Blog

Now I would usually argue against planting in the middle of a 30-year record heatwave. However, when you’ve got a hundred or so plants sat waiting to go in, you can’t really hold off as they frazzle in the 32-degree heat. So I’m caveating this article that where possible avoid planting in the middle of […]

It’s easy to become disheartened when you’re halfway through a project. The beginning seems a long time ago and the end seems too far off. You’re right in the thick of it, the messy bit where everything is up in the air. It’s the classic symptom of any project, the middle bit is often where motivation […]

When designing a garden to become an extension of a house or ‘outside room’ there are some key areas you need to factor in. I thought it might be helpful to provide a guide as to how to achieve this, leading by example, of course! So why not turn your garden into an entertaining space? […]

Caroline Mann is a Buyer with garden supply specialist Wyevale Garden Centres. She explains to Garden Ninja viewers how you can keep your garden furniture in optimal condition for longer, by showing you how to care for your wooden, metal and rattan sets. Our garden furniture can be our pride and joy, with many of […]

After the success of the stand at Chelsea, I was keen to update the design and planting palette. That way people who had seen the original would have something new to uncover, whilst first-timers could still see the plant explorer theme. So I’ve managed to pack in even more plant explorer stories, different plant specimens and […]

Planting in pots is a fantastic way for newbies to make their first steps into the gardening world. Time and time again though, I see new gardeners filling pots with a mix of annuals (plants that live for one season before dying) and hanging plants (Ivy and Fuschia are classics). The classic combinations Fuschia, Petunias, […]

As a garden designer, Chelsea flower show is usually on the dream wish list, that one day you’ll get to showcase something there. Though that day always feels like lightyears in the future, given that most designers work tirelessly for years to build a reputation, strong solid horticultural network and hone their craft. That and the months […]

As a garden designer, who specialises in awkward and overlooked gardens, I use pleached trees a lot in my designs. This is not because I’m lazy with my tree choice but because they really do offer a host of benefits to a small garden. Whether it’s politely blocking out nosey neighbours, adding some contemporary drama […]

Henchman tripod ladders have been designed typically for pruning trees, topiary and hedges they allow you to work at heights without wobbling about. Designed for when you need to be at height for a while without needing to hold on for dear life.  I find that standard ladders have a habit of wobbling about and […]

The fruit tree grafting course was run at Ordsall Hall in Salford, a Tudor hall and knot garden here in Manchester. Peter Nicols from the Northern Fruit Group led the grafting workshop in showing us how to successfully graft some apple trees. The session was aimed at getting us from grafting zero to heroes! We […]