29 May

Gravel Driveways: Pros, Cons, and Choosing the Right Type

Is your driveway due for an upgrade, but you’re unsure where to start?

Imagine a clean, attractive entrance to your home, edged with colourful plants and crunching softly underfoot. If that sounds like your kind of welcome, a gravel driveway could be exactly what you need.

Whether you're dealing with cracked concrete, surface puddles, or just want something with a bit more character, we understand the challenge. This guide covers the pros and cons of gravel driveways, shows you how to choose the right one, and gives practical tips to keep it looking fantastic.

At MB Wilkes, we supply high-quality materials and expert advice to help you every step of the way in creating a modern gravel driveway.

The Upsides of Gravel Driveways

When it comes to practical, stylish drive solutions, gravelled driveways tick a lot of boxes. They’re affordable, easy to maintain, and endlessly customisable. With so much going for them, it’s easy to see why gravel is such a popular material.

Here’s why a stone driveway might be the right choice:

  • Affordability: One of the most cost-effective surfacing options. You’ll save money on both materials and installation.
  • Low Maintenance: No need for sealing or power washing. A simple rake and occasional top-up is often enough.
  • Visual Versatility: From rustic Cotswold chippings to sleek basalt, there's something to suit every home.
  • Weather Resistance: Gravel holds up beautifully in both scorching sun and frosty winters.
  • Added Security: The crunch of tyres or footsteps on gravel can help alert you to visitors (welcome or not).

Explore our wide range of driveway gravel, shingle and pebbles to discover your perfect match.

The Drawbacks of Gravel Driveways

Now, let’s look at the other side. While modern gravel driveways offer plenty of perks, they’re not entirely hassle-free. It’s worth considering the cons of gravel, as this could very well highlight a possible dealbreaker that might make an alternative option more appealing.

  • Dust: Especially in dry conditions, dust can kick up with passing vehicles. This can settle on cars, windows, and nearby plants.
  • Stone Shifting: Over time, gravel can migrate and form dips, ridges, or even bare patches.
  • Weed Growth: Weeds can push through the surface if not properly managed.
  • Loose Stones Underfoot: Smaller gravel pieces can get caught in shoes or dragged into your home. Not Ideal for Snow or Ice: In winter, clearing snow or ice from a gravel surface is trickier than with tarmac or paving.

Popular Gravel Types for UK Driveways

At MB Wilkes, we stock a variety of types of gravel for driveways and more. We have decorative aggregates that suit different styles and needs, such as blue slate. Blue Slate has a subtle grey-blue tone that shifts with the light, making it ideal for a cool, contemporary stone driveway.

Shingle is the classic choice, offering a golden hue with flecks of black and white. It blends beautifully with traditional and countryside homes. Or you might opt for Red Granite which stands out with a bold, warm terracotta tone. It’s hard-wearing and perfect for high-traffic areas.

Another great option is Cotswold Chippings with their creamy gold finish, great for softening the look of a property and adding that rural charm. Or there’s Recycled Gravel, which is the sustainable option. Made from crushed concrete or asphalt, it’s eco-conscious, tough, and still great-looking.

You can view our full gravel range here and see which style works best for your driveway.

How to Choose the Right Gravel for Your Driveway

With so many options, narrowing down your ideal gravel takes a bit of thought. Here’s what we recommend considering when weighing up the pros and cons of gravel driveways:

  • Size Matters: Larger stones (e.g. 20mm) are better for driveways as they lock together more securely.
  • Match Your Home’s Style: Go for something warm and natural for cottages, or a clean grey for modern looks.
  • Consider Durability: High-traffic areas need tougher, more compact gravel like red granite or basalt.
  • Think Drainage: Most gravelled driveways are naturally permeable, but layering properly ensures no puddling.

Still unsure? Get in touch for tailored advice – we’re happy to help you choose.

How to Maintain Your Gravel Driveway

Even the most low-maintenance option needs a bit of care. If you’re wondering how to make a gravel driveway solid, it’s all about regular upkeep.

Rake it often to keep the stones evenly distributed. Keep a bag or two of the same gravel on hand to fill in any low spots. And make sure to stay on top of weeds by using a membrane underneath and treating growth as it appears.

