At LawnsOne, the community has a central position in our core values; it drives our day-to-day decision-making, including who, as an organisation, we try to support. 

Over the years LawnsOne has raised £1000’s for the charities we support, whether through company giving or sponsored events. Some of our beneficiaries include Great Ormond Street Hospital, Diabetes UK, Bowel Cancer UK, Epilepsy Action, Mind, MacMillan Cancer Support, and the Pilgrims Hospice.

“Ever since we started, 2 decades ago, LawnsOne has always strived to do what’s right. Not just by our customers but by our wider stakeholders and community. Simply put, we try to do our bit.”

Martin Ashdown, Lead Technician & Founder

Our Charitable Focus in 2024

The LawnsOne Team have all had family members or friends who have been affected by Dementia in some form or another. In 2024 we are committing to do ‘our bit’ to raise both funds and awareness for Dementia UK. You can visit our fundraising page here.

Dementia UK

Dementia UK are the specialist nursing charity that is there for the whole family. Their nurses, known as Admiral Nurses, provide free, life-changing support and advice to anyone affected by dementia.

Every three minutes, someone in the UK develops dementia – it’s one of the biggest health challenges of our time. Families affected are often left feeling exhausted and overwhelmed and don’t know where to turn. But with the support of an Admiral Nurse and Dementia UK, families facing the fear and confusion of dementia know they’re not alone.

“Every day, Admiral Nurses help families up and down the country to have the best life possible for as long as possible. Whether it’s on our Helpline, through our virtual or face-to-face clinics or in the community, our nurses give families affected by dementia the much-needed space to talk to someone who understands. It’s why so many people describe Admiral Nurses as a lifeline.

We are working hard to grow the number of Admiral Nurses across the UK so every family affected by dementia can access their support – whenever they need it.

Together, we can ensure that no one has to face dementia alone.”

How We Help

LawnsOne will donate £20 directly to Dementia UK for every successful referral made by an existing customer. You can read more and get involved here.

Locally . . .

As usual, the team will continue to support the Pilgrims Hospice in Ashford (close to our HQ) by joining in with some fundraising activities during the year! The Pilgrims Hospice work began 35 years ago, with the vision of one village nurse, Ann Robertson, the Pilgrims Hospice Lifetime President. Ann wanted to make a difference for the people in her community facing terminal illness. Thanks to her devotion, and the help of countless others, today they have over 200 Pilgrims nurses and therapists. Together they support thousands of people in East Kent each year.

The foundation of a successful wildflower patch, however, large or small, lies in the seeds we sow. 

At LawnsWild, we’ve worked with local experts to carefully select a range of native wildflowers

Let’s dive into the wildflower palette we employ for mini meadows, exploring their unique characteristics and the benefits they bring to your garden’s ecosystem.

The Pollinator Mix

This is bursting with easy to grow wildflowers and UK native species such as kidney vetch, oxeye daisy, corn chamomile, field forget-me-not, cornflower, lady’s bedstraw and tufted vetch.

The Cornfield Annuals Wildflower Mix:

This contact species such as; corncockle, scented mayweed, corn chamomile, field forget-me-not, cornflower, corn poppy, corn marigold, opium poppy, wild mustard, night flowering catchfly and field pansy.

North Downs Wildflower Mix:

Native species such as, birds foot trefoil, black medick, meadow buttercup, sanfoin, salad burnet, selfheal, and St. John’s Wort, all grown and harvested across the North Downs and Weald of Kent

The Bespoke Mix

If you’d like a bespoke mix of any of the species outlined above you can just let us know.

A Community of Wildflowers

This story is one creating a harmonious community of plants. The selected flowers bloom at different times, ensuring a continuous supply of food for pollinators and ongoing visual interest for you. Seasonal changes bring shifts in colours and textures, turning your wild patch into a dynamic piece of living art.

A Win for Aesthetics and Biodiversity

A wildflower patch in your garden provides a dual benefit: it enhances your garden’s aesthetics with vibrant flowers, while supporting insects and pollinators and creating a diverse habitat for wildlife.

Watching your garden attract various birds, bees, and butterflies can be a truly rewarding experience.

Curious about wildflower areas?

We would love to discuss how we can turn a portion of your outdoor area into a vibrant, biodiverse space. Contact us today!

