The flowers are back in bloom inside Descanso Gardens in La Canada Flintridge, with camellias, crabapples, daffodils, and tulips currently in full bloom, and some California poppies, cherry blossoms, clivias and lilacs showing.
Soon, the roses and the wisterias will be flowering, telling you it’s a great time to enjoy spring in the Gardens, even with social distancing.
But the flowers are not the only sign that spring is here again. The birds have also started making their homes in the garden, and the sounds they make will surely add to the welcoming atmosphere as you enter Descanso Gardens, now open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and starting Monday, March 22, from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
It’s time to celebrate all nature has to offer at Descanso. But when you visit, you’ll have to observe some of the new policies that have been in place since last year to keep yourself and the staff safe. Visitors are required to maintain social distance, to wear a face covering, and to get tickets in advance – for non-members – so they’ll be able to manage the numbers.
Of course, members get free and repeat entry to the Gardens daily. They also get to enjoy exclusive after-hours access, from 5 to 7 p.m., up to this Friday. So you, too, might want to become a member, and contribute to the Gardens year-round maintenance. You see, Descanso Gardens is a member-supported botanic garden, and your membership donation provides opportunities for education, exploration and the enjoyment of nature.
Thousands of people now support Descanso Gardens through an annual membership, and, like them, you too can enjoy many benefits, including discounts at the Gift Shop, class discounts and members-only events. Check the Gardens’ website for information about becoming a member.
The Kitchen at Descanso Gardens also now allows advanced orders, so you can enjoy your meals on the Magnolia Lawn, socially distanced as well. Orders must be placed two days in advance. Your order will then be available for pickup at Descanso’s kiosk at the time of your reservation.
By making a Gourmet in the Garden reservation, you are guaranteed a table., but reserving a specific table is not possible at this time, Descanso said. Each table on the Magnolia Lawn has four chairs and is naturally shaded by the garden’s trees or by an umbrella.
To plan your visit, check Descanso’s website, www.descansogardens.org, for the available dates and all related safety advisories. For more information, call (818) 949-4200.
For membership information, visit www.descansogardens.org/
