As we approach the end of 2021, theirs plenty to keep you busy within the garden this month, from moving plants that have outgrown their space to planting roses and, of course, winter digging. Check out our December hints and tips below put together by our Chairman and Horticulturist, John Richardson.
1) After long periods of November rain, often heavy, fallen leaves have become a congealed mass on lawns and many garden corners, try and clear them away to the compost heap before they start to rot and affect so many plants such as herbaceous, alpines, low growing shrubs and plants in containers.
2) Any plants which are now too big for their location or ‘in the wrong place’ can be safely moved, and the soil in December is usually warm enough to stimulate the production of new roots. Stake tall new plants to prevent wind rock until well-rooted and reduce their size if appropriate.
3) Place undercover any tender plants which have been overlooked earlier in the autumn and ensure that such plants growing in the ground are wrapped in straw and hessian, polythene is not the best material as it prevents air from getting to the plant.
4) If you intend to get on with the winter digging, cover a suitable area with polythene so that the ground is not waterlogged when you wish to dig.
5) Clean moss and lichens from paths and walls. There are several commercial brands of cleaner available, but bleach is equally as good. A power washer will make light work of the job, which is impressive when completed!
6) Lower temperatures and frost is forecast, make sure your bird feeding stations are clean and regularly refilled. The same applies to an accessible water supply. Remember, cooked food as opposed to birdseed may well attract vermin.
7) with long periods of rain expected, don’t forget to put a glass or plastic sheet over your alpine plants to keep off the majority of the rain.
8) Now is a good time to plant roses, heel them in if soil conditions are not suitable for immediate planting.
9) Before planting trees and shrubs ensure roots are moist by soaking in a bucket or similar.
10) This month is a good time to prune Birch and Acers. Trim the lawn edges for a quick lift!
11) Check apples and other stored fruits for signs of rotting and throw out damaged fruit for the birds. Remove mummified fruits from the apple trees.
12) Start Amaryllis (Hippeastrum) bulbs into growth urgently if required to flower by Christmas.
13) Tidy up the greenhouse during inclement weather, and also prune glasshouse grown grapevines.
14) Be ready to plant tulip bulbs after the middle of the month to reduce tulip disease (Tulip Fire).
15) Insulate with bubble-wrap and hessian those plant containers which are to be left outside over winter, in order to prevent the pots cracking in frosty periods.
16) Thoroughly clean and grease the lawnmower and sharpen or replace the blades.
17) The earlier any winter digging can be done, the better, as this allows rain, snow, frost and ice to break down clods of soil and make cultivation in the spring so much easier.
Posted 30th Nov 9:37am
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Is your next garden project a bit of a suntrap? do you require hedging varieties for a full sun position? we have you covered with our favourite hedging varieties for full sun below from Photinia to Prunus and even Lavender for your smaller hedging requirements.
Cornus Elegantissima
Grey-green leaves with creamy-white flowers in early summer and red stems that can be seen during the winter periods, plant in a sunny position for best results.
Flowers: May – June
Position: Full sun to partial shade
Height: Up to 2 metres
Soil: well-drained soil
Available in 2L, 3L, 5L, 10L + pot sizes and as bareroot from November – March
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Grisellina littoralis
A great hedging plant for a seaside retreat with large glossy, apple green ovate leaves. Grow in moist well-drained soil in a sheltered sunny spot for best results.
Position: Full sun
Height: Up to 12 metres
Soil: well-drained soil
Available in 2L, 3L, 5L, 10L + pot sizes and as a rootball and bare-root plants from November – March
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Lavender Hidcote – why not choose a lavender plant for a scented small hedge in a sunny position? perfect for the edge of a path or small hedge at the front of a garden. This plant will also attract pollinators to your garden. Head to our pollinator-friendly plants guide for more bee loving plant varieties.
