Editorial

Retail

History, improvement and innovation still drive GIG

By John Fitzsimmons

As MC Chloe Thompson (‘the horticulturist of many hats’*) commented, the last year has been challenging for many enterprises in our industry. However, as presentations at the Garden Inspirations Group (GIG) 2024 event unfolded in Melbourne it was clear that history, improvement and innovation still drive those who service the greenlife sector – especially independent garden centres.Continue reading

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Business File

Increase rates and continue to increase work

By John Corban

How can I increase my rates and win the work I want?

What is the reason for wanting to increase fees?
If you look at your P&L statement and don’t like the profit you see you need to delve deeper to discover why this is happening.… Continue reading

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Nursery Papers

Nursery Papers – Ecohort

Establishing your environmental credentials

Introduction: Greenlife businesses must prioritise sustainability for long‑term success.

Post-pandemic, sustainability has become one of business’ top investment priorities, on par with maintaining a strong financial position and staffing.

By improving sustainability, you can better attract and retain staff, build brand reputation and customer demand, find new opportunities and emerging markets – ultimately increasing your productivity to gain a competitive advantage.… Continue reading

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Newsbuds

A weed with many uses

In a world-first study, researchers at the University of South Australia (UniSA) screened 50 native plants and weeds to find a cheaper and more environmentally friendly source for the bulk producing urease enzymes, used to strengthen soil and help to prevent erosion.… Continue reading

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Business File

Sustainable economic success

By Karen Smith

For more than 60 years Benara Nurseries in Western Australia has ticked many boxes to become one of Australia’s most successful production nurseries. With a commitment to sustainability, quality services, and their team, what contributes to their longevity and economic success?Continue reading

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Industry Event

Inclusion inspires the landscape industry

Supplied by the Landscape Association

Members and friends of The Landscape Association celebrated International Women’s Day (IWD) recently with a gathering and discussion by industry leaders, highlighting the role and future of women in the industry.

Held at The Butchers Block in Granville, Sydney, speakers from different sectors of the landscape industry shared their thoughts on the theme of #InspireInclusion in front of 70 members and guests.… Continue reading

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Editors editorial

Keeping your eyes peeled on paper

Lately we have received a lot of positive feedback about Hort Journal and our articles, via both email and text messages, and also during discussions. I want to thank those people as it gives me enormous pleasure to pass the feedback on to the contributors of the magazine, and as we are a small team, every cog in the wheel is crucial to a successful outcome.… Continue reading

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Industry Event

Tech and environment star at the 40th IPM Horti Expo

By John Fitzsimmons

This year marked the 40th Anniversary of the IPM Essen horticultural expo in Germany. It hosted 1400 specialist exhibitors from 14 countries presenting over a massive 100,000m² and 10 exhibition halls. Technology that enhances efficient greenlife production, especially innovations that improve productivity and respond to environmental challenges, were again a feature.Continue reading

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Business Profile

Nursery business offers more than plants

By Karen Smith

I don’t believe it is possible to overestimate the benefits of horticulture to the wider community. It is an inclusive endeavour suited to all ages and skill levels. A conversation I had recently with Chris Shepard and Peter Lyles from Worn Gundidj nursery in Warrnambool reinforced my conviction there is more to a nursery than plants.Continue reading

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Greener Spaces Better Places Update

What’s Growing on?

Welcome to this month’s Greener Spaces Better Places program update. Read on to find out the latest news and highlights to keep you up to date on what’s happening and how you can benefit.

A dynamic two-way conversation between industry experts and Australian greenlife consumers has been rolling out via the @GreenerSpacesBetterPlaces Instagram channel.… Continue reading

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