For the first time in its history, the RHS Chelsea Flower Show went virtual this May, due to the physical show being cancelled because of the Covid-19 pandemic.

As coverage on the virtual show bloomed throughout the week, the UK’s largest price and product comparison site has reported a huge spike in gardening-related searches.

PriceRunner has seen a surge in Brits shopping online for gardening tools and equipment, with data indicating the virtual show has motivated the nation to get mowing, sowing and growing.

Usually taking place in the grounds of Royal Chelsea Hospital, the event was moved online for 2020, with exclusive virtual gardening tours and demonstrations. Hundreds of exhibitors, designers, and TV gardening icons all helped to bring the magic of the show to life - from the likes of Monty Don to Alan Titchmarsh.

According to the latest figures, 88% of UK households* having access to private outdoor space, and for many these have become a vital haven during lockdown. Soaring searches indicate that the virtual show has spurred many of us into action to make the most of our gardens.

Consumer expert for PriceRunner UK, Anna Lavfors said: “The celebration of all things gardening at RHS Chelsea Flower Show is a key calendar event for gardeners, not just in the UK, but around the world. As this years’ show moved to a virtual platform, exclusive footage has been shared of gardens at home, rather than show gardens, filling our screens with, perhaps, more achievable colour and inspiration."

Since lockdown began, many of us have spent a lot more time at home than we usually do this time of year. That means being confined to your house, even during evenings and weekends. It seems that has led to many rediscovering their garden, patio, or balcony.

What we can see is that right now, many are seizing the moment to make the most of gardens. As virtual Chelsea became the talking point of the week it acted as further inspiration, so we are not surprised that the interest in gardening is increasing even more.

Inspired by designers and celebrity gardeners, sprucing up outdoor spaces has become a key focus. With more time to spare, it would seem that Brits are doing their research and spending time browsing for the best product and deal to help keep gardens looking their best with trusted buys.

We are seeing a common trend in the products visitors are searching for, with a combination of three interesting factors, including - the return of good weather, the corona-effect of us being at home more than we typically are in normal circumstances and lastly, that we have time to spare. Growing vegetables, planting flowers and tending to your garden isn’t just about improving the outdoor environment, it can act as a time- consuming hobby as well.”