This section of the Holt Boyd 4-H Fair Regulation Book includes - Agronomy; Range Management (Range Management and Weed Science); Horticulture (Floriculture, Vegetables, Herbs, Fruits)
County Only Exhibits:
IMPORTANT - There is NOT a County Only Section in the Fair book. There will either be a CF or SF in front of Class Number.
- CF: means that exhibit is ONLY eligible to be exhibited at the County Fair.
- SF: means that exhibit if CHOSEN at County Fair is eligible to advance to State Fair.
All exhibits eligible for entry at county and state fair are identified by numerical class numbers. Those which are eligible only for the county fair are identified by 900 numbers. Exhibit must be one that fits into the project area. Use manual for ideas. Call the Extension Office if you have questions.
AGRONOMY
The purpose of these exhibits is to demonstrate to the public the benefits from the study and application of crop, weed, range and soil sciences to solving problems in management, conservation, sustainability, and environmental protection. For guidelines on specific projects, refer to appropriate project manuals.
DIVISION 750 - FIELD CROPS CLASSES
Rules
See the “4-H General Rules and Regulations - Static Exhibits” section of this fair book for more information and additional resources.
Grain or Plant Exhibits - Classes 1-5:
- A completed Crop Production Worksheet must accompany grain and plant exhibits or it will automatically be lowered one ribbon placing. The worksheet must include the 4-H member’s name and address, county, plant hybrid or variety, plant population, whether crop production was irrigated or dryland, and general information including farm cropping history, soil type and weather effects.
- The worksheet also must include an economic analysis of the project, listing individual expenses and income, on a per acre basis. Other topics to discuss are the selection of variety or hybrid, impacts of tillage and conservation practices, inputs (fuel, fertilizer, irrigation, labor, pesticides, etc.), any observations made during the growing season and what you learned from your crops project. The worksheet counts as 50% of the total when judged.
- Worksheet must be the original work of the individual 4-H member or it will be lowered one ribbon placing. Attach the worksheet to the entry in a clear plastic cover such that it can be read without removing it from the cover. In addition to the worksheet, grain and plant exhibits will be judged on condition, appearance (i.e., disease and insect damage, grain fill), uniformity (size, shape, color, maturity), and quality of exhibit. Refer to Scoresheet SF264. Grain exhibits must be one gallon per sample. Grain exhibits harvested in the fall (e.g., corn or soybeans) may be from the previous year's project and brought in an appropriate sized box/container for display. NEW in 2024: Place in a clear container so it can be viewed and displayed.
- Plant exhibits, with the exception of ears of corn, must be the result of the current year's project. - Corn - 10 ears or 3 stalks (cut at ground level with no roots or soil and bound together).
- Grain Sorghum - 4 stalks (cut at ground level and bound together)
- Soybeans - 6 stalks (cut at ground level and bound together)
- Small grains (oats, barley, wheat, triticale) - sheaf of heads 2" in diameter at top tie with stems about 24" long.
- Other crops (alfalfa, millet, etc.) - sheaf of stems 3" in diameter at top tied with stems cut at ground level or half size small square bale.
SF-G750001 - Corn - (SF264) - (includes yellow, white, pop, waxy, or any other type)
SF-G750002 - Soybeans - (SF264)
SF-G750003 - Oats - (SF264)
SF-G750004 - Wheat - (SF264)
SF-G750005 - Any other crop - (SF264) - (includes grain sorghum, alfalfa, millets, barley, rye, triticale, amaranth, dry beans, sugar beet, mung bean, canola, forage sorghum, safflower, etc.)
DIVISION 750 - FIELD CROP DISPLAYS
Rules
Displays - Classes 6-10:
- The purpose of the display is to tell an educational story to those that view the display.
- The display is a visual representation (pictures, charts, graphs) no larger than 28" wide by 28" tall on plywood or poster board.
- The display should be neatly titled. Make sure to label the display with 4-H member’s name, address, and county on back side. Explain pictures and graphs clearly and concisely.
- Consider creativity and neatness. Each display must have a one-page essay (minimum) explaining why the 4-H member chose the area of display and what they learned from their project. Include any references used.
- The essay should be in a clear plastic cover with the 4-H member’s name outside. If a display does not have an essay, it will automatically be lowered one ribbon placing.
SF-G750006 - Crop Production Display - (SF259) - The purpose of this class is to allow original and creative exhibits that contain educational information about crop production aspects, such as crop scouting, alternative crops, pest management, etc.
SF-G750007 - Crop Technology Display - (SF259) - Display information about aspects of technology used in crop production, such as genetic engineering, crop breeding, GPS, yield mapping, computers, etc.
SF-G750008 - Crop End Use Display - (SF259) - Display information about the final product or end uses for a crop such as food, feed, fuel, or other products (i.e., corn can be processed into livestock feed, ethanol, plastics, etc. or soybeans can be processed into bio-diesel, pet bedding, crayons, oil, etc.). This should not be about the process of crop production but focus on an end product(s).
SF-G750009 - Water or Soil Display - (SF259) - Display information about water or soils, such as how soils are being used for crop production, range conservation, wildlife, or wetland use, or ways to protect or conserve water and soil resources.
