School’s out, the sun is shining, and we have permission to be lazy and enjoy all that surrounds us during this season. At the Lake Lure Flowering Bridge, summer always promises a busy time, and there is certainly lots going on that you won’t want to miss.
Rose Garden Makeover – Roses are often considered the jewel of the garden, and our roses are no exception. While some of our older roses in other parts of the garden bloom in early summer, many of our newer roses are now in full bloom and will delight you with their colorful petals and sweet fragrances.
The rose garden, like the other 11 raised gardens on the Bridge, was planted in April 2013. It thrived in the rich soil and nonstop sunshine, so much so that by 2020 it had become overgrown. The plants in front were so tall, they shaded and blocked the view of the roses behind them.
Planning a reconfiguration of the rose garden began in 2021, and in spring of 2022, volunteer Alice Garrard got to work. She moved a couple of ailing plants from the back of the bed into other gardens to recuperate. She then planted 10 low-growing ground cover roses in the front of the bed and a new climbing rose and clematis at the central trellis. Make sure to stop by the rose garden when you visit. You will often find Alice tending this garden and she’s always ready to answer your rose gardening questions.
Say it With A Brick – 2023 is a big year for the Bridge because we are celebrating its 10th Anniversary. If you are looking for a special item to help commemorate this anniversary, consider buying a commemorative brick. Not only will you help sustain the Bridge and its gardens, you will also be connecting with this unique attraction.
Now through July 31, receive an exclusive discount of 20% when buying a commemorative brick. That means the cost is only $160 during this promotion! These bricks line the pathways through the gardens and are a lasting tribute for celebrating a milestone or special person. Please visit www.LLFB.org for more information; bricks must be ordered and paid for by July 31 to take advantage of the special pricing. INSERT PICTURE OF BRICK. CAPTION: Bricks bought during this special promotion will include a “shooting star” symbol commemorating the 10th Anniversary.
More Summer Fun!
Every Season is a Fairy Season – Now through September 5
One of the most popular summer features has returned. Make plans to visit and see all the fairy gardens, which highlight every season of the year. Look closely and talk softly, as fairies can be very shy and may be hiding!
Education News and Upcoming Class
We are very excited to welcome John Vining to our Education Team. With more than 30 years of horticultural experience, John brings a wealth of knowledge to this team, our volunteers, and visitors. And he loves to share it! John is a retired Extension Agent for Polk County and says that his greatest strength is in ornamental plants, natives, and invasive plant species.
Sun Printing on Fabrics
July 25, starting at 10 am at the Welcome Terrace on the Bridge
Amy Wald will be teaching how to use botanicals from your garden to print them onto a silk scarf. There is a participation fee of $7, and you will take home your completed scarf. The class is free to those who want to observe only. Contact Debbie Clark to reserve your spot today at dcgardensinbloom@aol.com. Class size is limited to 25 participants. In case of inclement weather, this class will be moved to the Lake Lure Town Hall.
