Help fight plant health risks through major new survey
Landscapers are being urged to spare 10 minutes for a brand-new survey which aims to strengthen the detection of plant pests and diseases across the environmental horticulture sector.
The survey – an exciting collaboration between the government and industry – includes multiple-choice questions on the information, training, and other needs of businesses in this space.
Responses to the survey will help inform training and resource provision by the government and industry in order to support businesses with the detection and reporting of emerging plant health issues.
Any business involved in the buying or selling of ornamental plants is encouraged to respond to the survey, including:
- e-commerce traders,
- garden centres,
- retail nurseries,
- supermarkets and shops,
- growers and traders of plants, trees and bulbs,
- garden designers,
- landscapers,
- and gardens open to the public.
The survey is open now, closing on 16 February, with responses taking less than ten minutes and remaining entirely anonymous.
Click here to view and complete the survey.
BALI Chief Executive, Wayne Grills, said:
“We fully support this collaborative new survey and strongly encourage our members to respond during a quiet 10 minutes.
“Healthy plants are central to a thriving landscaping industry, and businesses can help inform better detection of pests and diseases by completing the survey.
“From plant-importing nurseries to large grounds maintenance contractors, our diverse membership is in a great position to provide feedback across the supply chain.”
Defra Chief Plant Health Officer, Professor Nicola Spence, said:
“Growers and businesses play a key role in early detection and reporting to support Defra's surveillance programmes for non-native plant pests and diseases, helping us to respond quickly and effectively.
"This survey will inform further support we can provide to the horticulture and landscaper industry, boosting detection abilities in order to continue to safeguard the country's plants."
