Maximizing Profits: The Most Popular Plants for Garden Centres in 2024
As a garden centre owner, staying ahead of trends and offering the plants that customers are most eager to buy can significantly boost your sales and overall business success. In 2024, certain plant varieties are expected to dominate the market, driven by consumer preferences for beauty, sustainability, and ease of care. Here’s a guide to the most popular plants you should stock to maximise your profits this year.
1. Native Plants
Native plants are becoming increasingly popular as more people recognise their benefits for local ecosystems. These plants are adapted to the local climate and soil, making them easier to care for and more likely to thrive. Additionally, native plants attract and support local wildlife, including pollinators like bees and butterflies, which is a significant selling point for environmentally conscious customers.
Examples:
- Foxglove (Digitalis purpurea): Known for its striking bell-shaped flowers, foxglove is a favourite among gardeners looking to attract bees.
- Bluebells (Hyacinthoides non-scripta): With their beautiful blue hues and ability to form dense carpets, bluebells are a woodland garden staple.
2. Perennials
Perennials continue to be a favourite due to their longevity and the value they offer. Gardeners appreciate plants that return year after year, providing reliable colour and structure to their gardens with less effort.
Examples:
- Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia): Valued for its fragrant flowers and foliage, lavender is perfect for creating relaxing garden spaces.
- Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea): Known for its vibrant flowers and medicinal properties, echinacea is both beautiful and functional.
3. Edible Plants
With the rise in home gardening and interest in sustainable living, edible plants are increasingly sought after. Garden centres can attract a wide range of customers by offering a variety of fruit, vegetable, and herb plants.
Examples:
- Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum): A garden staple, tomatoes are popular for their versatility and ease of growth.
- Basil (Ocimum basilicum): This fragrant herb is a favourite for its culinary uses and ability to thrive in containers.
4. Succulents and Cacti
Succulents and cacti continue to be trendy, particularly among younger gardeners and those looking for low-maintenance options. Their unique shapes and drought tolerance make them perfect for modern, stylish indoor and outdoor gardens.
Examples:
- Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis miller): Known for its medicinal properties, aloe vera is easy to care for and attractive.
- Echeveria: With its rosette shape and variety of colours, echeveria is a popular choice for both indoor and outdoor arrangements.
5. Climbing Plants
Climbing plants are great for adding vertical interest to gardens, making them ideal for small spaces. They can also provide privacy and shade, which are appealing features for many gardeners.
Examples:
- Clematis: Known for their stunning flowers, clematis are a versatile choice for any garden.
- Honeysuckle (Lonicera periclymenum): This fragrant climber is perfect for attracting wildlife and adding a natural feel to gardens.
6. Houseplants
The houseplant trend shows no signs of slowing down. Offering a range of attractive and easy-to-care-for houseplants can draw in customers looking to green their indoor spaces.
Examples:
- Monstera Deliciosa: Popular for its dramatic, split leaves, monstera is a staple in many homes.
- Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum): Known for its air-purifying qualities and ease of care, the spider plant is a perennial favourite.
Tips for Garden Centres
1. Create Attractive Displays
Beautiful, well-organised displays can significantly impact sales. Group plants by type, care requirements, or colour to inspire customers and make it easier for them to find what they need.
2. Provide Informative Signage
Educate your customers with informative signs that offer care tips and interesting facts about the plants. This not only helps customers make informed decisions but also enhances their shopping experience.
3. Host Workshops and Events
Engage your community by hosting workshops on planting, care, and garden design. Events like these can attract new customers and build loyalty among existing ones.
4. Offer Loyalty Programs
Reward repeat customers with loyalty programs that offer discounts, early access to new stock, or exclusive events. This can encourage customers to return and make more purchases.
By focusing on these popular plant varieties and implementing effective sales strategies, your garden centre can thrive in 2024. Stay tuned to trends, listen to your customers, and continuously adapt to meet their needs.
Contact Us: For more information on our plant offerings and how we can help you stock your garden centre with the best varieties, please contact us at
0800 987 5201 or email
enquiries@ukwholesaleplants.co.uk.



