Garden Competition 2026

Entries are now closed for our annual garden competition.

Previous entrants do not need to apply. If you do not wish to take part please let us know using the contact details below. We will accept photos of new and current contestants up to and including 31 July 2026

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 (best rose garden)
Special achievement award
East Ayrshire Overall winners
Clean, green, vibrant street
Clean, green, vibrant town or village
The John McKenzie memorial award (best community garden)

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!