Celebrating the African-Canadian Gardeners Among Us
15/02/12 10:08 PM Filed in: Area News
by member and Greenleaf Editor Sally Grande
Aku Dunyo Richter was born in a small village called Dagbamete ( “dag-ba-me-tey” ), which is about 2 hours east of Accra, the capital of Ghana on the west coast of Africa. In a story originally printed in the February 2009 Greenleaf, we learned that Aku married Conrad Richter, of Richters Herbs in Uxbridge, and came to Canada in 1996. The couple have three children: daughter, Emma, and sons, Kofi and Kwaku. Aku is the Greenhouse Manager in the family business, while Conrad looks after the business planning, computer operations, Richters’ web presence, marketing and research. Together, they make a terrific “green team”. Aku retains much of the botanical knowledge entrusted to her by her father, a recognized expert in regional botany and herbal remedies. Although coming to Canada was quite a shock, she has flourished and has adapted her botanical knowledge to fit Durham’s climate. Aku still finds time to pursue her love of dance and occasionally she performs in the community. In December 2011, Aku danced in a production of the Wizard of Oz at the Danforth Theatre in Toronto.
January Presentation: Tips for Growing Winning Roses Organically from A to Z
14/02/12 09:03 PM Filed in: Club Events | Garden Articles
by member Karen Sciuk
Shari-Lyn Safir introduced us to a colourful array of her favourite roses, encouraging us to try some here in zone 5, as they also survive further north in her zone 2b Thunder Bay gardens. Instead of buying potted roses whose roots will have been pruned to fit the pots, she advised us to find bare root plants grafted onto hardy multi-flora root stocks for 30-50% of the price.
To plant, dig a hole 3 ft. deep by 3 ft. wide if possible, to enable the roots to be spread out over a mound of black earth. The graft union should be 6 in. below the final soil surface to protect the grafted portion from the freeze-thaw cycles of our winters. Back fill the hole in one-third increments with a 1:1:1 mixture of black earth, manure ( e.g. sheep ), and well-aged garden compost ( not mushroom ). Water well each time, tamping down to remove air pockets. Throw in 3 banana peels for a dose of potassium, tea and coffee grounds to boost the acidity, and garlic bulbets to deter aphids. For the first 2 weeks pile black earth above the canes to encourage root growth over vegetative growth, followed by slow and careful removal.
When the forsythias are in bloom it's time to prune out dead, diseased, and damaged wood, as well as any canes smaller in diameter than a pencil. Open up the interior to ensure good air circulation leaving 3-5 canes in an open vase or bowl shape. Hybrid Teas can be pruned back by half every year, and down to 6 in. if producing show blooms. Grandifloras, Floribundas, Austins should be left alone for 3-4 years, and reduced by a third in subsequent years. Let ramblers ramble, and climbers climb! However more climbing canes will be produced if the original canes are bent or wound horizontally on their supports. Dead head frequently until mid October.
Transplanting is best done in the early spring of March/ April, keeping as much of the root ball intact as possible.
Alfalfa pellets or cubes are a great rose fertilizer. Use 3-4 per bush covered in manure, or soak to make alfalfa tea, starting at the end of April and ending by August the 1st. Epsom salts sprinkled once per month help green up the leaves, and ease the basal breaks of suckers. If showing, time the application for one week before the show, and prune stems to a 5-leaf leaflet.
Roses thrive on neglect so water infrequently i.e. a 3-5 gallon soak once per week is sufficient, and encourages deep roots. To avoid Black Spot be sure NOT to water overhead or at night. Recipe for Rust and Blackspot 1 gallon or 4.5L of water 1 tbsp baking soda 1 tbsp vegetable oil 1 squirt of mild dish soap Spray once every five days wherever you see evidence of disease.
To discourage pests and attract predators such as lacewings plant dill, parsley, fennel, wild carrot nearby. Aphids and sawflies can be handpicked, but if you're squeamish the following recipe works well. Recipe for Aphids: 1 gallon or 4.5L of water 7-8 crushed garlic cloves Place crushed garlic in water and let stand for 24 hours. Strain the mixture and spray where you see aphids. (Squishing them with your fingers is also an effective option)
For winter protection, mound pure black earth over the canes once the ground has frozen, and cover the earth with shredded autumn leaves away from the protruding canes. To prevent the leaves from being blown away cover the entire mound with composted manure. Once spring arrives worms will get to work mixing the leaves, manure, and black earth, and the mound will be reduced without having to remove it.
For more information visit the Canadian Rose Society: www.canadianrosesociety.org
Shari-Lyn Safir introduced us to a colourful array of her favourite roses, encouraging us to try some here in zone 5, as they also survive further north in her zone 2b Thunder Bay gardens. Instead of buying potted roses whose roots will have been pruned to fit the pots, she advised us to find bare root plants grafted onto hardy multi-flora root stocks for 30-50% of the price.
To plant, dig a hole 3 ft. deep by 3 ft. wide if possible, to enable the roots to be spread out over a mound of black earth. The graft union should be 6 in. below the final soil surface to protect the grafted portion from the freeze-thaw cycles of our winters. Back fill the hole in one-third increments with a 1:1:1 mixture of black earth, manure ( e.g. sheep ), and well-aged garden compost ( not mushroom ). Water well each time, tamping down to remove air pockets. Throw in 3 banana peels for a dose of potassium, tea and coffee grounds to boost the acidity, and garlic bulbets to deter aphids. For the first 2 weeks pile black earth above the canes to encourage root growth over vegetative growth, followed by slow and careful removal.
When the forsythias are in bloom it's time to prune out dead, diseased, and damaged wood, as well as any canes smaller in diameter than a pencil. Open up the interior to ensure good air circulation leaving 3-5 canes in an open vase or bowl shape. Hybrid Teas can be pruned back by half every year, and down to 6 in. if producing show blooms. Grandifloras, Floribundas, Austins should be left alone for 3-4 years, and reduced by a third in subsequent years. Let ramblers ramble, and climbers climb! However more climbing canes will be produced if the original canes are bent or wound horizontally on their supports. Dead head frequently until mid October.
Transplanting is best done in the early spring of March/ April, keeping as much of the root ball intact as possible.
Alfalfa pellets or cubes are a great rose fertilizer. Use 3-4 per bush covered in manure, or soak to make alfalfa tea, starting at the end of April and ending by August the 1st. Epsom salts sprinkled once per month help green up the leaves, and ease the basal breaks of suckers. If showing, time the application for one week before the show, and prune stems to a 5-leaf leaflet.
Roses thrive on neglect so water infrequently i.e. a 3-5 gallon soak once per week is sufficient, and encourages deep roots. To avoid Black Spot be sure NOT to water overhead or at night. Recipe for Rust and Blackspot 1 gallon or 4.5L of water 1 tbsp baking soda 1 tbsp vegetable oil 1 squirt of mild dish soap Spray once every five days wherever you see evidence of disease.
