Conservation Notes

an arrangement supported by a taped circle of vines

beginning an arrangement, using sticks for support

Lisa Lovejoy shoots Lisa Evarts' hands

Lisa Evarts' design using a glass frog

On May 11, at "Everything Old is New . . . Sticks, Stones, Frogs and More" (organized by the Conservation and Flower Design Committees), Lisa Evarts of Hot Petunia Fine Flowers of Northford demonstrated six different techniques for making beautiful flower arrangements without the use of floral foam. Many of us finally learned how to use our inherited glass frogs! Lisa also explained how to minimize the health risks of using floral foam (soak before cutting; wash hands very well after using; do not leave soaking for long periods of time -- to reduce emission of formaldehyde). Thanks to the camera work of Lisa Lovejoy, all attendees could easily view Lisa Evarts' hands at work on the arrangements. The Committees also distributed a flyer on how to obtain locally grown and organic/sustainably grown flowers.

Thanks to the efforts of many, including some members of the Garden Club of New Haven, efforts to repeal the ban on use of pesticides on school fields and playgrounds failed, and the ban will go into effect on July 1.

Enjoy the summer, and don't forget to consult the Conservation Committee's publication, “Where to Buy or Eat Local Agricultural Products in New Haven County Connecticut,” to buy locally produced food and flowers.

Mikey Hirschoff

Chair