SF-G750010 - Career Interview Display - (SF259) - The purpose of this class is to allow 4-H members to investigate a career in agronomy. 4-H members should interview 1 person that works with crops about such topics as, what parts of their job do they enjoy or dislike, why did they choose that career, what was their education, etc. Include a picture of the person interviewed.
CF-G750906 - Field Crops - Other - (SF259) - Exhibit needs to relate to project area. You can add any additional information that you want the judge to know about your exhibit.
DIVISION 750 - SPECIAL AGRONOMY CLASSES
Rules
Special Agronomy Project - 4-H member experience a crop that is grown, was grown or has the potential to be grown in Nebraska by growing it, researching traits of that crop and determine viability of that crop in the part of the state they live. The crop of the year for 2026 is Popcorn. Each year seeds will be mailed to extension offices or ag ed classrooms across the state, as ordered by that location. A different seed will be selected every year. Youth will grow seeds in their garden or pots. Written resources materials will be available for youth, in addition to virtual, live or recorded videos/field trips. Youth will be eligible to enter an exhibit at both the county and/or state fair in the agronomy project area.
SF-G750011 - Special Agronomy Project - Educational Exhibit - (SF259) - Educational exhibit based on what was learned from the project. Present information on no larger than 28” wide by 28” tall on plywood or poster board. The 4-H member’s name, age, and county must be on the back of the poster or report cover. Each display must have a ½ page essay (minimum) explaining why the 4-H member chose the area of display and what they learned from their project. Include references used.
SF-G750012 - Special Agronomy Project - Video Presentation - 4-H member designs a multimedia presentation related to the crop. This could include narration of the growing process, presenting facts about the crop or any other innovative multimedia practices. The presentation should be at least 2 minutes in length and no more than 5 minutes in length, appropriate graphics, sound and either a video clip, animation, or voice over and/or original video clip. Multi-media presentations are to be uploaded to a video streaming application and 4-H member must provide a hard copy QR code for viewing. 4-H members are encouraged to test their codes or link on several devices to check for appropriate PERMISSIONS for PUBLIC VIEWING.
SF-G750013 - Special Agronomy Project (Freshly Harvested Crop) - Plant exhibits must be the result of the current year's project. Depending on the type of crop selected for the current year:
- Corn - 10 ears or 3 stalks (cut at ground level with no roots or soil and bound together)
- Grain Sorghum - 4 stalks (cut at ground level and bound together)
- Soybeans - 6 stalks (cut at ground level and bound together)
- Small grains (oats, barley, wheat, triticale) - sheaf of heads 2" in diameter at top tie with stems about 24" long.
- Other crops (alfalfa, sunflowers, millet, etc.) - sheaf of stems 3" in diameter at top tied with stems cut at ground level.
Supporting documentation (½ to 1-page in length) should include the following:
- Economic Analysis and/or research that supports feasibility of this crop in Nebraska or how the crop has evolved over time.
- Other topics to discuss are past/current commercial production of this crop. This includes: the selection of variety or hybrid, impacts of tillage and conservation practices, inputs (fuel, fertilizer, irrigation, labor, pesticides, etc.), any observations made during the growing season about this crop and what you learned from your crops project. This ½ to 1-page summary counts as 50% of the total when judged.
- In addition to the summary, grain and plant exhibits will be judged on condition, appearance (i.e., disease and insect damage, grain fill), uniformity (size, shape, color, maturity), and quality of exhibit. In addition to the summary, grain and plant exhibits will be judged on condition, appearance (i.e., disease and insect damage, grain fill), uniformity (size, shape, color, maturity), and quality of exhibit.
CF-G750963 - Special Agronomy Project - Other
DIVISION 750 - CROP PRODUCTION PLANT CLASSES
Rules
How to exhibit your crop -
- Corn - 10 ears or 3 stalks (cut at ground level and bound together)
- Grain Sorghum - Ten heads with 10 inch stem, mounted on a 3" board not to exceed 30" long x 24" high or 4 stalks (cut at ground level and bound together)
- Soybeans - 6 stalks (cut at ground level and bound together)
- Small Grains (oats, barley, wheat, triticale) sheaf of heads 2" in diameter at top tie with stems about 24" long.
All plant exhibits must be the result of the current year's work
COUNTY ONLY CLASSES do NOT require a worksheet.
CF-G750900 - Corn (includes yellow, white, pop, waxy or any other type) - 10 ears or 3 stalks
CF-G750901 - Grain Sorghum - 10 heads on board OR 4 stalks bound
CF-G750902 - Soybeans - 6 stalks bound
CF-G750903 - Oats - sheaf of heads
CF-G750904 - Wheat - sheaf of heads
CF-G750905 - Any other crop (includes millets, barley, rye, triticale, amaranths, mung bean, canola, forage sorghum, alfalfa, crambe, safflower) - sheaf of heads - Cannot be one of the above classes.
DIVISION 750 - CROP PRODUCTION - HARVESTED CROP CLASSES
COUNTY ONLY CLASSES do NOT require an essay.
