Spring INTO ACTION! 20 - Horticultural Trades Association
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PAG E NAME
Spring
INTO ACTION!
with spring colour & spring planting
PAG E 1 4
4 20 30
Putting biosecurity at the heart Technology: a disruptor or an What makes you
of the horticultural trade opportunity? unique?
March 2019 Issue
Find us on Facebook | www.hta.org.uk | March 2019 £4.50
1
www.hta.org.uk
PAG E NAME Image by GAP Gardens - the leading supplier of botanical images. HTA members are offered Email info@gapphotos.com or call 01376 571283 for your image needs. 20% off their first order “Great images sell more plants!” and 10% off thereafter 2 March 2019 | www.hta.org.uk | Follow us on Twitter @HTAnews
Welcome to
March 2019 issue Featured
4 Putting biosecurity at the heart
of the horticultural trade
Comment 14
W
Spring into action with spring
colour and spring planting
elcome to the March issue of HTA News and hopefully the
start of a great Spring season for the garden industry! In times 20 Technology: a disruptor or an
opportunity?
of economic uncertainty, the garden industry has in the past
shown some resilience as consumers retreat to the safety of
their homes but remain willing to spend money on enjoying 30 What makes you unique?
them. Faced with our looming exit from the EU, gardening is well placed to
provide a relatively inexpensive way for consumers to enjoy life whilst we
weather the economic storm. 12 Grower News
This issue includes a report on the Healthy plants, healthy business event that
took place at Horticulture House at the end of January – see page 25. It proved 16 Landscaper News
to be an extremely informative day bringing together key players on plant
health and biosecurity and we were delighted that Lord Gardiner of Kimble,
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Rural Affairs and Biosecurity and
Meet the team
Prof. Nicola Spence, Defra Chief Plant Health Officer were able to join us to open HTA Editorial Team: Gill Ormrod,
the day. Angela Bean, Amanda Wallace,
The event also saw the launch of the Plant Health Management Standard Amy Winder & Jazmin Lyel
and the Plant Healthy website which includes a free self-assessment tool for
Design: Yellowball
businesses to use to see where they are on their own plant health journey.
Please visit www.planthealthy.org.uk for further details. We will be spreading the Printed by: Buxton Press
word across the industry and encouraging all to sign up and demonstrate their
commitment to plant health and biosecurity. Advertising : Tim Bell
Plant health is just one of our key areas of focus and the latest policy update T: 07808 775 177 E: tim.bell@hta.org.uk
on page 9 provides a snapshot of some of the other areas that we are currently
working on to ensure that the voice of the industry is heard. As you will see
from consultations and business rates to access to labour and phytosanitary
Get in touch
certificates it is an extremely active portfolio that is continually being added HTA News, Horticultural
to. Please do regularly visit the HTA website – www.hta.org.uk for the Trades Association
latest updates. Horticulture House, Chilton
Didcot, Oxfordshire, OX11 0RN
Don’t forget that this year’s Garden Re-Leaf Day takes place on Friday 22
March and the industry is encouraged to join in helping to raise vital funds for T: 0333 003 3550
Greenfingers. Since its inception in 2012, Garden Re-Leaf Day has raised an E: htanews@hta.org.uk
amazing £600,000 for the creation of gardens designed to enhance the lives of If you would like to reproduce anything
children with life-limiting conditions. There are so many ways to get involved from HTA news please contact the HTA
–HTA we will be entering a team for the sponsored walk. Visit News team for permission. While every
the Greenfingers website at www.greenfingerscharity. care is taken that all information inside the
org.uk/gardenreleaf for further details and ideas magazine is correct, prices and details may
about getting involved. be subject to change. The HTA reserves
the right to shorten or modify material
submitted for publication. The HTA takes
no responsibility for claims made in
Martin Simmons advertisements or advertisement features
in the magazine.
DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS
| www.hta.org.uk | March 2019 3
N E WS
Are you Plant Healthy? audits which will be available once
the Plant Health Assurance Scheme is
Putting biosecurity at the heart of launched later in 2019. Currently the
HTA is working with the Plant Health
the horticultural trade Biosecurity Steering Committee to set
T
up governance structures and appoint
he new Plant Healthy website provides a self-assessment tool certification bodies, that will independently audit businesses. When
for horticulture businesses and organisations to improve the the scheme is ready, and once successfully audited, a business will
biosecurity of sourcing systems and advance plant health receive an assurance certificate enabling them to demonstrate
management practises. that robust plant health management practises are integral to
The free tool, launched at the sell-out Healthy Plants, Healthy their operations.
Business conference, organised by the HTA and in association with HTA Horticulture Manager Alistair Yeomans comments, “We are
APHA, is available at: planthealthy.org.uk pleased to be working with the Plant Health Biosecurity Steering
The tool is based on the recently published Plant Health Group, government, NGOs and businesses to develop the Plant
Management Standard (PHMS) – an initiative that Grown in Britain Health Management Standard. Threats from exotic pests and
and the Horticultural Trades Association (HTA) have been working diseases present a great threat to our industry and the wider
hard to advance, along with many other organisations. countryside. As such it is essential that organisations work in a
The tool is a self-assessment questionnaire which enables a coordinated way to reduce the risk of environmental damage from
business’ current plant health practises to be measured against these harmful organisms.”
the PHMS. It will assist businesses to check that they are fulfilling Plant health and biosecurity were the key topics of the day at the
statutory obligations; understand pest and disease threats; and set HTA Healthy Plants, Healthy Business conference, in association with
out a plant health policy. APHA, which took place at Horticulture House in Oxfordshire on 29
The tool is intended to help businesses prepare for independent January 2019. Read the event report on page 25.
Garden centres urged New Product Showcase
to sign-up and support winners for Glee at Spring fair
Garden Re-Leaf day on
T
he second annual Glee at Spring Fair New Product Showcase
Awards was the centre of much industry buzz as the ‘best in
Friday 22 March show’ were selected by a panel of industry experts, with the
winners being celebrated in a special awards ceremony.
