The Horticultural Trade Association (HTA) has highlighted a ‘pressing need’ to encourage the next generation into horticulture, amid a skill shortage.

The HTA hosted the second meeting of the Cross-Party Group (CPG) on horticulture this week, held at the Scottish Parliament in Holyrood.

Present at the meeting were government officials, industry representatives and educational institutions with a shared interest in the growth and sustainability of the sector in Scotland.

A key topic of discussion on the agenda was the importance of skill training and education in horticulture, highlighting schools engaging with land-based education and the value this has in encouraging the next generation.

“Inspiring and training the next generation of Scottish horticulturalists is at the heart of what this group is trying to achieve,” says Rachael Hamilton MSP, convenor of the CPG on gardening & horticulture.

The ‘pressing need’ for investment in and engagement with the next generation was also highlighted, with the pledge to support schools and colleges providing essential training to kickstart careers.

The HTA again committed to shaping the Environmental Horticulture Growth Strategy, a ‘pivotal’ scheme to support the growth and sustainability of horticulture in Scotland.

The Strategy goals include, developing green economic growth, high-quality jobs and the investment in education/ skills. Enhancing and protecting Scotland’s biosecurity, and the mitigation of repercussions caused by climate change.

The CPG also discussed the topics of networking opportunities to increase external sector perception, peat and plant health.