Celebrate the season with gifts and gardens inspired by nature. Our planting features British natives and cultivars which combine the double gifts of beauty for us, plus food and shelter for wildlife.
Blog
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Autumnal Acers
If there is one tree above all others that captures the spirit of Autumn then it has to be the Acer. These versatile trees come in a spectrum of colours, but Japanese Maples (Acer palmatum varieties) are possibly the most ideal for creating Autumn colour in the garden. At Coolings we grow hundreds of these plants each year on our own nursery.
Growing tips:
• Acers are happiest grown in acidic soil (ericaceous) and in dappled shade. The best Autumn colours are achieved in these conditions.
• Ideal for smaller gardens as they grow well in large containers for a stunning focal point, select a study pot around twice the size of the one the Acer is already in.
• Autumn is the best time to plant an Acer.
• Plant in a mix of equal-parts ericaceous compost and John Innes No.3.
• Good for a shady spot in the garden.
Did you know?
The changing colour of Acer leaves in autumn is caused by the shift in concentration of three photosynthetic pigments in the leaves, brought on by reduced daylight hours and lower temperatures. The three pigments represent green, yellow/orange, and red/purple. The leaf colour changes as these pigments break down and this is affected by environmental conditions, which explains why plants of the same species produce more spectacular colours in different geographical areas or from one year to the next.
Here are some of our favourite varieties for Autumn and Winter interest…
Acer ‘Sango Kaku’
The coral bark maple leaves turn a golden yellow in Autumn and the striking red bark is a stunning Winter feature.Acer ‘Bi Ho’
A fabulous variety with orangey-yellow stems for Winter interest, providing all year round interest.Acer ‘Osakazuki’
This stronger growing Acer is regarded as the very best for Autumnal colour change as it transforms from green to a blazing mix of yellows and reds.
Acer ‘Garnet’ This fantastic Acer is the perfect choice for growing in a pot. The beautiful dissected purple foliage is carried from Spring to Autumn.Acer ‘Shaina’
Lovely maple with leaves that turn crimson in Autumn.
Don’t forget to pick up some Acer Feed to encourage healthy growth and vibrant colours, suitable for Acers in borders, pots and containers. For best results, apply to the soil during planting – one feed lasts a whole season and the packet is resealable ready to store for next season.
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In Bloom 2023 Winners Announced!
As devoted supporters of local community projects, including ‘In Bloom’, since the 1970s, Coolings are excited to be engaging local residents with the joy of gardening and supporting the essence of the competition, which is to help transform areas into better places to live and work, and to make residents, businesses and communities proud of their town.
Thank you to everyone that entered, and a heartfelt congratulations to all the winners. It is always a joy seeing your lovely hard work.
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September & October Feel Good Garden
Grow plants in naturalistic layers to provide aesthetic interest, improve wildlife habitats, increase food production potential and maximise leaf surface area for carbon uptake!
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Create the Perfect Autumn Planter
Here’s what you’ll need to put together the perfect autumnal planter – we call this one ‘Frosty Morning’.
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Fresh fruit on your doorstep – literally!
At Coolings, we offer a variety of autumnal patio fruit plants, perfect for growing in pots, containers and raised planters. Great for smaller outside areas or just ensuring a compact and tidy plant!
Here we have highlighted a few of the best new varieties for growing in pots, plus some recipe idea – nothing worse than wasted produce!
Shop soft fruit trees here
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Shades of Autumn
As we leave behind the vibrant noise of summer bedding, the shift can be a softer move with our favourite perennial late bloomers that carry the garden’s colour from the warmer months to a colder chill. There are a wide range of perennials, shrubs and acers perfect for giving your garden that cosy, warming glow, still thriving with life and colour.
Put the kettle on, take a look in the garden and take inspiration from the firework of colours that these plants deliver.
Shop Herbaceous Perennials | Shop Shrubs | Shop Acers
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Coffee Shop Monthly Specials
September – Raspberries
This month, we are incorporating this much loved fruit into our sweet treats, raspberries are packed with antioxidants and vitamins C & E.
- Raspberry & White Chocolate Muffins
- Raspberry Eton Mess Cheesecake
- Vegan Raspberry Bakewell
October – Butternut Squash
Rich in vitamins, minerals and disease fighting antioxidants, used as a warming, main component in our October dishes.
- Butternut Squash & Goats Cheese Salad
- Butternut Squash Soup
- Butternut Squash, Chickpea & Spinach Curry (V) – only available at Arthurs.
November – Carrot
A staple, source of fibre & potassium. We couldn’t celebrate autumnal veggies without a firm favourite. Vegan and Gluten Free alternatives available too.
- Carrot Cake
- Carrot & Coriander Soup
December – Apples and Cranberries
We start the Christmas festivities with a customer favourite, available throughout December.
- Apple Pie
- Cranberry Bread Pudding
- Apple & Cranberry Crumble – only available at Arthurs.
Fancy a coffee? Our seasonal coffee flavours are; Cinnamon Cappuccino, Pumpkin Spiced Latter or Gingerbread Hot Chocolate.
Visit our cafés/ restaurant to try our specials and full menu!
The Gardener’s Garden Centre – Arthurs Restaurant | Coolings Lifestyle – Blueberry Café | Coolings Wych Cross Garden Centre – The Hybrid Tea Room
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Houseplant heaven
Shop our huge range of houseplants online
or Visit in-store: find your nearest Coolings Garden Centre here
