Great gardens are about to be distinguished from the average ones, as the Grimsby Garden Club begins its annual Trillium Awards program.

Judges will be covering the Town of Grimsby until the end of July.

With the help of some new sponsors, including the Town of Grimsby, ReMax sales rep Zoi Ouzas and Royal LePage Niagara Real Estate Centre, club President Susan Gemmill said the club will be handing out more Trillium awards this year than in the past.

"We're very appreciative of the support of our sponsors," she said.

Judges look at everything from curb appeal to colour and maintenance. New this year will be points for saving the environment, focusing on environmentally-friendly measures in the garden.

This year a Green Trillium will be handed out for Most Improved gardens, including most improved overall, most improved from "builder bare" and most improved existing garden. A "before" photo is required to be eligible. Nominations must be submitted by July 15 by calling Gemmill at 905-309-3110. New this year will be yellow trilliums, awarded to properties winning a white trillium for the fifth consecutive year. Winners will be notified by Aug. 10. Awards will be handed out Monday, Sept. 29.

For more information, call Gemmill at 905-309-3110.