For many homeowners, a perfectly manicured lawn has long been the gold standard of garden aesthetics. 

Pristine emerald-green expanses, free from the interruption of weeds or wildflowers, have become a symbol of sophistication and care. However, what about biodiversity? And how can we contribute to efforts that support the overall health of our ecosystem?

Wildflower Area: A Compromise Between Aesthetics and Nature

Enter wildflower patches – a perfect compromise between maintaining an aesthetically pleasing garden and boosting the local ecosystem. 

The idea behind our wild flower area service is simple; a small portion of your garden will serve as a home to a variety of native plants, to attract insects and birds thereby encouraging a more biodiverse environment.

The benefits of this approach extend beyond the environment too.

Wildflower areas can also enhance the aesthetic of your garden. The contrast between the manicured lawn and the wild patch can provide a unique charm, breathing life and character into your outdoor space.

The Process: How LawnsOne Can Help You Integrate a Wild Patch into Your Garden

At LawnsOne, we are committed to helping our clients contribute positively to the local ecosystem while maintaining the beauty of their gardens. Our wild flower area service includes identifying the right spot, providing and sowing a selection of native wildflower seeds, and giving advice on how to care for your new wild patch.

Our expert team will ensure that your new wildflower area complements the rest of your garden including any existing lawn, choosing plants that are both beautiful and beneficial to local wildlife. Over time, you’ll witness your garden transform into a biodiversity hotspot, attracting everything from pollinating bees to colourful butterflies.

Curious about wildflower areas?

We would love to discuss how we can turn a portion of your outdoor area into a vibrant, biodiverse space. Contact us today!

If you are a resident of Kent or planning to visit the area, you might want to check out some of the best garden centres in the region. Explore our handpicked selection of 7 top-notch nurseries and green havens for gardening enthusiasts.

1. Coolings

Coolings is an award-winning, independent Garden Centre group located in Kent and East Sussex. Perhaps we have a soft spot for Coolings being LawnsOne shares their ‘family business’ roots but that doesn’t negate the fact they have a stunning range of plants, garden accessories, and gifts. 

The centre is designed to inspire and educate gardeners of all levels and we highly recommend a visit.

Address: Rushmore Hill, Knockholt, Sevenoaks TN14 7NN, United Kingdom map
Website: http://www.coolings.co.uk/
Phone: +44 1959 532269
Google Review Score: 4.5 out of 5 stars

2. Ruxley Manor Garden Centre

Ruxley Manor Garden Centre is a multi-award-winning garden centre located in Sidcup, Kent. The centre has been around for over 100 years and offers a wide range of plants, garden accessories, and gifts. They also have an excellent restaurant and a pet department so it’s great for the kids/grandchildren.

Address: Maidstone Rd, Sidcup DA14 5BQ, United Kingdom Map
Website: www.ruxley-manor.co.uk
Phone: +44 20 8300 0084
Google Review Score: 4.3 out of 5 stars

3. Longacres Garden Centre, Bybrook Barn

We think Longacres is a superb spot after, some years ago, they completed a very extensive renovation. There’s a pleasant little restaurant and in addition to a beautiful range of plants and flowers, they have a furniture and barbecue department and a wide range of fish, reptiles, tanks and accessories.

Address: Cemetery Ln, Kennington, Ashford TN24 9JZ, United Kingdom Map
Website: https://www.longacres.co.uk/
Phone: +441233631959
Google Review Score: 4.5 out of 5 stars

4. Polhill Garden Centre

Another brilliantly family-owned garden centre with over 50 years of experience, Polhil shares LawnsOne’s values around community; it’s a great place to enjoy afternoon teas and snacks in addition to their exceptional range.

It’s also great for kids or grandchildren with all-weather surfaces, slides and climbing frames among other activities. 

Address: London Rd, Badgers Mount, Sevenoaks TN14 7BD, United Kingdom Map
Website: www.polhill.co.uk
Phone: 01959534212
Google Review Score: 4.4 out of 5 stars

5. Millbrook Garden Centre

With a lovely back-story, Millbrook is another garden centre sharing LawnsOne’s values of supporting local charities and family business history. It was originally started in the humble surroundings of just “three leaky greenhouses and a summer house (the office)”. 

Their customers are saying things like “The range of plants is superb” and “everything you would want or need for the garden and gifts galore”, we think it’s definitely worth a visit!

