Now that we are into April, the garden begins to change almost daily with new blooms opening with every drop of sunshine. Fields of tulips are at their peak now, and next month will be the iris gardens. One of the largest is Schreiner’s Iris Garden on the northern edge of Salem, Oregon.
As you drive along I-5 freeway in May, you will pass by some of their fields blooming in a wide variety of colors. The fun of growing bearded iris is that they grow in almost every color of the rainbow, and many have been hybridized by Schreiner’s themselves. Whether you love baby pinks, sunny yellows, rich purples, or fascinating combinations, you can find what you need at Schreiner’s. They have been a mail-order source for iris since 1925. Their free catalog is a source of temptation during the gray days of winter.
Just like a watercolor painting
Their display garden is normally open during the blooming season – usually Mother’s Day weekend until the end of May. Stroll their beautiful gardens – like walking directly into a watercolor painting by Monet – filled with a wide variety of perennials and shrubs to marry with the colors of their bearded iris. You can order your favorites to plant in your own garden next season, or take freshly cut flowers home with you. There is a small entrance fee of $5 per car to visit. See further details and links at: Schreiner’s Iris Garden
Covid19 Virus
With the Covid19 virus this spring, and rules changing almost daily, we will have to forgo the annual outings to gardens to enjoy the blooms. Check with any garden’s website before you plan to head out to verify gardens are open. If they are open, wear a mask, keep a minimum of 6 feet between other visitors, and avoid touching signs, restrooms, tent poles, etc. Schreiner’s Gardens has chosen to keep their display garden closed this season, but will be posting daily photos of their gardens so you can virtually visit via Facebook and Instagram. Also consider requesting a catalog to peruse at home instead this year. For information: Schreiner’s Iris Garden
