New business HortiCo launches at Drove Orchards in Thornham

Since opening at Thornham's Drove Orchards just a few weeks ago, a new nursery and garden emporium business has flourished.

The new business, HortiCo, is run by Jez Scoles and husband Gary Nelson, along with their long time friend Laura Pocock.

Jez and Gary are well known in the area for their botanical expertise and have relocated to Drove Orchards following several years running Burn Valley Nursery in South Creake.

Laura Pocock is widely known for her Pocock's the Artmonger gallery in nearby Burnham Market as well as the Forget-Me-Not Wedding Hire company.

In spite of opening in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic, HortiCo has been incredibly busy and is able to provide plenty of safe, open spaces for customers to shop and relax.

It combines a traditional plant nursery with a large selection of house plants, horticultural sundries and supplies, as well as botanical artworks and gifts from Pocock's the Artmonger. HortiCo specialises in many unusual plants that are difficult to find elsewhere.

Jez Scoles said: ‘When the opportunity arose to move to Drove Orchards, it was something we just knew we had to do. To be surrounded by so many other amazing local businesses such as the Drove Orchards Farm Shop, Gurneys, Eric's, Mim’s Gelato and many more is so exciting and it’s wonderful to see everyone working together for each other.

"Also at Drove Orchards we have the obligatory ‘pick your own’ fruit as well as wonderful glamping experiences so it really is the perfect destination to visit. Since opening it has been touching to see to many familiar faces as well as being able to meet lots of new people and help them create their dream home and garden.”

Gary said: “We have placed benches throughout the nursery and it has been lovely to see children sitting on them eating a delicious gelato from Mim’s who are next door, and fish and chips from Eric’s surrounded by agapanthus in full bloom.

"We have a huge selection of plants for the home and garden, as well as all the botanical sundries you would need. We also have beautiful horticultural art pieces from Laura which really add to the offering here – there is something for everyone."

Laura added: “I am delighted to team up with my friends Jez and Gary and it has offered me a fantastic new challenge. As The Artmonger, my ethos is to support artists from near and far, small independent makers and companies both at HortiCo and in the Burnham Market gallery.

"Unlike there, the offering at HortiCo is 'all things garden' and includes beautiful botanical paintings, handmade glassware, handcrafted jewellery and a stunning array of greetings cards, wrapping paper and stationary all on a botanical theme. HortiCo is more than a nursery, it is a place to lose yourself and get inspired and buy unique items for your home as well as your garden."

HortiCo is dog friendly and handmade dog treats from The Little Blue Cupcakery are also available.