Garden Structures

We're on the look out for simple, sturdy designs for garden structures that would fit in the TPL gardens. I ran across this site on a Google search: http://www.grandiflora.pro/cool-pics/structures-bridges-and-follies.
Here's one that I think could be scaled down to for different purposes. 

But I really like the idea of follies, something for garden decoration but suggesting another purpose, like a mini-castle or this stump cave.

Whoa. Googled some more. Folly fanciers. Huh. Post ideas that might fit in at the TPL gardens. 

Seedfolks

Lately we have been reading lots of garden-related stories: Seedfolks, Rose's Garden, Plant a Kiss, and more.

But these stories are not just about planting gardens.  They are about so much more, like planting seeds of hope for a future filled with beauty.  About the power of nature.  About how simple gestures bloom into something so much bigger with faith and perseverance.  About a sense of community. 

The messages found in these pages are being realized right here at our library.  

Join us on the 27th of this month from 10am to 12pm to celebrate the library gardens at our spring Gardens Open-house.  See what our community has nurtured from those very first seeds of hope and be a part of its blooming.

WANTED: MASTER GARDENER VOLUNTEERS

The library is looking for Master Gardener Volunteers to take on discrete projects and assist in the maintenance of others. Several Master Gardener volunteers have already contributed to the project and two MGVs maintain a continuing relationship with the project.

Volunteers are needed to

• Design and/or build of raised or vertical beds appropriate for Universal Access Garden, for gardeners of all abilities, including those with physical limitations
• Design and /or build of garden shade structures appropriate for Children’s Garden
• Modify or design/build of composting system
• Create of interpretive signage for Children’s, Butterfly, and Universal Access Garden and composting area
• Assist in continuing  maintenance of Rainbow and Butterfly Gardens
• Assist in recruiting and  managing garden volunteers.

  

If you are interested in this project contact Bernardo Feliciano (Master Gardener) at bfelicia2@gmail.com  or Susan Preece Director of the Library at 725-1727 or director@topshamlibrary.org.

We have both at the TPL!

“If you have a garden and a library, 

you have everything you need.”

― Marcus Tullius Cicero

Happy Spring!

Looking out the window you might not know that spring is officially here.  Yes, Mother Nature seems to be at her spring cleaning and is sweeping out all the remaining snow from every nook and cranny but we are Mainers and have come to expect a good spring snow storm.  We are not about to let it stop us from celebrating!

There is much to look forward to at the library and some great events that will take place in the library's lovely gardens.  Be sure to keep an eye out for details so you can join the fun...

Until then, here are some inspirations for spring activities that you and your children can enjoy no matter what the weather conditions:

DIY Terrariums

Forcing Forsythia

Sprout Egg-Heads

DIY Seed Tape

Happy Spring!

Dyes From Nature

With spring just around the corner, many of us may be having visions of bright colors, budding trees, and lovely flowers fluttering through our minds.  Here at the library, we are anxiously awaiting seeing the beauty of our gardens in bloom!

This month provides many opportunities to brighten our lives and homes and celebrate the renewal of life.  Some of us may also be thinking about egg decorating.  

Source: Spoonful

We suggest experimenting with some natural dyes that you can make yourself at home.

In our neck of the woods, we may not be able to harvest from our gardens this time of year, but there are plenty of items available to use to get some beautiful colors.  You may even have some already in your spice cupboard or refrigerator.  Just click on the following links for some inspiration:

source: Eco Crazy Mom

source: PCC Natural Markets

source: Martha Stewart

You can also find some ideas in these lovely books that you can find at our library or through interlibrary loan:

Happy egg dyeing!

A Snowy Bird Feeder

Our next bird feeder has been inspired by one of our favorite books: 

Stranger in the Woods.

With our current weather, I'd say it's perfect timing.  Here's how to do it: Build a snow man, woman, dog, elephant... whatever you like.  Add a carrot or orange nose; some nut eyes, mouth and buttons; and sprinkle with bird seed.  Get creative and have fun.  

So get outside and play in the snow.  The birds will thank you!

Here's a little inspiration to get you going:

1.   2.  3.  4.