A Farewell to Front Yards in Bloom

I was deeply saddened to learn that the Front Yards in Bloom program has come to an end after 25 years. More than just a competition, it was a celebration of how gardens weave beauty, nature, and community together. It acknowledged the hard work people put into transforming their yards into thriving spaces that benefit both wildlife and the environment. Even when I did not have a garden space of my own, I found joy in looking at the photos of nominees and winners each year. They provided endless inspiration and ideas for what was possible in our short growing season, fueling my passion for gardening. While the program’s conclusion may be disheartening, I hope that it does not discourage others from pursuing their own gardening journeys. The rewards of cultivating a garden – whether big or small, are countless, and gardens will continue to hold power in bringing beauty, peace, and ecological benefit, regardless of formal recognition.

Gardens have long served as a powerful connection – not only to nature but also to our communities. Beyond their beauty, they support wildlife, enhance biodiversity, and provide countless benefits to our mental and physical well-being. Whether it is growing food, nurturing herbal and medicinal plants, or creating pollinator-friendly spaces, gardens offer a wealth of valuable resources. They improve air quality, reduce CO2 emissions, and foster a profound sense of pride. Gardens create opportunities for intergenerational bonds, skill-sharing and learning, while offering us a deep sense of accomplishment and purpose. Though the program concludes, it continues to remind us how gardens, big or small – bring people together, spark creativity, and make our neighbourhoods bloom. They become spaces where stories are shared, skills are passed down, and a deeper connection to the land and each other is nurtured. Leaving a lasting imprint on both our landscapes and our lives.

In 2021, I began my gardening journey on the balcony of the condo we were renting. As a complete beginner, I was not sure how it would go, but I managed to keep everything alive (though full credit goes to my husband, who actually remembered to water the plants) and quickly developed a deep appreciation for that little patch of nature right outside my door. To my surprise, we ended up winning first place in the Balconies in Bloom category. Being nominated had always been a goal of mine, so winning was beyond anything I could have imagined. Throughout that season, I shared my journey – the learning curve, the small victories, and the inevitable setbacks. I wanted to show that gardening does not require a large yard or years of experience. Even a small balcony can be transformed into a thriving, inspiring space, and the simple act of growing can spark curiosity and creativity in others.

When we bought our house at the end of 2023, I was thrilled to finally have a yard of our own. I could not wait to begin transforming it into a space that nurtures both nature and community, with a focus on native plants and thoughtful, intentional landscaping. I learned that the original owner had been nominated for her stunning garden, a testament to how this yard had already contributed to the beauty of the neighbourhood – and something I aspire to continue. While I know it will take time to complete our re-landscaping project, I am hopeful that our version of the yard will one day inspire others and contribute meaningfully to the character and charm of the community.

I am hopeful by the news that the Edmonton Horticultural Society and other partners are exploring ways to plant the seeds to keep the spirit of Front Yards in Bloom alive. I truly hope something new can grow from what has been such a meaningful initiative for so many, and that whatever the new program is, it will encourage, educate, and celebrate the use of Alberta’s native plant species. Along with this, I hope the program will inspire residents to make use of all aspects of their properties – from front yards to side yards, backyards, boulevards, and even alleys. These often-overlooked spaces offer a wealth of potential for expanding green areas, supporting wildlife, and cultivating native plant gardens.

By highlighting Alberta’s native plants and encouraging the use of every corner of our spaces, the program can help us better support our local pollinators, reduce water usage by promoting drought-tolerant species, and create thriving, sustainable ecosystems in our yards. Native plants are well-suited to local climates, requiring no pesticides or fertilizers, which not only helps maintain a healthy environment but also reduces the carbon footprint of our gardening efforts. Additionally, they contribute to the health of our local wildlife, improving biodiversity and fostering stronger connections to the natural world.

In becoming a steward of this little patch of land that we now call home, I have come to see gardening not just as a hobby, but as a meaningful way to contribute to the health of our ecosystem. With care and respect for both the land and the wildlife it sustains, I will continue shaping this space, fostering a sanctuary where nature and ourselves can thrive together. Each step bringing us closer to a thriving, connected yard.

I truly believe that gardens have the power to transform not just our yards, but our communities. Beyond their ecological benefits, gardening has become my sanctuary – an escape where I can unwind and reconnect with nature. As I continue this journey, I am also working towards earning a Wildlife Habitat Certification for our yard. This certification is a tangible way to measure the positive impact we can have, but it is also a personal commitment to sustainable gardening practices that prioritize ecological well-being. My aim is to cultivate a space that not only nurtures the local ecosystem but also inspires others to plant native species, ultimately contributing to the well-being of our environment. I hope that by sharing this journey, others will be encouraged to make their own positive impact.

While Front Yards in Bloom has come to an end, it leaves behind a legacy that we can continue to build on. The spirit of the program – the joy of cultivating beauty, fostering community, and supporting the environment – does not have to fade away. We can carry it forward, finding new ways to celebrate our gardens and their contributions to the world around us. Every planted seed, every pollinator-friendly patch, and every blooming yard continues that spirit.

As we work to nurture our own gardens, let’s also take the time to appreciate the efforts of our neighbors. Share seeds or seedlings, exchange gardening tips, or offer a helping hand when someone is in need. By supporting each other in our gardening journeys, we can strengthen our sense of community and create connections that go beyond the flowers we plant. Whether it is admiring a neighbor’s garden or collaborating on a larger project, these simple acts help build a spirit of unity and shared purpose.

If this post sparked an idea, made you pause, or nudged you to notice the life in your own space, share it. Every share spreads the invitation: to garden with purpose, to rewild a yard, to create a place wildlife trusts – and helps this little patch of land inspire more backyard birders, native plant gardeners, and nature-lovers.

Thanks for reading! Until next time,
Tracey

INFORMATION

• City of Edmonton’s Front Yards in Bloom Announcement
• Edmonton Horticultural Society Front Yards in Bloom page
• 2021 Front Yards / Balconies in Bloom Winner Post
• Wildlife Habitat Certification

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If you enjoy what I share and want to support my journey to rewild and document this little patch of land, you can do so through my Ko-fi page. Your support helps me continue photographing, nurturing, and sharing this space with you.

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