Society for Japanese Iris Convention arriving at the host gardens in Portland, Oregon, June 24 and 25, 2011 found that the bloom had been delayed by a cold spring. Mt Pleasant Iris Farm keeping weather records for several decades stated that this was the latest bloom season experienced. Notice the earlier Tall Bearded iris in the background are still in bloom.
The Tall Bearded iris at Mt Pleasant Iris Farm, Washougal, Washington were in peak bloom one full month later than usual.
Wildwood Gardens in Molalla, Oregon found themselves also having very little bloom on the Japanese Iris.
Being granted a slightly warmer setting, the third and last host garden Aitken’s Salmon Creek Gardens, Vancouver Washington offered more bloom to enjoy.
Spuria iris another late-season iris at Aitken’s Salmon Creek Gardens were showing good bloom.
Even when the Japanese Iris and the new hybrid Pseudatas were not in full bloom we could still evaluate the plants for growth and vigor.
The many faces of a convention having fun, it is all about meeting old friends, making new, and enjoying the gardens.
After touring the gardens the Awards Dinner is always a fun time, our hosts from the three gardens.
The special people that sent in their plants for all to see and evaluate.
The Payne Award with past listed winners from 1992 and prior was present for all to admire.
A days end Sue Jo enjoying the gardens at Mt Pleasant Iris Farm
All are welcome to these events, with gardens to explore, new plants to find, and new garden friends to meet. Won’t you join us?