Grain Samples - 2 quart sample entered in a 4 quart ice cream bucket.
Hay - 1 gallon in a self-sealing bag. Fall harvested crops (e.g., soybeans) may be from the previous year’s project. Display containers will not be furnished.
CF-G750950 - Harvested Barley
CF-G750951 - Harvested Oats
CF-G750952 - Harvested Rye
CF-G750953 - Harvested Winter Wheat
CF-G750954 - Harvested Grain Sorghum
CF-G750955 - Harvested Shelled Corn
CF-G750956 - Harvested Soybeans
CF-G750957 - Harvested Alfalfa Hay
CF-G750958 - Harvested Native Hay
CF-G750959 - Harvested Haylage
CF-G750960 - Harvested Silage
CF-G750961 - Harvested Spring Wheat
CF-G750962 - Any Other Harvested Crop
RANGE MANAGEMENT
The purpose of this category is to help 4-H members identify and collect range plants. In addition, participants will learn the basics of range management, and Nebraska's range. Through the creation of range boards 4-H'ers will become more proficient in knowledge of Nebraska's range.
Rules
See the “4-H General Rules and Regulations - Static Exhibits” section of this fair book for more information and additional resources.
- Each exhibit must be properly identified with Unit and Class.
- All plant displays and display covers must be the result of the current year's work.
- Plant identification and lists of appropriate plants in each category (grasses, forbs, shrubs, and grass-like plants) can be found in the Range Judging Handbook and Contest Guide (EC150, Revised July 2024), Common Grasses of Nebraska (EC170), and Common Forbs and Shrubs of Nebraska (EC118).
- The purpose of these exhibits is to demonstrate to the public the benefits from the study and application of crop, weed, range and soil sciences to solving problems in management, conservation, sustainability, and environmental protection.
- For guidelines on specific projects, refer to appropriate project manuals.
DIVISION 330 - RANGE MANAGEMENT CLASSES
Rules
- Books (Classes 1-6): For books, plants must be mounted on sheets that are no larger than 14" wide by 14" high. Plants should be glued rather than taped and the mounts should be protected with a clear cover. A proper plant mount should include root, as well as stem and leaf tissue. Exhibits will be judged based on completeness of plant mount, accuracy of identification, labeling, neatness, and conformation to project requirements. Each completed mount must have the following information in the lower right corner of the mounting sheet: Scientific name (in italic or underlined), with authority - Common name. County of collection. - Collection date. - Collector's name. - Personal collection number, indicating order that plants were collected in your personal collection, - Other information, depending on class selected, i.e., value and importance, life span, growth season, origin, major types of range plants. This information should be typed or printed neatly.
- Displays (Class 7): The purpose of the display is to tell an educational story to those that view the display. The display is a visual representation (pictures, charts, graphs) no larger than 28" by 28" on plywood or poster board. The display should be neatly titled. Make sure to label the display with exhibitor’s name, address, and county on back side.
- Boards (Classes 8-9): Boards should be should no larger than 30" wide by 36" tall. Boards should be adequately labeled.
SF-D330001 - Value and importance for Livestock Forage and Wildlife Habitat and Food Book - (SF260) - A collection of 12 different plants mounts, with 4 classified as high value, 4 as medium value, and 4 as low value for livestock forage, wildlife habitat, or wildlife food. Value and importance classifications can be found in the Range Judging Handbook and Contest Guide Appendix Table 1 (EC150, Revised July 2024) starting on page 42. Plants can consist of any combination of grasses, grass-like plants, forbs, or shrubs. Assemble plant mounts in order of high, medium, and low value and importance. Label each plant mount with its value and importance classifications for each of the three areas: Livestock Forage, Wildlife Habitat, and Wildlife Food.
SF-D330002 - Life Span Book - (SF260) - A collection of 6 perennial plant mounts and 6 annual plant mounts selected from grasses or forbs.
SF-D330003 - Growth Season Book - (SF260) - A collection of 6 cool-season grass mounts and 6 warm-season grass mounts.
SF-D330004 - Origin Book - (SF260) - A collection of 6 native range grasses and 6 introduced grasses. Introduced grasses are not from North America and often used to seed pastures.
SF-D330005 - Major Types of Range Plants Book - (SF260) - A collection plant mounts of 3 grasses, 3 forbs, 3 grass-like and 3 shrubs.
SF-D330006 - Range Plant Collection Book - (SF260) - A collection of 12 range plant mounts with something in common (i.e., poisonous to cattle, or historically used as food by Native Americans, or dye plants, or favorite antelope forage, etc.). Include a short paragraph in the front of the book which describes what the plants have in common and why you have chosen to collect them.
SF-D330007 - Parts of a Range Plant Poster - (SF259) - Mount a range plant on a poster board. Label the key plant parts useful for ID & correct for that plant species such as root, branch, cotyledon, petiole, midrib, stem, node, leaf, leaflet, spikelet, collar, ligule, sheath, internode, culm, crown, flower, etc. Include the plant label in the lower right corner, including the scientific and common name of the plant. 4-H member name and county should be on the back of the poster.
