November/December 2015
MichiganGardener.com
Your guide to Great Lakes gardening
Plant Focus
Paperbark maple
Feature
Planting winter containers
Tree Tips
Abiotic plant disorders
To-Do List Feature Task How to grow orchids
Please thank our advertisers in this issue
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WOJO’S Greenhouse 2570 Oakwood Rd. Ortonville, MI 48462 248-627-6498
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Celebrate Family at Wojo’s Our Poinsettias are grown right here in our greenhouse. Our evergreens are handmade and the freshest you’ll find anywhere! Seasonal Planters ~ Wreaths ~ Centerpieces ~ Garland Poinsettias ~ Kissing Balls Swags ~ Memorial Blankets Custom Designs Available
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Van Atta’s is open all year!
Sat & Sun, Nov 21 & 22 Music , Food, SALES!
Visit Van Atta’s for homegrown poinsettias, handmade wreaths, specialty greens, gorgeous and unique holiday décor and more! Custom holiday containers and arrangements for indoors or out are our specialty. Come see us for the perfect gift, decorating inspiration, and holiday cheer! Van Atta’s has one of the largest selections of garden accents, trees, shrubs and perennials in Southeastern Michigan.
Van Atta’s Greenhouse & Flower Shop Family owned and operated since 1980
9008 Old M-78 • Haslett, MI • 517-339-1142 www.vanattas.com • Open year round
Customers love our incredible selection during spring, summer and fall. Ditto for
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Michigan Gardener | November/December 2015 | MichiganGardener.com
The Holidays.
Garden Wisdom I quickly adjust to the arrangements of empty pots, the swept paving, the bare bones, the pared-down look of winter. —Christopher Lloyd, in a letter to Beth Chatto
At Telly’s, we are fully stocked for the holiday season. Let us impress you with our year-round dedication to superior selection, quality, and service.
Holiday Workshops Sensational Holiday Arrangements Saturday, November 14, 10-11:30a, Pontiac location This popular class fills up fast! Carolyn, lead floral designer at Goldner Walsh, shows how to make a beautiful arrangement that celebrates Thanksgiving and then artfully transitions it to Christmas. Materials included in this hands-on workshop: Decorative cube container, ribbons, pine cones, pods, and evergreens. Bring clippers. $36/person. Pre-paid registration required; call 248-332-6430.
Indoor and Outdoor Greens Arrangement Workshop Saturday, November 21: Troy location: 10am / Pontiac location: 1pm Sat, December 5: Troy location: 10am Create a beautiful indoor table decoration, a unique hand-crafted gift, or an outdoor greens arrangement. Our instructors will guide you as we explore Telly's enormous selection of greens, cones, twigs, berries, ribbon, accents, and more. Bring your own container or choose one of ours. Workshop fee is $5 plus the cost of materials used. Please pre-register by calling 248689-8735. Please bring a pair of clippers.
Fresh-cut Christmas Trees (Troy Location) Come see the finest variety of fresh-cut Christmas trees including: Fraser Fir • Nordmann Fir • Scotch Pine • White Pine Blue Spruce • Concolor Fir • Noble Fir • Grand Fir • Balsam Fir
Holiday Décor • Miles of fresh roping • 1000's of poinsettias in many sizes & colors • Dazzling “painted” poinsettias in every color of the rainbow • Custom-created wreaths and centerpieces
• Memorial blankets created daily with that personal touch • Dozens of unique gift ideas for the holidays • Telly’s Gift Cards for that special gardener on your list • Christmas cactus, flowering plants, paperwhites, & more!
5 OFF any purchase of $50 or more
$
Not valid for gift certificates. One coupon per customer. May not be used in conjunction with any other coupon or offer. Expires December 24, 2015.
To-Do List...................................................... 6
Calendar........................................................17
Ask MG..........................................................8 Books for the Michigan Gardener........10
Where to pick up Michigan Gardener..........................................18
Tree Tips ......................................................12
Bulk Subscriptions.....................................19
Places to Grow.......................................... 14
Plant Focus: Paperbark maple............ 20
Gift Subscriptions......................................15
Through the Lens.....................................27
Advertiser Index........................................16
Planting winter pots...............Back Cover
Classified Ads.............................................16
On the cover: The bark of paperbark maple is magnificently displayed on a green backdrop of arborvitaes.
