Richard H Bazett (Dick)

Kelowna, British Columbia.
1922-2021

Served during the second world war and earned a bachelors degree in Agriculture follow ing this. Worked as the BC branch manager for the Farm Credit Corporation until retirement. His interest in hybridizing lilies began in the early 1970s when he was looking for disease-free bulbs in new colors for his garden. He happened on a display of lily stems in a shopping mall and was sent home with an arm­ load of blooms and the handbook “Let’s Grow Lilies!” He was hooked. When planning his crosses he would make certain at least one of the parents had a reputation for vigor, longevity and dis­ ease tolerance. He noted that a known tendency to transmit desired traits was helpful also. Stated his hybridizing goals changed over the years as new opportunities and challenges presented themselves. His focus was on polyploidy in Asiatics, OTs and aurelians. ‘Pink Jazz’ is one of his best lilies (Wilbert Ronald, March 23rd , 2020). His passion for lilies took him to various parts of the world, entering stems in competitions and giving presentations.

Excerpted from “Canadian Lily Hybridizers and Their Lilies – A Working Garden Reference” by Leanne Dowd