Trellis - V30, No6 - Nov 2003

MISTLETOE MAGIC BRINGINGYOUR HOME TO LIFE

Who We Are

The Toronto Botanical Garden is a volunteerbased, charitable organization thatacts as a central resource and leader for gardening, horticultural arts and sciences, and alliedenvironmental issues.

Dur Vision

The Toronto Botanical Garden will be an outstanding horticultural landmark that provides leadership in gardening education and information to enhance the qualityoflife forthecommunityand itsvisitors.

What We Offer

Located at Edwards Garden, the Toronto Botanical Garden offers manyprograms and services, including year-round activities for families and children.

3¢ Directory & Hours of Operation

Administrative

Offices

Monday to Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Library & Trellis Shop

April 1 to December 23

Monday to Friday 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Saturday, Sunday & Holidays noon to 5 p.m. January 2 to March 31

Monday to Friday 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Saturday, Sunday& Holidays noon to 4 p.m.

Telephone: 416-397-1340; Fax: 416-397-1354

E-mail: civicgardencentre@infogarden.ca

Master Gardeners Info Line: 416-397-1345

Monday to Friday 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Saturday, Sunday& Holidays noon to 3 p.m. or Infogarden.ca/mastergardenerboard.htm

Community Services: 416-397-1351 communication@infogarden.ca

Courses: 416-397-1362; courses@infogarden.ca

Horticultural Services: 416-397-1358 horticulture@infogarden.ca

Executive Director: 416-397-1346 director@infogarden.ca

Library: 416-397-1343; library@infogarden.ca

Rentals: 416-397-1349; rentals@infogarden.ca

Teaching Garden: 416-397-1355 teachinggarden@infogarden.ca

Trellis Shop: 416-397-1357 hortassistant@infogarden.ca

Volunteer Co-ordinator: 416-397-4145 volunteers@infogarden.ca

Our horticultural library has over 8,000 books, periodicals, and a large collection of clippings, 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 ofgardening and the natural world. As a community service, Art in the Link offers gallery space to local artists. As well, the TBG has a wide variety of banquet halls, meeting rooms and show space, with access to Edwards Gardens, one of Toronto s favourite garden spots.

3¢ Patrons

Brian Bixley, AwdreyClarke,MarkCullen, Camilla Dalglish, SondraGotlieb, Marjorie Harris, LorraineJohnson, Michele Landsberg, Susan Macauley, Helen Skinner

3% Board of Directors

PRESIDENT: Janet Greyson

Kim Dalglish Abell, Alice Adelkind, Brad Badeau, Arthur Beauregard, Marisa Bergagnini, Dugald Cameron, Peter Cantley, LindsayDale-Harris, KathyDembroski, Leslie Denier, TonyDiGiovanni, Heather Dickson, Suzanne Drinkwater, Geoffrey Dyer, Ralph Fernando, Mary Fisher, Judy Floyd, Carol Gardner, Lorraine Hunter, Linda Ledgett, Sonia Leslie, Patrick Li, Doreen Paton,Jean Read,Jennifer Reynolds, Dawn Scott, BunnySlater

3StaffMembers

Executive Director

Margo Welch

Manager, Community Services Jenny Rhodenizer Manager, Horticultural Services Cathie Cox

Volunteer Co-ordinator Christine Martin

Accounting Joe Sabatino

Administration

Course Co-ordinator

Shirley Lyons

Rosetta Leung

Annual Giving Manager Janice Turner King

Capital Campaign Director Janice Turner King

Annual Giving Development Co-ordinator Andrea MacIntyre

Development Co-ordinator

Horticultural Assistant

Librarian

Maintenance Supervisor

Facility & Event Co-ordinator

Niti Bhotoia

Karen Sloan

MaraArndt

Walter Morassutti

Stephanie Chiang

Teaching Garden Co-ordinator KimberleyMacDonald

EDITOR

Lorraine Flanigan

DESIGN

June Anderson

VOLUNTEER

EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS

M. Arndt, T. Coombes, M. Magee

VOLUNTEER PROOFREADERS

M.Bruce, M.Burston

J. McGuire

L.&S. Skinner, A.Smith

ADVERTISING

Printed by Harmony Printing on recycled paper

Trellis is published six times a year as a members newsletter by the Toronto Botanical Garden at Edwards Gardens. 777 Lawrence Avenue East, Toronto, Ontario M3C 1P2, 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 ensure publication eight weeks later. For example, material for the January/February issue must be received by October 31.

Opinions expressed in Trellis do not necessarily reflect those of the TBG. Submissions may be edited for style and clarity.

All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part is prohibited without written permission.

Charitable business number: 119227486RR0001

Canada Publications Mail Product Sales Agreement #40013928

ISSN 0380-1470

NU[HS from the Board

,. by Janet Greyson e PRESIDENT

Beautifying Toronto - not a new idea!

look back at the history of gardening in Aour city demonstrates that we have a rich heritage of recognizing the importance that gardens and parks play in our cultural lives. The Toronto Botanical Garden is continuing that tradition, enhancing the quality of life for the community by creating gardens for beauty, enjoyment and education.

This summer I was wandering through an antique store, which I quite often do, and saw a little gardening book on the shelf. Tucked inside the cover of the book was a small pamphlet with The Toronto Horticultural Society written on it. Inside it was the list of officers and members of the society dated October 31, 1919. The membership consisted of people like Sir John and Lady Eaton, Sir Joseph Flavelle, Sir Edmund Osler, Sir Henry Pellatt and Mr. W.G. Gooderham, His Worship the Mayor and many less familiar names. This little find sent me on a quest to discover if the garden interests of these Toronto citizens differed from those of today.

The Toronto Horticultural Society (THS) was started in 1834 by Sir John Colborne, the lieutenant governor of Upper Canada. The mandate of the society was to encourage the introduction of improved varieties of fruits, plants and vegetables and the beautification of green spaces threatened by urban expansion. This is not so different from the mission of the Toronto Botanical Garden today which acts as a central resource and leader for gardening, horticulture and allied environmental issues.

The membership of the THS in its early days included professional horticulturalists (gardeners and landscapers) as well as enthusiastic amateurs and practitioners. By 1846 the city s mayor was president, with W.B. Jarvis as vicepresident and W.G. Allan (of Allan Gardens fame) as treasurer. Thus, from its early days the

city recognized gardens and horticulture as an important aspect of the cultural life of its citizens and formed partnerships with private citizens and interest groups to help promote this goal. The Toronto Botanical Garden is also aware that such partnerships are important in achieving its vision of having public gardens for all to learn from and enjoy.

By the late eighteen hundreds, the idea that cities must have beauty was fuelled by the advance of unattractive urban sights, ugly billboards, overcrowding and general drabness. Statements that extolled the virtue of the city beautiful claimed that it increased civic pride and satisfied artistic sense but also was a social necessity, a civic duty and a profitable investment. There were many activities organized by horticultural societies and interested citizens, such as city clean-up weeks and tree planting, to achieve the desired goal of an attractive urban environment. And this has not changed. The TBG supports the idea that gardens, horticulture and related activities enhance the quality of life of the community.

Many individuals in early Toronto believed in the importance of preserving public green space. Many parks and gardens have been named in their honour, such as Edwards Gardens and Allan Gardens. Today we see that same commitment and leadership as the Toronto Botanical Garden moves forward with its capital campaign to raise funds for an improved building and the development of gardens.

The renaming of the Civic Garden Centre as the Toronto Botanical Garden and its planned revitalization is another step in a long tradition of recognizing the importance of gardening and parks in our lives.

Forfurther reading on Toronto s gardening history, contactourlibraryat416-397-1343. ®

X § Allan Gardens & Centennial Park Conservatories

Christmas Flower Show

er Wonderland

December 7th, 2003 -January 4th, 2004

Open Daily: 10 am - 5 pm

Conservatory by Candlelight December 14th - 23rd, 26th - 30th, 5 to 7 pm

Admission is Free

Grand Opening at Allan Gardens Sunday, December 7th (noon to 5 pm)

# Victorian Carollers : Father Christmas :# Hot Cider and Cookies # Horse and Carriage rides in the Park = Children s Activities

Allan Gardens: south side ofCarlton Street between Jarvis and Sherbourne Streets. For more info call416-392-7288

Conservatory by Candlelight Grand Opening at Centennial Park Sunday, December 14th (5 to 7 pm)

:# Victorian Carollers : Cider & Cookies

Centennial Park Conservatory: 151 Elmcrest Road (north ofRathburn Rd., west ofHwy 427) For more info call 416-394-8543

from the Corner Office

by Margo Welch ® Executive DIRECTOR

Parks conference advocates partnersips

reen public spaces have been an essenGtial element in the design of the most celebrated cities in the world. Toronto enjoys its reputation as a livable city in part because of our parks, gardens and green spaces. The Toronto Botanical Garden currently plays a role in supporting our city s gardens, and we envision deepening our commitment by contributing more and by supporting existing and developing gardens. Our contribution will, I hope, take many forms and be broadly based in the community. To succeed in our goal we must continue to build alliances and strengthen our partnerships with the city, garden clubs, horticultural societies and other interested groups and individuals.

Public-private partnerships were a core theme at the recent International Urban Parks Conference held in New York City. Entitled Great Parks/Great Cities, the conference brought together almost 500 park advocates including volunteers, parks staff, donors, politicians and government employees from many parts of the world. Toronto was well represented with participation from the Toronto Botanical Garden, Allan Gardens, the City of Toronto and Downsview Park.

It was fitting for the conference to be held in New York, for the city has transformed itself since the 1970s. Nothing demonstrates this metamorphosis better than its parks, with Central Park reflecting the most dramatic revitalization. The City of New York, in partnership with the Central Park Conservancy, managed the park s transformation and served as a catalyst for much of the city s turnaround. The conservancy model clearly demonstrated what could be accomplished through public-private partnerships. Those making presentations on this park management model included Buffalo Olmstead Parks Conservancy, Piedmont Park

Conservancy, Louisville Olmstead Parks Conservancy and the Battery Conservancy.

The importance of the TBG s relationship with the City of Toronto was reinforced by the stories I heard from many of the conference participants. As partners, our relationship with the city dates back to the inception of The Civic Garden Centre and has evolved and strengthened over time. We work closely with the city in operations and on the delivery of programs, and we consult, negotiate and collaborate on future plans. The city and the TBG share a vision of creating and maintaining outstanding gardens that neither of us can accomplish alone. Municipal governments lack the funds and resources; not-for-profit organizations lack the infrastructure and land. Together we must forge a larger partnership with private individuals, businesses and other organizations that share our interest and have the foresight to recognize the benefits that will accrue to Toronto. This is an exhilarating challenge but not a new process for us. It began many years ago when members of The Civic Garden Centre first dreamt about creating the Toronto Botanical Garden. We have wonderful community support and continue to build new alliances with all those who share the vision.

If you are travelling to cities with great urban parks and gardens, I hope you will think of our city and what we might accomplish here in our own garden through innovative public-private partnerships. @

MEMBERSHIP SURVEY

Included in this issue of 7rellis is a survey that | urge you to fill out. We want to know what you like best about your membership and our __programs and services and how we can improve. We need your input to make theTBG " the best it can be!

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BRINGING YOUR HOME TO LIFE

December4to 7

Admission is $5 at the door (includes one free home decorating demonstration)

Toronto Botanical Garden (formerlyThe Civic Garden Centre) 416-397-1340 www.infogarden.ca Ample free parking

70 boothsfeaturing high quality,hand-made, and unique items includingjewellery,specialty foods, cards, children and adult clothing, environmentallyfriendly products,fabulous hats, fine artand photography,lavender sachets, fine embroidered linens, dream catchers, handcrafted woodworking ...AND MORE!