Whether you prefer a rustic feel or a modern gravel driveway, proper maintenance will keep it looking fresh for years.

 

Get in Touch and Start Planning Your Modern Gravel Driveway

Ready to transform your driveway with a beautiful new finish? At MB Wilkes, we’re here to make it easy. Whether you’re starting from scratch or refreshing an existing surface, we supply everything you need – including expert advice, small load collections, small load delivery, and a full range of gravel types to suit any look.

We’ve been family owned for over 60 years, and we’re proud to be one of the UK’s leading names in landscaping materials. Great service, top quality products, and competitive prices come as standard.

To speak with our friendly team, give us a call on 01258 857465 or send us a message via our contact form. We’d love to help you design a modern gravel driveway that looks fantastic and lasts for years.

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13 May
The Ultimate Guide to Using Decorative Stones in Your Garden
Looking to refresh your outdoor space but unsure where to start? Picture a garden with structure, texture and colour, all brought to life with the clever use of decorative stones. From pebbles and gravel to slate and shingle, these versatile materials offer endless landscaping ideas to suit every style and function. In this ultimate guide, we’ll share practical, expert-backed tips for landscaping with decorative stones - helping you overcome common challenges and choose the right solution with help from our quality products and knowledgeable team. Types of Decorative Stones and Their Best Uses When it comes to landscaping with aggregates, it’s important to understand which type of decorative stone suits your space and how each material performs. While they all offer visual appeal, different stones bring different benefits - and some limitations too. Here’s a closer look at four of the most popular choices. Pebbles Naturally smooth and rounded, coloured pebbles are gentle underfoot, making them a great option for garden paths when paired with landscape fabric. They're equally effective around water features, in plant pots, or as soft-edged borders that help define different areas of your garden. Their texture adds subtle contrast, but they’re best avoided for driveways as they shift easily under pressure. Gravel and Shingle Gravel and shingle are among the most durable and cost-effective materials for outdoor spaces. Their rough surface provides grip, making them ideal for driveways and garden paths. They don’t crack or sink like other hard surfaces, and they’re also excellent for improving drainage, particularly in areas prone to waterlogging. We often recommend rainbow shingle to enhance water features with eye-catching colour. Slate Slate offers a bold, contemporary finish. Its flat, angular pieces work well in borders and around patio edges or ponds, where they bring a striking, modern aesthetic. However, slate is too sharp and brittle for driveways and may damage tyres over time. Stone Paving For those looking to create a dining or seating area, natural stone paving is a solid choice. It’s flat, durable, and available in a range of finishes to suit every garden design. Perfect for patios and entertaining outdoors. We supply a wide selection of decorative stones for gardens. Ideas, advice, and support - we’re always here to help at MB Wilkes. Design and Styling Ideas When it comes to landscaping with decorative stones, the right design choices can completely transform your garden. Here are some creative, practical ways to use stones to enhance both style and structure: Garden Zoning with Colour: Use different coloured stones to mark out distinct zones in your garden – perfect for separating a natural, wildlife-friendly area from a neat, structured space. Light and dark stones can be used to create contrast, helping to highlight your planting choices and give each section its own identity. Paths and Walkways: Pebbles or gravel make attractive, low-maintenance paths. For a more polished look, add stepping stones or edging to define the route. This not only guides foot traffic but can also give the illusion of a longer, more spacious garden. Borders: Decorative stones form clean, natural borders around flowerbeds and along paths. For a coastal-inspired feel, rounded coloured pebbles are ideal, while Cotswold cobbles create a traditional, countryside finish. Both options help contain planting while adding character. Water Features: Rainbow shingle or smooth pebbles enhance the visual appeal and sound of any water feature. Whether it's a pond, fountain, or stream, stones add colour and definition while supporting the natural look of your setup. Driveways: For a functional and stylish entrance, gravel or shingle is an affordable alternative to tarmac. Popular choices include golden shingle for a warm, traditional look, blue slate for a modern touch, or limestone for a more refined finish. We supply only the best pebbles for garden