by Holly Chapman | 25 Sep 26 | Domestic Landscaping, Garden Design, News |
AsterSketch, a new planting design platform, has been unveiled to landscape and garden professionals as a tool to connect design, research and presentation.
At its heart, the Living Plant Model™ is a plant database and design engine build around an initial library of more than 10,000 plants.
AsterSketch has been designed to work with multiple plant data sources, including designers’ own datasets. An integrated AI chat agent can also retrieve information on plants in real time and present its reference sources, allowing the designer to assess the information and decide what to use.
Using AsterSketch’s built-in CAD editor, designers can draw layout plans from scratch or import 3D models and existing garden or landscape design layouts. They can then search for and select appropriate plants, build planting compositions, save them as reusable plant palettes and develop visually rich planting plans within the same connected workflow.
Charles Leclercq, co-founder and design engineer, comments on the launch:
“Planting design combines creativity with an extraordinary amount of knowledge and information. Yet many of the tools available to designers were never built specifically around plants. We created AsterSketch to change that — connecting design, plant intelligence and professional outputs in one environment.”
Iona Montgomery, co-founder and landscape designer, also comments:
“As a landscape designer, I see AsterSketch as an opportunity to give designers back something increasingly valuable: time to think, design and respond to the challenges facing our landscapes. By streamlining the process, we can spend less time on fragmented tasks and more time creating resilient, biodiverse landscapes that are designed for the future.”
AsterSketch has been developed in collaboration with garden and landscape professionals, and will continue to do so as it looks to continue to expand the Living Plant Model™ and its planting design capabilities.
by Holly Chapman | 05 Jun 26 | From the Mag, Long Reads, Nature & Biodiversity |
Experts profess the vitality of featuring native and non-native planting in UK gardens in Pro Landscaper’s June issue.
Green space in the UK will often feature planting from across the entire world, not just those naturally occurring in Britain. In woodland, most commonly seen and often dismissed, the carpet of violet-blue on copse floors during April and May will host a mixture of the native bluebell and non-native Spanish bluebells. The UK is home to around half of the world’s bluebell population, and only one species is native.
While they may look similar upon first glance, a closer inspection reveals easy-to-spot differences between the two species.
The Hyacinthoides non-scripta, otherwise named common bluebells, English bluebells, British blueness, wood bells, fairy flowers and wild hyacinth, grows naturally in the UK. These feature narrow leaves and deep violet-blue, narrow, tubular-bell flowers with tips that curl back and bloom on one side of an often-drooping stem.
The Spanish bluebell, Hyacinthoides hispanica, on the other hand, has broader leaves with pale blue conical-bell flowers that grow around the entire stem positioned upright. A more vigorous plant, it threatens the British bluebell’s population as it outcompetes it for resources such as light and space. Also, over time, the non-native species can hybridise with the British bell, eventually changing the genetic makeup of the native species, therefore diluting its characteristics and weakening it before potentially evolving into something else entirely.
In fact, a study from Plantlife found that one in six broadleaved woodlands hosted hybrids or the Spanish bluebell. Hybrids spread underground and are known to push other species out while native bluebells can take up to seven years to germinate from seed. Voted the nation’s favourite wildflower, organisations such as Plantlife and The Wildlife Trusts encourage the public to choose the native variety to help prevent the spread of non-native, while providing food and shelter for native insects.
However, within gardens across the UK the combination of native and non-native species can also be incredibly productive for gardens across the UK. A diverse range leads to extended seasonal flowering and mixture of blossoms improves wildlife value, especially as the country’s climate changes.
Native vs non-native
“Native plants are vital to support our declining wildlife,” begins planting specialist and garden designer Susanna Grant, “not just for pollinators but also for habitat, breeding, nesting and food sources for larval stages of insects, many which have evolved to eat the foliage of one specific plant.”
Even if a garden is full of pollinator friendly plants, “it doesn’t matter if there’s nowhere for those pollinators to breed,” Grant explains. Wildflowers, for example, are in decline, with the UK having lost 97% of its wildflower meadows since the 1930s.
“Using non-natives for so long is a massive cause of habitat loss and biodiversity reduction. We’ve squeezed wildlife out of every corner, but we can change this situation by including native plants every time we add something to the garden,” she reasons.
The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) has been researching how to garden for both pollinators and invertebrates. From planting British natives to focussing on wildflower meadows or extending the season with exotic non-native planting, the RHS encourages a mixture of flowering plants from different parts of the world. The more plants a garden can offer throughout the year, the greater number of bees, hoverflies and other pollinating insects it will attract and support.
Garden designer Dave Green of Dave Green Garden argues that “it’s not so much a distinction between native and non-native,” but instead “it’s more about plants and blooms being available for nature.”
However, native planting specifically is important for invertebrates, finds the RHS. Often dismissed as pests, invertebrates support populations of natural predators, which in turn helps to maintain a balance of invertebrates in general.
