Chapter Chat - Sept. 2025
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Notes from the editor:
After a 2 month break from publishing the chat, lots has happened and there's lots of neat stuff coming up. As a result, this edition has lots of pictures and more. I fear it may be too long from some email limits, so if it appears the end of the chat has been cut off by your email app, please go to our website and view the version we have posted there. My apologies for any inconvenience.
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Tuesday, September 3, 2025
7:00 - 8:00 PM PDT - Free Webinar, Open to All
Registration Required
8:00-9:00 PM PDT - Members Meeting
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The Washington County Master Gardener Association invites you to learn about growing garlic and onions in the Pacific Northwest. . The webinar will be led by Douglas County Master Gardener Bruce Gravens who will discuss soil preparation, seeding, planting, harvest, curing, and storage of garlic, onions, shallots, and leeks.
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Bruce Gravens joined the Master Gardener program in 2001 in Santa Clara County, CA. He was born into a multi-generation farming family and has grown vegetables as far back as he can remember. While a member of the Santa Clara County Master Gardeners, Bruce managed the tomato and pepper trials and seed saving program as well as the pepper seedling effort for their plant sale. He relocated to Roseburg, OR in 2014 and joined the Douglas County Master Gardeners. He now manages the tree, woody plants, and sedum plants for the DCMGA plant sale and heads up their sustainable composting project. His 7,000 sq. ft. home garden supplies vegetables to a local retail shop as well as garlic to a local pizza parlor.
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As I write this we seem to be returning to seasonal weather. I hope you and your gardens coped with the heat. My zinnias loved it.
As we head into September, our Fall Social is Saturday the 13th at the Ed Garden – I hope to see you there.
By the time you read this I will have cleaned and sharpened several of my tools at the August Gathering Gardeners event. Keep your eye out for these; they are causal, fun, and usually don’t involve work.
Four Board positions are coming open – Recording Secretary, Communications Director, Publicity Director, and Chapter Relations Director. You can find position descriptions on our website:
https://washingtoncountymastergardeners.org/board-information/
Please consider serving on the Board; the duties aren’t onerous and we’re a fun bunch.
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Rosa rugosa shows its hips
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Education Garden Open Garden
WCMGA Master Gardeners and community partners welcomed 160 visitors to our annual Open Garden. Attendees learned about the benefits of pollinators, how to identify different bee species, raising mason bees, the value of invertebrates to the ecosystem, vertebrate and invertebrate pests and their control, backyard habitat certification, and much more! The community partners included: Backyard Habitat/Bird Alliance of Oregon, Multnomah County Vector Control, Oregon Ag in the Classroom, Oregon Bee Atlas, PCC Rock Creek Farm Animals, and Xerces Society. WCMGA volunteers led the Let’s Talk Plants table, Backyard Habitat, and Mason Bee table.
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Shari MacDonald led the "Vertebrate or Invertebrate" activity at the Let's Talk Plants table.
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Ron Spendal shared his deep knowledge of mason bees (front) while Robin Carpenter and Jack Shorr put on their Bird Alliance of Oregon hats to explain Backyard Habitat Certification.
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Hands on learning about bees from Oregon Bee Atlas.
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Xerces Society volunteers reveal the benefits of invertebrates.
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Kids and adults inspected insects up close that could be considered pests at the Multnomah County Vector Control table.
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Anita Spaeth shared information from Oregon Ag in the Classroom and Tualatin Soil and Water Conservation District.
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Sheep from the PCC Rock Creek Farm greeted visitors upon arrival and thanked all for coming to the Open Garden!
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Volunteer team from WCMGA Master Gardeners Association and our community partners
The 29 Master Gardeners, 3 Master Gardener interns, and 13 community volunteers deserve a hearty round of applause for a highly successful Open Garden!
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Larina Hoffbeck and Badri Kashyap stake up white-blooming bottle gourd in the Moon and Moth Garden.
Summer Shines at the Education Garden!
