The Kiama Garden Club is calling for entries to their annual Spring Garden Competition, with registrations closing Friday 19 September and judging taking place in early October.

Competition coordinator Ursula Lischer says the club’s motto is “friendship through gardening”, a sentiment that reflects the welcoming nature of the group that meets on the fourth Friday of each month.

“We've been told it's a very friendly club, and I know that that's true,” said Ursula.

The competition features seven categories designed to accommodate all types of gardens including a new category this year for gardens under 400 square metres.

The other categories include gardens over 1000 square metres, gardens between 400 and 1000 square metres, predominantly native garden, edible garden, children’s garden, and courtyard, balcony or indoor garden.

“Even if you have one of those really small gardens…The under 400 is a new category this year that we've introduced just for those people,” Ursula said.

The judging process focuses on the overall aesthetics of the garden first, as well as plant harmony, design, and maintenance. The judging is a casual process where the judges are often eager to talk to the owners about their gardens, enthusiastically sharing ideas.

The Spring Garden Competition presentation will be held on Friday 24 October, with prizes to be awarded to participants and winners.

Entry forms are available from sponsors Burnetts On Barney and Elders Jamberoo, as well as Kiama Library. Entry is free and those wishing to participate can also email [email protected] for entry forms.