Calendar of Events

Neiman's Family Market Parking Lot at Dixie Highway and White Lake Road in Clarkston.

Join us at our Annual Native Plant Sale!
We'll have 50+ species of native plants in 2" pots. Perfect for summer planting!
$3/each for flowers; bushes and trees priced as marked.
Cash & Checks Preferred

Saturday, June 9th  10am - 5pm
Sunday, June 10th  12:30pm - 5:30pm

The Historic Indian Village Home and Garden Tour is celebrating the 123rd anniversary of our elegant, historic neighborhood.  This is the  tour's 45th year.  It is the second oldest tour of its kind in Michigan, preceded only by the Marshall Michigan Historic Home Tour.
More information about the Tour.

Lisa will share her story of farming according to "USDA Organic Standards" year round using high tunnels for season extension. You will get a colorful glimpse into her past, present challenges and future dreams. She will enlighten you to current farming practices being used on the farm and the health benefits it provides to the community.

More information about Lisa and her Organic farming can be found on Facebook/Coldframefarm.

Lisa was born in Erie, Pennsylvania and is one of eight children. She moved to Michigan at a young age and has been a resident most of her life. Professionally, Lisa is a registered Landscape Architect who worked in Southeast Michigan from 1994-2011. During that time she worked as a designer on various projects including master planning parks, greenways, residential design, construction administration and community redevelopment. In 2011 she left the corporate world and attended the Student Organic Farmer Training Program at MSU to become a certified Organic Farmer. In 2013 Cold Frame Farm was born on 27 acres in Romeo, Mich, the place she calls home. There she farms a variety of vegetables, herbs, raspberries, strawberries and flowers sustainably, with the goal to become USDA Certified Organic. Currently she farms 2 acres in season, as well as 3- 30x96 high tunnels throughput the four seasons. Her markets include retail at the farm along with 2 local restaurants.

Friday, June 15th, 5:30pm - 8:30pm
Saturday, June 16th, 10am - 3pm

This year the Milford Garden Club will be presenting five beautiful gardens in Milford and surrounding areas. Our Market Place, held in Central Park on Saturday, June 16th only will be the home to vendors of various garden-related items ranging from perennials and garden accessories. Read more to find out times of the event and how you can obtain tickets here.

The Garden Walk is an intimate look at the unique and private gardens in our community. It is co-hosted annually on the third Thursday of June by the Rochester Hills Museum at Van Hoosen Farm and the Rochester Garden Club.

http://rochestergardenclub.org/home-garden-walk/

Visit six unique private gardens in the Grosse Pointes plus the beautiful Trial Gardens and Veterans Garden at the War Memorial. Get your gardening questions answered at the Master Gardeners’ table and conservation questions at the Ecology Center table. A raffle drawing including original water color by Robert Fionda will be held at the War Memorial on Saturday, June 23 at 4:30 p.m.

http://www.gpgardencenter.org/events/

The historic farmsite known as Greenmead was purchased by the City of Livonia in 1976. It serves as a legacy of Michigan's agricultural heritage as well as a multi-faceted recreational and cultural facility hosting a number of major special events each year. This 95-acre parksite was the 1820's homestead of Michigan pioneer, Joshua Simmons. It includes the original farm complex, Historical Village, picnic facilities and recreational areas. The Historical Village at Greenmead was established to protect and preserve several locally significant structures that would have been lost to development at their original locations.
http://www.ci.livonia.mi.us/Departments/CommunityResources/GreenmeadHistoricalPark.aspx
Call 248-477-7375

http://www.yhf.org/2018/03/41st-annual-ypsilanti-historic-home-tour-2018/

Check their website for more details.

Don’t miss this year’s tour, which will feature entry to two special additional venues in addition to private garden views! Whether you make it a day out in Plymouth or an after-work evening respite, you’re sure to find inspiration and relaxation enjoying “Flowers are Forever.”
https://www.trailwoodgardenclub.com/

Richard will define climate change and then downscale those changes to how they will affect Michigan and specifically gardeners. Then the presentation will turn to weather safety. Rich will discuss weather information resources and environmental clues that anyone outdoors should use to stay safe from Michigan's hazardous weather.

Rich Pollman graduated from the University of Michigan with a Bachelor’s Degree in Meteorology in 1992. Rich worked as a forecaster for the National Weather Service (NWS) in Southeast MI from 1992 to 1998. In 1998 he was promoted to senior forecaster at the NWS Office in Morristown TN. Then in 2001 he was promoted to Warning Coordination Meteorologist at the NWS Office in Detroit. Rich has been the Warning Coordination Meteorologist for Southeast Michigan since 2001 serving government agencies, media, schools, and other weather enterprise partners. Rich has also been a member of the Michigan Committee for Severe Weather Awareness since 2001 and now serves as the Chair of the organization.

Since 1975, the Troy Garden Club has organized and sponsored a local garden walk on the second Wednesday of July. The event is the club's major annual fundraiser, whose purpose is to generate funds to support the horticultural endeavors of organizations and individuals. Visit the Donations page to see a list of the organizations we are supporting in 2018.

