Fudge and jury: What the AIB judges look for when they visit every city that enters the contest

摘要

America in Bloom judges review and evaluate each community in six categories to determine the winners. Here's what they look for.Floral displays. Flower beds, containers, baskets, window boxes. Arrangement, originality, distribution, location, diversity, balance, harmony, maintenance quality. Use and integration of annuals, perennials, ornamental grasses, bulbs and seasonal flowers.Landscaped areas. Overall designand suitability of landscape, turf and ground covers. Native plants use. Overall design and suitability for location use; good use of design principles (balance of plant material and constructed elements, harmony, color, texture, shape, etc.). Sustainability. Integration of hardscapes, lighting, site features, sculpture. Maintenance (weeds, mulching practices, edging); site rejuvenation and rehabilitation. Strategic planning efforts. Community, children's and public gardens and zoos.