GTN July-August 2026 - Garden Trade News UK

JULY/AUGUST 2026

gardentradenews.co.uk

Advice & information for garden centre professionals

GTN’S GREATEST RESTAURANT & FOOD HALL AWARDS. ENTER NOW!

One Team, One Dream

Greenfingers Kilimanjaro Challenge raises £293k

ANDY BUNKER (1963–2026) Industry loses valued ambassador

NGS CENTENARY

bespoke products & point of sale

FLORAL DRAGONS

135 snapdragons at Floral Fantasia

%$#+*"-$$ ,/.!$ )&'(

Help your customers get ahead this autumn.

Autumn is one of the busiest times in the gardening calendar. From planting trees and shrubs to improving tired borders and protecting roots through winter, Melcourt’s premium peat-free range helps retailers meet every autumn gardening need.

As seen on

Autumn starts with Melcourt Plant Protect Prepare

ORNAMENTAL BARK MULCH™ A long-lasting, decorative-quality bark mulch for beds, borders and tubs.

SPRUCE ORNAMENTAL™ A versatile conifer bark mulch, ideal for suppressing weeds and conserving soil moisture on borders and landscaped areas.

COMPOSTED FINE BARK™ Our rich, bark-based soil conditioner improves heavy soil textures by adding organic matter, and lighter soils by supporting moisture-holding capacity.

FARMYARD SOIL IMPROVER A rich source of organic matter that adds nutrients and improves soil fertility, structure and water-holding capacity.

ROSE, TREE & SHRUB PLANTING COMPOST A rich, friable planting compost for the successful establishment and growth of trees and shrubs in garden soils.

To see our full range of products visit www.melcourt.co.uk

Call or email now to place your order

01666 502711

mail@melcourt.co.uk

®The Royal Horticultural Society. Trade marks of The Royal Horticultural Society (Registered Charity No 222879/SC038262) used under licence from RHS Enterprises Limited. © Melcourt Industries Ltd, Boldridge Brake, Long Newnton, Tetbury, Gloucestershire GL8 8RT

Comment JULY/AUGUST 2026

gardentradenews.co.uk

Rain dances required

Advice & information for garden centre professionals

I

t was great to see so many GTN readers over the three days of SOLEX at the NEC. Well done to the exhibitors and LOFA for putting on an excellent show. By all accounts it was successful in terms of orders placed, new accounts signed up and appointments for further visits.

After SOLEX it’s full steam ahead on Glee preparation for the GTN team. We’ve just published the Glee Pre-Show Guide and the first issue of Glee Daily News. Then after this issue has gone to press our next task is the bumper GTN Glee Preview issue. We are also starting to see Glee New Product Awards entries coming in where there will be plenty of innovation this year.

Sad news reached us just after SOLEX that Andy Bunker has died following a short battle with pancreatic cancer. Andy was always so helpful to GTN providing regular insight and comment, he will be sadly missed not least at Glee where he has been a judge for the New Product Awards for many years. Our thoughts are with his family and all his colleagues.

On a happier note, we were privileged to honour the efforts of the 23 climbers who took on the Kilimanjaro challenge for Greenfingers at the Greenfingers Summer Ball. The total raised from their efforts now stands at £257,752.86 + £35,585.41 in Gift Aid. That means the children’s garden at Naomi & Jacks Hospice in Winchester will go ahead funded just by the challenge fundraising. A staggering achievement. You can read more about

In this issue...

4 8 10 12 15 18 20

22 23 28 30 32 34 35

Kilimanjaro – in the climbers words A new chapter for garden retail at APAC Dragons at Floral Fantasia Two shows, one visit – Glee & Autumn Fair Andy Bunker tribute National Garden Scheme sales opportunities GTN’s Greatest Restaurant & Food Hall Garden Centre Team Awards Garden timber with provenance from Jagram GTN’s SOLEX review Dedication to trees at Frank P Matthews Restaurants – a strategic asset Green innovations – GTN Planteria SOLEX 2026 a show to remember – LOFA viewpoint Water resilience – HTA viewpoint

www.gardentradenews.co.uk

GTN’S GREATEST RESTAURANT & FOOD HALL AWARDS. ENTER NOW!

One Team, One Dream

Greenfingers Kilimanjaro Challenge raises £293k

Pre-Show Guide

ANDY BUNKER (1963–2026) Industry loses valued ambassador

NGS CENTENARY

bespoke products & point of sale

FLORAL DRAGONS

135 snapdragons at Floral Fantasia

EDITORIAL & ADVERTISING Lets get growing together in 2027 Come and talk to us at Hall 18 Stand A10-C11 Miracle-Gro® is a trademark of OMS Investments, Inc. and is used under license from OMS Investments, Inc.

the personal experiences of the challenge in this issue.

Lastly a comment on the weather. Back in April we were longing for a warm spell so that people could get out and spend time in their garden. No one would have predicted the run of heatwaves and lack of rainfall we’ve had that means gardens are OK for BBQ’s and sunbathing but not great for plants and planting. Now we all need to be doing rain dances twice a day to get trade going again and heavily promote autumn planting.

Heads down now... Glee opens on 8th September!

Trevor Pfeiffer

Garden Trade News Potting Shed Press Ltd Dairy Drove Thorney Peterborough PE6 0TX Tel 01733 775700 www.gardentradenews.co.uk THE GTN TEAM Editor Trevor Pfeiffer trevor@pottingshedpress.co.uk Features Editor Anisa Gress anisa@pottinghsedpress.co.uk Advertising Sales Alan Burdon Alan@pottingshedpress.co.uk Digital Editor Neil Pope neil@pottingshedpress.co.uk Subscriptions Karen Pfeiffer karen@pottingshedpress.co.uk Design & Production AT Graphics Ltd www.atgraphicsuk.com Lucy Carnell – Design Alun Jones – Production Manager Robert Tipping – Managing Director James Tipping – Technical Director Printing CG Print Ltd Do you qualify for a copy of GTN?

If you’d like to be added to the GTN distribution list, please send your details to Karen@pottingshedpress.co.uk to see if you qualify to be included.

Alternatively, if you prefer your Garden Trade News digitally, sign up for GTN Xtra, our weekly e-mail newsletter at www.gardentradenews.co.uk

Advertisers in this issue 2 Melcourt 7 Soilworx 15 UK Greetings 18 Bees Seeds 20 Durstons 21 Handy 24 Bramblecrest 31 elho 31 PATS 2026 36 SOLEX 2027

Potting Shed Press Ltd Garden Trade News is published by Potting Shed Press Ltd who also publish: GTN Bestsellers, GTN Xtra, Glee Daily News and the Glee Catalogue, and the Solex Sun. Potting Shed Press also supply Garden Radio to over 100 garden centres across the country.

Director Trevor Pfeiffer

SMALL PRINT: All material © Potting Shed Press Ltd 2026. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form whatsoever, either for sale or not, without the express permission of the publishers. The information supplied in this publication is published in good faith and every effort has been made to ensure its accuracy. Potting Shed Press Ltd cannot accept responsibility for any error or misrepresentation. All liability for loss, disappointment, negligence or other damage caused by reliance on information contained in this publication or in the event of any bankruptcy or liquidation or cassation of the trade of any company, individual or firm mentioned, is hereby excluded.

July/Augustt 2026 3

Greenfingers Kilimanjaro Challenge

One Team.

One Dream.

One Challenge.

The Greenfingers Kilimanjaro team raised a staggering £294,000 last month to create a magical garden at Naomi & Jacks Children’s Hospice in Winchester. All they had to do was trek to the Top of Africa, the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro at 5,895 metres. We are in awe of everything they achieved, it was a truly amazing achievement which we were honoured to be able to report on in GTN Xtra. Here we give our normal GTN interview space to members of the team to talk about the challenge in their words…

Kate Ebbens, Greenfingers ambassador and brainchild of the Kilimanjaro Challenge.

“My Kilimanjaro experience was one of the most rewarding and emotional journeys of my life.

Alongside my partner, Matt, and an incredible team of 23 people, I took on the challenge of climbing the highest mountain in Africa to raise money for Greenfingers Charity. The trek tested us all with freezing temperatures, high altitude and physical exhaustion, but the friendships,

4 July/August 2026

teamwork and unwavering support we shared made every step worthwhile. Our mantra throughout the journey was "One Team. One Dream. One Challenge." It perfectly captured the spirit of the expedition as we encouraged one another, celebrated every milestone and ultimately reached the summit together.

“For me, Kilimanjaro was never just about climbing a mountain. It was about bringing people together to make a real difference for children with life-limiting illnesses and their

families. Together, we have raised over £255,000 for Greenfingers Charity, helping to create beautiful hospice gardens where precious memories can be made. I couldn't be prouder of what we achieved as a team, and I'm especially grateful to Matt, who was by my side throughout every challenge and every unforgettable moment. Kilimanjaro reinforced my belief that when people unite behind a shared purpose— One Team. One Dream. One Challenge.— extraordinary things really are possible”

www.gardentradenews.co.uk

Greenfingers Kilimanjaro Challenge

Matt Rowlandson, Kate's partner “When Kate suggested climbing Kilimanjaro, I clearly didn’t ask enough questions! I thought it was going to be a bit of walking up a big hill — how wrong could I be? The views were incredible, especially walking above the clouds, but the freezing temperatures, altitude, aching legs and lack of oxygen certainly tested us!

