Fundy Gardeners

February's Guest Speaker Jude Carson-Community Garden Project

2012-01-20T15:57:00.001-04:00

Jude Carson is a retired writer and keen gardener.

While she was writing, gardening was one of her main subjects. It was also during that time that she and other interested people conceived the idea of the Greater Saint John Community Garden. She'll tell us about the beginning days and the status of the Garden today, still thriving in its 13th year, and bring photos to show its progress.

What is the Community Garden Project The Greater Saint John Area Community Garden (G.S.J.C.G.) is a volunteer project working with the Leisure Services Department of the City of Saint John. It was established to provide an opportunity for citizens to have a place to garden. The Community Garden is located on the former site of the Rockwood Elementary School.

Revamping Old Gardens-Duncan Kelbaugh

2011-12-28T21:39:00.001-04:00

January 4th Meeting.-Revamping Old Gardens

Duncan Kelbaugh graduated UNB Forestry in 1976. He started Brunswick Nurseries in Quispamsis , NB that year, which has developed into a successful Garden Centre/Landscape/Nursery business employing 20 during the busy season.Duncan makes regular gardening appearances on Rogers Television in Saint John , writes a Gardening Column in the Saint John Telegraph Journal, and frequently guest lectures.He designs borders with gentle, sweeping curves, planted in a variety of trees, shrubs, perennials, and annuals to give year-round colour and interest. Ponds are a favourite of his, usually designed to look like they belong as part of the natural setting. A long standing member of Fundy Gardeners.

Seasons Greetings

2011-12-16T08:24:00.000-04:00

Tony Rickett - Dunham's Wharf Vineyard -Nov's Guest Speaker

2011-10-24T20:25:00.000-03:00

Tony Rickett has been developing Dunham's Wharf Vineyard for seven years located in Gorham's Bluff on the Kingston Pennsula. With five acres of land where 3,000 grape vines grow in rows. Rickett has spent seven years planting a variety of grape vines on his property and tending to them until they are ready to pick, crush and turn into wine he says tastes "absolutely fabulous.Grapes, some white, some purple, and some shades in between, drip in bunches off the vines and provide a lunch for the hungry birds that visit the property. A loud bird sounds in the background and Rickett explains that it is a sound-machine used to scare off the vultures. His love of fine wine inspired him to grow wine grapes - a challenge he says has been tackled by few, if any, on the Kingston Peninsula. "I hope people get encouraged to say it can be done and try it," Rickett said. He explained that the climate on the peninsula teeters on the edge of being suitable to grow wine grapes. With the large amounts of rainfall, he said this summer has not been great for the crop. But the way his property gradually slopes towards the river helps fend off frost for one to two weeks longer than other areas of the peninsula. Seven years ago he planted his first vines and has grown the crop steadily each year. He said vines take about five years to produce grapes. Each of the five acres of vines on his property produces one to two tonnes of grapes, half of which he shared with the raccoons and birds in the area. The grapes he grew last year were used to make about 100 bottles of wine. Rickett is not licensed to sell the wine and he makes no money off his efforts. It is a project he says he does because he loves it.Two years ago Rickett decided to take on a new project - growing hops. He said hops grow on vines and produce bunches of small cones that hang off the plants that wrap around stakes on the edges of his property. He said it grew about six inches a day - so fast he could watch it. "When you cut it (the cone) open it looks like yellow traffic paint," Rickett said. "It is what gives beer the aroma it has"They are used to flavour beer and the ultimate test for a brew master is to use fresh hops to make a beer." Rickett said he passed the hops he grew this year on to brew master Wendy Papadopoulos. She used them to make a beer called Indian Beach Nut Brown Ale that is being sold at the Big Tide Brewing Company in Saint John.

Wreath Making Nov 15,2011

2011-10-05T19:38:00.002-03:00

REMINDER – Fundy Gardeners Greenery Workshop will take place this Tuesday, November 15th from 6:00 to 9:00 PM at the Rothesay Arena –upstairs meeting room. The focus will be on making a wreath, however if you choose you can also create a seasonal centerpiece. The workshop will be led by Fundy Gardener Chris Crowley who will supply wreath forms, wire pallets and lots of greenery. All you have to bring is:

 pruners (if you have some)

 ribbon -2 to 3 inches wide

 decorations such as pine cones, rose hips, bells etc. that you might want to use

 container if you’re making a centerpiece

 Optional is - skin-so-soft to take off the sticky greenery residue.

If you haven’t yet registered it’s not too late - the class can accommodate 20, and there are a few spots remaining. If interested please call Pat McGill at 849-4353 ASAP. Workshop cost: $10.00/pp

Oct's Guest Speaker Dave Product Pack -Kredal's Hampton

2011-09-27T07:01:00.001-03:00

WHAT IS DAVE’S PRODUCE PACKS?: We are six university students who share a passion for sustainable, local farming. Under Dave’s guidance, the team will plant, weed and harvest the largest variety of vegetables possible. No chemicals,

pesticides, insecticides, herbicides or chemical fertilizer will be used. Each week, beginning in mid-June, they deliver a pack of veggies, artisan bread and a dozen of free-run eggs to a pickup point in your area. Our season lasts from the second or third week of June until a week or two after the first hard frost, usually the second or third week of October.
MORE THAN VEGETABLES: If available, we will always try to provide seasonal berries such as strawberries, raspberries and blueberries. We understand that our packs include a lot of vegetables, so as added variety, we also want to start occasionally including other SFL approved LOCAL food products such as cheeses, meats, fish, preserves and more. For example, one week could include a pack of Bruce’s SFL sausages, which are so popular or a bottle of homemade jam, which we would make. Of course, with these products we will have a selection and/or a choice, as well as an option for vegetarians and vegans.

September Meeting

2011-08-07T18:46:00.000-03:00

FUNDY GARDENER’S MEMBERS NIGHT

“Show and Tell”

Bring something from your garden that you would like to” show and tell” about for 2-3 minutes.
“People’s Choice”

3 categories

1.Miniatures Six inches or under, including container

2. "Harvest Happening”

3.“Anything Goes”

Prizes will be certificates from Fundy Gardeners

This is meant to be a FUN night for sharing your garden high and low lights

Please have exhibits here by 6:45 p.m. People will vote before the meeting and during the break, with votes being tabulated during the “show and tell”. Certificates will be handed out as soon as the votes are tabulated.

