Group of Cornish gardens unite on global conservation mission

A group of 14 gardens in Cornwall are working to conserve rare species and protect the natural environment amid climate concerns.

The collective, known as the Great Gardens of Cornwall, consists of prestigious gardens and estates from across the county and Isles of Scilly.

These landmarks are adopting world-leading practices to safeguard Cornish landscapes, taking into account our pressing climate crisis.

Charles Williams, owner of the Caerhays Estate, spoke about the initiative, saying: "Cornwall’s microclimate and unique geology make it home to a number of globally rare species and habitats in need of our protection.

"As climate change takes hold it will increase the environmental pressures that face Cornwall’s wildlife and wild places, many of which are already in decline.

"We must continue to garden with the health of our soil, waterways and wildlife at the forefront of our mind."

Each garden of this collective contributes to the environmental cause, aiming to protect and nurture rare species and setting a global example.

These gardens have official safe sites and dedicated propagation facilities, which allow threatened species to escape their endangered status.

(Image: Great Gardens of Cornwall)

Notably, Tregothnan is a global ‘safe site’ harbouring endangered trees including the Wollemi Pine, a species thought extinct for over 50 million years, but now thriving and even producing cuttings for worldwide reintroduction.

The Eden Project, also part of this venture, is a global green movement that contemplates the breadth and depth of the natural world.

Moreover, Tresco Abbey Garden protects and fosters the growing population of endangered red squirrels, providing a much-needed sanctuary.

(Image: Great Gardens of Cornwall)

Events like the upcoming 'Restore Nature Now' march on June 22 in London, supported by several environmental organisations and the Great Gardens, aim to improve public awareness of conservation needs.

The Cornwall gardens encourage everyone to become aware of their impact on the natural world and emphasise the importance of preserving the environment.

All of these Cornish gardens share a mission: preserving wildlife habitats, conserving rare species, and propagating valuable plant genetic material as they confront increasing environmental pressures.

For more information, visit The Great Gardens of Cornwall website via www.greatgardensofcornwall.co.uk.