Thankfully, the amazing team spirit, plenty of laughter and “One Team. One Dream. One Challenge.” kept us moving.

“We were incredibly lucky to have Charity Challenge supporting us throughout. The guides, porters and team were absolutely fantastic — keeping us fed, hydrated, motivated and moving when some of us were questioning whether our legs still worked! Without their incredible support, I honestly don’t think we would have reached the summit. I’m hugely proud of what we achieved and that, together, we raised over £255,000 for Greenfingers Charity. An unforgettable experience — and yes, I’m still blaming Kate for the whole thing!”

Alexa Blackmore, The Gardens Group “Kilimanjaro was the best and most challenging experience of my life, simply no other way to say it. Tanzania is beautiful, and hiking uphill for 6 days through damp, humid jungle, with monkeys, giant heather that reaches over your head, and long lichen hanging in the haze. The alpine desert, the Arctic desert, and the sandy dust that blows. Seriously, there is more dust on Kilimanjaro than in my house, and that’s difficult to achieve. Every time we crossed into a new climate zone, it felt as if a line had been drawn, and the plant life changed immediately. It was perhaps the most unusual natural landscape scenario I can imagine. Although I don’t need to, as I saw it with my own eyes, which in itself is hard to believe.

“The long hikes through tough terrain did not surprise me; I was surprised that I managed each day with no aches or pains. The realisation that my training had paid off- I had trained for

www.gardentradenews.co.uk

eighteen months for this. I signed up in January 2025; I read and reread the advice. I took it seriously, and oh boy, was I grateful that I had.

I went through the pain while training, and not at altitude, where recovery is hard. I was able to rest because I had trained with an altitudetraining mask at home for several months, so my sleep wasn’t too disrupted. Unbelievably, I slept well, just ask my long-suffering tent mate Tammy.

“One teammate was suffering from extreme altitude sickness and needed to get to the next camp for air rescue. How he continued up the Branco wall, I have no idea, but his grit, determination and sheer will got him there.

A very brave and determined man. I hold an enormous respect for him.

“We all relied upon our determination at different points, digging deep, drawing strength from where we could.

“My battle was on summit night, I had been incredibly lucky not to have suffered from any particular altitude symptoms, just a bit queasy, a mild headache early on, I had not had a stomach upset (I have never used so much hand sanitizer in my life) the battle came from sheer altitude and the climb in the dark, I had built this night up to be hard, to be so cold, and in fact I ended up over heating, I had to stop to take layers off to be able to continue, the next part was the sheer lack of oxygen, suffering from the worst headrush of my life, feeling so dizzy I almost fell. After that, I walked slowly, “pole pole” with my summit porter, Solomon. Each of us walked with a porter that night; they kept a close eye on us, and we all agreed we could not have done it without them.

“Summiting at Stella Point at 6am as the sun spread wide over the horizon, I cannot describe the feeling of the sun appearing; I think it was hope, relief and belief that I might actually do this. The night had seemed to be endless; I have never been so happy to see a sunrise before. Words cannot describe it. Things got so much easier after that moment, although the realisation of how far we still have to walk to

reach the Uhuru point, the actual summit, was becoming apparent.

“I summited at Uhuru Point with most of our team, a final push across the spikey ice to a wonderful, clear blue sky and warmth.

“The turnaround was swift, only a few minutes at the summit before the new task of the descent, back down to base camp on the same track, passing fellow climbers on their way summiting; the sun was shining, the smiles abundant and the word Jambo Jambo, congratulations (Hello Hello Congratulations), frequent as I passed the guides and porters still heading up, “We went down swiftly, skidding and slipping, walking poles outstretched in front, exhilarated, and the feeling of joy, having to remind myself to be careful; each step lower became easier to breathe, a feeling of lightness and ease. Altitude is a powerful beast.

“Huge tears of joy and achievement. Knowing that that night will not only impact me, but also that the money raised will help families battling in ways far deeper and harder than I have ever known, including on summit night.

“Thank you, Kilimanjaro; you are a magnificent mountain.

“Most importantly, thank you to my colleagues and sponsors for their support; without them, I could not have raised the incredible amount donated. Thank you all for every contribution. 100% of the money we collectively raised will create a lifeenhancing garden for families at Naomi and Jack's children's and young adults' hospice in Winchester, benefiting families for decades to come.”

July/August 2026 5

Greenfingers Kilimanjaro Challenge Greenfingers

Libby Stubbs, Events Manager at British Garden Centres

Tam Woodhouse, Greenfingers Trustee “I was really nervous before the challenge. Lots of doubts and worries. Had I done enough training? How would the altitude affect me?

Would my knees be ok. Had I packed the right gear, had I got enough snacks! Ben [my husband] kept reminding me that it was also meant to be fun and an adventure so I tried to convince myself that my nerves were really just excitement. Once we got to the airport it was great to meet the rest of the team and realise they were all feeling the same. Then it was brilliant to start walking and from that moment on it was just about putting one foot in front of the other and enjoying the amazing experience.

“My best moment was the sun starting to rise and seeing the top of the mountain not that far above us. There was a huge sense of elation watching the sun come up from Stella point.

“The worst moment was the hour before the sun came up. Trudging very slowly with no idea what the time was, how far there was to go and my back ribs aching with the effort of breathing.

“The team were a huge motivation. We really did support each other all the way up. When anyone was feeling down or finding it hard the others picked us up. We laughed, talked, sang and danced our way through the whole challenge.

“Even though it was hard, once we started the final ascent there was no doubt in my mind that I was going to make it to the top. I remember thinking in a weeks’ time this will all be behind you and none of the discomfort will matter anymore and that was so true. Even as we reached the top the challenge of the climb started to diminish. I swore never again and now we’re all talking about what our next challenge should be!

“I feel a massive sense of achievement. It’s given me confidence in myself and in what your

6 July/August 2026

body and mind can do. Definitely one of the best experiences of my life and I’m proud of what we achieved as a team. Not only conquering the mountain but the amazing amount of money that we have raised for Greenfingers.

Danny & Jodie Rowlinson, Team Max Foundation “Climbing Kilimanjaro has always been on my husband Danny's and my wish list after we visited beautiful Tanzania for our Honeymoon.

For well over a year we trained and fundraised and when the departure day finally arrived we both felt excited but nervous too.

“On the trek I suffered a bit with altitude sickness but the camaraderie of the team really helped me to keep going. There were times I feared I wouldn’t be able to make summit as I felt so bad.

Before we left the UK a family who had sadly lost their son to a brain tumour had given me a poem they had written, which I kept in my pocket all the way to the top. Support from them and the picture of what could be achieved at Naomi and Jack’s children hospice was what spurred me to keep putting one foot in front of the other.

“Our son Max was treated for cancer when he was younger and we know the benefits of stepping outside and taking a moment. We both wanted to be able to give that gift for other families.

“The plans for the garden at Naomi and Jack’s are absolutely stunning and we can’t wait to see them put into action. The sense of achievement we feel for standing on the roof of Africa will be nothing to what we feel when we stand in the completed garden which will serve families for years to come.”

Phillippa Stubbs, British Garden Centres “This mountain threw everything at us from altitude, exhaustion, freezing temperatures in the middle of the night. But none of that compares o what the families at Naomi House face every to siingle day. If we can give them somewhere beautiful to breathe, somewhere peaceful to just be together, then every blister was worth it. This was a challenge to celebrate my 50th birthday and standing on that summit as the sun came up, I wouldn't have changed it for the world. Now we juust need to finish what we started and get this garden built and change lives for the children and their families in the hospice.”

“For me, and I'm sure many of my other family, this very quickly became much more than climbing a mountain. We all knew it was going to bring our own personal challenges, but in turn created such a strong fundraising foundation.

Looking back at this adventure now when we made the seven hour summit trek in the dark, I can truly remember it to be the most amazing and joyous challenge.

“I'd heard so many stories of how it changed people's lives, and I didn't really know how that was possible. That was until I sat in the doctor's prior to having my injections so that I could come on the trip. So scared that I even made the nurse cry. Uh. But in that moment, mum looked at me and said, we're fundraising for all these children. They are strong so you can be strong. So I did it and that was the first change for me. I was petrified of needles, but context immediately changed my perspective.

For anyone that knows me, also knows that I massively struggle with food on so many levels, and don't get me wrong, I was very impressed with the food. Our amazing support team, brought out each meal. We had pancakes!

However, with the nausea that came alongside altitude sickness, I was really struggling to eat anything. This was leading to me feeling absolutely exhausted with days still to go.

“So there had to be a change in my mindset and very quickly, on a very scenic moment, we sat on a rock one lunchtime, very elegantly, bawling my eyes out. I looked up at the mountain, looked back down, back up again, and something in my head just clicked. I knew after being very well educated by my mum, thanks mum. That there was no way I was getting to the top unless I face my fears and for many a very simple pasta dish in front of me. These all maybe sound like minor things to other people, but for me were my greatest worries ahead of the climb and ones that I couldn't really prepare for. But now I see what helped my development and discovering what I'm really capable of.

There were two key factors in this that I think are worth highlighting. I could tackle this with the thought and the bravery, the strength that the children in these hospices have alongside the support of every morning waking up to the stunning scenery of Mount Kilimanjaro. And this only strengthened my thoughts on the crude reality of the thousands of children and families that Greenfingers have provided the smile inducing, safe and relaxing outdoor spaces to in moments of difficulty. I can only speak for myself, but I'm sure if you get the opportunity, get the opportunity to speak to one of the challenge superstars.