To view additional details and information on the 2018 Garden Walk, click on this Fact Sheet link.

http://troygardenclubmi.com/garden-walk/

http://shelbytwp.org/gardeners/

Reservations Now Open!

The Master Gardener Society of Oakland County, Inc. is pleased to invite you to join us on a four-day, three-night excursion to picturesque Madison, Wisconsin, the City of Lakes, state capitol, and home of the University of Wisconsin-Madison (UW-Madison), one of the top public universities in the U.S.  Madison is justifiably proud of its scenic location between two lakes, its lovely public gardens, and the famed Dane County Farmers Market which surrounds the state capitol building on Saturdays.

Our tour itinerary will take us through beautiful western Michigan toward Chicago and then northwest to the pristine lakes and peaceful farm country of the Badger State, stopping at several outstanding gardens and garden related venues along the way.  We will travel by luxury motor coach from Pontiac, MI, to Madison, WI, leaving early Thursday morning and returning Sunday evening.

ESTIMATED COST:  $500-550 per person, double occupancy (upcharge for single occupancy)

DEPOSIT:  $150 per person

TOUR ITINERARY WILL INCLUDE:

• Olbrich Botanical Gardens, Madison, WI – Voted one of the top ten most inspiring gardens in North America by Horticulture Magazine, Olbrich Botanical Gardens include an indoor tropical conservatory and sixteen acres of outdoor display gardens, among which is the famed Thai Pavilion and Garden. The Bolz Conservatory is home to Olbrich's Blooming Butterflies - an annual event where free-flying butterflies emerge from chrysalises daily and fly around the Conservatory.
• Allen Centennial Garden, Madison, WI – Located on the 2.5 acres surrounding the historic agricultural Dean’s Residence, this garden was designed to complement the home and its existing plantings, including a larch tree planted in 1899. It is a living laboratory and public botanical garden of the Horticulture Department at the UW-Madison.
• University of Wisconsin-Madison Arboretum & Gardens, Madison, WI – A diverse landscape and learning environment in an urban setting, the 1,200-acre arboretum includes woodlands, wetlands, ponds, restored prairies and savannas, and gardens. Among the gardens are the Longenecker Horticultural Gardens, the Viburnum Garden, and the Wisconsin Native Plant Garden, all designed and maintained to display plant diversity, illustrate gardening practices, educate and inspire.
• Raker-Roberta’s Trial Gardens, Litchfield, MI – A major commercial wholesaler of custom-grown plugs and liners (young plants), Raker-Roberta’s supplies more than 3,000 plant varieties to greenhouses and nurseries in the U.S. and internationally. They are also a leader in trialing in North America and continuously research and evaluate new and existing plant varieties in their outdoor Trial Gardens.
• Fernwood Botanical Garden and Nature Preserve, Niles, MI - Fernwood is a place where people, plants, and nature come together, with gardens tucked into a landscape made up of both natural and cultivated areas. Interesting outdoor sculptures and two Railway Gardens are showcased in the garden while species of endangered Michigan plants and animals are protected in the nature preserve.
• Anderson Japanese Garden, Rockford, IL – A beautiful outdoor setting that inspires the mind and energizes the soul, this twelve-acre landscape of streams, waterfalls, winding pathways, and koi-filled ponds has been rated one of North America’s highest quality Japanese gardens for more than a decade.
• La Paloma Gardens, Rockford, IL – This private garden began in 1985 with five roto-tilled rows carved out of a former horse paddock. The rich soil produced atomic vegetables that first year and the owners were “hooked” on gardening.  Over the years that followed, a formal vegetable garden, a Swan Pond, a Koi house, an Italian courtyard and various other features were added to make these elegant gardens what they are today.
• Black Point Estate & Gardens, Lake Geneva, WI – An excellent example of Queen Ann architecture, this 20 room “cottage” was completed in 1888 as a summer lakeshore retreat by Chicago beer baron, Conrad Seipp. Overlooking beautiful Lake Geneva, its eight acres of grounds include formal estate gardens and a newly installed Wisconsin woodland garden.
• Northwind Perennial Farm, Burlington, WI – Located on an early 1900’s farmstead, the Farm grows and sells regionally hardy perennials, offers landscape design services, and operates a unique garden shop filled with art, garden accents and home décor. The lush display gardens illustrate the cutting-edge plant knowledge of the owners.
• Rotary Botanical Garden, Janesville, WI – An award-winning botanical showcase on 20 acres in the heart of Janesville, The Gardens occupy the site of an abandoned sand and gravel quarry. Now, after an amazing clean up and design project sponsored by local Rotary Clubs, this non-profit treasure features over 24 different garden styles and 4,000 varieties of plants.
• Evening Free Time: Enjoy local shops and restaurants, explore the local area – Madison’s State Street Pedestrian Mall or West Towne Mall – or, just put your feet up and relax at the hotel.

