As a Master Gardener, I am expected to perform a minimum of 30 hours of garden-related volunteer work each year. There are many ways to do this, but my absolute favorite way is to join with a wonderful group of very dedicated and generous volunteers who work in the English Walled Garden at the Chicago Botanic Gardens. Not only are my fellow volunteers great company, but the horticulturists always greet their volunteers with an enthusiastic smile, and say good bye to them with a hearty "thank you!" Even when the work we are given is back-breaking, it's easy to pass the hours there, with great company and a beautiful setting. Yesterday was no exception.
It's hard to believe that it snowed this past Monday evening. Or that the snow stuck around all day on Tuesday. It sure didn't feel like spring! But all that changed on Thursday morning. Under blue skies and a warm sun, we joined together to complete a monumental annual task--planting the English Oak Meadow with Icelandic Poppies. "Meadow" is a term that may be used rather loosely, for, in this case, the majority of the meadow is on about a 30 degree incline, which I might more properly term "Hillside." But, as the term "meadow" has such a charming ring to it, I understand the choice. At any rate, when I arrived, there were flats and flats of poppies in 4" pots awaiting us. Soil knives and kneelers in hand, we ascended the steep banks of the meadow and we planted almost 6,000 poppies!!
These poppies are a beloved tradition at the garden, and will be enjoyed by thousands of people in the coming weeks. After which we will ascend the meadow once more to plant a summer display. In between now and then, I am looking forward to showing up at my appointed time (Thursday mornings, 'til noon--stop in and say hi!), and helping make spring happen. Can't wait!
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