Spring is arriving – and there’s never been a better time to get out in the garden!
March is one of the most rewarding months in the gardening calendar. After the long winter, the garden is finally waking up, and there’s a real sense of possibility in the air. Our Alex has put together his essential March jobs to help you make the most of the season – and don’t forget, we’ve got everything you need in our Potting Shed, from sweeping brushes and garden bags to spades and secateurs, to get you started.
Choose a mild, dry day for your outdoor tasks – the soil is much easier to work with, and you’ll enjoy it far more!
Alex’s march Gardening Jobs
Give the Garden a Good Tidy
After months of wind, rain and frost, a thorough tidy-up is the perfect place to start. Clear away dead stems, fallen leaves and winter debris from beds and borders to let fresh new growth breathe. It’s enormously satisfying – and your garden will thank you for it.
Protect New Growth from Slugs and Snails
As temperatures rise, slugs and snails will be on the move and new plant growth is their favourite feast. Get ahead of them now using wool pellets or beer traps as a natural barrier. A little prevention at this stage saves a lot of heartache later in the season.
Re-start Lawn Maintenance
March is the moment to give your lawn some love. Start with a good feed to wake it up after winter and give it the boost it needs for healthy growth through spring and summer. Little and often is the key with lawn care, and getting going early really pays off.
Install a Water Butt
With the growing season just around the corner, now is a great time to install a water butt and start collecting that valuable Yorkshire rainfall. Plants thrive on rainwater, it’s better for the environment, and your water bill will thank you too!
Sow Hardy Annuals Outside
The good news is that hardy annual seeds can now be sown directly outside. Try calendula, cornflower, cerinthe or poppy for a beautiful, colourful display later in the year. They’re easy, rewarding and wonderfully cheerful.
Create a Wildflower Meadow
If you’ve been thinking about creating a wildflower meadow, March is a brilliant time to sow a mix that will benefit pollinators through the warmer months. Even a small patch will make a big difference to bees, butterflies and other wildlife – and it looks stunning too.
A Helping Hand for Hedgehogs
Hedgehogs will be emerging from hibernation this month, hungry and in need of energy. Leave out a shallow dish of water and some specialist hedgehog food to help them build up their strength. They’re wonderful garden allies and well worth looking after.
Sow Tomato Seeds
Get your tomato seeds started now! Sow them in pots and place them somewhere warm and bright – a sunny windowsill is perfect. Give them a head start indoors and they’ll be strong, healthy plants ready for planting out when the frosts have passed.
Plant Onion Sets and Seed Potatoes
From mid-March, onion sets and seed potatoes can go into the ground. There’s something wonderfully optimistic about planting potatoes – and by summer you’ll be harvesting your own homegrown crop. We have seed potatoes and onion sets available in store while stocks last.
Feed Your Beds and Borders
Give your beds and borders a boost with a general-purpose fertiliser such as fish, blood and bone or Growmore. It’s a simple job that makes a real difference to plant growth as the season gets underway. Apply on a dry day and water in if rain isn’t forecast.
Ready to get started? Visit us in Ilkley and pop into the Potting Shed for all the tools, seeds and supplies you need to make March a brilliant month in the garden. Our team are always on hand with advice and inspiration.
March Plants of the Month
garden Plant of the month
Prunus ‘Kojo-no-mai’
Chosen by Kerstin
Every year, when March arrives and the garden is just beginning to stir, I find myself drawn to one plant above all others. Prunus ‘Kojo-no-mai’ is, without doubt, one of my absolute favourites – and this month I’m delighted to share it with you.
The name means ‘dance of the butterflies’ in Japanese, and once you see it in full blossom, you’ll understand why. Those delicate flowers – soft white flushed with the palest blush pink – appear on the most wonderfully sculptural zig-zag branches, almost like something from a beautiful ink drawing. It’s one of those plants that genuinely stops you in your tracks.
What I love most about ‘Kojo-no-mai’ is that it earns its place in the garden all year round. In early spring it’s all about that gorgeous blossom, which arrives just when we need it most – that lovely reminder that warmer days really are on their way. Through summer, fresh green foliage takes over, and then in autumn the leaves turn the most beautiful shades of orange and red. Three seasons of real interest from one small, elegant tree.
And it truly is small – which is what makes it so special. If you’ve always dreamed of having an ornamental cherry but thought your garden wasn’t big enough, ‘Kojo-no-mai’ is your answer. It’s perfect for courtyards, smaller gardens and even containers, where it will thrive beautifully on a sunny patio or beside a front door.
