Mystic Garden Club Blog

We've Relocated

2010-06-01T08:03:00.000-04:00

The Mystic Garden Club blog has been integrated into the website.

To see the latest posts go to

www.mysticgardenclub.org

Blooming in Mary Ann Little's garden.....

2009-05-29T09:07:00.005-04:00

Daffodils & Crocuses

2009-04-14T06:56:00.002-04:00

These crocuses photographed by Valerie Grimm in her garden are spectacular - a sure sign of spring.

The daffodils along Shinny's stone wall are certainly a beautiful sign of spring.

Norah Lindsay: The Life and Art of a Garden Designer

2009-03-30T10:11:00.002-04:00

Our April 28th Meeting is guest day so be sure to invite an interested friend for our excellent program. Allyson Hayward will be speaking about Norah Lindsay (1873-1948)

Lecture BIO Allyson Hayward

Allyson Hayward is an internationally acclaimed garden historian, who writes and lectures extensively on topics related to gardens and their history. She is a graduate of the Landscape Institute of Harvard University, and for several years served as Chairman of the New England Garden History Society. In 2003, she was awarded a Gold Medal by the Massachusetts Horticultural Society for her work in promoting New England’s garden history.

Allyson’s interest in Norah Lindsay started while she was still a student at the Landscape Institute. This interest turned into a passion as she retraced the footsteps of Norah Lindsay through the gardens and estates of England. Her research represents more than ten years of travel and delving into private and public archives in both the UK and the US.

Her recent book, Norah Lindsay: The Life and Art of a Garden Designer, has been widely and positively reviewed, including in the London Financial Times, Daily Telegraph, British Vogue, the Washington Post, Baltimore Sun, Boston Globe, Town & Country, and many more. Since the book’s release, Allyson has lectured throughout England and Wales, and extensively from California to the East Coast.

Noted garden historian and garden writer, Lady Mary Keen wrote in the British magazine, The Spectator: “It has taken an American to recognize Norah Lindsay’s worth and Allyson Hayward has done her proud”.

For more information visit the website at http://www.norahlindsay.com/

March Meeting Fabulous Photos

2009-03-26T10:28:00.003-04:00

Our March meeting featured fabulous nature photography by Todd Gipstein a National Geographic photographer.

From 2009_03_24_MGC_Meeting

For more photos visit Picasaweb

Asian Longhorn Bark Beetle

2009-03-24T14:15:00.007-04:00

Joan Allen from UConn Home And Garden Education Center will be speaking to our club on May 25, 2010 on the devastation caused by this preditor insect. You can read more in this New York Times Article.

A photo of the Asian Bark Beetle

March Meeting Speaker - Todd Gipstein

2009-03-14T11:51:00.002-04:00

A Feast for The Eyes

Our March Meeting speaker is Todd Gipstein - renowned photographer and media specialist - "committed to continuing his long career of creating elegant, emotional shows that touch a responsive chord in viewers. In short, 'media with a message. "

You can see Todd's work and read more about him on his website www.Gipstein.com.

Quoting his history from his website:

A LITTLE HISTORY:

Todd Gipstein has been working as a photographer, writer, producer and lecturer for more than thirty years.

He studied writing and film at Harvard University, where he graduated with honors in 1974. After working for Time-Life Multi-Media in New York, he started Gipstein Multi-Media in Boston in 1975. There he created numerous multi-image shows for museums and corporate clients. His writing included scripts, magazine articles and columns. He also travelled extensively as a photographer.

In 1989, he moved to Washington, D.C. to work full-time as the Director of Multi-Image / Executive Producer for the National Geographic Society. His work for National Geographic included writing and producing shows about geography, history, nature, cultures, photography, environmental issues and the Geographic. His work provided him opportunities for travels around the world as a photographer and lecturer. He also worked with Vice-President Al Gore on media related to environmental issues.Though the topics of his documentaries have been extremely varied, Todd has tended to focus on projects dealing with history and culture. He has been very successful at bringing the past to life and making it relevant to contemporary audiences.
Todd's photographic archives include approximately 250,000 images. His work is currently represented by the National Geographic Society, Getty Images, and by Corbis.

Todd has lectured across the United States and around the world on topics as diverse as Machu Picchu, the Panama Canal, Venice, photography, visual communication, geography and history.

Over the years, his productions have won more than 40 gold awards in media festivals. His work has also garnered a dozen grand-prizes in international competitions. He is a member of the Association for Multi-Media International's Producers' Hall of Fame, and he has also received several lifetime achievement awards.

In 2005, Gipstein Multi-Media moved to Groton, Connecticut. Todd continues to photograph on contract for National Geographic. He has his own production studio where, along with his wife Marcia, he creates compelling original media presentations in a variety of formats. Todd continues to lecture and teach. He is always looking for new challenges and forums to explore storytelling media. He is committed to continuing his long career of creating elegant, emotional shows that touch a responsive chord in viewers. In short, "media with a message."

February Meeting

2009-03-09T19:27:00.003-04:00

Stony shared some great photos of the February Meeting.

Brussels in Bloom

2009-03-08T00:20:00.004-05:00

Click on the images to enlarge

Craftsmen arrange the flowers by hand, directly onto the square's cobblestones, without any soil. Grass and tree bark are also used to provide color.

Story submitted by Jane Bogdan.

Rooms and Blooms: A Mystic House and Garden Tour

2009-02-05T22:40:00.007-05:00

June 20, 2009 - 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Presented by the Mystic Garden Club and the Mystic River Historical Society

Two long-standing Mystic community organizations are joining forces to offer Rooms and Blooms: A Mystic House and Garden Tour for one day only, Saturday, June 20, 2009 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. This is a rare opportunity to view historic and unusual homes and gardens in Mystic. As this is a walking tour, it gives participants a chance to soak up the unique flavor and wonderful river views that are just two of the reasons why so many sea captains, artists and early entrepreneurs chose to live in this magical area.

Tour Description

Houses and gardens featured on the tour are on Gravel Street (formerly known as Captain’s Row), Eldredge Street, Park Place, Pearl Street, Grove Street, Clift Street and Starr Street. The area was originally granted to the Burrows family in 1654. In the early 1800s, Amos Clift acquired much of the property and began developing it by laying out the streets and selling lots. After he died in 1819, his wife Thankful and sons Amos and David continued to build many houses in the area, some of which are on the tour. Newer homes in the neighborhood will be featured as well. Many of the older homes have undergone extensive renovation to their interiors and their gardens, and are an example of how we are making history even today.

As an added attraction, there will be a boutique featuring a small number of local garden suppliers, artisans and more.

Parking and Getting Around

Parking will be available at various nearby locations, and there will be several jitneys running throughout the day. Mystic Community Bikes will make their free bicycles available (with a $10 refundable deposit for bike, lock and helmet). Ticket holders may begin at any house or garden on the tour (each will have a special tour sign outside) and pick up their tour booklets at any location.

Lunch

Mystic has a number of excellent restaurants within walking distance of the houses on tour. St. Mark’s Church on Pearl Street is offering a boxed lunch featuring your choice of a variety of sandwiches for $10. Proceeds go to the St. Luc’s Church and School in Haiti. All boxes must be ordered in advance by calling Cally Evers at 860-536-0126 before June 6.

Tickets

Tickets are $22 in advance and $30 on the day of the tour. Tickets may be purchased in person with cash or check at Bank Square Books, 53 West Main Street, Mystic and The Whaler’s Inn, 20 East Main Street, Mystic.

To purchase on-line, click the Buy Now button [PayPal button].

Or you may download an order form here and mail it with your payment.

Pre-purchased ticket sales end June 19. Any ticket purchased by mail received after June 5 will be held at our Ticket Tent on Gravel Street on the day of the tour.

For more information, email info@mystichistory.org or call (860) 271-3980.

February 24 Meeting Speaker

2009-02-04T13:23:00.002-05:00

Cheryl Thevenet - "Japanese Ikebona"

Cheryl Thevenet has been a member of the Mystic Garden Club since 1996. Cheryl has had a lifelong interest in flowers and gardening. She lived Marin and owned and operated a successful design Atelier in San Francisco. She specialized in corporate events, producing gala gatherings for the likes of Fetzers Winery, Mumms Vineyards, Hewlett Packard Corporation, Visa Corporation, The French biscuit company “LU”, and “Art Bash for Hot Trash” a Santa Fe Event for commercial artists.

Cheryl’s interest in Japanese floral design dates to 1982 when she began her first formal instruction in the Sogetsu School of Ikebana in San Francisco. Her course of studies was directed by Soho Sakai and continued for nearly a decade. Following marriage and relocation to Tokyo, Japan, Cheryl pursued further studies at the world’s center for Sogetsu Ikebana. Cheryl completed the requirement to obtain a teaching certificate during her residency in Hong Kong. During her four years of residency in China, Cheryl exhibited at several international shows and collaborated in the floral design for the Italian Institute of Hong Kong’s Armani opening of Italian Fashion. The display work involved the arrangement and presentation of 24,000 red roses.

Following her return to America, Cheryl next earned her certification as a Connecticut Master Gardener. She has volunteered her skills to help further various community initiatives that have ranged from the Voluntown Peace Trust’s organic community garden, to habitat a garden at the Voluntown Elementary School, and teaching seed propagation to the conservation initiative, “Women in the Outdoors”. Cheryl is presently enrolled in a course of studies with the National Garden Club’s Environmental Study School at Yale University. Cheryl will be part of the first graduating class here in Connecticut. She is married and lives with her husband and 2 teenaged boys, in Voluntown., Ct.

Upcoming Cape Cod Horticultural Conference

2009-01-21T09:01:00.000-05:00

Cape Cod Horticultural Conference Sponsored by the Cape Cod Cooperative Extension and the Master Gardeners Association of Cape Cod.
Saturday April 4th 2009, from 8:30 AM to 4 PM
Held at the Barnstable Performing Arts Center, Barnstable High School, 744 Main Street, Hyannis, MA Cost $45.00 All paid registrations received before March 13th will include lunch. Walk-in registrations welcome on the day of the event, but these will not include lunch.
Speakers: Bill Cullina “What the Heck Will Grow Here?”
Native plants for difficult situations.
Mal Condon “Hydrangeas, Hydrangeas”All about hydrangeas including new & over-looked varieties.
Alan Armitage “Crazy Plants for Crazy People”Annuals and perennials to add pizzazz to your garden.
To receive registration materials call the Cape Cod Cooperative Extension 508-375-6690 during business hours.
Plant sale, door prizes and book signing by the speakers. For more information call: 508-375-6690 OR DOWNLOAD REGISTRATION FORMS AND MATERIALS AT WWW.CAPECODEXTENSION.ORG

The FRESH Report

2009-01-13T11:10:00.002-05:00

The Mystic Garden Club supports local organizations and one of the things supported is FRESH. You can learn more about FRESH on their website http://www.freshnewlondon.org/

or click here for their latest newsletter.