G
This year’s judging panel was made up of Trevor Pfeiffer of Garden
arden centres across the UK are being
Trade News, Simon Bourne from Perrywood Garden Centre, Romeo
encouraged to take part in Garden Re-Leaf
Sommers, Glee’s Retail Lab Creative Director, Garden Retail Success’,
Day – the gardening industry’s equivalent
Steve Myatt, and Cameron Whitworth of Baytree Garden Centre.
of Comic Relief day – on Friday 22 March and raise vital funds
Together the judges selected five products, all recognised for their
for Greenfingers Charity, the national charity that creates magical
unique designs, saleability and innovative approach to bringing to
gardens for children’s hospices.
market products that will drive profits in the coming seasons.
Greenfingers’ Director of Fundraising & Communications, Linda
Creative Products scooped this year’s top prize with Fly Away.
Petrons said: “We’re issuing a rallying call to every garden centre
The judges remarked upon Fly Away’s ability to tap into the al fresco
in the UK to participate in Garden Re-Leaf Day 2019. As a result of
dining trend, and how it will also appeal to the millennial market
previous years’ events, life-limited children and their families have
with its insect friendly credentials.
been able to share precious time together in Greenfingers gardens at
Toronto Steak Grill from Tepro took second place. An ideal Father’s
hospices. It’s easy to sign up and take part in organised activities and
Day gift, or just a great way for urban gardeners with limited space to
we urge the industry to come together and support our mission to
cook outside, this product was a highly deserving runner-up in 2019.
design and build beautiful gardens for play, therapy and relaxation.”
Creative Products’ Mighty Little Digger scooped the third-place
For more information about Garden Re-Leaf Day 2019, and for runner up prize.
details of how to take part, visit www.greenfingerscharity.org.uk/ Fourth place was awarded to the Three-Hour Heat Box from
gardenreleaf Dizmezs. of heat distribution, and was praised for its convenience
and excellent value for money.
Taking home ‘fifth place’ was the William Morris range
from Woodlodge.
4 March 2019 | www.hta.org.uk | Follow us on Twitter @HTAnews
N E WS
RBIS Midlands Group
visit Westland
Horticulture
T
here was strong attendance for the first Retail
Business Improvement Scheme (RBIS) Midlands
group meeting held at the end of January, kindly
hosted by Westland Horticulture and organised and
chaired by garden centre retail specialist Andy Campbell.
This provided members with the opportunity to talk about
Christmas trading – exchanging ideas and learning from
each other to feed into their Christmas 2019 planning.
The meeting included visits to Westland’s Alconbury
production facility and Peterborough distribution depot
and showroom with presentations from Keith Nicholson
and Nick Davies on Westland, Crest and Gardman integration.
Social Farms & Gardens and This provided the group with a better understanding of what is
involved in bringing new products to market as well as what is
Thrive selected to expand involved in supplying garden centres. It also helped members
appreciate the diversity and scale of the supply chain for
and transform care farming gardening products.
HTA Business Improvement schemes have helped many
across England members to grow and improve their business over the years.
S
It’s aimed at retailers with a turnover of less than £2m - and
ocial Farms & Gardens, working with Thrive, have today been many members turn over less than this – but there are no
selected to expand and transform care farming services across restrictions on size or scale of business. There are currently 5
England and ultimately help improve the mental health of HTA Retail Business Improvement Schemes around the country,
disadvantaged children and adults with defined needs, by bringing working with garden retailers of various turnovers and stages of
them closer to nature. development. They meet up to 6 times a year. If you want to try
The £1.4m Growing Care Farming project will run across all nine before you join, the first meeting is always free of charge.
English regions and will create more opportunities for both children
and adults to attend care farms, where they will access health, Find out more about the benefits of joining an RBIS group at:
social and specialist educational care services while experiencing www.hta.org.uk/learn-develop/academy/business-
the natural environment in new ways. Therapeutic activities vary improvement-schemes.html
between care farms but typically include looking after livestock and
growing crops and plants.
APL supports Perennial
in their Lifeline Garden
at Chelsea 2019
P
erennial returns to the RHS Chelsea Flower Show in May
2019 with a Great Pavilion garden designed by first time
Chelsea designers Colm Joseph and Duncan Cargill. They
will be working with APL and APL members, Conquest Spaces.
Inspired by Sir Roy Strong’s autobiographical The Laskett
Gardens, the Perennial Lifeline Garden helps mark Perennial’s
180th anniversary this year and highlights the long-standing and
ever-evolving role of Perennial in supporting everyone working
in and retired from horticulture.
| www.hta.org.uk | March 2019 5
N E WS
Ecogen recycling celebrates “...to help garden centres and
growers manage their waste
time convenient to us and
drop off at the centre with
its 1 year anniversary as HTA streams more effectively
minimal fuss.
This arrangement
from both environmental and
Preferred Partner financial perspectives.”
certainly suits us very well
and saves having material
S
around awaiting collection
ince the launch of the HTA Partnership with Ecogen Recycling and we feel assured that the plastic is highly likely to be recycled ‘’
in March 2018 over 1000 tonnes of waste has been recycled. We asked Ecogen how they felt the partnership was going and
This has included plastic pots, trays , shrink wrap, compost James Lewis of Ecogen replied “We co-created this scheme with
bags, paper and cardboard. This amount has been achieved with a the HTA to help garden centres and growers manage their waste
relatively small number of HTA members taking part so far, so with streams more effectively from both environmental and financial
your support, imagine how big this could be . perspectives. Historically cardboard and shrink-wrap are the two
Adam Wigglesworth of Aylett Nurseries said “Aylett Nurseries have common materials this industry wastes however we also require
arranged for Ecogen to make several collections a year of baled polypropylene and polystyrene plant pots and trays for recycling
recyclable material including cardboard, plastic plant trays, plastic into other applications such as; garden furniture or picture frames.
pots and plastic film, totalling 32 tonnes per annum, typically. The I am delighted with the reaction from HTA members so far, most
collections are well organised and payment for the waste is prompt. have contacted us with environmental motivations and have gone
The environmental benefits are a reduction in the amount of waste away realising real financial benefits from reducing their landfill
sent to landfill and the use of the recyclable materials to make other bill. Ecogen’s business is driven by the number of tonnes we recycle
products. The financial benefits are savings on skip costs as well so I am looking forward to seeing how things progress as the word
as receiving income for the recyclable waste. It is a ‘win, win, spreads in 2019.”
win situation’’
Peter Blakey from Plants Limited said “Since discovering the HTA
/ Ecogen partnership last year we have used this facility to recycle For more information on how you can recycle
all our mixed used pots and trays that were uneconomic for us with Ecogen visit ecogenrecycling.co.uk
to consider re-using again on the Nursery. This has been a very or call 01962 732296
convenient arrangement for us as we can load up the material at a
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6 March 2019 | www.hta.org.uk | Follow us on Twitter @HTAnews
MARCH
PAG E NAME
Houseplant
of the Month
Lily
Photo credit: Thejoyofplants.co.uk
T
he lily (Lilium) is a real feature in the home thanks to its
beautifully coloured flowers that sometimes also have an
exquisite fragrance. The potted lily is characterised by the
long buds on the stem and the leaf that grows along the whole stem.
