Monday May 12th, International Day of Plant Health 2025 was recognized. This year’s theme is: “The Importance of Plant Health in One Health”.

The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Marine Resources – St. Kitts in a social media post stated the theme “reminds us that plants aren’t just a part of nature — they’re a part of us. From healing ecosystems to healing people, the health of plants directly influences the health of animals, humans, and our entire planet.”

The day also highlights a need for global cooperation to ensure food security, prevent crop loss especially against factors such as environmental threats such as natural hazards as well as to mitigate economic and environmental consequences of plant pests.

According to the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization, 40% of global food crops are lost yearly due to pests and diseases.

The ministry encourages individuals to “Plant a tree, grow a garden, or simply stop and admire the leaves swaying in the breeze; because when we care for plants, we care for everything!”