Garden Shows & Tours
Sharing Gardens Tours Update
13/05/12 09:16 PM
from Garry Lucas
June 24,2012: That is the first Sunday to keep open for our early summer garden tour. Even with all the unpredictable weather the gardens should be colourful and the roses in full bloom. Consider showing your garden as, I am certain, we can learn from what you have done and you can learn from the questions and experiences of your fellow gardeners.
Aug.19,2012: The Sunday of our late summer tour is another date to note. Gardens are usually at their peak and a cascade of colour at this time.
We meet at 12:30 PM at the Peony Gardens on Arena St. north off Bond at Ontario Motor Sales. After reviewing the tour map and car pooling, we leave as a group promptly at 1 PM. Members and guests are welcome and do not forget your camera as there are sure to be items.designs, and plants that inspire you.
After all that effort, planning, and expense of your garden you have a right to be proud and I hope you will consider sharing it with other appreciative members of the club. Contact Garry Lucas or Ted Brown with any questions or to volunteer.
A garden is to enjoy and it is rewarding to share the joy.
June 24,2012: That is the first Sunday to keep open for our early summer garden tour. Even with all the unpredictable weather the gardens should be colourful and the roses in full bloom. Consider showing your garden as, I am certain, we can learn from what you have done and you can learn from the questions and experiences of your fellow gardeners.
Aug.19,2012: The Sunday of our late summer tour is another date to note. Gardens are usually at their peak and a cascade of colour at this time.
We meet at 12:30 PM at the Peony Gardens on Arena St. north off Bond at Ontario Motor Sales. After reviewing the tour map and car pooling, we leave as a group promptly at 1 PM. Members and guests are welcome and do not forget your camera as there are sure to be items.designs, and plants that inspire you.
After all that effort, planning, and expense of your garden you have a right to be proud and I hope you will consider sharing it with other appreciative members of the club. Contact Garry Lucas or Ted Brown with any questions or to volunteer.
A garden is to enjoy and it is rewarding to share the joy.
Jane's Walk at OVBG
15/04/12 01:14 PM
Jane’s Walk at the Oshawa Valley Botanical Gardens map
Saturday May 5th: 1:30 pm - 2:30 pm (possibly 3 pm)
Meet at the Children's Arena parking lot off Arena Street.
Take a leisurely stroll through a botanical jewel in the heart of Oshawa. Community groups have worked together with the City of Oshawa in planning and developing this amazing space along the Oshawa Creek Trail system. A variety of gardens will be visited including the Peony Garden and the Memory Garden. Two stunning architectural elements in recognition of the 100th Anniversary of Rotary International and the 75th Anniversary of the Oshawa Garden Club are also noted as key features of the botanical garden. Come and see the many facets of this unique space.
Saturday May 5th: 1:30 pm - 2:30 pm (possibly 3 pm)
Meet at the Children's Arena parking lot off Arena Street.
Take a leisurely stroll through a botanical jewel in the heart of Oshawa. Community groups have worked together with the City of Oshawa in planning and developing this amazing space along the Oshawa Creek Trail system. A variety of gardens will be visited including the Peony Garden and the Memory Garden. Two stunning architectural elements in recognition of the 100th Anniversary of Rotary International and the 75th Anniversary of the Oshawa Garden Club are also noted as key features of the botanical garden. Come and see the many facets of this unique space.
Ottawa Tulip Festival Tour
14/04/12 10:47 AM
The city of Ottawa receives 10,000 bulbs from Holland’s Monarchy every year. Pine Ridge Garden Club is planning on a tour of the Tulip Festival in Ottawa May 9th.
One of the many stops they would like to make is to Parliament Hill and then on to the Agriculture Canada Arboretum and Botanic Gardens, Ottawa (established 1887), where they are attempting to have the Ottawa Garden club give a tour.
Then they’ll go to Commissioners Park to view 500,000 tulips arranged in waves of colour. Here’s hoping they have entertainment in the park that day. Then off to Major Hill Park where 25 participating countries gather together for a festival full eats and delights, & entertainment. You can sit and listen to the Music in the tulips or wander through and view the artistic displays in the tulips. If they have time they’d would like to stop at ByWard Market.
