THE NATIONAL
gardenerSPRING 2021
BLOOMING ON THE GRAND - GARDENING ON THE BAY - THE BEAUTY OF BULBS 1 | The National Gardener Spring 2021| 1 A natural in the garden since 1929.
Espoma Organic and National Garden Clubs Are Partnering To Help Communities
Your local garden projects and programs provide inspiring opportunities that bring neighbors, cultures and generations together to share the experience and joy of gardening. As recognition of the valuable resource that your club contributes to your community, up to 20 local garden clubs across America will be awarded grants. Recipients will earn up to $250 of Espoma Organic Plant Foods & Potting Soils. So be inspired America! Join our effort to Plant America Together. Register your garden club today! Sign up at: www.espoma.com/garden-clubs.
Be a part of ‘Plant America’ and watch your community grow!
Your good work deserves to be recognized...
Visit us at www.espoma.com and join our gardening community 2 | The National Gardener Spring 2021| 3 The National Gardener Spring 2021 | Vol. 92, No. 2
National Garden Clubs, Inc. TABLE OF CONTENTS 5,000 Garden Clubs President’s Message 4 165,000 Garden Club Members National Garden Week 50 States and the National Capital Area 7 60 National Affiliate Member Organizations Blooming on Grand 9 330 International Affiliate Member Organizations Plant America Community Project Grants 13 Gay L. Austin, President Plant America Full STEAM Ahead 16 401 Marion Ave., McComb, MS 39648-2709 Seeds of Learning 17 The National Gardener Digging In 19 Patricia Binder, Editor Restoring the Roses 24 [email protected] Enhancing the Community 27 636-775-2378 The Happy Gardener’s Guide 30 Direct all advertising inquiries to the editor NGC Schools News 34 TNG Website Inquiries: National Garden Clubs Inc. NGC Flower Show Schools News 36 4401 Magnolia Avenue Gardening on the Bay 37 St. Louis, MO 63110-3492 The Beauty of Bulbs 40 314-776-7574 Ext. 215 [email protected]
NGC Headquarters THE COVER Monday-Friday, 9:00 am - 4:30 pm CST “Grand Rapids in Bloom” is the 4401 Magnolia Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63110 ambitious planting project of 50 Tel: 314-776-7574 Fax: 314-776-5108 Prunus Kanzan ‘Kwanzan’ cherry E-mail: [email protected] trees along the scenic Grand River in Web: www.gardenclub.org Grand Rapids, Michigan, by members Michelle Smith, Ext: 214; Executive Director of Kent Garden Club. The iconic Emily Kiske, Ext: 218; Member Services flowering cherry cultivars are noted 1-800-550-6007 - Orders Only, Please for their bountiful spring blooms Bill Trapp, Ext: 212; Accountant that offer a riot of welcome color to Chris Schmidt, Ext: 211; Accounting Assistant the downtown corridor each spring. Katie Roth, Ext: 215; Administrative Assistant Photo by Shannon Sprague. Rebecka Flowers, Ext: 210; Schools Secretary
The National Gardener (ISSN: 0027 9331) (USPS: 595-500) is published quarterly by National Garden Clubs Inc., 4401 Magnolia Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63110-3492
2 | The National Gardener Spring 2021| 3 Gay L. Austin 2019-2021 NGC President
President’s Message
uring a recent morning walk, I connection with garden club members Dnoticed the first group of migratory around our world sustains my sense robins in the open pasture close to of purpose for the critical reasons our our home. To Mississippians, this group exists. I would be remiss not indicates spring is not far behind. With to share our many accomplishments this evolving season comes an air of together: expectation as nature begins to awaken • The NGC Board of Directors and around us. International Affiliates exceeded This is the last president’s message expectations in all areas. Even of this administration and also the last in challenging times, we have print issue of The National Gardener – accomplished many programs that the flagship magazine of NGC – which will strengthen our organization has been in print 91 years. To the editor in future endeavors. It would be of TNG, Patricia Binder, thank you for impossible for me to list the scores working with us since 2016 to create a of individuals who contributed to beautiful, educational and enjoyable our success, but to each one of our publication. For TNG readers, please volunteers, I express sincere thanks note the magazine is transitioning to for your dedication and service to a digital format on the NGC website at NGC. Please know how much I have gardenclub.org, beginning in summer valued your effort, skills and time. 2021. • In September 2019, a formal As NGC President for the 2019-2021 dedication was held to recognize administration, this chapter of my the extensive renovation of the volunteer journey has provided a lifetime grounds and gardens at NGC of happy memories, many far more headquarters in St. Louis, Missouri. valuable than I can ever express. The More than 200 NGC members
4 | The National Gardener Spring 2021| 5 from across the United States, local chairmen contributed many including former NGC presidents, hours of planning to continue our were on hand to celebrate the mission for education and are to be remarkable transformation. Michelle congratulated for these successful Smith, executive director at NGC learning opportunities. headquarters, and her highly • Another area of success is the efficient staff worked tirelessly on broader message to promote the project in keeping with NGC’s NGC’s mission and highlight the commitment to gardening and efforts of our members nationwide. sustainability. While the new design Through the professional efforts respects the past, it also serves as a and outreach by Binder PR and role model for current, eco-friendly Marketing Communication, our performative landscapes. NGC public relations firm on record Gay L. Austin • In August 2020, NGC launched a new for 14 years, we are able to share website on gardenclub.org Through our news in the media. Articles on 2019-2021 NGC President the dedication a wide range of topics, and talent of with a focus on National President’s Message our NGC staff at All NGC Garden Clubs Inc., headquarters and have been published website committee, educational“ in print, online and this digital face opportunities shared on social media, of NGC provides including two separate outstanding continue to provide features on gardening education and an excellent source in the pandemic by connects our CBS Market Watch and gardening of knowledge. Boston University News; community of ” an American Flowers current and Week focus in a leading potential new members and viewers national digital magazine; and a from around our world. gardening piece in a prominent • All NGC educational opportunities national magazine that has 7.6 continue to provide an excellent million readers. In addition, NGC source of knowledge. We developed garnered local and regional media digital schools that broaden our publicity on the installation of visibility and access worldwide. new NGC executive officers, the The approximate number for each recipients of NGC’s prestigious school, symposia and/or refresher Award of Excellence and programs from June 1, 2019 to December such as Plant America. The exposure 31, 2020, includes: Environmental makes an immeasurable impact on Schools – 47; Gardening Schools – NGC’s public image and serves as 52; Landscape Design Schools – 41; an effective marketing tool. Thank and Flower Show Judges – 57. NGC you to the many garden clubs that Affiliate International Schools hosted shared our news on their websites an equally significant amount of and in social media. educational schools. Our dedicated Programs supported by NGC continue national, international, state and to be successful. A few highlights of the
4 | The National Gardener Spring 2021| 5 2019-2021 administration include: • An effort to develop a photography • The NGC college scholarship program is being developed, with program supplied over $300,000 in more information to follow soon. financial aid to students majoring in • Celebrate National Garden Week fields of study related to horticulture in Your Community! Please plan to and the environment. join NGC clubs across the nation to • The Plant America Community mark National Garden Week, June Grant program received over 450 6-12, 2021. This is an opportunity to applications, with almost $100,000 encourage pride in your community, being awarded to 107 member interest new members and work clubs. Grant recipients used funds with other groups to be part of to assist in community service those efforts. in multiple areas of gardening, As this chapter closes for us, we horticulture, garden design and realize that change is inevitable. To beautification. implement successful change, we must • NGC continues to work with the accept the evolution, respect leadership United States Forest Service, an and have faith in our successes. With agency of the U.S. Department of a strong foundation forged by our past Agriculture, in which garden clubs and present volunteers and continued donate funds in $68 increments dedicated experienced leadership, to NGC’s Penny Pines program National Garden Clubs Inc. is in capable that help to sustain and/or replace hands to ensure stability and growth. national and urban forests through My garden club volunteer experience this reforestation program. This began in my own backyard. From the administration has received over first invitation to join a club, I embraced $60,000 in donations to assist with each opportunity given to me and this much-needed program. have reaped a lifetime of joy from this • NGC’s youth programs continue experience. I am humbled to have to educate and nurture world served in this capacity and look forward stewardship in the next generation to NGC members strengthening our of gardeners. Through our legacy by service to our world and its programs, clubs and affiliates, we future. encourage tomorrow’s citizens to be responsible and capable in respect to and knowledge of our environment. NGC Calendar
Annual Conventions Fall Board Meetings 2022 Orlando, FL, 2021 St. Louis, MO, May 17-20 Sept. 22-24 2023 White Sulphur Springs, WV, 2022 TBD, May 2-5 (installation) September
6 | The National Gardener Spring 2021| 7 NationalCelebrate Garden Week in your community
Join NGC to celebrate National Garden Week!
ational Garden N Week was founded by National Garden Clubs Inc., to promote the NATIONAL GARDEN WEEK organization’s objectives June 6-12, 2021 of beautification, Sponsored by education of National Garden Clubs, Inc. environmental efforts and the involvement of garden clubs in communities. This week is an opportunity to encourage pride in your community, reach out to potential new members and collaborate with other area groups as part of those efforts. Some ideas to consider: • Plan an educational program and/or workshop at your local library, public • Plan a garden tour. an existing garden. garden or garden This is a great time to Reach out to local center. share ideas and show groups to assist in • Sponsor a hands-on your knowledge of all your efforts. “How Do You Select things that grow. • Plan an activity with Flowers/Shrubs • Beautify a a youth group or for Your Garden,” manageable blighted students at a local workshop at an area area or enhance school. nursery.
