Daffodillion, Newport’s drive to beautify the city with 1 million daffodils, is on its way to planting an additional 80,000 bulbs this year.
“This will take us to 240,000 daffodils that have been planted throughout Newport in the last 7 years, almost a quarter of the way to our “Daffodillion” goal” said John Hirschboeck, Project Director. That’s still a long way from the 3 million that Nantucket has planted – but they’ve been at it for the past 39 years!”
The objective of Daffodillion’s community-wide effort is to enhance the beauty of Newport, bringing springtime delight to both residents and the city’s many visitors.
To help achieve its goal, Daffodillion volunteers will be distributing 25,000 daffodil bulbs to Newport residents and businesses this Saturday, October 19, from 9-2pm at Easton’s Beach – free of charge. All that’s required is to print out and bring along the “I Pledge to Plant” form found at www.Daffodillion.com. In return, they’ll receive a “Let’s Go Daffy Newport!” bag of 3 dozen complimentary daffodil bulbs (a retail value of over $20). Supplies are limited to the 25,000 bulbs available.
The bulbs were generously donated by Daffodillion Founder’s Club members who, in recognition of Newport’s upcoming 375th anniversary, donated $375 each in a collective effort to beautify Newport. Their donated bulbs will first bloom in April of Newport’s birthday year in 2014 – and every April thereafter.
In addition to the free bulbs that will be distributed to individuals for their own planting, over 50,000 bulbs will soon be planted by the City and various organizations at locations throughout Newport. Locations include:
- Cliff Walk, behind Salve Regina and The Breakers
- Rhode Island Bridge & Turnpike Authority managed property at the Newport exit/entrance of the Pell Bridge
- The Pell School
- Rogers High School
- The Cluny School
- St. Michael’s
- The Point
- Fort Adams
- Queen Anne Square
- Memorial Boulevard
- Equality Park
“Daffodils are the quintessential spring flower. Their faithful appearance each April is a sure sign that winter has ended,” said Hirschboeck. “With the involvement and support of our many donors, volunteer planters, residents and businesses, we are ensured of many years of lasting beauty in Newport.”
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