Page 1 
Now On
Potato Growing Fact Sheet
Spring Bulbs
Full English Breakfast
Save Every Time You Buy
in store now
Start enjoy the benefits our Reward Card holders receive
Buy 1 get 2nd HALF PRICE
Daffodils Tulips Crocus Snowdrops Hyacinths
Monday - Friday 8.30-11.30
More Info
Garden Furniture
Special Offers on a selection of great sets
More Info
Seed Potatoes Potato Growing Fact Sheet
A staple daily food for most households, so a great investment in space and time that will give every home tasty rewards that can be stored for months. Unlike farmers, amateur gardeners can select
potato varieties for taste and texture
rather than huge crops.
Soil and position
Potatoes will grow in almost any soil although they crop much better if the soil is enriched with a balanced plant food such as Gro Your Own Vegetable & Fruit Plant Food. Potatoes grow best in an acid soil so add well rotted garden compost or liberal amounts of Gro Your Own Soil Improver to the bottom of the planting trench. Don’t lime soil at any time.
If you don’t have the garden space, try growing them in either ready filled Gro-Sacs or Spud bags which you fill with compost , specially designed for potatoes, on a balcony, patio or path. The Gro Your Own gro-sac for potatoes and root vegetables has been formulated for better yields without requiring lots of space or the hard work digging.
Seed varieties
Take your pick at your local garden centre. For plenty of small ‘new’ potatoes in July plant a variety classified as ‘Early’. For a large crop of big tubers that will be ready in September select a ‘Maincrop’.
We only sell certified seed potatoes which is the type you should always look out for. You will then know they are free from virus infections. The texture of cooked potatoes varies between waxy and flowery and some are best for boiling, others for roasting and even more for chips. For example ‘Red Duke of York’ is useless when boiled as it falls apart, but for roast potatoes or mashed there is nothing to beat it.
We sell 4 types of seed potato - Early,First,Maincrop and Salad each have their benefits - see the board in store for the variety which best suites you.
Planting potato sets
Seed potatoes are normally available in the first few months of the year, well before they can be planted
outside. To get them growing safely, place them in egg boxes or a seed tray so that the new shoots can grow indoors on a light windowsill that is frost free. This technique, called ‘chitting’, is said to improve yields, but probably is used only to gain a few weeks in the time needed for growing earlies in the ground and to provide the right conditions for storage.
In April dig a trench 15cm (6in) deep and plant the potatoes leaving a gap of 30cm (12in)
between each one. Leave a space of 60cm (2ft) between rows. Fill the trench with soil
mixed 50:50 with Multi Purpose Compost, garden compost, or other organic matter.
Care
When the green stems have grown to 30cm (1ft) tall pull some extra soil around the stems to make a ridge. This soil is to exclude light from the potatoes that are forming on the surface.Water in dry weather and sprinkle SlugClear Advanced Pellets around the plants after showery weather. If the weather is wet during July then potato blight could easily spread damaging the storing qualities of your crop. To protect the foliage, spray with Dithane or Copper Fungicide during a dry spell of weather.
Water potatoes during dry weather and add All Purpose Soluble Plant Food to your watering can every fortnight throughout the summer.
Harvesting
Earlies will be ready for digging when the flowers have all fully opened; maincrop or lates
in September. Reject any potatoes that are green, they are poisonous.
Giftware Giftware
Candles / Bath and Body Gifts
We have candles, and scented jar candles to match the occasion as well as luxury bath and body gift sets. We have quality coloured pillar candles, taper candles and floating candles for that special occasion or that forthcoming wedding day. These candles can help you create the centrepiece of your choice. So if you are looking for a quality scented candle, or a gift for a special person or occasion we are sure that you will not be disappointed by our large selection.
Some of the well known brands available at Busy Bee .......
In addition to catering for the garden, Busy Bee Garden Centre can help meet your home and gift needs. Our unique gift department houses a quality selection of bespoke items carefully selected by our dedicated in-house team.
Whether you require a gift for that special occasion or a treat for the home, were sure that there will be something that catches your eye.
Sourcing products from local suppliers as well as those further afield, enables us to stock a diverse product range, and something to suit every taste. Bringing together pieces from unknown, as well as more well-known names also allows us to maintain the originality and dynamism of our gift department.
