As the old adage goes, March comes in like a lion and out like a lamb. Although we didn’t have a particularly harsh winter here, I’m really looking forward to putting cold weather in the rear window and moving into Spring, when the natural world of the East End wakes up from its slumber and starts showing off.
The first sure sign that Spring has arrived for me, is when I spot bunches of bright yellow daffodils in bloom in the garden and along the local roads. One of the earliest and most iconic of Spring flowers to bloom after the winter frost, daffodils also serve as a reminder to East Enders that Memorial Day is right around the corner!
Once the daffodils arrive, it won’t be long before fragrant hyacinths, tulips, pansies, and forsythia start blooming. Colorful Spring flowers and flowering shrubs are said to symbolize renewal, resilience, and new beginnings—and we could all use a little dose of that. Here are some ideas for making the most of the Spring flower season:
PLANT BUTTERFLY ATTRACTORS
FLOWERY FIELD TRIPS | Get inspired and soak up the vibrant beauty of blooms with a day trip to one of these flower-focused destinations:
20th Annual Orchid Show at NY Botanical Garden | through April 23
Orchid lovers will love this stunning exhibit of thousands of Asian orchids designed this year by artist LilyKwong, now on view at the New York Botanical Garden. Titled “Natural Heritage” and inspired by the artist’s connection to the natural world, the immersive, lush, and fantastical installations are inspired by ancient Chinese garden design. More Info.
Macy’s Flower Show | March 26 - April 10
Brightly colored floral arrangements and exotic flowers from around the world will be on exhibit at Macy’sHerald Square in NYC at their annual flower show. Billed as a “breathtaking floral extravaganza,” the show is free and open to the public during regular store hours. More Info.
WILDFLOWERS ARE EASY AND HARDY
Long Island Tulip Festival | opens in AprilMillions of colorful tulips of many varieties will be on display beginning in April at the 15-acre Waterdrinker Family Farm & Garden in Manorville. Child and pet friendly with games and attractions for the little ones, this is a great spot for a springtime family outing—and amateur and professional photographers alike will love the colorful setting. More Info.
JOIN A GARDENING CLUB | Love flowers and floral design? Join the club! There are three active chapters of the Garden Club of America, right here on the East End. Visit their websites to learn more about their activities and membership:
- The Garden Club of East Hampton
- The Southampton Garden Club
- Westhampton Garden Club
