Get Ready For The Show
A Week Before The Show:
- A checklist will save you time and headaches because this will be a busy time and you need to be organized.
- Refer to the Show Schedule and check that you will be able to fulfil the Rules and Regulations for each Class you entered.
For example: "Calendula entries must have 3 blooms."
See if you have at least 3 plants whose flowers match in size and colour.
- Round up and decorate as many containers you need for your flower arrangements keeping the theme in mind.
- Vegetables are often shown on paper plates so make sure you have a supply of them for all your entries.
- Pick up or make your EXHIBIT TAGS early if possible.
The Day Before the Show:
- Fill in your Exhibit Tags clearly and accurately with your name, membership number, Class and Section for each of your entries.
- Refer to your checklist and Exhibit Tags to figure out how many flowers and vegetables you need to pick.
- Pick your flowers mid-morning and immediately start conditioning them.
- Pick a couple of extra flowers just in case one gets damaged and needs replacing.
- While your flowers soak, gently dig up your root vegetables so they don't get damaged.
- Pick and clean the rest of your vegetable entries.
- Prepare your flower arrangement and store it in a safe, cool place overnight.
- Prepare an Emergency Kit for the show: extra pen, clipboard, scissors, paring knife, florists' wire and tape, and anything else you think you might need.
- Run down your checklist to make sure you haven't forgotten anything.
On the Day of the Show:
- Check the water levels in all your arrangements. Don't leave them too full, or they will be heavy and could spill on the way to the show.
- Pack your entries carefully for the trip to the show.
- Refer to your checklist and Exhibit Tags one last time to make sure you have all your entries.
- Don't forget to take your Show Schedule, your Emergency Kit, and your plant spritzer!
- Remember your extra conditioned flowers and vegetables in case any get damaged and have to be replaced.
- Top up your containers at the show and refill any woody plants that have "plugged" stems.
- If you have to fill in any Exhibit Tags at the show, give yourself plenty of time before the class closes, or your entry may not be judged.
- Give your plants a last light spritz with the mister and relax.
During the Show:
- Once you're all ready and your plants are on display, take the time to enjoy the rest of the entries.
- Talk to the other entrants and swap growing and presentation tips.
- This is a chance to be proud of your accomplishments, whether you win a ribbon or not.
- When it's all over, you could do an extra good deed and donate your arrangements to a local hospital or nursing home. They will appreciate your thoughtfulness as your flowers brighten up their environment.
showing
|