use, tailored to suit every style and purpose. Functional Benefits Landscaping with decorative stones isn’t just about looks - it offers real, long-lasting benefits too. Here are three practical reasons to consider landscaping with aggregates in your garden: Drainage: Gravel and shingle are excellent for managing excess water. If you’ve got soggy patches on your lawn, waterlogged flowerbeds, or areas near buildings prone to pooling, these materials help water drain away efficiently, protecting both plant health and property foundations. Weed Control: Decorative stones provide a natural barrier against unwanted growth. When laid over geotextile fabric, they form a strong layer that blocks sunlight and prevents weeds from taking hold, reducing the need for constant maintenance. Soil Protection: Heavy rain can wash away topsoil, especially in beds and pots. A covering of decorative stone helps anchor soil in place, reducing erosion while keeping your garden looking tidy. All practical, all simple, and all part of thoughtful, effective landscaping with decorative stones. Feature Ideas: The Rockery If you're looking for low-maintenance landscaping ideas with maximum impact, a rockery is a brilliant choice. Combining stones of different sizes with hardy alpine plants, a well-placed rockery brings texture, colour and natural structure to your garden. Choose a sunny, well-drained spot and take time to pre-arrange your rocks before planting to make sure the layout feels balanced. Plants like crocuses, tulips and dianthuses add seasonal bursts of colour and are easy to care for. With minimal upkeep and lasting visual appeal, a rockery is a timeless feature that works beautifully in gardens of all sizes. Get Expert Help Choosing the Right Decorative Stones for Your Garden Decorative stones offer style, structure and real practicality, from low maintenance surfaces to improved drainage and effective weed control. Whether you're after bold borders, a new path or a full garden refresh, landscaping with decorative stones is a smart, versatile choice. We’ve been a trusted, family-run quarry for over 60 years, supplying quality materials at competitive prices. Call us on 01258 857465 or use our contact form for expert advice tailored to your project.
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9 Apr
Your Projects Brought to Life: Before and After Using Our Gravel
Selecting the right gravel for your property can significantly affect appearance, durability, drainage and maintenance. At MB Wilkes, we specialise in supplying and installing high‑quality primary sands and gravels - from decorative shingle and chippings to robust planings and crushed stone - tailored to the unique requirements of every customer. With decades of experience serving homeowners, property managers and businesses across the UK, we understand how material choice, particle size and finish can transform driveways, pathways, patios and more. In this blog, we’ll showcase some recent projects, with images courtesy of CW Stanley who executed the work using our products. With an array of options available, our aggregates will deliver lasting results, enhancing kerb appeal while offering excellent value for money. New Driveway in Merley, Wimborne What a difference a day makes! In Merley, Wimborne, CW Stanley transformed a tired tarmac driveway into a crisp, low‑maintenance surface in just one day. After removing the existing worn surfacing and installing a durable geotextile membrane for weed control and drainage, their team laid a neat charcoal block‑paving edge before spreading our 20 mm Dorset Limestone chippings. The result is an attractive, uniform finish that enhances kerb appeal, improves water runoff and eliminates patch repairs. The customer chose Dorset Limestone chippings for their hard‑wearing quality, natural appearance and cost‑effective longevity - a perfect solution for a hassle‑free driveway upgrade. A Mega Undertaking in Poole, Dorset A mega driveway transformation in Poole, Dorset, was completed in just 1.5 days using our 20 mm Ice Blue decorative gravel, laid over a geotextile membrane to ensure excellent drainage and weed suppression. Crisp concrete kerb stones neatly define the driveway’s boundary, while a smooth asphalt parking bay provides a practical contrast. The finished surface delivers striking kerb appeal, low maintenance and long‑term durability for two neighbouring properties. By combining MB Wilkes’ premium Ice Blue chippings with CW Stanley’s efficient installation, this project achieved exceptional value, performance and a standout aesthetic in record time. A Beautiful Result in Poole, Dorset What a beautiful frontage this is now! CW Stanley completed a stunning driveway transformation this week at a property in Poole, Dorset. After removing the old, uneven gravel and preparing a stable, compacted sub‑base with a geotextile membrane for superior drainage and weed control, crisp grey block paving was installed to define the driveway’s perimeter. Our 20 mm Polar Ice