Bedding plants back in at refurbished Rose Bowl

‘JEWEL IN THE CROWN’: The Rose Bowl near Queens Gardens

By Simon Bristow, Co-Editor

The traditional Victorian planting surrounding the Rose Bowl and fountain in the city centre is set to make a return this autumn.

It follows the successful renovation of the formal bed areas, ensuring the cherished green space continues to be a focal point of the city’s landscape.

The newly restored beds will feature nearly 11,000 vibrant autumnal bedding plants, including polyanthas and wall flowers, which will now be planted following the settling of new turf and is expected to take a week to complete.

The formal bed areas surrounding the Rose Bowl Fountain are considered the jewel in the crown of the city centre’s green spaces. They have been recognised in both the Yorkshire and Britain in Bloom campaigns, a testament to the dedication and care invested in maintaining the historic gardens by the city council’s grounds maintenance team.

The area had shown signs of wear recently, however, with uneven beds, poor grass cover quality and the soil struggling to retain water. The council began extensive renovations last autumn, revitalising all eight segments of the formal beds.

Councillor Charles Quinn, portfolio holder for environment, said: "The Rose Bowl and Queens Gardens hold a special place in the hearts of Hull’s residents and visitors alike.

“The return of the traditional Victorian planting will add beautiful seasonal colours for us all to enjoy. 

“The newly established turf and the fresh planting around the new multi-stemmed birch and fastigiate elm trees breathe new life into this beloved area.”

The main summer planting scheme will get underway from May 2025.