Whether you’re  planning some outdoor improvements or hunting for showy blooms, our virtual garden centre has all your projects covered. Connecting with nature is the perfect way to shake off those winter blues, and we have some fabulous plants to show you, as well as outdoor furniture and more to help you create the perfect oasis of calm, peace and wellbeing. Leaf on for some ideas!

Glorious blooms 

Gardens and gardening make us feel better, and there’s nothing quite as pleasing as admiring your favourite plants as they blossom in their full vitality. A graceful, tropical-looking option, we’re already swooning at this Agapanthus ‘Sea Breeze’ trio from Thompson & Morgan. With marvellous blue flowers growing in clusters on stems, they’ll bloom into white as they grow throughout the summer.

Native to South Africa, these exotic Agapanthus love a sunny spot, flowering from June through to September. They’re available through Advanced Order, so you can snap up a bunch now and receive them in early June, ready to plant.

After fragrance as well as beauty? Don’t miss out on the Nicotiana Cuba Garden Ready Mix from Plants2Gardens. These quick-growing tobacco plants bloom at the start of June with incredible star-like flowers that give off a delightful perfume. Just plant them at the front or back of a border, and enjoy the sweetly fragrant experience on calm days and especially in the evenings.

Looking beyond summer, we’re casting a gardener’s gaze on these Festuca Sunrise from Plants2Gardens. This is a wonderful compact grass that grows into a mound of blue-green arching foliage, then in summer, deep orange-flowering stems rise above the leaves, moving beautifully in the breeze.

As autumn arrives, the ends of the leaves turn to a warm shade of copper like a sunrise in your garden. An exceptional choice for structure and year-round colour, they’ll brighten even the coldest of winter days. ‘Sunrise’ looks particularly attractive planted in groups, or on its own in an architectural pot for a contemporary patio feature.

Elevating your space 

How great is it when we manage to snatch some downtime outside? Amidst the hustle and bustle of daily life, a well thought out garden offers relief, a place to meditate or socialise. So why not do it in style and comfort? Whether you’re catching up with friends or whistling away Sundays in the sun, put your feet up with this Acapulco Chair from Bundleberry by Amanda Holden.

As dusk falls, imagine telling stories with your dearest around a wood-burning Firepit from Innovators. Add some Mandala Floor Cushions to the mix, and you’ve got yourself all the cosiness of camping, just without the tent part! Whether you’re enjoying a glass of wine or roasting marshmallows with the kids, a firepit is a great way to maximise your garden’s use throughout the year.

So, now that your garden is looking gorgeous, what’s left to add? It may be beautiful lighting to accentuate your favourite tree, or some final touches by way of decor, perhaps an LED Buddha Head, or a stunning water feature from Garden Reflections. Whatever you’re looking for, you can find a whole host of options in our Garden Room.

All is well outdoors 

It’s spring and we’re feeling good in the sunshine, but how about our plants? They need TLC just as much as we do, and luckily our plant care range can help. From Peat-free Compost and Cell Propagators to Hand Tool sets and Richard Jackson’s premium formulas (including Flower Power and Root Booster), we have everything you need to nurture your plants.

Even if you things are getting out of control in the garden, or you’re working in a smaller space, there are always ways to expand your green-fingered potential. Take, for example, this Premium 4 Tier Greenhouse from Garden Gear, which is so easy to construct with sturdy, coated steel frames and a protector. Get ready to enjoy home-grown vegetables and the stunning plants you’ve always wanted!

After a good start to the growing season, we’re tuning up our tools, digging out the gloves and getting back in the dirt! How about you?

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We’re proud to be partnering with Greenfingers Charity to support this important cause on Garden Re-Leaf Day at QVC. For each item purchased across all of our gardening shows this Sunday, our vendors will donate £1.50 to Greenfingers. Was there ever a better reason to get behind gardening?

Greenfingers Charity 

For life-limited children and their families, spending time outside has many benefits. Whether it’s a place to spend family time together or a spot for solitary, peaceful reflection, it can make a huge difference. Spending time outdoors, away from the bedside, can offer children and families under considerable stress a vital opportunity to enjoy the fresh air and engage with the natural environment.

Established in 1999, Greenfingers Charity is now celebrating 23 years of creating specially-designed, stimulating garden spaces. They’ve created over 60 gardens in children’s hospices across the UK, and Garden Re-Leaf Day has raised a whopping total of £731,000, of which QVC raised £282, 000.

Get involved 

Like so many other charities, Greenfingers Charity faces an uncertain future due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Despite this, their hospice waiting list grows longer, as the therapeutic benefits of spending time outside, close to nature, are recognised by the nation.

Greenfingers Charity needs your support today more than ever. Some of their projects planned for 2020 and 2021 were delayed due to the pandemic, but they have exciting plans to build five more gardens in 2022. This year, they’re planning to build The Nook (pictured below), as part of East Anglia Children’s Hospices.

If you’d like to donate or get involved, please visit the Greenfingers Charity website. Don’t forget to tune in this Sunday too for all of our gardening shows on Garden Re-Leaf Day. All those taking part will help Greenfingers Charity to ensure thousands more life-limited children and their families who spend time in hospices across the UK can benefit from magical and inspiring outdoor spaces, in 2022 and beyond.

