Library gardening talks to focus on irises, companion planting

ASHEBORO –Tips for growing irises in your garden and companion planting are the topics of talks at four Randolph County libraries in May.

At the Asheboro Public Library, join Heather Haley, president of the Eastern North Carolina Iris Society, for “Irises in the Garden, a Month-by-Month Calendar,” at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, May 25.

Haley will explore the relationship between iris growth cycles and common cultural practices. Members of the Iris Society will conduct live demonstrations, answer questions, and share tips and tricks for planting, digging and dividing the flowers in the Piedmont.

Attendees will receive a calendar describing irises in 15 horticultural classifications, expected bloom times in North Carolina, and month-by-month recommendations to help them thrive in the garden.

The Asheboro library is located at 201 Worth Street. For further information, call 336-318-6803.

Haley also will discuss “Bearded Irises for the Home Landscape” at the Randleman Public Library, 142 W. Academy Street, at 3:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 9. Call 336-498-3141 for further information.

Franklinville and Seagrove libraries will offer “Is This Plant Friend or Foe?” The talk will focus on companion planting, which can be used to attract pollinators, deter pests, invigorate production and keep weeds down, and will offer tips about beneficial combinations and ones to avoid.

The talks will take place at the Franklinville library, 111 Sumner Place, at 4 p.m. Wednesday, May 10; and at the Seagrove library, 530 Old Plank Road, at 4 p.m. Wednesday, May 24.

For further information, call Franklinville at 336-685-3100 or Seagrove at 336-873-7521.