To discourage pests and attract predators such as lacewings plant dill, parsley, fennel, wild carrot nearby. Aphids and sawflies can be handpicked, but if you're squeamish the following recipe works well. Recipe for Aphids: 1 gallon or 4.5L of water 7-8 crushed garlic cloves Place crushed garlic in water and let stand for 24 hours. Strain the mixture and spray where you see aphids. (Squishing them with your fingers is also an effective option)
For winter protection, mound pure black earth over the canes once the ground has frozen, and cover the earth with shredded autumn leaves away from the protruding canes. To prevent the leaves from being blown away cover the entire mound with composted manure. Once spring arrives worms will get to work mixing the leaves, manure, and black earth, and the mound will be reduced without having to remove it.
For more information visit the Canadian Rose Society: www.canadianrosesociety.org
Potluck Dinner - Monday, February 13, 2012
12/02/12 08:15 PM Filed in: Club News | Club Events
Hello Garden Club Members:
Here is the information for the February 13 Pot Luck Dinner:
• Doors open at 5:00pm - Dinner starts at 6:00pm
• Please bring your own plate, cutlery and mug and remember to put your name on your pot luck dish and serving utensil.
• Only Tea, Coffee and Water will be supplied.
NOTE: If you are planning to attend and have not let us know, could you please contact us.
We need to know the number of people coming in order to set up the proper amount of tables. Also, if you did sign up but forgot to mention that your partner or friend is coming as well let us know. All are welcome.
Here is the information for the February 13 Pot Luck Dinner:
• Doors open at 5:00pm - Dinner starts at 6:00pm
• Please bring your own plate, cutlery and mug and remember to put your name on your pot luck dish and serving utensil.
• Only Tea, Coffee and Water will be supplied.
NOTE: If you are planning to attend and have not let us know, could you please contact us.
We need to know the number of people coming in order to set up the proper amount of tables. Also, if you did sign up but forgot to mention that your partner or friend is coming as well let us know. All are welcome.
- Speaker is Cathy Kozma at 7:30 Topic is "The Importance of BEE-ing”. Cathy will have honey and soap for sale.
- Imagination Table - This month's theme for your floral arrangement entry is "Masks of Mardi Gras". The design must contain a mask with the floral components complementing the colours. No artificial plants allowed.
Richters Seminar: Farm Your Backyard!
07/02/12 05:42 AM Filed in: Area News
Free Seminar: Farm Your Backyard!
Spring is coming! Richters Herbs presents Arlene Hazzan Green, The Backyard Urban Farm Company
Date & Time: February 12, 2012: 2-3pm
Place: Richters: Map & Directions
Arlene Hazzan Green will show you how to turn your backyard into an oasis of healthy food -- a verdant picture of fresh veggies and herbs growing in raised beds and planters. You will learn how to build, plant and maintain beautiful and durable raised organic vegetable beds. Arlene is an urban farmer and television director with one foot in the dirt and one in high heels. Along with her husband Marc Green she founded The Backyard Urban Farm Company with the goal of igniting people’s passion for growing their own food. Together they design, install and maintain organic vegetable gardens in homes, schools and businesses in the Greater Toronto Area.
Spring is coming! Richters Herbs presents Arlene Hazzan Green, The Backyard Urban Farm Company
Date & Time: February 12, 2012: 2-3pm
Place: Richters: Map & Directions
Arlene Hazzan Green will show you how to turn your backyard into an oasis of healthy food -- a verdant picture of fresh veggies and herbs growing in raised beds and planters. You will learn how to build, plant and maintain beautiful and durable raised organic vegetable beds. Arlene is an urban farmer and television director with one foot in the dirt and one in high heels. Along with her husband Marc Green she founded The Backyard Urban Farm Company with the goal of igniting people’s passion for growing their own food. Together they design, install and maintain organic vegetable gardens in homes, schools and businesses in the Greater Toronto Area.
Richters Seminar: How to Plant a Vegetable Garden
07/02/12 05:14 AM Filed in: Area News
Special Free Full Day Seminar: How to Plant a Vegetable Garden
Spring is coming! Richters Herbs presents Marjorie Mason Hogue of Mason House Gardens
Date & Time: February 25, 2012: 10am-3pm
Place: Richters: Map & Directions
If you have never opened a seed packet or staked a tomato, Marjorie’s easy approach will get you on the right path right away.
This is a day-long event covering all aspects of vegetable gardening, from planning and plotting, planting and watering, to maintenance and harvest. You will learn when to start planning your garden, and how to allocate space for the veggies you want to grow. You’ll learn which seeds need to be started early and which can be sown later. You’ll learn how to sow, how to transplant, and how to care for veggie seedlings until they are ready to plant out in the garden. You’ll learn how prepare your garden for planting and how to improve the soil with compost. Marjorie will even cover companion planting and how plants can help each other to repel pests.
If you ever wanted to learn how to garden from a professional here is your opportunity! Marjorie has been a popular fixture on the local gardening scene for over 30 years. She and her son own and operate a specialty nursery near Uxbridge, Ontario (masonhousegardens.com). She also hosts a weekly radio program, Let’s Get Growing, and she is the author of an acclaimed book, Amazing Annuals. Bring your own bagged lunch. Refreshments will be served.
Spring is coming! Richters Herbs presents Marjorie Mason Hogue of Mason House Gardens
Date & Time: February 25, 2012: 10am-3pm
Place: Richters: Map & Directions
This is a day-long event covering all aspects of vegetable gardening, from planning and plotting, planting and watering, to maintenance and harvest. You will learn when to start planning your garden, and how to allocate space for the veggies you want to grow. You’ll learn which seeds need to be started early and which can be sown later. You’ll learn how to sow, how to transplant, and how to care for veggie seedlings until they are ready to plant out in the garden. You’ll learn how prepare your garden for planting and how to improve the soil with compost. Marjorie will even cover companion planting and how plants can help each other to repel pests.
If you ever wanted to learn how to garden from a professional here is your opportunity! Marjorie has been a popular fixture on the local gardening scene for over 30 years. She and her son own and operate a specialty nursery near Uxbridge, Ontario (masonhousegardens.com). She also hosts a weekly radio program, Let’s Get Growing, and she is the author of an acclaimed book, Amazing Annuals. Bring your own bagged lunch. Refreshments will be served.
Jane’s Walks Come to Oshawa in May
05/02/12 05:40 PM Filed in: Area News
from member Sally
Jane’s Walks Come to Oshawa - May 5 & 6, 2012
(Check Club Calendar for updates)
“Not TV or illegal drugs but the automobile has been the chief destroyer of American communities.” ― Jane Jacobs, The Dark Age Ahead
Jane Jacobs was born in the US in 1916 and she worked as a writer throughout her life. She moved to Toronto in 1968 due to her concern about the Vietnam War and her draft-age sons. Throughout her life, she fought the construction of highways that would cut towns in half. She was like the mouse who roared.
