Business is blooming at the family-owned Welland Vale Garden Centre.

While the independent garden centre in Glaston Road, Uppingham, is closed to the public, pre-orders for hanging baskets and summer bedding plants are racking up.

And a long-awaited supply of edible plants - including veggies and strawberries - are due in any day.

Annie Burns, who runs the garden centre with partner Charlie Thomas, told Oakham Nub News: "Hanging baskets have been planted and are growing and, as soon as we are sure the frost has departed, pre-orders for these will be dispatched.

"There are also lots of people desperate for bedding plants, but they still need nurturing here a little longer before we are releasing them."

Welland Vale grows all its own bedding plants on-site and about 90 percent of its herbaceous and perennial shrubs.

There's also good news for gardeners who want to help feed their families.

"This week we will be taking delivery of strip packs of vegetables, herbs and strawberry plants.

"They've been out of stock for some time so we are delighted to get our hands on fresh supplies," added Annie.

And, with the recent spell of good weather, garden furniture is also selling well with all ranges currently in stock and available to buy online, via email or on the telephone.

From next Monday (27 March), Welland Vale intends to extend its telephone order line opening time from 9am to 12noon to 9am to 4pm.

To order call 01572 822729 or email [email protected], remembering to include a contact telephone number.

Welland Vale Garden Centre is offering a free home delivery service - for orders over £25 and within a 20 mile radius - during the coronavirus lockdown.

Delivery is safe and contactless, with no signature required.

Some items are also available online.

Welland Vale is regularly posting on its Facebook page including suggestions for plant 'collections' - ideally suited to shady or sunny spots in the garden or which flower early to provide a welcome pop of colour.

"The family and team would like to thank all our customers - old and new - for their valuable and continued support and kindness.

"We are very busy and thank customers for their patience - we are working as fast as we can to respond to everyone as quickly as possible.

"We wish everyone remains safe...and keeps gardening," added Annie.