From presentations, to tips on gardening in ‘ever changing world,’ to chair yoga for gardeners, Orillia Horticultural Society event blossomed
NEWS RELEASE
ORILLIA HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY
*************************
The Orillia Horticultural Society (OHS) hosted its first ever Spring into Gardening Event on Saturday ,April 11 at Hawk Ridge Golf Club.
More than 100 participants were treated to Canadian author Lorraine Johnson speaking to Gardening for Birds, Bees and Butterflies: Habitat Gardening for Wildlife, as well as learning how to create an inspiring spring planter by local florist Celeste Koeslag.
Sean James was the third presenter and spoke on Bringing Back the Nearly Dead: Renovating an Existing Landscape.
Local vendors included the Mariposa Pollinators, Parklane Living, Huronia Rose Society and Elegance of Nature Floral Designs. The day included chair yoga for gardeners, garden trivia, door prizes and a silent auction.
Some of the key take-away points were to plant more native flowers, shrubs and trees not just for beauty and their ability to provide habitat and nectar for pollinators but also because they are well adapted to local conditions, which makes them more resilient to drought, temperature swings, and pests. Their deeper root systems also do a lot of “invisible work,” stabilizing soil and helping manage excess water during heavy rains.
The second key point is the shift in how we think a yard should look. The idea leaf litter, small brush piles and nurse logs can be intentionally designed rather than seen as “messy” reflects a more modern, eco-friendly approach to landscaping. When done purposefully, these elements can become a focal garden feature while supporting pollinators and other wildlife. With some of this foresight, pruning can shape shrubs and small trees into functional features and create privacy, define spaces, or even form natural archways.
“Our mission as a Horticultural Society has always been to educate our community,” said committee chair Holly wells. “I think we reached far beyond our Orillia community, far beyond just educating.
“Spring into Gardening was fun and inspiring and educational. An opportunity to meet and learn from some of the best out there, The event brought like-minded people together and encouraged friendships encouraged learning and how to move forward and protect our ever changing world,: said Wells.
All proceeds for the event will go back into the community. Look for the new pollinator garden signs at the gardens the Orillia Horticultural Society tends to at the Orillia Public Library and the Mariposa House Hospice.
The next OHS meeting will be Thursday, April 16 at St. Andrews Church, 99 Peter St. N., Orillia. Doors open at 6:30, meeting starts at 7 p.m. sharp! Membership is $20 and guests are welcome. We practise sustainability and lug a mug for tea and treats.
*************************
Comments are closed.