Garden club

The May meeting was again well attended with over 50 members being present to hear an informative talk on growing avocados in this local area.

Steve Rowe from Rowe’s Nursery described how many of the well-known varieties such as Fuertes and Hass can be successfully grown here. While small (up to three years old), trees will benefit from protection from frost and sunburn.

There are dwarf varieties available for smaller gardens and most trees will begin to fruit within four years from planting.

The main requirements are good drainage, plenty of compost, lime and regular watering. Considering the time of year, there was another well stocked competition bench especially the ‘Flower Arrangement’ section.

However, the ‘Best Exhibit’ went to Aileen White, whose tree Dahlia stem was most impressive.

At a recent committee meeting it was decided to include a ‘Novice Section’ to encourage new members to participate and gain experience in the competition.

The new defibrillator will be installed at the Senior Citizens’ Centre where it can be used in any emergency as well as being taken on bus trips.

There is to be a joint training course on first aid involving Club members and members of the Senior Citizens’ Club.

The next meeting will be on June 24 and will be a forum entitled “The Advantages and Myths of Organic Gardening”. Several members will lead the discussion which promises to be active for both points of view. Doors open at 9am for benching exhibits and the meeting will begin at 9.45am.

New members and visitors are always welcome. Full details of club activities can be found at www.warragulgardenclub.com.