Photo by Sharon Kish
The Civic Garden Centre at Edwards Gardens
The Civic Garden Centre, founded in 1958, isa volunteer-based, not-for-profit organization whosemission is to act as a centralresource for gardening, horticulture and allied environmental issuesbyencouraging interest, promoting involvement, and gathering, disseminating and interpreting information in order to enhance the quality oflife for members ofthe community. Located at Edwards Gardens, The Civic Garden Centre offers many programs and services, including year-round activities forfamilies and children. Our premier horticultural library has over 8,000 books, 70 periodicals, and a large collection ofclippings, pamphlets, nursery and seed catalogues, as well as a great selection of children s gardening books. Horticultural Information Services offers free gardening information year-round, and the Trellis Shop has many unique gifts, books and gardening supplies for sale. The Teaching Garden has been created as a working garden to foster interest and educate people in the love and values of gardening andthe natural world. Asacommunity service, Art inthe Link offers gallery space to local artists. As well, the CGC offers a wide variety of banquet halls, meeting rooms and show space, in a magnificent combination of stone and glass with access to one of Toronto s favourite garden spots, perfect for making every kind offunction or special occasion memorable. The Civic Garden Centre has something for everyone.
HOURS OF OPERATION
Administrative Offices:
Monday to Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
CGC Library and Trellis Shop: April 1 to October 31
Monday to Friday 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Saturday, Sunday& Holidays 12 to 5 p.m.
November 1 to March 31
Monday to Friday 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Saturday, Sunday & Holidays 12 to 4 p.m.
DIRECTORY
Main Number: (416) 397-1340
Fax: (416) 397-1354
Email: cgel@idirect.com
Course Registration:
CGC Library: (416) 397-1362 (416) 397-1343
Horticultural Services: (416) 397-1358
Horticulturist: (416) 397-1355
Master Gardener s Free Info Line: (416) 397-1345
Monday to Friday 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Saturday, Sunday & Holidays 12 to 3 p.m.
Rentals: (416) 397-1349
Trellis Shop: (416) 397-1357
Volunteer Coordinator: (416) 397-4145
Photography Permit, Toronto Parks and Recreation Division: (416) 392-8188
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
President: Dr. Helen Shaw
Members:
Charlotte Ambridge Carolyn Kearns
Ilze Andzans Tracey C.H. Lawko
Timothy P.D. Bates Sonia Leslie
Dugald Cameron John Maclntyre
Judi Conacher Kenneth D. Maiden
Lindsay Dale-Harris ~ Barbara Mayer
Susan Dyer David Money
Judy Floyd Grace Patterson
Janet Greyson Sue Stevenson
Mark Hartley
STAFF MEMBERS
Manager, Community Services: Virginia Jones
Manager, Horticultural Services: Silke Gathmann
Accounting: Joe Sabatino
Administration: Shirley Lyons
Course Coordinator: Rosetta Leung
Librarian: Mara Arndt
Maintenance Supervisor: Walter Morassutti
Rental Agent: John Nijmeh
Acting Trellis Editor: Liz Primeau
Volunteer Coordinators:
Volunteers:
Dolce Tatlow
Teresa Ardanaz
Carol Gardner Over 350 volunteers
TRELLIS
Volume 26, Number 2
Acting Editor: Liz Primeau
Proofreader: Mara Arndt
Advertising information: (416) 397-1340
Printed by Harmony Printing, on recycled paper
Trellis is published six times a year as a members newsletter by The Civic Garden Centre, at Edwards Gardens, 777 Lawrence Avenue East, North York, Ontario M3C 1P2. Telephone number: (416) 397-1340.
Manuscripts submitted on a voluntary basis are gratefully received. No remuneration is possible.
Articles, manuscripts and advertising material must be received by the first of the month to insure publication eight weeks later. For example, material for the May/June issue should be received by March 1.
Opinions expressed in Trellis do not necessarily reflect those of the Centre. Submissions may be edited for style and clarity. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part is prohibited without written permission.
For smiles and h gs,
spend some time atthe CGC
by Carol Gardner
Gardeners have different opinions about manythings, butmostagree that one ofthekeys to a successful garden is good bones. Successful garden organizations need good bones too. At the Civic Garden Centre, our bones are the 350 active volunteers who lend their time and talents to special events, plant sales, tours, theteachinggarden, the library, Trellisshopand any otherplace they re needed.
To honour those volunteers, we re starting a regular column in 7rellis. If you re thinking of volunteering,don tthinkyouhavetobeanexpert to participate. Most ofus are here to learn more about our favourite obsession: gardening.
Just before leading my first Edwards Gardenstourlastsummer, I ferventlywhisperedthe neophyte s prayer - Please, please, don t let the group recognize more trees than I do!
They didn t, but I suspect it was very close. I m studyingoverthe winter! We need skills of everykind. The camaraderie is great, the staff is topnotch, andthe volunteers, as describedby 10-year volunteer Clare Fisher, are friendly, happy people who can roll with the punches. All the smiles, hugs and handshakes make the Centre a home away from home.
Whenwasthe lasttimeyougotthatatwork?
The Civic Garden Centre is pleased to welcome Teresa Ardanaz and Carol Gardner, who joined as volunteer coordinators January 12. Teresa and Carol share duties with Dolce Tatlow, who has held the position of Volunteer Coordinator since spring, 1998. The coordinator s office is now staffed five days aweek, and the extra assistance provided by Teresa and Carol will allow the CGC to more fully develop the roles ofvolunteers and its many initia-
(continued on page 4....)
Looking ahead to spring
Dr. Helen Shaw, president, Civic Garden Centre Board
Members ofthe Board s Human Resources Committee have been diligently conducting a search for an Executive Director. Many CGC members have been consulted and we are most grateful forthe cooperation andadvicereceived. We trust someone will be in the position soon. In the meantime, staff, CGC volunteers and Board members (who are also volunteers) have been working overtime to assure the continuance ofall planned programs.
On January 20, Marilyn Westlake gave an exciting talk in the Edwards Lecture series on the fantasy garden ofEdward James, in Xilitla, Mexico. One of her displayed photographs of the surrealistic artforms that fill hisjungle garden was sold after the presentation, which resultedin agenerous donationtothe show. Thank you, Marilyn.
Teaching Garden programs are now being prepared, and many school groups are already booked for tours during the gardening months. Staff and volunteers look forward to a second season in thiswonderful facility plan to come yourselfand have a look at the activity on the hill.
At each monthly Board meeting a member discusses his or her garden and shows slides or photographs. To date we ve learned about the gardens of Liz Primeau, David Money, Carolyn Kearns, MarkHartley, DugaldCameronand Barbara Mayer. The How Does Your Garden Grow? item on our agenda has added a new dimension to the content of meetings and reminds us that we re willing to spend so much time ensuring the viability ofthe Civic Garden Centre because we share a devotion to gardening. We assume you all relate to this passion. With this issue of Trellis we welcome Liz Primeau as acting editor. After 10 years in the position, Iris Phillips has resigned as editor; we all came to rely on her expertise and experi-
ence, and for all those years looked forward to reading her Editor s Notes. Iris has moved on to other pursuits. We wish her well and thank her for her dedication to Trellis.
For eight years Leslie Lynch worked with Iris as a volunteer editorial coordinator, and Leslie, too, has decided to step down. We are always amazed at the dedication ofmany ofour volunteers, and Leslie is one of them. Thank you, Leslie.
Hope to see you all at the Annual Meeting ofthe Civic GardenCentre, April 27 at 7:30pm. Atthe Edwards Lecture afterthemeeting, Board member Dugald Cameron, owner of Gardenimport Inc., will speak on New and Neglected Perennials. The nominating committee is preparing a slate ofproposed new Board members to be approved by the membership that night. If you have suitable candidates to suggest, please advise a member of the Board before March 15.
Welcome spring by attending Canada Blooms March 10-14, and drop by the Civic Garden Centre booth in the Horticultural Area.
Cheer up -- spring really is just around the corner!
Volunteer News
(....continuedfrom page 3)
tives. The schedule is as follows:
Carol:
Monday and Thursday 11a.m. to 3p.m.
Dolce:
Tuesday 10a.m. to 2p.m.
Teresa:
Wednesday and Friday 10a.m. to 2p.m.
Members interested in becoming more active at the Centre can drop by in person or call (416) 397-4145 for more information or an appointment.
Check out our great line-up of spring courses beginning on page 18 of this issue of Trellis.
