue to test. Granulated coir, despite initial concerns, ultimately yielded positive results, indicating the need for sufficient observation time.

 

Coir as a medium: Benefits and Considerations

The G Plants team also delved into the advantages and challenges of using coir soil, which offers a pH-neutral range (5.2 to 6.8), ideal for many plants, excellent water retention, drainage, and aeration, promoting healthy root systems. Coir's inherent anti-fungal properties and ability to reduce pest risk further enhance its appeal.

 

However, the study identified potential drawbacks associated with coir. Improperly rinsed coir may contain high salt levels, hindering plant growth. The coir growing medium also can lock out essential nutrients like calcium, magnesium, and iron, essential for optimal plant health.

 

High-performance peat-free gardening

Using the knowledge they gained from their research, G Plants has a mission to phase out peat moss and transition to high-quality peat-free composts for their grow sets, making it easy for even novice gardeners to grow plants and food in their own homes. The new peat-free mix, carefully planned by G Plants' gardening experts, uses eco-friendly materials, removing this ensures plants grow well in all settings, letting British gardeners create thriving outdoor and indoor gardens without harming the environment.

 

The peat-free products for autumn and winter 2024 include the BEES® Gifts Novelty French Bulldogs, Green Ribbon Daffodil Sphere, BEES® Gifts Seed Shaker Tubes, Bee Friends® ECO-Pack Seed Bombs and Seed Shakers, with more to follow as the season progresses.

 

Daniel Howarth, Managing Director at G Plants said: “At G Plants, we care about healthy gardens and a healthy planet. Switching to peat-free products by the end of 2025 is a big step towards a greener future for everyone. We're confident these new options will still give retailers the sales they expect and gardeners the great results they deserve, all while protecting our valuable peatlands. We're constantly researching and developing peat-free growing mediums, and this emphasises G Plants' ongoing commitment to innovation and providing the best possible options for gardeners.”

 

Retailers interested in stocking G Plants' new Autumn/Winter range are encouraged to contact the G Plants Sales team at sales@gplants.com  or phone 01254 790350. For more information about G Plants and its range of eco-friendly gardening solutions, please visit www.gplants.com

Hillier furthers commitment to sustainable growing

Hillier has commenced the build of a new state-of-the-art growing structure at its Hampshire nursery, as part of the latest step in its sustainability commitment...


 

Hillier has commenced the build of a new state-of-the-art growing structure at its Hampshire nursery, as part of the latest step in its sustainability commitment.

 

The new structure spans an impressive 1.2 hectares of the 40-hectare Hillier container nurseries where over one million plants a year are currently grown, a number Hillier hopes to increase with new nursery developments.

 

With ever-changing weather conditions, Hillier was seeking a solution to enable its growing team to produce high-quality plants at the right time of year, no matter the conditions. The new structure can deliver stable temperatures due to its large air mass and 45% roof venting capacity that will keep plants cool in summer, but can also be closed to add extra warmth when needed. It boasts high levels of light transmission to help the plants grow as well.  A modern precision irrigation system will enable accurate delivery of water to Hillier’s ‘peat free’ plants.

 

Twenty per cent of the custom-made greenhouse will be covered by an automated shade screen that is linked to light levels to aid the growth of shade-loving plants such as Japanese Maples, Ferns and Hostas. Temperature, humidity and air movement will be regulated by an environmental computer linked to fans and vents. Efficient and accurate irrigation will be achieved with a modern sprinkler system to establish crops.  A capillary floor will water plants from below, once established, keeping the foliage dry to reduce the risk of disease. This is controlled via an automated system that will be linked in the future to soil moisture probes to automate the triggering of irrigation. A liquid feed system will enable the feeding of plants to optimise crop nutrition.

 

Designed by Belgium company, VDH Foliekassen, and installed by Agrowser with internal fittings and project management by Ebtech, the new structure has specifically been designed for its suitability for the range of plants Hillier grows for its garden centres and online shop. The project has been overseen by Charles Carr, head of wholesale nurseries at Hillier.

 

Chris Francis, Retail & Wholesale Director said: “This is the latest move in our growing journey and a very exciting step for our nursery. We’ve been searching for a new structure to enable us to grow better plants in sustainable growing media, at an efficient rate, maximising the number of plants we can grow, no matter the weather, and this delivers exactly that! We look forward to being able to cut the ribbon and start potting this Autumn.”

 

The new structure is just one of many strings to Hillier’s sustainability bow. As one of the leading growers in the UK, Hillier is involved in many peat-free initiatives. The company has been playing a significant part in evolving the horticultural industry’s usage of peat-free compost, and actively supports research and development investigating alternatives to peat. This includes the RHS Peat-Free Fellowship, the largest peat-free collaborative research project globally where Hillier has taken part in peat-free growing trials and further research schemes. Educating gardeners on the need to switch to peat-free compost is also a core focus for Hillier and a new peat-free hub was recently added to the Hillier website (www.hillier.co.uk/peat-free) as part of an ongoing campaign to inform its customers. The company was amongst the first nurseries to become 100% peat-free across both its production nursery and retail garden centres, and all Hillier plants are grown in peat-free compost.

 

Continuing to progress the company’s commitment to sustainability is a core focus for the Hillier new chairman, George Hillier, who took over the position earlier this year. 

 

Discussing this, George commented: “Being a grower of trees and plants, goes a long way to offsetting our carbon footprint and we continue to focus on areas of our business where we can make positive changes. As we believe aiming to be net zero is not enough, we do not rest on our laurels. Hillier has always been a pioneer within horticulture, pursuing policies that have proved both commercially and environmentally beneficial, and this is something I really wish to progress as Chairman. We are constantly striving to further our environmental policies, be this our robust biosecurity policy; having our own reservoir on our container nursery for irrigation; implementing the latest technology and sustainable initiatives in our garden centres; and now enhancing the commercial facilities at our nursery.”

