Spring is Mauldin Garden Club's favorite time of the year. As you head out to work in your garden, please consider planting for the birds and butterflies. This can be as easy as adding a few herbs to your existing garden or can expand to a Bird and Pollinator friendly area complete with a solar powered water fountain.

Bird seed is a great addition for adult birds, but mommas and baby birds need protein. The typical forms of protein are bugs, worms, spiders, and caterpillars. By inviting these into your garden you are also inviting the birds and butterflies. This means NO pesticides.

Several annual herbs that can be tucked into your garden are Parsley, Dill, Basil, and Cilantro. These are ideal because caterpillars will eat the leaves and stalks. Whatever is left to bloom will feed the Butterflies. Caterpillars and moths will feed the birds. If the flowers go to seed you have a start for next years garden.

Perennial herbs that work well are Sage, Oregano, Tarragon, Thyme, and Chives. Since these will come back every year pick a location that can be permanent. Prune back these plants just before winter or early spring as new growth is the tastiest for both people and pollinators. 

At our April meeting on the 14th our speaker, G. Lucas, will tell us about Camp Wildwood. Located at Kings Mountain State Park SC, the focus is on Conservation Leadership. One week of camping, learning, and fun in the outdoors for current Junior or Senior high school students. We will also vote on 2025/26 officers. 

Guests are always welcome. 

Please contact Kiki Mikkelson at kennesawk@gmail.com for more information about our club.●