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<p><span id="docs-internal-guid-7a8134f8-7fff-3971-0125-16860f264f10">If you’re thinking of <strong>planting a hedge</strong>, it’s well worth considering <strong>deciduous</strong> shrubs. Deciduous shrubs are easy to grow and need an occasional trim. Deciduous hedging plants often have beautiful flowers and berries that attract wildlife to the garden, contributing to biodiversity. Many shrubs have fabulous autumn foliage, too. So, what are you waiting for, here are six of our favourite deciduous hedging plants.</span></p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-7a8134f8-7fff-3971-0125-16860f264f10">If you’re thinking of <strong>planting a hedge</strong>, it’s well worth considering <strong>deciduous</strong> shrubs. Deciduous shrubs are easy to grow and need an occasional trim. Deciduous hedging plants often have beautiful flowers and berries that attract wildlife to the garden, contributing to biodiversity. Many shrubs have fabulous autumn foliage, too. So, what are you waiting for, here are six of our favourite deciduous hedging plants.</span></p>
<h2>Top 6 deciduous hedging plants</h2>
<h3 dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-7a8134f8-7fff-3971-0125-16860f264f10">1. Beech</span></h3>
<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-7a8134f8-7fff-3971-0125-16860f264f10">One of the most popular traditional hedging plants, beech (</span>Fagus sylvatica) grows well in most free-draining soils, in sun or light shade. The new leaves are vivid green in spring, darkening slightly in summer and then turning gold in autumn. For real impact, choose copper beech (Fagus sylvatica ‘Atropurpurea’) with deep purple-bronze leaves that turn copper-coloured in autumn.&nbsp;</p>
<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-7a8134f8-7fff-3971-0125-16860f264f10">Beech grows about 30-60cm (1-2ft) per year and should be trimmed in late summer, giving it time to put on new leaves before winter. These leaves will turn brown but will stay on the plant until new leaves appear in spring, providing screening.&nbsp;</span></p>
<h3 dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-7a8134f8-7fff-3971-0125-16860f264f10">2. Hornbeam</span></h3>
<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-7a8134f8-7fff-3971-0125-16860f264f10">If you like the look of a beech hedge, but your soil is heavy clay, hornbeam (</span>Carpinus betulus) is the answer. It looks very similar to beech, but copes better with wet soils, although it doesn’t hold its leaves for as long through winter as beech does. Hornbeam grows faster than beech, so prune it twice a year, in June and September.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-7a8134f8-7fff-3971-0125-16860f264f10">3. Forsythia</span></h3>
<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-7a8134f8-7fff-3971-0125-16860f264f10">For a fabulous splash of early colour, it’s hard to beat a forsythia hedge. In spring, before the new leaves appear, the bare branches are smothered in a blaze of golden yellow flowers. This reliable shrub will grow in most soils, in sun or light shade. Cut it back immediately after flowering, and trim it again lightly in late summer to shape.</span></p>
<h3 dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-7a8134f8-7fff-3971-0125-16860f264f10">4. Rugosa rose</span></h3>
<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-7a8134f8-7fff-3971-0125-16860f264f10">Rugosa roses (</span>Rosa x rugosa) make a lovely informal hedge, with large colourful flowers all through summer followed by spectacular red hips in winter. Birds and bees will love it, and the very thorny stems provide good security. Trim in spring, wearing gloves! Rugosa roses are ideal for coastal gardens, grow well in sandy soil and like a sunny position.&nbsp;</p>
<h3><span id="docs-internal-guid-7a8134f8-7fff-3971-0125-16860f264f10">5. Hawthorn</span></h3>
<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-7a8134f8-7fff-3971-0125-16860f264f10">Hawthorn (</span>Crataegus monogyna) is another excellent choice for wildlife-friendly gardens, with flowers in spring for bees, followed by berries for birds. The thorny branches also provide good security for nesting birds. Colourful autumn leaves and berries keep it looking good into winter. Trim in early summer after flowering is finished, and try to leave a few berries for the birds.&nbsp; For a more formal look, trim again in late summer.&nbsp;</p>
<h3><span id="docs-internal-guid-7a8134f8-7fff-3971-0125-16860f264f10">6. Hardy fuchsia</span></h3>
<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-7a8134f8-7fff-3971-0125-16860f264f10">In areas with mild winters, hardy</span> Fuchsia magellanica makes a spectacular informal hedging choice, with vivid lipstick-pink flowers for months from summer well into autumn. It does best in a sheltered spot in partial shade. Trim it in early spring.&nbsp;</p>
<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-7a8134f8-7fff-3971-0125-16860f264f10">Winter and early spring is an ideal time to plant deciduous shrubs, while they are still dormant. Visit our centre to choose from our wide range of hedging shrubs for your garden.</span></p>

