News &c
Hydro power Dutch grower Javado has launched a hydro range in the UK and Ireland, under the brand Beautanic Lifestyle. The substrate is lava rock granules and plants will come ready potted in a plastic pot with a water reservoir. Javado offers the substrate and pots separately too.
Clean air act Lots of news headlines this week for French startup Neoplants over Neo P1, their genetically modified devil's ivy (Epipremnum aureum), which they claim removes air pollutants 30 times better than regular houseplants. The retail price is $179 and it comes in a PLA Flax pot: you'll have to join their waiting list to get your hands on one.
Studio deadline Fancy seeing your name up in lights at the Chelsea Flower Show next May? The deadline for applications for the Houseplant Studios category at RHS Chelsea 2023 is November 7 - find out more by emailing exhibitorapplications@rhs.org.uk.
End of the affair After two years of trading, houseplant shop Leafy Love Affair in Edinburgh is closing later this month due to price increases. The owner says on Insta: "I did debate whether we would just increase our prices, but as a plant lover first and foremost, I just couldn’t do it in the current cost of living crisis."
Fan the flames Windowsill Plants is moving to its first permanent premises in Market Harborough, opening next Thursday (November 10). Up to now, Susie Lickman has been selling at markets and pop-ups, but is taking over the distinctive Old Fire Station building in this Leicestershire town for her planty business.
Networking, orchid-style Thanks to the RHS Orchid Review for alerting me to new research into mycorrhizal fungal networks found on communities of epiphytic orchids. Fungi are fascinating: I recommend Merlin Sheldrake's book Entangled Life as a great place to start learning about them.
Going for a song A heads up for Kent-based readers: intersectional feminist opera group Hera are looking for three volunteers to be interviewed and photographed with their plants as inspiration for a "mini photo opera". Details here.
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