Members of the Guelph Township Horticultural Society held their Spring Flower Show and General Meeting on May 19 at the Marden library and community centre.
Prior to the meeting members of West End Women’s Institute dedicated a white oak tree planted behind the library to celebrate 100 years of institute activity in the township.
Members joined with the Guelph Township Horticultural Society to view Flower Show exhibits by adult and youth members.
Speaker, Scott Reid, of Althea Herbs spoke on Herbal actions – the uses and benefits of herbs. Reid has a four-acre plot at St. Ignatius where he plants various herbs used for teas and tinctures which sells at the Guelph Farmer’s Market.
The flower show was judged by Raija Sakarya, the literary competition by George Houghton. Plants left over from a recent plant sale were available for purchase. The remaining plants are now on the lawn of Phil and Jean Sweet for sale.
Following the draws for door prizes, members of the West End Women’s Institute served lunch and refreshments prepared by their members.
Horticultural members were reminded the June meeting will be June 23 at 6:30pm with ice-cream, strawberries and cake for the family. A leaf print activity will follow for all. There is also a mini show, featuring mainly iris and peony.
It is hoped also that the cedar gazebo erected last October will be dedicated on this date. This was a project of the Horticultural Society with the assistance of Guelph-Eramosa Parks and Recreation staff. A walkway to make the structure accessible is to be installed prior to the dedication. The gazebo compliments the Marion Brennan Enabling Garden.
Members will be adding new plant selections this spring to enhance not only the new structure but to create renewed interest in the enabling garden. Check out all this behind the Marden library, at 7368 Wellington Road 30.
Memberships to support the work of the society can still be obtained by contacting any of the directors. Information is on the society website at www.gardenontario.org (click on Guelph Township Horticultural Society).
submitted by Jean Gordon
