" The Civic Garden Centre at Edwards Gardens
Who we are
The Civic Garden Centre (CGC), founded in 1958, is a volunteer-based, not-for-profit organizationwhosemissionistoactasacentralresource forgardening,horticultureandalliedenvironmental issues by encouraging interest, promoting involvement, and gathering, disseminating and interpreting information in order to enhance the quality oflife for members ofthe community.
What we offer
Located at Edwards Gardens, The Civic Garden Centre offers many programs and services, including year-round activities for families and
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: (416) 397-1362
CGC Library: (416) 397-1343
cgclibrary@idirect.ca
Horticultural Services: (416) 397-1358
Teaching Garden, Horticulturist: (416) 397-1355
Master Gardeners
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
cgcrentals@idirect.ca
Trellis Shop: (416) 397-1357
Volunteer Co-ordinator: (416) 397-4145
Photography Permit, Toronto Parks and Recreation Division: (416) 392-8188
children. Ourhorticultural libraryhasover 8,000 books, 70 periodicals, and a large collection of clippings, pamphlets, nursery and seed catalogues, as well as a great selection ofchildren s gardeningbooks. Horticultural Information Services offers free gardening information yearround, and the Trellis Shop has many unique gifts, books andgardening supplies forsale. The Teaching Garden has been created as a working garden to foster interest and educate people in the love and values ofgardening and the natural world. As a community service, Art in the Linkoffers gallery space to local artists. As well, the CGC has a wide variety of banquet halls, meeting rooms and show space, with access to Edwards Gardens, one of Toronto s favourite garden spots.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
President: Lindsay Dale-Harris
Members: Ilze Andzans, Timothy P.D. Bates, Arthur Beauregard, Marisa Bergagnini, Dugald Cameron, Judi Conacher, Susan Dyer, Clare Fisher, Judy Floyd, Janet Greyson, Lorraine Hunter, Carolyn Kearns, Jane Larson, Tracey C.H. Lawko, Sonia Leslie, Victoria Lister Carley, Kenneth D. Maiden
Barbara Mayer, Grace Patterson, Helen Shaw, Sue Stevenson
STAFF MEMBERS
Executive Director: Douglas Markoff Manager,Community Services: Kathy Varley
Manager, Horticultural Services: Cathie Cox
Accounting: Joe Sabatino
Administration: Shirley Lyons
Course Co-ordinator: Rosetta Leung
Horticulturist, Teaching Garden Co-ordinator: Cindy English
Librarian: Mara Arndt Walter Morassutti Randie Smith
Maintenance Supervisor: Rental Co-ordinator: Trellis Editor: Liz Primeau
Volunteer Co-ordinators: Teresa Ardanaz
Carol Gardner, Dolce Tatlow, Julie Warshaw Volunteers: Over350volunteers
PATRONS
Honorary Patron: Hilary Weston, Lieutenant-Governor ofOntario BrianBixley,MarkCullen, CamillaDalglish, Sondra Gotlieb, Marjorie Harris, LorraineJohnson,Michelle Landsberg, SusanMacauley, Helen Skinner.
Notes from the Board
The season is at hand
Notes from the Corner Office Ode to unsung heroes
Farewell to a volunteer extraordinaire
The Teaching Garden
summer s programs
Mesclun:
Traditional design and garden history
12 13 14
Two May talks to inform and inspire
Edwards Lecture
All about a cottage garden
Helen Flegg Memorial Lecture
An author speaks on gardens and life
Coming Events at the CGC
CGC Makes Fundraising Friends
New program will benefit programs and services
Importing a European Tradition
The CGC takes part in Doors Open Toronto
For the Public Through the Garden Gate
Thirteenth annual tour is sure to please
Three great out-of-town tours for 2000
Plant Sales
Both annuals andperennials sales offer unusual choices
Great Gardening Conference
Sign up soon for October s big event
TRELLIS
Volume 27, Number 3
Editor: Liz Primeau
Proofreaders: Mara Arndt, Marion Magee, Loretta Skinner, Anne Smith
Advertising: (416) 397-1340
Design: Robert Ellidge
Printed by Harmony Printing on recycled paper
First inaseries ofpublic gardenstovisit
Spotlight on Native Plants
20 2! 23 Spring Show Continues to Bloom
For good reason, interest in indigenous plantshas increasedoverthe lastdecade
Getting the Jump on Spring kicks offthe season
Saving Wilket Creek
Historic creek undergoes restoration
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 ofthe month to insure publication eight weeks later. For example, material for the July/August issue must be received by May 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.
Charitable business number: 119227486RR0001
tes from the Board
Looking forward to a busy summer
By Lindsay Dale-Harris, president, CGC board ofdirectors
Goodgardeners arepassionate garden visitors. Gardens, rather than words about gardens, are the best teachers ofthe art and craft ofgrowing things. There is something to learn in anygarden, be it an unfamiliarplant or the imaginative use ofan ordinary one.
Helen Dillon, On Gardening
he season ofthe garden tour is at hand and I, for one, am looking forward to
under its care, all open to the public.
South of our border, garden tours are becoming equallypopularfrom Charlestonto California, with some ofthe best tours organized in supportoftheGardenConservancy, aremarkablenon-profitorganizationdevotedtothepreservationofexceptionalAmericangardens. What about our exceptional Canadian gardens? you may ask.
Here at the CGC we offer a variety oftours the CGC s summerlineup.
Touring is an old and venerable pastime. The earliesttourers were religious pilgrims who, throughout the Middle Ages when travel was not known for its comfort, | ventured forth in search of odd bits of blood and bone (Canterburyattractedmorethan200,000 | annual visitors in itspeakpilgrim years). Enroutetheyvisitedmany a monastery garden, saw many a famous abbey and returned with slips ofplants, cuttings of unfamiliarherbs, and ideas abouthow their cloister or grounds could be improved.
With the arrival ofHenry VIII and the dissolution ofthe monasteries, pilgrimages were nothalfas much fun, and relics were definitely frowned upon. However, the abbeys and monasteries were quickly replaced with grand gardens and granderpalaces and, at least for some, touringcontinued. Bythebeginning ofthe 18th century a number of England s great gardens, such as Stourhead in Wiltshire, were being designed to attract and impress visitors. Today, visiting gardens is one ofthe mostpopularpastimes in England: every summer armies ofenthusiasts equipped with the Yellow Book march forth to view private gardens, and in so doing support the National Gardens Scheme. The National Trust has more than 230 gardens
this year, and all supportourprograms and our library. For those intrepidsoulswhoinearliertimes would have ventured far, and stood in line for hours to buy a fragment ofSt. Francis robe, we offer a tour for plant fanatics. First stop is Burlington and the Royal Botanical Gardens sale, where other equally zealous individualswillalsobe seekingrare and exotic offerings. For others who would prefer a more picturesque and relaxed tour, the Hills ofMulmurawait. The bestvalue (garden forgarden) is found on the 13thannual Throughthe GardenGate tour, wheremorethan 20 intimate Gardens of Rosedale will be on view. Finally, forthe plant specialist, there is a tour to the Kitchener/Elora area.
Closer to home, the CGC' s perennials sale starts May 4, and includes our first annual sale ofpreviouslyread gardeningbooks. The annuals sale begins May 18. Ifyou haven t yet noticed the outstanding collection ofplants and pots manager Cathie Cox is selling in the Trellis Shop, you ll be amazed by the quality and variety of plants at both these events. Trellis Shop plant customers have recently come to expect only the best.
Future planning for the Centre continues. In January, the board unanimously agreed in
Lindsay Dale-Harris
principle to a revitalization of the CGC through reconfiguring the building, renewing the adjacent gardens and initiating a horticultural therapy program. Detailed studies by independent professionals (architects and landscape architects) are being undertaken, and results should be presented to the board at its June meeting.
Finally, we have started a Friends of the Civic Garden Centre annual giving program (look for the card insert in this issue of Trellis). JanetGreyson, chairmanofthe fundraisingcommittee, outlines the program on page 12.
It s going to be a busy summer at the CGC. Don t miss any ofthe events they all promise to be terrific.
Letter to the Editor
Thank you for the story in the latest (March/ April) issue of Trellis, titled Help Make Our Lakes Great, on our vital natural resource. Xeriscaping is mentioned by Gail Krantzberg, and I wonder ifyou could continue the theme with an article on the CGC library s xeriscaped garden.
I particularly appreciate the constant communication of both the president of the board and the executive director. Their effort in keeping the membership informed is admirable.
Mary Neville Toronto.
Trellis Shop extends hours
For the spring and summer months, The Trellis Shop is open for two hours Saturday mornings. Until further notice, hours are as follows: Monday to Friday: 9:30 a.m. - 5§ p.m.
