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Rain dances required
Itwas great to see so many GTNreaders over thethree days of SOLEX at the NEC.Well done to the exhibitors and LOFA forputting on an excellent show. By all accounts it was successful in terms of orders placed, newaccounts signedupand appointmentsfor further visits AfterSOLEX it’s full steam aheadonGlee preparation forthe GTNteam. We’vejust published the Glee Pre-ShowGuideand the first issue of Glee Daily News. Then after thisissue has gone to pressour next task is thebumperGTN Glee Previewissue. We arealso startingtosee Glee NewProduct Awards entries cominginwhere there will be plenty of innovation thisyear Sad news reached us justafter SOLEX that Andy Bunker has died followinga shortbattle with pancreatic cancer.Andy wasalways so helpfulto GTN providingregular insight and comment, he will be sadly missed not least at Gleewhere he hasbeen ajudge for the NewProductAwardsfor many years. Ourthoughtsare with hisfamily and all his colleagues.
On ahappier note, we were privileged to honour the efforts of the 23 climbers whotook on the Kilimanjarochallengefor Greenfingers at the Greenfingers Summer Ball. The totalraisedfrom their efforts nowstands at £257,752.86 +£35,585.41 in Gift Aid. That means the children’sgarden at Naomi &Jacks HospiceinWinchester will go aheadfunded just by the challengefundraising. A staggering achievement. Youcan read moreabout
the personal experiences of the challenge in this issue.
Lastly acomment on the weather.Back in April we were longing fora warm spell so that people could get outand spend time in theirgarden. No onewould havepredicted the runofheatwaves and lack of rainfall we’vehad that means gardens areOKfor BBQ’sand sunbathing but not great for plants and planting.Now we all need to be doing rain dances twiceaday to get tradegoing again andheavily promoteautumnplanting Heads down now. Glee opens on 8th September!
The Greenfingers Kilimanjaroteamraisedastaggering£294,000 last month to create amagical gardenatNaomi &Jacks Children’s Hospice in Winchester. All they hadto do wastrektothe TopofAfrica, thesummit of Mount Kilimanjaroat5,895 metres.We areinawe of everything they achieved,itwas atruly amazingachievementwhich we were honoured to be abletoreport on in GTNXtra. Here we give ournormal GTN interview space to members of the teamtotalkaboutthe challenge in their words…
Kate Ebbens, Greenfingers ambassador and brainchildofthe KilimanjaroChallenge.
“MyKilimanjaroexperiencewas oneofthe most rewarding and emotional journeysofmylife. Alongside my partner,Matt, andanincredible team of 23 people, Itook on thechallenge of climbingthe highest mountainin Africa to raise moneyfor Greenfingers Charity.The trek tested us allwith freezing temperatures, high altitude and physicalexhaustion,but thefriendships,
teamwork andunwaveringsupport we shared made everystepworthwhile. Ourmantra throughoutthe journeywas "One Team. One Dream. OneChallenge."Itperfectlycaptured thespirit of the expeditionasweencouraged one another,celebrated everymilestone and ultimately reached thesummittogether
“For me,Kilimanjarowas neverjustabout climbing amountain. It wasabout bringing peopletogether to make areal difference for children with life-limitingillnessesand their families.Together,wehaveraised over £255,000 forGreenfingers Charity, helpingtocreate beautiful hospice gardens whereprecious memories can be made. Icouldn'tbeprouder of what we achieved as ateam, andI'm especially grateful to Matt, whowas by my side throughout everychallenge andevery unforgettable moment. Kilimanjaroreinforcedmybelief that when people unitebehind ashared purpose— OneTeam. OneDream.One Challenge.— extraordinarythingsreally arepossible”
Matt Rowlandson, Kate's partner
“When Katesuggested climbing Kilimanjaro,I clearly didn’t ask enoughquestions! Ithought it wasgoing to be abit of walking up abig hill —how wrong could Ibe? The viewswere incredible,especially walking abovethe clouds, but the freezing temperatures,altitude, aching legs and lack of oxygen certainly tested us! Thankfully,the amazing team spirit,plentyof laughter and “One Team. One Dream. One Challenge.” kept us moving.
“Wewereincredibly luckytohaveCharity Challenge supporting us throughout. The guides, porters andteam were absolutely fantastic keepingusfed, hydrated, motivatedand moving when some of us were questioning whether our legs still worked!Without theirincredible support, Ihonestly don’tthink we would have reached the summit. I’mhugelyproud of what we achievedand that, together,weraised over£255,000 for GreenfingersCharity.An unforgettable experience—and yes, I’mstill blaming Katefor the wholething!”
AlexaBlackmore, The Gardens Group
“Kilimanjarowas the bestand mostchallenging experience of my life, simplynootherway to say it. Tanzaniaisbeautiful,and hiking uphill for 6days through damp,humid jungle, with monkeys, giantheather that reachesoveryour head, and long lichen hanging in thehaze. The alpinedesert, the Arctic desert, and thesandy dustthat blows. Seriously,there is more dust on Kilimanjarothan in my house, and that’s difficult to achieve.Every timewe crossed intoanew climatezone,itfelt as if aline had been drawn, andthe plant life changed immediately.It was perhaps the most unusual natural landscape scenario Ican imagine. AlthoughI don’tneed to,asIsaw it withmyown eyes,which in itself is hardtobelieve
“The long hikes through tough terraindid not surprise me;I wassurprised that Imanaged each day with no aches or pains. The realisation that my training hadpaid off-Ihad trainedfor
eighteenmonthsfor this.I signedupinJanuary 2025;Iread andreread theadvice. Itookit seriously,and oh boy, wasIgratefulthatI had. Iwentthrough thepainwhile training,and not at altitude, whererecovery is hard.I wasable to rest because Ihad trained withanaltitudetraining mask at home forseveral months, so my sleep wasn’t toodisrupted.Unbelievably,I slept well, justask my long-sufferingtentmate Tammy
“One teammatewas suffering from extreme altitude sicknessand neededtoget to the next camp forair rescue. Howhecontinued up theBrancowall,I have no idea,but hisgrit, determinationand sheerwillgot himthere. Averybrave anddeterminedman. Iholdan enormous respectfor him.
“Weall relied upon ourdetermination at differentpoints, diggingdeep, drawingstrength from wherewecould
“My battlewas on summitnight, Ihad been incrediblyluckynot to have suffered from any particular altitudesymptoms, justa bitqueasy, a mild headache early on,I hadnot hadastomach upset(Ihavenever usedsomuch hand sanitizer in my life)the battlecame from sheer altitude andthe climbinthe dark,I hadbuilt this night up to be hard,tobesocold, andinfact Iended up over heating, Ihad to stop to take layers off to be able to continue, thenext part wasthe sheer lack of oxygen,sufferingfromthe worst headrush of my life,feeling so dizzyIalmost fell.After that, Iwalked slowly, “pole pole” with my summit porter, Solomon. Each of us walked with aporterthatnight; they kept aclose eyeon us, andweall agreed we couldnot have done it without them
“SummitingatStella Pointat6am as thesun spread wide over thehorizon,I cannot describe thefeeling of thesun appearing;I thinkitwas hope, relief andbeliefthatI might actually do this. The night hadseemedtobeendless; Ihavenever been so happytosee asunrise before.Words cannot describe it.Things got so much easier after that moment, although the realisation of howfar we stillhavetowalk to
reach the Uhuru point, the actual summit, was becoming apparent.
“I summitedatUhuru Point with most of ourteam, afinalpush acrossthe spikey icetoa wonderful, clear blue skyand warmth.
“The turnaround wasswift,onlya few minutes at thesummitbeforethe newtask of thedescent, back down to base camp on thesametrack, passing fellowclimbers on theirway summiting;the sunwas shining,the smiles abundant andthe word Jambo Jambo, congratulations(Hello HelloCongratulations), frequentasIpassedthe guides and porters still heading up,
“Wewentdownswiftly,skidding and slipping, walking poles outstretched in front,exhilarated, andthe feeling of joy, havingtoremind myself to be careful;each step lowerbecame easier to breathe,afeeling of lightnessand ease. Altitude is apowerful beast.
“Huge tears of joyand achievement. Knowing that that night will notonlyimpact me, but also that themoney raised willhelpfamilies battling in ways far deeper andharder than Ihaveever known,including on summit night
“Thankyou,Kilimanjaro; youare a magnificent mountain
“Most importantly, thank youtomy colleagues andsponsors fortheirsupport; withoutthem,I couldnot haveraised the incredible amountdonated.Thank youall forevery contribution.100%ofthe money we collectively raised willcreatealifeenhancinggardenfor familiesatNaomi and Jack's children's andyoungadults' hospicein Winchester, benefitingfamiliesfor decades to come.”
