Squire's Garden Centres is encouraging everyone to "hug a houseplant" this January to banish the post-Christmas blues and brighten up the darkest days of the year.

The local garden centre chain, with centres in Badshot Lea, Frensham and Milford, suggest that the combination of hugs and nature is a perfect match to make people feel better and that January is the perfect time to be showing love and care to houseplants.

Not only do they look good, but they also can have psychological benefits such as improving mood and reducing stress levels.

Jeremy Hall, plant buyer at Squire's, says that "houseplants really bring welcome winter cheer" and can improve air quality, give people something to care for and add character and greenery to the home.