Gardener

Old Dominion
WINTER 2011-12 | www.virginiagardenclubs.org

DISTRICT EDITORS OLD DOMINION GARDENER DEADLINES Spring February 1 Summer May 1 Fall August 1 Winter November 1 Send articles, events and photos for publication to: Gayle Class, Copy Editor gardengirl619@gmail.com Blue Ridge Frankie Puckett flpdare2@gmail.com

Piedmont Kay Gray

Shenandoah Lois Northam northaml@aol.com Send Name/Address Changes to: Barbara Ohmsen basohmsen@cox.net

South Central Valerie Virkler vvirkler@vbengines.com

VFGC MISSION STATEMENT Virginia Federation of Garden Clubs, Inc., provides youth and adult education resources and opportunities for its members to promote the love of gardening, floral design, civic and environmental responsibility.

Southwest Anne Newton Dumper freestone-farm@smyth.net

Tidewater Joan Wedgewood flyinwedge@aol.com

Layout Editor Judy B. Binns judybinns@me.com

Quarterly Publication of Virginia Federation of Garden Clubs Inc

Winter 2011-12 Volume 42, No. 4 VFGC, INC Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden 1800 Lakeside Ave Richmond, VA 23228-4700 804-553-0445 www.virginiagardenclubs.org VFGC PRESIDENT Judy B. Binns Grow Now Planting Seeds for Tomorrow judybinns@me.com

Gardener

Old Dominion

CONTENTS FEATURES VFGC Member Meeting 6VFGC Convention Credentials THE PRESIDENTS PAGE VFGC NEWS a Plant Together Blue Star Markers LDCC Grants New Flower Show Judges Yearbook Corrections EDUCATION Edible Gardening Growing and Showing Conditioning Tips Save our Pollinators Conservation and the Bay Book Revient Sales DISTRICT AND CLUB NEWS Club & District News In Memoriam NGC AND SAR NEWS NGC Convention The National Gardener Natural Disasters USA Educational Grants NGC Presidents Project UPCOMING EVENTS

4 3

9 10 10 11 28

12 14 15 19 21 30 22 23

NATIONAL GARDEN CLUBS, INC 4401 Magnolia Ave St. Louis, MO 62110-3492 Member Services 800-550-6007 headquarters@gardenclub.org www.gardenclub.org NGC PRESIDENT Shirley Nicolai NGC: Proudly Serving Our Members and Communities shirleynicolai@verizon.net

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SOUTH ATLANTIC REGION DIRECTOR Mary H. Dixon Members are the Link to the Future mdixon2643@aol.com

SUBSCRIPTION RATES Members - Included in Dues Non-Members $3.50 Published quarterly Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter Non-Profit Organization postage paid at Richmond, VA USPS 407-420

BA RT L E T T. BECAUSE EVERY TREE IS A FAMILY TREE.

Today, more than ever, property value is as much about your landscape as it is your home. The trees and shrubs that grow along with you and your family are valuable assets that deserve care and protection. For over 100 years, Bartlett Tree Experts has led both the science and services that make your landscape thrive. No matter the size or scope of your needs, our arborists bring a rare mix of groundbreaking research, global resources and a local service approach to every task at hand. Trees add so much value to our lives. And Bartlett adds even more value to your trees.

For the life of your trees.

PRUNING . FERTILIZATION . PEST & DISEASE MANAGEMENT . REMOVAL PLEASE CALL 877 BARTLETT 877.227.8538 OR VISIT BARTLETT.COM

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Presidents PAGE

Winter will soon be over, and I am looking forward to some warm days to get back out into my garden. For me, there is nothing quite like digging to put a fresh perspective on a busy day. Spring is coming--with garden club and district sponsored meetings, schools, special programs, and flower shows to keep all of us busy. If you have not had an opportunity to participate in some of the schools that VFGC offers, now is a good time to start. You meet other garden club members across the state that share your same enthusiasm for gardening and floral design. Bring a friend to one of the schools or special programs. Joining a local garden club is one of the best ways to meet new friends who share a common interest. I hope to see each of you at the VFGC Member Meeting in Charlottesville on April 30. This meeting is for YOU--the garden club member. Every club president should plan to attend--it is a chance for club presidents to exchange ideas and hear about what other clubs and districts are doing across the state. The program features Melinda Myers, a nationally known garden expert, speaking on container gardening with some fresh ideas, design and growing tips, as well as new garden products. VFGC will also recognize garden clubs for their work throughout the year. A new program focusing on Community Gardens is Plant Together. This new program encourages garden clubs, civic groups, youth groups, etc. to schedule a work day during National Garden Week (first full week in June) to plant or spruce up gardens in their community. Read the article in this issue on how your club can participate. VFGC wants to spread the word that garden clubs benefit their communities with beautification projects. The more clubs that are involved, the better the possiblity of some positive publicity for the work of VFGC. Thank you for supporting the Blue Gloves for Blue Stars program! Three of the markers have already been refurbished and look like new. Your donations are making the Blue Stars in Virginia shine brightly again! I look forward to seeing you as I travel across the state for schools, meetings and special events. My best wishes to each of you as VFGC continues to Grow Now . . . Planting Seeds for Tomorrow.

