Ryde has a long history of gardening which can be traced back to early European settlement. To celebrate this tradition and to showcase the local green thumbs in the community, the City of Ryde holds an inaugural Spring Garden Competition. This competition is open to local residents, community groups, schools and businesses who wish to promote beautiful, sustainable and creative gardens.

There are seven categories for entry: Most Beautiful Garden – Large, Most Beautiful Garden – Small, Best Edible Garden, Most Beautiful Courtyard or Balcony Garden, Best Bush Care Site, Best Children’s Garden, Best School Garden, Best Pre-School Garden and Most Beautiful Commercial Garden.  Judging for the competition is based on three main factors:

  • Maintenance – the lack of elements such as dead or diseased plants, well presented lawns and clipped shrubs, considered water usage and overall attention to detail.
  • Design – aspects such as layout, colour, use of line, form and texture, plant use and attention to detail.
  • Intent – the active participation of the entrant, level of knowledge and enthusiasm and extent of third party assistance.

The competition started as part of the local Granny Smith Festival, but has branched out into its own event, growing bigger and more competitive every year. Initially only one prize was awarded per category, but the continued level of outstanding applicants has seen 2nd and 3rd prizes also be announced.

Announcing the awards for the annual competition, City of Ryde Mayor, Ivan Petch said:

“While the creators of these beautiful gardens and spaces are singled out for praise it’s the neighbours, visitors and passers-by, not to mention the City’s green reputation, who are the overall winners in this competition”.

To see photos of the winning entries in the City of Ryde 2012 Spring Garden Competition and to find some inspiration for your own front yard, go to www.ryde.nsw.gov.au/springgardencompetition

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