Welcome to November in the Garden
As autumn fades and winter approaches, November is the perfect month to prepare your garden for the colder days ahead.
Whether you’re tidying up fallen leaves, planting for next spring, or bringing colour indoors, our Potting Shed team has plenty of advice to keep your garden looking beautiful through the season.
This month, Alex shares his top gardening jobs, David picks a plant that brings colour through winter, and Oli introduces a cheerful festive houseplant to brighten your home. Plus — don’t miss our new arrivals and Moor Rewards member offers!
Alex’s Gardening Jobs for November
Here’s what Alex recommends for your November gardening checklist:
🌹 Plant roses, trees, and shrubs before the cold weather sets in.
🍂 Collect fallen leaves and make your own nutrient-rich leaf mould.
🪴 Lift pots off the ground using pot feet to prevent waterlogging or frozen compost.
❄️ Dig up dahlia tubers after the first frosts and store in a cool, dark place.
🌿 Protect tree ferns by packing the crown with straw and wrapping in fleece.
🧣 Wrap containers with fleece or bubble wrap to prevent frost damage.
🌷 Keep planting spring bulbs – there’s still time!
🌼 Lift and divide perennials to improve plant health for next year.
“It’s all about getting ahead this month,” says Alex, our Potting Shed Manager and Horticultural Expert. “A little work now makes all the difference when spring returns.”
November Plants of the Month
Plant of the month
Erica gracilis
Chosen by David, our plant specialist, Erica gracilis brings much-needed colour to the garden during the darker months.
A low-growing evergreen, Erica gracilis flowers from autumn through to spring, providing much-needed colour in the winter months. It works beautifully on its own or mixed with seasonal favourites such as pansies, violas, and primroses. Flower colours typically range from pink to red or white.
David’s Top Care Tips:
- Thrives in full sun or partial shade
- Plant in well-drained soil
- Reaches 20–30cm at maturity
- Ideal for borders or winter containers
Houseplant of the month
Schlumbergera (Christmas Cacti)
Chosen by Oli
Bring a burst of tropical colour indoors with Oli’s pick of the month — the Christmas Cactus.
Oli’s Care Tips for Your Christmas Cactus
- Light: Prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid harsh sun, which can scorch or fade the leaves.
- Water: In spring and summer, water when the top soil feels dry. In autumn and winter, water less to give the plant a rest.
- Humidity: Enjoys a little extra humidity – a light mist now and then keeps it happy.
- Temperature: Likes 18–24°C. During autumn and winter, allow two short rest periods in cooler conditions.
looking after houseplants
✨ Wrap Up the Season with Moss & Moor
From pruning and planting to brightening your home with seasonal colour, November is full of opportunities to enjoy your garden.
While you’re preparing for winter, don’t forget to explore our Gardening Page for the New In range and our Potting Shed Moor Rewards offers — from garden tools and winter bedding to festive treats and exclusive member savings, there’s something to inspire every gardener this season.
Let’s keep your garden thriving — there’s always something to discover at Moss & Moor!
As the seasons shift and autumn settles in, the garden is full of little jobs that make a big difference. This month, Alex shares his essential gardening tasks to keep everything looking its best, while we shine a spotlight on our houseplant and outdoor plant of the month – perfect for adding colour and life both indoors and out. And if you’re a Moor Rewards member, don’t miss our latest Potting Shed offers to help you get set for the season ahead.
Our horticultural expert, Alex, shares his essential jobs for this month:
October is the perfect time to plant trees and shrubs – the soil is still warm, giving roots the best start before winter.
Show your lawn a little love with an autumn feed to keep it healthy through the colder months.
Help our prickly friends prepare for hibernation. A hedgehog house in a quiet corner of your garden makes the ideal winter home.
Pop garlic cloves in the ground now – that essential chill will help them develop beautifully.
Keep planting spring bulbs for a burst of colour and joy next year.
As the days shorten, garden birds need a helping hand. Our bird feeders, tables and seed will keep them well fed and visiting your garden all season.
Rake up fallen leaves and store them – they’ll transform into rich, crumbly leaf mould in time.
Brighten up your doorstep with cheerful autumn pots and baskets, filled with heathers, cyclamen and violas.
Alex’s Gardening Tips for October
October Plants of the Month
Plant of the month
heather ‘Twin Girls’
Chosen by Kerstin
Bring a splash of colour to your garden just when it needs it most.
Bees will still visit for those precious late-season flowers.
Pretty pink and white buds appear from late summer and shine right through autumn.
Sturdy, closed-bud form means they stand strong against wind and rain.
Compact, evergreen and perfect for pots, borders, or cheerful groundcover.
Kerstin’s Top Care Tips:
Plant in a sunny spot with well-drained, acidic soil, and give it a light trim after flowering to keep it neat and bushy for years to come.
Houseplant of the month
Indoor Cyclamen
Chosen by David
Bright and showy, Cyclamen bring a touch of colour indoors for up to six weeks of flowering with the right care.
