mahoney’s spring
i n s p i r at i o n s ou r e a rly s pr i ng issu e !
fruit tre e s, cool-we athe r plants & MORE!
plus: c ook ing w i t h ea r ly s eas o n veg g i es
a guide to seed starting for any skill level
an d a l o o k at o u r fav orite pl a n ters
knowledge, passion, experience. Family owned and operated for over 50 years, we believe our employees have become our best product. When you visit any Mahoney’s Garden Center, we’re here to help guide you every step of the way. We test and trial all of our products ourselves, so we can offer the most authentic growing advice, design tips, and education around. We welcome you into any of our 8 locations to meet our great team and to get the advice you need to succeed in the garden.
MAHONEYSGARDEN.COM | 2
h a p py s p r i n g
from our family to yours Even though our mild winter was no substitute for the warm, sunny days ahead — it certainly makes the transition into Spring a little easier! We’re so excited to share our favorite plants and garden products for the season and hopefully inspire the gardener in everyone. Be sure to read about how we’re thinking differently about the approach to lawn care on page 18. Visit page 4 to learn a little about growing fruit trees and shrubs, and head over to page 14 to see how Uncle Mike Mahoney fared while cooking with a professional Chef and his favorite cold-crop veggies! Plus, find some of our favorite products for early Spring on page 32. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned horticulturist, we’re committed to bringing you the best products, knowledge and experience to help you succeed in the garden.
the Mahoney family + staff
sign up online mahoneysgarden .com /rewards Membership has it’s benefits! Mahoney’s Rewards is a free club where you’ll earn points whenever you shop. For every dollar you spend at Mahoney’s, you’ll earn a point. Collect 250 points and you’ve earned a $5 Reward that can be used toward any future purchase. You’ll also receive access to exclusive sales, special offers and discounts, plus members-only professional gardening tips, blog posts, videos and inspiration!
brighton
osterville
449 Western Ave (617) 787-8885
2929 Fal mouth Road (508) 420- 4428
chelmsford
tewksbury
valuable are the bonus offers, extra discounts and
155 Princet on St reet (978) 251-4001
1609 M ain Stree t (978) 851- 2712
private invitations that we email only to Rewards
Earning Reward Points is fun, but even more
Members. We have lots of specials, sales and
concord
way l a n d
events planned for the coming year. We hope
1625 Sudbury Road (978) 371-1214
115 Bost on Post Road (508) 358- 7333
you’ll join us! We promise we’ll never share your
e a s t fa l m o u t h
winchester
with anyone. If you ever decide you don’t want the
958 East Falmouth Hwy (508) 548-4842
242 Cambridge Street (781) 729- 5900
Rewards emails you may opt out of the email list
| mahoneysgarden.com |
email address, telephone number or information
and still earn your Points. You must be at least 13 years of age to sign up for your own card. Mahoney’s reserves the right
A word about our 8 stores and in ven tory Each Mahoney’s location is unique with their own personality, character and product offering. Because of this, not all stores have identical breadth and depth of selection. If you see something specific in this magazine you wish to purchase, please call the store you wish to visit before making the trip.
to make future updates and modifications to the Rewards Club. Some exclusions may apply. Points may not be redeemed for cash, and cannot be used to pay sales tax. Points may not be shared with other Reward Members.
© 2016 by Mahoney’s Garden Center. All rights reserved. Content in this magazine may not be reproduced, duplicated or distributed without written permission from Mahoney’s Garden Center. MAHONEYSGARDEN.COM | 3
e dib les
PRETTY TASTY gro w yo u r o w n e y e - ca t ch i n g e d i b l e s
Do you enjoy fresh apples, blueberries and pears? Would you like to look out your window and see a picturesque flowering tree or shrub? What if you could have both: a gorgeous tree or shrub that produces delicious fresh fruit? Whether you grow for beautiful early spring flowers or delicious edibles, fruit-bearing trees add stunning beauty and a personal sense of well-being to your home.
MAHONEYSGARDEN.COM | 4
e d ible s
1. FRUIT TREES Fruit trees can be your garden’s most rewarding landscape plant. With the most stunning early Spring blossoms and tasty fruit later in the season, there’s no wonder why they invoke such a sense of enjoyment year after year. Note: All fruit trees require full-sun (at least 6 hours per day) and well-draining soil. So what about pollinating? Pollination occurs when pollen is moved within flowers or carried from flower to flower by pollinating animals such as birds, bees, bats, butterflies, moths, beetles, or other animals, or by the wind. Many people shy away from planting fruit trees because of the rules of pollination. Let us help demystify the process! Fruit results from the pollination of blossoms. Some trees can set an abundant crop with their own pollen, so they are called self-pollinating. Other trees need pollen from another variety. This cross-pollination is usually done by bees. Some neighborhoods have enough fruit trees to assure plenty of cross-pollination, but you should plant your own “pollination partners” just to be sure. If a variety is not self-pollinating, two trees of the same variety will not cross-pollinate each other. Generally speaking, most apples, pears, plums and sweet cherries require a pollinator, although there are a few self-pollinating varieties in each of those fruit types. Peaches, nectarines, tart cherries and apricots are almost always self-pollinating. To make things easy, all of our fruit trees are tagged with detailed guidance on appropriate pollinators for your apples, pears, plums and sweet cherries. The most important thing to remember? Apples can’t pollinate pears, and pears can’t pollinate plums. Pollinators must be from the same fruit type – cats and dogs don’t breed! We carry dwarf to semi-dwarf varieties that will mature to 12-15’ in height. The compact size allows for planting a single tree in a small back yard, or an entire home orchard to beautify your landscape and provide healthy snacks for the whole family! Each produces full-sized fruit that is easy to harvest.
APPLES With delicate white pink-blush blossoms, red, green or golden apples, fall foliage, and a classic winter tree shape, apple trees are gorgeous all year
long. With a few exceptions, most apple varieties require another variety for pollination. Generally, all you need to worry about is the overlapping of bloom times. If both apples are in bloom at about the same time, then the bees can do their job carrying pollen from one to the other. Early bloomers and mid-season bloomers work fine with each other. And late season bloomers also work fine with mid-season bloomers. But don’t count of early season bloomers and late season bloomers to pollinate each other – most years, they will not be in bloom at the same time. And, of course, planting three varieties - early, mid, and late - will cover all of the bases.
pears Pears fall into two basic types: European and Asian. They can pollinate across these two types, but the fruit itself is quite different. European pears are generally “pear” shaped, while Asian pears are usually round, like an apple. Sometimes Asian pears are referred to as “apple pears” but their taste is very different from an apple. Asian pears are extremely juicy and almost effervescent to the taste.