FOOD

If you have something yummy from your garden you would like to share (jams, jellies, etc.) please bring it !!

August's Speaker 2011

2011-08-01T21:59:00.001-03:00

This month guest speaker is Jeff Morton speaking on Alternatives to the Traditional Lawn.

Garden Tour Photo's and Location of July 27th tour

2011-07-27T08:58:00.005-03:00

This Weds July 27th is a the the home of
Joan Van Wart,1608 Rte 845,Clifton Royal Kingston Peninsula

Grace & George Venkatarangam a Garden with a Great Veiw

Debra Lindsay a Garden nestled on the shore of the Kennebecasis River

Gwen Belyea 's Garden a large garden with ponds and pathway a true delight.

Brunswick Nurseries

2011-07-14T08:08:00.000-03:00

Fundy Gardeners send their condolences to Duncan Kelbaugh & Betty Pugh on the passing of Peggy Kelbaugh on Sunday, July 10th, 2011 Duncan’s Mom was in her 96th year and led a full life expressing herself through her art. Her memorial service will be held from the Kennebecasis Community Funeral Home, 152 Pettingill Road, Quispamsis, on Thursday, July 14th, 2011, at 4:00 PM.

The obituary of a very talanted lady.

Canning Daylilies

2011-07-10T09:41:00.003-03:00

The Fundy Gardeners over the years have had some great speakers who have taken the time to pass on their knowledge and love of gardening. Two speakers were Wayne Storrie and Wayne Ward owners of Canning Daylilies known as Big Wayne and Little Wayne throughout the gardening world. Fundy Gardeners were fortunate to have visited their Gardens and have them as guest speakers. Many members now have Canning Day lilies in their own Gardens. The Club members where saddened on the news that Wayne Storrie had past on and would like to express our condolences to their family.

Wayne's Storrie's Obituary and message from follow gardeners.

Web Site

Garden Tour June 29 and Guest Speaker July 6th

2011-06-27T09:28:00.000-03:00

Satomi pink flowering Dogwood Merv Cormier's
Garden.

Garden Tour this Weds June 29th
Grace & George Venkatarangam
325 Model Farm Rd.5th Driveway Past Brunswick Nursery’s on the riverside.

Guest Speaker July 6th 2011

Bob Osborne owner of Corn Hill Nursery Ltd., located in Corn Hill, N.B. .

Weds June 15th Garden Tour

2011-06-13T11:24:00.001-03:00

This week's Garden tour June 15th is at the home of Peter & Lynn Kinsella (Honeysuckle Edge)

1954 Rothesay Rd. Rothesay - Near the

old Colweell's Store in old Renforth 849-3706

June's Guest Speaker

2011-05-30T13:17:00.000-03:00

Della Day -Dayhaven Farms -Growing and Using Herbs

Della started her business 4 years ago at her farm in Charlotte County. Although she has a full-time job, herbs are her passion. Her primary focus is on food products although she also produces bath products, sachets and other gift items. Dayhaven Farms produces organically grown, naturally dried herbs.

Della will talk to us about growing herbs, making herbal foods (taste testing at the break), companion planting and more! She will have a wide variety of products available for sale – something for everyone.

Perennial Sale May 2011

2011-05-06T22:10:00.002-03:00

Jan Wilshaw’s , 20 Douglas Drive, Quispamsis
(off Model Farm Rd at Meenan’s Cove).
Saturday May 21st from 9am to 3pm

Sunday May 22th from noon-4pm
For more information please call 849 6401
or e-mail jan.wilshaw@gardener.com

Hosta Sale

Peter Kinsella is finally splitting some of his specialty hostas in support of his trip to the American Hosta Society Convention in Marlborough Mass. ( Really to make room for more plants) They will available for sale at their open garden on June 16^th or by appointment or
chance. Peter address is 1954 Rothesay Road, Rothesay, NB Phone 849-3706

May's Guest Speaker

2011-04-30T21:44:00.001-03:00

This month's guest speaker is George Scott of Scott's Nursery Ltd. who have been growing quality plants and serving the New Brunswick and surrounding areas for over 80 years.They have always taken pride in the amount of plant selection at and quality of plant material at the nursery.

http://www.scottsnursery.nb.ca/

Mystery Migration: Secrets of the Black Scoter

2011-04-01T15:04:00.002-03:00

" Mystery Migration: Secrets of the Black Scoter”. As shown by Jim WIilson ed it at the January meeting as part of his presentation on wildlife of the Bay of Fundy. Members of the who ordered copies and they will be avaible at the upcoming meeting plus a few extras in case others want one. The video has a version in English and another in French, both on the one copy. The cost of the video is $20.00 and cash or cheques are fine. Cheques should be payable to the Saint John Naturalists’ Club. 100% of the proceeds from sales will go directly toward the ongoing work of the Point Lepreau Bird Observatory.You would be welcome to encourage people to pass it on to a friend after they’re finished with it.

Botanical Garden Tour April 6 Meeting

2011-03-25T20:49:00.005-03:00

Fundy Gardeners own Jane Barry will be taking the members on a tour of at least five different Botanical Gardens, Victoria, Denver, Phoenix, San Miguel, Mexico and Coastal Maine. This slideshow promises to be a great trip. Coastal Maine Garden's is the location of the next Fundy Gardens Road trip. This slideshow promises to be a great trip.

Coastal Maine Garden's is the location of the next Fundy Gardens Road trip.

AUCTION ALERT!

There will be an auction of three interesting items at Fundy Gardeners’ monthly meeting on April 6th. We have a beautiful ceramic hummingbird feeder, saffron bulbs and a gift basket (retail value approximately $50). So bring you wallet and enjoy the fun.

HOW TO MAKE BETTER PICTURES OF YOUR OWN AND OTHER GARDENS -Freeman Patterson

2011-02-25T10:57:00.006-04:00

Renowned professional photographer, author and avid gardener, Freeman Patterson will be speaking to our Fundy Gardener membership about garden designs and composition. This presentation will be valuable to gardeners, photographers and painters alike.

