Clifford society hears about positive plant addiction

CLIFFORD

Who knew that plant addiction could lead to such an enterprising endeavour?

President Bill Cheeseman welcomed Ann Legault-Hieter and her husband, John, to the Clifford and District Horticultural Society information meeting held Jan. 25 at the community hall.

The Hieters encouraged everyone to recognize the ten warning signs of plant addiction. They have benefitted from their 13 year addiction by developing their compulsion into Avalon Gardens. That 150 acres of wind-swept glory at 5573 5th Line allows nature to blossom at its finest, offering the best in country living.

Dogs, cats, and chickens wander in the yard, flourishing right along with the flora and fauna that thrive in the gardens. A vibrant slide presentation showcased colourfully named primrose, columbine, clematis, poppies, grasses, roses, iris, bellflowers, hostas, yarrow, daisies, daylielies, conefloweres, hibiscus - Dragon’s Head, Pinky Winky, Snow Fairy, Purple Spider, and Slap Me Sassy.

Get to know the plant - maturity, size, colour, growth pattern, sun and shade requirements before planting.

During the question period, it was obvious that diagnosing stressors and suggesting remedies appears to be one of their specialties.

They invited everyone to their open house set for May 7. Tours can also be arranged by calling 343-5867 or ann@avalonperennials.ca.

A catalogue of their plants can be viewed on their website www.AvalonPerennials.ca  People can also check those ten warning signs -  number five: Your personal motto is “Had it, killed it, more than once.”

The annual convention will be held in Sudbury in July and a bus is being arranged.  Canvass packages will be given out at the hosta meeting in March.

Door prizes were won by Eleanor Gerber, Marion Wylie, Esther Hallman, Joyce Yost, and Isobel Hough.

Carol Lange, Elsie Grummett, and Sandy Cheeseman set out a variety of loaves and cheese to enjoy.