December, a great time to reflect on the year that has been, there has been a noticeable absence of horticultural notes in the monthly Eastwoodhill newsletters, and for that I would like to apologize, and from here on out will prioritise letting you all in on the goings on in that field and more! As we are all aware, we have endured cyclones, flooding, and very dry spells in the last 2 years, and that is still leaving a heavy impact throughout our arboretum and district alike, with a great number of species being negatively affected, even still to this day (Our species included).
We have seen many negatives, but alongside that, many positives as well.
Last Christmas we put on a community event in our outdoor grotto area, a first here at Eastwoodhill, and we were overwhelmed by the amazing turn out of happy families and neighbours and people from town as well, the weather was great, the setting was amazing, and the vibe…. quite indescribable. A little bit magic if you will.
The weather did not play ball for us this Christmas season, but we have now set the bar and look forward to hosting many events here, in our very special piece of paradise.
It is hard to describe, or explain exactly, what it is that emanates from this collection of great northern hemisphere giants, that truly elevates one’s feeling of peace.
We all know that trees are good for us, but there is definitely something special about Eastwoodhill. Looking forward to a propagation list of critically endangered species as long as my arm, and a five star garden of national significance to maintain.
Please do keep an eye out for our upcoming working bee notices! The National Arboretum belongs to us all, so maybe we can pull together to get things done!
Happy and safe holidays everyone from all the team here at Eastwoodhill!
Anthea Dalton
Head Horticulturalist