Some Manitoba homeowners are growing for the top spot.

For the second year, Food Matters Manitoba is challenging backyard green thumbs to turn their lawns into creative displays of edible landscapes.

"To allow all Manitobans to reimagine what they can do with their green spaces, their balconies, their porches,” said competition coordinator Jaime Ilchyna.

Last year’s winners are enjoying the fruits of changing all their previous lawn space – including boulevard greens – into garden patches bursting with plants.

“We grow lots of plants for tea, lots of vegetables, lots of flowers for the insects, we try and grow plants for more than one use,” Michael Thys said.

Entries are judged on plant health, artistry, use of space and sustainability in four categories: rural, urban, under 18 or newbie.

The contest is open to all Manitobans and gardens of all sizes.

Gardens can be entered now, until Aug. 8. For details and to register, visit: www.manitobagarden.com.