SWEET & TART CHERRIES Most sweet cherries require pollination by another sweet cherry to produce fruit. Black Gold, Hartland and Whitegold are self-pollinating – but the yield of each of those will improve if you plant a pollinator. Almost any combination of two sweet cherries will do the trick. All tart varieties are self-pollinating and do not need another cherry to pollinate.
plums Generally, Japanese plums need to be pollinated by Japanese plums and European plums need European pollinating partners. This is because the Japanese plums bloom very early and are almost always finished well before the European plums start to bloom. So the pollen from one type is simply not available at the right time to pollinate the other type.
peaches, nectarines & APRICOTS Peaches, nectarines, and apricots are really simple in terms of pollination. They are all self-pollinating. None of them need another variety to pollinate. MAHONEYSGARDEN.COM | 5
e dib les
2. Espa l i e r e d F rui t Tr ees Espalier is the ancient practice of training a tree or shrub to grow in an artistic flat design against a wall or fence. Don’t have a wall? You can plant a free-standing espalier-trellis to create a private garden or hide your neighbor’s unsightly driveway. They’re easy to care for with just a little seasonal pruning, and because they’re flat against a wall, espalier-grown trees are ideal for small space gardens. Sculptural all year long, they are especially lovely in spring when in flower. And if you select a sunny location, the wall will reflect and retain heat helping your tree produce a lot of fruit in a little area. We have espaliered apples, pears, and
Clockwis e f rom top : Es p a lie r Ap p le Tre e , Blu e b e rrie s , a n d ‘Blu s h in g D e lig h t’ Urb an Ap p le Tre e .
Asian pears with multiple varieties grafted on a single plant, so each tree is self-pollinating.
3. Urba n A ppl e s ® Perfect for small space gardening. For those who don’t have the room for large fruit trees in the yard, an exciting new introduction allows you to grow lots of truly delicious apples in a tiny space: Urban Apples®. With a max height of only 10 ft. and a slender shape of only 2 ft. wide, it’s easy to find a spot in any sunny landscape. No garden? No problem – you can grow these in a large container on a patio or balcony. Want instant gratification? When grown in full sun you’ll enjoy full-sized fruit the first year from planting! Easy-to-grow and disease-resistant,
4 . BlueBE RRIES
It’s important to water thoroughly, with a
One of our favorite edibles, there are so many
deep soaking especially as the plant gets
reasons to plant blueberries. Easy to grow
established. Most blueberry shrubs are “self-
and prolific, you can harvest the first year
fruitful”, but all will produce more and better
you plant! Blueberries are really lovely, with
tasting fruit if cross-pollinated with a different
delicate white flowers in the spring, gorgeous
variety. They do not require a lot of space – in
foliage in the fall, and colorful branches in the
fact you can grow them in containers on the
Blushing Delight Re d d i s h g reen , s w eetest o f the gr o up
winter. Depending on the variety you choose,
deck or patio! Just be sure to plant the two
blueberries can be used many ways in the
within 50 feet of one another so the bees can
T a n g y Gr e e n L i m e g reen, t a rt and c r i sp
landscape. Try them as hardy ground cover, a
carry the pollen.
plant 2 or more varieties for cross pollination, or plant a row of 5 or more to make a lovely living privacy screen, complete with lovely pink blush flowers in spring. Look for:
Ta st y R e d B ri g h t red , s w e et and jui c y
MAHONEYSGARDEN.COM | 6
low border, or a tall hedge for privacy. Don’t forget, growing blueberries with children Just plant them in full sun to light shade
is a fun and exciting experience. Kids love to
with moist, acidic soil. Be sure to enrich your
pick the fruit and enjoy the birds, pollinators
soil with plenty of compost for tastier fruit!
and butterflies that blueberries attract!
e d ible s
more fruit if they can cross-pollinate with a different Blueberry variety. 1½-2 ft. B l u e b e rr y J e l l y B e a n t m The smallest of the BrazelBerry line, these dwarf blueberry shrubs can be grown in a container, or in a row to create a handsome low border. Unique red-tinged leaves and pretty spring flowers; then in midsummer they produce large sweet berries that taste like blueberry jam. 1-2 ft. b l u e b e rr y g l a z e t m With glossy deep green foliage you might mistake this handsome shrub for a boxwood, but come summer, they push out almost blue-black fruit that taste like wild blueberries. With pinkish-white bell-shaped flowers in spring, and deep burgundy foliage in fall, Blueberry Glaze makes a lovely low hedge, or a compact shrub in a container. 2-3’ b l u e b e rr y p i n k i c i n g t m The largest in the collection, Pink Icing is stunning – featuring white flowers, and pink and blue-green foliage in the spring, the leaves turn to an iridescent shade of bluegreen in the fall. Plus they are prolific fruit bearers – equally handsome in a garden or large patio pot. 3-4 ft.
Blu e b e rry Pe ach S orb e t™ Bottom: Ras p b e rry S h ortca ke ™
5. Br az e l B e rr i es ® Innovative breeding has produced this new collection of prolific, delicious, ornamental berry plants. Easy-to-grow in either the garden or a container, anyone can grow these plants no matter how much (or little) room they have. With beautiful foliage for an ornamental display, place Brazelberries into patio pots to create a stunning space for any event- from informal snacking with kids to offering living appetizers at a summer garden party. Plus, they attract pollinators too! Look for these great varieties at Mahoney’s. Please note, selection varies by store, so please call ahead.
r a s p b e rr y s h o rt c a k e t m This dwarf, thorn-free raspberry produces lots of tasty midsummer fruit in just a little bit of space. This easy care, compact shrub is perfect for containers. Kids love them! 2-3 ft. b l u e b e rr y p e a c h S o r b e t t m Every spring this compact blueberry displays peach, pink, orange, and emerald foliage along with white, bell-shaped flowers. In summer you’ll enjoy a delicious crop of sweet blueberries, followed by deep purple foliage in the fall. Grow as a hedge or in decorative containers on the patio. Self-pollinating, but they yield
MAHONEYSGARDEN.COM | 7
6. GRAPES Don’t have your own Bordeaux vineyard? C’est bon – you can still grow your own grapes and enjoy their lush foliage, delicious fruit, fall color and rustic twisted trunks. Whether you choose an eating-cooking variety or one for wine making, grapevines need a sturdy support: fences, walls, trellises, arbors and pergolas are all good options. Year after year grapevines become more attractive year-round, and can provide good screening or shade around the home. This year look for these varieties: e d e lw e i s s T h es e u n i qu e l a rg e wh i te g ra p e s are s uit a b le f o r t a b le g ra p e a n d j a m s , a n d c a n a l s o b e use d t o ma ke wine . An ea rl y -s e a s o n h a rv es t, th e y ’ re d i s e a se -re s ist a nt , a nd c a n t o l e ra t e e x t re m e c o ld . Maréchal Foch Blue T h i s e a rl y ri p en i n g b l a c k g ra p e h a s d e lig ht f ul sma llis h b erri es . I t c a n b e m a d e i n to a v a rie t y o f wine s ra ng ing f ro m l i g h t a n d f ru i t y t o f ull-b o d ie d . N e p tu n e Gr e e n S e e d l e s s T h i s rel a ti v e l y n ew v a ri e t y p ro d u c e s b ig , j uic y, f la v o rf ul wh i t e g ra p es . I n c l a s s i c c o n i c a l c l ust e rs , t he y ma ke a n a t t ra c t i v e a d d i ti o n t o f ru i t b a s ke t s o r c e nt e rp ie c e s . D i s e a s e-re s i s ta n t . R i p en s i n e a rly Se p t e mb e r. Concord Blue Seedless A v e ry p o p u l a r e a t i n g a n d c o o king g ra p e wit h e a rly m i d s e a s o n h a rv es t. D el i c i o u s i n p ie s a nd p re se rv e s . mars blue seedless T h i s v e ry h a rd y, v i g o ro u s , d i s e a s e re sist a nt v ine is id e a l in h o t s u n ny a re a s . P ro d u c es a ro u n d b lue f ruit wit h s t ro ng f l a v o r i n l a t e J u n e. E x c el l e n t f l a v o r is s imila r t o Co nc o rd . Reliance Red Seedless Yo u wo u l d n ’ t t h i n k th a t a v i n e t h a t p ro d uc e s a v e ry t e nd e r, s we e t , p i n k g ra p e wo u l d a l s o b e o ne o f t he ha rd ie st . Mi d s ea s o n h a rv es t . C ay u g a W h i t e T h i s wi n e g ra p e h a s a d i s ti n c t re s e mb la nc e t o whit e R i e s l i n g . L a te h a rv es t, ex t re m el y vig o ro us a nd d is e a s e re s i s ta n t .