Saturday: 10 -5 p.m.
Sunday: noon - S p.m.
MARJORIE
S
MILLENNIUM GARDEN
TOUR - JULY 3 - 17, 2000
PersonallyEscorted by Marjorie Mason Hogue Hampton Court Flower Show is the highlight of our three-day London visit, in addition to Beth Chatto Gardens and the Gardens of the Rose St. Albans. Enroute to NorthWales, we will visit Powis Castle while enjoying three days of beautiful mountain scenery in Snowdonia. The worldfamous Lake Districtwill be ournext stop at Beatrix Potter s Hilltop Farm on our way via Gretna Green forourweek in Scotland. We have scheduled visits to Robbie Burns Garden and Threaves School ofGardens and Culzean Castle. Now to the Highlands, we must away to Inverewe Gardens, Craths Castle and Balmoral, visiting a heather nursery, the lochs and a distillerywithourfinal daytouring the Edinburgh area. Fully escorted by Marjorie, with breakfast and dinner included, also entrance fees to the Gardens as noted. $3979 per person based on double occupancy.
ContactLorna: Carlson Wagonlit Travel Tel: 905-683-8411
HUMBER NURSERIES LTD.
Ontario s Largest Garden Centre & Butterfly Conservatory
20 Acre Garden Centre and 50 greenhouses - Humber Nurseries is a leader in the production and supply of:
Perennials, Annuals, Omamental Grasses, Herbs, Aquatics Plants, Trees, Vines, Shrubs, Evergreens, Roses, Houseplants and much more.
Over 3,500 varieties that are not commonly available at other nurseries.
Humber is TOUR"ific Humber Butterfly Conservatory & Gardens. Open Maythrough 7] Septemberwith 30 Iy native species including the migrating Monarch.
i, SPECIAL DISCOUNTS: Senior s Discount, N Volume Discounts (V.I.P.), Bonus Coupons, Herb Festival, Omamental Grass Festival, Garden Photo Contest, Kid's Colouring Contests and much more
HUMBER NURSERIES LTD.
8386 Hwy. #50, S. of Hwy. #7, N. of Steeles Ave., W. of Hwy. #427 R.R. #8 Brampton, Ontario L6T 3Y7
Tel.: (416) 798-TREE (8733) Toronto, (905) 794-0555
Fax.: (905) 794-1311
E-mail: humber@humbernurseries.on.ca
Website: www.humbernurseries.on.ca
Corner Office
The unsung heroes of Edwards Gardens
By Douglas Markoff, executive director
hile taking wedding photographs, a bride-to-be accidentally falls into Wilket Creek. Who comes to the rescue? A child falls and scrapes his or her knees. Who administers first aid? Afterattending an event at The Civic Garden Centre you go back to your car [ and realize the [ :; headlights have been on for the last four hours. Who s available to give your battery a boost?
The answer is the same for each predicament: the Parks and Recreation staff at Edwards Gardens,who are here to serve the public. As superintendent Roger Macklin says, Parks staff strive to ensure every visitor has an enjoyable and safe visit.
Park staff finally found them, bewildered but safe, wandering through Sunnybrook Park. During busy weekends in spring and summer, the staffoften has the onerous task ofcoordinating the limited resources ofthe parking lot. There may be as many as a dozen wedding e T3 ~.g groups having pho-
jorevents areoccur-
ringatthesametime in the CGC, sometimes putting the parks people on the receiving end ofinsults and worse. I veseentheminaction, and they re-
The carpet bed holds 12,000 plants and takes four people Main calm and pofour days to construct. Trimming, a toughjob, is done every lite while trying to three to four weeks with hedge clippers and battery-operat- resolve a major loed shears, and all the clippings are removed as they are cut.
From left to right: Margaret Mastromatteo, Stan Rozak and Cheryl Law. Design by Mary Schoo.
Rogerandhis experienced staff fourduring winter and 18 in spring and summer are responsible for all Edwards Gardens grounds. Asidefromtheirdailyduties, whichincludeturf management, andplanting and maintenance of all flower and rose beds, they provide a range ofservices to the public, such as gardening advice and plant identification, and self-guided tourmapsoftheGardens, andthey reconstantly returning lost items including a surprising numberofweddingrings, cameras, watches, cell phones, keys and clothing.
Not only have they returned lost items, they ve reunited family members lost in the valley. Lastyear, acouplewas lostforsixhours afterbecoming separated from theirtourgroup.
gistical challenge. For years, the CGC has benefited from a strongalliance withthe folks atEdwards Gardens, and this partnership continues to this day. AtFebruary s GettingtheJump on Spring, they kept the entranceways fastidiously free of snow and iceon Saturday during set-up andearly Sunday morning. They also provided plants to decoratethe Centre, lentuswalkie-talkies and set up a couple ofeducational displays.
The Teaching Garden regularly benefits from these very personable people, who maintain the irrigation lines, provide some of the plants, plus compost, mulch and topsoil, and remove garbage and plant debris.
As I mentioned in the March/April issue of Trellis, Edwards Gardens staffand Gardenimport contributed thousands ofthe spring bulbs that were planted on the grounds around the Centre. This spring the beds should provide a
dazzling display ofcolour.
Ourpartnership goeseven further. TheCGC offers severalcourses thatrequire goingout into Edwards Gardens and Roger has always given us approval. The CGC benefits fromjudicious pruning ofbranches from the grounds for forcingfora frontlobbydisplay. The grapevines we use tomake decorative balls forMistletoe Magic also come from Edwards Gardens.
On the financial side, the CGC receives an annual grant from the City of Toronto, which also pays our hydro and gas bills and for all repairs to the outside ofthe building. Park staff are responsible formaintaining all the grounds around the Centre, garbage pickup, snow removal, and annual rabies baiting for wildlife.
As I was writing this column, two young men came into the Centre looking embarrassed: they d locked their keys in the car and needed help. Who came to the rescue? You guessed it the Edwards Gardens staff. Speaking for those young men and everyone at The Civic Garden Centre, thank you Edwards Gardens staff. [
New rental co-ordinator
Thisjob, says Randie Smith, was designed for me! She s describing her reaction the day her mother showed her the CGC ad for a rental co-ordinator. Randie applied for the job and the rest, as they say, is history.
A recent honours graduate of Seneca College s hospitality course, Randie was looking for something that would combine administrative work with a strong people component. Ajob at the YMCA and a field placement with Tourism Toronto had convinced her she wanted to work in the non-profit sector.
Randie spends herdayshelpingpeople book events from wedding receptions and business workshops to horticultural events. There s something new every day, she says. Volunteer Christine Adamus comes in regularly to help. I couldn t do it without her, says Randie. Randie is available for consultation Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., andWednesdays from noon to 8 p.m. She can be reached at 397-1349. ]
s the lectle extrars (lrcel
* QualifiedStaffincluding Canadian Certified Horticultural Technicians
oAdvisory Service, including:Plant Identification, Pest &Disease diagnosis
o Unique Plant &Product Sourcing
e FreeRe-potting service for indoorhouseplants
e Gift Certificates
o TrunkLiners
* Freepre-mixedwatersolublefertilizer
o 2yearNo-HassleNursery Stock Guarantee
* Frequent PurchaseBirdSeedProgram
e Seniors Club for those 60+, offering 10% offevery dayofthe week .,
* Free use ofspreaderwith fertilizerpur
e Telephone Orders
e Delivery Service
® Product Information Sheets
® Pre-drawn landscapeplans
* FreeIn-store Sketch Designservi
® Premium qualityhousebrands -
OPEN 7 DAYS A WEFEK, 363 DAYS A YEAR/!
Etobicoke Tel: (416) 621-9100
Kitchener-Waterloo Tel: (519) 743-4146
Mississauga-Oakville North Toronto Tel: (905) 822-0251
Tel: (416) 481-6429
Unionville-Markham Farm Outlet
Tel: (905) 477-2253
Tel: 905-873-7547
We lose a volunteer extraordinaire
By Carol Gardner
sually I love writing this column. But l | not this time. Writing it means I have to admit to myselfthat I 'm losing my friend and companion-in-crime, Dolce Tatlow. After seven years as a CGC volunteer, Dolce is leaving to pursue other interests. (Officially, her last day was March 31, but she will continue to help for the next little while.) We ve worked together for the past year as volunteer co-ordinators, and I ve come to appreciate her humour, her organizational skills and that nononsenseattitudethatcanbe abitdaunting until you realize it s a fraud.
Dolce came to the CGC at the instigation of volunteer Helen Stimpson; the two had volunteeredtogetherat the Red Cross. Dolce started out in reception and then moved to the Trellis Shop. Eventually, she left fora couple ofyears to become the (volunteer) jewellery buyer for the Art Gallery ofOntario. When she returned, it was as a CGC board member. But when it became obvious that someone would have to co-ordinatevolunteeractivities, Dolceresigned from the board and took on the responsibility. For a year, she did thejob entirely on her own. How, I ll never know. Maybe that s where she got that funny twitch...
