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Mediamix Supplement ● Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Southport Flower Show 2010
Event is for the gardener in all of us E
XPERTS are predicting an explosion of colour in Britain’s gardens this year following the coldest winter in 30 years, and the UK’s largest independent flower show will be the perfect place to celebrate and enjoy the spectacle.
● The event is a chance to pick up a few tips on how to turn your garden into an oasis – or just enjoy the fruits of others’ hard work!
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the spectacular displays immediately after the judging has taken place, making this an exclusive experience. David Jackson, Chief Executive of the Southport Flower Show, said: “Our 2010 show promises to be full of interest, inspiration and involvement. We are working hard to ensure that there is a wealth of attractions across the four days and something for everyone to enjoy.” With entertainment all day in the arena and at the bandstand, free entry for children, lectures, talks and demonstrations, some of the country’s favourite celebrity gardeners on hand with advice on making the most of your garden and a warm welcome, the Southport Flower Show is the perfect summer event. For further show information and to order tickets for the Southport Flower Show, visit the website www.southportflowershow. co.uk or call 0844 847 1555. Advance tickets are £16. So, if you’re searching for something different to keep you occupied or perhaps you’re looking for a project, something you can really get stuck into – even if you’re somewhere in-between, a visit to Southport Flower Show will spark a wealth of bright ideas about how to transform your garden into your own little oasis of calm.
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Attracting around 75,000 visitors, Southport Flower Show is the largest independent flower show in the UK – and the most diverse. The four-day event features the very best in horticulture and garden design, as well as gourmet foods and all-round entertainment. Visitors will be surrounded by more than a million blooms, and the stunning Grand Floral Marquee will be packed with spectacular displays from some of the country’s top independent growers. Taking place from Thursday, August 19 to Sunday, August 22, this year’s show is set to be an inspirational event with plenty to keep the family entertained. The show gardens offer unique features, while exquisite furniture and plants will leave visitors buzzing with ideas on how to transform their own garden, whatever its size. There is also a dedicated allotment section for those who want their gardens to be productive as well as pretty. Shopping desires will also be well served with a diverse
range of exhibitors offering everything for the garden, the home, arts and crafts, clothing, footwear and much more. This year’s show has the theme Coast to celebrate the stunning seaside location in England’s Classic Resort. New for 2010, the Food Village will be brimming with quality local and organic produce and fine wines. In the demonstration area, local chefs will be cooking up delicious summer recipes to tantalise the tastebuds. Celebrity garden experts and Southport Flower Show patrons Diarmuid Gavin, Sir Roddy Llewellyn, Professor David Bellamy OBE and Professor Stefan Buczacki will be on hand to offer tips and guidance. For a touch of glamour and a sparkling reception, there is Ladies’ Day (Friday, August 20), where broadcast journalist Rachel McTavish will compere. Nationally-renowned florist Jonathan Moseley will be demonstrating the latest in floral design and Hilary Cookson of fashion store Maureen Cookson, of Whalley, Lancashire, will stage the fashion show. The Gala Preview Evening (Wednesday, August 18) is a unique summer event not to be missed. This black tie function is a highlight of the summer social calendar and will commence with a champagne reception in the Grand Floral Marquee where you can view
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Mediamix Supplement ● Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Southport Flower Show 2010
English rose will take a leaf out of gardeners’ books G
LAMOROUS TV star Suranne Jones is to open this year’s Southport Flower Show.
● Popular actress Suranne Jones will open the Southport Flower Show this year
The popular actress, whose career first blossomed on Coronation Street, will lead the grand opening ceremony on Thursday, August 19, marking the start of the UK’s largest independent flower show. “I am hugely excited about coming to Southport,” said Northern girl Suranne, who will be opening the 81st annual show this year. “It has been one of my favourite places since I was a child and I have always had a great time there.” Her four years playing feisty Karen McDonald in Corrie earned her a number of awards, notably the Royal Television Society (RTS) Most Popular Actress award. She was also voted the sexiest star in soap. Since leaving Coronation Street, Suranne, 31,
has become one of the leading TV actresses of her generation. She has turned in critically acclaimed performances in hit TV dramas ‘Vincent,’ ‘Five Days’ and ‘Unforgiven,’ which earned her a Best Actress nomination in the RTS awards. Suranne’s latest major drama ‘Single Father’ co-starring David Tennant, will be broadcast on BBC1 in the autumn. Suranne, who says her favourite flower is the classic English garden rose, added: “I am really interested in gardens and I hope to grow old in a big house with a big garden. “I’m eager to get some top tips from the experts as well as seeing all the wonderful show gardens. There is so much happening at the show this year, it sounds like my perfect day out.” Suranne describes herself as an “intrigued, keen to learn” gardener, and said she will be looking for inspiration and tips
on how best to use the limited space she has at home. “I don’t have the luxury of a large garden where I live, so I’ll be asking the experts how I can give my home a bit of life,” she said. “I’m sure the knowledgeable, friendly people visiting and exhibiting at the show will be able to give me some good advice on how to make the most of the space I have.” David Jackson, chief executive at Southport Flower Show, said: “Suranne is one of the UK’s brightest stars and we’re sure she’ll enjoy coming to the show for a great day out. “Like many of our visitors, Suranne is also keen to gather tips on how to make the best of the garden space she has and there will be plenty of good advice on offer from our experts. “We’re looking forward to welcoming her to this year’s show.”