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From stylish furniture to lighting and decor, we have a host of great outdoor products to elevate your very own corner of the planet. Take a look at these two gardens from of our star guests, Lucy Piper and Lorna Ko. As you can see, they’re feeling the spring vibes.

Lucy Piper 

Lorna Ko

Amazing, right? If you’re looking for a little inspiration, you’ve come to the right place!

Transform your space 

As spring and summer bring more sunshine and daylight, it’s time to make our gardens more livable. No garden is complete without a relaxation area or two, so a good place to start is outdoor furniture. After all, why should the style and comfort enjoyed indoors stop the minute you step outside?

For a perfect way to unwind, look no further than (and sink right into) this Holly Folding Cocoon Egg Chair from Innovators.

The gentle sway of the egg chair allows you to truly chill out after hours on your feet, while the elegant design lends a chic, contemporary aesthetic to any space. Or why not catch some rays in the versatile, king-sized Valencia lounger? Or the new, super stylish and comfy Hanoi Swivel Cocoon Chair?

Inviting guests round? This faux bamboo two-seater sofa is ideal for enjoying a perfect afternoon with friends, especially after some al fresco dining. Our bellies are already rumbling at the idea of burgers, chicken or delicious vegetables, grilled to perfection on Kalorik’s brilliant Electric Barbecue, without the need for charcoal or gas!

Whether you’re spending quality time with family or entertaining friends, a barbecue is a fantastic way to bring everyone together, as is an Outdoor Gas Firepit Table. Nothing beats the cosiness of a fire, especially with a clean-burning gas flame! After that, it’s all about the finishing touches to bring your space together. Think charming garden decor, vibrant wall art or a faux bamboo coffee table. We love this large rattan lantern from Luxform, featuring a rope handle and a solar-powered LED light inside.

Ideal for creating a gorgeous ambience, this clever lantern charges by sunlight, making it an effortless addition. Luxform bring us amazing outdoor lighting, with everything from wall lights and stake lights to classical-style, solar-powered lamp posts with planters. Even when the sun goes down, you can enjoy your garden in style.

New season, new life 

By now you may have some ideas blossoming (tell us about them!) and so too the natural world around us is beginning to burst into life. After a long winter, gardeners and growers are welcoming the first signs of spring. March is the perfect time to start sowing seeds, preparing flower borders and ordering plants early. Take a look at this stunning collection of 30 Begonia Non-Stop Joy plants from Thompson & Morgan, complete with Incredibloom Fertiliser.

Whether you’re tidying up borders, cleaning out your greenhouse or maintaining fences or gates, we have everything you need to get your green-fingered jobs ticked off. Gardening expert, Richard Jackson, has created a range of specially formulated products, including plants and grass foods, weed killers and more. From Slug & Snail Control to nutritious Flower Power, it’s never been easier to get your outdoor space looking its best year-round. Don’t forget about wildlife either. Winter may be over, but we can still help the birds fly into spring full-bellied!

As we ready ourselves for the wonderful seasons ahead, remember to check your tools and sharpen your gardening arsenal to make the grafting part easy. Visit our designated Tool Shed, or stock up on maintenance must-haves for a fabulous spring garden. So, let’s get growing. All the best with your garden refresh. What an uplifting, hopeful time of year!

The post Create a fabulous spring garden appeared first on Stories.

Warmer weather coming, we’ve put together a garden wish list to help launch you into the season. From outdoor furniture and centrepieces to plants and essential tools, here are some great ways to ensure you’re ready.

Enjoying your garden 

First and foremost, well-designed gardens makes us feel good! They help us connect with nature and the people we love.

Whether you’re taking a breath or enjoying dinner al fresco with family, create a set-up that passes all your vibe checks at our virtual Garden Room. You’ll find stylish decor and lighting, furniture and more. Take, for example, this Folding Double Cocoon Chair from Innovators. This is how we like to bask in the sun!

The gentle sway of the egg chair and the sprung attachments will allow you to truly relax after a few hours on your feet. Or why not start the day in the egg chair with breakfast? Elegantly designed in high-grade aluminium and steel with faux rattan ropework, it boasts plush, removable deep-filled cushions and is designed to sit two people side by side.

Or how about this stunning firepit? Nothing beats that cosy feeling of a real fire, but if you’ve never fancied the hassle of a bonfire, this gas fire pit from Innovators is your answer!

Offering all the beauty of a fire in a clean-burning gas flame, it provides warm, gentle light and a fabulous centrepiece for any of your outdoor events. With its chic, streamlined bowl design, this fire pit is the modern way to enjoy a fire – just light it up and enjoy!

Finding your flowers

No garden is complete without the vibrant colours of spring and summer blooms. Planning ahead is key, but luckily here at QVC we have an abundant selection. Whether you’re hunting for hardy perennials or show-stopping annuals, discover your new favourite variety at our online nursery. Here are just a couple of our darlings!

Check out these Majestic Mixed Begonias from Thompson & Morgan. Offering you 30 fabulous plug plants, this selection will adorn your garden with a flourish of pinks, reds, oranges and yellows.

