Dahlia Festival In Bloom At VA Grower Wollam Gardens

The bees and the crowd were buzzing under Saturday's clear skies at Wollam Gardens in Jeffersonton.

Looking to lure in old and new friends alike, the farm hosted its first-ever Dahlia Festival this weekend and last, showcasing locally produced flowers, food and products. The free event continues today from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m.

"We wanted to catch everybody before the kids went back to school," said Sarah Bayne, the farm's events coordinator.

Spread over about 12 rolling acres, proprietor Bob Wollam and a staff of about 12 grow about 80 types of flowers, shrubs and ornamental plants.

Slowly bouncing along in a golf cart, Wollam described in detail the characteristics and uses for row after row of bright, strong, healthy looking plants. Some such as sunflowers and broomcorn — which has fibers used for making the namesake broom whisks and other crafts — were easily recognizable. Others were a bit less familiar.

To read the rest of this story please go to: Culpeper Star-Exponent