Planting a deciduous hedge

<p>Find our <strong>top 5 plants for the home office</strong> to make your room the ideal place to be motivated, productive and efficient. Houseplants bring so much to a room, not just aesthetically but also as they clear the air of common toxins and give you something to feel responsible for as you nurture it, so your plant thrives. There are many to choose from, but specifically for the home office here are our top picks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Find our <strong>top 5 plants for the home office</strong> to make your room the ideal place to be motivated, productive and efficient. Houseplants bring so much to a room, not just aesthetically but also as they clear the air of common toxins and give you something to feel responsible for as you nurture it, so your plant thrives. There are many to choose from, but specifically for the home office here are our top picks.&nbsp;</p>
<h2>1. Sansevieria (Snake plant/Mother in law's tongue)</h2>
<p>The Sansevieria was used in NASA's first experiment to see if plants cleared toxins from the air. It turned out they do! Sansevieria is one of the best at doing so and not only does it work day and night, it is one of the easiest of all houseplants to look after. Needing little water, little light and generally pest-free, this looks stunning in a pot on its own or grouped together for a special architectural look.&nbsp;</p>
<h2>2. Monstera (Swiss cheese plant)&nbsp;</h2>
<p>Your office will be seriously on-trend with a Monstera in the corner. Bright, indirect light and water when the soil is dry your Monstera will definitely get some comments when you are on your next zoom call! Popular in the 1970s, this stunning plant has made a big comeback with its big glossy green leaves and easy to care for style.&nbsp;</p>
<h2>3. Zamioculcas (ZZ plant)&nbsp;</h2>
<p>The upright stems with foliage that provides a zigzag effect, this is another easy to care for, a quick-growing houseplant that tolerates many conditions including a shady corner. Its glossy green foliage is interesting and great to look at. Stand it on the corner of your desk and water when the soil is dry.&nbsp;</p>
<h2>4. Spathiphyllum (peace lily)&nbsp;</h2>
<p>When you need some peace from your work, take a look at the peace lily in a medium-light position. The white pretty bract cups the yellow flowers and only needs to be watered when the soil is dry. As you admire your peace lily, know it is cleaning the air of toxins as well as making your room look pretty.&nbsp;</p>
<h2>5. Cacti (any type)</h2>
<p>When the going gets tough at work, and you are feeling prickly, taking a look at a Cactus sitting on your desk will make you feel you are not alone! There are many different types available to suit your mood and personality. Plus, they need barely any water, just some bright light and well-drained soil.&nbsp;</p>
<p>We have a range of houseplants in store, and our team are here to give you advice on which to choose.&nbsp;</p>

Top 5 plants for the home office

<p><span id="docs-internal-guid-cd1cddb8-7fff-fd6b-f0d1-b8a58d7d5fe6">Here are <strong>7 ways to style your home office</strong>.&nbsp;</span><span>Working from home is here to stay, and we all work better when we’re in pleasant surroundings. Turn your home office into a welcoming, inspiring place with these top tips.&nbsp;</span></p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-cd1cddb8-7fff-fd6b-f0d1-b8a58d7d5fe6">Here are <strong>7 ways to style your home office</strong>.&nbsp;</span><span>Working from home is here to stay, and we all work better when we’re in pleasant surroundings. Turn your home office into a welcoming, inspiring place with these top tips.&nbsp;</span></p>
<h2>Tips&nbsp;to style your home office</h2>
<ol style="list-style-type:decimal;">
<li dir="ltr">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><span id="docs-internal-guid-cd1cddb8-7fff-fd6b-f0d1-b8a58d7d5fe6">Research shows that spending time around plants and nature improves our mental health and boosts creativity. If you’re lucky enough to have a view from your home office window, take time every day to appreciate the changing seasons. If your office has no windows, put a beautiful houseplant on your desk to keep you in touch with nature while you work.&nbsp;</span></p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" value="2">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><span id="docs-internal-guid-cd1cddb8-7fff-fd6b-f0d1-b8a58d7d5fe6">You spend a lot of time in your home office, so it needs to suit your own personal style. Whether your choice is minimalist furniture with simple lines, a traditional leather-topped oak desk, walls lined with books or inspirational art, take the chance to express your own style in your home office.&nbsp;</span></p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" value="3">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><span id="docs-internal-guid-cd1cddb8-7fff-fd6b-f0d1-b8a58d7d5fe6">Good light is vital for any office. Get as much natural light into your office as you can – this helps to keep you connected to the world outside. A smart new task lamp lets you work without straining your eyes, and it’s also a quick and easy way to give your office a fresh new look.&nbsp;</span></p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" value="4">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><span id="docs-internal-guid-cd1cddb8-7fff-fd6b-f0d1-b8a58d7d5fe6">If your home doesn’t have an extra room that can be used as an office, turn a corner into a dedicated workspace by creating an accent wall where your desk is, painted or papered in the design of your choice to make it feel visually separate from the rest of your home. A decorative folding screen can hide your desk when you’re not at work so that you don’t feel you’re living in your office.</span></p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" value="5">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><span id="docs-internal-guid-cd1cddb8-7fff-fd6b-f0d1-b8a58d7d5fe6">Stop your office spreading out into your home. It’s worth investing some time and money in setting up a good filing system that will allow you to stay organised and in control.</span></p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" value="6">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><span id="docs-internal-guid-cd1cddb8-7fff-fd6b-f0d1-b8a58d7d5fe6">Choose your colours carefully. Pale, neutral colours help to make a space feel larger and lighter, and you can liven things up by adding touches of brighter colours that speak to you. Paint a shelf in your favourite colour, hang a print on your wall, or buy matching accessories for your desk.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" value="7">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><span id="docs-internal-guid-cd1cddb8-7fff-fd6b-f0d1-b8a58d7d5fe6">For those times when you need a bit of extra motivation, keep something on your desk that speaks to you, as a reminder of things you love about your life. Pebbles picked up on the beach, your children’s artwork, a fresh-picked flower from your garden – place them where you can see them and be inspired by them.&nbsp;</span></p>
</li>
</ol>
<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-cd1cddb8-7fff-fd6b-f0d1-b8a58d7d5fe6">You’ll find plenty to inspire you in our exciting indoor plants and homeware ranges, so visit our centre to get your home office off to a great start.</span></p>