Better yet, this collection is available on Advanced Order. That means you can bag your begonias early and they’ll be shipped to you in June, all ready to plant.

Or how about these gorgeous geraniums from Precious Plants? Perfect for popping into beds, borders, pots and hanging baskets, they’ll reward you cheer and amazing colour.

They love Mediterranean conditions (like us!) so there’s no need to worry if you forget to water them for a while. Their blooms are shatter-proof too, so whatever the English weather throws at them, they’ll perform well.

Your green-fingered arsenal

The best way to prepare? Getting your space in tip-top shape! From powerful lawnmowers and hoses to handy shovels and efficient weedkiller, take the hard work out of your maintenance tasks with our reliable range of plant care and gardening tools.

Some tools can even do it all! Like this versatile four-in-one gardening tool from Yard Force. It can be used as a soil scarifier, reciprocating saw, grass shears and hedge trimmer with its adjustable cutting heads, plus it features a cordless design and a telescopic tube.

There’s no need for a helping hand with this ultimate gardening companion. It’s a do-it-all assistant, easy to use so you can keep your garden prim and proper.

Happy gardening

We hope this blog might’ve given you a few ideas. Don’t forget to visit our Garden & Leisure page for all things green and growing, but in the meantime – before we see those blooms and hear the bird songs – good luck with your planning!

The post Spring is almost in our gardens! appeared first on Stories.

From tidying and pruning to maintenance and repairs, here are some ideas to get you started through January and February. With less going on, it’s a great opportunity to take stock and plan for the gardening months ahead. As they say, new year, new garden!

Tidying up

What better way to start than with a seasonal tidy up? A deep clean will lay the foundations for warmer days ahead, and it’s a great outdoor workout too! If sweeping the lawn or clearing wind-blown debris is on the to-do list, this Original Garden Broom will help you get the job done.

Peak leaf season may be over, but many trees hang onto their dead leaves well into the winter season. This sturdy broom can be used as a rake, plus it’s made from the by-products of coconuts, so it won’t absorb water and get stodgy or sticky when used in wet conditions.

After a bout of heavy rain or strong wind, keep an eye out for those soggy leaves or collapsed stems of perennials. They can sometimes block the light and air for other plants!

And what to do with the leaves? Before you throw them away, remember they make for excellent compost or mulch if shredded. This Electric Impact Shredder from Webb boasts a powerful 2500W motor and a high-performance cutting system that shreds grass clippings, hedge trimmings, leaves and even branches. Whether you’re reducing waste or creating compost, this lightweight shredder will make your gardening tasks a breeze.

Sprucing up your outdoors

Winter has a way of covering our gardens in so much sludge and slime! That’s why we absolutely love this Crikey Mikey 5L Hard Surface Cleaner with Pressure Sprayer from Wolf. It’s super-easy to use and perfect for cleaning walls, paving, brickwork or even statues.

This Wolf cleaning kit offers quick, effective removal of algae, mould and lichen, and it even comes complete with protective gloves and safety glasses, so you can get stuck in the moment you receive your box. Simply pump and prime, then get rid of the slime! When your space is shining with life, you’ll thank Crikey Mikey!

Tools of the trade 

From late January through to February, things slowly but surely start to come alive in the garden. Before the first reawakenings of spring, it’s a good idea to stocktake and make sure you have all the tools you need for the gardening season ahead.

If the shed is looking a little empty, why not stock up with some essentials? Grumpy Gardener’s Wonder Shovel and Dirt Buddy duo will make tending to your patch so much simpler and enjoyable. These are two incredibly versatile tools that can be used for a variety of tasks, from digging, breaking up roots or weeding with the Wonder Shovel, to re-potting and planting bulbs with the Dirt Buddy.

Don’t forget, for keeping the garden in check (or the home!) our dedicated online Tool Shed has a wide range of DIY equipment, essential tools and security solutions.

Let gardening season begin

A new year calls for new designs, dreams and garden goals. So, for all things green and growing, be sure to visit our virtual garden centre. 

Feels good to breathe the fresh air, doesn’t it?

The post Get ahead with gardening this winter appeared first on Stories.

With the big day fast approaching, we’ve rounded up some of our favourite leading lights. We’re drawn to these options like moths to a flame, but we hope they might inspire you too, bringing a touch of moonlit magic to all your get-togethers.

Stellar glow 

How celestial are these curtain lights from Luxform? We almost feel like singing, O Holy Night! Made from a transparent material, they’ll adorn your space in an unobtrusive way, twinkling on high for an enchanting effect.

Why not adorn a gazebo, or brighten a little one’s bedroom during the winter? You can use these indoors or outdoors, plus they’re battery operated and super easy to set up. The string-lights even come with a remote control for the eight different light modes.

Lights with wings

You’ve transformed your garden into an oasis, but now you want to show it off to the whole family for Christmas. For a charming finishing touch, these two feathered friends from Luxform are a fabulous choice. Beacons with beaks!

The LED bird lights will look wonderful used as stake lights on the lawn, or as guiding lights to draw the eye to a standout plant or a focal-point tree. The stakes are detachable too, so you can place these birds  atop a table, or line them up on garden steps. They only thing these birds can’t do is sing!

