As I write this towards the end of July, I feel as though I am in a halcyon bubble- the June heat wave passed, as have the July monsoons. While I lost one lovely healthy, mature tree, and one not so healthy sugar maple which will also be missed, every blooming thing enjoyed long, lush seasons this year.
As the weeds enjoyed the same growth, I just spent three days weeding. The humidity’s low. The sky is clear. The warmth of the sun is a blessing. I am learning to say thank you out loud for days such as these. Soft stemmed thistles and invasive bittersweet pop-ups are expected at this time of year, if not exactly welcome. So they bring a smile, as I reach out and add them to the barrow.
We gardeners revel in anticipation. We like bulb planting, perusal of seed catalogs, the reopening of our favorite local garden centers as much as we relish ephemeral blooms. Were you as astonished as I that we had a long peony season?! One intersectional here had too many blooms to count, and they each and all opened without being zapped by hail or its equivalent.
Birdsong and inky greens of trees at the field borders as the sun lowers define summer for me, as does that whirring while you’re weeding announcing a hummingbird’s nearby.
Yet we know the solstice passed. Part of us forgets to live in the present, and wants to plan for the fall.
Don’t. Not this year. We waited—worked—for this summer and the blessings it’s brought: long awaited visits with family, with friends in our clubs. Enjoy each of these days. Surely we’ve learned how essential each day is.
Please pick up the phone and invite someone who’s been isolated over for a glass of iced tea, or to go for an amble or for company people-watching while you sit both on a park bench.
If ever there were a season to savor, moment by moment, it’s this one.
Thank you for being in my life.
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"This is our time!"
— NGC President Mary Warshauer in The National Gardener, Summer 2021
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The National Gardener Goes ONLINE!
National Garden Clubs Inc. announces the exciting transition of The National Gardener, the 91-year-old quarterly flagship magazine of NGC, from a print publication to a digital platform. This change debuts with the summer 2021 edition.
The new publication, along with past issues of the magazine, will continue to be available at
www.gardenclub.org. To subscribe and receive The National Gardener directly to your inbox, visit The National Gardener page on the NGC website and complete the easy subscription form. You may unsubscribe at any time and subscriptions are always FREE.
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Check the Event Calendar for any Member Clubs, Affiliate Organizations*, State or National events.
*Affiliates may submit up to six events each calendar year.
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For ALL CLUB Presidents: Important Date Change for PRESIDENTS DAY 2021! |
SAVE THE NEW DATE!
PRESIDENTS DAY
Monday, September 13, 2021 (In Person)
Jones Auditorium
Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station
(Watch for an invitation via Constant Contact)
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Join us at the 92nd Annual Awards Meeting, October 27, 2021 — IN PERSON!
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We are so excited to be meeting in person again! Mark your calendars now for Wednesday, October 27, for the 92nd Annual FGCCT Awards Meeting and Luncheon at the Aqua Turf Club in Plantsville, CT. Over 80 State and National Awards will be presented for the exceptional work Clubs have done during the past year. It is wonderful to see how much can be accomplished and you’ll come away with ideas for projects you can undertake for your town.
The meeting commences at 10 am But do come early, because one of the highlights of the day will be “Pumpkins on Parade II.” Fabulous floral designs featuring a pumpkin, flowers and more will be on view for your enjoyment from 9 - 10 am and during lunch. You’ll be able to vote for 1) Most creative, 2) Best use of color, and 3) Best use of plant material.
Be sure to purchase drawings tickets when you arrive. You may win one of the beautiful table centerpieces designed by four of our Garden Clubs or one of the lovely gifts from our vendors.
Registrations for this popular event are now open and the deadline is Friday, October 22. Cancellations after this date will not be refunded.
You can register and pay online (up to 10 registrations can be made with a single payment) or you can register by mail.
We can’t wait to see you!
Nan Merolla, FGCCT 2nd Vice President and Acting Meetings Chair
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PUMPKINS on PARADE RETURNS! |
The popular Pumpkins on Parade is back — in person! — for the 2021 Awards meeting at Aqua Turf on October 27. You’re invited to create a fall floral design using a fresh pumpkin and seasonal flowers to be featured at the meeting!
Those attending the annual Awards session will be able to see your unique pumpkin design up close and vote for their favorites! Based on the success of the 2020 Virtual Pumpkins on Parade, Pumpkins on Parade II promises to be lots of fun. Minimal rules! For details on how to enter, e-mail Trish Manfredi at ptmanfredi@cox.netby September 15.
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Wanted: Centerpiece designers for the 2021 Awards Meeting at Aqua Turf!
