We’ve had to wait two years for the return of Singapore Garden Festival — our very own biennial extravaganza that regularly attracts international horticulturalists, floral artists, and enthusiasts to Gardens by the Bay — but now that it’s back this year, time to get immersed in the beauty of nature again.
The theme for SGF 2018 is “World of Colours,” and the 73 displays scattered across 10.1 hectares follow through on this promise. Now in its seventh edition, the festival’s featuring works by botanical designers from all over the world — some just for show and some for the world-famous competitions in categories like Landscape Gardens, Fantasy Gardens, Floral Windows to the World, and Balcony Gardens.
At The Meadow, you’ll find a tropical rainforest garden made of more than 6,500 trees and 100,000 plants of 1,200 species, leading you all the way to the Supertree Grove. Wander through the Vanda Valley, a myriad of unique vandaceous orchids, take a stroll through the Lost Forest with rare plants native to Singapore, and end up at the Therapeutic Garden for an oasis of relaxation.
Besides gawking at the beauty of nature, you can also browse through the MarketPlace with over 100 booths selling food and drinks, crafts, plants, and gardening resources, or check out the new “Floral Jamming” event to hone your floral artistry skills at free sessions led by professional floral designers.
Here are some of our favorite displays from the massive event to get you started on your journey.
Orchid Extravaganza
Housed in the Flower Dome, this year’s version of the orchid show is a touching tribute to old Singapore and the aesthetics of the cultures that make it home. The layout is a blend of 14,000 orchids, with set designs by award-winning Singaporean filmmaker, Royston Tan.
Walking through the display, you’ll see Singapore as a quaint old village with pastel shophouses, beautiful household items and, of course, orchids growing in harmony with this shophouse scene.
Balcony Gardens
Singapore’s own Vincent Chia won this year’s competition, taking home both the Best of Show award and a Gold award for his Japanese-inspired design, which features smooth lines and a ceremonial tea set.
Floral Windows to the World
First time contestant, Dmitri Turcan of Azerbaijan, clinched the Best of Show award and a Gold award for his fiery hued yet minimal windows installation.
Show Garden
South African designer Leon Kluge received the Best of Show prize and a Gold award for his fantasy garden channeling the cultures, vistas, and natural forces of Africa — seriously, we were there, and photos can’t quite do justice to his swirling, living, garden-lightshow hybrid.
FIND IT:
Singapore Garden Festival is on from now till Aug 3 at Gardens by the Bay.
Tickets range from $12-$33 for adults; $6-$33 for seniors; $6-$20 for children.
MRT: Bayfront
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