All’s fair: The wildly popular Organic Growers School has announced plans for a True Nature Country Fair. Described as “a weekend-long celebration of sustainable living in the southern Appalachians,” the event will be staged at Deerfields in Mills River Sept. 28-30.The organization is looking for vendors, exhibitors, sponsors and volunteers. If you’re interested, contact Program Manager Karen Vizzina at karen@organicgrowersschool.org or 342-1849.
Jungle blooms: The WNC Orchid Society will host its annual show at the North Carolina Arboretum on Saturday, March 24, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday, March 25, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The juried plant show will feature award-winning orchid vendors, many of whom are nationally recognized growers and hybridizers. Lectures about specific varieties and growing techniques are scheduled on both days. Rare and unusual plants, specialty lighting and orchid supplies will be available for purchase. Admission is free but parking fees apply. For more information, call 665-2492 or visit www.ncarboretum.org.
Loopy solution: If you’re one of those committed organicists who has has completely given up on cole crops thanks to the pernicious, voracious, incorrigible cabbage moth, think again. The solution ain’t cheap, but it’s reportedly foolproof (or mothproof, at any rate). Moth-Blocker makes galvanized-wire cabbage cages in a variety of sizes. The gizmos are constructed of fine wire, so they admit plenty of light, air and water, and they have removeable lids for plant care and harvesting. The cages are tough enough to ward off deer, squirrels and multiple insect pests, and the company promises a 20-year service life. Priced at $30 to $40 apiece (with bulk-order discounts), this won’t be everyone’s ticket to looper-free cabbage, but it sure beats sevin dust in your slaw. Info at mothblocker.com.
Send your garden tips and news to cbothwell@mountainx.com.
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