The choice of colours with potted lilies is extensive: from red, yellow,
orange and pink through to bi-coloured cultivars and pastel shades.
POTTED LILY RANGE
The range of potted lilies is growing. Well known varieties come from
the Asiatic Group, often with brightly coloured flowers, and from
the Oriental Group, with large flowers with a strong scent.
In addition, there are double-flowered lilies in pink
and white, without pollen and with a light sweet
fragrance. There are also compact varieties
in pink or white with round leaves and
a light fragrance.
SALES AND DISPLAY
FOR POTTED LILIES
Keep the base simple (potted lilies look
fantastic in black or white pots) and
display the plants at different heights to
give a lively look. Keep the bright colours
and the pastels together, use white lilies
as the linking factor to maintain a sense of
coherence. Because the plants are sold to the
customer in bud, accompanying image material
showing potted lilies in bloom can provide extra inspiration
for buying. Remind customers that after its lavish flowering the plant
is ‘finished’ and the bulb can be planted in the garden.
7 FindMarch 2019 | www.hta.org.uk |
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TO P T IPS
Tips for smaller retailers
These tips are based on other retailer’s
experiences, and cover a wide variety of topics.
We hope that you find them useful and that
they’re of value to you and your business.
HELP YOUR CUSTOMERS TO FIND YOU signage around your store (like Henry Street Garden centre, pictured)
Help customers find you by setting up a free Google My Business to advertise health benefits of plants to your customers.
account, so your business can easily be found when someone
searches for you or a garden centre near them online. You can show ESTABLISH YOUR POINT OF DIFFERENCE
customers your opening hours, location and phone number. It really
is quick and easy to set up and gives your business a professional Garden Retail Success business consultants often ask garden centres
online presence, perfect for attracting new customers. It also enables “If a gardener had a choice of three garden centres to shop in your
new customers to get directions straight to your door. area why would they choose yours?” What is your Point of Difference?
They reported receiving answers such as good range; good quality;
It will take less than 5 minutes to create a basic listing!
friendly staff. As important as they are, they don’t set you apart; they
are not points of distinction.
SELLING HOUSE PLANTS
Points of Difference are
Our market research results have shown that
• Tangible – something that is clearly obvious in a physical way
houseplants continue to rise in popularity year
and can be measured in a financial way
on year. Emphasising the potential of house
• An increased benefit, making shopping easier for a large number
plants to improve customer health and wellbeing
of customers
is an extra incentive for purchase. There has
• Unique – quite different from anything offered by competitors,
been an increase in consumer awareness of a
making you stand out.
need to look after their mental as well as physical
Customers have many choices where to buy products for their
wellbeing, accompanied by an increase in
garden or to decorate their home. If they can’t see any major benefit
popularity for solutions to reduce stress, enable
for shopping with you then their decision is likely to be based on
relaxation, and to help improve mood and
price not value.
sleep quality.
If you offer something that makes shopping hassle-free, satisfying,
Clean air is another hot topic, with diesel
inspirational or rewarding there’s a chance of you being remembered
fumes making headlines, and the launch of new devices that will
for it and you can compete more effectively and profitably without
monitor air quality inside your home. Plants are a great solution, and
having to sacrifice margin.
known to ‘clean up’ the air thanks to a study from NASA, which found
If you deliver on your Point of Difference, people associate you with
that some indoor plants were effective at filtering out toxins from the
it, you become known for it over time and they keep coming back.
air. Increasing awareness could help stimulate purchases, so put up
Look out for more
tips for smaller
retailers in the
next issue of HTA
news. More advice
can also be found
on our website by
searching for Small
Retailer Tips on
hta.org.uk
8 March 2019 | www.hta.org.uk | Follow us on Twitter @HTAnews
PO LI CY
Policy In the summary below HTA Policy Executive Sally Cullimore provides an update on some of the
current activities.
update MINISTERIAL MEETINGS
In a joint meeting at the end of January HTA Chairman James Barnes, along with Sue Biggs,
Director General of the RHS met with George Eustice MP, Minister of State (DEFRA). The meeting
Policy and lobbying activities gave the Minister the chance to hear how the recent work in evaluating the size of the industry
resulted in the well-received report by Oxford Economics, “The economic impact of the
are a key area for the HTA.
horticulture industry on the economy of the UK”. The Minister welcomed the figures from the
As an association we need report, as it now means the Government truly understands the significant size of the sector.
to be at the forefront of We can now start work on jointly developing strategic priorities for job creation in the industry
while delivering improved environmental outcomes for the UK.
political lobbying on behalf
Discussions were had around financial provisions in the Agriculture Bill, increasing UK
of members and to cooperate production capacity, research and development opportunities and cross-Whitehall support
and communicate with other for horticulture.
In March we will be meeting with Kate Forbes, MSP. Kate is Minister for Public Finance and
industry representative bodies
the Digital Economy. We have been invited to Holyrood to discuss business rates and recent
to achieve a coordinated problems with the appeals process in Scotland, plus other business related issues that affect
approach to the issues that members, such as the proposed workplace parking levy.
face us.
