“All the dirt you need to know . . . and a whole lot more!
Guy’s Greetings
And summer at last! We’ve waited a long time for fine weather, and we got it in spades for the 9th Annual Garden Tour. The gardens and their gardeners were terrific and much appreciated by the visitors. The party following the tour was also a great success with plenty of camaraderie, yummy food and drink. And the music was even free.
Many thanks for a job well done to Paula Murphy and her committee: Karen Ferb, Jo Miller, Judy Zuck, Ann Rubbo, Mary Ann Tchinnis, Georgia Dulmovits, Arlene Lamberti, and Susan Toplitz. Thanks also to the garden sitters: Pauline Carleton, Rosalie Coleman, Georgia and John Dulmovits, Arlene Lamberti, Ruth Szuminskyj, Jo Miller, Carol Tvelia, Ann Rubbo, John and Barbara Gustafson, Millie Zimmerman, Barbara Bestafka, and Mark Jeffers. And last but not least, our crew of generous gardeners: Brian and Stephanie Anderson, Gail and Chris Hohwald, Frank Quatrale, and our own Angelo and June Petruccelli and Rocco and Camille Ida.
I look forward to seeing everyone at the meeting at Sandra’s.
Enjoy your summer, Guy
Mark the Date
Tuesday, July 28, 2009, 6:00 PM, general meeting at the home and garden of club member Sandra Franco, 42 Bailey Avenue, Patchogue. Guy Vitale will be hosting the August meeting.
Garden Gazette Page 2
June Meeting in a Flash
Jo Miller introduced our host, Doug Steigerwald, proprietor of Long Island Flower Garden and Designscapes Landscaping on South Country Road, and a co-founder of our club. Doug helped to get the community garden started. Both he and Jo gave us a brief history of its beginnings. Another part of the reason for holding the meeting at this location was so that members could see the evergreen plantings, the remains of an old glass house entwined with wisteria, and the model conservatory room that are at the far end of the property that most people don’t know are there. http://www.liflowergarden.com/
The Plant and Yard Sale proceeds went to this year’s scholarship recipient Cady Bilski . She responded quickly with a nice thank you note.
We were all looking forward to the 9th Annual Garden Tour and party.
Garden Gazette Page 3
Serious Dirt from Richard Waldman
Irish famine disease hits N.Y. gardens
Bill Cary: wcary@lohud.com
Home gardeners need to be on the lookout for a highly destructive and infectious fungal disease, late blight, that's destroying tomato and potato plants across the state and much of the Northeast--the same disease that caused the Irish Potato Famine in the 1840s….Farmers are blaming the cool, wet June weather.
"This particular bout of late blight is definitely the worst I've ever seen," Algiere said. "And all the other farmers I've talked to are saying the same thing."
The fungus, Phytophthora infestans, is highly contagious because it spreads on airborne spores that can travel for miles.
"It's everywhere," said Dianne Olsen, horticultural educator for Cornell Cooperative Extension of Putnam, which has a plot in the community garden run by the county parks department. "All of our tomatoes have been lost: totally, completely gone. They die in a week - it's just horrible. Once the leaves turn yellow, they're goners.
"I've heard that those folks who bought tomato seedlings in big-box stores and those giant nurseries are having the biggest problems," she said yesterday. Earlier this month, Bonnie Plants, a plant wholesaler based in Alabama, recalled about $1 million worth of possibly infected tomato plants from the stores it supplies, which include Wal-Mart, Lowe's and The Home Depot. People who grew tomatoes from seed seem to have escaped late blight problems so far, Olsen said.
"Not every variety has been affected in the same way," Algiere said. Some of the older heirloom varieties have shown surprisingly strong resistance to late blight, while newer varieties that he expected to be tougher have gone under.
Late blight symptoms on tomato leaves, stems or fruits are fairly dramatic and easy to spot. Look for nickel- to quarter-sized lesions that are olive-green or brown and look wet. Leaf or lesion edges may appear yellowish. When the lesions dry out, they may appear lime green or beige. The edge of the water-soaked lesion will be covered with white fungal growth that contains the contagious spores.
In potatoes, the disease destroys both the leaves and the edible roots, or tubers, of the potato plant. The Irish Potato Famine was the worst in Europe in the 19th century. About 1 million people died of related diseases and up to 1.5 million more left Ireland.
Petunias are closely related to tomatoes and potatoes and may be infected, too, with similar symptoms. It's important for homeowners with infected plants to destroy them quickly to avoid affecting commercial growers. The best way to stop the spread of late blight would be two weeks of dry weather with temperatures above 80 degrees, Algiere said. "Every time it rains or we have humidity above 50 percent, the incubation process happens quickly."
Those with infected plants can take steps in August to avoid problems next year, Olsen said.
"Cover the area with black plastic and let it bake in the August sun," she said. "This will help kill some of the organisms in the soil that were left over from the tomato plant roots.
"Next year, plant something else other than tomatoes or potatoes in the spot where you grew this year," she said.
Garden Gazette Page 4
Member’s Page
The Evolution of the Garden Gnome
By: Kelly Laffey [Thanks to Susan Toplitz via aol.com]
While gnomes have long adorned the lawns of avid gardeners, their reputation is more kitschy than cool. Can they have a resurgence? The traditional garden gnome is depicted as a tiny, bearded man who dons a colorful hat. According to folklore, gnomes come alive to tend to the gardens when no one is watching. For people who lack a green thumb, gnomes ensure the fertility of the land and vitality of the vegetation. Various sources attribute the first crafted garden gnomes, made by hand from terracotta clay, to ceramicists in Gräfenroda, Germany in the early-1800s. Gnomes spread quickly through Europe. Sir Charles Isham first brought the figurines to Great Britain in the 1840s. One of his original 21, affectionately called Lampy, still guards the gardens of the Isham estate in Northamptonshire. In 1997, Lampy was insured for 1 million pounds (about $1.6 million). Supply shortages during World War II briefly halted gnome production. When manufacturing resumed after the war, gnomes were more frequently made from plastic and resin than the traditional terracotta. More recently, some garden enthusiasts have snubbed the kitschy plastic creatures. The Royal Horticultural Society banned them years ago from the elite Chelsea Garden Show, though one high-profile RHS member managed to sneak her gnome in earlier this year. Although gnomes are still welcome in some gardens, their presence is further compromised by tongue-in-cheek organizations that pledge to free the gnomes from their punishing fates. According to the "Chief Liberator" of one such group, Free the Gnomes, who answered questions by email, "We find that peaceful negotiation is not always effective when facing pure unadulterated belligerent oppression... Many times citizens simply overlook the mistakes of their ways because they have been duped by a society that systemically tolerates and promoted gnome captivity." Uhhh, okay. Another organization, the Gnome Liberation Front, periodically carries out "mass liberations." The police, however, are quick to correct the movement’s choice of words and have arrested many "liberators" on counts of robbery.
"Gnoming," or the traveling gnome prank, involves removing a gnome from its leafy lair, bringing it on a trip, and photographing it in front of various landmarks. The pictures are then sent to the unfortunate gardener, whose prized floral arrangements have undoubtedly suffered in the gnome’s absence. Despite its origins as a garden laborer, today's gnome is also used as a symbol for carefree vacationing. Traveling gnomes have gained international attention as the commercial mascot [photo above left] of Travelocity and the underlying story in the Oscar-nominated film Amélie. With a more cosmopolitan view of the world, gnomes have updated their conventional hobbies of fishing and napping. Today they are commonly depicted pursuing a variety of activities, from sight-seeing to dancing.
Timely Tips for August
Don’t prune or fertilize trees or shrubs now; new growth will not be winter hardy
Continue watering lawns thoroughly once a week during dry spells
Cut out berry canes that have just fruited
Begin planting fall crops: Beans, peas, beets, lettuce, spinach, chard
Perennials that have finished flowering shouldn’t be cut back all the way
Transplant and divide peonies, phlox, and daylilies
Cut and dry flowers that are suitable for winter bouquets
If you have bare lawn spots, spot seed between Aug. 15 and Sept. 15
"In August, the large masses of berries, which, when in flower, had attracted many wild bees, gradually assumed their bright velvety crimson hue, and by their weight again bent down and broke their tender limbs."- Henry David Thoreau
Friday, July 24, 2009
Friday, June 19, 2009
June Newsletter
See Page 4 for Web site information
“All the dirt you need to know . . . and a whole lot more!
Guy’s Greetings
In the doom and gloom of the weather these past few weeks, Mother Nature, in conjunction with the weatherman, managed to give us a beautiful morning for our “Breakfast in the Garden” last weekend. I want to thank all who attended and brought something to nibble on. We had some very tasty treats to savor, and I don’t think anyone who attended left wanting anything we didn’t have. I also want to thank our historian, Jo Miller, for bringing some club memorabilia to share. It really shows how the Patchogue Garden Club, our garden, our members, and our community have grown over the years. I look forward to seeing everyone at the meeting and at the 9th Annual Garden Tour coming up in July. Guy
Mark the Date
Tuesday, June 23, 2009, 6:00 PM, general meeting at the Long Island Flower Garden (courtesy of Doug Steigerwald, one of the original Patchogue Garden Club members) on South Country Road between Hedges and Orchard Streets. Bring your own chairs. Sandra Franco is hosting the July meeting, and Guy Vitale is hosting the August meeting.
Saturday, July 11, 2009, Patchogue Garden Club’s 9th annual garden tour. Pre-purchase tickets at $13 ($15 on the day of the tour). Gardens open at 10 AM and close at 3:00 PM. For more information, call Paula at 289-0234. The post-tour dinner will be on the same day as the tour at the home of Paula Murphy, 6:00 PM, 125 Smith Street, Patchogue, NY. Sorry, no fireworks this year. Bring your own bottle and an appetizer or dessert (the club provides the protein) and a seat if you want to be assured of having one. There is a performance at the band shell, so parking will be at a premium. It is best to arrive from the east.
Garden Gazette Page 2
May Meeting in a Flash
Carol Tvelia reported that we made $850 at the Plant and Yard Sale to support the Scholarship Fund. Josephine Miller had donated time to the Boys and Girls Club raffle for 2½ years resulting in a $200 donation.
Josephine asked members if anyone was having trouble with their boxwoods. There have been quite a few reports of them suddenly turning brown and dying.
Mary Ann said she has four houses for the Christmas tour on December 13, but would like two additional houses. The houses do not have to be members’ houses, just interesting ones, nicely decorated for the season.
The Memorial Plaque will be moved to the other side of the new barberry shrubs after they are planted. The plaque was loose, so Guy has it for safe keeping.
Caretakers of sections of the Community Garden should discuss what they want to change/plant with Diane from the Design Committee.
Georgia spoke with an elderly gentleman in the Community Garden requesting more benches in the shade. It will be looked into.
Millie Zimmerman opened up her yard to the Garden Club Members to visit on Sunday May 31st between 1PM and 5PM. [Ed. note: It was a lovely day for a change. Millie put out a nice variety of food and drink. Many members came and enjoyed the history of her place and the company.
Carol Tvelia reported that we made $850 at the Plant and Yard Sale to support the Scholarship Fund. Josephine Miller had donated time to the Boys and Girls Club raffle for 2½ years resulting in a $200 donation.
Josephine asked members if anyone was having trouble with their boxwoods. There have been quite a few reports of them suddenly turning brown and dying.
Mary Ann said she has four houses for the Christmas tour on December 13, but would like two additional houses. The houses do not have to be members’ houses, just interesting ones, nicely decorated for the season.
The Memorial Plaque will be moved to the other side of the new barberry shrubs after they are planted. The plaque was loose, so Guy has it for safe keeping.
Caretakers of sections of the Community Garden should discuss what they want to change/plant with Diane from the Design Committee.
