Gardeningexpress.co.uk sees increase in sales of fruit trees and unusual varieties, such as Japanese maples, fuelled by consumers’ desire for a more sustainable lifestyle, as well as something unique in the garden.

The business, one of the UK’s largest online garden centres, reported that ‘grow your own’ fruit trees, has been one of its best sellers over the past few weeks, with customers snapping up the pear, cherry, plum and apple varieties, offered at £24.99.

Founder Chris Bonnett attributes this increase in sales to a growing interest in grow your own and customers striving for a more sustainable lifestyle. He explained: “At the moment, trends across the board point towards living an environmentally-friendly, sustainable lifestyle, which is definitely reflected in the popularity of the fruit trees, in particular. Customers are looking at growing their own organic fruit and veg, free of harmful chemicals and, when the trees are delivered right to your door, there’s little reason not to!”

Other best sellers in recent weeks include an Acer Japanese Maple Tree for £19.95, large Prunus tribola (double flowering cherry) for £29.95, Magnolia Sunsation (£19.99) – a tulip tree with golden brush flowers, which is originally from the USA and is hard to find in the UK, and Hibiscus chiffon tri colour, which boasts multi-coloured ruffled double flowers, with three shades in one plant.

Of the boost in ppopularity of unusual trees, Mr Bonnett said: “Some of the other best sellers – particularly the Japanese maple tree – show that homeowners are opting for unique spins on traditional British gardens, particularly when it comes to the bolder and more garish colours.”