Star Laois gardener urges Laois schools to garden for big prize

Renowned Laois garden expert, Brian Burke, has launched Woodie's annual 'Budding Gardeners' competition for 2025, back for its fifth year. 

The Killenard-based designer, has garnered numerous medals at Bloom festivals over the years and his presence on RTÉ’s Super Garden has also made him a familiar face on our screens.

Woodie's annual Budding Gardeners competition is now open for registration with this year's exciting theme "Plant-a-Pot".

Designed to inspire a love of gardening in young minds, Woodie’s Budding Gardeners encourages children to explore the wonders of nature while learning about the crucial role plants play in our world.

Brian, who has medalled at Bloom, will choose the overall winner who will take home a cash prize of €1,000, along with the five runners-up who will each take home an amazing €500 Woodie's gift card. Brian told the Leinster Express / Laois Live that he's looking forward to seeing this year's entries.

 “Each year, I’m blown away by the standard of entries to Woodie’s Budding Gardeners. It really is a unique and innovative challenge for Ireland’s young gardeners. The children get to pour all of their creativity, imagination and enthusiasm into their projects and along the way learn so much about the superpowers of plants.

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"This year, I’m looking out for projects that demonstrate all of that imagination and enthusiasm but also show that loads of fun was had by all along the way! So, make the choice of pot and plants that’s right for you and I trust that you will mind and nurture them so they look their very best in May.

"I’d encourage as many families, schools and teachers to get involved and, don’t forget, there are lots of great resources available on the Woodie’s website to support your learning and growing along the way. I look forward to seeing the 2025 entries, best of luck everyone,” said the Laois man. MORE ON HOW TO ENTER BELOW PICTURE.

Open to schools and families across the nation, Budding Gardeners entrants are asked to "Plant-a-Pot" and discover all about the superpowers of plants like food, health, beauty, and pollination. Whether it's a fun classroom project of recycled planted pots, an old pot reimagined at home, or a one-of-a-kind creation from scratch, the options are endless for Ireland's young and aspiring budding gardeners for this year's challenge.

To sign up for the 2025 Woodie's Budding Gardeners competition, see www.woodies.ie/Budding-Gardeners.