Georgia spoke with an elderly gentleman in the Community Garden requesting more benches in the shade. It will be looked into.
Millie Zimmerman opened up her yard to the Garden Club Members to visit on Sunday May 31st between 1PM and 5PM. [Ed. note: It was a lovely day for a change. Millie put out a nice variety of food and drink. Many members came and enjoyed the history of her place and the company.
What? A Paper Birch Resistant to Bronze Birch Borer?
And not only that, but with great stress tolerance too. Introduced by North Dakota State University in Fargo ND, Betula papyrifera ‘Prairie Dream” has been tested for 30 years. With snow-white exfoliating bark it is Zone 3 hardy.
Always wanted a smoketree, but didn’t have enough room?
Now available from Holland is the dwarf smoketree, Cotinus coggygria ‘Young Lady”. It grows only 4-6’ tall and can be ordered from RareFind Nursery, 957 Patterson Rd., Jackson, NJ 08527.
How about a double-flowered gaillardia?
‘Dakota’ stands 15” tall by 18” wide at maturity. Its blooms are yellow with a red throat, and it has the usual gaillardia virtues of long bloom and great drought tolerance. Shown here, Gaillardia grandiflora Dakota ‘Reveille’ is a double-flowering type with trumpet-shaped petals throughout. The tight center buds are lime green with red tips before opening. The trumpets flare out larger as the plant ages. Removing the spent blooms will fuel the flowering performance to continue into early fall. Outstanding cut flower.
‘Dakota’ stands 15” tall by 18” wide at maturity. Its blooms are yellow with a red throat, and it has the usual gaillardia virtues of long bloom and great drought tolerance. Shown here, Gaillardia grandiflora Dakota ‘Reveille’ is a double-flowering type with trumpet-shaped petals throughout. The tight center buds are lime green with red tips before opening. The trumpets flare out larger as the plant ages. Removing the spent blooms will fuel the flowering performance to continue into early fall. Outstanding cut flower.
Garden Gazette Page 3
Serious Dirt from Paula Murphy [Richard is on leave this month]
Maple-seeded Madness
By Kendra Meinert at greenbaypressgazette.com
Someday I'd like to start a support group for homeowners with old maple trees. I say someday, because as the owner of three of the towering, helicopter-spewing beasts, who has time for support groups? Not this week anyway. But if I did …I'd call it MOA: Maple Owners Anonymous. The fact that you can put an "n'' on the end of MOA and get "moan'' is just a happy coincidence because that's exactly what we do when they start littering the yard with seeds this time of year. Our meetings could be held under the shade of — what else? — a maple tree. But not one of those silver maples that seemingly every homeowner on every street in our neighborhoods planted in the 1950s. No, no — much too messy, not to mention counterproductive. We'd commiserate instead beneath a nice, new, well-behaved variety of maple, perhaps a lovely "Autumn Blaze.' We would be identifiable by the stray helicopter hiding in our hair or sticking out from the hood of our sweatshirt. Fellow members would know better than to laugh, because they've all experienced the embarrassment of being caught out in public with their seeds showing. Sessions would start something like this, "Hi, I'm Kendra. I have three maple trees. I've been cleaning up after them for seven years now.'' Applause.
Rookies would find strength in the resilience of the veterans, like a neighbor who has been raking up seeds for more than a half-century from trees he planted himself for $1.50 each. Members like that would earn a Golden Helicopter Badge, akin to the 10-gallon pins the American Red Cross gives to its blood donors. Mostly what we would do at meetings is openly complain — without apology or guilt — about how something as simple as little yellow seeds the size of our pinky make us hate our yards for about two weeks every year in early June. How they find their way absolutely everywhere — in between the slats in the deck, the cracks in the sidewalk, the shingles of the roof and the rocks of garden borders. How they congregate in the center of hosta leaves and on top of Asiatic lilies. How they plant themselves in pots. How they turn perfectly nice spring garden beds into chaos. How they make a freshly mowed lawn look like somebody shot a confetti cannon over it. How they clog gutters — and then add insult to injury by starting to sprout if we don't get to them soon enough. How they have an uncanny knack for transforming an otherwise clean birdbath into a disgusting bowl of helicopter booyah. Knowing it was a futile effort, we would then engage in a lively exchange of the best ways to clean them up. Don't bother with a broom unless it's a push one. Those suckers are so streamlined that they don't sweep worth a darn. Blowers? Good luck corralling them into something that resembles a pile without blowing your garden beds clean of mulch in the process. Rake? Sure, so long as you've got hours to kill. Shop-Vac? Don't laugh. If we haven't tried it ourselves, we've seen a neighbor do it. At the end of the session, we would open it up for parting thoughts. Things like who could top whom with how many bags of seeds they've hauled so far to the yard waste site, or how we could dream up a way to turn helicopters into an alternative source of energy. Then we'd pat each other on the back as a sign of fellowship, politely point out that stray seed in our fellow MOA member's hair and recite a little prayer that next year is "a good year'' — a relative term in the world of us maple tree owners.
Someday I'd like to start a support group for homeowners with old maple trees. I say someday, because as the owner of three of the towering, helicopter-spewing beasts, who has time for support groups? Not this week anyway. But if I did …I'd call it MOA: Maple Owners Anonymous. The fact that you can put an "n'' on the end of MOA and get "moan'' is just a happy coincidence because that's exactly what we do when they start littering the yard with seeds this time of year. Our meetings could be held under the shade of — what else? — a maple tree. But not one of those silver maples that seemingly every homeowner on every street in our neighborhoods planted in the 1950s. No, no — much too messy, not to mention counterproductive. We'd commiserate instead beneath a nice, new, well-behaved variety of maple, perhaps a lovely "Autumn Blaze.' We would be identifiable by the stray helicopter hiding in our hair or sticking out from the hood of our sweatshirt. Fellow members would know better than to laugh, because they've all experienced the embarrassment of being caught out in public with their seeds showing. Sessions would start something like this, "Hi, I'm Kendra. I have three maple trees. I've been cleaning up after them for seven years now.'' Applause.
Rookies would find strength in the resilience of the veterans, like a neighbor who has been raking up seeds for more than a half-century from trees he planted himself for $1.50 each. Members like that would earn a Golden Helicopter Badge, akin to the 10-gallon pins the American Red Cross gives to its blood donors. Mostly what we would do at meetings is openly complain — without apology or guilt — about how something as simple as little yellow seeds the size of our pinky make us hate our yards for about two weeks every year in early June. How they find their way absolutely everywhere — in between the slats in the deck, the cracks in the sidewalk, the shingles of the roof and the rocks of garden borders. How they congregate in the center of hosta leaves and on top of Asiatic lilies. How they plant themselves in pots. How they turn perfectly nice spring garden beds into chaos. How they make a freshly mowed lawn look like somebody shot a confetti cannon over it. How they clog gutters — and then add insult to injury by starting to sprout if we don't get to them soon enough. How they have an uncanny knack for transforming an otherwise clean birdbath into a disgusting bowl of helicopter booyah. Knowing it was a futile effort, we would then engage in a lively exchange of the best ways to clean them up. Don't bother with a broom unless it's a push one. Those suckers are so streamlined that they don't sweep worth a darn. Blowers? Good luck corralling them into something that resembles a pile without blowing your garden beds clean of mulch in the process. Rake? Sure, so long as you've got hours to kill. Shop-Vac? Don't laugh. If we haven't tried it ourselves, we've seen a neighbor do it. At the end of the session, we would open it up for parting thoughts. Things like who could top whom with how many bags of seeds they've hauled so far to the yard waste site, or how we could dream up a way to turn helicopters into an alternative source of energy. Then we'd pat each other on the back as a sign of fellowship, politely point out that stray seed in our fellow MOA member's hair and recite a little prayer that next year is "a good year'' — a relative term in the world of us maple tree owners.
Garden Gazette
Page 4
ROAD TRIP
For more details, see
http://www.nybg.org/edible_garden/?xsc=eml_soe_2008_06_15_evt
http://www.nybg.org/edible_garden/?xsc=eml_soe_2008_06_15_evt
GardenGazette Page 5
Timely Tips for July
Young crucifers should be transplanted from the seed bed by mid-month.
Put a summer mulch on roses to conserve soil moisture and control weeds.
Deadhead spent blossoms to promote continuous flowering.
Prune climbing roses after flowering to promote new growth.
Divide and transplant Oriental poppies if necessary.
Mulch shrub and flower borders and beds if not done already.
Sow seeds of English daisy, forget-me-not, and pansy now.
Don’t use lawn weed killer in 75+ heat or damage to ornamentals will result.
Put a summer mulch on roses to conserve soil moisture and control weeds.
Deadhead spent blossoms to promote continuous flowering.
Prune climbing roses after flowering to promote new growth.
Divide and transplant Oriental poppies if necessary.
Mulch shrub and flower borders and beds if not done already.
Sow seeds of English daisy, forget-me-not, and pansy now.
Don’t use lawn weed killer in 75+ heat or damage to ornamentals will result.
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
May Newsletter
Guy’s Greetings
A thank you is owed to Carol Tvelia, who once again chaired the plant and yard sale this year, and all the members who donated there time and “stuff”. We made $815.00 this year. Remember, the proceeds from this event go to our Scholarship for a graduating Patchogue-Medford High School senior.
As we prepare for Memorial Day, please take a moment and remember those who gave their all, so we can enjoy the freedoms we have.
It’s finally time to plant, plant, plant!!!
Mark the Date
Tuesday, May 26, 2009, 7:00 PM, general meeting at Hagerman Fire Department, on the corner of Dunton Avenue and Oakdale.
Saturday, June 6, 2009, 9:00 AM, Breakfast in the garden. Bring a dish to share and your favorite beverage. The club provides bagels, coffee, tea, and fixin’s.
Saturday and Sunday, June 6-7, 2009, Neighbors and Gardeners of Bayport and Blue Point will be having a garden tour on the 6th, 1:00-5:00 PM, and a plant sale on the 6th and 7th, 9:00 AM-5:00 PM at 63 Gillette Avenue, Bayport. For more information: P.O. Box 525, Bayport, NY 11705. Get tickets at 472-1898; more info: Maureen at 363-8913 or 806-7640.
Saturday, July 11, 2009, Patchogue Garden Club’s 9th annual garden tour. Pre-purchase tickets at $13 ($15 on the day of the tour). Gardens open at 10 AM and close at 3:00 PM. For more information, call Paula at 289-0234. The post-tour dinner will be on the same day as the tour at the home of Paula Murphy, 6:00 PM, 125 Smith Street, Patchogue, NY. Sorry, no fireworks this year.
April Meeting in a Flash
Lee Ann Sealy representing Natural Gardening the Organic way through Neudorff gave a very informative talk. She also had a variety of products for the members to look at and information to take home. There was a lively question and answer session. The information was much appreciated.
Guy spoke about meeting with Village representatives regarding the feasibility of renovating the Winona Cottage. We still don’t know the answer to if and how the cottage can be utilized.
The Design Committee reported on adding and replacing plants in the Community Garden and on working on getting it named a National Wildlife Federation's Certified Wildlife Habitat™ (see below).
Bring Life to Your Backyard
Saturday, June 6, 2009, 9:00 AM, Breakfast in the garden. Bring a dish to share and your favorite beverage. The club provides bagels, coffee, tea, and fixin’s.
Saturday and Sunday, June 6-7, 2009, Neighbors and Gardeners of Bayport and Blue Point will be having a garden tour on the 6th, 1:00-5:00 PM, and a plant sale on the 6th and 7th, 9:00 AM-5:00 PM at 63 Gillette Avenue, Bayport. For more information: P.O. Box 525, Bayport, NY 11705. Get tickets at 472-1898; more info: Maureen at 363-8913 or 806-7640.
