The City of Edmonton kicked off its annual Front Yards in Bloom program with a special tribute to Canada’s 150th anniversary of Confederation, and a creative competition between some city councillors. The Great Plant-Off event saw Councillors Bev Esslinger, Mike Nickel, Mohinder Banga and Tony Caterina racing against the clock to create the most attractive “Uniquely Canadian,” ornamental or edible theme-based planter. Their designs are up for review by the public, who can vote by “liking” their favourite planter on the City’s Facebook page from May 19-26. 

“Just as the Councillors explored their creativity with flowers, Edmontonians are encouraged to use their green thumbs and make their yards beautiful,” says Amber Brant, Community Greening Coordinator. "Front Yards in Bloom is a popular program that recognizes efforts to make our community green and attractive. In 2016, there were more than 5,000 nominations from appreciative neighbours.” This year, citizens can nominate their neighbours’ yards in one of five categories: General, Edible, Natural, Public Spaces and Uniquely Canadian. The last category was added in honour of Canada’s special milestone. 

Edmonton’s Front Yards in Bloom, running since 1999, is now the largest program of its kind across Canada. Citizens’ beautification efforts are one of the reasons Edmonton won the 2016 Communities in Bloom national competition. 

Front Yards in Bloom is a partner program run by the Edmonton Horticultural Society, the Canadian Union of Postal Workers, the City of Edmonton and supported by various corporate sponsors and donors. Nominations are open May 20 to June 30 and can be submitted online at frontyardsinbloom.ca or by calling 311. Early bird nominations (May 20 - June 14) will be entered to win a draw prize.