That festive feeling

We feel Christmas cheer should extend outside (all the way out), and lights are the perfect way to create a merry atmosphere. We just couldn’t resist these:

Reindeer option:

Dasher, Dancer, Prancer … where are the others? Either way, these stake lights will look fabulous as you welcome family through the front door or lead them to the garden, saying “Oh deer, Christmas is here!”

Star option:

Go starry-eyed for this stylish alternative. Whether you’re hosting a cheese and wine night for friends, or you’d simply like to see some twinkle in the back yard, this gorgeous design will add a sprinkle of glitz and sparkle.

Tender is the trellis

For a statement display, something really transformative that will create impact outside, feast your eyes on this wow-worthy piece. The Pre-lit Holly Trellis from Garden Reflections has festive leaves and berries, plus the gentle glow from the LED lights is a quick way to turn your garden or balcony into a winter wonderland.

Coming home for Christmas

Nothing says “welcome ” like a festive wreath, especially when it’s lit up fabulously. Designed for the outdoors with built-in battery-powered lights for a fuss-free setup, this durable wreath from Garden Reflections is ready and raring to get your Christmas celebrations off to a flyer! Any room in the inn?

And to all a good night

Let there be lots of light this Christmas, and long may it shine throughout the winter. For more inspiration and illumination, be sure to check out the rest of our outdoor lighting range and our virtual garden centre. There’s plenty more twinkling there, long after the sun sets.

Have a bright one on us!

The post Garden lighting for a brighter winter and Christmas appeared first on Stories.

Whether you’ve enough space to build your own bonfire, the budget to make things go with a bang by creating your own fireworks extravaganza, or you have a great view of the local display from your back garden, celebrating the 5th November at home is a superb way to make the most of your outdoor space in autumn.

The bonfire

Taking centre stage on any 5th November is the bonfire. Not only is it traditional (burning a Guy is optional) but it creates all the heat and light your guests will need outside, as well as a focal point for the entire evening. People will automatically gather around it, they’ll chat and sit and watch the flames dance and the sparks fly. Magical.

There are a few things to remember – build your fire at least 6ft away from trees, bushes and overhanging branches, and away from furniture, fencing and buildings. Remember the wind can carry flames and sparks much further. Don’t forget to allow space for your guests too, there’s no point having a bonfire in your back garden if you can’t get outside to enjoy the warmth.

When you’ve chosen your space, clear the area of dried leaves etc. to prevent the fire from spreading. Then build a 3m – 4m circle using large stones or bricks, which will surround your bonfire.

Use what dry garden waste you can find – it’s a great way of getting your outside space cleared for the winter. Start with tinder (twigs, dried leaves, bark, newspaper, etc) at the bottom. It’s easy to light and start the fire but burns out quickly. Then lay the kindling (larger sticks and pieces of bark) across the tinder in a cross square. Kindling burns easily when it comes into contact with lit tinder but is hard to light on its own. Then, finally lay the Fuel (logs) in a cross square on top of the kindling. If you haven’t been chopping down trees in your garden, then you can buy fire logs to add to your bonfire.

Alternatively, if you’re unsure about building a bonfire in your garden, the space is too small or you don’t want to spend time building one, invest in a firepit. They’re smaller, self contained and won’t do as much damage to your lawn.

Wildlife tip: To ensure as few wild animals as possible venture in to explore your bonfire before it’s lit, build it on the day. It’s a great way to get the kids involved and a great excuse to get your party started early!

The fireworks

Sparklers are a must-have for any age. Bonfire Night is never really complete without them and they’re so much fun to ‘draw’ in the air with. Just remember the rules: wear gloves and hold them at arm’s length, then, when they fizzle out, drop them into a bucket of water.

If you’ve the room in your garden for a fireworks display, then go for it! Always follow the instructions on the packaging and make sure your guests stay well back at all times. Keep fireworks stored in a box and only light one at a time with a taper at arm’s length.

The feast

Building your bonfire on the day means you can get the kids involved in the build mid-afternoon and keep everyone fuelled for the occasion with a delicious homemade pumpkin soup – see the recipe in our Halloween blog here. Serve in big mugs, and for dipping, cut a crunchy baguette into long diagonal slices, top with grated cheese and a sprinkling of chilli flakes, then toast to make large croutons, perfect for outside eating.

Traditional bonfire night fayre – toffee apples and toasted marshmallows – always goes down a treat, as do baked-on-the-bonfire jacket potatoes – delish. But what about keeping everyone fed and watered while you wait for your jackets to cook?

A bonfire night barbeque is the solution. Cook up tasty hot dogs topped with mustard and crunchy onions, or classic cheese burgers in soft brioche buns, plus tonnes of veggie kebabs coated in a delicious honey and mustard glaze (use metal skewers to prevent them from burning!). Whatever your summer barbeque favourite is, there’s no reason not to have it on 5th November too.

Mulled wine is the perfect tipple for outdoor events in the colder months. Cook it and serve it up inside, and watch how the sights, sounds and savoury smells from the barbeque and bonfire lure your guests back outside again! For non-drinkers, a luxurious hot chocolate topped with mini marshmallows is the perfect warming indulgence on a cold autumn evening.

