+green your scene

Set aside time to ready for warmer temps!
Spring, reliably unpredictable in its conditions, officially arrives on Saturday morning. All sorts of plants will be sprouting, and now is the time to take extra steps to protect your plants. Many members still have peas, beans and other crops growing outdoors that are sensitive to a freeze. To keep them going, keep them warm and give them cover that suits your budget, varieties and your space.
Read Love Your Leaves tips below if you need a review!
Or attend a workshop for more outdoors fun and learning:

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AT THE Hq: swap resources in celebration!
As stewards of city spaces, urban gardeners can help neighbors by exchanging resources. The 12 steps to sustainability offers some ideas but conservation through collaboration is one of the easiest. Do less, by working with others. Improves our environment, any time of year.

Have a truck? Need a truck?
Seeking soil amendments or looking to lighten your load?
PLEASE SWAP WITH AND ASSIST OTHER GG NEIGHBORS!
It isn't easy to coordinate the many things we need to do these days, but collaborative efforts are indeed much more effective. EMAIL GG. Help neighbors! No question you will benefit too.
A good feeling goes along way.  There's no pain for this gain!

NEW FOR SPRING 2010:
LOG IN TO SEE THE greenzineABQ ONLINE: use your email and password to log on.
greenzineABQ is now online for members at www.GardenersGuild.org!
For those who asked for a paper-saving internet version, navigate to the new member monthly habitat action guide. The dynamic nature and diversity of our city requires a bridge in communication amongst citizens, organizations and their wonderful projects. It is written by the community and for the community, so please let friends and family know that submissions are encouraged.  Grow greener in desert conditions!

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LYL: For basic plant protection you can...
1. mulch them and 2. cover them as explained below.
Mulching, with almost any biodegradable material, will keep soil warmer and sheltered from the stripping effects of wind. The layer must allow air circulation, as will most organic materials, but also be thick enough to insulate (1-2 inch on average). Dried leaves, straw, pine needles or pecan shells can be easily applied to existing plantings of any kind and store more warmth. (Email GG if you have more questions about particular mulching materials.)
As cover, two options are most common. Plastic sheeting will retain much of the heat gained from sun each day, so this is a great way to protect for colder parts of the city such as the East Mountains or North Valley. However, it does require more maintenance as the plastic must be lifted each day for circulation. Frost blanket, affordable and available at GardenersGuild, will provide sufficient insulation for many area gardens as it keeps the freezing moisture off of plants and retains some heat through the night. Take care to tuck your cover over every side to ensure that blowing winds don't blast right through your bed.
For additional tips, and there are many.
Visit GG or read online.

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Gardening might not save the world. But on the other hand, maybe it will.
Three simple steps to greener streets;
1. Begin composting if you don't yet,
2. Grow more food this coming spring, and
3. Reduce your use of chemicals.

Gardeners'Guild Headquarters:
4012 Central SE   ABQ NM 87108   505.268.2719   info@gardenersguild.org
Mon-Wed, by appt. Thurs-Sat open to the public 10am-6pm
www.gardenersguild.org

It's a good time to start
almost any type of project:

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Need suggestions to grow a greener environment?

Take on a small project!
Virginia Burris recommends to members:
"I have come across a wonderful sounding project that I have joined and am going to recommend that my April classes check out and join. It is from the Xerces Society of Invertebrate Conservation and is called the Great Sunflower Project. They are offering citizens of US and Canada to take part in a tracking project of bee populations, and are found online at www.Xerces.org.
Much is unknown in the bee world on bee distributions and decline/or recovery of bee populations so are asking citizens to register and participate in collecting bee population figures. Participation requires planting the annual native sunflower Helianths annuus var LEMON QUEEN, available from Botanical Interests.  Take 15 minutes of observation 2 times per month noting what bees visit a particular sunflower. Last year it was found that some gardens which seemed bee friendly has no bees, other places had many bees..." Join the effort to learn more through the collective participation of individuals.

Take a stand, for organics! Give your input on GMOs:
The USDA has alarmingly and mistakenly announced that they do not believe that consumers care whether or not GMO's are a part of our food supply and our agricultural production. Approving GMO alfalfa, for example would significantly harm the integrity of and access to organic food as well as the livelihoods of independent organic farmers.  We need to show them that we do indeed care!
Please take a moment! You can still submit your comments to the USDA by following this link from Food Democracy Now! Every voice counts!

OR Contribute locally to your community:
A. Send submissions to info@gardenersguild.org!
No topics barred. Your knowledge, including recommendations for resources, events and responsible local companies are critical in this exercise of improving our world through sharing.
B. If you are a current members and haven't received your copy, or would like to renew and receive greenzineABQ by mail, please log in to your profile using your email, {Contact_Email} and password to update your postal address online.

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EVENTS: Making Schools the Model for Healthier Environment, a NEW WEBINAR SERIES for educators.
From The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Center to Prevent Childhood Obesity and for colleagues in the field.

