Gardening on 5th Street celebrates 10th year
By JULIET BRISKIN | Country World Central Texas
May 3, 2001 -- Gardening on 5th Street is a horticulture enthusiast's dream come true. Held each year in Waco, the event serves as a gardening education forum and shopping extravaganza. This year the annual event took place April 21-22 and despite the unbelievable winds, the event was an overwhelming success. Located on the grounds of the historic Earle-Harrison House, Gardening on 5th Street celebrated its tenth anniversary in 2001.
The highlight of the garden show was the soon-to-grow Sid and Jane Jones Children's Garden and all proceeds from the event will go towards the building of this new addition. The designers of the children's garden, Jane Taylor and Deb Kinney, both of Michigan State University and creators of the 4-H Gardens on that campus, gave talks about the new garden and were available all weekend to answer questions.
According to Beverly Fallon, chairperson of Gardening on 5th Street, the garden will be interactive, providing all types of fun and educational activities for children. "We want people to know that this children's garden is something that we want to give back to the community," said Fallon. "It's something we want Central Texans to be proud of."
The new butterfly house spread its wings this year and provided an opportunity for kids and adults to view over 200 butterflies of six different species. The house had caterpillars in various stages of development allowing children to witness their metamorphosis into butterflies.
"The kids really like the house," said Stephanie Pierce, a student volunteer. "They can catch a butterfly and hold it in their hand and look at it. The kids are fascinated by the fact that they can hold a butterfly."
Other highlights included 70 vendors selling herbs, native plants, gardening equipment and more. Speakers and demonstrations were held all weekend providing visitors with an abundance of valuable information.
The speakers covered such topics as proper tree pruning techniques, conservation and care of quilts, and butterflies. Some of the demonstrations included proper composting techniques, how to make floral baskets and a walking tour of landscape fertilization.
Gardening experts were everywhere answering questions and offering suggestions on how to make your garden perfect.
Tours of the Earle-Harrison House were available and guides provided historical information about the house and the people who lived there.
Approximately 6,000-8,000 people visited the historic home and gardens this year and if you were not able to attend, be sure to mark your calenders for 2002.
