The Garden Digest: Connecting Green Thumbs in Santa Cruz

Discover the latest gardening events and exchanges in Santa Cruz County

Gardening enthusiasts in Santa Cruz County have a plethora of opportunities to connect with fellow green thumbs and expand their plant collections. From plant exchanges to workshops and festive wreath-making events, the local gardening community is thriving. In this edition of The Garden Digest, we explore some of the upcoming events that will delight both seasoned gardeners and those just starting their horticultural journey.

Santa Cruz Garden Exchange: A Haven for Plant Lovers

On Saturday, from 8-9 a.m., the Santa Cruz Garden Exchange will take place in the parking lot of Santa Cruz Live Oak Grange. This monthly event provides a platform for gardeners to come together and share their plant treasures. Participants are encouraged to bring seeds, bulbs, succulents, houseplants, fresh flowers, and other garden-related items to trade within the community. The exchange fosters a sense of camaraderie among gardeners and promotes the growth of diverse plant collections. Even if you don’t have anything to bring, you are still welcome to participate. However, it’s important to remember that anything not given out must be taken back home. For more information, visit the calendar at www.greengrange.org or contact santacruzgardenexchange@gmail.com.

Fall Plant and Art Sale: A Delight for the Senses

Mark your calendars for November 25-26, when Garden Club member Linda Beatham will host her annual fall plant and art sale at 3175 Scriver St., Santa Cruz. This event promises a wide variety of plants, art, and plant art for attendees to peruse. With special guests Martha Croyser, Denise Kraft, and Terry Olsen, the sale will offer an array of new treasures, including soaps, cards, and more. Whether you’re looking to add to your plant collection or find unique gifts for loved ones, this sale is not to be missed. Visit lindabeatham.com for more information.

Winter Roses Workshop: Nurturing Your Blooms

Birdsong Orchards in Watsonville invites rose enthusiasts to their Winter Roses Workshop on December 9 from 10 a.m. to noon. This informative session will guide attendees on winter pruning and spring fertilization techniques to ensure healthy and vibrant roses in the upcoming growing season. Pruning roses during the winter months is crucial for their overall health and productivity. To secure your spot and learn more about this workshop, visit birdsongorchards.com/products/winter-roses-workshop.

Libations From the Garden: A Toast to Nature’s Bounty

On December 2, the UC Santa Cruz Center for Agroecology presents Libations From the Garden, a unique event for those interested in creative mixology. Led by local herbalist Paula Grainger, participants will learn how to make fruit and herbal syrups, shrubs, bitters, and flavored salts using garden-grown ingredients. The workshop will include alcohol-free mocktail tastings and provide attendees with recipes to recreate these delightful concoctions at home. The event will be held both in-person and as a Zoom webinar, with pre-registration required at https://center-for-agroecology.company.site/products/Libations-from-the-Garden-p599387186.

Holiday Wreath-Making: Adding Festive Flair to Your Home

The Children’s Museum in Santa Cruz invites individuals of all ages to a holiday wreath-making event on December 15 from 5-7 p.m. Located at 1855 41st Ave No. 10 in Capitola, this festive evening will provide an abundance of fresh greens, ribbons, and holiday decorations for participants to create their own unique wreaths. Pricing per wreath is $30 for members and $40 for non-members. Due to space limitations, chaperones are requested to limit their presence to one per paid registration. To secure your spot and find more details, visit www.sccmod.org/event-details/holiday-wreath-making.

Conclusion:

Santa Cruz County offers a vibrant gardening community with a wide range of events and opportunities for plant enthusiasts. From the Santa Cruz Garden Exchange to workshops on rose pruning and mixology, these events provide avenues for gardeners to connect, learn, and expand their knowledge. As the holiday season approaches, the wreath-making event at the Children’s Museum offers a chance to infuse festive flair into homes. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, these events provide an excellent opportunity to engage with like-minded individuals and nurture your love for all things green.


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