Allotment Owner's Stunning Chelsea-Worthy Garden Wins Top Honors

In October 2025, Steve Mills, an allotment owner in Barnet, north London, has been recognized for his exceptional gardening skills. Mills' 14-year-old plot, which he has meticulously tended, has been awarded the Plot of the Year and Best Garden Plot trophies in the Top of the Plots competition, run in association with the National Allotment Society.

Mills' allotment is no ordinary plot - it is a breathtaking show garden that could easily be mistaken for the prestigious Chelsea Flower Show. A sweeping tunnel of over 100 fruit and flower trees leads visitors towards a three-level S-shaped maze of plants, bursting with vibrant colors and lush foliage. Even in the autumn, the plot is abundant with fresh, crunchy pears and apples, as well as a diverse mix of vegetables and ornamental plants.

The head judge, Huw Richards, a renowned author and permaculture gardener, was initially skeptical about the entry, thinking it had been generated by artificial intelligence due to its "uniqueness, work and dedication." However, upon closer inspection, Richards was inspired by Mills' nature-inspired design and the way he has worked in harmony with the land, using techniques like training trees over arches and incorporating a green carpet of lush, striped lawn.

Mills, who works in the grounds maintenance team for Westminster Council, has turned his allotment into a true labor of love, sharing his passion for plants and his desire to inspire others. With his award-winning plot, he hopes to encourage more people to take up gardening and explore the joys of growing their own produce.