A garden centre is a type of retailer that sells products related to gardens such as plants, compost, fertilizers, tools and landscaping products such as statues, furniture and garden ornaments. Some also sell pet related products and small pets such as guinea pigs, rabbits, fish and mice.

The UK has a mix of small businesses and national or regional chains. Some of the best known garden centre chains in the UK are Notcutts, Hillier and Wyevale. The DIY chains B&Q and Homebase are also known for their garden centres. Some open air attractions (eg, National Trust properties, the RHS Garden, Wisley, Westonbirt Arboretum) also run small garden centres as additional sources of revenue or to discourage the unofficial taking of plant cuttings.

The centres usually obtain their plant supplies from nurseries, either as part of an integrated supply chain or from specialist wholesalers.

The peak business seasons in the UK are spring (March to June) and autumn (September and October).

External links

• The British Library - finding information on the horticulture industry