Spring 2005
Iris Collectors Pursue Their Enthusiasm

The irises were beautiful, the host club was so helpful and friendly and we all LOVED the stunning tour gardens!

Our feature article this issue takes a different approach to garden design. We're displaying some of the scenes from the gardens on the 2005 American Iris Society tour Gardens in St. Louis, MO. We're featuring broad views of the gardens and focussing on the 450 (approx.) visitors walking through the paths.

Just click on the photo link you wish to view for a larger image to enjoy. Do you recognize yourself or some friends?

Missouri Botanical Garden in Saint Louis, MO

Iris collectors strolled through the 80 acre Missouri Botanical Garden with its wonderful iris display beds.

Cameras flashed and note pads filled with new plant ideas for our perennial gardens.

The following prepared and maintained these display beds: Jason Delaney, Doris Loveland, Bob and Ruth Ostrem, Riley Probst, Shirley Trio and Rich and Evelyn Sovar .

Pictured here is YOUNG PRINCE and SHARP SHOOTER.

Gormley Greenery in Cedar Hill, MO

Nestled in the Ozark foothills, Tom and Rita Gormley's garden sits on a 3.5 acre yard in pleasant contrast to the nearby cityscape.

Pictured here is JUST PRETENDING.

Sheraton Hotel Display Beds in Saint Louis, MO

The AIS Convention Hotel featured great displays of irises in peak bloom. Plants were contributed from local club members along with guest irises and cared for by Shirley Trio.

AIS members could be seen walking through the blooms early in the morning before loading onto the tour busses, taking in a few more irises at the end of a long day, studying the lessons for a judging clinic and relaxing with a few friends at the nearby patio. Pictured here is COLOR MY WORLD.

Hughes Garden in Webster Groves, MO

Irises and complementary companion plants flourished in this lush garden.

Nyla Hughes' beautiful landscape displayed the irises alongside the natural plants of the area in a successful presentation.

Pictured here is HIGHLAND GAMES.

Morris Garden in Balwin, MO

Delightful pathways lead AIS members on colorful walks through the garden of Jean and Jim Morris. This garden shows the care of a loving embrace with its surprising twists and turns throughout the yard.

AIS members could be seen walking through the blooms early in the morning before loading onto the tour busses, taking in a few more irises at the end of a long day, studying the lessons for a judging clinic and relaxing with a few friends at the nearby patio.

Convention chair, Riley Probst, takes a brief break from many weekend duties as he and Jim enjoy the bloom. Pictured here is SELECT CIRCLE and GETTYSBURG ADDRESS.

Southview School in St. Louis, MO

This classroom iris project, in conjunction with the Kirkwood Iris Society, began several years ago with the assistance of Jean Morris.

A grant from the Missouri Department of Conservation and many hours of work have made this a pristine display of attractive irises.

Pictured here is T-REX and DALLAS SKYLINE.

Porch Garden in High Ridge, MO

Mae Porch's dramatic retaining walls place iris viewing at eye level.

The blooms were large and beautiful with plenty of space for everyone to take in the drama of standards and falls up close.

Pictured here is BRIDAL ICING.

Skaggs Garden in House Springs, MO

Bob and Judy Skaggs built the home and this incredible garden . Out in the hill country, the bloom was beautiful as well as the lunch on the spacious grounds.

Pictured here is ZINGERADO.

Theissen Garden in Villa Ridge, MO

A new garden, Mike and Bev Theissen's iris display was a wonderful collection with two days on the tour.

Pictured here is TRANS-ORANGE and DRAMA QUEEN.

Youth Garden in Cedar Hill, MO

Built and designed by Joe Devous at his parents' home, this is the first AIS Youth garden on the National Tour .

Pictured here is ELEGANT GIRL.

See many more photos of these AIS tour gardens plus so much more in the 2006 Eureka Iris/Hosta Reference Guide, released in mid-March, 2006. Order your 2005 Eureka Iris/Hosta Reference Guide today including the FREE supplemental CD. Or, order your 2006 advance copy today for $23.95 for the Guide and $9.95 for the supplemental CD plus S/H and be in the first mailing.