AN ORGANIC gardening business near Stroud is seeing a huge rise in sales, as green fingered growers look for eco-friendly ways to manage their gardens during lockdown.

Gardening Naturally is a small, family-run business based near Aston Down, which specialises in organic solutions that allow gardeners to grow fruit and vegetables without the use of pesticides.

One of their top-selling products this season are nematodes – microscopic worms that eat garden pests without harming other wildlife

Julie Brandreth, director of Gardening Naturally, said: “During the current lockdown, business is booming.

"We’re seeing lots of people taking up gardening for the first time, as well as experienced practitioners who may have more time to try out something new.

“What we’re also noticing is that more people are looking for environmentally-friendly ways to create their perfect outdoor space, without the use of pesticides or harmful, toxic chemicals.

“For the organic grower, nematodes really are an amazing biological weapon and a great way to get rid of those creepy-crawlies who like to nibble your crops.”

Julie added: “People around the world are turning to gardening as a soothing, family-friendly hobby – but they want to do that in a way that’s kind to the environment.

“We are blessed with a wonderful temperate climate here in the Cotswolds, and with people spending more time at home than ever before, this is the perfect opportunity for local people to re-connect with their gardens and create a beautiful outside space.”

Gardening Naturally is open Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm and customers can order online via: gardening-naturally.com