Garden centre teams from across the Garden Centre Association’s (GCA) South East region are celebrating today after scooping awards during a presentation evening yesterday at Coolings Nurseries in Kent (Tuesday).

Garden Centre of the Year in the Destination Garden Centre (DGC) category was Ruxley Manor (top picture), the Garden Centre (GC) category award went to Coolings Nurseries (above) and Local Garden Centre (LGC) to Millbrook Garden Company, Staplehurst (below).

GCA CEO, Peter Burks said: “We had a very jolly evening at our first summer awards session of the year. I’d like to thank everyone who came along. It was brilliant to welcome around 110 attendees to the event and to see them making lots of notes to share with their colleagues.

“I’d like to congratulate all our very fantastic winners and say a huge ‘thank you’ to everyone at Coolings Nurseries for being such accommodating hosts and to our Inspector Alyson Haywood for being part of the team who visited the centres and for presenting their inspection findings in such an illuminating way.”

Alyson was one of the team of inspectors who made unannounced visits to member garden centres in the South East area across a 12-week period through spring and early summer.

She said: “It was a pleasure once again to judge the South East region as part of the GCA inspections. We’ve had some great weather for the season and the sun shone while I travelled around the South East, which was an extra bonus after the exceptionally wet weather during the same period last year when I was judging.

“This time, all the centres were looking good in the glorious sunshine. I also saw some great examples of ingenuity and originality and some lovely plant ranges too.”

The main winners for the South East region GCA area awards are as follows for the DGC, GC and LGC categories:

Garden Centre of the Year

DCG – Ruxley Manor Garden Centre

GC – Coolings Nurseries

LGC – Millbrook Garden Company, Staplehurst

The GIMA Award for Best Garden Products Retailer

DGC – Ruxley Manor Garden Centre

GC – Squires Garden Centre, Milford

LGC – Millbrook Garden Company, Staplehurst

The Award for Catering Excellence for Best Garden Centre Restaurant

DGC – Ruxley Manor Garden Centre

GC – Henry Street Garden Centre

LGC – Millbrook Garden Company, Staplehurst

Food Hall/Farm Shop Award

DGC – Ruxley Manor Garden Centre

GC – Garsons Garden Centre, Titchfield

LGC – No centre in this category

Indoor Lifestyle Award for Best Indoor Lifestyle Retailer

DGC – Ruxley Manor Garden Centre

GC – Garsons Garden Centre, Titchfield

LGC – Knights Plant Centre, Betchworth

Ian Boardman Award for Best Indoor Plants Retailer

DGC – Ruxley Manor Garden Centre

GC (three joint winners) – Squires Garden Centre, Milford; Ransoms Garden Centre; Millbrook Garden Company, Gravesend

LGC – Knights Plant Centre, Betchworth

Outdoor Living Award for Best Outdoor Living Retailer

DGC – Ruxley Manor Garden Centre

GC – Garsons Garden Centre, Titchfield

LGC – Millbrook Garden Company, Staplehurst

The Barton Grange Trophy for Commercial Innovation and Creativity

DGC – Ruxley Manor Garden Centre

GC – Haskins Garden Centre, Forest Lodge

LGC – Thompson’s Welling

Plantaria (Ruxley Rose)

DGC – Ruxley Manor Garden Centre

GC – Millbrook Garden Company, Gravesend

LGC – Thompson’s Welling

The Paul Cooling Award for Environment and Sustainability

Haskins Garden Centre, Snowhill

Customer Service Award for Best Customer Service

Coolings Nurseries

The Dick Allen Award for Most Improved Centre

Thompson’s Canterbury

For further information, please visit www.gca.org.uk

Eco Fuego, Kadai, Zest, Broil King, HEX Living and Hartman were announced as the winners of the SOLEX 2025 Awards, which were presented at the NEC this evening.

The honours were announced at the SOLEX Awards Ceremony & F1 Afterparty – a night of celebration and networking after the first day of the show hosted by Sky Sports F1 commentator David "Crofty" Croft.

The winners were:

Best Eco-Friendly Product

Winner: Eco Fuego – El Grande Fire Pit

Judge’s comments: “Great design, great fuel idea, practical.”

Best BBQ

Winner: Kadai – Plancha

Judge’s comments: “Visually stunning and simple design, unique vents for creating heatspots, excellent use of volcanic beads for improving insulation.’

Best Individual Product

Zest Outdoor – Ludlow Corner Pergola

Judge’s comments: “Good design and colour, and practical for today’s market.”

Best Furniture

Zest Outdoor – Terraza Kitchen Island Set

Judge’s comments: “Overall great product.”

Best Small Stand

OMC Barbecues/Broil King

Judge’s comments: “Excellent branding, POS and overall presentation.”

Best Medium Stand

HEX Living

Judge’s comments: “Clean, modern planters and planting make a difference – lovely fragrance. Stand open and not cluttered, room to move about. Clean and modern looking.”

Best Large Stand

Hartman

Judge’s comments: “A fabulous stand with a great variety of garden furniture to suit any age and pocket.”

After the awards "Crofty" kindly auctioned the cardboard F1 drivers to the audience raising over £2,500 for Greenfingers and Perennial charities.

Fantastic looking exhibitor stands attracted high volumes of visitors to the first day of SOLEX at the NEC Birmingham with exhibitors and visitors alike agreeing that Hall 5 was buzzing with activity.

See the gallery of pictures from day one at SOLEX below...

Lows have added to their extensive commercial netting portfolio a comprehensive collection of Unbranded Retail based High Quality, Durable, UV Stabilised, Popular Garden Centre Extruded Nettings all in very attractable eye-catching resale packaging with exceptional trade prices for all new orders placed for delivery now or at a later date. 

Vast range of pre-packed and cut to length products which include various roll and hole sizes of square plant climbing mesh, square and hexagonal multi mesh, pea and bean nettings, pond / debris nettings and diamond multi use garden nettings. Large Stocks held for immediate dispatch. 

Own brand design and bespoke product specifications of hole and roll configurations can be accommodated via our in-house product development team. 

Lows customers have commented that it is very refreshing to have another option to purchase these hot selling products at such amazing wholesale trade prices from a very trusted loyal ISO 9001 registered company. 

For more info on our Extruded Nettings or any of our products please contact our dedicated experienced Sales Team.

Head Office Tel 01382 229251

Email sales@lows.co.uk

Website www.lows.co.uk

Timber garden furniture and outdoor leisure specialist, Zest is unveiling a host of new products on its SOLEX stand (#650), expanding its already award-winning outdoor entertaining range.  

New products include new and improved additions to the original modular concept of the popular Terraza Outdoor Kitchen, enabling consumers to customise their own outdoor cooking areas.  With infinitely flexible options to suit all lifestyles and available space, the Zest Terraza range is being marketed as ‘Your Kitchen; Your Way’. 

Zest is also adding a new corner pergola and a new garden shelter to the overall collection; The Zest Truro Garden Shelter, the Zest Ludlow Corner Pergola, as well as the new Zest Jersey Arbour and Zest Lara Bench in a popular rich brown finish which is also available boxed.  The result appeals to a diverse and younger audience as well as traditional Zest admirers.

Zest’s stunningly successful Terraza Outdoor Kitchen range has been extended with a Terraza Outdoor Kitchen Island and new sets including The New Terraza Kitchen Corner Set ideal for a BBQ Egg and The Compact Set ideal for smaller  spaces, with new brushed stainless-steel countertops, adaptable shelving, and robust construction that ensures durability through all seasons. From sleek single units and generous double units to open storage, serving extensions and elegant bar configurations with matching highchairs, every element is designed to integrate seamlessly into bespoke outdoor layouts.

As Zest’s Head of Commercial Development, Simon Davison explained, “Now, in our 20^thanniversary year, we are delighted to be launching a newly enhanced Terraza Kitchen range as well as coordinated garden shelters and pergolas, suitable for the on trend increase in outdoor entertaining, even in smaller spaces. We also have some great trade show offers on the stand too.”  

There is imagery and point of sale to support stockists.  Zest’s outdoor entertaining products are made from sustainable slow-grown softwood sourced from PEFC certified (PEFC/16-37-1490) forests.  

For further information about Zest’s outdoor leisure products, visit 

www.zestoutdoorliving.co.uk/solex-2025 or email sales@zestoutdoorliving.co.uk

Sipcam Home & Garden are welcoming Andy Harding, Araminta Baylis, and Mike Mills to its growing sales team, bolstering coverage across the south of England.

With their extensive experience and passion for the industry, the new sales agents will be focusing on expanding the reach of Sipcam Home & Garden’s innovative portfolio, including the popular ecofective® brand and the Block Blitz range. 

This development comes just 6 months after the appointment of Alan Jones as Retail Channel Manager, who will be working closely with the new team members within the garden centre sector. With the focus on supporting growth in garden retailers, together they will aim to increase Sipcam Home & Garden stockists in this channel and provide extra support and value for Garden Centre customers. 

