In This Issue
Government publishes plan to ban peat sales by 2024
Industry prepares for a peat-less future
Lull in sales before mid-Summer
Clear ‘N’ Collect is a great British success story
Traeger continues to revolutionise the BBQ industry
Blue Diamond top £200m turnover and commit to Chelsea garden
Two London locations announced for little dobbies
Logwood Mill becomes fourth centre for Creative Gardens
Glee organisers promote Safe & Secure standards in two new videos
Greenfingers Charity unveils new garden design by RHS Chelsea Gold Medal Winner, Ann-Marie Powell
Cool summer plant sales
Hillier unveils designs for Gardeners’ World Spring Fair
Fargro Ltd set to bloom in 2021 under new management
Defra-funded Plant Passport e-learning launches
The ultimate recycling - Squire’s turn plastic bags into cash
Evergreen Garden Care launches mental health awareness initiatives across all channels
Haskins Roundstone wins Garden Centre of the Year award
St Peters creates ‘an adventure into nature and wildlife’
How Primeur’s Tierra Verde planters are driving profitability
Southern Trident announces charity partnership with Child Rights and You (CRY UK)
Namgrass reveals eco-friendly artificial grass
DJ Turfcare confirmed for Glee 2021
Unprecedented Demand - Record Easter garden centre sales lead to stock shortages - Read GTN's April issue on-line now
Dobbies hosts bee-rilliant virtual event with Neal’s Yard Remedies to celebrate World Bee Day
National Children’s Gardening Week partners with Peppa Pig & Regatta Great Outdoors for Save the Children
Get your own copy of GTN Xtra
Pots of Sustainability in RHS Chelsea Sustainable Gardening Product of the Year
Double the fun at Grimsby Garden Centre
Solar lights up sales
Johnsons adds to seed range for the 2022 season
How to reduce plastic waste in the garden
Another amazing growing media performance
Sanctuaries Garden, Terrace & Balcony. Trends and new products for the outdoor season from spoga + gafa
The AIPH International Grower of the Year Awards 2022 opens for entries
Prompt needed to push Wild Bird Care sales
BHETA to hold second Q&A on international freight
RECOUP launch new hybrid conference for 2021
HTA responds to the Queen's speech
The best of last week's
25% more gardening sets new April record
Monkton Elm Pet Centre stops the sale of rabbits
Phenomenal year of sales for Natural Grower
Ergrownomics - The future of raised planters and beds
Garden Re-Leaf Day 2021 raises over £75,000
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
Supreme Petfoods provides 30 hours of free CPD, now accredited by SQP regulator Vetpol
UK to lead way on animal welfare with new Action Plan
Brambles appoints new Digital Marketing Manager
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Government publishes plan to ban peat sales by 2024

The Environment Secretary, George Eustice, will today speak from Delamere Forest when he will confirm that the Government will ban sales of peat products by the end of this Parliament, subject to public consultation this year...


The Environment Secretary, George Eustice, will today speak from Delamere Forest when he will confirm that the Government will ban sales of peat products by the end of this Parliament, subject to public consultation this year.

 

In the England Peat Action plan, published this morning, George Eustace says: "In recent decades, progress has also been made in developing alternatives to the use of peat in horticulture, with the consistency of substitutes like coir improving. Peatland soils and the habitats they support should be nurtured, not mined, and this Action Plan sets out measures to accelerate the switch to the use of alternatives, starting first with bans on the sale of peat for amateur use by the end of this parliament, and gradually moving to alternatives for other commercial sectors over time."

 

The text within the plan regarding peat use in amateur and professional horticulture is as follows:

 

Future vision: horticultural peat

 

In 2011, the government set out its ambition for the horticultural sector in England to be peat free by 2030, with voluntary targets for a peat free amateur sector by 2020 and the professional sector by 2030. We note that there has been some progress by particular manufacturers, retailers and growers. For example, the UK’s soft fruit industry have successfully transitioned from using peat to coir. However, the voluntary approach has not succeeded overall; as shown by Figure 2 the total volume of peat sold in the UK is 25% lower in 2019 compared to 2011 but is still way off our ambition. The volume of peat sold in the UK rose by 9% in 2020 due to unprecedented demand throughout the year and the impact of the global pandemic on the supply chains for alternative materials. We set out in the 25 Year Environment Plan that if we had not seen sufficient movement to peat alternatives by 2020, we will look at introducing further measures. Further action is clearly required to continue to drive the transition to peat alternatives and to support the industry to overcome barriers to this transition.

 

We will formally consult on a range of potential legislative measures in 2021, as well as seeking views on the support the industry will require to make a successful transition. In particular, we will seek to make swift progress in phasing out the use of peat in the amateur sector and will be exploring a range of different types of measures that will achieve this.

 


Figure 2. Volume of peat (m3) sold in the UK between 2011 to 2019 - Growing Media Association (2021) UK Growing Media Monitor report

 

Two thirds of the peat sold in the UK is imported from the rest of Europe. This means we are effectively exporting our carbon footprint. We shall continue to focus on reducing demand for peat in horticulture, recognising the need to protect not only England’s peatland, but peatland in other countries affected by the current demand in England.

 

The UK’s amateur sector makes up ~80% of horticultural peat use. We are starting to see retailers voluntarily committing to stocking only peat-free products, and we welcome the leadership demonstrated by these retailers. Evidence suggests that consumers continue to misuse bagged peat-based products, for example using them to improve the quality of garden soil, where other products such as manure or green compost would be much more appropriate and beneficial.

 

We will work with the industry to identify how we can increase the resilience of the supply of alternative materials. Coir dust (from coconut husks), wood fibre and bark have shown great promise as replacements for peat and are included in many of the products on the market today. Sphagnum farming on lowland peatlands in England offers the opportunity to source more alternative materials within the UK as well as providing a more sustainable use of our agricultural peatlands. Therefore, the Lowland Agricultural Peat Task Force will work with the growing media industry to develop its roadmap to commercially viable paludiculture.
 
Natural England’s Peat Pilots programme recently shone a light on the practice of grass turf production on peat (which harvests thin layers of peat) and its potential impact on greenhouse gas emissions. The Great Manchester pilot estimated that there is 151.20 hectares of turf production on Chat Moss, and the East Anglian Fens pilot found several turf growers and suppliers of fen topsoil operating in the area. It has proved difficult to arrive at an estimate of the area of total turf production on peat in England and we currently have no formal emission factor for the practice. We have also identified other, less widespread, uses of peat ranging from its presence in cosmetics to its use in the English whiskey industry. These wider uses of peat require further investigation and as such our consultation will also seek to broaden our understanding of these wider considerations.

 

Actions:

We will consult on banning the sale of peat and peat containing products in the amateur sector by the end of this parliament. We will publish a full consultation in 2021 to examine the feasibility of the following measures, to end the use of horticultural peat in both the amateur and professional sectors:

●    Setting absolute deadlines to ban the sale of peat in both the amateur and professional sectors.
●    Introducing a point-of-sale charge for the purchase of growing media containing peat. This could use the plastic bag charge as a model.
●    Mandating all sellers of horticultural products containing peat, including plants, to publicly report on the volume of peat they sell each year (in bags or plant pots).
●    Issuing a call for evidence on the wider uses of peat and peat products in the retail sector; for example - grass turf production, cosmetics and industries where peat forms part of the production process.

 

We will also:

●    Continue to work with the industry to understand the implications of these proposals, identify blockages and work across government and the private sector to develop and enact solutions.
●    Work with and challenge the horticultural sector to reduce the reliance on peat in growing media and associated products in order to prepare the sector for legislation.
●    Continue to support the industry’s Responsible Sourcing Scheme for Growing Media to ensure that the environmental footprint of peat alternatives is minimised.
●    Actively promote the benefits of peat-free growing media to gardeners through public awareness and education; to help shift the demand to peat-free alternatives in advance of legislation, and to soils improvers where they are more appropriate.
●    Identify opportunities to work with the devolved administrations to develop a UK wide approach to horticultural peat and related products.

 

The England Peat Action Plan can be accessed here

Industry prepares for a peat-less future

In advance of tomorrows reported publishing of the governments Peat Strategy by George Eustace, DEFRA Minister, the UK gardening industry appears to be preparing for a peat-less future...


In advance of tomorrows reported publishing of the governments Peat Strategy by George Eustace, DEFRA Minister, the UK gardening industry appears to be preparing for a peat-less future.

 

The growing media task force, an industry group consisting of Garden Centre Association (GCA), National Farmers Union (NFU), Royal Horticultural Society (RHS), Growing Media Association(GMA) and Responsible Sourcing Scheme (RSS) and coordinated by the Horticultural Trades Association (HTA), have announced they will publish a plan in the summer outlining how targets that include removing peat from the retail market by 2025 will be achieved.

 

The key organisations from horticulture have committed to end the sector’s use of peat, pledging to remove it from the retail market as early as 2025 and no later than the end 2028. For professional horticulture, the range is between 2028 and 2030. Inside the existing target date, both are dependent on government support.

 

The group’s ‘Responsible Sourcing Statement’ released today highlights how these targets are dependent on support from government, the availability of alternatives and a principle of exceptions for certain types of plants. It outlines the importance of the Responsible Sourcing Scheme for Growing Media initiative, which seeks to communicate the environmental impact of all growing media materials. There needs to be full consideration of what the environmental impact of other materials are when peat is removed.


Speaking on behalf of the group as new data also shows the increase in use of alternatives to peat and the percentage of peat contained in growing media continues to fall, Chairman of the HTA, James Barnes, said: "While just 0.04% of the UK’s peatlands are extracted for horticulture, as a ‘green’ industry we recognise the value of peat as a store of carbon and are firmly committed to removing its use from horticulture. Extraction from England’s peatlands has halved since 2011 and to continue this we need reliable sources of quality alternatives in the quantities required to replace peat. Members of the RSS are committed to achieving and finding new and novel materials.


“The detail around how we do all this needs reasoned and proportionate consideration. We need to make sure any change over to new materials are environmentally responsible. The industry’s RSS is fully committed to this and will not introduce materials which potentially have negative environmental impacts. We need an evidenced based approach, working closely with government to ensure there is the essential support to access peat alternatives and enable the industry to make the changes needed to transition away from peat. We must ensure our horticultural industry is enhanced, not damaged and only when these issues are addressed can the necessary change happen.”

 

This evening the Garden Centre Association (GCA) has issued a statement saying that it is fully supportive of the need to remove peat from amateur horticulture.

 

Their statement reads: "We support the Growing Media Taskforce statement and will be working alongside our colleagues in its aims.

 

"There is a need to assist gardeners in making the transition from peat based growing media and we believe this is possible by 2025, subject to the availability of quality peat free composts to meet consumer demand.
 
"We understand the challenge for the manufacturers, which will be to find sufficient quantities of the right materials necessary to replace peat, so that quality growing media is available to everyone.

 

"Growers will need a level playing field with imported plants and material support from Government will be absolutely vital, in order for both to be achieved. 
 
"Gardening is a force for good in the population’s mental and physical health and, also, for the environment. 

 

"The more people that are involved in gardening the more they are aware first-hand of the changes happening in the climate and, so, are more likely to respond positively to adjust the way they live."

 

Pictured above; the Peat Free Growing Media sales area at Country House Group's Windlesham Plant & Home Centre.

 

Lull in sales before mid-Summer

With just six weeks to go until mid-Summer’s day, in a pre-pandemic year with weather as cold as it has been this March, April and May, we would all have been bemoaning the weather and blaming that for poor sales of plants and garden furniture while banking on garden centre restaurants and coffee shops to keep footfall and turnover up...


 

With just six weeks to go until mid-Summer’s day, in a pre-pandemic year with weather as cold as it has been this March, April and May, we would all have been bemoaning the weather and blaming that for poor sales of plants and garden furniture while banking on garden centre restaurants and coffee shops to keep footfall and turnover up.

 

The reverse has happened this year with sales continuing well above ‘normal’ levels despite the lack of warmth for people to enjoy their outside spaces. Until last week when sales dipped below 2019 and 2018 levels for the first time.  

 

That may be a godsend, however, as it could provide the lull that’s needed for plants to grow and stock supplies to replenish. When the weather does warm up for mid-Summer, after what we’ve seen so far this year, we could be in for another period of huge growth.

 

GTN Bestsellers Top 50 sales volumes compared to the same week in 2019: week 19.

  • Garden Products Top 50 – down 1%
  • Growing Media Top 50 – up 2%
  • Veg 2 Gro Top 50 – down 25%
  • Wild Bird & Wildlife Care Top 50 – down 21%

 

GTN Bestsellers All Sales volumes compared to the same week in 2019: week 19.

  • All Plants with Barcode index – down 10%
  • All Items with Barcode index – static 0%

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.

Clear ‘N’ Collect is a great British success story
GTN Xtra Promotion

Clear ‘N’ Collect is capable of much more than the typical garden rake or simply clearing dead leaves. Moss, twigs, prunings, brambles, thorns and more are amassing in areas that will soon need to be ship shape if we’re to make the most of the Summer ahead and Clear ‘N’ Collect can shift the lot of them...

 


Clear ‘N’ Collect is capable of much more than the typical garden rake or simply clearing dead leaves. Moss, twigs, prunings, brambles, thorns and more are amassing in areas that will soon need to be ship shape if we’re to make the most of the Summer ahead and Clear ‘N’ Collect can shift the lot of them. 

 

Not only is Clear ‘N’ Collect’s sturdy, multi-purpose rake one of the handiest garden tools you’re likely to see, it is also a great British success story, fully designed and manufactured in the UK by an independent family business. 

 

The hallmarks of excellence in design and manufacture are also backed with high environmental standards, with every Clear ‘N’ Collect product made from incredibly robust recycled plastics which include former car dashboards. It can, of course, be recycled at the end of its life as well. 

 

Whilst the majority of leaf fall takes place in the autumn months, a combination of the volatile, changing climate and extreme bouts of weather are having quite an impact on trees, shrubs and bushes. 

Those of us with hedges will be well-aware what a big task it is to keep them in shape, never mind clearing up again afterwards. Trimming and pruning is an ongoing job which cuts across the seasons, depending on the variety of hedge and the style you want to keep it in.  