7 ways to style your home office

<p>It’s time to start <strong>cleaning up your garden tools</strong> so they are just like brand new to start off the new year of gardening again. It is important to keep your tools and other garden accessories clean to ensure they don’t spread any pests or diseases in your garden. It is easy to do and can even fill some time up over the winter months until the weather warms up and it’s time to sow more seeds.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It’s time to start <strong>cleaning up your garden tools</strong> so they are just like brand new to start off the new year of gardening again. It is important to keep your tools and other garden accessories clean to ensure they don’t spread any pests or diseases in your garden. It is easy to do and can even fill some time up over the winter months until the weather warms up and it’s time to sow more seeds.&nbsp;</p>
<h2>Seed trays should be included when cleaning up your garden tools&nbsp;</h2>
<p>When you gather all of your gardening tools ready to clean them, don’t forget any unused pots and empty seed trays. Everything can be cleaned up ready to go for spring. Grab a bucket or bowl, or even the kitchen sink and soak the trays in warm soapy water. Make sure they are well-scrubbed and dry them off ready to store and sow seeds in when you are ready.</p>
<h2>When cleaning up your garden tools don’t forget hand tools&nbsp;</h2>
<p>Hand tools are some of the most used of all of the gardening tools so they should be top of the list for cleaning. Any time of the year is good for brushing off dirt and storing well but at least once a year a good wash and clean up helps to prevent the spread of disease and pests. When you clean your tools, make sure you check out they are in good working order and do any repairs if needed.&nbsp;</p>
<h2>Cleaning up your garden tools such as forks, spades and hoes</h2>
<p>All of your bigger gardening tools also need to be kept in good condition so keeping them clean means they will be in good condition for many years to come. Soaking them in soapy water is the easiest and quickest way to give them a clean but if you have worked with them around any diseased plants make sure you clean them straightaway before using them around another plant.</p>
<h2>Plant labels included when cleaning up your garden tools</h2>
<p>Another gardeners accessory that is used frequently in and around the garden is the plant label. Labels are constantly used in soil and around plants, often switched from one plant to another and they will need to be cleaned as well. Wipe off any plant names if you can soak them in soapy water and scrub.</p>
<p>Allow everything to dry off before you store them again which will help to ensure there is no rust development. Your tools can last very many years with good care and repairs on an annual basis at least.&nbsp;</p>
<p>If you do need some new tools, we have many in store for you to choose from.&nbsp;</p>

Cleaning up your garden tools

<p>This month, as part of <strong>Veganuary</strong>, many of us are trying to adopt a more vegetarian or vegan lifestyle. To help, we’ve put together a few tips on being more vegan in the way we garden.</p>

