Let’s Celebrate the Beauty of the Old-Fashioned Flower Show

As autumn casts its golden hues across the gardens of north London, it’s time to reflect on the charm and dedication that fuel the local horticultural societies. This October, as the leaves turn and the seasons change, we pay tribute to the flower shows that have become a staple of our community lives and a testament to the passion for gardening and pickling.

Flower shows bring communities together in celebration of nature’s bounty.

A Decline in Tradition

Two decades ago, five horticultural societies persisted in staging vibrant flower shows around the area that we now know as Ham & High. Fast forward to today, where only three remain. The shift is notable — sparked in part by the societal changes that have made volunteering less visible and appealing. As we close another growing season, we must commend the unsung heroes working tirelessly to maintain these cherished traditions.

These events, marked by their splendid displays of spring, summer, and autumn blossoms, offer not just a sensory experience but also an enriching community experience. Classes on baking, pickling, and various handicrafts participate in these shows, echoing the spirited contests found in popular television formats yet retaining a homelier feel. Their essence, however, is under threat if fresh blood does not invigorate the committees with new energy and creativity.

The Importance of Community Involvement

At the recent Autumn Show hosted by the Hampstead Garden Suburb Horticultural Society, an inspiring scene unfolded. Chris Page, a dedicated member, noted, “If only more people knew how rewarding it is to engage in neighborhood activities, life would take on a new brightness.” Fortunately, the horizon looks promising; a youthful group is poised to rejuvenate the committee and breathe new life into the gatherings.

As guests wandered through the show, the sight of vibrant dahlias and bountiful vegetables reminded us of the resilient growing season, almost belated but mighty. The Grimsdyke Band played gently in the background, a musical metaphor for the complex feelings surrounding the future of these beloved local activities.

Dahlias are among the showstoppers of the season’s showcases.

A Flourishing Display of Flowers

Just a fortnight later at the Muswell Hill Horticultural Society’s Show, nature showcased its grandeur through sunflowers, hydrangeas, and an astonishing assortment of seedheads. Suzy Marshall’s award-winning vase of mixed flowers radiated beauty, perfectly illuminated by the amber September sunlight. The essence of autumn was strong, mirrored by Gary Sycamore’s prize-winning arrangement titled “Mellow Fruitfulness,” which whimsically featured sunflowers, hops, apples, and even Turk’s Turban squash.

On Sunday, the Highgate Horticultural Society also hosted its show, offering attendees yet another splendid opportunity to revel in the community’s floral talent. The varieties of Michaelmas daisies, rudbeckias, and helianthus gleamed proudly, creating an enchanting atmosphere that celebrated nature’s perseverance and beauty.

Embracing Seasonal Gardening Tasks

With mid-October upon us, as frosty nights start to set in, it’s essential to embrace a few gardening tasks to segue smoothly into the next phase of the gardening year:

• Harvest Remaining Potatoes: Potatoes left in the ground should still be good; however, gather them soon as they may succumb to other foragers.
• Spring Bulbs: Continue planting your spring bulbs now. Just remember to guard them against the nibbling of squirrels eager for an early feast.
• Add Color Indoors: Display delightful miniature cyclamens on window sills to maintain a touch of color within your home.
• Prepare Ponds: Net your ponds to collect falling leaves, allowing them to decompose into leaf mold, ultimately nourishing your garden as the winter winds sweep in.

Prepare your garden for the upcoming seasons with essential tasks.

As we approach the end of this year’s growing cycle, let’s honor the efforts, camaraderie, and craftsmanship that local flower shows symbolize. They not only showcase the beauty of floral arrangements and produce but also foster a sense of belonging, old friendships, and new connections. In a world where everything evolves so rapidly, the simplicity offered by these shows remains a precious link to our community’s roots.

Let’s raise a glass to the gardeners, volunteers, and families who keep the spirit of these flower shows alive, ensuring they continue to enchant and engage us for many seasons to come!

For more information on local gardening events and ways to get involved, check out our events page.