Jeanette Ross, a resident of Dalkeith, has been awarded first prize in Midlothian's annual tenant garden competition for her compact and colourful front garden. Judges praised the garden for its ability to cheer up the street and bring smiles to passers-by.
Making the most of a modest space, Jeanette has filled her garden with a wide array of flowers in pots, planters, beds, and borders. She described the win as feeling "great" and a "two-year ambition" since retiring, enjoying the "flowers and the bees" from her garden.
Having moved to the Kipppielaw property seven years ago, Jeanette initially intended to simply brighten the space with a few flower pots. However, she soon became passionate about gardening, and the space evolved significantly. She dedicates herself to maintaining the garden year-round, preparing for seasonal changes like planting winter pansies after the first frost and getting bulbs ready.
The garden remains striking in autumn and is enhanced by outdoor lights, making it "absolutely beautiful - everybody stops to look" even at night, according to Jeanette.
Cllr Stuart Mackenzie, Cabinet Member for Housing Services & Community Empowerment and a member of the judging panel, commented that Jeanette's garden "gave pleasure to everyone who passed it." He added that she "really shares the beauty of gardening with her neighbours and her hard work has really paid off."
Marvra Hamilton, from Danderhall, secured a "surprise" second place, having not entered the competition herself. A neighbour submitted her garden for consideration. Marvra expressed her disbelief and delight at winning second place, calling it "a complete shock. Fame at last!"
Marvra describes her sheltered suburban garden, where she has lived for over four decades, as a "work in progress." Once primarily used for growing vegetables, it has transformed into a "serene ‘outdoor living room’" with an emphasis on ease of maintenance and ample seating.
Cllr Mackenzie noted that Marvra's garden was a "firm favourite with the judges" and a "very credible second." He highlighted the evident hard work and the creation of a "great space for her and her family."
This year's prizes, a £25 voucher for first place and £15 for second, were provided by Pentland Plants. The Tenant Garden competition is set to return in the spring, inviting residents to showcase their gardens.
