April 23, 2006 - 5:00pm
A colourful display of rhododendrons will be the feature attraction at the annual Rhododendron Days at Malaspina University-College Milner Gardens and Woodland May 4 to 14.
"Rhododendron Days is one of the many events that take place at the garden throughout the year," said Toni O'Keefe, Malaspina's Director of Media Relations & Marketing. "May is the perfect time for members of the public to visit the garden and enjoy the hundreds of rhododendrons in bloom."
During the 10-day festival, a selection of plants propagated from the Milner collection, including rhododendrons and companion plants, will be available for sale in the nursery. The gift shop will have a selection of gardening books, including the popular booklet The Rhododendrons of Milner Gardens and Woodland. Weekend garden tours, an original floral art exhibit of works by regional artists and a rhododendron truss display featuring plants from the garden will also round out festival activities.
In 1996, Malaspina University-College was gifted with 42 seaside acres in Qualicum Beach, now known as Milner Gardens & Woodland. An additional 28 acres was added to the property in 1999. Since then, Milner Gardens has grown into one of the most beautiful tourist destinations on Vancouver Island. The 60 acre woodland and ten acre garden surrounding the heritage Milner house feature plants from the temperate zones of the world including a unique and significant collection of rhododendrons.
Rhododendron Days run from May 4 to May 14, 10 am to 5 pm daily. The Milner House, the Camellia Tea Room and Pool House Gift Shop will all be open.
Milner Gardens is located at 2179 West Island Highway in Qualicum Beach. For more information visit www.milnergardens.org or phone (250) 752- 6153.
Tags: In the Community
