Honeywood (Dr. A. J. Porter) Heritage Nursery board of directors has announced the recent installation of a misting greenhouse.
The summer project was unveiled at the Lilies in Bloom event in July and was realized due to Malcolm Jenkins’ generous donation. The mist greenhouse was dedicated to Jenkins’ wife, Melba, who had a passion for Honeywood and its lilies.
The addition will compliment the facility by providing an area to propagate and graft rare heirloom plants on site. The facility will also act as an educational tool on horticulture, propagation and grafting to students studying horticulture and agriculture.
The board of directors has also announced the launch of its third season of a fundraising event.
The success of the 2013/14 cash lotto draws convinced the non-profit organization to proceed with the promotional ticket event of 50/50 progressive lotto ticket sales as a means to raise funds for maintenance and repair of the site.
This year, the lotto organizers offer a total of 20,500 tickets for purchase enabling the winner a chance at up to $40,000 if all tickets are sold. There is also a Glen Scrimshaw “Honeywood” to be won.
Tickets purchased by midnight Sept. 16 are eligible for the Sept. 18 draw that will be held at the heritage site’s Touch of Autumn event.
“Only 20,500 tickets will be sold with ticket purchases available either as single units or in multiples of five or 15,” commented Honeywood Nursery manager Judy Harley further explaining that tickets can be purchased at Honeywood Nursery, Parkside General Store, the directors, by mail or faxing 306-747-3395.
Previous lotteries were instrumental in raising public awareness of the heritage site, which continues to gain support of everyone that visits the picturesque nursery.
The funds raised through this lottery will assist with the major upgrades and renovations to the original log house. Harley indicated the original homestead rafters need repair and the roof requires new shingles. Some of the original structural logs require repair and application of water repellent to the exterior is a priority.
Ongoing yard and garden maintenance is essential to ensure the grounds are kept in superior condition for public viewing.
Honeywood Heritage Nursery celebrates the rich horticultural heritage of the area and is a testament to the commitment, love and dedication that Dr. Porter displayed with the cultivation and hybridization of lilies for which he was known worldwide and a questto develop hardy fruit varieties for the Canadian prairies.
Designated as a municipal heritage site in 2001 and provincial heritage site in 2007, Honeywood Heritage Nursery is not only considered a destination of preference for weddings and photographers, but also as an educational tool for horticulturalists, gardeners, landscapers and students of all ages.
For more information about the progressive 50/50 lotto and Honeywood Heritage Nursery seasonal events call 306-747-3307 or visit www.honeywood-lilies.ca.
