The magic of Malvern
Posted on April 21 2013 at 1:37:17

Hannah Genders plans a sustainable garden for the Spring Show.

The generation gain
Posted on April 20 2013 at 1:33:17

To people in Bromsgrove and beyond, the name “Frank Hedges” is synonymous with tradition, family values and excellent customer care.

Inspirational gardens
Posted on April 20 2013 at 1:16:17

Dave Morgan suggests some diary dates for visiting local gardens this summer.

Make an appointment!
Posted on March 17 2013 at 3:24:33

Dave Morgan suggests some diary dates for visiting local gardens this summer.

Natural nuptials
Posted on March 16 2013 at 3:29:27

Hannah Genders visits a nursery supplying organic wedding flowers as well as veg.

Sowing and growing
Posted on February 16 2013 at 11:58:17

Hannah Genders gives some hints on growing veg in a crop rotation system.

Art of Zen gardening
Posted on January 20 2013 at 2:33:38

Hannah Genders is inspired by an Oriental garden in Yorkshire.

Eco house fruition
Posted on November 20 2012 at 2:48:11

Hannah Genders completes her work on a major garden design project in Lyme Regis.

Growing healthy options
Posted on October 22 2012 at 11:56:56

Hannah Genders works with local schoolchildren to promote the joys of producing your own food.

My fruit garden
Posted on September 17 2012 at 2:03:24

Hannah Genders provides an update on her new plot . . .

Gardens open in the dark
Posted on August 20 2012 at 12:58:25

Gardening is an inherently daytime occupation, so it would seem logical that visiting gardens should also be something you did in the daylight.

The rose man
Posted on August 19 2012 at 12:42:25

Hannah Genders chats to ‘The Rose Man’ of Alvechurch in his colourful garden.

Littleheath’s own Mr Grey
Posted on August 18 2012 at 1:01:25

Littleheath Garden Centre has tapped into the runaway success of erotic novel Fifty Shades of Grey by creating a grey-themed display of products . . . complete with their very own “Mr Grey”!

Fight back against honey fungus
Posted on July 01 2012 at 11:21:19

Bartlett Tree Experts offer advice on eradicating fungi.

The soul of Chelsea
Posted on June 27 2012 at 11:26:12

Hannah Genders discovers Jubilee exhibits and a special charity garden at this year’s Chelsea Flower Show.

Second chance Sunday
Posted on June 27 2012 at 11:08:12

Missed a local garden open day? You have a second chance, writes David Morgan.

Talent in the garden
Posted on May 20 2012 at 2:29:37

Britain may have talent, but Alvechurch has gardens, writes David Morgan.

Rules of attraction
Posted on May 18 2012 at 2:23:37

Hannah Genders advises on ways to bring bees and butterflies to the garden.

Drought and aphids
Posted on April 22 2012 at 2:15:00

Bartlett Tree Experts point out two of the dangers to plants and trees this spring.

Seeds of the future. . .
Posted on April 20 2012 at 2:12:00

Hannah Genders gets involved in an exotic project in the name of charity.

More to offer
Posted on April 20 2012 at 2:25:00

David Morgan points out some of the unusual features in local gardens opening for the NGS.

From pigs to plants
Posted on March 24 2012 at 3:54:17

David Morgan visits a former farm that’s evolved into a wedding venue with beautiful gardens.

My April vegetable garden
Posted on March 23 2012 at 9:56:35

Hannah Genders takes us through her plans for growing plenty of vegetables this spring.

Pumpkin parade revival
Posted on March 19 2012 at 10:07:35

Many readers will remember the Burcot Pumpkin Parade that used to be held in Burcot village to celebrate Halloween. It is five or six years since the last parade took place, but Neil and Nicci Gow from Fresh @ Burcot Garden Centre think it’s time the tradition was resurrected!

Lots to see at Littleheath
Posted on March 18 2012 at 10:03:13

Make the most of your home and garden with a trip to one of our friendliest garden centres.

Expect the unexpected
Posted on February 19 2012 at 11:51:38

David Morgan tells the story of a gardening disaster and explains why gardeners should ‘Be Prepared’ . . .

