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Blue Ribbon Flowers and Vegetables

Late summer through fall is filled with County, Provincial and State Fairs. These are great places to show off your green thumb and maybe even win a blue ribbon.

Start by reviewing the entry guidelines provided by the fair; then follow them. These tell you the number and way to exhibit your entry. Many high quality entries are disqualified because the gardeners did not follow the guidelines.

Select the best quality flowers and vegetables. This does not necessarily mean the biggest. Select entries that are uniform in size and exemplify the shape, color and ripeness for that group of flowers or vegetables.

Avoid specimens with blemishes caused by weather, insects or improper handling. Use a knife or hand pruners to avoid damage when harvesting.  Carefully clean and trim stems as directed in the guidelines.

And bring along a few extras in case something gets damaged in transport.

A bit more information: And even if you missed this year’s deadline, check out the competition and start preparing for next year’s fair. For a list of State Fairs, click here.

Upcoming Live Events
& Webinars


Feb. 12, 2025
FREE WEBINAR:
Organic Insect Pest Management for Vegetable and Flower Gardens

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Feb. 14-16, 2025
NARI Milwaukee Spring Home Improvement Show
West Allis, WI

Feb. 19, 2025
FREE WEBINAR:
Strategies for Managing Invasive Plants

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Feb. 26, 2025
FREE WEBINAR:
Create a Beautiful Shade Garden

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Feb. 27, 2025
FREE WEBINAR:
How to Select Rain Garden Plants

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March 12, 2025
FREE WEBINAR:
Grow Pollinator-friendly Spring and Summer Flowering Bulbs

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March 19, 2025
FREE WEBINAR:
Be a Waterwise Gardener
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March 22, 23, 29, 30, 2025
REALTORS Home & Garden Show
West Allis, WI

March 26, 2025
FREE WEBINAR:
Succession Planting & Crop Rotation

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March 27, 2025
FREE WEBINAR:
Rain Garden Q & A

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April 2, 2025
FREE WEBINAR:
Container Gardens for Sun & Shade
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April 10, 2025
FREE WEBINAR:
Reinvigorate Your Rain Garden
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May 7, 2025
FREE WEBINAR:
Vertical Gardening
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May 15, 2025
FREE WEBINAR:
7 Steps to Managing Water on Your Property

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June 4, 2025
FREE WEBINAR:
Attracting Hummingbirds

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Dahlia Bulbs

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