Help plant conservation by boosting diversity in your garden

The UK has a rich horticultural history, which is the result of many dedicated gardeners over the centuries who have bred and cared for a diverse range of plants. We want to celebrate this and find ways to increase biodiversity in our own growing space.

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Genes are small sections of DNA that code for particular traits. During sexual reproduction, genes of both parents are mixed to create a genetically different offspring. Plants grown from seed may not be 'true to type' and look like their parents, but genetic variation can be beneficial, creating new, interesting characteristics and sometimes improving resilience to environmental conditions or disease. On the other hand, plants grown from cuttings are genetically identical to their parents.

Everyone can play an active role in plant conservation, whether you’re in a school or college, part of a community allotment or have your own garden or greenhouse. Planting a variety of plants may also help to mitigate against the effects of climate change, as well as benefitting the wider environment, the biodiversity in our gardens and our own mental wellbeing too.

Top tips for building biodiversity in your garden

Evaluate your growing space

Whatever space you have – whether it be a windowsill, garden or allotment – work out what you can grow. As well as space, also consider things such as light levels (if indoors), soil type and rainfall (if outdoors) and how much time you can give, and research the most suitable plants for you.

Right plant, right place

Now you have an allocated space, think about what you would like to grow and what skills you’ll need to look after your plants. A space-efficient and easy-to-care-for succulent is a great option for a school classroom or college, whereas an apple tree would work well in a garden or community allotment, depending on its size! Your local Plant Heritage group will be able to advise you on what’s good to grow in your space.

Choose your plants

Select healthy plants and plant them up with two labels – one above ground and one below by the roots – as an unlabelled plant is a lost plant. By looking after even one rare plant, you’ll be helping with vital conservation work, as well as upskilling and empowering yourself, and perhaps those around you.

Plan regular care

Think ahead about how you’ll care for your plants. Will a school cohort be looking after them as part of their GSCE biology, or will either you or a neighbour be able to water them when needed?

Share with other growers

Once your plants are in place, there are several ways to ensure their longevity. For example, by propagating and sharing plant material with others, you can help keep your plant in circulation. Local plant fairs are a good place to do this. And, if you have a rare plant, make sure it is recorded on Plant Heritage’s Plant Guardian scheme.

To find out more about plant conservation and ways you can help, visit the Plant Heritage website.