Some of the most talented gardeners in Lanarkshire are being sought in a competition which launches this week.
Dobbies garden centre will hunt the best green-fingered locals in their 'Not Your Average Gardener Awards' with a star-studded panel set to do the judging.
The firm's Clyde Valley store in Crossford, near Carluke, will look to tap into the talent of those most keen amateur gardeners and see what they have to offer.
It comes after recent research conducted by the garden centre from Independent Media News earlier this year saw 76 per cent of Brits couldn’t wait to get back into the garden.
The celebrity judges include broadcaster Jo Whiley, Dobbies’ Horticultural Director, Marcus Eyles, ITV This Morning’s Daisy Payne and Dobbies’ Ambassador and gardening influencer, Henry Agg.
They'll look to celebrate four gardeners, all with a passion for planting in their own unique way, with up to £5000 worth of prizes and a virtual consultation with Marcus Eyles on how best to maximise their space.
The competition will also search for those who support local wildlife, better the environment and use sustainable gardening techniques as part of their entries.
Dobbies’ team members will be on hand to offer the winners advice on how to spend their prize and bring their space to life.
There are four categories for the Not Your Average Gardener Awards , including Most Sustainable Gardener, Best Mini Garden Makeover, Best Houseplant Parent and Best Young Gardener (under 16 years).
Jo Whiley is delighted to be on the panel. She said: “Gardening is a huge passion of mine, and I would encourage anyone to try it as a hobby. Being out in your green space, no matter the size, is a great chance to take a moment for your own wellbeing.
“I’m really excited to be on Dobbies’ judging panel this year. Whether a houseplant enthusiast, a keen gardener growing fruit and vegetables on an apartment balcony, a child discovering ways to make their green space bloom or gardening newbie creating plant borders, I’m excited to hear how Brits are giving gardening a go no matter their space or experience.”
Dobbies’ Horticultural Director, Marcus Eyles, added: “We’ve seen a positive increase in gardening over the past year, with customers across Clyde Valley looking to try something new in their green space.
"At Dobbies we’re always on the lookout for passionate gardeners and our Not Your Average Gardener Awards are a great opportunity to shine a light on talent across Britain."
Nominations can be submitted at dobbies.com by filling out a simple form and submitting images.
The deadline for submissions is August 26. All entries will be reviewed by the panel of expert judges and winners will be announced September 2022.
For more information on the awards or to submit an entry, visit here.
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