You're Invited! Learn best practices for addressing childhood obesity, and strategies for using policy and environmental change to reverse the epidemic of childhood obesity.

Each webinar will be held bi-monthly on Thursdays at 2 p.m. Eastern (1 p.m. Central, 11 a.m. Pacific), and will discuss initiatives currently underway to ensure that schools become the standard for healthy eating and active living. These webinars will feature researchers, advocates, and policymakers discussing solutions to problems that schools face in providing healthy food and opportunities for physical activity. These sessions will also provide resources to help make schools healthier.
Register for any or all of the four webinars in this series:
March 11 - Sowing Seeds: Improving Food Quality with Farm-to-School
March 25 - Setting the Standard: What Schools Are Doing
April 8 - Let’s Get Physical: Being Active to Reverse Child Obesity
For more information about this webinar series visit: www.reversechildhoodobesity.org.
Follow them on Twitter:  www.twitter.com/RWJFCenter.

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LYL: loving your leaves this week means...
REMOVING HEAVY MULCH and replace it with a lighter, fresh layer. This will reduce bug problems by disturbing their sleeping places, and restore moisture retention with a replenished mulch layer. Perennials will appreciate some circulation around the base, any bulbs you might have in the ground need a breather too.

AMMENDING YOUR SOIL WITH SAFETY by using well composted material, or organic material of most kinds. But don't use anything too fresh at this time! 'Too fresh' includes manure or large quantities of green waste that can cause a nitrogen imbalance if you are planting right away.

~ Source well-aged chicken poo, locally! Or use goat, llama and horse manure too, from small farms that don't use pesticides on their grass or antibiotics/hormones in their diet.

~ Source sawdust for a soil amendment that with most woods outside of pine, to retain moisture as micro-sponges from a local woodworker and urban troweler. Sawdust and shavings are an organic material that can be used to retain excellent moisture levels as an amendment, improve drainage and texture, prevent soil compaction, can be quickly composted with worms, or introduced now into soil with  compost such as manure for planting in May. Wood shavings and sawdust have the greatest advantage to a high desert garden as micro-sponges that, in our soil's high alkalinity, will break down very slowly. (Exerpted from greenzineABQ)

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Navigate your way to greener streets with Gardeners'Guild.
4012 Central SE   Albuquerque NM   87108   www.gardenersguild.org
email: info@gardenersguild.org     505.268.2719
hours: Hq by appointment Mon-Wed. Shop open Thurs-Sat 10am-6pm

What will you need for your projects this spring?
Whether a small raised bed, xeric conversion or backyard farm, now is the time to plan and prepare the space. Save this week and simplify the process: buy the basics now before good weather and winds come to cloud our planning with spring fever!

Focus on seed: make a natural choice.
Order your preferred spring seeds at the GardenersGuild Hq this week and save 25% from BountifulGardens.org, supporting sustainable agriculture. Select and ship your favorite varieties with no additional cost for excellent quality seed...
"Bountiful Gardens sells untreated open-pollinated non-GMO seed of heirloom quality for vegetables, herbs, flowers, grains, green manures, compost and carbon crops. We are able to offer many varieties as Certified Organic, Natural, Biointensive or Grow BiointensiveTM sustainable seed. CCOF Certified Organic Handler, CDFA OP #23-0336. Specialties: Rare and unusual varieties. Medicinal herbs. Super-nutrition varieties."

Seeds and soil are the key ingredients to start your garden right. Buying quality products is most important when time and money are tight. All GG recommendations are based on experience, research, and local gardener insight. So enjoy full-service benefits that Gardeners'Guild provides! Send inquiries to the urban gardening gurus (info@gardenersguild.org), and grow a plot this season that is out of sight!

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EVENTS:
coming next week, green your scene with greenzineABQ!
Gardeners'Guild is breaking with trend and putting print media to the proper task. A seasonally and regionally appropriate habitat handbook, greenzineABQ will work to bring the community and environment together. Look forward to news and perspectives, events and illustrations, how-tos and and helpful lists, with a saavy seasonal approach. Not all urban gardening needs can be met in one place, but this cutting-edge city digest will extend this group's 'full-service' location beyond physical borders.

Enjoy a fresh look at gardening in Albuquerque, with a little something for everyone. Created to provide local information, improve communication among trowelers along with visibility for projects or problems, this printed monthly mag will be available to members by mail or for pick-up.

MEMBERS, PLEASE UPDATE YOUR INFORMATION!
email the headquarters with details: {Organization_Contact_Email}
OR LINK TO YOUR PROFILE ONLINE: {Member_Profile_URL}
and reviewing your information.
SIGN ON with your email, {ContactField_e-mail} and password.