And there is still more to be added to this exciting itinerary!

MGSOC, Inc. is affiliated with The Michigan State University Extension - Oakland County

TOUR COSTS INCLUDE:

• Three nights hotel: one night in Rockford, IL, and two nights in Madison, WI.  Breakfast included daily.
• Friday Breakfast-To-Go, snacks and water on the bus, and other meals as determined.
• Transportation by luxury motor coach with reclining seats, DVD monitors, and restroom.
• Entrance fees to all gardens and venues.
• All gratuities except for meals you purchase on your own.
• Many places to shop for plants, books, or garden art.
• Convenient Name Tag pouch for carrying your itinerary and small supplies into the gardens.
• On board movies, fun games and prizes.
• Useful products and reading material in your Welcome Bags.
• MSUE Master Gardener Continuing Education hours (number to be determined).
• Opportunities to meet, learn from, and share ideas with gardeners in other states.
• A fun time with fellow garden lovers and friends, old and new.
• Amiable tour guide, Margaret Dolan, and an awesome Trips and Tours Team!!!

Space is limited, so be sure to reserve your space by sending in your Deposit Form and check for $150 without delay. 

2019 MGSOC Garden Tour-Deposit Form

The education topic is : “Up With Vines” presented by Sue Grubba.

We invite you to attend our November General Meeting which will be held on Tuesday, November 13, at 6:30 p.m. The location is Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church, 5631 North Adams, Bloomfield Hills. Mini-meals will be available at 6 p.m., a brief business meeting begins at 6:30 p.m. and our speaker begins at 7 p.m., Mini-meals are $3, and the charge for bringing a guest is $5. Guests are always welcome!

MGSOC members should have all received a hard copy of our proposed new bylaws. We will be voting to approve these new bylaws, and please be prepared by having read them in advance of the meeting. We will be passing out ballots for a quick vote. All questions should have been addressed by now.

The Michigan Department of Agriculture & Rural Development - MDARD was notified by the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection that infected boxwood may have been sold at retail locations in Michigan.

 Boxwood blight, a serious fungal disease that attacks boxwood (a popular landscape shrub), has been detected in Michigan for the first time, in three separate locations in Oakland County.

 Wreaths that are displayed outdoors are a potential concern if they are exposed to the elements. The biggest risk comes when people dispose of the infected wreaths after the holidays.

 MDARD recommends that anyone who has a wreath containing boxwood plant parts should consider it infected and dispose of it by burning or, even better, double-bagging it and including it with their trash for deposit in a landfill.

 Read more about Boxwood blight at: MDARD
(https://www.michigan.gov/mdard/0,4610,7-125--485223--,00.html)

and MSU
(https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/have-a-closer-look-at-your-boxwood-wreaths-this-holiday-season).

Are you a Master Gardener or a home gardener who wants to expand your experiences and knowledge? MSU Tollgate Gardens are the perfect place for you. Here is the opportunity to continue your education by working side by side with seasoned gardeners. These smart and welcoming people are always happy to share their knowledge.
Being a Tollgate volunteer has many advantages: participating in monthly programs with speakers, sharing your gardening experiences and making new friends. Garden workdays are every Saturday morning from 9 a.m. until noon with a hot dog and potato salad lunch provided after the workday.
Tollgate is a 160 acre "oasis" located in the heart of Novi at the corner of Meadowbrook and 12 Mile Roads. Just look for the long white fence.
More information is available at www.tollgate.msu.edu or 248-347-3860 ext. 251.

To look at the volunteer schedule visit http://tollgate.msu.edu/volunteering/ and select the calendar.

Tollgate Gardens
MSU Tollgate Educational Center
28115 Meadowbrook Rd.
Novi, MI 48377

Randy Baker is an award-winning naturalist and owner of Naturalist Endeavors.  He has over 25 years of experience in providing conservation and environmental education.  His three years of PhD work on white-tailed deer give him an in-depth knowledge of these frequent garden visitors.  His presentation, “Deer and Living with them as Gardeners,” will discuss the life of the white-tailed deer including both the good and the bad.  Their impact on the environment, gardens and landscapes and other animal species will be discussed.  Why they have recently become a problem to home owners and gardeners will also be covered.

Laurie Tennet - Beautiful Botanicals

Coffee and refreshments are served at 9:15 a.m., and the program starts at 10:00 a.m.
Open to the public. There is a $5 non-member donation. Reservations are not required.

Four great topics:

Perennial Plant Geek – Top Picks for the Michigan Garden
Bethany Troy, Perennial Garden Manager,
MSU Horticulture Gardens.

Smart Planning for Your Vegetable Garden
Rebecca Kranz, MSU Extension.

The Top 10 Things Affecting Trees
David L. Roberts, Ph.D., Senior Academic Specialist,
College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, MSU.

Toxic Plants and Their Friends
Peter H. Carrington, Ph.D., Assistant Curator,
W.J. Beal Botanical Garden, MSU.

