North Wales Housing (NWH) is delighted to launch its 9th annual Residents’ Gardening Competition, inviting our residents to celebrate their outdoor creativity in categories including Best Garden, Best Communal Garden, and Best Container, Pot, Basket or Window Box.
This year’s competition brings an exciting new addition: guest judge Ellen Firth, a Denbighshire-based florist, farmer, and 2024 Wales Young Entrepreneur of the Year.
Ellen runs Firth Flock Flowers, a sustainable flower-growing business producing more than 150 varieties of blooms using eco-friendly methods. Alongside her thriving flower farm, she also manages a small pedigree sheep flock on her family’s land in Ruthin.
“I’m thrilled to be judging this year’s gardening competition,” said Ellen. “In addition to flower farming, I also do some garden design work, so I’m always interested in seeing how others express themselves through plants and outdoor spaces. I’ve heard great things about last year’s entries and can’t wait to meet the shortlisted gardeners in July.”
A passionate advocate for local growing, Ellen regularly runs educational workshops and partners with schools, as well as promoting the use of local, seasonal flowers.
She’ll be joined by NWH’s Resident Participation Co-ordinator, Iwan Evans, to visit and judge this year’s finalists in the Best Garden Competition.
Iwan said:
“The Gardening Competition is now a much-loved tradition at North Wales Housing. It’s a wonderful way to encourage people to spend time outdoors, stay active, and take pride in their homes and communities.
“Last year we had some outstanding entries and saw everything from lush tropical gardens to vibrant hanging baskets. We’re really looking forward to seeing what this year’s entries will bring.”
Residents who aren’t gardeners themselves are encouraged to nominate a green- fingered neighbour.
To enter, please email photos in your chosen category to: Iwan.evans@nwha.org.uk
Feature image: Ellen Firth photo courtesy Firth Flock Flowers