Grant sees native planting work well with non-native planting, “especially when we are putting together planting plans that we hope will withstand climate change,” she says. Green agrees, adding:
“Some of the native plants are not suitable for changing climates, and we need to think about resilient planting by including a more diverse range of plants.”
A changing climate
Not only does a diverse planting plan work for a changing climate, but “the mix of plants and blossoms for an extended season improves wildlife value,” says Green. As weather patterns become increasingly intense and unpredictable, there is a risk that native plants may not evolve quickly enough with the change of environment, notes garden designer Max Parker-Smith of Maximilliam design.
Designer of the Journey Beyond the Tracks: From Adelaide to Perth garden at RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2026, Parker-Smith featured an abundance of non-native planting in honour of the Australian landscape. “I think we should also embrace non-natives,” while also recognising the plants that have lived in the UK for 1000s of years.
His garden, built by Hardwood Landscapes, will be relocated to Kensington Gardens and Longleat. 98% of the planting originates from South and Western Australia and grown in southern Spain. “It’s going to be interesting to see how they fare in the UK,” he says. “I think we might surprise ourselves with some of these plants.”
For example, the Xanthorrea (Grass trees), which played a key role for the first nation inhabitants of Australia, “has a good chance of growing,” Parker-Smith explains. In need of sandy soils and low nutrients, the trees find a new home within the Royal Parks under the watchful eye of head of horticulture and landscape strategy, Matthew Pottage.
Trends amongst clients
Admittedly, Grant says she initiates the conversation on native planting with her clients and the importance of incorporating declining planting, such as wildflowers, within schemes. In comparison to five or so years ago, she’s seen a change: “I’ve had more clients interested in including more native plants into their gardens and if they want a lawn, they are happy to have clover turf or wildflower turf which they weren’t so much five years ago.”
Perhaps down to the increase of ‘wilder’ gardens at Chelsea, “there is a trickle-down effect which definitely does help,” Grant notices. “But equally those gardens show a snapshot of a perfect flowering moment in time which can be very unhelpful in managing client’s expectations.” In response, there is a level of education and communication needed to be relayed to clients.
“I don’t think a lot of people understand how important native plants are but they are usually very receptive to the idea when you can explain that a lesser knapweed will support up to 70 species or that kidney vetch is the sole larval food for a small blue butterfly as they might want to see that in their garden.”
Green has also seen a trend with more clients looking to connect with nature, and “a lot of people think that connection means having native plants,” adding, “I think there is a trend for ecologically rich planting, for example having more natives.” But, he argues, there is a risk that people believe in order to be more ecologically sound, they must have only native planting. “But that’s not the case. It’s about diversity, and the more we can tell people about that, the better,” he finishes.
Not to be ignored, the conversation on native and non-native planting should be pursued across planting and garden design. As the climate warms and threats to species continues, not only is it important to reintroduce declining native species, but by introducing non-native planting in combination, a garden is more likely to attract a range of pollinators and invertebrates all year round.
Read Pro Landscaper’s June issue.
by Holly Chapman | 25 Mar 26 | Commercial Landscaping, From the Mag, Garden Design, Long Reads
Planting specialist and garden designer Susanna Grant explains why planting design and gardeners should be a priority in public space planning in Pro Landscaper’s March issue within the Public Spaces Special.
Why is planting design so important for public spaces?
It’s important for people because not only does it soften urban spaces, but there’s been so much scientific proof saying it really improves wellbeing. As well as this, we share a city with so much wildlife, and we’re constantly building on top of their natural habitat. Planting is important for biodiversity, cleaning the air and reducing pollution.
Have you been working on any projects within the public realm?
Last year, we finished a project in Camden. The planting in the street is very vulnerable because they have so much anti-social behaviour. Initially, others weren’t keen on planting because if we can’t look after it, it’s going to get ruined. Since, we’ve had gardeners there from the start. I even get sent daily reports and photographs on WhatsApp!
What is Care Not Capital and the ‘modern gardener’?
Care Not Capital is a training organisation I run with John Little where we upskill the trained gardener. We’re not training them in horticulture. We’re training them in all the things that we think are important, for example habitat creation and understanding that it’s all very well putting in plants that are biodiverse or that pollinators need, but you need to create a space where they can rest and nest.
We’re trying to upskill gardeners so they learn, and then we can pay them to go into public spaces. Then, they can work with councils or work with community groups to make their gardens more wildlife friendly and biodiverse.
Applications* have just opened to train 15 gardeners for free. So far, we’ve heard from a lot of applicants.
Why is it important to have a gardener to maintain public spaces?
We want the idea of putting the gardener to a top priority when you’re doing a proposal that involves green space. So, you have factored in that maintenance and incorporate interesting landscaping while knowing it will be looked after. It’s not a huge amount of money you need; it’s just always the afterthought.