ev en m ore edi bles We also carry persimmon, fig, pawpaw, jujube, mulberry and multigrafted trees (multiple varieties on a single tree). We have these in limited quanities, and selection varies by location. Please shop early for best selection. Please call ahead if there is a specific edible you are wishing to buy. Plus some of the edibles listed above need specific planting care. Make sure you ask for planting guides, soil amendments, and tips on plant care. And as always, please make sure to provide plenty of water as soon as you transplant, and throughout the first year. MAHONEYSGARDEN.COM | 8
i n the g ar d e n
cool weathe r
blooms just because it’s officially spring, does not mean we are out of the woods with evening frosts. here are some cool weather favorites to color your outdoor spaces!
MAHONEYSGARDEN.COM | 9
i n t he g arden
When the first few days of warm spring weather hits, the urge to rush out and plant is strong. However, it is important to keep in mind what cool New England nights mean for your annual plants. Annuals are grown for their continuous blooms throughout the short spring and summer seasons. The challenge is those annuals are not hardy to New England winters, and do not come back each Spring season. Even though temperatures can jump to the 70s during the day, the threat of frost is still possible in Massachusetts usually until May. This is especially true for those who live outside of Route 128.
So, does this mean you have to wait until mid May to plant up your containers and garden beds? Not at all! In addition to the early-season staples (pansies, hellebores, violas and primroses) there many stunning annuals that perform well with the cool evening temperatures. These annuals are perfectly happy to withstand temperatures close to freezing. While these selections do need to be hardened off to survive, they will shine bright in your yard that is otherwise just waking up to the beauty of spring. The only thing you need to remember is to introduce your plants slowly to cool temperatures. As many of these
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
- our cold-tolerant favorites 1. Annual Phlox | 2. Dianthus | 3. Nemesia 4. Primrose | 5. Diascia | 6. Million Bells 7. Forget Me Nots | 8. Dusty Miller | 9. Osteospermum 10. Calendula | 11. Lobelia | 12. Snapdragons 13. Verbena | 14. Petunias | 15. Alyssum
MAHONEYSGARDEN.COM | 10
annuals have grown in the comfort of a warm and sunny greenhouse, try introducing them to a covered porch for a few days before planting.
to plant up your containers with cold-tolerant annuals, you may find the need to bring them indoors or into the garage on a cool night.
Remember, if the threat of frost is there, you’ll still need to cover with a simple frost cloth or bedsheet. Do not use plastic as it will do more damage to the plant. Water thoroughly. For those of you eager
We love our light-weight fiberclay pottery for this reason. With the look and durability of heavy stone, they are actually light enough to maneuver around the yard if necessary- unlike a heavy ceramic.
g ar d e n c ar e
the invasion of the
winter moth
Originally introduced to North America from Europe, winter moths, and the devastation they bring can be found throughout New England – especially in areas around Boston and Cape Cod. They seem to prefer apple, blueberry, cherry and crabapple fruit trees, but they also feed on oaks, maples and ash. There is no gentle way to say this; it’s a very serious problem.
how t h e b u gge r s o p er at e Adult moths emerge from soil around late November, and females lay eggs on tree trunks, house siding, and other outdoor surfaces through January. The eggs hatch before spring buds break. The young larvae (tiny inchworms caterpillars) tunnel into buds where they feed – often before the buds even open. After they eat up one bud, the larvae move to the next bud using wind and silk strands, called “ballooning”. The result is partial to significant defoliation. If a tree is defoliated 3 years in a row it’s at a high risk of death!
what yo u c an d o To date, there is no easy solution, nonetheless it’s critical that you do as much as possible or
your trees will be at risk. Here are ways you can combat the problem: In early spring (late March or up until the leaves start to open) spray All Seasons Horticultural Oil from Bonide. It’s an all-natural oil that helps prevent winter moth eggs from hatching. Warning: if you saw adult moths last December, DON’T WAIT to look for them this spring – the larvae do an awful amount of damage as they become visible. Once the leaves start to open, it’s too late for the Hort Oil – now it’s time to spray either Bonide’s all-natural Thuricide or all-natural Captain Jack’s Deadbug Brew. Both will kill winter moth caterpillars, but Capt. Jacks will kill even when they get big. Important notes: To help a defoliated tree or shrub survive the
summer, make sure to water deeply once a week. Also, even though all three Bonide products are all-natural, you’ll still want to avoid wet contact with bees. If any tree or shrub attracts bees, do not spray when it is in flower. Any other time of year, even if not in flower, minimize contact with bees by spraying either very early in the morning or after sunset – you want time for sprays to dry while bees are not active.
To learn more about these three solutions please visit: www.bonide.com
MAHONEYSGARDEN.COM | 11
g ar d e n c ar e
We’ve known the Espoma Company, and sold
however, that Espoma’s history has been
their natural and organic products for almost
rooted in organics since day one.
as long as we’ve been in business. We think there’s something to be said about a fertilizer
Espoma’s story starts in 1929 when H.G
company that committed themselves to being
Sanders of Millville, NJ, created a plant food
so exclusively organic — long before being
product made of a blend of local natural and
“organic” was even in style.
organic ingredients. Even though synthetics were beginning to grow more popular,
an organic history
espoma MAHONEYSGARDEN.COM | 12
If you’re not familiar with the name Espoma,
Sanders insisted on natural and organic
you’ll probably recognize Holly-tone or Plant-
because he was passionate that they were
tone, just two of the many “Tone” products
far superior. Vegetables were tastier, flowers
that are considered by professionals and
bloomed bigger and longer. He called his
hobbyists alike as the premium collection
debut product “Espoma Organic.” With no
of organic plant foods. Many do not realize,
frills or flashy marketing, Espoma Organic
g ar d e n c ar e
was made the old fashioned way. Hard-working laborers would shovel the blend into burlap bags and hand load 100lb sacks onto the trucks for sales trips. Interestingly enough, the first buyers were not the average homeowner. Sanders would then drive from New York to Philadelphia
- o u r favo ri t es fro m esp o m a -
and down to Washington D.C. to sell to caretakers of large properties and municipalities. The company survived for many years, but growth was slow and very hard. Then, as if the depression years weren’t hard enough, the company suffered a terrible fire in 1946. Mr. Sanders rebuilt with the help of dedicated employees and friends, vowing never again to construct a wooden building...
