Encouraging pollinating plants for Britain in Bloom
This week I'm visiting inspiring projects around the country where pollinating plants and wildflowers are the top priority.
Today I'm filming with the Britain in Bloom team in Harrogate as the judging begins. Last spring I went to there to encourage Harrogate in Bloom to place more emphasis on growing nectar and pollen rich plants. I'd like to see as much emphasis placed on attracting insects as is placed on creating beauty and impact. I'm here today to see how they've got on and to talk to the judges about placing more emphasis on this worthy cause.
Tomorrow I'll be visiting the fantastic wildflower meadow project in inner city Leeds. Derelict land is being transformed into a green corridor which will provide a haven for wildlife, birds and butterflies with a beautiful carpet of wildflowers that bloom from July until November.
From there it's off to Birmingham on Thursday where I've created an alternative to the traditional bedding schemes you'll find in most cities. I've created a pollen friendly alternative and we'll be asking the public to vote on which they prefer.
Finally I'll finish the week at the olypmic wildflower meadows where temporay plots have been created on sites waiting development. Planted with predominantly native plants I can't wait to revisit this exciting project.