GreenfingersKilimanjaroChallenge
TamWoodhouse, Greenfingers Trustee
“I wasreally nervous beforethe challenge.Lots of doubts and worries. HadI done enough training? Howwould the altitude affectme? Would my kneesbeok. HadI packed the rightgear,had Igot enough snacks! Ben [my husband] kept reminding me that it wasalso meanttobefun and an adventureso I tried to convincemyself that my nerveswerereally just excitement. Once we got to theairport it was greattomeetthe rest of the team andrealise they were all feeling thesame. Then it was brilliant to startwalking and from that moment on it wasjust about putting one foot in front of the otherand enjoying the amazing experience
“My best moment wasthe sun starting to rise andseeing the topofthe mountain not that far above us. Therewas ahugesenseofelation watching the sun come up from Stella point
“The worst moment wasthe hour beforethe suncame up.Trudging very slowly withnoidea what the time was, howfar there wastogoand my back ribs aching with the effortofbreathing.
body andmindcan do.Definitely oneofthe best experiencesofmylife andI’m proudofwhatwe achievedasa team.Not only conquering the mountainbut theamazingamountofmoney that we have raised forGreenfingers
Danny &JodieRowlinson,Team Max Foundation
“Climbing Kilimanjarohas always been on my husband Danny's andmywishlist afterwe visitedbeautiful Tanzania forour Honeymoon. Forwell over ayear we trained andfundraised andwhenthe departureday finally arrivedwe both feltexcited but nervous too.
“On thetrekI suffered abit with altitude sickness butthe camaraderieofthe team really helpedmetokeepgoing.There were times Ifeared Iwouldn’tbeabletomakesummitasI felt so bad. Before we left theUKafamilywho had sadly lost theirson to abrain tumour had givenmeapoem theyhad written,whichIkept in my pocket all the waytothe top. Support from them and the picture of what couldbeachievedatNaomi and Jack’s children hospicewas what spurred me to keep putting onefootinfront of the other.
LibbyStubbs,EventsManager at BritishGardenCentres
“For me, andI'm suremany of my other family, this very quicklybecame much more than climbing amountain. We all knew it wasgoingto bring ourown personalchallenges, but in turn created sucha strong fundraisingfoundation. Lookingback at this adventure nowwhenwe made theseven hour summittrekinthe dark,I can truly rememberittobethe most amazing andjoyous challenge
“I'd heardsomany stories of howitchanged people's lives,and Ididn'treallyknowhow that waspossible. That wasuntil Isat in the doctor's priortohavingmyinjections so that Icould come on thetrip.Soscared that Ieven made thenurse cry. Uh.But in that moment, mum looked at me andsaid, we'refundraising forall thesechildren. They arestrongsoyou canbestrong. So Idid it andthat wasthe first change forme. Iwas petrified of needles, but context immediately changed my perspective. Foranyonethatknows me, also knowsthat I massively struggle withfoodonsomanylevels, anddon't get me wrong, Iwas very impressed with thefood. Our amazing support team, brought outeach meal. We hadpancakes! However, with thenausea that came alongside altitudesickness, Iwas reallystruggling to eat anything.Thiswas leadingtomefeeling absolutelyexhausted withdays stilltogo.
“The team were ahuge motivation. We really didsupporteach other all the wayup. When anyone wasfeeling down or findingithardthe others picked us up.Welaughed, talked, sang and danced our waythrough thewholechallenge.
“Eventhough it washard, oncewestarted the final ascent therewas no doubtin my mindthat Iwas going to makeittothe top. I remember thinking in aweeks’time this willall be behind youand none of the discomfortwill matter anymoreand that wasso true. Even as we reached thetop thechallenge of theclimb startedtodiminish. Iswore neveragainand now we’reall talking about what our next challenge should be!
“I feel amassivesenseofachievement.It’s given me confidenceinmyself andinwhatyour
“Our sonMax wastreated forcancer when he wasyoungerand we know thebenefits of stepping outside andtakinga moment. We both wanted to be abletogivethatgiftfor other families.
“The plansfor thegardenatNaomi andJack’s areabsolutely stunning andwecan’twaittosee them put into action. Thesense of achievement we feel forstanding on theroofofAfrica will be nothingto what we feel when we standinthe completed gardenwhich willserve families for years to come.”
PhillippaStubbs,British Garden Centres
“This mountain threw everything at us from altitude, exhaustion, freezing temperatures in the middle of the night. Butnoneofthat compares to what the familiesatNaomi Housefaceevery singleday.Ifwecan givethem somewhere beautiful to breathe, somewherepeacefultojust betogether,then everyblister wasworth it.This was achallengetocelebratemy50thbirthday and standing on that summit as the suncame up, Iwouldn'thavechanged it forthe world. Nowwe just need to finish what we startedand get this garden built and change lives forthe children and their familiesinthe hospice.”
“Sotherehad to be achange in my mindset andveryquickly,onaveryscenicmoment, we satonarockone lunchtime,veryelegantly, bawling my eyes out. Ilookedupatthe mountain,lookedback down, back up again, and something in my head justclicked.I knew after beingverywell educated by my mum,thanks mum.That therewas no wayIwas gettingto thetop unless Ifacemyfears andfor many a very simplepasta dish in front of me. These all maybe sound like minorthingstoother people, but formeweremygreatestworries ahead of theclimb andonesthatI couldn't reallyprepare for. Butnow Isee what helped my development anddiscovering what I'm reallycapableof. Thereweretwo keyfactors in this that Ithink areworth highlighting. Icould tackle this with thethought andthe bravery, thestrength that thechildreninthese hospiceshavealongside thesupport of everymorning waking up to the stunning sceneryofMountKilimanjaro. And this only strengthened my thoughts on the crudereality of thethousandsofchildrenand families that Greenfingers have provided the smileinducing, safe andrelaxing outdoor spaces to in moments of difficulty. Ican only speak for myself,but I'm sureifyou get theopportunity, get theopportunity to speaktoone of the challenge superstars
“Theycan tell yousomany morestories,
whether that be about freezing night temperatures, steepvolcanic terrain with sheer dropsbesideus, more of what troubles altitude sicknessbrought us, or thereality of wild,verywild camping.All these demanded extraordinarydetermination, gritand resilience.But we had apurpose forthischallenge,which meant the momentsour bodies wanted to stop and our minds questionedthe possibilityofgetting to the top. We did it together withencouragement and alot of karaoke.
“Thank youfor the friendship,the memories andunforgettable experience.And throughall of this non-stop smiles. So when an opportunity likethis arises for youinthe future.Ihavetwo bitsof advice.Doitand do it smiling.Iwon't kid you. It probablywon't be easy.And there's definitely going to be moments whereyou question whyyou ever saidyes. Butthe senseofachievement,knowing that youare so much morecapablethanwhat youbelieved, thefundraising andthe supportthat then provides to incredible charitieslike Greenfingers, allowing them to continue igniting happinessand letting familiesflourish through their time in the hospices will stay with you long after youreturn home. Thank you.
The final wordsgotoGreenfingers Director of Fundraising &Communications, LindaPetrons.
"On behalf of everyone at GreenfingersCharity,Iwould like to beginby saying ahuge thank youto our team of trekkers.Yourdetermination, resilienceand commitment to takeonthischallenge wasnothing shortofinspiring
“I would also liketothank the2,129 individualsand businesses who supportedthe team everystepofthe way. Whether yousponsored an individual, backed the wholeteam, or supportedthe challengeas one of our valued corporatepartners,your generosityhas been truly overwhelming
“Together,you havehelpedraise an outstanding amountthatwill enable ustocreateabeautiful newgardenatNaomi andJack’s, where children with life-limitingconditions, young adults and their families canspend precious time togetherawayfromthe clinicalenvironment, creatingmemories that will last alifetime
“This is farmorethan afundraising achievement;itisa lasting legacy that will bringa hugeamountofcomforttofamiliesfor many years to come. What an extraordinarylegacy from achallenge that will touch so many lives."
Meet the Killi Trekkers
•KateEbbens, Woodlodge, Greenfingers Ambassador
•Heidi BaylisTowse,Greenfingers Trustee and Blue Diamond
•Phillippa Stubbs and LibbyStubbsofBritish GardenCentres
•GreenfingersAmbassador,Bob Marley
•Alexa BlackmorefromThe Gardens Group
•Matt JonesofSipcam and his partnerNicola
•MatthewRowlandson, Dobsons
•Daniel andJodie Rowlandson, Team Max Foundation
•TaraAdams from Woodmansterne
•Nicole and David Higginson of NewLeafPlants
•RichardHowardofDoddingtonNurseries along with TiaBlunt
With an extensive product portfolio, innovative merchandising solutionsand an experienced nationwidesales team,APACisbringingmorethan four decadesofwholesale expertise to thegarden centre market.