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Mediamix Supplement ● Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Southport Flower Show 2010
Why show grew to be David’s favourite D
AVID Bellamy, prominent author, broadcaster, botanist and environmental campaigner, has had a long affiliation with the Southport Flower Show. Here he explains why he loves Southport’s annual horticultural extravaganza so much.
“The day I first visited Southport Flower Show was a real eye-opener. I was a bit worried because my particular brand of botany was all about wild weeds, not the highly cosseted ones that were on show. What an eye opener, though – crowds of people all potty about plants. I have been going there ever since. “I did my best to open the show on that day, and with a slip of the tongue I declared ‘The Stockport Flower Show’ well and truly open. I think everyone thought I had done it on purpose. “The next problem I had to overcome was answering gardening questions from a seething crowd surrounding the bandstand. Up they came with scraps of their favourite plant in its death throes with cries of ‘what did I do wrong?’ “Roddy Llewellyn and I teamed up a long time ago, and I usually let him take the brunt of bad news. I quickly learnt never to say ‘it’s only a plant,’ so now I chip in with
appropriate condolences. “The thing that really got me hooked on Southport is that it is a wonderful mix of both amateur and professional exhibitors. Each one is an expert in their own right. Take for instance sweet peas. How anyone can raise these dainty flowers and get them to the show ready for display is beyond me. As they will never grow for me, I will remain a keen observer. “As a kid in wartime London we used to dig for victory. This made me wonder whether we could find budding gardeners in the show. Thus the Bellamy Competition for the best garden design was born. “The three best have their gardens on show at Southport. The only problem is that they have nothing to achieve gardenwise. “Over the past few years things have livened up in the kids’ garden department. Two teams of youngsters are given a small plot of land on which they have to plant a garden in 90 minutes. Mums, dads, grannies and grandads cheer them on and do their best not to get in the way. The best bit is watering the plots and scrounging plants from the stalls. I can only guess what will go wrong this year! “There is no other show that beats this one for the sheer wonder of plants and people. Carry on gardening, people. Southport forever.”
● Professor David Bellamy loves Southport Flower Show
Well-known authors to sign in for new book festival
● US best-selling author Tess Gerritsen
THIS year Southport Flower Show will feature an appearance from a bestselling US crime author as part of its new book festival. Tess Gerritsen, a New York Times bestseller with 15 million sales under her belt, is the special guest at this year’s Bloomin’ Good Book Festival. Her appearance marks the highlight of the fourday event, a collaboration between Southport Flower Show and Silverdell Bookshop, Kirkham. Tess will be at the show on Sunday, August 22 speaking to visitors and signing copies of her new book, The Killing Place, which topped the Sunday Times Bestseller list in July. Bloomin’ Good Books, a
newly-created ‘festival within a festival’, will feature a host of appearances from authors, all situated in a dedicated area of the Victoria Park show grounds. Other authors making appearances at the festival include Sue Shepherd, Mike Pannett and BBC Gardeners World presenter Toby Buckland. For the younger visitor there will be special appearances from Anne Fine and Steve Hartley, author of the popular ‘Danny Baker Record Breaker’ series. Southport Flower Show runs from August 19 to 22. ● For tickets, or details of the rest of the show’s exciting line-up, visit www. southportflowershow.co.uk or call 01704 547147.
● Author Mike Pannett will be at the Show
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Mediamix Supplement â—? Wednesday, August 11, 2010
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Mediamix Supplement ● Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Southport Flower Show 2010
Students have designs on success A
TOUCH of international class will be gracing Southport Flower Show this year.
The winners of this year’s Southport Flower Show Student Garden design competition have been announced, with this year’s top entry showcasing the best in Continental cool. A team from the Oxford College of Garden Design (OCGD), consisting of Momo Pino, 32, from Croatia and Alexandra Lehne, 34, from Germany, won the competition with their design based on the show’s theme of Coast. The team of judges congratulated them on the high calibre of their entry, and praised the winners for their use of both conceptual and sculptural elements in their design. The competition challenges design students to create an exciting and unique garden with a budget of £5,000. The winning design is then brought to life and displayed in front of more than 75,000 people at the Show. For one half of the winning team it was a chance to improve on last
year’s second place finish. Momo, who was highly commended for her 2009 entry, said she was happy to go one step further this year. She explained: “I made a few mistakes with my entry in 2009. It was unrealistic in terms of budget, so I made sure that this year our entry was within budget without losing any of the flair that made our design stand out.” Momo, currently living and working in Canada after finishing her course, will be flying over to the UK to oversee the building work on the garden. She said: “I was sceptical about the design at first; it took some convincing from Alex. I wasn’t sure it was ‘showy’ enough for a show garden, but Alex had the vision and it has paid off for us. I can’t wait to see it finished and on display.” The pair, who will also receive £1,000 in prize money, embraced modern technology to work together on the designs, often working on the same project despite being thousands of miles apart. Alexandra said: “I am so happy we won; it will
be so exciting to see the final design built and displayed among all the other wonderful things on offer over the weekend of the Show. “You can have brilliant ideas but they don’t always work in real life, so this competition gives us a chance to show people that we can not only manage the whole process, but also that by being positive you can make great things happen. “It will also give us the opportunity to start our careers as garden designers with an awardwinning first item in our portfolio!” Duncan Heather, from OCGD, said: “Competitions such as this one are invaluable to designers like Alex and Momo. “It’s a fantastic opportunity for them to demonstrate what they’ve learnt and also gain the credibility needed to forge a successful career in garden design.” Building work started on the winning design in the last week of July, and it will be ready in time for the show’s grand opening on August 19.