Not pet-friendly.
Deadhead regularly to encourage new buds.
David’s Top Care Tips
- Light: Bright but indirect light. Keep cool (10–15°C) – too much warmth can cause early dormancy.
- Watering: Keep soil moist but not soggy. Best watered from below by standing in a tray of water and allowing the soil to soak it up.
- Re-flowering: Naturally goes dormant in spring.
- Allow soil to dry slightly, then store in a cool, dry, shaded spot over summer. Bring it back into the light when flowering starts again in September.
looking after houseplants
Visit Moss & Moor This October
As summer fades and autumn begins to show its colours, September is the perfect month to prepare your garden for the seasons ahead. Here’s everything happening this month at Moss & Moor – from Alex’s top gardening tips to our latest arrivals, featured plants, and Moor Rewards offers.
Our horticultural expert, Alex, shares his essential jobs for this month:
Pot up containers & baskets – fill them with violas, pansies and cyclamen for bursts of autumn colour.
Plant spring bulbs – daffodils, tulips and crocus can be planted now for dazzling displays next year.
Lawn care – scarify with a rake, feed, and re-seed any bare patches.
Care for wildlife – clean out bird feeders and restock ready for hungry visitors as the weather cools.
Secure plants – use tree and shrub ties to protect against autumn winds.
Tidy paths & patios – give surfaces a good scrub to remove slippery moss and algae.
Mulch bare soil – enrich and protect your beds with farmyard manure, bark, or Strulch mulch.
Keep colour going – deadhead late-flowering plants to extend their display into early autumn.
Alex’s Gardening Tips for September
September Plants of the Month
Plant of the month
Echinacea (Coneflowers)
Chosen by Kerstin
Echinacea are easy-to-grow perennials that bring bold colour to the garden from midsummer onwards. Thriving in sunny spots, they’re a favourite with bees and butterflies and need little care once established.
Plant them in well-drained soil, water well in their first year, and then enjoy their drought tolerance. Deadhead spent flowers for more blooms, or leave the seed heads standing for striking winter interest and natural bird food.
Kerstin’s Top Care Tips:
☀️ Plant in full sun, in well-drained soil
💧 Water regularly in the first year
🌱 Avoid rich soil (can make stems floppy)
✂️ Deadhead for more flowers
🐦 Leave seed heads for winter interest & birds
Houseplant of the month
Anthurium (Flamingo Flower)
Chosen by David
With glossy green leaves and striking blooms in a variety of colours, Anthuriums add a vibrant tropical feel to any room. In their native Caribbean and South American habitats, these plants grow as epiphytes in the nooks of trees — bringing a little rainforest magic indoors.
David’s Top Care Tips
- Light – Needs bright, indirect light to flower (too shady and it won’t bloom).
- Water – Allow the top few inches of soil to dry before watering. Avoid overwatering or soggy roots.
- Temperature – Keep warm, ideally above 15°C, and away from draughts.
- Humidity – Loves humidity – mist regularly for best results.
- Height – Slow-growing, reaching around 1m tall.
A stunning plant, but best admired in pet-free spaces.
looking after houseplants
Visit Moss & Moor This September
As the garden basks in late summer warmth, it’s the perfect time to get outside and make the most of the season — whether you’re harvesting, trimming, planting or simply enjoying a quiet cuppa among the blooms.
Here’s what we’re loving this August…
Our horticultural expert, Alex, has put together his top Tips to keep your garden looking its best this mONTH:
Collect summer rain in water butts to use during dry spells — your plants will thank you for it later!
Feed tomato plants regularly with a good tomato feed, and water consistently for a healthy harvest.
Mow wildflower meadows to help scatter seeds and encourage next year’s flowers.
Give hedges their final trim of the season, but check carefully for nesting birds first.
Support local wildlife — leave out water and hedgehog food to help fatten up hoglets before hibernation.
Tidy up hanging baskets and containers with regular deadheading, feeding and watering.
Protect ripening fruit like blackberries from birds with netting or fleece.
Pinch out tomato tops so all the plant’s energy goes into ripening the fruits.
Alex’s Gardening Tips for August
aUGUST gardening TiPS of the Season: Smarter Watering
As the summer rolls on, smart watering makes all the difference. Here’s Alex’s advice this season:
💧 Water early or late in the day — when the sun’s not too strong, so less water evaporates.
🌿 Soak deeply, not little and often — this encourages roots to grow downwards where it’s cooler.
🍅 Focus on the base of the plant — avoid splashing the leaves, which can encourage disease.
🪴 Group pots together — they’ll shade each other and reduce water loss.
🌧️ Make the most of summer rain — set up water butts and save every drop!
Need help choosing the right tools? Ask in-store — Alex and the team are happy to recommend the best hoses, watering cans or irrigation kits for your garden size.
