Oregon Garden, Part II

One of the specialty gardens we really enjoyed was the Conifer Garden, an extensive collection of coniferous trees and shrubs. 

Most were in bloom or putting on their new growth, which adds special interest and beauty.

 This is a conifer in bloom.  This is a pollen factory!

Scattered through this section is a collection of Pacific Coast Iris, which are natives here in Oregon.

Another section of gardens is a created chain of wetlands.  Ponds were dug progressively down the hill.  Earthen dams with pathways separate them.  Waste water from a sewage treatment plant is filtered through these ponds, creating a green habitat, where "green" has a double meaning. This water is then also used to irrigate the gardens and provide source water for the other water features.

But for me the best part was the bird songs, especially the red wing blackbird.

I'm sure there are giant frogs here too, but maybe not quite this big. (Click on photo)

This was a lovely way to spend a half of a day.  We could have spent more time.  But we'll come back.  Gardens have seasons, and can be enjoyed over and over again.

To find out more, go here: www.oregongarden.org