EXPLORING PURPOSEFUL PLANTING
Transform your garden with style and sustainability
PEAT FREE PLANTING
Learn how to nurture your garden while protecting the environment
We highlight our new plants being launched this year as well as some classics we love every year
That means it’s time to grab a hot drink, immerse yourself in our exclusive Hillier Gardening Club Gardener’s Journal magazine, and plan your 2024 garden! Our team have once again created a wonderful edition for you, full of ideas and inspiration for your garden and home this spring and summer.
Here at Hillier, we have been receiving more questions from gardeners about how to successfully grow using peat free compost. We’re very proud to say that after several years of testing, our nurseries are all 100% peat free as of last year. It’s not been an easy journey, but we’ve learned a lot along the way and this year our aim is to share our learnings with our customers, to help you with your own growing. Page 8 in this magazine has some hints and tips from our growers and if you register for our emails and follow us on Facebook and Instagram we’ll keep you updated as we continue to test and learn.
We are also delighted to let you know that we will be partnering with BBC Gardeners’ World Spring Fair for our fourth year, in May 2024. We look forward to meeting many of our Gardening Club members there - and this year we’ll be creating a stunning cultivated woodland garden display.We will of course also have our team on hand to give expert advice and guidance to visitors on any of their gardening needs.
Chris Francis
This edition is packed full of motivating tips and suggestions on encouraging pollinators and choosing plants for specific purposes. You’ll also be given an exciting preview of the fantastic new plants we have to offer this year.
Thank you for your continued support and we look forward to welcoming you to a Hillier Garden Centre soon!
We are delighted to let you know that we will be partnering with BBC Gardeners’ World Spring Fair for another three years. Located in the stunning grounds of Beaulieu, Hampshire, this year’s show takes place between 3rd – 5th May 2024.
and Primroses – offering gardeners inspiration on how to create their own pockets of woodland at home. We look forward to welcoming visitors to our beautiful garden exhibit this year.
This year we are very excited to bring visitors something completely unique compared to our usual garden displays. The garden we are creating will embody a traditional woodland brimming with many natural woodland plants such as Cornus, Hellebores, Ferns, Foxgloves
We are very grateful to our supporters of our garden:
For 160 years, Hillier Nurseries has prided itself on the creation, innovation, and introduction of new plants. It is wonderful that the majority of these can still be found in gardens today. This year, we are delighted to announce the introduction of three stunning new plants bred by Hillier and exclusive to Hillier customers to buy in garden centres.
Following the successful introduction of the Erysimum ‘Colour Vibe’ Red and Orange last year, Hillier Nurseries Head of Production, Charles Carr, has continued to innovate by developing and breeding the exquisite Purple variety from this lineage. This compact plant showcases large, robust flowers of deep purple. Its allure extends beyond its captivating blooms, as the plant features long, elegant grey-green lanceolate leaves and offers an extended season of interest, making it an ideal centerpiece for any outdoor space.
Flowering time:
Spring to early summer
Sun requirements: Full sun/dappled shade
Soil: Moist but well drained
Size: 0.3m high, 0.5m spread
Introducing Mahonia eurybracteata subsp. ganpinensis ‘Meteor’, exclusively developed at Hillier Nurseries. This stunning compact evergreen shrub boasts captivating deep red architectural foliage and new growth, gradually transitioning to a lush dark green as it matures. As a unique spectacle in your garden, ‘Meteor’ takes centre stage from late August to November, gracing your outdoor space with upright spikes adorned with yellow flowers reminiscent of a meteor shower!
As the seasons shift towards cooler months, it continues its enchanting display by producing blue-black berries which add visual appeal to your garden. Mahonia eurybracteata ‘Meteor’ offers a delightful combination of aesthetic beauty and ecological benefits, making it a distinctive addition to your gardening experience. Bred by Alan Postill.
Flowering time:
Late summer to early autumn
Sun requirements: Full sun/dappled shade
Soil: Moist but well drained
Size: 1.2m high, 2m spread
Chaenomeles speciosa ‘Lemon Sorbet’ is an ornamental quince designed for the avid gardener. Boasting large double green-yellow flowers and glossy, deep green foliage, this delightful shrub is your go-to for a vibrant spring display. Not stopping at spring, it surprises again in autumn with another burst of flowers, followed by fragrant green-yellow fruits in late summer and autumn.
‘Lemon Sorbet’ is more than a mere shrub; it’s a fast-growing, twiggy hardy companion, creating the ideal spring colour palette in your garden. Versatility is its strength, effortlessly adapting to various soils. For maximum impact, consider allowing it to sprawl naturally or train it as an informal wall shrub—this way, its beautiful flowers take centre stage. ‘Lemon Sorbet’ makes gardening a joy with its trouble-free and robust nature. Whether you prefer a loose arrangement or the structured elegance of an informal wall shrub, this beauty is set to paint your garden with its elegant hues. Bred by Alan Postill.
