July/August 2014
MichiganGardener.com
Your guide to Great Lakes gardening
perennials
profile A plant aficionado
plant focus Brugmansia
thyme for herbs Hops
feature New shrubs & trees for 2014
design Landscape challenges & remedies
Please thank our advertisers in this issue
Acanthus
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Caring for your Summer Garden
Arranging Garden Flowers
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Michigan Gardener | July/August 2014 | MichiganGardener.com
In July, perennial gardeners are just getting started.
Garden Wisdom Before you restore the soul, you have to restore the soil. —Monte Powell
At Telly’s, there is always something fresh to add color to your summer garden. Come see why we are a favorite summer destination for so many Michigan gardeners.
Ask MG............................................................6
Design Corner............................Back Cover
Healthy Lawns...............................................8 Vegetable Patch..........................................10 To-Do List.......................................................12 Best New Plant at Chelsea Flower Show! Astilbe 'Chocolate Shogun'
Anemone 'Wild Swan'
Thyme for Herbs.............................................14 Books for the Michigan Gardener........................................16 Classified Ads...............................................17 Where to pick up Michigan Gardener.....................................20 Advertiser Index........................................20 Weather Wrap............................................ 21 Subscription Form...................................... 21
Hosta ‘June Fever’
Hellebore ‘Fluffy Ruffles Mix’
Profile: A plant aficionado’s garden....................................22 Calendar.........................................................25 Places to Grow........................................... 28 Perennial Perspectives................................30 New Shrubs & Trees for 2014..............34
Echinacea ‘Sombrero Flamenco Orange’
Heuchera ‘Pear Crisp’
Plant Focus: Brugmansia.................18
On the cover: With its striking flowers and architectural foliage, acanthus makes a bold statement in both sunny and partial shade gardens. Learn more on page 30. Photo: Eric Hofley / Michigan Gardener
Publisher/Editor Eric Hofley
Sambucus ‘Lemon Lace’
Lavender ‘Phenomenal’
Design & Production Jonathon Hofley Advertising Eric Hofley Circulation Jonathon Hofley
TROY • 248-689-8735 3301 John R • 1/4 mile north of 16 Mile Rd.
Editorial Assistant Anna Doman
SHELBY TOWNSHIP • 248-659-8555 4343 24 Mile • Btwn Dequindre & Shelby Rd.
PONTIAC • 248-724-2300 559 Orchard Lake Rd (at Goldner Walsh) Between Telegraph & Woodward
find us on
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Contributors Karen Bovio Cheryl English Emaline Fronckowiak Mary Gerstenberger Julia Hofley Rosann Kovalcik Janet Macunovich Steve Martinko Beverly Moss Steven Nikkila George Papadelis Sandie Parrott Traven Pelletier Jean/Roxanne Riggs Deborah Silver Jim Slezinski Lisa Steinkopf Steve Turner
16291 W. 14 Mile Rd., Suite 5 Beverly Hills, MI 48025-3327 Phone: 248-594-5563 Fax: 248-594-5564 E-mail: publisher@MichiganGardener.com Website: www.MichiganGardener.com Publishing schedule 6 issues per year: April, May, June, July/Aug, Sept/Oct, Nov/Dec. Published the first week of the mo. Subscriptions (Please make check payable to Michigan Gardener) 1 yr, 6 iss/$14 2 yr, 12 iss/$26 3 yr, 18 iss/$36 Back issues All past issues are available. Please send your request along with a check for $3.00 per issue payable to Michigan Gardener. Canadian subscriptions 1 yr, 6 iss/$22 US 2 yr, 12 iss/$42 US Copyright © 2014 Michigan Gardener. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be copied, reproduced or used in any form without the expressed, written permission of the publisher. Neither the advertiser nor the publisher will be responsible for misinformation, typographical errors, omissions, etc. contained herein. Michigan Gardener is published by Motor City Publishing, Inc.
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Michigan Gardener | July/August 2014 | MichiganGardener.com
ask mg Boxwood winter damage When do you shape boxwood shrubs? Y.B., Kewadin Will boxwoods that suffered winter damage and now have mostly white leaves come back or is it better to replace them? If so, what shrub would you recommend? S., Monroe The best time to shape established boxwoods is mid to late summer. Obviously there are circumstances which can change that timing. For example, many boxwoods suffered terrible damage from this past winter. Heavy snow loads broke branches in unprotected boxwoods, making them unsightly and susceptible to insect damage and disease. In many cases the damage was so bad in this slowgrowing evergreen that the only solution is removal and replacement. You can replace them with boxwood. But they will need winter protection against scalding by wrapping in burlap. If damage is isolated to a small branch or two, then pruning off the damage and letting the shrub rejuvenate itself suffices. The damage most seen this spring has been
the bleached-out leaves. Leaf burn or scald occurs when the sun reflects on snow that stays without melting. There were unusually cold temperatures as well. Check to see if there are healthy green leaves in the shrub’s interior. If so, the scald did not reach the inner leaves and the shrub will replace the burned ones. Gently brush the outside of the shrub to dislodge the spent foliage. Avoid the urge to shear them off. Instead, make sure the shrubs are watered regularly when there is no rainfall for four or more days and keep the roots mulched. Lightly apply granular tree and shrub fertilizer which will provide extra nutrition for boxwood using up reserves to regenerate foliage.
Vine for an ugly fence I would like to plant some Virginia creeper to cover an ugly fence and provide changing color with the seasons. Can you provide growing tips? K., Grosse Pointe Virginia creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia) is definitely a cover-up vine for an ugly fence and can provide beautiful fall color. It is easy to grow, being unparticular about soil and light conditions. Be aware that its dark
h beautiful d Organic e local c
blue to black berries are toxic to humans but attractive to birds. This leads to its less desirable characteristic. The birds distribute it everywhere and it becomes invasive as it colonizes in unwanted areas. Virginia creeper grows quickly and can cover a tree or a yard in a couple years if not religiously pruned annually. It binds itself to its host with tendrils that are strong and tough. Although quite pest resistant, it is vulnerable to scale insects and leafhoppers. You might consider alternatives and use them in combination to maximize your color and interest from early spring to late fall. Multiple varieties of clematis with early-, mid- and late-blooming times can combine with the five-leaf akebia (Akebia quinata) or trumpet honeysuckle (Lonicera sempervirens) to bring you leaf texture, blossom color, fragrance, and rapid coverage. The greater variety of plants will turn your ugly fence into a showplace.
Moss in garden beds Is natural green moss beneficial to gardens? Should it be removed? If you spread mulch in a flower and shrub garden, should
the moss be removed or covered? Is the moss beneficial to natural wooded areas? L.D., Clarkston The 12,000 varieties of moss are nature’s way of filling in bare spots in your garden that are shady, moist, acidic and low in fertility. It’s either that or weeds! You can remove it, but the moss will come back because you are only removing the outward symptom. Do not put mulch over it. Moss growing in the woods has had a symbiotic relationship with trees for millions of years. They share a very different compatibility than the moss and soil in your garden. Treat the cause of the moss by addressing its growing criteria. Check your tree canopy. It may be too thick and blocking sun necessary to evaporate excess moisture. Check your watering. Once you do apply 2 to 3 inches of mulch, only water 30 minutes once or twice a week if there is no rainfall. It allows the soil to dry out between waterings and encourages plants to develop deeper root systems. Amend the mossy areas with compost, and plant shade-loving perennials such as pulmonaria, hakone grass, or liriope and let them fill the space instead.
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MichiganGardener.com | July/August 2014 | Michigan Gardener
Have a question? Send it in! Go to MichiganGardener.com and click on “Submit a question”
Black gum flowers Though normally a late bloomer, our gum tree is exceptionally late this year and blooms seem very sparse. Is this due to our extreme winter? If so, will it come back next year or is the damage permanent? L.L., Grand Blanc Your tree is probably a black gum (Nyssa sylvatica), which is hardy to zone 4 or 5, native and tolerant of frozen ground. A sweet gum (Liquidambar styraciflua) is typically native to the southeastern U.S. A key difference is the sweet gum flower is insignificant and hardly noticeable whereas black gum has a flower and palmate glossy leaves. Black gum ranges from mid-Michigan and Ohio to southern Pennsylvania, as far east as the Carolinas and as far south as Louisiana and Florida. It blooms roughly May through June. Because this past winter was unexpectedly harsh and this spring was inordinately cool, flower tissue was frozen or chilled. This not only delayed bloom but limited the number. Assuming the upcoming winter is relatively “normal,” blooming should resume next season.
To help a marginal tree survive a potentially lethal winter, keep it unstressed by watering during periods of drought when there is no rainfall for more than five days. Add mulch to the base but keep it off the trunk and root flare. This insulates the soil and prevents excessive freeze and thaw during late winter. It also reduces moisture loss and keeps soil at an even temperature during drought conditions. Keep watering into fall when a tree is storing reserves for winter. It is difficult to wrap a mature tree with burlap like a shrub for winter protection. The next best thing is to provide consistent water and prevent moisture loss by mulching during the growing season.
Herbicide sprayed on hostas My husband accidentally sprayed lawn weed and feed (active ingredient: 2,4-D) on some of my hostas. Will that product kill my hostas? I didn’t know until it was too late to wash off the product. So far, they look OK. P., Orchard Lake This acid (2,4-D) comes in several forms, depending on what it must combine with. It kills broadleaf weeds by changing the way certain
Detroit Garden Works is proud to present the Seventh annual Garden Cruise, a tour of gardens designed, planted and/or inspired by Deborah Silver. The landscapes themselves are varied in style and approach, but all reflect an ownership for whom the beauty of a garden is an important part of life. Our most serious mission as a business is to foster the idea of stewardship of the environment—a duty The Greening of Detroit embraces every day. All proceeds will benefit the planting and educational programs of The Greening of Detroit.
tissue cells grow. Cells that carry water and nutrients will divide and grow without stopping. The plant basically grows itself to death. The product label does caution the user not to use it near desirable plants for that reason. Considered a systemic herbicide, 2,4-D is metabolized into the plant tissues. The phenoxy herbicides are one of the most widely used herbicides, being first registered in the U.S. in 1948. Lawn products that contain both a fertilizer, generally a urea-based nitrogen, and an herbicide, can be a two-edged sword. They provide a quick nitrogen fix to problem spots in a lawn and a weed killer that can be very problematic when overspray gets on desirable plants. Your hostas may not show any damage immediately because the herbicide operates systemically. The plant absorbs it through the foliage and it’s transported throughout the plant. Make sure the hostas get regular watering to help flush out any exposure to the herbicide. Be on the watch for leaves that become twisted, cupped or new growth that is distorted. Veins in the leaves will get thick and close together. The side of the plant closest to the lawn application will be the most
severely affected. If the damage is light, you can cut off the affected leaves and hope the rest of the plant grows normally. Otherwise, the plant may eventually die. The good news is that 2,4-D breaks down quickly in the soil. Answers provided by Beverly Moss, owner of Garden Rhythms.
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Michigan Gardener | July/August 2014 | MichiganGardener.com
healthy lawns Summer lawn questions and answers
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How high should I be cutting my lawn during the summer months? Mowing at 2-1/2 to 3-1/2 inches is recommended during the summer. A thicker lawn helps block out weeds compared to a closelymown, thin lawn. Another advantage is that grass roots will be deeper and larger in mass. When is the best time to cut my grass and should I water before I cut or after? The best time to mow your lawn is in the morning before the afternoon heat and wind arrives, then water afterward. If you’ve ever noticed tire tracks in the lawn before, they are most often associated with extreme water loss in the middle of the afternoon, especially when temperatures are in the 90s. The worse thing to do is mow your lawn when the wind is most active between 1:00 and 6:00 p.m. with temperatures in the 90s and to do so with a dull mower blade. The rapid evaporation from the grass could send it into dormancy, causing irregular yellowing throughout.
