Rhododendron Gardens :: Mississauga Park

(Updates posted below)
Taking a break from marathon renovations, I walked across Lakeshore Road today to see if the rhododendrons were in bloom, and to find how far I am from Lake Ontario. As it turns out, not far at all -- about a five-minute walk!

Rhododendron Gardens Rhodos

Interim Place Original Site Mississauga Canada

At the entrance to the park, I saw this plaque, which I expected to inform about the origins of the park. To my surprise, I found it marks the location of the original Interim Place (women's shelter) in Mississauga.

Japanese Cherry Trees in Bloom

After several days of rain, storms, drizzle and fog, the sun was peeking out again, and highlighting the many trees in bloom.

Spring-blooming Shrubs

Apple Trees in Bloom

The apples trees proved to be Russets, with fruit ripening in mid Autumn. While picking fruit off the tree is not allowed, windfalls are free for the asking.

The inclement weather earlier this week had not damaged these tulips (pictured) in bloom, though mine in Streetsville were decimated. Everywhere, the trees positively glow with white, pinks, and carmine blossoms. I'm hoping to get a photo of Mississauga Road north of Eglinton tomorrow: There's a mile-long stretch of road lined with apple and cherry trees in bloom.

Lake Ontario shoreline Mississauga Rhododendron Gardens

And there I was, after less than five minutes of easy walking, feeling well pleased with myself for moving to Port Credit. I've always wanted to live near water, and I am thrilled to be so close to a Great Lake. When next we get a good blow from the southeast that whips the waves into large rollers, I'll brave the elements and take a picture for you.

To find more about the Gardens, see the City of Mississauga (new page will open), and check my websites for more Mississauga photos.

Video of this scene at YouTube
Deadheading rhodos see this post


Update May 2008:
• Spring seems late this year -- here are more photos from Rhododendron Park Gardens taken on May 5, 2008 -- see Rhododendron, forsythia, azalea post.

• Tour May 25 2008 : Rhododendron Garden Tour

Update 2009 : The Gardens has a new name and a blog of its very own! See Brueckner Rhododendron Gardens.