The sunflowers are coming, but just not quite yet.
That’s the word from Matthew and Gail Whitney, owners of Puddleford Tree Farm in Kent Bridge. They grow U-cut Christmas trees, and each summer use some of their open fields to grow sunflowers as a fundraiser for the CK Alzheimer Society’s Day Program.
This is their sixth year hosting the fundraiser.
“Thanks to the generous donation of sunflower seeds from our local Pioneer dealer, along with the incredible support of our community and local media, we have raised more than $17,000 for the CK Alzheimer Society’s Day Program,” the Whitneys said in a media release. “Every dollar raised helps provide meaningful programming for participants while also giving much-needed respite to their caregivers.”
The sunflowers normally reach full bloom in mid-July, but like other crops are delayed somewhat this year.
When they do bloom, the Whitneys will open the fields to the public for approximately two weeks. Families, friends, and visitors are invited to stroll through the flowers, take photographs, and create lasting memories together.
Admission is $5 per vehicle. Visitors can cut sunflowers to take home at $1 per flower.
The Whitneys ask any professional photographers who come to use the field for photos of clients to donate $35 per hour.
All proceeds are donated directly to the CK Alzheimer Society’s Day Program. Payments can be made by cash or e-transfer to [email protected].
To keep track of the sunflowers’ progress, visit Puddleford Tree Farm on Facebook or Instagram.
