Frome Selwood Horticultural Society
Whilst gardeners surveyed their sodden soils and awaited the first signs of spring, members and visitors of the Frome Selwood Horticultural Society remained ever the optimists. They enjoyed not only a talk on Folklore Revisited, but also an AGM where new members were welcomed onto the committee.
Mike Burks, from Gold Club Sherborne, made a return visit twelve months on from his first foray into Folklore and opened our eyes to what seemed so logical, namely gardening by the phases of the moon.
Of the many intriguing ‘facts’ Mike shared, he suggested that when the moon is full, root crops should be planted as soil moisture levels are higher. For harvesting grapes, if they are to be used for wine, they should be picked between the new and full moon, but for a drier wine, harvesting should take place from full to new.
Then to sayings: who had heard of “A pinch of dust in March is worth a king’s ransom”—was this the perfect planting condition? “Put a teddy (potato) in your bed (or pocket) to keep away cramps”—this was verified as successful by one of the members!
Then to protective properties: Never cut an elder completely, as the berries carry good spirits that protect against the bad. Have elder by doors and windows to keep insects away, and place bay and cinnamon to deter moths and ants—until ants cleverly work out an alternative route!
No doubt our past member, Dennis Neate would have known even more folklore, and it was to him and Richard Robinson, Pat Antell and Glenys where the thoughts of members turned, with respect, as the past year was reviewed at the AGM. Gone but not forgotten. The newly elected committee and officers, ably led by President Victoria Turner and Chairman Ray Carver, began the 59th year since the founding of the FSHS. There are more enticing meetings to be enjoyed, trips to travel, sales to attend and produce show to prepare for.
Why not make it your mission to join this growing club. All welcome on the 2nd Tuesday of the month at Critchill School, BA11 4LB, 7.20pm for 7.30pm start.
For more details, please contact Jane Norris jane.norris9@gmail.com 07776208531
or Sue Leather on leather430@btinternet.com
Report by Jane Norris FSHS press officer
Pictured: Mike Burns gave a talk about Folklore Revisited