Seasonal plant sale including wreaths,winter greens and many varieties of poinsettias Homedecorating demos by experts who will teach you quickand easydecorating ideas to add pizzazzforthe holiday season

by Christine Martin

A o Bravo! to TBG volunteers

I LOVE ATTENDING live the-

...let sgive a cheer look great by setting up and atre and shows. I appreciate or our crew and creating beautiful decorations. the way the actors bring a story ehind-the-scenes There are even more who to life each person plays a volunteers. make sure there are refreshpart, whether large or small, to make a seamless whole. It amazes me how the actors remember their lines and capture the feelings, actions and timing of the play. At the end of the show, it s great to join the audience to cheer for the cast and a job well done. Likewise, at the Toronto Botanical Garden, it s easy for us to see the great jobs our volun-

Volunteers iden&fyfreesin | Edwards Gardens with the help Y of arborist, Jack Radecki *

teers do on the frontlines as they fill their lead and supporting roles in the Library and Trellis Shop and at the front desk. Hooray for the cast!

But what about the crew and other behindthe-scenes people who make it possible for the actors to do such a good job? The show wouldn't be so great without lights and costumes and sets or without a script or direction. The audience would be lost without a program and a house manager; and without advertising, people might not attend the show.

So let s give a cheer for our crew and behind-the-scenes volunteers. For every volunteer you see, there is probably one volunteer you don t. Volunteers are key to putting Trellis magazine together writing, editing, proofreading and more. For each lecture and special event, volunteers work hard to make the place

ments and lights and slides. Other volunteers come by regularly to care for our plants, both indoors and out, keeping them healthy and vibrant. We may not see them but we know they ve been here.

It takes a lot of people to put our programs and services together. Over 75 people serve on our various committees and board to carry out planning and policy development in such areas as programs, the Teaching Garden and revitalization. Without this unseen work, the rest ofus could do little to move forward. There are manyvolunteers who help our staffwith their overwhelming list of tasks. We have researchers, crafters, a book buyer, handypersons, computer entry clerks, a mailing team ... . To list all of the names in the credits would take several pages!

Bravo to the whole cast and crew of volunteers at the Toronto Botanical Garden! Congratulations on a long and successful run. And the show goes on! @

l AUDITIONS NOW BEING HELD FOR CAST AND CREW

© LOOKING FOR A SHORT-TERM OPPORTUNITY?

Sign up to help at Mistletoe Magic, December 3 to 7. Over 100 positions are available up front and backstage.

e DOYOU FEEL MOST COMFORTABLE WORKING BEHIND THE SCENES? Organizers and administrative help are always required.

e HAVE A FLAIR FOR TEACHING OR KNOW SOMEONE WHO DOES? Try out for the Program Helper role.

Contact Christine Martin at 416-397-4145 or volunteers@infogarden.ca.

by Kimberley MacDonald © TEACHING

A Teaching Garden photo album, 2003

ANOTHER YEAR HAS COME and gone in the Teaching Garden. Sunflowers grew from tiny seeds into secret hideaways, vegetables were harvested for the Plant a Row, Grow a Row program and red wriggler worms munched happily on leafy weeds, turning

Teaching Garden assistant, Caley Baker and volunteer Laura Chang look on as Sylvia and Owen check | off the bugs and flowers on their scavenger lists.

hayla and ris compare notes.

them into compost. Throughout the summer and fall, children from age 3 to 9 discovered the joys and mysteries of the green, growing world through our Teaching Garden programs. These photos capture some of our favourite moments in the garden. . .

Think about givingTBG gift certificates this holiday season, now on sale in theTrellis Shop. Gift certificates may be used for registration fees forTeaching Garden Programs.

Jenna takes time out from class to pose for the camera.

Reg stops to admire the sunflowers.

Teaching Garden co-ordinator Kim MacDonald leads the children on a scavenger hunt i through the sunflowers as volunteer Zehra Kizilbash looks on.

THE TORONTO BOTANICAL GARDEN WELCOMES

New Members to the Board of Directors

BRAD BADEAU

A chartered accountant, Brad Badeau holds a BCom from the University of Toronto and an MBA from York University. He spent 15 years with Trimark Financial Corporation and is currently chairman of Echoworx Inc., a private holding company investing in technology and infrastructure companies.

PETER CANTLEY

With a background in the floral and gardening business, Peter Cantley began his career by opening the first floral boutique at Loblaws in their Yonge-Hogg s Hollow location. He is now vicepresident ofLoblaws Floral and Garden business.

GEOFFREY DYER

A graduate of Dartmouth College, Geoffrey Dyer practises law, focusing on personal and

. Hummingbird HERO

Earlier this fall a hummingbird found itself caught in a web, high up in the atrium of the building at the Toronto Botanical Garden. Quick thinking on the part of volunteer Maneck Sattha saved the distressed bird. Clutching a long pole fitted with a netted claw used to change light bulbs, Maneck laboured patiently for 45 minutes to free the bird. After capturing it, he took the bird outdoors and carefully used a handkerchief to remove the webs from its wings. Minutes later, the hummingbird was winging its way through Edwards Gardens, thanks to our Hummingbird Hero!

corporate taxation. He has extensive experience in trust, estate and personal tax planning in and outside of Canada. Both an author and a former instructor in his field, Geoffrey Dyer is a long-time friend of the Toronto Botanical Garden and serves on the Revitalization Committee.

LINDA LEDGETT

With an honours BA from the University of Western Ontario, Linda Ledgett has extensive volunteer service that includes the Home and School Association, the Junior League of Toronto and its Executive Committee and Head of Retail Operations for the Art Gallery of Ontario. She was co-owner of Cruickshanks Inc. and is founder and partner of Via Verde. Linda Ledgett is a member of the Fundraising Committee of the Toronto Botanical Garden.

ngcometoAndrea'Maclntyre, Annual Giving Development Co-ordinator

ANDREA MACINTYRE joins the Toronto Botanical Garden asAnnual Giving Development Co-ordinator after working with Janice Turner King and Niti Bhotoia in the Capital Campaign office during her internship from the Humber College Fundraising & Volunteer Management Program. There is so much potential for the Annual Fundraising Program. I'd like our members to feel more connected with the TBG and to get on board as Friends ofToronto Botanical Garden, says Andrea who feels that the TBG is a welcoming and fitting place for her because she loves nature and the outdoors. Although she admits to being a poor gardener incapable of raising a jade plant, since joining the TBG she has developed a greater appreciation for gardening and is excited about learning more.

Mistletoe Magic 2003: BRINGINGYOUR

HOMETO LIFE

Committee chair Sonia Lesliewelcomesyou to thisyear s holidaygiftshow.

ere at the Toronto Botanical H Garden we are excited about our new show, Mistletoe Magic: Bringing Your Home to Life. After intensive analysis of the feedback from vendors, customers and organizers, we have come up with many new and innovative ideas. This year s theme is the Red Door, and I'm going to open it to take a peekat this year s exciting event.

First and foremost, we ve changed the timing of the show to bring it closer to the holidays, so mark your calendars for December 4 to 7. Second, we have extended the hours on Friday so that the show will be open until 9 p.m. Third, we are bringing a new focus to Mistletoe Magic by combining the show with the TBG s holiday plant sale and annual open house (with its practical demonstrations). This means that for four days the entire Moriyama part of the building will be devoted to the TBG s holiday sales and events. The Garden Auditorium will be filled with the Trellis Shop s holiday plants as well as stalls for pressed flowers and craft groups.

Upstairs in the Administration Foyer there will be a stage and seating for demonstrations of the newest and brightest ideas for Bringing Your Home to Life. We ll have ideas for decorating an urn, making a wreath for a door, setting a wonderful holiday table and much more. One free demonstration is included with your admission to the show; additional demonstrations are $2 each. Although we ve reduced the number of vendors to accommodate the demonstration area in the Administration Foyer, those vendors participating in the show have been juried and selected by a special committee a major new initiative. A small sample of each artisan s work will also decorate a magnificent Christmas tree the grand prize of our raffle!

There are several other innovations this year. Along with a free demonstration, your ticket (no price increase) will re-admityou for asecond time, anytime during the show. Finally, and best of all, is the Sneak Preview Opening Night on December 3 from 6 to 9 p.m., the night before the show opens. This ticketed event features guest demonstrator, Paul Zammit ofPlant World, wine and hors d oeuvres and three hours of exclusive shopping among our vendors and inhouse sales booths. Another exciting new departure will be the silent auction of designer wreaths which will be displayed on six Red Doors salvaged doors that have been painted red and decorated for the season.

Returning vendors include jewellers: Shimmers with their gemstones and minerals set in sterling silver and gold as well as Amberlink with their Baltic amber set in silver and gold. Clothiers: Dem Hats will be selling hats, scarves and hat pins; AB Originals will feature designer sweaters, mohair coats and accessories; Sunnyside Up will bring cowhide and sheepskin fashion accessories; Good News Trading will have their distinctive hand-painted and beaded shawls; and Designs by Maureen will feature vests, purses and baseball hats. For the children, visit Kid Covers, Just Adorable, and a host of other vendors offering designer children s accessories and clothes.

What about gifts? We ll have them! Country Candles, Margo Hubka s whimsical folk art, Lapmate, Spindles, and Notable Totes are just some of our giftware artisans. Returning favourite, Papeterie, will feature handmade paper, gift boxes and cards; and some new vendors, Silver Samba Design, Hoi/Construct and Woo!, will offer some uniquely designed products. Hand-turned

wooden products are always popular; check out Garry s Woodcrafts and two new crafters, Chalet Woodcraft with its designer bowls and the trays and wine racks of Impressions. For recycled products look no further than Past Time Teddies who turn secondhand fur into teddy bears, cushions, purses and towels.

Natural Heritage Books will be back to showcase two of last year s favourite authors: Catherine Slaney with her book Family Secrets: Crossingthe ColourLine a true story of someone who discovered black ancestors while researching her roots and Peter Young s Let s Dance: A Celebration of Ontario s Dance Halls &SummerDance Pavilions.

Robert Ward s Captured

...a silentauction of

to the success of the show.

Supervisor Walter Morassutti, have made a huge commitment to the Mistletoe Magic show our biggest annual fundraising event. Since her arrival, Stephanie Chiang, our new facility and event co-ordinator, has been planning the show, working to implement the ideas developed by the staff committee. Jenny Rhodenizer, our community services manager, has been organizing bus trips for out-of-towners with visits to Allan Gardens and Mistletoe Magic, complete with a box lunch. Cathie Cox and Karen Sloan are planning the beautiful decorations for the building. Christine Martin is scheduling the volunteer tasks and will need volunteers for the new demonstration area, the Sneak Preview and the many other jobs that are critical Moments returns with limited d &;gnel

edition photographs and wi 3 edlsp ayea on Vendor surveys have consistent- six red doors... Creative Nonie will feature paper tole pictures and tiles. The Sewing Place brings custom-made cushions, pillows and table linens. For your very special party, we ll also have party crackers.

Many new artisans will be selling painted pottery, dinnerware, vases, teapots, decorated lamps, clocks, fireplace screens, small leather goods, hand-painted silk clothing including men s neckties, holiday gift items and décor. For those of you with doggie pets, you won t be able to resist the custom-made coats, sweaters, toys and bedding of Mona s Dog Boutique. Goodies such as gingerbread houses, cookies, cakes, honey and hand-dipped chocolate-coated florentines and almonds will be available again this year, just outside the Trellis Shop.

