AGM (Award of Garden Merit)

You may have noticed the letters "AGM" emblazoned proudly on selected plant pages. This refers to the Royal Horticultural Society's (RHS) Award of Garden Merit.

This award is not given out lightly; the RHS trials plants extensively. The award is given to plants that meet the following criteria:Plant is of outstanding excellence for ordinary garden decoration or use
Is excellent for ordinary use in appropriate conditions
Is available in the UK
Is of good constitution
Is essentially stable in form and colour
Is reasonably resistant to pests and diseases

The award is given out annually after the assessment is carried out by the society's committees. Committees draw upon the knowledge and experience of a wide range of members, including nurserymen, specialist growers, and well-known horticulturists. These assessments generally last at least one year, depending on the type of plant being trialled, and take place in various RHS gardens and specialist collections all over the UK.

Though growing conditions and plant types may vary, the purpose of the award is always the same: to highlight the best plants available to the home gardener. The AGM is for the benefit of beginners and experienced gardeners alike. Whatever your gardening needs, this award can help you to make an informed choice.