Saturday, July 11, 2009, Patchogue Garden Club’s 9th annual garden tour. Pre-purchase tickets at $13 ($15 on the day of the tour). Gardens open at 10 AM and close at 3:00 PM. For more information, call Paula at 289-0234. The post-tour dinner will be on the same day as the tour at the home of Paula Murphy, 6:00 PM, 125 Smith Street, Patchogue, NY. Sorry, no fireworks this year.
April Meeting in a Flash
Lee Ann Sealy representing Natural Gardening the Organic way through Neudorff gave a very informative talk. She also had a variety of products for the members to look at and information to take home. There was a lively question and answer session. The information was much appreciated.
Guy spoke about meeting with Village representatives regarding the feasibility of renovating the Winona Cottage. We still don’t know the answer to if and how the cottage can be utilized.
The Design Committee reported on adding and replacing plants in the Community Garden and on working on getting it named a National Wildlife Federation's Certified Wildlife Habitat™ (see below).
Bring Life to Your Backyard
Join more than 118,000 folks who have already created havens for wildlife through National Wildlife Federation's Certified Wildlife Habitat™ program. You'll get great benefits, too! Get started at http://www.nwf.org/index.cfm
When you certify with your application fee of $20, you'll receive all these great benefits: a personalized certificate that recognizes your NWF Certified Wildlife Habitat™; a free NWF membership which includes a full year's subscription to the award-winning National Wildlife® magazine and 10% off all NWF catalog purchases; a free subscription to the quarterly e-newsletter, Habitats, full of insightful tips and information on gardening and attracting wildlife year after year; and your name listed in NWF's National registry of certified habitats...to recognize all you've done for wildlife. And, once you complete your application, you'll be eligible to purchase the "wildly" popular Certified Wildlife Habitat™ yard sign that shows your commitment to conserving wildlife. All you need to do is provide elements from each of the following areas: food and water sources, places for cover, places to raise young, and sustainable gardening.
Long Island Natives
The use of native plants in landscaping and restoration activities on Long Island are being increasingly encouraged by local government, environmental organizations, and scientists, as the impacts of invasive species and development on biodiversity are understood. The all-volunteer Long Island Native Grass Initiative (LINGI) is one of the efforts to provide native plant material to the public. Species currently available at LINGI’s first annual sale are Indian grass (Sorghastrum nutans), Little Bluestem (Schizachryium scoparium), Big Blue Stem (Andropogon gerardii), Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum), Purple Top (Tridens flavus) and various forbs. The sale is June 12, 13, 26, and 27 from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Suffolk Community College Eastern Campus Greenhouse. For more details contact Polly L. Weigand, 757-2315 Ext. 3, or polly.weigand@suffolkcounty.ny.gov .
Soil District Technician & LINGI Coordinator
Suffolk County Soil and Water Conservation District
423 Griffing Ave. Suite 110
Riverhead, NY 11901
(631) 727-2315x3
(631) 727-3160 (fax)
Serious Dirt from Richard Waldman
So You Think YOU Have a Bug Problem?
24 April 2009, Wall Street Journal by JIM CARLTON
TUSCARORA, Nev. -- The residents of this tiny town, anticipating an imminent attack, will be ready with a perimeter defense. They'll position their best weapons at regular intervals, faced out toward the desert to repel the assault. Then they'll turn up the volume. Rock music blaring from boom boxes has proved one of the best defenses against an annual invasion of Mormon crickets. The huge flightless insects are a fearsome sight as they advance across the desert in armies of millions that march over, under or into anything in their way. The 2-inch-long blooded, ravenous insects often carpet the arid landscape in the spring and summer, devouring vegetation and driving residents to distraction.
But the crickets don't much fancy Led Zeppelin or the Rolling Stones, the townspeople figured out three years ago. So next month, Tuscarorans are preparing once again to get out their extension cords, array their stereos in a quarter-circle and tune them to rock station KHIX, full blast, from dawn to dusk. "It is part of our arsenal," says Laura Moore, an unemployed college professor and one of the town's 13 residents.
They march in columns that in peak years can be two miles long and a mile across, swarms move across the badlands in search of food. Starting in about May, they march through August or so, before stopping to lay eggs for next year and die. In between, they make an awful mess. They destroy crops and lots of the other leafy vegetation. They crawl all over houses, and some get inside. "You'll wake up and there'll be one sitting on your forehead, looking at you," says Ms. Moore. They swarm on roads, where cars turn them into slicks that can cause accidents. So many dead ones piled up on a highway last year that Elko County, Nev., called in snowplows to scrape them off. Squashed and dying crickets give off a sickening smell. "For us, it's mostly the yuck factor," says Ron Arthaud, a painter here.
Many springs, the infestation is negligible. But every few years, far bigger swarms hatch. From 2003 to 2006, armies of crickets went forth. They smothered the county seat, Elko, causing pandemonium as residents fled indoors. Realtor Jim Winer couldn't, because he had to show homes. "I carried a little broom in my car," he says, "and when I got out, I would sweep a path through the bugs to the house."
Every half-century or so, plague like numbers hatch. The critters got their name in the 19th century after a throng of them ravaged the crops of a Mormon settlement. But "I don't think they care about Mormons or Baptists," says Lynn Forsberg, who runs Elko County's public-works program. "I don't think they care about anything."
Including one another. Mormon crickets are programmed to march. Any cricket that falls by the wayside is eaten by others, ensuring that at least some cross the hot, barren stretches well-fed.
Charm to Cricket Menace"Taking the gong and a club, she faced the army of crickets and beat hard." Read the 1934 article from the Elko Free Press.
.
Following an unseasonably warm winter, some in Elko County fear a big crop this year of Mormon crickets, known more precisely as shield-backed katydids, or Anabrus simplex. State entomologist Jeff Knight is using computer models to document when the crickets will hatch, and "once they have hatched, we will start going in and mapping where all the crickets are," he says.
Towns in their path aren't waiting to find out. Elko County officials have stored tons of poison bait, which they'll soon start handing out. Placed properly, it can help. In 2003, which was a bad year, residents organized a bucket brigade to lay poison bait in the countryside, luring many bugs to their doom.
But last year Diana Bunitsky sprinkled the bait too close -- right outside the rural diner she runs, Lone Mountain Station -- and crickets swarmed onto her property to gobble it. Ms. Bunitsky ran outside and sprayed them with a garden hose, "but when I looked back, they had gone around and were all over my walls," she says.
Some people use chalk dust to try to smother crickets. Lori Roa, a job counselor in Elko, swears by Lemon Joy. She sprinkles the detergent over her shrubbery. In Jarbidge, Nev., Rey Nystrom, proprietor of the Jarbidge Trading Post, says a neighbor uses a squirt bottle loaded with soapy water. "But you're squirting one at a time, so it's spitting against the wind, so to speak," he says.
Here in Tuscarora, signs are worrisome this spring. Numerous cricket nymphs in the sandy soil are beginning to wiggle, says Elaine Parks, a local artist.
Tuscarora began as a gold-mining town in the late 19th century, and by 1878 had a population of 5,000. But the ore mostly petered out by 1900, and the town has been dwindling ever since, to its current size of just over a dozen. ("But in summer we get up to 20," says postmaster Julie Parks.)
What to do with all that Rhubarb: Rhubarb Almond Bars
These simple tangy rhubarb bars with an almond shortbread crust have all the sweet-tart flavors of rhubarb pie without the fussiness of pie crust—and you can still serve them topped with ice cream and/or whipped cream. The bars can be made through step 2 up to a day ahead of time.
Total Time: 2 hrs 40 minutes. Makes: 24 bars.
INGREDIENTS
1 1/2 pounds rhubarb stalks cut into 1/2-inch pieces (about 6 cups)
2 cups granulated sugar
2 1/3 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
2 sticks (8 ounces) frozen unsalted butter
2 large egg yolks
2/3 cup whole unsalted almonds, toasted
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Combine rhubarb and 1 cup of the sugar in a medium nonreactive saucepan over medium heat, stir to combine, and cook until rhubarb releases some juices, about 5 minutes. Reduce heat to low and simmer, stirring occasionally, until rhubarb is soft and just starting to fall apart, about 25 to 30 minutes. Remove to a bowl and let cool.
2. Combine flour, remaining 1 cup sugar, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl. Grate butter on the large holes of a box grater, add to flour mixture, and rub between your fingertips until ingredients just hold together when squeezed, about 3 minutes. Add yolks and combine until dough forms large, fist-size chunks when squeezed, about 1 minute (the dough will be crumbly). Shape dough into a flat disk, cover in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Heat the oven to 375°F and arrange a rack in the middle. Coarsely chop the almonds and set aside.
4. Evenly crumble chilled dough over the bottom of a 13-by-9-inch baking dish, then firmly press it into the dish using your fingers or the bottom of a measuring cup. Sprinkle almonds over top and press lightly into the dough. Using a slotted spoon, evenly spread cooled rhubarb over the base. If you have any remaining syrup, pour up to 1/3 cup over the top. Bake until dough is brown and rhubarb mixture is bubbly around the edges, about 40 to 50 minutes. Let cool completely before cutting. –Ed.
“Come Hither, Bumblebee, and Pollinate”
In the New York Times, April 30, Anne Raver wrote about research showing that native species are more attractive to pollinators than non-native species. A thousand different plants were surveyed, only 50 of which were native, but 80% of them attracted pollinators. Of the 950 non-native species, only 10% were. While the European honeybee population has dwindled, there are many other pollinators to take its place, e.g., native bumblebees, large and tiny wasps and flies, beetles, butterflies, hummingbirds, and solitary native bees. Many of our native bees are better than the European honeybee at pollinating because they can vibrate the flower, causing the pollen to fall from the stamens to the stigma where it fertilizes the ovules. The more habitat we provide and desirable species we plant, the more we will attract pollinators and increase their numbers. No one suggests giving up your lavender, catmint, oregano or rosemary; just pack in more natives, perennials such as black-eyed Susans, coneflower, giant hyssop, coreopsis, larkspur, Joe-pye weed, blanketflower, sunflower, lupine, evening primrose, poppy, penstemon, salvia, goldenrod, asters, and sedum. Annuals and biennials to plant include milkweed, cosmos, poppy, mullein, daisy, and verbena. Attractive shrubs include wild roses, blueberries, berry brambles, elderberry, and sumac. –Thanks to Paula Murphy
Timely Tips for June
Remove old flowers, not foliage, from spring-flowering bulbs & perennials.
Prune shrubs that just flowered—weigela, philadelphus, deutzia, etc.
Many shrubs can be propagated from softwood cuttings thru early July.
Sow seeds of fast-growing annuals for late bloom—marigolds, zinnia, cosmos.
Last chance to fertilize trees and shrubs!
Remove faded flowers from rhodies and azaleas.
Establish regular watering schedule for tomatoes to avert blossom-end rot.
Give house and greenhouse plants a vacation outdoors in a shady area.
Remove old flowers, not foliage, from spring-flowering bulbs & perennials.
Prune shrubs that just flowered—weigela, philadelphus, deutzia, etc.
Many shrubs can be propagated from softwood cuttings thru early July.
Sow seeds of fast-growing annuals for late bloom—marigolds, zinnia, cosmos.
Last chance to fertilize trees and shrubs!
Remove faded flowers from rhodies and azaleas.
Establish regular watering schedule for tomatoes to avert blossom-end rot.
Give house and greenhouse plants a vacation outdoors in a shady area.
Thought for Memorial Day
Our battle-fields, safe in the keeping
Of Nature's kind, fostering care,
Are blooming, - our heroes are sleeping, -
And peace broods perennial there.