 

In 2018, Hillier joined The Planet Mark. This is a certification programme that recognises companies committing to continuous improvements in sustainability allowing them to measure and find opportunities to reduce carbon emissions, energy and water consumption, waste, and more. Since joining, the business has reduced its carbon footprint by 5% each year.

 

Expansion in its retail portfolio to now owning 22 garden centres, brings expansion opportunities for the Hillier environmental commitment too. The most recent example of this is with Hillier Newbury centre which recently saw the completion of the largest redevelopment project that the company has undertaken, making it the largest site in the group. As such, Hillier has been able to introduce sustainable initiatives such as the company’s first rainwater harvesting system in a centre that will be used for nurturing the plants, as well as electric car charging points and solar panels throughout.

 

For further information about Hillier and its environmental policies visit www.hillier.co.uk

Hannah Cook: bring on the plants, A Bridgerton Chelsea, 26 Page SOLEX Preview, plus more in GTN June/July issue. Read on-line here

GTN June/July 2024 – SOLEX Preview. this issue:

  • Bring on the plants – GTN talks to Hannah Cook
  • Welcome to NOVA’s new Experience Centre
  • A Bridgerton Chelsea Flower Show
  • More showrooms to visit
  • Outdoor adventures with Fandango Fire Tools
  • SOLEX 2024 – GTN’s 26-page show preview
        • SOLEX show floor plan
        • Welcome to the SOLEX Afterparty and Awards
        • Celebrating BBQ Hero’s at SOLEX
        • Bramblecrest on a mission
        • News and latest products from SOLEX exhibitors
        • SOLEX green initiatives
  • Greenfingers opens new garden
  • NOVA brand and business model revamp
  • GIMA golf day
  • Glee’s 50 Year Hero’s
  • Chelsea’s plant winners- GTN’s Planteria
  • Promoting the industry - HTA Viewpoint
  • Innovation driving retail – GIMA Viewpoint

GTN June/July 2024 – SOLEX Preview.  In this issue: Bring on the plants – GTN talks to Hannah Cook, Welcome to NOVA’s new Experience Centre, A Bridgerton Chelsea Flower Show, More showrooms to visit , Outdoor adventures with Fandango Fire Tools, SOLEX 2024 – GTN’s 26-page show preview, SOLEX show floor plan, Welcome to the SOLEX Afterparty and Awards, Celebrating BBQ Hero’s at SOLEX, Bramblecrest on a mission, News and latest products from SOLEX exhibitors, SOLEX green initiatives, Greenfingers opens new garden, NOVA brand and business model revamp, GIMA golf day, Glee’s 50 Year Hero’s, Chelsea’s plant winners- GTN’s Planteria, Promoting the industry - HTA Viewpoint, Innovation driving retail – GIMA Viewpoint.

 

 

 
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GIMA Buyer Connect: The Klondyke Group – 8th August, Virtual Event

GIMA’s Buyer Connect events continue later this summer with a virtual event in partnership with the Klondyke Group. Taking place on Thursday 8th August, the event will be a must-attend for anyone wanting to promote their horticultural products to one of the UK’s leading garden centre chains...


GIMA’s Buyer Connect events continue later this summer with a virtual event in partnership with the Klondyke Group. Taking place on Thursday 8th August, the event will be a must-attend for anyone wanting to promote their horticultural products to one of the UK’s leading garden centre chains. 

 

With 23 stores located across the UK under the banner of Klondyke & Strikes Garden Centres the potential presented by stocking this industry goliath is significant. GIMA’s virtual speed networking event will allow potential suppliers to showcase their latest product innovation and bestselling ranges in timed 20-minute appointments with Klondyke’s Horticultural buyer.

 

Free to attend for GIMA members, or priced at £120 + VAT for non-members, suppliers* of the following product categories are invited to register their interest in this latest Buyers Connect event. Please note that whilst GIMA aim to fulfil all requests, the team is reliant on the buyers selecting those companies that they wish to see. Therefore, appointments cannot be guaranteed.

 

  • Seeds
  • Wild Bird Care
  • Fertilisers
  • Gloves, Footwear & Kneelers
  • Hanging Baskets
  • Garden Accessories including Plant Supports
  • Doormats & Handy Packs
  • Winter Products
  • Paint & Preserve
  • Compost
  • Garden Chemicals
  • Netting & Fleece
  • Propagation
  • Tools
  • Watering
  • Machinery
  • Gardeners Gift
  • Autumn Products

Book now!

Any supplier interested in joining the GIMA Buyer Connect event with the Klondyke Group will need to complete an application form. These can be accessed by contacting the GIMA team directly or via www.gima.org.uk/buyer-connect/. The closing date for applications is Friday 12th July 2024.

 

Find out more

For further information about GIMA and its wide range of member benefits, please contact the GIMA Office on (01959) 564947 or info@gima.org.uk

 
PLANTARIUM|GROEN-Direkt provides an overview and insight into the market for garden plants

At the end of August the third autumn edition of PLANTARIUM|GROEN-Direkt will be offering visitors an overview and insight into the market for garden plants, making it THE place to BE for suppliers and everyone else involved in the green sector...


 

At the end of August the third autumn edition of PLANTARIUM|GROEN-Direkt will be offering visitors an overview and insight into the market for garden plants, making it THE place to BE for suppliers and everyone else involved in the green sector.

