If you have ever had a delay in a landscaping job because all of a sudden that “perfect” hedge or tree is not available, then one thing you will realise – it takes as much planning to get plants on site correctly ordered and not just the paving, fencing and groundworks. For more information on Plants for Trade, visit a site like palmstead.co.uk/wholesale-plants-for-trade-in-kent
UK nurseries grow to a cycle not always for the next-day delivery demand. A real-life timeline you can adopt to help finesse the delays and expedite shortage substitutions:
The quick rule of thumb
Light work (a handful of shrubs/hedging): 2-4 weeks’ notice
Seasonal medium jobs: eg, full garden planting: 4-8 weeks’ notice
Big orders (estate, commercial or large quantity of one item): book 8-12 plus weeks upfront
Specialist: If you require instant hedging or larger topiary, please be sure to add extra time.
Key trends to look out for UK seasonal timelines
Spring (March–May)
This is prime planting time, so popular ones can go fast
Six to eight weeks for large schemes
Hedging, roses, perennials and feature shrubs will all be under pressure.
For late spring planting, order before you think you need to, as demand ramps up in a hurry as soon as we have warm spells.
Summer (June–August)
While summer planting is definitely possible, it comes with much more risk and maintenance.
Order 4-6 weeks ahead
Prioritise container-grown stock
If sites are very exposed, plan on a few extra waterings and consider backup plants.
Autumn (September–November)
For many plants, especially trees and hedging, autumn is perfect.
Order 6-10 weeks ahead
This is one of the times when many landscapers and developers put in those large orders.
Winter (December–February)
Winter: minimal dig; weather and scheduling may become an issue.
Bare root hedging and whips: 8-12 weeks
Accommodate frozen ground, weather events and logistical delays for delivery.
What can extend lead times?
Volume: larger production of the same plants may require booking in advance
Size: actual height, container sizes or calliper
Plant passports and traceability: Biosecurity paperwork
Site Access: (tight delivery windows, restricted parking or phased builds)
An easy way out of trouble
Once your planting plan and price are agreed on, advise your supplier to reserve stock and confirm:
Lead time
Delivery date options
Substitution policy.
Consequently, ordering early is not only a method of safeguarding your time but also of protecting the margin on manufacturing.