Gardening at moss and moor
Our horticultural team
Alex
Alex is our horticultural manager at Moss & Moor and has worked in horticulture retail for the past 26 years since leaving college. He studied at Askham Bryan college near York where he obtained a HND in Horticulture.
Kerstin
Kerstin is originally from Malta and moved to England almost 5 years ago where she has since completed her theory and practical level 2 diploma in horticulture with the RHS and is currently working towards her level 3.
Jenny
Jenny has worked in high street retail for 20 years before starting her career with Moss & Moor. Her qualifications including RHS Level 2 diploma in principles and practices of horticulture and RHS Level 3 certificate in practical horticulture has allowed Jenny to thrive within the plant area, taking pride in the houseplants section.
David
David joins Moss & Moor with over 30 years of experience working in garden centres and plant nurseries. A graduate of Shipley College with a City and Guilds in horticulture, David’s passion for plants and dedication to customer service make him a valuable addition to our team. Whether you’re seeking expert advice or looking for inspiration, David is here to help guide you in making the most of your garden.
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
NEW arrivals: david austin roses
We’re thrilled to introduce David Austin Roses to Moss & Moor! 🌹 Probably the most recognised rose breeder in the world, David Austin has been growing exquisite roses for over 60 years at their family farm in Shropshire. Renowned for their exceptional fragrance, beauty, and quality, these premium roses are a must-have for any garden.
Come and explore the stunning varieties we’ve carefully selected and get expert advice from our friendly team on choosing the perfect rose for your garden.
🌿 Visit us in-store to shop our latest offers and new arrivals!
Offers for April
Spring is well and truly here, and we’ve got some fantastic offers to help you make the most of your garden this season. Whether you’re planting up borders, refreshing your patio, or stocking up on gardening essentials, there’s something for everyone in-store!
🌸 Spring Plant Offers
🌿 Lavender Plants – £7 each or 3 for £16
🌿 Garden Herbs – £5 each or 3 for £12
🌸 6-Pack Pansy & Viola – £3.99 each or 3 for £10
🌿 Spring Flowering Alpines – £5 each or 3 for £12
🌸 Senetti Plants – £7.99 each or 2 for £14
🌳 Exclusive Moor Rewards Offers
✨ Standard Olives – Was £30, Now £20
✨ Standard Viburnum – Was £80, Now £60
✨ Evergreen 4-in-1 – Was £35, Now £25
✨ Smart Premium Rigger Gloves – Was £7.99, Now £4.99
✨ Algon Patio & Path Cleaner – Was £9.99, Now £7.99
✨ Boost Slow Release Granules (750g) – £6.99 each or 2 for £10
✨ Levington Peat-Free Multi-Purpose Compost – £5.99 each or 2 for £10
✨ Small Richmond Bench – Was £175, Now £135
✨ 3L Evergreen Azalea – Was £16.99, Now £12.99
✨ Sipcam Disease Stopper – £7.49 each or 2 for £12
✨ Sipcam Slug Stoppa – £7.49 each or 2 for £12
✨ Fallen Fruits Combo Tub – Was £14.99, Now £7.99
👢 Garden Essentials
💧 Ultra-Light Ankle Boots – RRP £34.99, Our Price £29.99
Help us go PEAT FREE !
As we continue to work with the ENVIRONMENTAL campaign group Climate Action Ilkley to educate our customers on the choices available, shop our range of peat-free and organic composts. Play your part and switch to peat free for healthy plants while protecting the planet too!
We worked really hard in 2023 to move away from peat based composts and as we currently stand at the start of 2024 we are 97% there.
The Best of British Plants
With our passion for plants, we champion the very best of British Growers, selecting and nurturing an exciting range of trees, outdoor plants and shrubs that will help you create a home and garden you love.
Lifetime Plant Guarantee
We are so confident in the quality of our hardy plants that we offer a Lifetime Guarantee on all our hardy outdoor garden plants. We offer a free replacement or credit note providing the plant hasn’t died as a result of neglect of care, for example watering. All we ask is you return your plant with a receipt or garden centre label as proof of purchase. Hardy plants do not include seasonal bedding plants or Houseplants.
ASK ALEX!
Got a houseplant dilemma, a garden question, or in need of expert advice? Just ask Alex! Reach out to our horticultural team at hello@mossandmoor.co.uk, and we’ll be delighted to help you flourish!