Discover answers to frequently asked questions below, if you still need an answer please email CultivatingEaling@gmail.com
What does ‘encouraging biodiversity’ mean exactly?
Biodiversity — short for biological diversity — is the variety of all living things and their interactions. It means the rich variety of life on Earth. Everything is interconnected, or dependent on everything else! So judges will be hoping to see a garden with a variety of flowers, trees and shrubs, perhaps a water feature and maybe some flies, bees or butterflies. They will hope to see that your front garden is wildlife friendly and that it encourages a variety of things to flourish.
Can I enter my back garden into the competition?
No, the competition this year is limited to front gardens, balconies, schools and allotments only.
I don’t have a front garden, just a balcony. Can I enter that into the competition?
Yes, your balcony could be entered into the competition in the micro garden category.
Can I enter now and send photographs later?
You will not be able to complete the online form without uploading photos at the same time. The closing date for entries for categories 1-3 is 30 June 2025 so you have plenty of time to catch your garden looking its best!
I want to enter the competition, but I don’t want a photo of me on the web.
We won’t put a photo of you on the web without your consent. We will only give the general location of your garden in any publicity if you win e.g. “This front garden is in Northolt” and not put your exact address. Please see the relevant category terms and conditions.
I cannot access the internet, how can I enter?
We are not able to accept entries other than via the online entry form. Perhaps you could ask a relative or friend who has the internet to submit your entry for you.
Should I label the plants in the photo?
It is not necessary but if you wish, you can list the plants in your garden when you fill in the entry form.
I haven’t got a log pile or a pond in my front garden – does that matter?
The judging criteria in the publicity gives people ideas on how to improve their front gardens to make them more wildlife friendly. You don’t need to have all the things on the list.
Can I enter if I get a professional gardener in to design a wildlife friendly garden for me?
No. The design and maintenance of your garden space should be the result of your own efforts.
In my road we have a communal flower bed which 6 local people look after. Can everyone put their names on the entry form?
Each community entry should select one person to represent the group. We will communicate only with that person. It will be the responsibility of that person to decide on how any prize might be allocated between contributors, in the event of a win.
If I don’t win, will I get feedback on my garden about how to improve it?
We are not resourced to provide feedback for all entrants but of course you can request it and we will do our best to provide it.
Will I be able to see all the entries online?
The entries will be collected in by the council and the first judging will be done by looking at the photos. You will not be able to see all the entries online.
What do I do if I cannot upload my photos?
Email webmaster@ealing.gov.uk