<p>This month, as part of <strong>Veganuary</strong>, many of us are trying to adopt a more vegetarian or vegan lifestyle. To help, we’ve put together a few tips on being more vegan in the way we garden.</p>
<h2>What is Veganuary?</h2>
<p>Veganuary&nbsp;is the world's largest vegan movement, inspiring people to try vegan for January and throughout the rest of the year. Try a vegetarian or vegan lifestyle this month and help mother earth. Eating vegetarian or vegan isn't too difficult. Read our tips to start this year healthy. Can you hold on to your New Year's resolutions?</p>
<h2>Tips for vegan gardening</h2>
<p>Vegan gardening is about growing plants without the use of animal products and chemicals. It involves learning to live with garden pests like slugs and insects rather than reaching for the pesticide bottle and making choices that are good for the environment as a whole and our gardens. Becoming a vegan gardener doesn’t happen overnight, but here are a few ways to start.</p>
<ul>
<li>
<p><strong>Let a part of your garden go a bit wild</strong>, and you’ll reap the benefits of the wildlife that will soon arrive.&nbsp; Long grass provides a habitat for insects, shady, damp log piles encourage frogs, and hedges bring in birds and even hedgehogs, which all do their bit to keep pests like slugs and aphids under control.&nbsp;</p>
</li>
<li>
<p><strong>Grow some of your own food</strong>. Having a vegetable patch helps, but it’s surprising how many plants can be grown in small spaces. Beans, peas, tomatoes and even dwarf fruit trees can be grown in pots, and salad leaves will thrive on a sunny windowsill, as will many herbs. The best thing about growing your own food is that you really know exactly what’s gone into it.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p><strong>Make your own compost</strong>. Get a compost bin or use pallets to build your own, and add your garden cuttings and vegetable scraps – obviously no dairy or meat products, though. Add some torn-up cardboard to aerate your compost and give it the right balance of carbon and nitrogen.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p><strong>Learn to live with garden pests</strong>. Plant young seedlings out later so they’re less attractive to slugs and protect them with copper tape.&nbsp; Invest in nets or barriers to protect plants from cabbage white butterflies, carrot flies and hungry birds. And consider planting more than you need, so you can afford to lose a few plants.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p><strong>Don’t use animal manure for fertilizer</strong>. Instead, feed your soil by sowing green manure crops like clover and digging the plants back into the soil to break down. Practice crop rotation to avoid depleting soils, and mulch with your own compost, if you have enough.&nbsp;</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>To <strong>make your own high-potassium liquid plant food</strong>, fill a bucket with chopped up comfrey leaves, top it up with water, put a lid on and leave it for 2-4 weeks (best to put it far away from the house - it smells!) Strain out the leaves, dilute the black liquid from 1 part comfrey tea to 10 parts water, and feed tomatoes and other fruiting plants.&nbsp;</p>
</li>
</ul>
<p>Whether you’re new to gardening or an old hand, you’ll find everything you need in our centres, so visit us and get your gardening year off to a great start.</p>

Get into Veganuary: Vegan gardening tips

<p>Know <strong>how to get through this Blue Monday</strong> to make sure that you thrive forward into the year without feeling low on the saddest day of the year. The third Monday of January every year is named Blue Monday because it is at the point of the month where the festivities have ended, it’s cold outside and new years resolutions have been broken. But, by doing one or all of the below activities, you can get through the day without feeling blue.</p>

<p>Know <strong>how to get through this Blue Monday</strong> to make sure that you thrive forward into the year without feeling low on the saddest day of the year. The third Monday of January every year is named Blue Monday because it is at the point of the month where the festivities have ended, it’s cold outside and new years resolutions have been broken. But, by doing one or all of the below activities, you can get through the day without feeling blue.</p>
<h2>Forest bathe to get through this Blue Monday&nbsp;</h2>
<p>No matter what the weather is like, wrap up warm and put your wellies on to go for a walk. Make sure you wander amongst the trees, absorbing the oils omitted and the fresh air all around. Don’t forget to look up at the canopy and appreciate the magnificence of trees. As your forest bathe, you should feel your stress levels lower, anxiety decrease, and ready to enjoy the day.&nbsp;</p>
<h2>Get through this Blue Monday and sow some seeds</h2>
<p>Growing flowers and cultivating your own food brings not only a great deal of joy but also so much hope. When times can be tough, sowing seeds gives you something to look after, be responsible for and have hope for the future as you nurture and watch your seeds grow. Why not try sowing some microgreens for a quick and satisfying turnaround. You’ll have nutritious plants on your plate in as little as ten days to three weeks.&nbsp;</p>
<h2>Be creative and get through this Blue Monday&nbsp;</h2>
<p>Have you wanted to get your hands on a creative project? Why not start today. Try colouring books or sketching. Try out different pencils, colours, glitter and paper. Why not let your inner artist out and get everything down on paper. Spend some time just doing that craft project you’ve meant to try for ages.&nbsp;</p>
<h2>Get through this Blue Monday and treat yourself&nbsp;</h2>
<p>Now the Christmas tree is down, why not fill your room with plants. Houseplants bring so much joy, from the responsibility of looking after something, to the aesthetically pleasing aspect and the toxins cleaned from the air, they give so much. So why not treat yourself to a new houseplant of your dreams? That glossy leaf Monstera, the large Orchid you’ve been looking at or the tiny succulents for an indoor planter. Plants bring so much joy!</p>
<h2>Be proud of your yourself to get through this Blue Monday&nbsp;</h2>
<p>Remember that new years resolutions get broken and don’t be hard on yourself about it. Be proud of all that you have achieved and all that you will achieve in the future. Don’t be hard on yourself; give yourself a big well done!</p>
<p>Treat yourself to a new plant in store, or just come and take a look around to help you get through the day.&nbsp;</p>

