Friends of Library hosts planting talk

The Friends of the Sussex-Wantage Library hosted a Saturday afternoon pre-season talk on container planting.
Horticultural expert Cynthia Rauth of Andersen Farms classically explored and shared the concept of container gardens with a white board, a concise paper hand-out and plant visuals from the farm.
“I have not been deputized by the posy police. We shouldn’t fear plants and if we’re using creative containers, we should not think we’re doing something wrong, Rauth clarified.
Rauth discussed the difference between annuals and perennials, establishing a trick to remember the difference. Annuals must be newly planted every year. They don’t regenerate every spring. Perennials are permanent and will regrow every season.
According to Rauth, all types of containers can be utilized to grow plants.
“It’s best to have a container with good drainage,” said Rauth.
Roots will develop fully in larger containers, whereas, smaller containers may need more water because of the limited root space. It was all good according to the horticulturist.
With a personally written pamphlet, Rauth listed numerous container plants that do well in full sun, partial sun and shade. She also shared with the group, the idea of a four- season floral decorative container. In early spring and mid- summer, the container can grow insect repellers like citronella, marigolds and geraniums. Rauth suggested adding pumpkins, gourds and mums to that container to have an autumn harvest appeal. After the first frost, the container can be replaced with evergreens, holly and cypress to give it a holiday theme. Rauth reiterated the fact that nothing is incorrect when it comes to planting containers. She displayed the many Andersen Farm examples using old rain boots, colanders and other kitchen accessories as well as vessels like wheelbarrows, sand boxes and old toys.
The presentation ended with a question and answer session where enthusiastic gardeners sought more information, made suggestions and were just itching to get the planting season under way.