Applications are now open for a BBC competition held at Audley End House and Gardens in Saffron Walden.

The BBC Gardeners’ World Autumn Fair Beautiful Borders competition invites garden design enthusiasts to showcase their talent.

The event, in association with English Heritage, will take place from August 29 to 31 next year,

The Beautiful Borders are compact, 9m² show gardens, filled with creative design features and imaginative planting.

Lucy Tremlett, event director at Immediate Live, organisers of BBC Gardeners’ World events, said: "We – and our visitors - never cease to be impressed at the creativity that goes into the Beautiful Borders.

"The designs are not only technically brilliant with an eye-catching aesthetic, but really come from the heart, often reflecting a designer’s personal story, journey or experience: we can’t wait to see them."

The theme for the 2025 competition is 'Cultivating Connections', inspired by the power of garden spaces, no matter how small, to foster meaningful connections.

Entries are assessed on-site by professional assessors, with medals and awards presented for Best Beautiful Border, Best Interpretation of the Theme, and Best Subscriber Border.

Visitors also vote for their favourite Border in the People's Choice award.

Additionally, 12 bursaries worth £200 each are available for plants and props.

A spokesperson for the event added: "Creating a Beautiful Border is a fantastic opportunity to gain show garden experience at a large-scale public event and to showcase your skills to a large, enthusiastic audience.

"Whether you’re a design or landscaping professional, a first-time designer or student, or a gardening club, community group or charity, BBC Gardeners’ World events’ friendly and experienced horticultural team support entrants every step of the way, from application to final build."

To enter a Beautiful Border for the BBC Gardeners’ World Autumn Fair 2025, download the application form and find full details at bbcgardenersworldfair.com.

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Applications close on May 1, 2025.

Tickets for the fair go on sale in the spring and include full access to Audley End House, grounds, and gardens.

Highlights include inspiring showcase gardens, the Association of Professional Landscapers’ skills competition, and garden chats with BBC Gardeners’ World presenters.