Honeywood (A. J. Porter) Heritage Nursery held its annual Lilies in Bloom event July 18.
The warm sunny weather attracted over 500 people to the heritage site to view thousands of lilies in the peak of bloom season with many tourists travelling from outside the immediate area.
The lily fields were the focus of activity as hundreds of visitors strolled through the gardens and fields of blooming lilies identifying and recording the varieties they wished to purchase.
A large tent was erected and was the place of leisure and socializing as musical entertainment was provided by many local musicians. Artisans displayed their wares along the perimeter of the tented area offering spectators an opportunity to witness some of Saskatchewan's finest artistic talent in the forms of wood turning, antler sculptures, and home-made jewellery from antlers, as well as numerous displays. Renowned Canadian artist Glen Scrimshaw was in attendance to provide support for the site. His recent art release of the limited edition Honeywood print was sold out in a few short months with proceeds donated to the registered charitable organization.
"Glen has been so supportive of our efforts," commented Judy Harley, site manager.
Before leaving the grounds, Scrimshaw stopped by the lily field to capture more still life photographs of the lilies in bloom.
The original log cabin was utilized to prepare and serve food. Hungry guests had a choice of hamburgers, salads, and a choice of delicious freshly made rhubarb or apple crisp with ice cream. A small table erected on the north side of the building offered ice cream cones, popcorn and beverages.
Numerous live floral arrangements were sold contributing to the success of the event.
Visitors also have the opportunity to enjoy various specialty flowerbeds located throughout the nursery such as the Memorial Garden offering a display of the Porter Lily and fruit introductions, the Allan Daku Garden honouring his many years of dedicated service with selections planted by the Walter Willoughby Horticultural Society, Winnie's Annual Flower Bed as a tribute to Mrs. Porter, the apecies lily bed planted in 2006 and the Canadian Breeders Lily garden (2008) consisting of lily varieties sold throughout the years, and Canadian Breeders Lily garden featuring the lily first sent out in 1955.
The staff and volunteers of the historic site are appreciative of the support received by the general public as more and more people travel great distances to see the attraction.
Honeywood Heritage Nursery is always a great place to visit. The distinct seasonal changes provide an opportunity for gardening and floral enthusiasts to enjoy the bountiful crops, the photographer to capture hundreds of colourful scenic images and nature lovers to enjoy a stroll through the grounds. Honeywood is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. until September Labour Day weekend. Touch of Autumn will be the next featured event at Honeywood Sept. 19.