Supported by Sipcam Oxon, an international specialist in crop protection, Sipcam Home & Garden have an unrivalled network from which to utilise new technology and expertise. Whilst supported by a large group, there is still the character of a small business offering flexibility to serve customers in bringing unique home and garden solutions to the gardening and pet market. 

Andy, Araminta, and Mike bring a wealth of expertise in garden retail, and their knowledge will support stockists in showcasing the best in sustainable and effective home and garden care solutions. Their appointment reinforces Sipcam Home & Garden’s commitment to providing retailers with top-tier support and driving growth across the sector.

Alan Jones said: “We’re thrilled to welcome Andy, Araminta, and Mike to the team. Their insight and dedication will be invaluable as we continue to strengthen our relationships with retailers and bring innovative, eco-conscious solutions to more gardeners.”

With continuous innovation across Sipcam’s product categories, the sales team will be getting to work immediately, helping to support recent launches in the Sipcam Home & Garden portfolio. This includes working with brands such as Fito, GET OFF, retail partner Block Blitz and flagship brand ecofective®, 2023 & 2024 winner of the GIMA Sword of Excellence, with Organic Superfood Ideal for Peat-Free Compost and Slug Stoppa, respectively.

Speak to the team today (enquiries@sipcamhg.co.uk) to see who your local sales representative is. For more information about Sipcam Home & Garden’s innovative range of garden care products please visit https://www.sipcamhg.co.uk/

Meadow View Stone is seeing exceptional momentum in the garden centre sector, with their standout Glee 2024 product launches rapidly turning into bestsellers. Less than a year on, the response from the trade has been decisive- with strong reorder rates proving that demand isn’t just hype.

Flexi-Fix Edging, the game-changing garden border solution, has taken the market by storm. With a reorder rate of 95% within just 60 days, garden centres are recognising its retail potential. Lightweight and simple to install, Flexi-Fix has become a fast favourite for DIY gardeners and professionals alike.

Eco-consciousness is also showing its staying power. Eco Sparkle, Meadow View’s sustainable decorative aggregate, is more than ticking the green credentials box; it’s ticking tills too, with an impressive 72% reorder rate. As the demand for environmentally responsible landscaping products continues to grow, Eco Sparkle’s appeal is only set to increase.

It is not just function and sustainability that are drawing interest. Aesthetic impact matters more than ever and Persian Pink has carved out its place in the market with a 43% reorder rate. It’s clear there’s a healthy appetite for colour-led garden design.

But Meadow View Stone isn’t just innovating with its product line. The brand is leading the way in garden retail tech too. Its new Augmented Reality (AR) feature is now live on the website, allowing garden centres and consumers to digitally place products in real-world settings, helping drive confidence, engagement and ultimately, sales.

With a forward-thinking approach and a finger firmly on the pulse of consumer trends, Meadow View Stone is giving garden centres the tools and the products to thrive.

Strikes Garden Centres has announced the appointment of three new directors to its board.  All three appointments are internal promotions, reflecting the deep industry expertise and leadership talent within the organisation.

Andy Smith has been appointed Buying Director, bringing more than three decades of experience in horticulture and garden centre retail. Andy began his career in 1989 at Blakedown Nurseries, later studying at Pershore College of Horticulture. Subsequently, Andy opted to transition from the nursery sector to Garden Centres, where he served as a plant manager at St Peters Garden Centre in Worcestershire. After several years, he made the decision to shift to a horticulture sales position, before joining Wyevale Garden Centres as a horticulture buyer, and later moving to Dobbies. Throughout this time, Andy's understanding of the retail sector expanded significantly. Leveraging this expertise, he joined Strikes Garden Centres in 2015 becoming Head of Buying in 2018.

Anthony Hester joins the board as Catering Director, having a long career in the hospitality industry. Anthony has worked for over thirty years in the bar, hotel and restaurant industry and his career has spanned the hospitality sectors, from value brands to casual/ family restaurants and fine dining enterprises. Earlier in his career he worked for Mitchells and Butler and later Whitbread, driving operations and commercial opportunities, developing new concepts and opening new businesses. In recent years Anthony was Food and Beverage Director for Wyevale, following his tenure as Head of Restaurants for Dobbie’s. Anthony joined Klondyke in 2023.

Lewis Gault, grandson of company founders Bob and Dorothy Gault, has also been appointed to the board. Lewis manages Klondyke Farms, which oversees approximately 3,000 acres and a herd of 1,500 cattle, as well as ongoing woodland development initiatives of native broadleaf and productive softwood.

All three new directors expressed enthusiasm for their new roles and a shared commitment to the future of Strikes Garden Centres.

“The achievements of Strikes are attributed to its dedicated employees, where individuals are valued. The Board of Directors possesses a well-defined vision, and we are privileged to become a part of the board to contribute to this future vision,” said David Yardley, CEO, The Klondyke Group.

Home and garden retailer Robert Dyas has announced the winner of their Nominate Your Community Space competition – Day Drive Community Garden in Failsworth, Manchester.

The team of volunteers put forward the space – once an unused garage site – to provide food for those without easy access to healthy food, offer workshops to empower individuals with new skills, and create a calming social hub in an otherwise urban environment. The location of the site, Failsworth West, is part of Oldham, the most deprived borough in Greater Manchester*. Half of wards in Oldham are in the most deprived 20% in England overall, including Failsworth West* – as is Oldham as a whole**.

The retailer’s nationwide competition encouraged people to nominate a green community space in their local area, which had the potential to be transformed for the mental and physical health of their community. It ran from 19th March to 18th May, with the prize on offer £2.5k worth of gardening equipment. This included a summerhouse, greenhouse, raised planters, a variety of garden tools and more.

The competition was part of Robert Dyas’ ongoing Plant & Pause campaign, now in its third year, which encourages the nation to garden their way to better mental health. Like the campaign’s previous two years, Robert Dyas has teamed up with the gardening-for-health charity Thrive.

With over 40 years of experience, using gardening alongside Social and Therapeutic Horticulture (STH) to help improve people’s physical and psychological health, they’re a great fit for the project.

Theo Paphitis, Robert Dyas’ owner and chairman and one of the judges of the competition, said: “While it was a tough decision due to the high calibre of entries, the other judges and I decided that our winner this year had to be Day Drive Community Garden due to their plans for the benefit and prosperity of the local community, and the value our prizes could bring. It was a fantastic entry – congratulations to them!”

Asaf Efraim, lead volunteer at the Day Drive project, said: “We’re absolutely thrilled to have received this recognition – it's a lovely boost for the amazing people who helped transform the space into what it is now. There's a lot more work ahead in our newly established garden, and it's so motivational to know that others recognise our effort and see the value in what we're creating.”

The judges included Robert Dyas chairman, Theo Paphitis; The Sun Gardening Editor and Associate Head of Features, Veronica Lorraine; multi-RHS-award-winning Cloud Gardener and Chelsea Flower Show presenter, Jason Williams; Thrive charity’s Training & Education Officer, Mark Emery; and Robert Dyas’ Marketing Manager, Donna Jackson.

British garden equipment manufacturer Handy has announced a raft of promotional offers across a substantial range of garden machinery ideally suited to Autumn tasks.

Retailers can now take advantage of reduced SSPs across a wide range of popular garden tools - including hedge trimmers, chainsaws, log splitters, leaf blowers, shredders, and more.

As long summer days begin to take their toll on gardens, Autumn becomes a key season for garden maintenance. With homeowners and professionals alike preparing for the tougher winter months ahead, demand for reliable, effective gardening machinery rises sharply.

Stocking the right Autumn tools is essential - not only to meet seasonal customer needs, but to unlock timely sales opportunities.

With Autumn comes one of the season’s biggest garden challenges - clearing fallen leaves. Garden blowers and vacuums are essential tools for tackling this task quickly and efficiently. Handy is offering special Autumn deals across a wide range of models, including Greenworks cordless blowers, The Handy and Q Garden electric units, and powerful Webb petrol models. Many of these also include vacuum and shredding functions, turning debris into compostable mulch -ideal for eco-conscious gardeners.

Autumn is also peak season for pruning, as trees and shrubs are trimmed back to stay healthy through winter. Handy’s comprehensive range of chainsaws, pruners and log splitters makes light work of even the toughest jobs.

And when it comes to disposing of branches and clippings, a garden shredder is the perfect solution. Three shredders feature in Handy’s Autumn offers - including the popular Webb Electric Impact Shredder with Box and Detachable Hopper - providing a practical, tidy way to manage garden waste.

Over 70 garden machinery products have been included in Handy’s new Autumn garden machinery promotion, which is available on orders placed before the end of September 2025.  To secure your promotional copy, please email sales@handys.co.uk call 01793 333212 or visit www.handys.co.uk

June was a great month for fundraising in support of Perennial, with nearly £10,000 raised by footballers and golfers showing off their skills at two inaugural events.

Eight teams took on the ‘Kick for a Cause’ five-a-side football tournament at Fulham FC Training Ground and 60 golfers teed off at Pyrford Lakes Golf Club, all battling all battling to be the winners in aid of the charity which supports everyone in horticulture.

