Solent Fuchsia Club News
Cancellation of January’s Club Meeting
Due to the possibility of severe weather conditions, the Club’s committee has decided to cancel the January meeting for 2012 and begin the new season by having the first monthly meeting (“LET’S GET STARTED”) on 7th February.
The venue and times being the same as for 2011.
The Club’s 2011 Trip To Wisley
We set off onto our annual visit to RHS Wisley. A few invited guests accompanied us this year to enjoy the day.
The weather was somewhat unsettled with intermittent showers to contend with, but most people seemed to enjoy the occasion.
The annual display of fuchsias in the glasshouse were as impressive as ever and many ideas for next year’s show were seen. The glorious standards using Laura should be a must!
A very interesting circular procumbens caught the eye as well.
Wisley as usual was in glorious colour and many other floral attractions kept us all busy for the day. We felt somewhat sorry for the poor bee that was ‘glued’ to the prairie flower by its heavy nectar catch after a heavy shower of rain but later saw it safely fly away.
We visited the shops at the end of the day for a few memorable purchases.
The raffle in the bus was an interesting event keeping us all engaged and cheerful on the way home!
Carrie Hands
The Club’s 2011 Trip To Kew
Twenty nine members and friends travelled to Kew Gardens on Sunday 22nd May. The day was slightly overcast, with a breeze, but fortunately, no rain was expected. For the first time we were using a different coach firm. The seats were closer together and narrower than our regular coach. A scheduled comfort stop on our journey there enabled us to stretch our legs.
Upon our arrival, we were issued with a map to assist in helping us to plan our route, thus ensuring we were able to see our favourites. A small bus was available which certainly saved a lot of walking. It was convenient because it would stop as and when requested (there was a charge for this service).
We set off walking towards the Azalea and Bamboo area. A few Rhododendrons and Azaleas were still in flower, but most were slightly past their best. Ducks with ducklings patrolled here, ready to have their photos taken.
The Bamboo was magnificent. I hadn’t realised how many different varieties there are. The imported cabin from China, with Bamboo used instead of timber for its construction was impressive.
We headed for the Rose Garden, and the wish list was started. The next place to visit was the greenhouse which had a distinct tropical atmosphere. The clipped hedge surrounding this entire area was Ivy. I peered into it to see if there were any supports, but no, it was completely free standing. I would be interested to know exactly how this was done. Large topiary of Holly trees and mature Holly hedges led us around the circumference. Whoever had the vision to grow these is to be congratulated.
The Water Lily house was nearby. Blue Water Lilies in full flower more than made up for missing the Azaleas.
Feeling weary, we headed for the nearest refreshment area, fully intending to have a cooked lunch. After seeing the prices we hastily changed our minds and had a piece of cake and a cup of tea instead!
A word of warning, if visiting Kew – take sandwiches.
Refreshed, off we went to the Temperate House. Here we found the Fuchsia Trees of original species in full flower. There were large specimens of other species planted in the border with a few cultivars in full flower. Most impressive was the area of at least 10sq ft covered by Procumbens in excellent condition.
Our next visit was the Rock Garden which was well laid out, all plants named and the wish list got longer. We walked past the Alpine House and headed for the Princess Diana Greenhouse. We only managed a brief walk through the different temperature zones. These ranged from arid desert to rainforest.
It was then time for a quick cup of tea before boarding the coach to come home.
Many thanks to Carrie for organising the trip, Dot who dealt with the raffle and the driver who took excellent care of us.
Mary Knight
The Club’s 2011 Visit To White Veil Fuchsia Nursery
The trip to White Veil was very enjoyable.
A total of fourteen persons travelled in four cars. Unfortunately, thick mist was prevalent during the journey to the nursery.
It was agreed by all those present, that the quality of the fuchsia plants were superb, and consequently, numerous were purchased.
It was then decided to visit the Three Legged Cross public house for lunch, which turned out to be an excellent but inexpensive meal.
The visit was made complete when the sun broke through by lunchtime.
Verdict: A good time was had by all.
Mary Knight
Are you interested in growing fuchsias?
Need to know what that fuchsia is called?
Want to know how to over winter them?
Interested in talking to and meeting other fuchsia growers?
Fancy going on organized day trips?
Then come and join us!
We always welcome new members.