Released on April 17, the figures show sales of barbecue and furniture were up 102.28% compared to March 2013, which was badly affected by a severe cold spell.

GCA chairman Will Armitage believes this spring’s fine weather was a major influence. “It has certainly had an impact on sales at our member centres as lots of gardeners got back out into their gardens”, he said. “This is also the time of year when many of us inspect our garden furniture or barbecue ahead of the season ahead and realise that it needs replacing.

Other good performers during the month were outdoor plants sales (+123.80%), hard landscaping (+114.39%), garden sundries (+82.05%) and seeds and bulbs (+43.38%).

The GCA’s figures are compiled using actual sales figures and provide an up-to-date trading position statement. They are made available mid-month following the end of the prior month after all member garden centres have submitted their results. The reports allow members to compare their trading positions with other centres.

William Blake, manager at St Peters Garden Centre in Worcestershire, said: “We are really pleased with how our furniture and barbecue sales have performed during March.

“After a really difficult February, due to the impact of the flooding in the surrounding area, it is great to see people are confident enough to invest in high ticket value items. We spent a lot of time last year making sure we had good range of furniture for this year, based on both quality and value, and that hard work seems to be paying off.