SF-D330008 - Special Study Board - (SF260) - A display of the results of a clipping study, a degree of use study, range site study, etc. A short essay must accompany the display to explain the reason for the study, what was learned, and study results. This should be placed in a sheet cover attached to the board.
SF-D330009 - Junior Rancher Board - (SF260) - This exhibit should include a ranch map with a record book or an appropriate educational display on some phase of rangeland or livestock management. A short essay must accompany the display to explain the purpose of the rancher board, what was learned, etc.
SF-D330900 - Range Management - Other - Exhibit needs to relate to project area. You can add any additional information that you want the judge to know about your exhibit.
WEED SCIENCE
Rules
At least 15 of the specimens must represent this year’s work after the previous county fair to present day. For assistance identifying plants, participants can use the Nebraska Department of Agriculture’s Weeds of Nebraska and the Great Plains Book (1994).
Books - Classes 1-2:
- Plants must be mounted on sheets that are no larger than 14" wide by 14" high. Proper plant mount should include root as well as stem and leaf tissue. Plants should be glued rather than taped and the mounts should be protected with a clear clover.
- Exhibits will be judged based on completeness of plant mount, accuracy of identification, label, neatness, and conformity to exhibit requirements. Refer to Scoresheet SF261.
- Each completed mount must have the following information (see example below) in the lower right corner of the mounting sheet: - Scientific name (in italic or underlined), with authority, - Common name, - County of collection, - Collection date, - Collector’s name, - Personal collection number, indicating the order that plants were collected in your personal collection, - Other information depending on class selected, i.e., noxious, life form. This information should be typed or printed neatly.
Displays - Class 3:
- The purpose of the display is to tell an educational story to those that view the display. The display is a visual representation (pictures, charts, graphs) no larger than 28" by 28" on plywood or poster board. The display should be neatly titled.
- Make sure to label display with 4-H member’s name, address, and county on back side. Explain pictures and graphs clearly and concisely. Refer to Scoresheet SF259.
- Each display must have a one-page essay explaining why the 4-H member’s chose the area of display and what they learned from their project. Include references used.
- The essay should be in a clear plastic cover with the 4-H member's name outside.
DIVISION 751 - WEED SCIENCE CLASSES
SF-G751001 - Weed Identification Book - (SF261) - A collection of a minimum of 15 plant mounts including at least two of the following prohibited noxious weeds (Canada thistle, must thistle, plumeless thistle, saltcedar, leafy spurge, purple loosestrife, diffuse knapweed, spotted knapweed, Japanese knotweed, bohemian knotweed, giant knotweed, sericea lespedeza or phragmites), and at least three weeds that are a problem primarily in lawns.
SF-G751002 - Life SpanBook - A collection of 7 perennials, 1 biennial and 7 annual weeds.
SF-G751003 - Weed Display - The purpose of this class is to allow original and creative exhibits that contain educational information about weeds, such as interesting information about a weed species, the effects of weed control, herbicide resistant weeds, what makes a weed a weed, or uses for weeds.
CF-G751900 - Weed Science - Other - Exhibit needs to relate to project area. You can add any additional information that you want the judge to know about your exhibit.
HORTICULTURE
The purpose of Horticulture is to encourage participants to start and maintain vegetable and herb gardens. In addition, 4-H'ers can participate in planting, growing, and caring for flowers and houseplants. There is also a special gardening project in this category that 4-H'ers can participate in.
DIVISION 770 - FLORICULTURE,
EDUCATIONAL EXHIBITS & HOUSEPLANTS
Rules
See the “4-H General Rules and Regulations - Static Exhibits” section of this fair book for more information and additional resources.
Floriculture (Classes 1-46)
- Classes 1-23: Cut Flower Annuals and Biennials - 5 stems of a single variety (cultivar) unless otherwise noted in parenthesis
- Classes 30-46: Cut Flower Perennials - 5 stems of a single variety (cultivar) unless otherwise noted in parenthesis.
- The cultivar or variety name must be included on all entry cards. If potted container with several cultivar or varieties identify each individually within the pot. Failure to identify the cultivar or variety will drop the entry one ribbon placing. Proper identification is the responsibility of the exhibitor, not the Extension staff or office personnel. For Floriculture, punch hole in the top center of entry tag, use a rubber band to securely attach entry tag to containers. Do not attach with string.
- Special Suggestions for the Floriculture Tags - Due to the fact that the flower tags become wet and unreadable it is suggested that you cover the part of the entry tag that shows your name, exhibitor number and the Department/Division/Class number of your flower exhibit with clear tape. Be sure to fill in the necessary information prior to applying the tape.
- Exhibits entered under an incorrect class number or containing an incorrect number of stems will be dropped one ribbon placing. In classes 23, 45 & 46, do not duplicate entries from the already listed classes
- All 3 or 5 stems of cut flowers should be the same cultivar and color, do not mix cultivars and colors. Containers will not be judged; however, they should be clear glass containers that will not tip over and of adequate size to display blooms. State Fair Exhibits – Clear glass containers ONLY at state fair. Any exhibit not in a clear glass container will be dropped one ribbon placing. NO SCREW ON LIDS OR SCREW ON RINGS AND FLATS MAY BE USED. To hold flowers in place it is suggested to use tin foil or a type of plastic wrap with holes poked into it or frog lids. Containers may not be returned from State Fair.