Growing ‘Kojo-no-mai’ in Yorkshire:
Position – Choose a sunny, sheltered spot. It will reward you handsomely for a little protection from harsh winds.
Soil – Well-drained soil is key. If you’re growing in a container, a good quality peat-free compost works wonderfully.
Watering – Water regularly when newly planted or growing in a pot, particularly through dry spells. Once established in the ground, it’s wonderfully easy-going.
Pruning – Very little needed! Just remove any dead or crossing branches after flowering to keep it looking its best.
Wildlife – The early blossom is a fantastic source of nectar for pollinators just emerging in spring. Planting one is a lovely way to support bees and other beneficial insects at a time when food sources are still scarce.
I have a real soft spot for this little tree – it’s just so full of character and charm. We have a lovely selection in stock right now, and I’d love to help you find the perfect spot for one in your garden. Come and find me in store – I’m always happy to chat plants! 🌸to help with advice on varieties and planting.
Houseplant of the month
Phalaenopsis – Moth Orchid
Chosen by Jenny and Oli
If you’re looking for a houseplant that combines exotic beauty with genuine staying power, look no further than the Phalaenopsis – or Moth Orchid as it’s more commonly known. This is a plant that never fails to draw admiration, and honestly, it’s one of those joyful things we love having in the shop because people are always so delighted by them.
What makes the Moth Orchid so special is its incredible variety – from pure whites and soft blush pinks to deep purples, vibrant yellows and the most gorgeous speckled and patterned varieties. There really is something for everyone. And those flowers! Long-lasting, elegant and wonderfully exotic-looking, they’ll bring a real lift to any room in the house.
Here’s the thing that surprises so many people: don’t throw your orchid away once it’s finished flowering. With a little care, it will bloom again and again, making it one of the best value houseplants you can buy. We think that’s something worth celebrating.
Care Tips for Yorkshire Homes:
Light – Find a bright spot, but keep it out of direct sunlight. Strong sun can scorch those beautiful leaves, so a windowsill with filtered light is ideal.
Water – Once a week in summer is plenty, and ease off a little through winter. The golden rule with orchids is never to let them sit in water – this is the quickest route to root rot. At the same time, don’t let the roots dry out completely. A handy tip: if the roots start to look grey or white, that’s your orchid telling you it’s thirsty and needs a drink. Rainwater is best if you can manage it.
Humidity – In summer, or if your home is particularly warm and dry, give the foliage a gentle mist every now and then. Orchids love a little humidity and it really does make a difference.
Pruning – Once your orchid has finished its display, don’t cut the stem right back. Instead, trim it to just above a node – that little bump on the stem – and with patience, a new flower spike should emerge from that point. It feels like a little miracle every time!
We have a gorgeous selection of Moth Orchids in store right now in a wonderful range of colours – perfect as a treat for yourself or a truly beautiful gift for someone special. Jenny and Oli are always on hand in our houseplant area if you’d like advice on choosing the right variety or finding the perfect spot for it at home. 🌸
looking after houseplants
Visit Moss & Moor This March
There’s never been a better time to visit our award-winning garden centre in Ilkley. Whether you’re stocking up on gardening essentials, choosing beautiful houseplants, or treating yourself to lunch in our restaurant, we’d love to welcome you.
Opening Hours:
- Garden Centre: Mon-Sat 9am-5pm, Sun 10am-4pm
- Restaurant: Mon-Sat 9am-3pm (last orders), Sun 9.30am-3pm (last orders)
Find us at Moss & Moor, Ilkley, West Yorkshire. Free parking available.
Happy gardening!
Spring is stirring in Ilkley, and there’s plenty to be getting on with as your garden gently awakens from winter.
February might still feel chilly here in West Yorkshire, but it’s one of the most exciting months for gardeners. There’s a real sense of anticipation in the air – and some genuinely rewarding jobs to crack on with. Our Alex has put together his essential February gardening tasks, and we’re delighted to share our Plants of the Month, chosen by our team.
Alex’s February Gardening Jobs
Spring Bulbs – It’s Not Too Late!
Missed planting bulbs in autumn? Don’t worry! Pop into our garden centre in Ilkley for pot-grown Tulips, Daffodils and Crocus to brighten your borders. Plant them now and you’ll still enjoy a beautiful spring display. They’re the perfect way to add instant colour while you’re waiting for everything else to catch up.
