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Macomb Master Gardener

E-news

February 29, 2016

Table of Contents News and Notes…………………………………………………..1

Macomb County Master Gardener Association……………………..6

Educational Opportunities……………………………………..9

MSU Extension:………………………………………………9

Other Educational Opportunities…………………………...15

Meadow Brook Garden Club………………………………..17

MG Education Share…………………………………………22

Volunteer Opportunities………………………………………..22

Single Date Opportunities……………………………………22

Ongoing Opportunities……………………………………….23

Photo Fun………………………………………………………...26

News and Notes

Save the Date! Master Gardener Banquet

Wednesday, May 11, 2016, New Location The Master Gardener Banquet will be held on Wednesday, May 11, 2016 at the

Italian American Cultural Center, 43843 Romeo Plank Rd., Clinton Twp., MI

48038. Gordon Lonie will be our guest speaker for the Banquet and will be doing his “Frogs and Toads”

program. It will be a ribbitting good time! Don’t forget that we will be honoring all those who have

received their Basic and Advanced Master Gardener status in 2015, as well as recognizing Lifetime

Achievement hours. The MCMGA will be awarding Project Grants at the Banquet as well! If you are

Enviro-weather class

cancelled for tonight.

Class is re-scheduled for

Tuesday, March 29, at

6:00PM

See Photo Fun for an inspiring

picture!

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one of those lucky Master Gardeners we hope to see you at the Banquet – PLEASE PLAN ON

ATTENDING! More details and registration information will be out in a couple of months. Please

remember there will be a registration deadline since we must give a final guest count at least two weeks

prior to the event. Tickets must be paid for in advance – money will not be taken at the door!

2016 Master Gardener Photo Contest –

Time to search for that special photo(s) to enter in this year’s contest. Two entries

permitted per person for the chance to win a $25, $15 or $10 garden center gift card.

Mail, or drop off, your un-framed/un-matted 8x10 photo(s), with a title and your name and

address on the back, to the attention of Mary Gerstenberger, MSU Extension Office, 21885

Dunham Rd, Verkuilen Bldg #12, Clinton Township, MI 48036. All contest entries must be

received by May 6th.

The photos will be displayed at the banquet and each attendee will receive one ballot to vote for their favorite

photo. The three prizes will be awarded based on the number of votes received; contest winners will be announced

at the banquet. One prize per photographer, and in the case of a tie, high card draw will determine the winner.

There are a few simple rules to keep in mind: the contest is limited to amateur, master gardener photographers

only; there is a limit of two photos per person; photos must have a garden/horticultural theme (no people pictures

please); a $1 donation for each photo submission is requested. Once a photo has been a prize winner, it cannot be

entered into the contest again.

Prize winning photos are maintained in an album at the MSU Extension Office and will be included in the Master

Gardener E-news. The album will also be on display at the banquet. Please pick-up other photos at the conclusion

of the banquet to save on return mailing costs. You need not be present to win.

Bouquets / Boutonnieres to: Dub Hearon was instrumental in developing the Healing Gardens at the Evangelical

Home of Sterling Heights. He has been the coordinator and inspiration for this

project for 27 years and will now be leaving us as his family moves to the Columbus,

Ohio area. These extensive gardens provide the residents, their families and friends

with the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors in a lovely garden setting. He will be

sorely missed by all who know him.

Thank you, Sharon Patrick

Do you know a Master Gardener who has been especially helpful or has jumped right in to do the job?

Let us know and we will recognize their efforts with a “Bouquet” announcement!

All About Food Conference: From Farm to Fork Registration is now live for the All About Food Conference: From Farm to Fork, hosted by the Macomb Food Collaborative. The conference will be hosted on Tuesday, March 15th from 8-3:30pm. The event will be located at the Macomb Community College University Center, 44575 Garfield Road, Clinton Township, MI 48038 A locally sourced and prepared lunch is included in the cost of registration ($25).

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Registration is available online at http://www.macombfood.org/register-for-the-conference.html, or by mail. Please check the Macomb Food Collaborative website for the best view of the brochure/list of classes. http://www.macombfood.org/ Check out the Volunteer Opportunities section to help at the Conference!

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Citizen Scientists Wanted to Help Monitor Frog

Populations (Taken from the St.

Clair Shores Patch)

The Detroit Zoological Society is offering southeast

Michigan residents the chance to join the local chapter

of FrogWatch USA, a citizen science program that

teaches volunteers how to identify frogs and toads by

their breeding calls and to gather and record data that

supports a national network.

FrogWatch volunteers choose from locations

throughout the tri-county area and monitor the sites

for several weeks. Their observations provide valuable

insight into whether amphibians in the region are declining or increasing or if new species are being found

in areas where they have not been identified before.

FrogWatch training classes for 2016 will be offered free of charge at the Detroit Zoo’s Ford Education

Center on the following dates:

Wednesday, March 2, 5 to 9 p.m.

Saturday, March 12, 8 a.m. to noon

For more information or to register for FrogWatch, contact DZS Associate Curator of Amphibians

Rebecca Johnson at rjohnson@dzs.org .

FrogWatch USA is a collaborative effort among the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and

AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums throughout the country. The program allows individuals and families

to learn about the wetlands in their communities and to contribute to the conservation of amphibians.

