Bucks Beautiful announced that it raised enough funds through donations to plant 40,000 daffodil bulbs in Bucks County this fall. In partnership with Gale Nurseries Inc., the perennial bulbs will be planted at five locations.
The Bulbs for Bucks program was the inspiration of board member Chuck Gale, who wanted to beautify Bucks County at key locations with the first splendor of spring – blooming daffodils. Gale said, “I like the idea of planting daffodils because the bulbs multiply each year, and the project is long-lasting for future generations to enjoy. To my knowledge, this is the largest bulb planting project in the state of Pennsylvania.”
Since the initiative debuted in 2010, over 1.6 million daffodil bulbs have been established throughout the county.
Bulbs will be planted at the following locations:
Kutz Elementary School in Doylestown received 10,000 bulbs to memorialize former student Dominic Liples, who passed away from brain cancer in 2016. The “Daffodils for Dominic” planting was slated to take place last year to coincide with what would have been his graduation from the school in June 2021, but had to be postponed due to the pandemic. Students, staff, friends and family members hand-planted 500 daffodils in honor of Dominic around the school flagpole. Visit prayfordominic.com to learn how his legacy continues through philanthropic efforts benefiting pediatric brain cancer research and oncology patients at CHOP.
5,000 bulbs will encircle the native trees which Bucks Beautiful previously planted at Lion’s Pride Park in Warrington. This 47-acre public park was developed through a collaboration between the township, the Lion’s Club and community. The unique, ADA-compliant space offers both traditional and nature-based recreational and educational opportunities for visitors of all ages and abilities.
Prior bulb plantings at Pine Run Retirement Community were so well-received that it’s become an annual tradition underwritten by Bucks Beautiful co-founders Jack and Carol McCaughan. The combined 15,000 blooms will be a cheerful display for residents and visitors alike this spring.
10,000 bulbs will be installed at The National Shrine of Our Lady of Czestochowa in remembrance of supporters’ loved ones. The flowers will grace the grounds directly opposite those at Pine Run, creating an impressive sight for anyone driving along Ferry Road next spring.
Chuck and Barbara Gale have sponsored 10,000 bulbs to be planted at The Tileworks of Bucks County, built in 1898 by Henry Chapman Mercer. Mercer’s artistic tiles were sought out by leading architects to decorate public and private buildings. This planting will pay homage to one of the most important proponents of the American Arts and Crafts Movement in Bucks County.
Homeowners can add their own curb appeal while supporting Bucks Beautiful’s efforts by purchasing a Bucks County Select Daffodil Bulb Mix. To donate bulbs in tribute to a hero or in memory of a loved one, visit bucksbeautiful.org or call 215-340-3639.