A hidden gem
Posted on February 18 2012 at 11:46:38

Hannah Genders introduces a secret garden concealed in the heart of London.

New year, new project
Posted on January 18 2012 at 2:50:22

Hannah Genders looks forward to work on an exciting commission.

The humble holly
Posted on November 24 2011 at 3:00:23

Hannah Genders explores the traditions of this festive foliage.

Natural play
Posted on October 21 2011 at 1:19:06

Hannah Genders helps youngsters to get away from the screen and into the great outdoors.

Christmas creativity
Posted on October 20 2011 at 11:51:40

Christmas is just around the corner, and what better way to get into the spirit of the season than by joining a Christmas Creative Floristry day at “The Manor”, located just outside the village of Alvechurch in a beautiful picturesque lakeside setting complete with mini zoo!

A courtyard transformed
Posted on September 17 2011 at 11:18:31

Hannah Genders shares the tale of a dramatic makeover for an enclosed garden.

Divide and rule
Posted on August 25 2011 at 1:41:26

Hannah Genders explains the best way to revitalise your perennials at the start of autumn.

Share your garden
Posted on August 20 2011 at 1:45:12

The NGS welcomes interesting gardens of all shapes and sizes, writes David Morgan.

Chelsea style
Posted on June 30 2011 at 3:23:18

Hannah Genders picks her favourites from this year’s Chelsea show gardens.

Gardens by appointment
Posted on June 20 2011 at 3:27:38

You don’t have to be royalty to arrange private tours of local gardens, writes David Morgan.

Gardens full of surprises
Posted on May 21 2011 at 1:47:37

Make sure you discover all the treasures our local gardens have to offer, writes David Morgan.

Challenges of a harsh winter
Posted on April 19 2011 at 12:39:26

Village gardeners have faced a race against time to get ready for “open season”, writes David Morgan.

Invaluable expertise
Posted on April 15 2011 at 12:22:29

Local garden designer Kate Dunkley is hoping for another busy year, and looking forward to facing some challenges following the harshest winter for many years.

Cherish your lawn
Posted on April 15 2011 at 12:16:03

Is your lawn Ab Fab? Is the grass lush and green with no weeds or does it let down the rest of your home and garden?

The heart of the garden
Posted on April 14 2011 at 12:34:31

Make the best use of your patio this summer. . .

Open season
Posted on March 20 2011 at 3:51:55

As village gardeners prepare for charity openings, David Morgan offers an insight into the hard work behind the scenes…

Finstall Open Gardens 2011
Posted on March 15 2011 at 9:14:10

After a three-year break, the village of Finstall will be holding an Open Gardens day on Saturday June 18, to raise funds for the Village Hall, writes Fran Rogers.

Update your planting
Posted on February 20 2011 at 2:54:33

Hannah Genders revisits one of her previous projects and offers advice on maintaining an attractive garden.

Berry Christmas!
Posted on November 19 2010 at 3:01:17

Hannah Genders celebrates some of the colourful plants that brighten our gardens at this time of year.

Plotting a potager
Posted on October 18 2010 at 5:42:58

Hannah Genders plans the creation of a decorative vegetable garden.

Autumn colour
Posted on September 17 2010 at 5:27:22

Hannah Genders finds some autumnal inspiration at a display garden.

Perfect time for planting
Posted on August 25 2010 at 4:59:06

Get your garden ready for winter!

In the night gardens
Posted on August 17 2010 at 4:33:16

Gardening is an inherently daytime occupation, so it would seem logical that visiting gardens should also be something you did in the daylight. . .

A peek over the garden wall
Posted on August 16 2010 at 5:03:33

June and July were the chance for villagers in Alvechurch to open their gardens for all to see – and raise money for the National Gardens Scheme’s charities.

Welcome to Withybed!
Posted on June 26 2010 at 2:08:00

Six households in Withybed Green opened their garden gates for the first time as a “group” under the National Garden Scheme (NGS) and were rewarded with a fabulous summer day with an almost cloudless sky, writes David Morgan.

Chelsea’s winners
Posted on June 21 2010 at 4:11:43

Hannah Genders enjoys the heat of competition at England’s top flower show.

