Landscape Services plants local bulbs

October 25, 2019

Rows of tulips bulbs in a soil trenchBefore the frost and sub-zero temperatures set in, Landscape Services takes the opportunity to plant Western's flower beds for the Spring. The classic selection of flowers remains, however, this year the tulip bulbs have been locally sourced.

Landscape Services Manager, Mike Lunau is confident in the quality of the bulb and even more content with a more sustainable option.

"Tulips are a mainstay in our beds on campus - they are a must for us," says Lunau. "Knowing that, we are careful when seeking suppliers."

According to Lunau the vendor, Vanco Farms of Prince Edward Island, is the only farm producing tulips for bulb production on North America's East Coast. The family-owned business holds sustainability in high regard and cites a commitment to environmental stewardship and farming best practices.

"We are happy with the product and it checks the boxes from a sustainability perspective," says Lunau. "Now we must patiently wait for the Spring to see the beautiful results."

Western's order sheet includes the TukTuk Nogait tulip variety in a mix of colours. They are expected to emerge next April.

Image courtesy: Marc Vanden Heuvel