Special Offers Just some of the great offers we currently have on offer
Riverdale 6 Seater Set
Our Price
Includes Rectangular Table 6 chairs & cushions
£749
rrp £1499
More Info More Info
Riverdale 2 Seat Bistro
Our Price
Includes Round Table 2 chairs & cushions
£349
rrp £599
More Info More Info
Bahamas Lounge Set
Our Price
Includes Sofa,2 Armchairs, Coffee Table & Seat Cushions
£479
rrp £799
More Info More Info
Bahamas 4 Seater Set
Our Price
Includes Round Table 4 chairs & seat pads
£499
rrp £599
More Info
More Info Blank Apply here for your Reward Card
Save
every time you buy......
The Gardeners' Reward Card
Here at Busy Bee Garden Centre, we value our customers' continued support. The Gardeners Reward Card is our way of saying thanks to you and give you extra value for money when you make your purchases.Our Reward Card customers also receive EXCLUSIVE special offers,discounts and free items with the
How it works
5% of all purchases (excluding the Restaurant & purchases online) can be redeemed in vouchers! Every time you make a purchase your total spend is logged on your swipe card. You will receive a Reward Voucher approximately every 2 months to redeem against future purchases (again excluding the Restaurant). Fill out the application form in store and immediately receive your card. You can start collecting points as soon as you get your card! (One per household).
Receiving your Gardeners Reward vouchers
Vouchers are issued at approximately 2 month intervals if you've qualified within that period and come complete with a newsletter with EXCLUSIVE vouchers for special offers,discounts and FREE items.
Voucher Validity
Each voucher has a "use by" date printed on it allowing you 2 months to spend from date of issue.
Where to spend your Gardeners Reward vouchers
Gardeners Reward vouchers can be redeemed against purchases at Busy Bee Garden Centre (except in the Restaurant or online).
How to Apply
Sign up in-store - fill in an Application Form and receive your Gardeners Reward Card immediately. (Application Forms are available throughout the store)
Sign up online - fill in the application form and receive your Garderners Reward Card in the post in 2-3 days.
Blank02 
Please fill in the form to receive details of new products and craft demonstration days
Craft Craft Department
Craft Demonstration
New demos soon
Papermania At Christmas Time is a festive collection perfect for traditional Christmas crafting. The range features rich colours and classic Christmas imagery from the Hallmark archives.
Enjoy a magical Christmas of crafting with the Papermania Enchanted Christmas collection.The range is beautifully illustrated with magical imagery that includes fairies and Santa; Christmas trees and holly, which are sure to delight young and old alike. The Papermania Enchanted Christmas Collection features a cornucopia of seasonal supplies that are great for making three dimensional projects!
Christmas 
Christmas World at Busy Bee has become a hugely significant aspect here at Busy Bee Offering something different has been one of our main objectives and having lots of different room size themes gives customers the opportunity to see the finished look which you can achieve at home Lighting is always a big part of Christmas World and whether you'll be decorating inside or outside, you'll be sure of finding lots of inspiration and lots of choice. We have already started planning for Christmas 2012 and have some really amazing ideas.
Christmas Lunches October -December
The Honey Pot Coffee Shop has seating for over 130. Serving a hearty breakfast, lunchtime meals, mouth watering Cakes and Pastries . But its the 'Magic of Christmas' that so important and so special, so make sure that you visit Christmas World at Busy Bee youll find that they really do have something for everyone.
Coffee Shop Honey Pot Coffee Shop
We have an extensive range of deliciously home made cuisine.
We try and cater for everyones needs and offer a host of wholesome
and traditional meals .
We offer Breakfast from 8:30am 11:00am Monday - Saturday ( 10.00-11.00am Sundays )
* Traditional English Breakfast with sausages and bacon, and all the extras you might expect
* Various baps/sandwiches : bacon, egg, sausage etc
Lunch from 12.00am 2.30pm
We pride ourselves on serving fresh homemade meals ,check the specials board for a variety of mouth watering dishes which change daily.
Afternoon Tea from 2.30pm - 4.30pm
* Freshly made sandwiches, home made scone with fresh cream and jam, served with your choice of tea or coffee.
Our Sandwiches and cakes are available all day, along with hot and cold drinks.
We also offer Jacket Potatoes, Soup, Baguettes, Sausage rolls and Pasties from 10:00am 3.30pm
When ever possible we try to use local produce in our meals.
Coach Trips
Groups, parties and coaches are all welcome by prior appointment. Please contact Sue on 01983 811096 ext 5.
