Charmaine O’Neal has been growing a succulent plant known as a “Chinese pine” in her garden for a long time. Recently, she transplanted part of it to make it look lush and give it more room to grow.
She would later win the prize for Best in Show.
“I got my love for plants, nature and the environment from [my father],” said Ms. O’Neal, whose garden is just under an acre in size.
Asked if she’d expected to win the competition, Ms. O’Neal replied, “I’m always hopeful.”
She has won several prizes in the annual competition over the years, she added.
“I love plants and I love when they look healthy, lush and full of life,” Ms. O’Neal said. “I also love for others to see the beauty of the plants and flowers.”
Participation down
Though dozens of plants and flowers were judged during the show, the event saw lower participation than in the past, said Diehdra Potter, the NPT’s environmental outreach officer.
The turnout may have been affected by the Leverick Bay Poker Run, which was held the same day, Ms. Potter added.
Next year, organisers will consider holding the flower show at a later date to accommodate more residents, she said, adding that activities will also be included beforehand to “entice” students to compete.
Youths’ participation, she hopes, will encourage them to take an interest in gardening.
“It is something constructive for the children to do in nature,” she said. “You don’t have to have a big yard to be into plants.”
WINNERS
Floral Competition: Best in Show
Charmaine O’Neal
Junior Craft Competition
1st Place: Dejoie Sebastien
2nd Place: Katelyn Collins
3rd Place: Katelyn Collins
Honourable Mention: Gia Gibson
Senior Craft Competition
1st Place: Jarrell Fredericks
2nd Place: Jarrell Fredericks
3rd Place: Felix Walters
Honourable Mention: K’Zariah Harrigan
Gardeners compete at flower show
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