Entering flower show at fair is easy

Q. Can anyone enter the flower show at the Canfield Fair?

Sandy from Boardman

A. Yes! I bet you and many other gardeners in the Mahoning Valley have “Something to crow about” from the garden.

Entering may be easier than you think. Your first step is to call 330-533-4107 or stop by the fair administration office at 7265 Canfield-Columbiana Road. Ask for floral entry information, commonly called the schedule. It is absolutely indispensable and must be followed exactly. As a judge, I can tell you that I have disqualified many excellent exhibits because they did not conform to the schedule. It’s heartbreaking, because it is avoidable, and the entries are so beautiful.

Once you have your schedule, read the general rules and those for horticulture and design. Familiarize yourself with the entry dates. There are classes for juniors. Juniors must be 18 years old and under.

All exhibits must be tagged. Tip: Use return address labels. They are quick and can be easily read. You will need an “exhibitor’s number.” Get one from the clerk at the registration table. Do not skip this step. In the event of a tie it can be a tie-breaker. You may need to do some research because tags ask for section, class and variety. Be prepared; have this information with you. If this info is missing you can lose points.

Flowers are divided by class and sometimes divisions. This is where most entries can be disqualified. Pay close attention. Some divisions have special requirements or limitations. Dahlias, for example, are separated by size. Asters require three stems, whereas most other flowers want only one. You must remove seed pods from petunias.

Appearance is very important. Sometimes a flower will look best with leaves. But they should be growing out of the stem. Be certain they do not go into the water. Be on the lookout for bug holes or discoloration. As a judge, my biggest personal peeve is dirty leaves. I will deduct a high number of points because it is something you can easily control. Be sure to clean leaves that may have been splashed with mud or are otherwise dirty. The same thing applies to your containers. Do not use a product that makes leaves look shiny.

Take a look at the beauty in your own backyard, make an entry and “Give yourself something to crow about!”

Dan Burns is an OSU Extension master gardener volunteer. Call the office hot line at 330-533-5538 to submit your questions. Clinic hours are Mondays and Thursdays from 9 a.m.-noon, through October.