The Kansas City
GARDENER A Monthly Guide to Successful Gardening
July 2020
Groundcovers That Perform
Summer Bird Feeding Other Pollinators in the Butterfly Garden Professional Lawn Seeding Guide Experts say Gardening can be a Mood Booster
editor’s notes
The Kansas City
GARDENER
Frustration to gratitude
A Monthly Guide to Successful Gardening
Independently owned and operated since 1996 Publisher Michael Cavanaugh Editor Elizabeth Cavanaugh Contributors Nik and Theresa Hiremath Lenora Larson Creyton Ledbetter Dennis Patton Judy Penner Tamra Reall Ed Reese Chelsea Didde Rice Distribution Publishers Delivery Solutions, Inc.
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T
he month of July is at hand, and I have yet to plant anything new. How can that be? Usually by now I have exhausted the gardening budget for the year, and start wondering the importance of other budget categories. Like the car: Do we really need new tires? Home goods: I’ll replace our aging linens next year. How can it be that this gardener, who without fail remarks of improving garden beds with more (fill in the blank), has thus far not done so? Perhaps if I were more of a mailorder plant purchaser this point would be mute. In early, early spring when he needed to plant some color, Mr. Gardener did fill a few containers with pansies that he had purchased. He gets anxious in a must-plantnow kind of way. At the same time, he was growing coleus and zinnias from seed in the greenhouse. And when the outdoor temperatures were warm enough, those annuals completed the container planting plan. When I think back over the last few months, the reason I have not made any plant purchases is clear. The coronavirus gets all the credit. Because I am the compliant sort, the
stay-at-home orders kept me away from nurseries and garden centers. While staying away from my local garden center is not a habit I want to continue, it all makes sense to me now. The pansies put on a great show, and the mild temperatures with plenty of rain added to their longevity. Their bold color and bright faces moved me to smile each time I caught a glimpse. Whether at the front porch or on the back patio, pansies never hesitated. Baffling to Mr. and me was their survival rate and performance in spite of the diligent work of squirrels unearthing them every single day. They were relentless. Half of the plants would be laying on the ground, tattered and limp. We would replant every plant, every day. At least it seemed that way. And through it all the pansies prevailed. Well, most of them did. Now the little buggers are digging up the coleus and zinnias. Even if the container is empty, they are digging and slinging soil far
and wide. I wish they would find whatever they are looking for. We are not alone in our frustration. Countless gardeners from across the region have voiced their frustration, all looking for methods of prevention. We have heard plenty of ideas–from eggshells and coffee grounds to cats and pellet guns. Believe me, if I had the answer to this age-old problem, I would share it with you. If you have the answer, please share it with me. For now though, I’m redirecting my focus and energy to the rest of the garden. We have plenty of beautiful perennials with gorgeous blooms like oakleaf hydrangea and daylilies, and others known for their foliage like hosta and ferns. I might not buy anything new for the garden after all. I think I’ll simply admire and be grateful for all that I have. I’ll see you in the garden!
In this issue July 2020 • Vol. 24 No. 7 Powell Gardens Events ............. 4 Summer Bird Feeding ............... 6 Kids Ask Dr. Bug ...................... 8 Rose Report ............................ 9 Groundcovers that Perform ....... 10 Ask the Experts ........................ 12 Backyard Bird Watching .......... 13
about the cover ...
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Other Pollinators in Garden ...... 14 Kids, Gardens & Games .......... 15 Professional Seeding Guide ...... 16 Garden Calendar .................... 18 Gardening is a Mood Booster ... 19 Hotlines .................................. 19 Subscribe ................................ 19
Creeping Jenny is a groundcover that does not disappoint. Learn about more high-performing groundcovers beginning on page 10.
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Hunt Berries, Experience Butterflies Powell Gardens summer fun awaits
Species Spotlight: Hunt for Berry Treasure Saturday, July 18 | 10:30-11:30 a.m. Location: Powell Gardens, Byron Schutz Nature Trail and Education Pond Free with general admission | Admission is free for members Join a Powell Gardens docent for a hunt for berry treasure. This family-friendly hike features a short walk (.8 miles) through our forest to our lotus pond in search of blackberries and other woodland treasures. This experience is suited for families with kids ages five to twelve. Come prepared with bug spray and sunscreen. Space is limited, so please register online in advance. Register: http://25043p.blackbaudhosting.com/25043p/ tickets?tab=2&txobjid=36ffc857-253c-4319-9f62-2ee0907ddd56 Festival of Butterflies: Member Preview Thursday, July 23 | 6-9 p.m. Location: Powell Gardens Open to all Powell Gardens members Flit and flutter with our beloved butterflies during Festival of Butterflies! Join us for our members-only preview. Festival of Butterflies July 24 through August 9, 2020 | Tuesday-Sunday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Location: Powell Gardens Festival Admission Applies | Admission is free for members Experience the world of our favorite pollinator at the annual Festival of Butterflies at Powell Gardens. The vibrant colors of over a thousand free-flying butterflies and moths will populate our glass-walled conservatory, where a mesmerizing fountain pool will be surrounded with tropical
plants that are native to the natural habitats of these exotic pollinators. Witness metamorphosis from chrysalis to butterfly and cocoon to moth as each newly-winged wonder takes flight for the very first time. Next you are invited to embark on the outdoor trail that traces the northward migratory path of the monarch butterfly. Your journey begins in our Seed to Plate greenhouse, which will be transformed into a facsimile of the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve in Michoacán, Mexico, a World Heritage Site where monarch butterflies spend the winter months. Approximately 200 million butterflies cover the trees, creating a captivating landscape of fluttering wings. You will continue following the trail through stops that feature nectar and host plants from Texas, then Oklahoma, until you have reached the outdoor habitat where we raise native Missouri butterflies every year. On this magical migratory trip from the southern hemisphere and through Mexico to the Midwest, you will have opportunities to get up close and personal with many different species. Explore each butterfly’s origins, preferred habitats, and life-cycles while enjoying a variety of festival events in celebration of the summer season. After Hours Friday, July 24 | 6 p.m.-Sunset Location: Powell Gardens Free with festival admission | Admission is free for members We invite you to enjoy longer hours during our Festival of Butterflies, listen to music, treat yourself to snacks and a seasonal festival cocktail, and take in the sunset views in the gardens to celebrate the peak of the summer season. Play with Plants: Pollinators Saturday, July 25 | 1-4 p.m. Location: Powell Gardens, Visitor Center Free with festival admission | Admission is free for members Drop in to view and gently handle caterpillars and butterflies in the native butterfly house. Bring the camera for this great photo opportunity!
