Members of the Grand River Garden Club gathered Monday, Aug. 17, at China One, where Doris Provorse presented a program on one of her favorite flowering shrubs, the Rose of Sharon.

“The Rose of Sharon has been my favorite flower for years,” she said.

During her presentation, Provorse shared information about growing and caring for the shrub. She noted that Rose of Sharon is mentioned in the Bible and that its flowers can also be used to make tea.

Provorse said she waters her bushes before winter to make sure they have enough moisture to carry them through the colder months. New plants can be started either by transplanting young shoots or planting seeds from an established bush.

Rose of Sharon grows best with at least six hours of sunlight each day, although it can tolerate some shade. Provorse also noted that the shrub is adaptable, growing in poor soil and tolerating heat, humidity, drought and air pollution. Standard varieties should generally be planted six to 10 feet apart.

Following the program, members recognized Nancy Donohue and thanked her for caring for the flower garden around the statue at the Grundy County Courthouse.

Linda Lamp then reviewed the club’s August beautification selections. Monty and Sarah Bonnett of Town and Country Lane were named Yard of the Month winners, while the Grundy County Health Department received the business beautification award.

President Dorothy Taul shared several upcoming reminders, including the Thompson House tea from 9 to 10:30 a.m. Friday, Sept. 4, at the Thompson House. Supporters of the historic property are hoping to hold a Labor Day weekend planting using previously selected flowers, trees and shrubs similar to varieties that may have been planted when the Thompson family lived there.

Taul also discussed plant propagation, noting that August is a good time to start new plants. She said she has been experimenting with starting plants in both water and potting soil and plans to report back to the club on which method proves most successful.

Members also discussed the club’s plant sale, which in recent years has been held in conjunction with the Leisure Lake garage sale. The group noted the garage sale may be moved to a later date in the spring, which could also affect the timing of the plant sale.

The Grand River Garden Club will meet again at noon Sept. 21 at El Toro Restaurant. Ewing will present a program on hostas.