Community groups across Bedford Borough are invited to add a splash of springtime colour to their neighbourhoods as part of Bedford Borough Council’s popular tulip bulb giveaway.
Following the dazzling floral displays along The Embankment this spring, the Council is offering more than 45,000 tulip bulbs to community organisations, schools, gardens, and residents’ groups that want to brighten their local areas.
The bulbs, which no longer meet the Council’s criteria for reuse in formal displays, still have plenty of life left in them and can transform parks, community gardens and shared spaces.
“Fostering community spirit”
Cllr Sarah Gallagher (Conservative/Shortstown), portfolio holder for customer experience, 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.”
In previous years, bulbs have been distributed to Parish Councils, care homes, schools, Scouts and Guides groups, nature charities, and gardening clubs. This year, the Council encourages even more local groups to get involved.
Success in Kempston
The Green Man Community Garden in Addison Howard Park, Kempston, was one group to benefit from the initiative in 2024.
A spokesperson for the group said: “Our volunteers were keen to recreate a little of The Embankment display in our secluded garden.
“We planted tulip bulbs in one of the raised beds and then began the anxious wait for spring to see 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.”
How to apply
Tulip bulbs are available to community groups on a first-come, first-served basis. To request some, email Bedford Borough Council’s Grounds, Open Spaces and Bereavement team at bugsandbees@bedford.gov.uk by Sunday, 1 June.
Please include the name of your group and where the bulbs will be planted.
While tulips often bloom less impressively in their second year, the bulbs can still bring vibrant colour to community spaces, particularly when planted in clusters or alongside other spring flowers.
To find out more about the Green Man Community Garden, email kempstongmg@gmail.com or visit their Facebook page.
