Kankakee Kultivators chat just for fun after the April meeting. Pictured, left to right from back, are: President Burma Mathews, Vice President Karma Johnson, Past Presidents Gayle Fischer and Lois Ware, guest Nate Gibbs, Secretary Kathy Marcotte, and Membership Co-chairs Diane Gonczy and Barbara Edwards. Seated, from left, are new member Connie Lemon and Column Garden Chair Sydney Rose-Churney. –Photo submitted.

Kankakee Kultivators and other interested listeners crowded around Deb Terrill as soon as she finished presenting “Bee Informed: Separate Fact from Fiction” at the Kultivators’ April meeting. Eager to praise Deb, thank her, and ask even more questions about bees and honey, they poured out their compliments and appreciation.

Terrill, their spotlighted speaker for the day, had enlightened them with her impressive knowledge about several kinds of bees, some quite different from others. With colorful, amusing illustrative details and laughter, she taught her audience many gardening tips for nurturing both bees and the flowers they pollinate.

Deb Terrill, whom many know as a Daily Journal writer/expert on both gardening and cooking, also offered four of her current articles on bees and honey. To receive these articles, call 815-932-9452.

Kankakee Kultivators’ May program will spotlight Container Gardening: Both New and Tried-and-True Plants.” The club will feature two of their own long-experienced, expert container gardeners, Ann Harms and Josie Barnett, both past presidents of the club. All who have witnessed Harms’ and Barnett’s containers over the years can attest to their outstanding talents and know-how.

Ann and Josie will make suggestions, including both sun- and shade-loving annuals, the mainstays of container arrangements, and attractive plant combos. Those attending also should be on the lookout for some unexpected surprises.

Harms’ and Barnett’s program will begin at 1 p.m., Thursday, May 11, in the fourth floor auditorium of the Kankakee Public Library. All interested in gardening are invited. One of the Kultivators’ missions is to educate and share with the public, so club members invite and welcome all fellow plant-lovers. Starting at noon before the program, the Kultivators will hold their business meeting. Anyone interested in working with them to accomplish their missions is invited to join in the fun and become a member.

Also, mark your calendars for the Kankakee Kultivators’ annual Garden Tour on Thursday, June 22. This year, most of the gardens will be located near the northern edges of Bourbonnais.