The life cycle of all living things is a miracle. That’s a given. Just ask any newborn’s mother or, better yet, ask her grandmother. (Hey, I resemble that remark!) But there is just something about a newly emerged butterfly – it can truly make your day. As I shared in my previous post, the new chrysalis of an Eastern black swallowtail butterfly is a wonderful bright lime green. However, as it matured over its 10 days in this metamorphic state, it turned to a wonderful mixture of browns and grays. Yet, when it emerges the butterfly sports a complete changed body shape ornamented with jet-black wings with jeweltone bling. How cool! My sleeping husband was not as thrilled with this miracle. At least not until he was fully awake.

Getting Ready for the Fair

Please be sure to stop in the Coliseum Building at the Montgomery County Fair for the Federation of Garden Clubs’ Flower Show. There will be two floral-friendly competitions during the run of the fair August 31 through September 5. Anyone living in Montgomery County (and any county adjoining Montgomery County) is invited to exhibit in both shows: Wednesday, August 31 and then Saturday, September 3. Entries are accepted Tuesday, Aug. 30 from 6-9 pm and 7-9 am on Wednesday, Aug. 31. Second show entries are accepted Friday, Sept. 2 from 6-9 pm and 7-9 am on Saturday, Sept. 3. There are still openings in some of the floral design classes. Check out the schedule HERE.

Educational Opportunities

A-List Perennials

You may not be on Hollywood’s A-List but your home can gain some real star power with colorful perennials. Jennifer Radcliff from Natorps (in Cinci) will be the featured speaker at this Saturday’s 10 am fall seminar event at Knollwood Garden Center’s in Beavercreek. Learn about 15 great perennials that would be a highlight in any garden.

Trees in Your Home Landscape

One of the biggest assets to your property might just be a tree. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources’ Division of Forestry is holding an event in Cincinnati on September 14 that might be of interest: The Urban Tree Canopy Forum: Future of Urban Forestry. Cost is $25 for the day, includes morning refreshments and lunch. International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) CEUs and American Planning Association (APA) AICP CM credits are available.  HERE is a link to the event’s brochure.

Sales Alert

Knollwood Garden Center

All of the Beavercreek Sidewalk Sale items that were on sale 50% off have now been reduced another 50%!

All the area garden centers have something on sale right now. Support your local garden center!