WhenTeresaArdanazandIjoinedthe team, Dolce decided to specialize in organizing volunteers for special events. Not only did she organizethevolunteersbut, DolcebeingDolce, shewas alsoon-sitethewholetime, makingsure everything ran smoothly. When the event was over, she d even take the tablecloths home to wash. (Note to whom it may concern: I 'm not washing the tablecloths.)
Somehow, Dolce also managed (with her husband John s help) to design and maintain a garden lovely enough tobe featured in CanadianHouse & Home. (Note to self: why do I like this woman?) Gardening is my passion, she says. In fact, she s one ofthose rare individuals
who throws herselfwith greatgusto into everything she does. Now, she s moving on to other things. We ll miss you, kiddo. You ve made this a much better place. We all wish you the very best. (Note to Dolce: please note that I resistedthetemptationtowishyoua dolcevita ). And hey, ifyou change your mind, you ve got our number. &
National Volunteer Week was celebrated this year from Sunday, April 9, to Saturday, April 15. The theme is Volunteering: A TimeHonoured Tradition. It is certainly that at the CGC, where volunteerefforts havealwaysbeen critical to every area ofour operation. Thank you all for your efforts and your heart.
Volunteers: don t forget to send in your quarterlytimesheets. The informationtheygive us isvital to ourfundraisingefforts. Timesheets forApril, MayandJuneare ontheirwaytoyou. Additional sheets are available inthevolunteer office.
We re looking for volunteer co-ordinators. Ifyouhave skills inadministration, training, recruitment,placementorspecial-eventsplanning, we d love to hear from you. Call the volunteer office at 397-4145.
Clematis a big seller
ByAnna Leggatt
The annual autumn seedexchange remai popular,andmanypeopledeserve helping, especially Cathie h popular seed was Clematisviorna, an ranoutofseveral,includingcobalt phimun, Gaura,purpleliatris,and bl biosa. Ifyougrowtheseplants, please seeds forthisfall sseedexchange.
ClHihiroug) GdrdenGale!
The 13thAnnual Civic Garden Centre ; garden tour, featuring The Intimate Gardens ofRosedale
CGC The Garden Information Centre
777 Lawrence Avenue East North York, Ontario mM3c 1p2
Saturday June 17, 2000 and Sunday June 18, 2000
Noon to 5 p.m.
Admission: $20.00
GOM IP {)r.tl)'l vllt(l 'L n Ql /ll tiKQ g s acinbee botieorn gau{qna
g O/U."U]'l i/ g{lll C l/ ava .le(.lg[}Q Sllecial p(it am sale
For tickets or information: 416-397-1340
The Civic Garden Centre
Newsfrom the Teéching Garden
Summer programs excite kids and adults alike
By Cindy English
any people think winter is quiet in M the Teaching Garden, but that s not the case. Whatwitharrangingforparrots and ahiking llamato attend Getting aJump onSpring, organizingtheMarchBreakprograms andthe springandsummerprograms, theTeaching Garden staffhas been hustling and bustling.
This year, kids will grow food crops, butterfly gardens and sunflower houses.
With the co-operation of the Toronto Region Conservation Authority, school groups in grades 4 to 6 will be able to do their part to help the environment. The Wilket Creek Restoration Project in Edwards Gardens will give kids hands-on experience planting native plants and improving their community, while doing kid things like getting dirty at the same time. This summer is looking so exciting [ wish I were young enough to take part in a program like this.
The Pumpkin Patchers will return, their eagerparents at hand, and show them how a gardengrows. The SunflowerHideaways program puts kids building skills to good use designing houses of sunflowers, and the Eco Adventure Kids enjoyconstructingbirdhouses, birdfeeders and taking part in other nature activities. We can t forget our popular Art in the Park eachsessionends with an exhibit ofthe art done by the kids taking part.
Fridays in the Teaching Garden have been set aside for community outreach programs.
This summer, kids from the inner city will come to the Teaching Garden to explore gardening, nature and the environment. Bus transportation
and nutritious lunches are provided free. Many thanks to The Garden Club ofToronto formaking this wonderful program possible.
Bordano, Italy, is our focus this year in the International Garden. Bordano isknownforthe butterflies that migrate there each year from Africa and the Mediterranean. A butterfly garden will be planted by the kids in the hope of attracting as many species as possible, and of comparing the Canadian species with the Italian butterflies.
The Three Sisters crops of the Iroquois will be planted this year, with a corn, bean and squash seed sown together in the same hole. The Iroquois ideawas thatthe beanplant grew up around the corn, and the prickly squash stems underfoot stopped animals from stealing the crop. After the crops are harvested, the three plants are dug into the soil and amend it, instead of depleting it. Add some compost, and the garden is ready forplanting the next year.
Ifyou dlike tohave alittle funandhelp kids at the same time, volunteer for any ofthe programs in the Teaching Garden by calling (416) 397-1355.
And if you happen to come across a llama roaming The Civic Garden Centre halls, don t fret. It sjust another ofthe interesting features that continually crop up as part of the Teaching Garden programs.
L3
OnEarthDay, Saturday,April22, theTeach\ ing Garden, in co-operation with the Toronto Region Conservation Authority, will be planting at Wilket Creek. You re invited to help. Bring a shovel, wear your boots and appropriate clothing. For information: (416) 397-1355.
SPRING/SUMMER FASHION OPEN HOUSES
Designers Jean L. Price of CLEWS CLOTHING, Port Credit and Gladys Sinclair ofNATURALS, Owen Sound invite you to join them and see what s new for this season.
CLEWS CLOTHING specializes in contemporary fashions, made-tomeasure and this season offers many new styles, colours and fabrics. Whetheryou are looking foryour workingwardrobe orsomethingmore cozy and casual, we can assist you. CLEWS is featuring cottons, denim, linen/rayon, rayon/poly, washable suede, lightweightseparatesreadyto comfortyouwhether at work or play! Custom design made-to measure clothing specifically tailored to yourbody.
NATURALS specializes in handwoven, custom made, washable coordinates, ideal for any occasion. You choose the fabric, neckline, sleeve length andall otherdetails to suityourfigure and lifestyle. Available in awide range ofcolours, the handwoven fabrics are blends ofnatural fibres - cotton, linen, wool and silk.
Dates: May 16 & 17, 2000
Hours: Tuesday - Noon to 8 p.m.
Wednesday - 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Place: Studio Rooms, Civic Garden Centre 777 Lawrence Avenue East at Leslie, Toronto, ON
SPECIAL GUEST - Toronto only: Karen Gunna - Home Décor, Wall Tapestries, Foot Stools, Hassocks
Bring your family and friends along. We look forward to serving you again this season.
Jean & Gladys
CGC Makes Fundraising Friends
New levels ofgiving willbenefitprograms and services
By Janet Greyson
ith the arrival of spring, daffodils androbins comes the launching ofa new fundraising initiative: Friends ofthe Civic Garden Centre. It s an annual giving campaign that focuses on the grassroots of the Centre its members. Friends is a direct appealto members similarto theproven annual fundraisers ofothercharities such as the TorontoZoo, TheRoyalOntarioMuseumandmany hospitals.
The CGC has been fortunate to have a long historyoffinancial support frommembers over the years. The Friends campaign provides an opportunity for each member to effect further change by donating at a level higherthan in the past. The CGC will apply these vital monies to existing and new services, including areas that members themselves have said must be
% Petals, Stems & Leaves
enhanced. These includethe library; the Teaching Garden; courses, lectures and special evenings with guest speakers; horticultural workshops; community outreach programs; equipmentsuch as computers andateachingmicroscope forthe children; and communications, such as a Web site.
How does Friends ofthe Civic Garden Centre work? Includedin this Trellis is acardinsert thatdescribesthefivecategoriesorlevelsofgiving: friend; sustaining member; sponsor; benefactor; and director s circle. Each successive category offers increased benefits, such as tickets for Through the Garden Gate, a course, an invitationtoaprivatereceptionforaguestspeaker, andtickets forout-of-townbustours. Included is a tax receipt for the allowable amount. Onceyou decide on alevel ofgiving,please mail in the card. The CGC will informyouina timely fashion of all applicable benefits. We will keepyouinformedboththrough Trellisand by mail ontheprogress ofthe Friends program. All categories include membership in the CGC. Here you have two choices: existing members may apply this benefit to a renewal afterexpiryoftheirpresentmembership; orthey may extend thebenefitto afriend. Members of The Garden Club of Toronto and Milne House Garden Club also may introduce a friend to a complimentary membership at the CGC. Our goal is to raise $25,000 this year, and we have already achieved 6.5 percent of that figure. Butweneedyourhelp. Somemembers cannot afford to give more than they already do, but any donation is greatly appreciated. Whateveryougive, you will alwaysbe afriend ofThe Civic Garden Centre. [ 1]
Janet Greyson is a member ofthe CGC board ofdirectors and chairman ofthefundraising committee.
