By Dan Murphy
of the Gardening Enthusiasts at Primus at the awards reception for the Mayor’s 29th
annual Mayor’s Garden Contest held Aug. 26 in the Public Garden.
A third-time honoree, Gardening Enthusiasts at Primus, ranked among the recipients on Beacon Hill in the 29th annual Mayor’s Garden Contest, taking second place this year in the category of Community Garden for a Storefront, Organization, or Main Street District.
Gardening Enthusiasts at Primus was previously awarded the top prize in the Storefront, Organization, or Main Street District category twice before – in the 27th annual Mayor’s Garden Contest in 2023 and again in last year’s 28th annual Mayor’s Garden Contest. Brenda Chamberlain, a member of the group, told this reporter “how proud the gardeners were to be recognized again” in the annual contest. “There were a few obstacles to overcome this spring and summer-the lack of rain forced us to do a lot of hand-watering and the resident rabbits wreaked havoc on many of the plants,” added Chamberlain. Gardeners who have won three or more times in the last 10 years, like Gardening Enthusiasts at Primus, are automatically entered into the Garden Contest Hall of Fame; they are no longer eligible to enter as contestants but are invited to return to the contest as judges. This year, Christa Comeau, also of Beacon Hill, took home third place in the Shade Garden category, while Paul H. Belanger of the West End was awarded second place in the Porch Balcony or Container Garden category.
“Boston’s gardeners have brought joy and beauty to our neighborhoods and communities, transforming everything from porches and balconies to storefronts into vibrant green spaces,” said Mayor Michelle Wu during a ceremony for award winners held Aug. 26 in the Public Garden.
“I am honored to celebrate all of our winners and offer a special congratulations to those receiving this year’s Golden Trowel award. It is a pleasure to celebrate your hard work.” First-place winners were awarded the coveted ‘Golden Trowel’ award from Mayor Wu and Boston Parks and Recreation while second- and third-place winners received certificates.
Meanwhile, the Mayor’s Garden Contest recognizes residents and groups each year who have “transformed their yards, balconies, rooftops, and community gardens into vibrant green spaces that enhance the beauty of the city’s neighborhoods,” according to the city.