Bedford Borough Council has announced the return of its popular annual tulip bulb giveaway, inviting local community groups to brighten their neighbourhoods with vibrant spring colours. This year, the Council has over 45,000 tulip bulbs available for distribution, continuing its tradition of supporting community-led planting initiatives.
Following the spectacular springtime floral displays of tulips, daffodils and annual bedding plants along The Embankment this spring, the bulbs are now ready to be shared with community groups across the borough. This initiative has previously benefited a wide range of organisations, including Parish Councils, schools, religious groups, community gardens, nature groups, scouts, brownies, care homes, hospices, and resident associations.
Councillor Sarah Gallagher, Portfolio Holder for Customer Experience at Bedford Borough Council, said, “This year’s tulip display along The Embankment was truly breathtaking, with over 45,000 bulbs bringing a splash of colour to our borough. Now that the blooms have finished, we are excited to offer these tulip bulbs to local community groups. This not only helps to beautify our communities but also encourages people to come together, fostering a strong sense of community spirit.”
A spokesperson for the Green Man Community Garden, in Addison Howard Park, Kempston, said, “Our volunteers have been keen to re-create a little of the Bedford Embankment display in their secluded garden, tucked away at the back of The Grange in Addison Howard Park.
“Bulbs from the 2024 Bedford Borough Council’s Tulip Bulb Giveaway were planted in one of the raised beds and then began the anxious wait for Spring to find out if they had survived the squirrels! April brought a truly spectacular and long-lasting display of different varieties, creating a beautiful focal point in the garden for all to enjoy.”
Community groups interested in receiving tulip bulbs this year should email the Grounds, Open Spaces and Bereavement team at Bedford Borough Council: bugsandbees@bedford.gov.uk
Please include the name of your group and the intended planting location in your request. The closing date for applications is Sunday 1 June.
Tulip bulbs don’t tend to flower so well in their second year. While they will still make a lovely addition to any garden or community space, this is the reason why the Council don’t re-use them in the formal annual bedding display along The Embankment.
Don’t miss this wonderful opportunity to bring a splash of spring colour to your local area.
Find out more about the Green Man Community Garden by emailing the volunteer group kempstongmg@gmail.com or viewing their Facebook page www.facebook.com/GreenManCommunityGardenKempston