THE hot, dry summer has left gardens across northern Tasmania parched, but many green thumbs relish the challenge of producing resilient flowers capable of weathering the conditions.
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Some of the best summer flowers, vegetables, floral art and pot plants from the region spanning St Helens to the North-West coast will be on display at the Westbury Garden Club Summer Flower Show in February.
It is one of two shows held by the club per year, with another held in spring.
Dahlias are the highlight of the show.
Show convenor Ros Groom said the summer show would be a reflection of the season.
“It’s very seasonal, it’s been a hot, dry summer,” she said.
“Because it’s been so warm, a lot of the vegetables have come in and seeded very early. Of course you always have your potatoes, carrots, beans.
“It’s amazing what exhibitors are able to do.”
Organisers are also hoping to see some results from the distribution of dahlia bulbs to school children last year.
Ms Groom said it was important to get younger generations interested in gardening.
“We’ve got a new special class for children entries,” she said.
“We want to encourage the love of gardening. It helps you to feel a part of the community, especially with a lot of new people moving to the area.
“They want to meet other people, and they find that gardening is a good way to meet your neighbours.”
The Westbury Garden Club started in 1958 and held its first event at the Westbury Town Hall in February the following year.
Inaugural member Phyllis Ingamells continues to support the club by donating prizes and encouraging exhibitors.
Categories for the summer show include grand champion dahlia, seedling dahlia, waterlily, ponpon, incurved cactus, orchid, roses and cut flowers, taking in all levels from beginner to expert.
The Westbury Garden Club Summer Flower Show runs from 1.30pm to 4pm at the Westbury Town Hall, with entries by 11am.
Entry is $2, and $5 for afternoon tea.
