Public parks and road verges are seeing a significant shift away from annual bedding flowers as local councils embrace biodiversity initiatives. New figures indicate that ten percent of local authorities have discontinued the practice of planting annuals, which are typically replaced each year, in favor of more sustainable perennial options.
This trend aims to foster greater biodiversity, protect insect species, and enhance soil health. Perennial plants are designed to provide year-round interest and resilience, a departure from the seasonal, showy displays of annuals.
Thanet District Council in Kent was an early adopter of this approach five years ago, transforming its flower beds to create habitats for pollinators and other insects, thereby improving soil life and aesthetic appeal. Since then, councils such as Wakefield, Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole, and Cambridge have followed suit, ceasing the planting of annuals in their borders.
Senior gardener Jack Stooks noted that annual planting is outdated given current knowledge of environmental needs. "There's no excuse for planting annuals nowadays," Stooks said, emphasizing the benefits of perennials for retaining moisture, supporting soil organisms like worms, and contributing to overall biodiversity. He also highlighted the cost-effectiveness of perennial planting compared to the recurring expense of annuals.
Despite the growing emphasis on biodiversity, which will be highlighted at events like the RHS Sandringham Flower Show with a special prize from King Charles for a biodiversity exhibit, councils continue to spend substantial amounts on annuals. Data reveals that approximately 40 percent of councils, 155 out of 382, collectively spent £2.9 million on annuals last year. Notably, Bromley, London's largest borough, spent £343,502 on planting and maintaining annuals, while Rochdale Borough Council incurred costs of £130,756.
Award-winning garden designer Tom Massey acknowledged a growing recognition among councils for more cost-effective and resilient planting schemes. He pointed to institutions like the RHS, The National Trust, and Hampton Court Palace shifting towards displays that rely less on annuals, signaling a broader cultural change. Massey stated that well-designed perennial planting offers year-round appeal, supports wildlife, improves climate resilience, and reduces maintenance and replanting needs. He advocates for public planting schemes that integrate trees, shrubs, grasses, and herbaceous plants to create ecologically functional and attractive landscapes.
Local authorities are also adapting their strategies. A spokeswoman for Rochdale Council confirmed their increasing adoption of sustainable planting methods, including wildflowers and sedum, to boost biodiversity, reduce waste, and lower costs. This includes incorporating more perennials into existing schemes and replacing some annual displays with perennial alternatives. Similarly, Bromley councillor Josh Coldspring-White indicated the council's efforts to explore more sustainable planting options through pilot programs, while managing resources efficiently.