Flowering time:
Spring to early summer
Sun requirements:
Full sun/dappled shade
Soil: Moist but well-drained
Size: Up to 2m in height and spread
As we welcome the vibrant season of spring, we’re also excited to highlight three classic plants that have been garden favourites for years. These timeless beauties may not be new, but they continue to charm with their enduring beauty and reliable performance. Join us in celebrating the simple joy these springtime favourites bring to our gardens year after year.
Brunnera Spring wouldn’t be complete without the charming Brunnera in your garden. This hardy perennial produces delicate, airy clusters of tiny blue flowers in early spring that bear a striking resemblance to the forget-menot flower. What makes Brunnera special is its lush, heart-shaped foliage that remains vibrant throughout the season. Brunnera’s low-maintenance nature and adaptability to various soil conditions make it an excellent choice for both beginner and experienced gardeners alike.
Flowering time: Late spring to early summer
Sun requirements: Partial to full shade
Soil: Well-draining, moist
Size: 0.4m high, 0.6m spread
The Syringa ‘Red Pixie’, commonly known as the dwarf Lilac, is a delightful addition to any spring garden. Its compact size and stunning lilac blooms make it a perfect choice for smaller spaces.
What sets this Syringa apart is its abundant, fragrant flowers that burst into bloom in late spring, filling the air with a sweet, nostalgic scent. This lilac variety is also well-suited for containers, allowing gardeners with limited space to enjoy its beauty. With its exceptional fragrance and vibrant blooms, Syringa ‘Red Pixie’ is a musthave for any garden enthusiast.
Flowering time:
Late spring to early summer
Sun requirements:
Full sun to partial shade
Soil: Well-draining, loamy
Size: 1.5m high, 2.1m spread
Introduced in the UK by Hillier in 2006, this relatively new variety is perfect for planting against a wall or fence, offering a vibrant backdrop for any landscaping scheme. Thriving in drier conditions, it is a medium-sized, semi-evergreen shrub with an arching habit. Its elegantly arching branches bear delicate soft green pinnate leaves throughout the season. From April to May and sporadically thereafter, short racemes of purplish-pink pea-like flowers adorn this lovely plant.
Flowering time:
Late spring to late summer
Sun requirements:
Full sun
Soil: Moist but well drained soil, tolerates quite dry areas
Size: 1.5m high, 1m spread
There’s something truly magical about the art of purposeful planting. Imagine a garden that not only captivates the eye with its beauty but also serves a meaningful purpose. Join us as we explore the secrets to selecting and nurturing the perfect plants to elevate your garden into a place of intention, sophistication, and natural wonder. Whether you seek to create a tranquil haven, a pollinator’s paradise, or a sensory delight, we have the tips, inspiration, and expert advice you need to bring your garden dreams to life.
With climate patterns becoming increasingly unpredictable, the ability to withstand dry spells is not just a desirable trait for your garden but also an expression of ecological mindfulness. One of the key reasons for prioritising drought-tolerant planting is the importance of water conservation, especially in regions prone to local hosepipe bans. By opting for droughtresistant varieties, your garden remains vibrant and sustainable even when water usage is limited.
Drought-tolerant planting brings an aura of sophistication to your outdoor space, as they not only survive but flourish in challenging conditions, showcasing their natural beauty and tenacity. The makes them a sustainable choice that requires minimal maintenance, reduces the need for chemical treatments, and supports local biodiversity. These plants provide shelter and food for insects, birds, and other wildlife, contributing to a balanced and thriving ecosystem within your garden.
Convolvulus cneorum, is an excellent choice for drought-tolerant planting due to its remarkable adaptability. This hardy evergreen shrub features silvery-grey foliage that not only adds a touch of elegance to your garden but also helps conserve moisture by reflecting sunlight. Its resilience in dry conditions makes it a lowmaintenance option, ensuring that your garden maintains its beauty even during water shortages.
Cistus, commonly known as Rock Rose, is a standout selection for drought-tolerant planting. These charming evergreen shrubs boast stunning, papery flowers in various colours, making them an aesthetic asset to your garden. Their deep root systems enable them to withstand extended periods of drought by efficiently accessing water deep within the soil. This resilience, coupled with their ability to thrive in hot, dry conditions, makes Cistus an excellent choice for gardeners seeking low-water and low-maintenance options.
So, planting for drought tolerance in your garden goes beyond practicality; it’s a commitment to sustainable gardening that conserves water, supports local biodiversity, and enhances your
outdoor space. It’s a way to create a garden that not only survives but thrives in the face of climate uncertainty, embodying both resilience and elegance.
Other plants great for drought tolerant planting:
• Sedum
• Sempervivum
• Eryngium
• Geraniums
• Achillea
• Agapanthus
Exploring sensory planting can enrich your gardening experience by involving all your senses. Beyond the visual appeal of flowers and foliage, sensory planting introduces textures, scents, tastes, and sounds that create a multi-dimensional outdoor space.