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Summer Bird Feeding
O
ne of the most frequent questions during this time of year is if we should feed the birds during the summer. The short answer is yes. However, there are others who argue not to feed. Let us explore some of these underlying reasons and counterpoints to them. A primary argument for not feeding in the summer is that there is an abundance of naturally occurring food sources. While that is true, as a rule, we cannot underestimate the impact we have had on the food sources of birds as we continue with suburban development, thus reducing the areas available for natural food sources. Additionally, the use of pesticides kills a great deal of insects, or secondarily can cause harm or death to
birds which eat the tainted insects, is another reason to provide supplemental food sources in your backyard. Studies have shown that birds with access to supplemental food sources from feeders are healthier and spend less energy foraging to feed themselves and their babies. This leads to a greater probability of survival of the babies and an overall increase in health and vitality of the flock. Some argue that providing backyard feeders might inhibit baby birds from learning to forage for their naturally occurring food sources. While there is no evidence of this, there are studies which have shown that backyard feeders are only a supplemental 15 to 20 % of the food source for adult birds. Additionally, with the point above
Let’s Look Forward! Summer looks bright at Powell Gardens.
of diminishing insect sources, feeding high fat foods such as suet or mealworms can be helpful both to the babies and the parents. One of the cited reasons to not feed is that the birds become habituated on our backyard feeders and this will alter their migratory behavior. While this seems intuitive to us that birds would want to stay in a place with available food, studies have shown this is not the case. While the underlying science and physiology of migration triggers are not fully known, the best hypothesis are they are linked to things such as length of day or physiological changes within the birds. Furthermore, migration is a very nutritionally taxing effort and accordingly requires adequate fat stores to make the migration to wintering grounds. For example, a hummingbird will add 25 to 40% of its body weight before making its migration. Having access to additional food sources beyond those in nature can help birds to build these reserves. An undebated reason to feed in the summer is to try and attract birds which migrate to our area only during the summer. Just like we have Dark-eyed Juncos only during the winter months, there are certain birds we only have during the summer months. Probably some the better known of these include Hummingbirds and
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Orioles, but there are also Rosebreasted Grosbeaks and Summer Tanagers. As with any hobby, we should do what brings us joy. There is no right or wrong answer for feeding the birds in the summer. But for me, I like to see the birds throughout the seasons and watch their varied behaviors. Additionally, summer is a great time to see the behaviors associated with raising the young, watching fledglings grow into juveniles and first year adults all at the viewing convenience of the feeders in my backyard. Nik and Theresa Hiremath own and operate Wild Birds Unlimited of Leawood at 11711 Roe Avenue, Leawood, Kansas. Contact them at 913-491-4887.
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The adult male summer tanager is entirely rosy red, slightly darker on wings and tail.
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Kids Ask Dr. Bug How many insects are in my backyard? Noah, 9 This spring, I spent a lot of time looking for the different kinds of insects outside my door. I found ants, beetles, flies, moths and butterflies, termites, wasps, bees, dragonflies, springtails, stink bugs, and so many species within each of those groups. If I tried to count all of them, I wouldn’t have been able to because there were probably millions. I also found many non-insects: centipedes, spiders, millipedes, roly polys, and worms. These insects are on flowers, on leaves, flying through the air, under the ground and under the mulch. If it makes you itchy just thinking about how many critters are all around you, keep in mind that a healthy environment has a great diversity of organisms. These crit-
ters benefit us in many ways, as well as being fascinating to watch and learn from. How many insects can you recognize in your backyard? What’s the difference between a bee and a wasp? Mason, 10 Bees and wasps are similar because they are related, but they have some distinct differences. Bees are vegetarians and wasps are predators, although many wasps also feed on nectar from flowers. While wasps are often smooth, bees are usually hairy which helps them collect and spread lots of pollen from all the flowers they visit. How do lightning bugs glow? Mia, 12 Lightning bugs, also known as fireflies, are neither true bugs nor flies. They are beetles! These enchanting insects light up summer
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Follow-up question: Why do lightning bugs blink? Mia, 12 Sometimes these beetles flash to warn potential predators that they taste bad. Usually, though, adult beetles flash their light in specific patterns to find their mate. Male lightning beetles of different species fly around and flash the pattern for their species. When a female likes the flashing pattern she sees, she flashes back from her tree or shrub and the male flies to her. The eggs are later laid in the soil and may also glow, just a little bit! If my dog eats a lightning bug, will he start to glow? Gavian, 12 No. Your dog’s tongue might
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evenings with a chemical reaction, called bioluminescence. Special chemicals in these insects combine with oxygen and light is produced. This greenish-yellow light is the most efficient light in the world – all light and no heat. These beetles don’t fly very fast and you can catch them to get a closer look. Some kids even collect them and put the beetles in a jar with air holes for a natural lamp. Remember, though, if you do this to be a good steward and set them free!
