Maitland Mayor Loretta Baker was on hand along with AVID Property Group's Community Development Officer Olivia Power to officially kick-start the competition in a ribbon cutting ceremony at the Waterford Kitchen Garden on Saturday.

The competition is open to all Waterford and Harvest residents and will be judged by a panel of celebrity adjudicators, including Cr Baker, Scott Sharpe of the City Gardener Radio Show and Sharpe's Nursery, as well as Matthew Durning from RPS Landscaping.

Winners will be judged across four categories, with a $1000 travel voucher up for grabs. Categories include:

1. Grand Champion - for best overall garden. Prize: $1000 travel voucher from Green Hills Travel Centre.

2. Lawn Champion - for best lawn. Prize: $500 Bunnings Warehouse voucher.

3. Miracle Worker - for most improved garden. Prize: $500 Bunnings Warehouse voucher.

4. Little Green Thumb - best gardener under 13 years. Prize: Worm Farm valued at $100.

"We are looking forward to launching the competition and recognising the green thumbs that live among us," AVID NSW Project Director Nathan Huon said. "The event is designed to celebrate the beautiful gardens in our communities and inspire creativity.

"Getting out in the garden is great for physical and mental health."

The winners will be named on Sunday, December 1.