August Plants of the Month
Plant of the month
Verbena bonariensis
Chosen by Nigel Eaton
If you’re looking for a plant that brings effortless height, colour and movement to your garden, Verbena bonariensis is one to try. With its delicate lilac flowers dancing on tall, slender stems, it adds a lovely lightness to borders and tall containers — all while flowering from mid-summer well into autumn.
Nigel recommends pairing it with Black Eyed Susie (Thunbergia alata), a fast-growing annual climber with tangerine-orange blooms that weave beautifully through the verbena’s upright stems. The cool lilac and warm orange tones make a stunning late-summer combination.
Why we love it:
🌸 Long-lasting flowers
☀️ Loves a sunny spot
🪴 Perfect for borders and containers
🌿 Pairs beautifully with climbers
Pop into the Potting Shed to pick some up while they’re still in bloom — and ask our team for more late-summer planting ideas!
Houseplant of the month
Calathea
Chosen by David
This month, we’re celebrating the beautiful Calathea, also known as the prayer plant for its habit of moving its leaves throughout the day. With stunning foliage and a tropical feel, it’s a standout addition to any indoor space.
Why we love it:
- Pet friendly
- Air purifying
- Packed with personality
Care tip: Calatheas love a bit of humidity, so place them in kitchens or bathrooms — or boost moisture with regular misting.
looking after houseplants
Visit Moss & Moor This August
🌼 Don’t forget: Moor Rewards members enjoy exclusive offers on plants, pots, feeds and more this month. Ask in-store for details or view some of our favourite offers here.
The warmth of July brings growth, colour and a garden full of life. It’s a busy month outdoors, from keeping bedding plants in bloom to checking in on wildlife and watering wisely. Whether you’re relaxing in a shady spot or potting up something new, we’ve gathered our favourite gardening tips and plant picks to help you make the most of the summer season.
Alex’s Gardening Jobs for July
Alex shares his top gardening tips for July to help your garden stay strong through the heat:
Cover brassicas with insect mesh to prevent damage from cabbage white butterflies
Feed and deadhead summer bedding plants to keep them blooming
Top up bird baths daily to support garden wildlife
Use a lawn feed to maintain lush, green grass
Water newly planted shrubs and flowers regularly while they settle in
Watch out for pests like vine weevil, lily beetle and slugs
Remove blanket weed from ponds – leave it by the edge so wildlife can crawl back in
Sow quick-growing salad leaves for a fresh summer harvest
Water tomatoes daily to prevent blossom end rot
Use supports for tall plants to protect them in wind or rain
July Plants of the Month
Plant of the month
Miscanthus
Chosen by Kerstin
“Miscanthus is one of those plants that quietly does it all – structure, softness, movement and wildlife value. It’s a real garden workhorse with elegance to spare.” – Kerstin
This month, Kerstin has picked Miscanthus, also known as Chinese silver grass – a striking, easy-to-grow ornamental grass that adds bold texture and graceful movement to any border. It’s perfect for softening hard landscaping, adding height, and supporting wildlife with its airy plumes and seed heads.
Why we love it:
- Tall and architectural
- Drought-tolerant once established
- Great for wildlife – birds love the shelter and seeds
- Works beautifully in naturalistic planting schemes or modern borders
Kerstin’s Care Tips:
Pair with late summer perennials for seasonal colour ect shady spot? Speak with Kerstin and the team next time you visit 🌿
Plant in well-drained soil in a sunny spot
Cut back old growth in late winter or early spring
Leave seed heads over winter for wildlife interest
Houseplant of the month
Sansevieria
Chosen by David
David’s houseplant highlight this month is the ultra-dependable Sansevieria, also known as the snake plant. With its striking, upright leaves and air-purifying powers, it brings calm, structure and greenery to indoor spaces with minimal effort.
Why it’s a favourite:
- Extremely low maintenance
- Ideal for beginners
- Air purifying and drought tolerant
- Great for homes or offices
David’s Care Tips:
Keep away from pets and little ones
Best in bright, indirect light, but copes well with shade
Water only when the soil is completely dry
Avoid overwatering – this plant hates soggy roots
looking after houseplants
Visit Moss & Moor This July
Whether you’re shopping for easy-care houseplants, choosing the perfect ornamental grass, or looking for expert gardening advice, our team is always happy to help. Explore our garden centre for tools, seasonal plants and inspiration to keep your outdoor space flourishing through summer.
🌼 Don’t forget: Moor Rewards members enjoy exclusive offers on plants, pots, feeds and more this month. Ask in-store for details or view some of our favourite offers here.
Alex’s June Gardening Tips
Your monthly guide from Alex, plus plant picks from Kerstin and David
Welcome to our June gardening update – your monthly source of inspiration, advice, and plant favourites, straight from our team at Moss & Moor.
