Springtime is for Loudoun flowers but the flowers at Legacy Blooms in Lucketts – daffodils, dahlias, double tulips, peonies, ranunculus and more – are extra special. They are grown, cut and arranged by neurodivergent individuals who are part of a garden-based work and entrepreneurial mentorship program run by the extraordinary Legacy Farms non-profit at Temple Hall Farm Regional Park. The program serves 42 neurodivergent individuals each year, ages 16 and up, with apprentices on hand to lead tours of the gardens twice a month. “It's really an experience where you will learn, but also have your senses engaged,” said Zayd Anwarzai who has apprenticed in the gardens for two years. “I might come across my favorite flower and I might be like, ‘I just love how fresh it is, how beautiful it's blooming.’ I've developed a newfound passion for flowers." The blooms go to subscription customers, businesses who order bouquets and florists who need perfect stems for events, weddings and special orders. You can also visit the Legacy Blooms booth in the Lightfoot Restaurant parking lot during the Leesburg Flower & Garden Festival, April 26-27.
