The New Plotholder Awards aims to encourage, recognise and reward those individuals who rise tothe challenge of a new plot.
New plot-holders come to a plot which may or may not be in good condition, with a variety of previous gardening experiences, skills and backgrounds.
Whatever the starting point, the enthusiasm, hard work and commitment demonstrated by a new plot holder is to be commended and encouraged.
If you’re thinking of applying in future, take photos of your new plot now so you can show the judge how it looked when you started.
Who can participate?
To be eligible you will have taken on your plot on or after 1 January in the year prior to the year in which you apply – i.e. within the past two growing seasons.
For applications by this year’s deadline of 21st July 2025, that means anyone who got their plot after 1st January 2024 is eligible.
Judging will typically take place in July or August of that year (date to be confirmed once each application cycle opens).
People can enter on their own behalf, and they can also nominate another plotholder.
Prizes
- 1st prize: £50 of gardening vouchers
- 2nd prize: £40 of gardening vouchers
Both prizes also include an official certificate from the Incorporation of Gardeners.
Up to three commendations of £20 are available at the judge’s discretion.
Two commendation prizes are also awarded for the most significant progress in overcoming adversity in particularly challenging conditions.
Judging criteria
Points are awarded in several categories:
- Overall growing plan
- Overall appearance
- Cultivation
- Paths, hedges and boundaries
- Systems and methods
- Contribution to wider allotment community
For full details, see the application guidance below.
How to apply
- Read our full application pack (Word document) to see what the judges will be looking for
- Fill in the form on pages 3 and 4
- You may fill it in directly in the Word doc, or print it to fill in by hand then take a scan or a clear photo
- Email the completed form to gafforum@gmail.com
- We’ll never share your information without your permission, so if you’d like your allotment site to know you’ve applied so they can support you in writing your application or share your news internally, let your local committee know.