The Hong Kong Flower Show is a major event organised by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department to promote horticulture and green living. It was held between 11th and 20th March 2016 at Victoria Park, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong. The theme of Kadoorie Farm and Botanic Garden’s (KFBG’s) display this year was “Garden for the Senses,” featuring some unique landscape designs for gardens aimed at bringing people closer to nature.

Gardens are not just a home for plants; they are also a home for our soul. They provide us with an escape from stressful and hectic city life; and offer a place to relax and to rejuvenate. The beauty of nature awakens our senses and comforts our spirit. Throughout human life, from childhood to old age, gardens stimulate, train and sharpen our senses.

Our display featured fragrant flowers and aromatic plants, which we invited visitors to smell. We also encouraged visitors to admire the beauty of the blossoms and foliage. One volunteer said she saw many children exploring the plants; they touched the leaves and bark, feeling the different textures and tasted the flavours of some of the edible varieties. We had a lot of fun chatting with plant lovers and swapped horticultural tips with them.

Feedback from visitors told us that they learned about growing and cooking herbs from us and some said they were surprised to know that flowers could be used in salads. They were amazed by Nasturtium’s wasabi-like flavour. People can bond over plants and they elevate our senses.

Our display was selected for the “Grand Award for Unique Feature – Displays Section (Local)”. Flora Conservation Department’s Horticulture Officer Alice Hui collected the prize on 12 March on behalf of KFBG. The Flower Show attracted 530,000 visitors this year.