Gardeners, make a cup of tea and sit down with me for a few minutes. First of all, a great big "thank you" to Paula and Morley Maier who hosted the Yorkton and District Horticultural Society Windup at their farm recently. What a beautiful yard! I'm sure all of us went home inspired to try some exciting new plants or add those wonderful little touches that make the finishing touch in the garden! Paula and Morley's garden is truly a very special place and showcases not only the work of enthusiastic gardeners, but the love and imagination that turns an outdoor space into an extra living area to be used and enjoyed. Thank you again, Paula and Morley!
If any of you want a mini garden-getaway, you might like to take part in the Saskatchewan Horticultural Association bus trip, which happens July 18 and 19, 2014, and travels to the Weyburn, Estevan and Windthorst areas. Some of the sights included are the Shand Greenhouses, Roche Percee Provincial Historic Site, touring gardens in Estevan and Weyburn, a show with the Souris Valley Theatre Group, and having the opportunity to visit with other gardeners. Please note that you do not have to belong to the SHA to go on this trip. The cost includes the bus ride and hotel and some meals. For more information about this call Denise Mlazgar at 306-331-9181.
Remember, too, that the Yorkton In Bloom competition is coming up in July. This project focuses on the beautification of the city. For more information about the various categories and how to enter, call 306-786-1776. The Yorkton and District Horticultural Society works with the City on this great project, and the Yorkton In Bloom Yard and Garden Bus Tour takes place on Thursday, July 24. We'll chat about it more when the dates get closer.
If you're looking for a cheery, bright addition to your flowerbeds, consider Thrift! The two-dollar botanical name is armeria maritima; it is a rugged little perennial plant that doesn't need perfect conditions to do well. In fact, if you are planning a rock garden or xeriscaping, thrift should be one of your choices. It grows in a clump about twelve inches high, and sends up blooms of electric pink above the spiky green foliage (great for texture in the garden!). Thrift also comes in white, but the pink is stunning! It likes full sun, heat, is non-invasive, and is very drought tolerant. The only thing it really needs is good drainage. To keep it blooming profusely, deadhead it regularly.
Not only is it a nice accent plant, but it would make a good groundcover. I read that the deer do not favor this plant, a bonus for country gardeners. Another plus is that if you are planting on a slope, thrift would make an attractive anchor. And if your "garden" is a collection of pots on your deck or back step, guess what, thrift will enjoy that too! (But I would check if you should sink the plant into the ground for the winter, just so that it can make it for the following year).
It sounds like a winner for any garden, so if you're done planting for this year, keep it in mind for next year!
I'd just like to compliment the gardeners at Fisher Court in Yorkton for their beautiful plantings by the front door! How cheery and inviting it all looks-you've done a marvellous job! It's always inspiring to see how people add their personal touch to planting!
Have a great week, and on July 1, be sure to go outside, tour your yard, and give thanks for the beautiful country that we are blessed to call home.
