If you haven't been to a daffodil show, it can be a confusing experience, but it doesn't have to be. Let's talk about how to make that first daffodil show an enjoyable one. To do this you must start before the show date arrives.
Find a point of contact with the daffodil show and obtain a Show Program. If you can't get a Show Program, find a point of contact to determine when exhibits can be received. (Show programs will be available at the exhibition hall when you sign in.) Read the rules and note the dates and times as listed on the Program for recieving daffodils from the exhibitors - that will be you. This will be earlier then the times posted for "open to visitors." Usually, the exibitors will set up their flowers the afternoon/evening before, and/or the early morning of the show.
Preparation. In preparation for the show, there are a few items that you should collect and bring from home with you. First is a listing of your daffodils, along with name labels, entry cards if you have them, a pen for writing labels, a knife for trimming the stems, and a cooking baster for filling up the test tubes with water after the flowers have been inserted. Other items like a "Daffodils to Show and Grow," writing tablets, a show program, a towel to clean up water, and an apron are invaluable. Most keep a "Daffodil Box" with all the necessary supplies contained within. I keep a supply in a soft pack type briefcase, with carrying strap, that always accompanies me to the shows.
When you arrive at the show location, there will be three things that you will need to locate: a "registration" booth for exhibitors which is usually in a convenient place; second will be the "set-up" rooms for the exhibitors to use to stage their flowers, and; third, and last will be the exhibition hall were the flowers will be displayed for judging and public viewing.
The registration booth will be manned by a person that will have you sign in, and give you a Show Program if you need it. This person will direct you to a work area, and where supplies are available to label and classify your daffodils. Usually an American Daffodil Society daffodil database will be available to look up questionable flowers to obtain the correct spelling, names and color codes.
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