As Pro Landscaper celebrates its 15th anniversary, it takes a look back and asks the industry for its biggest takeaways from the last 15 years.
Malcolm Catlin, chief executive, Plant Healthy
“If we could turn the clock back fifteen years, numerous new plant pests and diseases might not have entered this country. We now have wider awareness of the problem, but we still need more people to implement robust measures. Border checks on EU imports may come and go, but pest threats continue to grow. Let’s ensure that when we reflect in fifteen years’ time, we’re not rueing missed opportunities to protect our plants, landscapes and businesses.”
Kate Cooney, corporate partnerships manager, Perennial
“Wow… 15 years of Pro Landscaper, and I’ve been part of almost eight of them! Thinking back to my first FutureScape (November 2018) it was very much “Perennial… who are you?” Now people actively come looking for us. We’re not there yet, but thanks to the support organisations such as 44 Group provide, we’re getting closer to our goal: an industry where everyone knows Perennial is there when they need us.”
Mark Gregory, managing director, Landform Consultants
“From a landscaping and technical point of view, the things that we learnt 15-20 years ago are now outdated. The thought of burying inert materials in gardens 20 years ago would’ve made you the ultimate cowboy. Now, you’re the guy who’s saving the planet. The way we are doing things are changing.
For instance, a British standard soakaway was a cubic metre, and that was it. 15 years forward, we know that’s insufficient. Now, we’re digging bigger holes, creating bigger attenuation areas and using crushed concrete to minimise our waste.
The biggest changs for me is the increase of environmental awareness. I also think water has become pivotal. In all of our conversations, we’re talking about water management through the winter and summer months.
Overall, the way that we were taught to build has changed. We’re moving on from out-of-date specifications and thinking in a new, environmentally conscious way.”
Karl Harrison, landscaping consultant and independent expert witness, founder of The Decking Network
“Fifteen years ago, landscaping still felt like an industry finding its professional identity. Today, the best businesses combine design, engineering, horticulture, construction and serious project management. Clients expect more and rightly so. For me, the biggest change has been seeing landscaping recognised as a skilled, technically demanding profession in its own right. Let’s get it licenced…”
Rupert Keys, founder and managing director, TASK Academy Ltd
“Having been fortunate enough to feature on Pro Landscaper’s very first cover, it’s been fascinating to see how much our industry has evolved over the past 15 years. Standards, professionalism, technology and expectations have all moved forward. But perhaps the biggest change I’ve seen is a growing recognition that good training, development and investing in people are essential to building a stronger future for landscaping.”
Trudy Martin, founding director, TruGrowth
“Social media has changed massively over the last 15 years. LinkedIn has gone from something we did on the side to becoming part of our everyday working lives. It’s now our shop window, where we showcase projects, show what we can do, build relationships and, importantly, generate new leads and opportunities.”
Phil Tremayne, the Association of Professional Landscapers (APL), general manager
“I have seen a great many changes over the last 15 years. Landscaping has become an increasingly professional and technically demanding industry. A new generation of landscapers are pushing the boundaries, using many refined techniques and a range of new materials. However, client expectations have risen as more information is available to them, alongside a greater emphasis on standards and sustainability. Technology has also transformed design and communication over the past 15 years. The biggest introductions were first, CDM 2015, followed later by BS753-102. Both of these have enabled skilled landscapers to be recognised as professionals delivering complex, high-quality outdoor spaces.”
With applications for Pro Landscaper’s 30 Under 30: The Next Generation 2026 initiative closing on Friday 7 August, there are just a few days left to enter.
In its 12th year, the awards look to spotlight the breadth of emerging voices across the entire industry.
Don’t think the initiative is for you? Check out this list of 30 job titles from past winners:
There are many reasons to enter the initiative, from recognising achievements to building a network. Previous winners have gone on to win Gold at RHS Chelsea Flower Show, win numerous other awards, and climb the ranks across the industry.
Winners will be selected and informed in October before being celebrated during a ceremony to take place during this year’s FutureScape event at Farnborough International Exhibition and Conference Centre on 13 – 14 October 2026.
Entries for the Pro Landscaper Sustainability & Biodiversity Awards 2026 are almost closed.
First launched in 2023, the awards are on a mission to showcase the most important initiatives across the UK landscaping sector, from leading organisations, design, construction, product supply and the people involved.
With just two weeks to go, entries will close on 10 August.
