SNWA Landscape Awards Judging

The SNWA Landscape Awards judging panel is comprised of landscape and irrigation professionals, horticulturists and gardening experts. The panel judges each entry based on the following criteria:

Judging Criteria

1. Aesthetics - 50 percent
   Eye appeal is the focal point of aesthetics. Judges will evaluate plant groupings, texture combinations, grading, contouring and the use of hardscapes to enhance the overall look of the landscape. Maintenance practices must show proper pruning and staking techniques, along with the use of appropriate weed, insect and disease control.
    
2. Irrigation System - 25 percent
   Judges are looking for an irrigation system that is properly designed and installed. Spray irrigation should be used only in turf areas and proper drip irrigation used for plants.
    
3. Plant Selection - 20 percent
   Plant selection must be appropriate for the function and style of the landscape.
    
4. Mulches - 5 percent
   Mulches should be applied to a sufficient depth to reduce water loss.