Prune Hedges Before Nesting Season
Give your hardy evergreen hedges a gentle trim now, before our feathered friends start nesting. Box, yew, holly and laurel can all benefit from a tidy-up this month. Not only will your hedges look smarter, but you’ll be doing your bit for garden wildlife by getting this done early.
Feed Your Favourites
Treat roses, fruit bushes and shrubs to a boost of slow-release fertiliser. A sprinkle of bonemeal or chicken pellets around the base will set them up beautifully for the growing season ahead. It’s one of those simple jobs that makes all the difference come summer.
Chit Potatoes
Get your first early spuds started somewhere bright and frost-free, ready for planting in March. Chitting potatoes is wonderfully satisfying – just pop them in an egg box on a windowsill and watch those shoots emerge. If you need seed potatoes, we’ve got a great selection in store.
Protect Tender Plants
Make use of cloches and cold frames to keep precious plants cosy through late frosts. February in Yorkshire can be unpredictable, and those tender shoots need a little extra care. We stock a lovely range of protection options at Moss & Moor.
Bring in Instant Colour
Why wait for spring? Plant Hellebores, Viburnum and Skimmia now for instant seasonal cheer. These beauties will reward you with flowers and interest right through the coldest weeks. We’ve a lovely selection in our plant department.
Fill Containers with Hardy Bedding
Create early interest with hardy bedding plants that can brave Yorkshire weather. Pansies, Primroses and Dianthus will reward you with colour right through spring and into early summer. Perfect for pots by your front door or dotted around the garden for cheerful splashes of colour.
February Plants of the Month
garden Plant of the month
Camellia
Chosen by David and Kerstin
For outdoor impact this month, we’re spotlighting the stunning Camellia – a true garden treasure. With glossy evergreen leaves and breathtaking blooms in shades of pink, red and white, camellias bring elegance and colour when we need it most, from late winter right through to spring.
Why we love them:
- Spectacular flowers that last for weeks
- Evergreen foliage for year-round structure
- Surprisingly hardy once established in Yorkshire gardens
Growing Camellias in Ilkley & West Yorkshire:
Location – Find a sheltered spot with partial shade and well-drained, acidic soil. Camellias are happiest away from harsh winds and morning sun, which can damage frosted buds.
Planting – Autumn or early spring is ideal. Keep the root ball level with the soil surface – no deeper. If your garden soil is alkaline (common in parts of Yorkshire), grow camellias in containers filled with ericaceous compost.
Watering – Regular watering is key, especially when establishing. Rainwater is best if you can collect it, as camellias prefer slightly acidic conditions.
Feeding – After flowering, treat with ericaceous fertiliser to keep them thriving. We stock everything you need in our gardening department.
Mulching – A generous layer of bark or leafmould helps retain moisture and keeps weeds at bay.
Pruning – A light trim after flowering to remove any dead or crossing branches keeps them tidy and healthy.
Frost Protection – Young plants and flower buds appreciate shelter from severe Yorkshire frosts. Fleece works wonderfully, or move containers to a protected spot on particularly cold nights.
We have a beautiful selection of hardy camellia varieties in stock, perfect for Yorkshire gardens. Come and choose your favourite – our team are always happy to help with advice on varieties and planting.
Houseplant of the month
Kentia Palm
Chosen by Jenny and David
This month, we’re celebrating the elegant Kentia Palm (Howea forsteriana) – a graceful touch of the tropics for your home. This stunning palm has been beloved since Victorian times and even graced the grand rooms of the Titanic. Native to Lord Howe Island, it’s wonderfully easy-going and completely pet-friendly, making it perfect for family homes.
Care Tips for Yorkshire Homes:
Light – Your Kentia enjoys bright but indirect light. It can tolerate a little shade, but keep it away from harsh sun to protect those lovely fronds.
Water – Wait until the top few inches of compost feel dry, then give it a good drink. Let excess water drain away completely.
Humidity – This palm loves a humid atmosphere, which can be tricky in centrally heated homes. Mist the leaves regularly or place on a pebble tray filled with water for that tropical feel.
Temperature – Keep things cosy between 18-24°C, never dropping below 12°C.
Growth – A slow and steady grower, reaching 2-3 metres indoors over time.
Pop into our houseplant area to see our beautiful Kentia Palms and get advice from our knowledgeable team.
looking after houseplants
Visit Moss & Moor This February
There’s never been a better time to visit our award-winning garden centre in Ilkley. Whether you’re stocking up on gardening essentials, choosing beautiful houseplants, or treating yourself to lunch in our restaurant, we’d love to welcome you.