MSU Plant and Soil Sciences Bldg.
1066 Bogue Street
East Lansing, MI 48824

$40.00 for CAMG members & MG Trainees
$50.00 for non-member Currently Certified EMGs
$55.00 all others

Registration Information
CAMG Website
Event Flyer
Registration Deadline - Jan. 19, 2019, but seating is limited so register early!

"Daylily Hybridizing" presented by LaVere Webster, who decades ago founded and designed the Historic Daylily Display Garden and the Harris Olson Memorial Spider Display Garden. He has since written numerous articles for the American Hemerocallis Society and will be sharing a number of his Daylily creations. Laverne is also a noted Hosta hybridizer and MDHS member.

$3 charge for guests (can be applied toward membership)
Register at meeting upon arrival.
Light refreshments will be served and,as always, guests are welcome.

Note: Date change from Jan. 21st to Feb. 4th

Step into our tropical oasis and shop for houseplants that are sure to brighten up your home or office! Cranbrook House & Gardens Auxiliary volunteers will be available to answer your plant questions while you explore our demonstration gardens and plants for purchase.

Free admission. Plant sale proceeds support the preservation of Cranbrook House & Gardens, part of the Cranbrook Educational Community's National Historic Landmark campus.

Cranbrook House & Gardens
380 Lone Pine Road
Bloomfield Hills, MI 48304

https://housegardens.cranbrook.edu/events/winter-greenhouse-sale

David Michener is the Associate Curator at the University of Michigan Matthaei Botanical Gardens and Nichols Arboretum.  David holds a B.A. with Highest Honors in Botany from University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill and an M.A. and Ph. D. in Botany from Claremont Graduate School, Claremont, California. He has written several technical reports and papers, co-authored Taylor’s Guide to Groundcovers and, most recently, Peony: The Best Varieties for Your Garden.   His discussion will cover this most recent book, including the history of peonies, the different types available and complete growing information for 194 of the best varieties.

VMS Category:  Community:Beautification: Public Areas

Michael Genovese - Dahlia’s Tubers Dos and Don’ts

Coffee and refreshments are served at 9:15 a.m., and the program starts at 10:00 a.m.
Open to the public. There is a $5 non-member donation. Reservations are not required.

Meadow Brook Hall
350 Estate Drive
Rochester, Michigan 48309-4401

Greetings Gardeners!

Warm up winter during the 2019 Smart Gardening Conference in Grand Rapids on Saturday March 2nd! Held in tandem with the West Michigan Home and Garden Shoe downtown at DeVos Place, our day will be jam packed with excellent presenters! Even if you don't live close to the Grand Rapids area, bring your friends and family for a fun weekend at the conference and the Home and Garden Show!

Your conference registration name badge will provide free access to the West Michigan Home and Garden Show all weekend long!

Conference topics and speakers: Nationally noted presenter William Cullina, Director of the Coastal Maine Botanic Gardens, will captivate you with “Sugar, Sex and Poison-Shocking Plant Secrets Caught on Camera”. Richard Hawke, Plant Evaluation manager and scientist for Chicago Botanic Gardens will explore great perennials for the Midwest that also support pollinators. This year’s speaking lineup also includes a look at the truth about GMO’s and how they could potentially affect the gardener of the future.

We are proud to offer a number of scholarships raised from the generosity of last year’s attendees during our silent auction. Compliments of West Michigan’s commercial garden community, the silent auction offered again this year will ensure scholarship dollars are available for years to come.

Everyone looks forward to our Smart Gardening complimentary gift bag, which will feature not only an exquisite plant, but also a waterproof IPM pocket guide for perennials.

Register here: https://events.anr.msu.edu/2019GRSmartGardeningConference/

Start out with pancakes, coffee, cocoa, sausages and of course, Tollgate maple syrup! Then jump on the hay wagon to head out to the sugar bush, where you can watch sap get cooked into syrup, participate in tree tapping, visit the traditional sugar camp and watch our draft horse get to work!

A hands-on, maple-flavored event for the whole family!
Adults: $ 15
Children 3-12: $ 12
Children 2 and under free

Registration closes midnight Friday, March 8.
Registration is nonrefundable.
Register here!
Activities are outdoors, so please dress for the weather!

Tollgate Farm and Education Center
28115 Meadowbrook Road
Novi, MI 48377

Learn how to make technology work for you in the garden. Caston Thomas is the owner of InterWorks and Cohost of The Internet Advisor Radio Show on WJR. During his presentation, he will introduce us to several of the gardening apps that are available today that can help any gardener throughout the gardening season.

VMS Category:  Community:Beautification: Public Areas

Go-Gardening-Go; Growing Great Gardens is Here

There is not much better than a homegrown tomato picked right off the vine. Growing Great Gardens Conference (GGG) is providing the next best thing. Learn how to grow that perfect tomato on March 16 from 8 AM to 4 PM at Wayne County Community College District-Downriver Campus, 21000 Northline, Taylor. The Taylor Conservatory Foundation, Taylor Garden Club and Wayne County Community College District-Downriver Campus, are hosting three wonderful gardening professionals,  speaking on a variety of garden-specific topics that are not only knowledge based but interesting, too.

