to read the September 2015 issue of the Horticultural Herald

H
The Newsletter of the Alumni Association of the Niagara Parks Commission School of Horticulture
ORTICULTURAL
ERALD
September 2014 • Vol. 42 Issue 3
In This Issue:
2
From the President
3
Graduation 2014
6
Graduate News
8
Legacy Garden
Grand Opening
12 Board News
13 From the School
16 Meet the Class of 2017
20 Highlights: Michael
Pascoe & Kenya Trip
22 Job Postings
23 Legacy Garden
Before & After
24 Test Your Plant ID
Coming Events
Legacy Prairie Garden
Grand Opening
NPC School of Horticulture
September 13, 2014
The graduating class of 2014 "reaches for the stars" with Superintendent Charles
Hunter (far left), Niagara Parks Commission Chair Janice Thomson (back left) and
Niagara Parks Commission General Manager John Lohuis (top right).
Congratulations to the Class of 2014!
Submitted by Charles Hunter ’95, Superintendent of the School of Horticulture
Another successful Graduation Ceremony was held at the School of Horticulture
on March 29th, graduating 12 horticulturists in the Class of 2014. The afternoon
ceremony was well attended and was followed by a reception in the Lecture Hall.
The Chair of the Niagara Parks Commission, Janice Thomson presented the
graduates with their diplomas; Mr. Wayne Gates, MPP presented certificates
of congratulations from the Province; Heather Skrypnyk, President of the
Student Association thanked the graduates for their involvement in the Student
Association, and Zenia Buzanko ’03, new President of the Alumni Association,
welcomed the graduates into the alumni family. Congratulations to the Class of
2014 and your graduation achievements:
Kyle BerwickSarah Burt
Andrew Christie
Brendan Hendriks
Griffin MangroveSarah McHattie
Fatima OmarJaana Paavola-Pearson
Lesley RevellKristen Sandvall
Jeffery WinkelmolenKara Wolowidnyk
Forget your membership? Did you know you can pay by credit card?
Officers for 2014
Honorary President: Bill Snowden ’58
President: Zenia Buzanko ’03
Past President: Charles Hunter ’95
Vice President: Jon Peter ’04
Secretary: Jon Peter ’04 (interim)
Treasurer: Karen Michaud ’84
Board Members
Publicity/Promotions: Rob Jacob ’11
Special Events: Kasia Zgurzynski ’12
Associates: Rob Jacob ’11
Membership: Cindy Maxwell ’12
Blue Book Manager: Karen Michaud ’84
Historian: Dylan Muileboom ’12 &
Melvin Dell ’69
Horticultural Herald: Melissa Spearing ’13
Social Media: Jon Peter ’04
Student Liaison: Heather Skrypnyk ’15
Executive Secretary
Karen Michaud ’84
8 Hahn Avenue,
Cambridge, ON N3C 2X9
Phone: 519-249-0381
npcsha@gmail.com
Next Deadline: Dec. 15, 2014
The Horticultural Herald is published
4 times per year. It is published for the
benefit of Association members. Views
expressed are those of the writers and do
not necessarily reflect the opinion of its
Officers or Board members. Letters on any
horticultural or Alumni issues are welcome.
Submissions may be edited for length.
Foundation Board
President: Jay Todd ’84
Vice President: Jay Thatcher ’92
Secretary: Randy Lidkea ‘67 (ex-officio)
Treasurer: Russ Boles ’68
Alumni President: Zenia Buzanko ’03
Board Member: James Smith ’98
Board Member: Jay Thatcher ’92
Alumni Association of the Niagara
Parks Commission School of
Horticulture Foundation
P.O. Box 263, Niagara Falls, Ontario
L2E 6T3
Alumni Association Mission Statement
The Alumni Association is a diverse team of graduates and friends who celebrate
their affiliation with the Niagara Parks Commission School of Horticulture through a
variety of programs and services designed to support its members, the School and
the highest professional standards of horticulture.
From the President
Zenia Buzanko ’03
Dear Alumni,
“What a lot of work!” visitors to the Botanical
Garden often exclaim. Well, yes! That is why we
have our careers and why this late spring Herald
has come to you now that it is back to school!
Many apologies and I hope you’ll take it in
stride. This might look like a step back but we
may just come out two steps ahead! It’s not just
a matter of being late but also a case of trying to
catch up to the challenging technology of our times. Newsletters, like all media
these days, are required to be “real time” and we want to move in that direction
also. The Herald is vital to the life of our Association and we aim to give you the
best we can. We will all see some interesting developments yet!
In this important issue we welcome our newest Alumni members, the Class
of 2014. Congratulations on your graduation, a notable achievement indeed.
We look forward to meeting you as fellow grads and hearing how you’re doing.
Good luck with your new lives and keep us up to date with any changes please.
Meanwhile back at the ranch, the Class of 2017 have settled into their first year at
the School. Another group of keen horticulturists in the making, you can get to
know them a little in this issue.
The Alumni Association, Foundation and Student Association have been busy
organizing our next big Alumni event, the Grand Opening of the Legacy
Prairie Garden on Saturday, September 13th. The Legacy Prairie Garden
continues to develop into a very unique addition to the Botanical Gardens
– a beautiful garden which also offers a dynamic educational experience to
visitors, and already provides a crucial way-station for butterflies and birds. All
contributors can be proud to have donated to its creation and together we will
celebrate the results on September 13th. Donations can still be made to the
Alumni Association of the Niagara Parks Commission School of Horticulture
Foundation, Post Office Box 263, Niagara Falls, Ontario, L2E 6T3.
Until next time, Zenia Buzanko NPD '03
“Gardens are not made by singing ‘Oh, how beautiful’ and sitting in the shade.”
~ Rudyard Kipling
2
Supporting our Alumni Association since 1947
Graduation ~ Class of 2014
[continued from the front cover]
The Guest Speaker selected by the graduating class was
Ben Stormes NPD '09, Curator and Instructor at the
School of Horticulture. Ben offered words of wisdom from
his educational and career path experience, and a final
assignment for every day beyond graduation. Components
worth 33.3333% each for a) being kind, b) acting with
integrity, and c) working hard (as Thomas Jefferson said,
"I am a great believer in luck, and I find the harder I
work the more I have of it".) Bonus marks were for always
remembering to say thank you to those who help you on
your way. The Valedictorian was Jeffery Winkelmolen,
selected by his classmates as being someone who exhibits
leadership and fellowship among students. Jeff delighted his
fellow graduates, friends and family alike with a humorous
metaphor where all his classmates were fitting roles in a tree's
biology. John Lohuis, General Manager of the Niagara Parks
Commission, provided closing comments on behalf of the
Niagara Parks Commission.
Above: After receiving their diplomas, the Class of 2014 stand
before their Alumni and families. From left to right: Jeffery
Winkelmolen, Lesley Revell, Fatima Omar, Brendan Hendriks,
Sarah Burt, Superintendent Charles Hunter (at podium), Kyle
Berwick, Andrew Christie, Griffin Mangrove, Jaana PaavolaPearson, Kristen Sandvall and Kara Wolowidnyk. Below: Ben
Stormes ’09 gave a powerful motivational speech as the Class of
2014’s chosen guest speaker. The floral display was spectacular
as usual, featuring Magnolia xsoulangeana forced into bloom.