decorative chippings, were laid to a uniform depth, delivering a striking, low‑maintenance finish. The work significantly improved kerb appeal while extending and boosting practical performance - all achieved in minimal time, at exceptional value. A Tasteful Finish in Colehill, Wimborne In just two days, CW Stanley completed a tasteful driveway and frontage transformation at a property in Colehill, Wimborne. After removing old paving and uneven gravel, the team installed a compacted sub‑base topped with a geotextile membrane for superior drainage and weed suppression. Concrete block‑paving edging defines the perimeter, creating a neat, professional finish. Our team supplied 20 mm Quantock Grey decorative chippings, which were laid to a consistent depth to deliver a striking, low‑maintenance surface. The result is enhanced kerb appeal, excellent durability and a practical, value‑adding upgrade. Why Should You Choose MB Wilkes? When it comes to sourcing high‑quality aggregates, MB Wilkes stands head and shoulders above the competition. As a family‑owned sand and gravel quarry based in Dorset, we combine decades of local expertise with the largest product range on the market - from decorative gravels and garden stones to specialist sands, soils and construction materials. Our team of aggregate specialists possesses unrivalled knowledge, enabling us to recommend exactly the right material for any project, whether you’re a homeowner upgrading your driveway or a national developer specifying bulk supplies. MB Wilkes’ reputation for excellence extends across councils, utility companies, sports grounds and public landscaping schemes, reflecting our ability to deliver consistently outstanding service to clients of every scale. Thanks to our strong industry relationships, we offer competitive, transparent pricing without compromising on quality - meaning you benefit from premium materials at the best value. We also make waste disposal straightforward with our inert tip facility, while our versatile fleet of tipper lorries and grab trucks ensures precise, reliable deliveries direct to your site. Above all, our commitment to exceptional customer service means clear communication, punctual delivery and meticulous attention to detail from enquiry through to completion. Whatever your aggregate requirements, MB Wilkes guarantees the highest quality products, unbeatable expertise and complete peace of mind - all delivered from the heart of Dorset. Get in Touch With the Experts Ready to transform your project? Browse MB Wilkes’ full range of decorative aggregates, garden stones, sands and soils on our website and place your order in minutes. For personalised advice, competitive quotes or any enquiries, simply give our friendly team a call on 01258 857465 or complete our quick contact form. Whether you need delivery to your doorstep or guidance choosing the perfect product, we’re here to help - offering expert support, transparent pricing and reliable service across Dorset and beyond. Don’t wait - get in touch with MB Wilkes today and discover why we’re the UK’s leading supplier of high‑quality aggregates now.
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15 May
Summer Gardening Tips and Tricks
The summer months are a busy time for gardeners, as gardening offers a great opportunity to enjoy those long, warm days and evenings. Despite most of the planting of flowers and vegetables being done earlier in the spring, there is plenty to be done over the summer. May and June are ideal times for bedding plants to be planted out, raising foliage plants, and sowing several outdoor seed varieties, including Alstroemeria, Achillea, Arabis, Canterbury Bells, Coreopsis, Erigeron, Myosotis and Sweet William. Weather can be unpredictable during these months, so during May, you want to protect more vulnerable plants with a horticultural fleece, which you can remove in June. As the threat of frost should have passed by June, it is the ideal time to plant bedding plants grown under cover either into borders or into hanging baskets and containers. Late-flowering Annuals Throughout May, you should sow late-flowering annuals such as Nasturtiums under glass. You can expect them to flower from August onwards if you sow them in early May. You may also want to sow fast-maturing annuals, like Clarkias and Calendulas. You will be able to enjoy them blooming throughout the summer, which will add an extra splash of colour to your garden. Don't forget to add some water gel crystals and slow-release fertiliser to your compost when planting. Who doesn't love a Dahlia? Use your time in May to plant Dahlia bulbs, but protect them from slugs. This will also work with your regular gardening jobs of watering, mowing and weeding. Don't forget to spruce up your window boxes too. Check that you have enough topsoil before doing this to ensure a smooth and easy process. Tidy Up June is usually a time for you to dedicate a few minutes to tidying up parts of your garden. Dead foliage should be removed from