There is a need for tougher rules on the sales of chemicals used in gardens and allotments, the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) has said.
RSPB policy officer Jim Densham noted that currently people can buy chemicals to spray on their garden from a supermarket or horticultural centre "without being made aware of the effect it could have on wildlife".
However, according to the Horticultural Trades Association (HTA), many gardens are specifically created for wildlife.
Tim Briercliffe, the HTA's director of business development, said: "We know that the majority of gardeners are also nature lovers and that they do take a responsible attitude with regard to garden chemicals and are sympathetic to wildlife."
"The garden industry recognises the responsibility it has in selling chemicals and works closely with the HTA to ensure that garden retail staff are properly trained with regard to selling them," he added.
Last week, the HTA said it was discussing the garden sector with the government.
Make the most of your garden with our garden bargains.
Posted by Carla Spuri.  |