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Surrey Heath In Bloom 2008 Judging Update

Surrey Heath In Bloom 2008 Judging Update

Green Spaces Manager Leigh Thornton updates us on the judging of Surrey Heath In Bloom 2008

As the newly appointed Green Spaces Manager I was delighted to take part in judging some of the categories for Surrey Heath in Bloom. To me, this is a really important scheme and encourages some real hands on action in the Borough - lots of good digging and planting which transforms many small green ( and not so green!) spaces into delightful spots for all to see.

I must say I was bowled over by some of the entries! Some superb blasts of colour and fabulous planting schemes were really eye catching. As a failing gardener myself I know just how much work must have gone in to making hanging baskets that were so vibrant and garden schemes which dazzled. I particularly liked looking at the School gardens and seeing how much the children had been involved in designing, planting and maintaining. It was pleasing to see so many schools growing their own vegetables and using it as part of the curriculum - including cookery of course!

At the end of the day, Surrey Heath in Bloom is a competition - and that means winners and of course some losers. I would encourage those that didn't win this year to keep at it and have a go next year. Everybody's efforts were, in my opinion, worthy of praise and have really helped the Borough look so good. So don't despair - you are all brilliant!

Some top tips? Well, make sure everything is watered and healthy looking. Also, try some variety in your planting - perhaps with some less well known plant varieties - or something a bit unusual. I particularly like to see some longevity - perhaps the use of perennials and colourful shrubs in addition to good old bedding; I like to think about what the garden would look like in the months following the judging.

But, if you really want to get my votes next year, I'd like to see some colourful vegetables (such as the chard varieties, different coloured lettuces, flowering runner beans up a wall, etc.) in amongst the bedding for colour, variety, novelty and of course good eating!