Before you sign up please understand that they will be leaving early 7 am and coming back late 11pm at a cost of $60.00.
If you are interested in going please contact Shirley at 905-986-5330.
One of the many stops they would like to make is to Parliament Hill and then on to the Agriculture Canada Arboretum and Botanic Gardens, Ottawa (established 1887), where they are attempting to have the Ottawa Garden club give a tour.
Then they’ll go to Commissioners Park to view 500,000 tulips arranged in waves of colour. Here’s hoping they have entertainment in the park that day. Then off to Major Hill Park where 25 participating countries gather together for a festival full eats and delights, & entertainment. You can sit and listen to the Music in the tulips or wander through and view the artistic displays in the tulips. If they have time they’d would like to stop at ByWard Market.
Before you sign up please understand that they will be leaving early 7 am and coming back late 11pm at a cost of $60.00.
If you are interested in going please contact Shirley at 905-986-5330.
Touring with Toronto Botanical Garden
14/04/12 10:28 AM
NEW 2012: DEEPEST PARKDALE TOUR - BOOK TODAY!
New and for a limited few months only, is a tour of the personal garden of a remarkable plantsman Barry Parker.
This special tour offers a combination of both the “hort” and the “culture” in horticulture.
Horticulture: Visit the personal garden of remarkable plantsman Barry Parker. This exquisite city garden is an ode to Barry’s passion for plants and a lifetime of inspiration. Among the many gems to be discovered are trough gardens to miniature plant vignettes, as well as rare and unusual native plants.
Horticulture: The Tour also provides an opportunity to explore Parkdale: A neighbourhood full of history and character. Learn about Parkdale’s interesting history and discover some architectural gems including a charming Edwardian Mews “the narrowest street in the city.”
Also included is discounted shopping at nearby Kuda, Canada ’s leading retailer in exotic solid wood furniture and accessories from South East Asia . Kuda’s 20,000 sq’ showroom is filled with a large selection of furniture and accessories for the home and garden.
Finish your tour with a prix fixe lunch ($25) in the relaxing and stylish surroundings of the historic Gladstone Hotel.
Visiting Toronto ? We would be happy to combine this tour with other nominally priced tours to create a tour package to fit your needs.
Each tour is conducted by our friendly, knowledgeable and fully trained guides who will make your visit truly memorable. All our tours are informative and engaging and are designed to help experts and novice gardener’s alike gain a greater understanding of plants, the natural landscape, landscape design and the history of these unique gardens.
We offer tours in English, and, with enough advance notice, we can arrange to bring a guide with your group to provide a simultaneous translation of our knowledgeable tour guide’s talk in: French, German, Italian, Persian, Kurdu, Russian, Hebrew, Mandarin and Cantonese.
Toronto Botanical Garden is a Registered Charity and is situated in Edwards Gardens at the corner of Lawrence Avenue and Leslie Streets.
Booking: Deepest Parkdale tours are only available once a week from May until end of September 2012. For prices, packages and booking information, please visit http://www.torontobotanicalgarden.ca/tours/overview.htm ; call 416 397 4145 or email tourguides@torontobotanicalgarden.ca
New and for a limited few months only, is a tour of the personal garden of a remarkable plantsman Barry Parker.
This special tour offers a combination of both the “hort” and the “culture” in horticulture.
Horticulture: Visit the personal garden of remarkable plantsman Barry Parker. This exquisite city garden is an ode to Barry’s passion for plants and a lifetime of inspiration. Among the many gems to be discovered are trough gardens to miniature plant vignettes, as well as rare and unusual native plants.
Horticulture: The Tour also provides an opportunity to explore Parkdale: A neighbourhood full of history and character. Learn about Parkdale’s interesting history and discover some architectural gems including a charming Edwardian Mews “the narrowest street in the city.”
Also included is discounted shopping at nearby Kuda, Canada ’s leading retailer in exotic solid wood furniture and accessories from South East Asia . Kuda’s 20,000 sq’ showroom is filled with a large selection of furniture and accessories for the home and garden.
Finish your tour with a prix fixe lunch ($25) in the relaxing and stylish surroundings of the historic Gladstone Hotel.