 

Along with its other multifarious benefits, Clear ‘N’ Collect once again comes into its own as a hedge clearing helper, ideally suited to the collection of all those lighter hedge clippings, twigs and leaves which fall during pruning.  

 

 

We can offer your garden centre a pack of 20 in an eye-catching POS. Contact Sally on 07766073183 or email sales@clearncollect.com

 

To watch Clear ‘N’ Collect in action click here

 

Visit www.clearncollect.com for more videos of Clear'N'Collect in action. 

Traeger continues to revolutionise the BBQ industry
GTN Xtra Promotion

As the world’s number one selling wood-pellet fired grill and with the current short supply of fuel for gas-fired grills, what better time than to consider swapping to a superb Traeger 885 wood fired grill – readily available for delivery nationwide...


 

As the world’s number one selling wood-pellet fired grill and with the current short supply of fuel for gas-fired grills, what better time than to consider swapping to a superb Traeger 885 wood fired grill – readily available for delivery nationwide. 

 

Key features:

  • WiFIRE® - control grill from anywhere on your smartphone
  • Double sidewall insulation – consistent temperatures in any weather
  • Super smoke mode – enhance smoke flavour
  • Temperature range 75 - 260ºC
  • Digital meat probe – precise temperature readings
  • Smoke/sear setting – adjustable grill grate position
  • Downdraft Exhaust® – Circulates smoke for max flavour

Designed to elevate your craft, the Traeger Ironwood 855 will make wood-fired meals faster, easier and packed with more flavour and with a retail price of £1,699, it offers all the versatility of a traditional oven, adding delicious wood-fired flavour to all your outdoor cooking.  

 

For more information, visit: www.traegergrills.eu

Blue Diamond top £200m turnover and commit to Chelsea garden

Blue Diamond have reported a record year in their 2020 Report and Accounts with profit before tax up 64% to £23.5m on sales up 11% to £201m and they have also announced the Garden Centre Group will be designing an Artisan Garden at the prestigious RHS Chelsea Flower Show when it returns in September (20-26th September)...


Blue Diamond have reported a record year in their 2020 Report and Accounts with profit before tax up 64% to £23.5m on sales up 11% to £201m and they have also announced the Garden Centre Group will be designing an Artisan Garden at the prestigious RHS Chelsea Flower Show when it returns in September (20-26th September).

 

Blue Diamond Chairman Simon Burke said: "Our year end net debt was just £5.3m which is 0.2 times EBITDA and a gearing ratio of 4%. Shareholders will have seen from our various updates the roller-coaster nature of the year, but the key factor producing these results has been the sustained strong garden centre trading, focused on plants and garden products, that we saw from the end of the first lockdown in May 2020 right up to Christmas. Overall, this produced an 11% increase in sales, whilst like-for-like sales were flat year on year.


"Within this, however, garden centre sales grew by 24% (12% like-for-like) whereas restaurant sales fell by 42% (46% like-for-like). Once again, the ex-Wyevale stores were the best performers, with garden centre sales growth averaging 25% across the year.

 

"Our experience of 2020 has left us confident in the future prospects for Blue Diamond. Our strong cash position will enable us to resume investment in our estate, in particular

to continue the process of upgrading the ex- Wyevale stores which has been so beneficial to date, but also including major investment into some of our core centres, starting with
Newbridge in 2021."
 
MD, Alan Roper, adds: "Our like for like garden centre sales increase was 9.7% up against the industry (GCA) performance of 2.7%. However, the restaurants were closed for five months last year, meaning restaurant like-for-like sales dropped by 46%, reducing the gross profit contribution against budget by £14.1m. This deficit was partly offset by the government business support initiatives, which totalled £10.1m.

"The year ended with a very successful Christmas trading period, which saw sales up 29% compared to the industry (GCA) average performance of 10.5%.

"Later this year in 2021 the ground will be broken to make way for two new Blue Diamond centres. One at Scotch Corner and the other on the Elveden Estate in Suffolk.

"Finally, my thanks to the extraordinary efforts, commitment and loyalty made by our employees in this extraordinary, challenging year."

Read the full Blue Diamond 2020 Report and Accounts here

Today, (Monday 17th May) the Blue Diamond Group has announced it will be designing an Artisan Garden at the prestigious RHS Chelsea Flower Show when it returns in September (20-26th September). 

The Blue Diamond Forge Garden (pictured above) is a collaborative design by the team at The Blue Diamond Group who have combined their expertise to create their first garden at the show. The team are working alongside multi-medal winning landscaper, Ross Conquest and his team Conquest Creative Spaces for the construction of the garden.

The garden celebrates the artisan craft of Blacksmithing, inspired by the National Trust’s Branscombe Forge in Devon, which dates back to the 15th Century and continues to operate today. The Blue Diamond Forge Garden in effect is a historical record of Blacksmiths through the ages, a place to feel relaxed, inspired, a functional forge set in a very naturalistic, yet practical setting.

The Garden features a thatched roofed forge built from natural material, containing art and artefacts from previous blacksmiths.  A garden full of wildflowers surrounds the forge providing inspiration for the resident Blacksmith’s metalwork whilst edible plants, medicinal herbs and a stream that flows through the garden provides food and water. Bespoke pieces of art created by today’s Blacksmiths at Branscombe Forge will complete the gardens authentic feel.

Alan Roper said: “We have exhibited in many RHS shows over the years under our Fryer’s Roses brand, however we are proud and excited to be creating our first Blue Diamond garden at the prestigious RHS Chelsea Flower Show this year. “  

“As a company The Blue Diamond Group recognises and cherishes its heritage, whilst evolving to be relevant to today’s customer.  Creativity is very much at the heart of our retail ethos in our centres throughout the UK and Channel Islands. As a team, we wanted to create a garden that represents the ethos of The Blue Diamond Group which we have done by taking inspiration for the garden from the artisan craft of Blacksmithing and the National Trust’s historic Branscombe Forge where I have personally visited many times over the past 40 years!”  

The Blue Diamond Group Team behind the Blue Diamond Forge Garden include Alan Roper, Managing Director of Blue Diamond, James Nuttall Head of Plants, Jill Kerr Events Manager and Rose Category Manager, Kevin Fleming Plant Manager and Anna King Creative Visual Merchandiser. 

 

 

 

 

Two London locations announced for little dobbies

Dobbies Garden Centres has revealed that its next two little dobbies stores will open in London on Chiswick High Road and Westbourne Grove.


 

Dobbies Garden Centres has revealed that its next two little dobbies stores will open in London on Chiswick High Road and Westbourne Grove.

 

The new little dobbies stores will be the first locations in the capital, following on the success of Edinburgh and Bristol. They will be stores 72 and 73 across the Dobbies’ estate.

 

Graeme Jenkins, CEO at Dobbies, said: “We are very pleased to be announcing our first London-based little dobbies stores, reflecting our continuing ambition to develop and grow the business.

 

“The little dobbies format is proving very successful, offering the Dobbies' experience in towns and cities. It has been created to meet the growing demand to shop local from a growing number of gardening and houseplant enthusiasts.”

 

The stores will open over the course of June and July. They will be horticulturally focused with a carefully curated range of houseplants, as well as convenience and sustainable gardening products, complemented by a range of selected gifts and seasonal products.

 

For further information visit dobbies.com

Logwood Mill becomes fourth centre for Creative Gardens

Family run garden centre business Creative Gardens is not just re-opening its three award winning garden centres after the  Covid lockdown in Northern Ireland but has taken the exciting step of adding a new centre to the group. The Logwood Mill centre, located near Ballyclare, will be known to many as it has been an existing garden centre for many years...


 

Family run garden centre business Creative Gardens is not just re-opening its three award winning garden centres after the  Covid lockdown in Northern Ireland but has taken the exciting step of adding a new centre to the group. The Logwood Mill centre, located near Ballyclare, will be known to many as it has been an existing garden centre for many years.

 

Creative Gardens has been listed alongside 13 other Northern Ireland companies as the one of the most inspirational UK firms with its centres in Donaghadee, Bushmills, Galgorm Castle and now at the former Logwood Mill Garden Centre in Ballyclare.

 

“It does perhaps seem a strange thing to do given the uncertainly rosed by Covid and Brexit," confessed Jenny, the youngest of the Gass Family who own and run the centres. "But the opportunity came along and we couldn’t resist it. Logwood is a long term investment for us and we are confident it will be a huge success."

 

Jenny added: “My parents started the business close to 40 years ago and my two brothers Philip and Oliver and I are really keen to carry it on to the next level.   We just love the changing seasons and the wonderful range of products a garden centre sells represent that so well.

 

“We spend a huge amount of time and effort presenting our beautiful plants and gardening products to help inspire our customers, we love to create interesting displays and use as much colour as possible with everything that we do,” explains Jenny.  “Our coffee shops are places to relax and enjoy delicious homemade food, we make almost everything we sell in our cafes ourselves freshly each day.”

 

The new centre at Logwood was officially opened on Monday 19th April. “We are so excited to finally be open, we’ve had such great feedback from so many lovely customers already and we look forward to welcoming lots more new customers to our centre over the years to come.”

 

Creative Gardens now has four stunning centres with huge plant areas and cafes covering much of Northern Ireland’s population, it employs 230 people and expects turnover to exceed £10m in its next financial year.

 

 
Glee organisers promote Safe & Secure standards in two new videos

To ensure everyone feels safe and secure at Glee in September, organisers Hyve has prepared a list of ‘Safe & Secure’ guidelines. You can find out a lot more about what this means to visitors and exhibitors at the show in two new videos.


To ensure everyone feels safe and secure at Glee in September, organisers Hyve has prepared a list of ‘Safe & Secure’ guidelines. You can find out a lot more about what this means to visitors and exhibitors at the show in two new videos.

 

Hyve’s UK operations director Ian Soloman is interviewed about what the company has been doing across its events over the past year to ensure everything it does adheres to its Safe & Secure standards.

 

In a second video you can learn about the steps Hyve is taking to ensure Glee is run in a safe and secure way, and also learn a little more about what the organiers have in store for you, and how you can make the most of the show.

 

Both videos can be found by clicking here.

 

Glee takes place at the NEC in Birmingham on September 14-16 2021.

Greenfingers Charity unveils new garden design by RHS Chelsea Gold Medal Winner, Ann-Marie Powell

Greenfingers Charity is thrilled to once again be working with RHS Chelsea Gold Medal winner, Ann-Marie Powell. The charity’s latest project to deliver a garden design masterplan for The Nook, a children’s hospice in the heart of Norfolk, brings together Ann-Marie’s inspirational, professional expertise and passion for well-being through nature...


 

Greenfingers Charity is thrilled to once again be working with RHS Chelsea Gold Medal winner, Ann-Marie Powell. The charity’s latest project to deliver a garden design masterplan for The Nook, a children’s hospice in the heart of Norfolk, brings together Ann-Marie’s inspirational, professional expertise and passion for well-being through nature. 

 

Unveiling the masterplan, this ambitious and long-term garden project for The Nook is part of Greenfingers’ mission to bring therapeutic gardens to more life-limited children and families who spend time in hospices across the nation.

 

Selected by the team at The Nook to design the garden, Ann-Marie draws on her personal experience and that of family members who have benefitted from the hospice movement.  

 

At the heart of the design masterplan - her second project for Greenfingers following the award-winning Woodland Walk at Chestnut Tree Children’s Hospice in 2014 - is her intuitive understanding of how life-limited children play differently and need their senses ignited with an environment suited to their needs.

 

Speaking about the project, Ann-Marie said: “I really want the children at The Nook to love being outdoors and feel the excitement of different places to explore with engaging activities they can truly participate in, rather than just spectating. So, there will be a racetrack for wheelchairs, wind mobiles, a forest school and a bright outdoor classroom with a green roof amongst a meadow with plenty of beautiful trees all connected by accessible winding pathways.”

 

There will also be quieter corners where families can relax together including, a ‘Rest and Reflect’ area which will be funded by Greenfingers Charity, thanks to its supporters, and will be opened later this year. The ‘Quiet Relaxation Area’ similarly reflects Ann-Marie’s strong belief in the power of nature to improve wellbeing and lift spirits while creating precious memories.

 

The Nook in Framingham Earl is part of East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH) and was officially opened by their Royal Patron, HRH The Duchess of Cambridge in 2019. Like most hospices the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic has meant that having well-designed, safe and protective outdoor spaces has become even more important than ever. 

 

Commenting on the design, Simon Hempsall, EACH Head of Marketing and Communications, said: “Ann-Marie’s wonderful design stood out because it truly sees our garden through the eyes of the children and their families.  It creates a space tailored to their needs with a wonderful array of exciting activities and different destinations that they can easily navigate. We can’t wait to see the plans come to life over the next few years!”

 

Linda Petrons, Greenfingers’ Director of Fundraising and Communications believes The Nook will become a flagship hospice garden project thanks to Ann-Marie’s enthusiasm, vision and expertise. She said: “The Nook is a really large site with so much potential. Ann-Marie has brought to life so many of our and the hospice’s holistic aims for this therapy garden with her imaginative yet practical ideas, it is sure to provide a blue-print for our future hospice gardens. We have all achieved an even greater appreciation of our outdoor spaces this past year and would like to thank our supporters on behalf of all the children, families, friends and staff that will enjoy and benefit from these fantastic new gardens in the years ahead.”

 

The Greenfingers garden, along with some of the infrastructure, will kick start work at The Nook later this year. We look forward to seeing the remaining gardens come to life as funding becomes available in the months and years ahead.

 

Find out more

To find out moreabout Greenfingers Charity, and how to get involved in a range of fundraising events please email Linda@greenfingerscharity.org.uk.

 

You can also join in the conversation by joining Greenfingers on social media -https://www.facebook.com/Greenfingerscharity/, @GreenfingersCha on Twitter, and @Greenfingerscharity on Instagram and LinkedIn. 

Cool summer plant sales

Plant sales dropped by 13% last week as the cool summer weather had an impact on gardening activity...


 

Plant sales dropped by 13% last week as the cool summer weather had an impact on gardening activity.

  • Petunia and Begonias were the only Top 10 Bestselling plants to increase sales last week.
  • Hardy Geranium’s climbed furthest up the GTN Bestsellers list to No 16.
  • Lupins were the highest chart re-entry at No 39, just in time for the virtual Chelsea Flower Show

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Hillier unveils designs for Gardeners’ World Spring Fair

Visitors to the new BBC Gardeners’ World Spring Fair at Beaulieu in Hampshire, which takes place on 28th to 30th May, will experience a stunning four-part garden display when they make a stop at the all-new Hillier Experience. Details of the exhibit, which takes visitors from dawn to dusk, have now been unveiled...


