Dutch Crown Princess Maxima of the Netherlands today opened the Keukenhof Gardens for the 2010 season, which runs through May 16. As the theme for the 61st year of the world's largest bulb gardens is "From Russia with Love," Russian first lady Svetlana Medvedeva joined in the opening ceremony, which included the "christening" of a new white tulip variety named "Medvedeva."
Blooming Russian-themed landscapes will feature beds planted in the shape of matryoschka dolls, as well as an 82 ft. by 50 ft. floral reproduction of Moscow's Saint Basil's Cathedral, comprising 65,000 bulbs.
After one of the coldest Dutch winters on record, bloom time for the bulbs will come later in the season than in years past. But according to experts, the bulbs will benefit from more plant growth hormone after such conditions.
Be sure to see my gallery of photos from the Keukenhof, as well as my Guide to Tulip Time in Holland.
Pictured: Dutch Crown Princess Maxima and Russian First Lady Svetlana Medvedeva
Photos Courtesy of Keukenhof Gardens