I know that we might not all have time to sit down and read every day, which is why I’m dedicating some time to improving my YouTube channel, creating fun and informative videos for you to watch while you’re on your commute, out in the garden in between mowing and weeding, or before you go…
It’s Michael
I think I’m comfortable with referring to myself as the ultimate plant geek- as my obsession with plants has been persisting for over 30 years now, and shows no sign of letting up! I have been responsible for introducing hundreds of new plants into the UK, most notably novelties such as the Egg and Chips plant and the Fuchsia Berry! Despite…
The next big landscaping shrub: Viburnum Coppertop
A competitive environment makes us work harder. It can inspire us and push us to do better. Just look at some of the great rivalries of all time: Frazier vs Ali, Jobs vs Gates, Dannii vs Kylie. Well, it just so turns out that the old garden favourite Photinia ‘Red Robin’ has some hot competition…
5 plants that tick all the wildlife boxes
There’s no denying the satisfaction you get when you see furry and winged friends visiting your garden to pollinate, eat and even just to frolic in your bird baths or wildlife hideaways. It’s a wonderful feeling, knowing that you’ve provided an environment where our wonderful wild animals feel safe. However, there’s also no denying that…
How would YOU style the Love Island villa?
Love Island is back on our screens, and although I’m not an avid follower of the programme, I’ve been dragged into it this year by a friend – and I admit, I’m kind of addicted. But when I’m not following the drama, I’m spotting the landscaping choices of the villa (this year it’s based in…
How new plants are made
Have you ever wondered how the plants sitting on a garden centre bench are actually created? During my visit to Danziger in Israel, Lab Manager Osnat gave me all the answers! From tiny shards of plants to voluptuous flowering garden specimens, here’s the journey of Petunia ‘Queen of Hearts’. 1. Obtaining the material In Danziger,…
3 of the best stories you’ll read about birds
Birds are fascinating creatures, with many a story, painting and poem based around their ability to defy gravity. As a nation we’re a bit obsessed with birds, spending around £200-£300 million each year on bird feeding products. And it’s easy to see why; there are over 620 bird species in the UK, with 250 species…
Look out for these QVC gems in 2020
We are gearing up for a fresh and new 2020 season with QVC and hope you’ll be joining us! Throughout the year, I’ve been out and about with the buying team, hunting down some super cool new plants, and discussing new garden decorative items, handy tools and many other gardening solutions. Starting on Saturday 4th…
Make a wiser choice with your bird food this winter
Winter is a difficult time for birds. Not only do the harsher weather conditions make general life harder for our winged friends, but also, food is scarce, which is why it’s important to leave out bird food during this time of year. But not just any bird food. It’s easy to pick up the cheapest…
Lomandra ‘White Sands’
Chances are you won’t have heard of Lomandra! This mysterious plant has a severe case of mistaken identity, as it’s not in fact a grass AT ALL. Lomandra plants are actually part of the Asparagus family, following a recent classification from the Lily family. However, put all that aside, and be prepared to embrace Lomandra…
Benefits of a conservatory for your beloved plants
If you’ve been itching to renovate your house to add more space for your beloved plants, a conservatory may be the answer. While it can serve as a wonderful place to sit, relax, and have a cup of tea, it also poses some benefits not just for yourself, but for your plants as well. So,…
Awkward Gardener’s question and answer time
Dan Hatch is a long-time journalist, comedian and RHS horticulture student who blogs as The Awkward Gardener. His attempts to create flourishing garden at his small east London maisonette have been quite an adventure, with endless mishaps, hospital visits, run ins with the law and a cast of colourful characters. His most popular blog post…
You’ll want to try Gazoz after reading this
During my trip to Israel, I visited Cafe Levinsky 41, where owner Benny Briga has made a living from creating his own, healthy version of Gazoz, a well-known soda drink. I tried a glass, and I was so enamoured with it that I wanted to pick his brain about his creative process, his ethos and…
Match your Christmas theme to your Poinsettia
Poinsettia Day is upon us! December 12th is the day to celebrate this festive plant in all its glory, and one way that we can do that is by including it in our Christmas decor. Not only does it look Christmassy, the Poinsettia has close links with the biggest holiday of the year. Native to…