In This Issue
Best April ever - 25% more gardening going on!
Glee Safe & Secure Webinar - Thursday 6th May at 11:00am - register here
spoga+gafa cancelled for 2021
RocketGro introduces a new range of 100% peat free, organic soil improver and chemical free fertilisers
Ergrownomics - The future of raised planters and beds
Decorating with plants drives up sales
Hozelock survey reveals UK is now a nation of healthy hobbyists
Lava-Lite – Naturally The Best
Webbs wins UK Best Workplace™ 2021 award
Tong’s new garden centre plans deferred
Plant sales rocket
Hartley Botanic recognised with Queen's Award
Perrywood get growing for Hampton Court Garden Festival
Notcutts Woodbridge to start Phase 2 of redevelopment
Dobbies No 71 opens in Boston, Lincolnshire
Unprecedented Demand - Record Easter garden centre sales lead to stock shortages - Read GTN's April issue on-line now
Car wash concession to open first Yorkshire site at Tong
#sustainabledobbies supports National Gardening Week
Advice for retailers - how to increase sales of pelargoniums
RHS-endorsed partner The Garden Trellis Co announces additions to range
Creating summer vibes in the city with elho’s loft urban range
Get your own copy of GTN Xtra
Pansies on trial at Hyde Hall
More plant feed, please!
Cultivate your Career
2% up with another week to grow
Slug mayday: RHS predicts perfect storm as number one garden pest and seedlings appear
Vitax support High Ground
Hedgehogs are back on the wildlife care agenda
Wild Wales Seeds launches vegetable garden seed kits
Visit Orchid Inspiration Days by appointment
The best of last week's
Iglu 360 is the perfect outdoor dining experience for garden centres
Swedish success story for Highfield Garden World protégé
Bents receives Covid-secure recognitions as it opens up alfresco dining
Woodlodge win GCA Supplier of the Year Award
Get your own copy of GTN Xtra
Barton Grange Christmas 2020 - Exclusive GTN Xtra Photo Tour
Squires Badshot Lea - Christmas 2020
Perrywood at Christmas 2020 - with correct photo gallery now...
Bestsellers Top 50 charts every week
Buy your subscription to the GTN Bestsellers printed weekly newsletter
All the latest news from the world of pet products
Dog food firm secures multi-million pound investment
Specialist hedgehog food brand adds to range
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Best April ever - 25% more gardening going on!

GTN Bestsellers Epos data has confirmed that April 2021 garden centre trading was an all time record for volume sales.  It's now fair to say there's about a quarter more gardening going on in the UK as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic...


GTN Bestsellers Epos data has confirmed that April 2021 garden centre trading was an all time record for volume sales, even topping the previous high for the month set back in 2011.

 

The GTN All Products Index for April 2021 is 25% ahead of April 2019 and 23% ahead of the average for April trading between 2011 and 2019.  It's now fair to say there's about a quarter more gardening going on in the UK as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

 

 

 

More cold, windy weather caused overall sales to dip slightly last week but they were still 18% ahead of sales in the same week of 2019.

 

See the full GTN Bestsellers analysis and Top 50 Bestsellers charts in the GTN Bestsellers printed newsletter weekly service by subscribing here.

Glee Safe & Secure Webinar - Thursday 6th May at 11:00am - register here

Join the Glee, Autumn Fair and NEC teams as they talk through the steps they are taking to ensure Autumn Fair and Glee are run in a safe and secure way, and also learn a little more about what they have in store for you, and how you can make the most of the shows, which return as in-person events this Autumn...


Join the Glee and Autumn Fair teams as they talk through the steps they are taking to ensure Autumn Fair and Glee are run in a safe and secure way, and also learn a little more about what they have in store for you, and how you can make the most of the shows, which return as in-person events this Autumn.

 

The webinar takes place on Thursday, May 6, 2021 at 11:00AM.


Hosted by Julie Driscoll, UK Regional Director – Hyve Group plc, in conversation with Ian Taylor, Managing Director, NEC and Ian Soloman, Head of Operations - UK, Hyve UK, about all the steps they are taking to ensure Glee is run safely and securely.

 

You will also hear from independent retailers on what would make them feel safe and secure, and what they have done to make their customers shop confidently in their stores.

Duration: 1 hour
Language: English

 

When is the webinar? Thursday, 6 May 2021 at 11:00am

How do I join? Register on the link below for your unique access link which will be emailed to you.

https://www.bigmarker.com/hyve/Hyve_Group_Producing_safe_and_secure_events

 

spoga+gafa cancelled for 2021

spoga+gafa, due to take place on 8-10 August, is not going to be staged this year due to the ongoing insecure COVID-19 situation and the related restrictions. The next trade fair will take place at the Cologne fair grounds from 19 to 21 June 2022...


 

The world's largest garden lifestyle trade fair, spoga+gafa, is not going to be staged this year due to the ongoing insecure COVID-19 situation and the related restrictions. It was due to take place on August 8-10.

 

The next trade fair will take place at the Cologne fair grounds from 19 to 21 June 2022.

Even if a survey that was carried out among international visitors and exhibitors at the end of February indicated that postponing the trade fair to August 2021 was an option, ultimately all parties involved have agreed that it will not be possible to conduct a trade fair that would do justice to the spoga+gafa brand at the beginning of August. The new date in June 2022 fits in perfectly with the ordering phase of all participating industries and correspondingly went down well with the exhibitors.

Together with its partners, spoga+gafa is now looking optimistically ahead and looks forward to being able to offer those framework conditions in June 2022 again, which the top international decision-makers, buyers and industry experts from all over the globe await in Cologne.

spoga+gafa will take place as a hybrid trade fair next year at the Cologne fair grounds as well as in digital space in the form of spoga+gafa @home. Once again in 2022, the trade fair will be the place for innovations, new products and trends - for exhibitors, buyers and decision-makers.

The application forms for spoga+gafa 2022 will be available to the exhibitors online soon.

RocketGro introduces a new range of 100% peat free, organic soil improver and chemical free fertilisers
GTN Xtra Promotion

Launched in March 2021 from their farm in Somerset, RocketGro are excited to be able to introduce their two lead products ‘Magic Mulch’ and ‘Plant Fuel’...


 

Launched in March 2021 from their farm in Somerset, RocketGro are excited to be able to introduce their two lead products ‘Magic Mulch’ and ‘Plant Fuel’.

 

The farm is a specialist AD plant, and the by-product of the anaerobic digestion process is split into a liquid and a fibre (mulch) that are then packaged as RocketGro products. Both Magic Mulch and Plant Fuel are Soil Association Approved.

 

The liquid and mulch have been spread over surrounding farms fields for years as a bio nutrient rich source of NPK and fibre. They are so good at raising yields that no chemical fertilisers are needed on these farms.

 

The crops grown on the farm are then fed back into the AD plant in the form of Maize, Rye, Beet and Grass and so a complete virtuous circle is formed.

 

A 100% eco sustainable product is derived post the production of gas and electricity that is fed into the national grid. The RocketGro product range are 100% Peat Free, Organic and Vegan.

 

A British product, RocketGro believe that the product sells itself, but have added eye catching high spec packaging and design to appeal to a cross generation gardening market.

 

The growing drive for Peat alternatives leaves RocketGro well positioned to take market share as orders come in for the 2022 season.

 

Current production enables the farm to bag 42,000 of the 50 litre bags per week. 

 

The all natural RocketGro ‘Magic Mulch’ is a perfect addition to boost tired compost and poor soil that needs an input of structure and water retaining fibre, particularly good for heavy clay soils. 

 

The chemical free natural ‘Plant Fuel’ is a concentrated liquid plant food for indoor and outdoor plants.

 

10% of profits from the sale of RocketGro products go to the Bumblebee Conservation Trust, a charity close to the hearts of the RocketGro family.

 

RocketGro are looking to expand their list of clients to retail their products and have stock available and ready to ship right now with competitive pricing.

 

Please contact the company for further details:

Website: www.rocketgro.co.uk
Email: hello@rocketgro.co.uk

Tel: 07936 928 981

Ergrownomics - The future of raised planters and beds
GTN Xtra Promotion

 

Ergrownomics was begun by a father-and son team in rural Herefordshire, with one goal in mind: to break the mould, and manufacture a sustainable, high-quality raised planter, in the UK.

 

"We’re on a mission to do things differently, and to offer consumers a real opportunity to reduce their carbon footprint and plastic waste..."


Ergrownomics was begun by a father-and son team in rural Herefordshire, with one goal in mind: to break the mould, and manufacture a sustainable, high-quality raised planter, in the UK.

 

"We’re on a mission to do things differently, and to offer consumers a real opportunity to reduce their carbon footprint and plastic waste, learn about food provenance, and eat nutritious, organically grown fresh-produce - without the air miles or chemical residues.

 

"With Ergrownomics, we’ve set out to modernise vegetable gardening – making it comfortable, simple, clean and efficient – through a mixture of excellent functionality and dedicated guidance. We want everyone to be able to grow their own, and don’t believe that experience or available space should be a barrier!

 

"We’ve spent over seven years on crop-variety research and product-design – meticulously growing together, testing and trialling in our own planters at home – and we’ve revolutionised container-growing in the process."

 

Jamie Bending graduated from Durham University in 2019 and and returned home, wanting to take “Ergrownomics” from a prototype set-up that his father and had developed for their own needs, into a system that could provide repeatable, quality results for everyone. 

