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The Wild Garden Party 2002 Victoria Flower and
Garden Show: On July 7, 2002, after eight months of meetings, ten community groups came together at Royal Roads to transform a dry 35’ x 100’ grassy site into a lush, water-wise, organic garden in just four days. Under the dappled shade of a large maple emerged a backyard composite of native plants, organic vegetables, fruit trees and herbs, a compost centre, greenhouse, cold frame, and a rustic conceptual house. All of these were tied together by a chip trail, a dry stream bed and numerous native and water-wise plants including herbaceous perennials and shrubs. Everyone thought the display was permanent -- and more than a few times people commented that Royal Roads should buy it and install the plants! The Flower and Garden Show Judges, Marjorie Harris (Globe and Mail), Judith Jones (Seattle Flower and Garden Show) and Judy Newton (UBC Botanical Garden) voted the display garden worthy of receiving a gold ribbon for the “Best in Display” category. Marjorie Harris wrote that the Wild Garden Party was one of the “topnotch” display gardens (Globe and Mail July 27, 2002) at the Victoria Flower and Garden Show. The display also won the People’s Choice award and comments from visitors (many of whom came back to have a second look) ranged from pleased to thrilled. Some overheard remarks were: "This is just
great! I'd like to live here. " Many remarked that it was the best display in the show. There was also much expression of interest in the use of compost and of native plants. Perhaps one of the most significant comments came from Terry Morrison, Executive Director, Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary: "Congratulations are due to all of you who helped to give the native plant gardening concept such a boost in the gardening community. It was an accomplishment to be proud of! Just think of it: “Native Plant Gardening - the People's Choice!" With minimal funding
and an enormous amount of time, effort and coordination, the members of
the Wild Garden Party - supported by various suppliers - made this gold-ribbon
winning display garden come together. The volunteer staff and coordinators
should be greatly encouraged and pleased not only with the visual results
of the garden, but with the interest that was kindled in visitors who
toured the garden. The Wild Garden Party Partners would like to extend
their heartfelt thanks to all contributors and volunteers who made this
project possible. Well done! |
The
Wild Garden Party Tour |
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