Save the Date! Saturday, September 24,

2016

Our Very First Macomb County Smart

Gardening Conference!!! Details coming

soon.

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Job Opportunity (The posting of job opportunities is informational only. It is not an endorsement for either the company or the Master Gardener that chooses to apply) Merchandising company currently staffing for the 2016 spring/summer season. We are looking for merchandisers to work in the outside garden department of major retailers. If you enjoy working with plants, working outdoors, and want to join a dynamic company with great opportunity, then we hope you might join our team! The merchandising position is a seasonal position with varying hours, including weekends and holidays, throughout the year. Hours are flexible and available every day of the week. Our merchandisers work in major retailers to assist garden center personnel in the merchandising of live nursery products organized by category. Duties include the unloading, moving and consolidation of live goods, as well as helping to set displays, execute special projects and resets. This is outdoor work performed rain or shine, hot or cold. Please read our job description online at masterpieceflower.com under the employment tab for physical requirements. The ideal candidate will have merchandising experience and/or plant and gardening knowledge, but training is also available for enthusiastic & hard-working individuals with a desire to learn more about the garden industry. Merchandisers must also have a positive & professional attitude, reliable transportation, home/cellular phone contact, valid e-mail address and be able to pass required background check. Compensation: $9.25/hr. Locations: 2474 W Hill Rd, Grand Blanc, MI Morrish Rd, Swartz Creek, MI 2591 E M-21. Corunna, MI 6001 Highland Rd. White Lake, MI 9515 Birch Run Rd, Birch Run, MI 4200 Highland Rd, Waterford, MI 29505 Mound Rd, Warren MI 1301 W Eight Mile Rd, Detroit, MI 21431 Grand River Ave, Detroit, MI (Redford)

Please reply via email. Include your name, number, and a resume. You should also indicate what area you are

interested in and send it to ldiehl@masterpieceflower.com . Serious applicants can also learn more and FILL OUT

AN APPLICATION to send with their resume by visiting our website at www.masterpieceflower.com under the

EMPLOYMENT tab. Information can also be faxed to (616) 878-3640 ATTN: LAURA. I will begin responding after

February 18th.

SINCE WE ARE GETTING AN ABUNDANCE OF APPLICANTS EVERYONE MAY NOT RECEIVE A CALL BUT, WE WILL

KEEP YOU IN OUR DATABASE FOR FUTURE OPENINGS.

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Macomb County Master Gardener

Association Check out the MCMGA website: http://www.macombcountymga.com/

All communication regarding MCMGA Educational programs or activities should be

sent through E-mail to macombcountymga@gmail.com

The MCMGA has a Facebook page! Check it out and like us at MacombCountyMGA

Membership in the MCMGA Join or renew your membership in the MCMGA! Annual dues are just $10. Checks should be

made payable to MCMGA. Memberships will be taken through March 15, 2016. The MCMGA

will pay the cost of the MMGA membership for certified Master Gardeners. Go to the MCMGA website

for the membership form (look under the News section) or take care of your membership at one of the

MCMGA educational programs. NEW – we will have membership cards for the MCMGA which

should be shown when you enter to attend educational programs or activities. Membership is from

January through December of 2016. All memberships need to be renewed/joined between January 1 and

March 15, 2016 to be included on the MMGA membership costs.

Do you know a former Master Gardener who might like to

be part of the MCMGA? They can now join our local

association as Alumni. Alumni can participate in all

activities, but cannot vote in MCMGA elections. Dues are

$10. Alumni are not certified Master Gardeners and

cannot join the state MMGA, but are former Master

Gardeners who still have an interest in the program.

Next Board of Directors Meeting The next Board of Directors meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, March 16, at 3:00 PM. If you have

any questions or concerns you would like discussed, please contact the MCMGA at our email address:

macombcountymga@gmail.com .

MCMGA Information Pages

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Grant Opportunity The MCMGA has 4 grants of up to $150 available for Master Gardener projects in Macomb County. Go

to the MCMGA website (www.macombcountymga.com ) and check under the News section for the

Application and Requirements. Applications are due by March 31, 2016, and are awarded at the Master

Gardener Banquet in May.

To register for any of the following events, please Email:

macombcountymga@gmail.com Please remember to bring your

membership card to all events.

Education Programming January-July 2016

Monday, March 21, 2016

“Spring Ephemerals” Advanced Master Gardener, Cheryl English will

present Native Wildflowers for the Woodland Garden. Tired of tulips?

Find Daffodils dull? How about trying out some of our very own spring

ephemerals! From Trout Lilies to Trillium, from the exotic to the familiar,

explore some native alternatives for the spring garden. 6:30-7:30 P.M. at the

Mt. Clemens Library Auditorium, 150 Cass Ave., Mt. Clemens, MI. Cheryl is also the owner of Black Cat Pottery, and will have a display of her wares for sale before and

after the presentation. Light refreshments will be served.

$5.00 to MCMGA Members +2 guests. $10.00 to all others.

