During this edition of our traditional conference excursion, delegates were treated to a tour featuring 4 noteworthy speakers. Following a welcome and lunch, they began with Horticulturist and Veitch Historian Caradoc Doy, introducing the Veitch seed collectors’ legacy.
Simon Toomer, National Specialist for Plant Conservation at The National Trust, presented on the complexities of maintaining an historical tree collection for today’s public benefit before Karl Emeleus, Head Gardener on the estate, gave us the nitty-gritty of historical conservation site management and maintenance.
The afternoon closed with final discussions and questions following a talk on tree and plant propagation issues and biosecurity, from the Plant Propagation Manager for The National Trust, Chris Trimmer.
On their return to the University of Exeter, delegates were able to enjoy the presentations to the winners of the Tree Climbing Competition under ISA rules, which will took place throughout Sunday at Reed Hall.