A number of respondents to the Newsletter Survey said they would like to see some favorite recipes in future issues. We had some great food at the Recognition Banquet and a couple of people left a copy of the recipe with the food, but I didn’t take the recipe because I wanted others to see it, too.
So…if you have a recipe you want to share with your fellow Master Gardeners, send a copy to me at rcd@nfcexperts.com and I’ll be happy to include in future newsletters. Thanks!
Sunday, July 30, 2006
Refreshments
Whoa! The “Refreshment Team” Blinked! And we almost didn’t have refreshments at the July meeting except for fast work on Cathie Rod’s part. These are our “Teams” for the rest of the year:
August: Anita Waite, Gail Earley, Charlie Spencer
September: Ann Duke, Nancy Gooding
October: Croly Petrea, Mary Ellen Clagett, Grace Wrigley
November: Anne Marie Bellamy – we need someone else – let Cathie know if you can help with November’s refreshments.
August: Anita Waite, Gail Earley, Charlie Spencer
September: Ann Duke, Nancy Gooding
October: Croly Petrea, Mary Ellen Clagett, Grace Wrigley
November: Anne Marie Bellamy – we need someone else – let Cathie know if you can help with November’s refreshments.
Large patch
Treatment, if needed, should start in early September so now’s the time to start thinking about it. Charlie will be writing an article on this problem and on the options and schedule for treating with Bayleton, Banner MAXX, Heritage, etc. for next month. Charlie also mentioned that Wal-Mart may begin to stock less expensive sizes of the effective treatments – which will be a help to the home gardener with not a lot of area to be covered.
Troops collections
We’re collecting items for our troops in Afghanistan, Iraq and elsewhere. There is a box in the lobby of the Extension Center – bring in all those hotel/motel soaps and shampoos that you’ve been saving, and any other toiletry items you have that you want to send to the men and women who are serving our country overseas.
Many Thanks to Gina
We took a few moments at the July General Meeting to thank Gina Britton for all the help she gives the Master Gardener Association’s members and programs. Gina is always happy to work with us on things – most recently she has done a great job of cleaning up the list of past MG classes – and we do appreciate everything she does!
Appointments and resignations
It was announced at the July meeting that Al Hight is returning to the Brunswick County Extension Office as Interim Director, effective August 1. So….welcome back, Al, and we hope you stay for a good long time.
But, we’re going to miss you….
The next time you are in the Extension Office, be sure to stop by and wish Billy Privette the best. He will be retiring at the end of August from his position as Extension Agent, 4-H Youth Development.
And Charlie Spencer announced that he will be retiring at the end of September. The Extension website lists Charlie as “Agricultural Technician,” but we know better… Charlie coordinates and organizes and staffs and mentors and runs things…and he cooks, too.
Both will be sorely missed, but we wish you both well.
But, we’re going to miss you….
The next time you are in the Extension Office, be sure to stop by and wish Billy Privette the best. He will be retiring at the end of August from his position as Extension Agent, 4-H Youth Development.
And Charlie Spencer announced that he will be retiring at the end of September. The Extension website lists Charlie as “Agricultural Technician,” but we know better… Charlie coordinates and organizes and staffs and mentors and runs things…and he cooks, too.
Both will be sorely missed, but we wish you both well.
Other dates
Mark your calendars for the next Coastal Gardening Seminar on September 21. Topic and speakers will be announced soon.
Our next PLANT SALE is scheduled for October 12, 13 and 14. There will be no pre-sale of plants at this or any future plant sale.
The State Fair will be October 20 through 29.
Have we mentioned that the Hot Line needs you? Please sign up and come on in and share all your gardening wisdom with the community.
Our next PLANT SALE is scheduled for October 12, 13 and 14. There will be no pre-sale of plants at this or any future plant sale.
The State Fair will be October 20 through 29.
Have we mentioned that the Hot Line needs you? Please sign up and come on in and share all your gardening wisdom with the community.
Walmart presentation
Charlie will be at the Southport Wal-Mart on September 30 from 10 am to 1 pm to do a presentation on planting trees, large patch treatment and other fall gardening topics. Want to join him? Let him know.
Reunion Garden Party
Planning for the Reunion Garden Party on November 10 is well under way. We expect to invite all current and former Master Gardeners, although we still can’t find a class list for the 1996 class! So, if you graduated that year or if you know anyone who graduated that year, please call Shirley Waggoner-Eisenman (754-4148) because we want to include everyone. We’ll be asking for volunteers to help set up, decorate, clean up, etc., so the work involved goes quickly. If you want to help, let us know.
The Hardscape Team
The Hardscape Team is working on their ‘to-do’ list and is making great headway. The drainage is complete now from the boardwalk to the road. There are always new projects and plantings so Hilton is still looking for members to join the Team – you don’t need previous experience to participate. Let Hilton know if you can help.
August Speaker
Dr. Kenneth A. Sorensen who is a Professor of Entomology at NC State University in Raleigh will be our speaker at the General Meeting on August 24. He has been at NCSU as an Extension Entomologist since 1970, working on fruits and vegetables, and has international experience in Bolivia, Ecuador and India. He is going to talk to us about fruit and vegetable pests around the house and their management.
Wednesday, July 05, 2006
Beach Rock Available for Home Gardens; Contest Gives Oak Island MG a Chance to Shine!
Master Gardeners from throughout the county are invited to the shores of Oak Island this summer to gather beach rock deposited in the sands during the 2001 Sea Turtle Habitat Project, in an environmental initiative sponsored by Oak Island Beach Preservation to rid the beach of the stone to provide an unobstructed strand for beachgoers and turtle nesters.
At the same time, Oak Island MGs have the opportunity to shine by gathering the rock and using it creatively in the Beach Preservation group’s first ever Beach Rock Landscape & Design Contest, which runs from July 1 to Aug. 31 and seeks to reward Oak Island residents who use the unwanted rock in gardens or landscaping projects, for example to outline planting beds or walkways, or to build structures or artistic projects, integrating the rocks with trees, shrubs, flowers and other decorative materials.
The most unique and creative project will be awarded a $150.00 Grand Prize of $100 towards pavers or flagstone materials from Bianchi’s Brickyard Supply plus $50 cash from Beach Preservation. 2nd Prize is a $50 Gift Certificate from Stewart’s Hardware & Garden Center. 3rd Prize is a $25 Gift Certificate from Bridgers Landscape & Garden Center. All entrants will be mailed a coupon for 10% off up to $200.00 in garden merchandise from Lowe’s Home Center, Southport.
Composed of a mixture of limestone and clays and some embedded shells, the naturally beautiful beach rock ranges from the size of golf balls to foot-long boulders. It surfaces mainly between 20th and 50th streets SE, accessed by turning left towards the beach at the second traffic light at 58th Street. It is easiest to collect at low tide and is especially abundant following tropical storms.
Complete contest rules and entry blanks are at OI Town Hall and OI Recreation Center. Judging will be held in September with awards made October 14 at “Celebrate Oak Island.” Entrants do not need to be present to win.
For more information, call Fred or Elizabeth Mina at 278-6205 or visit www.oakislandbeachpreservation.org.
At the same time, Oak Island MGs have the opportunity to shine by gathering the rock and using it creatively in the Beach Preservation group’s first ever Beach Rock Landscape & Design Contest, which runs from July 1 to Aug. 31 and seeks to reward Oak Island residents who use the unwanted rock in gardens or landscaping projects, for example to outline planting beds or walkways, or to build structures or artistic projects, integrating the rocks with trees, shrubs, flowers and other decorative materials.
The most unique and creative project will be awarded a $150.00 Grand Prize of $100 towards pavers or flagstone materials from Bianchi’s Brickyard Supply plus $50 cash from Beach Preservation. 2nd Prize is a $50 Gift Certificate from Stewart’s Hardware & Garden Center. 3rd Prize is a $25 Gift Certificate from Bridgers Landscape & Garden Center. All entrants will be mailed a coupon for 10% off up to $200.00 in garden merchandise from Lowe’s Home Center, Southport.
Composed of a mixture of limestone and clays and some embedded shells, the naturally beautiful beach rock ranges from the size of golf balls to foot-long boulders. It surfaces mainly between 20th and 50th streets SE, accessed by turning left towards the beach at the second traffic light at 58th Street. It is easiest to collect at low tide and is especially abundant following tropical storms.
Complete contest rules and entry blanks are at OI Town Hall and OI Recreation Center. Judging will be held in September with awards made October 14 at “Celebrate Oak Island.” Entrants do not need to be present to win.
For more information, call Fred or Elizabeth Mina at 278-6205 or visit www.oakislandbeachpreservation.org.
Reunion Garden Party
The Reunion Committee is planning a Garden Party for November 10. All current and former Master Gardeners will be invited to this get together. We are compiling an up-to-date list of all our MG class graduates and making good progress except for the 1996 class – we have not been able to find a class list for that year. If you graduated that year and have a list filed away somewhere, we need a copy! Please call Shirley Waggoner-Eisenman (754-4148) if you have a list or know where we can get one. And Mark Your Calendar for November 10.
Hardscape Team
The Hardscape Team is making progress on the tasks to be accomplished. They have already completed repairs to the irrigation system. Hilton is still looking for members to join the Team – you don’t need previous experience to participate in this group. Let Hilton know if you can help.
4-H Summer Youth Program
The 4-H Summer Youth Program will offer three classes at the County Extension Center. We will work with 4-H to provide a version of the “Life on the Farm” series. The first class, for kids ages 6 to 8, will be from 9 – 11 AM on July 25 at the Extension Center. The second, on August 1, for 9 – 12 year olds, and the third on August 15, for kids over 12, will be from 9 AM to Noon, at Extension and in the Greenhouse. Most of the information is already assembled so other than a short meeting before each session, there shouldn’t be much extra work involved. Charlie is looking for volunteers – please call him at 253-2610 if you can help at any of these sessions.
Reminder - state conference
Go to www.ncmastergardeners.org and click on “Events” for information on the State Master Gardener Conference – “Gardening on the Edge.” The conference will be October 2 - 4 in Kill Devil Hills and will feature great speakers and workshops - including grafting, healing powers of herbs, native plants, tough plants for tough places and a ½ day bonsai workshop - plus pre-conference tours. Invitations were mailed in June. The registration fee will be discounted if you register by August 1.
July meeting speaker
At our July 27 General Meeting our speaker will be David Nash, Area Specialized Agent for Coastal Management from the New Hanover Cooperative Extension Office. He will give an overview of the dunes and dune vegetation in Brunswick County. He has co-authored a book on this subject.
Fresh Vegetable Marinade
Recipe from the Recognition Banquet, from the Hamilton County (TN) MG cookbook, submitted by Shirley Waggoner-Eisenman.
Fresh Vegetable Marinade
4 stalks broccoli, cut into flowerets
8 fresh mushrooms, sliced
1 medium green or red pepper, sliced
1 head cauliflower, cut into flowerets
1 small purple onion, chopped (optional)
Marinade:
1 cup sugar ½ cup vinegar
2 tsp dry mustard 1½ cup veg. oil
1 tsp salt 2 tbsp poppy seeds
Place vegetables in a large bowl. Combine all ingredients in marinade and mix well. Pour over vegetables and toss well to coat. Chill at least 3 hours, but not longer than 12 hours (over-chilling will make the vegetables soggy). Remove from marinade to serve.
Fresh Vegetable Marinade
4 stalks broccoli, cut into flowerets
8 fresh mushrooms, sliced
1 medium green or red pepper, sliced
1 head cauliflower, cut into flowerets
1 small purple onion, chopped (optional)
Marinade:
1 cup sugar ½ cup vinegar
2 tsp dry mustard 1½ cup veg. oil
1 tsp salt 2 tbsp poppy seeds
Place vegetables in a large bowl. Combine all ingredients in marinade and mix well. Pour over vegetables and toss well to coat. Chill at least 3 hours, but not longer than 12 hours (over-chilling will make the vegetables soggy). Remove from marinade to serve.
Monday, June 12, 2006
News from Charlie
I didn't have the opportunity to really thank all the folks involved in the Supply School project. Everyone involved seemed to think that it was an outstanding success. Special thanks go to Nancy Einbinder for all the extra efforts that she put forth to insure success. She was the glue that held the whole thing together. This effort is what the Master Gardener Program is all about.
Please help welcome the new Master Gardener class as they pitch in to help us. Most of them have already joined us in our plant sales, etc.; now let's give them some help on the Hot Line. We are trying to develop a "Mentoring Program" to help our new members further. If you can help, please let me or David know.
Please read the updated info above on the volunteer hours required to maintain your status as a Master Gardener. It also contains info on the annual dues required to belong to the MG Association.
I know this is a busy time of the year for all of us. We can use any help on the Hot Line and all the other activities that we do. So any help that you can provide will be greatly appreciated.
Thanks for everything that you all do. This is a great program and it can only happen as a result of each and everyone's efforts. Give yourself a great big pat on the back!
Please help welcome the new Master Gardener class as they pitch in to help us. Most of them have already joined us in our plant sales, etc.; now let's give them some help on the Hot Line. We are trying to develop a "Mentoring Program" to help our new members further. If you can help, please let me or David know.
Please read the updated info above on the volunteer hours required to maintain your status as a Master Gardener. It also contains info on the annual dues required to belong to the MG Association.
I know this is a busy time of the year for all of us. We can use any help on the Hot Line and all the other activities that we do. So any help that you can provide will be greatly appreciated.
Thanks for everything that you all do. This is a great program and it can only happen as a result of each and everyone's efforts. Give yourself a great big pat on the back!
UPCOMING DATES:
• Our Recognition Banquet is June 20. This is our opportunity to honor the new class of Master Gardeners and those who took advanced classes and to relax and visit with each other. Invitations should be going out soon.
