MALDON'S much-loved Maldon in Bloom gardening competition returns this year with the theme: "Love Your Garden."

Whether you're a seasoned gardener, a community group, a local business, or a budding young creator, there's a category for everyone to get involved and showcase their green-fingered talents.

The Open Competition features a wide range of categories, including Best Allotment, Community Garden, Decorated Business, Front Garden, Hanging Basket, Planter, Residential Care Home, and School Garden.

It's an opportunity to celebrate the pride residents and organisations take in making Maldon a greener, more vibrant place.

This year's Junior Competition invites children to let their imaginations bloom with the creation of a mini garden imaginarium (no larger than 50cm x 40cm). With age categories for Pre-School, 5–7 years, and 8–11 years, young participants are encouraged to design something truly magical that reflects the "Love Your Garden" theme.

Key dates to remember:

• Entries close: 5 June 2026

• Judging week: 22–26 June 2026

advertisement

• Presentation evening: 14 July 2026

Entry forms can be found inside the April edition of Maldon Life, online via www.maldontowncouncil.gov.uk/maldoninbloom, or scan the QR code on this page.

Paper entries should be returned to Maldon Town Council Offices, Market Hill, Maldon, CM9 4RL, or emailed to: [email protected].

Maldon in Bloom is a group of dedicated volunteers who meet from 10am to 12pm every Tuesday to tend planters in and around Maldon Town.

If you would like to get involved or find out more, call 01621 857 373 or email [email protected].