Get ready to dig in for the return of annual garden competition

AFTER a five-year hiatus due to the Covid-19 pandemic, Omagh Gardening Society is delighted to announce the return of its Annual Garden Competition.

Set to commence from July 17-19 with a closing date for entries on July 6, this popular event welcomes residents of Omagh and surrounding areas to showcase their green-fingered prowess.

During the pandemic, there was a resurgence of interest in gardening as local people rediscovered the joys and benefits of nurturing their outdoor spaces.

With this in mind, the organisers are encouraging and many entrants as possible across the competition’s three categories.

These are: Large gardens over a quarter of an acre, small gardens under a quarter of an acre, and courtyards.

Judges will evaluate entries based on various criteria including design, planting, maintenance, and environmental impact.

Exciting prizes await the winners, with prestigious awards such as the Cera Cup for the best large garden, the Baker Cup for the top small garden, and the Omagh Gardening Society Award for the finest courtyard.

Cash prizes will also be awarded to the top three entries in each category.

Details on how to enter the competition will be available via the UHand social media channels in June. For further information, interested participants can contact the society directly.

‘Interest in gardening’

A spokesperson for Omagh Gardening Society said, “We are delighted that is being re-activated after a five year break, which encompassed the Covid period of restrictions.

“We know that during the lockdown period, there was a resurgence of interest in gardening.

“Many people from across the generations had time to experience for the first time, or rediscover and appreciate, the multiple benefits of their garden space.”

Omagh Gardening Society (initially known as the Omagh and District Horticultural Society) was formed in 1957.

Its first Annual Garden Competition was launched in 1959.

Over the years, the increase in entries, along with the diversification of garden sizes, led to the introduction of different categories.

With more than 70 members, the society meets on the fourth Tuesday of every month in the Silverbirch Hotel, Omagh, at 7.30pm. Upcoming events for Omagh Gardening Society include the ‘Annual Daffodil and Spring Flower Show’ on May 4 and the ‘Garden Competition’ from July 17-19.

So, as we welcome the brighter days of spring, why not embrace the opportunity to reconnect with nature and make the most of your garden spaces for the summer competition.