The Ontario Horticulture Association (OHA) District 7 annual general meeting hosted by the Elora/Salem Horticultural Society was held on April 21 at the Alma Community Centre.
Claude Lacroix extended greetings from the host society and Wellington County councillor Mary Lloyd stated, “As stewards of this earth, we are thankful for you and all you do to green your community.”
OHA representative Celia Roberts complimented the Elora/Salem members for presenting such a bright and sunny atmosphere with their bright yellow t-shirts, yellow table cloths, and yellow daffodils in the centrepieces. The OHA is creating a new cheerful welcoming website for Garden Ontario. Now, there are 175 pollinator gardens. A new version of OJES is being designed as a tool for judges. The convention will be held in Kingston in July.
District 7 director Jane McDonald noted grants will be changing. She applauded Dorelene Anderson for creating the new District 7 logo and encouraged everyone to consider submitting entries for the convention. McDonald said she enjoyed her time as director and is pleased to have Kathy Bouma take over. She presented her with a District 7 Director pin.
Roberts installed the new executive outlining their duties and responsibilities: District 7 directorKathy Bouma, secretary Frances Bouma, treasurer Debbie Williams, directors Dorelene Anderson, Laurel Strachan, Vic Palmer, Mildred Francis and Connie Di Pisa.
Guest speaker Celia Roberts presented a closer look at how a flower show is judged. She feels if you grow any type of plant you should enter it in your flower show. Learn all aspects of flower arranging and gain experience by entering shows, she recommended. Understand the elements and principles of design, practise, win shows, write exams, and continually upgrade your knowledge. Integrity, tact, and common sense are traits of a good judge.”‘Be on time, be kind, be gone.”
Faye Craig offered grace before a luncheon of wraps and salads, and rhubarb and apple crisp.
Flower show judge Sharon Nivens chose Jean Yenssen’s “overflow” floral entry as Best in Show.
Guest speaker master gardener Kat Granger spoke on Heirlooms, Seeds and Us hoping more people take an active interest in preserving heritage seeds. She noted there are numerous romantic stories of pioneer travels and survival from early settlers and the stresses of building a horticultural future for their families. Heirloom fruits and vegetables adapted to local growing conditions maintaining their original flavours. Granger preserves and sells seeds, hosts workshops, and writes a Newsletter. She can be contacted at www.seedsofIMBOLC.ca
After door prizes and draws, each society shared upcoming events inviting all to attend.
The fall meeting will be hosted on Oct. 27 by the Clifford and District Horticultural Society.
