9 Sep

How to get your garden ready for autumn

So you can continue to get the most out of your garden this autumn, it needs some much needed TLC after the busy summer months. Read on for some ideas on how to prepare your outside space for autumn, from adding decorative garden stones to revitalising your soil with fertilizer.

Garden stones add year-round interest

As the cold weather creeps in, the beautiful bright colours of summer slowly fade to leave bare branches and empty flower beds. Evergreen plants help to keep your garden green during the winter but to help break up the uniformity, try adding different decorative garden stones to your garden, such as the beautiful Cotswold Cobbles or classic black slate, and ensure your garden stays beautiful and interesting all year round.

Clean your garden patio slabs

With BBQs and garden parties on hold until the warmer months, now is the perfect time to give your garden patio slabs a thorough clean by either pressure washing or a good old fashion scrub with an appropriate cleaner. While you’re out there with all the tools, give your patio furniture a thorough clean too.

Cut back overgrown garden plants

Take back control over your garden by cutting back trees and shrubs that have thrived during the summer. Not only will this help keep your garden tidy over the winter but will encourage regrowth next year. While you’re doing this, look for signs of disease on your perennials, such as spotty leaves or rotting stems, and apply the appropriate treatment.

Improve the quality of your soil

Over the summer, plants soak up all the goodness from the soil to help them grow so come autumn, the soil’s nutrients can be seriously depleted. Therefore, now is an ideal time to add mulch, manure and compost to your existing soil to enhance its quality over the coming months, ready for new growth in the spring. Make sure you cover all areas where you’d like regrowth (avoiding covering any plants that are left) and mix the soil and fertiliser well with a garden fork.

 From our family run quarry in the heart of Dorset, MB Wilkes is a leading supplier of garden soil, landscaping products and garden stones. Browse our full collection of garden supplies online or call our team today on 01258 857465 for more information on any of our products.

More general

22 Aug
Announcing the arrival of our new delivery trucks
We are very proud to announce brand new trucks have joined our fleet of delivery vehicles, increasing our capacity to deliver our wide selection of aggregates and other building materials across the Dorset area. Proudly displaying the blue and yellow colours and logo of MB Wilkes, as well as a personalised number plate, the brilliant new trucks are capable of carrying large loads and have full tipping capabilities for quick and efficient delivery. Dorset’s leading supplier of aggregates and building materials A family owned sand and gravel quarry, MB Wilkes was established over 50 years ago in 1964 and have since become one of Dorset’s leading suppliers of aggregate and building materials thanks to our quality products and outstanding customer service. From driveway gravel and decorative garden stones to specialist sand and topsoil, our huge array of quality products at competitive prices have enabled us to build strong relationships with a diverse range of clients in the construction industry, including local councils, national developers, utility companies and even private homeowners.   An extensive product range The great news for our customers is that our new delivery trucks will allow us to deliver even more of our top-quality products to our clients around Dorset, ensuring fast delivery, often within 48 hours of your order, by one of our friendly and knowledgeable drivers. If you require a product urgently, please contact our team here at MB Wilkes on 01258 857465 and we’ll try our very best to help you. Our extensive product list includes: Building materials Driveway gravel Landscape supplies Specialist sands Decorative stones Paving slabs Soils and topsoil Sleepers and oak planks So, if you’re looking for the highest standard aggregates or building materials at competitive prices in Dorset, please don’t hesitate to contact the experts at MB Wilkes today on 01258 857465.    
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1 Aug
Using decorative stones in your gardens
Improve your garden's drainage Decorative stones are an excellent yet discrete way to improve the drainage of your garden and protect your property from the risks associated with excess water. We find shingle or gravel is an excellent choice for this purpose, as it allows the water to trickle away easily while maintaining an attractive look. Why not add some flowerpots on the gravel in complementary colours to add a splash of colour? Help stop the weeds A layer of decorative stones, such as our striking Gabion Stone or classic Cotswold Cobbles, helps prevent those pesky weeds from sticking their heads up through your perfectly pruned flower beds. Install a layer of woven geotextile black fabric on top of your soil before adding your decorative stones to really take back control over unwanted plants. Create a statement driveway Using decorative stone for your driveway is an affordable alternative to tarmac and it provides your home with a more attractive, colourful entrance. At MB Wilkes, we stock a wide range of different decorative stones which make for excellent driveways, including our golden shingle range which offer a traditional style or, for something a bit different, opt for our luxurious limestone or elegant Blue Slate. Build a show-stopping rockery A rockery is a beautiful feature for any English garden, adding structure, style and interest. Best of all, they’re really easy to create. All you need to do is choose the perfect spot, preferably somewhere with lots of light, clear your chosen site of weeds and debris and then comes the really exciting part, begin building your rockery using a variety of your favourite flowers, shrubs and, of course, rocks (we recommend laying out everything before you plant to make sure you like the way it looks).  Leading suppliers of aggregates and building materials in Dorset from our family owned sand and gravel quarry, MB Wilkes is your number one stop for all your decorative stone needs. To learn more about our range of quality products, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with our friendly team today on 01258 857465.
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8 Jul
3 tips for the perfect outdoor dining space
When the sun is shining on long summer days, there’s nothing quite as enjoyable as a spot of al fresco dining. To really make the most of the opportunity, follow our top tips for creating the perfect outdoor dining experience. Create a solid base with paving slabs The key to any relaxing outdoor dining experience is an even, level base on which to place your table and chairs (we’ve all experienced the infuriating wonky, wobbly table). Paving slabs, large blocks of stone, are not only a great option for ensuring your dining table stays stationary, but they also look beautiful too, blending in seamlessly with the natural surroundings of your garden. Our extensive range of paving slabs at MB Wilkes include a variety of different materials and colours such as classic thin brown sandstone. Add interest to your garden Planting a variety of different flowers and foliage is a wonderful way to create a stunning backdrop to your outdoor dining area. Choose the plants carefully so that they reflect the style and mood of the garden you are trying to create. For instance, rows of pretty flowers in beds lined with large white pebbles create lovely neat lines for an ordered garden, whereas a scattering of wildflowers in a raised bed made from chunky railway sleepers suits a county theme. What’s more, you’ll be helping the local wildlife by providing a source of food and shelter. Light up your garden at night To ensure your al fresco dining experience doesn’t get cut short when the sun slips behind the horizon, consider installing lighting in your garden. From solar powered lanterns hidden between flowerpots, to a string of delicate fairy lights floating on a garden wall, the soft glow of outdoor lighting is not only practical but produces a beautifully warm and welcoming atmosphere.  Based in Dorset, MB Wilkes is among the UK’s leading supplier of a range of decorative stones, paving slabs, sands and gravel. For more information about any of our products and services, please get in touch with our friendly team today on 01258 857465.  
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Most Recent Stories