June is a busy month outdoors, with plenty to do to keep your garden looking its best. Here are Alex’s top gardening jobs to tackle this month:
- Feed baskets and containers every 2–4 weeks with a liquid fertiliser
- Support tall perennials with canes or metal rings
- Boost your lawn with a seasonal feed treatment
- Sow biennials like wallflowers, foxgloves and honesty
- Check roses for black spot and mildew – spray if needed
- Stay on top of weeds – use hoeing or weed fabric
- Tie in new growth on climbing plants (clematis, honeysuckle, etc.)
- Keep bird baths topped up in dry weather
- Apply a mulch to help retain moisture around your plants
June Plants of the Month
Plant of the month
Chosen by Kerstin
Astilbe
“Astilbes are wonderful for brightening up those tricky shady spots – they’re low-maintenance, yet so rewarding.” – Kerstin
This month, Kerstin has picked Astilbe – a graceful, shade-loving perennial that brings elegant texture and long-lasting colour to the garden. Loved for its feathery plumes and reliable blooms, Astilbe is ideal for damp, semi-shady borders or woodland-style planting.
Why We Love It:
- Shade tolerant
- Moisture-loving
- Adds softness and structure
Kerstin’s Top Care Tips:
Maintenance: Mulch yearly and divide every few years
Light: Best in partial shade, tolerates sun if kept moist
Soil: Moist, humus-rich, and well-drained
Some of our favourites:
💗 Astilbe ‘Deutschland’ (soft pink)
❤️ Astilbe ‘Fanal’ (deep red)
💜 Astilbe ‘Amethyst’ (lilac-pink)
Looking for advice on planting the perfect shady spot? Speak with Kerstin and the team next time you visit 🌿
Houseplant of the month
Chosen by David
Aglaonema
“Aglaonemas are so easy to live with – beautiful, undemanding, and full of character.” – David
David’s pick for June is the Aglaonema, also known as Chinese Evergreen. With its stunning patterned leaves in silvers, greens and pinks, it adds elegance and calm to any indoor space. Even better? It’s low maintenance, air purifying, and perfect for beginners.
David’s Top Care Tips:
Light: Bright, indirect light is ideal – paler varieties need more light
Water: Water when the top few inches of soil are dry
Humidity: Mist regularly for best growth
Height: Can grow up to 1 metre
Pet safety note: Keep out of reach of children and pets.
Need help choosing the right houseplant for your home? David and the team are always happy to help!
looking after houseplants
Alex’s May Gardening Tips
Your monthly guide from Alex, plus plant picks from Kerstin and David
As the days grow longer and the garden bursts into life, May is the perfect time to get outside and enjoy the new season. Whether you’re sowing seeds, planting summer colour, or caring for houseplants, there’s plenty to do — and we’re here to help.
Our garden expert Alex shares his top jobs for the month to keep your garden looking its best:
Plant out tomatoes in grow bags or large pots, and tie them to a support system.
Sow grass seed to repair patchy lawns or establish new ones.
Earth up potatoes, covering green shoots with soil to protect from frost and encourage strong growth.
Use a liquid feed on spring bulbs that have finished flowering – it helps next year’s display.
Net soft fruits like strawberries and currants to keep the birds at bay.
Hang pheromone traps on apple and plum trees to monitor and control pests.
Protect young plants from slugs and snails using eco-friendly methods like beer traps or wool pellets.
Keep fleece handy for any surprise late frosts.
Install a water butt to collect spring showers and save on water in summer.
mAY Plants of the Month
Plant of the month
Chosen by Kerstin
GEUM
Kerstin’s pick for May is the ever-reliable Geum – a bright, cheerful perennial that adds a vibrant splash of colour to borders. Blooming from late spring through summer, Geums are hardy, easy to grow, and beautifully long-flowering.
You’ll find stunning varieties at Moss & Moor including:
- Totally Tangerine – fiery orange blooms
- Mrs J. Bradshaw – rich ruffled red
- Mai Tai – soft apricot tones
Perfect for cottage-style borders, Geums pair beautifully with ornamental grasses and early summer perennials. Deadhead regularly for months of colour and joy.
“Geums are such happy plants – so easy to grow and full of colour for months on end.” – Kerstin
Houseplant of the month
Chosen by David
Dieffenbachia (Leopard Lily)
David has chosen the bold and beautiful Dieffenbachia this month – a houseplant with striking tropical foliage and rich variegated patterns. It’s perfect for brightening up indoor spaces and makes a real statement.
🪴 Care Tips
Likes bright, indirect light – avoid direct sun
Keep the soil lightly moist, watering when the top inch dries out
Enjoys high humidity – mist regularly
Prefers warm spots between 18–24°C
“I love Dieffenbachia for its bold, tropical leaves – it’s an easy way to add a real splash of colour and life to your home.” – David
⚠️ Please note: Dieffenbachia is not pet- or child-friendly, so keep out of reach and wash hands after handling.
looking after houseplants
Alex’s Gardening Tips for April
Spring into Action
As spring takes hold, the garden bursts into life—and so do the weeds and pests! April is a key month for sowing, planting, and protecting your garden from the unpredictable British weather. Here’s what to focus on this month:
Lawn Care
Now’s the perfect time to sow lawn seed and repair any bare patches after winter. We stock a variety of lawn seed to suit every garden, from shaded areas to high-traffic lawns.