 

"With this in mind, I set out to condense the research we’d undertaken together, channelling our own insights of real-world container-growing to offer a planter that could meet the challenges of the modern gardener, and make “no-dig” vegetable gardening as easy as possible!

 

"Our planters have been designed from the ground-up to take small-space gardening beyond a recreation - with sustainability at the heart of our beliefs. We never want to sell the same planter, twice; with that in mind, we offer a class-leading 10-year warranty, made our range fully recyclable at end-of-life, offer containers made from recycled materials, and use compostable packaging wherever possible.

 

"We’ve made our planters to be passed on, not thrown out, and because of their fully modular and portable design – they can expand from a single container fitting a small balcony, to large garden kits filling the interiors of greenhouses – growing as the confidence grows, and letting the growing experience expand, rather than replace!

 

"Our planters provide ‘real-world’ functionality for home-growing in compact spaces, including a drip-irrigation system (and two part filter drainage – to keep everything clean!), patented plant training system (allowing crops to be grown at high densities), and a customisable leg length, to ensure a comfortable working height (as well as preventing back-strain)!

 

"And finally – because we’re serious about building things that last – our planters are manufactured using rotationally moulded (food-safe) MDPE, galvanised steel, brass and aluminium. It’s a no compromise approach, but it means that all our planters have a design-life of 50 years, outdoors!"

 

 

 

 

Why work with us?

• We’re a family run business, designing & manufacturing all our products in the United Kingdom.
• We offer high levels of customisation across our range, allowing your customers to spec without compromise, and still offer quick and direct fulfilment on your behalf.
• Our planters open gardening to a growing market, including Renters, Beginners & Small Garden Owners. Our planters can strengthen the sale of seeds, sundries and accessories to these groups – by making gardening simpler and more accessible.
• We’re a small, on-trend & creative company with strong sustainability values, a compelling brand image, and available exclusively from only high-quality retailers, like yourself! Working with us offers something new and exciting to your customers, and demonstrates your commitment to sourcing creative & quality products from within the UK.
• We’re an enthusiastic team, and are keen to work productively with suppliers to showcase both our Planters and their products in the best possible light. We’re very happy to visit and offer exhibitions and demonstrations on homegrowing.

 

Also available

  • Greenhouse kits (Imperial)
    Polytunnels kits (Metric)
    Irrigation Packs
    Automated Irrigation Systems with timers
    Individual Plant Dripper Packs
    Pipe Extension Kits
    Plant Training
    Sample Plant Training Packs
    Plant Training Packs
    Plant Protection
    Container Cloche
    Copper Protection Bars


Contact
Info@ergrownomics.co.uk
Jamie@ergrownomics.co.uk
www.ergrownomics.co.uk

 

Ergrownomics
Spring Cottage,
Walterstone Common,
Herefordshire,
HR2 0DT
Tel: 07568 521648

 

Decorating with plants drives up sales

Plant sales jumped by almost 50% last week as people continued to brave the cold weather and just wanted to get on with decorating their gardens for the summer ahead...


 

Plant sales jumped by almost 50% last week as people continued to brave the cold weather and just wanted to get on with decorating their gardens for the summer ahead.

 

All Product Sales jumped back up by over a quarter, with core gardening sales and plants all up substantially week on week and against 2019.

 

We are on track for the month to end up by at least 20% as sales in the GTN Bestsellers garden centre Epos data have already exceeded April 2019 levels with a full week of sales still to go. 

 

GTN Bestsellers Top 50 sales volumes compared to the same week in 2019: week 17.

  • Garden Products Top 50 – up 14%
  • Growing Media Top 50 – up 30%
  • Veg 2 Gro Top 50 – up 4%
  • Wild Bird & Wildlife Care Top 50 – static 0%

GTN Bestsellers All Sales volumes compared to the same week in 2019: week 17.

  • All Plants with Barcode index – up 19%
  • All Items with Barcode index – up 17%

See the full GTN Bestsellers Top 50 charts, compiled from garden centre Epos data every week, with a years subscription to the printed newsletter for only £145.00 using this link.

Hozelock survey reveals UK is now a nation of healthy hobbyists
GTN Xtra Promotion

A recent survey by Hozelock found that more than eight in 10 adults have taken up a new hobby during lockdown to boost their mental or physical health, with walking, reading and gardening the most popular pastimes...


A recent survey by Hozelock found that more than eight in 10 adults have taken up a new hobby during lockdown to boost their mental or physical health, with walking, reading and gardening the most popular pastimes.

The study of 2,000 adults found more than a third have taken up a new activity since the start of the pandemic, with 81 per cent choosing a hobby with some form of mindfulness, such as growing fruit and vegetables, to help keep them calm.

Sarah Dixon, Marketing Manager from Hozelock, said: “Most people have had more time on our hands during the past 12 months, so it is only normal that this time was filled by taking up new hobbies. 

 

“Our research found that more than half of adults count gardening as a hobby, with 70 per cent spending more time sprucing up their outdoor space during the lockdown than ever before and individuals now spending almost two hours gardening every week.

“For garden centres this is a great opportunity to appeal to first time gardeners by educating them on the tools they need to keep their gardens in bloom for another year. There is also a role to play in encouraging existing gardeners to extend their hobby into new areas, such as growing vegetables or creating a wildlife garden, to ensure the activity stays exciting.”

Lava-Lite – Naturally The Best
GTN Xtra Promotion

LAVA-LITE – Naturally The Best – Effortlessly nourish and protect your plants with a collection of totally non-toxic, environmentally friendly, sustainable, pH neutral, lightweight and 100% natural products...


LAVA-LITE – Naturally The Best – Effortlessly nourish and protect your plants with a collection of totally non-toxic, environmentally friendly, sustainable, pH neutral, lightweight and 100% natural products.

 

Derived from volcanic deposits, Lava-Lite was formed by nature over 10,000 years ago.

 

 

The collection is made up of 7 different horticultural growing/potting media and pest control products, with each continually offering the same natural benefits: thermal protection, moisture retention and control, soil conditioning and providing a nutrient boost; as well as being completely child, pet and environmentally safe.

 

Lava-Lite is chemically inert, zero-harm and does not kill pests. It acts as a natural barrier and deterrent, providing an opportunity for them to simply move on.

 

Child, pet and aquatic safe, all Lava-Lite products can be used anywhere in the home and garden without worry and any predators eating prey that have come in to contact with Lava-Lite will not be harmed, keeping eco-systems balanced, maintained and sustainable.

 

All the products can be safely dug into soil as part of its ongoing life cycle, increasing aeration within the soil and to the roots because of its naturally formed, tiny air pockets.

 

 

The Lava-Lite collection is available in handy 1 litre and 3 litre resealable and recyclable pouches, ideal for display in any garden centre, whether a small independent or large multi-site group. They are easy to use, provide great results and don’t require careful handling, making them perfect for the novice gardener as well as the specialist grower.

 

As research and development is a constant ongoing process, the collection is ever expanding with new and exciting products to help nourish and protect plants both in the home and in the garden.

 

The whole Lava-Lite collection is available for immediate dispatch from Decco.

 

Come and talk with Lava-Lite at Glee 2021. They are in Hall 19 at Stand 8B.

 

Contacts

 

Website Link: https://lava-lite.co.uk

 

Contact Name: Dominic or Kieron

 

Phone: 0115 933 3193

 

Email: enquiries@lava-lite.co.uk

Webbs wins UK Best Workplace™ 2021 award

Webbs has been recognised as one of the Top 25 Best Workplaces™ in the UK for 2021 as part of the Great Place To Work™ programme...


Webbs has been recognised as one of the Top 25 Best Workplaces™ in the UK for 2021 as part of the Great Place To Work™ programme.

 

Webbs Garden Centres, with over 350 employees, has been recognised as one of the Top 25 Best Workplaces in the UK for 2021. This award is part of the Great Places To Work programme. This is a fantastic achievement for every individual who works at Webbs and testament to how well the team have pulled together and supported each other particularly through the recent challenging period.

 

To achieve recognition for this award, Webbs took part in a detailed and anonymous survey administered by Great Place® to Work in September 2020. A Trust Index survey® was given to Webbs colleagues and the results represent 3/4 of the final score. The remaining quarter of the score comes from the Culture Audit®, a business-driven questionnaire which uncovers and evaluates the organisation's HR and leadership practices, policies and culture.

 

The programme recognises those organisations with a high-trust and highly engaged workforce. Evidence shows that engaged team members ‘go the extra mile’ and go ‘above and beyond’ for customers as well as colleagues. Teams at Webbs feel supported by management and peers and have confidence in the leadership and direction of the senior team. As one Webbs colleague said “Webbs is a great place to work with a unique family feel. There is a focus on wellbeing and fun as well as getting the job done.”

 

Only 51 large organisations achieved the benchmark to be recognised as a Best UK Workplace 2021 with Webbs achieving the number 25 spot in the rankings.

 

“We are delighted to win this award for the second year running, moving into the large category and progressing up the ranks to number 25.  Not only does it recognise all the hard work and dedication from everyone at Webbs, but we are also the only garden centre to be recognised as one of the UK’s Best Workplaces. This is a fantastic achievement for us and our sector. Promoting a healthy workplace culture through trust, pride and camaraderie is at the heart of how we work” said Edward Webb, Chairman and owner of Webbs Garden Centres. 

 

To find out more about Webbs Garden Centres, please click here

 
Tong’s new garden centre plans deferred

A decision on whether to allow Tong Garden Centre to build a new £14m store on a former golf course has been postponed...


