Like the first cuckoo, the annual ClassifloraZelari will soon be heralding the arrival of spring, bringing a touch of Tuscany to this quiet corner of Waltham Abbey. As ever, an unrivalled selection of specimen trees, hardy outdoor shrubs, trees and plants will be turning the heads of buyers representing landscaping and development, garden centres, nurseries and garden designers. With more stock than ever under cover and an abundance of special deals, this is one not to miss.

This year, Classiflora tells us, it’s the plants that will be doing the talking – and it seems they've got plenty to talk about...

“You’re going to love our shelfies!”

Classiflora’s unbeatable quality and fantastic value coupled with complete flexibility. 180 different shelf deals and trolley combinations allow buyers to pick and mix the stock that will delight and inspire their customers; a cost-effective solution that cuts out waste and lets buyers choose from a range of themes and impulse colour lines.

“We’ve come from all over Europe to meet you!”

Kick-start the season with over 1,700 hand-sourced new and exciting lines drawn from across Europe – including for the first time varieties from France: Campsis, Syringa, Cornus, magnolias, Vitis and an abundance of fruit trees. Many of the lines can be retailed at £59.99 or less.

“Our bespoke labels are going to really add value!”

An attractive, well-designed label can lift a plant's value, and Classiflora will personalise labels with your own business name. Product-specific with full colour images, these labels really do lend a touch of class.

“We can help you cut out that boring admin!”

Classiflora's online ordering app has been designed to streamline the order process and cut out time-consuming admin. The result is a fast, efficient service that makes it easy to pick and mix quantities, change your order as you go and keep an eye on costs.

“Our hotspot deals are unmissable!”

A vastly expanded Zelari sample house for direct shipment orders provides twice the amount of stock under cover - so no chance of missing anything if the weather's not quite Tuscan! Heavily discounted 'hotspot' deals will be scattered throughout nursery, so plenty of opportunity to pick up a bargain or two. Additional discounts will be available across the two days.


     

“You're very welcome!”

The ClassifloraZelari hospitality is every bit as warm as the company's Italian heritage and visitors will be encouraged to indulge in a little down-time by meeting up with old friends and doing a bit of networking while enjoying a delicious Italian lunch with wine and a selection of Bowman's ales.

Alongside Classiflora's friendly and knowledgeable staff, visiting exhibitors will include HSK tree ferns, Planterworld, Europlanters, Town & Country, and for the first time, County garden tools and Apta Pots.

Andrew Dayes, marketing manager at the business, promises it to be a fantastic couple of days. He said: “I think our visitors are going to be bowled over by our stock, number of offers and fresh innovations. We’re looking forward to meeting friends old and new and giving them something to smile about. They don’t have to take my word for it - our plants will be doing all the talking!”

To more information and to register for the open days visit www.classiflora.com or call 08700 600 420. The event will be supporting horticulture’s favourite charity, the Greenfingers Appeal, raising money to create inspiring gardens for children’s hospices across the UK.

Benito Castiglioni, 1939 - 2015

Benito's passing has shocked us all and he will be greatly missed by old friends at the open days, as it is by his family and colleagues at the nursery.

With over 40 years in the business, he was the guiding hand that took Classiflora from humble beginnings, eventually moving the business to the present 7-acre site that provides work for 25 dedicated and experienced professionals.

Benito took a genuine hands-on approach to the business, always ensuring the products and service that Classiflora provides are of the highest standard. His love of plants and horticulture was undiminished by the years, and the countless awards Benito received at shows through the decades bear testament to that.

Sheila Hill, the new General Manager of Scotts Company (UK) Ltd, has revealed that she aims to visit a total of 50 garden centres in the next four months as she shares her vision for the future of the company.

Sheila, who took over as boss of the restructured UK operation of the Scotts business just over two weeks ago, says she will also be asking for feedback from customers.

"It's a bit of a one-woman-band roadshow," she told GTN Xtra in her first media interview since her appointment.

"It's me Sheila Hill, the UK General Manager of Scotts, spending my time and going out to see our customers, listening to them and getting their feedback, and telling them what Scotts could do to drive their business.

"It's about me getting to know our customers and being the face of Scotts UK, and our way of showing our commitment to the retailer.

"My message is that Scotts will continue to be an important partner in their business. We are the brand leader in all the categories - weed-killing, plant food, compost, lawn care etc - and we want our customers to have the confidence that the changes that have happened will be beneficial to them in the long term.

"We are going to be a faster, more nimble business. We are going to make decisions quickly, which will help them to drive their business and that we're here to help them in terms of what they need – we want to be the one-stop shop for all gardening core categories."

Sheila will also explain to retailers how the company is integrating the Scotts Solus Brands into the business.

"It's a really exciting position for Scotts to be in. We're offering up a whole new scope of what Scotts Miracle-Gro can offer. And if we're brand leader in our core categories, imagine what we can do in all the other adjacent ones we've now acquired through Scotts Solus Brands.

"It's exciting times ahead and we look forward growing with them."

Sheila took over as UK General Manager in a Scotts restructure, which saw former boss Martin Breddy leave the company.

The Scotts Company (UK) Ltd now reports directly to the company’s USA headquarters, rather than the previous system – via the International Head Office in Lyon, France. In practice, this means that the UK division will now be able to independently make its own trading decisions.

The full interview with Sheila Hill will be published in the March issue of Garden Trade News.

Following GTN Xtra's breaking news last week that Wyevale Garden Centres were talking to another group of over 30 centres about acquiring their business, Klondyke's Chief Executive Bob Hewitt has stated categorically that his stores are not for sale.

"We only have 23 stores and as previously stated Klondyke is not for sale and we are certainly not in talks with Wyevale or any other party for that matter," said Bob (pictured right).

"We are continuing to redevelop our existing estate and at some point in the not too distant future we will be seeking to acquire more garden centres ourselves. To be blunt, such a rumour about Klondyke is a non starter!

"It seems fairly logical to me for Wyevale to be talking with Dobbies as the acquisition would give Wyevale national coverage. In my mind Tesco has enough problems of its own without having to run a relatively insignificant business to them like Dobbies."

It appears that Wyevale boss Kevin Bradshaw's revelations were aimed at Dobbies, who have 35 stores. There has been a lot of gossip recently about the future of Dobbies, particularly in light of the troubles facing its owner Tesco.

Colin Wetherley-Mein (centre) of Vitax, will be standing for election as President at the next GIMA AGM which is being held at Haskins Garden Centre, Roundstone on 15^th April. 

Vicky Nuttall, Director of GIMA told GTN Xtra "Chris Ramsden (right) is staying in post as Vice President for another year, and Steve Millington (left) will be stepping down after his period as President, hence Colin, our Honorary Treasurer, standing for election."

