Avid gardeners are proving just how hardy some plants can be in Central’s harsh climate.

A competition to celebrate those gardeners and their gardens filled with plants that love dry conditions was hosted by the Central Otago District Council (CODC) over the summer months and the results are in.

The winners are Bruce Hall for established rural garden category, Gavin and Cathy Dann for established urban garden, Vicki Hishon for new rural garden, Ann Paterson for new urban garden, Phanny Thomas for specialty garden and Tracey Grose for tiny garden design.

CODC water services support Julie Clarke said the aim of the competition was to create public education around water conservation.

“Outdoor water use accounts for the largest proportion of household consumption over summer,” she said.

“Encouraging people to save water in their gardens helps CODC manage demand for our drinking water. The competition showcases beautiful ‘dry’ gardens to demonstrate that we can have our cake and eat it too when it comes to having a gorgeous garden.”

A garden with a view was among those that were entered in the competition. PHOTO: Supplied

The competition was judged by Shona Wallace and Sue Mort.

Julie said of the 13 entries, there was a lot of variety of gardens, which prompted organisers to create some extra categories.

“It was encouraging to see people new to gardening having a go and being creative.”

She said of the several entries that did not win, it was “not for lack of enthusiasm”.

Entrants were celebrated with a prize giving at the CODC last Thursday.