Flowers: July – September
Position: Full sun
Height: Up to 0.6 metres
Soil: well-drained, fertile soil
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Photinia ‘Red Robin’- A versatile evergreen shrub that can be used for hedging, trained against a wall and even used as a ½ std tree once trained. It is happy in most fertile soils, in either a sunny or shaded position. If you wish to encourage its strong red growth and more flowers, it will be better planted in a full sun position. White flowers appear by April and into May once the plant is better established. We have found Photinia ‘Red ‘Robin’ to become ‘leggy’ over time if it is not properly maintained and left to run away with themselves, they can grow up to 4m tall and up to 4 m wide.
Flowers: April – May
Position: Full sun – partial shade
Height: Up to 4 metres
Soil: well-drained, fertile soil
Available in 2L, 3L, 5L, 10L + pot sizes and as a rootball from November – March
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Pyracantha varieties
Known for their colourful berries available in yellow, reds and oranges which will last from Autumn through to Spring if left untouched by birds. Great against a back wall these Pyracantha will stop intruders. Available potted throughout the year.
Position: Full sun – partial shade
Height: Up to 3 metres
Soil: well-drained, fertile soil
Available in 2LD, 3LD, 5L, 10L and 20L + pot sizes
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Prunus Rotundifolia
A vigorous, dense evergreen shrub suitable for almost all locations. Large, glossy green leaves make this a go-to plant above other Prunus varieties. Its density makes it ideal for screening for privacy, and it is a great barrier to noise and wind. Commonly known as laurel, this hedging variety grows up to 60cm per year and is relatively happy in most soil conditions.
Flowers: April
Position: Full sun – full shade
Height: Up to 5 metres
Soil: well-drained, moist soil, do not plant in shallow chalk
Available in 2L, 3L, 5L, 10L + pot sizes and as a rootball and bare root plants from November – March
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Prunus Lusitanica
Also known as Portuguese laurel, boast luscious dark green glossy leaves on deep maroon stems with small, fragrant white flowers in the summer which are loved by pollinators and red berries in the autumn which are very popular with birds.
Position: Full sun – partial shade
Height: Up to 15 metres
Soil: well-drained, moist soil, do not plant in shallow chalk
Available in 2L, 3L, 5L, 10L + pot sizes and as a rootball from November – March
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Rosa rugosa
A hardy, easy to grow rose with pink scented flowers from June through to September, followed by bright scarlet hips. A dense, vigorous growing hedging variety happy in full sun.
Flowers: June – September
Position: Full sun – full shade
Height: Up to 1.5 metres
Soil: well-drained soil
Available in 2L, 3L + pot sizes and as bare-root plants from November – March
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Click here for more hedging solutions
Posted 30th Nov 2:29pm
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Winter is a time when many gardens can feel a little lacklustre, but with the right plant choices, you can transform your outdoor space into a vibrant haven full of interest. In this blog, we highlight some of our favourite plants that excel in adding colour, texture, and fragrance to your garden during the colder months. Whether you’re looking for striking blooms, colourful stems, or delightful scents, these options have got you covered.
Cornus, commonly known as dogwoods, are renowned for their strikingly colourful stems that are revealed when their leaves fall in autumn. Available in vibrant shades of red, yellow, and orange, these plants add a dramatic splash of colour to winter gardens. They are ideal for creating structure and can be used in borders or as part of a winter-themed display. Cornus thrives in well-drained soil and a sunny position. To maintain the intensity of their stem colours, prune back old wood in early spring.
Position: Full sun – partial shade
Flowers: May – June
Height: Up to 3m (depending on the variety)
Soil: moderately fertile soil
Pot size: 2L, 3L, 5L, 10L ( subject to availability and the variety)
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Sarcococca is a compact evergreen shrub prized for its glossy leaves and intensely fragrant, creamy white flowers that appear in winter. It thrives in shady spots and is perfect for planting near doorways or paths where its scent can be enjoyed. This low-maintenance plant also produces attractive black or red berries, adding further interest.