You will read about the FRESH Youth Program, The FRESH Community Garden, The FRESH Educational Programs and the FRESH Mobile Market.

Coming in June

2009-01-11T19:05:00.001-05:00

Rooms and Blooms
Saturday, June 20, 2009
A Mystic House and Garden Tour

A Gardener's Version of the Night Before Christmas

2008-12-30T18:11:00.002-05:00

Submitted by Richard Jauron, Horticulture Department.
Adapted from TheGardener, November-December, 1983

'Twas the night before Christmas and all through the yard
the branches were bare and the ground frozen hard;
The roses were dormant and mulched all around
to protect them from damage if frost heaves the ground.
The perennials were nestled all snug in their beds
while visions of 5-10-5 danced in their heads.
The new-planted shrubs, had been soaked by the hose
to settle their roots for the long winter's doze;
And out on the lawn, the new fallen snow
protected the roots of the grasses below.
When what to my wondering eyes should appear
but a truck full of gifts of gardening gear.
Saint Nick was the driver - the jolly old elf
and he winked as he said, "I'm a gardener myself.
I've brought wilt-pruf, rootone, and gibberellin, too.
Please try them and see what they do.
To start new plants, a propagating kit.
Sparkling new shears, for the old apple tree.
To seed your new lawn, I've a patented sower;
in case it should grow, here's a new power mower.
For seed-planting days, I've a trowel and a dibble,
and a roll of wire mesh if the rabbits should nibble.
For the feminine gardener, some gadgets she loves;
plant stakes, a sprinkler, and waterproof gloves;
A chemical agent for the compost pit,
and for pH detecting, a soil testing kit.
With these colorful flagstones, lay a new garden path,
for the kids to enjoy, and bird feeder and bath.
And last but not least, some well-rotted manure.
A green Christmas year round, these gifts will ensure."
Then jolly Saint Nick, having emptied his load,
started his truck and took to the road.
And I heard him exclaim through the motor's loud hum
"Merry Christmas to all, and to all a green thumb!"

The Greens Sale Opens Tomorrow

2008-12-04T17:04:00.004-05:00

The ladies have been working diligently all fall with the whole club participating in the week long preparations leading up to the Greens Sale. This is the Mystic Garden Club's 36th Annual Greens Sale. The wreaths, centerpieces and boxwood trees have been multiplying every day. All of the presale orders have been delivered and the walls are filled with beautiful decorated wreaths. There are still plenty of plain wreaths and supplies for our designers to make a custom wreath. The slideshow is of some of the wreaths that have been created by our talented designers.
The Mystic Garden Club Greens Sale is Friday, Dec. 5, noon to 3 PM and Sat. Dec. 6 - 9 AM to 2 PM at the Mystic Arts Center.

36th Annual Greens Sale

2008-11-28T10:45:00.001-05:00

Preparations are in full swing for the 2008 Mystic Garden Club Greens Sale. Be sure to read the Mystic Times article - if you missed it in print you can see it on line by clicking here

Come and get your decorated wreath from our designers - it will be the loveliest you can find anywhere. Only first class materials are used and you can chose the motif that suits you - anything from natural materials to gold balls and ribbons.

November Meeting

2008-11-18T21:31:00.006-05:00

Bill Graham was a terrific hit at our November meeting. He is funny and captivating and wonderfully talented. Everything he does looks effortless while he is engaging in a funny, conversational patter that makes you feel like he's your long time buddy. It was a delightful time. He set the stage by creating an ensemble with wonderful accessories from his shop, Beautiful Things in Salem, MA. He then created a coordinating centerpiece.

Earth Friendly

2008-11-16T08:06:00.004-05:00

The Mystic Garden club is taking steps to be friendly to the environment. Barbara Tacy has been presenting information on packaging, helping us to differentiate between packaging which is recyclable and which is not. Members are encouraged to stop purchasing items which are encased in non-recyclable materials. The impermeable plastic wrapping called "clamshell" packaging is both frustrating and non-recyclable.

The major retailer, Amazon.com has joined with its suppliers to eliminate the very frustrating "clamshell" packaging.

The New York Times reported ..

In Amazon’s “frustration-free packaging” initiative involving Mattel, its subsidiary Fisher-Price, Microsoft and Transcend, an electronics maker, the companies will ship some of their best-selling products to Amazon in cardboard boxes that don’t fight back.

These cardboard boxes are also recyclable. You can read the whole article at Packages You Won't Need a Saw to Open.

Members are also encouraged to use re-usable shopping bags. (See our blog article Going Green - ReUsable Shopping Bags)

The Mystic Garden Club sells reusable, Earth Friendly shopping bags.

The photo below shows the items presented to identify as recyclable or non-recyclable.

The items on the left can be recycled while the ones on the right must go in the trash or be reused.

November Speaker - Bill Graham

2008-11-05T13:23:00.000-05:00

Bill Graham lives on the North Shore of Massachusetts, and is the owner of Beautiful Things in historic Salem, Massachusetts.
His shop specializes in creative floral design, interesting gifts, whimsical items, women's accessories, millinery (hats and fascinators), some men's items and selected Halloween merchandise including his widely popular "witches" hats which he decorates. It is also the home of "The Girls" which are handmade dolls with a little flair and a little of Salem's magic. Remember, Salem is the world capitol of Halloween!
Bill delights in creating different and unique designs. He likes the challenge of trying new ideas and innovative techniques. His prior education in Art and his retailing experience have strengthened his ability to stay in tune with current market trends in the world of flowers, fashions, gifts, etc.
Bill is recognized in the floral world as a professional designer, commentator, educator, instructor, motivator, innovator and facilitator. He has assisted and, contributed to organizations that fundraise for worthy causes such as the Women's Friends Society, the Peabody Essex Museum ,the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, the Hospice of the North Shore and benefits for AIDS Research and Breast Cancer. He contributed many hours to the AIDS Hospice of Mission Hill with floral entertainments for patients and families .
Bill is a longtime member of the prestigious American Institute of Floral Designers (AIFD), the American Academy of Florists (AAF) and the Professional Floral Commentators International. The latter is a designation usually enjoyed by one hundred individuals in the floral industry. Consequently, when you receive his business card, it reads: Bill Graham AIFD,MF, PFCI.
Bill is a member of the Danvers Garden Club, Danvers,. MA, the Lowell Garden Club, Lowell, MA, and honorary member of the Salem Garden Club, Salem, MA. He was most recently honored by the Massachusetts Federation of Garden Clubs with a Lifetime Membership Award.
Bill has informed and entertained so many Garden Clubs, other organizations, and industry-related groups that there are too many to list. Bill has many suggestions for different programs, some widely welcomed by all and some tailored for specific organization's needs. He is an entertainer and a humorist and loves sharing his ideas, anecdotes, and delightful stories. He listens to you as well, and sometimes you become a part of the program. That gives you a glimpse of Bill Graham ' s world. Bill believes that "LIFE IS NOT A DRESS REHEARSAL!" Enjoy!!

October Meeting - A Seasonal Tapestry

2008-10-31T08:13:00.002-04:00

The demonstration by Kymrie Zaslow was enjoyed by everyone at the October meeting. The luncheon was delightful and many people asked for the recipes for the Squash Soup and the Almond Tarts.

Chelsea Gardens Foundation presents Paul Tukey

2008-10-21T19:28:00.001-04:00

The Chelsea Gardens Foundation is proud to present a speaking program featuring Mr. Paul Tukey on October 28, at 7 pm on the campus of Norwich free Academy.

Cartoons & Cocktails

2008-10-14T16:33:00.002-04:00

The Mystic & Noank Library is presenting
Bob Englehart
Editorial Cartoonist for the Hartford Courant
on Friday, October 24 at 6:30 PM
Call for reservations - 572-8191

October Meeting Presentation - Kymrie A. Zaslow

2008-10-06T19:47:00.001-04:00

Our upcoming October Meeting Presentation is "A Seasonal Tapestry" by Kymrie A. Zaslow.

Award winning designer Kymrie Zaslow began her floral design career in 1991 having designed and worked in shops in Ohio and Connecticut. Her experience covers retail flower shops, mass market floral management, design education, and the handling of both fresh and permanent florals.
In 1996, Kymrie was inspired to open a unique warehouse showroom, The Floral Gallery, Inc. She serviced her client’s needs in the areas of custom home floral décor, party planning, bridal design, and decorative painting. In the spring of 2006 she closed her retail showroom and directed her talents toward freelance designing, lecturing and education.
Kymrie’s extensive industry experience, as well as her membership in The Federated Garden Clubs of CT and West Hartford Garden Club, has given her the opportunity to share her knowledge and passion as an educator, lecturer, and guest designer. In April 2005 she became a National Garden Club Accredited Judge. She is also a member of Creative Arrangers of CT and Creative Floral Arrangers of the Americas. She has designed live on WVIT Channel 30 and had her designs and ideas published in CT Bride, Hartford, and Living in West Hartford magazines.
Intrigued by a broad spectrum of creative challenges, Kymrie has recently put her talents to work on designing landscapes and theatrical costumes. Over the years she has also graciously lent her time and talent to the Wadsworth Athenaeum, New Britain Museum of American Art, CT Children’s Medical Center, Mark Twain House, Noah Webster House, Wethersfield Historical Society, Hartford Public Library, Premier Dance Theater Company, and many other charitable and community organizations.
Kymrie resides in West Hartford with her husband Robert and two young children, Sophia and David.

Save Your Seeds

2008-10-05T11:23:00.006-04:00

One of the new items we are creating in the Greens Sale workshops is a decorative packet of seeds which can be hung on your tree as a decoration with artwork created by Jane Bogdan. Members are asked to collect seeds from their garden to place in these packets. Please identify the seeds.

The following seed collection instructions are from the website Flower Garden News

Click here for a printable version of these instructions.

