April ‘resounding success’ for garden centres with seeds and bulbs leading growth

The Garden Centre Association’s (GCA) Barometer of Trade (BoT) shows April was a ‘resounding success’ for members – despite a slight year-on-year dip in sales.

The standout performer for the month was seeds & bulbs, which topped the category chart with an increase of +6.11%, closely followed by clothing (+5.92%) and catering (+4.55%).

Peter Burks, GCA CEO, says: “Despite the fall of almost 2% in overall sales this April, compared to April 2025, this is actually a resounding success when you acknowledge that last April was 26.65% up against April 2024.

“The weather has continued to be very variable and our garden centre members’ trading patterns have reflected that, with some very strong days, but also some poor ones. As expected, it is the gardening side that is seeing the most significant shortfalls, but it’s great to see that catering operations are still attracting customers in and growing their category. It’s also good to hear May started well and we’ve the promise of warm weather on its way too.”

The fourth category measured by the BoT that recorded positively was food hall/farm shop. It continued its steady performance showing a small uplift (+0.20%).

Those categories that were down in April 2026 when compared to 2025 include pets & aquatics (-0.60%), gifts (-1.60%), furniture & BBQ (-1.73%), garden sundries (-3.38%), houseplants (-3.52%), outdoor plants (-4.73%) and hard landscaping (-7.50%).

The GCA’s BoT reports are compiled using actual sales figures and provide an up-to-date trading position statement. They are made available mid-month following the end of the prior month after all member garden centres have submitted their results.

The BoT allows members to compare their trading positions with other centres.

The GCA represents more than 200 garden centres nationwide.

For more information:
Garden Centre Association
Tel.: 01244 952170
[email protected]
gca.org.uk