6 | The National Gardener Spring 2021| 7 • Place a plant or flower arrangement at a public facility, along with one of Download the NGC National the beautiful National Garden Week Garden Week materials for use in posters. publicizing your National Garden Week project! Sara Hemphill Chairman, National Garden Week gardenclub.org/national- [email protected] garden-week
National Garden Clubs, Inc. NATIONAL GARDEN WEEK PROCLAMATION
Whereas, Gardeners have a passion for nurturing the beauty and resources of the earth through the planting of seeds, the care of all plants and the riches of their efforts; and
Whereas, Gardeners seek to add beauty, splendor, fragrance and nutrition to our lives through the growing of herbs, vegetables, foliage and flowers; and
Whereas, Gardeners work to preserve our country's traditional spirit of independence and initiative through innovation and hard work; and
Whereas, Gardeners advocate the importance of all creatures, large and small, that share our world and their roles in a balanced and productive ecology; and
Whereas, Gardening furnishes a challenging and productive activity for our citizens, for those just learning as well as those having years of experience; and
Whereas, Gardening promotes a healthy lifestyle that lasts a lifetime, helps reduce stress from other areas of our life, teaches that rewards can come from diligent efforts; and
Whereas, Gardening enables members of Garden Clubs across the nation and the world to make a world of difference in the communities where they reside and work;
Now, Therefore Be It Resolved that in an effort to acknowledge the importance of Gardening and the numerous contributions of Gardeners, National Garden Clubs, Inc. designates the week of June 6-12 as National Garden Week. Mary Warshauer, 2021-2023 President, NGC, Inc.
8 | The National Gardener Spring 2021| 9 blooming
on the grand Photo by Barb Hoogeboom
stroll along the Grand River in Basin in Washington D.C. A downtown Grand Rapids, Michigan, In spring 2016, members of the can be a delightful experience in nearly garden club coordinated local efforts to any season. However, the view is even plant nine Kwanzan cherry trees on the more breathtaking in spring, courtesy of grounds and along the walkways of the a riot of color from the bounty of blooms Grand Rapids Public Museum, situated bursting from the Kwanzan cherry trees, on the western bank of the Grand River. which line the river’s banks. The cherry trees were donated by members of Kent Garden Club, the A Dream Takes Root majority of which were planted in The planting of the cherry trees is an memory of members of their families. ambitious community beautification The trees, which feature an attractive, project by members of Kent Garden Club upright symmetrical canopy, can grow in Grand Rapids. The project, “Grand up to 25 feet tall and do not produce Rapids in Bloom,” was launched in 2016 fruit. The trees quickly became beloved and spearheaded by Adele Krhovsky, downtown icons due to their ease of care then Kent Garden Club president, whose and pleasing aesthetics. vision was to plant Kwanzan cherry trees In summer 2018, Kent Garden Club along the banks of the river to mimic members organized a successful garden the area that graces the renowned Tidal walk to raise funds for the planting of
8 | The National Gardener Spring 2021| 9 Photos by Shannon Sprague
to provide the ongoing upkeep and maintenance of plantings on the grounds of the Grand Rapids Public Museum. In 2020, members planted 45 flats of begonias. The club creates a schedule during the growing season, which elicits help from members to weed additional trees. That fall, three more garden areas two days each month from memorial cherry trees were planted April through October. on the grounds of the Volunteer hours during museum, resulting in a this time may total total of 12 cherry trees In 2020, 130 hours or more. In planted on the property. members“ planted addition, members tend a Kent Garden Club Knock Gardening on the 45 flats of Out® Rose anniversary Grand begonias. garden, which features Gardening on the Grand a prominent marker is a project initiated by ” that recognizes the Sue Jabin, a local Master club’s 100th anniversary. Gardener and patron of the arts in Grand Future plans include the installation Rapids, who provided years of leadership of a butterfly and pollinator area. Kent to Kent Garden Club members. Jabin Garden Club member Barb Hoogeboom enlisted help from members of the club
10 | The National Gardener Spring 2021| 11 BOUNTIFUL BLOOMS Japanese cherry trees Potomac River. Adjacent display of large clusters were introduced to the to the Tidal Basin are of deep pink double United States in 1903, important national blooms. The blossoms and many varieties are monuments, including are on full display at the planted throughout the the Jefferson Memorial, National Cherry Blossom nation. In 1912, the mayor the Martin Luther King Festival, an annual event of Tokyo, Japan, presented Jr. Memorial and the that attracts people Japanese cherry trees to Franklin Delano Roosevelt from across the U.S. and the city of Washington Memorial. visitors around the globe, D.C., as a cultural symbol Named after a where they marvel at and of hope, renewal and mountain in Japan and photograph the Kwanzan friendship. native to that country, as and other species of The trees were planted well as China and Korea, Japanese cherry trees around the iconic 107- the dazzling, showy situated along the banks acre Tidal Basin, which flowering Kwanzan cherry of the iconic Tidal Basin. is part of West Potomac tree is believed to be the Visit nps.gov/subjects/ Park. Built in the 1800s, hardiest of all species of cherryblossom and the man-made, 10-foot- cherry trees. Each spring nps.gov/articles/ deep reservoir was built in our nation’s capital, dctidalbasin to harness the power of Kwanzan cherry trees tides from the nearby provide a stunning floral
Photos courtesy of the U.S. National Park Service
is the chairman who leads the volunteer eastern side of the Grand River to mirror efforts. planting efforts at the museum grounds to the west. These efforts included: Extending the Vision • In fall 2017, five cherry trees were In an outreach to and collaboration planted at nearby Sixth Street Bridge with city and community leaders and Park, which offers easy access to a members of the City of Grand Rapids historic bridge and Riverwalk. The Parks and Recreation Department, Kent project was funded by Kent Garden Garden Club members proposed the Club. planting of Kwanzan cherry trees on the • In 2018, a noted, local philanthropist
Photo by Ed Downs 10 | The National Gardener Photography Spring 2021| 11 Members of Kent Garden Club regularly tend to their installation of a special garden – which features a stunning display of Knock Out® roses – on the grounds of the Grand Rapids Public Museum. The garden honors the club’s 100th anniversary. Photos by Kathy Wolverton.
to the beautification of blooms along the river. the city’s parks and Grand Founded in 1913, Kent joined the project’s River corridor. In addition, Garden Club has nearly efforts. By year’s due to the relatively short 100 members and is a end, 17 additional 15-to-25-year lifespan member of Michigan cherry trees had been of the trees, members Garden Clubs Inc. For planted. of the garden club are more information, visit • In fall 2019, 16 more committed to plan and kentgardenclub.org cherry trees were plant additional cherry added. Kathy Wolverton trees, when needed, to In only four years, President preserve the city’s iconic Kent Garden Club a total of 50 Kwanzan tree canopy and beautiful [email protected] cherry trees have been planted as part of the Grand Rapids in Bloom project. Members of Kent Garden Club forged civic relationships and successfully led community efforts to support RIGHT: Future plans include the the goal of the installation of a butterfly and pollinator garden on the grounds mayor of Grand of the Grand Rapids Public Rapids – to Museum. An overgrown area (right), was cleared by Kent Garden expand the Club members (above) and will be ready for a variety of pollinator- downtown green friendly plantings in spring. Photos canopy and add by Barb Hoogeboom.