Weather Wrap...........................................16 Subscription Form.....................................16
To Our Readers... Please look for the next issue of Michigan Gardener in April, 2016. We want to thank our advertisers for making this season of Michigan Gardener possible— our 20th year! Michigan Gardener, your locally owned and published gardening magazine, would not exist without them and their support. Please visit our advertisers and purchase their products and services. Let them know you saw their ad in Michigan Gardener! Your patronage is what will make Michigan Gardener possible for years to come. Have you signed up for our free E-Newsletter yet? Visit MichiganGardener.com and enter your e-mail address at the top of the page. Want to find the latest garden events in our area this winter? Go to MichiganGardener.com and click on the garden event calendar. Plus, we will be adding gardening information to our website throughout the winter. Thank you and see you in the spring!
Publisher/Editor Eric Hofley Design & Production Jonathon Hofley Advertising Eric Hofley
TROY • 248-689-8735
Circulation Jonathon Hofley
PONTIAC • 248-724-2300
Editorial Assistant Anna Doman
3301 John R • 1/4 mile north of 16 Mile Rd. 559 Orchard Lake Rd (at Goldner Walsh) Between Telegraph & Woodward
SHELBY TOWNSHIP • 248-659-8555
4343 24 Mile • Btwn Dequindre & Shelby Rd. CLOSED FOR WINTER
find us on
www.tellys.com
Photo: Jonathon Hofley / Michigan Gardener
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 © 2015 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.
Holiday Open House
Thursday, November 12, 5-9pm Friday & Saturday, November 13 & 14, 9am-5pm Sunday, November 15, 12-4pm
• Holiday and winter décor and ornament • Great natural materials for holiday and winter decorating including fresh cut twigs, a wide variety of cut greens, mosses, berries, garlands, twig trees and seed pods • Design and planting of holiday & winter containers • Holiday lighting and light sculptures • Unique gifts for gardeners • Custom-made wreaths, swags, garland, ribbons, holiday topiary, and wrap • Candles and decor for the holiday table, party & home
1794 Pontiac Drive • Sylvan Lake • 248-335-8089 • Shop Our Website—We Ship! DetroitGardenWorks.com
Celebrate the season at
Matthaei Botanical Gardens 11/28-Jan. 4
Exhibit - The Gift of Nature: 10 Plants that Changed the World
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Michigan Gardener | November/December 2015 | MichiganGardener.com
to-do list
Highlighting select conservatory plants and how they’ve benefited humans. Plus, “Forest & Tree” art exhibit, seasonal flower display and themed and decorated idea trees. Open house Nov. 28 includes seasonal items in the Garden Store. Free admission.
Annuals 11/28 Handspinners Holiday Fair Handspun yarns; knitted, woven, and felted products; accessories; ornaments; books; craft tools; and more. Free admission.
12/6 Artists Market at Matthaei
Container Gardens
A selection of art for sale in a variety of media from local, U-M, and regional artists. Free admission.
12/12 Annual Holiday Greens Market A holiday greens workshop. Wreath/arrangement materials provided. $15/person. Register through Ann Arbor Garden Club: 734.255.7912.
12/12 Wonders of Winter Children’s Program
always in season!
Info & more: mbgna.umich.edu 734.647.7600
• If possible, empty container gardens of soil and bring them into the garage. If that’s not possible, raise them off the ground so water flows through them easily. Cover with burlap and then plastic. Another option is to turn them upside down. The goal is to stop the pots from cracking by preventing the soil from expanding when the water in it freezes.
General
Kids accompanied by parents will create seasonal potpourri and evergreen boughs plus nature-themed paper crafts. $10 per child includes activities and materials. Registration requested: mbgna.umich.edu (select “Come Learn” then “Youth Programs”). MATTHAEI BOTANICAL GARDENS
• Clean up garden beds that were planted with summer annuals. Dispose of any diseased plants, but anything else can be added to the compost pile.
1800 N. Dixboro Rd. Ann Arbor, MI 48105
• Compost leaves to use as a great soil amendment next year. • When you are finished watering, it is a good idea to disconnect the hose from the faucet and empty any remaining water in the hose. Otherwise the water may freeze and damage it. • It may be cold outside, but that doesn’t mean the ground is frozen. Give your newly planted trees and shrubs a couple long last drinks of water before you put away the hoses. Even your established trees and shrubs would appreciate one last drink before the ground freezes. To help reduce winter stress on your evergreens, keep supplying water on a weekly basis as long as possible before the ground freezes.
Houseplants • Add a houseplant or two to your indoor garden and help purify the air. Adding just one 7- or 10-inch plant for every 100 square feet can help clean the air, add humidity and boost your mood. The best plants to clean the air include: areca palm, bamboo palm, Chinese evergreen, dracaena, Alii ficus, philodendron, peace lily, pothos, snake plant and spider plant.
