Midwest Chapter Show
Eldred Green, Chicago, Illinois
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Fig. 46. Rhododendron and azaleas suitable for the Chicago
area shown by Morton Arboretum at the Chicago World Flower and Garden Show. Photo Morton Arboretum |
The Midwest Chapter held a cut truss show on Sunday, May 26, in the lobby of the Morton Arboretum Administration Building. There were approximately 80 exhibits divided about evenly between azaleas and rhododendrons. The azaleas were largely Exbury varieties. Many of the better named varieties were on display. A few Mollis and some Ghents were also shown. This display of Exbury azaleas was brilliant and aroused a lot of interest in their use as garden plants.
The rhododendrons consisted for the most part of Catawbiense hybrids of the ironclad group. A few newer varieties were on display.
Attendance was not as large as last year due mostly to bad weather. The day was dull and showers were widespread. Members however turned out in good numbers. A short Chapter meeting was held and Donald Zaun was elected as president, Lawrence Cripe as vice president, and Eldred Green as secretary-treasurer.
Members and visitors attending the Show were greatly interested in the new rhododendron and azalea plantings of the Morton Arboretum.
The Arboretum has provided a spot on a low hill underneath a stand of Scotch pine. The pines were planted about 30 years ago and the result has been a fairly heavy stand of trees with little foliage on the stems, providing a canopy of high shade.
Prepared beds have been made on the hill which faces north and west. Many varieties have been planted including the old dependable standbys and many newer ones by Shammarello and other hybridizers. Wood chips are used as mulch.
The location of the planting is only a short walk from the main entrance and is sure to become one of the showiest plantings in the Arboretum. Flowering dogwoods have been planted in the woods and will add to the display.
Members were enthusiastic about the great progress made by the Arboretum in this planting. Webster Crowley and Roy Nordine of the Arboretum staff have been quite interested, have worked with the Chapter in many ways, and have been most helpful.
This planting as it becomes established and more spectacular is sure to increase interest in rhododendrons. The Arboretum is to be congratulated on making this planting as it has vast potential for display and education.