Two presentations are planned 5:30 and 8:00 Thursday, April 7th at K.V. Select Funeral Home. Registration is required for attendance. Limited seats available sign up early to avoid disappointment. For more information or to sign up for presentation check our Fundy Gardner’s blog by March 15th, 2011.

Please note is a members only event

March Meeting

2011-02-25T10:48:00.000-04:00

This months guest speaker is Fundy Gardeners very own Merv Cormier. Speaking on the Birds in My Garden.Merv is a very talanted birder and photographer.

Seed Sale

The Oxalis will be $1.00 for both bulbs and plants (they are hatchlings). The Jade Plant will be $5.00.
Iinformation sheets will be at the meeting

Good Luck Shamrock

Oxalis deppei: Iron Cross Oxalis

Iron Cross or False Shamrock, unlike many types of oxalis, is not invasive. It was introduced to European gardening in Victorian times. The cultivar name is derived from the maroon cross formed at the center of the four bright green-rimmed velvety leaves. Throughout summer and into early autumn it has big bright pink flowers.

Even if it never flowered the foliage is so gorgeous it belongs in the garden. That it also flowers for quite a long time just adds to its excellence. The flowers are almost crimson they are so darkly pink.

Lift in the fall.

Height: 6-8 inches
Colour: Rose Pink
Light: Sun

Crassula ovata: Jade Plant

Commonly known as jade plant, friendship tree, lucky plant or Money Plant, Crassula ovata is a succulent plant with small pink or white flowers. Normally a house plant, it can be planted outside and cuttings can be taken in the fall to bring inside and grow for next year.

Jades are evergreen plants with thick branches and smooth, rounded, fleshy leaves that grow in opposing pairs along the branches. Leaves are a rich jade green; some varieties may develop a red tinge on the edges of leaves when exposed to high levels of sunlight.
Height: Small shrub
Colour: Pink or white flowers
Light: Sun to light shade
Bloom Time: Usually summer

The leaning tower of butterflies: Mass of Monarchs in Mexico makes the heart flutter with joy

2011-02-17T08:45:00.000-04:00

By Daily Mail Reporte

Colony numbers double a year after storm devastated population

Their numbers were devastated a year ago when severe storms hit their colonies.
But now the Monarch butterfly has made a spectacular comeback having more than DOUBLED in size this winter.
Despite the growth, however, the migrating insect remains under threat.
Millions of butterflies make a 2,000-mile journey each year from Canada to winter in central Mexico's warmer weather but the size of that migration can vary wildly.

Link to news site http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-1357164/Reborn-The-Monarch-butterfly-makes-comeback-Mexico-year-storms-devastated-colonies.html

Stone Hammer Geo Park

2011-01-28T08:48:00.000-04:00

Stonehammer Park

From towering rock formations and sea caves along the
Bay of Fundy to the Reversing Falls and fossil-laden cliffs,
the southern coast of New Brunswick reveals a billion year geological story. And nobody tells that story better than our very own Dr. Randy Miller, P.Geo., who spearheaded the effort to have Stonehammer named North America’s first Global Geopark.

Dr. Miller is also an adjunct professor in the Department of Geology at the
University of New Brunswick and the recipient of the 2010 Distinguished
Scientist Award ‘Gesner Medal’ from the Atlantic Geoscience Society.
His tireless work in exploring, documenting and promoting Stonehammer
Geopark’s significance was an influencing factor in it being named North
America’s first Global Geopark in October 2010.
Dr. Miller’s presentation will discuss:
• What it takes to become part of the Global Geoparks Network
• The vibrant geological history of southern New Brunswick
• The unique features of Stone

Awards and a Big Thank-You

2011-01-07T20:09:00.001-04:00

Fundy Gardeners President Jane LeBlanc (left) presents Dick Chiswell the Presidents award on behalf of the out going President Bob Perry. The award was given to Dick for his work and voluntarism within the club. The painting is of Dick's famous vegetable garden by artist Nancy Hart (right)

The Fundy Gardeners wish to thank Bob Perry for his work in the past two years as President.

Jim Wilson January's Speaker

2010-12-30T09:19:00.000-04:00

This month’s guest speaker at the Fundy Gardeners meeting is Jim Wilson whose enthusiasm on birding is always evident. But when he starts to talk about birding in New Brunswick his eyes just light up. “New Brunswick is like the eye of the needle,” says Jim, “so much gets funneled in here because of its biodiversity, weather patterns and the jet stream.” Still, if New Brunswick in general is special for Jim, the Bay of Fundy is the jewel in the crown.

“There is so much diversity in the bay” Jim explains. “Grand Manan and the nearby islands have more rare birds than anywhere else. It’s a crossroads.” In fact, Jim and his long-time friend, Cecil Johnston, even discovered a Siberian Stonechat on Grand Manan - the first official sighting in North America. Quite a trip for a small bird - quite a lot of excitement for two keen birders.

Jim’s not one to keep his enthusiasm or his knowledge to himself either, and with more than 200 books on birds and a lifetime of experience, that’s a lot of knowledge. As a board member of Nature NB, the provincial umbrella organization for 12 nature clubs scattered around the province, he has given many talks and leads outings whenever he can. “I’ve mentored a lot of people,” says Jim. “I love to show someone a new bird for the first time. It’s a simple childish delight and it’s free. Nothing beats it.”

Merry Christmas

2010-12-19T08:44:00.001-04:00

Happy Holiday's To All

Fundy Gardeners Christmas Party

2010-11-19T19:47:00.001-04:00

FUNDY GARDENERS ANNUAL CHRISTMAS PARTY DEC 1,2010

Sea Belles Click to view info
OUR LADY OF PERPETUAL HELP CHURCH, GONDOLA PT RD AT CHURCH ST.

PLEASE NOTE THE ENTRANCE FOR THE RECEPTION AREA IS THE LOWER LEVEL AT THE BACK OF THE CHURCH.THE GUESTS COMING FOR THE CONCERT ONLY WILL ENTER THE FRONT MAIN LEVEL.

*12 PM TO 1 :30 PM VOLUNTEERS SET UP THE TABLES AND CHAIRS. DECORATIONS FOR THE ROOM ARE WELCOME.

PEOPLE ARE ENCOURAGED TO BRING CENTRE PIECES FOR THE TABLES WHICH CAN BE EXCHANGED IF YOU WISH.

SUPPER SERVED AT 6:30 SHARPE.