Opening Hours:
- Garden Centre: Mon-Sat 9am-5pm, Sun 10am-4pm
- Restaurant: Mon-Sat 9am-3pm (last orders), Sun 9.30am-3pm (last orders)
Find us at Moss & Moor, Ilkley, West Yorkshire. Free parking available.
Happy gardening!
January Gardening Jobs – Tips from Our Gardening Team
Winter may be in full swing, but there’s still plenty to do in the garden this January. Our team at Moss & Moor have put together their essential January gardening jobs to keep your garden healthy, tidy, and ready for spring. From pruning fruit trees and planning your vegetable patch, to caring for winter containers and attracting wildlife, there’s something for every gardener – whether you’re a beginner or seasoned pro.
Read on for our top tips for winter garden care, expert advice from our knowledgeable plant team, and inspiration to make the most of your garden this month.
Alex’s Gardening Jobs for January
January may be cold, but there’s plenty to do in the garden to keep it healthy and thriving. Here’s Alex’s guide to gardening this month:
Plan Ahead: Decide which seeds you’d like to grow this year and be inspired by our selection in the potting shed.
Pruning: Prune apple and pear trees while they are dormant. Remove any dead, diseased or damaged branches and aim to create an open goblet shape.
Wildlife: Keep bird baths topped up and use warm water to melt any ice. Take part in the RSPB Big Garden Bird Watch between 24th–26th January and see which birds visit your garden.
Containers & Indoor Gardening: Keep winter-planted tubs and containers looking tidy by deadheading and removing debris. Water if needed. Start an indoor herb garden on a bright windowsill.
Vegetables: Begin chitting first early potatoes in a bright, frost-free spot, ready for planting from February onwards.
Protection: Cover tender plants with fleece to protect them from frost.
Winter Interest: Plant hellebores, mahonia, hamamelis and skimmia now, provided the soil isn’t frozen or waterlogged.
By following these simple tasks, your garden will stay healthy all winter and be ready to flourish in spring.
January Plants of the Month
Plant of the month
skimmia
Evergreen colour for shady gardens chosen by David & Kerstin
Skimmia is a reliable and attractive shrub, perfect for UK gardens. It thrives in shade and offers year round interest, making it ideal for areas where many plants struggle. Glossy evergreen leaves provide structure throughout the seasons, while softly scented spring flowers and vibrant red berries add colour when it is needed most. Berries appear on female plants when a male is grown nearby.
Why choose skimmia
- Thrives in shade
- Evergreen foliage all year
- Scented spring flowers
- Long lasting winter berries
- Ideal for borders, woodland gardens and containers
Where to plant
Plant in partial to full shade, in a sheltered position away from cold winds. Perfect for north facing borders and patio pots.
Soil and care
Skimmia prefers humus rich, well drained soil. Improve the soil with leaf mould or ericaceous compost before planting. In alkaline areas, grow in pots using ericaceous compost.
Water regularly, especially in dry weather, but avoid waterlogging. Mulch in spring with bark or leaf mould to retain moisture.
Maintenance
Skimmia is low maintenance. Remove any damaged growth after flowering and feed lightly in spring.
A timeless shrub that brings calm, colour and structure to the garden all year round.
Houseplant of the month
Dracaena marginata
(Also known as the Dragon Tree)
Chosen by Jenny & Oli
A graceful, slim plant that fits perfectly into tight corners. Dracaena marginata is elegant, easy to style and a great choice for brightening up your home.
Why we love it
- Air purifying
- Striking architectural shape
- NOT pet friendly
Light
Place somewhere bright but avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.
Watering
Water when the top couple of inches of soil are dry, and allow water to drain away completely. Rainwater or filtered water is best, as fluoride can damage the foliage. Avoid overwatering, as this can cause leaf tips to turn black.
Humidity
Dracaena enjoys a humid environment. Mist occasionally to keep it healthy and happy.
Temperature
Keep in a warm spot, ideally between 15–25°C. Avoid draughts or placing near heat sources.
Height & Growth
Can grow up to 2.5m, but very slowly. You can prune back if needed to fit your space.
Feeding
Apply a liquid feed once a month between April and October.
looking after houseplants
Let’s keep your garden thriving — there’s always something to discover at Moss & Moor!
Welcome to December in the Garden
December brings a gentle pause to the gardening year. The days are shorter, the air is crisp, and the garden settles into its winter rest. It is a time for small, steady jobs that make a big difference, setting the stage for a healthy and colourful start to spring.
