Bella Italia 2009 Philadelphia Flower Show
By
Russell Windle
The American Ivy Society Director of Research

Bella Italia was Molto buon! for The American Ivy Society which took a Silver award this year at the world famous Philadelphia Flower Show. AIS had members from Canada, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Maryland, Virginia, Ohio and Georgia helping man the display and answer questions from the thousands of visitors to the show.

Many felt this was one of the best displays that AIS has had in the many years it has participated in the Show. AIS was presented an Award of Distinction for the second highest points awarded by the panel of Judges of the Plant Societies. Many Thanks to Don Nilsen, who provided his beautiful pots and garden furniture, Carl Hagerty for his metal work and artistic eye in building the porch and Kim Beury, the artist who did such a fantastic job at painting the walls of our display.

This was also the first year that The American Ivy Society presented a Ribbon for the best ivy entry from the four Hedera Classes in the Horticulture division. We awarded three ribbons, one for each of the Judging Days. The first two ribbons went to different entries of Hedera helix ‘Iantha’, one of the smallest and slowest growing ivies. The third ribbon went to an exceptional topiary form of Hedera helix ‘Needlepoint’.

Next year’s Flower Show will be “World Festival of Flowers” and will be held February 27 through March 7. We are already putting plans to paper for the AIS display. Anyone interested in helping with the design, installation or staffing of the display, contact Russell A. Windle at: ivyid@att.net