Deadhead, deadhead, deadhead. That's the best thing you can do to keep any plant growing and looking it's best. If you haven't fertilized do so a week before the show, so you have nice green plants. With hanging baskets trim out any branches that have bare spots, but don't trim too much--two weeks is not a lot of time for them to put out new growth.

If you are cutting stems of flowers for show, gather them in the morning when they are plump from the cooler night. Choose one that has nice looking leaves as well as the flower. Cut the stem longer than you'd like, then trim the stem again inside under running water, and put it immediately in your vase of water. Make sure there are no leaves in the water.

Just my opinion as I've never been in a flower show, but it's what I would do if I were

I sure wouldn't fertilize as it could affect the condition of the flowers.

Oops! I forgot to add the attached link. It's one of many that address the subject of preparing flowers and plants for competition. Good luck to you.

You might want to call your local extension office to see if they might have information, as well. Know any garden club members?

Here is a link that might be useful: Click here

Hey, thanks oilpainter and rhizo for your input. Some of my flowers are looking good, others need to step up their game in the next week and a half. I'm trying to assist in that game! Thanks again.