Toronto Joins a European Tradition
Doors OpenToronto gives citizens a chance to tour some of the city s finestbuildings, including the CGC
By Loretta Skinner
his year the Toronto Heritage FoundI ation is adoptingadecade-longtradition in Europe and launching Doors Open Toronto, a weekend ofvisits to unique buildings in the citythathave both historical and architectural interest. Although relativelyyoung as traditions go, Doors Open in Europe has proved very popular: in 1998, 19 million people visited their cities historical buildings.
The Civic Garden Centrejoins a list ofimpressive Torontobuildings that havebeen chosen forthe event, which takes place Saturday, May 27, and Sunday, May 28. There is no charge to tour the buildings. Among the buildings chosen for the event are the old and the new City Hall; Maple Leaf Gardens; the Air Canada Centre; R.C.Harris Filtration Plant; the Design Exchange; 401 Richmond (an awardwinning factory conversion); St. Anne s Anglican Church; the Arts and Letters Club; and The Guild Inn.
The Civic Garden s Centre s west wing, a handsome structure ofnatural stone, designed by architect Raymond Moriyama, was completed in 1964. An internationally renowned architect, Moriyamahasprovided Torontowith several otheroutstanding buildings, suchas the Ontario Science Centre. Moriyama had earlier designed a shelter that sits on the foundations ofthe old Milne House; the shelter is situated at the edge ofthe slope, just above the creek.
The new Civic Garden Centre building proved so popular that the facilities were soon overcrowded, and a major expansion was necessary. Architect Jerome Marksonwas hiredto design an addition that would blend with Moriyama sbuilding. Theadditions includeThe Dunington Grubb Floral Hall andthe three studio rooms; atthe same time, the library and the
bookstorewerealteredandenlarged. Thiswork was completed in 1976.
The property occupied by The Civic Garden Centre is part of600 acres once owned by Alexander Milne, a Scot who emigrated from the United States afterthe war of1812 and settled nearwhat came to be named Milne Creek. He eventually built agristmill, awoollen mill, a lumber mill and a fine house. Milne House was the firsthome forboth The Garden Club of Toronto and The Civic Garden Centre; unfortunately, it was destroyedby fire inNovember, 1962. The Milnes ownedthe site fora century; the property then passed through a series of owners until it was purchased by Rupert Edwards in 1944,whohadcometoCanadain 1911 and founded Canada Paint and Varnish Limited. Edwards improved the property, still surrounded by farmland, and built the rockery, flower beds, and a nine-hole, par-three golf course. His improvements covered the valley to the top ofthe west bank ofthe creek.
There came a time, however, when housing developments in the area took away the estate s rural feeling. In 1955, Rupert Edwards sold the property to Metropolitan Toronto, which in turn leased it to North York township, which created the park. One ofthe conditions ofsale was that the name Edwards be retained. Edwards Gardens was officially opened to the public in June, 1956, and The Civic Garden Centre and The Garden Club of Toronto took over The Milne House as headquarters in the spring of 1959.
As part of Doors Open, the CGC is open Saturday and Sunday, May 27 and 28, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Guides are on hand and printed handouts are available. Forfurtherinformation on Doors Open, call Heritage Toronto at (416) 392-6827.
For the Public
Three floriferous historic gardens soothe the soul
By Lisa Wood
Toronto has a large and lovely collection ofparks andgardens. Many arepublicly funded, some are the work oflocalor international designers, and not all are large at least one is less than an acre. Each one tells a different story about plants, landscape design and the mean- ingofpublic spaces.
This articleis thefirst in a seriesthat: w;llappearfrom time to time in Trellis.
he Garden Club of Toronto, formed in I 1946, has played a significant role in the creation ofsome ofToronto s bestloved gardens, although it is perhaps now better known as one of the partners in Canada Blooms, the country s largest flower and garden show. The following describes only three ofthe more than a dozen gardens the club has broughtinto being forthe enjoymentofthe general public. After the gardens are completed, the club turns them overto the recipient, who is responsible for their care.
St. James Park 19th Century Garden
This is a formal garden in the heart ofVictorian Toronto, immediately east of St. James Cathedral. Thebusy downtown neighbourhood is home to several beautiful old buildings, and the garden was designed (in 1981) to enhance itshistoric setting. The garden follows the principles of19th century garden design andplanting schemes roses, showy perennials and brightannuals surrounda cast-iron fountain set inaformalpattern ofboxwood-edgedparterres.
At the northeast entrance stands a charming vine-covered pergola consistent with the Victorianperiod. The garden andpark are between Church and Jarvis streets on the north side of King, and are lovely spots to stroll or enjoy a brown-bag lunch.
The Gardens of Spadina
Spadina house was built in 1866, restored to its Victorian grandeur by The Toronto Historical Board and opened to the public in 1984. Admission to the house is charged, butthe gardens can be toured without charge.
The sunny garden is a tumble offascinating
plants. Visitors can be sure of coming away from the garden with a scribbled list ofplant combinations to try in their own gardens. The P wonderful wide beds bor- & deringthelarge, four-square kitchen garden behind the house contain perennials typical of 19th century cuttinggardens.
(#8 opened in 1990, are the i magnificentresultofafiveyear Garden Club project. On the hillside below the J castle is a vast planting of woodland varieties that intrigue passersby on Davenport Road. On the terraces that flow out from the castle, sun-loving perennials, many rare orunusual inthis area, change as the seasons progress. At the heightofsummer, it s a delight to be on the terraces with the sun reflecting off the water in the fountain, and amidthe lovelycolours and perfumes of the roses
In the vegetable garden growherbs, vegetables and fruits. Whenyoutire ofthe riot ofheat, colour and texture, cool offbywandering the sweeping lawns under majestic old trees at the front of the house. From there you ll have a glimpse of the city below and other flowers. and, on a clear day, the lake in the distance. Admission includes the castle and the garCall (416) 392-6910 for more information. den. Call (416) 923-1171 formore information. SpadinaandCasa Lomaare adjacentto each The Gardens of Casa Loma other on Spadina Road, south ofSt. Clair AveTherenovatedgardens ofCasaLoma, which nue and north ofDavenport Road. [ 1
Gardenimport
Spring 2000 catalogue
For Spring 2000 we have a new 70 page, full-colour catalogue filled with lots ofnew anddifferent things from all over the world for your garden. Rare and hardy perennials, hosta, flowering shrubs and vines, Austin Roses, bulbs for summer bloom, and Suttons English garden seeds.
A $5.00 subscription fee puts you on the mailing list for 2 years and includes a $5.00 credit on your first order. now on-line at www.gardenlmport.Com
Gardenimport inc.
BEAUTIFUL THINGS FOR YOUR GARDEN FROM AROUND THE WORLD
P.O. Box 760, Thornhill, Ontario, Canada L3T 4A5
Tel.: (905) 731 - 1950, 1 - 800 - 339 - 8314, Fax.: (905) 881 - 3499
E - mail: flower@gardenimport.com, Website: www.gardenimport.com
Through the Garden Gate
Annual tour is a perennial favourite
of John Graves Simcoe, the first lieutenant-governorofUpperCanada, wroteinher diaryofthe areathat snow Toronto s Rosedale: It is a kind of a rustic interlude between the close-textured society at Niagara and the more cosmopolitan and sophisticatedentertainments ofQuebec.
In the early 1790s, Elizabeth Simcoe, wife Rosedale to discover their variety and quiet comfort. This is the 13th annual tour, and it promises to be one ofthe most memorable participants will tour through more than 20 private gardens in the area east of Mount Pleasant andnorthofBloor. Thegardensonthetourcover a variety ofstyles: a tranquil oasis, a sophisticatedretreatinaremarkableravinesetting. Some gardensreflectthetraditionsofthe gardens of France and England, with formal plantings, carefully prunedtreesandshrubsandimaginativedesigns.
In 1999, real estate firms described the area as a lush landscape oftrees, flowers and generous parks within a 10-minute walkoftheBloor/Yonge subway station...palatial homes in Victorian, Georgian and Tudor style prevail onthe windingroads and crescents of this residential area.
