The 44th Greater Victoria Flower Count ended on March 13, with more than 44 billion blossoms — 44,588,324,077 to be exact — counted during the weeklong event.
Victoria won the “Bloomingest” title with almost 20 billion blossoms counted, breaking Colwood’s five-year winning streak.
Mayor Lisa Helps said the blossoms are a signature image of Victoria, where residents are passionate about their gardens.
“It is no surprise our committed residents were able to submit the highest count,” she said in a statement.
Saanich was runner up with 14.5 billion blossoms counted.
Lesley Mill’s class at Cordova Bay Elementary School in Saanich was the elementary school winner, having counted 13.2 billion blossoms. They won a trip from L.A. Limousines to Butchart Gardens.
The flower count is held each year in February or March. The lighthearted event is meant to highlight the region’s mild climate at a time when much of the rest of the country is still grappling with freezing temperatures.
“Destination Greater Victoria was proud to once again sponsor the Greater Victoria Flower Count,” said Paul Nursey, the organization’s CEO.
“It is a Greater Victoria tradition. Engagement was strong throughout the region and I would like to thank those that participated in the event.”
