The Mount Arrowsmith Rhododendron Society is looking for a few green-thumbed youths.
Society spokesperson Marilyn Dawson said the group is creating a special category in the upcoming Rhodo Show and Sale in an attempt to interest young people in gardening generally, and rhododendrons in particular.
Anyone who is 14 years and younger is being encouraged to enter a rhododendron bloom and become acquainted with the flower show process, she said.
The big event is slated for April 27 at the Parksville Curling Club.
Flowers must be at the rink by 8:30 a.m. Doors open to the public from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., when patrons can shop for rhodos and companion plants from a dozen vendors, vote for their favorite rhodo on display and attend short talks on topics such as pruning, bonsai and planting.
It may be a little late for young people to start planting in order to get a bloom for the show, but chairman Glen Jamieson said the bloom entered can be from a plant owned by somebody else.
“In other words, grandma’s garden can be raided — with permission,” he said. “In fact, a parent and child could each enter, since all adult categories are open to the public.
For more information, contact Marilyn Dawson at 250-752-3694.