Judy

Winter 2011-12

Old Dominion Gardener

VFGC MEMBER MEETING

VFGC MEMBER MEETING MONDAY, APRIL 30, 2012

Doubletree by Hilton 990 Hilton Heights Road Charlottesville, VA This meeting is for YOU--the Virginia garden club member.
Make plans to come to the first VFGC Member Meeting--a day of education designed specifically for the garden club member. This meeting will feature: Program plus question/answer period and book signing with nationally known garden expert, Melinda Myers, author of over 20 gardening books including Cant Miss Small Space Gardening Dig In Workshops highlighting Youth and VFGC Projects Shortened Business Session Awards Presentation with NEW Club Special Achievement Awards Recognition of Club Presidents Shoppers Marketplace with everything that you need or want as a designer or gardening enthusiast Educational exhibits with information on current VFGC Projects

For those members arriving on Sunday evening, join us for dinner and a design demonstration, Basic Floral Design, Step by Step, a preview of the Basic Floral Design Classes to be offered by VFGC. GROW NOW with VFGC, meet garden club members from across the state and take home information that you can use!

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VFGC MEMBER MEETING

FEATURED SPEAKER MELINDA MYERS

Nationally known gardening expert, TV/radio host, author and columnist Melinda Myers has more than 30 years of horticulture experience and has written over 20 gardening books, including Cant Miss Small Space Gardening. She hosts the nationally syndicated Melindas Garden Moment segments which air on 89 TV and radio stations throughout the U.S. and Canada. She is a columnist and contributing editor for Birds & Blooms magazine and writes a twice monthly Gardeners Questions newspaper column. Melinda hosted The Plant Doctor radio program for over 20 years as well as Great Lakes Gardener on PBS. She has written articles for Better Homes and Gardens and Fine Gardening and was a columnist and contributing editor for Backyard Living magazine. Some of her highlighted speaking engagements includes The Philadelphia Flower Show, The EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival, Macys Flower Show, The Northwest Flower Show, The New Jersey Flower Show, the Chicago Flower Show, and the Cincinnati Flower Show. Melinda has a masters degree in horticulture, is a certified arborist and was a horticulture instructor with tenure. Her web site is www.melindamyers.com.

PROGRAM YEAR ROUND GARDEN-TAINMENT

Put your containers to work for you year round. Pack them full of flowers and edibles in summer for you and your guests to enjoy. Just imagine garnishing your drinks and dishes with fresh from the container garden herbs. Follow with a fall harvest and cool tolerant flowers, winter greenery and of course that long awaited burst of spring color. Melinda will explore ways to add beauty to your entryway, balcony or deck throughout the year and share tips on containers and plants that work to provide year round interest even in winter.

Winter 2011-12

Old Dominion Gardener

VFGC MEMBER MEETING

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
Sunday, april 29, 2012
3 pm 3 pm 3 - 6 pm 5 pm 5:30 pm 7 pm Registration until 6:30 pm Finance Committee Meeting Vendor and VFGC Exhibit Set-up Executive Committee Meeting Board of Directors Meeting Dinner & Design Demonstration Basic Floral Design, Step by Step Preview of Basic Floral Design Class offered by VFGC

Monday, april 30, 2012 - VFGC MeMber MeetinG

8:30 am 8:30 am 9-9:45 pm 10 am Registration opens Vendors and Exhibits Open Dig In Workshops Highlighting Youth Projects, Community Gardens Opening of Business Meeting Awards Presentation Recognition of Club Presidents Luncheon Featured Speaker - Melinda Myers Year-round Garden-tainment Adjournment

12 noon 1:15 pm 3 pm

HOTEL INFORMATION

DOUBLETREE BY HILTON
434-973-2121

990 Hilton Heights Road, Charlottesville, VA 22901

VFGC Special Room Rate: $109 (plus tax) Deadline: April 1, 2012 To make a reservation: Go to the VFGC website for a direct link to a customized web page for this event Call Doubletree Reservations at 1-800-494-9467 and give name of event as VFGC 2012 Annual Meeting DIRECTIONS Hotel is located on Route 29, just north of Charlottesville. From I-64: Take exit 118-B to Route 29 North Bypass. You will stay on the bypass approximately 4.5 miles until you see a sign for Washington, DC and 29 North. This exit will be on your right hand side. Take it and you will be directely on Route 29 North. Continue 3.5 miles, the Doubletree Hotel is located on the left (Hilton Heights Road) beside Sams Club and Wal-Mart.

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VFGC MEMBER MEETING

Return form by April 15, 2012 Registration form may be downloaded from www.virginiagardenclubs.org MAIL TO: Phillipa Smith, Registrar, 12601 Winfree St, Chester, VA 23831 cguygo@verizon.net 804.748.6216 CHECK PAYABLE TO: VFGC Inc Registration Form must be completed by everyone attending

VFGC MEMBER MEETING REGISTRATION FORM

Last Name _______________________ First_______________ Middle Initial _____ Address ____________________________________________________________ City ____________________________________State_______Zip _____________ Phone ______________________Email address ____________________________ District _____________________ Club ___________________________________ Check ALL that apply: ( ) NGC Officer/Chairman ( ) SAR Officer/Chairman ( ) Former VFGC President ( ) VFGC Officer ( ) VFGC Chairman

( ( ( (

) ) ) )

District President District Director Club President Club Member

( ( ( (

) ) ) )

NGC Life Member SAR Life Member VFGC Life Member Visitor/Guest

SUNDAY, APRIL 29 - For those arriving early Dinner and Program

$30

____________

MONDAY, APRIL 30 VFGC One-Day Member Meeting $30 ($5 Registration Fee and $25 for Luncheon/Program) TOTAL

____________

____________

Special dietary restrictions for medical reasons ONLY ________________________ CREDENTIALS FORM To be completed by all delegates, alternates, and VFGC Board Members Number of delegates is determined by club size. See VFGC Bylaws. Name ______________________________________________________________ District _____________________ Club ___________________________________ ( ( ) VFGC Officer/Board of Directors ) Club President ( ( ) Club Delegate ) Alternate

Winter 2011-12

Old Dominion Gardener

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Plant TOGETHER

PLANT TOGETHER COMMUNITY GARDEN PROJECT WE NEED YOU!