For Garden Lovers
Even a utilitarian shed can be a focal point in the garden, as landscape architect Mark Hartley illustrated in his Edwards Lecture February 24. Mark took the audience through the process of design: what he sees when he arrives at a client s garden, how he visualizes a design and works with the client to refine and adjust it, and how it all turns out. There s not just a how to the design process, but a why , too, and I ll attempt to explain that as well, said Mark before the lecture. He illustrated his talk with before and after slides ofa handful ofprojects.
Markearnedhis degree in landscapearchitecture fromtheUniversity ofGuelph in 1980 andhas had his own business, Mark Hartley Landscape Architects Ltd., for five years.
Photo by Sharon Kish
Ifyou can t afford to be a snowbird andfly south, tryforcing some branchesfor an indoor display. They ll makeyour season. <
by Sheila Smith
Spring doesn t come soon enough for gardeners. We re always looking for ways to hasten the season, and a few pots ofspring-flowering bulbs is usually our solution. But your paperwhites are probably long gone, and daffodils, pretty as they are, might be starting to look ho-hum.
For a different breath ofspring, try forcing branches into bloom in your home. Beginning inJanuary, look inyourbackyard for trees and shrubs that will make a colourful bouquet. The mostpopular are thepussy willow and the luminous yellow forsythia. Forsythia is an ideal shrub to force because it s so willing to bloom. Look for older stems that have both leaf buds and narrow flower buds. As soon as the first branches cut come into bloom, pick another bunch they ll bloom a few days faster than the first. Repeat this cycle until the mother plant is ready to bloom outdoors, being careful nottocutmorethana thirdofthebranches. But since forsythia blooms on the previous year s wood and benefits from pruning, it won t likely be damaged by cuts for forcing.
Afterabitofexperienceyou llknowwhich shrubs and trees most easily provide a steady succession offlowers and foliage to display in vases from January to spring, when they ll be blooming outdoors on their own. Keep ajournal ofyour results so you can plan ahead and force for special occasions.
Timing
A plant must go through a dormant period before it can be forced. Timing is everything. Observe the change in the size ofthe buds from December to January the larger and fatterthe buds whenyou cut, the betterthe blossoms will be. If you cut too early, the buds shrivel and drop off. On the other hand, you can t wait too long stay within one and two months before normal blooming time and you ll have good results.
Ifpossible, cut during a January thaw or on a rainy day when the sap is warmed and running. Branches such as pussy willow and witch hazel can be cut mid to late January for blooms in one or twoweeks. InearlyFebruary, cut forsythiaandcornelian cherry. Cut in March, a flowering crab apple will force in three weeks.
Shrubs that produce blossoms beforethe leaves force more readily than those whose leaves appear before the blossoms. Examples are forsythia, redbud, serviceberry andapple. The lateraplantblooms outdoors, the longer it takes to force it indoors andthe closeryou get to its true blooming time the less time it takes to force.
For events such as Canada Blooms, the City ofToronto show garden is planned well in advance. The staffat Edwards Gardens begin inmid-Januaryto forcetreesandrhododendrons by bringing them in to the greenhouse at approximately 18°C. Buds are mistedwith warm
waterto helpthemswell, andplantsarekeptcool so they bloom slowly and give the best show.
How to Force
Once you ve cutbranches, prepare the stem ends by making slits in the ends with a sharp, clean knife. The slits should be two to three inches long. Some florists smash the ends with a hammer, but I prefer to make cuts it s less apt to promote disease, and it s easier to push into floral foam. Peel the bark away from the bottom of the stem. Soak the branch for 24 hours in warm water (20 to 22° C). This helps loosen the bud scale, softens the branch and removes dirt. Thenremovebranches andplace in a container ofcool water. Add some charcoal to keep the water sweet.
You can arrange them at once orwaituntil the buds unfold, but place the container in a cool, dark place such as your basement or garage, as long as it s not too cold. Add fresh water each day and change it if it becomes murky. As they sprout, remove the leaves on branches that produce leaves before flowers to reduce competition for water. Cut about an inch offthe end ofthe branches each week to keep the water clean.
To mimic nature s cycle ofspring, mist branches until they are wet to take the place ofspring rains. Ifyouhaven t already done so, arrange the branches in a vase as the buds break and put it into a bright spot in the sunshine, or in a bright window. If not in the direct sun, the colour in the flowerswill be a lighter shade than normal.
You can force for leaves orcatkins as well as flowers to add variety to a bouquet. Colourful stems such as red-osier dogwood add colour. A combinationofred-osierdogwood, pussy willows and witch hazel is a fabulous arrangement.
IDEAL PLANTS FOR FORCING Flowers:
Shadbush (4dmelanchier canadensis) - white flowers. For bloom in mid-March, cut in late February. Blooms last one week (native).
Red or swamp maple (4cer rubrum) - pink to red blossoms appear before leaves in April. Blooms in aweek ifcut in mid-March (native).
Horse Chestnut (desculus) - its sticky buds develop into showyclusters offlowers outdoors inlate May. Cut inmid-March, store 5-6 weeks. Blooms last about 2 weeks.
Redbud (Cercis canadensis) - rosy-pink flowersappearinmid-Maybefore leaves. Cutinearly March, it will force in 2-3 weeks (native).
Flowering quince (Chaenomeles or Cydonia) - white, pink, red or orange flowers in May. Blossoms open about the same time as leaves. Cut inearly Februaryforbloom in 4to 5 weeks. Or cut in mid-March for bloom in 2 weeks.
Flowering dogwood (Cornusflorida) - white blooms in late April, early May. Cut in midMarch forbloom in two to fourweeks (native). Cornelian cherry (Cornus mas) - yellow blooms in early May. Cut in late January for blooms in mid-to late February. Blooms last a week (native) .
Hawthorn (Crataegus) - white flowers in May. Cutmid-Marchforbloom intwo tothree weeks. Blooms last a week (native).
Daphne (Daphne mezereum) - fragrant pinkish-mauveflowers appearbefore leaves in early April. Cut in late January forbloom in two to three weeks. Lasts a week.
Forsythia - cut in early January and in three weeks bright yellow flowers appear prior to leaves. Canalsobe cut inmid-March forflowers in a week. Blooms last about a week.
Witch hazel (Hamamelis mollis) - yellow flowers in January. For blooms in December or January, cut one week before the natural blooming time. Lasts about a week.
Mountain laurel (Kalmia latifolia) - blooms late Mayto early June; pink orwhite flowers. For late April bloom, cut in mid-March. Blooms last about a week.
Kerria (Kerriajaponica) - single or double
The Best reasons to shop
golden yellow flowers appear with lime-green foliagein late May. Cut inearlyMarch forflowers in 2 2 weeks to last one week.
Beautybush (Kolkwitzia) - bell-shaped light pink to lavender blossoms in June. Cut in midMarch for flowering in five to seven weeks. Honeysuckle (Lonicera) - white, pink or red blooms appear in May. Cut branches in early March. Forces in one to two weeks and lasts a week.
Magnolia - flowers in late April, early May. The blossoms open at the same time orjust beforetheleaves. Branches cutinearlyMarchforce in four to five weeks and last three to four days.
Apple (Malus) - white to pinkblossoms in May.
Best results ifbranches are cut when buds are well developed and ready to burst, usually in early May. Or try cutting in-mid-March for bloom in four to five weeks, lasting a week. Flowering crab takes less time to force, usually two to four weeks.
Mock orange (Philadelphus) - fragrant white blooms in May. Cut in mid-March and force fourto fiveweeks. Single flowers«don t last as long as doubles.',
Flowering almend (Prunus friloba) - pink flower clusters appear in lateApril, early May. CutinJanuaryforforcing inthreeto fourweeks. Lasts about a week (native). /~
Flowering cherry (Prunm serrulata) - clusters of pink flowessinlate April, early May. CutinJanuaryforbloominthree:tofour weeks. Lasts about aweek:-
Common pear(Pvruv communis)-small white flowers appear in-lafeApril/early May. Cutin late January orearlyFebruary forbloomin four to five weeks. When cut in mid-March, forces in two to three weeks. Lasts two weeks.
Sumac (Rhus aromatica) - yellowish flowers inclustered spikes appearbefore leaves in May. Cut in mid-March and force two weeks. Flowers last five to eight days (native).
Floweringcurrant (Ribesodoratum) - fragrant, yellow flowers bloom in May. Cut inearly April when buds are breaking. Forces in a week to 10 days and lasts about a week.