"After the AGM we will be holding our next Day Conference and we are delighted that Julian Winfield & Conna Powles from Haskins and Alan Roper from Blue Diamond will all be talking at the event.  I can also confirm that Guy Moreton from MorePeople will be giving a talk about Succession Planning, and Stephen Sidkin from Fox Williams Solicitors will be providing members with an update on the latest changes to Agents and Distributorship regulations."

info@gima.org.uk

Renowned and much-loved actors Jim Carter and Imelda Staunton OBE hosted an exclusive fundraising pledge dinner for Greenfingers in the beautiful surroundings of Clifton Nurseries in London’s Little Venice.

Jim Carter is perhaps currently best known as Downton Abbey’s Mr Carson, a role for which he has received great acclaim.  Imelda Staunton is one of the country’s best-loved actors, who has seen great success on stage and screen, she is multi-awarding winning and was Oscar nominated for her role in Vera Drake. 

Both actors have been patrons of Greenfingers since early 2014 with their involvement in the charity bringing together their passion for gardening and their interest in the hospice movement.

The intimate evening, held in the luxurious palm house at Clifton Nurseries, saw a select group of diners join Jim and Imelda to raise pledges of support for the work Greenfingers do in supporting children and families in children’s hospices around the UK.  It offered guests the unique chance to dine in the tranquil surroundings of London’s oldest garden centre, enjoy a five-course meal, hear anecdotes from Jim and Imelda’s glittering careers, whilst also finding out more about Greenfingers. 

Jim and Imelda delighted guests by giving them a chance to ask them questions about their illustrious careers and Imelda even treated diners to a song, with a stunning rendition of 'Why walk when you can fly' by Mary Chapin Carpenter.

Jim Carter said of the dinner: “What a fantastic evening!  It is wonderful to be here in such delightful surroundings, eating such delicious food, in wonderful company and bringing together people to hear about Greenfingers, a charity that means a lot to us, and the work they do for children who spend time in hospices around the country, offering them vibrant and exciting outdoor spaces for them to relax in and enjoy.”

Greenfingers is dedicated to supporting the children who spend time in hospices around the UK, along with their families, by creating inspiring gardens for them to relax in and enjoy.

To date Greenfingers has created 44 inspiring gardens in children’s hospices around the country, with their latest garden at Little Haven’s Hospice in Essex opening in autumn 2014.

The signs for gardening activity this year are looking good, according to the GTN Bestsellers Charts for the first week of February.  

Analysis of the weekly Epos data supplied from UK garden centres shows big increases in sales of growing media and garden plant food lines as keener gardeners take the lead and get their season growing already.

Sales volumes of the Top 50 Growing Media lines are the highest we’ve seen for the first six weeks of the year in any of the six years we’ve been collecting data for GTN Bestsellers.

Chicken manure pellets have also rocketed up the sales charts to a Top 5 position one week earlier than last year.

Are you maximising on early bird gardening activity?  The sooner you satisfy the needs of gardeners the sooner they will be telling all their friends and relatives to come and visit you too!

GTN Bestsellers Top 50 sales volumes compared to the same week last year...

• Garden Products – down 14%
• Veg-2-Gro Products – down 20%
• Growing Media – up 35%
• All items index – down 4%

Garden retailers are being encouraged to sign up to the Love the Plot You’ve Got campaign and maximise the opportunities that this industry wide initiative presents.

Aimed at 30-45 year olds Love the Plot You’ve Got seeks to inspire those who have access to a garden or outdoor space but don’t currently make great use of it. Importantly the aim is to de-mystify and not dumb down gardening and provide them with achievable and realistic ideas.

Speaking about the campaign HTA Chief Executive Carol Paris said: “We cannot rest on our laurels and simply hope that when people get to 45 plus they suddenly develop an interest in gardening. The more we can do as an industry to inspire people at a younger age the better – it is about growing the size of the pie for the industry.”

Amongst the first garden retailers to sign up are: Burston Garden Centre, Coolings Garden Centres, Guyana, Merryhatton Garden Centre, New Hopetoun Gardens, St Peters Garden Centre, Cleeve Nursery, Endsleigh Garden Nurseries, Hillview Garden Centres, Ness Botanic Gardens, Perrywood and Summerhill Garden Centre.

Adam Wigglesworth from Aylett Nurseries is passionate about the opportunity that the campaign presents for the industry. He comments, “Love the Plot You’ve Got presents a fantastic opportunity for the industry. The campaign has real cross industry support, being backed by RHS , GIMA, LOFA and numerous suppliers including Westland Horticulture who are transporting the plots to the roadshow events. The research carried out shows that consumers between 30 and 45 enjoy their outdoor space for an array of uses but they need solutions, advice and inspiration to take that next step.”

He adds: “As retailers we need to capitalise on the publicity that the campaign and series of roadshows will create. Signing up and supporting the campaign will put our outlets within easy reach of consumers whose interest has been captured. This is our industry, I would encourage you to support this campaign and build on the momentum that has already started.”

Inspiration and activity will be focused around www.loveyourplot.com. There will also be a series of roadshow events across the country featuring ‘before and after’ gardens the size of a shipping container. Kindly transported by Westland Horticulture, the inspirational gardens will be visiting garden festival and city centre venues across the country with the first roadshow taking place on 20-22 March at Good Life Live at Alexandra Palace in London.

Other dates confirmed so far include:

8-10 May – Garden Show Ireland
23-24 May – George Square, Glasgow
29-31 May – Gardening Scotland

To find out more and sign up for the campaign contact Garden Industry Marketing Board Project Manager David Arnold. Tel: 07876643638. Email: daaltd@virginmedia.com

A series of Love the Plot You’ve Got masterclasses, run by Ian Boardman, have been taking place covering different aspects of the campaign picking out key points from the consumer research into what 30-45 year olds are looking for from their outdoor space. Places are still available at the forthcoming masterclasses which are taking place at

Tues 17 February:  Woodlodge, Tetbury
Thurs 19 February: Old Railway Line Garden Centre
Fri 20 February:  Sinclair, Ellesmere Port
Thurs 12 March: Glendoick Garden Centre
Tues 17 March:  RHS Harlow Carr

To find out more and book your place email Ian Boardman at i.boardman@ibbis.co.uk

Town & Country’s pledge to raise money for the Greenfingers Rosy Cheeks appeal has paid huge dividends, with over £7,000 raised for the charity during 2014.

A total of £7,300 has been achieved through sales of Town & Country’s Master Gardener Secateurs Promotion which was launched at GLEE 2013.  For each sale of the fully stocked, counter display - comprising 42 items across the five different products (three secateurs and two snips) - Town & Country is donating £25 to the charity.

The cheque was handed over by Town & Country’s marketing and design executive, Nicole Dopson, to Greenfingers Trustee and HTA chief executive, Carol Paris, and Head of Fundraising for Greenfingers, Linda Petrons, at the Garden Press Event at the Barbican on Thursday.