The relatively mild summer weather provided many opportunities for Education Garden team to spruce up the garden and welcome visitors. Spring blooming shrubs were pruned; irrigation lines repaired and adjusted; the office shed was prepped for painting; loads of weeds were pulled; and wheelbarrows of arborist chips were laid down.
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Susan Albright and Sue Ryburn took on the daunting task of removing aggressive Douglas aster from the PNW Hedgerow. Other PNW natives will fill the space.
Regretfully, some overly aggressive native plants had to be removed. Wild strawberry is a beautiful groundcover but it threatened to take over a large swath of the Insect and Pollinator bed, climbing over dwarf conifers and perennials in its exuberance. And the Douglas aster, favorite of late summer and fall pollinators, proved too boisterous for the balance of the PNW hedgerow. A garden is always a work in progress and when edits present themselves, we have the opportunity to find new plants to replace them. Other native plants will fill the bill and will fit in with our focus on climate resilience in the garden.
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Laurel Parc residents visit the Education Garden. Master Gardeners Shari MacDonald, seated on bench, second from right, and Jack Shorr, standing in back row, far right.
Visit by Laurel Parc at Bethany Village
Shari MacDonald and Jack Shorr hosted an engaged group of seniors from Laurel Parc on July 11th. The group toured the garden and asked many questions about the plant selection and garden classrooms. Later, the group transitioned to the shady garden entrance to learn about the indigenous peoples who inhabited the land where the Education Garden and PCC Rock Creek campus now sit.
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The PNW Hedgerow has been featured as an example of climate resilient gardening in the OSU Extension Garden Future Initiative.
Focus on the Future for Climate Resilience
The Education Garden is a natural location to highlight the Oregon State Extension Garden Future Initiative. Several Education Garden team members have signed up to learn about becoming Garden Future champions. Susan Albright and Sue Ryburn completed a detailed questionnaire describing climate resiliency practices employed in the Education Garden and an article describing these actions will be posted soon on the Garden Future website.
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Other Happenings
- In the Garden Series Putting the Garden to Bed. Saturday. Sept 27th 10 a.m.-Noon at PCC Rock Creek Building 4, Room 103 and the Education Garden, presented by Master Gardeners Fran Beebe, Lisa Hansen, and Sue Ryburn.
- The next monthly Education Team Meeting will be held Wednesday September 17th from 6:00 – 7:00 pm. Watch your email for the agenda and Zoom link.
If you’d like to join the Education Garden email list, contact Susan Albright albright.becker@gmail.com or Sue Ryburn sue@sueryburn.com
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In mid-June, MGs Dan McDonald, Jeannine Rychlik, Jennifer Rosenquist, and Lorill Hirschberger brought the garden to life with their dynamic In-the-Garden class on Growing Vegetables in the Willamette Valley. Attendees didn’t just learn—they experienced. From hands-on demonstrations to region-specific tips, participants explored techniques that thrive in our local soil and climate. The response? Overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the class as both inspiring and practical.
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Jeannine Rychlik demonstrating a gardening technique. Photo courtesy of Cyrene Domogalla.
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Lorill Hirschberger teaching amid the asparagus. Photo courtesy of Cyrene Domogalla.
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Dan McDonald illustrating a growing method. Photo courtesy of Cyrene Domogalla.
Learning Garden Fair
From pulling carrots to marveling at carnivorous plants, this June’s Learning Garden Fair was a blooming success! Attendees praised the friendly, knowledgeable volunteers for their engaging discussions and generous plant advice. Hands-on activities like planting vegetables, creating compost, and looking for pollinators sparked joy. A girl scout troop spent hours working on their gardening badge. Some great community partners also participated - THPRD with their Nature Mobile had many activities and Growing Gardens offered visitors the opportunity to learn about their programs. With a warm, welcoming vibe, guests described the day as “amazing,” “helpful,” and “great.”
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Judy Belles, Marilynn Turner, and Jennifer Rosenquist greeted visitors as they arrived. Photo courtesy of Terry Wagner.
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Heather McClain and Jill Hageman staffing the Let’s Talk Plants and Garden Future tables. Photo courtesy of Terry Wagner.
