Let’s Keep Decatur Bee-utiful invited home | Garden & Landscape

Now it’s Decatur’s homeowners’ turn.

The Let’s Keep Decatur Bee-utiful Home Edition is open to homeowners throughout June. Similar to the business contest, contestants send in photos of the exterior of a beautifully landscaped yard to the Beautify Decatur Coalition website. Awards will be announced in July.

According to organizers Susan Avery and Jill Davis, community members had suggested a residential contest. This year was their first attempt at the Home Edition.

“In the past, we worked with businesses,” Davis said. “We’ve encouraged businesses to spruce up, sweep up, pick up litter, add some color or impact.”

Homeowners are encouraged to do the same with their property. “Again, we are looking for that wow factor,” Davis said. “Whatever makes a home look attractive from the street, that’s what we’re looking for. But it doesn’t have to be big or expensive.”

Entries can be submitted by the owner or by a fan of the home. Photos of entries will be posted on the Beautify Decatur Facebook page. No address will be published.

Judges, made up of Beautify Decatur Coalition board members, will award first, second and third prizes. First place is a gift certificate to Lowe’s and a wheelbarrow filled with gardening supplies. Second place is a gift certificate from Connie’s Country Greenhouse. Third place is a gift certificate from Cedar Lake Gardens and Gifts/Walkers Landscape.

“Speed Lube is sponsoring this contest,” Avery said.