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Home to more than plants, kids ask DR. TAMRA REALL about the curious things found in the garden.
Lightning beetle resting on a flower. glow for a few seconds if the beetle gets squished, but it will fade quickly. There are other animals that glow, though! Some sea anemones, lanternfish, crystal jellyfish, and even some mushrooms and bacteria are bioluminescent. Even more interestingly, the chemicals that cause the reaction in lightning beetles, luciferin and luciferase, are used in scientific research to learn how cells and genes work. We can learn so much from nature! Dr. Tamra Reall (@MUExtBugN Garden) is the new horticulture specialist for MU Extension in Jackson County. For free, research-based gardening tips, call 816-833-TREE (8733), email mggkc.hotline@gmail.com, or visit www.extension2.missouri.edu.
Rose Report Expert rosarian, JUDY PENNER talks about rose plant care in July at Loose Park Rose Garden.
D
ue to circumstances around the corona virus, I have been busier than usual this spring. Half of my staff were unable to be at work from April 1st to June 1st . Along with one other person, I maintained the rose garden during that time. Sadly I missed the deadline for a June “Rose Report,” but I am glad to announce that the roses are doing well and have made their first appearance starting May 25th and were really showing off the week of June 1st with lots of buds just waiting to burst open. The first flush of bloom is always so rewarding and beautiful. During July, hot humid weather creates perfect conditions for disease and many hostile insects to invade the garden, putting the rose gardener to the test. The old adage “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” is the best advice for rose growers seeking quality plants. A rose grower who prevents disease and insects by applying the right material, at the right time, at the right interval is going to produce quality blooms throughout the growing season. There are many insecticides and fungicides available that allow rose growers to spray at longer intervals between applica-
tions making spraying a bit easier and less time consuming. Here are some of the rules you should keep in mind when spraying. Apply insecticides only when insects are present. Research insecticides so that you get the best product for your specific problem. Always water the bed the day before spraying. If you can spray the roses after a good rain that is even better. You don’t want the rose beds to be dry or you may get burn from the chemical spray. Keeping your roses hydrated for spraying is critical. Spray in the early morning or the evening. I prefer the early
morning so the rose leaves are able to dry before night fall and the bee activity is lower. Spraying in the middle of the day could cause some burn so best to avoid middle of the day sun and heat. Not to mention it can be hard on a gardener. Chemicals work better when a spreader sticker is mixed in the spray tank. I use Indicate 5 with great success. Testing has proven that pesticides and fungicides are more effective and last longer when mixed and sprayed in a 4.5-5.5 pH solution. Indicate 5 will turn the water a light pink color when the correct amount has been added for the ideal pH so no need for pH strips.
Invest in a good sprayer. If you only have a handful of roses a small pump up sprayer may be all you need. If you have 25 or more rose plants in your garden, you may want to invest in a battery-powered sprayer. I would also suggest spot spraying roses that are having problems with disease or insects. You could use a small pump up sprayer to treat only the troubled roses. Of course, always read all label directions on the bottles. Do not add more product then recommended. This will cost you more money and be less effective. Follow the safety requirements on the label, most require long sleeves and long pants, gloves, a mask and eye protection. If you have a large number of roses you may want to invest in a respirator since you will be exposed to the chemical for a longer period. Remember chemicals are most toxic when you are mixing the concentrated chemical into the sprayer. Stay Safe. Remember to Stop and Smell the Roses. Judy Penner is Expert Rosarian at Loose Park, Kansas City, Mo. You may reach her at judy.penner@ kcmo.org.
waterone.org/smartwatering The Kansas City Gardener | July 2020
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Groundcovers That Perform CHELSEA DIDDE RICE explains the benefits of using groundcover and shares six favorite perennial options.