• If you want to join Charlie and others for a visit to the daylily farm on June 14, let Charlie know ASAP. We’re planning a trip to the Marietta Daylily Gardens on June 14th. I can take 11 people with me in the Extension van. It's about one and a half hours from here. If you are interested, call and let me know. We will leave here at 7:30 and can pick up some folks at the McDonalds on State Road 904 and US 17 about 8:00. It is a great trip and the owners like us. You will never find betters buys on daylilies. If you can drive, it leaves lots more room for your daylilies! They really take good care of us.
• Don’t forget the Pond Tour on June 10.
• If you want to join Charlie and others for a visit to the daylily farm on June 14, let Charlie know ASAP. We’re planning a trip to the Marietta Daylily Gardens on June 14th. I can take 11 people with me in the Extension van. It's about one and a half hours from here. If you are interested, call and let me know. We will leave here at 7:30 and can pick up some folks at the McDonalds on State Road 904 and US 17 about 8:00. It is a great trip and the owners like us. You will never find betters buys on daylilies. If you can drive, it leaves lots more room for your daylilies! They really take good care of us.
• Don’t forget the Pond Tour on June 10.
General Meeting Speakers
Bryce Lane …was a terrific speaker – he was a lot of fun, very informative and very interesting – he brought a lot of plants and some pots and soil and gave us a great demo on container gardening. And we had a full house for him – it was good to see so many MGs come out for this program.
David Barkley and Shirley Waggoner-Eisenman have the following programs lined up for the rest of the year:
June 22 – Dr. Jeannie Davis, Associate Professor, Extension Specialist, Horticulture Science. Her subject will be Herbs and Other Interesting Specialty Crops for North Carolina.
July 27 – David Nash, Area Specialized Agent, Coastal Management, New Hanover County, will give an overview of the dunes and dune vegetation in Brunswick County. He has co-authored a book on this subject.
August 24 – Dr. Kenneth Sorensen, Professor, Entomology, NCSU, will give a PowerPoint presentation with posters and handouts on Fruit and Vegetable Pests Around the Home and Their Management.
September 28 – Don Gilbert will talk about Hydroponically Grown Fruits and Vegetables.
On October 26, we will hear from Rick Morris re Soil Science and on November 30, Ozzie Coor will discuss Native Plants.
David Barkley and Shirley Waggoner-Eisenman have the following programs lined up for the rest of the year:
June 22 – Dr. Jeannie Davis, Associate Professor, Extension Specialist, Horticulture Science. Her subject will be Herbs and Other Interesting Specialty Crops for North Carolina.
July 27 – David Nash, Area Specialized Agent, Coastal Management, New Hanover County, will give an overview of the dunes and dune vegetation in Brunswick County. He has co-authored a book on this subject.
August 24 – Dr. Kenneth Sorensen, Professor, Entomology, NCSU, will give a PowerPoint presentation with posters and handouts on Fruit and Vegetable Pests Around the Home and Their Management.
September 28 – Don Gilbert will talk about Hydroponically Grown Fruits and Vegetables.
On October 26, we will hear from Rick Morris re Soil Science and on November 30, Ozzie Coor will discuss Native Plants.
Friday, May 05, 2006
Recognition Banquet
Recognition Banquet will be June 20 – Mark Your Calendar and Plan to Come Out and Have a Good Time with Your Fellow Master Gardeners.
Thanks
Thanks from Charlie to everyone who has helped in all the wonderful things that have gone on during the last month. Remember the plant sale on May 18, 19 and 20 – sign up now and avoid the rush. We really need help on the Hot Line. This is the busiest time of the year with lots and lots of interesting questions. For you all who are preparing for visitors and taking trips this summer, please be very careful as we need and want you back in good health. Be careful out there.
Ash is in the greenhouse most mornings, including Saturday and is always happy to have help!
Ash is in the greenhouse most mornings, including Saturday and is always happy to have help!
Memorial Garden
On Sunday afternoon, April 23, A Memorial Garden at the intersection of Moore Street and River Drive in Southport was dedicated to the memory of Sue Jones by the Southport Garden Club. A reception followed in Keziah Park. Sue completed the Master Gardener course in 2000. She was a dedicated member of the Southport Garden Club for many years and was active until shortly before her death in 2005. Her immediate and extended family, members of the Southport Garden Club and many friends were present at the dedication to reflect on Sue’s love of gardening, love of family and her many contributions to the community at large.
When in Southport, please stop by the garden for a moment of reflection. It’s a beautiful memorial.
-Submitted by Ken Morris
When in Southport, please stop by the garden for a moment of reflection. It’s a beautiful memorial.
-Submitted by Ken Morris
A Note from Supply Elementary School:
“The first session of your plant propagation series went beautifully. It was flawless. The teachers and students had a great learning experience. I also heard many wonderful comments from your Master Gardener volunteers. We’re all looking forward to the next session. Thanks for everything.”
-Dwight Willis, March 31, 2006
-Dwight Willis, March 31, 2006
PROJECT UPDATE:
• Our next Plant Sale of the year will be Thursday, May 18 to Saturday, May 20. Our first sale was a great success – let’s make this next one just as successful. Help at the sale (let Charlie know if you’re available) and help in the greenhouse before the sale (a lot of preparation is needed for each sale).
• Hilton is still looking for members to join the Hardscape Team – you don’t need previous experience to participate in this group. Let Hilton know if you can help.
• The Supply Elementary School program was very successful. Charlie and some very able assistants put together an excellent program. Look for the next opportunity to get involved in a school program!
• We need to verify the information on our Membership List. Do we have your correct address, phone number, email address? Check the information the next time you’re at Extension to be sure it’s correct. We’d also like to include your spouse’s or significant other’s name. Thanks.
• Hilton is still looking for members to join the Hardscape Team – you don’t need previous experience to participate in this group. Let Hilton know if you can help.
• The Supply Elementary School program was very successful. Charlie and some very able assistants put together an excellent program. Look for the next opportunity to get involved in a school program!
• We need to verify the information on our Membership List. Do we have your correct address, phone number, email address? Check the information the next time you’re at Extension to be sure it’s correct. We’d also like to include your spouse’s or significant other’s name. Thanks.
May 25th Speaker
Our next general meeting is on May 25 at 9 a.m. Our speaker at that meeting will be Bryce Lane, a national award-winning instructor in the Department of Horticulture Science at NCSU, and host of the PBS series “in the Garden,” a 30-minute weekly educational program which introduces viewers to the science behind gardening. He will provide a hands-on workshop on Container Gardening.
Monday, April 17, 2006
FREE DUMP WEEK:
April 10 – 15, Monday through Saturday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Residents Only. Brunswick County Landfill. They will also be giving away free mulch.
And the Survey Said:
“Thank You” to the 21 MGs who responded to the survey questions. You provided some good feedback and suggestions for future issues.
Of the respondents, 18 read the newsletter online, 3 read the hard copy that is mailed out and one does both. Everyone reads it every month and most read all of it.
Of the items you rated as to their importance, the speakers for upcoming meetings, info on projects and activities, gardening tips and Dave’s gardening information ranked the highest, but everything ranked above average.
As far as adding items of interest, several people said they really weren’t interested but more of you said “Yes” to this and made some suggestions – recipes (especially easy to make ones) for the snacks served at our monthly meetings or at the June banquet and holiday party. Some of you also suggested member news or a “member spotlight” article, cartoons, photos or tips/links to gardening sites on the internet.
So, if you are willing to share the recipe for that great snack or banquet/party food, make a copy and give it to me for a future issue of the newsletter. Or, if you want a recipe, let me know what it is and who provided it and I’ll ask for the recipe to share. I’ll also give some thought to a ‘spotlight’ item and look into the other suggestions.
Only one person never goes to the website; otherwise, it was pretty evenly split among those who visit it weekly, 2 - 4 times a month, monthly or ‘seldom.’ The only other comments were re the redundancy between other areas of the website and the newsletter, a wish for photos in the newsletter, and a comment that all the notifications/emails re what’s available on the website are confusing.
Overall, the feedback was positive and that’s good, and the suggestions were helpful and gave me some ideas to work on. If you come up with other suggestions and ideas, be sure to let me know. I’d like to be sure the newsletter is serving its purpose and is interesting to all its readers.
Thanks.
Becky
Of the respondents, 18 read the newsletter online, 3 read the hard copy that is mailed out and one does both. Everyone reads it every month and most read all of it.
Of the items you rated as to their importance, the speakers for upcoming meetings, info on projects and activities, gardening tips and Dave’s gardening information ranked the highest, but everything ranked above average.
As far as adding items of interest, several people said they really weren’t interested but more of you said “Yes” to this and made some suggestions – recipes (especially easy to make ones) for the snacks served at our monthly meetings or at the June banquet and holiday party. Some of you also suggested member news or a “member spotlight” article, cartoons, photos or tips/links to gardening sites on the internet.
So, if you are willing to share the recipe for that great snack or banquet/party food, make a copy and give it to me for a future issue of the newsletter. Or, if you want a recipe, let me know what it is and who provided it and I’ll ask for the recipe to share. I’ll also give some thought to a ‘spotlight’ item and look into the other suggestions.
Only one person never goes to the website; otherwise, it was pretty evenly split among those who visit it weekly, 2 - 4 times a month, monthly or ‘seldom.’ The only other comments were re the redundancy between other areas of the website and the newsletter, a wish for photos in the newsletter, and a comment that all the notifications/emails re what’s available on the website are confusing.
Overall, the feedback was positive and that’s good, and the suggestions were helpful and gave me some ideas to work on. If you come up with other suggestions and ideas, be sure to let me know. I’d like to be sure the newsletter is serving its purpose and is interesting to all its readers.
Thanks.
Becky
Springtime in Asheville!
Carolina Gardener magazine invites you to the 9th annual Carolina Gardens & Gardeners Symposium and Tours in Asheville, NC, on May 5 and 6, 2006. Visit the North Carolina Arboretum, Peter Loewer’s garden and more beautiful gardens in Asheville, plus shop B.B. Barns and the perennial plant sale at the Botanical Gardens at Asheville. Top off your weekend experience with an evening learning from garden authors Felder Rushing and Barbara Pleasant. You’ll lunch at the Arboretum and stay on to see part of the 65 acres of gardens and their new bonsai collection – the largest in the Southeast. Your stop at the Botanical Garden of Asheville will coincide with the garden’s annual native plant sale, which draws selections from nurseries from around the region, and a B.B. Barns, an exceptional regional garden center. If you wish to extend your visit with a tour of the world-famous Biltmore Estate gardens, you can purchase tickets at discounted rates at the hotel where you stay.
We are looking for MGs who might be interested in attending as a group. For more information or to sign on, contact Arlene Hubner at 253-3269 or ahubner@ec.rr.com.
We are looking for MGs who might be interested in attending as a group. For more information or to sign on, contact Arlene Hubner at 253-3269 or ahubner@ec.rr.com.
National Volunteer Week
National Volunteer Week will be celebrated from April 23-29, 2006. The Volunteer Center of Brunswick County is hosting a Special Recognition Celebration on April 26, 2006, 3:30 to 5:00 p.m. at the Odell Williamson Auditorium, Brunswick Community College. There will be a reception and refreshments from 3:30 to 4:15 followed by a program to honor all volunteers beginning at 4:15 with guest speaker Frank Capra, Jr. There will be door prizes and a special thank-you gift for each volunteer. Please RSVP by April 17 by calling the Extension Center office.
Project Update
• Our first Plant Sale of the year will be Thursday, April 20 – Saturday, April 22. (You can do your shopping early, on the 19th from 9 a.m. until noon.) Let Charlie know if you can help out during the sale. Come in before then and help Ash out in the greenhouse – the sale takes a lot of preparation.
• Hilton is still looking for members to join the Hardscape Team – you don’t need previous experience to participate in this group. Let Hilton know if you can help.
• The Supply Elementary School program has had a very successful beginning. Everyone seemed to really enjoy the activities, including the MG instructors. If other schools hear about this, we may have more than we can handle. Thanks to everyone involved in the effort. We have two more sessions scheduled – April 4-5 and April 25-26.
• We will be working at the Dosher Nursing Home on a project with the Oak Island Beautification Club to improve a small courtyard. Let Charlie know if you are interested in this project.
• We continue to explore the possibility of a new program at Shallotte Middle School – keep watching for details as (or if) the program comes to be.
• The NCMGVA Board of Directors meeting will be held here in Brunswick County at the Extension Building on April 17 at 10 a.m. All Master Gardeners are welcome. Let Shirley Waggoner-Eisenman know if you plan to attend so lunch can be arranged for you.
• Turf and Vegetable Seminars:
o Thursday, April 7, 2:00 p.m., Hickman’s Crossroads Library
o Thursday, April 13, 2:00 p.m., Southport Library
o Thursday, April 15, 11:00 a.m., Southport Wal-Mart
o Wednesday, April 19, 10:00 a.m., Leland Library
• The Hot Line needs you!
• Supply Elementary has asked us to help them develop a garden area – we are exploring this potential project.
• There will be a plant clinic for MGs at Brunswick Community College from 10:15 to 12:15 on May 2.
• Ash has lots of projects in the greenhouse that can use some extra help, among them starting @700 tomato plants for the students and teachers at Supply Elementary School, and all the preparation for the April plant sale. Ash is in the greenhouse most mornings, including Saturday.
• Hilton is still looking for members to join the Hardscape Team – you don’t need previous experience to participate in this group. Let Hilton know if you can help.
• The Supply Elementary School program has had a very successful beginning. Everyone seemed to really enjoy the activities, including the MG instructors. If other schools hear about this, we may have more than we can handle. Thanks to everyone involved in the effort. We have two more sessions scheduled – April 4-5 and April 25-26.
• We will be working at the Dosher Nursing Home on a project with the Oak Island Beautification Club to improve a small courtyard. Let Charlie know if you are interested in this project.
• We continue to explore the possibility of a new program at Shallotte Middle School – keep watching for details as (or if) the program comes to be.