The list of categories can be found here, featuring two new categories: Ecology Team or Company and Housing Association.
The shortlist will be announced during the week commencing 31 August, followed by an awards ceremony celebrating both winning and shortlisted entrants after FutureScape on 13 October taking place at the Farnborough International Exhibition & Conference Centre.
Pro Landscaper Project Awards 2025 winner in the Design £50,000 to £100,000 category Rosemary Coldstream is next in the hot seat for a round of quick fire questions in our Little Interviews series.
Rosemary Coldstream Garden and landscape designer, Rosemary Coldstream Garden Design
What do you hope to see for the industry this year?
Stability and growth for everyone. It has been an unpredictable few years and that hasn’t changed yet. I know many are finding it tough – the house market is very sluggish which affects residential design.
What is the importance of implementing sustainable techniques within projects?
Extremely important – resources are valuable and need to be used carefully. A garden needs careful management of the soil during the build to stay healthy. Water management on site is essential whether the site is clay or sand.
What’s your favourite project you’ve worked on?
The one just completed! It is a large project that combines a sand garden with a more traditional lawn and borders garden, a kitchen garden and a large koi pond. Worked with great contractors and specialists and the client loves the garden.
Would you recommend entering the Pro Landscaper Project Awards?
Absolutely! As small companies we are our own marketing team as well as everything else. If you don’t shout about yourself who will? The awards are a great way to say we did this and are proud of it!
What did you gain from the Pro Landscaper Project Awards?
Apart from peer recognition which is lovely, it helps raise your profile and gives yourself and your design team a boost to say, hey we are doing ok!
If you could work anywhere in the world, where would it be?
New Zealand – back home for a fix of the unique scents and visual texture of the NZ landscape.
What has been the highlight of your career so far?
Winning Gold, Best in Category and People’s Choice at Chelsea Flower Show in 2023.
Who has been your biggest inspiration?
My mum! corny I know, but she had a love of gardening and sensitivity to the natural world and passed it on to me from a very early age.
On the professional side – all the women designers out there!
What would the title of your biography be?
‘Nothing Ventured, Nothing Gained’ or Life after 40! (that’s when I changed careers to garden design).
Who would play you in a film?
Melissa McCarthy (my daughter suggested her as a great actor but also funny!).
In conversation with John Haeffele at Renson, he discusses the ever-growing trend of clients extending and enriching their time in the garden.
What’s your role at Renson?
I’m the sales manager for the UK and Ireland looking after our strategic network of partners. I speak on a regular basis with our partners and have the honour of meeting end clients at such prestigious shows as RHS Chelsea Flower Show. I enjoy this the most as you get to hear exactly what their customers think of our products.
Are we seeing a rise in people wanting to make the most of the garden year-round?
Yes, it has become far more obvious to us that people value their time in the garden. We try to make that experience as enriching as possible by choosing the right partners who can design gardens that mirror the aspirations of their clients. We always appreciate that we are only a small part of that design and it is their knowledge and flair that brings it to life. Our goal is to give the clients as much opportunity to be outside all year and this reflects in our product portfolio.
Will this continue to rise?
Homeowners are increasingly viewing their gardens as an extension of their living space rather than an area used only during the summer months. The demand for comfortable, functional outdoor environments has grown significantly as people look to spend more time outdoors, entertain at home and maximise the value of their property. We expect this trend to continue as outdoor living becomes a permanent part of modern home design.
How can this be achieved?
Creating a truly usable outdoor space throughout the year requires a combination of shelter, comfort and flexibility. Solutions such as pergolas with adjustable louvred roofs, integrated lighting, heating, side elements and weather sensors allow homeowners to enjoy their outdoor space in changing conditions. By protecting against sun, rain and wind, outdoor areas can be used comfortably across all seasons.
What are some of your favourite things that Renson does?
What sets Renson apart is its focus on innovation, quality and design. Every product is developed with the belief that outdoor spaces should be enjoyed as naturally and comfortably as indoor spaces. We are particularly proud of our integrated approach, where technology, aesthetics and functionality work seamlessly together. From award winning pergolas to integrated screens, lighting and outdoor living solutions, every detail is carefully considered to enhance the outdoor experience.
How does Renson work to be as sustainable as possible?
