I would agree with Dahlia Lover that Garden Centres are not always expensive, and there are excellent and knowledgeable staff in some, but Adams original question, was, are they dull, and sadly some are. Clearly, with over 30 posts in this thread, as a journalist Adam has done his job and got everyone, including the owners and managers of Garden Centres, talking and thinking about improvement. It can only do good! The next question is, where am I going to put all the plants I've grown, bought on line, from nurseries, and yes, from Garden Centres. We do enjoy a great choice, but theirs no harm in shaking the odd seed packet to see if things can improve. Job done, Adam, keep up the good work.
I work in a homebase garden centre in yorkshire and its a shame there is little inspiration for saying they enter a garden in the rhs shows we could do with like you say recreating a border with all plants etc being there to take away if you wish. i will keep this in mind for when i open my own garden nursery.
I agree with soil appreciation. What has happened to compost these days. you used to be able to buy really good quality fine grade multipurpose compost, that had no lumps or bit of "plastic" in it. Now even the most expensive compost is NOT rotted down enough. I end up sieving it before I can use it for sowing seeds. Also, why does compost have to be so compacted now. It is like trying to tear a bale of hay apart. I guess it is so they can store it in a smaller area. Not much compensation when you have got bad arthritis though.
I do not agree that garden centres are boring. There are some that give them a bad name but there are those that will go all out to help their customers. I happen to work for one that has this in mind. I think A-Z is a good idea as it aids customers as well as staff and enables you to offer a bigger range of plants. but I think you do need to combine this with some form of inspiration.
All I can say is if your not happy with your centre let them know or find another because if they can't take you complaints seriously then they are not wrth your money.
Most large garden centre chains are driven by entirely commercial motives and have diversified into providing what may be perceived as a "customer experience" that extends beyond the provision of quality plants and advice that Adam Pasco seeks. I sometimes share his disappointment and leave without making a purchase or without being excited by the plants on view. I have a further concern regarding the well known DIY stores with their garden sections which are often poorly maintained leading to sorry displays of plants. If they cannot do it well they should leave it to the experts who will care for their plants.
My favourite garden centre is the one at Wisley. I often spend more time in there than visiting the gardens. Everything labelled, advice if you want it, and inspiration in the displays.
The problem I have always had with garden centres is that they never sell a good range, if any, of hydroponics equipment. It's always what's currently trendy or of course, most profitable, regardless of use.
I may have opportunity to input/take an active role in building up a local nursery - which after several years has sadly never quite got off the ground. So the debate & thought provoking line of comment is very timely, thank you.
Additional KEY pointers for attracting new business and local interest is most welcome.
Perhaps with a clean canvas & fresh sustainable ideas, 'we' can combine creative inspirational alternatives to practically bridge perceived market gaps. TPH
the wyevale garden centre (lower morden garden centre) is fairly good, it's not amazing, but it's decent enough, 6.5/7 out of 10, staff are always cheery and helpful
Posts
expensive bags, only to find it,s now rubbish?
i will keep this in mind for when i open my own garden nursery.
All I can say is if your not happy with your centre let them know or find another because if they can't take you complaints seriously then they are not wrth your money.
George Pattenson
Additional KEY pointers for attracting new business and local interest is most welcome.
Perhaps with a clean canvas & fresh sustainable ideas, 'we' can combine creative inspirational alternatives to practically bridge perceived market gaps. TPH