Trading for morethan 40 years, APAC Group has been at the heartofthe UK floristry wholesale trade. The privately owned, family-run businessbeganwithflorist supplies and has growntobecomethe UK’s largest floristrywholesaler
Organic growth and acquisitions, including Swift Importsand Country Baskets, haveexpanded APAC’s product offer.Today,its scale, experienceand trend-led approach help retailerscreate inspiring,commercially successful displays.
APAC’s growing garden centre offer is backed by a17-strong UK sales team,
supportedbyHeadofSales
Hannah Shoesmith. Itsportfolio spans artificial flowers andfoliage, Christmas,pots, horticulturalproducts andgiftware, ranges that have been carefullycurated by experiencedbuyers, category managers andmerchandisers. APAC’s 20,000sqft Rothley showroomisnow ready withits 2027 collections. Retailers can book ashowroom visit throughtheir sales representative.
At Glee 2026,APACwill unveilnew products and in-storesolutions designedtounlock cross-merchandising opportunities, encourage linked sales andgivecustomers reasons to return throughoutthe seasons. At its heartisThe FlowerShop,ascalable shop-in-shop concept developed from this year’s FlowerStand. The Flower Shop brings together APAC’s three artificial brands; Essential Silk, Real LifeSilkand Botanica alongside Kiyoglassware, BloomCraftflorist sundries, Hortus ceramics and Weave basket ware
The coordinated displaymakes it easy for consumerstocreatecomplete arrangements whilehelpingretailers drive linked sales. Flexible enoughtosuit the spaceavailable and refresh with theseasons, The FlowerShop creates an inspiring destinationwithinthe garden centre
Made for Christmas launches in November
From 9thNovember 2026,garden centres will be abletodiscoverMadefor Christmas, APAC’s establishedfestivecollection, as it launches to thesector. Spanning trees, lighting,decorationsand props, the range hasalready provedsuccessful with leading high-end retailers
Createdfor retailers seeking something different, Madefor Christmas combines distinctive, coordinatedthemeswith highly competitive pricing.The collection will be presentedinAPAC’sRothley,Leicester showroom andshowcased at Harrogate, enablingbuyers to plan acomplete Christm ff with th tofthe
Christmas o er with the support of the same knowledgeable sales team.
Meet APAC at Glee 2026 on stand 19 G40-H41 to discover how more than four decades of experience
xp
can deliver greater impact,stronger categories and freshcommercial opportunitiesfor garden retail.
To visit the 2027 showroom, contact your APAC sales representative to book an appointment.
APAC GroupLtd
Loughborough Road,Rothley, Leicestershire,LE7 7NL
Here be dragons
This summer’s trial of 135snapdragons at FloralFantasia, theonlyone of itskindinthe country,isavaluable resource to helpgrowers andretails make choices fornextyear.
Fromcompact dwarfformstotowering spikes forcut flowers, theantirrhinum trial at Floral Fantasia has something foreveryone.It’sbeentwo decades since antirrhinums were last trialledand within that time,therehavebeen big leaps in breeding
The135 being grownthis year within theFloral Fantasia demonstration garden, at RHSGarden Hyde Hall in Essex,showjust howthe choice of snapdragons has increased in thattime,with more blooms, double flowers, an expanding array of colours, longer improved uniformity and better disease resistance.
Only one A.‘Floral Showers Deep Bronze’ has an existing RHS AwardofGarden Merit, so there’sgreat potential for the other 134toend the summer with this covetedaward
This independenttrial,which is open to the public, is ararity.Most trials arecurated by companieskeentoshowtheir owncultivars,but at Floral Fantasia, any breedercan take part.All plants aregrown in the same wayallowingfor true comparison
Sakata is particularly strong in antirrhinums especiallyinthe UK and its UK SalesManager
Tim Johnssays the trial is open and fair.“Here youcan compareeverything equallywhich is great for testing the genetics. I’dliketo see this replicated up and down thecountrysowecan getthe data to comparetimes up and down the country.”
Michael Smith, from nearbyWD Smith growers and MeadowCroft Garden Centre, says plants are assessed by the panel four timesbetween early June and lateAugust, enabling afairassessment to be made as plants mature. But visitors tooget their say,and vote fortheir favourite.
“What we arefinding is thatplantshave flushes of flowerand thenare greenagainbefore the nextflush, so what looked great last week, mightnot be as colourful the next. By assessing fourtimes, there’s averygoodchancewewill see plants at all their stages,”hesays. “The trial is going to show us the strength of thegeneticsto allowthe plants to keep flowering through to the end of theseason.”
Benefits to industry
Seeing the trial from both agrowerand aretailer viewpointiscertainly helping Michael. Impressive performanceof A.‘Sweet DuetRoseShades’
Trailing forms arealso being growntoshowhow they perform in pots. However, theycould be challengingto manage inaretail environment.
MichaelSmith is an industrychampion of Floral Fantasia.
hasconvincedhim it needs to sellitatretail in a1-liteoreven2-litre pot. Originally retailed as jumbo bedding,hecan see itsbroad habit andwide flowerspikeslends itself to alarger potwithbetter sales potential.“I’mselling the rightgeneticsbut in thewrong product.Once yousee all thevarietiestogether,you beginto understand howtheycan work better.” he says. It hasalsogiven thechance to seealternative colours whichheislikelytoadd to hisrange in thefuture.
Growersand retailersare invitedtovisit the trial anytime, as it is open during thesamehours as theRHS GardenHydeHall. At thesame time they can enjoythe demonstrationgardenwhere
plants aregrown in ways similar to thosein home gardens.Recentlyre-designed by James AlexanderSinclair, theFloralFantasiagarden nowhas wider pathways andbeds with better 360degvisionmakeiteasiertoappreciateplants from all angles.Mostwill havea70-30 split of shrubs to seasonal planting, plus the garden is home to manyornamental pots with examples of excellent combinations
Floral Fantasia, aproject begunbythe late PeterSeabrook to benefitgardenersand the horticultural trade acrossthe UK, is supported by MiracleGro.Zinnia will be subject of trials for 2027
Antirrhinum‘MangoTwist’fromDTBrown is available as seed to gardeners at retail. Thecombination of yellowand orange wasimpressiveand anyone would be delighted to have this in aborder,but compared to others in the trial, itshabit wasnot as robust.
Thecolourofcut flowertype Antirrhinum‘Opus Lavender’ from Syngentastood out, with little else matching its shade.
Snapdragons in thedemonstration garden with cosmos and salvia.
Michaelwill be lookingtogrowA.‘SweetDuetRose Shades’, awidebranching form, in a1-litre pot fornext summer.
Putting thefinishing touches to thenewly designed Floral Fantasiagarden.
Visitorsare encouraged to vote fortheir favourite.
Two shows,one visit
Visitors to Glee2026 benefitfromsourcinggardening andlifestyle with home and gift thankstoco-location with Autumn Fair.
This year marks an important milestone in the historyofGlee (8–10Sept) at the NECBirmingham as it co-locateswith Autumn Fair (6–9 Sept). Togethertheybring to UK buyers Europe's largest combinedhome and garden trade showinthe second half of theyear In onesingle trip, and at no extracost, visitors can seekeepontrend with10,000 products from morethan 460exhibitors across 11 different sectors spanning garden, outdoor living, and lifestyle. Look out forHillInteriors and QuirkyBarn in Home, Living and Décor; Funtime Gifts and Widdop&CoinGift and Moda Express plus Suzie Blue in Fashion.
As the showevolves and continues to cater for changing visitor expectations, threenew sectorsdebut this year -FoodHall, Food & Beverage and Home &Garden Improvement.
Learn from the best
Accessing both shows means visitors can take advantage of moreexpert-ledseminars andtake inspiration from agreater diversity of subjects from leading keynotespeakers and retail gurus.
“It’sgreat to see lots of new products in oneplace and source small companies and niche newproductswe wouldn’t have necessarily found if we didn’t attend.” Blue Diamond.
Newsectorsfor Glee 2026
•FOOD HALL. Find speciality food wholesale, artisanfoodsuppliers, gourmet food brands andfoodand drink wholesale. Forbuyers sourcing fora gardencentrefoodhall, farm shop or deli, this is theplace to find products from companiesincludingBrakes, Beanworks Coffee Roaster andFarmhouseBiscuits.