Submitted by Elizabeth Lester, VFGC Community Gardens Chairman and Susan Patrick, VFGC National Garden Week Chairman National Garden Week is quickly approaching, and VFGC is counting on you and your club to get involved with your community. HOW? Lets Plant Together! VFGC is encouraging all gardens clubs to participate by scheduling a work day to plant, weed or spruce up their community as well as reach out to other clubs and organizations to celebrate National Garden Week. Clubs are asked to do what they do best--PLANT! Partner with other civic organizations to plant a container, start a new gardening project with plants or vegetables, or revitalize an existing project through maintenance. Who can help? Reach out to groups like your local Rotary, Scouts, Junior League, DAR, Lions Club and Master Gardeners. Also, why not reach out and plant with your local daycare groups, senior citizen groups, and church groups. If you dont have a green thumb, you can still participate during this important celebration. Do your part through contacting community organizations, gathering gardening supplies, selecting a project site, or contacting your local media. Let your community know what your club is planning for this special week. If your clubs gardening skills are limited, it can still participate! Contact a local youth organization, such as the Boys and Girls Club, or a local church youth group. Your members can share their planting skills through conducting a workshop with these young people. Members can assist them with planting individual containers with a flower or vegetable, such as tomato plant. At the conclusion of the workshop, the container can then be shared with family members or a local nursing home. VFGC wants to hear from you! Register your Plant Together work day on the VFGC website at www.virginiagardenclubs.org. Each garden club who registers their project will receive recognition through VFGC and a publicity packet to help spread the word that garden clubs benefit the community with beautification projects. Lets get everyone involved during National Garden Week, June 3-9, 2012! Together, VFGC can spread the word that garden clubs and their members make a difference in their communities all across Virginia.

Winter 2011-12

Old Dominion Gardener

VFGC NEWS

BLUE GLOVES FOR BLUE STARS

Submitted by Gloria Crump, VFGC Blue Star Memorial Chairman

The Virginia Department of Transportation has been working with VFGC and three of the oldest Blue Star Memorial Markers have been refurbished. Support Blue Glove for Blue Stars at your Spring District meeting. If all goes as planned three more markers will be sent for refurbishing and this project will be complete by spring. Thank you to our members who helped to make this possible by donating $10.00 and receiving a pair of blue gloves to help refurbish the Blue Star markers.

BLUE STAR MEMORIAL MARKER PRICE INCREASE

Submitted by Mary Warshauer, NGC Blue Star Memorial Chairman EFFECTIVE MAY 1, 2012 Prices for Blue Star Memorial markers will increase effective May 1, 2012 as follows: Blue Star Memorial and Highway Markers (includes post) $1,350 Blue Star Memorial Byway Markers $450 New Post Only - $325 Large Blue Star Memorial/Highway Marker without Post - $1120 Refurbishing $800 per marker Order forms may be downloaded at www.gardenclub.org

LANDSCAPE DESIGN CONSULTANTS COUNCIL GRANTS FOR PROJECTS

Remember to apply for VFGC Landscape Design Consultants Council grants for VFGC member garden club sponsored projects. Grants of $150.00 each will be given to the 3 best entries. Details are available on the VFGC website. Deadline for applications is April 16, 2012.

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VFGC NEWS

NEW FLOWER SHOW JUDGES

Submitted by Cindy Rustin, VFGC Flower Show Schools Chairman

VFGC has four new Flower Show Judges! Congratulations to the following who passed the Flower Show School Handbook Exam in October 2011: Glenda Knowles Kim Blatz Diane Blackwell Pat Shrader

Remember when you contact Flower Show Judges for your standard flower shows to be sure to include our newest judges and student judges. The Flower Show School, Course IV, is scheduled for August 26-29, 2012 in Richmond at the Holiday Inn Koger Center. Instructors will be Julia Clevett for Design and Dot Yard for Horticulture.

The Gardeners Workshop

Online Garden Shop
Flower Arranging and Gardening Supplies

Visit our Group Program page to see what others are saying about Lisas programs: . . . the best program our club has ever had.

