Belvoir Flower & Garden Show 2026: The Plants That Stood Out
The 2026 Belvoir Flower & Garden Show dazzled with its focus on climate-conscious gardening, wildlife-friendly designs, and a standout Best in Show win for Arrange, LLC.
The Belvoir Flower & Garden Show 2026 has wrapped up in sunny Grantham, and what a spectacle it was! This year's event was all about forward-thinking horticulture, with climate-conscious and wildlife-friendly gardens taking centre stage. Whether you missed it or want to relive the highlights, let's explore the winning designs, the trends that emerged, and the plants worth hunting down for your own garden.
Best in Show: Arrange, LLC
Taking home the prestigious Best in Show award was Arrange, LLC. Their garden was a masterclass in blending form and function, weaving sustainable practices with artistic flair. While specifics of their design aren't publicly detailed, their win is a testament to the growing emphasis on environmentally responsible gardening. It's a reminder that beauty and sustainability can go hand in hand, and a nudge for us all to consider eco-friendly practices in our own back gardens.
Plant of the Year: Cercis griffithii BLUE LAGOON (‘Rafmar 1’)
The Plant of the Year accolade went to Cercis griffithii BLUE LAGOON (‘Rafmar 1’), a plant that’s as striking as it is practical. With its dark red stems and deep pink flowers, it transitions beautifully into blue-toned foliage, offering interest throughout the seasons. It's drought-tolerant and low maintenance, making it a superb choice for the British climate, especially as we face warmer, drier summers. This Cercis would make a fantastic addition to any garden looking for a splash of colour and resilience. For those eager to add this showstopper to their collection, searching for it on ComparePlants is a good start.
Trends: Climate-Conscious and Wildlife Gardens
Two trends were impossible to ignore at this year's show: climate-conscious planting and gardens designed with wildlife in mind. Many displays featured drought-resistant plants, mirroring a broader move towards gardens that require less water and maintenance. Wildlife gardens, with native plants that attract pollinators and provide habitats for local fauna, were also a major theme, likely inspired by the show's 'Pollinators' theme for its border competition.
If you're keen to incorporate these trends, start by exploring native plants that thrive in your local conditions. Consider varieties like lavender, which not only withstands dry conditions but also attracts bees and butterflies. You can browse options on ComparePlants to find the right fit for your garden.
Where to Buy
With the show behind us, the quest to find these standout plants begins. While some may be tempted to rush to local garden centres, a bit of research can save both money and time. Comparing prices online is a savvy move, especially as prices can vary significantly between nurseries.
Consider starting with a search on ComparePlants to find reputable suppliers for Cercis griffithii BLUE LAGOON and other trending plants. You might discover a local nursery offering a bargain or an online retailer with a wider selection. Remember, patience often pays off in gardening — both in nurturing plants and in finding the best deals.
As we bid farewell to this year's Belvoir Flower & Garden Show, we're reminded of the joy and inspiration that such events bring. Whether it's the award-winning designs, the innovative plants, or the emerging trends, there's always something to take back to our own gardens. Here's to a season of mindful, beautiful gardening!