SNG teams up with the Royal Horticultural Society to launch In Bloom 2026 gardening competition

Budding gardeners and gardening groups across London and southern England are invited to showcase their horticultural spaces and green fingered creativity by entering our annual In Bloom customer gardening competition.

This year’s In Bloom is bigger than ever before, as SNG teams up with the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) and award-winning garden designer, The Beardy Gardener, to provide expert advice for applicants and to sit on the judging panel.

From private gardens and allotments to hanging baskets, balcony arrangements and shared community spaces, we want to hear from all customers looking to share and celebrate their efforts.

In Bloom fosters greater community spirit and provides a celebration of customers green fingered skills and creativity and a shared pride in our places, as well as a chance to hone their gardening skills. Categories this year include Thriving Community Garden, Small Garden Innovator, Sustainable Garden Innovator and Home Garden in Bloom. Winners will be recognised with gift vouchers and a professional photo shoot of their garden.

Stevie Chadwick, SNG’s Community Investment and Partnerships Manager, commented: “We’re delighted to have the RHS and the Beardy Gardener on board for our biggest In Bloom competition to date. Over the past two years, customers have entered with some amazing gardens and community spaces, and we can’t wait to see what the 2026 competition will bring. We want to celebrate our customers by recognising their gardening talents and share in our joint sense of pride in the places we're creating together.”

Rosie Carr, RHS Judge, said: “I’m really pleased to be judging SNG’s In Bloom gardening competition this summer. It’s fantastic to see so many gardeners and local groups getting involved again. Gardens of all kinds bring people together, brighten shared spaces and play an important role in supporting wildlife and pollinators. I’m really looking forward to seeing the creativity and care that have gone into this year’s entries.”

Leigh Johnstone, The Beardy Gardener, commented: “I’m genuinely excited to be a judge for this year’s In Bloom competition. Gardening isn’t about having a big space or being an expert, it’s about connection, curiosity and getting your hands dirty. Whether it’s a few pots on a balcony or a full community garden, these spaces have the power to boost wellbeing and bring people together. It’s fantastic to see SNG championing that and giving people a reason to celebrate what they grow.”

For further information, including information on the In Bloom categories and details of how to apply, head to our webpage. Applications close on Tuesday 30 June 2026.