•FOOD &BEVERAGE. Thefoodservice suppliers suchasThe Full Range, behind thebest-performinggardencentrecafes andfarmshops includingcommercial kitchen,cateringand cafe equipment plus beverage suppliers.
•HOME &GARDEN IMPROVEMENT. Createdtoaccommodatethe growing crossoverbetween gardenand home DIYproducts all year round, expect to findwholesale,hardwareand home improvement suppliers alongside wholesalersofgardentools.Exhibitors to look outfor includeCuprinol, MWF, and Tilswall
Autumn Fair hasafull programme at the Counter Talks Stage whileCentreStage is theplace to go at Glee. Highlights include presentations from David Robinson, Dobbies CEO, Sam DicksonfromSquiresand revelationsfromHillierGardenCentres on cutting costsand carbon.
“We’ve been comingtoGlee foralmost 40 yearsand enjoyseeing newproducts andmeeting with our main suppliers.We’ve also sourced somedifferent productswhichwillreally standout in store.”
Ferndale Garden Centre.
There’s also Glee’s Feed Your BusinessStage focussingonhow to makefoodpay.Expecttohear howcoffee can drive footfall, loyaltyand spend, and howtobuild amenu that earns its keep Glee’smuch anticipated NewProduct Showcaseoffers ideas forwhattostock in 2027 andsee what’s dictating future growth. At Autumn Fair,Product Pavilions shine a spotlightingonthe newest launches,emerging talent,and retail-ready innovations
Forfreeregistration to Glee 2026 and Autumn Fair www.gleebirmingham.com/visitorregistration
AndyBunker–Atrue gentlemanand legendinour trade
After ashort battle with pancreatic cancer,AndyBunker
sadlydiedon13th July 2026 aged 63.
Anindustrylegend himself, especially when it came to plants. Andy wasalwayshappytogivea viewand sharehis opinions and knowledge, he willbemissed by his family,colleagues andcustomers alike.
Derek Bunker told GTN: “I worked with Andybymyside at Alton Garden Centre for 48 years. He leftschool at 15 andstarted working in ourwarehouse, then set up the garden machinerydepartment andasa family member became plants manager From knowing nothing aboutplants he grew intothe role and as well as becominga plants buyerfor the Tillington Group andlatterly British Garden Centreshealsobecamea renowned judge for RHS PlantTrials,GIMA Awardsand Glee NewProductAwards.”
IanHodgson, Editor at Large: Garden News magazinewrites: “The sad news of Andy’s passing has come as acomplete shock and Isend my sincere condolences to his family.Iwill really misshis wiseand often wry, good-humoured council at Glee andatotherevents wherewehad occasion to meet. Alifetime of experience in the garden centretrade, and his passionfor plants enabledhim to instinctively know just what the customer wanted. Youcan’t teach that. Ahuge losstothe industry.”
Scott McCabe,Buying Director at British Garden Centres paid this tribute: “I had the privilegeofknowingAndyfor around 38 years, having first workedwith him when I wasjust 13 yearsold. Morerecently, Andy became partofmybuying team hereat British Garden Centres, and it wasapleasure to work alongside him onceagain. He was such alovely person, always generous with his knowledge, advice,and time, and his passion for plants wassecond to none.”
Charity supporter
Andy wasa greatsupporter ofthe Greenfingers Charity throwing himself fully
intioFUNdraising events andorganising plantsand products to be linked to the charityto raisemoney
Boyd Douglas-Davies, Chairmanofthe Greenfingers Charity, said:“Andy was agreat personalfriendfor manyyears, andsomeone whomeanta great deal to allofusatGreenfingers.Hewas kind, generousand always willing to support us in whatever wayhecould
“Andyhad awonderful ability to connectpeople and makethemfeel partof something special. Through Garden Re-Leaf
Day,the 24 hour plant-athon, his supportof ourevents andthe manyintroductions he made on ourbehalf,Andy helped strengthen the community around Greenfingersina waythatwill have alasting impact.
“Heunderstood that our gardens are about so much more than plants and design. They providemoments of comfort andconnection forchildrenand families when they need them most.Andybelieved wholeheartedlyinhelpinguscreatethose moments, we will always be grateful forthe memories andthe legacy he leaves behind.
Wider appreciation
The Garden IndustryManufacturers Association (GIMA) joined the wider horticultural community in mourning the lossofAndy Bunker,rememberinga trusted colleague,generous mentor and friend whose influenceand kindnessleft a lastingmark on the industryheworked in fornearly 50 years.
Andy’s contribution to the wider industrywas equallysignificant. Over many years he became afamiliar andvalued presence acrossthe horticultural sector; lending his expertise to RHSPlant Trials, offering thoughtfuland fair judgement as partofthe GIMA Awards and Glee judging panels, supporting the Greenfingers Charity,speaking at industry events, contributingregularly to garden trade media, and competing enthusiastically in the golf daysthatbrought so many colleagues together
GIMA Vice-President, Nigel Thompson of Sipcam commented: “My main recent dealingswith Andy were as anew products
judge at Glee Hewas agreat judge and quitedauntingtoface, if I’mhonest!I remember catchinghis face once afterI answered aquestion anditwas great –abit of a‘Mona Lisa’moment in that Icouldn’t work out if he wasagreeing or disagreeing with my response.Hewillbemissedbyour tradeand I’msurehis legacy willliveon. Thinking of hisfamily andclosefriends at this time.”
It wasatGlee whereAndyspent much time with theGTN team during Glee NewProduct Awards judging over many years. Matthew Mein,Event Director of Glee writes:“Thereisnoquestionthat the news ofAndy's passing hasbeen felt right across theGleefamily. He has been partofthe fabric of Glee formany years. Whilemostpeople knewhim as a respected retailer,toushewas so much more.Hewas an ambassadorfor theshow, atrusted sounding boardand someone whoseinsightand experience helped shape Gleeovermanydecades.Hewas always generous with histime, hisknowledge and
his honestopinions, and we were all better for it.
“Whether he wasjudging theNew Product Awards,contributing to our Steering Group, walking theaisles in search of thelatestinnovations or simply sharing adrink withusafter abusyday at the NEC or an industryawardsevent, Andy was always apleasuretobearound. He wasa consummategentleman,hugely respected, quietly influential andsomeone who genuinely cared about both Glee and the wider garden industry.
“Andywillbegreatlymissedbyeveryone connected with Glee, andhis passing leaves areal void across ourindustry. Our thoughtsare with hisfamily, friends andcolleagues. Hislegacy,however,will live on throughthe countlesspeople he supported,the businesses he championed andthe lasting contribution he made to Glee andthe gardenretail sector as a whole.”
In alasting tributetoAndythe Glee and GTNteams have agreed that theBest of British AwardatGleewillnow be knownas “The Andy Bunker Award” for theBest of British NewProduct at Glee. What better waytohonour sucha true gentleman and friend!
Four beautifulscents &flowervarieties to choose from, each includes peat-free coir &sachetofseeds. Enjoy relaxing scents of the candle whilst in flame, when the candle hasfaded away sow your own floral plant pot.
Garden centres canget geared up to help theNationalGarden Schemecelebrate its centenary througha collaborationofbespoke products and point of sale.
The National Garden Scheme (NGS) is working closely with leading suppliers acrossthe garden centresector to createthe exclusiveNational Garden Scheme CentenaryCollection raising moneyand awarenessfor the charity.Many products and supplier tie-ups have already been announced to enable retailers to get prepared forspring 2027,and moreare in the pipeline.
“Our centenaryisacelebration of the extraordinarygenerosity of garden owners and visitors overthe last 100 years. We’re delighted to be working with so many respected suppliers to createproductsthat garden centres can champion, helping us raise even morefor the charities we support,” says RichardClaxton, NGSChiefExecutive.
Promotional products
Plants and bulbs through to garden decoration, will be brandedwith therecognisableNGS yellowand black garden gatelogo to help them stand out on theshop floor.Artist Matthew Ricehas been commissionedtocapturethe essence of the NGS in an illustration which will graceacollection of homewaresfromElite Tins and a1,000 piecejigsaw from Gibsons Levington is producing aspecial-edition NGS bag for its peat-free with John Innes growing media and will offer itsparticipating customers bespokebunting to brighten up sales areas and help garden centres with their promotions.
MatthewRice’sillustrationwillappearonproductstopromote the NGS centenary.
Planterias will also be brightened up with point of sale from Ball Colegravefor trolliesof Impatiens Beacon National GardenCollection Centenary Mixed.