Kick for a Cause

The grounds maintenance teams from Fulham and Reading FCs were joined by teams from supporting event partners Wildwood Machinery and ICL, along with Perennial Partner teams from Kingston Landscape Group, Wood Environmental Services, Neville Stein Horticultural Business Consultancy and Grange Travel Coach Hire, each entering teams of up to 12 players.

There were some close matches throughout the day, with each team giving it their all in the sweltering heat. The action-packed semi-finals saw Mow Money, Mow Problems (Fulham FC Grounds Maintenance Team) take on ICL and Royally Turf’d taking on KLG FC (Kingston Landscape Group).

The eventual winners were KLG FC with just a 1-0 win over host team.

Having shown off their skills on the pitch, the footballers enjoyed pizza and refreshments to celebrate their efforts, whilst continuing to raise further funds for Perennial through raffle ticket sales.

Following the event Stuart Mackley and Stanley Hayden from the Grounds Team at Fulham FC Training Ground said: “This was a great way to raise the profile of Perennial within the club and amongst the players and also raise funds for our industry charity. Whilst it was hot weather to play in, the teams took on the challenge with great enthusiasm and played their best games. We look forward to hosting the event next year.”

Thanks go to grounds care experts Wildwood Machinery and ICL who we welcomed onboard as supporting partners for this event.

Wildwood Machinery – Hampshire’s leading groundcare business – said “We were delighted to support Perennial for this inaugural event. Our team enjoyed the tournament and supporting people in the horticultural and groundcare profession.”

ICL also said “We were pleased to support Perennial and their Kick for a Cause initiative. It's been a fantastic opportunity to promote wellbeing through sport and make a positive impact in the process.”

Charity Golf Day

Just two days after the footbal tournament the Perennial charity golf day, in partnership with Renson, took place at the stunning Pyrford Lakes.

Players were treated to a bacon butty and coffee before teeing off for 18 fabulous holes, followed by a BBQ on the clubhouse patio.

Fittingly the team from principal sponsors Renson UK took 1st prize in the team competition, with Renson’s Tina Mott winning the individual Stableford.

Perennial Partnership Manager, Phil Swainston commented, “I would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone for taking part and supporting the inaugural Perennial Golf Day.  Everyone’s enthusiasm and generosity made the day a fantastic success and resulted in us raising over £3,500!”

Through ticket sales, sponsorship and fundraising on both days, these fun and informal events provided networking opportunities and most importantly, raised vital funds to support Perennial so we can be there when needed.

Chief Executive of Perennial, Jamie Gault commented “At Perennial, our mission is to ‘Build Better Futures’ for horticulturalists and their families. We cannot continue without funding to support our vital work, so fundraising events like these, that help raise the profile of the support we offer, have an essential role to play. Thank you to those who instigated these events and supported Perennial through taking part, sponsorship and promotion. Don’t forget the charity is here for you, whether you need some guidance, feel a bit stuck or are facing one of life's big challenges, we're here for you.”

Visit perennial.org.uk/ways-we-help/ or call our helpline 0800 093 8543

From radiographer to rural innovator, Isabelle Richardson’s journey into the world of product invention wasn’t part of a grand plan. 

It began, like so many good ideas, with a common, everyday problem. Living on a smallholding with her husband Jason, a blacksmith and farrier, Isabelle found herself constantly filling troughs and buckets for their animals. But distractions - be it a runaway goat or a curious child - often meant the hosepipe was left running, resulting in wasted water and sodden yards. That frustration, repeated time and again, eventually sparked the creation of SealStop, a simple but clever solution to a widespread issue.

“I’d walk away and forget about the hose, then return to find the yard underwater,” Isabelle says, reflecting with humour and honesty. “Jason saw the same problem every day at work too. Eventually, we thought, surely there’s a better way. What a naïve thought!”

But that naivety soon gave way to dogged determination. With no previous product development experience, the couple set about transforming their idea into reality. Working with a CAD designer, and leaning on Jason’s wide network of skilled contacts, they began shaping their vision. After five years, three prototypes, and what Isabelle jokingly describes as “expert-level invention trials by fire”, SealStop was ready to launch.

The result? A robust, UK-manufactured hose connector that automatically stops water flow when disconnected - saving time, water, and garden tantrums across the country.

For Isabelle and Jason, both dyslexic and naturally hands-on, the process of inventing wasn’t just practical, it was instinctive. “We just see the world in a problem-solving way,” Isabelle explains. “Life on a farm means you have to adapt and fix things all the time. Jason makes things in metal that’ll probably outlive us all. I tend to fix things with bale twine first!”

From the outset, British manufacturing was non-negotiable. “I care deeply about where and how things are made,” she says. “We work with a manufacturer just 45 minutes down the road, which means I can ensure quality, keep production ethical, and even offer a recycling scheme. It just makes sense.”

The response from both consumers and retailers has been overwhelmingly positive. “People are always amazed it didn’t exist already,” she says. “They love the time-saving aspect, it gives them precious minutes back to spend in the garden, not watching a bucket fill up.” While initially launched into the equestrian sector (with SealStop now stocked in two of the UK’s largest equestrian retailers), the product is quickly gaining ground in the garden retail space too. Isabelle credits this growth to the warm welcome she’s received: “I’ve been blown away by the support and the conversations I’ve had with garden buyers. We’ve just signed a very exciting deal that I can’t wait to share.”

Isabelle firmly believes that everyday inventors play a vital role in modern home and garden life. “We live and breathe our products. Small businesses like ours really know our customers, because we are one. We’re not here to line pockets; we’re here to build communities and offer practical solutions.”

Her plans don’t stop at hose connectors either. With an eye on the growing need for water conservation, Isabelle is already working on expanding into rainwater harvesting solutions. “Fresh water is becoming more precious. I want to develop tools that make it easy for people to collect and use rainwater efficiently.”

When asked what she’s most proud of, Isabelle’s answer is simple: perseverance. “It’s been a steep learning curve - CAD, logistics, legislation, all of it. But I’ve met the most incredible people along the way. Forget imposter syndrome; this is about being genuine and finding your place. I’m proud of what I’ve achieved and how on earth I got here!”

Her advice for fellow would-be inventors? “Just crack on and do it. The help is out there if you ask, and the experience is worth every moment.”

SealStop may have started life as a humble fix for soggy yards and overflowing troughs, but in Isabelle Richardson, the garden retail world has found a passionate, principled, and quietly trailblazing new voice.

To find out more about SealStop, including how you can stock it please visit www.sealstop.co.uk or visit the team at the forthcoming Glee exhibition (16th – 18th September, NEC Birmingham) on stand 9K47.

Award-winning Old Railway Line Garden Centre recently appeared on ITV’s This Morning as part of a live garden transformation with Chartered Horticulturist David Domoney and the Royal Welsh Regiment team.

The segment was part of Domoney’s popular “Front Garden Facelift” series and aired during a special feature introduced by presenters Alison Hammond and Dermot O’Leary.

The uplifting makeover took place at the South Wales home of Heather, a 90-year-old grandmother nominated by her daughter, Sarah. Heather, who has lived in her home for decades, had stopped sitting outside due to mobility issues. Sarah hoped a refreshed outdoor space would offer her mum a peaceful place to enjoy the garden once more.

The garden holds a deeper significance for the family. In 2009, Sarah’s son James was tragically killed while serving in Afghanistan at the age of 21. Heather has kept a red poppy ornament in the garden in memory of her grandson ever since. The new design honoured his legacy with striking metal poppy sculptures—some doubling as bird water stations—and a commemorative bench featuring a bespoke plaque.

Volunteers from Old Railway Line Garden Centre were invited to support the live transformation, providing an array of plants worth over £1,200 as well as expert horticultural knowledge and practical help on the day. The team worked alongside David Domoney and other contributors to create a colourful, accessible front garden Heather could once again enjoy.

“Gardens tell stories. This one reflects Heather’s life and her grandson’s memory. We’ve created a space that’s easier to move around in, filled with plants she can enjoy from her window or on the bench. It’s a small tribute with a big impact,” said David Domoney.

The makeover included a new extended patio with decking for level access, salvia-lined pathways, soft pink hydrangeas, and wall-mounted planters to maximise planting at eye level. The thoughtful planting not only added visual appeal but also supported pollinators and improved the garden’s accessibility.

“These makeovers wouldn’t be possible without the support of our brilliant volunteers and contributors,” added Domoney. “I’m so grateful to Old Railway Line Garden Centre, MM Mac Ltd, Slade Contractors, the Royal Welsh Regiment, and friends of the family for their time and effort… It was an honour to work alongside everyone to create a beautiful garden for Heather, a fitting gesture for someone who has been such a support to her family.”

Liam, Garden Retail Director at Old Railway Line Garden Centre, said: “It’s been a real privilege to be involved. Garden centres do more than sell plants; we help people reconnect with nature. Seeing around 150 plants go into Heather’s garden today shows just how powerful that connection can be.”

The episode is part of Domoney’s campaign to encourage the public to rethink their front gardens as vibrant, accessible spaces for wellbeing, wildlife, and memory. Viewers can catch the full reveal on This Morning’s YouTube channel.

