Gardening

President Jimmy Carter. Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

By Sabrina Artusa

In the early 1980s, Robin Agnew’s parents were at the end of their rope. After years of struggling under the increased oil prices, Robin Agnew’s father, a commercial gardener, was struggling to maintain operation of his greenhouse in Terryville.

The inflated oil prices caused by President Jimmy Carter’s (D) embargo on oil from Iran drained any revenue her father gained from selling chrysanthemums and orchids.

“There was this hope that this incredible increase in oil prices would subside. Year after year it got worse,” Robin Agnew said. “It never changed.”

On June 30, 1980, Carter signed the Energy Security Act, which emphasized the development of renewable energy projects and energy conservation. 

By this time, the Agnew family’s “state of the art” greenhouses were falling into disrepair and Robin Agnew’s father was “working around the clock just to break even.” At this point her brother, Clark Jr., designed a new greenhouse. He proposed a greenhouse that can weather the elements and utilize the sun’s warmth to its highest potential. The greenhouse would be partially underground, with the top part south-facing to maximize exposure to the sun; it would use rocks as thermal energy storage and have a fan to spread the warm air. 

Clark Agnew Jr., a recent graduate who studied architecture, applied and was approved for a government grant to support his plans to create a new greenhouse.

“They had their backs against the wall and it saved them,” said Robin, who was around 13 when her parents received the grant. 

The greenhouse not only saved the livelihood of her parents, but supplied Robin and Clark with livelihoods of their own.

“He was extremely excited then,” Robin said of her brother. “It was his first really big project and to have someone acknowledge and support it was pretty life changing for him I would think.” 

Robin remarked how a member of the Carter administration, sent to supervise the project, had told her brother “that of all the grant money that they handed out, his was most impressive.” 

“It boosted the trajectory of his life because he felt like they made the right decision in his future and it gave him the confidence to go ahead and do big things,” she said. 

Carter’s presidency is marked by environmental advocacy and progressive climate policies. During his presidency, Carter passed numerous acts aimed at increasing energy efficiency and conservation. 

The grant program that helped the Agnew family was part of Carter’s larger mission of diversifying the country’s energy sources, thereby reducing the country’s reliance on oil. 

His vision in the power of renewable energy sources was such that Carter had solar panels installed on the White House. 

The Agnew greenhouse is still used by Robin Agnew, who refers to it as “her happy place.” There is an aviary, a grapefruit tree and constant warmth. A dressmaker, Robin Agnew works on her craft in the greenhouse as well. 

The greenhouse was a vessel for the economic growth of each of the Agnew family members; it actualized a future that could have easily slipped away without help from the Carter administration. 

“They [Robin Agnew’s parents] were extremely grateful and appreciative and so was I. For me it was amazing,” Robin said.

Photo from Town of Brookhaven

Linda Loftus (center) from Council District 2 (Rocky Point) recently stopped by Town Hall to pick up her prize as one of six winners of the Town of Brookhaven’s “Brookhaven Recycles Day” Compost Tumbler Giveaway. Also pictured is Councilwoman Jane Bonner (right) and Recycling Educator Zachary Sicardi (left). The online contest was held on Facebook and had entrants pledge to recycle for a chance to win. One winner was selected in each Town Council District. For more information about recycling in the Town of Brookhaven, visit www.BrookhavenNY.gov.

Photo courtesy of Town of Brookhaven
Bruce Hennessy (center) from Council District 1 (Stony Brook) recently stopped by Town Hall to pick up his prize as one of six winners of the Town of Brookhaven’s “Brookhaven Recycles Day” Compost Tumbler Giveaway. Also pictured is Councilperson Jonathan Kornreich (left) and Recycling Educator Zachary Sicardi (right).  The online contest was held on Facebook and had entrants pledge to recycle for a chance to win. One winner was selected in each Town Council District. For more information about recycling in the Town of Brookhaven, visit www.BrookhavenNY.gov.

Huntington Town Supervisor Ed Smyth, members of the Huntington Beautification Advisory Council and local elected official doled high praise to dozens of local residents, businesses and artists during the Town’s Annual Beautification Awards Ceremony on October 29.

The 2024 Beautification Awards Ceremony highlighted more than double the homes, businesses, facades, and landscapes in its’ history with 47 awardees.

“I applaud the Town’s Beautification Advisory Council for encouraging everyone to take pride in our Town”, said Ed Smyth.  “By acknowledging and highlighting what people see from the street, we’re hopeful that it will motivate others to beautify their surroundings as well.  Congratulations to all the nights award recipients.”