spring flowering bulbs, excluding daffodils and tulips, which should be left a little longer to die back naturally. Trim or throw away any faded plants and keep on top of your weeding, with a particular focus on your borders and beds. Install Protection Fruits bushes and trees should be inspected carefully to check for pests and diseases and treated if necessary. Soft fruit bushes, such as currants and strawberries, should be protected by a fruit cage or netting to prevent birds from eating the fruit. Carrots should be protected from carrot fly, and cabbages from caterpillar damage by covering them with protective materials. If you are keeping some plants in a greenhouse to keep them safe, they need to be kept well-ventilated during the day as extreme variations in temperature could adversely affect the fruiting of tomato plants. In addition, tapping the flowers of greenhouse tomatoes will improve pollination. Uncover Fruit and Vegetable Strawberry bushes that have been kept under glass should now be uncovered so that pollinating insects can gain access to them. Vegetables such as brussel sprouts, cabbage, celery, courgettes, cucumbers, marrows, runner and French beans that have been grown in a greenhouse should also now be planted out. Don't forget to keep them hydrated and keep the soil as moist as possible. If you have vegetables like marrows, peppers, tomatoes and courgettes, ensure that these are hardened off before you look to plant them outside. Mow Grass Regularly May is the start of the mowing season, and you will need to mow your grass more regularly and ensure that your mower blades are kept sharp. Water Regularly May through September can be hot and dry, so remember to water plants regularly to avoid wilting. To aid drainage, a layer of gravel or shingle is a great solution that also offers a touch of style and texture to your garden area! Renovate Your Garden Summer is also a great time to landscape your garden by adding some raised plant beds using sleepers or even fitting a paved section to create the perfect space for garden furniture.
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21 Aug
The ultimate guide to choosing gravel and shingle
How to Choose and Plan the Perfect Gravel Driveway Are you planning a gravel driveway but feeling overwhelmed by the choices available? You're not alone in wondering how to choose and plan the perfect gravel driveway that combines functionality with aesthetic appeal. At MB Wilkes, we've been helping homeowners navigate these decisions for over 60 years as a family-owned quarry. Our comprehensive guide will walk you through everything from material selection to design considerations, ensuring your new driveway becomes a beautiful and practical addition to your home. With our consultative approach and National Trust-approved gravel products, we'll help you deliver a driveway that perfectly suits your needs and budget. Understanding Gravel and Shingle Types Now that you're ready to explore your options, let's examine the difference between gravel and shingle and understand the various types available. Gravel particles typically start at around 5mm, whilst anything smaller is classified as sand. However, our shingle range begins at 2mm-6mm, offering you greater flexibility for different applications. Our signature light golden flint shingle showcases beautiful brown and yellow tones, making it perfect for creating warm, welcoming driveways. The difference between shingle and gravel lies primarily in size and application, with our range extending up to 40mm varieties ideal for drainage and soakaways. These natural materials come in numerous shapes, sizes, and colours, giving you tremendous versatility for your project. Different types of gravel and shingle serve specific purposes: smaller particles work brilliantly for decorative areas, whilst larger stones excel in functional drainage applications. For a deeper dive into selecting the ideal material, we've covered the pros and cons of various options in our comprehensive gravel guide, helping you understand which type suits your specific requirements. Choosing the Right Material for Your Project Here we're going to focus on matching the perfect material to your unique situation. When considering gravel vs shingle for your project, think about your space requirements and intended use. Shingle gardens often benefit from finer particles that create smooth, walkable surfaces, whilst larger gravel works excellently for vehicular access. Colour coordination plays a crucial role in your material selection. Neutral driveway materials like grey, beige, or white complement most home exteriors beautifully, blending seamlessly with existing architecture. However, if you're seeking to create a statement feature, consider our coloured options or even combine different materials for added visual interest. Quality considerations shouldn't be overlooked when making your choice. Our National Trust approval demonstrates our commitment to supplying materials that meet