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AT THE Hq: Please lend your local perspective.
If you enjoy the Nob Hill area as a pedestrian, please contact city hall to support the Central and Morningside traffic light. Most importantly, the light will improve pedestrian safety and help to further unify the area.
Contact the office of Councilor Rey Garduño, District 6
email: reygarduno@cabq.gov
or Julian Moya: julianmoya@cabq.gov
Telephone: (505) 768-3152

Participate on a regional level:
"The Mid-Region Council of Governments (MRCOG) is beginning work on the 2035 Metropolitan Transportation Plan and is seeking public input via a survey.  This plan will provide a vision for future transportation in the central New Mexico metropolitan area.
Feedback regarding experiences traveling by car, train, bus, bicycle and walking are needed. Also, comments are sought related to what would benefit transportation in the region over the next 20 years. The survey will be available online until February 12, 2010.

Take the survey: www.mrcog-nm.gov/content/view/364/1/
To request a paper version or Spanish version of this survey, call 505-724-3639.

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LYL: additional tips for getting started
Create a plan to water your plants wisely.
Sketch out your space, sun exposure and the location of planned additions.
Mulch now to protect your soil. Mulch later to save moisture.
Varieties, planting methods and budget will indicate the type of mulch.
Seed for the right season...
"Cool season" varieties can be planted now through April or so, depending on the weather: carrots, cabbage, kale, lettuce, radishes and spinach are examples. "Warm season" varieties are those that like to grow in warmer temperatures. You can buy those seeds now, but most will not want to be planted outdoors until mid-April. Vegetables like cucumbers, tomatoes, beans and squash will freeze if temperatures

Based on germination temperatures, Gardeners'Guild will be ordering seed twice a month, February through June, selecting the most popular varieties and those that are seasonally appropriate. Feel sure you're planting at the best time by stopping by the headquarters, and bring your questions.
The first round of early-spring/late winter seeds will arrive next week.

Shopping for plants soon? Choose the right perennials for your space. Link to our lists of 'backbone' plants online, and recommended for most areas and tolerant of our extreme conditions.

Recommended resources: IN TOWN
For Native Plants, visit Desert Spring Nursery, The Great Outdoors, Plants of the Southwest, and Santa Ana Nursery
For those Special Interest Gardeners: Join a special interest club at the Albuquerque Garden Center and Council of Garden Clubs
Recommended resources: IN BOOKS
Follow this link to a list of recommended books on a broad range of topics.

Please send your recommendations to share with members!

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HEADQUARTER HOURS ARE NEW FOR 2010:
Monday-Wednesday, by appointment. Thurs-Saturday, 10am-6pm
These changes have been made to improve this organization's effectiveness -- your comments are encouraged to be sure that GardenersGuild continues to provide the assistance you need.

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Plot a course to greener futures with GardenersGuild!
Helpful info. Great quality. Good price. @gardenersguild.org
4012 Central SE   ABQ NM 87108     505.268.2719
Mon-Wed, by appointment. Thurs-Saturday, 10am-6pm. Sunday, closed.

The results are in.
Cutting edge researchers now understand why the human species has been able to develop our distinctively complex culture when others haven't. While as independent personalities, we might be drawn to books, DIY and self-education, compelling studies show that our comprehension and future potential is dramatically improved by being in a cluster of collected effort: www.pbs.org/thisemotionallife/topics. This Emotional Live, a new 3-part PBS series available online, persuasively demonstrates there are physiological reasons why humans are more effective, and live happier with their lives, when working in concert with others of our species.

Not only do we accomplish more working as a team, we learn better in a group. Chemicals produced by the body actually utilize the dimension of group experience to advance our understanding and enhance retention. This spring and summer, Albuquerque has a wide array of opportunities to create a healthier environment and an invigorated mind. So, get digging. Read on for workshops and other pathways to a stronger community and boosted brain power.

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Volunteer as part of a group effort with one of these projects and watch great things happen, like magic:
Get involved in kids' education. Volunteer at Zia Elementary to assist in their 3-year old and 'round garden and share your time and experience! From Sara Van Note, "Garden volunteer(s) needed!  The Zia Garden Club is an after-school gardening program that teaches kids grades K-5 about growing, preparing and eating healthy food.  We meet once a week for an hour and a half and work in raised beds and in-ground plots (in the winter we have a modified hoop house).  We strive to water using only rainwater and our garden is organic. Two teachers co-coordinate the program, which is grant-funded.  We would like to find a volunteer with gardening experience to help support the Garden Club on a regular basis.  This would be a great opportunity for someone to contribute to teaching the next generation the wonders of growing food!  So if you are patient, enthusiastic, knowledgeable and interested in helping out, please let us know!  In return we can offer you the bounty of delighted children, fresh and delicious veggies, and the opportunity to make a difference in your community."
Zia is located near Lomas and San Mateo, about a mile east of UNM.  Please contact Sara Van Note, Third Grade Teacher/Zia Garden Club Co-Coordinator, vannote@aps.edu for more information.