Garden Centres canregister with the NGS to
becomeconnected with the Scheme’scounty wide volunteer networkand findgardens open near them. Buyers canalsoget in touchwith relevant suppliers to ensurestock for the coming seasons
Limitededition of handcrafted garden stakes, beedrinkersand shepherd’scrooks from LV Bespoke.
Exclusive collection from TaylorsBulbs forspring 2027
Gardener Ducklings from DCUK in special centenary designs.
Rosa Glorious Dayfrom Whartons Garden Roses
HeliopsisSunopsis Sunspot is from Allensmore Nurseries andhas masses of blooms from Julyto September.
Also available:
•Seedball Tubes -Seedball.
Primeur’s Queen’s Landingwashable, recycled rubber doormat captures to essence of gardens.
Trollieswith Beacon Impatiens from Ball Colegrave come with their ownpoint of sale.
•The CentenaryCollection including gloves and kneeler -Burgon &Ball.
• NarcissusWordsworth GoldenTaylorsBulbs.
• HeleniumSahins Early FlowererBransfordWebbs.
•Apple Legacy –Frank PMatthews
•Tins, teacaddy,tray and teatowel –EliteTins
•1000-piecejigsaw–Gibsons
• Multipurpose compostwith John InnesLevington
TheNGS began in May1927when600 gardeners opened their gatescharging ashilling ahead. They raised£8,191 to supportdistrict nursing via TheQueen’sNursing Institute.
By2025, thishad grownto3,500 gardens raising £3.9 million fornursing andhealth beneficiaries plus supportfor Perennial, theNational BotanicGarden of Wales, the ProfessionalGardeners’ Trust, the Garden Museum, and English Heritage’sHistoric and Botanic Garden Training Programme.
Bright,cheerful cards forany occasion, including Christmas from Woodmansterne.
Grants to supportregeneration, social cohesion andthe health and wellbeing of communities through gardening arealso awarded
The National Garden Scheme East Wing HatchlandsPark East Clandon Guildford, Surrey GU4 7RT
Email: hello@ngs.org.uk
Phone: 01483 211535 www.ngs.org.uk
ClematisQueen’s Nurse from Raymond Evison Clematis waslaunched at the RHSChelsea Flower Show.
TBy populardemand,
Thesearchisonfor
The Greatest Garden Centre Restaurant &FoodHall Teams
GTN’sGreatest Awards to recognise theexcellenceof garden centreRestaurant &FoodHall teams areback,and will be celebrated at Glee in September
he past fewmonths of heatwave after heatwave havebeen challengingtimes forgardencentrerestaurantand food hallteams buttheyhavestill been immensely important in driving footfall,sales and repeat garden centrevisits.
To celebrateall that is greatabout garden centrerestaurants and food halls we are bringing back GTN’sGreatest Awards forgarden
centre catering andfoodretailing. GTN’s Greatest Restaurant& Food Hall GardenCentre Team Awards willbeannounced andpresented onthe Feed Your Businessstage at Glee in September
TheGreatest Garden Centre Restaurant Team
From nowtothe endofAugustyou cangive
your teams aboost by getting your customers to vote forthemasone of TheGreatest Garden CentreRestaurantTeams in then UK
Voting is on-line, as we do forour Greatest Christmas Awards,linkedtoaQRcodeand by voting forms youcan print out andplaceon tables in your café/restaurant.
Thewinnerswill be the teamswith themostvotes,with separateawards for different sizes of centreand regional awards too.
The
Greatest Tantalising Garden CentreMenu Award
What an accoladetowin!Especially this summer,garden centres with themost tantalisingmenuswill have been pulling in extra customers and delivering atruly memorable experiencefor customers.
To win this award, simply send aphoto or pdf of your tantalisingsummermenu to trevor@pottingshedpress.co.uk you could also send ashortvideo clip explaining the menu.The winners,willbechosenby our team of expertjudges.
The Greatest Garden Centre Food Hall Team Award
Newfor this year is an awardfor garden centrefoodhallteams.Voted forpurely by customers from nowtothe endofAugust. What agreat waytofind out justwhatitis your customerslikebestabout your food hall
Voting is on-line, as we do forour GreatestChristmasAwards, linked to aQR code andbyvoting forms youcan print out andplaceontables in your café/restaurant. Visit www.gardentradenews.co.uk for the entryforms andon-line voting links The winners will be theteams with themostvotes, withseparateawards fordifferentsizes of centreand regional awards too.
To enterGTN’s GreatestRestaurant& Food Hall Team Awards 2026,justsendane-mailto trevor@pottingshedpress.co.uk statingwhich awards youwouldliketoenter andwewill send youfull entrydetails, along with linksfor the on-line voting,posterand voting form artworks. Or download all of theinformationfromthe GTN Xtra newsletter: www.gardentradenews.co.uk
Why Europeanmanufacturing stillmatters for outdoorliving.
Intoday’s garden retail market,price matters. Customers arecarefulwiththeir spending,retailers areprotecting margins, and everyproduct range needs to earn its placeonthe shop floor.Affordable, fastmoving products will always haveanimportant role —but garden centres also need ranges that offer something morethan apurelypriceled choice.
This is whereJagram offers adifferent proposition.
At atime when much of the garden timber categoryisshaped by long-distance imports and standardised ranges, Jagram remains aEuropean manufacturer,producing itsown timber garden structures using local wood and local production. For retailers, this means products with aclear
origin,controlled manufacturing and a stronger storytopresent to customers
Retail opportunities
Jagram’s collection includes pergolas,arches, gazebos, screens,planters and decorative timber features designed to bring structure, height and characterintothe garden. These areproducts that work well in lifestyledisplays, help createinspiring outdoor living areas and supportlinked sales with climbingplants, furniture, lighting,fixingsand accessories
ForBritishhomeowners,particularly thosewith rural, semi-rural or established gardens, timber structuresneed to look natural, feelappropriate and offer visible value. Many customers arestill valueconscious, but theyare preparedto
invest when aproductfeels well made, suits their garden and offers areasonto chooseitovera standardalternative Forgarden centres, thatisthe opportunity.Jagramgives retailers aEuropean-made timber rangewith character,quality and commercialdisplay appeal— helping themstand apartwithout dismissing the importanceofprice.
Meet Jagram at Gleeonstand 18C71 to discover garden timber products designed forretailerslooking for value,origin and apoint of difference.
With its welcomed airconditioning,Hall5 at SOLEX 2026,was definitely theplace to be during anotherrecord-breaking summer heatwave.This year’s exhibition ranlike clockwork, bringing togethersuppliers and exhibitors to find the latest trends andinspiration.
Alwyn Williams,LOFAChairman, summed up the showas‘fantastic’ and adds thelevel of detail reached by exhibitors to inspire retailers wasexceptional.
“SOLEX 2026 has been afantastic show. The retailers [who visited]havebeenqualityretailersand thenumbers of people visiting versus the time they spentinthe showhas been betterthan ever.We're all about engagingthe retailers, gettingthemexcited about whatwehaveand what we canoffer in order forthem to takethatbackintotheir shop floor.At the end of the day,the producthas got to sell, and we need theretailers to sell those products forus.
"For me at SOLEX it’s aboutthe fun, the camaraderie betweennot justthe retailersand the suppliers, but betweenmembers too. Ialwayssay it takesthree different elements.You'vegot the supplier,the customer andthe employee.And it takes allthree to makethings work.”
Awards galore
Awards were presented to sevencompanies during the special World Cupthemedevent on thefirst evening of theshowand proudly displayedontheir stands for thefollowing two days.Recognising innovation andcleverdesign theawardsare aseal of approval from industry judges anda promptfor visitors to findwhat’supand coming
Best Eco-friendly Product.
TheLoveBench from Tripod Home
Myles Podmore, Director of TripodHome wasdelighted to winthe awardfor Best Eco-friendly product forthe heart-shaped Love Bench made from theroots of Javan teak trees.Myles explainsthatteak productionisheavily controlled by the government andonceatreehas been felled,the root systemcan be extracted
Myles Podmoresaysinterestinthe Love Bench hasbeenstrongand he is hopingtointroduce a smaller version.
under permit andsold to localfurniture makers.
Making theperfect statementinany gardencentreornursery, the Love Bench is hard wearing andsuppliedonapallet as asingle piece. It perfectlycomplements TripodHome’srange of animal sculptures alsomadefromteak roots.
Awardwinners assembleatthe SOLEXWorld Cup themedawardsevening hostedbyPaul Sinah.
Where Innovation Takesa Seat
The Bramblecrest Bench redefines outdoorseating with an industry-first configurable design. Featuring innovativeintegral backreststhat canbeadded, repositioned or stored neatlywithin the bench, it transforms from occasional seatinginto acomfortable place to relaxinseconds. Thoughtfully designedto offergreater flexibilitywithout compromising on style, it bringsanew levelofversatilitytooutdoor living.
