Gardening is a popular pastime in many countries, and the United Kingdom is no exception. A quick look at some statistics shows just how popular gardening is in the UK. It’s estimated that nearly 27 million people (~42%) of adults in the UK participate in some form of gardening (source).
Whether you’re a beginner or an expert green thumb, there are plenty of reasons to get involved in UK gardening. Keep reading to learn more!
What Percentage of United Kingdom (UK) Households Have a Vegetable or Flower Garden?
It is estimated that 87% of households in the United Kingdom have a garden defined as an outdoor space with grass, trees, and other plants (source). That number comes from the Office for National Statistics which found that 1 in 8 households didn’t have a garden so 7 in 8 (87.5%) did.
Of those that had a garden, 28% have a vegetable garden in addition to grass (source).
This figure has been stable for many years, even though fewer people now live in rural areas where gardens are more common.
Gardening is a popular leisure activity in the UK and many people see it as a way to relax and connect with nature. It can also be a great way to get some exercise and fresh air. Growing your food is also becoming increasingly popular, as people seek to reduce their reliance on supermarkets.
Why Is Gardening Popular in The UK?
There are many reasons why gardening is so popular in the UK. For some, it is a way to relax and unwind after a long day at work. Others enjoy the satisfaction of watching their plants grow and bloom. And for many, it is a way to connect with nature and get some fresh air.
What Percentage of The UK Population Are Gardeners?
The percentage of the UK population that are gardeners has remained fairly stable over the years, sitting at around 42%. This number comes from a 2002 study by Richard Bisgrove and Paul Hadley for the Centre for Horticulture and Landscape (source).
How Many People in The UK Don’t Have Gardens?
1 in 8 Households in the UK doesn’t have a garden or access to a shared garden (source).
Do Men or Women Typically Do the Gardening in The UK?
Typically, women do gardening in the UK. In fact, according to a study by Digital Strategy Consulting on the Gardening market in the UK, nearly 57% of all gardeners in the UK are women, and the majority of these women are over 55 years old (source)
What Is the Average Age of A UK Gardener?
The average age of a UK gardener is 55 years old, according to a study by Digital Strategy Consulting (source). This is likely because gardening is seen as a more leisurely activity that people often take up later in life.
Is Gardening in The UK Growing or Declining?
Gardening in the UK appears to be growing in popularity, even though the number of people living in rural areas is declining. This is likely because people are increasingly interested in growing their food and connecting with nature.
How Big Is the Gardening Market in The UK?
The gardening market in the UK is worth an estimated £28.2 billion in 2019, according to the Horticultural Trades Association (HTA) Oxford Economics report (source). This figure includes both amateur and professional gardeners and covers all aspects of gardening including plants, tools, equipment, clothing, and books.
The gardening market has been growing steadily in recent years thanks to increased interest in home gardens and outdoor living spaces. The popularity of garden shows on TV has also helped to drive demand for gardening products and services.
How Much Do UK Gardeners Spend on Gardening Each Year?
UK Gardeners spend about 7.5 billion pounds a year on garden goods, and about 2.4 billion is spent on professional gardeners. This comes from a 2018 Report for The Ornamental Horticulture Round Table Group on The Economic Impact of Ornamental Horticulture and Landscaping in The Uk (source).
What are the Most Common Vegetables Grown by UK Gardeners?
The most popular vegetables grown by UK gardeners (from most to least) are potatoes, carrots, onions, new potatoes, peas, garlic, red onions, red peppers, spring peppers, and tomatoes (source). This is likely because these vegetables are relatively easy to grow and can be used in a variety of dishes.
What are the Most Common Flowers Grown by UK Gardeners?
The most popular flowers grown by UK gardeners (from most to least) are roses, lilies, freesia, and tulips (source).
Other Statistics & Facts About Gardening in The UK
- 15% of gardeners in the UK have garden gnomes (source)
- 12% have garden fire pits
- 11% have garden furniture
- 5% have hot tubs in the garden
Conclusion
Gardening is a popular pastime in the UK, with 42% of the population claiming to be gardeners. It is typically something that women over 55 years old do, and it is growing in popularity even though the number of people living in rural areas is declining. The gardening market is worth an estimated £28.2 billion, and UK gardeners spend about 7.5 billion pounds a year on garden goods. The most popular vegetables grown by UK gardeners are potatoes, carrots, onions, and new potatoes. The most popular flowers grown by UK gardeners are roses, lilies, freesia, and tulips.
Hi, I’m John Stephens, chief editor and writer for Totalgardener.com. I’ve been gardening and raising animals for over 15 years starting with a small backyard plot in Northern Virginia where I grew corn, potatoes, squash, and using a high mulch technique called the Ruth Stout Method. I also raised ducks and small mammals for meat and eggs in a movable pen similar to the ones used by Joel Salatin. I later moved to Colorado where I experimented with growing greens using aquaponics inside. I eventually added a microgreens setup and home sprouting operation. I’m excited to share everything I’ve learned plus more from the other local gardening and animal raising experts I know.
