The first Flower Show was organised in the year 1896 by the Nilgiris Agri-Horticultural Society under the Chairmanship of Mr.J.H.Tremenhere, the then Collector of Nilgiris.
The flower show is conducted in the Government Botanical Garden during the third week of May every year. Until 1979, the flower show was conducted by the Nilgiris Agri-horticultural society. The Government has taken over the flower show from 1980 onwards by forming a committee called the Nilgiris Flower and Fruit Show Committee. Elaborate arrangements are being made to conduct the flower show in a fitting manner. The flower show attracts large number of tourists from all over India
To create greater awareness among the Flower Growers, Garden Lovers and the Farming Community, a garden competition is being conducted involving the Estate Gardens, Private Cottage Gardens, Public Gardens and various other categories of the garden. On an average, about 200 gardens compete. Garden competition is held prior to the flower show and best gardens are awarded prizes and cups.
Flower show is held for two days. First day is Inauguration of the show and second day prizes are distributed to winners of various competitions held in connection with flower show. On the day of flower show, about 250 numbers of exhibitors participate in different categories. Several government departments and voluntary agencies also display their activities for the benefits of the flower lovers and tourists. More than 50 varieties of potted plants are exhibited by the competitors during the Flower Show days. More than 150 varieties of cut flowers are exhibited by the competitors on the show days. Various kinds of tropical and temperate vegetables are also exhibited by the growers for the competitions. The tropical and temperate fruits exhibited for the competition also delight the visitors. The Floral decorations, Indian and Japanese Flower arrangements, Vegetable Carving, Flower Rangoli, Bonsai etc., are the major attractions during the show days. The exclusive cut flower stalls from the large private and public garden are also an attraction during the Show days. 59 rolling cups, 250 cups and cash prizes are awarded to the best competitors and exhibitors at a cost of Rupees 1.5 Lakhs.