~John H. Jewett
Our battle-fields, safe in the keeping
Of Nature's kind, fostering care,
Are blooming, - our heroes are sleeping, -
And peace broods perennial there.
~John H. Jewett
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
April 2009
President Guy R. Vitale, Babette Bishop, Charlie & Carol Reitz-Butler
Guy’s Greetings
“April showers bring May flowers”, so the saying goes.
If this is true, don’t be blue: The showers will subside,
The flowers will arrive, and May will take away your blues….By Guy R. Vitale
I‘d like to thank Richard & Babette Bishop, Charlie & Carol Reitz-Butler, Paula Murphy, and Mark Jeffers for their participation in building and marching with our float last Sunday in the St. Patrick’s Day Parade. It was truly the first beautiful spring day this season. Thanks to Kelleen Guyer and June Petruccelli for cheering us on from the side lines.
I hope to see everyone at our spring garden clean up. Remember, the more the merrier and we’ll get done that much faster.
Mark the Date
Tuesday, April 28, 2009, 7:00 PM, general meeting at Hagerman Fire Department, on the corner of Dunton Avenue and Oakdale. Our speaker will be LeeAnn Seeley. She will talk about organic gardening and products.
Saturday, April 25, 2009, opening of the Terry Street garden; rain date Sunday, April 26. Both days begin at 9:00 AM. Bring gloves, tools, and plenty of energy. The club will provide bagels, tea, and coffee to keep you going.
Saturday, May 16, 2009, 9 AM-4 PM, Annual Plant & Yard Sale. Clean out your attic and garage, pot up extra plants, and bring them to the garden with prices attached (Carol has stickers) at 8:00 AM. Workers needed; please contact Carol Tvelia. Rain date is Sunday, May 17, same time, same place.
Tuesday, May 19, 2009, 10:00 AM, Sayville Garden Club Luncheon and Raffle Boutique. Lands End, 80 Browns River Road, Sayville. Reserve by May 5, $40, payable to the Sayville Garden Club. Send to Pat Osarchuk, 144 Handsome Avenue, Sayville, NY 11782. Speaker: Floral designer Joan Smith.
March Meeting in a Flash
Joy Kaminski, self-proclaimed tree-hugger and proud of it, gave a very interesting and informative talk and slide presentation about the Bayard Cutting Arboretum. The club plans to apply for National Wildlife Habitat Certification from the NWF (nwf.org) for the Community Garden. Sandra Franco talked about HOG, the Hamlet Organic Garden, a Community Supported Agriculture farm located in Brookhaven Hamlet on Beaverdam Road. There are still shares available at the farm for pickup on Monday or Friday and in Bayshore. Visit http://hamletorganicgarden.org/ for details. Members Kathy McMahon, Ellen and Mike Scammon, and Arlene Lamberti all won tickets to the Patchogue Theatre that the club received through its membership in the Chamber of Commerce.
Thanks to all the club members who have signed on to care for the Community Garden this season: Fred & Bonnie Bossert, Peg & Frank Densing, Margaret Atkinson, June & Angelo Petruccelli, Babette Bishop, Carol & Charlie Butler, Carla Steward, Bert Voland, Lynn Kane, Sandra Franco, Carol Tvelia, Guy Vitale, Carolyn Savastano, Arlene Lamberti, Jo Miller, Karen Ferb, and John & Georgia Dulmovits.
Danger to Dogs of Cocoa Bean Mulch
If you’ve heard "Don't give your dog, chocolate it will kill him", you're probably wondering if it’s true. Yes, chocolate contains theobromine, toxic to dogs in sufficient quantities. Cocoa bean mulch is pretty and smells great, but may have toxic concentrations of theobromine. Home Depot only sells a "cleaned" version of cocoa mulch (look for "pet safe" on any brand you buy; 2 are Mirana and Cocoa Mulch). If you suspect your pet has ingested chocolate contact your Vet immediately! They can help you determine the proper treatment for your pet. (Thanks, Guy)
Where’s the Beet?
Is there anyone out there who hasn’t heard the brou-ha-ha over the beet-free White House Garden? First it was Bush and broccoli, now Obama and beets. Our own Sandra Franco disliked beets until she had fresh ones prepared properly from Hamlet Organic Garden last year. Could Sandra be our emissary to the White House to show the prez the tasty nutritional powerhouse he’s missing?
Serious Dirt from Richard Waldman
Pinching Pennies?
Have you turned over the sofa cushions to look for loose change? As gardeners we know how to stretch a dollar by dividing perennials, but now the Wall Street Journal’s 'Cheapskate' column (April 16, 2009) agrees that growing a vegetable garden could help stretch the family food budget. A study sponsored by Scotts Miracle-Gro found that an average family could spend $70 yearly on seeds and supplies and reap about $600 worth of vegetables. Now that is an impressive return on investment! Of course, missing from the $70 tab is the initial outlay of any fencing, irrigation, soil amendments, etc., and nowhere is there any accounting for labor - how well we know about that! Weeding, insect control, and staying off the lounge chair with a cool drink in the hot summer sun until the garden is tended to are things we know all too well. But once we taste the difference in the vegetables grown in our own back yard compared to some of the wax coated supermarket replicas, we know that growing a garden is more than just a way to save money.
Anne Frank Saplings May be Planted in 10 US Cities
NEW YORK — Saplings from the tree Anne Frank used to measure the seasons while hiding from the Nazis could be planted in 10 cities around the United States. The Anne Frank Center USA wants to plant the trees in 10 U.S. cities to symbolize the growth of tolerance. The saplings would come from an ailing horse chestnut tree in Amsterdam. (New York Times, April 17, 2009)
Amsterdam had to cut down the 170-year-old chestnut tree that Anne Frank mentioned in her diary while she was in hiding during the Nazi occupation of Holland because it was attacked by an aggressive fungus and a leaf miner.
Amsterdam had to cut down the 170-year-old chestnut tree that Anne Frank mentioned in her diary while she was in hiding during the Nazi occupation of Holland because it was attacked by an aggressive fungus and a leaf miner.
In “The Diary of Anne Frank”, the teenager looks at the tree through an attic window of the apartment, concealed in her father's factory, where she and her family hid from the Germans for more than two years. The factory and apartment where they hid, on the Prinsengracht canal, is preserved as a tribute to Anne Frank and to her book, which has been read by 25 million people worldwide.
"Nearly every morning I go to the attic to blow the stuffy air out of my lungs," Anne wrote on Feb. 23, 1944. "From my favourite spot on the floor I look up at the blue sky and the bare chestnut tree, on whose branches little raindrops shine, appearing like silver, and at the seagulls and other birds as they glide on the wind..."As long as this exists, I thought, and I may live to see it, this sunshine, the cloudless skies, while this lasts I cannot be unhappy."
The tree was in an inner courtyard and one of the few green living things visible at a time when windows had to be blacked out to prevent neighbours seeing people moving through the apartment.
Anne died of typhus in the Bergen-Belsen concentration camp, spring, 1945.
Members Pages
Members Pages
Submit your pictures, stories, recipes, or other items of interest. Swap or sell. Whatever.
Peanut Butter Pie from the kitchen of June Petruccelli
15 minutes prep time, serves 8
4 oz. cream cheese (softened)
1 cup confectioner’s sugar
1/3 cup peanut butter
1 package whipped topping mix
½ cup milk (skim or 2%)
1 graham cracker crust (9”)
¼ cup chopped nuts (optional)
Whip cream cheese until light and fluffy, beat in sugar and peanut butter. Prepare whipped topping with milk according to package instructions. Fold topping into peanut butter mixture, taking care not to break down topping. Pour into pie shell, top with chopped nuts. Chill until firm.
(Ed. note: If you are a diehard peanut butter cup fan—okay, I confess—decorate the top of this with chocolate sauce or chocolate curls. You could even chop up peanut butter cups and sprinkle on the top.)
thanks for sending the PGC site......if there is a spot for "old member news", I can report that I have joined the local Saturday New Baltimore Farmers' Market (www.newbaltimorefarmersmarket.com) & the Thursday Selkirk / New Bethlehem Farmers' Market & happily grow & sell herbicide- & pesticide-free veggies, berries, & fresh herbs up here near Albany from spring to fall...was always looking to have a road-side stand, even in Patchogue, but didn't have enough property to grow for sale.....here, all I have to do is remove all the rocks on these mineral-rich 3 acres, incorporate with truck-loads of compost & manure, mulch with hay/straw & I can plant what I want....picked my 1st 105 Red Haven & Belle of Georgia peaches last year & expect more this year, along with assorted plums & pears....specialty varieties are my aim so as to minimize competition at the markets....I miss my friends in Patchogue, but I now have exactly what I have been looking for....Love to all, Lynn G.
See the astonishing work of Frances Pelzman Liscio at http://www.punksandroses.com/. Originally a photographer of punk and country musicians, she has turned her lens towards no less romantic (but much prettier) subjects, photographing carefully-arranged and brilliantly-colored botanical collages. “I photographed the punks as if they were rare botanicals, and I photograph my botanicals as if they were vulnerable icons. What I attempt to underscore in both treatments is the fragile beauty that transcends our mortality—and the mortality that makes such beauty even more precious.” (Thanks to Carol Reitz-Butler)
Timely Tips for May
Plant dahlias, glads, cannas, and daylilies through the end of the month.
All annual flowers can be safely planted outdoors after mid-May.
Fertilize roses every 2-3 weeks and spray weekly with an all-purpose spray.
Stake perennial plants that may be damaged by wind before they’re too tall.
Prune spring-flowering shrubs immediately after blooming.
Apply summer mulches to perennial borders and beds.
Plant tuberous begonias and caladiums out in a shady protected area.
Sow beans, corn, tomatoes, eggplant, peppers, cukes, and squash outdoors.
My Mother's Garden
By Alice E. Allen
(Thanks to June Petruccelli)
Her heart is like her garden,
old-fashioned, quaint and sweet,
with here a wreath of blossoms,
and there a still retreat.
Forget-Me-Nots there linger,
to full perfection brought,
and there bloom purple Pansies,
in many a tender thought.
And in the quiet garden-
the garden of her heart-
song birds are always singing
their songs of cheer apart.
And from it floats forever,
o'ercoming sin and strife,
sweet as the breath of roses blown,
the fragrance of her life.
Peanut Butter Pie from the kitchen of June Petruccelli
15 minutes prep time, serves 8
4 oz. cream cheese (softened)
1 cup confectioner’s sugar
1/3 cup peanut butter
1 package whipped topping mix
½ cup milk (skim or 2%)
1 graham cracker crust (9”)
¼ cup chopped nuts (optional)
Whip cream cheese until light and fluffy, beat in sugar and peanut butter. Prepare whipped topping with milk according to package instructions. Fold topping into peanut butter mixture, taking care not to break down topping. Pour into pie shell, top with chopped nuts. Chill until firm.
(Ed. note: If you are a diehard peanut butter cup fan—okay, I confess—decorate the top of this with chocolate sauce or chocolate curls. You could even chop up peanut butter cups and sprinkle on the top.)
thanks for sending the PGC site......if there is a spot for "old member news", I can report that I have joined the local Saturday New Baltimore Farmers' Market (www.newbaltimorefarmersmarket.com) & the Thursday Selkirk / New Bethlehem Farmers' Market & happily grow & sell herbicide- & pesticide-free veggies, berries, & fresh herbs up here near Albany from spring to fall...was always looking to have a road-side stand, even in Patchogue, but didn't have enough property to grow for sale.....here, all I have to do is remove all the rocks on these mineral-rich 3 acres, incorporate with truck-loads of compost & manure, mulch with hay/straw & I can plant what I want....picked my 1st 105 Red Haven & Belle of Georgia peaches last year & expect more this year, along with assorted plums & pears....specialty varieties are my aim so as to minimize competition at the markets....I miss my friends in Patchogue, but I now have exactly what I have been looking for....Love to all, Lynn G.