Flowers: Late winter-early spring
Position: Partial shade
Height: Up to 0.5m
Soil:fertile, well-drained, moist soil
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Often called the “Christmas rose,” hellebores are shade-loving perennials that produce elegant flowers in shades of white, pink, purple, and green. These hardy plants bloom from December to March, making them a must-have for winter interest. They thrive in well-drained, humus-rich soil and look stunning in woodland gardens or as underplanting for shrubs.
Flowers: December – March (depending on the variety)
Position: Partial shade
Height: Up to 45cn (depending on the variety)
Soil: Heavy, neutral to alkaline soil
It would help if you planted in partial to full shade for best results and cut back old leaves in January – February to show off new flowers.
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Are the perfect addition to a shaded spot in your garden as they prefer full – partial shade with spikes of yellow flowers from November through to March that has a fragrant reminiscent of lily-of-the-valley on dark green holly-like leaves. Prune in spring after flowering.
Flowers: November – March (depending on variety)
Position: Full sun – partial shade
Height: Up to 5m (depending on variety)
Soil: Moist-well-drained, fertile, humus-rich soil
Pot size: 2L, 3L, 5L, 10L, 20L (depending on variety and subject to availability)
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Are you in need of some autumn/winter colour? Skimmia Rubella are known for their dark red flower buds, which are produced in autumn and last through to winter until the flowers open in spring. They are an excellent plant for a patio pot or border.
Flowers: April – May (depending on variety) flower buds are seen in autumn-winter.
Position: Partial – full shade
Height: Up to 1.5m (depending on variety)
Soil: Moist-well-drained, acid soil
Pot size: 2L, 3L, 5L, 10L (depending on variety and subject to availability)
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Evergreen Viburnums such as tinus are a great shrub for winter interest with dark green leaves and clusters of tiny white flowers from December to April.
A great low maintenance, easy-to-grow shrub that can brighten a part shaded area of the garden when little else is flowering.
Flowers: December – April
Position: Full sun or partial shade
Height: Up to 3m (depending on variety)
Soil: Fertile, moist-well-drained soil
Pot size: 2L, 3L, 5L, 10L (depending on variety and subject to availability)
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Hamamelis is known for its fragrant, spider-like flowers in shades of red, yellow, and orange that bloom from January to early spring. As a slow-growing plant, it can become a large shrub or small tree over time. Its autumn foliage is equally impressive, turning vibrant shades of yellow, orange, and red. Plant it in acidic, well-drained soil and a sunny to partially shaded spot for best performance.
Flowers: January – February
Position: Full sun – Partial shade
Pot size: 5L, 10L, 20L + (depending on variety and subject to availability)
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Bright yellow flowers adorn the bare stems of Jasminum nudiflorum during winter and early spring, bringing a splash of sunshine to the garden. This deciduous climber is ideal for training against walls or trellises. It prefers a sunny or partially shaded position and benefits from light pruning after flowering to maintain its shape.
Flowers: January – March
Position: Full sun – partial shade
Height: Up to 3m (depending on variety)
Soil: Fertile, moist-well-drained soil
Pot size: 2LD, 3LD ( subject to availability)
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To ensure your winter-interest plants thrive, consider the following tips:
Winter-interest plants not only add beauty to your garden during the colder months but also provide crucial habitats and food for wildlife. Brightly coloured stems, fragrant flowers, and evergreen foliage ensure your outdoor space remains lively and inviting, no matter the season.
Posted 24th Nov 5:21pm
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Our onsite plant centre is celebrating its best year ever, with a turnover of over 2 million, for the first time in its history. Johnsons of Whixleys overall turnover was just over 15 million, another record for the company in its 100th-year history.
The plant centre division, which Alice Knowles runs, was responsible for selling over 340,000 items and has seen a 12.62% increase of new customers and an increase in sales of 21.07% on the previous financial year.