Stipa tenuissima, commonly known as Mexican Feather Grass, is a superb addition to a sensory garden. Its fine, feathery foliage is not only visually captivating but also incredibly tactile to touch, offering a delightful sensory experience. As an added bonus, this ornamental grass exhibits mesmerising movement in the wind, creating a soothing, rustling sound that enhances
the sensory richness of the garden, making it a true sensory delight for sight, sound and touch.
Lavender, with its aromatic and tactile qualities, is a sensory garden superstar, releasing a soothing scent that not only delights the senses but also promotes relaxation and calmness. Running your fingers through the soft, silvery leaves of lavender provides a delightful experience, an ideal choice for a sensory garden that engages touch and smell simultaneously.
For those who seek an alternative to lavender, Helichrysum italicum, also known as the Curry Plant, offers a unique sensory experience. Its aromatic leaves release a warm scent reminiscent of curry spices, providing a distinctive olfactory delight. Helichrysum’s appeal lies in its downy, silver-grey leaves, which are soft to the touch. Moreover, this plant is known for its long-lasting, golden-yellow flowers, adding visual interest to the garden. Helichrysum italicum is a wonderful choice for diversifying the sensory palette of your garden.
• Stipa gigantea
• Cosmos atrosanguinea
• Brizia media
• Stachys byzantia
• Phlomis fruticosa
These industrious insects play a pivotal role in the pollination of plants, ensuring the reproduction of flowers, fruits, and vegetables. By facilitating this process, pollinators are responsible for the growth of many of the foods we enjoy daily. Moreover, they contribute to the overall health and biodiversity of our local ecosystems, making them essential allies for maintaining a thriving and balanced
natural world.
To invite these buzzing wings to your garden, begin by selecting a diverse array of nectar-rich flowers, as they provide a nutritious feast for our pollinators. Species like lavender, foxgloves, and buddleja are not only beautiful to behold but also irresistible to bees and butterflies. Read more about great plants for pollinators on pages 12-13
• Hellebores
• Primula vulgaris
• Pulmonaria
• Ribes
• Prunus incisa
• Lonicera fragantissima
After years of testing, we are now peat free on our nurseries and plan to share our learnings.
In the pursuit of sustainable and ecofriendly gardening, the choice to go peat-free is not just a preference—it’s a commitment to preserving precious habitats and combating climate change. Let’s explore the why, the pros and cons, and valuable tips to make the most of your peat-free gardening experience.
Peat, often sourced from wetland habitats, is a hidden environmental menace. These ‘peatlands’ are vital ecosystems for specialised wildlife, storing vast amounts of carbon dioxide and playing a crucial role in flood prevention. Opting for peat-free alternatives is a conscious step towards protecting these habitats and mitigating environmental damage.
Things to consider when growing peat free:
Environmental benefits: Choosing peatfree compost is a positive contribution to the environment and climate.
Higher quality options: While it might cost slightly more, premium peat-free products ensure a superior gardening experience.
Variable quality: Peat-free products can exhibit variations in quality and nutrient content, making consistent results a bit challenging.
Water management: Water makes peat free composts behave differently and they need careful checking to avoid drying or over wetting. Some peat-free composts may be prone to drying out or becoming waterlogged, impacting plant growth.
BIO3, our peat replacement, is a gamechanger in the realm of sustainable gardening. Comprising three key elements, BIOFibre, West+, and Coir+, it ensures optimal plant growth and nourishment.
BIOFibre*: a natural, nutrient-rich fibre that supports plant roots as they grow. This assists a fast and efficient transfer of nutrients and moisture to the plant, promoting robust growth.
West+*: utilising unique wood fibre technology, West+ creates an ideal compost structure with optimal air spaces. This fosters the very best root growth, ensuring your plants thrive in their peat-free environment.
Coir+*: acting like a sponge, Coir+ stores and releases moisture and nutrients for extended periods. This element contributes to the overall resilience and health of your garden plants.
*Only applies to Westland Compost.
To make the most of your peat-free gardening, consider these helpful tips:
• Fertiliser support: container plants thrive with a controlled-release fertiliser to support healthy growth and longevity.
• Vigilant watering: check the compost below the surface – the top can be dry but the pot wet. If possible,
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take the plant out of the pot to check water level.
• Use water retaining gels in hanging baskets. Despite its appearance, peatfree compost can be dry around the roots. Regular, thorough watering is essential.
• Supplemental feeding: after 4-6 weeks, the inherent fertilisers in peat-free compost may deplete. If growth slows down, a liquid feed will provide the necessary nutrients (if you don’t use control release).
Enhance mix: blend 1/3 topsoil with your peat-free compost and add drainage elements like grit or small stones.
Fertiliser integration: some gardeners incorporate fertilisers directly into the compost, but be mindful of the need for periodic top-ups every 5-6 weeks.