PLAN T F OOD P R OD U C T S
1946 also brought about an interesting change in how Americans thought about gardening. Servicemen were returning from WWII, and taking advantage of the GI Bill of Rights – a government program that provided zero-down-payment, low-interest home loans. This encouraged millions of American families to move out of urban apartments and into suburban homes. These young families took great pride in their new homes, and
All of Espoma “Tone” products are completely natural and organic. They are a blend of the finest natural ingredients – free of fillers, sludge or toxic materials. Choose from Holly-tone, Garden-tone, Plant-tone, Tree-tone, Bulb-tone, Flower-tone, and many others.
LAWN CA R E
Espoma’s 4-season organic lawn program is very effective, totally eco-friendly and sells for a lower price than other organic options. Make sure to look for our early season 4-bag promotions for added savings.
it’s on those small private plots that home gardening as a hobby took root. In 1949 Mr. Sanders had a vision for a new type of plant food; one specifically formulated to meet the needs of plants that require acid soils. As he was from Millville, NJ – The Holly City of America – so he called it Hollytone, and its success changed the face of The Espoma Company forever. Since those early years Espoma has expanded over a dozen times to become a state-of-the-art blending and packaging facility. Today Espoma manufactures over 48 products including plant foods, lawn foods, potting mixes and controls, and H.G Sanders’ great grandson has become the fourth generation of management to enter the Company.
Bio-tone® Bio-tone® Starter Plus is a specialized all-natural plant food that provides a concentration of beneficial bacteria along with mycorrhizae. Bio-tone Starter Plus improves root development, and helps new plants establish more quickly, even in difficult planting situations. We feel so strongly about the benefits of Bio-tone that we’ve blended it into Mahoney’s private label Compost Planting Mix.
other espoma products
In addition to their Tones products, Espoma offers some single ingredient products such as Bone Meal, Kelp Meal, and Rock Phosphate. Each product helps correct a variety of issues such as nutrient deficiencies to pH imbalances. MAHONEYSGARDEN.COM | 13
cooking with
uncle mike & chef bob pho to s by ka te m u r p hy lo we n ste in chef bob j a rvis of c a pe c od ’s th e quarterde c k restaura n t a n d p i l ot house taug ht un c le m ik e m a h o n ey a thing or t wo a b out c ook in g w i th herbs and ea rly - sea son vegg i e s .
MAHONEYSGARDEN.COM | 14
MAHONEYSGARDEN.COM | 15
Nestled down a long windy road next to commercial Sandwich Marina, sits the Pilot House restaurant. It’s where you’ll find owner and executive chef, Bob Jarvis, as he dreams up recipes inspired by coastal Cape Cod and his love for the local farm and agriculture scene. Jarvis, who’s father headed up the Chart Room in Cataumet for many years, now runs the Pilot House in Sandwich and down-town Falmouth’s Quaterdeck Restaurant year-round. Last spring, Bob had a special mission in the kitchen: to make a few dishes with his childhood friend, Uncle Mike Mahoney. The two share a passion for all things outdoors. For over 30 years the two have bonded over skiing, good beer, and a Grateful Dead show (or two). Yet the thing that has kept the friendship strong is their love for cooking and entertaining. (If you see Uncle Mike, ask him about his legendary pig roasts). For each guy, their passion in the kitchen actually begins in the sea, on the farm and in the garden. On a hot late-spring day, Uncle Mike made the trek down to Pilot House, with a truck full of his herbs and freshly harvested cold-season crops. In mid-March to early April, Uncle Mike plants his favorite cold-loving herbs and veggies. Spinach, Kale, Arugula, Collards, Swiss Chard and Broccoli thrive in spring’s cool temperatures. Herbs like mint, cilantro, thyme, rosemary and parsley are also readily available at this time and were the perfect ingredients to start the feast. As a self-professed disciple of all things local, Jarvis operates as fresh as possible. With daily deliveries from local farms and fisherman, what’s in season is what’s on the menu. He believes a chef is only as good as his relationship with his local farmers. “Those guys work their tails off, so when they work hard to pick baby arugula and get it over here, we’ll work just as hard to make sure it is respected on the menu.” For Jarvis, produce is like seafood. As menu ingredients arrive off the docks or from the farm, often times the kitchen staff won’t know what’s coming in until it’s there. “It’s like an episode of Chopped! We open the doors of the farm truck and have just a few hours to figure how to work it into lunch and dinner!” With this type of fast-paced environment, Jarvis has become quite accustomed to manipulating his favorite vegetables into his dishes, and getting creative with their use. One of Chef Bob’s favorites? Kale. Kale soup is his most popular soup at the MAHONEYSGARDEN.COM | 16
Quaterdeck, and Jarvis makes a fantastic baby kale salad. He even introduces a technique that makes Uncle Mike chuckle. “We massage the kale before using it!” says Bob. After a few heaping laughs, he explains the importance of doing so. “Kale is naturally tough, especially baby kale. Massaging the leaves actually helps release the natural oils, takes down the bitterness and brings about hidden citrusy flavor. It’s a really cool veg.” Chef Bob’s favorite kale varieties? ‘Dwarf Blue Curled’ and ‘Portuguese (Biera)’. As the two get focused in the kitchen, Chef Bob
starts garnishing a plate with a pesto sauce. Uncle Mike remarks that basil is a warm-season crop, to which Bob corrects him, “It’s arugula pesto! With pine nuts, a little garlic, olive oil and baby arugula, it’s a great way to use up all of our arugula today. It definitely has a bit of a zip to it.” Chef Bob really digs Uncle Mike’s herbs. When he’s not using herbs to garnish, he’s dreaming up creative ways to make them a focal point in his dishes. From cilantro-infused mango salsa served with sea bass, to sauteed scallops tossed with blistered red cherry tomatoes and sharp Italian flat-leaf parsley, herbs can make or break
also make an outrageous lobster bacon risotto with roasted corn” says Bob. Uncle Mike points out he loves growing his Asian greens and vegetables. Thai and Japanese eggplants have exploded in cuisine over the past few years. He adds, “we are carrying more and more of the Asian-influenced herbs and veggies every year. I’m finding so many uses for things like Joi Choi now too. It’s excellent stir-fried with garlic. Not bad for a guy named Mahoney...”
get the recipes cooked up by Chef Bob and Uncle Mike at: mahoneysgarden.com/chef-bob
For anyone looking to begin their quest to plant the perfect edible garden, Uncle Mike says to start small, and experiment. “As long as you have full sun, good soil and the right organic fertilizer, anything is possible.” Uncle Mike reminds the small space gardener to fear not—many herb and veggie varieties are available in compact sizes perfect for growing in containers. He recommends having a healthy soil to start, and feeding organically often. “Your herbs and veggies need a 1-2 punch. Use a slow release granular like Espoma’s Tomato-tone or Garden-tone. Then feed regularly with an organic water-soluble. I recommend Neptune’s Harvest. It’s so critical to get great tasting edibles” says Mike. The one recommendation Chef Bob has for beginners? “Start with the salad—it’s the best place to experience your herbs and veggies. Make your own dressings. No cooking required.” As Chef Bob and Mike wind down in the kitchen, (it’s almost hotter than a greenhouse in there now) the two retreat to the Pilot House’s outdoor bar overlooking the Cape Cod Canal. Getting ready to enjoy the fruits of their labor, Bob orders up a cold Stella. Uncle Mike prefers his IPA. The Pilot House | 14 Gallo Road, Sandwich Quarter Deck Restaurant | 164 Main St. Falmouth
a dish. “You can’t think of herbs as a garnish or afterthought anymore. They have the power to completely transform an entire recipe” says Bob. Take for example, his famous mint and strawberry mojito— using Uncle Mike’s spearmint and ‘Ozark Beauty’ strawberries.
