On a recent trip to Southeast Alaska, my Aunt Char and I met up with my brother Dave and sister-in-law Karen to visit the Jensen-Olson Arboretum. The day was cool and overcast, perfect for roaming about the garden beds and taking in the dramatic scenery. By the time we left, the sun was starting to shine!
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| Welcome to Jensen-Olson Arboretum |
The public garden is located on Pearl Harbor, 23 miles north of Juneau just past the Shrine of Saint Therese. The Arboretum was the former home and garden of Caroline Jensen, Juneau resident and Master Gardener. She bequeathed her property to the City and Borough of Juneau with the vision that the gardens would provide the people of Juneau a place that teaches and inspires learning. The Arboretum opened to the public in 2007. Merrill Jensen, the garden's first manager, documented its plants and obtained National Accreditation Status for its collection of the genus Primula. He also worked with community members and volunteers to expand the collection and infrastructure.
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| What's in Bloom? |
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| A drift of Blue Cowslip (Pulmonaria 'Azurea' Blue) |
Besides the sweeping views of rugged Alaska scenery, the garden includes flower beds, a poetry garden, and a kitchen garden that donates food seasonally to The Glory Hole. The garden also hosts native plant walks, plant sales, art programs with local artists, youth programs, and garden celebrations.
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| Grand view of Pearl Harbor and beyond |
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| Poetry garden |
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| Kitchen garden |
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| Exploring the flower beds |
The Arboretum actively propagates new plants and plants from their collection (some of the Primulas are quite rare). The plants are used in the garden beds, and are periodically available for purchase through Plant Sales.
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| Cold frame with starters |
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| Drumstick Primula (Primula denticulata) |
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| Pink Corydalis |
Friends of Jensen-Olson Arboretum is an active partner, dedicated to raising funds for ongoing projects and maintenance. Volunteers also pitch in to maintain the grounds and garden beds. I highly recommend visiting the Jensen-Olson Arboretum in all seasons to enjoy the views and seasonal change of the gardens. It's a great place for solitary visits or visits with friends and family.
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| A shelter for taking in the beauty (out of the rain) |
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| A good time was had by all |
1 comment:
How lovely to see the shots of this beautiful garden/park. It brings back memories of our visit there. You have some very pretty shots. Thanks for sharing!
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