A ban on peat use in the amateur sector is set for the end of 2024, followed by a comprehensive ban in 2030. This decisive action underscores the urgency of adopting peat-free alternatives, with innovations like BIO3 leading the change towards a greener and more sustainable gardening future.
In embracing peat-free gardening, you not only make a positive impact on the environment but also contribute to the longevity and health of your garden. It’s a green journey, rich in rewards and mindful choices, ensuring your garden thrives in harmony with nature.
Clay, chalk, loam, sand, pH, lime, soil structure, drainage. If you’re just starting out in gardening, trying to understand soil can seem a bit daunting. Honestly, it isn’t as mysterious as you think, and with a few simple tips, you can improve the soil in your garden and have an abundance of healthy blooms in no time.
Soil particles are divided into three basic types: sand, silt and clay. Sand is the largest and tends to be loose-packed, allowing water to freely drain. Clay is the smallest particle, clumps really close together and is the opposite of sand – it holds water. Silt is somewhere between the two. An even mix of these types gives you what is called loam – pretty much the ideal soil for most garden plants. Your garden soil will also contain varying amounts of organic matter such as rotting leaves and twigs, stones and of course a great variety of invertebrates and micro-organisms that are an essential part of what is called the soil microbiome.
If you have very clay soil or very sandy soil it will be easy to tell – it’ll either stick to your wellies in clumps or crumble away as you try to dig it. But how can you tell what you have if you are somewhere in the middle? Great news – if you are somewhere in the middle, you’ve already got a soil that many garden plants will tolerate or even thrive in. Even better news, there is a simple additive that will
improve all soil types, whether clay, sand or somewhere in between.
Adding organic matter to your garden soil is a no-brainer for improving the performance of your plants. It adds structure to sandy soils and helps them hold together better and retain more moisture. In clay soils, digging it through separates out the clay particles, improving drainage. In all soil types, organic matter adds natural, slow-releasing nutrients for your plants as well as adding bulk in thin, poor soils. So, what do we mean when we say “organic matter”? Stable manure is a great choice. Dig it in at the start of the spring or the end of the season in October.
Make your own compost at home on a heap or in a composter – layer up vegetable scraps from the kitchen (no cooked food or meat as you may attract rodents) with grass clippings, prunings and dead leaves. Give it up to a year and when it has a lovely brown colour and crumbly texture it is ready to add to your garden.
Either dig it in, as with manure, or add it as a layer of mulch around the base of your plants. Aim for at least two inches (5cm) deep and it will help keep weeds under control, retain moisture in the soil and protect the roots and crowns of perennial
plants from frost. All the while, worms, beetles and other tiny creatures will be slowly mixing it into your soil for you.
The pH level is a measure of the acidity or alkalinity of a soil. Water is “neutral” and has a pH of 7. Anything acidic (in the gardening world an acid soil is often referred to as ericaceous) has a pH below 7 while an alkaline soil (chalky) has a pH above 7. Most plants do best in a slightly acid soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. Ericaceous plants like Camellia and Rhododendron need a pH between 4.5 and 5.5 to thrive. A simple pH Meter from the garden centre will tell you what your pH is. To raise it, add some Garden Lime, to bring it down, add aluminium sulphate or sulphur powder.
Roots need a well aerated soil not only to grow into but also to function properly. Compacted or waterlogged soils will stop your plants from thriving. Simply push a garden fork all the way into your soil, give it a wiggle and repeat every 6 inches or so to improve the aeration.
With these easy steps, you’ll be on your way to creating a garden that’s beautiful and bursting with life. Happy gardening!
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There has been much in the news in recent years about the decline in populations of pollinators in the UK and although some species, such as bumblebees and solitary bees, are actually doing well in many areas, overall it is estimated that more than a quarter of pollinators have suffered decline since the 1980s.
Around a third of the food we eat relies on pollinators, so this is a worrying trend. If you aspire to grow fruit and veg in your garden, many of the most popular plants for the veg patch require insect pollination – runner beans, apples, courgettes, strawberries, cucumbers, tomatoes, raspberries and blackberries to name just a few.
Everyone thinks of bees when talking about pollinators and they are extremely important, especially solitary bees, which make up about 250 of the 270 different bee species
in this country. In fact, solitary bees can be 100 times more efficient at pollinating as the honeybees most of us picture going from flower to flower.
But it isn’t just bees that are important. There are more than 1500 different insect species that pollinate plants, including butterflies, moths, hoverflies (and other kinds of flies) as well as a quarter of all UK native beetles. That’s around a thousand beetle species!
The first and most obvious thing to do is to plant your garden with a variety of flowering plants which will provide a nectar source to attract these pollinators. A selection of flowering plants will attract a wide range of pollinators and, these prefer native plants to exotic ones. Giving over an area of your garden to wildflowers is a fantastic way to attract and support pollinators, and a lot of popular garden favourites are loved by pollinators – lavender, buddleja, roses and many more.