Get through this blue Monday

<p>Are you looking for a <strong>big houseplant to substitute your Christmas tree</strong>? When it is the end of the festivities and time to take your Christmas tree down, space can look a little bit bare. So why not replace the Christmas tree with another plant that will last all year, plus brings you a lot of joy, is aesthetically pleasing and even helps clean the toxins' air. A total win-win situation. Here are our top 6 for you to fill that empty space with.</p>

<p>Are you looking for a <strong>big houseplant to substitute your Christmas tree</strong>? When it is the end of the festivities and time to take your Christmas tree down, space can look a little bit bare. So why not replace the Christmas tree with another plant that will last all year, plus brings you a lot of joy, is aesthetically pleasing and even helps clean the toxins' air. A total win-win situation. Here are our top 6 for you to fill that empty space with.</p>
<h2>1. Fiddle leaf tree (Ficus lyrata)</h2>
<p>The giant green leaves of the fiddle leaf can look fantastic in any home. It is known to be tricky to keep on thriving but with just a few ‘know how’s’ it is actually quite easy. Its natural habitat is hot and humid with rainfall that soon dries out afterwards. Make sure it gets plenty of bright sunlight, water it when the soil is dry and keep it in the spot is it happy.&nbsp;</p>
<h2>2. Swiss cheese plant (Monstera)</h2>
<p>After it’s popularity in the 1970s, the Monstera has made a huge big comeback, and there is no wonder why. Big, interesting, stunning foliage, long stems and easy to propagate - the Monstera can grace a corner with ease. Pot it in a big pot to match your colour scheme and enjoy watching it grow.&nbsp;</p>
<h2>3. Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia)</h2>
<p>Bring a tropical feeling to your empty space and fill it with a stunning bird of paradise. Make sure it is in a sunny spot and be patient. It can take years for it to bloom, but when it does, it will be so worth the wait!</p>
<h2>4. Rubber tree (Ficus elastica)</h2>
<p>Growing up to 8ft tall in a home environment, the big glossy leaves bring a real touch of class to a room. Watch the leaves as they open and make sure you don’t overwater it, which is the main point of care for the rubber tree. It can cope well in low levels of light but don’t move it around too much.&nbsp;</p>
<h2>5. Dragon tree (Dracaena)</h2>
<p>An easy to care for plant that looks like a palm tree in your room. It is a lovely plant to fill a space and grows tall with little help but possibly some support if it gets big. Bright, indirect sunlight is preferred, and to stop it growing too tall. You can cut off the top and grow that in a pot of well-drained soil for another plant.&nbsp;</p>
<h2>6. Snake plant (Sansevieria)&nbsp;</h2>
<p>Also known as the Mother in laws tongue, the Sansevieria is a tall, slim and architectural plant that grows just about anywhere, even in very low light levels. With minimal water needs or care in any way, plus it will be clearing the air of common toxins.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Check out our houseplant collection in store to bring new life to your home for the new year. We are pleased to welcome you to our garden centre. Our staff is always willing to help and gives you excellent advice about watering, light, and location.</p>

Top 6 big houseplants to substitute your Christmas tree

<p><strong>January is Walk The Dog Month</strong>.&nbsp;But if you have a dog, you already know you have to walk it every day, so what’s new? Well, it turns out Walk The Dog Month is also a great way to get your own New Year off to a good start. Not only your dog needs a daily walk, but you should also reach the 10.000 steps a day! Want to know how? Here are a few ways to turn walking your dog from a chore into a treat.</p>