This design has already beenrecognisedwiththe Best NewProductaward at SOLEX 2026. Building on itssuccess, The Bramblecrest Benchisnow also available in the newwoven Tarlton range, bringing the same award-winning adaptable seating concept to atimeless collection
To learn more aboutThe BramblecrestBench anddiscoverwhat's newfor 2027, contactthe Bramblecrestteam today.
TARLTON
PRAGUE
AWARD-WINNINGINNOVATION, REFINED NEW COLLECTIONS ANDFRESH FINISHES FOR2027.
Our 2027 collection introduces aselectionof thoughtfully designed additions,alongside fresh updates to established favourites.
Monacocombines elegant curves,rounded aluminium frames and contemporaryrope detailing, while the newRHS Harlow range brings timeless wovenstyling inspired by RHSGarden HarlowCarr.Zurichalso returns in an all-newCocoa finish, offering awarmer, contemporarytakeonanestablished favourite.
This is justa glimpse of what's to come for2027, with every collection designed to combine enduring style, exceptionalcomfort and the dependable qualityyou can expectfromBramblecrest.
To learn moreabout what'snew for2027, contact the Bramblecrestteam today
01285 760974 sales@bramblecrest.com
MONACO
ZURICH IN COCOA
RHS HARLOW IN SAGE
Best Individual Product.
The100cm Corten Cylinder Planter from Rago Planters.
Ragu’sJason Frostreportedstrong interest in the100cm Corten CylinderPlanterat SOLEX. It is thebiggestsizeinthe range, which is made up of afurther sevensizes, all of which can be orderedassingle pots. Lookingremarkablylikethe real thing, Jasonsays thebenefits of hisStonelitepots include beingofalighterweight, better value andtheydon’t leave astain on patios andpaving
The CARRI Chef 5Pro FFDfrom Dometic Mobile CookingCoUK.
Specifically designedfor mobile cooking, the CARRI Chef50Pro FFD is aversatile 47cm bbq fitted with aFlame Failure Device.This ensures the gas supplyis automatically shut off should theflamebe extinguished unexpectedly,makingitsafe to use outdoors and inside motor homes andtents.
Featuring apowerful doublering burner forslowcooking or higher heat forsteaks and vegetables, it has the optionofbeing a tabletopbbq or free standing on itsheight adjustable legs.For hassle-free carrying,the bbq packs down intoa small, easy to carry storage bag.
SarahWoodand JasonFrost from Ragu with theirgiant,winning Corten Cylinder Planter
Best BBQ Product.
Philip Wood, Head of SalesUKwith the awardfor theBest BBQ Product.
Best FurnitureProduct.
ThePragueBench from Bramblecrest.
Seenasa protype at SOLEX last year, Bramblecrestnow has its flexible BramblecrestBench available as part of thePrague furniturecollection.Two removeable back supportswhich can be stowed under theseat pad, makeit easy to convertfromachair to abench allowingfor more comfortwheneating and entertaining
Designed by andexclusive to Bramblecrest, twobenches areincluded in thePrague setwith an RRPof£2499 in either Latteand Anthracite. Aslightlywider version alsofeatures in Tarlton –a weave collection in GraphiteorWalnut.
TimPennell, Head of Sales at Bramblecrest, with theflexible bench/chair in thePraguecollection
Above:The team at Kettler gathered to showoff their awardfor theBestLarge Stand. Ahugeteam effort, thestand and collections were beautifully dressed and arranged to allowfor easy navigation.
Left:Andy Nugent from Kadai with theaward for theBestSmall Stand which features anew initiativefor autumn/winter 2027.Offering thebestproductsfor the season on awalldisplayand 1sqmfootprint,itenables garden centrestocontinue to offeraKadai rangeeven with pressure on space due to Christmas.
Above:Colourful cushions, and an inviting bright orange hammock displayedonanopen, welcomingstand, securedthe awardfor Best Medium Stand forExtreme Lounging. Seen hereare Connor Vallo,AreaManagerofExtremeLounging and Jono Clark,Head of Salesfor JTS Cushions.
Dedication to trees
At Frank PMatthews in Worcestershire, Alan Down,discovers acompany whereplantsand peoplework in perfect harmony.
125 years shaped by the seasons, family and apassion forgrowing: these arethe first wordsyou’ll read in the FrankPMatthew’s (FPM) celebratorytreecatalogue, anditpretty well sums up the UK’s premier tree grower forthe garden sector.Look deeperand you’ll soon see that FPMisthe main player in the amenity, orchardand environmentalsector
On the first day of July,and in glorious sunshine, the team and familywelcomed around 70 gueststocelebratethisgreat landmarkatthe nursery in TenburyWells Guests were treated to tours of boththe extensivefield production andthe immaculate container production areas. “It wasfantastic to welcome so many visitors from across the industryand to sharewhatmakes our nurseryspecial. As we reflectonour history, we areequally excited about thefuture, withnew varieties, continued innovationand a commitment to helping gardeners,growers and landscape professionals grow better trees,”says Nick Dunn.
Talks from Nickfocused on howbestto display treesfor maximumretaileffectand for their upkeepinthe retail environment. Nick also gave tips on howtochoosetrees forthe garden setting.
Fieldsare plantedwithmanynew andexciting varietiesthatare constantly under assessment, andFPM is well known forbringing great new varietiestothe market.Ornamentalcherry Prunus ‘SumauraFugenzo’ which wonthe coveted bestinshowaward at the2025HTA National Plant Show,isaprime example. In Juneofthisyear,and at thesameshow, its latest introductionapple‘Legacy’won
Gold andthe best newtreetobe introduced.Thisdesertapple variety promises to have agreat futurewith gardeners sinceitwill hangonthe tree untilJanuaryand thereforenot requirespecial storageconditions.
Partnering withthe National Garden Schemewhich next year celebrates its centennial,thisoutstandingly flavoured andeasytogrowvariety will suretobeagoodseller
Aclose runner up in theHTA NationalPlantShownew plantawards wasanother of FPM’sintroductions Prunus ‘Winter’sKiss’ promises to givemorebloomsthanthe traditional winter flowering Prunus subhirtella ‘Autumnalis’and with striking pink bloomstoo!
An impressive sight
FPM growstrees on morethan 500acres and field growncrops have afive-year rotation enablingthe land to recoverbetween crops. Rootstocks arefield grownonsitesoquality and health canbemonitored and maintained.Around 60,000 rootstocks aregrown in ridged beds and harvested with atractor drawncircular saw
Generations of the Dunn family celebrate 125 years of tree growing at Frank P Matthews Nick Dunn (far right) is seen here with daughter Steph Dunn James, her husband Charles and their children Evie and Henry
Visitorsweregiven an expert demonstration of chip budding in thefield anda very high ‘take’ is achieved. With summer buddingoffieldgrown stock in full swing, we viewedthe crop budded the previous year and witnessed the remarkable vigour of somevarieties.
Thereare 700-800varieties of apples and ornamental malus in production alone, butaglanceatthe catalogue shows just howcomprehensivethe range of trees in production is.
Environmental considerations
With an eyetosustainability and the environment the team and 80 staff are constantly looking for better ways to grow and to lessen the impact.
FPM has beengrowing peat free forthe last 15 years and the uniformityand quality of the containergrown treesisremarkable. Growing media is supplied by Melcourt but pot topping to conserve moisture and prevent weed growth is from Klassman.
Around 270million litresofwater is stored in large lagoons, much of it captured from the roofs of largepolytunnels. Liquid feed is added to the irrigation water, sometimes calledfertigation, to boostthe base fertiliser in the peat free compost andclose monitoring of pot moisture content, pH and CF is practiced. In addition to liquid feed,bio-stimulants and natural predators can also be introduced through the irrigationsystem.
On athree-year productioncycle, approximately 220,000 treesare pot grown ayear.However,atrend towardsstronger spring sales anda weakeningofdemand for autumn planting is leading to spaceissues. Unsold and undelivered treescan occupy growing beds when that spaceisneeded
forthe next winter potted crop.Another challenge faced by theteam lookingafter container growntrees is winterflooding from theRiver Teme. This flows througha largepartofthe nurseryand hassofar not causedserious damage.