Bridalwreath spirea (Spiraea x vanhouttei) -
sprays of white flower h@ads appear in early June. Cut in mid-Ma el for/bloomsin four weeks that last-about a-week.
Lilac (Syringa) - frqgta,n clust@rsqfflowersin late May. It s dlfhcul Beuer success is achieved iflongbran% are cu;txclose to the time lilacs naturally 'flower. Ifcutting earlier, forcing usually talfe§ four'tofive weeks.
cmtm) gorgeous, mf mld-May, Cut
J , youngIeaves are soft and velvety,branch, xe slender. Catkins appear before [éavesin:gudMay. Cutin early March and store two @ fourWeeks. Catkins are long lasting (natlv éi)
Pl Catkins ¥
Alder (Alnus) - Catkins showin advance ofthe foliagein early April. Cut branchesin January for sprouting in two or three weeks (native).
Birch (Betula) - delicatepale-green foliage and catkins appear in mid-April. Cut in early February and store two to fourweeks. Foliage lasts about a week (native).
Filbert or Harry Lauder s walking stick (Corylus avellana Contorta ) -droopingyellow catkins in late winter or early spring. Cut in January for catkins in one to two weeks.
Poplar (Populus) - catkins appearinApril. Cut in late January and store three weeks. Ifcut in mid-March, will force in a week (native).
Willow (Salix) - all willows force well and present interesting catkins.
Pussy willow (Salix discolor) is the most common variety. In January, force in water and remove when they have developed. Transfer to a dry vase to prevent roots or leaves fromforming. Ifyou don t want the long, yellow, pollen-filled catkins to form, removethe scalearoundthe buds.
Giant pussy willow (Salix acutifolia) has silvery catkins up to three inches long.
Sheila Smith is a local horticulturist.
e { Ihe Trellis Shop
The Civic Garden Centre atEdwards Gardens (416) 397-1357
Gifts for Gardeners FlowerArranging Supplies
Seasonal Products
Digging on the Net
Surfing the garden Web sites is almost as much fun as being out in the garden by Jean McCluskey and Dorothy Gebert, library volunteers.
Anxiousto startgardeningbutthe ground is still frozen hard? While away those long hours by surfingthe gardening sites onthe Web. The following list, current as ofthe end of 1998, ranges from the Royal Horticultural Society in the UKto the Composting Council ofCanada. And ifthis list isn t enough for you, many ofthese sites include links to even more garden-related resources on the Internet.
Happy Web-gardening!
Blooms ofBressingham www.bobna.com
Commercial sitewithinformationonwhat snew at Bressingham, a UKbreeding house, where to buy their plants and a plant list.
Composting Council of Canada
Www.compost.org
Gives alistofevents, publications available and answers to the most frequently asked questions about composting, in English and French.
Cyndi s Catalog of Gardening Catalogs
A list ofseed and plant catalogues you can write for.
City Farmer www.cityfarmer.org
A non-profit society that promotes urban food production and environmental conservation, based in Vancouver.
Garden Escape www.garden.com
Commercial site with information on magazines, shopping, and designing a garden.
Garden Gate e £l
A non-commercial source that offers gardeners and nature lovers a selection of links to
horticultural sites around the world. Provides a Quick Search with five search engines.
Garden Net trine.com/GardenNet
Commercial site with information on accessories, trips, books, etc.
Garden Web www.gardenweb.com/
Lists gardening events (including CGC), gardeningtips, aglossaryofbotanicalterms, weather and lots ofinteresting information.
Gardeners ofthe Golden Horseshoe www.interlog.com/~ggh/ggh.htm
Gardening events in southwestern Ontario.
The Horticultural Web www.horticulture.com
Mainly American sources, but rather a mixed bag ofinformation, such as a list ofhorticultural magazines andbotanic gardens, plus items on pumpkins, African violets, edible flowers, etc.
I Can Garden www.ICanGarden.com
Canada s largestInternetgardeningresource site with lots ofinformation on catalogues, events, books, articlesbywell-knownCanadiangardeners, etc.
Internet Links " vk el
Links to Heritage Perennials, Weekend Gardener, Urban Gardener, etc.
Master Gardener Data Base
A Texas-based site with the information divided into general categories. Easy to use.
National Gardening Association www.garden.org
A large, nonprofit American organization. Regions can be selected, so the northeast region may be ofsome help to Ontario gardeners.
Plant World www.plantworld.com
A commercial site with information on exhibitions, gardens, horticulture and books. The garden site, for example, enables you to visit gardens around the world.
Royal Horticultural Society et www.rhs.org.uk
All about the RHS membership, publications, education, plants, etc. Useful for visitors to the UK who need information about the Chelsea, Hampton Court and other shows.
The Virtual Garden www.pathfinder.com/vg
Features includetheArmchairGardener, Weekend Projects, Gardener s World, Garden Guru and a commercial site, Marketplace.
Virtual Library Gardening www.gardenweb.com/vl
General and international sites, horticultural sites, plant databases, botanic gardens and museums, societies andassociations, directories of nurseries and catalogues, etc.
Weekend Gardener www.chesnut-sw.com/webpicks.htm
Gardening dictionaries and encyclopedias, radio and TV gardening shows, catalogues, selected gardens etc.
The World ofGardening on Line www.digthenet.com
Be selective -- information in a few of the many sites had not been updated since 1996 or 1997.
Source for Web sites: Margaret Bennet-Alder s The Toronto Gardeners Journal & Sourcebook 1999.
6th
Annual (anadian Garden & Flower Show
THESHOWIORGARDINERS
Open the gardening season at Success with Gardening, the must-see show for practical, hands-on gardening!
Over 200 friendly exhibitors share their knowledge and experience with you. Plus thousands of plant and gardening products are on display to see and buy bulbs, seeds, hard-to-find plants, tools, plant care products, garden decor, accessories, gifts, books, magazines and much more!
AlsoFreewithAdmission:
@ Seminars presented by Plant & Garden Magazine: Headline speakers. Helpful hints! Great advice! PLANTCIGARDEN
® Display gardens: Inspiring ideas!
@Treasured Blossoms: OHA s Plant and Flower Arranging Competition.
@ Visit the family Garden Centre, hosted by Pathway to Perennials.
April 1-4, 1999
TheInternational Centre, 6900AirportRoad
Thursday 10 am-9 pm, Friday 10 am-6 pm Saturday 10 am-9 pm, Sunday 10 am-6 pm
Adults: $9 Seniors & Students: $7
Children (6-12): $4 (5 & under free)
PLENTY OF FREE PARKING
For information: (905) 881-5708 www.oak.net/shobiz
Marilyn Westlake s photographs of Edward James surreal sculpture garden in Mexico are on display until March 31 at Toronto Image Works gallery, 80 Spadina Ave., Ste. 207, www.artfocus.com/mcad.html. Ten percent of sales made through the Web site will be donated to the Teaching Garden at Edwards Gardens. Marilyn Westlake was the featured speaker at the Edwards Lecture in January.
Petals, Stems
& Leaves
Grubs in the lawn
The grub is the larvae stage ofa variety ofbeetles. Japanese beetle, European chafer and Junebug are the mostcommonthree. Europeanchafer istheworst one for destroying lawns in our area.
Damage and Identification
Grubs feed on grass roots. The key symptom ofgrub invasion is irregular dead patches that lift up easily iftugged on. These patches have had the roots severed and there is nothing to anchor the sod. Or you may findburrowed ortorn-up areas moles, skunks and raccoons love grubs and destroy grass in their search for them. The grub is C shaped with a brown head, white body and six legs on its upper half.
Grubs were imported fromthe Orientintheiradult stageandfirstappearedinNorthAmericainNewYork.
Life Cycle
The grub s life cycle is very simple: it feeds on grass roots from mid-March to mid-May, and then develops into its pupal form. The adult beetle emerges in late June, mates over a two-week span and retreats back into soil to lay its eggs.
The grubs hatch and begin to feed in late July to August. They burrow below the frost line in fall and stop feeding, but ifthere is a thaw they resume feeding even in winter. Grubs continue to feed in spring, constantly growing larger.
Control
Mid-August to September is the best time to apply chemical control because the larvae have just hatched. A certain percentage of chemical must be ingestedinrelationtobodymass, therefore the smaller the grub, the less is needed to kill it. Grubs don t die with their first taste it can take two to three weeks. Inspring, applychemicalsmid-MarchtomidApril, while larvae are feeding ravenously.