Lawn • Mulch leaves, especially oak and maple leaves, into your lawn to help prevent lawn weeds next spring.
Perennials • Clean out perennial beds. Keep those perennials intact that have seed heads or evergreen or semi-evergreen foliage for winter interest. Some perennials have evergreen foliage with leaves that look good until the snow covers them, and even for a few weeks after the snow melts, including sage, germander, heuchera, hellebores, autumn fern, male fern, Christmas fern, Japanese tassel fern, many
sedges, Japanese sweet flag, liriope, wintergreen, plumbago and Stokes’ aster. • Consider adding some miniature or dwarf conifers to the garden, particularly if you’re tired of perennial beds being bare every winter. Their size is a good proportion to mix in with your perennials.
Putting the Garden to Bed for the Winter • Throughout the final clean-up and pruning process, be sure to make notes of what worked and what didn’t this year. Reviewing these notes later will help plan for next year. • On those grey days, take the time to winterize your tools so they’re ready for next spring. Give them a good cleaning, sharpening and oiling. Don’t forget the lawn mower blade! • Store pesticides in a place they won’t freeze so you’ll be able to use them again next year. • If you have a fountain, be sure to remove the pump so it doesn’t freeze. Empty the water, cover the fountain with burlap, then with a tarp. Plastic should not come in direct contact with the concrete. Moisture tends to build up at the contact points, and with a recurring freeze-thaw cycle, you may have spots on the fountain that flake or break.
Roses • Do not prune climbers or old-fashioned garden roses until after their first flush in spring. • Rose cones and burlap are used to hold the protective mulch around plants over the winter. Cut the tops off rose cones and add quarter-sized air holes, so plants don’t overheat. Before using burlap, use a saw to cut the entire roll to the right height. Cutting the entire length to the right height with your scissors could be a pain in your hand. Then install stakes, staple gun the burlap to the stakes, and fill with compost, leaves or mulch to about 6 inches deep. Put the mulch down after the soil is cool. The point is not to keep the plant warm, but to protect against freezing and thawing and winter winds.
Shrubs & Trees • Plant trees, shrubs and perennials right up until the ground freezes. Continue watering plants and soak the ground thoroughly when watering. • Protect broadleaf evergreens, Japanese maples and all newly planted trees and shrubs from blowing winter winds. The best way is to drive metal or wood stakes in the ground completely around the plants, then apply burlap to the stakes from the ground to the full height of the plant. Sometimes two or three courses are needed to fully protect tall plants.
MichiganGardener.com | November/December 2015 | Michigan Gardener
Feature Task: Growing and Caring for Orchids Exotic and elegant, colorful and unique, orchid plants make a bold statement in any room. Contrary to popular belief, orchid plants are relatively easy to grow. Proper watering is the key. Too much water is as detrimental as not enough water. Overwatering is the number one cause of death of orchids in the home. Unlike many houseplants that like an even, consistent moisture, most orchids thrive with a bit of neglect. Most need to dry out between waterings, which is about once a week. This varies depending on the season and stage of growth. Generally, water the plant when it feels light. Many orchids are epiphytes, and grow on the bark of trees. Water and nutrients are often stored in pseudo bulbs. Roots often emerge from pots to reach for a branch, rock, or something to cling on. Plants with roots exposed will enjoy an occasional misting when watering. Air circulation is important. Specially designed orchid pots with holes or slits in the sides are ideal for growing orchids. The growing medium should be porous, well drained, and somewhat moisture retentive. Depending on the genus, use pure sphagnum moss or a bark mixture amended with peat, perlite or charcoal. Most orchids benefit from increased humidity. Create a sub-environment in your home by placing the orchids on a humidity tray. Elevate orchid pots on a layer of gravel, rock, or even over-turned clay saucers to keep plants from sitting in water. Fertilize every week with a weak solution of a balanced 20-20-20: 1/4 to 1/2 of the manufacturer’s recommendations. For a customized program, switch to high nitrogen (30-10-10) fertilizer during the growing season (April through September) and use blossom booster (10-30-20) from October through March. While in bloom, orchids can survive in virtually any location in your house. Enjoying the beauty of the flowers is the best benefit • Do not cover the tops of plants with burlap. Fallen snow will become heavy and crush the plant. Also do not wrap burlap directly on the plant.