What about Chef Bob’s early-season must-have? ‘Bulls Blood’ Beets. “Not only are the beets awesome, but I sometimes use the sprouts as a garnish or sprinkled over entrees. They are really versatile and one of my favorite early spring and fall crops”.
After a course of lobster tacos, fresh sea bass, sauteed scallops over a bed of baby kale, Uncle Mike and Chef Bob start discussing their earlyseason veggie gardens. What are the cold-season crops Uncle Mike can’t live without? ‘Bright Lights’ Swiss Chard, ‘Mesculin Mix’ Lettuce, ‘China Express’’ Cabbage and ‘Pacman’ Broccoli.
Looking ahead? Chef Bob looks forward to planting Uncle Mike’s Sun Gold and Sweet 100 Cherries in May. “We blister them on the grill with a little olive oil – a delicious garnish on any fish” He also is a big fan of corn when it’s actually inseason and local. My favorite variety is ‘Honey & Pearl’ to make different relishes and succotash. We MAHONEYSGARDEN.COM | 17
l aw n care
feed your lawn
and your soil
Most lawn-care programs don’t feed the soil. Barry Green, of Jonathan Green Lawn Care products, tells us why healthy soil is critical to a long-term, beautifully green lawn. A while back, we asked Barry Green II to share his unique vision for lawn care. He called it “The New American Lawn.” Since the Green family has specialized in lawn care science since 1881, we knew he would have a valuable perspective. According to Barry, traditional lawn programs have many major failings: First, their fertilizers only feed the grass for a short time. This kind of feeding is like being on a sugar diet – it provides a shot of energy, but no long-term nutrition or sustained health. Next, these programs often “over-rely” on pesticides that address the symptoms of poor turf, such as weeds or diseases, but not the cause of the problems, which is poor soil. Year after year, many continue to apply traditional fertilizer programs and still encounter challenges that require additional treatments that don’t address the root of the problem. Weeds are a major indicator of a poor soil because they thrive in lower pH areas. Healthy soil with the correct pH allows lawns to grow thicker and naturally block out invading weeds. To make matters worse, lawn fertilizers acidify the soil every time they are used. Because New England lawns tend to be acidic to begin with, using traditional fertilizers only make acidic soils even more off-balanced. MAHONEYSGARDEN.COM | 18
So what’s a homeowner to do? Barry and his team have developed a pretty revolutionary system called The New American Lawn. This program feeds both the lawn AND THE SOIL. The result? A visibly thicker, healthier, greener lawn with fewer weeds. Over time, your lawn’s health will rely less on traditional fertilizers that feed many of the leaves and instead, maintain a healthy balance from the roots up.
The New American Lawn Care Plan 1 . Feed your soil L o ve yo u r L awn, L o v e Y o u r S o il Yes, that’s really the name of Barry’s favorite product in the Jonathan Green lineup. This unique soil amendment organically stimulates soil microbes and soil biology. It also naturally aerates the soil and encourages deeper root growth.
M a g -i -c a l Lawns need a balanced pH in order to take in nutrients. Soil with a low pH (below 6) prevents grass plants from utilizing nutrients – even added nutrients. Ask the lawn expert at the Mahoney’s nearest you how to test your lawns pH, then spread Jonathan Green’s MAG-I-CAL to correct imbalance. Early spring is the best time to apply MAG-I-CAL.
lawn c ar e
2 . Feed the lawn Crab gras s Pr even t er pl us Gr een-u p With a wider application window than most crabgrass preventers, apply this in the early Spring, before the forsythias stop blooming. (This time is a natural indication of when your lawn is awake and ready to receive the nutrients). Jonathan Green’s Crabgrass Preventer will control crabgrass all season, before and after it germinates. With slow-release nitrogen it will also green-up the lawn quickly.
EARLY SPRING
Apply Crabgrass Preventer plus Green-up to feed the lawn and provide season-long crabgrass prevention. Apply MAG-I-CAL to balance your soil’s pH on the same day
late SPRING
Apply Weed & Feed to feed the lawn and kill over 250 broadleaf weeds like dandelions, chickweed, clover, and oxalis
Weed & Feed By late Spring, or early Summer, it’s time to combat broadleaf weeds like dandelions and chickweed that make their appearance just in time for backyard BBQs. Jonathan Green’s Weed & Feed will continue feeding the lawn with 35% slow-release nitrogen.
Winter Sur vival This fall feeding keeps your lawn greener later into the year and, at the same time helps ward off winter diseases, like snow mold. Iron, sulfur and 30% slow release nitrogen help to keep the lawn a deep-green color with no surge growth in the spring. FALL
Want to learn more? Watch the videos on our Jonathan Green programs. mahoneysgarden.com/jonathan-green
Apply Winter Survival to feed the lawn and help prepare it against the long, harsh winter lying ahead. If you’re seeding in the fall, apply Winter Survival immediately after applying grass seed
SUMMER
Apply Love Your Lawn - Love Your Soil to feed the soil and stimulate its biology. Love Your Lawn - Love Your Soil activates the soil microbes so they break down “trapped” nutrients in the soil. It also loosens hard soil for deeper root growth
3 . Use superior grass seed BLACK BEAUTY GRASS SEED Barry suggests blocking out weeds by over-seeding your lawn with a top quality grass seed such as Jonathan Green’s Black Beauty. It’s their best selling seed, known for its high germination rate, dark green color, deep roots, and drought-tolerance. For best results, overseed in the early spring or early fall.
MORE TIPS Water deeply but less frequently. This promotes healthier, deeper root growth and allows the soil surface to dry so it does not encourage diseases. It also saves on your water bill! For mowing- set your mower blade on the high side – at least 3 inches, and use a mulching blade instead of bagging. Grass clipping provide free organic fertilizer when broken down by soil biology. Finally, Barry advises homeowners to be patient. As with any holistic approach, it may take time for noticeable results. While it may take a few seasons to truly restore your soil’s health to a great balance, the reward is there. MAHONEYSGARDEN.COM | 19
north facing
shade garden
3 2
1
4 5
6
a few landscape
essentials illustrations by Natalya Zahn
Here’s a few trees, shrubs and perennials we think every yard should have. Hardy, resilient — put simply, they just perform great. Shown in a landscape two ways: for shady or sunny spaces.
