Paisley nursery is encouraging the public to get behind its colourful creation after being shortlisted in a national gardening competition celebrating sustainability, wildlife and the importance of fresh water.
Hillview ELCC in Paisley has been selected as one of just 26 finalists from across Scotland in the 2026 Pocket Garden Design Competition, organised by environmental charity Keep Scotland Beautiful in partnership with the Garden for Life Forum.
The nursery’s entry, called Hillview Haven, was chosen from more than 170 submissions received from schools and nurseries across 24 local authority areas.
This year’s competition theme was fresh water, with children and young people challenged to design and build a miniature garden that included food for people, was good for wildlife and reused materials.
Hillview Haven features a creative display made from reclaimed materials, including colourful wellington boots used as planters, alongside wildlife-friendly planting, edible plants and a bug hotel. The garden highlights the importance of fresh water for plants, animals and people while encouraging biodiversity and sustainability.
The competition is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year and entrants were also asked to incorporate the number 10 into their designs.
Eve Keepax, Education and Learning Officer at Keep Scotland Beautiful, said: “We’ve been running the Pocket Garden Design Competition for a decade, but once again the design entries, and the transformations from design to real gardens are full of joyful learning. I would like to congratulate all the pupils and educators.
“The competition provides a great way to connect children and young people with the natural world, food growing, and local wildlife while supporting Scotland’s Learning for Sustainability ambitions.
“We’re now calling for people across Scotland to vote for their three favourite designs, so we can recognise the public’s favourite Pocket Garden.”
The charity says the competition helps children and young people develop creativity, practical skills and problem-solving abilities while learning about climate change, biodiversity and sustainability through outdoor activities.
Members of the public can now view all of the finalist gardens online and vote for their three favourites. Voting opened on Friday 12th June and closes on Monday 22nd June 2026.
Residents wishing to support Hillview ELCC can cast their vote at: www.keepscotlandbeautiful.org/pocketgarden.