● Alex and Momo's winning design, which will be built and displayed at this year's Southport Flower. Inset, Alex, left, and Momo Code: NA
Mediamix Supplement â—? Wednesday, August 11, 2010
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Mediamix Supplement ● Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Southport Flower Show 2010
Choosing the right designer for you F
OR most of us it’s the inside of our home which takes priority. Decorating and redecorating in what seems like an endless journey, more often than not we forget about our outside space.
● With the help of an experienced garden designer, your outside space can be transformed into a Garden of Eden
However, by creating a seamless link between the house and the garden, we can add an extra dimension to our property and create an oasis of calm and tranquility in which to while away the hours. Garden design can be a tricky business, especially for the novice. Choosing the right plants, ones that thrive in your soil and your garden environment, can be like ploughing through mud. However, help is at hand. Across the North West there are a host of qualified garden designers, each bringing their own take on how a garden should look. From the more traditional to the contemporary, a good garden designer should be able to immediately visualise what will and what won’t work in your garden. However, make sure that you do your research before choosing someone to turn your patch of green into a garden of Eden. Firstly, what would you like in your garden? Sounds simple enough, but actually it takes
time to properly research your likes and dislikes. Hours traipsing round garden centres, leafing through magazines and grappling with gardening books may seem like a chore, but in the long run it will be time well spent. Why not create a mood board? Cut out and collect images from magazines, examples of your preferred paving or decking material, use other people’s gardens for your ideas and visit your local garden centre for horticultural inspiration. Once you’ve decided on your theme and, if you’re not confident enough to tackle the job yourself, the next step is to choose a garden designer who is on your wave length. Start by looking at the website, the Society of Garden Designers (www.sgd.org.uk). All those listed are registered Members or Fellows of the Society and will have a minimum of two years’ experience. Alternatively, check out your local telephone directory, ask friends and family if they have any recommendations or maybe even enquire at your local garden centre. Always make sure the fees are sorted out up front and ask to see the designer’s portfolio and photographs/sketches of their previous work. Also be aware that a garden
● Choosing the perfect plants that will thrive in your garden can be tricky so why not seek the advice of the experts? designer may simply develop ideas, but may not be a plant expert or landscaper. Someone offering garden services, may actually be a lawn specialist. It’s vital to understand exactly what you’re paying for before you sign on the dotted line. The key thing is patience. Creating a garden to be proud of takes time, care and attention
and should not be rushed. Planting for the seasons is an excellent way to go, giving you colour throughout the year, whether it be foliage or flowers. Creating a garden is like painting a masterpiece, fusing your ideas with the best that mother nature has to offer and something that will be admired for generations to come.
Mediamix Supplement â—? Wednesday, August 11, 2010
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Mediamix Supplement ● Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Southport Flower Show 2010 ● Clowning around by Nina Agnew, winner of the Class A, plant portraits, in the 17-54 age group
Picture perfect images S
OUTHPORT Flower Show’s photography competition is now in its fifth year.
● Terry Cooper was joint winner of the Class B gardenscapes, in the 55+ age group, with his photo of Cavehill Country Park
The competition, which is open to amateurs only, offers cash prizes to three age groups: 10 – 16, 17 – 54 and over 55s – in three categories: plants, garden views and wildlife in the garden. Winners and runners up will be presented with their prize money by Professor Stefan Buczacki on Thursday, August 19. “The entrants in the photographic competition never cease to amaze me,” said Prof Buczacki. “The standard rises every year and it was especially pleasing this time to see such a wonderful selection of
You Like Flowers, We Like Bags You Like Plants, We Like Purses
remarkable quality from the 10 – 16 age group.” Here are the winning photos:
● Left, Nicolas Hicks’ image, An Invitation to Chequer Court, was winner of the Class B, gardenscapes, in the 10-16 age group and above, United Colours by John Livesey, winner of the Class C, wildlife in the garden, in the 17-54 age group
● Peter Swaine’s photo Thorp Perrow Arboretum, earned him joint winner of the Class B, gardenscape, in the 55+ age group
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● This picture by Elaine Fraser is entitled Path To the Top and was winner of the Class B, gardenscapes, in the 17-54 age group
● Above, Terry Cooper’s Young Robin, winner of the Class C, wildlife in the garden, and left, Peter Swaine’s Hydrangea Lacecap, winner of the Class A, plant portraits, both in the 55+ age group
Mediamix Supplement â—? Wednesday, August 11, 2010
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Mediamix Supplement ● Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Southport Flower Show 2010
It’s time to shed that shabby image
W
HETHER it’s a play room, hobby suite, a growing centre or just a place to pop your lawnmower, the shed should be a well loved part of our garden.