This year s Throughthe Garden Gate tour, June 17 and 18 from noon to 5 p.m., does more than offer a colourful description it invites you to peek [ into the intimate gardens of
Tour headquarters is located in beautiful Craigleigh Gardens, where you can choose from a menu offine foods, provided by Andrew and The Amazing Food Service Inc., or browse for perennials from buds, a Toronto nursery. Free shuttle buses will move along the route, stopping atvarious locations includingthe Castle Frank subway station, or
The photos ofBrenda Dinnick s charming urban garden on these pages are a hint ofwhat tour-goers will see Through the Garden Gate.
you can do the route on foot.
A map and briefdescription ofthe gardens is included in the $20 ticket price, but an extra program (which costs $3 and is sold at the subway station, tour headquarters and on the buses) offers more complete descriptions of the gardens, including plant lists where available, tips fromthe owners andMasterGardeners, and space forjotting down notes. Master Gardeners are on hand in every garden to answerquestions and identify plants.
Tickets are good only forthe day (Saturday or Sunday) for which they re purchased, and are available at The Civic Garden Centre. For an extra $1, they canbe orderedbyphone (416397-1340) and mailed out. Tickets will also be available on tour days at headquarters in Craigleigh Gardens, located at the intersection of South Drive and Milkmen s Road. Tickets are limited and the tour is popular, so it s wise to order early.
EVOLVING IMAGES
MAY 2000
PREVIEW PARTY & SHOW - $12.50
Monday, May 8, 7:30 - 9:30 p.m.
FLOWER SHOWS
- General Admission $6.00
Tuesday, May 9, 10:00 - 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 10, 10:00 - 3:00 p.m.
ENJOY OUR TEA ROOM & MARKET PLACE
Civic Garden Centre at Edwards Gardens 777Lawrence Ave. E. at Leslie St. FREEPARKING
TTC from Eglinton Station Lawrence East 54 or 544
Allproceeds support the specialprojects ofthe Milne House Garden Club.
Telephone (416) 449-3664 for information
Top Tours
Three out-of-town tours will please garden lovers
ecause the CGC s out-of-town tours B have proved so popular in recent years, three are offered in 2000. Two are garden tours, the third is abrand-new plant-buying tourthatwillbe especially appreciatedbymemberswho likethe ideaofashoppingoutingwith friends, no driving involved. Be sure to sign up early time is short andtours sell out quickly. Foralltours pleasewearflatshoes andletus know at the time you register ifyou have any dietaryrestrictions. Tourstakeplacerainorshine.
Gor PlantFanatics
This year for the first time a special May 4 tour has been planned for gardeners in search of interesting and unusual plants not readily available at local nurseries. Our first stop is the perennials sale at the Royal Botanical Gardens in Burlington, a sale eagerly awaited by plant lovers every year. The next stop is VinelandNurseries inBeamsville, where ownerJim Lounsbery will help you select choice plants from his outstanding collection. Then we returntothe Civic Garden Centre, where the Centre s ownperennial salewillbe inprogress. The tourbuswillbe accompaniedbyavan fortransportingpurchases, and abox lunch is provided. There is one bus, and it leaves The Civic Garden Centre at 7:30 a.m. and returns by 6 p.m. The earlydeparture allowsusto reachthe RBG intimetochoose agoodselection, althoughyou should be prepared to line up for this popular sale. Cost: $50 for members; $60 non-members.
Thoe Hills of Mualmeur
Just a little north ofCaledon, the site oflast year s successful out-of-town tour, lie the hills ofMulmur, anotherscenic areaofOntario with expansivefarms, rollinghills andstandsoftrees.
This June 20 tourvisits five ofits unexpectedly beautiful and sophisticated gardens. Once again, the tour has been planned and will be accompaniedbyBaylaGross. As inotheryears, the tour includes transportation by air-conditioned motor coach, refreshments en-route and lunch at acountryinn, thistime The Globe Inn. Buses leave at 8:30 a.m. fromthe CGC andreturnby 6p.m. Cost: $75 formembers; $85 nonmembers.
Here are some highlights of some of the gardens we ll visit.
The Loewen Garden
The large garden flows around two dwellings: the Loewen s home, which is an old mill, and the formermiller s house, nowusedby the family s grown children. Water is a constant presence in the garden: in the steady rumble of the riverflowing overthe main dam; underthe stonewalkingbridges, and inthe little cataracts in the creeks that play with water through the garden. Trees, shrubs and wild flowers spread over most of the valley, and perennial flower beds cluster around the mill and house, where they can be enjoyed from the patio or verandah. Behindthe mainhouse is awalled garden where vegetables, fruit trees and cut flowers grow; in its first year, the garden is an infant just beginning to show what it will look like a few years hence.
Foxwood House: Inge and Donald Sinclair
Thehousewasbuilt20years agoon 10 acres ofbush, beside a two-acre spring-fedpond full ofnative trout. Over the years plants andtrees wereputin, werenurtured,reconsidered,moved and removed. Theyounggardenweatheredice storms andporcupines, plus regularvisits from a troop of wild turkeys. Today the pond remains the anchor for the garden, accompanied by two small lily ponds. Unusual conifers,
roses, yuccas and alliums, creepers and climbersare all cared for with meticulous attention. A smallpotagerincludes aremarkable standard gooseberry.
Lilac Tree Farm: Maureen and Brian Bixley
BrianBixley, aformerpresidentofThe Civic GardenCentre, iswellknownto manymembers and gardeners for his outstanding collections oftrees, shrubs, clematis and perennials. At Lilac Tree Farm, most ofthe garden is mature, but propagating and collecting continues and hundreds of different varieties of plants flourishinanear-perfect setting. The house and garden lie amidopen farm fields onthe edge of anescarpment.Anoteworthyfeatureisameadow maze, a copy ofthe Hampton Court maze mown into long grass. Although the plants in themaze are only a footortwo tall (30 -60 centimetres), the maze remains surprisingly difficult to explore.
The Starr Garden
This property is remarkable for its size and diversity. A bog garden and pond lie on either sideofthedrivewayenteredfromthehighway. Beyond the house, a wild nature walk climbs up aheavilywooded hill beside a swiftly flowing stream. Thepathcontinuesto thehilltop and skirts a rushing waterfall, set amid great boulders. Passingthewaterfall, thepathtakes agentleturnthroughthewoodsanddrops down,back to the main house. The tennis courts are locatedinadifferent area ofthe garden, andherewe find perennial beds and, nearby, a wildflower meadow.
The cSpeczh//y Sardens of
The Kitchener/Waterloo area has a number ofgardenswhere individual species arefeatured roses, clematis, hosta and alpines. The gardens, though beautiful and well-tended, have not been chosen for their landscape design or
general interestbut fortheirremarkable collection of plants. It s obvious to the visitor that theyreflectthelove andenthusiasmofthe owners. The July 5 tour includes transportation by air-conditioned motor coach, refreshments enroute and lunch in an attractive setting. Buses leave at 8:45 a.m. fromThe Civic Garden Centre and return by 6 p.m. Cost: $75 for members; $85 non-members, andthetourtakesplace rain or shine. Here are highlights of some of the gardens.
The Rachel Flood Garden ofRoses
Three large rose gardens containing more than 800 species ofhybrid tea, floribunda and miniaturerosesunderplantedwithviolaandajuga, lie atthetop ofasplendid lawnwhichdrops 80 feet to the banks ofthe Grand River. Wood framing has been used to create more planting space on the slope. By the river, another rose bed features mainly shrub roses; here too are found DavidAustinandground-coverroses. A most outstanding collection of roses in a private garden.
The Christopher Andrew Garden of Clematis
This small, idiosyncratic garden is tended by an extremely passionate and knowledgeable gardener who is very well known in his field. Although only three years old, and on a small lot in Elora, its contents are sufficient to make many nurserymen green with envy. Clematis of all types and sizes clamber over, around and under small trees, shrubs andhandmade trellises. Ifwe are lucky, some may be for sale.
The Trevor Ashbee Garden ofAlpines
Only three years ago, Trevor Ashbee moved from his mini Kew Gardens in Guelph to a20-acre farm not farfrom Elora. Thehouse is unique in having a sodroof. The property is partially wooded and has both rolling fields and a pond. These provide a perfect setting for Trevor s excellent collection of unusual plants. [ 1]
Spotlight on Native Plants
For good reason, interest in indigenous plants has increased by leaps and bounds over the last decade
By Lorraine Johnson
It s hard to believe that ifyou had enquired
at a local nursery just a decade ago about native plants, your question would have been met with quizzical looks. Today, nativeplantnurseries abound, and there are dozens of resources forthe gardener interested in exploring this ever-expanding realm ofthe horticultural world.
