A BEAUTIFUL KOUSA DOGWOOD TREE was in full bloom on Saturday, May 19, the day The Floral Way Festival was celebrated. (Gail Lowe Photo)
Published in the May 21, 2018 edition.
By GAIL LOWE
WAKEFIELD — The weather forecast for Saturday, May 19 called for rain, but all precipitation held off until the afternoon, making it easier and more pleasant for people to attend the annual Floral Way Festival on the grounds of the Hartshorne House on Church Street.
By 11 a.m. many of the plants — from potted geraniums to hosta — had been sold to happy gardeners.
Proceeds from the sale will be used to enhance the “Welcome to Wakefield” sign and various other locations in town, according to Wakefield Garden Club Co-President Mary Ann Carmody.
“We’re going for the wow factor,” she said, adding that plants and flowers bring even more beauty to an already pretty town.
The event also featured an opportunity drawing that included prizes such as a painted and stenciled chair that had been turned into a planter by Maureen Coughlin, plants, gardening gloves and other gifts.
Annuals were provided by Willow Tree Garden and Flower Center while the perennial plants came from the gardens of members. Other donors included the Wakefield Co-operative Bank, The Savings Bank, Gregory’s Flower Shop, Parker Florist and The Sweetbay Shop.
A “green elephant” table consisted of donated garden-related items either new or gently used.
Sandwich wraps, desserts and coffee and tea were offered to shoppers while while they browsed the grounds and toured the Hartshorne House.
The Floral Way Festival is sponsored by the Wakefield Garden Club, founded in 1930.
Following World War II, Club members planted flowering trees as a living memorial to those who served in the armed services. The project was given the “Better Homes and Gardens” award. To this day, The Floral Way remains a significant and unique part of Wakefield. The award rock is located along the sidewalk, which is planted seasonally by members.
An herb garden at the rear of the Hartshorne House is maintained by Club members using the original plot plan.
For more information about the Wakefield Garden Club or to become a member, contact Jan Thomas at 781-245-4649 or e-mail Jetwkfield@aol.com.
