Lake Oswego flower basket program returns this spring

The Lake Oswego Chamber of Commerce’s flower basket initiative — which involves the hanging of flower baskets along local streets — will be completed by June 1, according to chamber organizer Julia Fowler.

The chamber will put up 207 baskets this year on primary routes such as Boones Ferry Road, Kruse Way, Meadows Road, Country Club Road, A and B Avenues and State Street.

This is the 34th year of the program, which was started by past chamber president Doug Oliphant in 1990. A volunteer committee raises funds and organizes the program every year, Fowler said. The Garden Corner and owner Jonn Karsseboom have partnered with the chamber since the program’s inception and plant the flowers well in advance of the May planting.

“His team champions the ongoing maintenance through the summer to keep the baskets blooming, healthy and lively. If that wasn’t enough, Jonn stepped in during the pandemic and generously offered his crew to hang the baskets, which we’ve continued,” Fowler wrote via email.

Fowler added that Lake Oswego is a better place because of the flower baskets.

“As the largest organization dedicated to economic activity in the City of Lake Oswego, the Lake Oswego Chamber of Commerce frequently receives comments about the City’s beautiful and active business districts, of which we are fortunate to have many throughout our community,” Fowler wrote. “One reason why Lake Oswego business districts remain attractive is because of the hanging baskets that adorn main streets including Boones Ferry, Kruse Way, Meadows Road, Country Club, A and B Avenues and State Street.”

To contribute to the program, visit the Lake Oswego Chamber Foundation website at www.lakeoswegochamber.com or call 503-636-3634.