“They can tell you so many more stories,

www.gardentradenews.co.uk

Interview

whether that be about freezing night temperatures, steep volcanic terrain with sheer drops beside us, more of what troubles altitude sickness brought us, or the reality of wild, very wild camping. All these demanded extraordinary determination, grit and resilience. But we had a purpose for this challenge, which meant the moments our bodies wanted to stop and our minds questioned the possibility of getting to the top. We did it together with encouragement and a lot of karaoke.

“Thank you for the friendship, the memories and unforgettable experience. And through all of this non-stop smiles. So when an opportunity like this arises for you in the future. I have two bits of advice. Do it and do it smiling. I won't kid you. It probably won't be easy. And there's definitely going to be moments where you question why you ever said yes. But the sense of achievement, knowing that you are so much more capable than what you believed, the fundraising and the support that then provides to incredible charities like Greenfingers, allowing them to continue igniting happiness and letting families flourish through their time in the hospices will stay with you long after you return home. Thank you.

The final words go to Greenfingers Director of Fundraising & Communications, Linda Petrons.

"On behalf of everyone at Greenfingers Charity, I would like to begin by saying a huge thank you to our team of trekkers. Your determination, resilience and commitment to take on this challenge was nothing short of inspiring.

“I would also like to thank the 2,129 individuals and businesses who supported the team every step of the way. Whether you sponsored an individual, backed the whole team, or supported the challenge as one of our valued corporate partners, your generosity has been truly overwhelming.

“Together, you have helped raise an outstanding amount that will enable us to create a beautiful new garden at Naomi and Jack’s, where children with life-limiting conditions, young adults and their families can spend precious time together away from the clinical environment, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

“This is far more than a fundraising achievement; it is a lasting legacy that will bring a huge amount of comfort to families for many years to come. What an extraordinary legacy from a challenge that will touch so many lives."

Contact us for samples & 1st order pricing

grow your organic fertiliser sales with the UK & Ireland’s fastest growing organic fertiliser producer.

Professional results. Naturally organic.

SoilWorx organic fertiliser ranges are now available to home gardeners, bringing better blooms, healthier lawns and consumers who come back for more.

• Made in the UK • 100% organic • Multiple pack sizes • Own label options • Organic trust certified

Meet the Killi Trekkers • Kate Ebbens, Woodlodge, Greenfingers Ambassador • Heidi Baylis Towse, Greenfingers Trustee and Blue Diamond • Phillippa Stubbs and Libby Stubbs of British Garden Centres • Greenfingers Ambassador, Bob Marley • Alexa Blackmore from The Gardens Group • Matt Jones of Sipcam and his partner Nicola • Matthew Rowlandson, Dobsons • Daniel and Jodie Rowlandson, Team Max Foundation • Tara Adams from Woodmansterne • Nicole and David Higginson of New Leaf Plants • Richard Howard of Doddington Nurseries along with Tia Blunt • Johan Huibers from Huibers Co. • Richard Quarmby from AKN Build • Thomas Forsyth from AKN Build • Helen Taylor from Allan Morris Estate Agents • Tammy Woodhouse, Greenfingers Trustee • Rene Assies of Assies • Jess Dollimore of Ruxley Manor

www.gardentradenews.co.uk

Worx for the planet.

Worx for your bottom line.

+44 28 9620 5588 info@soilworx.co.uk soilworx.co.uk

July/August 2026 7

Promotion

APAC opens a new chapter for garden retail With an extensive product portfolio, innovative merchandising solutions and an experienced nationwide sales team, APAC is bringing more than four decades of wholesale expertise to the garden centre market.

T

rading for more than 40 years, APAC Group has been at the heart of the UK floristry wholesale trade. The privately owned, family-run business began with florist supplies and has grown to become the UK’s largest floristry wholesaler.

Organic growth and acquisitions, including Swift Imports and Country Baskets, have expanded APAC’s product offer. Today, its scale, experience and trend-led approach help retailers create inspiring, commercially successful displays.

APAC’s growing garden centre offer is backed by a 17-strong UK sales team,

8 July/August 2026

supported by Head of Sales Hannah Shoesmith. Its portfolio spans artificial flowers and foliage, Christmas, pots, horticultural products and giftware, ranges that have been carefully curated by experienced buyers, category managers and merchandisers. APAC’s 20,000sqft Rothley showroom is now ready with its 2027 collections. Retailers can book a showroom visit through their sales representative.

New ranges, display solutions and point-of-sale materials are backed by weekly distribution, responsive service and a £400 minimum order across all categories.

www.gardentradenews.co.uk

Promotion

One supplier, multiple opportunities At Glee 2026, APAC will unveil new products and in-store solutions designed to unlock cross-merchandising opportunities, encourage linked sales and give customers reasons to return throughout the seasons.

At its heart is The Flower Shop, a scalable shop-in-shop concept developed from this year’s Flower Stand. The Flower Shop brings together APAC’s three artificial brands; Essential Silk, Real Life Silk and Botanica alongside Kiyo glassware, BloomCraft florist sundries, Hortus ceramics and Weave basket ware.

The coordinated display makes it easy for consumers to create complete arrangements while helping retailers drive linked sales. Flexible enough to suit the space available and refresh with the seasons, The Flower Shop creates an inspiring destination within the garden centre.

Made for Christmas launches in November From 9th November 2026, garden centres will be able to discover Made for Christmas, APAC’s established festive collection, as it launches to the sector. Spanning trees, lighting, decorations and props, the range has already proved successful with leading high-end retailers.

Created for retailers seeking something different, Made for Christmas combines distinctive, coordinated themes with highly competitive pricing. The collection will be presented in APAC’s Rothley, Leicester showroom and showcased at Harrogate, enabling buyers to plan a complete Christmas off er with the support of the offer same knowledgeable sales team.

Meet APAC at Glee 2026 on stand 19 G40-H41 to discover how more than four decades of experience can deliver greater impact, stronger categories and fresh commercial opportunities for garden retail.

To visit the 2027 showroom, contact your APAC sales representative to book an appointment.

APAC Group Ltd Loughborough Road, Rothley, Leicestershire, LE7 7NL

www.gardentradenews.co.uk

July/August 2026 9

Floral Fantasia

Here be dragons This summer’s trial of 135 snapdragons at Floral Fantasia, the only one of its kind in the country, is a valuable resource to help growers and retails make choices for next year.

F

rom compact dwarf forms to towering spikes for cut flowers, the antirrhinum trial at Floral Fantasia has something for everyone. It’s been two decades since antirrhinums were last trialled and within that time, there have been big leaps in breeding.

The 135 being grown this year within the Floral Fantasia demonstration garden, at RHS Garden Hyde Hall in Essex, show just how the choice of snapdragons has increased in that time, 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 Award of Garden Merit, so there’s great potential for the other 134 to end the summer with this coveted award.

This independent trial, which is open to the public, is a rarity. Most trials are curated by companies keen to show their own cultivars, but at Floral Fantasia, any breeder can take part. All plants are grown in the same way allowing for true comparison.

Sakata is particularly strong in antirrhinums especially in the UK and its UK Sales Manager Tim Johns says the trial is open and fair. “Here you can compare everything equally which is great for testing the genetics. I’d like to see this replicated up and down the country so we can get the data to compare times up and down the country.”

Michael Smith, from nearby WD Smith growers and Meadow Croft Garden Centre, says plants are assessed by the panel four times between early June and late August, enabling a fair assessment to be made as plants mature. But visitors too get their say, and vote for their favourite.

“What we are finding is that plants have flushes of flower and then are green again before the next flush, so what looked great last week, might not be as colourful the next. By assessing four times, there’s a very good chance we will see plants at all their stages,” he says. “The trial is going to show us the strength of the genetics to allow the plants to keep flowering through to the end of the season.”

Benefits to industry Seeing the trial from both a grower and a retailer viewpoint is certainly helping Michael. Impressive performance of A. ‘Sweet Duet Rose Shades’

10 July/August 2026

Trailing forms are also being grown to show how they perform in pots. However, they could be challenging to manage in a retail environment.

Michael Smith is an industry champion of Floral Fantasia.

www.gardentradenews.co.uk

Floral Fantasia

Visitors are encouraged to vote for their favourite.

Antirrhinum ‘Mango Twist’ from DT Brown is available as seed to gardeners at retail. The combination of yellow and orange was impressive and anyone would be delighted to have this in a border, but compared to others in the trial, its habit was not as robust.

www.gardentradenews.co.uk

The colour of cut flower type Antirrhinum ‘Opus Lavender’ from Syngenta stood out, with little else matching its shade.

Snapdragons in the demonstration garden with cosmos and salvia.

Michael will be looking to grow A. ‘Sweet Duet Rose Shades’, a wide branching form, in a 1-litre pot for next summer.

Putting the finishing touches to the newly designed Floral Fantasia garden.

has convinced him it needs to sell it at retail in a 1-lite or even 2-litre pot. Originally retailed as jumbo bedding, he can see its broad habit and wide flower spikes lends itself to a larger pot with better sales potential. “I’m selling the right genetics but in the wrong product. Once you see all the varieties together, you begin to understand how they can work better.” he says.

It has also given the chance to see alternative colours which he is likely to add to his range in the future.