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A great project for your garden club – create 8 centerpieces for the luncheon tables – FGCCT, Inc, will reimburse clubs up to $15 per centerpiece. The theme is: "We Grow Gardens & Gardeners.” Ideas that come to mind are watering cans, seed packets, garden tools, flower pots, etc. Use your imagination! Four (4) clubs are needed! For more information or to volunteer your club, contact Trish Manfredi, ptmanfredi@cox.net
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Plant Science Day 2021 is August 4 — Don't Miss It! |
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Wednesday, August 4th
9:30 am - 4:00 pm
at Lockwood Farm
890 Evergreen Avenue
Hamden, CT 06518
Come and enjoy a day of fun and education sponsored by Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station (CAES). The gates open at 9:30 am and programs begin at 10:00 am. You’ll be able to discuss current research topics with CAES scientists, explore the research farm and listen to informative talks.
- Barn Displays • 80 Field Plots and Exhibits • Technical Demonstrations
- Plant Disease Diagnosis and Plant Identification • Insect Identification
- Your Questions Answered • Passports for Children
A multitude of diverse organizations also plan to be on hand to provide insight and counsel on horticultural and environmental issues that affect all of us in our gardening pursuits. Please stop by The Federation table and say hello!
The event is free and open to the public. For event details and a full brochure – CLICK HERE.
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Environmental School, Course 4 — September 22 & 23, 2021
Registration is Open!
The Federated Garden Clubs of Connecticut, Inc., presents
National Garden Clubs, Inc.
Environmental School Course 4
“Water and Related Issues”- September 22 & 23, 2021, via Zoom.
Come learn about our most precious natural resources from experts in the field. Our Federation's courses are recognized for their superb presenters, and Environmental School is no exception! Our roster includes these experts and more:
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Oswald Schmitz, PhD, Yale University School of the Environment
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Susan Quincy, CT DEEP Environmental Educator
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Greg Bugbee, Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station
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Bill Lucey, Soundkeeper, Save The Sound
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Carrie Szwed, Education Director, White Memorial Conservation Center
During this 2-day course, academics, environmentalists, and industry leaders will guide you through a wide range of topics including environmental science, earth stewardship, fresh and salt-water aquatic plants and animals, the effects of climate change on the water cycle, and the value of wetlands to our ecology. Learn about environmental programs for youth, the better to inspire and educate the next generation. Make connections! Share ideas with fellow Garden Club and community members from Connecticut, from all around the United States, during this lively 2 day offering.
Water is a “hot” issue. Currently, half the continental United States suffers from severe drought, which threatens humans, livestock and crops. The other half is under water. What can be done to protect our environment, our health and our wallets?
Environmental School courses are open to the public as well as garden club members, so bring a friend! Garden Club members may, upon successful completion of two Environmental Schools courses, join the Environmental Consultants Council. Courses may be taken in any order.
For additional information, please contact FGCCT Environmental School Chair Sharon Bender at 203-530-2920 or ESChair@ctgardenclubs.org.
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Oct 1 Deadline for Public Relations and Yearbooks Award Nominations
NGC has retired Yearbook awards. The FGCCT Yearbook Committee will present the Yearbook Award of Excellence to the club whose Yearbook best demonstrates an all-around approach to furthering The Federation President’s Theme. For 2021-23, President Polly Brooks’ theme is We Grow Gardens & Gardeners. Yearbooks will still be submitted by hard copy.
October 1 is the deadline for both Public Relations and Yearbook award nominations. We will follow the lead of National Garden Clubs, Inc., and only accept digital submissions for most of the Public Relations awards. Details about important changes to both Public Relations and Yearbooks will be posted on The Federation website, in the Awards Manual and to the Club Presidents.
— Vonice Carr, Awards Chair
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You're Invited to the Coast of Maine Oct 12-13!
… as The Garden Club Federation of Maine (GCFM) prepares to host the New England Garden Clubs, Inc. (NEGC) 4th Annual Meeting on October 12-13, 2021. Last year’s meeting was cancelled due to the pandemic but plans are now being finalized to hold the meeting this year in Wells, Maine, along the southern coast. National Garden Clubs (NGC) President Mary Warshauer has accepted an invitation to attend. Highlights will include a cocktail reception to honor her and NEGC Region Director Suzanne McCance. Also highlighting the first night will be a Small Standard Flower Show being coordinated by Maine Judges Council.
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"Treasury Notes"
The IRS and Why your FISCAL YEAR is important
When you filed your personal income taxes for 2020, your fiscal year was the same as the calendar year, January to December, and your taxes were due by April 15th. Everyone remembers this date.
But the majority of our Garden Club have a fiscal year that is different than the calendar year.