Rio Grande Community Farm needs board members focused on funding their important area projects and services. Details from Head Educator, Stephanie Dobbie: The Mission of the Rio Grande Community Farm is to connect people, food and public land by:
    •  demonstrating sustainable urban agriculture and community food security
    •  creating education and training opportunities in agriculture
    •  celebrating the traditions and culture of agriculture
    •  enhancing urban wildlife habitat
Qualifications
Dedication to the aims and objectives of the Rio Grande Community Farm, RGCF.
Has the ability and willingness to commit time, energy and resources to the RGCF.
Has business or organizational background which provides useful knowledge and skills to the RGCF.
Experience in one or more of the following would be useful to the board:
        •  Fund raising / Gift solitation
        •  Community outreach / volunteer coordination
        •  Public relations, news media connections
        •  Non-profit rules and regulations
        •  Advocacy  with elected officials, City / Open Space administration
        •  Agriculture
        •  Writing skills (e.g. grant proposals, solicitations letters)
        •  Web site development / administration
Responsibilities
1.    Attend monthly board meetings.
2.    Serve on standing committees.
3.    Set policy and procedure.
4.    Ensure fiscal responsibility for the welfare of the organization.
5.    Assist in fundraising efforts to maintain RGCF programs.
6.    Participate in and help staff projects and special events.
7.    Provide experience and expertise as abilities and time permit.
8.    Participate in community education and outreach.
9.    Promote the mission of the RGCF thru current memberships, affiliations and associations.
10.  Monetary donations are encouraged as resources allow.
11.  Become a dues paying member of Rio Grande Community Farm."
To see more about this productive organization: www.riograndefarm.org

Volunteer requests from Jedrek Lamb of the Hubbell House Alliance:
"2010 is going to be a very exciting year for the Hubbell House Alliance! It is a great time to become a member and be involved. Below is a list of the committees and their functions we are looking to fill in the coming season. If you enjoy visiting us, please become involved in any manner possible, from planning and protecting the future of HHA to enjoying the many events and lectures available to the public.
Docents
Develop and maintain a training program for conducting interpreted tours of the Hubbell House including the specific and regional history, the open space and surrounding cultural landscape.
Hold a docent recruitment event for the docents.
Secure funding to develop interpreted tours on the Hubbell house and the surrounding cultural landscape (with fundraising committee).
Outline a program and secure experts to do training.
Find people willing to become docents and develop tours with docent at end of training
Education/Educational Activities
Establish a plan to hold conferences on farming, history, etc.
Partner with other organizations to provide education on open space and natural history
Create educational programs for example traditional metal and jewelry making
Sponsor a bird watching program at the Hubbell House Property
Agriculture
Maintain a Heritage Orchard and Vineyard.
Support training programs, workshops conferences and interpretive tours for the farm and agricultural topics especially through partnerships.
Support open space for wildlife includes native grasses, flowers, shrubs, and trees.
Coordinate volunteer days for work on the property and the house.
Work towards organic certification.
Historian
Create a history of the Hubbell Gutierrez family and the impact of surrounding cultural influences.
Monitor and collect additional information, photos, stories, videos etc. on the area and its history.
Partners and Alliances
Help strengthen and define our partnerships
Establish working relations with pajarito village associations and other south valley neighborhood associations and look for new partnerships and collaborations
Work to coordinate our yearly calendar with that of our partners
Find out about events and the organization: www.hubbellhousealliance.org

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At the Hq: CRITICAL NEIGHBORHOOD ISSUE!
If you live in Nob Hill, and are concerned about pedestrian safety, please contact our City Councilor for District 6, Rey Garduno, to let him know that the new traffic light at Morningside and Central will improve your neighborhood. Call 768-3152 or email his policy analyst: julianmoya@cabq.gov

TAKING ACTION WITH NEW TOOLS...
In February, Gardeners'Guild will be (finally) debuting greenzineABQ, a monthly habitat action guide to assemble resources, disseminate information and facilitate conversation city-wide. Included with the Advocate membership, this handbook will The dynamic nature and diversity of our city requires a bridge in communication amongst citizens, organizations and their wonderful projects.

WE NEED YOU TO SHARE GOOD IDEAS AND LOCAL INFO!
A. Send submissions! No topics barred. Your knowledge, including recommendations for resources, events and responsible local companies are critical in this exercise of improving our world through sharing.
B. If you are a current members, or would like to renew and receive the new greenzine by mail, please log in to update your mailing address online!

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EVENTS: the wonderful world of spring and summer workshops

GGT Teacher Workshop & Garden Visit: Learn to Build a Worm Bin for class
Friday, January 22nd   4-6pm
Bandelier Elementary • free for APS staff to attend. $7 to take with you a newly assembled worm bin.

Urban Gardeners Series #1. Planning Your HIgh Desert Vegetable Garden
Saturday, February 13   9:30-noon
Harwood Art Center
$5 • free to members of Harwood, RGCF, Gardeners’ Guild or the Action Buzz Garden

HAC Sustainability Series: Workshop #1 - Pruning
Saturday, February 20
Harwood Art Center. Check for details closer to the workshop date:
1114 7th Street NW in Albuquerque, (505) 242-6367


$200 for the 2-day international conference. The Expo is free to the public.

