Recently the Australian Institute of Horticulture and Therapeutic Landscape Association held their conferences in Perth. They had a great lineup of speakers covering a range of topics that would have been of great interest to IPA members. It’s worth attending these conferences as the topics covered are relevant to all aspects of horticulture. Adaptable ideas spring forth. Hort Journal Australia has a calendar of events and usually advertisements prior to these events.
Green Life Industry Australia (previously known as The Nursery & Garden Industry) 2020 Conference will be held in March in Perth. The theme of the conference is ‘Healthy Plants Healthy People’. It ties in nicely with the United Nations proclaiming 2020 as the ’International Year of Plant Health’ which will contribute to raising awareness of how protecting plant health can support people through health and well-being, The theme of the conference in ‘Healthy Plants Healthy People’. It will include a range of topics such as leveraging opportunities of a changing climate and lots more. Why not plan on attending. It is good for professional development as well as being a tax deduction!
We are hoping to run a few workshops or talks next year so if you would like to be involved in any small way or if there is a topic you would like to learn more about please contact us.
Plans are also underway for a study tour to Singapore to tie in with the biennial Singapore Garden Festival which will be in late July. We are still waiting for confirmation from Singapore as to the dates of the Festival and the venue. As soon as we know we will lock it in. Numbers will be limited so it will be on a ‘first come first in’ basis. It will be an opportunity to visit places that the general public will not see. We will keep you posted, so stay tuned and watch this space.
For those struggling to find plant suppliers, PlantSelect now has a specific ‘Indoor Plant’ section www.plantselect.com.au if you haven’t tried it, it is free for users.
Calathea makoyana (Peacock Plant) I just thought I would share this plant with you. You may use it all the time but if you don’t it is well worth trying. I’ve had this specimen indoors for three years. I only water it every two or three weeks over the cooler months and about every week during the summer. It never seems to be bothered by pest or disease, so far! I spend a lot of time away from home and for me this little beauty is a winner.
Calathea makoyana has interesting foliage, and is low maintenance
I hope you all have a great month!
Karen Smith
IPA President
(M) 0425 349 137