Frome Selwood Horticultural Society (FSHS) members have recently been looking back at the society’s archives and photos in preparation for this year’s show in August.
The press officer for FSHS, Jane Norris, has been looking at the history of the society through her collection of many albums of cuttings and photos. Jane’s family and FSHS chairman Ray Carver, were founding members of the society back in 1966.
The various different cups we’ve seen from the shows throughout the years have become more than just those presented for the various classes; they have shone a light on the social and gardening changes in the last 57 years.
Everyone knew the rivalry between George Holton, the veg grower, and Stan Lintern, a professional gardener of fruit and veg and budgerigar breeder, but rivalries aside we now have the Holton Cup and Lintern Cup. More up to date are the added classes for art and homecraft, thus remembering the wonderful past women of the society, Joan Biggs and Joan Bailey.
Members also recently heard from Geoff Hobson who gave them advice on the art of growing small trees and shrubs known as bonsai growing, a concept of cultivating ornamental plants, that took root nearly 3,000 years ago in China.
Geoff however had only been growing since 1986 but already had amassed over 150 trees on his small garden. We learned the art of pruning, protecting, propagating and passing on, some at great prices. Pretty well anything can be contained, from oak to elm to maples and anything. The irony for these restricted growth plants however is that they in return have constricted Geoff from going away, such is their need for care, which last year saw both he and his offspring suffer heat stress.
A very successful annual May plant sale saw FSHS coffers replenished, so ensuring regular and worthy speakers. To enjoy many talks, outings and events, do come along to the meetings on the second Tuesday of the month at Critchill School, BA11 4LD, 7.15pm start.
For more details contact Jane on 0777 6208531 jane.norris9@gmail.com
Jane Norris – FSHS press officer