How did that happen and why? The Federation applied and paid for 501(c)(3) non-profit “parent” organization status with the IRS way back in 1967. FGCCT Garden Clubs were granted non-profit status as “subordinate” members of The Federation. Subordinates are listed with the IRS as “Federated Garden Clubs of CT” with their individual EIN identifying each specific club on our IRS Group Exemption. The fiscal year of a Garden Club was determined at the time they became listed on this group exemption. Each club has their own EIN, the Employer Identification Number, even though your club does not have employees. Your club’s EIN identifies your club the same way your social security number identifies individuals when you file and pay taxes.
You may not even be aware of your club’s IRS fiscal year dates, because it does not necessarily correspond with your current program year or even your budget year, which is OK. There are many things our non-profit Garden Clubs must take into consideration to comply with IRS regulations. Perhaps the most significant compliance issue is that all non-profit Garden Clubs must file yearly with the IRS on or before 5 1/2 months after the end of their fiscal year. So knowing when your fiscal year ends is significant.
Most clubs qualify to file the 990-N form quickly and easily online. Filing on time with the IRS is the responsibility of individual clubs, it is not the responsibility of The Federation. We may endeavor to educate and remind, but ultimately it is the responsibility of each club.
The IRS does not inform The Federation when you file or if your club didn’t file. So what happens when your club does not file for three consecutive years? The IRS automatically deletes your club’s name and EIN from The Federated’s Group Exemption – your non-profit status is REVOKED. No warnings are issued to your club and no notice to The Federation. The IRS assumes that after three years of no filings that your club no longer exists.
If your club has its non-profit status revoked, it is a major headache and a complicated procedure to gain that status again. I do not wish to ever have that happen to another club. Trust me, just ask a club who has dealt with this issue or is still dealing with it. The Federation is not allowed to just add your club back to our Group Exemption. It is entirely up to the club and the IRS to deal with reinstatement. I have called the IRS on behalf of clubs and spent hours on hold and hours talking to IRS representatives getting promises, with little or no results. There is no guarantee that a club will be successful, either. We’ve had member clubs that needed to disband because they could no longer operate without tax exempt non-profit status.
Just make sure your club files every year and don’t get REVOKED in the first place!
A club cannot file their 990-N until their fiscal year has been completed. A few of our member clubs file a written form 990-EZ or 990 long form, rather than the short, easy to file on-line 990-N.
The following clubs are due to file a 990-N now:
Garden Club of Old Greenwich fiscal year is May 1 to April 30, and is due now, but before September 15
The following Clubs’ fiscal year is June 1 to May 31 and are due to file now, but before October 15:
- Durham Garden Club
- Gardeners of Simsbury
- Knollwood Garden Club
- Middletown Garden Club
- Milford Garden Club
- New Britain Garden Club
- Spring Glen Garden Club
- Suffield Garden Club
- Wallingford Garden Club
- West Hartford Garden Club
It is possible some of these may have already filed; let me know if you have. I have filed for my Wallingford Garden Club already. If you do not agree with this list or you have questions, PLEASE email me!
Shirley Hall, FGCCT Treasurer
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Featured Affiliate — NEW!
[This new feature of the CFNews will spotlight a different FGCCT Affiliate Member in each issue.]
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Connecticut's Historic Gardens |
How many of Connecticut’s Historic Gardens have you been to? There are 15 beautiful and unique historic gardens dotted throughout Connecticut - just waiting for you to enjoy the variety of styles and time periods. Visit sites in your area or make a day of it and explore a different part of the state. At your first site, be sure to inquire about the Passport Program — visit three gardens, have your brochure initialed at each site, and receive a special prize at your third garden visit!
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Promisek at Three Rivers Farm, Bridgewater |
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Tours - A Word about Trip Insurance |
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Today putting down your hard-earned cash for a trip may have more risks than it did years ago. We have aged so medical issues can arise, the Covid 19 pandemic has reared its ugly head, some travel companies have had a hard time staying afloat and their vendors at times have not been able to stay in business. It's more important than ever to protect your investment.
As your FGCCT Tour Coordinator, it is not my business to steer you towards one company or another. Researching options can be a bit of hard work. I always suggest several websites to use to do your own comparison: Aardy.com, Squaremouth.com, and Insuremytrip.com. Once you see a policy or two that you like, I suggest going online to search for reviews of those companies before you pull the trigger. Buying trip insurance for overseas trips has another set of criteria: you need ample coverage for medical and evacuation because your health insurance (such as Medicare) may not cover you overseas.