Commented Carol Paris:  “I was on the Town & Country stand at GLEE 2013 for the launch of this promotion to raise funds for the charity.  I am absolutely thrilled with the success of the campaign, which has resulted in such a significant contribution to this wonderful charity which we are all so passionate about.”

Town & Country’s chief executive Barry Page said: “Our aim with the launch of the Master Gardener Secateurs Promotion was to help create a steady income stream for Greenfingers so that they are able to fund more projects and continue to carry out the wonderful work they do for children’s hospices. 

"We are delighted that our efforts, and those of our customers who have bought into the promotion, have enabled us to contribute to this very worthwhile cause.

Enquiries:  Town & Country; 01530 830990; info@townandco.com; www.townandco.com

Members of the Garden Centre Association are being encouraged to nominate their employees for the Rising Stars 2015 programme sponsored by Westland Horticulture. 

Nominations are now open for garden centres to put forward their staff before Wednesday, February 25.

Iain Wylie, GCA Chief Executive, explained: “Our Rising Stars programme, which is sponsored by Westland Horticulture, has been a huge success over the past six years and we’re hoping for even bigger and better things in 2015.

“If garden centre managers or owners feel they have a member of staff who has gone above and beyond the call of duty and is a rising star within the business, then they should seriously consider putting them forwards for the programme.”

Once collected, the nominations will then be put to a panel of judges, who will confirm the participants for 2015.

They will all be invited to take part in a series of workshops held by Training Facilitator, Ian Boardman, on topics such as merchandising.

Candidates’ work will be assessed throughout the year to review the various elements on which the finalists have received training. The best performing participants will be invited to the 2016 GCA conference where they will showcase some of their work to the audience and talk about the difference it has made. A final winner will then be voted for by conference attendees.

Keith Nicholson, Marketing Director for Westland Horticulture, said: “Encouraging new and emerging talent is essential for the future of our industry, bringing fresh ideas and inspiration. That’s why Westland will continue to invest heavily in training for garden centre staff and will once again support the next Rising Stars programme.”

For a nomination form, please email info@gca.org.uk

Pictured: The Rising Stars from 2014 at the GCA conference with Westland's Edward Conroy (far left) and John McDowell (far right).

North Wales Garden World has solved the ever growing problem of plastic waste by designing and producing plant display tables made of our recycled plant pots and trays.

"These are colour fast and rot proof which solves another  problem with the usual wooden tables that are watered daily," said Hugh Marston, from North Wales Garden World.

Hugh is pictured with Steve Allen the general manager of recycling company Plasteco Wood Ltd.

Kingfisher has strengthened its buying department by appointing two new experienced members.

As Buying Manager, Charlotte Bator is responsible for the purchasing and development team, ensuring products arrive on time, whilst offering value for money key market ranges.  With over 6 years’ experience in sourcing and supplying to retail, as well as positions held within a global retail office, Charlotte has vast commercial knowledge and is looking forward to leading the purchasing team on to a great future.

Also joining the company is Trainee Buyer Holly Martin, who has buying experience specialising in the direct dispatch of furniture and large garden items.  A talented all-rounder, Holly has previously excelled in sales on a national scale, but it is in purchasing that she feels her true strengths lie.  She will be responsible for the purchasing, stock inventory, management, pricing and general product maintenance of several key product categories, including gardening, homewares and heating.

www.bonningtonplastics.com

Budding bee-keepers can learn more about the hobby in taster courses at Webbs garden centre in Wychbold, home to a buzzing honey business.

Professional bee keeper Chris Broad established eight hives in the Riverside gardens two years ago which provided hundreds of jars of exclusive Webbs’ honey to sell in the Webbs Food Hall.

Chris, who runs Saltway Honey with his wife Susan from Bromsgrove, will answer all the questions a prospective bee-keeper might have from costs, time commitments and suitable hive locations to potential problems. The taster sessions proved very popular when they were run at Webbs last year and spaces sold out very quickly.

The three hour course includes two hours with the Webbs bee hives in the garden with protective bee suits provided. The third hour will be an indoor session outlining the next steps including equipment, local training courses, recommended reading and answering questions.

The Bee-Keeping Taster Course will run on a choice of dates: Sundays – 19 April, 17 May, 14 June, 12 July, 9 August, 20 September from 10.30am – 1.30pm. The 3 hour course costs £25 per person.

Chairman Ed Webb said: “There is a growing interest in keeping bees and the sessions were very popular last year. Chris Broad is an expert in the field and will pass on his enthusiasm and love for bee-keeping as well as his knowledge. It will give people a great insight into whether this is a hobby for them.”

Tickets can be purchased from reception at Webbs, Wychbold or at www.webbs.co.uk  from 16th February. Booking in advance is essential.

The horticultural charity Greenfingers has announced a new partnership with leading home and garden retailer Homebase.

The new three-year long partnership between Greenfingers and Homebase will see the two organisations joining forces on a number of joint initiatives.

The first venture will involve members of the Homebase Garden Academy, mentored by award-winning garden designer Adam Frost, which aims to raise the profile of a career in gardening and inspire gardening talent of the future. 

Students from the academy will be invited to attend special workshops about the work Greenfingers does, including trips to hospice gardens and talks from Greenfingers garden designers. It is hoped this will offer academy members a valuable insight into the unique considerations of designing gardens at children’s hospices with a view to members being involved in future Greenfingers garden design projects.

Deborah Skillicorn, Greenfingers Charity Director, commented on the new partnership: “We are thrilled to be announcing this new collaboration between Greenfingers and Homebase.

"As a small charity we are really excited about the potential benefits the partnership will bring to the gardens we create for children who spend time in hospices around the UK and are very much looking forward to creating a fruitful, beneficial alliance for everyone involved.”

Amy Whidburn, Head of Corporate Responsibility at Homebase said: “Greenfingers is a fantastic charity that makes a huge difference to families up and down the country. We hope that over the next three years, Homebase can make a real difference by helping with its garden projects and by raising vital funds.”

Further collaborations between Greenfingers and Homebase will be announced throughout the year.

Sales Merchandiser

Gardman Limited is a highly successful, leading manufacturer and distributor of a wide range of quality products for the garden leisure industry. It has developed a highly focused five-brand strategy that embraces the full product range, strengthening and simplifying its market offering and providing a solid platform for future growth and development of the Gardman business.

As the business expands and continues to strengthen its sales team and supporting processes, a requirement exists for a number of Sales Merchandisers to be located across the country to support and assist the Regional Sales Management team. These positions which will primarily concentrate on small to medium sized garden centres will be based and provide coverage in the South of England, Midlands/Wales and North of England/Scotland respectively.