Growers and retailers are invited to visit the trial anytime, as it is open during the same hours as the RHS Garden Hyde Hall. At the same time they can enjoy the demonstration garden where

plants are grown in ways similar to those in home gardens. Recently re-designed by James Alexander Sinclair, the Floral Fantasia garden now has wider pathways and beds with better 360deg vision make it easier to appreciate plants from all angles. Most will have a 70-30 split of shrubs to seasonal planting, plus the garden is home to many ornamental pots with examples of excellent combinations.

Floral Fantasia, a project begun by the late Peter Seabrook to benefit gardeners and the horticultural trade across the UK, is supported by Miracle Gro. Zinnia will be subject of trials for 2027.

July/August 2026 11

Glee 2026

Two shows, one visit

T

Visitors to Glee 2026 benefit from sourcing gardening and lifestyle with home and gift thanks to co-location with Autumn Fair.

his year marks an important milestone in the history of Glee (8–10 Sept) at the NEC Birmingham as it co-locates with Autumn Fair (6–9 Sept). Together they bring to UK buyers Europe's largest combined home and garden trade show in the second half of the year.

In one single trip, and at no extra cost, visitors can see keep on trend with 10,000 products from more than 460 exhibitors across 11 different sectors spanning garden, outdoor living, and lifestyle. Look out for Hill Interiors and Quirky Barn in Home, Living and Décor; Funtime Gifts and Widdop & Co in Gift and Moda Express plus Suzie Blue in Fashion.

As the show evolves and continues to cater for changing visitor expectations, three new sectors debut this year - Food Hall, Food & Beverage and Home & Garden Improvement.

Learn from the best Accessing both shows means visitors can take advantage of more expert-led seminars and take inspiration from a greater diversity of subjects from leading keynote speakers and retail gurus.

12 July/August 2026

www.gardentradenews.co.uk

Glee 2026

New sectors for Glee 2026

• FOOD HALL. Find speciality food wholesale, artisan food suppliers, gourmet food brands and food and drink wholesale. For buyers sourcing for a garden centre food hall, farm shop or deli, this is the place to find products from companies including Brakes, Beanworks Coffee Roaster and Farmhouse Biscuits.

“It’s great to see lots of new products in one place and source small companies and niche new products we wouldn’t have necessarily found if we didn’t attend.”

Blue Diamond.

“We’ve been coming to Glee for almost 40 years and enjoy seeing new products and meeting with our main suppliers. We’ve also sourced some different products which will really stand out in store.”

Ferndale Garden Centre.

• FOOD & BEVERAGE. The foodservice suppliers such as The Full Range, behind the best-performing garden centre cafes and farm shops including commercial kitchen, catering and cafe equipment plus beverage suppliers.

• HOME & GARDEN IMPROVEMENT. Created to accommodate the growing crossover between garden and home DIY products all year round, expect to find wholesale, hardware and home improvement suppliers alongside wholesalers of garden tools. Exhibitors to look out for includeCuprinol, MWF, and Tilswall.

Autumn Fair has a full programme at the Counter Talks Stage while Centre Stage is the place to go at Glee. Highlights include presentations from David Robinson, Dobbies CEO, Sam Dickson from Squires and revelations from Hillier Garden Centres on cutting costs and carbon.

There’s also Glee’s Feed Your Business Stage focussing on how to make food pay. Expect to hear how coffee can drive footfall, loyalty and spend, and how to build a menu that earns its keep.

Glee’s much anticipated New Product Showcase offers ideas for what to stock in 2027 and see what’s dictating future growth.

At Autumn Fair, Product Pavilions shine a spotlighting on the newest launches, emerging talent, and retail-ready innovations.

“We come to Glee knowing what we want and specifically to look for new suppliers.”

Twigs Nurseries.

Glee 2026

Glee (8–10 September) and Autumn Fair (6–9 September) NEC, Birmingham For free registration to Glee 2026 and Autumn Fair www.gleebirmingham.com/visitorregistration

www.gardentradenews.co.uk

July/August 2026 13

Andy Bunker (1963-2026)

Andy Bunker –

A true gentleman and legend in our trade A

After a short battle with pancreatic cancer, Andy Bunker sadly died on 13th July 2026 aged 63.

n industry legend himself, especially when it came to plants.

Andy was always happy to give a view and share his opinions and knowledge, he will be missed by his family, colleagues and customers alike.

Derek Bunker told GTN: “I worked with Andy by my side at Alton Garden Centre for 48 years. He left school at 15 and started working in our warehouse, then set up the garden machinery department and as a family member became plants manager.

From knowing nothing about plants he grew into the role and as well as becoming a plants buyer for the Tillington Group and latterly British Garden Centres he also became a renowned judge for RHS Plant Trials, GIMA Awards and Glee New Product Awards.”

Ian Hodgson, Editor at Large: Garden News magazine writes: “The sad news of Andy’s passing has come as a complete shock and I send my sincere condolences to his family. I will really miss his wise and often wry, good-humoured council at Glee and at other events where we had occasion to meet. A lifetime of experience in the garden centre trade, and his passion for plants enabled him to instinctively know just what the customer wanted. You can’t teach that. A huge loss to the industry.”

Scott McCabe, Buying Director at British Garden Centres paid this tribute: “I had the privilege of knowing Andy for around 38 years, having first worked with him when I was just 13 years old. More recently, Andy became part of my buying team here at British Garden Centres, and it was a pleasure to work alongside him once again. He was such a lovely person, always generous with his knowledge, advice, and time, and his passion for plants was second to none.”

Charity supporter Andy was a great supporter of the Greenfingers Charity throwing himself fully

www.gardentradenews.co.uk

intio FUNdraising events and organising plants and products to be linked to the charity to raise money.

Boyd Douglas-Davies, Chairman of the Greenfingers Charity, said: “Andy was a great personal friend for many years, and someone who meant a great deal to all of us at Greenfingers. He was kind, generous and always willing to support us in whatever way he could.

“Andy had a wonderful ability to connect people and make them feel part of something special. Through Garden Re-Leaf

Day, the 24 hour plant-athon, his support of our events and the many introductions he made on our behalf, Andy helped strengthen the community around Greenfingers in a way that will have a lasting impact.

“He understood that our gardens are about so much more than plants and design. They provide moments of comfort and connection for children and families when they need them most. Andy believed wholeheartedly in helping us create those moments, we will always be grateful for the memories and the legacy he leaves behind.

July/August 2026 15

Andy Bunker (1963-2026)

Wider appreciation The Garden Industry Manufacturers Association (GIMA) joined the wider horticultural community in mourning the loss of Andy Bunker, remembering a trusted colleague, generous mentor and friend whose influence and kindness left a lasting mark on the industry he worked in for nearly 50 years.

Andy’s contribution to the wider industry was equally significant. Over many years he became a familiar and valued presence across the horticultural sector; lending his expertise to RHS Plant Trials, offering thoughtful and fair judgement as part of the GIMA Awards and Glee judging panels, supporting the Greenfingers Charity, speaking at industry events, contributing regularly to garden trade media, and competing enthusiastically in the golf days that brought so many colleagues together.

GIMA Vice-President, Nigel Thompson of Sipcam commented: “My main recent dealings with Andy were as a new products

16 July/August 2026

jud dge att Glee. He was a greatt jud dge and d quite daunting to face, if I’m honest! I remember catching his face once after I answered a question and it was great – a bit of a ‘Mona Lisa’ moment in that I couldn’t work out if he was agreeing or disagreeing with my response. He will be missed by our trade and I’m sure his legacy will live on.

Thinking of his family and close friends at this time.”

It was at Glee where Andy spent much time with the GTN team during Glee New Product Awards judging over many years. Matthew Mein, Event Director of Glee writes: “There is no question that the news of Andy's passing has been felt right across the Glee family. He has been part of the fabric of Glee for many years. While most people knew him as a respected retailer, to us he was so much more. He was an ambassador for the show, a trusted sounding board and someone whose insight and experience helped shape Glee over many decades. He was always generous with his time, his knowledge and

d we were alll better his honest opiiniions, and for it.

“Whether he was judging the New Product Awards, contributing to our Steering Group, walking the aisles in search of the latest innovations or simply sharing a drink with us after a busy day at the NEC or an industry awards event, Andy was always a pleasure to be around. He was a consummate gentleman, hugely respected, quietly influential and someone who genuinely cared about both Glee and the wider garden industry.

“Andy will be greatly missed by everyone connected with Glee, and his passing leaves a real void across our industry.

Our thoughts are with his family, friends and colleagues. His legacy, however, will live on through the countless people he supported, the businesses he championed and the lasting contribution he made to Glee and the garden retail sector as a whole.”

In a lasting tribute to Andy the Glee and GTN teams have agreed that the Best of British Award at Glee will now be known as “The Andy Bunker Award” for the Best of British New Product at Glee. What better way to honour such a true gentleman and friend!

www.gardentradenews.co.uk

uzzing bout rowing Sow Nurtured Scented Candles • Nurture & Glow

Reusable ceramic pot | Scented candle | Harmonising flowers

Four beautiful scents & flower varieties to choose from, each includes peat-free coir & sachet of seeds.

Enjoy relaxing scents of the candle whilst in flame, when the candle has faded away sow your own floral plant pot.