It’s about trying to put the emphasis on what a space will look like if it has a gardener.
What would you like to see more of in public spaces?
I would like to see more habitats created, but in an interesting way. In London, for example, they are doing loads of really beautiful things with habitats. Using just habitat piles structures, but they make them look really beautiful.
I’d also like to see more understanding from people of what these green spaces are and what they’re doing and why they’re so important. I think it’s just an understanding of what different creatures, birds and insects need and try to incorporate that in a creative way.
*Applications are now closed.
Read Pro Landscaper’s March issue here.
by Holly Chapman | 07 Nov 25 | Garden Design, Landscape Architecture, News
Camden High Street has opened a new civic square featuring new planting, inclusive seating, artwork and sustainable materials.
The installation of SubSTRATUM won the Square Camden High Street Design Competition, a partnership between the London Festival of Architecture (LFA) and the London Borough of Camden.
Entered as a collaboration between public realm improvers Edgy Collective and planting design specialist LINDA, the streetscape will be open to the public until autumn 2026.
Councillor Adam Harrison, cabinet member for planning and a sustainable Camden comments on the winning design:
“Camden SubSTRATUM captures the spirit of Camden — bold, inclusive, and community-driven and to better serve the people who live, work, and visit here.”
Featuring biodiverse planting, illuminated buoy sculptures and recycled materials, the design will contribute to the trial pedestrianisation of the area as a temporary public realm improvement, with the potential to contribute towards a future permanent scheme.
by Holly Chapman | 11 Sep 25 | Garden Design, Long Reads
Friends turned business partners, Joy Taylor and Claudia Willard began their planting design career with freelance work shortly after completing their garden design course. “We then realised we would like to work together. ” And so, they did.
From friendly introductions at the Yorkshire School of Garden Design to founding a planting design company together, Taylor and Willard welcome Studio Mōr to private clients, landscapers and garden designers.
Founded just a couple of months ago, in June, Studio Mōr is a planting design company eager to work with the industry to deliver bespoke and tailored planting designs. The studio has already enjoyed a busy summer working on a variety of planting projects ranging from country locations to townhouses.
The planting vision
Based in the Yorkshire Dales, Taylor and Willard came up with the name entirely based on their location. Mōr is the old English term for moor, referring to the Yorkshire Moors in which they reside. “We’re surrounded by them, we’ve spent so much of our lives in this sort of landscape. It’s really informed who we are as planting designers and we take a lot of inspiration from the moors,” explains Willard. Based up in the rolling hills of the Dales, the studio also welcomes projects from further afield.
Often described as ‘intuitive’, the pair realise that they have the ability to read a client, their needs and the surrounding landscape when it comes to planting design:
“We’re able to pick up on subtle cues of a client and identify their vision.”
The Studio Mōr founders recognise the time they are willing to put into planting design. Joy and Willard dedicate themselves to constant learning and updating of their plant knowledge by visiting contemporary gardens around the country and overseas. The pair want to translate learnt planting knowledge to their industry clients to enhance outdoor spaces. “We’re here to make our clients’ lives easier,” they agree.
The Mōr process
As the climate warms, research trips are important for Taylor and Willard. Not only does this ignite inspiration for future projects, but travelling to the warmer areas allow the pair to explore climate resilient plants they can bring back to the UK as England experiences warmer temperatures. Willard adds:
“Our climate in the north is heating up, so it’s something we need to take into consideration. We’re bringing those combinations back and then seeing how we can adapt them for our landscape, our client and our weather conditions.”
Studio Mōr’s planting design service is offered in two stages. Firstly, it offers a concept led guide that includes mood boards, planting themes and curated planting list which is known as The Plant Book. Next, the second step in the process leads to The Planting Design Book is a technical planting plan that is constructed to be used by landscapers before installing the plants. Taylor and Willard reiterate that their services are bespoke and curated to guide every client from concept to installation. “We’re not just one size fits all, or we really, we really care, and we really think about what we’re doing,” explains Taylor.
The founders look forward to meeting new clients as they embark on this new journey. Find out more about Studio Mōr.
by Holly Chapman | 09 Sep 25 | Commercial Landscaping, Domestic Landscaping, Garden Design, News
David Austin Roses has created a pocket-sized colour swatch book for garden designers, landscapers and trade professionals.
The Pocket Handbook features over one hundred varieties of David Austin Roses, arranged around a rose-inspired colour wheel.
Each card displays a rose image with fragrance and growth habit details.
Highlighting the natural pairing of upright, formal forms for structured areas and spreading, the guide has been made to help designers to build schemes.
Liam Beddall, head rosarian at David Austin says it is a “simple idea that turns the full palette of our roses into a tool you can carry anywhere”.
