A unique feature of the Malvern Spring Gardening Show was the Borders Without Gardens exhibit, where designers were judged for plantsmanship and creativity.

Just like the showgardens, these are borders are awarded Royal Horticultural medals, with one border being crowned overall winner. The exhibitors were given a grant of up to £600 towards their plant material; each border had to be 15m x 15m, but designers were given the freedom to choose their own theme.

The winning bed was Casino Royale, designed by Inspire Gardens. No prizes for guessing that the rich texture of colours, steely landscaping and little twist, courtesy of the 007 monogram that is synonomous with James Bond, was an explosive combination for the judges.

Warwickshire College entered two borders. Jewelled Box was the most colourful of the two with red, oranges, yellows, limes and even purples set amid more formally-clipped topiary. Emeralds And Diamonds, however, was slightly more laid back, showcasing plants that do well in shady conditions - lots of architectural foilage punctuated by whites and mauves.

Jardin Sin Agua by Kelsey Florence Garden Design went, as the title suggests, with drought-tolerant plants set amid a leaf-shaped border. Architectural elements were added such as a central wooden walkway and African metalwork sculptures.

Glimpses of Gaudi, by Claire Tubb, mirrored the quirky shapes and understated palette of architect Antoni Gaudi. The eye was drawn to the bold, modern, steel sculpture - the whole creation coming together within the minimalist white stone border wall.

Another border to use a white colour scheme - this time thanks to recycled porcelain chippings which contrasted the leafy architectural statements within - was Lush and Lazy, by Nick Jago. Designed to be a low-maintenance border, tropical plants were set within a live bamboo backdrop.

Pembrokeshire Promise, by Sue Wakeman Diamond, was far more traditional, evoking memories of the Pembrokeshire countryside. Here, themes of recycling, eating and the economy were displayed in the relaxed layout.

A Scrumping Delight by A Passion for Plant Design also felt traditional, with a mixture of cottage garden-style planting of lupins, poppies, delphiniums and irises framed by a weeping cherry tree and the "scrumping element" - step-over apples.

The final border, To Wildlife and Beyond, designed by Suzannah Wolstenholme, sought to blend traditional hay meadow into deciduous woodland - with the obvious appeal to wildlife.

Explore Gardens

• Hampton Court Palace Flower Show

• Chelsea Flower Show

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