STUDENT PROJECT An investigation into the components of conservation horticulture projects

Targets have been set within the Global Biodiversity Framework to increase in situ and ex situ conservation activities to address the biodiversity crisis and impacts of climate change. This paper highlights the horticultural skills and facilities held in botanic gardens that can make an essential contribution to these conservation activities and that are often termed ‘conservation horticulture’. Previously published research identified a lack of cohesion in the use of this term. This research seeks to explain the reasons for this through analysis of both previously published data and new data. New data presented was collected through semi-structured interviews with practitioners involved in conservation horticulture programmes in Europe, Asia, Australasia and North America. Key findings include the need for an understanding of conservation and horticultural principles, and the importance of research, teamwork and communication to deliver conservation horticulture projects. A theme map of the findings is presented as are factors to be considered when planning conservation horticulture projects.