GOVERNMENT ENGAGEMENT
Ornamental Horticulture Roundtable Group (OHRG)
We are a high profile member of the OHRG, working alongside the RHS, BALI, the Arboriculture
Association and the NFU to work with AHDB and DEFRA to effect change in Government which
SOME OF THE AREAS benefits the ornamental horticulture industry. The OHRG runs several sub-groups, one of
THAT WE ARE CURRENTLY which, the Commercial sub-group, is chaired by the HTA. The Commercial Group has several
WORKING ON INCLUDE: objectives, all closely aligned with HTA objectives. One is to create opportunities from within
Government for scaling up production by exploring financial assistance mechanisms. Others
Government – Legislation; are around peat and responsible sourcing and plant health and biosecurity. Other subgroups
Government Policy; Consultations; cover research and development opportunities and careers and skills.
Grants & Incentives
Environment – Resources; DEFRA
Sustainability; Clean Air; Water;
Biodiversity HTA representatives actively take part in and provide advice to several Government initiatives
and sectors. We engage mainly with DEFRA, meeting regularly with, for example, the Tree
Plant Health – Assurance Scheme;
Health Policy Group, the Food and Drink (Horticulture) Panel, the Plant Health Advisory Forum
Crop Protection; Pests & Diseases;
and Pesticides Regulations. Especially active now are the EU Exit teams across a number of
Phytosanitary Certificates
departments. HTA is involved in discussions on import regimes, preparing for a no deal Brexit,
Supply Chain – Imports; Exports; plant variety rights, water use within the industry, traceability, shaping legislation pertinent to
Compliance; Traceability; Plant our industry and invasive non-native species amongst other subjects.
Passports
Business –Tax & VAT; Retailing;
SUSTAINABILITY - PLASTIC PLANT POT CAMPAIGN
Business Rates; Supply Contracts;
BOPP Scheme We have joined RECOUP (Recycling of Used Plastics) to work on a campaign to ensure
Labour – Access to Labour; Casual non-black plastic plant pots, specifically the industry-led taupe pot, get taken into kerbside
Workers; Careers Promotion; recycling campaigns by Local Authorities (LAs). The aim is to get LAs who currently do not
Education; Skills accept plant pots to change their consumer guidelines to include non-black plant pots in
kerbside recycling. LAs sometimes think of plant pots being black in colour only, and therefore
Brexit – touches on all the above
not able to go through waste processing facilities. The campaign will include a seminar around
plastics recycling and a visit to an MRF (Materials Recycling / Recovery Facility) to view plastics
recycling in practice alongside direct communications with LAs and MRFs.
For the latest updates please visit www.hta.org.uk and subscribe to the weekly HTA eNews
bulletin by emailing htanews@hta.org.uk
Find us on Facebook | www.hta.org.uk | March 2019 9
OV E R THE GARDEN F E NC E
NEWS in brief Squire’s Garden Centre in
West Horsley has a stylish
new look for the Café Bar
The licensed Café Bar offers menus to
meet a range of dietary needs with a
wide selection of freshly prepared food,
including hot and cold meals. There is also
a newly built pavilion with retractable roof
and climate control that is also available
for event hire for up to thirty people.
Squire’s Café Bar is open from 9am to 5pm
Monday to Saturday, and 10am to 4.30pm
on Sundays, serving breakfast, lunch and
afternoon tea.
Briers acquired by Smart Garden
Smart Garden Products has announced the
purchase of the Briers business and assets from
administrator Duff & Phelps.
“The business was short of cashflow and
their directors were trying to find a buyer for
some months without success. We came in at Bents Garden & Home, Cheshire, awarded UK’s Best
the end of this process with an acceptable offer Destination Garden Centre 2018/19
and managed to complete very quickly.” – Paris
It is the second consecutive year that the family owned and run business has been
Natar, Smart’s Chairman
presented with the prestigious title by the Garden Centre Association (GCA) - which
comprises over 190 members - and the 6th time the Centre has held the award.
GardeningforDisabled @Garden4Disabled
Did you know an hour weeding in the garden could use up to
300 calories? Gardening is good for exercise and well-being
Tweet us at #garden #mentalhealth #Diet #exercise #Health
@HTAnews
Oliver Johnson @oliver_agronomy
Some Leicestershire Surge Winter Barley looking well going
into Spring. Nice to have the sun beating down on my back
today too! #agrovista #syngentaseeds
Myerscough College @My_Apprentice
Loads of Have a Go activities and a busy start on the
@MyerscoughColl Stand at the Blackpool Careers event
@Pleasure_Beach #skills #careers #landbased #advice
#guidance
10 March 2019 | www.hta.org.uk | Follow us on Twitter @HTAnewsPAG
OV EE
R NAME
THE GARDEN F E NC E
IN THE PRESS
Our media team regularly receive enquiries from newspapers, magazines, TV shows, radio
and the like about all aspects of horticulture and gardening. Here is a snap shot of our
latest cuttings to give you a flavour of the topics that are currently in the news.
National Garden Gift Vouchers were picked up by rhs.org.uk, The HTA gained a coverage of 4.7 million after being mentioned
Blackmore Vale Magazine and primarytimes.net in the search in various outlets, including telegraph.co.uk, Grand Designs
for the next generation of star gardeners. and BBC Gardeners World.
By 2029 it is predicted that 94% of 55-64 year
DID YOU olds will own smartphones.
KNOW? Find out more about how technology is shaping consumer behaviour in our Market Information feature on page 21.
Source: FF Online, Foresight Factory (2018)
National Weed Appreciation Day, March 28!
This month why not remind your customers the benefits of weeds they find in their gardens!
Some weeds are beneficial to us and our ecosystem. Dandelions - A food source for insects and some birds. Purslane - It
is an excellent source of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Lamb’s Quarter seeds – A source of protein and vitamin A.
Use #Weedappreciationday on twitter.
PEOPLE & prizes
Fargro employees have passed their exams making them full
qualified members of the BASIS professional register
SBM Life Science Ltd has appointed Nick Walton as the new Head of Business
for the UK and Ireland.
Bransford Webbs latest apprentices. Isobel Watson and Amelia Broome
began the new level three horticultural technician apprenticeship last year.
Find us on Facebook | www.hta.org.uk | March 2019 1111G R OW ER NEWS
Gediflora, Belgium, wins Bernard Oosterom, President of AIPH commented: “The 2019
IGOTY Awards provide an opportunity to put a spotlight on the best
AIPH International Grower of in our industry, showing the world the quality businesses that exist.