• The NCMGVA Board of Directors meeting will be held here in Brunswick County at the Extension Building on April 17 at 10 a.m. All Master Gardeners are welcome. Let Shirley Waggoner-Eisenman know if you plan to attend so lunch can be arranged for you.
• Turf and Vegetable Seminars:
o Thursday, April 7, 2:00 p.m., Hickman’s Crossroads Library
o Thursday, April 13, 2:00 p.m., Southport Library
o Thursday, April 15, 11:00 a.m., Southport Wal-Mart
o Wednesday, April 19, 10:00 a.m., Leland Library
• The Hot Line needs you!
• Supply Elementary has asked us to help them develop a garden area – we are exploring this potential project.
• There will be a plant clinic for MGs at Brunswick Community College from 10:15 to 12:15 on May 2.
• Ash has lots of projects in the greenhouse that can use some extra help, among them starting @700 tomato plants for the students and teachers at Supply Elementary School, and all the preparation for the April plant sale. Ash is in the greenhouse most mornings, including Saturday.
Master Gardener Conferences
Information on the State Master Gardener Conference – “Gardening on the Edge” - is now available on the NCMGVA web site – go to http://ncmastergardeners.org/new_page_1.htm. The conference is scheduled for October 2 - 4 in Kill Devil Hills. This conference will feature great speakers and workshops, plus pre-conference tours. Watch for your invitation packet this summer.
Information on the Southern Region Master Gardener Conference in Chattanooga, TN on June 8 - 11 is also on this web site, also under “Events.” This too looks like an excellent conference, with lots of good seminars and activities.
Information on the Southern Region Master Gardener Conference in Chattanooga, TN on June 8 - 11 is also on this web site, also under “Events.” This too looks like an excellent conference, with lots of good seminars and activities.
April and May Meeting Speakers
The speaker at our April 27 meeting will be Dr. Lane Tredway, Assistant Professor of Plant Pathology at North Carolina State University in Raleigh. Dr. Tredway has a B.S. in Agronomy from Penn State Univ., a M.S. in Plant Science from Rutgers Univ., and a Ph.D. in Plant Pathology from the Univ. of Georgia. His subject will be “Turf Diseases: Identification, Management and Control.” The meeting will begin at 9 a.m.
The May meeting will feature Bryce Lane, in the department of Horticulture Science at NCSU, and host of the PBS series “in the Garden,” who will provide a hands-on workshop on Container Gardening.
The May meeting will feature Bryce Lane, in the department of Horticulture Science at NCSU, and host of the PBS series “in the Garden,” who will provide a hands-on workshop on Container Gardening.
Friday, March 03, 2006
DOT request
We have been asked to work with the Dept. of Transportation to preserve an endangered day lily plant in the area of the new Sunset Beach high rise bridge. We will monitor the plants and once they finish blooming, collect seeds, plant them in temporary beds holding beds while the bridge is under construction, and then help replant them once construction is complete.
NCMGVA Board of Directors Meeting
The NCMGVA Board of Directors will meet here in Brunswick County at the Extension building on April 17 at 10:00 a.m. All Master Gardeners are welcome. Let Shirley Waggoner-Eisenman know if you plan to attend, as lunch will be served.
Southern Regional Conference
Chattanooga, TN will host the Southern Regional Master Gardener Conference on June 8 thru 11 this year. You can find information on this conference at http://srmgc.tennessee.edu
Botanical Garden
We are fast approaching the time of year when bulbs, perennials, shrubs and trees come to life and, wonder of wonder, millions of weeds. It is a favorite time for me and I hope for you as well. When you read this, it will be happening in our Botanical Garden. The garden is an every-changing, ever-growing project.
I would like to invite any Master Gardeners to come and join one of our work teams. Right now we are working the 1st and 3rd Mondays and the 2nd Tuesday of the month. Each team works one time a month. Spring is a very busy time in the garden and greenhouse and we could use more help. We do weeding, light pruning, mulch spreading, planting, etc. Hilton and David Barkley check the garden to prepare our chore list and Davis is usually there to give direction. It is a great way to gain knowledge and meet some really neat people.
Also, Ash Tyler could use help in the greenhouse/hoop house. He is there almost every morning and would love the help. Remember our plant sale is our “Biggest Fundraiser” and it requires many work hours from many people. We hope everyone will participate in some capacity.
If you would like to help, please call Hilton Holcomb – 575-4943, Ash Tyler – 278-6101 or me -253-0195. We would love to have you join us!
Happy gardening,
Maggie Hoon
I would like to invite any Master Gardeners to come and join one of our work teams. Right now we are working the 1st and 3rd Mondays and the 2nd Tuesday of the month. Each team works one time a month. Spring is a very busy time in the garden and greenhouse and we could use more help. We do weeding, light pruning, mulch spreading, planting, etc. Hilton and David Barkley check the garden to prepare our chore list and Davis is usually there to give direction. It is a great way to gain knowledge and meet some really neat people.
Also, Ash Tyler could use help in the greenhouse/hoop house. He is there almost every morning and would love the help. Remember our plant sale is our “Biggest Fundraiser” and it requires many work hours from many people. We hope everyone will participate in some capacity.
If you would like to help, please call Hilton Holcomb – 575-4943, Ash Tyler – 278-6101 or me -253-0195. We would love to have you join us!
Happy gardening,
Maggie Hoon
April Plant Sale
It’s time to beginning preparing for the April Plant Sale. We need to plant seeds, repot, trim and prune and move plants around. Please come on in and help us get ready for the sale. Ash is here almost every morning and can show you what needs to be done. The plant sale is our primary fund raiser and there is a LOT to do. Call Charlie if you want to work in the afternoon and he will let you know what needs to be done.
Coastal Garden Club meeting
The Coastal Garden Club has invited us to join them when they host Alessandro Tombelli at their monthly meeting, at 1 p.m. on March 20 at the Brunswick Electric Company in Supply. Alessandro has a vast resume of international garden restoration and design experience. He graduated with a degree in Horticulture from the National Horticultural Institute of Florence and has continued to expand his knowledge by attending The Royal Horticultural Society’s Garden in Wisley, England, the Institute of Advanced Architectural Studies in York, England and the Scuola Agraria di Monza in Milan, Italy. Alessandro is currently a garden consultant and advisor to many historic villas and estates across Europe. With his expert knowledge of horticulture, he has given lectures, consulted for a television program and currently organizes and leads Globalgardens tours. He is a member of both The Royal Horticultural Society and the British Professional Gardeners’ Guild.
Space is limited – both in the meeting room and in the parking lot. We are limited to the first 40 people who sign up. If you want to attend and hear this interesting speaker, call Bette at Extension (253-2610). We will meet in the parking lot behind Extension and use the vans and carpool. There will be a $3.50 fee at the door.
Space is limited – both in the meeting room and in the parking lot. We are limited to the first 40 people who sign up. If you want to attend and hear this interesting speaker, call Bette at Extension (253-2610). We will meet in the parking lot behind Extension and use the vans and carpool. There will be a $3.50 fee at the door.
Coastal Garden Seminar
“Meeting Your Plants’ Needs”
March 31, 2006
9:00 A.M. – 3:00 P.M.
David Hardy, NC Dept. of Agriculture Soils Lab, re soil samples, analysis, soil problems
Dr. William Fonteno, Professor, Horticultural Science, NCSU, re: building urban soils
And more to be announced.
Call the Extension Office to register.
March 31, 2006
9:00 A.M. – 3:00 P.M.
David Hardy, NC Dept. of Agriculture Soils Lab, re soil samples, analysis, soil problems
Dr. William Fonteno, Professor, Horticultural Science, NCSU, re: building urban soils
And more to be announced.
Call the Extension Office to register.
The Hardscape Team
This promises to be a busy group with some interesting projects on the agenda. Here are some that are waiting for spring time and drier weather to get started:
1. Work on irrigation in the garden and around Building N.
2. Install drainage at the garden to include the center circle.
3. Modify the pump station doors, install drainage and complete path
4. Install terraces at rear of biofalls and repair steps up the bank.
5. Pressure clean, spray and waterproof the deck and walkways.
6. Plan and install drip irrigation for containers in front and rear of building.
7. Install a pathway to Building F.
8. Plan and install drainage at the greenhouse area.
If you would like to join this team let Hilton know (575-4943; hholcomb@atmc.net).
1. Work on irrigation in the garden and around Building N.
2. Install drainage at the garden to include the center circle.
3. Modify the pump station doors, install drainage and complete path
4. Install terraces at rear of biofalls and repair steps up the bank.
5. Pressure clean, spray and waterproof the deck and walkways.
6. Plan and install drip irrigation for containers in front and rear of building.
7. Install a pathway to Building F.
8. Plan and install drainage at the greenhouse area.
If you would like to join this team let Hilton know (575-4943; hholcomb@atmc.net).
We've Got Projects
Check out these great opportunities to get involved with our community and share your gardening know-how:
• The Home and Garden Show at West Brunswick High School on March 24-26. Let Richard know if you want to help out (579-5791 or rboland@atmc.net)
• Our first Plant Sale of the year will be Thursday April 20 – Saturday April 22. Charlie’s looking for volunteers.
• Hilton is looking for members to join the Hardscape Team – you don’t need previous experience to participate in this group. A list of projects on the current To-Do List is on page 2. Let Hilton know if you’re interested.
• The Supply Middle School program gets under way with the training session on March 2.
• We have had an inquiry from Shallotte Middle School about working with their students – watch for more news on this.
• Have also had an inquiry from Communities in Schools re: working with them. More info to come if this develops.
• The Home and Garden Show at West Brunswick High School on March 24-26. Let Richard know if you want to help out (579-5791 or rboland@atmc.net)
• Our first Plant Sale of the year will be Thursday April 20 – Saturday April 22. Charlie’s looking for volunteers.
• Hilton is looking for members to join the Hardscape Team – you don’t need previous experience to participate in this group. A list of projects on the current To-Do List is on page 2. Let Hilton know if you’re interested.
• The Supply Middle School program gets under way with the training session on March 2.
• We have had an inquiry from Shallotte Middle School about working with their students – watch for more news on this.
• Have also had an inquiry from Communities in Schools re: working with them. More info to come if this develops.
State MG Conference
Information on the State MG Conference will soon be available on the NCMGVA web site – click under ‘Events” – www.ncmastergardeners.org. The conference is scheduled for October 2 - 4 in Kill Devil Hills. This conference will feature great speakers and workshops, plus pre-conference tours. Watch for your invitation packet this summer
March Meeting Speaker
THE SPEAKER AT OUR MARCH MEETING…will be Dr. Tom Creswell, Manager of the Plant Disease and Insect Clinic in the Plant Pathology Department at North Carolina State University in Raleigh. He will talk to us about “Ornamental Diseases Common to Our Area.”
The meeting will be on March 23 at 9 a.m. The April meeting will be on the 27th – Dr. Lane Tredway, Assistant Professor of Plant Pathology at NCSU will be there to tell us about the identification, management and control of turf diseases.
Shirley and David have been working hard to put together a great group of speakers and topics for our meetings. So be sure to put all these meetings on your schedule and come take advantage of these great opportunities to add to your gardening knowledge.
The meeting will be on March 23 at 9 a.m. The April meeting will be on the 27th – Dr. Lane Tredway, Assistant Professor of Plant Pathology at NCSU will be there to tell us about the identification, management and control of turf diseases.
Shirley and David have been working hard to put together a great group of speakers and topics for our meetings. So be sure to put all these meetings on your schedule and come take advantage of these great opportunities to add to your gardening knowledge.
Monday, February 06, 2006
A Taste of China:
The Extension and Community Association, directed by Susan Morgan, would like our help in preparing food for their annual cultural program. The theme this year is China with an emphasis on history and cuisine. As in years past, the ECA is asking MGs to prepare food for the tasting program, which will be on Saturday, March 11 in the Extension Training Room. Those who prepare a dish (or two) will receive special treatment:
• A special guest table with the privilege of going through the line first
• A complementary cookbook with recipes for all the featured dishes
• The tasting is free to all preparers (you guests will have to pay)
Save your receipts for reimbursement. For more information call Susan Morgan or Bette Rose at the Extension (253-2610).
• A special guest table with the privilege of going through the line first
• A complementary cookbook with recipes for all the featured dishes
• The tasting is free to all preparers (you guests will have to pay)
Save your receipts for reimbursement. For more information call Susan Morgan or Bette Rose at the Extension (253-2610).
Volunteer in the greenhouse!
Ash is in the Greenhouse every morning – why not come in and help him out – Wednesday is the most popular morning for working in the Greenhouse, but he would appreciate your help any morning!
Pro Days Seminar and Trade Show
The NC Cooperative Extension Service will present the 6th Annual Regional Pro Days Seminar and Trade Show for area “Green Industry” workers and plant professional on Wed. and Thurs., Feb. 15 and 16, across from the Leland Industrial Park. The schedule of events will include a number of seminars, e.g., on turfgrass weed management, pesticide application, pesticide disposal, ornamental and turfgrass diseases and insects, plus exhibits featuring equipment, plants and landscape supplies, and finally, educational programs offering NCDA pesticide recertification credits; pesticide applicators will be eligible to receive specialty credits to satisfy their “X.” For information, contact Matt Martin or David Barkley at 253-2610 or Al Hight at 259-1235.
Supply Elementary School
We have an exciting new program coming up at Supply Elementary School working with students in the K through 5 classes, and Charlie will need a lot of Master Gardeners to volunteer some time to make this a success.
The program will cover three topics and we will be working with students in two age groups: Kindergarten through 2nd grade and grades 3 through 5. A brief overview of the topics is:
Propagation, March 21 and 22: We will provide each classroom with containers with growing plants/seedlings, plus measuring devices for water and plant growth. The pots will have 3 types of soil – sand, clay and loam. Students will learn how to care for the plant and will keep charts until we return in April.
