14 May 2025
Sarah Simpson crowned Young Horticulturist of the Year 2025
Sarah Simpson, a Horticulture Technician at the Teagasc, College of Amenity Horticulture, National Botanic Gardens, has been named Young Horticulturist of the Year 2025 after winning the Grand Final of the competition at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens on Saturday, May 10.
The competition, organised by the Chartered Institute of Horticulture, brought together eight finalists from across the UK and Ireland and is open to anyone under the age of 30 working or studying in horticulture in the UK or Ireland.
Sarah Simpson was crowned the Young Horticulturist of the Year 2025, pictured receiving the award from David Richardson, President of the Chartered Institute of Horticulture.
As the winner, Sarah received a £2,500 travel bursary from The Percy Thrower Trust, generously provided by the Shropshire Horticultural Society. The bursary offers the opportunity to travel anywhere in the world to study, complete work experience or undertake visits related to Sarah’s preferred field of horticulture.
Sarah is currently studying part-time for a Bachelor of Science in Horticulture at the South East Technological University (SETU), with plans to graduate next year. Sarah’s passion for horticulture is focused on sustainable and ecologically conscious landscape design, combing creative design with a love for nature and wildlife.
Pictured at the Grand Final of the Young Horticulturist of the Year 2025 at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens are from left to right: David Richardson; Claire Woods, Head Gardener, Hillsborough Castle and Gardens; Gareth Austin; Sarah Simpson; Paul Fitters; Sandra Austin; Joseph Croake and Caithríona McCrudden.
Reflecting on the victory, Sarah said: “I competed in the Grand Final of the Young Horticulturist of the Year competition in 2022, and this being the final year before I age out of the competition, I said I would throw my hat in the ring once more.
“I was up against fierce competition but am thrilled to say I finished in first place! I want to thank my colleagues for all their support, particularly Paul Fitters, who has been a fantastic mentor. It was an honour to represent Irish horticulture, particularly on Irish soil.”
Commenting on Sarah’s achievement, Principal of the Teagasc, College of Amenity Horticulture, John Mulhern said: “Sarah’s innovation, dedication, and deep-rooted passion for sustainable horticulture make her a standout in our industry. This award is a well-earned milestone in what we know will be a remarkable career. Sarah is as a valued member of our team, and we are very proud of the achievement.”
More from Teagasc Daily: Growing Futures: The Expanded Role of Horticultural Education in Ireland
More from Teagasc Daily: The multiple benefits of a horticultural apprenticeship
More from Teagasc Daily: More Crops, Less Water: A Case for Smart Irrigation