During the show, the Trellis Shop will be decked out with holiday plants, evergreen boughs, branches and dried plant material as well as gift items, gardening books, candles, stationery, ornaments and gift packages of amaryllis bulbs.

To complete your shopping spree, plan to stop by our café in the Garden Auditorium for a coffee or a light snack before picking up the plants that you ve asked us to wrap for you. Again this year, volunteers will be available to help carry your purchases to your car.

The staff at the Toronto Botanical Garden, from Executive Director Margo Welch to Maintenance

ly praised our volunteers for providing tea and washroom breaks and helping with set-up and take-down. So volunteers, be prepared for that important e-mail or telephone message asking for your help!

This year, we ve pulled out all the stops to plan what we hope is our most successful Mistletoe Magic show to date. On behalf of our dedicated staff, our amazingly hard-working volunteers and our special artisans, we invite you and lots of your friends and neighbours to attend Mistletoe Magic: Bringing Your Home to Life. @

A member ofthe TBG Board ofDirectors, Sonia Leslie is chairoftheMistletoeMagic Committee.

VISIT MISTLETOE MAGIC: BRINGINGYOUR HOMETO LIFE

DECEMBER 4 TO 7, 2003

Thursday: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday: 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Admission: $5 (includes one re-entry any time during the show and one demonstration) For ticketsto the Sneak Preview ($25) on December 3 (6-9 p.m.), contact theTBG at 416-397-1340. For those interested in the bus tours for out-of-towners, contact Lorna Bates at Ibates@on.aibn.com or 905-683-8411.

Plants of the Eastern Forest Understory

In Botanica North America, Marjorie Harris writes ofnative plants including those ofthe Easternforests.

The understory, a place of soft light under

the overhanging canopy of the trees, is the crux of the Eastern forest s health. Though it may appear as serene as the moon, it is actuallyteemingwith life above and below the surface.

Since the canopy grabs most of the direct rays of the sun, the lower layers make do with filtered light. As understory plants co-evolved with big trees, many of them developed large leaf surfaces to intercept as much light as possible for photosynthesis.

Many of the plants found on the forest floor are spring ephemerals. They pop up early when there are few leaves on the trees and the light on the forest floor is at its greatest intensity. To make their little shoots less tempting for hungry animals, they produce toxins that taste unpleasant or burn the mouths of unwary foragers. They photosynthesize quickly and attract awakening insects with their showy blooms. The object, of course, is to make sure the right insects get the pollen moving around, so fertilization can take place. And so ephemerals have persisted attracting, repelling, then going dormant in summer as other plants emerge.

The forest floor fills up with duff: a combination of fallen leaves, needles, animal droppings and dander along with insects that form a rich mulch keeping the soil both cool and moist. It also adds nutrients to the soil and feeds the millions of microscopic creatures leading subterranean lives. This rich tapestry oflife is also one ofits most fragile ones. Each time we move these plants, they are unlikely to survive elsewhere. Trying to save them is an arduous business not taken on lightly. They are essential to a healthy forest.

JACK-IN-THE-PULPIT,

Arisaema triphyllum, wild turnip, arum, Indian turnip, devil s-ear

Jack-in-the-pulpit is such a strange plant, yet so compelling it s hard not to want to touch it. Perky little Jack (the spadix) sits straight up in his pulpit (the spathe). Jack-in-the-pulpit in the wild is

found in the company of bellworts and wild geraniums in a shady forest in rich damp soil.

Jack-in-the-pulpit is either tuberous or rhizomatous, a herbaceous perennial living in swamps, bogs and damp woods. There are three forms: the woodland A. atrorubens, which is dark red with a two-part leaf and is considered a separate species; A. triphyllum, which has a three-part leaf and is found in wetter habitats; and the northern Jack-in-the-pulpit, A. stewardsonii, which is found in bogs in Pennsylvania and NewJersey.

Jack-in-the-pulpit has a remarkable way of adapting to its environment. The spadix can develop flowers of either sex. The root, a fleshy corm slightly bigger than that of a crocus, is bisexual either a female or male plant can rise from it. Which sex the plant will be depends on how much food is available. The female, because it develops the seeds, needs more food than the male. If there s too little food, only one leaf comes out in spring, keeping its major energy for root survival. Somehow, over the following year, about equal numbers of male and female flowers emerge.

According to some legends, Jack-in-the-pulpit was the plant at the bottom of Christ s cross

and the striations on its petals were from drops of His blood.

While some people looked at the plant and saw drops of blood, others saw a male appendage and gave it the name priest s pintle (i.e., penis). They therefore assumed that the plant would be valuable for problems related to that part of the body. This thinking was typical of the doctrine of signatures, an idea that became popular through the writings of Jakob Bohme (1575-1624). By studying nature, he concluded, you could divine the intention God had for each plant. For example, since the leaves of liverleaf, Hepatica, resemble the liver; ergo a treatment for the liver. So the interestingly-shaped Arisaema clearly had something to do with the penis.

Native people were very aware of the toxic effect of Arisaema. They made very dilute infusions for a sore throat, or as an eye wash. The roots were pounded into poultices for headaches, or boiled and mixed with a meal to help bring boils to a head, or heal abscesses.

NEW ENGLAND ASTER,Asternovae-angliae, farewell-summer, hardy aster, last-rose-of-summer

When the meadows and verges have given up and turned to dusty colours, along comes the richest palette of the year. Fields come alive with asters, the most charming and familiar of all the late summer plants, splashing bright pinks, purples and whites across the landscape, attracting dozens of insects in a final fling before the cold weather begins.

The New England aster belongs to one of the largest families of plants in the world the Asteraceae, with at least 1,300 genera and more than 21,000 species. There are more than

250 species of asters alone, of which about 120 are native to North America and perhaps 54 or more are indigenous to the eastern part of the continent.

The word Aster comes from the Greek word for star, which describes the flowers perfectly. The flower head has two kinds of florets to appeal to as many pollinators as possible. The central disk is made up of hundreds of minute flowers crammed in together so that each emerges at a different time from its neighbor. A fringe of petals directs the pollinators into the flower s central disk.

Asters are such a heartening sight and now the ban on spraying insecticides and herbicides along the roadsides in some states and provinces has allowed them to return, they are renewing their traditional autumn tapestry. Wood aster, A. divaricatus, is one of the few asters to thrive in dry shady places. This plant is endangered in some areas, as it is driven out of its habitat by garlic mustard, Alliaria petiolata which was brought here by the settlers as a medicinal plant and, unbeknownst to them, was to become a major pest. Heart-leaved aster or common blue wood aster, A. cordifolius, is also known as beeweed, blue-devil, fall aster and stickweed in West Virginia, and as tongue in Maine. The names suggest it was not much appreciated in West Virginia, but in Maine the greens were considered edible.

Abridged and excerpted with permission of the author from Botanica North America: The Illustrated Guide to Our Native Plants, Their Botany, History, and the Way They Have Shaped Our World. Marjorie Harris. New York: Harper Collins, 2003; 688 pages; $89.95. @

BOOK SIGNING, NOVEMBER 19

| MARJORIE HARRIS will be on hand in theTrellis Shop to sign copies of Botanica North America | following her lecture.

Marjorie Harris is a notedgarden writer andformer member of the board of The Civic Garden Centre, now the TorontoBotanical Garden.

GROWING HOUSEPLANTS ORGANICALLY

In thefifth article in our organicgardeningseries, LarryHodgson shows howsimple and healthy-

ouseplants make for a healthy indoor Henvironment; they increase indoor humidity, clean the air of dust and pollutants and produce substances that help to prevent human diseases. In fact, seeing green growing things every day makes people less likely to suffer from depression. Given their positive impact on human health, it s a shame to treat houseplants with chemical products. Fortunately, growing houseplants organically is even simpler than growing garden plants organically. It just takes a bit of common sense.

BEFORE ORGANICS

Light, water, temperature and humidity remain factors to consider no matter how you intend to grow houseplants. Knowing these requirements are the first steps in keeping your houseplants healthy.

Light « Light is the secret to healthy houseplants. Plants find most homes not nearly as bright as we do. If you can t read a newspaper without turning on a light or straining your eyes, the light is suitable only for low-light plants, and even they might peter out over time. Plants requiring brighter light should be placed in front of east-, west- or south-facing windows (pull them back slightly from the heat of the windows in the summer). Light from fluorescent lamps also turns a dark spot into plant heaven.

Water - Watering is a snap. This rule applies to 99 per cent of all houseplants: water thoroughly, never allowing the plant to soak for more than 15 minutes; water again only when the soil is dry to the touch. Some plants need watering every four to five days if the air is dry or when they are growing rapidly, others take weeks to reach that dry-to-the-touch stage, so test regularly. The best water for houseplants is rainwater or melted snow.

indoor organicgardening can be.

Temperature « This is a no-brainer. Most houseplants are tropical plants; humans are tropical animals; therefore, the temperature of your house is fine for just about all houseplants as long as you keep your home between 10 and 30°C (50 and 85°F). The mein exceptions are florist plants ; by this [ mean flowering plants bought for gift giving, such as azaleas and cyclamens which require very cool temperatures. Other exceptions to the rule include any plant that goes into winter dormancy (amaryllis and most cacti). Keep these cool but not freezing in winter.

Humidity Another no-brainer. Indoor heating dries the air and most plants, even desert ones, prefer some humidity. Unless your home is generally humid, keep a humidifier running from November through April to compensate for the drying effects of heating.

ORGANIC GROWING

Organics truly come into play when it comes to potting mixes, fertilizers, and pest control.

Potting Mixes ¢ Most ingredients of commercial potting mixes are organic, including peat moss, perlite and vermiculite. Along with a pinch or two of powdered lime, these substances form the basis of most artificial soils . Use these as is or with fertilizer added just be sure it s organic.

Most organic growers find that it s hard to beat real soil because of its active microbial component. For indoor growing, look for pasteurized soils: these have been heated just enough to destroy harmful elements while retaining beneficial microbes.

Pure soil in a pot, however, quickly becomes compacted. The solution is to improve the consistency by mixing your own soil-based potting mix. A quick recipe is one part pasteurized topsoil and two parts commercial artificial soil.

Or, start from scratch with one part pasteurized topsoil, one part organic material (peat moss, seasoned compost or leaf mould), and one part of a drainage material (sand, perlite, or vermiculite) plus a pinch or two of lime.

Certain plants have special soil needs. Cacti and succulents need exceptionally good drainage, so add some coarse sand to the mix. Orchids need both good drainage and excellent air circulation, so try a commercial orchid mix or make your own of equal parts nely chopped bark and sphagnum moss.

Most houseplants should be repotted annually. Exceptions are plants in very large pots : because they are difficult to ¥ handle. For these, scrape off the top two to three centimetres (1 to 1.5 inches) of mix each year and replace it with fresh mix. However, some plants bloom better when potbound (Christmas cactus, Zygocactus truncatus, Clivia, Clivia, Hoya, Hoya, and Amaryllis, Hippeastrum, for example); so repot them only when the plants have grown so big they threaten to split the pot.

Fertilizers

Pest

Control e This is where organic growing finds its truest expression. Simply put, you don t want to spray toxic chemicals in your home where air circulation is reduced. Even organic pesticides such as rotenone and pyrethrin can be toxic, so use something safer such as insecticidal soap.

: indoor growing, look for "pasteuriz

Not many insects can survive a thorough treatment of insecticidal soap. Not a poison, it s relatively safe around children (though soap can of course irritate the eyes and shouldn t be ingested). For light cases of spider mites, mealybugs, whiteflies and aphids, spray weekly for a month, covering both sides of the leaves. For severe cases, prepare a pailful of insecticidal soap solution made according to product directions, turn the plants upside down, and dunk them into the solution, swishing them back and forth. This ensures that all the nooks and crannies are treated.