Recyclable and durable, the handbook launches this week at the Professional Trade Services Open Week.
by Holly Chapman | 05 Sep 25 | Nature & Biodiversity, News
Ingleborough National Nature Reserve (NNR) in Yorkshire has been recognised as part of the King’s Series of National Nature Reserves.
Established to celebrate His Majesty the King’s coronation in 2023, the King’s Series brings together work by Natural England and Yorkshire Wildlife Trust to tackle climate change, restore damaged habitats and create a resilient landscape.
The recognition of 179 hectares of Yorkshire’s landscape has been recognised through the extension of Ingleborough NNR, bringing the total safeguarded area to 1186 hectares.
Tony Juniper, chair of Natural England says the extension helps “safeguard species found nowhere else in the UK”.
Rachael Bice, chief executive at Yorkshire Wildlife Trust also comments:
“Working together to create space for nature is vital and further protection for Ingleborough’s stunning landscape follows years of dedicated commitment to bring back more diverse and abundant wildlife to a nature-rich upland limestone landscape.”
The extension will allow for improved public access to nature. A vital lifeline for threatened species, the nature reserve is home to ferns, mosses, and rare flowers.
by Edward Brown | 25 Jul 25 | Nature & Biodiversity, News
Over 84k native trees have been planted across the Peak District Dales by the £5m LIFE in the Ravines project.
Restoring up to 25% of the region’s most severely damaged woodlands due to ash dieback, the project, led by Natural England, reports that it has created new habitats that will protect ravine woodland ecosystems.
The LIFE in the Ravines initiative claim that the unstable soil conditions and steep landscape which define the Peak District Dales are ideal for ravine woodlands. These rare forest habitats include broad-leaved species such as ash, lime and wych elm.
Martin Evans, woodland restoration manager for Natural England, comments on the planting success of the LIFE in the Ravines project in combating ash dieback.
“The success of the LIFE in the Ravines project shows what can be achieved when we work with nature rather than against it. By planting 84k trees, we’re not just replacing what was lost to ash dieback, we’re creating more diverse and resilient woodlands that will thrive for generations to come.”
First recorded in the UK in 2006, but known on the continent for about thirty years, it is estimated that millions of British ash trees have died from the ash dieback fungal infection. The restoration work on the ravine woodlands aims to create more diverse habitats that are resilient to dieback.
by Joe Wilkinson | 27 Apr 23 | Nature & Biodiversity, News, Supplier News
Form Plants, established in 2020, has had a busy few years. But May 2023 marks the next substantial step on this young business’s growth – by taking on a new site, delivering a greater range of plants to its customers, and continuing to add ‘form’ to every garden.
Form’s primary site will be on the Flourish Plants site in Chobham, Surrey, junction 11 of the M25. The two businesses – Flourish Plants and Form Plants – have a great synergy and have come together to trade as Form Plants. For Form Plants’ regular Berkshire customers, there will continue to be a small presence at the site at Dorney Court, Windsor, where designers, landscapers and retail customers can meet and discuss their planting needs.
By bringing the two businesses together, there are clear benefits which puts for Form Plants as one of the leading plant suppliers in the UK:
- With more than 8 acres of prime Surrey land, a wider range of plants can be grown, expanding the existing topiary and trees, hedging and shrubs.
- Bespoke and production growing for garden and landscape designers, including RHS Flower Shows
- Easy access, just by junction 11 of the M25
- A central hub and creative space for customers to meet and talk all things plants and gardens.
- Form Plants’ and Flourish Plants’ network, purchasing power and customers to all benefit.
Jamie Butterworth, Managing Director of Form Plants, says: “I’m so proud that Form Plants is growing and expanding. It’s been an amazing few years, from supplying plants to 11 gardens at RHS Chelsea Flower Show in 2022 to battling hurricanes and drought. But by moving our main operation to the Surrey site, we will be even better placed to deliver for our customers. More space means more plants, which means even better value and quality. We hope this shows to all our current and future customers that we are here to serve their planting needs. We are growing, which is great news!”
- Expanding to a new M25 site with extra space
- Growing a wider range of plants
- Lead by of the youngest nursery owners in the UK
- Form Plants 100% privately owned
Phil Goodman, Founder of Flourish said “This makes so much sense for both businesses. We are the same age and hugely complement each other’s strengths. The joined-up business creates real scale, both in terms of nursery size, capability and expertise. The awareness of the Form brand is substantially higher than Flourish, so it makes every sense that Flourish will migrate into the Form brand by Summer 2023 and operate as a single entity going forward”.
But like all thriving businesses, Form Plants wants to hear from people across the industry. “Our biggest energy rush is when we work with garden designers, landscape architects, contractors and members of the public. So we will be asking all our customers for the type of nursery, customer care levels and pricing structures that work for them. If anyone has views about what we should do next – and how we do – we want to hear from you!”