 

A decision on whether to allow Tong Garden Centre to build a new £14m store on a former golf course has been postponed.

 

Tong’s owners are seeking planning permission to build the new garden centre and soft play area at the old Acanthus Golf Club off Thorpe Lane in Tingley, a development that would create up to 250 jobs.

 

During a Leeds City Council South and West Plans Panel meeting this week, councillors said they were uneasy about building on the site, which technically sits in the green belt, and expressed concerns that the site appeared to only be accessible by car.

 

Coun Barry Anderson said: “I can see the jobs growth benefit, and with the number of housing allocations close to the locality, people will need access to a garden centre. However, I am concerned that this is in the green belt and it could have a negative effect on climate change.”

 

Coun Robert Finnigan supported the application, saying: “I know this site well. It is an eyesore site. Colleagues would have benefited from seeing how grotty and run down this is. It doesn’t enhance green belt, it detracts significantly from it.”

 

The application was deferred for a decision at later date.

Plant sales rocket
GTN Bestsellers Epos data analysis

Plant sales rocketed last week with the Top 10 most popular plant types outselling the rest of the GTN Top 50 plants by over 100%...


 

Plant sales rocketed last week with the Top 10 most popular plant types outselling the rest of the GTN Top 50 plants by over 100%.

  • Zonal Geranium sales more than doubled week on week to move up to No 2, just behind Tomato plant sales.
  • Begonia sales grew by 139% and moved up 18 places to No 19.
  • Impatiens were the highest placed re-entry at No 24. 

See the full GTN Bestsellers Top 50 charts, compiled from garden centre Epos data every week, with a years subscription to the printed newsletter for only £145.00 using this link.

 
Hartley Botanic recognised with Queen's Award

Heritage glasshouse and greenhouse manufacturer Hartley Botanic has been recognised in this year’s prestigious Queen’s Awards for Enterprise for its work growing sales of its English, handmade structures abroad...


 

Heritage glasshouse and greenhouse manufacturer Hartley Botanic has been recognised in this year’s prestigious Queen’s Awards for Enterprise for its work growing sales of its English, handmade structures abroad.

 

The Lancashire-based, 83-year-old business has received a Queen’s Award for Enterprise in the International Trade category, for Outstanding Short Term Growth, following a 144% increase in its overseas sales over the last three years, and the subsequent transformation of its strongest markets.

 

The US has now overtaken its domestic demand, to become the manufacturer’s dominant market, and the business has subsequently broken into four additional international markets.

 

Hartley Botanic is a historic English business, specialising in luxury, bespoke and handmade aluminium Glasshouses and Greenhouses. Operating from the same factory in Greenfield, Lancashire since 1938, the company has earned an unrivalled reputation for crafting ‘the finest Glasshouses and Greenhouses money can buy.’

 

The business has been selling its Glasshouses and Greenhouses internationally for over 20 years and has enjoyed a strong following for a number of years in the US, Germany and Scandinavia, but in the last three years, its global trade has built significantly. Since 2017, international sales have grown 144 percent, transforming the company’s strongest markets.

 

Its exponential international growth has meant the UK has now been replaced by the US as Hartley Botanic’s dominant market, as American customers fall for both the businesses’ quintessentially English-looking Victorian Glasshouses and its contemporary Modern Horticulture range which has proved particularly popular in the state of California. The next strongest markets for the business are now Germany, Italy, Ireland and Portugal. The company has also broken into completely new international markets, namely Italy, Norway, Slovakia and Estonia. Hartley Botanic wins the Queen’s Award for International Trade for Outstanding Short Term Growth in overseas sales over three years.

 

Martin Toogood, Chairman of Hartley Botanic said; “From our historic factory, tucked away at the base of Lancashire’s dramatic Pennines’ Chew Valley, our Glasshouses are handmade by a local team ready to be shipped across the globe.

 

"We couldn’t be more proud of the fact that our Glasshouses and Greenhouses are now being enjoyed by gardeners worldwide, and are thrilled to receive such a prestigious business accolade.

 

"For many, Glasshouses are intrinsically linked to a romantic, comforting notion of Englishness and our 83 year old business, with its incomparable range and commitment to traditional craftsmanship, is perfectly placed to deliver this.”

 

Founded by brothers Vincent (RHS fellow) and Norman Hartley, the company was (to its knowledge) the first to develop and make entirely aluminium Greenhouse structures, marking a huge improvement on its wood and wrought iron Victorian forerunners.

 

Since then, Hartley Botanic has built a name and reputation amongst the horticultural elite synonymous with excellence, thanks to its incomparable range, its structurally superior Greenhouses which ‘last a lifetime’ and its exceptional service delivery.

 

In February 2017 Hartley Botanic became the only aluminium Glasshouse and Greenhouse manufacturer to be endorsed by the RHS.

 

It is the Greenhouse manufacturer of choice for leading horticulture organisations, institutions and designers in the UK and worldwide with Hartley Botanic commissioned by the RHS, the National Trust, Kew Gardens, Glasgow Botanic Gardens, Massachusetts Horticultural Society, Oxford Botanical Gardens, Le Manoir aux Quat'Saisons, Blenheim Palace, The Lingholm Estate and Hampton Court Palace...to name a few.

Perrywood get growing for Hampton Court Garden Festival

Perrywood Garden Centre is supporting Suffolk based designer and author Lucy Hutchings with her edible allotment garden. It’s an exciting design that will be brought to life at the RHS Hampton Court Garden Festival in July...


Perrywood Garden Centre is supporting Suffolk based designer and author Lucy Hutchings with her edible allotment garden. It’s an exciting design that will be brought to life at the RHS Hampton Court Garden Festival in July.

 

The plants, including chillies, heirloom tomatoes and edible flowers like nasturtium, are being grown and nurtured in the production nursery at Perrywood Tiptree. After the show, the garden will be carefully moved and rebuilt at Perrywood Sudbury, allowing visitors to the garden centre a unique opportunity to view and enjoy Lucy’s inspiring space.

 

Lucy is well known as Instagram gardening sensation She Grows Veg. Her new book ‘Get up and Grow’ has just been published and inspires the allotment garden design. Her aim was to display how a small space can supply a surprising amount of edible produce and be a beautiful place to spend time in.

 

The Plans for Plants illustrations show Lucy’s innovative and unusual means of growing fruit, vegetable and edible flowers. For example, on arches and in glass cupboards! The ‘Get up and Grow’ garden will be in the RHS Community Allotment category, which will celebrate the best of community gardening. It will feature many allotment-style plots full of delicious vegetables, herbs, fruits and flowers.

 

Perrywood Communication Manager Louise Smith says, “Our theme this year is ‘Get Growing’. We want to help all those new lockdown gardeners to keep planting and enjoying their outdoor spaces. We love showing our customers how to create something a little bit different. Bringing the whole garden back to display at Perrywood Sudbury will allow a greater number of people to get up close and reconsider their own gardens and growing spaces.”

 
Notcutts Woodbridge to start Phase 2 of redevelopment

Notcutts Woodbridge Garden Centre has announced that work on Phase two of its major modernisation and improvement programme is set to begin...


 

Notcutts Woodbridge Garden Centre has announced that work on Phase two of its major modernisation and improvement programme is set to begin.

 

Phase two, which will further enhance the destination experience enjoyed by customers, follows the opening of the modern and spacious new restaurant, restored woodland nature walk and a show garden which have opened over the past two years. 

 

The new redevelopment work starts in June and includes two large new canopies which will create a magnificent, covered area for customers to enjoy and plants to thrive, whatever the weather.

 

Access from the road for customers will be via the roundabout and a dedicated and welcoming new entrance for customers is being created close to the car park on the left-hand side of the site. Delivery vehicles will be kept separate, using the existing access point.

 

To enhance the environment of the garden centre, four new statement trees are being planted. These trees are being carefully selected to create seasonal, visual appeal in considered locations.  They will replace a partially diseased twisted willow tree which is nearing its end of life and will be removed to help make way for the redevelopment.  The new trees will also significantly compensate for the lost carbon sequestration of the ageing willow.

 

Caroline Notcutt, Vice-Chairman of Notcutts Garden Centres, said: “I have a strong emotional connection to our Woodbridge Garden Centre as it was the first of the Notcutts Garden Centres to open in 1958.  My Great-Grandfather Roger Crompton Notcutt enjoyed the wellbeing benefits of growing plants and being outdoors on this site when he founded Notcutts almost 125 years ago.

 

“The Garden Centre is already at the green heart of the community where many come to be inspired by the wonderful displays of plants and nature. Our Nature Walk gives local people the opportunity to enjoy the benefits it can bring to health and wellbeing, as well as providing a home for many wildlife species.  This re-development will further enhance the experience enjoyed by many of our visitors.” 

 

Darren Brooks, General Manager at Notcutts Woodbridge, added: “We are delighted to be able to start Phase two of the redevelopment in June and are excited about the next stage of improvements and modernisation. The new canopies and new entrance will really help to create an amazing experience for our customers and will add to the new restaurant, show garden and restored nature walk which can already be enjoyed”.

 

The restaurant, which was unveiled in March 2020, offers a modern dining space and an outdoor terrace for eating alfresco with views across the garden centre. The restaurant is planned to re-open on the 17th May in line with the government’s roadmap.

 

The Notcutts Nature Walk was opened in July 2019 - a historic woodland path which was restored as a new nature walk for the local community. The circular half-kilometre trail has been peppered with bird boxes, bat boxes and insect houses to attract a range of different species to the woodland. Visitors can also see an original Victorian apple store previously used by Notcutts to store fruit in winter.