Tuesday, April 19, 2016

“Companion Planting” Join MSU Extension Consumer Horticulture coordinator, Mary

Gerstenberger, as we take a look at the friend and enemy plants of the garden. The

Companion Planting presentation will cover what companion plants are, or are not; talk

about what makes good companions; and what services they provide to one another, as well

as the gardener. 6:30-7:30 P.M. MSUE Extension Assembly Room.

Free to MCMGA Members +1 guest. $5.00 to all others.

MCMGA QUARTERLY MEETING WILL FOLLOW THE CLASS

Monday, May 23, 2016

Pam Goros, from Wild Birds Unlimited, Macomb Township, will present:

“Who’s In My Backyard?” Ever wonder why a Robin cocks his head? Can’t tell the

difference between a Downy and Hairy Woodpecker? And, what does a Red Winged

Blackbird have in common with the TV show Sister Wives? Learn the answer to these

questions, and more fun facts about birds. 6:30-7:30 P.M. at the MSU Extension

Assembly Room. Free to MCMGA Members +1 guest. $5.00 to all others.

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Thursday, June 30, 2016

“The Iris Lady”, Advanced Master Gardener Betty Slominski will show us how to divide

all of those overgrown Iris in our gardens. This will be a “hands on” class, so dig up a clump

or two of Iris from your garden and bring them to class. You will be taking home your

divided, healthy Iris, and maybe even make a few trades with other classmates. If you have

“buggy” Iris, please bring them to class. 6:30-8:30 P.M. MSUE Assembly Room.

CLASS SIZE LIMITED. MUST REGISTER.

Free to MCMGA Members +1 guest. $5.00 to all others.

Thursday, July 14, 2016

“Viburnums” Join Advanced Master Gardener Cheryl English as she educates us on

one of the most diverse geneses of garden-worthy shrubs. Viburnums are also less

utilized than they should, due to that very diversity. Get beyond “garden” variety and

explore some other options with this charismatic group of plants and become

acquainted with some superb native species in the process. 6:30-7:30 P.M. MSUE

Assembly Room. $5.00 to MCMGA Members +2 guests. $10.00 to all others.

MCMGA QUARTERLY MEETING TO FOLLOW CLASS

Education Credits for MCMGA classes 2016 January 11, Growing Plants Successfully from Seed ------ 1 hr.

February 11, Children’s Gardening……………………… 1.5 hrs.

Fund Raisers!!

Support Your Local Garden Association!

Kroger – Go to krogercommunityrewards.com Register with you Kroger card. MCMGA’s

number is 76389 (although usually our name shows up) If previously registered, must re-register

each April.

English Gardens – We get a donation for every Flower of the Month card purchased.

Cannot just place order in the store. Recommend purchase by phone: 313-308-0500 ext. 116

(although usually the person who answers the phone without going to the extension is the correct

contact). OR THROUGH BRENDA, STERLING HTS. NATURE CENTER NATURALIST

AT 586-202-4584,

Or on website: www.adxlonline.com In both cases, mention MCMGA Fundraiser.

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Flower Power – Go to http://www.flowerpowerfundraising.com Click on Find a Group

(top right of home page). Type in Organization: Macomb County Master Gardener Association,

and state, MI (Leave City Blank) We get 50% of purchases.

If you are interested in purchasing a magnetic backing for

your badge (to replace a pin) contact the MSUE office at 586-

469-6440. Cost is $3.00. Payable by cash or check made out

to the MCMGA.

Educational Opportunities

MSU Extension: Don’t forget to check the VMS Event Calendar for more information on Educational

Opportunities

Enviro-weather: The Grower’s Friend (Re-

scheduled) Gardeners, Landscapers, Farmers, garden center employees and the general public

are invited to attend a free presentation on Enviro-weather on Tuesday, March 29

from 6:00 – 7:30 PM at the MSU Extension office, 21885 Dunham Rd., Clinton

Twp., 48036. This class will explore the Enviro-weather website and the ways it

can benefit residential gardeners, commercial growers and everyone in between. Enviro-weather allows

farmers, landscapers and green thumbs to narrow down their pest treatment time lines so they are making

the most efficient use of their time and money. Strategic application of pesticides, fungicides and

herbicides can also reduce potential pollution by reducing the number and amount of applications that can

affect natural resources. Enviro-weather is a weather-based pest, natural resources and production

management tool. Beth Bishop of MSU Extension will be presenting information on understanding

growing degree days and how to use the Enviro-weather website most effectively. Learn how to plan for

spray dates, keep an eye on fungal issues and plan for emerging insects through this unique program.

Please register in advance by calling the MSU Extension office at 586-469-6440.

MCMGA Thanks You for Your Participation!

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Vegetable Gardening: From the Ground Up This program will cover everything from:

garden soil to planning and planting the vegetable garden

seed to transplant choices

garden maintenance to garden tools

the A to Z of vegetables

At the MSU Extension Office, 21885 Dunham Rd., Clinton Twp., 48036. Use Entrance E.

Date: Tuesday, March 22, 2016

Time: 6:30-8:00 PM

At the Thompson Community Center, 11370 Hupp Ave., Warren, 48089

Date: Wednesday, March 23, 2016

Time: 1:00-2:30 PM

Program is free but please register in advance by calling the MSUE office at 586-469-6440.