SAVING YOUR OWN SEEDS
If you'd like to collect seeds from your flower gardens here is a basic method I use to save my seeds.
Step 1 Getting started:
Throughout the growing season I allow flowers to go to seed; producing seed heads or seed pods. Than I let the seed heads dry out as much as possible while still on the plant. Weather permitting of course.
Step 2 Collecting seeds:
Before the pods break open, are eaten by birds, or risk of frost and winter weather starts I will collect the dried seed pods from the plants on a dry sunny day. I carefully cut or break off the seed heads from the plants with a container in the other hand to catch any seeds or seed pods that may fall.
If collecting seeds from many different plants at once; it is a good idea to collect them in separate envelopes or containers with a quick label for each to remind yourself what seed is from what plant!
Step 3 Drying seeds:
After collecting the seeds I usually place them in a ventilated box or container to dry out completely. I keep the box outside in a warm and dry spot. So if drying outside try to keep them protected from wind, wet weather, and rodents.Some seeds will dry out faster than others. I always make sure that any seeds that I'm
ready to store are completely dry. This prevents rotting and minimizes the possibility of mold.
Step 4 Preparing seeds for storage:
When seeds are good and dry I shake the seeds and pods through a mini screen, or sieve. I give them a gentle "crush" onto the screen and gently shake this over a white piece of paper. The screen usually holds most of the seed pods, and chaffs allowing the seed to fall through onto the paper.
Step 5 Storing seeds:
I simply use paper envelopes to store my seeds. Labeling is important. Label envelopes with the date and year collected as well as the name of the plant. It is a good idea to store envelopes in a cool dry area. I store my seed collection in the laundry room. I also store some seeds outside in the garden shed over winter. If storing seeds outside remember to place envelopes in a rodent proof container such as a metal can with lid. An old washed out paint can with lid works great.
The seed's success depends on how old it is, and it's storing conditions. That is not to say that my seeds have not been stored for more than one year. I have done so. I do try to plant seeds I have collected right from the previous year for best results in the garden. Although, I have had successful plantings with older seeds. If I become overloaded with seeds, I just give them away to friends.

Printable Instructions

Donna Fuss Memorial

2008-10-02T11:07:00.002-04:00

I regret to announce that Donna Fuss passed away on Tuesday night at Hartford Hospital after a protracted illness. Donna was a founding member, and a Past President, of the Connecticut Rose Society, key to all things roses at Elizabeth Park and all-around wonderful person. She will be greatly missed by all of CRS, and by rose enthusiasts in CT and nationally.
Donna did a wonderful presentation "Easy Care Roses" to our membership last May, 2008. She shared many slides of her beautiful roses and a lot of her knowledge.
A memorial service will be held Saturday morning, October 4, 2008 at 11 am at the Bloomfield Congregational Church in Bloomfield, CT.
Directions to the church at found at this link: http://www.fccbloomfield.org/index_files/Page1459.htm
You can read her obituary in the Hartford Courant Obituaries.

Photos from the Tundra

2008-09-22T19:39:00.002-04:00

Fran Oat has shared photos of flowers on the trundra on her trip to Siberia and the Bering Sea.

Moss Workshop at Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center

2008-09-22T14:15:00.000-04:00

Moss Workshop
Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center in Mystic, CT
Saturday, September 27 10 am – Noon
Members $15/ Non-members $20

Learn how to differentiate and identify these fascinating little plants with Jessica Budke, a University of Connecticut PhD candidate concentrating on mosses. We’ll learn how to separate mosses from different types of plants, see how they live together in groups, study how they got their names and discover many different uses for mosses. After a brief indoor introduction we will head outside to discover the diversity of mosses around the Nature Center. Hand lenses and keys will be provided. To register, please call (860) 536-1216.

Mark Your Calendar

2008-09-18T08:30:00.006-04:00

Gardening Education

September 22 – 24, 2008 Environmental Studies School “The Living Earth” Course 1 is presented by The Federated Garden Clubs of Connecticut
123 Huntington St. New Haven, CT. The course is $80.00.
To register contact Anne Harringan, Registrar, 17 Richter Dr., Danbury, CT 06811
203-744-2057
jonannolly@aol.com

October 7 – 9 Gardening Study Course III, Series V, 123 Huntington St. New Haven presented by The Federated Garden Clubs of Connecticut.
See your green sheet for more information or contact
Janet M. Jackson, 40 Riverside Drive, Branford, CT 06405

October 16, 2008 The Garden Education Center of Greenwich Festive Tables 2008 presents Haunting Elegance. For more information call 203-869-9242

Awards Luncheon Meeting

October 22, 2008 – Connecticut Garden Club Awards Luncheon Meeting will be held at the Aqua TURF Club. In addition to the presentation of awards the Judges’ Council Flower Show will be a treat. The show is titled “The Devil Made Me Do It”. All members welcome. $30 per person. Contact Betsy or Ceil if you would like to join them.
Federated Garden Clubs of Connecticut Flower Show
February 19 - 22, 2009 at the Connecticut Convention Center.
Click to see the brochure.

National Garden Club Website & Blog

2008-09-18T08:30:00.005-04:00

The National Garden Clubs, Inc. has added a blog to their website. You can get there through their website. www.gardenclub.org or you can go directly to their blog at http://www.gardenclub.org/news/GardenClubBlog.aspx

Tropicals in New England

2008-09-07T16:32:00.003-04:00

This year I particularly enjoyed a couple tropical plants that I added to my patio. I purchased an Inca Sun Brugmansia from Logees and planted it in a large pot on my patio. I was rewarded with the most spectacular trumpet shaped blossoms.
On the other side of the patio, I put a trellis and added a lovely pink mandevilla. It is unbelieveable the number of flowers and growth that this plant has. I couldn't dream of a more lovely plant. The wavy pink flowers are prolific and so vibrant. These vines will grow 7 to 10 feet per season.

Pink Mandevilla

I am hoping to winter over these tropicals. There are two suggested techniques for wintering these fragile plants. First they must be brought inside before the temperatures drops below 60 degrees. It was recommended that you hose them down thoroughly to remove any pests before bringing them in the house. One can try to keep them active all winter with regularly watering and sunlight. They are likely to be somewhat sad house plants. Alternately you can cut them back by 2/3 and let them go dormant. Put them in a cool dark place and water them about once a month to keep them from drying out completely. In early spring the plant will begin to come back to life. Begin watering, repot and put outside in May or June after all danger of frost.

So this year I will bring these beauties inside and hope to have even more wonderful tropical blossoms to enjoy next summer.

Gardens created for the 2008 Beijing Summer Oympics

2008-08-27T12:51:00.001-04:00

Free Digital Photo Seminars

2008-08-26T18:14:00.001-04:00

Find out how to Capture, Share, Enhance and View your Digital Photos!
Come to the FREE seminars on Digital Photography at the Mystic & Noank Library

Tuesday, Sept. 9 at 6:30 PM

and

Tuesday, Sept. 23 at 6:30 PM

For more info go to http://mysticnoanklibrary.org/NancyHFlyer2.pdf

Arija's Delightful Garden

2008-08-23T13:16:00.004-04:00

Arija's garden is 3 1/2 acres of flowers, shrubs,& trees which she planted & so beautifully landscaped in Old Mystic. A trip there is a real delight.

These photos, taken by Carol Connor, give a glimse of the beauty there.

Wine & Cheese at the Denison Homestead

2008-07-23T18:51:00.003-04:00

The Denison Society

Invites You

to a

Wine and Cheese Reception

and

Tour of the Denison Homestead Museum

Friday, August 1, 2008

5:30- 7:30 PM

120 Pequotsepos Road, Mystic CT

This reception is part of our annual Denison Reunion Weekend and an opportunity for The Denison Society to thank our Friends and volunteers and to introduce ourselves to others. It is surprising how many people have lived in this area all their lives but say they have never heard of us. The Denison Society was formed in 1930 as a family society when house museums were in vogue. However, what turned out to be unique was not only the Society commitment to local history, but the Denison Society commitment to the environment and open space. Maggie Jones, director of the Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center, stated it this way, "Long before there were Nature Conservancies, before there were any local land trusts, in fact prior to any general awareness about nature education and habitat preservation, The Denison Society, of Stonington, CT made a commitment to environmental preservation." The Society created the first nature/wildlife center in 1946 and leased 125 acres to it for a nominal fee of $1.00 a year, a lease that still continues to the year 2030! Today the Society is open to both Denison family members and Friends. We still own about 160 acres of land, part of the original land granted to Captain George Denison in 1654 by John Winthrop Jr. In 1992 we spear headed The Denison Fund Campaign to purchase the Morgan Farm land, 50 acres below our house, where we now hold the Denison Farm Market. (This land was to be a sub-division with a road running from the Aquarium to Pequotsepos Road.) We also run a seasonal museum for the public and sponsor local events, reenactments and school programs. In May we had a CPTV documentary filmed on Frederick Douglass at the Homestead. We currently have an exhibit on the filming and local slavery. We look forward to seeing you on August 1.
The Reception will be outside on our lawn weather permitting or inside the museum if inclement weather.
We hope to see you there!
Jean Evans, President of the Denison Society
RSVP membership@DenisonSociety.org or djevans3@aol.com
860-536-9248 http://www.denisonsociety.org/

A Visit to Portland Rose Garden

2008-07-18T21:27:00.004-04:00

Diane Davis visited The International Rose Test Garden, in Portland, Oregon. It is the oldest official continuously operated public use test garden in the U.S. Its primary purpose is to serve as a testing ground for new rose varieties. The 4.5 acre garden with over 7,000 rose plants is on a hill with beautiful views of the city below, and of Mt. Hood in the distance. We have been here probably six times in the last dozen years or so, and today was one of the few days we could not see Mt. Hood. The main season for the roses passed by a couple of weeks ago, but there were still many beautiful specimens.

More on Farmer's Market

2008-07-16T16:48:00.003-04:00

In case you missed it there was a good article in the Hartford Courant on Connecticut Farmer's Markets. >Click here to read the article. Or you can go directly to the list of Connecticut Farmer's Markets.

Arija's Summer Garden

2008-07-05T07:19:00.001-04:00

I thought I'd give you an update on my gardening activities.
A week ago I had a group from New Zealand come tour my garden. The weather co-operated and we had a wonderful tour. A couple of "Kiwis" even informed me that viewing my garden was the highlight of their visit to CT.
Last Saturday I had an opportunity to visit Louis Raymond's garden in Hopkinton, RI. It certainly was not the run of the mill garden. Hopefully we may have him as a club speaker sometime next year, although he does "speak Latin" ...
Last Sunday I entered the CT Rose Society's annual Rose Show in Hartford and walked away with 11 (eleven) ribbons, three of them were blue. Not shabby, I'd say.
Too bad the Club doesn't meet during the summer. There's so many gardening activities to share.
Hope your gardening activities are off to an equally good start.
Arija

Local Farmer's Markets

2008-07-03T11:46:00.003-04:00

The Saturday Morning Farmer's Market in the Stonington Borough is a real delight. With fresh and frozen seafood, local produce, baked goods, handmade pottery and flowers there is always something to bring home. And being located on the town docks makes it a very special treat. It is Saturday, May through October, 9 AM to Noon.