Visiting Toronto ? We would be happy to combine this tour with other nominally priced tours to create a tour package to fit your needs.
Each tour is conducted by our friendly, knowledgeable and fully trained guides who will make your visit truly memorable. All our tours are informative and engaging and are designed to help experts and novice gardener’s alike gain a greater understanding of plants, the natural landscape, landscape design and the history of these unique gardens.
We offer tours in English, and, with enough advance notice, we can arrange to bring a guide with your group to provide a simultaneous translation of our knowledgeable tour guide’s talk in: French, German, Italian, Persian, Kurdu, Russian, Hebrew, Mandarin and Cantonese.
Toronto Botanical Garden is a Registered Charity and is situated in Edwards Gardens at the corner of Lawrence Avenue and Leslie Streets.
Booking: Deepest Parkdale tours are only available once a week from May until end of September 2012. For prices, packages and booking information, please visit http://www.torontobotanicalgarden.ca/tours/overview.htm ; call 416 397 4145 or email tourguides@torontobotanicalgarden.ca
Sacajawea Tours - British Gardens 2012
31/03/12 11:37 AM
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
Peony Festival
31/03/12 10:36 AM
The City of Oshawa is proud to present the 8th annual Peony Festival. Located in the heart of the beautiful Oshawa Valleyview Botanical Gardens, this free event displays 300 types of Peonies in the gardens and 100 more in Children's Arena. Artisans, live music, food, gardening seminars, community displays and more are all part of this wonderful flower festival.
Join us June 16 and 17, 2012 for the Peony Festival featuring:
One of Canada’s largest contemporary peony collections
Over 300 varieties in the gardens
Canadian Peony Society’s judged Peony Show
Garden inspired works by painters, sculptures and artisans
Trails and gardens along the Oshawa Creek Valley
Expert advice and demonstrations
Musical entertainment and cultural performances
Silent Auction
Delectable fare from local restaurants
10 am to 4 pm
155 Arena Street, Oshawa, ON
Free Admission to the Gardens!
more information
Join us June 16 and 17, 2012 for the Peony Festival featuring:
One of Canada’s largest contemporary peony collections
Over 300 varieties in the gardens
Canadian Peony Society’s judged Peony Show
Garden inspired works by painters, sculptures and artisans
Trails and gardens along the Oshawa Creek Valley
Expert advice and demonstrations
Musical entertainment and cultural performances
Silent Auction
Delectable fare from local restaurants
10 am to 4 pm
155 Arena Street, Oshawa, ON
Free Admission to the Gardens!
more information
June Bus Trip
31/03/12 10:35 AM
from member Bonnie
Bus Trip (for club members)
When: Sat. June 23
Where:
1. Brantford: the 1.5 acre private garden of Mary and Bruce members of the Brantford Garden Club. Mary has over 350 different peonies, a small pond , more like a water feature, hidden gardens, small Japanese garden, and a small Victorian garden. The yard is on a bit of a slope, so they have compensated with pathways to take you thru the gardens. The front of the house has a large wraparound porch, with gardens and formal boxwood square in the front yard.
2. Waterwise Demonstration Garden developed by the city in partnership with the Brantford Garden Club and Brant-Lyn Optimists. BGC members will give us a personal tour of the 5 different styles of gardens.
3. Wilsonville: Private tour of Whistling Gardens the newest Botanic Garden to officially open on May 26, 2012. Darren Heimbecker has cultivated & sculpted nearly 18 acres into 6 major gardens & collections with nearly 4 km of walking paths and a Garden Centre for our gardening needs.
We will stop for a morning break and lunch. Cost Not Included.
Cost: $58.00 will include cost of bus and all entrance fees & tour fees.
No Refunds
more information
Bus Trip (for club members)
When: Sat. June 23
Where:
1. Brantford: the 1.5 acre private garden of Mary and Bruce members of the Brantford Garden Club. Mary has over 350 different peonies, a small pond , more like a water feature, hidden gardens, small Japanese garden, and a small Victorian garden. The yard is on a bit of a slope, so they have compensated with pathways to take you thru the gardens. The front of the house has a large wraparound porch, with gardens and formal boxwood square in the front yard.
