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What Makes the Vegetable Tent a Must-See at the New Forest Show
We caught up with Alison, Head of the Vegetable Section at the New Forest & Hampshire County Show, to learn what makes this part of the Show so special. From perfectly grown produce to the passionate community who return year after year to showcase what they’ve grown, she shares what visitors can expect – and why the Vegetable Tent continues to be one of the Show’s most loved attractions.
The Vegetable Tent is a colourful, awe-inspiring display of the best produce our exhibitors lovingly grow. Visitors are often amazed by the quality on show, stopping to marvel with comments like: “How do you grow them like that?”, “They don’t look like this in Tesco!” and “My veg never turns out like this!”
But behind the perfect parsnips and onions lies a community of dedicated growers – many of whom have been exhibiting at the Show for decades. These passionate individuals spend months nurturing their entries, and the results speak for themselves. For instance, our onion exhibitors begin growing from seed up to nine months before Show day!
It’s Not About Size – It’s About Quality
A common question from visitors is why the biggest vegetable hasn’t won first place. While giant veg may grab attention, our judges are looking for quality, not size. This isn’t the Giant Veg Society – it’s about perfectly shaped, healthy produce that not only looks good but tastes even better. Many of our exhibitors grow veg they’d happily put on their own plates, with flavour being just as important as appearance.
Get One-on-One Growing Advice
The Vegetable Tent isn’t just for admiring – it’s also a fantastic place to get expert advice. Many visitors come specifically to ask questions about their own gardens, from pest problems to growing tips. Our exhibitors are always happy to chat and share their knowledge. Whether you’re a seasoned grower or just getting started, it’s a brilliant place to pick up new skills and inspiration.
A Passion Passed Down
The heart of this section lies in the dedication of its people. Some of our longest-serving team members are in their 80s and have been showing – and helping to run the section – for many years. Until this year, they even camped close to the Showground to be the first ones on site to open up the tent each morning. Their commitment is a huge part of what makes this section so special.
Looking to the Future
While many of our members are on the more mature side, there’s a growing (pun intended) movement of younger gardeners inspired by Instagram accounts like @nettlesandpetals and @shegrowsveg, not to mention our own exhibitor @helenlikesplants. We’d love to welcome more young growers into the fold – whether it’s to compete, volunteer, or just enjoy the beauty and community of the veg tent.
Still Time to Enter!
Think you’ve got what it takes to enter your own produce? The deadline for entries is 22 July, so there’s still time! And even if it’s too late for this year, we hope visiting the tent will spark enough enthusiasm to get you growing for the 2026 Show!
Whether you’re here for the tips, or just the passion of it all, come along, meet the growers, ask your questions, and leave inspired!
Don’t Miss It – Get Your Tickets Today
The Vegetable Tent is just one of many incredible attractions at this year’s New Forest & Hampshire County Show. With expert growers on hand to answer your questions, displays of lovingly grown produce, and the chance to be inspired for your own garden, it’s an unmissable part of the Show.
And there’s so much more to see while you’re here – from thrilling displays by Ben Atkinson and his famous stunt horses, to livestock shows, artisan food stalls, shopping, live music and more.
Buy your tickets today and start planning your visit. For more details of what’s happening each day, head over to our What’s On page.
