Can horticulturists save the world?: A reflection on the curation of plant collections

Abstract

Having worked with plant collections for 30 years perspectives change, particularly as we face increasing environmental challenges. Collections celebrate plant diversity whether it’s grown for science, conservation, education or for joy. These all remain strong and valid reasons, whilst the increasing awareness of environmental issues and notably the challenges of a changing climate bring a new emphasis. Horticulturists have been at the forefront of recognising these impacts, adapting our management and noting the changing behaviour of plants. In our collections, cultivated plants will be increasingly important as we adapt and mitigate, placing a new emphasis on conserving and utilising them. Connected is the increased recognition of the value of plants and green spaces to our well-being. These challenges raise the importance and relevance of plant diversity and horticulture to the wider society. So can horticulturists save the World? We will certainly have a major contribution to make.