Visitors to the new BBC Gardeners’ World Spring Fair at Beaulieu in Hampshire, which takes place on 28th to 30th May, will experience a stunning four-part garden display when they make a stop at the all-new Hillier Experience. Details of the exhibit, which takes visitors from dawn to dusk, have now been unveiled.

 

The stunning garden feature will take people on a journey, showcasing how a garden and its plants can evoke the changing mood from dawn to dusk. The Hillier design team has created four garden areas within the floral display separated by raised sleeper beds and a pergola in the centre. The first of the four garden areas eases visitors into the experience with a morning garden brimming with fragrant herbs and an abundance of vegetables, awakening the senses with bright greens and yellows bursting through. 

 

Then the afternoon garden brings home memories of days whiled away in the sunshine, picnicking and having afternoon tea surrounded by fragrant plants, herbaceous borders and pastel tones. The final two areas of the garden take visitors from evening through to night-time. 

 

The evening display offers rich sunset tones and rustic orange shades with twinkling lights and amazing scents drifting across the floral display. Finally, in the night garden, there will be dark foliage complemented by pots of colour, creating a relaxing ambience.

 

Hillier will also unveil a new plant introduction at the show, Cercis x canadensis ‘Eternal Flame.’ This is a beautiful new variety of Cercis with deep red glossy leaves which turn gradually through orange to yellow shades. It has a graduation of coloured leaves on each stem, with mature plants displaying pink flowers along the stems before the foliage. It can grow up to four metres as a tree or can be kept pruned as a multi-stemmed shrub. It can also be grown in large patio containers, so is incredibly versatile. Visitors can admire it up close as part of the Hillier Experience and it will be available to buy from the Hillier retail area at the Fair.

 

As well as showcasing garden inspiration, Hillier will also be sharing knowledge at the show. Hillier experts will be stationed around the Hillier Experience to give one-to-one advice on all aspects of gardening and to answer any questions. Charles Carr, Head of Wholesale Nurseries at Hillier, will also join the BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine editors on the What To Do Now Stage for a series of talks throughout the show. He will be discussing this year’s new plant as well as looking back at some other Hillier plant introductions released in recent years.

 

Finally, the retail section of the Hillier Experience will allow inspiration to become reality, with a selection of top-quality plants grown by Hillier on their nurseries in Hampshire available to purchase.

 

Hillier is headline partner at the new BBC Gardeners’ World Spring Fair, an event that will offer a host of inspiration to experienced and new gardeners alike. “We are excited to be headline partner and to now be able to reveal more details about our Hillier Experience display,” comments Chris Francis, Wholesale and Retail Director of Hillier. “We have created many exhibits over the years, but this is a new show and something different for Hillier. We are looking forward to meeting many gardeners over the weekend, showcasing our Hillier Experience display and sharing our expert advice so they can get even more enjoyment from their own gardens.”

 

The BBC Gardeners’ World Spring Fair will take place in the beautiful open grounds of Beaulieu in Hampshire, home of the National Motor Museum and the ancestral Montagu home Palace House, from Friday 28th May to Sunday 30th May 2021. Find out more and book tickets at www.bbcgardenersworldfair.com

 

For further information about Hillier, visit www.hillier.co.uk

 

Fargro Ltd set to bloom in 2021 under new management

Horticultural solutions and products specialist, Fargro Limited, is preparing for growth in 2021 following the completion of a successful sponsor-backed management buy-out...


 

Horticultural solutions and products specialist, Fargro Limited, is preparing for growth in 2021 following the completion of a successful sponsor-backed management buy-out.

 

The West Sussex-based firm is the UK's largest, and a leading authority, in developing and selling biopesticide solutions and integrated pest/disease management and other specialist products to horticultural growers and amateur gardeners.

 

Whilst initially negatively impacted by the closure of garden centres due to Covid-19, Fargro has since enjoyed a stellar operating year, capitalising on the increased consumer demand for gardening supplies.

 

Now the business is preparing for a period of growth following the completion of a successful MBO, backed by sponsor Ashridge Capital.

 

Richard Hopkins, Managing Director at Fargro Limited, said: “Fargro is a fabulous, well-respected brand, built over 75 years, right from our roots as a co-operative through to demutualisation in 2007.  This investment, our vision, and our passionate management team ensures that we are strongly positioned for a long and healthy future.

 

“Thanks to the support from both Ashridge Capital and Shawbrook Bank, we can now focus fully on preparing for growth and writing the next chapter of the Fargro story under our own management team. This is an exciting time and we’re very well placed to meet the increasing demand for our products as the UK continues to work through the impact of the pandemic and growers maximise the post-Brexit demand for home-grown food and flowering plants.”

 

Specialist bank Shawbrook supported Ashridge Capital and Fargro through an undisclosed ABL facility.

 

Richard added: “The reason we chose to work with Shawbrook in the first place was their experience of MBO situations, including those like our own that featured an external investor, and the team delivered exactly what they proposed.  This is a major event for Fargro, the management team and everyone involved in the business, so certainty and communication make a big difference. 

 

“Shawbrook’s team were proactive throughout, and the flexible funding structure, including consideration of seasonality and truly understanding our business performance despite Covid meant that they emerged as the only lending partner for us.”

 

Fargro has been trading since 1946 and has held a Royal Warrant – a mark of quality – since 1971. The business also has an e-commerce B2C division – The Garden Superstore – which supplies the home and garden market.

 

David Sherratt, Founder and CEO of Ashridge Capital, the sponsor behind Fargro’s management buy-out, said: “Fargro is a great business led by a very impressive management team, and we’re delighted to support the MBO and its growth plans – aided by having Shawbrook onboard as a committed and very capable funding partner.”

 

Steven Munt, Relationship Director at Shawbrook Bank, said: “This was an outstanding opportunity to support a great business with a tailored ABL facility that recognises the seasonality of Fargro’s trading pattern and mix of assets.  We look forward to seeing the business continue its journey and fulfilling its vision to be the trusted, go-to provider of solutions and products for the UK horticultural industry.”

 

Adrian Alexander, Corporate Finance partner at FRP, said: “The Horticulture sector has come to prominence firstly due to climate change and consumer concerns over ‘food miles’.

 

“Secondly it has been one of the key beneficiaries of a difficult year for the economy, with businesses like Fargro playing an important role in facilitating the uptick in demand as people have spent more time at home. Opportunities for growth will no doubt continue as homeowners demand more UK grown products and further indulge their new-found love for gardening, and we look forward to seeing Fargro going from strength to strength as a result.”

 

Shawbrook Bank was advised by Shoosmiths. Fargro was advised by Irwin Mitchell (Legal) and FRP Advisory (Corporate Finance and Debt Advisory). Ashridge Capital was advised by Porter Dodson (Legal) and Jenson Solutions (Financial Due Diligence).

 
Defra-funded Plant Passport e-learning launches

A new Plant Passport e-learning module, developed and funded by Defra, has been launched by the HTA, in conjunction with the Animal & Plant Health Agency. The first 10,000 courses are free and the module is voluntary to use. 


A new Plant Passport e-learning module, developed and funded by Defra, has been launched by the HTA, in conjunction with the Animal & Plant Health Agency. The first 10,000 courses are free and the module is voluntary to use. 

 

Lord Gardiner of Kimble, Minister for Biosecurity, said: “The plant passport system ensures plants moved within Great Britain are both healthy and traceable to source. This Defra funded module is designed to help operators in complying with the plant passport system, to protect British businesses and our environment better from harmful plant pests and diseases.” 

 

Alexandra Jenkins, HTA Learning and Development Manager said: “Anything we can do to aid the processes of Plant Passporting and bio-security is of utmost importance, so it has been an absolute privilege working on this project and has taken many months of hard work from all those involved. 

 

"Once again, our partnership with CPL Learning and our experience in learning technologies can be put to good use for our membership and the industry and we are honoured to support Defra on delivering this module.” 

 

The attached factsheet provides the necessary details regarding what the purpose of the module and how to access it. 

 https://planthealthportal.defra.gov.uk/resources/ 

 

The ultimate recycling - Squire’s turn plastic bags into cash

Squire’s Garden Centres has donated £4,230 to Greenfingers. The donation represents the proceeds of the government 5p carrier bag tax which has been raised by Squire’s over the last two years. 

Sarah Squire (Squire’s Garden Centres) presenting the carrier bag cheque to Linda Petrons (Greenfingers).


 

Squire’s Garden Centres has donated £4,230 to Greenfingers, a charity which builds magical gardens at hospices for children and their families to relax in and find peace and enjoyment, sometimes in the most difficult of circumstances. The donation represents the proceeds of the government 5p carrier bag tax which has been raised by Squire’s over the last two years. 

 

Sarah Squire, Chairman of Squire’s Garden Centres, said; “I am so pleased we are able to give this money to Greenfingers. It is an amazing charity which helps children and their families by creating beautiful and inspiring gardens and outdoor spaces at hospices across the country.”

 

Linda Petrons, Director of Fundraising and Communications at Greenfingers Charity, added; “On behalf of us all at Greenfingers Charity, I would like to say a heartfelt thank you to Sarah and the team at Squire’s for supporting our work once again. With seven Greenfingers gardens currently in the planning stages, this generous donation will go a long way to ensuring our work, creating well-designed and inspiring gardens in children’s hospices, will enable more life-limited children and their families to create precious outside memories together.”

 

Squire’s has donated the government’s carrier bag tax to Greenfingers Charity for the last five years. The carrier bag charge has now increased from 5p to 10p. Squire’s will continue to donate all proceeds from the carrier bag charge to Greenfingers Charity.  

Evergreen Garden Care launches mental health awareness initiatives across all channels

Throughout National Mental Health Awareness Week, Evergreen Garden Care employees had the opportunity to get hands-on making herb planters, take part in a live ‘Introduction to Mindfulness’ session and were encouraged to practice  ‘Shinrin Yoku’ – the Japanese art of Forest Bathing. A highlight of the week was a live session with Miracle-Gro ambassador and horticulturalist David Domoney, who delivered an online talk with 50 employees about the positive impact of plants and gardening on all aspects of mental wellness, and finished off with a horticultural Q&A session...


With 2.7 million new households having started gardening in 2020, we can see through the industry that the love for gardening is still growing – and part of this is due to the natural connection between gardening and health. From endorphins through exercise to the cortizole-lowering effects of being around plants, the benefits of gardening and nature are clear for our wellbeing.

 

Last week was National Mental Health Awareness Week (10th-16th May) and this year’s theme was ‘nature’ – and it is also the week that Evergreen Garden Care launched Thriving Minds, their internal programme to support the mental wellbeing of their colleagues. 

 

Throughout the week, Evergreen employees have had the opportunity to get hands-on making herb planters, take part in a live ‘Introduction to Mindfulness’ session and were encouraged to practice  ‘Shinrin Yoku’ – the Japanese art of Forest Bathing. 

 

A highlight of the week was a live session with Miracle-Gro ambassador and horticulturalist David Domoney, who delivered an online talk with 50 employees about the positive impact of plants and gardening on all aspects of mental wellness, and finished off with a horticultural Q&A session. 

 

The work doesn’t end there - Evergreen Garden Care now has 22 qualified Mental Health First Aiders and last week saw 24 managers attend a half-day mental health awareness session to ensure they have sufficient knowledge and skills to support their teams. There is also a confidential Employee Assistance Programme, where anyone who works for Evergreen Garden Care can talk to someone 24 hours a day, and access range of online resources.

 

Wendy Baines, HR Director at Evergreen Garden Care, is passionate about developing a culture that supports mental wellness, enabling people to be at their best, both inside and outside of the workplace. Wendy said: “This week’s activities have been really well supported and it has underlined the importance that people place on maintaining their mental wellbeing.

 

“One in four of us will experience poor mental health in any one year so we need to look after it in the same way that we look after our physical health. Thriving Minds is our commitment to colleagues that their health needs will always matter to us.”

 

Raising awareness for mental health hasn’t just been happening internally at Evergreen. Under their power brand Miracle-Gro they have collaborated this week with ex-footballer and mental health campaigner Wayne Bridge to launch a national Wellbeing campaign.

 

Inviting consumers to make a pledge through their website (www.lovethegarden.com), Miracle-Gro is challenging them to promise to spend more time outdoors and in nature – whether it’s 10 minutes a day outdoors or 20 minutes in your veggie patch. For the first 1,000 pledgers, they will receive a free Miracle-Gro Limited Edition Wellbeing Journal, packed with advice, activities, gardening inspiration and recipes.

 

The campaign has already reached national coverage on ITV 6 o’clock news, Sky Sports, across social media in collaboration with influencers and a wide range of radio stations, spreading the message about the importance of gardening and nature on our mental and physical health.

 

Mark Portman, MD of Evergreen Garden Care UK & Ireland said: “We put the care of people and our teams at the core of what we do and we are delighted to be supporting Mental Health Awareness Week through the launch of our Thriving Minds initiative for colleagues.

 

“The last 18 months have shone a light on the importance of good mental health and wellbeing, with so many of us having to manage our own personal challenges during Covid.  There are so many tremendous benefits from gardening, being close to nature and plants - we are all lucky to be working in such a wonderfully positive industry.”

 

Haskins Roundstone wins Garden Centre of the Year award

Haskins Garden Centre in Roundstone has won The Brighton Argus ‘Garden Centre of the Year 2021’ Award after being nominated by readers in the Sussex region...


Haskins Garden Centre in Roundstone has won The Brighton Argus ‘Garden Centre of the Year 2021’ Award after being nominated by readers in the Sussex region.

Haskins’ Roundstone centre in Littlehampton, West Sussex, was successful after going up against other centres in the area including Up Country Garden and Country Store, Staverton Nursery, ESK Plants, Lime Cross Nursery and Hailsham, in The Brighton Argus Local Garden Centre of the Year competition.

The Brighton Argus, a leading regional Sussex newspaper, asked members of the local community to nominate their favourite garden centre in the area throughout March. Readers were then given the chance to vote for the overall winner which was announced earlier this week.