The division’s successes are due to an increase in demand for garden projects and restorations by the public who have been putting their usual holiday funds into their gardens, which has made Landscapers, Garden Designers, Property Developers and others within the industry much busier. People also recognise the importance of a greener world and how plants can help the environment. We have also improved our website and social media pages and sent out regular PR campaigns, which have increased our visibility within the industry and increased the number of new customers on our system.
Plant Centre Manager Alice Knowles said: ” We are incredibly proud to have achieved our best year ever. We have adapted to the challenges Brexit has brought and have taken on board customer feedback and requirements, including moving away from traditional lines. We have increased our range and have added more unusual and exciting lines. I’m continually looking at ways to evolve the plant centre, including keeping up with the demand and the different requirements.
There has also been a few changes to our department with new faces joining our sales and operations side; find out more about the whole team below.”
Find out about our Amenity Sector and its changes by clicking here
Posted 18th Nov 9:13am
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Is your next project located at a site vulnerable to elements such as strong winds, with no natural barriers for protection? Don’t let the harsh conditions deter you! To help you create a resilient and thriving landscape, we’ve compiled a list of hardy hedging varieties specifically chosen for exposed sites. These plants are designed to withstand challenging weather while providing shelter, privacy, and aesthetic appeal.
Acer campestre
Acer campestre is a tough, deciduous species that excels in exposed locations. Unlike dense evergreens, its foliage allows wind to filter through, reducing the impact of strong gusts and creating a more sheltered environment. This makes it an excellent choice for hedging in areas prone to harsh weather.
Position: Full sun – partial shade
Height: Up to 4M
Soil: any soil (except water-logged sites)
Available in bare-root sizes 60-80cm and seedling 30-40cm. Also available in 2L, 3L, 5L & 10L.
Crataegus monogyna
Crataegus monogyna, commonly known as Hawthorn, is a highly popular native hedging plant, valued for its resilience and seasonal interest. In spring, it bursts into life with clusters of fragrant white flowers, adding charm and attracting pollinators. As autumn arrives, its green foliage falls away, revealing large, sharp thorns that provide excellent security and structure to the landscape.
This hardy species thrives in cold, windy conditions, making it ideal for inland exposed sites. Even in the face of strong winds, it can reach heights of up to 3 meters, offering both shelter and privacy.
Position: Full sun – partial shade
Height: Up to 3M in an exposed location
Soil: any soil (except water-logged sites)
Available in bare-root sizes from 40-60cm up to 200cm tall and in container pots after the bare root season.
Cupressus Leylandii
Cupressus Leylandii is one of the fastest-growing evergreen hedging plants, making it an excellent choice for those who need quick results. Its dense, upright growth offers exceptional windbreak capabilities, privacy, and noise reduction, making it a versatile barrier for exposed sites. This hardy species thrives even in cold and windy conditions, providing year-round greenery and protection.
Position: Full sun – partial shade
Height: Up to 12 metres
Soil: well-drained soil
Available in 2L, 3L, 5L, 10L + pot sizes
Cotoneaster Franchetii
Cotoneaster franchetii is a tough and adaptable hedging plant, perfectly suited for both exposed inland and coastal sites. Its attractive, sage-green leaves with silvery-white undersides create a striking contrast, while clusters of delicate pink flowers emerge in early summer, adding a splash of colour to your garden. By autumn, these blooms give way to vibrant deep orange berries, which are not only visually appealing but also provide a valuable food source for wildlife.
Position: Full sun – partial shade
Height: Up to 3 metres
Soil: Any except water-logged
Available in 2L, 3L, 5L, 10L + pot sizes
Taxus Baccata
Taxus baccata, commonly known as Yew, is a classic dark green evergreen hedging plant, renowned for its versatility and timeless appeal. With its needle-like foliage, Yew not only provides year-round coverage but also acts as an excellent wind filter, making it ideal for exposed sites. This variety is highly prized for its use in formal gardens, often gracing the grounds of stately homes and private estates.