BUSINESS MEETING AFTER THE DINNER.

8 TO 9PM SEA BELLS CONCERT IN THE SANCTUARY UP STAIRS. You are welcome to invite friends,relatives to attend the concert.

*9pm VOLUNTEERS TO CLEAN AND RETURN THE RECEPTION AREA TO IT'S ORIGINAL STATE.

NOTE A FILM OF GARDENS (Florida, Ottawa, Alaska, and a bit of NB.)WILL BE SHOWING DURING THE DINNER HOUR THANKS TO BRIAN HUDSON.

SANTA WILL DISTRIBUTE DOOR PRIZES. PLEASE COME AND BRING YOUR SMILES

* VOLUNTEERS PLEASE CONTACT ELAINE HOOPER jevl@nbnet.nb.ca

Putting your garden to Bed

2010-10-07T07:34:00.000-03:00

At the October's meeting Fundy Gardeners Meeting members Dick Chiswell and Bob Perry explained how they put their garden to bed. Dick showed off his new parsnip digging tool and Bob displays his bumper crop of squash.

Fundy Gardeners 2011 Calendar

2010-09-22T19:57:00.000-03:00

AVAILABLE NOW!

2011 CALENDAR

$8.00

Photographs of the gardens offered for garden tours by our members in 2010.

Includes the winning photographs from the Fundy Gardeners’ 2010 Exhibition.

Includes photos by Fundy Gardener Freeman Patterson

Philip Savage Fundy Gardener Member

2010-09-16T06:30:00.000-03:00

Philip Savage of Quispamsis has started a business sculpting wood and making furniture from wood. His style is 'contemporary organic.' That's not much of a surprise given that this wood sculptor and furniture maker grew up on a flower farm on Darlings Island, picking up pieces of wood as a young boy and whittling them into shapes, and worked for many years as a landscape gardener.Today, when you go through his portfolio, you can see how all of his 26 years growing up on the farm, working with plants, and hiking, paddling and observing nature have influenced his work."I've been always exploring plants and growing things. It's so essential to woodworking - knowing where it came from and how it grows and the real intimate characteristics of wood. I was really interested in it as a gardener and still am."Savage recently turned from being a seasonal landscape gardener to making a living as a full-time wood carver and furniture maker. In the garage of his Chamberlain Road home, he chisels and sands wood - his favourite being ash and dark walnut - into sculptural or functional pieces whose shapes mimic nature's own shaping process.Seeds, as protective and powerful vessels capable of transformation, are found throughout his work. Carved maple pods hold dark-stained seeds, oversized seed shells carved from walnut and ash lay empty of their potential, and a trio of swimmers carved in birch resemble a stand of waving trees.

"I would call my style contemporary organic - the shapes that nature presents and the way the elements shape things, or the structure of plants and seeds, and the way they grow, occasionally throwing in some man-made angles to keep it grounded."Having some right angles or a flat top on a coffee table brings back that aspect that we recognize as human and comforting in some ways, but also let's us get closer to nature and the true forms that always existed before people started shaping everything."Savage began his relationship with wood when he was a 10-year-old boy growing up on the family farm called Straw Flower Ridge. Seeing his interest in carving, his parents bought him a few rudimentary tools and later enrolled him with the KV Carvers Club.

"I was like the only kid there. These guys were like retired, but they taught me a lot."In his teen years, he abandoned this interest, giving into the usual teenage "temptations, impatience and all that." But in his early 20s, he resumed carving - a way to fill the long winters unemployed as a landscape gardener."I had these winters to kill and I just started exploring it more as a sculptural medium."Last fall, he had his first exhibition at the Saint John Arts Centre."I got tonnes of positive feedback from people," he said, "so I decided to try this and give it a go and it's been going really well."He's recently completed a piece for the University of Dalhousie's medical school, and this past February, the Town of Quispamsis commissioned him to create gifts for the corporate sponsors of the Q-Plex - a commission that was a turning point for Savage's new business."That's when I thought I could make it viable," he said.While the business is still in its infancy, Savage is optimistic about its potential. In July, he toured across Ontario after showcasing his talent as a guest of the National Capital Commission on Canada Day.It was there that he realized there are fewer artists and craftspeople working in wood - afraid, he said, of not being able to compete with cheap furniture factories."There's a few people and they seem to be doing really well, but I got excited because I saw this niche of bringing wood back into people's homes and lives," he said. "I think there is great potential for it."
That's why he's looking to the future and his dream of a grove of trees. While he may expand into some of the other elemental materials - such as metal and stone - he wants to celebrate "the shape and unique qualities of wood both in sculpture and furniture design," he said.For that reason, he's considering moving to a more rural setting where he can grow his future forest, set up shop, use a chainsaw, and "make more noise without bothering the neighbours."Already, he's tending to an assortment of seedlings, which he wants to shape and train with curves and strengths."Then they could be worked into high-end sculptural furniture because not only were they shaped by tools but nature shaped them. So I'm pretty excited about that. But that will take 20 to 25 years," he said. "It's my long-term investment."

For more information, visit www.savagesculpture.com.

Reprinted from the Telegraph -Journal. Erin Dwyer writes the Developments column for the Telegraph-Journal. It appears Tuesdays. To make a suggestion about a new business in the Kennebecasis Valley, email her at dwyer.erin@telegraphjournal.com.

Enhanced Garden on Grove Ave.

2010-08-24T07:33:00.001-03:00

On the July 18 weds evening, Garden Tour guests visited the home of Larry and Gwen Henry. Paths through out the woods lead you to a different little garden around each corner. Larry’s wood working turnings showed up at different spots through out the garden.

A Nice Little Garden in the Country

2010-08-11T21:07:00.000-03:00

Weds August 11th Tour was at the home of Annette Lamb. Members toured the garden followed by a

social on the porch.

Jan & Peter Wilshaw's Garden Tour July 28,2010

2010-08-07T08:03:00.001-03:00

Another great garden. The deer fence is doing it's job.
allowing a spectacular show of lilies. Hummingbirds
flying around the bee balm.
To view a more pictures slide show Slide Show from Brian Hudson.

