“Cheers to a new year and another chance for us to get it right.” ― Oprah Winfrey

New Year Forum

We had an impromptu discussion on eclectic topics:

Judith spoke about the medicinal properties of sage

Thelma had researched more on the green wood brought in by Jenny and found information on Tom Volk’s blog  http://botit.botany.wisc.edu/toms_fungi/  (July 2008)

Janella confessed that she needs to declutter and asked for tips

Trevor ranted about purchasing bulbs and plants only to find out that they flowered a different colour from those advertised and wondered why Trades Description doesn’t apply.

Display Table

Just some of Peter’s collection of Cyclamen coum

 Ann’s fragrant Sarcococca confusa and Hamamelis mollis (Chinese witch hazel)

 These stag beetles were a Christmas gift for bug-loving Ann

 Gill’s basket of pots of early Spring flowers makes an attractive display

Gill’s container of flowers which are out in the garden this week includes Pachyphragma, snowdrops, Sarcococca confusa, Aconite, Cyclamen coum and wild primrose

Judith brought Clivia, Hellebore Christmas Carol,  the golden leaved Coleus Roy Pedley, Ammi, Pineapple sage and Tête á Tête daffodils

 Judith’s jug contains Argyranthemums which are still flowering in her garden

Notice Board

We are glad to hear that Jenny is getting better after her operation and wish a speedy recovery to those members who are under the weather.

Can anyone help out with these requests?

Caroline has requested that Friday Forum annual subscription of £12.00 be paid at the next meeting.  Payment should be made either by cheque made out to Paxton Horticultural Society or cash in a named envelope please.

Next Meeting 

19^th January:  Presentation by Peter and Barbara Murphy entitled “A Year in the life of Rodley Nature Reserve”

Friday Forum Christmas Party 2017

It was party time at Friday Forum and everyone dressed for the occasion

The party kicked off with a Quiz compiled by James

 Decor by Peter

Followed by festive food and flower arranging workshop

..... and just look at the results!

 Did you spot Ann's bird - and can you identify it?

 Phyllis modelling her wreath - but it didn't fit under her bicycle helmet

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all

Next Meeting

January 5^th:  New Year Forum

December's wintery breath is already clouding the pond, frosting the pane, obscuring summer's memory... John Geddes

Presentation:  The Woodland Trust by Roger Parkinson

Roger Parkinson BEM from the Woodland Trust

Roger, a trustee of the Woodland Trust, gave an excellent insight into the work of the organisation.  The Woodland Trust was founded in 1972 by retired farmer Kenneth Watkins who was concerned about the loss of woodlands and recognised the need to protect native British trees.

The trust is involved in protecting trees from pests and diseases as well as from human action and are active in replanting ancient woodlands.  This, in turn, ensures the natural food chain for wildlife as 90% of creatures live on the fringes of woodland.

Roger told us about the trust’s planting schemes which involve groups of all ages from all walks of life including school children and interfaith groups.  The Woodland Trust has planted woods to commemorate the fallen soldiers from WW1, created country parks for leisure activities and has grown and distributed thousand of trees to guarantee the future of woodlands and forests. 

  

If you are interested in the work of the Woodland Trust, joining of volunteering, click on to their website:   https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/

Display Table

 Janella brought pots of Heuchera Berry Smoothie, Fuchsia Lottie Hobby and Cyclamen which brighten up her patio

 Judith’s annual Persicaria Orientalis

Gill’s examples of festive wreaths and arrangements for members to try their hand at next meeting

Notice Board

Caroline has requested that Friday Forum annual subscription of £12.00 be paid at meetings by the end of January.  Payment should be made either by cheque made out to Paxton Horticultural Society or cash in a named envelope please.

Next Meeting

15^th December:  Dress up in your festive outfits for the Christmas Quiz, Flower Arranging session, Free Raffle and, of course, Afternoon Tea!