South Country School District gets its garden on

After my neighbor planted Knockout roses several years ago, I bought several myself, and after mine were planted, another neighbor planted three of her own. Last fall, the house directly across from hers suddenly was sporting Knockouts. Don't you just love it when something like curb appeal becomes contagious?

South Country School District residents in Bellport know exactly what I mean. The Bellport Garden Club is launching its 4th annual Street Garden Program to recognize -- and to encourage, I would imagine -- homeowners there who create and maintain a street garden. Last year, more than 125 residents participated.

Interested in joining a little friendly competition? Here's what you need to know:

The club defines a street garden as “a large or small garden planted close to the curb primarily for the pleasure of neighbors or passers by.” Here are the rules: "Gardens can be established or new, plain or fancy. The gardens must consist of live plants or shrubs and must be maintained throughout the summer. On June 24 and 25, official garden plaques will be distributed to the first 125 participants and photographs will be taken and posted on Bellport.com."

Complete an entry form online at Bellport.com or request one be mailed to you by calling 631-286-9105. Entries must be received by June 1.