A unique museum in Sussex dedicated to preserving horticultural history is celebrating a significant milestone this year, marking its 10th birthday with a surge in popularity and an expanding collection that draws visitors from across the globe.
A Decade of Growth and Global Recognition
Founded in 2016 by the Budding Foundation, the Museum of Gardening has established itself as a central hub for fundraising efforts aimed at assisting young people in the county who face financial and support barriers to achieving their aspirations. Since its inception, the charity has successfully raised an impressive £390,000, enabling it to make a tangible difference in the community.
Founder's Vision and Challenges
Clive Gravett, the founder and curator from Lancing, reflected on the journey, stating, "Establishing a new museum is challenging, especially amid rising costs and declining visitor numbers, but our charity's unique partnership with Tates of Sussex has reversed that trend." This collaboration has been instrumental in overcoming obstacles and fostering growth.
Based at South Downs Nurseries, the museum's collection has expanded substantially over the years. It now boasts a range of distinctive and rare items, some of which are considered unique on a global scale. Clive emphasised, "We are well known for our continuous research in horticultural history, and we provide guidance to a variety of organisations around the world, including other museums."
Media Spotlight and Charitable Impact
The museum and its exhibits have garnered widespread media attention, featuring in numerous film, television, radio, and magazine productions. Notable appearances include BBC Gardeners' World in 2021, Susan Calman in 2024, and Ruth Goodman on 'Inside the Factory' broadcast on BBC 1 this year. Additionally, the museum has hosted various radio and television broadcasts, with a feature film awaiting release.
Roots in Gardening and Community Support
Clive's passion for gardening and conservation was nurtured from an early age, with knowledge passed down from his father and grandfather. His commitment to community engagement is evident through years of volunteering at local schools, where he promoted conservation and gardening projects. One notable achievement was designing and constructing one of the first bottle greenhouses, featured by the BBC in 2009.
His dedication was further recognised when he won a prestigious national sunflower-growing competition organised by one of Alan Sugar's companies, leading a small group of children to victory over 800 other schools nationwide.
Inspiring the Next Generation
During his volunteer work, Clive encountered many young people lacking support and resources. Inspired to make a difference, on his 60th birthday, he requested donations to a potential charity fund instead of gifts. This initiative, celebrated as 'CliveFest' at Shoreham Community Centre in July 2013, raised £700, laying the foundation for the Budding Foundation.
The charity is named in honour of Edwin Beard Budding, the inventor of the lawnmower in 1830, reflecting Clive's expertise in vintage lawnmowers. Family-run Tates of Sussex garden centres have been key partners, supporting the charity's mission to empower youth.
Partnership and Future Plans
Benjamin Tate, executive director of Tates of Sussex, commented, "Marking 10 years since the South Downs Heritage Centre was built is a real milestone for all of us. From day one, we wanted it to be more than a building; seeing it thrive with the Museum of Gardening and the positive impact their charity has on young people has been especially rewarding."
He added, "We're proud of what the last decade has achieved, and we've got big plans to keep investing and evolving the centre so the next 10 years are even more exciting."
Clive echoed this sentiment, saying, "It's hard to believe what we've achieved together over the last decade, from building a truly unique collection and uncovering new horticultural knowledge to creating displays that educate and spark curiosity. Working alongside Tates has been a great recipe for success, and we're excited to continue developing the collection and preserving horticultural history for future generations."
The Museum of Gardening is open daily, with free admission, inviting visitors to explore its rich exhibits and learn about the fascinating world of horticulture.
