Supporting communities  |  29 Nov 2022

Does your garden have a cornucopia of produce with tasty tomatoes, bountiful beans or crisp carrots?

You could be a contender for the 2023 Edible and Sustainable Garden Awards with entries open from now until January 10.

From veggie plots to garden pots, entry is free and open to everyone living in the Papanui Innes-Central, Spreydon-Cashmere-Heathcote, Waitai Coastal-Burwood-Linwood and Fendalton-Waimari-Harewood Community Board areas.

The awards are an opportunity to recognise individuals, schools, early learning centres, community groups or businesses who create and maintain flourishing edible gardens.

The McFarlane Park Community Garden was a winner in the Edible and Sustainable Garden Awards last year.

“Food gardens are having a real renaissance at the moment. So many people are enjoying having the freshness of their own summer fruits, vegetables and herbs growing on patios and in backyards.

“It’s a very satisfying thing to do but it also takes effort and these awards are all about recognising the hard work and skill involved in growing and harvesting your own food, whether it’s for yourself, your family, friends or community.

“Whether you’re a first time grower or a seasoned old-timer, a group or an individual, make sure that you put in an entry, or nominate someone else’s garden (with their permission!)” says Christchurch City Council Community Governance Manager Matt McLintock.

Once entries have been submitted, Canterbury Horticultural Society members will arrange to visit your garden in early 2023 and offer advice and feedback on things like weed management, companion planting, crop rotation and plant health.

“If you’ve entered previously it’s not a problem, you can enter again and all entrants will be recognised for their efforts. This is a great opportunity to have your mahi celebrated and get some ideas and inspiration so that your garden will keep evolving,” Mr McLintock says.

Enter online or request an entry form by phoning the Council on 03 941 8999. Entries close 5pm on Tuesday 10 January.