This time of year, we tend to reflect on the past year s activities, as we assess levels of success and attempt to set our budgets for 1985.
As of our October 1984 statement year to date performance has an overall positive trend. The membership revenues are up substantially over last year (21%) and last year had shown an increase of 17% over 1982.
Course revenues and facility rentals are also showing excellent gains but we must be realistic in projecting further major gains since the activity levels we have generated are already straining our building s capacity at many points during the year. The needs for more major maintenance and refurbishing are becoming more critical as the increased activity levels put heavy wear and tear on aging carpets, drapes, wall coverings, lighting fixtures and furnishings such as tables & chairs.
It has been most encouraging to welcome the N. Toronto Hort. Soc. here as another very active resident club and in the past month we have been able to help with publicizing 3
Season s
new specialty clubs organizational meeting. Two of the 3 clubs held their initial meetings here and we trust they will hold at least 3 or 4 meetings at CGC in 1985.
Once again for 1985, CGC has been given the whole of the east mezzanine of the automotive building for the Garden Festival 1985 from Feb. 20th to the 24th to co-ordinate as an educational feature area. We have offered space to our user groups as well as to outside amateur horticultural groups and agencies dealing with amateur gardening. I am quite pleased that the Centre has been able to act as a catalyst for such extensive publicity for gardening at the amateur level. cont.
. CGreetings
MESSAGE TO MEMBERS
(Continued)
Later in 1985 we expect to take active roles at the Garden Club of Toronto Flower Show at the new Metro Convention Centre April 17 - 21, 1985. We expect to take a display and sales exhibit to the Ont. Hort. Assoc. Convention in June and are looking at extending our CNE participation to include our specialized sales areas.
A new innovation for 85 will see the CGC holding The Great Gardening Conference Nov.16th &17th with a whole series of international calibre lecturers from U.K., USA and Canada.
Our members program nights have been increasingly popular throughout the year.
As you can see it will be a very active organization in 1985 and we look forward to extending our volunteer base even further. We were pleased to have about 100 members turn out for our volunteer party and wish to extend a great big thank you to our 175 or so volunteers who helped make 1984 so successful.
I have just returned from a 4 day Canadian National conference on Philanthropy. @ As members of the Canadian Centre for Philanthropy we are among the 47,000 -charitable organizations across Canada who are not only looking for funding, but are also utilizing mainly voluntary help to carry out the associations aims and objectives.
The sessions I took in dealt mainly with the legal and tax issues. We are currently in a period of change with regard to both legal and tax issues. New legislation, and policy have made the importance of a broad base of financial support as even higher priority for all charities. At the same time, however, changes in the income tax act have placed more significant tax advantages on direct personal private contributions.
I should like to express my appreciation to all of you for your hard work, your dedication and your unfailingly cheerful presence during Autumn Cornucopia 1984.
Without you and your many talents we would not have had such a successful show. I am looking forward to next year s Cornucopia and hope I can count on you again. Keep up the good work you are terrific!
Gerda Ferrington Cornucopia Convener
SNIPPY TIPS
Two new revised editions of Snippy Tips are now available in the Trellis Shop. No. 1 Care of Cut Flowers and Plant Material and No. 2 Drying and Preserving Plant Material . $2.00 each
WONDERLAND OF BULBS
Send $1.00 for our new catalogues, refundacie on first order.
The multitude of rare and interesting bulbs listed, over 700 varieties, many difficult to obtain elsewhere, will prove to be a revelation. By far the most complete bulb catalogue in Canada.
C. A. CRUICKSHANK LTD.
Since 1925
Canada' s Leading Bulb Specialists 1015 Mount Pleasant Road Toronto M4P 2M1 488-8292
The CIVIC GARDEN CENTRE
PROGRAMME SCHEDULE
Can. Chrysanthemum Society - Christmas Party
Gesneriad Society 2 - 4 p.m. Christmas Party
Toronto Bonsai Society 8 p.m. Photographing Bonsai Trees - light, etc.