Autumn Fair is calling on independent retailers across the country to make their voices heard as part of its Retail Makeover Mission – a new campaign in partnership with SaveTheHighStreet.org to spotlight the urgent challenges facing Britain’s high streets.

In a sector under unprecedented pressure, this initiative invites independents to complete a short but powerful survey that will help shape a collective response to government and industry decision-makers. The results will form the foundation of a formal petition to government this September, championing the needs of independent retail.

“Independent retailers are the heartbeat of our local communities,” says Autumn Fair Event Director Soraya Gadelrab. “But too often, their struggles go unheard. Through this survey, we want to understand exactly what support you need – and take that message directly to the people in power.”

The survey takes less than 5 minutes to complete, with questions focused on:

• The biggest operational and financial challenges facing your business
• What you need to increase footfall and sales
• The role your shop plays in your community
• Your confidence in government support for independents
• The one policy change you'd ask government to make right now
• Whether you’ve considered closing your store due to pressures

Autumn Fair is inviting all UK-based independent retailers, whether bricks-and-mortar or omnichannel, to take part. Responses will be anonymous, but participants will have the opportunity to be featured in media coverage and campaign activity around Autumn Fair 2025 if they wish to.

“This is your chance to speak up and be counted,” says Gadelrab. “We need real action, not lip service, and that starts with honest feedback from retailers on the ground.”

The Retail Makeover Mission will culminate at Autumn Fair this September at the NEC Birmingham, where survey results will be shared with press, policy advisors, and retail leaders. The campaign aims to drive practical, measurable change for a sector that continues to show creativity, resilience, and community impact, despite mounting pressures.

TAKE THE SURVEY NOW https://www.autumnfair.com/retail-makeover

Autumn Fair

7th - 10th September 2025, NEC Birmingham

A rose masterclass hosted by Bradford garden centre has raised funds for a charity supporting children with life-limiting illnesses.

In celebration of National Rose Month, Andy Rollings from the long-established, family-owned rose breeder David Austin Roses visited Tong Garden Centre to share his advice on planting, pruning, feeding, and caring for roses. The audience enjoyed a cream tea while listening to the talk, then joined in a Q&A session and supported a raffle to win David Austin roses, which raised £200 for Martin House Children's Hospice.

"Whether you're new to rose growing or a rose aficionado, Andy's talk was full of practical hints and tips that will help your roses to thrive, said Yorkshire Garden Centres' Commercial Plant Manager, Marc Salama.
 

"I particularly liked the deadheading and pruning advice to keep your roses in good shape, and the reminder to take time to enjoy the sight and scent of the roses in your garden! It was interesting that his favourite rose is the English Shrub Rose Oliva Austin, as this is one of our bestsellers due to its early blooms, repeat flowering and fruity fragrance. It's a beautiful rose."

Mr Rollings said: "I was honoured and thrilled to be at Tong for the first of what I hope will be many more rose talks with Yorkshire Garden Centres. I was humbled and surprised by the number of guests, all keen and enthusiastic to learn more about David Austin roses. There were some great questions, and we're delighted the roses raised £200 for a superb charity."

Tong Garden Centre occupies a 19-acre site in Tong village. It is one of Yorkshire's biggest independent garden centres with 11,600m2 of retail space and parking for up to 700 cars. It is part of the Yorkshire Garden Centres (YGC) family which also owns Tingley, Otley, Bingley, York, Scarborough and Pennine Garden Centres.

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Worcestershire-based The Bransford Webbs Plant Company has announced a new partnership with OGL Software, a leading provider of enterprise resource planning (ERP) solutions.

Supplying garden centres across the country with a wide range of high-quality ornamental plants, Bransford Webbs has built a strong reputation over more than 60 years. Now, as demand continues to grow, the company has chosen OGL Software’s innovative Profit4 ERP solution to help streamline its processes and support long-term growth.

Richard Colbourne, Joint Managing Director at Bransford Webbs explains: “We explored the market, evaluating both horticultural software and broader ERP solutions. That’s when Profit4 and the team at OGL Software stood out as the ideal solution for us. The synergy between our businesses made them a natural fit, and I was impressed with how quickly OGL understood our needs and the specific requirements of the horticultural wholesale industry.”

OGL Software has been delivering business software solutions for nearly 50 years, helping companies across wholesale and distribution to modernise their operations. Based in the UK, OGL develops and supports its software entirely in-house, ensuring close collaboration with customers and the ability to respond to changing market needs. Its flagship solution, Profit4, is designed to give businesses full visibility across their operations in a single, fully integrated cloud-based platform.

Through this partnership, OGL Software aims to support the broader horticultural industry in addressing its ERP requirements. The company is committed to advancing its modern, cloud-based ERP solution, Profit4, to better meet the needs of businesses within the horticultural sector.

Lyndon Bendall, Head of New Business Development comments: “We’re delighted to welcome Bransford Webbs to the growing community of businesses using Profit4. As the horticultural industry continues to evolve, having a robust system to efficiently manage operations is more important than ever. We look forward to collaborating closely with Bransford Webbs to ensure Profit4 consistently supports their requirements.”

Andrew Davies, Head of Product Engineering at OGL Software adds: "This partnership with Bransford Webbs highlights our commitment to developing a scalable solution that can adapt to specialist sectors like horticulture. Our in-house development team works closely with our customers to ensure the system continues to grow and improve, supporting businesses now and into the future."

With technology playing an increasingly critical role in business success, the partnership between Bransford Webbs and OGL Software represents a forward-looking approach to embracing digital transformation, ensuring Bransford Webbs is well-positioned to continue delivering excellence to its customers for many years to come.

The Horticultural Trades Association has unveiled Michael Perry, aka Mr Plant Geek, as its new ambassador. 

As part of this new partnership, Michael will embark on a “journey of discovery”, recording a series of videos and taking a closer look at what the HTA does for its members in the horticultural sector.

The HTA represents more than 1,300 garden retailers, growers, manufacturers, wholesalers, landscapers, and garden designers. It promotes and supports the horticultural industry to ensure a robust and sustainable future.

Mr Plant Geek begins his journey of discovery by learning about the HTA’s Grower of the Year awards with Pippa Greenwood, the HTA’s Horticulture Manager. On the latest episode of The Plant Based Podcast, they discuss the awards and its six categories:

• Plant Producer Award
• Life Beyond Peat Award
• Inspirational Business Award
• Blooming Marvellous Employer Award
• Young Grower Award
• Staff Member Award 

Michael Perry also chats to Jennifer Pheasey, the HTA’s Director of Public Affairs, about how the political landscape and policies can impact the horticulture industry, and he learns more about consumers’ shopping habits at garden centres with David Denny, the HTA’s Director of Research and Insights.

Fran Barnes, Chief Executive of the HTA, commented: “We are delighted to have Michael Perry, aka Mr Plant Geek, as our new ambassador and look forward to building a strong and lasting relationship with him. Mr Plant Geek is a very popular influencer in the gardening world, whose passion for horticulture shines through in the content he creates for social media. I believe he is the perfect advocate for our members and our industry, which already delivers so much for the country’s economy, wellbeing, and environmental sustainability.”

Michael Perry, Mr Plant Geek and new HTA ambassador, said: “I’m very proud to be working with the HTA as an ambassador, helping to communicate the great work the association does across all parts of the horticultural sector. I will be creating a series of videos about how the HTA supports garden centres, suppliers, and landscapers, so I hope you can join me on my journey of discovery and celebrate this incredible industry.”

BHETA has added two additional members to its export committee as part of a renewed push on overseas trade. This follows on from the appointment of Spear & Jackson’s Export Sales Director, Steve Turner as the committee’s new Chair.

Export Sales Manager of Captivate Brands, Daniel Wright, and Tim Joslin, EMEA Sales Director at Lifetime Brands have added their considerable experience to the BHETA Export Committee, which exists to encourage and enable BHETA members to start exporting or to build their existing export business.

Daniel is a well-known figure in the housewares industry with over twenty-five years’ experience in the sector.  He joined Captivate Brands earlier this year following senior sales roles at Dayes.  Prior to that he worked as Head of International at Lifetime Brands Europe where he was employed for over twenty years.

Tim has substantial experience of working in export markets in his role at Lifetime Brands and previously as Commercial Director at FKA Brands. He has worked in the small electricals and housewares industry for over twenty years with previous sales roles at Jackel International, Amefa, Le Creuset, Richardson Sheffield and Fiskars. Tim has managed, developed, and motivated teams across multiple markets including the UK, Germany, France, Spain, Italy, Nordics, Eastern Europe, Middle East and Africa. 

Commenting on the latest additions to the committee, Will Jones, BHETA’s Chief Operating Officer, said: “Both Tim and Daniel bring fabulous experience to help push the export committee forward.

“I strongly believe that BHETA can help members to develop export sales, from whatever start point.  Export is figuring highly on the agenda for 2025.”

The BHETA Export Committee works with Government departments and the international Chambers of Commerce to explore opportunities for overseas missions, international shows, and grant availability in support of such opportunities.  It also has a raft of business service providers who can help with the practicalities of selling product to overseas markets.

