Swiss Woods, crown of Lititz Gardens

MayEvery spring as the daffodils just take our breath away and then give way to the staggering variety of spring flowers and plants, I am just astounded at what all grows in the Swiss Woods gardens.  Today the early daylilys are blooming profusely, the rhododendrons are loaded down with the brightest pink and purple blooms, Jack in the pulpits in white and stunning dark purple, perennial orchids, and bright red poppys. The plentiful rain has only served to make everything more lush than usual. The iris are starting to bloom around the water garden and the birds are building nests in every available tree.

Do you recognize the plants at right? We have had guests ask if they are fake, garden art, statues. If you walk close to them their distinctive smell will tell you that they are every bit alive and growing. They, for lack of a better word... stink. After the black lily stage they turn into what some call an umbrella tree. It is called Devil's Tongue or the Umbrella Tree Plant. They are truly impressive.




There are still a few rooms available for Memorial Day weekend. Why not join us? There are many interesting and fun activities going on all over Lancaster County, or you can just soak up our wonderful peace and quiet.

Local Events.. just a smattering, there are far too many to list here

Flavor Fest at Mt Hope Estate and Winery, just a short 10 minutes from the Inn

Shows at the American Music Theater, Bill Cosby, Kelly Pickler, Dwight Yoakim and many more. 

Who goes Bare at the Rainbow Dinner Theater.  This dinner theater is always good for a laugh and a good time. 

Make plans now to visit us for a weekend in July and August for a wonderful picnic at Nissley Vineyard for their music in the park. 

Lancaster County PA, Greenhouses galore!

Spring is in full swing in Lititz and it is time to turn our attention to the gardens. How fun is that! Every year I am astounded at the number of greenhouses scattered all over Lancaster County. One close to us here at Swiss Woods specializes in geraniums and produces more than a million a year to sell wholesale. Their retail store is like an FA Schwarz of greenhouses, a veritable gardners delight. But they are not the only option by far. Some focus on water gardening, some on herbs and heirlooms, some of shrubs and then there are the auctions that sell plants by the pallet to Roots and Green Dragon’s produce auction that sell by the piece or flat.

Yesterday Erma and I took a few hours to visit the Roots plant auction. What fun that was to bid on hanging fuchsia baskets, flats of colorful inpatients, marigolds, hosta and coral bells. The prices were amazing .. as low as $3 a flat for marigolds. I totally love auctions!

We will be happy to map these greenhouses out for you, sending you to our favorites.  Roots is on Tuesdays and Green Dragon Farmers Market is on Fridays. The Leola Flower auction runs the beginning of the week. Why not come and stay and see these colorful wonders for yourself? 

Werner on the left. .. having a great time!