The HTA is encouraging the UK to get planting this Autumn with its ‘million planting moments’ campaign. Taking place between 19-27 September 2020 the aim of the week is to encourage everyone young and old, expert and novice to take the opportunity to plant at the traditional ‘natural’ planting time of year. The week culminates in Million Planting Moments Day on Sunday 27 September.
The campaign, which takes place during the International Year of Plant Health (IYPH), builds on the momentum around tree planting in the UK, recognising that all plants make a positive contribution to mitigating the impact of climate change. It provides an opportunity to highlight to consumers the importance of plant health.
Suggestions on the best types of plant to choose depending on factors such as soil, site and size of space are available, with consumers encouraged to visit their local garden centre for expert knowledge and advice, depending on their specific needs.
HTA President Boyd Douglas-Davies comments, “By creating a ‘#millionplantingmoments’ we are highlighting the huge contribution that plants make to our health and wellbeing, environment and communities. The beauty of the campaign is that anyone can take part whether they have access to a community space, garden, patio or window box and can plant anything from trees and shrubs to perennials and bedding.
“Taking place in nature’s natural time for planting we encourage consumers to visit their local garden centre to find out the best plants for their space and share their #millionplantingmoments on social media.”
In support of the campaign Defra’s Chief Plant Health Officer, Nicola Spence, comments: “Our world is much smaller than it once was and increasing globalisation and environmental change have huge implications for the health of the world’s plants. So it’s great to see that the HTA is encouraging safe sourcing and planting to ensure that the UK’s future plants and trees are kept pest and disease-free, through its ‘million planting moments’ campaign.
“From considering soil, site and space, the HTA’s advice will prove invaluable for budding gardeners homing healthy plants nationwide.”
There will be an opportunity for individuals to contribute photos of their planting moments using #millionplantingmoments, #IYPH2020 and #PlantHealth
For more information
Horticultural Trades Association
Horticulture House
19 High Street
Theale
Reading
West Berkshire
RG7 5AH
T: +44 (0)118 930 3132
Fax: +44 (0)118 932 3453
NGGV: +44 (0)118 930 2092
www.the-hta.org.uk