Soils, April 11 and 12: Review what students learn re: plant growth in the three different soil types. The program will involve what plants require for growth and why plants grow in certain environments and not in others, as well as how soils are amended to provide what plants need to grow. We will also ask the cafeteria staff to save plastic containers to use in each classroom to collect scarps or discarded fruits and vegetable from the tasting breaks; then put the scraps into a compost bin which we will provide the school.
Compost and Worm Bins: April 25 and 26. This will be an outside program. We do final plant measurements and will bring the worm bin so student can see and touch the worm and see how worms aid in the soil. Also, at this class we’ll give each student a plant to take home, probably a tomato plant.
Charlie is looking for volunteers to work on this project and others that may develop. If you want participate, let Charlie know.
The program will cover three topics and we will be working with students in two age groups: Kindergarten through 2nd grade and grades 3 through 5. A brief overview of the topics is:
Propagation, March 21 and 22: We will provide each classroom with containers with growing plants/seedlings, plus measuring devices for water and plant growth. The pots will have 3 types of soil – sand, clay and loam. Students will learn how to care for the plant and will keep charts until we return in April.
Soils, April 11 and 12: Review what students learn re: plant growth in the three different soil types. The program will involve what plants require for growth and why plants grow in certain environments and not in others, as well as how soils are amended to provide what plants need to grow. We will also ask the cafeteria staff to save plastic containers to use in each classroom to collect scarps or discarded fruits and vegetable from the tasting breaks; then put the scraps into a compost bin which we will provide the school.
Compost and Worm Bins: April 25 and 26. This will be an outside program. We do final plant measurements and will bring the worm bin so student can see and touch the worm and see how worms aid in the soil. Also, at this class we’ll give each student a plant to take home, probably a tomato plant.
Charlie is looking for volunteers to work on this project and others that may develop. If you want participate, let Charlie know.
NEWS FROM CHARLIE:
Please remember that to be a Master Gardener you must have completed all the requirements each and every year. There have been some occurrences where folks have claimed to be Master Gardeners and they have not completed and maintained their obligations. This is a violation of the law.
What a great success the Blazichs’ seminars were. We not only paid for all their expenses but also made a little bit of money as a result. We helped out our friends in 4H as well since they provided the meal. Our visitors seemed to really enjoy themselves and hopefully they will come back for the next one.
Speaking of which, the North Brunswick Expo was a great success also. Twice as many people attended as last year and there were lots of new questions. We must have over 20 "Newcomers Kits" to pass out.
Which brings on the next topic, which is all the seminars coming up. I will be contacting you on the Supply Elementary School project. Other upcoming seminars include: Feb. 16th, Southport Library, 2:00-3:00 PM, subject "Are you ready for Spring?"; Southport Wal-Mart, Feb.18th, 10:00-1:00, seminar at 11:00, same subject as above; Feb. 20, Coastal Garden Club, BMEC room, 1:00-2:00 PM, “Preparing for Spring”; Mar. 1st, Welcome Center in Southport, 1:00-2:00 PM, "Composting"; Mar. 8th, Leland Library, 10:00-11:00 AM, "Are you ready for Spring?"; Mar. 24-26th, "Home and Garden Show" at West Brunswick High School. I'm sure other things will come up. Please remember these events and I will call if you live in the area and ask for some help signing folks in and selling books, etc.
What a great year we had in 2005 and it looks like this year will be even better. New class starts Feb 8th; stop in and say "Hi" to our new members. Help make them feel at home!
Charlie,
PS, I almost forgot, Mar 31st is the all-day "Coastal Garden Seminar" We will invite the public again and try and cover expenses. Billy Privette and 4H will again prepare the food. Topics will be provided at a later date.
What a great success the Blazichs’ seminars were. We not only paid for all their expenses but also made a little bit of money as a result. We helped out our friends in 4H as well since they provided the meal. Our visitors seemed to really enjoy themselves and hopefully they will come back for the next one.
Speaking of which, the North Brunswick Expo was a great success also. Twice as many people attended as last year and there were lots of new questions. We must have over 20 "Newcomers Kits" to pass out.
Which brings on the next topic, which is all the seminars coming up. I will be contacting you on the Supply Elementary School project. Other upcoming seminars include: Feb. 16th, Southport Library, 2:00-3:00 PM, subject "Are you ready for Spring?"; Southport Wal-Mart, Feb.18th, 10:00-1:00, seminar at 11:00, same subject as above; Feb. 20, Coastal Garden Club, BMEC room, 1:00-2:00 PM, “Preparing for Spring”; Mar. 1st, Welcome Center in Southport, 1:00-2:00 PM, "Composting"; Mar. 8th, Leland Library, 10:00-11:00 AM, "Are you ready for Spring?"; Mar. 24-26th, "Home and Garden Show" at West Brunswick High School. I'm sure other things will come up. Please remember these events and I will call if you live in the area and ask for some help signing folks in and selling books, etc.
What a great year we had in 2005 and it looks like this year will be even better. New class starts Feb 8th; stop in and say "Hi" to our new members. Help make them feel at home!
Charlie,
PS, I almost forgot, Mar 31st is the all-day "Coastal Garden Seminar" We will invite the public again and try and cover expenses. Billy Privette and 4H will again prepare the food. Topics will be provided at a later date.
A Note from Kathy Walters
Thank you so much for the lovely South Sea pearl and silver brooch and the plaque you presented me upon my resignation from the Cooperative Extension Service. I will treasure them always…but most of all, I treasure the Brunswick County Master Gardeners! So many of you have been in touch and expressed such kindness – I can’t thank you enough for your thoughtfulness! I am so fortunate to know you and to count you among from friends!
February's Speaker
Don’t miss the February meeting. Our speaker will be Phyllis Meiloe. She will speak about “Ability Gardening: the Use of Garden Tools to Make Gardening Easier for Seniors.”
February Meetings:
Board, Feb 16, 9 a.m.
General Meeting, Feb 23, 9 a.m.
February Meetings:
Board, Feb 16, 9 a.m.
General Meeting, Feb 23, 9 a.m.
Richard's Ramblings
What a great way to start the New Year! We had a well attended, productive business meeting and who didn’t benefit from the “double dip” program. “Team Blazich” can’t be beat!
Shirley and David have worked hard to offer us a dazzling line up of programs for the remainder of 2006 and far into 2007. Many of us have had a chance to glimpse the roster of those who will be presenting programs and I don’t want to miss out on a single one - to do so would be to throw away an extraordinary learning opportunity.
Remember, too, that YOU are the association. What goes on at business meetings concerns YOU! Mark your calendar so you can be at every meeting. Your participation is valued!
Thanks for all you do for Master Gardening and have a great month!
Richard
Shirley and David have worked hard to offer us a dazzling line up of programs for the remainder of 2006 and far into 2007. Many of us have had a chance to glimpse the roster of those who will be presenting programs and I don’t want to miss out on a single one - to do so would be to throw away an extraordinary learning opportunity.
Remember, too, that YOU are the association. What goes on at business meetings concerns YOU! Mark your calendar so you can be at every meeting. Your participation is valued!
Thanks for all you do for Master Gardening and have a great month!
Richard
Wednesday, January 04, 2006
A Message From The President: New Year's Resolutions
As a rule I avoid making New Year’s resolutions as they usually last until January 2. But as we embark upon a new year as a Master Gardener chapter I thought I’d give it one more shot. So, here goes.
I resolve:
1. To lend a hand whenever I can.
2. To look for ways to make new ideas work and not for reasons they won’t.
3. That when in doubt I’ll check things out and not make negative assumptions.
4. To help others succeed, and celebrate their accomplishments.
5. To speak positively about others and about the organization. Someone might be listening.
6. To maintain a positive attitude no matter what the circumstances.
7. To act with initiative and courage, believing that if it‘s to be, it‘s up to me.
8. To act with enthusiasm. I have found it to be contagious.
9. That whatever I want for myself (recognition, respect, loyalty, etc.) I will give to others.
10. To keep faith and never give up.
I know this sounds ambitious but I think it’s worth a try. I invite you to join with me in working for an exciting and productive year of growing our chapter.
Happy New Year…..Richard
I resolve:
1. To lend a hand whenever I can.
2. To look for ways to make new ideas work and not for reasons they won’t.
3. That when in doubt I’ll check things out and not make negative assumptions.
4. To help others succeed, and celebrate their accomplishments.
5. To speak positively about others and about the organization. Someone might be listening.
6. To maintain a positive attitude no matter what the circumstances.
7. To act with initiative and courage, believing that if it‘s to be, it‘s up to me.
8. To act with enthusiasm. I have found it to be contagious.
9. That whatever I want for myself (recognition, respect, loyalty, etc.) I will give to others.
10. To keep faith and never give up.
I know this sounds ambitious but I think it’s worth a try. I invite you to join with me in working for an exciting and productive year of growing our chapter.
Happy New Year…..Richard
Upcoming Events
• Board Meetings: Jan. 19, Feb. 16, March 16…
• General Meetings: Jan. 26, Feb. 23, March 23…
• Board and General Meetings will start at 9 a.m. unless you get notice of a change.
• The second annual Business Expo will be held at the Leland Fire House January 28. We will have a booth – sign up to help staff the booth.
• The new Master Gardener class starts Feb. 8
• The Forestry Service will provide trees for our give-away sometime in February. We are promised a much better selection this year. We can use volunteers to help with this.
• The Home and Garden Show is March 25 and 26 at the West Brunswick High School. We will have a booth both days. See Charlie to sign up.
• We will hold a Coastal Gardening Seminar on March 31 in the Extension Training room, with guest speakers and lunch, and will charge a small fee. Sign up to help with this event.
• On April 15 there will be a waste collection for homeowners, and we will conduct a plant clinic at the Southport Wal-Mart.
• Our first Plant Sale of the year will be April 20 – 22.
• The second Plant Sale will be May 18 – 20. Sign up to help with one or both of these events.
• There will be a Pond Management Seminar on May 4. This will be an all-day seminar, and lunch will be provided for a small charge.
• Our annual Recognition Banquet is scheduled for June 20..
• General Meetings: Jan. 26, Feb. 23, March 23…
• Board and General Meetings will start at 9 a.m. unless you get notice of a change.
• The second annual Business Expo will be held at the Leland Fire House January 28. We will have a booth – sign up to help staff the booth.
• The new Master Gardener class starts Feb. 8
• The Forestry Service will provide trees for our give-away sometime in February. We are promised a much better selection this year. We can use volunteers to help with this.
• The Home and Garden Show is March 25 and 26 at the West Brunswick High School. We will have a booth both days. See Charlie to sign up.
• We will hold a Coastal Gardening Seminar on March 31 in the Extension Training room, with guest speakers and lunch, and will charge a small fee. Sign up to help with this event.
• On April 15 there will be a waste collection for homeowners, and we will conduct a plant clinic at the Southport Wal-Mart.
• Our first Plant Sale of the year will be April 20 – 22.
• The second Plant Sale will be May 18 – 20. Sign up to help with one or both of these events.
• There will be a Pond Management Seminar on May 4. This will be an all-day seminar, and lunch will be provided for a small charge.
• Our annual Recognition Banquet is scheduled for June 20..
Educational Training Programs for 2006
Our speakers for the first six months of the year have all been confirmed and we have a great roster of speakers and subjects. Please put these on your calendar, come to meetings to hear these interesting speakers and learn about their areas. Here’s the lineup for January through June:
January 26: Dr. Frank and April Blazich. This is going to be a double-header and both sessions will be open to the public. So come early and get your space! Dr. Frank and April are both very interesting and engaging speakers. April will conduct an herb seminar following the General Meeting, from @ 10:15 to noon. We will serve lunch from noon to 1 p.m. and then Dr. Frank will show us how to take hardwood cuttings. While the public will pay a fee for these seminars, they are free of charge for Active Master Gardeners.
February 23: Phyllis Meiole. Phyllis will speak on the topic of “Ability Gardening: the Use of Garden Tools to Make Gardening Easier for Seniors.”
March 23: Dr. Tom Creswell. Dr. Creswell is Plant Disease and Insect Clinic Manager in the Department of Plant Pathology at NCSU. He will speak to us about “Ornamental Pathology.”
April 27: Dr. Lane Tredway, Assistant Professor of Plant Pathology at NCSU. His subject will be “Turf Diseases: Identification, Management and Control.”
May 25: Bryce Lane. Mr. Lane is the host of the PBS series “In the Garden” and a national award-winning instructor in the Department of Horticultural Science at NCSU. He will conduct a hands-on workshop on “Container Gardening.”
June 22: Dr. Jeannie Davies. Dr. Davies is Associate Professor, Extension Specialist, Horticulture Science, NCSU. Her subject will be “Herbs and Other Interesting Specialty Crops for North Carolina.”
January 26: Dr. Frank and April Blazich. This is going to be a double-header and both sessions will be open to the public. So come early and get your space! Dr. Frank and April are both very interesting and engaging speakers. April will conduct an herb seminar following the General Meeting, from @ 10:15 to noon. We will serve lunch from noon to 1 p.m. and then Dr. Frank will show us how to take hardwood cuttings. While the public will pay a fee for these seminars, they are free of charge for Active Master Gardeners.
February 23: Phyllis Meiole. Phyllis will speak on the topic of “Ability Gardening: the Use of Garden Tools to Make Gardening Easier for Seniors.”
March 23: Dr. Tom Creswell. Dr. Creswell is Plant Disease and Insect Clinic Manager in the Department of Plant Pathology at NCSU. He will speak to us about “Ornamental Pathology.”
April 27: Dr. Lane Tredway, Assistant Professor of Plant Pathology at NCSU. His subject will be “Turf Diseases: Identification, Management and Control.”
May 25: Bryce Lane. Mr. Lane is the host of the PBS series “In the Garden” and a national award-winning instructor in the Department of Horticultural Science at NCSU. He will conduct a hands-on workshop on “Container Gardening.”
