“Tricky Tropical Plants” is the title of a talk, sponsored by the Chicatabot Garden Club, on Tuesday, November 14 at 9:30 a.m. at the Dover Library, lower level. The Club’s speaker is Dr. Paul Steen, a retired internal medicine physician, software executive, and gardener for more than 50 years. He has lived in Sturbridge for the past 40 years, where he grows camellias, succulents and tropical plants in this “hobby greenhouse.”
Dr. Steen completed three years of college-level horticulture courses at the New England School of Gardening at Tower Hill Botanic Gardens and became a certified Master Gardner in 2005. He is currently the past president of the Massachusetts Master Gardner Association.
What exactly is a tropical plant? What is unique about them? Tropical plants are houseplants in New England, but are not necessarily the common ones grown indoors. Dr. Steen will focus on many specific plants such as bougainvillea, camellia, oranges, clivia, gardenia, tropical hibiscus, banana, and some orchids. He will talk about the common and critical problems many house plants face and address the causes of these issues, how to prevent them, and how to treat them. From improper watering to pests and diseases – he’ll cover it all.
All are welcome to attend. Refreshments will be served beginning at 9:00 a.m. and the program will start promptly at 9:30.