The graduate awards ceremony took place after the diplomas
and donors and recipients are noted on the following pages.
The class should be very pleased with their exceptional
achievements and contributions toward making the School
and Gardens a better place during their three years.
We wish to extend our gratitude to the Alumni Association,
Foundation, and the many friends and industry associates
of the School whose continued support is recognized in the
awards and donations made to our graduates.
Congratulations to the Class of 2014! Please stay in touch.
3
Graduation ~ Class of 2014
Graduation Awards & Scholarships
Western Ontario Golf Superintendents Award: Sarah Burt
Awarded to the graduating student with the highest total
combined mark in the third year academic and practical training
programs. Presented by Lorne Fast, NPD ’89, on behalf of the
Western Ontario Golf Superintendents’ Association
Graduate Practical Proficiency Award: Sarah Burt
Awarded to the graduating student who has achieved the highest
mark in third year practical horticulture training. Presented by
Lorne Fast, NPD ‘89.
Niagara Parks Commission General Proficiency Award
Sarah Burt
Awarded to the graduating student willing to help fellow students
and made significant contributions to the School program while
maintaining high overall academic and practical achievement.
Presented by Lorne Fast, NPD ‘89.
Niagara Parks Commission Botany Award: Kristen Sandvall
Awarded to the graduating student who achieved the highest
total cumulative mark in: Botany, PlD I, II, III, IV, V, VI and Plant
Propagation. Presented by Darrell Bley, NCHT.
Norman E. McCollum, NPD ‘69 Scholarship:
Griffin Mangrove
Awarded to the graduating student who achieved the highest
mark in Landscape Irrigation. Presented by Norman McCollum
NPD ‘69.
G. C. Duke Equipment Award: Kristen Sandvall
Awarded to the third year student with the highest mark in
Principles of Turfgrass Management Presented by Norman
McCollum, NPD ‘69, on behalf of G. C. Duke Equipment.
Ontario Parks Association Student Award of Recognition:
Kyle Berwick
Awarded to the graduating student committed to the protection of
parks and environment and dedication to horticulture by respect
for green space and natural heritage. Presented by Jay Todd,
NPD ’84 on behalf of the Ontario Parks Association.
Knut Mattais Broman Award: Sarah Burt
Awarded to graduating student with the highest total combined
mark in the third year academic and practical training programs.
Presented by Jay Todd, NPD ‘84, President of the Alumni
Foundation.
Randy Lidkea, NPD ‘67 Canadian TREE Fund Scholarship:
Kristen Sandvall
Awarded to the graduating student who achieved the highest
combined marks in Theory of Arboriculture Practices and Urban
Arboriculture, Tree Climbing & Operations, Principles of Soils and
Advanced Horticultural Soils, and Plant Identification IV, V, and VI.
Presented by Darrell Bley, NCHT on behalf of the Canadian TREE
Fund.
Class of ‘82 Fellowship Award: Jeffrey Winkelmolen
Awarded to the graduating student who has contributed greatly
to school spirit and the general fellowship throughout their stay
at the School of Horticulture. Presented by Heather Skrypnyk,
President, Student Association.
C. H. Henning Award: Kristen Sandvall
Awarded to graduating student who achieved the highest total
cumulative mark in PID I, II, III, IV, V and VI. Presented by Heather Above: Class Valedictorian Jeffery Winkelmolen receives the
Class of ’82 Fellowship Award from Student Association President
Skrypnyk, President, Student Association.
Heather Skypnyk for qualities displayed during his tenure.
4
“Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage ...”
Graduation ~ Class of 2014
Seymour Howard Schott Memorial Award: Sarah Burt
Awarded to the graduating student who achieved the highest
mark in the Integrated Project. Presented by Jay Todd, NPD ‘84,
President of the Alumni Foundation.
Edward J. Hill NPD ‘48 Memorial Scholarship Award:
Kristen Sandvall
Awarded to the graduating student who achieved the highest
combined mark in Theory of Arboriculture Practice, Urban
Arboriculture, and PID V, VI. Presented by Jay Todd, NPD ‘84,
President of the Alumni Foundation.
Beatrice Catharine Martin Scholarship:Sarah Burt &
Kristen Sandvall
Awarded to two third year students who each have the highest
combined mark in Commercial Greenhouse Production and
Tropical Plants. Presented by the Jay Todd, NPD ‘84, President,
Alumni Foundation.
Graduate Recognition Award: Kara Wolowidnyk
Awarded to the graduating student who exhibited the greatest
amount of personal growth and achievement in the academic and
practical program over their three years. Presented by Sue Clarke,
NPD ‘79.
Barnsley-Pierce Memorial Scholarship: Andrew Christie
Awarded to the graduating student who exemplifies a love and
respect of horticulture and a passion to share that love and
respect with the community at large. Presented by Sue Clarke,
NPD ‘79 on behalf of the Barnsley Family.
James Allan Award: Kristen Sandvall
Awarded to the graduating student with the highest mark in
Computer Aided Design. Presented by Beth Edney, CLD.
Niagara Parks Commission Landscape Design Award:
Sarah Burt
Awarded to the graduating student who achieved the highest
total cumulative mark in: Landscape Design Process, Landscape
Design Fundamentals, Advanced Landscape Design and
Landscape Master Planning. Presented by Beth Edney, CLD.
Top to bottom: Fatima Omar proudly receives her diploma.
Plant Heath Care Award: Kristen Sandvall
Superintendent Charles Hunter congratulates the Class of 2014.
Awarded to the graduating student most dedicated to plant health Sarah Burt receives the Seymour Howard Schott Memorial Award
care over 3 years. Presented by Kyra Zeldon, NPD ‘02.
from Alumni Foundation President Jay Todd ’84.
“... to continue that counts.” ~ Winston Churchill
5
Graduate
Section Title
News
Left: as published with obituary on James Reid Funeral Home
website. Centre: Playing ball with Russell Nutley, National Film
Board of Canada photo by Chris Lund. Right: Class of 1957
graduation photo; Doug is centre of the back row.
Passing of Doug Fluhrer ’55
Reprinted from James Reid Funeral Home (Kingston, Ontario)
FLUHRER, Douglas Ronald. Retired Commissioner of
Parks & Recreation Corporation of the City of Kingston.
With heavy hearts the family of Douglas Ronald Fluhrer
announce his passing at 81 years of age on Friday, August 1,
2014, at the Kingston General Hospital. Loved husband of
Beverley Fluhrer for 59 years. Dear father of Mark Fluhrer
and his wife Kathy of Belleville/Kingston, Susan St. Clair
and her husband Todd, Patti Evans and her husband Dan,
all of Kingston and Todd Fluhrer of Mississauga. Papa to
Greg Fluhrer and his wife Margot, Steve Fluhrer (Melissa),
Keith Fluhrer (Jenny), Stephanie Fluhrer, Katharine St.
