Imagine wandering through the vibrant halls of London’s premier horticultural event, where delicate crimson leaves unfurl like whispers of autumn in spring, drawing crowds to a display that reveals the hidden magic of tree propagation. This year, that scene comes to life as a dedicated nursery brings its passion for Japanese maples to the forefront.
A Decade of Dedication to Rare Maples
Nestled in Storrington, West Sussex, Miles Japanese Maples has evolved from a humble backyard operation into a respected name in horticulture. Founded in 2016 by enthusiast Miles Hayward, the family-run nursery addresses a longstanding frustration: the scarcity of high-quality Japanese maples in local garden centers. Specializing in over 50 varieties, including numerous rare and unusual cultivars, the business emphasizes meticulous cultivation—nurturing trees from seed and performing all grafting in the UK. This approach underscores a core philosophy of prioritizing quality over quantity, fostering trees that thrive in British conditions. As part of the Plant Fairs Roadshow network, which connects more than 40 independent nurseries across southern England, Miles Japanese Maples contributes to a collaborative showcase at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show. In 2026, the Roadshow will occupy five stands, joining forces with exhibitors such as Daisy Roots from Hertfordshire, Pelham Plants in East Sussex, Moore And Moore Plants in Billericay, Essex, and the Kent Group of the Hardy Plant Society. For Hayward, this affiliation amplifies the nursery’s reach while maintaining its focus on authentic, homegrown expertise.
The Lindley Display: Spotlight on Seed Propagation
Returning for its fourth appearance at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show in May 2026, Miles Japanese Maples will present a “Lindley Display” in the Pavilion to commemorate the nursery’s 10th anniversary. This exhibit takes a back-to-basics stance, educating visitors on the art of growing Acer species from seed. It will feature a diverse array of seedlings, mature seed-grown trees, and grafted specimens, highlighting the genus’s rich history and genetic variety. Hayward, a self-described dendrophile, aims to demystify propagation for enthusiasts. “I get asked about propagation all the time and I’m hoping that the display will highlight the rewards of growing from seed and demonstrate that it’s a simple process that anyone can try at home,” he explained. The display will also nod to the origins of beloved cultivars, noting that nearly every famous named variety began as an unexpected “weird” chance seedling centuries ago. While Acer palmatum remains the industry’s staple, the showcase will extend to lesser-known species to illustrate broader diversity:
- Acer buergerianum (Trident Maple), prized for its glossy three-lobed leaves and frequent use in bonsai cultivation.
- Snake Bark Maples, distinguished by their striated bark patterns and distinctive foliage.
- Acer campestre (Field Maple), the only native maple in Britain, providing a hardy contrast to more exotic imports.
This selection process is no small feat, especially following a challenging wet winter. Trees remain dormant until mid-April, when leafing reveals their potential. “Selecting trees for Chelsea is a bit like managing a talent show,” Hayward likened. “If you were creating a boyband, you wouldn’t want five lead singers who all sounded the same, and it’s the same with the Acers—I will be looking for star trees that complement one another and bring different talents and aspects to the staging at Chelsea.” Final choices for the 4.6m x 2.4m stand will be made in April after careful assessment in the nursery’s polytunnels, ensuring safe transport and visual harmony.
Reflections on Legacy and Future Growth
Hayward’s aversion to chasing trends like the “New Plant of the Year” award reflects the nursery’s commitment to timeless varieties. “I don’t go for ‘New Plant of the Year’ at Chelsea. I love older cultivars and rare species. Bringing them to the world’s most famous flower show feels like the perfect way to celebrate our 10th year,” he shared. By focusing on propagation education, the display not only honors the nursery’s journey but also inspires a new generation of gardeners to experiment with seed-growing, potentially boosting home horticulture and conservation of rare maples. The implications extend beyond the showground, promoting sustainable practices that reduce reliance on imported plants and encourage biodiversity in UK gardens. As climate challenges intensify, such exhibits underscore the value of resilient, locally adapted species. Would you consider starting your own Japanese maple from seed this spring, inspired by this hands-on approach to gardening?
Fact Check
- Miles Japanese Maples, founded in 2016 in Storrington, West Sussex, cultivates over 50 varieties of Japanese maples, emphasizing UK-based seed propagation and grafting.
- The nursery is affiliated with the Plant Fairs Roadshow, a network of more than 40 southern England nurseries, which will feature five stands at the 2026 RHS Chelsea Flower Show.
- The 2026 exhibit, a Lindley Display in the Pavilion, will educate on Acer seed propagation using seedlings, mature trees, and grafted examples, including species like Acer buergerianum and Acer campestre.
- Founder Miles Hayward selects show trees in April after dormancy, comparing the process to a talent show for complementary varieties.
- The display celebrates the nursery’s 10th anniversary without pursuing awards, focusing on rare and older cultivars to highlight historical diversity.