Excessive thatch build-up absorbs and holds the chemical, ratherthanallowing ittopenetratethe grub zone. Hot, dry conditions in late July or early Augustpreventsuccessful mortality ratesbecause grubs move to cooler soil below, and they don t feed. Soak your lawn before application to allow the chemical to be dispersed throughout the soil more easily. Watering-in after application is also necessary or the chemical will remain on grass blades.
Ifyou are spraying in the fall, a spring treatment may also be necessary.
Information courtesy ofLandscape Ontario Garden Centre Commodity Group
THE EDWARDS LECTURE SERIES
sreaker: JOSEF HALDA, BOTANIST
pate: WEDNESDAY, MARCH 24, 7:30 P.M.
Toric: THE GENUS PAEONIA
Well-known alpinist and botanist JosefHalda has spent 35 years collecting seed and photographing countless plants in southern Siberia, central Asia, Manchuria, the Caucasus and, more recently, China, Lesotho and Patagonia. In this lecture he discusses the genus Paeonia and shows some of his superb slides, taken under often perilous conditions in the majestic Caucasus Mountains and China.
Halda is the authorofseveral books, including The Genus Gentiana, the first full acount ofthe species, and has built dozens ofrock gardens in North America and many in Europe, specializing in the crevice garden.
Afterhis lecture Haldawill sign copies ofhis reference work, and seeds ofsome wild plants will be available.
sreaker: DUGALD
CAMERON, OWNER, GARDENIMPORT INC.
pate: TUESDAY, APRIL 27, 7:30 P.M.
Toric: NEW AND NEGLECTED PERENNIALS
Plant collectors and gardeners on the hunt for something new for their beds and borders will love Dugald Cameron s talk. He ll present a personal tour of new and upcoming plants and bulbs available in 1999 and the years to come, andtake a look atthe old standbys we ve tended to ignore in recent years.
As owner ofGardenimport, Dugald has a wealth ofknowledge ofwhat s new and different on the market, and he s also an entertaining and humorous speaker. His talk will be well illustrated with slides.
Lectures arefreefor members. Non-memberspay $4 at the door.
FREEparking and refreshments
Notice of Meeting....
The April 27 lecture begins with the Annual General Meeting of the Civic Garden Centre. If you are a member, please plan to join the meeting to approve the slate of new Board members and be brought up to date on CGC activities.
A spring crop worth reading
Look for these exciting new books by local authors in the CGC library and Trellis Shop.
The New City Gardener, by Judith Adam (Firefly Books Ltd., 1999; $24.95)
Judith, who has gardened in New York, Rome and Toronto, is well known to CGC members who ve taken her courses. Her new book is packed with solutions for the urban garden, from design to pruning, feeding and achieving continuous bloom.
Canadian Garden Design, by Mark Cullen (Penguin Books, 1999; $40)
A popular CFRB radio phone-in host and speaker at garden shows and clubs, Mark is also a prolific writer. His latest book offers ideas and advice on designing a garden from scratch or renovating an older one.
AmazingAnnuals, by Marjorie Mason-Hogue
(Firefly Books Ltd., 1999; $24.95)
Marjorie s Uxbridge nursery specializes in unusual plants and is a favorite among Toronto gardeners and mail ordercustomers. Herbook is aguideto more than 300 containerand garden plants, including the newest annuals and tenderperennials, with chapters on culture and propagation.
100 Easy-To-Grow Native Plantsfor Canadian Gardens
(Random House ofCanada, 1999; $26.95)
Authorand lecturerLorraine Johnson, a formermember ofthe CGC boardofdirectors, has a keen interest in natural gardening and environmental issues. Hernewest book is a great source ofideas for gardeners looking for native species or inexpensive, easy-to-maintain plants.
The Botanical Volunteer
Every April, wejoin with groups across Canada to celebrate National Volunteer Week (April 1824). Atthe CGC, this is always a special week, affording us an opportunity to celebrate the work ofour 350 volunteers.
To our delight, this year s motifis enthusiastically botanical. The shasta daisy is the national flower ofvolunteering (as a symbol ofrebirth, beauty and tenacity), and the theme is spreading the seeds ofvolunteerism. To those ofus for whom spreading seeds is almost a religious experience, the imagery is potent!
Is it possible that Volunteer Canada has been infiltrated by a wily and determined coterie of gardeners? That, as Martha would say, could only be a good thing.
Carol Gardner
GARDENING FOR EVERYONE!
Membership at The Civic Garden Centre -- Reap the Rewards!
Join The Civic Garden Centre and learn more aboutgardening and horticulture, Canada s favourite pastime. Members cultivate theirgardening knowledge through a wide variety ofservices and programs offered by the CGC.
>33RS Exclusive borrowing privileges from one of Canada s finest horticultural libraries
Gardening and horticultural courses and workshops for adults, children & families
e%
The Trellis Shop, specializing in gardening books, supplies and unique gifts
Discounts and advance notice of events % Trellis, the CGC s newsletter Master Gardeners free info line
Edwards Lecture Series
The Teaching Garden in Edwards Gardens
Specialized garden tours
2*
» Helen Flegg Memorial Lecture » CGC plant sales
» Volunteer opportunities
Wheelchair accessible % And much more!
Your membership helps support communityprojects in Toronto. Call (416) 397-1340 tojoin the CGC.
Membership Application
Membership Categories: (Please indicate selection)
O Family/Dual: $40. Q Single: $30.
Two adults within the same household and their Individual children under 18 years. Two membership cards membership. issued, please indicate first and second card name.
Please select all that apply: QO New Membership Q Gift Membership for: O Renewal Membership # Total Amount Enclosed:
0 Visa O MasterCard O Cheque (payable to: The Civic Garden Centre) NAME CARHOLDER #2
ADDRESS
The Civic Garden Centre Charitable Registration # 11922 7486 RR0001 at Edwards Gardens
777 Lawrence Avenue East, North York, Ontario M3C 1P2
Tel: (416) 397-1340 Fax: (416) 397-1354 Email: cgc1@idirect.com
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New Perennial Plants
By Dugald Cameron
New is a relative term when it comes to plants. A plant may have been happily growing in the wild for many years in some remote pasture only to be discovered by a keen-eyed gardener and cultivated for the home garden.
New certainly applies to plants that are the result of a lifetime ofbreeding and selection. This year there are outstanding examples ofeach kind.
Helleborus Royal Heritage Strain
Once you re bitten by the hellebore bug you want to grow more. For years gardeners have cherished the plants created by the late Helen Ballard of Mathon, in Worcester. Her work has been continued by John Elsley, horticultural director ofPark Wayside in South Carolina; after 12 years ofcareful selection he s produced Helleborus X hybridus Royal Heritage Strain.
There s no better herald to spring than the sight ofa clump ofthese plants, with their elegantly nodding flowers framed by striking hand-shaped foliage. The large, well-rounded flowers come in shades ofcream, pink, red and burgundy. Many are elegantly spotted. Reds dominate the mixture, but every colour is outstanding. Given a rich, moist soil Royal Heritage grows into a strong clump 45 cm. tall by 60 cm. wide. [ understand that John Elsley soon hopes to offer the plants in named colours and they will be named after the castles ofthe Royal Family.
Hardy to Zone 4, these plants grow happily in almost any soil and are best in partial to full shade. They make a great underplanting for shrubs, where theirbold foliage looks wonderful long after the flowers have faded.
Lobelia Summit Snow
Lovers ofthe many lobelia introduced over the past few years will be thrilled by Lobelia cardinalis Summit Snow , a Nova Scotia introduction.
Those of us who have hiked the lakes and wetlands of Ontario have admired the tall, scarlet spires of our native Lobelia cardinalis. Leo Smit ofSummit Nursery in Mt. Uniacke, N.S., is an observant nurseryman. He noticed a single white plume in an ocean of scarlet lobelia, and after several trial seasons at his nursery realized he d discovered a wonderful plant. Summit Snow not only has the purest ofwhite flowers, it has more than its scarlet siblings have and it s a strong plant that flowers for several weeks in late summer. It gives ashow-stoppingperformance. At60-120 cm. tall, Summit Snow is a good background plant in a border, and its preference forrich, moist soil and afternoon shade also makes it a good subject for waterside plantings.
Modern tissue culture has made it possible to reproduce the original plant quickly and introduce it to Canadian gardeners this year.
Dugald Cameron is a member of the board of The Civic Lobelia Summit Snow Garden Centre and owner ofGardenimport Inc. in Thornhill.
