The 2026 PHS Philadelphia Flower Show celebrates the stories that ground us in gardening, whether it's the nostalgia of a grandparent's garden, a beloved family recipe that begins with the bright scent of freshly picked herbs and vegetables, or the heritage traditions that shape how we plant, grow, and gather. Through immersive garden exhibits and stunning floral displays, Rooted: Origins of American Gardening brings to life the personal stories, cultural traditions, and horticultural inspiration that connect us to plants, each other, and shape how growers garden today.
© Becca Mathias
As Philadelphia celebrates the 250th anniversary of American independence, the 2026 Flower Show offers a chance to reflect on the gardening legacies we've inherited and the ones we're growing for the future, shaped by people and plants from around the world. This year's Show will combine legacy and belonging with breathtaking artistry and larger-than-life creations that will take guests on a journey through a vivid world full of memory and magnificence.
As Philadelphia celebrates the 250th anniversary of American independence, the 2026 Flower Show offers a chance to reflect on the gardening legacies we've inherited and the ones we're growing for the future, shaped by people and plants from around the world. This year's Show will combine legacy and belonging with breathtaking artistry and larger-than-life creations that will take guests on a journey through a vivid world full of memory and magnificence.
The 2026 Flower Show marks the final chapter in a three-year trilogy of themes exploring the past, present, and future of gardening. In 2024, United by Flowers celebrated the current connections and community that grow through shared gardening experiences. In 2025, Gardens of Tomorrow sparked imaginations with visions of what the next generation of gardens could bring. Now, in 2026, Rooted: Origins of American Gardening looks to the past to honor the cultures, traditions, and stories that have planted the seeds of today's gardens.
© Becca Mathias
"This year's Flower Show feels especially personal because every plant or garden carries a story behind it. We all have memories tied to plants and Rooted: Origins of American Gardening is about sharing those diverse experiences and the ways they connect us. It will be a show filled with memory, meaning, and incredible creativity," said Seth Pearsoll, Vice President and Creative Director of the PHS Philadelphia Flower Show.
Now in its 197th year, the award-winning PHS Philadelphia Flower Show is a world-renowned gardening event and PHS's main fundraiser for its acclaimed greening work throughout the Philadelphia region that aims to advance health and well-being for all.
"Rooted: Origins of American Gardening reflects PHS's mission to use horticulture as a force for good by connecting people, places, and communities through the power of plants. As Philadelphia marks America's 250th anniversary, this theme honors the deep roots of gardening history and culture that nourish our city and its neighborhoods. At PHS, we're proud to carry forward this legacy by creating green spaces that foster resilience, equity, and well-being for all," said PHS President Matt Rader.
© Becca Mathias
Highlights
An immersive, show-stopping entrance garden that will blend historical influences with bold, modern design for a one-of-a-kind welcome.
Explore America's influence on gardening in a special exhibition celebrating the nation's 250th anniversary, made possible by The America 250 Grant. This sweeping four-garden installation created by visionary designers from across the country, tells the evolving story of American gardening, honoring its roots, resilience, and reinvention.
The world's largest houseplant and indoor plant competition with thousands of entries from a community of hundreds of expert and amateur horticulturists. Participants blend science and artistry to compete for blue ribbons, with entries evaluated by expert judges from across the country and internationally. Open to all plant lovers, this competition offers a unique opportunity to showcase the deep roots of our shared plant heritage. Interested competitors can learn more at the link here.
Join leading gardening experts at the free Know to Grow speaker series, included with your admission. Learn directly from gardening's leading voices as they share the wisdom, traditions, and techniques passed down through time, alongside fresh ideas that continue to grow gardening today.
© Becca Mathias
Enjoy perennial fan favorites, including botanical-themed crafting experiences and a marketplace of unique plants and handcrafted goods. Marvel at fluttering butterflies and master new skills in immersive, hands-on workshops, all celebrating the wonder of our connection to plants.
Visit the Kids Cocoon for family fun, where little ones can dig into hands-on activities and daily programs designed to spark curiosity about the natural world, planting the seeds for a lifelong love of gardening.