Lisa Ziegler Cut-Flower Farmer and Speaker

Ask About Our Fundraiser Club Programs TGW is Available as a Retail Vendor at your Event

757-877-7159 Toll Free 1-888-977-7159 www.shoptgw.com

Winter 2011-12

Newport News, Va. Lisa@shoptgw.com

Request Catalogs for your Club!
Old Dominion Gardener 11

Edible GARDENING

LETS START THOSE GARDENS

Submitted by Renee Johnson Southwest District Edible Gardening Chairman Spring will be here shortly and all gardeners will be thinking about planting. Be it vegetables, perennials, or annuals, they all start from seeds. So why not start your own seedlings this year? The cost of everything is going up, and therefore the most economical way to plant a garden is to start your own plants. Here are some pointers for successful seed starting: Sowing seeds indoors: Timing is critical when you start seeds indoors. It is important that you know your average last spring frost date, how quickly your seed will germinate and grow, and if the plant prefers cool or warm growing conditions. VFGC members garden in several different time zones and you must be aware of your local temperatures. Seedlings that are ready for transplanting into the garden at the proper time is the goal, and that will vary greatly across our state. Your average last frost date can be determined from entering your zip code on this site davesgarden.com/guides/freeze-frost-dates or by calling your local extension agent. This information is needed because seed packets suggest a planting time based on your average last frost date. What soil is needed to start seeds: Because garden soil can harbor diseases you should always use soil-less mixes that are lightweight and designed for seed starting. Seeds require a soil-less mix that drains freely, is fungi free, and yet can retain the right amount of moisture to get your seedlings off to a great start. Many commercial mixes are available today as well as complete seed starting set-ups that include the soil-less mix, a styrofoam container with individual cells, and covers to retain moisture which is critical during germination. How to plant seeds: Most seed packets provide specific depths for planting and be sure that you dont plant seeds too deep. Seeds are self-contained storage units and are designed to provide the proper amount of nourishment, but only if planted correctly. Planting too deep can mean the seedling will run out of food before it reaches the light. If your packet says light is required to germinate, place these seeds on the surface of the soil-less mix. How to watering and fertilize: For most seeds bottom watering works best, and seems to help prevent disease problems (just ask your African Violet). Not to mention that it is tricky to water very small seeds without washing them away, except by watering from the bottom. Self-watering seed starting systems are a wonderful choice and work by using a wicking fabric to supply water from the bottom. This provides a steady water suppy, and if set up with a reservoir system, it means less watering for the gardener.

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Edible GARDENING

After sprouting, the first set of leaves that you will see are called cotyledons. Because all the food that is needed to sustain these first leaves is contained right inside the seed, you do not need to fertilize yet. When the second set of leaves appears, you can begin feeding your seedlings. Young seedlings cant tolerate full-strength fertilizer, so be gentle and provide only a half-strength dose until they are three or four weeks old. Greenhouse covers on seed starters: If you use a seed starting kit that has a cover, be sure to remove the cover when you see the seed has sprouted. Although the cover is designed to retain moisture, air circulation around your seedlings is critical to minimize disease problems. Using grow lights: Lights should sit just a few inches from the tops of the seedlings. This will encourage strong stocky growth. I have also read that applying a slight breeze from a fan encourages strong stems as well as improving circulation. Lights should be on for about 15 hours a day. Transplanting seedlings: Some plants grow quickly and may need to be transplanted into bigger pots before time to plant them into the garden. To test this, when seedlings are about 4 tall, gently remove one of the seedlings and if the roots are beginning to fill the space, it is time to transplant into a larger pot. You may want to transplant some plants, such as tomatoes, to create a bigger plant to go into the garden which will hopefully mean earlier tomatoes. Hardening off: This has always been the hardest part for me because by the time my plants have attained their outdoor size I am ready to kick them out of the house and get them in the garden. But after several years of watching the sun scorch the tender green leaves (which slows down the growing process) I have learned that for me, hardening off is the most important part of this entire process. Hardening off means acclimating plants to outdoor conditions. Seedlings grown indoors have been pampered and outdoor conditions are more challenging. At least one and a half weeks before you plan to set the seedlings into the garden, start hardening them off. Place them in a sheltered spot outdoors (filtered sun or partly sunny and out of the wind) for a few hours but bringing them in at night. Gradually, over this time expose them to more and more sunshine and wind. After about 10 days, you are ready to put your new plants in the garden. References 1. www.gardeners.com is Gardeners Supply Company garden supplies, numerous articles and How-To guides. 2. organicgardening.com is the website for Organic Gardening magazine, the quintessential organic gardeners guide.

Winter 2011-12

Old Dominion Gardener

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Flower SHOWS

GROWING AND SHOWING

Has your club held a flower show lately? Is your club planning a flower show?
A flower show can be a fun and exciting project for any size garden club. It showcases the talents of your members--whether they are growers or designers. Plus, when you open the show to the public, you may just inspire someone to join your garden club to learn the latest in gardening and floral design. The Old Dominion Gardener as well as the VFGC website wants to showcase the flower shows that clubs sponsor across the state of Virginia. Send photos and descriptions of your flower shows that feature: Award winning designs and horticulture Special Exhibits both Educational and Artistic Crafts Innovative staging Theme staging and more . . .

Send articles on How to build innovative staging, conditioning and transporting horticulture specimens, etc. Plus send dates of when your flower show is held so that other club members can come and see your show. Send to Gayle Class, Copy Editor, gardengirl619@gmail.com.

TIPS ON SUBMITTING PHOTOS

Send name of exhibitor, name or title of exhibit, garden club and any awards won Digital submission by e-mail Send the ORIGINAL SIZE photo--these will be large files and you may need to send one at a time E-mail to judybinns@me.com Printed photo Send by regular US Mail to 14400 Newgate Rd, Midlothian, VA 23113 to be scanned. Do NOT write on the back of the photo

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Flower SHOWS

Small and miniature designs staged on a giant wedding cake at the Salisbury Garden Club Flower Show, A Salisbury Wedding.

Class of troughs in the Horticulture Division staged on garden benches at Middleburg GC standard flower show.