The lighting

Let there be light and lots of it at your Guy Fawkes garden party! Festoon and fairy lights are the order of the evening hanging from branches (away from the bonfire and barbeque, of course) around fence posts, doorways, pergolas and gazebos. Low energy, high impact lighting will create atmosphere and make your guests feel like there’s nowhere else to be but in your back garden. Dress the table with candles in hurricane jars, and scatter LED tealights around to create a gorgeous centrepiece that people will flock to.

Top tip: have blankets for knees and plenty of cushions to sit on to keep everyone as toasty as possible as they tuck into your tantalising feast! Another way of making your autumn feast feel more luxuriant is to use a versatile indoor/outdoor rug. Made of hardwearing materials like polypropylene and boasting stylish patterns, these rugs can set your dining area off to perfection and protect your lawn as well!

The pets

Along with looking out for the wildlife in your garden, there are the pets inside your home that might need a little TLC on Bonfire Night too. Keeping curtains closed to muffle sound and hiding flashes of light is a quick and easy way to help them feel less scared. If you can leave the TV or radio on to distract them with noise, that is also worth trying. Making a doggie den is another way to help your little fluff ball feel more at home. If they already have a bed, add an extra blanket, make sure their favourite soft toy is in there too, and leave a chew toy and a bowl of water to keep them distracted and hydrated if they don’t want to move. If your pet doesn’t have their own bed, create one from a large cardboard box, fill it with cushions and blankets to make them feel all enclosed and safe, and if you can stay with them for hugs, then all the better!

Safety

There is lots of further information and safety tips for bonfires, sparklers and fireworks to be found on the London Fire Brigade website.

For more garden inspiration, check out our Garden department now.

The post Host your own Guy Fawkes Garden party! appeared first on Stories.

Here are our tips on making the most of your homegrown pumpkins – from growing seedlings to cooking soup!

Growing your pumpkins

Firstly, pumpkins are pretty easy to grow, though they do need space so the vines can sprawl along the ground. Some vines can get to as long as 6m (19ft), though around 3m (9ft) should be enough space for the average variety. According to Thompson & Morgan, in cooler climates pumpkin seeds can be sown in April and May but should be kept inside until all risk of frost has passed. Plant two seeds in small 7cm pots and thin out the weaker plants later on.

When daily temperatures average around 18C and above, and your seedlings are big enough, plant them outside at 3m (9ft) intervals in full sun. As the vines send out their tendrils, you’ll begin to see more and more leaves appear, then flowers will bloom and that’s where you’ll find your pumpkins start to bud. Pumpkins like to be warm and relish the sun, so remove any leaves that are throwing shade. Pumpkins can also be prone to rot if left to sit on damp earth, so raise them off the ground and rest them on seed trays, boards or thick cardboard.

If you can create a mound of earth to grow your pumpkins on, this will help with drainage and warming the soil. Make sure you water your plants regularly as pumpkins are very thirsty, and leave it as close to Halloween as possible to harvest them. This will ensure that the skins are nice and firm and easier to carve. If Halloween comes around before your pumpkins are properly ripened, it’s worth harvesting them a couple of weeks early and bringing them inside to ripen properly. Then it’s time to carve!

Carving your Jack ‘O Lantern

Once you’ve selected your perfect pumpkin, it’s best to start by drawing out your design on the outside of it. If you’re unsure where to start, try sketching out your Jack O’ Lantern’s face on paper first and transfer it to your pumpkin when you’re happy with the design.

The first place to start is at the top by cutting out the lid. Most of the inside of a pumpkin is hollow so it’s easy to start cutting. Use a sharp knife and make the first cut to zig zag around the stalk at the top. Keep the knife at an angle in towards the centre of the pumpkin so that the lip won’t fall inside when you’ve finished cutting. When you have completed the lid, pull the stalk and the lid should come straight out. Make sure you make the hole at the top big enough to get your hands inside to carve the pumpkin out.

Inside you will see the fibrous pulp and the seeds, these can be pulled out by hand initially and then you can use spoons, or an ice cream scoop to remove the stubborn bits! Remember to set the seeds aside, you’ll need them for planting so you can grow next year’s crop and start the cycle again. You can also roast some of the seeds with olive oil to make a tasty addition to salads and snacks.

If you’re looking to make a pie or soup from your pumpkin, then continue to scrape away at the inside until you have reduced the sides down by about half or around 2cm (<1″) thick. See below for the full recipes, but you will need around 680g (24oz) of pureed pumpkin for a pie and around 450g (1lb) for soup, to create 4-6 servings.

Once the pumpkin is hollowed out and you are happy with your design, you can either free-draw it using a felt tip pen – this is a great way to get younger family members involved – or you can trace out the design from your paper using a sharp tool like a knitting needle. Then using your knife, start cutting out your Jack ‘O Lantern.

Go slowly and use simple straight cuts at first, keeping the knife perpendicular to the pumpkin. Once you have carved the basic eyes, mouth and other features, then you can start to shape the holes that are left and perfect your face.

Add two or three tealights inside your pumpkin, turn out the lights and watch it glow!

Here are a few QVC-made Jacks for inspiration!

