Producing bedding plants on site for some 20 years, Chelmsford City Council Parks Department is now one of just three in Essex producing its plants in-house for civic displays.  The department holds 13 Green Flag Awards – an international quality mark for outstanding parks and green spaces.  

 The Council’s small production team grows in excess of 60,000 bedding plants for its striking summer and winter schemes.

“Growing your own offers many advantages,” says Andy Eaves, quality control officer. “It gives us greater adaptability and control. We have the luxury of growing what we want and adjusting planting dates, as necessary, to work around the weather - such as avoiding late frosts. Producing slightly more than we initially need means there are spares available to slot in, for instance if there is theft or vandalism of plants.

“While of course council budgets are tight, growing our own enables us to be resourceful and make improvements year on year,” he says.

While at first glance the Parks Department growing facilities may appear dated compared to many larger commercial nurseries, the small experienced team produces an impressive array of plants of the highest quality.

“We’ve always mixed our own growing media,” says Andy Eaves.  “Having trialed material from different suppliers, and taking in to account performance and price, we settled on two custom ICL mixes, supplied in 75l bags which are practical for feeding in to our potting machine.”

 Andy, who has worked at the nursery for some twenty years, has always put his trust in Osmocote. 

“Osmocote has consistently delivered and the different longevities, up to 14

months, are very useful,” he says.  “In summer months we mix in Osmocote Exact High K, with a 5-6 month longevity.  In the autumn, the polyanthus and primroses don’t require so much feed and we switch to Levington M1 potting.  

“Now featuring our patented Double Coating Technology, Osmocote Exact High K optimises the release of new raw materials matching the demand of the plant,” explains Stuart Gammage, ICL’s technical area sales manager.  “With an ideal nitrogen to potassium ratio, combined with low phosphorus, it encourages compact growth by reducing stretching. 

“Optimising EC in the first few weeks after potting, plant roots develop well and with a full trace element package − including improved iron release − Osmocote Exact High K delivers excellent leaf shine and colour.”

Stuart pops in regularly to review progress and offer advice to the team.  “He is a great asset,” says Andy.   “An experienced nurseryman, his advice is invaluable – he helps keep us on our toes!”