Master Gardener Class The Master Gardener Volunteer Training Program will be held at the MSU Extension offices beginning

March 3, 2016. Anyone interested in taking the class needs to go to the Master Gardener website,

www.mg.msue.msu.edu to get to the registration for Clinton Township. Cost is $300 and class will run

on Thursdays for 14 weeks, ending June 2. Master Gardeners may audit any class for a $5 fee. Schedule

will be posted when speakers are confirmed.

Class schedule:

3/3 Introduction / Composting

3/10 Plant Science

3/17 Soil Science

3/24 IPM

3/31 Woody Ornamentals

4/7 Turf

4/14 Vegetables

4/21 Annuals & Perennials

4/28 Tree fruit

5/5 Small Fruit

5/12 Indoor Plants

5/19 Household and Nuisance Pests

5/26 Diagnostics for MGs

6/2 Volunteering / Water Quality

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2016 Smart Gardening Conference – Grand Rapids

Early registration pricing has been extended! Saturday, March 5, 2016 at DeVos Place—and yes, we’re back in the large ballrooms!!

2016 Smart Gardening Conference, Saturday March 5, Grand Rapids 8:30 am - 4:00

pm (Early-bird registration deadline extended through 2-26-16!)

It’s not too late to register!! This Year’s Smart Gardening Conference in Grand Rapids is packed with

great messages and presenters! Highlights include the latest news about the Monarch butterfly to

choosing the right plants for pollinators. Learning more about using native woody plants in our garden

designs will also help us be smart gardeners. Keynote presenters will teach about Smart Plants—that are

deer resistant and how to engage in Smart Gardening practices around our home from one of the Nation’s

finest Botanic Gardens. Click here to find out

more!! http://events.anr.msu.edu/2016GRSmartGardeningConference/

Highlights this year include two feature presenters:

Jeff Epping, Director of Horticulture at Olbrich Botanic Gardens in Madison Wisconsin will be our

keynote presenter in the morning. Jeff is a favorite here in West Michigan and relates well to our

Michigan climate. His design influence at Olbrich Gardens is captured in his stellar photography that is

sure to bring his Smart Gardening messages alive this year! Literally- I drool when I see his pictures!!

Ruth Rogers Clausen, a horticulturist trained in England, has been living and working in the United States

for many years. Over her long career she has taught and lectured widely. Former horticulture editor for

Country Living Gardener, she has written several books, including Essential Perennials and 50 Beautiful

Deer-Resistant Plants. Now what could be “smarter” than a deer-resistant plant? Clausen’s delightful

teaching style will make this presentation not only enjoyable but one to remember!

Agriculture and Natural Resources Week

Program/Schedule

The 2016 ANR Week Program/Schedule is currently being developed.

Programs are will added as the events are confirmed, bookmark this page and visit often for updates. http://anrweek.canr.msu.edu/sessions

For updates follow ANR Week on Twitter at @CANRatMSU or by using hashtag #ANRWeek or like ANR Week on Facebook.

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Spring Bulb Show – Hidden Lake Gardens Date: March 12, 2016 - March 27, 2016 Location: Hidden Lake Gardens Conservatory 6214 Monroe Rd, Tipton, MI 49287 http://hiddenlakegardens.msu.edu/

Step out of winter and right into spring, and experience the colors and fragrances of our spectacular spring flower bulb display in the Conservatory. Daffodils, tulips, hyacinths, and amaryllis, plus pansies, stocks, orchids, and other flowers. Open daily 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is $3 per person / Free to Friends of HLG.

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http://events.anr.msu.edu/event.cfm?folder=SmartVeg10120162

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Master Gardener College – June 17-18, 2016

MASTER GARDENER COLLEGE 2016 ON THE ROAD AGAIN!

Ready? Set? Mark your calendars for 2016 Master Gardener College On the Road to

Grand Rapids!

The Prince Conference Center on East Beltline will once again be home base for our two-day event, June

17-18, 2016. The theme for the event is “Dig It! Plant It! Grow It!”

What is on the agenda, you ask? Oh my, it’s just like the garden shop or bookstore — so many great

choices!

June 17 offers a selection of all-day bus tours, each with a different focus. Those not taking a bus tour

can choose from afternoon workshops at the Prince Center. Everyone comes back together for a stop at

the MSU Extension Grand Ideas Garden (the GIG) to cruise the annual plant sale and visit the incredible,

plant-packed gardens. The party will then move back to the Prince Center, where folks can relax,

socialize, have dinner and attend the Annual Michigan Master Gardener Association’s membership

meeting.

Bright and early, June 18 will begin with our keynote speaker, who will get our juices going in

preparation for an education-filled day. You will have an opportunity to select your preferred breakout

sessions from a wide variety of topics ranging from bees to water and lots in between. Beginning at 7:30

a.m., the Green Marketplace will be open for shopping—the next best thing to digging, planting and

growing! Everyone can always use another great book, gloves, pruners/nippers, shirts, lotion, soap,

garden art, plants (of course) and lots, lots more.