As a writer, housewife, mother and grandmother, she single-handedly revolutionized urban planning. She believed in communities for people planned by the people. Because of Jacobs, many distressed urban neighbourhoods throughout North America are more likely to be gentrified today than bulldozed for redevelopment. Jacobs believed that the “walkability” of a city was its main strength. The City of Toronto proclaimed Friday May 4, 2007, as Jane Jacobs Day in Toronto. Since then, people impassioned by their neighbourhoods have been holding Jane’s Walks throughout the world in 75 cities and 15 countries. The prestigious Rockefeller Foundation created the Jane Jacobs Medal in 2007, "to recognize individuals who have made a significant contribution to thinking about urban design in New York City". Most of all, Jane taught us to open our eyes.
This year the City of Oshawa will be participating in Jane’s Walks on May 5 and 6. The Oshawa Valley Botanical Gardens has been suggested as one of the sites for a walk. If you would be interested in helping put together a guided walk (1 to 2 hours in length) of the OVBG please .
See janeswalks.net for more info.
Jane’s Walks Come to Oshawa - May 5 & 6, 2012
(Check Club Calendar for updates)
Jane Jacobs was born in the US in 1916 and she worked as a writer throughout her life. She moved to Toronto in 1968 due to her concern about the Vietnam War and her draft-age sons. Throughout her life, she fought the construction of highways that would cut towns in half. She was like the mouse who roared.
As a writer, housewife, mother and grandmother, she single-handedly revolutionized urban planning. She believed in communities for people planned by the people. Because of Jacobs, many distressed urban neighbourhoods throughout North America are more likely to be gentrified today than bulldozed for redevelopment. Jacobs believed that the “walkability” of a city was its main strength. The City of Toronto proclaimed Friday May 4, 2007, as Jane Jacobs Day in Toronto. Since then, people impassioned by their neighbourhoods have been holding Jane’s Walks throughout the world in 75 cities and 15 countries. The prestigious Rockefeller Foundation created the Jane Jacobs Medal in 2007, "to recognize individuals who have made a significant contribution to thinking about urban design in New York City". Most of all, Jane taught us to open our eyes.
This year the City of Oshawa will be participating in Jane’s Walks on May 5 and 6. The Oshawa Valley Botanical Gardens has been suggested as one of the sites for a walk. If you would be interested in helping put together a guided walk (1 to 2 hours in length) of the OVBG please .
See janeswalks.net for more info.
Durham Region Compost Giveaway
05/02/12 01:07 PM Filed in: Area News
Mark this on your calendar:
To thank the community for its participation in The Regional Municipality of Durham's organics collection programs, residents are invited in April to pick up compost to use on their lawns and gardens, free of charge. See Club Calendar for Oshawa: April 28, 2012.
more information
To thank the community for its participation in The Regional Municipality of Durham's organics collection programs, residents are invited in April to pick up compost to use on their lawns and gardens, free of charge. See Club Calendar for Oshawa: April 28, 2012.
more information
Digital Art Gallery Image of the Year
05/02/12 12:33 PM Filed in: Area News
Jackie writes the following about her winning photo: I picked this milkweed pod and brought it indoors to see what would happen. To my amazement it opened up and was ready to spread the seeds as if it was left in the wild. I was careful not to touch any of the seeds and photographed it indoors using a white wall as a background. Since it was on a white background it was a perfect candidate to add textures. I liked the effect as it looked like the seed pods were floating in clouds or blowing in the wind. I still have it and I am hoping to sprout the seeds and maybe attract some Monarch butterflies this year.
Congratulations, Jackie!
District 17 Photographic Competition
05/02/12 12:25 PM Filed in: Area News | Garden Shows & Tours
Photographic Competition April 28, 2012, hosted by Cannington Horticultural Society
1. This competition is open to all paid up members of OHA District 17, Durham.
2. Exhibitors may enter one print per class.
3. The exhibitor must take all entries.
4. Prints must be digital or film in origin. Photographs to include natural and horticultural subjects.
5. Prints to be taken during the last 24 months (from date of entry deadline).
7. Names of exhibitors and winners will be posted with the AGM Photographic Competition display.
more information
1. This competition is open to all paid up members of OHA District 17, Durham.
2. Exhibitors may enter one print per class.
3. The exhibitor must take all entries.
4. Prints must be digital or film in origin. Photographs to include natural and horticultural subjects.
5. Prints to be taken during the last 24 months (from date of entry deadline).
7. Names of exhibitors and winners will be posted with the AGM Photographic Competition display.
more information
District 17 AGM and Flower Show
05/02/12 12:04 PM Filed in: Area News | Garden Shows & Tours
On behalf of the Ontario Horticultural Association District 17, Cannington Horticultural Society Invites you to THE ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING AND FLOWER SHOW When: April 28, 2012
Where: McCaskill’s Mills Public School, 85 Albert St, Cannington, ON L0E 1E0
Time: 9:30 am
Entry Fee: $25.00
Guest Speaker: Trish Symons
Morning Presentation: The Joys and Hazards of a Large Country Garden
Afternoon Presentation: Floral Design - A demonstration on conditioning and the creation of two designs.
PLEASE JOIN US AS WE LOOK “Beyond the Garden Gate”
more information
Sacajawea Tours - British Gardens 2012
05/02/12 08:25 AM Filed in: Area News | Garden Shows & Tours
Sacajawea Tours - British Gardens 2012
SUSSEX SURREY & KENT: April 27- May 4:
This tour and the following can be done back to back. Gardens to include: Nymans, Great Dixter, Sissinghurst, Perch Hill Farm: Sarah Raven’s Cutting Garden, Denman’s Garden
COTSWOLDS & WILTSHIRE: May 4- May 11:
Gardens to include: Hidcote and Kiftsgate, Buscot Park, Sudley Castle, Rodmarton, Westonbirton Arboretum and Iford Manor
SUSSEX SURREY & KENT: Sept 21 – Oct 5:
This tour will include gardens from our first spring tour along with others spectacular in autumn.
more information
Humber Nurseries Exclusive Offer to OGC Members
05/02/12 08:08 AM Filed in: Area News
Humber Nurseries is offering discounts for Oshawa Garden Club members. Your current membership card and a form available at the meetings is necessary for this sale. Here’s a link to they’re Brampton location.
Historic Gardens Showcase 2012
28/01/12 11:32 AM Filed in: Area News
The National Historic Sites Alliance for Ontario (NHSAO), along with Parkwood NHS and Gardens Ontario Coalition, has embarked on a project to showcase Ontario’s historic gardens in 2012 – with the aim of promoting collaboration amongst these gardens and capitalizing on new tourism investment opportunities.