¢ Generally, indoor plants need little fertilizer, largely because they aren t receiving enough light to use fertilizer correctly. So, rule number one is to fertilize less rather than more.

Soluble synthetic fertilizers can be harmful to plants if applied incorrectly. Fortunately, plenty of safer, organic slow-release dry fertilizers are available. Add these to soil mixes when you repot plants or scratch the fertilizer into the surface of the potting mix each spring. This is enough to carry your plants through the year. Of the many non-synthetic fertilizers on the market, the purely organic ones are labelled organic rather than organically based .

Plants can also be fertilized by diluting a liguid seaweed product in the ratio recommended on the label for foliar feeding (each product varies). Spray the solution onto the leaves weekly, from late February to late September. Plants just love it!

Another product worth trying is neem oil which is sold as a leaf shine product because, at last notice, Agriculture Canada has not approved it for insecticidal use. Neem oil is both an insecticide and a repellent.

Serious diseases are uncommon in houseplants, and by the time symptoms appear, the damage usually is done. Remove the leaves of plants suffering from fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and grey mould. Then spray the plant with a solution of five millilitres (one teaspoon) of baking soda to one litre (4 cups) of water. Rot is more pernicious; forget about saving the plant. Instead, take cuttings from healthy stems and hope they root.

Organic indoor gardening is no more difficult than growing houseplants with synthetic chemicals and it s a lot safer for you, your children, your pets and yourplants t

Regional correspondentfor Canadlan Gardening, Larry Hodgson is a freelance garden writer and author ofnumerous books including Houseplants for Dummies and Annuals for Every Purpose.

Photo: Larry Hodgson " soils.

The Evolution of Botanical Gardens

Carol Gardnerpores over the horticultural history books to discover how botanicalgardensgot theirstart.

ith our recent name change and the Wre nement of our vision, one question seems to be cropping up frequently among the TBG s members and volunteers how did we get to be a botanical garden, anyway? The short answer is, like everybody else. How everybody else did it is, unfortunately, a very long story one that incorporates all the ingredients of either a good novel or a bad dinner party: religion, politics, war, intrigue, and evena little sex.

In the western world, Italy can lay claim to having the first botanical garden. Between 1543 and 1547, the Italians created botanical gardens in Pisa, Padua, Florence and Bologna. The hortus medicus, or medicinal herb garden, sprang up in universities specializing in medicine and was used for research and as a teaching aid for students. Let s face it, if you lived in a time when bloodsucking leeches were de rigueur, you d be throwing a few bucks towards medicinal plant research too!

The use and study of medicinal herbs was the first reason for the establishment of botanical gardens in the western world, but it didn t take long before interest in non-medicinal plants became equally important. In 1587, the Hortus Academicus opened at the University of Leiden in the Netherlands; it was the first botanic garden incorporating a large number of ornamental plants.

In 1626, France joined the bandwagon in the person of Louis XIII, who decreed that he

would build a medicinal garden outside the borders of Paris proper. Cynics believed that the canny king went outside Paris so that the garden would not be controlled by either the Roman Catholic Church or the Faculty of Medicine of the University of Paris. The Royal Garden, as it was known, evolved into the Jardin des Plantes, which featured fascinating plants brought back by French explorers.

One of these explorers has a Canadian connection - Louis¢ Antoine de Bougainville (1729-1811). He served under Montcalm at Quebec in 1756; when the French lost New France, de Bougainville returned home to lead an around-the-world expedition in the naval vessel, L Etoile. One of his co-explorers was the botanist, Philibert Commerson. Commerson was assisted by Jeanne Baret, a Frenchwoman who had disguised herself as a man in order to go on the voyage. She became the first woman to circumnavigate the globe. There is much speculation regarding the relationship between Commerson and Baret; at any rate, after the voyage, Baret stayed with Commerson as his housekeeper until his death in 1773. Commerson was the discoverer of that lovely plant, the bougainvillea, which he named after his friend.

Perhaps one of the best-known British plant explorers was Sir Joseph Banks, a wealthy Englishman who was born in 1743 and began taking research trips with Captain James Cook. As his interest grew, he financed exploratory trips, taking along with him many of the best-

known botanists of the day. From 1773 on, he became the unofficial director of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, which he built into one of the foremost botanical gardens ofthe world.

North America joined the trend in establishing botanical gardens at the beginning of the nineteenth century. The Harvard Botanic Garden was begun in 1801, the same year that Kew s Sir Joseph Banks came up with the idea of establishing the Royal Horticultural Society. Then, around 1820, a 19-year-old Englishman, Henry Shaw, laid eyes on the land that he would transform into the Missouri Botanical Garden. This garden finally opened to the public in 1859. The New York Botanical Garden opened in 1896, and in 1897 New York legislators set aside 39 acres for what became The Brooklyn Botanic Garden. This garden was officially founded in 1910, when a director was appointed; gardens and programs began to develop the following year.

There is some controversy about which was the first Canadian botanical garden, so I've just decided to avoid the whole messy topic and talk about some of the best-known Canadian gardens. In 1912, the British Columbia government set aside two acres east ofVancouver for a plant collection. In 1951, the collection, a part of the University of British Columbia, was designated a botanical garden. The city of Hamilton began acquiring land for the Royal Botanical Gardens in 1920 and it was established by legislation in 1941; it is now the botanical garden with the most land in Canada. The Montreal Botanic Garden, like all its forebears, began with a vision it belonged to Brother MarieVictorin (born Conrad Kirouac, cousin of American writer Jack Kerouac), who dreamed of a botanical garden when he founded the University of Montreal s Botanical Institute in 1920. He began to lobby politicians and scientific researchers and, finally, the garden was founded in 1931. Construction began the following year and has continued ever since. This garden contains the largest variety of plant species of all Canadian botanical gardens.

The initial goal of botanical gardens has remained the same over the centuries: plant

collection, identification, research and education. More recently, however, a new goal is emerging: conservation and preservation. As we become more aware of the problem of species extinction, a number of charitable conservation networks have developed around the world to encourage organizations such as botanical gardens to play their part in conservation. This goal is likely to become increasingly important over the next decade.

So, after much ado, that s how botanical gardens were born. By changing our name to the Toronto Botanical Garden, we ve announced our intentions to the world. The hard work has begun, but we have an advantage over some of our forebears in that we start with a strong, multi-faceted organization that has all the basic elements already in place. Now, if anyone s looking for a plant explorer, I happen to be available at very short notice! @

Carol Gardner is an award-winning garden writer, a volunteer and a member of the TBG s Board ofDirectors as well as a member of the Trellis Committee.

FORYS =

Indoor Gardens to Brighten Winter Days

Lorraine Hunterexplores Toronto s indoorgardens.

hether you're a serious gardener or just a garden lover, there s nothing like a visit to an indoor garden or greenhouse to brighten even the dullest winter day. Torontonians are fortunate to have several indoor gardens within easy reach by foot, car or public transit. Here are a few of them.

TORONTO 200

ost people visit the zoo to see the animals, but did you know that the Toronto Zoo has one of the largest collections of indoor plants in Canada or that many are as exotic, rare and beautiful as the animals on exhibit?

The warm humidity and combined scents of the animals, the soil and the plants make coming into one of our pavilions on a snowy day like entering another world, says Liz Heighington, curatorial gardener. She says that the best time to visit the zoo is mid-afternoon, mid-week during fall, winter or spring when it s not too crowded or too hot. Even the animals behave differently then, too, with more interaction between them.

The zoo has a number of botanical treasures. Exhibits are geographically themed on tropical and temperate ecosystems, complete with fluttering butterflies, singing birds and playful primates. Some of the indoor gardening highlights are lantana, Lantana, java glory bower, Clerodendrum speciosissimum, orange jasmine, Murraya paniculata, and a huge bed of hibiscus, Hibiscus, in the Indo-Malaya Pavilion.

Dracaenas come into bloom in the African Pavilion in January and February and while the flowers are insignificant to look at they have a beautiful perfume. The Australasian Pavilion has a billabong (wetland area) with eucalyptus, Eucaplyptus, tree ferns and bottlebrush plants, Callistemon. Look for a huge one opposite the komodo dragons.

Admission:$18;senior(65+):$12; child (4-12years):$10; child(3and under)free

Location:North ofHighway401 onMeadowvaleRd.

Open:EverydayexceptDecember25.

Call416-392-5900forcurrenthours orcheck out www.torontozoo.com.

ALLAN GARDENS

Located in the heart of the city, the first parcel of the land that would become Allan Gardens was donated to the Toronto Horticultural Society in 1858 by George William Allan, a prominent local philanthropist.

The grounds, almost five hectares (13 acres), are laid out with flowerbeds, paths, a fountain and mature deciduous trees and shrubbery. The indoor show starts with the arched-roof palm house built in 1909 and extends through several side houses built in the 1920s, each portraying a different climatic area and housing a seasonal display of flowering plants interspersed among the mature long-time residents. The vast Victorian conservatory is comprised of the historic Palm House and five greenhouses for public displays: the Arid House, the Tropical Landscape House, the Cool Temperature House and two Tropical Houses.

Allan Gardens conservatory offers an opportunity to see many plants from different climatic regions of the world, including plants native to many countries, such as Australia, Brazil, China, the West Indies, Mexico, South Africa, and the Himalayas.

Delightful any time of year, Allan Gardens offers a wonderful escape from the cold and slush of a Toronto winter. And, from Sunday, December 7, be sure to catch the Winter Wonderland Holiday Show. This year the theme is a horticultural interpretation of Jingle Bells complete with a topiary onehorse open sleigh .

Admission:free; wheelchairaccessible

Location: 19 HorticulturalAve. (south side of Carlton Street betweenJarvis andSherbourne Sts.)

Open: Weekdays, 9 a.m. to 4p.m., Saturday, Sunday & Holidays, 10a.m. to 5p.m.

Telephone: 416-392-7288, weekdays, 8:00a.m. to 4:00p.m.; Website: collections.ic.gc.ca/gardens.

CENTENNIAL PARK CONSERVATORY

bl 2

A greenhouse full of poinsettiasat Centennial Park Conservatory

Another indoor garden destination for a winter day is the Centennial Park Conservatory in Etobicoke, where three glasshouses offer some 1,100 square metres (11,840 square feet) of indoor plant collections. Many unusual tropical plants are housed in the main conservatory where there is also a waterfall surrounded by ferns, vines and orchids and a stream flowing into the pond. Tall palms, colourful crotons and exotic bromeliads are also found here.

To the south is the cactus and succulent house and to the north the exhibition house where seasonal displays are mounted. The Conservatory s holiday show, also based on the theme Winter Wonderland, features a horticultural interpretation of the holiday songs, Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire and Frosty the Snowman. Special candlelight showings will be held from December 14 to 30, excluding December 25 and 26. A special Easter-themed displaywill be offered in the spring.

Planned as a centennial project and opened in 1969, Centennial Park Conservatory grows annuals for several city parks and has a small flower shop where you can purchase seasonal plants.

Admission andparking:Free

Location: 151 ElmcrestRd. (westoffRenforth Rd., justnorth ofRathburnAve.)

Open:DailyexceptDecember25& 26, 10am. to 5p.m.