W
hile groundcover may be an afterthought in many landscapes, I believe it’s an important player in completing most any landscape bed. First of all, groundcover covers the ground (obviously), retaining moisture around the base of larger plants, allowing for less frequent watering. It also provides other benefits similar to traditional mulch, including blocking weed seeds’ access to bare soil which prevents them from germinating. Unlike traditional wood mulch or similar products, you don’t have to purchase and reapply annually or every few years. Finally, it provides another foliage element to use creatively when planning the colors and textures in your garden. All in all, I use groundcover for the functional benefits just as much as the ornamental ones. Now, let’s discuss logistics. Many groundcover plants are sold in six packs or small containers, which make them easy to plant. When planting groundcover, check the tag or ask one of the professionals at your local garden center how far apart to plant each variety. Space them out on top of the soil equidistant from each other, then plant. The idea behind using multiple small plants is that they’ll spread to meet each other and form a continuous mat of foliage. There are countless options for groundcover, but here are a few favorite perennial options that succeed in our Kansas City area. Sedum The thick, drought-resistant, succulent leaves of sedums make them among the very best evergreen groundcovers for full sun areas. While there are hundreds of varieties, look for low-growing cultivars when using this plant as a groundcover. Several popular varieties include Angelina, Dragon’s Blood and Blue Spruce. In our 10
July 2020 | kcgmag.com
area, many groundcover sedums are semi-evergreen, bringing interest to the winter landscape with their vibrant color. Ajuga Mentioned as a favorite groundcover in my April article, Top Perennials for Shade Gardens, ajuga also does well in part to full sun, when given sufficient water. Upright bloom stalks about six inches tall appear in late spring, adding seasonal interest. The plant comes in a variety of green hues, including some variegated and chocolate-green colored cultivars, like the appropriately named Chocolate Chip Ajuga.
Creeping Jenny Suited for sun or shade, creeping jenny has round, chartreuse foliage dotted on long, reaching stems with occasional bright yellow flowers. The low-growing foliage turns gold and bronze in late fall and it loses its leaves during the winter, only to spring back to life when temperatures start to rise. It is important to note that creeping jenny can spread quickly and become invasive if not maintained, especially if it’s getting plenty of water and sun. However, if and when this vigorous groundcover spreads out of bounds, it responds well to frequent trimmings.
Vinca Minor One of the most popular and widely used groundcovers (especially in commercial settings), vinca minor is a vining plant with thin stems and star-shaped flowers that are typically periwinkle blue. It is tough as nails, but easily becomes invasive when not pruned. Japanese Pachysandra Best to grow in full or part shade, Japanese pachysandra is a tough groundcover that is both deer and rabbit resistant. Its shiny green leaves will complement nearby shade plants and since it’s drought resistant once established, it’s a great choice for those tough areas with dry shade. Lamium A member of the mint family (Lamiaceae), lamium isn’t immediately related to the invasive yet refreshing varieties of mint that we muddle into our summer mojitos. However, its square stem, oppositely positioned leaves, vigorous performance and tendency to spread hint to their familial connection. Lamium is a delightful choice for those who enjoy silvery leaf colors and interesting patterns which pop in shady areas. Most lamium varieties have small flowers that bloom briefly in late spring to early summer. If you used your extra time spent at home over the past few months to renovate or create a new landscape bed, consider how a groundcover plant might complete the design and provide benefits like water conservation and weed prevention. There are countless varieties, but these six options are fantastic selections.
Vinca Minor
When Chelsea Didde Rice isn’t at work as a senior communications specialist, she’s an avid gardener who enjoys teaching people how easy it can be to garden.
Sedum Blue Spruce
Sedum Angelina
Vinca Minor
Creeping Jenny
Ajuga
Japanese Pachysandra
Lamium Purple Dragon The Kansas City Gardener | July 2020
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Ask the Experts Gardeners have plenty of questions about soil and plant issues, DENNIS PATTON answers a few of them here.
T
his month’s question-andanswer section has a single focus. By far, the most common questions lately are about various weeds and their control. The weather patterns for 2019 and early 2020 have proven to be excellent for weeds.
THE COLOR OF DANDELIONS Question: My lawn was a sea of yellow this spring with dandelions. How can I get them under control? Answer: Dandelions are a perennial forb and new seedlings germinate each fall. The plants overwinter in what is referred to as a rosette, or a tuft of green leaves. They begin to flower as the temperatures warm in the late winter. This is when people notice them on the lawn and think about treating.
Dandelions
Wild Violet
White Avens
Control is best achieved during the rosette stage in the fall, not in full spring flowering. Several products or combinations of these products are used for treatment. These include 2,4-D, Dicamba, MCPP and Carfentrazone. The most effective time for control is early November after seedlings have germinated. Liquid sprays provide a more thorough coverage and better control. Treat when temperatures are over
50 degrees and be patient as the plants slowly die out over winter.
stores the energy for a strong plant. Violets also reseed freely, adding to the difficulty. As a cool-season plant, they flower in the spring and then again in the fall. Spring treatments are less effective as the herbicides simply burn off the foliage, followed by new growth emerging from the rhizome. Fall treatments in October to early November tend to provide the best control. These perennial plants pull nutrients into the rhizomes converting to stored energy for next year’s growth. Fall treatments move the chemical deep into the rhizome, increasing your odds of elimination. Common herbicides used for other lawn weeds tend to be less effective. Products that contain the active ingredient Triclopyr are most effective and should be the product of choice if violets are the target.