Garden Full of Friends (Weds Garden Tour)

2010-07-23T07:11:00.001-03:00

On July 22,2010 Sharon and I (Steve) hosted one of the Weds
evening tours.Members enjoyed the miracles of a deer free yard
where hosta's grow without the fear of being eaten,Lilies with
actual blooms on them. Their lots of different garden ornaments
for them to see from church doors to bowling balls . Garden give
aways and helping a fellow gardener to clean out some of his
extra treasures.

Photo's By Brian Hudson

A Country Garden on Grove Ave.

2010-07-15T07:10:00.000-03:00

This weeks Garden Tour is at the home of Elaine Hopper and Jack Brien of 35 Grove Ave ,Rothesay was another successful tour. Thanks for Elaine and Jack for opening up there garden for us to share.

Romero House Garden Tour - Sunday July 18th

2010-07-09T11:26:00.000-03:00

Sunday July 18th from 1-4 43 Gondola Point Road
This is a rain or shine event and donations of non perishable food items will be
appreciated. Anyone wishing to make a cash donation over $5 will receive a tax receipt if they provide their mailing address.

Kingsbrae Garden Tour June 19-2010

2010-07-04T07:47:00.000-03:00

Members of the Fundy Gardeners toured the Kingsbrae Gardens and the Algonquin Hotel in St. Andrews New Brunswick. The tour was conducted by Don and Elaine Brown who do a great job on the tours. A beautiful summer day with a good lunch and like any tour members purchased plants to take home.

Hollow man carved by Fundy Gardeners member Phillip Savage from a 130 old spruce tree.

Wollemi Pine an ancient tree dating back to the days of the dinosaurs, the Wollemi pine tree is one of the oldest plants on Earth—and one of the rarest. Less than 100 adult trees are known to exist in the wild, placing the Wollemi pine tree at the heart of one of the world’s most extensive conservation campaigns.

Helen and Anthony McLaughin Garden Tour

2010-07-01T08:08:00.000-03:00

The June 23 Garden Tour was held at the home of Helen and Anthony McLaughin in Bloomfield a property tucked in between two cemeteries with a covered bridge and the church as neighbours . A true country garden with birds,bees,butterflies,chickens and flowers. Helen has a couple of beehives which help in the pollination of her garden.

Peter and Lynn Kinsella's Garden Tour

2010-06-20T10:43:00.002-03:00

Peter and Lynn's Garden Tour on Weds evening June 16th The sign says it all . Peter claims there are at least four hundred and fifty Hosta's depending on the day. Peter's handy work bottom photo left plus the famous flower photo right.

Garden Tours June 9th

2010-06-16T22:00:00.001-03:00

This seasons tours have stared off at Else Holler's home with Bob Osborne from Cornhill Nursery gaving a guided tour of the garden.

Freeman Pattersons Woodland And Bog Garden Tour

2010-06-06T08:28:00.003-03:00

On May 22 and on the 26 the members of the Fundy Gardeners were treated to a tour of the Woodland and Bog Gardens of follow club member Freeman Patterson. Both tours were well attended. the groups were split into two. One group went with Joanne ( the real boss ) touring the Woodland Gardens and while the other group went with Freeman touring the Bog garden switching half way through. The weather for the Saturday tour was great and a some plants were almost ready to bloom and others were in their spring glory.

The second tour day on Weds was a grayish over cast morning. The Azaleas and Rhododendrons started to bloom with blue poppy arriving just for our visit.

Saturday's Group
Weds group below

Fundy Region Solid Waste Commission (June's Guest Speaker)

2010-05-30T06:54:00.000-03:00

At the June meeting of the Fundy Gardeners m you can Touch ,Feel.Smell and even if your crazy enough to taste the municipal compost. Our guest speaker is Brenda MacCallum will speak about how the program is working, how the meat, bones and weeds are processed, and why composting is such a vital recycling program from the waste management point of view. The Fundy Region Solid Waste Commission processes 10,000 tonnes of food and yard waste through the Green Cart Compost Program.

Wow ! This months door prize is a Gift certificate for 1 ½ yards of Crane Mountain Compost.That's about a pick up truck load your only responsible to get it home. So if your a member bring your membership card or join the club.

Birding in New Brunswick

2010-05-20T21:39:00.001-03:00

Drum Roll Please !! Fundy Gardeners own Merv Cormier

Roger Burrows Author with more than 200 colourful photographs of different species by Merv J. Cormier
New Brunswick is uniquely situated smack dab on the migratory path from Greenland and the Canadian North to South America, New Brunswick boasts a broad range of habitats, making it an ideal destination for birds and birders alike. From waders on the shore to raptors in the air, from garden-dwelling songbirds to rare migratory species, Birding in New Brunswick has it all.

Organized by geographic area, this book provides a thorough catalogue of the species that may be seen at each birding hotspot. For each destination, Roger Burrows provides information on how to get there and a comprehensive list of the birds that may be seen in spring-summer, fall, or winter.

Birding in New Brunswick is a birders’ dream. It’s sure to find a permanent place on bookshelves and in backpacks.
Goose Lane Publisher

June 3, 2010: Birding in New Brunswick Public Lecture Tour
12:00 pm at Saint John Free Public Library (Main Branch), 1 Market Square, Saint John, NB

St. Joseph’s Hospital - Leisure Wellness Garden

2010-05-12T22:25:00.000-03:00

The Leisure Wellness Garden for St. Joseph’s Hospital is a dream come true. A project of the Saint John Dragon Boat Festival and St. Joseph’s Hospital Foundation, funds raised through the 2009 Dragon Boat Festival were dedicated to transform a portion of our inner-city property into a Wellness Garden and a Sanctuary for our patients and their families.

St. Joseph’s Hospital has the largest Geriatric Medicine inpatient program in Atlantic Canada. Sadly, for many of our patients they are limited to the confines of their rooms or hospital ward. The Wellness Garden will provide a much needed sanctuary, an environment to help patients get back to good health. Sometimes just stepping outside can make a big difference for many of our patients. A breath of fresh air can bring forth smiles, renewed hope and energy.

As our garden nears completion we are seeking the community’s assistance in providing perennials for the garden. If members have any extra perennials that are in need of a good home please consider a donation to the Wellness Garden. Help us provide a breath of fresh air and sunshine to all who call on St. Joseph’s.

