Gore District Council Transitions to Summer Flower Displays

The Gore District Council has begun the seasonal transition of flower beds in the town centre, swapping out spring blooms for vibrant summer plants. Head propagator Vicki McKinnel led the changeover, implementing her design that featured striking combinations of Gypsophila (baby’s-breath), dark purple tulips, and pansies. This floral arrangement adorned roundabouts and nature strips throughout the spring, attracting positive attention from local residents.

Many community members expressed curiosity about the fate of the removed flowers, inquiring on social media platforms about how they could obtain the discarded plants. McKinnel addressed these questions, explaining that some flowers are composted, while larger bulbs are preserved for future seasons. Additionally, the council donates surplus flowers to a local garden club for sale. “There’s no waste,” she emphasized.

As the transition unfolded, some observers noted that the timing seemed early, with flowers being pulled before reaching full bloom. McKinnel clarified that this practice is vital for future planning; the next replanting is scheduled for around Easter 2024, and certain spring flowers would perish before that time, necessitating their removal. The council’s parks and recreation department has faced criticism in the past for perceived wastefulness concerning floral displays and public funds.

Despite the scrutiny, Keith McRobie, the council’s parks and recreation manager, has made a name for himself with his bold decisions, earning the moniker “chainsaw Keith” after removing old trees in Bannerman Park. McKinnel acknowledged that his willingness to prune unstable trees proved beneficial during recent destructive winds.

With approximately 37 years of experience at the council, McKinnel has developed a keen understanding of what designs flourish in public spaces. She enjoys experimenting with textures and varying plant heights, having learned through both success and failure. “One lot of kale was great, and one lot was a disaster,” she reflected. “I won’t grow that again. You live and learn.”

As summer approaches, residents can anticipate a diverse array of flowers, including statice, marigolds, salvia, helichrysums, shasta daisies, and petunias. McKinnel plans to vary the color schemes across different areas to create a cohesive flow throughout the town centre. “In summer, we get a bit more variance,” she noted, promising a visually engaging experience for locals and visitors alike.

The Gore District Council’s commitment to seasonal floral displays not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the town but also reflects a thoughtful approach to horticulture and community engagement. As the summer season unfolds, residents can look forward to enjoying the vibrant colors and textures that McKinnel and her team meticulously curate.