Andrea Harris looks at exactly what is happening with wildflowers in this country: what species are disappearing and what more is being done to halt their decline. This country is home to a rich variety of wildflowers that have shaped its countryside for centuries. From colourful meadows to ancient woodlands and coastal grasslands, these plants provide beauty, support wildlife, and …

Rudbeckia has earned its reputation as one of the finest late-summer plants. Its bright colour, long flowering season, wildlife value makes it an indispensable addition to gardens of all sizes. Whether planted in a formal border, a naturalistic prairie scheme, or a wildlife-friendly garden, rudbeckia delivers year after year. Few flowers capture the essence of late summer quite like rudbeckia. …

Often great value for money, easy to care for, needing less attention and great survivors, more gardeners are turning to hardy plants in their garden to make life a little easier. Hardy plants are tough survivors in any garden. And they are hugely popular for that very reason. Why? It’s something to do with the fact they can survive difficult …

Rambling roses possess a kind of enchantment that few other garden plants can rival. They do not merely grow; they wander, climb, tumble, and cascade with a generosity that feels almost poetic. In early summer, when their long pliant stems are smothered in clouds of bloom, rambling roses transform walls, arches, pergolas, and old trees into living tapestries of colour …

Alliums, or flowering onions, are among the most rewarding plants a gardener can grow. With their dramatic shapes, vibrant colours, and ease of care, they bring structure and elegance to any garden. From towering purple globes to delicate nodding blooms, there is an allium for every taste and space. Alliums, commonly known as flowering onions are perhaps the most striking …

Growing sweet peas (Lathyrus odoratus) in autumn offers gardeners lots of good news that can lead to stronger plants, earlier blooms, and a more rewarding gardening experience overall.  While traditionally thought of as a springtime flower, autumn sowing of sweet peas is a time-tested technique, popular among experienced gardeners and in mild winters. One of the most significant benefits of …

These fabulously colourful plants, also known as woodbines provide the most powerful scent and are a magnet for wildlife. With distinctive, bugle-shaped flowers  giving off a powerful scent and lush foliage, it’s no wonder that honeysuckles are so popular amongst gardeners. Also known as woodbine, these woodland and hedgerow plants are vigorous climbers with clusters of scented flowers which attract …

A rose in winter needs attention so it can delight us with perfect blooms in late spring and summer. Rose winter pruning is vital for an abundance of beautiful blooms and there’s an increasing trend to give them more protection. Winter is rough on roses. A rose in winter may go through extremely low temperatures and even an occasional thaw, …

This fast-growing South American plant is known for its unique blooms but they are very demanding in terms of sun and water. Brugmansias are famously also known as angel’s trumpets. These tender tropical shrubs or small trees are grown for their highly fragrant flowers. White, red or pastel shades of pink, orange or yellow, the large, flared trumpets hang from …

Lilies are the most fabulous of flowers, colourful, fragrant, easy to grow and requiring minimal attention. Nicky Davies sings their praises. Fabulous – certainly. Colourful – definitely .Close to our hearts – always. Lilies are often brightly coloured and boldly fragrant and the flowers are a very glamorous addition to any garden where they can be grown in containers or …