Since the opening of the first Philadelphia Flower Show in 1829, when the poinsettia made its debut to the United States, the world has repeatedly been
awed by the annual exhibition of colorful displays, blooming new cultivars, rare and exotic plants, beautiful works of art, and a myriad of other breathtaking venues. This year, the show’s theme was “Celebrate the Movies,” and landscaping artists outdid themselves in creating stunning floral representations of some of the world’s most beloved movie scenes and characters. Young and old alike were captivated by the complex flower garden designs and elaborate fairy tale transformation of the Pennsylvania Convention Center.
The goal of this year’s show was to give all guests a taste of the red-carpet treatment, replicating interior designs of posh movie premieres from years gone by, and seeking to overwhelm every sense with rich garden tapestries and luxurious surroundings enjoyed by the talented, the rich and the famous.
But for those who wanted to escape the limelight and retreat for a little while into dreams of creating their own splendid gardens and enchanting yard projects, the Gardener’s Studio was the place to be! Both informative and interactive, the Gardener’s Studio provided the perfect opportunity to glean valuable nuggets of information from prestigious gardening, landscaping and green living artists. The presentations were fun and educational, and numerous spectators were recipients of plant cuttings and exciting giveaway prizes. The green thumb enthusiast would have found the schedule of diverse gardening and do-it-yourself projects a quite a resource. Topics covered in these workshops included organic and restricted-space gardening tips, gardening on a budget, butterfly and wildlife gardens, new flower garden designs, water conservation and recycling advice, beneficial insects, medicinal herbs and healthful plants, miniature gardens, as well as many other amazing related subjects – all designed to inspire and entice both novice and experienced gardeners alike to even greater levels of growing achievement.
At noon every day was the popular “Container Garden Challenge,” hosted by professional designer, Sam Harris. This good-natured contest highlighted three different designers, who had to compete in the creation of an original container design from a restricted plant repertoire. Upon completion, the audience would then vote for their favorite container arrangement. Lots of cheering and good, clean fun accompanied this daily challenge, and observers went away with some great ideas to implement in their own yards and gardens.
Whether it was for an astounding experience of the magnificent displays that are the hallmark of the Philadelphia Flower Show, merely an escape from the clutches of winter in anticipation of a soon-coming spring season, or gleaning flower garden designs or other information to improve one’s own gardening expertise, the show was sure to impress and inspire! What delights of nature would you love to see taking up residence in your garden?
Main Line landscape design, installation and maintenance company Aardweg Landscaping of Newtown Square, PA was recently 
recognized with the “Best Of Houzz” 2015 award for Customer Satisfaction by Houzz. As a full-service landscape company, Aardweg Landscaping has the design expertise, plant knowledge, and quality workmanship necessary to establish and maintain a reputation for superior customer service. To schedule a complimentary on-site consultation, call Aardweg Landscaping at 610-355-0703, or send an email using the website Contact form.