Daffodils are the epitome of Spring and the Daffodil section is one of the largest and most popular categories in our Spring Show. Our daffodil guide includes the daffodil classification, the main points which judges look for and the pointing system.
We also have a brief guide to Tulips.
General Information
Check the schedule for any requirements about, for example, the number of stems to display or the size of containers.
The Society provides the regulation green bikini vases required for displaying flowers such as daffodils and tulips.
The daffodils and tulips are judged according to the RHS pointing system.
Guide to Showing Daffodils
A beautiful display of daffodils is the hallmark of a traditional Spring show.
Check that you have correctly identified the daffodils you are exhibiting in each class and that you are showing them off in the best way.
Useful Information on our Website
RHS Daffodil Classification
RHS Daffodil Classification - Examples of Divisions and Colour Coding
Summary of Daffodil Classification and Showing Tips- Joe Ratlidge, KEHS
Showing Tips for Novices - Daffodil Society
Daffodil Society - Classification System
Additional Sources of Information
The RHS Horticultural Show Handbook – see section on Daffodils (Narcissus) for more information on the merits and defects that judges look for.
The RHS Scale of Points for Daffodils
The scale should be used as a guide to the relative importance of the features of an exhibit.
In a class of more than one vase, each vase is judged and marked individually. Before this is done, the exhibit as a whole is marked out of an additional 10% of total points for visual impact and coverage of divisions and colour combinations.
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In a class for single blooms:
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Points
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Form and poise
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3
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Colour
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2
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Condition and texture
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2
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Stem
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1
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Size (for the cultivar)
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1
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Presentation
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1
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Total
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10
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In a class with 3 or more blooms to a vase add 2 points for uniformity to the above.
Guide to Showing Tulips
Tulips create a glorious and colourful display in Spring.
All tulips, apart from those in the Single and Late Double and Parrot Groups must have 6 petals and 6 filaments with anthers. If not, although they would not be disqualified, they will only receive an award in the absence of other acceptable exhibits.
Tulips that are clearly diseased due to Tulip breaking virus will not receive an award.
No artificial support or wiring of blooms is allowed.
Flowers should be in good condition, at their peak and unblemished. They should be of good colour for the cultivar, firm and smooth and typical of their group. Stems should be stiff and strong enough to support the flowers with the attached foliage also being stiff and in good condition.
Where there are a number of flowers in a vase, try to ensure uniformity of size and form.
Additional Sources of Information
The RHS Horticultural Show Handbook – see section on Tulips for more information on the merits and defects that judges look for.
The RHS Scale of Points for Tulips
The scale should be used as a guide to the relative importance of the features of an exhibit.
Uniformity of size and form is important and a maximum of 5 additional points should be awarded in a class requiring 3-6 blooms and a maximum of 10 points for 9-18 blooms.
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In a class for single blooms:
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Points
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Condition
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4
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Form
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4
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Colour
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4
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Size (for the cultivar)
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2
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Substance
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3
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Stems and attached foliage
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3
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Total
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20
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