 

On 21-22 August they will find a complete, up-to-date range of outdoor plants, novelties and innovations from the Netherlands and other countries.

 

“Besides the beautiful products of our exhibitors and the range of directly available plants of GROEN-Direkt’s sample fair, the fair has a lot more to offer to its visitors. There will of course be an attractive presentation of the plants submitted for the Green Retail Awards, and also the Wall of Fame featuring award-winning novelties, the Green Future Hub with the latest information on certification, a Bricks example presentation, and on the second day Hortibizz Newsradio will be broadcasting live from the fair,” says fair manager Marjolein Wieckardt. “So all in all plenty to see and experience.”

 

International

Exhibitors from outside the Netherlands now also flock to the fair. So far, around 20% of the registered exhibitors come from abroad, one of their main reasons for participating being the professional visitors.

Baumschule Wil Swinkels from Geldern (D), for example, hope to generate more attention for their relatively new product Euonymus japonicus GREEN WONDER as an ideal alternative for boxwood. “Sales are supported with an attractively illustrated label, posters and container banners. The fair offers us a good opportunity to show visitors this,” says Danny Swinkels.

 

Many people won’t have heard the name of the new exhibitor 'Bruno Nebelung GmbH' before, but one of their brands – Kiepenkerl – probably will ring a bell. Although the names sound German, the company has a strong international reputation. It supplies seeds, bulbs and plants to retailers, growers and landscape gardeners all over Europe. Many of their products are language-independent or available in many languages. Eike Jöddicke, product manager at Bruno Nebelung: "At the fair we present seeds and bulbs, but also what we have to offer in the field of themed benches of vegetable plants. We opt for PLANTRIUM|GROEN-Direkt because we hope to meet buyers of garden centres and retail chains here. The fair’s focus on garden plants and retailers appeals very much to us".

 

Biological Youngplants will be presenting their organically certified stock of native perennials. “We expect a lot of interest from landscape gardeners, garden centres and growers because our products offer an answer to the shortage of certified perennials observable in the context of biodiversity,” says Wim van Marrewijk.

 

Green Retail Awards

With the Green Retail Awards, the fair organisers aim to boost developments in the field of innovation in the range. They are therefore of course delighted to see international retailers and retail experts being more than willing to form part of the jury selecting the Best Market Innovation, one of the categories of the Green Retail Awards. The jury members will evaluate the plants submitted in this category under their chairman Luc de Bruyne of Astima B.V. The Best Market Innovation jury members are:

  • Martin Brijs, Bell Brothers Nurseries Ltd, United Kingdom
  • Johanna Nordenskiöld, Plantagen/Plantasjen, Scandinavia
  • Manuel Rucar, Chlorosphère, France
  • Helmut Follrich, Bellaflora, Austria
  • Harald Van Meurs, All-Green, the Netherlands
  • Niels Feller, Intratuin, the Netherlands
  • Brenda Horstra, Tuinbranche NL, the Netherlands
  • Luc de Bruyne, Astima B.V., Belgium 

The other categories are the Best Novelty (inspected by the KVBC (Royal Boskoop Horticultural Society) jury) and the Visitors’ Favourite (chosen by the visitors). The products submitted for the inspections are presented at the website. The closing date for registering plants for the Green Retail Awards via the website is 11 August.

 

Groups of visitors

PLANTARIUM|GROEN-Direkt’s visitors are always treated to a very warm welcome, with free parking, coffee, tea, soft drinks and sandwiches. Every year the fair is assured of a large range of international visitors, from individual persons to groups representing garden-centre organisations and purchasing combinations such as the Dutch Intratuin chain of garden centres. They organise their meetings, presentations and team assemblies at PLANTARIUM|GROEN-Direkt and enjoy making the most of the possibility of guided tours of the fair, to turn their visit into a valuable, inspiring experience.

 

About PLANTARIUM|GROEN-Direkt

Along with GROEN-Direkt’s Autumn Fair, PLANTARIUM|GROEN-Direkt, the Green Retail Fair, is the ideal place for suppliers and everyone else professionally involved in the green sector to meet one another. The fair also pays lots of attention to novelties and innovations. The next edition will take place on 21 and 22 August 2024. The fair will take place in and around GROEN-Direkt’s hall at the International Trade Centre in the Dutch town of Hazerswoude/Boskoop. Next to the permanent fair building will be a spacious, light, airconditioned marquee surrounded by large patios for indoor and outdoor catering. So whatever the weather, the fair will offer you a perfect, attractive environment in which to meet and talk to people, conduct negotiations and generally have a great time.  For more information and to register your participation or visit, go to the website: plantariumgroendirekt.nl.

 
Wyevale Nurseries returns to retail tree market after 15-year absence

Wyevale Nurseries is unveiling its first collection of trees for retailers at the HTA National Plant Show this week after a 15-year absence from the market...


Wyevale Nurseries is unveiling its first collection of trees for retailers at the HTA National Plant Show this week after a 15-year absence from the market (June 19 & 20, 2024).

 

The Hereford-based leading commercial nursery is launching the range of 10 litre potted trees at the show and will be taking orders for deliveries from August onwards.

 

Wyevale Nurseries’ Garden Centre Sales Manager, Colin Stanley explains: “We have been asked by many of our retail and garden centre customers about growing trees again for them, so after 15 years, we’ve returned to our retail tree roots with our first crop for the retail market this autumn.

 

“Retailers and garden centres are seeing an increase in demand for trees from consumers and this is creating a pull for the product. Gardeners are keen to plant trees in their green spaces, where they can, and they are also keen to include fruit trees, so they can embrace Grow Your Own.