Visit the FGCCT Tour Website page for the latest information about a busy 2022-2023 touring season: from Savannah and the Lowcountry to Alaska to the Finger Lakes to Italy, Nova Scotia and South Africa!
— Kathy Lindroth, FGCCT Tours Coordinator
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Youth Activities: National Garden Club Poetry and Sculpture Winners |
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The Federated Garden Clubs of CT, Inc., in conjunction with the North Haven Garden Club, brought home six National Garden Club (NGC) poetry and two sculpture prizes. NGC's theme for 2020-2021 was “Exploring Backyard Mysteries.” The winners are listed from kindergarten to eighth grade:
“Explore Your Backyard" by Sean Alleyne, Kindergarten — Third Place
“In My Garden” by Mia Kaplan, Second Grade — Honorable Mention
“The Family Garden" by Nami El Mammann, Fifth Grade — First Place **
“The Cooper Garden Adventure" by Safia El Mammann, Seventh Grade — Third Place
“Enigmas of My Garden" by Clarissa Kumar, Eighth Grade — Second Place
“Nature’s Small Surprises” by Jessica Haeckel, Eighth Grade — Certificate of Participation
“Sing with the Songbirds — Exploring the Glory of Nature” is the theme of the 2021-2022 Poetry Contest. Contestants from kindergarten through the eighth grade are encouraged to enter.
The sculpture winners are Savanna Alleyne, Fourth Grade — First Place and Clarissa Kumar, Eighth Grade. Their creations were constructed from recycled, reused and reduced materials.
The North Haven Garden Club presented Certificates of Achievement and gift cards to each student for their entries in the poetry contest. Nami El Mammann was presented with a $25 check from FGCCT for winning first place in his grade. Each student was also presented with an Award Certificate from FGCCT Youth Chairman Dottie Fox, a gift card and a glass starfish, which they could place in their garden and/or school desk to remind them of their commitment to nature.
Two high school students, Elizabeth Knapp and Tariq El Mammann, also received Certificates of Achievement from FGCCT, plus a gift certificate and gift bag. Autumn Murray from the Wallingford Garden Club also submitted an essay and will be receiving her certificate and gifts. Their 700-word essays, entitled “Adapting our Actions to Protect our Natural Habitats,” are currently being judged by the National Garden Club; awards will be distributed at NGC's national convention in August.
A Woodsy Owl poster created by Olivia Schweitzer also won first place in Connecticut and was sent on to the New England Regional/ National Garden Club for judging. She was sponsored by the Kensington Garden Club and received a Certificate of Participation, a gift certificate and gift bag.
During these summer months, it is important to encourage children to conserve our natural resources. They can conserve water by collecting rain water in basins or buckets to water their gardens. In addition, use of plastic water bottles should be discouraged — it is much more ecologically prudent to use reusable metal water bottles, which can keep beverages cold for up to sixteen hours.
On a personal note, it is with deep regret that I have resigned from the Board of the Federated Garden Clubs of Connecticut, Inc. It has been a tremendously rewarding and learning experience over the past ten years (six years as Garden Therapy Chairman and four as Youth Chairman) and I have met an astounding number of women throughout our wonderful state. It has been an honor to serve you and I pledge to continue to support the goals of our great organization. Thank you all for your commitment to our youth and to the future of our planet!
— Dottie Fox, Youth Activities Chair
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Landscape Design Council Tours Plantsville Pines |
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On July 1, Susan Laursen, Chair of the FGCCT's Landscape Design Council, lead the Council on a tour of Plantsville Pines, a 3-acre garden begun in 2002 by George Anthony Jones. The garden is situated on a former asparagus farm with admirable stone-free, very un-Connecticut type soil which George surmises was once an ancient river bed.
When he built his house, George had the foresight to dig 300 holes around the perimeter of the property. The little pine trees he planted have now grown huge and give the garden both its name and an almost surreal sense of seclusion from the surrounding industrial neighborhood.
The garden is a series of rooms, each with a unique theme and color scheme. However, diverse they are, there is a feeling of harmony created by the use of common plant material and from planters and urns containing similar plants, including an interesting collection of succulents. Uniting all of the areas is a feeling of enclosure created by colorful chamaecyparis, spruce, arborvitaes and of course, the towering pines that surround it all.
Some of the garden rooms are entered and exited through iron arbors covered in the small flowered, dark pink roses, ‘Super Excelsa’ and ‘Super Dorothy,’ which are followed later in the season by Autumn Clematis. Focal points such as fountains viewed through the arbors draw visitors on to the next areas.
Though some of the garden rooms in Plantsville Pines feel faintly European, the plants are cosmopolitan — American natives, tropicals which winter over in the basement, and perennials, annuals and conifers from all over the temperate world.