See the astonishing work of Frances Pelzman Liscio at http://www.punksandroses.com/. Originally a photographer of punk and country musicians, she has turned her lens towards no less romantic (but much prettier) subjects, photographing carefully-arranged and brilliantly-colored botanical collages. “I photographed the punks as if they were rare botanicals, and I photograph my botanicals as if they were vulnerable icons. What I attempt to underscore in both treatments is the fragile beauty that transcends our mortality—and the mortality that makes such beauty even more precious.” (Thanks to Carol Reitz-Butler)
Timely Tips for May
Plant dahlias, glads, cannas, and daylilies through the end of the month.
All annual flowers can be safely planted outdoors after mid-May.
Fertilize roses every 2-3 weeks and spray weekly with an all-purpose spray.
Stake perennial plants that may be damaged by wind before they’re too tall.
Prune spring-flowering shrubs immediately after blooming.
Apply summer mulches to perennial borders and beds.
Plant tuberous begonias and caladiums out in a shady protected area.
Sow beans, corn, tomatoes, eggplant, peppers, cukes, and squash outdoors.
My Mother's Garden
By Alice E. Allen
(Thanks to June Petruccelli)
Her heart is like her garden,
old-fashioned, quaint and sweet,
with here a wreath of blossoms,
and there a still retreat.
Forget-Me-Nots there linger,
to full perfection brought,
and there bloom purple Pansies,
in many a tender thought.
And in the quiet garden-
the garden of her heart-
song birds are always singing
their songs of cheer apart.
And from it floats forever,
o'ercoming sin and strife,
sweet as the breath of roses blown,
the fragrance of her life.
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
March 2009
Guy’s Greetings
Hear ye! Hear ye! Hear ye! The Patchogue Garden Club hosted our 6th successful “Think Spring” luncheon. Congratulations and thank you to Georgia Dulmovits, Arlene Lamberti, and all the wonderful members on the committee for your tireless dedication to the luncheon’s success. In our shaky economy you managed make the luncheon grow in both attendees and the beautifully crafted baskets. Again, the accolades have been many, but the success is all yours.
St. Patrick’s Day was Tuesday, March 17th, and Patchogue’s parade is Sunday, March 29th at 1:00 pm. We start on Rider Avenue and finish with corned beef, cabbage, and a beer or two at the BrickHouse Brewery. Let’s show the village what makes the Patchogue Garden Club such a great service organization: our community involvement.
Historically, the average spring temperature in late March is in the mid 50’s, perfect weather for a Sunday stroll down Main Street and to get the blood flowing for another gardening season.
Mark the Date
Tuesday, March 24, 2009, 7:00 PM, general meeting at Hagerman Fire Department, on the corner of Dunton Avenue and Oakdale Avenue. The speaker will be Joy Kaminsky from Bayard Cutting Arboretum. The topic will be the history of arboretums, including cemetery arboretums, which will tie in with the idea of creating an arboretum cemetery on West Main Street where the cemetery restoration project is taking place. THIS IS NOT A GARDEN CLUB PROJECT!!!! Some members of the club are advisors.
Sunday, March 29, 1:00 PM, Patchogue St. Patrick’s Day Parade, Rider Ave.
Final dues closing date is March 31.
If anyone is interested in having a summer club meeting in your garden, please contact Paula. This invitation is offered to members' friends as well and does not have to be in Patchogue. Gardens are needed for June, July, and August.
April 4, 3:00-8:00 PM, Hagerman Fire House Spaghetti Supper fundraiser for Michael Vignato. See www.HagermanFD.com for details or call 654-2790 Ext. 200.
Saturday, April 25, 2009, opening of the Terry Street garden; rain date Sunday, April 26. Both days begin at 9:00 AM.
February Meeting in a Flash
Erik Meneses, Asian garden specialist, of Blue Monkey Asian Design and President of Eastern Suffolk Bonsai, made a presentation about bonsai which included a slide show and raffling off of the maple bonsai specimen he demonstrated. Marie Magnano was the happy winner. Eric also brought a beautiful specimen of azalea in flower. For further information about Eastern Suffolk Bonsai, email www.EasternSuffolkBonsai.org or call 363-6490.
Garden Conservancy Open Days: Plan Ahead!
More than 300 gardens participating in the Conservancy’s Open Days program will be open in 2009. You are invited to explore first-hand examples of outstanding design and horticultural practice that are growing in America’s gardens. The 2009 Open Days Directory is now available. The Suffolk County Open Days for May 2 are listed here. For details and directions, other dates, or if you happen to be traveling during the garden season, checks out the other gardens on the schedule at http://www.gardenconservancy.org/opendays/events.pl. For general information about the Conservancy, visit http://www.gardenconservancy.org/.
Abby Jane Brody. 44 Glade Road, East Hampton This is primarily a woodland garden in which the native oaks are the upper story. I am an inveterate plant collector with a special interest in rare or unusual flowering trees and shrubs as well as herbaceous plants. The half-acre site has something in flower, preferably fragrant, almost every day of the year. In early May, the last of the camellias and hellebores may be in bloom, as well as daphne, epimediums, and hundreds of other woodland plants.
Biercuk/Luckey Garden 18 Sayres Path, Wainscott. Our four-season woodland garden under a high oak canopy shelters a collection of rhododendrons, azaleas, kalmia, pieris, understory trees, perennials, bulbs, and tropicals in season. A mostly sunny rear corner contains a pool designed as a pond with a waterfall and is surrounded with plantings which peak mid-July through October. Winding paths and stone walls enhance a sense of depth and elevation change on a mostly flat acre. There is something in bloom every season.
Margaret Kerr. The garden, designed by Kerr, surrounds the house and studios on two acres that extend down to the wetlands of Accabonack Harbor. Kerr’s brick rug sculptures, inspired by tribal Middle Eastern carpets, are placed throughout the garden. One, a brick prayer rug, lies in a contemplative glade below her studio. Kerr collects plants grown in the Middle Ages in a courtyard around a fountain and lily pool highlighted with espaliered pear trees. In the spring, drifts of thousands of daffodils bloom in the fields around the house and are left unmown until late fall. Native grasses and wildflowers make islands of meadow during the summer.
Mrs. Donald J. Bruckmann. This seaside location emphasizes traditional and informal plantings of herbaceous borders, woodland, meadow, and rose gardens. Two ponds are surrounded by iris, asters, and other sun-loving plants. An ocean terrace and adjacent dune combine beach vegetation with bright annuals for an interesting contrast of the cultivated and naturalistic.
Serious Dirt from Richard Waldman
Roberto Burle Marx
At the New York Botanical Garden until April 12th is the Orchid Show featuring an exhibit designed by the landscape designer Raymond Jungles. He has used influences the well-known Brazilian landscape architect, painter, ecologist and naturalist Roberto Burle Marx (1909-1994). Jungles met Marx when attending a lecture while a student at the University of Florida; he subsequently made many trips to Brazil to view Marx’ design work. Landscape architects have been influenced by Marx through his many lectures and writings.
Marx was born in Sao Paulo, but it was in Germany as a student of painting that he became interested in Brazil’s native flora while visiting a local botanical garden. When he returned to Brazil in 1930 he began his extensive collection of native plants and two years later had his first commission for a landscape at a private residence. Years later his collection of native plants grew to be housed in a large estate outside of Rio de Janeiro that had been donated to the Brazilian government in 1985. The use of native species within his designs was very important in order to show off each plant’s characteristics. The use of water and pavements is also something that can be found in many of his designs such as in the Copacabana promenade.
If Roberto Burle Marx found influences in his work at a trip to a botanical garden, isn’t it time you venture out to the New York Botanical Garden yourself?
Economics 101
This is the garden club newsletter, not the Wall Street Journal, so I am not about to write about the current state of the economy. But I am reminded of Econ 10, reading about the cost of tulips and the havoc caused in the Netherlands back in the 1600's. A book written in 1841, “Extraordinary Popular Delusions and the Madness of Crowds”, claims that investors in tulip bulbs were ruined in the dramatic rise and fall of bulb prices, with tulip contracts selling for more than ten times the annual income of a skilled craftsman at that time. Historians now disagree with author using with the term 'tulipomania' as it refers to an economic bubble. Tulips were introduced to the Netherlands from the Ottoman Empire in the mid-16th century. Within a short time tulips became status symbols. Previous thinking had the entire population speculating, causing the cost of tulip bulbs to rise. People felt this could last forever and had visions of wealth for all. In 1637 the traders weren’t able to get new buyers willing and able to pay the highly inflated prices, so the demand for tulips fell along with the price, and the bubble burst. Tulip speculators were now asking for aid from the government in declaring that contracts could now be voided by paying a 10% fee. According to the author, those who now held the tulip bulbs were left without any enforcement of their contracts since the judicial courts considered this gambling. Now it is thought that the tulipomaniacs were really just a small group of people, not the entire Netherlands as originally believed. Recent findings show trading in tulips was only by merchants and wealthy craftsmen, making the bubble very limited. During 1636-1637 there was a dramatic rise and fall in the cost of tulip bulbs, but not as dramatic a bubble as originally thought. Since the original book was highly popular and widely cited by other writers and economists (even up till the 1980's) the use of the term 'tulipomania' has remained. What will they say about today’s economic climate years from now? I just hope they keep the plant world out of it!
The 6th Annual “Think Spring” luncheon was a grand success, and a good time was had by all who attended. The Mediterranean Manor, as always, did not disappoint, and in fact was better than ever.
Many club members made donations for the raffle baskets. Those marked with an * were members of the committee who gave generously of their time as well. Those marked with & also participated in the Members’ Art Show, a first for the luncheon and a big hit. Let’s have a round of applause for all of these members!
Special thanks to co-chairs Georgia Dulmovits and Arlene Lamberti for a bang-up job yet again! In no particular order: Margaret Atkinson*, Babette Bishop*, Barbara Bruce*&, Rosalie Coleman&, Sandra Franco, June Petruccelli*, Carolyn Savastano*&, Diane and Bert Voland, Judy Zuck, Jo Miller, Fred and Bonnie Bossert, Peg and Frank Densing, Jim Tooher, Barbara Aragon*, Guy R. Vitale and Mark Jeffers, Joan Delaney, Ann Rubbo*, Marie Magnano*, Carolyn Young*, Ruth Szuminskyj*, Paula Murphy, Millie Zimmerman*, Donna Mujic&, Karen Ferb*&, Violet Mulligan*, Janet Heyer*, Carol Tvelia, Gladys Heimburger*, Joanna Drake, Marita Morello*, Joan Kattau, Mary Ann Tchinnis. Other members of the committee were Barbara Bestafka, Pauline Carleton, Carla Steward, Ellen Brandt, and Joan Tifford. Other members in the Art Show were Kathy Barthman, Carol Reitz-Butler, Kathy McMahon, and Tony Wenderoth. If I left anyone out, please let me know and accept my apologies. Ed.
Many businesses and organizations gave their generous support to our 2009 luncheon. We are ever grateful:
Jim Tooher Three Village Music Bayport Flower Houses
Friends of the Patchogue-Medford Library The Fish Store
Trendsetters Hair and Skin Care Blum’s
Town of Brookhaven Highway Dept. Nino’s Pizza
Long Island Statuary J&R Steak House
Waitress to Go Casino Clam
Fantastic Gardens Country Kitchen Restaurant
New York New Wave Hair Salon The Curry Club
Petite Pets Day Care and Boarding Swiftway Wine & Liquor
Finest Fitness Health and Sports Club The Pilates Studio at Bayport
Signs and Advertising Associate Prime Meat Market
Karl Ehmer Pork Store Advance Auto Parts
Time On My Hands Bissett Nursery
Bobbique Swan Cleaners
King Kullen Grocery Gallo Tropical Restaurant
BrickHouse Brewery and Restaurant The Good Steer Restaurant
Pura Vida Burrito Company Carvel
Panera Bread Painter’s
SunWave Liquors Alchemy Design
Tricia’s Hair Galleria Home Depot
Head Cutters Long Island Flower Garden & Florist
Quench Wine & Spirits Forever Young National Display Garden
Timely Tips for April
Prune forsythia soon after it finishes flowering for next year’s flowers.