Our wish list includes: Geranium , Day Lilies , Japanese Iris April Magic,Cone Flower Echinacea Purpurea,Bleeding Heart,Creeping Plox Red Wings,Aster,Shasta Daisy,Rudbeckia,Astible Astible,Hosta Haleyon,Bee Balm, Pink Beauty Potentilla,Stella Dora,Violets Royal Rob,Daffodils,

The planting day for the perennials will be Friday, June 4, 2010.

If you are able to help or donate plants please call the foundation office at 632-5595.

Click on image for larger view

John Armstong: Dahlia and Gladiola Expert Dahlia Culture And Cultivation

2010-05-02T08:15:00.001-03:00

Seeing we are on the issue of Deer are dahlias low on the list of favorite foods?
We will find out at this months Fundy Gardeners meeting Weds May 5,2010.

Also check out the The American Dahlia Society on web.

One way to solve Deer Issues

2010-04-16T20:47:00.001-03:00

Spring has arrived along with the munchers, chewing up the crocuses, tulips and just about anything green. My Asparagus is up, it's time to put up the electric fence again and cross my fingers that it will keep out the deer.

If you have a problem with deer in your garden or running into your car.

Please be at the next Quispamsis town meeting Tuesday April 20th. 7pm to back Anne Downy as she presents a letter to the town council regarding the deer issue. Click here to see Anne's letter.

Janet Colwell

Dealing with Deer in your garden

2010-04-16T20:24:00.001-03:00

The phenomenon of more deer in the urban landscape than in the country.

- DNR mentions that winters for the last few years have been favourable for deer survival

- Other contributing factors: Hunting bans in municipalities. Better dog control than in the ‘old days’ by both owners and municipalities. Lack of large predators or any predators in urban areas

- Dunc’s observation/theory: Deer are adapting like crows, raccoons, and squirrels to the urban environment, losing fear of human contact, and learning to eat foods from gardens not in their traditional diet.

The Effect of Deer on Garden Plants: Grazing varies remarkably from area to area, depending on whether the deer are urban(aggressive) or rural(seldom graze on ornamentals), how many deer in the local herd, how much ‘other food’ (such as lush lawns and meadows) there is near your garden to keep them well fed, how bad and long the winter is (snow depth and cold temps etc), In Millidgeville, Gondola Point, Darlings Island, Neck Rd., etc, the grazing can be severe. One indicator is native cedar. Mild deer leave it alone. Hungry/aggressive deer eat it to the twig.

Grazing bulbs is very bad, as you lose the flower, and much of the energy storage for next year. Avoid tulips! Grazing perennials is usually more aggravating than truly harmful, although young plants can be ruined or killed. Grazing shrubs can be lethal or permanently damaging, depending on the age/size of the shrub, the number/thoroughness of grazer(s), and the number of return trips to graze. Repeated grazing of evergreens can set them back permanently, and although they are alive, they will never look truly attractive. In a vegetable garden, they can make a real mess, loving greens, peas, corn, beans, and later in the summer pulling up carrots and biting into squash, etc. A fence is a must for vegetable gardens.

Coping & Prevention:

Fencing: To me the number one best way to keep deer off your gardens is with a 7’ barrier fence of heavy screening such as pagewire. A reasonably economical system is cedar poles 9’ long buried 2’ into the ground with 7’ of pagewire stapled to it. (Cedar- Kevin Saunders 647-1643) (page wire Coop Country Store by the Coop, Quispamsis 848-2349) I have actually made it through two summers with just 4’, not intentionally, but just the same!

Nylon netting on wood framing will work too, but they may rip through it if too thin. Chicken wire would do too, but may cost just as much as page wire.

Electric fence works well. Supplies for it are from the Coop country store too, maybe better to go up to Sussex to talk to them and look at options. Use at least three wires, to get raccoon and rabbit blockage too. Maintenance is key with electric- grass must be kept mowed and snipped to not touch wires, and to give good grounding. In dry weather, water under the wire for good grounding.

Taste deterrents: Pepper concoctions – don’t last too long. Go on line for recipes (eg deerrepellents.com)

-Chemical ones such as Tree Guard

Blood-based repellents, eg Plantskydd. –works well if applied about weekly during feeding times, less so in winter, but a few times. A heavy rain washes much of it off.

Motion based scaring/annoying machines: water spray that comes on when they approach- expensive and only cover a limited area Loud high-pitched noise to aggravate them away!

Miscellaneous: urine, dog hair, human hair, scented soap, garlic, etc Good Luck!!

Member and Guest Ideas
Freeman Patterson -PlantSkydd –Two good drying days are needed as well as two applications with amply drying time. or one Female (needs to stay around) German Shepard
Capt. Dick Steele-Shoot the buggers.

They are growing in numbers

Photos by Steve Nason

“Clean Fill Not Wanted - Pleasures of Gardening in a Bog”

2010-04-02T22:04:00.002-03:00

Member Freeman Patterson will be speaking on the topic “Clean Fill Not Wanted - Pleasures of Gardening in a Bog” 7:00 pm, Wednesday April 7th, 2010 during Fundy Gardeners regular monthly meeting.

Freeman’s other passion is gardening naturally. Freeman’s home in Shamper’s Bluff is an ecological reserve with a bog garden and a woodland gardens.

In the fields in front of this home he has planted hundreds of daffodils which signal spring each year. You can walk along the woodland trails or wander through the many paths that have been mowed throughout the fields of his property.

Freeman is a Professional-acclaimed Master Photographer. He uses rich colours and technical skills when photographing nature.

Freeman Patterson is also
author and co author of numerous photography books.

Hampton's Community Garden !

2010-03-26T18:41:00.000-03:00

Hampton now has a Community Garden !

‘How to plant a vegetable garden?’

2010-03-26T18:23:00.001-03:00

‘How to plant a vegetable garden?’

You are invited to hear Dick Chiswell, a well know local gardener and Fundy Gardener Member

-will give you some answers on planting and growing a vegetable garden

Saturday, April 24th 2:00 - 3:00pm.

At West Branch Library
Lancaster Mall

621 Fairville Blvd.

Saint John

Capt.. Richard (Dick) Steele

2010-03-16T08:19:00.003-03:00

A sad period in the gardening world hearing that Capt.. Richard (Dick) Steele passed away on March 14,2010 after a short illness. Dick was a premier breeder of rhododendrons and magnolias as well as a skilled plantsman, propagator.He was in his early 90s but looked and acted about 30 years younger.

