Twenty-five members of the Garden Club of Denver and the Broadmoor Garden Club participated in this year’s Colorado on the Road event. The morning included a unique opportunity to tour the flower show alongside judges from across the country, followed by two guided tours of the Denver Botanic Gardens.
It was fascinating to gain insight into the judging process and the importance placed on adhering to the flower show schedule. Judges carefully evaluated each entry for both technical execution and artistic merit. In addition to ensuring compliance with the flower show schedule, dimensions, and placement requirements, they assessed the successful application of the Principles of Design (balance, contrast, dominance, proportion, rhythm, and scale), as well as the Elements of Design (color, form, light, line, pattern, size, space, and texture). These principles and elements serve as the foundation for evaluating entries across all categories of the show.
During our tour of the Denver Botanic Gardens, we were fortunate to be guided by Kevin Williams and Sonya Anderson, whose knowledge and enthusiasm greatly enhanced the experience. We learned that each garden area is assigned to a dedicated horticulturist and team responsible for its design, plant selection, seed ordering, and ongoing maintenance. This specialized approach allows staff to develop expertise within their designated gardens rather than working across all areas of the DBG. Particular emphasis is also placed on incorporating plants native to Colorado, and our horticulturists shared several of their favorite regional selections.
The morning was both informative and inspiring, providing a deeper understanding of the flower show judging process, the thoughtful management of the Botanic Gardens, and the many factors that contribute to the success and popularity of this remarkable community resource. Special thanks to Kevin Williams, Sonya Anderson, and our Garden Club of America Judges for sharing their expertise and helping us learn more about what it takes to be a judge.
-story by Lisa D.
-photos by Sarah A.
