The art of growing gardens
From an inaugural meeting in August 1915, Morrinsville Horticultural Society members have met on a regular basis to share knowledge and expertise about the art of growing vegetables, flowers and keeping gardens and lawns healthy and attractive.
A booklet produced for the Society’s Golden Jubilee in 1965 notes: ‘‘In 1915, it was evident that with the rapid growth of the town, the number of farms being sub-divided, new homes being built in the town and gardens being established, the district should be able to support a flower show. With few motor cars in the area, the First World War and the desire for folk with a like hobby or pastime to get together with the flowers they had and the more fortunate ones with something that was new, the formation of a Horticultural Society provided the opportunity to exhibit produce from the farm, orchard, flower and vegetable garden, cookery and fancywork.’’
Members of the Society meet regularly on the first Friday of each month and welcome anyone interested in learning about horticulture – a somewhat forgotten art in this increasingly technological age.
However, as more and more people are turning to home grown and sustainable food practices, the Horticultural Society is a great starting place for those who want to increase their knowledge of growing vegetables, flowers, fruits and cultivating plants in containers.
The Society also holds flower shows three times a year - Daffodil, Rose and Dahlia - where people can exhibit their home grown produce and flowers according to the show schedule and time of year.
These provide a good opportunity for the public to have a go at growing flowers and vegetables as well as trying their hand at the art of floral art and arrangements.
Horticulture Society meetings are held at the Lyceum Clubrooms, Moorhouse St, Morrinsville, starting at 1.30pm.
The challenge is on for pairs of year five and year six school pupils to grate, slice, cook, create and plate a vegetablebased meal from ‘root to tip’. The Root to Tip Competition has students all around the country, putting their tastiest kitchen creations to the test, using as much of the fruit or vegetable as possible, and leaving little or no waste. Entries will close on June 12 and the Waikato regional finals will be held on Saturday, June 23. Visit www.roottotip.org.nz to enter.
Join Matamata-Piako District Council and local business people to discuss ideas on how to capitalise on business opportunities regarding the Te Aroha to Matamata Hauraki Rail Trail Extension, followed by a short presentation from the CEO of Hamilton Waikato Tourism, Jason Dawson. Light refreshments will be provided. Held June 12, 5.30pm at Matamata Civic Centre. Reserve your spot by phoning Rachael on 07 884 0060.