Garden landscaping costs £3.9 billion says report

Brits will spend about £3.9 billion on garden improvements this year according to a report from HSBC.
The bank’s annual garden survey shows a boost in garden landscaping and maintenance thanks to the host of parties to be held during the summer months to celebrate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee and the Olympics.

“2012 is set to be a memorable year with many households holding garden parties,” Peter Dockar, Head of Mortgages at HSBC, said.
“Britain has traditionally had a love affair with gardens but with households facing financial pressures, people have to make difficult decisions about where to spend their cash.”

The survey found each household has a budget of just £185 for the garden this year.
But there is a way to get around financial constraints and improve the look of the garden without breaking the budget.
New plants, a piece of outdoor furniture or a general tidy of the space can do wonders to improve the look of a garden.

“Budget for non-essential items has gone down in favour of general improvements, including landscape projects,” Mr Dockar said.
“Improving the general outlook of the garden can not only boost quality of life but also help to increase property value.”

Fruit and vegetable gardens are also a popular inclusion with 38 per cent of households already growing their own food.
It is estimated that Brits will spend an average of 95 days in the garden this year, including three days a week during the summer.
 

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• gardening
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• household spending
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• landscaping