Patience Atkinson-Gregory of horticultural suppliers Amberol offers some useful advice for councils, businesses and communities striving for success in Britain in Bloom.
Britain in Bloom is one of the UK’s greatest community achievements. It brings together people from different backgrounds, generations, cultures and organisations with the common goal of improving the place where they live and work. As such, it is an initiative that should be celebrated and supported by businesses, community groups and local authorities.
Councils up and down the country put many hours and resources into the annual In Bloom competition, which celebrates its 50th anniversary at a time of reduced budgets and fierce competition for funding. Many entries are, of course, heavily dependent upon the support and participation of volunteers.
As horticultural suppliers, we have many years’ experience in helping local authorities and community groups put together their In Bloom entries. Here we summarise some key tips to help ensure a successful entry.
Amberol’s 15 top tips
1. Know the criteria.
It’s important to know the key success criteria and what the judges are looking for. Full guidelines and a breakdown of the mark scheme in the form of a downloadable pdf can be found on the RHS website at www.rhs.org.uk/Gardening/Community-gardening/Britain-in-Bloom/.
To summarise, the competition is judged on three main criteria:
• Horticultural achievement
• Environmental responsibility
• Community participation.
These concepts need to underpin an entry and be demonstrable to the judges.
Horticultural achievement
This accounts for 50% of the total available marks. Judges are looking for initiatives which have improved the community in five key areas: impact, horticultural practice, residential and community gardening, business areas and premises, and green spaces.
2. An annual theme.
Each year the Britain in Bloom campaign has a focus. Last year’s edible plant theme has been replaced with an incentive to plant golden pollinator-friendly flowers as part of the 2014 golden anniversary.
Whilst it isn’t essential to include elements of the year’s theme in an entry, it is worth bearing in mind.
3. A plan for 365 days a year.
Although the main judging takes place in the summer, the judges are looking for evidence of a year-round campaign. Any plans for autumn and winter displays should be well documented with visual evidence such as photos and video, as well as supporting documentation.
4. The benefits of containers.
These add variety, providing visual interest -and are more easily moved than beds. They also range in size from small planters to giant containers with sufficient depth to grow larger plants and trees. There are a wide variety on the market, including promenade planters to enhance walkways and building frontages, and giant floral fountain planters to create a stunning display. Choosing self watering planters also ensures less maintenance and a more ecologically friendly bid.
5. Cultivate the wilderness.
The inclusion of ‘wild’ areas is looked upon favourably by judges. Although lower maintenance, these areas will still need to be planned and planted as part of your entry, with accompanying documentation where relevant.
6. Grow your own.
Edible plants are also looked upon favourably by the judges and can be grown as part of school gardens, in private allotments or even as part of communal displays. Some groups have created recipe ideas and held cookery demonstrations using the edible produce they have grown.
7. Above eye level.
Hanging baskets are notoriously demanding in terms of maintenance, but look fantastic and draw the eye to different levels. Select robust plants that will need minimum maintenance and consider investing in self watering hanging baskets which require watering only once weekly – even in the hottest, driest conditions.
Environmental responsibility
Worth 25% of the overall marks available, this section focuses on five areas: conservation and biodiversity, resource management, local heritage, local environment quality and pride of place.
8. On the street.
Street furniture is an important part of the environment, so take a look at where it is positioned and what it is made of. There is an increasing trend for street furniture to be made of recycled materials such as Plaswood. If funds allow, invest in appropriate street furniture in keylocations so people can sit and appreciate the results of your efforts.
9. Bin it.
If litter is an issue, it might be necessary to invest in some new litter bins. Look at where bins are currently located and how well used they are. If possible, install recycling bins; there are a wide range available on the market,including dual bins and talking litter bins, both of which have proven very successful in increasing litter collection in school grounds and public areas.
10. Conserve water.
Sustainability and environmental concerns play a very important part in any entry. Our In Bloom clients find that our self watering containers are well received by the judges as not only do they save time and labour, but more importantly, they conserve water by releasing continual moisture to plants, reducing the likelihood of overwatering.
Community participation
This accounts for 25% of the total marks available and consists of five sections: development and continuity, community and education, community involvement, year-round involvement and funding and support.
11. Make it everybody’s business.
Businesses may be able to offer funding or sponsorship – but this shouldn’t be their only purpose. Britain in Bloom has significant benefits for businesses as well as residents and visitors. Infact, areas with successful In Bloom initiatives often bring increased revenueto the area, as well as higher footfall and reduced vacancy rates.
Commercial advantages.
12. Involve the younger generation.
Children love growing things, so get them involved. Britain in Bloom can be seen as something for the older generationand those who are retired, but the competition sets high store on education, the involvement of future generations and active participation from young people. Go into schools and colleges and talk to the students about what is happening and how they can be involved. Initiate planting schemes at playgroups, youth clubs, schools etc.
13. Use the technology.
Social media is a great free tool. Set up a Britain in Bloom Facebook page, You Tube channel or Twitter account to spread the word and to communicate more effectively with the youth market.
The judging
A maximum of four people can accompany the judges on their tour and answer any questions that they may have.
14. Plan the route.
Before judging, ask independent observers to walk the route,compile a snagging list and give their feedback. Aim to showcase a range of activity, including as much of the community as possible. If areas still need work, include plans for their further development in your entry.
15. Manning the route.
Although only four people should accompany the judges, you can arrange for volunteers/participants to be stationed at differentfeatures to speak about what they have done and to demonstrate the range of community involvement. Build in time for judges to speak with people along the route.
To receive a copy of Amberol’s free guide with 50 tips for a successful Britain in Bloom entry, call 01773 830 930 or email sales@amberol.co.uk
About Amberol
Established in 1969, Amberol is a family run company that supplies a wide range of planters, self watering containers, benches and litter bins (including speaking ones) to the general public, local authorities, schools and businesses. For more information,visit www.amberol.co.uk, email sales@amberol.co.uk