 

“This is a trend our customers say looks set to continue. We’re also seeing garden centres, who currently may not be our clients, coming to us asking for trees, as they are finding it harder to import them from Europe due to increased legislation. Many also want to buy British and there are limited suppliers who can fulfil their needs of British sown and British grown, which we can.

 

“We’re offering an excellent range of 10L trees including ornamental and fruit trees in a trio of collections featuring many of the very best selling and most popular varieties available. We’ve included something for everyone!

 

“At the show we’re launching an Ornamental Collection and a Fruit Tree Collection, as well as a mixed Ornamental & Fruit Tree Collection. These are perfect for our customers who have smaller plant areas, as it allows them to offer these top selling varieties, when it may previously have been difficult for them to do so due to order numbers and space.”

 

Wyevale Nurseries’ Ornamental Collection includes Betula Jacquemontii ‘Snow Queen’, Crataegus ‘Crimson Cloud’, Prunus ‘Snow Goose’ and Sorbus ‘Vilmorinii’. Its Fruit Tree Collection includes the popular Golden Delicious Apple, Morrello Cherry, Victoria Plum and Conference Pear.

 

Colin adds: “We’re going to be displaying some of the varieties from our collections at the National Plant Show and are very happy to chat to anyone interested in finding out more. We can also take pre-orders at our stand for those that want to get ahead for the autumn season too. Come and see us, we’re in Hall 1 at stand 41/50.”

 

Wyevale Nurseries supplies garden centres, landscape contractors, local authorities, foresters and landowners with a comprehensive array of trees, shrubs, hedging, herbaceous and specimen plants.

 

For further details about Wyevale Nurseries, which is based in Hereford, please call 01432 845 200 or visit www.wyevalenurseries.co.uk

 
The best of last week's

If you missed last week's GTN Xtra, below are the most-read stories...


 
Westland Warriors storm to Greenfingers Dragon Boat success

Returning after a 13-year hiatus, the Greenfingers Charity Dragon Boat race returned this weekend (Sunday 23rd June) with a fiercely fought competition and a fun day out for all the family. With five teams battling it out, it was the Westland Warriors that walked away champions having beat off stiff competition from fellow finalists, Evergreen Miracle (G)rowers...


Read more, results and photo gallery

Returning after a 13-year hiatus, the Greenfingers Charity Dragon Boat race returned this weekend (Sunday 23rd June) with a fiercely fought competition and a fun day out for all the family. With five teams battling it out, it was the Westland Warriors that walked away champions having beat off stiff competition from fellow finalists, Evergreen Miracle (G)rowers.

 

Basked in glorious sunshine at Grendon Lakes, Northamptonshire, the Greenfingers Charity Dragon Boat race saw teams from Westland, Evergreen, British Garden Centres, the AMES Companies and GIMA alongside the YPHA, come together to create a truly memorable event. With friends and families cheerleading from the lake’s edge, the teams enjoyed a crash course on how to row (and avoid capsizing!) before hitting the start line to see who would reign supreme.  

 

Racking up quicker and quicker race times, it came down to two industry goliaths to see who would be quicker on the water. A very close call, the Westland Warriors just pipped the Miracle (G)rowers, reaching the finish line in 65.06 seconds, with the Miracle (G)rowers following just 0.39 seconds later.

 

The day concluded with a prize giving session, with the Westland Warriors enjoying a prosecco shower as they celebrated their win. Guests and participants also enjoyed a raffle which included prizes kindly donated by FarPlants, Westland, British Garden Centres, plus Cotton Traders.

 

Linda Petrons, Director of Fundraising and Communications at the Greenfingers Charity, said: “What a superb day yesterday was. The weather was kind but more importantly, everyone came together to have the best time. All day the air was filled with laughter, comradery and friendly competition. It was just brilliant! Of course, the day also helped to raise funds so that we can continue to build even more gardens in 2025 and beyond, and for this we will be forever grateful. We never take it for granted that so many are willing to support our work so from the bottom of our hearts, thank you!

 

“Thank you so everyone that took part, cheered on the rowers, and those that donated to our raffle. Thanks also to the teams at Grendon Lakes and New Wave events who helped make the day a reality. Same time next year!”

 

If you are interested in any future Greenfingers Charity events, including the forthcoming Wing Walk (3rd September) and Charity Fundraising Dinner (28th November) please reach out to the team for more information by emailing linda@greenfingerscharity.org.uk

 

In the meantime, you can also follow all the latest updates from Greenfingers on social media - @Greenfingerscharity on Instagram and LinkedIn, https://www.facebook.com/Greenfingerscharity/ and @GreenfingersCha on Twitter.

 

Photos by Paul Webb

 
Artevasi joins the AMES Companies family of brands

The AMES Companies, home to Apta, Kelkay, La Hacienda, Woodshaw and Easy Fountain, is pleased to confirm that as of 1st August 2024 its family of brands will be expanding even further with the introduction of Artevasi, as the company confirms sole UK distribution of this popular brand of Portuguese pots...


The AMES Companies, home to Apta, Kelkay, La Hacienda, Woodshaw and Easy Fountain, is pleased to confirm that as of 1st August 2024 its family of brands will be expanding even further with the introduction of Artevasi, as the company confirms sole UK distribution of this popular brand of Portuguese pots.

 

This latest development marks a strategic milestone for both parties and will offer multiple benefits for UK stockists of Artevasi’s recycled plastic and traditional terracotta pot collections.