12 | The National Gardener Spring 2021| 13 PLANT AMERICA community project grants
ongratulations to the 51 garden clubs across the nation that have been awarded C a 2021 Plant America Community Project Grant from National Garden Clubs Inc. NGC takes great pride in the vision and commitment by the members of these clubs to green communities across the nation. Members of the NGC Plant America Community Grant Committee marveled at the scope of the diverse and unique projects undertaken by club members. Listed below are the NGC garden clubs that were awarded up to $1000 in support of their local efforts. Start planning your next gardening project, and take advantage of the 2022 NGC Plant America Community Project Grant application, which will be posted on the NGC website at gardenclub.org
David Robson Chairman Plant America Community Project Grants [email protected]
• Fayette Garden Club The Garden • Livermore-Amador Valley Garden Club of Alabama Inc. Club, California Garden Clubs Inc. • MGM Garden Club • Wilton Garden Club Arizona Federation of Garden Clubs The Federated Garden Clubs of Inc. Connecticut Inc. • Gold Canyon Garden Club • Garden Club By the Sea Arizona Federation of Garden Clubs Florida Federation of Garden Clubs Inc. Inc. • Descanso Garden Club • Oleander Garden Club of the Palm California Garden Clubs Inc. Beaches Inc. • Pacifica Garden Club Florida Federation of Garden Clubs California Garden Clubs Inc. Inc. • Potter Valley Garden Club • Coral Pines Garden Club California Garden Clubs Inc. Florida Federation of Garden Clubs Inc.
12 | The National Gardener Spring 2021| 13 • The Garden Club of the Halifax • Franklin-Simpson Garden Club Country The Garden Club of Kentucky Inc. Florida Federation of Garden Clubs • Attleboro Garden Club Inc. The Garden Club Federation of • Spalding Garden Club Massachusetts Inc. The Garden Club of Georgia Inc. • Chula Vista Garden Club • Dogwood Garden Club Michigan Garden Clubs Inc. The Garden Club of Georgia Inc. • Michiana Landscape Study Club • Avondale Estates Garden Club Michigan Garden Clubs Inc. The Garden Club of Georgia Inc. • Magnolia Garden Club • St. Mary’s Garden Club The Garden Clubs of Mississippi Inc. The Garden Club of Georgia Inc. • Park Place Garden Club • Ladies’ Garden Club The Garden Clubs of Mississippi Inc. The Garden Club of Georgia Inc. • Water Valley Town & Country • Douglas Garden Club Garden Club The Garden Club of Georgia Inc. The Garden Clubs of Mississippi Inc. • Valley Garden Club • Missoula Garden Club Garden Club of Idaho Inc. Montana Federation of Garden • Merry Tillers Garden Club Clubs Inc. Garden Club of Idaho Inc. • Rainbow Garden Club • Enter the Garden Club Montana Federation of Garden The Garden Club of Indiana Inc. Clubs Inc. • Iris Elm Garden Club • Dominion Valley Garden Club The Garden Club of Indiana Inc. National Capital Area Garden Clubs Inc. • Little Sioux Federated Garden Club Federated Garden Clubs of Iowa Inc. • Epping Garden Club New Hampshire Federation of Garden Clubs Inc. • Old Homestead Garden Club New Hampshire Federation of Plant America Garden Clubs Inc. Community • Garden Club of Hackensack Project Grant The Garden Club of New Jersey Inc. application will be • Modern Gardeners Garden Club posted on the NGC The Garden Club of North Carolina website at: Inc. • Madison County Garden Club gardenclub.org The Garden Club of North Carolina Inc.
14 | The National Gardener Spring 2021| 15 GROW YOUR PROJECT! • Cary Garden Club The Garden Club of North Carolina Inc. • Fox Chapel Garden Club National Garden The Garden Club Federation of Clubs Inc. Pennsylvania offers items to help your garden • Presque Isle Garden Club club create awareness of your The Garden Club Federation of PLANT AMERICA Pennsylvania community gardening • Palmetto Garden Club of South project! Carolina Plant The Garden Club of South Carolina America Inc. Button • The Beaufort Garden Club Magnetic The Garden Club of South Carolina Closure: Inc. Pack of 10: • Poinsett-Bland Garden Club $15 The Garden Club of South Carolina Inc. • Chapin Garden Club The Garden Club of South Carolina Inc. • Franklin County Garden Club Tennessee Federation of Garden Plant Clubs Inc. America • Gardeners’ Club of Parker County 5”x5” Texas Garden Clubs Inc. Car Magnet • Pine Lake Garden Club $5 each Washington State Federation of Garden Clubs • Olde Berkeley Garden Club West Virginia Garden Club Inc. Shop online today at • Judy’s Garden Club NGC Member Services: West Virginia Garden Club Inc. shopgardenclub.org/ • Lake Wissota Garden Club shop/ Wisconsin Garden Club Federation Call 1-800-550-6007 E-mail: headquarters@ gardenclub.org
14 | The National Gardener Spring 2021| 15 ‘show me state’ garden club GOES FULL STEAM AHEAD ON PLANT AMERICA COMMUNITY PROJECT
embers of Clayton Garden Club tools in which Min Clayton, Missouri, are working to implement with local children and families to create STEAM learning. a new gardening initiative with funds the Clayton Garden club received from an NGC 2020 Plant Club is one of America Community Project Grant. the longest Partnering with the Urban League continuous of Metropolitan Saint Louis Head Start garden clubs in Program, club members will launch the United States, efforts in spring to create raised garden marking over beds at a local Head Start facility. 80 years in the According to club members, the garden St. Louis area. It beds will help to instill in children and is a member of teachers a love of gardening, as well The Federated as introduce plant science to young Garden Clubs of children, helping to prepare them for Missouri future STEAM (science, technology, Inc. engineering, arts and math) learning. Funds for the project provided Judy King Publicity Chairman materials for two raised beds for each Clayton Garden Club classroom, including soil, seeds and [email protected] child-sized gardening tools. Children will be able to activate all five senses while they learn, explore and grow vegetables ABOUT HEAD START and herbs for their classroom. The Head Start is a national program that project also was planned in a joint effort provides early childhood education with PNC Bank’s Full STEAM Ahead and child development services to Program, which provides STEAM coaches low-income children and families, with for plant science teacher training at Head a focus on school readiness in literary Start. and math skills and job skills training The project is slated for completion in for teens and adults. Serving the St. June 2021, culminating in an “Eat What Louis community for 102 years, the You Grow” celebration. Officials at the organization offers multiple locations Mt. Zion Head Start plan to continue to throughout the region. use the raised beds as hands-on learning
16 | The National Gardener Spring 2021| 17 SUMMER CAMP PLANTS ‘mustard seeds’ of learning
Pops of autumn color frame the Ivan Racheff House, the headquarters of Tennessee Federation of Garden Clubs Inc. Built in 1902, the original home was later modified for commercial and residential space by Ivan Racheff, president of Knoxville Iron Works. The gardens were established by Racheff in 1947.
or more than 18 years, members of Growing Good Stewards of the Earth FNorwood Garden Club in Knoxville, Mustard Seed Camp provides Tennessee, sponsor the one-day Mustard educational activities for up to 26 Seed Camp each summer for children in campers on a first-come, first-served kindergarten to age 13. basis. The primary The camp, highly objective is to educate anticipated by area The primary and encourage youth children and their families “ to be active participants each year, is held at the objective is to in the community, the Ivan Racheff House, a educate and environment and become historic home built in good stewards of the earth. 1902 with gardens in encourage youth Through fun hands-on Knoxville. Situated on to be active instruction and activities, three acres that feature attendees learn the value seasonal plantings, the participants in the of gardening activities. home plays an integral community.... Environmental issues also role as part of Racheff ” are introduced to campers. Park & Garden, and also Each year, the camp’s serves as headquarters theme pays homage of the Tennessee Federation of Garden to the current president’s project of Clubs Inc., whose members maintain the National Garden Clubs Inc. and theme gardens. The property is listed on the of Tennessee Federation of Garden National Register of Historic Places. Clubs Inc. In 2020, the camp theme
16 | The National Gardener Spring 2021| 17 on topics such as the environment, gardening and wildlife habitats. Fun hands-on activities also are featured. At lunchtime, campers learn the value of recycling and how to develop good recycling habits when they observe first-hand how much trash is generated incorporated NGC’s “Plant junior garden club by the sack lunches they America” and TFGC’s chairman and member bring to camp. “Using your Senses – of Norwood Garden Buoyed by the learning Taste, See, Hear, Touch Club. Another member experiences at Mustard and Smell.” volunteers as the on-site Seed Camp, participants In addition, members registered nurse for the often revisit the garden from other area safety of the campers. throughout the year to garden clubs, as well plant additional flowers A Day at Mustard Seed as local businesses and or plants. Older campers Camp organizations in Knoxville, return to volunteer The day begins with support the camp in the garden to earn the opportunity for each each year. Community community service credit attendee to choose from efforts include creating for their projects or clubs a variety of donated attendance certificates in middle school or high flowers, seeds or bulbs or goodie bags, donating school. Members from and plant them in the refreshments, as well area Boy Scout or Girl children’s garden area. as supplying plants and Scout troops also have Campers are then divided seeds for campers to taken on projects at the into three age-appropriate take home. Through garden. groups to participate the community’s in the day’s planned Maggi Burns contributions of tools, rotation of activities. President materials and financial Tennessee Federation of Garden Professional speakers support, Norwood Garden Clubs Inc. from the surrounding Club is able to offer the [email protected] area are invited to share camp free of charge to their knowledge and Photos courtesy campers. Mustard Seed field expertise through of Norwood Camp is coordinated each 35-minute presentations Garden Club year by Kathy Pearson,
In 2020, campers listen to Charlie Rhodarmer, director of the Sequoyah Birthplace Museum, who provided insights into the history, language and culture of the Eastern Band of Cherokee. Campers complied with area COVID-19 guidelines. The museum, theater and interpretive center, located in Vonore, Tennessee, was named for Sequoyah, a soldier, silversmith, statesman and the creator of the Cherokee writing system. The museum is Tennessee’s only tribally operated historical attraction.
