THE NATIONAL gardenerSPRING 2021 - BLOOMING ON THE GRAND GARDENING ON THE BAY THE BEAUTY - National Garden Clubs, Inc.
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gardener THE NATIONAL SPRING 2021 BLOOMING ON THE GRAND - GARDENING ON THE BAY - THE BEAUTY OF BULBS 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. rica’ Be a part of ‘Plant Ame ity grow! and watch your commun Your good work to be reco deserves gnized... Visit us at www.espoma.com and join our gardening community 2 | The National Gardener
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 7 50 States and the National Capital Area 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 patricia.b.binder@gmail.com 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 headquarters@gardenclub.org 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: headquarters@gardenclub.org 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 Spring 2021| 3
Gay L. Austin 2019-2021 NGC President President’s Message D uring a recent morning walk, I noticed the first group of migratory robins in the open pasture close to connection with garden club members around our world sustains my sense 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
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 • 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 the dedication a wide range of topics, and talent of with a focus on National our NGC staff at “ Garden Clubs Inc., All NGC 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 community of of knowledge. ” Boston University News; 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 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
Celebrate National Garden Week in your community Join NGC to celebrate National Garden Week! N ational Garden 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. 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- SaraElisabeth@gmail.com 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
blooming on the grand Photo by Barb Hoogeboom A stroll along the Grand River in downtown Grand Rapids, Michigan, can be a delightful experience in nearly Basin in Washington D.C. In spring 2016, members of the 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 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 “ In 2020, total of 12 cherry trees 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 Gardening on the Grand is a project initiated by begonias. ” garden, which features a prominent marker 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
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 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 President In only four years, preserve the city’s iconic Kent Garden Club a total of 50 Kwanzan tree canopy and beautiful Akw47@comcast.net 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 Museum. An overgrown area Rapids – to (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 by Barb Hoogeboom. canopy and add 12 | The National Gardener
PLANT AMERICA community project grants C ongratulations to the 51 garden clubs across the nation that have been awarded 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 drobson@illinois.edu • 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. 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
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! Plant Carolina 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 Spring 2021| 15
‘show me state’ garden club GOES FULL STEAM AHEAD ON PLANT AMERICA COMMUNITY PROJECT M embers of Clayton Garden Club in Clayton, Missouri, are working with local children and families to create tools in which to implement 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. Judy King Funds for the project provided Publicity Chairman materials for two raised beds for each Clayton Garden Club classroom, including soil, seeds and judycxking41@gmail.com child-sized gardening tools. Children will be able to activate all five senses while they learn, explore and grow vegetables and herbs for their classroom. The ABOUT HEAD START 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
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. F or more than 18 years, members of Norwood Garden Club in Knoxville, Tennessee, sponsor the one-day Mustard Growing Good Stewards of the Earth Mustard Seed Camp provides 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 “ and encourage youth children and their families The primary to be active participants each year, is held at the objective is to in the community, the Ivan Racheff House, a environment and become historic home built in educate and good stewards of the earth. 1902 with gardens in encourage youth Through fun hands-on Knoxville. Situated on three acres that feature to be active instruction and activities, attendees learn the value seasonal plantings, the participants in the of gardening activities. home plays an integral role as part of Racheff Park & Garden, and also community.... ” Environmental issues also are introduced to campers. 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 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 or plants. Older campers as local businesses and Camp return to volunteer organizations in Knoxville, The day begins with in the garden to earn support the camp the opportunity for each community service credit each year. Community attendee to choose from for their projects or clubs efforts include creating a variety of donated in middle school or high attendance certificates flowers, seeds or bulbs school. Members from or goodie bags, donating and plant them in the area Boy Scout or Girl refreshments, as well children’s garden area. Scout troops also have as supplying plants and Campers are then divided taken on projects at the seeds for campers to into three age-appropriate garden. take home. Through groups to participate the community’s Maggi Burns in the day’s planned contributions of tools, President rotation of activities. materials and financial Tennessee Federation of Garden Professional speakers support, Norwood Garden Clubs Inc. from the surrounding MaggiTFGC@epbfi.com Club is able to offer the area are invited to share camp free of charge to Photos courtesy their knowledge and 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
digging in GARDEN CLUB MEMBERS TURN INTEREST INTO ACTION M embers of Dig and Dream Garden Club in Centennial, Colorado, measure the success of their volunteer is part of the Arapahoe County Public Libraries system. The following year, the 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. 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 furnished their own gardening and work closely with 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 offer docent-led garden tours for materials. Day Plant Sale on the adults and children. 20 | The National Gardener
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 activities due to local “ By-Way Marker at The garden club restrictions from the Fort Logan National Cemetery. The 214- works diligently to coronavirus, the club acre national cemetery find creative ways successfully held virtual meetings and members is managed by the U.S. Department of Veterans to keep members are volunteering at ” outdoor projects – with Affairs, and earned engaged. 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 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 Victoria.schmidt@cybertraininc.com member of Colorado Federation of 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
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 Spring 2021| 23
restoring the roses A visit to the Tulsa Municipal Rose Garden at Woodward Members of Tulsa Garden Club, which was bushes at the site in 1935. Club members continue 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 popular rose garden, “ ...the rose garden contained activities and fundraisers. 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, dogwood and redbud varieties. ” virus transferred from 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
The original rose garden ers of st , m em b to th e pa g a rd en . In a n od e ro se a rd en C lu b V is it th T ul sa G 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. 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 Rose Shultz program at Dick Conner President Correctional Center, a Tulsa Garden Club medium-security prison roses@jswtech.com 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 navigate to the many green following the Great California; and the Grand 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. 26 26 || The TheNational NationalGardener Gardener
ENHANCING THE COMMUNITY THROUGH community projects N estled in the heart of Michigan in Genesee County, the community of Grand Blanc is known for its welcoming each summer to water, 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. Spring 2021| 27
A footbridge leads to the native garden, a project made possible conservation. However, 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 in early May Spring tulips and daffodils. 28 | The National Gardener
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 swozndrix@gmail.com Heritage Museum. The museum houses historic artifacts and memorabilia Photos courtesy of Touch the Earth Garden Club Spring 2021| 29
THE Happy Guide GARDENER’S SEED DREAMS O ne of my favorite rites of spring is receiving my annual lettuces and balmy basil start to dance about in 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
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. in a stir-fry an heirloom melon grown in of veggies, the Punjab region of India. 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 swannson@daltontel.net requires a strong trellis and occasional trimming to keep it in place. Since I Photos by Charlotte A. Swanson 32 | The National Gardener
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 Spring 2021| 33
environmental, gardening and landscape design SCHOOLS C ourses for Environmental, Gardening and Landscape Design Schools are being held via Zoom video Students and consultants, especially those living out-of-state of the event, 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 Happy Gardener’s Guide” articles in The National Gardener, 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
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