Do it differently with Dobbies this Mother's Day

Dobbies is gearing up for a busy week as the people of Milton Keynes search for the perfect Mother's Day gift.

A traditional, bright bouquet is always one of the most popular gifts, but this year, Dobbies is encouraging people across the UK to do it differently and give the gift of gardening.

Instead of flowers that might only last a week, choose plants and gardening accessories to help your mum take some time out and look after her indoor and outdoor plants, getting her home and garden ready for the warmer months ahead.

Steve Guy, horticultural buying and merchandising director at Dobbies said: “Whether your mum is a gardening novice or a plant expert, we have a huge range of potted plants, flowers, shrubs and accessories available that make looking after your home – inside and out - simple.

“With a little care, it’s easy to achieve a burst of colour and texture that will really make an impact in your home or garden and last all summer.

“We’ve pulled together our top five picks for alternative Mother’s Day gifts this year;

For a different take on a classic flower, Orchids can also be planted in a pot of your choice – perfect for ensuring your Mother’s Day gift includes your mum’s favourite colours or perfectly matches to the décor of her home.

> For a real showstopper, why not try planting two or three together in a larger pot, creating a talking point that will really stand out.

> Hanging baskets are a great way to add colour and scent to small gardens and instantly transform your garden for spring – our £6 pre-planted baskets are a great choice and are really easy to look after.

A hanging basket at your front door is a lovely, welcoming touch.

Choose an arrangement with primroses for a bright, vibrant splash of colour.

Or for something a little more unusual, why not plant small strawberry plants in the basket.

By summer, your mum will be able to enjoy tasting the fruits and using them to make homemade treats.

> The Camellia is our plant of the month in March – this striking and elegant flower is versatile and easy to maintain and adds vibrancy to any plant bed, patio pot or window box. Dobbies free planted container service also means you can get your present all planted up ready to go without any hassle at all.

> Plant Roses once and they’ll bloom every spring. ‘Mum’s Bouquet’ is a variety that makes the perfect present this Mothering Sunday.

A single rose is also beautiful presented in a small, delicate vase inside the home.

> A Wreath is not just for Christmas – take inspiration from bright Spring colour palettes to create a beautiful floral wreath for mum.

All you need is some oasis, foliage from the garden, a bunch of cut flowers, floristry twine to tie it all together and ribbon to add the finishing touch – a perfect homemade gift for her to hang on the day.

“My team are on hand to help you pick the perfect Mother’s Day gift and offer hints and tips that you can pass on to your mum to help her made the most of her garden and plants,” added Steve.

“With plenty of deals on plants, and a fantastic Mother’s Day Lunch and Afternoon Tea on offer, Dobbies is the perfect place to pick up a last minute gift and enjoy the day with your mum.”