18 | The National Gardener Spring 2021| 19 digging in GARDEN CLUB MEMBERS TURN INTEREST INTO ACTION
embers of Dig and Dream Garden is part of the Arapahoe County Public M Club in Centennial, Colorado, Libraries system. The following year, the measure the success of their volunteer garden achieved national recognition gardening programs by the effectiveness as a Certified Butterfly Garden and a of their efforts and impact on the Certified Monarch Garden by the North community. American Butterfly Association. The Federated in 1961, the 35-member garden club is the recipient of a 2020 club – whose members vary in age and Ames Tool Grant and uses the tools it gender – undertakes several important received on this project, as well as at projects in the area, which continue the club’s other projects, including the to leave a positive footprint in the Pickens Technical College Rose Garden community. In 2016, members designed and the Ronald McDonald House and installed a butterfly garden at gardens. The garden club also garnered Centennial’s Smoky Hill Library, which an NGC 2020 Plant America Grant.
The garden at Smoky Hill Library in Centennial, Colorado, designed and installed by members of Dig and Dream Garden Club, is recognized as a Certified Butterfly Garden and a Certified Monarch Garden by the North American Butterfly Association.
18 | The National Gardener Spring 2021| 19 campus, with proceeds funding club activities. The college offers nearly 50 certificate programs in state-of-the-art skills to adults and high school students as part of the Aurora Public Schools and Colorado Community College System. For students interested in a career in the gardening industry, the college offers The rose garden at an urban horticulture and Pickens Technical College, landscape management situated on the sprawling program, which hosts college campus, was six greenhouses where designed, installed and studies include a wide has been maintained by members of Dig and Dream Garden Club since the 1970s. Garden club members maintain a memorial garden on the
Dig and Dream Garden Club campus to honor past members used the tools and garden wagon they received members, collaborate from a 2020 Ames Tool Grant at with the college’s staff on the butterfly garden at Smoky Hill Library. Prior to earning new and ongoing projects the grant award, members and work closely with furnished their own gardening tools on the project and even students on the care and needed to tote water in buckets for the lack of a garden hose. maintenance of roses in The cart, and other needed the garden. Each year, items, furnished by the Ames Tool Grant, simplified garden garden club members sell chores, especially in the The garden club maintains the transport of plants and other perennials at a Mother’s butterfly garden and members materials. offer docent-led garden tours for Day Plant Sale on the adults and children.
20 | The National Gardener Spring 2021| 21 range of topics, from tropical plants to nursery propagation. In addition to course work in the classroom and laboratory, the campus offers a living library The rose garden at Pickens Technical College in Aurora, Colorado, is considered one of the garden of trees, shrubs and perennials for club’s outstanding and ongoing legacy projects. students to study. For more information, visit pickenstech.org In addition, garden club members The garden club works diligently to maintain the NGC Gold Star Families find creative ways to keep members By-Way Marker and the engaged. In keeping with NGC Blue Star Memorial the changes to regular By-Way Marker at The garden club activities due to local Fort Logan National “ restrictions from the Cemetery. The 214- works diligently to coronavirus, the club acre national cemetery find creative ways successfully held virtual is managed by the U.S. meetings and members Department of Veterans to keep members are volunteering at Affairs, and earned engaged. outdoor projects – with national significance for ” members working its association with the in shifts to observe development of military area social-distancing and veterans cemeteries guidelines. The club during the late 19th and early 20th continues its educational programs, centuries by the federal government. including the introduction of a virtual Members of Dig and Dream Garden program on gardening for butterflies, Club also planted trees throughout the and expanded its website – adding the city, provided trees to area schools and ability for members to pay membership helped design gardens at area senior- dues online. Future plans include the living facilities. development of a junior garden club to
20 | The National Gardener Spring 2021| 21 Dig and Dream Garden Club members designed, installed and regularly maintain the welcome garden, shade garden, interior gardens and patio planters at the Ronald McDonald House in Aurora, Colorado. The facility is part of Ronald McDonald House Charities, a nationwide network that provides the basic comforts of home for families of seriously ill or injured children who are patients at nearby metropolitan hospitals. Garden club members help support Ronald McDonald House guests by preparing handmade welcome kits containing personal care items. The gardens offer beautiful, natural spaces that provide a needed respite for families. Although local restrictions from the spread of the coronavirus curtailed many of the club’s activities at the facility last year, garden club members look forward to the opportunity to return to their projects at the facility this year.
introduce young people to the joys of Victoria Schmidt gardening. President Dig and Dream Garden Club is a Dig and Dream Garden Club member of Colorado Federation of [email protected] Garden Clubs Inc. Photos courtesy of Dig and Visit diganddream.com Dream Garden Club
Dear Members of National
Garden Clubs Inc., National Garden Clubs Inc. announces the exciting transition of The National Gardener, the 91-year-old quarterly flagship magazine of NGC, from a print publication to a digital platform. This change debuts with the summer 2021 edition. The new publication, along with past issues of the magazine, will continue to be available on gardenclub.org To subscribe and receive The National Gardener directly to your inbox, visit The National Gardener page on the NGC website and complete the easy subscription form. You may unsubscribe at any time and subscriptions are always FREE. NGC sincerely thanks the subscribers and readers of TNG as it moves forward to grow NGC’s unique voice and audience.
22 | The National Gardener Spring 2021| 23 TOOL GRANT PROGRAM AMES proudly sponsors the National Garden Clubs’ Tools Grant Program since 2014. AMES provides tools for grant winners to support local community gardening projects. “WELLNESS GARDEN” In collaboration with the James C. Kennedy Wellness Center. The Charleston Magnolia Garden Club, Mississippi
“RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE GARDENS” The Burlington Garden Club, Vermont
“GARDEN BEAUTY” The Wedowee Garden Club, Alabama “POLLINATOR FRIENDLY GARDEN” The Ramblers Garden Club Louisville, Kentucky 22 | The National Gardener Spring 2021| 23 restoring the roses
visit to the Tulsa Members of Tulsa bushes at the site in 1935. A Municipal Rose Garden Club, which was Club members continue Garden at Woodward to maintain garden areas Park in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and support the garden is a unique horticultural through a variety of experience. In addition to ...the rose activities and fundraisers. the popular rose garden, garden“ contained In its peak years, the rose the 45-acre public park garden contained more offers a botanical garden, more than 9,000 than 9,000 roses in 250 arboretum and specialty roses in 250 varieties. More recently, gardens that showcase rose rosette disease – a azaleas, tulips, irises, varieties. virus transferred from dogwood and redbud ” plant to plant by a tiny trees, tropical plants, cacti mite - decimated the and more – all situated plantings, resulting in the in beautifully landscaped organized in 1929, were removal of nearly all of settings. the first to plant rose the bushes.
A member of the Second Chance program uses the tools the garden club received from a 2020 Ames Tool Grant on a The bench in the restored rose garden is sheltered by original junipers. project.
24 | The National Gardener Spring 2021| 25 The original rose garden
In a nod to the past, members of Tulsa Garden Club Visit the rose garden. Members 2020, Tulsa Garden Club of Tulsa Garden garnered an Ames Tool Club joined local Grant, which provided landscape professionals materials and tools for and horticulture experts the club to use in ongoing at nearby academic efforts at the rose garden. institutions in an effort to return the Tulsa Municipal Empowering Future Rose Garden – and the Gardeners graceful, fragrant roses Since the 1950s, that once bloomed the garden club has there – to its original supported scholarships botanical garden design for students at Oklahoma and splendor. Toward State University majoring that effort, the garden in horticulture, and club established the more recently, in the Tulsa Garden Club Rose university’s new landscape Fund, and through the architecture program. The generous donations OSU Foundation currently from the community, manages the club’s new and replacement endowment that funds plants – selected for multiple scholarships each their hardiness and year. disease-resistant qualities Students in horticulture – were purchased. The studies at Tulsa garden club also plans to Community College also continue to raise funds benefit. Today, the TCC toward the rose garden’s Foundation manages the ongoing restoration club’s endowment for the and maintenance. In college’s Second Chance program, which helps fund horticulture-programming New roses were selected for their hardiness and disease-resistant scholarships, certification, qualities.