Nick Joad, General Manager of Haskins Roundstone, said: “We’re absolutely thrilled to have won this award and to be recognised by our local community in this way. It wouldn’t have been possible to achieve this without our wonderful customers and of course, our dedicated team.

“This award reinforces the important role that garden centres play in our community and the pandemic has only made this more apparent.

“We are so grateful for the ongoing support that our community has shown us throughout the challenging past year. We strive to deliver excellent customer service and always look at ways we can continue improving our services for future generations to enjoy.”

Haskins Garden Centres is an independent family business that has five centres located in the south of England. Haskins’ centres include Ferndown (Dorset), West End (Southampton), Snowhill (West Sussex), Roundstone (West Sussex) and the newly acquired Forest Lodge (Farnham). Haskins also acquired Birdworld in Farnham, Surrey, in early 2020.

Roundstone celebrated its 20th anniversary back in December 2020.

St Peters creates ‘an adventure into nature and wildlife’

Tony Blake, founder of St Peters Garden Centre in Norton, Worcester, first dreamt about creating a wildlife area on the site back in 2012 when housing developments were quickly spreading in the local area. Last year, his son Will, now the Managing Director, began to make this a reality, and in May 2021, Poppy’s Farm will open for visitors...

 

Will Blake's two passions are the environment and his family – hence Poppy’s Farm, named after his daughter, and Oliver’s allotment, named after his son.


Tony Blake, founder of St Peters Garden Centre in Norton, Worcester, first dreamt about creating a wildlife area on the site back in 2012 when housing developments were quickly spreading in the local area. Last year, his son Will, now the Managing Director, began to make this a reality, and in May 2021, Poppy’s Farm will open for visitors.

 

Helped by Geoff Smith, who worked with Tony at St Peters back in the early 1990’s, Poppy’s Farm aims to provide local families with an adventure into nature and wildlife. Geoff has a wealth of knowledge and is passionate about planting species native to Britain. He has worked hard to create a diverse habitat hoping to attract a wide range of wildlife to the site.

 

Will with Poppy and Olie at Poppy’s Farm

 

The garden centre has had resident pygmy goats, Eric and Ernie, on-site for a couple of years and these have always provided a welcome attraction for visitors. In the next few weeks, they will be joined by rare-breed hens and miniature pigs.

 

Alongside the nature trail and animals, Tony and Geoff have planned and planted Oliver’s allotment where they are growing crops that will thrive throughout the year. They are also carrying out experiments to test the effectiveness of peat-free growing. Tony says: "It’s fantastic to see my dreams come to life and I have loved getting involved with the allotment, there is nothing quite as satisfying as growing your own."

 

Geoff watering 

 

Also onsite is Poppy’s Café serving a range of homemade cakes and barista coffee along with with ‘grab and go’ style picnic lunches which can be enjoyed in the new Lakeside Hide, or around the lake. Keeping it in the family, St Peters use Yallah Coffee - a roastery owned by Will’s brother whose ethical coffee is already popular with customers in St Peters main restaurant, The Potting Shed.

 

Finally, there is a beautiful hand-crafted yurt that will provide a fantastic event space for classes and clubs, as well providing a wonderful setting in which to enjoy a vintage afternoon tea.

 

St Peters goats, Eric and Ernie

 

Will’s two passions are the environment and his family - hence the names Poppy’s Farm, named after his daughter, and Oliver’s allotment, named after his son.

 

Will says: "It’s frightening how our native species are finding it harder and harder to find natural habitats so anything we can do to help them is worth it. I have loved working with Geoff and learning about the small steps we can all take to do our bit for our precious environment. We’ve got a long way to go in undoing the damage we have done to the planet and we can’t all be perfect but there are little things we can all do to help make a positive difference."

 

Poppy’s Café across the lake

 

Poppy’s Farm opened on Friday (May 14) and is free to visit. 

 

Details of Poppy’s Farm can be found here https://www.stpetersgardencentre.co.uk/poppysfarm.

 
How Primeur’s Tierra Verde planters are driving profitability

Virtually indestructible, sustainable, self-watering and trend-led design – it’s not hard to see why Primeur’s multi-award-winning Tierra Verde planters are proving so popular with garden retailers up and down the country...


 

Virtually indestructible, sustainable, self-watering and trend-led design – it’s not hard to see why Primeur’s multi-award-winning Tierra Verde planters are proving so popular with garden retailers up and down the country.

 

With the peak selling season incoming quickly, Primeur is reminding retailers of the key benefits of this ever-popular product offering.

 

Sustainable material

Long before the Covid-19 pandemic, consumers were demanding more from their products, with a particular emphasis on sustainable products and those that looked to support environmental protection. Primeur’s Tierra Verde offering has always been built on similar values; values which have been setting the benchmark in innovative material usage within the garden retail sector.

 

Every year over 2.5 billion tyres are produced worldwide, each one replacing a tyre which has reached the end of its lifecycle. Until now most of these end-of-life tyres would have been made into rubber crumb for use in children’s play and athletic surfaces, or sadly headed to landfill where they would take over 80 years to decompose. However, a fresh look at this rubber crumb material – 6kgs from every tyre – has opened up many uses while shining a light on the significant benefits beyond reducing waste within landfill.

 

Since 2017 Primeur has helped to repurpose more than 5,000,000 tyres every year, giving these recycled materials a second lease of life in the nation’s gardens as Tierra Verde planters as well as stepping-stones, garden borders and deck tiles.

 

Virtually indestructible – good for consumers & stock control

While recycled rubber helps to relieve the burden of waste tyres on the environment, the material’s flexibility and durability offers a host of USPs that retailers can take advantage of to drive sales.

 

Unlike some traditional non-frost proof containers, recycled rubber planters won’t crack in sub-zero temperatures, or smash if displays topple due to strong winds or accident-prone shoppers. Consumers also love the fact that recycled rubber is mould and mildew resistant, therefore eliminating the tedious and messy chore of scrubbing green algae from containers or blasting it away using a pressure washer. Because rubber is a softer alternative to glazed or Terracotta containers, it’s a safer option to use in gardens where children and pets play, whilst the material can tackle even the most vigorous impact of lawnmowers and nylon cord trimmers.

 

Jenny Douthwaite, Sales Director at Primeur, said: “Reducing stock wastage is always of paramount importance for retailers so it is reassuring to know that our Tierra Verde range will look good no matter what is thrown at it.  Being virtually indestructible, the risk of product being damaged on the shop floor is significantly reduced, whilst the durability of recycled rubber is helping retailers to ensure that 100% of an order will go through the tills without any stock ending up in the skip.”

 

Self-watering

In addition to appealing to consumers with its strong environmental credentials, Tierra Verde also offers peace of mind regarding watering thanks to its innovative self-watering system – perfect for time poor gardeners or those that have a track record for under watering their greenery!

 

Featuring a self-watering base, the in-built reservoir collects excess water, preventing wastage due to run-off, and provides a handy moisture resource that plant roots can gradually take up as and when required.

 

The smart design allows Tierra Verde planters to be used in the home as well – bringing the outdoors inside – while eliminating the danger of water escaping and damaging carpets or flooring. This enhances the containers’ appeal to gardeners who are keen to grow tender or exotic plants outdoors during the warmer months but bring them into the house or a conservatory for protection during winter, without the danger of water leaking from the base.

 

Trend-led design

Planters they may be but that doesn’t mean Primeur’s Tierra Verde offering fails to move with the times. From sleek contemporary settings to traditional gardens, all the planters in the collection offer flexible design options no matter the backdrop. For the 2021 season, Primeur has drawn inspiration from the current trend which merges the lines between indoors and outdoors, with grey a central colour of this theme.

 

New designs include the 15cm Octavia Planter which provides a smaller size option within this popular planter collection, perfect for pairing with herbs, alpines and indoor planters to drive impulse and gift purchases. The best-selling Sonata range will see the introduction of two new trough planters in response to consumer demand for more ways to dress windows, tabletops and to boost small-scale grow-your-own projects. At 71cm wide and standing at 50cm high, the larger trough will be a commanding planter in any garden setting, whilst the smaller trough (61cm wide x 15cm high) will provide the ideal solution for window boxes and herb gardens alike.

 

Secure your stock now

Primeur is pleased to report that its UK-based stock holding means its product availability remains at an all-time high. Having brought product into the country much earlier than normal, the company has been able to respond to the rise in consumer demand and ensure that retailers are armed with stock throughout the season.

 

Tierra Verde planters can be supplied fully stocked and merchandised on a pallet sized flat-bed table. Simply locate within the store and allow the POS to do the sales work for you. Each display can include multiple SKUs, with easy replenishment options.

 

To ensure you don’t miss out on this thriving sales opportunity be sure to secure your Tierra Verde stock now. To find out more please contact the team on 01274 518800 or email sales@primeur.ltd.uk

 
Southern Trident announces charity partnership with Child Rights and You (CRY UK)

Southern Trident has joined hands with Child Rights and You (CRY), India’s most trusted NGO which works directly with and for underprivileged children in India at grassroots level to bring about lasting change...


Following its continued market success, Southern Trident has joined hands with Child Rights and You (CRY), India’s most trusted NGO which works directly with and for underprivileged children in India at grassroots level to bring about lasting change.

 

CRY is on a mission to ensure children supported by its projects have access to free and quality education, proper healthcare and nutrition, and are protected from violence, abuse and exploitation including child labour, child marriage, and child trafficking. It also aims to reduce the incidence of child malnutrition and make sure children’s voices are recognized in issues that affect them. In its 42 years of relentless commitment, CRY has impacted over 3 million children across more than 700 effective grassroots partnerships.

 

Speaking about this corporate partnership, Balaji Manoharan, Founding Director at Southern Trident said: “There are a lot of similarities between tending to a plant and a child. Both need genuine care and come with a lot of responsibility. This is the underlying synergy between us and CRY UK as an organization. We wanted to share all the warmth we continue to receive from our customers here in the UK. The communities CRY works with are very deserving recipients of this love and care. The partnership has been thoughtfully designed in such a way that the consumer is directly a part of this giving. We hope to recreate the success and positive impact we have had with our peat free products in this partnership with CRY UK.”

 

Steve Harper, Southern Trident’s CEO further added “As a business that has developed from its links with India we wanted to give back and do our part to support those in need where we can. The business is incredibly proud of the fact that as we continue to grow, with every sale of our Coco & Coir products we might also help a child to prosper and have a brighter future.”

 

Southern Trident will be making a direct contribution to CRY for the sale of each Coco & Coir box. Consumers can find more information about Southern Trident’s link with CRY on the back of packs of our retail Coco & Coir growing media range in almost 200 garden centres across the UK.

 

“At CRY, we reach the most vulnerable children, and help them along a path that leads to a better tomorrow. We are truly grateful to Southern Trident for joining CRY and the children it serves on this crucial journey”, Ram Saradchandra Kumar, Chairperson CRYUK Board of Trustees added.

 

Southern Trident is a UK company with strong roots in India which offers high quality coir based growing medium direct from source to market in a fully Southern Trident managed seamless operation, through its brand Coco & Coir. Sustainability is at the heart of its foundation and at the core of its philosophy lies the unshakeable belief that the coconut is the perfect crop that will work for the consumer, the environment and meet the aims of the strongly held company values – green today, greener tomorrow.

 

For more information on Child Rights and You (CRY UK) please follow this link: http://uk.cry.org/

 

To book an appointment with your local sales representative please click: https://southerntrident.com/sales-agents/

 
Namgrass reveals eco-friendly artificial grass

Namgrass, the UK’s leading artificial grass company, has announced the launch of its new eco-friendly artificial grass products enriched with Pureti. Known for its air quality improvement and sustainable elements, Pureti coated Namgrass is now available across all grasses within the company’s product line...


 

Namgrass, the UK’s leading artificial grass company, has announced the launch of its new eco-friendly artificial grass products enriched with Pureti. Known for its air quality improvement and sustainable elements, Pureti coated Namgrass is now available across all grasses within the company’s product line.

 

One of just three licensed distributors in the UK, the product’s arrival comes at a time when the UK’s air pollution is being monitored daily during the COVID-19 pandemic. A Pureti treated metre squared of Namgrass is comparable to the air purifying effects of one mature tree planted. Taking this into account plus the fact that the UK’s average garden size is 50m2, Pureti offers the same CO2 equivalent that planting 50 trees in a family back garden would achieve.

 

Namgrass products have long been designed and manufactured to make them hard-wearing easy to clean and able to withstand heavy garden use. The addition of a Pureti treated surface means consumers will benefit from a reduction in dust, grime, mould, or algae build up, leading to an elimination of odours and a significant improvement in outdoor air quality.

 

Jared Gardner, Sales Director at Namgrass, commented: “Cutting edge technology has always been at the heart of the Namgrass brand and we are delighted to be able to now offer a sustainable solution to artificial grass across our range. One long lasting application of Pureti will save time, money, water, chemicals, and energy which in turn helps to cultivate a sustainable cleaner environment and reverse the pollution levels on our planet.”

 

To find out more about Pureti coating, visit Namgrass.co.uk.

DJ Turfcare confirmed for Glee 2021

DJ Turfcare has confirmed it will be attending the return of the in-person garden retail exhibition, Glee, this September (14th-16th September, NEC Birmingham)...


 

DJ Turfcare has confirmed it will be attending the return of the in-person garden retail exhibition, Glee, this September (14th-16th September, NEC Birmingham).

 

Visitors to the DJ Turfcare stand will be able to view the company’s full offering of RHS-endorsed, organic-based fertilisers including the ever-popular MO Bacter and Recovery, as well as the recently launched Autumn Lawn Treatment and Lawn Boost, which are designed to further extend the lawn care sales season into autumn and spring respectively.

 

Trade shows remain an important part of DJ Turfcare’s marketing mix, as the company’s David Jenkins explains. “Whilst business has been thriving, we have really felt the absence of exhibitions. There is no substitute for face-to-face interaction with our customers, as it provides us with the opportunity to drill down into the technical detail of our products and answer questions as they occur.

 

“During the last 12 months we have added two exciting new product innovations to our offering and the response has been extremely positive, but we know that there is still a pool of retailers that are yet to benefit from our latest additions. We believe that we will meet many of these new customers – as well as our existing customer base - at Glee in a few short months and are very excited about this prospect. We have every confidence that the organisers of Glee and the NEC will ensure a safe and secure return to live shows, and we are happy to support this reopening.”

