GTN Xtra - GTN Xtra – Issue 18 2026

GTN Xtra - GTN Xtra – Issue 18 2026 https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/ en-us 04 May 2026 11:03:08 BST 04 May 2026 11:03:08 BST https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/rss.xml Newsweaver trevor@pottingshedpress.co.uk (Potting Shed Press Limited) support@newsweaver.ie (Newsweaver) 60 true The Greenfingers Charity to create lasting legacy from ‘Lifted by Birds’ garden at RHS Malvern Spring Festival https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/93abjq0ei5g?lang=en&rss=true The Greenfingers Charity has announced plans to transform an uplifting show garden from this year’s RHS Malvern Spring Festival (7th-10th May, Three Counties Showground) into a permanent therapeutic space for children, families and carers at the James Hopkins Trust in Gloucester... 01 May 2026 12:00:00 BST a1d597653e423e517c6b70db3401c03f articles top <img src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/6c/5eea814775db3378049775.png" style="margin: 0px;" width="450" height="240" hspace="0" vspace="0" alt=""> The Greenfingers Charity has announced plans to transform an uplifting show garden from this year’s RHS Malvern Spring Festival (7th-10th May, Three Counties Showground) into a permanent therapeutic space for children, families and carers at the James Hopkins Trust in Gloucester... <img src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/db/4ca8104f2164c43f1c0432.png" style="margin: 0px;" width="530" height="283" hspace="0" vspace="0" alt="">   The Greenfingers Charity has announced plans to transform an uplifting show garden from this year’s RHS Malvern Spring Festival (7th-10th May, Three Counties Showground) into a permanent therapeutic space for children, families and carers at the James Hopkins Trust in Gloucester.   Designed by Tom Saunders, Jon Pilling and Dr Amie Wheeldon and sponsored by Pictorial Meadows, British Trust of Ornithology, Protect the Andes, and Arthur Burns and Sons Stone Merchants, ‘Lifted by Birds’ is a nature-led garden inspired by the movement, rhythm and quiet beauty of British birdlife. Its design shows how a generic domestic space can be transformed into a richly-textured haven for birds, with habitats ranging from woodland edges to wetland pockets – all in once cohesive environment. While it will make its debut at Malvern, the garden has been conceived from the outset with a clear and purposeful legacy.    Following the show, the Greenfingers Charity will carefully dismantle, relocate and rebuild the garden at the James Hopkins Trust, creating a lasting outdoor sanctuary for children with life-limiting conditions, alongside their families and care teams.   This approach ensures the garden lives on well beyond the showground – not simply preserved but thoughtfully reimagined to deliver long-term therapeutic value in a hospice setting.   Boyd Douglas-Davies, Chairman of Greenfingers Charity, said: ‘Lifted by Birds’ perfectly captures what Greenfingers is here to do. It’s not just about creating beautiful gardens; it’s about ensuring those spaces go on to make a real difference.   “While the garden will undoubtedly inspire visitors at Malvern, its true purpose begins afterwards, as it is rebuilt at the James Hopkins Trust in Gloucester to provide a place of comfort, reflection and connection for the children and families supported there.”   A proven legacy beyond the showground Creating lasting legacies from show gardens is not new for Greenfingers. The charity has a proven track record of ensuring complete gardens, or key elements within them, continue to have purpose long after events close.   Following last year’s BBC Gardeners’ World Live, key elements from the show garden were relocated to two Greenfingers-supported hospice gardens at Acorns Children’s Hospice and Chestnut Tree House. Meanwhile, The Together Garden at RHS Flower Show at Wentworth Woodhouse began a new and profoundly meaningful chapter at Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice, having been fully relocated to the hospice following the show.   Once complete, ‘Lifted by Birds’ will offer a rich, sensory environment designed to support wellbeing, combining naturalistic planting with wildlife-friendly features to create moments of calm, engagement and escape.   The project also reflects Greenfingers’ ongoing commitment to sustainability and legacy within horticulture, demonstrating how Show gardens can be repurposed and continue to deliver impact long after the festival gates close.   Find out more To date, Greenfingers Charity has created more than 70 hospice gardens across the UK, each one providing a vital, nature-filled space where children and families can spend time together away from clinical environments.   To find out more, including how to get involved in future fundraising events please visit <a title="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/bcumuz6jh8w/external?lang=en" href="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/bcumuz6jh8w/external?lang=en" data-outlook-id="afcecbe6-97be-4a99-b15a-5e9b937522f8">www.greenfingerscharity.org.uk</a>. You can also join in the conversation by joining Greenfingers on social media by following @Greenfingerscharity on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn. Registration opens for Autumn Fair 2026 https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/1b4a84mvt5h?lang=en&rss=true Registration is now officially open for Autumn Fair 2026. Taking place at the NEC Birmingham from 6th-9th September 2026, the event co-locates with garden retail show Glee, creating Europe’s biggest buying moment for home, gift, garden and fashion retail... 01 May 2026 12:00:00 BST 56b06686174223e382512e729642a97d articles top <img src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/6b/8c71986caa41b474c10c69.jpg" style="margin: 0px;" width="450" height="300" hspace="0" vspace="0" alt=""> Registration is now officially open for Autumn Fair 2026. Taking place at the NEC Birmingham from 6th-9th September 2026, the event co-locates with garden retail show Glee, creating Europe’s biggest buying moment for home, gift, garden and fashion retail... <img src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/46/c0a9a07aff5233c6e2780e.jpg" style="margin: 0px;" width="530" height="353" hspace="0" vspace="0" alt="">   Registration is now officially open for Autumn Fair 2026, the UK's definitive buying destination for home, gift and fashion ahead of the peak retail trading season. Taking place at the NEC Birmingham from 6th – 9th September 2026, the event co-locates with garden retail show Glee on the 8th – 9th September creating Europe’s biggest buying moment for home, gift, garden and fashion retail.   Bringing together 1,250+ exhibitors across both shows, Autumn Fair offers an unrivalled opportunity for retailers to source, discover and connect, all in one trip, at a critical time when Q4 ranges are being finalised.   A Bigger, Smarter Buying Opportunity The co-location with Glee significantly expands the buying landscape, giving visitors access to a broader cross-category range and new supplier opportunities without additional cost. With: <ul type="disc"> <li>500,000+ products available for immediate purchase</li> <li>20,000+ combined buyers</li> <li>£500m collective spend</li> <li>80% of buyers holding buying power</li> <li>10% increase in event footprint</li> <li>34% rise in new buyers attending</li> </ul> Created for how retailers buy today, Autumn Fair 2026 is built for modern retail, and designed to help retailers make confident, commercially impactful decisions fast. Whether independent or multi-site, buyers can efficiently source new products, discover emerging brands, and secure stock ahead of the busiest trading period - over 25% of brands are new to the show and over 30% exhibit exclusively at Autumn Fair.   Buyers can finalise Christmas and Autumn/Winter ranges in one visit, discover exclusive, trend-led products and new launches, meet suppliers ready to fulfil immediate and flexible orders, and access expert-led content, workshops and buying tours. For time-poor independents, the show offers a focused, easy-to-navigate environment that removes risk and maximises return from every hour spent onsite.   <img src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/89/47b255022eabe31c65c521.jpg" style="margin: 0px;" width="255" height="360" hspace="0" vspace="0" alt=""> <img src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/b1/f3f07d6b2bbf08e3013769.jpg" style="margin: 0px;" width="255" height="360" hspace="0" vspace="0" alt=""> Where the Industry Connects More than just a buying event, Autumn Fair is where the retail community comes together to share insights, build relationships and spot what’s next. From trend-led seminars to 1-2-1 expert sessions, the show provides valuable opportunities to gain fresh perspectives and leave not just with stock, but with strategy, connections and confidence.   Autumn Fair is proven to deliver results. With 13,000+ buyers actively placing orders ahead of peak trading, the event continues to be a powerful platform for both buyers and exhibitors. For retailers, it’s a chance to source efficiently across multiple categories, stay ahead of competitors with early access to new ranges, and build relationships with trusted and emerging suppliers. For exhibitors, it’s an opportunity to get in front of high-intent buyers ready to order, build pipelines that convert both at and after the show, and showcase products in a high-energy, commercially focused environment.   “Autumn Fair is where the retail industry comes together at a critical moment in the buying calendar,” said Matthew Mein, Event Director of Autumn Fair. “With registration now open for 2026, we’re proud to co-locate with Glee to create Europe’s biggest buying moment. This gives buyers unrivalled access to a broader range of products, suppliers and opportunities, all under one roof. Independent retailers can't afford to over-commit months in advance. Autumn Fair is designed for the way they actually buy – reactive, flexible and in-season. This is where they top up on proven sellers, test new ranges with manageable orders, and find ready-to-ship stock that gets them through the peak season without unnecessary risk. Whether you’re finalising your peak-season ranges or discovering new brands, Autumn Fair is designed to help retailers buy smarter, faster and with confidence.”   Retailers and buyers can now secure their place at Autumn Fair 2026 and be part of the industry’s most important buying moment of the year.   Register now at: <a title="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/1b2rcwxjm4q/external?lang=en" href="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/1b2rcwxjm4q/external?lang=en" data-outlook-id="4d32d5ce-bc3a-4281-983c-58b792e6ffe9">www.autumnfair.com</a> Half of horticulture businesses say that rising costs outstrip profits https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/2ychzzv476m?lang=en&rss=true Horticultural businesses are calling on the government to “stop the squeeze on growth” as rising employment taxes, energy bills and input costs push firms into declining profitability despite continued sales... 01 May 2026 12:00:00 BST 4fa98552f93c0db2c97cebb06ef527e6 articles top <img src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/0e/2083a302d99fbcdf64eeda.png" style="margin: 0px;" width="450" height="262" hspace="0" vspace="0" alt=""> Horticultural businesses are calling on the government to “stop the squeeze on growth” as rising employment taxes, energy bills and input costs push firms into declining profitability despite continued sales... <img src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/11/04dba02bc15e0efd4eabd3.png" style="margin: 0px;" width="530" height="308" hspace="0" vspace="0" alt="">   Horticultural businesses are calling on the government to “stop the squeeze on growth” as rising employment taxes, energy bills and input costs push firms into declining profitability despite continued sales.   The Horticultural Trades Association’s latest quarterly Business Barometer shows significantly more businesses are behind their profit targets than ahead, with a net balance of -36% at the end of Q1 2026. This compares with -13% for sales, highlighting a widening gap between trading and profitability and the scale of the margin pressure businesses are now facing. Retailers were particularly affected, with a profit net balance of -46%.   Year-on-year figures further confirm the trend: while retailers, growers, and manufacturers reported an increase in their sales (+11% net balance), they also reported a sharp fall in profits (-27% net balance). This indicates that rising costs, rather than declining demand, are the primary drivers of this weaker performance.   HTA Members cited increases in the National Living Wage and employer National Insurance Contributions, alongside rising fuel and material costs, as the main causes of profit reduction. Businesses also reported the knock-on effect of wage increases pushing up pay structures, while weakened consumer confidence, linked in part to global instability, including the Iran conflict, is compounding the pressure.   The impact is now affecting longer-term business decisions, with investment intentions falling across all five tracked categories; just 62% of members plan at least one investment, down from 70% in the previous quarter and 74% in quarter 3 of 2025, showing the downward trend. Among those already behind profit expectations, 63% say they plan to cut or slow investment.   Confidence is also deteriorating. Medium-term outlook has fallen to 4.2 out of 7, while long-term confidence has dropped to 4.0 — the lowest level since the start of the pandemic.   While landscapers remain relatively resilient, with strong short-term pipelines, many report increasing difficulty converting new enquiries, suggesting cost pressures and weaker consumer confidence are beginning to affect future demand.   The HTA said the widening gap between sales and profit performance shows sustained cost pressures are now directly constraining growth and investment across the sector.   Fran Barnes, Chief Executive of the HTA, said: “Sales are holding up, but businesses are not seeing the benefit. Costs are rising faster than revenues, squeezing margins across our sector.   “This is not one single pressure, it is the cumulative effect of rising employment costs, higher energy bills, fuel, materials and increasing regulatory burden all landing at once.   “The increases in employer National Insurance and the National Living Wage alone are significant, particularly in a labour-intensive sector like ours, where it is estimated to have added £134 million to industry costs, but they also sit alongside a wider set of cost pressures that businesses simply cannot absorb indefinitely.   “We are now seeing the consequences. Profits are falling, investment is being delayed, and confidence is at its lowest level since the pandemic.   “If the government is serious about growth, it must address that cumulative cost burden. Without action, businesses will continue to scale back at a time when they should be investing, growing and creating jobs.”   The HTA is calling for action to ease cost pressures, including extending energy support to horticultural businesses, a more responsive, streamlined, and investment-friendly business rates system, reducing regulatory and financial barriers to open up funding opportunities, and reducing trade friction with the EU. RHS Licensing Manager wins Ambassador Award https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/jjfji21by8t?lang=en&rss=true It’s been yet another big year for The Royal Horticultural Society at the Brand & Lifestyle Licensing Awards (B&LLAs), where its licensing team made it two in a row with another win – its third – in the prestigious Best Licensed Heritage or Institution Brand category... RHS Licensing Manager Cathy Snow was presented with The Brand Licensing Ambassador Of The Year Award. 01 May 2026 12:00:00 BST d3ed38262ad6d1bd1a1bf4ff904d6c11 articles top It’s been yet another big year for The Royal Horticultural Society at the Brand & Lifestyle Licensing Awards (B&LLAs), where its licensing team made it two in a row with another win – its third – in the prestigious Best Licensed Heritage or Institution Brand category... <img src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/00/cc8fa26584f933998261a2.jpg" style="margin: 0px;" width="450" height="300" hspace="0" vspace="0" alt=""> RHS Licensing Manager Cathy Snow was presented with The Brand Licensing Ambassador Of The Year Award. <img src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/26/b90d75864e3a772f9debdd.jpg" style="margin: 0px;" width="530" height="353" hspace="0" vspace="0" alt="">   It’s been yet another big year for The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) at the Brand & Lifestyle Licensing Awards (B&LLAs), where its licensing team made it two in a row with another win – its third – in the prestigious Best Licensed Heritage or Institution Brand category.   <img align="right" src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/64/982fccf18f8df87beacb52.jpg" style="margin: 10px;" width="275" height="428" hspace="10" vspace="10" alt="">But the big news came at the climax of the show when, to her amazement and everyone’s delight, RHS Licensing Manager Cathy Snow was presented with The Brand Licensing Ambassador Of The Year Award, a special award given annually to individuals who have contributed greatly to the evolution of brand licensing.   In her presentation speech Jakki Brown, Managing Director at Max Publishing, which owns and organises the B&LLAs, highlighted Cathy’s kind and caring leadership, her respect for brands’ sensibilities and core values, and her ability to nurture relationships with colleagues and business partners among the many qualities that made her a worthy recipient of this award.   Jakki also emphasised Cathy’s pioneering work in her field, specifically her prescience in seeing the potential of charity and heritage brands as a licensing opportunity, firstly through her influence on the RSPCA’s licensing programme, and then through working with and developing the licensing programme of the RHS, a major heritage brand clearly burgeoning with potential. But, Jakki added, even while evolving and building the brand, Cathy never lost sight of the RHS mission and core values, which include a steadfast commitment to sustainability.   As Jakki pointed out, Cathy’s work on this well-loved brand has helped it to expand its reach beyond gardening and homeware into many new areas, from fashion to food, handbags to health & beauty – and even dolls’ prams.   To great applause and gasps of delight (this had been a very well-kept secret, even from the RHS itself), Jakki concluded: “It gives me enormous pleasure to announce that the B&LLAs Brand Ambassador 2026 award goes to Cathy Snow, Licensing Manager of the Royal Horticultural Society.”   This wasn’t the only headline news for the RHS at this event. It again made a strong showing at the B&LLAs, with eight nominations and a win in the highly competitive Best Licensed Heritage or Institution Brand award, open to museum, gallery, heritage, charity or visitor attraction brands. Every nominee in this category was a household name with a long and distinguished history, which made this win, which the RHS also achieved in 2017 and 2025, even more impressive.   The 2026 B&LLAs have capped another excellent year for the RHS licensing team, which in recent years has grown its licensing programme, opened doors to new retailers, collaborated with well-known brands as well as small craft and family-run brands, supported UK industry and expanded the number of countries it reaches. It has done all this, moreover, while introducing substantial changes in sourcing and sustainability practices and always ensuring that licensees and licensed products are aligned with RHS objectives.   