S1E2 - Gwen Hines - CEO Plant Heritage, "Keepers of the National Collections"

What does it really mean to preserve plants in a changing world? In this episode of Keepers of the Green, I’m joined by Gwen Hines, CEO of Plant Heritage, to explore the vital role of the UK’s National Plant Collections in plant conservation, horticulture, and biodiversity preservation. These collections are more than gardens—they are living archives of rare plants, heritage varieties, and specialist knowledge, carefully maintained to protect the future of our natural environment. From sustainable horticulture to biodiversity conservation, they play a critical role in safeguarding plant diversity across the UK. We discuss how plant collections are built, documented, and passed on—ensuring that both plants and horticultural knowledge survive for future generations. We explore the balance between conserving wild species and cultivated varieties, and how gardeners, growers, and conservationists can contribute to protecting plant heritage. As climate change and environmental pressures reshape our landscapes, we also ask: how do we decide which plants to prioritise, and what does resilience look like in modern gardening and conservation? This episode is for anyone interested in gardening, biodiversity, plant conservation, horticulture, and sustainable landscapes—from experienced collectors to those just starting out. And importantly, we explore how you can get involved—whether as a gardener, enthusiast, or future plant collector—and play a role in protecting the UK’s living plant heritage. If you would like to know more please check out the website at https://www.plantheritage.org.uk Plant Heritage was previously known as NCCPG, the National Council for the Conservation of Plants and Gardens. Photo: Rob Price, paeonia mlokosewitschii in his own garden.