Historic gardens fly way under the tourism radar. For many gardens, their stories often play second fiddle to buildings and collections and they are seldom promoted for their own worth as historic and horticultural resources.
more information (see page 6 PDF)
Historic gardens fly way under the tourism radar. For many gardens, their stories often play second fiddle to buildings and collections and they are seldom promoted for their own worth as historic and horticultural resources.
more information (see page 6 PDF)
Durham Master Gardeners
28/01/12 10:46 AM Filed in: Area News
The Durham Region Chapter of Master Gardeners of Ontario
The online home of Durham Master Gardeners. Information about the group, its members, scheduled events and articles about all things gardening-related.
Durham Master Gardeners
The online home of Durham Master Gardeners. Information about the group, its members, scheduled events and articles about all things gardening-related.
Durham Master Gardeners
Toronto Botanical Gardens: Tropical Getaway
28/01/12 10:09 AM Filed in: Garden Shows & Tours
Details: Wednesday, February 16, 7:30 to 9 p.m. - Public $30/Members $22
see club calendar
Come experience the delights of the tropics without having to venture too far from home. Chase away the winter blues as you mingle and mix with other plant lovers. Marvel at exotic foliage, the fragrance of flowers and warm, moist soil, and water features complete with tropical fish–it’s all here at the Allan Gardens Conservatory.
Join TBG’s Director of Horticulture, Paul Zammit, and a plant expert from Allan Gardens as they guide you through this historic paradise. Rare plants from all over the globe are nurtured inside six greenhouses covering 16,000 square feet, and include an impressive permanent plant collection comprising orchids, hibiscus, cacti, caladiums, Madacascar tropical pines, palms and more, as well as choice seasonal plants. Enjoy tropical treats and other light refreshments.
more information
see club calendar
Come experience the delights of the tropics without having to venture too far from home. Chase away the winter blues as you mingle and mix with other plant lovers. Marvel at exotic foliage, the fragrance of flowers and warm, moist soil, and water features complete with tropical fish–it’s all here at the Allan Gardens Conservatory.
Join TBG’s Director of Horticulture, Paul Zammit, and a plant expert from Allan Gardens as they guide you through this historic paradise. Rare plants from all over the globe are nurtured inside six greenhouses covering 16,000 square feet, and include an impressive permanent plant collection comprising orchids, hibiscus, cacti, caladiums, Madacascar tropical pines, palms and more, as well as choice seasonal plants. Enjoy tropical treats and other light refreshments.
more information
Commemoration of the War of 1812 - Plant Red Geraniums!
28/01/12 09:39 AM Filed in: Area News
During 2012, as a reminder of the Commemoration of the War of 1812, organizers are asking communities and residents to plant Red Geraniums as an acknowledgement of the sacrifices and losses suffered during the defence of what would become Canada.
more information
Seedy Saturday Pickering
28/01/12 09:14 AM Filed in: Garden Shows & Tours
Details: Saturday, February 4, 2012 - 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
see club calendar
Local and Heritage plant displays, guest speakers and seminars, including live birds of prey, Seeds for Swap or Sale, and Seedy Cafe. Oshawa Garden Club will have a membership table at the show.Hosted by Bloomers & Britches, the heritage gardeners of Pickering Museum Village, Seedy Saturday features garden-related vendors, guest speakers and of course, the chance to swap your seeds! Admission is $3 per person at the door.
more information
see club calendar
Local and Heritage plant displays, guest speakers and seminars, including live birds of prey, Seeds for Swap or Sale, and Seedy Cafe. Oshawa Garden Club will have a membership table at the show.Hosted by Bloomers & Britches, the heritage gardeners of Pickering Museum Village, Seedy Saturday features garden-related vendors, guest speakers and of course, the chance to swap your seeds! Admission is $3 per person at the door.
more information
Guelph Organic Conference 2012
28/01/12 08:50 AM Filed in: Garden Shows & Tours
Details: January 26 – 29, 2012 - Guelph, Ontario
see club calendar
About the Guelph Conference:
Celebrating its 31st year, the 2012 event includes international speakers, seminars & intro workshops on key topics including: micro-farming, organic production/certification, changing climates, earth changes, farm training, food security. From producer to consumer, the workshops offer something for everyone. PLUS, there is an Organic Expo/Tasting Fair with 150+ exhibitors (includes about 25-30 food samplers) on Saturday/Sunday, free to the public. This is your opportunity to sample and purchase a wealth of organic, fair trade products. Meet the movers and shakers in local organic.
more information
Hosta Forum in Burlington
28/01/12 08:35 AM Filed in: Garden Shows & Tours
THE ONTARIO HOSTA SOCIETY In conjunction with THE ROYAL BOTANICAL GARDENS
Details: Sunday, April 1, 2012 - 9:00 am to 4:00 pm - Registration begins at 8:30 am
see club calendar
Cost: $60 - Includes light lunch & beverages
Includes 4 fabulous speakers, Live Auction, a light lunch/ beverages/home baking! Prizes! Great Friends!
more information
Details: Sunday, April 1, 2012 - 9:00 am to 4:00 pm - Registration begins at 8:30 am
see club calendar
Cost: $60 - Includes light lunch & beverages
Includes 4 fabulous speakers, Live Auction, a light lunch/ beverages/home baking! Prizes! Great Friends!
more information
Master Gardeners at Canada Blooms
22/01/12 02:13 AM Filed in: Garden Shows & Tours
Don't forget to stop by the Master Gardener advice clinics and listen to expert speakers at the Canada Blooms advice clinics. Or find out how you too could become a Master Gardener. Give yourself the gift that keeps on giving: get to know your local Master Gardener. Help is waiting!
Check out the Master Gardener's site at: www.mgoi.ca
Check out the Master Gardener's site at: www.mgoi.ca
Photography Competition at Canada Blooms 2012
22/01/12 02:08 AM Filed in: Garden Shows & Tours
Look what's new! The first-ever Photography Competition at Canada Blooms 2012 is a great place to showcase your talents.
Any amateur photographer may enter. Photos must have been taken in Canada in the last year and should fit into one of the following categories: Seasons, Flora, At Work or Play, or Reflections of The City. As many entries as possible will be displayed in the Garden Hall.
Deadline to submit entries is February 15, 2012. For detailed information, see the Photography Competition Schedule and follow the link provided to the Photography entry form. Find out more about the Garden Hall Competition.
Any amateur photographer may enter. Photos must have been taken in Canada in the last year and should fit into one of the following categories: Seasons, Flora, At Work or Play, or Reflections of The City. As many entries as possible will be displayed in the Garden Hall.
