Master Gardeners introduce Yard of the Month project

Submitted by Judy Petty

Polk County Master Gardeners are pleased to announce the start of a community project. A Polk County resident will be honored each month as having the Yard of the Month; starting March-November, with December being chosen for best decorated home.

A committee made up of volunteer master gardeners will look at yards that are nominated by community members, to assure they are: Wellgroomed and attractive

• Regularly mowed and edge

• Weedless flower beds

• Seasonal color

• Regular mulching of flower beds

• All shrubs trimmed

• Insect control

• Green healthy lawn

• Yard must be free of debris, trash cans, recycle bins, etc.

To nominate a yard, fill out the form below or pick one up at the Polk County extension office. Each nomination submitted will be given a drive-by judging. The winner will receive a specially designed Yard of the Month sign placed in their front yard for one month, a certificate of recognition signed by a Polk County representative, along with their picture being taken for the local newspapers, the Master Gardener website and Master Gardener newsletter. The nominee must be a resident of Polk County and can only receive this award once a year.

March is coming up quickly, so please make your nominations soon and turn them into the Polk County Extension Office.