the highest standards for both durability and aesthetic appeal. The decision when comparing gravel vs shingle ultimately depends on your specific needs: shingle offers a more refined appearance perfect for formal settings, whilst gravel provides robust functionality for high-traffic areas. Both options deliver excellent long-term value when selected appropriately for your project's requirements. Design and Planning Considerations To learn more about creating the perfect layout, let's explore the essential planning elements for your gravel driveway. Planning a gravel driveway requires careful consideration of several key factors that will determine both its functionality and visual appeal. Consider these crucial design elements: Space and Shape Assessment: Decide between curved pathways for a softer, more natural appearance or clean, straight lines for contemporary appeal Multi-Car Requirements: Calculate width needs for side-by-side parking to eliminate daily car shuffling Visual Integration: Choose whether your driveway should serve as a focal point or blend harmoniously with surrounding landscaping Accessibility Considerations: Ensure adequate turning circles and comfortable gradients for all users Those wanting a permeable driveway design should also account for proper drainage requirements, particularly if your property experiences heavy rainfall. The natural permeability of gravel makes it an excellent choice for sustainable water management, reducing surface runoff whilst maintaining an attractive appearance. Balancing functionality with aesthetic appeal often means considering how your driveway connects with existing garden features, pathways, and architectural elements. In fact, we even have a blog that discusses how to build the perfect gravel garden – definitely worth a read. This thoughtful approach to planning a gravel driveway ensures your investment enhances your property's overall value and kerb appeal. Technical Requirements and Installation Tips Moving on to the practical aspects, proper gravel installation requires attention to specific technical details that ensure longevity and performance. Slope limitations are particularly important: we recommend avoiding loose gravel on gradients exceeding 1:10, as steeper inclines can lead to material displacement and maintenance issues. For gentle slopes that fall within acceptable limits, polythene hexagon mesh provides an excellent solution. This mesh sits approximately 40mm beneath the gravel surface, creating stability whilst maintaining the natural appearance of your driveway. Proper ground preparation forms the foundation of successful gravel installation, requiring adequate excavation, base material application, and compaction. The pallet-dragging method creates that perfectly raked finish, redistributing gravel evenly across the surface. Regular maintenance also prevents weed growth and maintains the professional appearance that makes gravel such an attractive, low-maintenance option for busy homeowners seeking both beauty and practicality. Making Your Final Decision As you approach your final choice, several factors will help you determine the best solution for your specific situation. Our consultative approach means we'll work closely with you to match products perfectly with your project requirements, ensuring optimal results. Key decision factors include: Budget Considerations: We offer cost-effective options without compromising on quality, helping you achieve excellent value Long-Term Maintenance: Gravel driveways provide brilliant low-maintenance solutions compared to alternative materials Expert Guidance: Our 60+ years of experience as one of the UK's leading landscaping suppliers ensures you receive knowledgeable recommendations The gravel vs shingle decision often comes down to your specific aesthetic preferences and functional requirements. With an extensive range including countless types of gravel and shingle, you’re assured of exceptional performance that meets your preferences and a driveway that’s properly specified and installed. Our commitment to excellent customer service means we'll guide you through every aspect of your decision, ensuring your investment delivers lasting satisfaction. Transform Your Property with Quality Gravel Planning a gravel driveway becomes straightforward with 60+ years of family expertise. As one of the UK's leading suppliers, we offer excellent customer service and competitive prices on quality materials. Whether you're deciding how to choose and plan the perfect gravel driveway or ready to order, our team provides personalised recommendations. Contact us on 01258 857465 or complete our contact form for expert guidance and current special offers.
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14 Aug
Essential Gardening Tasks for Every Season