Sustainability is embedded throughout our design and manufacturing processes. We prioritise durable, high-quality materials such as aluminium, which is highly recyclable and designed to last for decades. By creating products with a long lifespan, we reduce the need for replacement and minimise waste. We also focus on responsible manufacturing practices, efficient production methods and designing solutions that help people enjoy natural ventilation, shade and outdoor living in a more sustainable way. At Renson, sustainability is about creating products that deliver long term value for both homeowners and the environment.
What are some of your hobbies outside of work?
Seeing my two lively grandchildren most weekends keeps me fit but I do enjoy going to the gym and playing golf. I love live music and like to eat well, travelling to many destinations to try all flavours of the World.
What’s on the horizon for Renson?
We are constantly improving the design and quality of our portfolio and have more, new, exciting, innovative additions that will be introduced later in the year. We also have our award-winning Amani which goes from strength to strength in residential, commercial and hospitality environments.
Pro Landscaper Premium Plus once again hosted its Landscaping Leadership Forum, across two days at Old Thorns Hotel & Resort on 2-3 July 2026.
The annual event brings together businesses across the sector and the supply chain to create a networking and learning space for leaders and their teams.
1. Skills shortage
Aidan Bell, chief executive at idverde, noted that the landscaping industry will be one of the most AI safe industries, as AI continues to progress. It could therefore be beneficial for businesses to proposition themselves as such when promoting the industry. He stated we need to “make the industry sexy.” John Wyer, chief executive at Bowles & Wyer and vice chair of the SGLD noted that AI is a priority for its members alongside climate resilience, pressures of fees and partnerships with contractors.
The panel all discussed the importance of promoting the industry, with Jennifer Pheasey, director of policy & public affairs at the HTA explaining the importance of retelling the story of what the industry does in a language the Government understands – a key purpose of the All-Party Parliamentary Gardening and Horticulture Group. Ian Phillips, chair of the Landscape Institute’s Policy and Public Affairs Committee, shared the LI’s research which found nine in ten people want greener neighbourhoods. The findings highlighted that landscape is seen as integral to what people value rather than as an afterthought once buildings and roads have been planned.
2. Managing disruption and volatility
Ben Butler, senior policy manager, Federation of Small Businesses explained that half of small businesses aren’t getting paid on time. Paul New, partner, Azets advised finding out what your personal inflation looks like. He also suggested traffic lighting your clients with red representing those who query every single invoice or change payments. Butler stressed that businesses can charge interest on payments that are late. Butler did share that the Government has proposed to ban the practice of deducting and withholding of retention payments in construction to protect smaller firms from non-payment. New stressed that, ultimately, if you aren’t being paid you should down tools. The panel also stressed the importance of credit insurance which protects businesses against losses from unpaid invoices.
3. Urban greening factor
Wyer noted the opportunities when it comes to Urban Greening Factor, specifically in commercial projects. He also explored the opportunities for greening around offices as companies seek to encourage staff back into the office and create spaces they want to be in.
Phillips noted the friction and slowness in the planning system, though, as staff turnover in the planning system appears fairly high. Other panellists noted that it’s getting harder to get jobs across the line. The panellists discussed the benefits of diversifying in this current market, but Wyer warned that businesses should either launch a new product in a market they are already established in, or launch an established product in a new market but not both.
4. Introducing HR into a business
The panel also discussed the presence of HR with Jacob Berry, managing director of Refined Landscapes, explaining the new process since the introduction of HR personnel. The audience joined in the discussion with some noting that it makes processes more complex, others expressing that they felt HR was against them and others explaining it made them feel exposed. While others in the audience stressed that it means a business can rest easy knowing it is following the correct processes.
5. Implementing technology in your business
Colin Smith, managing director at Land Technology, talked through the businesses implementation of Re-Flow. Smith explained how it had made the teams more efficient. Previously they had been using an Excel spreadsheet and Smith says the amount of time this took up was “ridiculous” for what it provided. They also needed to have the records for compliance and invoicing but were feeling more under pressure in the process.
Piloting Re-Flow with one team, they ensured this wasn’t just a selection of younger members so that everyone understood the process. Smith explains that teams took to the new system faster than expected and that there was a marked shift in the culture. With an easier way to upload before, during and after images accountability became visible and standards improved across the business. Communication was also clearer.
Data has also been a “game-changer” with Re-Flow providing daily reports. Data is instantly captured and easily extracted for valuations. This data can also help challenge repeat issues, without conflict with clients because it’s data driven.
