AS FAR AS THE EYE CAN SEE

How crazy is it that I’ve been to Amsterdam’s famous Keukenhof Gardens to see endless tulips, but never ventured to see the spring blooms all over Southern California?  Given that I’m a native of Los Angeles, and all I had to do was plan the time and get in the car, that indeed seems curious.  Well, happily that is no more.

A Sunday day trip with daughter Hannah and a meet up with cousin Tracy proved well worth the early rise and drive to Carlsbad in north San Diego County.  A mere 90-minutes door to door delivered us to The Flower Fields — 55 acres of endless ranunculus (my favorite blooms), plus a good deal more outdoor activity.

We lucked out weather-wise — in between two unseasonal heat waves — providing very comfortable temperatures in which to take in the scenery.  And the early arrival allowed for smaller crowds and easy viewing.  Of course, the vastness of the space likewise allows one to meander and capture photos with virtually no people in the background.

Below, from the brochure

Some of the other activities beyond the flower fields are learning about the history of poinsettias (who knew?), bird sanctuaries, walking through the sweet pea maze, enjoying a formal tea service, and my personal favorite — tasting one of their famous strawberry shakes.  Given the close proximity of the strawberry fields where one can pick their own or simply buy from the nearby stand, this took no thought whatsoever!  There’s also a large area for picking blueberries, but that is on some weekdays only.

The Ecke family 100+ year history of cultivating poinsettias in this display. 

Definitely “as far as the eye can see ..” 

Lovely way to spend the day with daughter Hannah

Most definitely a high point for me as a longtime orchid enthusiast was visiting the Cymbidium Orchid greenhouse!  We were wowed by the insane number of plants in peak bloom.  They weren’t for sale, but I did purchase a plant from the same grower at the Armstrong’s Garden Center next to the fields.  They likewise offered plenty of ranunculus — cut stems, potted plants, and bulbs.

Abundant snapdragons below 

And then it was time to head back north on the dreaded “5” freeway for the trip home.  It took a bit longer, but the memories of the day provided great fulfillment for having finally seen the gorgeous blooms.

With cousin Tracy who lives in nearby San Marcos.

If you’re interested, the fields are open through the month of May.