I Can Create That Garden with Q102

Carleen Osborne

Garden sponsor

About the garden - Medium garden

Sponsored by Dublin’s Q102 and designed to ‘Brighten Your Day’, this debut Bloom Show Garden from Carleen Osborne demonstrates how creating an attractive, practical garden is within everyone’s reach.

The design employs budget-friendly and readily available eco-friendly materials, straightforward construction methods, and a planting scheme underpinned with locally sourced plants. It integrates practical everyday elements, including a discreet retractable drying line and efficient storage for tools.

The zig-zag arrangement of slightly raised walkways guides movement through the garden. The boardwalks and deck are constructed from reclaimed scaffolding boards, charred and sealed to provide a distinctive durable finish. Screens are constructed from affordable roofing battens, while the bespoke furniture is handmade using standard section timber and provides the perfect spot to relax and listen to Q102.

With an easy-to-follow design that is achievable for novice gardeners and DIY beginners, this is a garden that inspires the response, “I can do that!”

About the Designer

Carleen Osborne

Based in Derbyshire, England, Carleen Osborne specialises in designing domestic gardens for private clients. Her work takes a plant-centred approach, with an emphasis on thoughtful planting and low-impact, sustainable design.

After a career in higher education, Carleen retrained in horticulture in 2020, gaining the RHS Level 2 Diploma, and Level 3 Derby College Certificate. She has designed three Show Gardens at BBC Gardeners’ World Live. The Restoration Garden (2023) was awarded a Silver Merit; Share My Space – With Nature (2024) received Gold; and Just a Garden… (2025) achieved Platinum and Best Showcase Garden. This is her first Bloom Show Garden.

About the sponsor

Q102 is Dublin’s feel-good station, bringing great music, uplifting, entertaining conversation, and community together. From Kathryn Thomas on The Morning Show, Liam Coburn mid-days, and Laura Woods on The Home Stretch, Dublin’s Q102 is here to brighten your day!

What is planned for this garden after Bloom?

All elements of this garden will be reused after Bloom. The decking, screens, and furniture will be returned to the designer for use in other projects. The plants will be donated to a local charity selected by Bloom.