The industry group behind the Horticulture Matters report has published an update following the launch of the project last year.
Backed by groups such as the RHS, the Chartered Institute of Horticulture and Lantra, the updated report highlights some of the work undertaken, and the challenges the industry faces.
Key priorities include improving the perception of careers in the sector, supporting schools in the delivery of horticultural qualifications and working with Government to secure funding for plant-science research.
Speaking at the YoungHort conference in London, which was attended by 300 young horticulturists, RHS Director General Sue Biggs said: "As a sector we want to share our passion for what I consider to be one of the most rewarding, important and life-affirming professions in the world, horticulture.
"And it is this love of horticulture and an understanding of the economic, scientific, cultural and social benefits it brings that brought the sector together a year ago to launch the Horticulture Matters campaign in order to highlight and address the growing crisis we face."
Despite horticulture contributing £9 billion to the UK economy every year, the report says that 70% of businesses find it a struggle to source the skilled workers they require and 83% put this down to the poor perception of horticulture in schools and colleges.
Delegates at the YoungHort conference received an early first view of a film developed by the industry-backed Grow initiative to inspire potential young horticulturists in schools. The film will be shared on social media sites and at high-profile shows including the RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2015.
To read Horticulture Matters 2014 visit:
www.rhs.org.uk/horticulturematters
Comments