Deadline to submit entries is February 15, 2012. For detailed information, see the Photography Competition Schedule and follow the link provided to the Photography entry form. Find out more about the Garden Hall Competition.
Daffodil receives honours as official flower for Canada Blooms 2012
22/01/12 01:57 AM Filed in: Garden Shows & Tours
see club calendar
Control Method for Emerald Ash Borer Discovered
01/01/12 05:24 PM Filed in: Garden Articles
by Laurie Saulnier, Natural Resources Canada - Communications and Marketing Branch
A tiny green insect is wreaking havoc on ash trees across Canada and the United States. The emerald ash borer has killed millions of ash trees since it was first detected in North America in 2002.
Native to Asia, the emerald ash borer was likely transported to North America in woody material used in shipping containers. Its spread has been facilitated by the movement of firewood and planting stock. To date, the emerald ash borer has been identified in at least 13 U.S. states and two Canadian provinces.
Control options are limited for this insect, and forest managers have adopted a management strategy to slow its spread through tree removal, restrictions on the movement of materials from infested areas, and by injecting certain trees with an insecticide.
To help further stem the spread of the pest, researchers at the Canadian Forest Service (CFS) have turned to pheromones as a safer, more effective alternative. Pheromones are natural compounds or chemical signals that species use to communicate with members of the same species.
By identifying and synthesizing an insect pheromone in the lab, it can then be used to disrupt the insect’s mating cycle or lure it into traps. In this way, insect populations can be reduced. Since pheromones naturally occur and are species-specific, they are safe and natural pest control mechanisms that pose no danger to humans and other animals.
Unlocking a chemical mystery
In a paper published in August 2011 in Environmental Entomology, researchers Dr. Peter Silk and Dr. Krista Ryall provide the first evidence of a sex pheromone in the female emerald ash borer that attracts the male.
They found that when the pheromone is placed in green traps with a green leaf volatile (the chemical a tree emits when stressed) the trap catch of the male emerald ash borer increased by at least 50%, and in some cases up to 100%. By discovering and synthesizing this pheromone, the researchers believe they have uncovered a way to improve detection methods and management tools for the insect.
Pheromone research a complex problem
Peter emphasizes the complexity of pheromone research. “We first have to identify the insect pheromone which is not easy considering each insect species has unique pheromones. And then, to synthesize it, we have to break it down chemically which presents its own challenges because a million millionth of a gram is difficult to detect.”
“This pheromone is the icing on the cake of a large body of emerald ash borer research,” says Peter. “By bringing together all of the research done to date by CFS across the country and other organizations, we are able to test the pheromone in the field under optimal conditions to get maximum trap catch. The results are very positive.”
For more information on the insects and diseases in Canada's forests, visit NRCan’s Insects and Diseases.
Native to Asia, the emerald ash borer was likely transported to North America in woody material used in shipping containers. Its spread has been facilitated by the movement of firewood and planting stock. To date, the emerald ash borer has been identified in at least 13 U.S. states and two Canadian provinces.
Control options are limited for this insect, and forest managers have adopted a management strategy to slow its spread through tree removal, restrictions on the movement of materials from infested areas, and by injecting certain trees with an insecticide.
To help further stem the spread of the pest, researchers at the Canadian Forest Service (CFS) have turned to pheromones as a safer, more effective alternative. Pheromones are natural compounds or chemical signals that species use to communicate with members of the same species.
By identifying and synthesizing an insect pheromone in the lab, it can then be used to disrupt the insect’s mating cycle or lure it into traps. In this way, insect populations can be reduced. Since pheromones naturally occur and are species-specific, they are safe and natural pest control mechanisms that pose no danger to humans and other animals.
Unlocking a chemical mystery
In a paper published in August 2011 in Environmental Entomology, researchers Dr. Peter Silk and Dr. Krista Ryall provide the first evidence of a sex pheromone in the female emerald ash borer that attracts the male.
They found that when the pheromone is placed in green traps with a green leaf volatile (the chemical a tree emits when stressed) the trap catch of the male emerald ash borer increased by at least 50%, and in some cases up to 100%. By discovering and synthesizing this pheromone, the researchers believe they have uncovered a way to improve detection methods and management tools for the insect.
Pheromone research a complex problem
Peter emphasizes the complexity of pheromone research. “We first have to identify the insect pheromone which is not easy considering each insect species has unique pheromones. And then, to synthesize it, we have to break it down chemically which presents its own challenges because a million millionth of a gram is difficult to detect.”
“This pheromone is the icing on the cake of a large body of emerald ash borer research,” says Peter. “By bringing together all of the research done to date by CFS across the country and other organizations, we are able to test the pheromone in the field under optimal conditions to get maximum trap catch. The results are very positive.”
For more information on the insects and diseases in Canada's forests, visit NRCan’s Insects and Diseases.
Agastaches
01/01/12 05:18 PM Filed in: Garden Articles
by fellow gardener, Ted Brown
Fellow Garden Club Members, I have my favourite plants, but find it a difficult task to narrow my choice down to just one plant or genus of plants. That said, if I must, I choose agastaches, pronounced (ah-gas-TAH-kee), or hyssops, for those who prefer common names rather than botanical terms.
Now, while I love the entire family of plants, I’m especially proud of and in love with one particular hyssop that is the result of a naturally selective cross between agastache cana and agastache scrophular-iifolia. I grew both of those from seed and now I’ve got lots of crosses happening. Surprisingly, both of those are 3’ x 3’ plants and yet my cross had soared to 7’ x 7’. Actually, the mother plant has been a show stopper for several years until it started to deteriorate badly and I was forced to take a couple of divisions which are doing well whereas the mother is no more, may she rest in peace. The photo above shows the original and the newbies.
Now, while I love the entire family of plants, I’m especially proud of and in love with one particular hyssop that is the result of a naturally selective cross between agastache cana and agastache scrophular-iifolia. I grew both of those from seed and now I’ve got lots of crosses happening. Surprisingly, both of those are 3’ x 3’ plants and yet my cross had soared to 7’ x 7’. Actually, the mother plant has been a show stopper for several years until it started to deteriorate badly and I was forced to take a couple of divisions which are doing well whereas the mother is no more, may she rest in peace. The photo above shows the original and the newbies.
As for why I love her, check out the photo of the mother plant and try to count the monarchs. This plant routinely has 50 to 100 butterflies on it so, as you approach, you become engulfed in a cloud of these beautiful creatures. And hummers, they go berserk on this hyssop. Add to that the fact that this is a xeric plant, meaning that you would rarely need to water, and it blooms all summer and it absolutely is a winner in my book.