Telephone: 416-394-8543

BAY-ADELAIDE CLOUD CONSERVATORY

his small but unique park, featuring a small greenhouse in the heart of the Financial District, transports visitors to a tropical cloud for-

est a type of tropical rainforest located on a mountain and surrounded by heavy mists. Found in South Asia, Central and South America, these cloud forests include a diverse selection of plants that thrive in moderate temperatures, high humidity, and rainfall. The Cloud Conservatory, which opened in spring 1994, has been designed to recreate this atmosphere. The zigzag ramps leading to the second floor conservatory are meant to suggest hillside or mountain paths and a sloped floor, ramped walkways and a catwalk extend to the interior.

The emphasis on vertical space allows numerous viewing opportunities for visitors as well as an environment in which plants and trees have room to attain their natural form and stature. The environment is computer-controlled, keeping the humidity at 85 per cent, to simulate the conditions of a cloud forest. Open weekdays until 3 p.m. the conservatory offers downtown workers and shoppers a green oasis in the middle of the city s concrete jungle.

Admission:Free

Location: RichmondSt. West (between Richmond and Temperance Sts.,justwestofYonge St.)

Open: Weekdays, 10a.m. to 3p.m. (exceptholidays) Telephone: 416-392-1111, weekdays, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30p.m. @

Lorraine Hunter is a garden writerand member ofthe Board ofDirectors ofthe TBG as well as chair ofthe Trellis Committee.

Phato: Rick Matsumot

The Cloud Conservatory is a green oasis in the midst of the financial district.

PlanPuril

by Anna Leggatt

Poinsettia, Euphorbia pulcherrima

POINSETTIAS - OH YES, those big red holiday flowers that drop their petals soon after I take them home and whose stems break when I brush against them. Today, this statement is mostly incorrect.

In Mexico where they grow wild, poinsettia shrubs have red bracts. (A bract is a leaf-like structure, often coloured, that grows just below the true flower.) Poinsettia flowers (called cyathia) look like little yellow berries and are clustered in the middle of a ring of bracts. Modern poinsettia cultivars, however, are available in a wide range of colours, from the traditional red to deep reds, purples, whites, creams, yellows and peaches. Some cultivars are marbled or speckled.

New cultivars also vary in bract shape and formsome have the appearance of holly leaves while others have erect bracts. Still others, such as the pink or red forms of Eckespoint Celebrate 2, have a graceful look. Some appear double and yet other forms have undulating bracts. Plants have been developed with bracts that last until summer, and most modern poinsettias have been bred with stronger branches.

When purchasing poinsettias, look for plants with strong stiff stems that show no signs of wilting, overwatering, drying out or leaf or bract drop. Select those with fully coloured bracts ones with green edges are immature and may drop prematurely. Examine the smaller bracts around the cyathia; if they are green, the plants will lose colour quickly. Also look for healthy green foliage that grows down the entire length of the stalk to the soil line; this is an indication of excellent root health. While

plastic or paper sleeves are attractive, remove them as soon as possible as they may cause twisted and contorted stems. On the trip home, try to keep the plant at temperatures above 10°C (50°F).

Try to keep the soil of your potted plants evenly moist, but let them dry out a bit between waterings. Water plants when the soil surface feels dry to the touch. Water deeply until the water starts seeping from the drainage holes, but do not leave plants standing in water. Keep plants away from drafts. Place them in bright, indirect or diffused light and away from hot afternoon sun. Temperatures of 22°C (72°F) during the day and 18°C (64°F) at night are ideal. Today s cultivars are surprisingly tolerant. My plants do well with a greater range of temperature and far less light.

Do not worry about poinsettia toxicity. In 1919, a rumour started that poinsettias are harmful to human and animal health. This was later disproved by an Ohio State University study which found that a 50-pound child would have to ingest over 500 bracts to surpass experimental doses. There was no toxicity at this level. Nonetheless, do not eat poinsettias!

Today, poinsettias are so inexpensive and easy to find that I consider it a waste of time to try to re-bloom them from year to year. Mine get composted in April.

Thanks to the Paul Ecke Ranch and Linwell Gardensfor information supplied.

Anna Leggatt is a Master Gardener, garden writerandactive TBG volunteer.

Strawberries N Cream

Photo courtesy Paul Ecke Ranch

OUTSTANDING NEW POINSETTIAS

New poinsettias are available in a variety of bract and leaf colours, pot size and bloom times [(early, mid- and late season).

HOLLY POINT=A shorter variety featuring green and gold variegated foliage and intensely bright red bracts.

MARBLESTAR=A medium-sized cultivar with salmon bracts tinged with white.

MAREN=A coral pink, mid-season bloomer.

MONETTWILIGHT=A late-blooming cultivar with bractsswirled with cream, rose and pink.The colour deepens as the bracts mature.

PLUM PUDDING=A tall poinsettia with distinct

purple bracts and large cyathia.

PRESTIGE RED=A mid-season bloomer with dark red bracts and dark green leaves.

JINGLE BELLS 3=Blooming later in the season, red bracts flecked with pink.

STRAWBERRIES 'N CREAM=A bicolored early variety with cream and dark pink bracts.

SNOWCAP=Considered the most outstanding white poinsettia by the Paul Ecke Ranch, leaders in poinsettia production.

HOLIDAY GIFT IDEAS from the Trellis Shop

The Trellis Shop buyers have been scouring the shows tofind thesegreatgift itemsforyourgardeningfriends andfamily.

GIFTS FOR KIDS

Brave and fearless little natu-

ralists: life-size plush snakes with very realistic eyes!

Budding artists: paint it yourself T-shirts in all sizes and a variety of designs

Little bookworms: gardening-, animal- and nature-related books

Stocking stuffers: scary giant bugs, sticker books, dinosaur and rainforest finger puppets and plush African animals that growl, roar or whimper when squeezed!

Young gardeners: garden tools and ladybug gardening gloves

GIFTS FROM NATURE

Collectors items: handcrafted and forged metal animals each one an individual work of art, ranging in price from $25 to $200 Gifts for abroad: handmade

leather jewellery, such as trillium earrings and pins, are great ideas for relatives and friends abroad. Whimsical pottery: an appealing new line of whimsical pottery animals in a range of sizes and colours and priced to sell fast

HOSTESS GIFTS

Botanica: napkin holders in the form of galvanized metal watering cans, salad servers shaped like gardening tools and mini-gardening kits in a box

Wrap it up: handpainted cloth bags in floral and fruit designs and a range of sizes and strong enough to be used again and again

HOLIDAY BULBS

Amaryllis: available loose, forced and in gift boxes. Amaryllis bulbs come in a range

of sizes the larger the bulb, the more blooms. Select from a range of colours including the popular and traditional red or new colours such as Pizzazz which features large, bright red single blooms with a white centre or Dancing Queen , a new introduction with very double white blooms broadly striped in vivid red.

Paperwhites: buy them one at a time or ready-forced in containers.

GIFTCERTIFICATES/MEMBERSHIPS

Perfect combo: gift certificates for theTrellis Shop and memberships to the Toronto Botanical Garden are great gifts for the avid gardener. Members receive a 10-per-cent discount on purchases over $10 and reduced fees for TBG courses and many other TBG activities.

M Expert advice from the Master Gardeners | .

Q 1 have recently purchased a very nice rubber plant. It had many new leaves, a deep colour and was very full when I bought it. However, every week since I brought it home, one or two of the leaves turn pale and fall off. I also have noticed dark pitted spots on the leaves. The bottom of the plant is starting to look bare and it seems as if all the leaves will eventually go. It is in the middle of the living room where it gets diffused light (west exposure) and it is watered once or twice a week. I have not noticed any insects.

Rubber plants like humidity

A 1t sounds like your rubber plant, Ficus elastica, is going through an adjustment to its new location which may be a drastic change from where it had been growing in a bright, humid greenhouse. Rubber plants prefer brightness; too little light, dry warm air or cold drafts may cause leaf loss. The plants grow best in morning light from an east window. They do well in warm to average room temperatures: ideal temperatures are 15 to 18°C (60 to 65°F) at night and 24 to 27°C (75 to 80°F) during the day. Try to provide more light by moving your plant closer to a window with diffused light.

| think you should also cut back on the watering. Leaf yellowing may occur if the soil stays too wet. Water your plant thoroughly, but let the soil dry out somewhat between waterings. The spots may be the start of a fungal problem, so cut off those leaves to reduce the chances of spreading. The soil mix should be a well-drained houseplant mix. Rubber plants prefer

humid conditions, but will adjust to tolerate the dry air common in homes and yours should soon recover.

When you begin to see active growth, fertilize regularly with a weak solution of water-soluble houseplant fertilizer or compost tea. Plants that are in lower light should be fertilized less often. Rubber plants may grow tall and lanky indoors, so you can support them with a stake.

Q 1 would like to force Narcissus so that they are blooming around December 20 for Christmas. When should I plant them and how should I treat them until then?

A Narcissus needs to be prepared immediately because they require a minimum of 12 weeks of rooting before blooming. Plant bulbs in a pot in a light soil mix that partly covers the tips of the bulbs. Water the entire pot well with water and let it drain. Place the container in a cool place like a refrigerator or a garage for 12 weeks until you have a strong root system and one-inch sprouts. /Keep bulbs above Jreezingat between 2 and 4°C (35 to 39°F). Ed.]

Then, move the pot to a sunny location and water frequently enough to keep the soil just moist. It will take a couple of weeks for the sprouts to become blooms.

If you choose the smaller narcissus bulbs you will probably have more luck and perhaps eight weeks in cold storage will give you those Christmas blooms.

Plant Narcissus with the tips of the bulbs uncovered

Doyou have a question aboutgardening? Contact the Toronto Master Gardeners InfoLine at 416397-1345 or log on to the Q&A Forum at infogarden.ca/mastergardenerboard.htm and Ask a Master Gardener!

lllustrations: Vivien Jenkinson

Web site REVIEW

Those Lovely Houseplants

HAVE YOU EVER BEEN GIVEN a lovely plant only to be saddened some weeks later when it looks less than lovely? | have, but help is at hand by going to www.ourgardengang.com/HolidayHouseplants.htm. This is a very good article which will not only tell you how to care for that beautiful amaryllis, cyclamen, poinsettia or other houseplant but also how to bring some of them back into bloom next year.

Reviewed byJean McCluskey

Book REVIEW

Green Nature/Human Nature: The Meaning ofPlants in OurLives by Charles A. Lewis Chicago, University of Illinois Press, 1996; xii, 148 pages, US$32.95 cloth, US$15.95 paper

Nature has so many positive influences on humanity that they need to be examined more closely. In his book, Charles A. Lewis describes the psychological, sociological and physiological responses to green growing things in cities and forests as well as in horticultural therapy programs in various hospitals and institutions. He is convinced there is an evolutionary basis for the human response to plants.

Whether or not an individual is involved in the physical aspects of gardening or merely enjoys gardens visually, this universal attraction is obvious and undeniable. Using the latest research, Lewis documents how nature is intrinsically tuned into the human psyche. He suggests that this relationship enhances well-being and leads to an appreciation of the human dimension in environmental issues.

Well known as a consultant in people-plant interactions, Lewis believes that we are dependent on the plant kingdom for much more than food. One of eight books in The Environment and the Human Condition series, Green Nature/Human Nature is of major importance to anyone interested in the connection between plants and people.

Reviewed byMadge Bruce

LIFAR|NEWS

by Mara Arndt e Librarian

Great Gardening Gift Books

For the gardeners on your list (or for your own wish list!) here are some suggestions for stocking stuffers, reference books, award winners and coffee-table gems. All are available in the Trellis Shop.

