John Potter, director of Saga, said that the increasing value of garden adornments such as furniture and patio heaters, as well as plants and shrubs, was increasing the value of home insurance policies.

Plants are often not included in insurance policies while garden furniture usually is, according to Mr Potter.

Figures from the Target Group Index from April 2006 to March 2007 revealed that more than one million people in the UK spend £150 a year on plants.

“One of the primary reasons for taking out extended garden cover would be to cover plants, including shrubs, trees, vegetables and hedges, as these are often not covered under a standard home insurance contents policy,” said Mr Potter.

He added that people who installed unusual barbecues, patio heaters and ornamental statues should consider extending their home insurance.

Some policies were able to return a garden to its glory following extensive damage, Mr Potter concluded.

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