Ok, so it’s often overlooked and not many people say ‘oh your shed’s nice’ but these days the humble shed has come on in leaps and bounds. They come in a whole host of shapes and sizes too, not to mention various materials such as metal, plastic and treated timber. The choice is vast; you can opt for a compact storage boxstyle shed which has a lid that lifts up or your standard apex roof style; a curved roof or flat roof, maybe you want one that has a wall of windows on one side so you can use it as a growing area too, the list is endless. You can now also opt for more plush surroundings. Summerhouses offer a lot more, whether you want it to have laminate flooring with electrical points or maybe something a little simpler with double doors and opening windows with a little veranda. Summerhouses and cabins are ideal if you want a little space outside the house where you can relax, or if you want somewhere the children can play (even when it’s raining) and scatter their toys as much
● Relax in the summer sun in a stylish summerhouse
● Enjoy your garden this summer, while staying out of the hot sun with a stylish and practical gazebo
Picture: Garden Buildings Centre at Dobbies
as they want. Plus, as they get older, it’s a perfect escape for teenagers. If your little angel wants something for themselves then the trusted Wendy house is a touch more sturdy. You can get them their own mini castle or two-storey playhouse with real windows and doors that looks like pretty, all-American timber homes. There are a great selection of other garden structures
Picture: Taskers
available too, maybe you’d prefer a gazebo, a pretty archway, a pergola or an arbour – there’s a wide variety to help create the perfect garden you’ve been looking for. Arbours are generally a bench with a small roof and trellis-style side and back, creating a pretty place to relax in the sun while still getting a bit of shade. They can come in a simple style or something a little more elaborate, maybe a
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circular or square shape still open at the sides but with a seating area in the middle. You could always opt for a pergola, which is a frame structure open at the sides and usually the roof. It’s ideal for creating a focal point and, with some climbing plants, it’ll soon look like it’s always been part of the garden. So, if you want to add a little structure to your garden there’s plenty to choose from.
● Give your little ones a home of their own with this fabulous playhouse Picture: www.westlancssheds.co.uk
Mediamix Supplement ● Wednesday, August 11, 2010
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Mediamix Supplement ● Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Southport Flower Show 2010
Street stars join in Ladies’ Day fun T
HIS year’s Southport Flower Show’s Ladies’ Day is set to be the best yet, with two of television’s best-known faces on hand to add a touch of star quality to the proceedings.
Antony Cotton and Sue Cleaver, better known as Coronation Street’s Sean and Eileen, will be holding court at the glamorous annual event, held on Friday, August 20, to mark Corrie’s 50th anniversary celebrations. Antony, a keen gardener who has appeared on our screens as flamboyant knicker-stitcher Sean since 2003, said: “I’m really excited to be coming to Southport Flower Show. I’ve heard only good things about Ladies’ Day and I can’t wait to sample the famous Southport hospitality for myself ! “I have been gardening for years, so I am looking forward to seeing all the brilliant displays and learning how the experts create these wonderful gardens. Hopefully I can pick up a few tips along the way!” Sue, who plays ‘Street stalwart Eileen Grimshaw, said: “Everybody knows about Southport Flower Show, and Ladies’ Day is a great opportunity for us girls to get glammed up and spend a day
sipping champagne and shopping!” The day will begin with a sparkling reception, and guests will have plenty of time to relax and explore the exciting shopping opportunities on offer within the marquee, including cosmetics, lingerie, jewellery, accessories and handbags from selected guest retailers, before settling down to enjoy a delicious two-course lunch. A fabulous full day’s entertainment is planned, including a stunning fashion presentation from Maureen Cookson of Whalley and a floral demonstration from nationally-renowned florist and flower arranger Jonathon Moseley. Glamorous Sky News presenter Rachel McTavish will host the event and will welcome show patron and housewives’ favourite Diarmuid Gavin to join the ladies during the afternoon. Guests will also have time to enjoy the glorious sights, sounds and smells of Britain’s friendliest flower show, which runs from August 19 to 22 in the lush surroundings of Southport’s Victoria Park. ● Tickets for Ladies’ Day are available from Concept PR on 01704 549190. Alternatively, log on to www.southport flowershow.co.uk.
● Coronation Street's Antony Cotton with his mum Enid Dunn and, inset, co-star Sue Cleaver
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Mediamix Supplement ● Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Southport Flower Show 2010
Blooming lovely
E
VERYTHING is coming up roses this year, with floral fashion proving a real hit for summer 2010.
Forget images of frumpy dresses adorned with old-fashioned flower prints and think playful jumpsuits, funky mini-dresses and flowing maxi-dresses, all with a colourful, floral theme. Even if the weather is a bit hit and miss, you can guarantee brightening up the day with a gorgeous floral patterned outfit. And the beauty of this trend is that you can do as little or as much as you want with it. If you’re feeling brave, then go head to toe in floral fashion – or if you want a more subtle look then simply accessorise with a flower hair clip or a floral patterned belt or scarf. The possibilities are endless and the only limits are your own imagination, so get creative and you’ll look blooming lovely.
● Spring into flower show action in a Sinha Stanic floral jumpsuit Picture: www.oli.co.uk
● Get the rock chick look with a floral festival top Picture: River Island
● Florals can add a young and playful look Picture: www.apricotonline.co.uk
● A floral lace bandeau dress will look elegant Picture: www.boohoo.com
● Right: Flowers and lace make a stunning combination Pictures: Matalan
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Mediamix Supplement ● Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Southport Flower Show 2010
Budding gardeners celebrate as their designs take shape T
WO North West primary school pupils are celebrating after being named joint winners of a prestigious garden design competition.