Role profile

• Effectively merchandise products in line with agreements and promo plans.
• Build strong, productive relationships with key contacts within the trade and centres.
• Develop positive relationships with our Sales Agents /Account Managers ensuring that both centre Agents and Sales Managers KPI’s are exceeded.
• Work with Buyers/Sales Agents to maintain stock levels and maximize product placement.
• Appropriately merchandise displays with proper signage/shelf placement.
• Implement/manage special promotional campaigns and new product launches.
• Monitor/report on sales volume and inventory activity during the promotional period

Benefits

• Salary range £18k-25k subject to experience
• Bonus
• Company vehicle
• 25 days annual holiday
• Lap top and mobile phone
• Pension scheme

Candidates interested in this position should apply by email to recruitment@gardman.co.uk

An exciting opportunity has arisen within our flagship store for a highly motivated and experienced Retail Manager to join the Blue Diamond Group. 

We are currently recruiting for a Centre Manager for Redfields Garden Centre in Fleet. 

Blue Diamond Group is one of the UK’s largest Garden Centre Groups, turning over £70m annually with centres throughout the UK and in the Channel Islands.

Whilst having responsibility for the management of the Garden Centre, the successful candidate will be able to recognise sales trends in detail from our reports package and use this information to improve sales performance and the profitability through replenishment and merchandising. 

Only candidates with retail experience and commercial skills will be considered, in order to ensure that sales are driven and that the level of service exceeds customer expectations. 

The salary is dependent upon experience.

Should you require any further information regarding this role, or wish to apply for the position, please contact the HR department on recruitment@bluediamond.gg

I am currently seeking a talented plant manager for a large independent garden centre based in Angus in Scotland.   

I am seeking a manager that is looking for a challenge as this is a busy department in the centre and will need a strong retail manager to run the day to day operations.   

You will have experience managing the financial side of a department and will have good purchasing and merchandising experience. 

A thorough understanding of seasonality is key to this role so a wide and thorough level of plant knowledge is desired for this position. The variety of stock maintained throughout the seasons will require a manager who is up to speed with the product range required in Scotland. 

Experience with Sundries and Pots is also desirable. 

Could suit a candidate looking to relocate. Commuting is possible due to good local transport links.  

For a confidential discussion, please call Brad Peck at MorePeople on 01780 480530 quoting reference #7032

I am currently looking for an experienced and commercial retail manager to take up an exciting General Manager role in our thriving garden centre.

The successful candidate will be highly motivated and will be able to maximise performance by leading and inspiring the team to deliver exceptional customer service. 

Responsibilities will include the day to day management of the Garden Centre and all operational, commercial and financial areas of the business. 

Experience working in a retail environment at a senior level is essential and although an interest in Horticulture would be an advantage, no formal qualification is required.  

Salary dependant on skills and experience  

For a confidential discussion, please call Brad Peck at MorePeople on 01780 480530 quoting reference #7064

• Are you a talented, experienced, business-focused account manager?
• Do you have a proven track record in developing long-term, profitable relationships with customers?
• Are you a strong team player - someone who can bring fresh ideas, excellent communication skills and plenty of energy to an already dynamic sales team?
• Are you hungry to take your career to the next level within a fast-growing family-owned business?

STV, the UK's leading supplier of pest control products to garden and hardware stores, is looking to recruit an experienced Key Accounts Manager with an impressive contacts book and extensive knowledge of the UK homes and gardens sector.

This office based role is exciting and varied. You will be expected to:

• manage and develop selected national accounts in line with STV’s overall business plan
• build on STV's existing category-leading position
• work with senior managers and STV's commercial team to contribute to the overall sales, marketing and NPD strategies
• provide accurate but challenging revenue, volume and profit forecasts – and achieve them

Think you can do that? Then we’d love to hear from you. Send your CV and covering letter to marketing@stvpestcontrol.com. A full job description is available on request.

         

www.stvpestcontrol.com 

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a highly motivated and experienced Retail Manager to join the Blue Diamond Group.  We are currently recruiting for a Centre Manager for St Peters Garden Centre in Jersey. 

Blue Diamond Group is one of the UK’s largest Garden Centre Groups, turning over £70m annually with centres throughout the UK and in the Channel Islands.

Whilst having responsibility for the management of the Garden Centre, the successful candidate will be able to recognise sales trends in detail from our reports package and use this information to improve sales performance and the profitability of the through replenishment and merchandising.

Only candidates with retail management experience and commercial skills will be considered, in order to ensure that sales are driven and that the level of service exceeds customer expectations. 

The salary is dependent upon experience, however up to £50,000 plus benefits.

Should you require any further information regarding this role, or wish to apply for the position, please contact the HR department on recruitment@bluediamond.gg

http://www.bluediamond.gg/

We have an exciting development opportunity to join the team at a large destination garden centre in a senior role within the business.  

This is a great challenge for someone with a background in warehouse management to utilise their skills and experience in developing new and effective procedures which will enable the organisation to make substantial improvements to the movement and storage of our products  

This is a unique and demanding hands -on role, working closely with a small team and which will require an enthusiastic and resilient attitude; it would also be beneficial for candidates to have experience in or understanding of a retail operation and hold a valid fork lift and reach truck licence.

Salary dependant on skills and experience.

To discuss further, please call Brad Peck at MorePeople on 01780 480530 quoting reference #7065

I am currently seeking an experienced Assistant Manager for a large independent garden centre based in Angus in Scotland.   

I am seeking an experienced retailer to join the senior leadership of a successful centre and help drive the business forward.  Experience in a equivalent role of 3 years should be sufficient. 

You will have a broad experience managing in retail. A destination site such as this would benefit from a manager with a wide range of experience. Candidates should be from a more quality focussed retail background. 

Although horticultural experience is not essential previous experience working in garden retail previously would be preferred. This position may suit a retail manager looking broader role or a step up.

I am looking for a real leader and fantastic 'man manager' who can deliver aspects of team building and training.  

Could suit a candidate looking to relocate. Commuting is possible due to good local transport links.

For a confidential discussion, please call Brad Peck at MorePeople on 01780 480530 quoting reference #7031

This year’s HTA Garden Futures Conference and Dinner will take place on Wednesday 30 September 2015 at Heythrop Park in Oxfordshire.

This strategic event which brings together the key players from across the garden industry explores the challenges and opportunities that face garden retail now and in the future.

HTA Chief Executive Carol Paris comments: “We have decided to move HTA Garden Futures out of London for the first time in a number of years and Heythrop Park provides a stunning venue in which to do this. By running the conference and dinner on the same day and in the same location delegates can really maximise the opportunity that the event provides.”

Details of speakers will be announced over the coming months.

To register your interest please email events@the-hta.org.uk

The much awaited and anticipated launch of Darlac’s most innovative product to date has finally arrived and the company couldn’t be more delighted with the response to its revolutionary new Tri-Blade Garden Shear.

