News
Now Appearing In A Yard Near You
Snowdrops are showing up in yards all over Belfast (and probably in other places, too–but it’s in Belfast where we have seen them). Galanthus nivalis reportedly herald Persephone’s annual return from the Underworld, where she spends the long, bleak winters with her husband, pining for her mother and eating pomegranates. Transported to Britain from the Middle East in the 16th century by monks, snowdrops have long been the impetus for rejoicing. Not only are they a sign that winter is drawing to a close, but they were an early source for galantamine, a drug used to slow the progression of…
Starting Spring
A group of eager gardeners met on Thursday, March 20th at the home of Lee Graham to learn the secrets of successful seed-starting. Lee and Sue Conard, seed starters extraordinaire, provided tips on containers, soil mixes, light, heat, and varieties of seed. While attendees learned that there is no single “right” way to start plants from seed, much can be done to avoid the inevitable pitfalls that might discourage a novice. Many left the workshop with containers planted and ready to germinate!
Maple Sugaring Time Means EdCom Is Busy!
Contributed by Kayleen Penniman, Educational Committee Well, it may be hibernation time for many of us but in the elementary schools’ garden programs, activities are awake and well. Food Core workers at East Belfast, Nickerson and the CASS school have been busy. Trees have been tapped at the schools that have maples and the schools are busy making and sharing fresh-churned ice cream. The garden workers are reading about Augustus Jackson, the first United States citizen to create a recipe for ice cream using rock salt. The fun part is being invited to help and taste the delicious treats. Students…