This year’s event was another extremely enjoyable occassion!” The
the Year 2019 awards are held alongside IPM Essen, each year, and attract a list of
global industry players.
The AIPH IGOTY 2019 Awards were supported by headline sponsor
Gediflora, Belgium has been awarded the Royal FloraHolland, founding partner FloraCulture International,
accolade of International Grower of the Year venue partner IPM Essen and sponsors Pöppelmann, Kuehne + Nagel,
(IGOTY) 2019 by the International Association Florensis, GreenTech and Flormart.
Entry to The International Grower of the Year Awards 2020 will be
of Horticultural Producers (AIPH). open from March – July 2019.
G
ediflora won the coveted ‘Gold Rose’ award, presented by
Steven van Schilfgaarde of Royal FloraHolland, and were also
Gold award winners in the ‘Young Plants’ category at the AIPH
IGOTY Awards in January 2019 at IPM Essen, Germany. The awards,
now in their tenth year, are held annually to celebrate excellence and
best practice in ornamentals production.
Overall winner Gediflora is a breeder and propagator of potted
Chrysanthemums. Now a third generation business, it services more
than 30 countries and has over 50% market share in Europe, 30%
in the US and 40% worldwide. The company’s mission is to make
growers successful with their ‘golden genetics’ which produce a wide
and innovative variety of easy-to-grow ball-shaped mums.
The AIPH IGOTY Jury, comprised of six internationally renowned
horticulture experts chaired by AIPH Vice-President Tim Edwards,
said “Gediflora excels in its field and is true to its motto: ‘Dream,
dare, do and do better’. As a worldwide leading specialist in For more information on the AIPH International
Chrysanthemums this business demonstrates outstanding Grower of the Year (IGOTY) Awards visit:
innovation and production and is a reliable and inspiring partner www.aiph.org/groweroftheyear
for growers.”
Two New Additions to the Transport
Team at Provender Nurseries
Provender Nurseries has welcomed Sharon
Bowden to their transport team. Sharon is
taking on a new role as transport administrator,
arranging delivery schedules, liaising with
customers and overseeing the general running of
the transport fleet.
A
nother addition to the transport team is a new truck that
is compliant with the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) for
central London that becomes law in April 2019. ULEZ is being
Provender Nurseries transport department can be
introduced to improve air quality and all vehicles entering specified
reached directly on 01322 611 694. zones will need to be compliant from the 8 April. At present the ULEZ
will cover the same area as the Congestion Charging Zone until 2021.
12 March 2019 | www.hta.org.uk | Follow us on Twitter @HTAnewsG R OW ER NEWS
Ball Colegrave is thrilled to re-launch
Impatiens to the UK horticultural
industry.
Impatiens Beacon™ offers season-long performance and brings
back fast-filling colour to the garden ... without the disease risk!
Since the widespread outbreak of impatiens downy mildew some
years ago, many growers and retailers hesitated to stock this key
bedding plant.
T
hrough devoted breeding efforts, our sister breeding company PanAmerican Seed has
developed Beacon™ a new Impatiens that is highly resistant to downy mildew.
“Growers, retailers and home gardeners have been waiting for the chance to bring
impatiens back…without the risk”, says Sandy Shepherd, Ball Colegrave MD.
In the spirit of bringing light – and happiness – back to gardens all over the world, a
donation ofa portion of Beacon™ Impatiens global sales will be made to The OI Foundation.
Looking ahead to show is weather resistant, flowers all summer
and will be a great addition to retail plant
flowers all summer, withstands -3 degrees
centigrade temperatures and could match
introductions… benches. Other introductions to the general the six million plant sales of the downy
market featuring on Peter’s exhibit include: mildew-resistant Impatiens ‘Imara’ that
Among the new plants to be launched at • Florist VB’s Gerbera ‘Sweet Sunset’ Syngenta launched in 2018.
the RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2019 are: • Hilverda Koij’s Alstroemeria Seabrook said the plant looks more like
A clematis from Thorncroft Clematis named ‘Summer Red’ a petunia than a calibrachoa and has large
after the Duchess of Sussex, Meghan Markle • Begonia ‘Bounty’ from Kerley flowers and is “to my eye pretty unique”.
named in celebration of the royal wedding • Nemesia ‘Lady Penelope’ bred by At June’s BBC Gardeners World Live
last year. This plant produces purply-red Martine Tellwright Seabrook will show a pyramid of all four
summer flowers in abundance in May-June • Dryopteris ‘Jurassic Gold’ from Seiont colours of the BeautiCal.
and again from late July-September. • Pittosporum tenuifolium ‘Silver Ball’, a Thompson & Morgan, Suttons and
Hardy’s Cottage Garden Plants will be box replacement. Marshalls are among stockists and the
launching three new long flowering plant will be available at garden centres
perennials at Chelsea nationwide.
• Digitalis ‘Firebird’ using the best Seabrook has said that exclusive plant
traits from Digitalis ‘purpurea’ and launches can be the “kiss of death” for new
‘canariensis’ plants because if a potential customer asks
• Salvia ‘Amethyst Lips’ – a bi-coloured for them at a retailer that does not stock
purple and white flowered, shrubby them, the retailer is likely to recommend
Perennial that is a relative of Salvia something else and say it is better than the
‘Hot Lips’ exclusive plant, which they do not have.
• Dianthus ‘Cherry Burst - bred by SALVIA AMETHYST LIPS FROM HARDY’S COTTAGE At GWL, Seabrook will launch to the
GARDEN PLANTS
Whetman Plants International. general market Florist VB’s Gerbera ‘Sweet
Sunset’, Hilverda Koij’s Alstroemeria
Garden writer Peter Seabrook says could be
Gardening correspondent Peter Seabrook ‘Summer Red’, Begonia ‘Bounty’ from
the introduction of the year
will be showcasing a pyramid of all four Kerley, Nemesia ‘Lady Penelope’ bred by
colours of Sakata’s Petunia x calibrachoa BEAUTICAL Martine Tellwright, Dryopteris ‘Jurassic
BeautiCal at BBC Gardeners’ World Live in Gold’ from Seiont and Pittosporum
Seabrook said the plant is a breeding tenuifolium ‘Silver Ball’, a box replacement.
