Prince Albert Garden Club News

-Linda Jaquet-

Nineteen enthusiastic members attended the July Garden Club meeting at new Chairperson, Michael Upton’s Prince Albert Garden Guest House.

Introducing his committee’s plans for the next few months, Michael said that they looked forward to an exciting annual garden club competition to be held later in the year than usual, when gardens were in full bloom. Plant of the month was the kalenchoe.

Michael demonstrated how to make one’s own cuttings, using plants that are waterwise and grow well in Prince Albert, with lots of useful, practical tips for both beginners and more experienced gardeners.

He noted, for example, that he had a high success rate and only used hormone powder on olive tree cuttings.

Michael’s demonstration generated a discussion where Garden Club members shared problem-solving ideas, know-ledge in identifying various plants, and information on nurseries in the area. Any uncertainty as to how to overcome a plant’s problem was met with the exhortation: “Give it compost!”

The meeting ended with a stroll through Michael’s charming, eclectic garden followed by his legendary scones and tea. Everyone agreed that this meeting had set a high standard for the remainder of the Garden Club year.

The Prince Albert Garden Club meets once a month and visitors and new members are most welcome. For further information, please phone the Club’s Secretary, Dawn Viljoen, on 023 5411 832.