And that love was rewarded yesterday when Mr Smith, of St Helens, won 13 awards at the Launceston Horticultural Society's Dahlia, Gladioli and Lilium Show at St Ailbe's Hall.

Mr Smith said the win would inspire him to keep working hard in the garden.

``It (winning) never ever loses its thrill,'' he said.

``The quality of the other growers now is getting a lot better, and I've just got to keep lifting the bar to be up the top.''

The awards that Mr Smith won included the grand champion bloom, best large or giant bloom, best small and medium cactus and The Examiner champion bloom.

He said he would never lose his love of growing flowers.

``I got interested in gladiolus 45 years ago when somebody gave my wife a shoebox full of these dirty old bulbs,'' he said.

``I've retired now and I either spend all my time in the garden or out fishing.

``It nearly takes over your life.''

More than 30 exhibitors took part in the show.