Do you enjoy flowers and gardens?  If so, then the next event in the Amana Colonies is for you!

Colonies in Bloom begins tomorrow – Saturday, June 24th.  This is the 3rd year for this event. It is not a huge event like Oktoberfest, but is a leisurely self-guided viewing of the gardens and yards throughout the Amana Colonies.  This weekend is the “unofficial”  start for those interested in participating to have their yards and gardens “show” ready.  In my experience, most gardeners have their gardens “under construction” all summer.

I move my hostas around frequently and begin new garden spaces.  Recently I moved this large hosta from up close to our building to “center stage” in a yard where I will continue to add hostas until the whole area is full of hostas.

 

 

This year there are 8 private gardens open for viewing and you are allowed to go in the yard. These garden locations are listed on a map, available at the Visitor Center.  However as you drive around the 7 villages I am sure you will see many other gardens that are lovely to see, keep in mind – road side gardens are easily viewed, but you are not allowed in the private yards unless you happen to see the owners out and ask permission.

While you might not think of this as something of interest to look at, right now at Zuber’s and homes around the Colonies, our grapevines are “blooming” with new grapes.  

 

Also blooming at Zuber’s is a rose bush that was Brian’s mom’s. We have moved this bush with us 3 times.  It now sits center focus in a garden on the street side of Zuber’s.

 

 

 

 

By the end of Colonies in Bloom, you will want to be sure and drive by the Lily Lake which is located between Amana and Middle Amana.  The lilies cover the lake and it is a sight to behold!