Clemens
Gardens
When
a plot of land came up for sale across the street from the home
of Bill and Virginia Clemens they purchased it and then donated
the land to the City of St. Cloud Park Department. Known for her
love of roses and flowers, the late Virginia Clemens battled multiple
sclerosis for more than 40 years. As a true act of love, and a
way to give something back to the community Bill Clemens funded
the establishment of and continues to fund the Clemens Gardens.
In 1990 Bill and Virginia Clemens funded the construction of the
rose garden, purchased 1100 rose bushes, and even paid the wages
for a rose grower. This led to the development of the Virginia
Clemens Rose Garden, which is now part of six separate gardens
along Kilian Boulevard that make up the Clemens Gardens.
The
flavor of European gardens comes alive along this stretch of Kilian
Boulevard. The six gardens that make up the Clemens Gardens offer
a feast for the senses - especially for the eyes. Savor the sweet-smelling
roses. Gaze at the explosions of color set off by the various
shades and hues of green. Be surprised by the interesting shapes
formed by the gardeners' creative trimming of various small trees,
hedges, and bushes.
Stroll
along the red-brick walkways of Clemens Gardens and you can see
firsthand the nurturing that has gone into this series of gardens.
Stand just south of the restroom area and the rose garden, and
look further south, up the hill to the fountain and trelliage
garden, and you can feel an inspiring symmetry in the design of
these gardens.
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