The garden retail industry once again came together in spectacular style for Garden Re-Leaf Day 2026, delivering an inspiring programme of fundraising activity in support of the Greenfingers Charity. From sponsored walks to in-store events, this year’s campaign demonstrated the passion, creativity and generosity that continues to define this much-loved industry initiative.
Sponsored walk challenge
On Friday 20th March, supporters took to the great outdoors as part of the annual Garden Re-Leaf sponsored walks. This year saw an incredible 61 walkers join the South Walk, while a further 22 took on the more challenging North Walk route.
In the South, walkers were first put through their paces with some energising pre-walk aerobics thanks to Carolyn Syme, before setting off on their chosen route of either a 10-mile or 25km challenge. Meanwhile, in the North, many of those taking part were part of the Greenfingers Kilimanjaro 2026 trekking team, using the walk as vital preparation as they gear up to tackle the mountain’s formidable 5,895m elevation this June.
Both routes were made possible thanks to the dedication and leadership of key supporters. Special thanks go to Jane Lawler, who organised the North Walk, and Will Armitage, who led participants across the more demanding terrain.
The event was further brought to life thanks to the support of volunteers and contributors including Liz Shea and the Rock Choir and Jamie Donaldson, whose acoustic performance added to the atmosphere in the south. Additional thanks go to Claire Pearce from Evergreen Garden Care and Jackie Eades, alongside all the tail walkers and volunteers who ensured the smooth running of the day.
Garden centres show their support
As the walkers set off, garden centres across the UK hosted a wide variety of fundraising events, engaging customers and teams alike in support of Greenfingers’ vital work.
British Garden Centres delivered an outstanding show of support across its network, hosting a diverse range of activities including raffles, bake sales, guess-the competitions, face painting, pot painting, dog photo shoots, mini charity shops and hamper giveaways. Teams also took on additional challenges, including the sponsored walk, Mount Snowdon climbs from both Harrogate and Leeds, as well as a virtual indoor cycling challenge.
Blue Diamond rolled out activity across its centres, hosting cake sales and “plant a mini veggie planter” experiences to engage customers. Whilst Haskins Garden Centres contributed through in-store raffles, while other centres added their own creative flair to the day’s fundraising efforts including Old Railway Line who raised over £800 with their much-loved quiz and curry night.
A huge thank you must also go to British Garden Centres for hosting and supporting the South Walk at Tring Garden Centre, which has been the home of the event for several years and, once again, delivered a superb show of support in bringing the industry together.
Suppliers and partners step up
The industry’s supplier community once again demonstrated its commitment to the cause. TheGlee team got involved with both a bake sale and participation in the walk itself, while Hozelock hosted its own bake sale to raise funds.
As well as taking part in the South Walk, Woodmansterne embraced the spirit of the day with a “Floral Friday” alongside a bake sale, adding colour and creativity to the fundraising efforts.
Meanwhile, shopping channel QVC delivered an exceptional contribution, raising an incredible £12,000, with special thanks extended to Richard Jackson for his incredible support.
Linda Petrons, Director of Fundraising and Communications at Greenfingers Charity, said:
“Garden Re-Leaf Day continues to be one of the most inspiring moments in our calendar and 2026 has been no exception. To see so many people come together, whether walking, baking, fundraising or volunteering, is incredibly special.
“Every single effort, no matter how big or small, helps us continue our work creating magical, therapeutic gardens for children with life-limiting conditions and their families. These spaces offer a chance to play, rest, reflect and simply be together outdoors, often when time is incredibly precious. We are so grateful to everyone who has supported Garden Re-Leaf Day this year. Your energy, generosity and commitment truly make a difference.”
The final fundraising total for Garden Re-Leaf Day 2026 will be revealed shortly. Until then, supporters are encouraged to get behind the charity’s latest appeal, Healing Hands, Helping Hearts: https://www.greenfingerscharity.org.uk/get-involved/healing-hand-helping-hearts
For the latest updates, follow Greenfingers on social media – @Greenfingerscharity on Instagram and LinkedIn, https://www.facebook.com/Greenfingerscharity/ and @GreenfingersCha on Twitter.