Kevin Smith, Senior Licensing Development Executive, RHS says: “As Jakki noted, Cathy’s nurturing nature has brought the best out of this small and close-knit team, all of whom have been inspired by her leadership. We have long had first-hand experience of the transformative effect of Cathy’s work on the RHS licensing programme and were all thrilled to see her marvellous work acknowledged on the biggest stage of all for heritage licensing.”   Cathy Snow Licensing Manager RHS adds: “It was wonderful yet again to see the RHS secure so many nominations and I was delighted that we won the Best Heritage or Institution Brand award for the third time, but receiving The Brand Licensing Ambassador Of The Year was completely unexpected. I am, of course, honoured, but I have to say this is not only a personal accolade but also a tribute to the many people who have worked on and supported the RHS campaign over the years, in particular my hard-working, committed and skilful team and the many wonderful licensees that have come on board and, quite often, stayed with us for a very long time.” Green-fingered Vitax team plant trees for community https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/4zcatkjwa82?lang=en&rss=true Vitax demonstrated its commitment to sustainability through a tree planting event in the National Forest, as part of its latest community partnership... 01 May 2026 12:00:00 BST 2f5196b4b0d34f3e3e7b97d45afd438e articles top <img src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/4b/4ee792561644093d884522.jpg" style="margin: 0px;" width="450" height="292" hspace="0" vspace="0" alt=""> Vitax demonstrated its commitment to sustainability through a tree planting event in the National Forest, as part of its latest community partnership... <img src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/f2/4affd3efc1ed23a9c55bf8.jpg" style="margin: 0px;" width="530" height="344" hspace="0" vspace="0" alt="">   Vitax demonstrated its commitment to sustainability through a tree planting event in the National Forest, as part of its latest community partnership.    The event saw the team plant 300 trees across two new groves at 15-hectares Peggs Pear Wood, in the National Forest, contributing to the long-term health of a landscape that sits firmly on the company’s doorstep.    For a business whose products help nurture gardens across the UK, the initiative forms a natural extension of its values, and a meaningful way to give something back to the local community.    Anja Gooding, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of <a href="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/wjitxi5i2r5/external?lang=en" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Vitax</a>, said: "The National Forest is part of our landscape, it's where many of our team live, and spend time with their families. Sponsoring the groves through the tree planting initiative isn't just an environmental gesture, it is also an opportunity for us to support our local community.      We talk a lot about the benefits of working with nature and our partnership with the National Forest is a chance to get our hands dirty, bring the team together and do exactly that.    The two new groves form part of an effort to ensure future generations, including the next wave of gardeners, inherit a healthier, greener world.”    Jim Vickrage, development manager at the National Forest, said: “The support from Vitax will help us to develop the forest and manage our woodlands. Leaving a legacy like this means that in future years they can enjoy seeing how it grows and comes to life. We couldn’t do what we do without partnerships like this one.”    Within its business approach, Vitax maintains a focus on environmental responsibility and has introduced a range of organic and environmentally friendly products. The company seeks to balance sustainability and reduced environmental impact in its plans where possible, ensuring that meaningful action begins within its own community.    Peggs Pear Wood was acquired by the National Forest Company in 2023 to increase the environmental benefits associated with tree planting and new woodlands, as well as contributing towards the target of a third forest cover within the National Forest boundary by 2045.    The National Forest is one of the country’s most ambitious and highly regarded environmental projects with sustainable development at its heart, transforming 200 square miles across parts of Derbyshire, Leicestershire, and Staffordshire.    For more information, visit <a href="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/17zwrmzc3h9/external?lang=en" target="_blank" rel="noopener">vitax.co.uk</a>.  David Domoney raises money to fund cancer research https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/1q8kf1v67lw?lang=en&rss=true Manchester-based garden retailer J. Parker’s [ https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/rxfui92haxx/external?lang=en ] welcomed renowned horticulturist and TV garden presenter David Domoney to their Daisy Nook Garden Centre in Failsworth to hold a community fundraising event in support of The Christie NHS Foundation Trust.. 01 May 2026 12:00:00 BST 1c9226a392bf88cfabee169a8e2b0ef5 articles top <img src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/d5/0e72871c759c0042305a80.jpeg" style="margin: 0px;" width="450" height="300" hspace="0" vspace="0" alt=""> Manchester-based garden retailer <a id="OWA00d0dec9-cf42-6d7e-f82e-edbe19a3c496" title="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/rxfui92haxx/external?lang=en" href="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/rxfui92haxx/external?lang=en" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-outlook-id="ef96ee37-c011-4fca-bcc2-7e0dfc66b64c">J. Parker’s</a> welcomed renowned horticulturist and TV garden presenter David Domoney to their Daisy Nook Garden Centre in Failsworth to hold a community fundraising event in support of The Christie NHS Foundation Trust.. <img src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/28/3ed4c2c26a517e3f91c72b.jpeg" style="margin: 0px;" width="530" height="353" hspace="0" vspace="0" alt="">   Manchester-based garden retailer <a id="OWA00d0dec9-cf42-6d7e-f82e-edbe19a3c496" title="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/rxfui92haxx/external?lang=en" href="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/rxfui92haxx/external?lang=en" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-outlook-id="ef96ee37-c011-4fca-bcc2-7e0dfc66b64c">J. Parker’s</a> welcomed renowned horticulturist and TV garden presenter David Domoney to their Daisy Nook Garden Centre in Failsworth to hold a community fundraising event in support of The Christie NHS Foundation Trust while also continuing their work of creating meaningful horticultural events in Greater Manchester.   At the event, Domoney delivered a talk on the ‘Top Seasonal Plants’, selecting some of the best plants for spring and sharing planting and care tips to provide inspiration for keen gardeners in the local area.   Ticket sales from the event raised £750, with all proceeds going towards supporting the work of The Christie NHS Foundation Trust, Europe’s largest single-site cancer centre, and its vital cancer research.   David Domoney said, “I really enjoyed sharing some practical planting inspiration and highlighting some of the finest seasonal stars for the garden with a great audience today. It’s wonderful that the event is also supporting a deserving cause.”   This event marks the continuation of J. Parker’s In The Community initiative, which aims to create accessible and valuable horticultural experiences for residents across Greater Manchester. It builds on a series of events hosted at Daisy Nook Garden Centre this year, including a recent event supporting Women in Horticulture as well as a free monthly gardening club, providing educational support to local schools and inspiring keen young gardeners across Manchester.   Building on this work within the local community, this summer J. Parker’s will also work alongside pupils from Worthington Primary School to create an international garden, celebrating the school’s multicultural makeup through garden design. As well as a project with a primary school in Sale, Greater Manchester to support students as they design and create a bee-friendly border for the Chorley Flower Show in July.   Edward Doherty, Marketing Manager at J. Parker's, said, 'What a great talk and demonstration we had here today from David, seeing visitors leave inspired to make the most of the potential that their garden can provide. A big thank you to David for giving his time to help raise funds to support the amazing work that The Christie does." Entry numbers growing fast for Hot Off the Potting Bench https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/378d7ka3m7n?lang=en&rss=true The team behind Hot Off the Potting Bench at BBC Gardeners’ World Live, which takes place at the NEC 18-21 June 2026, are issuing a timely reminder to plant breeders and growers to take advantage of this standout opportunity to showcase their latest introductions... 01 May 2026 12:00:00 BST debcf6544f69fba6cbc1f45a726fc664 articles top <img src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/7e/12bdead8236a9e99809108.png" style="margin: 0px;" width="450" height="306" hspace="0" vspace="0" alt=""> The team behind Hot Off the Potting Bench at BBC Gardeners’ World Live, which takes place at the NEC 18-21 June 2026, are issuing a timely reminder to plant breeders and growers to take advantage of this standout opportunity to showcase their latest introductions... <img src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/6d/7398b3c85d5c08cca0018e.png" style="margin: 0px;" width="530" height="360" hspace="0" vspace="0" alt="">   The team behind Hot Off the Potting Bench at BBC Gardeners’ World Live, which takes place at the NEC 18-21 June 2026, are issuing a timely reminder to plant breeders and growers to take advantage of this standout opportunity to showcase their latest introductions.   As one of the anchor exhibits within the Floral Marquee, Hot Off the Potting Bench offers a unique platform for breeders and growers to present brand new plants directly to the people who matter most - the plant-buying public.   Now in its fourth year as a standalone feature, the exhibit highlights plants set to reach the market in 2027. There has already been significant interest with a record number of plants at this stage now confirmed, but organisers are keen to expand the display further and are encouraging additional submissions to create the most exciting showcase yet.   Entries are welcomed across five categories: <ul type="disc"> <li>Ornamental shrubs and trees</li> <li>Edibles</li> <li>Tender, conservatory and houseplants</li> <li>Annuals and bedding plants</li> <li>Perennials, including bulbs and tubers</li> </ul> A panel of expert judges will select the best new plant in each category, with the overall winner receiving the prestigious Peter Seabrook Best New Plant Award.   The exhibit consistently attracts significant attention from both trade and consumer horticultural press, offering valuable exposure for participating breeders. In addition, plants featured have appeared on the BBC Gardeners’ World television programme each year, further amplifying visibility.   Visitors to the show also have their say, with a public vote providing exhibitors with genuine feedback from gardeners who will ultimately be buying and growing these plants.   Kevin Campbell, Production Director at Allensmore Nurseries, said: “Hot Off the Potting Bench has become a key destination for breeders and growers to showcase their new plants. It has a unique place in the world of new plants in that it generates real interest and gives us invaluable feedback from the gardening public. At Allensmore we found that the publicity generated was amazing and helped us to create more interest and sales of all the plants we entered, but particularly Dahlia Velvet Crush which won the Peter Seabrook Best New Plant Award in 2025.”   Neil Gow, organiser of the event added, “Anyone with a new plant should be entering - the process is straightforward, and we can accommodate updates or additional entries right up to the last minute.”   Don’t miss this opportunity to put your plants in the spotlight.   For entry details or to submit your plants, please contact: Neil or Nicci Gow at <a href="mailto:hotoffthepottingbench@gmail.com">hotoffthepottingbench@gmail.com</a> Dobbies’ ‘Buyer Connect’ delivers strong engagement as GIMA programme builds momentum https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/1suj2sc1hcu?lang=en&rss=true GIMA’s latest Buyer Connect event, held at Dobbies Garden Centre, Milton Keynes, has been hailed a resounding success, bringing together more than 40 suppliers for a packed schedule of one-to-one meetings with the Dobbies’ commercial buying team... 01 May 2026 12:00:00 BST b55cfc2e022fdb4d6dd956d8c3dc1147 articles top <img src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/54/c4ff8d58f31caa9a57e746.png" style="margin: 0px;" width="450" height="270" hspace="0" vspace="0" alt=""> GIMA’s latest Buyer Connect event, held at Dobbies Garden Centre, Milton Keynes, has been hailed a resounding success, bringing together more than 40 suppliers for a packed schedule of one-to-one meetings with the Dobbies’ commercial buying team... <img src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/3c/078786ab301e123b5410f2.png" style="margin: 0px;" width="530" height="350" hspace="0" vspace="0" alt="">   GIMA’s latest Buyer Connect event, held at Dobbies Garden Centre, Milton Keynes, has been hailed a resounding success, bringing together more than 40 suppliers for a packed schedule of one-to-one meetings with the Dobbies’ commercial buying team.   Designed to facilitate meaningful, commercially focused conversations, the event provided GIMA members with a valuable platform to present new ideas, showcase innovation, and explore future ranging opportunities as the retailer continues to build on its growth strategy.   Across the day, suppliers engaged directly with key decision-makers, including Andy Hannan, Commercial Director; Chris O’Boyle, Head of Trading; Liz Brennan, Head of Gardening; Graeme Shaw, Gardening Buyer; and Kirsty Stoton, Junior Buyer. Discussions spanned new product development, category expansion and emerging trends, with a clear appetite from Dobbies for fresh thinking and retail-ready innovation.   <img src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/fa/8212a524ad96c90ae39eaa.png" style="margin: 0px;" width="530" height="348" hspace="0" vspace="0" alt=""> The event also provided an opportunity for Dobbies to share its perspective on supplier collaboration and future ranging priorities.  Andy Hannan, Commercial Director for Dobbies, said: “GIMA Buyer Connect is a valuable opportunity for us to spend time with our suppliers and build on those important relationships. Bringing everyone together like this creates the space for open, honest conversations, sharing ideas, exploring trends and thinking about what our customers will love next.   “That collaboration is what helps us keep our ranges fresh, relevant and inspiring. It’s been great to make new connections as well as strengthen existing ones. We’re really looking forward to building on the momentum from the positive progress we’ve made over the past year, planning for 2027 and beyond.”   The event marks a strong continuation of GIMA’s Buyer Connect programme, which has rapidly become a cornerstone membership benefit, offering unrivalled access to leading retailers and creating tangible routes to market for suppliers.   Martin Ward, Director at GIMA, said: “This event has been a great opportunity for our members to connect with the Dobbies’ commercial buying team. GIMA Buyer Connect events support one of our core values of connecting buyers with our members and providing new opportunities for development.   “The feedback from both our members and the Dobbies’ team has been very positive, which is testament to the meticulous planning and organisation that goes into making the event a success for all involved. As my first Buyer Connect event since joining GIMA, it’s been brilliant to see first-hand the value these sessions deliver for our members and to hear feedback about the wider benefits of GIMA membership.”   The day underlined the value of face-to-face engagement, with suppliers able to build stronger relationships with the Dobbies’ team while gaining clearer insight into future ranging priorities.   <img src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/4d/f9552370b18ad9a0b4d8ee.png" style="margin: 0px;" width="530" height="347" hspace="0" vspace="0" alt=""> GIMA members who attended the event were equally positive about the experience. Rebecca Cox, Head of Retail & Online Trading, Azpects, said: “It was an incredibly well-organised event that created a valuable space for meaningful conversations and genuine connections. The opportunity to engage directly with the Dobbies’ team, gain insight into their approach, and showcase our products was both productive and inspiring. Events like this really highlight the strength of the industry and the importance of collaboration. Thank you to GIMA for bringing everyone together so effectively!”   Bella Richardson from SealStop and GIMA Innovators Seed Corn Fund winners 2025 added: “The event was extremely well-organised. Face-to-face meetings are so much more personal and friendly, and I am grateful to GIMA for offering these opportunities.”   With more Buyer Connect events already in the pipeline for 2026, GIMA members are encouraged to keep an eye on upcoming announcements as the programme continues to expand.   Find out more For more information about upcoming events, visit: <a href="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/5glo7kk1gy3/external?lang=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://gima.org.uk/calendar-of-events/</a> or email the GIMA team directly via <a href="mailto:info@gima.org.uk">info@gima.org.uk</a> National Children’s Gardening Week – Inspiring the next generation to grow https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/je06yjx9z6r?lang=en&rss=true This National Children’s Gardening Week, the Horticultural Trades Association is highlighting the benefits of gardening for young people, inspiring them, and supporting their physical activity, education and wellbeing... 01 May 2026 12:00:00 BST 3906aef1d896e4860a0c860996840d77 articles top <img src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/87/e3e0ec1f0c5cad99c67fc7.png" style="margin: 0px;" width="450" height="272" hspace="0" vspace="0" alt=""> This National Children’s Gardening Week, the Horticultural Trades Association is highlighting the benefits of gardening for young people, inspiring them, and supporting their physical activity, education and wellbeing... <img src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/80/e97c3cbe4fbe1d92547d22.png" style="margin: 0px;" width="530" height="320" hspace="0" vspace="0" alt="">   This National Children’s Gardening Week, the Horticultural Trades Association is highlighting the benefits of gardening for young people, inspiring them, and supporting their physical activity, education and wellbeing.   Recent research from the HTA’s <a title="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/86lv86n6408/external?lang=en" href="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/86lv86n6408/external?lang=en" data-outlook-id="edbd22f8-0eb3-46d2-bd8b-4c9a5de5ab9b">Value of Gardens</a> report found that children living more than a 20-minute walk from green spaces experienced two extra hours of screen time and poorer mental health than those living within a 5-minute walk. To promote participation and enhance children’s health, National Children’s Gardening Week (23 – 31 May 2026) connects families with the joy of gardening and encourages them to achieve quick results from seed sowing, planting, and other gardening activities.   