Plant trees and shrubs. Plant new roses before growth begins.
The months of March, April and May are ideal for pruning evergreens. Remove all dead, diseased, and undesirable wood. However, do not prune back into the bare wood of the plant.
Plant summer flowering bulbs, but take care to wait until last frost for tender ones.
April is a great time to select and plant fruit trees and berry plants. Fruits and berries do best in full sun.
On Arbor Day, attend a ceremony and plant a tree.
If you ignore beauty, you will soon find yourself without it…
But if you invest in beauty, it will remain with you all the days of your life.
~Frank Lloyd Wright
Thanks to Diane Riviello-Voland for the quote.
Hear ye! Hear ye! Hear ye! The Patchogue Garden Club hosted our 6th successful “Think Spring” luncheon. Congratulations and thank you to Georgia Dulmovits, Arlene Lamberti, and all the wonderful members on the committee for your tireless dedication to the luncheon’s success. In our shaky economy you managed make the luncheon grow in both attendees and the beautifully crafted baskets. Again, the accolades have been many, but the success is all yours.
St. Patrick’s Day was Tuesday, March 17th, and Patchogue’s parade is Sunday, March 29th at 1:00 pm. We start on Rider Avenue and finish with corned beef, cabbage, and a beer or two at the BrickHouse Brewery. Let’s show the village what makes the Patchogue Garden Club such a great service organization: our community involvement.
Historically, the average spring temperature in late March is in the mid 50’s, perfect weather for a Sunday stroll down Main Street and to get the blood flowing for another gardening season.
Mark the Date
Tuesday, March 24, 2009, 7:00 PM, general meeting at Hagerman Fire Department, on the corner of Dunton Avenue and Oakdale Avenue. The speaker will be Joy Kaminsky from Bayard Cutting Arboretum. The topic will be the history of arboretums, including cemetery arboretums, which will tie in with the idea of creating an arboretum cemetery on West Main Street where the cemetery restoration project is taking place. THIS IS NOT A GARDEN CLUB PROJECT!!!! Some members of the club are advisors.
Sunday, March 29, 1:00 PM, Patchogue St. Patrick’s Day Parade, Rider Ave.
Final dues closing date is March 31.
If anyone is interested in having a summer club meeting in your garden, please contact Paula. This invitation is offered to members' friends as well and does not have to be in Patchogue. Gardens are needed for June, July, and August.
April 4, 3:00-8:00 PM, Hagerman Fire House Spaghetti Supper fundraiser for Michael Vignato. See www.HagermanFD.com for details or call 654-2790 Ext. 200.
Saturday, April 25, 2009, opening of the Terry Street garden; rain date Sunday, April 26. Both days begin at 9:00 AM.
February Meeting in a Flash
Erik Meneses, Asian garden specialist, of Blue Monkey Asian Design and President of Eastern Suffolk Bonsai, made a presentation about bonsai which included a slide show and raffling off of the maple bonsai specimen he demonstrated. Marie Magnano was the happy winner. Eric also brought a beautiful specimen of azalea in flower. For further information about Eastern Suffolk Bonsai, email www.EasternSuffolkBonsai.org or call 363-6490.
Garden Conservancy Open Days: Plan Ahead!
More than 300 gardens participating in the Conservancy’s Open Days program will be open in 2009. You are invited to explore first-hand examples of outstanding design and horticultural practice that are growing in America’s gardens. The 2009 Open Days Directory is now available. The Suffolk County Open Days for May 2 are listed here. For details and directions, other dates, or if you happen to be traveling during the garden season, checks out the other gardens on the schedule at http://www.gardenconservancy.org/opendays/events.pl. For general information about the Conservancy, visit http://www.gardenconservancy.org/.
Abby Jane Brody. 44 Glade Road, East Hampton This is primarily a woodland garden in which the native oaks are the upper story. I am an inveterate plant collector with a special interest in rare or unusual flowering trees and shrubs as well as herbaceous plants. The half-acre site has something in flower, preferably fragrant, almost every day of the year. In early May, the last of the camellias and hellebores may be in bloom, as well as daphne, epimediums, and hundreds of other woodland plants.
Biercuk/Luckey Garden 18 Sayres Path, Wainscott. Our four-season woodland garden under a high oak canopy shelters a collection of rhododendrons, azaleas, kalmia, pieris, understory trees, perennials, bulbs, and tropicals in season. A mostly sunny rear corner contains a pool designed as a pond with a waterfall and is surrounded with plantings which peak mid-July through October. Winding paths and stone walls enhance a sense of depth and elevation change on a mostly flat acre. There is something in bloom every season.
Margaret Kerr. The garden, designed by Kerr, surrounds the house and studios on two acres that extend down to the wetlands of Accabonack Harbor. Kerr’s brick rug sculptures, inspired by tribal Middle Eastern carpets, are placed throughout the garden. One, a brick prayer rug, lies in a contemplative glade below her studio. Kerr collects plants grown in the Middle Ages in a courtyard around a fountain and lily pool highlighted with espaliered pear trees. In the spring, drifts of thousands of daffodils bloom in the fields around the house and are left unmown until late fall. Native grasses and wildflowers make islands of meadow during the summer.
Mrs. Donald J. Bruckmann. This seaside location emphasizes traditional and informal plantings of herbaceous borders, woodland, meadow, and rose gardens. Two ponds are surrounded by iris, asters, and other sun-loving plants. An ocean terrace and adjacent dune combine beach vegetation with bright annuals for an interesting contrast of the cultivated and naturalistic.
Serious Dirt from Richard Waldman
Roberto Burle Marx
At the New York Botanical Garden until April 12th is the Orchid Show featuring an exhibit designed by the landscape designer Raymond Jungles. He has used influences the well-known Brazilian landscape architect, painter, ecologist and naturalist Roberto Burle Marx (1909-1994). Jungles met Marx when attending a lecture while a student at the University of Florida; he subsequently made many trips to Brazil to view Marx’ design work. Landscape architects have been influenced by Marx through his many lectures and writings.
Marx was born in Sao Paulo, but it was in Germany as a student of painting that he became interested in Brazil’s native flora while visiting a local botanical garden. When he returned to Brazil in 1930 he began his extensive collection of native plants and two years later had his first commission for a landscape at a private residence. Years later his collection of native plants grew to be housed in a large estate outside of Rio de Janeiro that had been donated to the Brazilian government in 1985. The use of native species within his designs was very important in order to show off each plant’s characteristics. The use of water and pavements is also something that can be found in many of his designs such as in the Copacabana promenade.
If Roberto Burle Marx found influences in his work at a trip to a botanical garden, isn’t it time you venture out to the New York Botanical Garden yourself?
Economics 101
This is the garden club newsletter, not the Wall Street Journal, so I am not about to write about the current state of the economy. But I am reminded of Econ 10, reading about the cost of tulips and the havoc caused in the Netherlands back in the 1600's. A book written in 1841, “Extraordinary Popular Delusions and the Madness of Crowds”, claims that investors in tulip bulbs were ruined in the dramatic rise and fall of bulb prices, with tulip contracts selling for more than ten times the annual income of a skilled craftsman at that time. Historians now disagree with author using with the term 'tulipomania' as it refers to an economic bubble. Tulips were introduced to the Netherlands from the Ottoman Empire in the mid-16th century. Within a short time tulips became status symbols. Previous thinking had the entire population speculating, causing the cost of tulip bulbs to rise. People felt this could last forever and had visions of wealth for all. In 1637 the traders weren’t able to get new buyers willing and able to pay the highly inflated prices, so the demand for tulips fell along with the price, and the bubble burst. Tulip speculators were now asking for aid from the government in declaring that contracts could now be voided by paying a 10% fee. According to the author, those who now held the tulip bulbs were left without any enforcement of their contracts since the judicial courts considered this gambling. Now it is thought that the tulipomaniacs were really just a small group of people, not the entire Netherlands as originally believed. Recent findings show trading in tulips was only by merchants and wealthy craftsmen, making the bubble very limited. During 1636-1637 there was a dramatic rise and fall in the cost of tulip bulbs, but not as dramatic a bubble as originally thought. Since the original book was highly popular and widely cited by other writers and economists (even up till the 1980's) the use of the term 'tulipomania' has remained. What will they say about today’s economic climate years from now? I just hope they keep the plant world out of it!
The 6th Annual “Think Spring” luncheon was a grand success, and a good time was had by all who attended. The Mediterranean Manor, as always, did not disappoint, and in fact was better than ever.
Many club members made donations for the raffle baskets. Those marked with an * were members of the committee who gave generously of their time as well. Those marked with & also participated in the Members’ Art Show, a first for the luncheon and a big hit. Let’s have a round of applause for all of these members!
Special thanks to co-chairs Georgia Dulmovits and Arlene Lamberti for a bang-up job yet again! In no particular order: Margaret Atkinson*, Babette Bishop*, Barbara Bruce*&, Rosalie Coleman&, Sandra Franco, June Petruccelli*, Carolyn Savastano*&, Diane and Bert Voland, Judy Zuck, Jo Miller, Fred and Bonnie Bossert, Peg and Frank Densing, Jim Tooher, Barbara Aragon*, Guy R. Vitale and Mark Jeffers, Joan Delaney, Ann Rubbo*, Marie Magnano*, Carolyn Young*, Ruth Szuminskyj*, Paula Murphy, Millie Zimmerman*, Donna Mujic&, Karen Ferb*&, Violet Mulligan*, Janet Heyer*, Carol Tvelia, Gladys Heimburger*, Joanna Drake, Marita Morello*, Joan Kattau, Mary Ann Tchinnis. Other members of the committee were Barbara Bestafka, Pauline Carleton, Carla Steward, Ellen Brandt, and Joan Tifford. Other members in the Art Show were Kathy Barthman, Carol Reitz-Butler, Kathy McMahon, and Tony Wenderoth. If I left anyone out, please let me know and accept my apologies. Ed.
Many businesses and organizations gave their generous support to our 2009 luncheon. We are ever grateful:
Jim Tooher Three Village Music Bayport Flower Houses
Friends of the Patchogue-Medford Library The Fish Store
Trendsetters Hair and Skin Care Blum’s
Town of Brookhaven Highway Dept. Nino’s Pizza
Long Island Statuary J&R Steak House
Waitress to Go Casino Clam
Fantastic Gardens Country Kitchen Restaurant
New York New Wave Hair Salon The Curry Club
Petite Pets Day Care and Boarding Swiftway Wine & Liquor
Finest Fitness Health and Sports Club The Pilates Studio at Bayport
Signs and Advertising Associate Prime Meat Market
Karl Ehmer Pork Store Advance Auto Parts
Time On My Hands Bissett Nursery
Bobbique Swan Cleaners
King Kullen Grocery Gallo Tropical Restaurant
BrickHouse Brewery and Restaurant The Good Steer Restaurant
Pura Vida Burrito Company Carvel
Panera Bread Painter’s
SunWave Liquors Alchemy Design
Tricia’s Hair Galleria Home Depot
Head Cutters Long Island Flower Garden & Florist
Quench Wine & Spirits Forever Young National Display Garden
Timely Tips for April
Prune forsythia soon after it finishes flowering for next year’s flowers.
