The size, scope, and role of the horticultural industry
The Size of the Horticultural Industry
- The horticultural industry is a major component of the UK's overall agricultural sector, contributing significantly to the economic output of the country.
- Many different types of horticultural businesses exist, ranging from small independent nurseries to large commercial operations.
- The size of the horticultural industry is best measured through factors like the number of employees, the volume of products produced, and the industry’s overall economic contribution.
Scope of the Horticultural Industry
- The horticultural industry covers a range of activities, which can be broadly put into the categories of ornamental horticulture, landscaping and grounds maintenance, fruit and vegetable production, and plant nurseries.
- Ornamental horticulture involves the cultivation of decorative plants, trees, and shrubs. This often includes the production of cut flowers.
- Landscaping and grounds maintenance focuses on the design and upkeep of outdoor spaces, from parks and gardens to sports fields and roadside verges.
- Fruit & vegetable production involves the commercial cultivation of edible crops. This can be for supermarkets and other retail outlets or for processing into products like jams, juices, and canned goods.
- Plant nurseries grow young plants from seed or cuttings, before they are mature enough to be sold to commercial growers, garden centres or private customers.
Role of the Horticultural Industry
- The horticultural industry plays a crucial role in the provision of food and other plant-based products. It is a key driver of the UK food supply chain.
- The industry also has significant aesthetic roles, contributing to the design and maintenance of public and private green spaces. This can enhance well-being, biodiversity and environmental quality.
- It plays a pivotal role in the maintenance and enhancement of the UK's biodiversity, through the cultivation of a wide variety of plant species.
- Horticultural practices also contribute to scientific understanding and conservation efforts. Many businesses conduct research and development, and contribute to conservation initiatives.
- Horticulture is critical to the circular economy, contributing to waste reduction and recycling by composting plant material into nutrient-rich soil amendments.