TheAmerican Woodland Garden: Capturing the SpiritoftheDeciduousForest Rick Darke. $70

The Botanical Garden: Vol.1 Trees and Shrubs; Vol.2 Perennials andAnnuals. Roger Phillips & Martyn Rix. $95 per volume

Designing Gardens

ArabellaLennox-Boyd& Caroline Clifton-Mogg. $85

FlowersfortheHome:Imaginative and Easy Ways to Arrange Them Malcolm Hillier. $30

The Garden Freeman Patterson. $45

The GreaterPerfection: The Story ofthe Gardens atLes Quatre Vents Francis H. Cabot. $110

How to Get YourLawn and Garden OffDrugs, 2nd ed. Carole Rubin. $15

NewBook ofHerbs Jekka McVicar. $40

The Well-DesignedMixed Garden

Tracy DiSabato-Aust. $55

Toronto Gardener s Journal & Source Book2004

Margaret Bennet-Alder, compiler. $20

Listcreated byMaraArndt&Ruthanne Stiles

ARTISTS IN OUR MIDST

Lorraine Hunter discovers the artistic talents of three TBG staffers.

THEY SAY THAT TALENTED PEOPLE ARE often gifted in more than one area. That seems to be true for at least three staff members at the Toronto Botanical Garden, all of whom have pictures they ve painted hanging up at the office, each with a floral or gardening theme.

KAREN SLOAN / /

he bold botanical beauties and crazy rooms ofKaren Sloan, our horticultural assistant, are mainly done in acrylic on canvas. Although she studied painting at the Claude Watson School for the Arts in North York, Karen went on to major in horticulture at university. Now she works with plants at the TBG by day and paints them at night after her five-year-old son goes to sleep. Sometimes I'll paint all night on a Saturday, she says. Last year she sold 80 of her paintings and she will hold her second exhibition at the TBG from December 16 to January 12. You can check out more of Karen s paintings on her Web site at http://ca.msnusers.com/PaintedCanvasCommunity.

through art, she says. And I've also made money at it. In high school she would make pocket money by painting pictures and logos on boats and cars.

Jenny studied fine art at the University of Guelph where she picked up gigs hand painting signs and menu boards as well as drawing individual pieces of imported jewellery for a catalogue. Jenny works in various media, often embedding plaster casts of found objects into her work. She describes the painting in her office as an updated Monet or something Monet might paint today like floral patio lanterns and a bowl of blue marbles. Jenny also designs Web sites as a sideline. Her Web site is www.rhodwork.com.

ROSETTA LEUNG

enny Rhodenizer, manager of community services, has being drawing and painting since kindergarten. I've always interpreted things

he artwork above the desk of our program co-ordinator, Rosetta Leung, is a charcoal study of gardening gloves, tools and pots. Rosetta studied art through high school and likes to work in black and white as well as with watercolour. She paints mainly landscapes and still lifes.

Rosetta makes her own cards and, because she likes gardening so much, does most of her painting during the winter months when she enjoys bringing colours indoors.

Lorraine Hunter is a garden writerand member ofthe Board ofDirectors ofthe TBG as well as chairofthe Trellis Committee.

SPEAKER: MARJORIE HARRIS

WHERE: FLORAL HALL

WHEN: NovEMBER 19, 7:30 .M

TOPIC: REDISCOVERING NATIVE PLANTS OF NORTH AMERICA

IN AN INSPIRING PRESENTATION, Marjorie Harris looks at gardening with plants native to Eastern and Midwestern North America. Discover varieties of wildflowers, hardy ferns, groundcovers and grasses that have shaped the plant world. Appreciate the natural beauty and unearth the natural potential of native plants. Marjorie will share her favourites and offer ideas on incorporating native plants in garden design.

Marjorie Harris is considered one of Canada s leading garden writers. She writes a gardening column for the Globe andMail, makes speeches across the country and is editor-in-chief of

Edwards Lectures |

Annual Pre-Christmas Sale

December 9 to 24

Public - 20 per cent offall merchandise! Members - 30 per cent offall merchandise!

Bringyour membership card to receive 30 per cent offeverything, and we mean everything!

Non-members, now is a good time to take out a membership and receive 30 per cent off!

Get here early- don'tmiss out!

Gardening Life. Marjorie delights audiences with her warmth, humour, enthusiasm and spunky spirit. She has written numerous gardening books including her latest, Botanica North America: The lllustrated Guide to Our Native Plants, Their Botany, History, and the Way TheyHave Shaped Our World. Free to members; non-members $5 Book signing follows lecture

1.1 Py

SaturdayNovember 15, 2003 SundayNovember 16, 2003

Demonstrations by Members

Toronto Botanical Garden

Edwards Gardens, 777 Lawrence Ave. E

Admission $7

Information Linda 416 784 3752

For that budding or experienced gardener whohaseverything, agiftmembership to theTorontoBotanicalGarden (formerly The Civic Garden Centre) makes a wonderful holiday present.

Call 416-397-1361 or complgte this form. IwouldliketopurchaseaGiftMembershipfor

L 8 4 i o 0, CERE oo e Springtime in Scotland and *

Wordsworth's Lake District

27 March - 07 April 2004

Hosted by Marjorie Mason and Stewart Bennett

"A host ofGolden Daffodils" will greet us as we explore the land of Burns and the Scottish Borders.Culzean Castle and Gardens, Threave Gardens, Beatrix Potter's Hilltop Farm and Wordsworth's Grasmere will excite the spirit.Optional Golf, Scottish Country Dancing, History, Walking and Bird watching will complete this unique Scottish experience. Early bird pricing, if booked by 01 December, will be CAD$3,379.60 per person,double occupancy.

Chelsea Flower Show May 2004

Sissinghurst, Wisley and a London Theatre experience will be escorted by Carol Gardner.

, Garden Getawayto Cleveland September 2004.This popular annual _ Fall Tour will be escorted by Marjorie Een% Jeff Mason. Book early for this one.

Mistletoe Magic

UniqueCrafts and Plant Sale

Student - $25 Single - $40 Family - $55 (Joinfor 2years andsave 10%)

This gift is from: Name Tel.

[] My cheque is enclosed (Payable to the Toronto Botanical Garden) VISA/Mastercard #

Expiry /

F*TBG Christmas fundraising event at the Toronto Botanical Garden and Allan Gardens - December 4,5,6 or 7th - do not miss the bus! We can organize buses from outside the Metro area for your convenience.Kindly register your interest in these tours with Lorna now. Detailed itineraries are available.

Contact Lorna at 905-683-8411 fax at 905-683-6842 email Ibates@on.aibn.com @ www.gardenersworldtours.com =

ZHOLIDAY PLANT SALE

Aptimgie Link

Decorate your home, inside and out!

The Garden Auditorium will be full of plants during Mistletoe Magic

December 4 - 7,2003

- Azaleas, Cyclamens, Poinsettias, Rosemary, Topiary Ivy

- Paperwhites & Amaryllis (loose, forced, gift wrapped)

- Evergreens, Berried branches, Dogwood, Curly branches

- Wreaths, Pine and cedar garland, Pine cones

Purchase $25 worth of plants and receive a dollar-off coupon for the Trellis Shop!

There you will find many other decorating items for the do-ityourselfer or the busy hostess as well as gifts, books, and gift certificates.

As always, members receive 10 per cent off purchases over $10

A SummerRemembered IRIS WARD

November 4 to 17, Lower Link

Opening night, November 5

Iris Ward, a member of Willowdale Group ofArtists, is also art director of Hi-Rise newspaper and curator of the First Unitarian Church Gallery. Her watercolours and acrylics are cheerful and often whimsical.

WatercolourMosaic

Bayview Watercolour Society

November 5 to 16, Upper and Middle Links

Opening night, November 9

Juried originals in watercolour, acrylic and other aqueous-based media. Beautiful, vibrant selection of diverse themes.

PhotographicFineArtHighlighting Canada

DIANNE HORVATH

November 18 to December 1, Upper Link

Opening night, November 20

In her photography, Dianne Horvath captures details that others overlook to provide a fresh look at familiar places.

On Location NFLD

JEAN CAMERON BROWN

November 18 to December 1, Middle Link

Opening night, November 19

0il and acrylics painted outdoors on location.

RUDI MASSWOHL

November 18 to December 1, Lower Link

Opening night, November 20

No Limitations

KAREN SLOAN

December 16 to January 12, Upper Link

Opening night, December 18

Karen Sloan s work is both colourful and eclectic. Her paintings encompass two distinct styles and her work has been compared with that of both Georgia 0 Keeffe and Henri Matisse. This show, by an artist who is gaining international recognition, is not to be missed.

For information on Art in the Link, call Cathie Coxat416-397-1358.

Eients Galentar

What' s on atthe TorontoBotanicalGarden|

NOVEMBEHR

1

Toronto Judging Centre of the American Orchid Society

Judging, 1 p.m. Open to the public.

Information: www.s00s.ca

2

Southern Ontario Orchid Society

Meeting, Floral Hall, 12:30 pm

Information: www.s00s.ca

Greater Toronto Rose and Garden Society Meeting, 2 p.m.

Topic: Our own members speaking about their roses. For more information, contact: Marilynn Mitchener: marilynn@ca.ibm or Doreen Stanton: doreen.stanton@sympatico.ca

10

Toronto Bonsai Society

Meeting: 7 p.m.: opening seminar 8 p.m.: main event

Information: www.torontobonsai.org

Attend a meeting at no charge and see ifyou are interested in becominga member ofthe society.

11

North Toronto Horticultural Society

Meeting, 8 p.m., Floral Hall

Information: Diane Wells, 416-480-9379

15-16

Ikebana International - Water in Ikebana

22nd Annual Flower Show

Tea Room, Ginza, Door Prizes

Floral Hall and Auditorium, noon to 5 p.m.

Demonstrations by members

Admission: $7

Tickets and information: Linda Robinson, 416-784-3752

16

Geranium, Pelargonium & Fuchsia Society

Meeting, Auditorium, 1 to 4 p.m.

Information: 416-281-6399

18

Toronto Cactus & Succulent Club

Meeting, Studio 2, 7 p.m., Plants ofthe month: CephalocereusandSarcocaulon/Pelargonium (succulentones)

Main speaker: Dave Naylor

Topic: Seed Dispersal Mechanisms in Succulents

Information: 905-877-6013 ornaylor@unforgettable.com

Free introductory meeting

19

Edwards Lecture

Speaker: Marjorie Harris

Topic: Rediscovering Native Plants ofNorth America

Floral Hall, 7:30 p.m., Book signing following lecture

Admission: $5; free to members.

23

Ontario Rock Garden Society

Ontario Water Garden Society

Rhododendron Society of Canada

Combined meeting, Floral Hall

Plant sale: 12.30 p.m. Speakers: 1:30 p.m.

Speakers: Patrick Nutt, Longwood Gardens & Ellen Hornig, Seneca Hill Nursery, Alpine Plants .

Information: www.onwatergarden.com

29

Toronto Judging Centre of the American Orchid Society

Judging, 1 p.m. Open to the public.

Information: www.soos.ca

30

Southern Ontario Orchid Society

Meeting, Floral Hall, 12:30 p.m.

Information: www.soos.ca

Rhododendron Society of Canada

Meeting, Studio 1, 2 p.m. Information: 416-226-1270

DECEMBER 4-7

Mistletoe Magic

Bringing Your Home to Life

Thursday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Friday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sunday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Admission, $5 (includes one re-entryduringthe showand one demonstration), Information: 416-397-1340; infogarden.ca

8

Toronto Bonsai Society

Meeting, 7 p.m., Information: www.torontobonsai.org

Attend a meeting at no charge and see ifyou are interested in becoming a member of the society.

