Published March 2nd, 2011
One Man Flower Crew Makes Mark in Happy Valley
By Cathy Tyson
Photo provided
Those large, dramatic swaths of yellow King Alfred daffodils that welcome residents to the Happy Valley neighborhood and along Deer Hill Road are the work of Greg Moeller, a self-described "balding retired bean counter" and gardening nut. "There's no nut like a garden nut," Moeller adds.

Calling it "therapeutic" and a labor of love, Lafayette resident Moeller just wants to beautify the neighborhood for all to enjoy. Each fall the Happy Valley Improvement Association gives away thousands of bulbs with no strings attached, paid for by the nominal yearly dues it collects from homeowners.

Moeller estimates he planted 11,000 daffodils this past fall - that are in full bloom at the moment. Some are paid for with Improvement Association funds, but a chunk of the cost comes from his own pocket. He's also responsible for bird houses and has been spreading poppy seeds in the area. A special thanks goes to Orchard Nursery for being so generous, said Moeller, they have been very supportive of the project.

Drivers just can't help but wave and give a shout out when he's weeding or planting the little triangular flower bed at the corner of El Nido Road and Upper Happy Valley or tending to his cheery flower crops throughout the neighborhood. He wants to thank residents for, "Not hitting the guy who looks homeless."


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