<p><strong>January is Walk The Dog Month</strong>.&nbsp;But if you have a dog, you already know you have to walk it every day, so what’s new? Well, it turns out Walk The Dog Month is also a great way to get your own New Year off to a good start. Not only your dog needs a daily walk, but you should also reach the 10.000 steps a day! Want to know how? Here are a few ways to turn walking your dog from a chore into a treat.</p>
<h2>Get the walking habit</h2>
<p>Were you one of the thousands of us who made a New Year’s resolution to lose weight or get fitter? The good news is, your dog can help you to achieve this resolution. Walking your dog every day forces you to get into the habit of walking yourself. And research says that if you do something regularly for three weeks, it’s much more likely to become a habit, so by the time February comes, you’ll have got both yourself and your dog into a good place for the coming year.</p>
<p>Being outdoors is an excellent mental health tonic, especially at this time of year. Take the opportunity to de-stress, get some perspective and enjoy watching for the first signs of spring to appear.</p>
<h2>Why dogs need regular walks</h2>
<p>Like us, dogs can easily put on weight over Christmas, with all the little treats, we slip them and have less chance to get outside and exercise. Obesity can be a serious problem for dogs, causing a range of health problems, including arthritis and breathing difficulties. Lack of exercise can also cause behavioural problems, leaving dogs bored and under-stimulated. Getting your dog out for a good walk every day can really help with their general fitness and behaviour.</p>
<h2>How to make walks fun for you and your dog</h2>
<p>If you and your dog both enjoy your daily walk, it’s much easier to make it a habit. These tips will help to keep things fun for both of you.</p>
<ul>
<li>
<p>Your dog needs to know you’re in charge, so walk confidently, and train them to walk beside or just behind you, not ahead, and without pulling on the lead. Reward good behaviour with treats.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>Take a leaf out of your dog’s book and practise living in the moment, appreciating the sights, sounds and scents around you as you walk.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>Leave all your screens at home and enjoy a dose of real life. Walk with a friend and spend some quality time catching up in person. Walking a dog is also a great way to get to know other people in your neighbourhood and bond over dog stories.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>Change your route occasionally to stop it getting boring. Investigate new paths and explore your neighbourhood.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>Dogs need to stay hydrated, even in cold weather, so give them plenty to drink before and after walks. On long walks, take a travel bowl and a bottle of water with you.</p>
</li>
</ul>
<p>For all those little treats, toys and extras that make taking care of your pet even more rewarding, visit our centre where you’ll find everything you need.</p>

Get into Walk The Dog Month this January

<p>Get ready to <strong>make your own plant hangers</strong> and welcome even more plants into your home and garden. There are many ways to enjoy plants, and if you are running out of room in your house or outside, it is time to think vertically. Look up and see where you can hang plants from and then get creative with these ways to make your own.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Get ready to <strong>make your own plant hangers</strong> and welcome even more plants into your home and garden. There are many ways to enjoy plants, and if you are running out of room in your house or outside, it is time to think vertically. Look up and see where you can hang plants from and then get creative with these ways to make your own.&nbsp;</p>
<h2>Get a macrame kit and make your own plant hangers&nbsp;</h2>
<p>There are many macrame kits available in shops and online that include all of the materials and instructions you need to make a great plant hanger. You can also choose from the size according to your plant pot and the colour of the materials used. It can be quite calming and therapeutic to make, and you’ll be satisfied that you made it all yourself.&nbsp;</p>
<h2>Use a clothes rail to make your own plant hangers&nbsp;</h2>
<p>Clothes rails don’t have to be just for clothes! A metal rail can be a great way to show off your houseplants and hang plants in pots from. Standing in a bedroom or your living room it can be an interesting and striking feature and a great way to display and enjoy your plants.&nbsp;</p>
<h2>Make your own plant hangers for outside&nbsp;</h2>
<p>It’s not just houseplants that can take up lots of room, but if you want to fill up your outside space with more plants as well, you can use walls and fences to hang up baskets and fill with your favourite plants. Get creative and make plant hangers from recycled materials you have in the home or garden. Otherwise, grab a new hanging basket and use that instead!&nbsp;</p>
<h2>Different ways to make your own plant hangers&nbsp;</h2>
<p>A great idea for using inside or outside is to make your own plant shelves that you can hang your macrame hangers and other creative hangers from.</p>
<p>Make six thin wooden shelves of equal length, and attach them all with rope, so they each hang one under the other with enough space on each shelf to hang your plants from. This can be used outside for displays of plants such as Pelargoniums or a shady spot full of Ferns. Inside, take your pick from your favourite houseplants, especially those that trail such as Tradescantia, Hoya and Pothos.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Whichever you choose, think about all of the different materials around the house that you could use. Can old metal coat hangers be made into plant hangers? What about old belts, ribbons and even upturned pots and upside-down plants. You can make something really special and add a touch of your own personality as well.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Check out our trailing plants in store and find your perfect hanging plants.&nbsp;</p>

Make your own plant hangers

<p>It’s January again, time to kickstart the New Year. Are you ready to begin the New Year with a <strong>fresh start for your home and garden</strong>? Banish the winter blues with a few feel-good activities that will boost your mood and get your house and garden into shape for the year.</p>