 

The phase two work will start in June and is expected to be completed by the end of the year.

 

For more information about Notcutts Woodbridge, visit notcutts.co.uk/garden-centres/Woodbridge

Dobbies No 71 opens in Boston, Lincolnshire

Dobbies opened its 71st store, located in Boston Lincolnshire, on Friday 30th April 2021...


See GTN Xtra's exclusive photo tour of the new centre

Dobbies opened its 71st store, located in Boston Lincolnshire, on Friday 30th April 2021.

 

Previously Johnsons Garden Centre, the store has undergone a refurbishment in under two weeks and now offers a full Dobbies garden centre experience for customers, with plants and gardening products; pet department; home and cookshop; books, toys and gifts; as well as seasonal items. Customers are welcomed by the houseplant department as they enter the store.

 

A new look Sainsbury’s foodhall was also unveiled, with a range of high-quality food and grocery products to store. Shoppers at Boston have the opportunity to enjoy a range which includes a variety of ambient, chilled and frozen produce as well as other grocery and household products.

 

The restaurant, which will reopen in line with Government guidelines, has been given a refresh, with the Dobbies’ menu featuring seasonal dishes, customer favourites, dedicated kids’ menu and afternoon tea as well as table service for diners. For opening, a coffee shop menu will be available in an outdoor seating area.

 

Graeme Jenkins, CEO of Dobbies, said: “We had an excellent base to build from with Johnsons Garden Centre – thank you to David Isaac and his team for such a smooth transition.

 

“Our team has worked incredibly hard to enable us open at what is an important season for gardeners – well done to everyone who has contributed to this project. We look forward to welcoming customers to the refreshed Dobbies’ store.”

 

Within the first two hours of opening the team had signed up 2,000 new members to the Dobbies loyalty scheme.

 

Marcus Eyles, Horticultural Director for Dobbies, said: “There has been really great engagement with our #sustainabledobbies campaign so far and we look forward to sharing news of new sustainable products, practices and services that will be available in our Boston store. Our team is committed to helping people across Boston have success with their gardens.”

 

For more information visit www.dobbies.com/sustainability-policy

Unprecedented Demand - Record Easter garden centre sales lead to stock shortages - Read GTN's April issue on-line now

In GTN's April issue of news and information for garden centre professionals:

  • Back to the NEC for Glee!
  • Life – Norfolk Leisure Style
  • 1000 years and growing at Coolings
  • Investment is back on the agenda for garden centres
  • Pictures of a Record Easter from Aylett Nurseries, Burston Garden Centre and Scotsdales
  • Unprecedented demand leads to stock shortages
  • Enhancing our understanding of New Gardeners
  • GIMA Charity Golf Day returns this summer
  • B-bag takes Extreme Lounging to new places
    LOFA Update – Are we over the worst of the shortages?
  • HTA Column – Success Brings Stress

 


Unprecedented Demand - Record Easter garden centre sales lead to stock shortages.  

 

In GTN's April issue of news and information for garden centre professionals:

  • Back to the NEC for Glee!
  • Life – Norfolk Leisure Style
  • 1000 years and growing at Coolings
  • Investment is back on the agenda for garden centres
  • Pictures of a Record Easter from Aylett Nurseries, Burston Garden Centre and Scotsdales
  • Unprecedented demand leads to stock shortages
  • Enhancing our understanding of New Gardeners
  • GIMA Charity Golf Day returns this summer
  • B-bag takes Extreme Lounging to new places
    LOFA Update – Are we over the worst of the shortages?
  • HTA Column – Success Brings Stress

Car wash concession to open first Yorkshire site at Tong

An established family car wash business is the latest concession to open at Tong Garden Centre. Handy Andy Car Wash Limited will open its 17th car wash site, the first in Yorkshire, on May 7...


 

An established family car wash business is the latest concession to open at Tong Garden Centre. Handy Andy Car Wash Limited will open its 17th car wash site, the first in Yorkshire, on May 7.

 

The site will offer a range of car wash and valet services to visitors to the Tong Lane centre.

 

Tong's Commercial Director, Sharon McNair welcomes the addition of a car wash: "A car wash is an ideal opportunity here at the garden centre.
 

"Our customers typically spend leisure time with us browsing in store, visiting Grass Hoppers or dining in our restaurants so this is a useful service to access when here. Handy Andy already successfully operate in many other garden centres and have a great reputation, so we're thrilled to welcome them to Tong."

 

Founder of Handy Andy Car Wash, Terry Fullwood said: "We're excited about the opportunities for Handy Andy at Tong. It's a prime site with excellent footfall and plenty of space. It complements the existing food, play and retail offer at Tong perfectly."

 

Established in 2008 and family owned, Handy Andy wash and valet over half a million cars every year. Services on offer at the Tong Lane site include a full range of hand washing services and mini and full valets.

#sustainabledobbies supports National Gardening Week

Dobbies Garden Centres has demonstrated its support for the Royal Horticultural Society’sNational Gardening Week (26 April – 2 May) with the launch of new sustainable products and the start of its #sustainabledobbies campaign...


 

Dobbies Garden Centres has demonstrated its support for the Royal Horticultural Society’sNational Gardening Week (26 April – 2 May) with the launch of new sustainable products and the start of its #sustainabledobbies campaign. 

 

Dobbies is committed to educating about the importance of soil health and delivering environmentally-friendly practices and products, and sustainable solutions.

 

Dobbies supports the RHS’s aim to enrich lives through plants and make the UK a greener place. This year, the RHS is encouraging everyone to get their ‘dose of Vitamin G’ by taking a few minutes each day to connect with nature. Dobbies will share dedicated National Gardening Week content focused on #sustainabledobbies which will build and develop throughout 2021 both online and instore. 

 

A key part of Dobbies’ sustainability pledge is to reduce the use of peat, plastics and pesticides in its product range. The team are on track with the commitment made in 2020 to be 90% peat free in 2021 and 100% peat free in 2022. The retailer has also worked with nursery suppliers to produce a roadmap for an annual reduction in peat use.

 

Dobbies is launching a number of new sustainable products in store and online. Landing in store this week are biochar products from Carbon Gold – Carbon Gold Biochar Fertiliser and Biochar Soil Improver - with Dobbies being the first leading garden centre to stock these products. 

Carbon Gold’s biochar products are 100% peat and chemical-free, FSC Certified and Soil Association organic approved, and are used by professionals the world over, including conventional and organic crop growers, tree care specialists and even elite sports greenkeepers.  

 

Biochar is so high in carbon that adding it to soil permanently sequesters CO2 from the atmosphere. In fact, biochar acts like natural magic in the garden, with significant and permanent benefits proven to boost the health and vitality of plants. 

 

A garden centre first, in the next month Dobbies will launch compost bag recycling in store, in partnership with Evergreen. This will initially launch in 10 stores, with further roll out planned in 2021. New pot recycling stations will also be installed, building on the success of the pot return scheme, as well as a commitment to increasing recyclable plant pots and single use plastics. 

 

As part of #sustaintabledobbies, there is additional focus on the safer range of pest control products, to reduce the impact on beneficial garden insects and wildlife. The retailer does not stock weedkillers that contain glyphosate or slug killers that contain metaldehyde, and rodenticides have been delisted.

 

Graeme Jenkins, CEO of Dobbies, said: “At Dobbies we pride ourselves on providing the best gardening products, services and advice, and it’s also our responsibility to care for our environment. Sustainable practices have been a core focus for some time and we are pleased to support National Gardening Week with #sustainabledobbies. 

 

“It’s our duty to raise awareness and promote better sustainability practices among our suppliers, team members and customers, and we look forward to sharing news of new products and services over the course of 2021. 

 

“As well as reducing our use of peat, plastics and pesticides and providing our customers with recycling opportunities, we are also proud supporters of Terra Carta from HRH The Prince of Wales’ Sustainable Market Initiative – helping make the UK a greener place.” 

 

Mike Hartshorn, MD of Carbon Gold, said: “After seeing a massive boom in retail sales last year, we’re absolutely thrilled to have our biochar products on shelves at Dobbies’ stores in time for Spring 2021.

 

“Gardeners, home growers and allotmenteers have always wanted their plots of outdoor space to be healthy, vibrant and disease and pest free, but these days making sure they’re also environmentally friendly is rising up everyone’s lists of priorities. Our biochar products, which have always been the professionals’ best kept secret, are the perfect replacement for unsustainable peat-based products because they really work and they’re actually good for the environment. It is the gardening product of the future!”

 

For National Gardening Week, Dobbies has released new podcast episode focused on sustainable gardening. Horticulture Director, Marcus Eyles, joins host Louise Midgely to discuss Dobbies’ sustainable aims and new product launches, as well as practical advice on how gardeners can care for the environment at home. 

 

The podcast is available to listen to now on iTunes and Spotify https://www.dobbies.com/podcasts

 

There are also two new FREE virtual events, which will support the #sustainbledobbies focus: https://www.dobbies.com/events

  • 8 May – Time to Colour Your Garden
  • 15 May – Roses – The UK’s Favourite Flower

Follow and support Dobbies sustainability campaign using the hashtag #sustainabledobbies

 

For Dobbies sustainability policy: https://www.dobbies.com/sustainability-policy

 
Advice for retailers - how to increase sales of pelargoniums

Experts at Pelargoniums for Europe share some top tips on how retailers can increase sales of pelargoniums this season and beyond...


