HTA group chair has noticed a ‘hardening of attitudes from garden centers’ reducing their range as a reaction to a decrease in sales.

 Garden centers focusing on quick and easy aesthetics in their range. Will George said ‘It was very good early on and very poor latterly but has balanced out, the same as last year.’

He added: ‘Those nurseries supplying garden centers didn't do so well and we feel garden centers are being over-cautious and going for instant stuff, which is fine, but doesn't give people the choice.’

In 2015 it’s expected the industry will see a reduction in free stock.

He also noted an increase in Internet sales for the more unusual varieties of plants. Nurseries enjoying success are those with a diverse client portfolio, landscapers, The National Trust etc.