24 | The National Gardener Spring 2021| 25 Since 1929, members of Tulsa Garden Club have opened their own gardens and arranged public tours to help visitors learn more about ornamental, vegetable and herb gardening, natural and functional hardscape, water management, and lighting. Proceeds benefit the projects of Tulsa Garden Club. In 2020, the 70th Annual Garden Tour was canceled due to area COVID-19 restrictions. Members hope to resume the tour this year.
as well as maintenance Garden Clubs Inc. Visit and supplies for inmates tulsagardenclub.org/ participating in the work program at Dick Conner Rose Shultz President Correctional Center, a Tulsa Garden Club medium-security prison [email protected] for men in Hominy, Oklahoma. Photos courtesy Tulsa Garden Club is of Tulsa Garden a member of Oklahoma Club
the Works Progress which connects Miami Administration (WPA), to Key West, in Florida; an ambitious public Great Smoky Mountains works program created National Park in by then U.S. President Tennessee; Hoover Dam, Franklin D. Roosevelt which spans the Black as part of the American Canyon of the Colorado New Deal initiative River and provides to employ millions of electric power to Arizona, job-seekers in the years Nevada and Southern Visitors to Woodward Park often following the Great California; and the Grand navigate to the many green spaces offered at the popular Depression in the United Coulee Dam in the state destination. States. The successful of Washington – the program launched a largest dam in the United About number of significant States and one of the Woodward Park projects across the largest in the world. nation, including the In 2014, Woodward Woodward Park was Lincoln Tunnel in New Park was added to the completed in 1934 York City; The Overseas National Register of under the direction of Highway (U.S. Route 1), Historic Places.
2626 || TheThe National National Gardener Gardener Spring 2021| 27 ENHANCING THE COMMUNITY THROUGH community projects
estled in the heart of Michigan in each summer NGenesee County, the community of to water, Grand Blanc is known for its welcoming deadhead spirit and beautiful, user-friendly parks. flowers and For nearly 30 years, members of Touch maintain the the Earth Garden Club in Grand Blanc gardens. have played an integral role in civic The club’s beautification through multiple planting main objective projects. Founded in 1991, garden club is to stimulate members have worked with city officials the love of on the planning and maintenance on gardening, a wide variety of community garden encourage projects at a historical museum, city home and hall and city parks. Efforts include community pollinator gardens, two Monarch Watch beautification, Waystations, as well as an NGC Blue promote better Star Memorial Marker at nearby Great horticulture Interpretive signage for the Monarch Watch Waystation Lakes National Cemetery. Each spring, practices and and pollinator garden members meet to clean up and plant encourage was provided by the MSU Extension Master Gardener flowers in community gardens and again all forms of Association. each fall to put them to bed for the winter. Club members also volunteer At Rust Park, raised garden beds were designed and built to provide accessibility in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act.
26 | The National Gardener Spring 2021| 27 A footbridge leads to the native conservation. However, garden, a project made possible Rust Park – A Gathering by a 2019 NGC native garden as many members of the Place grant. garden club may attest, Over the years, the their success at civic garden club has earned beautification is credited accolades for its many to providing ongoing community beautification education and encouraging efforts on the local and active participation in club state level, and in 2019, endeavors. received an NGC grant
A monarch visits a butterfly bush in the perennial garden, which is a Monarch Watch Waystation, at the Grand Blanc Heritage Museum. Plant markers were provided by the MSU Extension Master Gardeners Association.
Spring bulb Children from a local preschool ‘early risers.’ participate in a “dig and take” activity at the native garden. Students also learned about pollinators at the Monarch Watch Waystation garden.
...the “garden club has earned accolades for its many community beautification efforts on the local and state level... ” ABOVE AND TOP MIDDLE: A bleeding heart blooms Spring tulips and daffodils. in early May
28 | The National Gardener Spring 2021| 29 Garden club Petunias, marigolds and fan flowers bloom in a garden members bed at Grand Blanc City Hall. maintain plantings at an NGC Blue Star Memorial Marker at the entrance to the Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly, Michigan. Garden club members planted the NGC Plant America narcissus, which offers a burst of color each spring.
for native gardens to continue its work at Rust Park, which is a beautiful pertinent to the area. Considered a green space within valuable resource for area history and the city. Situated genealogical records, the museum offers on 20 acres, the interactive exhibits and displays that park features provide insight into the days of early a children’s garden, pavilion, a agriculture in the region through the “human sundial”, picnic tables, fenced Victorian era. playground, tennis and basketball courts, Members of Touch the Earth Garden baseball diamond and walking trails. A Club play an active role in a variety of popular community destination, the park civic beautification projects. also hosts fun annual water races on They often work in tandem with other Thread Creek, which runs through the area like-minded organizations, including park. The land for the park was donated Keep Genesee County Beautiful, to the City of Grand Blanc in 1939 by Michigan’s first affiliate of Keep America E. Sumner and Mary Rust in honor and Beautiful; the beautification committee memory of their nephew, Lt. William H. of the City of Grand Blanc; and the Rust, a native of Grand Blanc who was Genesee County Master Gardeners of killed in action in 1918 while serving with the Michigan State University Extension Company K, 125th Infantry Regiment in Master Gardener Program (MGP). The France in World War I. club is a member of Michigan Garden Clubs Inc. A Garden Showcase Members of Touch the Earth Garden Sue Hendrix President Club created, and maintain, the tranquil Touch the Earth Garden Club garden setting at the Grand Blanc [email protected] Heritage Museum. The museum houses historic artifacts and memorabilia Photos courtesy of Touch the Earth Garden Club
28 | The National Gardener Spring 2021| 29 THE
Happy GARDENER’S Guide
SEED DREAMS
ne of my favorite lettuces and balmy basil Orites of spring is start to dance about in receiving my annual my head as soon as I hear mailing of seed catalogues the clink of the envelope and making my seed landing in the mailbox. wish list. Visions of red, Soon after, the floral juicy tomatoes, sunshiny dreams begin: wild bee squash, velvety fingers balm, vining sweet peas, of okra, crunchy crisp sweet violas, passionate
30 | The National Gardener Spring 2021| 31 poppies and tiers pink celery offers a of sunflowers and distinctive, robust flavor. vibrant zinnias. Let Although its fiber does the parade of annuals not lend toward it being march through my a snack food, it stays perennials and take exceptionally fresh in its place in the sun. a refrigerator drawer. My seed dreams will Even just a few heads of become real seeds pink celery can deliver and real specimens in months of seasonings for good time. stir-fry dishes. Besides, Though this ritual how much fun is it to ask has been performed a friend or stranger, “Did The easy-to-grow Chinese Pink Celery numerous times, the completes the nutritional rainbow. you know celery comes tingle of expectation in pink?” continues to head off the winter The Rocky Ford Cantaloupe™, world- doldrums, infusing my spirit with fresh famous since 1887, is readily available thoughts of the coming spring that will in my area and I seldom grow my own. warm the earth and let us be busy in the But would I consider a small, green, garden once more. white and orange-striped melon from While it’s desirable to plant cultivars the Punjab region of India? Curiosity that have already earned their got the better of me and I dove into reliable status, spring also affords the new territory with glee. Could I get the opportunity to dream and invite some beautiful Cucumis melo ‘Kajari melon’ newcomers to the garden table. I was in to grow in a far different landscape a particularly cheeky, adventurous mood than the fertile lands of Punjab? The last year when I decided on some options answer is a resounding “yes!” In addition from the Punjab region of India, the to its striking appearance, the fruit is Orient and Italy. considerate enough to alert the grower Why not try Apium graveolens ‘Chinese exactly when it is ready to be picked – pink celery’? Popular in Northern China, when it’s fully ripe, touch it gently and it it sounded like an attractive choice, even will fall from the vine. It is most helpful if its usefulness might be in question. I to let the fruit itself declare its ripeness! learned that when started from seed, This was a revelation, as I’ve often been pink celery looks very delicate, but its amiss in determining the right time for looks betray its hardy nature. True the optimum enjoyment of a melon. The to form, it melon’s pale green branched into flesh is soft and ...pink celery a sturdy clump the taste is “looks very of pink stems similar to nearly a foot honeydew, delicate, but its tall. When but much looks betray its harvested sweeter. and cooked The Kajari is hardy nature. an heirloom in a stir-fry melon grown in ” of veggies, the Punjab region of India.
