Keen gardeners of all standards are being encouraged to show pride in their handiwork by entering the biennial Kiama Garden Club Inc Garden Competition.

Entries are now being taken in the following categories: best garden over half an acre; best garden under half an acre; best front garden with rose feature; best native garden (to be at least 70 per cent); best rainforest/fern glade garden (waterwise); best balcony garden; best vegetable garden.

Helen Curll, wife of co-ordinator Robert Curll, who is renowned for his roses and dahlias, said they had good sponsorship and were hoping for strong numbers this year.

"We'd love more entries. We really do have the most beautiful gardens here," she said.

Fellow garden club member Ro Parkinson said the main prerequisite for entering the competition was enjoyment.

"The competition is really just for people who enjoy their gardening - they are the ones we want to encourage."

Esmay and Len Foster first entered the competition in 2008, picking up a highly commended. They have won a category on three other occasions.

Since that first year, the native garden at the rear of the couple's home has become an evolving, living work of art.

The Fosters moved into their historic 1876 home, Kaleula, 14 years ago and have completely transformed a back section of land. The area previously overgrown with lantana and plumbago now features paths and steps and points of interest, such as seats and ornaments.

Mrs Foster said she and Len worked in the garden most days and spent a lot of time there relaxing and watching the abundant birdlife which has included wattle birds, a boobook owl and blue wrens.

She said she had not been much of a gardener until she retired.

"A garden is a lovely place to find peace," she said.

While other parts of the property have introduced plants, Mrs Foster said the back garden was dedicated to natives. She offered some advice to novices.

"They always say the most important thing to do in starting a garden is to get the soil right. Feed your garden with nutritious compost before you even put one plant in," she said.

"Also plant what is going to suit the area. I read a lot of books and have learned from my mistakes."

Mrs Foster said many people humbly thought their gardens weren't worthy but she urged them to become involved.

Entries close on February 27. Phone Robert Curll on 4236 0158 or email robertcurll@bigpond.com.

Judging will be conducted in the first week of March. Winners will be announced at the Garden Club's March meeting on March 27.

The Kiama Garden Club meets on the fourth Friday of the month. They have guest speakers and bus trips.