Seeing a lot of brown grass blades doesn’t mean you have a thatch problem. We highly recommend letting all the clippings decompose back in the soil since it promotes a rich organic soil. Real thatch is when you walk across your lawn and it feels like you are stepping on a carpet pad. caterpillars that chew on the grass. They typically show up twice a season and the damage they cause can be an issue. If you see the moths, a surface insecticide should be applied. It will control any eggs for a period of 4 to 6 weeks, although it will not prevent new moths from flying back in from the neighbor’s lawn. Don’t fret if you continue to see the moths flying after treating; it’s the eggs you are controlling.
I keep getting weeds and crabgrass along my curb and mailbox. I am seeing a lot of thatch in How do I prevent this from hapmy lawn. Should I de-thatch it? pening every year? Seeing a lot of brown grass blades Great question. The tendency is doesn’t mean you have a thatch to weed whack the grass too low. problem. We highly recommend Many times these areas aren’t waletting all the clippings decompose tered well, so the grass doesn’t grow back in the soil since it promotes much. The person using the string Steve a rich organic soil. Real thatch is trimmer wants to cut something, Martinko when you walk across your lawn and and they keep going lower and lower it feels like you are stepping on a carpet pad. so it looks uniform. If you can’t increase the That bouncy or cushy feeling is a good indicawatering to promote thicker grass there, then tor there is a lot of thatch below the growth. I would reduce string trimming to every othThat is the key: it is below the growth. Deer week during the summer. thatching will tear into live root and shoot tissue, making it difficult to remove the thatch Every year I have grub activity even without harming your healthy grass. The best though I treat for them. What am I doing thing to do is aerate the lawn, even if it means wrong? doing so twice a year. Keeping it watered very Grub control is best when it is timed durwell will also ensure earthworm activity, the ing the egg-hatching stage, which is late June most important component of thatch reducto mid-July. North of Saginaw, July to early tion. Earthworms will chew through decomAugust is best. Make sure to water in the posing thatch and, in the process, enrich the treatment very well. In order for the product soil over time. to work, it must be pushed down below the thatch layer where the grubs are feeding. If When is the best time to aerate a lawn? only 20 minutes of watering is performed, the Early to mid-fall. Your lawn thickens the insecticide may never reach past the thatch most in this time period, so aeration will help layer. Be sure to water for 30 to 40 minutes or you benefit from perfect growing conditions whatever the label requires. and also help your lawn recover from the tough summer months. What are those tiny tan-colored moths darting around and should I be conSteve Martinko is the owner cerned? of Contender’s Tree and Lawn Specialists They are sod webworm moths. They dein Oakland County, MI. posit eggs in the grass which become small
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Michigan Gardener | July/August 2014 | MichiganGardener.com
vegetable patch
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Back By Popular Demand…Daylily Dig! Saturday and Sunday, July 19-20, 9am-5pm Walk the field and choose your favorite daylilies! Our staff will dig and package your plants for you. You’ll find nearly every color of the rainbow, including gorgeous bicolored and eyed varieties. Potted daylilies and perennials of all types will also be available.
Plant vegetables among the flowers
T
here are vegetable gardens and there bers but are not good near potatoes, and peas are flower gardens and never the and beans appear to dislike gladiolus. twain shall meet. At least that is how Vegetables can certainly add some garit has always seemed. But why not blend the den interest when mixed among the flowers. two? Certainly there are advantages to havThink of the feathery foliage of carrot tops or ing separate vegetable and flower gardens, the color and curl of leaf lettuce and mustard but why not occasionally combine them? green varieties acting as a back drop to some There are advantages there as well. of our flowering plants or as a border to the Consider that the flowers may attract more garden. Consider the added color as various pollinators. Consider that the mixture of peppers come to maturity or a tomato plant flowers and vegetables may camouflage each begins to bear fruit. Maybe add some whimsy other from pests that would attack them. to the flower garden with purple kohlrabi, a Think about the possibility that they may achead of red cabbage, purple and white eggtually benefit each other in terms of growth plant, or some golden cauliflower scattered and health, or that they may provide addiabout. Kale comes in a variety of leaf shapes tional garden interest and beauty. and colors and can last until late in Why not plant vegetables in among fall to extend the life of the garden the flowers? as the summer flowers begin to Flowers, with their bright colors disappear. Look to the lovely colors and fragrances, attract a variety of of Swiss chard leaves and stalks for pollinators. These will benefit the adding some brightness to the garvegetables that require pollination den bed. Even trellising some of the by bees or other insects. Not only do vining plants such as cucumbers or flowers attract pollinators, but other pole beans can create an interesting beneficial insects as well. These ben- Mary backdrop to the flower garden. eficial bugs often prey on the critters Gerstenberger Flowers and vegetables can mix! that would damage our vegetable Be creative. Save on space. Do someplants, keeping those insects under control. thing different. Make your gardens an exIn some cases, the scent of the flower will pression of both health and beauty. Change often mask the vegetable from the unwanted perspective and experiment a little. There pests, providing a “camouflage” effect. is no end to what you can achieve when you Companion planting is a popular topic in plant veggies among the flowers. the vegetable and flower garden. Companion Mary Gerstenberger is the Consumer Horplants may provide benefits to one or both of ticulture Coordinator at the Michigan State the plants involved. Nasturtium and mariUniversity Extension in Macomb County, MI. gold are considered beneficial to a variety of For gardening information from MSU, visit vegetables for enhancing their growth and www.migarden.msu.edu. repelling a variety of insects. It is good to check companion plants for their likes and Call the toll-free Michigan State University dislikes, as some flowers are also thought to Lawn and Garden Hotline at 888-678-3464 be detrimental to certain vegetables. For exfor answers to your gardening questions. ample, sunflowers may be helpful to cucum-
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Van Atta’s has one of the largest selections of garden accents, trees, garden toys, annuals, shrubs and perennials in Southeastern Michigan. We grow an enormous variety of perennial species and cultivars. There’s a good chance we have that one plant you’ve been searching for or the garden ornament that will set your yard apart. Come on out and stroll our grounds. You’ll be amazed at what you’ll find, as well as the friendly service and expert advice you will receive.
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Michigan Gardener | July/August 2014 | MichiganGardener.com
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• If plants are drying out too quickly, move them into just a little bit more shade. If you’re going on vacation and nobody will water, give your plants a good soaking and move them into the shade. It’s not a perfect solution, but it may keep them alive until you get back. • Hanging baskets and containers need more attention, because they dry out faster and need to be watered once a day and fed at least every week. If it is very hot, containers may need to be watered twice a day. • Fertilize regularly according to the directions. Water thoroughly to promote deep root growth, and pinch off old flowers on plants like geraniums to encourage new flowering. • An area that used to be full sun, where marigolds and salvia once thrived, may now be part or full shade where wax begonias and torenia will be happier. The opposite may also be true: a neighbor may have
lost an ash tree, and now there’s full sun in a previously shady area.
Houseplants • If your houseplants are vacationing outside this summer, they are probably enjoying it and growing lush and green. Monitor water and fertilizer. Plants outside will dry out faster than when in the house. Unless the plant is growing out of its pot, wait until late August to repot. • Use a granular systemic insecticide every 6 weeks to protect your plants from pests during the growing season and prevent them from coming into the house this fall.
Lawn • Remember to keep your mower blades sharp and mow high. Spot treat any weed problems. If the weather is hot and dry, water lightly and frequently, daily if possible. Once you start watering, a regular watering program should be continued.
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The garden is meant to be enjoyed yearround. As gardeners, we have a tendency to concentrate our efforts on spring and summer, often neglecting the fall and winter season. Plan for all seasons and you’ll be rewarded with a garden to enjoy every day of the year. There are many plants that make the winter garden attractive, usually from the form and shape of evergreens. But there are also plenty of deciduous (non-evergreen) plants offering winter interest with their twisting and contorted branches, and stems that turn bright colors in the cold. Consider red-twig dogwood, coral bark Japanese maples, contorted filbert and contorted black locust, which offer unique winter silhouettes and wonderful nesting places for birds. There are several new varieties of evergreens that change color from lush green to electric yellow through the winter months, as well as plants that produce berries in the fall and hold onto them in the winter. These plants offer food for wildlife and add great color contrast against the white of the winter snow. There are also plants like witch hazel, with flowers that bloom in yellow, orange or red in late winter to early spring while the garden still sleeps. Or hellebore, an evergreen perennial that only grows about a foot and a half tall and begins blooming while there is still snow on the ground; usually, March, April and May. Flower color on these beauties ranges from white, pink, and red to yellow and purple.
Most plants bloom in the spring, so planning the garden for spring beauty is relatively easy. There are lots of different choices, including a wide variety of flower color, form, texture, height and fragrance. In the summer, as many of those spring varieties start to fade, many plants are just coming into their own. Coneflowers, hardy hibiscus, black-eyed Susan, tall phlox, and hydrangeas are just a few to consider. In the fall, when we’re preparing for the coming winter, some plants are just beginning to show their prime, like fall anemones, asters and mums. Flowering trees like the Franklin tree (Franklinia) bloom in the fall. Franklins feature large, pure white flowers held above glossy green leaves that turn electric red as the fall temperatures cool. Don’t forget Japanese beautyberry (Callicarpa) that blooms in the fall. It’s a beautiful plant with its shiny purple berries along branches that will turn a yellow color. It’s a perfect complement to the Halloween season. A well-planned garden contains all of these elements. As a general rule, at least 50 percent of the plants should fall within the spring- to summer-flowering categories. Twenty-five to 40 percent of the plants should fall within the summer to fall peak times, with the remaining 10 to 25 percent of plants selected for winter interest. Start with a plan and implement it over time, and you’ll be rewarded with a garden to enjoy every day of the year.
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MichiganGardener.com | July/August 2014 | Michigan Gardener
Hydrangea Headquarters
Perennials
Roses • Prune faded flowers so new ones will replace them. Prune to the first set of five leaflets. Remember to cut on an angle and use bypass pruners. Why bypass pruners? These give a clean cut, while anvil pruners pinch the stems. Fertilize your roses and watch for black spot and powdery mildew. If insects are munching on your roses in full force now, follow a regular schedule of preventative spraying for your roses. • Consider replacing tall, gangly, short bloomtime roses with shrub roses. They stay shorter, need much less pruning, are more diseaseresistant than regular roses, and provide a great splash of color in the landscape.
Shrubs & Trees • Prune spring-flowering shrubs early in
• Your vegetable garden should be growing strong. Continue regular weeding and monitor plants for pests. Insects and critters may be sizing up your garden for a banquet. • There are a number of animal repellents on the market, and for best results, alternate between treatments to confuse those bunnies. Replenish after a rain.
Vines • Prune spring-flowering clematis this month. Make sure you’re not pruning your summer- and fall-blooming clematis, or you’ll remove potential flower buds. • Vines will grow quite vigorously with the heat of summer. Every few weeks, make sure to train stray tendrils to keep them controlled.
• Different varieties • Care and pruning • Tips and tricks
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• Keep garden beds free of weeds or they’ll compete with plants for water and nutrients. • A 2- to 3-inch layer of mulch helps conserve moisture and keeps weeds down. • The good thing about perennials is that they do not need a lot of maintenance. Staking tall perennials may be necessary. Remove spent flowers when needed to keep plants looking their best. • Water if extremely dry and mulch around the plants. Remember to keep the mulch away from hostas because slugs like to hide there during the day. Monitor the area for weeds and insects. • Fertilize perennials regularly and water deeply but infrequently for best root growth. A perennial’s roots live through the winter, so bigger roots now means a bigger plant next year.
Vegetables
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• Start harvesting herbs and using them in your cooking. Clipping a few sprigs every few days will encourage more growth.
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the month to shape them. Look for insects chewing on the foliage. Inspect trees for insects and disease. Also look for any signs of mechanical and animal damage. • This is also a good time to use an organic fertilizer to help with the plant’s overall health and flower production. Organic fertilizer breaks down with microbial action, so there’s no danger of burning plants if it’s used properly. Plus, nutrients will be there when needed to produce better blooms for next year. • If you’re tired of shrubs that only give you a few weeks of beauty and are otherwise an unremarkable green, this may be the time to plant something different. Shrubs with glossy green, bright chartreuse, or rich burgundy foliage are available. Check out the new varieties of sumac, elderberry, ninebark, and viburnum for both blooms and leaf beauty.