30 | The National Gardener Spring 2021| 31 Its wonderful fruity fragrance rivals any popular perfume. The Nardello family brought the seeds for this excellent sweet pepper to the United States when they emigrated from Italy in 1887. Today, this pepper is included in the Ark of Taste, an international catalogue of endangered heritage food maintained by the Slow Food Foundation. Many chefs favor this sweet Italian frying pepper for its mild, fruity contribution to whatever veggies are in the sauté pan. For gardeners like me who struggle to get peppers to thrive, the Capsicum annum ‘Jimmy Nardello’ is an answer to a garden prayer. The classic “sports car red” pepper has the appearance of The snake bean quickly fills out a hot chili pepper, but a trellis with foliage. Its tiny blossoms, shaped like frilly stars, has a mild, spicy flavor. attract pollinators. Are you up to the The Jimmy Nardello pepper is Jimmy Nardello pepper dependable to grow and delicious in flavor. challenge? Think of the fun factor of videotaping yourself desired an optimal-sized python, I calmly chomping on several of these and trimmed out slower-growing ones and sharing the astonishing sight to your still was rewarded with a wheelbarrow friends or grandchildren? full of four-to-six foot long beans! With Saving my best experimental dream COVID-19 restrictions limiting visitors until last, let me introduce you to the to my garden, I didn’t get to share with Trichosanthes cucumerina ‘Chinese others the fun of growing this bean; Python’ snake bean. It is the largest and however, the perfectly harmless bean thickest of its variety, growing up to 60 “snakes” hanging from the archway trellis inches in length and 1.5 inches thick. always elicited a smile from me. Southeast Asia is the usual habitat for Maybe the best part of “dream this prolific vine that bears loads of seeding” the garden with newcomers elongated vegetables. Technically, this from distant lands is not only the curious specimen is in the squash family, wonders they bring to the table, but the but its python-like appearance belies its fun connections to people and places far proper biology. away. There is hardly a more entertaining vegetable for the garden! Regarding Charlotte A. Swanson Consultant, Gardening Schools care and maintenance, the snake bean [email protected] requires a strong trellis and occasional trimming to keep it in place. Since I Photos by Charlotte A. Swanson
32 | The National Gardener Spring 2021| 33 The Espoma Great Depression and brand leader, Espoma Company began the years that followed. offers over 70 popular production in 1929 with However, growth was organic products and its first product, Espoma slow and the work manufactures over Organic, a proprietary hard. During this time, 50-million pounds blend of natural materials Sanders anticipated the of organic fertilizer available near the need for a new type of per year, making it a company’s location in plant food specifically leading provider of Millville, New Jersey. The designed for hollies and organic fertilizers for the ingredients in Espoma other acid-loving plants. retail lawn and garden Organic were blended His pioneering spirit and industries. and bagged using shovels, industry insights led to the The evolution of wheelbarrows and scales testing of several plant Espoma’s once-modest – tasks accomplished food formulations with manufacturing facility through the painstaking local nurseries. The result to the capabilities of the efforts and hard work was Holly-tone® – the modern, state-of-the- of scores of dedicated first organically balanced art operation in Millville employees. fertilizer developed and today is a reflection of the With product in hand, formulated to fulfill the company’s growth and Espoma founder H.G. requirements of acid- success through hands- Sanders set out on the loving plants. on family ownership, road selling in the New Today, Holly-tone quality products and York, Philadelphia and is considered by dedicated workforce. This Washington D.C. markets. professional and amateur time-honored spirit will This successful strategy gardeners to be the continue to provide the helped the company number-one plant impetus for Espoma well survive the economic hard food for all acid loving into the 21st century. times brought on by the plants. In addition to this Visit espoma.com
Espoma is accepting applications for the Espoma Plant America Grant October 1, 2020 – May 31, 2021 For more information and/or to apply for the grant, visit espoma.com/garden-clubs/ or gardenclub.org/projects/espoma
32 | The National Gardener Spring 2021| 33 environmental, gardening and landscape design SCHOOLS
ourses for Environmental, Students and consultants, especially C Gardening and Landscape Design those living out-of-state of the event, Schools are being held via Zoom video should inform their state school chairman conferencing until they can be held in an of their attendance. Students completing in-person classroom setting. Some state their 4th course need to complete chairmen are planning “hybrid” courses Form 6, the Consultant Accreditation where the event is in the classroom with Application, along with their registration some of the instructors presenting their form for the event. Consultants seeking topics live and/or via Zoom. This course refresher credit should complete and format is a wonderful opportunity to learn from some of the best experts and instructors at a minimum to no cost. We are adding to our national list Please visit NGC Schools of highly recommended instructors who Course Calendars at are willing to teach by Zoom. Students and consultants enjoy the opportunity to www.gardenclub.org learn in a safe environment.
Dear Readers of valued columnist. She penned “The The National Gardener, Happy Gardener’s Guide” articles in each TNG magazine, which offered As my six-year tenure as your NGC her unique insights into gardening. Gardening Schools chairman comes to a Thank you Charlotte! close, I want to express my thanks and • Our NGC gardening committee commend the NGC gardening consultants led the way to develop guidelines and authors who have so willingly for NGC Environmental Schools, contributed to the educational content of Gardening Schools and Landscape this publication: Design Schools in the use of the • Charlotte Swanson, a gardening Zoom video conferencing virtual consultant who completed all four platform. We formed a Zoom Beta GSS courses in Nebraska five years Advisory group in June, 2020, which ago, has been a consistent and
34 | The National Gardener Spring 2021| 35 submit Form 7, Consultant Refresher Application, with the registration form to verify their eligibility to receive credit before the course starts. Please note: BENT AND consultants may receive ONE refresher TWISTED STUDIO credit in a calendar year for each of the Fundraising Ways schools in which they are a consultant. and Means Packages Upon completion of Form 5, Course Ken Swartz Roster and Summary, by local chairman and/or state event chairman following Sculptor of Abstract Metal Floral Design each course, the rosters of all of the Containers for NGC for over 23 years Large and Small Boxes attending students and consultants • 3-7 Large Sculptures will be sent to all of the state chairmen. • 8-15 Minis The state chairmen will verify and sign • Magnet Tubes Form 6, Consultant Application(s), and Our sculptures make great design Form 7, Refresher Application(s), for the examples at symposiums, conventions, students and consultants in their state. design schools, judges’ councils and The applications will be sent electronically Flower Show Schools. to the appropriate accrediting chairmen Our Guarantee to approve and then forward to the NGC • All items are FREE • We pay all shipping Schools secretary for recording in the • We ship directly to your event NGC Schools database. • All items pre-labeled with prices The biggest concern with Zoom • Keep items until they are sold courses is keeping student and consultant records accurate and updated YOU RECEIVE 15% OF ALL SALES in a timely manner. We have had CALL 414.258.7902 students completing all four courses by www.bentandtwistedstudio.com attending out-of-state events. The state [email protected] chairmen involved were unable continued on page 36...
published a Zoom Course Kit to We hope that you will continue to enable NGC Schools to continue take advantage of all methods of NGC- virtually during the COVID-19 sponsored educational activities using pandemic and beyond. Last Zoom, as well as in classroom venues. year, three Zoom Beta gardening Education is the key to NGC member courses were held in summer and retention and growth! an environmental course offered Happy Gardening! in September. In winter, we encouraged Michigan Garden Clubs Barbara Hadsell Inc. to share its Zoom technology Chairman, Gardening Schools [email protected] expertise with NGC members in
the United States and International Affiliates.
34 | The National Gardener Spring 2021| 35 ...continued from page 35 Judy Newman Chairman, Environmental Schools to verify attendance because the Chairman, Schools Policy Committee state chairmen had NO knowledge [email protected] or documentation (rosters) to verify Barbara Hadsell student/consultant attendance. State Chairman, Gardening Schools chairmen and accrediting chairmen have [email protected] received guidelines for the processing of Greg Pokorski paperwork for Environmental, Gardening Chairman and Landscape Design Schools courses to Landscape Design Schools manage these new complexities. [email protected]
have been updated and are available on the FSS main page on the NGC website gardenclub.org Courses for Flower Show Schools and Symposiums are scheduled for the flower show coming months. Please view the latest information on the FSS main page of the SCHOOLS NGC website. Click on the words Flower Show School Courses or Symposium Courses. Clubs are meeting in small groups or through virtual platforms to keep the garden club connection alive. Remember to share photos and information with the he writing of this article for the NGC social media committee. The NGC T spring The National Gardener FSS Committee also is virtually connected comes at the end of January, when we and addressing questions from NGC continue to hope that our future will members. Spring will renew us all in spirit improve over the next several months. and connection. Clubs are planning flower shows to take My best to you as we bloom! bloom during the spring, summer and fall. Safety and social distancing will be in Jan Warshauer place as local requirements are followed. Chairman, Flower Show Schools A Sample Standard Flower Show [email protected] schedule is available for clubs to use as a tool when preparing a plan for a flower show. This schedule is available through state Judges Councils or clubs may Please visit NGC Schools contact the NGC Flower Show Schools Course Calendars at Committee directly. The two Small Standard Flower Show model schedules, www.gardenclub.org associated with the Stimulus Package,
36 | The National Gardener Spring 2021| 37 gardening on the bay
ast year was a challenging year for programs on hold, and focused instead L garden clubs across the nation. Local on outdoor gardening opportunities in and regional restrictions to stem the their community. spread of the coronavirus dramatically The first project on the list was the changed how garden clubs go about Remembrance Garden at the John W. their activities and projects. As a result, Masury estate, which is on two acres of members of Moriches Bay Garden Club waterfront property in Center Moriches in Center Moriches on Long Island, New in Suffolk County. Masury rose to fame York, put the majority of their scheduled during the Second Industrial Revolution – a period of rapid standardization and industrialization in the late 19th century. His many innovations and inventions in the manufacturing of paint, including the metal paint can and dripless lid – still sold today in local hardware stores – revolutionized the industry. In 1898, construction was completed on Masury’s stately Colonial Revival-style mansion
Members of Moriches Bay Garden Club are active volunteers in their community, performing a variety of gardening activities, including maintenance and upkeep, at a number of important historic and area sites including garden areas at The Shrine of Our Lady of the Island in Manorville, New York, and the community garden at Crystal Beach Community Park, a waterfront community, which features a private beach and marina.