We in the Council felt honored to see this beautiful garden and were inspired and uplifted by the vision of its creator and the artistry of his design. — Carol King-Platt
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Awards: Updates and Deadlines
October 1 Deadline for Public Relations and Yearbooks
Just as we all look forward to the change of seasons, October 1 will usher in a new season with major changes for Public Relations and Yearbook Awards. We will follow the lead of National Garden Clubs, Inc., and only accept digital submissions for most of the Public Relations awards.
NGC has retired Yearbook awards. The FGCCT Yearbook Committee will present the Yearbook Award of Excellence to the club whose Yearbook best demonstrates an all-around approach to furthering The Federation President’s Theme. For 2021-23, President Polly Brooks’ theme is We Grow Gardens & Gardeners. Yearbooks will still be submitted by hard copy.
October 1 is the deadline for both Public Relations and Yearbook award nominations. Details about the changes to both Public Relations and Yearbooks will be posted on The Federation website, in the Awards Manual and to the Club Presidents.
I knew that NGC was making changes to awards, but the breadth of the changes surprised me. It will take a bit of time to get all the new award information and details on The Federation website, so please bear with me. In the meantime, you may address any questions to me, Vonice Carr, at awards@ctgardenclubs.org.
— Vonice Carr, Awards Chair
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FGCCT Nominating Committee |
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The Nominating Committee is pleased that Deb Osborne of The Garden Club of Newtown has accepted the vacant position of Scholarship Chair, succeeding Margareta Kotch.
At the present time, we’re seeking qualified people for several exciting positions to help The Federation move forward. Two of the open positions include Assistant Treasurer and Youth Activities Chair. To accelerate the brand awareness for all the great work The Federation is doing, we’re looking for a Public Relations Chair. Lastly, since Nan Merolla has moved into the role of Second Vice President, we’re seeking a Meetings Chair to organize and oversee our Annual and Awards Meetings. If any of these positions sound interesting, the Committee would like to hear from you.
Contact Arlene Field by email or phone (203-922-2053) for further information.
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The heat is stifling and it is still only June (I do have to write these a bit in advance). You know the story – too hot, too humid, too early! It does not bring great joy to one’s gardening practice. More than ever I want plants that just take care of themselves, ask nothing of a sweaty me and don’t cause me to hate nature entirely (read deer, mugwort and Japanese beetles). I have already slid into a mid-summer languor searching magazines and catalogs for miraculous solutions to these problems. Alas, nothing miraculous BUT I have used my time in front of the fan to expand my knowledge of a plant that now is the apple – or in this case onion – of my eye: Alliums.
The Allium genus has hundreds of species including the culinary yummies like garlic, chives, onions, leeks and shallots. Makes sense that the genus name is Latin for garlic. Most species of Allium are native to the northern continents with a few from South America. Allium species have either bulbs or rhizomes and produce green leaves and blossom-topped scapes (flower stalks). The flower head is actually a cluster of individual florets making them a feast for pollinators. The clusters can be round, oval or cascading, and the flower color may be white, yellow, pink, purple or blue. Heights also vary, with stalks ranging from 5 inches to 4 feet tall. They grow best in full sun, though several varieties can also thrive in partial sunlight (A. cowanii, A. oreophilum and A. bulgaricum). The bulbs are hardy in zones 3-8 and, like most bulbs, need well-drained soil.
Alliums that grow from bulbs are planted in the fall but herbaceous alliums like ‘Millenium’ have fibrous roots and can be planted at any time during the growing season. Bulb size determines planting depth. Large bulbs should be planted 5 to 6” deep, small bulbs are only planted 3” deep. In general, squirrels, chipmunks and voles don’t like the onion taste of allium bulbs and leave them alone.
Alliums usually produce leaves a month or more before they send up a flower bud. With some species, the foliage starts to yellow and die back before the flowers have finished blooming. Alliums that grow from bulbs need their foliage to produce energy for next year’s flowers so no obsessive tidiness please. Allow the foliage to die back naturally – if it can be removed with a gentle tug, it is done.
Now the debate on whether to leave the flower heads... The seed heads are very ornamental but remember the plant will invest resources in developing those seeds. It is best to cut them early and save for flower arrangements. Big-headed alliums such as ‘Globemaster’ and A. schubertii rarely produce viable seeds but if the conditions are right, ‘Purple Sensation’, drumstick alliums and others will (some a little too much!). I rarely have a problem with this because alliums make such excellent, long lasting cut flowers, I raid the garden for them.