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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27 Mar
How to use decorative stones in your garden
Decorative stone is a term that encompasses a wide range of materials, including gravel, pebbles, and slate. They are a fantastic way to add interest and texture to your garden. Each type has its own benefits. Therefore, you should consider these when deciding which decorative stone to use in your garden. In this blog, our landscaping experts at MB Wilkes, Dorset’s leading supplier of decorative stones, share a breakdown of each type of decorative stone and what they’re best used for. Pebbles Smooth and round pebbles are formed when a stone's rough edges are slowly eroded by running water. As such, they will look perfectly at home as part of a garden water feature. We recommend using colourful pebbles like our 14-20mm Scottish pebbles for an authentic feel.  Due to their rounded surface being safe to walk on barefoot, these decorative stones make good garden pathways, and when combined with landscape fabrics like our woven geotextile, you can prevent weeds from growing underneath.  Pebbles can help prevent soil degradation and eroding too, making them great to enhance the top of potted plants. Pebbles and decorative stones also make for beautiful and natural borders for flower beds.  If you are laying a pathway, contrasting coloured pebbles in the garden is a fantastic way to make a style statement all across your garden. Additionally, you could also use different colours to differentiate the various sections of your garden from each other. Avoid using pebbles on driveways because they are so smooth they will move and shift under the heavy weight of a vehicle. This will cause the driveway to deteriorate quickly. Slate Slate is a fine-grained, metamorphic rock that splits easily into thin slabs.  Much sharper and larger than pebbles, slate is perfect for decorating borders. For example, our black slate would make for a dramatic and modern accent to a path, pond, or patio.  Slate also makes for poor driveway material, as there is always the chance that a sharp piece could slice open your tyre. It is also a relatively brittle material, so putting it under constant stress from heavy cars will cause it to crumble over time. This will lead to the build-up of dust, which could inhibit drainage.  Stone Paving Decorative stones aren't just limited to pebbles and rocks. Natural stone paving is the perfect material for creating gorgeous and perfectly flat patios where you and your loved ones can enjoy many BBQs and garden parties together. We stock lots of different paving slabs in a range of colours, textures and finishes, so you're sure to find one to suit your style.  Gravel & Shingle Gravel is made up of loose rock fragments.  Gravel and shingle are grippy, durable stones, making them excellent choices for driveways and paths. In fact, they are one of the cheapest driveway options available. Outside of filling in the uneven surface now and then, driveway gravel is largely maintenance-free and has no chance of cracking or sinking like asphalt or concrete.  Choose a gravel like our golden shingle for a classic driveway look or opt for something a bit different with our luxurious limestone or elegant blue slate. Gravel and shingle are very good at draining water. If your garden is habitually waterlogged and causing your plants and flowers to suffer, installing a French drain using gravel or shingle will help the water drain harmlessly away. Shingle will also work in any water feature you might have, enhancing the sound of the water falling. Opting for our rainbow shingle will also boost its overall appearance too. Premium decorative stones from M B Wilkes Whether you're looking to build a rustic path or driveway, improve drainage, or simply beautify your garden, our decorative stones offer limitless possibilities. Browse our wide range of premium decorative stones to find the perfect type for your garden. You'll be spoilt for choice at MB Wilkes, as our range of landscape materials, pebbles and decorative stones is the best in Dorset.  If you have any questions about our products, don't hesitate to get in touch - contact us online or call us on 01258 857465.
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