List of Local Farmer's Markets
Stonington/Mystic

Quiambaug Fire House, 50 Old Stonington Rd
Tuesdays, 2 to 6 PM, June through October

Denison Farm Market, 120 Pequotsepos Rd
Sundays, noon to 3 PM, June through October

Olde Mistick Village, 27 Coogan Blvd.
TBA, Sept through November

Stonington Borough, Town Docks
Saturdays, 9 AM to Noon, May through October

Westerly
Westerly Farmers' Market, 85 Main Street
Thursdays, 11 AM to 3 PM, May through October

Groton
Groton Farmers' Market, Groton Shopping Plaza Rte 1
Wednesdays, 2 to 6 PM, May through October

MGC 2008 Annual Meeting

2008-06-29T14:31:00.002-04:00

The Mystic Garden Club 2008 Annual Meeting was a really fantastic event. It was held at the Mystic Arts Center, where the artwork was a beautiful backdrop for the lovely ladies and their decorated hats. Our new members were welcomed to the club at that time with Amy Laidlaw and Pauline Grippo able to participate. Our scholarship recipient was introduced to the group. Our retiring President, Gail Ettinger, thanked all of her board members and passed the presidential pin along to the new co-presidents, Betsy Van Winkle and Ceil Gallup.
There were prizes for the most creative hats with

The Most Mystic going to Betsy Van Winkle whose red, white & blue creation was very patriotic
The Most Elegant to Joy Molloy
The Greenest to Sue Johnson with her asparagus decorate hat.
The Most Suited to her Personality to Cam Bertsche whose hat was decorated with a whooping crane.

The lunch was absolutely delicious and the year ended on a particularly high note. The results from the Plant Sale exceeded anything that was done before. So a special thanks to everyone for donating their plants to this worthwhile fundraiser for the Mystic & Noank Library.

Plum Beach Garden Club Event

2008-06-24T10:48:00.003-04:00

We received the following invitation to an event put on by the Plum Beach Garden Club http://www.gardencentral.org/rigardenclubs/pbgc/ in Wickford, RI.

Hi there...a group of us from the PLUM BEACH GARDEN CLUB in Wickford RI happened
to enjoy your recent Plant Sale. Well Done!Congratulations. We had the best
time!

Thought you might want to relax and enjoy an afternoon out so I am sending you
some info on our upcoming luncheon:

Do you think that oak leaves and pine needles make soil acidic?

Have you heard that moss in the lawn means you need to add lime?

Find out why this so-called garden wisdom may not be wise at all when C.L. Fornari, http://www.gardenlady.com/ author, photographer, radio host and master gardener returns to Rhode Island to speak at The Plum Beach Garden Club's September 10th luncheon fundraiser at the Dunes Club in Narragansett.

All interested gardeners and lovers of Wednesday afternoon lunches at a beautiful seaside location are invited. "MYTHS, LIES and ALL THE LATEST DIRT" is the presentation by this popular, witty and entertaining speaker who will be lecturing on the down and dirty folklore on plants, practices and products. The Plum Beach Garden Club was started in 1927, and continues to support civic beautification projects. This luncheon fundraiser is for the "Island Project", the ambitious landscaping that will transform the traffic islands that are on Route 1 and West Main Street that are the entrance to the historic Village of Wickford.

This event starts at 10:30 AM

Space is limited, and as in past years, often sells out quickly.

Reservations are confirmed with a $40.00 check made payable to

THE PLUM BEACH GARDEN CLUB.

Send them to treasurer,

Clare Northrup

105 Stony Lane

Exeter, RI, 02822

For more information, contact Anne O'Neil at 783-8959.

LECTURE & LUNCHEON

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 10, 2008

The Dunes Club

137 Boston Neck Rd

Narragansett, RI 02882
Speaker: C.L. Fornari

MYTHS LIES AND ALL THE LATEST DIRT

$40.00 advanced reservations

Thank you

Karen Pizzaruso

Publicity Plum Beach Garden Club

401-295-1910 31 Fishing Cove Road

North Kingstown, Rhode Island 02852
C.L. Fornari http://www.gardenlady.com/

(508) 428-5895

"Want guidance and inspiration? It's all in your own backyard."

Nature Center Trip to Garden in the Woods

2008-06-24T10:37:00.001-04:00

Trip to Garden in the Woods
Home of the New England Wildflower Society in Framingham, MA
July 22
8:30 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Members $45/Non-Members $50
Please call (860) 536-1216 to register
Garden in the Woods is New England’s premier living exhibit of native plants. More than 1500 varieties of flowers, shrubs, trees and ferns can be found here, including many rare and endangered native specimens. We should see a great variety of colorful wildflowers, orchids and summer-blooming plants, including lilies, coneflowers, blazing starts, butterfly weed, turtlehead and countless others. We have also timed our visit to coincide with the Big Bugs exhibit, which includes 13 giant insect sculptures integrated into the landscape. This is their only venue in New England.

Jennifer Johnson
Director of Marketing & Communications
Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center
109 Pequotsepos Rd.
P.O. Box 122 Mystic, CT 06355
(860) 536-1216 x 13 (p)(860) 536-2983 (f)

Visit the Nature Center Website at www.dpnc.org

The Butchart Gardens

2008-06-15T15:17:00.000-04:00

Karen Carriera recently visited The Butchart Gardens in Victoria, British Columbia. She brought back some wonderful photos.

The Butchart Gardens were originally a limestone and clay quarry for Mr. Butchart's nearby cement factory. The first section of the Residence was completed in 1904. Jennie Foster Kennedy married Mr. Butchart and devoted herself to the development of the Butchart Gardens.
The ugly scar left when the limestone was no longer quarried became the renowned Sunken Garden. Other Gardens in the estate include an English Rose Garden, a Formal Italian Garden and a Japanese Garden.

For more information visit their website at www.butchartgardens.com

Mystic Garden Club Plant Sale

2008-06-07T18:35:00.002-04:00

The Mystic Garden Club Plant Sale was a huge success. People were lined up on the sidewalk waiting to buy the beautiful, locally grown plants. The plant sale adds wonderful excitement to the Mystic & Noank Library Spring Fair. In addition to the plant sale there were books for sale, delicious baked goods, fabulous silent auction items, chowder and fudge and a terrific white elephant sale.
The weather was spectacular and it was all in all a wonderful day.

A Favorite Tulip

2008-06-05T18:23:00.003-04:00

This wonderful progression of a really gorgeous tulip was taken in Barbara T.'s garden. She was away at the time and her neighbor photographed it so she could enjoy it. So we are fortunate enough to enjoy it as well.

Plant Sale Intake

2008-06-04T15:19:00.002-04:00

Don't forget to bring your plants to the Plant Sale at the Mystic & Noank Library. Plant Intake

Friday, June 6, 2008

8:30 AM - 12:00 PM

4:00 PM - 6:00 PM

Please label a stick for each donated plant with the following info:

Name of Plant
Growing Conditions

Light Needs
Heights, habits, etc.

Please do not bring any invasive species. Click here for a list of invasives

Hetsy Awarded Honorary Member

2008-05-27T18:59:00.002-04:00

The May meeting included a special award of honorary membership to Hetsy Bisbee.

Tree Peonies from Barbara Tacy's Garden

Postcard inspired arrangement from the design committee.

Our speaker was the rosarian Donna Fuss.

Cherry Tree at Cutler Middle School

2008-05-22T16:58:00.000-04:00

Connor Rousseau and William Bartinek planting the weeping cherry tree donated by Mystic Garen Club for the courtyard at Cutler Middle School.

More Photos from Logees

2008-05-20T09:12:00.000-04:00

The April trip to Logees was a wonderful experience. Fran has very nicely shared more photos from that trip so those that couldn't join the group can get an idea of what a fascinating place Logees is. It is comprised of a number of greenhouses absolutely filled to the brim with exotic tropicals. These are suitable for summer patio plantings and wonderful house plants. So if you want something really special it's the place to go. Hopefully this will be an annual trip and you can join the group next spring.

The Connecticut College Arboretum

2008-05-17T18:44:00.003-04:00

The Connecticut College Arboretum is a real local treasure. The Mystic Garden Club was treated to a tour of the Caroline Black Gardens. But anyone can enjoy a tour on any Sunday at 2 PM from May to October. Tours begin from the blue sculpture in front of the Olin Building near the main gate. The first Sunday is a tour of the Caroline Black Garden. The second Sunday tour is of the campus gardens and the following Sundays are of the Native Plant Gardens.
A special thanks to Carol Connor and Bodil Meyer for their photos.

The group is admiring the huge redwood tree.

The Mystic Garden Club field trip to the Connecticut College Arboretum. Remember you can click on any photo to enlarge it.

Purple Trillium

April Joint Meeting with Daffodil Display

2008-04-30T19:46:00.002-04:00

Our April meeting was a joint luncheon and presentation with the Stonington Garden Club. Sydney Eddison did a wonderful presentation on container gardens featuring the photos by Steve Silk from her book Gardens to Go, Creating and Designing a Container Garden

The members brought in specimens of daffoldils from their gardens. What a fantastic display. It is fascinating how many different varieties there are.

The table centerpiece was a lovely spring display.

Cynthia serving coffee and tea

Fran & Ceil

Linda & Alice

Burt

Postcard inspired design

Photos from Trip to Logees

2008-04-29T11:14:00.003-04:00

What a fabulous place Logees is! This trip was a terrific success and hopefully will be an annual event.

Seaside Garden Party

2008-04-29T11:11:00.002-04:00

On Saturday, June 14, the Old Saybrook Historical Society proudly presents a "Seaside Garden Party" to be held on the grounds of a private home overlooking the Connecticut River. A tour of the gardens as well as a neighboring "Sculpture Walk" begins at 11am and will be followed by a catered luncheon under a tent at 12:30. The Apparel Shop at Saybrook Country Barn will provide fashions during the luncheon and at 2 pm a noted local Rosarian, David Long, will speak and share his knowledge and love of roses.

In addition, a flower arranging demonstration will be provided by the Old Saybrook Garden Club and a Vintage Garden Boutique will be hosted by the Old Saybrook Historical Society Gardeners.

Tickets are $60 and are available in the Apparel Shop at Saybrook Country Barn or the Frank Stevenson Archives, behind 350 Main Street or write to the Old Saybrook Historical Society 350 Main Street P.O. Box 4, Old Saybrook, CT 06475

Parking and a shuttle will be available from Saybrook Point starting at 10:30 am.

Space is limited and there will be no tickets available the day of the event as this is a catered event with limited seating.

