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March 16, 2026

Plants that Earn Their Keep – with Jeffry de Jong

Horticulturist and all-around plant whisperer Jeff De Jong from Victoria, shares his crowd-favourite talk: “Plants That Earn Their Keep.” Think of it as a no-nonsense guide to getting maximum joy (and maximum bang for your loonie) out of your Pacific Northwest garden.

Why Your Garden Needs This Talk

Living in the Pacific Northwest is a gardener’s dream — mild winters, a long growing season, and more plant choices than you can shake a trowel at. But it’s not all roses (literally). Tricky topography, poor soils, and the occasional deer eyeing your prized hostas can keep gardeners on their toes.

Jeff will arm attendees with his personal A-list of trees, shrubs, and perennials that look great, survive the challenges of our climate, and keep our gardens a place of genuine joy. Expect practical tips, plenty of plant inspiration, and just the right amount of nerding out over botany.

Jeff has spent the past 21 years gardening and teaching on Vancouver Island, lending his expertise as an instructor in UVic’s Continuing Education department and as a sought-after guest speaker for gardening clubs across BC. He’s also led international garden tours, so yes — this man has seen some gardens. When he’s not teaching or touring, Jeff is painting watercolors, learning pottery, and gardening in Port Angeles with his partner David and their dog Lucy.

Bonus: Spring-a-Friend & Plant Sale!

This meeting features the beloved Spring-a-Friend event, where non-members can attend for FREE. So, drag your neighbour, your coworker, your family member who keeps buying plants at the grocery store — everyone is welcome.

In-person attendees will also have the chance to browse a plant sale before the meeting. Because let’s be honest — there’s always room for one more plant.

This will be a ‘hybrid’ in-person and Zoom meeting:

• All ZOOM meetings will begin at 7:00 pm.
• All IN-PERSON meetings: doors will open at 6:30 pm, and meetings start at 7:15 pm.
• In-person meetings (presentation-only) may also be accessible by Zoom from your home.

HOW TO ATTEND:

All current CVHS members will receive a Zoom invitation before this meeting.

NOT A MEMBER?

If you are not a CVHS member and would like to join us, please CLICK HERE to purchase a guest pass by Friday, March 13, no later than 5:00 pm, for $5.50, as it takes 2 days to process.

Please join us!