Winter 2011-12

Old Dominion Gardener

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Floral DESIGN

TROPICAL FLOWERS CONDITIONING AND DESIGN TIPS

Anthuriums
Submerge entire bloom end face-down for 15-20 minutes. Use room temperature water Keep at temperatures above 60 degrees

Ginger Family
Submerge entire bloom Use room temperature water Arrange directly in water for best results Keep at temperatures above 45 degrees

Protea Family
Trim at least 1 inch from the bottom of stem Place into a bucket of fresh, lukewarm water immediately For best results, arrange directly in water Keep at temperatures above 55 degrees Proteas are thirsty--maintain water level in design

General Tips for ALL Tropical Flowers

Mist often with fresh, room temperature water Replace the water in your design daily Keep flowers away from heat sources and drafts Creative design by Julia Clevett at Do not refrigerate Flower Show Judges Symposium in Do not place design in direct sunlight Williamsburg

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NGC NEWS

NGC CONVENTION EXPLORE THE WONDERS

Come to Buffalo, New York for the 83rd Annual Convention on May 18-19, 2012. Any garden club member may attend. The convention features: Designer Ricardo Costa from Brazil Mike Shadrack with Behind the Scenes at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show Tours of Buffalo and Niagra Seminars National Garden Clubs is also having a NATIONAL flower show, titled An Empire of Wonders, in conjunction with the 2012 Convention. The show schedule may be downloaded from the NGC website and includes 58 classes of horticulture, 29 classes of design, plus educational exhibits and artistic crafts. Deadline for registration is April 16, 2012. Complete information and registration forms may be found in The National Gardener or downloaded from the NGC website www.gardenclub.org.

THE NATIONAL GARDENER

THE NATIONAL GARDENER IS A CONTINUOUS CIRCLE that connects National Garden Clubs, Inc. to the Region, to the State Garden Club, to the District, to the Member Garden Club and, finally, to the individual Garden Club member. THE NATIONAL GARDENER IS THE VOICE of NGC, communicating with all garden club members. THE NATIONAL GARDENER IS A STOREHOUSE of ideas for horticulture, floral and landscape design, flower shows, conservation, and environmental projects. THE NATIONAL GARDENER IS A MANUAL that presents the latest concerning NGC Awards, and Basic Flower Arranging, as well as information on our NGC Schools--Flower Show Schools, Horticulture Study, Environmental Study, Gardening Study, and Landscape Design. The National Gardener is published quarterly by: National Garden Clubs, Inc. 4401 Magnolia Ave. St. Louis, MO 63110-3492 Subscribe today! Subscription cost is $6.50 per year. To subscribe, call 800550-6007 or download a subscription form at www.gardenclub.org.

Winter 2011-12

Old Dominion Gardener

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NGC NEWS

NATURAL DISASTERS USA

A garden club or clubs may apply for funds to help replant, restore and beautify a public area that has been damaged or destroyed by a natural disaster, such as hurricanes, tornadoes, ice storms, floods, fires, etc. The restoration project is to be sponsored by State Garden Club or Member Club/s. A member club may receive up to $5000 per disaster project and may receive no more that $5000 per disaster within the NGC Fiscial Year. Information needed to apply: Application form Nature and severity of disaster Location of area to be restored Proposed restoration plan by garden club/s Estimated itemized costs of your project Other funds received toward restoration project All applications are reviewed by the Natural Disaster, USA Chairman and Committee. To apply, download the application form from the NGC website www.gardenclub.org. For more information or questions concerning the application process, contact Adrienne Langan, Natural Disasters USA Chairman, at langana@aol.com.

OPERATION WILDFLOWER/NATIVE PLANT EDUCATIONAL SYMPOSIUM OR WORKSHOP GRANTS

A grant of up to $500 is available to be used towards direct expenses for an educational program on this subject. Districts, councils and individual garden clubs may co-sponsor a symposium with state agencies, arboreta, native plant societies, or similar organizations. Gardeners are eager for information on native plants; state highway or transportation departments need publicity and support for their planting programs. More information and application form can be found on the NGC website. Subjects to be covered: One or more topics on native flora: endangered species, plants for butterflies, plants for special habitats, identification using keys, invasive species management, etc. Public planting: state highways, rest areas, preservation of community natural areas. Propagation of wildflowers. Designing native plant gardens or developing nature trails Operation Wildflower Awards information

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NGC NEWS

SAVE OUR POLLINATORS

Michelle Mensinger NGC Endangered Species Chairman The US has lost over 50% of our managed honeybee colonies over the last 10 years due to chemical misuse, introduced and invasive plant and animal species, diseases and parasites. We, as an environmentally concerned organization, being aware of this disturbing problem, hope to promote ways that we, as NGC members, can help protect our threatened pollinators. WHAT CAN WE DO to promote and protect pollinators? WATCH FOR POLLINATORS: Get connected with nature. Take a walk, experience the landscape and look for pollinators, midday in sunny, planted areas. Install houses for bats and native bees, encouraging them to thrive. CREATE a pollinator-friendly garden habitat DESIGN your garden so that there is a continuous succession of plants flowering from spring through fall. Check for the species and cultivars best suited to your area and gradually replace lawns with flower beds. PLANT NATIVE SPECIES that will thrive in your region, using plants that provide nectar for insects and hummingbirds and also food for larvae, such as milkweed for monarchs. SUPPLY water for all wildlife. REDUCE YOUR IMPACT: Reduce or eliminate your pesticide use, increase green spaces and minimize urbanization. Pollution and climate change affect pollinators, just as they affect people. SPREAD THE WORD: Pollinators have enabled our diverse variety of plants to prosper and grow, creating an abundance of food for our hungry world, for thousands of years. Now, THEY need OUR help. Please help them by creating a pollinator- friendly environment, through conservation and education, ultimately establishing a global awareness of our fragile planet. Teach our children the importance of pollinators with fun facts, such as a tiny fly (a midge) no bigger than a pinhead is responsible for the worlds supply of chocolate!