“What a great group of gardening aficionados we have lined-up for this year's GGG” says Committee Co-chair, Patty Donahue while Co-chair, Nancy Smith adds “Not only are the presenters well respected in their fields but they are discussing topics which so many of us either can relate to or want to learn about”.

Columnist for the Pittsburg Tribune-Review and regular contributor to several gardening publications, including Fine Gardening Magazine, Jessica Walliser, has an approach to bugs that is refreshing at this time where there is so much concern about the loss of pollinators. Walliser will shine some light on the methods needed to attract beneficial insects to the the garden with Attracting Beneficial Bugs to Your Garden: A Natural Approach to Pest Control lecture.

Craig LeHoullier, of Ralegh, NC, respected tomato expert and author, will be presenting Epic Tomatoes for Midwest Gardens. LeHoullier will address growing tips interspersed with helpful facts, cool tomato history and plain good 'ole stories for epic tomato success. A former scientist, LeHoullier treats his yard as a laboratory and is the go-to adviser for many in the plant industry. He also co-founded the Dwarf Tomato Project and can be heard on the shows Growing a Greener World, The Splendid Table and A Way to Garden.

12 Secrets to Happiness in Your Garden addresses a topic most everyone has felt at one time or another; too much garden and not enough time. Author and Horticulturist, Carol Michel will parlay all her secrets for finding happiness in gardening with a mix of humor and plant knowledge, strengthening the love of gardening again. This prolific author with titles including Potted and Pruned: Living a Gardening Life, Homegrown and Handpicked: A Year in a Gardening Life, and her latest work, The Christmas Cottontail: A Story for Gardeners of All ages, is a graduate of the Purdue University School of Agriculture.

An additional bonus class, also being led by Michel, Garden Tools Beyond the Hoe,  is for those who sign up for the extra lunchtime class.

GGG is open to everyone, non-master, master and those who want to earn five education hours for the master gardening program.

Registration fee is $50. includes four classes, continental breakfast, lunch, handouts, plus great networking with old and new friends, too.
It is $60, with the extra bonus class.

Another much anticipated Garden Market will also be taking place throughout the day and you don't even have to be registered for the classes, as it is open to the public mentions.

Please visit www.taylorconservatory.org to register or call 888-383-4108 for more info.

PDF Flyer with more info.  -  2019_GCC_details

Oakland Conservation District is now accepting orders for the spring tree and shrub sale. The 2019 selection includes a wide variety of evergreens, hardwoods and shrubs, along with potted blueberries and asparagus roots. Thanks to bulk ordering and generous local nurseries, these native and non-invasive species are available at discounted rates.

Quantities are limited.
Order by Tuesday, April 9th

Pick up date & location:
Saturday May 4th

Waterford Oaks Greenhouses
1580 Scott Lake Rd
Visit the Oakland Conservation District website for more details or download the order form

Meadow Brook Garden Club
2019 Garden Club Programs

March 22 - Planted Pots with a Professional
April 26 - Phenology and Garden Rhythms
May 17 - Toxic Plants and their Friends
Sept. 27 - Nature’s Getaways
Oct. 25 - Awesome Autumn Arragements

Meadow Brook Hall
350 Estate Drive
Rochester, Michigan

Coffee and refreshments are served at 9:15 a.m., and the program starts at 10:00 a.m.
Open to the public. There is a $5 non-member donation.

Reservations are not required.

Kathy Miller - Planted Pots with a Professional

Coffee and refreshments are served at 9:15 a.m., and the program starts at 10:00 a.m.
Open to the public. There is a $5 non-member donation. Reservations are not required.

Meadow Brook Hall
350 Estate Drive
Rochester, Michigan 48309-4401

"Drama in the Shade! My Love Affair with Ferns and Other Shady Companions"
Julia Hofley, noted writer and contributor to Michigan Gardener magazine,
will be speaking on 'Shady Companions'. She is also President of the Hardy Plant Society and frequent speaker at garden clubs and conventions.

First United Methodist Church
1589 West Maple Road
Birmingham, 48009

$3 charge for guests (can be applied toward membership)
Register at meeting upon arrival.
Light refreshments will be served and,as always, guests are welcome.

Oakland Conservation District is now accepting orders for the spring tree and shrub sale. The 2019 selection includes a wide variety of evergreens, hardwoods and shrubs, along with potted blueberries and asparagus roots. Thanks to bulk ordering and generous local nurseries, these native and non-invasive species are available at discounted rates.