Urban Gardeners Series #2. Dig Your Hands in the Dirt: Planting Your Vegetable Garden
What is the proper way to transplant a seedling? How should I lay out my garden? Should I plant in rows or use a different strategy? Get answers to these questions and more at this interactive workshop. Come with questions and leave with answers to dig in and get going right away!
Saturday, March 20
Rio Grande Community Farm
$5 • free to members of Harwood, RGCF, Gardeners’ Guild or the Action Buzz Garden

SEASONAL HIGHLIGHT!
The Wonders of Habitat Gardening – Getting Started with Virginia Burris
Session 1:  Friday, April  9  and 16, 2010 from 9 am to noon    OR
Session 2:  Saturday, April 10 and 17, 2010 from 9 am to noon.
Cost: $40 per session. Register online in February at gardenersguild.org

Why are gardens only thought of as a place for plants? Learn how to landscape your yard so it welcomes birds, bees, lizards, butterflies, and other living things. You will never want to go back to a garden limited to “just plants”. A garden planned only for plants is like cooking without adding salt, pepper and spices.
Learn how to create a backyard not only for wildlife but for yourself and your family. Provide a place for your children to connect with nature.

The class will cover the general requirements of a habitat – food, water, cover, a place to raise young, and a focus on native plants. Examples of the interactions between animals and native plants that can occur in your garden will be discussed and the habitat requirements of some native plants and animals will be described. Garden maintenance techniques that enhance the success of the habitat will be discussed. Attend this class and gain ideas you can use to design a garden that is friendly to wildlife as well as being beautiful.

HAC Sustainability Series: Bio-Fuels
Saturday, April 17th
Harwood Art Center - Check for details closer to the workshop date:
1114 7th Street NW in Albuquerque, (505) 242-6367

Urban Gardeners Series #3. Staying on Top of Things: Garden Maintenance
Oh, the weeds! And the bugs! This workshop will focus on keeping up with your flourishing garden by providing you with strategies to keep things healthy and vibrant. When to supplement with natural fertilizers, integrated pest management approaches and more will be covered.
Saturday, April 24
Action Buzz Garden
$5 • free to members of Harwood, RGCF, Gardeners’Guild or the Action Buzz Garden

Become a Master Composter
April 24-25 and May 1-2, 2010
    9am - 4:30pm on all 4 days
After a 15 year hiatus, applications are now being accepted for the revived Master Composter training program. The program with administrative support from the Bernalillo County Extension Service is a"sister" to the Master Gardener Program.

Application submission deadline is March 30, 2010.
Open Space Visitor Center, 6500 Coors Blvd NW
$25.00 administrative fee. The course fee is refundable to those who complete all aspects of the program. Complete program information is being posted at: http:// bernalilloextension.nmsu.edu/mastercomposter
Program applications and information are available from: johnzarola@comcast.net., 505.929.0414

Urban Gardeners Series #4. Sustainable Solutions to Vexing Problems: Preparing for the Height of Summer
By June, gardeners are preparing for the extreme sun and heat of the high summer months. Come learn about ways to prepare your garden before conditions become too intense. Sun shading, reducing water loss, the best times to be out in the garden (for the plants and for you) and more will be addressed.
Saturday, June 19
GardenersGuild Headquarters
$5 • free to members of Harwood, RGCF, Gardeners’Guild or the Action Buzz Garden

HAC Sustainability Series: Water Conservation
Saturday, June 26th
Harwood Art Center. Check for details closer to the workshop date:
1114 7th Street NW in Albuquerque, (505) 242-6367

Urban Gardeners Series #5. Seed Saving and Seed Swap
Saving seeds from successful crops is an excellent way to ensure bountiful future harvests. Seed saving can also help you develop a strain that is ideally suited for your conditions. Come learn all about seed saving and, for those of you who have some to share, swap your favorite varieties with others. Why save seeds? What seeds can be saved? How should they be stored? What about cross-pollination? Join us to learn all about the remarkable life of seeds!
Saturday, August 21
GardenersGuild Headquarters
$5 • free to members of Harwood, RGCF, Gardeners’Guild or Action Buzz Garden

WHEW! There's more coming, too. Email GG if you have questions!

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Navigate your way to greener streets with Gardeners'Guild.
4012 Central SE   Albuquerque NM   87108   www.gardenersguild.org
email: info@gardenersguild.org     505.268.2719
hours: Hq by appointment Mon-Wed. Shop open Thurs-Sat 10am-6pm

Goodbye 2009. Hello 2010!
Every day is a new day but nothing says 'fresh' like a new year.
After close to 6 years, and some bumps in the road, GardenersGuild has assisted hundreds of individuals towards creating their healthier and happier habitat. The GG mission to provide education and better access has empowered many curious and caring minds, serving a great variety of gardening interests. These independent weeders in Albuquerque have seeded projects of all sorts, spreading the benefits of growing more in urban environments. Fortunately the modern concentrations of people in cities magnifies the positive effects of each person. As Lao Tzu is quoted, "Small acts lead to great deeds."