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Minoo Sweet and Larry Schick co-leads in the Deer Resistant area. Photo courtesy of Terry Wagner.
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Steve Kister leading a pollinators’ activity with fair visitors. Cindy Muir in the background explains recent changes in the Urban Edibles area to Sue Ryburn. Photo courtesy of Terry Wagner.
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Bob Campbell explained carnivorous plants which were a big hit. Photo courtesy of Terry Wagner.
With great appreciation, we thank the following members of the WCMGA MG community for their team effort before and during the Learning Garden Fair: Bob Campbell, Cindy Muir, Cynthia Radler, Cyrene Domogalla, Deb Hansen, Heather McClain, James Galbreath, Jeannine Rychlik, Jennifer Legault, Jennifer Rosenquist, Jill Hageman, Joe Porter, Judy Belles, Judy Fenker, Kari Woyak, Kim Dodds, Larry Schick, Linda Baity, Lorill Hirschberger, Marilyn Berti, Marilynn Turner, Mary Hewitt, Michael Donoghue, Minoo Sweet, Robin Burnham, Steve Kister, Sue McCullough, Tamara Newton Baker, Terri Rottman and Terry Wagner.
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Volunteers at the Learning Garden Fair. Photo courtesy of Terry Wagner.
In July, MGs Anna Stubbs, Judy Fenker, and Lorill Hirschberg led a captivating workshop for the 2025 Interns, diving into the fragrant, flavorful world of herbs. The garden was bursting with life—lush basil, towering borage, and vibrant mint spilling over the beds—sparking curiosity and excitement. Interns eagerly snipped cuttings, thrilled to bring a piece of the experience home and begin their own herb-growing adventures. The hands-on session didn’t just teach—it inspired.
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Judy Fenker (left) explains how to grow specific herbs in the Herb Spiral. Photo courtesy of Robin Burnham.
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Lorill Hirschberger (right) presents information on herb families. Photo courtesy of Robin Burnham
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Anna Stubbs teaches Interns how to propagate herbs. Photo courtesy of Robin Burnham.
In addition to the fair and training activities, work parties continue on Thursdays. There's always plenty to do, discover, and learn. Our Irrigation Team - Michael Donoghue and intern Mary Oakes - are nearly finished with mapping the underground pipes and sprinkler heads for all the various irrigation stations in the garden. Mary learned how to find pipe runs using a pair of dowsing rods. We've also learned that Mary volunteers as part of a "re-enactment" at Pittock Mansion in the role of Georgina Pittock.
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Learning Garden regular work parties are on Thursdays, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. - feel free to come at any time during those hours. For more information contact Steve Kister kansammy@yahoo.com or Robin Burnham robin.e.burnham@aol.com.
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Plant Propagation Work Group — PCC-Rock Creek Greenhouse:
Life After Gardenfest
Following our chapter’s big fundraiser in May, Gardenfest (GF), our tasks at the greenhouse have continued in weekly care of our leftover plants and those plants not quite ready for the sale, the so-called ICU plants.
With summer’s warmth we worked mainly outside in the shaded hoop house as it was often too hot to be inside the greenhouse. We applied a slow release fertilizer to most plants—a tedious process using a fork and a granulated fertilizer. Egads! Where did the top layer of moss come from! Thanks to the many helping hands during this this longterm project!
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From left, Rosa Seda and Lauralee Tyrrell; Cindy Muir and Larry Waterbury; Andrea Flint
We moved plants to their preferred location, either the sunny canyard or the shaded hoop house. How wonderful to have access to above ground irrigators in both spaces, with extra hand watering needed only during a heat spell. Our current challenges include monitoring plants to see when they’ve outgrow their pots, weeding, and some plant nibbling by local deer.
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Happy plants in the canyard
We moved plants to their preferred location, either the sunny canyard or the shaded hoop house. How wonderful to have access to above ground irrigators in both spaces, with extra hand watering needed only during a heat spell. Our current challenges include monitoring plants to see when they’ve outgrown their pots, weeding, and some plant nibbling by local deer.