Address: Station Rd, Southfleet, Gravesend DA13 9PA, United Kingdom Map
Website: www.millbrookgc.co.uk
Phone: +44 1474 331135
Google Review Score: 4.3 out of 5 stars

6. Gardening World Limited

No, it’s nothing to do with the popular BBC show or magazine but rather, what sets this centre apart is its vast display of exclusive, hand-made flower pots from as far away as Vietnam & Ghana. 

It shares its location with the “largest collection of West African crafts in the UK ” so makes a perfect pitstop for a less than usual present. 

Address: Lower Hartlip Rd, Newington, Sittingbourne ME9 7SZ, United Kingdom Map
Website: https://www.gardeningworldlimited.co.uk/
Phone: +441795841199
Google Review Score: 4.7 out of 5 stars

7. Woodlands

Established in ‘69 and located near Sevenoaks, Woodlands welcomes gardeners of all ages and experiences to talk to their friendly and knowledgeable staff (even if you’re just browsing). 

Address: Ash Ln, Ash, West Kingsdown, Sevenoaks TN15 7EG Map
Website: https://www.woodlandsgc.co.uk/
Phone: 01474 852788
Google Review Score: 4.6 out of 5 stars

Bonus

8. Chartwell

Winston and Clementine Churchill’s family home for 40 years, Chartwell is one of the most stunning historical locations cared for by our National Trust.

The garden at Chartwell is quite remarkable and “as varied as it is beautiful all year round”. From Lady Churchill’s Rose Garden to the ‘Walled Garden’ dating from the mid-20’s, there’s no better place for a lazy afternoon’s stroll, steeped in history.

There is also a small shop at Chartwell with both familiar National Trust goodies including plants, local products and souvenirs. Not quite a garden centre we know, but home to plenty of inspiration for your home even if your garden(s) might be considerably smaller. 

Address: Mapleton Rd, Westerham TN16 1PS Map
Website: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/kent/chartwell
Phone: 01732 868381
Google Review Score: 4.7 out of 5 stars

Maintaining a lush and healthy lawn can be a challenging task, especially when faced with unwanted invaders such as moss.

Moss growth is a common problem that plagues many lawns, and it can be difficult to control without proper knowledge and care. In this article, we will explore the topic of moss on lawns and provide answers to some frequently asked questions.

What is Moss and Why Does it Grow on Lawns?

Moss is a type of non-flowering plant that grows in damp and shady areas. It thrives in areas with poor drainage, compacted soil, and low fertility. When it comes to lawns, moss growth is often a sign of underlying issues that need to be addressed. The main issues are excessive thatch and shade.

How to Kill Lawn Moss

There are no moss killers that can be used on lawns, but we do have control, normally in the form of iron, either in solid form with a lawn sand or liquid form sprayed onto a lawn. The liquid form gets to more of the moss and so usually is more effective. However either solid or liquid iron will only kill what it touches, there is no system in moss for the iron to work through like there is in say a weed plant. This means that once a control (iron) has been applied it is a good idea to physically remove the moss by raking or scarifying it out.

Applying a moss control when it is moist or there is little rain is a good idea as it soaks through to areas of thick moss that you wouldn’t otherwise be able to touch without raking first.

Another option is to apply a moss control product that contains iron sulphate or potassium salts. These products can be applied in either granular or liquid form and work by dehydrating and killing the moss.

It is important to note that moss control products should be used sparingly and according to the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid damage to surrounding vegetation.

Can You Kill Lawn Moss in Winter?

The best time to attack moss is when it is actively growing – in the UK that is often from autumn through to spring. So winter is an ideal time to complete moss control. Applications of iron over winter will also harden off the grass sward, making the cell walls stronger and therefore more resistant to disease. Another advantage!

As winter approaches and the days shorten so do the chances of Fusarium and snow mould rise. Fusarium and its close sister, snow mould, can cause unsightly patches of dead grass and prevent new growth from emerging. In this article, we will answer some common questions about these fungal diseases and provide tips on how to prevent and treat them.

What are Fusarium and Snow Mould?

Fusarium and snow mould are fungal diseases that can occur in cool, wet conditions. As the snow melts, it creates moist conditions that are ideal for the growth of snow mould. Fusarium is prevalent when you have foggy or misty weather along with short daylight hours. These diseases are extremely weather dependant so their appearance will be linked to this.

