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Frequently a new group of enthusiasts, probably in a new centre or in a town that has recently become flower-conscious, decides to hold a rose show. In many instances such a show has been held in quite a small way in private homes with no prizes and only the enjoyment of rivalry in producing the best blooms on the right day. Later these small groups develop into larger societies; the efficiency of their organization will depend almost entirely on the secretary. He would be well advised to seek help and guidance from large societies of long standing, especially the National Rose Society of the State in which the new society has been formed.

A well-drafted schedule will provide for all probable exhibitors, never forgetting the merest novice. In many districts there is no scope for an Open Section, in which the main competitors are usually professional growers, though amateurs are eligible. In all but very small shows separate sections should be provided for amateurs and novices. The overwhelming of a novice at his first attempt may kill his enthusiasm for ever. Each section of the schedule should include classes for specimen blooms, bunches or vases, and floral art work.

At most rose shows blooms are displayed in either metal containers or bottles of uniform size, shape, and colour. Specimen blooms need narrow-mouthed vessels; bunches need wider openings to accommodate the greater number of stems. A heterogeneous collection of containers spoils the general appearance of a show. Vases, bowls, baskets, and other containers are provided by either the exhibitor or the society, depending on the rules of the organization. All floral art work should be arranged by the exhibitor in the hall.

Printed exhibitors' entry cards, just large enough to be easily read, are necessary. There should be, on one side, the name of the society, the date of the show, space for a sticker denoting an award, and lines for the description of the class, the exhibitor's name and his address. On the reverse side the secretary should write figures clearly indicating the schedule class and the competitor's identity. For example, "15/4" would denote that the exhibit was staged for competition in Class No. 15 of the schedule and the exhibitor was No. 4 in the list of entrants for that class. At judging time this side of the card must be uppermost so that the judges are unaware of the name of any competitor. The awards are pencilled on this side of cards accompanying successful exhibits. Later an official of the society can fix gummed papers to the front aspect of these cards, denoting "First Prize" or "Second Prize".

All tables and trestles should be covered with cloth or paper of the one colour. Black is most useful and effective; white soils too easily; green detracts from the foliage; and grey is drab. Other colours are unsuitable for the purpose.

Roses must never be staged more than three deep. Sufficient space should be provided to avoid crowding of the exhibits. The benches, as the tables and trestles are often called, can be made in three tiers on each side, which helps in displaying the blooms and adds height to the whole show.

The benches are best arranged in a pattern that allows free movement of spectators. Keep the outer benches in long continuous rows and allot to them the trade exhibits, bunches, and wall-bracket classes, all of which give height to the display. In the centre of the hall should be a high focal point, such as a tall stand arranged by a city council or a commercial firm of rose-growers. Round this centre, but several feet from it, may be arranged flat tables for bowls, baskets, sprays, and other floral art exhibits that are to be viewed from all sides. On tables between these and the outer tiered benches will be placed displays, specimen blooms, and remaining classes for vases, bunches, and the like.

An information centre at a rose show is appreciated by hundreds of people. They come with all sorts of questions about varieties, modes of cultivation, types of soil, varieties of manure, and countless other problems. This centre provides a great opportunity for any society to increase its membership and extend its educational service. It needs to be in a conspicuous position and in charge of a carefully arranged roster of well-informed rose-growers. In addition to seeing well-grown and dexterously staged blooms, most people like to carry away some information that will help them to have better roses in their own gardens.