Weed Control
As temperatures rise, so do the weeds! Keep them in check with our range of hand tools or choose from chemical-free and targeted weed control options available in-store.
Protect New Shoots from Slugs & Snails
Young plant shoots are irresistible to slugs and snails. Try environmentally friendly deterrents such as beer traps, wool pellets, or copper tape to keep them at bay without harming wildlife.
Help Garden Birds Through Breeding Season
Keep bird feeders topped up this month to support birds as they raise their young. We stock a variety of high-quality bird food to keep your feathered visitors well-fed.
Shield Tender Plants from Frost
Late frosts can still catch us out in April! Protect tender plants with horticultural fleece or cloches, both available in-store.
Freshen Up Paths & Patios
Give your garden a spring refresh by cleaning paths and patios. Remove slippery algae and moss using our selection of brushes and path cleaners for a safer, neater space.
Plant Potatoes & “Earth-Up”
Now is the time to plant potatoes. Remember to earth-up by covering new shoots with soil as they grow—this stops light from reaching the tubers and protects them from frost.
Sow Hardy Annual Seeds
Direct sow hardy annual seeds such as Nigella, Calendula, radish, and peas. These easy-grow favourites bring colour and fresh produce to your garden.
Time to Plant Summer-Flowering Bulbs
For a stunning summer display, plant summer-flowering bulbs such as Dahlias, Lilies, and Gladioli. We still have a great selection available in The Potting Shed—pop in and take your pick!
April Plants of the Month
Plant of the month
Chosen by Kerstin
azalea & rhoDoDendron
For a spectacular spring display, Azaleas and Rhododendrons are a must-have. Their vibrant blooms and lush foliage bring colour and structure to any garden, thriving in partially shaded, sheltered spots with acidic, well-drained soil. If your garden has alkaline soil, they will flourish in raised beds or containers filled with ericaceous compost.
“For something a little different, try the variety ‘Silver Edge’, which boasts striking variegated foliage. Mix different varieties to extend the blooming season and enjoy a long-lasting floral display.” – Kerstin
Kerstin’s Top Care Tips:
🌿 Planting – Best planted in early spring or autumn to help establish strong roots.
💧 Watering – Use rainwater whenever possible, as tap water can alter soil acidity. Apply mulch to retain moisture and protect roots.
🌱 Feeding – Apply an ericaceous fertiliser in spring and after flowering to support healthy growth.
✂️ Pruning – Minimal maintenance required—just remove dead flowers and damaged branches as needed.
🦋 Wildlife Benefits – These plants attract pollinators and provide shelter for birds, making them a fantastic choice for a wildlife-friendly garden.
Houseplant of the month
Chosen by David
Oxalis triangularis (Purple Shamrock)
“I love the Purple Shamrock for its deep purple leaves and how they fold up at night—it’s a plant with real personality!” – David
This month, David has chosen the Purple Shamrock, a striking houseplant known for its rich purple, heart-shaped leaves that resemble a shamrock. Adding to its charm, the leaves open in the morning and close at night, a fascinating movement designed to conserve moisture.
Not only is it easy to care for, but it also purifies the air, making it a fantastic addition to any home.
David’s Top Care Tips:
💧 Watering – Allow the top two inches of soil to dry out before watering. Avoid overwatering, as sitting in water can cause root rot.
☀️ Light – Thrives in bright, indirect light. Keep out of harsh direct sunlight, which may scorch the leaves.
🌿 Humidity – If the leaves start to crisp or brown, mist the plant regularly to increase humidity.
🍂 Dormancy – In winter, Oxalis may enter a dormant phase, where leaves die back. Reduce watering and wait for new shoots to appear before resuming normal care.
⚠️ Pet Warning – Not pet-friendly, so keep it out of reach of curious cats and dogs.
looking after houseplants
Alex’s Gardening Tips for March
Spring is here! Our March gardening guide covers everything you need to do this month—from planting hardy annuals to preparing your soil for the growing season.
Spring is just around the corner, and March is the perfect time to give your garden a refresh and get ready for the growing season ahead. Here are some key jobs to tackle this month:
Spring Clean & Tidy Up
A little effort now will set your garden up for success later! Sweep paths, clear debris, and prune back dead growth to make way for fresh shoots. We’ve got a great selection of brushes, garden tidy bags, and secateurs in-store to help you get started.
Protect New Growth
As plants start to wake up, so do slugs and snails! Use wool pellets or beer traps to keep them away from tender new shoots without harming wildlife.
Lawn Care Begins
Give your lawn a spring feed to help it recover from winter and encourage lush, green growth. A little attention now will make all the difference in the months to come.
Harvest Rainwater
Install a water butt now to collect valuable rainfall – it’s an easy way to make your garden more sustainable and keep plants hydrated during dry spells.