Lee Connelly, The Children’s Gardening Coach, returns as National Children’s Gardening Week ambassador to inspire young minds and provide a fun, educational backdrop for a visit to a garden centre. New for 2026 is the <a title="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/1a3pwx5oaua/external?lang=en" href="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/1a3pwx5oaua/external?lang=en" data-outlook-id="88bdab27-0135-4287-9ac1-76e4d4329cde">Great Garden Centre Mystery</a>, an interactive, family-friendly adventure that leads children and their parents on a fun journey of discovery to find hidden mysteries around garden centres. The initiative encourages families to explore their local garden centre and to learn, play, and connect with gardening in a fun and imaginative way.   Families who take part in the mystery and snap a photo of themselves at the garden centre will be entered into a prize draw to win a £250 <a title="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/11fbdqf7lex/external?lang=en" href="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/11fbdqf7lex/external?lang=en" data-outlook-id="da74222b-76a4-4480-ad92-07641c823e01">National Garden Gift Card</a>, giving them the chance to continue their gardening journey at home.   Fran Barnes, Chief Executive of the Horticultural Trades Association (HTA), said: “Inspiring the next generation of gardeners is at the heart of National Children’s Gardening Week. The Great Garden Centre Mystery will be a perfect half-term activity for families, encouraging footfall, dwell time, and engagement at our member sites, while also demonstrating how accessible and enjoyable gardening can be. It encourages children to get hands-on, building confidence, skills, and curiosity that can lead to lifelong interest and, hopefully, also future careers in horticulture. We are delighted to welcome Lee Connelly back as ambassador, whose passion for children’s gardening plays a key role in bringing this initiative to life across garden centres nationwide.”   Lee Connelly said: “Garden centres are incredible places for families, and The Great Garden Centre Mystery adds a layer of adventure that gets children excited to explore. Cracking the code together creates shared memories and shows children that gardening is full of curiosity, fun, and magic.”   Get involved National Children’s Gardening Week is a fantastic opportunity for families and garden centres to celebrate the joys of gardening together. To learn more about the initiative, visit: <a title="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/29twffochfu/external?lang=en" href="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/29twffochfu/external?lang=en" data-outlook-id="c8006fd4-a260-4bed-b470-4fedebad76ae">childrensgardeningweek.co.uk</a>   For more ideas about some of the activities, visit: <a title="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/4rlgzz90mxa/external?lang=en" href="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/4rlgzz90mxa/external?lang=en" data-outlook-id="ba9a9a60-f3b5-4cd7-bc79-77da3e7b9e14">childrensgardeningweek.co.uk/fun-things-to-do</a> or download resources at <a title="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/mi8y8ux54uc/external?lang=en" href="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/mi8y8ux54uc/external?lang=en" data-outlook-id="54628a79-11db-4b30-88e6-7e8b2140847a">childrensgardeningweek.co.uk/resources-3</a> RHS Chelsea Plant of the Year shortlist announced https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/14n9ec1qeh9?lang=en&rss=true Celebrating and honouring the endeavours of growers and nurseries to bring new cultivars of the highest quality to all types of gardeners in the UK – RHS Chelsea Plant of the Year shortlists those that have demonstrated the highest innovation. 01 May 2026 12:00:00 BST 2ad94629c174a1f7d1e5dc1b1a18c86e Bottom Celebrating and honouring the endeavours of growers and nurseries to bring new cultivars of the highest quality to all types of gardeners in the UK – RHS Chelsea Plant of the Year shortlists those that have demonstrated the highest innovation. <img src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/e8/6183617fc9f00231ab5b6f.png" style="margin: 0px;" width="300" height="129" hspace="0" vspace="0" alt=""> Celebrating and honouring the endeavours of growers and nurseries to bring new cultivars of the highest quality to all types of gardeners in the UK – RHS Chelsea Plant of the Year shortlists those that have demonstrated the highest innovation.   Drought resistance, improved hardiness, increased floral vibrancy and deeper colours of foliage are all standout features from this year’s selection. The plants below can all be seen at RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2026 and the winner will be announced on Monday 18th May at 2PM at the RHS Experience Stand in The Great Pavilion.   <img src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/88/67cdc32bd389667e01befd.png" style="margin: 0px;" width="300" height="282" hspace="0" vspace="0" alt=""> Hosta RED NINJA ('Nk2021') Exhibitor: Sienna Hosta (Oliver Walker) Site Location: GPC024 Breeder: Ninja Kramer     Plant Supplier: Fairweather's Nursery Hosta RED NINJA possesses shades of dark green to strong red foliage and may be the reddest Hosta on the market – traditionally a trait well-sought after by horticulturists. This variety keeps its vibrancy into the summer and is a full plant mutation of Hosta 'First Blush'. With red petioles and a ground cover height, Hosta RED NINJA also benefits from stunning purple flowers from late summer to early autumn. Its low-maintenance nature makes it ideal for mixed borders, balconies and terraces.   <img src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/b7/436b4b4b555e1473e4b431.png" style="margin: 0px;" width="300" height="292" hspace="0" vspace="0" alt=""> Pennisetum advena TINY TAILS ('Tus022') Exhibitor: Ashcroft's Perennials and Ornamental Grasses (Chris Ashcroft)        Site Location: GPF081 Breeder: Tuszynscy Gospodarstwo Ogrodnicze and Grzegorz Tuszynski Plant Supplier: Ashcroft's Pennisetum advena TINY TAILS redefines the genus with its ultra-compact habit and profusion of soft, bottlebrush plumes. Unlike traditional Pennisetum varieties that grow large and sprawling, this selection stays neatly rounded and small, making it ideal for pocket gardens, patios and balconies. Its abundant, finely textured blooms create a full, fluffy display on a dwarf plant. TINY TAILS thrives in full sun in a well-drained soil. Watering during dry spells will maintain flowering, particularly in pots, but it is generally low maintenance once established. A mutation from Pennisetum advena 'Rubrum' in 2022.   <img src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/68/81d56e48cd630736f782bc.png" style="margin: 0px;" width="300" height="276" hspace="0" vspace="0" alt=""> Clematis QUEEN'S NURSE ('Evigsy159') Exhibitor: Raymond Evison Clematis (Andy Jeanes) Location: GPB016              Breeder: Raymond J Evison Ltd     Plant Supplier: Raymond J Evison Ltd Compact with repeat blooming - the main differentiator for QUEEN’S NURSE is that the plant produces pale pink/lilac and dark bar striped blooms on new growth and on more mature wood grows solid, deep pink blooms with little to no striped effect. Not only is this a standout cultivar with two different bloom colours from one plant, but it has been named to raise awareness and funds for two very closely linked charities, The National Garden Scheme (NGS) and The Queen's Institute of Community Nurses (QICN), where initially Raymond and a group of QICN nurses started the NGS on Guernsey to raise funds for both charities.   <img src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/34/e283a828c06e2eed533102.jpg" style="margin: 0px;" width="300" height="311" hspace="0" vspace="0" alt=""> Prunus 'Sumaura Fugenzo' Exhibitor: Blue Diamond Garden Centres (Jill Kerr)      Location: GPC033 Breeder: Unknown Plant Supplier: Frank P Matthews Trees A unique Sakura cherry, also known as JAPANESE LANTERN, with spectacular flowers that open to a yellowish white/green which gradually turn shades of light and then dark pink as they age. The flowers have 30 or more petals reminiscent of Japanese paper lanterns. Two leaf-like pistils in the centre of the flower add a unique charm to a graceful spreading medium size tree. There are no known issues with pests and in particular observations show no susceptibility to black fly aphid. There is resistance to bacterial blossom and foliage infections along with frost resistance.   <img src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/4b/90812b827ad1333c31f3db.jpg" style="margin: 0px;" width="300" height="301" hspace="0" vspace="0" alt=""> Pittosporum GREEN MOUND  ('Jule1') Exhibitor: Sparsholt College (Lucy lewis)            Location: GPD051              Breeder: Frederic Julien  Plant Supplier: Hillier Nurseries Ltd GREEN MOUND is the result of a controlled cross between two species of Pittosporum, the aim of which was to bring the habit and richly fragrant flowers of P. tobira into a hybrid with the hardiness to survive in Northern Europe reliably. This seedling exhibited a superb habit, free flowering and in trials has survived winters in both pots and gardens across France, the Netherlands and UK without signs of damage. GREEN MOUND is hardy to -12C and creates a tight evergreen mound, with the additional benefit of sweetly scented white flowers which fade to yellow, the fragrance carries well and is a big feature. It is excellent in a border or large patio container, sun loving but happy in part shade and drought resistant, the size makes it perfect for small gardens but with enough impact to stand out in any situation.   <img src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/be/83f64216b6138efbe82cc5.jpg" style="margin: 0px;" width="300" height="295" hspace="0" vspace="0" alt=""> Anisodontea capensis CARNIVAL LIGHTS CANDY APPLE ('Ib201-7') (Carnival Lights Series) Exhibitor: Sparsholt College (Lucy Lewis) Location: GPD051 Breeder: Plant Growers Australia Ltd. Plant Supplier: Hillier Nurseries Ltd This new selection has a truly unique flower colour of dark red, unlike the pink shades previously available in this genus. CARNIVAL LIGHTS CANDY APPLE is the result of a hybridisation programmes of Anisodontea in Australia which has yielded several very interesting colour breaks, highly floriferous plants with clean foliage and a neat tidy habit. The larger flowers are perfect for modern gardening that can be used as a patio or bedding plant or as a short-lived garden shrub, flowering from May through to Christmas and beyond. Its origins also make it ideal for the changing climate with superb heat and drought tolerance.   <img src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/52/55987fd807d9dfd5b2a151.jpg" style="margin: 0px;" width="300" height="317" hspace="0" vspace="0" alt=""> Hydrangea VELVET NIGHT RED LACE Exhibitor: Blue Diamond Garden Centres (Jill Kerr)      Location: GPC033 Breeder: Botanic Experience B.V. Plant Supplier: Van Son & Koot This Hydrangea represents a significant innovation with exceptionally dark red to near-black foliage, a trait uncommon in Hydrangea, combined with striking red lacecap flowers. Unlike traditional varieties that feature green leaves and softer-toned blooms, this plant offers a dramatic, high-contrast aesthetic throughout the growing season. The foliage colour is stable and intense, enhancing ornamental value even when not in flower. This Hydrangea thrives in moist, well-drained soil in partial shade. Regular watering is important, particularly in dry periods while the dark foliage colour develops best with good light levels while avoiding harsh midday sun, which may scorch leaves. Overall, it performs reliably with standard care, making it suitable for a wide range of domestic garden settings.   <img src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/35/1002950051b0e66a3a49fa.jpg" style="margin: 0px;" width="300" height="310" hspace="0" vspace="0" alt=""> Hydrangea paniculata GROUNDBREAKER® RUBY ('Lc No27') Exhibitor: Hare Spring Cottage Plants (Stella Exley) Location: GPC028              Breeder: Alex Schoemaker              Plant Supplier: Suttons GROUNDBREAKER® RUBY is the first true groundcover form of Hydrangea paniculata with ruby-red flowers in late summer, redefining how this traditionally upright shrub can be used in the garden. Its naturally low, spreading habit is unlike any existing paniculata. Combined with vivid ruby-red flowers, it delivers both structural and seasonal interest in a completely new format. Highly disease resistant, showing minimal issues with pests or diseases; being exceptionally reliable and low maintenance. GROUNDBREAKER® RUBY is easy to grow and highly adaptable. Plant in sun to partial shade in well-drained soil for best flowering and colour intensity. Its naturally low, spreading habit requires little to no pruning, simply tidy lightly in early spring if needed. Compared to traditional upright Hydrangea paniculata, this variety reduces maintenance by eliminating the need for shaping or staking.   <img src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/24/8486edcf56cbe85c27220d.jpg" style="margin: 0px;" width="300" height="296" hspace="0" vspace="0" alt=""> Jamesbrittenia 'Jammin' Coral' Exhibitor: Kernock Park Plants (Bruce Harnett) Location: GPD052 Breeders: Proven Winners Europe                 Plant Supplier: Proven Winners Europe ‘Jammin’ Coral’ works fantastically in landscapes with good drainage as well as in containers of all kinds - making wonderful components in combinations. The plant offers a brilliant performance on patios, troughs and planters. Repeat-flowering throughout the summer months and not requiring deadheading make ‘Jammin’ Coral’ easy to care for with low to no maintenance. Heat and drought tolerant. Can be planted in full sun and free-draining soil/media.   <img src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/48/cbc2ba4989d4d2a9f239e4.jpg" style="margin:0px;" width="300" height="307" hspace="0" vspace="0" alt=""> Antirrhinum 'Shiryu Kiss' Exhibitor: Kernock Park Plants (Bruce Harnett) Location: GPD052 Breeder: Peter Moore Plant Supplier: Peter Moore Antirrhinum ‘Shiryu Kiss’ is truly perennial in nature, and flowers over a very long season. It has proven to be significantly resistant to rust, a common disease of Antirrhinum, and also to powdery mildew. The non-stop flowering in season provides an essential buffet for our at-risk pollinators. In agreement with the breeder, 100% of royalties from sales of this plant will go to Perennial, the horticultural charity (Gardeners' Royal Benevolent Society) – dedicated to helping people in horticulture facing every day, or life-changing challenges.   <img src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/8c/14e0779a330a1954c02776.jpg" style="margin: 0px;" width="300" height="285" hspace="0" vspace="0" alt=""> Cercis griffithii BLUE LAGOON ('Rafmar 1') Exhibitor: Hare Spring Cottage Plants (Stella Exley) Location: GPC028 Breeder: Raf Lenaerts      Plant Supplier: Thompson & Morgan Cercis griffithii BLUE LAGOON represents a colour breakthrough; the first grey-blue foliage ever seen in Cercis, transforming it from a spring bloomer into a full-season design feature, offering a cool, contemporary palette suited to modern gardens. It’s also climate resilient, tolerating heat, sun, and variable conditions, while remaining easy and low maintenance. The distinctive grey-blue foliage holds well through the season, with good tolerance to both heat and moderate cold once established. Water regularly during establishment, then only during prolonged dry periods. Minimal pruning is required. Ideal as a specimen compact tree, well branched shrub or in mixed borders, it brings long-lasting structure and colour with very little effort.   <img src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/4b/01c82adadbcafae2bea53b.jpg" style="margin: 0px;" width="300" height="289" hspace="0" vspace="0" alt=""> Clematis 'Minamo-no-Yousei' Exhibitor: Sparsholt College (Lucy Lewis)           Location: GPD051              Breeder: Tetsuya Hirota  Plant Supplier: Thompson & Morgan Clematis 'Minamo-no-Yousei', also known as MOCHI, offers real novelty, with brushed, spray-like blooms that change in form over a 120-plus day flowering season. Early single flowers are more accessible to visiting insects, before later blooms develop into distinctive double forms. Its compact habit suits containers, small gardens and vertical planting. Its easy, low-maintenance nature fits modern gardens. Pruning in early spring encourages fresh growth and supports its long flowering season of 120 days. Compared to traditional Clematis, its compact habit makes it easier to manage and perfect for patios and urban gardens. The continuously changing flowers provide extended interest without additional maintenance.   <img src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/c4/a7393af69c356cb5acef00.jpg" style="margin: 0px;" width="300" height="278" hspace="0" vspace="0" alt=""> Dicentra 'Passion Hearts' Exhibitor: Gardeners Delight Nursery (Nicholas Wade) Location: GPF096               Breeder: Hans Hansen from Walter Gardens            Plant Supplier: Gardeners Delight Nursery Dicentra ‘Passion Hearts’ offers a step change for gardeners, transforming Dicentra from a niche, shade-loving perennial into a versatile, sun-performing garden staple. Its continuous flowering for 150+ days, high bud count, and striking bicolour blooms provide exceptional garden value across a long season. Combined with refined foliage and adaptability to well-drained, sunny sites, it meets the demand for resilient, low-maintenance plants suited to changing climates. It delivers both innovation and strong visual appeal, making it highly relevant for contemporary planting schemes.   <img src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/ac/f783fe77505d4dbc78757c.jpg" style="margin: 0px;" width="300" height="300" hspace="0" vspace="0" alt=""> Streptocarpus 'Sirius' Exhibitor: Dibleys Nurseries (Paul Dibley)          Location: GPD057                                Breeder: Lynne Dibley      Plant Supplier: Dibleys Nurseries This fully double variety produces vast numbers of large, inky purple flowers with deep purple veins over a pale-yellow base. Early flowering, quick growing, and exceptionally vigorous and floriferous over a very long season. ‘Sirius’ produces sterile flowers that last significantly longer than standard streptocarpus blooms, dramatically reducing the need for deadheading. These extended flowering displays require minimal maintenance. Flower markings intensify over several days. Streptocarpus 'Sirius' matches and surpasses Streptocarpus 'Harlequin Blue'—the inaugural Chelsea Plant of the Year winner in 2010—cementing decades of excellence in British breeding.   <img src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/57/2e5ec0e7d6dd0a3e4e9942.jpg" style="margin: 0px;" width="300" height="308" hspace="0" vspace="0" alt=""> Rosa AMIROSE ('Korhulth005') Exhibitor: Hare Spring Cottage Plants (Stella Exley)    Location: GPC028        Breeder: Kordes Roses              Plant Supplier: Hillier Nurseries Ltd AMIROSE is a unique new variety offering a compact ground cover hybrid form of Rosa persica with fragrant flowers produced all summer long. Flowers start as peach-coloured buds, opening to a beautiful pink with a purple heart. AMIROSE will flower for 175 days and is a drought tolerant and healthy species. Easy to grow, extremely disease resistant, fragrant and drought tolerant it is ideal for containers, borders and mass landscape plantings. Prune back with shears to shape in early spring and summer to reduce size.   <img src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/e2/8414c108bf13525865ab26.jpg" style="margin: 0px;" width="300" height="283" hspace="0" vspace="0" alt=""> Anthurium MICHELLE® Exhibitor: Growtropicals (Jacob James) Location: GPF077               Breeder: Dr Jeff Block Plant Supplier: Growtropicals Anthurium MICHELLE® boasts striking, heart-shaped leaves with a luscious, glossy sheen that instantly adds elegance to any space. Its vibrant green foliage is adorned with intricate veins, creating a mesmerising pattern that draws the eye and invites closer inspection. In medium-filtered light, Anthurium MICHELLE® has an extraordinarily dark emergent leaf with purple veins that evolve into burgundy-black hues with contrasting white veins. The distinctive backside of the leaf evolves from emergent purple, lightening through lavender hues. Anthurium MICHELLE® isn't just a feast for the eyes—it's also a joy to care for. With its resilient nature and low-maintenance requirements, it thrives with less humidity and watering requirements than other Anthurium foliage plants on the market.   <img src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/a2/04db3d5a699759a7b02200.png" style="margin: 0px;" width="300" height="300" hspace="0" vspace="0" alt=""> Rosa WATFORD FOREVER ('Harjester') Exhibitor: Harkness Rose Company (Rachelle Kent) Location: GPB022 Breeder: Philip Harkness                  Plant Supplier: Harkness Rose Company WATFORD FOREVER achieves multiple incremental advances in one variety of a notoriously difficult colour range. A strong petal structure holds a beautiful shape, a pointed bud and opening with a gloriously bright bloom with access for insects. The rigid petals give form throughout, lengthening the flower life. The plant possesses exceptional hardiness against winter damage for the colour, surviving low winter temperatures. The foliage nodes are at close intervals, giving a well-furnished plant with an abundance of leaf. WATFORD FOREVER is easy to grow and accessible to many gardeners.   <img src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/45/d4196b3197cabb98557093.jpg" style="margin: 0px;" width="300" height="287" hspace="0" vspace="0" alt=""> Euphorbia × martini WALBERTON'S® LITTLE TREASURE® ('Waleulitr') Exhibitor: Lee Connelly & Leigh Johnstone (Lee Connelly)     Location: GPF092 Breeder: Walberton Plants Limited               Plant Supplier: Walberton Plants Limited Euphorbia × martini WALBERTON'S® LITTLE TREASURE® is the world’s first all yellow-leaf variety of Euphorbia × martini. The foliage is brightest yellow in early spring, before becoming green-yellow through the summer months. As the autumn nights turn colder, the yellow colouring returns and the tips of each stem develop a beautiful rusty-orange colour before the plant turns bright yellow again for the following spring. In addition, WALBERTON'S® LITTLE TREASURE® also produces clustered heads of yellow-green flowers with red nectaries in spring, often producing a second flush of flower in mid-summer. It is particularly well-suited to container cultivation, perhaps in combination with other bold plants such as dark-leaf Heuchera varieties or an arching grass. WALBERTON'S® LITTLE TREASURE® has a very compact and branching habit, making a neat dome-shaped plant. https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/e8/6183617fc9f00231ab5b6f.png Two shortlisted plants from Thompson & Morgan https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/1xw38m23eh0?lang=en&rss=true Both of Thompson & Morgan's entries for the RHS Chelsea Plant of the Year Award 2026 have been shortlisted, representing a notable achievement in one of horticulture’s most respected awards... 01 May 2026 12:00:00 BST 8fcae39b286dcfadcd635d06053cb1dd Bottom Both of Thompson & Morgan's entries for the RHS Chelsea Plant of the Year Award 2026 have been shortlisted, representing a notable achievement in one of horticulture’s most respected awards... Both of Thompson & Morgan's entries for the RHS Chelsea Plant of the Year Award 2026 have been shortlisted, representing a notable achievement in one of horticulture’s most respected awards.    The online seed and plant retailer, with a heritage in plant introduction dating back to 1855, continues to draw on its horticultural expertise to identify and develop distinctive new varieties with genuine value for gardeners.    The shortlist includes <a title="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/268xk8iueuw/external?lang=en" href="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/268xk8iueuw/external?lang=en" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-outlook-id="9d5eef40-4953-43a5-b791-16bec971e942">Cercis ‘Blue Lagoon’</a> and <a title="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/11u5ia92jfz/external?lang=en" href="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/11u5ia92jfz/external?lang=en" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-outlook-id="850bc2db-c30a-4db8-a0b1-b3bbe2b860f3">Clematis 'Minamo-no-Yousei' (Mochi)</a>.   <img src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/3a/ae417c320bcce0aa1c468a.png" style="margin: 0px;" width="530" height="190" hspace="0" vspace="0" alt=""> <a title="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/jvr30v46ocn/external?lang=en" href="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/jvr30v46ocn/external?lang=en" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-outlook-id="98b022b9-eeb3-451f-9097-4b8d482e316a">Cercis ‘Blue Lagoon’</a> breaks new ground as the first Cercis to feature distinctive grey-blue foliage, a colour never previously seen in the genus. This cool-toned foliage contrasts strikingly with its pink spring flowers and provides interest well beyond the flowering period. Compact and resilient, it is well-suited to both small gardens and mixed borders, delivering year-round impact with minimal maintenance.   <img src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/6f/f64000cffa9c6fb2b38668.png" style="margin: 0px;" width="530" height="191" hspace="0" vspace="0" alt=""> <a title="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/1bvtr7i3uhw/external?lang=en" href="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/1bvtr7i3uhw/external?lang=en" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-outlook-id="e96edd19-5b33-4e49-9baf-540bf95bd8bb">Clematis 'Minamo-no-Yousei'</a>, also known as Clematis 'Mochi', introduces a unique transformation in bloom, with delicately brushed flowers that begin as single blooms before developing into more complex double blooms over time. With an exceptionally long flowering period of more than 120 days, it delivers a constantly changing display through the season. Its compact, versatile nature makes it ideal for containers, small gardens and vertical planting. https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/8e/105a690caaecd56c0da49a.png Euphorbia Walberton’s Little Treasure makes shortlist https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/1s9rageb7nv?lang=en&rss=true The RHS Chelsea Plant of the Year 2026 Shortlist includes the already- popular Euphorbia x martini Walberton’s® Little Treasure® (WALEULITR)... 01 May 2026 12:00:00 BST 21a9c69d5dbf0cc00227cd1175e1409d Bottom <img align="left" src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/d3/4b6336bbac07d02499480f.jpg" style="margin: 10px;" width="150" height="139" hspace="10" vspace="10" alt="">The RHS Chelsea Plant of the Year 2026 Shortlist includes the already- popular Euphorbia x martini Walberton’s® Little Treasure® (WALEULITR)... <img src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/f7/33acb757f61ee9716a671d.jpg" style="margin: 0px;" width="530" height="578" hspace="0" vspace="0" alt="">   The RHS Chelsea Plant of the Year 2026 Shortlist includes the already- popular Euphorbia x martini Walberton’s® Little Treasure® (WALEULITR).   Launched in 2025, this variety made an impression with both the trade and consumers for its year-round interest.   Developed in the UK by the team at Walberton Plants, Euphorbia Walberton’s® Little Treasure® is a compact and versatile Euphorbia that brings year-round interest to gardens and containers. Its bright yellow foliage is a standout feature, providing a vibrant splash of colour from spring through early summer. As temperatures cool, the growing tips take on a warm copper hue, adding a seasonal twist to its visual appeal. But this plant is not just about looks; its hardy nature and adaptability make it a practical choice for a variety of settings.   See Euphorbia Walberton’s® Little Treasure® in The Classroom Garden Designers Lee Connelly (The Children’s Gardening Coach) and Leigh Johnstone (The Beardy Gardener) will be including Walberton’s® Little Treasure® within their show garden, The Classroom Garden, this year.   Lee Connelly said: “Euphorbia Walberton’s® Little Treasure is a perfect example of the kind of plant we need more of in children’s gardening, something that’s tough, dependable and still brings real beauty into a space. In The Classroom Garden, every plant has to work hard, not just visually, but educationally too. This is a plant that helps us show children and schools that gardening doesn’t have to be complicated to be inspiring.”   As a fun and vibrant plant, Euphorbia Walberton’s® Little Treasure® is a great choice. The colour changing leaves and unusual flowers of this plant are sure to be a hit with curious youngsters visiting the show.   The Walberton’s plant breeding programme The team at Walberton’s have a reputation for plant breeding excellence. Started by the late great David Tristram in 1973, the breeding is now led by Eva Erhart. Over the years, the Walberton’s team has developed and launched countless fantastic varieties, including Scabiosa ‘Butterfly Blue’, Spiraea ‘Magic Carpet’, Ajuga ‘Black Scallop’ and many more.   The launch of Euphorbia x martini Walberton’s® Little Treasure® is the latest from this team’s outstanding plant breeding, showcasing innovation and dedication to excellence. With its unique characteristics and undeniable charm, this new variety is poised to make a big impact in gardens everywhere.   Questions about Euphorbia Walberton’s® Little Treasure®? Get in touch at <a href="mailto:hello@plantsforeurope.com">hello@plantsforeurope.com</a> <a href="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/1wenyl0l4br/external?lang=en">www.plantsforeurope.com</a>   Prunus ‘Sumaura Fugenzo’ JAPANESE LANTERN shortlisted https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/b6geqccv5o8?lang=en&rss=true Frank P Matthews Trees has announced that Prunus ‘Sumaura Fugenzo’ JAPANESE LANTERN™ has been shortlisted for the prestigious RHS Chelsea Plant of the Year Award 2026... 01 May 2026 12:00:00 BST 8bbb235800117a62e95402bba0f1773d Bottom Frank P Matthews Trees has announced that Prunus ‘Sumaura Fugenzo’ JAPANESE LANTERN™ has been shortlisted for the prestigious RHS Chelsea Plant of the Year Award 2026... <img src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/fb/59c453d46d1d6141492340.jpeg" style="margin: 0px;" width="530" height="560" hspace="0" vspace="0" alt="">   Frank P Matthews Trees has announced that Prunus ‘Sumaura Fugenzo’ JAPANESE LANTERN™ has been shortlisted for the prestigious RHS Chelsea Plant of the Year Award 2026.   This exceptional ornamental cherry will be showcased at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2026 within the Blue Diamond Garden Centres exhibit in the Great Pavilion, where it will be featured exclusively as part of an ambitious and immersive planting scheme.   First discovered in Sumaura Park in Kobe, Japan in 1990, this exceptional flowering cherry has been carefully nurtured and brought to market by Frank P Matthews Trees. Prunus ‘Sumaura Fugenzo’ JAPANESE LANTERN™ stands out for its extraordinary, multi-tonal blossom display. Its densely double, lantern-like flowers with up to 30 petals each, emerge in soft green and creamy white, gradually transitioning through blush tones before deepening to rich pink as they mature.   The tree offers more than just spring interest with bronze young foliage which matures to fresh green, vibrant autumn colour, fragrant blooms, it performs reliably across most UK conditions, thriving in a wide range of soils.   " We’re absolutely thrilled to see Prunus ‘Sumaura Fugenzo’ JAPANESE LANTERN™ shortlisted for RHS Chelsea Plant of the Year 2026. It’s such a special flowering cherry, with multiple colours on one tree, and it represents years of dedication to bringing truly exceptional varieties to market. We’re incredibly proud to see it recognised on this stage.”   The Plant of the Year award celebrates the most exciting and innovative new plants launched at the show, judged on their uniqueness, impact, and appeal to gardeners. Being shortlisted highlights the exceptional nature of this variety and its potential to become a future garden favourite. The tree will be proudly displayed on the Blue Diamond stand during the show, highlighting the variety’s significance as a valuable and distinctive ornamental tree for British gardens.   Prunus ‘Sumaura Fugenzo’ JAPANESE LANTERN™ has already proven its impact within the horticultural world. It won Best in Show at the HTA National Plant Show where judges praised it as a “remarkable breakthrough in blossom colour,” highlighting its unique progression of tones within a single bloom.   Now, its shortlisting for RHS Chelsea’s Plant of the Year 2026 places it among the most exciting new plant introductions in the UK.   For more information on Prunus ‘Sumaura Fugenzo’ JAPANESE LANTERN™ visit: <a href="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/162ddb58bal/external?lang=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://www.frankpmatthews.com/news/a-rare-beauty-in-bloom-prunus-japanese-lantern/</a>   Find the Prunus Prunus ‘Sumaura Fugenzo’ JAPANESE LANTERN™ on display at The Blue Diamond Stand in the Great Pavillion and the New Products Area at the Royal Chelsea Flower Show 19-23 May 2026 https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/0f/e7fe7d73ec57fc062db241.jpeg GrowTropicals named UK's official supplier of DocBlock Anthuriums https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/piwwjlihb65?lang=en&rss=true GrowTropicals has been confirmed as the UK's official supplier of DocBlock® Anthuriums for 2026 and beyond. The announcement comes alongside news that one of the programme's flagship cultivars, Anthurium Michelle®, has been shortlisted for the RHS Chelsea Plant of the Year Award... 01 May 2026 12:00:00 BST 263a5d39e0493a2991139d7510f7b249 Bottom <img align="left" src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/85/0b5255dae93cb324b28993.png" style="margin: 10px;" width="150" height="166" hspace="10" vspace="10" alt="">GrowTropicals has been confirmed as the UK's official supplier of DocBlock® Anthuriums for 2026 and beyond. The announcement comes alongside news that one of the programme's flagship cultivars, Anthurium Michelle®, has been shortlisted for the RHS Chelsea Plant of the Year Award... <img src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/8f/4e00ba15a3ecd3653982c8.png" style="margin: 0px;" width="530" height="468" hspace="0" vspace="0" alt="">   GrowTropicals has been confirmed as the UK's official supplier of DocBlock® Anthuriums for 2026 and beyond. The announcement comes alongside news that one of the programme's flagship cultivars, Anthurium Michelle®, has been shortlisted for the RHS Chelsea Plant of the Year Award.   The DocBlock® line is bred by Dr Jeff Block in Florida and is widely regarded as one of the most significant Anthurium breeding projects of the last decade. Anthurium Michelle® is its best-known cultivar, recognisable for its colourful emergent leaves, dark mature foliage, striking venation, and improved vigour. The F3 generation took Best New Flowering Plant at the 2022 Tropical Plant International Expo (TPIE) and has since become a benchmark variety for serious Anthurium collectors.   The RHS Chelsea Plant of the Year Award recognises new or improved plants that push the boundaries of horticulture. For GrowTropicals, the inclusion of an indoor foliage plant on the shortlist is a meaningful moment for the houseplant category.   “We’ve always believed houseplants, and especially foliage houseplants, deserve to be on the same stage as garden plants at shows like Chelsea,” said Jacob James, Founder of GrowTropicals. “Working directly with Jeff and bringing his latest plants to the UK market is incredibly exciting, and this is only the first step. Lots more announcements to come.” Shortlist stars among Hillier’s new plant launch https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/1isux7bnadf?lang=en&rss=true Hillier Nurseries [ https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/7ugz38va3bk/external?lang=en ] is bringing four new plant varieties to the market for 2026, chosen for their performance, versatility and appeal across a range of different garden styles... 01 May 2026 12:00:00 BST 9a51a5d694ed7d4c4d988cfac524cee2 Bottom <a title="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/7ugz38va3bk/external?lang=en" href="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/7ugz38va3bk/external?lang=en" data-outlook-id="a7aae650-1c63-4e45-9d6a-292e6e4bd3d4">Hillier Nurseries</a> is bringing four new plant varieties to the market for 2026, chosen for their performance, versatility and appeal across a range of different garden styles... <a title="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/7ugz38va3bk/external?lang=en" href="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/7ugz38va3bk/external?lang=en" data-outlook-id="a7aae650-1c63-4e45-9d6a-292e6e4bd3d4">Hillier Nurseries</a> is bringing four new plant varieties to the market for 2026, chosen for their performance, versatility and appeal across a range of different garden styles.   These introductions reflect the latest trends in breeding, offering extended flowering, distinctive colours and robust growth. Available from May 2026 at Hillier Garden Centres, these varieties have been carefully grown and trialled to ensure they thrive in UK conditions – with three also shortlisted for the prestigious RHS Chelsea Flower Show Plant of the Year award.   <img src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/34/518a4dff15d61cf7c7464e.png" style="margin: 0px;" width="530" height="393" hspace="0" vspace="0" alt=""> Rosa persica ‘Amirose’ (Korhulth 005) Compact, floriferous and full of character, ‘Amirose’ is a standout new persica rose with a real garden presence. Its peach-toned buds gradually unfurl into soft pink blooms, each centred with a rich purple eye, creating a striking contrast that evolves as the flowers mature. Compact and highly floriferous, ‘Amirose’ is a persica hybrid that stands out with semi-double blooms in peach and pink tones, each with a striking purple eye. Its exceptionally long flowering period, over five months, makes it well suited to borders, containers and mixed planting schemes. <ul> <li>Height and spread: 40cm high and 50cm across</li> <li>Aspect: Prefers full sun to light shade</li> <li>Soil type: Fertile, well-drained soil</li> <li>Hardiness: To -18 ºC</li> </ul> <img src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/34/251c23947efdd82c533221.png" style="margin: 0px;" width="530" height="464" hspace="0" vspace="0" alt=""> Pittosporum tobira x heterophyllum ‘Green Mound’ (Jule1) ‘Green Mound’ is a sterile hybrid between P. tobira and P. heterophyllum, combining the best traits of both species. Its naturally rounded habit and dense, glossy foliage provide year-round structure. A key feature of this variety is its exceptionally free-flowering nature, producing an abundance of highly fragrant blooms over an extended period in spring. The flowers open white and gradually mature to soft yellow, creating a luminous effect that helps to lift and brighten planting schemes. Ideal for hedging, low screening or as a standout specimen in contemporary planting schemes. <ul> <li>Height and spread: 150cm high and 150cm across</li> <li>Aspect: Prefers full sun to light shade</li> <li>Soil type: Most free-draining soils</li> <li>Hardiness: To -12 ºC</li> </ul> <img src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/ad/fac424855ecf61d1a87a59.png" style="margin: 0px;" width="530" height="419" hspace="0" vspace="0" alt=""> Anisodontea ‘Candy Apple’ Bold and long-flowering, ‘Candy Apple’ delivers deep red blooms from late spring through to autumn, and beyond in mild winters. Sun-loving and drought-tolerant, it performs well in borders and containers, providing colour and structure with minimal maintenance. <ul> <li>Height and spread: 80cm high and 60cm across</li> <li>Aspect: Prefers full sun to light shade</li> <li>Soil type: Most free-draining soils</li> <li>Hardiness: To -5 ºC</li> </ul> <img src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/eb/6051edcd9d8b2358218711.png" style="margin: 0px;" width="530" height="491" hspace="0" vspace="0" alt=""> Nepeta x hybrida ‘Serene Wild Orchid’ This new hybrid, bred by Dummen Orange, brings a contemporary twist to the popular catmint family, with clear pink flowers on a compact, well-branched plant with dense spikes. Long flowering and low maintenance, it’s ideal for borders, pollinator-friendly schemes or mixed plantings. <ul> <li>Height and spread: 40cm high and 40cm across</li> <li>Aspect: Prefers full sun to light shade</li> <li>Soil type: Fertile, well-drained soil</li> <li>Hardiness: To -10 ºC</li> </ul> Adam Dunnett, Production and Amenity Director, said: “Our 2026 introductions showcase a range of plants with long-lasting colour, distinctive form and reliable performance. From the striking blooms of ‘Amirose’ to the structural presence of ‘Green Mound’ and the bold tones of ‘Candy Apple’, each variety has been carefully selected to deliver impact and consistency in the garden. We are especially proud that three of these introductions have been shortlisted for the prestigious RHS Chelsea Flower Show Plant of the Year award, and we’re thrilled to be introducing them to consumers.”   All new Hillier plants will be available at Hillier Garden Centres and online from May 2026.   For more information, visit <a href="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/u6r0wphbljo/external?lang=en">www.hillier.co.uk</a> https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/f7/8a7c7befdc920412451f7e.png Get your copy of GTN Xtra https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/1myrdu7qo8d?lang=en&rss=true with all the news direct to your e-mail inbox... 26 Nov 2015 12:00:00 GMT ee7dd8a89af22d785f0c7a24df026e31 articles bottom Right Side Articles Cover with all the news direct to your e-mail inbox... <img src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/9c/76add21cca1076fdb5ea4c.jpg" width="175" height="80" alt=""> with all the news direct to your e-mail inbox.  The best news service every weekend and all the breaking news as it happens. <a href="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/1hob62bp67v?lang=en" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Subscribe for free using this link</a> https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/72/cfe8045849763806b673c4.jpg Colour & creativity: Burgon & Ball at Chelsea https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/16v0h8evlsn?lang=en&rss=true Burgon & Ball will be throwing a spotlight on the colour and creativity of gardening at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show... 01 May 2026 12:00:00 BST 054cbd30cc3ac61279e54c92b80675b8 articles bottom <img src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/7b/5b39ca8874b01bb5b8643e.jpeg" style="margin: 0px;" width="450" height="291" hspace="0" vspace="0" alt=""> Burgon & Ball will be throwing a spotlight on the colour and creativity of gardening at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show... <img src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/7e/c2e86ff0f99806e32466af.jpeg" style="margin:0px;" width="530" height="354" hspace="0" vspace="0" alt="">   This May in its 29th year at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show, Burgon & Ball will be throwing a spotlight on the colour and creativity of gardening. As a creator of beautiful garden tools and accessories since 1730, Burgon & Ball’s exhibit at the world’s most famous flower show will highlight the artistic side of gardening.   Artist’s palettes, an easel, and mounds of vibrant flowers will feature, conjuring a joyful and creative feel to reflect the way gardeners use colour in their gardens. The display aims to inspire the thousands of keen gardeners thronging the show.   The stand will once again be located on Main Avenue, in among the show gardens. Burgon & Ball tools are the only garden tools to carry the prized RHS endorsement. These two respected names in gardening have worked closely together since 2012, with many tools designed in collaboration and tested in the RHS gardens.   Rainer Schubert, MD at Burgon & Ball, comments: “The RHS Chelsea Flower Show is a fantastic occasion for us to highlight our longstanding collaboration with the RHS, with some gardeners perhaps experiencing our brand for the first time.”   He continues: “It’s also a unique way to engage with the gardeners who use and love our tools. In fact, our fluorescent RHS-endorsed FloraBrite collection was inspired by Chelsea visitors asking for unlosable tools. The show is a great source of ideas from real gardeners.”   Stand visitors this year will be able to explore a variety of ranges, including the new RHS-endorsed BoronGreen tools. The unique proposition of this collection is that it combines superior performance thanks to its use of boron steel, combined with impressive sustainability credentials.   Also at the show, visitors will be able to see selected items from the new design collection in the much-loved RHS Gifts for Gardeners series, ‘Woodland Wonders’. The 12-piece new collection takes inspiration from the growing love for natural woodlands and for woodland gardens, which are sure to feature at the show.   Plus of course Burgon & Ball’s flagship ranges of stainless steel and cutting tools will be featured, as will FloraBrite tools, Kneelo® kneelers, children’s tools, indoor gardening, indoor watering, gardening gifts and the very handy Essential Tools collection of planting and propagation sundries. The breadth of Burgon & Ball’s ranges, together with the exciting new launches, are sure to create a buzz with the Chelsea crowds.   Burgon & Ball will be on Main Avenue at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show, Stand CW/310. New men’s shed opens at Castle Gardens https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/1wxpa23s6lv?lang=en&rss=true The Green Shed Sherborne was officially opened by the Mayor of Sherborne, Jill Warburton. Situated at the back of Castle Gardens, this new Men’s Shed is now open every Tuesday from 10am-3:30pm, offering adults a safe and inclusive space to make, repair and repurpose items for community projects. 01 May 2026 12:00:00 BST 2addf7f96db377499cc6f938eecd2fd3 articles bottom <img src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/e9/4410f601c372f9dec7b5a7.png" style="margin: 0px;" width="450" height="296" hspace="0" vspace="0" alt=""> The Green Shed Sherborne was officially opened by the Mayor of Sherborne, Jill Warburton. Situated at the back of Castle Gardens, this new Men’s Shed is now open every Tuesday from 10am-3:30pm, offering adults a safe and inclusive space to make, repair and repurpose items for community projects. <img src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/42/8afe18a2dd55e89861e693.png" style="margin: 0px;" width="530" height="349" hspace="0" vspace="0" alt="">   The Green Shed Sherborne was officially opened by the Mayor of Sherborne, Jill Warburton (above left). Situated at the back of Castle Gardens, this new Men’s Shed is now open every Tuesday from 10am-3:30pm, offering adults a safe and inclusive space to make, repair and repurpose items for community projects. Antony Chambers, chairman of The Green Shed Sherborne, says: “Around a year ago, I attended a public forum meeting at Castle Gardens where UK Men’s Sheds representatives shared their vision for bringing this nationally recognised format to Sherborne. I was inspired to get behind this initiative, and after a year of building a team and refurbishing the space, we are now ready for applications. We are operating from The Green Shed, which once provided a workshop for adults with learning difficulties and will once again be a safe and inclusive space for adults to come and socialise while taking part in making, repairing and repurposing projects.” Mike Burks, managing director of The Gardens Group, adds: “We’re delighted to see The Green Shed Sherborne open at Castle Gardens, as it is going to provide such a valuable resource for the community. We’re looking forward to seeing the building become a hive of activity once again, giving people a space to help improve their mental and physical wellbeing.” The Green Shed Sherborne is open every Tuesday from 10am – 3:30pm and is now accepting members for £12 a year. Application forms can be completed at <a href="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/3p68ticpl0i/external?lang=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">thegreenshedsherborne.co.uk</a>. Phil Tremayne crowned joint Landscaping Champion https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/79mxl5z3rkr?lang=en&rss=true Phil Tremayne, General Manager of the Association of Professional Landscapers, has been awarded the title of ‘Landscaping Champion’ at the Pro Landscaper Business Awards alongside Mark Gregory, from Landform Consultants... 01 May 2026 12:00:00 BST 4b6062bf516b03c418c7790348eea46d articles bottom <img src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/7b/ce77ff91189a3e97ee10d5.jpeg" style="margin: 0px;" width="450" height="270" hspace="0" vspace="0" alt=""> Phil Tremayne, General Manager of the Association of Professional Landscapers, has been awarded the title of ‘Landscaping Champion’ at the Pro Landscaper Business Awards alongside Mark Gregory, from Landform Consultants... <img src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/16/45ea1bda1be4508e2e1699.jpeg" style="margin: 0px;" width="530" height="318" hspace="0" vspace="0" alt="">   Phil Tremayne, General Manager of the Association of Professional Landscapers, has been awarded the title of ‘Landscaping Champion’ at the Pro Landscaper Business Awards alongside Mark Gregory, from Landform Consultants.   A new category introduced this year, the Landscaping Champion award, recognised the person or people who made a difference and helped to showcase the value of the landscaping sector by going above and beyond.  The judging process considered the views of the judging panel and the industry through an open vote.   In the hotly fought category, the judges decided that both Phil Tremayne and Mark Gregory should be awarded joint Landscaping Champions, as one of the winners narrowly won the judges' vote and the other narrowly won the public vote.   Phil was praised for his passion for the industry, for acting as a “father figure for his membership community”, and for establishing himself as “a heavyweight within the industry”. The judges also noted that he goes out of his way to help and support members by offering advice, strengthening relationships and interactions among HTA landscaping members and the wider industry, and advocating for and raising standards.   During the awards ceremony at Old Billingsgate, London, on 24 April 2026, Phil Tremayne said: “Winning this award today means everything to me, and just to be nominated by my friends and colleagues is a huge honour. I’ve worked in this industry for over 30 years, so being recognised in this way really feels like a big hug from my extended family of landscapers. Thank you to everyone who voted for me, and of course, to my very good friend Mark Gregory - I couldn’t think of a better person to share this award with.”   Phil has worked at the Horticultural Trades Association since 2010 and has led the Association of Professional Landscapers, the HTA’s specialist group of designers, landscapers and professional gardeners, for more than 10 years.   David Denny, Director of Research and Knowledge Transfer at the Horticultural Trades Association (HTA), said: “Phil’s incredible dedication to our members and to landscaping in general is matched only by his expertise. As you can see from the judges' comments, our members hold him in high esteem, as do all his colleagues. This award illustrates just how much Phil contributes to landscaping, the HTA and the whole industry. Congratulations Phil!” Rowlinson Group marks centenary milestone https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/heq24lhrx77?lang=en&rss=true Rowlinson Group, one of the UK’s most enduring family-owned timber and garden specialists, has launched its centenary campaign, celebrating 100 years of heritage, quality, and innovation... 01 May 2026 12:00:00 BST b0cc82826303dfb7042c2b586145094d articles bottom <img src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/87/cfb127b67b193cb5d59b6a.png" style="margin: 0px;" width="450" height="364" hspace="0" vspace="0" alt=""> Rowlinson Group, one of the UK’s most enduring family-owned timber and garden specialists, has launched its centenary campaign, celebrating 100 years of heritage, quality, and innovation... <img src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/ac/4e1eee3d8e51dbe55e3de0.png" style="margin: 0px;" width="530" height="429" hspace="0" vspace="0" alt="">   Rowlinson Group, one of the UK’s most enduring family-owned timber and garden specialists, has launched its centenary campaign, celebrating 100 years of heritage, quality, and innovation.   Established in 1926, the Group is marking its 100th anniversary by celebrating the diverse family of brands that have made it a cornerstone of the British timber industry. <h3>The Rowlinson Family of Brands</h3> What began a century ago as a timber sales agency in Manchester has evolved into a global operation encompassing several industry-leading brands. To celebrate the centenary, the Group is spotlighting the unique roles each subsidiary plays within the timber ecosystem: <ul> <li>Rowlinson Garden Products: The Group’s flagship consumer brand and a leading UK manufacturer and importer. Known for iconic designs like the shiplap shed and contemporary garden rooms, it continues to define outdoor living for homeowners across the country.</li> <li>Rowlinson Packaging: Established in 1966, this division provides bespoke and standard timber packaging solutions, from wirebound containers to high-strength pallets, protecting goods for the automotive, technology, and defence sectors.</li> <li>Rowlinson Packaging (South): A specialist leader in agricultural food storage, providing vital solutions such as ventilated potato boxes for the UK’s farming industry.</li> <li>Baltic Connexions (Bertilo): Based in Estonia, this international arm manufactures premium timber garden buildings under the Bertilo brand and exports innovative designs to end users across Europe and North America, Asia and Australasia.</li> </ul> <h3>The 100-Year Competition</h3> To thank the customers and partners who have been part of their journey, Rowlinson has launched a major centenary competition. They are celebrating 100 years with over £20,000 worth of garden prizes to be won. Running through the end of May, the competition offers participants the chance to win one of 100 of the brand’s most beloved products.   <h3>Win a Piece of Rowlinson History</h3> The competition features 100 premium garden prizes from the Rowlinson range, offering 100 lucky winners the chance to transform their outdoor spaces. Highlights from the extensive prize pool include luxury Vienna and Prestbury lounger sets, elegant St. Tropez and Florence canopies, and complete six-seater dining sets. Also up for grabs are a variety of garden essentials, including hardwood plant stands and durable metal deck boxes, offering a diverse range of high-quality rewards for every garden. Entrants can find full details and enter the competition at the dedicated anniversary hub: <a href="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/fswwbtczwcc/external?lang=en">https://www.therowlinsonstory.com/100-year-competition</a> <h3>A Legacy for the Future</h3> "Reaching our 100th year is a moment of immense pride for our family and employees," said Jimmy Rowlinson, Chairman of Rowlinson Group. "From my grandfather’s first timber yard in 1926 to our current focus on sustainable manufacturing and carbon reduction, we have always been defined by the quality and design of our wooden products and the strength of our relationships. This campaign is a tribute to the craftsmanship that has sustained us for a century and the innovation that will carry us through the next one." <h3>About Rowlinson Group</h3> Headquartered on a 20-acre site in Wardle, Cheshire, Rowlinson Group remains a family-owned and operated business. With operations spanning manufacturing, importing, and e-commerce, the Group is committed to the sustainable use of timber and maintaining the highest standards of British craftsmanship. Youth jury revealed for AIPH World Green City Awards 2026 https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/hn5lrp7l6ud?lang=en&rss=true To recognise the impact of urban greening on future generations, 14 young professionals have come together as the Youth Jury for the AIPH World Green City Awards 2026... 01 May 2026 12:00:00 BST 503b989dbc2897e8efe3e3007b3fc2d4 Right Side Articles Cover To recognise the impact of urban greening on future generations, 14 young professionals have come together as the Youth Jury for the AIPH World Green City Awards 2026... <img src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/cf/1b2c723ca46f3143be69cb.png" style="margin:0px;" width="530" height="365" hspace="0" vspace="0" alt="">   The future of green cities is being shaped today and young voices are an essential part of that change. To recognise the impact of urban greening on future generations, 14 young professionals have come together as the Youth Jury for the AIPH World Green City Awards 2026. These young leaders lend a forward-looking perspective on today’s decision-making to promote cities that put youth and nature at the heart of urban development.   Initiated by the International Association of Horticultural Producers (AIPH) and supported by its network of Green City Partners, the AIPH World Green City Awards champion ambitious nature-orientated approaches to city design and operation. The Awards demonstrate how plants and horticulture contribute to healthier, more resilient, and more liveable cities.   The AIPH Youth Award was established in partnership with the Global Youth Biodiversity Network (GYBN). It recognises city greening initiatives that inspire the next generation to actively participate in the global green city movement, enabling stronger connections between cities and their youth populations.   Representing a diverse range of disciplines and geographies, the Youth Jury brings together young leaders with a shared interest in greener, healthier, and more resilient cities. The role of the Youth Jury is to review the Awards Finalists against a set of criteria developed in collaboration with GYBN, and to select the three initiatives most likely to inspire the next generation and tackle the challenges most pressing for people under 35 years old. From this shortlist, one city will win the AIPH Youth Award.    