June. The plant is a breeding breakthrough,
breakthrough and is weather-resistant,
Find us on Facebook | www.hta.org.uk | March 2019 13PAG E NAME
GARDENING IS
GOOD FOR YOU!
MARCH
Our ‘Gardening is
Good for You’ campaign
reveals just how good
gardening is for everyone with
monthly themed articles, written
by gardening consultant and
journalist Adam Pasco.
March 2019 | www.hta.org.uk | Follow us on Twitter @HTAnewsGA R D ENING IS GO O D FO R YO U
Spring is in the air, and tree planting, sowing flower meadows and me-nots, bold daisy-like
creating wildlife ponds. By connecting with Bellis perennis, pansies
there’s no better time to nature the Green Gym enhances mental and dainty violas, or
start planning and planting wellbeing, helping people contribute primulas and primroses.
colourful displays to enjoy something positive to their community. Also choose early
Find out more at flowering hardy perennials
over the months ahead. This www.tcv.org.uk/greengym. like brunnera, epimedium,
March we’re encouraging you bergenia, hellebores, euphorbia,
to share this news with your PLANTS OF THE MOMENT: and a host of others. For many,
camellias are the plant of choice for
customers with help from SPRING COLOUR & SPRING
classy spring colour.
our ‘Gardening is Good for PLANTING
You!’ campaign, supported by Whether it’s drifts of golden daffodils or
National Garden Gift Vouchers. a multi-coloured kaleidoscope of tulips,
spring bulbs are the perfect choice to fill DOWNLOAD THE
borders, patio pots and window boxes. G I G FY M E D I A PAC K
Many fill the air with their heady fragrance
Create your own campaign
I
too, like hyacinth, making them an ideal pot
f your customers want instant impact and promotion for Gardening is
plant to grow indoors.
offer plants at their best through spring Good for You! Monthly content,
Keep the colour coming by mixing bulbs
including daffodils, tulips, fragrant including articles and images,
with seasonal bedding plants including
hyacinth and other flowering bulbs, all is available for use. Visit
long-flowering wallflowers, frothy forget-
perfect for partnering in patio pots and hta.org.uk/gardeningisgoodforyou
flower beds with seasonal bedding like
pansy, viola, wallflower, bellis, forget-me- PLANT Follow the campaign
SUGGESTIONS
not, primula and polyanthus. #GIGFY
Growing flowers, crops and herbs from For further information contact
seed is also a rewarding way to grow, and media.office@hta.org.uk
perfect for customers who are gardening
on a budget. Many gardening activities Spring flowering bulbs
like sowing, potting, watering and planting
Spring bedding plants, including Senetti
bring with them the rewards of nurturing
and watching plants grow and flourish. Hardy Perennials such as Perennial Wallflower
By producing wonderful displays and (Erysimum ‘Bowles’s Mauve’ AGM), Hellebores,
enjoying the fruits of our labours we are Euphorbia, Bergenia and Bruunera ‘Jack Frost’ AGM
satisfying an intrinsic need for creativity
Green perennials to plant now such as Paeonia, Lupin,
and achievement, both important for our
Delphinium, Hollyhock (Alcea), Digitalis.
mental health and wellbeing.
Gardening is excellent exercise, too. Spring flowering shrubs:
Gently stretching and bending while
Erica x darleyensis eg ‘Ghost Hills’ AGM
planting and weeding helps keep you fit
and flexible. More active gardening like Clematis armandii ‘Apple Blossom’ AGM
digging, clearing, raking, sweeping and Oregon Grape - Mahonia aquifolium ‘Apollo’ AGM
lawn mowing will also raise your heart rate,
and burn off more calories too. Just an Pieris japonica eg ‘Passion’, ‘Flaming Silver’ AGM
hour of active gardening could use around Skimmia japonica ‘Rubella’ AGM
250 - 500 calories. So, tell your customers
to forget joining an expensive gym and get Camellia, Azaleas, Rhododendrons.
active outdoors in their garden instead.
DID YOUR CUSTOMERS KNOW?
The Green Gym run by The Conservation
Volunteers uses natural exercise to promote
community health. These fun and free
outdoor sessions involve activities like
MARCH IMAGE CREDIT
Brunera Jack
Find us Frost in April © Adam Pasco Media
on Facebook | www.hta.org.uk | March 2019 15LA NDSCAP ER NEWS
BBC Gardeners’ World Live
T
his year, garden designer Prof. David Stevens takes the design
baton whilst the WorldSkills 2018 finalists creating the teams
Young Landscapers Award are
Team A: Matthew Wood, Myerscough College, and Sam Gordon,
The Gardenmakers
The BBC Gardeners’ World Live Young Team B: Reece McKay, College of Agriculture, Food and Rural
Landscapers Competition launched in 2018 Enterprise (CAFRE), and Brian Hughes, College of Agriculture,
with two Diarmuid Gavin Show Gardens, fondly Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE)
Prof. David Stevens has a back catalogue twenty-six Chelsea Flower
named The Round Garden and the Square Show medals, three being Best in Show, and is the author
Garden, offering each team very different of no less than twenty-one gardening books.
challenges. Jacob Botting and Laurence Senior David explains “This year the competition highlights front gardens
which are so often overlooked, after all first impressions count! The
took home the winning trophy and a Silver link between house and garden is a vital one and the two designs,
Award. one contemporary and the other more traditional, link strongly with
the adjoining building. While planting naturally plays an important
role so too do the hard landscape elements of paving, steps and
boundaries. It’s fantastic to be working with Marshalls as sponsors of
the competition, with their huge range of excellent materials that can
be chosen to suit virtually any situation.”
The competition is as inspirational for the visitors as for those
involved, as David explains “While the gardens will be an exciting
challenge for the young teams, they will also be an inspiration to
the public who can take many of the ideas home to enhance that all
important plot at the front of the house.”
In just it’s second year, this competition is certainly making
its mark. David Stevens says, “After the success of the Young
Landscapers Award last year it's a real thrill and pleasure to be
working with the two teams in 2019.” He continues “It's vital that
young people entering the trade are taught the skills they need, and
APL members have wholeheartedly embraced the competition.”