Often, simple flowers rather than “fancy” flowers are more attractive –not only are the insects able to access the nectar easily, but sometimes in our quest to breed beautiful blooms, new plant varieties lose some of the scent and nectar that our insect friends are looking for. Try to plant your garden for “year-round interest” with plants
pollinator-friendly plants on the right.
Keeping a super-tidy garden may not be the best thing to aid our pollinator populations. As well as planting some native wildflowers, just leaving an area of lawn to grow, weeds and all, will be beneficial in attracting insects. Leaving piles of leaves here and there, or not removing an old log or stump can provide a habitat for insects to shelter in. You could even buy or build an “insect hotel”.
A water source is also important. A pond is great but, for those of us who don’t have the space, an open topped water-butt, a watering can left to fill with rainwater or a regularly topped-up bird bath are all good options.
Trying to reduce our use of pesticides is of course also key. Not only do we risk killing the pollinators themselves, but the pests we are trying to eradicate may form part of their diet –for example, aphids are eaten by the larvae of hoverflies which, when adult, pollinate our plants. If you can, try to live with small outbreaks of pests. If you do feel the need to spray larger infestations, try to use short-acting “contact” products and don’t spray when pollinators are foraging for nectar. Never spray on open blooms.
We can all do our bit to help the environment and improve our gardens at the same time.
Pollinators Checklist:
Take this with you on your next visit to your local Hillier Garden Centre as a reminder and check off the plants as you purchase!
Help pollinators find the plants they need by planting them close together. Clustering plants shortens the distances pollinators need to travel.
Use native plants, local plants & pollinators have adapted to local climates & soils.
The fluttering adults represent just one stage in the life of a butterfly. To support a healthy population of these colourful pollinators, it’s key to provide caterpillar host plants. They are surprisingly fussy eaters!
Visit your local Hillier Garden Centre for our full range of plants and wildlife care or shop online.
Spring:
O Pussy Willow
O Magnolia
O Peony
O Hawthorn
O Ribes sanguineum
O Primula Vulgaris
O Erysimum
O Ceanothus
Summer:
O Marjoram
O Sedum
O Dahlias
O Honeysuckle
O Lavender
O Asters
O Gaura
O Salvia
O Penstemon
O Cosmos
O Digitalis
Autumn:
O Mahonia
O Echinacea
O Helenium
O Japanese Anemone
O Ceratostigma plumbaginoides
Winter:
O Hellebores
O Snowdrop
O Winter Aconite
O Crocus
O Lungwort
With more of us growing our own food on allotments, veg patches or the kitchen windowsill, it is important that we get good results from our efforts. That might mean succeeding with varieties you can’t readily buy in the supermarket, saving money on pricier veg, or enjoying the flavour of food that has gone from plant to plate in minutes rather than days.
Achieve great results by starting with a quality young plant. You can grow perfectly well from seed, but for certain vegetables, such as tomatoes, chillies, peppers, cucumbers and aubergines, there is another option - grafted plants. Buy a wide selection of grafted plants from your local Hillier Garden Centre.
Grafting is a technique that people have been using for at least 2,000 years.
Almost all fruit trees bought in garden centres have been propagated by grafting but it is possible to graft certain vegetable plants as well. Grafting involves joining two related plants together in order to get the best characteristics of both in your final plant. A vigorous,
strong “rootstock” is selected and the “scion” plant, which has the characteristics you want, such as a particularly flavourful tomato, is grafted on to it.
It is quite common when breeding new hybrids they tend not to grow as strongly or as healthily as the original plants from which they were bred. By grafting these on to a rootstock, you get the best of both worlds, abundant flower and fruit on strong, durable plants.
So, what are the key benefits of grafted vegetables over ones raised from seed?
If you compare the same variety of tomato, say “Moneymaker”, side by side, (one grown from seed and one grafted), the grafted plant will produce significantly more and better tomatoes. The tougher roots of the grafted plant take up water and nutrients more efficiently.
The plant grows stronger as a result, able to support more trusses of tomatoes which will also be larger.
You would normally pinch the tip out of a tomato plant after five or six trusses have set, but a grafted plant can support more, so long as you keep it well watered and fed.
Healthy plants have better natural defences against pests and diseases. The vigorous rootstock supports the growth of a more robust plant with healthy foliage better able to withstand diseases and pest attacks such as aphids or whitefly. This means using less pesticide or fungicide – you may well be able to do without entirely. Better food for you and safer for the environment.
The strong roots of a grafted plant grow out into the soil more quickly and are better able to take up water when there are heatwaves or drought conditions. They still need regular watering to get the best out of them, especially when grown in containers or grow-bags that are more prone to drying out.
The stronger-growing foliage and stems are better able to withstand a (brief) cold snap, as well as any winds and rain that our climate throws their way.
