Judging

 

 
Criteria

Judges will consider the following when selecting a winning yard:

Overall attractiveness:
Curb appeal; pleasing color, form, texture, contour; plants are well maintained; weeds kept to a minimum

Appropriate plant selection:
Climate-appropriate plant palette; minimal or functional turf; functional landscape, meets needs of owners

Design:
Landscaping is able to thrive with less water, has adequate plant coverage, permeable soils, and takes advantage of site features like shade, micro-climates, or low-lying flood areas; landscaping also meets needs of owners

Appropriate maintenance:
Mulch; weeds kept to a minimum; plants neat, tidy and attractive

Efficient methods of irrigation:
Uses appropriate irrigation equipment for plant material, such as drip irrigation or efficient rotating spray nozzles; water consumption is appropriate to area; uses smart controllers or irrigation sensors; irrigation is supplemented with rainwater capture or other water
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Overall water efficiency will be evaluated. The competition committee reserves the right to issue no award if the entries are deemed undeserving. Judges’ decisions are final.

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See our Tips page to learn how to improve your chances of winning.

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