MAHONEYSGARDEN.COM | 20
1
2
1. h i n oki cypress - Chamaecyparis obtusa A compact, slow-growing, upright, soft-needled evergreen with a loose pyramidal form. Grows to about 6 feet tall and 5 feet wide in 15 years. Full sun to part shade. Also try: Viburnum, Smokebush or Annabelle Hydrangea
2. red twi g dogwood ‘ivory halo’ Cornus alba ‘Ivory Halo’ 3
4
Compact size with beautiful green and white foliage. Enjoy red stems which shine bright in winter months. Also try: Rhododendron, Inkberry Holly, or Dwarf Oakleaf Hydrangea
3. foth erg i lla - Fothergilla gardenii Compact grower, and stunning each season. Fragrant, showy flowers in spring, frosty blue leaves in summer and brilliant yellow, red, orange foliage in the fall. Also try: Korean Boxwood or Leucothoe
4. h osta ‘ wi de bri m ’ Shade loving, hostas are grown mostly for their beautiful 5
6
foliage. ‘Wide brim’ has variegated wide leaves and lavender flowers on tall stems. Also try: Heuchera, Hellebore, or Columbine
5. Ti a rella - Tiarella cordifolia Commonly known as Foamflower, Tiarella is a fast, low spreader that forms dense clumps of foliage. Find petite flowers that create a ‘foam’ effect during the spring. Also try: Lily of the Valley, Solomon’s Seal, or Ferns
6. si beri a n ca rpet cypre ss Microbiata decussata With flowering plants less accessible for shady spaces, creating a dynamic look can be achieved by incorporating different layers of interesting foliage. Choose plants with different shapes, textures and heights for a stunning presentation. We’ve also included some substitutes that would mimic similar growing habits in the landscape. Please note, supply and selection will vary at each Mahoney’s location. If you are looking for something in particular, we suggest calling before making the trip. These are a few of our favorites, we have lots more to choose from, come on in and one of our experts can help you choose the perfect plant for your space!
A low spreading conifer with feathery foliage that turns bronzy-purple in the winter. Also try: Dwarf Mountain Laurel, Cavatine Andromeda, or Deutzia Gracilis ‘Nikko’
MAHONEYSGARDEN.COM | 21
1
2
3
4
5
6
1. c o m m on l i l ac - Syringa vulgaris A seasonal favorite. With fragrant purple blooms, lilacs are the stunner of any landscape. Grows to 10’ tall and 5’ wide. Also try: Japanese Holly Steeds, or Upright Juniper
2. ja pa n e s e and ro meda - Pieris japonica Enjoy one of the many stunning andromeda varieties like ‘Mountain Fire’ with brilliant red foliage early in the season and then deep green leaves. Drooping clusters of elegant white, snowy flowers. Also try: Japanese Holly or Dwarf Lilac ‘Miss Kim’
3. B e a r d ed Ir is - Iris germanica Most bearded Iris flower in the spring from April to June. With stunning large blooms in an array of colors, their gracefull foliage is attractive even when not in bloom. Also try: Knockout Roses, Daylilies, Peonies or Nepeta
4 . SPI R EA mag ic c a r p et Spiraea japonica ‘Magic Carpet’ With colorful spring foliage and a clear pink bloom, Magic Carpet is a compact grower with bright gold foliage that turns a rich russet red in the fall. Also try: Dwarf Mugo Pine or Midnight Wine Weigelia
5 . GE R ANI UM ‘ROZANNE ’ One of our favorite perennials! Blooms all season with vibrant purple blossoms. Grows low and spreads, Geranium Rozanne is incredibly versatile and resilient. Also try: Coreopsis, Autumn Sedum or Salvia
6. fa l s e c y p r es s ‘g o l d en mo p’ Chamaecyparis pisifera ‘Golden Mop’ A mounding evergreen that is truly mop-like. Thread-like foliage colors best in full sun with green to golden hues. Also try: Hydrangea ‘Little Lime’ or Inkberry ‘Shamrock’
MAHONEYSGARDEN.COM | 22
Full sun allows for an infinite selection of perennials, trees and shrubs that add stunning color to your landscape. Seek out varieties that not only add color in their blooms, but foliage too! Sourcing evergreens is a great way to keep color in the yard year-round. We’ve also included some substitutes that would mimic similar growing habits in the landscape. Please note, supply and selection will vary at each Mahoney’s location. If you are looking for something in particular, we suggest calling before making the trip. These are a few of our favorites, we have lots more to choose from, come on in and one of our experts can help you choose the perfect plant for your space!
south facing
sunny garden
1
2
3
4
5
6
MAHONEYSGARDEN.COM | 23
a gu i de to
seed starting Few gardening pursuits are as rewarding as growing your flowers and vegetables from seed. For centuries, New England gardeners and farmers alike have embarked on their labor of love early on the season. The goal: to sow their seeds indoors while patiently awaiting the arrival of warm weather. Our friends at Botanical Interests Seeds have helped us provide some indoor seed starting basics. We love the Botanical Interests seed collection. You’ll find hundreds of Non-GMO and USDA certified organic varieties.
MAHONEYSGARDEN.COM | 24
Carefully tending to your plants from the
find in started plants. Depending on which
beginning invokes a sense of wonder in
Mahoney’s you visit, you’ll find up to 500 seed
gardeners of all ages. This is especially true in
varieties to choose from – this is especially
New England, as our growing season is short.
exciting if you are looking for heirloom and
Other than cool-season crops, you’ll want to
hard-to-find vegetable varieties!
wait until after the “Average Last Frost Date” to sow outside. The Farmer’s Almanac lists
Perhaps the most compelling reason is that
that as May 4th in Boston, but this is just an
seed starting provides a wonderful sense
average, and it varies by town. Starting from
of accomplishment – especially for kids.
seed allows you to get a jump-start on varieties
It connects you to nature, and makes you
that you may otherwise have to wait until May
appreciate, and control where your food really
to find in the garden center. Different seed
comes from. We say it’s hard to explain – you
varieties require different numbers of days to
just have to experience it!
sprout and grow. All Botanical Interests seed packets are labeled with their germination
g e ttin g sta rt e d
time. Use this information to help you find the
We should mention that many plants should
perfect time to sow, relative to the last frost.
be started from seed outdoors. Radishes, spinaches and carrots, for example, grow
The other advantage of starting from seed is
so fast that it is much easier to sow directly
finding a selection that you may not otherwise
outdoors. There are other veggies such as
salad greens that are fussy about being transplanted so
HERBS & VEGGIES
planting directly into the garden produces better results. That said, let’s dig into seed starting indoors.
