Responsible gardening for peak plant health

A plant passport contains vital information required for the trade of seeds, cuttings, plants, and trees between businesses in the EU. Plant passports are mandatory to identify the origins of plants and plant products, ensuring traceability and compliance with plant health regulations

Plants are an integral part of the environment in which we live — they give us the oxygen we breathe, they are part of the water cycle, and they are inextricably linked to the soil. They are the primary source of all food; and not only do plants feed us, but they are also used in textiles, drugs, building materials... and 1001 other uses.

However, protecting plant health is not a simple task. Plant pests and disease outbreaks have contributed to massive food shortages and famines over the years including in Ireland during the Great Famine of 1845-1852.

International travel and trade, which have increased significantly in the last 20 years, can quickly lead to the spread of pests and diseases around the world.

In addition, climate change and human activity are altering our native ecosystems and creating openings where non-native pests can thrive and cause significant damage. In this global context, and the many challenges we face, it is positive to know that Ireland is recognised as having a favourable plant health status which means that many of the pests and diseases of plants which are present elsewhere are still absent from Ireland.

In response to the threats to plant health, Ireland has joined the #PlantHealth4Life campaign, a collaborative effort led by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and the European Commission (EC), involving 22 European member states. This initiative aims to engage citizens from all walks of life — including travellers, gardeners, and parents — in safeguarding plant health.

Garden designer, Diarmuid Gavin; Senator Pippa Hackett, Minister of State for Land Use and Biodiversity with special responsibility for Horticulture; and Louise Byrne, Chief Plant Health Officer for Ireland. The #PlantHealth4Life campaign urges travellers not to bring back any plants, flowers, seeds, fruits, or vegetables from outside the EU, as these items may harbour plant pests or diseases detrimental to native flora. Picture: Maxwells

This campaign is aligned with the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine’s Plant Health and Biosecurity Strategy 2020-2025, which sets out the importance of plant health and biosecurity for Ireland.

Across both campaigns, the main message is that it is critically important that all stakeholders are aware of the risks to plant health in Ireland, and their roles and responsibilities to reduce that risk. Simple actions such as sourcing plants from trusted home producers, avoiding taking plants, flowers and fruit back to Ireland from holidays abroad or cleaning your boots after a forest walk all contribute to maintaining plant health and biosecurity. 

Plant health is fundamental to our health and the health of our planet, so we must take concrete actions to safeguard plants and reduce the risks that threaten their health.

Whether you're an experienced gardener or a novice, there are simple yet impactful steps you can take to ensure your garden thrives while safeguarding the environment.

Here are some practical tips from the #PlantHealth4Life campaign to help you get started:

Pest management

Pest control is a critical aspect of gardening, but it’s important to manage pests in an environmentally friendly way. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) combines biological, cultural, and mechanical practices to keep pests at bay with minimal chemical use. For instance, introducing beneficial insects like ladybugs can help control aphids, while crop rotation and companion planting can reduce the risk of pest infestations. Regular monitoring and early intervention are crucial to prevent pests from causing significant damage.

Choose the right plants

Selecting plants that are well-suited to your garden's conditions is essential for their health and vitality. Consider factors like soil type, sunlight, and climate when choosing plants. Native plants are particularly advantageous as they are adapted to local conditions, require less maintenance, and are more resistant to pests and diseases. By matching plants to their preferred environments, you reduce stress and create a thriving, balanced garden.

Maintaining a balanced garden

Regular pest control is crucial for preventing the spread of diseases and maintaining optimal plant health. While some pests and diseases are not immediately visible, it is good practice to keep an eye on your plants and tackle any potential threats as soon as you spot them. If you are unsure what sort of pest you are dealing with, you can check the EPPO database for information on more than 1,800 pest species.

#PlantHealth4Life campaign, led by the EFSA, the European Commission (EC), is active in 22 European member states. Ireland has joined the European-wide collaborative effort to engage citizens from all walks of life — the intrepid traveller, the conscientious gardener, and the vigilant parent — in safeguarding plant health.

Let only inspected plants in

If you buy plants online from outside the EU, ask for a plant health certificate (i.e. a phytosanitary certificate). Also, when swapping plants and seeds with other plant lovers, ask them where they came from. If they have come from outside the EU, ask if the plants came with a certificate. When buying in a shop or garden centre, you’ll see that many plants have a plant passport instead. These documents certify that the plants are free from pests and diseases. Don’t open your door to unwelcome guests!

Travel smart

Responsible gardening also extends beyond your backyard. When travelling abroad, it’s important to be mindful of the risks associated with transporting plants and plant products. Bringing home plants, seeds, or fruits from other regions can introduce pests and diseases that threaten local plant health. Adhering to customs regulations and avoiding the transportation of plant material from outside the EU can help protect our ecosystems.

Teach the next generation

Teaching children about the importance of plants and plant health is also vital for a sustainable future. By fostering an understanding of how plants contribute to our lives and the environment, we can empower the next generation to become responsible stewards of nature. Encourage curiosity about plants, involve children in gardening activities, and discuss the vital role of plants in food production and ecosystem health.

We all have a role to play in protecting plant health. By raising awareness, taking action and supporting initiatives like the #PlantHealth4Life campaign, we can all contribute to a healthier, more sustainable future for ourselves and our planet.

• For more information on #PlantHealth4Life and how you can get involved click here.

• Dr Deirdre Fay is a senior inspector at the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine