One of the requirements of holding a National Plant Collection is to make it available for others to see
Some collections are in gardens open to the public. With a private collection you can state a preference for visits by appointment or set an annual open day.
We'll include information about your open day/s in the printed National Collections Directory that goes out each spring. We'll also publicise it here on the Plant Heritage website, and through social media (if you've got an Instagram or Facebook account, we're very happy to do joint posts - email comms@plantheritage.org.uk or invite us to collaborate in the apps). For help with local publicity, we recommend that you talk to your local collections coordinator and your local group if there is one. Another great place to advertise is on local notice boards, local magazines and radio stations.
Click here to tell us about your open day
Some National Collection holders combine an open day with a fundraising event for Plant Heritage, or ask visitors for a donation to Plant Heritage. National Collection holders opening with the National Gardens Scheme (NGS) or Scotland's Garden Scheme (SGS) you can nominate Plant Heritage as the charity to receive a percentage of your net takings. Please get in touch if you're interested and we'll be happy to tell you more. We really appreciate all your support.
Insurance
Plant Heritage has insurance that covers holders of accredited National Collections in the UK to make these available to the public through open days or visits by appointment. You can see a copy of our insurance certificate if you click the link below.
Fortunately claims are rare, but please make sure to let us know about any incidents or 'near misses' as soon as possible (the same day or next working day for serious incidents - phone 01483 447540). This insurance covers claims for bodily injury and/or property damage suffered by third parties, if Plant Heritage is found to be legally liable. You should not admit liability, and you should take reasonable steps to avoid injury.
Plant Heritage Public Liability Insurance Certificate 2026-27
Please be aware that this covers situations where people have come specifically to see the National Collection. If the garden is opened and publicised in other circumstances e.g. on behalf of the National Garden Scheme or another charity, you should check that you're covered under their insurance. It also doesn't cover any paid staff or damage to your own property.
For more information on Plant Heritage insurance including a copy of the insurance guidelines please contact us. You'll also find this information and useful templates (e.g. for a risk assessment) in the members' zone of the website - login here (go to the 'Resources for local groups and volunteers' page and look under health and safety).
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