Green-fingered applicants are encouraged to enter the Beautiful Borders competition at BBC Gardeners' World Autumn Fair.

The Autumn Fair takes place at Audley End House and Gardens in Saffron Walden from August 30 to September 1, 2024.

Gardeners, whether experienced or first-time garden designers, horticultural students, gardening clubs or charities, are invited to build a 'Beautiful Border' - a small show garden which showcases their design flair and skills.

At just nine metres squared, these mini gardens are packed with imaginative design elements, creative features and planting combinations.

Entrants receive support from BBC Gardeners' World Events' horticultural team, and all entries are assessed by esteemed horticulturalists and design experts before medals are awarded.

Headline awards are presented to the most outstanding entries for Best Beautiful Border and Best Subscriber Boarder (for the best design by a subscriber to BBC Gardeners' World magazine).

Visitors to the show can also have their say by voting for their favourite border in the People's Choice Award.

New for 2024 is a £200 bursary for select applicants to spend on plants or props. Grants are limited - with 12 bursaries available - and all applications will be considered on their own merits.

The theme for the 2024 Beautiful Borders competition is 'Share My Space' - demonstrating how to harness the potential of small garden spaces to build a sense of community and bring people together through gardening.

Interpretations of the theme might be an idyllic and quiet oasis, a gardening workshop, a space to share with family and friends or nature and wildlife, or a trip down memory lane.

Lucy Tremlett, head of the horticultural division at Immediate Live, organisers of BBC Gardeners' World Events, said: "The Beautiful Borders are miniature masterpieces, demonstrating that size is no barrier to beauty or functionality.

"No matter what size, gardens are spaces where we can come together, learn from one another, and cultivate a shared green oasis.

"Whether it’s growing vegetables, nurturing pollinators, or simply enjoying fresh air, the Beautiful Borders reflect a creative use of space while inspiring others to make the most of their own gardens.

"These tiny show gardens may be limited in size but there are no limits to the creativity that goes into designing them or their potential."

For information about how to enter visit www.bbcgardenersworldfair.com

You can download an application form at https://bit.ly/AutumnBorderApplication or contact Lucy Tremlett at lucy.tremlett@immediate.co.uk or by calling 020 7150 5130.

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Applications close on May 2, 2024.

The winner of the 2023 Beautiful Borders competition was Free Thinking by Rachel Sporborg, inspired by artist David Tremlett's wall drawing 'Drawing for Free Thinking' at Tate Britain.

Tickets for the BBC Gardeners' World Autumn Fair go on sale in March 2024. 

In addition to the Beautiful Borders competition, event highlights include show gardens, floral displays, plant and garden shopping, stages featuring gardening tips and advice from BBC Gardeners' World TV presenters, magazine editors and plant experts, garden tours and talks, workshops and demonstrations.

Visitors can also enjoy food, drink and live entertainment.