For more information about BHETA including the Export Committee, contact the Member Services Team on 0121 237 1130 or visit the BHETA website at www.bheta.co.uk.

PR and social media agency, Honest Communications, has been named Specialist PR Consultancy of the Year at the CIPR Excellence Awards 2025 for its exceptional expertise and experience in the home and garden sector.

Considered to be one of the most prestigious accolades in the industry organised by the Chartered Institute of Public Relations, the awards are designed to recognise excellence, innovation, and outstanding results in PR across the UK.

Judges praised the impressive results and tangible impact Honest Communications delivers for its clients, highlighting how the team had successfully carved out a clear niche in the market, combining genuine passion with deep sector knowledge to deliver standout campaigns.

Founded by managing director Holly Daulby in 2019, the firm quickly established itself as the go-to agency in the home and garden world, with a portfolio that includes leading brands like Hillier Garden Centres, David Austin Roses, Town & Country, Seedball, Wilkinson Sword, WOLF-Garten, elho, and Cobra.

The specialist boutique agency delivers a fully integrated approach to communications, providing PR, social media, influencer marketing, and event support across both B2C and trade audiences.

From securing international media coverage and creating high-performing social content, to developing campaigns with its influencer community, ‘The Honest Network,’ and coordinating press activity at flagship industry events such as the RHS Chelsea Flower Show, Honest Communications is known for its hands-on, results-driven approach.

Commenting on the win, Holly said: “We’re absolutely over the moon! To be recognised by the CIPR as Specialist PR Consultancy of the Year is a huge honour and such a proud moment for us. It’s a real testament to the passion, creativity, and hard work our team puts in every single day.

“We’ve always believed that specialising doesn’t limit you - it empowers you. By focusing on the home and garden sector, we’ve been able to tap into our love for the industry, build lasting relationships, work with brands that inspire us, and create campaigns that truly resonate.

“We’re so honoured to champion an industry that’s full of innovation, heritage, and brilliant people, and we truly love helping our clients tell their stories in creative and meaningful ways.”

For more information visit www.honestcommunications.co.uk

The Serge Hill Project for Gardening, Creativity and Health has laucnhed the first ever Summer Online Auction in aid of its work with schools, community groups and mental health charities.

The auction is now live and your help in spreading the word and sharing the link with potential bidders would be greatly appreciated.

In the 12 months since the project opened over 500 children have visited The Serge Hill Project at Bedmond, Hertfordshire, and they have launched their first Gardening for Health group for people recovering from cancer treatment. All profits raised from the auction will go directly to expanding and developing these programmes to reach more people, especially those who would otherwise not have access to nature.

Three internationally acclaimed artists - Edmund de Waal, Romilly Saumarez Smith and Adam Lowe of Factum Foundation - have generously chosen to donate exquisite artworks to the auction. In addition, Tom and Sue Stuart-Smith are hosting an exclusive Group Tour for 8 around The Barn Garden and The Plant Library. 

The auction site is now open for bids and donations at https://uk.givergy.com/SummerOnlineAuction2025 until 2359H on Wednesday, 16th July 2025.

Adam Dance, the Liberal Democrat MP for Yeovil visited Horticultural Trades Association (HTA) member, Brimsmore Gardens, as part of the HTA’s continued political engagement programme, to help highlight the key issues facing its members to government.

Hosted by Karen Hillard, garden centre manager, Adam Wallis, site manager, and Mike Burks, managing director of The Gardens Group, Adam Dance was given a tour of the Yeovil-based garden centre, which supports British growers and suppliers across all departments.

Showcasing Brimsmore Gardens’ positive contributions to the UK’s environmental horticulture sector, with its ever-growing sustainability initiatives, such as rainwater harvesting, solar panel installations and pot recycling schemes, The Gardens Group team were able to demonstrate the important role that small to medium-sized businesses are playing in helping the UK reach its net zero targets.

Adam Wallis, site manager at Brimsmore Gardens, explains; “It was a pleasure to welcome Adam Dance MP to Brimsmore Gardens and demonstrate the positive impact we have in the local community, by promoting gardening as a force for good when it comes to people and planet. It is important that our policy makers understand the potential benefits of environmental horticulture, not just for the planet, but for the health and wellbeing of the population, so this was a great opportunity to put these issues on our local MPs radar.”

The visit came about following the HTA’s ‘Plants in Parliament’ event earlier this year, which was attended by 100 MPs, including Adam Dance, and highlighted the sector's potential to deliver growth and solutions to pressing challenges.

Picture caption: (L-R) Karen Hillard, garden centre manager, Adam Dance, Liberal Democrat MP for Yeovil, Mike Burks, managing director of The Gardens Group, and Adam Wallis, site manager.

The Greenfingers Charity marked a major milestone with a magnificent celebration at Coombe Abbey Hotel on 26th June, as 300 guests gathered to honour the charity’s 25th Anniversary at its inaugural Floral Ball: an unforgettable evening of celebration, recognition, and FUNdraising.

Hosted by TV personality Chris Clarkson, the evening was filled with heartfelt speeches, star-studded entertainment, and generous fundraising efforts in support of the charity’s mission to create magical gardens for children in hospices across the UK.

Boyd Douglas-Davies and Richard Jackson delivered poignant speeches reflecting on the charity’s incredible journey over the past quarter-century. Boyd paid tribute to Richard for being awarded an MBE in the King’s Birthday Honours for services to hospices, and acknowledged key early supporters of the charity: Caroline Owen, John Little, Neil Gow, Kimberley George, and Seamus Geoghegan.

In a moving moment, Richard Jackson presented Boyd Douglas-Davies with the President’s Award in recognition of his outstanding contribution to Greenfingers, including raising over £1 million through Garden Re-Leaf Day since 2012.

One of the evening's most significant highlights was the announcement of the Silver Anniversary Appeal total. Launched in 2022, the appeal had aimed to raise £2,000,025 by the time of the ball. The final figure exceeded expectations, reaching a remarkable £2,168,025.

Guests were also given an exclusive first look at the brand-new Greenfingers Charity film, “Adding Life to Shortened Lives,” filmed at Chestnut Tree Hospice, thanks to Phil Wright of Wright OBara, the powerful and emotive short film captures the impact of Greenfingers’ gardens on life-limited children and their families. The film serves as a poignant reminder of the charity’s mission and legacy as it enters its next chapter.

Awards were presented to generous supporters of the Ball, including Platinum Partners, Silver Supporters, and Sterling Ambassadors.

Fundraising took centre stage throughout the evening, kicking off with a Champagne Auction, sponsored by Westland and brought to life thanks to the persuasive skills of Bob Marley.  A live auction, led brilliantly by Guy Topping, raised over £40,000; a silent auction, powered by A Star Experience, raised a fantastic £9,500; raffle featuring over 100 prizes further boosted the evening’s success.

Guests were treated to dazzling entertainment, including performances by the London Show Choir during the fizz reception. which was sponsored by Vitax.  Later in the evening, guests danced the night away with a vibrant performance by Fake Tan, the UK’s ultimate party band, before ending the night with a joyful Silent Disco.

The event was made visually stunning thanks to breathtaking floral arrangements by APAC which were later raffled.  Elegant tree ferns dressed the marquee courtesy of HSK.  A spectacular entrance garden was arranged by Tom Cook, using hundreds of stunning plants kindly sponsored by British Garden Centres. A photo-ready Instagram wall, a stunning living wall, was sponsored by Wonderwall and British Garden Centres, became one of the most popular backdrops of the night.

The night was also proudly supported by a host of generous sponsors, including Evergreen Garden Care, Meadow View Stone, MorePeople, National Garden Gift Cards, Blue Diamond, STV, Corby & Fellas, New Leaf Plants, Simon & Caroline Quinton Smith, Hornby George PR, Woodmansterne and Baker & Taylor.  All of whom played a vital role in making the celebration a resounding success.

Reflecting on the evening’s success, Linda Petrons, Director of Fundraising & Communications at Greenfingers Charity, said: “The Floral Ball was far more than just a celebration.  It was a deeply moving tribute to 25 years of kindness, collaboration and tireless commitment. We are incredibly thankful to everyone who has played a part in our journey so far, and the generosity shown on the night was a powerful reminder of the passion and purpose that drives our supporters and the horticultural industry alike.

"With a growing list of hospices waiting for our support, we are excited and determined to build on this momentum — and can’t wait to see what we can achieve together in the next 25 years.”

Greenfingers Chairman Boyd Douglas-Davies added: "The evening was such a great success due to the hardworking team at Greenfingers led by Linda Petrons. For 18 months she has been working on the plans for this event and without her huge input it would not have been anywhere near as successful. Thank you Linda."

The 25th Anniversary Floral Ball was a true celebration of community, dedication, and the magic that Greenfingers Charity brings to life for children and families every day.

See GTN Xtra's photos from the evening below

Family-owned Trevena Cross Garden Centre in Cornwall has been put up for sale with a guide price of £3.5m.

The garden centre, located in Breage near the historic Porthleven Harbour, contains a stylish on-site bistro, large customer car park and well laid out internal retail area, as well as multiple polytunnels housing a wide range of indigenous and exotic plants . 

