The Robertsdale Garden Club began its new year earlier last month by welcoming Charlotte Hamm, a Baldwin County Master Gardener, along with five new guests.

Hamm led a demonstration on air layering camellias, a propagation technique that encourages a branch to develop roots while still attached to the parent plant. Once rooted, the new plant can be separated and grown independently. Hamm explained that air layering is a simple process requiring minimal resources and that camellias thrive in the region's acidic soil. She noted that it takes about six months for the method to take hold and answered questions from attendees.

Following the presentation, Katie Warren distributed tickets for the Gulf Shores Floral Seminar, which took place Jan. 22. Hilda O'Clair reported that the club donated $375 to assist with utility bills for those in need, with $300 coming from the club and $75 contributed by members.

The meeting concluded with a door prize drawing, which was won by Beth Robinson.

The Robertsdale Garden Club meets at 10 a.m. on the second Tuesday of each month at the George P. Thames Adult Activity Center, 22651 E. Chicago St., Robertsdale.