Winter 2011-12

Old Dominion Gardener

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NGC Presidents PROJECT

MONETARY AWARDS FOR NGC PRESIDENTS PROJECT 2011-2013 PLANTINGS FOR PUBLIC AND SPECIAL PLACES

Submitted by Betsy Steele, NGC Coordinator, Plantings for Public and Special Places

Representing three areas of interest; Gardens with Edibles, Container Gardens, Trees and Shrubs, this project recognizes ALL garden club service to communities when members provide Plantings for Public and Special Places. These plantings can beautify, have environmental value or provide sustenance. Possibilities exist for every garden club, regardless of its size, resources, and energy levels. Clubs, districts and regions will be awarded Certificates of Appreciation and Participation by the NGC President and can also apply for monetary awards. Details regarding categories and monetary awards will be printed on the NGC website. To receive this recognition, participants are asked to submit an online form, available on the NGC website, along with a before and after digital photo. Garden clubs may submit online forms for any or all of the three (3) areas of interest listed below. Application forms are sent to directly to the NGC Chairman listed below. Submission deadlines are April 1, 2012 and April 1, 2013. Gardens with Edibles - NGC Chairman: Patricia Rupiper, arupiper@bright.net 1st Place $300 2nd Place $150 3rd Place $100 Container Gardens 1st Place 2nd Place 3rd Place - NGC Chairman: Susan Robinson, rerob@mac.com $300 $150 $100

Trees and Shrubs - NGC Chairman: Lissa Williamson, erw510@aol.com 1st Place $300 2nd Place $150 3rd Place $100 Participate in the NGC Presidents Project - Plantings for Public and Special Places. Your club can WIN in each category. Visit the NGC website www.gardenclub.org for more details. If you have questions, contact your individual State President or anyone listed in this article for more details. Our State could be recognized for outstanding participation. It all starts with you and your garden club!

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Conservation INFORMATION

WHAT CAN WE DO TO REDUCE POLLUTION IN THE CHESAPEAKE BAY?

Lynn Pappas, Piedmont District Conservation Chairman Reprinted from Footprints, Winter 2011-12 Did you know that more than 16 million people live on land that drains into the Chesapeake Bay, and what we do on our property has a big impact on the Bay? Its not just industrial and agribusinesses that pollute the Bay--new homeowners contribute substantially to Bay pollution runoff. Grassy turf--not farm runoff--is the most dominant crop in the Bay Watershed. Reducing the amount of fertilizer you apply to your lawn will help reduce nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) levels in the Bay. Try to buy low phosphorus fertilizers. Also, consider replacing part of your lawn with native plants. Natives require less fertilizer, water, and pesticides, thus adding fewer chemicals to the watershed. To find a list of these natives, google Virginia Native Plants List. Another suggestion would be to plant a rain garden. A rain garden is a shallow depression planted with deep-rooted native plants and grasses located next to a runoff source, such as a downspout or driveway. This will keep clean water out of the sewer system and deter pollutants from running off of our yards. The Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay has partnered with the District of Columbias District Department of the Environment to help create RiverSmart Homes. RiverSmart Homes provides grants to DC residents to help them install shade trees, rain barrels, rain gardens, BayScaping, and removal of impervious driveway surfaces.

Rain Gardens
Other sources of information on Rain Gardens from Kay Fisher, NGC Rain Gardens Chairman: Your local Cooperative Extension Service Rain Garden Network www.raingardennetwork.com Wikipedia - artilcle on Rain Gardens Books such as Rain Gardens--Managing Water Sustainably in the Garden and Designed Landscape by Nigel Dunnett & Andy Clayden; The Rain Garden Planner by Terry Wallace; and Rain Gardening in the South by Helen Kraus & Anne Spafford

Winter 2011-12

Old Dominion Gardener

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Club and District NEWS

PIEDMONT DISTRICT
Pamunkey River GC Celebrates 50th Anniversary
Submitted by Marilyn Baker-OConnor The Pamunkey River GC celebrated its 50th anniversary on October 15, 2011 at Shady Grove Methodist Church in Mechanicsville. Current and past members and guests gathered to share memories and enjoy a reception prepared by First Vice President, Jean Ray, and her daughter Charlotte Gooch. Scrapbooks and memorabilia displayed 50 years of community involvement, education and fellowship. Ann Benjamin, VFGC Honorary President and member of Pamunkey River GC, Nancy Hargroves, NGC Third Vice President, and Linda Simon, Piedmont District President, were among the guests recognized by President Susan Blankinship. Members created the floral arrangements for the tables including Nancy Lee Martin who designed the centerpiece and Jean Ray who created a special design in memory of former member, Anne Blake. Virginia Wright and Ann Benjamin spoke about the clubs long history. A program by Jane VanDenburgh featured several floral designs including a special ladybug and a rescued and repaired container which told the Pamunkey River GC story. The club is celebrating its 50th year by creating a childrens garden within the courtyard area of Pole Green Elementary School. Trees, bulbs, roses and pansies have been planted. A friendly alligator, the schools mascot, was placed in a flowerbed. Apple trees, fig trees, berry bushes and perennials will be planted in the spring.