For more information call 860-395-1635

Doesn't this sound good! Gail

Magnolia in Noank

2008-04-26T10:12:00.002-04:00

This is a dark pink magnola tree, a bit unusual & in full bloom now at a past member, Carolyn Crowley's home in Noank.

Carol Connor

Commercial on Thames Valley Cable

2008-04-22T09:34:00.004-04:00

Thames Valley Cable has very generously offered to run a 30 second commerical on their cable network for the month of May. This commercial will promote the Mystic & Noank Library Spring Fair. The Mystic Garden Club Plant Sale is specifically mentioned and photos featured. You can see this commercial via YouTube by clicking on the arrow below.

Shinny's Daffodills

2008-04-21T20:40:00.001-04:00

These photos were supplied by Greg Stone.

Proposed Changes to the MGC Bylaws

2008-04-15T15:21:00.002-04:00

You can see the proposed changes to the Mystic Garden Club Bylaws by clicking on the link below.
Proposed Changes to the ByLaws

June Meeting Celebration

2008-04-13T07:35:00.002-04:00

In place of our business meeting in June we are going to be entertained by Hatsy Taylor, a New England gardener, writer and professional garden lecturer/singer.

Hatsy Taylor is a New England gardener, writer and professional garden lecturer. She has published two books "Weeds and Wisdom" and "Mother Nature's Wit and Wisdom" Her lectures on garden topic, wildflowers and on vegetables, have been entertaining garden clubs, libraries and schools for many years.

To read more about Hatsy visit her website at www.weedsandwisdom.com

Spring Events

2008-04-12T17:01:00.010-04:00

Flower Shows and Garden Tours
Greenwich Daffodil Society & Show
April 23 & 24, Wednesday 1:30 - 8, Thursday 10 - 4.
More info, Lyn 203-661-5592

New London Garden Club Flower Show
Fresh Impressions GCA Flower Show
May 16 10 AM to 5 PM
May 17 10 AM - 3 PM
at the Florence Griswold Museum, Old Lyme CT
http://www.florencegriswoldmuseum.org/

The Wallingford Garden Club Flower Show
Garden Melodies - A Small Standard Flower Show
Saturday, June 14, 2008 1 PM to 5 PM
The Wallingford Senior Center, 238 Washginton St. Wallingford, CT

Stonington Garden Club Walking Tour
Gardens by the Sea - A Walking Tour of 10 Private Stonington Gardens
Friday & Saturday, June 20 & 21, 2008
10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Rain or Shine
http://www.stonington-gardenclub.org/

Simsbury Garden Club Garden Tour
Summertime - Patios, Pools, Ponds & Pots
June 20 & 21 10 am to 4 PM
http://www.simsburygardenclub.org/

Newport Flower Show
Explore! Botanical Passions
June 27, 28, & 29
Rosecliff, Newport, RI
http://www.newportflowershow.org/ 401-847-1000, ext. 150

Local Plant Sales

Garden Education Center of Greenwich, May Gardener's Market
Saturday, May 3rd, 9 - 1.Bible Street, Cos Cob. More Info, Call 203-869-9242.

Ledyard Garden Club Plant Sale

May 10th, from 8:30 am to noon, rain or shine,
at the Ledyard Congregational Church. More information,
phone Sue Anderson at 860-464-7740.

Duck River Garden Club Plant Sale
May 9, from 3-7pm and May 10, from 9am to 1pm.
In front of the Old Lyme Shopping Center.
More information phone Doreen Thomas at 860-434-7740.

Connecticut College Arboretum Plant Sale
May 9, from 11:30 to 2:30 at the Crozier Williams College Center and
May 10, from 10 to 2pm, at the Connecticut College Green.
For Directions and more information go to www.conncoll.edu/ccrec/greennet/arbo/

Thames River Garden Club Plant Sale
Saturday May 5, 9 - 1.
Waterford High School, Rope Ferry Rd.

North Stonington Plant Sale
May 10, 9 - 1
Rocky Hollow Rec. Area, Route 2, behind the Fire Station.
More info, http://www.nsgardenclub.org/

Essex May Market
May 10, 9 - 2 in the Essex Town Park

Old Saybrook Garden Club
May 9 & 10, Friday 4 - 6, Saturday 8 - 2.
Village Green on Main St

Friends of Harkness Plant Sale
May 9 and May 10, from 9am to 4pm rain or shine
at Harkness Memorial State Park, Waterford.

Garden Market Fair Plant Sale
Wilcox Park, Westerly, RI
Sunday, May 18 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Over 100 vendors
Please call (401) 596 - 2877 for more information.

April Meeting Daffodils

2008-04-11T11:41:00.004-04:00

The daffodils are coming up and we will be bringing our specimens to the April Meeting. You should choose your specimen carefully. It is best to choose a daffodil that is not yet open. Color must be showing before you cut it or it will never open. Cut the daffoldil near the base but not below the ground. Using a pen write the name of the daffodil and your name on the stem and place in very hot water. This will encourage it to open over night. You should bring your daffodil to the church on Monday, April 21 between 3 and 5 PM or 6:30 to 8 PM.

Still Time - Logees Trip

2008-04-09T14:30:00.003-04:00

Logees Trip - Friday, April 11

Please meet at the Go Fish parking lot at 9:00AM. If you are able to drive, please come with your gas tank filled. If you are planning to ride; please share the cost of gas with your driver.
Visit their website http://www.logees.com/ to see what they have to offer.

The drive takes about 50 minutes and is mostly highway (395N). I will bring several copies of driving instructions with me to pass along to those who need them. We will head to Pomfret for lunch at "The Vanilla Bean" market/deli/restaurant. There is also a cute herbary across the street that may be visited after lunch. Looking forward to a great day! Barbara Rousseau

MGC Design Committee Postcard Inspirations

2008-04-06T09:19:00.003-04:00

Each month the Mystic Garden Club Design Committee has created a fabulous floral arrangement inspired by an antique postcard. These have been unique as well as beautiful. The arrangement at the October meeting was done by Mary Katherine Porter and was inspired by a Hawaiian Postcard. Her use of red ginger and anthuriums brings to mind the vivid colors of that tropical paradise.

And who can help by see the inspiration of the Southwestern postcard in this goreous explosion of color in a glased potter container done by Barbara Ginsburg.

And a wonderful contrast to the vivid reds is this Asian inspired arrangement in a sleek black vase done by Cheryl Thevenet.

The delicate arrangement of roses was inspired by a postcard of the Newport Tea House.

This very charming arrangement in the model tractor is a wonderful interpretation of this Iowa postcard.

Connecticut Flower Show

2008-04-03T09:50:00.002-04:00

Our Design Team did a fabulous job at the Connecticut Flower Show. The theme of the show was "Once Upon A Time".
Their entry in Section - "All the People in the Kingdom", Class "The Clock Strikes 12" was spectacular. You can see the presentation below.

The Requirments were "A Dinner Buffet at Cinderella's Ball. A Functional Table for six (6'x42"x30"). The team created a gorgeous custom table cloth and spectacular setting. The design took a 2nd place in the competition.

Ou other entry was in the section "Deep in the Forest" - "This Chair is 'Just Right'.

And the results were 'Just Right' taking a First Place in the competition.

To see more photos click on the arrow below to see a slide show.

Karen's Photos from St. John

2008-03-31T14:06:00.003-04:00

There's nothing like a winter get away to "the islands". We are greeted not only with blue skies, warm breezes but also a feast for the eyes of wonderful tropical flowers. Karen Carriera has returned from St. John with these wonderful pictures to share.
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Christchurch, New Zealand - Festival of FLowers

2008-03-28T14:44:00.004-04:00

These photos were taken by Bert Turner at the Cathedral in Christchurch, New Zealand at their "Festival of Flowers" week.

Note the center aisle from entrance to altar area paved with flowers. Side aisles features the arrangements. Costume for the parade were done by Jenny Gillies, Costume & Fabric, Cosume & Fabric Designer. Fabulous! Her website is http://www.jennygillies.com/ - to see more as we, the audience, were not allowed to photograph them. I snuck in one.

By Bert Turner, MGC

Reminder - you can click on any of the photos to enlarge them.

Sound & Country Article

2008-03-27T09:56:00.000-04:00

The Mystic Garden Club Plant Sale at the Mystic & Noank Library was featured in the Spring issue of Sound and Country. If you missed the article click here to read it.

Upcoming Local Plant Sales

2008-03-26T12:18:00.008-04:00

Gardeners are always looking for new plants for their gardens. Buying plants from local clubs and growers is always desirable. Here are the dates for some Local Plant Sales.
Ledyard Garden Club
May 10th, from 8:30 am to noon, rain or shine,
at the Ledyard Congregational Church. More information,
phone Sue Anderson at 860-464-7740.
Duck River Garden Club
May 9, from 3-7pm and May 10, from 9am to 1pm.
In front of the Old Lyme Shopping Center.
More information phone Doreen Thomas at 860-434-7740.
Connecticut College Arboretum
May 9, from 11:30 to 2:30 at the Crozier Williams College Center and May 10, from 10 to 2pm, at the Connecticut College Green.
For Directions and more information go to www.conncoll.edu/ccrec/greennet/arbo/
Friends of Harkness
May 9 and May 10, from 9am to 4pm rain or shine
at Harkness Memorial State Park, Waterford.
Garden Market Fair
Wilcox Park, Westerly, RI
Sunday, May 18 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Over 100 vendors
Please call (401) 596 - 2877 for more information.

MGC April Activities

2008-03-25T15:59:00.005-04:00

Barbara Rousseau is organizing a trip to Logees Greenhouses in Danielson, CT on Friday, April 11th. People are to meet at Go Fish at 9 AM to drive together. Visit their website http://www.logees.com/ to see what they have to offer.

The daffodils are coming up and we will be bringing our specimens to the April Meeting. You should choose your specimen carefully. It is best to choose a daffodil that is not yet open. Color must be showing before you cut it or it will never open. Cut the daffoldil near the base but not below the ground. Using a pen write the name of the daffodil on the stem and place in very hot water. This will encourage it to open over night. You should bring your daffodil to the church on Monday, April 21 between 3 and 5 PM or 6:30 to 8 PM.

Going Green with fewer Catalogs

2008-03-25T14:13:00.001-04:00

If you are overwhelmed with catalogs and hate to have all that paper wasted you can visit www.catalogchoice.org to choose which catalog mailing lists you'd like to be removed from.

Our Website is now at www.MysticGardenClub.org

2008-03-24T15:34:00.001-04:00

We have a new location for our website - it is at www.mysticgardenclub.org Be sure to visit often.

