Haliburton County Master Gardener (HCMG) Shelley Fellows said a free workshop being held in Minden later
this month will teach people new ways to beautify garden spaces at home and throughout the community.
The non-profit group is hosting a hands-on workshop for seniors aged 55 and up on Oct. 18. Beginning with
classroom instruction at the Minden Hills Cultural Centre in the morning, attendees will learn about sustainable
gardening practices before getting their hands dirty later in the day at Hyland Crest Long-Term Care – where HCMG is planting a new garden.
The project is being supported by a $10,000 seniors community grant through the Ontario government and can
accommodate up to 25 people.
“The reason we’re doing this as a two-parter is you can learn good things in a classroom setting, but if you really
want to remember them and build your skills, then getting some hands-on experience is important,” said Fellows, who will be leading instruction.
The training component will focus on how people can adjust their technique to account for physical limitations – ensuring anyone who wants to participate, regardless of condition, can do so.
Fellows will also offer tips on how to properly plant different species – from bulbs to shrubs to flowering
perennials. She noted all participants will receive a gift bag containing gardening supplies seniors may find helpful, such as an ergonomic trowel.
“No prior gardening experience or tools are necessary; the program will supply all of the skills development advice
and tools needed free of charge,” Fellows said.
The workshop begins at noon and includes a light lunch. Fellows expects to wrap things up at Hyland Crest by 3:30.
She noted the new garden will be called ‘Betty’s Place’, in honour of a former Hyland Crest resident who recently
passed away. A dedication ceremony will be held at 3:15 p.m.
“We heard Betty’s story when we sat down to meet with Hyland Crest staff about this project. She lived there for
four years and loved to garden – we all thought this would be a great way to honour her,” Fellows said.
The space will feature 150 daffodils, 160 crocus and 80 grape hyacinths, as well as elderberry shrubs, phlox and
peonies, cranesbill geraniums, false sunflower, coral bells, astilbes, ladies mantels, brunnera and some hostas and
ferns.
Fellows said there will be some native plants featured too, like bleeding heart cardinal flowers, creating a bright,
colourful display.
“There’s a lot of purples with pops of pink, yellow and red,” Fellows said. “Something nice for the residents and
visitors there to enjoy.”
Pre-registration is required. Anyone interested can sign-up online at haliburtonmastergardener.com or by calling 705
488-2613.
