By Dean Poling
VALDOSTA — The 45th Annual Camellia Show Saturday will feature many camellia blooms, garden exhibits and even Vince Dooley.
Yes, the legendary University of Georgia sports figure will be attending the camellia show to sign his most recent book, “Dooley’s Play Book.”
What was once the Valdosta Camellia Society has changed its name to the Valdosta Camellia and Garden Club, but visitors should find the same quality of show they’ve come to expect for the past 45 years.
The show expects exhibitors and visitors from four states, says Mark Crawford, Valdosta Camellia and Garden Cub president.
“There will also be an educational poster featuring the Whitehead Camellia Garden and Trail with flowers from the garden on display that was put together by the Archives Department at the Valdosta State University library,” Crawford said. “This is part of a cooperative effort between VSU grounds, the Camellia Club, the Grand Bay Chapter of Master Gardeners, and the KA fraternity to restore the gardens and eventually develop them into a park for students and the community to enjoy.”
Two nurseries will offer plants for sale that are not available at garden centers.
Anyone interested in entering the show may do so from 8-10 a.m. Saturday.
The show is open to the public from 1-7 p.m. Saturday at the VSU University Center off North Patterson Street.
