Residents, volunteers and team members at Hartsholme House are celebrating after being named Lincolnshire winner in the Trust’s annual Trust in Bloom gardening competition for the second year running. The home have also been chosen as the Trust in Bloom 2025 overall winner, jointly with Paternoster House.

The win reflects the dedication and creativity of the team, volunteers and community supporters who have helped transform the gardens into vibrant, therapeutic spaces for residents and visitors. Hartsholme House competed alongside 5 OSJCT homes and will receive gardening vouchers from the competition sponsors SwitchShop.

The home also received category certificates for Miniature Gardens, Community Gardening, Residents’ Choice, and Edible Gardening, recognising its inclusive and resident-led approach. This year’s garden builds on 2024’s success, with new features inspired by resident feedback and a philosophy of “happy chaos,” borrowed from the Royal Horticultural Society.

Volunteers and carers highlighted the garden’s importance to residents. A new accessible path and patio ensure everyone, including wheelchair users, can enjoy the space. A quiet reflection corner has become a favourite spot for peaceful moments.

A standout feature is the hanging baskets, each sponsored by a resident or family member and marked with a handmade slate heart. Bird baths, ornaments and water features—many donated by families—enhance sensory engagement, especially for residents living with dementia.

The garden has also supported rehabilitation: one resident, previously immobile after a hospital stay, now walks to her window to see her bird bath and light-up peacock ornament, helping her regain mobility.

Community involvement was key to this year’s success. In June, the home hosted a “Tea for a Plant” garden party, inviting guests to donate plants in exchange for homemade cake. Local businesses including B&Q, Pennels Garden Centre and Starbucks offered generous support, while Ruth Simons, Head Environmentalist at Hartsholme Park, provided expert advice.

Whimsical additions include the Golden Throne Fairy Garden, made from a donated commode and spray-painted gold by Blake, the home’s youngest volunteer. There is also a planted-up model cow, named Donna, crafted by Harley and his dad, Danny, who joined Trust in Bloom as family members of a carer who works at Hartsholme House.

Carer and garden volunteer Debbie Britten said: “It’s been a challenge with the weather, but the results speak for themselves. 

Fellow Carer, Annie Durrant added: “Seeing residents and their families enjoy the garden is incredibly rewarding.”

Home Manager Cheryl Gilderdale, whose home holds an Outstanding CQC rating, said: “Winning again is a fantastic achievement. I’m so proud of our team and everyone who helped transform the gardens. For residents living with dementia, communication can be difficult—but the joy on their faces when they see the flowers and wildlife says it all.”