After a brilliant spring, the recent stretch of hot, dry weather across much of the UK is starting to take its toll - not just on plants, but on garden centres too.

I’ve spoken to a lot of clients and candidates in the past couple of weeks, and the mood’s definitely shifted. What looked like a standout year is starting to feel like a slog. The soil’s like dust, the plants are thirsty, and customers are getting cautious.

Too Hot, Too Dry

For retailers, it means more time, more water, and more staff just to keep things looking saleable. Displays need constant attention. Staff are flat out trying to keep stock alive - and if hosepipe bans kick in, it’s only going to get harder.

Customers Are Hesitating

The interest is still there - people want to buy, they want to plant - but many are pressing pause. And honestly, who can blame them? Spending money on plants only to watch them crisp up in the heat isn’t exactly appealing.

That hesitation is already starting to show in the numbers. After a strong run through April and May, July’s looking tougher than expected.

So What Can We Do?

We can’t change the weather, but we can respond:

• Give good advice: Tips on mulching, early-morning watering, and choosing drought-tolerant varieties go a long way.

• Curate with care: Rotating displays, grouping tougher plants together - it all helps with confidence and presentation.

• Stay visible: Customers may not be rushing in, but now’s the time to keep the conversation going online and in-store.

Still Time to Turn Things Around

Yes, it’s been a tough few weeks - but a single downpour could flip the mood overnight. And let’s be honest: it’s the UK. The rain will come.

There’s still a lot of season left. The key now is keeping momentum, staying flexible, and helping customers feel confident planting in the heat.

If you’re feeling the pressure, you’re not alone. Everyone’s talking about it. Here’s hoping for some rain - soon - for the sake of the plants and the people

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