Gardens in bloom for summer competition

Green-fingered residents showcase their skills in our recent gardening competition 

Our residents take great pride in personalising their own outdoor space. Whether it’s in the form of a flower garden, vegetable patch, or some pots of their favourite flowers placed artfully to brighten the surroundings. 

Over the summer months we held a gardening competition which was open to residents, encouraging them to make the most of their gardens while enjoying the physical and mental benefits of being outdoors. Everyone, from the seasoned gardener to the newbie, was able to take part and present the spaces they have lovingly crafted.

Residents were encouraged to submit up to two photos or videos of their beloved gardens, and the categories they could enter included best basket and tub, best communal garden, and best vegetable patch. The competition ran over a period of 8 weeks, concluding at the end of July. Entries are now being judged and the winners are expected to be announced in the next few weeks. 

Gardening for peaceful enjoyment or to connect with others   

Those who entered our competition this year took great pride in their outdoor spaces and enjoyed gardening for various reasons. Margaret Stirling of Challond Court said: 

Gardening keeps me active, both mentally and physically and is great for my all-round wellbeing. 

Whereas although Ken Cheal from Pollard Court was grateful for the gardeners, he missed growing his own fruit and vegetables and slowly started to create his own vegetable patch. He said: 

So, I started off with a few pots spaced around our Drying lines area just tomatoes at first, now I grow at least 10 different vegetables in containers, pots and even buckets. 

Gardening has so many benefits both physically and mentally. Some may find gardening therapeutic, while others may find it rewarding growing their own food. For some, it is a solitary activity and a time to reflect whereas other people might prefer the teamwork involved in cultivating an attractive space.  

Gardening is just one way our residents can enjoy the great outdoors. Every spring and summer our locations across England we organise a whole host of outdoor activities, from alfresco dining to sports events. There is something for all our residents to participate in, as everyone should have the opportunity to enjoy the benefits of outside spaces. 

Take a look at our other initiatives here and stay tuned to find out the lucky winners of our garden completition!