Awards
Top of the Plots competition winners announced
Winners of the inaugural, Gardena competition which celebrates grow-your-own culture and gardening, have been announced.
People
Carole Patilla (1966-2025)
Founder of Tuckshop Flowers and the inspiration behind Farewell Flowers, Carole Patilla died on the 10th of September, aged 59, in Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham.
People
Dr Jane Goodall, pioneer of conservation, dies at 91
The founder of the Jane Goodall Institute, UN Messenger of Peace and world-renowned ethologist, conservationist, and humanitarian, Dr. Jane Goodall DBE, has died.
RHS
Invitation to stand: RHS Council Elections 2026
Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) members interested in standing for RHS Council in 2026 are invited to submit an initial expression of interest.
People
Richard Claxton starts work as the new NGS CEO
A long standing advocate of nature-based therapies, Richard Claxton begins his new role as Chief Executive of the National Garden Scheme today.
People
Natalie Boynton recognised for outstanding service to the garden industry
The HTA awarded Natalie Boynton of Happy Plants Ltd and co-founder of the Young People in Horticulture Association, the 2025 Pearson Memorial Medal.
Events
Mycelium Magic: Mushroom growing at Hever Castle & Gardens
Mushroom growers, the Caley Brothers descend on Hever Castle & Gardens to shed light on the fascinating world of fungi and show visitors how to grow them at home.
Careers
The City Sessions: Growing Careers in Horticulture
Next Step Ahead will be organising a second series of events to showcase horticulture as a career opportunity, highlighting the diverse career paths available.
Awards
Patrick Kielty to host 2025 GIMA Awards
The comedian and broadcaster, Patrick Kielty has been confirmed as host of the 2025 GIMA Awards.
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.
People
Dan Lawton joins GCA Executive Committee as Area Co-Chair for the North
The Garden Centre Association has appointed Dan Lawton from Moss & Moor as Area Co-Chair of the North on the Executive Committee.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
People
Fiona Packe appointed Head Gardener Elizabeth II park memorial
The Royal Parks charity has appointed horticulturalist, Fiona Packe as Head Gardener for The Regent’s Park Queen Elizabeth II garden, set to open in spring 2026.
Education
A year to grow: The Adam Greathead Horticultural Award
The application process for the 2025 programme, which offers a unique opportunity for aspiring horticulturists to work with John Massey and Fergus Garrett for a year, is now open.
People
John Hillier dies aged 90
Sir Harold Hillier’s eldest son, John Hillier, the esteemed plantsman who played a pivotal role in the success of Hillier Nurseries, passed away last week.
