The GCW new Mentoring Program—wherein our club program members share skills with other members—began with a surprisingly busy fall season. Projects included:
pond building
bush and tree pruning
a lesson on how to create BioChar
a tour of a drip irrigation system
two visits with members interested in raising chickens to yield eggs, fertilizer, and pest control.
Some requests were simple and practical: A relatively-new homeowner called to ask “Could you walk my property with me? I don’t know how to recognize some of what’s growing here.” And a seasoned gardener requested input on how to relocate established plantings to maximize their potential while preserving her neighbors’ views of the Sheepscot. It was fun to meet such a considerate home owner with an impressive array of plantings.
Now that we are “in the season,” it’s time to dig into pruning, planting, dividing, and design projects. Seedlings need to be “planted up.” Soil preparation is an ongoing challenge. Being aware of the latest information on invasive bugs and plants is key to good stewarding not just our own land but the health of our region.
Sharing seasoned watering knowledge in the face of more dry summers to come is another way that we can help each other. We know that well-mulched, raised-bed vegetable gardens are easier to irrigate than flat-planted rows. Deck pots and planters are ideal for no-weed salad greens, and plastic liners hidden in attractive coconut fiber reduce watering flower displays significantly. Drip irrigation is a very effective way to use less water and get it to exactly where you need.
What tips can you share with GCW members?
'Match-making' is an art form in many walks of life—how about applying it to gardening? As the Mentoring Program’s administrator, I’m happy to put you in touch with folks who can answer your questions or give you hands-on instruction. In turn, think about what skills you offer others to advance our collective enjoyment of gardening. Or, do you have experience or expertise with a specific plant species? Please let us know as there may be an ailing plant out there that you can help!
Remember: Many people may not know something that comes natural to you. And no matter how many years a gardener has played in the dirt, there’s always something new under our vivid Maine sun that an old hand would love to know. That information may be in your pocket. Give it some daylight. Nothing satisfies more than teaching and sharing.
Canny Cahn is a member of GCW
and Chairs the GCW Mentorship Program.
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