6. UK construction landscape
Laurence Stone, senior engagement manager at CITB, explained that UK construction output is expected to dip slightly in 2026. Short-term weakness is linked to low confidence, cost pressures and global uncertainty. But medium-term growth is expected across all areas – including public new housing and private new housing – driven by housing, infrastructure, repair and maintenance. Stone explained the strongest growth is in public housing, infrastructure and private housing.
When it comes to workers, Stone states 41,200 extra each year with the highest demand volume in senior managers, professional and technical roles and office-based roles. Demand for skilled people is also rising due to the 1.5m homes target, and, Stone explains, a clear 10-year pipeline of major infrastructure projects.
7. What does good storytelling look like?
Lawrence Stubbings, actor, coach and associate director at Talik & Co gave his advice for storytelling to seize control and reinforce value. He noted that, quoting Warren Buffet, “learning public speaking will improve your worth by 50%”. His three tips for this were:
Passion – share your enthusiasm, invite the audience to join you and smile. He stressed “your energy introduces you before you even speak”.
Clarity – be clear about your message, keep your gestures open and deliberate and have a good volume, tone and calrity to your voice.
Rehearsal – repeat, reflect and refine.
He stressed that the most important story you will tell is the story you tell yourself.
Day two hosted the iconic Pro Landscaper Golf Challenge, with several attendees taking part. This year saw Wildflower Co come out on top for the second year running. The individual competition was another close affair with Kevin Way representing Cube1994 winning with a score of 37 pipping two others (Olly Hewetson-Brown from Wildflower Co and Laurence Thor from Thor Trees) who finished joint second with 36 points.
Pro Landscaper’s newest initiative celebrates the decking suppliers that are making an outstanding contribution to the industry.
Since the launch in March, Pro Landscaper readers nominated their favourite decking suppliers across eight categories, which were then put to a final vote.
Nina Mason, content director, comments:
“One of the things we value most about the landscaping industry is its willingness to continually raise standards, and the decking sector is a fantastic example of that. The suppliers recognised through Pro Landscaper’s Most Influential Decking Suppliers awards are not only providing high-quality products, but also supporting installers, driving innovation and finding new ways to operate more sustainably.
Congratulations to all this year’s winners and finalists.”
Pro Landscaper’s Most Influential Decking Suppliers 2026:
Best Value
Champion Timber
Best Customer Service
Millboard
Best Product Range
Trex
Best Installer Support
Millboard
Best Composite Decking Supplier
Millboard
Best Timber Decking Supplier
Arbor Forest Products
Sustainability
Kebony
Most Influential Decking Leader of the Year
Karl Harrison
The winners will collect their awards at this year’s Summer Showcase which will take place before the Pro Landscaper Project Awards on 9 July at De Vere Horsley Estate in Surrey.
They will also be celebrated in Pro Landscaper’s upcoming July issue.
Pro Landscaper Premium Plus is once again hosting its Landscaping Leadership Forum, which will take place across two days this year at Old Thorns Hotel & Resort on 2-3 July 2026.
The annual event brings together businesses across the sector and the supply chain to create a networking and learning space for leaders and their teams. Pro Landscaper Premium Plus has revealed the full agenda ahead of the forum.
Day one will include the unveiling of the State of the Nation industry research survey to the entire landscaping industry.
The day will continue with talks from business experts as well as a drinks reception and networking dinner with a guest speaker, David Dodd owner and managing director of The Outdoor Room.
Registration is open from 12.30pm.
Full agenda
Pro Landscaper State of Nation Industry research – What’s on the boardroom agenda?
Practical and strategic insight on some of the biggest opportunities, challenges and priorities for business and the sector.
What does the research really mean? And what can attendees take-away that will be key for business and will give (or maintain) competitive edge.
Host: Rachael Forsyth, editor, Pro Landscaper UK
Panel:
Aidan Bell chief executive, idverde
Jennifer Pheasey, director of policy & public affairs, HTA
John Wyer, chief executive, Bowles & Wyer
Productivity and people
Finding capacity without hiring – Colin Smith, managing director, Land Technology
Case study on implementing technology in your business
How else can I develop my people? – Laurence Stone, Senior Engagement Manager, CITB
CITB initiatives for the wider construction sector to address skills shortages and how the landscape contractors can access programmes
Advocacy
Three top tips on storytelling to seize control and reinforce value – Lawrence Stubbings, actor, coach and associate director at Talik & Co
Managing disruption and volatility
Looking at what’s on the horizon and the action you can take to ensure your business is resilient.
