Philadelphia Flower Show unveils 'Rooted' theme for 2026

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- The Philadelphia Flower Show will return next month with a theme that organizers say reaches deep into the nation's gardening past.

This year's theme, "Rooted: Origins of American Gardening," was announced Wedensday inside the historic Union Trust Building, the site of the show's first event 197 years ago.

Set to open Feb. 28, the show is an early sign of spring and a celebration of growth and renewal.

Mayor Cherelle Parker said gardens and public landscapes hold meaning far beyond aesthetics.

"They carry memory, heritage, resilience, and quite frankly, hope," she said during the kickoff event.

Organizers described "Rooted" as an invitation to reflect on personal and collective history. Inspiration comes from childhood memories of playing in the dirt to the experiences of ancestors who tended their own gardens.

"We're rolling out the floral carpet. This is how we do it in Philly," said Matt Rader, president of the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society.

State Rep. Jordan Harris says the theme serves as a reminder of shared identity and history.

"It reminds us of who we are, why we are, and why we are where we are today," he said.

This theme, steeped in tradition, connects to the nation's upcoming 250th anniversary.

"Everybody has a story of how they got into gardening. They think of a place they love. They think of how they learned something. Everybody has this emotional connection," said Seth Pearsoll, vice president and creative director of the Philadelphia Flower Show.

The Flower Show is known for its immersive displays and sensory experiences involving color, fragrance, and texture.

"We've won the trophy for best public event quite a few times," Rader said, adding, "Nobody else in North America has an event like this."

"Rooted: Origins of American Gardening" opens Feb. 28, and tickets are already on sale.