A Scottish Horticultural Action Plan, highlighting the contribution of parks and gardens to the wider Scottish economy, has been launched. The Plan, which sets out 10 asks of Scottish Government and pledges to support them in achieving these asks. The Plan focuses on 5 key areas where horticulture has a significant role to play. These are Education, Health/ Well-Being, Environment, Economy and Tourism.

‘‘It has been such a long journey but finally today after years of discussions, debates and changes the Scottish Horticulture Action Plan has now been launched, ‘’ said Neil Cummings, business manager for the HTA and chairman of the horticulture panel which represents 28 organisations and businesses across Scotland.

Neil presented the first copies of the newly printed document to David Knott, curator of Living Collections, at the Royal Botanic Garden, Edinburgh.

Mr Knott said: “This Horticultural Action Plan highlights the significant contribution parks and gardens make to the wider Scottish economy and also recognises the wider benefits of plants to the environment and our education, health and wellbeing in Scotland.”

On 20 March, a copy of the action plan was hand delivered to each of the 129 MSPs at Holyrood. On Thursday 29 March there will be a gathering of many of the organisations involved in the panel, at Holyrood to present the document during a drop in session to MSPs.

Neil Cummings said: “It has been incredibly hard work to bring such diverse organisations together to deliver a document that promotes all areas of Horticulture, but it is one we are all very proud of. However, the real work starts here. The panel will now go forward to work in partnership with Scottish Government to deliver the many asks and pledges. Together we will help to move Horticulture to the forefront.”