The popularity of native-plant gardening has increased by leaps and bounds over the past few years. Many people are looking for alternatives to labour- and energy-intensive lawns, and turn to native plants because they offer low-maintenance beauty. Others are hooked by the environmental benefits: native plants have evolved here over thousands of years, so they re adapted to the conditions at hand. Once established in a garden thatmatches the plants natural conditions (for example, woodland plants in a shady garden with rich soil; meadow plants in a sunny garden), native
plants don t require supplemental watering or synthetic pesticides or chemical fertilizers. And once you start growing native plants, you very quickly find that your garden has become ahaven forbirds andbutterflies. As we increasingly lose natural areas, our gardens become more and more important as natural habitats for wildlife.
The North American Native Plant Society (NANPS), founded in 1984, and originally calledthe Canadian Wildflower Society, is dedicated to the study, conservation, cultivation and restoration ofNorthAmerica s native wildflowers. This committed group ofnative plant enthusiasts publishes an informative newsletter with articles that demystify the growing of native wildflowers forexample, a recent article introduces readers to propagating native plants from seed. NANPS also publishes fact sheets on a wide range of topics, such as gardening to attractbutterflies and growingnative trees.
NANPS s most popular event is the annual plant sale, held this year on Saturday, May 13, 10 a.m., at The Civic Garden Centre. It s a great chance to find woodland, meadow, prairie and wetlandplants,alongwithnativetreesandshrubs, andto askquestions oftheknowledgablevolunteers staffing the sale. See you there!
Wildflower, a quarterly magazine, is published by Green Ink Inc., P.O. Box 336, Station F, Toronto, Ontario M4Y 2L7; $35/year. @
Lorraine Johnson is author ofseveral books, including 100 Easy-to-Grow Native Plants for Canadian Gardens (Toronto: Random House of Canada, 1999; 326.95). She is also apatron of The Civic Garden Centreandpastpresidentand a current board member ofthe North American Native Plant Society.
Photo courtesy Andrew Leyerle.
Spring show continues to bloom
Getting theJump on Spring starts the CGC season
Thisyear s fourthannual Horticultural Open House betterknown as Getting the Jump on Spring was another [Z8 resounding success. Some comments: What a great start to the season. Justkeep doing what you re doing.
More than 45 horticultural and environmental organizations took part, plus 11 vendors. Expertsto answerknotty gardening questions could be found everywhere, from the MasterGardenertable onthe lowerleveltoNeil Cooper of South Scarborough Engine Repairs
about garden tools and equipment. Art Drysdale answered questions at the CGC booth when he wasn t doingalive spot forhisradio program, that is.
The many lectures were well attended, as were the demonstrations. Kids ofall ages enjoyedthe visitofApplejack the llama and two fine-featheredparrots, and the younger ones also liked the crafts and face painting. Delicious lunches, orjust tea and a cookie, by the Amazing Food Company were again available on the stage in Floral Hall. Attenon the lower link, who was ready with advice dance reached about 1,600 people. [
Hopeful gardeners crowded all levels of the CGC February 20, buying plants and attending talks.
CGC's plant sales offers great choices
ourfirststop forplantsthis yearshould Ybe the CGC s annual sales ofperennials and annuals: buyer Cathie Cox has spent hours in wholesale greenhouses over the pastfewweeks choosingnew andunusualvarieties as well as many popular, tried-and-true plants. Atbothsales, CGC membersreceive 10 per cent off all purchases. Master Gardeners and horticulturists will be on handto advise on suitable plants for your conditions, and free compostdonatedbythe Cityof Toronto isavailable. You can buy composted pine mulch for $4/large bag. Bring your own bag for compost or mulch, or use one that we supply.
Perennials Sale
The current trend is toward foliage with strongly textured, sculptural or a bold tropical look that give interest to the garden from spring to fall. New varieties have purple to nearly black, chartreuse orvariegated leaves. Many are great as backdrops in borders, of course, says Cathie Cox, but don t overlook them for large container plantings, too, with blending or contrasting all-season flowering annuals.
Forshade, Cathie suggestsabeddingcombination ofDicentra Goldheart, a gold-leaved bleeding heart and Corydalisflexuosa Purple Leaf, withdarkfoliage andlovelyblue flowers. Forasunnierspot, Cimicifuga BlackNegligee, will provide drama with its dark-purple foliage and spires ofcreamy whiteblooms.
Several exciting and new hardy geraniums with red, purple or yellow foliage will also be on sale, including Anne Thompson ad Pink Spice. Anotherperennial that s received lots of attention is the aster, Cathie says. We ll have two purple-leaved cultivars: Lady in Black, which has white blooms, and Prince, white with raspberrypink centres.
Sedums and sempervivums (commonly known as hens and chicks) are indispensable in dry, sandy soil, and they are enjoying a
renaissance. Sedum Matrona, theinternational plant ofthe millennium, has dark grey foliage edgedinpinkandlargeheadsofsoftpinkblooms that lastwell into October. Sagae, the hosta of the year, is also in stock, as is the perennial of the year, Scabiosa Butterfly Blue. (A good companion, Pink Mist, is also available.)
Cathiehas chosenmanymoreperennials for sun and shade, watergardens, as well as herbs, ground covers, and native plants.
Sale takes place Thursday, May 4 to Saturday, May 6: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Sunday 10 to 4.
On Thursday, Marion Jarvie will be available to discuss unusual perennials. Donations of perennials are welcome.
Annuals Sale
Favourite annualsthis yearmirrorthetrend in perennials to bold, architectural and tropical-looking plants. The old canna lily in new forms, castor bean, banana plants and purple phormiums are popular, says Cathie.
She s orderedtextured and contrasting foliageplants like echeverias, coleus, helichrysum, amaranthus and the black and lime-coloured potato vines. New cultivars of the recent and wildly popular trailing Wave petunias will be available, as well as mildew resistant Temari verbenas, Zinnia angustifolia and Tithonia Fiesta del Sol. MillionBells (Calibrachoa), first seen a couple ofyears ago, will be available in pink, terra cotta, blue, white and yellow. It s a prolific, cascadingpetunialookalike, withminiature blooms.
Also look for new compact varieties ofheliotrope suitable for containers. Its deliciously fragrant trusses ofbloom last all summer and into fall. Blue Angelonia, or angel mist, and Alonsoa Fireball Orange make anintensecombination in a container with one of the many trailing annuals in stock.
Sale takes place Thursday, May 18 to Saturday, May 20: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m; Sunday, May 21: 10 am. to 4 p.m. ¢
Saving Wilket Creek
Historic creek is restored and givennew life by the City, the Conservation Authority and volunteers
By Douglas Markoff
fter a heavy rain, visitors to Edwards AGardens are challenged to find a way to cross Wilket Creek. During spring melt, or after storms, water overflows its severely eroded banks, flooding the paths and partially submerging portions ofthe rock garden. The powerful pulse of water continues downstream, wreaking havoc on fish communities and otherwildlife habitats, and flooding low-lying areas.
Thispastfall, visitorstothe gardenscouldn t help but notice the heavy equipment and construction along Wilket Creekdownstream from the waterfall bridge and the waterwheel. This isthefirstofaseries ofprojectstorestore Wilket Creek undertaken by the Toronto Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) and the City of Toronto.
Wilket Creek (historically called Milne Creek) is a tributary of the West Don River. Before the City of Toronto became a megalopolis, the creekwas much smaller, but as the city developed it had to handle dramatically increasedflows ofwaterand itgraduallynearly tripled in size. Ifno corrective action was takenandthe shoreline was leftto erode, the creek would continue to expand and double in size yet again. This would threaten infrastructure in the valley andmake the extensive system of park pathways largely inaccessible. A wide channel also tends to dry up in summer, making it an inhospitable place foryoung fish and other aquatic life.
Erosion ofthe creek s banks and its stony bottom, which results in soil and sediment moving downstream, is devastating to breeding fish such as trout or salmon. Eggs laid in the creek require a rich and continuous supply ofoxygen, but ifthey re covered with soil they suffocate. Huge pulses of storm water canwash the eggs away. Overtime, both these
influences result inthe loss ofnew generations offish.
In the fall of 99, the first 100-metre stretch of Wilket Creek was realigned, a series of rock ramps were installed, and fish habitats provided. In late April and May of this year, native trees, shrubs, grasses andherbaceous perennials will be planted to restore the plant community and stabilize the soils. A wetland garden is planned. The Civic Garden Centre s Teaching Garden staff, as well as volunteers and children, will participate in the plantings. It promises to be fun, and we encourage each of you to gather your community spirit andjoin us by volunteering some of your time. For information, call Cindy English, Teaching Garden co-ordinator, at 397-1355.
Eighth Conference Focuses on Great Gardeners
Signup soonforOctober Series
he symbol on this page, a new logo de I signed for the Great Gardening Confer ence 2000, will identify all the publicity material forthis event. Watch for it to learn more aboutoureighth conference, which takes place October 14 and 15. A terrific slate of international speakers has been lined up under the umbrella title Great Gardeners and Their Plants.
