What better way to celebrate my MBE for services to Plant Science Education than to share the news with friends and neighbours at my annual seedling swap, where everyone brings and swaps surplus seedlings, mostly veg for the season but occasionally other plants too. Of course we catch up on other news as well over a cuppa, and this time a glass of fizz too.
It’s also a means to get to know neighbours – especially if you invite someone whose garden space is enviable and looks like they know what they’re doing. There’s usually someone each year who is keen, but nervous, to start growing and they take away a plant or two plus advice from someone which gets them started.
This weekend I have also been able to reflect a little on what plant science education is and I will write more on my blog in time. For now, the MBE has already enabled chat and raised awareness of the importance of plant science across a whole range of people. That’s very good.
If anyone’s interested in starting their own seedling swap and wants any further tips, please get in touch.