NOW IS THE TIME TO GATHER OUR RESOURCES
While individual efforts are very powerful, the maw of a strained economy and troubled ecology are threatening to clamp down quicker than we can cause recovery, one by one. Individuals gathered into the GG membership have helped sustain this group, but working in collaborative ways is now necessary to reach sustainability as a community. Rapidly changing conditions and climate highlight the need to mobilize the strength of communities working together. And considering the dramatic disconnect from our environment, now must be the time and we every piece need to solve this puzzle.

LET'S TAKE ACTION WITH NEW TOOLS.
GG is gathering momentum to invigorate collaborative efforts within the Albuquerque area:
1. In February, Gardeners'Guild will be debuting greenzineABQ, a monthly habitat action guide to assemble resources, disseminate information and facilitate conversation city-wide. Included with the Advocate membership, the guide will bridge communication amongst citizens, organizations and their wonderful projects ongoing in this dynamic and diverse city.
2. GARDEN eXchangeABQ is moving into its next phase! This month, we will be taking the compiled recommendations to The City of Albuquerque, thanks to Councilor Rey Garduno and Trudy Jones who are taking the next crucial step to promote community gardening in our neighborhoods.
3. GardenersGuild educational workshops, for spring 2010:
Series #1 - 3 Parts. Planning, Planting and Maintenance - February through April.
Series #2 - 2 Part workshops. Habitat Gardening in April with Virginia Burris.
4. The GROWING GARDENS TEAM is now up and running with a great group of teachers, nurses, principals and social workers, to encourage schools to build educational gardens and train educators through new teachers' workshops.
EMAIL FOR INFORMATION if you work with APS and want to get involved.

WE NEED YOU TO SHARE GOOD IDEAS AND LOCAL INFO!
A. Send submissions! No topics barred. Your knowledge, including recommendations for resources, events and responsible local companies are critical in this exercise of improving our world through sharing.

B. If you are a current members, or would like to renew and receive the new greenzineABQ by mail, please log in to update your mailing address online!

C. Review the newly structured hours and services for GG Headquarters:
MORE GOOD NEWS!
    + Long-standing members can be given keyed access to the headquarters for meetings and activities outside store hours if so requested.

These changes have been made to improve this organization's effectiveness -- your comments are encouraged to be sure that GardenersGuild continues to provide the assistance you need.

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Plot a course to greener futures with GardenersGuild!
4012 Central SE   ABQ NM 87108     505.268.2719
Helpful info. Great quality. Good price. @gardenersguild.org

Gardening might not save the world. But on the other hand, maybe it will. If you're not yet convinced, cumulative data this decade clearly demonstrates that not only the environment benefits tremendously from people gardening in city spaces, but our health & psyche too.

These days when productivity is seen as the key to prosperity, 'connecting' by electronic device for speedy communicating and 'better' command of day-to-day situations is now unavoidable. However, consumed by this digital connection, we've lost contact with the environment around us and the ability to cope. It's becoming clear that connecting with nature is an absolute necessity for our survival, despite the cushion of modern comforts.

Since the 19th century, gardening has been seen as a specialty pursuit, cloaked in a mysterious knowledge of nature's ways, and reserved for the inexplicably green-thumbed. Those who gardened appeared to have the proprietary rights to its benefits and didn't necessarily share their wisdom and experience with others. During the Depression, when the most resilient tomato or lettuce variety could draw the best price, there was every reason to protect this kind of knowledge. But times, they are a-changin'. In reality, research shows that gardens and growing together are necessary components if we are to maintain a better quality of life in city spaces. We must reconnect with the environment and re-discover our instinctive abilities to grow plants for physical and mental health.

Our "retreat from the natural world is most evident in the young, but it is not a generational phenomenon. Instead, the ubiquity of the computer is changing the very essence of the human animal. We are in the midst of a historical change in 'our mode of vision'."  
(www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/12/14/AR2009121403347.html?hpid=topnews)

Research in the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health says the impact is particularly noticeable in reducing rates of mental ill health. In residential areas where green spaces were 40% or more of the residential total, children under 12 were 21% less likely to suffer from depression. The annual rates of 15 out of 24 major physical diseases were also significantly lower among those living closer to green spaces. (See a recap:  http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/8307024.stm or the study:  www.envplan.com/abstract.cgi?id=a35111)

Among more than 300,000 Dutch adults and children, those living near more "green spaces" tended to have lower rates of 15 different health conditions. Also remarkable, researchers have found that those who had more green around them suffered less when living on more restricted finances or status. This may seem obvious to many gardeners, but imagine the improved condition of those that you care for who don't garden now -- mandatory gardens begin to make more sense that mandating insurance. So, get growing more to reconnect. (For more reading: www.webmd.com or www.reuters.com).

Green your street for blue skies and better living in general!