 

Under the new agreement, Artevasi retailers from across the UK will benefit from the customer support network that has become synonymous with the AMES Companies in recent years. UK stock holding will help to significantly reduce lead times to as little as five days – offering greater peace of mind during peak season – whilst a stabilised pricing structure and access to the full roster of sales and merchandising support will help improve efficiencies throughout the sales process and beyond.

 

Under the new distribution partnership Artevasi’s bestselling lines, made up of over 300 SKUs, will benefit from undisrupted accessibility throughout season 24. What’s more, customers will also have the opportunity to combine MOV with Apta orders to maximise the value of the agreement through a single order and delivery, whilst simultaneously offering customers access to a more comprehensive product hierarchy, with the upper end of the category now fully catered for.

 

Paul North, Managing Director of the AMES Companies, said: “We strive to create a truly great one-stop-shop for our retail customers and this new distribution agreement with Artevasi is an important stake in the ground for this mission. A highly respected brand, the agreement will make it easier for retailers to access the same pot collection, safe in the knowledge that availability and access will be greatly improved both now and in the long term.

 

“We thank the Artevasi team for entrusting us with their legacy here in the UK and are excited about what its presence means for the AMES Companies family of brands.”

 

Artevasi’s Commercial Director, Pedro Cunha, added: “Our presence in the UK is key to Artevasi's growth, which is why new relationships such as this are so important. Through this new agreement we can ensure that customer satisfaction and delivery value remain our priority. With the AMES Companies we can better futureproof Artevasi’s UK position, bring value to our customers and generate mutual growth and prosperity.”

 

Talking about the distribution agreement Artevasi’s CEO, Rodolfo Resende, also said: " We are committed to showing British consumers the best that Portugal has to offer and are sure that the beauty and authenticity of our terracotta pots, as well as our recycled plastic offer, combined with the AMES Companies extensive know-how and respect for nature, will make a difference in every home.”

 

The Artevasi offering is already finding its home at the AMES Companies headquarters in Pollington, East Yorkshire where it will join the wider AMES Companies brand portfolio which includes Apta, Kelkay, La Hacienda, Easy Fountain and Woodshaw.  Retailers wanting to find out more about the Artevasi offering are invited to contact Patrick Thick, Sales Director for the Garden Centre channel via patrick.thick@ames.com

 

To stay up to date with all the latest news from AMES Companies please visit www.ames-uk.com

 
Wyevale Nurseries scoops six New Plant Awards at HTA National Plant Show

Wyevale Nurseries won six New Plant Awards at the Horticultural Trades Association National Plant Show at NAEC Stoneleigh Park in Warwickshire...


Wyevale Nurseries’ Production Manager, Kyle Ross with GOLD award-winning Sorbaria ‘Crimson Feather’.

 

Wyevale Nurseries won six New Plant Awards at the Horticultural Trades Association National Plant Show at NAEC Stoneleigh Park in Warwickshire.

 

They include Bronzes for Heucheras ‘Pinky Panky’ and ‘Snowy Panky’, Bronze for Philadelphus ‘Petite Perfume White’ and Silver for Philadelphus ‘Petite Perfume Pink’, Silver for Mahonia ‘Meteor’ and Gold for Sorbaria ‘Crimson Feather’.

 

Andy Johnson, Managing Director at the Hereford-based commercial grower, says: “We’re so delighted with these wins. We put forward seven exciting new plants to be judged at the show and to have come away with six awards in total including a Gold and two Silvers is wonderful!

 

“Our 2024 entries were selected to mirror some of the trends our retail customers are seeing instore. They are all beneficial for wildlife and some of them are ideal for those with smaller green spaces who want something stunning in a pot that’s easy to care for. We also chose entries that can survive some of the changes in weather patterns we’re now experiencing too.

 

“Our knowledgeable, highly skilled and experienced team of professionals, including our Retail Sales Manager, Colin Stanley, our Garden Centre Sales Executive, Lisa Ashford and our Cash and Carry Sales Manager, Adrian Hoare, will be at the show in Hall 1 at stand 41/50 again today (June 20) and can chat about our 2024 award-winners, as well as all the plants we offer.

 

“We’re handing out our new full colour, printed 2025 catalogue as well. It features 14 great new additions for retailers to consider for next year too.”

 

The HTA National Plant Show takes place again today, Thursday, June 20, in Halls 1 & 2 at NAEC Stoneleigh Park in Warwickshire.

 

Andy adds: “The HTA National Plant Show is viewed in the industry as THE place for garden centres and retailers to find their next bestselling new plant – something that will fit the needs of their customers and that inspires them too.

 

“The New Plant Awards showcase the very best introductions from UK plant suppliers so these six awards that we’ve won are fabulous accolades for us!” 

 

Wyevale Nurseries’ six award-winning new plant entries at the 2024 HTA National Plant Show are:

 

Heuchera ‘Pinky Panky’ – BRONZE

Part of a new collection to take the Heuchera world by storm, just look at the foliage!

Splashes of colour across evergreen foliage, perfect in containers, or planted up in a mixed border, with its wildlife attracting properties, what’s not to love!

Rare and unusual, Heuchera Pinky Panky has truly unique foliage, boasting shocking pink splashes on leaves of smoke grey. These herbaceous perennials flower pink from March to June. The dainty flowers proving to be a magnet for bees in the summer.

A perfect potted plant for a patio or planted en masse in a border, or as part of a mixed borders, especially those with partial sun and some shade, this variety will grow to a height of 30cm and spreads to 25cm

Their masses of unique evergreen leaves provide a low maintenance space filler.

The whole collection of Panky Heuchera are absolute standouts in the garden, the unique foliage is unlike most other Heucheras. Gardeners will love the wildlife benefits presented by Pinky Panky, as well as its drought tolerance. It’s suitable for planting in any soil type and is fast-growing.