Since its launch earlier this week, and due to the fact that Darlac has exclusivity to this product,  the phone at Darlac’s headquarters in Berkshire hasn’t stopped ringing as garden centres and retail buyers from across the country are anxious to stock-up for the coming season ahead.

Like all Darlac products, the revolutionary, Tri-Blade Shear has been designed and manufactured to the highest possible standard.

Hedge cutters and topiary enthusiasts can trim to their hearts content in far less time than it would normally take when using  a traditional two bladed pair of shears. And whilst it is impossible to give  an exact time saving when using three blades compared to a traditional two bladed version, recent consumer focused trials have resulted in users reporting back that greater speed is unquestionably one of the major benefits. The trials have also reported of an improved accuracy of cut as the central blade remains static, whilst the outer blades cut against it.

The two outer blades of these new high spec shears are teflon coated to reduce friction and alleviate the likelihood of rust forming in the metal, whilst the central blade is chrome armoured and completely heat-treated to also prevent rust, but more importantly to act as a central point of focus. This in turn creates additional stability and ensures a ‘real-bite’ to the cut.

Unlike conventional shears,  the Tri-Blade shears outer blades are also heat-treated; but to a different level than that of a traditional set and with particular focus being placed on the cutting edge.

The shears are available in three models:

• DP900 with Fibreglass handles. Weighs 887gms. Retail price £30
• DP905 with Aluminium handles. Weighs 927gms. Retail price £30
• DP910 with Aluminium Telecopic handles extending from 660mm to 890mm, weighs  1.125  Retail price £35

DIY and garden centre buyers wishing to stock-up with the Tri-Blade shear will be pleased to know that Darlac has put together an attractive Introductory Stand Deal Package which includes all three models in small quantities - so no need to worry about storage problems!

The stand which comes F.O.C. (free of charge) with pegs, and measures (H) 1.5m x (W) 0.7m x (D) 0.5m, boasts a wonderful bright coloured eye-catching header display which will grace any garden centre floor or DIY outlet. It can also be free-standing, for double-sided use, or can be placed against a wall.

The starter package includes:

• 6 x DP900 Tri-Blade Shear – with fibreglass handles
• 6 x DP905 Tri-Blade Shear with Aluminium handles
• 12 x DP910 Tri-Blade Shears with telescopic handles.

For further information call 01753 547790.

Garden plant feeding product sales are the feature of the GTN Garden Products chart this week as keener gardeners prepare for the season ahead.  There are eight “straights” lines in the Top 50 and six of them are either re-entries or new entries.

• Westland Organic Chicken Manure Pellets, 2.25kg, are the highest climber of the week – up 21 places to No 4.
• Westland Fish Blood and Bone, 3.5kg, is the highest re-entry at No 13.
• Highest new entry of the week is 16.5cm Orchid Pot Saucers from Growth Technology.

After 48 years of service, on February 28th John Molloy will retire as Managing Director of Erin Horticulture Ltd. John held numerous roles at Erin starting his career in 1967.

In 1994 John was appointed Managing Director and has held the role since then. John will continue to support the business on a consultancy basis going forward.

Leisuregrow Group is pleased to announce that James Spillane has been appointed as John’s successor, as Managing Director with immediate effect.

James has more than 20 years of national and International experience in both the Food and Horticulture industries.  Most recently he held a senior commercial role at Valeo Foods and previously was Commercial Manager at Bord na Mona.

Richard Grimmer, Group Chief Executive, thanked John for his service and commitment to the business over the last 5 decades, stating: “John has seen the business through thick and thin and has always delivered on his commitment to quality and reliability”.

In relationto  the future he commented: "Our horticulture business is a strategically important part of Leisuregrow Group. I am delighted to announce the appointment of James as Managing Director. His breadth of experience will be invaluable to us as we seek to grow and develop the business”.

Onion set sales continue to dominate the Veg-2-Gro sales chart – 10 of the Top 20 are onion, garlic or shallot sets and Thmpson & Morgan’s Spring Onion Lisbon seeds also feature in the Top 20, climbing 36 places to No 13.

• Taylors Onion Sets Stuttgarter Giant back at No1 after two weeks at No 2.
• T&M Cucumber Diva makes  chart debut at No 8.
• Taylors Rhubarb Red Champagne sparkles to re-enter at No 20.
• Suttons have two new entries in Runner Bean Super Trio Mix and Beetroot Egyptische Platronde.

Andy Burns has been appointed managing director of the Stewart Group. The appointment comes as the business reports 25% growth in the year to January 2015.

Burns joined Stewart as group sales and marketing director in January 2014. He was responsible for the growth and strategic development of the company's sales and marketing activity across all sales channels.

Before joining Stewart, Burns, a brand and category management specialist, oversaw online, retail and trade channels at Whirlpool Corporation. Previously, he was marketing director at Stanley Europe with strategic marketing responsibility for their UK business, its largest marketplace in EMEA.

Now in its third year at its state-of-the art Banbury manufacturing facility, Stewart has consolidated its position as the market leader in grow your own and contemporary lifestyle garden products. The business now plans to provide further improvements to its customer care and logistics operations.To achieve these objectives, it has simplified its business channels and invested in building inventory to unprecedented preseason levels.

Stewart's key business channels are garden centres, major retail and trade, the latter encompassing housewares, catering and technical solutions. Throughout 2015, the company will be strengthening and driving further growth in these channels by way of new product development and the increased use of category management techniques to aid sell out.

Stewart is also building on its sales and marketing assets. The company is developing its online assets and investing in new PoS and merchandising solutions to provide trade partners with refreshed displays that engage consumers with the Stewart brand.

Looking forward to an important year ahead for Stewart, Burns said: "We enjoyed excellent growth last year and the team are now well established in Banbury. With our well-defined focus and investment plans for 2015, we'll achieve our growth plan for this year.

"I look forward to building on the strong relationships that we have in place with our major shareholders, and I am proud to have the opportunity to lead such a strong British manufacturing business.

"As we celebrate our 70th anniversary as a UK manufacturer, I would like to thank everyone in the team for their ongoing support, as we strive together to meet our future ambitious growth plans". 

Key members of the gardening industry will join together to raise money by taking part in a 20-mile sponsored walk along the Thames path through the centre of London. 

The walk, which takes place on Garden Re-Leaf Day (March 27) itself, will start at Ruxley Manor Garden Centre near Sidcup at 8am.  From there, the walkers take the Thames Path and finish at Clifton Nurseries in Paddington, central London.

Glee Event Manager Matthew Mein is organising the walk, and will be joined by his team from i2i Events. GIMA Director Vicky Nuttall, Will Armitage and Iain Wylie (GCA) and Martin Simmons (HTA), Trevor Pfeiffer (GTN), Sarah Cosgrove (Horticulture Week), Craig Hall (Deco-Pak), Chris Houfe (Great British Cards), Mark Long (Paperhouse), Ian Flounders and Richard Newton (Woodlodge) will also take part. Kimberley Hornby and Robbie Cumming from Whitefoot PR will be getting their boots on too, joined by a member of the Greenfingers team.

