Local gardeners looking to the past

Nova Scotia gardeners are going back to their roots for the provincial garden clubs convention here next month.

"Pardon the pun," said Dawn Westhaver, chairwoman of the Pictou Garden Club’s host committee.

"But we’re focusing on tried and true heritage and heirloom plants and on native varieties that grow well where they are— and they’re just beautiful."

The theme for the June 5 and 6 convention of the Nova Scotia Association of Garden Clubs is Preserving the Past for our Future, with guest speakers explaining the benefits of preserving heritage seeds, historical ornamental vegetable gardens, and growing and buying food locally.

Global weather changes coupled with increasing numbers of genetically modified plants means many basic food and ornamental plants are getting scarce, Ms. Westhaver said.

Heirloom plants were once commonplace and popular. Heritage plants have cultural and historic associations, and may be heirlooms at the same time, she explained.

"Our genetic diversity is just going out the window," she said, adding that most countries now have sanctuaries where seed samples are preserved "so we won’t be left with nothing to grow."

At the convention, Quebec filmmaker Gwynne Basen will present two sessions, It All Begins with a Seed and The Beauty of Biodiversity. Floral designer and greenhouse owner Pam Ross will discuss heirloom and native plants. Organic farmer and Seeds of Diversity Canada member Michelle Smith will explain how to save seeds. Scotsburn organic grower and New Glasgow farm market director Ty Murray will present information on the movement to produce and buy local food.

"We’re trying to get across that people can take back responsibility for what they’re eating," Ms. Westhaver said.

"You can grow vegetables and flowers together. With only a small space, anyone can grow some small things for themselves, their neighbours or the food bank."

The convention, scheduled for the Pictou Legion, also features vendors, entertainment, a banquet and prizes. Organizers from the Pictou club and others from the Association’s Eastern District expect about 250 gardeners to attend.