Lockdown saw three million of us decide to take up gardening
GARDEN centres in Wales open on March 22 for the first time since December, following the latest Welsh Government’s announcement on lockdown restrictions.
The Horticultural Trades Association found that almost three million people in the UK had taken up gardening in 2020, largely due to lockdown.
According to a report commissioned by National Gardens Scheme, gardening is linked to stress reduction and can be beneficial for your mental health.
During lockdown Marie Threlfall, 31, found gardening a calming experience and enjoyed decorating her outdoor space.
“When the shops re-open I’m going to invest in plants that last long term and will flourish naturally in season next year.
“I want to add more colour to the garden and give the space a mixed cultural experience,” said Marie.
Staff at Pugh’s Garden Village in Radyr are eagerly preparing for re-opening. The owner, Nicola Pugh said she was delighted to be opening her doors on March 22.
“We are ready and waiting and have been working hard to ensure safe shopping for all our wonderful customers and growing a selection of beautiful plants locally at our nurseries to ensure that our benches are full to welcome gardeners back to our centre,” she added.
Staff at The Dutch Garden Centre, located in Pontprennau, are “grateful” to be able to open on Monday after a long lockdown.
In England, garden centres have been open throughout lockdown. Prior to Friday’s announcement, questions were raised by owners of garden centres in Wales on why they couldn’t open sooner.
Following the Welsh Government’s Friday announcement the HTA said: “This is the news the industry has been waiting for. We are delighted the Welsh Government recognised that garden centres provide enhanced safe retailing with light, airy and outdoor spaces.
“The many benefit of plants, gardening and nature are well documented, and this decision means that people in Wales can once again easily access everything they need to maximise those benefits as we can all start looking forward to a happier spring.”