Sincethe announcement inthe March/April issue of Trellis, Keith Wiley from Devon, England, hasjoined the cast ofspeakers from the U.K. and the U.S. The weekend lineup is now as follows:
Saturday, October 14: Tony Avent, Nori and Sandra Pope, Lauren Springer and Frederick Case Jr. Sunday, October 15: Lady Skelmersdale, Keith Wiley and Allen Paterson.
Space forthe conference is limited, so registersoon to avoid disappointment. Fees forthe two-day series: $250 for members; $300 nonmembers.
In each issue of Trellis before the conference we will briefly profile one or more ofthe speakers. This month: Tony Avent, and Nori and Sandra Pope.
Nori and Sandra Pope Twoexpatsbringhomeaworldofcolour
In 1987,Nori and SandraPope leftVancouver[slandforatravelling sabbatical inEngland. They intended to return home, but during their travelstheystumbleduponthederelictHadspen Gardens, in Somerset. You could barely tell there was a garden, except for the walls, declares Nori. It was overgrown with blackberry vines. There was some trace of roses and paths but itwas romantic, itwas old, itwas a treasure from the 1700s waiting to be rediscovered.
So they stayed in England. Those who have seen their transformation ofHadspen Gardens
NING
«0F Co . % have called it the " 4y A 4 greatest colour gar- < N den since Sissing- & & hurst. Colour is one (e of the most power- N ful tools available to 2 \ o the gardener; it s capable of exciting strong emotions, but the Popes approach to colour is deceptively simple. Theirpresentation, Colourby Design, mirrors the contents of their recent book, which demonstrates how to develop the full potential ofcolour in the garden. Using slides and culling fromtheirexperience inrestoringHadspen, thePopeswilltellushowtocarryacolourtheme throughout the year, using subtle variations to respond to the varying light conditions ofthe seasons.
TonyAvenf
Hostas, heucheras andalaugh a minute
Tony Avent, president of Plant Delights NurseryofRaleigh,N.C., isuniqueamongplant nuts, a common breed in the world ofnursery owners. Tony is the kind of speaker you can t resist: a few years ago his lecture to the Ontario Rock Garden Society brought down the house. His sense ofhumourisarealtreat. What else can you expect from a nurseryman whose catalogue price is 10 stamps orabox ofchocolates.
But there s more to Tony than a talent for levity. He s a world-renowned expert on Asarum, commonlyknownas wildginger, who also holds his own on subjects like breeding hostas and collecting seed in the mountains of China.
Tony s enthusiasm for unusual plants has made him a popular garden writer for the New York Times, Fine Gardening and Horticulture magazines. He s also appeared on many gardening television shows. Tonywill lecture on a numberofhis favouriteplants, includinghosta, Heuchera and Heucherellas. ¢
SPECIAL EVENINGS
speaker: MARTIN LANE FOX
pate: WEDNESDAY, MAY 10, 7:30 P.M.
Toric: STRUCTURE OF A GARDEN
Martin Lane Fox decided some years ago to retire from his own company, Chartered Surveyors, to concentrate on his main interest horticulture. His architectural training, love ofpainting and interest in plants led to his work in garden design. Today he s one ofthe most sought-afterdesigners ofboth public and private gardens. Recently, Martin has been involved in major projects in the United Kingdom as well as the Middle East, France, Switzerland andNorth America. CurrentIy he is renovating the landscape at Trinity College in Toronto, specifically the library grounds.
He spent 20 years creating a six-acre garden near Newbury, England, that s widely regarded as one ofthe finest made since the Second World War. Moreover, he s a keen naturalist, particularly interested in butterfly conservation.
Martin will give an informative, descriptive and colourful slide presentation of restoration projects, from beginning to end, in this country and abroad.
Admission: free.
speaker: FRANK KERSHAW
pate: WEDNESDAY, MAY 31, 7:30 P.M.
Toric: TORONTO S GREEN OSCAR
Frank Kershaw recently returned from Harnamatsu, Japan, where the City ofToronto walkedoff with first prize for cities with over one million population in the Nations in Bloom contest. Nations in Bloom is the world s only international environmental management competition. The Green Oscar recognizes Toronto s outstanding efforts and success in the greening of the city. Finalists in the competitionwith Toronto were: Qing Dao City, China, and Salvador, Brazil. Submissions were judged against the following criteria: enhancement of the landscape; heritage management; environmentally sensitive practices; community involvement; and planning for the future. For this special evening, Frank shows the award-winning presentation and talks about his experiences during the competition. See how Edwards Gardens and The Civic Garden Centre played a key role in Toronto s success.
Admission: $5.
Art in the Link
May 11 to May 21 - North York Visual Artists Spring Show. Photographs and paintings in a variety of mediums and styles.
May 22 to June 4 - Anne Patrick and the Willowdale Group of Artists. Members display 60 paintings in a variety of mediums.
June 5 to June 18 - E. Bromberg, an Israeli artist, offers a brief retrospective exhibition of biblical miniatures, still lifes and landscapes.
sreaker: STEPHEN WESTCOTT-GRATTON
pate: WEDNESDAY, JUNE 7, 7:30 P.M.
Toric: CREATING
A COTTAGE GARDEN IN CANADA
Stephen Westcott-Gratton is a familiar name to CGC members. Stephen was chiefhorticulturist here during 1995-7, and we re thrilled to help him launch his first book, Creating a Cottage Garden in Canada, published this spring.
As Stephen notes in the book, The time is right for a renaissance of the English cottage garden style. Combining flowers, fruit, herbs and vegetables, the cottage garden is a perfect solution fortoday sbusy gardenerwhowants a gorgeous, low-maintenance garden and also wants to be environmentally responsible.
Stephen s talk and slides will guide you through the steps necessary to create the riot ofcolour, textureandshapefoundinEnglishcottage gardens. He llalsoanswerquestionsandautographbooks.
Admission: free to members; $4 non-members. ]
'HELEN FLEGG MEMORL
sreaker: DOROTHY FIELD
pate: THURSDAY, MAY 4, 7:30 P.M.
Toric: BETWEEN GARDENS
This marks the third annual Helen Flegg Memorial Lecture, a series provided by former long-time volunteerandmemberofthe CGCboardofdirectors PeterD.C. Thomas, whobequeathed $10,000 to the CGC in honourofHelenFlegg. The interest from the bequest is usedto fundthe annual lecture. Dorothy Field speaks about her book, Between Gardens, whose beginnings were a simple proposal between friends: Dorothy Field and Carol Graham Chudley agreed to correspond for a year about the cycles of their beloved gardens. At the end of the year they found they d created much more than a series ofletters. Instead, they d written about the value oflife itself: about tossing seeds, working the soil and reaping what the land loves to grow; about lasting friendship and living with integrity. One of the M book s themes is Carol s struggle with chronic fa-
Giovanna Manni Proprietor
NN tigue syndrome. Dorothy writes: By the time we started writing, Carol had TRATTORIA had chronic fatigue syndrome for 10 years. Slowly andsteadily, herdisability increases gardening and writing the letters became her outlet.
637 College Street, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M6G 1B5
Admission: free. Telephone 416 538-2098 Book signing follows lecture. [ 1
Expert advice from the Master Gardeners
Q. Al
I 'm removing apatio laid on sand, andI want to add some soil to the surface. Does the city give away topsoil, or canyou suggest a source?
Toronto has free leafcompost available at various depots; call 392-4689 for the nearest location. Topsoil and triple mix are also sold at garden centres, by the cubic yard or the bag. Manure is available from Sunnybrook Riding Stables: 444-4044. Sl Forfree soil amendments, collect leaves infall, grindthemup Leafmould orcompost is a with your lawn mower and spread thickly. Home compost is good amendment forsandy soil. also excellent.
Q. Ants are travelling up myfruit tree in hordes. They seem to be after little black bugs. Is there a solution?
A. The ants have setup aphid farming inyourtree. Hose them offwith a strong spray, or use tanglefoot around the trunk to stop the ants from ascending. Spray the tree with dormant oil in spring, before bud break, to control the insects. A soap insecticide also controls aphids.
Wt us
A sticky band will stop insects Lllustrations by Vivian Jenkinson from getting up the tree.
Q. A. How can Ipreserve bulrushes?
Pick them early in the season, before they open, anduse aplastic spray to prevent them from opening. To colour bulrushes, 3 diptheminadyebathoruse a metallic spray paint. To stop them from curling, dry \ thembyburying in sand for a month.
Mixed greens an easy and quick garden treat
ByAnna Leggatt
Mesclunis aFrenchwordmeaningmixture, and mesclun is an essential part of my vegetable patch.
