Annual Lewiston GardenFest returns June 21-22

Lewiston GardenFest, sponsored by the Lewiston Garden Club, is back for its ninth year of showcasing the historic Village of Lewiston and the community's love of gardening Saturday, June 21, and Sunday, June 22. A free garden walk highlights gardens of local Lewiston residents.

Located along Center Street, the festival includes demonstrations from master gardeners and floral society representatives along with more than 50 vendors selling flowers, plants, garden art and more to beautify one's outdoor space. A free garden walk highlights gardens of local Lewiston and Youngstown residents.

GardenFest runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days.

"Whether you are just beginning to garden or have an established green thumb, Lewiston GardenFest offers plenty of how-to information from master gardeners in addition to special finds for everyone from our various vendors," said Barbara Landree, Lewiston GardenFest chairwoman. "The event continues to grow each and every year, and this year we are excited to introduce new 'Garden Talk' demonstrations for visitors to watch and learn on a number of topics from local experts."

These "Garden Talks" are scheduled for both days of the event at the Community Tent located in the center of the festival route. On Saturday at 11 a.m., Mark Yadon, vice president of Mischlers Florist and Greenhouse, will demonstrate techniques for perennials in containers, including plant selection, care, maintenance and overwatering. At 2 p.m., Connie Oswald Stofko, publisher of Buffalo-NiagaraGardening.com, presents "Get Crafty in Your Garden," featuring ideas for items you can make for your garden as well as from your garden.

On Sunday at 11 a.m., Bob Brachikawski from Opportunities Unlimited presents "Herbs from garden to kitchen, gifts to use in cooking." New York state certified nursery and landscape professional Colleen Gaskill will show how different color tones and textures of plants can complement each other at 2 p.m. in her demonstration titled "The Married Couple."

Looking for an answer to a specific plant or garden problem? Representatives from Cornell Cooperative Extension, the Hosta & Daylily Society, and the Iris Society will be available to answer gardening questions throughout the weekend. Cornell Cooperative Extension also will provide soil sample analysis.

Several Lewiston and Youngstown residents will showcase their private gardens and open them up to the general public. Join the free garden walk and view almost 20 public and private gardens, including the Gardens at Oxbow, Saturday and Sunday. These gardens, varying in size and style, are located both within walking distance and also a short drive from Center Street. Maps highlighting the featured gardens will be available during the event at one of the hospitality booths.

Hesitant to create a large garden or just don't have the space? Put your green thumb to the test and participate in the container garden contest. Bring your special garden in a planter or any type of container, along with a stand for display, to the hospitality booth at Fourth and Center streets by 9 a.m. Saturday. Be creative and incorporate out-of-the-box accessories.

Festivalgoers will be able to vote for their favorites throughout the weekend. Prizes will be awarded to the top vote-getters.

Lewiston GardenFest is free to attend. All proceeds are given back to the local community or civic beautification and scholarships. The Town of Lewiston, the Village of Lewiston, the Niagara Falls Bridge Commission, the Modern Corp., Walmart and dozens of local businesses sponsor GardenFest.

For more information, visit www.lewistongardenfest.com.