INDOOR SOWING GUIDE cho o se your c onta i n e r
(number of week s before l ast sp r in g frost )
Most people buy our seed-starting flats because they maximize plants per square inch, but no one says you have to go that route; you can use anything from cut-down milk
1 0 – 1 2 WEEKS
6 -8 WEEKS
cartons to elegant glazed pottery. As long as the container
Artichoke Celery Eggplant Onion- Bulb Rosemary
Most Herbs
is not too shallow, and you have proper drainage, the plants don’t really care. Go with what you like to look at. We carry many biodegradable fiber pots and seed trays, perfect for growing! Note: If you do reuse a container, make sure to clean and sanitize first. li ghten up
Seeds need light – lots of it! When starting your seeds indoors, place in a south-facing sunny window. If you don’t think you’ll
8 -1 0 WEEKS
Leeks Bunching Onions Peppers
4 -6 WEEKS
Broccoli Brussels Sprouts Cauliflower Collards Fennel Kale Kohlrabi Lettuce
Okra Radicchio Sorrel Tomatillo Tomato 2 -4 WEEKS
Broccoli Raab Cucumber Melon Pumpkin Summer Squash Winter Squash Watermelon
have enough sun, stop in and talk to us for tips on artificial lighting! There are ways to use your own lighting at home to help your seedlings along! planti n g mix es
If you search online you’ll find a lot of conflicting information about what’s the “best” planting soil to use. We sell several – from our organic professional potting mix to an organic seed starting media by Espoma. They’ll all work great – just remember that regular outdoor garden soil is definitely not OK. Seeds need the right amount of moisture, warmth and air to germinate. Regular garden soil is too dense and will drown the seeds and eliminate much-needed oxygen and create an environment ripe for pests and disease. name your plants
When they’re very young a lot of seedlings look pretty much the same, so do yourself a favor and label the plants as soon as you get started. While you are at it, mark down when you first planted the seeds. Trust us, you’ll find this really helpful. keep i t c ozy
Seeds need warmth – most will germinate at temperatures around 75ºF, but eggplants, peppers, and other warm-season plants like it even warmer. Again it’s good to read package instructions carefully. Once the seeds germinate, room temperatures of 70º–75º will keep most seedlings happy. a wo rd about water
Water the containers as needed to keep them evenly moist but not sopping wet. Misting using a spray bottle, or bottom watering (adding water to the drainage tray) are great ways MAHONEYSGARDEN.COM | 25
to keep planting mix moist without disturbing seeds and young seedlings. Covering your containers with a clear lid or clear plastic wrap also helps
FLOWERS
increase humidity during germination. After your seedlings emerge, remove the cover.
INDOOR SOWING GUIDE ( n u m b e r o f w e e ks befo re la st spri n g fro st)
c o u n t dow n
Once your seedlings have grown enough to transplant to their ultimate spot (either in the ground or in a container) it’s time to prepare your babies to
6–12 WEEKS
sta rt t h e s e o ut d o o r s
Most Perennials
d i r e c t ly i n t h e g ro u n d:
4- 6 WEEKS
Nasturtiums All large flower mixes: California Color
Most Annuals
Bring Home the Butterflies Fabulous Fireworks Made in the Shade
withstand outdoor conditions. It called “Hardening off.” Start by placing your seedlings outdoors in a protected, shady area. Over the next 7 to 10 days, move them more and more into direct sun (for sun-loving varieties). But remember your seedling are still very “tender” – be sure to bring them in at night if temperatures drop below 45°F. Then congratulations – you’re ready to plant. P o llin ato r s
Bees, hummingbirds and butterflies pollinate a third or more of the food we eat. You can help simply by choosing seeds that create habitats that protect and feed pollinators. And while you’re thinking of this, plant a diversity of colors, bloom times, and heights – it will provide a better environment, and it will be prettier for you, too. a f in a l t ho u g ht
Before you start, take a minute to appreciate the seed. They come in all sizes – some as fine as powder – but each is a remarkable living thing with a protective outer coat, an embryo, stored nutrients, and a genetic blueprint for its development. When you stop to think, it’s really quite miraculous that a tiny seed will grow into a big, beautiful plant, in just one season!
o ur favo r it e b ota n ic a l i n terests
MAHONEYSGARDEN.COM | 26
a rug u la ‘ ro c k e t sa la d’
ba s il ‘s i am queen ’
Great for containers, adds spice flavor to any salad.
Sweet Thai basil, spicy with hints of anise and cloves.
c a rrot ‘ da n v e r s 1 2 6 ’
c o s mos ‘sea shel l s ’
A tasty heirloom, developed right in Danvers, MA.
Blooms all summer to fall. Rolled sea shell-like petals. Mixed packet.
M e s c u lin ‘ s p ic y m ix ’
Butt erf ly w eed
Baby greens in a easy-to-grow mix. Good in containers.
Asclepias tuberosa. Orange flowers and a true butterfly magnet.
PEPPE R ‘ COR AL BELLE’
I c e p l an t ‘dai sy s park l e’
Bright orange sweet pepper, compact growth. Very prolific.
Brilliantly colored daisy-like flowers on succulent foliage.
m ic ro g r e e n ‘ savo ry m ix ’
z in ni a ‘cactus fl ow er’
Easy to grow, crisp delightful mix for salads and sandwiches.
Huge multi-petal beauties. Loved by butterflies. Assorted colors.
h om e + g ar d e n
contained delight Pottery and planters enhance your indoor and outdoor spaces just as much as your plants. With the largest selection of pottery, planters and containers in New England, we strive to source quality pieces that are as functional as they are beautiful. Here are a few of our favorite planters and accessories this season.
MAHONEYSGARDEN.COM | 27
h om e + g arden
r us tic fro s t-resistant
lightweight fib erc lay
g ro n o mi c s
b a r ha r b or
rai s ed-beds
c ed ar
cr es cent all-weather
*please note, supplies and selection will vary at each Mahoney’s location
g ro nomi cs ®
fi b erc lay
frost-resistant
CRESCENT
bar harbor cedar
Hand-crafted in the USA in Western Red Cedar, Gronomics modular raised- bed systems and elevated boxes are perfect for growing your edibles in small spaces.
Keep the style of stone and cement planters with the easy maneuverability of a durable plastic. Now available in black. Indoors or out, funky tropicals or elegant boxwood- the possibilities are endless.
Made in Vietnam, thick walled and fired hot in the kiln to seal the clay. Frost resistant because no water can penetrate, so it’s perfect for year-round use. Available in rustic designs and colorful glazes too!
Where function meets design, Crescent planters are made of lightweight plastic. Available in large sizes and perfect for trees and shrubs. Find many styles and colors, from modern to traditional.
Find beautifully crafted cedar windowboxes and planters—a timeless style built to last. Paint in any color to match your home or keep natural and let weather for a rustic look.
MAHONEYSGARDEN.COM | 28
h om e + g ar d e n
h an g ing pot t ery
gla zed p o t t ery
bu r l e y c lay m ade i n t he us a
lechuza s elf-wat ering
b u rley clay
h ang i ng pottery
glazed pottery
lechuza
Using a blend of the finest clays from mines in Southeastern Ohio, Burley Clay has been making pottery since 1923. Crafted in many shapes and colors, these pieces are as durable as they come!
Our favorite design trend this season, perfect for accenting porches and covered areas, hanging pottery enhances any space — large or small!
Our largest selection of high-fired glazed pottery with many crafted to withstand frosts. In many shapes, colors and styles... there’s something for every style and function!
Self-watering indoor/ outdoor planters in beautifully designed windowboxes, stand-alone planters and tabletop pots. Perfect for those who need to keep plants hydrated while you’re on vacation!
