Community Encouraged To Participate In Petunia Project
Posted
Jennifer Peryam-jperyam@timesuniononline.com
Gary Parker is encouraging people to plant petunias in Warsaw to beautify the city, encourage economic growth and tourism.
Parker, owner of Parker Turf and a Kosciusko County master gardener, said he chose the red petunia because they are easy to grow and readily available.
Parker said he lives by the motto "helping others grow."
He said the planting would be a positive way to get children and adults involved in the process.
"The idea for this is a community project to be done by the young and old, regardless of age and income," Parker said.
Groups such as churches, work places, service organizations, local government and schools could participate in planting petunias.
"My hope is to get people to plant red petunias whether it be a pot sat by a front door or planted around a mailbox or a window box or a patch in the garden," Parker said.
Parker said Holland, Mich., is known for its tulips, and he hopes Warsaw will one day be known for its red petunia project.
Parker said he approached Warsaw Mayor Ernie Wiggins with the idea Thursday.
He also has expressed his idea to the Kosciusko County Convention and Visitor's Bureau, Warsaw Community Development Corp., Warsaw Community Public Library, and the Warsaw Community Schools superintendent.
Parker said petunias are annuals that are available for purchase in April, and can be planted in May.
"I believe the community joining together to plant petunias encourages people to make the community more attractive and encourage travelers to come off the highways to visit the city," Parker said.
Parker said he understands this is a project that will not take place overnight, and will take time, but will benefit the community.
People who have questions. or groups and organizations who want Parker to come speak to their group about the project. can contact Parker at parkerturf@gmail.com or visit parkerturf.com