Sow Nurtured Jigsaw • Puzzle & Grow

Premium wooden jigsaw | Flower seed mixture Enjoy creating a stunning jigsaw on rainy days, then create a wonderful wildflower display to admire all summer long.

Reusable jute giftbag containing specialist wooden butterfly jigsaw & butterfly attracting flower seed sachet.

Bees Seeds® have a wide collection of year-round gifts launching at glee

ive the gift of growing • Download our latest brochure online

01254 790 350 Sales@bees-seeds.com

Bees Seeds Limited

www.bees-seeds.com

Glee NEC: 20J48 Four Oaks: E71

NGS centenary

Sales for a century Garden centres can get geared up to help the National Garden Scheme celebrate its centenary through a collaboration of bespoke products and point of sale.

T

he National Garden Scheme (NGS) is working closely with leading suppliers across the garden centre sector to create the exclusive National Garden Scheme Centenary Collection raising money and awareness for the charity. Many products and supplier tie-ups have already been announced to enable retailers to get prepared for spring 2027, and more are in the pipeline.

“Our centenary is a celebration of the extraordinary generosity of garden owners and visitors over the last 100 years. We’re delighted to be working with so many respected suppliers to create products that garden centres can champion, helping us raise even more for the charities we support,” says Richard Claxton, NGS Chief Executive.

Promotional products Plants and bulbs through to garden decoration, will be branded with the recognisable NGS yellow and black garden gate logo to help them stand out on the shop floor. Artist Matthew Rice has been commissioned to capture the essence of the NGS in an illustration which will grace a collection of homewares from Elite Tins and a 1,000 piece jigsaw from Gibsons.

Levington is producing a special-edition NGS bag for its peat-free with John Innes growing media and will offer its participating customers bespoke bunting to brighten up sales areas and help garden centres with their promotions.

18 July/August 2026

Matthew Rice’s illustration will appear on products to promote the NGS centenary.

Planterias will also be brightened up with point of sale from Ball Colegrave for trollies of Impatiens Beacon National Garden Collection Centenary Mixed.

Garden Centres can register with the NGS to

become connected with the Scheme’s county wide volunteer network and find gardens open near them. Buyers can also get in touch with relevant suppliers to ensure stock for the coming seasons.

www.gardentradenews.co.uk

NGS centenary

Exclusive collection from Taylors Bulbs for spring 2027.

Gardener Ducklings from DCUK in special centenary designs.

Limited edition of handcrafted garden stakes, bee drinkers and shepherd’s crooks from LV Bespoke.

Clematis Queen’s Nurse from Raymond Evison Clematis was launched at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show.

Rosa Glorious Day from Whartons Garden Roses.

Heliopsis Sunopsis Sunspot is from Allensmore Nurseries and has masses of blooms from July to September.

Bright, cheerful cards for any occasion, including Christmas from Woodmansterne.

Primeur’s Queen’s Landing washable, recycled rubber doormat captures to essence of gardens.

Trollies with Beacon Impatiens from Ball Colegrave come with their own point of sale.

Also available:

• Seedball Tubes - Seedball.

• The Centenary Collection including gloves and kneeler - Burgon & Ball.

• Narcissus Wordsworth Golden Taylors Bulbs.

• Helenium Sahins Early Flowerer Bransford Webbs.

• Apple Legacy – Frank P Matthews • Tins, tea caddy, tray and tea towel – Elite Tins • 1000-piece jigsaw – Gibsons • Multipurpose compost with John Innes Levington

www.gardentradenews.co.uk

The NGS began in May 1927 when 600 gardeners opened their gates charging a shilling a head. They raised £8,191 to support district nursing via The Queen’s Nursing Institute.

By 2025, this had grown to 3,500 gardens raising £3.9 million for nursing and health beneficiaries plus support for Perennial, the National Botanic Garden of Wales, the Professional Gardeners’ Trust, the Garden Museum, and English Heritage’s Historic and Botanic Garden Training Programme.

Grants to support regeneration, social cohesion and the health and wellbeing of communities through gardening are also awarded.

The National Garden Scheme East Wing Hatchlands Park East Clandon Guildford, Surrey GU4 7RT Email: hello@ngs.org.uk Phone: 01483 211535 www.ngs.org.uk

July/August 2026 19

GT TN’s Greatest Resttaurant & Food d Hall Aw wards

The search is on for

The Greatest Garden Centre Restaurant & Food Hall Teams By popular demand, GTN’s Greatest Awards to recognise the excellence of garden centre Restaurant & Food Hall teams are back, and will be celebrated at Glee in September

T

he past few months of heatwave after heatwave have been challenging times for garden centre restaurant and food hall teams but they have still been immensely important in driving footfall, sales and repeat garden centre visits.

To celebrate all that is great about garden centre restaurants and food halls we are bringing back GTN’s Greatest Awards for garden

20 July/August 2026

centre catering and food retailing. GTN’s Greatest Restaurant & Food Hall Garden Centre Team Awards will be announced and presented on the Feed Your Business stage at Glee in September.

The Greatest Garden Centre Restaurant Team From now to the end of August you can give

your teams a boost by getting your customers to vote for them as one of The Greatest Garden Centre Restaurant Teams in then UK. Voting is on-line, as we do for our Greatest Christmas Awards, linked to a QR code and by voting forms you can print out and place on tables in your café/restaurant.

Visit www.gardentradenews.co.uk for the entry forms and on-line voting links.

www.gardentradenews.co.uk

GTN’s Greatest Restaurantt & Food Halll Awards

The winners will be the teams with the most votes, with separate awards for different sizes of centre and regional awards too.

The Greatest Tantalising Garden Centre Menu Award What an accolade to win! Especially this summer, garden centres with the most tantalising menus will have been pulling in extra customers and delivering a truly memorable experience for customers.

To win this award, simply send a photo or pdf of your tantalising summer menu to trevor@pottingshedpress.co.uk you could also send a short video clip explaining the menu. The winners, will be chosen by our team of expert judges.

The Greatest Garden Centre Food Hall Team Award New for this year is an award for garden centre food hall teams. Voted for purely by customers from now to the end of August.

What a great way to find outt just what it is your customers like best about your food hall.

Voting is on-line, as we do for our Greatest Christmas Awards, linked to a QR code and by voting forms you can print out and place on tables in your café/restaurant.

Visit www.gardentradenews.co.uk for the entry forms and on-line voting links.

The winners will be the teams with the most votes, with separate awards for different sizes of centre and regional awards too.

How to enter

To enter GTN’s Greatest Restaurant & Food Hall Team Awards 2026, just send an e-mail to trevor@pottingshedpress.co.uk stating which awards you would like to enter and we will send you full entry details, along with links for the on-line voting, poster and voting form artworks.

Or download all of the information from the GTN Xtra newsletter: www.gardentradenews.co.uk

MADE FOR

BRITISH GARDENS

Plan Early. Stock Smart.

Sell More This Autumn.

Autumn Trade Machinery Promotion NOW LIVE! Autumn demand starts before the leaves fall. Be ready with seasonal machinery deals across the products your customers will be asking for, including: √ Blowers & Vacuums √ Chainsaws & Pruning Saws √ Log Splitters & Saw horses √ Hedge Trimmers & Shredders √ Scarifiers, Sweepers & Pressure Washers √ Parts, Oils and Accessories & lots more!

With promotional supply prices across key autumn ranges, Handy is helping trade customers prepare early, build stronger seasonal displays and support customer demand before the season peaks.

BECOME A STOCKIST – APPLY FOR AN TRADE ACCOUNT Trade: www.handytrade.co.uk

www.gardentradenews.co.uk

www.handys.co.uk

VIEW THE AUTUMN PROMOTION ONLINE Visit www.handytrade.co.uk to sign up for a trade account, view the promotion and place your order.

Or speak to your Handy Area Sales Manager...

Email: sales@handys.co.uk Telephone: 01793 333220

July/August 2026 21

Promotion

Garden timber with provenance Why European manufacturing still matters for outdoor living.

I

n today’s garden retail market, price matters. Customers are careful with their spending, retailers are protecting margins, and every product range needs to earn its place on the shop floor. Affordable, fastmoving products will always have an important role — but garden centres also need ranges that offer something more than a purely priceled choice.

This is where Jagram offers a different proposition.

At a time when much of the garden timber category is shaped by long-distance imports and standardised ranges, Jagram remains a European manufacturer, producing its own timber garden structures using local wood and local production. For retailers, this means products with a clear

22 July/August 2026

origin, controlled manufacturing and a stronger story to present to customers.

Retail opportunities Jagram’s collection includes pergolas, arches, gazebos, screens, planters and decorative timber features designed to bring structure, height and character into the garden. These are products that work well in lifestyle displays, help create inspiring outdoor living areas and support linked sales with climbing plants, furniture, lighting, fixings and accessories.

For British homeowners, particularly those with rural, semi-rural or established gardens, timber structures need to look natural, feel appropriate and offer visible value. Many customers are still valueconscious, but they are prepared to

invest when a product feels well made, suits their garden and offers a reason to choose it over a standard alternative.

For garden centres, that is the opportunity. Jagram gives retailers a European-made timber range with character, quality and commercial display appeal — helping them stand apart without dismissing the importance of price.

Meet Jagram at Glee on stand 18C71 to discover garden timber products designed for retailers looking for value, origin and a point of difference.