2. Waterwise Demonstration Garden developed by the city in partnership with the Brantford Garden Club and Brant-Lyn Optimists. BGC members will give us a personal tour of the 5 different styles of gardens.
3. Wilsonville: Private tour of Whistling Gardens the newest Botanic Garden to officially open on May 26, 2012. Darren Heimbecker has cultivated & sculpted nearly 18 acres into 6 major gardens & collections with nearly 4 km of walking paths and a Garden Centre for our gardening needs.
We will stop for a morning break and lunch. Cost Not Included.
Cost: $58.00 will include cost of bus and all entrance fees & tour fees.
No Refunds
more information
Sharing Gardens Tours 2012
31/03/12 10:34 AM
from Garry Lucas, Chair Sharing Gardens Tour
Tours are for club members and guests. To join the club and get in on the fun, go here.
Is there anyone in the club who can predict the weather? If you can, we need you, since this winter's crazy up-and-down weather makes it impossible to guess how our spring and summer gardens will grow.
Accordingly we are now planning an Early Summer Tour on Sunday, June 24, 2012 (see Club Calendar). This year we will gather in the Peony Gardens on Arena Street, north of Ontario Motor Sales, at 12:30 p.m. We will leave as a group at 1:00 p. m. As a bonus the roses should be at their peak.
The Late Summer Tour will be on Sunday August 19, 2012 and we will meet at the Peony Gardens at 12:30 p.m. Gardens are usually at their most colourful at this time of year.
I should emphasize that the tours are a terrific opportunity to enjoy a diversity of gardens, while sharing knowledge and experience with like-minded gardeners.Those who are interested in sharing their gardens, can contact us to volunteer. Happy digging!
Tours are for club members and guests. To join the club and get in on the fun, go here.
Is there anyone in the club who can predict the weather? If you can, we need you, since this winter's crazy up-and-down weather makes it impossible to guess how our spring and summer gardens will grow.
Accordingly we are now planning an Early Summer Tour on Sunday, June 24, 2012 (see Club Calendar). This year we will gather in the Peony Gardens on Arena Street, north of Ontario Motor Sales, at 12:30 p.m. We will leave as a group at 1:00 p. m. As a bonus the roses should be at their peak.
The Late Summer Tour will be on Sunday August 19, 2012 and we will meet at the Peony Gardens at 12:30 p.m. Gardens are usually at their most colourful at this time of year.
I should emphasize that the tours are a terrific opportunity to enjoy a diversity of gardens, while sharing knowledge and experience with like-minded gardeners.Those who are interested in sharing their gardens, can contact us to volunteer. Happy digging!
16th Metro East Home & Garden Show
31/03/12 09:38 AM
Date: Friday, March 30 to Sunday, April 1
Where: Pickering Markets Trade Centre - Pickering
Landscaping, Garden Accessories, Home Decor, Patio Furniture, BBQ'S, Home Improvements, Air Conditioning, Hot tubs, Swimming Pools, Decks, Roofing, Windows and much more.
more information
Where: Pickering Markets Trade Centre - Pickering
Landscaping, Garden Accessories, Home Decor, Patio Furniture, BBQ'S, Home Improvements, Air Conditioning, Hot tubs, Swimming Pools, Decks, Roofing, Windows and much more.
more information
Hosta Forum in Burlington
31/03/12 09:38 AM
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
Floriade, the World Horticultural Exhibition
31/03/12 08:09 AM
Of general interest to club members…
April 5 - October 7, 2012 - Venlo, The Netherlands
Held once every ten years, Floriade, the World Horticultural Expo, is the leading showcase for Dutch horticulture, providing a wealth of interest for the horticulturally minded and a colourful and uplifting experience.
Covering a vast area of specially landscaped woodland near Venlo in the province of North Limburg, close to the German border, Floriade 2012 comprises five separate areas, linked by tree-lined avenues, each with its own theme. These are Relax Green Engine, which demonstrates how horticulture is an important economic engine and supplier of green energy; Education Environment, which shows how living and working in a green environment improves our quality of life; and finally World Show Stage, which promises to provide some of the liveliest exhibits, celebrating the myriad connections between nature and culture around the world.
