APL members impress judges
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The APL stand - ‘What Lies Before, What Lies Beneath.’
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Members of the Association of Professional Landscapers (APL), part of the Horticultural Trades Association, achieved top recognition at this year’s RHS Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival with a series of award-winning gardens showcasing quality craftsmanship and sustainable design.
The standout success was the Subaru Cocoon garden, built by APL members Big Fish Landscapes, which took home Gold, Best Show Garden, Best Construction, and the RHS Environmental Innovation Award. The garden reimagines a modern walled retreat using K-Briq — a low-carbon brick made from recycled materials.
Several other APL-built gardens also earned Silver Medals, including the Three Graces of Galicia Garden (Conquest Creative Spaces), Charleston 250 (Surrey Hills Landscapes), Illusion 2050 (Kitti Kovacs Garden Design), and Before the Concrete Sets (Surrounding Counties Landscaping). All showcased innovative features, from reclaimed materials to thoughtful planting and construction techniques.
To mark its 30th Anniversary, the APL also created a dedicated show stand: What Lies Before, What Lies Beneath. Designed by Phil Tremayne and built by Bushy Business, it educates visitors on the process and expertise behind professional landscaping.
Phil Tremayne, APL General Manager, said: “We’re proud to see so many members honoured for their sustainable, high-quality work. Special congratulations to Big Fish Landscapes for a standout gold-medal garden.”
In the Floral Marquee, HTA members also impressed, with David Austin Roses and Farmyard Nurseries winning Gold, Harkness Rose Company earning Silver-Gilt, and Potash Garden Centre taking Silver. Full award listings can be viewed at: www.rhs.org.uk.