From April 28 to May 4, 2025, National Gardening Week invites the gardening-curious, first-time gardeners, and newcomers to the world of plants to take their first steps into the wonderful world of gardening with confidence, creativity, and support.

For those who are new to gardening, getting started with the right knowledge can make all the difference, to kickstart your journey, we’ve curated a collection of beginner-friendly tips and resources, but don’t forget our knowledgeable and friendly plant team are always here to help!

Gardening Inspiration for Small Spaces and Beginners

By choosing the right plants and design elements, you can create a lush, beautiful garden, no matter the size of your space.

Each of our four show gardens has been carefully crafted to inspire gardeners of all skill levels, with a particular emphasis on those working with limited space. With the right inspiration, tools, and a little creativity, anyone can transform a small space into a sanctuary that not only enhances their surroundings but also brings peace and tranquillity to their lives.

So why not visit our show gardens, get inspired, and start your gardening journey today? You don’t need a vast plot of land to experience the joy of growing, just a little imagination and a handful of plants!

Sensory Garden

Mediterranean Garden

Formal Garden

GYO Garden

How to pick the best plants for your space

When selecting the best plants for your space, it’s important to consider several factors to ensure they thrive, first assess the amount of natural light your space receives, since different plants have varying light requirements. Is it direct, indirect, or low light or completely shaded?

Also, think about the size of the plant relative to the space, avoid choosing plants that will outgrow their location quickly or require too much maintenance for your lifestyle.

Finally, take into account the aesthetic of your space by choosing plants that complement the style and vibe you’re going for, whether it’ be minimalist or a tropical feel, keeping these factors in mind, you can pick plants that not only fit your space but also flourish in it.

What to Start Planting This Season

Click here to find out more about how to grow your own garden and enjoy the benefits of fresh, homegrown produce, from vibrant vegetables like tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers to fragrant herbs like basil and thyme, there’s a wide variety of plants you can begin to grow right now!

Attract Butterflies to Your Garden

Choosing butterfly-friendly plants for your garden not only enhances its beauty but also supports local pollinators, by choosing flowers that attract butterflies, you create a vibrant and lively space while helping to sustain these important creatures. Click here for more ideas on which plants to add to your garden to provide the perfect habitat for butterflies, with the right plants, you’ll enjoy watching butterflies flutter through your garden all season long!

Growing the Best Herbs for Cooking and Home Use

Creating a herb garden is a rewarding and practical way to enhance your cooking enjoy and spot of gardening, whether you have a small balcony, a windowsill, or a spacious garden, growing herbs like basil, rosemary, mint, and thyme is easy and fun. Herbs are not only flavourful, but they’re also low-maintenance and thrive in a variety of conditions. Click here for more information on how to get started, from choosing the best herbs for your space to caring for them throughout the season. With just a few simple steps, you can enjoy fresh, homegrown herbs at your fingertips!

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Vertical Planting with Climbing Plants

For anyone looking to maximise their gardening area this season, vertical planting is a fantastic technique that utilises vertical space to grow plants, making it an ideal solution for smaller gardens or limited outdoor areas. By growing upwards instead of outwards, you can create a lush, vibrant garden even in tight spaces. Click here to find out more about the best climbing plants and tips for creating your own vertical garden.

Best Plants for Shady Gardens

If you have a shady garden and think your planting options are limited, think again! There are plenty of beautiful plants that thrive in low light, adding color and texture to those dimmer areas of your garden. Click here to find out more so your garden remains vibrant all year long.

Designing a Wildlife-Friendly Garden

Creating a wildlife garden is a rewarding way to connect with nature and support local wildlife, by incorporating a variety of plants, water features, and habitats, you can attract birds, bees, butterflies, and other beneficial creatures to your space. Adding a birdbath or a small pond can offer essential water sources, while leaving some areas a little wild with long grass or leaf piles can create cosy hideaways for creatures. Click here for tips on how to create a thriving wildlife garden!

National Gardening Week