Southwest gardening specialists now residing in Taos, Andy and Sally Wasowski, are the most persuasive advocates for revolutionary change in our landscape traditions. They give regional perspective to our specific challenges and preconceived notions. For your educational entertainment, try: The Landscaping Revolution: Garden with Mother Nature, Not Against Her.
Don't hesitate! Expand your habitat activities.
Try one of these three simple steps to greener streets:
1. Begin composting if you don't yet,
2. Grow more food this coming spring, and
3. Reduce your use of chemicals.

"Landscaping can no longer be seen as a war between Mother nature and us... we have to start giving back by creating sanctuaries for these displaced creatures around our homes".

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EVENTS: TODAY, Swing by the SVEDC's Open House!
Friday, December 18th, from 2pm - 5pm, the SVEDC is proud to invite the public to our holiday open house! We'll be featuring 24 of our local businesses, from Heidi's Raspberry Jam to Dolores' Salsa to What the Fudge and Lusty Monk's Mustard. Come for lots of free food, live music, drawings, holiday gifts, and fun for the whole family! And don't forget about our famous holiday Gift Baskets! Thank you being a part of the Economic Development Center's effort.
For more details or directions to their beautiful new building: www.svedc.org/

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Wishing you happy & safe holidays!
Explore your outer spaces. Express your ideas. Evolve through positive change.
4012 Central SE   ABQ NM 87108     505.268.2719
Helpful info. Great quality. Good price. @gardenersguild.org

Choose one simple step & begin improving your community and ecology!
Your neighborhood needs you, whether birds or befriended humans, to bring good things to your block. Each backyard could use a little 'bio-remediation' and it happens so easily with your participation, and city-smart solutions. see enews EVENTS below for related happenings.

This month, the help you need is available to start an easy eco-project:
1. Start a compost bin or pile this week, if you don't already recycle your green waste! Join in the GardenersGuild workshop this Saturday at 10am at the downtown Buzz Action Garden. To learn more reasons why composting is crucial for a healthy habitat, read this week's posting about bio-remediation from a local expert, online: www.gardenersguild.org/LYLhabitatarticles OR in person at the headquarters on Central SE.
2. Design a stylish or simple city coop now, to welcome spring chickens next year.
Introduce helpful companions to your garden space who specialize in fertilizing and pest removal. Need help? Contact GG Specialist Eustacia for design and construction assistance: 410-5497.
3. Attend the inaugural Homegrown Goods Exchange at GardenersGuild, a week from Saturday.
Collect and trade your goodies made with garden ingredients, or trade other things that could be used in another home gardener's row! Together extra stuff can be easily recycled and re-purposed. This event is open to members and non-members alike. Enjoy Open House atmosphere the 17th.
4. Support this group & your city habitat by purchasing the GardenersGuild 2010 habitat calendar. Available the last week of October, this calendar will help GG raise much needed funds. It will keep you growing all year with the weekly LoveYourLeaves program, and can also be used as an educational and environmental school fundraiser! If you would like to order in advance, contact the GG headquarters for info.

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AT THE Hq: supplies and time are still available for your cool season garden
It isn't too late to get seeds germinated, but it will be soon. GardenersGuild has the goods in stock that make winter veggies a no-brainer. Get last-minute answers when shopping for supplies. Seeds, soil, insulation and your enthusiasm will grow a hardy, holiday plot...

Here are the basic ingredients:
+ cool season seeds are available now with more on the way by week's end.
+ insulating 'frost blanket' is in stock, to be used with any kind of frame.
   An ample 12' x 12' section is $12 for members ($15 non-members) and is easy to 'install'.
   Larger sections are available upon request from the roll in-store for bigger plots.
+ organic soil is available for starts: member price is $9.60/1 cu ft or $12 for 1.5cu ft bags.
+ straw/coco-fiber transplant pots are available for a buck a piece
+ plastic growing pots are available for free.
(If you have extra, bring them by GG for 'reallocating' to another urban gardener.)

Greens, like spinach, lettuce and other specialty varieties are shallow-rooting and can be grown in almost any container. While root vegetables appropriate for cold temperatures, such as carrots and radishes, will need 8-10" in soil depth. You can start with a small pot or raised bed if growing winter vegetables is new for you. Find our intro article online.

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EVENTS: support your gardening habit and a healthy habitat!
Any events below will be a worthwhile investment in your garden's future...

