Skip to content
SPAR
An interview with Dundonald Nurseries
A Q&A with Dundonald Nurseries

How long have you been supplying SPAR stores?

We’ve been proudly supplying SPAR for several years now. Over time, our partnership has grown stronger, and we’re now delivering to stores right across Northern Ireland. Demand has steadily increased, and we’re delighted to bring our locally grown plants to even more customers.

What criteria do you use when deciding which plants to sell in-store?

We focus on plants that are in bloom, have strong visual impact to drive impulse buys, and offer a good shelf life. All selections are chosen with the Northern Ireland climate in mind, ensuring customers get plants that thrive locally.

Are there specific customer preferences or trends you consider?

Absolutely. Key seasonal occasions like Mother’s Day, Easter, and Christmas are major drivers, alongside a strong focus on spring bedding and autumn/winter ranges. We also monitor trends in plant styling and colour palettes to keep our offer fresh and relevant.

How often do you update or refresh the plant selection in stores?

We operate a seasonal rotation throughout the year:

Early Spring: Alpine violas, primroses, and spring bulbs 

Summer (April–July): Bedding plants and vibrant summer shrubs 

Autumn/Winter: Cyclamen, heathers, violas, and pansies. 

This approach ensures freshness, variety, and seasonal relevance all year round. 

What factors do you consider when creating container arrangements?

Shelf life is key. Plants must remain fresh and appealing for customers. We also consider visual appeal:

Bold colour contrasts 

Height variation with taller central plants 

Trailing plants around the edges for a full, attractive display 

How do you decide what works best for holidays or special occasions?

We offer a wide range of containers in different sizes and styles, tailored to specific occasions. Seasonal materials and carefully curated plant selections help create gifts that feel personal and timely.

Are your plants all grown locally, or do you source from elsewhere?

Around 90% of our plants are grown right here at Dundonald Nurseries—we produce over 3 million annually! However, during certain times of year, we may source from other trusted suppliers across further afield to meet demand.

How do you maintain strong supplier relationships?

We’ve built long-standing partnerships with our suppliers. While external factors like pricing and Brexit pose challenges, we always prioritise quality. Reliable communication and shared standards help us stay aligned.

How do you ensure your suppliers deliver fresh, high-quality plants?

We depend on our suppliers’ expertise, supported by quality visuals and consistent updates. Judging by imagery and previous reliability, we can ensure our standards are met before anything reaches your stores.

Any top tips for customers at home to keep plants looking their best?

Watering: Early morning or late evening is best to avoid direct sunlight. 

Deadheading: Remove dead flowers and leaves to encourage new blooms. 

Wilted plants: Don’t worry—many bounce back with a deep watering. 

Transplanting: For longevity, consider moving plants from containers into your garden.Â