Email: magdalenapor@jagram.com Call or message: +48 575 750 037 Visit website: jagramgroup.com View catalogues: jagram.co.uk

www.gardentradenews.co.uk

SOLEX Preview 2026

The best of outdoor living Highlights from SOLEX 2026.

Award winners assemble at the SOLEX World Cup themed awards evening hosted by Paul Sinah.

W

ith its welcomed air conditioning, Hall 5 at SOLEX 2026, was definitely the place to be during another record-breaking summer heatwave. This year’s exhibition ran like clockwork, bringing together suppliers and exhibitors to find the latest trends and inspiration.

Alwyn Williams, LOFA Chairman, summed up the show as ‘fantastic’ and adds the level of detail reached by exhibitors to inspire retailers was exceptional.

“SOLEX 2026 has been a fantastic show. The retailers [who visited] have been quality retailers and the numbers of people visiting versus the time they spent in the show has been better than ever. We're all about engaging the retailers, getting them excited about what we have and what we can offer in order for them to take that back into their shop floor. At the end of the day, the product has got to sell, and we need the retailers to sell those products for us.

"For me at SOLEX it’s about the fun, the camaraderie between not just the retailers and the suppliers, but between members too. I always say it takes three different elements. You've got the supplier, the customer and the employee. And it takes all three to make things work.”

Awards galore Awards were presented to seven companies during the special World Cup themed event on the first evening of the show and proudly displayed on their stands for the following two days. Recognising innovation and clever design the awards are a seal of approval from industry judges and a prompt for visitors to find what’s up and coming.

www.gardentradenews.co.uk

Best Eco-friendly Product.

The Love Bench from Tripod Home Myles Podmore, Director of Tripod Home was delighted to win the award for Best Eco-friendly product for the heart-shaped Love Bench made from the roots of Javan teak trees. Myles explains that teak production is heavily controlled by the government and once a tree has been felled, the root system can be extracted

Myles Podmore says interest in the Love Bench has been strong and he is hoping to introduce a smaller version.

under permit and sold to local furniture makers.

Making the perfect statement in any garden centre or nursery, the Love Bench is hard wearing and supplied on a pallet as a single piece. It perfectly complements Tripod Home’s range of animal sculptures also made from teak roots.

July/August 2026 23

PRAGUE

2026 BEST NEW PRODUCT WINNER

Where Innovation Takes a Seat The Bramblecrest Bench redefines outdoor seating with an industry-first configurable design. Featuring innovative integral backrests that can be added, repositioned or stored neatly within the bench, it transforms from occasional seating into a comfortable place to relax in seconds. Thoughtfully designed to offer greater flexibility without compromising on style, it brings a new level of versatility to outdoor living.

This design has already been recognised with the Best New Product award at SOLEX 2026. Building on its success, The Bramblecrest Bench is now also available in the new woven Tarlton range, bringing the same award-winning adaptable seating concept to a timeless collection.

To learn more about The Bramblecrest Bench and discover what's new for 2027, contact the Bramblecrest team today.

01285 760974

sales@bramblecrest .com

TARLTON

MONACO

AWARD-WINNING INNOVATION, REFINED NEW COLLECTIONS AND FRESH FINISHES FOR 2027.

RHS HARLOW IN SAGE

New for 2027 Our 2027 collection introduces a selection of thoughtfully designed additions, alongside fresh updates to established favourites.

Monaco combines elegant curves, rounded aluminium frames and contemporary rope detailing, while the new RHS Harlow range brings timeless woven styling inspired by RHS Garden Harlow Carr. Zurich also returns in an all-new Cocoa finish, offering a warmer, contemporary take on an established favourite.

ZURICH IN COCOA

This is just a glimpse of what's to come for 2027, with every collection designed to combine enduring style, exceptional comfort and the dependable quality you can expect from Bramblecrest.

To learn more about what's new for 2027, contact the Bramblecrest team today.

01285 760974

sales@bramblecrest .com

® The Royal Horticultural Society. Trade marks of The Royal Horticultural Society (Registered Charity No 222879/SC038262) used under licence from RHS Enterprises Ltd.

SOLEX Preview 2026 Best Individual Product.

The 100cm Corten Cylinder Planter from Rago Planters.

Ragu’s Jason Frost reported strong interest in the 100cm Corten Cylinder Planter at SOLEX. It is the biggest size in the range, which is made up of a further seven sizes, all of which can be ordered as single pots.

Looking remarkably like the real thing, Jason says the benefits of his Stonelite pots include being of a lighter weight, better value and they don’t leave a stain on patios and paving.

Sarah Wood and Jason Frost from Ragu with their giant, winning Corten Cylinder Planter.

Best BBQ Product.

The CARRI Chef 5 Pro FFD from Dometic Mobile Cooking Co UK. Specifically designed for mobile cooking, the CARRI Chef 50 Pro FFD is a versatile 47cm bbq fitted with a Flame Failure Device. This ensures the gas supply is automatically shut off should the flame be extinguished unexpectedly, making it safe to use outdoors and inside motor homes and tents.

Featuring a powerful double ring burner for slow cooking or higher heat for steaks and vegetables, it has the option of being a tabletop bbq or free standing on its height adjustable legs. For hassle-free carrying, the bbq packs down into a small, easy to carry storage bag.

Philip Wood, Head of Sales UK with the award for the Best BBQ Product.

26 July/August 2026

www.gardentradenews.co.uk

SOLEX Preview 2026 Best Furniture Product.

The Prague Bench from Bramblecrest.

Seen as a protype at SOLEX last year, Bramblecrest now has its flexible Bramblecrest Bench available as part of the Prague furniture collection. Two removeable back supports which can be stowed under the seat pad, make it easy to convert from a chair to a bench allowing for more comfort when eating and entertaining.

Designed by and exclusive to Bramblecrest, two benches are included in the Prague set with an RRP of £2499 in either Latte and Anthracite. A slightly wider version also features in Tarlton – a weave collection in Graphite or Walnut.

Tim Pennell, Head of Sales at Bramblecrest, with the flexible bench/chair in the Prague collection.

" Above: The team at Kettler gathered to show off their award for the Best Large Stand. A huge team effort, the stand and collections were beautifully dressed and arranged to allow for easy navigation.

" Above: Colourful cushions, and an inviting bright orange hammock displayed on an open, welcoming stand, secured the award for Best Medium Stand for Extreme Lounging.

Seen here are Connor Vallo, Area Manager of Extreme Lounging and Jono Clark, Head of Sales for JTS Cushions.

www.gardentradenews.co.uk

! Left: Andy Nugent from Kadai with the award for the Best Small Stand which features a new initiative for autumn/winter 2027. Offering the best products for the season on a wall display and 1sqm footprint, it enables garden centres to continue to offer a Kadai range even with pressure on space due to Christmas.

July/August 2026 27

Nursery visit

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.

Dedication to trees 1

At Frank P Matthews in Worcestershire, Alan Down, discovers a company where plants and people work in perfect harmony.

25 years shaped by the seasons, family and a passion for growing: these are the first words you’ll read in the Frank P Matthew’s (FPM) celebratory tree catalogue, and it pretty well sums up the UK’s premier tree grower for the garden sector. Look deeper and you’ll soon see that FPM is the main player in the amenity, orchard and environmental sector.

On the first day of July, and in glorious sunshine, the team and family welcomed around 70 guests to celebrate this great landmark at the nursery in Tenbury Wells.

Guests were treated to tours of both the extensive field production and the immaculate container production areas. “It was fantastic to welcome so many visitors from across the industry and to share what makes our nursery special. As we reflect on our history, we are equally excited about the future, with new varieties, continued innovation and a commitment to helping gardeners, growers and landscape professionals grow better trees,” says Nick Dunn.

Talks from Nick focused on how best to display trees for maximum retail effect and for their upkeep in the retail environment. Nick also gave tips on how to choose trees for the garden setting.

28 July/August 2026

Gold and the best new tree to be introduced. This desert apple variety promises to have a great future with gardeners since it will hang on the tree until January and therefore not require special storage conditions.

Partnering with the National Garden Scheme which next year celebrates its centennial, this outstandingly flavoured and easy to grow variety will sure to be a good seller.

A close runner up in the HTA National Plant Show new plant awards was another of FPM’s introductions.

Prunus ‘Winter’s Kiss’ promises to give more blooms than the traditional winter flowering Prunus subhirtella ‘Autumnalis’ and with striking pink blooms too!

Fields are planted with many new and exciting varieties that are constantly under assessment, and FPM is well known for bringing great new varieties to the market. Ornamental cherry Prunus ‘Sumaura Fugenzo’ which won the coveted best in show award at the 2025 HTA National Plant Show, is a prime example.

In June of this year, and at the same show, its latest introduction apple ‘Legacy’ won

An impressive sight FPM grows trees on more than 500 acres and field grown crops have a five-year rotation enabling the land to recover between crops.

Rootstocks are field grown on site so quality and health can be monitored and maintained. Around 60,000 rootstocks are grown in ridged beds and harvested with a tractor drawn circular saw.

www.gardentradenews.co.uk

Nursery visit

Visitors were given an expert demonstration of chip budding in the field and a very high ‘take’ is achieved. With summer budding of field grown stock in full swing, we viewed the crop budded the previous year and witnessed the remarkable vigour of some varieties.

There are 700-800 varieties of apples and ornamental malus in production alone, but a glance at the catalogue shows just how comprehensive the range of trees in production is.

