PLANT & DESIGN INSPIRATION
Inspiration from our Creative Team here at Nicholsons
Plant & Design Inspiration
An Autumnal Tree Collection
By Ella Geden-Davies This year, we have curated a collection of ornamental trees within the nursery. With planting season soon approaching, browse the suggestions below to learn about their features and the ideal planting location to guarantee optimum health and longevity. Juglans regia - Walnut The humble walnut is a graceful and handsome tree with feather-like leaves in groups of 5-9.Read more »
The Mighty World of Seeds
By Libby Reeves Seeds are nearly always taken for granted. We buy packets and lose them down the back of a cupboard, the dog chews the packet, or a gust of wind carries them to areas where we don't want or need them. We plant them out in little lines then go along a few weeks later and pull half of them out as we have 'too many in a row'. The wildflower seeds that getRead more »
Plea for a Summerhouse
By Liz NicholsonChildhood memories of dens, treehouses and shepherd’s huts set the scene for often chasing the “home beyond the house walls”.In my case, the shepherd’s hut was the real deal, abandoned in a leafy beech woodland on a bucolic Cotswold estate. The shepherd’s hut of my childhood was scarce in its furnishings, bare in fact, with apple-green walls and a rusty, old stove. As kids, we would set up home there and while away summer days:Read more »
Nature-Based Activities for the Summer Holidays
By Oliver Ong The arrival of August means that we are firmly in school summer holiday season, which brings with it an excellent opportunity for families to come together and enjoy the outdoors. This week’s blog presents a selection of fun activities to entertain you and your family throughout the holidays. From outdoor pursuits to hands-on gardening experiences, these activities promise a fulfilling summer for all families. Nature Walks:Read more »
‘Summer Branch Drop’
Article prepared by Sam Hargreaves, Arboricultural Services Manager The hottest June weather on record will not have been so welcome to our teams on the tools, in particular the guys and gals suiting up in chainsaw trousers, boots and helmets to undertake the strenuous work arboriculture requires of them. But for the vast majority, the warm weather has been a chance to get outside and enjoy the many delights their gardens haveRead more »
Sustainable Water Resource
By Liz Nicholson We will all be aware that the climate is giving hectic rainfall patterns, demonstrated locally with no rainfall in the month of May. Water security is of great concern across the entire population and, at Nicholsons, we are working hard to play our part in supporting long-term water security. Our forestry division is planting trees on non-agricultural sloping hillsides to increase infiltration and avoid excessive run-off. Projects are underplanted with soil-improving plants thatRead more »
The Evolutions of Plants
By Libby Reeves The evolution of animals is widely known and monopolized. Dinosaurs have been used in films, books, and many other mediums for knowledge and entertainment. The backstory of humanity evolving from apes is used in a similar way. However, plants have evolved alongside these ancient beasts, and their history is equally important. Without plants, we simply wouldn't be here. All living beings from the animal kingdom breatheRead more »
The Timeless Beauty of Topiary Trees: Elevating Gardens with Artful Sculptures
Gardens have always been spaces of natural beauty and serenity, but some gardeners seek to take their green sanctuaries to a whole new level. Enter topiary trees—the living sculptures that add a touch of artistry and whimsy to outdoor spaces. With their carefully trimmed forms and meticulous designs, topiary trees have captured the imagination of garden enthusiasts for centuries. In this blog, we will look at topiary trees, the variety of options, their history, techniques, andRead more »
Gardening Tips For Summer
As the warmth of summer approaches, it's time to prepare your garden for the vibrant and flourishing season ahead. Whether you're an experienced gardener or just starting out, a little preparation can go a long way in ensuring a successful and thriving garden. In this blog, we will explore some essential gardening tips to help you get your garden ready for the summer months. 1. Clear Out and CleanRead more »