Available in 2L, 3L, 5L, 10L + pot sizes and as a rootball from November – March
Flowers: April
Position: Full sun – partial shade
Height: Up to 20 metres
Soil: well-drained, fertile soil
Grisellina littoralis
Griselinia littoralis is an excellent choice for coastal gardens, thriving in the salty air and windy conditions often found by the sea. Its large, glossy, apple-green ovate leaves bring a fresh, vibrant look to any landscape, offering year-round colour and structure.
Position: Full sun
Height: Up to 12 metres
Soil: well-drained soil
Available in 2L, 3L, 5L, 10L + pot sizes
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Posted 22nd Nov 4:38pm
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November reminds us that winter is on its way with leaves on the trees falling rapidly and the increase of rain and wind. During November container plants and some ground plants will need protection from the frosts, wind and freezing rain. November is also the start of the Bare Root and Root Ball season so there’s plenty to be on with this month. Check out our latest hints and tips put together by horticulturist John Richardson.
1) The earlier winter digging can be done, the better, as this allows rain, snow, and frost to break down the clods of soil which will make cultivations in the spring so much easier.
2)Collect and dispose of the fallen fruits from apple trees, many will be damaged and prone to spreading diseases such as brown rot.
3)Divide and replant rhizomatous Iris, and layer Carnations and Pinks. Peg them into moist soil after carefully cracking a small section of the stem. Ensure the treated area remains in moist soil.
4)Now is the best time to plant roses, buying plants that are field-grown (bare-root) is the most economic and will survive just as well as container-grown plants if kept moist when out of the ground. For long delays, heel in the roots of the plant in an area that is not waterlogged.
5)Replace those small patches of the lawn which have become damaged, with turf from a less obvious area. Do not perform this task when the soil is waterlogged or frozen.
6)Take the opportunity to cut back overgrown hedges, either mechanically on deciduous plants or with secateurs and a saw on large-leafed evergreens such as laurels and rhododendrons. Trim conifer hedges next spring.
7)Clean moss and lichens from footpaths and walls. There are several commercial brands of cleaner available, but bleach is equally good. A power washer will make light work of the job!
8)Before the month-end check apples and other stored fruits for signs of rotting and throw out damaged fruit for the birds.
9)Plant tulip bulbs after the middle of the month to prevent the spread of Tulip Fire disease.
10)Make sure you have checked the compost heap and the bonfire for hibernating animals before you light the bonfire on November 5th.!!
11)Collect seeds of any plants you may wish to reproduce for next year. Cover seed-heads with a paper bag and tap them to release seed over time. Do not save seed from plants described as being of F1 (hybrid) origin.
12)Cut back to ground level the canes of summer fruits such as Raspberries, Loganberries, Blackberries etc. as soon as fruiting is complete. Tie in the growth of this year’s new canes as these are your next year’s fruiting canes.
13)From the middle of the month begin successional sowing of spring cabbage for winter harvest, and lettuce is sown under glass for use during the winter.
14)Clean out bird boxes and sterilize them with boiling water.
15)Insulate with bubble-wrap polythene, the pots of plants which may not be entirely hardy, or the container is a traditional frost susceptible clay pot.
16)Don’t get carried away with autumn pruning! Plants such as Viburnum bodnantense, Lonicera fragrantissima, and the flowering cherry Prunus subhirtella ‘Autumnalis’, as these will carry sweetly scented pink flowers all the way through the winter.
17)Lift and store dahlias if not already completed.
Posted 2nd Nov 9:26am
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Your garden projects don’t need to be dull or uninspired this November. In fact, the cooler months offer an excellent opportunity to explore a wide variety of autumn and winter interest plants that can add depth, colour, and texture to your landscape.
From the striking, fragrant blooms of Mahonia to the clusters of vibrant berries and rich foliage of Viburnum, there is no shortage of beautiful options to elevate your garden and bring it to life. These plants not only brighten up the landscape during the darker months but also provide visual warmth and unique features that capture attention and add charm to any project.