For many retailers pelargoniums are a welcome sight for much of their core customer demographic; customers that are familiar with this summer beauty. But the new generation of gardeners are less familiar with this classic bloom and are often drawn to more contemporary plants.

 

However, with a wealth of key selling points, including ease of care and resilience in a range of weather conditions, retailers are potentially missing out on a significant sales opportunity.

 

Here the experts at Pelargoniums for Europe (PfE) share some top tips on how retailers can increase sales of pelargoniums this season and beyond.

 

What am I buying?

Many consumers like to know what they are buying before committing to a purchase. In the case of pelargoniums this might relate to the ultimate size of the plant, quick information on care and watering, and flowering time.

 

Whilst much of this information will be present on the plant label, retailers can help increase impulse sales by making this basic information even clearer so that the customer’s attention is drawn from across the shop floor.

 

A chalk board, for example, is a simple and cheap way to communicate these key details, whilst providing consumers with the confidence to purchase.

 

PfE suggest retailers focus on information such as:

  • Pelargoniums enjoy a long flowering period – summer until late autumn
  • Pelargoniums are one of the most drought-tolerant summer plants to grace our gardens, with a proven ability to remain unfazed by periods of intense heat, however watering when the soil feels dry is the key to keeping the plant going throughout summer.
  • Perfect for evoking a classic Mediterranean-style ambiance.
  • Pelargoniums flower well when grown in nutrient-rich garden soil, so digging in well-rotted manure or garden compost a few weeks prior to planting will pay dividends.
  • Whilst largely known for being a ‘hassle-free’ plant, pelargoniums are thankful for a fortnightly feed with a balanced liquid fertiliser or use a high potassium fertiliser such as tomato food, which is formulated to encourage even more blooms.
  • Dead-head spent flowers weekly to encourage further growth.
  • Pelargoniums are largely pest-free so no need to worry about tackling bugs.
  • Reduce the risk of grey mould by leaving 20cm between each plant where possible.

Remember also that a retailer is only as good as the service it provides and in the case of pelargoniums aftercare advice is a vital component in enjoying sales success. Ensure that staff within the indoor plant area are well versed in pelargonium aftercare so they can help encourage more sales on the shop floor.

 

All the colours of the rainbow

One of the greatest joys of pelargoniums is the vast array of colours and types available. However, not all consumers are aware of this breadth. By grouping together different colours and types - such as zonal, ivy leaved, regal, scented leaf and angel –retailers are able to easily showcase just how varied pelargoniums are. Create a display that is full of colours and textures and signpost the differences with small signs which highlight key facts to impress consumers and help to increase the average basket spend.

 

Cross merchandise like a pro

Pelargoniums are the perfect companion for pots and planters whether designed for traditional homes, contemporary gardens or urban jungles. Savvy retailers will know that positioning the plants alongside pots and planters will increase sales, but PfE also recommends building on this further. Why not also plant up a range of different planters so that consumers can see how the plants works against different planter styles, colours and garden designs. Co-locate additional products such as compost, gardening gloves and trowels alongside the planter pot, plants and planters to make it even easier for consumers to grab exactly what they need to ‘create the look’.

 

Indoors/outdoors

The trend for blurring the lines between the indoors and outdoors shows no sign of abating, which is great news for pelargoniums! The pelargonium’s suitability for growing indoors means that retailers have twice as many opportunities to sell stock. A simple sign in the bedding plant section communicating that consumers ‘can also find me [pelargoniums] in the houseplant section’ will generate interest and encourage customers to frequent both sections of the store.

 

Optimise key gifting periods

Plants make for perfect gifts so retailers have a superb opportunity to drive up the average customer spend in the lead up to and during key events such as Easter, Mother’s Day, and even ‘gifts for teachers’ at the end of the school year. Signposting the gifting potential of plants such as pelargoniums makes it easy for customers to grab an appropriate gift quickly, but why not also consider adding a wrapping service in-store? This does not need to be complicated but wrapping the plant in decorative cellophane or paper will elevate it significantly. Boost the possibility of repeat sales by adding a business card with your contact details on so the gift recipient will be inspired to visit to see what else is on offer.

 

Utilise the Pelargonium for Europe resource library

PfE has been set up to help increase sales of the much-loved pelargonium. To make it even easier for retailers the organisation has created a rich resource library where retailers can access and download a wealth of sales support tools including point of sale signage and information to support after care and quality messaging. A large image and video library are also available, providing retailers with inspirational material for use on social media and within direct marketing to help drive more customers into store throughout the season.

 

For more information and images of geraniums visit: www.pelargoniumforeurope.com

RHS-endorsed partner The Garden Trellis Co announces additions to range

The Royal Horticultural Society has announced three new additions to the popular Prestige range of RHS-endorsed hand-crafted trellis, fencing and gates from its partnership with The Garden Trellis Co, a designer and manufacturer of bespoke garden joinery...


 

The Royal Horticultural Society has announced three new additions to the popular Prestige range of RHS-endorsed hand-crafted trellis, fencing and gates from its partnership with The Garden Trellis Co, a designer and manufacturer of bespoke garden joinery.

 

The new additions are: the RHS Prestige Solid Wooden Gate, perfect for pedestrian and rear garden entrances and ideal for security; the more decorative RHS Prestige Trellis Top with Solid Bottom Gate, which features a trellis ‘window’ at the top in a variety of styles, along with solid bottom gates; and the RHS Prestige Double-Sided Slatted Gate – stylish, hand-made contemporary double-sided slatted gates with offset slats for privacy with a contemporary look.

 

All three items offer a slanting top, which prevents too much rainwater from sitting on the top of the gate, helping to prolong its life.

 

Ready-made for swift delivery, the three new gates are now available for order by phone or at gardentrellis.co.uk

 

The main market for the range is likely to be enthusiastic gardeners, making the endorsement by Britain’s best-known gardening charity particularly appropriate. However, as an essential part of many gardens, the gates are expected to attract wide interest from garden owners in general.

 

The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) announced its endorsement of the Prestige range of trellis, fencing and gates from The Garden Trellis Co in January 2020. These are the only trellis, fencing and gates that the RHS endorses. 

The RHS endorsement is highlighted on The Garden Trellis Co’s website and promotional material.

 

Along with its garden-focused ranges, the two other reasons for the RHS endorsement of The Garden Trellis Co are that it is a UK- based craft business and that it has a strong emphasis on sustainability.

 

The RHS Prestige joinery products are handmade at the Garden Trellis Co’s workshop in Essex and come in a range of fixed sizes. A cutting service is also available to create the perfect fit. A painting service is offered, for a long-lasting and durable finish. 

 

The Garden Trellis Co is committed to providing a quality service that minimises any potential impact of its work on the environment. All its products use accredited timber and offer a 12-year timber guarantee. Customers can choose from Iroko, Western Red Cedar or painted thermowood. All products minimise packaging. 

 

Garden Trellis Co Director Julian Furness said: “The last year has seen a lot of people in the UK doing up their outdoor spaces so that they could make the most of spending more time at home, or to help increase the desirability of their garden. Our brand-new offering, with the invaluable endorsement of Britain’s best-loved gardening charity, will enable them to further enhance their gardens and patios.”

 

Cathy Snow, Licensing Manager, RHS, says: “These gates are a superb new addition to the Prestige range; there is now an RHS Prestige gate available to match The Garden Trellis Co’s trellis and fencing for any garden scheme. These stylish, sturdy gates will, I am sure, be popular with gardeners and garden lovers all over the UK.”

Creating summer vibes in the city with elho’s loft urban range

The loft urban collection from elho has been designed with urban balconies and roof terraces in mind and the products style and applications reflect this inspiration – resulting in the perfect selection of pots for city dwellers...


 

The loft urban collection from elho has been designed with urban balconies and roof terraces in mind and the products style and applications reflect this inspiration – resulting in the perfect selection of pots for city dwellers.

 

With a robust, matt finish and a range of bright, warm colours the loft urban range allows plant lovers to create a dynamic and personal look to their outdoor areas.

 

Vertical gardening helps to bring nature to even the smallest surroundings. Adding plants to balcony railings creates a tumbling display of colour that can be admired whilst relaxing on the balcony during the first whisper of dusk. The elho loft urban balcony potholder is a small, convenient planter that is sold together with the holder and can be directly attached to the balcony railing.

 

The integrated water reservoir will also save a lot of time and water: when it rains the surplus of water is stored for when plant need it most. The only decision to make is what to plant in it.

 

For those with limited outdoor space, theloft urban round pot is the perfect choice as it adds a flurry of plants and injects bright colours to balconies and terraces without taking up a lot of space. With a range of sizes available, ranging from 19cm to 49cm, city dwellers can transform even the smallest spaces into a sea of flourishing nature, adding depth and texture to external sanctuaries.

 

The pots are also available in 11 vivid colours – including delicate pink, ochre, white, cherry red and vintage blue – providing a huge range to choose from.

 

Windowsills and ledges are the perfect places to add greenery and are great for creating small herb gardens that can garnish alfresco lunches in the sun. Windowsills are also an ideal place to add an array of colourful foliage, injecting a vibrant sea of nature and masking the urban scenery.

 

The loft urban trough is great for narrow spaces such as windowsills and tapered ledges, with its oblong design and robust finish created with smaller spaces in mind. The built-in reservoir also makes sure that plants and herbs are watered when they need to be and, with the addition of a saucer, no nasty stains will be left behind on surfaces. The loft urban trough is available in white, warm grey, anthracite and brique – adding subtle shades of colour to balconies and terraces that suits every style.

