The Town and Country Garden Club met on February 21, 2019 in the lovely home of Mrs. Dianne Luke with Mrs. Shirley Hawkins as co-hostess. Inspiration was given by Elaine Thompson which was entitled “Daffodils,” by William Wadsworth.
Mrs. Marie Shaw, President, called the meeting to order. Frances Ball called the roll and read the minutes which were approved. Dale Shumaker gave the Treasurer’s report. Mrs. Shaw made several announcements including the President’s Forum. She gave information on officers’ report. Also, the National Garden Club which will be held in Biloxi, MS on April 30 through May 2 at the famous Beau Rivage Resort Hotel. The planning committee is asking for donations to help defray convention expenses. Members voted to make a donation.
Elaine Thompson gave a report on Arbor Day which was on February 8 at Legion State Park. A Foster Holly was planted in honor of Mr. Tim Flake, park manager. Several members attended as well as members of Friends of the LSP. Mr. Giles presided over the program. Mr. Carrauba opened with prayer followed by his beautiful rendition of America which he sang acapella. Teressa Ellis is in charge of the “Pennies for Pines” fund. A donation was taken to be sent for this. A total of $68 is requested at a time. This is to replace trees which have been lost due to storms and fires. The reforestation is so important.
In unfinished business, Mrs. Shaw reported on the Trails project which is sponsored by the Federal Highway Grant Project. Mrs. Jean Carraway, Park Administrator. Dept. WLF&P is working with us on the Trails project. There are many details to be worked out. First, an appraisal will have to be made. This will determine the amount of money allowed. It was voted on to approve to continue to pursue this project. Mrs. Shaw appointed a nominating committee for the officers for 2019-2021. They are Debbie Moody, Chair., along with Sandra Cullwell and Teressa Ellis. They will bring a report in April.
The Southern Pines District meeting will be held on May 19 at Lake Tiak O Khata in Louisville. The Town and Country GC and the Louisville GC will host the meeting. Plans are underway for this. Mrs. Shaw explained plans for the “Fire Wise” project at LSP. Plans are underway to landscape the front of the Lodge. Guidelines must be followed in order to receive the grant such as type of plant material, mulch, fertilizer and placement. A simple design is needed.
Mrs. Shaw introduced Mr. Jim McAdory, Winston County MSU Extension agent. He gave a most interesting program on pruning, how to prune, when to prune, and pruning methods. He gave some interesting facts on zones which determine planting dates. We are in zone 7 nationally, but we are in zone 4 for planting Spring and Summer plantings. For instance, English peas, onions, cabbage, broccoli, and potatoes should be planted on February 13. He gave lots of information on tomatoes naming fertilizers to use ect. He gave some helpful handouts such as a Garden Tabloid, Pruning Landscape Plants and boxes in which soil can be collected from the garden and sent to MSU for testing. This can be done by bring the boxes to the Extension Office and they will send it to be tested. It was a most informative program. We are happy to have Jim as our County Agent as is commonly known.
Dale Shumaker brought the horticulture which was a specimen of lora pedelum. This is a beautiful shrub which is burgundy, with a silver under leaf. It has become a real popular shrub which is used in commercial and domestic landscapes. It comes in an average too tall as well as a dwarf. It has a beautiful pink cluster bloom. Shirley Hawkins brought a beautiful design made from camellias. Forsythia and quince in a tall glass vase.
The hostesses provided delicious refreshments. Door prizes were won by Debbie Moody, Sandra Culwell and Elaine Thompson. The next meeting will be held in the home of Debbie Moody in March.
Submitted by Frances Ball, Secretary.
