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FLOWER SHOW, ANYONE?

 

The number of flower shows has decreased significantly in the last few years. Is it due to an aging membership?, lack of funds? or what is affecting also many other organizations: nobody wants to be in charge!

It is regrettable as a flower show can be great fun! It brings members together, offers a chance to exhibit an especially beautiful horticulture specimen, provides a creative outlet for members who like to “play” with flowers, and, if open to the public, showcases all the talents our garden club members have.

If the membership has declined and putting on a Standard Flower Show is not practical, a Small-Standard Flower Show could be considered: 5 horticulture classes (at least 20 exhibits overall) and 3 design classes, 4 entries in each class, or 12 entries overall. Special Exhibits are encouraged but not required. The show can be put on by one or more clubs, in a home or homes or any other suitable facility, with very few committee members. If schedule writing is a concern, this chairman can be contacted and will help the club prepare the schedule and answer any other questions.

To quote the Handbook for Flower Shows,

“The flower show is the garden club tournament! Growing and designing are followed by a desire to exhibit one’s best efforts in competition with others. As in any other area, competition results in higher and higher levels of expertise, as exhibitors and visitors alike learn from each other and from the ribbons placed. The flower show is a stage production featuring fresh plant materials as the stars of the cast!”

 

 Try it, you will like it!

                                                                      Danielle B. Bills
                                                         Flower Show Schools Chairman