Garden Therapy Group meeting 12:30 - 2:30 - Handicapped people
welcomed - More information call Judy Boon 445-1552 to Jan. 2 Closed for Inventory
Mens Garden Club meeting 8 p.m. WEDNESDAY this time
LADIES NIGHT - Speaker Verna Laurin from the Can. Iris Society
S. Ontario Orchid Society meeting 1 - 5 p.m. Auction of Orchid plants
Chinese Brush Painting 10 week course starts 10 a.m. beginners and 1:30 for Intermediates
Jan. 16 Beg. Japanese Flower Arr. 3 week course from 10 - 3 pm
Jan. 17 Perennials for Ont. Gardens 8 week course at 8 p.m.
Jan. 23 Intermediate Corsage course one day workshop 10 - 3 p.m.
Feb. 6 Gardening with Wildflower 5 week course at 8 p.m.
Feb. 6 Designing a Winter Garden one evening only at 7:30 pm
% W
Specializes in dried and silk flower arrangements.
Arrangements for sale in The Trellis Shop or
Come to the Centre Mon. or Tues. 9.30 to 2 p.m.
Bring your favourite container or try one of ours, and give us your colour scheme and size requirements.
HOLIDAY SEASON STORE HOURS
PRE CHRISTMAS SALE
Dec. 17to 21 - 9:30 to 4 p.m.
Dec. 22 & 23 - 12noon to 4 p.m.
CLOSED FOR INVENTORY DEC. 24 to JAN. 2nd
AFTER INVENTORY SALE BEGINS JANUARY 3, 1985
WINTER HOURS
from Nov. 11th to April 30th Trellis Shop and Library Mon to Fri. 9:30 -4 pm,Sat.,Sun.12-4
General Information
Volume 11, No.10 ISSN 0380-1470
Executive Director: Gordon D. Wick
Advertising: G. D. Wick (416) 445-1552
Printed by Munns Press Ltd., Whitby, Ont.
Trellis is published ten times per year as a member s newsletter, by the Civic Garden Centre, 777 Lawrence Ave. East, Don Mills, Ontario M3C 1P2 Telephone (416)445-1552
The Centre is located in Edwards Gardens, at Leslie St. and Lawrence Avenue East, at the geographical centre of Metropolitan Toronto. It is a non-profit, volunteer based, gardening and floral arts information organization with open membership. Opinions expressed within do not necessarily reflect those of the Centre.
Continuing with the Civic Garden Centre members program series we are pleased to have as our January guest speaker HELEN SKINNER
THE FRENCH GARDEN TODAY
THURSDAY, JANUARY 17,1985 7:30 p.m. at
THE CIVIC
GARDEN CENTRE
777 LAWRENCE AVE. E., Don Mills, Ontario
Mrs. Helen Skinner is accredited as a decorative and horticultural judge. She is also active in garden clubs in Ont. and writes articles on early Canadian gardens.
Helen Skinner recently has travelled to France and toured many gardens of both historic and contemporary design.
Her illustrated talk will give us a view of France today as seen through its gardens; from a tiny window box seen on a village cottage to a plantsman s original garden, to the classic designs of Versailles and Villandry.
UPCOMING MEMBERS NIGHTS
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 12th - Joint meeting with NORTH TORONTO HORTICULTURAL SOC.
Slide presentation on Wildflowers of Spring by Kay McGregor.
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 27th by Les Marsh GREAT GARDENS OF THE WORLD -an Audio-Visual Presentation
YardenFestival &8S
Where you will see the latest ideas on gracious living Gardens galore for you to explore
Incorporating two great shows for one low price
FLOWER & GARDEN SHOW POOL & SPA SHOW Automotive Building Queen Elizabeth Building
Exhibition Place, Toronto February 20-24, 1985
Flower arranging competitions (sponsored by the Ontario Horticultural Association)
For further information contact: GARDEN FESTIVAL 85 41450 Don Mills Rd. Don Mills, Ontario M3B 2X7 (416) 445-6641
Produced by Southex Exhibitions
Sponsored by: l
The CIVIC GARDEN CENTRE
WORKSHOPS AND COURSES
JANUARY THROUGH MAY 1985
4044 GARDENING WITH WILDFLOWERS
5 week course on WEDNESDAYS, FEB. 6,13,20,27,MAR. 6, 1985
TIME: 8.00 p.m. Instructor: Frank E. Kershaw
FEE: $20. mem. $25. non-mem.
Sources of plants, planting and plant selection and mulching, as well as a session on design and layout are some of the topics to be covered in this course on an increasingly popular topic.
