"Class 5: My Favorite Plants" was the theme given to the "Professional Gardeners Challenge for the 2024 Newport Flower Show. For 2024 the show returned back to Rosecliff, after the major renovations were in progress to the exterior of the property the previous year. For this 'invitation only' category, we were to create an informative display using an aluminum raised bed container (provided), to consist of our favorite plants, provide a guide and description. I was happy to be joined in the challenge with friends and fellow gardeners who are held in high regard. Stiff competition, to say the least, but I enjoyed every minute of it. From creating the design layout on paper, to narrowing down and selecting my favorites to include. I decided to split the display in half, by including a handmade trellis made from my Dad's grave vine clippings as a divider. One side contained an arrangement of my favorite perennials and groundcover plants, such as climbing pink roses, may night sage, liatris, echinacea, gaura, and 'burgundy glow' ajuga. While the other half contained edible favorites such as sunflower, cherry tomatoes, herbs, and pest repelling annuals. I already received my instructions and have started planning this year's entry. "Love what you do, and you'll never work a day in your life.' So true!