The traditional Rose has topped the polls as the nation's favourite flower, according to the results of a national representative TNS mrbi survey released by Bord Bia, host of Bloom 2007, Ireland's largest and most spectacular gardening showcase.
The survey into the nation's gardening habits indicates a soaring interest in horticulture, with 71% of respondents having visited a florist or garden centre at some stage in the past twelve months, women being more frequent visitors than men.
Further research conducted by Bord Bia indicated that consumer spend in independent garden centres doubled in the last 4 years to €240m with DIY store sales growing to €147m in the past year. Six and half million purchases of outdoor plants and flowers were made in the year ending April 2006, an increase of 27% in 4 years.
"These survey results only reiterate what we already know; Ireland is a nation of gardeners. Interest in outdoor living and garden development continues to soar every year and it is against this backdrop that we envisage Bloom blossoming into the centre-piece of the Irish gardening calendar. Rich in detail and insight, it will be a worthy showcase for the talent and flair that is out there among our talented garden designers" commented Angela Kennedy Chairman of Bord Bia, host of Bloom 2007, which will be held in the Phoenix Park over the June Bank Holiday.
Additionally the survey revealed that for many people, working in the garden is something to be enjoyed rather than endured, with nearly half of those surveyed (44%) stating that they find gardening to be "fun". Just being in the presence of flowers is enough to make a person ‘happy and relaxed', according to 7 out of 10 respondents. One in five adults considers their garden an "extra room" in their home. The appeal extends to young people, with 36% of those aged between 15 and 24, selecting barbequing as their preferred garden activity.
For everyone with an interest in gardening, entertaining or relaxing in the garden, there is plenty to inspire and enthuse at Bloom 2007, with over 30 stunning show gardens and interactive installations on display throughout the June bank holiday weekend.
Each show garden has a distinctive theme ranging from traditional through to contemporary influences providing inspiration and ideas for gardens of all shapes and sizes. The Bloom showcase will include daily entertainment; creative workshops; cookery demonstrations from Ireland's top chefs; exquisite arts, crafts and sculpture displays; outdoor food markets; a variety of specialty garden retail exhibits; a family ‘fun learning zone' and Ireland's largest ever nursery and floral display.
Bloom will be the largest event of its kind an Irish audience has ever seen and will match the quality and high standards of the top gardening shows in the UK. Bord Bia will also use the event to showcase the best of Irish food by hosting a large-scale outdoor food market and a specialty food pavilion. The OPW has kindly provided Bord Bia with the use of the Visitors Centre, Phoenix Park, a beautiful backdrop and central, accessible location for this event.
Adult ticket prices start at €15 and there are a number of family orientated discounted packages. To avoid disappointment, book your tickets now on www.bloominthepark.com or call 0818 300 260.
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For further information contact:
Rosaleen O'Shaughnessy, Corporate Communications, Bord Bia
Ph: 01 614 2245