Pooktre Tree Shapers
01/01/12 04:46 PM Filed in: Garden Articles
more information
Recreating Eden TV Show
01/01/12 04:35 PM Filed in: Area News
Seasons 1 through 5 of the popular gardening show are now available on DVD at Merit Motion Pictures. The production company has given a free DVD to our club, which is in our library now. The first episode is "The Renegade Scientist" with Dr. Diana Beresford-Kroeger and the second episode is about container gardening, titled "You Grow Girl" with Gayla Trail.
Recreating Eden TV Show
Recreating Eden TV Show
Durham Organic Gardeners
01/01/12 04:33 PM Filed in: Area News
Meetings on the 4th Wednesday of the month, Sept. to May at 7:30 pm - Durham District School Board Admin. Building - 400 Taunton Road East, Whitby, Ontario (west of Anderson Street, east of Brock/Baldwin) Room 2007 (2nd floor, front of the building)
Durham Organic Gardeners
Durham Organic Gardeners
Canada Blooms Newsletter
01/01/12 04:32 PM Filed in: Garden Shows & Tours
For an exclusive peek at Canada Blooms the Flower & Garden Festival newsletter. (PDF document 55 KB)
Canada Blooms Newsletter
Canada Blooms Newsletter
OHA Trillium e-Subscription
01/01/12 04:30 PM Filed in: Area News
Linda Hugli at the OHA has advised that our members can be added to the e-Subscription list by contacting the Trillium Editor.
OHA Trillium e-Subscription
OHA Winter 2011/2012 Trillium Newsletter
01/01/12 04:29 PM Filed in: Area News
See the Ontario Horticultural Association's Trillium newsletter. (PDF document 4.5 MB)
OHA Winter 2011/2012 Trillium Newsletter
OHA Winter 2011/2012 Trillium Newsletter
Durham Region Orchid Society (DROS)
01/01/12 04:12 PM Filed in: Area News
Meetings 3rd Sunday of each month 2:00 p.m. to 4 p.m. - Fernhill Community Centre, 144 Fernhill Ave., Oshawa
Join to learn more about the wonderful world of orchids. There are guest speakers, repotting workshops, often supplies and orchids for sale and refreshments. For more info Anne. Durham Region Orchid Society (DROS)
Join to learn more about the wonderful world of orchids. There are guest speakers, repotting workshops, often supplies and orchids for sale and refreshments. For more info Anne. Durham Region Orchid Society (DROS)
Parkwood Launches a Series of Tea Talks
01/01/12 04:09 PM Filed in: Area News
with Natalie Gilday of Honey & Tea Café
January 21, from 2 to 4pm
Natalie Gilday will be hosting a series of Tea Talks at Parkwood National Historic Site over the next few months. The first of the series, Tea Around the World, is an introductory workshop in which Natalie will present the different kinds of tea, and how different cultures cultivate, and use tea on a daily or ceremonial basis. If you are interested in learning about the differences between white, black and green tea, or are just interested in learning about the way different cultures interpret and use tea, this is a perfect introductory session which will include tastings.
Parkwood Launches a Series of Tea Talks
January 21, from 2 to 4pm
Natalie Gilday will be hosting a series of Tea Talks at Parkwood National Historic Site over the next few months. The first of the series, Tea Around the World, is an introductory workshop in which Natalie will present the different kinds of tea, and how different cultures cultivate, and use tea on a daily or ceremonial basis. If you are interested in learning about the differences between white, black and green tea, or are just interested in learning about the way different cultures interpret and use tea, this is a perfect introductory session which will include tastings.
Parkwood Launches a Series of Tea Talks
Fusion Landscaping Guide for Homeowners
01/01/12 04:05 PM Filed in: Area News
Durham Region's free 20 page colour booklet can be requested by mail, fax or e-mail from: Durham Region Works Department: watereffiecientdurham@durham.ca
Those interested should be sure to include their name, address and postal code when ordering.
Fusion Landscaping Guide for Homeowners (page 7 of PDF)
Those interested should be sure to include their name, address and postal code when ordering.
Fusion Landscaping Guide for Homeowners (page 7 of PDF)
2011 OGC Christmas Social
05/12/11 11:54 PM Filed in: Club Events
December 5, 2011
from member Pat
The 2011 Christmas Social was a wonderful event to end the year for the garden club members. It was great fun, the scrumptious food, lively entertainment, Christmas games and prizes made for a really enjoyable evening. The committee thanks the garden club members who came out to support this event, for their donation to the Sweet and Savoury potluck and the food drive for Simcoe Hall Settlement House.
“Sentimental Journey” was the lively entertainment for the evening, they played a variety of music that actually enticed a few people to get up and dance.
The Santa Costume game was the hit of the evening. Each table dressed a Santa with limited supplies and all the costumes were fantastic. It was very hard for the committee judges to select the best Santa. The best Santa was from table 7; each person at that table received a prize for their creative work. Each of the Santa’s took home the poinsettia that was the centre piece on their table.
The evening ended with the draw for the lovely Gift Basket, as well as a Chocolate Sleigh and a Poinsettia.
Thanks to everyone who made this evening possible.
Check out our 2011 Christmas Social photos.
from member Pat
“Sentimental Journey” was the lively entertainment for the evening, they played a variety of music that actually enticed a few people to get up and dance.
The evening ended with the draw for the lovely Gift Basket, as well as a Chocolate Sleigh and a Poinsettia.
Thanks to everyone who made this evening possible.
Check out our 2011 Christmas Social photos.
Layering Spring Bulbs in Pots
01/12/11 05:24 PM Filed in: Garden Tips
from member Karen Sciuk
For the best possible display of spring bulbs in pots, the technique of planting in layers is a good one and can produce a display of flowers possibly March to May. Also we would need to recommend storing the pots in a cold garage or garden shed. Alternatively, the bulbs could be stored in the cold/dark until February and then planted. This article from the Telegraph in the UK explains the process, but please note the seasonal differences.
For the best possible display of spring bulbs in pots, the technique of planting in layers is a good one and can produce a display of flowers possibly March to May. Also we would need to recommend storing the pots in a cold garage or garden shed. Alternatively, the bulbs could be stored in the cold/dark until February and then planted. This article from the Telegraph in the UK explains the process, but please note the seasonal differences.
The Toronto Gardener’s Journal & Source Book 2012
01/12/11 05:03 PM Filed in: Garden Tips
Where to get what
A god-send for hardiness zones 5, 6 and 7
A day-timer
Makes a great gift
“More useful than any tool in the shed.”
“The best journal I’ve ever seen”—Charlie Dobbin, host of AM 740’s the Garden and Home Show
The Journal includes:
• Calendar for 2012, including spring & fall frost dates
• Frost maps of Southwestern Ontario
• Weekly log with gardening guide
• Index of weekly gardening guide
• Graph paper for garden plans
• Section to record buying, sowing, planting, and harvest
• Pages for photos
• Monthly delights, disappointments, next year
• Blank pages for notes
To order a copy for delivery, go here.