Alex has put together his essential gardening jobs for December to help you care for your outdoor space through the colder months. With a little preparation now, your garden will feel well loved and ready for the year ahead.
Alex’s Gardening Jobs for December
Support garden wildlife
Hang up bird feeders or fat balls to give birds a reliable food source when natural supplies are low. You will be rewarded with plenty of garden visitors through winter.
Care for your lawn
Use a garden fork to aerate the lawn which will improve drainage and help prevent winter waterlogging.
Refresh paths and patios
Wash down paving to remove slippery algae. A clean path not only looks tidy but keeps the garden safe on wet days.
Protect fruit trees
Apply a winter wash to fruit trees to help guard against pests and disease before growth begins again in spring.
Shelter tender plants
A small grow house can make all the difference for more vulnerable plants. It offers a cosy home through frosts and cold winds.
Look after your Christmas tree
If you have a real tree, remember to water it regularly and keep it away from heat sources. This will help preserve its needles and scent through the festive season.
Introduce winter scent
December is a wonderful time to plant shrubs that offer fragrance when everything else is quiet. Try sarcococca or viburnum x bodnantense Dawn for uplifting winter scent.
Wrap up pots and plants
Use fleece or bubble wrap around any pots or plants that may struggle with heavy frosts.
Add winter colour
Cornus brings brilliant stem colour that glows on grey days. It is an easy way to brighten borders through winter.
Care for alpine plants
Top up gravel around alpine plants to help improve drainage and reduce the risk of rot during wet spells.
Looking ahead
Although December is a slower month in the garden, the small moments of care now will make all the difference as the seasons begin to turn. Winter is also a lovely time to plan for spring, browse seed packets, and dream up new planting ideas.
If you need advice or would like help choosing plants for winter interest, our team is always here to guide you in our garden centre at Moss and Moor.
December Plants of the Month
Plant of the month
Hellebores
A winter favourite for every garden
Hellebores, often known as the Christmas rose or the Lenten rose, are one of the most valuable winter flowering plants for UK gardens. They bring soft colour to the coldest months, opening their elegant blooms in late winter and early spring when very little else is in flower. This makes them a reliable choice for adding interest to borders, containers and shaded corners that feel quiet at this time of year.
These hardy perennials thrive in partially shaded spots with well drained, humus rich soil. They prefer cool and moist conditions and once they have settled in they need very little care. Planting hellebores in a sheltered location helps them cope with winter weather and a layer of mulch in late autumn protects the roots and enriches the soil for the following season.
Hellebores are also a valuable source of early nectar for pollinators. Their long lasting flowers attract bees during the harsher months, supporting wildlife when food is scarce. They are naturally resistant to deer and rabbits which makes them an easy choice for gardens that often see damage from hungry visitors.
One of the reasons hellebores have become such a favourite at Moss and Moor is their ability to return year after year with very little fuss. They form attractive clumps that mature beautifully and offer structure throughout the seasons. With so many varieties available, from soft pinks to deep purples and creamy whites, there is always a hellebore to suit every style of garden.
If you would like advice on choosing the right hellebore for your garden or patio, our team is always happy to help in store.
Houseplant of the month
Poinsettia
(Euphorbia pulcherrima)
Chosen by Oli
The ultimate Christmas houseplant
Poinsettias (Euphorbia pulcherrima), also known as Christmas star flowers, are the perfect way to bring festive colour into your home. Their striking bracts, often mistaken for flowers, create instant seasonal cheer and make them a classic choice for decorating tables, shelves or windowsills.
These popular houseplants thrive in bright, indirect light and prefer a stable, warm environment. Keep the soil lightly moist, but avoid letting it sit in water, as poinsettias do not like soggy roots. While they are low maintenance, they are sensitive to cold drafts, so choosing a protected spot is important to keep them looking their best throughout the festive season.
Poinsettias are not pet friendly and their sap can cause mild skin or eye irritation, so it’s best to handle with care and keep them out of reach of children and curious pets.
With proper care, poinsettias can last for weeks, brightening your home well beyond the holiday period. Available in a range of classic reds, soft pinks, creams and even speckled varieties, there is a poinsettia to suit every home and style.
Our team at Moss & Moor are always on hand to advise on care and help you choose your perfect plant to bring festive cheer into your home this Christmas.
looking after houseplants
Let’s keep your garden thriving — there’s always something to discover at Moss & Moor!
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!