As we move into fall, Helen Dorbolo, our plant guru, has reviewed our plant inventory and developed a list from which we have begun cloning more plants. Our sources include our mother plants, including many varieties of fuchsias, some plants from the Education Garden, and more. We’ve begun working more in the greenhouse to propagate these plants which will hopefully grow and be added to our propagated inventory for the GF26 fundraiser or possibly GF27. More information to come about the complementary plant procurement/purchasing related to our group in a future edition of Chapter Chat.
To find out about our planned activities each week, please email Karen Anderson (worthog42@gmail.com) and you’ll be added to our weekly email. We meet on Fridays from 9-11am at the PCC-Rock Creek Greenhouse and welcome all volunteers.
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Finally, look in future issues of the Chapter Chat in this space as we’ll share resources we’ve found helpful in the cloning of plants. A first suggested resource is the 2025 edition of Alan Toogood’s book, "Propagating Plants: How to create plants for free."
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In this update from six years ago, the introductory pages have been revised, but much of the book’s how-to’s look the same as in previous editions. Contained in the 300-plus pages are helpful hints on stem cuttings, hardwood cuttings, and much much more along with specific tips related to working with a wide range of plants. Look for used copies of the 2019 or earlier editions or check our your local library for copies.
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Join Washington County Master Gardeners for an introduction to nature journaling led by OSU Extension MG Volunteer and Artist, Terri Rottman.
Learn how to use simple prompts and materials to more deeply connect and engage with nature and draw and write about what you see. Please see example below. We'll show examples and guide you through the process of creating a nature journal page in a fun, interactive environment. Reap the benefits of spending time with others in nature and learn a little something about plants and pollinators along the way. You'll take home your first entry and the inspiration and knowledge you need to start your own journey of discovery. Bring your own journal, pens, and pencils to class or use provided paper and writing/drawing materials. Class is for adults and children ages 10-17, accompanied by an adult. No experience necessary.
No registration needed. Free parking.
For more information:
https://washingtoncountymastergardeners.org/event/introduction-to-nature-journaling-2/
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Join the Washington County Master Gardeners for an in person class on
*Growing Native Plants (IGS) There is an increasing interest in growing native plants. Information will include the definition and role of native plants. What are the historical uses for native plants? What are the best native plants for your garden? Resources will be shared and there will be an opportunity to see a variety of native plants in the garden.
The class will be led by Kari Woyak and Jennifer Legault OSU Extension MG Volunteers.
No registration needed. Free parking.
For more information:
https://washingtoncountymastergardeners.org/event/growing-native-plants/
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Fall is a great time to prepare for winter and to set up your garden for
success year-round. Join the Washington County Master Gardeners as we share tips for landscape plants, best practices for planting trees and shrubs, tasks to prepare the vegetable and fruit garden for winter, and techniques to protect the soil. The class session will begin in Bldg. 4, Room 103.
We will then take a short walk to the WCMGA Education Garden for a demo of our tips including proper planting techniques followed by a visit to the PCC RC vegetable and fruit garden to discuss techniques to prepare for winter. Helpful references will be provided.
The class will be led by Fran Beebe, Lisa Hansen, and Sue Ryburn OSU Extension MG Volunteers.
No registration needed. Free parking.
For more information:
https://washingtoncountymastergardeners.org/event/putting-the-garden-to-bed-2/
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Please join our Member Fall Social to meet and greet friends old and new.
September 13th, 1pm - 3pm
WCMGA Education Garden
PCC Rock Creek Campus
17705 NW Springville Rd, Portland
There will be finger food and beverages, door prizes, and the opportunity to enjoy the Education Garden. We will also be recognizing members' awards and achievements.
Bring your returnable cans and bottles for the “Blue Bag” program to benefit our Chapter. You can also bring books for the Little Free Library at the Learning Garden.
You can volunteer to help set up (12 – 1pm) and/or take down
(3pm - 4pm) for Partner hours. Send your name and email to tawerwkgw@gmail.com to volunteer and thank you in advance for helping.
