Islington in Bloom, which is run jointly by the council and Islington Gardeners, is now open for nominations – and absolutely anyone can take part.
Islington’s much-loved gardening competition, Islington in Bloom, has returned for another season of colour, creativity, and community spirit—and this year, the invitation to take part is more inclusive than ever. Run in partnership by Islington Council and the volunteer group Islington Gardeners, the competition is now officially open for nominations, encouraging residents, community groups, and local businesses to transform their spaces into blooming havens.
With the addition of a brand-new category exclusively for balconies, this year’s competition aims to broaden participation, particularly among people living in flats or on housing estates. The hope is that the new “Best Balcony” award will inspire more residents to create pocket-sized gardens in their own high-rise corners of the borough, turning concrete ledges into lush, colourful sanctuaries.
Far from being a contest only for seasoned horticulturalists, Islington in Bloom actively encourages novices and gardening newcomers to get involved. Whether you tend a flower-filled tree pit, care for a container garden, or lovingly maintain a window box, there is a place for you in this borough-wide celebration of green spaces. No garden is too small, and no experience is necessary—just a passion for plants and a desire to make Islington a more vibrant, welcoming place to live.
Dorothy Boswell, a judge from Islington Gardeners, says that creativity and ecological awareness often count for more than picture-perfect displays. “We’re not looking for manicured perfection,” she explains. “What we really love are the entries that make room for biodiversity, even if they’re a bit wild or scruffy. The use of repurposed or found materials is always a joy to see. This is about connecting with nature and contributing to your community’s wellbeing.”
Boswell also emphasised that participants don’t even need to be the gardener themselves—they can nominate green spaces they admire or ones they find inspiring in their daily routines. “Recognising the efforts of others with a surprise nomination can be such a lovely way to say thank you,” she added.
The competition supports Islington Council’s wider mission to create a greener, healthier borough. Councillor Rowena Champion, the Council’s Executive Member for Environment, Air Quality and Transport, highlighted the broader impact of the competition. “We know gardening brings so many benefits—from reducing stress and improving mental health to building friendships and giving people a stronger connection to their neighbourhood,” she said. “But it’s also a vital part of our fight against the climate crisis. Greener spaces provide habitat for wildlife, help manage stormwater, and cool the urban environment.”
As Islington faces increasing environmental and health challenges, the competition serves as both a creative outlet and a practical tool to help residents respond with care, intention and beauty. Every year, the variety and ingenuity of the entries offer a snapshot of how communities across the borough are working together—plant by plant—to brighten their surroundings.
This year’s categories range from “Best Community Garden” and “Best Park” to more whimsical titles such as “Best Hidden Gem” and “Best Tree Pit Garden.” There’s even a category for local shops to compete for “Best Blooming Business,” encouraging commercial premises to join in the borough-wide beautification.
The deadline for submissions is Friday 6 June. Full details on how to apply, along with information about the different categories, can be found on the council’s website at www.islington.gov.uk/inbloom.
For those interested in volunteering or learning more about gardening opportunities across Islington’s parks and green spaces, further resources and support are available on the council’s website. Meanwhile, anyone thinking about greening their balcony can access guidance on how to do so safely via the Royal Horticultural Society.
As spring blooms into summer, Islington in Bloom invites everyone—from first-time growers to green-fingered veterans—to get involved, grow something beautiful, and help the borough flourish.