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The best time to water the lawn is at midday when the heat is the greatest, since this reduces heat stress. • Whether you choose to water your lawn or not is a personal decision. It is okay not to water at all. However, if the lawn receives no water for 4 to 6 weeks and temperatures are high, apply about 1 to 1-1/2 inches of water at a single shot to prevent crown desiccation. If the crowns become desiccated, the grass dies. Remember, if you are not watering, do not fertilize.
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Michigan Gardener | July/August 2014 | MichiganGardener.com
Hops: Useful for both herbal crafts and brewing
This hops vine is growing on the corner of a shed.
Hops cones are ready to harvest in September.
ops (Humulus lupulus) is a plant out of the sunlight and then stored in airtight whose name is common to brewziplock bags in the freezer when completely ers, crafters, and backyard naturaldried, as they lose their potency quickly. You ists. In Michigan it is a hardy perennial vine, can hang the hops branches to dry in a dark, growing vertically to 25 feet in a single season airy location or pick the fresh hops cones and dying back to the ground in the winter. right off the vine and lay them on a screen to When the spring sun warms the ground, it dry before storing in the freezer. will begin growing up to a foot a day. Thus, For the naturalists among us, the hops it is a necessity to have a strong, solid trellis, vines are host plants to the Comma brushshed, wire, or fence for it to grow on. It grows footed butterflies. When the adults are at rest from rhizomes or root pieces. with their wings folded back, they look like There are several varieties of hops to purbrown, dried up leaves and are really hard to chase. The plants take a couple of years to find, but are worth the effort. establish themselves and then they produce Herbal crafts and uses a large number of vines and flowers. Hops Throughout history hops have been used like well-drained, rich soil, preferably with a as a flavoring and stabilizing agent in beers. southern exposure. They love sun. The hops Their bitter, tangy taste adds so much flavor vines we grow are typically female plants beand aroma. The hops have also been used cause they produce the flowers. in other beverages and herbal medications. The vine is pretty, with heart-shaped leaves. Hops are known to treat restlessness and inIts branches cling to you when you touch them, somnia. Specific chemical components act on causing some people’s arms and hands to dethe human body and are helpful to a better velop a nasty red rash if handled. Long sleeves life. A pillow filled with and heavy gloves are necessary hops next to your head when picking or pruning. The at night is a popular oldplant flowers in late summer time fix for sleeplessness. and is ready to pick for drying A warm bag of hops next in late September. to the skin is said to help Its papery fruiting cones, with toothaches and nercalled strobiles, are green to vous symptoms. gold and look like fragile pine Our popular sleep pilcones. The cones will have a low mixture contains dry touch and be filled with Jean & Roxanne equal parts of dried hops, yellow-gold pollen when Riggs lavender, and chamomile picked. They must be dried
flowers, and lemon balm (for relaxation), rosemary (to keep evil dreams away), and rose petals (for love). You can make small bags of this mixture and sew them into teddy bears or stuffed animals for children, or use small muslin bags or pillows for grown-ups. Note: Eating or drinking hops has a toxic affect on dogs, and is not recommended. Making a hops wreath is easy to do in the fall. You will need a wire wreath ring, a spool of craft wire, and long, fresh pieces of hop vines with the hops flowers and leaves still on. Wrap the vines in the circle and fasten them on with the wire, making sure it is thickly wrapped, as the vines will dry and shrink slightly on the wreath. Hang on a nail or hook and enjoy in the kitchen, bar or den. Long vines of hops also look outstanding draped on the mantel, and small pieces look nice in herbal wreaths.
H
Planting You purchase hops’ rhizomes in early spring. Ask your local garden center if they carry hops. It will be hard to find a growing plant in a pot since they get huge quickly. Here are a few of our favorite hops varieties, and their best uses: • ‘Cascade’: Very aromatic; used in pale ales, porters and lagers. • ‘Nugget’: Vigorous, highly productive vine with lots of cones for brewing or craft purP h oto g r a ph s by J e a n a n d R ox a n n e R i g g s
poses; high in bitters. • ‘Brewers Gold’: Mildly bitter with overtones of spice and fruit; heirloom from 1919. • ‘Kent Golding’: English aroma hop with a delicate flavor; used in English ales and lagers. • ‘Willamette’: Used as a fine finishing or allpurpose hop; disease resistant. Digging up rhizomes from your own hops plant takes little effort. The plant should be at least four years old before trying this, as it will mess up your young vines. In May when it warms up, look at the root mass at the bottom of the vine. Cut off and dig a small piece from the side of the root mass. It is quite a shallow-rooted plant and should come out easily. Relocate that rhizome to another area or share it with a friend. Starting a hops farm on some acreage could be a lucrative and exciting venture. We came across Michigan State’s website devoted to farming hops: www.hops.msu.edu/. This website is a big help to someone who might be interested in growing hops commercially. What a great idea if you have some fertile land to farm, love hops, and need an adventure. We have a wonderful wine and hops trail in Michigan that starts just north of Saginaw and Bay City on the sunrise side of the state following Lake Huron. Visit www.sunrisesidewineandhopstrail.com for more information. Jean and Roxanne Riggs operated Sunshine Farm and Garden in Oakland County, MI and now enjoy retirement up north.
MichiganGardener.com | July/August 2014 | Michigan Gardener
15
Become a better gardener
Oakland Community College has classes for you! IN�DEPTH – Just a sampling of the classes OCC offers: Introduction to Ornamental Horticulture Plant Identification • Soil and Soil Fertility Flowering Annuals and Perennials Turf grass • Garden Design & Maintenance Insect Pests & Disease Identification Plus many more!
Long vines of hops are used for wreath-making.
Supplies to make a hops wreath: a 12-inch wire wreath ring and spool of craft wire.
AFFORDABLE – A typical class is 3 hours per week for 15 weeks: a total of 45 hours. At roughly $200, that is less than $5 per hour!
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Wrap the fresh vines of hops around the wreath ring and fasten them with craft wire.
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www.wojos.com The finished hops wreath is a wonderful fall season ornament.
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Michigan Gardener | July/August 2014 | MichiganGardener.com
Oakland County Market 2350 Pontiac Lake Road, Waterford, MI 48328 248.858.5495 • DestinationOakland.com
The Plant Lover’s Guide to Sedums by Brent Horvath
Farmer’s Market January to April: Saturday Only: 8:30am - 2:30pm May to December: Tuesday, Thursday & Saturday: 7am - 1:30pm
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A four-part series written by plant lovers for plant lovers, The Plant Lover’s Guides celebrate some of the most beloved ornamental plants and provide growing information, plant profiles, and design ideas. Sedum breeder and nurseryman Brent Horvath dispenses growing tips and advice for using these rewarding plants in The Plant Lover’s Guide to Sedums (Timber Press, 230 pages, $24.95). Sedums are fabulously versatile plants, perfect for borders, groundcovers and more. With their flamboyant flower heads, graphic shapes, and succulent foliage, these hardy plants thrive in almost any climate and with almost no attention. Their colorful leaves cover the spectrum—from icy whites and blues to rich fuchsia and deep purple. Horvath’s guide features 150 sedums with full color photos alongside in-depth profiles and landscape and design uses. The Plant Lover’s Guide to Sedums is an easy-to-read book for the gardener looking for an authoritative reference to these great plants.
Digital Plant Photography by Adrian Davies
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Have you ever wondered how to get the best from your camera when taking photographs of plants in the garden? Digital Plant Photography (Bloomsbury Publishing, 176 pages, $29.95) is aimed both at photographers wishing to use plants as a rich source of subject matter, and at gardeners who want to record plants in a meaningful yet attractive way. Numerous practical skills are clearly explained, from basic photography to more complex time-lapse and highspeed techniques. The author discusses the confusing symbols and menu choices that come along with a digital camera. Unlike some other guides, this book does not focus solely on flowers; equal prominence is given to seeds, leaves, pollen, wood and trunks. Containing 450 images with substantial captions, the book strikes a balance between the technical side and the compositional. Gardeners who are amateur photographers receive the professional tips they need to take successful photos.
Backyard Foraging by Ellen Zachos Discover food in the plant life all around you. Your backyard, front yard, or a nearby park or vacant lot might be rich with edible possibilities. In Backyard Foraging (Storey Publishing, 239 pages, $16.95), Ellen Zachos, an experienced foraging guide, safely leads you through harvesting etiquette, plant identification, and tips on how to eat the leaves, flowers, nuts, seeds, roots, and mushrooms that are available. This full-color guide teaches readers how to avoid foraging hazards while being mindful of plant welfare. Zachos introduces 65 familiar plants that “You Didn’t Know You Could Eat,” such as the smelly ginkgo nut or the ubiquitous hosta. After the harvest, new foragers will learn to preserve their spoils through various methods, such as canning, dehydrating, or alcohol infusing. A chapter of recipes provides immediate gratification to those ready to feast. Backyard Foraging is the guide to eating locally the fun, safe, and free way.
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Michigan Gardener | July/August 2014 | MichiganGardener.com
Eric Hofley / Michigan Gardener
This tropical planting includes brugmansia, red-leaved hibiscus, and soft burgundy canna leaves.
Flickr / Scott.Zona
‘Ecuador Pink’
Eric Hofley / Michigan Gardener
Brugmansia anchors this trio of containers.
Eric Hofley / Michigan Gardener
Brugmansias in containers flank this entrance.
MichiganGardener.com | July/August 2014 | Michigan Gardener
19
Angel’s Trumpet
Brugmansia I
n the plant world, “tropical” simply refers to any plant that is indigenous to a tropical environment. Although Michigan is certainly not tropical, there are thousands of tropical plants that can be enjoyed by a Michigan gardener. The tropicals we refer to as “houseplants” include the plethora of foliage plants that can be kept indoors year-round to beautify our homes, clean the air, and provide us with some extra oxygen as well. Then there are the tropical fruits such as citrus, coffee, bananas, and figs. By moving these outside in the summer and back inside in the winter, they can reward the gardener with the spectacle of fruit production: some edible and some just fun to nurture. Many tropicals offer beautiful flowers: hibiscus, mandevilla, jasmine, gardenia, and bougainvillea are some of the most popular flowering tropicals we can enjoy. But perhaps the
most spectacular and easy-to-grow 20 feet tall and create an unforgetflowering tropical is brugmansia, tably dramatic effect. Most gardenalso called angel’s trumpet. With ers can remember the first time they minimal care, this “tree” can prosaw a substantial angel’s trumpet duce enormous, fragrant, trumpetin bloom: usually in Hawaii, Calishaped flowers all summer long. fornia, or Florida or perhaps right The “trumpet” flowers are usuhere in Michigan. They are heavy ally over a foot long and downward feeders; frequent fertilization is imfacing. Flowers may be single or portant to promote flower producdouble and come in a broad range George tion. A water-soluble fertilizer can of colors, including white, orange, Papadelis be used once or twice a week; more yellow, peach, and pink. The long, complicated regimes that include pointed leaves are usually a medium green time-release fertilizers and foliar feeding can but some cultivars offer beautiful variegated be developed for potentially greater results. leaves of green and white or green and gold. Brugmansia is often confused with datura Plants can grow astonishingly fast, adding which is also called angel’s trumpet. Bruganother dimension to the novelty of ownmansia will grow into a woody tree while ing a brugmansia. They can begin producing datura is a smaller (3- to 4-foot) herbaceous flowers when they are just 2 to 3 feet tall. In shrub. Datura is easily grown from seed while 3 to 5 years, unpruned plants can grow 15 to brugmansia is usually propagated from cuttings. Unlike brugmansia, datura can self-sow in the garden to return year after year. But the most easily distinguishable feature is the direction of the flowers: brugmansia flowers hang down while datura flowers stand upright.