With focus turningtothe resincoated slow-release fertiliserbeingplasticbased, thesearchisonfor acoating that will producea12-to-14-month feed profile since currently thealternativecoatings arefor shorterrelease periods
Propagation
With extensive plantationsof12,500 ‘mother’trees, buddingand grafting materialisharvested when required Critical monitoringofthese trees forpests anddiseasesensures only thehealthiest materialisusedfor propagation, andFPM
is proudtohaveagain been awarded Plant Healthystatus
An impressive number of trees are bench grafted. Around140,000 in winter andafurther 12,000 in summer. Trees graftedthisway do notlendthemselves to successfulfield propagation. However, with some varieties halfofthe year’s needs arechipbudded in thefield and the others bench graftedunder glass. Forinstance, 50% of theapples arebench grafted with theremainderbeing grafted [budded] in thefield.
Grafting is arepetitiveprocess and to reduce fatigue an air pruning machineis beingtrialled to makethe actual cut to scion andtothe rootstock.Family fruit trees -several varieties on onetreeand ideal forsmall gardens -are bench grafted as aredwarf cherries andother stone fruits
To addtothe year’s celebrations,Frank PMatthewshas also been granted aRoyal WarrantbyHis Majesty King Charles III.It hasbeen supplyingthe Royal Household with trees forthe past eightyears, but the honour reflects decades of dedicationto growingexceptionalornamental and fruit trees,underpinned by deep horticultural expertise andastrongcommitment to sustainability
“Receiving theRoyal Warrant is agreat privilege,” says Nick Dunn. “Our motivation hasalways been to grow qualitytrees and providea high levelofcustomer service, andthisaward will encourage us to further maintain andimprove on theseverysame endeavours forthe future.”
Visitors had theopportunitytotry theirhand at bench grafting.For whip andtonguegraftsanemphasisonskilful knife work is criticaltosuccess. Happily, with the expert tutelage of Propagation Manager MattOrd,nofirst aidtreatment wasrequired!
Partofthe container growntreearea.
Restaurants-a strategic asset
JohnStanley,Sid Raisch andJansen Dreis on the evolution and impact of garden centre restaurants.
Garden centres havealways been seasonal businesses, with clear peak periods in spring and Christmas. Over time, theyhaveevolved from purely product-driven retail environments intodestinations where experienceplays acentral role. One of the most influential developments in this transformation is the introduction of restaurants and cafés.
The origin of garden centrerestaurants can be traced back to the UK,whereunpredictable weather encouraged the creation of warm, inviting indoor spaces. Inspired by traditions such as high tea, these environments became social meeting places wherevisitors could relax and spend time all year round.About 30 years ago,architect Fred de Rijckeintroduced this concept to The Netherlands by designing the first garden cafés. What startedasa supporting function has grownintoapillarof modern garden centredesign.
Today,the role of the restaurant has fundamentally changed. It is no longer just aplacetohaveaquick bite;itisanessential partof theoverall customer experience. Ambience is central, with astrong focus on greenery, natural materials, comfort, and atmospherewhile food qualityhas significantly improved. Whereofferingswere oncesimple and functional, theyare now fresh, honest,and often positioned at amuch higher culinarylevel. This shift also reflects changing consumer expectations, where visitors arelooking to shop,relax,meet others and be inspired.
Additional benefits
Awell-designed and managed restaurant has aclear impact on businessperformance. It
increases dwelltime, encourages repeatvisits, and strengthens customer loyalty.Visitors who stay longer aremorelikelytospend more, bothinthe restaurantand theretail area. Additionally, astrong food concept enhances overall brand perception and level of service.
Aclear examplecan be seen at Intratuin Maastrichtwhich hastaken aslightlydifferent approach by focusing on service and hospitality.After optimising its garden café, including expanding the number of seats from 160 to 284,the restaurantachieveda 35% increase in revenue. Moreimportantly,the number of visitors using the café increased significantly,and customers stayed longer While the direct effect on retailspendingis difficulttomeasureprecisely, it is highlylikely the extended staycontributes positivelyto overall turnover and customer satisfaction
Another important development is the integration of family-oriented experiences.
By adding play areas for children of different ages, garden centres can attractawider audience andcreateamorecompleteday-out experience.
Themenu challenge
Getting the menu right for your target customer is achallenge. Garden centresare perceived as places of nature, sustainability andwellbeingwhich should be reflected in the menu.Inthe past,ultra-processedfoods appeared but,inthe future, visitorswill expect ahealthy offering.This shift can be seen in Sweden, where Castle Garden Centre and Åkersberga Plant Saleshavesuccessfully made the move to awell-beingfood offer
Arefoodtrucks your answer?
Setting up arestaurant may notbethe answer for your business. Many of our clients have set up food trucks operated in busy periodsonly andmovedaround thegarden centre as and when required.
The conclusion is clear: agarden centre restaurantisnolonger an additionalfeature, but astrategic asset. When executed well, it drives revenue growth, increases customer loyalty andelevatesthe overall shopping experience. However, it must be done properly. Apoorlymanaged or lowquality restaurant cannegatively affectthe perception of theentirestore
IntratuinMaastrichthas increasedits restaurant from 160to284 covers and is focusing on service and hospitality
A
The niva collection has been created in response to growing consumerdemandfor affordable, design-led planting products.Combining contemporary style, durability and value,nivagives retailers an opportunity to refresh theirbasics category witharange designed todeliverstrongsell-through and broad customer appeal.
Available in 11 sizes with coordinatingsaucers, niva features acontemporary faceted design in anthracite andmushroombeige.Compatible displays and merchandising solutionshelp retailers create impactful in-store displays, encouragingmulti-buy purchases, increasing basket spend and maximisingsales per squaremetre.
Madefrom100%recycled plastic,nivaislightweight, UV-stable, frost-resistantand fullyrecyclable,offering consumers adurable, sustainable alternative to traditionalterracotta potsand planters
Visitors to Glee can explore the latest innovationsand speakwithelho representatives aboutstocking the range.
Green innovation
Shining aspotlight on new introductions to boost planteria sales.
Infairyquick succession, garden centres enjoyseveral headlinegrabbing plant shows, each offering up thelatest andfuturetrends, and awards fornew introductions. In some cases,it’snot initiallyobvious to see what aparticular newintroduction brings to themix, but this year,winning plants from the HTANational Plant Show and BBC Gardeners’World Livepresented clear innovation showing that breeders arefilling defined gaps in the market
Benefitingthe whole industry,such innovation presents great opportunities for retailers to keep their planteria vibrant and continue to bring gardeners something new.
Newsales opportunities
Taking Best in Show andVisitor Vote at June’sHTA National PlantShowisa perennial
spin on amuch-lovedannual Antirrhinum
‘Shiryu Kiss’has been in themaking fora more than adecadeand is theresult of crosses by PeterMoore,who hasbrought gardeners many newintroductions including thepopular Choisya dewittenana White Dazzler
With goodpowdery mildew andrust resistance, this perennial is aprolificand regularbloomer,has purple tips to new growth andgives garden centres thechance to promoteitasapatio plantorwithinthe herbaceoussection.Availability is currently limitedtoWaitroseand T&M, but next year when more widely grown, gardencentres can tell customersthat‘shiryu’ means ‘dragon’ in Japanese, and100%ofthe royalties go to the charity Perennial
Theversatility of Chamaecyparis thyoides EL PASO™fromJavadoalsobrings new
sales opportunities. Because this tiny conifer growsincrediblyslowlyitsitshappily in any rockeryoralpinedisplay but can alsobe promoted as abonsaifor indoor or outside growing. Extremely lowmaintenance it will alsoappeal to newgardeners, those with smallgardeners or balconies andanyone lookingfor all-year-round colour
Winnersinthe HTA NewPlantAwards
Best in Show and winnerofthe Herbaceous Perennialscategory: Antirrhinum ‘ShiryuKiss’,fromKernock Park Plants
Annuals, Tender Perennials and container &basketplants: Digitalishybrida ArcticFox LemonCream,fromBall Colegrave
Searching out novelties at the HTA NationalPlant Show.
ArtDecobredbyKordes
from
and
Flowering Houseplants: Euphorbia Tiara Alexandra, from Javado UK.
Foliage Houseplants:Ananas Babyboom, fromJavado UK
Cacti&Succulents:Wildkalanchoe ‘Octopus’, from Javado UK.
Steph DunnJames and Kate Pearce from Frank PMatthews, sayfruitsfromapple Legacy can be eatenstraight offthe tree and stored formanymonths.Sales benefitthe National Garden Scheme
Trees: Malus domestica Apple Legacy,from FrankP Matthews.
Shrubs (including Conifers) & Climbers: Chamaecyparis thyoides EL PASO™fromJavadoUK.
