Daffodil lovers learn judging secrets at Hobart flower show workshop

Judging daffodils at flower shows was an unexpected path for Robert and Kerrie Goudsouzian, but one they now find deeply rewarding. "It never crossed my mind, but now that we've dipped our toe in the water I guess we're learning so much more," Ms Goudsouzian shared. The couple was among a dozen daffodil lovers who gathered in Hobart's northern suburbs for a workshop focused on the intricacies of judging.

“

It never crossed my mind, but now that we've dipped our toe in the water I guess we're learning so much more.

Internationally recognized daffodil breeder Rod Barwick guided the participants through the essential judging criteria. He detailed the importance of condition, form, substance, texture, pose, color, and size, using examples from his own garden. Mr. Barwick explained the technical terms, noting that a "real daffodil has six petals," technically called perianth segments, with three at the back and three at the front. The central part, regardless of its shape, is called a corona.

“

And it just gives you a different appreciation for nature, for the flowers, the people who are involved in this.

The workshop also touched upon the reproductive parts of the flower, with Mr. Barwick explaining the stigma and anthers. He humorously likened intact male parts to the necessity of a contestant's features in a "Mr World contest." With over 26,000 cultivated daffodil varieties globally, the session provided a focused look at appreciating these flowers.

“

A real daffodil has six petals.

Organized by Mr. Barwick and his niece Janelle Noble, president of the Claremont Flower Show Group, the workshop aimed to capitalize on a growing interest in flower shows. "I am really hoping that more people will get involved [in judging] and have a greater appreciation of daffodils," Ms. Noble stated. She believes "the interest is there and people are really keen to get on board and learn and enjoy."

“

Technically they are called perianth segments. Three of the segments have to be at the back, there should be three at the front.