After many enjoyable years propagating plants – to give to friends or sell to raise funds for various charities – a long-standing ambition to open our own nursery was realised in 2009. This opportunity arose thanks to the generosity of Lord and Lady Crawshaw, owners of Whatton House, next to which Piecemeal Plants is located. The Whatton estate is situated in north-west Leicestershire, adjacent to the Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire county borders, and just five minutes from Junction 24 of the M1.

 On the A6 between Kegworth and Hathern – about half way along a short stretch of dual carriageway – look out for the Whatton House signs by the lodge at the bottom of the main drive. Although independent, our nursery is located in a walled area between the car park for the House and its Gardens.

Our Plants

 Since the nursery opened, the range of hardy herbaceous perennials on offer has increased dramatically, and continues to do so. Each year, exciting new stock is added. For details, do check our database. This lists the majority and we aim to update it at regular intervals. Many of our perennials are unusual, although we also offer traditional cottage garden plants, and most are not difficult to grow. In addition, a small selection of half-hardy and tender plants is normally available as well as various flowering bulbs and, occasionally, a few annuals. Visitors are very welcome to browse without commitment to buy, and to ask for care and planting advice.

 Prices are very reasonable – not like those in many garden centres where, in any case, you would not find such a wide variety! Most of our stock is sold in 9cm, 1 litre, 1.5 litre or 2 litre pots . Some plants cost less. You may find a few special or much larger ones are a little more.

Whatton House Gardens

 If you have time, you may also wish to visit Whatton House Gardens. Entrance is not expensive. Accompanied children free. Dogs are welcome if kept on a lead. You will find 15 acres of attractive, peaceful English country gardens, much of which was landscaped in Victorian times under the direction of the wife of the first Lord Crawshaw. Wander through the informal woodland garden, and across the Big Lawn to the arboretum. Find the Dutch Garden, the Chinese Garden and the Rose Garden – and don’t forget to look for the Bogey Hole!