"The Pallet Challenge organised by Scottish Gardeners' Forum was introduced at Gardening Scotland in 2005. The idea originally came from a conversation between Jim McColl of Beechgrove and Alistair Simpson, then Chair of Scottish Gardeners' Forum. The aim being to encourage participation of gardening clubs in the show by designing and building a miniature garden which could easily and affordably bring their gardening skills to the wider public. In 2010 Planters were introduced to allow a smaller lighter weight exhibit.
"With the inclusion of schools, day centres, and community groups, exhibitors came from all over Scotland and an exit survey showed that it was one of the most popular exhibits at Gardening Scotland. The imaginative and often amusing designs were eagerly awaited by members of the public and voting for the People's Choice award was brisk.
"Although there has never been a prescribed theme, it was interesting to see a consensus emerge. One year concern for the welfare of bees was evident, while environmental issues would predominate another.
"Celebration of notable events such as the late Queens 90th birthday brought a flurry of crowns and bunting, and the anniversary of the founding of the NHS gave a chance for reflection. One aspect that you could not fail to notice was the enthusiasm of the exhibitors as they built their display and the evident pride and delight when the awards were made.
"In 2020 the Covid pandemic brought a halt to all shows and resulted in the collapse of Gardening Scotland. Since the lifting of pandemic restrictions, it has been difficult to find a suitable alternative venue but the success of the Scone Palace Garden Fair in 2022 gave us a solution.
"Now that people are becoming more comfortable with outdoor events, it has become clear that the appetite for gardening shows has not diminished, and the Scone Palace Garden Fair is a showcase for the best in Scottish horticulture. Scottish Gardeners' Forum are reinstating the Pallet and Planter Challenge this year, perhaps starting in a small way, but building as the word gets around. Our aim is to welcome previous participants and extend an invitation to newcomers.
"Scone Palace is an ideal venue with its beautiful wide spaces, a central location and ease of access, with plenty on offer for the non-gardeners. It will provide a whole day experience where after browsing the stalls you can relax and enjoy the grounds, get lost in the maze or indulge in the delicious food on offer. We are assured of fine weather and very much looking forward to meeting our members and making new contacts."
Kathryn Pitts
Chair of Scottish Gardeners' Forum
What is the Scottish Gardeners' Forum?
Scottish Gardeners' Forum was established in 2001 by members of the Royal Caledonian Horticultural Society with the aims of supporting local horticultural clubs and societies.
The Caley, which had itself been in existence since 1809, had the reputation of being an organisation populated by many professional and learned gardeners.
It was felt that while individual interest in gardening, horticulture, and floral art had never been greater amongst the general public, most clubs operated in isolation. The aims of Scottish Gardeners' Forum were:
Today, Scottish Gardeners' Forum acts as a focus for gardening clubs from all over Scotland by arranging Public Liability Insurance for their shows, meetings, and products. We also help with speakers for club meetings and judges for shows.
The Annual General meeting is held in a different location each year and after the swift conclusion of business, features talks from several prominent local speakers, and an opportunity to socialise over lunch.
Find out all you need to know about Scottish Gardeners' Forum right HERE.
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