The Association of Professional Landscapers (APL) Skills Competition at the BBC Gardeners' World Autumn Fair wrapped up this weekend with fantastic results.
Two APL member teams faced off in the competition for a high-pressure showdown, with just 16.5 hours to build a 24m2 garden from scratch.
The teams delivered such exceptional results that both gardens also earned prestigious gold medals from the event judges.
Image: Left to right: Landscapes by Design owner Stuart Reid with competitors Rob and Alex
However, there could only be one winner of the APL Skills Competition and this year the title went to Landscapes By Design from Basildon, led by Rob and Alex. Their garden, Fiesta Flora, designed by Paul Newman of Designscape, captivated judges by blending the natural beauty of plants with the spirit of celebration and relaxation. The team’s meticulous attention to detail and commitment to precision secured their victory in what was described as an exceptionally close competition.
Tisserand English Gardens Ltd, based in Bishops Stortford, also received significant recognition. Their garden, There’s No Place Like Home, designed by award-winning garden designer Sarah Plested of Bramley Apple Garden Design, was also awarded "Best in Category" by the BBC Gardeners’ World Live (BBCGWL) team. This accolade was particularly impressive given the tight competition among three Gold medal-winning gardens.
The initial judging phase for the Skills Competition was conducted by industry experts Steve Smith and Phil Tremayne, who evaluated the gardens based on accuracy to the specified design, overall finish, and aesthetic appeal.
Phil Tremayne, General Manager of the Association of Professional Landscapers said: "This year's competition was one of the closest we've ever seen. The competition was fierce, with only a 1% difference in scores between the two teams, highlighting the incredible skill, technical ability and speed demonstrated by both. Both teams delivered exceptional gardens that not only met but exceeded our exacting standards. It's a testament to their hard work and dedication – both teams were amazing"
Association of Professional Landscapers (APL) Landscaper Skills 'The Professionals' competition took place at the BBC Gardeners’ World Live Autumn Fair within the grounds of Audley End in Cambridgeshire.
For the past eight years, the APL has also been the organising partner for the World Skills UK Landscaping competition, where individual contestants, including college students and apprentices, undertake the challenge of building a 12 m2 garden from a provided design in just 16.5 hours. These gardens are meticulously judged against specifications, with tolerances as fine as 2 to 5mm.
