The competition has been expanded with two additional categories for schools. As well as the usual school gardens category, there is a heaviest marrow title up for grabs and commendation for school vegetable plots.

School gardens are those created and maintained by students and can be any size.

All schools are encouraged to grow a marrow and produce it to be weighed at the school ceremony in July. Seeds can be supplied by organisers.

The school vegetable plot category is an excellent way to get students to grow veg and learn about healthy eating. Judges will be looking for a well-maintained plot, with healthy plants.

Linda Mulley, head of Belvedere Infants and Nursery School, which took part last year, said: "The garden club and nursery class all enjoyed planting and caring for plants and were enthusiastic about learning about them and watching seeds grow."

Every participating school will get an award gold, silver gilt, silver or bronze and a constructive report on how to get a better mark next year. Using sustainable gardening techniques could win schools extra points.

The closing date for school entries is Friday, May 25.