Above:Peter Moore, whobredAntirrhinum ‘ShiryuKiss’ celebrates it being judgedBestin Show
Left:MichelHeemskerk with tinyconifer EL PASO from Javado
BBCGardeners’ WorldLive
TheHot of thePotting Bench featureatBBC Gardeners’ World Live, brings together an eclectic mixofnew introductions, with judgesworking their waythrough 78 entriesentries. Theoverall prize, ThePeter Seabrook Awardfor Best NewPlant, went to Antirrhinum ‘ShiryuKiss’ from KernockPark Plants, another accolade forthis innovativenew perennial.
Other categorywinners
•Ornamental shrubsand trees: HydrangeaGroundbreaker® Ruby from Suttons
•Edibles: Pear,Nuvar™ Misty Rose™ by Frank P. Matthews
•Tender,conservatoryand houseplants:Streptocarpus
‘Holly’ by Dibleys Houseplants
•Annuals and bedding plants: PelargoniumCalliope Landscape ‘Rock ‘n Rose’bySyngenta.
Whartons Garden Roses is one of on-trend newtwo tone cultivars. It is alsothe 2027 Rose of the Year
SOLEX 2026 – a show to remember!
Gina Hinde, LOFA General Manager
Asthe doors closed on SOLEX 2026, Icouldn’thelp but smile Looking back over the three days, I can honestly say it wasmy favourite SOLEX to date.
From themoment the doors opened, there was a real sense of optimism throughout the halls Every LOFA member had clearly pulledout all the stops, and the standardofthe exhibition wasexceptional. Thestands looked incredible, showcasing not only the professionalism of our members but also thepassion, creativity and innovation that continue to drive the outdoor living industry forward
SOLEX has always been more than just atrade exhibition; it’swhereour industry comes together to shareideas, strengthen relationships and showcase thevery best our sector has to offer.This year,that spirit wasevident everywhereyou looked.
What struck me most was the freshness of the product ranges There was a clear move towards calming, natural colour palettes, with soft greens, warm beiges and rich auburn tones creatingbeautifully inviting outdoor spaces. Plushcushions, modular seating,woventextures and contemporaryoutdoor kitchens sat comfortably alongside statement planters, elegant outdoor structures, innovative lighting, spas, barbecues, smokers and outdoor heating.Together, they reflecteda growing trend towards stylish, comfortable outdoor living,whereminimalist design delivered maximum impact.
Of course,beautiful products areonly part of the SOLEX story For me, the real success of the exhibition is measured by the conversationstaking place on everystand. Throughout thethree days therewas a constant buzzasretailers, buyers and suppliers caught up, discussed theseason ahead,explored newproduct launches and strengthened relationships that will continue
long after the exhibitionhas closed. SOLEX hasalwaysbeen about bringing together theright people, and once again it delivered exactly that
Positive feedback
The atmosphere and quality of the event were reflected in the feedback we received from exhibitors after the show. It was incredibly rewarding to hearsomany positive commentsabout thequalityof thebuyers, the conversationstakingplace on standsand theoverall success of the exhibition
“I genuinely believe that it was our best SOLEX yet and I heard nothing but positive feedback from buyers. the qualityofbuyers this year wastop notch too.”
Another exhibitor summed it up perfectly:
“You guys deserve medals forthe work you do. It’snot that longago that everyone (including me) was down on the show, and you have transformed it into being the ‘must do’ trade fair for companies such as mine Thank you, well done andsee younextyear!”
Feedbacklikethismeans agreat deal to everyone involved in organising SOLEX. Itreinforcesour belief that the exhibition succeeds becauseitbrings together the right people, creating meaningful conversations, valuable business opportunities and an event that the industry genuinely looks forwardtoeach year
The greatest measureofsuccess isn’t something youcan always captureinvisitor statistics. It’s the confidenceexhibitors have in theevent. Withmorethanhalf of our exhibitors already committed to SOLEX 2027, it’s cleartheyrecognisethe value the exhibition delivers andare investing in its future. Forus, that’s one of the strongest endorsements we could ask for
The exhibition doesn’tend when the halls closefor the day
either.Our annualevening event onceagain provedtobea highlight of the week.Paul Sinha had everyone laughing fromstart to finish, while outside, the barbecue area offered acompletely different atmosphere. Withchilledmusic, great foodand relaxed surroundings, it became the perfect place to unwind, catch up with industry friends and continue conversationsina moreinformal setting.Itwas areminder thatSOLEX is about peopleasmuch as products. Many of the relationships thatshape our industryare built over moments like these.
As organisers, we are immensely proud of what SOLEX has become It remains an exhibition created by the industry, for the industry, andevery year our members continue to raise the bar The passion, commitment and professionalism shown by everyexhibitor thisyearwereacredit to our sector,and together they created an event that truly reflected the strength of the outdoor living industry
Anniversary celebrationsonthe horizon
As Ileftthe NEC, my thoughts were already turning to SOLEX 2027.Nextyear will be an especially significant oneasLOFAcelebrates its 60th anniversary Reaching our Diamond Jubilee is aremarkable milestoneand an opportunity to reflect on six decades of representing,supportingand championing the outdoor leisureindustry.
Therecould be no better placeto celebratethisspecial anniversarythan at SOLEX –our flagshipexhibition and undoubtedly the jewel in LOFA’s crown We arealready looking forwardtowelcoming exhibitors andvisitorsbacktothe NECfor what promises to be atruly memorable celebration.
To everyexhibitor,visitor,sponsor and member of the LOFA team whocontributed to SOLEX 2026,thank you. Your enthusiasm, professionalismand commitmentare what makethisexhibitionsospecial, and Ican’t wait to do it all again next year
Resilience during water restrictions
Will Armitage, HTAPresident
Water restrictions havecrept back inagainthisyear.Whatever you believe is thecause, thereisno questionour climateischanging
Back in the early 1990s, Iwas lucky enough to be in further education; part of the course coveredecology,which was quitenew at the time. Soonafter,the United Nations ConferenceonEnvironment and Development washeld. Known as the 1992 UN EarthSummit in Rio de Janeiro, it was the first gathering of over 170 worldleaders to discuss pressingenvironmental issues. That summitestablished the framework and foundations forall subsequent agreements and continues to shape global environmental policy today
In 1992, three major conventions were created:the UN Framework Convention on ClimateChange, the Conventionon Biological Diversity and the UN Convention to Combat Desertification. It wasthe first time the phrase ‘climatechange’ hit the headlines and became partofthe world’s lexicon.
As students covering thedetailsofthese conventions, it wasclear we all needed to ‘think global but act local’ and recognise and use our spheres of influenceto communicateinitiatives to impact the three conventions. What better industry could we
possibly be involved in to havesuchalarge sphere?Our customers aresuchwilling participants in that sphere, making apositive impact on their local area, and en massecan makeaglobal impact.
Our industry
Whenwater restrictions areimposedon us,as asector,wewillingly do ourbit, even though gardencentres and ornamental plant growers usearound 19.4 million cubic metresofwater per year,equivalent to just 0.15% of the UK’s total wateruse.Ido wondersometimesifthe actions being taken by the waterauthorities arejust for show, an attempt at being seentodo something,knowing that gardeners area willing, environmentally awaresection of the population who will do as we aretold.
TheHTA is currently lobbying on behalf of ourmembers.Weare activeonthe National Drought Groupand arecalling on water companies to usethe correctterminology whendiscussing waterrestrictions, to take proper action, unlockfunding for reservoirs (especially for ourgrowermembers), and stop pointing the finger at hosepipes/ customers as adistraction from the real problem.
Along with HTAlobbying,thereare some things which youcan do locally to help
Firstly,please refertoany impositions madeonusbythe waterauthorities as ‘water restrictions’and use your sphereof influencetomakesurethose around youdo the same.
We need to shift the language away from ‘hosepipe bans’, which can discourage people from visiting garden centres and purchasing plants,creating uncertaintyfor both gardenretailers and their customers. We also need to do what we can to promote rainwater harvesting
Secondly,call outmyths -with anyone and everyone. YouCAN waternew planting,you CAN still usea hosepipe to fill or maintain a pond to savewildlife,you can also invest in awater butt to collectrainwater.And help your customers choose resilient plantsby dedicating benches in plant areas to plants suitable for dryconditions.
These toptipswill help your customers and should provide ahealthy bottomline.
Find out more
TheHorticultural Trades Association is the UK industry’s leading membership organisation and welcomes all sectorsofenvironmental horticulture.
To learn more,pleasevisit www.hta.org.uk or to enquire aboutmembershipplease email: membership@hta.org.uk
Our dog Nigelinthe rainwaterdip tank filled viathe downpipe from the greenhouse guttering and emptied by asuccession of dogsusing it to cool down in summer. In thewinter, the cat uses it as abig icelolly!
