Some of Britain’s best-loved plants could face extinction by the middle of this century, according to new research. If the current warming trend continues, bluebells, snowdrops, daffodils, roses and oak and beech trees could all die, to be replaced by more drought-resistant species.

Scientists from the Climatic Research Unit of the University of East Anglia were commissioned by satellite and cable channel UKTV Gardens to conduct a survey into climate change and its effects on our gardens. Assuming a 4°C rise within 50 years, the researchers’ model predicted that the lifespans of annual species such as bluebells and daffodils would be shortened, while changes in rainfall would spell the end of trees such as the oak and beech, which require a steady water supply.

Weeds, pests and diseases are also expected to thrive in the warmer conditions, said the study, with weeds becoming a year-round problem and pests such as mites, aphids, wasps and mosquitoes likely to survive winters more easily.