The garden centre is located on a busy road and occupies a generous plot of around 10 acres providing scope for further growth and expansion.

The sale is being handled by Christie & Co, who list the key attractions as:

• Retirement sale of an established garden centre business in one of the most beautiful parts of the country
• The site benefits from planning permission to build a farm shop to increase turnover and increase trade, especially growing the income from tourists and families
• The last year saw a huge increase in food and beverage income, the recently expanded café offers the opportunity for new owners to continue to grow café income
• The garden centre has a reputation for specialist exotic plants and could expand direct to customer sales
• The site is large and offers considerable scope to add further concessions and thereby grow passive rental income

All enquiries should be directed to Christie & Co. Visit www.christie.com

Colin Dale (second from left) receives his RHS Long Service Award with (L-R) Stuart Andrews, Plant Buyer; Nick Burrows, CEO; and Caroline Notcutt, Vice Chairman, Notcutts. [Credit/Copyright: Chris Kemp]

After a 46-year career in horticulture, Notcutts’ stalwart Colin Dale has announced he will be retiring this autumn. Colin, who is Head of Plants and Gardening at Notcutts, announced his retirement shortly after receiving a special Long Service Award from the Royal Horticultural Society for his dedication to the sector.

Colin is a well-known figure within horticulture, locally and nationally, famed for his vast knowledge and passion for plants and gardening. His career began with a work placement at Notcutts Solihull Garden Centre in the West Midlands while studying horticulture at college, and he has spent much of his career in various roles across Notcutts’ 19 garden centres nationwide.

In 1999 Colin joined the Plant Buying Team at Notcutts’ Support Office in Woodbridge, and he became Head of Plants and Gardening in 2016. Colin has been responsible for sourcing and stocking all plant and gardening products across the garden centre group, and he has also supported with the design and build of Notcutts’ show gardens at RHS Chelsea Flower Show, and the Sandringham Flower Show which won a Large Gold Medal in 2017.

Earlier this year, Colin was presented with an engraved RHS medal and certificate by Caroline Notcutt, Vice Chairman of Notcutts during Notcutts’ annual conference. The RHS Long Service Award recognises individuals with 40 years’ continuous service in the horticultural sector.

Colin said: “I am truly honoured to receive such a special recognition from the RHS, it is the icing on the cake of my 46 year career as I plan for retirement this autumn. I have a lifetime of fond memories working at Notcutts and I have been overwhelmed with the kindness and support of colleagues and customers as I approach my next chapter.

“I have been fascinated by plants, nature and wildlife since I was young, I always wanted to work outdoors. I am fortunate to have enjoyed a career doing something I love, sharing my passion for plants every day and helping others to achieve their garden vision. My love for gardening will continue, and now I’m looking forward to spending more time enjoying my own garden at home.”

Nick Burrows, CEO, Notcutts, said: “We are incredibly grateful to Colin for dedicating so much of his career to Notcutts, and for sharing his energy and passion for plants and gardening with all who met him. It is also a huge honour to see Colin achieve recognition from the RHS. He is an inspiration for our whole team and an example of commitment and ambition, following his journey from work experience to senior leadership.

“Colin has been a fundamental part of Notcutts, he is well loved and highly respected as an industry expert among our suppliers too. While we will all miss his wisdom and character, we wish him all the best for a long and happy retirement.”

Colin Dale will remain in his role until later this year, with plans already underway for his successor.

Chestnut Nursery, Poole’s ‘plant paradise’ for shoppers, is celebrating a phenomenal 150% rise in salessince the site was transformed by a state-of-the-art redevelopment in 2019.

‘The little garden centre with a big heart’, run by the charity Plants and Minds, supports adults experiencing severe and enduring mental health conditions. Over the past six years, the number of people on Chestnut’s horticultural therapy programme who have progressed into paid work has increased by 300%.

Widely acclaimed for its outstanding range of top-quality plants, inspirational displays and expert horticultural advice, Chestnut offers more than 50 voluntary work placements to its service users, known as Team Members. People who suffer with mental illness are supported in a caring, pressure-free, professional work environment.

Chestnut Nursery first took root at the old Poole Council nursery next to Poole Park in 2001. The site benefitted from a major redevelopment in 2019 and record figures released today demonstrate the life-changing impact of this ambitious horticultural project.

Re-opened in June 2019, the transformation, with help from many local companies, saw the creation of an iconic, flagship 200 square metre store clad in gabion cages of Purbeck stone and powered by renewable energy technology – along with more than 740 square metres of retail area and nursery.

Sowing the seeds of success

Andy Verreck, Nursery Manager at Chestnut, said the new facilities had transformed the future of a project that was previously financially unviable.

Andy said: “None of this would have been possible without our supporters, who range from large charitable trusts to individual donors, business and suppliers, as well as the many support services that refer people to us. A huge thank you to our many customers, both trade and retail: their loyalty has ensured the continued success of the nursery.”

However, Andy pointed out that ongoing support remains vital, because Chestnut is facing rising overhead costs, while its sister nursery, Cherry Tree in Bournemouth, needs investment in infrastructure and new facilities.

He added: “The redevelopment has enabled Chestnut to support our Team Members by delivering first-class training in professional horticulture and providing retail experience, while breaking down social isolation and engaging in a meaningful way with the wider community. The incredible achievements announced today are a direct result of our Team Members gaining valuable work experience and confidence at the nursery.

“The benefits of therapeutic horticulture are vast, from meaningful occupation to keeping individuals out of intensive mental health care. We’ve witnessed complete rehabilitation and subsequent progression into paid employment – a fantastic achievement!” Andy explained.

To mark the six-year anniversary of new store opening, the Charity is holding a special thank you event on Monday 7 July. People across multiple sectors have been invited to the closed event where the Charity will showcase its flagship operation.

No judgement, just support

Ahead of the event, Team Members praised the safe haven provided by Chestnut, citing the project’s ability to break isolation, create new social circles, work with plants, provide structure to the day and develop new skills in a friendly, safe environment.

One Team Member said: “If I didn’t have Chestnut I would not be where I am mentally. The nursery gives me routine, structure and an opportunity to gain qualifications for paid work. I would not be alive if I was not here.”

Another said: “At first, Chestnut was the only place I could manage to go to outside my house. The nursery is a restorative, tranquil oasis which soothes nerves, provides comfort and is a place for conversation with lovely people. It has done me so much good.”

A third summed-up: “When I was at home every day, I was lonely, bored and my attitude was negative. Attending Chestnut gave me a reason to get out of bed. I now have a place to go to which supports my mental health and gives structure to my week. If you are having a bad day there’s no judgement, just support. I’ve been given the chance to rebuild my life”. 

Team Members are referred to Chestnut via services including Community Mental Health Teams (CMHT), Steps 2 Wellbeing, Access Wellbeing Hubs and GPs. During 2024, a total of 25 referrals were received, 22 of which were accepted.

GCA Inspector Peter Walker, who will be presenting to members in Midlands, Wales & West on Thursday, July 24 at Pughs Wenvoe, Wales.

The Garden Centre Association has revealed the dates for its summer regional award meetings when members find out who has come top in its 2025 annual inspections.

Members are encouraged to attend with their teams and this year those in the Midlands and West also have the chance to travel by coach and visit centres on route.

Peter Burks, CEO at the GCA, explains: “Another round of our annual inspections is ending and early feedback is already looking very positive. We’re now inviting our members to attend the regional meeting for their area, where they’ll be able to hear the feedback in full and where our inspectors will be highlighting best practice and new ideas, as well as announcing all the category winners.

“New this year is the chance for members from the Midlands and West to travel to their meeting via coach. This is the first region to try this out and if it works well, we will look at rolling it out across all areas in 2026.”

The South region will meet at Coolings in Kent on Tuesday, July 8 with inspector Alyson Haywood.

The North regional meeting will follow on Wednesday, July 16 at Moss & Moor in Yorkshire again with Alyson presenting her findings.

The East meeting will also take place on Thursday, July 17 with inspector Colin Farquahar at British Garden Centres, Northampton.

Members in Midlands, Wales & West will meet on Thursday, July 24 at Pughs Wenvoe, Wales with Peter Walker as the presiding inspector and the option of arriving by coach and touring other centres on the way.

A coach in the Midlands will pick at Planters Garden Centre, Tamworth at 8am, and then at St Peters Garden Centre, before travelling on to Old Railway Garden Centre and Pugh’s Radyr, arriving at Pugh’s Wenvoe at 3pm. During the trip, there will also be a chance to have a look around St Peters, Old Railway and Pugh’s Cardiff. After the award presentations end at 6.30pm, the coach will take attendees back to the centres where they got on.

The coach from the West will pick up at Monkton Elm Garden Centre in Taunton, Somerset at 9am and then Sanders Garden World before travelling on to Pugh’s Radyr and arriving at Pugh’s Wenvoe at 3pm. There will be a chance to look around each of the stop off and pick up centres on the way too. Again, after the award presentations end at 6.30pm, the coach will take attendees back to the centres where they were picked up.

