After a two-year absence due to Covid-19, the Falmouth Spring Flower Show is back at the Princess Pavilions and Gyllnygdune Gardens in March 2022.
Cornwall’s oldest flower show has returned along with the sunny weather. It will take place from March 26th to 27th.
Contestants are preparing their final submissions to be ready for their chosen class, which include 30 daffodil categories, 12 children’s classes, photography, orchids, floral art and more.
The judges will announce the winners of this years Spring Flower Show on Sunday at 3PM.
Gabriel Williamson and Jack Aston presenting the daffodil entries
The show has also used this chance to show solidarity with Ukraine in light of Russia’s invasion by giving away free sunflower seeds – the country’s national flower.
Jean Carr is a volunteer at the Princess Pavilions and has offered more information on the sunflower seeds and the support for Ukraine:
“In Ukrainian folklore, the sunflower represents ‘warmth’ and the power of the sun. It’s found in the yards of village houses, on windowsills and city parks.
“We want to share and grow these sunflower seeds and there are 78 seeds in a packet and we’re giving them away for free.
“It’s a peaceful way of showing hope and solidarity for the people of Ukraine, and hopefully Falmouth will be flooded with sunflowers.”
Jacqui Owen is the Visitor and Community Engagement Officer for Falmouth Town Council and regularly helps run the show.
She added: “We also run an annual sunflower competition that is open to everyone of all ages. These are giant sunflowers and entry’s last year got up to 12 foot!”
“This year we are dedicating our show to the people of Ukraine just to get the message out there, it’s their national flower and to show we’re supporting them through all that they’re going through.”
The first show took place on April 21st 1910 in Gyllnygdune Gardens but moved to the Princess Pavilions Gardens when it was built in 1911.
The event has been a mainstay in the history of Falmouth over the past century and was only absent for the two World Wars and the recent coronavirus pandemic.
It seems it takes quite the global event to stop these flowers blooming…
Jean Carr and Jacqui Owen sharing sunflower seeds to support Ukraine