Varieties The list of brugmansia cultivars is endless. Many are simply sold as white, salmon, pink, etc. Over the years, however, several cultivars have been more readily available and therefore more popular. The common pink cultivar is ‘Ecuador Pink’ and the common orange/ salmon cultivar is ‘Charles Grimaldi.’ ‘Miner’s Claim’ has gorgeous gold and green varie-
Flickr / Scott.Zona
‘Charles Grimaldi’
Botanical name: Brugmansia (broog-MAN-see-ah) Plant type: Tropical small tree (a tender perennial) Plant size: Eventually up to 15-20 feet tall, depending on pruning and overwintering techniques Habit: Small tree Hardiness: Must be overwintered indoors or an attached garage Flower color: White, orange, yellow, peach, pink Flower size: Up to 12 inches long Bloom period: Summer Leaf color: Medium green; some have variegated leaves of green and white or green and gold Leaf size: Up to 10 inches long Light: Sun or part sun Soil: Moist, well drained Uses: Containers, specimen patio plant
gated leaves accented by peach-colored flowers. The other common variegated leaf form is ‘Sunset,’ whose green and white leaves are accented by white flowers. The double-flowering forms are more difficult to find and in most cases, they will produce single flowers until plants are mature.
Growing tips and options Brugmansia can be grown from seed but most are grown from cuttings. Plants are typically purchased from a garden center at continued on next page
Flickr / Ian Cooke
‘Miner’s Claim’
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’Sunset’ has green and white variegated leaves, accented by creamy white flowers. continued from previous page a stage of maturity that allows flowers to be enjoyed the first season. Grow them in sun to part sun (at least 4 hours of direct sun per day), keeping in mind that larger plants grown in sun will require more water than plants grown in shade. Most gardeners will grow angel’s trumpets in containers. To keep a brugmansia from year to year, it will have to be moved to a warm place during the winter. Plastic, fiber, or composite containers will make this easier. Plant “caddies” are wheeled devices on which brugmansia pots may be grown to simplify moving them from one place to another. Larger plants will be more susceptible to blowing over and dehydration, so larger pots are advisable. A weight in the container bottom will also help (brick paver, etc.). The more cumbersome task of planting them in beds has its advantages. It will allow the development of a more substantial root system that should accelerate plant growth. Roots in the ground will also provide anchoring that could keep plants from blowing over all summer. The extra soil will also help keep plants hydrated through the summer heat. Brugmansia will eventually require some pruning. Pruning can facilitate movement of your plant through doorways, but more importantly, pruning can help shape a vigorous or unbalanced plant. Brugmansias are not prone to any diseases, but they are quite prone to insects and spider mites. Spider mites are difficult to see, so infestations can go unnoticed. Very fine webbing or tiny, slow-moving spiders are your
clue. Once spider mites are diagnosed, frequent applications of insecticidal soap or your favorite miticide will be necessary. Angel’s trumpets can also fall prey to aphids, but once again, insecticidal soap is the simple solution. Brugmansia belongs to a group referred to as the nightshade family. Like many other garden plants, the plant parts are poisonous if eaten.
Overwintering Plants moved indoors will need maximum sunlight to minimize leaf loss and shock. A bright room or greenhouse is ideal but an attached “warm” garage or basement can suffice. Lower light conditions will reduce the demand for water and will usually send brugmansias into dormancy. They can lose all their leaves and perhaps a few stems. However, these plants are very resilient. Severelyshocked or cold-damaged plants will usually regrow leaves and stems; sometimes this regrowth only occurs at the base of the trunk. Always avoid freezing temperatures. I know of at least one local gardener whose brugmansia collection is “inserted” in beds each spring. The plants are kept in very large pots (25- to 35-gallon) that are buried in the ground. These angel’s trumpets grow to at least 15 feet tall, creating a canopy of cascading, fragrant flowers in an array of colors. The effect is a sight to behold here in Michigan. The potted plants are removed from the ground each fall and transported to a greenhouse for overwintering. George Papadelis is the owner of Telly’s Greenhouse in Troy, Shelby Township, and Pontiac, MI.
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Precipitation May 2014
Normal Actual Monthly Monthly Detroit 3.38 4.87 Flint 3.08 7.25 Lansing 3.36 4.24
May 2013 Deviation from Normal +1.49 +4.17 +0.88
2014 Year to Date: Jan 1 - May 31
Normal Actual Yr. to Date Yr. to Date 12.54 14.67 10.99 14.95 11.57 11.21
Detroit Flint Lansing
Deviation from Normal +2.13 +3.96 -0.36
Normal Actual
Monthly Monthly 3.38 2.54 3.08 4.09 3.36 3.95
Deviation from Normal -0.84 +1.01 +0.59
2013 Year Total: Jan 1 - May 31
Normal Actual
Yr. to Date 12.54 10.99 11.57
Yr. to Date 14.85 16.76 18.00
Deviation from Normal +2.31 +5.77 +6.43
State Crushing L a n d s c a p e s u p p Ly
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Temperature May 2014
soil • sand • mulch • stone • gravel
May 2013
Normal ACTUAL Avg. High Avg. High 69.9 71.5 Detroit Flint 68.5 70.8 Lansing 68.8 69.6
Deviation from Normal +1.6 +2.3 +0.8
ormal ACTUAL N Avg. High Avg. High 69.9 75.3 68.5 74.7 68.8 73.3
Deviation from Normal +5.4 +6.2 +4.5
Normal ACTUAL Avg. Low Avg. Low Detroit 49.4 51.3 Flint 55.2 48.6 Lansing 46.7 47.3
Deviation from Normal +1.9 -6.6 +0.6
Normal ACTUAL Avg. Low Avg. Low 49.4 52.0 55.2 49.2 46.7 49.8
Deviation from Normal +2.6 -6.0 +3.1
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Data courtesy National Weather Service
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Sandie Parrott
Andrea Ann Hupfel is a hands-on plantswoman who has built glorious gardens around her property
A
ndrea Ann Hupfel calls herself, “The gal that didn’t want to get dirt under her nails.” Now an accomplished gardener with several stunning gardens and landscaping around her property, the do-it-yourself Hupfel says, “I’m lucky now if I can get the dirt OUT of my nails!” Her journey didn’t begin with gardening; it was the last thing on her mind. “I was too busy with bare necessities,” like raising her three children. Andrea and her late husband Joe purchased their Romeo property in 1965. At the time it was backed by woods and the front had vegetation (weeds) up to her chest. “Needless to say, we knew we would have a lot of work,” said Hupfel. They bought it for the lay of the land and to raise horses, but horses never happened. In 1968 they built the house for their growing Sandie family. “We sold our original house and bought a Parrott trailer which we put in front of our new house so we wouldn’t waste time driving. We hired a rough carpentry crew, drywall person, and bricklayer. Joe did the plumbing, electrical, finish carpentry, floors and so many other things. My job consisted of painting, staining, using the band saw, jig
saw and saber saw to make shutters, railings, and a front drive gate. Later, I even did some brick work inside,” recalled Hupfel. Today, people actually stop to smell the roses in her entry garden at the front of the house. “The first garden I started was a walk-through garden as you approach the front door. I had a few roses, but I wanted a garden with different trees and shrubs, and I was going to get rid of the roses. Don’t know how it happened, but there are now 50 rose bushes in this garden with most of the fragrant ones near the walk,” she laughed. A do-it-yourself attitude includes equipment. “My husband Joe was never a gardener, but he would help me with what he could. He used to laugh and say, ‘I buy her the best equipment.’” Hupfel wanted a perennial garden. She knew it would be larger than her first one, so it needed some hardscaping. “My husband and I built a dry riverbed with a dry waterfall of rocks. He bought a full-size, front-end loader with a detachable backhoe. He went up and down the road and picked up large boulders. We attached rope to the loader and lowered the boulders carefully in place,” Hupfel described.
A peaceful fern garden—Andrea’s favorite. People are most interested in the plant with the red berry on top of each leaf (at lower left): goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis). This garden contains choice plants: Trillium underwoodii, with mottled foliage and a dark purple flower; Epimedium stelluatum, topped with star-shaped fairy wings; Paris polyphylla, with unusual petals and its whisker-like yellow anthers and dark red stigma; Syneilesis aconitifolia and its shredded umbrella leaves; Paeonia obovata, a woodland peony with pink single petals and fall seed pods filled with bright red and black seeds. White baneberry (Actaea pachypoda) was found growing naturally in her woods. In fall, its white flowers turn into white seeds with black eyes, giving it the common name of doll’s eyes. Her favorite ferns are lady ferns (Athyrium) and wood ferns (Dryopteris). After finishing the dry riverbed and waterfall, Joe sold the large front-end loader and bought Andrea Ann a smaller frontend loader, again with a detachable backhoe. “It is so much easier on the grass and makes gardening easier,” she enthused. “When I finally started planting in our blue clay I did large pocket plantings and mixed in a lot of compost and Canadian peat.” Hupfel talked about pruning her white pine trees. “When our daughter was in elementary school we gave her money for arbor day and she was supposed to bring home spruce seedlings. Well, they ran out of spruces and gave her white pine text continued on page 24
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Andrea Ann Hupfel
Sandie Parrott
To the left of the house is one of Hupfel’s favorite trees: a weeping mulberry (Morus alba ‘Pendula’) that got a good pruning before the leaves came out. Branches on this tree will wrap around other branches, so pruning before the leaves come out makes it easier. The dry riverbed and part of the dry waterfall is a prominent feature of the garden. Blue clay dug out was used as a berm and part of the dry waterfall. Trees were pocket planted with amended soil. Hupfel said, “They don’t even know they are planted in blue clay!”
“When our daughter was in elementary school, she was supposed to buy spruce seedlings for Arbor Day; they ran out and gave her white pine seedlings instead. Now how do you keep a white pine small? I started cutting the candles from day one. This tree used to be in the shape of a 14-foot bear sitting on his haunches with a pointed hat and a little ball on top. From a very tall ladder, it now takes 3 to 4 hours per year to prune each white pine tree into ball-shaped topiaries,” explained Hupfel.
Sandie Parrott
This shady gazebo was built by Andrea’s late husband. Two fiveleaf akebia vines (Akebia quinata ‘Purple Bouquet’) have clusters of small purple and white flowers in the spring. In fall it is cut to about 12 inches so it doesn’t tear the gazebo apart. In the following spring, dead vines are removed and the plant regrows to the top again.
Sandie Parrott
Hupfel loves her front-end loader, which is stored in a quaint weathered barn. To decorate around the barn, she wanted an oldfashioned flower, so she chose hollyhocks that reseed in different colors. The owl was carved from a tree they had removed. Hupfel painted the freshly-carved wood black, then dry brushed it with taupe to make it look weathered.
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Michigan Gardener | July/August 2014 | MichiganGardener.com
Sandie Parrott
Sandie Parrott
The perennial hillside is graced by 35 daylily varieties, and the Japanese blood grass at left (Imperata cylindrica ‘Red Baron’) has constant color all season.
Andrea Ann Hupfel welcomes visitors through an entrance arbor built by her late husband, Joe. The left side has an asparagus fern vine (Asparagus verticillatus) with fragrant white flowers in spring and bright red berries in late summer. Sweet autumn clematis (Clematis terniflora) is on the right, fall-blooming with small, sweet-scented white flowers on a vigorous vine.