 

DJ Turfcare specialises in organic lawn care products to be used commercially and at home. The RHS-endorsed range includes six chemical-free fertilisers - MO Bacter Organic Lawn Fertiliser, MO Bacter Instant, Bio-Lime, Recovery, and the newly introduced Lawn Boost and Autumn Lawn Treatment.

 

Find out more

To start stocking DJ Turfcare’s latest offering or to top-up your latest order, please contact the team by calling (01483 200976) or by visiting  www.djturfcare.co.uk

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

Dobbies hosts bee-rilliant virtual event with Neal’s Yard Remedies to celebrate World Bee Day

Dobbies is marking World Bee Day  (May 20) with a virtual event hosted by natural and organic health and beauty company, Neal’s Yard Remedies...


 

Dobbies is marking World Bee Day  (May 20) with a virtual event hosted by natural and organic health and beauty company, Neal’s Yard Remedies.

 

Following on from the recent launch of their #sustainabledobbies campaign, the experts at Dobbies Garden Centres are teaming up with Neal’s Yard Remedies in this virtual event, to share top tips on making your garden a bee-friendly haven. Bees are one of the most vital elements of our eco-system, but with several species now in decline, it’s more important than ever that we all play our part to support these precious pollinators, and World Bee Day serves as a timely reminder to celebrate their significance in our daily lives.

 

The virtual event will start at 7pm on 20 May, and will be hosted by Tipper Lewis, Brand Ambassador for Neal’s Yard Remedies. Tipper will provide attendees with top tips on the best blooms for bees, and share advice on how to maximise a garden’s ‘pollen power’, so that everyone can play their part in creating a sanctuary for bees in their gardens this summer.

 

Tipper will also introduce guests to Neal’s Yard Remedies’ Bee Lovely product range, which is lovingly crafted with ingredients such as honey and beeswax. Every purchase from the Bee Lovely collection helps to support bees across the world, with a percentage of each purchase donated to bee-friendly charities. Lucky attendees will also be given the chance to experience the range for themselves too, with the opportunity to win one of five Bee Lovely ‘Head to Toe’ gift sets during the event.

 

Alongside this, Tipper will be on hand to answer any questions viewers may have, including advice on the best blooms and bushes to plant to attract bees, and how to ensure that gardening techniques are sustainable and bee-friendly at every turn.

 

Tipper Lewis, Brand Ambassador for Neal’s Yard Remedies, said: “Bees are hugely vital to so many things in our daily lives, from the food we eat to the flowers in our gardens and even the skincare we use. The team at Neal’s Yard Remedies and I are very excited to share our knowledge, passion and love for bees of all kinds with Dobbies’ customers, and we hope they’ll enjoy learning more about them as we celebrate World Bee Day.”

 

The Neal’s Yard Remedies expert event is part of a series of free virtual events that Dobbies is hosting this Spring. Following a successful programme of Facebook Live sessions in 2020, they provide a virtual alternative to regular events usually hosted instore. Further events have already been announced for the coming weeks, including a virtual event on roses, Britain’s favourite flower, hosted by Dobbies’ Horticulture Director, Marcus Eyles. Advance booking is essential for the virtual events, which are hosted on Microsoft Teams, making it quick and simple for viewers to log on and join in the event from the comfort of their homes.

 

The sessions are free of charge and exclusively available to Dobbies Club members. For those who aren’t yet members of Dobbies Club, membership is free and signing up is quick and simple, giving access to a variety of benefits, special offers and exclusive events. To sign up visit dobbies.com

 

To sign up for the Dobbies virtual event with Neal’s Yard Remedies, visit https://www.dobbies.com/content/events.html

National Children’s Gardening Week partners with Peppa Pig & Regatta Great Outdoors for Save the Children

National Children’s Gardening Week is teaming up with Peppa Pig, Regatta Great Outdoors, and Save the Children to inspire children and families to get outside and enjoy gardening...


National Children’s Gardening Week is teaming up with Peppa Pig, Regatta Great Outdoors, and Save the Children to inspire children and families to get outside and enjoy gardening.


National Children’s Gardening Week takes place 29th May – 6th June to promote the health, wellbeing and educational benefits of gardening.

 

This year, Peppa Pig, and her friends are sharing their top tips for having fun in the great outdoors, whilst at the same time raising money for Save the Children to help children around the world grow up healthy and happy.


A brand-new Peppa Pig themed activity booklet has been created, which is jam-packed with fun and creative ways for children to explore the world around them and discover the magic of gardening.


As well as encouraging children to explore and enjoy nature, the Peppa Pig booklets are also raising much-needed funds for Save the Children.  Since the start of the coronavirus pandemic, millions of children have fallen behind with their learning and missed out on playing with others which is vital for their mental, social and emotional development.  The money raised by National Children’s Gardening Week will help ensure that all children have the opportunity to learn, play and flourish, so they can grow up to be who they want to be.


The limited-edition activity packs will be available to collect from participating garden retailers during National Children’s Gardening Week, with a suggested donation of £1 going to Save the Children.  To find out more and where your nearest participating garden centre is, please visit: www.childrensgardeningweek.co.uk/peppapig/


To donate to Save the Children, please go to www.justgiving.com/campaign/nationalchildrensgardeningweek2021


Join in and encourage your little ones to get creative, have fun and explore the world around them!

 
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Pots of Sustainability in RHS Chelsea Sustainable Gardening Product of the Year

Ocean Plastic Pots, made from discarded rope and fishing net in the UK, have been announced as the winners of the first-ever RHS Chelsea Sustainable Garden Product of the Year Award...


Ocean Plastic Pots, made from discarded rope and fishing net in the UK, have been announced as the winners of the first-ever RHS Chelsea Sustainable Garden Product of the Year Award.

 

This years RHS Chelsea Flower Show annual Garden Product of the Year was judged against a criteria that considers the products’ green credentials.

 

All the items, which are listed in full below and include a composting toilet, plant pots made from recycled ocean waste and an innovative green wall system, will be on display at RHS Chelsea Flower Show in September.

 

Judges considered carbon footprint, durability, how well the products biodegrade and if it they are recylable as well as design innovation, functionality and quality.

 

The shortlist was assessed by a team of experts including entrepreneur and Dragons’ Den investor Deborah Meaden and chaired up by sustainability expert Chris Harrop OBE.

 

He said: “This year’s shortlist shows manufacturers are bringing to market sustainable new products that address the challenges  facing us all; climate change, plastics and pollution and the need to ensure products are ethically sourced whilst still allowing consumers to enjoy their love of gardening in all its forms.”

 

The 2021 contenders
Dalefoot Composts – Wool compost with comfrey
Addressing the serious issues surrounding the use of peat and the drive to use peat-free alternatives, the Dalefoot Wool Compost with Comfrey champions an alternative peat-free media with a blend of comfrey, bracken and sheep’s wool sourced only from the UK to offer gardeners a sustainable option to their growing. 

www.dalefootcomposts.co.uk
 
Distinctive Garden – DuraOcean® Chair

Distinctive Garden – DuraOcean® ChairDuraOcean® is the UK’s first commercially available chair made exclusively from 3.5kgs of recycled ocean plastic waste including fishing nets and ropes.

www.distinctivegarden.co.uk
 
Gaze Burvill – Woodland Low Oval Table

Gaze Burvill - Woodland low oval tableInspired by the Sweet Chestnut tree and crafted in the UK, the Woodland Low Oval Table takes its template from nature making each piece as unique as the tree that it came from.

www.gazeburvill.com
 
Green Oak – Compost Loo
Green Oak - Compost LooGreen Oak’s Composting Loo provides a basic yet fundamental function. The readily transportable frame is made from pine and offers a low-water alternative to public toilets and an environmentally friendly option for allotments and community gardens. 
  
Ocean Plastic Pots – Ocean Plastic Pots
Ocean Plastic PotsOcean Plastic Pots are plant pots made from discarded rope and fishing net. Manufactured in the UK, they've developed a circular economy product that raises awareness of the ocean plastic problem.

www.oceanplasticpots.com
 
Growing Revolution – PlantBox
PlantBox modular living wallPlantBox is designed to bring walls to life and life to walls. This cleverly simple, modular and stackable vertical garden system is manufactured in the UK from 100% recycled materials.

www.growingrevolution.com
 
Platts Horticulture – Husqvarna Automower 405X
Husqvarna Automower 405XHigh-performance, yet easy to use robotic lawnmower suited for smaller lawns, handling both narrow passages and slopes up to 40% with perfect results. All while producing zero carbon emissions. Supplied and installed by Platts Horticulture.

www.plattshorticulture.co.uk 
 
Sneeboer Trading BV – Maintenance Kit
The Sneeboer Maintenance KitThe Sneeboer Maintenance Kit keeps all quality hand-forged stainless steel tools in perfect condition no matter the garden soil types and conditions. It helps prolong the life of your garden tools, helping cut down on waste.

www.sneeboer.co.uk
  
twool – Twool Naked
Twool Naked garden twineTwool naked is a naturally coloured British wool garden twine giving the strength and durability required of an all-round garden twine together with the aesthetics of blending naturally and harmoniously with planting.

www.twool.co.uk

 

Vegepod UK – Vegebag

The new Vegebag by Vegepod has been improved to incorporate wicking bed and water reservoir technologies into a compact sized fully contained grow bag. 

www.vegepod.co.uk

 

 

 
Double the fun at Grimsby Garden Centre

While the nation welcomes the return of eateries across the country this week, it’s double the fun at Grimsby Garden Centre where the return of fond foodie favourites alongside a new look café…


While the nation welcomes the return of eateries across the country this week, it’s double the fun at Grimsby Garden Centre where the return of fond foodie favourites alongside a new look café…with a new name.

 

The Potting Shed officially opened its wood clad doors on Monday 17 May 2021.

 

The team at the centre have used the lockdown period to totally transform the café space, doubling its size and introducing Scandinavian style outdoor booths, garden and children’s play area.

 

It is the first phase in the garden centre’s redevelopment which will see the introduction of an eco-green barn and the creation of a bespoke independent shipping container shopping hub.

 

 

Grimsby Garden Centre manager Craig Champion said: “We’re really looking forward to welcoming people to the new Potting Shed – both familiar faces as well as new people eager to meet family and friends over tea, coffee and a cake or two.”

 

Alongside lattes, espressos, a flat white or a cup of tea and a slice of cake; The Potting Shed gives much more than a cuppa.

 

Both The Potting Shed and Grimsby Garden Centre are owned by NHS mental health services provider NAViGO.

 

Turning profit for good, proceeds go back into supporting mental health services across North East Lincolnshire. Plus, the garden centre complex also offers training and employment opportunities to people from disadvantaged backgrounds and individuals with mental health difficulties.

 

Jo Keen, head of commercial services at NAViGO said: “Not only do we serve great food and drink in lovely, relaxed surroundings; but when you buy from us, you are also helping to support people in your local community with mental health difficulties.

 

“The last year has been extremely difficult for everyone. Being Loyal to Local has never been more important.”

Open to all ages, the friendly venue offers take-out drinks and cakeaway or eat-in options with a range of toasties, sandwiches, classics, beverages and cakes while helping raise the visibility of mental health support services in the community.

 

While emergency services, NHS, North East Lincolnshire Council and armed forces employees benefit from a 10% discount on production of appropriate identification.

 

And if you’re part of the RNLI lifeboat crew you can have a free hot drink or a brew, when you’ve been out on a shout.

 

Put simply, The Potting Shed is good food, good drink, doing good.

 
Solar lights up sales

While plant sales were down by 10% on the same week in 2019, garden product sales were almost on a par at just 1% down with decorative items, including solar garden lights, adding to the high volumes of plant feeds being sold...


 

While plant sales were down by 10% on the same week in 2019, garden product sales were almost on a par at just 1% down with decorative items, including solar garden lights, adding to the high volumes of plant feeds being sold.

 

Highlights of the week were:

  • Smart Solar GloBugs Pendants were the highest chart re-entry at No 12.
  • Smart Solar Party Black Flaming Torch, pack of 5 climbed furthest up the GTN Top 50 to No 21.
  • Woodlodge’s Small Bumblebee Planter was the highest new entry of the week at No 32.

 

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.

 
Johnsons adds to seed range for the 2022 season

Eighteen new flower and vegetable varieties have been introduced to the main Johnsons Seeds collection for the coming season. Exclusive Echinacea Paradiso Super-Duper leads the flower offering...


Eighteen new flower and vegetable varieties have been introduced to the main Johnsons Seeds collection for the coming season. 

 

Exclusive Echinacea Paradiso Super-Duper leads the flower offering - with an RRP of £2.85 for 10 seeds, the highly unusual blooms double as they mature, for an eye-catching display. 

 

Larkspur Fancy Belladonna (RRP £2.40 for 300 seeds) is another exclusive for Johnsons this coming season. The annual cousin of the delphinium, these tall upright plants produce elegant stems covered with ornate pretty coloured flowers.

 

Single coloured California Poppy Lady Marmalade has delicately fluted petals and thrives on even the poorest soil. This quick and easy to grow annual has an RRP of £2.40 for 300 seeds. Cosmos Candyfloss Red (RRP £2.65 for 60 seeds) is a versatile compact variety, ideal for smaller borders or patio containers. Trials have shown it to flower much earlier than many other cosmos types. Limonium Pink Pokers, a half hardy annual with long lasting blooms, is a great flower for cutting and drying. Each packet contains 500 seeds and has an RRP of £2.20.

 

Unusual Poppy Paeony Lilac Pompom (RRP £2.40 for 750 seeds) has dramatically tousled, double flowers and is an ideal filler for mixed border displays. The seed pods also provide winter interest once the flowers have disappeared. Sisyrinchium Moody Blues, also known as ‘Blue Eyed Grass’, is a semi-evergreen grass-like flowering plant providing stunning displays for the front of borders. RRP £2.40 for 20 seeds. The final new flower for Johnsons is Trachelium Black Knight (RRP £3.65 for 15 seeds), a half hardy perennial, with fast growing upright plants topped with domed, lightly scented flower heads. This variety creates lovely interest in mixed borders or as cut flowers.