4049 PERENNIALS FOR ONTARIO GARDENS
8 week course on THURS. JAN.17,(skip 24),31,FEB.7,14,21,28 MAR.7,14,/85.
TIME: 8.00 p.m. Instructor: Keith Squires
FEE: $50. mem. $55. non-mem.
Each student must purchase a book Canadian Garden Perennials which will be available the first night for $12.95
4053 OUTDOOR GARDENING
5 week course on MONDAYS, MAR. 4,11,18,25, APR. 1, 1985
The course will cover Growing Conditions (soil,fertilizer,location), Perennials, Annuals & Vegetables, Roses and Bulbs & Propagation.
4040
DESIGNING A UNIQUE WINTER GARDEN
A one time session for 3 hours on WEDNESDAY, FEB. 6, 1985
TIME: 7:30 p.m. Instructor: Art Coles
FEE: $8. mem. $10 non-mem.
How to select plants that will provide flowers, fruit, bark and foliage colour during the winter months.
4050 RENOVATING OLD GARDENS
3 week course on TUESDAYS, FEB. 12, 19, 26, 1985
TIME: 7:30 p.m. Instructor: Wes Porter
FEE: $15. mem. $20.non-mem.
For those confronted with gardens in run-down condition, this course shows how to bring it back into prime by special attention to lawns, trees and shrubs, fruit trees, perennial beds, fertilizing, pest and disease control and rebuilding garden structures. Instruction includes keeping the garden in good condition once renovation is achieved.
4054 BALCONY GARDENING
2 week course on WEDNESDAY, MAY 1, 8, 1985
TIME: 7:30 p.m. Instructor: Wes Porter
FEE: $10. mem. $14.non-mem.
Highrise horticulture is a very intensive crash course on how to grow flowers, vegetables, herbs and even trees,stories high. Instruction in new light-weight potting mixes to reduce cost and loads, suitable plants for all situations, cultural directions and sources of plant and other materials. Student requirements: notebook, drawing paper, straight edge, pencil,eraser.
Please use the form
As classes are limited - Bookings are made as received
FLOWER ARRANGING COURSES
4045 BASIC FLOWER ARRANGING
5 week course on WEDNESDAY, MARCH 6, 13, 20, 27, APR. 3, 1985
TIME: 9:45a.m., 1:30 p.m. or 8:00 p.m.
FEE: $20. mem. $25.non-mem.
Particulars: Please Bring to the First Class
1. Small low container about 10" in diameter (oblong or round)
2. Small pincup or holder
3. 5 or 7 blooms (some to be in bud) also a few leaves of foliage
4. 2 or 3 slender branches, beauty of line NO SHORTER THAN 18
5. Sharp knife or garden snips & carton to carry home finished arrangement
Flower Arranging Equipment Available for purchase at the Civic Garden Centre
4047 INTERMEDIATE FLOWER ARRANGING
4 week course on WEDNESDAY, APRIL 24, MAY 1,8,15,1985
TIME: 1:30 p.m. afternoon or 8:00 evening
FEE: $15.mem. $20 non-mem.
First week covers Bases, 2nd week accessories, 3rd week fruit and vegetables and last week will be candles
Please bring for first day Container of your choice with a suitable base plus items 2,3,4,5 above.
4042
INTERMEDIATE CORSAGE WORKSHOP
One day workshop on WEDNESDAY, Jan. 23, 1985
TIME: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Instructor: Anne Wilson
FEE: $5.00 mem. $7.00 non-mem.
This course is for students who have had at least 2 basic course in Corsage
2. Garden snips and Flora tape (available at Centre)
3. Kits including required number of corsage pins, bags, wire and ribbon have been prepared and are available to applicants at the Class.
4. Flowers and foliage to be used also available. Please purchase at class.
4058
BEGINNERS CORSAGE WORKSHOP
One day workshop on TUESDAY, APRIL 2,1985
TIME: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Instructor: Anne Wilson
FEE: $5. mem. $7.non-mem. Please bring a lunch
Items required for this course same as for Intermediate above.
4051
ADVANCED CORSAGE WORKSHOP
One day workshop on TUESDAY, APRIL 23, 1985
TIME: 10 a.m.to 3 p.m. Instructor: Anne Wilson
FEE: $5.mem $7.non-mem. Please bring a lunch
Items required for this course same as for Intermediate above.