Garden shows herald spring
They offer everything a gardener s heart desires, from inspiration and information to great stuff to buy
Next to actually working in the garden, what we love most is going to garden shows. Especially during the wintry blasts ofMarch. Here s a handful ofshows you won t want to miss.
Canada Blooms, March 10-14.
Even though it s only in its third year, this show, superbly organized by Landscape Ontario and The Garden Club ofToronto, is rivallingthe reputations ofthe Philadelphiaand Cincinnati shows. You really need two days to see it all. The big feature is the nearly 40 spectacular show gardens, but running a close second is the roster of speakers from Britain s John Brookes and American BarbaraDamroschto well-known Canadians like DavidTarrant, Marjorie Harris andDes Kennedy. Demonstrations ofgardening techniques and flower arranging, cooking demos, celebrity flower arranging and, of course, an extensive marketplace, also pull in the crowds. There s a daycare centre, a bistro, snack bars and pub, plus live music in the evenings. Metro Toronto Convention Centre South, 222 Bremner Blvd. Adults: $12; seniors $10; two-day pass $18.
International Home & Garden Show, March 18-21.
It celebrates its 10th anniversary this year with a lineup of seminars, features and exhibits that focuses onthe home and backyard living as well as gardening. You can pick up ideas and get a sniff ofspring from the several feature gardens by local design firms, and tips on gardening from Master Gardeners at the Showtime Garden Theatre. The New Home Dream Street offers ideas on home fronts, and a not-to-be-missed Sun Dome. International Centre, 6900 Airport Rd. Adults $9; seniors $6. Includes free parking anddaycare,plus
readmission for another day.
Success with Gardening, April 1-4. Ifyou ve gotgarden shoppingonyourmind, this is agreatshow. Booths here sell everything from exotic indoor plants and perennials you might evenbe ableto plantoutsideright away, depending on the weather, to water garden equipment, fountains, seeds, furniture, landscape services, greenhouses, birdhouses, you name it. Marjorie Mason-Hogue is displaying another wonderful
perennial garden this year, as are other nurseries. Also: exhibits and information from the Ontario Horticultural Association, and a lineup ofspeakers. Pathway to Perennials Family Garden Centre sounds terrific. It boasts a lemonade stand, a potting shed, videos on gardening techniques, a Victorian swing in the Simple Pleasures garden, hands-on projects for kids and adults, a worm farm and more. International Centre, 6900 Airport Rd. Adults $9; seniors $7. Free parking.
NEEDED
Volunteers to sssist with activities at The Civic Garden Centre at Edwards Gardens
Come out and have a great time, meet new people and help make the CGC's events a success.
The Civic Garden Centre currently needs volunteers to assist with the Teaching Garden, Garden Tours, The Trellis Shop, special events, seasonal plant sales, administrative and library assistance, and much more.
There s an opportunity for everyone! Call 416-397-4145 today to find out how you can help.
SPRING COURSES 1999
Registration Information
The start date for registration for Spring 1999 courses is Monday, April 5, 1999. All courses have a registration deadline, after which no more registrations will be accepted. Register earlyfor best selection.
Full payment must accompany each registration. You may register bytelephone at (416) 397-1340 or fax to (416) 3971354, accompanied with payment by cheque, Visa or MasterCard. You may also register in person, or by mailing a completed registration form, together with payment, to The Civic Garden Centre: Course Office, 777 Lawrence Avenue East, North York, Ontario M3C 1P2. Cash payments made in person will also be accepted. NSF cheques are subject to a $20 surcharge.
Registrations are on a first-come,
Where to find us...
first-served basis. There will be a waiting list for those who wish to enroll in courses that have been filled.
Cancellation, Notification and Refunds: e No confirmation of registration will be sent out. Please make note ofthe courses for which you have registered.
Courses may be cancelled one week prior to the start date due to lack of enrollment, in which case course fees will be refunded in full. Registrants will be notified by telephone between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Please supply telephone numbers where you can be reached directly or by recorded message.
Course fees are not transferable between students or courses.
No Refunds will be given for registration cancellations after the registration deadline.
777 Lawrence Avenue East North York, Ontario M3C 1P2
Tel: (416) 397 -1340 Fax: (416) 397 -1354
Email: cgc1@idirect.com Eglinton.
Gardening Courses
Bulbs for the Garden
Instructor: Leslie Saffrey
Under their plain brown wrappers, bulbs conceal a surprising diversity of flowers. From spring snowdrops and colourful tulips, through summer lilies and tenderdahlias, to fall-flowering colchicums and cyclamens, there are bulbs for every season. Come explore the range of bulbs available, learn how to use them in your landscape, and get maintenance tips for continuous bloom yearafteryear. Checkoutthe CGC's Trellis Shop for our bulb selection. This course is offered on two dates. Please specify which date you want when registering.
Thursday, April 15, 1999
10:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Registration Deadline: (BLBO1) April 8, 1999
Wednesday, April 21, 1999
7:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
Registration Deadline: April 14, 1999
Fee: Members: $16 Non-Members: $21 (BLB02)
Lessons from the Japanese Garden I
Instructor: Dennis Winters
LJGO3
The gardens of Japan are revered for their ability to help clear, heal and awaken the most subtle aspects of the mind and heart. They are sacred places where one finds a touch of magic and light. Enjoy a slide presentation on thefascinating temple gardens of Kyoto. Discover the Japanese art ofdesign, including the guidelines and principles of feng-shui. This course can be taken on its own, and is recommended as an introduction to part two. Bring a notebook and pencil for quick sketching and note-taking.
Thursday, April 22, 1999
7:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
Registration Deadline: April 15, 1999
Fee: Part | or Il: Members: $16
Non-Members: $21 (Both parts: $30 / $35)
Lessons from the Japanese Garden 11
Instructor: Dennis Winters LJGO04
Japanese gardens celebrate life and harmony with nature. Learn to apply the design principles ofJapanese gardens to create your own special place for physical, mental and spiritual renewal. Topics include design approaches, construction techniques, plants and sources of related materials. Examples are illustrated with slides of Dennis designs for gardens here in Toronto, inspired bythe gardens ofKyoto. Bring a notebookand pencil forquicksketching and note-taking.
Thursday, April 29, 1999
7:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
Registration Deadline: April 22, 1999
Part | or Il:Members: $16
Non-Members: $21 (Both parts: $30 / $35)
Getting Started in Orchids I
Instructor: Claudio Rossi ORCO05 Discover the exotic world of orchids, comprising some 125,000 species in the wild. Learn how easy it is to grow beautiful orchids in*your home. Topics include your first orchids, schedules forfertilization, watering and resting, potting media and pests and diseases. Be inspired by this slide presentation/lecture exploring the fascinating Orchidaceae family of plants. Whether low lightorbrightlight, you ll knowwhich orchids to grow and how to grow them.
Monday, April 26, 1999
7:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
Registration Deadline: April 19, 1999
Fee: Part | or Il: Members: $16
Non-Members: $21 (Both parts: $30 / $35)
(Course duration isfor one day/evening unless otherwise indicated.)
Gardening Courses
Getting Started in Orchids 1T
Instructor: Claudio Rossi ORCO06
Bring your orchid-related questions and learn how easily this fascinating family of plants can be grown and enjoyed in your home. Explore species orchids; learn the fundamentals of orchid propagation; and get tips on how to manage an orchid collection. The slide presentation/lecture will be followed by a demonstration on potting new plants, repotting older plants, and the advantages and disadvantages of various potting media.
Monday, May 3, 1999
7:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
Registration Deadline: April 26, 1999
Fee: Part | or Il: Members: $16
Non-Members: $21 (Both parts: $30 / $35)
All About Lawns
Instructor: Anna Leggatt LWNO7
All you need to know about planting a new lawn or reviving a tired one. Guidelines for selecting the best grass for your lawn, installing a lawn from seed, sod, sprigs or plugs. Instructions for watering, mowing, fertilizing, aerating and dethatching. Best remedies for weeds, pests, diseases and other problems.
Wednesday, April 28, 1999
7:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
Registration Deadline: April 21, 1999
Fee: Members: $16 Non-Members: $21
Gardening in Cottage Country
Instructor: Marion Jarvie COTO08
Easy solutions and landscape hints for weekend gardeners with cottage properties. Come explore gardening possibilities for those hard-to-growareas under hotsun, dry shade, difficult slopes, sandy or rocky soil, and windy conditions. A discussion ofplant selection and placement will help your cottage garden thrive through summerdrought
and winter freeze.
