Biosecurity at the Garden
What is Biosecurity?
Biosecurity is a set of preventative measures, protocols, and actions designed to reduce the introduction and spread of harmful organisms, such as viruses, bacteria, fungi, and pests, into ecosystems, farms and human populations.
Our Biosecurity Policy outlines the commitment of Chelsea Physic Garden to safeguard plant health, prevent the introduction and spread of pests, diseases and invasive species and promote responsible practices in plant management and international plant exchange and trade. Risks arise because of plant pathogens being transported due to the global movement of plants and the stresses of a changing climate.
By implementing robust biosecurity measures, engaging in collaboration and raising public awareness, we are aiming to safeguard our collections, preserve the surrounding ecosystems and contribute to the broader efforts of plant biosecurity and conservation.
Why is it important?
Biosecurity best practice is increasingly crucial because of the increased frequency of pest and disease outbreaks. Climate Change has meant that plants, already stressed in drought or surprise weather events, are more susceptible to pests than before. Plants and other living things moving in and around the garden may bring hitchhikers that may infest our collection such as Phytophthora or Oak Processionary moths.
We are committed to sustainable horticultural practices including protecting our historic, scientific plant collection and the broader ecosystem of London and the UK. The Garden has developed a Biosecurity Policy and processes to support this work and is a member of the International Plant Sentinel Network, sharing information about new pests and diseases.
Our Aims:
Ensure we meet all legal requirements for managing plant pests and diseases by reporting risks promptly, complying with regulations and effectively controlling all pest categories.
Protect plant collections and ecosystems by ensuring we apply proactive biosecurity measures, including acquisition and disposal policies, risk assessments and quarantine procedures.
Carefully manage biosecurity risks to support the long-term health, sustainability and reputation of the Garden while enabling a safe and welcoming environment for visitors and activities.
How can you help?
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Biosecurity at home.
Source your new plants carefully.
Plant health issues are often introduced through new plants, so prioritise sourcing UK-grown stock from trusted suppliers. Avoid bringing plants, seeds, flowers, fruit, or vegetables back from abroad, as this is a common pathway for pests and diseases entering the UK. You can also quarantine your plants in an isolated part of your garden for a few weeks to monitor them before adding them to your plant collection.
Encourage biodiversity in your garden.
Stressed plants are more likely to be affected by plant health issues, so make sure they stay healthy by promoting wildlife-friendly practices in your garden. Encouraging a variety of beneficial organisms, including insects, fungi and bacteria, will reduce the risk of unwelcome pests. Why not try making leaf mulch from healthy fallen leaves? It’s great for wildlife, and improves soil health.
