When it’s gone, it’s gone...
Plant Heritage is saving our garden plants through its National Plant Collections scheme
Over decades and sometimes centuries, our nation’s dedicated gardeners have collected, bred and cared for a huge range of garden plants. Today, this rich horticultural heritage is threatened by the advance of new pests and diseases, climate change, loss of gardens, fluctuating fashions and the changing nursery trade. If garden plants die out, a slice of social, cultural and horticultural history disappears too.
Plant Heritage is a charity that helps preserve plants through the National Collections. National Collection holders do invaluable work to protect and conserve the diversity of our rich flora for future generations to enjoy.
Collections are usually available for people to view by appointment, or on an open day. These events give visitors a great opportunity to see collections not usually exhibited in their entirety. Collections provide opportunities for plant research and conservation. Look out for virtual visits on www.plantheritage.org.uk
National Plant Collection of Lathyrus, Sussex
National Collection holders
Our National Collection holders are passionate about the plants in their care. After many years of working closely with their chosen group of plants, they become experts in their field and are always keen to share their expertise.
National Collection Holder: Don Billington
National Collection Holder: Sarah Cook
National Collection Holder: Simon Lockyer
Holders may be individuals, plant nurseries, public and botanic gardens or groups of people who share the collection across different locations.
You don’t need a huge garden. Some collections are held in the tiniest of spaces – in greenhouses, on allotments or even indoors.
If you’re interested in a group of plants or already have a collection you’d like to develop further, please consider helping to preserve the diversity of garden plants by becoming a National Collection holder.