Really the only challenging aspect of growing alliums is picking which to plant. Most alliums bloom in late spring and early summer but by planting several different types, you can stretch the show for months. So what the heck, plant them all!
There are any number of sources for alliums online but two in Connecticut worth seeking out are Colorblends and John Scheepers (the catalog has four pages of alliums). I wish you a halcyon summer and don’t forget to stop and smell the onions.
— Renee Marsh, Horticulture Chair
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Using Alliums in Floral Design |
Alliums are gorgeous flowers, many standing proud and tall in the garden, in a range of colors. They bring this beauty to floral arrangements, both traditional and creative. Fresh alliums, with their round form and amazing texture, contrast beautifully with smooth flowers such as calla lilies and anthuriums in arrangements.
Since alliums dry well, their texture can be enhanced with paint for creative designs. Leave alliums in the garden for a while after their color fades to add visual interest, then cut and dry – hang upside down in a dry place or put in a tall container for support in a dry room. A hint: spray with a fixative or a neutral color to seal the seed capsules so that they don’t release the seeds. Metallic colors such as bronze, antique gold or silver will transform the alliums into great additions to winter greens for holiday designs.
This design by Trish Manfredi appears in the forthcoming 2022 NGC Vision of Beauty Calendar. It contrasts painted dried alliums with lightly textured pool noodles and colorful, smooth plastic rings. The multi-rhythmic creative design has just two colors: lime green and shades of purple, continuing the theme of “Contrasts.”
The photo, taken by Dom Cenotti, RC Imaging Photography, who photographs designs for Creative Arrangers of Connecticut each year, is used with permission of NGC. The 2022 Vision of Beauty Calendar includes 8 designs from Connecticut garden club members, and is available from NGC at Vision of Beauty Calendar.
— Trish Manfredi, Judges Council Chair
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Beech Leaf Disease was first detected in lower Fairfield County in 2019 and is now widespread and prevalent on American beech (Fargus grandifolia) throughout Fairfield, New haven, Middlesex and New London Counties. It also appears to be spreading into Litchfield, Tolland and Windham Counties, although less severely. This disease, which can kill trees within several years, was first discovered in 2012 in Ohio.
The symptoms on beech foliage are best observed from below looking up into the canopy. They include dark striping between leaf veins, aborted leaf enlargement, cupping, browning and yellowing of foliage, branch and tip dieback and sometimes premature leaf drop. CAES and DEEP Forestry believe that 2020's hot and dry summer, exacerbated by this year's dry spring are playing a role in these symptoms.
According to a report by Dr. Yonghao Li of the CAES, "little is known about the biology of the pathogen and no effective control or eradication measures have been developed." Li noted that quarantines and regulations could be used to prevent further spread.
Caused by the foliar nematode, Litylenchus crenataie subsp. mecannii, scientists have joined forces with researchers in Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York and Ontario to study disease development. To date the research on control options, conducted in Ohio, has not been promising.
American Beech is the third most abundant tree species in Connecticut, after red maple and black birch, and is found in just over 40 percent of the state's forested lands.
— Nancy Lenoce, Environmental Concerns/Conservation Chair
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Spotted Lanternfly Quarantine Issued |
The Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station has issued a Notice of Quarantine with defined restricted areas for the exotic pest spotted lanternfly, Lycorma delicatula (SLF for short). This insect has been detected in Connecticut with established populations detected in Fairfield County and single individuals intercepted in numerous towns.
The quarantine order became effective July 1, 2021, and will remain in effect until December 31, 2021, after which it may be renewed, rescinded, or replaced by the promulgation of regulations.
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The Life Cycle of the spotted lanternfly
[Colleen Witkowski, Penn State, extension.psu.edu]
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CT DEEP Issues Songbird Advisory |
The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) is alerting residents to a mortality event occurring in parts of the United States among certain species of fledgling songbirds, and asking residents to take certain precautionary measures. Although there have been no confirmed cases of birds in Connecticut suffering from this ailment, DEEP Wildlife Division staff are monitoring the situation and are in communication with neighboring states, and federal and conservation partners.
Connecticut residents are encouraged to take the following precautionary measures, as birds congregating at bird feeders and bird baths can transmit diseases to one another:
- Cease feeding birds and providing water in bird baths until this wildlife mortality event has concluded. This may be infectious.
- Clean feeders and bird baths with a 10% bleach solution.
- Avoid handling dead or injured wild birds. Wear disposable gloves if it necessary to handle a bird.
- Keep pets away from sick or dead birds as a standard precaution.
- To dispose of dead birds, place them in a sealable plastic bag and discard with household trash. This will prevent disease transmission to other birds and wildlife.
