The April meeting of the Moorefield and District Horticultural Society featured James Graham, president of the Ontario Horticultural Society. Graham lives in the Waterloo area and is an avid gardener. He spoke on a number of his favourite topics.
The first one was propagation. He explained that it is not difficult to grow new shoots from existing plants. Many can be started just by putting a cutting in a pot of water or wet soil e.g. spider plants, wandering Jew and willow.
He noted that seeds from biennials can be saved and planted the next year. Tomato and bean seeds can also be saved safely.
Growing in containers is an easy way to garden. Graham noted that lettuce can be grown in window boxes and that onions, parsley and chives grow well in pots. Along with marigolds, he plants some parsley and green onions in a pot, making a lovely display.
The use of fertilizers was his last topic. Graham suggested a number of fertilizers which he regularly uses and explained why care should be taken with high nitrogen fertilizers. He uses compost and also recommended the use of mulch.
After many questions, president, Jo Houston thanked Graham for his informative presentation.
A lunch prepared by Rosemary Nibourg and Clara Bauman was served. The business meeting followed. Houston welcomed two new members to the society. Details were discussed involving the preparation of some of the flower beds which members look after.
The society’s annual plant and bake sale will take place on June 7 in front of the Optimist Hall in Moorefield. Baking and a variety of plants and perennials will be available at this sale.
The next meeting will be held on May 27 at the Moorefield Optimist Hall. Guest spaker will be Jill Welsh and the annual Spring Flower Show will take place.
Submitted by Linda Timmerman
