Published on 6th June 2016

Purple and white flowers

Cheltenham’s gardening enthusiasts and businesses are invited to take part in the annual Cheltenham in Bloom garden competition this summer

The competition is open to everyone, no matter how big or small your plot or windowsill! Show off your creative planting or landscaping in the front or rear garden category; or if your passion is for a smaller scale, then the hanging basket/container category might be more up your street.

The deadline for applications is 3 July and judging will take place from 18 to 20 July. There will be an awards ceremony later in the year after the judging process. Application forms are available to download or you can request one from Chris Ryder on 01242 526464.

This year there is a new ‘border’ category which will enable entrants to choose a favourite section of their garden to enter into the competition and will also recognise border planting alongside buildings and paths in communal areas, such as in front of blocks of flats.

Categories for residents are:

  • Front or rear garden
  • Border
  • Patio
  • Hanging basket
  • Container

The commercial categories are:

  • Shops and nursing homes
  • Hotels and guest houses
  • Pubs, clubs, restaurants and cafes
  • Commercial premises


Chris Ryder, chair of Cheltenham in Bloom says:

“You don’t need to spend a fortune on plants or try to create the perfect garden. Even the smallest space can be made to look beautiful with a few plants and a dash of creativity. Whether you have an acre, or just a couple of hanging baskets or a window box, we really want to inspire anyone and everyone to get creative in their outside space - and most importantly to have fun.”

Community projects and sustainable gardens around Cheltenham will also be recognised with the ‘community project’ category and an ‘Eco features’ category.

Adam Reynolds, green space development manager for Cheltenham Borough Council, says: “As well as providing beautiful spaces to relax, our gardens can also be put to good use for growing vegetables or as havens for local wildlife.

“If you’re a keen composter, have created a wildlife garden or like to make use of recycled materials in your outside space you could see your efforts rewarded in the Eco features category.”


For press enquiries, contact: Katie Sandey, telephone: 01242 775037 or email: [email protected]