The CIVIC GARDEN CENTRE
777 Lawrence Ave. East, (At Leslie), Don Mills, Ont. M3C 1P2 (416) 445-1552
An independent, non-profit, volunteer based, membership organization devoted to education and promotion ofhorticulture and the floral arts.
HOLIDAY GIFT CENTE
Trellis Shop
The Trellis Shop, on the lower level of the Civic Garden Centre, combines a gift, garden and book store for the convenience and pleasure of our members, tourists and visitors to the Civic Garden Centre.
Although the shop is not a big one the selection of merchandise is large and varied. Our garden shop is well stocked with all the basic supplies for indoor gardening and seed starting. as well as the smaller tools necessary for plant care. The book store contains a large inventory of books pertaining to all aspects of gardening and flower arranging.
Flower Arrangers come from all over Ontario to purchase floral supplies including oasis for fresh and dried arrangements, pinholders imported from the U.S. and England, and all other items used in the various aspects of flower arranging.
Our gifts have become more diversified as our volunteer gift committee searches out the new and interesting for both gardeners and gift purchasers. They promise us a marvellous selection for Xmas gift giving so keep us in mind for these very special presents. As always we promise to keep our prices low and all our members are eligible for a 10% discount.
A reminder that our award winning flower arranging experts of the Dried Flower Workshop are back again in September with a new selection of their beautiful floral centrepieces, wastepaper baskets and other smaller items for your enjoyment.
CHRISTMAS ( Stocking Stuffersfor YourFavorite G
The Colour Dictionary of Flowers and Plants for the Home and Garden
R. Hay & P. Synge, Crown Publishing
A marvellous reference book with excellent, true colour photographs. Good descriptions too, as befits a joint \ publication of the Brooklyn Botanic Garden and the Royal Horticultural Society. J $18.95
Canadian Garden Perennials - Buckley, Hancock House.
The definitive book on growing perennials in Canada, one might almost say the only perennial book. It was written canadian T by an experienced grower with Agriculture Canada and %, ot contains good descriptions, brief growing instructions and osuckLEY excellent photographs. The major problem is in finding the i | nurseries that grow the wonderful list of perennials described. Nevertheless as more and more growers become interested and demand different perennial varieties, the more they are becoming available.
$12.95
| TheCottageGarden The Cottage Garden Anne Scott-James, Penquin.
Bookish gardeners are compulsive garden book readers. When given a choice between a wordy Victorian garden tome and their favourite thriller they will inevitably ¢hoose the tome. The Cottage Garden, however, is not a tome. While not exactly appropriate as a how to book for Canadians it is a racy, light look at the history and evolution of the English cottage garden. The illustrations colour and enliven the pages and the text is enjoyable to read as those who have heard Anne Scott-James on the English Ak 8l yaniah panel program, My Word, might well expect. $29.95 " GrahamStuart Thomas yy
Three Gardens Graham Stuart Thomas, Allen Lane.
One of England s best known gardeners describes the three gardens he created for himself over the years. Much of the material he used can be adapted for Canadian use and his s design concepts are universal. His prose makes pleasant reading also. :
$24.95
sIFT IDEAS
irdeners and Plant Enthusiasts!
A Garden of Herbs Eleanor Sinclair Rohde, Dover Publications.
A book to be dipped into for pleasure and for research on &+ the fascinating and sometimes ancient information about & herbs. The information is interesting and useful and ancient recipes, when tried, still work!
paper $ 6.50
The
Old Shrub Roses
Old Shrub Roses Graham Stuart Thomas, Dent.
No one needs to be afraid of reading English books on old roses for many varieties are hardy here and can be found in Canadian nurseries that specialize in old roses. This book has good historical information and excellent descriptions and growing instructions.
$ 27.95
Wild and Old Garden Roses Gordon Edwards, Hafner, McMillan.
A companion book to Graham Stuart Thomas Old Shrub @&, Roses. It is charmingly written by a talented amateur grower and contains fascinating historical references and beautiful illustrations - a rose grower s bedside table book!
$16.25
Shrubs of Ontario Soper and Heimburger, ROM
A long awaited reprint and a wonderful guide to native shrubs with well written descriptions and identification guides. Delightful extras are found in the notes giving interesting, historical, botanical and culinary information.
$20.00
For Love of a Rose - Antonia Ridge, faber & faber.
