Seedling & Sport Competition

COMPETITION RULES:

1. All Plants will be entered with a randomly selected code number. No further identification is permitted in the Seedling  Category. Sport Category entries must also be marked “Sport of ……..” to be completed with the name of the plant it sported from.
2. Plant must be at least two divisions, all of an identical type. For example, a plant which is two divisions- one green and one margined, may not be entered. Minimal streaking (less than 5%) in a margin or center form is permitted.
3. All plants must be entered in an ordinary black plastic pot. This pot cannot have any decorations, markings, lettering, logos, etc. visible. No material other than potting soil, fertilizers, or insecticides may be visible. Specifically, any decorative material such as pebbles or glass beads is prohibited.
4. No foreign substances may be applied to the plant. Specifically, dyes, polishes, inks, powders, perfumes, and any other material which can alter the appearance of the plant are prohibited. Violation of this rule will result in disqualification of all plants entered by the entrant.
5. No plants showing evidence of nematodes, viruses, or other plant pests or diseases will be allowed in the Competition Room. If a plant has an unusual type of variegation that might be questionable, a certification that the plant is virus-free from a reliable testing source will allow the plant to be entered.
6. Flower scapes must be removed if in flower or above the leaves, unless they can be bent down and secured out of sight until balloting is finished. NOTE: Flowering plants may be entered in the Display area but not eligible for any awards.
7. No tying, wiring, hoops, stakes or other support may be used to alter the form of a plant. Repair of broken petioles or torn leaves is permitted. If tape is used it must be clear. No “bonsai” techniques are permitted.
8. Entrants are not permitted to “campaign” for their own plants or against others. All plants are to be voted for on their own apparent merits. Revealing information in such a way as to constitute an attempt to influence balloting is not permitted.
9. Plants may be entered in someone else’s name. If this is done, any prizes will be awarded to the originator. The person who entered the plant will be considered their representative. If plants are entered by more than one person, they will be considered a “team entry”. Only one of each award will be given.
10. In the case of a tie, a tie breaking committee will cast its vote to decide the issue. The committee will consist of three members drawn from the following pool in order:  Competition Director, Convention Co-chairs, Expert Critique Panel, Hosta Show Chair(s), Hosta Show Judges Chair. No member of this committee may be personally associated with any of the plants concerned.
11. All plants must remain on display until the Competition Room is dismantled on Saturday. Best Overall Seedling and Best Overall Sport Awards will be announced during Awards Ceremony on Friday evening.

 

PLANT ENTRY:                                                                                                                                            

Before arrival

1. Make sure all plants conform to the rules
2. Decide which side your plants look best from and place a temporary marker in each pot.
3. Use a paper clip to pin back one leaf to show underside and petiole.
4. Decide which color class best fits your plant based on the predominant leaf color during the growing season.

5. Cleaning plants and pots is highly recommended. Please do not water plants heavily before show, as dripping wet plants may be a problem in the hotel.

 

At The Entry Table

1. Select from face down code number stickers, which will be sorted by category and color class. If entering sports, also fill out “Sport of …..” sticker.
2. Register code number stickers with entry registrar. Sign the book showing that you have those numbers and receive your receipt. Do not lose this receipt as it is required to pick up your plants after the event.
3. Place your stickers on your plant’s pot as directed. Remember, you decide which side your plant will be viewed from.
4. You are finished. Attendants will place plants in show area. All plants must be picked up at designated time on Saturday.

 

AWARDING OF RIBBONS:

Best of Class, Best Overall Seedling and Best Overall Sport ribbons are awarded to the plant that receives the most votes cast by ballot (one per attendee). Numbered voting ballots are included in your name tag holder – NO EXTRAS WILL BE AVAILABLE so please do not lose your personal ballot!

Seedling Classes                                           

Class 1 – Green

Class 2 – Yellow

Class 3 – Blue

Class 4 – Margined

Class 5 – Medio Variegated

Class 6 – Streaked, Mottled, Other

Sport Classes

Class 1 – Green

Class 2 – Yellow

Class 3 – Blue

Class 4 – Margined

Class 5 – Medio Variegated

Class 6 – Streaked, Mottled, Other