PROGRAM: Groundcovers: Great Alternatives to Turf Grass

​​Groundcovers are versatile, low-growing plants that play multiple roles in the garden, from controlling weed growth and stabilizing slopes to enhancing texture and beauty. Kathy Jentz, editor of Washington Gardener magazine and author of Groundcover Revolution, shared her expertise on these hardworking plants, highlighting the best options for our region and offering practical insights for their use.

Attendees learned how groundcovers can be a sustainable and visually appealing alternative to traditional turf grass, reducing water usage, minimizing mowing, and enhancing soil health. Some excellent groundcover choices are native violets (Viola spp.), which provide essential nectar for pollinators, while wild ginger (Asarum canadense) thrives in shade with its distinctive heart-shaped leaves. For a burst of spring color, creeping phlox (Phlox subulata) offers vibrant blooms, and golden ragwort (Packera aurea) brightens shady areas with its cheerful yellow flowers. Lily of the Valley (Convallaria majalis) is another excellent choice for shaded areas, spreading steadily and offering fragrant, bell-shaped white flowers in spring. In sunnier spots, sedum (Sedum spp.) stands out for its drought tolerance and year-round appeal, while green-and-gold (Chrysogonum virginianum) spreads quickly, adding a lively touch with its golden blossoms. These groundcovers not only enhance landscapes but also support biodiversity and sustainable gardening practices.

For those looking to replace their lawns entirely or simply enhance their gardens with resilient, attractive plantings, groundcovers offer a practical and beautiful solution. With the right selections, anyone can create a more sustainable, low-maintenance landscape that supports local ecosystems while adding year-round interest.

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.

PROGRAM: The Healthiest Food at Any Scale: The Gardens and Farms of the Future

Today's program, featuring speaker Ben Friton from The REED Center, explored innovative approaches to sustainable food production. He discussed how biomimicry and ecosystem reintegration can create resilient, self-sustaining gardens and farms without reliance on irrigation, fertilizers, or pesticides. Attendees learned about vertical growing structures, soil health optimization, and scalable agricultural models suited for both urban and rural environments. The program highlighted the power of nature-inspired solutions to produce nutrient-dense food while restoring ecological balance.

PROGRAM: Osprey on the Patuxent

​The osprey, often called the "fish hawk," is a striking symbol of Chesapeake Spring. These majestic birds are commonly seen gliding over local rivers, their keen eyes scanning the water below for a meal. Once an imperiled species, the osprey’s remarkable recovery is a testament to successful conservation efforts—efforts that have been driven by the dedication of experts like Greg Kearns, Senior Park Naturalist for the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission at Patuxent River Park.

Through Greg's leadership in the development and monitoring of osprey nest platforms, he has provided critical support for breeding pairs in the region. These nest platforms, often placed in strategic locations along the river, have become essential for encouraging nesting in areas where natural nesting sites are scarce.

In addition to nest platforms, Greg’s efforts have extended to osprey banding programs, which involve marking young ospreys with identification bands to track their movements and health over time. This data is invaluable in understanding the birds' migration patterns, lifespan, and overall success in the wild.

​The osprey’s recovery is one of the great success stories in wildlife conservation, but the work is far from over. Ospreys, like many species, are still vulnerable to environmental changes such as habitat loss, pollution, and climate change. Ongoing monitoring, nest site preservation, and community engagement remain vital to ensuring that ospreys continue to thrive in the Chesapeake Bay region.

​Welcome New Members

CVGC is delighted to welcome two new members, Peggy Smail and Rosanne Harner, sponsored by fellow member Angela Wetzel. Membership Chair Margo Antonelli presented them with their CVGC yearbooks and a lovely plant. We are excited to have Rosanne and Peggy as part of our garden club family!

​Proposed Slate of Officers

In the absence of Nominating Chair Sally Moore, Interim President Trish Demers presented the proposed slate of officers for the 2025-2027 term, which was approved by the membership.

          President • Margo Antonelli
          First Vice President • Diane Smith
          Second Vice President • Rena Pogue
          Treasurer • Charlotte Sazama
          Recording Secretary • Jessica Kruse
          Corresponding Secretary • Patty More
          Parliamentarian • Trish Demers

The installation of our new officers will take place at our March meeting at the Walden Country Club.

PROGRAM: A Festive Gathering at Crofton Country Club

​CVGC members and guests gathered for an afternoon of celebration and camaraderie at the Crofton Country Club. Hostesses Faye Tolliver, Angela DeLuca, Diane Smith, Paulette Heward, Patty More, and Shirley Levendoski outdid themselves, transforming the tables with whimsical Santa centerpieces. One lucky recipient at each table was able to take a centerpiece home as a special holiday keepsake. It was the ideal backdrop for members to relax, share stories, and reflect on the year's accomplishments.

As part of the festivities, the traditional 50/50 raffle was held – a holiday favorite that adds an extra layer of excitement to the luncheon. Proceeds from the raffle directly benefit the club’s ongoing projects, which aim to beautify our community, support local environmental initiatives, and promote gardening education for all ages.

No holiday gathering is complete without some great music, and this year’s luncheon was no exception. The talented duo PJ and Neal provided live entertainment, setting the tone for an afternoon of celebration and joy.