In August two workshops provided ideas for celebrating the limited material of the winter season.
Carlyne Patterson (Sogetsu), with her students, demonstrated working with metal and green leaves. It was an chance to be creative, playful and finally use some of that scrap metal which has been hoarded for an opportunity such as this!
At our general meeting on 13th August, also our AGM, Peter Leigh from Post Office Farm Nursery spoke about his specialty, hellebores, the heroes of the winter garden. Apart from the commonly cultivated hybridus variety he introduced us to their diverse foliage, colour and style...including double blooms of many shades, with exquisitely delicate markings. It was easy to see why they are often called 'winter roses'. He recommended cutting the stems once a couple of flowers have developed and then putting them into hot water briefly.
Incidentally, Peter's Nursery, at 934 Ashbourne Road, Woodend, is open on Sundays until the 29th September (inclusive), 10 am to 4 pm.
Inspired by last month's meeting, which focused on camellias, Theresa Feile, Sogetsu, sent this photo of her arrangement of tortuous willow and camellias.
next meeting
Just another reminder that our next meeting is at 10.30 on Tuesday 13th August at the church hall, Toorak Uniting Church, 603 Toorak Rd., Toorak.
Peter Leigh from Post Office Farm Nursery will give an illustrated talk about Hellebores. There is now a fascinating range of colours and variety among these 'winter roses'. He will also bring some plants for sale.
Please bring an arrangement which uses them. Elizabeth Angell will demonstrate as part of the meeting.