 

Heuchera ‘Snowy Panky’ – BRONZE

A brand new Heuchera as part of a larger collection and akin to its sibling Pinky Panky, Snowy Panky has beautiful and unique foliage. This variety is sure to be the talk of the garden.

This fast-growing Heuchera variety can be potted into a shaded environment and has no special watering requirements.

The Panky collection of Heuchera are absolute standouts in the garden, the unique foliage is unlike most other Heucheras.

Gardeners will love the wildlife benefits presented by this variety, as well as its drought tolerance. Snowy Panky is suitable for planting in any soil type and their masses of unique evergreen leaves provide a low maintenance space filler. 

The flower spikes attract both bees and butterflies while its dense foliage provides shade and shelter for the plethora of insects that flourish on the damp soil beneath.

These perennials are perfect for planting in pots or in mixed borders, especially those with partial sun and some shade.

Sister to the beautiful Pinky Panky, with splashes of colour across evergreen foliage, this perennial is perfect in containers, or planted up in a mixed border, and is sure to be a star in the garden.

 

Philadelphus ‘Petite Perfume Pink’ – SILVER

Bred by the legendary Alan Postil at Hillier, this is the world’s most pink flowered Philadelphus!

This collection of Philadelphus is proudly grown in partnership with Newey, a collaboration between young and final plant producer that strengthens relationships and opens up new opportunities for the horticulture industry.

Grown for fragrant flowers, this shrub has a lengthy six-week flowering window and produces masses of flowers throughout summer, attracting bees and butterflies.

Being hardy down to -25c and almost indestructible, makes this an extremely robust variety to have in the garden.

A compact, mound forming shrub, the Philadelphus ‘Petite Perfume Pink’ is very versatile. It is perfect for a smaller garden and can also be used in woodland borders or as a screen. It prefers a sunny to partial shade spot and can grow up to 1.5m tall in time, with a spread of 50cm.

When planted in pots or in borders, this variety can create an incredibly scented garden.

Its dwarf size means Petite Perfume Pink is easy to look after and responds well to pruning due to its naturally mound forming habit and it is incredibly drought tolerant, so regular watering is not required.

It is an incredibly manageable shrub, requiring very minimal attention and is the ideal plant for urban or coastal areas due to its high tolerance to air pollution.

When paired with the Philadelphus ‘Petite Perfume White’ consumers can have scented white and pink flowers all summer long.

 

Philadelphus ‘Petite Perfume White’ – BRONZE

Bred by the legendary Alan Postil at Hillier, this Philadelphus Petite Perfume White makes a fantastic addition to any garden. With masses of highly scented white blooms and an overall hardy nature, this shrub combines beauty and versatility for even the smallest of gardens.

This collection of Philadelphus is proudly grown in partnership with Newey, a collaboration between young and final plant producer that strengthens relationships and opens up new opportunities for the horticulture industry.

Grown for its fragrant summer flowers, Petite Perfume White has a long six-week flowering window. Its petite nature and hardiness mean that this shrub is almost indestructible.

These Philadelphus prefer a spot in partial sun, growing to approximately 1.5m tall over time, with a spread of 50cm. Planted in pots or amongst borders in well-drained soil enables these plants to distribute a wonderful fragrance, and suit even the smallest of gardens.

Similarly to its sibling Petite Perfume Pink, this Philadelphus produces masses of flowers throughout summer attracting bees and butterflies, making it a perfect addition to wildlife friendly gardens. 

Its small size and hardy nature mean that Petite Perfume White is easily manageable, and due to its drought resistance, regular watering is not required.

Planting both varieties of this Philadelphus will enable consumers to have both white and pink flowers all summer long.

The hardy nature of this shrub makes it ideal for planting in urban or coastal areas. With high tolerance to air pollution and natural drought resistance, Petite Perfume White can also look fantastic in woodland borders or as a screen.

  

Sorbaria ‘Crimson Feather’ – GOLD

A truly phenomenal addition to the Sorbaria family, Crimson Feather is a beautiful, hardy shrub that boasts bright golden leaves with intense new scarlet-red growth; it is truly a sight to behold. 

Sporting white blooms in July, this shrub looks superb in a pot and will grow approximately 1.5m tall and have a 1.5m spread. Preferring a full sun or partial shade spot, they are a show stopping addition to any garden. 

This fantastic shrub is more condensed than its cousin Sorbaria Sem, meaning it grows very well in a pot.

Sorbaria Crimson Feather is an amazing wildlife plant with its fan like leaves providing essential cover for invertebrates. Perfect for potting, borders or planting as a low hedge, this shrub is both beautiful and versatile. 

Being hardy and low maintenance makes it perfect for a Japanese garden or as a potted specimen.

Best results will see Crimson Feather grown in well-drained soil and little to no pruning is required to keep it looking its best.

Another Seiont/Wyevale Nurseries collaboration.

 

Mahonia ‘Meteor’ – SILVER

Mahonia eurybracteata ‘Meteor’ is an upright, evergreen, compact shrub, which forms a tidy, rounded bush, with dark green leaves.

Meteor flowers for two months and offers year-round interest in the garden.

New growth in spring and summer is a stunning dark red, making way for plenty of delicate spires of yellow, honey-scented flowers borne in late summer and autumn, followed by blue-black berries. 

The new red foliage, unique to this variety, gives a unique selling point for this new shrub and is almost reminiscent of a Nandina. Additionally, the typically hard and sharp leaves of a Mahonia are noticeably softer on this variety.

