Support the RHS
Harlow Carr Alpine House Appeal
Will you help us create a new Alpine House at RHS Harlow Carr?
Our wonderful assortment of alpines, many of them rare, are in urgent need of a new home. Although much loved, the two glasshouses where the alpines are currently displayed are over 40 years old and are quite literally falling apart, due to wear and tear beyond repair.
Despite the very best efforts of the dedicated team at Harlow Carr, the damaged roof means that currently there is no protection for the alpines from the elements and in windy weather it has to be closed to visitors as the glass is liable to fall out. Broken windows mean that the environment is also no longer conducive to the healthy growth of all the alpine varieties and the damaged door offers no security or protection for the collection.
The great news is that plans are already in place to replace them with one state of the art, safe and modern glasshouse which will be enjoyed by visitors for generations to come.
It will be much larger, 30 percent, than the two existing houses combined. Not only will it have wider pathways to make it accessible for wheelchairs but there will also be much more space to view and appreciate all the wonderful sights and scents
The new Alpine House will also be totally self sufficient for watering. Rainwater will be captured and harvested then recycled for us. Air vents will dispel hot air without the need for electrically heat operated pumps while thermal screening will keep heat down in summer.
The area surrounding the new Alpine House will also be landscaped. We will recreate part of a native limestone pavement like the ones found in the Yorkshire dales, while smaller spaces will be created to demonstrate how alpines can be used to bring beauty and colour where space is limited.
Many alpines are under threat in their native habitats so this makes Harlow Carr a unique and valuable testing ground to determine which areas in the north of England are conducive to the survival of these delicate plants.
But for this to go ahead, we need support to help finance the building work. If enough support is received we envisage that the Alpine House could open by spring 2009.
The more members, who support this vital collection the closer we will be to opening a brand new house, fit for the collection. And if you can afford a gift of over £100 we will show our thanks by inviting you and a guest to a celebratory opening.
For your chance to help re-house this wonderful collection, click here to make a donation