Wednesday, March 20, 10 a.m., Orcas Center
— from Helen Huber for Orcas Island Garden Club —
The Orcas Island Garden Club welcomes Jane Wentworth, Master Gardener with a master’s degree in Botany on Wednesday, March 20 at 10 a.m. at the Orcas Center. Jane specializes in identifying and promoting native plants, and in the prevention and management of invasive plants.
Jane will speak about “Invasives,” discussing the definition of a noxious weed and/or invasive plant and why gardeners should care. She will clarify the gardeners’ role in managing this problem since many of these plants begin as ornamentals that gardeners unknowingly place in their garden. Particular attention to San Juan County will be discussed with tips to identify and control these undesirable plants locally.
The Orcas Island Garden Club welcomes new members and encourages gardeners, landscapers, farmers, and those who love nature to enjoy this month’s presentation. After the presentation, visitors are encouraged to stop by our membership table and become a member of the Garden Club. All attendees may socialize, share gardening info and advice, and enjoy treats in the social hour following the meeting.
I am sorry that I will miss this important presentation as I will be in Olympia for the Citizens’ Committee on Pipeline Safety. I wonder if the San Juan County Noxious Weed Board website might list invasive ornamental plants that are discussed at this Garden Club event. Arum italicum is an invasive ornamental plant that has been newly recognized as a problem in our county.