Calling all plant enthusiasts and flower admirers! Following record-breaking attendance last year, the highly anticipated Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show, proudly presented by Scotts, returns to the world-heritage-listed Carlton Gardens and Royal Exhibition Building this autumn. From Wednesday 20th until Sunday 24th of March, the five-day extravaganza promises a host of new and enchanting horticultural experiences for all.
From breathtaking floral exhibitions and enlightening talks by industry experts, to new food and entertainment zones and family-friendly workshops, the southern hemisphere’s largest horticultural event will transform one of Victoria’s most iconic gardens into a botanical paradise.
Uniquely set amongst a city backdrop, visitors will be dazzled by a reinvigorated program including internationally acclaimed landscape designers headlining the crowd-favourite Show Garden competition. Hailing from Sweden, newcomers Annika Zetterman and Kajsa Bjorne will bring their global flair alongside Ireland’s Peter Donegan and Japan’s Koji Ninomiya, returning for a shot at Gold.
Closer to home, the first Indigenous Show Garden, in collaboration with the Wurundjeri Council, will offer an immersive visitor experience that reflects the rich connection between the land and its custodians.
In another Show first, and in partnership with the City of Melbourne, visitors will have the chance to experience Urban Forest – an entertainment precinct located in the Royal Exhibition Building forecourt from 11am until the early evening each day. Festivalgoers and passers-by will be able to explore the sprawling space at no cost, with twice daily workshops and the added enjoyment of DJs and food trucks.
Other new program highlights include magnificent aerial floral displays, a sprawling Bloomin’ Wheels exhibition, interactive and edible cultural gardens, and stunning tablescaping inspiration.
The High Tea Lounge menu will also extend into Gardens by Twilight on Friday evening with an all-new Twilight Tapas offering.
“With a record 108,000 garden enthusiasts flocking to Carlton Gardens last year, we can’t wait to deliver another outstanding Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show this year. Our refreshed program boasts a host of world-class talent and awe-inspiring exhibitions inspired by the latest horticultural trends, providing an elevated visitor experience. Whether your green thumbs are budding or in full bloom, the show has something for everyone. It’s the must-attend event of the season!” said Marcus Gale, Event Director.
Outside, the grandeur of the outdoor program will ignite visitors’ senses with dozens of dazzling designs. Alongside the premier Show Garden competition, attendees can embrace the evolving nature of the Australian backyard with the 5m x 5m Boutique Gardens and the Achievable Gardens, led by aspiring horticulturists. The Balcony Gardens will also return showcasing a series of 2.4m x 1.2m oases alongside the bespoke Border Gardens and popular Hanging Basket Competition.
Creatives will marvel at the Arts & Sculpture Precinct, as the Nursery and Garden Industry Victoria entertains and educates little ones with a series of immersive experiences. Inside the Royal Exhibition Building, the Great Hall of Flowers will delight showgoers with a kaleidoscope of colour and enchanting aromas.
The all-new Blooms Unleashed exhibit will showcase award-worthy aerial floral displays as the effervescent Brush & Bubbles workshops return. Renowned Australian designer, John Emmanuel, will bring a show stopping display of wedding inspiration with a world-class floral installation, alongside floral fashions by RMIT students.
Kerry Sephton, Marketing Director of Scotts, said, “We are thrilled to be back at the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show as the official presenting partner for 2024. Returning with our much-loved Indoor Plant Growing Workshops, we are excited to engage and interact with new plant enthusiasts and reconnect with seasoned gardeners who have grown fond of the diverse range of Scotts products. Join us as we continue to foster a shared love for gardening at this year’s event!”
Tickets are now on sale at melbflowershow.com.au.