Philly Flower Show 2026

This year, Hortus Forum proudly continued one of our club’s longest-standing traditions: participating in the Philadelphia Flower Show. For generations, our club has used this opportunity to showcase the plants we grow, share our passion for horticulture with a wider audience, and celebrate the dedication of our members. This year’s exhibition was another incredible milestone, highlighting the skill, creativity, and teamwork that goes into maintaining our collection throughout the year.

After months of propagation, care, and preparation in our greenhouse, Hortus Forum brought over 100 plants to compete at the show. Our collection represented the incredible diversity of plants our members grow, from unique tropical species to rare and unusual houseplants. The hard work and attention to detail of our members was recognized throughout the competition, with 36 of our entries earning awards. In total, Hortus Forum received 5 first-place ribbons, 11 second-place ribbons, and 20 third-place awards, along with 6 class commendations and 6 honorable mentions. These achievements reflected not only the quality of our plants but also the dedication and knowledge of the students who grow and care for them year-round.

Beyond the competition itself, the Philadelphia Flower Show trip provided a valuable opportunity for our executive board to strengthen our connections as a team and gain new perspectives within the horticulture industry. Throughout the trip, we explored gardens, botanical institutions, and specialty plant collections throughout the region, exchanging ideas and learning from the many different approaches to horticulture represented across the area. These experiences helped inspire new ideas for Hortus Forum while creating lasting memories among our members.

A highlight of this year’s trip was our visit to Longwood Gardens, where we were welcomed for a special tour of their renowned gardens and horticultural facilities. During our visit, we learned more about the work of their horticulture, education, and science teams and gained insight into the many career opportunities available within the botanical field. Seeing the scale and dedication behind one of the world’s premier gardens was both inspiring and valuable for our members, providing a deeper appreciation for the impact botanical institutions can have on plant education, conservation, and public engagement.

From award-winning plants to new friendships and educational experiences, this year’s Philadelphia Flower Show trip represented everything that makes Hortus Forum special. It celebrated our club’s history while giving members the opportunity to grow as horticulturists, students, and leaders. We are proud to continue this tradition and look forward to sharing our plants and passion for horticulture at the Flower Show for years to come.