- Follow the guidelines in 4-H Preparing Cut Flowers for Exhibits 4H227 (revised 2016) when preparing entries for the fair.
DIVISION 770 - CUT FLOWERS - ANNUALS AND BIENNIALS
- 5 stems of a single variety (cultivar) unless otherwise noted in parenthesis.
Classes 1-23 - (SF106)
SF-G770001 - Aster
SF-G770002 - Bachelor Buttons
SF-G770003 - Bells of Ireland
SF-G770004 - Browallia
SF-G770005 - Calendula
SF-G770006 - Celosia (crested or plume) (3 stems)
SF-G770007 - Cosmos
SF-G770008 - Dahlia
SF-G770009 - Dianthus
SF-G770010 - Foxglove
SF-G770011 - Gladiolus (3 stems)
SF-G770012 - Gomphrena
SF-G770013 - Hollyhock (3 stems)
SF-G770014 - Marigold
SF-G770015 - Pansy
SF-G770016 - Petunia
SF-G770017 - Salvia
SF-G770018 - Snapdragon
SF-G770019 - Statice
SF-G770020 - Sunflower (under 3" diameter- 5 stems, 3" or more in diameter- 3 stems)
SF-G770021 - Vinca
SF-G770022 - Zinnia
SF-G770023 - Any other annual or biennial (under 3" diameter - 5 stems or 3" or more in diameter - 3 stems) Do not duplicate entries in classes 1-22.
DIVISION 770 - CUT FLOWERS - PERENNIALS
5 stems of a single variety (cultivar) unless otherwise notes in parenthesis.
Classes 30-46 - (SF106)
SF-G770030 - Achillea/Yarrow
SF-G770031 - Chrysanthemum
SF-G770032 - Coneflowers
SF-G770033 - Coreopsis
SF-G770034 - Daisy
SF-G770035 - Gaillardia
SF-G770036 - Helianthus
SF-G770037 - Hydrangea (3 stems)
SF-G770038 - Liatris (3 stems)
SF-G770039 - Lilies (3 stems) (Not Daylilies)
SF-G770040 - Platycodon
SF-G770041 - Rose (3 stems)
SF-G770042 - Rudbeckia/Black-eyed Susan
SF-G770043 - Sedum
SF-G770044 - Statice
SF-G770045 - Any other Perennial (under 3" diameter - 5 stems, 3" or more in diameter - 3 stems). Do not duplicate entries in classes 30-43.
SF-G770046 - 4-H Flower Garden Collection of 5 different cut flowers. Flowers are to be cut not potted. Each flower in the collection should be exhibited with the number specified for classes 1-45. Display in a box or other holder not more than 18 inches in any dimension. Boxes may not be returned after the State Fair. Do not duplicate entries in classes 1-45 with any in the group collection.
Rules for Educational Exhibits (Classes 50-53)
And Houseplants (Classes 60-66)
- Container Grown Houseplants: The choice of container and soil quality will be considered in judging. Each houseplant must be identified individually (cultivar/variety) by listing the names on the entry tag or on a card attached to the container. Houseplants should be grown in the display container for a minimum of six weeks. Plants grown as houseplants must be used. NebGuide G2205 “Guide to Growing Houseplants” and NebGuide G837 “Guide to Selecting Houseplants” includes a listing of common houseplants. Containers of annual flowers or annual plants (i.e., petunias, geraniums, impatiens) will be disqualified and will not be judged.
- Entries in Classes 60-66 must have been designed and planted by the 4-H member.
- Any container plant, (flowering or foliage potted houseplants, dish gardens, fairy or miniature gardens, desert gardens, or terrariums) shall be in containers no larger than 12 inches (use inside opening measurement) in any dimension of length or width. No combination of pots may be used. All potted plants are to be in a one pot container. Any container grown plant in Classes 60-66 that does not follow these guidelines will be dropped one ribbon placing.
- Classes 60-65 exhibitors must have and provide a saucer to catch drainage water. The
4-H members name, age, county, and years in the project(s) must be on the bottom or back of the container and saucer.
DIVISION 770 - EDUCATIONAL EXHIBITS
SF-G770050 - Flower Notebook - (SF100) - Exhibit a notebook containing pictures of flowers grown in Nebraska. There must be at least 10 different species of annuals and/or biennials and 10 different species of perennials hardy to Nebraska. Bulbs may be included in a separate section. 4-H members may show more than one cultivar of the same species, but they will only count as one species. The notebook must be the result of the current year’s work. Pictures from garden catalogs, hand drawn pictures, or photographs may be used. Each species/cultivar must be labeled with the correct common name and scientific name; the height and spread of the plant and the growing conditions (for example needs full sun and dry sandy soil) the species prefers. In addition to this information, bulbs should also be labeled as spring or summer flowering. Give proper credit by listing the sources of pictures information used. The 4-H member’s name, age, county, and years in the project(s) must be on the back of the notebook.
