For inspiration do attend some of the flower and garden shows this year. We can learn so much so these events. At the shows we can enjoy the work of cutting edge designers from around the country and participate in seminars/workshops. Here are some suggestions. With a few exceptions, most events do charge admission.


Chelsea Flower Show

Of all the flower shows, this one is the standard by which all others are judged. For those who can afford the air fare it this is a must-see. The dates for 2010 are May 24 through May 29.



Chicago Events

The Spring Flower Show at the Garfield Park Conservatory in Chicago opens on January 31 and continues through May 10th. This year over 5000 spring flowering bulbs will be on display. The first half of the show will showcase azaleas. Then come the hydrangeas.

Also in Chicago there will be the Chicago Flower and Garden Show at the Navy Pier. This is taking place from March 6th through March 11th. For details see http://chicagoflower.com.


Cleveland Home and Garden Show

This annual show will take place from January 22 through January 31. 2010 marks the 67th year for this event. Presented by The Cleveland Clinic, this will take place at the Great Lakes Expo Center in Cleveland. For details see www.homeandflower.com.


Macy’s Flower Shows

These are among the most popular of all the flower shows. They will take place at five of the Macy’s stores around the country. Locations include not only New York City but also Philadelphia, San Francisco, Minneapolis, and Chicago. The dates are April 5 through April 19. The shows are free, and include various scheduled events and seminars. The displays showcase fantastic bouquets and floral arrangements. See the website for more details (www.macys.com/flowershow).


Maymont

This year the Maymont Flower and Garden Show will be on February 18th through February 21. This year marks the 21st year this has been held. It takes place at the Greater Richmond Convention Center in Richmond, Virginia. For more details see www.maymontflowershow.com.


Northwest Show

For those living and visiting the Northwest, there’s the Northwest Flower and Garden Show from February 3rd through February 7th. It is taking place at the Washington State Convention and Trade Center in Seattle. This year’s theme is “Beauty and Functionality.” Advance tickets are available at a discount online. For details see www.gardenshow.com.


Philadelphia International Flower Show

This is one of America’s largest and best known shows. For 2010 the dates are February 27 through March 7. It will be held at the Pennsylvania Convention Center in Philadelphia. This year’s theme is “Passport to the World.” For more information, see www.theflowershow.com.