The much-loved annual Potato Growing Challenge is back for 2026, with people of all ages invited to roll up their sleeves, have a bit of fun, and grow their way to glory – all while supporting a vital local heart charity.

Run by the North Gwent Cardiac Rehabilitation & Aftercare Charity, the annual challenge, now in its fifth year, raises funds to support long-term cardiac rehabilitation exercise classes for people living with heart conditions across the North Gwent region.

This year, the charity is especially keen to involve local schools and community groups, encouraging even more people to get growing together.

Entry costs £5 and includes the competition kit – 1 x10 litre pot and 1 x Charlotte seed potato.

“It’s a simple, friendly way to get involved in gardening, whether you’re a seasoned grower or trying it for the first time,” says Charity Chair Jacky Miles, MBE, “And we’re delighted that the fabulous team at the Abergavenny Garden Centre will be sponsoring the challenge once again.”

 

Where to get your kit

Kits go on sale this month at the following locations:

• Saturday 7 March, 12pm-4pm

Treebeards Bar, High Street, Crickhowell

• 14-15 March and 21-22 March, 10am-4pm

Abergavenny Garden Centre, Llanfoist

 

Who can enter

The competition is open to everyone, with two classes:

• Children (up to age 16)

• Adults (16 and over)

Schools, youth groups, gardening clubs, allotments and other community organisations are warmly invited to take part and grow alongside the wider community.

 

How the challenge works

Growers will have four months to nurture their potato plants before bringing their pots to the Abergavenny Garden Centre for the official “Grand Reveal” and weigh in on Saturday 11 July, from 2pm-4pm.

The winners will be the growers of the top two x heaviest recorded harvests in each class, with garden centre vouchers awarded as prizes:

Children

1st prize: £10 voucher

2nd prize: £5 voucher

Adults

1st prize: £20 voucher

2nd prize: £15 voucher

 

Growing for good

Proceeds from entry fees will help fund the Charity’s mission, providing specialised long-term exercise classes and support for people living with heart conditions. By taking part, you’ll be helping the charity continue its life-changing work in communities across North Gwent.