Plant trees and shrubs. Plant new roses before growth begins.
The months of March, April and May are ideal for pruning evergreens. Remove all dead, diseased, and undesirable wood. However, do not prune back into the bare wood of the plant.
Plant summer flowering bulbs, but take care to wait until last frost for tender ones.
April is a great time to select and plant fruit trees and berry plants. Fruits and berries do best in full sun.
On Arbor Day, attend a ceremony and plant a tree.
If you ignore beauty, you will soon find yourself without it…
But if you invest in beauty, it will remain with you all the days of your life.
~Frank Lloyd Wright
Thanks to Diane Riviello-Voland for the quote.
Thursday, February 19, 2009
February 2009
Guy’s Greetings
It’s February, and the holidays are over! Christmas, the New Year, and Groundhog Day, yes, Groundhog Day! On February 2nd the groundhogs told us we have six more weeks of winter. How can this be? We have seed packets in the stores, our daylight hours are growing longer, and the daffodils have broken ground. Mother Nature has even given us a peek (just a peek) of things to come with 60 degree weather. But the calendar is never wrong; it is still February. For me, when I see robins, I know winter is coming to an end and spring is around the corner.
As we look forward to the renewal of our gardens, our adventures, and our lives, we have to keep in mind how we got here and where we are going. The Patchogue Garden Club has grown over the years and evolved into an organization we can all be proud of. The accolades are many, but the success is yours. Remember our motto, “Come grow with us”. I invite everyone to join a committee, pull a weed, or share a story. But most of all, become involved, and we will become a stronger service organization
Thanks, Guy
Please Note: The policy of the Patchogue Garden Club is to use member contact information only for club business.
Mark the Date
Tuesday, February 24, 2009, 7 PM, general meeting at Hagerman Fire Department. Guest speaker: Erik Meneses of the Eastern Bonsai Society on "The Art of Bonsai". Please bring your luncheon baskets and other contributions to this meeting if you haven’t already done so. You may also drop them at Georgia’s house, 168 E. Lakewood, Patchogue. Reservations will also be taken; bring check for $32 payable to Patchogue Garden Club or cash. Karen Ferb is collecting payment. Please also pay your dues, $15 for an individual, $20 for a family.
Thursday, March 12, 2009, 10:30 AM, annual “Think Spring” speaker, luncheon and raffle. Mediterranean Manor, tickets $32.00 For more information, call Georgia Dulmovits (289-0867) or Arlene Lamberti (289-3667). If you have a dietary problem, please let me know so I can talk with the Manor and get back to you. I wish to thank you all for your help in donating baskets, other prizes, and gift certificates. This year we have 24 members on our committee, and they have been working really hard. Great group! To all our members, thank you for your continued support. I hope to see you at the luncheon and the meeting.
Georgia
January Meeting in a Flash
Our new president, Guy R. Vitale, thanked the outgoing officers for all the hard work during the past year. He is pleased and proud to have been elected to serve.
Club members voted with great community spirit to again participate in the March 29 Patchogue St. Patrick’s Day Parade for which we have won trophies in the past. So far, the members who have signed up are Guy R. Vitale, Mark Jeffers, Diane Riviello-Voland, Sandra Franco, Bonnie and Fred Bossert, JoMiller, Georgia Dulmovits, Carla Steward, Arlene Lamberti, Mary Ann Tchinnis, and Karen Ferb. Join the ranks and end the parade with the corned beef and cabbage at the BrickHouse Brewery and Restaurant on Main Street!
Calendar of Events for 2009:
Annual Think Spring Luncheon, Thursday, March 12, 2009,Opening of the Terry Street garden, 9 AM Saturday, April 25, 2009; rain date Sunday, April 26, 2009 Annual Plant and Yard sale, 9 AM to 4 PM, Saturday, May 16; rain date, Sunday, May 17, 2009 Breakfast in the Garden, 9 AM, Saturday, June 6, 2009 Annual Garden Tour, Saturday, July 11, 2009, Harvest dinner, 3 PM, Sunday, October 18, 2009, Closing of the Terry Street garden, 9 AM Saturday, November 7, 2009; rain date Sunday, November 8, 2009, Annual Christmas House Tour, Sunday, Dec. 13, 2009
Who’s on first? Want to join a committee?
Contact the chairman.Newsletter, Karen Ferb; Web site, Kelleen Guyer & Karen Ferb; Design Committee for the Terry Street garden, Diane Riviello-Voland; Maintenance for the Terry Street Garden, Georgia Dulmovits; History and PR, Josephine Miller; Host/Hostess Committee, Arlene Lamberti; Nominating Committee, rotates yearly; Scholarship Committee, Guy R. Vitale; Membership, June Petruccelli; ‘Think Spring’ Luncheon Committee, co-chairmen Georgia Dulmovits and Arlene Lamberti; Plant and Yard Sale, Carol Tvelia; Breakfast in the Garden, Diane Riviello-Voland; Annual Garden Tour, Paula Murphy; Harvest Dinner, Guy R. Vitale; Christmas House Tour: Mary Ann Tchinnis; Summer Meetings in members’ or their friends’ gardens, please volunteer in advance for June, July, and August to Guy. Sign up at meetings or see the club membership list for contact info.
Serious Dirt from Richard Waldman
Saving ForestsHere on the northeast coast of the United States we have in the last few decades witnessed the disappearance of various tree species (e.g., Eastern Hemlock forests were wiped out by the wooly adelgid insect). Currently U.S. and Canadian researchers have noted trees in the western United States and Canada are dying quicker than in the past 30 years due to the rise in the average temperature in these areas. With an increase of little more than one degree, warmer temperatures are causing forests to be susceptible to attacks by pine beetles and other destructive organisms. Thinner and weaker forests are more vulnerable to wild fires and are stressed with prolonged droughts that hasten their demise. Various tree species at different elevations are dying faster than ever before.
Rather than just reporting on these new discoveries, scientists are now in the process of coming up with land use policies and are suggesting regulations to help forests survive. Reducing development in or near wild forest areas that are prone to fire risk will help these forests survive.
Are You Bats!?!
Ugh! I can't stand 'em. BATS! See? You too! There is something about them that makes you shiver and put your hands on your head and duck for cover. No love lost here. And what do they have to do with gardening, you ask? Just consider how many mosquitoes and other insects swarming in your backyard would increase to if it wasn’t for the bat’s voracious appetite. Along with bees and other beneficial insects, bats aid in the pollination of many plants. But now scientists are discovering that there is a deadly white nose syndrome that has spread in six northeast states (New York included) that has affected the bat population. The fungus that causes this syndrome makes the bat go through its body fat storage before spring while in hibernation, with the result that it leaves to search for food when the insect population is too low. A count of the dead bat population has been estimated in the hundreds of thousands. Researchers are considering a fungicide or a fungus killing bacteria that could spread from bat to bat to counteract this deadly problem. And who would have thought that you might feel sorry for a bat?!?
Right in Our Own Back Yard!
Following six months of research, nominations, and extensive voting by readers of the Long Island Press, Old Westbury Gardens has been named the winner in the Best Public Garden category in the Best of Long Island 2009 program. The garden was also named one of the world’s most beautiful by ForbesTraveler.com, “incredibly beautifully maintained and impeccably manicured”. Plan a visit after the April opening to celebrate their 50th anniversary. See more at http://www.oldwestburygardens.org. Take note too of the astoundingly gorgeous interior.
Members Page. Contribute anything you feel of interest. Want to swap? Want to buy? Want to sell? Share? Giveaway? Carpool? Here’s your soapbox, fire away!
From Betty Baran: The 27th Annual Spring Gardening School of Cornell Cooperative Extension of Suffolk County will be held at Riverhead Middle School on April 4, 2009, Ward Melville High School on April 18, 2009, and Bellport High School on April 25, 2009, from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm. This day includes your choice of classes from four different sessions, with information for every level of gardener from beginner to advanced. Topics include:• Fundamentals of gardening• Low maintenance shade gardening• Floral design• Home composting• Low-water gardening• Gardening with children• Vegetable gardening• Herbs, dahlias, hydrangeas, bulbs, roses, and many more!
All classes are taught by Master Gardeners and Extension Educators. Included in your fee are free soil pH testing, plant diagnostic clinic, plant sale from some of the finest nurseries, continental breakfast, delicious boxed lunch, and door prizes. The fee is $55 per person; early bird registration is $50 before March 6, 2009. The registration form with a full schedule of classes and their descriptions is available for download at www.cce.cornell.edu/suffolk or contact Caroline Kiang at 631-727-7850, ext. 337 or 345.From Ellen Scammon: Is anyone was interested in playing Mah Jong during the day? Call me at 447-9027 or as emailescammon@yahoo.com.
From Josephine Miller and Paula Murphy, by popular demand, the recipe for the Pine Nut Cookies with Rosemary they baked for the Christmas House Tour Hospitality spread two years running:
Ingredients
• 3 1/2 teaspoons coarsely chopped fresh rosemary
• 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted, plus more for topping cookies
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon coarse salt
• 10 tablespoons (1 1/4 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 3 tablespoons heavy cream
• 1 large egg
• Fine sanding sugar, for sprinkling
Directions
1. Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Finely chop rosemary in a food processor. Add pine nuts; pulse until coarsely ground. Transfer to a large bowl. Whisk in 2 cups flour, the baking soda, ginger, and salt; set aside.
2. Put butter and granulated sugar into the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Mix on high speed until pale and fluffy, about 5 minutes. Mix in oil. Reduce speed to low. Mix in flour mixture. Add cream; mix until well combined, about 2 minutes. Mix in egg, then remaining 1/4 cup flour.
3. Shape dough into 3/4-inch balls, and space 2 inches apart on baking sheets lined with parchment paper. Flatten slightly with fingers, and top each with a pine nut. Sprinkle with sanding sugar.
4. Bake cookies, rotating sheets halfway through, until edges are golden, about 13 minutes. Let cool 10 minutes on sheets on wire racks. Transfer cookies to racks to cool completely. Cookies can be stored in airtight containers up to 3 days. They freeze well too.
From Guy R. Vitale:
Two free websites that have great gardening information along with email only coupons are www.homedepot.com/gardenclub and www.learn2grow.com from Lowes. I think this is information worth sharing to get free gardening coupons. We all can all use some help saving money!
Timely Tip
Do you know that February is National Wild Bird Feeding Month? Celebrate by offering up tasty options for your feathered friends. If you're not sure which types of birds will be visiting your yard, your best bets are black-oil sunflower seed and suet, high-calorie energy sources for a variety of species. Cheaperversions contain large percentages of milo and rape seeds that most backyard birds don't like. Buy a somewhat pricier mix that contains plenty of sunflower seeds, millet, and cracked corn. Birds won't discard as much, your feeder won't empty as quickly, and you'll save money in the long run.
Next Meeting: Tuesday, February 24, 7:00 p.m., at the Hagerman Fire Department
"Every gardener knows that under the cloak of winter lies a miracle ... a seed waiting to sprout, a bulb opening to the light, a bud straining to unfurl. And the anticipation nurtures our dream."
- Barbara Winkler
It’s February, and the holidays are over! Christmas, the New Year, and Groundhog Day, yes, Groundhog Day! On February 2nd the groundhogs told us we have six more weeks of winter. How can this be? We have seed packets in the stores, our daylight hours are growing longer, and the daffodils have broken ground. Mother Nature has even given us a peek (just a peek) of things to come with 60 degree weather. But the calendar is never wrong; it is still February. For me, when I see robins, I know winter is coming to an end and spring is around the corner.