Cornus, commonly known as dogwood, is a versatile and visually striking group of deciduous shrubs and small trees admired for their vibrant winter stems.
After the leaves fall in autumn, Cornus showcases a stunning array of coloured stems, ranging from deep crimson reds to bright yellows and warm oranges. These colours provide much-needed visual interest during the colder months and can brighten up any garden space.
Position: Full sun – partial shade
Height: Up to 3m (depending on the variety)
Width: Up to 2m (depending on the variety)
Soil: moderately fertile soil
Pot size: 2L, 3L, 5L, 10L ( subject to availability and the variety)
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Cotoneaster is a versatile shrub known for its seasonal appeal. Varieties like ‘Horizontal’ and ‘Coral Beauty’ produce an abundance of vibrant red or orange berries during the autumn, adding striking colour to the garden.
In late spring to early summer, these shrubs are adorned with clusters of small, creamy white flowers that attract pollinators and enhance the garden’s visual charm. The combination of its delicate flowers and bold autumn berries makes Cotoneaster a great choice for year-round interest and wildlife-friendly gardens.
Position: Full sun – partial shade
Flowers: May-June (depending on variety)
Height: Up to 2m (depending on the variety)
Width: Up to 1.5m (depending on the variety)
Soil: fertile, well-drained soil
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Euonymus Alatus
Euonymus alatus, commonly known as the burning bush, is a bushy, dense, deciduous shrub that adds striking seasonal interest to gardens. Its green leaves transform into stunning shades of strawberry red in autumn, creating a vibrant display that lights up the landscape.
This shrub also features distinctive corky ridges on its branches, adding textural interest even after the leaves fall. Euonymus alatus is adaptable and low-maintenance, thriving in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil, making it a standout choice for enhancing any garden with bold autumn colour.
Position: Full sun – partial shade
Height: Up to 2m
Width: Up to 3m
Soil: well-drained soil
Pot size: 2L, 3L, 5L, 10L ( subject to availability)
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Euonymus europaeus, commonly known as the spindle tree, is a deciduous shrub or small tree prized for its striking autumn display. During the fall, its green leaves turn vibrant shades of red and purple, providing a colorful spectacle.
The real showstopper, however, is its distinctive fruit—small, pink-red capsules that split open to reveal bright orange seeds inside, adding unique visual interest and attracting wildlife. This shrub thrives in full sun to partial shade and adapts well to a variety of soil types. Euonymus europaeus is a great addition to gardens looking for multi-seasonal appeal with its combination of foliage, fruit, and winter structure.
Position: Full sun – partial shade
Height: Up to3m
Width: Up to 2.5m
Soil: well-drained soil
Pot size: 2L, 3L, 5L, 10L ( subject to availability)
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Mahonia is a standout shrub for adding vibrant winter interest to any garden. With its bold, spiky evergreen foliage and clusters of bright yellow, fragrant flowers that bloom from late autumn through winter, Mahonia brings both colour and texture during the colder months.
Mahonia thrives in partial shade and adapts well to a variety of soil types, making it a versatile, low-maintenance addition that brightens up winter landscapes.
Flowers: November – March (depending on variety)
Position: Full sun – partial shade
Height: Up to 5m (depending on variety)
Soil: Moist-well-drained, fertile, humus-rich soil
Pot size: 2L, 3L, 5L, 10L, 20L (depending on variety and subject to availability)
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Nandinas provide autumn interest when leaves turn shades of fiery red and copper.
Position: Full sun – partial shade
Flowers: July (depending on variety)
Height: Up to 2m (depending on the variety)
Width: Up to 1.5m (depending on the variety)
Soil: moist, well-drained soil
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Pyracantha, commonly known as firethorn, is a robust evergreen shrub prized for its striking display of brightly coloured berries that appear in late autumn and last into winter. These vibrant berries, in shades of red, orange, or yellow, depending on the variety, create a stunning contrast against the plant’s dark green, glossy foliage.
