Ellen Stubblefield of Salinas created the wonderful first-place winning landscape display at 2011 Water-Wise Landscape Design Competition at the Monterey County Fair. The creative, historically themed display featured a meandering gravel pathway that traveled through a variety of succulent plants, eventually arriving at a comfortable garden bench.

Just being edged out of the top honor, and receiving the second place award was the wonderful display of garden color presented by McShane’s Nursery and Landscape Supply of Salinas.

Third place went to Regan Biological and Horticultural Consulting of Carmel Valley for their eye-popping display of native plant color and texture entitled “A Monterey County Garden”.

Twelve beautiful, water efficient garden displays were judged in this year’s garden design competition. These garden displays are just a small part of the many fine, garden exhibits at this year’s fair.

The Water-wise Landscape Design Awards are presented each year by the Water Awareness Committee of Monterey County, Inc. Displays are judged on the use of native and drought tolerant plants, water-wise irrigation technology (such as soaker hoses, drip irrigation, weather-based timers, and rain sensors), the use of soil conditioners, ease of garden maintenance, and overall design.  Judging and award notifications are made one day preceding the Fair’s opening.

Prizes for this year’s competition are generously donated by the following companies:

• 1st Place: $100 gift certificate, donated by Ewing Irrigation Products in Monterey
• 2nd Place: $50 gift certificate, donated by McShane’s Nursery and Landscape Supply in Salinas
• 3rd Place: $25 gift certificate, donated by Martin’s Irrigation in Monterey