Helen Lloyd, Director at Stratford Garden Centre, who is also GCA Co-Chair for the Midlands, Wales & West, along with Nicola Pugh from Pugh’s, says: “Our Area Meetings are a great chance for garden centres and their teams to hear and see examples of good retail practice from across the area.

“Given the distance from the Midlands and the West, we thought it would be a wonderful opportunity to make a day of it and visit some great garden centres along the way. We have organised two coaches, one from the Midlands and one from the West, and have put together a full day’s itinerary so members and their teams can enjoy, learn and interact with other each. The cost of the coach is £22 per person, invoiced by the GCA.

“Please could you RSVP to me helen@stratfordgardencentre.co.uk confirming numbers attending, any special dietary requests and if you would like to join us for the day on the coach, including your pick up/drop off point, no later than June 30.”

The GCA represents more than 200 garden centres nationwide. Through sharing information and its inspection programme the GCA helps members to achieve high standards in customer service, plant quality and reliability.

Peter adds: “Many GCA members have said that the unique annual inspections and constructive feedback sessions are one of the biggest benefits of membership. It is a fantastic motivational and management tool and really keeps staff on their toes, making sure they are always doing their absolute best.

“Garden centres receive no advance warning about when their inspection will take place and they do not have the option to turn away the inspector. It is all about making sure they are offering a consistently excellent service and improving their customer service standards, which is what all GCA garden centres must do to remain members.

“The results of the inspections form the basis for many GCA awards, including Destination Garden Centre of the Year, Garden Centre of the Year, Area Winners, Highly Commended and Most Improved Garden Centre. The top 10 centres will receive a Garden Centre of Excellence Award and all centres scoring 75% or above receive the Highly Commended certificate.”

For further information, please visit www.gca.org.uk.

The Garden Centre Association is seeking potential sponsors both big and small for its annual conference taking place from January 25-28 next year.

The GCA wants to hear from businesses with horticultural industry relevance that would like to be associated with the event, which takes place at Carden Park Hotel near Chester.

Peter Burks, Chief Executive of the GCA, who is organising this year’s conference with Chairman Elect and Operations Director at Haskins Garden Centres, Ben Harrison, says: “We have lots of opportunities available this year but in essence we are looking for overall sponsors, dinner and reception sponsors, award sponsors and lots of other secondary sponsors.

“We’ve already booked a wide range of key industry relevant expert speakers, as well as two exciting major celebrity speakers, who both have universal appeal and one of which is a national treasure! It’s all very hush, hush at the moment, but they will be revealed in the autumn with huge fanfares, so watch this space. We anticipate we will sell all our delegate spaces very fast once they have been revealed.

“The sponsorship deals we have up for grabs include everything from the pens and bags we giveaway to all delegates to the coffee/tea breaks, which are, as you’d imagine, very popular and, of course, all the awards.

“Sponsors will have access to delegates who are key decision makers from the nation’s leading garden centres, including owners, directors and managers, in a relaxed and friendly environment, over breaks, meals, in the auditorium or during our Associate Event.

“We would love to hear from firms that are interested in sponsoring any of the activities, sessions, giveaways and awards at our conference and would like to discuss the various packages we can offer. Please email me to find out more via peter@gca.org.uk.”

More than 400 delegates are expected to attend the annual GCA Conference across the two days.

Peter adds: “As always, our conference will provide attendees with pertinent information on key aspects of the garden centre industry to assist members in achieving their business goals.”

The GCA represents more than 200 garden centres nationwide.

Sipcam Home & Garden are welcoming Andy Harding, Araminta Baylis, and Mike Mills to its growing sales team, bolstering coverage across the south of England.

With their extensive experience and passion for the industry, the new sales agents will be focusing on expanding the reach of Sipcam Home & Garden’s innovative portfolio, including the popular ecofective® brand and the Block Blitz range. 

This development comes just 6 months after the appointment of Alan Jones as Retail Channel Manager, who will be working closely with the new team members within the garden centre sector. With the focus on supporting growth in garden retailers, together they will aim to increase Sipcam Home & Garden stockists in this channel and provide extra support and value for Garden Centre customers. 

Supported by Sipcam Oxon, an international specialist in crop protection, Sipcam Home & Garden have an unrivalled network from which to utilise new technology and expertise. Whilst supported by a large group, there is still the character of a small business offering flexibility to serve customers in bringing unique home and garden solutions to the gardening and pet market. 

Andy, Araminta, and Mike bring a wealth of expertise in garden retail, and their knowledge will support stockists in showcasing the best in sustainable and effective home and garden care solutions. Their appointment reinforces Sipcam Home & Garden’s commitment to providing retailers with top-tier support and driving growth across the sector.

Alan Jones said: “We’re thrilled to welcome Andy, Araminta, and Mike to the team. Their insight and dedication will be invaluable as we continue to strengthen our relationships with retailers and bring innovative, eco-conscious solutions to more gardeners.”

With continuous innovation across Sipcam’s product categories, the sales team will be getting to work immediately, helping to support recent launches in the Sipcam Home & Garden portfolio. This includes working with brands such as Fito, GET OFF, retail partner Block Blitz and flagship brand ecofective®, 2023 & 2024 winner of the GIMA Sword of Excellence, with Organic Superfood Ideal for Peat-Free Compost and Slug Stoppa, respectively.

Speak to the team today (enquiries@sipcamhg.co.uk) to see who your local sales representative is. For more information about Sipcam Home & Garden’s innovative range of garden care products please visit https://www.sipcamhg.co.uk/

As the hot summer continues Honeyfield’s resident wild bird expert Simon Smethurst, who is head of sales at Honeyfield’s, is sharing tips for your wild bird-loving customers on how the provision of plenty of water sources, as well as food, should attract even more birds to the garden.

Water is vital for survival but is also critical for feather quality. Regular bathing is essential to all species of bird, especially during the breeding season when parent birds are more likely to foul their feathers with chick faeces and general soiling at the nest site.

“Very few bird feeders also supply fresh water said Simon. “This means your customers must ensure they provide water for them. Birds very quickly learn where water sources are within their territories. Some of these sites are found whilst on their normal feeding routines, and some are learned from following the behaviour of other species. Providing several water sources is a great way of attracting even more wild birds into the garden.”

Different bird species have their own preferences when it comes to taking a drink. Some may be blatant and drink from an open bird bath while others are very secretive and prefer to drink under cover.

Simon suggests providing 4-5 open water sources in the garden and offers the following tips for your customers:

·      Bird bath in open view from the house (Pigeons, Jackdaws, Starlings, Sparrows). 

·      Water tray attached to the feeding station (Tits, Finches, Nuthatch). 

·      Ceramic flower pot tray on the roof of a shed (attracts the widest variety overall including the local Sparrowhawk).

·      Plastic flower pot trays under bushes and behind the greenhouse (Blackbird, Thrushes, Robin, Dunnock, Wren).

·      Keeping water stations clean and regularly topped up.

·      Baby sterilising fluids are ideal for cleaning bird drinking stations!

“If birds are unable to locate water in neighbouring gardens where they actually might be feeding, they very quickly learn where to find water elsewhere,” said Simon. “The result is that your customers will have more visiting birds. Water is not only the source of life, it also brings in the birds!”

Honeyfield’s offers an exceptional range of wild bird feeds designed to support wildlife throughout the changing seasons. From high-energy sunflower hearts and nutritious seed mixes to suet treats and mealworms, there’s a feed for every species and dietary requirement. The range is competitively priced for consumers to be able to feed the best, while retailers can benefit from good margin structures and introductory stocking incentives.

To find out more about the Honeyfield’s range visit: https://www.honeyfieldswildbird.co.uk/

Garden lovers in and around the southeast of England have been making the most of this year’s RHS Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival, as from next year RHS shows go ‘on tour’ and it will become a biennial event.

Despite the high temperatures and dry conditions, the gardens in the show ground and displays in the Floral Pavilion illustrated horticultural excellence and skill from growers and designers. 

In 2026 the RHS Chelsea Flower Show sticks to its dates and venue but the RHS will be staging a garden show in the grounds of the Badminton Estate in Gloucestershire from 8-12 July and the Sandringham Estate in Norfolk from 21-26 July. 

For the first time, British Garden Centres exhibited at the show to promote the brand and show that all visitors are likely to have a local BGC nearby.

Charles Stubbs created the display with the team filling impressive pots from Woodlodge with a selection of perennials, annuals and shrubs in a mix of blue, white and pink.

Libby Stubbs says around 70% of the plants for sale and on display have come from BGC nurseries, providing the flexibility to choose plants looking at their best for the show.  

“We’ve always wanted to come to more shows to get our name out there a bit more and raise awareness of the brand,” says Libby. “We have started to do more smaller, local shows and our ambition is to do something big at Chelsea.”

British Garden Centres will have a similar display at the RHS Flower Show Wentworth Woodhouse, South Yorkshire, from 16-20 July. 

Alpine specialist D’Arcy & Everest, Cambridgeshire, which also grows unusual perennials, won a deserved Gold medal for its masterclass in container planting.