How delicious your fruit and veg are depends a lot on the nutrients the plant takes up from the soil. In particular, potassium is essential in the ripening process. Of course, a good dose of sunshine is pretty important, but with better root systems taking up nutrients more efficiently, grafted plants are in pole position to take advantage when the sun comes out.
– extra-tasty beefsteak-type tomato with meaty flesh. Each tomato can reach up to 500g in weight!
– extra
sweet, orange-coloured cherry tomato with heavily laden trusses through the summer
– early maturing with good-sized, deep-purple fruits
–
heavy-cropping “baby” cucumbers best picked at about 4” long. Brilliant to get kids interested in growing
Read more of our guides on how to ‘grow your own’ online at hillier.co.uk
–
one for the chilli enthusiasts, the fruits of Naga Red can reach over 1 million on the Scoville scale!
Have limited garden space? Consider growing your own produce using these innovative methods to not only save space but also yield a delightful harvest.
Grow veggies like cherry tomatoes and strawberries in hanging baskets for a decorative and space-savvy solution.
Utilise trellises or vertical planters for peas, beans, cucumbers, and compact squash, maximising space and simplifying harvesting.
Perfect for small spaces, use pots or crates on patios, balconies, or window sills for peppers, lettuce, or herbs.
Install horizontal gutters along sunny walls for a clever, spaceefficient way to grow shallowrooted crops.
As the winter chill begins to fade and bright mornings greet us, it’s the perfect time to breathe new life into your outdoor living area. Here are some top tips to get your patio ready for the spring.
A good scrub can freshen up your paving in no time. If you have one, a jet washer is a useful tool but a stiff-bristled brush and a bucket or hose for water will do the job. Try the Miracle Patio Surface Cleaning Brush from Burgon and Ball which makes short work of lichen and moss. A product such as Patio Magic can be useful if you have algae growing.
Pull weeds from between slabs or any gravel areas or use Path and Patio weedkiller. If you prefer to garden organically, boiling water will kill annual weeds. You can also use a vinegar solution but repeated applications may be needed.
Check your garden furniture and clean if needed. Furniture covers will get grubby over winter and can be cleaned with soapy water and a stiff brush. If you have teak (or other wood) furniture, consider giving it a coat of protective oil. You can even give it a light sanding before oiling if needed.
Check your barbecue – it may have gone a bit mouldy sat under a cover over winter. Clean the outside with soapy water and a cloth. For the inside, light it up to burn off anything in there and use a barbecue brush to clean the grills.
Quickly get a fresh look by changing up your pots for new colours or designs. Potted plants need a bit of extra care at this time of year as well – scrape off the top few inches of compost (this
gets rid of any weeds too) and replace with fresh. You could also add a slow release fertiliser such as MiracleGro All Purpose Continuous Release Plant Food Tablets to give them the nutrients they need for the growing season.
Adding lights to your garden creates ambience for those relaxing evenings. Light pathways or patio edges, uplight favourite plants or hang string lights from trees, a pergola or even guttering! Solar lights are a great way to achieve this without the expense of electricity.
As you embark on your patio makeover, remember the most important thing is to make a space that suits your style. With these tips, your patio will once again be the focal point of your garden.
As we step into a new year, the outdoor furniture scene is evolving, blending timeless elegance with modern aesthetics. While classic weaves still hold their allure, 2024 introduces a shift towards a more sleek and contemporary vibe in outdoor living spaces.
Embrace simplicity with streamlined and minimalist designs for a sophisticated outdoor aesthetic. We are proud to introduce our new range of modern three and four piece sofa sets including the Sandringham and the Richmond.
Explore sustainable and weather-resistant materials, moving beyond traditional options for enhanced durability and eco-conscious choices. Sets like our classic Chichester 6 Seat are a perfect choice for weather-resistance with its strong weave design.
Witness the charm of mixed materials, combining elements like metal, wood, and glass for dynamic outdoor furniture.
Opt for modular seating arrangements, like our brand new and exclusive Tenby Premium Corner Dining Set with chaise longue (pictured to the right) - offering versatility to adapt layouts for various outdoor occasions.
Smart outdoor furniture incorporates technology seamlessly, enhancing the outdoor experience with built-in speakers, charging stations and firepits. Visit our website for our full range of tech-integrated furniture.
Prioritise comfort with deep-seated cushions and cocoon-like designs, ensuring relaxation without compromising style. Our St Ives Single Egg Chair is a perfect fit for any size garden
Extend outdoor usability with stylish fire pits and heaters from Firepits UK, creating a cosy feeling even during cooler evenings.
We hope this will serve as a source of inspiration for transforming your outdoor living space in 2024. Consider incorporating some of the exciting new trends we’ve observed to elevate your outdoor experience and infuse your personal style into the heart of your home.
Spring is all about embracing a kaleidoscope of colours, so as your garden begins to bloom, make sure you also add some vibrancy inside your home. What better way to do this than with some colourful houseplants?