So, mark your calendar now, then watch for updates and begin to make those tough decisions—-which

bus tour, what breakout sessions, how many plants can I cram in the car for the trip home? And don’t

forget, contact your MSU Extension Master Gardener friends from throughout the state to get them on-

board so we can all connect at the conference to Dig It! Plant It! Grow It!

http://msue.anr.msu.edu/program/master_gardener_volunteer_program/master_gardener_college

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Check Out the Events and Educational Opportunities at Tollgate:

http://tollgate.msu.edu/programs

Other Educational Opportunities Don’t forget to check the VMS Event Calendar for more information on Educational

Opportunities

Friendly Gardener Meetings

Spring is right around the corner and time for the Friendly Gardeners meeting to resume

Friendly Gardener meeting Thursday, March 10, 2016 @ 7:00 pm

Location: Riverwood Community Church (Directions below)

Topic: Getting Ready for Spring by professional gardener, Gail Morrell: A three month break down (March-May) of garden tasks that will help make the upcoming growing season a bit easier.

Meeting Donation: To cover expenses a donation of $3 per meeting is appreciated.

Members & Guests: Please make sure you sign in when you arrive.

Refreshments will be served from 7:00 -7:15 during social time. Guests are welcome. Please fill out a

green information slip on your first visit. FACEBOOK: Search for Friendly Garden Club of Sterling Heights. 2016 Calendar: APRIL 14: Drought Tolerant Plants by Sue Grubba

MAY 12: Companion Planting by Mary Gerstenberger

JUNE 9: Donna Madonna on butterflies and plant exchange

SEPTEMBER 8: Garden tips & Plant Exchange

OCTOBER 13: Lawn Care by Gary Eichen

NOVEMBER 10: SOCIAL NEW TIME 6:15 PM

Directions to Riverwood Community Church:

12000 Clinton River Road, Sterling Heights, MI 48313

Located on west side of Clinton River Road, south of 19 mile

Next (north) to Farmstead Park

For more info contact: gailstraughen@gmail.com

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Yardeners of St. Clair Shores

THE YARDENERS OF ST. CLAIR SHORES…WHAT’S GROWING IN 2016

All Presentations are free and will be held at the St. Clair Shores Library located at the corner of 11 mile &

Jefferson

MONDAY MARCH 14 -7pm “HUMMINGBIRDS” PRESENTATION BY ALLEN CHARTIER

Allen is the research project director of Great Lakes HummerNet. He will describe research objectives of the

project, including how you can participate. Allen will provide helpful hints on how to attract and feed

hummingbirds along with hummingbird gardening tips. He has been banding hummingbirds and songbirds at Lake

St. Clair Metro Park since 2004.

MONDAY APRIL 11 - 7 pm “IF YOU CAN GROW IT IN A PLOT YOU CAN GROW IT IN A POT”

PRESENTATION BY THE YARDENERS… We are going to share the many aspects of container gardening.

Everything from seeds and vegetables to perennials can be grown in containers, let’s think outside of the “Flower

Box”. We’ll give you some tips on plant and soil choices. We will also demonstrate how to go about planting in

pots. Join us for this up close hands on experience.

YARDENERS NATIVE PLANT SALE – SATURDAY- MAY 21- 9:00 am to noon

Advanced orders encouraged, April 20 is the deadline to place your order for pick up on the day of the sale at the

Selinsky- Green Farmhouse Museum behind the St. Clair Shores Library parking lot, located at the corner of 11

Mile and Jefferson. This is your opportunity to introduce or add native plants to your gardens. When we grow

native plants in our own yards, we create vital Michigan habitat areas to help ensure the continued existence of both

plants and wildlife. Native plants are beautiful and they attract birds, butterflies and bees, all important pollinators.

YARDENERS 23rd ANNUAL GARDEN TOUR – SATURDAY AUGUST 6 – 9:00 am to 3:00 pm

Registration starts at 9:00 am at the Selinsky-Green Farmhouse Museum located behind the St. Clair Shores

Library at the corner of 11 Mile and Jefferson.The cost is $5.00 for adults, children under 12 are free. You

will view some of the lovliest yards in St. Clair Shores and get gardening ideas for your gardens from the

homeowners. Yardeners and Master Gardeners will also be available to answer questions. Take a few moments to

tour the Museum and gardens, also take a peek at the vendors wares after you register.

YARDENERS FALL PLANT EXCHANGE – SATURDAY – SEPTEMBER – 24 - 9:00 am to 11:00 am

The plant exchange will be held in the in the parking lot of the St. Clair Shores Library located at the corner of 11

Mile and Jefferson. Load up your vehicles with your extra plants and divisions. Bag, tag and drag your offerings to

trade or give away to other gardeners. No $$ is involved, come tailgate with your plants. Bring a mug of coffee !!

Please label all of your plants.

MONDAY OCTOBER 17 -7pm “REPURPOSING FOR YARD ART” PRESENTATION BY THE

YARDENERS

We have seen many gardeners on our tours that have created joy with items they have “repurposed” and placed in

their gardens. Get some inspiration, ideas and hints on making “Yard Art” from these creative people that have

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shared with us over the years. Learn about dolls made from pieces of ceramic, fairy garden furniture and other

“repurposed items “ for yard art.

