​MGACRA

Meetings & Activities

February 2020
Speaker- Sherri Graham
​Topic- Trees We Need!

January 2020
Speaker- Guy Mussey
​Topic- Q&A about Gardening Issues

Why include native plants in our gardens?

​John F Westermeier and Laura Jean Westermeier, both Master Gardeners, gave a number of compelling reasons, during a presentation at the Porter Branch of CRRL, Tuesday, September 26!

Plants native to our Rappahannock region, are uniquely suited for our climate and environment. They also contribute to a healthy watershed due to their intricate root systems that filter our waterways. Because they are suited to our area, they grow more easily and are more resistant to local pests and diseases. They provide year-round and food for wildlife. Native pollinators are attracted and flourish. As Mrs. Westermeier said, Native plants can provide the "ultimate right plant in the right place."

The presentation was also filled with information about history of desiring native plants, some current initiatives, and resources for finding native plants to fit any spot in your garden!
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​If you would like a free booklet on native plants of the central Rappahannock area contact Laura Westermeier at Laura.Westermeier@gmail.com for more information.

Making King George County
​even prettier!  

 

The MGACRA volunteers, along with help from the Little Zion Baptist Church, the staff of the KG Citizens' Center, and a generous donation from the James Madison Garden Club of the county, rejuvenated the KGCC's landscape.   It was absolutely beautiful day for this team to install plants following the design of Sherry Graham.

Flora of Virginia at The Porter Library


The Porter Library Branch, in Stafford, VA, initiated its new "Flora of Virginia" exhibit with a presentation on "Container Gardening" -- Wednesday, September 20, Grow vegetables and herbs into the fall with container gardening tips from Master Gardener, Waverly Brown.   Mrs. Brown included steps for the beginning gardener explore the advantages and joys of container gardening. Her advice and helpful handouts will lead participants to a successful venture!
"Growing Native Plants" -- Tuesday, September 26, 7:00–8:00. Master Gardeners Laura and John Westermeier talk about the many beautiful and different native plants found in Stafford and why it’s better to grow native.
 
"The Fungus Among Us: A Basic Course in Identifying Mushrooms" -- Saturday, October 7, 3:00–4:00. Some are to be avoided, some are yummy, and some boost the immune system. Learn to do spore prints, check out field guides, and see what’s growing here.  It’s FUN(gus)!

            Plant Clinics

Local gardeners can get publications,  advice, and lists of resources at a number of area plant clinics, including;
  • Celebrate Del Webb Plant Clinic
  • Falls Run Plant Clinic
  • Fredericksburg Farmer’s Market Plant Clinic
  • King George Farmer’s Market Plant Clinic 
  • Porter Library Plant Clinic
  • Salem Church Library Plant Clinic
  • Spotsylvania Farmer’s Market Plant Clinic
  • Stafford Farmers Market Plant Clinic
More information about the Plant clinics can be found in the "More" tab above, under projects.

                         4th Tuesday                           

   Plants Map at Cossey Park                        Tracy Blevins                


​Every Tuesday at 4 PM there is a demo at 

 https://info.plantsmap.com/help/live-demo-sessions/

​Join a session to learn about hundreds of plants and open a brand new aspect to your own garden!
https://info.plantsmap.com/help/live-demo-sessions/