What and where might any potential impact be? How can businesses get a grip on cashflow and payments? And how can new legislation support our sector?
Host: Phil Jones, founder of Appletree Bay Consultancy
Panel:
Paul New, partner, Azets
Ben Butler, senior policy manager, Federation of Small Businesses
Jacob Berry, managing director, Refined Landscapes
I’ve been writing my monthly column in Pro Landscaper for five years. This is something I’m incredibly proud of, not because of the writing itself, but because of what it represents. For me it’s been about raising standards in an industry I’ve spent my life working in.
Much of what I’ve written over the past five years has come directly from what I see on site. The reality is that the same problems come up. Poor installation, lack of understanding, and a growing race to the bottom in pricing and workmanship continue to affect the industry. Too often, contractors are underpricing, cutting corners, and not working to recognised standards. That is not always criticism, in most cases it’s observation. Once you understand the causes, you can start to fix them.
Across all my articles, the core message has remained consistent. Standards matter. Documents such as BS 7533 provide clear, structured guidance on how pavements should be constructed. It’s a document I’m proud to have had some input into and be a committee member of. In practice, however, many contractors either do not engage with them or do not fully understand how they translate to real site conditions. It’s impossible to consistently deliver professional results without working to recognised standards. That is the benchmark.
Over the last five years, the industry itself has evolved. The rise of porcelain paving, an increase in design-led projects, higher client expectations and greater visibility through social media have all changed the landscape. However, alongside that progress, there has also been an increase in failures and disputes.
Working as an expert witness has probably shaped my perspective more than anything else. When you are assessing work after it has failed, patterns become clear very quickly. Most issues come down to the same fundamental problems: inadequate ground preparation, poor drainage and falls, lack of effective edge restraint, unsuitable materials, and a failure to follow standards. None of these are complex engineering challenges, but all of them are critical to the performance of the finished surface.
Publications like Pro Landscaper play an important role in highlighting these issues. They provide a platform where knowledge can be shared across the industry, connecting contractors, designers and suppliers. The value of that should not be underestimated, because sometimes a single article, read at the right time, can prevent a failure on site. That has always been the intention behind my writing. Not to criticise, but to improve.
Five years on, the aim remains the same. It is about improving understanding, supporting good and willing to learn contractors, reducing failure and promoting best practice. Paving does not need to be complicated, but it requires knowledge and a willingness to progress with better, more up to date installation methods. When the fundamentals are done correctly the result will last.
In the end, the difference between paving that lasts five years and paving that lasts fifty years is rarely the material, it’s the understanding behind how it was built.
I would like to thank Jim, Lisa, Jamie and Nina for all their help and support, especially at a time when my career was changing direction and things were a little uncertain.
Pro Landscaper has announced members of the team will be running the Royal Parks Half 2026 for horticultural charity Perennial.
Taking place on 11 October, the 13.1-mile event takes route in many of London’s iconic landscapes and four of the Royal Parks – Hyde Park, The Green Park, St James’s Park and Kensington Gardens.
Content director Nina Mason, managing director Jamie Wilkinson, sales manager Dan Green and portfolio director Tom Proudley will be taking part in the half marathon, raising funds for Perennial, the UK’s only dedicated horticulture charity.
Mason says, “we’re really excited to take on the challenge of running a half marathon for Perennial,” adding:
“It’s charity that we’ve worked closely with over the years and one that helps the industry immensely, so anything we can do to help raise funds for it is worth every single mile!”
After months in partaking in the weekly Pro Landscaper run club, the team are looking forward to a summer of training ahead of the event.
The deadline for entries has been extended for the Pro Landscaper Project Awards.
Now closing on 4 May, the hunt for projects continues for another week.
The category list, now including the all-new Project Awards PLUS Garden category, look to spotlight projects delivered by landscapers and garden designers.
The award ceremony, which will take place on 9 July 2026 at De Vere Horsley Estate in Surrey, will be once again sandwiched between a Summer Showcase and the Pro Landscaper Summer Party.
Garden designers focussed on shows such as RHS Chelsea Flower Show are also encouraged to submit projects.
The entry guide is available to download here, with the full list of categories available to view here.
Shortlisted entries will be announced during the week commencing 11 May.
Over the last year, Pro Landscaper has celebrated numerous awards, been invited to several exciting events, as well as hosting the second Pro Landscaper on Tour.