Pamunkey River GC Members at 50th Anniversary Celebration Top Row: Delores Jaggi, Thelma Bailey, Susan Blankinship, Nancy Lee Martin, Debbie Hollowell, Marilyn Baker-OConnor. Bottom Row: Nita Dunkum, Ann Benjamin, Jean Ray, Virginia Wright, Charlotte Torseth. Floral design is by Jane VanDenburgh.

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Club and District NEWS

SOUTH CENTRAL DISTRICT

Spring Plant Sale
Submitted by Mary Wilbin Clay Spring GC will hold its annual plant sale on May 12, 2012 from 9 am to 3 pm in front of Peebles Department store in Ashland.

Twin Rivers GC
Submitted by Val Virkler The Twin Rivers GC will be celebrating the annual May honors luncheon at the home of Mary Fran Lewis in Clarksville. Mary Fran has opened her home to the garden club for many years, exemplifying the caring and supportive qualities that describe this accomplished woman. Raised in Berkeley, California in the Roaring 20s, she moved to Hawaii, where she met and married her aviator husband, Meriwether. After World War II, they and their young children moved to his family home, Merifield, in Clarksville, Virginia. Mary Fran has a lifetime of community service and leadership and has achieved renown as an accomplished artist. Her artistic abilities and her love of flowers go hand in hand, resulting in tranquil, harmonious gardens. The members always anticipate an enjoyable garden luncheon experience at her home and we thank her for her generosity.

Holiday Gala
Submitted by Mona Harrison Rosecrest GC of Colonial Heights will present a Holiday Gala, on October 10, 2012 at the Country Club of Petersburg. This popular event, which sold out last year before fall, will feature Al Brockwell, from Richmond, as guest speaker. Many door prizes and silent auction items will be available. A delicious luncheon, prepared by the club chef ,will be served Doors will open at nine oclock. Reservations/tickets for $30 will be available on June 1,2012. For more information, contact Mona Harrison, chairperson, at 804-564-1884 or Barbara Smith, ticket chairperson, at 804-526-2609.

In Memoriam
BLUE RIDGE DISTRICT Mildred Beecher VFGC President 1983-1985 Town & Country GC - Blacksburg PIEDMONT DISTRICT Linda Simon Hanover Towne GC Piedmont District President SOUTHWEST DISTRICT Pauline Thomas Marion GC

TIDEWATER DISTRICT Eleanor Dudley Berkeley GC Emily Evanow Green Spring GC Dorothy Samuelson Dogwood GC Jo Smith Toano GC

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Club and District NEWS

SHENANDOAH DISTRICT
Natural Bridge GC Celebrates 80th Anniversary
Submitted by Lucy Gritzmacher and Lois Northam The Natural Bridge GC celebrated its 80th Anniversary at a luncheon at the Southern Inn II in Lexington, VA on January 11, 2012. Attendees included Judy Binns, VFGC President, Mary Burke, Shenandoah District President, Lucy Gritzmacher, Natural Bridge GC President, associate, honorary, and active club members. After lunch, the club members reminisced and shared birthday cupcakes with candles. Club member, Marta Kastner, wrote and published Natural Bridge Garden Club, History 1932-2012 using 80 years of minutes, treasurer reports, and interviews with club members.

First Row: Lucille McCown, Jeanne Day, Adelaide Simpson, Betty Haskins, Virginia Leach, Bobbie Woolfenden Second Row: Michelle Treger, Carolyn Kuper, Sarah Lanford, Boots Jones, Mary Burke (President, Shenandoah District of VFGC), Lucy Gritzmacher (President, Natural Bridge Garden Club) Standing: Doris Fredricksen, Martha Lou Derrick, Saundra Martis, Debbie Levonick, Linda Baron, Maureen Becker, Marta Kastner, Doris Greywall, Ellin Mattie, Suzy Jones, Ann Nay, Anne Weede, Judith Wycoff, Irene Condie. Photo by Judy Binns, VFGC President

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Club and District NEWS

PHOTOS FROM CHRISTMAS SPIRIT, A STANDARD FLOWER SHOW PRESENTED BY MIDDLEBURG GC

Trough by Lisa Catlett won Growers Choice Award and Award of Horticultural Excellence.

Design Division included a functional tray table, service for one person, with the title, Cheeks Like Roses - Breakfast for Santa. This flower show was held the first weekend in December in conjunction with a bazaar of holiday gourmet gifts, greens and wreaths. Additional photos on VFGC website.