A burst of colour will not only brighten your living space, but also provide many health and mental wellbeing benefits, from improving air quality to boosting overall mood and productivity.
You can use houseplants to create interest and natural art throughout your home by mixing and matching varieties for dynamic displays. Whether you prefer soft pastels or
vibrant primaries, there’s a houseplant to suit every style and taste.
Phalaenopsis (Orchid)
Phalaenopsis, or orchids, redefine houseplants with year-round flowering in various colours. They are adored for their simplicity and striking appearance. These low-maintenance beauties thrive in medium light without direct summer sun and with minimal fertilisation and easy watering. Growing to 40-70cm when flowering, they’re safe for pets and allergy-friendly.
Kalanchoe brings a burst of brilliance with vibrant flowers in red, orange, yellow, and pink. With its succulent leaves, Kalanchoe is easy to care for, thriving in well-draining soil with minimal watering. Resilient and visually pleasing, it decorates your living spaces effortlessly.
The Gerbera daisy, a vibrant houseplant, delights with its large, colourful blooms and distinctive daisy-like appearance. Easy to care for, it thrives in well-draining soil, bright sunlight, and needs moderate
watering.
Bring a burst of joy and beauty indoors with this charming and lively houseplant.
Zantedeschia, the Calla Lily, epitomises timeless elegance with regal, trumpet-shaped flowers in various hues. Recognisable by its arrow-shaped leaves, it thrives with minimal care in well-draining
soil and bright, indirect light. Pests and diseases rarely pose a threat, allowing you to enjoy the enduring beauty of the Calla Lily hassle-free. Charming in every season.
When the UK welcomes the warmth of summer, it will be time to adjust your houseplant care routine to ensure your green companions thrive during sun-filled days. Follow these tips for a flourishing indoor garden:
Watering wisdom: with drier conditions, adapt your watering schedule. Check soil moisture regularly, and water when the top inch feels dry.
Holiday prep: plan for plant care during extended holidays. Enlist a plant-sitter or relocate plants to shadier spots. Group plants with similar needs and explore self-watering devices to maintain moisture levels in your absence.
Read our guide on how to look after houseplants in summer online for more ideas.
Sunscreen for plants: shield your houseplants from intense sunlight by moving them away from direct exposure, especially during peak hours. Rotate plants for even sunlight exposure.
Pest check: before your summer getaway, inspect plants for pests and diseases. Trim away dead or yellowing leaves, apply slow-release fertiliser, and address any specific concerns to ensure a healthy environment.
If you are looking to enhance your summer plant care arsenal, consider investing in high-quality liquid fertiliser, moisture meters, and selfwatering devices.
These tools cater to the unique needs of indoor plants, ensuring robust growth and hydration, especially during warmer weather. Additionally, explore suitable potting mixes to revitalise your plants and promote optimal root health.
Returning from your summer break to a vibrant and thriving indoor garden is achievable with these simple yet effective tips.
Visit hillier.co.uk
For our guide on caring for your houseplants.
As winter begins to fade away, and Easter draws near, there couldn’t be a better time than now to inject your home with the vibrant colours of spring. If you’re looking to let the beauty of spring blossom within your space, our Daffodil Collection is the solution! From daffodil printed crockery to daffodil hanging decorations, our collection offers endless possibilities for creating the perfect Easter atmosphere.
As you gather around the table for Easter lunch, it’s essential to make sure that your table looks as stunning as the delicious food you’ll be serving. Our daffodil collection has a fantastic range of tableware that can spruce up your table and take it to the next level of elegance. Matching bowls, for example, can act as eye-catching accents that add a vibrant touch to your table. Adding candles to your table can not only create an inviting atmosphere but can also be an excuse to add in extra decorative layers.
Adding candles to the table is like sprinkling a touch of magic and warmth to your decorations. It’s the perfect way to create an extra layer of atmosphere and make your table setting even more enchanting. The soft flickering glow of the candles adds a cosy and inviting atmosphere, setting the stage for a delightful and memorable dining experience. So go ahead and light up your table with
some beautiful candles to take your decorations to the next level!
Decorating a tree is not only limited to Christmas. Germans have decorated the branches of trees and bushes with both plastic and chocolate eggs during Easter for years. If you have large houseplants or artificial twigs that can do with some attention, it’s time to decorate! But why stop at eggs? Our daffodil collection has many hanging decorations that would allow you to unleash your creativity and add an Easter charm to your tree.
Visit your local Hillier Garden Centre to shop our NEW 2024 Daffodil Collection.
Don’t be afraid to experiment and get creative when decorating. It’s a great way to add personality to your space and make the ordinary extraordinary. How about using watering cans or jugs as vases for your spring flowers? Let your decorating be as unique as your Easter celebrations.
Get ready to embrace the Easter spirit and transform your house into a spring delight! However, you’re celebrating this spring, our daffodil collection has something for everyone.
