I have just returned from the Harrogate Spring Flower Show where the Northern Branch manned a very busy advice stand. Thankyou to all members who made themselves available to answer, at times, demanding questions. Sarah Owen-Hughes once again hosted a very successful series of interviews on the Human Gardener stand chatting to a range of horticulturists, promoting the diversity of careers in our industry. It was good to note that the crowds were back, and the mood buoyant, which was good news for growers.
Saturday will see the culmination of the Young Horticulturist of the Year competition, kindly hosted by Emmanuel College, Cambridge. We have eight worthy finalists and I wish them the best of luck.
The Social and Therapeutic Horticulturist (STH) Group are hosting an open network meeting on 9th May, the topic ‘CPD within STH’. You can register for this event via the website. They have, for the past few months, had several focus groups meeting and covering a wide range of topics.
If you are planning to attend the Annual General Meeting virtually, can you please register online as soon as possible. There are also places available for the Study Tour and visit to Exbury Gardens.
Industry news
The House of Lords Horticulture enquiry continues to receive information from many sectors. It has, as expected, highlighted several issues the industry is experiencing. Whilst this is not surprising, it is exposing the level of concern to government and those at the forefront of the industry.
There are many matters that require resolution. Post Brexit we are seeing more imports than exports. It was hoped that this trend would be reversed. UK exporters have highlighted continuing problems facing exporting to EU via Ireland. It is important that the issues are resolved as soon as possible. The value of production is significant with horticultural production valued at £4.8 billion in 2021 with ornamental production contributing £1.6 billion of this figure. There is a need for growth in home market production, but this is not happening at present.
New Government Biosecurity Strategy is being formulated, a five-year vision for plant health, consisting of an action plan to secure national biosecurity, protect native species and drive economic growth is planned.
The Ornamental Horticulture Roundtable Group is changing its name in June to The Environmental Horticulture Group. Over the past ten years the group has been working and lobbying in relation to Horticultural policies and education and training.
Susan Nicholas FCIHort
PRESIDENT
president@horticulture.org.uk