Swindon customer’s innovative front garden wins SNG competition
A Swindon customer’s front garden has won an award for being an innovative and vibrant green space. Luke Carpenter showed his horticultural creativity by coming first in the ‘Small Garden Innovator’ category in our annual In Bloom competition.
Luke, who lives in Tadpole Garden Village, was among 139 submissions from gardeners and gardening groups who stood out from over 85,000 households across Southern England. SNG customers live in a variety of homes and the In Bloom competition offered prizes across four categories of gardens with indoor, outdoor and community gardens, and green spaces all in contention.
‘The Small Garden Innovator Award’ is given to individuals who have innovatively utilised smaller or indoor spaces to create vibrant green spaces. This category celebrates blossoming plants in containers, hanging baskets, houseplants, or and things that are a little different which maximise space.
Regarding his win, Luke said: “It’s great to have won with my front garden in this year's competition. I have gardened from a young age helping my grandparents and later my parents, and it has always been my salvation and relaxing space. Even if there isn't a lot of work to be done in the garden, just sitting outside and appreciating the flowers and wildlife really helps with my mental health.”
He added: “My biggest tip to anyone wanting to get into gardening is to just give it a go, you may lose some plants along the way but this is how you learn. Collecting seeds and cuttings is a great way to get free plants and make use of podcasts and YouTube for help.”
Matt Buckham, In Bloom judge and Managing Director at SNG’s Community Foundation met Luke at his home to deliver his trophy and certificate. He said: “It was really difficult to choose this year, but it’s certainly been a pleasure judging some brilliant gardens, plants and green spaces for our In Bloom competition. While we aim to provide good quality places to live, it’s our customers who turn them into real homes to thrive in by adding colour, beauty and life.”
Maria Vasquez, fellow In Bloom judge and a 2024 winner, said: “I was blown away by the talent, creativity, and dedication demonstrated by the participants; they truly deserve the recognition and awards given. What touched me most was how a shared love of plants brought people across the community together. I am sure there are so many beautiful and inspiring green spaces across the UK that have yet to participate, and I hope that sharing these success stories through the competition will encourage more residents to apply.”