Kerry Anne Eakins, 11, of Penketh, and Millie Lovaine, 11, of Crosby, won the 2010 David Bellamy School Garden competition, held each year in association with Southport Flower Show and the West Lancashire Freemasons’ Charity. The winning designs, chosen by a panel of judges, will now be built for real and displayed in front of over 75,000 guests at Southport Flower Show this month. Kerry dedicated her win to Private Thomas Sephton, of the 1st Battalion Mercian Regiment, who died in Afghanistan earlier in July. Private Sephton was a
friend of Kerry’s, and a former pupil at Penketh Community Primary school. Reacting to her win, she said: “Wow! It’s a bit scary! My legs went all funny and wobbly when I was told I’d won, and I couldn’t feel my feet!” Julia Stephens, Kerry’s teacher, said: “Kerry is a creative and imaginative pupil. She is deeply sympathetic to nature and wildlife, in particular horses and fish, and draws inspiration from these. “Initially she appears shy and reserved, but once she feels comfortable and relaxed her enthusiasm and interest shine through and she becomes very animated and sparky. “I’m delighted she won the competition, and her dedication to Private Sephton proves what a thoughtful and considerate girl she is.”
Kerry’s school, Valewood Primary, has good form in terms of producing winners of the competition. Pupils of the school have been entering for four years, and this year supplied 27 entries. They include a previous winner in their alumni, and another of this year’s entries, by fellow pupil Chloe Dee, was highly commended by judges. Judith Stitchbury, Millie’s teacher, said: “She is a creative, thoughtful pupil. I’m not surprised she has won the competition. “Millie is a delight to teach, and everyone at the school is so happy for her.” As winners of the competition, both schools will receive £500 from Southport Flower Show towards improvements of the school’s grounds.
● The competition is designed to encourage young gardeners
Mediamix Supplement â—? Wednesday, August 11, 2010
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Mediamix Supplement ● Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Southport Flower Show 2010
Food Village aims to treat your tastebuds I
F you long for the taste of good old-fashioned sausages, the bite and texture of real quality cheese, or the scrumptious flavour of a dessert you’d happily loosen your belt a notch for, you’re in for a summer treat. In the newly-created Food Village at Southport Flower Show, a whole host of the country’s leading independent food and drink producers will be providing a feast of culinary delights. As well as the ‘food marquee’ there is the ‘village square’ and the ‘village street,’ where more than 30 producers have gathered together to offer hungry visitors a veritable smorgasbord of tastes and flavours. In the food marquee, the demonstration kitchen, making a welcome return to the Flower Show, will present some of the best local chefs creating a range of delicious dishes. The Food Village is the place to try some of the finest food available in the country, and all you need to do is follow your nose to where your taste buds will be amply rewarded.
● An array of pies and beverages will tempt you The range of gourmet treats available to sample and buy will include quality cheeses, meats, smoked fish, chutneys and pickles, puddings and pies and tasty beverages, including beer and liqueurs.
And new for 2010, a very different type of food experience will be present at Southport Flower Show. As part of the Food Village Cole Henley, a Hampshirebased business that created a unique table barbecue, have been invited to run a barbecue bar and restaurant for visitors at this year’s event. The best British steaks, sausages and beef burgers will be served. Special choice cuts of meat are available from a select group of organic and free range farmers. And an exciting range of fish options are available, too, including line-caught tuna, dived scallops and black tail tiger prawns. Each customer chooses from an extensive menu and then sits, tongs at the ready, all set to cook any number of different menu options. Because customers cook their own food, each steak, burger or piece of tuna can be cooked to their individual liking – without ever leaving the table or the conversation. So, whatever your tastes, there’s something to suit them at Southport Flower Show. Here’s to a sizzling summer!
● The Food Village will feature a wide range of specialities
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Mediamix Supplement ● Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Southport Flower Show 2010
Make the most of the summertime
W
E Brits certainly know how to make the most of any sun we get – as soon as those clouds part we're all guilty of slipping on our shorts and stretching out in the garden or park to enjoy the weather while it lasts.
So, to ensure your garden looks in great shape when the sun does make an appearance, take a peek at the fab selection of patio furniture, summer houses and log cabins available that will turn even your basic back yard into a summer haven. You’ll find everything from compact stools and deck chairs to sleek dining sets for all the family, not forgetting those lazy, chic loungers that let you drift off to imagine the warm sands and seas of the Mediterranean. Why not make your patio area somewhere you can enjoy all day, every day, not just when you’re having a barbecue? Investing in a quality outdoor table will give you and your family many years of use, so create a patio space where you can maybe enjoy breakfast getting a bit of fresh air, or
● Enjoy the beach theme with these deck chairs Picture: John Lewis
dinner with all the family. If you’re worried about the rain, then nowadays the parasols are quite sturdy, and you can usually get them big enough to cover the whole table. Or why not think about getting an awning? A handy cover that can be easily fixed to the wall and come out when you need it then retract when you don’t is a great option if you’re planning to use your outdoor space often. Alternatively, if you’re not looking for patio furniture that accommodates the whole family and fancy something a bit more cosy, there are plenty of options available here, too. You could opt for relaxing bed loungers, retro deck chairs, a bistro style cafe set or even a
solid wood pair of chairs with a joining table. Garden accessories are big this season, too, with bold bright cushions to liven up your patio furniture to funky planters and kooky bird houses and feeders – there's plenty to choose from. The good old gnome is still around, but now there’s plenty of other options to bring a little life into your outdoor space. Candles and lanterns for outside can create a nice table centrepiece during the evening; there are also decorations you can hang from trees or your wall to form interesting features. So use your garden to its full potential and you’ll be amazed on how often you step outside.
