Charity
National Garden Scheme and Army Benevolent Fund celebrate 15 years of support
2025 marks 15 years of support and over £800,000 in donations from the National Garden Scheme to the Army Benevolent Fund, the Army’s national charity.
Business
Le Manoir to close for 18-month refurbishment with Raymond Blanc stepping down
Synonymous with garden gastronomy, two Michelin Star, Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons established by Raymond Blanc is to close for a year-and-a-half for redevelopment with the chef patron taking on a new role.
Business
BRC warn new tax band could push 400 large stores to the brink
New analysis by the British Retail Consortium shows that 400 large-format stores are at risk, if forced into the government’s proposed higher business rates tax band.
Awards
Stiga wins Innovation Award at GroundsFest 2025
Introducing their new Pro Range, Stiga’s new Large Format Robot was awarded the Innovation Award for Best Grass Cutting Equipment at GroundsFest 2025.
New Business
Healing through horticulture: Therapeutic Garden Tours
Therapeutic Gardening Tours (TGT) connects healthcare professionals with leading experts and gardens worldwide, showcasing how horticultural therapy enhances health, well-being, and professional practice.
New Business
David Hurrion launches the Norman & Vera Garden Emporium
Author, gardener and BBC Gardeners’ World events presenter, David Hurrion, launched the Norman & Vera Garden Emporium, offering sustainable gardening and lifestyle products inspired by his uncle and aunt.
Charity
Fiona Bruce to host National Garden Scheme ‘Ask the Experts’ event
BBC TV presenter, gardener and National Garden Scheme Ambassador, Fiona Bruce will host the fundraising event taking place at the Royal Geographical Society in London.
Collaboration
Collaborative research on the impacts of floriculture on health & wellbeing
Plants & Flowers Foundation Holland has joined forces with the Wageningen University & Research to investigate the effects of flowers and plants on health and wellbeing.
Business
David Austin Roses Pocket Handbook for design & trade professionals
Inspired by the Pantone colour guide, David Austin introduces the Pocket Handbook for garden designers, landscapers, and trade professionals.
People
Plant Heritage appoints Sir Roderick Newton as Chairman
Sir Roderick Newton will assume the role of Chairman of Plant Heritage, succeeding Cecilia Bufton, who is stepping down after eight years of service.
Regulation
Emma Reynolds appointed as the new Environment Secretary
Emma Reynolds has been appointed as the new Defra Secretary of State following the Cabinet reshuffle, with the former Defra Secretary, Steve Reed appointed as Housing Secretary.
Business
Beyond the Plate: Protecting biodiversity in hospitality
In partnership with the Sustainable Restaurant Association, the Hospitality Sector Council has launched a new Biodiversity Toolkit for restaurants and foodservice businesses.
Economy
The Long Wait: Speculation builds ahead of Autumn Budget
The Treasury has confirmed that the date for the Autumn Budget is November 26th, leaving over two months of speculation and uncertainty.
Environment
Opaque supply chains jeopardise future of critical forests worldwide
ZSL assessments reveals that the majority of the world’s leading tropical forestry companies are failing to disclose where their wood and pulp come from.
People
Katie Eckley to represent Wales on the Horticultural Trades Association Council
The Director of Operations at the Old Railway Line Garden Centre joins the HTA Council to ensure views of Welsh members are heard and reflected in board decisions.
Gardens
Chelsea Physic Garden appointed six new Board Trustees
The Chelsea Physic Garden announced the appointment of six new trustees to its Board to strengthen its mission to inspire wonder, wellbeing and discovery.
Charity
Dobbies launches Sensory Bulb Collection to support Alzheimer’s Research UK
Dobbies Garden Centres launches charity bulb collection that aims to raise £10,000 for its National Charity Partner, Alzheimer’s Research UK, which would fund up to 278 hours of scientists’ lab time.
Business
Stiga appoints James Gordon as UK Managing Director
The manufacturer of garden machinery, Stiga, announced the appointment of James Gordon as its new UK Managing Director, effective September 15, 2025.
Media
Britons put their faith in local news
Poll reveals people trust local journalism as the integration of AI on tech platforms advances rapidly, highlighting the importance of independent local media for the provision of information.
Business
Jo Whitfield CBE to succeed Andy Higginson as BRC Chairman
Jo Whitfield CBE has been appointed to succeed Andy Higginson as British Retail Consortium Chair, when his tenure comes to an end on 2 October 2025.
