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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>