June 22: Dr. Jeannie Davies. Dr. Davies is Associate Professor, Extension Specialist, Horticulture Science, NCSU. Her subject will be “Herbs and Other Interesting Specialty Crops for North Carolina.”
Reminders from Charlie!!
Are your timesheets for 2005 up to date? If not, please fill in all the required information as soon as possible.
Each Master Gardener is required to sign a Certification Agreement each year. Please see Charlie or check in the Hotline Office for a copy to sign, and give it to Charlie, David or Bette at the front desk.
Each Master Gardener is required to sign a Certification Agreement each year. Please see Charlie or check in the Hotline Office for a copy to sign, and give it to Charlie, David or Bette at the front desk.
State Association News:
The next Board of Directors meeting will be held January 8 at the Johnston County Extension Building, beginning at 10 a.m. The April Board meeting will be here in Brunswick County on April 17 at 10 a.m. All Master Gardeners may attend any or all Board meetings (only delegates may vote on issues brought before the Board). If you plan to attend a Board meeting, please let Shirley Waggoner-Eisenman know.
The Regional Master Gardener Conference will be held June 8 – 12 in Chattanooga, TN and the State Conference will be October 1 – 4 in Kill Devil Hills, NC. More information will be provided on the Regional and State conferences at a later date.
The Regional Master Gardener Conference will be held June 8 – 12 in Chattanooga, TN and the State Conference will be October 1 – 4 in Kill Devil Hills, NC. More information will be provided on the Regional and State conferences at a later date.
Saturday, December 03, 2005
Propagation events
Mark your calendar for January 26 and 27. Dr. Blazich and his wife April will be here to provide an herb and a propagation seminar on those two days. We will sell tickets for both events.
Something from Charlie:
Don't forget to respond to the Christmas Party invitation. We need to know the count so we can plan properly. Want this one to be exceptionally well planned since it is Kathy's going away party.
More info on the joint efforts to provide programs for Supply Elementary School will be forthcoming.
For you who work the Hot Line, please Do Not put rubber bands around wet soil samples. It ruins the boxes and they will never dry. Thanks.
Thanks to everyone for a GREAT year, the best one in our 12 year history. Now a new year is starting. Hopefully we can do even better this year than last. Lots of exciting things are in the works. It looks like we may be able to get the inmates back so we can continue our projects.
Hope to see you all at the Christmas Party. Have an especially joyful holiday season and a Happy New year.
Again, thanks for all you do.
More info on the joint efforts to provide programs for Supply Elementary School will be forthcoming.
For you who work the Hot Line, please Do Not put rubber bands around wet soil samples. It ruins the boxes and they will never dry. Thanks.
Thanks to everyone for a GREAT year, the best one in our 12 year history. Now a new year is starting. Hopefully we can do even better this year than last. Lots of exciting things are in the works. It looks like we may be able to get the inmates back so we can continue our projects.
Hope to see you all at the Christmas Party. Have an especially joyful holiday season and a Happy New year.
Again, thanks for all you do.
A Tribute to Kathy
Kathy Walters has accepted a position as Administrative Assistant to Brunswick County Director of Public Utilities, starting Dec. 1. Kathy received her Associate Degree in Secretarial Science from Robeson Community College in May 1978 and was an Extension Secretary II for more than 27 years, 20 in Robeson County and the balance here in Brunswick County. She provided support to David Barkley (Ext. MG Program, Urban Horticulture, Pesticides, Aquatic Weed Mgmt., Beekeepers), Charlie Spencer (Ext. Master Gardeners), Billy Privette, Lindsay Hewett (4-H Youth Development), Al Hight (Livestock/Waste Mgmt, Forestry, Field Crops, Commercial Horticulture) and was the Extension Web Site Manager. She’s earned some kudos along the way: South Central District Secretary of the Year – 1992, Southeast District Secretary of the Year – 2001, Extension Director’s Award of Excellence for Acquisition & Utilization of Computer Skills/Technology – 1989, 1999 and 2000, and the Extension Director’s Award of Excellence for Special Leadership Skills – 1989.
I would like to take this time to personally thank Kathy for all her hard work here in Brunswick County. Kathy without a doubt has been one of the best secretaries that I have worked with. She has helped me become a better Extension Agent. Without her, our programs would not have flowed as smoothly as they have and much of our success in the master gardener program starts with Kathy. She is one of the first and main contacts that many of our master gardeners see and she has been very instrumental in assisting our volunteers with information to pass along to our clients. I am very proud of the way she has handled our clients with the care and sensitivity that all of us should strive for. She has been a blessing to me in the short three years that I have worked here. I wish her the best in her new job. We will all miss you. Thanks, Dave
And from Charlie: Kathy has provided the glue that has helped hold our group together. She ensures that our rosters are correct, edits and mails out our news articles, is always available to help out any Master Gardener, works closely on any of our projects and trips, even cleans the office for us, ensures our plaques and awards are that the right place at the right time, and too many other things to list. We will really miss her and her activities involving the Master Gardener Program. Best to you on your new job! Don't forget us!
I would like to take this time to personally thank Kathy for all her hard work here in Brunswick County. Kathy without a doubt has been one of the best secretaries that I have worked with. She has helped me become a better Extension Agent. Without her, our programs would not have flowed as smoothly as they have and much of our success in the master gardener program starts with Kathy. She is one of the first and main contacts that many of our master gardeners see and she has been very instrumental in assisting our volunteers with information to pass along to our clients. I am very proud of the way she has handled our clients with the care and sensitivity that all of us should strive for. She has been a blessing to me in the short three years that I have worked here. I wish her the best in her new job. We will all miss you. Thanks, Dave
And from Charlie: Kathy has provided the glue that has helped hold our group together. She ensures that our rosters are correct, edits and mails out our news articles, is always available to help out any Master Gardener, works closely on any of our projects and trips, even cleans the office for us, ensures our plaques and awards are that the right place at the right time, and too many other things to list. We will really miss her and her activities involving the Master Gardener Program. Best to you on your new job! Don't forget us!
And Congratulations to Shirley, too!!
We all know Shirley Waggoner-Eisenman – she’s one of the more active members of the MG program, and has been a major force behind the very successful Gardening by the Month. In recognition of all her contributions, Shirley has been granted the North Carolina Award for Outstanding Volunteer Service. Here’s a brief overview of her contributions.
She completed the Master Gardener course in May 1993, the first in Brunswick County. Since then she has logged more than 3,000 volunteer hours. She and MG Brenda Holmes established the filing system for all the MG publications. She chaired the first fund raiser, a 1996 calendar, which put the MGs in the black for the first time. She co-chaired the 2nd calendar printing in 2004, and served on the cookbook committee. She chaired a number of committees and projects, including the Gardening by the Month fund raiser, the first holiday social, the first budget committee, the landscaping of a house for Habitat for Humanity (with assistance from the Hort. Agent), and two Southeast District all-day seminars. She also has worked as editor of the newsletter, worked the Hotline, was President of BCMGVA for 2 years, helped coordinate landscaping of Hope Harbor – with Union Elem. School, which won for them 1st place in a statewide competition – taught MG classes at the extension building and on Bald Head Island, gardening courses at the community college, conducted seminars on various gardening subjects, and wrote articles that appear in 5 local papers. This is all just what she does here at Brunswick County! Let’s look elsewhere in the state.
She also has been involved with the North Carolina MGVA, as our Liaison/Delegate since 1994, and thus as a member of the Board of Directors. She has attended training sessions in Raleigh, all State Conferences since 1994, chaired the State Conference in Brunswick County in 2000 and has acted as liaison for the Board to host counties since 2001. She was President of NCMGVA for 2 years and is currently President-Elect. She has chaired the bylaws and nominating committees and served on a committee that developed guidelines and a timetable for the state conference.
Shirley served the maximum of 6 years with the Extension State Advisory Council (SAC), attending meetings in various part of the state 3 to 4 times a year. She represented the Southeast District at various District meeting and planning sessions, and met with state legislators. She attends State Extension Conferences in Raleigh, represented SAC at a conference to give SAC’s happy birthday to Extension. She chaired the Nominating Committee, attended a Leadership Forum, met regularly with the Dean and Executive Director for Agricultural Programs, Associate Dean and Director of Cooperative Extension, Associate Director and Director of County Operations, District Director, etc. and met with NC Senators and Representatives in Washington re the Federal budget and on “back home visits: re state budgets.
Gosh – does anyone wonder why Shirley won this award? Well done!
She completed the Master Gardener course in May 1993, the first in Brunswick County. Since then she has logged more than 3,000 volunteer hours. She and MG Brenda Holmes established the filing system for all the MG publications. She chaired the first fund raiser, a 1996 calendar, which put the MGs in the black for the first time. She co-chaired the 2nd calendar printing in 2004, and served on the cookbook committee. She chaired a number of committees and projects, including the Gardening by the Month fund raiser, the first holiday social, the first budget committee, the landscaping of a house for Habitat for Humanity (with assistance from the Hort. Agent), and two Southeast District all-day seminars. She also has worked as editor of the newsletter, worked the Hotline, was President of BCMGVA for 2 years, helped coordinate landscaping of Hope Harbor – with Union Elem. School, which won for them 1st place in a statewide competition – taught MG classes at the extension building and on Bald Head Island, gardening courses at the community college, conducted seminars on various gardening subjects, and wrote articles that appear in 5 local papers. This is all just what she does here at Brunswick County! Let’s look elsewhere in the state.
She also has been involved with the North Carolina MGVA, as our Liaison/Delegate since 1994, and thus as a member of the Board of Directors. She has attended training sessions in Raleigh, all State Conferences since 1994, chaired the State Conference in Brunswick County in 2000 and has acted as liaison for the Board to host counties since 2001. She was President of NCMGVA for 2 years and is currently President-Elect. She has chaired the bylaws and nominating committees and served on a committee that developed guidelines and a timetable for the state conference.
Shirley served the maximum of 6 years with the Extension State Advisory Council (SAC), attending meetings in various part of the state 3 to 4 times a year. She represented the Southeast District at various District meeting and planning sessions, and met with state legislators. She attends State Extension Conferences in Raleigh, represented SAC at a conference to give SAC’s happy birthday to Extension. She chaired the Nominating Committee, attended a Leadership Forum, met regularly with the Dean and Executive Director for Agricultural Programs, Associate Dean and Director of Cooperative Extension, Associate Director and Director of County Operations, District Director, etc. and met with NC Senators and Representatives in Washington re the Federal budget and on “back home visits: re state budgets.
Gosh – does anyone wonder why Shirley won this award? Well done!
Congratulations!
MG Ann Duke’s husband, Bill, won a Blue Ribbon for Peach Preserves at the NC State Fair October 14 - 23, 2005 in Raleigh. The award winning preserves were made with Freestone Caro-gem peaches. The recipe - which uses peaches, spices and sugar - was first used by Ann’s mother, Jennie Griggs Brock, in the 1930s and 1940s and later by Sue Brock, Ann’s sister-in-law.
The preserves were critiqued by Edwina Shaw, a noted gourmet cook in Raleigh.
These award-winning peach preserves are for sale at Cat on A Whisk in Southport.
The preserves were critiqued by Edwina Shaw, a noted gourmet cook in Raleigh.
These award-winning peach preserves are for sale at Cat on A Whisk in Southport.
Promote the 2006 Extension Master Gardener Class!
Encourage your friends and neighbors to apply for the 2006 Extension Master Gardener Class. Classes will meet 9 a.m. – 12 noon each week from February 8 to June 6, at the Cooperative Extension Service. Most classes will be on Wednesdays with a few Tuesday classes. The cost of the course is $110, which covers the cost of an Extension Master Gardener Volunteer Reference Notebook and other class materials and expenses. An application must be completed and returned to the Cooperative Extension Service by Monday, January 2, 2006, to apply for the course. Applications are available from our office.
December Message From Our President
While here visiting in New England, it is very plain to see that Winter is just around the corner. Most of the trees are bare, Thanksgiving preparations are in full force, and hints of Christmas are everywhere. Another year has gone by all too rapidly!!! MGVs have been evident everywhere throughout 2005, and plans and budgets are under preparation for the coming year, already under the full guidance of Richard Boland and omnipresent Shirley...with Charlie doing his imitation of several different elves.
I thank you all for your contributions to the 2005 projects and join you in looking forward to 2006.
I especially look forward to increasing our presence in and around the schools of Brunswick County as we help to spread the word to our young people about the benefits and joys of work with the soil and what it can produce. So, until I see you at one of those projects or maybe at the Holiday party, best wishes to you all for a joyeux holiday season and the coming Noel.
Signing out.......
Dan Sokoloski
I thank you all for your contributions to the 2005 projects and join you in looking forward to 2006.
I especially look forward to increasing our presence in and around the schools of Brunswick County as we help to spread the word to our young people about the benefits and joys of work with the soil and what it can produce. So, until I see you at one of those projects or maybe at the Holiday party, best wishes to you all for a joyeux holiday season and the coming Noel.
Signing out.......
Dan Sokoloski
Wednesday, November 02, 2005
A note from Linda Myers
Dear Brunswick County Master Gardeners:
Ron and I are moving to Tennessee. I want to tell you how much I will miss all of you. The opportunities I have had with the group have been outstanding and I am amazed at just how much I have learned. Your kindness will be long remembered. I wish you and the master gardener group the very best.
Much Love,
Linda Myers
Ron and I are moving to Tennessee. I want to tell you how much I will miss all of you. The opportunities I have had with the group have been outstanding and I am amazed at just how much I have learned. Your kindness will be long remembered. I wish you and the master gardener group the very best.
Much Love,
Linda Myers
November 17 Meeting Speaker
Dr. Wanda Sykes, Southeast District Extension Director, who will talk about the 13-county district which includes Brunswick County, its structure and operations and how it fits in with NCSU. This should be an informative session - come see where we fit into the overall picture!
