Our luncheon was interrupted by the noisy peacocks as per usual. However Richard Schulhof, Arboretum CEO explained a Canadian study on the peacocks revealed the current progeny were sired all by one male. Apparently the females are smitten by the intensity of color in the eye of the peacock feather – the brightest eye attracts the girls… all of them!

Before walking to the new vegetable garden area, Richard explained that a survey was conducted asking the public for suggestions about the future direction of the Arboretum. 1800 replies focused on two main areas of concern – growing food and conserving water.

In response to the survey an area has been developed. Jill Morganelli, supervising horticulturist became our tour guide. Walking north past Ayres hall she explained the newly installed arbor will support heirloom grape varieties some dating back to the 1500 and 1600’s.

To the left of the new grape arbor is a citrus area that has its own micro-climate.  On the way to the raised bed vegetable gardens there is a water feature that emphasizes water reclamation and conservation. The slant of the path and drainage lead to a 4800 gallon underground reservoir to collect rain and wash water.  It recirculates  through a waterfall and pond complimented with edible plants.

The raised bed vegetable garden has planting boxes at 30 inches high to accommodate handicapped visitors and volunteers gardeners. The remnants of the winter crop were evident, huge perfectly formed kale, chard and other vegetables. Within the vege garden enclosure 5 hens languished in the sun within their own donated coop. Jill explained there is a volunteer team just for the chickens, each has a name starting with the letter “B” and they are popular with children and adults alike.
The raise bed gardens were used as a template for the three 4foot by 8foot structures built by Arcadia and Monrovia Rotary members the prior weekend at the Boys and Girls Club in Monrovia.

REMINDER: Arbor day is April 26, 2013 – Plant a tree!