Catch a breath of spring at the Philadelphia Flower Show

MONROE — On Saturday, March 11, the Monroe Free Library plans a trip to the Philadelphia Flower Show, a popular attraction for 177 years. The exhibition chose “Enchanted Spring, A Tribute to Mother Nature” as this year’s theme. Visitors enter the show under the fragrant Floratopia Tree, teeming with flowers, birds and butterflies. The largest plant sculpture in the world, Natura, goddess of nature, rises 27 feet from the show floor. Mother Nature’s garden features: water, dripping with dancing fountains; wind, filled with colorful kites and unique cloud formations; and fire, a hot look at tropicals in a mythical setting. There are over 10 acres of gardens, inspirational landscapes, and shopping. Talented landscape, floral, educational and not-for-profit organizations from around the world complete this pageant of gardening artistry with award-winning exhibits. Winding paths are rimmed with rainforests, a miniature vineyard and a perennial meadow. One hundred and forty national and international vendors sell everything from a selection of seeds and bulbs, to displays of orchids, garden art and sunrooms. Two distinct locations offer an array of free activities. The gardeners studio hosts daily how-to demonstrations by local experts. Gardening demonstrations and lectures are conducted daily, as well as culinary demonstrations by celebrity authors, television personalities and chefs. A complete schedule of special events is available at www.theflowershow.com. Admission and motorcoach fare to the Philadelphia Flower Show is $45. For more information, visit the Monroe Free Library at 44 Millpond Parkway in Monroe, or call 783-4411.