A delightful story of the families that produced the Peace rose. A good book for Aunt Bess Christmas present or for a gardener who likes a relaxing, peaceful read . paper $5.95
ANTONIA RIDGE FOR LOVE OF A ROSE Sy of e . ofthe fammns P R
FLOWER ARRANGING BOOKS
Flowers in the Modern Manner - Aaronson, Growers Books.
One of the best recent publications for flower arrangers, the book contains a superb variety of creative modern designs. Full descriptions not only list plant material but mechanics too!
paper $ 15.95 or cloth $ 28.50
Creative Flower Arrangement
Jean Taylor
The collection of information in this book makes it a must for every flower arranger. It is incredible that one publication could give so much guidance. It will stimulate the experienced designer to try almost anything whilst encouraging the beginner to make a start.
$13.95
Flower Arranging and Flower Festivals in Church
Grizelda Maurice
i Here is a wonderful guide to those engaged in Church flower arranging both the experienced and the beginners. Ingenious mechanics, choice and care of plant material with particular attention to the need for decorations in sympathy with the occasion and the architectural style of the church.
$23.95
The Constance Spry Book of Flower Arranging
Harold Piercy
The beautiful photography in this book is only one of the many reasons it would be lovely to own or to give as a gift. It is a very special publication which is full of information and inspiration.
The A Z section on the growing, identification, care and conditioning of plant material is outstanding. On the other hand for those who are interested there is a chapter on the use of Silk Flowers.
$14.95
FOR COURSES & WORKSHOPS
led and mail proper remittance
o¢ We regret no confirmation of registration can be sent
FLOWER ARRANGING COURSES
4046 BEGINNERS IKENOBO IKEBANA FLOWER ARRANGING
3 week workshop on WEDNESDAYS JAN. 16, 23, 30,1985
TIME: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Instructor: Mrs. Kadoguchi & Ella Irving
FEE: $20. mem. $25. non-mem. Please bring a lunch
First Day - Moribana and Nageire - Please bring -
1. Cylinder type container - Not Glass - and a flat type - available at Trellis Shop
2. Pinholder, heavy
3. Clippers
Flowers and branches for this course will be provided at approx. $2.50 per day
3 week workshop on WEDNESDAYS FEB. 6, 13, 20, 1985
TIME: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Instructors: Mrs. Kadoguchi & Ella Irving FEE: $20. mem. $25. non-mem. Please bring a lunch
First Day - Shoka Style - Morning - Nishu-ike (2 species Shoka) Afternoon - Sanshu-ike (3 species Shoka)
Please Bring -
1. Container of your choice (Japanese style or flat dish) Not a Cylinder
2. Heavy pin holder
3. Clippers
4. Notebook and pencil. NOTE: 1,2, & 3 will be available at the Trellis Shop Flowers & Branches for this course will be provided at approx. $2.50 per day
4059 BASIC SOGETSU IKEBANA FLOWER ARRANGING
8 week course on THURSDAYS MAR. 7,14,21,28,APR.4,11,18,25, 1985
TIME: 1:30 p.m. Instructor: Ada Smith
FEE: $30. mem. $35.non-mem.
First Day - A lecture and demonstration and what to bring the following week Please bring notebook and pencil.
4041
DRIFTWOOD WORKSHOP
Two day workshops MONDAY MAR. 25 - Finishing driftwood pieces and TUESDAY MAR. 26 - Making an arrangement with your driftwood
TIME: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Instructor: Joan Creighton FEE: $10. mem. $14.non-mem. Please bring a lunch
PLEASE BRING:
First day - smock or apron or wear old clothes and bring newspapers Fine and medium sandpaper - plus assorted rasps and paint scrapers
Your own driftwood - if you wish to purchase call the office 445-1552
Second day - Dried flowers, treated leaves etc. to make an arrangement in your driftwood
4055
W THE CIVIC GARDEN CENTRE, EDWARDS
GARDENS
445-1552 777 Lawrence Ave. East, Don Mills M3C 1P2
RUG HOOKING
8 week course on FRIDAY JAN. 4,11,18,25, FEB. 1,8,15,22, 1985 THIS COURSE IS FILLED
4057
CHINESE BRUSH PAINTING
10 week course on MONDAYS JAN.7,14,21,28, FEB. 4,11,18,25,MAR.4,11/85
TIME: 10 a.m. - 12 noon BEGINNERS and 1:30 - 3:30 INTERMEDIATES FEE: $50. mem. $55.non-mem. Instructors: Moira Mudie & Patti Snell This course is for beginners and for those wishing to improve their watercolour brush technique.
