Defining Horticultural Achievement

We were delighted to play our part in supporting Bute in Bloom this week as they toured Rothesay with Keep Scotland Beautiful judges Sandra Maclennan and Terry Stott.  Sandra, a retired head teacher, is involved with Forres in Bloom and Terry has 42 years experience in Horticulture in a variety of roles with Aberdeen City Council.

The judges were expecting to be shown

• The community at it’s best in terms of range, variety, quantity and colours of plants, and the inclusion of special features and/or innovative design
• Plants that are well cultivated and healthy, and planted areas are well-maintained
• That account has been taken of sustainability: getting abalance between permanent and annual planting
• The condition of public and private gardens and grounds, plus any commercial areas demonstrate support for Bute in Bloom efforts to lead amenity improvement for our community.

Thanks to the efforts of many flowers, I think we covered all the bases.  Of course, there is much to do and quite a few spots still to tackle but it is heartening how many people are getting involved.  At Bute Produce, we strive to produce quality locally grown food and provide skills development opportunities for a wide range of capabilities.  So it is lovely to be recognised for those efforts and be featured in the tour programme.

And our community car club, Car Bute, also featured as the tour bus!