Gardening expert and Sunday Times best-selling author, Huw Richards, has collaborated with GARDENA, Europe’s leading brand for watering and hand tools, to launch a nationwide search for Britain’s best plot or outdoor space. The competition, titled “Top of the Plots”, is supported by The National Allotment Society (NAS) and will reward the UK’s finest gardeners with £1,000 worth of GARDENA products to help their spaces flourish.
Mike Farrell, Chairman of the National Allotment Society, emphasized the importance of allotments in communities and expressed his excitement for the initiative. He stated, “Allotments have been at the heart of communities for generations, providing food security, a place to connect, and a way to care for the environment. Top of the Plots is a brilliant way to highlight their importance. At NAS, we know how vital these spaces are—not just for food, but for mental well-being, education, and social connection. We’re excited to support this initiative and see the incredible plots from across the country.”
The competition comes at a time when allotment demand is at an all-time high, as gardening is increasingly recognized for its physical and mental health benefits, as well as its role in sustainable living and food security. Huw Richards, head judge and GARDENA Ambassador, expressed the purpose of the competition, saying, “Top of the Plots is more than just a competition to find the best plot. It’s about inspiring more people to grow their own food, whether they have a large garden or just a windowsill. We want to show that everyone, regardless of experience, can be a grower and make a meaningful contribution to sustainability.”
The competition will highlight a variety of gardening achievements, including the perfect allotment plot, windowsill wonders, and community spaces. Categories include Best Allotment, Best Garden Plot, Best New Plot, Kids on the Plot, Best Small Plot, Biodiversity on the Plot, and Best Community Plot. The winner of the competition will receive £1,000 worth of GARDENA products and a champion’s plaque. The first 100 entrants will also receive exclusive Top of the Plots merchandise.
Mike Farrell reiterated the importance of allotments in communities and expressed hope for the competition to inspire more people to create their own gardening spaces. He said, “Allotments are not just about growing food—they’re about connecting people to nature and each other. We hope this competition will inspire more people to create their own gardening spaces and showcase the vital role allotments play in communities.”
Huw Richards shared his enthusiasm for the competition, stating, “Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, this competition is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the joy of cultivating your produce and connecting with nature.”
The National Allotment Society invites all gardening enthusiasts to participate in Top of the Plots and celebrate the power of growing their own food, fostering biodiversity, and creating beautiful, sustainable plots. For more information and to enter, visit https://www.gardena.com/uk.
Contact:
Charlotte Watts
Press Officer, National Allotment Society
Marketing@Thenas.org,uk
Distributed by https://pressat.co.uk/
