Grow-your-own expert Huw Richards joined GARDENA and the National Allotment Society to crown the winners of the nationwide Top of the Plots competition at Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons.

The first year of the competition celebrated grow-your-own culture and gardening greatness, from the perfect plot to windowsill wonders and community spaces.

Steve Mills, from Barnet, North London, was crowned the overall 2025 winner after showcasing the allotment he has worked on for 14 years and the fascinating fruit and flower tunnel with more than 100 trees.

He created the mesmerising three-level S-shaped maze and took home the Plot of the Year and Best Garden Plot trophies for his “pride and joy” allotment.

The Top of the Plots competition received more than 100 entries this year, as Brits dusted off their trowels and hoses to nurture their green spaces all summer. 

It comes as more than a fifth of householders are planning to pave or deck over their garden in the next five years, according to a report by the Horticultural Trades Association. 

Huw Richards, Head Judge and GARDENA Ambassador, said: “I was blown away by the diversity of the gardens and allotments of the Top of the Plots entrants. 

“Visiting the finalists and exploring their vibrant allotments and gardens served as a reminder for me of the power of gardening, and how much joy it brings. 

“If you’ve been inspired by this year’s Top of the Plots winners, this is your sign to get planting. Start with one seed, and begin to cultivate your green space. Maybe next year I’ll be visiting your new plot!”

Mike Farrell, Chairman of the National Allotment Society, said: “Top of the Plots has been a brilliant way to highlight the best of Britain’s allotments, and the important role they play in communities around the country. 

“It’s not just about the produce grown, but the connection with nature, the time spent outside and the way allotments bring people together. We’re looking forward to seeing the competition grow next year as more green-fingered gardeners rise to the challenge.”

Roger Atkinson, from Knowle, Solihull, West Midlands, won the Best Allotment category for his “stress-busting” space that he has nurtured for 20 years. Roger has grown almost 50-punnets worth of strawberries from his amazing allotment.

Donna Harris from Leicestershire used to think vegetables were “boring” but has found a new love for homegrown food as she won Best New Plot for her “life-changing” garden which has become her sanctuary.

Victoria Holden from Failsworth, Greater Manchester, won the Best Community Plot on behalf of Northern Lily’s Community Orchard & Garden which transformed derelict land into a ‘hidden gem’ for more than 4,000 people and grown over a tonne of food for 12,750 meals.

Rebecca Hale from Norfolk won Best Small Plot for her “beautiful little garden” that she has transformed into a biodiverse hub for insects and vegetables.

David Gallacher from Falkirk won Biodiversity on the Plot for Tom's Hidden Garden - a “vibrant ecosystem meticulously cultivated to celebrate the art and science of gardening” with 700 plants.

The Kids on the Plot category will be announced next week, where green-fingered children grow fruit and vegetables that are cooked by a school kitchen. The teachers and allotment volunteers’ commitment to bringing pupils into nature once a week has been transformative.

GARDENA, Europe’s number one watering and hand tools brand, has announced that Top of the Plots will be returning for 2026. More information will be announced early next year.