Beautification Council Chairperson, Jo-Ann Raia said, “The Beautification Council’s Awards Ceremony was very successful. The 47 awards presented were the most in the history of the program. My sincere congratulations to all the awardees. They enhance our town by beautifying their properties “

Each year, for close to a decade, the Town’s Beautification Advisory Council members and members of the community search high and low, throughout the Town searching for, photographing, and awarding attractive private homes and businesses for their eye-catching curb appeal, and public art and children’s projects for the beauty they bring to the community.

The areas for consideration must be visible from the street and may be designed either by a professional landscaper or by the occupant. The candidate can be a business, private home, public art, municipal site, or other sites that enhance the Town. Home renovations must be visible from the street and before and after pictures are required.

About the Huntington Town Beautification Advisory Council:

The Beautification Advisory Council was created in 1969 to help maintain and expand upon the natural beauty and appearance of the Town of Huntington. The Awards Program was developed to spark the interest of homeowners and businesses to enhance the attractiveness of our Town by beautifying parts of their properties that are visible from the street.

Erin Bennett, Planetarium Education Coordinator, and Charles Eder, Planetarium Outreach Coordinator, with the Vanderbilt's 'Moon Tree.' Photo courtesy of Vanderbilt Museum

The Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum is one of the first institutions on Long Island to receive a “Moon Tree” grown from seedlings that flew around the moon on NASA’s Artemis I mission in 2022, to plant in its community.

The Vanderbilt’s Moon Tree, a sweetgum, is planted in a special fenced plot near the entrance to the Vanderbilt Reichert Planetarium. 

Dave Bush, Director of the Reichert Planetarium, said, “We are thrilled to share with our visitors a piece of life that has visited our nearest celestial neighbor, the Moon. We live in exciting times for human space exploration and this tree will serve as a symbol of our growth into the cosmos and as inspiration for a new generation of explorers — The Artemis Generation.”

The unmanned Artemis I rocket traveled around the Moon and back to test new life support systems designed for future astronauts. Passengers also included nearly 2,000 seeds of five tree species — sycamore, sweetgum, Douglas fir, loblolly pine, and giant sequoia.

When the rocket returned, NASA and the U.S. Forest Service collaborated, grew the seedlings into Moon tree saplings, and offered them to schools, museums, planetariums, and other educational organizations across the country. The first batch of seedlings was shipped to nearly 50 institutions across the 48 contiguous states.

NASA evaluated institutions based on their suitability to care for the various tree species and their ability to maximize educational opportunities around the life and growth of the trees in their communities.

NASA Administrator Bill Nelson said, “A new era of Moon trees will one day stand tall in communities across America. NASA is bringing the spirit of exploration back down to Earth because space belongs to everyone. The Artemis Generation will carry forth these seedlings that will be fertile ground for creativity, inspiration, and discovery for years to come.”

The Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum is located at 180 Little Neck Road in Centerport. Operating hours for the fall are Fridays from noon to 5 p.m., Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. www.vanderbiltmuseum.org.

Jefferson’s Ferry resident and gardener Mark Saidens shared the bounty of his garden during a Garden Showcase on Aug. 16. Photo courtesy of Jefferson's Ferry

‘The glory of gardening: hands in the dirt, head in the sun, heart with nature. To nurture a garden is to feed not just the body, but the soul.’ — Alfred Austin

By Elissa Gargone

Elissa Gargone

Since it was founded in 2001, Jefferson’s Ferry residents have enthusiastically gardened, whether in their apartments, their patios, in the yards of their cottages or in a number of garden beds provided by Jefferson’s Ferry for resident use. Over the years, the demand for growing space has increased. Jefferson’s Ferry President and CEO Bob Caulfield has worked with the resident Garden Committee to help bring their wishes to fruition. Today, 36 elevated beds tended by Independent Living residents overflow with a variety of flowers, vegetables and herbs. Elevated beds are easier on the gardeners’ backs and knees, and are accessible to residents who use wheelchairs. 

Additional gardens can be found within the interior gardens and greenspaces of Jefferson’s Ferry Health Center residences. Of the dozen boxes within the interior garden, roughly half are used by residents as part of the recreational therapy program.  

Each year, the raised-bed gardeners have an opportunity to display the fruits of their labor at a community gathering, and this year was no exception. A special Garden Showcase and Happy Hour celebration was held during the height of the harvest on August 16. Display tables were loaded with bumper crops of summer flowers, tomatoes, cucumbers, eggplant, basil, lavender and other herbs, as well as samples of Essie Freilach’s homemade pickles and a Chinese-inspired eggplant dish prepared by Mark Saidens. House plants also got their moment in the sun. Blooming orchids and violets in a variety of colors were in abundance. Resident Laura Lesch displayed a 100-year-old Snake Plant that has been passed down through several generations of her family.  

