Communities in Bloom

Communities in Bloom has long harnessed the power of engaging, passionate people – community-minded people with a vested interest in making their communities a better place to live.

Climate Change

Climate change is affecting our cities, our communities, and our homes and is changing the way we must design and build our urban landscapes. Yes, climate change is a global problem, but the effects hit us locally, where we live. Each city, town and community must then seek solutions and develop initiatives that are specific to their needs – on their streets, in their parks, playgrounds and schools, at all their green spaces, at every opportunity. Never have our living landscapes been so crucial to our collective health and well-being – thriving, contributing, working green spaces and places for people to gather and enjoy. 

Urban green spaces such as gardens, parks, transportation corridors and woodlands provide a multitude of benefits to urban human populations and a vital habitat for wildlife. Here are some of the benefits of our urban green infrastructure:

• improve air and water quality
• limit the impact of heat waves by reducing urban temperatures
• provide a place for physical fitness and reduce urban stress
• enhance the health and well-being of people living and working in cities
• filters air and water, helping to mitigate the effects of climate change in our cities and reducing the likelihood of flooding by slowing and storing excess rainwater

As December’s chill settles in, these striking plants offer colour and interest to brighten the winter garden:

• Echinacea: Though traditionally a summer bloomer, Echinacea’s dried seed heads add an architectural element to the winter landscape. These perennials, also known as coneflowers, remain attractive throughout the colder months, providing both texture and food for birds. Their strong stems stand tall even in the snow, making Echinacea a valuable addition to December gardens.
   
• Lantana: Lantana’s clusters of small, brightly coloured flowers continue to bloom in warm climates well into December. These hardy plants, in shades of red, orange, yellow, and pink, are perfect for adding pops of colour to garden beds, borders, and containers. Lantana thrives in sunny conditions and is a magnet for pollinators, bringing a touch of warmth to winter gardens.
   
• Calceolaria: Also known as Pocketbook Plant, Calceolaria features small, pouch-like blooms in vibrant yellows, oranges, and reds. Ideal for indoor pots and sheltered outdoor areas, this eye-catching plant adds festive cheer to your winter decor. Calceolaria thrives in cool, shady conditions and can bring a fresh burst of colour to your December arrangements.

Enter our Store Locator to search for a nearby independent garden centre.