Cultura Garden Club held its April meeting at the Franklin County Chamber of Commerce board room.  Cheri McCain and Michelle Sibley served as co-hostess.

Bradley Townsend was guest speaker.

The Townsend Family Farm is a veteran-owned family farm in northwest Alabama. They are committed to raising fresh and sustainably-grown products free of pesticides, herbicides and fungicide.

Mr. Townsend stated, “Our commitment ensures that we do our part to help keep the environment and our community as healthy as possible.”

They offer a variety of products each season that include vegetables and fresh flower bouquets.

Recently the Townsend Family Farm was accepted by the Sweet Grown Alabama Foundation. This is a non-profit foundation that seeks to connect farmers with their local market.

When you are shopping, be sure to look for the “Sweet Grown Alabama” logo. This ensures you are buying the freshest, highest-quality products while also supporting your neighbors.

One unique thing Bradley said he likes to do is experiment and sees what “bizarre” plants can be grown in our area. Currently, they are trying to cultivate a citrus fruit from the Peru/Ecuador region of the world.  These plants seeds are now over 8 months of growth and are so close to having ripe fruit. He said, “It’s been a cool plant to learn about and cultivate.”  F

or more information visit The Townsend Family Farm on Facebook.

Chase Sparks, a member of the Downtown Restoration Committee, talked briefly about the Main Street organization. Russellville is on the list for consideration of being selected by the Main Street organization for making improvements downtown. Cultura Garden Club was asked to support the Main Street endeavor by continuing our beautification projects downtown.

After discussion, members voted to continue our current beautification projects downtown, which will support the Main Street.

Debbie Beason presented the institute on Gardening for Monarch Butterflies. Each member received a printed copy of the Monarch Joint Venture – partnering across the U.S. to conserve the monarch migration.

Brenda Oliver, Horticulture Committee chair, reported on the plans for cleaning out the pots and baskets in preparation for planting new plants. A schedule was given to each member, and the tentative date for beginning this project will begin in May.

The garden club’s spring plant sale fundraiser was a success, and the orders will be delivered the first of May before the Mother’s Day celebration.

Patricia Cox reported the Open Farm Day at Mooresville will be held May 7 from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m.  Also the Mooreville Spring Market will be hosted that day. This will be an opportunity to walk the streets and enjoy the historic town’s way of life.

These events will feature curated artisan shopping from craftsmen and special learning events. Fresh and dried flowers will be available to purchase at the Flower Truck as well as the favorite 1818 Farms products.  There is no charge for either event. Members interested in this day trip were asked to sign up.