Create a Wildflower Meadow
Sow wildflower seeds this month to create a haven for bees and butterflies. A simple mix of native flowers will bring colour and biodiversity to your garden all summer long.
Help Our Hedgehogs
Hedgehogs start emerging from hibernation in March. Leaving out fresh water and specialist hedgehog food can help them regain strength after the colder months.
Sow & Plant for the Season Ahead
- Tomatoes – Start seeds in pots and keep them warm and bright for strong early growth.
- Onion Sets – Plant now for a delicious late-summer harvest.
Feed Your Beds & Borders
Give your plants a head start with a general-purpose fertiliser like Chicken Manure or Growmore. Feeding now will support strong growth and healthy blooms.
There’s plenty to do in the garden this month, and we’re here to help! Pop into Moss & Moor for all your spring gardening essentials and expert advice from our team.
March Plants of the Month
Plant of the month
Forsythia
Hi, it’s Kerstin! This month, I’ve chosen Forsythia – a wonderfully hardy and fast-growing shrub that brings gardens to life with its brilliant yellow blooms in early spring. Just when winter feels like it’s dragging on, Forsythia bursts into flower, filling borders and hedges with colour and attracting early pollinators.
Why Forsythia?
- Early spring colour – one of the first shrubs to bloom, brightening up the garden before most plants wake up.
- Wildlife-friendly – attracts bees and other pollinators, supporting biodiversity.
- Low maintenance – pest-resistant and easy to grow, making it a great choice for beginners and seasoned gardeners alike.
- Versatile – works beautifully as an informal hedge, screening plant, or a standout feature in borders.
Kerstin’s Top Growing Tips
- Light & Soil: Prefers a sunny spot with well-drained soil but can tolerate partial shade.
- Pruning: Trim after flowering to keep its shape and encourage fresh new growth for next year’s display.
- Care: Once established, Forsythia needs very little attention – just an occasional tidy-up and a light feed in early spring.
With its golden blooms, fast growth, and easy care, Forsythia is a must-have for adding warmth and vibrancy to any garden. Pop into Moss & Moor to find yours and get planting!
Houseplant of the month
Peace Lily
(Spathiphyllum)
Hi, it’s David! This month, I’ve chosen the Peace Lily – a houseplant classic that never goes out of style. With its glossy green leaves and elegant white flowers, it brings a calming, timeless beauty to any home. It’s even said to symbolise peace, thanks to its flowers resembling white flags of truce.
Not only does the Peace Lily look stunning, but it’s also an air-purifying powerhouse, helping to remove toxins and improve indoor air quality.
David’s Top Care Tips
- Light: Prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate some shade. Just keep it out of direct sunlight to avoid scorching the leaves.
- Water: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. If the leaves start to droop, it’s time for a drink – they’ll perk up again quickly!
- Humidity: Loves a humid environment, so mist regularly, especially in warm, dry rooms. Bathrooms and kitchens are ideal spots.
- Temperature: Thrives between 15–24°C but struggles below 10°C, so keep it cosy.
- Height: Grows to around 45cm over 5–10 years – a slow and steady beauty!
The Peace Lily is a fantastic choice for beginners and seasoned plant lovers alike. Why not pop into Moss & Moor and find the perfect one for your home?
looking after houseplants
Alex’s Gardening Tips for February
As winter slowly gives way to spring, there’s plenty to keep green-fingered gardeners busy. Here are some essential tasks to prepare your garden for the new season:
- Bulbs-in-the-Green: Missed planting spring-flowering bulbs in autumn? No problem! You can plant bulbs-in-the-green like tulips, daffodils, and snowdrops now for a stunning spring display.
- Feed Your Roses: Give your roses and flowering shrubs a boost by sprinkling a slow-release fertiliser, such as bonemeal, around their base. This will help them thrive as the growing season begins.
- Chit Your Potatoes: Start chitting your first early potatoes. Place them in a bright, frost-free spot to encourage strong, healthy shoots for planting.
- Protect Tender Plants: Make the most of cloches and cold frames to shield your tender plants from frosty nights and fluctuating temperatures.
- Dahlia Preparation: Plant dahlia tubers in pots and keep them in a light, warm place to encourage shoots to develop before planting out.
- Plant Garlic Cloves: Pop individual garlic cloves into the soil with the pointed end facing upwards. If the ground is too wet, start them off in modules indoors and transfer them outside in spring.
- Brighten with Hardy Bedding Plants: Fill hanging baskets and containers with hardy bedding plants like primrose and dianthus to add cheerful colour and interest that lasts through to spring.
Pop into Moss & Moor to find all the essentials you need to bring these tips to life. From bulbs to bonemeal, we’ve got you covered!
February Plants of the Month
Plant of the month
Camellia
Kerstin’s Tips for Growing Camellia
Hello, it’s Kerstin here! This month, I’ve chosen one of my all-time favourites – the beautiful camellia. These elegant blooms are a joy in the garden during the cooler months, and with the right care, they’ll thrive in our UK climate.