Choose the Perfect Christmas Tree
01/12/11 04:53 PM Filed in: Garden Tips
Poinsettias: From Mexican Shrub to Holiday Star
01/12/11 04:52 PM Filed in: Garden Tips
"Healing Hands", Therapeutic Gardening Project
01/12/11 09:09 AM Filed in: Club News
Plant Donations
01/12/11 09:03 AM Filed in: Club News
The club would like to thank Loblaw Superstore, Gibb St., Oshawa for their generous donation of plant material for the Hosta Garden at the Oshawa Valley Botanical Gardens (OVBG) and for our plant sale next year. We also acknowledge members Maria and Bonnie for their plant donations to OVBG.
November Presentation: Alliums
14/11/11 10:59 PM Filed in: Club Events | Garden Articles
November 14, 2011
from member Karen Sciuk
Mary Hinton and Susan Shepherd, two of our Durham Master Gardeners, discussed many interesting facts about both edible and ornamental alliums.
This diverse genus that includes garlic ( A. sativum ), chives ( A. schoenoprasum ), onions ( A. cepa ) and leeks ( A. ampeloprasum ), as well as those grown just for their striking globe-like flowers ( A. caeruleum, A. hollandicum, etc.), are all ultimately edible. Although we tend to think of them planted in the rows of a vegetable garden, or in punctuating clumps of a formal perennial border ( A. sphaerocephalon, A. giganteum x A. stipitatum), they also lend themselves well to the drifts of a naturalized garden ( A. moly, A. zebdaneanse ) or the rock garden ( A. cernuum), even in containers ( A. karataviense ) or a Japanese garden ( A. senescens spp. glaucum).
They are low maintenance, despite needing regular watering and the reduced competition of a weed free area, due to their disease and pest resistance. An added bonus is their resistance to deer, and their attractiveness to bees and butterflies. They even make lovely cut and dried flowers ( A. christophii, A. caeruleum ).
from member Karen Sciuk
Mary Hinton and Susan Shepherd, two of our Durham Master Gardeners, discussed many interesting facts about both edible and ornamental alliums.
This diverse genus that includes garlic ( A. sativum ), chives ( A. schoenoprasum ), onions ( A. cepa ) and leeks ( A. ampeloprasum ), as well as those grown just for their striking globe-like flowers ( A. caeruleum, A. hollandicum, etc.), are all ultimately edible. Although we tend to think of them planted in the rows of a vegetable garden, or in punctuating clumps of a formal perennial border ( A. sphaerocephalon, A. giganteum x A. stipitatum), they also lend themselves well to the drifts of a naturalized garden ( A. moly, A. zebdaneanse ) or the rock garden ( A. cernuum), even in containers ( A. karataviense ) or a Japanese garden ( A. senescens spp. glaucum).
They are low maintenance, despite needing regular watering and the reduced competition of a weed free area, due to their disease and pest resistance. An added bonus is their resistance to deer, and their attractiveness to bees and butterflies. They even make lovely cut and dried flowers ( A. christophii, A. caeruleum ).
New Board and Committee Members Elected
14/11/11 10:00 PM Filed in: Club News
Please welcome the new Board and Committee members elected to the OGC at the November AGM.
more information
more information
Richter on Government Policy re: Invasive Plants
01/11/11 05:12 PM Filed in: Garden Articles
Richter's and other nurseries which might wish to invest in slightly more exotic species or even preserve what bio-diversity we have left will feel the impact of these regulations. This link will take you to Conrad Richter's blog on the subject:
Invasive Plant Policy
Invasive Plant Policy
Native trees for 80th Planting
01/11/11 05:10 PM Filed in: Garden Tips | Garden Articles
from member Karen Sciuk
Some good examples:
Eastern White Pine - Ontario's Provincial tree
Red Maple
Sugar Maple
Cucumber Tree - on the Ontario endangered list, avoid frost pockets
Butternut - endangered list, good upland tree, contains juglens so plant to stand alone
Bitternut - good upland tree, needs dry soil
Shagbark Hickory - attractive bark, needs warm site
Shellbark Hickory - good upland tree
Kentucky Coffee Tree - endangered list, needs warm site
American Chestnut - endangered list, find blight resistant specimen
Shumard Oak - endangered list, may be too tender in Durham
These are great links for info on threatened or endangered species in Ontario:
Recommended List of Trees and Shrubs for University of Waterloo Plantings: uwaterloo.ca
Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources Species at Risk: mnr.gov.ca
Green Side Up in and Grow Wild, both in Omeemee, have some of these species:
Green Side Up Native Plant Nursery: greenservices.ca
Grow Wild native Plant Nursery: grow-wild.com
Some good examples:
Eastern White Pine - Ontario's Provincial tree
Red Maple
Sugar Maple
Cucumber Tree - on the Ontario endangered list, avoid frost pockets
Butternut - endangered list, good upland tree, contains juglens so plant to stand alone
Bitternut - good upland tree, needs dry soil
Shagbark Hickory - attractive bark, needs warm site
Shellbark Hickory - good upland tree
Kentucky Coffee Tree - endangered list, needs warm site
American Chestnut - endangered list, find blight resistant specimen
Shumard Oak - endangered list, may be too tender in Durham
These are great links for info on threatened or endangered species in Ontario:
Recommended List of Trees and Shrubs for University of Waterloo Plantings: uwaterloo.ca
Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources Species at Risk: mnr.gov.ca
Green Side Up in and Grow Wild, both in Omeemee, have some of these species:
Green Side Up Native Plant Nursery: greenservices.ca
Grow Wild native Plant Nursery: grow-wild.com
Keep Your Paperwhites Upright
01/11/11 04:59 PM Filed in: Garden Tips
Stop your beautiful forced blooms from tipping over with this neat (and unexpected) trick.
more information
more information
Communities in Bloom
18/10/11 10:34 PM Filed in: Garden Shows & Tours | Garden Articles
from Linda Wylie - Board Rep. for CIB
On October 18, the City of Oshawa hosted the 2011 Communities in Bloom/Garden of the Week Awards and Recognition Evening at the Jubilee Pavilion.
Several OGC members were honoured as GOTW recipients. They were Ted and Donna, Grace, Joan, Grace, Maggie (for her cul de sac), Marg, Anne and Terry. They each received an Award certificate, a photo of their garden and a photo of themselves with Mayor John Henry. The permanent PREMIER GARDEN sign is awarded in the year that recipients have won 4 out of the last 5 years. These gardens are retired from the annual program. Members with these signs are: Faye, Jack and Jackie, “Pat’s Garden” and added this year, Cardinal Court. Congratulations to everyone! Your contribution to the beautification of our city is appreciated.
