Empowering Growth: Women Leading the Way in Horticulture
As we approach International Women's Day on March 8th, 2024, it's a perfect time to shine a spotlight on the incredible contributions of women in horticulture. From cultivating gardens to advocating for environmental sustainability, women have been at the forefront of nurturing our planet and inspiring future generations to join the green revolution.
As the female Founder and horticulturalist of The Wild Remedy, I am deeply passionate about celebrating and highlighting the vital role that women play in horticulture. At The Wild Remedy, we believe in the power of nature to heal and restore, and our mission is to reconnect people with the natural world through gardening and conservation efforts.
One of the most inspiring aspects of women in horticulture is the diverse range of roles they occupy and the impact they have on our communities and the environment. Let's take a moment to recognise some of the leading women in horticulture and their remarkable contributions:
Marian Spain, Natural England chief executive. Marian Spain is a prominent figure in the conservation and environmental sector, currently serving as the Chief Executive of Natural England. With a deep-rooted passion for nature conservation and biodiversity, Spain has dedicated her career to advocating for the protection and sustainable management of natural landscapes.
Clare Matterson, RHS director general. Matterson's career path reflects her multifaceted expertise, spanning both scientific research and organisational leadership. Before assuming the role of Director General at the RHS, she held various prominent positions, including Director of Science and Learning at the Natural History Museum in London.
Beth Chatto - Renowned for her innovative approach to gardening and her advocacy for sustainable practices, Chatto's influence continues to shape the way we think about garden design and plant cultivation.
Ruth Bancroft - A pioneer in the world of succulent gardening, Bancroft's work at the Ruth Bancroft Garden has helped to conserve and showcase the beauty of drought-tolerant plants.
Abra Lee - a horticulturalist and author of the upcoming book, “Conquer The Soil: Black America and the Untold Stories of Our Country’s Gardeners, Farmers, and Growers.
Penny Woodward - As an author and expert in organic gardening, Woodward has empowered countless individuals to cultivate healthy, sustainable gardens.
Marianne Majerus - Through her stunning garden photography, Majerus captures the beauty and diversity of plants, inspiring gardeners around the world.
Bernadette Vallely- Founder WEN (Women’s Environmental Network)
Dr. Jane Goodall - Renowned for her work with chimpanzees, Dr. Goodall's advocacy for environmental conservation has inspired countless women to pursue careers in horticulture and wildlife preservation.
Dr. Vandana Shiva - A fierce advocate for biodiversity and sustainable agriculture, Dr. Shiva's research and activism have been instrumental in promoting eco-friendly farming practices.
Alice Vincent - Author of "Rootbound: Rewilding a Life," Vincent's work encourages urban dwellers to reconnect with nature through gardening, fostering a deeper appreciation for the environment.
Dame Helen Ghosh - Director General of the National Trust, Dame Ghosh has spearheaded initiatives to protect and preserve historic gardens and green spaces across the UK.
Dr. Suzanne Simard - A ground-breaking researcher in the field of forest ecology, Simard's work has revolutionised our understanding of plant communication and symbiotic relationships in ecosystems.
Poppy Okotcha- originally known for her career in modeling, made a remarkable transition into the world of ecological gardening, showcasing her passion for sustainability and environmental consciousness. Born with a deep connection to nature, Poppy's journey began as a model, gracing the pages of prestigious fashion magazines and walking the runways for renowned designers. However, her experiences within the fashion industry fuelled her awareness of the environmental impact of consumerism.
Nat Porter, Young People in Horticulture Association/Happy Plants is a passionate advocate for horticulture, particularly among young people. As the founder of the Young People in Horticulture Association (YPHA) and the Happy Plants initiative, Nat has dedicated their career to promoting the benefits of gardening and plant care, especially among the youth demographic.
Melanie Wood, Fargro and founder of Women in Horticulture UK, known for her multifaceted roles as the managing director of Fargro, a leading supplier of horticultural products and solutions. With a passion for plants and a keen business acumen, Melanie has played a pivotal role in steering Fargro towards success, driving innovation, and fostering sustainable practices within the industry.
Charlotte Howard, Founder Women in Gardening Network is a visionary entrepreneur and advocate for women's empowerment in the gardening industry. As the founder of Capability Charlotte and the Women in Gardening Network, she has dedicated her career to breaking down barriers and promoting gender equality in horticulture.
These women, among many others, have and are paving the way for future generations of female horticulturalists, demonstrating the immense impact that women can have in this field.
However, despite their incredible contributions, women in horticulture continue to face challenges, including disparities in pay and representation. According to the latest research, women in horticulture earn, on average, 20% less than their male counterparts. This gender pay gap is unacceptable and underscores the need for greater equity and inclusion in the industry.
Furthermore, women often encounter barriers in accessing appropriate equipment and tools, with many products designed primarily for male users. This issue mirrors similar challenges faced by women in sports, where equipment and facilities are often tailored to male athletes. Addressing these disparities is essential for creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for women in horticulture.
Organisations like The Landscape Institute, Women in Gardening Network and Women in Horticulture have been instrumental in advocating for equality and diversity in the industry. Their efforts to promote gender parity and provide support for female horticulturalists are vital steps towards creating a more inclusive and equitable profession.
As we celebrate International Women's Day with the theme of "Inspire Inclusion," it's essential to recognise the importance of diversity in horticulture. By embracing the talents and perspectives of women, we can create a more resilient and sustainable future for our planet.
In the words of pioneering horticulturalist Gertrude Jekyll, "The love of gardening is a seed once sown that never dies." Let us nurture that seed and cultivate a future where women in horticulture thrive, inspiring inclusion and stewardship of our precious natural resources.