Wheatley Horticultural Society unveils plans for arboretum

By Greg Coulter

Wheatley community spirit continues to thrive and bounce back from last year’s explosion.

The members of the Wheatley Horticultural Society are just one of many groups that continue to improve the village and surrounding area.

They recently spearheaded a community-wide initiative to improve the local park area gardens and continue with the main street’s flower and hanging baskets, faithfully watered by Scott Makey.

Chatham-Kent Mayor Darrin Canniff, left, watches as C-K councillor Melissa Harrigan addresses the guests along with Horticultural Society President Donna Matier, right.

Greg Coulter photo

Their latest project kicked off on Saturday, July 9 with a flag raising ceremony at the Wheatley Area Arena to celebrate the Year of the Garden.

The ceremony also included a tree planting to kick off the new Arboretum and Learning Trail located just north of the ball diamonds. After the ceremony, eight homeowners teamed with the group to open their properties for the first ever garden tour.

The tour was very successful with over 100 tickets sold and also featured refreshments and baked goods. Proceeds raised from the tour and a raffle will go directly to the purchase of trees, information signs, benches and workout equipment for the new learning trail.

President Donna Matier noted that Canada becomes the first country to celebrate the Year of the Garden, inviting Canadians to “Live the Garden Life” and discover the positive effects of gardening. Dignitaries on hand included Chatham-Kent Mayor Darrin Caniff, Ward 1 Councillor Melissa Harrigan, Genevieve Champagne, CK Active Transportation and Special Events co-ordinator, and Steve DeGoey from Peanut Centre Nursery, as well as the Horticultural Society Board of Directors and volunteers.