Environmental considerations With an eye to sustainability and the environment the team and 80 staff are constantly looking for better ways to grow and to lessen the impact.

FPM has been growing peat free for the last 15 years and the uniformity and quality of the container grown trees is remarkable.

Growing media is supplied by Melcourt but pot topping to conserve moisture and prevent weed growth is from Klassman.

Around 270 million litres of water is stored in large lagoons, much of it captured from the roofs of large poly tunnels. Liquid feed is added to the irrigation water, sometimes called fertigation, to boost the base fertiliser in the peat free compost and close 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 irrigation system.

On a three-year production cycle, approximately 220,000 trees are pot grown a year. However, a trend towards stronger spring sales and a weakening of demand for autumn planting is leading to space issues.

Unsold and undelivered trees can occupy growing beds when that space is needed

Visitors had the opportunity to try their hand at bench grafting. For whip and tongue grafts an emphasis on skilful knife work is critical to success. Happily, with the expert tutelage of Propagation Manager Matt Ord, no first aid treatment was required!

for the next winter potted crop. Another challenge faced by the team looking after container grown trees is winter flooding from the River Teme. This flows through a large part of the nursery and has so far not caused serious damage.

With focus turning to the resin coated slow-release fertiliser being plastic based, the search is on for a coating that will produce a 12-to-14-month feed profile since currently the alternative coatings are for shorter release periods.

Propagation With extensive plantations of 12,500 ‘mother’ trees, budding and grafting material is harvested when required.

Critical monitoring of these trees for pests and diseases ensures only the healthiest material is used for propagation, and FPM

is proud to have again been awarded Plant Healthy status.

An impressive number of trees are bench grafted. Around 140,000 in winter and a further 12,000 in summer. Trees grafted this way do not lend themselves to successful field propagation. However, with some varieties half of the year’s needs are chip budded in the field and the others bench grafted under glass. For instance, 50% of the apples are bench grafted with the remainder being grafted [budded] in the field.

Grafting is a repetitive process and to reduce fatigue an air pruning machine is being trialled to make the actual cut to scion and to the rootstock. Family fruit trees - several varieties on one tree and ideal for small gardens - are bench grafted as are dwarf cherries and other stone fruits.

To add to the year’s celebrations, Frank P Matthews has also been granted a Royal Warrant by His Majesty King Charles III. It has been supplying the Royal Household with trees for the past eight years, but the honour reflects decades of dedication to growing exceptional ornamental and fruit trees, underpinned by deep horticultural expertise and a strong commitment to sustainability.

“Receiving the Royal Warrant is a great privilege,” says Nick Dunn. “Our motivation has always been to grow quality trees and provide a high level of customer service, and this award will encourage us to further maintain and improve on these very same endeavours for the future.”

Part of the container grown tree area.

www.gardentradenews.co.uk

July/August 2026 29

Adapt or Die

Restaurants - a strategic asset John Stanley, Sid Raisch and Jansen Dreis on the evolution and impact of garden centre restaurants.

G

arden centres have always been seasonal businesses, with clear peak periods in spring and Christmas. Over time, they have evolved from purely product-driven retail environments into destinations where experience plays a central role. One of the most influential developments in this transformation is the introduction of restaurants and cafés.

The origin of garden centre restaurants can be traced back to the UK, where unpredictable weather encouraged the creation of warm, inviting indoor spaces. Inspired by traditions such as high tea, these environments became social meeting places where visitors could relax and spend time all year round. About 30 years ago, architect Fred de Rijcke introduced this concept to The Netherlands by designing the first garden cafés. What started as a supporting function has grown into a pillar of modern garden centre design.

Today, the role of the restaurant has fundamentally changed. It is no longer just a place to have a quick bite; it is an essential part of the overall customer experience.

Ambience is central, with a strong focus on greenery, natural materials, comfort, and atmosphere while food quality has significantly improved. Where offerings were once simple and functional, they are now fresh, honest, and often positioned at a much higher culinary level. This shift also reflects changing consumer expectations, where visitors are looking to shop, relax, meet others and be inspired.

Additional benefits A well-designed and managed restaurant has a clear impact on business performance. It

30 July/August 2026

By adding play areas for children of different ages, garden centres can attract a wider audience and create a more complete day-out experience.

The menu challenge

Intratuin Maastricht has increased its restaurant from 160 to 284 covers and is focusing on service and hospitality.

increases dwell time, encourages repeat visits, and strengthens customer loyalty. Visitors who stay longer are more likely to spend more, both in the restaurant and the retail area. Additionally, a strong food concept enhances overall brand perception and level of service.

A clear example can be seen at Intratuin Maastricht which has taken a slightly different approach by focusing on service and hospitality. After optimising its garden café, including expanding the number of seats from 160 to 284, the restaurant achieved a 35% increase in revenue. More importantly, the number of visitors using the café increased significantly, and customers stayed longer.

While the direct effect on retail spending is difficult to measure precisely, it is highly likely the extended stay contributes positively to overall turnover and customer satisfaction.

Another important development is the integration of family-oriented experiences.

Getting the menu right for your target customer is a challenge. Garden centres are perceived as places of nature, sustainability and wellbeing which should be reflected in the menu. In the past, ultra-processed foods appeared but, in the future, visitors will expect a healthy offering. This shift can be seen in Sweden, where Castle Garden Centre and Åkersberga Plant Sales have successfully made the move to a well-being food offer.

Are food trucks your answer?

Setting up a restaurant may not be the answer for your business. Many of our clients have set up food trucks operated in busy periods only and moved around the garden centre as and when required.

The conclusion is clear: a garden centre restaurant is no longer an additional feature, but a strategic asset. When executed well, it drives revenue growth, increases customer loyalty and elevates the overall shopping experience. However, it must be done properly. A poorly managed or lowquality restaurant can negatively affect the perception of the entire store.

For more information contact John on email: john@johnstanley.com.au

www.gardentradenews.co.uk

Affordable style meets retail performance with elho’s new niva collection The niva collection has been created in response to growing consumer demand for affordable, design-led planting products. Combining contemporary style, durability and value, niva gives retailers an opportunity to refresh their basics category with a range designed to deliver strong sell-through and broad customer appeal.

Available in 11 sizes with coordinating saucers, niva features a contemporary faceted design in anthracite and mushroom beige. Compatible displays and merchandising solutions help retailers create impactful in-store displays, encouraging multi-buy purchases, increasing basket spend and maximising sales per square metre.

Made from 100% recycled plastic, niva is lightweight, UV-stable, frost-resistant and fully recyclable, offering consumers a durable, sustainable alternative to traditional terracotta pots and planters.

Visitors to Glee can explore the latest innovations and speak with elho representatives about stocking the range.

Pet product products cts t are one of garden retail's biggest stt opportunities. opport rtunities. t

Source them at PATS 2026.

More garden centres than ever are dedicating shelf space to pet products, and it's easy to see why: pet owners are loyal, frequent shoppers who keep coming back between seasons.

The UK’s leading pet and aquatics trade event

REGISTER NOW Free entry ry for qualify qualifying fying trade professionals ls

27–29September2026 NECBirmingham www.patshow.co.uk

Planteria

Green innovation Shining a spotlight on new introductions to boost planteria sales.

Searching out novelties at the HTA National Plant Show.

I

n fairy quick succession, garden centres enjoy several headline grabbing plant shows, each offering up the latest and future trends, and awards for new introductions. In some cases, it’s not initially obvious to see what a particular new introduction brings to the mix, but this year, winning plants from the HTA National Plant Show and BBC Gardeners’ World Live presented clear innovation showing that breeders are filling defined gaps in the market.

Benefiting the whole industry, such innovation presents great opportunities for retailers to keep their planteria vibrant and continue to bring gardeners something new.

New sales opportunities Taking Best in Show and Visitor Vote at June’s HTA National Plant Show is a perennial

32 July/August 2026

spin on a much-loved annual. Antirrhinum ‘Shiryu Kiss’ has been in the making for a more than a decade and is the result of crosses by Peter Moore, who has brought gardeners many new introductions including the popular Choisya dewittenana White Dazzler.

With good powdery mildew and rust resistance, this perennial is a prolific and regular bloomer, has purple tips to new growth and gives garden centres the chance to promote it as a patio plant or within the herbaceous section. Availability is currently limited to Waitrose and T&M, but next year when more widely grown, garden centres can tell customers that ‘shiryu’ means ‘dragon’ in Japanese, and 100% of the royalties go to the charity Perennial.

The versatility of Chamaecyparis thyoides EL PASO™ from Javado also brings new

sales opportunities. Because this tiny conifer grows incredibly slowly it sits happily in any rockery or alpine display but can also be promoted as a bonsai for indoor or outside growing. Extremely low maintenance it will also appeal to new gardeners, those with small gardeners or balconies and anyone looking for all-year-round colour.

Winners in the HTA New Plant Awards Best in Show and winner of the Herbaceous Perennials category: Antirrhinum ‘Shiryu Kiss’, from Kernock Park Plants Annuals, Tender Perennials and container & basket plants: Digitalis hybrida Arctic Fox Lemon Cream, from Ball Colegrave

www.gardentradenews.co.uk

Planteria

Above: Peter Moore, who bred Antirrhinum ‘Shiryu Kiss’ celebrates it being judged Best in Show.

Left: Michel Heemskerk with tiny conifer EL PASO from Javado.

