Top of the Plots
GARDENA’s Top of the Plots: A Celebration of Growing Greatness
gardena top of the plots trophies
GARDENA Celebrates Gardening Greatness at the First-Ever Top of the Plots Awards
GARDENA UK proudly hosted the very first Top of the Plots Awards Ceremony in October 2025, the finale to what has been a truly remarkable journey.
What started as a nationwide search to celebrate the Grow Your Own spirit has blossomed into something extraordinary. From hundreds of heartfelt entries came stories of passion, resilience, and creativity — from community havens cared for by thousands of volunteers to small backyard oases bursting with colour, life, and biodiversity.
The response far exceeded all expectations. Each story was a reminder of why gardening holds such a special place in our hearts — it connects us, heals us, and inspires us to nurture both our spaces and ourselves.
A celebration of the power of growing your own
This year’s Top of the Plots competition received more than 120 entries from every corner of the UK. With secateurs in hand and trowels at the ready, gardeners showcased their green spaces — big and small — proving that the joy of gardening has no limits.
Our brand ambassador and Head Judge, Huw Richards, played a vital role in the campaign. Visiting every finalist’s plot, he witnessed firsthand the dedication, challenges, and triumphs of Britain’s most passionate gardeners. The judging process was so inspiring that Huw even created his own special award: Huw’s Pick of the Plots, to recognise those who truly captured his heart.
“I was blown away by the diversity of the gardens and allotments,” said Huw. “Visiting the finalists reminded me of the power of gardening — how much joy it brings and how deeply it connects us to nature. If you’ve been inspired by this year’s winners, this is your sign to get planting. Start with one seed… maybe next year I’ll be visiting your plot!”
Top of the Plots 2025 Winners
The finalists and winners exemplify the creativity, resilience and community spirit that define the Grow Your Own movement. Each story is a powerful reminder that gardening is about so much more than plants — it’s about people, perseverance, and pride.
Overall Winner & Plot of the Year: Steve Mills, Barnet, North London
Steve, who has tended his allotment for 14 years, wowed the judges with his mesmerising three-level S-shaped maze and remarkable fruit and flower tunnel featuring more than 100 trees. His “pride and joy” earned him both the Plot of the Year and Best Garden Plot trophies.
Best Allotment: Roger Atkinson, Knowle, Solihull
Roger’s “stress-busting” allotment has been his sanctuary for over 20 years — and his efforts have certainly borne fruit, with almost 50 punnets of strawberries grown this year alone.
Best New Plot: Donna Harris, Leicestershire
Once believing vegetables were “boring,” Donna now finds joy and peace in her “life-changing” garden — a beautiful testament to how growing your own can transform lives.
Best Community Plot: Victoria Holden and the Northern Lily’s Community Orchard & Garden, Failsworth, Greater Manchester
A true “hidden gem,” this project has turned derelict land into a thriving community garden enjoyed by more than 4,000 people. The team has grown over a tonne of produce — enough for 12,750 meals!
Best Small Plot: Rebecca Hale, Norfolk
Rebecca’s “beautiful little garden” is proof that even the smallest spaces can make a big impact. Her plot is a haven of biodiversity, teeming with life and purpose.
Biodiversity on the Plot: David Gallacher, Falkirk
David’s Tom’s Hidden Garden celebrates the art and science of gardening, with 700 plants creating a vibrant ecosystem rich in colour, wildlife, and inspiration.
Kids on the Plot: Winner to be announced next week!
This special category recognises schools where young gardeners grow fruit and vegetables that are cooked and enjoyed in the school kitchen — with help from dedicated teachers and allotment volunteers who bring children closer to nature every week.
Growing Together
Mike Farrell, Chairman of the National Allotment Society, summed up the spirit of the competition perfectly:
“Top of the Plots has been a brilliant way to highlight the best of Britain’s allotments, and the important role they play in communities around the country. It’s not just about the produce grown — it’s about the connection with nature, the time spent outdoors, and the way allotments bring people together.”
At GARDENA, we’re proud to be more than just a brand that provides the tools gardeners need — we’re a community that celebrates the people, passion, and purpose behind every plot.
The Journey Continues
Want to know more about our incredible, deserving winners? Head to our Instagram and Facebook channels to watch and learn more about their stories.
To everyone who entered, shared their stories, or simply supported from afar — thank you. Your enthusiasm has made the very first Top of the Plots a resounding success.
And this is just the beginning…
Top of the Plots will return in 2026!
Stay tuned to our channels in the new year for updates, entry details, and plenty more inspiration from this year’s heartwarming celebrations.
Because every plot has a story — and we can’t wait to hear yours.