Help Wanted
Due to limited assistance from outside sources, Hilton would like to form a Hardscape Work Team to perform various projects around the gardens and green house area. Hardscape involves building new projects and maintaining existing features such as garden deck, walkways, water features and irrigation systems. Some pending projects are building a foundation for the new tool building, completing the planned expansion of the deer fence at greenhouse, repositioning the sprinkler heads in the garden, planting and helping with maintenance of all areas.
If you have experience in carpentry, plumbing, electrical, landscaping, structural, or mechanical background, or maybe just a willingness to help, we could use your expertise.
Please notify Hilton Holcomb at 575-4943 or email hholcomb@atmc.net if you want to join this team.
If you have experience in carpentry, plumbing, electrical, landscaping, structural, or mechanical background, or maybe just a willingness to help, we could use your expertise.
Please notify Hilton Holcomb at 575-4943 or email hholcomb@atmc.net if you want to join this team.
2006 Dues Notice
It’s time to pay dues again.
Your $5 annual dues payment is due by January 1.
A form to use when you send in your payment is in the Documents section
Your $5 annual dues payment is due by January 1.
A form to use when you send in your payment is in the Documents section
Friday, September 30, 2005
October Message From The President
Here it is! “It’s recognition time again!” This is so much fun for me.. in part because it is so easy to do. Recognizing our fellow BCMGV can go on forever.
This time I am humbled by the work of our editors. There are four, for those of you who may not know. Becky Dus is our lead Newsletter editor. Nancy Einbinder and Cathie Rod help with the copying and mailing. Lisa Miner is the “website editor and webmaster”. These poor people have suffered under my less than precise harassment and one of the measures of their capability is that they have survived me! The changeover from old to new has had its trying times, but they have done it and the results are now really beginning to show. I hope you are all going to these sites:
www.bcmastergardener.org and
BCMGVA online herbarium. You can view reports of current and future activities and useful information for gardeners.
Please join me in offering thanks to your fellow volunteers and keep your thoughts, suggestions and content input coming to constantly improve the resulting product.
Happy gardening,
Dan
This time I am humbled by the work of our editors. There are four, for those of you who may not know. Becky Dus is our lead Newsletter editor. Nancy Einbinder and Cathie Rod help with the copying and mailing. Lisa Miner is the “website editor and webmaster”. These poor people have suffered under my less than precise harassment and one of the measures of their capability is that they have survived me! The changeover from old to new has had its trying times, but they have done it and the results are now really beginning to show. I hope you are all going to these sites:
www.bcmastergardener.org and
BCMGVA online herbarium. You can view reports of current and future activities and useful information for gardeners.
Please join me in offering thanks to your fellow volunteers and keep your thoughts, suggestions and content input coming to constantly improve the resulting product.
Happy gardening,
Dan
September Meeting Speaker
If you didn’t attend the September meeting you missed a most informative presentation by Erv Evans, State Coordinator for Master Gardeners. Erv was able to leave additional handouts which can be found in the MG office.
Erv informed us that Brunswick MGVA is UNIQUE for its Restitution program, Work in Schools, Creation of a Monthly Calendar Guide and use of prison labor.
When talking of the Master Gardener organization, Erv encouraged us to place emphasis on the manor of help and education we offer to the community such as: plant clinics, hot line coverage, programs in county schools and the work put into maintaining the Botanical Garden and the greenhouse.
Erv informed us that Brunswick MGVA is UNIQUE for its Restitution program, Work in Schools, Creation of a Monthly Calendar Guide and use of prison labor.
When talking of the Master Gardener organization, Erv encouraged us to place emphasis on the manor of help and education we offer to the community such as: plant clinics, hot line coverage, programs in county schools and the work put into maintaining the Botanical Garden and the greenhouse.
Nominating Committee News
Peggy Meinzer is joining Nancy Einbinder and Ann Duke to create the slate of officers for next year. If you wish to “throw your hat in the ring” please contact one of these members or see one of them at the October 27 general meeting. Postions to be voted (re-elected or newly elected) are: President/ Vice President and Treasurer. Also needed are two new nominating members –hopefully one seasoned Master Gardener. The slate will be presented for approval and voting at the general meeting on November 17.
Nancy Einbinder (253-3545) nancye714@yahoo.com
Ann Duke (454-0413) wduke1@ec.rr.com
Peggy Meinzer (842-4928) pmeinzer@lockwoodfolly.net
Nancy Einbinder (253-3545) nancye714@yahoo.com
Ann Duke (454-0413) wduke1@ec.rr.com
Peggy Meinzer (842-4928) pmeinzer@lockwoodfolly.net
Brunswick Residents Need Our Help
I realize that you have been hit with requests for donations to support many worthy causes, but there is one here in Brunswick County to support your less fortunate neighbors. The “Make a Difference Day” concludes on Saturday, October 22. The Volunteer Center is collecting clean coats and sweaters to dispense for the upcoming winter season. However, the most important donation needed is food for the various food pantries. Of course, money is always the easiest thing to give and allows the managers of the pantries to buy what is most needed. Checks may be bade payable to “The Volunteer Center”.
I will accept all donations here, in my office. Please help support the needy located here in Brunswick County.
Thanks, Charlie
I will accept all donations here, in my office. Please help support the needy located here in Brunswick County.
Thanks, Charlie
Guest Speakers for Future Meetings
October: Chuck Friedrich, a registered landscape architect and member of the American Society of Landscape Architects and the ASTM Green Roof Task Subcommittee, will talk to us about rooftop gardens, or “Green Roofs.”
November: Dr. Wanda Sykes is the Southeast District Extension Director. She will talk about the 13-county district that includes Brunswick County, its structure and operations and how it fits in with NCSU.
December: Remember the holiday party. Arlene Hubner will be forming committees and asking for volunteers at the October meeting.
If you have any suggestions for speakers who can extend our knowledge of gardening, or if you have ideas for topics for the General Meetings, let Shirley or Dave know.
Please remember that refreshments are enjoyed at all meetings. Take your turn and sign up to be host or hostess at one of the general meetings.
November: Dr. Wanda Sykes is the Southeast District Extension Director. She will talk about the 13-county district that includes Brunswick County, its structure and operations and how it fits in with NCSU.
December: Remember the holiday party. Arlene Hubner will be forming committees and asking for volunteers at the October meeting.
If you have any suggestions for speakers who can extend our knowledge of gardening, or if you have ideas for topics for the General Meetings, let Shirley or Dave know.
Please remember that refreshments are enjoyed at all meetings. Take your turn and sign up to be host or hostess at one of the general meetings.
News from Charlie
Indigo Farms will celebrate Heritage Day on Saturday, October 1. We will staff a booth, conduct a plant clinic and do presentations (topics to be determined). Helpers are needed for this day and set up on Friday, September 30 – sign up sheet in MG office.
Sign up to work at the Fall Plant Sale on Friday and Saturday, October 7th and 8th.
Life on the Farm – has been put on hold due to lack of funding from Brunswick County Schools. Because of gas prices, field trips have been greatly reduced. We will keep you updated on this situation.
A Special Farewell - For those of you who may not be aware, Al Hight is transferring to work in the extension program of Pender County. His duties will include livestock, commercial horticulture, forestry, crops and storm water. We wished him a farewell at the September meeting so I hope you had a chance to say good by. Al has always pitched in to help us in any way he could. His assistance to the Brunswick County Master Gardener program is too large to even try to measure.
We are fortunate he is still close so we can offer our help and support as he assumes his new position. We wish him continued success in all he does.
New Copier: To use the new copier an identification number is needed. The number to use is 2602 (the last digits of the MG phone #). This helps track departmental uses.
Be on the look out for a Hickory Horn Devil – a very colorful caterpillar. It reminds David of a Chinese dragon costume used in Chinese festivals. It is approximately 6-8 inches(?). If found, bring specimen to David Barkley’s office.
We will NOT be doing the ticket sales at the Cape Fear Fair on Oct. 30. We may volunteer to take entries on Tuesday or Wednesday evening prior to the fair or greet and welcome people to the fair on Sunday, October 30. Contact David if you can help.
Sign up to work at the Fall Plant Sale on Friday and Saturday, October 7th and 8th.
Life on the Farm – has been put on hold due to lack of funding from Brunswick County Schools. Because of gas prices, field trips have been greatly reduced. We will keep you updated on this situation.
A Special Farewell - For those of you who may not be aware, Al Hight is transferring to work in the extension program of Pender County. His duties will include livestock, commercial horticulture, forestry, crops and storm water. We wished him a farewell at the September meeting so I hope you had a chance to say good by. Al has always pitched in to help us in any way he could. His assistance to the Brunswick County Master Gardener program is too large to even try to measure.
We are fortunate he is still close so we can offer our help and support as he assumes his new position. We wish him continued success in all he does.
New Copier: To use the new copier an identification number is needed. The number to use is 2602 (the last digits of the MG phone #). This helps track departmental uses.
Be on the look out for a Hickory Horn Devil – a very colorful caterpillar. It reminds David of a Chinese dragon costume used in Chinese festivals. It is approximately 6-8 inches(?). If found, bring specimen to David Barkley’s office.
We will NOT be doing the ticket sales at the Cape Fear Fair on Oct. 30. We may volunteer to take entries on Tuesday or Wednesday evening prior to the fair or greet and welcome people to the fair on Sunday, October 30. Contact David if you can help.
Surplus Budget Approvals
As some of you may be aware, we’ve had a very healthy fiscal year and have determined where and how to apply the excess funds. The following projects or items have been approved: a riding mower, a building to house all BCMGVA equipment at the greenhouse complex, more gravel walk ways in the greenhouse area, carts (much needed during plant sales), additional raised beds, expansion of sprinkler system and an addition to the electronic fence. (The last item needs the help of prison labor which is presently on hold). Treasurer, Linda Lemieux will prepare an updated budget spread sheet for the next meeting OR the next news letter.
SO with additional tools and improvements to the greenhouse, make sure you see and use these items by volunteering to work the 1st Monday, 2nd Tuesday or 3rd Monday of every month. Hilton Holcomb usually emails a work list so everyone is clear on what needs to be accomplished.
There are occasions when volunteers are needed without much advanced notification. That was true the week of the September general meeting when David requested volunteers to clean up the front entrance and some of the adjacent garden area. He greatly appreciates all the help offered in this beautification project.
SO with additional tools and improvements to the greenhouse, make sure you see and use these items by volunteering to work the 1st Monday, 2nd Tuesday or 3rd Monday of every month. Hilton Holcomb usually emails a work list so everyone is clear on what needs to be accomplished.
There are occasions when volunteers are needed without much advanced notification. That was true the week of the September general meeting when David requested volunteers to clean up the front entrance and some of the adjacent garden area. He greatly appreciates all the help offered in this beautification project.
Monday, August 29, 2005
Speakers for September, October and November
Shirley Waggoner-Eisenman and David Barkley have scheduled speakers for the rest of the year and are working hard on the 2006 speaker roster. They have found some excellent speakers who will address topics that should be interesting to all of us.
September: Erv Evans, State Coordinator for Master Gardeners, NCSU, will talk to us regarding the legal aspects of Master Gardener activities and responsibilities. He wrote many of the chapters in the Master Gardener manual. MEETING DATE = SEPTEMBER 22.
October: Chuck Friedrich, a registered landscape architect and member of the American Society of Landscape Architects and the ASTM Green Roof Task Subcommittee, will talk to us about rooftop gardens, or “Green Roofs.” MEETING DATE = OCTOBER 27.
November: Dr. Wanda Sykes is the Southeast District Extension Director. She will talk about the 13-county district that includes Brunswick County, its structure and operations and how it fits in with NCSU. MEETING DATE = NOVEMBER 17.
If you have any suggestions for speakers who can extend our knowledge of gardening, or if you have ideas for topics for the General Meetings, let Shirley or Dave know.
September: Erv Evans, State Coordinator for Master Gardeners, NCSU, will talk to us regarding the legal aspects of Master Gardener activities and responsibilities. He wrote many of the chapters in the Master Gardener manual. MEETING DATE = SEPTEMBER 22.
October: Chuck Friedrich, a registered landscape architect and member of the American Society of Landscape Architects and the ASTM Green Roof Task Subcommittee, will talk to us about rooftop gardens, or “Green Roofs.” MEETING DATE = OCTOBER 27.
November: Dr. Wanda Sykes is the Southeast District Extension Director. She will talk about the 13-county district that includes Brunswick County, its structure and operations and how it fits in with NCSU. MEETING DATE = NOVEMBER 17.
If you have any suggestions for speakers who can extend our knowledge of gardening, or if you have ideas for topics for the General Meetings, let Shirley or Dave know.
New Website Postings
The September newsletter is available for downloading on the website at:
http://bcmastergardener.org/documents.html
Minutes of the August Executive Board and General Meetings have been posted on the website.
David Barkely's Gardening Tips for August and the Hotline History for September 2004 are also available.
http://bcmastergardener.org/documents.html
Minutes of the August Executive Board and General Meetings have been posted on the website.
David Barkely's Gardening Tips for August and the Hotline History for September 2004 are also available.
News from Charlie
Life on the Farm – will be scheduled during the last two weeks of October; dates are still being set. This is a fun activity. If you haven’t volunteered to help out before, let Charlie know if you can do it this time.
A Plant Clinic at Southport WalMart is scheduled for Saturday, September 17 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., with a seminar on fall gardening activities from 11 a.m. to 12 noon.
Indigo Farms will celebrate Heritage Day on Saturday, October 1. We will staff a booth, conduct a plant clinic and do presentations (topics to be determined).
Don't forget the Fall Plant Sale on Friday and Saturday, October 7th and 8th.
We have ordered 5 kinds of ornamental grasses for future plant sales. On August 29, 10 trays of 32 sprigs each will be shipped and should arrive that day or the next. They will need to be potted and tended so they will be ready for sale in the spring.
A Plant Clinic at Southport WalMart is scheduled for Saturday, September 17 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., with a seminar on fall gardening activities from 11 a.m. to 12 noon.
