Papyrus cyperus haspen |
Rabbit's Foot Fern ( Davallia fajeensis) |
Pelargonium L'Elegance |
We decided to have a go at Malvern this year. Ideas above my station? It felt like it. I scrutinised the schedule and thought very hard. How could we possibly get that Pelargonium over to Malvern? 4 feet of the most fragile, delicate and brittle trailing Pelargonium ever grown. I decided against even trying. Chris was quite outspoken saying that if it meant him carrying it every step of the way, it was going. Trouble was, he thought I meant the Spring show not last Friday!! True to his word he sneaked away from his job for a few hours and we set off with the whole plant on its stand but leaning dangerously on only 2 legs with Chris holding it all together! The boot was full of plants and flower arrangements and I had another Papyrus between my feet. There was no room to sit in the front - only enough room for Al to drive!
Chris doing a balancing act en route |
Garden flower arrangement |
When we arrived and saw the size of the tent and number of tables, I was immediately overawed. Still, no going back now. A friendly steward issued my competitor number and entry cards. Having found the right tables, Chris and Al carried in the exhibits and stood them all in place. A tad more titivating and that was it. No news til Sunday - or so we thought. The first surprise was a post on Facebook showing that the Pelargonium had won 1st!! At the time all three of us were having a bonfire and really couldn't believe it!
On Sunday, we set off in great excitement. I could hardly wait to see a coveted red and gold prize card. Imagine (if you can) my shock at finding 3 more!! The Rabbit's Foot Fern, the Papyrus and the arrangement of cut garden flowers had all won 1sts!! If ever there was a cause for celebration - that was it!! We'd already opened a bottle of fizz upon learning of the first win. Finding three more the following day...........................we're still coming back down to earth!!
We also made Worcester News: Success at Malvern
Gardening really can be full of the biggest surprises!