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“Sissinghurst – A Garden, In a Ruin, In a Farm”
presented by Sissinghurst Head Gardener, Troy Scott Smith
Sunday, September 21st, 2:00PM - 3:30PM (Doors open at 1:30PM)
at Roosevelt High School Auditorium, 6941 N Central St, Portland, OR 97203
Get tickets here: https://www.hardyplantsociety.org/2025-sissinghurst
Troy Scott Smith, Head Gardener of England’s famed Sissinghurst Castle Garden, comes to Portland for a special speaking engagement. Troy has been leading a thoughtful evolution of this iconic garden, working to revive the original romantic vision of its creators, poet Vita Sackville-West and diplomat Harold Nicolson. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to hear firsthand about the history, research, and revitalization of one of the world’s most beloved gardens.
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Native Plants- Creating Reciprocity Through Language and Relationship to Place
Join us and speaker Joseph Ham of the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde for a special presentation about native plants.
Oct 2nd at 7 pm, Banks Public Library, 42461 N Market St, Banks
For more information:
https://wccls.bibliocommons.com/events/68a38194709d27410037bbb5
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From left to right: Cynthia Radler. Mary Hewitt, and Michael Donoghue talking dirt.
Mary Hewitt is being recognized as an MG of Note for her many contributions to our Chapter. She has been on the WCMGA Board for four years as the Recording Secretary, taking minutes and making an essential record of the Board’s proceedings which are posted to our website. Mary is a diligent volunteer at the Learning Garden, being the lead for the Small Fruits area and the Craft Herb Bed in the Pioneer Herb Garden. She also assists in the Espaliered Fruits area, is a key member of the planning team for the Learning Garden Fair and helps in many other areas of the Learning Garden. Mary is the liaison for the Learning Garden with THPRD Nature Kids Preschool staff, facilitating the mutually beneficial relationship which enables children to learn about nature and gardening skills.
Michael Donoghue is being recognized as an MG of Note for his indispensable contributions in the Learning Garden. He is the lead for the Composting area, which judging by smiles in the photo above with Mary and Cynthia, he must make interesting and entertaining. He is responsible for the many aspects of the garden’s irrigation system including monitoring, scheduling, responding to others about water needs in their areas and interfacing with the THPRD irrigation experts. Michael also helps in the Small Fruits area, teaches workshops on pruning climbing roses, assists with pruning in the Pioneer Herb Garden and supports a variety of projects in the Learning Garden.
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SPECIAL ACTS/MAKING A DIFFERENCE AWARD
Harriet Ottaviano is being recognized with the Special Acts/Making a Difference award for her dedicated contributions to our Chapter. Harriet has been on the WCMGA Board for four years as the Publicity Director. She has responsibility for managing publicity materials for our Chapter, ensuring branding guidelines for OSU Extension are followed for public programs, project events, materials, signage and electronic media. She distributes the information for our many Chapter events to multiple partner organizations, news organizations and the public.
Not only volunteering behind the face of WCMGA, Harriet is also actively involved in making excellent presentations to the public on topics such as gardening with PNW native plants, container gardening, roses, and disease and pest solutions for edible gardens. She also volunteers at Farmers Markets, special community tabling events and our Chapter member socials. She was an MG volunteer leading tours of the Rose Garden and she continues to lead tours for the public there.
Thank you, Harriet, for your volunteer activity in an exceptional manner that has had significant impact on and benefit to our Chapter and community
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From left to right: Dan MacDonald. Robin Burnham, and Karen Anderson
STATEWIDE RECOGNITIONS OF WCMGA MEMBERS
WCMGA member Dan McDonald was awarded a 2025 OSU Extension Master Gardener Behind the Scenes Award at the Joy of Gardening Conference in July. Dan was chosen for the award from nominations made by County Chapters from around the state. Two other awardees were Master Gardeners Colleta Allen from Jackson County and Stephanie Hazen from Marion County.
Also recognized at the Conference were Robin Burnham, State nominee and our WCMGA Master Gardener of the Year and Karen Anderson our WCMGA Behind the Scenes awardee.
The June Chapter Chat has details of their many contributions to Master Gardener programs.
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