Our objectives

The Institute of Horticulture is the authoritative organisation representing all those professionally engaged in horticulture in the UK and Ireland.

Its membership comprises and represents all those involved in the management, growing and marketing of all edible and decorative horticultural crops and the research, education and consultancy concerned with them . . . it also includes those concerned with botanic gardens and landscaping and the full range of horticulture within the leisure industries and those working in associated supply industries.

The Institute offers not only recognition of status in the horticultural industry but provides the opportunity to make a really effective contribution to the future of horticulture and its importance as a career . . . the Institute’s professional and technical meetings and other activities are arranged both at national and regional level.

The Institute aims: to promote the profession of horticulture and the professionalism of those working in the industry and to act as the authoritative body for the purpose of consultation with Government and other policy making bodies on matters of interest or concern to professional horticulturists.

The Institute seeks to confer professional status upon horticulturalists with appropriate qualifications and proven experience.

It seeks to cooperate with other bodies on matters of common concern such as the promotion of educational and training opportunities, the maintenance of effective research services, the development of all disciplines within horticulture and the introduction of new legislation that impacts on horticulture.

The Institute aims to disseminate information on matters affecting the profession and to provide opportunities for discussion amongst horticulturalists through the website, publications, conferences, seminars and lectures.

The Institute promotes the importance of horticulture in food and ornamental plant production, providing employment, often in rural areas, improving the environment, creating and managing valuable sports and recreational facilities and as one of the main leisure pursuits...gardening.

How to find out more

For a full picture of our Institute and activities visit our website by clicking the website link in the box on the left. To contact us click the email link