In spring to early summer, Pyracantha produces clusters of small white flowers that attract pollinators, adding further seasonal interest. This shrub is ideal for adding colour and texture to hedges, walls, or garden borders and serves as a valuable food source for birds during the colder months
Position: Full sun – partial shade
Flowers: May
Height: Up to 3m (depending on the variety)
Width: Up to 3m (depending on the variety)
Soil: fertile, well-drained soil
Pot size: 2L, 3LD, 5L, 10L, 20L + ( subject to availability and the variety)
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Sarcococca confusa, commonly known as sweet box, is an elegant, evergreen shrub known for its glossy, dark green leaves and highly fragrant, small white flowers. Blooming in late winter to early spring, these delicate flowers fill the air with a delightful scent, making it an ideal plant for adding interest during the colder months.
After flowering, the shrub produces small, black berries that add an additional layer of appeal and attract wildlife. Sarcococca confusa thrives in partial to full shade and prefers moist, well-drained soil. Its compact size and low-maintenance nature make it perfect for shaded garden borders, containers, or as a fragrant, informal hedge.
Position: Partial – deep shade
Flowers: December – March
Height: Up to 2m (depending on the variety)
Width: Up to 1m (depending on the variety)
Soil: fertile, humus-rich, moist, well-drained soil
Pot size: 2L, 3LD, 5L, 10L ( subject to availability and the variety)
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Sedum, commonly known as stonecrop, is a hardy, low-maintenance perennial that adds year-round interest to the garden. With fleshy, succulent leaves that range from bright green to deep burgundy, sedums offer unique texture and colour.
During late summer and into autumn, many varieties produce clusters of star-shaped flowers in shades of pink, red, yellow, or white, attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies. Sedums thrive in full sun and well-drained soil, making them ideal for rock gardens, borders, and container planting. Their drought-tolerant nature and ability to withstand poor soil conditions make sedums an excellent choice for easy-care, resilient landscaping.
Flowers: August – November (depending on variety)
Position: Full sun
Height: Up to 0.6m (depending on variety)
Soil: Moderately fertile, well-drained, neutral to slightly alkaline soil
Pot size: 2l, 3L, 5L (depending on variety and subject to availability)
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Skimmia is a wonderful shrub for adding multi-season interest to your garden. During autumn and winter, Skimmia develops clusters of tightly packed, decorative buds that promise beauty for the months ahead. As spring arrives, these buds open up into fragrant, star-shaped flowers that create a stunning display and attract pollinators.
Skimmia’s glossy, evergreen foliage serves as the perfect backdrop for both the winter buds and spring blooms, providing year-round structure and beauty. This plant thrives in partial shade and moderately fertile, well-draining soil, making it an adaptable and low-maintenance addition that elevates any garden space.
Flowers: April – May (depending on variety) flower buds are seen in autumn-winter.
Position: Partial – full shade
Height: Up to 1.5m (depending on variety)
Soil: Moist-well-drained, acid soil
Pot size: 2L, 3L, 5L, 10L (depending on variety and subject to availability)
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Viburnum is a diverse and attractive shrub that offers year-round interest with its beautiful foliage, seasonal flowers, and striking berries. In late autumn and winter, varieties such as Viburnum tinus produce clusters of small, delicate white or pink-tinged flowers that bring brightness to the garden during the darker months.
Many Viburnum species follow their flowering with colourful berries in shades of blue, black, or red, adding visual appeal and attracting birds. The foliage varies from glossy evergreen to deciduous varieties that can turn vibrant shades of red and purple in autumn. Viburnum is versatile, thriving in sun to partial shade and adapting well to different soil types, making it an excellent choice for adding multi-season interest to any garden.
Flowers: December – April
Position: Full sun or partial shade
Height: Up to 3m (depending on variety)
Soil: Fertile, moist-well-drained soil
Pot size: 2L, 3L, 5L, 10L (depending on variety and subject to availability)
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Posted 1st Nov 11:17am
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