SF-G770051 - Flower Garden Promotion Poster – (SF103) - Individual poster promoting flower gardening, size 14" x 22" either vertical or horizontal arrangement. Poster may be in any medium: watercolor, ink, crayon, etc. as long as it is not 3-dimensional. Posters using copyrighted material will not be accepted. Entry card must be stapled to the upper right hand corner. The 4-H member’s name, age, county, and years in the project(s) must be on the back of the poster.
SF-G770052 - Educational Flower Garden Poster – (SF104) - Prepare a poster 14" x 22" x 2" (3-dimensional if needed) either vertical or horizontal arrangement illustrating a skill or project you have done or learned about in a 4-H flowers or houseplant project. One might show a special technique used or equipment incorporated in the garden. Refer to 4-H horticultural manuals but use our own creativity. Entry card must be stapled to the upper right hand corner. The 4-H member’s name, age, county, and years in the project(s) must be on the back of the poster.
SF-G770053 - Flower Gardening History Interview – (SF105) - Neatly handwritten or typed account of a gardening history interview whose flower garden has inspired you. Maximum of 4 pages of text and 2 pages of pictures (include 1 picture of the person you interviewed) of their flower garden if the individual is still gardening. Protect with a clear report cover. The 4-H member’s name, age, county, and years in the project(s) must be on the back of the report cover or notebook.
DIVISION 770 - HOUSEPLANTS
SF-G770060 - Flowering Potted Houseplant(s) - (SF107) - that are blooming for exhibition. A container may have one or more houseplants in the container. Label with the name for each plant. Non-blooming plants will be disqualified.
SF-G770061 - Foliage Potted Houseplant– (SF107) – One variety of tropical or cacti or succulent plant.
SF-G770062 - Hanging Basket - (SF107) - of flowering and/or foliage houseplants. A container may have one or more houseplants in the container. Label with the name for each plant.
SF-G770063 - Dish Garden - (SF107) - an open/shallow container featuring a variety of houseplants excluding cacti and succulents. Label with the name of each plant.
SF-G770064 - Fairy or Miniature Garden - (SF107) - A miniature “scene” contained in an open container and featuring miniature or small, slow growing houseplants. The garden needs to have an imaginative theme and miniature accessories, i.e., bench, fence made from tiny twigs, small shell for a bathtub, etc. Label with the name for each plant.
SF-G770065 - Desert Garden - (SF107) - open/shallow container featuring a variety of cacti and/or succulents grown as houseplants. Label with the name for each plant.
SF-G770066 - Terrarium - (SF107) - a transparent container - partially or completely enclosed; sealed or unsealed. Label with the name for each plant.
DIVISION 770 - CONTAINER GROWN PLANTS
CF-G770900 - Single or Mixed Potted Plants - flowering and/or non-flowering potted plants. Label name for each plant. Flowering plants must be blooming for exhibition (Non-blooming flowering plants will be disqualified).
DIVISION 773 - VEGETABLES, HERBS, FRUITS
AND EDUCATIONAL EXHIBIT, & SPECIAL GARDEN PROJECT CLASSES
Rules
- The cultivar or variety name must be included on all entry cards. Failure to identify the cultivar or variety will drop the entry one ribbon placing. Proper identification is the responsibility of the exhibitor, not the Extension staff or office personnel. Exhibits entered under an incorrect class number or containing an incorrect number of vegetables will be dropped one ribbon placing. In classes 252, 255, 268, 269, 285 and 286 do not duplicate entries from any of the other classes or entry will be dropped one ribbon placing. For example: 4-H members with two cultivars or varieties of red tomatoes can only enter the red tomatoes class and cannot enter the other cultivar or variety in any other vegetable class. Score Sheet SF108.
- Follow the guidelines in Selecting and Preparing Vegetables, Herbs and Fruits for Exhibit 4H226 (revised 2022) when preparing entries for the fair.
- Herbs (Classes 60-69) Herbs will be judged using the same general criteria used for vegetables. Those grown mainly for their seed, such as dill and caraway, should be exhibited on a plate. Those grown for their leaves such as basil, parsley, etc. should be exhibited in a CLEAR GLASS CONTAINER of water (no plastic containers at State Fair). Any exhibit not in a clear glass container will be dropped one ribbon placing. NO SCREW ON LIDS OR SCREW ON RINGS AND FLATS MAY BE USED. To hold herb leaves in place it is suggested to use tin foil or a type of plastic wrap with holes poked into it or frog lids. Containers may not be returned from State Fair. Potted herb plants will be disqualified and will not be judged. Score Sheet SF108.
- Fruits (Classes 80-86) Fruits will be judged using the same general criteria used for vegetables. Fruit will be judged for the stage of maturity normal for that season and growing location. Emphasis will be placed on how well fruit approaches market quality. Score Sheet SF108.
