Landscape Entry Information & Requirements
Space Allocation and Design
There will be a maximum of 50 exhibits accepted in Divisions 2001-2003 and 15 exhibits in Division 2004. Space assignments will be allocated in the order they are received. Exhibitors must have entry fees paid and a current W-9 Tax ID form completed. All potential exhibitors must submit a landscape design by the deadline to reserve the space needed, including a request for border wall materials. Exhibitors are encouraged to use creative border materials. The coordinator must approve the design. Deviation from the approved plan can result in disqualification or removal.
Fair Theme
Landscapes do not need to be designed to reflect the annual Fair theme; however, it is encouraged that some elements of the theme be incorporated. Landscapes should showcase designs that could realistically be replicated by a homeowner in their own yard.
The 2026 Garden Show theme is “Enchanted Realms- A Garden Journey.” Exhibitors are encouraged to create their own enchanted garden space.
Construction Specifications
Hardscape: All hardscape elements (i.e., water features, walkways, patios, walls, etc.) must be in place by Monday, June 1. River-rock beds must have a liner underneath for easy removal.
Electrical: Electricity for the display is available and provided by Fair Staff. Electrical needs for exhibits must be coordinated with the Garden Show coordinator and the Fairgrounds electrician prior to landscape display installation. All electrical connections within the exhibit must be wrapped for weatherproofing. Cords must be UL-approved, heavy-duty, and three-prong grounded with a maximum length of 20 feet.
Lighting/ Sound: Lighting of exhibits is required as part of the judging rubric. The use of sounds in any display must be approved by the coordinator.
Water/ Pools: No standing water is permitted. Pool pumps must be screened. Pool liners should be 20 mil minimum and heavy-duty to prevent leakage. Waterfalls and fountains should be designed not to overflow when they are off. These will be shut off nightly after the Fair closes and on dark days unless prior arrangements have been made with the Garden Show coordinator.
Public Access: If the public is allowed to enter an exhibitor space, it must meet ADA specifications. Please see the Garden Show coordinator for additional information.
Miscellaneous: Exhibits must be finished on all sides visible to the public. Landscape containers must not be visible. Any concrete barriers, posts, landscape containers, electrical cords, water sources, etc., within the display area must be covered.
Materials
Exhibitors are responsible for providing their own materials, accessories, and labor. All products and materials used must be of high quality. Artificial flowers, foliage, and high-quality synthetic turf are permitted with prior approval from the Garden Show Coordinator.
All hardscape and decorative elements must be tasteful and appropriate for display in a garden setting. At the discretion of Fair Management, any items deemed inappropriate or distasteful will be removed and held for pickup at the conclusion of the Fair.
Provided Items
The Garden Show will provide on a “first-come, first-served” basis: Assigned space, block borders, fill dirt, rough grading, and mulch. Each landscape exhibit area will have electricity, security lighting, access to water, and a Fair-provided sign board for displaying your sign. The Fair will also provide a basic sign for each exhibit with the name of the exhibitor.
Accessory Suppliers
If an exhibitor needs to borrow materials or accessories, they should contact the Garden Show Office for a current list of potential suppliers. The exhibitor will need to arrange the details for pick-up and return with the chosen supplier and is responsible for any items included in their exhibit. In addition to the list, many other companies are responsive to requests for loans of the products to exhibitors. Exhibitors may contact other suppliers as they wish. To acknowledge the participation of accessory suppliers, their names may be included in the information that appears on the exhibitor’s additional sign.
Signs
The Fair will provide a basic sign for each exhibit with the name of the exhibitor. A sign board will be provided by the Fair to hold additional signage (maximum 24” x 36”) provided by the exhibitor. As part of the judging criteria, additional signage must include:
- Exhibit theme statement- Explain what the display represents and how
- A conceptual landscape plan of the exhibit- A bird’s eye view of the exhibit
- A plant identification guide- List all plant varieties and label plants with numbers
- A thank you list of suppliers- Thank all suppliers that contributed to the display
Literature
All literature and handouts must be reviewed and approved by the Garden Show Coordinator. All printed handouts must be professional in appearance and available in the literature holders attached to the sign holders. A limited number of literature holders will also be available by request. Staff will attach literature holders. Literature will be put in holders after judging is completed.
The use of QR codes is encouraged.
Exhibit Staffing
During Fair hours, landscape exhibitors (not suppliers) may staff their exhibits. Exhibitors must inform the coordinator when they arrive. The purpose of these staff members is to provide information and education. Sales are prohibited on Fair property.