Hint of sun takes people to garden centres

16:03:20 3rd March 2010

The recent signs that the sun is trying to break through and spring is on the horizon has led to a spark in the number of visitors to garden centres in the south-east of England.

According to the Norwich Evening News, a large number of green-fingered individuals were keen to make early inroads to ensuring their outdoor space was looking good for the upcoming summer months.

Among the items that were proving particularly popular were fruit and vegetable seeds, alongside plants including shrubs and primroses.

Sam Bennett, of Taverham Nursery Centre, told the publication: "We have certainly been very busy. A lot of people have started thinking about planting gardens and are buying things like seeds and potatoes."

Paul Noble, garden centre manager for Highway Garden and Leisure at Framingham Pigot, added: "There are a few more people about buying plants. People are starting to get their gardens organised."

The primrose is native to Europe and predominantly produces flowers that vary in colour from a deep yellow to a pale cream to pink and white.