Growing with the flow

STRONG growth is putting specialist supplier the Hampshire Seed Company (HSC) on a sound footing as its exclusive mixes boost a new generation of UK flower producers and make amateur gardeners' floral dreams come true.

- Maisha Frost

With 650 seed varieties on offer, if a dashing dahlia or a bouquet-perfect Cosmos Bipinnatus Capri medley take your fancy, HSC is your go-to.

Founded a year ago by entrepreneur and buying expert Jane Westoby, the business is the creative response to an evolving commercial landscape, aesthetic tastes trends and production pivot on her own patch of land.

"We curate specifically for long-stemmed cut flowers and seed mixes customers can't buy elsewhere," she explains. "Awareness about sustainability has increased demand for locally grown flowers and with work-from-home more hobby gardeners are turning professional.