Anthropologist Margaret Mead famously said, “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.” 

A cadre of Jefferson’s Ferry residents has taken that sentiment to heart, with a mission to give back to the environment what development has taken away. Since 2018, the Grounds Committee has spearheaded a project to protect the endangered Monarch Butterfly. When the project was proposed to the community, the response was overwhelmingly positive. Management has since expanded the Monarch project to restore native plants and trees to the 50 acre campus with pollinator, bird and aquifer-friendly native plants and trees, particularly in a meadow around its Melo Pond wetland. 

Hoping to obtain outside funding for the expanded project, Grounds Committee member Dorothy Gilbert initiated a grant application to Suffolk County. She was able to involve a diverse group of resident educators, scientists, engineers, construction experts and grant writers to help shape the application. These included a geologist who provided valuable information about soil and the effects of fertilizing, an expert photographer who took pictures during the early work, a resident who was able to get an endorsement for the application from a local government official, and the support of the resident chairs of the Jefferson’s Ferry’s Grounds, Conservation, and Public Affairs committees and the Residents Council.

Jefferson’s Ferry Melo Pond

“We may be the old guard but we are setting an example by doing something that other Long Islanders can do as well — protecting the environment for future generations. We are not wasting our talents after retirement; we want to continue to make a contribution to our community and to society. The new meadowlands include plants vital to important pollinators, including the Monarch Butterfly and other insects and birds. We have planted a variety of native milkweed, which the Monarchs need to reproduce, creating a way station for the them as they migrate south. The meadow provides food and shelter to other native creatures and thrives without the fertilizers and heavy irrigation required for lawns, which is very environmentally friendly to Long Island’s water supply,” said Dorothy Gilbert.

“The Jefferson’s Ferry community, from our management team to our fellow residents, have been immensely supportive of our endeavors, encouraging us every step of the way. There are costs associated with our undertaking, so we have been building the garden beds and the meadows in steps as the budget allows,” added Mark Saidens.

“One of the many things that has always made Jefferson’s Ferry stand out as an extraordinary community is the people who live here,” said Bob Caulfield. “They continue to be active and involved in important social activism. They are environmentally conscious and generous in their charitable donations and volunteerism. They embrace lifelong learning and new ideas and gladly share their talents and wisdom.”

Elissa Gargone is Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Jefferson’s Ferry Life Plan Community in South Setauket.

On August 10, Town of Brookhaven Councilman Neil Manzella and Town Clerk Kevin LaValle co-hosted the Annual Shoprite Run the Farm 4 Mile Run/Walk to benefit Bethel Hobbs Community Farm in Centereach. Hundreds of runners and spectators attend the Run the Farm 4 Mile Run/Walk each year. This year, over 200 runners participated and more than 350 community members joined the post-race celebrations. Hunter Wilson was the male leader at 21 minutes, 16 seconds and Grace Miller was the female leader at 25 minutes, 31 seconds. Ms. Miller beat her own record from last year. 

The historic Bethel Hobbs Community Farm is one of Long Island’s last remaining, all-volunteer farms. Established in 1906, this not-for-profit farm embodies the spirit of giving by donating as much as 90% of its annual harvest to feed those less fortunate. Hobbs Farm raises over 100,000 pounds of food each year which is donated to various food pantries around Long Island. 

Councilman Manzella and Town Clerk LaValle thanked the organizers and runners who participated as well as the sponsors, Suffolk County Police Department 6th Precinct; Town of Brookhaven Highway Department; Town of Brookhaven Public Safety; Centereach Fire Department; and the event producers, EliteFeats. They also acknowledged Hobbs Farm owner, Ann Pellegrino, all the dedicated volunteers and vendors who helped make the Shoprite Run the Farm 4 Mile Run/Walk. 

They also thanked the event sponsors, including Suffolk County Legislators Leslie Kennedy and Nick Caracappa; ShopRite; New York Blood & Cancer; Pepsi; Bethel AME Church; Middle Country Chamber of Commerce; John T. Mather Memorial Hospital; Stony Brook UUP; Mondelez International; Frito Lay; Team Rita; Island Nursing and Rehab; Techworks; Brooklyn Delights; Bimbo Bakeries; Campbells and Dunkin Donuts. 

Pixabay photo

Biting into a ripe, juicy peach is a sure sign of summer here on Long Island and picking your own tree ripened peach just adds to the fun. How can you tell when peaches are ripe? Trust your senses.

Gently touch the peach: If the peach is firm, it is not ready to be picked. Wait until there is some “give” but don’t squeeze too hard as that may result in bruising. A ripe peach will separate from the tree easily. If it’s difficult to pick, leave it on the tree to ripen longer.

