Letter to the Editor: Planters Garden Club thanks many for tree

To the Editor:

The Community Project Committee of the Planters Garden Club wanted to give a gift to the community in honor of one of our co-founders – Anna Bowditch – who was devoted to many island interests and activities.

The beautiful palm tree on Park Avenue (across from PJ’s Seagrille) did not survive the two past two cold winters, and thus began our project. After checking with the Fort Myers landscape division, we were granted permission to plant a tree on Park Avenue. 

After researching with a local palm expert, we chose a Maypan palm, which is more resistant to cold weather. We were introduced to “our hero” (who shall remain nameless at his request), who agreed to help us with this project. The perfect tree was found by this man, and indeed it even had a curve.

It was then brought from its birthplace – Palm Island ­– by Steve’s Landscaping to Boca Grande.

Tom Dixon and Steve’s Landscaping prepared the tree bed for us and the process began.

Kathleen and J.T. Turner provided the hoses and started watering in the beginning, but without the diligent care of Joy Wyman, who watered the palm throughout the entire summer, it would not have survived the summer months.

Finally, Peter and Lisa Sallee of Affordable Landscaping dressed the tree bed with lovely dark mulch. Now we have a beautiful and healthy palm tree for the community to enjoy.

Many, many thanks to all of the people who contributed their generous time and energy to make this project possible. Without their interest and support, this would not have been possible.

We are so proud to be a part of Boca Grande.

The Planters Garden Club