Clair and Ted Evans (Amanda). Survived by his sister and
only sibling, Sandra Smith of New York City, and special
uncle to two nieces and one nephew, Anna Blum of France,
Kristin Barnet of New York City, and Dr. David Barnet
of New York City. Doug was predeceased by his parents
Ronald B. Fluhrer (principal of Grantham Consolidated
and later Lincoln Centennial Schools in St. Catharines,
ON), and Leona M. (Moyer) Fluhrer and his in-laws
6
William R Scheetz and Irene L. (Hilts) Scheetz also of St.
Catharines, ON. Doug's work with the City of Kingston
spanned many years (1955-1991). He was a man of integrity
and a hard working & dedicated Department Head who
took pride in working for the citizens of Kingston, multiple
Mayors, Alderman/Councillors and Councils, and, most
importantly, pride in his multi-disciplined and dedicated
staff. Together they accomplished many worthwhile projects
and organized and followed through with special events for
the City. During this time he oversaw the acquisition and
dedication of more than 70 parks in Kingston, as well as a
forward thinking forestry policy that included plans and
execution to ensure Kingston s tree/forestry population
would be enhanced and protected for the future. He will be
missed by his many close friends and was thankful for their
ongoing support and love. Special thanks to the medical staff
and volunteers at the Kingston General Hospital for their
compassionate care. Friends will be received on Wednesday,
August 6, 2014 from 2:00 to 6:00 pm at the James Reid
Funeral Home, 1900 John Counter Blvd., Kingston. A
memorial service [was] held in the chapel on Thursday,
August 7, 2014 at 11:00 am followed by a reception in the
James Reid Funeral Home Reception Centre. A private
inurnment will be held at Cataraqui Cemetery at a later date.
As expressions of sympathy, donations may be made to the
KGH Auxiliary or to the Faith United Church, Kingston, in
Doug's memory.
We want to read about you! Got news? Please contact us.
Graduate News
Passing of Rev.
John Huether ’47
Reprinted from Brock and Visser
Funeral Home (Woodstock, Ontario)
HUETHER, Rev. John William
Lloyd. Passed away peacefully at
Woodingford Lodge Woodstock
on Tuesday August 12, 2014 in
his 92nd year. Beloved husband
of Hazel Huether (nee Goodyer).
Loved father the late Jane Godfrey, John David Huether
Above: Graduation photo of the Class of 1947 – John Huether is
and his wife Maddie, Mary Beth Huether and her husband
front row, third in from the right. Right: Current photo from Brock
Shawn Sage. Cherished grandfather of many grandchildren
and Visser funeral home website obiturary.
and great grandchildren. Dear brother of Pearl Miller, Mary
I enrolled mainly with a group of veterans in
Hall, George Huether and Lyle Huether and his wife Irene.
Also survived by several nieces and nephews. Predeceased
September 1945 and since I didn’t have any
by his parents William and Annie (nee Penrice) Huether,
military service as such, classmates awarded me the
brother Clarence Huether and his wife Anne, brothershonourary rank of Colonel. I think it was expanded
in-law Leonard Miller and Gordon Hall and sister-in-law
to Colonel Snoop since I asked questions and did
Eileen Huether. John was a graduate of McMaster University
some reporting for the school paper.
where he received his B.A. as well as his Master of Divinity
from Dayton, Ohio and spent his life serving within the
One of my first tasks was forking through Iris
United Church. Friends are welcome to join the family for
beds, between the Hornbeam vista of trees. ... I
a time of visitation at the Brock and Visser Funeral Home,
helped in the balling, burlapping and replanting of
845 Devonshire Ave., Woodstock, 519-539-0004 on Friday
specimens for the Lilac collection (near the present
August 15, 2014 from 2:30pm - 4:30pm & 7-9pm. The
Golf Course). Other projects were the building of a
funeral service will be held in the chapel on Saturday August
drainage sump and sodding a root house for winter
16, 2014 at 2pm. Interment in the Hillview Cemetery. If
desired, contributions may be made to St. David’s United
vegetable storage.
Church, or the charity of one’s choice. Online condolences at
Not all of the students had or could afford a car or
www.brockandvisser.com.
The Alumni Association would like to add that Rev. John
Huether ’47 was an Honorary Life Member, and official
Padre of the Alumni Association. His experiences at the
School, captured in the Garden School Days book, were
encapsulated with some of these storires:
“
Three of the most memorable and pleasant
years if my life were spent at The Niagara Parks
Commission School of Horticulture. Such a feeling
was fostered by hard work, good food, … amiable
associates and interesting lecturers.
even a cab. We might attend a show in town and
catch the Hydro bus going through to Queenston,
just before midnight. It was a relief when the
Commission bought a used army truck for the
School. Jack Kimmel or Jim Marlow normally
drove this, but occasionally Mary Proctor [the cook]
and I ventured into town with it after hours. It was
called the ‘Green Hornet’.
My graduation was on a sunny day, June 28, 1947,
with an outdoor ceremony in the Rose Garden.
Get your Horticultural Herald by email for new features!
”
7
Legacy Prairie Garden Grand Opening
Schedule of Events
10:30am
Registration
Butterfly Conservatory Terrace
11:30am
Student Association B-B-Q
1:00pm
Opening Ceremony
Master of Ceremonies
John Lohuis (NPC General Manager)
Niagara Parks Commission
Janice Thomson (NPC Chair)
Legacy Garden Steering Committee
Tom Clancy
Ontario Parks Association
President (TBD)
Alumni Association
Zenia Buzanko
Botanical Gardens
Charles Hunter
1:25pm
Unveiling of Donation Wall
1:30pm
Ribbon Cutting & Grand Opening
1:35pm
Donors Recognition Photograph
1:40pm
Garden Tours
1:45pm
Reception
3:00pm
Festivities Completed
NPD 61
NPD 03
NPD 95
(Superintendent)
Legacy Prairie Garden
Butterfly Conservatory Terrace
Join us as we gratefully acknowledge the generous donations and
efforts of so many individuals who contributed to the success of this
unique and inspiring new Botanical Garden feature.
September 13th, 2014 ~ 10:30am – 3:00pm
The Niagara Parks Commission School of Horticulture,
Botanical Gardens & Butterfly Conservatory
8
Can't make or missed the Grand Opening? Visit anytime!
The Legacy Prairie Garden
Top left: Jenny Kuri '15 working in the Legacy Prairie Garden.
Middle left: A tagged Monarch in the garden.Top right: Asclepias
incarnata (swamp milkweed) Middle right: Allium cernuum in
bloom in the Legacy Garden. Bottom right: Looking southwest
towards the structure that will hold the Donor Wall. Photos by
Bailey Wilson Class of 2016.
80 William St. W., P.O. Box 629
Harriston, Ontario, Nog 1Z0
Phone 519-510-TURF (8873) FAX: 519-510 8875
Check out the 2013 Before and 2014 After Photos on pg 23.