Making a delicious autumnal feast

Pumpkin pie

Although traditionally served at Thanksgiving dinner, its creamy filling and tasty pastry base make it a delicious end to any meal.

Ingredients:

For the shortcrust pastry base:

• (100g) 4oz butter
• (200g) 8oz self raising flour
• 1 – 2 tbsp cold water to bind

For the filling:

• 680g (24oz) pumpkin puree
• 100g (4oz) brown sugar
• 3 eggs
• 300ml (10fl oz) single cream
• 1 1/4 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• Pinch of salt

For the garnish:

• 175ml (6fl oz) sour cream
• 125ml (4fl oz) whipped cream
• 2 tbsp sugar
• Crumbled walnuts to garnish

Method:

Making the shortcrust pastry base:

• Preheat the oven to gas mark 5 / 190C
• Sift the flour into a mixing bowl then cut the butter into small pieces before adding to the bowl
• Cover the butter with the flour and then rub the mixture between your thumb and fingers to create bread crumbs
• Add the water and mix in with a butter knife, then gather all the dough together with your hands making sure you pick up any residue in the bowl
• Flour your worktop or board and knead the pastry into a ball
• Then roll out your dough to about 4cm – 5cm larger than your pie tin turning the dough a quarter turn after each roll
• Line your pie dish with the pastry and fill with baking beans
• Cook your pastry base for 15 minutes, remove the beads and cook for a further 5 minutes

Making the filling:

• Combine the sugar, salt and spices in a small mixing bowl
• Blend the pumpkin puree and eggs well, in a mixer
• Gradually add the sugar and spice mixture and the cream and blend everything together until smooth
• Pour the mixture into your pie base
• Place the tin into the oven and bake for 45 – 50 minutes or until small knife comes out clean
• Serve either hot or cold

For the garnish:

• Whip the sour cream, whipped cream and sugar together until light and fluffy
• Add a dollop to each pie serving and sprinkle with crushed walnuts

Pumpkin soup:

For a warming, colourful lunch option or tasty starter, serve this hearty pumpkin soup in small hollowed out pumpkins and top with crunchy croutons or chunks of rustic bread!

Ingredients:

• 30g (1oz) of butter / 2 tbsp olive oil
• 450g (16oz ) pumpkin puree
• 2 pints chicken stock – use vegetable stock for a vegetarian version
• 25ml (8fl oz) double cream
• 2 small onions
• 1 stalk celery
• 1/2 tsp tabasco sauce or 1/2 tsp – chilli flakes
• 1 tsp paprika
• Pinch of salt

Method:

• In a large saucepan melt the butter / warm the oil over a moderate heat
• Add the onion and the pumpkin and cook, stirring occasionally for 5 – 6 minutes or until the onion are soft and transparent
• Gradually stir in the chicken stock, salt, celery, and spices
• Bring the mixture to the boil, stirring constantly
• Then cover the pan and simmer for 30 – 35 minutes or until the pumpkin and celery is very tender
• Pour the mixture into a blender and blend until smooth
• Stir in the cream and return to the saucepan
• Cook the soup on a moderately high heat until piping hot but not boiling and serve immediately

Enjoy!

For more gardening inspiration, check out our Garden & Leisure department.

If full-blown fancy dress is just not your thing, why not add a little Halloween-inspired twist to your look with these great fashion designs from Frank Usher? The embellished floral skull T-shirt will look great under your favourite leather biker jacket, while the embellished skull jersey top is the perfect layer for welcoming those cheeky Trick-or-Treaters to your door!

Butler & Wilson are your go-to brand for Halloween accessories, check out their batwing enamel earrings, skull motorbike brooch, enamel skull necklace and crystal and pearl spider ring for just the right amount of spooky sparkle!

And why not complement your new pumpkin decor with this beautiful ceramic embossed candle with holder from Homeworx by Harry Slatkin. Finally, if you want to add some Halloween nonsense to your home Pacman’s ghosts will deliver!

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Here is our list of must-do jobs for your September garden.

Savour the flavour

Harvest the last of your homegrown crops. Onions, runner beans, courgettes and potatoes, along with raspberries and apples are all ready to harvest in September and there are dozens of recipes to help you preserve them if your crop is a bumper one! Members of the bean family will freeze well and if you ensure you dry out your garlic bulbs thoroughly, they will also keep in storage. Onion marmalade is a superbly savoury-sweet treat to liven up a festive cheese board, while raspberry jam is the only filling you need for a genuine Victoria sandwich. If you’ve never tried courgette fritters or potato and courgette pancakes, now’s your chance, they’re utterly delicious.

Prep for a colourful spring

Plant spring-flowering bulbs such as daffodils and crocuses, as well as bedding plants, like pansies now and prep your garden for a full-on floral display when winter starts to wane. There is also a wealth of leafy spring vegetables that you can plant in September. Spinach, lettuce, Swiss chard and kale, plus meatier veg like broccoli, carrots and cauliflower will be sure to get your mouth watering come spring.

