Let’s Celebrate the Timeless Charm of Local Flower Shows
As autumn paints the landscape with its rich palette, it’s time to revel in the seasonal splendor of flower shows. The Hampstead Garden Suburb Horticultural Society, for example, is set to host its delightful Autumn Show on October 19th in the quaint Free Church Hall on Northway. Flower shows are more than just community events; they are the lifeblood of our local horticultural societies, which, despite dwindling numbers, continue to showcase the hard work and creativity of local gardeners.
Twenty years ago, five horticultural societies thrived in North London, but today, only three remain. It’s a bittersweet reminder that the passion for gardening and community crafting is still vibrant, yet it needs nurturing to survive.
I remember my first flower show. Caught in the lively buzz and competitive spirit, I was enchanted by the mingling of fresh produce and vibrant blooms. The generosity of spirit in these local gatherings is unmatched. Instead of the glitzy reality TV-style competitions we see today, local shows are punctuated by friendly faces and humble silver cups that denote hard work rather than celebrity. As Chris Page, a member of the Hampstead Garden Suburb Society, noted, “If only people knew how engaging it is to volunteer in the running of neighbourly activities, life would be better.”
Enthusiastic displays at local flower shows showcase the heart of community gardening.
Notably, at Hampstead this year, despite a somewhat delayed growing season, stunning dahlias and lush vegetables brought a festive atmosphere that cannot be replicated in a commercial event. And as the Grimsdyke Band played on, the sound of cheer seemed to echo the sentiments shared among the attendees—these events are treasures that deserve celebration.
In another delightful occurrence, the Muswell Hill Horticultural Society held its show two weeks later, adorned with sunflowers and hydrangeas that captured the essence of autumn. Filled with arrangements that embodied the phrase “Mellow Fruitfulness,” like the Earthwalker sunflower and vibrant Turk’s Turban squash, this event reflected the beauty and diversity found in local gardens. Participating in these shows has not only filled my weekends with joy but also cemented lasting friendships forged over shared gardening experiences.
At the Highgate show on September 29th, which I attended, the atmosphere shifted as frost began to kiss the garden beds. There, the subtle tones of the season were a reminder that while summer flowers retreat, the garden’s beauty remains in its slow evolution. Perhaps that slow change is what gardening is all about: resilience, patience, and community.
Tips for Autumn Gardening
- Harvest What’s Left: If you have potatoes still peeking from the soil, don’t forget to dig them up. Nature isn’t the only one keen to savor them.
- Plant for Spring: As you gaze into the fading garden, remember to plant your spring bulbs. Protect them from curious squirrels as they rummage for snacks.
- Add Color to Your Home: Brighten up your window sills with delightful miniature cyclamens, which not only add color but also offer longevity through the chill.
- Protect Your Ponds: Now is the time to net your ponds to capture those falling leaves. The decomposed leaves will eventually turn into rich leaf mold, a gardener’s gold.
This is the magic of flower shows: a convergence of horticultural talent, community spirit, and a caring reminder to preserve the old ways of gardening. As we approach the end of the season, let’s cherish these communal gatherings and encourage a new generation to dive into the wonderful world of gardening. Without fresh hands and enthusiastic hearts, you might just miss out on the transformative experience these societies offer. Let’s keep these traditions alive, ensuring that next year, there are still vibrant flower shows for generations to come.
