The exceptionally good weather in April obviously inspired consumers to give their garden a spring makeover. With a late Easter and an extra bank holiday there was plenty of time to browse garden centres for new acquisitions to enjoy the summery temperatures outside. Sales went up 25% for Garden Centres compared to last year’s April.

Current figures from the HTA Garden Retail Monitor show that although May couldn’t keep up with the sales one month earlier, year-to-date sales on plants and garden products are still up 21%.

Andrew Maxted, HTA director of marketing and communications, reckons:

"With the continuing pressure on consumer spending, the trend to retreat to the garden and grow your own, coupled with favourable early season weather, has lifted the industry this year.”

David Hibbert, joint MD of Stax Trade Centres, confirms the trend:

“The sales on garden products at all four Stax branches during April were up considerably compared to last year’s, with garden furniture contributing significantly to the numbers. In 3 branches sales were up over 30%, with Bristol soaring by a remarkable 39%. May sales, although not quite as high as the April ones, are still staying strong.”