One of the requirements of holding a National Plant Collection is to make it available for others to see.
Some collections are in gardens open to the public. With a private collection you can state a preference for visits by appointment or set an annual open day. Some collection holders combine this with opening their garden through the National Gardens Scheme, or holding a fundraising event with plant sales or a talk on their specialist collection.
You can publicise your open day(s) in the print Directory, published annually in March, and here on the Plant Heritage website. We highlight open days on our social media too (if you are doing a post and would like to do a joint post, please get in touch). If you post on social media, please use the hashtags #PlantHeritage or #NationalPlantCollections and feel free to add #PlantDiversity or #PlantConservation if you wish. For help publicising the day locally contact your local group or coordinator. Another great place to advertise is on local notice boards, local magazines and radio stations.
Insurance
Plant Heritage has insurance through NFU Mutual that covers holders of accredited National Collections to make these available to the public through open days or visits by appointment. You can see a copy of our insurance certificate if you click the link below.
Fortunately claims are rare, but please make sure to let us know about any incidents or 'near misses' as soon as possible (the same day or next working day for serious incidents - phone 01483 447540). This insurance covers claims for bodily injury and/or property damage suffered by third parties, if Plant Heritage is found to be legally liable. You should not admit liability, and you should take reasonable steps to avoid injury.
Plant Heritage Public Liability Insurance Certificate 2025-26
Please be aware that this covers situations where people have come specifically to see the National Collection. If the garden is opened and publicised in other circumstances e.g. on behalf of the National Garden Scheme or another charity, you should check that you're covered under their insurance. It also doesn't cover any paid staff or damage to your own property. For more information on Plant Heritage insurance including a copy of the insurance guidelines please contact us.
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