Skip to main content

Last Call to Enter Chicago Gardening Awards

July 7 is the deadline for entering the third annual Chicago Excellence in Gardening Awards (CEGA), Chicago’s only citywide gardening honors. Entry is free and open to the public. The awards recognize the hard work and creativity that make Chicago a healthier, more beautiful and more sustainable place.

       Any garden type is welcome, including vegetable, ornamental, container, mixed use and specialized gardens (including green roof or wall, enabling and rain). The contest includes these categories: residential, small (up to four units); residential, large (five units and over); school; community garden; other organizations (business, church, fire department, etc.); and urban farms. As always, CEGA recognizes and rewards sustainability in the areas of native plant choices, water conservation, pesticide use, habitat restoration and more.

         This year, the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago has donated five high-quality rain barrels. Entrants will have a chance to win one of these barrels for their garden. In addition, everyone that enters their garden in CEGA will receive a $15 gift certificate from City Grange garden center (CityGrange.com).

         CEGA is open to residents of the city of Chicago. Only one entry per garden will be accepted. Submit online by July 7. Mailed entry forms must be postmarked by June 30. Judging begins in mid-July. Winners will be notified by late summer, with awards presented in October.

 

For more information, visit ChicagoGardeningAwards.org or email [email protected]. To enter, visit ChicagoGardeningAwards.org/enter-your-garden.