<p>It’s January again, time to kickstart the New Year. Are you ready to begin the New Year with a <strong>fresh start for your home and garden</strong>? Banish the winter blues with a few feel-good activities that will boost your mood and get your house and garden into shape for the year.</p>
<h2>1. Recycle your Christmas tree</h2>
<p>If you bought a real Christmas tree, don’t forget to leave it out for your local council to collect and recycle. Or if it’s small enough and you have your own garden shredder, shred it yourself and use it as mulch around shrubs and trees.</p>
<h2>2. Save those cardboard boxes</h2>
<p>When you’re getting rid of all those cardboard boxes from online deliveries, save a few, tear them up and put them in a pile in your shed so that you can add them to your compost heap or bin gradually during the year. Adding ‘brown’ material like cardboard helps to keep your compost aerated and stops all the soft green material from grass and cuttings from turning into mush.</p>
<h2>3. Sow some seeds</h2>
<p>Planting seeds is a statement of faith in the future, and we can all do with some of that when it’s cold and dark in January. Give yourself a dose of positive thinking by buying a few of your favourite seed packets.&nbsp;</p>
<h2>4. Buy a houseplant</h2>
<p>There’s any amount of research to demonstrate that being around nature is good for us, reducing stress and improving our mood. And when the garden is looking bleak, houseplants are a great solution. Whether you choose orchids for their gorgeous flowers, begonias for their fabulous foliage or peace plants for their indestructibility, having a few houseplants around is sure to boost your mood.</p>
<h2>5. Get outside</h2>
<p>Even if it’s just for ten minutes a day, get out into the garden or go for a walk around your neighbourhood and have a look at what’s growing. You’ll be amazed at how much start appearing, even this early in the year. Daffodils and snowdrops will be popping up, hellebores and cyclamens are flowering, and buds are starting to swell even on the barest-looking trees.</p>
<h2>6. Plant something scented</h2>
<p>January’s a great time to plant trees, provided the ground isn’t actually frozen or waterlogged, and it’s also the best month for many winter-scented plants. Witch hazel, viburnum, sarcococca and mahonia are all in flower this month, so if your garden is feeling the winter blues, pop out to your garden centre and buy yourself a scented plant. You’ll be reaping the benefits for years to come.</p>
<h2>7. Visit a winter garden</h2>
<p>Gardens planted especially with winter in mind are a tonic at this time of year, alight with colour from colourful stems and bark and bursting with winter-flowering plants. You’re sure to come away feeling better and filled with inspiration. Search online to find your nearest winter garden.</p>
<p>Need some ideas for your home and garden this year? Come and see our exciting ranges of plants and homeware in the centre.</p>

A fresh start for your home and garden

<p>It’s time to <strong>start making plans for your kitchen garden</strong> and get ready for growing your own food and cut flowers in abundance. Kitchen gardens are great to make the most of the space outside your back door. They can be small spaces or larger but always very productive and look great. Here are some things to get started when planning your kitchen garden.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It’s time to <strong>start making plans for your kitchen garden</strong> and get ready for growing your own food and cut flowers in abundance. Kitchen gardens are great to make the most of the space outside your back door. They can be small spaces or larger but always very productive and look great. Here are some things to get started when planning your kitchen garden.&nbsp;</p>
<h2>Know some background to start making plans for your kitchen garden&nbsp;</h2>
<p>More often known as the ‘potager’&nbsp; by the French, kitchen gardens were much more popular before the victorian era when more formal gardens became the trend. After this, many gardens were much smaller or non-existent, and this changed how the food was produced. But more recently, as people would like to know where and how their food has been produced, kitchen gardens have become more popular.&nbsp;</p>
<h2>Start making plans for your kitchen garden and keep your design in mind&nbsp;</h2>
<p>The kitchen garden is usually designed with the shape of the garden that you have, so aesthetically it is in keeping with the theme and style of the home. They tend to be symmetrical, designed well to both look great but also be very productive. Think of shapes like circles, diamonds, squares or hearts. At our garden centre, we offer many materials to create a lovely design for your kitchen garden. Dividing your kitchen garden into squares is nevertheless an excellent thing to do. This way, you know exactly how much space a vegetable or fruit needs.&nbsp;</p>
<h2>Consider your aspect when you start making plans for your kitchen garden&nbsp;</h2>
<p>To grow plenty of vegetables and cut flowers you will want to maximise sunshine, so check out where the sun is in your garden and plan where you will grow based on the aspect. Decide where your beds will be the best place to achieve maximum sun for the plants you are going to grow.&nbsp;</p>
<h2>Start making plans for your kitchen garden with raised beds</h2>
<p>If you already have beds, that's great news but if not or you want more growing space, raised beds are used a great deal in kitchen gardens. They make access easy to reach in, grow your plants, fill with compost and all-round general care. Plus they look great!</p>
<h2>What do you want to grow when you start making plans for your kitchen garden?&nbsp;</h2>
<p>The most important thing to consider is what you want to grow.</p>
<ul>
<li>Think about things that you eat and use, perhaps vegetables that you can’t buy so easily or are expensive.</li>
<li>Perhaps some cut flowers that you enjoy and plenty of herbs! Kitchen gardens are traditionally full of leafy green vegetables, companion plants and many herbs.</li>
<li>A great benefit is that you can pop outside and freshly harvest what you need to cook with for your meals and the taste of fresh homegrown produce is by far the very best!&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
<p>We can help you build your kitchen garden with lots of products and plants in store.&nbsp;</p>

