I just found out that Cooley's Gardens is closing after this season. I am so sad to see such an established company close its doors. I am afraid this is just a beginning to some of the other Iris companies out there.

Justin

Yes, it really is very sad, but after Rick Ernst passed away I didn't see how Katie could carry it all forward by herself. So it is not unexpected, although I had hoped that maybe one of the relatives would take over or another company would purchase it.

That is very sad news. Cooley's was my first contact for buying irises. I remember getting Octoberfest, Joyce Terry and Smiling Gold from them. I saved (and still have) several of their old catalogs which I kept for references. They were an important part of iris history. Rick's Different World still has a place of honor in our beds.

Different World

This is my favorite Ernst iris, DANDY CANDY. Sometimes the blooms seem like a really pink-lavender bitone, and then at other times they seem like a purple/light orangish pink bicolor. I really love the color variations.

I am sure that plans for Rick's seedlings being increased for introduction have been made. 3 generations is long for a family business & they wouldn't want it to go under the name to just anyone.

Very sad, indeed. One of the first catalogues I ever saw came from there.

Justin, welcome, BTW.

The ones that Rick was working on are going to be evaluated and introduced down the line, the business may be no more but Katie wants his hard work to continue and so in a few years you will see more of his lovely iris.

Rick was the iris person, while Katie enjoyed working with him, but it is not the same now.

D

I am glad that his work will not be lost. that would be tough.

I am happy to hear that his hard work will still carry on.