​Spring has arrived, and the Village Green Memorial Garden is coming to life! The delightful Tête-à-Tête daffodils are in full bloom, tulips are beginning to push their way up through the soil, and the irises are starting to emerge, hinting at the colors to come. A heartfelt thank you to Trish Lilek Demers, who generously donated curly willow branches to enhance the garden’s pots. She even spray-painted some of the branches in a vibrant chartreuse, perfectly capturing the spirit of the season. It’s a beautiful reminder of how spring brings new energy and color to our surroundings.

The Pollinator Garden behind Crofton Library just received a lovely upgrade with a brand-new stone pathway! This thoughtful addition enhances both the beauty and functionality of the garden, making it easier for visitors to explore and enjoy the space. 

A special thank you to Laura Austin for generously donating the stunning flagstones that now form this charming path. Not only does it create a more accessible and inviting space, but it also helps support the garden’s mission of providing a thriving habitat for bees, butterflies, and other essential pollinators. 

The Crofton Cherry Blossom Festival returns on Saturday, March 22nd, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM, featuring its largest event yet with 40 participants. Enjoy live music by Brendan Lane and the Sugar Packets, six food trucks, free face painting, local artists, and activities from 25 community organizations, including the Crofton Village Garden Club. Attendees can also sign up for water testing with the Rivers of the World Foundation and bring donations for the Crofton Baby Pantry. The festival, organized by the Crofton Civic Association, will create a block party atmosphere with road closures at Eton Way on the inner loop of Crofton Parkway. This free family-friendly event welcomes all!

​To view the map of participants, click the button below.

PROGRAM: Spring Luncheon and New Officer Installation

Members of the club gathered at Walden Country Club to celebrate the installation of new officers, marking the beginning of a new chapter of leadership and continued dedication to gardening and community involvement. The ceremony was followed by a delightful luncheon, filled with conversation and excitement for the year ahead.

The highlight of the event was a presentation from guest speaker Katie Barney, a renowned author, speaker, and instructor on international cooking. Barney shared her expertise on locally grown edible flowers, discussing their culinary applications and historical significance. 

To further engage the senses, guests had the opportunity to sample Barney’s floral-infused delicacies, experiencing firsthand the unique flavors these flowers bring to the table. She also explored the fascinating realm of non-edible flowers, discussing their historical and modern uses—while reminding attendees that these particular blooms should never be consumed.

Adding to the festive ambiance, hostesses Littany Hollerbach (coordinator), Sue Callahan, Beverly Frye, Cindy Hare, Nancy Percivall, and Angela Wetzel transformed the venue with a delightful St. Patrick's Day theme. Tables featured Hellebore centerpieces (non-edible), which were later raffled off to attendees.

The afternoon was a perfect combination of education and enjoyment, leaving members inspired to explore the beauty and functionality of flowers beyond the garden.

HORTICULTURE TOPIC: What is LECA and Should It Be Used for Houseplants

Horticulture Chair Nancy Percivall discussed LECA (Lightweight Expanded Clay Aggregate) and whether it should be used for houseplants. 

​LECA is a growing medium made of porous clay pebbles. These small, round balls absorb and retain water while allowing air to circulate around plant roots, reducing the risk of root rot. Unlike traditional soil, LECA doesn’t break down over time and is reusable, making it an eco-friendly option for plant lovers.

LECA is an excellent choice for certain plants, especially those that thrive in semi-hydroponic setups, like pothos, monsteras, and orchids. It helps regulate moisture levels and prevents overwatering, a common problem with soil-based growing. However, it requires a different care routine—plants in LECA need a nutrient-rich water solution since clay pebbles lack natural nutrients.

If you enjoy experimenting with new plant care methods and are comfortable with hydroponic principles, LECA can be a great alternative. However, if you prefer a more traditional approach, soil might still be the best option for your houseplants.