LINCOLN SQUARE — How does your garden grow?
If the answer to that question is "Quite spectacularly, thank you very much," it's time to be rewarded for your watering, weeding and fertilizing efforts.
The inaugural Chicago Excellence in Gardening Awards is accepting entries through July 7, with winners to be honored at a celebration in September.
The competition is divided into four garden types: ornamental, vegetable, container and specialized gardens (think green roof, rain garden or sidewalk cafe).
Within each garden type, awards will be handed out in four categories: small residential, large residential, schools, and other organizations (churches, businesses, etc.).
Horticulture professionals and master gardeners will serve as judges and will pay personal visits to finalists' gardens.
Complete details regarding the application process are available online.
The competition is open to Chicago residents only.
The awards are sponsored by The Mike Nowak Show, University of Illinois Extension, Shedd Aquarium, Chicago Community Gardeners Association, Natural Awakenings Chicago and The Chicago Flower and Garden Show.