Reap what you sow

Collect seeds from your current plants and sort them into marked containers ready for next season. Shake or scrape the pods and heads to make sure you collect every seed, store them in sealed tins or envelopes to ensure they stay dry, and keep them in a cool dark place, such as a garage, shed, or even your fridge. Hardy annual seeds can be sown now for a gorgeous display in spring, and sowing seeds in autumn often means earlier blooms than if you wait until spring to sow. Poppies, cornflower and Nigella are all great hardy annuals to sow outside this month.

Preen your green

After a summer of entertaining and spending time outdoors, it’s time to give your lawn some much needed TLC to get it back to its gorgeous self. Rake away the falling leaves, thatch and debris, aerate the grass and give it a really good feed with a suitable fertiliser for the season to ensure it grows back lush and strong next year. Trim back the edges where they have overgrown onto the patio or beds and add lawn seed to any sparse or patchy areas to ensure new growth after winter.

Get your greenhouse glowing

Take time to clear out and tidy up your greenhouse ready for the new nursery season. First open the vents and door, empty all the contents out and start from the bottom up. Clean the glass and frames of algae and dirt with warm soapy water removing and preventing growth of mould and mildew. Cleaning the windows will also ensure the most light gets inside and to your plants. Use a water-vinegar solution rather than harsh chemicals to get those panes sparkling. Remember that September can also still have some really warm days so keep on top of watering this month too!

More, more, more

Continue to deadhead the plants in your pots and containers to keep them looking fresh and encourage as many new blooms as possible until the first frosts. To increase your plant stock for next year, divide congested clumps of perennials. Gently work outwards from the crown to divide the plant using your either your hands or garden forks, depending on their size. Some plants send out plantlets so these can be teased out and replanted. As you replant or pot up, water well and mix in some compost to the soil to encourage growth. September is also a great time to propagate cuttings from your tender perennials – keep them in a frost-free environment, preferably on a windowsill inside, as their roots establish.

Nourish = flourish!

Add some compost to your soil – adding a layer now will help nourish the soil by the time spring comes around, to leave you with revitalised earth that the plants will flourish in. Autumn is also a good time to fertilise your rose bushes using a special formula to promote root growth rather than foliage. Planting roses is also good to do around the start of September, at least six weeks before the first frosts, to give the roots time to establish themselves before they go dormant over winter.

For more ideas, inspiration, plants, tools and more visit our garden department page now.

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To make the most of this plethora of natural perfumes, plant them in the places where you can be close. Window boxes, patio pots and outside your door are ideal, the aromas can travel inside your home on the gentlest of breezes. Alternatively, placing these plants around a bench allows you to surround yourself with scent, or adding them along pathways allows their fragrance to escape as you brush against them.

Summertime walks in suburban streets and strolls in the countryside are abundant with fragrance to inspire you, but there are plenty of plants that deliver beautiful aromas during the other three seasons of the year. Discover how to create a year-round festival of fragrance for your garden with our list of scented plants by month and discover the sweet-smelling plants that will add colour and fragrance to your outdoor space throughout autumn, winter, spring and summer.

Spring

Meteorological spring – March, April and May – is the time of year when our gardens, warmed by the ever-nearing sun, start to come alive and fill the air with fresh, new fragrance. What better way to enjoy getting back out there, than if you’re accompanied by the beautiful aromas of plants like Gold-edged Winter Daphne, Chocolate Vine, Sweet Peas and Clematis?

March

Gold-edged winter daphne – this shrub boasts red-purple flowers with pale centres that bloom in February and March with a sweet and spicy perfume.

Hyacinths – well known for their ability to flower early when forced, these much-loved flowers bloom naturally in March and April in a vast array of colours – lilac, pink, white, cobalt blue, cream, apricot and red – and offer a sweet lingering fragrance.

April

Native bluebells – commonly seen as a carpet of blue in ancient woodland, planting these delightful bulbs in your own outside space will ensure it comes alive with colour in April and May and also filled with their sweet, fresh fragrance.

Chocolate vine – boasting a heady aroma that reminds you of delicious Belgian chocolate, these chocolate maroon flowers appear in April to get your tastebuds tingling.

May

Mexican Orange Aztec Pearl – this easy-to-grow evergreen shrub starts blooming in May with pretty, pink-tinged buds that grow into white flowers with a rich sweet orange blossom scent.

Clematis Montana Elizabeth – one of the easier clematis to grow, this variety is May flowering and produces blooms with a sweet, vanilla-fudge fragrance.

Sweet peas – this annual climbing plant produces pink, purple and white, highly scented flowers in May with a fragrance that is reminiscent of sweet honey and citrus.

Sweetshrub Venus – this deciduous shrub boasts large white or purple flowers each May that produce an intense watermelon and strawberry fragrance.

 Summer

June, July and August are the months when we get to really enjoy our outdoor space, soaking up the sunshine and listening to the birdsong as we relish the rewards of the previous months’ hard work. Imagine reading a book, enjoying breakfast or doing a spot of weeding and feeding wrapped up in the wonderful scents of plants like Common Broom, Hidcote Lavender and night-scented Tobacco Grandiflora….

June

Peony Hermione – this double-bloom variety produces highly scented large pale pink flowers in June that proffer a scent that boasts a mix of rose and jasmine but a little bit sweeter.

Common Broom – this wiry shrub produces an abundance of brilliant yellow flowers in May and June that offer a light yet distinctive, sweet, vanilla-like fragrance.