PLEASE BRING
Students please come prepared with a large newspring pad, two containers for water and some paper towels. Basic supplies available for purchase at the first class and a list of sources where supplies can be found will be handed out.
4052
BOTANICAL DRAWING & PAINTING
8 week course on TUESDAY, JAN. 8,15,22,29, FEB. 5,12,19,26, 1985
TIME: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Instructor: Homer Moelchert FEE: $50. mem. $55.non-mem. Please bring a lunch
Instruction in the elements of drawing and watercolour painting are covered in this course. Focusing on living plant materials, the course is structured around particular exercises and media much as in a figure drawing class. Because there is an emphasis on individual instruction students will be able to work at their own level.
4052
BOTANICAL DRAWING & PAINTING
The next course will be 8 weeks on MARCH 5,12,19,26, APRIL 2,9,16,23,1985 TIME, FEE, and PARTICULARS same as above.
4056
PLEASURE FROM PHOTOGRAPHY
6 week course on WEDNESDAY APRIL 17, 24, MAY 1,8,15,22, 1985
TIME: 8:00 p.m. Instructors: Joan and John Powell FEE: $30.mem. $35.non-mem.
Topic: Basic Approach to Better Photography
This is intended to start the beginner on the road to successful photography and to act as a review for the more experienced. Additional instructional assistance is available if needed at no extra cost. It is a comprehensive course covering the varied subject matter and techniques encountered by the Photographer.
4048 CREATIVE NATURE CRAFTS
3 week workshops on MONDAYS APRIL 15, 22 and 29, 1985
TIME: 10 a.m.to 3 p.m. Instructor: Mary French FEE: for each workshop. $5. mem. $7.non-mem. Please bring a lunch
These are lectures in the morning & workshops in the afternoon APRIL 15 - Pressed FlowersAPRIL 22 - Skeletonizing APRIL 29 - Pine Cone and Teasel Pets
Bring own material if you have any but items will be available for purchase
Christmas Tree Growers Assoc. of Ont.Inc.
In this plastic, artificial world of today, it s nice to hold on to a few of the old traditions Like a natural Christmas tree.
The tradition of bringing a natural tree into our homes at Christmas originated a long time ago in Germany as a tribute to nature and to cheer us through the dark, cold season. The fragrant natural tree brings out good feelings, relating to our natural roots.
Natural trees, when placed with the butt in water, are safer than plastic trees. When the moisture content of the needles is 100 percent, it cannot be ignited with a match.
However, if you touch a match to a plastic tree the needles ignite instantly, dropping fireballs of plastic on the rug and emitting poisonous fumes.
Even when a natural tree has been cut
For all your gardening needs ...all year round.
ealland Cullen
NURSERY GARDEN CENTRES
and stored for several weeks it will recover and maintain a safe moisture content when set in water.
So this year, help support a vital Ontario industry. Christmas Trees are grown as a field crop and harvested for your enjoyment. During their growing years, they cleanse the air, provide you with oxygen, protect your water supply, make a home for wildlife and beautify the land. For every natural tree harvested, three new trees are planted.
So this year, select a natural tree and enjoy Christmas the way it was meant to be enjoyed. The old-fashioned way
THE CIVIC GARDEN CENTRE 777 LAWRENCE AVE. EAST, DON MILLS, M3C 1P2 445-1552
Address City Code PLEASE REGISTER ME FOR THE FOLLOWING EVENTS
CLASS NO.
COURSE OR WORKSHOP TIME EEE
I would like to take advantage of reduced rates offered members and enclose $10. for my annual fee (add $2.50 for each additional family member $....................... Credit Card Users Only
Expiration Date ED:D Month/Year Signature
Another year is drawing to a close already!!! Everybody s thinking of Christmas shopping and making pre- parations for the holidays.
I 'm hoping that December will give us time to catch our breaths because as soon as 1985 arrives we ll be working hard preparing for Garden Festival 85 and a huge assortment of other activities.
Although the Centre will be closed from Monday 24th December until Thursday 3rd January we will be here taking inventory in the shop. If you are not going away and could lend a hand on December 27, 28, 29 or 31st please give me a call, as always we ll be pleased to see you.