You’ll be able to see the two Show Gardens and discover which
BBC Gardeners’ World Live team has won the accolade of BBC Gardeners’ World Live Young
Young Landscaper Award competitors 2018 Landscapers of the Year at the Show which takes place from 13-
16 June 2019 at The NEC Birmingham. For info and tickets visit
bbcgardenersworldlive.com
Garden designs for the
2019 BBC Gardeners’ World Live
Young Landscapers Award competition.
16 March 2019 | www.hta.org.uk | Follow us on Twitter @HTAnewsLA NDSCAP ER NEWS
APL Business Development COURSE DATES
• 4 and 25 September
Programme 2019 •
•
8 and 9 October
11 November
Following on from the success of the previous
LOCATION
APL Business Development Programmes, the
Horticulture House, Manor Court, Chilton, Oxfordshire, OX11 0RN
course is back for 2019!
Craig McGibbon, Garden Design and Landscaping, said of the course,
“I attended the first APL Business Development program early 2018.
T
aking place over five days, this exclusive training course is limited I felt the need to attend the event as though parts of my business
to 10 attendees to ensure dedicated one-to-one guidance and will were successful there were areas l felt desperately needed work and
cover all you need to further develop your business. l wasn’t sure how to tackle them as well as finding the time to focus
on them.
After the first two days, l was driving home thinking where do l
THE COURSE INCLUDES:
want the business to be in 3 years’ time? It wasn’t the until the next
• Developing a business plan day driving to site, through the rain, cataloguing the various aches
• Business planning process and pains that l had the moment of clarity of l need to be generally
• Developing your long-term vision/goal off the tool, concentrating on building and maintaining the business
• Balancing development – setting objectives financially, as well as training and mentoring existing and future landscaping
identifying target markets/customers, for staff and efficiency of staff / apprentices.
operation and processes I am actively following the clear business plan and direction l
• Sales leads and creating a pipeline of potential customers now have from this business course. I have implemented
• Financial planning and management numerous items, few areas l am struggling to implement but
• Business simulation working in teams to plan the development of actively pursuing them.
a business and review financial impact of decisions made at each Highly recommended – 5 stars – priceless!”
team meeting
• Managing income
• Budgets and forecasting Email Natalie.Ilsley@hta.org.uk or call
• Profit and loss account 0333 003 3550 for further details.
• And much more…
ULEZ: Where and when You can pay the ULEZ daily charge from 8 April 2019. It will be:
• £12.50 for most vehicle types, including cars, motorcycles and
vans (up to and including 3.5 tonnes)
The Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) will • £100 for heavier vehicles, including lorries (over 3.5 tonnes) and
buses/coaches (over 5 tonnes)
replace the T-Charge from 8 April 2019.
This will be in addition to the weekday Congestion Charge and
The daily charge runs from midnight to the Low Emission Zone (LEZ) charge and will replace the T-Charge.
midnight, 7 days a week, every day of the From 25 October 2021 the area will expand to the inner London
area bounded by the North and South Circular roads.
year, within the same area as the current
Find out more information about the ULEZ boundary increase at:
Congestion Charging Zone (CCZ). www.tfl.gov.uk/modes/driving/ultra-low-emission-zone/ulez-
where-and-when#on-this-page-6
Find us on Facebook | www.hta.org.uk | March 2019 17Discover the benefits of
colour picture labels.
Trust Easitill, Floralabels and OKI to deliver a
great labelling solution, brilliant labels and
excellent print quality.
T: 01604 881881
E: sales@easitill.co.uk
www.easitill.co.ukA DV E RTORIAL
conditions. We offer free next day delivery
on orders of 3 boxes or more. Our labelling
software is simple to install and use with
on-site training and installation with free
support for all customers who purchase
labels from us.
Are you a multi-site business owner
We at Easitill, along with our
looking for a more efficient way of
partners Floralabels and OKI producing labels, shelf edging, banners offers great potential to boost plant sales at
Europe, are proud to present and A4/A3 posters? typically quiet times of the year.
All you need to get labelling is the Easitill
the complete plant labelling We live in a society of rapid changing pace,
which is why it is important to choose a labelling software, our unique Floralabels
solution. (including stick-ins, self-ties, adhesives
retail printing solution that’s as flexible as
you need it to be. Whether you need quality signs, A3/A4 posters and banners), and an
posters or banner printing, flawless shop OKI C712 (A4 and labels) or C833 (A3/A4 and
LABELS ON-DEMAND labels) printer, all provided through Easitill.
signage printing or just plain back office
Print as much or as little as required. documents, OKI printers can deliver High And in case you need it, we also offer a
Only print the labels you need, when you Definition colour prints. plant database of over 15,000 plant images.
need them! Floralabels plant labels can be fully
Colour Picture Labels Vs Black and White customised with your address, logos,
Do you hand write your labels? Colour picture labels have been proven barcode, description, price and more.
There are many businesses using to sell more plants, sooner. There is still The OKI printer can also be used for your
handwritten labels. OKI colour printed a place for simple black and white labels, general printing too!
labels are not only affordable, furthermore, perhaps just showing Description, Barcode There are no monthly or annual fees
they give a very professional finish to and Price (which our solution also offers), for support provided you purchase our
your business. but for retailing plants, customers like to unique labels.
see what their potential purchase will grow
Are you using plastic laminate for your into so are more likely to buy plants out of
posters and signs? season if they have a colour picture label. It
Our biodegradable labels and signs are
fully weather resistant. Laminated posters
can often look unprofessional as the
weather causes condensation to build up If you would like a free sample pack (with free Pen!) or demonstration of the
inside the laminate.
labelling system in action, please call Easitill on 01604 881 881 or go to our
website www.easitill.co.uk and fill in the contact form. Trust Easitill, Floralabels
Are you unhappy with your existing
labelling software and labels?
and OKI Europe to deliver a great labelling solution, brilliant labels and
excellent print quality. Discover the benefits of colour picture labels.
Our durable labels will survive all weather
conditions without fading or becoming
brittle and will biodegrade in landfill For more information, call 01604 881881, email sales@easitill.co.uk or visit
www.easitill.co.uk
Find us on Facebook | www.hta.org.uk | March 2019 19Technology
A disruptor or an
opportunity?