● Hide away in a relaxing lounger
Picture: Bhs
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20
Mediamix Supplement ● Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Southport Flower Show 2010
Small spaces can pack a mighty floral punch I
F you have only a small garden or yard area at the rear of your house you may be of the mindset that there’s nothing much you can really do with that space. But, no matter the size of your garden, it’s always possible to make it bloom.
There are always ways to make the most out of your small spaces. Start by making sure the area is clean and tidy – that way you can better consider the best use of the space. A well kept yard or garden space will immediately look better, and it could even attract buyers if you’re in the market to sell your property. But, assuming that you’re staying put, you’ll want to improve the area to make it a tranquil refuge from the day, a little sun trap where you can sit with just the drone of bees to keep you company. Firstly though, plan it out. You only have limited space so it’s a good idea to take measurements of your garden or yard area and draw up a plan so you can decide what can go where. This could save a lot of expense and gnashing of teeth when it comes to actually creating the garden. One good tip for making your garden feel bigger and expanding it on different levels is to use hanging baskets. These give you a floral feel at
● Even the smallest space can be a haven with the careful choice of garden furniture
Pictures: B&Q & Justin Capp And Katie Alice Garden Furniture
eye-level and add extra dimensions to your garden. The same can be said when adding a simple wood trellis to your garden. Giving climbing plants a little helping hand with a trellis can really bring yard walls to life as flowers burst open, bringing vibrant colour to an otherwise drab wall. How about purchasing some new garden furniture, such as seats or even a table? Of course, only do this if you’re sure you have the room. You don’t want to add needless clutter, but if you can separate a little area in which to sit and enjoy the garden then go for it. If you prefer to be relaxing in your garden rather than constantly having
to tend it, you might find a rockery garden would suit you? Fill it with hardy plants and flowers that would prove both attractive and would pretty much look after themselves all year round. And it’s not just yards and small gardens. You can apply most of these rules to a simple patio area or a rooftop garden. You can easily add potted plants and container fruit trees if you feel an extra splash of green is required. It’s worth a little bit of hard work in order to have your very own beautiful little retreat from the world, in which to really relax.
● Drainpipe plant pots make a great space saver Picture: www.aplaceforeverything.co.uk
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21
Mediamix Supplement ● Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Southport Flower Show 2010 ● HMYOI Thorncross, won last year’s Brockhouse trophy for best in show
● Thorncross’ winning garden was designed to incorporate elements of the show’s theme of the 1920’s
Prisoners hope to coast to second major victory
P
RISONERS at two North West prisons are hard at work preparing their competition entries for this year’s Southport Flower Show.
HMYOI Thorncross, winners of last year’s ‘Best in Show’ title, are hoping to continue their success at this year’s show, which runs from August 19 - 22. John Platt, Head of Learning and Skills at Thorncross, said: “We have been working on this year’s entry for some considerable time now. “The show’s theme of Coast has given us a nice brief to work to, and we are taking inspiration from our
beautiful North West coast line.” For over a decade now, there has been a HM Prison service show garden on display at Southport Flower Show. The link-up came when HMP Garden’s Manager, Keith Sowden, wanted to enter a garden as a collaboration between HMYOI Thorncross and HMP Kirkham, the idea being that the competition shows prisoners the practical values of teamwork, planning, project management, creativity and good oldfashioned graft. Mr Platt, who took over the running of the scheme when Mr Sowden retired last year, said the opportunity to learn
new skills was a huge motivator to prisoners: “It is not an easy process, and it takes a lot of hard work and time, but the buzz these lads get from seeing their garden take shape is immense. “The prisoners work voluntarily at weekends, always to strict deadlines, to make sure it all works and they are given a degree of responsibility to ensure they are all pulling in the same direction. Nobody wants to let the team down.” Around 30 Category D prisoners work on the project, all aged between 18 and 25. The prisoners are taken from Thorncross’ art, gardening and construction departments, and all have
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shown a great willingness to get the project off the ground. “They get a real sense of ownership from the project,” said Mr Platt. “They know that if they succeed then the sense of pride they will feel will be amazing, but they also know failure will be down to them. It’s a great incentive to work hard and put the hours in. “They just want to show people what they are capable of, and that they shouldn’t be written off just yet. “This year we are two members of staff down so the odds are against us winning again, but we have started early and the lads still have that desire to do well so don’t rule us out just yet.”
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Mediamix Supplement ● Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Introducing Our Restaurant Menu
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23
Mediamix Supplement ● Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Southport Flower Show 2010
Give your garden the ‘wow’ factor I
N days gone by, adding a bit of personality to your outdoor space simply meant putting up a bird feeder, cutting your hedges into an unusual shape or strategically placing a few garden gnomes around your lawn. Thankfully though things have moved on.
