"Gardens of Zen and Now" was the theme for the 25th Annual Connecticut Flower and Garden Show, held at the Connecticut Expo Center in Hartford, February 23-26.

The landscape displays, as one might expect, all had an oriental flavor.  Shown at left is the best display in the show, by Hillside Landscaping, of Berlin, CT, with their interpretation of a Japanese garden.

The highlight of the show, as was the case last year, were the wonderful design entries in the Federated Garden Clubs of Connecticut show, with the theme "Weather Predictions".  Though we're only showing a few of those that happened to "catch our eye", there were many more that were at least creative and, at most, spectacular. 

Shown at far left is an interpretation of "Let it Snow", by Jackie Haddock.

In the middle, is "Sunset Over Maui", by Charlotte Bisson.

At right is "Lightning Strikes", by Terry Stoleson.

Each of these were blue-ribbon winners as the best in their class.  A number of other worthy entries are not pictured.
 

Two more wonderful entries are shown at left.  At far left is "Tornado Watch", a hanging design staged within a 60"x30" frame.  The exhibitor was Anne Harrington. 

At center is the Best Design in Show, by Sherry Janelli, with her interpretation of "St. Patrick's Day Parade".  This is a miniature design, staged in front of a 12" backboard.  We agree with the judge's decision--just fabulous!

At near left is another entry in "Lightning Strikes".
 

There were a few notable exhibits in the horticultural division of the show, too.  Shown at near right is a very well grown plant in the Cacti and Succulent section, Notocactus magnificus.

At far right is a plant of xCitrofortunella mitis, entered in the section for plants grown for flowers or fruits.

Next year's show will be in a different location--the Hartford Convention center in downtown Hartford.  The venue and show promises to be even better. 

  We'll be there.  Be sure to visit our booth, this year's example being shown at left.