Happy New Year! Somewhat like Santa's elves but without the pointy hats, your Horti Society committee have been busy, busy, busy packing seeds and getting ready for our second Seedy Saturday community event on Saturday 1st February. 

Fantastic and interesting seed donations from Chiltern Seeds, Heritage Seed Library, Marshalls, Plant World Seeds, Thompson + Morgan, Suttons, Real Seeds and Special Plants decanted into smaller seed envelopes so we can share the love. Plus seeds from our own gardens, members' gardens, and more to come from seed companies in January. 

As well as all the popular herbs, annuals and veg, there are some really interesting perennials. Wild flower seeds will once again be available from the wonderful Cynthia. Plus seeds for pollinators, cut flower patches, edible flowers and plants for pollinators. Cosmos has its own basket this year with many lovely varieties. 

Entry is free, as are soft drinks and biscuits for children. If you don’t have seeds to swap, no problem, we’ve got plenty. Donations not expected but appreciated. They help us cover our modest costs. 

Seedy Cafe will be open with hot drinks and homemade cakes as well as a raffle with prizes for adults and children. And Tessa is back with her fantastic seed sowing demos. 

In our dedicated children's area , Critters Corner, we’re launching our annual children's giant sunflower growing competition for our Summer Show. 

This is Harriet, who won last year's competition with her towering beauty. Seeds and growing instructions will be available along with other things to inspire our younger growers. Chiltern Seeds have generously donated a load of Mongolian Giant sunflower seeds for this year’s competition. 

Plenty on offer for all ages. Whatever the weather, we’ll be snug in the Scout Hall lifting the spirits and getting excited about Spring.

Pop in to say hello at our Seed Swap & Social on Saturday 1st February in the Mayfield Scout Hall: 10am to 12:30 

Sue Dickinson

Sad News

Many of you will remember Jan Maughan, who sadly passed away just before Christmas. Jan was a staunch supporter of the Society over many years and will be much missed. She was a regular correspondent by email latterly when her mobility was compromised and always so positive and supportive. I am waiting to hear when her funeral is and plan to go on behalf of the Society.

Tessa Crowe

Keep in touch 

Keep in touch with us at chair@mayfieldhorticulturalsociety.org.uk, Instagram @mayfieldhorticulturalsociety, our website www.mayfieldhorticulturalsociety.org.uk and on Facebook (Mayfield Horticultural Society page).

PS. Don’t forget to keep taking your winter photos and sending them to Showcommittee@mayfieldhorticulturalsociety.org.uk. You just might win a prize in the Summer Show!