Creativity Blooms: Meet Our 2024 Street Garden Winners

Portland's Choice Winner: Upcycled Elegance in the Street Garden Project

Kerianne Burchardt, owner of Savvy Swap Consignment at 275 Main Street, won the Portland's Choice Award in the 2024 Street Garden Project. The styled mannequin that is part of the floral display is made from thrifted materials - including the skirt which was on consignment and never sold. Summer intern Marija custom-made the bodice which was adorned with fake flowers from Goodwill - all which complimented the real pink geraniums featured in the containers.

Connecticut Valley School's Garden Strikes a Chord with Judges

Connecticut Valley School of Music and Dance, at 226 Main Street, placed second in the Container Garden Category and also won Most Creative Garden Award in the 2024 Street Garden Project. Dave Kuzminski (left) and Morgan Geres (right) pose with their winning garden.

Flavorful Success: Concentric Brewing Co. Wins Big with Themed Herb Garden

Concentric Brewing Co., at 91 Main Street, placed second in the In-Ground Garden Category and also won the Best Garden Theme Award for their herb garden in the 2024 Street Garden Project. From left to right is Brian Aida, David Peichert and Chef Chris Sassi (who happens to be harvesting from the garden during the photo shoot).

Historic Anchors and Tropical Vibes: A Winning Combo in 2024 Street Garden Project

Dominic DiMauro, owner of Tropical CT (left) and Matt Pegolo, owner of PegArch Architecture and Design (right) at 236 Main Street, won first place in the Container Garden Category in the 2024 Street Garden Project. This year's design featured shorter and wider palm trees that complimented the plants situated below. 'We changed the proportions by swapping out the tall Foxtail Palms for High Plateau Coconut Palms," said Dominic. The annuals planted in the container boxes were hand chosen to thrive all summer long without being temperamental. To go with the tropical theme, Matt included authentic anchors - one that is circa 1740s/1750s and one of the 1850s - that he found while scuba diving in local waters. 

Fueled by Passion: Portland Citgo Wins Top Garden Honors

Portland Citgo, at 1633 Portland Cobalt Road, placed first in the In-Ground Garden category and received the Wow Factor Award in the 2024 Street Garden Project. From left to right is Jesse Wills, Jack Baker and Alison Baker holding Jack. The garden along the gas station has been a work in progress for 30 years. Jack said they aim to spread out the blooming plants throughout the three growing seasons.