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Club and District NEWS

SOUTHWEST DISTRICT
Submitted by Anne Dumper Clubs are busy and things are moving along in the Southwest District. The Seasons IV GC of Tazewell has assisted the Methodist Church with a memorial Garden Project. The club planted a Pink Kwanza Cherry Tree in celebration of Plant It Pink. The club members also helped the Methodist Youth plant some 100 tulip bulbs to welcome spring. The Abingdon GC is working with the town of Abingdon to revitalize the towns bird sanctuary. Special bird houses have been purchased and the town will put them in appropriate locations. New bird sanctuary signs are being constructed, and will be placed at all the entrances to Abingdon. The Lee County GC decorates a Christmas tree at the County Courthouse in Jonesville each year. This year the tree was especially unique as the members grew gourds, dried them and decorated them to adorn the tree in an environmentally, green and friendly manner. One of their very talented members instructed them in the decorating of gourds. Christmas is an important and busy time in Galax for the Galax GC. Each year the club decorates a Christmas tree for the School of Arts Lobby. Opened several years ago, the Chestnut Creek School of Arts is located in an historic old bank building that was remodeled by the community for the school. Studios were built for painters, sculptors, and musicians. The town of Galax has become a real artists colony with many talented musicians and sculptors moving in to be part of the new school. The diversity of new individuals has become a joy to the community. A second tree is decorated in the library for the children. This tree uses only special decorations that would entice children to visit the library and to enjoy a book to read. Several years ago an old unsightly building was torn down and a gaping hole was left in the downtown area. The garden club stepped in and asked to have a green space developed. With a lot of hard work, dedication and love the garden club brought forth a lovely green space with a gazebo and small gardens. Many community programs are held in this green space, and often childrens programs are featured. Christmas time is not forgotten in the decorating the community for the holiday. The green space is decorated with a theme appropriate for the holiday.

Galax GC Members Kathy James, Carol Morris, Nancy Luague, Janet Nucholls, Joy Murray and Margaret Ballard.

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Club and District NEWS

TIDEWATER DISTRICT
Tidewater District sponsored a Standard Flower Show as part of the Virginia Flower & Garden Expo. Darlene (Sam) Halvorsen was this years Flower Show chairman; and the show title was Tomorrows Designs Today. The top winners in the Horticulture Division were Ann Brown (Lake Smith Terrace GC), Arboreal Award in Conifers and Award of Horticulture Excellence for rare Vietnamese evergreen; Frances Thrash (Little Neck GC), Arboreal Award in Broadleaf Evergreens for Aucuba; Lisabetty Lutton (Cedar Point GC), Growers Choice in Container Grown Flowering Plants for cyclamen; and Bill Smoot (Green Pine GC), Growers Choice Award in Container Grown Foliage Plants for Hedera helix (ivy). In the Design Division, Betty Ann Galway (Thoroughgood GC) received the Designers Choice Award; Frances Thrash received the Table Artisrty Award and Award of Design Excellence; and Susan Atkins (Thoroughgood GC) received the Petite Award.

Betty Ann Galway, Thoroughgood GC, was awarded the Designers Choice Award.

Petite designs staged in innovative box with lighted staging. See VFGC website for more Tidewater District FS photos. Susan Atkins, Thoroughgood GC, received the Petite Award.

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Contact INFORMATION

Virginia Federation of Garden Club Officers

President Judy B. Binns judybinns@me.com

1st Vice President Liaison to Club Presidents Marilyn J. Mason marilynmason@comcast.net

VFGC YEARBOOK CORRECTIONS

Send ALL Directory additions/changes to: Betsy Klein, b.klein@jetbroadband.com p 7 Calendar of Events Add : Aug 26-29 Sept 9-11

2nd Vice President Finance Chairman 501(c)(3) Group Exemption Janice M. Clem tchokie@aol.com

Flower Show School IV Richmond FS Judges Symposium Staunton

3rd Vice President Membership Chairman Mary E. Owen rxowen@aol.com

Change: Sept 12 VFGC Board of Directors Staunton

Recording Secretary Mary Sue Floyd MFloyd3570@aol.com

P 133 HUNT, Geneva Email genevahunt@cox.net P 137 SMITH, Phillipa Email cguygo@verizon.net P 138 STEELE, Phyllis Email pbsteele408@gmail.com

Treasurer Claudia H. Cosby 501(c)(3) Group Exemption chcosby@verizon.net

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Upcoming EVENTS

UPCOMING VFGC EVENTS

Mar 19 Mar 20-23 Mar 25-27 Mar 28 Mar 29-30 Apr 5 Apr 12 Apr 14 Apr 17 Apr 19 Apr 26 Apr 29 Apr 30 May 17-19 May 18-19 June 3-9 Aug 26-29 Sept 9-11 Sept 12 Piedmont District Meeting Flower Show School III South Atlantic Convention Richmond Staunton White Sulphur Springs, WV Gloucester Gloucester Portsmouth Front Royal Abingdon Pittsylvania Roanoke

LD Consultants Council Landscape Design School III Tidewater District Meeting Shenandoah District Meeting Southwest District Meeting South Central District Meeting Blue Ridge District Meeting NGC Flower Show Judges HB Exam VFGC Board of Directors Charlottesville VFGC Member Meeting Charlottesville NGC National Flower Show Buffalo, NY NGC Convention Buffalo, NY National Garden Week Plant Together Community Garden Project Flower Show School IV Richmond Flower Show Judges Symposium Staunton VFGC Board of Directors Staunton

Order bulbs from Brent and Beckys Bulbs and 25% of the sale will be donated to Virginia Federation of Garden Clubs. Its simple: Go to www.bloominbucks.com Select Virginia Federation of Garden Clubs from the organization drop down list Purchase any item on their website Brent and Beckys Bulbs will send a percentage of your sale to VFGC.

Thank you for your support. Winter 2011-12 Old Dominion Gardener 29

Virginia Federation of Garden Clubs, Inc. Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden 1800 Lakeside Avenue Richmond, VA 23228-4700 Non-Profit Org. U. S. Postage PAID Permit No. 37 Richmond, VA

VFGC Member Meeting Monday, April 30, 2012

Charlottesville, VA

Details inside