9-24

Trellis Shop Pre-Christmas Sale

20 per centoffall merchandise, 30 per cent offfor members

12

Canadian Chrysanthemum & Dahlia Society

Annual Christmas Potluck Supper and Elections

Members only, Information: 416-286-5798

14

Ontario Rock Garden Society Meeting, Floral Hall Plant Sale, 12.30 p.m., Speaker: 1:30 p.m.

Speaker: Liz Knowles

Topic: Corsica

Information: www.onrockgarden.com

IN & AROUND THE GTA

NOVEMBER

ROYALAGRICULTURALWINTER FAIR

National Trade Centre, Exhibition Place

Of special interest: Natural & Organics Festival Information: 416-263-3400; www.royalfair.org

DECEMBER

7 toJanuary 4, 2004

ALLAN GARDENS CONSERVATORY

Winter Wonderland Holiday Show, Theme: Jingle Bells

Sherbourne & Carlton Streets, Information: 416-392-7288; http://collections.ic.gc.ca/gardens

14 to 30 (excl. 25 & 26)

CENTENNIAL PARKCONSERVATORY

Winter Wonderland Holiday Show, Theme: Holiday Songs 151 Elmcrest Road, Information: 416-394-8543

~ SCHEDULES CAN CHANGE AFTER PRESS TIME BE

Find yur place. Happiness loves company.

t's your time and Lifestyle Retirement Communities is your kind of place in step with the way you want to live your life. Spend an afternoon exploring a favourite boutique, attending a theatre performance or taking an art class. Share your interests with friends as active as you are in a community where shopping, entertainment and public transit are at your doorstep. Spend your time doing the things you choose to do, not those you have to do. At Lifestyle, we do the work...you do the living

For more information please call Rosemarie at (416) 445-7555

CLASSIFIED ADS

Laguna Water Garden Pump & Filter System All the equipment you need for a water garden 14X10X4 ft. deep. Includes Power Jet 7000 output is 1,587 US gallons (600 liters) per hr. with a head ht. of 167 (425 cm.), Power Flow Max in water 3 stage biological filter chamber with filter media, Power Flow Filter, above water filter with lave biological media, UV Sterilizer, with 16 watt germicidal bulb. Also included hoses & quick fit couplings. Only used 1 season. New over $1,000.00, will sell for $500.00. Ed 416-440-0676.

Grow Flowers AllYear! 3 tier Floral Light Unit,40 wide. $250 416-487-1073

Escorted tour of Victoria s most Beautiful Gardens May 2004 - with Carole Charsley, Garden Consultant and Designer 7 nights superb accommodation, 5 days garden tours, pick up and return daily, sightseeing drive alongVictoria s coastline, 1 day free, lunchtime buffet at The Empress Hotel, For more details call Carole 250-385-8254

REACH 2,500 GARDENERS!

A classified ad inTrellis costs only $1 a word (1/2 price for members). To book an ad, contactJenny Rhodenizer, 416-397-1351, communication@infogarden.ca

DEADLINE FORJANUARY/FEBRUARY ISSUE OCTOBER 31,2003

SEED EXCHANGE

Ordernowfrom the TBGseed exchange and sow the seeds ofnextseason sgarden!

Thanks to the following generous donors, we have an excellent choice of seeds to offer TBG members in this year s seed exchange. Codes to our seed donors names appear to the far right of each plant description. ANDE Katy Anderson, BURS Merle Burston, COX Cathie Cox, DARR Jennifer Darrell, DAY Sonia Day, DOLB Susan Dolbey, EZYK Shari Ezyk, FADE Madeleine Fadel, GARD Jean Gardiner, GARN Ruth Garnett, GEDD Marsha Geddes, JENK Vivien Jenkinson, LEGG Anna Leggatt, LENC Joan Lenczner, ONEI Sheila O Neill, OYST John Oyston, PILO Jacqueline Pilote, ROGE Norman Rogers, ROWE Brian Rowe, WUNSJennifer Wunsch, YOUN Mary Young,

1. Abiesconcolor(Whitefir) TR to30m; handsomecones BURS

2. Agastachesp. (Hyssop) PERpurple40cm;x Golden Anniversary (?) , gold Ivs,frag, bloomswell GARN

3. Agastachesp. (Hyssop) PERpurple60cm; long-lastingtubular firsinwhorlsfrommid-summer ANDE

4. Alcearosea(Hollyhock) Blapricot175cm JENK

5. Alcea rosea (Hollyhock) BI darkpink 2m; doublefirs FADE

6. Alcearosea(Hollyhock) Bl red&white ROGE

7. Allium MountEverest (Ornamentalonion) BUwhite 1m; big heads LEGG

8. Alliumflavum(Ornamentalonion) BUyellow40cm LEGG

9. Alliumsativum (Garlic) BU white; bulblets ROGE

10. Allium schoenoprasum(Chives) BU purple30cm; edible, repelsaphidswhen nearroses ANDE

11.Alliumsenescenssubsp.montanum(Ornamentalonion) BU lavender 45cm; extendedrepeatbloomermid- latesummer ANDE

12.Alliumsp. (Ornamental onion) BU blue45cm;similarto

A. caeruleum,long-lastingsummerfirs ANDE

13. Alliumsp. (Oramental onion) BU blue ROGE

14.Alliumsp. (Ornamental onion) BU purple50cm; globesof long-lasting firs ANDE

15.Alyssoidesutriculata(Inflated bladderseed) PERyellow 40cm;wonderfuldriedseedpodsafterspring-bloomingfirs ANDE

16. Anemonemuitifida (Windflower) PERwhite-red 25cm; June, native PILO

17.Anemonesylvestris(Snowdropanemone) PERwhite40cm; May-June,sun tosemi-shade,warm limeysoil PILO

18.Anethumgraveolens(Dill)AN HERB Ityellow ROGE

Deadline for ordering seed is January 16. Please keep this list for reference as seeds will arrive with only a number marked on the packet.

Seeds are listed alphabetically by botanical name, followed by common name in brackets then plant type in capital letters as follows: AN annual, BI biennial, HERB herb, PER perennial, BU bulb, ROCK rock garden plant, SH shrub, TR tree, VI vine. A brief plant description lists flower colour, bloom time, height and distinguishing characteristics as supplied by the donors.

We cannot guarantee that seeds are true to name. Some plants may hybridize and may not be as expected. Onlylimited quantities ofsome seeds are available.

19. AngelicagigasBl purple90-120cm;Aug bloom,large umbels,attractiveseed heads,plantimmediately PILO

20. Antennarianeglectavar.gaspensis(Pussytoes) PEwhite 10cm DOLB

21.Anthemistinctoria SauceHollandaise (Goldenmarguerite) PER paleyellow75cm EZYK

22. Anthericum liliago(St. Bernard slily) BUwhite50cm; lilylikeflrs,grassyIvs,sun,well-drainedfertilesoil PILO

23.Anthriscussylvestris Ravenswing (Cow parsley) PERwhite 1.3m;elegantblacklacyfoliage,airyspringfirs ANDE,LEGG

24. Aquilegia vulgaris Nora Barlow (Granny sbonnet columbine) PER red/white75cm; double GARN

25. Aquilegia OrigamiYellow (Columbine) PERyellow; sun to shade ONEI

26.Aquilegiachrysantha(Yellowcolumbine) PERyellow 60cm; longspurs,pretty,stillflowering inAug LEGG

27.Aquilegiasp.(Columbine) PERdeeppink 1m; prolific bloomer, clumpforming ANDE

28. Aquilegiasp. (Columbine) PERpink50-70cm; shortlived, self-seeds JENK

29.Arisaematriphyllum(Jack-in-the-pulpit) BUgreen/purple 30cm; wild,York Region LEGG

30. Asclepias incarnata (Swamp milkweed) PER pink 100cm OYST

31. Belamcandachinensis(Blackberrylily) PERorange70cm; spottedflrs,attractive blackseeds,sun,good drainage,July BURS

32. Campanulalatifoliaalba(Bellflower) PERwhite75cm; up-facing bells,touch ofdark blueinthecentre LEGG

33. Campanulapersicifoliavar. alba(Peach-leaved bellflower) PERwhite 45-60cm; summertofall OYST

34. Cannasp. (Indian shot) BU red 80cm; dwarfform GARN

35. Centaureasp. (Bachelor s buttons) AN blue & pink 30cm; sun/partshade DARR

36. Cerinthe major Purpurascens AN purple 75cm; exotic purple&chartreuseIvs GARN

37. Clematisrectapurpurea(Clematis) PERwhite 1.5m; purplefoliage LEGG

38. Clematistibetanasubsp. vernayi OrangePeel (Clematis)VIyellow3m;discard thosewith inferiorfirs LEGG

39. Clematisviorna(Bluevirgin s bower)VI pink2m; urn shapedwiththickpetals,cream inside LEGG

40. Clematisviticella Abundance (Clematis)VI burgundy 23m; burgundyto red, lateJune to Sept BURS

41. Clematisviticella(Clematis)VI purple 2m; covered with delicatedown-facing bells LEGG

42, Cleome Helen Campbell (Spiderflower)AN GEDD

43. Cleome(Spiderflower)AN purple GEDD

44. Coreopsistinctoria [?) (Calliopsis) AN yellow 30-100cm ROGE

45. Crocosmiamasoniorum(Montbretia) BU red 70cm; cultivatelikegladiolus,hardyin Scarborough GARN

46. Cynaracardunculus(Cardoon) PERmauve90-160cm; zone7,dramaticsilver-whitethistlelvs COX

47. Cynoglossumamabile(Chineseforget-me-not)AN blue 45¢m; electricblue GARD

48. Daturasp.AN YOUN

49. Delphinium(Delphinium) PER blue ROGE

50. Delphinium tatsienense(Delphinium) PER blue 50cm; short-lived buteasyfromseed PILO

51. Dianthus barbatus(SweetWilliam) PER fuchsia 50cm; v. darkcolour, sun to partial shade FADE

52. Dianthusbarbatus(SweetWilliam) PERpink50cm; sun to partial shade FADE

53. Dianthus barbatus (SweetWilliam) PER red &white 50cm ROGE

54. Dianthussp. (Pink) PER white 30cm; large frilly petals LEGG

55. Dianthussp. (Pink) PERwhite20cm; bluefoliage DOLB

56. Dictamnus albus(Gas plant) PER white 60-90cm; aromatic leavesand stem PILO

57. Digitalisgrandifiora Dropmore Yellow (Yellowfoxglove)PER yellow60cm;v. hardy,July-Septbloom,partshade,moistsoil ANDE

58. Echinaceapurpurea (Coneflower) PER purple 1m; midsummerto earlyautumn bloom on strong stems ANDE

59. Echinaceapurpurea RubyStar (Coneflower) PER magenta-red,to 1m;flatpetals,deepercolourthan Magnus EZYK

60. Echinaceapurpurea WhiteSwan (Coneflower) PERwhite 1m; largewhitefirs,green/brown cone,decorativeseed heads BURS,EZYK

61. Echinops(Globethistle) PERblue ROGE,GARD

62. Eryngiumgiganteum(MissWillmott'sGhost) PER silver-blue 1-3m;see 7rellispg24 LEGG

63. Foeniculumvulgarevar. azoricum Rubrum (Fennel) PER yellow 1.5-2m; lovely bronzefilagree foliage, licorice scent,AugSept BURS

64. Geumjaponica(Avens) PERyellow 50cm; nice clumpof large leaveswithfirson tall stems ANDE

65. Gillenia trifoliata(Bowman sroot) PER pink-white,to 1m; semi-shade,moistacid-neutral soil,elegant,easyfrom seed PILO 606. GlaucidiumpalmatumPERpink50cm;choiceJapanese woodlander,stratify,onlycotyledons1styear LEGG