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OH VIOLETS, TO LOVE OR NOT Question: Wild violets have seemed to take over. At first, they were only in the shady area of my flower garden, but now they are on the lawn. How can I rid my yard of the violets? Answer: While they are pretty with their shades of blue and purple flowers, violets can be an eyesore for many people. Some people who love violets and consider them a friendly visitor instead of a weed. Violets are also the host for Fritillary Butterflies. If you don’t fall into the embracing camp, then control may be necessary. Violets are a perennial and a challenging plant to control. They have a rhizome structure that
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WHITE AVENS, A STICKY SITUATION Question: My dog came in from the backyard covered in these small BB-sized seeds stuck in his fur. I found the plant and had it identified as White Avens. I have not heard of this plant. Can you tell me more? Answer: This weed is somewhat new to me. Interestingly, I learned about it in the same way. I had to cut mats of hair off my dog after he tangled with this nasty weed. White avens is a perennial, first noticed as a pretty ring of foli-
Poison Ivy age low to the ground looking like a well-behaved clump of coral belllike foliage. It sends up a flower stock, with different foliage terminating in an attractive white flower. Then, like Jeckel and Hyde, the seeds are set into a stick-tight, with a hook-like structure that grabs onto fur, gloves, and pants, just about anything to spread them far and wide. White avens tend to be randomly scattered in shady locations and open areas. Control is best achieved by chopping out the plant and destroying it before flowering.
Answer: Poison ivy is a perennial woody native plant and can be found in the Kansas City area in woodlands and wastelands. Unfortunately, it can find its way into our suburban garden as birds love to eat the berries, then deposit seeds all over. Since it is a woody plant with an extensive root system, it is difficult to control. This is compounded by the fact that all parts of the plant can cause an allergic reaction even when it is dead. Eliminating poison ivy is a process that depends on the maturity of the plant and where it is growing. Small seedlings can be pulled after a rain. A simple trick is to place your arm in a plastic bag, grab and yank, covering the small plant with the bag and then discard. Established plants require chemical control. Depending on the surrounding plants, there are options for chemicals. If it is growing amongst desirable plants, then spot treat it with glyphosate (Roundup® type products). You can target it directly on the ivy without harming your other plants. Glyphosate can give poor results and multiple applications are necessary. Poison ivy killers or brush control products containing Triclopyr are more effective on broadleaf woody plants. They will also damage nearby trees and shrubs. Keep in mind the dead material can still contain the irritant that causes a rash. Never burn poison ivy debris as the irritant can become airborne, even entering the lungs.
POISON IVY FOUND ME, NOW IT MUST GO Question: As I was cleaning up the garden, I came in contact with poison ivy. I didn’t even know it was there. What is the best way to rid the garden of this nasty plant?
Dennis Patton is the horticulture agent for Johnson County K-State Research and Extension. For free information fact sheets, visit www.johnson.ksu.edu, or call the Extension office at 913-715-7000.
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Backyard Birding ED REESE touts birdwatching, a hobby for the whole family.
B
ackyard birdwatching is a wonderful family hobby and pastime. It provides a venue that allows for sharing and learning about birds and their activities. Everyone in the family can participate in learning about birds. The hobby provides a great alternative to getting glued to a computer or television. With recent events, the hobby of birdwatching has taken off during the past few months. It is estimated this hobby has grown in nationwide participation 15-18%, coast to coast. It’s an easy hobby to start and to stay with. Backyard birding provides a high degree of flexibility, in regards to how much you need to invest to begin. A simple suet cage, coupled with either a seed cake, or suet cake and you’re in business. The hobby has few challenges to overcome.
I think the most frustrating challenge for hobbyists is investing in bird seed, only to find that birds won’t touch the purchased product. Sadly the reason is often due to the purchased birdseed having lost its viability by being at, or past its useful shelf life. When birdseed loses viability it becomes susceptible to fungus and molds that ward off birds. Shop with retailers that deal specifically with backyard birding, especially bird seed, as well as other supplies needed. These birding specialists are uniquely qualified in helping you get started in the hobby. Ed and Karen Reese own and operate Wild Bird House in Overland Park and Independence. Contact them at 913-341-0700.
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Other Pollinators in the Butterfly Garden
Photo by Lenora Larson.
Butterfly maven, LENORA LARSON, identifies other pollinators that will likely appear in the butterfly garden.
A Hover Fly has a plump hairy body, round eyes that meet on top of its head, little stubs instead of antennae and only one set of wings held to the side. And they hover!
W
hen you’ve planted to attract butterflies, you’ve also planted for bees, wasps and flies. I’ve learned to warn schools and other organizations planning a butterfly garden
to expect other pollinators, often to their dismay! Fortunately, these fears are misguided since nectaring insects are not aggressive and house flies have no interest in a garden. I’ve been asked “How can I
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Wasps: Pollinators and Beneficial Hunters Adult Wasps and Hornets also are gentle vegetarians who do not readily sting if disturbed while nectaring. I call myself the “wasp whisperer” because I can coax nectaring wasps onto my hand. Wasps are not only beneficial pollinators, they are also highly beneficial hunters of garden pests like caterpillars because their carnivorous larvae must have meat. Many have
The Truth about Bees Nectaring bees do not sting unless YOU distress them. They are totally focused on gathering pollen and nectar to feed their larvae. However, if you yell and wave your arms, you may frighten them and they may defend themselves against you, the screaming giant monster. We have over 400 spe-
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cies of hard-working native bees in Kansas that are peaceful and never sting unless you provoke them. Honey bees (non-native) and bumble bees are the only social bees in the U.S. and they will sting if you threaten their nest, which contains their mother, their sisters and their children. I would sting you too if you threatened my family.
stop bees from bothering my flowers?” What?!? Flowers actively invite bees and other pollinators to the garden. There are no flowers that only butterflies use and no poisons that kill bees but not butterflies. Any flower that is ignored by bees, like sterile hybrids, will not be visited by butterflies either. The reverse is not true. For instance, if you planted only lilies or sprayed bt poisons you will still have bees but no butterflies.
