The 196th Philadelphia Flower Show, sponsored by the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society (PHS), has once again showcased the latest in gardening trends, with a strong focus on sustainability and eco-friendly practices. This year’s exhibition, themed “Gardens of Tomorrow,” highlighted innovative ways to preserve water, support pollinators, and combat food insecurity.
1. Water Conservation: Rainwater Collection
Water management was a key feature at the show, with exhibits demonstrating creative ways to collect and reuse rainwater. A display by Susan Cohan Gardens featured a central pond that captured rainwater for garden use, while another exhibit by W.B. Saul High School showed how simple it is to save rainwater using barrels under downspouts. This approach not only conserves water but also reduces stormwater runoff.
2. Pollinator-Friendly Designs
Pollinators are crucial for our ecosystem, and gardeners are increasingly prioritizing plants that support these species. An exhibit by Jennifer Designs Events showcased the importance of pollinators through a whimsical display featuring wildlife at a table, surrounded by pollinator-friendly plants like allium and coneflowers. This highlights how thoughtful plant choices can support biodiversity.
3. Aquaponics: Sustainable Farming
Aquaponics, a method combining aquaculture and hydroponics, was another sustainability highlight. An exhibit by Lankenau Environmental Magnet High School demonstrated how this system reuses fish waste as fertilizer for plants, creating a closed-loop system that conserves water and reduces waste.
4. Urban Gardening: Combating Food Insecurity
Urban gardening is gaining traction as a way to address food insecurity. A display by Mercer County Community Collection featured urban agriculture, mini meadows, and fruit trees, showcasing how urban spaces can be transformed into productive gardens. This approach can significantly improve local food availability and reduce food insecurity.
5. Meadow Gardens: Low-Maintenance Beauty
Meadow gardens, composed of native plants, continue to be popular for their natural beauty and low maintenance requirements. An exhibit by Arrange, LLC showcased the vibrant colors and textures possible in these gardens, highlighting their ability to connect communities and support biodiversity.
The 2025 Philadelphia Flower Show not only celebrated these trends but also inspired visitors to create more sustainable and biodiverse gardens, reflecting a future where gardening plays a crucial role in environmental stewardship.
