Spring Flower Shows

Mike Dana, Extension Horticulture Specialist, Department of Horticulture & Landscape Architecture, Purdue University

March through May are the months of Spring Flower Shows such as the Indiana Flower and Patio Show.  Many US cities take great pride in their horticultural displays.  But the best is still to be found in London.  The Royal Horticultural Society’s Chelsea Flower Show in late May continues to set the international standard for horticultural quality.

These images illustrate the range of gardens and individual plant displays which are so abundant at Chelsea.  Some of the most innovative as well as classical garden design is on display.

Click image to enlarge

The Clematis display looks like it has been growing in its corner for years, but its only been installed for a few days.  The crowds are lareg at Chelsea, but the wait is worth it!

Hybrid lupines make a rainbow of color.

Chrysanthemums of every form and color.

You’ve probably never seen hens-and-chicks like this before.

Cacti are interesting even when not in bloom, but oh what colors when they are!

A small entrance garden typifies traditional “cottage” planting.

A garden as sculpture. Amazing!

A minimalist, Japanese-inspired contemporary garden of water and Equisetum (horsetails).