Charlottetown gardening program gets new name, category upgrade

A program to recognize those who keep Charlottetown looking nice is getting an overhaul with a new name and updating the categories.

The program, now calledMake Our Hometown Beautiful is accepting submissions for eight categories.

The city says itsprogram will recognize residents and businesses that maintain buildings and landscapes in city limits.

Those interested canself-nominate or nominate someone else untilJuly 17.

"We decided to give this program a bit of an overhaul by updating the categories, the name and broadening our focus to include recognition for sustainable practices, environmental stewardship and community engagement," said Mayor Clifford Lee.

Pride in properties

The mayor said many residents take pride in their properties and the city wanted to tie the programback to its own sustainability efforts to honourthose going above and beyond for the community and environment.

The categories includecommercial properties, curb appeal, edible gardens, gardening in small spaces, community engagement, children and youth gardens, birds and the bees, water wise garden and the Mayor's Award.

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All the categories will be judged on unique features, variety and colour of flowers, design and overall aesthetics. Also noted will be evidence of environmentally friendly, sustainable practices.

Entrants should include photos or stories to support their submission to the program.

All the submissions will be judged by volunteers from July 29 to August 4 and awards will be presented in September.

The Mayor's Award will be presented by Charlottetown Mayor Clifford Lee to the property owner who demonstrates the best overall improvement to their home or grounds.

Anyone wanting to be a volunteer judge can contact city hall.

Submissions forms are available online and at city hall.

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