9
Legacy Prairie
Section
Garden
Title Donors
Legacy: Above $10,000
Trunk: $1,000 – $2,999 Leaves: $99 – $249
Sharon & Tom Laviolette
Gateman-Milloy – Mike Milloy
Lezlie & Bob Murch
Niagara Parks Commission
John Lohuis
Anonymous Land Owner near the School
Canadian Wildlife Federation/
Federation Canadienne de la Faune
Specimen Plant:
$6,000 – $9,999
Molok North America Ltd.
GRO-BARK
TD Evergreen Foundation
Landscape Ontario
Roots: $3,000 – $5,999
Niagara Parks School of Horticulture Alumni
Ontario Parks Association
W. H. Reynolds – Brad Thomson
Plantation Irrigation – Mark Hilmeyer
Anonymous
Trunk: $1,000 – $2,999
George Dalby
Cecile & Tom Clancy
Jerri & Hans Loewig
Hughes/Peacock Garden – NOTL
Harold Brain
Liz & Gerald Klose
Mike Pascoe
Melissa McKerlie
Frank Anderson
Anonymous
In memory of C. H. Henning
Niagara Falls Horticultural Society
Hugh McCracken
Alf Savage
NPC Class of 1980
Jodi Crooks
Mathis Natvik Inc.
Sawmill Creek Golf Course
Rain Bird Irrigation
Byran Norton Essery
Lincoln Garden Club
10
Main Branches/Limbs:
$500 – $999
Stan Kochanoff
William Snowden
City of Brampton
City of Cambridge
City of Guelph
City of Niagara Falls
Melvin H. Dell
Norman E. McCollum
Ian Bruce – Bruce Tree Service
In Memory of Dave Gower
Bruce Savage
Susan & Al Higgs
NPC Class of 1965
Mary Battaglia
Bill Browne
Gary Henderson
Scott & Melanie Haight
Ella & Buddy Andres
NPC Class of 2003
Windsor NPC Alumni Group
Clanmore Montessori School
Branches:
$250 – $499
Garden Club of Niagara
Fay Booker
Gerry Hutchinson
Harold Crawford
Anonymous
Kathy & Vic Hergott
Marg & Dan Costea
Chris Ziemski
Gord Rendell
Lorna & Arthur Haight
Al & Donna Satterthwaite
Cathy Swain
Tessa & Ryan Smith
Janice Thomson
Mark Dykstra
Amy Doan
Niagara Saw
John Russell
Alana & Ian Tapper
Cornelius Unger
Carrie Zimmerman
John Morley
Kaarina & Martin Moore
Anonymous
Anne & John Hannah
Blair Abraham Delazzer
Russ Boles & Kim Modesitt
Madeleine & Jay Kivell
Judie & Dave DeShane
John Curtis
Paul Misner
Audrey & Frank Purkis
Lloyd Syer
Gary Moore
Maripat Thompson
In memory of Denis McQuestion
George Finnigan
Jay Todd
Richard Helmer
Zenia Buzanko
Mark Burkett
Janet Snaith
Patricia & Weldon Schmahl
Frank Schortinghuis
Anna Legatt
Michelle Goff
Robert Dingwall
Phase 2 is coming. For info, npcsha@gmail.com
Legacy Prairie Garden Donors
Legacy Prairie Garden Update
Submitted by Tom Clancy ’61
A huge thank you to the Niagara Parks Commission and in
particular the Canadian Wildlife Federation through Ken
Beattie for donations that topped up our Phase 2 target.
Ken Beattie is providing a Legacy Donation through cash
and in-kind materials needed for the next phase. John Lohuis
also made a second donation to move him to the Trunk
category showing both his and the Commission’s strong
support. Other recent donations made in 2014 are: Harold
Crawford, Michelle Goff, Arthur and Lorna Haight, Anna
Leggat, Frank Schortinghuis and Robert Dingwall.
The entrance Acknowledgement Feature is being inscribed
with all the donour’s names along with a description of the
project. The Council Circle Bench is being scheduled with
a “hands on” learning opportunity/project for the students,
which adds another important dimension.
The garden is doing well and growing in nicely although
heavy rain issues in the summer provided obstacles to a
completed planting. We look forward to providing more
information at the Grand Opening event.
NPC's Legacy Prairie Garden
Receives Donation from School
NPC Official Media Release ~ May 27, 2014
The Niagara Parks Commission’s (NPC) School of
Horticulture accepted a gracious donation from the
Clanmore Montessori School in Oakville, Ontario on
Wednesday, May 26th.
The Oakville school raised $607.00 for NPC’s Legacy
Garden, located adjacent to the School of Horticulture and
Butterfly Conservatory to ensure the lasting appreciation
of butterflies within horticulture practices. The Clanmore
Montessori School fundraiser was initiated by fourth grade
students Elli Barr and Olivia Podivinski, after Elli learned
that Monarch butterfly habitats are being threatened.
Elli and Olivia learned that by maintaining waysations
— areas that contain plants to support caterpillars and
butterflies — Monarchs will thrive. “I saw a newspaper
article talking about Monarchs and I wanted to do
something to help the Monarchs find food like milkweed,
which is important for them” said nine-year-old Elli. The
young girls worked with their school representative, Grace
Kidney to host fundraisers including a talent day, pyjama
day, a bake sale and a raffle to raise money for Monarch
preservation. “We were looking for a place that cared about
Monarchs and my teacher told us about the Niagara Parks
Commission” noted Elli.
The girls visited the Niagara Parks Commission School
of Horticulture and Butterfly Conservatory and planted
milkweed in the Legacy Gardens to create a large waystation
to help in the development and preservation of Monarch
and other butterfly species. The Legacy Gardens is developed
by School of Horticulture Alumni and contains native
plants and species from the Niagara region. After extensive
planning and design, Legacy Gardens is slated to officially
open in fall 2014.
“This is a unique and very selfless act these young ladies
have done to commit to the future of Monarch butterflies in
Niagara and we thank them endlessly for their interest and
appreciation in these unique species” said Charles Hunter,
Superintendent of the School of Horticulture, Butterfly
Conservatory & Botanical Gardens.
Did you attend the Grand Opening? Please send comments!
11
Section
Board News
Title
From the Desk of the Secretary
Submitted by Karen Michaud ’84
Here we are at the end of the summer.
Memberships were due on March 1st.
At this time, we have only 76 paid graduate members.
I am sure some of you have put your membership form
somewhere safe and it sat there waiting for you to send it in.
Now that the really busy season is past, you will have time to
get to it.
Renewal forms are available on our website, or call or email
me and payment can be made by credit card over the phone.
Please take the time to send in the contact information form,
even if you are not paying your dues at this time, so we can
make the changes in the Blue Book.
new baby, or perhaps you know of a fellow graduate who is
celebrating an exciting honour, please contact me and I will
direct the information to the appropriate board member. As
well, don’t forget our friends who are ill.