 

With elho’s loft urban flower bridge, creating a personal collection of nature is a lot easier, especially for those who don’t have space for planters or larger pots. With its simple design and two different sizes, people can better display their plants, creating a personalised oasis of flourishing flowers and greenery that can be easily admired when relaxing with a coffee on a warm summer morning.

 

The flower bridge can also be easily attached onto the top of balcony railings with clips to fixate the pot, making them easily manoeuvrable as the clips can be unclipped and re-attached once they have been moved. This makes for the perfect design for sun-loving plants, such as festuca glauca and senecio cineraria, as the pots can be moved around so they can savour every bit of the sun, keeping them flourishing and healthy.

 

With a wide choice of colours – white, cherry red, anthracite, vintage blue and brique – doses of bright colours can be introduced to urban outdoor sanctuaries, helping to keep them looking vibrant for many summers to come.

 

As with all elho products, they are 100% recyclable and made with 80% recycled plastic, reflecting their commitment to sustainability and catering to the continuously growing need for ethical buying options.

 

Everyone can enjoy the benefits of surrounding themselves with nature, and with summer approaching, it’s the perfect time to get outside and enjoy its offerings. With elho’s loft urban range, even those just starting out on their gardening journey can create lush outdoor spaces, no matter the size – forming the perfect summer paradise.

 
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Pansies on trial at Hyde Hall

The Sun’s Floral Fantasia Pansy trial at RHS Hyde Hall received some good publicity last week with this picture in the Daily Telegraph...


The Sun’s Floral Fantasia Pansy trial at RHS Hyde Hall received some good publicity last week with this picture in the Daily Telegraph. 

 

The trial includes 277 cultivars growing outside on a hill top in pretty exposed conditions. Peter Seabrook told GTN Xtra: "The public love all the flowers and any one in the grower/retail trade should see the respective garden performance of modern cultivars from 11 international breeders. 

 

"Currently the Panolas are giving excellent garden performance."

 

 

 
More plant feed, please!

Sales of plant feed products dominate the GTN Bestsellers Garden Products chart this week. Will there be enough supply to keep up with demand? Are there other suppliers with stocks that garden centres could sell? 


 

Sales of plant feed products dominate the GTN Bestsellers Garden Products chart this week. Will there be enough supply to keep up with demand? Are there other suppliers with stocks that garden centres could sell? 

 

At this rate centres will be looking for alternatives to keep shelves stocked and customers satisfied.

  • Evergreen Garden Care Levington Tomorite 1L + 30% Free moves back up to No 1.
  • Evergreen Garden Care Miracle Gro Pour 'n Feed 1L moves up 20 places to No 7.
  • Westland Growmore 1.5kg is a re-entry at No 33.

See the full GTN Bestsellers Top 50 charts, compiled from garden centre Epos data every week, with a years subscription to the printed newsletter for only £145.00 using this link.

 
Cultivate your Career

Annual applications for the RHS Master of Horticulture (MHort) Award opened on 30 April. The degree-level programme is designed for professional horticulturists who wish to grow their career alongside work or other commitments...


Annual applications for the RHS Master of Horticulture (MHort) Award opened on 30 April. The degree-level programme is designed for professional horticulturists who wish to grow their career alongside work or other commitments.

 

Studied over three years, the MHort provides an affordable and high-quality study experience, which links candidates to a range of professional networks and provides improved business and managerial skills, both sought after, and highly transferable. In the third year, candidates get to write a dissertation linked directly to their own organisation or area of interest.

 

Mainly studied online, the programme is flexible, allowing candidates to study from the comfort and safety of home, and in their own time. The MHort costs considerably less than degrees, and the RHS have introduced a range of easy payment options, including monthly, to help spread the cost.

 

By the end of the award, successful candidates have an overview of the horticultural industry within a global context. Alongside this, they will have developed improved research, analytical, communication and decision-making skills that will provide a better understanding of horticultural challenges and appropriate management strategies. Holders of the award may use the designation MHort (RHS) after their name.


Applications close on 2 August for October start.

Email: mhort@rhs.org.uk

Website: rhs.org.uk/mhort

Twitter: @RHSEducation

 
2% up with another week to grow

With another week to go before the end of the month, growing media sales for April are already 2% up on 2019 levels in the GTN Bestsellers Growing Media Top 50 charts...


 

With another week to go before the end of the month, growing media sales for April are already 2% up on 2019 levels in the GTN Bestsellers Growing Media Top 50 charts.  

 

With more dry, albeit cold, weather this week we could be reporting on an all time record for growing media sales in April next week.  

  • Westland Multipurpose Compost with John Innes 50 litres moves back up to No 1.
  • Evergreen Garden Care Miracle-Gro All Purpose Compost 40 litres also moves up one place to No 2.
  • Godwins Premium Multi Purpose Compost 50 litres jumps two places to No 4.

See the full GTN Bestsellers Top 50 charts, compiled from garden centre Epos data every week, with a years subscription to the printed newsletter for only £145.00 using this link.

Slug mayday: RHS predicts perfect storm as number one garden pest and seedlings appear

The Royal Horticultural Society  is warning of a perfect storm this weekend as warmer weather and scattered showers sees slugs and snails re-emerge in gardens just as vulnerable new plants are unfurling...


The Royal Horticultural Society  is warning of a perfect storm this weekend as warmer weather and scattered showers sees slugs and snails re-emerge in gardens just as vulnerable new plants are unfurling.

 

Late frosts in spring had largely kept gastropods at bay, but recent changes in the weather has meant their return now overlaps with the raising of delicate seedlings and fresh shoots on herbaceous and perennial plants much-loved by slugs, such as hostas, sweet peas and beans. 

 

Amid National Gardening Week (Monday 26th April – Sunday 2nd May) gardeners are being reminded to be alert and provide adequate protection to those plants most at risk while also taking the opportunity to learn more about the role of slugs and snails in our gardens.

 

Hayley Jones, entomologist at the RHS, said: “Slugs and snails frequently top our pest complaints list but play a valuable role in the healthy functioning of our gardens. Of the more than 40 known species of slug in the UK only a minority – around nine species - are major plant nibblers. The majority are busy at work decomposing waste material. Taking the time this spring to better understand the part they have to play on your plot could result in an even greener and healthier garden.”

 

To help plants weather slugs and snails it is recommended that gardeners grow them in such a way that they can tolerate some damage, reduce gastropod prevalence by hoeing and weeding and use nematode controls – natural parasitic enemies of slugs - if the problem persists.

 

Top tips include:

  • Raising young plants in 7-9cm pots that can withstand some grazing rather than as delicate seedlings in cell-trays that are then transplanted.
  • Inspecting plants by torchlight to catch the culprits in the act and removing them, keeping an eye out for the small grey slugs that are often the biggest offenders. Relocate to a compost heap if available.
  • Encouraging birds, frogs and hedgehogs into gardens who will help keep numbers at bay.
  • Consider growing robust shrubs or perennials that slugs and snails are known to shun including Euphorbia, Bleeding heart, Fuchsia, Geranium and Salvia.

For more information about slugs and snails in gardens and the plants they least prefer visit: www.rhs.org.uk

 

The RHS Science team is currently conducting four different research projects on slugs and snails, including mapping the yellow cellar slug and studying nematode control treatments. The 100-strong team will move to RHS Hilltop, the new home of gardening science, at RHS Garden Wisley which opens to the public on 24th June. For more information visit: www.rhs.org.uk/hilltop

 
Vitax support High Ground

Vitax have been helping the HighGround charity celebrate Captain Tom's 101st Birthday this Bank Holiday weekend...


Vitax have been helping the HighGround charity celebrate Captain Tom's 101st Birthday this Bank Holiday weekend.

 

Garden lovers have been posting "I'm supporting @highgroundcharity and #captainTom100 and I'm so looking forward to using my Bulb Planner!"

 

 
Hedgehogs are back on the wildlife care agenda

Wild Bird Care sales last week were static compared to the same week in 2019 but there was a 20% increase from sales the previous week. Tom Chambers lines saw some big inceases and we see Hodgehog food back in the chart again...


 

Wild Bird Care sales last week were static compared to the same week in 2019 but there was a 20% increase from sales the previous week. Tom Chambers lines saw some big inceases and we see Hodgehog food back in the chart again.

  • Tom Chambers Classic Seed Blend 3.75kg were the highest re-entry at No 4.
  • Henry Bell Fat Balls, pack of 6, climbed 28places up the chart to No 20.
  • Gardman Hedgehog Bites 650g increased sales to be at No 50.

See the full GTN Bestsellers Top 50 charts, compiled from garden centre Epos data every week, with a years subscription to the printed newsletter for only £145.00 using this link.

 
Wild Wales Seeds launches vegetable garden seed kits

Online seed business Wild Wales Seeds has launched its new Grow Your Own boxes as an easy way to create a vegetable garden from scratch...


 
Online seed business Wild Wales Seeds has launched its new Grow Your Own boxes as an easy way to create a vegetable garden from scratch.
 
Inside the eco-friendly packaging you’ll find:
  • 3 x 100% biodegradable plant pots
  • 3 x peat free compost discs
  • 3 x seed varieties
  • 3 x eco-friendly plant markers
  • …and an information card containing instructions and a simple step by step guide.
Designed as a unique gift or a simple way to start your own crop, the kits contain everything you need to start sowing in one box. As well as vegetable seeds, each box also includes a pack of wildflower seeds.
 
