Let’s Hear a Cheer for the Good Old-Fashioned Flower Show

Celebrate North London’s Horticultural Society flower shows on October 19th.

As we bid farewell to another flowering season, it’s time to champion the unsung heroes of our local horticultural societies. Two decades ago, five vibrant societies brought their floral showcases directly to our neighborhoods; now, we see only three remaining. These passionate organizations create spaces for community engagement, displaying stunning blooms that symbolize the seasons: bursting spring blooms, the brightness of summer, and the rich colors of autumn.

At these annual flower shows, the delights extend beyond the magnificent floral displays. Within the competitive atmosphere lies an array of categories, including baking, pickling, and handicrafts, requiring participants to hone their skills in various crafts, much like popular television competitions. However, the charm of these local showcases differs dramatically; the sense of community shines through the friendly interactions and modest awards, favoring connections over the cutthroat elimination seen on the screen.

At the recent Autumn Show hosted by the Hampstead Garden Suburb Horticultural Society, held in the Free Church Hall on Northway, a particular sentiment resonated. Chris Page declared, “If only people understood how enjoyable it is to volunteer in local activities, our communities would thrive.” Thankfully, the future looks brighter as a new, younger cadre is stepping up to join the committee and rejuvenate the spirit of the society.

Autumn blooms contributing to local festivities.

The Autumn Show featured breathtaking dahlias and an impressive array of vegetables laid out in trugs, a clear indication of a fruitful, albeit slightly delayed, growing season. Notably, even amidst uncertainty for future events, the Grimsdyke Band provided a fitting soundtrack, lending a sense of continuity to the day.

Gardening Tips as We Transition into Autumn

As flower shows conclude, gardeners should keep a few practical tips in mind:

• Harvest Remaining Potatoes: Don’t neglect those potatoes left in the ground; they are still edible, but they should be dug up soon—before other creatures decide to make a meal of them.
• Plant Spring Bulbs: It’s time to get those spring bulbs in the ground now. Be sure to protect them from squirrels, as they may be eager to dig them up.
• Add Some Color Indoors: Brighten your home with miniature cyclamens. These delightful flowers are not only pretty, but they also last significantly longer than many other options.
• Prepare Ponds for Fall: Protect your pond by netting it to catch leaves as they fall. Let the leaves decompose naturally, creating nutrient-rich leaf mold.

Bring indoor vibrancy with these charming beauties.

In conclusion, local flower shows are about more than just gardening; they embody community spirit. It’s vital that we continue to support these societies and encourage new faces to join, ensuring that our neighborhoods remain alive with color and camaraderie for years to come. While modern competitions may dazzle with their spectacle, nothing can quite match the warmth and charm of a local flower show, where friendships bloom just as brightly as the flowers themselves.