RESULTS Gardening Competition 2025

This year's Castleknock TidyTowns annual gardening competition was based on entries recounting 'The Story of My Garden'. Of the many, many entries received and following the garden visits by the CTT panel of judges... we now have a winner!

Derek Tindall accepts his award from Patricia Sheehan, Chairperson of Castleknock TidyTowns

WINNER - Derek Tisdall, Cherry Drive

This garden was simply outstanding and a very worthy winner. Scroll down to see some fabulous photos.

Whilst this garden’s current incarnation is new, the owners have traced its history back to its original function as a stud farm. The railway track which was used to move horses still runs along the back of the garden and the retaining wall with its ivy covering holds back the brambles and trees just as it did in the old photographs. The garden's story continues as the area became a housing development and as the previous resident shaped the garden into its current layout. Derek fell in love with the plot because of the garden. After months of house hunting he had finally found one with a garden that he could make his own. His work on the garden started even before the work on the house was completed. The planting was revamped with a fresh blend of colourful pollinator-friendly plants. The little herb area is situated right beside the kitchen doors. The patio is softened with pots planted with trees and shrubs which are immaculately cared for. The folding doors allow the garden to become a key part of the home. The paved area has a lovely dining area to enjoy al fresco meals. The discrete water feature provides a relaxing background sound whilst providing a valuable water source for the birds while they visit the bird table and nesting box. The trees outside the boundary give height and balance to the garden. The planting has now melded into a sumptuous riot of colour and textures. Overall, this space provides a secluded, peaceful retreat for people, pollinators and birds. And it was a pleasure for CTT to award it this year's top prize.

Joint 2nd - Elizabeth & John Bonnar, Deerpark Road

This is a delightful garden which has evolved over the years in the sympathetic hands of its owners. The immediate overall feeling is one of calmness and tranquility. There is a careful mix of softly curved green lawn which is surrounded by mature trees, black bamboo and the very pleasant surprise of a luscious mature fig tree. The stand of mature silver birch trees is a delight. It is said that 'a garden should never reveal all its glory at once'. This garden is a case in point, with pathways to hidden features that appeal to young and old. There is the well-placed bench shaded by mature trees creating a woodland effect, surprising in a city garden. This is supplemented by the lush planting, suitable to a woodland environment. Black bamboo is used very effectively and this is enhanced by the placing of a pathway and the ingenious use of a mirror which gives the effect of walking through to a bamboo forest. This is a magical garden, carefully planned and cleverly allowed to evolve over the years by people who understand nature.

Joint 2nd - Gareth Flinter, Fairhaven Walk

Whilst this was the smallest garden shortlisted, it certainly punched well above its weight! Gareth has made the most of it with clever hardscaping as well as superb plants and trees. This north facing garden was very bright, relaxing and just beautifully planted. Garrett moved in five years ago and had the garden constructed to his own spec. He wanted a small lawn area, Acers used in pots, ornamental grasses and beautiful roses. Now the overall effect now is one of bright colour, pots with plants softening the corners and ornamental trees creating interest and texture. The garden's centrepiece is a very inviting dining area, sheltered and screened by the two rectangular shaped trees behind. This garden wraps itself around anyone enjoying the space to sit and read a book or to enjoy a meal outdoors. Add in the little bird house and lovely granite-based sculpture of a tree bent in the wind, and it is really lovely!

Winner: Best Estate Category - Deerpark Estate

Congratulations !

Deerpark was considered for the best estate award based on the highest number of entries per estate. Deerpark was chosen as winner due to its outstanding blend of natural beauty, thoughtful landscaping and strong community amenities. Striking granite stone name signs, which are framed by pollinator-friendly wildflower beds, welcome residents and visitors at the entrances setting a tone of pride and care. The estate’s expansive green spaces, mature trees and well-maintained paths offer a peaceful place to walk, while open greens provide a safe and inviting area for children to play. The balance of biodiversity, visual appeal and community use makes Deerpark a standout example of what a well-cared-for estate can achieve.

John Dillon, Chairperson of DARA (Deerpark Area Resident Association) accepts the Best Estate 2025 Award.

Thanks to Wong's, Castleknock who were once again the generous sponsors of this event this year.

Thanks to everyone who entered their garden in to this year's competition for consideration. The judges noted that the use of water butts and those composting in their gardens has increased. The practice of mulching to improve soil quality also seemed to be a common key factor for success. Good rich soil makes for great healthy planting.

Well done to the winner and runners up. Castleknock, keep up the good work!