Here are the team’s top 10 highlights:
Pro Landscaper on Tour with Boom & Bonheur
In September, Pro Landscaper hosted its second trip on tour, this time with Boom & Bonheur for a behind the scenes journey across its tree nurseries in Germany and The Netherlands. A cohort of select landscapes and garden designers accompanied the team to learn about the nursery’s 1,500 varieties of trees, its machinery and its background.
From feature gardens to borders, each show celebrated its designers and landscapers after months of hard work.
The biggest Royal Horticultural Society show of the year, RHS Chelsea Flower Show celebrated gardens battling HIV stigma, feminism and climate change fears.
Launch of two Most Influential awards
The first of its kind, Pro Landscaper’s Most Influential awards celebrated the nation’s best stone suppliers and nurseries.
From sangrias to tapas, Husqvarna had more than just Spanish cuisine to keep the guests happy. Under the autumn sun, 120 guests from 23 countries gathered at La Lltja de Mar, a 14th century building fit with a courtyard readying to hear from inspirational voices across the industry. Highlights included speeches from Liverpool Football Club on its sustainability achievements, a dive into Barcelona’s nature plan and Husqvarna’s new product launches.
Team at Perennial Dig Deep Lunch
In support of Perennial, the Dig Deep Fundraising Lunch at The Cumberland in London took place in October.
The lunch celebrated eight supporters helping people across the horticultural industry, raising £36,500.
Mark Gregory, Kingston Landscape Group and Stihl were amongst those awarded with Perennial’s Silver Shovel Spotlight Awards.
BD landscape architects book launch and Cardinal Place tour
Marking 15 years of BD landscape architects and the launch of its new book, the firm invited the team to the autumn social in Victoria, London in October.
Paired with a tour of recently transformed and award-winning Cardinal Place, the firm explained its regeneration plans which included the design of a welcoming, bold and biophilic public space.
Landscape as a Catalyst for Change dives into BD’s projects, as well as hearing from director Rob Beswick.
Nina Mason on Inside the Green Room live
Content director Nina Mason joined Marc Lane and Justin Himpson on Inside The Green Room’s Instagram live in September. Discussing all things landscaping awards, Mason explained how entering your company into landscaping awards is more than just a trophy – it can be pivotal for your brand and team.
Pro Landscaper and FutureScape Golf Challenge
Pro Landscaper and FutureScape hosted its Golf Challenge 2025 at Goodwood Estate on Thursday 12 June with Wildflower Turf driving it home and picking up first place.
The day was a great opportunity for industry professionals to network over a shared love for golf and a healthy dose of friendly competition.
A toast to Pro Landscaper team
On a sunny Friday afternoon in August, the Pro Landscaper team swapped meetings for mimosas alongside a delicious brunch in Arundel. From editorial and sales, to design and marketing, the team gathered for some time-off in celebration of the year’s achievements.
Pro Landscaper Summer Spectacular
On one of the hottest days of the year, Pro Landscaper hosted its first Summer Spectacular at the De Vere Horsley Estate in Surrey.
It kicked off with the Summer Showcase, celebrating 30 years of the Association of Professional Landscapers, in association with Deponti. The outdoor festival on Friday 11 July brought together contractors, designers and the supply chain for a series of fun games and activities, including a hotly contested tug of war.
This was followed by the annual Pro Landscaper Project Awards, in association with Hortus Loci Landscapes, hosted by award-winning comedian Thanyia Moore. A Moroccan-themed Summer Party celebrating 30 years of the APL, in association with Landscapeplus, closed the night.
As we officially welcome in winter, with its long nights and crisp mornings – made easier by the twinkle of Christmas light adorning our streets – December represents a time for change and an opportunity to start anew.
Whether it’s starting a new chapter better than the last, or closing the door on a challenging 12 months, December gives us the chance to reflect on the year just gone and learn from all that has happened, helping prepare us for the months ahead.
Join us as we take a look back on some of the major moments from across the industry this year, as well as some of our own pivotal milestones in the 2025 December issue of Pro Landscaper.
In this issue:
Let’s Hear It From…Joe Perkins. Blending construction known-how with ecological insights – designer, Joe Perkins shares his approach to purpose-driven landscape design.
Blooming Success. From growing their teams to winning major projects, companies across the industry reflect on their achievements from the year.
Looking Drought-full. As rainfall quantity drops and temperatures rise, England faces another year of drought – are we prepared?
