San Diego Cities Highlighted on American Horticultural Society Tour

City representatives will help determine where flowers are most effectively used to enhance beauty, stimulate economic growth, and lift community spirit.

 

For the past 10 years, America in Bloom (AIB) has been delivering praise and awards to American towns and cities that value of flowers and quality landscaping in their municipal plantings. America in Bloom is a non-profit organization promoting nationwide beautification programs and personal and community involvement through the use of flowers, plants, trees, and other environmental and lifestyle enhancements. During the Horticulture Society Tour, professional judges visit each community in this national awards program. During their one-on-one consultations with city representatives, they help to determine where flowers are (or can be) most effectively used to enhance beauty, stimulate economic growth, and lift community spirit. Planted medians, hanging baskets, decorative containers, window boxes, and flower beds all contribute to that goal.

A beautiful city attracts visitors, and that's especially true for participating towns in Southern California. This year, the American Horticultural Society (AHS) is partnering with America in Bloom communities to host a special tour showcasing this region of the country where flowers abound. Participating communities were in San Diego and included, Encinitas, Escondido, and Rancho Santa Fe. Rancho Santa Fe was a winner of the prestigious AIB five-bloom rating and has gone on to international competition.

In a three-day tour of north San Diego County, attendees will have an opportunity to visit public and private gardens and businesses where flowers play a significant role. ''Bold Color and Exuberant Flowers: San Diego County'' is being offered March 21-25, 2012. ''March is without a doubt the prettiest month in San Diego County; we're so proud to be able to showcase towns that have benefited from America in Bloom participation,'' said Evelyn Alemanni, author and award-wining gardener. Evelyn Alemanni and AHS honorary President, Katy Moss Warner, will judge the event. ''I have hosted many travel study tours in the United States and worldwide, and am so pleased that this tour will allow participants to enjoy a first-hand experience of some of San Diego County's finest gardens,'' Katy Moss Warner added.