Horticulture companies to strike deal

Garden centre firm Webbs is in talks with a reputable horticulture charity over a possible union between the two.

According to the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS), the Worcestershire-based company is discussing a possible union with Garden Organic, which would see it take over retail, conference and catering options at its Ryton site.

The 8.9-hectare organic garden would still be run by Garden Organic, as well as its administration of charitable activities and research, but Webbs would help boost the charitys profile by commandeering the retail side of the business.

An announcement of the deal is expected in the next month or so and one of the main highlights of such a union for garden and greenhouse lovers is that they should have greater access to Garden Organics Heritage Seed Library, which contains many classic varieties.

In other news, the RHS recently suggested that gardeners take note of what species look interesting during the winter months and plant them for next year.