
2023 Meetings
These were the meetings we had in 2023. Our meetings for 2024 are not yet final. If you are interested in 2024, please contact us at info@portageakegardenclub.org or click the orange button below.
June 15, 2023
Plant Swap & Pot Luck
The meeting was a success and a good time was had by all!
June 29, 2023
Lake Bluff Farms
Great meeting and tour of Lake Bluff Farms! Members and guests of the Portage Lake Garden Club gathered in the former Gray Estate home on Lakeshore Road for their regular meeting on June 29. Gloria Savory, board member for Lake Bluff Farms, presented a lively history of the 76 acre property from the time the home was built until the present. She shared her personal remembrances of the Gray family as they made their generous donation of this unique landmark to the community. She also led the group on a short tour of the grounds, pointing out several of the 150 tree species on the property, including the Michigan Champion Giant Sequoia planted by Robert Gray.



July 13, 2023
Plant It Wild
The speaker was Cheryl Gross, President of Plant It Wild, who spoke about “Growing Native Plants: Where, Why and How.” Cheryl’s message is that native plants feed native pollinators, who in turn pollinate our food supply.
Homeowners often select plants based on looks or ease of care, incorrectly believing that all plants are beneficial to the ecosystems that support pollinators. However, non-native plants offer very little to native pollinators and can be harmful. As more non-native plants are introduced into our environment, their is less room for native plants, which contributes to the decline of pollinators.
Cheryl’s presentation included slides of plants and flowers that she has in her own yard. She offered several suggestions as to which native trees and plants support Manistee County pollinators. Cheryl talked about ways to create a pollinator-friendly yard without offending your neighbors, who might not understand the need for natives. The suggestions are available at plantitwild.net.



July 27, 2023
Wellston Arboretum
Farr Center, 5283 Main Street, Onekama, MI 49675
In the 1930’s, tree saplings from Europe, Asia and across North America were planted in a section of the Manistee National Forest near Wellston to see how they would fare in the local climate. Species include scotch, pinyon, Balkan, white, red, jack and Austrian pines, as well as blue, white and Norway spruce. Speaker Dave Wallace of the Manistee Conservation District will talk about this historically important public space, its role as a CCC Camp and its recent renewal.
​

August 10, 2023
Garden Mixology & Annual Meeting
Farr Center, 5283 Main Street, Onekama, MI 49675
​
The hospitality committee will prepare summer beverages and snacks for members and the public using garden harvest items. Five display tables, with three members at each table, will feature this festive event. Examples include edible flowers, herbs, and other plant materials that are useful for summer gatherings. Recipe sources will be available for reference.
​

August 24, 2023
Growing a Healthier World
Farr Center, 5283 Main Street, Onekama, MI 49675

Founded in 1990, AFFEW nurtures a healthy planet by showing people their connection to the environment, engaging next generations, educating people on what they can do, and inspiring everyone to take action. Speaker is co-founder Julia Chambers. Julia will share highlights of her work to help protect the earth and its inhabitants. Julia was the 2022 runner-up of a national conservation award for her innovative programs to assist citizens in creating a healthier world.
September 7, 2023
Celebrate a Fruitful Summer
Northern Natural Cider House & Winery, 7220 Chief Road, Kaleva, MI
Members and a guest celebrate the close of our club's 88th year. Officers will be installed during a short business meeting.