I sincerely hope that your holidays are happy and that 1985 brings you health, happiness and peace.
Dorothy
The Trellis Shop
We would like to thank all of our members who have visited the shop to purchase their Christmas gifts and we do appreciate your very enthusiastic comments.
For the last minute shoppers we have received beautiful Boda style slim crystal oil lamps in five sizes. These have heavy bases to prevent toppling and are priced from $12.50 to $18.50. Also, new and for Christmas are attractive red and green glass globe inserts for candlesticks. These hold votive lamps of which we have a good supply.
All our Christmas merchandise will be on sale from December 17th to December 23rd.
We wish you all a joyous Christmas.
Begin. Where Great Gardens
At your closest Sheridan Garden Centre you will find the finest selection of nur- sery stock in Canada, including more than 750 varieties of plants and trees grown on Sheridan's own farms.
And Sheridan s nurserystockisguaranteed for onefullyear. At Sheridan Garden Centresyou will also find qualified nursery- men who will be pleased to help you in any way they can.
AGINCOURT ETOBICOKE 3444 Sheppard Ave. E., Toronto M1T 3K4 700 Evans Ave., Etobicoke M9C 1A1 Tel. 822-0251 Tel. 481-6429 Tel. 293-2493 Tel. 621-9100 UNIONVILLE g OSHAWA KITCHENER 4077 Hwy. 7, Unionville 847 King St. W, Oshawa 100 ElImsdale Road, Kitchener L3R 1L5 Tel. 728-9429 Tel. 743-4146 Tel. 477-2253
LANDSCAPE DEPARTMENTS: Metropolitan Toronto 621-9111, Kitchener/Waterloo 743-4146.
GARDENING NOTEBOOK
by Ruta Stancikas
DECEMBER
With all of the outdoor gardening jobs accomplished and the garden laid to rest , we can pretty well sit back for a few months and relax! The arrival of next year s seed catalogues is something to look forward to, and we should now concentrate on the health and welfare of our indoor plants and prepare for the fast-approaching festive season.
The season s heavy snowfalls can break branches of shrubs, so when you re out there shovelling take a minute to shake the snow off branches, gently.
If you are using a cold frame for the first time this year, continue ventilating until the ground is completely frozen, then mulch lightly and replace the sash covering it with mats of straw.
With indoor bulb forcing, a common mistake beginners are guilty of is bringing the bulbs out of darkness too soon. Shoots should be at least three inches tall and these plants should be brought in gradually to light and warmth.
Don t forget to check on your stored begonias, gladioli and dahlias for damp, rot or drying out.
HOUSEPLANTS
Beginning with the first week of December, Christmas cacti should be placed in sunlight. At this time they will prefer a temperature of around 21 deg. C. and you should continue to lightly fertilize them. They ll appreciate more to drink this month too!
Window ledge geraniums should, for best results, be exposed to southern light and a cool room is preferable. A pot-bound, underwatered state for these plants is ideal.
Continue keeping all your other houseplants on the dry side.
CHRISTMAS PLANTS
In December, gift plants are proliferous. The change in environment however - from steamy greenhouse to a dry, hot home - can be shocking. Here are some pointers that will help prolong the life of your gift plants:
The Poinsettia is one of the most traditional Christmas gift plants. First introduced in the U.S. in 1825 by Joel Poinsett, U.S. Ambassador to Mexico, this is a plant that has enjoyed immense popularity in the Christmas period. Mexicans have called it The Flower of the Holy Night , and legend has it that a poinsettia first flowered on a Christmas Eve. The poinsettia is pretty easy to care for and isn t fussy over light and temperature conditions. Water it when the soil has dried out slightly and feed it with a liquid fertilizer once a month. Continue this treatment and it should keep its coloured bracts till spring.
The Gloxinia goes dormant after flowering, its leaves drop off and it looks like it s ready to be pitched in the trash can but it s not! Store the bulb in its pot on its side in 15 deg. C. temperature for about two months. Then, bring it out, water and feed it lightly and new foliage will soon appear, followed by flowers. cont.
