Plant material can create bold, strong areas of color, form and texture by manipulating foliage and free space. This style is influenced by different schools of Ikebana – the Japanese art of flower arranging and has evolved into other styles that have broken with tradition and represent a new age in style.

Anna O'Kelly, President of the Federated Garden Clubs of Maryland and a student of the Sogetsu School of Ikebana, guides members through the principles of Ikebana. Members participated in a hands-on workshop creating their own sculptural design.

Scroll over the photo below and use the play button or arrow buttons located at the top of the picture to view photos.​​​​​​​​​

In January 2020 the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) announced that floral foam would be banned from all RHS shows from 2021. World-famous horticultural events, including the RHS Chelsea Flower Show, no longer allows designers to use floral foam in their displays, prompting floral designers to use alternative eco-friendly techniques or products. This decision made many people aware for the first time that floral foam is not biodegradable and is part of a larger movement in the floral industry to adopt sustainable practices.

Speaker Susie Middleton, member of the Dorchester Garden Club and incoming President of the Federated Garden Clubs of Maryland showcased alternative eco-friendly products and demonstrated two different sustainable techniques, creating designs in identical containers.

Members enjoyed a holiday luncheon at the Blue Dolphin Seafood Bar & Grill along with the Club's annual silent auction fundraiser, 50/50 raffle and jewelry sale. All proceeds benefit ongoing projects of Crofton Village Garden Club.

Members and guests played games and were led in a holiday sing-along by Paul Heward.

Scroll over the photo above and use the play button or arrow buttons located at the top of the picture to view photos.​​​​​​​​​

Project Chair Harriet Kiilehua, assisted by member Cindy Hansen, conducted a hands-on workshop where members created patriotic-themed floral arrangements for veterans. Following the workshop, the arrangements were delivered to veterans residing in local assisted living facilities.

Scroll over the photo below and use the play button or arrow buttons located at the top of the picture to view the photos.

Winter weather can be both inspiring and stressful when extreme temperature fluctuations arrive unexpectedly. Preparing for such unpredictable situations can help us enjoy the seasonal changes and ensure that our gardens, trees, and favorite plants are protected from any damage.  

Brock Messinger, a certified arborist representative with Bartlett Tree Experts and familiar face at the Historic Linthicum Walks and in the Crofton neighborhood, addresses preventive care (tree trimming and pruning), tree health maintenance (soil conditions), and tree health inspections (cold stress, winter drought, tree insects and diseases).

For more information on tree care and maintenance, click the button below.