Floral triumphs at the fair: Strategies for blossoming success in the competition
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For those looking to impress at county fairs with their floral entries, following a few key tips can help ensure success. This guide, synthesized from the San Diego County Fair Flower Show and general best practices, offers insights on everything from flower selection to transportation methods.
Flower Selection
Choosing fresh, healthy blooms is crucial. Opt for varieties that suit the specific class or category of the competition, and consider those that last and look their best on show day.
Vase Cleaning
A clean, simple container that complements your flowers is essential. Thoroughly wash the vase to remove any residue, ensuring it is spotless. Clean containers make a strong impression on judges.
Design Principles
Adhere to principles such as balance, proportion, color harmony, and focal points in floral design. Aim for an artistic presentation that highlights the flowers’ natural beauty.
Transport Methods
Transport flowers carefully to avoid damage. Place stems in water or floral tubes if possible to keep them hydrated. Use sturdy containers and pack flowers to minimize movement and bruising during transit to the fair.
Some county fairs provide green vases and volunteer assistance with setting up entries, which can be helpful.
Additional Details
- Keep windows closed during transportation to avoid wind damage.
- Each vase should have some water removed to prevent spills during transportation.
Professionalism and Care
Professionalism in presentation and care from cutting to showing greatly improves the chances of winning ribbons or awards.
These tips are based on information from the San Diego County Fair Flower Show, the University of Minnesota Extension, and the Columbia Basin Herald. Whether aiming for a specific color or simply enjoying the process, show off those blooms and have fun doing it.
This article is featured in Yard and Garden News, and the author, Robin Trott, is a University of Minnesota Extension Educator in Douglas County. For more information or questions, you can contact Robin at [email protected].
- When showcasing flowers at county fairs or home-and-garden competitions, it's important to consider the lifestyle of your plants by choosing fresh, healthy blooms that suit the specific class or category of the competition.
- In addition to nurturing your plants and adhering to design principles, taking care in the selection and transportation of your flowers, such as keeping windows closed during transportation to avoid wind damage and placing stems in water or floral tubes to keep them hydrated, is essential to gardening success and will greatly enhance your chances of winning ribbons or awards.