April 5 - October 7, 2012 - Venlo, The Netherlands
Held once every ten years, Floriade, the World Horticultural Expo, is the leading showcase for Dutch horticulture, providing a wealth of interest for the horticulturally minded and a colourful and uplifting experience.
Covering a vast area of specially landscaped woodland near Venlo in the province of North Limburg, close to the German border, Floriade 2012 comprises five separate areas, linked by tree-lined avenues, each with its own theme. These are Relax Green Engine, which demonstrates how horticulture is an important economic engine and supplier of green energy; Education Environment, which shows how living and working in a green environment improves our quality of life; and finally World Show Stage, which promises to provide some of the liveliest exhibits, celebrating the myriad connections between nature and culture around the world.
Master Gardeners at Canada Blooms
18/03/12 03:59 PM
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
Canada Blooms Newsletter
18/03/12 03:54 PM
Canada Blooms: 16 – 25 Mar 2012 (See Club Calendar)
For an exclusive peek at Canada Blooms the Flower & Garden Festival newsletter. (PDF document 55 KB)
Canada Blooms Newsletter
For an exclusive peek at Canada Blooms the Flower & Garden Festival newsletter. (PDF document 55 KB)
Canada Blooms Newsletter
Daffodil receives honours as official flower for Canada Blooms 2012
12/03/12 09:01 PM
see club calendar
Photography Competition at Canada Blooms 2012
12/03/12 09:01 PM
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.
Home and Garden Show Spring 2012
10/03/12 10:02 AM
Spring is just around the corner, and it’s the perfect time to start imagining what your home and garden could be like this summer!
Metroland Durham Region Media Group is hosting the 13th Annual Oshawa Home and Garden Show March 9th to 11th at the General Motors Centre. This year, the Home and Garden Show has grown again, and will take place on two levels, in one arena. Over 130 vendors are participating in this year’s show, and will
be showcasing their products and services, including landscaping, windows and doors, financial services, hot tubs, realtors, contractors, decks, garage doors and a whole lot more! The arena will feature a wide array of vendors and events will be taking place all three days.
MORE THAN 8,700 ATTENDEES IN 2011
Oshawa
Friday March, 9th 2012, 1pm to 9pm
Saturday March, 10th 2012, 10am to 6pm
Sunday March, 11th 2012, 10am to 5pm
Metroland Durham Region Media Group is hosting the 13th Annual Oshawa Home and Garden Show March 9th to 11th at the General Motors Centre. This year, the Home and Garden Show has grown again, and will take place on two levels, in one arena. Over 130 vendors are participating in this year’s show, and will
be showcasing their products and services, including landscaping, windows and doors, financial services, hot tubs, realtors, contractors, decks, garage doors and a whole lot more! The arena will feature a wide array of vendors and events will be taking place all three days.
MORE THAN 8,700 ATTENDEES IN 2011
Oshawa
Friday March, 9th 2012, 1pm to 9pm
Saturday March, 10th 2012, 10am to 6pm
Sunday March, 11th 2012, 10am to 5pm
District 17 Photographic Competition
05/02/12 12:25 PM
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
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
Toronto Botanical Gardens: Tropical Getaway
28/01/12 10:09 AM
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
Seedy Saturday Pickering
28/01/12 09:14 AM
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
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
Communities in Bloom
18/10/11 10:34 PM
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
Brooklin Open Garden Tour
21/08/11 09:11 PM
August 21, 2011
from member Jim Cook (webmaster)
Although it was a rainy day, there were times where it was completely dry and touring this wonderful garden was a real treat. Here's a few interesting points about Sofie and John's garden (from their material):
from member Jim Cook (webmaster)
- Dry Stone Walls – constructed without mortar by the owner using fieldstone gathered in and around Brooklin. Many examples include walls around the vegetable garden and a 100’ wall around the roses.
- Colour Wheel Garden – an 84’ diameter garden divided into 8 sections, planted colour wheel style in 6 separate colours of pink (2), blue, white, yellow/orange (2), red and purple. This maze-like garden is very much an English style garden intensely planted with perennials, roses, grasses, lilies, clematis, shrubs. Featured is a 50’hedge of tri-coloured willow on the south side & a gazebo in the centre. There are 24 garden beds within the colour wheel!!
