How can I convince you to pick your garden daffodils and put them into a show? Together, we can find a way. Excuses are always given like, I don't know how to show the flowers. I can't do that. Those people are professionals. My flowers will look sick next to theirs. I don't know where the shows are located. What flowers can I enter?
The answer to all those questions is that, 'it's so simple, anyone can do it'. The hardest part is doing something that is not 'familiar.' Let me help you by answering those questions.
Q. 'I don't know how to show the flowers.' "A." Any daffodil you have in the garden is potential for the show bench. Daffodil shows are for 'cut' flowers. Cut your flowers, put them in water and take them to the show. There are categories for historic daffodils, miniatures, intermediates, 'oldies that I don't know the name,' and small growers, in addition to the open competition. My bet is that if you enter five flowers, with no previous experience as an exhibitor, you will win a ribbon, maybe two or three ribbons.
Q. 'I can't do that.' "A." All entries are customarily entered before the show is open to the public. When you walk into the show area, find the sign in desk and sign in. You will be greeted by warm smiles and friendly people. There's always an experienced person there that can help you stage your flowers and place them into the show. That's their show function.
Q. 'Those people are professionals. My flowers will look sick next to theirs.' "A." Most of the exhibitors are like you, they took it upon themselves to attend, put some flowers in the show and enjoyed meeting new people, and become excited about the displays. All of us, regular exhibitors, raise the daffodils in our gardens, as green house daffodils are not allowed. There are a couple of professional daffodil growers and hybridizers, however, most are hobbyists that work full time in another career, myself included. Most of all, you'll meet new friends and have a great time doing it. As time goes along, your exhibitor skills will improve. When it is offered, attend 'mini' seminars on grooming and show bench skills for exhibitors that are periodically offered by the daffodil societies in your area. These seminars will shorten the learning curve.
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