Johnsons of Whixley donates plants to Harrogate Flower Show garden

Jo Manfredi-Hamer Garden Design has generously donated a garden border, originally designed for the Harrogate Flower Show, to the esteemed charity Leeds Mind.

The border, valued at over £1,500, will feature plants donated by an Accredited Supplier, Johnsons of Whixley. The plants, including Taxus, Prunus lusitanica, Malus Evereste, Viburnum tinus, Hebe ‘Green Globe’, Heathers, Choisya ‘Sundance’, Heuchera, Tiarella, and others, will find a new home in the Leeds Mind Garden at Clarence House in Horsforth.

The 3.6m x 1.2m design includes a wired hedgehog by the renowned sculptor Emma Stothard, and a red willow-weaved fox. The garden aims to promote the message that everyone can make a positive impact on the environment by reducing pollution and nourishing insects in urban areas. Moreover, it emphasises the mental health benefits of a garden.

Gemma Community Fundraiser at Leeds Mind said:

"We are so grateful for the donation of plants to give some TLC to our office garden. It makes such a difference to be able to offer clients and partners a welcoming space, as the connection between green spaces and well-being is well-evidenced. A huge thank you from us to Jo and Johnsons of Whixley."

Jo Manfredi-Hamer said:

"It’s been a tough few years for the garden at Leeds Mind because the pandemic meant the staff and volunteers couldn’t get in to give it the attention it needed. So, it’s great to be donating the gorgeous plants from Johnsons to them. I know they are delighted with the donation. To be able to highlight ways in which plants can help environmental issues at the same time is the icing on the cake."

Eleanor Richardson, Marketing Manager at Johnsons of Whixley said:

"We are pleased to have sponsored Jo’s latest design at the Harrogate Flower Show and that we are able to donate the plants after the show to Leeds Mind."

Eleanor continued:

"Johnsons have recently invested time in mental health training for all staff and now has two mental health first aiders. As a local company, we are acutely aware of the work done by the charity Mind, and the network of local Minds, so it’s great to offer our support to Leeds Mind via a plant donation which will have a positive impact on the office grounds for staff and visitors to enjoy."