Northwest Flower and Garden Show Feb 20-24 at Washington State convention center

2012 Display Garden
Photo by Roy Mangel

The 25th edition of the Northwest Flower and Garden Show continues its rich tradition as a showcase of imagination and inspiration with gardens big and small, over 120 free seminars, "The PlayGarden" for families, a big line-up of exhibitors and more, February 20-24, at the Washington State Convention Center.

Shoreline participants in the show include RHR Horticulture - Landwave Gardens (Display Garden creator).

"The Silver Screen Takes Root...Gardens Go Hollywood," is the theme for the show's Silver Anniversary, and the region's top garden designers and landscape firms have embraced the tribute to filmdom in 23 colorful and dramatic display gardens. It's a Technicolor-like display of color, with thousands of blooming flowers and exotic plants giving showgoers a "sneak preview" of spring.

Adding to the anniversary festivities, the show's South Lobby will be the scene of live performances presenting gospel, classical, jazz and bluegrass performers.

For those seeking inspiration for gardens on their deck, patio and terrace, the "Small Space Showcase" presents creative container garden ideas through the use of plantings, outdoor décor and planters.

2012 Display Garden
Photo by Loren Alexanian

Show sponsor Subaru embraces the show's 2013 "Tinseltown-flavored" theme with its colorful garden on the Skybridge. "Taking You By Storm" draws its inspiration from the classic The Wizard of Oz. Dorothy, Toto, Tin Man, Lion and Scarecrow will be relying on their trusty Subaru to get them out of the whirling storm to safety. And you can click your heels as Subaru presents "There's No Place Like Home - And The Great Outdoors!," an interactive garden in the South Lobby.

The stars will shine with speakers sharing their knowledge and "how-to" information in over 120 seminars, free with admission to the show. For both beginners and veteran gardeners, it's a fun and information-packed line-up.

A series of "Gardening 101" symposiums for the new gardener runs Thursday through Sunday. Speakers include local favorites Val Easton, Lucy Hardiman, Kelly Dodson, Marty Wingate, Robin Haglund, Linda Chalker-Scott and many others.

See a complete schedule of seminars and book signings.

2012 Display Garden
Photo by Steven H. Robinson

The Swiss Family Robinson and its exotic tropical setting have inspired this year's "PlayGarden," the show's popular interactive feature for children and their parents developed by the show with the Seattle Children's PlayGarden.

With children 12 and under admitted free to the show, it's a fun-filled environment where children can touch, play, learn--and take something home. 

At the Sprout stage, families can sing along with popular children's singer/songwriters Caspar Babypants, Recess Monkey, Nancy Stewart, and Your Imaginary Friend. 

Performances are Wednesday-Friday at 11:30 am and 1:15 pm, and Saturday-Sunday 11:30 am, 1:15 pm and 3:00 pm. Visit the show's website for performer-specific showtimes.

2012 Toadstool Garden
Photo by Loren Alexanian

Hours and Admission

Show hours are Wednesday through Saturday (Feb. 20 - 23), 9am to 8pm; Sunday (Feb. 24), 9am to 6pm.

Adult "Early bird" discount tickets ($16) are available up to Feb. 19, and can be purchased by visiting the show's website or at over 75 participating nurseries and retail outlets in the region. Visitthe website for online purchases and complete listing of ticket sale outlets. Phone orders can be

placed at 800-343-6973.

Regularly priced adult admission tickets are $20, $15 per person for group purchases (minimum of 20 tickets online or at the door); $29 for single 2-day pass; $65 for single 5-day pass and $5 for youth (ages 13 - 17). Children 12 and under are admitted free to the show.