Thursday, April 29, 1999
1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Registration Deadline: April 22, 1999
Fee: Members: $16 Non-Members: $21
Making the Most ofShade
Instructor: Anna Leggatt SHDO09
Gardening in the shade is not difficult, it's just different. This course will cover annuals, perennials and shrubs that thrive under shady conditions. Learn all about the different types of shade, and design a garden that will flourish in low light.
Wednesday, May 5, 1999
7:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
Registration Deadline: April 28, 1999
Fee: Members: $16 Non-Members: $21
Landscaping with Roses
Instructor: Marion Jarvie
Discover the splendid varieties of roses available today, from antique to modern shrubs, climbers and miniatures. Gain practical advice on selecting roses foryour garden, looking at soil, design, colour, texture and fragrance. Learn planting and pruning methods to bring out the best blooms. Take home helpful gardening tips for maintenance throughout the season. This course is offered on two dates. Please specify which date you want when registering.
Monday, May 10, 1999 (ROS10) 7:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
Registration Deadline: May 3, 1999
Fee: Members: $16 Non-Members: $21
Tuesday, May 18, 1999 (ROS11) 10:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Registration Deadline: May 11, 1999
Fee: Members: $16 Non-Members: $21
Gardening Courses
Plantscaping Your Garden
Instructor: Marion Jarvie PLS12
Get ready for the gardening season by taking a critical look at your garden and planning forsuccess. Organize yourgarden into various planting zones, depending on light, drainage, etc. Learn what to plant in these various areas for maximum effect in terms ofcolour, shape and texture. By the end of the course you will be ready to visit your favourite nurseries, shopping list in hand.
Wednesdays
7:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
(Course Duration: 6 weeks)
Dates: May 12, 19, 26, June 2, 9 & 16, 1999
Registration Deadline: May 5, 1999
Fee: Members: $85 Non-Members: $90
Designing with Annuals
Instructor: Leslie Saffrey ANL13
There has never been a more exciting time to garden in Ontario. This is your opportunityto get acquainted with colourful newvarieties. Learn how to choose and grow annual flowering plants, including tips on plant combinations for borders, beds and containers. As well, pick up tips and suggestions on integrating annual plants into your garden landscape. You'll be all set to prepare your shopping list for the CGC s Annuals Sale, May 20 to 25, 1999.
Monday, May 17, 1999
7:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
Registration Deadline: May 10, 1999
Fee: Members: $16 Non-Members: $21
Pruning and Maintenance of Shrubs and Trees
Instructor: Jim Lounsbery STG14
Back by demand! Pruning is always a daunting task but, done correctly, can rejuvenateyourshrubs and trees and helpthem to thrive. Jim Lounsbery will demonstrate the correct method. Learn how to care for small trees, flowering shrubs, evergreens and other woody garden plants, as well as proper fertilization and cultural requirements.
Thursday, May 20, 1999
7:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
Registration Deadline: May 13, 1999
Fee: Members: $16 Non-Members: $21
Architectural Elements in the Garden Instructor:
Marion Jarvie
There is much more to an outstanding garden than plants and their placement. Pots and planters, trellis and arbors, baths and statuary have been part of landscape design for hundreds of years. Explore the range of architectural ornaments for your garden. Find out the advantages and disadvantages of stone, lead, cement, and learn which materials will bestwithstand the rigors ofCanada s weather. Plus, discover plants that are themselves architectural elements. This course is offered on two dates. Please specify which date you want when registering.
Monday, May 31, 1999 (ARC15) 7:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
Registration Deadline: May 20, 1999
Fee: Members: $16 Non-Members: $21
Tuesday, June 8, 1999 (ARC 16) 10:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Registration Deadline: June 1, 1999
Fee: Members: $16 Non-Members: $21
Gardening Courses
New Perennials for 1999
Instructor: Valerie Ward PER17
This year brings a dramatic increase in exciting new perennial varieties. See them here first and see them live: Japanese toad lilies, hellebores, corydalis and much more. Learn about these new plants, their strengths and weaknesses, and suggestions for planting. For sun or shade, find out what s new in perennials.
Tuesday, June 22, 1999
7:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
Registration Deadline: June 15, 1999
Fee: Members: $16 Non-Members: $21
Hiking for Edible Wilds in the Rouge Valley
Guides: Rob andLaurieStimpson EDW19
Discover what nature has to offer in terms of edible plants and medicines as you take a spring walk through the Rouge Valley, close to Sheppard Avenue East and Highway 2, Scarborough. Map will be handed out at The Civic Garden Centre on day of hike. This three-hour hike will teach you to identify such plants as wild leeks, fiddleheads, wild ginger and hemlock (this coniferous tree makes great tea). At the end of the walk you will have a chance to sample some teas and other items picked along the walk. Meet at the CGC s Main Entrance at 12:00 noon to carpool. Dress for the weather. Please note, hike is in the Rouge Valley not Edwards Gardens.
Saturday, June 12, 1999
12:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Registration Deadline: June 3, 1999
Fee: Members: $16 Non-Members: $21
Spouses add $10
- Creative Container Gardening - with Perennials
Instructor: Valerie Ward CNT18
Move beyond petunias and pansies to discoverthe range of perennials that do well in container gardens. Topics include container types, soil preparation, plant selection, presentation and maintenance. Pick up some great gardening ideas and watch as we create a custom-sculpted container.
Tuesday, June 29, 1999
7:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
Registration Deadline: June 22, 1999 Fee: Members: $16 Non-Members: $21
Botanical Arts & Crafts Courses
Spring in Bloom Photography Workshop
Instructor: Rob Stimpson PHT20
This one-day workshop will help you compose the perfect shot to capture the essence of spring on film. Join professional nature photographer Rob Stimpson as he shares techniques and helpful hints in the art of composing beautiful landscape and close-up flower photographs. Using examples from his own work, Rob will discuss film, filters, lenses, lighting and more. Then head outdoors to photograph the bloom season of flowers and trees in Edwards Gardens. Bring your photographic equipment and dress forthe weather. All levels of expertise welcome.
Saturday, April 24, 1999
12:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Registration Deadline: April 15, 1999
Fee: Members: $16 Non-Members: $21
Botanical Arts & Crafts Courses
Watercolour Painting:
Beginner and Continuing
Instructor: Ita Pechenick WCP21
Discoverthe versatilityofwatercolourpainting from basics to more advanced techniques. This course will cover materials, colour theory and composition. Through demonstration, practise and individual assistance, you will develop a range of skills using washes, wet and dry paper techniques, negative painting, glazing and experimenting with light and shadow. Bring watercolour paper, pencil and any brushes and watercolour paints you have. A materials list will be provided at the first class.
Mondays
1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
(Course Duration: 8 weeks)
Dates: May 3, 10, 17, 31, and June 7, 14, 21 and 28, 1999
Registration Deadline: April 26, 1999
Fee: Members: $130 Non-Members: $150
Willow Weaving
Instructor: Barbara Guy Long ~ WWG22
Willowwattle weaving has many useful applications in the garden, from fencing and edging to arbors and trellises. Learn the different applications ofwillow, how to identify it, when and how to harvest, followed by a willow weaving demonstration. Then construct your own simple structure, such as a trellis, to take home with you. Bring with you loppers, clippers, rasp, hammer, gloves and lunch. Material fee ($30) is included in course fee.
Tuesday, May 4, 1999
9:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Registration Deadline: April 27, 1999
Fee: Members: $75 Non-Members: $90
Plant Portraits: An Introduction to Botanical Drawing
Instructor: MargitKoritar PTP23
Turn to the botanical realm for instruction and inspiration. Classes will focus on understanding the characteristics of plants and developing drawing skills (line, proportion, perspective, light and shadow). Students work indoors and in Edwards Gardens. Start with pencil exercises then experiment in your choice of watercolour, coloured pencil, charcoal and/or pastels. Progress at your own level with individual assistance. Bring pencil and paper to the first class, where a list of materials will be provided.
Wednesdays
9:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
(Course Duration: 6 weeks)
Dates: May 5, 12, 19, 26, June 2 & 9, 1999
Registration Deadline: April 28, 1999
Fee: Members: $105 Non-Members: $125
Acrylic and Oil: Beginner and Intermediate
Instructor: Shahla Andrews AOL24
A step-by-step painting course on the use of acrylic and oil. Through lecture, demonstration, individual attention and practise, learn about drawing, mixing colours and composition. Students will be encouraged to develop their own individual style as they paint still lifes, landscapes and portraits. This course is suitableforbeginners aswell as those with some experience. Bring paper, pencil and any brushes and paints you have. A materials list will be provided at the first class.
