The day lily collection includes more than 600 cultivars, a horticulturally or agriculturally derived variety of a plant. Gathering these flowers began in 1960 when the American Hemerocallis Society donated 150 day lily cultivars. Volunteers do much of the gardening, says Mary Ann Jarvis, volunteer and events coordinator. The arboretum needs volunteers for at least one four-hour period weekly at the azalea gardens. Volunteers such as Hasty and Dery, who lead special programs, are needed for one three-hour session monthly.
Visitors seem to agree.
In addition to the young folks giggling in the Herb Garden, grownups were biking along the 9.5 miles of paved roads, a twenty-something couple snuggled under a tree and senior citizens strolled among the day lilies. Other people come alone to enjoy a book in the peaceful shade of the Lee Azalea Garden. Many bring picnics. Beverages, but not food, are available in the gift shop. Some hikers make the half-hour trek to the Mount Hamilton Overlook.