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Like all bees, this Bumble Bee has a plump furry body, almond shaped eyes on the side of its head and two sets of wings held above its body. specialized diets like the Cicada Killer Wasps. Or if you open a Mud Dauber’s nest, you’ll find it packed with paralyzed spiders to feed the larvae. Of course, social wasps like paper wasps do build nests and they will sting to defend their family. Flower Flies: Bee Look-alikes Common house flies are not pollinators. They do not visit flowers and have an entirely different mode of feeding so you may continue disliking them if you wish. However, Syrphid Flies AKA Flower Flies or Hover Flies, are the most numerous pollinators after bees as they too evolved to visit flowers. Many of the “bees” that you’ve seen are really flies that look and act like bees as a defense against hungry predators. Obviously, they have no stingers so they are completely harmless. However, their larvae are fierce hunters, carnivores that we consider beneficial insects because they eat aphids and other pests. The mother fly lays her eggs on pest-
infested plants then goes back to her vegan diet. Summary We Lepidopterists joke that butterflies can be like a gateway drug, opening the door to appreciating other insects. My suggestion: choose a sunny warm day to sit among your flowers and watch the pollinators up close. Get to know them. Did you know that honey bees have red tongues and lap nectar like a kitty-cat? Butterflies are relatively uncommon compared to the legions of other pollinators, so fearlessly enjoying bees, wasps and flies can greatly enhance your garden experience. Marais des Cygnes Extension Master Gardener, Idalia Butterfly Society and Kansas Native Plant Society member, Lenora Larson gardens and hosts butterflies in the cruel winds and clay soil of Paola, Kansas. She may be contacted at lenora.longlips@gmail.com.
ooking for some late summer projects and garden games for kids that are close to home and benefit the mind, body, and spirit? This garden projects offer children the opportunity to explore the natural world in a fun and informal setting. There are many lessons we can learn from flowers about patience, thoughtfulness and the beauty of biological diversity. Flower Juice Painting Materials Needed: • Colorful fresh flower blossoms and fragrant leaves • Absorbent paper • A good imagination Collect whole flower heads and herbs in the morning after the dew has dried. Salvia, marigold, calendula, larkspur, gera-
niums, and dianthus flowers all produce bright and vivid colors. Fragrant leaves from scented geraniums, sage, lavender, and mint create a lovely palette of green plant colors. A porous absorbent paper works best for this project. Use the flower blossoms collected that day the same way you would use small sponges or paintbrushes dipped in paint to add soft pastel colors to pencil drawings or create colorful, free-form paintings. When gathering the flowers and leaves from the garden, discuss the different insects that help pollinate these plants and how the color, shape, and patterns on flowers and leaves attract pollinators to a plant. Article and photo courtesy of National Garden Bureau.
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Professional Lawn Seeding Guide Turf manager, CREYTON LEDBETTER targets what to consider when planning for fall seeding.
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eeding is the quintessential step to any lush, thick, vibrant yard that can capture the attention of any passerby. There are many different aspects to consider when seeding your lawn and each topic should be thought through carefully. Seeding is an expensive project so preparation is important to giving your grass seed the highest chance of germination and providing young grass the best opportunities for maturing. Different facets to consider when seeding are the time of year, grass seed mixes, and type and pressure of noxious weeds. Even lawn elevation and drainage areas can make for challenging germination. Because of the many different components to a successful seed job it is good practice to spend some time during the summer for
mapping out the prep work, understanding of the process when actually seeding, and exploring issues to expect when germination occurs and leaves your yard full of immature, fragile blades of grass. Seeding Preparation Deciding whether a lawn needs grass seed is an important first step during the preparation phase. Large bare dirt areas in a yard are the typical candidates for grass seed, but there are three things you should consider before you move forward with your fall seeding plans. Does the lawn have high weed pressure? High weed pressure is indicative of a weak stand of grass and can usually benefit from a solid seed job. Clearing weeds are essential to a successful germination rate. It is difficult to germinate
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grass through crabgrass and clover patches and even more difficult to provide an ideal growing environment for immature grass. Possibly one of the best cultural practices to keeping a weed-free lawn area is preserving its lush, dense integrity. Does the lawn have undesirable turf contamination like Bermudagrass? Warm-season grasses like Bermuda or zoysia can quickly become a nuisance as they outperform many cool-season turf types during the summer and can leave a lawn looking spotty and non-uniform during the cold months. This is an issue that can take months to rectify as herbicide treatments need to begin during the
summer months to prepare a yard for fall seed. Does the lawn have nice grass uniformity, but lacks thickness? Keep in mind a mature fescue plant can grow out to six inches in length so sometimes, instead of more individual grass plants, a timely fertilizer program will rectify this issue. Seeding Planning Once lawn concerns have been diagnosed and seeding has been committed to, planning may begin for the seeding process. This generally involves three considerations. When to seed. Typically, fall seeding is the most favorable time to start seed projects due to the