Indigo Farms will celebrate Heritage Day on Saturday, October 1. We will staff a booth, conduct a plant clinic and do presentations (topics to be determined).
Don't forget the Fall Plant Sale on Friday and Saturday, October 7th and 8th.
We have ordered 5 kinds of ornamental grasses for future plant sales. On August 29, 10 trays of 32 sprigs each will be shipped and should arrive that day or the next. They will need to be potted and tended so they will be ready for sale in the spring.
Monday, August 01, 2005
Minutes, Newsletter and Gardening Tips
The minutes from the July Executive Board Meeting and July General Meeting are now available on the website.
The August Newsletter is available for downloading from the website in pdf format.
Gardening Tips for August are also available on the website.
The August Newsletter is available for downloading from the website in pdf format.
Gardening Tips for August are also available on the website.
Other News
• Hilton Holcomb is doing well after his knee surgery.
• Debbie Snyder was very sick with septisemia and has been recovering.
• Let’s keep Nancy Lehto in our thoughts.
• Keep the Fall Plant Sale in mind; come out and give a hand, on October 7 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and October 8 from 9 a.m. until ??
• Charlie will be at the Southport WalMart on September 17 from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. and again in November (to be scheduled).
• We should be getting more involved with our schools – we have a contact person to work with and will begin talking to them about how we can help them and work with the kids.
• Some work has been completed on the Talking Tree Trail. The classroom area been completed by one Eagle Scout candidate, and another will be working on the entrance. We will begin our work when the cooler days of fall arrive.
(from the August newsletter)
• Debbie Snyder was very sick with septisemia and has been recovering.
• Let’s keep Nancy Lehto in our thoughts.
• Keep the Fall Plant Sale in mind; come out and give a hand, on October 7 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and October 8 from 9 a.m. until ??
• Charlie will be at the Southport WalMart on September 17 from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. and again in November (to be scheduled).
• We should be getting more involved with our schools – we have a contact person to work with and will begin talking to them about how we can help them and work with the kids.
• Some work has been completed on the Talking Tree Trail. The classroom area been completed by one Eagle Scout candidate, and another will be working on the entrance. We will begin our work when the cooler days of fall arrive.
(from the August newsletter)
State Meeting Dates
The 2005 conference will be in Goldsboro on Oct. 28 and 29. Look for your invitiation this summer and make your reservation early.
Shirley Waggoner-Eisenman
Speaking of Shirley…she will be participating in a “Crucial Conversations” workshop on August 4 and 5, along with 7 State Advisory Council members, 4 A & T Strategic Planning Council members, 4-H volunteers, ECA volunteers and other Master Gardeners. The curriculum is designed to help participants learn and practice skills to use when engaged in a crucial conversation.
(from the August newlsetter)
(from the August newlsetter)
Speakers for Upcoming Meetings
Shirley Waggoner-Eisenman and David Barkley have been scheduling speakers for our General Meetings. Dr. Blazich was a big hit – he was an excellent speaker with an obvious love of his topic and a wealth of knowledge that he enjoyed sharing with everyone.
These speakers are scheduled for the next several meetings; mark your calendar and come out to hear what they have to say.
August: Steve Bambara is an Extension Specialist for Entomology and also on the NCSU faculty in the Entomology Department; he will speak to us about insects – natch! - and will do a hands-on clinic with us. So come on out to the meeting and learn about all those pesky bugs and the helpful insects in your garden.
September: TBA – looking for a plant pathology specialist.
October: Erv Evans, State Coordinator for Master Gardeners, NCSU, will talk to us regarding the legal aspects of Master Gardener activities and responsibilities. He wrote many of the chapters in the Master Gardener manual.
November: Dr. Wanda Sykes is the Southeast District Extension Director. She will talk about the 13-county district that includes Brunswick County, its structure and operations and how it fits in with NCSU.
If you have any suggestions for speakers who can extend our knowledge of gardening, or if you have ideas for topics for the General Meetings, let Shirley or Dave know.
(from the August newlsetter)
These speakers are scheduled for the next several meetings; mark your calendar and come out to hear what they have to say.
August: Steve Bambara is an Extension Specialist for Entomology and also on the NCSU faculty in the Entomology Department; he will speak to us about insects – natch! - and will do a hands-on clinic with us. So come on out to the meeting and learn about all those pesky bugs and the helpful insects in your garden.
September: TBA – looking for a plant pathology specialist.
October: Erv Evans, State Coordinator for Master Gardeners, NCSU, will talk to us regarding the legal aspects of Master Gardener activities and responsibilities. He wrote many of the chapters in the Master Gardener manual.
November: Dr. Wanda Sykes is the Southeast District Extension Director. She will talk about the 13-county district that includes Brunswick County, its structure and operations and how it fits in with NCSU.
If you have any suggestions for speakers who can extend our knowledge of gardening, or if you have ideas for topics for the General Meetings, let Shirley or Dave know.
(from the August newlsetter)
News from Charlie
We have been asked to help out on “Make a Difference Day.” This is a county-wide event occurring on October 22. One of the events is a food drive for Brunswick Family Assistance Agency. For all those who wish to help out, please bring the food in during October and I will keep it in my office until the 22nd which I will give it to Jayne Mathews, Volunteer Coordinator for the county.
The seminar conducted by Dr. Frank Blazich was quite a success. We had 19 folks, other than Master Gardeners, who paid $5.00 each to attend the session. Our Master Gardeners who attended seemed to enjoy the hot dogs and hamburgers for lunch. Friday morning turned out to be a pleasant day with clouds so that our learning session on taking cuttings and sticking them in the propagation beds was comfortable. Dr. Blazich indicated that many of the plants in the garden would propagate better if we did the cuttings in the winter (hardwood cuttings). He is willing to come back in January and help us take cuttings at that time, on a date to be determined later after the start of his school. Dr. Blazich’s wife, April Blazich, Superintendent of the Horticulture Department at the North Carolina State Fair, will do a seminar on the same date on the subject of Herbs, Bulbs, etc. We get two for the price of one! In addition, she has invited us to attend the opening day of the State Fair this year [October 14]. She seems to be a great lady and wanted to know if we could come up a day early, which would involve an overnight stay, and she would have time to show us around. She also requested that we enter the competition by taking Horticultural items to be judged. I will discuss this with David Barkley when he gets back. We could also include a visit to Plants Delight Nursery if Tony Avent is agreeable. We will need to have some kind of an idea who would be interested in either a one-day trip just to the fair or in an overnight trip with additional side trips. Please call Chappy or me and let us know if you would be interested. We would need to plan so we would have to have some idea by the end of August. I will take the van so I can carry up to 12 folks including me.
The new class is busy working on the Hot Line and we are receiving lots of interesting calls. Be sure to sign up so all incoming calls can be taken care of in a timely manner. If you refer any calls to an Agent, please be sure Kathy gets a copy – she need to know as she has to answer the questions is the Agent is not here. Always try to keep her informed.
Don't forget that Steve Bambara will give a "hands-on" talk on insects, etc. Don't miss this one.
The fall season is almost upon us. Lots of things will be going on including the Fall Plant sale on October 7th and 8th.
Charlie
P.S. Thanks for the gift card--Lou and I will enjoy a great meal!
(from the August newsletter)
The seminar conducted by Dr. Frank Blazich was quite a success. We had 19 folks, other than Master Gardeners, who paid $5.00 each to attend the session. Our Master Gardeners who attended seemed to enjoy the hot dogs and hamburgers for lunch. Friday morning turned out to be a pleasant day with clouds so that our learning session on taking cuttings and sticking them in the propagation beds was comfortable. Dr. Blazich indicated that many of the plants in the garden would propagate better if we did the cuttings in the winter (hardwood cuttings). He is willing to come back in January and help us take cuttings at that time, on a date to be determined later after the start of his school. Dr. Blazich’s wife, April Blazich, Superintendent of the Horticulture Department at the North Carolina State Fair, will do a seminar on the same date on the subject of Herbs, Bulbs, etc. We get two for the price of one! In addition, she has invited us to attend the opening day of the State Fair this year [October 14]. She seems to be a great lady and wanted to know if we could come up a day early, which would involve an overnight stay, and she would have time to show us around. She also requested that we enter the competition by taking Horticultural items to be judged. I will discuss this with David Barkley when he gets back. We could also include a visit to Plants Delight Nursery if Tony Avent is agreeable. We will need to have some kind of an idea who would be interested in either a one-day trip just to the fair or in an overnight trip with additional side trips. Please call Chappy or me and let us know if you would be interested. We would need to plan so we would have to have some idea by the end of August. I will take the van so I can carry up to 12 folks including me.
The new class is busy working on the Hot Line and we are receiving lots of interesting calls. Be sure to sign up so all incoming calls can be taken care of in a timely manner. If you refer any calls to an Agent, please be sure Kathy gets a copy – she need to know as she has to answer the questions is the Agent is not here. Always try to keep her informed.
Don't forget that Steve Bambara will give a "hands-on" talk on insects, etc. Don't miss this one.
The fall season is almost upon us. Lots of things will be going on including the Fall Plant sale on October 7th and 8th.
Charlie
P.S. Thanks for the gift card--Lou and I will enjoy a great meal!
(from the August newsletter)
A Toast to Oliver
Judy Koehly's story about Oliver is both enjoyable and thought provoking, as intended. There is a little bit of the same theme as the old saw about “the trees and the forest." Even in our retirement there seem to be lots of trees to attend to and it is possible to forget to step back every now and then and view the entire forest. Oliver the cat saw it all, every element of the fauna and flora created for him and then others. So, my message is simple. In MGV we have lots of "trees" to attend to and you all do a marvelous job. Make sure to pause and take a look around you, and continue to add to that view. I am looking as I type at cannas, abelia, crapes, roses, elephant ear, zinnias, straw flowers, and tomatoes to be picked. And there is more... indeed just this thought has convinced me to order those reblooming bearded iris on p.121 of August Better Homes and Gardens. Boy, am I glad that you all reminded me to do that so they will be added to my view.... and thanks to Oliver as well.
Happy Planting!!!
Dan
(from the August newsletter)
Happy Planting!!!
Dan
(from the August newsletter)
Monday, July 11, 2005
Don’t Miss the July 28 General Meeting!
Dr. Frank Blazich will conduct a seminar on plant propagation following the monthly MG meeting, from 10 a.m. to noon. We will invite the public and snacks will be included. After the public has left, we will cook on our new grill and have lunch for the Master Gardeners.
Please call and let us know if you plan to attend.
Dr. Frank will work with us at the greenhouse Thursday afternoon and most of the day Friday for a hands-on workshop. He is one of the foremost experts on plant propagation. There is no charge to Master Gardeners. This should prove to be one of the highlights of the year. Don’t miss this.
Please call and let us know if you plan to attend.
Dr. Frank will work with us at the greenhouse Thursday afternoon and most of the day Friday for a hands-on workshop. He is one of the foremost experts on plant propagation. There is no charge to Master Gardeners. This should prove to be one of the highlights of the year. Don’t miss this.
Charlie says...
1. Call Charlie after July 10 if you are interested in a trip to the daylily farm to see daylily rebloomers. If there is enough interest, he will schedule a trip the following week. Let Charlie know by July 14.
2. We recently finished a couple of youth horticulture classes for Boiling Spring Lakes. Thanks for the help go to Patty Burns, Nancy Einbinder and Cheryll Shuford. Nancy and Cheryll conducted two different class groups.
3. We will start a new series of youth programs working with Lindsey Wescot, new 4-H Program Assistant. The first one is on July 21 from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. for 5-10 year olds, and the second one is on July 22 for 11-19 year olds. Subjects will be Farm Economics, Plant Propagation and Plant Usage. After classroom instruction and lunch – they will bring their own – we will go to the greenhouse for hands-on work. If you are interested in working with the kids, please contact Charlie.
2. We recently finished a couple of youth horticulture classes for Boiling Spring Lakes. Thanks for the help go to Patty Burns, Nancy Einbinder and Cheryll Shuford. Nancy and Cheryll conducted two different class groups.
3. We will start a new series of youth programs working with Lindsey Wescot, new 4-H Program Assistant. The first one is on July 21 from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. for 5-10 year olds, and the second one is on July 22 for 11-19 year olds. Subjects will be Farm Economics, Plant Propagation and Plant Usage. After classroom instruction and lunch – they will bring their own – we will go to the greenhouse for hands-on work. If you are interested in working with the kids, please contact Charlie.
Gardening advice
See David Barkley's columns from the July 2005 newsletter:
Gardening tips for July
Summer watering practices in the landscape
Gardening tips for July
Summer watering practices in the landscape
Notes from Kathy Walters
Please verify clients’ addresses for mailing information – mail is sometimes returned due to incomplete/inaccurate addresses – often because clients provide the address for the second home at the coast and it doesn’t have a mailbox. So, be sure to repeat the mailing address to the client when they request information – this should cut down on returned mail and allow clients to receive their information in a timely manner. Thanks for your efforts!
Periodically, Kathy organizes “bookmarks/favorites” on the MG computer. “E-Answers” is included and listed at the beginning of the index. This is a searchable website that provides reliable, research-based information on a variety of topics, a most useful resource, and it should be one of the first you use if you can’t locate info in the MG files.
The “homepage” on the MG computer is set for the “intranet” page of the NC Cooperative Extension Service rather than the “public” page. (The public page is listed as a “favorite.”) The intranet page of the Cooperative Extension Service provides more selections to assist Master Gardener Volunteers.
The Master Gardener News Columns, beginning with January 10, 2000, can be accessed through the Brunswick County Center of the NC Cooperative Extension Service website (http://www.ces.ncsu.edu/brunswick). In addition, printed copies are in a notebook (Master Gardener Judy Koehly organizes the columns by subject).
