Britain in Bloom – some last minute tips

With July just around the corner, much of the planting for this year’s Britain in Bloom competition will have been done. However, the last minute preparations for judges’ visits are equally important and there’s still a lot that can be done to improve an entry. Here are some of our suggestions for key areas to focus on in the final weeks before judging.

1. Celebrate your local landmarks

Identify some of the key landmarks in your town, village or city and give them a bit of care and attention. Raise their profile by cleaning them up, putting up new signage or planting displays in the vicinity. Self-watering containers are ideal because they can be easily moved and come in all shapes and sizes.

2. On the street

It’s not just about the plants. Look at your street furniture: where is it positioned? What is it made of? With sustainability forming an important part of the judging criteria, it could help your entry (and your budget) to invest in street furniture made of recycled materials such as the Plaswood range of benches and tables made from recycled polythene.

3. Look for grot spots

Walk round the area and identify hotspot areas with potential for improvement. This could include car parks, roundabouts or business parks for example - any areas which you feel are currently neglected.

4. Time for a spring clean

The overall quality of the environment is an important issue e.g. how litter, dog-fouling or graffiti are minimised, so ensure these issues are addressed and actioned.

5. Bin it

If litter is a problem in a particular location, it may be time to invest in some new and/or additional litter bins. Look at where bins are currently located and how they are used. Liaise with your local authority who may be able to provide this information as well as supporting you financially if you can prove a need. Click here to see Amberol’s range of litter and recycling bins.