36 | The National Gardener Spring 2021| 37 Maintenance-friendly plants surround the pergola in the Remembrance Garden on the grounds of the historic John W. Masury estate in Center Moriches, New York. The historic garden was destroyed by Hurricane Sandy in 2012. Members of Moriches Bay Garden Club refurbished and continue to maintain the garden.
and outbuildings. The estate, originally situated on 200 sprawling acres, served as the family’s summer escape from the heat of New York City. The Masurys hosted lavish damaged ballroom back was added to the National parties in the famous to its original splendor, Register of Historic Places ballroom in the recreation and it remains in use for in 1986, and also is wing of the home, meetings and special listed on state and town including formal dances events. The garden club registers for historic sites. for servicemen during has hosted standard World War II. In 1938, flower shows at the A Garden Restoration the Great New England popular area landmark. In October 2012, the Hurricane – one of the In the 1950s, a gardens and grounds of most powerful and deadly developer envisioned the estate were impacted tropical cyclones recorded and built Holiday Beach, significantly by Hurricane in history – leveled the a vibrant, waterfront Sandy, which affected mansion, but the historic community on the 24 states and most of ballroom adjacent to the property. In 1957, the the Eastern seaboard. In main house was spared. Holiday Beach Property March 2013, members of What remained of the Owners Association the Moriches Garden Club estate house had long purchased the ballroom took on the extraordinary been dismantled, but building for use as the task of refurbishing volunteers brought the association’s clubhouse. It the flooded garden by
The historic ballroom at the John W. Masury estate.
38 | The National Gardener Spring 2021| 39 Another project that was completed outdoors by members of Moriches Bay Garden Club was the installation of an NGC Blue Star Memorial By-Way Marker in Center Moriches. The club facilitated the installation as part of an Eagle Scout project by a member of a local Boy Scout troop. Members offered additional support for the project by hosting a bake sale fundraiser and donated the proceeds, as well as purchased and planted the five blue star junipers, at the base of the marker.
alyssum and herbs were chosen for their deer-resistance qualities. Spirea, original to the site and one of the few plantings that weathered the storm, were moved to frame the four posts of the pergola. Daffodils were planted for a burst of spring color. A $1,000 donation from the Cornwall Garden Club provided the purchase of flats of petunias to fill in garden areas. However, as many gardeners will attest, even the most “deer resistant” plants attract deer, which were attracted to the newly planted sedum. Club members have been replacing those areas with coreopsis and additional herbs. The garden is now a lovely destination to enjoy the fragrances of the herbs and flowers and calming water view.
Maureen Pollack President Moriches Bay Garden Club installing maintenance-friendly plants [email protected] that would tolerate saltwater spray, sun, morichesbaygardenclub.org wind and deer. The iconic pergola and Federated Garden Clubs of New York State Inc. brick walkway managed to withstand the Reference: http://www.thetideofmoriches.com/ forces from the hurricane and provided moriches-bay-garden-club/ a template for choosing the right plants. Photos by Maureen Pollack Seaside gardens fare best if plants with thin leaves and compact growing habits are used. The garden club selected six varieties of sedum as the main perennial. Sedum’s tough, waxy leaves repel saltwater spray and limit dehydration. Iris, lavender, catmint, hedge roses,
Sharon Ott, Moriches Bay Garden Club, and granddaughter Skylar, volunteer at the Remembrance Garden at the John W. Masury estate. The garden club received a $1,000 grant from Cornwall Garden Club in Cornwall, New York, to help in the efforts to refurbish the garden following its devastation by Hurricane Sandy in 2012.
38 | The National Gardener Spring 2021| 39 Landscape DESIGN
garden center shelves that fails to inspire THE BEAUTY us with the lack of color or floral appeal. OF BULBS This is unfortunate, since hardy bulbs are great “tools” for adding bursts of color Versatile in landscaping throughout the spring, summer and into and garden design, bulbs autumn.
earn their keep The Dirt on Geophytes To be proper, this group of plants BY BRUCE CRAWFORD should be termed geophytes, rather than bulbs. Unknown by most, a true s we walk through our landscapes bulb is merely one category found within and gardens this spring and A geophytes. Of course, that will probably summer, let’s imagine what we could add never happen, since from to enhance our displays. a marketing standpoint, Flowering bulbs are an there is nothing truly important addition to any ...a true memorable about the word landscape or garden, and “ geophyte. The word literally contribute a wide variety of bulb is merely means ‘earth plant’, as geo bloom color, flowering time, one category is from the Greek gea for plant height and shape to found within Earth and phyto for plant. any design. Oddly, bulbs It was coined by Danish may not be an item many geophytes. botanist and ecologist gardeners contemplate ” Christen Raunkiaer (1860 adding to their garden or –1938) when he developed landscaping come autumn. a classification system based upon the Most likely, it may be their appearance on
40 | The National Gardener Spring 2021| 41 Allium sphaerocephalon ‘Drumstick Flower Leek’ adds interest and movement to the landscape at Wave Hill, a popular public garden and cultural center in the Bronx, New York City.
location of dormant buds in relation classifications. The true bulb consists to the ground. His most well-known of layers of modified leaves, or leaf division is probably epiphyte, or plants stalks that are attached at their base to dwelling far above the ground, including a modified stem called a basal plate. It orchids and bromeliads. Geophytes are is from the basal plate that the roots storage organs containing carbohydrates, develop. A typical and familiar example nutrients and an appropriate amount of is an onion; when it is cut in half, the water that will allow the plant to endure rings are the layers of modified leaves. extended periods when the weather is The outer layers are called scales, unsuitable for active growth. They allow which contain the necessary “food” a plant to endure from one season to the to sustain the bulb during dormancy next – and for enthusiasts of the long- and early growth. The very outermost running TV game show Jeopardy! – this scales become dry and form a papery process is called perennation. Geophytes covering called a tunic. At the center are are native to regions of the world where developed, albeit embryonic flowers, there is a short window when the climate leaves and stem(s), waiting to shoot is ideal for the production of foliage, skyward once the conditions are proper. flowers and finally seed. The remainder Examples of bulbs include Galanthus of the year it is too hot, dry or cold for the ‘Snowdrops’, Narcissus ‘Daffodil’, Allium plants to actively grow, so they simply lie ‘Flowering Onion’ and Tulipa ‘Tulip’. dormant, waiting until the conditions are Other major forms of geophytes are once again appropriate for active growth. corms and stem tubers, both of which Geophytes are divided into several employ modified stems for perennation. Corms resemble true bulbs, with eyes or growing points developing at the top and a basal plate below for root production. The dried bases of the leaves once again form an outer layer, or tunic. When a corm is cut in half, the tissue is solid and lacks the rings typifying a bulb. An example includes Crocus. A stem tuber is also a modified stem, but it lacks a basal plate and a tunic. The roots, shoots and leaves grow from small growing points or eyes that can appear on the top or bottom of the tuber. Examples include Cyclamen and Eranthis ‘Winter Aconite’. Other geophytes include tuberous roots. Tuberous roots are enlarged storage elements that resemble tubers, but are actually swollen roots, not stems.
The vigorous Allium sphaerocephalon can grow up to 18 inches tall. Its long-lasting flowers are popular to use in fresh and dried cut flower arrangements.
