The annual show organized by the Oxford Branch of the British Cactus and Succulent Society (BCSS), in collaboration with the Haworthia Society, attracted over 200 visitors throughout the day at the Old Mill Hall in Grove. With more than 450 plants exhibited across 95 competitive classes, the event showcased a stunning display of cacti and succulents, drawing significant attention from enthusiasts and participants alike. Expert judges assessed the displays, awarding prizes to the most exceptional specimens.
Celebrating over 20 years of success, the show has become one of the leading regional events of its kind in the UK. Bill Darbon, Branch chairman, expressed pride in the recognition achieved by both the exhibitors and the judges. This year, the event welcomed visitors from as far away as Greece, further emphasizing its international appeal and the high standards upheld by the Oxford Branch.
The show brought together British Cactus and Succulent Society members from across the UK, including attendees from Birmingham, Essex, Harrow, Hampshire, High Wycombe, Leicester, London, Milton Keynes, Peterborough, Reading, South Wales, Wiltshire, and Woking. Non-members with an interest in succulents also participated enthusiastically, contributing to the event’s inclusive and collaborative atmosphere.
The British Cactus and Succulent Society, a registered charity with 50 branches across the UK, is committed to public education about succulent plants and advocating for their conservation. Events like the Grove annual show are vital in fulfilling the society’s mission of raising awareness and advancing horticultural knowledge.
Locally, the Oxford Branch holds monthly meetings at Rose Hill on the fourth Thursday of every month, offering members a chance to connect, exchange expertise, and grow their knowledge about cacti and succulents. These gatherings help foster a strong sense of community and promote best practices in cultivating succulents.
The annual show remains a highlight of the Branch’s activities, creating a platform to educate a wide audience about cacti and succulent plants. Both seasoned growers and newcomers were welcomed, fostering an environment of shared learning and discovery. Visitors were encouraged to deepen their appreciation for these unique plants while benefiting from the expertise of the exhibitors.
Old Mill Hall in Grove served as a prime venue for the show, with its spacious layout and abundant natural light perfectly complementing the vibrant displays. Skillfully grown and meticulously arranged, the plants captivated guests with their intricate forms, colors, and textures. The careful presentation reflected the dedication and care of all growers involved.
The competition added another layer of excitement to the event. Judges assessed each plant against specific criteria, rewarding excellence while inspiring participants to improve their techniques and cultivation standards. This evaluative process also nurtured collaboration and knowledge-sharing among growers, enriching the community’s collective expertise.
The success of the event was made possible by the tireless efforts of the Oxford Branch members and the organizing committee. Their attention to detail in venue preparation, display coordination, and prize distribution ensured a seamless experience for attendees.
Beyond its immediate enjoyment, the show promotes environmental awareness by inspiring visitors to appreciate and conserve succulent plants. This emphasis on education and sustainability underscores the importance of these species in our ecosystem.
As the Grove event continues to grow in reputation and attendance, it serves as a significant platform for horticultural education and awareness. It not only entertains and informs plant enthusiasts but also reinforces the crucial role of succulents in ecological conservation.
If you’re interested in discovering or promoting local horticultural activities, consider using Wantage’s [directory](https://wantage.com/directory/) to [submit a listing](https://wantage.com/submit-listing/). For those looking to host their own events, the “Venues for Hire” [section](https://wantage.com/directory/venues-for-hire/) offers useful resources for event planning in Grove and beyond.