Quantities are limited.
Order by Tuesday, April 9th

Pick up date & location:
Saturday May 4th

Waterford Oaks Greenhouses
1580 Scott Lake Rd
Visit the Oakland Conservation District website for more details or download the order form

Continuous Color in the Landscape

Tuesday, March 26, 7–8:30 pm, Room 304

Act #: 8018-G FEE: FREE

Great landscapes are beautiful all year, with April through October color from flower and leaf and plenty of interest even in the offseason. What you plant is only part of the answer. How you place and maintain plants and other garden features is more important. Here are design techniques and gardener's tricks for extending, stalling, and coaxing repeat shows from flowering plants, from landscape designer and author Janet Macunovich. Sponsored by the Friends of Troy Seniors.

Instructions for online registration are available at rec.troymi.gov/registration. Alternatively, you may register in person Mon–Fri 8 am–8 pm or Sat 8:30 am–12:30 pm. For mail in registration, complete the attached form and mail/deliver it to: Troy Recreation Dept, 3179 Livernois Rd, Troy, MI 48083. We do not accept phone registrations.

Join Cranbrook House & Gardens Auxiliary for a study day with Advanced Master Gardener Janet Macunovich in the Cranbrook House Library. Janet will cover three topics designed to increase your green-thumb knowledge and prepare you for the 2019 gardening season.
The study day includes light refreshments in the morning, a boxed lunch, and plenty of opportunities to chat with Janet!
Cranbrook House & Gardens
380 Lone Pine Road
Bloomfield Hills, 48304

General Admission: $80 | Cranbrook House & Gardens Auxiliary Members: $75
Register at https://housegardens.cranbrook.edu/events/2019-03/study-day-janet-macunovich
or call 248.645.3149
Registration deadline: Friday, March 22, 2019 at noon.

Oakland Conservation District is now accepting orders for the spring tree and shrub sale. The 2019 selection includes a wide variety of evergreens, hardwoods and shrubs, along with potted blueberries and asparagus roots. Thanks to bulk ordering and generous local nurseries, these native and non-invasive species are available at discounted rates.

Quantities are limited.
Order by Tuesday, April 9th

Pick up date & location:
Saturday May 4th

Waterford Oaks Greenhouses
1580 Scott Lake Rd
Visit the Oakland Conservation District website for more details or download the order form

Oakland Conservation District is now accepting orders for the spring tree and shrub sale. The 2019 selection includes a wide variety of evergreens, hardwoods and shrubs, along with potted blueberries and asparagus roots. Thanks to bulk ordering and generous local nurseries, these native and non-invasive species are available at discounted rates.

Quantities are limited.
Order by Tuesday, April 9th

Pick up date & location:
Saturday May 4th

Waterford Oaks Greenhouses
1580 Scott Lake Rd
Visit the Oakland Conservation District website for more details or download the order form

Ever wonder what a cinnamon tree looks like or how it’s harvested? What about a peppercorn plantation, or which orchid produces one of the world’s most expensive spices? Michele Eddy’s presentation will answer these questions and more. Experience the fascinating world of spices with James Creek Sutlery’s founders, Stu and Michele Eddy. Twice presenters to Greenfield Village’s Master Gardeners, they bring 20 years of experience and present an overview of their certified organic and naturally grown sweet and savory spices from around the world. Enjoy viewing a unique portion of Michele’s recent trip to a Beijing, China spice and farmer’s market.

VMS Category:  Food: General Gardens

Creating Your Garden Palette
Saturday, April 13, 2019 – Full Day

Keynote Speakers:

Margaret Roach – A Way To Garden – A 365-Day Garden
(Live Webinar with Q&A)

Sue Gaviller – 1) Introduction to Color Theory and
2) Working With Color Theory in the Garden

Dr. Richard L. Bitner – Designing with Conifers: Making the Best Choices for Year-Round Interest in Your Garden

Includes a fabulous garden market with vendors selling plants, garden art and gifts. Live jazz entertainment by guitarist Ron English and Jerry McKenzie’s Just Jazz.

Our 7th Annual Educational Conference for new and experienced gardeners – you need not be a Master Gardener to attend!

Registration begins January 1, 2019.

Early bloomers registration fee $80, after February 12, 2019, $90.

Includes continental breakfast, lunch, snacks and program materials.
5 hours of Master Gardener Education Credits.

MSU Tollgate Educational Center
28115 Meadowbrook Rd.
Novi, MI 48377

Are you a Master Gardener or a home gardener who wants to expand your experiences and knowledge? MSU Tollgate Gardens are the perfect place for you. Here is the opportunity to continue your education by working side by side with seasoned gardeners. These smart and welcoming people are always happy to share their knowledge.

Being a Tollgate volunteer has many advantages: participating in monthly programs with speakers, sharing your gardening experiences and making new friends. Garden workdays are every Saturday morning from 9 a.m. until noon with a hot dog and potato salad lunch provided after the workday.

Tollgate is a 160 acre "oasis" located in the heart of Novi at the corner of Meadowbrook and 12 Mile Roads. Just look for the long white fence.

More information is available at www.tollgate.msu.edu or 248-347-3860 ext. 251.

