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The following is a short summary of the habitat type and how to create/enhance it to a "good" condition. For an informed position, please refer to official up-to-date Government guidance or the UK Government's Condition Assessment Sheet.
Synonyms: Commercial horticultural land, nurseries, soft-fruit farms, vegetable plots and flower beds
Description: These are areas dedicated to commercial horticultural activities (if the site is for non-commercial purposes, other habitat types such as non-cereal crops should be selected).
This category includes nurseries, soft-fruit production areas, vegetable plots, and flower beds. These lands are intensively managed for the production and sale of horticultural products. Key activities include the cultivation of field vegetables (e.g., leeks, broccoli, cabbage), fruit-bearing bushes, and ornamental flowering plants for commercial purposes.
If you wish to select this habitat on a habitat selection screen, it can be found under Cropland (see guide).
Horticulture habitats are generally found in areas with fertile soil and favourable climatic conditions for the growth of a wide range of plant species. They can vary significantly in size and are often characterised by their well-maintained appearance and structured planting.
Key Species
Field Vegetables (e.g., Leeks, Broccoli, Cabbage)
Soft-Fruit Varieties (e.g., Strawberries, Raspberries)
Flower Species (varied, depending on the nursery or garden)
Special Notes
This habitat is distinct from traditional agriculture in its focus on smaller-scale, specialised crop production. It often requires more intensive management practices, including regular irrigation, pest control, and targeted fertilisation. The habitat plays a crucial role in supplying local and regional markets with fresh produce and ornamental plants.
Assessment Questions
Is the land used for commercial horticultural purposes?
Are there specific sections dedicated to the cultivation of field vegetables, soft-fruits, or flowers?
Does the area exhibit signs of intensive management, such as structured planting, irrigation systems, or pest control measures?
If YES, then it is likely Cropland - Horticulture
How to Create / Enhance to a "Good" condition
How to create
Can be done in strips or blocks. Note that a competent person should demonstrate an appropriate level of knowledge and experience in creating, enhancing and/or managing arable habitats. You may wish to note that advice will be sought from an agricultural land agent.
You should not create this habitat in:
• cool, north-facing shaded locations, as most seeds will not germinate
• places with perennial and arable grass weed problems (Source: HM Government)
How to get a "moderate" rating
It is not possible to get a moderate rating for this habitat
How to get a "good" rating
It is not possible to get a good rating for this habitat
Please note that this is a simple guide to help identify the habitat. For a definitive description, please refer to UKHab documentation. Joe's Blooms takes no responsibility for the content of external links.