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'Feed the Bees' with One Tree Planted Grants
Jumping on the bandwagon for One Tree Planted's "Feed the Bees" initiative, Pam Nobumoto of the Wilton Garden Club applied for and received two $1,500 grants from the organization, which is striving to reforest the earth, one tree at a time. The first grant was used to replace many trees that were lost during recent hurricanes at Sherwood Island State Park in Westport where she is a volunteer for the Friends of Sherwood Island - Garden Team. On April 23 & 24, volunteers planted 125 native trees and shrubs. The salt tolerant varieties selected will also attract and feed wildlife and help prevent erosion.
The second grant was used to add native pollinator plants to the property surrounding Trackside Teen Center in Wilton. The trees and shrubs received for this central location in town, which connects to the Pollinator Pathway, will be replacing the many invasive species that have taken hold and have crowded out our native plants. Pam has worked with members of the NRWA, Wilton Garden Club Conservation Co-Chairs, Liz Craig and Jackie Algon, Trackside Director, Cindy Moser, and Town Tree Warden, Lars Cherichetti, to schedule planting dates and receive approvals for the selected trees and shrubs to be planted in specific locations. Replacing the invasive species with these native flowering plants (Serviceberry, Black Gum, Sugar Maple, Red Maple, Winterberry, pagoda dogwoods, high bush blueberry, silky dogwood, sweetspire and oak leaf hydrangea) will not only provide the much needed food and shelter for local wildlife, but will beautify the area surrounding the Trackside building while bringing pollinators to the Neighborhood Garden where she is a co-chair for the Green Teens Program. Half of the order was delivered and volunteers planted 33 trees on Saturday May 22nd. It was quite a busy day and it was great to see children, teens and adults all working together. Three Sugar Maple trees from this batch were donated to Ambler Farm for future use in their Maple Syrup program. The second half of the order was delivered June 9th and 11 trees were planted at Trackside by former youth of the High School Internship Program, 1 at Schenk’s Island and 2 will be planted on the NRVT. All areas are where volunteers are actively removing invasive plants and replacing them with native pollinators.
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"Club Corner" is a feature of the CFNews designed to be a place where clubs or individual club members can showcase club achievements and activities. Visit "Club Corner" on the FGCCT website for latest news and tips for clubs - - and while you're there, check out the new "Featured Club" tab where we'll be highlighting a different clubs in each CFNews issue, based on "Club Corner" submissions.
This issue, our Featured Club is the Litchfield Garden Club. Check out everything this busy club is doing! |
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FGCCT Clubs Celebrated NATIONAL GARDEN WEEK June 6-12, 2021 |
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Pictured above: Chair Kathy Bryson, Shirley Hall, Cathleen Cullen, Martha Shea and Ellie Tessmer.
The Wallingford Garden Club celebrated National Garden Week in June with WGC Civic volunteers renovating a section of the Agnes B Campos Memorial Garden at the Wallingford Senior Center. Chair Kathy Bryson coordinated the effort with the cleaning and designing the garden section using left over plants from the WGC plant sale, specifically German Iris, Daylilies, and Sedum. Invasives like mugwort, Autumn Olive and Chinese Bittersweet were removed for the new plants. The area was covered with Cedar mulch from the Wallingford Recycling Center. Water was made available by WSC director Bill Viola.
Volunteers were: Cathleen Cullen, Shirley Hall, Mary Ellen Morganti, Martha Shea, Carmelina Villani, Donna Bush, Kathy Bryson & ET.
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Above (L-R), Lynne Sherman, Dale Ryan and Grace Yagtug, Conservation Committee Chair, with "hotel."
In honor of National Garden Week, the Projects and Beautification Committee of the Litchfield Garden Club, co-chaired by Lynne Sherman and Dale Ryan, presented Grace Yagtug, Conservation Committee Chair, with two “Insect Hotels.”
Over the past two years, the Conservation Committee initiated numerous projects including the creation and sale of Bluebird houses and Screech-Owl boxes. The Projects and Beautification committee chose insect hotels to complement the theme of the bird nesting structures. Bugs require safe habitats to thrive. The hotels are filled with natural materials including tree branches, pine cones, bark, shells and lichen.
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In Cheshire, Celebrating 101 Years! |
The Cheshire Garden Club reached another milestone at the beginning of June 2021 and celebrated its 101st Anniversary in the Colonial Garden of the Cheshire Historical Society. This was the first get-together since the beginning of the pandemic at the beginning of 2020. The program included a historical overview of the last two years via a pictorial display. A $1,000 scholarship award was presented to a graduating high school senior with excellent credentials who will be pursuing an environmental program at UConn New officers were installed for the 2021-2023 term, followed by a lively luncheon. At the conclusion, a Certificate of Appreciation was presented to the Historical Society’s President for her assistance with this memorable event.
