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Although the weather has been wildly unpredictable this season — snow, severe hailstorms, late frosts and everything in between — the rhododendrons have still managed to shine. They’ve taken every bit of extreme weather in their stride, and honestly, I think this year they’ve proven just how tough and resilient they really are.
Over the past six weeks we’ve had the privilege of taking our rhododendrons out into the community for a few very special events. We love supporting local groups, and it’s always a joy to see our plants bringing colour to different corners of Canterbury.
Our first outing was for the Courtenay Agricultural & Pastoral 150th Ball, where the rhododendrons were used to help decorate the Kirwee Hall as part of our local A&P show celebrations. It was a great night to be involved in, with our blooms adding an elegant splash of colour to the event.
Next up, we were invited to brighten the Canterbury A&P Show in both the Presidents’ and Members’ tents. I may have surprised a few people when I rolled up with 70 flowering rhododendrons safely tucked into the back of my car — and I’m very proud to report we didn’t lose a single bloom in transit! They really put on a show.
Then, just when I thought things might quieten down, Colin popped in on Saturday to see if we could host the Veteran Vintage Car Club on Sunday. Of course, we said yes! Luckily the weather turned on a stunning day for them, and Steve and I were absolutely spoilt with the most beautifully restored vintage cars parked all around the nursery. With most of the rhododendrons finished flowering by then, the cars themselves became the stars of the day — adding their own pop of colour and character.
One of the things I love about running the nursery is the variety of groups who drop by. It’s not just garden clubs — we meet people from all sorts of backgrounds, all with their own stories. And every time, I’m reminded of just how small New Zealand really is. There are always connections made, shared friends discovered, and stories that link back to someone we both know.
These past six weeks have been full on, but they’ve also been full of community, colour, and connection. It’s moments like these that make me so grateful for the support we receive — and for the chance to share RhodoDirect with so many wonderful people.