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immense amount of cultural advantages one can experience during this time of year. For starters, fall climates in the Midwest are typically temperate with plenty of rain, supplying juvenile grass the necessary components to a healthy stand. Also, summer is not on our doorstep, allowing young grass to grow not only throughout the fall but also through the spring months of the following year. This means we can expect at least five months of solid growth and root maturity before hot temperatures. We usually start seeding as early as midAugust so it’s good to begin getting your seed plan in line now. Spring would be the next best time of year but essentially cuts the amount of growing time by half compared to fall seed jobs. Consider watering needs. A step that is not often considered, or simply underestimated is judging how much seed can be realistically taken on. Juvenile seedlings need copious amounts of water and for some homeowners, this can be a difficult prerequisite to meet. Obviously, for irrigation owners this can be a step that is essentially skipped but for everyone else dragging sprinklers around their yard, this can be an arduous, timeconsuming task. Homeowners should be mindful and honest with themselves about how much young grass they can keep watered and sustain. Seed is expensive, therefore going through all the prep work and money just for grass to germinate and die due to lack of water would be a major disappointment and ultimately, a waste of time. Choose a seed type. Finally, a grass seed type needs to be decided on. For the Midwest, tall fescue is the popular choice due to its drought tolerance, ability to grow
in a wet environment, cold and mild heat tolerance, and the fact that it stays vibrantly green for a large portion of the year. During hot summer months, fescue can struggle but this time frame is minute compared to the year in its entirety. Perennial ryegrass is also an optional mix in with fescue as this turf type germinates very quickly and can help hold soil in erosion susceptible areas. Seeding Procedure Once prep work has been done, a date has been set, and the scope of the project has been realized, it is time for an effective, efficient seed job. One of the biggest misconceptions about grass seed is that it can be thrown down anywhere and left to do its thing. In my experience, this approach is a waste of time. A successful seed job needs only slight touch-ups once grass matures. Therefore, for germination rates to be high, proper steps should be adhered to. Here is a good seeding checklist. Ground prep. Existing turf needs to be scalped down as low as possible and bagged. Water the planned seeding areas prior to applying seed. Verticut, aerate, or work the soil. Once seed has been applied some sort of mechanical action needs to take place. The soil needs to be “worked” so that seed is protected from washing away, and from drying out. Apply straw. Straw application is optional if the soil has been worked adequately, the dirt underneath the straw should still be visible. Water. Immediate watering is necessary or seed the day before a nice, even rain. Heavy downpours carry the risk of washing seed away. For the next three weeks spacing
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three separate watering sessions for ten minutes apiece dialing that back to one to two times a day until grass matures. No herbicides. Do not apply any herbicides during this critical time as grass can be damaged in this frail state. Enjoy. Turf can be considered mature enough for normal use after three to four mows. Mastering the Challenges of Your Newly-Seeded Lawn A newly seeded lawn will face unique challenges compared to other, more mature lawns. Turf is fragile and can potentially take up to two years before fully mature. During this period typical lawn challenges are only exacerbated including drought, heat, and disease tolerance. All these issues will typically need some sort of solution at some point in time. Be extra vigilant on watering during the hot summer months, when temperatures are mild water less often to encourage root growth. Consider the possibility of getting on some sort of turf disease control, young grass has not developed the same immunities as mature stands
of grass have and are vulnerable to typical turf diseases like brown patch and pythium. These diseases can have devastating effects on a lawn and should be expected with newly seeded lawns. Seeding projects can be a challenging task, often underestimated and expensive. Planning and effort are necessary for successful seed jobs and beautiful turf lawns. The end results can be attention-grabbing, as yards can take on dramatic appearance changes within a short amount of time. Taking time to consider the many facets of seeding can yield fantastic results and the best yard on the block. Creyton Ledbetter currently works as a Turf Manager for Ryan Lawn and Tree in the Lawrence, Kansas, area. He has an extensive background in turf maintenance, golf course maintenance and horticulture, with close to ten years in agriculture vocations. He began his turf professionalism as an Assistant Superintendent at Buffalo Ridge owned by Big Cedar. Creyton has a bachelor’s degree in agriculture business and horticulture.
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The Kansas City Gardener | July 2020
17
July
garden calendar n TURF
• Mow bluegrass and tall fescue at 3 to 3 1/2 inches. • Mow zoysia at 1 1/2 inches. • Fertilize zoysia to encourage summer growth with a high nitrogen fertilizer. • Let grass clippings fall to return nutrients to the soil. • Look for summer diseases such as brown patch; treat as needed. • Sharpen mower blades for a clean cut. • Replace lawn mower air filter and change lawn mower oil per owner’s manual. • Prepare to control perennial grassy weeds such as zoysia, fescue and nimblewill. • Take a soil test to prepare for fall lawn renovation. • Water deeply and less often for deep roots and a healthy lawn.
n FLOWERS
• Remove faded flowers from annuals to stimulate more buds for late summer color. • Deadhead perennials to prevent seeding and encourage plant growth. • Replenish mulch layers, 2 to 3 inches deep is ideal. • Cut fresh bouquets for enjoyment. • Lightly fertilize annuals monthly for best flowering. • Dig, divide and replant crowded irises. • Dig, divide and replant daylilies. • Fertilize roses for fall blossoms. • Fertilize and water container gardens.
