A family firm with decades of experience
The Docherty family has operated out of the nursery at Lamesley since 1962, when Bill's dad, also called Bill, moved to the site. Young Bill followed in his dad's footsteps, amassing vast experience in both retail and wholesale horticulture. Now wife Christine works alongside, and sons Jonathan and Andrew help out.
Testimonials
@BillsPlants was working over your way - came in for a browse - what an amazing place! Bought a few plants - will definitely be back :)
Anitaj, via Twitter
Magnolia Stellata, Clematis Montana + Buddleja Pink Delight planted today thanks to @BillsPlants - first but not last visit @ThorndeanDerrick, via Twitter
Plants look great now in tubs. Thanks lots, absolute bargain. Will be back this weekend for more x
@Di_Oliver0507, via Twitter
My wife bought plants & grasses from @BillsPlants. Exc. quality and reasonably priced .
@allotment_ne , via Twitter
This display of tall, beautifully perfumed flowering currants was created by Christine - she potted them on so they were perfectly vertical, giving a very different form to the usual bush shape - and all for just £10 a plant.
Loving care and attention - the Ribes display, by Christine
Bill's business ethos: "We offer knowledge of our products, value for money and pride ourselves on being fair with our customers."
The history of horticulture in the Docherty family goes back much further than the Lamesley site.
It began when Bill Senior had some allotments near the Scotswood Bridge and grew cut flowers to sell to florists.
He then moved on to land near Ryton and Clara Vale and was one of the first businesses in the old Plant Market in the Greenmarket extension in Newcastle (where Debenhams now stands).