Burbank Day

Burbank Day

March 7

The birthday of naturalist and plant breeder Luther Burbank (1849-1926) is observed in California in much the same way Arbor Day is observed in other states—that is, with activities promoting the value of natural resources and the protection of trees and birds. Burbank moved from his native Massachusetts to Santa Rosa, Calif., in 1875 and spent the rest of his life there experimenting with new varieties of fruits, flowers, and vegetables. Among his other achievements, he is credited with introducing the Shasta daisy. All in all, he developed more than 800 new strains and varieties of fruits, flowers, and forage plants, drawing worldwide attention to the science of plant breeding and helping farmers learn how to use their land more productively.
Burbank was fortunate enough to be honored by the citizens of Santa Rosa during his lifetime. The Rose Carnival was held intermittently between 1894 and his death in 1926. Then, in 1950, the three-day Luther Burbank Rose Festival was instituted. This celebration, which takes place annually in mid-May, includes flower shows, music and sporting events, and a Rose Festival parade. On March 7 a birthday and Arbor Day celebration is held at the Luther Burbank Home and Gardens.

CONTACTS:
Santa Rosa Convention and Visitors Bureau
9 Fourth St.
Santa Rosa, CA 95401
800-404-7673 or 707-577-8674; fax: 707-571-5949
www.visitsantarosa.com

SOURCES:
AmerBkDays-2000, p. 189
AnnivHol-2000, p. 40

Celebration day: Mar 7