Spring has arrived - a time to be creative in the garden.
The Cowichan Valley Garden Club is celebrating more than 60 years at the Annual Spring Show and Plant Sale on May 10, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., at Duncan United Church. This popular event is always a highlight of the spring gardening season in the Valley.
In response to a growing awareness of the value of home-grown food, garden edibles has been chosen as the theme this year to attract a larger and younger group. Those looking for inspiration and wanting to gain some expert advice on the planning and maintenance of an edible landscape, will want to hear a special presentation, A Taste for Design, by guest speaker Jeff de Jong, Gardening 101 host, CFAX 1070 radio, horticulturist and garden designer. De Jong will show how to include edibles in the landscape and to create an abundant source of food for your family.
The flower show, showcases the best in Valley gardening, the judged flower show is an important part of the event. The dazzling floral designs on display are created by both novice and advanced designers, and added this year, a special section featuring edible designs; and equally impressive is the huge array of the best flowers grown by Valley gardeners.
The plant sale is a must for all green thumbs. Hugely popular, seasoned gardeners know to arrive early for the best selection. A wide range of excellent quality plants will be available. Special varieties of edible plant starters, grown by club members will be offered for sale as well.
The raffle in support of Providence Farm Therapeutic Program offers an exciting array of garden related products donated by the Valley business community. The proceeds from the raffle will buy new garden tools and equipment. Tickets will be sold at the event. The draw will take place at 2 p.m.
Visitors will enjoy wonderful baked goods, tea and coffee in the café from 10-11:30 a.m. and a delicious three-course lunch will be served from 11:30-2 p.m. For the first time this year, visitors will be able to purchase tickets to the presentation by Jeff de Jong in advance at Leaf and Petal or Volume One in Duncan. The price, $6, includes admission. You may choose to hear de Jong's presentation at either 10:30 a.m., 11:45 a.m. or 1 p.m. General admission tickets for $3 will only be available for sale at the event.
The garden club would like to thank Hudson's on First and Averill Creek Winery who are sponsoring the presentation by de Jong and the Cowichan Valley Citizen and Gardens West our media sponsors.
The editor of Gardens West will attend the event with a special display and a selection of magazines.