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Kensington Garden Club Goes Native
In February 2020, the Kensington Garden Club initiated a conversation with the town about removing invasive Burning Bushes and Barberry from Volunteer Park in Berlin, CT. On May 20, 2021, the collaborative project culminated with a publicity event that included 40+ members, the town mayor and town manager, Community Foundation of Greater NB President, a board member and FGCCT Past President Arlene Field.
With the town’s Phase 1 support and a generous grant from the Community Foundation of Greater NB for Phase 2, we were able to create a garden that has food and habitat value to insects and birds, reduces invasive spread into our wooded areas which crowds out beneficial plants that birds and insects depend on, and adds beauty to this town area, which is centrally located and visible to many residents and visitors. The native plantings include: 7 Pink Cherokee Princess Flowering Dogwoods, the club color and flower; 6 Oak leaf Hydrangea; 21 Winterberry Red Sprite; 4 Mountain Laurel, the official state flower; and a variety of pollinator plants such as Echinacea, Agastache, Autumn Sedum, Phlox and Red Twig Arctic Fire. Additionally we added plant tags to help educate the park’s visitors.
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Celebrating collaboration |
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Donations by Garden Clubs to our Scholarship, Garden Therapy and World Gardening Funds |
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We thank the following Garden Clubs for their recent donations to the FGCCT Scholarship Fund.* For almost 40 years, the Federation has awarded scholarships to college and university students who major in Agronomy, Botany, City Planning, Conservation, Environmental Studies, Floriculture, Forestry, Horticulture, Land Management, Landscape Design, Plant Pathology, or allied subjects. We welcome donations of any size. Our appeal is ongoing to give all of our clubs the opportunity to make a contribution in the amount of their choosing.
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Scholarship Donations as of July 24, 2021 |
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Danbury Garden Club
Evergreen Country Gardeners
Guilford Garden Club
Garden Club of Orange
Thames River Garden Club
Fairfield Garden Club
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$100
$200
$50
$150
$500
$250
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Garden Therapy Donations as of May 16, 2021 |
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Guilford Garden Club
Garden Club of Orange
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World Gardening Donations as of May 16, 2021 |
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Guilford Garden Club
Garden Club of Orange
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Change in procedure for mailing donation checks: The position of Assistant Treasurer is currently vacant, therefor all checks for donations should be mailed directly to the FGCCT Treasurer for deposit, and, as always, made out to FGCCT with the appropriate Fund listed on the memo line.
The Treasurer will notify the appropriate Chair of all donations. Please note that due to the deadline for articles and information for the CFNews, some donations may not be received and deposited in time to be included in the bi-monthly donation acknowledgement, but will be included in the next issue of our newsletter.
Mail checks to
Shirley Hall, Treasurer
21 Tamarac Swamp Road
Wallingford, CT 06492
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Publications from National Garden Clubs, Inc.
and New England Garden Clubs, Inc.
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Tips to use online calendar and submitting a calendar event - click buttons below. |
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Don't Forget to follow us on Facebook and Instagram!
FGCCT is on Facebook and Instagram and we love to post your news and photos! Please send upcoming events, club happenings, civics projects, milestones, and hort tips. Please include photos and a brief write- up of the news your club would like to share. The best format for submissions is text in an email with jpeg photos attached. Make the photos active, showing members at work or showcasing beautiful gardens, flowers, and plants (please name the flower if it is a hort only photo). These social media platforms offer a fun way to learn and connect. Let’s follow each other! Send your submissions to social@ctgardenclubs.org
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URGENT NOTICE
ALL FGCCT CLUBS MUST FILE WITH THE IRS!
IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR CLUB PRESIDENTS AND TREASURERS
To maintain your garden club's Tax Exemption status, your club MUST file with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) EVERY YEAR. You must file a form 990, 990-EZ, or 990N (the e-postcard).
Clubs that fail to file an annual 990-series return or notice, for three consecutive years, will AUTOMATICALLY lose their tax-exempt status.
or Go To
www.irs.gov, then click link for "Charities & Non-Profits."
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Deadline to submit articles/photos, ads and calendar events for the October/November 2021 issue of The Connecticut Federation News is September 10, 2021. Please submit to:
ARTICLES/PHOTOS
Marty Sherman
ADVERTISING
Barbara Romblad
PO Box 854, Branford, CT 06405
203.488.5528
CALENDAR
Ellie Tessmer
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State, Regional &
National Events
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