Thursdays
10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
(Course Duration: 7 weeks)
Dates: May 13, 20, 27, June 3, 10, 17 and 24, 1999
(Course duration isfor one day/evening unless otherwise indicated.)
Registration Deadline: May 6, 1999
Fee: Members: $105 Non-Members: $125
Botanical Arts & Crafts Courses
Floral Designs for the Home
Instructor: Shirley Binns FLD25 Bring colour into your home with flowers. Through instruction and practise, learn the basic elements and principles of design, how to condition plant material and techniques to create long-lasting floral arrangements. In each session students will make a design for which they must supply their own plant material. Bring 5-7 fresh flowers and leaves, 2-4 interestingly shaped branches, sharp pruners, pinholder or oasis, floral wire and tape, a container ofyour choice, and a box to transport your arrangement home. Somefloral materials are available for purchase atthe CGC s Trellis Shop.
Tuesdays 7:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
(Course Duration: 4 weeks)
Dates: May 25, June 1, 8 and 15, 1999
Registration Deadline: May 18, 1999
Fee: Members: $65 Non-Members: $80
Botanical Illustration in Watercolour (Advanced)
Instructor: Pamela Stagg BIW26
An intensive workshop on the techniques of painting highly detailed, realistic portraits of botanical subjects. Demonstrations and exercises will be combined with painting practice, individual instruction and feedback. Advanced watercolour skills are required; experience in botanical painting, while welcome, is not required. Materials list will be made available before the first class. Please bring lunch to each session. (Maximum registration: 15).
Saturday - Wednesday 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
(Course Duration: 5 days)
Dates: July 17, 18, 19, 20 and 21, 1999
Registration Deadline: July 8, 1999
Fee: Members: $180 Non-Members: $200
The Civic Garden Centre s Instructors
Shahla Andrews
has had over 15 years ofexperience in fine arts drawing and painting. She is a graduate ofthe Ontario College ofArt, having also studied at Central Technical Art School. She teaches both adults and children the techniques of oil painting, watercolour and mono print. Shahla s work reflects her love of nature, and she enjoys challenging herself by exploring a variety of subjects and experimenting with vivid colours. She has exhibited several shows, including the Link Gallery at The Civic Garden Centre. Recently, Shahla has been involved with painting commission pieces.
Shirley Binns has been an instructorat The Civic Garden Centre since 1994. She studied Ikenobo Ikebana in Japan and flower arranging at the CGC, and is an accredited rose judge as well as a decorative judge. Shirley has
competed in world flowershows - including one in Paris, France - and has had an arrangement published in the Canadian Flower Arranger. She is a member of Milne House Garden Club, the Ikenobo lkebana Society and various other horticultural societies.
Barbara Guy Long
is a willow wattle artist whose cedar and willow structures can be seen in gardens throughout Ontario. Herwork has appeared in Gardening Life Magazine and on Sue Warden s Craftscapes on Life Network, and haswon theSigne EatonAward atthe Royal Winter Fair in 1996. She has travelled to England and Italy to study different techniques and applications for willow.
Marion Jarvie, after 12 years as a nursery horticulturist, started herown landscape consultancy over
The Civic Garden Centre s Instructors
10 years ago. She has been teaching in the field for many years at George Brown College and The Civic Garden Centre, as well as lecturing throughout North America. Marion travels extensively to discover and gather new and relevant plant information to add to her already vast repertoire. She has been Program Chairman ofthe Ontario Rock Garden Society for 13 years.
Margit Koritar
is a botanical artist, working mainly in watercolour. She received her art instruction at the Ontario College ofArt, the University of Toronto, and from various world-renowned artists. She has produced numerous commission pieces and has won several awards, including first place at the Southern Ontario Orchid Society s Annual Show in 1998. Her work has been exhibited in many shows, most recently atthe Hunt Institute in Pittsburgh.
Anna Leggatt
is a Nature Interpreter at the Kortright Centre for Conservation. Aformerteacher, she has a Diploma in Horticulture and is currently very active in numerous horticultural groups: she s past chairman of the Ontario Rock Garden Society, a memberofthe Garden Writers Association of America and a MasterGardener. Annais a regularcontributor to Trellis, the newsletter of The Civic Garden Centre, and other publications, as well as lecturing to local horticultural groups.
Jim Lounsbery
has been involved in the horticulture business for many years as Supervisor of Park Lands at the Royal Botanical Gardens, ManagerofHorticulture Studies at Mohawk College in Hamilton, and ownerof Vineland Nurseries, which specializes in dwarf and unusual plants.
Ita Pechenick has had over 20 years of experience in
design and fine arts. She is a graduate of Humber College with diplomas in Furniture Design and Interior Design, and has studied horticulture and landscape design. Her paintings reflect her love of flowers and gardening. Along with other artists, she owns and operates The Group ofTen Artists Gallery at Queen s Quay Terminal. Ita is a former president of the Toronto WatercolourSociety. She teachesfine arts and watercolour to both adults and children.
Claudio Rossi is an accredited judge with the American Orchid Society. As a member ofthe Southern Ontario Orchid Society, he participates at their monthly judging sessions at The Civic Garden Centre. Claudio has been growing orchids for over 25 years. He has a greenhouse in Scarborough which houses his personal collection of about 5,000 orchids, consisting mainly of species orchids.
Leslie Saffrey is a horticulturist and garden design consultant. As well as running a garden consulting business, she has worked for several years at Cruickshank s, a retailer of bulbs and other plant materials. She has received the Ontario Diploma in Horticulture from the University of Guelph, specializing in ornamental horticulture.
Pamela Stagg is a Canadian botanical artist who has achieved international recognition for her work. She holds the prestigious Royal Horticultural Society Gold Medal for painting. An enthusiastic teacher, Pamela enjoys developing the talent ofall her students and has trained a number of painters to international standards.
Rob and Laurie Stimpson are the owners of WindsongAdventures, a four season adventure company focusing
The Civic Garden Centre s Instructors
on reconnecting with nature. Both are experts in backcountry travel and have an extensive knowledge base ofCanada s flora and fauna. They have been keynote speakers at Whole Life Expo (November 1998), Canoe Expo and the Halton Region Conservation Authority. Laurie is an outdoor educator and naturalist. Rob is an award winning professional nature photographerand outdoorguide who has travelled throughout Canada. His photographs have been published in corporate collections, books, magazines, cards and calendars.
Valerie Ward
started hergardening business in her backyard in downtown Toronto. With success came the need fora largerspace. The business, Buds, moved to Bathurst and Vaughan and has supplied downtown gardeners
with rare and unusual perennials ever since. She is enrolled in the Horticulture Program at the University ofGuelph, and has developed an excellent Web site with all sorts of great gardening tips at www.budsgarden.com.
Dennis Winters, O.ALA, is a landscape architect. Through his firm, Tales of the Earth, he designs public and private gardens with a special interest in gardensfor meditation and healing. He has published and gives talks on the design of sacred landscapes of the Buddhist traditions, which he has studied since 1978. His formal education is in landscape architecture (M.L.A., Cornell), natural ecological systems and environmental management (Cornell), urban design (Teknillinen Korkealoulu, Helsinki) and architecture (B.Arch., Florida).
nlrocycing Sheridan Nurseries Garden Guide!
Complete with over 400 colourphotographs, updatedplant information, planting tips, rose care information, the Canadian Hardiness Zone map, andmuch more! We are sureyou willfindthis colourfulandinformative Guide an essential tool to answerallyourgardening needs. SHERIDAN NURSERIES
isit any one ofour stores to pick upyour copy today, and \\ happygardening from yourfriends at Sheridan Nurseries!
1 The Civic Garden Centre
1999 Course Registration Form
Questions and answers with the Master Gardener
Q. What plants come up every year and bloom all season?
;' N For long blooming, A. Notmany ifany! Coreopsis, campanula, nepeta, : : use daylilies, daylily Stella d oro , scabiosa and a few other or try perennials have a fairly long-bl(?o mmg season. self-seeding But for full bloom all summer it s best to use marigolds annuals. Try self-sowing ones like alyssum, alyssum, fevgrfew (Chrysanthemum parthenium) or Severfon. marigold (Calendula).