Six of the best
Posted on May 19 2010 at 10:57:05

Two years ago, three garden owners in Withybed Green decided to open their gardens under the National Garden Scheme, as part of Alvechurch Gardens. The owners enjoyed it so much and had such a good response from the visiting public that they felt that they could almost open on their own, writes David Morgan.

Where Next expands ‘family’
Posted on May 16 2010 at 11:00:36

The words “traditional” and family-run” are often used to describe local businesses, but Frank Hedges & Sons really does live up to those valued credentials.

Border control
Posted on May 15 2010 at 1:10:53

Hannah Genders explains how to create a cottage garden border full of colour. 

History and horticulture
Posted on April 21 2010 at 1:16:06

Did you know that Oliver Cromwell supports the National Garden Scheme? OK, perhaps it’s a little stretch of the imagination, but there is a link between Oliver Cromwell and the NGS in Worcestershire, despite the 350-year gap, writes David Morgan.

Getting going on growing
Posted on April 16 2010 at 6:19:10

Try growing your own veg – you’ll soon be hooked, writes Hannah Genders.

Improve your living space
Posted on March 30 2010 at 12:50:28

Spring is the time to get your home in shape, inside and out – with the help of local businesses.

Open for charity
Posted on March 23 2010 at 2:04:28

Martin Wright welcomes the National Gardens Scheme back to Alvechurch for 2010.

Looking out for your lawn
Posted on March 18 2010 at 6:58:46

Spring is in the air at last, and for keen gardeners, lawn care will be high on the agenda. Whether you’re looking after your own back garden or a public facility, it’s well worth paying a visit to North Worcestershire Lawn & Garden Equipment, where you’ll find the best quality equipment from a range of top manfacturers.

Help schools get growing
Posted on March 16 2010 at 5:08:10

Hannah Genders gets involved with an educational initiative . . .

Life aquatic at Little Heath
Posted on March 16 2010 at 2:05:28

Whether you’re an experienced fish owner or a complete beginner, the Aquatics department at Little Heath Garden Centre offers everything you could possibly require to set up and maintain an aquarium or pond, as well as expert advice on every aspect of the subject.

Make the most of your garden
Posted on February 15 2010 at 7:08:28

Local designer Kate Dunkley can help you create a garden to be proud of.

Early days . . .
Posted on February 12 2010 at 9:14:10

Hannah Genders waits to see what surprises her new garden will spring.

Tree of Life
Posted on January 17 2010 at 8:45:10

Hannah Genders sees a very special garden project come nearer to completion.

Woody wonders
Posted on November 15 2009 at 9:49:10

Hannah Genders wanders among a few of her favourite trees.

New house, new garden
Posted on October 20 2009 at 7:17:10

Hannah Genders plans to take her time as she gets to know the growing conditions around her new home.

Colour all year long
Posted on September 17 2009 at 9:47:10

Hannah Genders suggests her top six plants for keeping your garden bright and beautiful whatever the season.

A taste of the tropics
Posted on August 21 2009 at 5:56:10

Hannah Genders takes a trip to an African paradise – just up the road from here!

Getting good interest from a small investment
Posted on August 19 2009 at 1:01:15

The first green shoots of economic recovery are appearing, according to economists, and if you want to get the first green shoots in your garden, then planting a few spring flowering bulbs now will give you a great return for your investment.

Plan ahead to enjoy home-grown fruit & veg all year!
Posted on June 17 2009 at 2:52:33

Summer is the time when gardeners can relax a little and take time to enjoy the fruits of their labours from the spring.

The people you meet in the garden
Posted on June 17 2009 at 2:45:33

David Morgan is fascinated by the characters who come to mooch around open gardens.

A big thank you from Rectory Cottage
Posted on June 12 2009 at 2:48:33

Many thanks to all who came to our open garden at Rectory Cottage, Old Rectory Lane, Alvechurch, on June 7, writes Celia Hitch.

Chelsea’s class shows
Posted on June 09 2009 at 7:50:10

Hannah Genders enjoys one of the best years she can remember at Chelsea.

Spot the difference!
Posted on May 17 2009 at 2:24:02

As the trio of Marlbrook Gardens prepare to open once more, David Morgan explains the challenges of creating something new for visitors to see each year.

