More than half of British gardeners talk to their plants.
Research has revealed 51 per cent of Brits have chats with their plants, with British retail chain B&Q appointing ''plant whisperers'' to do the same for the shrubs they sell to ensure they stay in good health.
Three employees in a branch of the chain in Southampton have been appointed to speak to the greenery full-time, led by horticulturalist and botanist Tim Clapp.
Previous research by The Royal Horticultural Society indicated encouraging conversations have a positive impact on garden growth.