Winner of the 2024 Youth Award, the City of Joondalup empowered young adults to embrace active lifestyles by providing enhanced green spaces, skate parks, and sporting grounds. Through youth mayoral workshops and environmental programmes, local young people actively shaped the City’s Strategic Community Plan, gaining hands-on management skills while advocating for increased urban canopy and conservation.   The members of the 2026 Youth Jury are: <ul> <li>Sara Al Jarwan Al Shamsi, Chief Engineer, Roads and Transport Authority Dubai, UAE</li> <li>Amirah Dawood, Student - Environmental Sustainability MA, University of Dundee, UK</li> <li>Rita Carolina de Olivera, Superintendent, Public Consortium for Solid Waste Management, Brazil</li> <li>Chansovichea Duch, Director of Sustainable Urban Development and Design, Sustainable Design 11, Cambodia</li> <li>Vera Feeny, Program Manager, Children and Nature, National League of Cities, USA</li> <li>Ismail Kara, Youth Environmental advocate/practitioner and researcher, Global Youth Biodiversity Network (GYBN), Kenya</li> <li>Sneha Mahapatra, Communications Intern, Salzburg Global, Austria</li> <li>David Marín, Director, Deliflor Americas, Colombia</li> <li>Francesca Mazza, Landscape Architect, What’s That Green?, Italy</li> <li>Andrea Oyuela, Program Manager - Solar for All, Harris County, USA</li> <li>Maitri Shah, Student - Landscape Architecture MA, CEPT University, India</li> <li>Claudia Tan, Teaching Assistant, National University of Singapore, Singapore</li> <li>Henil Vashi, Horticultural Advisor, Robin Tacchi Plants, UK</li> <li>Marko Yau, Graduate Landscape Architect, UK</li> </ul> Commenting on her appointment to the Youth Jury, Francesca Mazza said: "As a young Landscape Architect, I was driven to join the AIPH World Green City Awards 2026 Youth Jury to champion innovative, plant-powered solutions that secure healthy futures for my generation and beyond. Witnessing urban greening’s transformative power has fuelled my conviction that nature-based solutions (NBS) are vital against climate and social challenges. The Awards spotlight global best practices in biodiversity, climate resilience, and inclusive communities, inspiring entries I’ve studied avidly."   The winner of the AIPH Youth Award 2026 will be announced at the AIPH World Green City Awards Ceremony. Further details will be confirmed shortly. https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/0b/3397c8eb74d045f7771bc7.png HTA secures Ed Byrne as headline evening host for 2026 Conference https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/1cx0cdx8ai7?lang=en&rss=true The Horticultural Trades Association has announced that comedian and broadcaster Ed Byrne will be the evening host and after-dinner speaker at Horticulture, The Conference 2026, which will take place on Thursday, 24 September 2026, at the Barbican Centre, London. 01 May 2026 12:00:00 BST e7a045a9377972ce4004453a47004436 Right Side Articles Cover The Horticultural Trades Association has announced that comedian and broadcaster Ed Byrne will be the evening host and after-dinner speaker at Horticulture, The Conference 2026, which will take place on Thursday, 24 September 2026, at the Barbican Centre, London. <img align="right" src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/7e/42112a053f7fc083111ec3.png" style="margin: 0px;" width="200" height="307" hspace="0" vspace="0" alt="">The Horticultural Trades Association has announced that comedian and broadcaster Ed Byrne will be the evening host and after-dinner speaker at Horticulture, The Conference 2026, which will take place on Thursday, 24 September 2026, at the iconic Barbican Centre, London. The event is one of the industry’s flagship annual gatherings, with planning well underway.   Byrne will also host this year’s prestigious Grower of the Year Awards, which celebrate excellence, innovation and achievement across UK environmental horticulture, recognising growers and businesses helping to shape the industry's future.   In a fitting connection to the sector, Byrne originally studied horticulture in Glasgow before becoming one of the UK’s most recognisable stand-up comedians and television personalities.   Known for his sharp observational humour and engaging presentation style, Byrne will bring wit and warmth to the annual dinner, which follows a day of expert discussions, strategic insight and valuable networking opportunities for professionals from across the environmental horticulture industry.   Ed has filmed this short video to accompany the announcement:   [ https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/pxvhezynzbt/external?lang=en ]   Fran Barnes, Chief Executive of the HTA, said: “We are delighted to welcome Ed Byrne as our after-dinner speaker and host of the Grower of the Year Awards at Horticulture, The Conference 2026. Ed’s intelligence, humour and stage presence make him a brilliant fit for what is always one of the event's standout moments.   “Horticulture, The Conference brings together experts from across and beyond the industry for a day of insight, strategy and connection, and we hope that everyone leaves feeling informed, supported in their professional journey, confident in the future of the sector, and inspired to take action and grow.   “Then in the evening, not only are we set for a fun speech from Ed, but the Grower of the Year Awards are a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the innovation, professionalism and resilience we see across UK horticulture, and we’re looking forward to a memorable evening.”   With early-bird bookings now open for the full Conference and more speakers still to be revealed, Byrne’s announcement marks the start of what promises to be a standout event for 2026.   Secure your place at Horticulture, The Conference now HTA members can take advantage of an early bird booking rate by securing their place now at <a title="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/1czdit1y3z1/external?lang=en" href="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/1czdit1y3z1/external?lang=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" data-outlook-id="f4aeeb0d-824d-4661-bddb-1dcc02c37015">hta.org.uk/conference</a>   Find out more about the Grower of the Year Awards at <a title="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/1nyryr6wsx7/external?lang=en" href="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/1nyryr6wsx7/external?lang=en" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-outlook-id="883abe22-6164-4cfd-a6bf-2669c20d7cff">hta.org.uk/goty</a> https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/d1/1059d19d18fd912ce2b007.png BHETA to host webinar with B&Q https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/1enemzsxzns?lang=en&rss=true BHETA is to host a webinar on 7th May at 11am, focusing on the scale and strength of B&Q as one of the UK’s leading Home, DIY and Garden retailers. 01 May 2026 12:00:00 BST 5795ed5870c90e55eaf82299429443a9 Right Side Articles Cover BHETA is to host a webinar on 7th May at 11am, focusing on the scale and strength of B&Q as one of the UK’s leading Home, DIY and Garden retailers. <img src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/70/73c2553ed3bfbdca216fbf.png" style="margin: 0px;" width="530" height="256" hspace="0" vspace="0" alt="">   BHETA is to host a webinar with B&Q, focusing on the scale and strength of B&Q as one of the UK’s leading Home, DIY and Garden retailers. Within that context there will be a focus on how the B&Q Marketplace is becoming an increasingly important route to growth for brands and sellers. The BHETA event takes place on 7th May at 11:00 am.   The session will explore what sets B&Q apart, where growth is happening, and the role of high-intent traffic, Click + Collect, retail media and key trading events. It will also highlight how the Marketplace is expanding the B&Q offer, creating new opportunities across both core and complementary categories.   During the webinar, Lucas Christiano, Strategic Partnership Lead at B&Q, will outline how straightforward it is to get started on the marketplace and how existing sellers can further optimise their performance.  He will share key onboarding steps for new partners, as well as practical best practice advice for Home, DIY and Garden businesses looking to grow efficiently.   B&Q is Kingfisher’s core UK home-improvement and garden-living retail banner, operating an omnichannel model that links a large store estate with diy.com, TradePoint and a fast-scaling marketplace. The business has over 300 UK & Ireland stores, more than 21,000 colleagues, and reaches more than 20 million customers annually, with TradePoint counters in around 200 stores for professional tradespeople. Marketplace is now a growth engine: launched in 2022, features 2,000+ sellers and 2M+ products, driving 45% of B&Q’s e-commerce sales (2025/26). With £1bn+ GMV since launch and 44% annual growth, it connects brands to a rapidly expanding audience.   Steve Edwards, BHETA’s Sector Manager (DIY & Gardening), commented: “It’s well worth taking an hour for this webinar to understand B&Q’s position in the market, and how B&Q is tackling e-commerce. I’d really encourage BHETA members to join us on 7th May.”   To register for the event or for more information visit <a href="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/1sxydnb4sy9/external?lang=en">https://www.bheta.co.uk/events/selling-on-b-q-marketplace-opportunities-for-home-diy-garden-brands</a> or contact the BHETA Member Services team on 0121 237 1130.  More details about other BHETA events, including webinars, Meet the Buyer sessions, and networking forums with leading retailers, are also available on the website. https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/70/73c2553ed3bfbdca216fbf.png UK, European and International Associations make joint call for SPS deal delivery at landmark event https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/1fiv1rnwp2r?lang=en&rss=true The Horticultural Trades Association (HTA), Union Fleurs, the European Nurserystock Association (ENA), VGB and Royal Anthos joined forces at the EU’s embassy in London for Flowers and Plants of Europe - a landmark industry event to showcase horticulture and floriculture and discuss their shared ambition for a UK-EU reset... 01 May 2026 12:00:00 BST 2f7990ed3d4433f06b28495a67ecdb5e Right Side Articles Cover The Horticultural Trades Association (HTA), Union Fleurs, the European Nurserystock Association (ENA), VGB and Royal Anthos joined forces at the EU’s embassy in London for Flowers and Plants of Europe - a landmark industry event to showcase horticulture and floriculture and discuss their shared ambition for a UK-EU reset... <img src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/68/aba7b154fe23b7590456a2.png" style="margin: 0px;" width="530" height="300" hspace="0" vspace="0" alt="">   The Horticultural Trades Association (HTA), Union Fleurs, the European Nurserystock Association (ENA), VGB and Royal Anthos joined forces at the EU’s embassy in London for Flowers and Plants of Europe - a landmark industry event to showcase horticulture and floriculture and discuss their shared ambition for a UK-EU reset.   With negotiations ongoing and an EU-UK leaders’ summit expected to be a key moment for the deal in July, the associations are working closely to ensure their members can help shape an outcome that supports the future competitiveness of the entire floriculture and horticultural supply chains.   Together, the associations reiterated their joint call on both EU and UK policymakers: <ol start="1" type="1"> <li>Swiftly deliver and implement a robust EU-UK SPS Agreement fully covering horticulture and floriculture products that will secure frictionless trade whilst maintaining biosecurity standards, unlock longer-term opportunities and benefit both businesses and consumers.</li> <li>Involve sector associations to ensure that this Agreement will be grounded in technical details and operational feasibility and offer workable and effective solutions that genuinely resolve the challenges and frictions our supply chains have been navigating over the last few years.</li> <li>Introduce urgent pragmatic measures in both the EU and the UK until the SPS Agreement comes into force to offer immediate vital relief to businesses and stabilise supply chains, such as check rate reductions and other measures to reduce unnecessary costs and burdens.</li> </ol> Jennifer Pheasey, Director of Policy and Public Affairs at the Horticultural Trades Association (HTA), said: “Smooth, swift and biosecure supply chains are critical to the competitiveness of UK environmental horticulture. We share the ambition for an EU-UK reset, and that early, pragmatic steps can be taken by both the UK and the EU to ease costs and pressure and pave the way for growth opportunities, including for UK exports.   “By working in partnership, collaboratively and constructively, we believe we can unlock much-needed green growth for all those involved in horticultural supply chains, and deliver for UK gardeners, green spaces and support healthier communities.”   Sylvie Mamias, Secretary General of Union Fleurs – International Flower Trade Association, said: “In today’s turbulent environment for international supply chains, the future EU–UK SPS Agreement represents a vital opportunity to restore confidence and optimism for operators in the flowers and plants sector on both sides. By reducing cross-border frictions and providing greater clarity of rules and predictability, it will deliver immediate and tangible relief for businesses while unlocking new opportunities for sustainable growth. Beyond their economic value, flowers and plants make a meaningful contribution to society by enhancing wellbeing, supporting greener and more liveable environments, and strengthening people’s connection with nature.   “We are very grateful to the Delegation of the European Union to the UK for highlighting with us the beauty, diversity, and wide-ranging benefits of flowers and plants, and for providing us with visibility and a highly valuable platform to promote continued cooperation and growth across the industry.”   Tim Van Hulle, President of ENA, said: “The ongoing SPS negotiations are in the final straight. We’ll welcome smoother operations for EU nurseries exporting to the UK, as well as improved access for UK nurseries to the EU.   “The agreement will reduce administrative burdens and restore efficient supply chains, benefiting the EU and UK nurseries. We are looking forward to the signing date of the agreement.”   Mark Jan Terwindt, CEO of Royal Anthos, said: “In the fast-changing global landscape, it goes without saying that strong cooperation with neighbours is a necessity, not a luxury. Reaching the SPS-agreement shows there is common ground for such a cooperation, both in the EU and the UK.   “Reaching an agreement is, however, not a finish line, but a starting point to implement the advantages of a low-cost green corridor, with all needed phytosanitary guardrails. This will give the small and intermediate enterprises on both sides of the channel the opportunity to grow into a base for prosperity for the region. With a healthy environment in both the Public and Private landscapes and gardens as a tangible result.”   Tim Rozendal, Strategic Advisor, VGB, said: “The event is a great opportunity to underline the value of flowers and plants for people, society and the environment.   “As cooperating sector representatives, we are committed to improving trade flows, ensuring supply chains remain efficient, reliable and future-proof, to the benefit of businesses at both sides of the Channel. Our joint call for an SPS agreement is grounded in this shared commitment, and we will continue working together to support its delivery.   “Dutch traders and UK businesses are close and long-standing trade partners. A strong agreement will help further strengthen these ties, ultimately benefiting UK consumers.” https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/68/aba7b154fe23b7590456a2.png Entries open for the RECOUP Awards 2026 https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/ucatevik1gw?lang=en&rss=true Entries are now open for the RECOUP Awards 2026, honouring the organisations and initiatives driving progress across plastics resource efficiency, recycling, and circularity... 01 May 2026 12:00:00 BST fe001b0894dfcb297ee321808ad31a9b Right Side Articles Cover Entries are now open for the RECOUP Awards 2026, honouring the organisations and initiatives driving progress across plastics resource efficiency, recycling, and circularity... <img src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/49/b499066638233c7f78b162.png" style="margin: 0px;" width="530" height="299" hspace="0" vspace="0" alt="">   Entries are now open for the RECOUP Awards 2026, honouring the organisations and initiatives driving progress across plastics resource efficiency, recycling, and circularity. These awards highlight the cutting‑edge innovation, design excellence, and impactful projects shaping the future of plastics.   Entries for all award categories are FREE and remain open until 26 June 2026, offering businesses, community groups, and innovators the opportunity to showcase their work on a national platform.   Recognising Impact Across the Plastics Value Chain The RECOUP Awards spotlight contributions spanning technology, design, packaging, community initiatives, and system‑wide change. Categories include: <ul type="disc"> <li>Best Innovation in Equipment or Technology – celebrating breakthroughs that enhance the collection, sorting, reprocessing, or reuse of plastics.</li> <li>Recycled Plastic Product of the Year – honouring products that champion recycled content and inspire circular design.</li> <li>Plastics Circularity Project of the Year – recognising projects that advance circularity through design, technology, community initiatives, or system improvements.</li> <li>Best Plastic Product Development for Recyclability or Re‑Use – highlighting design approaches that embed reuse or recyclability from the start. </li> </ul> A Premier Industry Event The shortlist will be announced week commencing 10 August with winners announced at the RECOUP Awards & Networking Dinner on 30 September 2026 at the Holiday Inn Peterborough – West. The evening brings together leaders from across the plastics value chain for celebration, networking, and knowledge‑sharing.   Why Enter? Entrants that get shortlisted benefit from: <ul type="disc"> <li>National recognition for excellence in plastics resource efficiency, recycling and circularity</li> <li>Increased visibility among policymakers, industry decision‑makers, recyclers, and innovators</li> <li>Opportunities to share success stories and inspire further progress across the sector</li> </ul> The awards form part of RECOUP’s ongoing mission to drive forward innovation, collaboration, and practical action that supports a circular plastics system.   How to Enter Entries can be submitted via the RECOUP Awards page at: <a href="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/ysqpwv5t7xn/external?lang=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://www.recoup.org/recoup-awards-2026/</a> Submission is FREE and open until 26 June 2026. https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/da/4aacd2526897ab4edb5dfc.png Widdop and Co. bolsters sales force https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/vp99d1lbqif?lang=en&rss=true Leading award-winning giftware wholesaler Widdop and Co. has announced the appointment of three highly experienced Territory Managers: Sharon Davinson, Carolyn Corish, and Andray Prior... 