A Love Letter to Local Flower Shows: Celebrate Autumn’s Splendor

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Let’s Celebrate the Timeless Charm of Local Flower Shows

As autumn descends upon us, I can’t help but reflect on the beauty and joy that horticultural societies bring to our communities, especially at this time of year. On October 19th, the North London Horticultural Society will host its flower show, an event I look forward to every year. After all, what could be more enchanting than witnessing the artistry of our local gardeners?

Admiring the local blooms at the annual flower show.

Twenty years ago, five horticultural societies were bustling with activity, showcasing their floral bounty. Today, only three remain, and I find this a poignant reminder of the need to support and breathe new life into these cherished events. The allure of flower shows goes beyond simple competition; it’s about community and the shared passion for gardening that informs our neighborhoods.
These shows invite us to revel in the seasonal splendor, not to mention the delightful classes that bring baking, pickling, and handicrafts into the mix. It’s like watching a beloved TV series unfold, but without the drama and with an abundance of camaraderie.

Local shows offer a refreshing contrast to those glitzy, nationwide contests. Here, there’s no ruthless competition; instead, we celebrate modest accomplishments, cherished silver cups, and the satisfaction of labor well done. Yet, as we toast the enduring spirit of these events, I can’t shake the concern that they may fade away if new members don’t step up to revive these institutions.

The Importance of Volunteering

During the Hampstead Garden Suburb Horticultural Society’s Autumn Show, I’ve seen firsthand how community involvement creates a vibrant atmosphere. Chris Page, a longtime member, once remarked how volunteering enriches life in ways we often overlook. Fortunately, the winds of change are blowing, as he suggested; a younger cohort is joining the ranks. This transition is essential, offering innovative ideas and energy needed to sustain our gardening legacies.

Stunning dahlias on display at a local show, showcasing the best of the season.

At the recent show, I delighted in the sight of glorious dahlias and bountiful vegetables, overflowing from trugs that told tales of a great growing season, despite some perceived delays. It felt fitting that a local band played on, echoing the resilience of the gardening community as they stitched together the fabric of neighborhood life.

Just a fortnight later, I found myself at the Muswell Hill Horticultural Society’s Show, where the variety of flora stole the spotlight. The show was awash with sunflowers, hydrangeas, and an impressive assortment of seedheads, including a stunning arrangement by Suzy Marshall that won First Prize for Mixed Flowers, brilliantly highlighted by the late September sunlight. The sheer size and vibrancy of the dahlia named Labyrinth captivated all who laid eyes upon it. It’s experiences like these that reinforce my passion for gardening, reminding me how rewarding it is to see creativity bloom.

What You Can Do This Season

As our gardens transition, I want to encourage fellow gardening enthusiasts to make the most of this season. Here are a few tips to consider:

Harvest those potatoes! If you’ve left them in the ground, they’re still edible, but don’t wait too long; we’re not the only ones who enjoy a good meal.
Keep planting spring bulbs to ensure a colorful comeback next year. Just remember, squirrels have their eyes on these too, so protective measures are a must.
Add colorful plants to your windowsills—miniature cyclamens are durable and beautiful choices that can brighten any space.
If you have a pond, net it to catch any falling leaves. Once they’ve captured those leaves, let them decompose into leaf mold for great compost!

The beauty of autumn flowers adds warmth to chilly evenings.

As I write this in mid-October, the cold nights have begun to creep in, signaling the turn of the gardening year. The final shows are wrapping up, and my heart swells with gratitude for the communities that foster these gatherings. The future of flower shows is an ever-evolving story, one I’m eager to see continue. Now, more than ever, let us cherish what these horticultural societies mean to us—and perhaps, in our quest for pickling perfection, we should also pick up a shovel and dig into our local gardening clubs. A personal connection to our food source and community is vital. As the gardening year winds down, it’s time to appreciate not just the flowers, but the shared moments of joy they bring to all of us.

Let’s nurture our gardens together, and perhaps raise a glass of home-pickled delights in honor of our beloved local flower shows.