A trip to the garden centre is more than just a visit for plant enthusiasts; it can be a great day out for all the family. Many of the larger garden centres have cafes offering snacks all day, children’s play areas and pet and aquatic displays.
Garden centres are usually open 7 days a week and can be a great place to meet up with friends for a coffee and a browse around the displays.A garden centre visit can also be a fun educational experience for children – teaching them how things grow and the beauty of plants. And don’t forget Santa is likely to be at the garden centre at Christmas.
Value for Money
Larger garden centres and DIY stores with a garden centre have greater buying power so are able to sell plants at reasonable prices. In these days of competitor retailing most garden centres now offer promotions and discounts. The famous BOGOF (buy one get one free) offer can be found on many seasonal plants, particularly summer bedding or bulbs.
Other promotional benefits some garden centres offer include:
All Under One Roof
The advantage of visiting a garden centre is that you can get everything you need in one shop: plants, seeds, bulbs, tools, machinery, furniture and plant and garden care products. These are only the basics. Many garden centres sell pets and pet food, fish, cut flowers, books, greetings cards and a variety of giftware.Garden centres also offer several ‘bolt-on’ services to attract customers, such as garden design, planting advice and tool and machinery hire. A good garden centre will have expertly trained staff available to advise on any gardening issues customers may have.
You’ll often find a notice board giving information on local activities and clubs in your area.
A good garden centre will have disabled facilities and access.
Quality and Display
Garden centres usually present some fantastic displays of plants, patios, paving and garden buildings, to give customers plenty of inspirational ideas. Many an hour can be spent wandering and making notes and plans for your dream garden.
A quality garden centre will be a member of the Garden Centre Association, which exists to promote high standards of quality and good business practice. Member garden centres are inspected annually and are given the award based on their customer service and quality levels.
Working at a Garden Centre
What better way to improve your gardening knowledge and hopefully get discounts on plants and accessories than to work at a garden centre? Whether full or part time, you’ll meet a variety of people with a similar interest to your own. If you’re thinking of studying a gardening course this is an excellent way to gain some work experience. Or you might just want to earn a little extra cash doing something you love.
So next time you’re stuck for a day out plan a trip to the garden centre – there’ll be something for everyone.
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