Technology is increasingly
influencing home life,
the way we shop, learn
and communicate and it
threatens to disrupt working
life too. Here we discuss
how technology is shaping
consumer behaviour and
where opportunities lie for T HE S M A RT PLANT AP P IN USE
the garden industry.
51% British adults agree with the
statement “I like to have technology that
makes life easier at home”2
MOBILE FIRST
Three quarters of all British adults (aged 16+) now own a
smartphone. This includes 69% of 55-64-year olds, which is CONVENIENCE
predicted to rise to 94% by 20291. Mobile is now the preferred device
for accessing the internet and 13% of all GB adults say they have In 2018, 72% of British adults agreed that when they don’t know
shopped online using their mobile1. Therefore, it has never been how to do something the first thing they do is search for an answer
more important to make sure your website is optimised for mobile. online1. This is a huge opportunity for the garden industry to
An on-the-go mindset and a disliking for delay means consumers capitalise on and help drive customer loyalty in-store and online.
want to carry out activities on their own terms, unconstrained by The SmartPlant app by Garden Compass is an example of this
time and space. This means consumers are increasingly expecting working in the garden market already, allowing consumers to scan
brands and customer service to be contactable at any time too, with the barcode of their plants and receive scheduled, tailored reminders
32% GB adults using a chat messenger service to speak to a customer to care for them. It also has a Plant ID feature that can identify plants
service assistant at least monthly1. So, it is important to check for and diseases. SmartPlant also assists retailers and growers who can
messages and set expectations for responding on social media become partners, to drive online loyalty, expand on their marketing
with automatic out-of-hours replies and opening times on your and gain valuable insights on the end customer.
Facebook page. SmartPlant is also compatible with Amazon Echo’s Alexa –
As such, mobile devices have become central control hubs important given 28% of British adults now say they’ve used
for consumers, with online shopping or even controlling the voice commands1.
temperature of their home on-the-go just a tap away.
32% British adults agree “When I need to
find something online I tend to use my mobile
device first”2
20 March 2019 | www.hta.org.uk | Follow us on Twitter @HTAnewsM A R KET INFORMAT IO N
EXPERIENTIAL RETAIL
Pop-up museum-like displays in store can be a great way to drive
footfall while showcasing products; and provide exclusive real-life
experiences that cannot be replicated online – but can be shared
widely on customers’ social media. Just like beauty brand Glossier did
with their huge replica of the Antelope Canyon for customers to walk
through - which went viral on Instagram!
In 2018, 57% of consumers agreed that entertainment should be
about learning new things as much as having fun1. This presents great
opportunity for garden businesses to position themselves as the
experts. As self-checkouts become a way to increase efficiency and
productivity whilst removing some of the pain points in a customer’s
path to purchase; space is created for more customer service focused
roles in the work force. Ensuring staff are equipped with the skills
VOICE SEARCH to deliver personalised advice and learning opportunities to each
Foresight Factory predict that 42% consumers will have used voice customer could become increasingly important.
search by 2025. Searching by voice has potential to disrupt the
market by way of ‘branding bypass’ where Alexa is responsible for
selecting the brand of product that the consumer is asking her to
purchase. They note though that these implications are greater for
low emotional-involvement purchases. The likes of Amazon and 43% British adults say they have attended
Facebook are creating a ‘shoppable universe’, with opportunities to or are interested in attending an experience
purchase popping up in every area of a consumer’s daily life. We’re
likely to see an increase in products being sold through social media
created by a brand, e.g. a pop up, workshop,
and more ‘buy now’ buttons appearing over the next few years. or talk1
This presents a need to emphasise that the greatest leisure
experiences can’t be replaced by screens.
Sources:
1 - FF Online, Foresight Factory. 2 - TGI survey, Kantar Media.
It is predicted that 42% consumers will
have used voice search by 20251
GLO SS IER’S A N T ELO PE C A N YO N
REPLIC A IN LO S A N GELES .
Find us on Facebook | www.hta.org.uk | March 2019 21A DV E RTORIAL
T
his labelling system re-writes the making your labelling operations more
rules of on demand printing. Solving efficient than ever before. The system
the age old issues of rigidity and greatly reduces the risk of double feeding
edge to edge printing on laser printable and handles variations in media allowing
materials – the Hortipix Pro System can you to switch your print from stick in type
take 36% thicker media than other printers to adhesives effortlessly.
on the market and will duplex print, The labels here have been printed
producing a professionally branded label or using the new Hortipix Pro system from
tag with ease. Dura-ID Solutions.
No longer will you need to hold stock of
full colour labels, this system can be linked
with your database and printed on-demand
Change the way you in-house to your exact specifications. The
minimum qty you print is controlled by you
order your picture labels and your requirement.
Media can be ordered direct from stock,
produced on a polyester material the
labels are 100 % recyclable. Dura-ID also
Introducing the new Hortipix have tooling for different shapes of tags
Pro Labelling System - to ensure your company and product
Already established as the branding are at the forefront of design.
Have a specific shape? No problem Dura-
leading printer supplier to IDs manufacturing team will work with you
Horticulture, OKI have chosen to find the best tooling solution.
to work exclusively with The conveyor system combined with the
media feeder allows for large numbers of
Dura-ID on the Hortipix Pro sheets to be stacked at one end and fed
Labelling System. to a workstation further down the line,
The Hortipix Pro is the newest addition to Dura-ID’s
exclusive labelling solutions for the horticultural industry.
This printer handles media that is 36% thicker than s
tandard and is ideal for edge-to-edge picture label
printing.
HORTIPIX PRO
PRINTING SYSTEM
System Features
Single Pass Duplex Printing
Photograph Quality Images
Takes all types of media
Contracts Help Manage Cost
Edge-To-Edge Printing
+44 (0) 1480 274 230
Conveyor System Available Get in Touch to Attend an Open Day
horticulture@dura-id.com at our Sheffield Site or contact the
Label Templates use your Data as hort team for samples
Standard www.dura-id.com
22 March 2019 | www.hta.org.uk | Follow us on Twitter @HTAnewsYou can also read
