Communities in Bloom
Communities in Bloom is a Canadian non-profit organization that promotes civic pride, environmental responsibility, and beautification through community involvement and the challenge of a national program. The program involves the evaluation of communities' efforts to enhance their environment through a variety of criteria, including community appearance, environmental action, heritage conservation, tree management, plant & floral displays and landscaping.
2025 Theme of the Year
Gone are the days when vegetable patches were tucked away at the back of the yard. Edible plants deserve a place front and centre in your garden design. Many edibles, like kale, Swiss chard, and rainbow carrots, have colourful foliage that rivals traditional ornamentals. Herbs like lavender, basil, and thyme bring fragrance and texture, while fruiting plants like strawberries and tomatoes add both beauty and bounty.
Incorporate these plants into your borders, container gardens, and even hanging baskets. Mix them with ornamentals to create a garden that’s as productive as it is stunning. For example, pair edible nasturtiums with marigolds for a burst of orange blooms while attracting pollinators.
Communities in Bloom's Purpose
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
How to Participate in Communities in Bloom?
Many communities, organizations and groups can participate in a Communities in Bloom program, with recognition and awards to showcase their accomplishments and efforts in maintaining or improving the environmental and aesthetical quality of the location.
Get Involved
If you're looking to get involved in your community and make a positive impact on the environment, Communities in Bloom is the perfect opportunity. Join the effort to create beautiful and sustainable communities across Canada and add a touch of orange to your community's garden.