Karen Michaud ’84 Executive Secretary
8 Hahn Avenue Cambridge ON, N3C 2X9
Phone: 519-249-0381
Email: npcsha@gmail.com
Horticultural Herald
Submitted by Melissa Spearing '13
My apologies to you if you have been eagerly anticipating
this issue. The busy and unsuaul spring and summer of 2014
has delayed our efforts but it all comes together at last! It has
become apparent the time, skills and organizational effort
required of those volunteers involved with the Horticultural
Herald is great. We are in discussions about making the
Horticultural Herald more real-time, with the possibility
of a yearbook summary of important happenings for
those interested. Stay tuned and help out your Alumni by
maintaining your membership and requesting the Herald by
email for printing savings.
If you are a paid member and have an email address, you will
receive 2 copies of the Horticultural Herald, one mailed to
you and one emailed, unless you specify that you only want
an emailed copy. Help us save some money and enjoy your
beautiful colour edition, emailed to a computer near you.
Please email me with your request to receive only an emailed
copy.
We are always in need of content, stories, travel reports and
photos of happenings in your professional and personal lives.
As you know, we keep a list of employment opportunities;
If you have a story to tell, please send content to Karen or
please let me know if you see anything out there so we can
Melissa at npcsha@gmail.com.
post it on our website or pass it on to interested paid up
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remembered, or as challenge to your classmates and fellow Alumni.
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From the School
Ben Stormes Tree Dedication
Upper: The students and staff at the Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens and School of Horticulture at the tree dedication ceremony in
June for departing Curator and Instructor, Ben Stormes '09 (left of the new tree).
Lower: The dedication tree, Cedrus deodora 'Karl Fuchs', donated by Laura Caddy '11, in its permanent location next to the Niagara
Parks Botanical Gardens sign bed.
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From the School
allows. One of the more recent additions to the OSA is a
planting of three Pinus bungeana (accession no. 900143*B),
a welcome addition as the pines were previously represented
by a single Pinus nigra and a stand of Pinus strobus in this
garden area. Given the ability of many of the pines to grow to
impressive proportions and carry themselves in a stately and
dignified manner, it seems fitting to include more of them in
the OSA.
Pinus bungeana, commonly known as the lacebark pine,
is noted as being one of the most spectacular pines in the
landscape. This bold statement, as well as the common
name, is due to the richly coloured exfoliating young bark
of this species. In maturity it tends to develop silver and
white trunks that rival any of the birch in their intensity, and
stand in stark contrast to the deep green evergreen needles.
The bark character really does put it into a class of its own,
and it has been suggested by many authors to be the most
beautiful bark of any conifer. It is fitting that these trees
have been planted close to the main pathway to the Butterfly
Conservatory, offering a means for those passing by to
become intrigued and curious about the plants that surround
them. I have seen this happen on numerous occasions in the
garden, and am happy to see these trees functioning as a way
for those who might not normally take the time to observe
and marvel at the plants around them to begin engaging the
garden in this way.
One of three Pinus bungeana (lacebark pine) specimens planted
on the path to the Butterfly Conservatory. Subordination pruning
helps maintain a central leader. Photo by Melissa Spearing '13.
Highlights from the Collections
Submitted by Ben Stormes ’09
The Niagara Parks Botanical Garden and School of
Horticulture contains many areas where one can take in the
beauty and curiosity of the plant world. While each area
has its own character and merits, it is the Old Specimen
Area, known more simply as the OSA, that contains some
of the most majestic specimens on site. Despite the name
“Old Specimen Area”, not all specimens here are all that
old. Indeed, one of the challenges (and opportunities) when
dealing with living collections is that garden areas will
continually need additions of young, fresh material as space
14
Pinus bungeana has a long history as an important
component of the cultivated landscape, with a significant
presence in the temple gardens of China. It was from the
temple gardens of Beijing that Aleksandr Von Bunge first
collected material of this species in 1831, later sending
preserved specimens to be scientifically described and
legitimately published as a new species by colleague Joseph
Zaccarini in 1847. It was Robert Fortune, an important
botanist, plant explorer and traveller from Scotland, who
first introduced live material to the European horticultural
world in 1846. Over 150 years later Pinus bungeana is still
relatively rare in cultivation, generally being found only in
cemeteries, estates, private collector gardens, or botanical
gardens. While relatively easy to germinate from seed, the
exceedingly slow growth rate of young trees may play a part
in its relative scarcity in the horticultural trade. It is noted
that while mature trees may grow between 6–12” a year,
young seedlings are much slower growing, with accounts of
Got a big tree story to share? We have the space!
From the School
2-year-old seedlings less than 3” tall, and 9-year-old saplings
standing around 27” noted from the Arnold Arboretum’s
propagation efforts. Bark appeal aside, this slow juvenile
growth rate is another reason to appreciate this species when
it is encountered in the landscape.
Native to a wide range of mountain regions of China, Pinus
bungeana is perfectly hardy in USDA zones (4)5 – 7. It
requires average to well-drained soil moisture conditions,
and full sun exposure to thrive and grow to its full 50–75’
height. The natural growth habit of this species is often
multi-trunked, and young specimens appear to be more
shrubby than tree-like. As specimens mature, weaker
trunks are often shed and more dominant leaders are
formed, though many remain multi-trunked into maturity.
Darrell Bley, Curator of Woody Plants at the Niagara Parks
Botanical Garden and School of Horticulture, has been
working diligently with student crews to establish strong
central leaders on the Pinus bungeana in the OSA. These
efforts have been successful to date, and the young trees
now stand as single-trunk specimens at a height of over 10
feet. Another specimen (accession no. 980348*A) of this
incredible plant is present in the Pinaceae collection of the
arboretum, this time displaying the more typical multi-stem
habit of the species. This multi-stem specimen did lose limbs
in the winter ice storms of 2013-2014, and breakage under
snow and ice is noted as one of the potential issue with this
otherwise problem free species. The specimens in the OSA
that received subordination pruning, however, were not
damaged during winter ice storms. These three trees stand
proud, and like many fine things, will continue to come into
their own with age. Next time you are in the garden be sure
to take a moment to find these three trees, stop and admire
their beauty, and ponder their future as stately members of
the Old Specimen Area.
Below: Photo from 1907 at the Yen-fu-tse temple of a specimen
16' in circumference, 6' above the ground. Photo by Frank N.
Meyer, in Archives of the Arnold Arboretum. Bottom: Another
specimen in the Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens Arboretum
showing both the lacy, peeling bark and multiple trunks the
species is prone to have. Photo by Melissa Spearing '13.
References:
Bitner, Richard L., Conifers for Gardens: An Illustrated
Encyclopedia. Timber Press. 240-242. 2007
Dirr, Michael A., Manual of Woody Landscape Plants.
Stipes Publishing L.L.C. 730. 1998
Nicholson, Robert G., Pinus bungeana Zaccarini: A
Ghostly Pine. Arnoldia 48(2): 21-38. 1988
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15
Class of 2017
The Class of 2017 (left to right): Jacob Hueglin, Remi Woodruff,
Sid Johnson, C. J. Plummer, Jordan Morgan, Peter Karas, Steve
Boot, Celia Le Maistre-Matthys, Taylor Parks, Carmen Grey,
Samantha Farnham and Chris Green.