We welcome coach parties of any size .
We can comfortably accommodate coach parties. The Honey Pot seats over 120 people and from the conservatory you can enjoy stunning fews of the countryside and Brading Downs.
Bird Care Bird Care
Help your chirpy friends love your garden... ...check out our wide selection of wild bird food and accessories so you can treat your feathered friends and encourage them to visit your garden again and again. We stock Chapelwood bird food and accessories including feeders, feeding stations, bird tables and much more.
If you're unsure what foods you should buy to suit the birds in your garden, have a chat with one of the team for advice on what types of feed different birds will go for, and the type of feeder they prefer.
Bird Care Products
Pack Sizes to suit all Customers (Especially the popular bulk sizes)
Specialist Wild Bird Feeds (Insect and suet based products)
Bird Feeders - Wooden & Metal Styles (Designed to complement our food ranges)
Aquatics Aquatics
Add that extra magic...
Dazzle your garden with one of our water features and ornaments that would be at home in any garden. If your just looking for that small garden gift or an amazing focal point for your garden we got it all. Our attractive water features are easy to use and setup will make a focal point in your garden or on your patio. Just sit back and relax and let the calming sounds wash away all your stresses and strains.
Our best selling water features, further selections can be found instore or at our online shop
-
Mirror Falls
This Natural Woodland Water Feature is - Self contained Suitable for outdoors and indoor use Easy to install Just add water and connect to electric supply Mains pump included and supplied with 10m of cable Supplied with low voltage lights Frost resistant Heavy weight, durable polyresin design Compliant with applicable IP and BS
£259
-
Azure Column Water Feature
S lef contained resin water feature Blue LED lights Water pump with 10m of cable Easy to install
£119.99
-
Buckingham Solar Water Feature
Solar power saves on electricity bills and the integral battery ensures your water feature works even at night ! Strong resin construction Integral light Very easy installation Solar powered Can be placed anywhere in your garden which has sunlight
£129.99
Outdoor Furniture Garden Furniture
-
Windsor Hammock £299 -
Carmel Set £299 -
Antigua Pavillion £599 -
4 Seater Riverdale £899 -
6 Seater Antigua £629
Entertain your guests in style...
We stock a variety of stylish outdoor furniture sets at great value, with a selection of different materials including hardwood, aluminium, glass and resin wicker. We pride ourselves in the quality of furniture we provide; We stock all the accessories such as furniture treatments, outdoor covers and also stock a range of cushions, parasols and parasol bases.
A great time of year for entertaining and relaxing in the garden. Our latest range of barbecues will help bring that special magic to your party. Our excellent range of Barbecues will ensure your food is a great success at your BBQ. We stock a range of gas and charcoal barbecues including top brand WEBER, accompanied by all the necessary accessories such as charcoal, lighting fluid, tool kits, lava rock, cleaning products and more
Selection from our online store
-
Bahamas 4 Seater Set
The set includes: 1 x Bahamas 110cm Round Table including Glass Top (H72cm W135cm) 4 x Bahamas Armchair including Seat Cushion (H85cm W60cm D60cm)
£499
-
Sorrento Solo Hammock
The Helicopter Swing is a unique new idea from Suntime garden furniture. Not only is this swing good looking it is comfy too. The chair swings freely from the frame and incorporates a sun shade which is ideal to keep the sun off when it gets too warm. The Helicopter swing has won industry awards for innovation. The seat frame is made from coated Aluminium to give long life and comes complete with padded cushion and canopy.
£225
-
Antigua Pavillion
Antigua 260x320cm black powder coated steel frame dark brown gazebo with air vent. Mosquito nets come as standard and can be zipped completely shut.. 2 Three seat benches with dark brown cushions. Toughened glass top coffee table. Protective storage bag.
