Edible Gardens Britain in Bloom 2013

The theme of the launch is “Edible Britain”, and will see community gardening groups create 2000 edible gardens in public spaces around the country between the 7th and 14th of April.

RHS community gardening groups can apply for free edible seeds, provided by the RHS. A total of 30,000 packets of seeds, such as chives, dill, parsley, carrots, coriander, spring onions red frills mustard and edible flowers such as marigolds and nasturtiums.

Stephanie Enyon of the RHS said:

“Britain in Bloom isn’t just about pretty hanging baskets brightening up gloomy streets, it’s about improving the environment, enhancing lives and brings communities together through gardening. Edible Britain will see new public herb and vegetable gardens planted across the UK; bringing access to tasty produce to thousands”   

Robin Parker of Gabriel Ash agrees:

“This is about community engagement. It is about improving access to gardening facilities to people who might not necessarily have them. It also sends out very positive environmental and health messages.”

The social impacts of participating in Britain In Bloom, are arguably more important than the environmental and visual benefits. A RHS survey showed that 90% thought the biggest impact of this campaign is community development. In an era when people tend to shy away from community involvement, and just stay at home, this is a refreshing result. In many ways community involvement has dissipated as we become a more advanced society. 50% of those surveyed said they had seen a reduction in crime and anti social behaviour.

This initiative also aims to get young and old people alike more active, through the promotion of healthy lifestyle choices                . The scheme will also allow people to understand what processes actually go into food production.

Britain In Bloom was set up in 2002 as a tourist initiative, but since 2002, the RHS have used the scheme to promote wider social issues and responsibilities.  It has since become one of Europe’s largest community and environmental campaigns, and is Britain’s biggest voluntary campaign.

To find out where your local initiative will be taking place and get involved, please follow the link below:

http://www.rhs.org.uk/Gardening/Community-gardening

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