The show season is from late-summer until early winter, with most shows occurring in late summer and early autumn.

Although there are classes at some flower shows specifically for the biggest vegetables, the aim of exhibitors in most shows is to grow an even sample that conform to defined condition, size and uniformity, presented in the approved way. This is considered to test the growing skills of the exhibitor to the highest level.

Points systems are generally applied to judging, and it is highly advisable to follow a recognised pointing system.

A common question is "What varieties are best for showing?" In fact, any well-grown

Gardeners often use the word variety when referring to a specific plant, but the correct botanical term is 'cultivar'. Whichever word you use, it means a distinctive plant or plants, given a specific cultivar name and usually bred to enhance certain characteristics, such as flower or fruit size, colour, flavour or fragrance, plant size, hardiness, disease resistance, etc. Additionally, it is worth knowing that, botanically, variety has another meaning - it refers to a naturally-occurring distinct plant that only has slight differences in its looks. For example, Malva alcea var. fastigiata differs from typical plants by having an upright habit.

However, some cultivars scrub up especially well for the exhibition bench. Seasoned exhibitors often have personal favourites with which they are often highly successful, and their advice is generally worth taking.  Established and widely available cultivars include:

BROAD BEAN: Exhibition Longpod, Imperial Green Longpod
DWARF FRENCH BEAN: Masterpiece (flat pods), The Prince (flat pods) or any round-podded cultivar, although flat podded peas are preferred by exhibitors
RUNNER BEAN: Enorma, Liberty
BEETROOT (round): Boltardy, Red Ace F1, Pablo F1
BEETROOT (long): Mammoth Long, Cheltenham Greentop
CABBAGE: Any

These are cultivars, usually of vegetables or annual flowers, that have been bred to offer uniformity and specific desirable characteristics, such as strong, healthy growth and abundant flowers or fruits. They are produced by crossing two stable seed lines (called inbred lines). Seeds of F1 hybrids tend to be more expensive, but generally produce more robust, uniform plants that are better able to cope with adverse conditions. However, seeds saved from F1 hybrids will not produce offspring that are identical to the parents.

A plant produced by crossing two distinct parents, often different species, to produce offspring that combine the characteristics of both. Hybrids can occur naturally, but crosses are often made deliberately by plant breeders to produce plants with better yield, improved flowering or vigour, or improved disease resistance.

hybrid

Available as seeds, and in some cases plants, from a wide range of suppliers, including specialist exhibition growers:

Fosters Seeds

JBA Seed Potatoes
Tel: 01461 202567

Medwyn’s of Anglesey
Tel: 01248 714851

W. Robinson & Son (Seeds & Plants) Ltd
Tel: 01524 791210

National Vegetable Society

National Pot Leek Society
Derek Richardson, 147 Sea Road, Fulwell, Sunderland SR6 9EB

It is vital to carefully read the schedule prepared by the organisers. Visiting shows, perhaps taking pictures, is the best way to find out what a winning exhibit should look like. Joining specialist societies is a good way of finding help and advice from experienced growers.

The decision of the judge is final.