HTA supports Greenfingers charity Kilimanjaro trek
24 February 2026
The Horticultural Trades Association (HTA) is proud to sponsor a 24-strong team climbing Mount Kilimanjaro to raise funds for the Greenfingers Charity.
The HTA has a long-standing relationship with Greenfingers, supporting the charity's creation of inspiring gardens and green spaces at children’s hospices across the UK through the National Garden Gift Card scheme and various fundraising initiatives. As part of this latest support, the HTA is sponsoring the Kilimanjaro trek and the climbers’ kit. Every pound raised from the challenge will go directly towards creating a new Greenfingers therapeutic garden for children, families and carers at Naomi House and Jacksplace hospices.
In less than three months (10 - 21 June), the Kilimanjaro trekkers, comprising members of the horticultural industry, will tackle the mountain to raise vital funds for the charity. The challenge is no mean feat. Mount Kilimanjaro is Africa’s highest peak, standing at 5,895 metres (19,341 feet) - the tallest free-standing mountain in the world. The team will climb to the summit without technical climbing gear, making it a true test of endurance, teamwork and determination.
At the Garden Press Event on 17 February, the HTA’s Chief Executive, Fran Barnes, met with Greenfingers Patron, actor Jim Carter, and some of the Kilimanjaro climbers to wish them well on their upcoming challenge and to show her support for the initiative and the charity's incredible work.
Fran Barnes, Chief Executive of the Horticultural Trades Association (HTA), said:
“The HTA is proud to support this amazing charity and the 24 courageous trekkers taking on this extraordinary challenge. The gardens and green spaces created by Greenfingers are invaluable and make a huge difference to children with life-limiting conditions, their families and hospice staff across the country. Over the past seven years, alongside our members, we have raised more than £65,000 for Greenfingers. I am pleased that our continued support for this charity helps make a positive impact through gardens, green spaces and nature.”
Greenfingers is a national charity dedicated to supporting life-limited children and their families who spend time in hospices around the UK. To date, the charity has created over 70 inspiring gardens in children’s hospices and has a further waiting list of hospices that need its help.
Linda Petrons, Director of Fundraising and Communications at the Greenfingers Charity, said:
“We’re incredibly proud of our Kilimanjaro trekkers. With the challenge just months away and the new garden at Naomi House and Jack’s Place already in the planning stages, this is a crucial time for support. We would like to extend our thanks to the Horticultural Trades Association for its continued support. The HTA’s sponsorship means that more donations can help turn those plans into a space that brings joy, calm and connection to families.”
The HTA is a proud supporter of the Greenfingers Charity. For more information on how it uses the National Garden Gift Card scheme to raise the profile and support Greenfingers, visit: hta.org.uk/national-garden-gift-card/supporting-greenfingers.
Support the Kilimanjaro Trek: justgiving.com/campaign/greenfingers-kilimanjaro2026