For garden centres, bespoke boxes brandishing the name of the retailer offer an eye-catching visual merchandising opportunity.

New begonia ‘Wicked’ is the latest introduction from Dibleys Nurseries, Ruthin, and available now for garden centres to stock. Bred by the grower it not only has striking variegated and shaped leaves, but it also produces delicate flowers of pink and white.

“We are breeding quite a few begonias each year now and this is the first time we have shown ‘Wicked’” says Paul Dibley. “The colours are very vivid, it has a really nice habit, and it is far better at dealing with changes in humidity and temperatures, and it more resilient to mildew than older varieties.”

‘Wicked’ joins the line-up of other varieties named after musicals including ‘Phantom’, ‘Moulin Rouge’ and ‘Blood Brothers’ and were all displayed on the Gold medal winning stand.

New from Felco is a work bag for gardeners to carry hand tools and plants. Robust, with a leather and metal-studded base, it will make an excellent Christmas gift. The bag will be available from September onwards,

The red Felco 480 comes in one size and has an inside pocket and retails around £105. It is joined by a dark green canvas trug bag (Felco 481) with leather side pockets (rrp £70) and a smaller open bag (Felco 482 rrp £50) excellent for home gardeners and professionals alike.

The green bags coordinate with a new gardening apron. 

Harkness Roses boosted its range of literary-themed roses with the introduction at Hampton of ‘Jane Austen’s Emma’ and ‘Jane Austen’s Persuasion’.

The former is a delicate pink hybrid tea with a sweet fragrance. Blooming from June until the autumn, it is a compact grower in the garden and stems make for attractive cut flowers.

‘Jane Austen’s Persuasion’ is a deep pink floribunda, perfect for beds, borders and patio containers. 

Riding the popularity wave for houseplants are Caladiums, with an extraordinary range of leaf colours and pattern. Around 12 different varieties were on display from Jacques Amand Intl, Middlesex. In some locations, Caladium can add to outdoor displays.

The Sir Harold Hillier Gardens chose to create a display with plants able to flourish in different conditions. From aeoniums to hydrangeas, The Sun & Shade Garden provided visitors with ideas of plants to grow in their own gardens.

Impressive metal containers formed the display of Gardeners Delight Nursery and Plant Centre in Devon.

Fragrant Trachelospermum jasminoides was the centre piece of the display from Cook’s Garden Centre, Worcestershire. Glossy and large leaves of Farfugium japonicum var. gigantea, also known as the giant leopard plant, shone in the sunshine on press day.

An impressive range of garden furniture from Bramblecrest included the RHS ranges launched earlier this year and some of its classics. The company’s James O Driscoll says the new Fairford range was being trialled at the show to gage public reaction.  

Wild Beasts: A Colourist’s Garden by Robert Pryor was one of three Creative Cubes at the show designed by students from the West Dean KLC School of Design. This simple concept cleverly frames a small display and on a smaller scale still, would work well in garden centre planterias.

Members of the Association of Professional Landscapers (APL), the Horticultural Trades Association’s specialist group for its landscaper and designer members, impressed judges at this year’s RHS Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival with their immersive gardens and displays.

The Subaru Cocoon show garden – built by APL members, Big Fish Landscapes – was awarded a Gold Medal. It also won Best Show Garden, Best Construction, and the RHS Environmental Innovation Award. Its sustainable ethos presents a modern take on a walled garden, featuring a perforated jali wall, crafted from K-Briq. The pioneering brick is made from recycled building waste with only 5% of the embodied carbon of traditional bricks.

Elsewhere at the show, there are opportunities to look at other award-winning gardens built by APL members, including:

• Three Graces of Galicia Garden, built by Ross Conquest at Conquest Creative Spaces. This Silver Medal-winningdesign features bold structural elements, such as a pavilion and topiary tree, winding paths, shaded nooks, and serene water features.
• Charleston 250, built by Surrey Hills Landscapes, was awarded a Silver Medal. The garden showcases reclaimed brickwork, antique iron railings, and water features alongside intricate landscaping such as the inclusion of crushed shells in mortar joints and reclaimed brick pathways and pillars.
• Illusion 2050, built by Kitti Kovacs Garden Design. A modern courtyard garden designed to inspire reflection and raise awareness about sustainable design. Awarded a Silver Medal.
• Before the Concrete Sets, by Surrounding Counties Landscaping. This Silver Medal-winning design utilises repurposed materials, including locally sourced aggregate and waste timber, and features a bench constructed from reclaimed English oak, supported on steel joists.

Phil Tremayne, General Manager of the APL, said: “We’re delighted that members of the APL have been recognised for their high-quality, sustainable landscaping at this year’s RHS Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival. Huge congratulations to Big Fish Landscapes, who picked up a Gold Medal for their show garden, along with awards for Best Show Garden, Best Construction, and the RHS Environmental Innovation Award.”

In its 30th Anniversary year, the APL also has a stand at the show called ‘What Lies Before, What Lies Beneath’. Designed by Phil Tremayne, built by APL members Bushy Business, and supported by other APL members, it aims to demonstrate the various stages in a garden design and what is involved in a professional build.

The APL stand, ‘What Lies Before, What Lies Beneath,’ features a canopy that contains the design studio, a water feature, and arid plants.

In the Floral Marquee, HTA members also picked up awards, including David Austin Roses and Farmyard Nurseries winning Gold Medals, the Harkness Rose Company winning Silver-Gilt and Potash Garden Centre taking home Silver.

To view the complete list of award winners at RHS Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival, visit https://www.rhs.org.uk/shows-events/rhs-hampton-court-palace-garden-festival/awards

Acclaimed British rose specialist Peter Beales Roses has achieved its third Gold Medal of 2025, awarded at this year’s RHS Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival.

This latest accolade follows earlier Gold Medals at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show and BBC Gardeners’ World Live, marking a landmark year for the business.

The award-winning stand is a beautifully immersive and educational display showcasing how roses can be both stunning and ecologically enriching. Framed by two rose-covered arches, a peaceful arbour, and a welcoming bench, the display encourages visitors to explore how a rose-filled garden can support and attract wildlife throughout the seasons.

The stand features a carefully selected range of pollinator-friendly rose varieties, known for their open, nectar-rich blooms that provide essential forage for bees, butterflies, and hoverflies. In the centre of the stand is ‘Linda Lee’, a new variety for 2025, which was bred by Peter Beales Roses with pollinators in mind.

A  unique feature of the display is the showcase of rose hips in all their variety, highlighting not only their striking visual appeal but also their role as a vital food source for birds and mammals in winter. 

Supporting this wildlife-friendly theme are natural-style bug habitats within the borders, a hedgehog house, and water elements designed specifically to support birds, insects, and other garden creatures.

Ian Limmer, Nursery Manager at Peter Beales Roses, said: “Winning our third gold medal this year — following successes at Chelsea and Gardeners’ World Live — is a fantastic honour. Our wildlife-themed stand reflects a growing interest in sustainable gardening, and we’re proud to show that roses can play a central role in supporting biodiversity.”

The Subaru Cocoon by Mike McMahon and Jewlsy Mathews achieved a triple win with Best Show Garden, Best Construction for a Show Garden and the RHS Environmental Innovation Award, taking home the top three awards at RHS Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival 2025. The garden highlights the importance of temperate rainforests in regulating local climates, reducing flooding, supporting unique biodiversity as well as providing habitats for many threatened species.

Liz Nicholson, Chair of the Judging Panel, said about the garden: “A transportational and convincing space - the integration of water and enclosure delivers a delicate privacy. The judges were struck by the perfectly executed complexity of the innovative brickwork made of 95% recycled construction waste. Planting draws attention to the temperate rainforest ecosystem to create a natural garden, well established, rather than just being planted. Exceptional showmanship under difficult conditions during the build has resulted in an established, calm and sensitive garden that delivers on brief and celebrates nature.”

For Gardens of Curiosity, Daniel March took home Best Garden for A Garden of Two Tales – aiming to inspire wonder and inquisitiveness; a central water feature leading to a secluded area asks visitors to question before judging what they see. The Best Construction for a Garden of Curiosity was awarded to A Woodland Edge by Nicolas Navarro. Chair of the Judging Panel, Mark Gregory, said: “The designer has achieved a transportational feeling of enclosure in an inventive abstraction of a woodland garden in an urban area. An excellent choice in materials and polish, such as the use of metal sculptures, was extremely powerful and a high level of design competence with impactful planting created a beautiful ornamental evocation of woodland planting.”

Receiving the Best City Pocket Planting award, Teucer Wilson: Green the Gap Garden by Laura Strand and Sam Stark-Kemp created a garden where nature can thrive in challenging urban environments. Jo Thompson, Head of the Judging Panel said: “Visitors have an immediate understanding and sense of place captured by the designers. The verticality resembling a cityscape through beautifully selected tall trees and recycled stone carved pillars perfectly reflect the garden's intent. Planting was refined and considered with a sense of real horticultural knowledge and evolution while an atmosphere and sense of theatre was balanced with a cohesive and considered overall design.”