Island Gardeners Invited To Enter In Bloom Competition

Budding gardeners and community groups across the Isle of Wight are being encouraged to showcase their green-fingered talents by entering this year's In Bloom competition.

Run by Sovereign Network Group, this edition of the event is touted to be the biggest yet, with support from the Royal Horticultural Society and award-winning designer Leigh Johnstone, who will both help judge entries.

The competition is open to a wide range of outdoor spaces, from private gardens and allotments to balconies, hanging baskets and shared community areas.

Organisers say the initiative aims to bring communities together, celebrate creativity and encourage pride in local spaces, while also helping people develop their gardening skills.

Categories for 2026 include Thriving Community Garden, Small Garden Innovator, Sustainable Garden Innovator and Home Garden in Bloom, with winners receiving gift vouchers and a professional photoshoot of their garden.

Stevie Chadwick said the competition continues to grow each year, with entries already showcasing a high standard of creativity and care.

Meanwhile, RHS judge Rosie Carr said gardens of all kinds play an important role in bringing people together, supporting wildlife and brightening shared spaces.

Leigh Johnstone, also known as The Beardy Gardener, added that gardening is about connection and wellbeing, whether it’s a few pots on a balcony or a full community project.

Residents can find out more about how to enter, along with full details of the categories, online.

Applications close on Tuesday 30 June 2026.