As we step into a new season and embrace the festive spirit of spring,
it’s time to explore the latest décor trends that will define 2024. This year, creativity takes centre stage with a delightful mix of styles and elements to transform your home into a haven of celebration.
Welcoming nature indoors:
Amid the heightened awareness of nature’s positive impact on wellbeing, infusing interior spaces with natural elements fosters tranquillity and a connection to the outdoors, promoting mental health and overall happiness. Transform your space with outdoor essence to welcome the spring awakening, adding a delightful touch to your spring table.
Elegance in soft florals:
Soft florals often represent the changing seasons, and in 2024, there is a desire to celebrate and embrace the cyclical nature of time. Seasonal decor, allows individuals to bring the beauty of different times of the year into their homes, fostering a connection to the outdoors. Elevate your spring celebrations with soft floral patterns, creating a harmonious atmosphere.
Choose a quintessential spring flower as inspiration to guide your colour palette for a cohesive look.
Sustainable decor:
A major trend in 2024, sustainable decor aligns with a commitment to eco-conscious living and responsible consumer choices. Enhance your interior with a flower that complements your existing decor, ensuring choices extend beyond the season. Opt for sustainable decorations made from natural materials to embrace an eco-conscious approach to your celebrations.
Succulent planter centrepiece:
Embrace simplicity and long-lasting appeal with modern succulent planter centrepieces, introducing a touch of greenery that adds both elegance and a connection to nature to your space. Incorporate these trends for a visually stunning and memorable Easter celebration. Whether you prefer timeless elegance or a playful touch, 2024 brings a delightful array of options to suit every style.
Our wide range of speciality restaurants, al fresco and in-suite dining options, exquisite lounges, bars and expansive spaces are perfect to rest and celebrate in, knowing there is never a queue or a crowd and that every detail is taken care of and every amenity is included.
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Savour the season with delectable recipes this springtime
Celebrate spring with a delicious roast leg of lamb. Rosemary and lamb is a winning combination, especially if the rosemary is fresh from the garden.
INGREDIENTS
Serves 8
• 1 (3Kg) bone-in leg of lamb
• 2 teaspoon extravirgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon crushed garlic
• 4 cloves of garlic, sliced lengthwise
• 4 sprigs of rosemary
• 2 lemons
• Salt and black pepper to taste
1. Combine olive oil and crushed garlic. Rub the mixture on the leg of lamb.
2. With a paring knife, make about 2 dozen small, 2cm perforations in the lamb. Stuff the slivered garlic and cut rosemary sprigs into the perforations.
3. Zest and juice the lemons, spreading the zest and juice evenly
over the lamb. Season lamb with salt and pepper.
4. If cooking in an oven, preheat your oven to 180°C. Place the lamb in a roasting tin and cook for around 2h 30 mins for medium-done.
5. Let the lamb rest for at least 15 minutes before carving. Enjoy!
Tantalise your taste buds with this sweet and tangy symphony, delivering a delightful twist on the classic Bakewell flavour.
INGREDIENTS
Serves 6
• 500g shortcrust pastry
• 200g fresh rhubarb, washed and trimmed and cut into small pieces
• 50g caster sugar
• 2tbsp raspberry jam
• 125g softened butter
• 125g caster sugar
• 125g ground almonds
• 2 medium eggs
• 25g self raising flour
• 1tsp almond extract
• 30g flaked almonds
• 250ml milk
METHOD
1. Set the oven to 180OC/160OCfan /Gas4
2. Roll out the pastry on a lightly flour dusted surface to a depth of 3mm and use to line a 23cm round tin. Prick all over with the tip of pointed knife and place in the refrigerator to chill for 15 minutes.
3. Meanwhile, place the rhubarb in an oven proof dish, add the sugar and toss together to coat in sugar.
4. Cover with foil and bake in the oven for 15 minutes. Once done and the rhubarb cooked – soft, not mushy –put to one side to cool.
5. Reset the oven to 190OC/170OCfan/Gas5
6. Take out the pastry lined tin and place a sheet of crumpled baking parchment inside, ensuring it comes up the edge.
7. Fill with baking beans or rice and bake in the oven for 15 minutes.
8. Remove from the oven and carefully take out the paper and baking beans or rice.
9. Place back in the oven and continue to bake for another 5 minutes and remove from the oven.
10. Beat together the butter, caster sugar, ground almonds, flour and almond essence until blended together.
11. Spread the jam evenly over the cooked pastry case.
12. Top with the almond cake mix and spread to an even layer.
13. Place the rhubarb randomly on top of the mix and finish with the scattering of flaked almonds.
14. Bake for 25-30 minutes before removing from the oven and allowing to cool.
15. At its best eaten warm (not hot) and delicious with clotted cream or ice cream.
16. The grated zest of an orange, added to the rhubarb before cooking, is a nice addition.
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