VOA Special English
Visitors Return to California's Carlsbad Flower Fields

    2021/4/11

    The famous Flower Fields in Carlsbad, California is now open to the public. People can again take pictures while standing in meter-high blossoms of every imaginable color.

    Flower Fields was closed for most of 2020 because of coronavirus restrictions. However, falling cases and California’s move to lessen restrictions means the fields can reopen for a few visitors.

    Norah Miller has her picture taken by her friend Emma McCain as they visit the 50 acres of Ranunculus flowers at
    Norah Miller has her picture taken by her friend Emma McCain as they visit the 50 acres of Ranunculus flowers at "The Flower Fields" in Carlsbad, California, March 31, 2021. REUTERS/Mike Blake

    “I am so happy we’re open again,” said manager Fred Clarke. “Last year we were nine months in and we had to mow,” he said.

    The fields are 55 kilometers north of San Diego. They grow more than 70 million flowers. Every year when they bloom, people come from around the country to see the great show of color.

    The Flower Fields are open to visitors until May 9. It is also a working farm that sells flowers. Many will be sent to florists and stores that sell flowers, Clark explained.

    They create their own variety of ranunculus, a colorful, flowering plant also known as the buttercup. Every year they try to improve the size of the flower and its color.

    “So, every year we believe it’s getting better and better,” he said.

    Artie Creighton is from Corona, California. He said, “It does feel like things are easing a...bit. It’s just great to see the beauty and just get out and enjoy a day with my wife."

    “This is one of the first times we’ve been out in a long time,” he added.

    I’m Susan Shand.

    The Reuters News Agency reported this story. Susan Shand adapted it for Learning English. Hai Do was the editor.

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    Words in This Story

    blossom v. the flower of a fruit tree

    mow – v. to cut (something, such as grass) with a machine or a blade

    bloom – v. to produce flowers

    florist n. one who designs flower arrangements for sale

    variety n. a number or collection of different things or people

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