40 | The National Gardener Spring 2021| 41 During active growth, they produce its foliage does not become dormant a fibrous root system for water and until mid-to-late June. In New Jersey, for nutrient absorption and new flowering example, Narcissus is among the easiest stems. Buds for new growth form at the major bulbs to grow, as it is native to junction of the stem of the previous year, regions of Spain and Southern France, and on the top of the tuberous root. An which have climatic conditions similar to example is Dahlia. our state. To further complicate matters, geophytes are often divided into “major Lay the Groundwork for Early Risers bulbs,” and “minor bulbs.” Major bulbs Before planting bulbs, it’s helpful to have an underground structure with a draw up a plan. A simple sketch will diameter of one inch or larger, such as not only provide an approximate idea many tulips and daffodils. Minor bulbs on how many bulbs to purchase, but have underground structures smaller also a record of which bulbs – their than one inch, such as Galanthus and particular blooming habits, height and Crocus. Minor bulbs also have the color – are planted. There are endless advantage of being more opportunities to plant bulbs freely self-seeding and in landscaping, including naturalizing. around deciduous shrubs Geophytes typically, ...all and trees, on steep slopes, although not always, geophytes“ as ground cover, as well as grow in regions with very would be in borders, perennial beds, little summer rainfall. rock gardens or containers. Drainage is usually good to planted to a Bulbs also are turf-friendly excellent, with most soils depth equaling – a great way to naturalize having a neutral to alkaline the lawn. pH. Geophytes are very three times the • Most bulbs generally adaptable, but to grow diameter of the are inexpensive in cost, their best, these conditions structure. which is beneficial to the should be duplicated ” budget, as it generally is wherever possible. Many of recommended that bulbs the early spring bloomers be planted in large sweeps, can be grown – and with or mass plantings, to luck, naturalized – in shrub borders or achieve the best possible impact in mixed borders beneath leggy, and still landscaping and gardens. In fact, slumbering, deciduous shrubs. The minor bulbs should be planted in timing is perfect, since before the shrubs numbers of no less than 200 to 300 leaf out, adequate sunlight reaches the per area, with the ideal placement ground for the geophytes to develop of four or five bulbs in a 6-inch new underground structures for the diameter hole to achieve the best following year. Once the shrubs leaf impact! out, the bulbs go dormant! Plus, the • As a rule of thumb, all geophytes area beneath shrubs is usually dry come should be planted to a depth summer, creating the proper conditions equaling three times the diameter of for many geophytes to thrive. Narcissus the structure. If they are planted too is best grown in areas with full sun, since shallow, they will produce new corms
42 | The National Gardener Spring 2021| 43 or bulbs too small to produce flowers, resulting in the primary complaint of “my bulbs produce only green foliage and no flowers”. • Most geophytes can be easily transplanted in spring while still in leaf or planted in late summer through mid-fall as a dormant structure. Do not remove the foliage until after it has completely withered and dried. Although it becomes unsightly, the carbohydrates produced from these leaves directly support the development of a large and healthy geophyte for a good flower display the following year.
• Flowers of most When planted in large clusters, the giant snowdrop creates a dramatic minor bulbs result effect in landscapes, especially at the base of a tree. in viable seeds, developing young, leaf, but since the foliage with many species discarding the seed normally goes dormant in producing seeds once the elaiosome early to mid-May, they are that include a small, is devoured. In this ideal for planting in drifts white lipid-rich manner, the seeds under shade trees, among appendage called are distributed far shrubs and even in turf. an elaiosome. Ants and wide and the All naturalize readily and are attracted to this plants naturalize! as an added bonus – both appendage, which The choices are Galanthus and Eranthis usually has aromatic overwhelming, but of the have proven to be deer compounds and is minor bulbs, some of my resistant! rich in lipids. Ants “raves and faves” include Galanthus, ‘Snowdrop’, will carry off the seed the genera Galanthus, is a true bulb and and either consume Eranthis and Crocus. All harbinger of spring, the elaiosome three prefer well-drained named in 1735 by noted or feed it to the soils and full sun while in Swedish botanist Carl
42 | The National Gardener Spring 2021| 43 Linnaeus (1717-1778). slightly larger, with flowers Flowers appear in late opening to 2 inches in February and March. diameter and stretching Two readily available 10-to-12 inches high. forms are the common Also known as ‘Elwes’s snowdrop, G. nivalis and Snowdrop’, the plant the giant snowdrop, G. honors British botanist elwesii. G. nivalis was and entomologist John named by Linnaeus, with Elwes (1846-1922). the species epithet coming Eranthis hyemalis, from the Latin meaning ‘Winter Aconite’, is in the “of the snow”. It grows to buttercup family and true 8 inches tall, with 1-inch to its family roots, has diameter flowers. The bright buttercup yellow common snowdrop also flowers in late February has a double-flowered and early March. Eranthis selection called flora comes from the Greek plena, in which the extra “er,” meaning spring, and name salutes its season petals promote a more “anthis” for flower, while to flower! The flowers plump appearance. As the the species epithet comes appear to sit atop the common name implies, from the Latin “hyems” whirl of foliage, much like the giant snowdrop is for winter. Clearly, the a frog perched upon a lily pad. The plants are 4-to-6 inches tall while in bloom and stretch up to 6-to- 10 inches after bloom. Introduced from Smyrna, Turkey, in 1892, and in reference to the ancient region of Southeast Asia called Cilicia, Eranthis cilicica is another species
To ensure optimum hydration before planting in autumn, soak winter aconite tubers in water for 2-to-4 hours. For successful transplanting, divide an existing clump while it is still in leaf.
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44 | The National Gardener Spring 2021| 45 The blooms of Tom’s crocus emerge in early March and Due to its slender foliage, it also blends range in color from nearly white to lavender-blue. well with turf. Seeds are produced close that is well worth planting. Compared to the ground, which prevents them from to its better-known cousin, it blooms being removed if they are mown before one to two weeks later, as well as has they split open. smaller leaf segments, larger flowers A great crocus for the autumn and purplish-red flower stems. It is great landscaping and garden is Crocus to use both species in the landscaping speciosus ‘Bieberstein’s Crocus’. The or garden as they extend the splash of common name stems from its author bright color into late winter! – Friedrich August Marschall von Of the many available selections Bieberstein (1768-1826), whose military of crocus, Crocus tommasinianus, excursions as secretary and aide-de-camp ‘Tom’s Crocus’, is a much underutilized to the Russian General Count Kochovoski species that naturalizes readily in the allowed him to study and collect plant landscape or garden. The species epithet specimens throughout the Caucasus and honors Muzio G. Spirito de Tommasini Crimea. The open flower – which appears (1794-1879), a mayor of Triest, Italy, from October into November – measures and botanist who discovered the 2 inches in full bloom and features a light plants growing on the limestone hills blue base that gradually transitions to of Dalmatia, a region in Croatia. For darker blue near the tips. landscapers, it also is one of the best species for seeding and naturalizing lawns, or for placement under trees.
Crowned with a tessellated orange style, both the inside and outside petals of Bieberstein’s crocus are laced with dark blue veins, or nectar guides, which guide pollinators to their rewards.
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44 | The National Gardener Spring 2021| 45 The sudden appearance of flowers on the surprise (or resurrection) lily after foliage has faded gives rise to the common names.
Of the major bulbs, most gardeners provide an enormous amount of eye and landscapers have been exposed appeal to the landscaping and garden! to the bevy of narcissus, tulips and flowering onion or Allium that are on Photos by Bruce Crawford the market. However, one plant that is Bruce Crawford is a longtime proponent of widely available in catalogues, yet rarely unusual and fun plants. For nearly 25 years, appears in private or public plantings, is he led his own design-build garden design Lycoris squamigera, or the ‘Surprise’ or business that specialized in plantings for ‘Resurrection’ lily. year-round interest. One of his outstanding A member of the amaryllis family, projects was featured in Fine Gardening, the the strap-like foliage is reminiscent to popular industry magazine. From 2005 to narcissus, appearing in the spring and 2020, Crawford served as director of the 180- acre Rutgers Gardens, the botanical garden going dormant in mid-June. In late July of Rutgers University, the State University of into August, 2-foot tall stems magically New Jersey in New Brunswick. As an instructor appear, with a whirl of three-to-eight pink in the landscape architecture program at trumpet-shaped flowers atop the stems. Rutgers University since 1987, he also is the The flowers typically have a wash or state program leader for home and public overtone of blue in the trumpet throats, horticulture at the New Jersey Agricultural making it fun to combine them with other Experiment Station. Crawford lectures pink or blue summer bloomers. frequently to various groups and for continuing Clearly, there are many additional education programs. selections of bulbs that add richness and He has yet to find depth to the landscaping and garden a plant he does not like! that shrubs and perennials simply cannot achieve. As autumn approaches, Visit https:// I urge avid gardeners to examine bulb njaes. catalogues or peruse the shelves of a rutgers.edu/ local garden center to discover the many unique and inexpensive plants that
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