Public parks and road verges across the United Kingdom are seeing a shift away from traditional annual bedding plants as local councils increasingly prioritize biodiversity. New figures suggest that ten percent of local authorities have abandoned yearly replanting of colorful blooms in favor of hardier perennial species, which are more beneficial for insect populations and soil health.
This trend follows initiatives like the one adopted by Thanet District Council in Kent five years ago, which transformed its flower beds to create habitats for pollinators and enhance soil life. Since then, councils including Wakefield, Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole, and Cambridge have reportedly followed suit.
Senior gardener Jack Stooks noted that planting annuals is no longer considered necessary, given the increased understanding of environmental needs. "We now know so much more about health and the environment and the need to protect our bees, insects and soils," Stooks said. He added that perennial plants offer year-round interest, help retain moisture, and contribute to soil health through processes like leaf decomposition by worms, ultimately supporting biodiversity.
Despite the move towards more sustainable planting, councils collectively spent approximately £2.9 million on annuals last year, according to data from a Freedom of Information request covering 155 out of 382 councils. Bromley, London's largest borough, reported spending £343,502 on annuals, while Rochdale Borough Council spent £130,756.
Award-winning garden designer Tom Massey stated there is growing recognition of the need for cost-effective and resilient planting schemes. He pointed to institutions like the RHS, The National Trust, and Hampton Court Palace also moving towards displays that rely less on bedding plants. Massey believes well-designed perennial planting can provide year-round appeal, support wildlife, enhance climate resilience, and reduce maintenance costs and the need for frequent replanting and transport.
A spokesperson for Rochdale Council confirmed that the authority is increasingly adopting sustainable planting schemes, including wildflowers and sedum, to boost biodiversity, reduce waste, and cut costs. This includes replacing some annual displays with perennial planting and integrating perennials into existing schemes.