Hidcote Lavender – this variety of evergreen shrub, produces dense spikes of tiny purple flowers from June to September over silver-green highly scented foliage. Deadheading will produce more flower spikes.

July

False Acacia – this busy tree produces pendulous racemes of pale yellow or pink flowers that bloom from May to July and boast a sweet fragrance reminiscent of orange blossom.

Tobacco plant Grandiflora – renowned for their large white trumpet-shaped flowers that bloom from July to September, with a warm, spicy aromatic that will fill the evening air with a heady fragrance.

August

Bergamot – Cambridge scarlet variety is a herbaceous perennial that will produce tall stems bearing a large number of tubular, scarlet red flowers that create a shaggy dome, flowering from June to August. The leaves are aromatic and smell of basil and mint, similar to earl grey tea.

Buddleia – known as the butterfly bush, buddleia can be seen all over the country from derelict buildings to railway lines and more unusual places. This fast-growing shrub produces long tapered panicles at the end of its branches between July and September that produce a powerful sweet honey-like fragrance.

Autumn

September, October and November are an exciting time for the garden, the transition from green to autumnal tones is swift and dramatic, but ultimately beautiful. As you’re catching the last few warm days, raking leaves and getting the last lawn-mow in, do it enveloped in the fragrant smells of plants like Salvia, Abelia, Lilac and Camellia.

September

Salvia ‘Hot Lips‘ – a bushy evergreen perennial bearing small aromatic leaves with a fruity scent, reminiscent of blackcurrants, and large open-mouthed red and white flowers that bloom from June to October.

Abyssinian Gladiolus – boasting long grassy, sword-shaped leaves and spikes of fragrant white tubular flowers with a maroon-purple blotch in the throat. On arching slender tubes these flowers add movement to borders and a sweet, fresh fragrance to the air from August to October.

Daphne Eternal Fragrance – this compact, semi-evergreen shrub produces dark green leaves and clusters of white/flushed pink highly fragrant tubular flowers that bloom with new growth. Enjoy their powerful nutmeg, honeysuckle aroma from April to October.

October

Abelia Grandiflora Confetti – this dwarf evergreen shrub is slow growing with variegated, green and white, foliage and produces lightly scented flushed pink flowers from July to October that offer a fragrance similar to lilacs. Note: the sunnier the aspect, the more flowers you will get!

Giant Hyssop Blackadder – this herbaceous perennial produces blue-black spikes packed with tiny blue flowers that bloom in September and October. Its clump of fragrant foliage offers a scent reminiscent of anise or liquorice.

Lilac Pink Perfume – an easy-to-grow deciduous shrub that has an initial flush of panicles of pale pink flowers in mid to late spring, and then intermittently until October, offering a sweet and intense lilac perfume.

November

Sweet Bay – one of the oldest cultivated plants, Bay’s deep green leaves can be clipped to create a decorative accent to patios in pots. Blooming between March and May with small yellow flowers, it’s the aromatic leaves that offer the herbal, slightly floral scent that you will enjoy.

Camellia Sparkling Burgundy – also known as Winter Blooming Camelia, this evergreen shrub has glossy, leathery dark green leaves and large showy blooms that flower from October to January, producing a light, pleasant floral fragrance.

Winter

The winter months of December, January and February are quieter times in our gardens. The local territorial robin seems to be doing most of the hard work until the first snowdrops begin to poke through the frozen ground. But if you do venture outdoors, on those crisp cool sunny days, do so surrounded by the beautiful perfume of plants like Winter Beauty Honeysuckle, American Witch Hazel and Mahonia.

December

Honeysuckle Winter Beauty – this spreading semi-evergreen shrub is a must-have for your winter garden, producing a multitude of highly fragrant creamy-white flowers with bright yellow anthers from November to March, that offer a sweet, jasmine-like fragrance.

Wintersweet – this slow-growing shrub is aptly named for its highly scented, pale yellow waxy flowers with purple centres, which appear on bare stems from December to February. Their sweet and spicy fragrance is what makes this plant a real winter garden showstopper.

January

American Witch Hazel – the Hamamelis x intermedia Pallida variety produces spidery sulphur-yellow flowers boasting a soft, sweet and spicy fragrance between January and February.

Winter Jasmine – a medium-sized deciduous shrub that produces small yellow trifoliate flowers that appear along long arching bare branches from November to March. Their light aroma is fresh and clean, like crisp winter air.

 February

Daphne bholua – also called Nepalese paper plant, this evergreen shrub boasts long, oval leathery leaves and clusters of pretty, pink and white, highly fragrant flowers that offer an intense fragrance in February and March.

Mahonia – an easy-to-grow evergreen shrub that boasts tough, spiny leaves and bright racemes or clusters of brilliant-yellow, fragrant flowers, which appear from December to February, offering a gentle fragrance reminiscent of lily of the valley.

Sweet Box – a bushy evergreen shrub with leathery leaves and small highly scented creamy-white flowers that offer a power-packed sweet honey fragrance from December to March, followed by glossy, black berries, great for wildlife.

For more ideas, inspiration, plants, tools and more visit our garden department page now.

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