“Ecology, caring for the planet and re-wilding is something very close to our hearts and that’s why we’ve also enclosed in your box a 5g pack of our most popular butterfly & bee mix for you to start creating your own wildflower garden,” says Wild Wales Seeds founder Rhys Jenkins. “Not only do they encourage high biodiversity, they also make a pretty and colourful addition to the garden.”
 
Having young children inspired Rhys and his wife Kelly to come up with the idea for the Grow Your Own boxes.
 
“Growing from seed is easy and fun and we hope we can encourage everyone from our own children to keen first time gardeners to get planting,” says Rhys. “We want to show the next generation that seasonal fruit and veg is right here in the UK and doesn’t have to be imported from all over the world. It can be grown and eaten locally with no carbon footprint and no plastic packaging. We have also tried to be as environmentally friendly as possible, so our eco-friendly packaging is sourced from sustainable materials.”
 
 
Rhys set up Wild Wales Seeds last year at the beginning of the pandemic and has been delighted with how the business has grown in such unpredictable times. A former farmer, Rhys knows the benefits of spending time in nature, and is keen to encourage others to get outdoors more.
 
“Gardening is brilliant for mental and physical health and helps the environment too,” he says. “This is just the right time of year to get out in the garden and these boxes make vegetable gardening simple, mess-free, fun and eco-friendly - it really is the cleverest way to get growing!”
 
Wild Wales Seeds is also encouraging customers to share photographs of the things they have grown by sending them to info@wildwales-seeds.co.uk or tagging Wild Wales Seeds on Facebook or Instagram; they will then publish their favourite photos.
 
Visit Orchid Inspiration Days by appointment

Eleven participating nurseries are opening their doors for the inspiring orchid event from 8 to 17 June 2021...


 

The Orchid Inspiration Days event can be visited safely, by appointment and with social distancing. You can now book a visit with the participating growers.  

 

Covid-secure event 

As in other years, visitors need to specify in advance which nurseries they want to visit and when. What is new this year is that - in line with the current restrictions - they are working with timeslots, social distancing and a maximum number of visitors. All this is designed to ensure a safe visit. The registration process is different for each nursery. That is why the booking options are listed for each nursery on the Orchid Inspiration Days website (https://orchidinspirationdays.com/en/companies/). Find your chosen nursery and book an appointment!  

 

Plenty of inspiration 

The participants in the Orchid Inspiration Days are delighted that they are still able to organise a physical event, taking account of the restrictions. They are very excited to be able to present their (new) products to customers and and-customers. The participants in this edition are: Ansu Vanda, Artisan, Aphrodite Orchidee, De Hoog Orchids, GreenBalanZ, Inca Orchids, Levoplant, OK Plant, Opti-flor, Stolk Flora and Ter Laak Orchids. Eleven leading nurseries where the trade-focused customer can go for the latest varieties, various concepts and above all: to gain lots of inspiration!  

 

A sneak preview of the Orchid Inspiration Days 

Orchid Inspiration Days inspires! For everyone who is interested in a sneak preview of the ultimate orchid event and wants to stay up to date: the website http://www.orchidinspirationdays.com and the social media channels of Orchid Inspiration Days FacebookLinkedInInstagram and Twitter keep track of the developments of the event. You will also find information for each participant on how to safely book an appointment with the company. 

 
The best of last week's

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


 
Iglu 360 is the perfect outdoor dining experience for garden centres

More popular than ever, the Iglu360 is the must have for the latest contemporary look to upgrade your garden centre restaurant...


More popular than ever, the Iglu360 is the must have for the latest contemporary look to upgrade your garden centre restaurant, ensuring to be the most booked-up attraction throughout the UK...

  • Popular during Winter as they provide a heated covered outdoor seating area.
    Just as popular in Summer when the clear PVC cover can be simply removed (partially or completely).
    Great return on your investment, as guests are prepared to pay extra for this novelty and also extends your indoor seating capacity to the outdoors. 
    The Iglu360 dome is comfortable for up to 8 people.

 

Why?

  • Thanks to over 14 years’ experience in the event and hospitality industry, we have a keen understanding of our customers needs.
    The demand for heated, outdoor seating continues to grow.
    Customers value a personal and intimate experience where they can spend quality time together.
    Revenue from Iglu bookings exceeded our catering revenue, confirming their popularity with our customers.
    Our Iglu’s create perfect exterior seating areas for all seasons.
    For pop-up bars and events, we have created our screw-free speedy bracket system. Fast and easy setup within 15 minutes and without to use of power tools.
    Our Iglu’s have been manufactured using high quality 40mm plywood and 0.8mm durable PVC covers. They are manufactured in the UK to the highest quality.

 

| FAST AND EASY SETUP
| EASY TO TRANSPORT
| DURABLE MATERIALS
| ANY COLOUR OPTION POSSIBLE
| GREAT RETURN ON YOUR INVESTMENT

 

 

Download the Iglu360 brochure here

 

 

 

 

www.iglu360.uk 
sales@iglu360.uk 
+44 (0) 1202 985255 

 

 

 

 

 

 
Swedish success story for Highfield Garden World protégé

The team at Highfield Garden World in Gloucestershire is toasting the success of former member of staff Alcwyn Davies having heard the news that he has beaten 1,700 others to win a coveted award in his adopted home country of Sweden...


 

The team at Highfield Garden World in Gloucestershire is toasting the success of former member of staff Alcwyn Davies having heard the news that he has beaten 1,700 others to win a coveted award in his adopted home country of Sweden.

 

Alcwyn made a big impression during his 12 years at Highfield.  In 2012 he moved to Sweden where he now works for Plantagen – the leading Nordic garden centre brand with more than 150 stores across Scandinavia.  After a competitive round where each store nominated a candidate, Alcwyn has been crowned ‘Employee of the Year’ in Sweden. 

 

Jon Mason, who is a Director and the Planteria Manager at Highfield, commented; “Alcywn literally could not tell a rose from a daffodil when he joined our planteria team back in 2000.  But he was a grafter with loads of energy and the gift of the gab.  He worked hard, learnt fast and became a real asset to the business – as popular with customers as he was with staff.  We were all sad to see him go when he upped sticks and moved to Sweden, but we’ve always kept in touch and we’re thrilled for him that he’s won this award.  Plantagen are lucky to have him.”

 

Alcwyn commented:  “Highfield was a fantastic place to begin my career in horticulture.  I knew nothing when I started, but the whole team was supportive, fun, and so knowledgeable that I was able to learn a huge amount in a short space of time. I’m really grateful to them for sowing the seeds of what has become a hugely fulfilling career for me, and receiving this award has been an especially proud moment.”

 

Alcwyn Davies during his Highfield Garden World days.

 
Bents receives Covid-secure recognitions as it opens up alfresco dining

Bents Garden & Home has received recognition of its high standards of customer care, having been presented with two Covid secure accreditations which it hopes will further help visitors to feel safe and welcome at the family owned and run centre...


Bents Garden & Home has received recognition of its high standards of customer care, having been presented with two Covid secure accreditations which it hopes will further help visitors to feel safe and welcome at the family owned and run centre.

 

The accreditations include the Visit Britain We’re Good to Go award and the AA’s Covid Safe recognition and both have been secured in time for the opening up of Bents’ alfresco dining destinations; providing further peace of mind for customers looking to take advantage of the next step in the Government’s Road Map.

 

Whilst Bents has continued to provide customers with takeaway options throughout the latest lockdown, it can now offer a number of alfresco dining destinations throughout the store, all of which offer a delicious choice of homemade, freshly prepared food. 

 

In addition to the outdoor seating areas located next to Bents’ Alfresco Huts, Pet Café and Jurassic Cove Adventure Golf Course, it has also extended the area around it’s picturesque lake. Alfresco Lakeside Dining includes an extensive decking area and a covered marquee area, which is open sided in compliance with Government guidelines, and offers shelter from the elements.

 

Whilst prior booking is required for Alfresco Lakeside Dining, which can be made online at bents.co.uk or in store on the day, Bents additional outdoor dining options are all open on a take away or walk-in basis. 

 

Says Matthew Bent, Managing Director at Bents Garden & Home: “We are so pleased to be able to widen our food offering with these alfresco dining options.  Food is one of our huge passions so it is great to be welcoming guests again and hope they enjoy dining with us over the coming weeks. 

 

“The two accreditations we have received from Visit Britain and the AA mean a great deal to us.  They are two hugely respected organisations so we hope the awards will help provide even more confidence for our customers as we continue to navigate the Covid roadmap.”

 
Woodlodge win GCA Supplier of the Year Award

The team at Woodlodge Products are celebrating this week after being presented with the GCA’s 2020 Associate of the Year Award...


The team at Woodlodge Products are celebrating this week after being presented with the GCA’s 2020 Associate of the Year Award

 

Members were asked to vote for the supplier, a GCA Associate member, which had done the most for their business and the industry through support, service and innovation last year.

 

Woodlodge Products’ Director, Michael Wooldridge says: “We are delighted to have been awarded the GCA Associate of the Year, which symbolises our commitment to providing a high level of personal service to all our customers. It is great to be recognised in this achievement!

 

“Despite the many challenges that the pandemic has brought us, last year was an amazing year, which took us all by surprise. The commitment and enthusiasm from everyone at Woodlodge meant that we pulled through and this award is testament to the continued hard work, passion and dedication of the team.

 

“2021 has brought new challenges with production stretched to meet the huge demand. We’ve implemented a stock allocation system, so that stock is distributed fairly to our garden centre customers nationwide. We would like to thank our customers for their ongoing support through what looks to be another extraordinary year.”

