WAROOKA Garden Club life membership was presented to Margaret McDonald at her last club meeting before leaving the district.
Joining in November 1993, Margaret was a supportive and well-loved member who was always happy to share her knowledge of plants, or raise seeds, bulbs and cuttings for trading tables and her many friends and acquaintances.
In 2002-03, she joined the committee as the trading table representative; she was joint vice-president 2008-11 and became sole vice-president 2013-14.
She again became trading table convener and organised the monthly competition display, collating com­petitors’ points and arranging prizes for annual winners.
In her Point Turton garden, Margaret had a beautiful display of orchids, roses and ferns, some of which she gave to friends before her move to Adelaide to be closer to her family.
Guest speaker, Rogues Point rosarian John Bradshaw talked about how to grow and exhibit roses.
John has scientifically researched rose growing, especially on Yorke Peninsula, checking soil types, appropriate fertilisers and watering systems, such as standing with a hose, drippers and overhead watering.
His advice was to give 20 litres of water per bush per week, and to always mulch the plants.
When you prune, use clean secateurs and cut to a bud (where there is a leaf).
Night-time temperature determines a rose’s colour.
Chain lock holds climbers in place or tape available in Bunnings does the same job.
John explained the uses of iron chelates in some soils as well as what happens when fire or frost damages the bush.
To finish, he showed how to prepare cut roses for competition; full blooms must make a perfect circle and there must be perfect balance in displaying more than one bloom on a stem.
Meg Bilney