The last time I saw the spring bloom at Descanso was in March of 2020, right before the world turned upside down during the pandemic. I’m so glad we made it back to California this spring. I’d almost forgotten how the flowers and trees seem to bloom all at once. The day couldn’t have been more magical. But Descanso is a magical place.

This is where I learned to tune in to the subtle seasonal changes of Southern California. Having been born on the East Coast, I was used to more obvious and dramatic seasonal shifts. But the more time I spent at Descanso over the years, the more aware I became of the nuances. I learned which flowers bloom first in spring and how the orb weavers spin their delicate webs on late September mornings, foreshadowing the arrival of fall. When people say, “There are no seasons in Southern California,” I know they’re wrong.

While every season at Descanso Gardens is beautiful, spring puts on the most spectacular display. The garden transforms into a kaleidoscope of vibrant colors, enticing scents, and fascinating textures – from petals to bark. Tulips bloom along the promenade in a multitude of colors, while a path of bright orange clivia beckons visitors to follow it through the enchanted camellia forest. Pure white calla lilies, with their intoxicating scent, stand tall under a canopy of majestic old oaks. Along the creek, azaleas and magnolias burst into shades of white and pink, while cherry blossoms begin to show their petite, delicate flowers, preparing for their turn to show off.

I walked through the garden slowly with my husband, retracing paths I’d wandered so many times before. Some of my familiar routes were gone – things never stay the same – but the garden has evolved beautifully over the years. The stately oaks still stand tall, protective and wise, and the green goddess calla lilies still linger by the pond. The crows gather near the entrance, waiting for their chance to snatch a piece of food dropped by a visitor, and forget-me-nots still bloom in a small patch if you know where to look along the camellia forest floor.

The sun felt so good after coming straight from a long, cold winter in New York City. The sound of birds was a sweet lullaby as I basked in the morning sunlight, closing my eyes and just listening – taking it all in, savoring the moment, being fully present. I took in a deep breath and let it all out, a weight lifting from my shoulders. I felt relaxed, happy and comforted as a warm breeze carried the familiar scent of chaparral and sage scrub filling up my entire being with peace. Finally, I was home, even if only for a little while.

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