Take a wander around the show gardens at this year’s flower show and you’ll see it’s not just greenery that makes a garden impressive. Reflecting the way that gardens are now viewed as outdoor rooms as well as somewhere to entertain our friends and family, garden art has been growing in popularity during recent years. From striking statues to walls adorned with contemporary metal sculptures, statement water features and lighting, it’s a great way not only to add a bit of personality but also to create a focal point that brings the whole garden design together. Best of all, even those not blessed with green fingers can incorporate this trend into their garden – all you need is a bit of creativity and the time to visit as many garden centres as you can to see what’s out there and pick up some ideas. From simply adding a beautiful stone bird bath to your garden to creating an elegant centre-piece with a large fountain, a contemporary garden lamp or a traditional sundial, there’s no limit to what you can do with this trend. Southport Flower Show patron, Diarmuid Gavin, was one of the first
to incorporate garden art into his designs. The renowned Irish garden designer is known for his use of unusual materials in garden designs, indeed for the 2008 Chelsea Flower Show he came up with a garden design based on a fusion of children’s favourites Honey, I Shrunk the Kids and Roald Dahl featuring oversized steel daisies. Known as the maverick of the garden design world, Diarmuid is inspired by an eclectic and diverse range of influences. So if you fancy taking a leaf out of his book, to give your garden the wow-factor, get creative and use your garden as somewhere to express your personality. To make a contemporary style statement you could create a centrepiece with a large bronze Buddha statue. Alternatively if you fancy creating a tranquil oasis in your garden, you could install a statement
Japanese water garden to give your garden a bit of zen. If having a full-scale statue in your garden seems a little too much for your tastes, other ways you can incorporate a bit of art into your garden include using pots and planters to create a focal point. From striking contemporary granite and metal designs to reclaimed marble and stone for a vintage feel, there’s a huge range on the market to choose from. Garden art can be practical too. From quirky statuesque metal watering cans to statement garden furniture, such as a vintage reclaimed cast iron bench or a carved stone bench, to inject a bit of personality into your outside space. However you plan to inject a bit of personality into your garden, Southport Flower Show and your local garden centres are a great place to pick up some ideas.
● Quirky features add to a garden’s charms. Top left, Porky Piglet Watering Can, top right, Decorative Bird Garland and above, West Lodge Fountain Pictures: www.strawberryfool.com; www.velvetbrown.co.uk; www.haddonstone.com
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24
Southport Flower Show 2010
Mediamix Supplement ● Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Humble houseplant makes a comeback B
ACK in the good old days, it was hard to find a house without a fern or spider plant taking pride of place in the living room.
● Humid conditions in a kitchen can be great for houseplants
Yet sadly, our love for the humble houseplant seemed to subside, and over years, the nation lost interest in these family favourites. But at last it seems that the houseplant is back where it well and truly belongs! As according to many garden centres, sales of houseplants have been surging and are now one of the fastest growing gardening trends in Britain. A great hobby for all levels of gardener, houseplants are a brilliant way to brighten up any home and as well as homeowners with gardens they're also are great for those who don't have much outdoor space or live in apartments. So what's the best way to start? Growing and maintaining houseplants successfully can be quite tricky, especially for beginners, so it can be helpful to invest in tried and tested varieties like Crassula, Peace Lily, Yuccas, Moth Orchids and trailing Pothos. Renowned for their hardiness
and low levels of maintenance, classic plants like these are a good way to test out your green fingers as well as assess how much time you'll have to spend on them. They’re ideal for anyone looking to revisit old skills or buy their first houseplant. Bear in mind what room you'll want to put them in too, as certain plants are best suited to particular conditions. For instance, Cacti, Aloe and Mother-in-Law's Tongue thrive in hot, sunny rooms like conservatories. Meanwhile Ferns, Ivy and Dragontrees that come from the jungle prefer darker, cool parts of the house. Even simple tasks like taking plants home can be tricky, and it's important to keep them warm as just half an hour in the cold can be fatal for more temperamental plants like African Violets. And it's for this reason that it's highly recommended to buy plants with care labels giving detailed instructions on how to look after them. Once at home and you've researched how to look after your new addition, give plants chance to acclimatise to its new surroundings before watering or
feeding. Generally speaking it's best to keep the room temperature to around a steady 65F, and humid conditions in bathrooms and kitchens can also be ideal for many houseplants. Just make sure you keep an eye on watering. Over-watering is the number one killer for UK houseplants – and while each plant is different – a general rule of thumb is to only water when it looks like the compost has almost dried out and keep soil damp (not wet). Light is also an important factor for any healthy plant. For those with green foliage poorlylit conditions can be better, while plants with colourful flowers will thrive in lighter positions. Spotlights should also be kept at a distance (of at least six foot) to avoid scorch marks and during the dark winter days, nearly all house plants will benefit from artificial lighting in the evenings. So if you're thinking about enhancing your home, why not buy a few houseplants? With a wonderful selection of appealing plants to choose between there's something to suit every home.
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Mediamix Supplement ● Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Southport Flower Show 2010 ● Fresh, flavoursome and environmentally friendly, growing your own fruit and vegetables is rising in popularity
● Left, useful advice on everything from pruning to planting, and above, a handy compost bin Photos: The Gifted Penguin and GettingPersonal.co.uk
A taste of the good life
A
S we all become more aware of our carbon footprint and the origins of our food, it stands to good reason that ‘grow your own’ is one of the biggest gardening trends of 2010.