How you can get involved

Each participant is aiming to raise £500 each in the run up to the event.  If you think you're up for a challenge and want to do something for Greenfingers Garden Re-Leaf this year then this could be your chance - email sarah@greenfingerscharity.org.uk for more details.

It doesn't matter if you can't make the walk -you can still sponsor others who will be in touch with details on how to do so.  All proceeds from the money raised will go directly to the Rosy Cheeks campaign, a Greenfingers initiative which aims to raise £750,000 over a two year period to build at least ten more gardens at children’s hospices across the country.

Other ways to support Greenfingers Garden Re-Leaf day

Get planting - The week before Easter will be crucial this year, so why not kick the season off with growing related events, teach kids to sow cress heads or sunflowers or even host a gardening related games.

Get baking - As popular as ever, baking is also a fantastic way of raising money.  Bake offs, cake sales, coffee mornings - all are accessible ideas and a great way to promote your cafe too.

Get sporty - Walking the Thames Path is a great way to get fit and raise money at the same time.  But you don't have to leave your office or even the shopfloor - plan out a route and use an exercise bike or a treadmill to run, walk or cycle between 'destinations' such as other garden centres or famous landmarks.

Get thinking - This year's quiz has experts from Radio 4's Gardener's Question Time to give it an extra air of authority.  Why not challenge gardening club members to get involved and host as an evening event?

Get selling - selling products under the Loose Change promotion is perhaps the simplest way to support Greenfingers Garden Re-Leaf Day.  Buy or involve your favourite suppliers to purchase Garden Re-Leaf coin stickers - as many as you would like – in 50p or £1 denominations and affix to any product either at point of production or in-store.

There are hundreds of other ways for everyone to raise money on 27th March 2015 - just visit www.gardenreleaf.co.uk/  or email info@gardenreleaf.co.uk for a free pack full of fundraising ideas.

Multipurpose early bird promotions take the lead in the GTN Bestsellers Growing Media chart. The top five lines account for 50% of total top 50 volume.

There is 35% more growing activity going on than last year – a great indicator for the rest of the year.

• Westland Multipurpose (50 litres) knocks Jack’s Magic off the top spot.
• Scotts Levington Multipurpose with John Innes (56 litres) climbs eight places to No 2 in the chart.
• Arthur Bowers Multipurpose (50 litres) is the highest new entry at No 14.

Visitors to next month’s The Edible Garden Show will be able to stake their claim to be top of the plots with the launch of Britain’s Best Allotment sponsored by HIPPO.

The Edible Garden Show is being staged at Alexandra Palace from 20-22 March and allotment enthusiasts should head for the HIPPO-sponsored ‘Potting Shed’ to find out more about the nationwide search to find Britain’s best allotment. Whether you grow for your own enjoyment, to cook or as a family activity HIPPO want to hear all about your allotment experience and will be offering expert tips and advice.

HIPPO is sponsoring the competition in association with the National Allotment Society and National Allotments Week to shed new light on this great British pastime.

The environmentally-friendly, sustainable work of allotment holders is a value which HIPPO feel is important to promote across the country. Always keen to get involved with local communities, such as through HIPPO’s Grants Up for Grabs schemes, the HIPPO brand prides itself on eco-friendly solutions. Approximately 90% of the waste collected in a HIPPOBAG is recycled; making sure that waste removal is always done responsibly and ethically.

Allotment holders who bring pictures of their plot along to the show will be able to enter on the day and the winners will be announced during National Allotments Week in August.

The Edible Garden Show being staged in conjunction with a brand new sister event, Good Life Live, has something for all the family and is packed with not-to-be-missed exhibits featuring a broad range of grow your own products, as well as outdoor living activities and experiences.

In addition to famous chefs Rachel Green and Mark Lloyd, visitors will enjoy an incredible line-up of gardening experts including James Wong, Pippa Greenwood and Paul Peacock, who will be providing new ideas to novice gardeners and seasoned growers alike.

On Saturday, 21 March CBeebies’ Mr Bloom will be popping along to say ‘Ello Tiddlers’ with a bundle of veggie stories, gardening games and catchy songs in a high-energy show.

There will be interactive sessions for children where they can get their hands dirty including learning how to create wooden badges, baking bread in a plant pot and making their own butter in the Make it! area. They can even hold baby chicks in the Chicken Coop, have a field day on the Village Green, meet the animals in the pop up City Farm or get creative in the Family Zone.

To book your tickets, which give access to both The Edible Garden Show and Good Life Live, call the ticket hotline on 0871 230 3451 or visit www.theediblegardenshow.co.uk. 

Members of the Garden Centre Association saw bird food sales soar during January, according to its Barometer of Trade (BoT) results.

Sales of wild bird food and associated products increased 16% during the month compared with 2014 and the association puts it down, simply, to garden birds needing more food in the colder January than the same month last year.

Will Armitage, Chairman of the GCA, explained: “Throughout the winter months it’s important for people to keep bird feeders topped up.

“Birds require high energy, high fat foods during the cold winter weather to maintain their fat reserves so they can survive frosty nights and our BoT results show that kind-hearted people are certainly willing to help out their feathered friends by providing food for them. Healthy garden birds also help keep pest numbers down in the summer months, so it’s important to look after them.”

Sales of seeds and bulbs also did well in January at 12.5% up.

Alan Goold, Partner at Henry Street Garden Centre in Arborfield, Reading, said: “Overall January sales are up with bird food leading the way due mainly to a drop in prices of the raw materials being passed onto the consumer.

“We also managed to sell through a lot of Christmas goods in a New Year sale, which enabled us to get out some new stock for spring and customers seem to be itching to see the new ranges of furniture coming out which are due to land in February so it does look as though people are more confident for the coming season.”

The BoT results, which arethe only official GCA trading figures to be released, also revealed sales of garden sundries at 8.6% up compared to 2014.

Matthew Bent, Chief Executive at Bents Garden & Home in Cheshire, which won a Garden Centre of Excellence award at this year’s GCA conference, said: “January is traditionally a quiet time in the garden centre and retail industry. Christmas is over and it’s still a bit too cold to be out in the garden or getting ready for the season ahead, so it’s important to focus on other product areas to encourage customers to keep visiting.

“Sundries have been good for us, but one of the reasons for our recent expansion is to be able to offer more products and experiences that aren’t seasonally focused. Our food hall, craft shop, cook shop and pet department are all new additions and are already proving beneficial as demonstrated by our January sales figures.”

Creative Gardens, which has centres in Donaghadee, Bushmills and at Galgorm Castle, saw good sales throughout January.

