Investment is being sought to exhibit an orchard garden at this year’s RHS Flower Show, Tatton Park in Cheshire.

The Orchard Project show garden will be an orchard with a modern twist and its prime purpose is to raise the public's awareness of the importance of orchards and British fruit growers.

With the backing of the UK fruit industry, it is hoped it will raise the issues of preserving unique habitats, fruit heritage and buying British, with the idea of encouraging people to make their own gardens more resourceful and environment-friendly.

In return for those who get involved through investment, the Orchard Project garden will serve as a national publicity platform for promoting British fruit and orchards.

A detailed marketing plan has also been put together to ensure maximum press coverage building up to the show on 21-25 July and following the event.

Sharon Hockenhull, gardener at the Plantswoman Gardening Services, told freshinfo: “I have been approaching organisations that will benefit from increased exposure for the UK fruit industry. It has been very positive so far but to stage the orchard the budget needs to be met and more companies brought on board.

“It is an excellent opportunity in terms of marketing to get people engaged with UK fruit and encourage people to actively seek out British-grown fruit during their weekly shops.”

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