Teaching Greenhouse blooms with community spirit

Things are coming up roses for the Thorold Garden Club after a fruitful Seedy Saturday at NC.

On February 7, the club hosted its second annual Seedy Saturday at the Teaching Greenhouse, which drew more than 500 visitors on a cold winter day. The event served as a fundraiser for the Thorold Garden Club, with proceeds earmarked for student bursaries and hands-on learning.

“The Thorold Garden Club believes Seedy Saturday is more than a gardening event – it’s an investment in the future,” said Tami Lyons of the Thorold Garden Club. “It connects young people and families with food security, sustainability, and environmental stewardship.”

The greenhouse was packed with variety, ensuring there was something for everyone to dig into with a vibrant marketplace featuring local artisans and seed vendors – where locals participated in a ‘seed swap’ – and children’s activities led by NC students, where young visitors explored the natural world through microscopes.

The adjoining classroom hosted expert speakers, including NC retiree Bill McDonald (former program coordinator of NC’s Commercial Cannabis Production program), who shared insights on cannabis cultivation for home growers.

Lyons applauded NC horticulture students who were involved with making the event a success. Twelve student volunteers from the School of Environment and Horticulture, along with greenhouse employees, assisted with the event.

“We were especially proud of the students, who did a wonderful job developing activity ideas, setting up, and working with community children throughout the day,” said Lyons. “Their enthusiasm, creativity, and engagement helped make the event welcoming, educational, and fun for families.”

Horticultural Technician Jennifer Laverty noted that horticulture students Faye De Castro, Sayra Bhatti, and Avery Ringer were heavily involved with organizing the ‘children’s zone’ for the event.

“Their focus was to have fun and creative activities that showcased nature,” she said. “I want to give them credit for all their hard work.”

The event also introduced the Teaching Greenhouse to many local residents for the first time. Laverty said she noticed many ‘newbies’ among the regulars.

“I can always tell if it is someone’s first time in our greenhouse by the way they their eyes take it all in,” she said. “I could see them awestruck – especially in zone 3 with the hydroponic vegetable set up.”

While the funds raised have yet to be tallied, Lyons noted that they hope to repeat this year’s success in the future.

“We would be thrilled to partner again with Jennifer and the students and staff at the Niagara College Greenhouses, whose support and participation helped make the day such a success,” said Lyons.