What does your garden look like through the year? Vibrant and thriving, or a bit hit and miss? Gardening doesn’t stop just because the weather changes. Each season brings fresh challenges and new opportunities and knowing what to do, and when, makes all the difference. Picture planting vibrant summer blooms under a clear blue sky, cutting back golden leaves in autumn, or prepping frosty beds for spring growth. These aren’t just chores; they’re part of a cycle that keeps your outdoor space alive and thriving. In this guide covering the essential gardening tasks for every season, we at MB Wilkes have gathered expert, easy-to-follow seasonal gardening tips for UK gardeners. Whether it’s pruning, planting, soil care or pest control, you’ll find everything you need right here. Spring: Set the Stage for Success Spring is when everything starts to wake up again. It’s the time to literally lay the groundwork for what’s to come. So, let’s begin our deep dive into seasonal gardening tips with a look at what you need to do when spring rolls around. Sow and Plant Early spring is perfect for sowing seeds indoors and planting hardy annuals. By May and June, you can start transferring bedding plants like Alstroemeria, Sweet William, and Canterbury Bells outdoors. If you’ve been growing under cover, this is the time to move them to borders or containers. Prep and Protect Unpredictable spring weather calls for a little extra care and attention. Delicate young plants are especially vulnerable during chilly nights and sudden cold snaps, so it’s worth having some horticultural fleece on hand. It’s a simple yet highly effective way to shield plants from late frosts, especially in early May. As temperatures rise and the risk of frost fades, usually by early to mid-June, you can safely remove the fleece and let your plants enjoy the sunshine. Feed Your Soil The next of our essential gardening tasks for every season includes feeding the soil. Your plants are going to be hungry. Mix in some compost or organic fertiliser early in the season to give your garden a head start. Remember that a well-fed garden is a vibrant garden. Summer: Maintain and Make the Most of It Summer is when your garden really comes into its own, but it still needs your attention. From summer gardening tips to pest protection and lawn care, here’s what to focus on. Keep It Blooming This is prime time for sowing late-flowering annuals like Nasturtiums, Clarkias and Calendulas. You’ll get beautiful blooms into late summer, just don’t forget to add water gel crystals and slow-release fertiliser to your compost to keep everything hydrated and nourished. You can also plant Dahlia bulbs in May but be sure to protect them from slugs. And if you haven’t already, give those window boxes a tidy-up and refresh your topsoil. General Upkeep Water Regularly, Especially During Hot Spells Mow The Lawn Frequently – Sharp Blades Give Cleaner Cuts Deadhead Spent Flowers and Remove Dead Foliage to Keep Things Looking Neat Pest and Pollination Watch The last of our summer gardening tips is to keep on top of pests and ensure pollination. Cover strawberries and soft fruit bushes with netting to protect them from birds. Carrots and cabbages also need covering to avoid carrot fly and caterpillar damage. Got tomatoes in the greenhouse? Keep it well-ventilated and tap the flowers gently to improve pollination. Don’t forget to uncover strawberries kept under glass so insects can do their thing. Autumn: Prepare and Protect As temperatures drop, your garden will need a bit of TLC to keep it healthy through winter and set it up for spring. Our autumn gardening tips will help you get started. Add Decorative Touches As blooms fade, evergreen plants help maintain a lush look. For even more visual interest, try decorative garden stones like black slate or Cotswold Cobbles, as these are a brilliant way to add texture and style to bare spots in your garden. Remember that, here at MB Wilkes, we supply the best range of aggregates Dorset has to offer – perfect for borders, paths and decorative features. Soil Revival After a busy growing season, your soil will need replenishing. Mix in mulch, compost or manure to restore nutrients, and use a garden fork to work it in and avoid compacting the ground. Here’s where to focus: Beds and Borders with Exhausted Summer Plants Areas Where You Plan to Plant Again in Spring Autumn Gardening Tasks: Quick Checklist Winter is the time when everything can fall apart, and all your hard work can be undone; the preparations you make in autumn can make all the difference. With that in mind, here’s a short rundown of the seasonal gardening tips for autumn: Clear Fallen Leaves Weekly Using a Lawn Mower or Leaf Blower Bring Tender Plants Indoors Before the First Frost Turn Your Compost Heap to Speed Up Decomposition Clean Garden Tools to Prevent Rust and Disease Carryover Once you’ve done everything possible to protect your plants, garden, tools, and garden furniture, all there’s left to do is wait for winter to roll around. Winter: Rest and Rebuild Winter is quieter but still important, and this is your chance to plan, repair and improve. The seasonal gardening tips don’t stop at autumn, so here’s a few