In August our meeting was held at Grindstone Farm. Grindstone is the largest and oldest organic farm in Central New York. They grow crops for local customers through CSA program (Consumer Supported Agriculture) and individual Healthy Boxes. Surpluses are marketed to a supplier in NYC. There are 8 full time employees, in addition to day pickers.There were about 20 members in attendance including a couple of new members and guests. We had a fun tour of a few of the farm's 220 acres. As we walked through the fields, Matt explained the why's and wherefore's of organic gardening on a large scale. Some, but not all of the points mentioned were; the flowers to attract pollinators, shorter rows and native vegetation bordering fields to provide homes for birds and predator bugs that will eat pests, crop rotation, planting and harvesting schedules.
After our tour we caravaned back to the u-pick blueberry field next to the pond for a short business meeting and refreshments. These plants were original to the land when Dick and Vic purchased it. It was a beautiful place and could be a site for a future Garden Club picnic.
September Meeting
With Labor Day being early this year the September meeting is going to be here before we know it, so mark your calendars! The meeting will be September 17th at 7:00 pm at the Park United Mehodist Church, 2 Hubble St, Pulaski, NY. Wayne Docteur from Dexter will be our guest speaker and the subject will be mums.We will also have a plant exchange. Please remember to label your plants with as much information as you can; name, color, height, best growing conditions, etc. Bring 1 take 1, bring 2 take 2, etc. We also have a few members in the club that are just starting gardens so if you have a few extras to bring for them that would be a very nice thing and I'm certain it would be much appreciated!
Planning Ahead
October - We will be having our Harvest Dinner. Time and other activity TBA
November - Our generous friends at Trust Florist & Nursery will be opening their doors to us again for our meeting and wreath making. Watch future newsletters for the date and time for this meeting.
December - Christmas Party. Details still in the works.
Next Year - We will be having a Garden Tour. Co-chairs of the committee are Phill & Barb. More details in the spring.
