Iowa State University’s Reiman Gardens is getting some national recognition. Reiman is one of 20 gardens in the country included in an exhibit this summer at the U.S. Botanic Garden in Washington D.C. Lisa Orgler, with Reiman Gardens, says their exhibit focuses on the legacy of Dr. Griffith Buck, who worked at ISU from 1948 to 1985.
Buck developed over 90 roses known for their ability to withstand Iowa’s harsh winters. Orgler says, “They’re not your typical roses that you need to cover and spray – they’re actually more hardy, so people can plant them and just leave them alone, and they’re just as beautiful as any other rose.”
Orgler says the Botanic Gardens invited ISU specifically because of the unique “Buck roses”. Orgler says Dr. Buck was ahead of his time, “Right now there’s a lot of talk about sustainability and sustainable gardens – and he developed all of these in the 50’s, 60’s, and 70’s – and now he’s finally getting recognition for that.” The Buck roses and Reiman Gardens’ display will be showcased on the west side of the U.S. Capitol through October 8th.