NGC through its Flower Show Schools program provides excellent opportunities for study of horticulture and floral design. Any interested person, garden club member or non-member, may attend these schools by registering and paying the nominal fee.
The horticulture curriculum consists of basic general information on proper gardening techniques from seed/plant selection to plant culture and control of problems. Information is also presented on cultural needs of specific perennials, annuals, trees and shrubs, as well as fruits, vegetables and nuts and how to grow superior container plants.
Design instruction covers traditional floral arrangements through contemporary styles and even designs incorporating lights and motors. Many attendees are particularly interested in table setting designs showing coordination of floral centerpiece, linens and dishes. Vignettes, small segments of rooms, also give ideas on interior decorating.
While the primary purpose of these courses is to train those wishing to become flower show judges, many people attend for information only and those people do not have to take the examinations!
If you think you might be interested start by volunteering at a Flower Show. Becoming a Flower Show Judge is exciting, rewarding and educational. Contact the Flower Show Schools Chairman for more information. Print out your Flower Show Handbook and place in a 3 ring binder. National Garden Club and Florida Federation of Garden Clubs have flower show schools posted on their webpages. If District 1 is hosting it will be listed as an event.
Download the latest version of the Flower Show Handbook Rev. July 2023, Check National Garden Club website to verify this link is the latest version.