The RHS has made more than £100,000 available to gardening professionals and keen amateurs who want to combine worldwide travel and horticultural learning this year.
The funding, which comprises a series of bursaries and will see around 100 applicants receive amounts ranging between £200 to £3,000, is intended to grow the UK’s horticultural skills and knowledge. This might include – at home or abroad – the study of a particular plant or growing technique, conference attendance or help funding a voluntary work placement.
A fellowship programme also offers one applicant an all-expenses paid opportunity to study at an American University or gain practical experience at Pennsylvania’s botanical Longwood Gardens.
Previous recipients of RHS funding have investigated unique flora in Korea’s Demilitarised Zone, researched plants in the Caucasus Mountains and followed in the footsteps of famed horticulturist Harold Comber in Tasmania.
Chris Moncrieff, Head of Horticultural Relations, said: “Hundreds of people have already benefitted from RHS funding; supporting their professional careers, confirming their passion for gardening and bolstering the UK’s horticultural know how. There’s still much to be explored so we’re encouraging anyone with a passion for plants to apply.”
The next round of funding applications closes on 30th September. More information is available at www.rhs.org.uk/bursaries