It may still be snowing in some necks of our woods, but a hint of spring is in the air as flower, home and garden shows take center stage across the US and Canada. So slip into your walking shoes, charge up the battery in your digital camera and get ready to see the best in horticulture!
Flower shows captivate young and old with playhouses, beautiful flowers and water features.
Photo Credit: Donna W. Moramarco
You can expect big displays and landscape features at many of the larger shows.
Photo Credit: Donna W. Moramarco
Some garden clubs compete against each other for “Best In Show” in various planting competitions.
Photo Credit: Donna W. Moramarco
The countless blooms and bursts of color that garden shows offer can tickle your imagination pink!
Photo Credit: Mark A. Miller
For years I’ve made the trek from my home on Long Island to the incredible Philadelphia Flower Show, considered by many to be the “Granddaddy” of flower shows in North America. Believe me, it is so worth the trip! But I’m a flower show junkie, so I look for other shows that are a “reasonable drive,” then off I go. Needless to say, I’ve learned a trick or two about attending flower shows over the years, so let me offer a few tips to make your show visits more enjoyable:
- Buy advanced-sale tickets so you don’t have to wait in line when you get there.
- Some flower shows have “early opening” days, giving you a chance to check out the show before the crowds arrive. Even if you’re charged a little more for this early-bird opportunity, it’s worth it – especially if you’re interested in taking lots of pictures.
- If the show is open at night, consider going during the dinner hour after many bus tours have left, taking the crowds with them.
- Always wear comfortable shoes with good support! (Hey, it’s a flower show – not a fashion show.)
- Take advantage of the coat check and part with the outdoor wear. But do bring a sweater – most flower show venues are kept cool for the plants.
- Bring extra film or another memory card, as well as spare batteries. (It’ll save you time and money should you have a camera emergency when at the show!)
- Avoid big, clunky pocketbooks or bags. (They’ll just get in the way.)
- If you buy any plants early in the day, be sure you have a place to store them, or you’ll be lugging them through the crowds. (My last stop before the exit door is the plant sale areas.)
Ready to go? Here’s a list of some flower, home and garden shows nationwide over the next few months. Visit the shows’ Websites for additional information, including show hours, location, ticket sales, etc. And most of all, get ready to be inspired – spring is right around the corner!
