RCHS – Royal Caledonian Horticultural Society

Gentiana 'The Caley'

Scotland’s National Horticultural & Gardening Society

The Royal Caledonian Horticultural Society (The Caley) has a long and impressive history. Established in 1809 for ‘the encouragement and improvement of the best fruit, the most choice flowers and the most useful culinary vegetables‘, the Society has continued to promote all aspects of Scottish horticulture. Current members of the Society, many of whom are experts in their field, share a common interest in gardening and horticulture.

The Society seeks to promote, encourage and support a wide range of horticultural and gardening interests, including a range of educational projects. Helping to promote horticulture to the next generation of gardeners and horticulturists in Scotland.

Growing in Scotland is different.

One size does not fit all. Scotland’s weather is changeable, sometimes referred to as four seasons in a day! Temperature is generally lower than the rest of the UK, although it is slightly warmer on the West Coast than the East Coast. Lower light levels, lots of rain and wind all contribute to a wide variation of growing conditions across Scotland.

The Caley supports and encourages gardening in Scotland, sharing knowledge and experience of growing in Scottish conditions.

Get involved!

Join the Caley

Donate to the Caley Glasshouse Fund

Although the glasshouse is very nearly complete it is already being used as an educational resource for courses and to produce plants. However, we are still fundraising and welcome donations.

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Volunteering with The Caley

Members of The Caley have volunteer gardening sessions on Monday and Friday mornings at Saughton Park.

There are also occasional ‘dig days’ at Saughton Park, weekly volunteering on the Caley’s Demonstration Allotment at Bridgend, Edinburgh, as well as volunteer opportunities at shows and events.

Grow & Learn Awards

The Caley’s flagship award, recognising individual progress and achievement, in horticulture. Our awards are inclusive, individualised and offer life skills based education for all.

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