Introducing the Class of 2017
Submitted by Bailey Wilson Class of 2016
The Niagara Parks Commission School of Horticulture
welcomes a new class with a tradition of open arms and
grilling them for their inspiration and intentions in choosing
our world-class training program. As Vice President of the
Student Association, I am very pleased to welcome a batch of
new faces and hands to work alongside our tight-knit group.
I present this energetic and diverse group in order of those
who come from our horticulturally-rich backyard to further
afield. Without further ado, here is the Class of 2017.
plants made me really happy as a child. I took a horticulture
class in the 11th and 12th grade with Darren Schmahl which
really got me motivated to pursue it for post secondary.
Q: My favourite garden is ... A: Schönbrunn Palace.
Q: My favourite past-time is ... A: I really enjoy being
outdoors and observing/exploring places on my own.
Q: My favourite type of plant is ... A: Tropicals.
Q: One thing on my bucket list is ... A: To conquer my fear
of heights. Luckily there are lots of tall trees in the world!
Q: A memory with a tree ... A: In the forest behind my home
there was a tree that had fallen over and caught itelf the the
'V' of another tree. I'd climb it all the time with my friends
and it was about 15 feet off the ground at the time.
Peter Karas ~ Niagara Falls, Ontario
Samantha Farnham ~ Vineland, Ontario
Q: My favourite tool is ... A: the Hori-hori for now.
Q: My favourite tool is ... A: My secateurs. I would never go
to work without them.
Q: I think plants can save the world ... A: Through the many
beneficial things they have to offer to the environment and
the things around them.
Q: How I became interested in horticulture ... A: My father
was raised on a small farm in Poland and looking at all the
16
Q: I think plants can save the world ... A: I think that plants
are going to become increasingly important as time passes,
but one way that plants will save the world is being able to
use them for more than personal use. We usually only think
of plants when it comes to humans. We eat them, they keep
Q: What kinds of socks does a gardener wear?
Class of 2017
our air clean and we make them into products we use. Now
it is becoming increasingly important to figure out natural
ways to keep the earth healthy by fighting against carbon,
contamination, and climate change.
Q: My favourite type of plant is ... A: Ornamental grasses
and woody plants.
Q: One thing on my bucket list is ... A: Visit the big old tree
with my friend when we’re old (see the memory with a tree).
Q: How I became interested in horticulture ... A: I have been
interested in it since I was very young. My family has always Q: A memory with a tree ... A: Whenever I hung out with
made me a part of their gardening, which has only made my my old friend, me and him would walk or bike to this
random field that had a big old tree in the middle of it. On
interest continually grow.
that tree, there was a tire swing tied on to it. So we would
Q: My favourite garden is ... A: The Central Experimental
take turns on it and when we got tired we sit down with our
backs to the tree on opposite sides. And just relax watching
Farm in Ottawa, Ontario.
the clouds go by.
Q: My favourite past-time is ... A: Anything that is creative.
C. J. Plummer ~ Mississauga, Ontario
Q: My favourite type of plant is ... A: If I really had to choose
Q: My favourite tool is ... A: Hand saw.
I would have to say flowering shrubs and/or perennials.
Q: One thing on my bucket list is ... A: Travelling. I want to
see as much of the world as I can.
Q: I think plants can save the world ... A: By teaching people
how to grow edible plants so that we can stop world hunger.
Q: A memory with a tree ... A: When my grandmother
passed away, we planted a Hydrangea standard in our
backyard to remember her. It was in a part of a garden bed
we had just made, so there was nothing but soil around it.
Within a couple of days little flowers started sprouting up
around it, which made a hard loss feel a little more special.
Q: How I became interested in horticulture ... A: I have
always wanted to design, build and run my own restaurant
and my landscaping teacher gave me some advice and
since then I have made a model of the way I would like my
restaurant to look but gained a huge interest in horticulture
to learn how certain plants grow and how to take care of
them so I can use some for food.
Remi Woodruff ~ Ridgeway, Ontario
Q: My favourite tool is ... A: Secateurs.
Q: I think plants can save the world ... A: Plants already save
the world every day. We cannot live without them because
everything works together. Plants, animals, bacteria, fungi,
etc.
Q: How I became interested in horticulture ... A: When
I was in grade 9 I wanted to be an architect then realized
I didn’t have the grades to go to university. So I then
decided on landscape architecture and researched courses
I could take. I took the high school program that operates
at the botanical gardens and found that I really enjoyed
horticulture.
Q: My favourite garden is ... A: My Noni’s gardens.
Q: My favourite garden is ... A: Niagara Parks Botanical
Gardens.
Q: My favourite past-time is ... A: Landscape designs and
gardening!
Q: My favourite type of plant is ... A: Roses and tropical
plants.
Q: One thing on my bucket list is ... A: To travel all around
the world.
Q: A memory with a tree ... A: When I was younger my
cousins and I climbed a huge tree and I remember looking
around and thinking about how much I could see and big
the world was even though I only saw a very small part.
Q: My favourite past-time is ... A: Outdoor activities if its
nice outside. If not, listen to music.
A: Garden hose!
17
Class of 2017
Jacob Hueglin ~ New Dundee, Ontario
Taylor Parks ~ Uxbridge, Ontario
Q: My favourite tool is ... A: My favourite landscape tool is
actually a machine. Skidsteers are my favourite and probably
one of the most useful machines for landscape construction.
One can use it for moving bulk amounts of product such as
gravel, soil, or sand. They are also very effective and efficient
when it comes to the amount of time needed to set a grade of
a property or driveway.
Q: My favourite tool is ... A: My brain.
Q: I think plants can save the world ... A: Through their
medicinal properties, from helping heal small cuts to life
threatening diseases.
Q: How I became interested in horticulture ... A: My
Gramps and my Mama dearest have shared their love of
gardens with me for as long as I can remember, and a former
boss and graduate of this wonderful school helped me realize
I could make a career out of it. Thanks Ian Tapper!
Q: How I became interested in horticulture ... A: When I
took it in grade eleven because i thought it would be an easy
course to pass and ended up really enjoying it.
Q: I think plants can save the world ... A: Because they have
the power to push people to cooperate with one another
to achieve mutual goals that benefit the world as a whole.
Everything from sustainable food production, to restoration
of habitats and wildlife rehabilitation, etc.
Q: My favourite garden is ... A: My Gramps’ tomato garden.
Q: My favourite garden is ... A: Niagara Parks Botanical
Gardens.' Rock Garden.
Q: My favourite past-time is ... A: Playing rugby, exploring
the outdoors, and listening to music.
Q: My favourite past-time is ... A: Snowboarding.
Q: My favourite type of plant is ... A: Tough to choose, today
vegetables shall be my favourite.
Q: One thing on my bucket list is ... A: I've always wanted to
buy an old mail truck, turn it into a camper, drive it out to
BC, and then down to California. Make the trip last a year.
Steve Boot ~ Richmond Hill, Ontario
Q: One thing on my bucket list is ... A: I don’t really have a
bucket list. I like to impulsively go for adventures as I think
of them or when the opportunity presents itself, rather than
pocketing them for later.