The Yardeners of St. Clair Shores is a non-profit group dedicated to achieving beneficial environmental

results by teaching and practicing earth friendly gardening. Including the use of Native Plants, wildlife habitat

landscaping,composting and Integrated Pest Management minimizing the use of harmful chemicals. The funds we

raise go back into the community through donations, educational programs and planting projects. For more

information please contact Laurel Fowler at (586) 415-7110.

Everyone is welcome to attend Yardener meetings. There are no fees or dues to pay nor is membership required.

The scheduled meeting dates are February 8, May 16, June 13, July 11, August 8, September 12, and

November 14, at 7:00 pm. All meetings are held at the St.Clair Shores Library at the corner of 11 Mile and

Jefferson.

Please LIKE us on FACEBOOK …Yardeners of St. Clair Shores

Meadow Brook Garden Club Meadow Brook Garden Club event calendar can be found at:

http://meadowbrookhall.org/programs/meadow-brook-garden-club-programs/

Fine-Pruning the Landscape: Spring Cuts

The Meadow Brook Garden Club will meet Friday, March 25, 2016, at Meadow Brook Hall, 480 South

Adams Road, Rochester MI 48309-1904. Coffee and refreshments will be served at 9:15 a.m. with

program to follow at 10:00 a.m. featuring guest speaker Janet Macunovich who is a professional gardener,

designer, author, dynamic speaker and respected educator. Pruning is the gardener's main priority in April

so now is the perfect time to learn how to prune your trees and shrubs to ensure beautiful bloom, good

shape, manageable size, and the best healthy plants. With pictures and also real plants, Janet will not only

show you how but give you the courage to do what must be done! Guests are welcome. There is a $5 non-

member donation. Reservations are not required. For more information, contact 248-364-6210,

or MBHGCMembers@gmail.com, or visit www.meadowbrookhall.org.

APRIL 22

David Michener

Heritage Peonies: Beautiful Then, Glorious Now

MAY 19

Perennial Plant Sale

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MAY 20

Elly Maxwell

Harnessing Mother Nature’s Workforce—Beneficial Insects

JUNE 14

Open House

Potential new members are invited to experience the joy of gardening at Meadow Brook.

JUNE 23

Summer Member Event

All garden club members are invited to relax and enjoy the gardens

SEPTEMBER 23

Kristen Uthus

History and Culture of Japanese Orchids

OCTOBER 28

Keith Berven

Fundamentals of Growing and Caring for Dahlias

Troy Garden Club With spring knocking on winter's door, it's time for gardeners to schedule their early spring pruning, as

well as other tree-related tasks. The Troy Garden club will host speaker Gary Eichen onWednesday,

March 9, in a one-hour presentation beginning at 1:00 pm. Eichen is the bio turf and plant health care

manager at Mike's Tree Surgeons. His timely topic will be "Maintaining Trees in an Urban Forest."

What is an urban forest? All of the trees in a city. And what homeowner isn't concerned about those?

This year the Troy Garden Club is celebrating the 45th year of its 1971 founding. The group meets on the

second Wednesday of each month from September through June at the Big Beaver United Methodist

Church, 3753 John R, Troy, just south of Wattles. Guests, $7, are welcome and should sign in by 11:45

am. A light lunch will be served at noon.

Send your registration request via email to infoandideas@aol.com. For additional information, visit the

Troy Garden Club's web site, where you can also view a video of the club's 2015 garden walk. Go

to www.TroyGardenClubMI.com.

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Wildflower Association of Michigan 29th

Annual Conference:

Zooming and Zooming Out

The 29th Annual Michigan Wildflower Conference will be held March 6 and 7,

2016, at the Kellogg Center, Michigan State University. We are happy to

announce that Larry Weaner has been secured as a keynote speaker.

Larry is a nationally recognized, award-winning Landscape Architect with over 30 years of landscape and

installation experience, combining expertise in horticulture, environmental science and the traditions of

garden design. Our other sessions feature, among other topics, wildlife management strategies and tactics

for updating municipal noxious weed statutes to reflect ongoing concerns with our native insects. The

conference runs for two days and registration options include either or both days.

Amenities include lunch both days of the conference as well as shopping opportunities.

For more information and a printable registration form, visit the Wildflower Association of

Michigan website at http://www.wildflowersmich.org/index.php?menu=28

GROW WITH THE PROS

18th Annual Conference

Association of Professional Gardeners

Educational Opportunity

DATE: Saturday, March 12, 2016

TIME: 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

LOCATION: Waldenwoods Banquet & Conference Center, 2975 Old US-23, Hartland MI 48353

The mission of the Association of Professional Gardeners is to promote and develop the business of professional

gardening, establish practices that increase the integrity of the business, and coordinate resources for

professionally employed gardeners.

The conference is open to everyone with an interest in gardening. Our educational sessions feature two

nationally known speakers with roots in Michigan. The topics are: ”A New Spin on Old Favorites” by Susan

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Martin, “Hosta Virus X” by Chris Wilson, and “Plant Science to Help you Grow” by Joseph Tychonievich. Master

Gardeners can submit 3.75 education hours for the day.

Cost is $85.00 for members and $95.00 for non-members, and includes continental breakfast, lunch, and program

handouts. To register visit: www.associationofprofessionalgardeners.org. Registration deadline is Tuesday,

March 1, 2016. No refunds after March 1, 2016. For more information please visit:

www.associationofprofessionalgardeners.org.

