Genetic Modification
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A summary of RHS policy
1) The Royal Horticultural Society recognises increasing public interest in the potential of genetic engineering to enhance cultivated plants. It is aware of concerns about the practical and ethical implications of such practices.
2) RHS scientific staff will keep abreast of the technical developments and interpret them to help gardeners and horticulturists to understand them.
3) The RHS is committed to trial and demonstrate genetically manipulated plants in the same way as conventionally produced plants when and if presented for consideration for the Award of Garden Merit or other RHS awards. This will be done in a responsible manner, paying due attention to current legislation and providing appropriate information.
4) RHS scientists use some biotechnology techniques for tasks such as plant identification and disease diagnosis. It is not part of the Society’s policy to use these techniques to produce genetically modified plants.
5) The RHS recognises the legitimate rights of organic gardeners to practise gardening according to organic standards and the legitimate rights of the majority of gardeners who are not adherents of the organic movement to grow GM plants when and if they are approved for sale, and the need to find an accommodation where these rights may conflict.