Sandie Parrott
The fire pit with patio and the waterfall were built five years ago. Around the patio is ever-blooming verbena in memory of Hupfel’s friend Rosemary who gave them to her. To keep the planting around the waterfall simple (so as not to distract attention from the beautiful woods), Hupfel planted low-spreading juniper (Juniperus conferta ‘Blue Pacific’) around the sides of the falls and staggered 13 Heritage river birches (Betula nigra ‘Cully’) to make it look like they grew there naturally. continued from previous page seedlings instead. Now how do you keep a white pine small? They can easily reach 50 feet at the base. I started cutting the candles from day one. When they became large, my husband had to take me up in the loader bucket to prune. This finally got to be too much, so I started taking out branches. This year it took between 3 to 4 hours to prune each white pine.” Hupfel’s favorite garden is her fern garden. She said, “It
Andrea Ann Hupfel
“I think the Russian sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia), with its light, airy, violet blooms (left side of picture), makes a good textural combination with bear’s breeches (Acanthus mollis) with purple and white flowers. The globe amaranth (Gomphrena globosa) is so colorful, with dark orange balls that dry perfectly. And you can’t beat the red hibiscus ‘Lord Baltimore’ for making a great show,” Hupfel described. takes the least amount of work, is always cool and it is so peaceful there.” It is situated under a large willow tree and has a small pool that fairies seem to visit regularly. A large spring-fed pond anchors the backyard. To Andrea’s delight, a waterfall was added more recently. She is still planting a marginal garden in the top pond, which will help the ecosystem clean the spring-fed pond. Hupfel talked about other additions: “The upper pond was made so small children (her seven grandchildren) could safely play on top or in the water-
falls. I had a dive rock incorporated on the side for more fun.” “My gardens are a lot of work to say the least, but as I finish working for the day I look around to appreciate my beautiful surroundings and have a feeling of peace and serenity. My daughter says I started gardening because my children were grown and I needed something to take care of. Maybe so,” she smiled. Sandie Parrott is a freelance garden writer and blogger, living and chasing weeds in Oakland County, Michigan.
MichiganGardener.com | July/August 2014 | Michigan Gardener
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July / August / September
July H The Basics of Landscape Design Sat, Jul 5, 10am, all locations. At English Gardens. FREE. www.EnglishGardens.com. H Bonsai Workshop Sat, Jul 5, 1pm, Troy. At Telly’s. $35. Hands-on workshop. Learn all the steps of creating your very own bonsai. Preregistration required. www.tellys.com, 248-689-8735. Annual Plant Sale Sun, Jul 6, 9am-1pm, Ypsilanti. By Ypsilanti Garden Club at Senior & Community Ctr. Sun & shade plants, yard sale. www.ypsilantigardenclub.org. H Kid’s Workshop Tue, Jul 8, 10am, all locations. At English Gardens. $10. Plant a butterfly garden. Register: www.EnglishGardens. com. Clarkston Garden Walk Wed, Jul 9, Noon-8pm, Clarkston. Clarkston Farm & Garden Club at 6 area gardens. $18. Featuring art & music. www.clarkstongarden.org, 248-620-2984. 40th Annual Troy Garden Walk Wed, Jul 9, 9:30am-3pm & 5pm-8:30pm, Troy. Troy Garden Club at 7 private gardens & Troy Historic Village. $10 advance. $15 day of. Rain/shine. www.TroyGardenClubMI.com, 248-540-4249. 21st Annual Garden Walk Wed, Jul 9, 9am-4pm, Northville. By Country Garden Club of Northville at Mill Race Village & 6 private gardens. $10. Rain or shine. Music, vendors & more. 248-380-8881, www.cgcnv.org. Flower Arranging Seminar Thu, Jul 10, 10am, Rochester Hills. By Rochester Garden Club at Rochester Hills Museum. $10. Includes refreshments. Featuring the work of floral designer Patricia York. 586-336-3239. Daylily Show Sat, Jul 12, Grand Rapids. By Grand Valley Daylily Society at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. Growing tips, arrangements & more. www.meijergardens.org. H Garden Party & Daylily Dig Sat, Jul 12, & Sun, Jul 13, 9am-6pm, Waterford. At Merrittscape. You pick ‘em, we dig ‘em. 1000’s of plants. 248-681-7955. H Low Maintenance Gardening Tips Sat, Jul 12, 10am, all locations. At English Gardens. FREE. www.EnglishGardens.com. H Succulents in Containers Sat, Jul 12, 1-2:30pm, Tipton. At Hidden Lake Gardens. $15. Containers for indoors & out. Register: 517-431-2060. South Lyon Area Garden Walk Sat, Jul 12, South Lyon. By Four Seasons Garden Club of South Lyon at 6 area gardens. $10. Walk begins at the South Lyon Library. 248-437-5523, 248-437-5405. H Brick Pavers, Walls & Steps Sat, Jul 12, 10am, Washington. At Rocks ‘N’ Roots. FREE. Rain or shine. 586-752-4900.
For information about Public Gardens, please visit MichiganGardener.com. Click on "Resources" then "Public Gardens." H Bonsai Workshop Sat, Jul 12, 1pm, Pontiac. At Telly’s at Goldner Walsh. $35. Hands-on workshop. Learn all the steps of creating your very own bonsai. Pre-registration required. www.tellys.com, 248-724-2300. H Toad Stools & Toad Houses Sat, Jul 12, 10am-12:30pm, Fenton. At Heavenly Scent Herb Farm. $87.75. Create 3 toad stool structures using fortified concrete & a rhubarb impression. Dress for mess. 810-629-9208. H LACASA’s Garden Tour Weekend Sat, Jul 12, & Sun, Jul 13, 9am-4pm, Livingston County. By LACASA at 12 area gardens. $20. Scavenger hunt, raffles & more. Proceeds benefit abused victims of violence. www.lacasacenter.org. Tea Thyme in the Garden Sun, Jul 13, Lapeer. By Lapeer Co. MG Association at The Display Gardens on Suncrest. Fundraiser to support the garden for the next year. www.lc-mga.org. 18th Annual Garden Walk Sun, Jul 13, 1-5pm, Ludington. By Mason County Garden Club at various private local gardens. $10. Tickets available at The Giving Tree, Snyders Shoes or Orchard Market. 2014 Summer Garden Tour Sun, Jul 13, 10am-5pm, Fenton & Linden. Fenton Open Gate Garden Club at 7 Gardens in the Fenton & Linden area. $10. Skilled gardeners on hand to answer questions. 810-240-4321. H Garden Delight Tours Tue, Jul 15, & Wed, Jul 16, 11am-1pm, Fenton. At Heavenly Scent Herb Farm. $28.75. Enjoy a 1 hour tour & buffet lunch. 810-629-9208. 16th Annual Charlevoix Garden Walk Wed, Jul 16, 10am-4pm, Charlevoix. By Charlevoix Area Garden Club at 6 Charlevoix area gardens. $15. Standard Flower Show open to the public. 231-547-2119, navar@torchlake.com. H Herbal Vinegar Wed, Jul 16, 6-7:30pm, Fenton. At Heavenly Scent Herb Farm. $29.75. Create a 10 oz. bottle by using cider vinegar & a blend of herbs. 810-629-9208. 32nd Annual Garden Walk Thu, Jul 17, 11am-7pm, Traverse City. By The Friendly Garden Club of Traverse City. $10. www.thefriendlygardenclub.org. continued on next page
Promote your events! Send us your information! Website: Go to MichiganGardener.com and click on “Garden Event Calendar” E-Mail: calendar@michigangardener.com Upcoming Issues & Deadlines: Issue
Deadline
September/October 2014 August 15, 2014 November/December 2014 October 15, 2014
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Michigan Gardener | July/August 2014 | MichiganGardener.com
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Need a focal point in your landscape? Plant collector? Looking for something a little different? Then Shades of Green is the place for you! Shrubs and trees are a long-lived investment, so start with quality plants that have been well cared for. Visit Shades of Green, meet our knowledgeable staff, and see our superior quality.
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We help gardeners become professionals. Join us to see how to turn your passion into a business. We are dedicated to promoting the business of professional gardening. Member benefits include access to best gardening practices through participation in educational programs and tours.
BUS TRIP TO MEIJER GARDENS: August 12 Get an inside look at the beautiful gardens and sculpture park. Learn how the gardens are designed and maintained during 2 specially-arranged guided tours. Trip includes round-trip transportation, tours, lunch, a tram ride, and free time to explore. Bus departs from Twelve Oaks Mall in Novi at 8:00 am and returns at 7:30pm. Cost: $30 for members, $40 for non-members. Registration deadline: Thursday, July 31. To register, contact Diane Kuhlman at dddk@sbcglobal.net.
EXQUISITE GARDEN TOUR: Thu, Sept. 11, 4-7pm Enjoy a private tour of an exquisite garden in West Bloomfield. This tour is for members only, so if you are thinking about joining our group, now is the time!
Guest fee: $10. Please contact us for more information about our substantive lectures and programs, as well as membership. Web: www.associationofprofessionalgardeners.org Email: suegrubba@sbcglobal.net Phone: Sue Grubba at 248-375-9233
continued from previous page Blooms ‘n Birds Flower Show Thu, Jul 17, during Library hours, Spring Lake. By Tri-Cities Garden Club, Inc at Spring Lake District Library. FREE. Horticulture exhibits, floral designs & more. www.tricitiesgardenclub.org. Daylily Show & Sale Sat, Jul 19, 9am-4pm, Shelby Township. By Southern Michigan Daylily Society at Telly’s. Wide variety in various colors & forms. www.midaylilysociety.com. H Topiary for All Ages Sat, Jul 19, 2-3pm, Dexter. At Bloom Garden Center. Have you ever wanted to take home a colorfully planted animal topiary? Learn to make your own! events@bloom-gardens.com. H Pond Maintenance Sat, Jul 19, 10-11am, Milford. At The Pond Place. Learn to maintain optimal water quality & keep green water & string algae under control. 248-889-8400. H All About Hydrangeas Sat, Jul 19, 10am & Sun, Jul 20, 1pm, all locations. At English Gardens. FREE. www.EnglishGardens.com. H Michigan Koi & Pond Club Pond Tour Sat, Jul 19, 10am-5pm, Livonia. By The MKPC & The Pond Place of Michigan at various Livonia area homes. $10/adult, $5/child. 734-673-4868, www.mkpc-se.com. Art In The Gardens Sat, Jul 19, 10am-3pm, Novi. At MSU Tollgate Educational Center. FREE. Walking Tour, Master Gardener Guides, artists & more. www.tollgate.msu.edu. H Shelby Gardeners’ Club Garden Walk Sat, Jul 19, 10am-4pm, Shelby. By Shelby Garden Club featuring 6 homes, The Shadbush Teaching Gardens & The Heritage Gardens. $12/day of. $10/advance. 586-726-7529. H Garden Party & Daylily Dig Sat, Jul 19, & Sun, Jul 20, 9am-6pm, Waterford. At Merrittscape. You pick ‘em, we dig ‘em. 1000’s of plants. 248-681-7955. H Daylily Open House Sat, Jul 19, & Sun, Jul 20, 9am-5pm, Howell. At Specialty Growers. FREE. Talk & demo at 1pm both days on dividing daylilies. Daylily dig both days. www.SpecialtyGrowers.net, 517-546-7742. Palmer Woods Garden Tour Sat, Jul 19, 10am-4pm, Palmer Woods. Detroit’s Historic Palmer Woods neighborhood at 6 local gardens. $20. Self guided tour. Advance discount tickets: www.palmerwoods.org. H Brick Pavers, Walls & Steps Sat, Jul 19, 10am, Washington. At Rocks ‘N’ Roots. FREE. Rain or shine. 586-752-4900. H Summer Rose Care Sat, Jul 19, 11am, Southgate. At Ray Hunter. FREE. Learn how to care for these classic beauties in the heat of summer. 734-284-2500. Battle Creek Garden Tour Sat, Jul 19, 10am-4pm, Battle Creek. By Leila Arboretum Society at Battle Creek area gardens. $12. www.lasgarden.org. H The Garden Cruise Sun, Jul 20, 9am-4:30pm, Metro Detroit. By Detroit Garden Works & The Greening of Detroit. Tour Only: $35/person, tour & cocktail reception: $50/person. 248-335-8089. Garden Walk Mon, Jul 21, 10am-4pm, Ferrysburg. By Tri-Cities Garden Club, Inc. at Ferrysburg & Spring Lake gardens. www.tricitiesgardenclub.org. H Pond & Waterfall Design Mon, Jul 21, 10am-noon, Milford. At The Pond Place. Address the key issues associated with designing & building your own pond, stream or waterfall. 248-889-8400. Evening in the Garden Tue, Jul 22, 7pm, Rochester Hills. By Rochester Garden Club at Rochester Hills Museum. FREE. Tour, herbal refreshments & a presentation by Barbara Dziedzic. Register: 248-656-4663.
