Garden Iris, Exposed © 2008 Bo Mackison
A yellow iris from stock that my grandfather grew when I was a young child, nearly 50 years ago. It is a deep golden yellow and it’s mahogany markings are stunning. This photo shows the very depths of the iris flower, at it’s very core.
This view is fitting – it represents the origins of my love of gardening and nature. My grandfather and I spent hours together each day from early spring to late fall out in his gardens. There I learned to tell the difference between a flower and a weed, to plant a seed and transplant a plant, and to care for a garden and then reap its rewards – beautiful flowers, luscious vegetables, and deep satisfaction and joy sharing in the beauty of nature and her gifts.
About Bo Mackison
Another beautiful image Bo!
Thanks for sharing your story of your grandfather as it reminded me of my own grandfather. I have fond memories of him as he was an avid gardener. He managed to turn his small, inner city backyard lot into a beautiful garden of fruit trees, grape arbors and vegetables.
I remember his constant, almost humorous battle with the gray squirrels, trying to outsmart them. I also remember the day he introduced me to grafting by showing me his attempt of combining two types of plum trees, a process I found remarkable at the time.
Beautiful colors and patterns and a nice vignette on the genesis of your gardening.
Very lovely! I don’t have any yellow irises but the neighbor does and I was admiring them. How fortunate you had a grandfather to teach you so much, and is still with you… even in your photography.
Your grandfather gave you a lovely gift. 🙂