 

The GCA normally announces the winner of the Associate of the Year Award at its annual conference in January but was unable, understandably, to host the event this year.

 

Iain Wylie, Chief Executive of the GCA, explains: “It’s wonderful to once again be presenting this award to such a worthy winner. Woodlodge are consistently highly rated by our members, are very well respected in the sector and are worthy winners.

 

“We usually announce the recipient at our annual Conference in January, and they are presented with the Haskins Stewarts Cup, but, of course, this year we haven’t been able to hold it as normal. However, we still wanted to make this award and waited until it was safe to do so. Will Blake, GCA Executive Committee member, travelled to Woodlodge to make the presentation this week.

 

 

“The award idea was initiated originally by two well-known industry members Martin Stewart and Warren Haskins, who were lifelong friends, local business competitors and longstanding GCA members, as well as past Chairmen. They gave us the Cup to present, which is returned and given each year to the new winner. The winner also receives a glass plaque to keep.

 

“Five other companies have been recognised for their hard work in supporting garden centres too. We’re delighted to present ‘Highly Commended’ awards to Gisela Graham Ltd, Melcourt Industries Ltd, Smart Garden Products Ltd, The Farplants Group and Allensmore Nurseries Ltd.

 

“Members voted in record numbers and there were many popular choices, so this year, given the particularly difficult circumstances in which our Associate Members have been operating, we felt it was right to recognise them. 

 

“We would like to extend our hearty congratulations to them and to thank them for their ongoing contribution to our industry.”

 

The GCA represents nearly 200 garden centres nationwide.

 

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

 

For further information, please call 01244 952170. Alternatively, please visit www.gca.org.uk, log on to www.facebook.com/pages/GardenCentreAssociation or follow the organisation on Twitter at www.twitter.com/GC_Association.

 
Get your own copy of GTN Xtra

with all the news direct to your e-mail inbox...





with all the news direct to your e-mail inbox.  The best news service every weekend and all the breaking news as it happens.

Subscribe for free using this link

 
Barton Grange Christmas 2020 - Exclusive GTN Xtra Photo Tour

In advance of the launch of GTN's Greatest Christmas Awards 2020, GTN's Northern Correspondent, Steve Myatt, paid a visit to Barton Grange to bring you this first GTN Xtra Christmas photo tour.


In advance of the launch of GTN's Greatest Christmas Awards 2020, GTN's Northern Correspondent, Steve Myatt, paid a visit to Barton Grange to bring you this first GTN Xtra Christmas photo tour.

 

To add your garden centre Christmas photo tour to GTN Xtra simply get snapping and enter The Greatest Christmas Awards.  See the categories here.  Send an e-mail to trevor@pottingshedpress.co.uk for more details

 

 
Squires Badshot Lea - Christmas 2020
Sneak preview of Squires Badshot Lea Greatest Christmas Awards entry
See Squires Bashot Lea's Christmas Awards entry photo tour here

 

Here's a sneak preview of the photo tour submitted by Squires at Badshot Lea as part of their entry in GTN's Greatest Christmas Awards 2020.

 

There's over £7,000 worth of prizes to be won in GTN's Greatest Christmas Awards 2020 so get snapping and enter your garden centre team today!

 

Full details are here.

 

 
Perrywood at Christmas 2020 - with correct photo gallery now...
Sneak preview of Perrywoods Greatest Christmas Awards entry
See Perrywoods Christmas Awards Entry Photo Tour here

 

Here's a sneak preview of Perrywoods photo tour entry in GTN's Greatest Christmas Awards for 2020, including the vital ingredient for all entries, team photos. See the gallery of photos below.  Apologies for the wrong photos being included in yesterdays edition.

 

There's over £7,000 worth of prizes to be won in GTN's Greatest Christmas Awards so get snapping and enter today.  Full details can be found here.

 

 
Bestsellers Top 50 charts every week

Every week GTN receives and analyses epos data from a number of UK garden centres to produce the GTN Bestsellers charts...


Every week GTN receives and analyses epos data from a number of UK garden centres to produce the GTN Bestsellers charts and weekly bestsellers sales tips.

 

The full charts which provide useful insight into product sales peaks, new trends and new link sales opportunities are published in the weekly GTN Xtra newsletter.

As the year goes on we give sales volume comparisons with 2018 as well as 2019 to allow your teams to see variations over a three year period.

 

Access is by subscription only.  For £145.00 per year you and your team can have access to the most up-to-date gardening sales analysis that has already helped many UK garden centres increase their sales.  To subscribe call 07973 504214, e-mail karen@pottingshedpress.co.uk or buy on-line using this link.

Highlights of the GTN Garden Products Bestsellers chart for last week are here

Highlights of the GTN Garden Plants Bestsellers chart for last week are here

 

Highlights of the GTN Growing Media Bestsellers chart for last week are here

 

Highlights of the GTN Wild Bird Care Bestsellers chart for last week are here

 

WARNING the GTN Bestsellers Charts seriously improve the business of our subscribers.  Invest 15 minutes each week in improving your sales using the GTN Bestsellers charts and your turnover and customer satisfaction will improve too.

 

Get the GTN Bestsellers charts in full every week in the GTN Bestsellers newsletters for only £145.00.

GTN Bestsellers is the only industry source of weekly garden centre sales information, collating Epos data from centres with an aggregate turnover in excess of £100m.

Use the weekly Garden Products and Growing Media Top 50 sales volumes charts to plan your hotspot and other promotions and ensure you have the right products in stock to satisfy the needs of your customers.

For further information contact karen@pottingshedpress.co.uk or call 07973504214.

Buy your subscription today and start receiving the GTN Bestsellers charts this week.

All the latest news from the world of pet products


 
Dog food firm secures multi-million pound investment

Award-winning Pure Pet Food has raised a multi-million pound investment to accelerate the company’s growth with the company aiming to quadruple in size over the next four years...


 

Award-winning Pure Pet Food has raised a multi-million pound investment to accelerate the company’s growth with the company aiming to quadruple in size over the next four years. 

 

The funds were raised from Mercia's Northern Venture Capital Trust (VCT) Funds and the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund.

 

Set up in 2012 by childhood friends Daniel Valdur Eha and Mathew Cockroft, Pure focuses on personalising pet nutrition using only natural ingredients, working with leading vets and nutritionists to offer the very best at every stage of a dog's life. 

 

Mat said: “The investment will help Pure continue to provide the very best service to our customers, create deeper connections, significantly grow our customer base, offer more personalised health-based products and services, develop and grow our retail proposition with Pets at Home and continue to lead the air-dried pet food market in the UK.”

 

“We started Pure after seeing pet food full of low-quality ingredients manufactured into highly-processed brown biscuits dominate the market. We knew there was a better way and set out to inspire a healthier world for pets and educate owners on the benefits of feeding simple natural air-dried food.”

 

Pure takes natural, high-quality ingredients and gently removes the water whilst retaining all the nutrients. All a dog owner has to do is add the water back in. The ingredients aren't highly processed, and there is no need to freeze or refrigerate Pure. 

 

Pure’s co-founder Dan added: “Our obsession with pet health and technology has meant we've been able to take a truly data-led approach to pet nutrition. Our success is rooted in being able to conveniently offer the most nutritious diet at every stage of a dog's life."

 

A representative of Mercia said: “We're delighted to support Dan and Mat as they expand Pure Pet Food in the fast-growing pet food sector. With dog ownership and home delivery on the rise and owners generally focusing more on health, Pure is in a real sweet spot and represents the future of pet nutrition.”

 

Pure's growth has accelerated in the pandemic, with owners opting for the online subscription convenience instead of carrying their heavy dry or wet food home from a retail store. 

 

The future for Pure, which won Pet Product Innovation of the Year at the PetQuip Awards in 2013, looks bright as the company aims to quadruple in size over the next four years. 

 

Pure and Mercia were provided legal advice by Square One Law & Gunner Cooke LLP.

The Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund project is supported financially by the European Union using funding from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) as part of the European Structural and Investment Funds Growth Programme 2014-2020 and the European Investment Bank. 

 
Specialist hedgehog food brand adds to range

Specialist hedgehog food brand, Spike’s, has launched a new food for wild hedgehogs that is packed with nutrition...


Specialist hedgehog food brand, Spike’s, has launched a new food for wild hedgehogs that is packed with nutrition.

 

Spike’s Scrummy Meaty Supper is the latest addition to the extensive Spike’s hedgehog food range.

 

The 100% natural product contains no artificial flavours or colours and has no added sugar, making it the perfect complementary food for garden visitors.

 

Michael Haigh, brand manager at Spike’s, commented: “With a decrease in the hedgehog population by about 46% over the last 13 years, consumers are seeing the importance of feeding wildlife now more than ever before.

 

"Spike’s Scrummy Meaty Supper is a highly nutritious food and the high moisture content helps support hydration which is key to hedgehog survival throughout spring and summer.

 

“The new addition to the range is highly palatable making it a great food for hoglets and fussier hogs and fed regularly it will encourage hedgehogs to visit your garden, helping them survive in the modern day urban habitat that we live in today.”

 

Made with fresh chicken for added protein, Spike’s Scrummy Meaty Supper can is a great extension to the wildlife food range – RRP £1.49, 395g.

 

Spike’s Scrummy Meaty Supper is available to order now. For more information, contact your area sales manager, call 01254 54545 or email info@petschoice.co.uk.