Ikebana Flower Arranging Thu, Jul 24, 1pm, Ludington. By The Mason Co. Garden Club at United Methodist Church. Learn about the Japanese art of flower arrangement. maggie6872@yahoo.com. Garden Tour “Inspirations” Fri, Jul 25, Harrison Twp. By Harrison Township Beautification Commission. $15. Self guided tour with driving maps. 586-242-3868, keehns@wowway.com. H Color Your Garden With Perennials Sat, Jul 26, 11am, Southgate. At Ray Hunter. FREE. Learn about the wide variety of colorful perennial plants that are easy to care for. 734-284-2500. Harrison Township “Inspirations” Garden Tour Sat, Jul 26, 9am-4pm. Harrison Twp. By Harrison Township Beautification Commission at area gardens. $15. Starts Tucker Senior Ctr. VIP bus tickets available. 586-242-3868. H Caring for your Summer Garden Sat, Jul 26, 10am, all locations. At English Gardens. FREE. www.EnglishGardens.com. H Hydrangeas 101 Sat, Jul 26, 1pm, Plymouth. At Plymouth Nursery. FREE. Find out how to plant & care for them & discover why yours may not be blooming. www.plymouthnursery.net. H Detroit Koi Club Pond Tour Sat, Jul 26, 10am-5pm, Detroit. By Metro Detroit Pond & Garden Club & The Pond Place at Detroit area ponds. $10. Children under 12 FREE. Self guided tour. 248-736-3833, 313-779-2912. H Garden Party & Daylily Dig Sat, Jul 26, & Sun, Jul 27, 9am-6pm, Waterford. At Merrittscape. You pick ‘em, we dig ‘em. 1000’s of plants. 248-681-7955. H Ponds & Water Gardens Sat, Jul 26, 10am, Washington. At Rocks ‘N’ Roots. FREE. Rain or shine. 586-752-4900. A Patriotic Tea in the Gardens Sun, Jul 27, 1-3pm, Taylor. At Taylor Conservatory. $35. Enjoy tea & an Americana themed program in the gardens. taylorconservatory@sbcglobal.net, 734-383-5871. Bonsai Mentor Workshop Sun, Jul 27, 2pm, Troy. By 4 Seasons Bonsai Club at Telly’s Greenhouse. Bring your own bonsai event where beginners are paired with experienced members. www.FourSeasonsBonsai.com. H Garden Party: A Celebration of Daylilies Sun, Jul 27, 1-5pm, Gladwin. At Stone Cottage Gardens. Stroll through the gardens & enjoy the musicians, artists & refreshments. 989-426-2919, www.StoneCottageGardens.com. H Fairy Garden Mon, Jul 28, 10:30am, Tipton. At Hidden Lake Gardens. $30/family. Register: 517-431-2060. H Outdoor Garden Parties Tue, Jul 29, to Thurs, Jul 31, 11:30am-1:30pm. Fenton. At Heavenly Scent Herb Farm. $29.75. Enjoy an afternoon lunch/tea & create a wire button flower set in a clay pot. 810-629-9208.
August H Garden Day Sat, Aug 2, 8am-4:15pm, East Lansing. By MSU Horticulture Gardens at Plant & Soil Sciences Building. $85. Presentations by author Amy Stewart. Register: www.hrt.msu.edu/garden-day-2014. Mid-Summer Garden Walk Sat, Aug 2, 10am-4pm, Farmington. By Farmington GC at 7 area gardens. $10. Begins at Governor Warner Mansion. Tickets available at Steinkopf Nursery 2 weeks prior. 248-626-6322. H Brick Pavers, Walls & Steps Sat, Aug 2, 10am, Washington. At Rocks ‘N’ Roots. FREE. Rain or shine. 586-752-4900.
St Sa Ga w H Sa FR H Sa $3 w H Tu Fe af cla H Sa w H Sa Na w H Sa Re Te H Sa Ra H W $5 Th H Sa Ra H Sa all w H Sa Le bl H Sa An w H Sa Ra Da Sa Sc w H Sa w H Sa Fe M w H Sa ta Ar Sa on te He Th Un ho
MichiganGardener.com | July/August 2014 | Michigan Gardener
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SummER Color plAntS
Over 25 varieties of hydrangeas, all reliable bloomers:
Stroll in our Garden Sat, Aug 2, 1-6pm, Bay Country Area. By Valley Garden Club of Bay County at 8 area home gardens. www.valleygardenclubofbaycounty.org, 989-686-3803. H Intro into Fairy & Miniature Gardens Sat, Aug 2, Sat, 10am, all locations. At English Gardens. FREE. www.EnglishGardens.com. H Kid’s Workshop Sat, Aug 2, 10am, all locations. At English Gardens. $39.99. Create a Fairy Garden. Register: www.EnglishGardens.com. H Outdoor Garden Tea Parties Tue, Aug 5, Wed, Aug 6, & Thur, Aug 7, 11:30am-1:30pm. Fenton. At Heavenly Scent Herb Farm. $29.75. Enjoy an afternoon lunch/tea & create a wire button flower set in a clay pot. 810-629-9208. H Cool Plants for Shady Areas Sat, Aug 9, 10am, all locations. At English Gardens. FREE. www.EnglishGardens.com. H Children’s Garden Day Sat, Aug 9, 11am-3pm, Tipton. At Hidden Lake Gardens. Nature crafts, food & fun for the whole family. www.HiddenLakeGardens.msu.edu, 517-431-2060. H Stories & Tunes in the Garden Sat, Aug 9, 1:30-3pm, Gladwin. At Stone Cottage Gardens. Relax on the lawn while the Mid Michigan Area Story Tellers spin stories for the whole family. 989-426-2919. H Brick Pavers, Walls & Steps Sat, Aug 9, 10am, Washington. At Rocks ‘N’ Roots. FREE. Rain or shine. 586-752-4900. H Canning Pickles Wed, Aug 13, 6-9pm. Fenton. At Heavenly Scent Herb Farm. $58.75. Learn to make dill, bread-n-butter & brine pickles. Then learn to pickle garden veggies. 810-629-9208. H Ponds & Water Gardens Sat, Aug 16, 10am, Washington. At Rocks ‘N’ Roots. FREE. Rain or shine. 586-752-4900. H Arranging Garden Flowers Sat, Aug 16, Sat, 10am. At English Gardens, all locations except Ann Arbor & Eastpointe. FREE. www.EnglishGardens.com. H Seed Saving & Propagation Sat, Aug 16, 2-3pm, Dexter. At Bloom Garden Center. Learn the best way to preserve genetic lines. events@ bloom-gardens.com, www.bloom-gardens.com. H Ann Arbor Bonsai Show Sat, Aug 23, & Sun, Aug 24, 10am-4pm, Ann Arbor. At Matthaei Botanical Gardens. www.annarborbonsaisociety.org. H Brick Pavers, Walls & Steps Sat, Aug 23, 10am, Washington. At Rocks ‘N’ Roots. FREE. Rain or shine. 586-752-4900. Dahlia Show Sat, Aug 23, Grand Rapids. At Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. Experts on hand, arrangements & more. www.meijergardens.org. 616-957-1580. H Plants for Screening Sat, Aug 23, 10am, all locations. At English Gardens. FREE. www.EnglishGardens.com. H Herbal Summer Faire Sat, Aug 23, 10am-5pm & Sun, Aug 24, 11am-5pm, Fenton. At Heavenly Scent Herb Farm. $2. Master Gardeners on hand, delectable lunches & more. www.heavenlyscentherbfarm.com. H Tomato Festival Sat, Aug 23, Southgate. At Ray Hunter. FREE. Tomato tastings, demos, contests & more. 734-284-2500. Art In The Garden Sat, Aug 23, 10am-5pm, Lapeer. At The Display Gardens on Suncrest. FREE. Artists in the garden & gardening techniques. 248-693-1195, www.lc-mga.org. Herbal Vinegars Thu, Aug 28, 1pm, Ludington. By Mason Co. Garden Club at United Methodist Church. Peaches Throckmorton teaches how to make herbed vinegars. maggie6872@yahoo.com.
H Brick Pavers, Walls & Steps Sat, Aug 30, 10am, Washington. At Rocks ‘N’ Roots. FREE. Rain or shine. 586-752-4900. H Perennial Gardening 101 Sat, Aug 30, 10am, all locations. At English Gardens. FREE. www.EnglishGardens.com.
Little Quick Fire, Bobo, Strawberry Sundae, Munchkin, Ruby Slippers, BloomStruck, and many more!
outstanding collection
of summer-blooming trees, shrubs & perennials
September Fall Plant Sale Sat, Sep 6, 9am, Ludington. By Mason Co. Garden Club at Leveaux Park. All plants should be in pots & labeled. maggie6872@yahoo.com. H Ponds & Water Sources Sat, Sep 6, 10am, Washington. At Rocks ‘N’ Roots. FREE. Rain or shine. 586-752-4900. H The Basics of Landscape Design Sat, Sep 6, 10am, all locations. Hints for creating an exceptional landscape. At English Gardens. FREE. www.EnglishGardens.com. H Brick Pavers, Walls & Steps Sat, Sep 13, 10am, Washington. At Rock ‘N’ Rocks. FREE. Rain or shine. 586-752-4900. H Customer Appreciation Day Sat, Sep 13, 6-9pm, Milford. At The Pond Place. Lighted Ponds, door prizes, wine & cheese reception. www. pondplace.com. H Brick Pavers, Walls & Steps Sat, Sep 20, 10am, Washington. At Rock ‘N’ Rocks. FREE. Rain or shine. 586-752-4900. H Bulbs, Tubers & Corms Sat, Sep 20, 2-3pm, Dexter. At Bloom Garden Center. Learn how to beautify your garden with bulbs. events@ bloom-gardens.com, www. bloom-gardens.com. H Algae & Weed Control Sat, Sep 20, Noon-1pm, Milford. At The Pond Place. Learn the methods of controlling algae & weeds in small lakes & large ponds with clay bottoms. 248-889-8400. H Brick Pavers, Wall & Steps Sat, Sep 27, 10am, Washington. At Rock ‘N’ Rocks. FREE. Rain or shine. 586-752-4900. Growing with Master Gardeners Conference Sat, Sep 27, Dearborn. By MGAWC at UM-Dearborm. For gardeners of all skill levels. www.mgawc.org, 734-786-6860. Bonsai Auction & Pot Luck Sun, Sep 28, 2pm, Troy. By 4 Seasons Bonsai Club at Telly’s Greenhouse. Acquire everything from trees, pots, tools, books & more. www.FourSeasonsBonsai.com. H Pond Winterization Sat, Oct 4, 10-11am, Milford. At The Pond Place. Learn to clean & winterize your pond. www.pondplace.com. H Pond Winterization Sat, Oct 11, 10-11am, Milford. At The Pond Place. Learn to clean & winterize your pond. www.pondplace.com. African Violet Event Sat, Oct 18, 10am-4pm, Ann Arbor. By Michigan State African Violet Society at Matthaei Botanical Gardens. Display, sale, & experts on hand. LynnAllen0413@ comcast.net. H Pond Winterization Sat, Oct 18, 10-11am, Milford. At The Pond Place. Learn to clean & winterize your pond. www.pondplace.com. Techniques Workshop Sun, Oct 26, 2pm, Troy. By 4 Seasons Bonsai Club at Telly’s Greenhouse. Must-see techniques for beginners-experts. Bring your own tree & tools. www.FourSeasonsBonsai.com. H Ladies Night Out Fri, Nov 7, 6-9pm, Fenton. At Heavenly Scent Herb Farm. www.HeavenlyScentHerbFarm.com Bonsai Pots & Display Stands Sun, Nov 23, 2pm, Troy. By 4 Seasons Bonsai at Telly’s Greenhouse. Todd Renshaw presents a demo on finding the perfect pot & stand. Winter care discussion. www.FourSeasonsBonsai.com.