£599
Barbeques Barbeques
A great time of year for entertaining and relaxing in the garden. Our latest range of barbecues will help bring that special magic to your party . Our excellent range of Barbecues will ensure your food is a great success at your BBQ. We stock a range of gas and charcoal barbecues including top brand WEBER, accompanied by all the necessary accessories such as charcoal, lighting fluid, tool kits, lava rock, cleaning products and more
Selection from our online shop
-
Smokey Joe Spring Green
The original, iconic charcoal kettle barbecue in miniature! Picnics, camping, holidays - just grab it and go. Features: - Fire and rust-proof lid and bowl made from porcelain-enamelled steel - Rust-proof vents regulate airflow - Heavy duty cooking grate - Weather-proof handle with protective heat shield - Lid lock for carrying, also doubles as a lid holder - Includes charcoal measuring cup - Cooking area: 1075CM2 / 167IN2 - Exterior dimensions: 46 x 36 x 39CM (H x W x D)
£59.99
-
57cm Weber Compact Barbeque
Weber 57cm Compact Kettle Charcoal Barbecue in Black This is a great compact barbecue, a step up in size from the 47cm model, even though it has a compact theme design and can fit into small spaces this Weber barbecue still delivers great cooking results, built and designed to the usual famous Weber standards it will be a barbecue to last many seasons. This model is a great for cooking outdoors, and if you require the extra cooking space at an affordable price Includes 10 Year Warranty Porcelain enamelled bowl and lid No rust aluminium vents Weather proof handle with protective heat shield Inner handle heat shield Triple plated cooking grate No rust ash catcher Crack proof all weather wheels
£99.99
-
Weber Spirit E210
Product Specification 2 Stainless steel burners, 26,000 BTU per hour input Crossover ignition system Porcelain enamelled cooking grates Porcelain enamelled Flavourizer bars Thermometer and black painted cast aluminium end caps Primary cooking area 350sq in Warming rack area 108sq in Total cooking area = 528 sq in Enclosed cart with black doors, stainless handles and black painted side and rear panels Crackproof all-weather wheels
£349.99
Gardening Supplies Gardening Supplies
Lawn Care
There are two main seasons for caring for your lawn - spring and autumn - with top up care in-between. We stock everything you need including feeds, weed killers and moss control, with many products doing all three jobs in one bag. Expert advice and tips to get the best from your lawn are always available, but if your lawn is beyond repair then we stock freshly cut turf (dependent on weather and seasonal availability) or grass seed suitable for multi-purpose, shady or fine lawns. Call us or email contact_busybeegardencentre.com for turf availabilty
Plant Food & Compost
We have a wide selection of feeds for your outdoor pots and borders with branded names including Miracle-Gro and Tomorite. Your indoor plants are just as important with Baby Bio general feed, citrus feeds for summer and winter and drip feeders for regular easy feeding.
Choosing the right compost is the foundation to successful plant growth. We have a wide selection of composts to choose from for all your gardening needs such as seedling compost, hanging basket compost, organic farmyard manure and many others. Remember we offer an Island wide delivery service - ask for details.
Weed Killer & Pest Control
We have a range of weed killers available for all the different types of weeds with some visibly working within one hour. Our weed killers are suitable for driveways, paths and even for those weeds in your lawn (suitable to use without killing the grass). We have many top brand names including Round-Up, Pathclear and Tumbleweed.
To get rid of those unwanted pests and control any plant diseases, we stock a wide range of products from organic bug sprays to fungus control suitable for flowers or fruit and vegetables. If it is not a plant pest you want to get rid of then we have a selection of controls for mice and rats too. During the summer months your tasty looking plant leaves are very attractive to slugs so control them with one of our slug control products. As always, expert advice is available about any of our products but it is always recommended that you read all the packet instructions before use.
Plants Plants
Fruit & Ornamental Trees
We always have a good selection of both fruit and ornamental trees in stock accompanied by the appropriate accessories such as tree ties and stakes. We have a huge range of shrubs and larger specimen shrubs for instant effect. If there is a plant we do not have in stock when you visit, we will do our best to order one in for you.
Climbers
Climbers such as clematis have many uses within the garden such as hiding walls, tanks and arches etc. Their impressive display of brightly coloured flowers brings cheer to any garden. We have a large selection of clematis, honeysuckle and other climbers such as jasmine, passionflower, virginia creeper and everlasting sweet peas.
Plants of Interest
We have many interesting plants such as bamboo, acers, rhododendrons, azalea, the list is endless. The foliage of plants can be one of the most interesting features especially those which change through a spectrum of colour as the Autumn approaches. Once again our staff will be on hand to offer any help and advice when selecting the plant that is right for you.
Roses
Roses are a great tradition in British gardens and can not only provide a beautiful spectrum of colours but also a beautiful fragrance throughout the gardens. We stock a large range of patio,shrub and climbing roses.
Other Varieties
Perennials, Alpines, Heathers and more are available from our plant area. Whether your planting up borders, beds or patio containers we will have excellent quality plants here for you to select from.
