When the Garden Centre Association opens the Ruxley Rose competition later this month, it will stress entries embrace creativity and consider a changing marketplace.
According to Roger Crookes, one of the GCA's team of Ruxley Rose judges, the new-look autumn version of the long respected plants competition, which runs into early October, is a golden opportunity for centres to set themselves apart from competitors, and inspire customers.

"This competition is not about big buildings and expensive infrastructure, it is all about making the plants shine, customers smile, and creating displays which are unique to your centre – customers are always looking for something different, and are loyal to a local centre with individual character," he said.

The competition has two size categories: smaller centres ( £3m turnover) and larger centres (over £3m), and includes houseplants and outdoor plants.

For more information about entering this year's Ruxley Rose competition GCA members can contact Pat Adams at the GCA office on 01993 871456.