Entries are now open for our annual garden competition 2026.
Who can apply
The competition is open to anyone living in East Ayrshire with a garden, no matter how big or small, which is maintained by themselves and not a professional gardener. There are prizes and trophies up for grabs.
Previous entrants do not need to apply. If you do not wish to take part please let us know using the contact details below.
Housing areas and categories
The judging will take place across three housing areas:
- Cumnock and Doon Valley
- Irvine Valley, Ballochmyle and Kilmarnock South
- Kilmarnock Central and North
A winner and runner up are selected in each of the following categories:
- Best Council garden
- Best private garden
- Best planters or hanging baskets
- Best vegetable garden
- Best newcomer
- Environmentally friendly
- The Jennifer Elliot memorial award (rose garden)
- Special achievement award
- East Ayrshire Overall winners
There are also three exciting categories for communities:
- Clean, green, vibrant street
- Clean, green, vibrant town or village
- The John McKenzie memorial award (best community garden)
How to nominate
Please complete the form below with as much information and contact details as possible.
Enter the 2026 Garden Competition
Judging of the event
Please note that judging will take between 1 July 2026 and 31 July 2026. We will contact you nearer the time to arrange any access required.
This year we are offering entrants the chance to send us photos of their garden as part of the judging process. Please email customerliaisonteam@east-ayrshire.gov.uk with three of your best photos highlighting your garden, along with your name and address.
The winner of each category will be chosen by council officers from Housing and Greener Communities. The overall winners will be selected by tenant representatives.
Winners and runners-up will be invited to attend a prize-giving later in the year.
Good luck everyone!