As a partner in the city’s Communities in Blooms Program, OGC provides volunteers for the program. This year, forty-seven (47) of our members took part, which represents half of the total volunteers recruited. They scouted for gardens, installed signs, photographed the gardens, performed administrative duties and assisted with the Awards Evening. They each received a certificate and group photo. Thank you everyone for supporting our club by participating in this long-running civic program.
Resoures:
City of Oshawa Communities In Bloom - Garden of the Week Overview
Photo gallery of Garden of the Week winners
On October 18, the City of Oshawa hosted the 2011 Communities in Bloom/Garden of the Week Awards and Recognition Evening at the Jubilee Pavilion.
Several OGC members were honoured as GOTW recipients. They were Ted and Donna, Grace, Joan, Grace, Maggie (for her cul de sac), Marg, Anne and Terry. They each received an Award certificate, a photo of their garden and a photo of themselves with Mayor John Henry. The permanent PREMIER GARDEN sign is awarded in the year that recipients have won 4 out of the last 5 years. These gardens are retired from the annual program. Members with these signs are: Faye, Jack and Jackie, “Pat’s Garden” and added this year, Cardinal Court. Congratulations to everyone! Your contribution to the beautification of our city is appreciated.
As a partner in the city’s Communities in Blooms Program, OGC provides volunteers for the program. This year, forty-seven (47) of our members took part, which represents half of the total volunteers recruited. They scouted for gardens, installed signs, photographed the gardens, performed administrative duties and assisted with the Awards Evening. They each received a certificate and group photo. Thank you everyone for supporting our club by participating in this long-running civic program.
Resoures:
City of Oshawa Communities In Bloom - Garden of the Week Overview
Photo gallery of Garden of the Week winners
October Presentation by Charlie Dobbin - “The Big Chill”
17/10/11 10:01 PM Filed in: Club Events | Garden Articles
October 17, 2011
from member Karen Sciuk
Charlie Dobbin, host of 'The Garden Show', Zoomer Radio 740 AM, and former co-host of 'One Garden Two Looks', HGTV, entertained us with an informative checklist of the annually necessary tasks for preparing our gardens for the winter:
from member Karen Sciuk
- Over-seed/reseed grass in September
- Mow 1.5” short, and mulch or bag fall leaves, to discourage winter mould
- Top-dress lawns with 1” top soil, triple mix, or compost and a high P- root stimulating fertilizer as late as November
- Leave tender perennials but decompose annuals by chopping in-situ or removing to composter
- Cut back perennials that are prone to mushiness but leave seed heads for the birds and winter interest
- Lift tender bulbs, let air dry, wrap in peat/ newspaper and store in a dark, cool, frost-free area e.g. Cannas, Callas, Begonias, Dahlias
- Plant spring bulbs: Narcissus and Allium early, Tulips as late as November; out-smart the squirrels by planting deep, covering with planks once frozen, chicken-wire mats
- Wrap dark barked tree trunks and those with SW exposure to protect from winter sun-scald
- Give evergreens a deep late water to protect them from winter dehydration, every 7-10 days if the winter is mild
- Loosely wrap only those evergreens exposed to salt spray or extremely harsh winter winds
- Shade Rhododendrons, Azaleas, Pieris if not planted as an understory
- Wait now to prune trees and shrubs until dormant in November-December, or next February-March our late winter/ early spring
- Mulch root zones of trees, shrubs, perennials after a few hard frosts and the ground is frozen
- Disinfect pots and repair, repaint, sharpen tools
- Roses are drought tolerant once established, and love a hot S or W wall; they thrive on neglect!
- Prevent Black Spot, a soil-born fungus, by mulching to minimize splashing onto foliage
- In our zone bury the graft union of Hybrid Teas, Grandifloras, Floribundas at least 2” below soil surface at planting; this ensures that the grafted portion survives winter-kill; pile protective mulch only after ground is frozen
- Prune grafted varieties: 18” or to the “knees” after a hard fall frost, and to the “ankles” in the spring
- Prune shrub roses back to 2-3', either after a hard fall frost or late winter/ early spring
- Prune climbers and ramblers only to avoid winter wind damage
- Prune for good air circulation
Love the Fall
01/10/11 05:15 PM Filed in: Garden Articles
by fellow gardener, Ted Brown
Folks, had to share a few photos. I love this time of year, the leaves are turning, there’s a buzz in the air, especially in the cool stillness of the evening hours. Unfortunately, the hummers are all about gone, the monarchs are merely wayward stragglers and the only real presence are the white butterflies and plenty of bees. 
The birds are a treat to watch right now, too. They’re really putting on a feed bag, eating up seeds if you’ve got the right plants and, I’m sure, we all do. So, hope you enjoy.
The birds are a treat to watch right now, too. They’re really putting on a feed bag, eating up seeds if you’ve got the right plants and, I’m sure, we all do. So, hope you enjoy.
Alpaca Fertilizer
01/10/11 05:11 PM Filed in: Garden Tips
from member Garry Lucas
Spinning Wheel Alpacas has advised OGC that one of the best things for the garden is alpaca manure. The animals are not exposed to any harsh chemicals. The manure is lower in organic matter than manure from other farm animals which results in less risk of burning plants. It also has comparatively high levels of nitrogen and potassium which are major plant nutrients and part of the well-known N-P-K indicator on fertilizer bags.
Prices:
50lb. pre-bagged - $7.00, 4 or more 50 lb. bags, $5.00 each.
Trailer load (you shovel) - $50
Trailer load (we shovel) - $70
Contact:
Nancy Hutchinson
Spinning Wheel Alpacas
1857 Regional Road #3
Enniskillen, ON L0B 1J0
905-261-4240
email: alpacas@xplornet.com
Spinning Wheel Alpacas has advised OGC that one of the best things for the garden is alpaca manure. The animals are not exposed to any harsh chemicals. The manure is lower in organic matter than manure from other farm animals which results in less risk of burning plants. It also has comparatively high levels of nitrogen and potassium which are major plant nutrients and part of the well-known N-P-K indicator on fertilizer bags.
Prices:
50lb. pre-bagged - $7.00, 4 or more 50 lb. bags, $5.00 each.
Trailer load (you shovel) - $50
Trailer load (we shovel) - $70
Contact:
Nancy Hutchinson
Spinning Wheel Alpacas
1857 Regional Road #3
Enniskillen, ON L0B 1J0
905-261-4240
email: alpacas@xplornet.com
Hearth Place October 2011
01/10/11 09:05 AM Filed in: Club News
Putting the Hearth Place Garden to bed for the season
OGC volunteers (left to right) Sharon H., Bonnie G., Maggie N., Bonnie W., Linda C., Malcolm B., Debi F. Missing is Pat A. and Ann C. (Photo courtesy of George M.)
Healing Garden at Hearth Place overview