WINTER IN THE SHAKESPEARE GARDEN
By Bea Whyld
As this article is being written, Southern Californians are being reminded emphatically (almost rudely) that winter does visit us. In the throes of one storm after another roaring in off the Pacific Ocean, it might be a good idea to stop and reflect on what is going on with other aspects of nature.
There is no place in The Huntington Gardens where is winter more apparent than in the Shakespeare Garden. The absence of lush greenery and blooming color that we experience during nine months of the year are truly absent. However, as you walk through the garden, stop and listen to the silence. Is that faint noise I am detecting possibly an earthworm who is softly snoring during his hiatus? Keep in mind the marvelous job that Head Gardener Katarina Eriksson, Gardener Salvador Quintanilla, and Katarina’s cadre of Volunteers have done amending the soil over the past five years. It is now at the point where it is rich loam. An earthworm just might enjoy a little snore and the Garden is replete with earthworms.
Along with these charming critters, remember the seeds, the bulbs, and the roots are all taking a rest from the industrious labor they have been involved in since spring (which in spite of current conditions) very often arrives early in the Shakespeare Garden.
There is a touching gallantry about the blooms that are there. In addition to giving those plants a little extra attention, stop to look at those that are denuded and get a sense of the underlying structure that supports all the lovely colors and fragrances that we admire.
Undoubtedly, the most outstanding plant in bloom at this time is the Heath from South Africa with its lovely, colorful rosy pink flowers.
So, while we await the glories of the next season, pause for a moment to reflect what is really going on beneath all that soil. While it seems we are caught in a never-ending weather system of rain—rain—rain, keep in mind the Primrose Path is being planted between storms, and that once the daffodils, narcissus, and jonquils are in bloom and waving in the gentle spring breeze, this will all become just another memory of winter at The Huntington.
Do not write off the Shakespeare Garden at this time of year, but do also visit the Camellia and Desert Gardens. We are never without the tools to satisfy your garden instincts at The Huntington.
Bea Whyld, Rose/Shakespeare Garden Docent
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