 

New to the vegetable selection is Aubergine Jewel Marble F1 (RRP £3.65 for 10 seeds). Ideal for patio pots it’s a compact variety with plants that produce lots of useful sized fruits with excellent flavour. Johnsons Beetroot Mixed provides a great range of coloured roots, each colour providing a subtly different flavour. The delicious young leaves can also be used – RRP £2.40 for 250 seeds. Another colourful variety, Carrot Harlequin F1 (RRP £2.85 for 500 seeds) is incredibly easy to grow, for deliciously healthy snacks, cooked dishes and salads. A mix of colours, each with a slightly different taste.

 

Carrot Nerac F1 is a top quality ‘James Scarlet Intermediate’ type. Reliable and productive, it performs exceptionally well in a wide range of soils and conditions. Each packet has 350 seeds and an RRP of £2.85. Another high quality variety, Leek Autora F1 (RRP £3.65 for 30 seeds) is a delicious autumn/winter type producing high yields of easy to clean leeks. With excellent disease resistance it’s also suitable for growing in any region and soil type. New Lettuce Little Gem (Pasatiempo) is a real favourite, with exceptional vigour and crisp, tight heads and a sweet flavour. Ideal for smaller spaces it has an RRP of £2.65 for 500 seeds.

 

Spinach (Climbing) Malabar (RRP £2.20 for 50 seeds) is popular for its great flavour and productivity in hot summers when spinach usually struggles. Leaves are succulent and can be used in the same way as traditional spinach. New Squash Mashed Potato does exactly what it says on the tin! A low calorie alternative to traditional mashed potatoes, the vigorous plants produce squashes with tasty nutritious flesh. RRP £3.10 for 10 seeds.

 

Johnsons has added two new varieties to its pea and bean category. Broad Bean Bartek – RRP £2.85 for 50 seeds – is a mid-early variety which is productive and reliable. The full flavoured beans are ideally suited to freezing for later use. Pea Ruselago (RRP £3.10 for 250 seeds) is downy and powdery mildew resistant. The productive plants produce a generous amount of easy to pick pods, each filled with sweet and tasty peas.

 

The Sarah Raven range from Johnsons offers two new varieties for 2022. Stylish Agrostemma Milas White Queen is one of Sarah’s favourite summer plants in her white garden at Sissinghurst. A white corncockle type, this easy to grow flower is also perfect for cutting. Each packet has an RRP of £2.65 for 250 seeds. Anchusa Blue Angel (RRP £2.65 for 50 seeds) is ideal for the wildlife garden but just as striking in patio pots. With stunningly blue and edible flowers, it will self seed happily.

 

Microgreens remain as popular as ever for a quick and easy way to add colour and flavour to any meal, all from a kitchen windowsill. Helen Clayton, Brand Manger for Johnsons commented: “We have continued to see excellent sales of our microgreens seeds and seed based kits over the last few seasons. During the last year in particular, people have been looking for different ways to keep occupied and many have enjoyed growing from seed for the first time. Microgreens are perfect for new gardeners as they provide harvests quickly, without the need for outside growing spaces.”

 

New for 2022, Johnsons has extended their microgreens seed range, introducing eight new varieties, providing added interest and more unusual flavours:

  • Basil Lemon has an incredible basil flavour with a fresh lemon twist.
  • Basil Red is rich in colour and flavour, delicious in Mediterranean dishes.
  • Chervil has a tangy and bright anise flavour, perfect for soups and salads.
  • Chicory has mild, non-bitter leaves and is a great addition to salads and sandwiches.
  • Mizuna Red is mildly spicy and a favourite for noodles and soups.
  • Mustard Oriental produces great looking, full-flavoured spicy leaves.
  • Pak Choi has tender leaves and adds interest to salads and stir-fries.
  • Spinach Komatsuna is a favourite in Eastern cooking, with oriental leaves and a tangy spinach flavour.

All are ready to harvest within a month and have RRPs from £2.65 to £3.65.


Johnsons is offering a new style hot spot stand for the 2022 season which presents all 16 microgreens seed packets on hooks, along with space to display 36 growing trays. 

 

To find out more about the Johnsons range, log on at www.johnsons-trade.com or telephone 01638 554111.

 

 

 

 
How to reduce plastic waste in the garden

The energy experts at money.co.uk have researched and revealed seven tips for cutting down on plastics in the garden...


 

The energy experts at money.co.uk have researched and revealed seven tips for cutting down on plastics in the garden.

 

They suggest using terracotta pots instead of plastic ones and using biodegradable seed trays to help reduce plastic use. 

 

Gardening can generate a lot of plastic waste as it’s found in almost every aspect of the hobby. Whether it be seed trays, plant pots, compost bags, plastic labels, plastic cloches, or propagators, we are all surrounded by it in our gardens. 

 

Unfortunately, a lot of this plastic won’t make it into the recycling bin, and it can take hundreds of years to degrade.  

 

It’s easier than you think to start making the switch and reduce your plastic use going forward, and many companies now sell pots, fencing and furniture made from recycled wood and plastic.

 

Ben Gallizzi, an energy expert at money.co.uk said: “As a country, we should be doing all we can to bring our plastic consumption down. 

 

“Plastic is extremely useful in the garden because it’s light, flexible and durable against the elements. In most gardens, the use of plastic is widespread. But if you reuse where possible, and question every bit of plastic that comes into your garden, you should be able to reduce your single-use plastic consumption outdoors.

 

“We should all buy recycled plastic or biodegradable products where we can.”

 

Here are money.co.uk’s tips on how to reduce plastic waste in your garden.

 

  1. Use terracotta pots instead of plastic ones

Terracotta pots are more environmentally friendly than plastic alternatives, as they are more porous and able to break down over time quicker than plastic.

 

If you are going to use plastic pots, then we’d recommend sourcing ones made out of recycled plastic. 

 

You can also upcycle broken pots, and just because they’re broken doesn’t mean they can’t still be used, so why not embrace the imperfections? Plant pot shards are easy to repurpose - for example, you can place them in larger pots to protect the soil from unwelcome pests.

 

  1. Use biodegradable seed trays and pots

Garden centres and homeware stores will have racks of plastic seed trays with clear plastic lids and they’re usually cheap too – but this doesn’t mean you should buy them. Egg boxes work just as well, and so do shallow cardboard boxes. Loo rolls also make excellent starting seed pods for larger seeds and tall plants like broad beans, runner beans and sunflowers.

 

  1. Make your own potting compost

By starting your own compost heap, you won’t have to buy plastic bags of it. You could use shredded paper, stale food, coffee grounds and more to help create your own compost. 

 

  1. Check all gardening accessories

When buying plants, check that the plants are wrapped in paper materials and not plastic. Read the small print to check when buying online.

 

Laminated or sticky labels are often used in the garden to help identify plants, but wooden lollipop sticks or writing on old shards of terracotta pots can be used to create handy plant labels.

 

It’s also good practice to use natural twine to tie back your plants and this is 100% biodegradable. 

 

  1. Make your own plant feed and bug repellents

To save buying more plastic bottles for insect repellent, you should think about making homemade garden sprays. These can be made out of things you probably already have in the house, such as dish soap, cooking oil, garlic and vinegar. A homemade formula made from vegetable oil mixed with a mild soap can help repel troublesome insects.

  

  1. Use a metal watering can

This is a pretty obvious one, but a metal watering can might last a lifetime, whereas plastic cans tend to be cheaper and are generally not that durable.

 

  1. Use metal or wooden tools

Next time you have to purchase new garden tools, consider metal or wood ones instead of plastic. They might be more expensive, but they’ll likely last longer and will prevent you from having to throw more plastic away in the long run.

 
Another amazing growing media performance

Even thoough plant sales and garden product sales were down versus the same week last year, growing media sales were up. Not by the same high percentatges we’ve seen so far this year, but still 2.5% up, which taking into account the unseasonal weather is yet another amazing performance...


 

Even thoough plant sales and garden product sales were down versus the same week last year, growing media sales were up. Not by the same high percentatges we’ve seen so far this year, but still 2.5% up, which taking into account the unseasonal weather is yet another amazing performance.

 

Highlights of the week were:

  • Westland New Horizon Veg Compost 50 litres was the Growing Media chart’s highest climber, up 24 places to No 10.
  • Growth Technology Orchid Focus Repotting Mix Peat Free 3 litres was the highest re-entry at No 39.
  • Deco-Pak’s Alpine Gold Grit was a new entry at No 49.

 

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.

 
Sanctuaries Garden, Terrace & Balcony. Trends and new products for the outdoor season from spoga + gafa

The worldwide pandemic is causing the garden industry to boom. And so trends and innovations are finding their way into people's own outdoor spaces in these times too. The offer ranges from comfortable outdoor furniture, to smart garden appliances, through to fully-equipped outdoor kitchens – a glance at the current garden lifestyle trends and themes...


As the largest garden lifestyle trade fair in the world, spoga+gafa occupies itself with the new products of the green industry year after year. The focus here is on fresh ideas and pioneering garden lifestyle solutions. Where for over sixty years the DIY stores, garden centres, barbecue retailers and furniture markets from all over the world have been buying their seasonal products, there is - due to the pandemic - a yawning emptiness in the fourteen halls that are normally filled to the brim with gardens.Themes like garden work, closeness to nature or sustainability particularly gain significance in times like these. More than ever, the outdoors serves as a place of refuge. And instead of annual holidays, people are investing in beautifying their gardens, terraces and balconies. The worldwide pandemic is causing the garden industry to boom. And so trends and innovations are finding their way into people's own outdoor spaces in these times too. The offer ranges from comfortable outdoor furniture, to smart garden appliances, through to fully-equipped outdoor kitchens – a glance at the current garden lifestyle trends and themes.

Open-air living-room: The garden as a cosy place of retreat

Garden work has turned to the future: After sowing seeds, growth and blossoms follow. This confidence can help styling one's life especially today. As a place of creation and regeneration, the garden is therefore playing an ever-increasingly important role – whether for the gardeners and plants, togetherness or for recreation and taking a break from the home office and home schooling. The pandemic has accelerated a trend that was already on the advance beforehand, namely turning the outdoor area into a "green living-room". The borders between indoors and out are merging and the furniture items for both areas hardly differ from each other. Sweeping and unusually low sofas, armchairs and daybeds are taking the terrace by storm. Freely combinable lounge furniture offers plenty of space outdoors for getting together and can be expanded in a modular way. Extendable tables, benches and chairs with a higher sitting position enable relaxed dining in the open air. And the home office can also be relocated outdoors today thanks to comfortable and weatherproof home furniture.

"Green living": Nature as a source of inspiration

The desire for a healthy, close-to-nature lifestyle has not just grown since the Corona outbreak. Plants promote health and create an environment for well-being. Gardening and growing one's own herbs and vegetables are in vogue. Raised flowerbeds, mini greenhouses and plant shelves are becoming increasingly popular in both the outdoor and indoor gardening sector. Naturalness is also the motto of many items of garden furniture and accessories for the current season. As authentic materials, natural wood, rattan or linen convey a closeness to nature as well as muted and natural shades. This spans through to the processing. For example, for teak furniture almost the entire tree trunk is used to lend chairs or tables a natural look. Plastic plant pots made in a rugged natural stone design or fibreglass rain tanks and sunshade stands in wooden optic also convey a natural touch.

Go Green: The garden is becoming more sustainable

Today, many people use "green" products to express a more conscious lifestyle. The sustainable garden is thus a key theme of spoga+gafa. Because more and more companies from the industry are placing importance on sustainability for their new products. For example, the manufacturers of outdoor furniture or plant pots are increasingly producing new models from recycled materials. Old wood from huts or boats and recycled plastic from oceans and households are being used as well as textile and organic residual materials. The collections are called "Green Basics", "Greenline" or "Go Green" and as such their names already make reference to their "green" production based on these material-saving concepts. More and more recycled products are themselves also 100 percent recyclable to ensure a closed material cycle. The demand is growing because in the course of the climate discussion a more conscious way of living has developed into an ongoing trend.

Less is more: New lightness in design

The times are heavy enough, so it is nice to be able to take things a little more lightly in the garden. A lot of outdoor furniture is becoming streamlined, airy and more filigree. Less opulence, instead the design is determined by its no-frill appearance - not as reduced austerity, but indeed as nonchalant elegance. Bright blue, red and orange, but also many fresh, pastel shades underline the light outdoor design language. Rocking chairs, padded hammocks and hanging chairs or Hollywood swings are bringing both momentum and deceleration to the terrace and balcony. Round, lounge elements that create curvy seating landscapes are also getting things moving. Multifunctional items of furniture, the backs, arms and sitting areas of which can be easily adjusted or repositioned, are similarly flexible. They combine materials like aluminium, teak, ceramic and waterproof outdoor fabrics with ease. New sunshades in a wide selection of colours and materials also invite the consumers to mix and match.

Smart gardening: digital features make gardening easier

The current digitalisation thrust due to the Corona pandemic is boosting the online trade of the green industry. Digital solutions have been an important driving force for garden appliances for some time. In the meantime, robotic lawn mowers and automatic irrigation systems make up part of the standard equipment of many hobby gardeners. High-quality models are enhanced today with smart features that save even more time and energy. For example, the self-cleaning process of the appliances can be programmed via an app. Furthermore, mowing and irrigating lawns is optimised by sensors that measure the temperature and moisture of the ground. A networked control ensures an efficient water and electricity consumption. On the topic of electricity: Many garden appliances are equipped with high-performance battery packs and can be recharged via solar modules. This hinders both piles of cables as well as new battery packs for dimmable LEDs on sunshades.

Casual dining: Outdoor kitchens are being enhanced

In times when travel is restricted, cooking in the open air conveys a feeling of freedom and vacation. Moreover, mealtimes are moments of getting-together. Casual dining is the keyword here today, when it comes down to designing the outdoor cooking and eating space as cosily as possible. Weatherproof outdoor kitchens are the solution here, which depending on the space available and the respective demands, can be individually customised. New elements are added every year so that they are on a par with the equipment found in the fitted kitchens indoors. This also applies for the furnishing of the open-air dining room. New extendable tables in particularly stable quality can be adjusted to suit the number of guests and combined with side tables or serving trolleys. The manufacturers are encountering the increased level of urbanisation with narrow tables and loungers for smaller surfaces on the roof terrace or balcony.