According to the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) there’s been a massive rise in demand for membership of garden and allotment clubs in 2010 as people look to grow their own fruit and vegetables in a bid to save cash in the current climate and eat fresh. It’s easier than you might think to get a taste of ‘The Good Life’ too, as many home and garden stores now stock everything you need to grow your own, ranging from simple seed sets and planters which you can use to cultivate a herb garden, to tomato plants you simply have to decant into a bigger pot or, for the more green-
fingered, you could even create a vegetable patch in a corner of your garden. If you’re considering growing your own, first things first you need to look after your soil, remove perennial weeds and add compost to the soil to ensure it’s packed with nutrients for your fruit and veg. With your soil now in good condition, you need to decide what you are going to grow and where. As most people won’t have the room to grow everything they want or need, the RHS advises taking the cost into consideration. For example, potatoes and onions are relatively cheap to buy but take up a lot of room to grow, whereas leeks are more expensive to buy but take up less room. You also need to consider the type of soil you’ve got and, when choosing which fruit and veg to plant, you
need to think about how much time you want to spend tending to your crops. If you’re planning to start growing your own, savoy cabbage, kale, spinach, radishes, turnips and hardy varieties of lettuce can all be sown in August, ready for winter harvest. Even those with limited outdoor space like an apartment balcony or just a paved back yard, can grow their own as there’s a huge range of fruit and vegetables that you can grow in pots. Consider planting fresh herbs in a pot to add an extra-special touch to your cooking; growing tomatoes, strawberries, lettuce or potatoes in tubs, or creating a raised bed in one corner of your garden to use as a mini vegetables patch. So whether you’re keen to save cash, eat fresh or be more environmentally friendly, why not give grow your own a go today?
The tools of the trade
IF you’re new to the world of gardening, it can be hard to know exactly what tools and equipment you are going to need to transform your garden into a horticultural haven. So to help all you novice gardeners bloom, here are some of the essentials...
●A good lawnmower will keep your lawn lush and sharp hedge shears are essential Picture: Jupiter Images and Beth Stevens
● A watering can is a must-have, and right, protect your hands with a set of gardening gloves Pictures: Beth Stevens and Angelic Hen
26
Mediamix Supplement ● Wednesday, August 11, 2010
S. SPENCER LANDSCAPES Block & Flag Paving Ponds & Water Features, Walls, Fencing & Turfing, Garden Clearance, Jet Wash & Refurbishment 23 years experience qualified & insured FREE QUOTES
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Mediamix Supplement ● Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Southport Flower Show 2010
Plant a haven for the birds and bees
N
EVER underestimate the significance of your back garden. There are 15 million gardens in the UK, covering about 270,000 hectares, which is more than the area of all the national Nature Reserves in the UK put together.
So when it comes to wildlife preservation we can all take up the challenge and get involved. By planning your garden so you attract wildlife, not only are you creating a beautiful oasis for birds and animals to enjoy, you are actually helping to preserve some of the most endangered species on the planet at the same time. So where should you begin? Many butterfly and moth species have declined in number in recent years, so planting flowers and plants to attract butterflies is a great start. Butterflies need sugary sources of energy like nectar and will travel surprisingly long distances to search for the right feeding and breeding site. Generally, both native and nonnative flowers are suitable as nectar sources for butterflies. What is important is that the nectar should be accessible – simple, shallow flowers are best, as butterflies cannot reach the nectar in deep flowers (such as foxgloves). You should also be wary of double flowers, as many of these are sterile, scentless and do not have any nectar.
You can group flowers to create a ‘butterfly border’. The ideal location is in a sheltered, sunny spot, and it is important to ensure there will be flowers in spring and autumn, as well as the summer. These include, for spring, aubretia, bluebell, crocus and primrose; for summer, dandelion, knapweed, lavender, sweet william, marigold and toadflax; and for autumn, buddleia, michelmas daisy and yarrow. Leaving some areas of long grass and seedheads will provide essential sites for grass- feeding butterflies. It is well documented there has been a decline in the number of bumble bees in this country, and people are being encouraged to grow flowers in order to attract bees throughout spring and summer to provide essential nectar and pollen. Exotic and highly cultivated garden flowers are largely unsuitable, as they either produce little pollen and nectar or keep it really well hidden from the bees. The best plants to offer bees are often cottage garden flowers and native flowers. The best summer flowers for attracting bees are cornflower, hollyhock, red clover, sea holly and sunflowers. If you want to attract birds into your garden, make sure you put food out all year round, not just in the winter, and a bird bath is also a nice finishing touch, but make sure you keep it clean and fresh.
● Growing flowers in a 'butterfly border' will help encourage butterflies to feed and breed in your back garden
Dobbies – the garden experts
Enjoy a gorgeous garden in an instant with a helping hand from Dobbies. Choose from one of the biggest and best ranges of quality plants and gardening equipment around with friendly expert advice, a 5 year plant guarantee and great value offers to help you get the most from your garden. Or try our free specialist container planting service to create your own individual look without even getting your hands dirty. Save even more when you join Dobbies Gardening Club with 10% off all full price plants every day. Membership is only £12 per annum in-store or £10 when you join online.*
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