Gardening clubs under threat

The UKs gardening clubs face a "bleak future" because they are unable to attract younger members to help sustain them, it has been claimed.

According to the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) garden and greenhouse enthusiasts should look to support their local organisations by joining up.

It conducted a recent survey of its 2,800 affiliated clubs, noting 83 per cent have members aged 55 and over, with 72 per cent of these in retirement.

The research also found more than half of them are struggling to recruit younger members

We know from our Britain in Bloom campaign that gardening is a powerful catalyst for change in communities, bringing neighbours together and enriching the quality of life," stated RHS director general Inga Grimsey.

She explained the society is attempting to help get more young people involved in using their green spaces and glasshouses by hosting Dig Together Days – the first of which took place on Tuesday September 1st.

Two more will follow this weekend, with gardeners being encouraged to share their knowledge with others.

Another forthcoming RHS event is the three-day Wisley Flower Show, which takes place from September 11th.