What is the best way to help rid the community of an invasive species? Pick it, bake it into something delicious, and eat it up!
The Langley Demonstration Garden is celebrating its 11th annual Open House with a barbeque and Blackberry Bake-Off on Wednesday, August 17. From 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., guests are encouraged to visit the Demonstration Garden at 4887 – 221 Street to enjoy a locally grown barbeque lunch by donation and indulge in blackberry treats.
A mini farmer’s market, live music and dancing, and a chance to make eco art or a bird feeder will also be held.
Budding bakers and culinary connoisseurs are encouraged to enter a blackberry creation for a chance to win prizes and accolades from judges and tasters.
“We get such creative entries in the Bake-Off, from blackberry barbeque ribs to old fashioned blackberry pie, and they’re all so delicious,” said Demonstration Garden coordinator Liz Kendler, who noted that the Bake-Off is a great way to help reduce the ecological impact of the tasty but destructive berry.
The Himalayan Blackberry was first introduced to North America from India via England in 1885, and quickly became a highly invasive species. Himalayan Blackberry vines spread rapidly, Kendler said, and can blanket vast areas. While the fruit is delicious, the plant itself takes over natural vegetation and threatens local biodiversity.
To raise awareness about the impact of the Himalayan Blackberry on the environment, and to enjoy its fruit, the Langley Demonstration Garden introduced the Blackberry Bake-Off in 2001.
To enter the Blackberry Bake-Off and receive a list of acceptable, food-safe ingredients, contact the Langley Demonstration Garden at demogarden@tol.bc or 604.532.3521.
On August 17, 221 Street will be closed between 48A and 49 Avenues between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. to accommodate the event. Residents will still be able to access all parking lots on 221 Street.