- Roses – over 400 roses throughout the gardens. A separate rose garden is surrounded by a curved 100’ dry stone wall. Featured in the rose beds are several beautiful clematis durandii growing in tall tomato cages. Low hedges of seedless chives and arching allium thunbergii “ozawa” define the beds. How does one look after so many roses? Planting the rose’s bud union 4-6” below ground level eliminates the need for winter hilling (zone 5b). In early spring, forget outward facing buds and such - the dead canes are "zapped" to live wood with a battery powered hedge trimmer.
- Vegetable Garden – included are 6 arbours for climbing roses, clematis and annual vines. 16 beds hold veggies, trial plants started from seed over the winter, cosmos, Austin roses, strawberries, rhubarb, asparagus, boxwood, lavender and chive hedges.
- Perennial Edibles – strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, blueberries, mulberry, serviceberries, grapes, walnut, asparagus, seedless chives and sorrel, thyme, bush cherries, espeliered pear tree, rhubarb, Chicago fig, and newly planted apple trees.
- Austrian Pine Allee – stroll thru the 300 ft. allee under planted with hostas, daylilies, shrubs, phlox, heuchera, ferns & clematis scrambling up the pines. Ground covers include sweet woodruff, geranium macrorrhizum and Japanese anemone. Over 200 hosta varieties.
- Daylilies – over 200 varieties. July 24 is the best time to view.
- Other – dry stone riverbed, trees & flowering shrubs, pond, golf pad
Report on 2011 Sudbury OHA Convention
17/07/11 09:13 PM
July 15 - 17, 2011
from members Garry and Iris Lucas
On Thursday morning, July 14, Iris and I left for a leisurely 394 km. drive, in slow two-lane traffic, to the annual OHA convention in Sudbury organized by the fourteen societies of District 14. The Quality Inn was walking distance, four blocks to the convention centre. After registration and greeting the only planned activity was a night-time guerrilla gardening in downtown Sudbury.
Friday the official launch had the normal dignitaries and groups. The Mayor, Marianne Matichuk, mentioned the founding of the Sudbury society in 1911 and that they maintained one of the city's public spaces. Master Gardeners are celebrating 25 years. Speaker Dr. Stephen Monet has for ten years overseen the environmental planning in Sudbury from 1970 moonscape to forest. He explained the problems and the process with accompanying pictures greatersudbury.ca. Helen Sciutt of the Ministry of Agriculture discussed the need for garden diversity and for inclusion and accessibility for the physically and invisibly disabled.
We attended two seminars - Perennials in the Woodland and Photography in the Garden. After was a review of OHA programs: Trillium available electronically, OHA on Facebook, membership declining since 2004, with some exceptions notably Districts 10 &16 ( details from webmaster@gardenontario.org ), pollinator patches being done by two people each on roadsides caroldunk.com, guerilla garden pictures of 30+ participants, picket fence will be at Inco Hospice for terminal patients.
Saturday started with Bob Wildfong talking on Seeds of Diversity and lots of tips seeds.ca. We then attended two more seminars: Gardening on the Rocks and Attracting Backyard Birds. Spent any spare time enjoying the judged and youth competition displays. Saturday's banquet was a terrific prime rib. Sandy Rakestrow our Director and many of District 17 sat together. Speaker was Franco Mariotti on Hope in a Changing World. An enthusiastic biologist and staff scientist at Science North, he discussed the lessons from Sudbury and around the world since 1981. Ended with statement 'Each of us leaves a legacy each day'. The convention had 349 paid and 429 participants with volunteers.The new board was acclaimed and three resolutions of appreciation passed. Financial statement was reviewed and approved. Niagara Falls (St. Catherines) promoted the Aug.17-19, 2012 convention in Niagara Falls. Details on OHA website. Selling a new dark red rose '1812' from specialists Palantines. Concluded with an inspirational and entertaining speech by Gerry Loughheed. He is a Sudbury funeral director involved in promoting the funding of Sudbury's greening and other community activities. Summation was "get away from the weeds (negatives) in your life and the blind eyes allow industry to pollute".