HISTORIC ENGLISH GARDENS
A 22-day tour of the gardens in England that have inspired, influenced and indeed created landscape art for four centuries. August 31 - September 21, 1985
Led by Dr. Douglas Chambers University of Toronto
Designed by: Sparks, Slater & Associates Travel 1 Gloucester St. No. 102, Toronto M4Y 1L8 Contact: Clare Slater, 921.3138
GARDENING NOTEBOOK
The Kalanchoe, originally from Madagascar, is another favourite plant gift during this season. This is a relatively undemanding plant and fairly drought-resistant because of its succulent leaves which store consider- able amounts of water. It is partial, however, to a sunny south window.
The Azalea is most comfortable in a cool atmosphere of 15 deg. C. Spray the foliage with lukewarm water once a week and give it a 10 minute plunge in a bucket of water once a week. Once you allow the peat soil to dry out it is extremely difficult to re- moisten it and will result in an almost overnight leaf-drop.
The Amaryllis. The grace of the trumpet-like amaryllis bloom is breath- taking. Unfortunately, the blooms don t last much longer than two weeks. As soon as the flowers fade,
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cut the stalk back to the neck of the bulb and fertilize the plant once a month with a fish emulsion. In the spring once the danger of frost has passed you can take it outdoors, or even dig it right into the garden. Just dig a hole large enough to hold the pot and top up to the rim with soil. Continue fertilization. By mid- summerallow the plant to dry out, cut back on watering and discontinue fertilization. The leaves will turn yellow. In late August bring the potted bulb indoors, cut away the dead leaves and select a cool spot such as a basement or garage with a temper- ature of 10-13 deg. C. and store the bulb on its side for a rest period. By mid-November pull the bulb out of the pot and check for mealy bugs and mites. If they are present discard the bulb. If it checks out OK, pot it up with fresh soil allowing an inch be- tween the bulb and the edge of the pot. Place it over a regular heat source such as a radiator for bottom heat. If you keep your fingers crossed it will probably bloom again in two to three months!
CHRISTMAS TREES
If you ve planned to have a live tree this Christmas, no matter what stand you use you should provide the tree with water. A bucket with two to three inches of water is probably the easiest. Before you set it up, cut off an inch from the base of the trunk which will expose fresh cells and help the tree to absorb the water. Not only will this keep the tree looking attract- ive longer, it will cut down on the mess created by needle drop.
Collector of Miniature Roses For list and map Write Florence Gahagan P.O.
COLUMNEA EARLY BIRD
(Goldfish Plant)
by Ernie Pope
The writer has previously commented on several occasions on this excellent houseplant. He is doing so again because he believes, that within a decade, it will be one of the most widely grown of all houseplants.
His reasons are:
1. Tt is virtually ever blooming.
2. It will grow in any general houseplant soil.
3. It enjoys normal indoor temperatures.
4. It has attractive form and a moderate trailing habit.
5. Its luminous orange blooms with yellow throats are most striking and look like floating goldfish.
6. Cuttings can be taken from the plants and will root readily in any rooting medium, even ordinary
potting soil. These cuttings will bloom within three months, occasionally doing so while rooting.
7. It prefers a sunny exposure but will grow well in bright light. It thrives under fluorescent lights.
8. George Elbert, the gesneriad authority calls it, the most popular columnea - a real beauty .
BOOK REVIEW
by Ernie Pope
The House Plant Expert: by Dr. D. G. Hessayon
What interested the reviewer in reading this book was, first, that although it was English, indoor garding conditions there are equally applicable to our own country. Secondly, because over severn million copies had already been sold, making it the world s best selling book on the subject. It really lives up to its reputation.
paper $11.50
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CIVIC GARDEN C ENTRE
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Treasurer Mr. Donald G. McLaren
Board of Directors:
For 1984: Mrs. Camilla Dalglish, Mrs. Mae Macmillan, Mr. Grant Ross, Mr. Fidenzio Salvatori, Mrs. Helen Skinner, Mr. Howard Stensson, Mr. David Tomlinson.
For 1984 & 1985: Mr. Brian Bixley, Mr. Charles Coffey, Mrs. Rae Fowler, Mr. Peter Hand, Mrs. Hazel Lyonde, Mr. Monte Watler
For 1984, 1985 & 1986: Mr. Art Drysdale, Mr. Albert M. Fisher, Mrs. Sue Macaulay Mr.Donald McLaren, Mr.Harold Wakefield, Mrs.Katie May McCarthy, Mr.Robert G. Bundy.
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