Following a Scottish Parliamentary event earlier this year to discuss the Environmental Horticulture Growth Strategy for Scotland, many MSPs have pledged to plant a tree in their community. The initiative is kindly sponsored by members of the Horticultural Trades Association (HTA). Growforth in Dunfermline is one of those supporting this good cause. Annabelle Ewing MSP for Cowdenbeath, visited her local plant centre to accept two Japanese Maples, which will now be planted in Crossgates. Crossgates Greenfingers Chairman Gordon Black and Cynthia Black, the Treasurer, were delighted to welcome the donation of the trees from MSP Annabelle Ewing on behalf of the local community. Annabelle Ewing MSP, commented: “I am delighted to pledge to plant these trees for this worthy cause organised by the HTA and would like to thank Stan and his team at Growforth for sponsoring our tree. We have found a perfect spot at the entrance to Lady Anne Court. “Environmental Horticulture is so important to Scotland’s biodiversity, health, mitigating climate change and creating jobs.” Stan Green, Director of Growforth, said: “We welcomed Annabelle, who is a great advocate for gardening, and we are happy to provide the Acers to be planted and enjoyed by the community.” Horticulture and landscaping supported contributions of £2.8bn towards GDP and over 64,000 jobs in Scotland in 2019. This has the potential to rise significantly by 2030. The HTA has been working closely with MSPs and the Scottish Government to produce the Growth strategy, which has seven key ambitions for Scotland: Health – to create a healthier Scotland through horticulture Economy – develop green economic growth, high-quality jobs, and invest in education/skills Environment – to mitigate climate change Local – increase the use of Scottish and UK-grown plants as import substitution Industry – drive Scottish growth through investment, development grants and reducing the cost of doing business Urban Nature – produce a greener planning system Biosecurity – enhance and protect Scotland’s natural capital. Further info can be found here: https://hta.org.uk/policy/scotland