67. Helenium Coppelia (Sneezeweed) PERcoppery bronze 110cm;July-Sept,waterwell in summer EZYK

68. Heleniumhoopesii(Sneezeweed) PERorange 1m; large leaves, early bloom DOLB

69. Helianthus LemonQueen (Sunflower)AN yellow 1.75m; brightyellowflrs,multiple heads WUNS

70. Heliopsis Loraine Sunshine (Ox eye) PERyellow 1m; variegatedcream-whitefoliage,darkgreenveins,June-SeptEZYK

71. Hemerocallis Little Missy (Daylily) PER purple 40cm; whiteedges,greenthroat DOLB

72. Hemerocallis Stella de Oro (Daylily) PER yellow 40cm ROGE

73. Hemerocallis thunbergii(Daylily) PERyellow 1m; species daylily DOLB

74. Hibiscusmoscheutos Blue River (Common rose mallow) PER white 1.5m; Southern Bell type,flrs20-25cm in sun ROWE

75. Impatiensbalsamina(Touch-me-not)AN lilac,pink4560cm JENK

76. Impatienswalleriana(BusyLizzie)AN, lilac,red,white, pink25-30cm JENK

77. Ipomoeasp. (Morning glory) ANVI mix, pink, blue,whitew. stripes, pink bloomstill afternoon,to 4m LEGG

78. Ipomoea quamoclit(Starglory)ANVI red3m;quarter-sized firs,dissectedlvs COX,LEGG

79. Ipomopsisrubra (Standingcypress,Texasplume) Blred 100+cm; sm. fernyclumpsoverwinter,well-drained soil,attracts hummingbirds LEGG

80. Iristectorum(Roofiris) PERblue30-60 cm; lovelyblue flrs, easyfrom seed BURS

81. KitaibelavitifoliaPERwhite3m; open cup-shaped 5-petalledflrs,mid-summer-earlyfall,monster,full sun GARN

82. Lavatera WhiteAngel (Tree mallow) SH pale pink2 x 1m; cut backto 15cm in spring EZYK

83. Leucanthemumx superbum (Shasta daisy) PERwhite 1m ROGE

84. Liatrisspicata(Blazingstar,Gayfeather) PERpink60-100cm; excellentcutanddriedfirs,densefirspikes ANDE,LEGG

85. Liliumlongiflorum(Easterlily) BUwhite 1m;Julyblooms secondyearfromseed GARD

86. Liliummartagonvar. album(Commonturkscaplily) BU white80-100cm;earlysummer, bettereachyear BURS

87. Linumperenne[?) (Perennialflax) PERblue30-60cm; sunpartial shade, rebloomsifcut backafter 1stfirs DARR

88. Lobeliasiphilitica(Bluecardinalflower) PER blue75cm; prefersmoist JENK

89. Lupinussp.(Lupin) PERdeepred 80cm DOLB

90. Luzulanivea (Snowywoodrush) PERwhite 25-40cm; June toAug,goodcutting PILO

91. Lychnischalcedonica(Maltesecross) PERscarlet1.2m; star-shapedflrs,rebloom ifdeadheaded ANDE,ROGE

92. Lychniscoronaria(Rosecampion)PERwhite40cm;woolly silverfeltedrosettes,pinkeye,deadheadforrebloom BURS

93. Lychnisviscaria(Germancatchfly) PERpink60cm; good fordryspotsin sunorshade DOLB

94. Malvasylvestris MysticMerlin (Cheeses) PERpurple 2.5m; pink-purple edgedw. deep purpleorpurplewith violet edge DAY

95. Muscarilatifolium(Grape hyacinth) PER blue25cm; bicoloured light&v.darkblue LEGG

96. Myrrhisodorata (SweetCicely) HERB PER (BI?)white 100cm; anise-scentedfoliage, plantimmediately PILO

97. Nicotianasp. (Tobaccoplant) GEDD

98. Nicotianasylvestris(Tobaccoplant)ANwhite 1.5m; hangingfirclusters GARN

99. Nicotianasylvestris(Tobacco plant)AN white, to2.5m; spraysofwhiteflrs,hugeIvs DAY

100. Nigelladamascena(Love-in-a-mist)AN mix30cm;It & dk blue,white,interestingseedpods,easy,self-seeds BURS,COX

101. Nigelladamascena(Love-in-a-mist)ANwhite50cm; sun-partial shade, easy, self-seeds FADE

102. Oenothera biennis(Eveningprimrose) Blyellow 1.5-2m; night-scented,watchthemopenatdusk!! BURS,JENK

103. Oenothera triloba (Stemlesseveningprimrose) Blyellow 20cm; largeflowersopen in secondsatdusk LEGG

104. Onopordumacanthium(Scotchthistle) BIpurple 4-5m; spectacular stemsand Ivscovered with white hairs GARN

105. Paeonia masculasubsp. mascula(Peony) PER rose-pink 60-100cm;June, beautiful (fewseeds) BURS

106. Papaverlateritium FlorePleno (Poppy) PERsoftorange 50-60cm; double,deadheadforrebloom BURS

107. Papaversomniferum (Opium poppy) AN mix60cm; pink,

mauve,singles&doubles DARR

108. Papaversomniferum(Opium poppy)AN purple; to 1m; single DAY

109. Papaversomniferum (Opium poppy) AN purple; to 1m; double DAY

110. Papaversomniferum(Opiumpoppy)AN red50-70cm; double DAY,GEDD,GARN

111. Papaversp. (Poppy)AN red ROGE

112. Pennisetumglaucum Purple Majesty (Pearl millet)AN purple 1m +; purple Ivs, spectacularifwell grown LEGG

113. Penstemonbarbatus Rondo (Beardlippenstemon) PER pinkshades40cm LEGG

114. Penstemonbarbatus(Beardlippenstemon) PER pink 60cm; well-drained soil LEGG

115. Penstemondigitalis Husker Red PERwhite75¢cm; reddishIvs,semi-evergreen rosettes,summerflr ANDE

116. Penstemonhirsutusvar. pygmaeusROCKwhite20cm; well-drained soil LEGG

117. Penstemon hirsutusvar. pygmaeusROCK pinkish 20cm;well-drainedsoil LEGG

118. Penstemonhirsutusvar. pygmaeusROCKlilac/white 20cm; well-drainedsoil LEGG

119. Petroselinumcrispumvar. neapolitanum(ltalianparsley) HERB/BI 80cm JENK

120. Physalisalkekengi(Chineselantern) PERwhite-green 1m ROGE

121. Physostegiavirginiana(Obedientplant) PERpurple 60cm;fallfir OYST

122. Physostegia virginiana Summer Snow (Obedientplant) PERwhite Im JENK

123. Platycodongrandiflorus(Balloonflower) PER blue 10cm; normal-sized firs LEGG

124. Platycodongrandiflorus(Balloonflower) PERwhite 60cm;firswholesummer OYST

125. Potentilla rupestris(Rock cinquefoil) PERwhite 20cm; preferspoor, gritty, sharplydrained soil ANDE

126. Primulasp. (Primrose) PER mixed pinks30-40cm; candelabra types LEGG

127. Primulajaponica (Japanese primrose) PER red 30cm; 14-40 daystogerminate JENK

128. Primulasieboldii(Primrose) PERmixpink,red,lilac, white30cm;June,semi-shade,woodsysoil PILO

129. Primulaveris(Cowslip) yellow20cm LEGG

130. Rudbeckiasp. (Black-eyed Susan) PER BI [?) red ROGE

131. Rudbeckia Cherokee Sunset (Black-eyed Susan) PER yellow-brown Im DAY

132. Rudbeckia triloba (Brown-eyed Susan) Bl yellow/black

1-1.5mwell branchedstems,summer/fall LEGG

133. Rumexsanguineusvar. sanguineus(Bloodydock) PER to 90cm; red stems, green leaveswith red veins OYST

134. Rutagraveolens(Commonrue) PERyellow1 m;airy blue-greenfoliage,summerflrs,easy ANDE

135. Rutagraveolens(Commonrue) PERyellow80cm DOLB

136. Salviacoccinea Coral Nymph (Texas sage) AN pink 40cm; long bloom, summer-fall on slender, open terminal spikes ANDE, GARD

137. Salvia coccinea LadyinRed (Texassage)AN red60cm; long bloom summer-fall on slender,open terminal spikes ANDE, GARN,GARD

138. Salvianemorosa(Sage) PER blue 1m JENK

139. Salvia transylyanica(Transylvanian sage) PER blue90cm; bloomsmostofsummer LEGG

140. Sambucusnigra(Blackelder) SHwhite6m; blackfruit, attractsbirds,deliciousjelly JENK

141. Scabiosajaponicavar.alpina (Pinchusionflower) PER blue 15cm;firsall summerifdeadheaded ANDE

142. Silphiumperfoliatum(Cupplant) PERyellow 1.5-3.5m; sun COX,DARR

143. Sisyrinchiumgraminoides(Blue-eyedgrass) PER blue 15cm LENC

144. Tagetessp. (Marigold)AN yellow ROGE

100. Tanacetumparthenium Aureum (Feverfew) PERwhite 10cm; gold lvs GARN

145. Tellimagrandiflora(Fringecups) PERcream 1m; robust, early summer bloom DOLB

146. Thalictrumminus(Lessermeadowrue) PERyellow/green 90cm; fern-like Ivs, loose summer panicles ANDE

147. Thalictrum rochebruneanum(Meadow rue) PER pink 1-2m; delicatefirs GARN

148. Thermopsisvillosa(Carolinalupin) PERyellow30-150cm; longtaproot,sun-partshade DARR

149. Tulipa kaufmanniana Fashion (Waterlilytulip) BU white/orange30cm;fabulousbrightmulti-fird earlyblooming multiplier ANDE

150. Tulipasylvestris(Tulip) BUyellow30cm; starryfirs LEGG

151. Tulipa tarda(Tulip) BU yellow/white 10-20cm; early, white-tippedstarryyellow blooms,self-seeding,easy BURS, PILO

152. Tulipa urumiensis(Tulip) BU yellow 10cm LEGG

153. [Unknown plant]AN lemon yellow 60cm; bushy, sun-partial shade, lightfragrance FADE

154, Verbascumchaixii(Nettle-leavedmullein) BlwhiteIm DAY

155. Verbascum olympicum(Mullein) Bl yellow2.5m;firsin candelabras DAY

156. Verbascumphoeniceum(Purplemullein) Blpurple 45cm DAY

157. Verbascumx hybridum Snow Maiden (Mullein) PER white 1-2m; may be Bl GARN

158. Verbena bonariensis(Verbena) AN purple 2m; easy, super, ping-pong ball-like blossoms bounce in breeze GARD

159. Veronicaschmidtiana(Speedwell) PERmauve20cm; dainty, prettyflowersand leaves DOLB

160.Zinniasp.AN red80cm; startindoorsApril 7 ROGE

Ordersarefilled intheorderreceived,with donors getting first choice.You may order NAME ((PLEASEPRIN4 upto20 packetsofseed. Pleasewritethe numbers clearly in the boxes at left in A ascending numerical order.To have the seedsshipped, send theform along with a any POSTAL CODE SASE largeenoughtoholdyourorderand a $6 cheque (payable toToronto Botanical TELEPHONE MEMBERSHIP # Garden) for handling. If you plan to pick up your seeds, send the form with a selfaddressed envelope large enough to hold sms

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