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Rochester Hills
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Sun: Closed
28
Michigan Gardener | July/August 2014 | MichiganGardener.com
A collection of stores and gardens to shop and visit. Please call ahead for hours, as they may vary from season to season.
Columbiaville, Davison
Bay City, Burton, Clio, Gladwin, Midland, Saginaw
North Branch
Lapeer
Emmett Imlay City
Flushing Lennon
Port Huron
Hadley Dryden
Grand Blanc
Flint
Bancroft, Owosso
Lakeport
Metamora
Almont
clinton twp H English Gardens 44850 Garfield Rd, MI 48038 586-286-6100 www.EnglishGardens.com
Fenton
Oxford
Ortonville
Addison Twp.
Orion Clarkston Hartland
White Lake Highland
Holly White Lake Waterford
Howell East Lansing, Fowlerville, Grand Rapids, Haslett, Lansing, Mason, Williamston
West Bloomfield
Walled Lake Wixom Brighton
Rochester Hills
New Hudson South Lyon
Whitmore Lake
Novi Northville
Bloomfield Hills Birmingham
Troy Sterling Hts.
Southfield Oak Park Ferndale
Detroit
Canton
Dearborn Dearborn Wayne Heights
Ypsilanti
Taylor Romulus
Saline New Boston
Tipton
Clinton Twp.
Livonia Redford
Belleville Manchester
Utica
Westland
Ann Arbor
New Baltimore
St. Clair Roseville Shores Madison Royal Oak Heights Warren
Farmington Hills Farmington
Dexter
Macomb
Tecumseh
Brownstown Twp.
Southgate Trenton Grosse Ile
Rockwood, Monroe
Eastpointe
Grosse Pointes
brighton
H Beauchamp Landscp Supp Bordine’s Brighton Farmer’s Mkt Cowbell Lawn/Gard Leppek Nurs H Meier Flowerland 8087 W. Grand River, MI 48114 810-229-9430 www.meierflowerland.com H Nature’s Home & Garden Ctr 106 W. Main St., MI 48116 810-224-5577 www.naturesgardencenter.com
brownstown twp
Bruce’s Pond Shop Raupp Brothers Gard Ctr Ruhlig Farms & Gard
burton
Want to advertise your local business in Places to Grow? 2 options: You have 2 options: enhanced listing 4-line listing with your: • Business name • Address • Phone • Website or E-mail
premium listing 4-line listing PLUS highlighting: • Business name • Address • Phone • Website or E-mail
please contact us for info: publisher@ MichiganGardener.com 248-594-5563
H Denotes MG Advertiser
H State Crushing
addison twp
bancroft
almont
bay city
Yule Love It Lavender Farm American Tree
ann arbor
H Abbott’s Nurs Ace Barnes Hardware Downtown Home/Gard H English Gardens 155 N. Maple Rd, MI 48103 734-332-7900 www.EnglishGardens.com H HillTop Greenhse/Farms H Lodi Farms H The Produce Station H Turner’s Greenhse/Garn Ctr Wild Birds Unltd
auburn hills
Drake’s Landscp & Nurs H Haley Stone 3600 Lapeer Rd., MI 48326 248-276-9300 www.haleystone.net
Grand Oak Herb Farm H Begick Nursery & Garden Ctr 5993 Westside Saginaw Rd, 48706 989-684-4210 www.begicknursery.com
belleville
Banotai Greenhse Gardeners Choice H Pinter Flowerland H Zywicki Greenhse
berkley
Garden Central
bloomfield hills Backyard Birds
birmingham H Blossoms 33866 Woodward Ave, MI 48009 248-644-4411 www.blossomsbirmingham.com Plant Station Tiffany Florist
H Walker Farms & Greenhouse 5253 E. Atherton Rd., MI 48519 810-743-0260 www.walkersfarm.com
canton
Canton Floral Gardens Clink Nurs Crimboli Landscp/Nurs H Wild Birds Unltd
cement city
Hallson Gardens
chelsea H Garden Mill 110 S. Main St., MI 48118 734-475-3539 www.thegardenmill.com The Potting Shed
chesterfield
Van Thomme’s Greenhses
clarkston
Bordine’s Country Oaks Landscp I Lowrie’s Landscp H The Pond Source
lennon
flushing
livonia
Masserant’s Feed Store H Flushing Lawn & Garden Ctr 114 Terrace St., MI 48433 810-659-6241 www.unclelukes.com
fowlerville
H Arrowhead Alpines
gladwin
Michigan Koi H Tropical Treasures
H Stone Cottage Gardens 3740 West Willford Rd, 48624 989-426-2919 www.stonecottagegardens.com
clio
grand blanc
H Piechnik’s Grnhse & Gdn Ctr 13172 McCumsey Rd, MI 48420 810-686-9211 www.cliogreenhouse.com
Berkley
Plymouth
Cement City, Chelsea, Grass Lake, Jackson, Stockbridge
Shelby Twp.
Auburn Hills
Sylvan Lake Commerce
Ray
Rochester
Pontiac
Milford
Washington
Oakland
flat rock
columbiaville Hilltop Barn
commerce twp
Backyard Birds Zoner’s Greenhse
davison H Wojo’s Gard Splendors 7360 E. Court St., MI 48423 810-658-9221 www.wojos.com
dearborn
Fairlane Gardens
dearborn heights H English Gardens 22650 Ford Rd, MI 48127 313-278-4433 www.EnglishGardens.com
detroit
Allemon’s Landscp Ctr H Detroit Farm and Garden 1759 21st St., MI 48216 313-655-2344 www.detroitfarmandgarden.com H Eastern Market 2934 Russell St., MI 48207 313-833-9300 www.detroiteasternmarket.com
dexter
H Bloom! Gard Ctr Dexter Mill H Fraleighs Landscape Nursery 8600 Jackson Rd., MI 48130 734-426-5067 www.fraleighs.com
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Christian’s Greenhse H Van Atta’s Greenhse Colasanti’s Produce/Plant Fragments Highland Garden Ctr H One Stop Landscp Supp
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howell H Howell Farmer’s Mkt Dwntn Howell @ State & Clinton Sts. 517-546-3920 www.howell.org/19.html Penrose Nurs H Specialty Growers 4330 Golf Club Rd., MI 48843 517-546-7742 www.specialtygrowers.net Wilczewski Greenhses
H Campbell’s Greenhouses Oldani Landscp Nurs Begonia Brothers Gardenviews H Willow Greenhouses
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Glenda’s Gard Ctr Stone City H Wild Birds Unltd
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oakland H Piechnik’s Garden Gate 1095 N. Rochester Rd., MI 48363 586-336-7200 www.cliogreenhouse.com
ortonville
Country Oaks Landscp II
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H Wojo’s Greenhse 2570 Oakwood Rd., MI 48462 248-627-6498 www.wojos.com
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H Earthly Arts Greenhse The Hobbit Place Lake Orion Lawn Orn H Orion Stone Depot H Wojo’s of Lake Orion 559 S. Lapeer Rd, MI 48362 248-690-7435 www.wojos.com
Gerych’s Flowers/Gift H Heavenly Scent Herb Farm
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Backyard Birds Graye’s Greenhse Lucas Nurs H Plymouth Nursery 9900 Plymouth Rd., MI 48170 734-453-5500 www.plymouthnursery.net
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Billings Lawn Equip H English Gardens 4901 Coolidge Hwy, MI 48073 248-280-9500 www.EnglishGardens.com H Wild Birds Unltd
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H Cranbrook Gardens 380 Lone Pine Rd., MI 48303 248-645-3147 housegardens.cranbrook.edu
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H MSU Horticultural Gardens W.J. Beal Botanical Gard
emmett H Sunny Fields Botanical Park 5444 Welch Rd., MI 48022 810-387-2765 www.visitsunnyfields.org
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H Matthaei Botanical Gardens/ Nichols Arboretum 1800 North Dixboro Rd., MI 48105 734-647-7600 www.mbgna.umich.edu
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H Barson’s Greenhse 6414 N. Merriman Rd., MI 48185 734-421-5959 www.barsons.com
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Michigan Gardener | July/August 2014 | MichiganGardener.com
perennial perspectives
Acanthus Acanthus, commonly known as bear’s breeches, is an attention-getting perennial: there is nothing understated about it. With its attractive and distinctively-shaped foliage and unique flower formation, acanthus has the ability to draw the eye like a magnet. The stylized leaves of this Mediterranean native have been used to create borders and motifs in architecture, the most famous of which can be found in the architecture of the ancient Corinthians. In the classical world, the acanthus plant represented immortality. It is unknown if this meaning is because acanthus is extremely long-lived, with some species reproducKaren ing so readily from root Bovio offsets that the plant seems to “live forever.� This ability may be viewed as either a plus or a minus, depending on how much you like the plant and how conducive your conditions are for its growth! Acanthus is perhaps not as well known to Midwestern gardeners as it should be, largely because it has gotten a reputation as not being hardy in the colder zones. While it is true that some species and cultivars are only hardy to zone 7, there are several hardy ones worth seeking out. A. hungaricus, perhaps the hardiest, is rated zone 5 and this author can report that her A. hungaricus (aka A. balcanicus) has had a very long and happy life in a full-sun garden with only average moisture, blooming well each year in early July. Unfortunately it is not commonly found in nurseries. A. mollis and A. spinosus are more likely to be offered, but their hardiness rating is usually listed as zone 6 or even 7, depending on the reference. Nevertheless, I have seen clumps of both of these species growing well in gardens in southeast and south central (Lansing area) Michigan. Proper siting may play a significant role in growing these two species. In addition to the hardiness issues, they are known to languish in extreme heat and humidity. It is for this reason that acanthus is often listed as a shade plant. However, this is not entirely accurate, because the plants grow and bloom best when given 4 or 5 hours of sun per day, along with an ample supply of moisture. An ideal location for these species would be a site that receives P h oto g r ap h s by e r i c h o f l e y / m i c h i ga n ga r d e n e r
A mature clump of acanthus in full bloom is an unforgettable sight.
Acanthus flowers consist of a purplish hood with white or pale lavender three-lipped petals beneath.
These acanthus thrive in the afternoon shade an adjacent tree hedge provides.
MichiganGardener.com | July/August 2014 | Michigan Gardener
Acanthus spinosus has deeply divided leaves with spines at the tips.
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Acanthus plants grow and bloom best when given 4 or 5 hours of sun per day, along with ample moisture. An ideal location has morning sun, with shade during the hottest part of the afternoon. Even when faded, acanthus flowers are a striking architectural accent in the garden.
At a glance Acanthus hungaricus (A. balcanicus) • Hardy to zone 5 • More drought and sun tolerant than other species • Dark-green, oak-like lobed leaves, not spiny • Purple and white hooded flowers in 3- to 4-foot tall spikes • 2-4 feet tall, 2-3 feet wide
Acanthus mollis
Good companions for acanthus include hydrangeas and ferns. morning sun, with shade during the hottest part of the afternoon, and moist, well-drained soil. A winter mulch is recommended, especially in zone 5. A deep bed of coarsely shredded leaves over the crown should do nicely. In milder maritime climates, such as the Pacific Northwest, A. mollis in particular can become aggressive because of its rapid spread by tuberous root offsets, but this is rarely a problem in climates that are both colder in winter and hotter and more humid in summer, such as that of southern Michigan. Despite these caveats, gardeners will find it well worth the effort to find a place for these beauties in the garden. The plants are so impressive when well grown that they easily become beloved focal points in the garden. As might be guessed by their scientific names, A. mollis has smooth, non-spiny leaves and A. spinosus has more deeply divided leaves with
spines at their tips. However, all species have sharp prickles on the bracts beneath the flowers, so care should be used when deadheading the plants. All of the acanthus species have similar foxglove- or snapdragon-like flower spikes; the flowers consist of a purplish or purple-green hood with white or pale lavender three-lipped petals beneath. The flower spikes are densely packed, and wellgrown clumps produce a multitude of flowering spikes. A mature clump in full bloom is an unforgettable sight. A hybrid cultivar, Acanthus x ‘Summer Beauty,’ is receiving acclaim among gardeners for its greater tolerance of heat and humidity, along with even more outstanding foliage and flowers. It is most likely a hybrid of A. mollis and A. spinosus, with hybrid vigor exhibited by the taller stature (flower spikes may reach 6 feet!) and much larger, glossier
Acanthuses have sharp prickles on the bracts beneath the flowers, so care should be used when deadheading the plants. foliage. With hardiness listed as either zone 5 or 6 (references vary, as they do with most of the acanthus species), this variety would be well worth seeking out. For those who live in zone 7, and possibly zone 6 with mulch in a protected site, there are two fabulous variegated cultivars available. A. mollis ‘Tasmanian Angel’ offers striking bold leaves with white margins and mottling, and 3- to 4-foot flower stalks. The flowers, instead of the usual purple or lavender, are pink and cream. Acanthus ‘Whitewater,’ a hybrid with A. ‘Summer Beauty’ parentage, shows good heat tolerance. The foliage is outlined and splashed with white, and the flowers are nearly pure white, just barely tinted with pink, on tall reddish stems. Karen Bovio is the owner of Specialty Growers in Howell, MI.