Can Fusarium or Snow Mould Kill Grass?

Fusarium and snow mould create a cobweb type mould on the lawn which quickly turns a mush. Unlike Red Thread, Fusarium actually kills the affected area and so will need reseeding in the spring.

What Causes Fusarium and Snow Mould on Grass?

Snow mould occurs when snow accumulates on lawns for extended periods. The moist conditions created by the snow provide a perfect environment for the growth of snow mould. Other factors that can contribute to the development of Fusarium include excessive thatch build up, poor soil drainage, and compacted soil. As with all fungi, it is often the way that the fungal spores are ever present just waiting for the right host and weather conditions to flourish.

Preventing and Treating Fusarium and Snow Mould

Preventing is the best course of action, and there are several steps homeowners can take to reduce the risk of these fungal diseases. These include:

• Mowing the lawn with a sharp blade to prevent tearing of the leaf blade which can allow infection into the grass plant.
• Raking up leaves and other debris before the first winter to reduce leaf litter.
• Avoiding the overuse of nitrogen-rich fertilisers in the autumn, as this can encourage grass growth and make it more susceptible to Fusarium.
• Improving soil drainage by aerating the lawn in the autumn.

If Fusarium has already developed, there are several treatment options available. These include:

• Raking the affected areas helps dry out the grass and promote new growth. But be careful that you don’t unwittingly spread the spores. Sometimes it’s better to leave well alone until spring.
• Applying a fungicide to prevent further spread of the disease.
• Reseeding or returfing dead patches of grass if necessary.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Fusarium and snow mould are common problems that can affect lawns, however, you can take steps to prevent them, such as reducing thatch build up and improving soil drainage. If Fusarium has already developed and is not severe, it is best to renovate when temperatures warm in the spring. If it is severe, seek the help of an expert who may recommend fungicide.

Toadstools are a common sight in many lawns, but they can be a cause of concern for homeowners. These fungi can grow quickly and spread rapidly, leading to unsightly patches on your lawn. In this article, we will provide you with some important information about toadstools, including whether they are poisonous, harmful to dogs, and where they typically grow.

What are Toadstools?

Toadstools are a type of mushroom that grows on the soil’s surface and can be found in many lawns. They typically have a cap or cap-like structure that is supported by a stem. Toadstools can vary in size, shape, and colour, but they are generally recognised by their umbrella-like cap and stem.

Are Toadstools Poisonous?

Toadstools can be poisonous, so it is essential to exercise caution if you come across them on your lawn. Some species of toadstools contain toxins that can cause severe illness or even death if ingested. However, many toadstools are not poisonous and are harmless if touched or handled.

Toadstools are the fruiting bodies of fungi present in the soil. They are natural and harmless to your lawn and are often a sign of a healthy lawn. Using gloves to pick the toadstools off the lawn is the best way to remove them if you find them unsightly but usually, you will find that they disappear as quickly as they appeared and often as soon as the weather changes (dries out).

Are Toadstools Poisonous to Dogs?

Yes, some toadstools can be poisonous to dogs. Dogs are naturally curious and may be tempted to eat or play with toadstools, especially if they are growing in your lawn. If you suspect that your dog has ingested a toadstool, it is important to seek veterinary attention immediately. Some of the symptoms of toadstool poisoning in dogs can include vomiting, diarrhoea, lethargy, and even seizures.

Where do Toadstools Grow?

Toadstools can grow in a wide range of conditions, but they typically prefer moist environments and warm temperatures. They often grow in lawns that are well-watered, have high levels of organic matter, and receive ample sunlight. Toadstools can also grow in shaded areas, such as under trees or bushes, where the soil is damp and cool.

To prevent toadstools from growing in your lawn, it is essential to maintain a healthy and well-draining soil and avoid over-watering your lawn. Regular mowing and aeration can also help to prevent the growth of toadstools and other fungi.

Conclusion

Toadstools can be a common problem for homeowners, but they are generally not a cause for concern. While some toadstools can be poisonous, many are harmless and can be left alone. If you have small children or pets that may come into contact with toadstools, it is essential to reduce them from your lawn as soon as possible. By maintaining a healthy and well-draining soil, you can help prevent the growth of toadstools and keep your lawn looking beautiful.