FGCMD
Flower Show Schools
2019 - 2021
What is Flower Show School?
Created by National Garden Clubs, this program is a General Course of Study for Members, Exhibitors and Judges
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Flower Show School is not only for prospective flower show exhibitors and judges, but also for all garden club members and all persons interested in flower design and horticulture. While the primary purpose of these courses is to train those wishing to become flower show judges, many people attend for information only and those people do not have to take the examinations!.

The School contains a series of 4 courses - each is  two and a half days long.  Each includes a day on Horticulture, one on Design as well as a session on Flower Show Procedure. Information on the topics are listed below.

This website has information on the programs offered by the Judges Council of the Federated Garden Clubs of Maryland, Inc. including location, hours, instructors and fees.


Course I Instructors (left to right)
Sue Kirkman and Kathleen Hawryluk

​​Horticulture Curriculum​​
The horticulture curriculum consists of basic general information on proper gardening techniques from seed / plant selection to plant culture and control of problems. Information is also presented on cultural needs of specific perennials, annuals, trees and shrubs, as well as fruits, vegetables and nuts and how to grow superior container plants.   Featured plants for the four courses are shown below.

      Course I:
  • Woody Ornamental Flowering Branches: Prunus
  • Container Grown Flowering Plants:  Orchids

      Course II:
  • Container Grown Plants: Herbs - Thymus
  • Cut Specimens:  Hosta

      Course III:
  • Arboreal:  Rhododendron
  • Container Grown Plants:  Cacti and Succulents

      Course IV:
  • Arboreal: Ilex
  • Cut Specimen: Chrysanthemum

Design Instruction

Design instruction covers traditional floral arrangements through contemporary styles and even designs incorporating lights and motors. Many attendees are particularly interested in table setting designs showing coordination of floral centerpiece, linens and dishes. Vignettes, small segments of rooms, also give ideas on interior decorating.  Featured designs for the four courses are shown below.  More information is provided in the Handbook for Flower Shows.

Course I:  Traditional Line, Line Mass and Mass Design
Course II:  Functional Table, Exhibition Table, Table/Tray for One and Petite Designs
Course III: Creative Design Examples
Course IV:  Advanced Design Types


Course I Participants and Instructors
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