Consistent comeback: Design classics and retro look

Things that are good stay and come round again. This can be seen among others in the diverse remakes of design classics for the garden. The comeback of furniture and accessories of past epochs is thus also ongoing in the current season. Whereby the customary appearance of the re-editions is combined with the comfort and quality of today's materials. Weatherproof lengths of material or light frames turn the newly produced classics into flexible furniture for indoors and out. The present-day look of many new models is reminiscent of former times. Armchairs and sofas with handwoven rope, organically shaped tables and chairs or sunbeds in bright colours make the designs of the 50s to the 70s spring to mind. At the time, the arched shapes and bright colours symbolised a new era and hope – a design approach that couldn't be more contemporary.


The next spoga+gafa will take place again - in a new freshness and with even more garden - from 19 to 21 June 2022 at the Cologne fairgrounds.

Koelnmesse – Global Competence in Furniture, Interiors and Design: Koelnmesse is the world’s top trade fair organiser for the areas of furnishing, living and lifestyle. At the trade fair hub of Cologne, the leading international fair imm cologne as well as the trade fair formats of LivingKitchen, ORGATEC, spoga+gafa, interzum and Kind + Jugend rank among the internationally renowned and established industry meeting places. These fairs comprehensively represent the upholstered and case furniture segment, the kitchen industry, the office furniture sector and outdoor living as well as the innovations of the furniture supply industry. Over the last few years, Koelnmesse has specifically added international fairs in the most important fast-expanding markets to its portfolio. These include idd Shanghai, interzum bogotá in Bogotá, interzum guangzhou in Guangzhou and Pueri Expo in Sao Paulo. With ambista, the online portal for the interiors business, Koelnmesse offers direct access to products, contacts, expertise and events relevant to the industry all year round.

Further information is available at: www.global-competence.net/interiors/
Further information about ambista: www.ambista.com/

 
The AIPH International Grower of the Year Awards 2022 opens for entries

The International Grower of the Year (IGOTY) Awards 2022, organised by the International Association of Horticultural Producers (AIPH), is now open for entries. The award ceremony will be held in January 2022 alongside IPM Essen in Germany, the industry’s largest international trade fair...


The International Grower of the Year (IGOTY) Awards 2022, organised by the International Association of Horticultural Producers (AIPH), is now open for entries. The award ceremony will be held in January 2022 alongside IPM Essen in Germany, the industry’s largest international trade fair.*

 

AIPH welcomes entries from around the world. The IGOTY Awards, supported by Headline Partner, Royal FloraHolland, celebrate best practice and recognise the ‘best of the best’ in ornamentals production in five categories; finished plants and trees, young plants, cut flowers and bulbs, sustainability and inspiring business. Within each category bronze, silver and gold awards can be won. From among these categories, only one winner will be crowned the ‘AIPH International Grower of the Year 2022’ and receive the ‘Gold Rose’ - the industry’s most coveted prize.

 

In January 2020, Anthura, a worldwide specialist in anthuriums and orchids, was named International Grower of the Year 2020. The Netherlands-based organisation reached a unique milestone for horticulture when its research and development department sequenced and mapped the DNA of orchids and Anthuriums. The company has since invested in infrastructure, technology and people to translate this breakthrough into a more sustainable production of anthuriums and orchids. The awards judging panel commented: “Anthura is a role model for all of us. They have managed to be the leader within the entire palette; Innovation, R&D, New Tech, Sales & marketing, environment and HR.”

 

Candidates can enter the IGOTY Awards 2022 online and entry closes on Friday 10th September 2021. Judging will then take place by a panel of industry experts who will access the entrants on five key criteria;economic performance, innovation, market insight, sustainability and human resources policy. From the entries a shortlist will be selected.

 

All winners will be announced at the IGOTY Awards ceremony in Essen in January; an event that brings together the industry for an evening of celebration.

 

To find out more about the IGOTY Awards visit www.aiph.org/events/igoty. For queries on entering on the awards please contact: events@aiph.org.

 

*Subject to COVID restrictions at time of event

 
Prompt needed to push Wild Bird Care sales

The one area we’d have expected to see growth in due to the cold weather was Wild Bird Care, but that wasn’t the case last week. Sales were down 7% on the previous week and 21% down on the same week in 2019. BBC’s Springwatch starts on May 25th so perhaps that will be the big prompt to encourage gardeners, old and new, to feed their garden birds and encourage wildlife...


 

The one area we’d have expected to see growth in due to the cold weather was Wild Bird Care, but that wasn’t the case last week. Sales were down 7% on the previous week and 21% down on the same week in 2019. BBC’s Springwatch starts on May 25th so perhaps that will be the big prompt to encourage gardeners, old and new, to feed their garden birds and encourage wildlife.

 

Highlights of the week were:

  • RHS Mealworms, 500g, were the highest Wild Bird Care chart new entry, in at No 14, joining the RHS Suet Balls,  which remain at No 1 in the GTN Top 50.
  • Westland Peckish Complete 2kg was the highest re-entry at No 10.
  • Gardman Co-Co Fat Feeders moved furthest up the chart from No 33 to No 5.

 

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.

 
BHETA to hold second Q&A on international freight

The British Home Enhancement Trade Association is to hold a second question and answer session on the topical issue of international freight, following the popularity of the first one back in March...


The British Home Enhancement Trade Association is to hold a second question and answer session on the topical issue of international freight, following the popularity of the first one back in March.  

 

Again, the event will enable members to discuss the cost and administrative challenges that have followed on from Covid and Brexit.  

 

It will feature Carolyn Hough, Business Development Manager from Dachser, the BHETA Business Service Provider which specialises in logistics for SMEs.

 

The event takes place on Thursday, 20th May at 10:30am and Carolyn will take questions on: 

  • Duty
  • Customs rates
  • Freight costs
  • Trading with Ireland and the requirement for a separate entity
  • Rules of Origin
  • VAT Registrations
  • Authorised representatives / Importer records
  • Incoterms (DAP / DDP) – the series of pre-defined international commercial termspublished by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) relating to international commercial law.

BHETA members attending must submit their questions to Nicola in Member Services on na@bheta.co.uk by Tuesday, 18th May.  The event is question and answer only and will not include a presentation.  

 

At the last such Q&A session, typical subjects of discussion included costs of containers from China, the post-Brexit shipping checks yet to be phased in and options to minimise rule of origin duty.

 

BHETA marketing manager Steve Richardson explained: “This is a topic which is adversely affecting very many businesses in the home improvement and home enhancement sector.  Carolyn was tremendously helpful at the last event and I urge BHETA members to take the opportunity to attend.”

 

More details of BHETA’s events programme, which includes Meet The Buyer events and networking forums with leading retailers can be found on the BHETA website www.bheta.co.uk.  

 

To register for any of BHETA’s current or future events, contact Nicola Adams at the BHETA Member Services Team on 07946 078566, or alternatively, email on na@bheta.co.uk.

 
RECOUP launch new hybrid conference for 2021

Plastics recycling member-based charity, RECOUP, have announced their 2021 Conference will be a live delegate attendance Conference which will also give the opportunity to view via a web link.   The Conference, which will welcome Tom Heap, of BBC Countryfile and Radio 4 Costing the Earth, again to the stage to moderate the morning sessions will be held at KingsGate Conference Centre, Peterborough, on 30th September 2021...


 

Plastics recycling member-based charity, RECOUP, have announced their 2021 Conference will be a live delegate attendance Conference which will also give the opportunity to view via a web link.   The Conference, which will welcome Tom Heap, of BBC Countryfile and Radio 4 Costing the Earth, again to the stage to moderate the morning sessions will be held at KingsGate Conference Centre, Peterborough, on 30th September 2021.   

 

Anne Hitch, Citizen & Stakeholder Engagement Manager, at RECOUP, commented “we are delighted to be able to offer opportunities for delegates to be able to network and meet in person this year alongside, the ability for remote viewing.   We are working closely with the venue to ensure the safety of all attendees and have made changes to the programme allowing for all sessions to take place in the large auditorium.”   

 

The day long Conference offers both members and non-members of RECOUP the opportunity to exhibit at the venue as well as the opportunity to attend a networking dinner the evening prior to the Conference at the Holiday Inn West, Peterborough.   

 

RECOUP, CEO, Stuart Foster, further commented “I am sure that the Conference will remain one of the key events in the plastics recycling calendar and collaboration and co-operation across the value chain has never been more important.   We are, once more, expecting vibrant and enthusiastic debate.”

 

RECOUP continue to be very active across the whole of the plastics recycling value chain leading on sustainable plastics recycling and resource management.   The organisation collaborates with different stakeholders, trade bodies, and groups on initiatives with related aims and ambitions. International engagement also remains strong with so many of the opportunities and challenges shared across Europe and beyond and it is expected that the hybrid event will enable engagement from far and wide.    

 

Registrations are open at www.recoup.org.   

 

Potential members are encouraged to get in touch via e-mail to rebecca.davis@recoup.org, or telephone 01733 390021.   

 
HTA responds to the Queen's speech

The HTA welcomes the government's commitment to investing in new green industries and other changes to come following the Queen's speech on May 11...


The HTA welcomes the government's commitment to investing in new green industries and other changes to come following the Queen's speech on May 11.

 

Speaking after the Queen’s speech outlined plans to “deliver a national recovery from the pandemic”, James Clark, HTA Director of Policy and Communications, said:  “As a sector that underpins around half of the Government’s 25 Year Environment Plan, we welcome a greater focus on the environment in government policymaking. 

 

‘We need to see better recognition of the sector in the proposed Environmental Land Management (ELMs) schemes. The proposed introduction of a deposit return scheme for single use plastic and its impact on the sector, needs careful examination. 

 

“A Subsidies Controls Bill is a concept that needs to be directed towards the government’s commitment to supporting new green industries. It is of great importance to the horticulture sector and to the overall wellbeing of the UK. 

 

“We are committed to working with governments to ensure these plans come to fruition and businesses are supported throughout the pandemic and beyond.”

 
The best of last week's

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


 
25% more gardening sets new April record

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...


 

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 Bestsellers 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.

 

 

GTN Bestsellers Top 50 sales volumes compared to the same week in 2019: week 18.

  • Garden Products Top 50 – up 11%
  • Growing Media Top 50 – up 32%
  • Veg 2 Gro Top 50 – down 6%
  • Wild Bird & Wildlife Care Top 50 – down 1%

GTN Bestsellers All Sales volumes compared to the same week in 2019: week 18.

  • All Plants with Barcode index – up 14%
  • All Items with Barcode index – up 18%

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.

 
Monkton Elm Pet Centre stops the sale of rabbits

A pet centre has urged other retailers to follow its lead in banning the sale of rabbits in a bid to cut the number of animals ending up in rescue centres. Monkton Elm Garden & Pet Centre in Taunton, Somerset, hopes its stance will help to raise awareness of rabbit welfare.


 

A pet centre has urged other retailers to follow its lead in banning the sale of rabbits in a bid to cut the number of animals ending up in rescue centres.

 

Monkton Elm Garden & Pet Centre in Taunton, Somerset, hopes its stance will help to raise awareness of rabbit welfare.

 

“As animal lovers and a family run business, we felt we needed to take a stand,” said pet centre supervisor Leah Jones.

 

“We have decided the responsible thing to do is to stop selling rabbits, full stop. We will continue to provide expert advice, high quality foods and foraging treats which we are well known for, but we do not wish to contribute to this rising issue.

 

“We pride ourselves in finding the perfect homes and always putting the animals first. It is not about the sales for us. We are continuously educating ourselves on the latest up-to-date care especially when it comes to rabbits.”

 

And in a message to fellow pet shops, Leah added: “We believe that if you truly care about animals, it is your responsibility to at least educate properly, or even better, you will do the same and join us in taking a stand.”

 

The covid-19 pandemic has seen an increase in pet ownership in the UK with rabbits being popular choices because they are inexpensive to buy. But, according to Leah, many new owners are unaware of the welfare needs of rabbits.

 

“Rescue centres across the UK have seen a massive spike in animals being neglected or re-homed,” she said. “The RSPCA is concerned that the increase of people purchasing ‘starter pets’ like rabbits has become a severe problem.

 

“Cases of abandoned rabbits are on the rise. There were 107 cases in the UK in 2019 and this figure rose to 248 last year – a 69.9% increase.

 

“Also, rabbits need a lot of space, yet we still insist on putting them in hutches that are too small.

 

“We believe in putting the welfare of rabbits first. Those are not just marketing words – we really mean it. The pet team are genuine animal lovers with expert knowledge and to them the most important factor with people keeping pets is the welfare of those animals.”

 
Phenomenal year of sales for Natural Grower

Natural Grower are having another phenomenal year of sales in 2021 with their organic and vegan approved natural fertiliser products. When shutdown happened in 2020 their online sales went through the roof.


 

Natural Grower are having another phenomenal year of sales in 2021 with their organic and vegan approved natural fertiliser products. When shutdown happened in 2020 their online sales went through the roof.

 

Director of Natural Grower ,Charlotte Beaty, said: "Overnight it went bonkers with online sales and we were fulfilling orders from 8am in the morning to 10pm at night.

 

"The demand for approved organic, eco-friendly and pet-safe products has risen exponentially over the last 18 months as people appreciate more and more that we all need to reduce the use of chemicals in our gardens.

 

"We are delighted that garden centres are recognising this and moving towards stocking more eco-friendly, chemical free products. Burstons have our products in their Eco Garden section and our eco-friendly products are also championed by Burford as they move to stock more chemical free products.

 

"The number of garden centres stocking our products has also increased considerably for 2021, with Blue Diamond, British Garden Centres, Longacres and Squires all on board.

 

"Our list of online retailers has also increased with Crocus, Hayloft, Waitrose and Abel & Cole all stocking and replenishing their stock on a very regular basis."

 

The Natural Grower range of products includes their Natural Liquid Fertiliser in 2 litre bottles and 10 litre jerry cans, and their Natural Plant Feed and Soil Conditioner in 1 litre pouches, 16 Litre Tubs and 50 litre bags.

 

Approved by the Soil Association, Organic Farmers and Growers, the BioDynamic Association and the Vegan Society, their range of products provide the traceable guarantee that gardeners are now looking for.

 

With plenty of stock available for new accounts, contact Charlotte via sales@naturalgrower.co.uk to discuss stocking Natural Grower through 2021. 