Whether you have 10 square feet or 10 acres this is the perfect time to begin planning your custom backyard habitat for your furry and feathered friends, as well as insects and amphibians.

This four-part workshop presented by the Oakland Conservation District is perfect for all experience levels. Big yard or small, every habitat counts!

Learn everything you need to know about designing your own wildlife habitat.

Program Fee: $75 includes all materials & soil survey

For more information contact instructor
Jay Blair (810) 869-1311

To be held at the Waterford Township Library, 5168 Civic Center Dr. 48329

http://www.oaklandconservationdistrict.org/create-a-backyard-habitat.html

The Oakland Conservation District is a federally mandated, entity designed to promote sound soil and water practices and provide natural resource information and technical assistance to Oakland County residents, municipalities and governments.

Richard Thomas will discuss the Piet Oudolf Garden project in Detroit on Belle Isle.

What is Oudolf Garden Detroit?

Oudolf Garden Detroit is an all-volunteer group dedicated to placing and maintaining a Piet Oudolf designed garden on Belle Isle in Detroit. The Belle Isle Conservancy, a 501(c)(3) dedicated to improving Belle Isle for the people of southeast Michigan and its visitors, serves as the fiscal sponsor for Oudolf Garden Detroit. Piet Oudolf is the internationally renowned Dutch garden designer and horticulturist who created the High Line in New York City and the Lurie Garden in Chicago. His public gardens transform people and places.

https://oudolfgardendetroit.org/

VMS Category:  TBD

Friday, June 21, 2019 – 5:30 pm - 8:30 pm and
Saturday, June 22, 2019, from 10:00 am until 4:00 pm.

The Milford Garden Club presents its’ 24^th Annual Garden Walk and Marketplace. Rain or Shine.  Featured on this year’s walk will be many unique and diverse residential gardens in Milford and the nearby surrounding area.

Advance reservations may be purchased for $12.00 beginning June 1, by visiting the Milford Garden Club web site at www.themilfordgardenclub.org and completing the mail order form.  Reservations may also be purchased at the reduced rate by visiting one of the following downtown Milford locations:  Clothing Cove, Acorn Farms, Blossoms on Main, or Bogie Lake Greenhouse on Bogie Lake Road.

On the day of the walk pre-purchased reservations must be presented at the Marketplace, which will be located in the parking lot of the Milford United Methodist Church, 1200 Atlantic St, Milford.  Reservations purchased at the Marketplace on the days of the event will be $15.00.

For more information, email Janie Cryderman at the Milford Garden Club web site www.themilfordgardenclub.org

Genesee County’s largest Garden Tour is just around the corner! Please join us in touring eight gardens demonstrating a passion for gardening on Genesee County’s Northeast side from Davison to Otisville Sunday June 23, 10 AM to 5 PM.  The ticket and directional arrows will help guide guests on this self-guided tour.  Guests will see a variety of gardens a reflection of homeowner’s personalities. Master Gardeners will be available at every site to answer questions. Each garden has a an educational component. For example, one garden is a certified Monarch Waystation. Another gardener taps sugar maple trees. Our hope is that visitors will enjoy the gardens and learn something too.

Tickets will serve as guides with detailed directions and description of each site only $10.00, $2.00 for children under 12. Tickets will be available on May 1 at many local nurseries. See website http://GCgardentour.weebly.com for locations and more information.  Each garden the day of the tour will also have tickets available.

NOTE:  Gardens open only on this specific day and time.  PLEASE BE CONSIDERATE!

Master Gardener Association of Genesee County Michigan is open to all without regard to race, color, national origin, gender, religion, age, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, marital status or family status. It is an affirmative-action equal opportunity employer.

Kay McCullough  (810) 610-0545

Michigan Garden Association Genesee County
605 Saginaw St., Suite 1A
Flint, MI 48502
Birdieball@aol.com

A series of bi-monthly events that offer educational and recreational opportunities for visitors to venture the farm in the nighttime and explore fascinating natural science topics.
The hikes will take place the last Friday of every other month. These events are open to the public and will particularly appeal to scout groups, families, and anyone with a thirst for knowledge and adventure.

Each hike will incorporate different themes fitting to the month or season.
Advance registration will be required
$10 each session
Light snacks and beverages provided
Below is the tentative 2019 schedule.

June 28th @ 8:00 p.m. - Nightlife and Wilderness Skills
August 30th @ 8:00 p.m. - Batty about Bats
October 25th @ 6:00 p.m. - Owl Prowl and Folklore
December 28th @ 6:00 p.m. - Constellations of the Night Sky

Registration and more info can be found at the Tollgate Farm website:
https://www.canr.msu.edu/tollgate/events/night-hikes-on-the-farm

MSU Tollgate Farm & Education Center
28115 Meadowbrook Rd, Novi, MI 48377.

VMS Category: Environmental Stewardship:Native Plants

SOLD OUT

Madison, Wisconsin, the City of Lakes, state capitol, and home of the University of Wisconsin-Madison (UW-Madison), one of the top public universities in the U.S.  Madison is justifiably proud of its scenic location between two lakes, its lovely public gardens, and the famed Dane County Farmers Market which surrounds the state capitol building on Saturdays.

