Flower growers across the UK have called for an investigation by the Office of Fair Trading (OFT) into claims of alleged unfair practices by leading retail chains.

The number of UK growers has almost halved in the last ten years and producers fear that without action many more will be forced out of business.

Although figures from the Flowers and Plants Association (FPA) indicate that the UK flower market is valued at £1.5 billion, the majority, up to 80 per cent, of flowers and plants are imported.

Veronica Richardson, chief executive of the FPA said: "It is very tough for the growers and I really feel for them." The National Farmers' Union has submitted a report to the fair trading office. Growers want flowers and plants to come under the wing of the Government's code of conduct. This would then regulate the conditions between companies and suppliers.