Philip Gass, Finance and Marketing Director at Creative Gardens, said: “January trading was exceptionally good across all centres, like for like our Donaghadee and Bushmills centres saw increases of 23% and 36%, café sales continue to be strong but the significant increases in the garden centres are have arisen from a conscious effort to promote value and take advantage of the post-Christmas sale mentality. 

“Traditionally sales in the first week of January have come largely from discounted Christmas goods, this year we expanded the scope of our sale offer significantly and encouraged a greater spend across all departments, even outdoorplants.”

Another garden centre that saw good sales through January was Haskins Ferndown.

General Manager, Matt Hill, said: “Footfall remained strong during January. Our post-Christmas shoppers focused on bird care and garden lighting within sundries and we enjoyed strong sales in clothing and gifts. The restaurant catering team also benefited from the influx coming in from the cold and wet!”

Clothing sales were also up in January by 10.26% compared to 2014.

William Blake, Manager at St Peter’s Garden Centre in Worcester, said: “Our Clothing department has been performing exceptionally well over the past 12 months, with full year sales up 64%. We took the decision to introduce more ‘fashionable’ brands to the department and it has definitely paid off. In addition, we actively purchase ‘star buys’ for women and men for each month, which sell very well. These are normally well recognised leading brands, at promotional prices e.g. up to 50% off.

“A good percentage of our clothing sales come from impulse purchases, and therefore items priced below £20, £30 and £40 work particularly well.

“January 2015 sales were 25% up, although a great deal of this will be clearance and end of season. January clothing sales have also benefitted from the colder weather.”

The GCA BoT reports are compiled using actual sales figures and provide an up-to-date trading position statement. They are made available mid-month following the end of the prior month after all member garden centres have submitted their results.

The reports allow members to compare their trading positions with other centres.

Little works of art will soon start to bloom ready for early spring in the garden. With abstract splashes of colour, these plants are none other than the popular pansy and viola, and the Horticultural Trades Association’s (HTA) Plant of the Month for March 2015.

These hardy, reliable plants have one of the widest colour ranges and can brighten up any garden space by being planted in beds, borders, containers and hanging baskets. In fact they are a great plant to back the Love the Plot you’ve Got campaign from the Garden Industry Marketing Board.

Recommended varieties include:Viola 'Aspasia', Viola cucullata, Viola 'Jackanapes' and Viola 'Moonlight'.

The common words ‘pansy’ and ‘violet’ are often used interchangeably. Plants considered to be pansies have four petals pointing upwards, and only one pointing down, while violets have three petals pointing up and two pointing down. Both can tolerate sun and cooler temperatures, and benefit from the removal of faded or dead flowers to prolong blooming and to encourage more flowers to grow. 

When planting pansies and violas in the garden it’s worthwhile considering some contrasting companion plants like shrubs which can complement their mix of colour and lower height. Daphne bholua ‘Jacqueline Postil’, also known as Nepalese paper plant, is an evergreen medium-sized shrub with highly fragrant deep pink and white flowers that are followed by black berries. While, Euphorbia amygdaloides var. robbiae, also known as Mrs Robb's bonnet, is a spreading evergreen perennial with dark green leaves from which arise large rounded sprays of yellow-green flowers.

Broadcaster and gardener, Esther Rantzen CBE, the celebrity champion for the month has a great love for pansies and violas. She says, “I love pansies for their soft colours, all the shades of blues, purples and golds, and for their faces, turned down, as if in contemplation. As Ophelia said, ‘There’s pansies, that’s for thoughts’ – and indeed the name comes from the French, pensees. They look fragile, but in fact they are tough, they can survive anything except the burning summer heat, and they seed themselves and return, year after year. And outside the garden wall their little wild cousins, the violets, send out their fragrance to reassure us that spring is on its way”.

Nominated and agreed upon by British growers and retailers, the HTA’s Plant of the Month campaign highlights the plants that are widely available and looking especially good each month.

For more details, please visit www.the-hta.org.uk/plantofthemonth

New from Bosmere for the 2015 season is the Protector Plus range of weatherproof, fully reversible furniture and BBQ covers with superior UV protection to prevent fading. 

The covers benefit from the technical expertise of Bosmere’s parent company that produces advanced protection materials for both industrial and consumer markets.

Manufactured from tough woven polyethylene, they have an easy care wipe clean surface. Either surface can be used for the outer cover which means that consumers can choose either black or green to suit their particular preference as the covers are fully reversible. In order to ensure that the covers are securely fastened, cord and cord lock fixings with solid brass eyelets are built in to each cover. 

Also new to the market for 2015 are the first and only L-shaped Modular Covers which reflect the changes in garden furniture styles. The covers offer the ideal care solution for a full L-shaped modular set including seating and the central table. The stylish black, woven polyester covers are expertly sewn to fit perfectly and complement the design of modern garden furniture sets. 

Following several years of decline, the conservatory market started to recover in 2012/13 and was estimated to be worth around £620m at the end of 2014.

A combination of a recovery in the economy in general - and the housing market in particular - have helped underpin rising consumer confidence and spending on higher value home improvements – particularly with interest rates so low. 

Over the last few years, the market has become more sophisticated in terms of product range and offers more options for a bespoke project – options now include conservatories, glazed extensions which might have a solid or a glass roof, orangeries, verandas, loggias etc. Key product features which have become more important in the conservatory market include improved thermal efficiency, high specification self-cleaning glass, coloured frames, bifold opening doors etc.

In terms of frame materials, PVC-U continues to dominate, but timber has a reasonable share and has retained its attraction for many homeowners due to its natural appearance and sustainability credentials. Aluminium remains a more expensive option and while it has retained a niche share in the domestic market, aluminium bifold doors have gained widespread consumer acceptance.

Key suppliers are a mix of national retail brands, local suppliers and specialist conservatory installers. However, in broad terms, the supply structure for conservatories remains very complex and fragmented, reflecting the structure of the replacement window market. The conservatory roof systems sector is dominated by two leading players, both of which have expanded in recent years through acquisition. Consolidation is likely to remain a feature of the conservatory market, though a trend to more bespoke installations provides opportunities for local companies.

Main channels of distributions are replacement window companies, garden centres, DIY outlets, conservatory specialists, builders and online. In the ‘self-build’ conservatory sector, the distribution focus has switched from DIY outlets to online conservatory specialists, who offer a wider range of product options than those offered by DIY outlets.

Market improvement in 2015 and beyond is likely to be driven by an improving house moving market, growing consumer confidence and growth in the retrofit/upgrade market – particularly if interest rates remain at historically low levels. However, substantial increases in volumes or value are not expected in the short–medium term.

Market growth will only be possible if the UK economy sees sustained growth, alongside improvements in the house moving market, disposable incomes, and consumer confidence. 

