DISTRICT IX MEETING - 2025 

District IX Ingomar Garden Club Speech by Julie Barnes

Fundraising to support community projects is very important to all of our clubs. Ingomar's major fundraiser has been our Spring Plant Sale that was introduced in 1946 as plants dug from members' gardens, fondly known as "dig-gums," were sold from a home garage. A whopping $65 was earned, equivalent to $1075 today. In 1950, bedding plants were ordered for the first time to augment sales.  When not delivered on plant sale day, members were left scrambling, but, they improvised and still made money. Club practice then was to replace plants that did not grow. No questions asked?  Over the years, many ideas have been tried successfully or unsuccessfully to further increase revenue. Our early plant sale locations varied until we settled into what was known as Commodore Perry Plaza in 1991at the corner of Route 19 and Ingomar Road. Inclement weather did not deter loyal customers eager to purchase our lovingly raised dig-gums or impeccable annual selections. But, daylilies or hosta that were once big sellers became wildlife fodder making them less appealing, while many safe plants were considered too common. The hunt has been on for plants that will suit changing garden needs. This year, the opportunity arose to relocate our plant sale site after 33 years to our departed Greybrooke Garden Club's corner at McCandless Crossing on Mother's Day weekend. Before COVID, this had been our original plant sale date. Additional advertising brought in more customers, while McCandless Crossing shoppers were able to stop in to make great Mother's Day purchases. It was a positive transition as we continue to change and improvise.

Julie Barnes, IGC President, September 4, 2025