by Lois Rose

In 1970, on the eastern end of Lake County, David Leach found a perfect thirty acres on which to hybridize rhododendrons.  Only a short distance from Lake Erie, this lovely garden houses many of his hybrids plus the experiments and successes of the new team, headed by Stephen Krebs, who took over after Leach died in 1998. Krebs is trying to develop resistance to fungal root rot in his hybrids.

Leach initially became well known for his knowledge and hybridizing skill with the publication of his book, Rhododendrons of the World, in 1961. He was an avid art collector and went on trips for collectors to Europe and elsewhere.  He also visited the ancestral homes of his favorite rhododendrons.

The process of hybridizing involves taking pollen from a plant of interest and transferring it to another plant which is then isolated from other pollen using a bag over its flower.  It can take up to 25 years from germination until possible retail success.  Leach developed 80 such hybrids many of which went to market.

The property is located off of Route 528 in Madison. It includes a scenic pond which comes to full eye -popping beauty with the blooming of the yellow iris.  There are test fields and greenhouses,  thousands of spring flowers, wonderful flowering trees and shrubs in a woodland setting in addition to the azaleas and rhodies.  

Leach left his property to Holden Arboretum in 1987.  Holden members are frequently given a day in which to visit the David G. Leach Rhododendron Research Station, as it is officially called. Tours are given by knowledgeable guides.  Be on the lookout next May for a date.  Garden Clubs can also arrange for tours.

If you are a camera buff and like rhododendrons or azaleas, this is nirvana.