winter gardening tips to ensure your garden makes it through to spring. Protect What’s Still Growing Hardy plants can remain outside through winter with little fuss, but more sensitive varieties need a bit of extra care. Bring tender plants indoors or wrap them in horticultural fleece to shield them from frost and freezing winds. It’s also a smart move to raise pots off the ground using pot feet or bricks; this improves drainage and helps prevent waterlogging, which can be just as damaging as frost. A few small steps now can save your plants later. Tools and Maintenance One of the simplest yet most effective winter gardening tips is to clean and oil your tools. This not only extends their lifespan but ensures they're ready to go when spring rolls around. Take time now to sharpen mower blades, tighten loose screws, and inspect garden structures for signs of wear or damage. Small fixes now prevent bigger problems later. Why Choose Us? At MB Wilkes, we’ve been a family-owned sand and gravel quarry for over 60 years. From decorative aggregates and topsoil to landscaping supplies and waste services, we offer premium products at competitive prices. We’re proud to be one of the UK’s leading suppliers of landscaping materials, delivering excellent customer service every time. Whether you’re refreshing a small bed or renovating your whole garden, our team is here to help. Get Your Garden Season-Ready with Expert Tips and Quality Supplies Need advice or looking to order garden materials? You can place your order through our website. And if you have questions, call us today on 01258 857465 or reach out through our simple contact form on the website. We're always happy to help with product info, delivery options, or general gardening queries.
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6 Aug
MB Wilkes Hosts Annual Golf Day at Iford Golf Centre
MB Wilkes proudly welcomed clients and industry partners to its Annual Golf Day, held on 17th July 2025 at Iford Golf Centre. Now a highlight in the company’s social calendar, the event brought together teams from construction, engineering, and civil works for a spirited day of networking and friendly competition. The day kicked off with a hearty breakfast bap and coffee on arrival, followed by warm‑up practice on the driving range. Participants then took to the course for 18 holes of golf, with teams competing for honours. After play, a prize ceremony celebrated top performers, followed by a relaxed BBQ and drinks reception to finish the day on a high note. Participating teams: Team 1 – Viking Projects Team 2 – Morris Construction Team 3 – MKM Construction & GSJP Civil Engineering Team 4 – Quantum Civil Engineering +1 Team 5 – Quantum Civil Engineering Team 6 – Gould Groundworks & Sparks Commercial Services Team 7 – MB Wilkes & Raymond Brown Tournament highlights and winners: Individual Champion: Jason Thomas (Quantum Civil Engineering) Team Winners: Team 5 (Quantum Civil Engineering) Longest Drive: Ryan Bath (Viking Projects) Nearest the Pin: Jake Simpson (GSJP Civil Engineering) Wooden Spoon (for last place): Roger Morris (Morris Construction)   Carl Penney, Business Development Manager at MB Wilkes, commented on the event: “Our Annual Golf Day is more than just a tournament—it’s an opportunity to reinforce the strong relationships we have with our clients and peers, and to enjoy a day where business and camaraderie go hand in hand.” He added: “Congratulations to all teams and individuals who took part. We’re already looking forward to next year’s event.” MB Wilkes extends sincere thanks to all attendees, partners, and the Iford Golf Centre team for helping make this year’s event a great success.   As one of the UK’s leading suppliers of decorative aggregates, garden stones, construction materials and soils, MB Wilkes operates from its own quarry in Dorset, proudly serving customers across the South and beyond. As a family-run business, the company is committed to supporting the local community through regular events and local sponsorships that reflect its values of loyalty, service, and trust. Shop at MB Wilkes, to browse their wide range of landscaping and building materials.
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Family-Owned BusinessFamily-run business supplying quality aggregates for over 60 years.
Family-Owned Business
Family-run business supplying quality aggregates for over 60 years.
Trusted Team of Experts Our expert team of trusted experts is ready to help with all your needs.
Trusted Team of Experts
Our expert team of trusted experts is ready to help with all your needs.
Fully Equipped Fleet We provide fast local delivery with tipper trucks and grab lorries.
Fully Equipped Fleet
We provide fast local delivery with tipper trucks and grab lorries.
Superb Range of Aggregates Small load aggregate collections available directly from our quarry.
Superb Range of Aggregates
Small load aggregate collections available directly from our quarry.

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