Lake Wales, Fla. – Horticulture staff at Bok Tower Gardens have once again put Florida’s garden reputation on display. By loading gym‑style weights onto a single Victoria waterlily pad, the team set a new garden record of 285.7 pounds, surpassing the previous benchmark of 183 pounds.
How the record was achieved
Nursery manager Debbie Franco began the project with a pea‑sized seed. Over four months the plant grew a leaf that stretched 74 inches across, a size the team says is aided by the state’s abundant sunshine, high humidity, and deep pond waters. Franco explained that air trapped within the leaf’s vascular structure provides natural buoyancy, while the outer surface feels almost leathery to the touch.
“They’re just beautiful. They bring a lot of visitors. People are always inspired to come here and see the waterlilies,” Franco said. “It’s always surprising for people to see they’re real. Up close, they’re almost Jurassic‑looking.”
Joining a global friendly competition
The record places Bok Tower Gardens in the International “Weigh‑Off” challenge, a light‑hearted contest organized by Denver Botanic Gardens that began in 2023. More than 70 zoos, parks, and botanical centers worldwide are competing for top honors this year, with categories ranging from lightweight pads to fan‑favorite designs.
“It’s a really wonderful collaboration because gardens of all sizes can participate, and it really provides all of us with exposure to crowds and people who may not be aware of us,” said Brendan Huggins, director of horticulture at Bok Tower Gardens.
What’s next for the garden?
Judges have not yet announced whether the Florida garden will claim the overall heavyweight title. Winners in several categories, including the Lightweight Competition and Fan Favorite, will be revealed on Friday. The overall champion receives a championship belt, a trophy, and annual bragging rights.
Beyond the accolades, staff note that the competition offers a welcome diversion from daily duties. “The folks participating in it, whether they’re in the water or on the land, they’re having a lot of fun doing it, and I think that allows our staff to break out of their regular responsibilities and have an opportunity to do something enjoyable together,” a staff member said.
Why the event matters locally
For Lake Wales residents and visitors, the waterlily weigh‑off highlights the garden’s role as a regional attraction that blends education, recreation, and natural beauty. The record‑breaking leaf draws attention to the unique climate advantages Florida offers to horticulturists, reinforcing the state’s reputation as a leader in botanical innovation.
As the competition progresses, Bok Tower Gardens hopes the achievement will encourage more families and school groups to explore the garden’s trails, ponds, and historic tower, fostering a deeper appreciation for nature and community stewardship.
Original reporting: Tampa Bay Florida News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