Our tour itinerary will take us through beautiful western Michigan toward Chicago and then northwest to the pristine lakes and peaceful farm country of the Badger State, stopping at several outstanding gardens and garden related venues along the way.  We will travel by luxury motor coach from Pontiac, MI, to Madison, WI, leaving early Thursday morning and returning Sunday evening.

DATES:   July 18-21, 2019 (4 days, 3 nights - Thursday through Sunday)
ESTIMATED COST:   $500-550 per person, double occupancy (upcharge for single occupancy)
DEPOSIT:  $150 per person

Contact Margaret Dolan to be added to the wait list 248-770-0524|
dolan.margaret100@gmail.com

2019 MGSOC Garden Tour-Deposit Form

VMS Category: Community:Quality of Life

A series of bi-monthly events that offer educational and recreational opportunities for visitors to venture the farm in the nighttime and explore fascinating natural science topics.
The hikes will take place the last Friday of every other month. These events are open to the public and will particularly appeal to scout groups, families, and anyone with a thirst for knowledge and adventure.

Each hike will incorporate different themes fitting to the month or season.
Advance registration will be required
$10 each session
Light snacks and beverages provided
Below is the tentative 2019 schedule.

August 30th @ 8:00 p.m. - Batty about Bats
October 25th @ 6:00 p.m. - Owl Prowl and Folklore
December 28th @ 6:00 p.m. - Constellations of the Night Sky

Registration and more info can be found at the Tollgate Farm website:
https://www.canr.msu.edu/tollgate/events/night-hikes-on-the-farm

MSU Tollgate Farm & Education Center
28115 Meadowbrook Rd, Novi, MI 48377.

VMS Category: Environmental Stewardship:IPM-General

Meadow Brook Garden Club
2019 Garden Club Programs

Sept. 27 - Nature’s Getaways
Oct. 25 - Awesome Autumn Arragements

Meadow Brook Hall
350 Estate Drive
Rochester, Michigan

Coffee and refreshments are served at 9:15 a.m., and the program starts at 10:00 a.m.
Open to the public. There is a $5 non-member donation.

Reservations are not required.

VMS Category: Community:Beautification: Public Areas

Meadow Brook Garden Club
2019 Garden Club Programs

Oct. 25 - Awesome Autumn Arragements

Meadow Brook Hall
350 Estate Drive
Rochester, Michigan

Coffee and refreshments are served at 9:15 a.m., and the program starts at 10:00 a.m.
Open to the public. There is a $5 non-member donation.

Reservations are not required.

VMS Category: Community:Beautification: Public Areas

November Meeting Handout (.PDF) - print and bring to meeting.

Holiday Potluck and Silent Auction
Tuesday, December 10, 2019
Doors Open at 5:30 PM

You’re invited to join us at the MGSOC Holiday Potluck & Silent Auction
Printable Flyer with all this detail.

Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church
5631 North Adams Road, Bloomfield Hills

This year we are opening
the doors early at 5:30pm to give our guests extra time to socialize and bid on your favorite Silent Auction
item. Our Guest fee will be waived for this meeting so bring your spouse, significant other, friend or neighbor.
All members or guests must bring a dish to be shared that serves 10-12 people.

Please sign up ahead, if possible so that we have a variety of selections. The Society will provide the Ham and
Turkey and our members and guests will provide all the delicious side dishes, and desserts. Please contact
Kathy Sobanski, Phone 248-703-3801 or e-mail: sobanskk@yahoo.com if you can help or want to sign up for a
dish.

Again, this year we will be entertained by the Troy High School Choir. We will join them for a few Holiday
Carols ending with the annual singing of the “12 Days of Gardening”.

Those who desire may bring a generic $10 gift for the Gift Exchange. Bring a gift and get a gift.
Participation is voluntary, but it is fun!

We will also be collecting canned goods for Gleaners Food Bank this year.
If possible, please remember to bring canned or non-perishable goods to donate.

We hold our Silent Auction to raise funds to support the Society events and activities during the year. So, bring
your cash, check or credit card to do some Christmas/Hanukkah shopping. We have a wide variety of items
this year in our Silent Auction; Theater and Movie Tickets, lots of Gift Certificates to local restaurants,
greenhouses, gift shops, Hair Salons and more. Still need a Holiday Porch Pot or Centerpiece, we’ll have them.
Jewelry and wonderful Paintings by some of the most talented artists in our area. The Fundraising Team has
outdone themselves again this year.

If you would like to volunteer to help setup or tear down & pack up; please contact Denise Brown at deniseraeb@gmail.com or 248-693-9177.
If you would like to donate an item for the Silent Auction remember; for each donated item, you will earn a
chance to win a $50 Gift Card to be drawn at the end of the evening. You don’t need to be present to win.
Note – donated items must be new unused items only.