Hawaiian Flowers

2008-03-01T20:31:00.004-05:00

We have been coming to Hawaii for the past 5 winters. I am always so impressed with the flora and fauna here. There are several botanical gardens "up country" which means part way up the side of the volcano. The elevation assures more moisture and a slightly cooler climate than at sea level. I am always struck by the very vivid colors of the plants here. By comparison our flowers seem soft and pastel while here in Hawaii everything is large and bright and vivid.
The first year we visited the Enchanting Floral Gardens they were full of abundant blooms. There were little signs identifying the hundreds and hundreds of varieties of plants. It was obviously the life's work of someone very dedicated. Unfortunately it was somewhat over grown but still very charming and lush. Each year we have visited it has become more and more overgrown and some things have been sheared back without any real thought to the pruning. As a result our visit this year was very disappointing. Things are overgrown but no longer blooming profusely. They look tired and strangled.

Most hotels and condos have wonderfully manicured lawns and plantings in Hawaii. There are gardeners working constantly to keep things under control. Hibiscus and bougainvillea grow as profuse hedges. Orchids grow in large pots in lobbies everywhere.

I've taken some of my favorite flower photos from our visits here and put them in a slide show. I hope you enjoy it. You will recognize many flowers we use as annuals and plants that we use as house plants.

Bluebird Workshop with the Bluebird Lady

2008-02-21T14:13:00.004-05:00

Bluebird Workshop with the Bluebird Lady

The Denison Pequotsepos Nature

Sunday, February 24, 3 - 5 p.m.

Led by Bet Zimmerman

Members $8 Non-Members $10

Ever wonder how to get Bluebirds to come to your backyard? Come to this wonderful bluebird workshop to find out from the Bluebird Lady!

Bet Zimmerman knows bluebirds. During this slide presentation, learn what to do and what NOT to do to attract bluebirds and help them survive and flourish from someone who has studied their behaviors and nesting habits for over 20 years. During mid-late winter, bluebirds are staking out their homes for the coming spring, so this is the ideal time to develop a plan for bringing bluebirds into your yard and garden.

Call 536-1216 for more information and to sign up. Click here for more info

The Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center is a non-profit environmental education center and museum located at 109 Pequotsepos Rd. in Mystic.

DPNC and its adjacent properties comprise over 300 acres of preserved woodlands, wetlands, and hiking trails.

For more information, call 860-536-1216 or visit http://www.dpnc.org/

SECT Garden Club Meeting

2008-02-19T18:12:00.002-05:00

Arija and Betty O’Donnell attended the SECT Garden Club Meeting
at the Waterford Public Library and found it to be worthwhile.

Topics of Interest:

The Spring Symposium of the Hardy Plant Society, to be held March 1st at St. Paul's Lutheran Church, 371 Wolcott Hill Road, Wethersfield. 10 am. Exciting ornamentals for the New Season especially suitable to Connecticut gardens is a topic.
Most clubs support F.R.E.S.H., and Habitat for Humanity. The latter needs gardening tools. If members of the club, or another source has implements for donation, contact: Wendy Kelleher 572-0441.
Bar codes in grocery stores include a scan number. #8 indicates a product has been genetically engineered. #9 indicates a product has been organically grown.

Upcoming Event - Chelsea Garden Foundation

2008-02-08T13:14:00.000-05:00

Chelsea Gardens Foundation has extended an invitation to the Mystic Garden Club members to attend a gardening lecture by Educator and Author Rosemary Alexander Monday February 25 at 7pm. The event will be in Slater Hall on the campus of Norwich Free Academy.

To learn more about the Chelsea Gardens Foundation visit their website at http://www.chelseagardens.org/

You can contact them at

Street Address:
Chelsea Gardens
100 Broadway
Norwich, CT 06360

Mailing Address:
Chelsea Gardens
P.O. Box 810Norwich, CT 06360
Phone - (860) 889-6642

Email - info@chelseagardens.org

Upcoming Event: Landscape Design Study Program

2008-01-23T15:28:00.001-05:00

The Federated Garden Clubs of Connecticut, Inc. offers many educational programs. Currently on their website they feature
Flower Show Schools
Gardening Study Schools
and
Landscape Design Study Programs
If you are interested in any of these educational programs you should visit the educational portion of their website at http://www.ctgardenclubs.org/schools.html

Or contact them:
The Federated Garden Clubs of Connecticut, Inc.
Landscape Design Study Program
March 25, 26 & 27
More information? Contact Margery Winters at margerywinter@comcast.net or 860-658-5416

Desert Plants in Winter

2008-01-21T21:34:00.001-05:00

Happy New Year!

We just returned from a vacation in Arizona and I thought I'd share
with the club some of the pictures we took of the desert plants in
winter. It's quite beautiful.

Best wishes,

Shinny

Click here to see more photos on Shutterfly

More Upcoming Local Events

2008-01-16T20:07:00.001-05:00

The Ledyard Garden Club invites the members of the Mystic Garden Club to "Designing with Silvers", presented by photographer, author and speaker, Karen Bussolini, on Feb.4 at the Ledyard Senior Center, at 7pm. For more information phone Sue Anderson at 464-6878.

The Mystic Garden Club will be having a "Daffodil Exhibit", on April 22nd.

Fine Art & Flowers Garden Tour, Wadsworth Antheneum Museum of Fine Art, April 24-27. For more information phone 860-838-4141

Art in Bloom, Boston Museum of Fine Arts, April 26-29.

The New London Garden Club, presents "Fresh Impressions", a GCA Flower Show, May 15, 16 & 17, at the Florence Griswold Museum. For more information phone Betty Pinson 860-486-0627 or email bettypinson@sbcglobal.net

The Mystic Garden Club Plant Sale, Saturday, June 7th, at the Mystic Noank Library

The Newport Flower Show, "Explore Botanical", June 27, 28 & 29. The Preservation Society of Newport, a GCA Flower Show.

The Fifth Annual Great Gardens and Landscaping Symposium

2008-01-16T19:45:00.001-05:00

Announcement About Upcoming April 2008 Gardening Symposium
Fifth Annual Great Gardens and Landscaping Symposium
April 4 & 5, 2008 at the Equinox Resort in Manchester, VT

From: Kerry Mendez email: pyours@nycap.rr.com
Greetings! My name is Kerry Ann Mendez and I am a garden writer, speaker, teacher, and designer from Upstate New York. I hope your New Year is off to a great start. Would you kindly share the below information about the Fifth Annual Great Gardens and Landscaping Symposium with your group and other gardeners? For more information, please visit the
www.pyours.com/Symposium2008.html.

This event sold out two months ahead of time in 2007 so those interested should reserve their spot early! If you have questions, please call me at (518) 885-3471.

Fifth Annual Great Gardens and Landscaping Symposium
April 4 & 5, 2008 at the world-class Equinox Resort in Manchester, VT

Sponsored by Bradfield Organics, Coast of Maine Organic Products, Davey Hecht Woodworking, Dutch Gardens, Equinox Valley Nursery, Gardener's Supply Company, Messenger, People, Places & Plants, Proven Winners, SafeLawns, TerraCycle, The Vermont Association of Professional Horticulturists & Garden Arts Custom Landscapes

Friday 7:00 - 9:00 p.m., Saturday 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Enjoy six dynamic lectures by renowned professionals in their fields. Last year the symposium sold out two months prior to the event. Guest speakers are Tara Dillard, a national award winning author, designer, speaker and former TV host on CBS from Atlanta, Georgia; Shepherd Ogden, a renowned speaker, author, teacher, horticulturist, and founder of The Cooks Garden (a pioneering organic seed
company); Mardell Steinkamp from Sunny Border Nurseries, one of the largest wholesalers of perennials and new introductions in the northeast; Kerry Mendez, a popular speaker, teacher, writer, consultant and former TV show host; and Kelly Sweeney, master designer, landscaper and head gardener for the 700 acre Basin Harbor Club in Vermont (one of the Historic Hotels of
America). Topics include The Art of Garden Design, New Perennials for 2008, Creating Focal Points In The Garden, Sensational Flowering Shrubs, Step-by-Step Organic Vegetable and Flower Gardening, and All About Annuals.
Package price for one night's accommodations at a four diamond resort, welcome reception with heavy hors d'oeuvres and cash bar, full breakfast, midmorning refreshments, gourmet luncheon buffet, six garden lectures with handouts, a garden gift, chance to win great door prizes, and all taxes and gratuities is only $276.97 single or $406.79 double ($203.40 per person).
Two night packages available. For package reservations, call the Equinox Resort (http://www.equinoxresort.com/) at (800) 362-4747. For more information about the agenda and topics, visit www.pyours.com/Symposium2008.html or call (518) 885-3471.

Upcoming Events 2008

2008-01-14T21:10:00.001-05:00

Avalonia Land Conservancy Bald Eagle Survey, the DEP Wildlife Division is currently seeking volunteers to help with the 2008 Mid-winter Bald Eagle Survey, in January 2008. For additional information email davidbainbridge@sbcglobal.net or 536-2921
January 27th at 1pm, Hike the Nature Conservancy's Poquetanuck Cove Preserve, Ledyard. For more information phone 464-8101

The Federated Garden Clubs of CT. Presents a Standard Flower Show, "Once Upon A Time", February 21 - 24. Hartford Convention Center

Rhode Island Spring Flower Show, "Date Night in the Gardens", February 21 - 24.
Rhode Island Convention Center, Providence, RI

Philadelphia Flower Show, "Jazz It Up", Celebrating the birthplace of Jazz, New Orleans, March 2 - 9. Philadelphia, PA

New England Flower Show, "Rhapsody in Green", the cutting edge of responsible gardening, March 8 -16. Bayside Expo Center, Boston, MA

NatureScapes is sponsoring a bus trip March 2nd & 3rd 2008 to the American Museum of Natural History and the Philadelphia Flower Show. For additional information call Sylvia Carreia at 464-9995

2008 Conference for the Home gardener. University of Connecticut, Storrs, Ct.
An all day conference for the home gardener, from the casual gardener to the Master Gardener. For more information contact Richard McAvoy at 860-486-0627 or email richard.mcavoy@uconn.edu

Stonington Garden Club will be holding its garden tour, "Gardens by the Sea", on Friday, June 20 and Saturday , June 21

Connecticut College Arboretum Winter Spring 2008 Programs

for further information phone: 439-5020 or website at http://arboretum.conncoll.edu or email arbor@conncoll.edu

Feburary

5, 12 & 19 Age of Dinosaurs in Connecticut Valley

March

6 & 13 The Omnivore's Delima: A book discussion
8 The Art of Bonsai: A worksop
22 Finding your way with map & compass
29 Spring Prunning