It’s a highly resistant shrub, which is fully hardy to temperatures as low as -15c. Meteor is also a fast-growing shrub, which has shown to be resistant to temperature fluctuations.

Flowering in late summer with plenty of attraction for wildlife, this shrub can be planted in borders or containers. Reaching a maximum height of 1.2m, and a spread of 2m, it is perfect for a small shady garden.

This shrub is very self-sufficient and can be left to its own devices to grow. It is a good strong grower and has sales potential for both spring and autumn.

Minimal pruning and care are required to keep this shrub looking its best. Suitable for either container growing, or borders, this shrub thrives in good well drained soil.

This plant is a special horticultural collaboration between two of the UK’s most established plant nurseries. It’s been bred by Alan Postill at Hillier with Wyevale Nurseries chosen to grow it for the general garden centre market.

 

For further details about Wyevale Nurseries, which is based in Hereford, call 01432 845 200 or visit www.wyevalenurseries.co.uk

 
New Commercial Director at Bents Garden & Home

Bents Garden & Home has taken a significant step as it plans for the future by promoting Emma Kelly to Commercial Director, a position that has been specifically created to support the management structure at the family owned and run business...


Bents Garden & Home has taken a significant step as it plans for the future by promoting Emma Kelly to Commercial Director, a position that has been specifically created to support the management structure at the family owned and run business.

 

Emma has been with Bents for nearly 10 years, joining in 2014 as Buying Manager, leading the buying and ecommerce functions.  She progressed to Head of Operations in 2018, expanding her leadership role to include retail and logistics and in 2023 taking on responsibility for all dining departments.

 

Her new role will include additional directorship duties and deputising in the absence of Managing Director, Matthew Bent.

 

Says Matthew:  “Having worked with Emma for many years, we are confident that she shares the same work ethics and vision as the family and the Bents business.  Her attention to detail and understanding of what is needed to achieve our goals is invaluable and we are delighted to be able to announce her promotion to Commercial Director.

 

“She has already played an integral role in the development of our business, demonstrating unwavering commitment and passion over the past decade.  We are looking forward to having her input as we look towards the future and plan out the next steps for Bents.”

 

Says Emma:  “It is great to be part of such an ambitious family owned and run business and I have loved taking on new challenges and developing my role over the past decade.  This is another fantastic step and I am relishing the opportunity to get involved and be part of the Bents family business at this level.”

 
Look out for new AMES Companies merchandising vans

Adorned with the many recognisable logos that make up the AMES Companies family of brands, including Kelkay, La Hacienda, Apta and Easy Fountain, the new fleet of AMES merchandising vehicles is set to be a regular sight on the roads of the UK...


 

Adorned with the many recognisable logos that make up the AMES Companies family of brands, including Kelkay, La Hacienda, Apta and Easy Fountain, the new fleet of AMES merchandising vehicles is set to be a regular sight on the roads of the UK.

 

Replacing the previous fleet, this new set of vehicles will offer significant cost and environmental benefits – including a 450-tonne reduction in CO2 emissions over the course of the lease period – whilst also offering practical advantages for the AMES Companies merchandising team, thanks to a larger load area and improved accessibility.

 

Dan Charles, Head of Merchandising said: “At the AMES Companies we are consistently looking at ways to improve our efficiencies, and our fleet of vehicles was one area where we have been able to make quick and easy improvements across the board. With 10 vehicles on the road, which together cover in excess of one million miles a year, it was essential that we had vans that could withstand the needs of being on the road, whilst also ensuring that our environmental impact was being responsibility managed. There is no question that we have achieved this now.

 

“These new vans, already traveling the length and breadth of the country, are set to be just as recognisable as our previous fleet and will continue to bring our dedicated merchandisers to stores across the country to create eye-catching, thought-provoking and unique merchandising design solutions.”

 

Find out more

Further details about the AMES Companies and its family of brands, including Kelkay, La Hacienda, and Apta, can be found at  www.ames-uk.com

 
Spiraea WALBERTON’S® PLUM CARPET wins the Visitor Vote at the HTA National Plant Show

Farplants Sales Ltd - Spiraea WALBERTON’S® PLUM CARPET has been awarded the Visitor Vote, sponsored by Floramedia, at the HTA National Plant Show 2024 at the NAEC, Stoneleigh...


Farplants Sales Ltd - Spiraea WALBERTON’S® PLUM CARPET has been awarded the Visitor Vote, sponsored by Floramedia, at the HTA National Plant Show 2024 at the NAEC, Stoneleigh.

 

An award voted entirely by visitors to the show, Spiraea WALBERTON’S® PLUM CARPET has a compact bushy habit which makes it an ideal shrub for small garden space and container growing. It has outstanding disease resistance and is extremely cold-hardy. Once established, it will give you years of excellent performance with very little maintenance. 

 

Andy Merrick from Farplants said: “We are really, really pleased and quite taken aback. It’s a fantastic product. It’s not the best time of year to show it, so we’re pleased people have voted for it and they’ve been able to take the time to look at the product and think about what it will be like in the spring; it has great purple coverage and partners really well with MAGIC CARPET.  

 

“The visitor vote is the one that means a lot, really pleased. Everyone at Farplants Group will be chuffed; I know it will be communicated with the teams and Walberton, who grow this wonderful variety, and there will be a few drinks whilst watching the football tonight, no doubt!” 

 

 

Alan Down, HTA President, said: “It’s great to see visitors choosing an easy-to-grow plant that will appeal to a range of gardeners, from the first-time gardeners to those who are more experienced.” 