Growing Great Gardens Saturday, March 12, 2016

8:00am 4:00pm

Join us a great day of learning, fun, networking and garden shopping.

You'll learn from four inspirational speakers: Scott Beuerlein, Joseph

Tychonievitch, Ed Blondin and Susan Martin, enjoy a brown bag lunch, have the

chance to win door prizes and raffles and shop for great garden goods in our vendor

marketplace.

Cost is $45 if you register by January 31, cost is $55 after January 31. There is an optional bonus learning

track for an additional $10.

Education Credits: 5 or 6 with the optional bonus learning track.

For more information and to register visit our website:

http://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/event?oeidk=a07ec1xc5d0f552233e&llr=wk4nr8bab

Location:

Wayne County Community College-Downriver Campus

21000 Northline

Taylor, MI 48180 Call Pattie Kehr for registration questions

In partnership with Taylor Conservatory, Taylor Garden Club and Wayne County Community College District-Downriver campus 313-715-8316 pk48180@yahoo.com

St. Clair County Symposium The Master Gardeners of St. Clair County present “Spring is

nature’s way of saying Let’s party!” (Robin Williams)

Saturday, March 19, 2016 at Cornerstone Church, 4025

North Road, Clyde, MI 48049

Doors open at 8:00 am.

Seminar: 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Registrar: Sandy Billings

Phone 810-367-3399

E-mail: sanderan51@yahoo.com

Early Bird Registration fee: $80.00

After February 19, 2016: $90.00

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Symposium Speakers:

Marta McDowell (Chatham, NJ) – Beatrix Potter: her botanical art, flora in her “Little

books”, and her garden

Tovah Martin (Roxbury, CT) – The Unexpected Houseplant

Matt & Tim Nichols (Nichols Nursery) – The Ornamental Obsession

Susan Martin (Holland, MI) – A New Spin on Old Favorites – New Perennials for 2016

Registration fee covers: all speakers, continental breakfast, lunch and snack break. Make check payable

to MGSCC (Master Gardeners of St. Clair County). Checks of money orders only, to be cashed upon

arrival in the mail – no refunds can be made after February 19. Mail registration to Sandy Billings, 99

Richman Rd., St. Clair, MI 48079, call Sandy at 810-367-3399; or Lisa Sharrow at 810-329-3722

Oakland County Master Gardeners:

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MG Education Share: Master Gardeners, if you watched a video, webinar or other online class that you feel other

Master Gardeners might enjoy, please send us a link and a short description and we will

share it here.

My cousin in Vancouver, BC. sent me this link. It is great. Pam Wilson Subject: English Country Garden

Wide screen and sound on for this one

Click here: English Country Garden…No 2….Jimmie Rodgers . - YouTube

Volunteer Opportunities

Single Date Opportunities

Macomb Food Collaborative, All About

Food Conference Macomb Food Collaborative seeks volunteers for 5th Annual All About Food: From Farm to Fork Conference on March 15th, 2016; 8:00 – 3:30 at the Macomb Community College University Center (note location change) Volunteers needed: 7 – 8:45 Early morning help: (3) People: You will be doing the arrival, display and other misc tasks that may pop up prior to the conference starting. Some vendors, presenters would like help with carrying items in. Room monitor:

(6) People: Introduce speaker, manage time, distribute/collect session evals. Arrive by 8:00 to get familiar with your room, receive monitor package, etc. Volunteer Room monitors attend the conference at no charge. You will be assigned the same room for the duration of the conference. Food/lunch: Table coverings on tables in AM. Signs will be done for each food table. Signs need to be put out on tables (will have a map done for you) before foods arrive. Water need to be set out. Due to timing, you will miss the second session. Milk needs to come from kitchen, start to pour – keep varieties separated. Assist food vendors as needed. Cleanup: Need to remove papers from rooms, pack up conference supplies, load vehicles, etc. MISC odds and ends throughout the day/as needed:

Thank you!! I may grab you as I need you.

Contact Jean Persely at Jean@Macombfood.org to volunteer.

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Ongoing Opportunities Please check the VMS Project listing for the ongoing Master Gardener Projects that need volunteers.

Need a great way to be involved? Think about becoming a Project Coordinator. We have several projects in need

of coordinators! If you think you might be interested, join us at the Project Coordinator meeting on February 16,

from 9:00-10:30. We will cover everything you need to know!

Gleaners Community Food Bank Spring is on its way, and the gardens of Gleaners Community Food Bank are about to open! Last year we

grew over 1,400 pounds of fresh fruits and veggies at our Washington Twp garden, 100% of which was

donated to local food pantries. We’re excited to grow even more in 2016, but we need volunteers to help

make it happen! Below are the gardening days scheduled for April. Please consider joining us in

growing food for our hungry neighbors.

Please note that garden days are cancelled in the event of rain, temperatures over 85 degrees, and other

unforeseen circumstances. We contact volunteers via e-mail in the event of a cancellation, so please send

us your e-mail address if you plan to volunteer. If you tell your friends and family about the garden days

(and we hope you will!), please ask them to also send their contact info. We can be reached at

gardens@gcfb.org.