To grow camellias successfully, opt for hardy varieties such as Camellia japonica or Camellia x williamsii. Choose a sheltered spot with partial shade and well-drained acidic soil – they don’t like drying winds or harsh sunlight.
Plant your camellia in autumn or early spring, ensuring the root ball sits level with the soil surface. Water regularly, ideally with rainwater, as tap water can be too alkaline for these acid-loving plants. Add a generous layer of mulch to help lock in moisture and keep pesky weeds at bay.
Once your camellia has finished flowering, feed it with an ericaceous fertiliser to keep it looking lush and healthy. Prune lightly to tidy up any dead or crossing branches.
Young plants and developing buds can be vulnerable to frost, so protect them with a fleece or move containers to a sheltered spot when temperatures dip.
Finally, good air circulation and proper watering are key to avoiding common issues like bud drop or pests such as aphids and scale insects. A little care goes a long way to ensuring your camellia is the star of your garden for years to come.
Why not pop in-store and discover our selection of hardy camellias? They’ll bring a touch of elegance and colour to your outdoor spaces!
Houseplant of the month
Kentia Palm
(Howea forsteriana)
Hi, it’s David! This February, I’ve picked the elegant Kentia Palm as our houseplant of the month. Native to Lord Howe Island off Australia, this graceful beauty has been a favourite since Victorian times – it even graced the Titanic! Its timeless charm makes it a perfect addition to any home.
Not only does the Kentia Palm bring a touch of the tropics indoors, but it’s also air-purifying and pet-friendly – ideal for creating a healthier, happier home.
Here’s how to keep your Kentia Palm thriving:
Height: Indoors, it can grow up to 2–3 metres – though it’s a very slow grower, so be patient with it.
Light: Place it in bright but indirect light. While it can tolerate a little shade, avoid full sun as it can scorch the leaves.
Water: Wait until the top couple of inches of soil have dried out before watering. Keep the soil just moist and ensure it drains fully – no sitting in water!
Humidity: These palms love humidity, so mist the leaves regularly or pop them on a tray of damp pebbles.
Temperature: Keep your Kentia Palm in a warm spot between 18–24°C and never below 12°C.
The Kentia Palm is a wonderful way to bring effortless style and a calming atmosphere to your home. Why not visit Moss & Moor to pick one up and add a touch of greenery to your space?
looking after houseplants
Gardening Tips for January
Kickstart your gardening year with these essential tasks and tips to keep your garden thriving through the winter months:
- Plan for the Year Ahead
Get inspired for 2025 by exploring our seed collection in the Potting Shed and planning your planting schedule. - Prune Fruit Trees
Now is the time to prune apple and pear trees while they’re dormant. Remove dead, diseased, or damaged branches, and aim for an open goblet shape to improve airflow and fruit production. - Care for Garden Birds
Keep bird baths filled with water, and melt any ice with warm water. Don’t forget to join the RSPB Big Garden Bird Watch from 24th to 26th January to count the feathered visitors in your garden. - Tidy Winter Containers
Keep winter tubs neat by deadheading and removing debris. Water if needed, especially during dry spells. - Chit First Early Potatoes
Place seed potatoes in a bright, frost-free spot to start chitting, ready for planting from February to April. - Indoor Herb Gardens
Sow herb seeds now for an indoor garden on a sunny windowsill – a simple way to bring fresh flavour to your cooking. - Protect Tender Plants
Shield delicate plants from frost with fleece to help them survive the cold. - Winter Garden Stars
For seasonal interest, plant hellebores, mahonia, hamamelis, and skimmia. As long as the soil isn’t frozen or waterlogged, they’ll thrive in your winter garden.
Discover all you need to prepare your garden this January at Moss & Moor!
January Plants of the Month
Plant of the month
Viburnum tinus
Kerstin’s Tips for Growing Viburnum tinus
If you’re looking for a plant that offers year-round interest and a touch of elegance, Viburnum tinus is one of my favourites. It’s an evergreen shrub that’s hardy and reliable – perfect for UK gardens.
I recommend planting it in well-drained, fertile soil in a sunny or partially shaded spot. Choose a spot sheltered from cold winds to give it the best start. What I love about Viburnum tinus is that it tolerates a variety of soils, even chalky or clay ones, as long as they aren’t waterlogged.
When you first plant it, be sure to water regularly during dry spells – this helps it establish strong roots. Once it’s settled, it’s surprisingly drought-tolerant and easy to care for. A little mulch in the spring works wonders, helping to lock in moisture and keep weeds at bay.
After its delicate flowers fade, a light prune will keep its shape looking tidy. Its winter blooms are not only beautiful but also an important food source for pollinators when they need it most.
If you’re after a low-maintenance shrub that brings structure and seasonal charm, Viburnum tinus is a wonderful choice – and a firm favourite of mine!
