The West Chicago Garden Club

By Dee Soustek

Went to the Kruse Garden to take a short walk, to see what was happening.  I was greeted by a small patch of beautiful, vibrant, sunshine yellow flowers of the winter aconite (Eranthus hyemalis).  I was surprised to learn that aconite is actually a tuber and not a bulb.  These tubers should be planted in the fall the same time you plant your other spring bulbs.  Aconite for me, is the harbinger of Spring.  It has such a pop of color and it is so cheerful.  I hope the Kruse patch of aconite spreads or we add another clump or two.  

Then there were the Hellebores that were starting to bloom. One of the earliest flowers to bloom.  It’s always fun to see this early bloomer. Tried to take a picture but the downward facing flowers were not cooperating.  The new varieties are showing more outward facing blooms, it may be worth a try for this old favorite. 

There were many bulbs pushing their way up; tulips, daffodils, hyacinth, and alliums to name a few.  But there was a clump of beautiful orange/gold crocus that grabbed my attention, so nice with the sun spotlighting their presence.  It sure is a cute little clump, love the color. 

Hope you enjoyed the short visit to Kruse and I encourage you to stop by and see what else is ready to bloom.

Anticipation by Kerry Perry

“Every gardener knows that under the cloak of winter lies a miracle … a seed waiting to sprout, a bulb opening to the light, a bud straining to unfurl.  And the anticipation nurtures our dream.” –  Barbara Winkler

It’s February and things are awakening in the Kruse garden. Buds are appearing on the Cornelia Cherry  Dogwood, Lilac, Dawn Redwood and Viburnum.

Get your gardening gloves and tools ready for spring cleanup.  Please join us for fun, learning and  comradery.