April

12 Mamacoke Mystries: A spring hike
19 Earth Day / Community Day Celebration
29 Spring Pruning

May

9 & 10 A spring plant sale

MGC 35th Annual Greens Sale Photos

2007-12-06T12:08:00.000-05:00

Greens Sale Trimmings

2007-12-05T20:09:00.000-05:00

For 35 years, the Mystic Garden Club’s main source of revenue has been from our Green Sale. This year’s production was unparalleled in the history of this sale.
Linda McArthur and Barbara Tacy built upon their experience as directors from last year to assemble a strong cast of players and materials with which they could accentuate their art skills.
Nancy Hevenor beat the publicity drum louder than ever before to attract new customers. Thanks to our new wreath supplier, Tim Black (Timbuck 2, 215 Flanders Rd. Groton), the fresh, well-bound greens were a pleasure to decorate.
Our Monday workshops produced high end natural tree trimmings which commanded higher prices and we were able to add to our normal revenue stream with the wooden swans supplied by Pam Arguelles from her husband, Roger’s, workshop.
The productivity of our presale workers was enhanced by the high caloric munchies organized by Candi Briggs. Mary Ann little did her usual great job to ensure that the advanced sale orders were received and delivered. Donations of wreaths were made to the Mystic & Noank Library, the Nature Center, the Denison Homestead, the Mystic River Historical Society, and to the Stonington Historical Society.
As we have recently seen on Broadway, no production can proceed without the stagehands, and Connie Blair’s group of tiers and wirers set the scenery for the main act to come.
Our two gleaners, Sue Johnson and Carol Conor, denuded the countryside of greens which Amy Bush and her staff made into sprays while Barbara Ginsberg and her team made over 100 boxwood trees which quickly sold out.
Amy also organized the pre-performance cocktail party and those who made the food outdid themselves. One of the bartenders, who seeks anonymity, even kept serving the parking attendant the next day.
Before the curtain opened, Pam Arguelles, Jane Bogden and Nancy White made up a beautiful array of custom wreaths for our stage manager Irene Trimble to display indoors while Shinny Stone and Cynthia Benfield worked outdoors cutting the gleaners’ greens into manageable pieces.
In the meantime Peg Maxon was cleaning up underfoot from the beginning until the lights finally went out.
After the curtain fell on Saturday afternoon, Diane Davis and her cashiers gathered the receipts together to discover that all box office records had been shattered on the 35th year of blood, sweat and tears.
Thanks to all of you who kept your covenant with the Garden Club to sacrifice your time and energy after Thanksgiving to help fund the contributions we make to our Community.

Gail Ettinger, President Mystic Garden Club

A Special Thanks to the Co-Chairs - Linda & Barbara

2007-12-02T19:28:00.000-05:00

Linda and Barbara worked all year long to make this - the 35th Annual Greens Sale, the biggest success ever! They are receiving a little of their much deserved thanks and praise.
Celia Gallup, Gail Ettinger, Linda McArthur, Barbara Tacy

These photos were taken by Greg Stone. He has shared them on Shutterfly and you can go to Pictures from Greg Stone to view the rest of the photos and to order prints of any that you'd like.

Gail Ettinger, Amy Bush, Shinny Stone

Amy Bush, Karin Stuart, Diane Davis

Helen Callen, Linda Habib

Ready for people to begin arriving on Day 2!

The Worker Appreciation Party

2007-12-02T19:14:00.000-05:00

The Worker Appreciation was a big success. After the many, many hours that everyone put into the preparations for the Greens Sale it was time for a celebration! The first day was a tremendous success and before the party the walls were refilled and more boxwood trees were quickly assembled. People made phone calls to arrange to cut more greens early the next morning. But tonight it was time for fun and some eating and drinking.

Gail Ettinger, Barbara Ginsberg, Marc Ginsberg

Amy Bush, Mary Ann Little

Clifford Wilson, Elsie Johnson, Joy Molloy

MGC Greens Sale Prepartions

2007-11-30T08:53:00.000-05:00

Double click the green arrow to rerun the slide show

Everyone in the Mystic Garden Club is working diligently on the Mystic Garden Club Greens Sale. The work begins in September and builds to a frenzy of activity by the week after Christmas. Even before the week of assembly women are busy going around cutting and gathering greens from all over town. Holly bushes are trimmed, unwanted evergreens are cut down. Members fill truck beds with greenery.
Meanwhile the pre-orders are taken and organized. So on Monday morning after Thanksgiving decorators and drivers arrive to create and deliver these wreaths all around town. Gift wreaths are given to a number of places around town, including the Nature Center, the Denison Homestead and the Mystic & Noank Library.
By Day 4 it is unbelievable the amount of beautiful decorations that have been lovingly created by skilled hands.
Happily the weather is holding clear through Saturday and we are anticipating a terrific 35th Annual Greens Sale.

Wreath for the Groton Town Hall

2007-11-20T23:03:00.000-05:00

Photo by Pamela Arguelles

Every Year the Mystic Garden Club creates an enormous wreath to hang on the Groton Town Hall. Here is this year's wreath ready for going to the town hall.

Cutler School Science Courtyard

2007-11-18T19:44:00.004-05:00

The Mystic Garden Club donates to many worthwhile causes. Barbara Rousseau has photographed the courtyard of the Cutler School Science Courtyard
They Mystic Garden Club donates to many community organizations. The Cutler School received funds from the Garden Club for their Science Courtyard

Seasonal Decorations along with the plantings

Photos by Barbara Rousseau

MGC November Meeting

2007-11-13T20:30:00.000-05:00

The Mystic Garden Club November Meeting was terrific. The Church Fellowship
was invited to participate. The lunch was delicious as always.

Luncheon Centerpiece Arrangement by Elsie Johnson

Our presentation was by Diane Hartlin did a terrific demonstration on holiday decorations. She began by describing all the materials she uses. She shared her secret of using an old frying pan to melt wax and dip the decorations into the hot wax rather than using picks and wires or a glue gun.

Diane Hartlin showing the centerpiece in process.

Note the frying pan full of hot wax to dip the decorations into.

The centerpieces she created were beautiful. They were raffled off and Ellie won the first one.

Ellie was our first winner!

Our Second Winner Donata Delulio!

Beautiful creations!

The Mystic flower boxes were recently cleaned out. Most boxes contained potato vines and this year was the second annual potato contest. Linda McArthur won for the largest (heaviest) potato. Nancy Noise and Kay Hill won for the longest potato. Carol Connor had the most unusual potato - it looked like it was smiling at us!

Linda McArthur receiving first prize for the largest potato.

Kay Hill receiving the prize for the longest potato

Barbara shows off the most unusual potato.

Sue Johnson shared facts on raising bromeliads.
Mary Katherine Porter and the design committee are doing a series on antique postcards. This month's gorgeous arrangement was inspired by an antique Hawaiian Postcard and created by Mary Katherine.

Garden Therapy at Mystic Manor

2007-11-11T19:29:00.000-05:00

It's known as "Garden Therapy". Every month 8 or 10 members of The Mystic Garden Club visit Mystic Manor Nursing Home. Arms full of greens and flowers, we greeted the 20 or so residents that were assembled in the recreation room that morning. When we arrived the residents were enjoying their morning coffee while listening to the newspaper being read aloud. MGC members were filling baskets with florist foam and clipping the greens and flowers into sizes suitable for the containers.

After the morning news was over, the tables were covered with the old newspapers and the work began. Each resident received a basket to work on. Greens were distributed to the table for the basis of the bouquet.
Many of the residents are frail and some have difficulty pushing the stems into the florist foam. But every resident was intent and delighted in the color and shape of the bouquets as they evolved. Garden club members were there to supply helping hands but most residents took charge of their own creation. "I need a pink and a purple flower" I was told. So I hustled over to the table to find the desired colors. When I was admiring one woman's basket she told me she had gone to school for this. I tried to find out more but she was busy with her flowers. Another resident had both wrists wrapped and placed her stems with difficulty. But I learned that she had been in a Garden Club years ago and she had a definite sense of balance and desire to have her basket just so.

The time just flew by and the baskets took shape. It is amazing how a bunch of assorted greens and mixed flowers turns into 20 or more bouquets.

MGC Beautification Award

2007-11-06T20:22:00.000-05:00

Each year the Mystic Garden Club presents a Beautification Award to the place or business that the club feels deserves recognition for the beautification they have brought to the community. This year the Award went to the Groton Transfer Station for their beautification which is named "Better Dumps and Gardens!" Below is a photo of the award being presented.

Pictured are Pam Arguelles, Gary Schneider and Karin Stuart.

Forcing Tulip Bulbs for Indoor Bloom

2007-10-28T08:49:00.001-04:00

Submitted by Barbara Rousseau

Cover drainage hole of a 6” pot. Fill pot loosely with soil (one part loam, one part peat, one part sand).

Place bulbs flat side out, their tops even with the rim, then add soil to the rim. The first watering will settle soil enough to provide future watering space. Water several times to be sure soil is moist.

Store in a cool dark place at 35° to 50° F in a refrigerator, root cellar, unheated basement, garage or attic, or trench.

Label as to content, color, and date.

Write reminders on your day calendar to water and when to remove from storage to begin forcing period.

At the end of 14 to 15 weeks, bring indoors. For best results, give bulbs a temperature of 60° and direct sunlight. Rotate pot regularly for uniform growth and keep evenly moist. It takes 3 or 4 weeks for bulbs to bloom. When buds begin to color, remove from direct sun.

Bulbs planted on October 1st can be brought indoors around Christmas for bloom 3 or 4 weeks later, mid-October for February flowers, November for March and April flowers.

MGC October Meeting

2007-10-23T16:32:00.000-04:00

The October meeting of the Mystic Garden Club was interesting and entertaining. As always the luncheon was tasty and a wonderful social event. It's a delight to mingle among friends you haven't seen for a while and catch up on their lives. We tried to move lunch along slightly by passing out the soup because our speaker was working on a time deadline.The speaker, Chippy Irvine, was excellent and shared a wonderful slideshow from her book "Shades of Country". The really surprising treat was the song she sang at the end of her presentation about receiving flowers. It was delightful and humorous and I only wish I could reproduce it.
Along with the normal business meeting we enjoyed some wonderful horticultural highlights. Barbara brought in an exotic, spectacular passion flower. I only had a camera phone with me but did my best to get a photograph.

My camera phone picture of Barbara's Passion Flower! How exotic

A better picture I found on the internet - Note Barbara's flower is just as exquisite.

We had a presentation on some great foliage plants for your gardens. Several varieties of persicaria, Red Dragon, Lance Corporal and Painter's Palette. They are low maintenance, shade tolerant, and not appetizing to deer.