Five Year Hardy Plant Guarantee...
Here at Busy Bee Garden Centre we are committed to providing you with the highest quality plants and will guarantee a free replacement or credit for any container-grown, hardy plant which dies within 5 years of purchase providing:
It is Accompanied by a valid Till Receipt
The Plant bears our Garden Centre Label
Each return will be dealt with on an individual basis. This guarantee does not cover plant failure due to adverse weather, neglect or accidental damage.
If you would like any further information, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Our Nursery Our Nursery
We are busy making up hundreds of baskets and tubs ready for that instant hit of colour. All our plants receive our tender loving care, we make sure they are fed and watered, and to give all our tubs and baskets the best possible start we always add slow release fertiliser. This ensures a show of colour all season long.
We grow thousands of bedding plants
here at the nursery on the Island. Fresh ,healthy plants at very competitive prices.
Ideal plants for your tubs,baskets and borders.
About Us About Us
Busy Bee Garden Centre started life 24 years ago in 1987 when the current owners Mr & Mrs Leslie had a small greenhouse with open area for planting. Since then Busy Bee has expanded to be the largest garden centre on the Isle of Wight. Facilities at Busy Bee now include a coffee shop with an opening roof conservatory lovely to sit out whatever the weather - The Honey Pot which serves meals,snacks and drinks throughout the day,baby changing ,large free car park and wheelchairs.
We've combined years of experience providing our customers with the very best quality,range and value.We will be putting on our site not only new products but those items which have proven so popular with our customers over the years.Also for people visiting our store on the island this is an ideal place to look for special offers or events we will be holding in the future.
Opening Times
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday
8am - 5pm 8am - 5pm 8am - 5pm 8am - 5pm 8am - 5pm 8am - 5pm 10.30am- 4.30pm
We look forward to seeing you soon
Services
Delivery Service
We offer an extensive delivery service on the Isle of Wight. A small charge is made for delivery. Please telephone or email for more details.
Delivery to mainland UK is available and more details of this can be found here
Disabled Facilities & Access
The centres offer disabled parking, disabled toilets, and easy access to all areas
Carry to Car
Staff will be only too pleased to help you with any heavy, bulky or awkward items to your car. Please ask a member of staff when making your purchase.
Free Help & Advice
Our friendly and knowledgeable staff are always available to assist you with any gardening questions and problems you may have, either in store or by telephone or email.
Hardy Plant Guarantee
All our hardy plants are of high quality and will grow if looked after correctly.
Fruit Trees Planting bare-root fruit trees
In the UK and Europe bare-root trees are supplied during the winter when they are dormant. Bare-root trees should be planted as soon as they arrive, preferably the same day - but do not attempt to plant them if the ground is frozen.
When planting, dig the hole first and do not remove the protective wrapping from the roots until the hole is ready - the roots should be exposed to the air for as short a time as possible.
If you cannot plant the tree in its final position straightaway, you can keep the tree for up to 3 days in a frost-free shed or garage, but do not uncover the roots, and make sure the tree is not exposed to frost.
If you need to store the tree for longer before planting, you should dig a shallow hole, remove the covering from the roots, and lie the tree on the ground so that the roots are in the hole. Then cover the roots with soil and press firmly - this removes the air and prevents frost damaging the roots.
Most new trees need a stake or post to support them as they get established. A proper tree stake is best.
Do NOT add compost or fertilizer to the planting hole (unless you are planting on re-claimed building land or have exceptionally poor soil).
Always apply a mulch around the base of the tree after planting.
If you have rabbits or deer in the area, you MUST protect the trees - otherwise they will be eaten during the winter.
Christmas Card Competion 
Busy Bee has teamed up with Isle of Wight radio for a great new competition for 2011. We're asking you to Create a Christmas Card - cut out shapes, draw, paint, colour, use decoupage or any crafting materials you like - be creative ! All we ask is that must do it yourself ! Cards must be no larger than a maximum size of A5 - and there are 3 categories Up to 10 years old 11-16 years old 17 years and over ALL entries must be delivered to Christmas World at Busy Bee by 30th November - the entries will then be voted for by our panel of judges. The best will then be displayed in store and online for the general public to cast their vote. The winners of each category will be announced on Thursday 22nd December on Isle of Wight Radio/Busy Bee website and the winners of each category will receive a £50 Busy Bee voucher to spend in store !
Good Luck !