 
Ergrownomics - The future of raised planters and beds

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

 

 
Garden Re-Leaf Day 2021 raises over £75,000

Despite being apart, this year’s Garden Re-Leaf Day saw the charity’s supporters come together like never before as it has been confirmed that the 2021 event has now raised in excess of £75,000...


Despite being apart, this year’s Garden Re-Leaf Day saw the charity’s supporters come together like never before as it has been confirmed that the 2021 event has now raised in excess of £75,000!

 

From acts of endurance including mammoth walking, cycling, running and even skipping challenges, to virtual quizzes, head shaving, product donations, free design consultancy and mowing contests, this year’s event was full of incredible FUNdraising efforts from across the garden retail sector. Suppliers and retailers pulled together teams, that despite the challenges faced by the pandemic, managed to clock up thousands of miles, millions of steps, shaved heads, endless memories and a lifetime of smiles for this much-loved annual fundraising event, which also celebrated its 10th anniversary this March.

 

Special thanks goes to so many of this year’s Garden Re-Leaf Day supporters, including AMES, Ann-Marie Powell, Boyd Douglas-Davies and the teams at British Garden Centres, Capi Europe, Deco-Pak, Evergreen Garden Care, Garden Trade News, Gardenforum, GIMA, Glee, Growing Solutions, Hayloft Plants, Hornby Whitefoot PR, Hozelock, HTA, Kew Green Hotels, Klondyke, Millbrook Garden Centres, P de Jager, Perrywood Garden Centre, Plants 2 Gardens, Poplars Garden Centre, Primeur, Primrose Hill Nurseries, QVC, Richard Jacksons Garden, Scotscape, Sims Garden Machinery, Stihl, The Garden Design Consultancy, the Greenfingers team, and Thompson and Morgan.

 

Boyd Douglas-Davies, founder of Garden Re-Leaf Day said: “When the idea for Garden Re-Leaf Day formed 10 years ago, I had no idea that the event would become a much-loved event on the industry’s calendar. To date the effort of all those that have supported Garden Re-Leaf Day over the years has helped to raise in excess of £775,000 which is a such a fantastic number. From myself, the Greenfingers Charity team and all those children, families and carers that have benefited from a Greenfingers garden, thank you. We are so grateful for your ongoing support and enthusiasm to support the Greenfingers Charity’s flagship fundraiser.”

 

Talking about the 2021 event, Greenfingers Chairman, Sue Allen said: “On Garden Re-Leaf Day I along with my daughter Tammy and two other crazy ladies from Millbrook Garden Centres decided to Brave the Shave!  In bright sunshine, but with a brisk breeze around the ears, members of our families took secret delight in shaving our heads to raise money to support the work of the charity. We are thrilled that losing our lockdown locks raised an incredible £20,000. 

 

“I personally, as Chairman, am even more thrilled that so many of you contributed to such an amazing Garden Re-leaf fund-raising total when our normal income streams are hampered. What a great lot you are, coming up with so many daft and ambitious ways to raise those precious pounds. 

 

“Thank you to everyone who contributed, but a particular mention for the generosity of Barton Grange that really spurred Tammy and I to greater heights (or shorter lengths!) and inspired us both to increase our personal FUNdraising target of £10k to £20k. When you consider a garden can cost anything from £60,000, that puts it into perspective.”

 

Sue’s sentiments were echoed by Deco-Pak’s Craig Hall, who is also a Greenfingers ambassador and long-term supporter of Garden Re-Leaf Day. He said: “Garden Re-Leaf Day has always been a key date in our diary, but we knew this year was going to be a little different due to the ongoing pandemic. Couple this with the fact that 2021 marks Garden Re-Leaf’s 10th anniversary and we knew we had to do something big, and something that brought the team together despite like never before.

 

“I am incredibly proud of the Deco-Pak team and what we have achieved together and are so grateful to everyone that has already donated to our fundraising efforts. Thank you to each and every one of you. It really does make all the difference when the tiredness is kicking in!”

 

Paul North, Managing Director of AMES, added: “We at AMES were humbled by the effort put forth by the team to support Garden Re-Leaf Day; a great event raising money for a worthwhile cause.”

 

Also speaking about the event, Mark Portman, Evergreen Garden Care’s Managing Director said: “Evergreen Garden Care really enjoyed Garden Re-Leaf Day from walking to cycling, horse riding to running and, of course, the quiz! We recognise the importance and more so this year to step away from our usual place of work and step into nature. As always, it's a real pleasure to support Greenfingers through Garden Re-Leaf Day and for all the colleagues across Evergreen we recorded an incredible 1,410,580 steps, as well as meeting our fundraising goal."

 

Linda Petrons, Director of Fundraising and Communications at Greenfingers echoed Boyd’s sentiments, saying; “We can’t thank the industry enough for pulling out all the stops to get involved, especially in a year that has really challenged many of us.  The funds raised from this year’s event will be put to very good use as we work towards giving the gift of a garden to more children’s hospices across the UK, including:  Ty Hafan in Wales, Haven House in Essex, The Nook in East Anglia, Jigsaw Children’s Hospice in Carlisleand Derian House in Chorley.”

 

The date for next year’s Garden Re-Leaf Day is Friday 18th March!

 

Find out more

To find out more about the wonderful work the Greenfingers Charity undertakes please join in the conversation by joining Greenfingers on social media https://www.facebook.com/Greenfingerscharity/,@GreenfingersCha on Twitter, and @Greenfingerscharity on Instagram and LinkedIn.

 
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


 
Supreme Petfoods provides 30 hours of free CPD, now accredited by SQP regulator Vetpol

Supreme Petfoods has announced that the free virtual training it provides about care of small pets is now accredited by SQP regulator Vetpol...


 

Supreme Petfoods has announced that the free virtual training it provides about care of small pets is now accredited by SQP regulator Vetpol. 

 

The content has been developed by Supreme with leading veterinary specialists and expert veterinary nurses with a specific focus on the care of small pets. In total there are 30 hours of free continuing professional development (CPD) that can be used by SQPs or veterinary professionals as part of their mandatory requirement. 

 

The courses can be accessed at https://supremepetfoods.com/vet-zone/cpd-webinars-and-videos/.

 

Some of Supreme’s webinars are designed to specifically meet the needs of veterinary professionals and those topics include anaesthesia, drug dosages for small pets and treatment of common clinical conditions. For SQPs and those in the pet trade looking to build expertise, there are a number of nutritional topics that will help them give pet owners great advice to help them maintain the health of their pets. 

 

Supreme marketing manager Claire Hamblion says the accreditation reflects the quality of the materials available. “It’s long been our focus to produce high quality CPD. The specialists delivering this training include Molly Varga, Jo Hinde, Charly Pignon, Jo Hedley, Anna Meredith and Livia Benato – all names that veterinary professionals will recognise for their passion for improving veterinary care for small pets. Now with Vetpol’s accreditation, Companion Animal SQPs can also ensure that they benefit from CPD that’s specific to small pets.”

 

Supreme joins an impressive line up of companies that offer free CPD, accredited by Vetpol across a variety of species, available at https://vetpol.uk/being-a-sqp/vetpol-accredited-cpd/.

 

Vetpol Co-founder, Caroline Johnson says she’s delighted to add the Supreme content. “We all know that small pets have very specific needs and that their health and welfare is very dependent on the knowledge and commitment of their owners. These free and high-quality training resources will help to improve the knowledge of the people who are best placed to ensure that pet owners have the help and support they need to care for their pets.”

 

Find the complete portfolio of accredited CPD, waiting room videos and supplementary resources on the Supreme website, in the Vet Zone https://supremepetfoods.com/vet-zone/.

UK to lead way on animal welfare with new Action Plan

The Government has published an action plan for animal welfare that will revolutionise the treatment of animals in the UK and introduce measures to protect the welfare of animals abroad...


The Government has published an action plan for animal welfare that will revolutionise the treatment of animals in the UK and introduce measures to protect the welfare of animals abroad.   

 

Now that we have left the EU, the UK has new freedoms to further strengthen animal welfare standards and reinforce its position as a global champion of animal rights.   

 

The Action Plan for Animal Welfare, launched today by the Environment Secretary George Eustice, will build on our existing world leading standards by recognising animals as sentient in law and committing to a range of new game changing welfare measures to protect pets, livestock and wild animals.


During a visit to Battersea Dogs and Cats Home, the Environment Secretary said that the Government would take a significant step forwards on animal welfare by formally recognising animals as sentient beings through a new Animal Sentience Bill that was introduced to Parliament on Thursday, putting animal welfare at the very heart of government policy decision making.


Launching the plan, the Environment Secretary George Eustice said: “We are a nation of animal lovers and were the first country in the world to pass animal welfare laws.   “Our Action Plan for Animal Welfare will deliver on our manifesto commitment to ban the export of live animal exports for slaughter and fattening, prohibit keeping primates as pets and bring in new laws to tackle puppy smuggling.  “We will lead on the protection of animals abroad by implementing the world’s toughest ivory ban and banning the import of hunting trophies to protect iconic species. As an independent nation we are now able to go further than ever to build on our excellent track record.”


The Action Plan for Animal Welfare also sets out how the government will:
Improve welfare for pets by:

 

  • tackling puppy smuggling through changes to import rules
  • introducing compulsory microchipping for cats
  • cracking down on pet theft through a new government taskforce
  • banning remote controlled training e-collars

 

 Protect wild animals by:

 

  • making it illegal to keep primates as pets
  • introducing new laws to crack down on illegal hare coursing
  • supporting legislation to restrict the use of glue traps
  • funding wildlife conservation projects both at home abroad

 

 Protect animals abroad by:

 

  • banning the import of hunting trophies from endangered animals
  • banning the sale of ivory by implementing the Ivory Act this year
  • prohibiting the import and export of detached shark fins to protect the iconic shark species
  • exploring a ban on the sale of foie gras
  • banning the advertisement in this country of unacceptable low-welfare animal practices abroad – such as elephant rides

 

 Improve welfare for farmed animals by:

 

  • ending the export of live animals for fattening and slaughter
  • introducing new measures to improve welfare during transport
  • giving the police more powers to protect farm animals from dangerous or out of control dogs
  • examining the use of cages for poultry and farrowing crates for pigs
  • improving animal welfare at slaughter
  • incentivising farmers to improve animal health and welfare through future farming policy

To deliver these reforms, the Government will be introducing a series of Bills in due course focusing on animal sentience, kept animals here in the UK and the welfare of animals. There will also be a series of non-legislative changes to promote animal welfare over the coming months, with a number of regulations due to be brought forward as early as this year.


The Government will also ensure that animal welfare is not compromised in all our future trade negotiations.  The UK has a world-leading record on animal welfare, and over the last decade the Government has introduced a range measures to ensure we offer animals the care, respect and protection they deserve. This includes banning the use of battery cages for laying hens, introducing compulsory CCTV in slaughter houses and raising the maximum sentence for animal cruelty from six months to five years


Chris Sherwood said, Chief Executive of the RSPCA said: "These announcements will make a real and lasting difference to animals' welfare, so we're pleased the Government is committed to improving animals' lives in the UK and abroad. We can no longer ignore the inextricable link that exists between the way we treat animals, our own health and that of the planet - but to really achieve a step change, it will take courage from right across Government.  “We urge the government to put animal welfare at the heart of policy making and make these announcements just the beginning of an evolving, holistic animal health and welfare strategy."


Peter Laurie, Chief Executive of Battersea Dogs & Cats Home said: “Battersea very much welcomes the new Action Plan for Animal Welfare. Every dog and cat deserves to be safe from harm and this means clamping down on those trading animals illegally and in poor welfare conditions, being proactive to protect owners from the devastation of having their pet lost or stolen, and doing everything we can to reunite them.  “Our pets are not only sentient beings, but much-loved family members and we support any measures that will protect them from unnecessary suffering, and reassure dog and cat owners, both now and in the future.”


Claire Bass, Executive Director of Humane Society International/UK said: “We are very pleased to see so many commitments to protect animals brought into focus by government through this action plan. Britain prides itself as a nation of animal lovers and animals suffering both here and overseas for food, fur, entertainment, the pet trade and more deserve this proactive agenda.  “Delivering on the plan will require understanding and real commitment from across Whitehall. Respect for animal welfare is not only the right thing to do for animals, it will also play a critical role in tackling global environmental and public health challenges such as climate change, antibiotic resistance and pandemic prevention.”

 

Since 2010, the Government has also brought in mandatory microchipping for dogs to help reunite lost dogs with their owners and has introduced additional protection for service animals by introducing 'Finn's Law'. Last year, the Government introduced Lucy’s Law to tackle puppy farming by banning the commercial third-party sales of puppies and kittens. In 2019, the Government also outlawed the use of wild animals in circuses.

 

Recognising the links between animal health and welfare and the health of our planet, the Government is also working closely with industry to transform future farming policy through the Animal Health and Welfare Pathway which will forge a new deal between government and farmers to promote healthier and higher welfare animals. The Pathway will pay farmers to improve animal health and welfare, reduce carbon emissions and slow the rise of anti-microbial resistance.  You stay up to date with all the latest developments by searching #ActionForAnimals.

 
Brambles appoints new Digital Marketing Manager

Laura Tracey has joined her parent’s family business Brambles Pet and Wildlife to head up Digital Marketing in their fast-growing business. Laura will be responsible for digital marketing strategies that will help grow sales through specialist trade customers...


Laura Tracey has joined her parent’s family business Brambles Pet and Wildlife to head up Digital Marketing in their fast-growing business. Laura will be responsible for digital marketing strategies that will help grow sales through specialist trade customers.

 

Sales manager and Laura’s dad David Tracey said: "Laura has a natural talent for digital marketing and has excelled in this area with previous employers. When we started Brambles Pet and Wildlife in 2017 Laura gave us a plan how to manage Social Media and it has worked brilliantly with unrivalled engagement levels and really helps to generate demand for our products through our specialist trade customers. We’re now ready develop this area further and Laura is well placed to help us achieve this."

 

Laura commented: "I’m delighted to help take our family business to the next level as it continues to develop into such a strong brand."

 

Brambles PAW products are highly recommended by Wildlife Rescues all over the UK and are available in pet shops, garden centres, specialist online retailers, RSPB and National Trust shops.