Q: My favourite tool is ... A: The Walker Mower (best brand). Q: A memory with a tree ... A: The only specific memory that
comes to mind regarding a tree is of every single willow tree
Q: I think plants can save the world ... A: Because I believe
ever to cross my path becoming Grandmother Willow from
that trees do, and will continue to, clear the air of pollution.
Pocahontas.
Q: How I became interested in horticulture ... A: My father
Sid Johnson ~ Colonial Beach, Virginia
owns my future business, and I grew up around it.
Q: My favourite tool is ... A: My hori-hori knife.
Q: My favourite garden is ... A: My future garden. It resides
right beside my surfing beach in Hawaii.
Q: I think plants can save the world ... A: Because plants are
the world.
Q: My favourite past-time is ... A: I enjoy watching TV and
everything sports-related.
Q: How I became interested in horticulture ... A: I have lived
on a farm my whole life.
Q: My favourite type of plant is ... A: The Weeping Beech is a
truly marvelous plant.
Q: My favourite garden is ... A: Longwood Gardens.
Q: One thing on my bucket list is ... A: Though I have never
before surfed, I would really like to go surfing in Hawaii
Q: A memory with a tree ... A: Nothing. Not even my tree
house was in a tree.
18
Q: My favourite past-time is ... A: Trail running.
Q: My favourite type of plant is ... A: Bird of Paradise.
Q: One thing on my bucket list is ... A: Kite surfing.
Submit your Highlights
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article to npcsha@gmail.com
Class of 2017
Q: A memory with a tree ... A: An oak tree that I grew up
with all my life has just been cut down.
Carmen Grey ~ Winnipeg, Manitoba
Q: My favourite tool is ... A: Felco #2.
Q: I think plants can save the world ... A: By sustaining our
pollinators!
Q: How I became interested in horticulture ... A: Constant
exposure to nature.
Q: A memory with a tree ... A: Climbed one and broke my
arm falling out of it.
Celia Le Maistre-Matthys ~ Red Deer, Alberta
Q: My favourite tool is ... A: My strong hands and long
nimble fingers.
willow that overhangs the lake at the Mariposa Folk Festival
that I used to climb. I would sit out on the farthest branch,
about 7 feet above the water, reading. One day, after taking a
picture of me, my stepmother called me down from my perch
for dinner. As I descended, my book clasped firmly between
my teeth, I stepped on a dead branch knob. Down I tumbled
into the lake as my family laughed. Somehow, though every
part of me was soaked, the book remained dry.
Jordan Morgan ~ Baden, Ontario
Q: My favourite type of plant is ... A: Pinus densiflora
(Japanese red pine).
Q: My favourite tool is ... A: Axe.
Q: How I became interested in horticulture ... A: My High
School teacher.
Q: One thing on my bucket list is ... A: To travel.
Q: I think plants can save the world ... A: Because people
need happiness and plants create delight. As people recognize Chris Green ~ Ohsweken, Ontario
the happiness related to the beauty of plants, they will
Q: My favourite tool is ... A: Line trimmer.
become more interested in saving and caring for them, and
thus we will continue to have oxygen to breathe.
Q: How I became interested in horticulture ... A: I was born
Q: How I became interested in horticulture ... A: Medicinal into it! My grandparents on both sides were poor farmers but
we ate well. Early mornings doing chores before and after
plants were my first interest in horticulture when I was 13
years old. My interests developed as I learned about vegetable school were routine.
gardening, but the deal breaker came in college when I began
Q: My favourite garden is ... A: The Vegetable Garden.
learning scientific names. I LOVE SCIENTIFIC NAMES!!
Q: My favourite past-time is ... A: Reading biographies,
Q: My favourite garden is ... A: An everything garden! I love
carving soapstone, moose and deer antlers.
herbs, flowers, fruits and vegetables in equal proportions!!
Q: My favourite type of plant is ... A: Edible plants and
Q: My favourite past-time is ... A: Curling up with a good
annuals.
book and a hot cup of tea!
Q: My favourite type of plant is ... A: I am still very partial to Q: One thing on my bucket list is ... A: To visit the Fijian
Islands.
medicinal plants, but I love everything!
Q: One thing on my bucket list is ... A: To hunt a deer; skin
it; make pemmican, jerky and steak; tan the hide; make
myself moccasins and maybe a nice jacket.
Q: A memory with a tree ... A: My whole life, I have been
dragged across the country, attending countless folk and
bluegrass festivals. At these festivals, I would escape to a
quiet place while my family listened to the music. There is a
Meet anyone famous? Send in your photo and story!
19
Highlights: Kenya Trip
take five students and two faculty members on an experience
they would never forget. We headed to Kenya in eastern
Africa to assist with two projects; one at a school for disabled
children in Kissumu, and another in the village of Asembo
Bay, working with a woman’s group to improve agricultural
practices. While my Fanshawe colleague and two students
headed to Joyland School in Kissumu, I trekked north to
Asembo with three students; one to video the experience
and two horticultural students to assist with the agricultural
project. Asembo lies at the end of the paved road, a 12-hour,
tortuous drive northwest of Nairobi, over what in most cases
are considered barely impassable tracks. In Asembo, on the
edge of Lake Victoria, electricity is sporadic, the Internet
non-existent and cell phone coverage even less so.
Horticulture Promotes Prosperity:
Fanshawe students make a difference in a
Kenyan Community
By Michael Pascoe '87
As an avid traveller and botanist, I have always wanted to
visit Africa. Childhood memories of the movie Born Free
starring Virginia McKenna and Bill Travers, as Joy and
George Adamson, were indelibly etched in my mind of what
this great continent was and is; I had to go there.
Botanically, it is plant fanatic’s paradise with almost all
the ecological zones represented coupled with some of the
planet's most unusual plants freely growing — plants that
until my recent visit I had only seen in captivity, or pictured
in books. Africa is known for its plants, but to an estranged
few, what is walking, grazing or sleeping amongst the
botanical bounty that Africa is all about. The ‘big five’ of
the animal world are lions, leopards, buffalo, elephants and
rhinos, all topped off with a profusely rich regional cultural
diversity. Of course you can throw in a few other incidental
animals such as giraffes, baboons and giant tortoises, and you
have a continent overflowing with discovery.
Win-win African adventure
A trip to Africa was on my bucket list, and last summer
London, Ontario-based Fanshawe College secured a grant to
20
It is at the end of the world for my students. Our task was
to assist a group of widowed women to develop and improve
agricultural practices, and at the same time to potentially
help control an invasive, aquatic plant species affecting the
local fishery. Eichhornia crassipes, commonly known as the
water hyacinth, is familiar to most of us as a summer pond
plant with attractive blue flowers. In Asembo, however, it is
a different story; E. crassipes forms large, floating, transient
patches of green that choke out the fish habitat, and at times
give Lake Victoria the appearance of a distant golf course or
pasture. Carried by the wind, drifting on the currents and
enjoying perfect growing conditions, this introduced pest has
become one of Africa’s main botanical thugs.
