QBARS - v11n2 A New Chapter is Formed

A New Chapter is Formed

The southeastern section of the United States is potentially one of the best rhododendron areas in the country. Until recently this area has been woefully undeveloped in this field.

A "Southeastern Chapter of the American Rhododendron Society" was formed in Asheville, N.C. on March 13th at a meeting in the George Vanderbilt Hotel. The charter members voted to send a petition to the parent organization seeking formal acceptance of this status.

In all 20 members signed for membership. It is encouraging to note that they cover a considerable geographical spread and marked climatic differences. Two members live in Charlotte, N. C., in the Piedmont, while one comes from Seneca, S. C., and yet others are from several localities in the western mountains.

This western area contains one of the richest floras in the world and is especially suited to Rhododendron culture. In spite of elevations of from 2,000 to more than 5,000 feet, winters are generally mild, there is seldom oppressive heat and, in more favored sections, rainfall exceeds 80 inches per year.

Some present members have more than one hundred of the newer hybrids under test and initial results are most encouraging. Extensive collections of rare native species and varieties are also being formed.

Officers for the new organization are:
President: J. R. Brooks, Enka, N. C.
Vice-president: Dr. Ernest H. Yelton, Rutherfordton, N. C.
Secretary-Treasurer: W. H. (Buck) Thorne, Asheville, N. C.

All Rhododendron enthusiasts in the area are cordially invited to join with us in giving full development to our great potential.