The Mississippi State University (MSU) South Mississippi Branch All-America Selections (AAS) Display Garden has earned First Place in the 2024 Landscape Design Challenge. This national contest, held annually across the United States and Canada, recognizes outstanding display gardens, and the Pearl River County Master Gardeners have once again brought home a top honor for Mississippi.

The Master Gardeners were recognized for their design, planting, and ongoing maintenance of the award-winning garden. Lenore Ladner provided leadership for the project, with additional support from MSU staff members Brennan Grant, Matt Henley, and Matt Lee.

“Winning this challenge reflects the dedication and skill of the Pearl River County Master Gardeners and their commitment to the garden’s success,” said an MSU spokesperson.

The Pearl River County Master Gardeners began participating in the Landscape Design Challenge 2018, winning First Place that year. Since then, they have earned Second Place in 2021, Third Place in 2022, and have now tied for First Place in both 2023 and 2024.