DIVISION 773 - VEGETABLE CLASSES
Classes 1-56 – (SF108)
Vegetable, Number’s to Exhibit
SF-G773201 - Lima Beans - 12
SF-G773202 - Snap Beans -12
SF-G773203 - Wax Beans - 12
SF-G773204 - Beets - 5
SF-G773205 - Broccoli - 2
SF-G773206 - Brussel Sprouts - 12
SF-G773207 - Green Cabbage - 2
SF-G773208 - Red Cabbage - 2
SF-G773209 - Carrots - 5
SF-G773210 - Cauliflower - 2
SF-G773211 - Slicing Cucumbers - 2
SF-G773212 - Pickling Cucumbers - 5
SF-G773213 - Eggplant - 2
SF-G773214 - Kohlrabi - 5
SF-G773215 - Muskmelon/Cantaloupe - 2
SF-G773216 - Okra - 5
SF-G773217 - Yellow Onions - 5
SF-G773218 - Red Onions - 5
SF-G773219 - White Onions - 5
SF-G773220 - Parsnips - 5
SF-G773221 - Bell Peppers - 5
SF-G773222 - Sweet (Non-Bell) Peppers - 5
SF-G773223 - Jalapeño Peppers - 5
SF-G773224 - Hot (Non-Jalapeño) Peppers - 5
SF-G773225 - White Potatoes - 5
SF-G773226 - Red Potatoes - 5
SF-G773227 - Russet Potatoes - 5
SF-G773228 - Other Potatoes - 5
SF-G773229 - Pumpkin - 2
SF-G773230 - Miniature Pumpkin (Jack Be Little type) - 5
SF-G773231 - Radish - 5
SF-G773232 - Rhubarb - 5
SF-G773233 - Rutabaga - 2
SF-G773234 - Green Summer Squash - 2
SF-G773235 - Yellow Summer Squash - 2
SF-G773236 - White Summer Squash - 2
SF-G773237 - Acorn Squash - 2
SF-G773238 - Butternut Squash - 2
SF-G773239 - Buttercup Squash - 2
SF-G773240 - Other Winter Squash - 2
SF-G773241 - Sweet Corn (in husks) - 5
SF-G773242 - Swiss Chard - 5
SF-G773243 - Red Tomatoes (2" or more in diameter) - 5
SF-G773244 - Roma or Sauce type Tomatoes - 5
SF-G773245 - Salad Tomatoes - (under 2" diameter) - 12
SF-G773246 - Yellow Tomatoes (2"or more in diameter) - 5
SF-G773247 - Turnips - 5
SF-G773248 - Watermelon - 2
SF-G773249 - Dry Edible Beans - 1 Pint
SF-G773250 - Gourds, Mixed Type - 5
SF-G773251 - Gourds, Single Variety - 5
SF-G773252 - Any Other Vegetable - 2, 5 or 12 - (Do Not Duplicate Entries In Classes 201-251) that doesn’t fit in any other class. For County Only Kale - 5 stems/leaves.
SF-G773255 - 4-H Vegetable Garden Collection of five kinds of vegetables. Display Garden Collection in a box not more than 24" in any dimension. Boxes may not be returned from State Fair. Showmanship will be considered in judging, but plastic grass, cotton, figurines, etc. should not be used in exhibit boxes. Each vegetable in the collection should be exhibited with the number specified for individual class (201-252). Do not duplicate entries in classes 201-252 with any in the group collection.
SF-G773256 - 4-H Cultivar Vegetable Collection - Vegetables entered in the collection are 5 cultivars from a single exhibit: for example, 5 cultivars of all types of peppers or squash or onions or tomatoes, etc. Display in a box not more than 24" in any dimension. Boxes may not be returned from the State Fair. Showmanship will be considered in judging; but plastic grass, cotton, figurines, etc. should not be used in exhibit boxes. Each vegetable in the collection should be exhibited with the number specified for individual classes (201- 252).
CF-G773900 - Potted Patio Garden Plant(s) - Any vegetable or fruit grown in a pot.
DIVISION 773 - HERB CLASSES
Classes 60-69 – (SF108)
SF-G773260 - Basil - 5
SF-G773261 - Dill (dry) - 5
SF-G773262 - Garlic (bulbs) - 5
SF-G773263 - Mint - 5
SF-G773264 - Oregano - 5
SF-G773265 - Parsley - 5
SF-G773266 - Sage - 5
SF-G773267 - Thyme - 5
SF-G773268 - Any Other Herb - 5 (do not duplicate entries in classes 260-267).
SF-G773269 - 4-H Herb Garden Display of 5 different cut herbs. Herbs are to be cut not potted. Displayed in a box or other holder not more than 18" in any dimension. Boxes may not be returned from State Fair. Each herb in the collection should be exhibited with the number specified for classes 260-268. Do not duplicate entries in classes 260-268 with any in the group collection.