BBC Gardeners’ World Live The Hot of the Potting Bench feature at BBC Gardeners’ World Live, brings together an eclectic mix of new introductions, with judges working their way through 78 entries entries. The overall prize, The Peter Seabrook Award for Best New Plant, went to Antirrhinum ‘Shiryu Kiss’ from Kernock Park Plants, another accolade for this innovative new perennial.

Other category winners

Rosa Art Deco bred by Kordes Roses and available from Whartons Garden Roses is one of on-trend new two tone cultivars. It is also the 2027 Rose of the Year.

Flowering Houseplants: Euphorbia Tiara Alexandra, from Javado UK. Foliage Houseplants: Ananas Babyboom, from Javado UK. Cacti & Succulents: Wild kalanchoe ‘Octopus’, from Javado UK.

www.gardentradenews.co.uk

Steph Dunn James and Kate Pearce from Frank P Matthews, say fruits from apple Legacy can be eaten straight off the tree and stored for many months. Sales benefit the National Garden Scheme.

Trees: Malus domestica Apple Legacy, from Frank P Matthews.

Shrubs (including Conifers) & Climbers: Chamaecyparis thyoides EL PASO™ from Javado UK.

• Ornamental shrubs and trees: Hydrangea Groundbreaker® Ruby from Suttons • Edibles: Pear, Nuvar™ Misty Rose™ by Frank P. Matthews • Tender, conservatory and houseplants: Streptocarpus ‘Holly’ by Dibleys Houseplants • Annuals and bedding plants: Pelargonium Calliope Landscape ‘Rock ‘n Rose’ by Syngenta.

Ones to watch • Digitalis Rhubarb and Custard by Allensmore Nurseries • Petunia Bubbles Magenta Split by Kerley & Co • Lewisia ‘Sunset Glow’ by Kernock Plants • Rose Art Deco by Roses UK (Rose of the Year 2027)

July/August 2026 33

Viewpoint

Viewpoint

SOLEX 2026 – a

sshow how to rememb ber!! remember!

Gina Hinde, LOFA General Manager

A

s the doors closed on SOLEX long after the exhibition has closed. SOLEX 2026, I couldn’t help but has always been about bringing together smile. Looking back over the the right people, and once again it delivered three days, I can honestly exactly that. say it was my favourite SOLEX to date.

Positive feedback From the moment the doors opened, The atmosphere and quality of the event there was a real sense of optimism were reflected in the feedback we received throughout the halls. Every LOFA member from exhibitors after the show. It was had clearly pulled out all the stops, and the incredibly rewarding to hear so many standard of the exhibition was exceptional. positive comments about the quality of The stands looked incredible, showcasing the buyers, the conversations taking place not only the professionalism of our on stands and the overall success of the members but also the passion, creativity exhibition. and innovation that continue to drive the “I genuinely believe that it was our best outdoor living industry forward.

SOLEX yet and I heard nothing but positive SOLEX has always been more than just feedback from buyers... the quality of buyers a trade exhibition; it’s where our industry this year was top notch too.” comes together to share ideas, strengthen Another exhibitor summed it up perfectly: relationships and showcase the very best “You guys deserve medals for the work our sector has to offer. This year, that spirit you do. It’s not that long ago that everyone was evident everywhere you looked. (including me) was down on the show, and What struck me most was the freshness you have transformed it into being the ‘must of the product ranges. There was a clear do’ trade fair for companies such as mine. move towards calming, natural colour Thank you, well done and see you next year!” palettes, with soft greens, warm beiges Feedback like this means a great and rich auburn tones creating beautifully deal to everyone involved in organising inviting outdoor spaces. Plush cushions, SOLEX. It reinforces our belief that the modular seating, woven textures and exhibition succeeds because it brings contemporary outdoor kitchens sat together the right people, creating comfortably alongside statement planters, meaningful conversations, valuable business elegant outdoor structures, innovative opportunities and an event that the industry lighting, spas, barbecues, smokers and genuinely looks forward to each year. outdoor heating. Together, they reflected a The greatest measure of success isn’t growing trend towards stylish, comfortable something you can always capture in visitor outdoor living, where minimalist design statistics. It’s the confidence exhibitors have delivered maximum impact. in the event. With more than half of our Of course, beautiful products are only exhibitors already committed to SOLEX part of the SOLEX story. For me, the real 2027, it’s clear they recognise the success of the exhibition is measured value the exhibition delivers by the conversations taking place and are investing in its on every stand. Throughout future. For us, that’s the three days there was a one of the strongest constant buzz as retailers, SOLEX 2027 endorsements we buyers and suppliers caught 6–8 July 2027 could ask for. up, discussed the season NEC Birmingham The exhibition ahead, explored new product www.solexexhibition.com doesn’t end when the launches and strengthened halls close for the day relationships that will continue

34 July/August 2026

either. Our annual evening event once again proved to be a highlight of the week. Paul Sinha had everyone laughing from start to finish, while outside, the barbecue area offered a completely different atmosphere.

With chilled music, great food and relaxed surroundings, it became the perfect place to unwind, catch up with industry friends and continue conversations in a more informal setting. It was a reminder that SOLEX is about people as much as products. Many of the relationships that shape our industry are 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, and every year our members continue to raise the bar. The passion, commitment and professionalism shown by every exhibitor this year were a credit to our sector, and together they created an event that truly reflected the strength of the outdoor living industry.

Anniversary celebrations on the horizon As I left the NEC, my thoughts were already turning to SOLEX 2027. Next year will be an especially significant one as LOFA celebrates its 60th anniversary. Reaching our Diamond Jubilee is a remarkable milestone and an opportunity to reflect on six decades of representing, supporting and championing the outdoor leisure industry.

There could be no better place to celebrate this special anniversary than at SOLEX – our flagship exhibition and undoubtedly the jewel in LOFA’s crown. We are already looking forward to welcoming exhibitors and visitors back to the NEC for what promises to be a truly memorable celebration.

To every exhibitor, visitor, sponsor and member of the LOFA team who contributed to SOLEX 2026, thank you. Your enthusiasm, professionalism and commitment are what make this exhibition so special, and I can’t wait to do it all again next year.

www.gardentradenews.co.uk

Viewpoint

Resilience during water restrictions Will Armitage, HTA President

Our dog Nigel in the rainwater dip tank filled via the downpipe from the greenhouse guttering and emptied by a succession of dogs using it to cool down in summer. In the winter, the cat uses it as a big ice lolly!

W

ater restrictions have crept back in again this year. Whatever you believe is the cause, there is no question our climate is changing.

Back in the early 1990s, I was lucky enough to be in further education; part of the course covered ecology, which was quite new at the time. Soon after, the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development was held. Known as the 1992 UN Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro, it was the first gathering of over 170 world leaders to discuss pressing environmental issues.

That summit established the framework and foundations for all subsequent agreements and continues to shape global environmental policy today.

In 1992, three major conventions were created: the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, the Convention on Biological Diversity and the UN Convention to Combat Desertification. It was the first time the phrase ‘climate change’ hit the headlines and became part of the world’s lexicon.

As students covering the details of these conventions, it was clear we all needed to ‘think global but act local’ and recognise and use our spheres of influence to communicate initiatives to impact the three conventions. What better industry could we

www.gardentradenews.co.uk

possibly be involved in to have such a large sphere? Our customers are such willing participants in that sphere, making a positive impact on their local area, and en masse can make a global impact.

Our industry When water restrictions are imposed on us, as a sector, we willingly do our bit, even though garden centres and ornamental plant growers use around 19.4 million cubic metres of water per year, equivalent to just 0.15% of the UK’s total water use. I do wonder sometimes if the actions being taken by the water authorities are just for show, an attempt at being seen to do something, knowing that gardeners are a willing, environmentally aware section of the population who will do as we are told.

The HTA is currently lobbying on behalf of our members. We are active on the National Drought Group and are calling on water companies to use the correct terminology when discussing water restrictions, to take proper action, unlock funding for reservoirs (especially for our grower members), and stop pointing the finger at hosepipes/ customers as a distraction from the real problem.

Along with HTA lobbying, there are some things which you can do locally to help.

Firstly, please refer to any impositions made on us by the water authorities as ‘water restrictions’ and use your sphere of influence to make sure those around you do the same.

We need to shift the language away from ‘hosepipe bans’, which can discourage people from visiting garden centres and purchasing plants, creating uncertainty for both garden retailers and their customers.

We also need to do what we can to promote rainwater harvesting.

Secondly, call out myths - with anyone and everyone. You CAN water new planting, you CAN still use a hosepipe to fill or maintain a pond to save wildlife, you can also invest in a water butt to collect rainwater. And help your customers choose resilient plants by dedicating benches in plant areas to plants suitable for dry conditions.

These top tips will help your customers and should provide a healthy bottom line.

Find out more

The Horticultural Trades Association is the UK industry’s leading membership organisation and welcomes all sectors of environmental horticulture.

To learn more, please visit www.hta.org.uk or to enquire about membership please email: membership@hta.org.uk

July/August 2026 35

TRADE EVENT

Save the date SOLEX 2027

6 - 8 July 2027 NEC, Birmingham solexexhibition.com

Garden Furniture | Barbecues | Shading | Outdoor Living Accessories | Garden Decoration Garden Leisure Buildings | Outdoor Heating | Outdoor Health | Outdoor Entertainment