While they struggled to keep their flowers alive through this hot, dry summer, a lot of Lawrence gardeners probably have been a little envious of the lush blooms in the downtown flower planters.

The beds are always beautiful, but they were especially remarkable given this year’s harsh conditions. A number of volunteers help plant flowers downtown and elsewhere in the spring, and the gardens are maintained by Lawrence Parks and Recreation. It has taken plenty of tender, loving care — and a lot of watering — to keep the planters overflowing with colorful blooms.

The flowers add much to the ambience of downtown Lawrence and are a frequent subject of comment by both residents and visitors to the city. Especially when Mother Nature is making the conditions challenging, the volunteers and staff who plant and maintain these beds deserve the community’s thanks.