Houseplant of the month
Dracaena Marginata
Jenny’s Pick
Why Jenny Loves It:
“The Dracaena marginata, or Madagascar Dragon Tree, is my go-to plant for filling spaces after the Christmas decorations come down. It’s beautifully architectural without overwhelming a room, and its low-maintenance nature makes it perfect for this time of year. I also love how it quietly purifies the air – a fresh start for the new year!”
How to Care for Your Dracaena Marginata:
Light:
Dracaena marginata thrives in bright, indirect light but can handle light shade too. Keep it out of direct sunlight, which can scorch its slender, spiky leaves.
Water:
Water when the top of the soil feels dry to the touch, but avoid overwatering – its roots are prone to rot. It’s more forgiving of underwatering than being left to sit in water.
Humidity:
This plant prefers warm, humid conditions, so misting its leaves occasionally will keep it happy.
Jenny’s Tip:
“With its slow-growing nature, this plant can reach up to three metres indoors over time, so it’s perfect for adding height without the hassle!”
looking after houseplants
Gardening Tips for December
As December arrives, it’s time to prepare your garden for winter’s chill. Keep plants protected and add some seasonal charm with these simple tasks to see your garden through to spring.
- Feed the birds – Hang up a bird feeder or some fat balls to give our feathered friends a helping hand through the colder months. They’ll thank you for the extra nutrition this winter.
- Aerate your lawn – Give your lawn some breathing space by aerating with a fork. This helps improve drainage and reduces the risk of waterlogging over the wet winter months.
- Keep patios safe – Give your patios and paving a good wash to clear away any slippery algae or slime. A simple clean makes all the difference when you’re walking outside.
- Winter wash for trees – A good winter wash on your trees helps protect them against pests and diseases, ensuring they stay healthy through the colder season.
- Shelter your plants – Consider investing in a grow house to keep those more vulnerable plants safe from the chill. It’s the perfect way to give them a warm winter hideaway.
- Care for your Christmas tree – Keep your Christmas tree well-watered and away from direct heat sources. This simple step will help preserve it throughout the festive period.
- Scent in the winter garden – Add a touch of fragrance to your garden this winter with shrubs like sarcococca or viburnum x bodnantense ‘Dawn.’ A winter garden doesn’t have to be without scent.
- Protect pots and plants – Keep your pots and plants safe from frost by wrapping them in fleece or bubble wrap. It’s a simple way to protect them from the harshest winter weather.
- Colour in the winter garden – Inject some seasonal colour with Cornus for its stunning red and yellow stems. A bright splash in the winter landscape can lift the spirits.
- Fresh gravel for alpine plants – Top up your alpine plants with fresh gravel to help prevent rotting. It’s a small task that can make a big difference for your plants’ health.
Happy gardening this December – and remember, even in winter, there’s always something to tend to!
December Plants of the Month
Plant of the month
Hellebore
Known as “Christmas roses” or “Lenten roses,” hellebores are hardy perennials that bring a touch of magic to the garden in late winter or early spring. At a time when most plants are still hibernating, their delicate blooms take centre stage, offering a welcome splash of colour.
How to Grow Hellebores
These resilient beauties thrive in partially shaded spots with well-drained, humus-rich soil. While hellebores are low-maintenance once established, they flourish in cool, moist conditions and are well-suited to the UK’s often chilly winters.
Top tips for growing hellebores:
- Choose a sheltered location to protect them from harsh winds.
- Ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogging.
- Add a layer of mulch in winter to safeguard the roots.
Hellebores are not only cold-tolerant but also deer and rabbit-resistant, making them a wonderful choice for wildlife-friendly gardens. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, these elegant flowers will brighten your outdoor space with ease.
Bring a touch of winter charm to your garden with hellebores — the perfect blend of beauty and resilience.
Houseplant of the month
Poinsettia
Jenny’s Pick
Nothing says Christmas quite like the vibrant poinsettia, also known as the “Christmas Star.” Its bold, colourful bracts (often mistaken for flowers) are a festive favourite, adding a cheerful touch to any home during the holiday season.
How to Care for Your Poinsettia
Light:
Poinsettias thrive in bright, indirect light. Avoid placing them in shady spots, as this will affect their vibrancy and growth.
Temperature:
Native to Mexico, poinsettias love warmth and humidity. Keep them in a draught-free location, ideally between 13–22°C, and protect them from chilly temperatures during transport. Sudden cold can cause stress, leading to leaf drop.
Watering:
Use filtered or rainwater at room temperature for best results. Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings, but avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot. Yellowing leaves are often a sign of incorrect watering.
Humidity:
To keep your poinsettia looking its best, mist it regularly. This replicates its natural humid environment and helps the plant maintain its health.
Important Information
- Not pet-friendly: Keep poinsettias out of reach of curious pets.
- Handle with care: The sap may irritate skin and eyes.
With a little TLC, your poinsettia will flourish throughout the festive season, bringing a touch of Christmas magic to your home.
looking after houseplants