Just got in from a quick walk along the March Bank at Winterthur. The blue of Glory-of-the-Snow (Chionodoxa lucilliae) and Siberian Squill (Scilla sibirica) is coming along nicely. There is much more blue than I expected with this week’s chilly temperatures. I should never try to second-guess this -or any- garden!
Today, it’s about 55 degrees with bright sun and the flowers are fully open. We’re on the leading edge of the “blue phase” of the March Bank. Over the next week or so, it will become more intensely saturated.
My favorite views in late March are daffodil “clouds” as the dark stubble of leaves emerge on the hillsides, reminding me of a 5 o’clock shadow. Doesn’t sound pretty, does it? It’s like my dad’s scratchy beard mixed with the promise of spring.
This afternoon I encountered two couples walking in the garden. The first woman stated that she and her husband had just come up with a new life plan. They are going to take an afternoon off a week to have lunch at Winterthur and walk in the garden. A worthy idea for enjoying life to the fullest, don’t you think?
I met the second couple walking near the greenhouses and asked if they had seen the March Bank. Oh yes, they said with glee. The woman added that today is their 48th wedding anniversary; they celebrated by enjoying the garden from their favorite bench. The March Bank seems to be blooming just for them!
Thanks Karen for your reply to my earlier post about the progress of the Blue. I’m keeping my eye on the weather and your posts and will come on a favorable day..I’m hoping the sunny forecast for Monday 3/30 holds up. Since it is 3 hours (each way!), your on-the-scene input is really, really helpful.
Carolyn
Carolyn, thanks for your interest in the Winterthur Garden. I’m always happy for a reason to leave my windowless office and take a look for your benefit! Today, it’s about 62 degrees and party sunny and the March Bank is vividly blue. If you come early next week, it should be at its peak. We’re closed on Mondays, but it looks like Tuesday 3/31 would be wonderful – 60 degrees and party sunny. Bring a camera – and let me know how your visit goes. Enjoy!
Karen, Thank you thank you thank you! I was going to come Monday. Yikes! Now, we’re coming up Monday evening to visit on Tuesday. Yippee!!!