CT Annual Flower & Garden Show

Every year at the Connecticut Convention Center in Hartford, organizations within the green industry get together  to educate the public on their product and new knowledge that is discovered. We have had the pleasure to be apart of the show since 2015! We set up a booth for information and we also are part of the show! Earth Tones sets up a exhibit designed by our very own!

Here are our previous years:

2015

2016

Landscape Description

Here in Connecticut we are lucky to have so many rich ecosystems and ecologies in such a small area.  Our representation of the rocky highlands, the wooded ecosystems, the many watercourses and sunny beaches on the Long Island Shores, exemplifies the vast amount of natural resources in our state.   Water is a powerful force, and in Connecticut it presents itself in many ways, through trickling streams, waterfalls, rivers and ponds.   The beaver pond is included because, besides man, it’s the only other animal that greatly alters the landscape communities.

We rely on these resources for harvest from the forests, soils, and water, but we also hike, swim and play in these beautiful landscapes.  We immerse ourselves in the energy, and serenity of nature. Ecology has many facets.  The desire to learn about the sciences is sparked by experiencing nature.   It is imperative that we allow and encourage the next generation to explore and respect nature. 

When we see land as a community to which we belong, we may begin to use it with love and respect – Aldo Leopold, 1948

Intent

Each region has its own unique ecological treasures that should be studied, enjoyed and protected. It is imperative that we allow and encourage the next generation to explore and enjoy nature.  If we keep our hearts and minds open we will learn much while conserving the integrity of a place and become part of the system as intended.   We all share in the responsibilities and treasures of our natural resources. 

Earth Tones is dedicated to reestablishing the connections between people, place and the natural world that surrounds them.  

When we see land as a community to which we belong, we may begin to use it with love and respect – Aldo Leopold, 1948

 

2017

Landscape Description

By the late 1800’s the New England Woodlands were only 25% of the landscape.  The Virginia rail fence and the old chestnut post and wire give historic clues to the farm practices that once dominated the New England landscape.  Stumps throughout a forest often hint at past lumber harvesting.   Humans have always used the forest and all its resources, and sometimes, painfully abusing them.   As we come to understand the intricate workings and regenerative forces within the forest, we can now learn to work with in the magical balance of nature. 

Come visit me in my cabin, nestled in the whispering pine forest.  Listen and learn as the forest reveals her magic. Listen for the sound of the white water cascade, freely flowing through lush green carpets of moss.  Allow the babbling brook to invite and delight you!  Rejoice in the cool and refreshing essence. Relax and contemplate the renewing energies of each drop.  Then, if you follow the trail, there is a hidden cave!  Approach cautiously… Caves hold the allure of a different world that sparks our imagination.

The woods are a truly magically system that provides food, water and shelter for many species of creatures, great and small!  Welcome to our Enchanted Woodlands!

Intent

CT Forest ecosystems have provided for humans since we first stepped foot on the land. We still rely on them to provide food, clean water, fuel, shelter, recreation and livelihoods.  The first saw mill in CT, built in 1623, was in Hartford County.  But by the late 18oo’s only 25% of the area remained as forest.  Because of this many animals were extirpated like white tail deer, turkey, beaver, bear and elk.

Now that we have a better understanding of the woodland ecosystem, with proper management the forests have regenerated.  From responsibly harvesting timber, to harvesting food for our table, each time we experience the bounties and wonders of the woodland we are amazed, delighted and enchanted by the energy within.  Even something as simple as a hike on a woodland trail renews, invigorates and inspires.

2018

Description

Episode IV  – A New Hope,  Your Back Yard Oasis

Our environment is in peril! How can you help?

By starting in your own Backyard! 

Everyone can do their part to save the world starting in their own back yard!

It’s as simple as using native plants to provide for our pollinators, birds and other wildlife.

  • Provide a water source for beauty, sound, and wildlife.
  • Eliminate chemicals that poison our ground and water supply.
  • Re-purpose old objects! The “green wave” of  bottles in the retaining wall illuminates that concept very well.
  • Create a “Freedom Lawn”! It still allows for play time, yet provides texture, color and expands biodiversity.

America’s backyards are fertile grounds for an ecological revolution.

In the words of the great Ecological “Jedi”  Master,   Aldo Leopold  “Land, then, is not merely soil; it is a fountain of energy flowing through a circuit of soils, plants, and animals.”  

By using native plants, one backyard at a time, we can begin to strengthen our ecological community.  As the  group effort of a community  increases, so does the strength of that community and its health.

As Spring arrives, a New Hope is born.

Intent

Welcome to our Episode IV – A New Hope, In your own Back Yard!

Our environment is in peril! How can you help?

By Starting in your own Backyard! 

Americas backyards are fertile grounds for an ecological revolution.

There is no better time than now to begin your restoration of the land that you are stewarding.

Every backyard, no matter how big or small has the potential for great things.

 In the words of the  Ecological “Jedi”  Master,   Aldo Leopold  “Land, then, is not merely soil; it is a fountain of energy flowing through a circuit of soils, plants, and animals.”  

Let your land pour beauty into your life by being in harmony with the ecological system we all share.