Packages ofmesclun seed contain various greens for salads arugula, differentvarieties of leaf lettuces, oriental greens, herbs, radicchio and other gourmet leafy vegetables. Each seed company offers slightly different mixtures, so read package labels to see what you re getting. You could even makeyourownmixture, though thatcanbecome expensivebecause you have to buy several packages to getyourown custommix.
Plant seed in rows in a sunny spot in early spring. Sixhours ofsunshine, preferablymorning sun, is fine. Ideally, you shouldwork some compost into the bedthe fall before youplanto
plant. (For greens, fertilizer requirements are generally low.) Shake the seed packet well to get an even mixture, and plant seeds about1/2 inch (one centimetre) apart, or broadcast them in a band about four inches (10 centimetres) wide. Cover seeds with about 1/8 inch (three millimetres) ofsoil andkeep itmoisttillthey germinate. Water with a watering can | or fine spray from the hose so seeds don t wash away. Harvest the mesclun when it s four to six inches (10 to 15 centimetres) tall, which takes approximately three weeks after germination, and cut tojust above the ground. After another three to four weeks, you can cut again. You can grow a continuous crop by sowing a few more seeds every week. Some blends prefer cooler weather and go to i seed in a hot summer. Ifthis happens, sow another crop in late summer.
One mix [ tried contained arugula, chervil, coriander, leaf lettuce and onion, plus other plants too young to identify when I ate them. Use mesclun in salads, sandwiches, with hamburgers or hotdogs, or as a garnish.
Mesclun can also be grown in an unheated greenhouseorsunroominpots, oronacool windowsill in fall or winter. Winter crops usually 1 require some auxiliarylightingto flourish. @
May 4
Coming Events at the Civic Garden Centre
MAY
Helen Flegg Memorial Lecture. 7:30 p.m. Speaker: Dorothy Field, author of Between
Gardens, speaking about her book. Admission: Free.
May 4
Bus Tour for Plant Fanatics. Buses depart Civic Garden Centre at 7:30 a.m. Stops: Royal Botanical Gardens annual plant sale, Vineland Nurseries, then back to Civic Garden Centre Perennials Sale. Admission: $50 members; $60 non-members. Lunch included.
May 4-7
Perennials Sale/Muich Days Civic Garden Centre Auditorium. Used gardening books and magazines will be on sale. Special guest, May 4: Marion Jarvie. Thursday to Saturday: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Sunday: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
May 8-10
Evolving Images. Milne House Garden Club Millennium Flower Show. Preview party May 8, 7:30 - 9:30 p.m. Admission: $12.50
May 9: 10 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Admission: $6. May 10: 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Admission: $6.
May 10
Special Evening. 7:30 p.m. Floral Hall.
Speaker: Martin Lane Fox, RHS council member.
Topic: Structure of a Garden. Admission: $5.
May 14
Ontario Rock Garden Society. Plant sale, 12:30 p.m. Lecture 1:30 p.m. Plants at Siskiyou Rare Plant Nursery, Oregon, by Baldassare Mineo.
May 18 -21
Annuals Sale. CGC auditorium. Thursday to Saturday: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Sunday: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
May 27, 28
Doors Open Toronto. Free tours of CGC building, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
May 28
Toronto African Violet Society Plant show and sale, Floral Hall, 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. Admission: $1.
May 31
Special Evening. 7:30 p.m. Floral Hall. Speaker: Frank Kershaw. Topic: Toronto s Green Oscar. Admission: $5.
JUNE
June 3
Toronto Cactus Show. Studios 1, 2 and 3. 9a.m.-5pm.
June 7
Edwards Lecture. 7:30 p.m. Floral Hall. Speaker: Stephen Westcott-Gratton. Topic: Creating a Cottage Garden in Canada. Free for members; $4 non-members.
June 10, 11
Toronto Bonsai Society show. Saturday: 9 a.m. - 10 p.m. Sunday: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
June 13
North Toronto Horticultural Society lecture. 8 p.m. Speaker: Frank Kershaw. Topic: Great Estates of the Lake Ontario Shoreline. Admission: free.
In and Around the GTA
May 13, June 10
Merlin s Hollow. Open garden. 181 Centre Crescent, Aurora. Visit the gardens 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Admission: free.
May 13,14
St. Mark s Heritage Foundation. Trillium Walk. A forest walk featuring trilliums and returning birds. Candlewick Woods, Port Britain (exit 456 on 401, near Port Hope). 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission: singles $10, families $20.
June 3, 4
Jarvie Garden. Open house. 37 Thornheights Rd., Thornhill. 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., rain or shine. Admission: free.
June 9 - 11
Ontario Horticultural Association Convention: Sharing Tradition and Vision in Horticulture. Guelph, Ontario. Contact: Ken Smith (905) 727-6984.
The New Traditional Garden: apracticalguide to creating and restoring authenticAmerican gardensfor homes ofall ages by Michael Weishan
New York, Ballantine Publishing Group, 1999; 337 pages, $53.50.
Traditional style is back in interior design, house building, and now in gardening. Michael Weishan takes us on a personal journey, based on his own experiences and research, into the world ofhistoric gardenrestoration. The book is not only apractical guide to restoring historical gardens to their original design, but it also reflects Weishan s beliefthat any house can benefit fromthe principles our forefathers used to plant their gardens. He explains why old gardens have lessons to teach us, and shows modern gardeners how to take the best elements ofthe past and adapt them to the landscapes oftoday. As well as describing the historical principles ofunity, order, balance, cohesion and practicality, Weishan shows these ideas in action with sections on historic gardens, makeovers ofhouses, andpracticalways to incorporate the ideas into your landscape. Ifyou have ever lamented the disappearance ofall the wonderful gardens ofyesteryear, whichwererich in sensory delights and stylish symmetry, lookno furtherthanthis booktorestore or create your own classic garden.
A TrailofTrials
Reviewed by Dorothy Gebert, library volunteer
By James W. Trimbee and Jean Trimbee McKenzie Edinburgh, Pentland
Press,1995; 222 pages, $20.
James Trimbee s life was one ofstruggle, hard work, and eventual success in his chosen field of horticulture. Born in 1884 in a smallvillagenearWinchester, England, he was the son ofthe head labourer ofa large estate. Trimbee had an interest in gardening from childhood and grew up with a love for the outdoors, plants and nature. His early life followed many twists and turns, from workonan estate garden and a stintinthe merchantnavy to immigrationto Canadain 1905. After severaljobs, includingonewith SirHenry Pellatt, who wasbuilding CasaLoma, hebegantowork on his real love: growing flowers and vegetables.
A Trail of Trials is well-named because it traces Trimbee s ups and downs in his journey through life, eventhoughhe eventuallybecame one ofthebest-known florists inthe Toronto area. He was also ahead ofhis time in recognizing the damage done by air and waterpollution.
The book is based on Trimbee s own diaries, and the first section was completed by Trimbee himself. The second section, finishedby his daughterJean, is valuable not only for the history of horticulture in the Toronto area, but also for the glimpse ofToronto s development during Trimbee s lifetime.
Water-wise gz denin ps
Reviewedby Kathleen Flynn, library volunteer
+ Place plantsin groups according to the amount ofwaterthey need. This way, you won'tover or underwaterany parts ofyour garden.
the amount ofevaporation. . Control weeds. Theyoompetewith useful ptants forwater
ROBERT LOWREY'S PIANO EXPERTS
Tlhe @f/p&lf;Finest Pianos i n ' L = ooy
Bosendorfer SCHIMMEL
Snoe 1828, hessetthestandard by ' Germany s best; extraordinary whichallfinepianosaremeasured. | musicality and craftsmanship.
For 135yearsa NorthAmerican institution, and in Toronto, the official piano for most majorarts facilities and organizations.
Kemble NORDHEIMER
German soundboards. Yamaha | A great Canadian name on a carponents. BquisieBriishcabinetry. | fabulously affordable piano. True piano tone is just the beginning ofyour musical journey!
Do you know someone who should be a CGC member?
If so, give them a copy of Trellis to showthem everything they're missing out on. They ll thank & you for it. ke
CLASSIFIED ADS
Office Administrator
The Garden Club ofToronto is seeking a part-time office administrator for three half-days per week, 10 months per year, SeptemberthroughJune. Goodcomputerskills anecessity. Job description available upon request. Contact Judi Conacher at 544-1398 or fax 544-8889.
Garden consulting, design and maintenance. Specializing in perennial beds, shade gardens and flowering shrubs. Ornamental tree and shrub pruning. Experienced, personalandaffordablecareforyourgarden. Carole Charsley(416) 444-8254.
FOR SALE:
Domed arbour, 6 sided, 8 feet diameter, 11 feet high. 5 sides of 1 iron flat bar lattice. $999.00. Call 905-472-0797.