NATIVE GARDEN SPOTLIGHT: Virginia Sweetspire in Bloom

​Virginia sweetspire (Itea virginica) is blooming in the native garden at the Crofton Community Library, bringing bees, butterflies, and other pollinators to the garden in abundance.

Its fragrant white flower spikes are especially popular with native bees and butterflies. A beautiful swallowtail butterfly was recently spotted visiting the blooms, highlighting the important role native plants play in supporting local wildlife and healthy ecosystems.

Native plants like Virginia sweetspire provide valuable nectar sources throughout the season while adding beauty, fragrance, and seasonal interest to the library garden.
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Visitors are invited to stop by and enjoy the garden as it comes alive with summer pollinators.

Project Co-Chairs Nancy Durose and Littany Hollerbach along with members Lois Nichols, Nancy Percivall, and Cindy Hansen gathered to pull weeds in the Prince of Peace Circle Garden. It was a beautiful morning, and they couldn't have asked for better weather or better company! 

The Crofton Village Garden Club is taking a meaningful step toward environmental stewardship with the launch of its Bluebird Trail project at the Crofton Community Library. This initiative focuses on creating safe nesting spaces for Eastern Bluebirds while enriching the library grounds with purpose-driven conservation efforts. 

Project co-chairs Nancy Percivall and Littany Hollerbach collaborated with a group of Girl Scouts to install five new bluebird houses. Under their guidance, the scouts learned proper installation techniques and gained hands-on experience in supporting local wildlife habitats. This collaborative effort not only strengthened the physical presence of the Bluebird Trail but also fostered environmental awareness among young community members.

As the project grows, garden club members will monitor the houses throughout the breeding season, carefully tracking nesting activity, eggs, and fledgling success. This data-driven approach will inform future improvements and ensure the sustainability of the habitat. Through education, conservation, and community involvement, the Bluebird Trail stands as a vibrant example of how small, local actions can contribute to broader ecological health and appreciation.

Spring is in bloom at the Blue Star Memorial Garden at the Crofton Community Library. White, purple, and yellow flowers are brightening the entrance and adding a fresh touch of color for everyone stopping by.
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If you’re visiting the library, take a moment to enjoy the garden on your way in or out—it’s a nice way to welcome the season.

Crofton is looking festive once again, thanks to the efforts of the Holiday Decorating Committee led by Project Chair Tracy Backus. Tracy hosted a wreath workshop in her home, where committee members helped add festive bows to fresh wreaths.

Once prepared, the wreaths were delivered and displayed throughout the community—including the Village Green, local public schools, the Blue Star Memorial at the Crofton Community Library, the Gold Star Memorial located at the main entrance to Crofton, and Town Hall. Members of the committee contributed in different ways, whether by assisting at the workshop or delivering the wreaths to the various locations.

A warm thank-you to Tracy Backus, Cindy Hare, Diane Gallow, Angela DeLuca, Jane McClanahan, and Diane Smith. Your time and teamwork helped spread holiday cheer throughout Crofton!