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The Scottish Rhododendron Society has established the Education and Exploration Grant Fund which will award grants of up to £1,000 to young horticulturists and gardeners to pursue research and further study primarily into the genus Rhododendron.
This could include study tours and exploration to observe rhododendrons in their natural habitat.
Applications can now be submitted for next year. See below for Information for Applicants and the Application Form.
Funds are limited and applications will be accepted on a first come first served basis. Please see the application forms below.
FAQ
Do I need to be a member of the SRS to successfully apply for a grant?
No. The grant is available to SRS members and non-members alike, however, becoming a member is a good opportunity to build a network of contacts with like minded people.
My trip to the Sino-Himalaya costs quite a bit more than £1,000. Can I apply for more?
The current maximum is limited to £1,000. Many applicants get funding from several sources.
Will I get awarded another grant if I have already had a successful request for a previous expedition?
Normally only one award will be made.
I live out with Scotland. Can I apply?
Yes. The award is open to anyone resident in the UK.
Can I get funding to attend rhododendron workshops, conferences and other training?
Yes. Such applications will be considered.
Each application is considered on an individual basis. Applicants are encouraged to contact philip@scottishrhododendronsociety.org.uk to discuss any issues.
Exploration…
Our first successful applicant received financial assistance in 2023. Richard Moore joined a botanical expedition to Nepal gaining invaluable experience in studying a wide range of plants growing in their natural habitat. Nepal is home to many plants we have growing in our gardens today along with many other rare and endangered species.
Our second recipient Colin Jones, took part in a botanical expedition to NW Yunnan during 2024. A presentation was given during the SRS/RSCG Autumn conference 2024 highlighting many botanical treasures, landscapes and reference to historical plant hunters.
Education…
In 2023 the Scottish Rhododendron E&E fund was used to subsidise a propagation workshop. This made it accessible to a wide range of participants ranging from professional gardeners, students and enthusiastic amateurs. This successful event consisted of practical demonstrations on how to propagate Rhododendrons from both seed and cuttings.
The E&E fund continues to subsidise many of our Autumn conferences to make them more accessible to those wishing to learn about rhododendrons.