01 May 2026 12:00:00 BST 988f4a04f144dbe81256e79d49d692e3 Right Side Articles Cover Leading award-winning giftware wholesaler Widdop and Co. has announced the appointment of three highly experienced Territory Managers: Sharon Davinson, Carolyn Corish, and Andray Prior... Leading award-winning giftware wholesaler Widdop and Co. has announced the appointment of three highly experienced Territory Managers: Sharon Davinson, Carolyn Corish, and Andray Prior.   As Widdop and Co. continues to strive for growth in 2026, these strategic appointments underscore the company's commitment to providing unparalleled support and industry expertise to its diverse independent retail partner base across the United Kingdom.   Meet the New Appointments   <img src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/13/75dc4e45e52e74f4be2afb.jpg" style="margin: 0px;" width="275" height="255" hspace="0" vspace="0" alt=""> Sharon Davinson – Territory Manager, East Midlands & Surrounding Regions Sharon joins the team from APAC Group Limited, bringing a formidable reputation as a "sales and purchasing queen." With extensive experience across the home, gift, and Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) sectors, Sharon is known for her commercial acumen and her passion for building lasting customer relationships. Her expansive territory includes the East Midlands, North Wales, Merseyside, Cheshire, and South Yorkshire. <img src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/9a/e862580083131e7c15f58c.jpg" style="margin: 0px;" width="275" height="254" hspace="0" vspace="0" alt=""> Andray Prior – Territory Manager, Home Counties, London & East Anglia Andray is a seasoned professional with nearly 20 years in sales, Andray joins Widdop from Warmies. Her expertise spans across independent gift and toy shops, garden centres, and high-level Key/National Accounts. Andray will be the dedicated point of contact for the Home Counties, North and East London, and East Anglia, helping retailers navigate Widdop’s extensive brand portfolio. <img src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/d2/a093552f60bb84698a01e6.jpg" style="margin: 0px;" width="275" height="262" hspace="0" vspace="0" alt=""> Carolyn Corish – Territory Manager, North of England Carolyn is taking the lead for the North of England, bringing a wealth of knowledge to the role.  With three decades of gift industry experience, including running her own successful retail store, Carolyn offers a unique perspective of what retailers really need from a supplier. She is dedicated to working closely with both independent and multi-site partners to find the perfect bespoke product selections to drive shared success, while delivering the gold standard service levels that are the hallmark of Widdop and Co.   Dan Illingworth, Managing Director of Widdop and Co., commented on the new hires: "We are very excited to welcome Sharon, Andray, and Carolyn to the team, their combined wealth of experience, spanning nearly two decades in sales and deep roots in the gift and FMCG sectors, will be invaluable as we continue to evolve. Our goal has always been to provide our retailers with more than just products, but with a partnership that helps their businesses thrive. With these three powerhouse appointments, we are better equipped than ever to deliver that promise across the country." https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/00/ffae4ba8db89b6494d18fb.png spoga+gafa 2026: European expertise characterises the outdoor decoration section https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/trqcdsozitb?lang=en&rss=true At spoga+gafa 2026, the focus of outdoor decoration, a key segment of the theme world Living, will be on European manufacturers and suppliers. From 22 to 24 June, the leading global trade fair for garden lifestyle and BBQ will bring the most important players of the garden industry together in Cologne... 01 May 2026 12:00:00 BST b90bee84b6f294af69521654fea41c2c Right Side Articles Cover At spoga+gafa 2026, the focus of outdoor decoration, a key segment of the theme world Living, will be on European manufacturers and suppliers. From 22 to 24 June, the leading global trade fair for garden lifestyle and BBQ will bring the most important players of the garden industry together in Cologne... At spoga+gafa 2026, the focus of outdoor decoration, a key segment of the theme world Living, will be on European manufacturers and suppliers. From 22 to 24 June, the leading global trade fair for garden lifestyle and BBQ will bring the most important players of the garden industry together in Cologne. These include many members of the European Floral and Lifestyle Suppliers Association (EFSA) as well as a strategically coordinated pottery industry alliance from Italy. As the international industry platform, spoga+gafa will specifically unites suppliers with European design and manufacturing expertise in the outdoor decoration section. This creates a clearly structured offer for the trade, providing orientation and opening up new approaches for distinguished, quality-driven product ranges. "European exhibitors stand for design quality, reliability and innovative power – attributes that are decisive for the trade today. They especially offer valuable inspiration for differentiated product ranges in the outdoor decoration section. At spoga+gafa the trade audience meets suppliers, who satisfy precisely these demands," said Claudia Maurer, Director der spoga+gafa. EFSA: Trends, innovations and practical retail concepts EFSA has been a partner of spoga+gafa for years and spans an important bridge between the industry and the trade. The focus lies on trends, product innovations and implementable retail concepts. A key meeting point within EFSA's area in Hall 9 is the EFSA Cafe, which serves as a place for exchange and networking. Next to it, an experience-oriented concept store invites visitors to engage in a multisensory journey: a shift of perspective from virtual to emotional, to the physical, sensual product experience through to their integration into the retail context. Frank van der Heide, Director of EFSA, says: "As EFSA we are proud of our unique collaboration with spoga+gafa. In 2026, EFSA will again be prominently present at spoga+gafa both as a group and as individual suppliers. In addition to the EFSA lounge, this year we will again realize a concept store. This time a unique combination of technology, experience, nature, and retail inspiration. Very interesting for retailers to see how in the physical store, with technology and real greenery, an experience can be created where people will be surprised and inspired." EFSA members that have already registered include Baltus Bloembollen, Capi Europe, Dijk Natural Collections, Edelman, Esschert Design, Lumiz, NDT International, Tel International, Ter Steege, Van der Leeden Mandwerk and the ZB Group. "Corte Italia": Bundled design expertise from Italy A further highlight is an Italian group of exhibitors, who are jointly designing the "Corte Italia" area for the first time. The participating companies have been exhibiting at spoga+gafa for many years and are now uniting the leading manufacturers from the sections plant pots and decorations made from materials like terracotta, ceramic or recycled plastic as a strategically coordinated industry alliance. Their joint appearance creates a compact overview of line-ups and trends from Italy. M. Eng. Stefano Mele, CEO of Nuova Deroma and exhibitor of Corte Italia emphasised this: "We are excited to participate in the 2026 edition of the Koelnmesse spoga+gafa, an international showcase of excellence where we will preview our new product collections for the 2027 season. Deroma will be present at Hall 9, in a special area, “Corte Italia”, dedicated to Italian manufacturing. This highly distinctive and recognizable space will showcase several Italian companies, representing a single, unmistakable voice for quality and design, truly at the forefront of the garden industry." The participating companies include Degrea, Epoca, Euganea Vasi, Euro3Plast, Garden Service, I.C.S. Ind Costr. Stampi, IDeL, Metallurgica Buzzi, Nicoli, Nuova Deroma, Stefanplast, Telcom, Vaseria di Casteggio and Veca. Strengthening Europe as a procurement market With the targeted integration of European exhibitor groups, spoga+gafa is underscoring the significance of Europe as a reliable procurement market. This grants the specialised trade direct access to high-quality line-ups that can be clearly positioned and provide a competitive edge on the market https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/f2/a56300aa9a6efde36512ec.png https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/f2/a56300aa9a6efde36512ec.png The best of last week's https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/1g8nghd1a95?lang=en&rss=true If you missed last week's GTN Xtra, below are the most-read stories... 13 Oct 2017 12:00:00 BST 6825811315bd7347818a8e256dc59974 Right Side Articles Cover If you missed last week's GTN Xtra, below are the most-read stories... https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/7c/5269485c399169905a3a63.jpg A season of TV advertising from Westland https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/gnza6b26clo?lang=en&rss=true Boost, the All-Purpose Liquid Plant Feed, and Resolva, the nation’s No.1 weedkiller brand, from Westland Horticulture, are returning to TV screens this May across the UK and Ireland, as part of a major seasonal media investment designed to drive consumer demand and increase footfall into garden centres at peak trading time... 24 Apr 2026 12:00:00 BST 0e5c1ae1719298e5c3edb7f1b73c35b1 Right Side Articles Cover Boost, the All-Purpose Liquid Plant Feed, and Resolva, the nation’s No.1 weedkiller brand, from Westland Horticulture, are returning to TV screens this May across the UK and Ireland, as part of a major seasonal media investment designed to drive consumer demand and increase footfall into garden centres at peak trading time... <img src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/d9/4ebaeda5d1d908aad01693.jpg" style="margin: 0px;" width="530" height="263" hspace="0" vspace="0" alt="">   Boost, the All-Purpose Liquid Plant Feed, and Resolva, the nation’s No.1 weedkiller brand, from Westland Horticulture, are returning to TV screens this May across the UK and Ireland, as part of a major seasonal media investment designed to drive consumer demand and increase footfall into garden centres at peak trading time.   Boost is celebrating its fifth consecutive year of national TV advertising, helping cement its position as a trusted plant feed delivering visible results for gardeners. This spring, the dedicated 20-second advert will run across high-reach channels including Channel 4 and Sky in the UK, alongside RTÉ and Virgin Media Television in Ireland, targeting lifestyle and gardening audiences. Running from 1st to 24th May, the campaign is expected to reach almost 30 million consumers and will be supported by video-on-demand activity and influencer-led social mediathroughout the season, ensuring sustained visibility at the point when gardeners are actively feeding plants and refreshing containers.   The advert highlights Boost’s standout promise: 4x more blooms, plus more fruits and vegetables, thanks to its unique formulation. Featuring PLANTSENSE technology, Boost delivers an ideal balance of nutrients and enhanced water management. The campaign is designed to drive repeat purchase behaviour and support strong in-season sales momentum for retailers.   <img src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/6e/8fa280b8725bd61172102a.png" style="margin: 0px;" width="530" height="298" hspace="0" vspace="0" alt=""> Resolva Xtra Fast Weedkiller Ready To Use will also return to TV screens this May, marking its 16th consecutive year of national advertising investment, highlighting the problem of nuisance weeds and reinforcing itself as the simple solution for fast results.    Running from 4th to 31st May across ITV1, Channel 4 and Sky in the UK, alongside RTÉ and Virgin Media Television in Ireland, the campaign will again reach over 30 million consumers, reinforcing its status as a trusted solution within the weed control category. Additional support through broadcast video-on-demand platforms including All4, Sky and Amazon will further extend campaign reach.   This sustained investment continues to drive category participation and strengthens Resolva’s position as the trusted solution for gardeners looking for fast, effective weed control, helping retailers capture demand during peak weed-treatment periods.   Keith Nicholson, Marketing Director, at Westland Horticulture, commented: “We continue to invest in our brands to support our retail partners and drive consumers into the categories during the key spring/summer selling window. With strong national TV coverage behind both Boost and Resolva, retailers can stock with confidence knowing there is significant consumer demand being generated at exactly the right time in the season.”   Boost All Purpose Liquid Plant Feed and Resolva Xtra Fast Weedkiller Ready To Use are available to order 24/7 via Westland Live, with convenient in-season top-ups to help retailers maximise availability and sales opportunities throughout the peak gardening period.  https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/01/3f3356f3b696a83419a1ba.jpg Highfield Garden World top team welcomes Robert Kitt https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/ebsh1xx56yp?lang=en&rss=true Family independent Highfield Garden World in Gloucestershire has welcomed one, and said goodbye to another important member of their team – both of whom have been connected with the business for many decades... 24 Apr 2026 12:00:00 BST b78afc941c88c927546e93f8769d0839 Right Side Articles Cover Family independent Highfield Garden World in Gloucestershire has welcomed one, and said goodbye to another important member of their team – both of whom have been connected with the business for many decades... <img src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/3d/2cb80387c25a5fab4f9c81.jpeg" style="margin: 0px;" width="530" height="398" hspace="0" vspace="0" alt="">   Family independent Highfield Garden World in Gloucestershire has welcomed one, and said goodbye to another important member of their team – both of whom have been connected with the business for many decades.   Having left his Area Sales Manager role at LeisureGrow after 20 outstanding years, Robert Kitt has joined Highfield’s sales team.  The move comes soon after Account Manager Stella Gray retired from Highfield after 45 years of dedicated service, although the moves are entirely unrelated.   Saturday job 30 years ago Robert Kitt’s association with Highfield reaches back 30 years, when he had a Saturday job at the family independent. That experience blossomed into a long-standing relationship with the founding Greenway family, and an illustrious career elsewhere in the trade.  Highfield’s Managing Director and Co-founder Tim Greenway commented;  “We are thrilled to be welcoming Robert back into the business after three decades. With his positivity, and his broad industry knowledge and network, we have no doubt he’ll prove a real asset to our experienced in-house team”.    <img align="right" src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/99/c77ee472e9462943ea0f0b.jpeg" style="margin: 10px;" width="175" height="190" hspace="10" vspace="10" alt="">Part of Highfield’s history Meanwhile, after 45 years working within the lead team at Highfield, Account Manager Stella Gray has retired. Having studied horticulture at Pershore, Stella joined in 1980 when the business sold mail order plants only, and had just 35 staff. It now boasts 115. Highfield Garden World garden centre was launched in 1992, and as the business grew exponentially, so did Stella’s role and influence. Highfield Director and Co-founder Joan Greenway commented; “Stella was our right-hand woman for 45 fantastic years! As a family developing and running a rapidly expanding business, we really benefitted from her professionalism and her calming influence.  Always honest, always discreet, and with an incredible memory and head for figures, she has been a valuable sounding board, and a big part of Highfield’s success. We miss her greatly.”  https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/21/a8b1bf6c1afe5e2b0dfe56.jpeg Matthew Biggs awarded RHS’ highest honour https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/7vq58euzvbv?lang=en&rss=true Gardener, writer and broadcaster Matthew Biggs has been presented with the RHS’ most coveted People Awards – the Victoria Medal of Honour (VMH) – recognising and celebrating his extensive services to horticulture... 24 Apr 2026 12:00:00 BST cb4f1457cf15784a11b4404208e6eebb Right Side Articles Cover Gardener, writer and broadcaster Matthew Biggs has been presented with the RHS’ most coveted People Awards – the Victoria Medal of Honour (VMH) – recognising and celebrating his extensive services to horticulture... <img src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/95/6977eb5b7c1ab1773a5390.jpg" style="margin: 0px;" width="530" height="430" hspace="0" vspace="0" alt="">   Gardener, writer and broadcaster Matthew Biggs has been presented with the RHS’ most coveted People Awards – the Victoria Medal of Honour (VMH) – recognising and celebrating his extensive services to horticulture.   The VMH recognises British gardeners deserving of special honour by the Society. Past recipients include HRH King Charles II, Beth Chatto and David Austin.   The RHS Council presented Matthew Biggs with his VMH amid his ongoing cancer care, during which he has discussed the solace found in gardening and taken to fundraising and spearheading the creation of a space for fellow patients to enjoy at Mount Vernon Cancer Centre in Hertfordshire.   Matthew’s career spans five decades; from his training at Kew Gardens to a 35-year stint as BBC Radio 4 Gardeners’ Question Time panellist. In that time he has also published over 20 gardening books, lectured trainee gardeners, gardening groups and horticultural societies at home and abroad and volunteered with organisations including Plant Heritage. He is also a member of the RHS Woody Expert Group and an RHS Show Judge.   More recently Matthew has become an advocate for gardening and wellbeing, involving himself in projects promoting the therapeutic benefits of gardening and supporting healthcare environments, including the redevelopment of the gardens at Mount Vernon.   The VMH ceremony was hosted at RHS Garden Wisley by Tim Upson and presented to Matthew Biggs by long-time friend Roy Lancaster VMH.   Matthew Biggs VMH said: “I’m totally overwhelmed to have received this award when, in my mind, I’ve just been having fun and learning new things alongside great people. Plants are rather like people, they grow together in beds and borders, supporting and complimenting each other. Who can fail to be inspired by them?”   Tim Upson, RHS Director of Gardens and Horticulture, said: “I first met Matt 40 years ago as a student. To this day I always remember him being so welcoming, a fellow enthusiast to talk about plants. Matt has a natural ability to build connections between people and gardens through his enthusiastic and endearing but always practical guidance.”   Roy Lancaster VMH, added: “Today Matt adds to his list of accolades, the ultimate award. He is a credit to himself and the profession and a star to fans, family and all who love plants. His empathy and ability to understand and connect with all gardeners is a rare quality.”   All RHS People Awards require formal nomination, accompanying statements of support and approval from the RHS Council. Special dispensation was given by the RHS Council for the awarding of the 64th VMH outside of the annual People Awards event.   For more information visit: <a id="OWAdc5ec9dd-920c-5764-4e21-548b47c5bba5" title="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/1agdckfyn98/external?lang=en" href="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/1agdckfyn98/external?lang=en" data-outlook-id="c140d723-cac7-41c1-899d-75a3e8541877">RHS People Awards / RHS</a>For more information on the garden at Mount Vernon Cancer Centre visit: <a id="OWA9cbf6e60-fa98-26f3-3043-c5b4ef16e3e0" title="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/1qnl84zrtm6/external?lang=en" href="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/1qnl84zrtm6/external?lang=en" data-outlook-id="1b1a3ea4-4475-4aaa-9e36-f0407691e643">www.justgiving.com/campaign/mountvernongardenproject</a> https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/e7/7a95e1a0ddc55884761e36.jpg Four generations of excellence: Tools built to last a lifetime https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/nelyaewg3en?lang=en&rss=true Like all the best ideas, Greenman Garden Tools originally started in a shed. In 1974, Don and Eileen Winter began forging garden tools with a simple philosophy: create tools so good they'll be cherished and passed down through generations. Today, as a fourth-generation family business, we've taken that same commitment to quality and built something gardeners are actively seeking out 24 Apr 2026 12:00:00 BST 9a778b2352008e05fb0d03f332e6a68a Right Side Articles Cover GTN Xtra Promotion Like all the best ideas, Greenman Garden Tools originally started in a shed. In 1974, Don and Eileen Winter began forging garden tools with a simple philosophy: create tools so good they'll be cherished and passed down through generations. Today, as a fourth-generation family business, we've taken that same commitment to quality and built something gardeners are actively seeking out <img src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/f3/ae2f5653f91154b83556fd.png" style="margin: 0px;" width="530" height="298" hspace="0" vspace="0" alt="">   <img align="right" src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/f3/d06e1989b530d9566732c3.jpg" style="margin: 10px;" width="200" height="262" hspace="10" vspace="10" alt="">Like all the best ideas, Greenman Garden Tools originally started in a shed.   In 1974, Don and Eileen Winter began forging garden tools with a simple philosophy: create tools so good they'll be cherished and passed down through generations. Today, as a fourth-generation family business, we've taken that same commitment to quality and built something gardeners are actively seeking out.   We've developed an extensive range covering every gardener's needs: premium Stainless Steel tools with lifetime guarantees, robust Carbon Steel for serious cultivation, Solid Forged tools for the toughest jobs, and our thoughtfully designed Lite range for gardeners seeking lighter, easier-to-handle options.   We've also changed how tools are sold at retail. We pioneered comprehensive point-of-sale displays that give customers clear information about materials, uses, and guarantees right where they're making decisions. It was a simple idea – help people choose the right tool with proper information – but it worked so well that competitors across the industry have since adopted the same approach. We're proud to have led that shift.   <img src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/18/ee35ad2c3b3b0499cec1fc.jpg" style="margin: 0px;" width="530" height="530" hspace="0" vspace="0" alt=""> The results speak for themselves. With five BBC Gardeners' World Best Buy awards in just two years, we've earned recognition from the industry's most trusted voices. But the real validation comes from gardeners themselves, they're discovering Greenman and specifically requesting our tools by name.   As a family business, we believe in personal service, quality craftsmanship and supporting both our retail partners and the gardening community. Whether you're seeking ready-to-retail display solutions or tools that will serve you for decades, you'll find a warm welcome at Greenman.   For more information please visit: <a href="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/omaeh1e2d1h/external?lang=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://soloist.ai/greenmangardentoolstrade</a> Built for life. Guaranteed.   0121 502 00 55  <a href="mailto:info@greenmangardentools.com">info@greenmangardentools.com</a><a name="_dx_frag_EndFragment"></a>   Instagram - <a href="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/novazt56fmk/external?lang=en">https://www.instagram.com/greenmangardentools/</a> Facebook - <a href="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/100f64m0doh/external?lang=en">https://www.facebook.com/greenmangardentools</a> YouTube - <a href="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/1tmssugv02j/external?lang=en">https://www.youtube.com/@greenmangardentools</a> LinkedIn - <a href="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/1ldq6rcor0x/external?lang=en">https://www.linkedin.com/company/greenman-garden-tools-uk</a> https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/9b/9175da0d4c18e08f3dc37f.jpg Why garden centres need more than a Time & Attendance System https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/mdjc1urdkuq?lang=en&rss=true Garden centres have evolved rapidly, with diverse teams, busier trading patterns and rising customer expectations. But many are still relying on Time & Attendance systems that only track who’s on site. To run efficiently today, garden centres need an integrated approach that brings people, tasks and compliance together... 24 Apr 2026 12:00:00 BST 913a7a0dd67c69d1c0f7af0d4f02b392 Right Side Articles Cover GTN Xtra Promotion Garden centres have evolved rapidly, with diverse teams, busier trading patterns and rising customer expectations. But many are still relying on Time & Attendance systems that only track who’s on site. To run efficiently today, garden centres need an integrated approach that brings people, tasks and compliance together... <img src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/db/78760ab9090065f01bd5b7.jpg" style="margin: 0px;" width="530" height="353" hspace="0" vspace="0" alt="">   Garden centres have evolved rapidly, with diverse teams, busier trading patterns and rising customer expectations. But many are still relying on Time & Attendance systems that only track who’s on site. To run efficiently today, garden centres need an integrated approach that brings people, tasks and compliance together.   Modern Operations Need More Than Clocking In Scheduling in a garden centre is far more complex than simply filling shifts. Different departments—plant areas, cafés, retail, warehouse and seasonal areas—have unique skill requirements and staffing needs. A modern rota system helps managers plan around peak times, labour availability and team competencies.   Tasks and Rotas Work Better Together When daily tasks and staffing plans sit in separate places, inefficiency creeps in. A joined‑up system ensures teams know exactly what needs doing when they arrive, managers can update priorities throughout the day, and visibility improves across the whole site. It’s a simple shift that delivers smoother, more consistent store operations.   Training & H&S Must Be Embedded With machinery, chemicals, food prep and plant care all under one roof, garden centres depend on robust training and safety processes. Integrating training records, compliance tasks and H&S checks directly into the workflow means nothing gets missed—and managers always have an auditable record at their fingertips.   One Platform Makes Every Minute Count By unifying staff scheduling, attendance, task management and compliance, garden centres reduce admin time, minimise errors and gain real‑time insight across the business. Labour becomes easier to control, teams become more productive and managers can make decisions with confidence.   Want to Modernise Workforce Management in Your Garden Centre? If you’d like to see how an all‑in‑one platform can improve efficiency and streamline operations, <a href="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/znxwl55krut/external?lang=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">get in touch—We’d love to help</a>. <a href="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/1osvmx82u41/external?lang=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Discover how WorkForce Manager supports Garden Centres</a> https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/b1/d5be87ca00d48269820290.jpg Leaders of influence, exclusive interviews with HTA CEO Fran Barnes and retiring GIMA Director Vicky Nuttall in the latest issue of GTN magazine, read on-line here https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/2owkj9aaru5?lang=en&rss=true GTN April—May 2026, in this issue Thriving horticultural businesses, growing and retailing, exclusive interview with Fran Barnes, HTA Chief Executive Vicky Nuttall, retiring Director of GIMA on how the garden industry sector has developed Get ready to play, register for the SOLEX 2026 After Party Sea, sand and sci-fi, winners from the annual Blue Diamond Awards Industry gets together for and other FUNdraising Garden Re-Leaf Day Captivating curves from Fordingbridge Sustainability in focus, seven pages of GTN’s spring Sustainability Directory Shared perspectives from around the world, Adapt or Die Story telling plants – GTN Planteria One summer, a swallow does not make - HTA Viewpoint 04 May 2026 12:00:00 BST 4f5b7c92223467f5aa6ef7f9687a09e3 Feature Story GTN April—May 2026, in this issue <ul style="list-style-type: square;"> <li><img align="right" src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/c6/c9fab8e443f44998211a37.jpg" style="margin:5px;" width="250" height="354" hspace="5" vspace="5" alt="">Thriving horticultural businesses, growing and retailing, exclusive interview with Fran Barnes, HTA Chief Executive</li> <li>Vicky Nuttall, retiring Director of GIMA on how the garden industry sector has developed</li> <li>Get ready to play, register for the SOLEX 2026 After Party</li> <li>Sea, sand and sci-fi, winners from the annual Blue Diamond Awards</li> <li>Industry gets together for and other FUNdraising Garden Re-Leaf Day</li> <li>Captivating curves from Fordingbridge</li> <li>Sustainability in focus, seven pages of GTN’s spring Sustainability Directory </li> <li>Shared perspectives from around the world, Adapt or Die</li> <li>Story telling plants – GTN Planteria</li> <li>One summer, a swallow does not make - HTA Viewpoint</li> </ul> <a href="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/19bb0dfwh5b/external?lang=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">GTN April—May 2026, in this issue: Thriving horticultural businesses, growing and retailing, exclusive interview with Fran Barnes HTA Chief Executive - Vicky Nuttall, retiring Director of GIMA, on how the garden industry sector has developed - Get ready to play, register for the SOLEX 2026 After Party - Sea, sand and sci-fi, winners from the annual Blue Diamond Awards - Industry gets together for and other FUNdraising Garden Re-Leaf Day - Captivating curves from Fordingbridge - Sustainability in focus, seven pages of GTN’s spring Sustainability Directory - Shared perspectives from around the world, Adapt or Die - Story telling plants, GTN Planteria - One summer, a swallow does not make - HTA Viewpoint.</a>   <div style="position: relative; padding-top: max(60%,326px); height: 0; width: 100%;"><iframe style="position: absolute; border: none; width: 100%; height: 100%; left: 0; right: 0; top: 0; bottom: 0;" title="GTN April-May 2026 Garden Trade News UK" src="https://e.issuu.com/embed.html?backgroundColor=%236fab9b&backgroundColorFullscreen=%236fab9b&d=gtn_april-may_2026_garden_trade_news_uk&hideIssuuLogo=true&u=gardentradenews" width="320" height="180" frameborder="0" sandbox="allow-top-navigation allow-top-navigation-by-user-activation allow-downloads allow-scripts allow-same-origin allow-popups allow-modals allow-popups-to-escape-sandbox allow-forms" allow="clipboard-write; autoplay; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></div>   <a href="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/19bb0dfwh5b/external?lang=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/c6/c9fab8e443f44998211a37.jpg" style="margin: 0px;" width="250" height="354" hspace="0" vspace="0" alt=""></a> Read the issue on-line here Greenfingers Charity launches 'Floral Friday' https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/1ixv8z8k06y?lang=en&rss=true Greenfingers Charity is launching Floral Friday on Friday 12th June 2026, the first day of Greenfingers trekkers’ ascent of Mount Kilimanjaro. It will be a one-day national fundraising and awareness campaign designed to unite supporters across the UK in a shared moment of colour, connection and giving... 01 May 2026 12:00:00 BST 5921d4e03ed907cfe470db7e630e8cc2 Feature Story A nationwide wave of colour to power Kilimanjaro trek for hospice gardens Greenfingers Charity is launching Floral Friday on Friday 12th June 2026, the first day of Greenfingers trekkers’ ascent of Mount Kilimanjaro. It will be a one-day national fundraising and awareness campaign designed to unite supporters across the UK in a shared moment of colour, connection and giving... Greenfingers Charity is launching Floral Friday on Friday 12th June 2026, the first day of Greenfingers trekkers’ ascent of Mount Kilimanjaro. It will be a one-day national fundraising and awareness campaign designed to unite supporters across the UK in a shared moment of colour, connection and giving.   Timed to coincide with the moment the 23-strong trek team begin their climb, Floral Friday invites the industry to come together in a visible show of support, helping to fund the creation of a new garden at Naomi & Jack’s, a children’s hospice in in Winchester.   Supporters are encouraged to: <ul type="disc"> <li>Wear something floral</li> <li>Share a photo using #FloralFriday</li> <li>Donate to support the Kilimanjaro trekkers and Greenfingers hospice gardens</li> </ul> Bearing the slogan 'Wear Flowers. Power the Climb', the campaign is built around a powerful shared message: “Today they climb. We climb with them.”   A Shared Moment of Climb and Celebration Floral Friday transforms the start of the Kilimanjaro ascent into a collective national send-off. As trekkers take their first steps towards the summit, supporters across the UK will symbolically 'climb with them' through acts of visibility, storytelling and fundraising.   Every floral outfit worn, photo shared and donation made helps drive momentum for Greenfingers’ mission to create peaceful, life-enhancing garden spaces for children with life-limiting conditions and their families.   Linda Petrons, Greenfingers Director of Fundraising & Communications, said: “Floral Friday is about more than fundraising, it’s about connection and a show of support.  On the very day our trekkers begin their ascent of Mount Kilimanjaro, we want supporters everywhere to feel part of that journey. Whether you wear flowers, share a photo or donate, you are helping to build something lasting for children and families who rely on hospice gardens for comfort, play and peace.”   Getting Involved Taking part is simple: <ol start="1" type="1"> <li>Wear your best or worst florals on Friday 12th June</li> <li>Share a photo using #FloralFriday</li> <li>Donate to support the trekkers and hospice garden programme: <a href="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/1d0zhb4p0hy/external?lang=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/greenfingers-kilimanjaro2026</a></li> </ol> Every action helps create momentum for Greenfingers’ work transforming outdoor spaces in children’s hospices into magical, therapeutic gardens. https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/b2/030a4de8318c941957062e.png https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/b2/030a4de8318c941957062e.png SOLEX World Cup Awards Night 2026 set to kick off in championship style https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/1myb638kbrg?lang=en&rss=true Summer starts here – and SOLEX is kicking things off in feel-good style as the SOLEX Awards & Afterparty returns for its third year on Tuesday 7th July 2026, bringing the celebrations to the Concourse Suite at the NEC, Birmingham – this time under the banner of the SOLEX World Cup Awards Night... The SOLEX Awards Ceremony will be hosted by comedian and broadcaster Paul Sinha. 14 Apr 2026 12:00:00 BST d94d5d26438fb961afc1cdc9407ba7b3 Feature Story <img src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/a1/88d44ee5dd05895e36b74c.jpg" style="margin: 0px;" width="450" height="180" hspace="0" vspace="0" alt=""> <img align="right" src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/c4/e21d71e2f94f38c53acb9c.jpeg" style="margin: 10px;" width="117" height="169" hspace="10" vspace="10" alt="">Summer starts here – and SOLEX is kicking things off in feel-good style as the SOLEX Awards & Afterparty returns for its third year on Tuesday 7th July 2026, bringing the celebrations to the Concourse Suite at the NEC, Birmingham – this time under the banner of the SOLEX World Cup Awards Night...   The SOLEX Awards Ceremony will be hosted by comedian and broadcaster Paul Sinha. <img align="right" src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/79/94208bed1cf4ddd25f8c2a.jpg" style="margin: 0px;" width="275" height="277" hspace="0" vspace="0" alt="">Summer starts here – and SOLEX is kicking things off in feel-good style as the SOLEX Awards & Afterparty returns for its third year on Tuesday 7th July 2026, bringing the celebrations to the Concourse Suite at the NEC, Birmingham – this time under the banner of the SOLEX World Cup Awards Night.   Limited to just 350 guests and with a World Cup 2026 theme setting the tone, this is your chance to swap the show floor for the spotlight and celebrate the outdoor living industry in true SOLEX style — great people, great atmosphere, delicious food… and a brilliant night out.   <img align="left" src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/d7/f4b103b2d1b4f7bd48fbd4.jpeg" style="margin: 10px;" width="200" height="233" hspace="10" vspace="10" alt="">The evening begins with welcome drinks from 6.30pm, before the spotlight turns to the main stage for the SOLEX Awards Ceremony. Hosted by comedian and broadcaster Paul Sinha. Expect laughs, energy and a proper feel-good vibe as Paul takes to the stage as MC and helps present the SOLEX Awards, recognising excellence across the outdoor living sector.   Following the awards guests move into half-time enjoying fantastic food, music and relaxed networking.  Foosball tables will be in play throughout the interval, adding a light-hearted, competitive element to the evening and encouraging exhibitors and industry colleagues to connect.    The second half sees guests take to their seats for a live screening of a World Cup Round of 16 match on large screens, bringing shared tournament drama to the SOLEX audience.    The event wraps up at 11.30pm, making it the perfect way to kick off SOLEX with an unforgettable celebration.   Book your place by <a href="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/u6re07htuq9/external?lang=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">clicking here</a> Attendance is strictly capped at 350 guests. N.B. There is a £100 non- attendance fee applicable to confirmed bookings not attended.   For more information about SOLEX <a href="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/r6rkixoelqm/external?lang=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://solexexhibition.com/</a>   <img src="https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/17491/f5/4d13cd7379f0b736f2bbe3.jpg" style="margin: 0px;" width="530" height="701" hspace="0" vspace="0" alt=""> Read more and book your places here