Monday, April 4th 9am-12pm

Monday, April 9th 9am-12pm

Thursday, April 14th, 9am-12pm

LOCATION: The Washington Twp garden is located at 12700 Thirty Mile Rd, on the Southeast corner

of Thirty Mile Rd. and M-53. Volunteers can park along the side of 30 Mile Rd, in front of the

garden. Please do not go up the driveway to the DTE station.

St. Mary School Garden

St. Mary School GardenS are

Growing Green in 2016 with WAM and need your help!

Want to help students promote biodiversity, provide habitat for wildlife, observe and learn about

ecosystems and secure the future of native plants and animals? Want to help beautify the Mt. Clemens

community? Want to help the community learn about native plants and inspire citizens and businesses to

consider planting native plants in their landscapes? Then this project is for you!

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St. Mary School has applied for and will be awarded a garden grant from the Wildflower Association of

Michigan at the WAM conference on March 6. The garden grant will fund the purchase of native plants as

part of the school’s Growing Green Project. St. Mary School is looking for Macomb County Master

Gardeners to help with this exciting project! The school mission statement, to provide strong academics

within a faith-based community to prepare students for higher learning and to become more productive,

God-loving leaders in society, and the mission statement of WAM, to encourage the preservation and

restoration of Michigan’s native plants and plant communities, are both fulfilled through this Growing

Green project.

Growing Green Project Plan With funding from the Wildflower Association of Michigan and St. Mary School E-trash Recycling Event, St.

Mary School will purchase native wildflower plants, shrubs and trees from Wildtype Native Plant Nursery in

Mason, MI. and annuals that attract butterflies and hummingbirds from local nurseries. Students, staff, and

St. Mary School families will clean up the school grounds in and around St. Mary School and plant, water,

label and mulch the plants on school grounds on Growing Green Day, June 1. Once planted, plants will be

watered and maintained by St. Mary School students, parents and Macomb County Master Gardener

volunteers throughout the summer and fall months as plants get established. On June 25, St. Mary School

will share the Growing Green Project with the community as the school participates in the Mt. Clemens

Crocker House Garden Walk.

Many ways to Help

Help plan Growing Green Day and/or prepare gardens for planting on Growing Green Day, June 1

Instruct and supervise planting, watering, mulching, and labeling plants on Growing Green Day,

June 1

Educate and answer questions about native plants on Growing Green Day, June 1

Crocker House, Mt. Clemens, Garden Walk, June 25-volunteer as a docent at St. Mary School to

share St. Mary School’s Growing Green Project with the community

Help with watering and maintaining the gardens through the summer and/or fall months as the

plants get established

To help, please contact Jeanie Newlin at radnewlin@gmail.com/586-321-5492.

St. Mary School gratefully thanks WAM, the Wildflower Association of

Michigan, for their support of this exciting project!

News from the Tomlinson Arboretum

While still over two months away, those of you planning to volunteer a couple of hours at this years

Spruce Up, might want to circle the date on your calendars; May 7. More details will follow as the day

approaches. We expect to plant roughly 33 trees and bushes this Spring.

If you have any family or friends interested in joining the Friends of the Arboretum, or volunteering,

please provide my e-mail address. Once they contact me, I will add them to our ever-expanding Friends

of the Arboretum e-mail list. danelepo@gmail.com

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Greening of Detroit Citizen Forester Program Looking for Volunteer Hours? In an effort to grow our environmental impact, The Greening of Detroit is seeking leaders to join our volunteer Citizen Forester program to lead groups of volunteers during our upcoming tree planting season. This is a great opportunity to develop your leadership skills, gain experience managing volunteers, become familiar with different Detroit neighborhoods and meet others while working to make Detroit a greener place. Responsibilities: • Guide and oversee up to 20 volunteers working in small groups of 2-3 people • Lead tree planting demonstrations and reinforce quality planting techniques • Keep groups on task by recognizing what needs to be done and delegating responsibilities to others • Promote proper tool usage and safety throughout the planting Required Time Commitment: • Attend one full-day Citizen Forester Training (8 hours including lunch break) - This spring the training date is April 2nd • Attend at least three tree plantings between April and June 2016 (6 hrs./planting) The training can be used as educational hours and when you volunteer for a tree planting those hours can be used to meet your 15 hour yearly volunteer requirements For more information please contact citizenforesters@greeningofdetroit.com Click on the link for the application http://www.greeningofdetroit.com/files/5914/5459/7834/Citizen_Forester_Program_Application_Spring_2016.pdf

Clinton Township Japanese Garden Clinton Township has a Japanese Garden outside of their Senior Center. Representatives

from their Sister City in Japan will be coming to visit the garden in July of 2016. If you

are familiar with Japanese Gardens and would be interested in helping to spruce up the

garden at the Senior Center, please contact Brian Kay, Assistant Director of Parks and

Recreation, at 586-723-8077 or email b.kay@clintontownship.com as soon as possible.

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Photo Fun Have any pictures of your project that you would like to

share? Email them to me at:

mary.gerstenberger@macombgov.org

February 25 - Snow day today - still harvesting peppers! From the

looks of the blooms, there will be peppers in March, too.

Submitted by Kim Bachand

Fungus among us.

Submitted by Ann Britton