MAHONEYSGARDEN.COM | 29
our f avorite plante r ac c ess orie s
plant caddy
APOLLO s elf-watering railing planter
p o t feet
ups - A-dais y
s aucers
p ot feet
rai li ng p lant er
plant caddy
Ups- A-Daisy®
saucers
Keep your containers elevated for improved drainage and to prevent water stains on your patio or deck. Available in plastic, terra-cotta and ceramic designs they can be as decorative as they are functional!
This cool new railing planter by Apollo is one of our favorite introductions this Spring. With a selfwatering feature, brackets and a stabilizer you don’t have to buy all the pieces separately. Fits most railings! In assorted colors.
Make your planters portable! A must-have for easy mobility. Available in many styles and sizes for indoors or out. Plant caddies are great for moving heavy pots around for easy watering or to capture more sun!
Reduce the weight of your planter by raising the bottom! With an Ups-aDaisy insert, you’ll create excellent drainage and require less soil. Perfect for shallow plantings like succulents and rock gardens too!
Keep your pots from staining your tabletops and floors with saucers. Available in decorative colors and styles to match your pottery, or functional plastics- we take pride in sourcing many items so you have options.
MAHONEYSGARDEN.COM | 30
s t u ff we
love
Trialed and tested by our passionate staff, here are a few of the items we can’t live without this season.
Anna’s Promise Rose® MAHONEYSGARDEN.COM | 31
stuff we LOVE
stunning orchids h a n d -g rown i n C a lifo r n ia Orchid-growing legend, Andy Matsui, set off for California over 50 years ago to breed and develop remarkably beautiful flowers. In the 1990s, he immersed himself in creating easy-care, long lasting and beautiful orchids. Today, Matsui Nursery hand-grows one of the largest collection of Phalaenopsis, Miltonias, Exotics, Cymbidiums, and much more in the world. We take pride in carrying Matsui Nursery’s orchids year-round, especially in the spring and summer months when their presence can transform your indoor space into an exotic oasis! Pictured left, an exclusive Miltonia orchid.
neptune’s harvest o r g ani c fer ti l i zers made in G loucest e r Made right on the docks of Gloucester harbor, Neptune’s Harvest organic fish and seaweed fertilizers are Uncle Mike’s favorite liquid concentrate feeds. Perfect for herbs, veggies, flowers and houseplants. Now with new formulations ‘Rose & Flowering’ and ‘Tomato & Veg’, you’ll get the most beautiful blooms and tasty veggies this season. Learn more at: mahoneysgarden.com/neptunes-harvest
Anna’s Promise® a down t on a bbe y -i n sp ir e d r o se While we’re sad to see the series go, you can keep a little Downton with you always. Week’s Roses has introduced an exclusive rose collection inspired by the women of Downton. In addition to Anna’s Promise™, find Pretty Lady Rose™ in a stunning pink to make your garden sing with elegant blooms. MAHONEYSGARDEN.COM | 32
stuff we LOVE
lyric bird food bi rd s kn ow t h e di ffe r e n c e Maker of several premium birdseed mixes, the Lyric Company is a totally dedicated team of bird lovers. Unlike companies that fill their bags with whatever seed or grain that’s cheaper at the moment, Lyric insists on following their proven proprietary recipes. Lyric bird foods offer a high nutritional value, superior taste, attractive appearance, and guaranteed freshness. And by the way, birds can definitely tell the difference! Try Supreme, Fruit & Nut, Fine Tunes, or any of Lyrics fine mixes, and you will see the most diverse group of feathery visitors.
retro patio lights a m us t-have f or any party We love the festive illumination our retro string lights bring to any outdoor space. Available in solar and electric powered, the warm-white LED glow will brighten any space to keep you and your guests outdoors throughout the night. Check out our assortment of decorative string lights with vintage-inspired wire cages.
MAHONEYSGARDEN.COM | 33
stuff we LOVE
COMPOST PLANTING MIX e n h a n ce d wi t h Bi o-Ton e S t a r t e r p lu s Formulated by our very own nursery buyer, Bill, Mahoney’s Compost Planting Mix helps plants trees, shrubs, annuals and perennials establish faster. Customblended exclusively for Mahoney’s by Oldcastle Lawn & Garden in Poland Spring, Maine, and enhanced with Bio-tone Starter Plus from Espoma, our planting mix provides beneficial bacteria and mycorrhizae that help retain moisture, improve drainage, increase root mass and reduces plant stress. Don’t plant without it!
mossmax re-vamp yo u r l a wn After our warm winter, many will find a moss problem in the lawn. Before you put your Step 1 down, spread fast-acting Moss Max lawn granules from Bonide.
jack’s classic
coop poop
p etuni a feed
t h e ori g i n a l ve g g i e fe r t iliz e r
Designed for iron-hungry
Home to millions of healthy, well-fed chickens, The Pearl Valley Egg
plants like petunias and
Farm developed an all-natural air-dried composting technique that
calibrachoa, this low
turns chicken litter into Coop-Poop, a premium slow-release OMRI
phosphorus water-soluble
listed organic compost. Virtually odor-free, Coop-Poop is perfect for
feed keeps these plants in
flower gardens and containers, as well as vegetable gardens.
beautiful bloom.
Learn more at: www.coop-poop.com
stuff we LOVE
the benefits of slow release Osmocote starts with a granule made of the three basic plant nutrients: nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. Then each granule is given a biodegradable coating made of vegetable oils. After Osmocote is applied, moisture penetrates the coating and slowly starts to release the nutrients. Slow is the key word because Osmocote’s unique coating is designed to provide small amounts of nutrients consistently over several months. Even if exposed to heavy rainfall the pellets dissolve very slowly. This has three benefits: your plants won’t ever get overexposed (called “burning”), the fertilizer won’t leach away into the ground water, and the nutrients will feed the plant for up to 4 months.
outdoor & indoor Formulated for general use but is ideal for annual and perennial plants growing in pots, hanging baskets or window boxes. It’s also terrific for indoor plants.
flower & vegetable Has a higher percentage of phosphorus. This formulation feeds your plants and their root systems. It’s perfect for perennials and woody shrubs in the ground, as well as vegetables and fruits like tomatoes, root vegetables, melons and berries. Osmocote can be applied just about any time. You can sprinkle Osmocote in the hole when first planting trees, shrubs, annuals, perennials and vegetables. Or for container plants you can mix Osmocote with the planting mix when transplanting. Or for any plant you can simply “topdress” by sprinkling Osmocote on top of the soil underneath the plants branch area.
convenience
osmocote our f avorite slow -release f e e d
One of Osmocote’s best benefits is convenience. Apply it once, and your plant is fed for up to 4 months. This is especially helpful for hard-to-reach window boxes and hanging baskets. It’s also perfect for weekend summer homes, plants and gardens. To learn more visit: www.osmocote.com
Ever buy a plant and notice the tiny beads sitting in the container? Those are Osmocote, a remarkable slow-release fertilizer growers use to feed their shrubs, annuals and perennials. MAHONEYSGARDEN.COM | 35
- fa m i ly - o w n e d s i n c e 1 9 5 9 b r i g hton • chel msford • concord fa l m ou th • oste rv ill e • tewksbu ry wayl a nd • winchester
www.mahoneysgarden.com