Pakenham WI News - March 2012

Pakenham WI

March 8th 2012 - A to Z of Roses
It was a pleasure to welcome Simon White again, this time to give us the benefit of his extensive knowledge on roses. He took us through a pictorial A – Z of the numerous different varieties, with a lively, interesting and witty commentary on how to grow them in tubs or the earth, and the best positions for different species.

His talk also covered the hard work that goes into exhibiting at Chelsea and Hampton Court flower shows. Answering questions during the slide show as well as at teatime, he gave tips on how to maintain good growth and flowering, the importance of pruning without causing potential disease, pest control, emphasising the need to keep roses well watered, and extolling the virtues of John Innes No. 3 for pots.

Carole H's rather poorly potted rose with three buds was reduced to an upturned, rather short tripod, after Simon had administered surgery with his pruners, assuring Carol that it would thrive if replanted in a bigger pot. Carole will report back.

Simon also brought along his colleague, Peter Chinery, who specialised in clematis and other shrubs, and between them they produced two large tables of roses, clematis and other plants, at a very generous discount. These were accompanied by informative leaflets advising on their maintenance. Many were snapped up and members took full advantage of gaining advice from two such knowledgeable nurserymen. For those interested in knowing more he informed us there will be a Rose Festival on 23rd & 24th June at Peter Beales Nursery at Attleborough.

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There were no birthday posies this month.  Thanks also to Barbara C, Bridget and Lynda P for super refreshments.

Future W.I. events include:-

April 12th 2012 – Bra Sizes
Are you sure you are wearing the right sized bra? Lorraine Mansfield from M & S will be coming along to give advice on this. There will also be a competition that evening: decorate a bra and hang your entry on the washing line in the hall!

April 28th 2012 – Litter Pick.
Help clear the litter from the streets and lanes around Pakenham. W.I. will be providing free refreshments for all who join in. Equipment also provided – please see separate notice for more details.

Please keep an eye on the village notice boards for each month's events. If anything interests you, do come along – you'll be made most welcome.

Ros Griffin
Pakenham W.I.