Dorset’s most wildlife friendly gardens celebrated at Castle Gardens

After months of judging, Dorset’s most wildlife friendly gardens were announced at Sherborne-based Castle Gardens on Thursday 30 July. The 6th annual Dorset Wildlife Trust Wildlife Friendly Garden Competition, which is sponsored by The Gardens Group, saw 41 entries this year, including schools, museums and individuals from right across the county.

The Judges, which included Dorset Wildlife Trust president, Tony Bates MBE, community conservation officer, Briony Baxter, and Mike Burks, managing director of The Gardens Group, have been visiting gardens around the county since May. This year extra marks were given to gardeners who provide a particularly inviting haven for pollinating insects.

Before the awards were announced, Dr David Aplin, director of Botanical Values, gave a fascinating talk about the weird and wonderful world of plants that partner with other organisms, including bacteria and fungi. David commented; 

“In times of increased urbanisation people’s gardens have never been more important, so Dorset Wildlife Trust’s Wildlife Friendly Garden Competition can play a vital role in helping raise awareness of the wildlife on our doorsteps. Pockets of wildlife can provide vital habitats for many organisms and this can significantly increase human health and well-being.”

For further information about The Gardens Group please visit www.thegardeneronline.co.uk.