“In the longer term, our forecasts indicate steady growth, but we do not expect to see a return to the peak volumes achieved in the early-mid 2000s” said Andrew Hartley, Director of AMA Research. “However, work on existing conservatories will become a more important part of the conservatory/glazed installation market in the UK in the coming years, as more homeowners either replace or upgrade older models.”

The market for conservatories and glazed extensions in the UK is forecast to see relatively buoyant rates of growth in the medium term, and is expected to reach a value of over £760m in 2018 - though this is dependent on continuing recovery in the housing market and consumer confidence remaining buoyant.

The ‘Domestic Conservatory and Glazed Extensions Market Report – UK 2014-2018 Analysis’ report is published by AMA Research, a leading provider of market research and consultancy services within the construction and home improvement markets. The report is available now and can be ordered online at www.amaresearch.co.uk or by calling 01242 235724.

With a proven history of supporting new talent in their journey from education through to launching into the working world, Provender Nurseries have proved again that they have a talent for choosing designers with a flair for excellent garden design.

Vanessa Hoch and Rachel Pocock of VaRA Garden Design won a design competition in 2014 run by Provender Nurseries in conjunction with Capel Manor College Enfield Campus with their design ‘Foundations for Growth’.  The garden has now also been selected by the RHS Application panel for Hampton Court Palace Flower Show in 2015. 

The garden will be Vanessa and Rachel’s first show garden.  With the combined sponsorship and experience of Provender Nurseries and Capel Manor College, they will be in good hands to steer them through their journey.

‘Foundations for Growth’ is based around the journey students take through their education and reflects the hard work and determination to succeed.  The garden has solid winter interest, great plant structure, strong form and complementary accent planting with impressive colour association.  The differing heights of Fagus sylvatica and Fagus sylvatica ‘Atropurpurea’ punctuate the planting and represent the building blocks of learning to be overcome and developed in a student’s journey. 

Recognised in the industry for their pioneering work with horticultural colleges and students, Provender Nurseries are immensely proud to be working in conjunction with Capel Manor and their students throughout the sourcing and building of ‘Foundations for Growth’ at Hampton Court.

Students from Capel Manor College will work alongside Vanessa and Rachel to plant and construct ‘Foundations for Growth’ and as such will have an excellent opportunity to undertake the real process of creating a show garden. 

A Writtle College postgraduate has won first place in a photography competition run by the Forest Stewardship Council.

Marion Sidebottom, who is an MA by Research in Art and Design student at Writtle School of Design, took a stunning black and white image of an ancient hornbeam tree in Hatfield Forest.

The photograph has now been named as the winner of the Terrific Trees category and has gone through to the final shortlist for the 2014 FSC UK Photography Competition, which is decided by a public vote on Facebook.  

Marion, who lives in Chelmsford, said: “Photographing trees has become a passion and obsession in the last few years. I seek out unusual tree specimens and aim to capture their character and essence. I am thrilled to win this stage of the award and to have the chance of becoming the People's Choice. I extend a thank you to everyone who supports me in this.”

Marion graduated with a BSc degree from Writtle College in 1995 and, after a change in direction, returned in 2013 to study a Foundation Diploma in Art and Design, gaining a Distinction. She is about to submit her MA dissertation entitled The Tree in Photographs: What are the key artistic influences and personal motivations of 21st Century tree photographers?

Her final exhibition for her MA was an installation of trees and photographs of 900-year-old dead oaks in a remote field near marshland in Mundon, Essex. She researched their history and unearthed the link between marshland and salt, and how it probably contributed to their demise.

Voting for the photography prize is open until the end of February (00:01 on 1^st March 2015). The winner of the People’s Choice will be awarded expert photography tuition with Edward Parker and a Go Ape Family ticket.

Vote for Marion’s work by visiting:  https://www.facebook.com/fsc.uk/photos/a.1031630173519270.1073741825.141282405887389/1031630456852575/?type=1&theater

For more information about the courses at WSD, please visit www.writtle.ac.uk

Experienced Head Gardener John Hawley is joining the team at Gordon Castle Walled Garden in Fochabers, Moray, on 16 February 2015. RHS trained, John is the former National Trust Head Gardener at Sizergh Castle in Cumbria, and before that was Assistant Head Gardener at Hardwick Hall in Derbyshire. He comes to the 8.5 acre, Arne Maynard designed, Walled Garden project with experience and excitement in equal measure.

Speaking about his appointment, John says, “I have been looking for the next challenge in my horticultural career for some time and when I heard about the opportunity at Gordon Castle I knew I had to take a look. It’s not often you get the chance to – almost – build a garden from scratch and with such a magnificent design already in place, I am going to love helping bring it all together.”

Angus Gordon Lennox says, “We are all thrilled that John is joining the team. His wealth of experience, demonstrable passion for horticulture and excitement at the challenge of continuing to create the garden here at Gordon Castle, will stand him in great stead. This year marks an important year for moving the garden forward. Now that our café and shop are open, and the bare bones of the garden design are in place, we are keen to get on with finishing the structure and filling the beds to give our visitors an additional experience unique to our Estate.”

The children’s play area will be opened to the public this year. Using the trunk of the 270-year-old Gordon Castle ash, felled by the winter storms of 2013, as the central ‘climbing frame’, this area has been designed to offer children a natural and sensory opportunity to play and explore. The structure and pathways of the four beds of ribboned herbs, surrounding the central dipping pool, are almost complete and will be planted this spring, as will the annual vegetable and cut flower beds leading out from this area. Two thirds of the beautiful original glasshouse has been restored and is in use while the final third is due to be glazed this spring.

John is relocating his family from Cumbria to Gordon Castle Estate to begin work in the garden on 16 February. The garden, once fully restored, will be the largest fully productive walled garden in Scotland. It provides fresh produce for the Castle Estate, the Walled Garden café and shop and for the new and unique range of Gordon Castle Scotland products available to purchase at the garden and online. The Gordon Castle Gin, containing botanicals grown in the Walled Garden, is now stocked in Harrods and Fortnum & Mason in addition to over 250 independent wine and spirits merchants across the UK.

The Gordon Castle Walled Garden café is open daily from 10am for delicious homemade cakes and snacks, lunch is served daily and supper is served on Friday and Saturday evenings. The Walled Garden shop is open daily from 11am, selling a wonderful selection of Gordon Castle Scotland products and seasonal produce from the garden.

For further information about the ongoing restoration of this historic garden, visit www.gordoncastlescotland.com or follow the garden’s progress on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

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

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

As the year goes on we give sales volume comparisons with 2012 as well as 2013 to allow your teams to see variations over a three year period.

Access is by subscription only.  For £145.00 per year you and your team can have access to the most upto date gardening sales analysis that has already helped many UK garden centres increase their sales.  To subscribe call 01733 775700, e-mail karen.pfeiffer@tgcmc.co.uk or buy on-line using this link.

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

Highlights of the GTN Veg-2-Gro Products Bestsellers chart for this week are here

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

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