New Projects

Operation Sleigh Bells A Family and Children Services signature program, started in 1909 by Long Branch community leaders, using their personal resources to buy toys and books for impoverished children. Our annual giving back to those in need project has been a project since 2012. Contact: Judy Bonanno Members participating: 26

Walled/Greenhouse Garden

This garden, located at the entrance to Manson Park is believed to be the greenhouse for the Wardell Estate. The walled garden utilizes rain barrels and has multiple containers to delight visitors through the seasons. It is planted with David Austin roses, butterfly bush, irises, sedum, catmint, and fragrant flowers. Contact: Terese Blake Members participating: 26

Weeding and Water Summer Maintenance

Through the summer two or three members sign up for several weeks each to weed and water the planters at the municipal building, the area surrounding the flagpole, the planters, and the gardens in front of the Shrewsbury Historical Society/eagle statue, the walled/ greenhouse garden, the 9/11 gazebo/butterfly waystation, and Allen House herb garden.

Wreaths Across America: GCNJ Special Project The members of the club donate to the Wreaths Across America Project to honor an American hero at the Presbyterian Church and Christ Church cemeteries. What better way to ensure that the legacy of duty, service and sacrifice of a veteran, is never forgotten? Contact: Carey French Members participating: 26

Shrewsbury Garden Club New Projects 2021-2022

Allen House Herb Garden

In preparation for the 50th anniversary of the Herb Garden in 2024 and the renovation of the Allen House, club members will plan to reinvigorate this 18th century colonial kitchen garden. In conjunction with the Monmouth County Historical Association and other community organizations we will update the design to include historically accurate herbs, vegetables, and flowers to add to or replace the ones presently in the garden.

Shrewsbury Garden Club New Projects 2021-2022

Horticulture Challenge/Propagation Our horticulture challenge will focus on propagation by cuttings, division, layering, and seed starting. Our goal is to produce more plants for our continuing garden projects and fundraisers. With a focus on flowers, herbs and vegetables that are drought tolerant, pollinator friendly, native, or historically accurate for our projects.

In Memoriam

SGC member, Belle Giblon celebrated her 100th birthday in 2020 and we lost her in 2021. We had planted an oak leaf hydrangea which is native to the United States, and provides four seasons of interest, but the deer had it for dinner! A new paniculata hydrangea, “Pinky Winky” was planted as a replacement. We also lost Life Member Barbara Billings in 2021 and a second “Pinky Winky” was planted over the summer at the corner of the Shrewsbury Historical Society where our meetings are held.

Shrewsbury Historical Society

Plans will be made to remove remaining grass and to extend the beds to include native and drought tolerant perennials and shrubs to include four season interests for all to enjoy.

“I know it sounds ridiculous, but I haven’t quite got over the miracle that you plant things, and they do sprout up.” Natasha Little

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JULY AND AUGUST 2021

During the summer months SGC members partner up and take several weeks each to maintain all municipal gardens and planters that beautify our town complex. In August we had several butterfly releases for the community to enjoy at the waystation.

Due to Covid-19, projects, challenges, speakers, workshops, and fundraising may be cancelled, rescheduled, or held virtually. The SGC will adhere to Governor Murphy’s social distancing and mask requirement. At the time of this printing, GCNJ did not have many events scheduled, therefore not all are in this book. See updates at gardenclubofnewjersey.org throughout the year.