\ ) =
Q. When can I spray dormant oil on my crab apple? /) \
A. Watchthebuds carefully. Whenthey startto swell butbefore Spray in the the bud break occurs is the time to spray. Spray only when morning; the temperature has reached 10° C, when night frost is not no rain, forecast, and when there is no wind. The oil should dry on no frost. the bark, so spray at least two to four hours before a rain. :
It s best to spray on a sunny day in the morning.
Q. How should I treat liriope seed to get good germination? Liriope has purple
A. Lily turfseeds should be soaked for 24 hours, then planted N spikes of in a sterile medium. Keep the soil at 18 to 20°C for the \;« bloom following month. Seeds maytake up to 30 days to germinate. A in fall.
Lysimachia punctata 'Alexander's' A
case ofmistaken identity
by Anna Leggatt
The common name ofthis plant is variegated golden loosestrife, but don't let that put you off. It's not any relation to the dreadedpurple loosestrife. Botanically, purple loosetrife is Lythrum and is in its own family. Lysimachiapunctata belongs to the primrose family.
Yellow loosestrife is a perennial that's been mostly ignored for the past few years, though it was popular in the past and is frequently seen in cottage gardens, particularly in semi-shaded beds. It grows tojust over one metre in height, with leaves in whorls ofthree or four around the stem. Bright yellow star-like flowers grow in clusters from the axils ofthe upper leaves. It seems to flower nearly all summer.
The cultivar 'Alexander's' is not quite as tall as the species and has bigger and better flowers. The leaves give it distinction -- they have a wide, creamy white edge bordering a pale green centre. It's hardy to Zone 3 and will grow in dry shade in poor soil. For best results, give it some sun and good garden soil. It spreads, but not aggressively.
For a yellow accent, try 'Alexander's' with a yellow-leaved grass, such as Hakonechloa macra 'Aureola , and a yellow hosta, perhaps 'Gold Edger' or 'August Moon'. Look forvariegated yellow loosestrife in well-stocked garden centres or order through mail order firms.
MEMBERSHIP
¥ The Garden Information Centre
at Edwards Gardens
ADVANTAGES
Join The Civic Garden Centre and learn more about gardening and horticulture, Canada s favourite pastime. Members cultivate their gardening knowledge through a wide variety of services and programs offered by the CGC.
* Exclusive borrowing privileges from one of e Horticultural services and year-round MasCanada s finest horticultural libraries; ter Gardeners Free Info Line;
+ Discounts and advance notice of events; The Teaching Garden in Edwards Gardens; s Trellis, the CGC s newsletter; Edwards The Trellis Shop, specializing in gardenLecture Series and Helen Flegg Memorial ing and horticultural books, supplies and Lecture; unique gifts;
* Gardening and horticultural courses and Specialized garden tours, CGC plant sales, workshops for adults, children and families; volunteer opportunities, and much more!
Your membership helps support community projects in Toronto. Call (416) 397-1340 to join the CGC.
The Civic Garden Centre at Edwards Gardens is fully accessible by wheelchair.
CLASSIFIED ADS
Garden consulting, design and maintenance. Specializing in perennial beds, shade gardens and flowering shrubs. Ornamental tree and shrub pruning. Experienced, personal and affordable care for your garden. Carol Charsley, (416) 444-8524.
Wildflower and birdwatching tours. Point Pelee, AlgonquinPark, Great Smokies, Vancouver Island, Turkey. For free newsletter, Call George Bryant at Natural History Tours (416) 443-0583 or 1-800-245-2424.
Come and see what you re missing!
Art in the Link
(Lower Link, unless otherwise stated)
Barbara Brown and Deborah Marrison In Bloom opens Wed March 3, 7-9 p.m. and continues to March 17
Amirsolaimani
March 18-March 28
James A. Lewis March 29-April 19
Lilli Kirsh
Fiesta ofPaintings in acrylic & mixed media opens April 22 7-9 p.m. and continues to May 12
Botanical Elements Art Show opens Thursday, May 13, 7-9 p.m. and continues to May 27
Anne Patrick May 28-June 14
Watercolours by Deborah Percy The Flowers We Love June 15-30
Chelsea Flower Show, Kew, Wisley, 15 top private and public gardens and 2 large nurseries onEngland & Wales Gardener s Tour, May 1227,1999. With Jim & Lorraine St. Marie. Call Discover Travel, Waterloo, Ontario, 1-800-5402892 E-mail: trips@discover-travel.on.ca www.discovertravel.on.ca
Botanical gardens and Wildlife of South Africa, August 21 to September 6, 1999. Timed forthepeakblooming dates ofthe wild flowers ofNamaqualand and the Fynbos ofSouth Africa, this tour will appeal to wildflower and gardeningenthusiasts alike. Thetouralso includes time in the Kruger National Park. Also Tour Namibia in November, 1999 (dates not finalized). Both escorted by a member ofthe Civic Garden Centre and Garden Club of Toronto. Call Susanne McClelland (416) 447-4486 or (416) 978-6031.
E-mail: smcclell@alchemy.chem.utoronto.ca
English %, Garden Tour ' & Chelsea
S9N Flower Show
12 Days From $3595 Departs 24 May 1999
Includes: Return airfare, breakfast & dinnerdaily, Sissinghurst, Kew Gardens, Churchill s Home and Gardens, variety ofprivate gardens
1 800 668 6859
Coming Events at The Civic Garden Centre
MARCH
13-14
Horticultural Therapy Training, with Nancy Lee-Colibaba, Sat & Sun 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
14
Ontario RockGarden SocietyMeeting. Speaker: Barrie Porteous on Androsaces, 1:30 p.m. Open to the public.
23
Toronto Potters meeting. Slide show by Jane Adeney, 7:30 p.m. Open to the public.
24
CGC Presents the Edwards Lecture Series featuring Josef Halda, The Genus Paeonia, 7:30 p.m.
28
Canadian Rose Society AnnualMeeting, 2 p.m. Speaker: George Pagowski, I Promised You a Rose Garden. Open to the public
APRIL
5
Registration begins for CGC s spring courses. See page 18 for list ofcourses.
19
Ontario RockGarden Societymeeting and sale, 12:30p.m. and1:30 p.m. Speaker: DickLighty, Variation in Native Plants
27
Annual General Meeting ofThe Civic Garden Centre, followed immediately by the Edwards Lecture, featuring Dugald Cameron: New and Neglected Perennials, 7:30 pm
TorontoPottersmembers meetingandslideshow by Jenny Frazer, 7:30 pm. Open to the public.
30-May 2
Toronto Potters Spring Show and Sale: Fri 1-9 p.m.; Sat 10 am.-5 p.m.; Sun 12-4 p.m.
MAY
Free guided tours of Edwards Gardens begin and continue through September. Tuesday and Thursday, 11 a.m. & 2 p.m. Come out prepared
to have some fun. Meet your knowledgeable tourguide intheCGC s lobbypriorto tourtime. ESL, adultandchildren's groups welcome; call 416/397-1340 for information.
7-9
CGC s perennial sale, Fri 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sat & Sun 12 p.m.-5 p.m.
13
This month's Edwards Lecture features Charles Kinsley on Native Plants and the Christopher Harris Grenadier Pond Restoration, 7:30 p.m.
20
- 25
CGC s sale of annuals, Thur & Fri 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sat& Sun 12-5 p.m.; Mon&Tues 10a.m.5p.m.
25
Toronto Potters Annual General Meeting and reception, 7:30 p.m. Open to the public
JUNE
5
Rhododendron Society Flower Show 6
Toronto Cactus & Succulent Club 12
Canadian Iris Society Show, Toronto Region 12-13
Toronto Bonsai Society Spring Show & Sale 19 - 20
Through the Garden Gate, the 12th Annual Civic Garden Centre garden tour, features The Gardens ofGrenadier Pond (High Park)
2 CGC
¥ The Garden Information Centre at Edwards Gardens Presents a two-day
THERAPY TRAINING COURSE
NANCY LEE-CoLiBaBA, D.H.T.
Members $90; Non-members $110 (Includes handouts and activity supplies)
The use of plants and plant-related activities improve the quality of life of all. Nancy LeeColibaba is a Horticultural Technician who has been involved in Horticultural Therapy at the RoyalBotanical Gardensfor 17years, andduring the last three has developedher own business, Growing Connections. 7o meet the demandforHorticultural Therapy information and effective implements, she has developed this two-day course, which willprovide an understanding ofHorticultural Therapy and effective implementation ofhorticulturalprograms. For further information, call the CGC's Horticultural Office at 416-397-1355.
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