PROGRAM: TREASURE'S OF SECRET GARDENS

As spring arrives in full bloom, bringing vibrant color, lively pollinators, and the gentle hum of honey bees, our gardens come alive once more. At today’s garden club program, retired scientist and hobbyist welder Chris Modla delighted attendees with a charming and insightful presentation on the allure of secret gardens, those hidden sanctuaries often tucked behind walls and fences, quietly showcasing the artistry of their creators. Drawing inspiration from The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett, Chris explored both the story’s origins and the essential elements that define these secluded spaces. He highlighted the importance of enclosing walls for privacy and mystery, inviting entrances such as gates or doors, and meandering, curved pathways that spark curiosity. Thoughtful additions like water features, cozy seating, and habitats for wildlife, help transform a garden into a thriving, enchanting retreat. It was a wonderful reminder that whether boldly on display or lovingly concealed, every garden holds the potential for magic.

We were also pleased to welcome two new members to the club today. First Vice President Rena Pogue installed Linda Marquand, sponsored by Rena, and Yuki Adams, sponsored by Nancy Percivall. We are delighted to have them join us and look forward to sharing many seasons of gardening together.

A special thank you to today’s hostesses, Nancy Percivall (lead), along with Heather Marken, Diane Smith, and Karen Frost, for the lovely cherry blossom themed spread, which added a festive and seasonal touch for all to enjoy—and an April Fool's surprise.

PROGRAM: Marland's 5 Million Trees Initiative for a Greener Future

​At today's garden club meeting, members had the opportunity to learn about a statewide effort that is fundamentally reshaping Maryland’s environment. Guest speaker Alfred "Freddy" Bascom, Community Forestry Coordinator from the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, detailed the state’s pledge to plant and maintain 5 million native trees by 2031. This initiative, established through the landmark Tree Solutions Now Act of 2021, represents a massive commitment by the Maryland General Assembly to restore the tree canopy, cool our neighborhoods, and protect the long-term health of the Chesapeake Bay watershed.

A highlight of Freddy’s presentation was the critical role of afforestation—the process of establishing new forest cover on lands that have not recently been forested. Unlike reforestation, which replaces trees in existing woodlands, afforestation expands the state's total canopy into new areas. This effort is supported by the John S. Ayton State Tree Nursery, which is proactively increasing native seedling stock to meet the surge in demand. A primary focus of this expansion is the enhancement of riparian forest buffers, vital "streamside" plantings that act as nature's filters. By stabilizing shorelines and filtering runoff, these buffers are essential for improving water quality, preventing soil erosion, and creating interconnected corridors of wildlife habitat.

Freddy highlighted that while state agencies provide the framework, the success of the 2031 target relies heavily on close collaboration with local organizations and private residents. Freddy emphasized that every tree counts, explaining how data from individual backyard plantings is integrated into the state’s tracking tools to show a complete picture of Maryland's growing canopy.

For Marylanders and local environmental advocates, this initiative offers a meaningful way to contribute to a movement with a multi-generational impact. This is not just a government project, but a community-wide mission where everyone can participate directly, from utilizing the state’s "Marylanders Plant Trees" $25 coupons to organizing small-scale neighborhood planting projects. By focusing on native species and the principles of afforestation, our community is doing more than just beautifying our streets; we are strengthening climate resilience and ensuring a healthier environment for the future. As we move forward, the lessons shared by Freddy serve as a reminder that through collective action, we can help Maryland reach its 5 million tree goal and grow a more sustainable legacy for all.

PROGRAM: Trails and Tales: Exploring Anne Arundel County's Pathways

​Today’s garden club meeting was canceled due to last week’s snowstorm, but it is still a wonderful time to appreciate the walking trails throughout Anne Arundel County.

Imagine breathing in the fresh air, listening to the sounds of nature, and exploring paths that wind through forests, parks, and open spaces. The Friends of Anne Arundel County Trails, led by Darilyn Marinelli, work tirelessly to promote, protect, and enhance the county’s multimodal trail system.

They collaborate with the Department of Recreation and Parks, the Department of Public Works, park staff, and rangers—and support new trail projects that make it easier for everyone to enjoy the outdoors. Even though the meeting didn’t take place, Darilyn shared a PowerPoint of her presentation, which can be viewed by pressing the button at the end of this post.

When the weather improves, take a moment to visit your favorite trail, enjoy the scenery, and appreciate all the work that goes into keeping these trails safe and welcoming for the community.

Learn more about the Friends of Anne Arundel County Trails and find local paths to explore by visiting friendsofaatrails.org.

PROGRAM: The Plant Lady's Guide to Indoor Gardening

​January’s meeting featured a presentation by Catherine Jellison, fondly known as “the plant lady,” focused on indoor plants and terrariums.

Catherine, a library associate at the Crofton Community Library for more than 21 years, began by sharing the story behind the library’s plant collection. Her love of plants, she explained, began with her mother and grew into a lifelong passion. Today, Catherine cares for more than 500 houseplants at home and approximately 150 plants throughout the library, tending to the collection as part of her daily work.

In 2023, growing curiosity from library visitors about the plants led to the formation of the Crofton Houseplant Club. To support learning and accessibility, the plants throughout the library are labeled with both their botanical and common names, along with QR codes that link directly to care information. This system allows visitors to explore plant information independently and at their own pace.

Following the discussion of the library’s plant collection, Catherine shifted focus to terrariums. She displayed several terrariums along with a moss box, explaining how these miniature ecosystems function. She also explored the history of terrariums, tracing their origins to the 19th-century Victorian Wardian cases—glass enclosures that made it possible to transport plants long distances and grow them indoors by maintaining stable, humid environments.

Catherine noted that while Wardian cases revolutionized plant transport and indoor gardening, they also had unintended consequences. By the early 20th century, scientists recognized that these cases sometimes introduced invasive insects, pests, and even plant species into new regions, highlighting the far-reaching ecological impact of transporting plants across the globe.

To learn more about the Crofton Houseplant Club and view upcoming meetings, visit aacpl.net.

Crofton Village Garden Club members and guests gathered today at Walden Country Club for our annual Holiday Luncheon, enjoying a pleasant afternoon of conversation, camaraderie, and seasonal cheer.

This year’s table arrangements were created by hostesses Patty More (lead), Angela DeLuca, Cindy Hare, Shirley Levendoski, Sally Moore, and Rena Pogue. The group designed charming centerpieces featuring hat boxes filled with holiday greens and accented with a fascinator, ornament, and plaid bow. Their creativity added a festive touch to the room.

As part of the celebration, each centerpiece was given to a member at its table, providing a thoughtful keepsake to take home.

​An additional highlight of the luncheon was a presentation by First Vice President Diane Smith, who displayed her White House Christmas Ornament collection and offered a brief history of this cherished tradition.

The White House Christmas Ornament series, created by the White House Historical Association, began in 1981. Each annual ornament honors a different U.S. president or a significant moment in White House history, with designs inspired by period architecture, artwork, or celebrations held during that presidency. Diane’s display provided a lovely glimpse into this meaningful tradition and was enjoyed by all.

We are pleased to welcome Catherine Reardon as a member of the Garden Club. She was installed by Second Vice President Rena Pogue and was sponsored by Yael Beckman. Catherine recently retired and joins the club with an interest in gardening and community activities.