Malvern in the springtime
Posted on May 16 2009 at 7:38:10

Hannah Genders finds her delight tinged with disappointment at Malvern’s Spring Show.

Still blooming
Posted on May 15 2009 at 2:42:02

Jeff Griffiths looks back over the history of Rowney Green Horticultural Society, which is preparing for its 39th Annual Rose Show.

The taste of summer
Posted on May 15 2009 at 2:40:02

You might have lost touch with the pleasures of cooking and eating outdoors after the last couple of summers – but if the forecasters can be believed, then this is the summer to rekindle your relationship with your barbecue.

Evolution of a garden
Posted on May 13 2009 at 2:26:02

Nicky Sethia on the unplanned creation at her Rowney Green home.

Eating out is the new eating in
Posted on April 23 2009 at 2:17:11

There has been much talk recently about the trend to entertain friends at home rather than going out to expensive restaurants. However, as summer approaches with the promise of warm balmy evenings, then thoughts turn to entertaining out – but out in your garden.

A labour of love
Posted on April 18 2009 at 9:59:55

The special garden being created ready for a charity open day.

Shoots and leaves
Posted on March 16 2009 at 5:57:42

Growing your own vegetables is a cheap, simple and healthy option, says Hannah Genders. 

Year-round colour for your garden
Posted on March 15 2009 at 6:01:42

Do you look at other people’s gardens with envy and wonder how they manage to make them look so full of colour and interest all year round?

Heaven for garden lovers
Posted on February 17 2009 at 2:51:09

Little Heath Aquatics, Garden Centre and Restaurant has been a favourite with garden lovers for the past 30 years, but the Lickey End business could never be accused of resting on its laurels – it is constantly being improved and expanded to ensure its many loyal customers receive the best possible service. 

Colours of spring
Posted on February 17 2009 at 2:43:09

Hannah Genders visits a colourful bulb meadow and advises on how to create your own.

Feeding feathered friends
Posted on January 20 2009 at 4:45:34

Feeding birds in the garden has grown hugely in popularity in recent years, and now more than half the adults in the UK do this regularly, write Nicci and Neil Gow.

A garden of hope
Posted on January 18 2009 at 4:40:34

Hannah Genders reports on the progress of a very special garden.

Flowers afloat
Posted on November 18 2008 at 11:45:43

Hannah Genders scrubs up for a voyage of discovery.

The incr-edibles
Posted on October 18 2008 at 2:21:22

The Malvern Autumn show was a giant success, writes Hannah Genders. 

Furniture with a future
Posted on September 20 2008 at 3:03:46

Hannah Genders finds the perfect bench to complement a sustainable garden design.

Gardeners’ worlds
Posted on August 19 2008 at 6:41:51

Some of the local gardens opening their doors for charity.

The common touch
Posted on August 17 2008 at 12:12:29

Hannah Genders enjoys a taste of country life based on centuries of tradition. 

Your own ray of sunshine!
Posted on August 15 2008 at 6:49:29

Now that the nights are drawing in, why not bring a ray of sunshine to your home in the winter gloom by growing spring flowering bulbs indoors?

A privileged peek at Chelsea
Posted on June 23 2008 at 12:27:02

Hannah Genders enjoys the latest trends in garden design at the biggest annual flower show.

Alvechurch Open Gardens
Posted on June 22 2008 at 11:31:29

Sixteen gardens in Alvechurch opened for charity in the National Gardens Scheme, raising £3,167 in one day.

Going for gold
Posted on May 20 2008 at 3:37:53

Hannah Genders talks to designers at the Malvern Spring Show.

Salad crops on the menu
Posted on May 20 2008 at 3:33:53

Teacher Anne Guest reports on progress at the Alvechurch school allotment project.

Charity gardens open day
Posted on May 20 2008 at 2:34:53

For the third year running garden owners in Alvechurch are opening their gates to visitors under the National Garden Scheme (NGS), writes Martin Wright.

10 years and smiling
Posted on May 19 2008 at 3:42:18

Hopwood Garden Centre celebrates a milestone.

Finstall’s open invitation
Posted on May 19 2008 at 1:08:18

Explore the village and its history, see beautiful gardens and raise vital funds, says Fran Rogers.