From Belconnen and Gungahlin in the north to Molonglo and Tuggeranong in the south, Floriade’s one million bulbs and annuals are being planted in locations right across Canberra as part of this year’s spring festival.
For over three decades, Floriade has been synonymous with the start of spring in Canberra.
This year, Floriade: Reimagined will see the biggest change in the event’s 33-year history as it adapts to the current Covid-19 landscape.
The different approach this year will see the bulbs and annuals, which usually fill Commonwealth Park, planted at various locations across Canberra suburbs. This new format will allow workers to adhere to public health restrictions around mass gatherings and social distancing.
Floriade’s bulbs will be planted in garden beds or portable flower beds in Belconnen, Gungahlin, Canberra City, Woden, Tuggeranong, Kingston, Manuka, Braddon, Dickson, Kippax, Condor, Mawson, Hall, Kambah, Nicholls, Weston Creek and Molonglo. A detailed list of locations is available at floriadeaustralia.com.
Floriade head gardener Andrew Forster said that while this year has been one of his biggest challenges, it will be great to see the flowers right across the national capital.
“I have worked on every Floriade so far and each year is always different. This year is one of our biggest challenges as we move the flowers to different locations around Canberra. It is my favourite time of year seeing the flowers bloom and it will be great to see that happen all around Canberra this year.”
Bulbs will also be provided in wheelbarrows and pots to local hospitals including The Canberra Hospital, Calvary Hospital, University of Canberra Hospital, John James Hospital and Clare Holland House.
Locations for the plantings have been selected on a set of criteria including access to water, visual impact, accessibility and distribution across Canberra.
To extend the celebration of Floriade: Reimagined in Canberra, community organisations will have the opportunity to apply for an allocation of bulbs and annuals to plant and grow in their local communities. Applications are now open and close Wednesday 6 May 2020. For information on how to apply visit floriadeaustralia.com.
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