National governments have tried many approaches to rid
the lake of the plant; mechanical harvesting and herbicide
applications have been the main hit men. But this sneaky
little plant needs only a few offspring hiding in the reeds or
riding on the waves to repopulate the nutrient-rich waters of
Lake Victoria quickly, and that it does.
Compost, cord and crops
The local approach to this plant was not going to be anywhere
near as dramatic as the Governments. It involved a few
buckets, a machete or two, strong backs and a dexterous hand.
Plants were harvested along the shoreline and taken to a
yard, where the bladder was severed from the leaves and
roots, and then set aside. The bladders enable the plant to
float, and are made of a very strong fibre. When cut into
www.alumninpcsoh.com
Highlights: Kenya Trip
laid bare, free of all interfering debris, and the Western way
of chemical fertilizer applications is the intelligent option on
these saturated tropical soils.
A few brave, progressive individuals use manure to side dress
their corn, with demonstrated results. White corn is made
into the porridge-like local staple, ugali, and thus is a very
important crop. So when one or two farmers were found to
be producing higher yields, villagers took note. One of the
last experiences of our three-week visit was trooping through
the village, pushing two wheelbarrows of water hyacinth
debris, to build a compost pile at the leader’s house. A
spectacle to be sure, three mazungas (white people) followed
by about 20 children, trailed by our videographer. At the
leader’s house we demonstrated how to build a compost
pile with the local debris that would usually be burnt.
Combining corn stalks, cattle manure and water hyacinth
debris, we layered a pile several meters high. In the warm,
humid, African climate, they would have compost in record
time. In the fields close to the lake we encouraged farmers
who did not have the time or resources to process water
hyacinth, to harvest and put it directly on their rows of corn.
Women splitting the bladders of water hyacinths. The tough
stalks are then used to make twine. The group from Fanshawe
College showed the residents how to turn the unused parts of
the plant into compost to augment the local soil.
two or three strips and dried in the sun for a day, the strips
can be woven into a cord that can be used for a multitude of
purposes such as baskets, furniture and mats. In Asembo,
every cow and donkey was tethered using locally-made sisal
rope, and thus the braided cord from water hyacinth quickly
found a use.
The rest of the plant was not wasted; the thin delicate roots
cloaked in rich lake mud, when combined with the nitrogenrich leaves, became a key ingredient in compost.
My rubber boots passed me one day, worn by a farmer
riding his bike and waving joyfully. As is typical in Africa,
everything is shared; possessions, company, family, food and
advice. Thus after almost three weeks of living in the village
and working alongside the locals, composting and mulching
is gradually taking hold with a diligent few, the occasional
donkey sports a necklace of water hyacinth and farmers share
a pair of green rubber boots, size 10.
Michael Pascoe is professor and academic program coordinator
for the Horticulture Technician and Apprenticeship Horticulture
Programs at Fanshawe College in London Ont., and director of
The Gardens of Fanshawe College and the A.M. Cuddy Garden.
Reprinted with permission from Landscape Ontario. Originally
published in the July-August 2014 issue of Landscape Trades.
Composting and mulching is a completely foreign concept
to the Kenyan locals, and for that matter even in Asia, where
I spent several years working on a similar project. Ease of
cultivation with simple tools often warrants that the soil be
Tell us about your travelling adventures!
21
Job
Section
Postings
Title
Job Postings
Listings are provided by the Alumni Association for Alumni and Associate members.
Job postings from non- Alumni or Associates may be listed under subjectivity and
reciprocal agreement. For more details: http://alumninpcsoh.com/employment/
employer/
2 Positions: Utility Vegetation Planner with ArborMetrics Solutions,
in Central Alberta
For more details, go to http://www.canadian-forests.com/Forestry-JobsArborMetrics-Alberta-08.22.14.pdf
Closes: September 22, 2014
Position: Park Superintendent with City of Surrey, in Surrey, BC
For more details, go to http://www.civicinfo.bc.ca/161.
asp?jobpostingid=24250&ancla=2#.VAuAIlYaw70
Closes: September 25, 2014
2-Yr Contract Position: Plant Pathology Technician with Vineland Research
and Innovation Centre, in Vineland, Ontario
For more details, go to http://vinelandresearch.com/pub/docs/Plant%20
Pathology%20Technician%20Contract%20Position%20Aug%202014.pdf
Contract to begin: October 2014
Position: Outdoor Biome Skilled Horticulturist with the Eden Project, in
Cornwall, UK
For more details, go to http://www.horticulturejobs.co.uk/job/314102/
outdoor-biome-skilled-horticulturist/?LinkSource=HomePage
Closes: September 29, 2014
Position: RHS Chelsea Flower Show Manager with the Royal Horticultural
Society, in London, UK
For more details, go to https://www.rhs.org.uk/about-the-rhs/work-for-therhs/vacancies/Show-Manager,-RHS-Chelsea-Flower-Show
Closes: September 30, 2014
Associate Members of
the Alumni Association
All Treat Farms
Rod Kidnie, Arthur, ON
www.alltreat.com
Connon Nurseries (NVK)
Neil Vanderkruk, Waterdown, ON
www.connonnurseries.com
Fast Forest Incorporated
Phil Dickie, Kitchener, ON
www.fastforest.ca
G.C. Duke Equipment Limited
Jason Brooker, Burlington, ON
www.gcduke.com
Gro-Bark (Ontario) Ltd
Bill McKague, Waterloo, ON
www.gro-bark.com
Grower’s Choice
Jody Leis, Kitchener, ON
www.growerschoice.ca
Jack Van Klaveren Limited
Robert Murch, St. Catharines, ON
www.jvk.net
Landscape Ontario
Tony DiGiovanni, Milton, ON
www.landscapeontario.com
Master’s Turf Supply Ltd.
Everett Nieuwkoop, Langton, ON
www.masterturfsupply.com
M.K. Rittenhouse & Sons Ltd.
B. Zimmerman, St. Catharines, ON
www.rittenhouse.ca
Niagara Saw
Greg Beu, 4009 Elberta Avenue,
Niagara Falls, ON
905-354-9131
22
Submit job postings and events: aanpcsoh@alumninpcsoh.com
Legacy Garden Before & After
2013
2014
The Legacy Prairie Garden shows incredible growth and development when similar locations are viewed in these photos from the
summer of 2013 and the summer of 2014. A huge success! The top view is looking east from the Butterfly Conservatory viewing
deck. Middle view is of the infiltration pond, now vegetating quickly. The bottom view is the intended site of the Living Wall. All photos
by Bailey Wilson, Class of 2016.
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ournpcsha@gmail.com
Facebook page
23
Test Your Plant ID
1
4
2
5
3
Answers from the previous issue:
1. Ratibida maxima – Texas coneflower – Asteraceae
2. Salix udensis 'Sekka' – Japanese fantail willow – Salicaeae
3. Cedrus libani – cedar-of-Lebanon – Pinaceae
4. Osmunda regalis – royal fern – Osmundaceae
5. Ludwigia sedioides – mosaic flower – Onagraceae
Submit your own puzzling botany photos to Jon Peter at:
aanpcsoh@alumninpcsoh.com
24 Ask about
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becoming
for more
an Associate
Plant ID of
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