As we look forward to the renewal of our gardens, our adventures, and our lives, we have to keep in mind how we got here and where we are going. The Patchogue Garden Club has grown over the years and evolved into an organization we can all be proud of. The accolades are many, but the success is yours. Remember our motto, “Come grow with us”. I invite everyone to join a committee, pull a weed, or share a story. But most of all, become involved, and we will become a stronger service organization
Thanks, Guy
Please Note: The policy of the Patchogue Garden Club is to use member contact information only for club business.
Mark the Date
Tuesday, February 24, 2009, 7 PM, general meeting at Hagerman Fire Department. Guest speaker: Erik Meneses of the Eastern Bonsai Society on "The Art of Bonsai". Please bring your luncheon baskets and other contributions to this meeting if you haven’t already done so. You may also drop them at Georgia’s house, 168 E. Lakewood, Patchogue. Reservations will also be taken; bring check for $32 payable to Patchogue Garden Club or cash. Karen Ferb is collecting payment. Please also pay your dues, $15 for an individual, $20 for a family.
Thursday, March 12, 2009, 10:30 AM, annual “Think Spring” speaker, luncheon and raffle. Mediterranean Manor, tickets $32.00 For more information, call Georgia Dulmovits (289-0867) or Arlene Lamberti (289-3667). If you have a dietary problem, please let me know so I can talk with the Manor and get back to you. I wish to thank you all for your help in donating baskets, other prizes, and gift certificates. This year we have 24 members on our committee, and they have been working really hard. Great group! To all our members, thank you for your continued support. I hope to see you at the luncheon and the meeting.
Georgia
January Meeting in a Flash
Our new president, Guy R. Vitale, thanked the outgoing officers for all the hard work during the past year. He is pleased and proud to have been elected to serve.
Club members voted with great community spirit to again participate in the March 29 Patchogue St. Patrick’s Day Parade for which we have won trophies in the past. So far, the members who have signed up are Guy R. Vitale, Mark Jeffers, Diane Riviello-Voland, Sandra Franco, Bonnie and Fred Bossert, JoMiller, Georgia Dulmovits, Carla Steward, Arlene Lamberti, Mary Ann Tchinnis, and Karen Ferb. Join the ranks and end the parade with the corned beef and cabbage at the BrickHouse Brewery and Restaurant on Main Street!
Calendar of Events for 2009:
Annual Think Spring Luncheon, Thursday, March 12, 2009,Opening of the Terry Street garden, 9 AM Saturday, April 25, 2009; rain date Sunday, April 26, 2009 Annual Plant and Yard sale, 9 AM to 4 PM, Saturday, May 16; rain date, Sunday, May 17, 2009 Breakfast in the Garden, 9 AM, Saturday, June 6, 2009 Annual Garden Tour, Saturday, July 11, 2009, Harvest dinner, 3 PM, Sunday, October 18, 2009, Closing of the Terry Street garden, 9 AM Saturday, November 7, 2009; rain date Sunday, November 8, 2009, Annual Christmas House Tour, Sunday, Dec. 13, 2009
Who’s on first? Want to join a committee?
Contact the chairman.Newsletter, Karen Ferb; Web site, Kelleen Guyer & Karen Ferb; Design Committee for the Terry Street garden, Diane Riviello-Voland; Maintenance for the Terry Street Garden, Georgia Dulmovits; History and PR, Josephine Miller; Host/Hostess Committee, Arlene Lamberti; Nominating Committee, rotates yearly; Scholarship Committee, Guy R. Vitale; Membership, June Petruccelli; ‘Think Spring’ Luncheon Committee, co-chairmen Georgia Dulmovits and Arlene Lamberti; Plant and Yard Sale, Carol Tvelia; Breakfast in the Garden, Diane Riviello-Voland; Annual Garden Tour, Paula Murphy; Harvest Dinner, Guy R. Vitale; Christmas House Tour: Mary Ann Tchinnis; Summer Meetings in members’ or their friends’ gardens, please volunteer in advance for June, July, and August to Guy. Sign up at meetings or see the club membership list for contact info.
Serious Dirt from Richard Waldman
Saving ForestsHere on the northeast coast of the United States we have in the last few decades witnessed the disappearance of various tree species (e.g., Eastern Hemlock forests were wiped out by the wooly adelgid insect). Currently U.S. and Canadian researchers have noted trees in the western United States and Canada are dying quicker than in the past 30 years due to the rise in the average temperature in these areas. With an increase of little more than one degree, warmer temperatures are causing forests to be susceptible to attacks by pine beetles and other destructive organisms. Thinner and weaker forests are more vulnerable to wild fires and are stressed with prolonged droughts that hasten their demise. Various tree species at different elevations are dying faster than ever before.
Rather than just reporting on these new discoveries, scientists are now in the process of coming up with land use policies and are suggesting regulations to help forests survive. Reducing development in or near wild forest areas that are prone to fire risk will help these forests survive.
Are You Bats!?!
Ugh! I can't stand 'em. BATS! See? You too! There is something about them that makes you shiver and put your hands on your head and duck for cover. No love lost here. And what do they have to do with gardening, you ask? Just consider how many mosquitoes and other insects swarming in your backyard would increase to if it wasn’t for the bat’s voracious appetite. Along with bees and other beneficial insects, bats aid in the pollination of many plants. But now scientists are discovering that there is a deadly white nose syndrome that has spread in six northeast states (New York included) that has affected the bat population. The fungus that causes this syndrome makes the bat go through its body fat storage before spring while in hibernation, with the result that it leaves to search for food when the insect population is too low. A count of the dead bat population has been estimated in the hundreds of thousands. Researchers are considering a fungicide or a fungus killing bacteria that could spread from bat to bat to counteract this deadly problem. And who would have thought that you might feel sorry for a bat?!?
Right in Our Own Back Yard!
Following six months of research, nominations, and extensive voting by readers of the Long Island Press, Old Westbury Gardens has been named the winner in the Best Public Garden category in the Best of Long Island 2009 program. The garden was also named one of the world’s most beautiful by ForbesTraveler.com, “incredibly beautifully maintained and impeccably manicured”. Plan a visit after the April opening to celebrate their 50th anniversary. See more at http://www.oldwestburygardens.org. Take note too of the astoundingly gorgeous interior.
Members Page. Contribute anything you feel of interest. Want to swap? Want to buy? Want to sell? Share? Giveaway? Carpool? Here’s your soapbox, fire away!
From Betty Baran: The 27th Annual Spring Gardening School of Cornell Cooperative Extension of Suffolk County will be held at Riverhead Middle School on April 4, 2009, Ward Melville High School on April 18, 2009, and Bellport High School on April 25, 2009, from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm. This day includes your choice of classes from four different sessions, with information for every level of gardener from beginner to advanced. Topics include:• Fundamentals of gardening• Low maintenance shade gardening• Floral design• Home composting• Low-water gardening• Gardening with children• Vegetable gardening• Herbs, dahlias, hydrangeas, bulbs, roses, and many more!
All classes are taught by Master Gardeners and Extension Educators. Included in your fee are free soil pH testing, plant diagnostic clinic, plant sale from some of the finest nurseries, continental breakfast, delicious boxed lunch, and door prizes. The fee is $55 per person; early bird registration is $50 before March 6, 2009. The registration form with a full schedule of classes and their descriptions is available for download at www.cce.cornell.edu/suffolk or contact Caroline Kiang at 631-727-7850, ext. 337 or 345.From Ellen Scammon: Is anyone was interested in playing Mah Jong during the day? Call me at 447-9027 or as emailescammon@yahoo.com.
From Josephine Miller and Paula Murphy, by popular demand, the recipe for the Pine Nut Cookies with Rosemary they baked for the Christmas House Tour Hospitality spread two years running:
Ingredients
• 3 1/2 teaspoons coarsely chopped fresh rosemary
• 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted, plus more for topping cookies
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon coarse salt
• 10 tablespoons (1 1/4 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 3 tablespoons heavy cream
• 1 large egg
• Fine sanding sugar, for sprinkling
Directions
1. Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Finely chop rosemary in a food processor. Add pine nuts; pulse until coarsely ground. Transfer to a large bowl. Whisk in 2 cups flour, the baking soda, ginger, and salt; set aside.
2. Put butter and granulated sugar into the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Mix on high speed until pale and fluffy, about 5 minutes. Mix in oil. Reduce speed to low. Mix in flour mixture. Add cream; mix until well combined, about 2 minutes. Mix in egg, then remaining 1/4 cup flour.
3. Shape dough into 3/4-inch balls, and space 2 inches apart on baking sheets lined with parchment paper. Flatten slightly with fingers, and top each with a pine nut. Sprinkle with sanding sugar.
4. Bake cookies, rotating sheets halfway through, until edges are golden, about 13 minutes. Let cool 10 minutes on sheets on wire racks. Transfer cookies to racks to cool completely. Cookies can be stored in airtight containers up to 3 days. They freeze well too.
From Guy R. Vitale:
Two free websites that have great gardening information along with email only coupons are www.homedepot.com/gardenclub and www.learn2grow.com from Lowes. I think this is information worth sharing to get free gardening coupons. We all can all use some help saving money!
Timely Tip
Do you know that February is National Wild Bird Feeding Month? Celebrate by offering up tasty options for your feathered friends. If you're not sure which types of birds will be visiting your yard, your best bets are black-oil sunflower seed and suet, high-calorie energy sources for a variety of species. Cheaperversions contain large percentages of milo and rape seeds that most backyard birds don't like. Buy a somewhat pricier mix that contains plenty of sunflower seeds, millet, and cracked corn. Birds won't discard as much, your feeder won't empty as quickly, and you'll save money in the long run.
Next Meeting: Tuesday, February 24, 7:00 p.m., at the Hagerman Fire Department
"Every gardener knows that under the cloak of winter lies a miracle ... a seed waiting to sprout, a bulb opening to the light, a bud straining to unfurl. And the anticipation nurtures our dream."
- Barbara Winkler
Saturday, February 7, 2009
PRESS RELEASE - The 27th Annual Spring Gardening School
The 27th Annual Spring Gardening School of Cornell Cooperative Extension of Suffolk County will be held at Riverhead Middle School on April 4, 2009, Ward Melville High School on April 18, 2009, and Bellport High School on April 25, 2009, from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm. This day includes your choice of classes from four different sessions, with information for every level of gardener from beginner to advanced. Topics include:
· Fundamentals of gardening
· Low Maintenance Shade gardening
· Floral design
· Home Composting
· Low-water gardening
· Gardening with children
· Vegetable gardening
· Herbs, dahlias, hydrangeas, bulbs, roses, and many more!
All classes are taught by Master Gardeners and Extension Educators. Included in your fee are free soil pH testing, plant diagnostic clinic, plant sale from some of the finest nurseries, continental breakfast, delicious boxed lunch, and door prizes. The fee is $55 per person, early bird registration is $50 before March 6, 2009.
The registration form with a full schedule of classes and their descriptions is available for download at www.cce.cornell.edu/suffolk or contact Caroline Kiang at 631-727-7850, ext. 337 or 345.
· Fundamentals of gardening
· Low Maintenance Shade gardening
· Floral design
· Home Composting
· Low-water gardening
· Gardening with children
· Vegetable gardening
· Herbs, dahlias, hydrangeas, bulbs, roses, and many more!
All classes are taught by Master Gardeners and Extension Educators. Included in your fee are free soil pH testing, plant diagnostic clinic, plant sale from some of the finest nurseries, continental breakfast, delicious boxed lunch, and door prizes. The fee is $55 per person, early bird registration is $50 before March 6, 2009.
The registration form with a full schedule of classes and their descriptions is available for download at www.cce.cornell.edu/suffolk or contact Caroline Kiang at 631-727-7850, ext. 337 or 345.
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