• Hardiness zone 6 or 7 • Best in rich, moist, well-drained soil • Prefers sun to partial sun, with afternoon shade • Soft, non-spiny lobed leaves • Spreads by root offsets • 4-5 feet tall, 2-3 feet wide
Acanthus spinosus • Hardiness zone 6, possibly zone 5 with mulch • Prefers sun to partial shade, moist but not overly wet soils • Large, deeply divided, spiny leaves • Grows 24 to 36 inches wide, flower spikes up to 5 feet • 4-5 feet tall, 2-3 feet wide
Acanthus ‘Summer Beauty’ • Hybrid of A. mollis and A. spinosus • Hardier and more heat tolerant • Very large, glossy, lobed leaves • Imposing, dramatic stature, up to 6-foot tall flower spikes • 5-6 feet tall, 3-4 feet wide
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Michigan Gardener | July/August 2014 | MichiganGardener.com
W1 The bare ground in the Friends Garden (westerly side) before garden installation.
W4 Fall in the second year.
W2 The river rock has been placed and white marks for boulders have been made.
W5 W3 River rock, boulders, plants and mulch in fall of the first year in the Friends Garden.
This fall scene includes mums (Dendranthema x grandiflorum, Chrysanthemum ‘Hardy Single Pink’), Japanese forest grass (Hakonechloa macra ‘All Gold’), clumping fountain bamboo (Fargesia nitida), yew (Taxus cuspidata Emerald Spreader), and variegated iris (Iris pallida ‘Variegata’).
MichiganGardener.com | July/August 2014 | Michigan Gardener
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Plant list: Westerly garden Trees/Shrubs • Cherry laurel shrub (Prunus laurocerasus ‘Schipkaensis’) • Weeping bald cypress (Taxodium distichum ‘Cascade Falls’) • Emerald Spreader yew (Taxus cuspidata Emerald Spreader) • Sargent’s weeping Canadian hemlock (Tsuga canadensis ‘Sargentii’) • Red leaf Japanese maple (Acer palmatum Emperor I) • Golden chain tree (Laburnum x watereri ‘Vossii’) • Striped maple (Acer x ‘White Tigress’) • Lily-of-the-valley shrub (Pieris japonica ‘Andromeda’)
Perennials • Heartleaf bergenia (Bergenia ‘Bressingham Ruby’) • Purple bergenia (Bergenia purpurascens) • Japanese forest grass (Hakonechloa macra ‘All Gold’) • Variegated iris (Iris pallida ‘Variegata’) • Japanese painted ferns (Athyrium nipponicum ‘Pictum’ and ‘Burgundy Lace’) • Christmas fern (Polystichum acrostichoides) • Fountain bamboo, clumping (Fargesia nitida) • Variegated Solomon’s seal (Polygonatum odoratum ‘Variegatum’) • Drumstick primrose (Primula denticulata) • Hosta (Hosta sieboldiana ‘Elegans’) • Variegated lilyturf (Liriope muscari ‘Variegata’)
E3 E1 The easterly side of the walkway (shown here with bare ground) is much narrower than the westerly side.
Annuals provide some foreground color in mid-summer of year number two: white caladium ‘Candidum’ and beefsteak plant (Perilla magilla).
E2 The easterly garden in late spring of its first year. Plants include hosta ‘Inniswood,’ bergenia ‘Bressingham Ruby,’ Japanese painted fern (Athyrium nipponicum ‘Pictum,’ Christmas fern (Polystichum acrostichoides), and European ginger (Asarum europaeum). continued from back cover perennials. Easterly only had space for selected perennials. An underground irrigation system was installed on both sides to supplement natural precipitation and for ease of maintenance. All four seasons were to be emphasized in the garden. Spring-flowering bulbs, annual flowers for summer, autumn foliage colors, and evergreen form and texture during winter accomplished the goal. (See the sidebar for a plant list.)
Reading terrace garden An outdoor reading area was developed into a sitting area surrounded by gardens.
The fenced terrace had strips of space for gardens inside with vertical ‘Armstrong’ red maples along three sides acting as tall walls. The entry to the terrace was the fourth side with garden space flanking the doors. Permanent round umbrella tables were spaced on the brick paver floor along with long benches on the sides. These four sections were no design issue. However, another circular garden bed centered in the terrace as a focal point (i.e. seen from inside the building) needed some thought—another design challenge. Originally an art sculpture was contemplated for the circular area, but it was soon
Eric Hofley /Michigan Gardener
The central garden bed in the terrace reading garden is anchored by ‘Forest Pansy’ eastern redbud. The red leaves are contrasted nicely by yellow ‘Rhinegold’ dwarf arborvitae and whiteflowered ‘Little Lamb’ hydrangea. vetoed for a garden. Eventually, the light bulb finally lit: a sculptural tree! The winning candidate became a ‘Forest Pansy’ eastern redbud. What were the qualifications? The burgundy foliage echoed the wine-colored floor pavers. Plus, the rounded branch structure fit well in the circle bed as well as highlighted the rounded umbrella tables. Meeting the criteria for the four seasons fell into place too. The seasonal interest was there during winter with the silhouette of branches and during spring the bright rose-pink flowers bloomed before the foliage
emerged for the summer and autumn effect. The outside perimeter of the circle bed needed a globular form and the seasonallychanging, colored evergreen foliage of the ‘Rhinegold’ dwarf arborvitae fit the bill. A summer fluff of white-puffed, ‘Little Lamb’ hydrangea flowers lightened up the shaded canopy of the redbud branches to complete this focal point in the reading terrace. Jim Slezinski is the Vice President and Senior Landscape Designer/Horticulturist at Goldner Walsh Garden and Home in Pontiac, MI.
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Michigan Gardener | July/August 2014 | MichiganGardener.com
Strawberry Sundae Hydrangea Strawberry Sundae (Hydrangea paniculata) is a compact version of the Vanilla Strawberry hydrangea. Flowers emerge creamy white in midsummer, change to pink, and finally to strawberry red. The color combination brings to mind a strawberry sundae ice cream dessert. With its compact habit, this hydrangea can add color to a small space or a container. The flower color lasts well into fall. Excellent for fresh cut and dried flower arrangements. Height: 4-5 feet. Width: 3-4 feet. Sun to partial shade.
Tunpetti Corp. (2)
Regal Petticoat Sycamore Maple This tree (Acer pseudoplatanus), discovered in eastern Canada in 2002, has shown superior leaf colors in spring, summer (dark, glossy green with a velvety purple underside), and fall (leaves turn aspen yellow on top and magenta pink on the underside, accented with reds, oranges, and salmons). Height: 40 feet. Width: 30 feet. Sun to partial sun. Bailey Nurseries
Everlasting Revolution Hydrangea
Proven Winners Color Choice
Repeat-flowering hydrangeas often disappoint because they bloom sporadically. Everlasting Revolution (Hydrangea macrophylla) not only flowers on new and old wood, but the flowers fade to magical color combinations of deep pink, maroon and blue, adding green highlights as they age over a long period of time. Many colors can be seen simultaneously, making each stem seem like a bouquet unto itself. Height: 24-30 inches. Width: 24-30 inches. Sun to partial shade.
Filip’s Magic Moment Arborvitae We all know the ubiquitous Emerald Green arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis). Filip’s Magic Moment naturally occurred as a branch mutation on Emerald Green. It has yellow foliage and will grow slower than Emerald Green, making it an easy-togrow alternative to dwarf Alberta spruce. It has a similar size and habit, plus brighter color. It’s perfect for flanking entrances, either in the ground or in large containers. Height: 6-8 feet. Width: 2-4 feet. Sun to partial sun.
Photo: Plants Nouveau
All That Glitters & All That Glows Viburnums These deciduous shrubs (Viburnum bracteatum) boast shiny foliage that glitters in the light. White flowers in late spring are followed by blue fruit in the fall that attracts birds. Plant near each other for the best production of blue fruit in late summer and fall. Deer-resistant. Height: 4-6 feet. Width: 4-6 feet. Sun to partial sun. Photos: Proven Winners Color Choice
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design desk
Landscape design challenges: Remedies and suggestions Apply some of these lessons and superb plants to your own garden The signature gardens of the Bloomfield Township Public Library (BTPL) were conceived in 2006 and approved and implemented in the following years as part of the building’s expansion and renovation. This colorful and educational garden project presented many design challenges to the 12 locations on the property, each significant. This was not to be a normal or generic landscape planting for the typical commercial building. The gardens were to be effective and interesting during all four seasons. Not only were the flowers and foliage important pieces to the aesthetics, but plant, shrub and tree structure, ornamental fruits, seed heads and Jim pods as well as tree Slezinski bark were to play a role in the make-up of the gardens. Previous gardens had been lost in the reconstruction and the new garden sites changed, and thus had new environments to ponder. Structural changes to the building, water issues, sun and shade conditions, soil type and the threat of animal damage were all impending “head scratchers” to the design.
Starting with a clean slate The entry garden theme selected was a natural Asian-style forest scene, with diverse plantings and fieldstone boulders. In effect, P h oto g r a p h s by j i m S l e z i n s k i
Jonathon Hofley /Michigan Gardener
The walkway into the Bloomfield Township Public Library is flanked by the Friends Garden, with the westerly side on the left and easterly side at right. it was to be a walk-through garden as you approach the building. Sponsored by The Friends of BTPL (a volunteer, fund-raising organization), the garden was also to have a panoramic view from the interior youth room glass wall panels. The main entrance, facing south, was architecturally redesigned with a major canopy covering the widened front walkway. Strips of vacant, compacted land flanked both sides of the entry. The westerly side had ample space and a fair amount of sun exposure while the easterly side lacked space as well as light. Both areas had water issues: westerly was open to natural rains and precipitation, while the easterly was under the extended building
overhang that shed any rains. Compounding the situation, the westerly side received deluges of water in two spots directly under the scuppers (openings for rain run-off) at the edge of the roof line. This was “feast or famine” with water for that area. Too much water caused floods here.
Water issue resolved A simple underground drainage pipe with some sewer grates to eliminate the floods solved the problem. The aesthetics then came into play: a “dry stream” meandering over the pipe with flat Mexican or Japanese river-washed rocks. The ornamental river rocks came to the rescue. During rains, water
running off the roof (waterfall-like in appearance) wets the river rocks and then darkens them in color (shiny black) as the stream seemingly flows into the drains. With no rain, the dry rocks cast a blue-gray movement to the eye, paralleling the wall and the walkway. So then a backbone to the garden evolved, highlighted with the boulders and driftwood, judiciously placed for a natural look. Placement of the plants followed. A palette of those shade and semi-shade lovers, many with Asian origins, were incorporated into the design. The westerly side could accommodate trees and shrubs as well as continued on page 32