Summary
We enjoyed our first annual OHA convention and would recommend and go again. The speakers were almost all excellent, and local, so we would not otherwise have heard them. The judging competition display was outstanding, especially the photography and design sections. Newly acclaimed executive appears enthusiastic and very competent.
Minor quibble was no informal gathering areas or system to meet others, especially from our district or the same hotel. Necessary as we were scattered around 4 or 5 hotels. Also there were bus trips, workshops, and other seminars available, but missed due to lack of time.
I have more detail on many of these items and there is info on the OHA website at: gardenontario.org.
from members Garry and Iris Lucas
On Thursday morning, July 14, Iris and I left for a leisurely 394 km. drive, in slow two-lane traffic, to the annual OHA convention in Sudbury organized by the fourteen societies of District 14. The Quality Inn was walking distance, four blocks to the convention centre. After registration and greeting the only planned activity was a night-time guerrilla gardening in downtown Sudbury.
Friday the official launch had the normal dignitaries and groups. The Mayor, Marianne Matichuk, mentioned the founding of the Sudbury society in 1911 and that they maintained one of the city's public spaces. Master Gardeners are celebrating 25 years. Speaker Dr. Stephen Monet has for ten years overseen the environmental planning in Sudbury from 1970 moonscape to forest. He explained the problems and the process with accompanying pictures greatersudbury.ca. Helen Sciutt of the Ministry of Agriculture discussed the need for garden diversity and for inclusion and accessibility for the physically and invisibly disabled.
We attended two seminars - Perennials in the Woodland and Photography in the Garden. After was a review of OHA programs: Trillium available electronically, OHA on Facebook, membership declining since 2004, with some exceptions notably Districts 10 &16 ( details from webmaster@gardenontario.org ), pollinator patches being done by two people each on roadsides caroldunk.com, guerilla garden pictures of 30+ participants, picket fence will be at Inco Hospice for terminal patients.
Saturday started with Bob Wildfong talking on Seeds of Diversity and lots of tips seeds.ca. We then attended two more seminars: Gardening on the Rocks and Attracting Backyard Birds. Spent any spare time enjoying the judged and youth competition displays. Saturday's banquet was a terrific prime rib. Sandy Rakestrow our Director and many of District 17 sat together. Speaker was Franco Mariotti on Hope in a Changing World. An enthusiastic biologist and staff scientist at Science North, he discussed the lessons from Sudbury and around the world since 1981. Ended with statement 'Each of us leaves a legacy each day'. The convention had 349 paid and 429 participants with volunteers.The new board was acclaimed and three resolutions of appreciation passed. Financial statement was reviewed and approved. Niagara Falls (St. Catherines) promoted the Aug.17-19, 2012 convention in Niagara Falls. Details on OHA website. Selling a new dark red rose '1812' from specialists Palantines. Concluded with an inspirational and entertaining speech by Gerry Loughheed. He is a Sudbury funeral director involved in promoting the funding of Sudbury's greening and other community activities. Summation was "get away from the weeds (negatives) in your life and the blind eyes allow industry to pollute".
Summary
We enjoyed our first annual OHA convention and would recommend and go again. The speakers were almost all excellent, and local, so we would not otherwise have heard them. The judging competition display was outstanding, especially the photography and design sections. Newly acclaimed executive appears enthusiastic and very competent.
Minor quibble was no informal gathering areas or system to meet others, especially from our district or the same hotel. Necessary as we were scattered around 4 or 5 hotels. Also there were bus trips, workshops, and other seminars available, but missed due to lack of time.
I have more detail on many of these items and there is info on the OHA website at: gardenontario.org.
Summer Garden Tour
10/07/11 09:15 PM
July 10, 2011
The Summer Tour on July 10 was a great sunny day and about 40 people enjoyed the five gardens. Special thanks to Maria and Dennis who hosted us at the end with a selection of refreshments in addition to detailed tours of their extensive garden. If you are willing to share your garden as a learning experience for our members then contact us.
The Summer Tour on July 10 was a great sunny day and about 40 people enjoyed the five gardens. Special thanks to Maria and Dennis who hosted us at the end with a selection of refreshments in addition to detailed tours of their extensive garden. If you are willing to share your garden as a learning experience for our members then contact us.