A special note for new Master Gardeners and a reminder to others: The Brunswick County Extension Master Gardener Office Manual (yellow label) compiled by Kathy was developed to assist Master Gardeners while they staff the Hot Line. The notebook contains a listing of staff and staff member responsibilities, web page information, association bylaws/membership, logo, telephone system and computer usage guidelines, and sections on plant disease and insect clinic, soil testing, nematode assay, solution analyses, waste analyses, diagnostic soil test, and plant tissue analyses with fees, appropriate forms to be used, analyses overviews, etc., for each of these. Be sure to browse through the notebook when you’re in the Master Gardener office.
Periodically, Kathy organizes “bookmarks/favorites” on the MG computer. “E-Answers” is included and listed at the beginning of the index. This is a searchable website that provides reliable, research-based information on a variety of topics, a most useful resource, and it should be one of the first you use if you can’t locate info in the MG files.
The “homepage” on the MG computer is set for the “intranet” page of the NC Cooperative Extension Service rather than the “public” page. (The public page is listed as a “favorite.”) The intranet page of the Cooperative Extension Service provides more selections to assist Master Gardener Volunteers.
The Master Gardener News Columns, beginning with January 10, 2000, can be accessed through the Brunswick County Center of the NC Cooperative Extension Service website (http://www.ces.ncsu.edu/brunswick). In addition, printed copies are in a notebook (Master Gardener Judy Koehly organizes the columns by subject).
A special note for new Master Gardeners and a reminder to others: The Brunswick County Extension Master Gardener Office Manual (yellow label) compiled by Kathy was developed to assist Master Gardeners while they staff the Hot Line. The notebook contains a listing of staff and staff member responsibilities, web page information, association bylaws/membership, logo, telephone system and computer usage guidelines, and sections on plant disease and insect clinic, soil testing, nematode assay, solution analyses, waste analyses, diagnostic soil test, and plant tissue analyses with fees, appropriate forms to be used, analyses overviews, etc., for each of these. Be sure to browse through the notebook when you’re in the Master Gardener office.
Help wanted
The Hot Line, Greenhouse and Botanical Garden need your help. The Greenhouse needs people to water, fertilize and repot plants on a regular basis. The Botanical Garden needs people once a month – the 1st or 3rd Monday or the 2nd Tuesday - to be sure it continues to be an area we can be proud of and others in the government complex - and the county - can enjoy. And the Hot Line always needs someone to man the phones and provide answers.
A message from the president: Recognition
This is the month where we honor all of your contributions. We have the recent class graduates, including those who took advanced classes. Then
there are those who have completed their second year requirements. Both the new class and the second year group represent the future of Master Gardener Volunteers.
Our history to date is dominated by those who have in many cases contributed thousands of hours over many years, led by the award winning effort of
Shirley Waggoner-Eisenman. The most telling moment of our recent banquet was when we presented Commissioner Sandifer with a "check" for $185,000 representing in-kind contributions to the county from Master Gardeners.
And with all of this we expect even more. Our base is still the hot line, the backbone of our volunteer efforts. With an ever growing greenhouse operation, a continually expanding Memorial Garden, lectures and help sessions throughout the county, and another new class next year, the opportunities for gardeners of all preferences abound. And, next year we
expect to complete the Talking Tree Trail, and expand our work with youth throughout the county.
So, in recognizing the many accomplishments of the past we also recognize the potential of the future. Congratulations to you all, for what you have
done, and for what you will do in the future.
there are those who have completed their second year requirements. Both the new class and the second year group represent the future of Master Gardener Volunteers.
Our history to date is dominated by those who have in many cases contributed thousands of hours over many years, led by the award winning effort of
Shirley Waggoner-Eisenman. The most telling moment of our recent banquet was when we presented Commissioner Sandifer with a "check" for $185,000 representing in-kind contributions to the county from Master Gardeners.
And with all of this we expect even more. Our base is still the hot line, the backbone of our volunteer efforts. With an ever growing greenhouse operation, a continually expanding Memorial Garden, lectures and help sessions throughout the county, and another new class next year, the opportunities for gardeners of all preferences abound. And, next year we
expect to complete the Talking Tree Trail, and expand our work with youth throughout the county.
So, in recognizing the many accomplishments of the past we also recognize the potential of the future. Congratulations to you all, for what you have
done, and for what you will do in the future.
Thursday, March 17, 2005
International Foods Group
Do you like Italian food? If so, consider joining the International Foods group on Saturday, April 23 at the County Complex for a meal featuring Italian recipes. See Susan Morgan or Charlie if you are interested, select a recipe to prepare and join the meal. If cooking for the ladies, be sure to save your receipts so you can be reimbursed for your costs. Call Maria Veselinovich at 579-1624 for details.
Brookgreen Gardens Trip
By popular demand we are going back to Brookgreen Gardens for the beautiful spring display of dogwoods and azaleas (as don’t forget about the delicious she-crab soup)! The date is Friday, April 8. The van will be leaving the Cooperative Extension parking lot at 8:00 AM and will make a pick up at McDonalds at the intersection of Routes 17 and 904 at 8:30 AM. If you are interested, notify Chappy Jones at 575-0599 or chappy@xaranda.net by Monday, April 4. Or sign up at a Master Gardener meeting.
Also we are planning an overnight trip to Richmond, VA to visit the Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens and the beautiful Maymont Plantation. This trip will be in early May – more details later.
Please let Chappy know of your interest in this trip, as above.
Also we are planning an overnight trip to Richmond, VA to visit the Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens and the beautiful Maymont Plantation. This trip will be in early May – more details later.
Please let Chappy know of your interest in this trip, as above.
Hotline History
In March 2004, there were 186 calls to the Hotline and requests for information from the Garden Show. The breakdown of these calls is as follows:
General: 54. We had 22 requests for Newcomer Packets. 12 questions concerned soil sample kits, their results and fertilizers.
Lawns: 51. The majority of the calls were for information on planting and maintaining centipede. 16 were on how to control weeds.
Trees: 31. We had 8 calls on fruit tree problems, 7 on pruning trees and the rest covered a wide range of tree problems.
Shrubs: 26. There were 5 calls about Azaleas and 5 on Camellias. The rest were varied and included pruning and general information about shrubs.
Pests: 19. The pests were numerous and varied. Moles, mole crickets and wasps were the major problems in March.
Vegetables: 5. The calls were for strawberry and grape growing information.
When you work on the Hotline, be sure to write down as much information as possible about the problems and their solutions on the Hotline forms.
General: 54. We had 22 requests for Newcomer Packets. 12 questions concerned soil sample kits, their results and fertilizers.
Lawns: 51. The majority of the calls were for information on planting and maintaining centipede. 16 were on how to control weeds.
Trees: 31. We had 8 calls on fruit tree problems, 7 on pruning trees and the rest covered a wide range of tree problems.
Shrubs: 26. There were 5 calls about Azaleas and 5 on Camellias. The rest were varied and included pruning and general information about shrubs.
Pests: 19. The pests were numerous and varied. Moles, mole crickets and wasps were the major problems in March.
Vegetables: 5. The calls were for strawberry and grape growing information.
When you work on the Hotline, be sure to write down as much information as possible about the problems and their solutions on the Hotline forms.
Gardening tips for April
• Prepare new flower beds now for this spring. Summer annuals and bulbs perform much better and for longer periods if they are planted in well prepared beds. Till, incorporate organic matter, lime and fertilize.
• Spring is the next best time after the fall season to plant shrubs, trees, and other ornamental plants. Remember to select good quality plants that are recommended for your area.
• After the spring flowering bulbs show off, gardeners need to make an application of 8 8 8. After the petals fade and fall off, remove flower organs with scissors or hand pruners, and allow the foliage to die a natural death. If you plant bulbs for only one season, then you can remove the entire plant once the petals fade.
• Gardeners need to define the edges of the plant borders. Adding mulch is also a good idea. To re-edge take a flat blade shovel and trench out about 3 inches deep and 6 inches wide all around the beds. Re mulch, letting the trench be the border. This fresh, crisp line will accentuate the grass and the bed.
• Seed is the least expensive component of gardening, so it makes good sense to buy the best quality seed you can obtain. A quick reference guide (Extension publication AG 12) lists a number of vegetable crops to plant now.
• Lawn Care: Still too early to fertilize. Applications of fertilizer would be better in May except for Centipedegrass which requires a one-time fertilization in June only. Continue to mow, rake, reduce thatch buildup, and water as needed.
• Prune berry producing plants such as holly, nandina and pyracantha. Prune spring flowering plants such as azaleas after they bloom. Thin cool season vegetables and protect sensitive warm season vegetables from frost or cold. Renew mulch around plantings if you haven't done so already. Coastal area houseplants can be brought outdoors later this month.
• A good general fertilizer recommendation is to apply 2 to 4 pounds of ammoniated 8/8/8 or 10/10/10 to landscape plants around April 15th. Still too early to apply fertilizer to warm season grasses.
• Stonecrops or sedums are popular additions to many gardens. They are one of the first perennials to show signs of life in the spring and they give a spectacular show in the fall. It is often cited as one of the top ten carefree perennials for the garden. Be sure to locate it in full sun areas with fertile soil. It will perform without any other attention. As it spreads, it is easily propagated for additional plantings.
• Towards the latter part of the month is the time to plant many of your warm seasoned vegetable crops like tomatoes and peppers. Plan to plant now to have a variety of fresh vegetables from your garden this summer.
• Spring is the next best time after the fall season to plant shrubs, trees, and other ornamental plants. Remember to select good quality plants that are recommended for your area.
• After the spring flowering bulbs show off, gardeners need to make an application of 8 8 8. After the petals fade and fall off, remove flower organs with scissors or hand pruners, and allow the foliage to die a natural death. If you plant bulbs for only one season, then you can remove the entire plant once the petals fade.
• Gardeners need to define the edges of the plant borders. Adding mulch is also a good idea. To re-edge take a flat blade shovel and trench out about 3 inches deep and 6 inches wide all around the beds. Re mulch, letting the trench be the border. This fresh, crisp line will accentuate the grass and the bed.
• Seed is the least expensive component of gardening, so it makes good sense to buy the best quality seed you can obtain. A quick reference guide (Extension publication AG 12) lists a number of vegetable crops to plant now.
• Lawn Care: Still too early to fertilize. Applications of fertilizer would be better in May except for Centipedegrass which requires a one-time fertilization in June only. Continue to mow, rake, reduce thatch buildup, and water as needed.
• Prune berry producing plants such as holly, nandina and pyracantha. Prune spring flowering plants such as azaleas after they bloom. Thin cool season vegetables and protect sensitive warm season vegetables from frost or cold. Renew mulch around plantings if you haven't done so already. Coastal area houseplants can be brought outdoors later this month.
• A good general fertilizer recommendation is to apply 2 to 4 pounds of ammoniated 8/8/8 or 10/10/10 to landscape plants around April 15th. Still too early to apply fertilizer to warm season grasses.
• Stonecrops or sedums are popular additions to many gardens. They are one of the first perennials to show signs of life in the spring and they give a spectacular show in the fall. It is often cited as one of the top ten carefree perennials for the garden. Be sure to locate it in full sun areas with fertile soil. It will perform without any other attention. As it spreads, it is easily propagated for additional plantings.
• Towards the latter part of the month is the time to plant many of your warm seasoned vegetable crops like tomatoes and peppers. Plan to plant now to have a variety of fresh vegetables from your garden this summer.
Coming up:
March 23 - Leland Library 2 to 4 pm - Charlie's topic will be "Tune up for Spring" with a plant clinic to follow.
April 14 to 16 - Plant sale at the Extension Center.
May 13 - All-Day Seminar
May 15 - Oak Island Beautification Club Garden Tour, starting at the Parks & Recreation building on 30th Street, from 1 to 5 PM. There will also be a Plant Clinic at the Parks & Recreation building. (May 22 = the rain date.)
May 20, 26 & 27 - Life on the Farm at Indigo Farms.
May 26 to 28 - Plant sale at the Extension Center.
Do we need volunteers for these events? Sure!
Why not sign up to help out with :Life on the Farm? the Plant Sales? the greenhouse? maintaining the garden areas? staffing the hotline? We need your participation to get things done.
Thanks!!
April 14 to 16 - Plant sale at the Extension Center.
May 13 - All-Day Seminar
May 15 - Oak Island Beautification Club Garden Tour, starting at the Parks & Recreation building on 30th Street, from 1 to 5 PM. There will also be a Plant Clinic at the Parks & Recreation building. (May 22 = the rain date.)
May 20, 26 & 27 - Life on the Farm at Indigo Farms.
May 26 to 28 - Plant sale at the Extension Center.
Do we need volunteers for these events? Sure!
Why not sign up to help out with :Life on the Farm? the Plant Sales? the greenhouse? maintaining the garden areas? staffing the hotline? We need your participation to get things done.
Thanks!!
Working with Special Education Students
On March 23, from 10 AM to Noon, Special Education students from Shallotte Middle School will work on propagating plants with Ash in the greenhouse. Ash will also be working with another group of Special Education students in a 4H group led by Sarah Bellamy.
Speaker Announcement
The speaker at the March 24 General Meeting will be Bill Howell. He is a Camellia specialist.
Newsletter Message from the President
The Grapefruit League is alive with all the sounds of spring. AT LAST, we “SAWKS” fans do not have to carry a burden into the season (yet). With these happy thoughts in mind I turn to communication. This is a subject that is a challenge to every entity and individual that ever lived, and we are no exception. My philosophy is simply that there can't be too much. I am willing to try every means possible to have communication at all directions throughout BCMGVA. So, while you have heard a lot about my thoughts, please give me yours. Call me, write me, email me (dssoko@hotmail.com) or send smoke signals. I would especially like to talk to those I haven't heard from recently. And, while I am on the subject, please unblock me from your spam blocker, especially Earthlink users, as I am getting all e-mails returned to me. Check this issue for upcoming activities and COMMUNICATE !!!
Cheers!! Dan
Cheers!! Dan
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