Spring has sprung across northeastern and central Pennsylvania, which means many plants and flowers are blooming.
SUNBURY, Pa. — Nestled along South Front Street in Sunbury is Keithan’s Bluebird Gardens. The gardens were started in the 1920s by then Sunbury resident Charles Keithan. But for the past almost three decades, 80-year-old Lane Murray has been the caretaker here.
She says a lot of work goes into getting ready for the season, and right now, the gardens are starting to bloom. Prepping the gardens begins in mid-March.
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“As things bloom, you have to trim after they’re done blooming. It’s a labor of love. We did the gazebo, it’s spray-washed,” said Lane Murray, Keithan’s Bluebird Gardens Volunteer.
Murray says the gardens have a lot of exotic flowers and trees that Charles Keithan imported from all around the world, featuring everything from buttercup yellow magnolias to kousa dogwood trees. “Mr. Keithan was a collector of plants from all over the world, so we kept collecting. We have Rhododendrons that other people don’t have.”
Keithan’s Gardens is also available for weddings, tea parties, and more. Murray says the proceeds go towards the upkeep of the gardens.
“We’re as good as Longwood Gardens. Longwood Gardens doesn’t have the Rhododendrons and the variety of trees that we have. It’s awesome, it smells good too,” said Murray.
Murray says the gardens also have seven different kinds of magnolias and 75 different day lilies. She says they try to incorporate flowers so that the garden doesn’t just bloom once and it’s done. Instead, different flowers bloom all summer long.
“You can come here 24/7, it’s a public park, you’re welcome anytime,” said Murray.
Murray says Keithan’s Bluebird Gardens is looking to purchase a new tractor this season, and they are always looking for more volunteers.
To donate or volunteer, you can reach out to Lane Murray at (570) 847-1498.
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