Last week, Fi & Vics from our Maintenance team joined renowned rosarian Jenny ‘Niff’ Barnes for a specialist rose sculpting workshop at Ashby Manor House in Northamptonshire, exploring how thoughtful pruning can transform roses into living works of art.

Jenny with Fi & Vics from the Charles Hoare team

Known as ‘Niffing’, this distinctive technique trains rose stems into elegant spirals, interlocking circles and sculptural forms that bring structure and interest to the garden all year round — while supporting healthy growth and abundant summer blooms.

As RHS-qualified horticulturalists, we’re passionate about learning from the best and bringing fresh ideas to the gardens we care for. We look forward to putting these techniques into practice where the plants — and gardens — lend themselves to a little creative flair.