This Saturday, October 10th • 10am @ Action Buzz Neighborhood Garden
WHAT: Urban Grower’s Collaborative Workshop Series
            Backyard Composting: from kitchen scraps to black gold
WITH: Walter Dods from Soilutions, Inc. in the South Valley
This workshop will focus on the construction and maintenance of a small residential composting system. A short presentation will be followed by Q&A and discussion. Topics will include • compost theory • essential ingredients • “creative” ingredients • various methods • troubleshooting + how to use your compost
Find the garden at 1255 8th Street NW -- 2 blocks north of Mountain at Summer Ave.
Admission is FREE for members of Gardeners’Guild, Rio Grande Community Farm and Harwood Art Center • Non-member admission is $5 (kids are FREE)
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Saturday, October 17th - Homemade Goods Exchange on the patio at GardenersGuild.
Do you have more dried rosemary, basil or prepared pickles than you can use this year? Have you been canning up a storm, trying to use or save all the seasonal goodies? Then gather up your extra edibles etc, preserved or otherwise, and exchange them for things other gardeners have got! Jams, sauces, seeds or homebrew, dried herbs or ornamentals and other preparations are all very welcome. Please be a part of this effort to make the most of resources and redistributing healthy goods.
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Sunday, October 18th - chicken coop visit. bring your Q's to get A's
To find if there is enough interest for a second coop visit, those intending to join in this chicken coop visit will need to RSVP by this Saturday, October 10th! This visit will be held only if enough members RSVP. Check your newsletters the 'week of' for confirmation and coop visit location.

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Make the most of your growing activities with Gardeners'Guild new group efforts:
Save money for your community, school or ecology project with GG's new buying group.
Save your time and other resources by growing year 'round and exchanging with others!

Explore your outer spaces.
Express your ideas.
Evolve through positive change, with GardenersGuild.
4012 Central SE   ABQ NM 87108     505.268.2719
Helpful info. Great quality. Good price. @gardenersguild.org

If you started seed for cool season veggies, or are planning to soon, make use of the weather reports to keep watch for your sprouts. True, the conditions in Albuquerque are unpredictable. But take note of the day's high, and look for varieties to germinate well when we reach the appropriate temperatures. If your winter veggies are on a southern exposure, and against a wall, the high temperature those seeds experience will be much warmer than the reported 'daily high'. Keeping an eye on your garden's exposure provides additional information as the sun's angle lowers, and trees begin to lose their leaves.
    Sample germination temperatures...
Beets            55-80°
Broccoli        around 70°
Carrots        50-75°
Cauliflower        around 70°
Chard            55-80°
Kale            65-85°
Lettuces        60-70°
Other greens        50-70°
Radishes        45-85°
Spinach        55-70°
Turnips        65-75°
If you started seed a couple of weeks ago, and no sign of them has yet appeared, there's a good chance they will when conditions are right.

+ Remember the 'time and date' telephone number? Seems like centuries ago.
Fortunately, there is an online location now for the information, and it proves just as useful. If you don't watch local news, try this link for weather:  www.timeanddate.com/worldclock/city.html?n=394

HABITAT MATTERS, to put it simply.
In an city setting, it is diversity that creates an active and engaging environment. The variety of people and interests found in Albuquerque provides one of the most essential elements for a healthy community, integrating many perspectives and skills to enrich and improve our quality of life. In gardening, and growing our own oasis, the same element of diversity is required to reap the widest benefits afforded by the bigger idea of habitat. But how is it possible to gather all of these specific points of interest into one cooperative effort? GardenersGuild! Albuquerque's habitat headquarters.

It may sound too expansive for one organization to accomplish, but GardenersGuild was created as a support group - building access, education and empowerment for individuals - that multiplies energies by linking people and interests together under one common cause: to improve our outer spaces. Even one simple act in support of your near environment creates a ripple effect with wider benefits in the end. The effort to improve or 'green' our urban scene needs each person sharing their interests and resources to grow that healthy habitat, and promote positive change.

That's why GG membership exists and can change the future of our community. If you support your habitat, please continue your contribution as a gardeners'guild member and share with others the benefits of being a participant in growing our Albuquerque habitat. The world is a better place if we each take that one step, one at a time, together.

AT THE Hq: Seasonal service and supplies come together for expanded member support.

The INROADS: member marketplace is debuting today with a selection of the highest quality and carefully chosen collections to easily color your spring garden or containers. Access good prices and great quality on seasonal supplies, when you need it. It offers the best choices, with seasonal information, for our extreme habitat. INROADS, is a new tool to offer members the best service by integrating guidance and good value to simply sustainability.

Help us make this transition to sustainability by experimenting with this new avenue for sourcing your supplies + provide feedback to be sure your favorite supplies do not get omitted.

For more information on spring-blooming bulbs:
www.gardenersguild.org/bulbs

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EVENTS: made possible thanks to member contributions!
Saturday, SEPT 12 - cool season workshop, with Deb Brubaker at Rio Grande Community Farms
Saturday, SEPT 26 - chicken coop visit. bring your Q's to get A's
Saturday, OCT 10 - composting made easier, with Walter Dodds of Soilutions
Sunday, OCT 18 - chicken coop visit #2... enjoy a casual learning experience, and get another opportunity to refine your coop design.

The GG calendar lists these events. Check your newsletters for coop visit locations the week prior.

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LoveYourLeaves:
Make the most of your growing activities with Gardeners'Guild new group efforts!
  +  Submit an original article and/or photographs to post for the community
  +  Help in planning a harvest and habitat festival. Contact the Hq now.


Explore your outer spaces. Express your ideas. Evolve through positive change.
4012 Central SE   ABQ NM 87108     505.268.2719