Start making plans for your kitchen garden

<p><span id="docs-internal-guid-2b8c6834-7fff-3a1c-4d46-58404ea20823">The New Year is here and it’s time to start thinking about your gardening plans for the year. On a clear, crisp winter’s day, there’s nothing nicer than getting outside for a couple of hours gardening, then warming up again indoors with a hot drink. Here are some of the <strong>garden jobs you could start off with in January</strong>.</span></p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-2b8c6834-7fff-3a1c-4d46-58404ea20823">The New Year is here, and it’s time to start thinking about your gardening plans for the year. On a clear, crisp winter’s day, there’s nothing nicer than getting outside for a couple of hours gardening, then warming up again indoors with a hot drink. Here are some of the <strong>garden jobs you could start within January</strong>.</span></p>
<ol style="list-style-type:decimal;">
<li dir="ltr">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><span id="docs-internal-guid-2b8c6834-7fff-3a1c-4d46-58404ea20823">Provided the ground isn’t frozen or waterlogged, now is the ideal time to plant shrubs, trees and hedging.</span></p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" value="2">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><span id="docs-internal-guid-2b8c6834-7fff-3a1c-4d46-58404ea20823">Cut back any remaining perennials that have gone soggy and clear the debris away, so it doesn’t shelter slugs and snails. Cut back the flower heads of ornamental grasses if winter rains have damaged them.</span></p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" value="3">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><span id="docs-internal-guid-2b8c6834-7fff-3a1c-4d46-58404ea20823">January’s a good time to give wisteria its winter pruning. Cut back last year’s summer shoots to 2-3 buds from the main framework and in a few months, you should have a wisteria smothered in flowers.</span></p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" value="4">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><span id="docs-internal-guid-2b8c6834-7fff-3a1c-4d46-58404ea20823">Prune roses now while they are dormant. Remove all spindly or crossing branches and dead wood, then cut back the remaining branches by a third, using a sloping cut just above a bud so that rainwater runs off the cut, away from the bud.</span></p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" value="5">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><span id="docs-internal-guid-2b8c6834-7fff-3a1c-4d46-58404ea20823">Deadhead winter pansies for a second flush of flowers in spring.</span></p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" value="6">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><span id="docs-internal-guid-2b8c6834-7fff-3a1c-4d46-58404ea20823">Remove any yellowing leaves from Brussels sprouts, kale and other brassicas, as these can harbour pests and diseases.</span></p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" value="7">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><span id="docs-internal-guid-2b8c6834-7fff-3a1c-4d46-58404ea20823">If you are planning on sowing early peas, warm the ground now by placing fleece or cloches over it for a few weeks.</span></p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" value="8">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><span id="docs-internal-guid-2b8c6834-7fff-3a1c-4d46-58404ea20823">Cut off last year’s old hellebore leaves so that you can see the flowers better. This also prevents the spread of diseases like hellebore black spots.</span></p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" value="9">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><span id="docs-internal-guid-2b8c6834-7fff-3a1c-4d46-58404ea20823">Clean pots and greenhouses, ready for this year’s seedlings and cuttings.</span></p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" value="10">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><span id="docs-internal-guid-2b8c6834-7fff-3a1c-4d46-58404ea20823">Check stored dahlia and begonia bulbs to make sure they are not drying out. Throw out any that are showing signs of rotting.</span></p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" value="11">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><span id="docs-internal-guid-2b8c6834-7fff-3a1c-4d46-58404ea20823">Food is scarce for birds at this time of year, so keep your bird feeders and baths topped up.</span></p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" value="12">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><span id="docs-internal-guid-2b8c6834-7fff-3a1c-4d46-58404ea20823">Prune apple and pear trees now, as well as blackcurrants, gooseberries and redcurrants.</span></p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" value="13">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><span id="docs-internal-guid-2b8c6834-7fff-3a1c-4d46-58404ea20823">Put a bucket or large bin over rhubarb crowns to force them, giving you tender pink stems in a couple of months.</span></p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" value="14">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><span id="docs-internal-guid-2b8c6834-7fff-3a1c-4d46-58404ea20823">Keep off the lawn when it’s frosty or covered in snow, as walking on frozen grass will damage it.&nbsp;</span></p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" value="15">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><span id="docs-internal-guid-2b8c6834-7fff-3a1c-4d46-58404ea20823">Not all gardening jobs need to be done outdoors in the cold. While things are quiet outdoors in January, spend some time just looking at your garden and planning what to plant this year.&nbsp;</span></p>
</li>
</ol>
<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-2b8c6834-7fff-3a1c-4d46-58404ea20823">Make this year your best gardening year yet. And whatever you need for your garden, whether it’s tools, seeds or plants, you’ll find them all in our centre, so come and visit us soon.</span></p>

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