Look at the color and shape: When a peach is ready to be picked, it won’t have any green on the skin. The skin will have changed to yellow or white, or in some cases (depending on the variety) will have a very bright red-orange color. If there is still some green skin, it isn’t ready to be picked yet. Also, a peach will become more round as it ripens.

 Smell the peaches: If there is no smell, it’s not ready to be enjoyed. A ripe peach will give off a sweet aroma. Hint: Larger peaches and those at the tops of the trees ripen first.

Here are some local farms on the north shore that have pick-your-own peaches available in August. Remember to always to call first to check availability.

Hayden’s Peach Orchard, 561 Hulse Landing Road, Wading River, 631-886-1280

Hayden’s (formerly Davis Peach Farm) offers you-pick yellow, white and donut peaches. The farm is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays through Sundays, closed Mondays.

Lewin Farms, 812 Sound Avenue, Calverton, 631-929-4327, ext. 1

Lewin’s Farms offers pick your own peaches from August to September. The orchard is located  across the street from the farm stand. Follow signs down the dirt road on North side of Sound Avenue. 1/4 mile west of farm stand. The farm grows 10 varieties of peaches, including yellow peaches and the unique shaped donut peaches. The orchard open daily from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Wickham’s Fruit Farm, 28700 Route 25, Cutchogue, 631-734-6441

Pick your own peaches in August and September at Wickham’s. Plums, apricots and nectarines are also in season. Open 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays, closed Sundays.

Windy Acres Orchards, 3810 Middle Country Road, Calverton, 631-727-4554

The farm currently has yellow and white peaches available in the orchard behind the farmstand. Pick your own hours are weekends from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Don’t feel like picking peaches? All four locations have a farmstand on the premises and sell peaches by the bushel. Or stop at Briermere Farms, 4414 Sound Ave., Riverhead, on your way home for a freshly baked peach pie!

 Offering A Unique Floral Experience On Eastern Long Island

Horton’s Flower Farm, 712 Horton Avenue, Riverhead  announced on July 13 that it is open for the season.  Nestled among the region’s famous wineries, Horton’s Flower Farm offers a unique opportunity for visitors to handpick their own bouquets from over 100 varieties of cut flowers.

“When you visit our farm, you’ll experience what hundreds of others have described to us: peace, serenity, and an escape from the noise and hustle of everyday life. Our farm is a throwback to a quieter, more serene time. Walking in the fields and cutting the flowers is as therapeutic as it is beautiful,” said co-owner Jeffrey Gross.

The farm is open daily from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. with Sunset Picking available from 6 to 8 p.m. (Friday & Saturday only). Admission for adults is $3 and $2 for kids. Veterans, Nurses, Teachers, Seniors, and well-behaved, leashed dogs get in free.

When visitors first arrive at Horton’s Flower Farm, they choose the size of their bouquet based on the number of stems they want to pick. Each bouquet includes a mason jar to take home. After picking, guests are welcome to relax and enjoy the garden, have a picnic, or play games.

Additionally, anyone who buys flowers this season can win a lifetime of free flowers.

“On August 18th, five lucky people will be chosen to attend the Golden Ticket event. One winner will receive a lifetime of flowers, and the other four will receive a Family Pack of four passes for this season and next. Buy a bouquet, enter your email, and you’re in!” said co-owner Claudette Gross.

Group Bookings are available for Girl Scouts, bridal parties, bus tours, and more. Professional Photography services are available for families, couples, and special occasions.

“Plan your family visit to Horton’s Flower Farm. Create bouquets with your loved ones, enjoy a picnic at our tables, and let the kids play on our swing set and engage in family games. For couples, the farm offers a romantic experience where you can pick flowers together and enjoy the picturesque surroundings,” added Claudette Gross.

To learn more about Horton’s Flower Farm, call 516-860-9528 or visit https://www.hortonsflowerfarm.com/

This article originally appeared in TBR News Media’s senior supplement Prime Times on July 18.

 

Pixabay photo

A Self-Guided Tour with Surprises Galore! (rain or shine)

Join the Northport Historical Society for a one-of-a-kind summer experience as you explore the gardens of homeowners in and around Northport on the 2024 Annual Summer Splendor Garden Tour on Sunday, July 14 from noon to 4 p.m.

This year’s collection of gardens boasts an assortment of gardening styles, each with its own personality and tailored to the owner’s preferences. Refreshments and raffles await you at the end of your tour.

Tickets are $45 per person, $40 Society members, $50 day of event. To order, click here.

Please come to the Museum on Saturday (between 1:00pm -4:30pm) or Sunday (from 11am – 4:30pm) to pick up your Guide to the Gardens.

Please Note: Gardens May Not Be Handicap Accessible