• Complete the final pinching of chrysanthemum tips for bushier plants.
n TREES AND SHRUBS
• Water newly planted shrubs and young trees (planted within the last three to five years) during dry weather. • Keep plants mulched to conserve moisture and cool roots. • Remove sucker growth from the base of trees and along branches. • Prune diseased, dead or hazardous limbs.
n VEGETABLES AND FRUITS
• Harvest fruits of your labor and enjoy. • Control weeds growth to preserve water and nutrients. • Fertilize vegetables to encourage plant development. • Watch for foliar disease development on lower tomato leaves and treat with a fungicide. • Prepare for fall gardening. Plant potatoes, broccoli and other fall crops. • Spray sweet corn to control corn earworms as silks emerge. • Be on the lookout for pests in the garden and control. • Remove old raspberry canes’ after harvest.
n MISCELLANEOUS
• Keep compost pile moist for fast processing and turn occasionally. • Take photographs of the garden to document success and for future planning.
Johnson County K-State Research and Extension recommends environmentally-friendly gardening practices. This starts by identifying and monitoring problems. Cultural practices and controls are the best approach for a healthy garden. If needed, use physical, biological or chemical controls. Always consider the least toxic approach first. Dennis Patton is the horticulture agent for Johnson County K-State Research and Extension. For free information fact sheets, visit www.johnson.ksu.edu, or call the Extension office at 913-715-7000. EST.2007
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K-State experts say gardening can be mood booster
A
s an academic, Cheryl Boyer is familiar with the growing body of research that suggests gardening is a boost to the body and mind. But as a gardener herself, it’s just plain fun. “Taking on a gardening project,” said Boyer, K-State Research and Extension state leader for horticulture and natural resources, “gives people the opportunity to get outside, work with their hands, and get away from the computer, social media and the news … maybe listen to some music and get out of their heads for a while.” It’s perhaps too early to know for sure, but the global pandemic seems to have led to an increased interest in gardening across the country. In Kansas, Boyer and several of her colleagues statewide recently launched an online series called the K-State Garden Hour, which airs each Wednesday from noon to 1 p.m. In its first week, the program had more than 400 participants tune in to a talk on planting native flowers in the backyard. Then, in
just the second week, nearly 1,000 people registered for a lesson on growing tomatoes. “The feedback we have received has been very positive,” Boyer said. “I think people stuck at home right now are finding a lot of value in the educational information we offer through K-State Research and Extension, particularly as it helps them be more successful in the garden and understand our natural world better. It’s been very rewarding to help people find our excellent resources. “You know, I think people who garden discover the universal joys of working with their hands and seeing the results of their work grow and thrive.” In the last 10 years, research has supported Americans’ interest in gardening, and the health benefits that come from it.
Hotlines for Gardeners Extension Master Gardeners are ready to answer your gardening questions.
CASS COUNTY
816-380-8494; Wed, 9am-noon
DOUGLAS COUNTY
785-843-7058; mastergardener@douglas-county.com; Mon-Fri, 1-4pm
GREATER KANSAS CITY MISSOURI AREA
816-833-8733 (TREE); Mon-Fri, 9am-noon; mggkc.hotline@gmail.com
JOHNSON COUNTY, KS
913-715-7050; Mon-Fri, 9am-4pm; garden.help@jocogov.org
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660-747-3193; Wed, 9am-noon
Beginning in 2011, Texas A&M researchers Charlie Hall and Madeline Dickson published three reviews in the Journal of Environmental Horticulture to outline the benefits associated with gardening. They reported such physiological health benefits as better sleep; lower incidence of diabetes, cardiovascular disease, obesity and allergies; enhanced immunity; increased physical activity; and positive cognitive development. In a subsequent review, they reported such social benefits as increased attachment to place and community; reduced community crime; improved access to healthy and affordable food; and improved school performance in children. Related to mental health, Boyer noted other researchers’ studies in
th ly G ui de to Su A Mon thly cc es Guid e to Suc October 2014 sf ul cess ful Gard Garde ning G ar de enin g to Succe ssful August 2015 ni ng A Mont hly Guide
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July
2015
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d the W ate Butterflies and Bee s Love These rlilies Spooky Plants
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Article courtesy of Pat Melgares, K-State Research and Extension, 785-532-1160, melgares@ksu.edu.
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which home gardeners “describe a sense of vitality obtained from being outdoors in natural settings, which gives energy to purposeful action by adults.” “Combined with better sleep and all the other benefits listed, gardening is a natural stress management technique that contributes to mood boosting,” she said. Boyer noted that gardening is for anyone, experienced or not. In Kansas, the Extension Master Gardeners volunteer program is a good in-road to learning, she said. “I think Extension Master Gardeners is the best example of a program that directly addresses the combination of promoting gardening and mental health benefits,” she said. “Most participants in the program join for the education and social interaction, then later experience all of the other benefits as they grow in their horticultural efforts.”
Please enclose your check payable to The Kansas City Gardener and mail with this form to: P.O. Box 8725, Prairie Village, KS 66208 The Kansas City Gardener is published monthly Jan. through Dec.
The Kansas City Gardener | July 2020
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