Along with his daughter Diana Steele, , they operated the garden centre at Bayport Plant Farm in Bayport Nova Scotia (near Lunenburg). To visit the garden centre and listen his enthuasm about plants and his yearly expeditions to Labrador and Northern Newfoundland on plant hunting trips to was a real treat.

His door was always open to vistors (just call ahead) and would welcome you with a tour and a cup of tea

He was a guest speaker to the Fundy Garden club in October 2007 and delighted the members with his plant knowledge,wit and charm. One member questioned him on what to do with the deer. With a direct approach he told the member to shoot them.

Capt. Steele was a great man and he will be sorely missed

Touring the Kennedy-Steele Park in Rothesay Oct. 2007

Jodi DeLong of Canning, Nova Scotia, Canada

writes in her blog about the Capt.

"The Plant Does all the Work!" Remembering my friend... "

Remember Jodi she spoke to the club on container

plants Spillers,Thrillers and Fllers for containers.

Charlotte County Blooms

2010-03-07T20:20:00.002-04:00

Charlotte County Blooms
May 1,2010 9am-2 pm

The premiere season event kicking off the arrival of a new season.
The guest speakers presenting Master Gardeners

Marjorie Peronto of University of Maine

Deb Sheids -A graduate of the Master Gardening programn offered by the University of Maine Cooperative Extension.

Plus a great lunch.

Honeyberries

2010-02-24T21:02:00.000-04:00

A member was asking about Honeyberries aka Haskap

Haskap is an amazingly hardy, fast growing, high yielding, great tasting berry bush that is relatively new to North America. It is an edible honeysuckle that originates from Siberia and can be found in Russia, China, and Japan. It goes by the name ‘Honeyberries’, ‘Blue Honeysuckle’, and ‘Haskap’. Recently, it has been developed at the University of Saskatchewan by Dr. Bob Bors for commercial production.

What makes Haskap so remarkable?

Haskap has several features that make it stand out from among all other fruits.

#1. Hardiness

Coming from Siberia, it is extremely hardy. It can withstand winter temperatures of -47° Celsius. Not only that, but its open flowers can endure -7° Celsius. They are the earliest to fruit in the season, usually in mid to late June – even earlier than strawberries.

#2. Early & High Yield

One of the greatest thing about Haskap is that it doesn’t take seven years to start producing. My seedlings were planted in the spring of 2006 and I ate my first fruit in June 2007. In the studies at the University of Saskatchewan, they were yielding 1 kg (2.2 lbs.) per plant in their 3rd year and 4 kg per plant in their 6th year. The picture below is a three-year old plant in the test patch at the University of Saskatchewan.

#3. Unique Flavor

Haskap is unlike any other fruit you’ve tried. Some have compared it’s taste to blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, rhubarb, saskatoons, and black current. The flavor seems to vary with varieties. They are most often compared with blueberries, but without the seeds. The seeds are similar to that of kiwis, so you don’t even notice them. As for it’s uses, basically anything you would do with blueberries, you could also do with haskap – eat them fresh, in baking, as jams & jellies, frozen, or whatever else you may think of.

Where do find these plants? Phytocultures Ltd. of Pei is the licensed propagator of these plants in Eastern Canada and is developing 5 varieties for release in 2009.

I think the deer will like these.

Spring

2010-02-17T20:08:00.000-04:00

Spring is just around the corner. It's exactly March 21 or 31 days away.

These were popping up at a Fundy Gardeners house Helen Mclaughin's today Feb 17th.

“ Plants and Birth Control: did you know that plants are planning your Parenthood?"

2010-01-25T19:39:00.002-04:00

Can plants affect animal reproduction –YES! We shouldn’t be surprised as ancient cultures recognized, and used, a variety of plants to control their fertility – what we would now call “birth control”. What inside knowledge did these cultures have about plants that affect human fertility? How effective was it? How was that knowledge lost? To find out…join us Feb. 3rd Garden Club Meeting !

Warning: mature themes and plant sexual content. Viewer discretion advised.

Dr.Kate Frego did a great job very interesting and informative.Their maybe some members who will look at plants or birth control in a different light. Especially plants such as wild carrot, juniper berries and what goes into your salad bowl

Transplanting French Lace Lilac (Question Submitted )

2010-01-25T19:19:00.002-04:00

The Fundy Gardeners blog has received a question about Transplanting French Lace Lilac

How does one transplant a mature French Lace Lilac Tree with out killing it ,in light of ,one is not able to dig it out with a back hoe. Need to cut it back to be able to handle it . Can the roots be divided.

Transplanting a large shrub is really no different or more stressful to the shrub than when it was younger and smaller, provided the same relative-size undisturbed root-ball is successfully lifted. That's where it becomes more challenging for the digger who has to handle the larger, heavier plant. Heavily pruning back the top (30-50%) to match the much-reduced root mass will increase the chances of success greatly, as well as make the top a more manageable size. Then dig a trench at a radius of 18-24" from the trunk(s), cutting all roots encountered, 12" deep or more, until most roots are cut, then cut under the root ball as much as possible and pull and pry it out. 3 or 4 helpers would make it much easier. Doing the job before mid-May when little bud burst had yet happened will greatly increase the chances of survival, which should then be in the order of 80-90%. Quickly locate the shrub in its new hole, with manure and bonemeal worked in under and around the root ball, pack in soil and water well. Should be fine!

Duncan Kelbaugh Brunswick Nurseries Ltd.

SEEDY SUNDAY in St. Andrews

2010-01-20T21:41:00.000-04:00

7th Annual Seed Exchange

The days are getting longer, the sun is getting stronger....

It's time for SEEDY SUNDAY!

Come to the 7th annual Community Seed Exchange

Sunday, February 14th 2:00 to 4:00 p.m.

Anglican Church Hall, King Street,

St. Andrews

All are welcome. If you have seeds to share, or would like a few seeds (vegetables, flowers or herbs) from fellow gardeners, please join us.

You can also bring favourite seed catalogs, information about local seed and plant sources, photos of your garden, and seed-saving tips that you can share (in writing or just by telling us about them.)

Questions? Call 529-4982.