Persicaria microcephala 'Red Dragon'

Persicaria microcephala 'Red Dragon'is a vigorous grower that trades one display of color for another as the season rolls along. A clump-forming perennial, 'Red Dragon' does well in combination plantings when mixed with annuals or perennials. It is an excellent product for a 1-gallon program. This new persicaria should be especially enticing to gardeners. It's a non-running form -- sterile so it's not seed invasive, non-stoloniferous so it's not root invasive.
Set off with red stems, this vigorous grower boasts spring leaves that are deep-burgundy with a plum or mint-colored chevron and a metallic sheen. Summer foliage becomes greener, accented by a red leaf margin and a red chevron on a red stem. While cooler areas are rewarded with better color in late summer, 'Red Dragon' is a splendid selection for any garden in the United States and Canada.
Small white flowers appear in early summer, but are insignificant.Height is 24 inches; width can run from 30 to 40 inches. Its growth rate is vigorous but the plant is not invasive. 'Red Dragon' tolerates most soils, including heavy clay. It is suitable for borders, beds, rockeries or as a container perennial.

October by Carol Connor

2007-10-18T20:44:00.000-04:00

Carol Connor provided some Garden Club Photos from today - October 18, 2007
*** Note if you click on the photo it will popup an enlargement. Click on the back button to return to the blog.

Here is a pic from Adopt A Highway program, High St in Mystic. Notice new sign. We had 14 garbage pickers!

L to R Carol McBee, Carol Connor(chairwoman), Alice Butler & Bodil Meyer.
Zooming in to see the new Mystic Garden Club Sign!

Our fall has been so unseasonably warm that there are still many flowers blooming.

This beautiful morning glory is blooming in Barbara Rousseau's garden.

Barbara Rousseau checking her Passion flower buds. One has bloomed a few days ago & only was out 1 day. It is a spectacular bloom she said.

October Guest Speaker - Chippy Irvine

2007-10-16T13:57:00.001-04:00

For our October Guest program we are having Chippy Irvine, the author of “Shades of Country: Designing a Life of Comfort.” The wonderful coffee table style book has something for everyone. She brings you country in many styles from cottage to grand country. The author’s own home is an example of an opulent country style.

“Regardless of your personal aesthetic, there's a style or shade of country that can work for you -- that's the premise of Irvine's latest book. She writes about dozens of real people's homes, including her own in upstate New York, which fall into six categories or chapters: Farmhouse (functional and familiar), Grand Country (stately and traditional), Cozy Cottage (nostalgia and sweet sentiment), Rusticators (romantic retreats), Clean and Simple (Shaker and Swedish country) and Urban Arcadia (eclectic, artistic and edgy). She saves the best for last -- fashion and design maven Marian McEvoy's stylish 1740 stone house on the Hudson River.”--Marge Colborn, The Detroit News

Bank Square Books will be attending the meeting with copies of “Shades of Country: Designing a Life of Comfort” for you to purchase and get autographed.

Chippy’s other books include

Brunschwig & Fils UP CLose: From Grand Rooms to Your Rooms by Murray Douglas & Chippy Irvine
Second Homes (American Design) by Chippy Irvine

2007 MGC Questionnaire Responses

2007-10-16T13:39:00.001-04:00

The following is a summary of the results of the 2007 Mystic Garden Club Membership Questionnaire

By Barbara Ginsberg

Favorite Program

Carole King

Thames River Greenery Garden Rooms - Kevin Joeckel Herb Lady - Jodie Gilson

Peter Cummin

Hands On Demonstrations Holiday Decorating

Garden Design

Christmas

Garden Trips

Arnold Arboretum Back Bay Gardens Boscobel

Boston Flower Show

Bronx Botanical Gardens Brooklyn Botanical Gardens Carole King's gardens Chelsea

Clark Museum

Edith Wharton's house Elizabeth Park in June

Greenwich Garden Education Center Logees

Longwood Gardens and Winterthur Nursery crawl

Philadelphia Flower Show

Roger Williams Park Botanical Center Sod field

Sydney Eddison's garden Wild flower gardens White Flower Farm

Favorite Event

Garden Stroll- 32 votes

House Tour - 14 votes

Flower Show - 7 votes

Suggestions

Become more visible

Better wreaths

Better chairs

Better sound system

Better projector

Name tags in plastic casing

Name tags at Greens Sale workshops

Close Greens Sale at noon or 1 pm on Saturday

Pin on microphone for speaker

Maggie Jones for Hummingbird program

Judy Nickerson for a program

Start meeting between 12:15 and 12:30

Evening meetings

Younger members

Ice water with lemon in glasses at luncheon

Sponsors should know their duties

New member orientation and buddy system for 1 year

Involve new members to feel comfortable stepping up

Inform members of their responsibilities

Each member should be willing to chair a committee

Open and close member's gardens

More gardening activities

Growing rather than decorating and arranging

Don't be afraid to get your hands dirty

Field trips to improve horticulture knowledge

Work with other clubs for input

Going Green - Reusable Shopping Bags

2007-10-14T16:36:00.001-04:00

It's not surprising that the plethora of plastic shopping bags is not good for the environment. I have been reusing my plastic bags whenever I go to a wholesale club but other than that they collect in my kitchen at a prodigious rate. So I decided to buy some reusable shopping bags. I have been very pleased with the bags I've received so I thought I'd share what I've found.

First I bought a nice, light, reinforced roomy bag from Alchemy Goods. It is very surdy and lightweight and it is completely constructed with recycled materials. The bag is made of recycled banner material and the straps are used seat belts with the handle reinforced by used bicycle tires. The resulting bag is handsome, very strong and lightweight. Not inexpensive but I am very happy with it.

Now one bag will just not get me home from the grocery store. So I purchased a group of 5 nylon bags from EnviroSax They carry twice the amount of a typical plastic grocery bag and they are small and light enough to fit in a little sack in my glove compartment.

Now my major obstacle is just remembering to bring these into the stores! I have succeeded a few times so I'm hopeful I can be retrained. They are a pleasure to use - nice and strong and I'm not inundated with more plastic bags to litter our environment. So I heartily endorse both of these items.

Upcoming Events

2007-09-22T12:43:00.000-04:00

Mystic and Noank Library
September 28 Authors and Hors d’oeuvres at 6:30

Denison Pequotsepos Nature
November 10 Silent Auction gala, DNPC major fund raiser

Mystic Arts Center
September 28-November 10 CT Women artists & photo show XXXXIX

Connecticut College Arboretum autumn 2007 Programs

September 28-29-Mum and Pumpkin show
October 11- The environment from a tree’s perspective (lecture/workshop)
October 13- At home with herbs (A lecture/workshop)
October 20 Annual fall Foliage Walk
November 3 Bounty and Beauty in your yard (A Salt seminar)
November 10 Annual Mamacoke Walk (A geology hike)
November 17 Finding your way with maps (an Exploration)
December 1 Creating holiday Wreaths (a workshop)
December 7 Creating Holiday Ornaments (A workshop for children and adults)
December 7 trimming a holiday tree 9 A celebratory event with Arboretum staff)
Garden Education Center of Greenwich
October 15 Ron Morgan! Celebrated Floral Designer at 10AM
October 16 Ron Morgan master class 10 AM
November 9 Jennifer Pfeiffer of Green: floral and events 10:30

Other Events

October 13 unusual plants for woodland and rock gardens-North American
Rock Garden Society, Ct. chapter meeting at Quackin’ Grass Nursery
October 14 CT. Dahlia Society meets at Thomaston Bank, 985 Watertown Rd. Waterbury
October 15 Growing Iris in CT. Ruth Bennett of the CT. Iris Society, Simsbury Garden Club

Did You Know?

2007-09-22T12:42:00.000-04:00

The Mystic Garden Club will be celebrating 35 years, doing the annual “GREEN SALE”
The Lower Mystic cemetery depicts many chapters of our Country’s history. It is the final resting place of veterans from at least three wars. There are five veterans from the War of 1812, who helped to defend Mystic from British coastal raids. We are also honored to have 24 Civil War veterans in our burial place, including Medal of Honor recipient Capt. John Knight Bucklyn who is interred in the mausoleum. In addition, two Spanish-American War veterans are buried in the cemetery-Lucian O. Allen and William Lewis.
There are also two members of he California Gold rush buried there. Three young Mystic men, Charles Sisson, Thomas Wolfe and Ransford Ashby jr. came down with the gold rush fever and left together to search for gold. Failing to find riches, they embarked on a return steamer which landed on the Nicaraguan Isthmus. Ashby died of fever at Chagres, but Wolfe and Sisson returned to Mystic months later, in time to attend Ashby’s burial in lower Mystic. After a successful career as a sea captain, Sisson died in 1885 and was laid to rest not far from our Bradford Pear Tree. His stone bears a representation of a sailing ship.
The Mystic Garden Club has donated $1000 last year to the Lower Mystic Cemetery for mowing the grass there.

Welcome to the Mystic Garden Club Blog

2007-08-21T11:30:00.000-04:00

The Mystic Garden Club blog is a forum for members to share gardening tips, activities and other information pertinent to the organization. It is brought to you by your Publicity Committee. Feel free to post comments and photos for everyone to enjoy.

I hope everyone saw the recent article in the Mystic Times on our Civic Committee. It featured a wonderful photo of members with some of the beautiful plantings on Main Street.

First Place by Hetsy Bisbee

We have been hard at work putting together this year's Annual for you. (The Annual was formerly known as the Yearbook). You should be receiving yours in the mail soon. Be sure to note the dates when you will be serving on Garden Therapy or hostessing a meeting. It is wonderful that so much planning has been done ahead of time. This is truly wonderfully organized. We have endeavored to make the annual as accurate as possible. But we are all human and apologize for any typographical errors that might remain.

Also in your mailing is a flyer on the fall trip to Wave Hill Gardens. These are wonderful gardens - one of the top 10 in the country. Visit their website to get more detail on their gardens. http://www.wavehill.org/ For more details on the trip click on this link www.mysticworkshop.com/MGC/

Please visit often! Feel free to comment. Nancy

2007 Annual Meeting

2007-06-15T20:12:00.000-04:00

For the annual meeting of the Mystic Garden Club members are encouraged to wear a decorated hat. Some members really outdo themselves!

Note you can rerun the photo slideshow by clicking on the green arrow in the center of the photo.

2007 Flower Show

2007-05-18T18:03:00.000-04:00

The Mystic Garden Club had their 2007 Flower Show in May. It was a tremendous success. Member participation was terrific and Barabara's home was a fabulous setting for the show. Unfortunately the weather did not allow outside showings but everyone enjoyed the beautiful arrangements.