 

 

See the full list of winners here: https://hta.org.uk/national-plant-show/show-features/new-plant-awards 

Open for Business - GTN's Summer Showroom directory

Now that the weather has warmed up and this year’s stocks of products are selling through, forward thinking garden retailers will be starting to plan for 2025. With that in mind, GTN compiled a directory of supplier showrooms that are “Open for Business” this summer so that buyers can plan showroom road trips...


Now that the weather has warmed up and this year’s stocks of products are selling through, forward thinking garden retailers will be starting to plan for 2025. With that in mind, GTN compiled a directory of supplier showrooms that are “Open for Business” this summer so that buyers can plan showroom road trips.

 

4 Seasons Outdoor

Preview The World’s finest Garden Furniture Showroom by watching their video:  https://youtu.be/0H1wcnlyMlE. Their trade only showroom is in Reading. Contact Chris@4so.co.uk

 

Edelman

Come and explore their latest colourful trends and themes in the 7,000m2 showroom, Reeuwijk, Netherlands. Contact david.brett@edelman.eu or ron.allison@edelman.eu 

 

Floralsilk

Floralsilks’ beautiful trade showroom is spread over 6,500 sq ft where you’ll see ranges from equisite florals and foliage to Christmas in all its glory. Contact sales@floralsilk.co.uk

 

G Plants

Discover top-selling brands Bee Friends, BEES Gifts, Speedy Seed and Green Ribbon at the G Plants headquarters in Blackburn. Contact sales@gplants.com

 

H& H Group

Best-selling personalised lines plus much, much more. Appointments for Showroom visits available Monday – Thursday in July. Contact sales@historyheraldry.com

 

Hamac

Just 30 minutes from Belfast, the Hamac showroom has over 3000 products on display with hidden gems to discover. Contact sales@hamactrading.com

 

Handy

Make a date for the Handy Dealer/Retailer Open Day at Moulton Grange Country Estate in Northampton on 5th September. Tickets from: www.handys.co.uk

 

Hartman

See the Hartman 2025 collection including new cushion technology – Cloud Cushion and 100% recycled cushions during June, by appointment only, at the Hartman HQ in Telford. Call 01952 231231

 

Innovators International

Enhance your garden furniture ranges with quality stylish pieces from Innovators International.  By appointment only. Contact sales@innovators-international.co.uk

 

Ivyline

Stoneleigh Park is the location for the Ivyline showroom. Open Monday to Thursday 8am-5pm, Fridays 8am – 3pm and all visitors are treated to a complimentary lunch. Contact sales@ivylinegb.co.uk

 

Kaemingk

Discover the latest Spring Summer 2025 Trends at their UK Showroom, open from July 1st 2024. Hall 3 Stoneleigh Park, Kenilworth and at Aalten, Netherlands. Contact l.aarnink@kaemingk.com

 

LifestyleGarden

A showroom on two levels that is packed with responsibly crafted garden furniture also acts as a hub for retail staff training sessions.  Contact sales@lifestylegarden.co.uk

 

Norfolk Leisure

If you missed the Norfolk Leisure 2025 Season Showcase during May, contact us for a showroom visit at Setchy near Kings Lynn. www.norfolkleisurelifestyle.com

 

Nova Outdoor Living

The NOVA Experience centre is now open. NOVA is allocating half days and full days for bookings. If you wish to book your visit to the Experience Centre, visit www.novaoutdoorliving.co.uk

 

Panacea Products

Trade only visitors are welcomed at the Panacea Swindon showroom to see their high quality and exciting new product development. Contact sales@panaceaproducts.co.uk

 

Pinnacle Agri

Get a full product demo and factory tour of the Glee New Product Award winning Firestorm Heater at New Cross Farm in Herefordshire.  Contact trade@firestormheaters.co.uk

 

Primeur

See the full award winning Primeur range plus the newly launched Mighty Mats doormat collection in Skipton, North Yorkshire.  Contact sales@primeur.ltd.uk

 

Sipcam

Find out more about Sipcam, an international leader in crop protection and development of bio-technologies, at their Derby showroom. Contact www.ecofective.uk.com

 

Smart Garden Peterborough

Visit the Eureka building in Peterborough to see the two floor, 6,000 sq ft Smart showrooms. Smart typically add 400 new products each year, so its well worth a visit. Contact sales@sgpuk.com

 

Trans-Continental

Throughout July Trans-Continental invites customers to an exclusive showroom visit at its headquarters in Blackpool. Strictly by appointment only, contact sales@transcon.co.uk

 

Smart Abingdon

Spend the whole day reviewing the entire Smart collection at their Abingdon HQ. 5,000 sq ft of showroom and meeting rooms await trade only visitors. Contact sales@sgpuk.com

 

STV

A warm welcome awaits you at the STV Showroom where you’ll also meet the people who make the products your customers buy. Contact info@stvuk.com

 

Tom Chambers

The Tom Chambers Lifestyle showroom opens on June 3rd. See their collection of garden furniture for 2025. Contact your Tom Chambers agent for a visit appointment.

 

Westland

Immerse yourselves in all the Westland brands to boost your sales and discover their latest innovations and marketing campaigns.  Contact your Westland sales representative to arrange a showroom visit.

 

Wildlife World

Wildlife World’s showroom promises to inspire and educate visitors on the importance of coexistence with nature. Contact stephen@wildlifeworld.co.uk to book a visit.

 

Woodlodge

Discover the extensive range of Woodlodge pots and accessories plus the W Living range of outdoor furniture in the new 20,000 sq ft showroom. Contact showroom@woodlodge.co.uk

 

See the printed versions of GTN's Summer Showroom Directory below: