142 Flower power

Flower power

A mass of humanity descends on the Philadelphia Flower Show each March exhibiting signs of anticipation and armed with overwhelming expectations.  

The thousands who make the annual trek are not dismayed or discouraged because the spectacle is always full of color, blooms, surprises and this year--water.

“The Wonders of Water” portrayed every type of wet wonderland for any size garden from tiny door front spaces to large water landscapes.  A man-made waterfall captivates onlookers as the water cascades down wooden steps to carry the liquid to the bottom.  Definitely, this was a most unique site.

One warning - the show is not for the meek or timid.  Every turn in every direction is filled with all types of humanity.  But this doesn’t stop even those who have frailties from enjoying the annual extravaganza.   They forge ahead using wheelchairs, walkers, and scooters of all sizes and shapes, trying not to miss any of the amazing displays.

I have learned after several visits not to start where everyone else does.  I stay in the center and meander where I see a spot that is somewhat empty.  That way I can keep my claustrophobia at bay. 

The show is like an art exhibit of mammoth proportions that you cannot absorb in one circle around the venue. It takes at least two times to soak in the detailed displays, Thoughts such as how did they get that in here when you look up at huge trees and structures that had to be transported and recreated in the large convention center room.  Some have been designed with walkways to crisscross to see even more.

The education component is evident throughout as representatives want to help you understand the reasoning behind the design and implementation.

Even though the theme was about water, one exhibit was especially dramatic – without water.  A desert landscape had been recreated with cacti of all shapes and sizes.  I really did not expect to see that in a water show, but it was a very pleasant surprise.

Another feature that caught my attention was flowers suspended on a frame with the roots exposed.  The length and width of the roots far surpassed the size of the flowers on the surface.

An outdoor wedding scene complete with a woodland cake was captivating with a pond and sprinkling water. It would take some real nature lovers to go for that setting but you never know!

It is really hard to put into words all that is available--lectures, demonstrations, vendors, book signings, competitions, and much, much more.  It would really take several days to even come close to taking advantage of all that is there.

And it has endured. The first show was held in 1829 and introduced the poinsettia to the American public.  I can only imagine what that was like since I love poinsettias.  There were a few tucked into a landscape this year that added some color to an outdoor scene.

Also, the size of the show has grown while maintaining its dominance in the world of flower shows. The Pennsylvania Horticultural Society website states that the show serves as the nation’s largest and most prestigious flower show, attracting 250,000 visitors every year. I can certainly believe that--most were there the day I went with family and friends.

The site also boasts that the International Festivals and Events Association bestowed its Grand Pinnacle on the 2015 Philadelphia Flower Show, naming it the best event in the world. I can believe that but not sure the rest of the world does.

I can certainly believe the accolades as the breathtaking scenes grab the attention of visitors and awaken the senses, including smell, sound, sight, and sometimes touch.   

Generally, there is an entrance that has everyone exclaiming and snapping photos wildly. This year a rainforest was depicted that rivals real rainforests!

If you are so inclined, put the first week of March on your calendar next year to visit the colossal show.  But be prepared – wear comfortable shoes, rest before, and you definitely will rest afterward.  My step app said we walked about three miles around the show and going to lunch.  Believe me, it is well worth it.

Frances