Also in this issue:
Movers and shakers of the Year. Whether it’s winning awards or climbing the career ladder – see who’s leaving their mark in 2025.
Keeping it Reel. In a digital world where things are constantly evolving and content is a revolving door; how do you stand out?
2025 News Roundup. Look back on some of the biggest news stories of the year – from anniversaries and launches to major investments and projects.
Urban design is coming back around and we are now finding ways to mitigate the effects of climate change, through the creation of multifunctional spaces, asKate Richardsexplains.
We’re seeing more responsible consideration given over to the importance of inner-city wildlife with legislations likeBNG, as well as making cities more attractive places to live, both for us and nature, asChristopher Martin andNigel Glogan explain.
It’s a breath of fresh air to see the tide changing and wildlife being welcomed back into our cities, so while it may be a rocky journey to get there, it is one worth taking.
The Pro Landscaper Reader Survey is open to submissions for just one more week.
For the last two weeks, Pro Landscaper readers have had a chance to vocalise their opinions on the magazine in an effort to help shape its future.
Whether there’s a particular person or company you’d like to see featured, a topic you’d like to read more about; Pro Landscaper are all ears.
In the same regard, Pro Landscaper also want to hear about your favourite articles and what you would like to continue to see throughout the issue. Whether that’s particular suppliers, products or certain contributors.
Bethany Vann, deputy editor of Pro Landscaper also urges readers to submit their insight:
“At Pro Landscaper we’re never ones to sit still, we are always looking for ways to grow, and what better way to evolve than through feedback? We’ve been the trusted source of news and insights for the industry for almost 15 years; a large part of that is because we remain steadfast in our commitment to listening to what it is our readers want.
“So, help shape the future of Pro Landscaper magazine with your feedback today!”
For a chance to win a £100 Amazon voucher, submit your thoughts and opinions in the Pro Landscaper Reader Survey before it closes on 7 November.
Applications are now open for the 2026 Pro Landscaper Business Awards, with winners set to be announced at a ceremony in London.
Now in its ninth year, the Pro Landscaper Business Awards are continually evolving to represent the very best of the industry.
With that growth in mind, the 2026 awards now boast 20 categories, three of which are new to the line up:
Business Leader, introduced as a way to recognise the individuals driving the success of their companies.
Garden Designer; formed to celebrate and recognise garden designers running their own successful businesses.
Landscaping Champion; created as a way to celebrate the individuals helping showcase the value of the sector.
This category will be open to nominations and can include industry personalities, politicians, industry leaders and social media voices to name a few. The shortlist for Landscaping Champion will then be put to an industry vote.
Other changes to the 2026 Pro Landscaper Business Awards include the evolution of the Employer of the Year, for which the criteria now recognises the industry’s ambition to encourage diversity within its ranks.
The Business Investment or Acquisition category has also had a refresh; now inviting applications from management buyouts and Employee Ownership Trusts that are having a transformative impact on businesses.
Formerly Garden Design Company, the category has evolved into Garden Design Studio, directed at studios with a directly employed team of multiple designers.
Eljays44 divisional director, David Griffiths comments on the launch, saying:
“These awards are unique and so important in celebrating the consistent and exceptional business success that has been delivered. They provide an opportunity for owners and their teams to ensure the incredible efforts are given the opportunity to be recognised which can then help power further growth.”
The full list of categories is as follows:
Arboriculture Company In partnership with Beechwood Trees & Landscapes
Business Investment or Acquisition
Business Leader
Commercial Landscape Company In partnership with Green-tech
Design and Build Company
Employer of the Year In partnership with Fresh Horticultural Careers
Garden Design Studio In partnership with Millboard
Garden Designer
Grounds Maintenance Company In partnership with Forst
Industry Collaboration
Landscape Architecture Studio In partnership with Boom & Bonheur
Landscaping Champion
Landscape Company Under £750k Turnover
Landscape Company £750k – £2m Turnover
Landscape Company £2m – £5m Turnover In partnership with Bourne Amenity
Landscape Company Over £5m Turnover
New Company (Under Two Years Old)
Supplier and Service Provider
Sustainable Company of the Year
Trade Nursery of the Year In partnership with APL
The Pro Landscaper Business Awards will take place on Friday 24 April 2026 at Old Billingsgate in London.
There is also an early bird offering, which means entrants can save £70 per category if they confirm and pay before 28 November. Enter here.
