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Committees
Cultivating Inclusion in Horticulture
The strength of horticulture lies in its diversity, whether you're a small family-run nursery, landscaper, amenity/retail supplier or work for a large commercial operation, your perspective is vital.
At the HTA we have member led committees who represent specific sectors. Committee members volunteer to attend two to three meetings a year either virtually or in person. Our meetings provide an ideal opportunity to network with other businesses and share insights into the ground level issues affecting all areas of horticulture whilst contributing to new HTA projects and initiatives, as well as the HTA’s overall strategy.
The HTA’s strength as a trade association comes from the passion, expertise, and collaboration of our members, we are committed to fostering an inclusive community where every voice is valued and heard.
If you are interested in joining one of our committees, please click on the link below for more information:
As the former Garden Centre Association Chairman, I have joined the recently formed HTA retail committee to represent the GCA. I think it is really positive that this committee has been set up and it is good way to highlight the challenges that retailers face, come up with solutions to address them and ensure we work together across the industry. I am particularly keen to continue the work that was done during covid to use the strengths of both the HTA and GCA to represent our members. As the Managing Director of The Millbrook Garden Company in Kent, I have found it extremely useful to understand more about the inner workings of the HTA and the valuable work they are doing on our behalf to highlight the importance of horticulture to the wider economy.
Tammy Woodhouse, The Millbrook Garden Company
My tenure as chairman of the Association of Professional Landscapers has been a transformative journey that has enriched both my professional and personal life. It has provided me with a unique platform to connect, work alongside and learn from passionate individuals who share a commitment to excellence. From fostering invaluable relationships with industry leaders to enhancing my leadership skills, this role has deepened my understanding of the industry I am so passionate about.
Being granted the opportunity to advocate for our profession has enabled me to contribute toward influencing policies that benefit not only our members but also the environment and the consumer. Moreover, the exposure to diverse perspectives and innovative practices has inspired me to bring fresh ideas and solutions to my own business. Ultimately, my tenure as chairman has not only expanded my knowledge and skill set but has also instilled a profound sense of purpose in my career and fulfilment in the new relationships I have formed.
Dave Strow, APL Chairman
I joined the Ornamentals Management Committee in April 2024 after learning more about the work of the HTA and how the committee structure worked. Although new to the horticultural sector, I was impressed by the passion and energy of my industry colleagues and wanted to get involved in strategic steering of important topics. At that time, the industry faced several challenges including a ban on peat in commercial growing, the introduction of the Border Target Operating Model, increases in the national living wage, and extreme weather events.
I quickly gained an appreciation of the guidance and support the OMC offered, as well as their real-life examples of how specific interventions or mechanisms could support their interests as well as those of the wider membership base. It has helped build my industry knowledge, enabled me to benefit from the deep experience of my committee colleagues, as well as providing excellent networking and best practice sharing opportunities. Being part of the OMC has been a worthwhile investment of my time and enabled me to offer a contribution to this fantastic industry.
Melanie Asker – Greenwood Plants
Being part of the HTA’s Ornamental Management Committee (OMC) and Amenity Suppliers Committee (ASC) is a real privilege. It’s a chance to meet with like-minded growers and suppliers, to share practical experiences from the nursery, and to help shape how our industry responds to current challenges. From borders and trade to plant health, biosecurity, labour, and sustainability, the conversations are rooted in the day-to-day realities of horticulture. It’s rewarding to be part of those discussions—and to play even a small role in forming the HTA’s position on key issues and contributing to the voice that represents us to policymakers and government. In recent years, the HTA has made great strides in government engagement, and we’re starting to see the results of that hard work.
The government listens to the HTA, and DEFRA now regularly seeks its opinion. Committee meetings are grounded in shared experience and focused on securing a brighter, healthier future for UK horticulture.
Guy Massey, Joseph Rochford Gardens
Enquiry Form
Please use the form to contact the HTA Groups and Committees Team. A member from our team will be in contact soon to assist you. Should you have any questions or queries please contact us below for further information.