A brief update on what's in bloom at Chicago Botanic Garden. Lots of ups and downs in temperature the past two weeks, and even a bit of snow, has delayed the full emergence of spring. Luckily, the snow and cold temps didn't keep the crocuses from their glorious show on Evening Island. They are definitely at their peak right now and with the warmer temps these last two days, they are open and showing off their colors. The bees are busy gathering pollen and you might even see a few geese wandering among the crocuses snacking on the newly emerging grass. The crocuses won't last long, however, so if you haven't made a trip to see them, go now. The beautiful Harmony irises in the Sensory Garden Woods have lasted a long time this spring due to the colder temps. Normally they would be gone by now, but they have lingered and are also at their peak. Tulips, well, we still have a way to go. They are slowly peaking their heads out of the ground but seem to be a bit later in emerging due to the colder weather. The CBG staff are busy planting annuals in all of the gardens. I am waiting eagerly for ranunculus to go in. Hopefully, by early May all will be in bloom, along with the crabapples and magnolias. Stay tuned for further updates!

Crocuses of Evening Island Crocuses with the Lensbaby Composer Pro II and Sweet 80 optic

Joy Crocus, conducting the orchestra of spring, Lensbaby Velvet 85mm

  'Harmony' Iris in the Woods Harmony Iris in the Sensory Garden Woods, Lensbaby Velvet 85mm

Harmony Iris in the Sensory Garden Woods Harmony Irises, 100mm macro

For some tips on photographing the crocuses read my previous blog post here.