Gardens chairman Ken Page said that for most of its 35 years the organisation has relied on grants from government departments and sponsorship from local businesses to help with special projects, such as the The Fernery, the new 'welcome' sign and carvings and murals from Aboriginal artists such as Jason Russell.

"However, our day-to-day operations have been funded by gate takings, our café and the sale of plants, but as of June 28, when we were forced to close our doors due to the COVID-19 lockdown, that funding has all dried up," Mr Page said.

"We have had almost 200 volunteers stood down and all major events, weddings, functions and tours postponed or cancelled.

"This not only means that our visitors, staff and volunteers are missing out on the beautiful blooms and the scent of spring in the air, but also that plants for sale in our nursery, that have been carefully selected and propagated by our dedicated volunteers, have no home to go to."

The 140 hectare site has been one of the Hunter's leading environmental tourist destinations in addition to a centre for research, education and knowledge sharing on botanical matters for the Hunter region.

"We are a leading conservation area for wild flowers and animals and an abundance of different bird species. Of the hundreds of plant species, predominantly natives, the biggest drawcards on display are our succulents and orchids. More recently the rainforest and Aboriginal plant areas have drawn more attention," Mr Page said.

He added that following last year's initial lockdown visitation had increased substantially and Dine & Discover NSW vouchers had been very popular, but this lockdown had plunged them back into hibernation.

"We cannot wait to welcome back all visitors, tourists, staff and volunteers when we are able to, but in the meantime we would value your support during this difficult financial time. We are a not for profit organisation and registered charity, managed, maintained and developed by volunteers from the local community."

To donate go to huntergardens.org.au/support-the-gardens.

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