UK: DCF launches new orchid collection to support student growers

The David Colegrave Foundation, the charity for people studying horticulture, is launching a new fundraising collection of Phalaenopsis Orchid at this year's HTA National Plant Show.

The charity worked with Garden Centre Fresh which originally approached DCF with the initiative, as well as two young growers who have a passion for orchids to select the collection. The collection which offers a distinctive fusion of summer colours and striking markings will be sold into retailers this summer. Every orchid purchased will help to fund the DCF's scholarships for students studying horticulture at colleges across the UK.

Victoria Miles, a horticulture student at Bicton College and Jessica Laurent a past horticulture student at Writtle College, were selected for the project after previously demonstrating their passion for orchids through a scholarship application to the DCF. Remembering their interest, DCF offered the duo a bursary giving them the opportunity to join DCF and the Garden Centre Fresh team in the orchid selection.

Jessica says: "Long have I been interested in orchids, so when I was asked to participate with this project, I was extremely excited to be given the opportunity. The collection will be fantastic for the time of launch and different from most Phalaenopsis orchids. I would like to thank the DCF for helping students and young horticulturalists like myself with the work they do and for giving us the opportunity".
The trip was also a fantastic learning experience as Victoria explains, "I have been researching commercial orchid production, so this was an excellent opportunity to see it first hand and a valuable experience in my horticultural journey. I am very grateful for the experience; it was really nice to feel like our opinion was valued in this process".

Brian Redman of Garden Centre Fresh says "We're delighted that The David Colegrave Orchid Collection will go on to help students of horticulture. It's great to be involved in a project that supports our industry and encourages consumers to get involved too".

Jeff Colegrave, DCF Chairman, says "What great news, the purchase of plants helping provide more sound advice in the future for their care".
DCF (176) will be promoting the orchids at its stand where visitors can take one home for a voluntary donation which will also help to support DCF scholarships. Visitors can visit the Garden Centre Fresh (69-70) stand to find out more or place an order.

For more information
The David Colegrave Foundation
www.davidcolegravefoundation.org.uk

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