Summer Blog Post: May 14th-20th

Ellyn H.

  

Malus ‘White Angel’      

White Angel Crabapple

 Fanshawe was positively in bloom this week, from the first blossoms of the purple lilacs (Syringa vulgaris), the fully bloomed White Angel crabapple (Malus ‘White Angel’), to the ageing blooms of the clove currant (Ribes odoratum). The overcast weather and rain early in the week no doubt contributed to the blooms’ arrival, but it also gave us time to learn about and reflect upon safety.

We learned about the hazards posed to new and young workers, hazards in the workplace, and how to use a fire extinguisher following proper technique. Using a fire and extinguisher simulator, we got to practice putting out a fire in real time. We also enhanced and updated our basic and more specific workplace training through online modules, preparing us for a variety of situations in the workplace. An example of a hazard in horticulture is the mixing of concentrated soluble fertilizer, and therefore we don proper protective gear.

As well as flowers, the weeds were also prodigiously abundant and required pulling as soon as possible. At Z Building, thistles, bindweed, and horse’s tail weeds were removed in astonishing numbers. It’s best to remove as much of the root as possible, and we found some pretty long ones.

 This dandelion root connects over 10 plants

                                                      

                                                     Before the removal of thistles:   

                                                         After the removal of thistles:

  

Extensive pruning of many hydrangeas in the wedge gardens at Z building was undertaken to support healthy growth and improve their appearance.

 The Horticulture program distributed saplings to high school students attending Fanshawe’s Skilled Trades and Apprenticeship day. 3 types of trees were available: Blue spruce (Picea pungens), white spruce (Picea glauca), and white pine (Pinus strobus).

Finally, the greenhouse has been busy preparing orders for its commercial clients. Careful attention is given to the plants as they mature to ensure they reach the clients at the peak time for their needs.

Bedding plants and baskets are among the commissioned produce.

Bonus toad