Seed starting 101 by Yvonne Cunnington

2010-01-19T19:34:00.001-04:00

Get a jump-start on the growing season with these easy tips

You might think growing from seed is a practice only for advanced gardeners, but it isn’t difficult to get the basics down.

Rule number one: Don’t sow too early or your plants will be leggy and overgrown long before you can transplant them into the garden.

In my experience, if the seed packet recommends sowing four to six weeks before the last frost date, it’s better to pick the four- rather than the six-week date. (To calculate the sowing date, count back from your region’s last frost date; for me in southern Ontario, that’s the third week of May.)

Choosing seeds

Annuals and vegetables are the easiest to grow. Perennials, however, are trickier because most need a period of cold to break dormancy and take a couple of seasons to reach flowering size.

Containers

Propagating kits (available at garden centres or hardware stores) include four or six cell packs, a tray to hold the packs and a plastic lid. If reusing containers,wash with soap, water and a little bleach, and make sure they have drainage holes. Newly sprouted seedlings may look alike, so label containers as you sow.

Sowing medium

Use fresh, sterile seed-starting mixture (available from garden centres). Moisten mixture about an hour before sowing; it shouldn’t besoggy, just as damp as a wrung-out sponge.

Follow directions

Seed packets contain information on timing, lighting requirements, sowing depth, and optimal germination and growing temperatures.

Keep moisture in

Lightly water freshly sown flats, then cover with plastic dome lid, or if reusing containers, place them inside a plastic zip-lock bag. At the first signs of germination, uncover or remove from plastic bag.

Watering

When the top of the soil looks dry, water carefully using a small watering can with a fine spray. Avoid overwatering: soggy soil and poor air circulation

can lead to damping off, a fungal disease that can kill baby plants. Prevention is best, but the fungicide No Damp can also help.

Light

A bright window works, but grow lights or cool fluorescent tubes are better. Keep seedlings about eight to 10 centimetres from light source to prevent plants from becoming too spindly. Plug lights into an automatic timer set for 16 hours on, eight hours off.

Fertilizer

When seedlings have two sets of true leaves (the first leaves are called cotyledons—or seed leaves—so wait for the true ones), start feeding once a week with a balanced (20-20-20), water-soluble fertilizer at half-strength, working up to full strength after a few weeks.

Resources

The Gardener’s A-Z Guide to Growing Flowers from Seed to Bloom by Eileen Powell, Storey Books, 528 pages, softcover, $31.50.

Posted in http://www.canadiangardening.com/
http://www.flower-gardening-made-easy.com/Seeds.html
http://countrygardenerblog.com/

Top 10 gardening trends by Mark Cullen

2010-01-01T09:17:00.000-04:00

Last week I promised that I would provide you with my list of the top ten trends in gardening for 2010 in Canada.
1. Canadians will be paying down their debt - to the soil.
As more and more Canadians realize that they cannot draw on the goodness of soil forever, they will be 'giving back' by adding generous layers of organic material including (you guessed it) COMPOST

2. From Garden to Fork. Inspired by the recent trend to eat food produced within 100 miles, Canadians will be growing more of their own food in their own yards and on balconies- Why? To control what is put on their food (i.e. no chemicals), convenience, money saving and honest to goodness wholesomeness.

3. Naturally. Canadian gardeners are discovering -in increasing numbers - the benefits of gardening organically or (at least) in the absence of chemicals. Or at the VERY least, the minimal use of chemicals. Even hardened garden-chemical-users are considering 'cutting down' on the use of them in the garden and yard.

4. Heritage Gardening. As more and more Canadians are prepared to pay a premium for 'heritage' or 'heirloom' tomatoes and other produce, they are also more interested in growing what their great grandparents grew... look for heritage tomato varieties at garden retailers this spring.

5. Water Conservation. Gardeners are acutely aware of water use and are naturally concerned about the limited availability of water in most regions of the country. Look for an increase in the use of rain barrels and other 'water saving' devices including low pressure water sprinklers and water conserving products like the new Water Wicks tea bags, which retain up to 400 times their weight in water, releasing H2O to the root zone of the plant as it is required. The result is a reduction of watering by up to 70%.

6. Bringing Nature Home. Gardeners are closely connected to the natural world and are designing their gardens in an effort to embrace the natural world around them rather than insulate themselves from it, as we did a generation ago with high hedges and large, fast growing trees and evergreens... as a result lawns will get smaller, native plants will gain in popularity and birding in all forms (including bird feeding) will continue to rise in popularity.

7. Gardeners as Community minded activists... Gardeners are seeing themselves more as a vital part of the community as a whole, with sensitivity to historic attributes of our towns and cities, public green spaces and the overall beauty of our communities. We will see horticultural societies and individual gardeners give time and resources to partnerships with Historic societies, conservation groups and a growing interest in Communities in Bloom.

8. Smaller is better. As house builders continue to build larger homes on smaller lots, the nature of gardening spaces will continue to 'intensify'. The popularity of dwarf conifers, small flowering trees and growing in containers will continue to grow.

9. Gardening as Therapy. As our population ages there is a growing appreciation for the therapeutic benefits of gardening... Improved cognitive skills, sharper minds, better memory, lower blood pressure, increased flexibility and overall better health result from the ACTIVITY of gardening, regardless of age.

10. Gardening for the NEXT generation and Gardening for Pets. The emerging generation of gardeners is integrating their kids and grand kids (and even their pets!) into the gardening experience. In an effort to reduce the growth of 'nature deficit disorder' the garden is providing the perfect opportunity to engage young people in Mother Nature's world, right in our own backyards.

Keep your knees dirty in 2010!!

Mark

http://www.markcullen.com/

Seasons Greetings

2009-12-11T14:25:00.000-04:00

The gift of love. The gift of peace. The gift of happiness. May all these be yours at Christmas

Composting 101

2009-11-16T17:28:00.000-04:00

With all the fall leaves and gardening material in the yard their maybe a few questions regarding composting.

http://www.finegardening.com/how-to/videos/easy-methods-for-best-compost.aspx?nterms=74866

http://www.nyccompost.org

Bob Osborne, Cornhill Nursery

2009-11-09T08:16:00.000-04:00

November's Guest Speaker was Bob Osborne, Cornhill Nursery
The Noble Vines of New Brunswick