Watson to hold iris show Sunday in Smithville

‘They are absolutely gorgeous,’ said Watson of his iris collection. ‘I told my students this morning I hated to leave home and come to school because I was leaving heaven. I have probably 250 to 300 varieties in bloom right now and I hope that number is close to 400 on Sunday.’

The iris show takes place this Sunday, May 11, from 2 to 5 p.m. But Watson says he will accept visitors all weekend.

‘I would be a great thing to do on Mother’s Day,’ said Watson. ‘But for the people who can’t come Sunday, I’ll be here all weekend. Stop by on Friday or Saturday.’

Watson says he has five rows of irises that are 200 feet long. He has plenty of the traditional iris colors, but says the new breed of hybrid iris are ‘just spectacular.’

To get to Watson’s home, take Smithville Highway to Smithville and turn left by Hardee’s. Just before the second light take a left on Anthony Avenue. Watson’s house is the last house on the right. The show is free and Watson is hoping for a large turnout.