West Sussex flower business to close after 30 years
A family-run flower business, in West Chiltington, is to close after three decades of serving the local community.
The team behind Sussex Roses (Nine Gables Nursery) took to social media to share the news that their landlord is planning to sell the site, on Southlands Lane.
The wholesale florist will close at the end of 2026.
The family said it was not a decision they wanted to make, adding that it has been ‘our family business for the past 30 years’.
"We are of course devastated to bring you all this news,” an Instagram post read.
The family confirmed that they will continue at Steyning Farmers Market until October 3, which will be their final market there.
They will also remain at Stable Antiques in Storrington until November, although the exact date is still to be confirmed.
The business's online shop and order books will remain open for the next few months, with customers told that further details about the closure will be announced in due course.
However, the family confirmed that they ‘will not be doing Christmas this year’.
Wedding customers have also been given assurances.
The post states: “All 2026 weddings remain unaffected and all 2027 couples have now been contacted.”
The family also plans to hold open days before the business closes, with stock, wedding equipment and growing equipment available to buy. Some items will also be offered free for collection.
Dates for the open days will be announced shortly.
The owners ended by thanking customers for their support over the past three decades, saying: “We couldn't have got this far without each and everyone of you.”
The post was signed: “With love, Paul, Cathy and Jess.”
Nine Gables Nursery was established in May 1996, originally based in Thakeham at the Chesswood site, on the old site for Thakeham Roses.
In 1998, the business acquired land and glasshouses in West Chiltington, with both sites run simultaneously.
In 2001, Nine Gables Nursery completed its transition to West Chiltington and fully relocated to the site, becoming more commonly known as Sussex Roses.
The business has an acre of glass consisting of two separate glasshouses, as well as more than an acre of outside land.
It has traditionally specialised in British-grown cut roses, but in more recent years expanded its range to include other popular cut flowers, foliage and herbs.
The business describes itself as one of the last growers of British cut roses, with its flowers supplied to florists, brides and customers.
Find out more at: https://www.notgrowninholland.co.uk/about-us.html