It is 2012 and aside from a certain birthday party here in the UK, we have several things to celebrate, not least of which is Holland’s Floriade, the ten-yearly festival that, as of this year, has been going strong since its inception in 1960.
The theme for this year’s expo, which takes place in Venlo, and which attracts enthusiasts and professionals from across the globe, is ‘The Theatre of Nature’ which is considered by its inventor to be an interactive theatre, affording visitors a role of participation rather than mere observation. The concept circles around nature’s ability to engage all the senses simultaneously. We’ve already discussed the different psychological benefits of exposure to certain colours; however, Floriade is as much about the human dividends in nature, as it is about the reciprocation of the gifts the natural world gives us.
It’s no surprise that the event is only held once a decade as it is one of the longest running of the year - beginning just over a week ago and not winding down until early October. It is also one of the largest horticultural events in the world, this year occupying over 100 hectares for the fair and show grounds. This grand scale is understandable, given that the show has averaged three million visitors since its opening and peaking at nearly five in 1982.
The exposition this year is divided into five separate and distinctly themed ‘worlds’ designed to cover all aspects of the basic theme. These five areas could be said to encompass the key motivations behind modern horticulture namely the therapeutic drive of Relax and Heal, the integration between technology and nature as found in Green Engine, an investment in awareness with Education and Innovation, the rising importance in introducing green spaces to our urban settings covered by Environment and finally, gardening for its own sake, or for the sake of excellence, which will be promoted on the World Show Stage.
However, while horticulture certainly holds the limelight at Floriade it cannot be said to be only discipline exhibited, there are also stages for graphic art and design, music, dance and the theatrical arts. Aside from these, this year’s Floriade also boasts the largest gondola ride program in the Netherlands, with a maximum capacity of 4000 punters per hour!
Villa Flora, the indoor flower exhibition is the largest on the continent and quite separately there are over 100 commercial ventures and exhibitors and, as was a common theme for those working the floor at Ecobuild, the recent exhibition in London, you can expect a heavy focus on the application of sustainable energy sources and minimizing ecological footprints - something that has been both scrutinized and encouraged as one of the core foundations of this year’s event.
While Floriade promises to minimize its effect on the environment and derive maximum efficiency from waste products, the economic viability of the expo is also being taken into account. Why, even on their homepage they assure visitors of the quality of asparagus and beers to be found in the northerly region of Limburg!
The only question remaining is where will you be during this decade’s largest horticultural gathering? Considering the relative cheapness of a flight to Holland these days and the multitude of reasons to buy one, Floriade aside, can you really afford to miss it?
Chelsea 2012 – The People’s Champions
In the verdant realm of the Chelsea Flower Show, the People's Choice Awards stand out as a testament to public admiration and participation. In 2012, the Royal Horticultural Society celebrated the voices of thousands who cast their votes, culminating in a remarkable year for the awards. The Arthritis Research UK Garden, crafted by Tom Hoblyn, and The Bronte’s Yorkshire Garden, envisioned by Tracy Foster, emerged as the favorites, each reflecting a unique narrative and design philosophy that resonated with the masses.
A Blossoming Legacy: The Chelsea Flower Show 2012
The Chelsea Flower Show of 2012 not only marked a milestone for the event itself but also for one of its garden sponsors, Brewin Dolphin, as they celebrated a remarkable 250 years in business. This prestigious horticultural event, with its rich history and evolution, has become a cornerstone of British culture, attracting visitors and exhibitors from around the globe. Let's delve into the origins of the Chelsea Flower Show, its journey through time, and the highlights of the 2012 edition, including innovative garden designs and the introduction of a new category that captivated attendees.
Elevating Outdoor Living to Luxurious Heights
Transform your outdoor space into a luxurious oasis with high-end additions that blend comfort, style, and nature. From extravagant furniture to bespoke garden structures, investing in your garden can be as rewarding as upgrading your home's interior. Discover how to create an opulent outdoor sanctuary that reflects your taste and enhances your lifestyle.