DIVISION 773 - FRUIT CLASSES
Classes 80-86 - (SF108)
SF-G773280 - Strawberries (everbearers) - 1 Pint
SF-G773281 - Grapes - 2 Bunches
SF-G772282 - Apples - 5
SF-G773283 - Pears - 5
SF-G773284 - Wild Plums - 1 Pint
SF-G773285 - Other Small Fruit or Berries - 1 Pint (do not duplicate entries in classes 280-284)
SF-G773286 - Other Fruits OR Nuts - 5 (do not duplicate entries in classes 280-284)
DIVISION 773 - EDUCATIONAL EXHIBITS
SF-G773290 - Garden Promotion Poster - (SF103) - Individual poster promoting vegetables or herb gardening, size 14" x 22", -either vertical or horizontal arrangement. Poster may be in any medium so long as they are not 3- dimensional. Posters using copyrighted material WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED. Entry card must be stapled to the upper right hand corner. The 4-H member’s name, age, full address, county, and years in the project(s) must be on the back of the poster.
SF-G773291 - Educational Vegetable or Herb Garden Poster - (SF104) - Prepare a poster 14" x 22" x 2" (3-dimensional if needed) either vertical or horizontal arrangement illustrating a skill or project the 4-H’er has done or learned about in a 4-H vegetable gardening project. One might show a special technique used or equipment incorporated in the garden (e.g. drip irrigation system, composting, or special techniques learned). Refer to 4-H horticulture project manuals but use your own creativity. Entry card must be stapled to the upper right hand corner. The 4-H member’s name, age, full address, county, and years in the project(s) must be on the back of the poster.
SF-G773292 - Vegetable and/or Herb Gardening History Interview - (SF105) - Neatly handwritten or typed account of a gardening history interview of someone whose vegetable or herb garden has inspired you. Maximum of four pages of text and 2 pages of pictures (include1 picture of the person you interviewed) of their garden if the individual is still gardening. Protect with a clear report cover. The 4-H member’s full name, age, full address, county, and years in the project(s) must be on the back of the report cover.
SF-G773293 - Vegetable Seed Display - (SF101) - Each display must include seeds representing the following families: Cucurbit, Brassica (cabbage), Solanaceous (nightshade), and Legume (pea) families plus representatives from 5 other families. Group the seeds by family and type. Glue seeds or otherwise fasten clean containers of seeds to a board or poster mat board no larger than 22" x 24". Label each group and each individual vegetable type with the common and scientific names. Use only one variety or cultivar of each vegetable, except for beans where several examples of beans may be shown. Attach a card to the back of the display explaining why and how it is important to know which vegetables are related and cite references on where the scientific name information was found. The 4-H member’s name, age, full address, county, and years in the project(s) must be on the back of the display. Information on vegetable family members can be obtained from your extension office.
SF-G773294 - World of Vegetables Notebook - (SF102) - Choose a favorite foreign cuisine and learn what vegetables and/or herbs are common to it (e.g., Mexican, African, Chinese, Italian, etc.). Include a report telling about a minimum of 5 vegetables and/or herbs from each country chosen. Include the scientific and common names; pictures of the plants from your garden or seed catalogs; tell how they are grown; and how the foods are used. Also list a source for buying the seed or plants. Favorite recipes using some or all of the vegetables described may be included. Protect in a clear report cover or small 3-ring notebook. Give proper credit by listing the source of pictures and information used. The 4-H member’s name, age, full address, county, and years in the gardening project(s) must be on the back of the report cover or notebook.
DIVISION 775 - SPECIAL GARDEN PROJECT
Exhibits must be from only the special seeds/plants given out by the Extension Office for this project. The seeds/plants for this project will change in variety and type from year to year. The Special Gardening Project for 2026 is focused on the Alumia Vanilla Cream Marigold. More information can be found at https://4h.unl.edu/special-garden-project.
SF-G775001 - Special Garden Project – (SF109) - Educational exhibit based on what was learned from the project. Present information on a poster 14" X 22" either vertical or horizontal arrangement or in a clear plastic report cover. The 4-H member’s name, age, full address, and county must be on the back of the poster or report cover.
SF-G775002 - Special Garden Project Fresh Cut Flowers or Harvested Vegetables – (SF109) - The current year's Special Gardening Project fresh cut flowers, herbs or harvested vegetables should be entered in this class. Refer to classes 1-45 for quantity to exhibit if Special Gardening Project is a fresh cut flower (SF106). Refer to classes 201-252 for quantity to exhibit if Special Gardening Project is a vegetable (SF108). Flowers and herbs must be cut, not potted.
CF-G775900- Special Garden Project - Other
- Resources for Agronomy and Horticulture
- Scoresheets, Forms, and Contest Study Materials
- Horticulture/Floriculture Exhibitors - For the number of tags that you need . . . you will create that number of generic entries in Fairwire. You will receive the Generic Floriculture/Horticulture Tags as you have done in the past. You will need to fill in the class number; class name; and variety (cultivar) name on the printed tag that you receive. See this Sample Tag Sheet for more information.
- On Entry Day of County Fair, the rest of the information will be gathered when you check in. Please bring a list of the classes that you will be entering in. Here is a Horticulture/Floriculture Entry Form for you to list what you actually brought to fair. Give this completed form to the 4-H Staff. (Please do this as soon as possible so that staff can make the changes in the computer.)
- Additional Resources for Agronomy and Horticulture Resources
- Additional Resources for Range Management