Encouraging everyone to experience the joys and benefits of gardening
What is National Gardening Week?
National Gardening Week is an annual celebration hosted by the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS), created to inspire people of all ages to get gardening. Whether you’re a seasoned horticulturist or someone who's just planted their first seeds, this week offers a perfect opportunity to learn new skills, connect with nature, and enjoy the wellbeing benefits of spending time outdoors.
Held from 28 April to 4 May in 2025, the week-long event promotes the many joys of gardening, sharing expert tips, educational activities, and plenty of inspiration to help both individuals and communities grow.
Why Gardening Matters
Gardening is more than just a hobby — it’s good for your mind, body, and environment. Research continues to show that gardening can help reduce stress, boost mood, improve fitness, and even contribute to better nutrition when growing your own food. It’s also a great way to support biodiversity and green your local area.
History of the Week
Launched by the RHS in 2012, National Gardening Week has become one of the UK’s biggest celebrations of gardening. Over the years, it’s brought together schools, community groups, and individuals with a shared love of plants and green spaces. Each year, the campaign encourages people to try something new in the garden — whether that’s planting bee-friendly flowers, growing vegetables from seed, or creating a wildlife habitat.
How to Get Involved
1. Join RHS Activities
Visit the RHS website for free guides, downloadable resources, and ideas for activities throughout the week.
2. Start a Gardening Project
You don’t need a big garden — try planting herbs on a windowsill, starting a container garden, or transforming a shared outdoor space in your community.
3. Host or Attend a Gardening Event
Libraries, schools, garden centres and community organisations may run workshops, plant swaps, or guided tours. Get involved or host one yourself!
4. Share Your Garden Online
Use the hashtag #NationalGardeningWeek to showcase your plants and progress on social media and connect with other gardening enthusiasts.
5. Inspire Children and Young People
Get the whole family involved by planting sunflowers, creating bug hotels, or designing colourful garden markers.
Local Gardening Inspiration in North Tyneside
Linskill Community Garden (North Shields) — An inclusive garden space offering workshops, volunteering opportunities, and social events. A great place to get hands-on experience and meet fellow gardening fans.
Whitley Bay Community Allotment — A welcoming space for local residents to learn about growing their own produce and connecting with others.
Growing More Than Plants — Growing Joy, Community, and Wellbeing
Whether you're planting your very first seed or tending to a thriving allotment, National Gardening Week is a chance to reconnect with nature, nurture your wellbeing, and grow something meaningful. Gardening is a gentle yet powerful way to create beauty, encourage biodiversity, and bring communities together. So why not step outside, get your hands a little muddy, and discover the joy of watching things grow — it might just become your new favourite habit.