Wildlife • Keep birdfeeders clean and full during the winter months to attract birds to the garden throughout the season. • Provide a source of water for birds in the winter. Try a birdbath with a built-in heater or add a birdbath heater to keep the water from freezing. Provided by the professionals at English Gardens.
of growing orchids. Place your plant in a prominent place in your home or office, so you’ll receive maximum enjoyment. A closer look at several popular orchid varieties: Cattleya – Large showy flowers in white, lavender, purple, yellow and red. Cut flowers commonly used as corsages. Orchids bloom once a year for several weeks at a time. Cymbidium – Tall stems of gorgeous flowers in white, pink, red, green or yellow. They bloom once a year for 30 to 45 days or more. They’re primarily available October through April and again in July through August. Dendrobium – Easy to grow, and available in white, yellow, green, pink, red, purple, stripes or spots. They usually bloom at least two months and sometimes up to five, once or twice a year.
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Dendrobium Miltonia – Commonly known as the pansy orchid, featuring breathtakingly beautiful flowers. Many are fragrant. Oncidium – Small, distinct and airy blooms on tall stems. Easy to grow, and available in yellow, red, mahogany. They bloom once or twice a year for 30 to 45 days each. Paphiopedilum – Also known as lady slipper. Compact plants usually produce a single flower. Phalaenopsis – Commonly known as the moth orchid, one of the most popular and easiest to grow orchids. They’re available in a multiple of colors: white, yellow, pink, red, purple, or with stripes or spots, and will last at least two months, and can go up to 6 months or more with subsequent blooming.
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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 Garden Design & Maintenance Plus many more!
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College Admission Deadline: Dec 15 Final Registration: Jan. 7-8, 2016
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Michigan Gardener | November/December 2015 | MichiganGardener.com
Have a question? Send it in! Go to MichiganGardener.com and click on “Submit a question”
How to grow poinsettias How do you care for a poinsettia? C.L., Mio Protect the poinsettia (Euphorbia pulcherrima) from the elements on the trip home by wrapping it in newspaper or double brown paper bag. Place in a room with plenty of bright, natural light and away from drafts. A window that faces south, east or west is the best. Water only when the soil is dry to the touch, and discard excess water from the drip tray. Do not leave it wrapped in foil. Most people discard the poinsettia after the winter holidays because the maintenance schedule for this southern Mexico plant is meticulous. It was first introduced to the U.S. in 1825 by Joel Roberts Poinsett, the first U.S. ambassador to Mexico, who obtained plants from the wild. The University of Vermont Extension Service, Department of Plant and Soil Science, has an entire maintenance schedule published which is cleverly associated with the calendar holidays. If a particular poinsettia is especially important to you and you wish to keep it going all year, then go online
to www.uvm.ext to read the entire holiday maintenance schedule. It is simple to follow and could make a fun family project. Here is a summary: Associate your care schedule to the holidays. On New Year’s Day, fertilize with an allpurpose houseplant fertilizer per label directions and continue adequate light and water for prolonged bloom. Around Valentine’s Day, check the poinsettia for signs of insects like whitefly, a common pest of houseplants. If the plant becomes long and leggy, cut it back to about five inches tall. St. Patrick’s Day is a good time to add more clean potting soil and continue the light requirements. Memorial Day you should trim off 2 to 3 inches of branches to promote side branching and a fuller shape. Repot to a large container using sterile growing mix. Father’s Day you can move the plant outside for the summer but place in indirect light. Fourth of July, trim the plant again and move it into full sun. Continue to water and fertilize but increase the amount to accelerate growth.
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On Labor Day, move the plant indoors to a spot where it gets at least 6 hours of direct light daily. As new growth begins, begin to reduce the amount of fertilizer. On or near September 21, or the autumnal equinox, give the plant 13 hours of uninterrupted darkness, like in a closet or under a box, and 11 hours of bright light each day. Keep night temperatures in the low 60s and continue to water and fertilize. Rotate for even light. At Thanksgiving, discontinue the short day/long night regimen. Put the plant in a sunny area that gets at least 6 hours of direct light. Reduce the water and fertilizer. At Christmas, enjoy your “new” poinsettia!
Bug eating cauliflower leaves Some kind of bug ate the leaves on my cauliflower this summer. What could it be and how do I prevent this in the future? M., Pontiac Brassica is a genus of plants in the mustard family. Informally known as cruciferous vegetables, the term “cole crops” is derived from the Latin “caulis,” denoting the stem or stalk of a plant. Cauliflower is in this family, which includes cabbage, kale, broccoli, rutabaga, radishes and turnips. The most common pests are imported cabbageworm, cabbage looper, and diamondback moth. All three cause very similar damage. The cabbageworm adult is the small white butterfly with black spots seen flying everywhere during the day. If caught with a net and drowned in a bucket of soapy water, you can greatly reduce the egg laying and subsequent eruption of one-inch, velvety green caterpillars. The adult cabbage loopers are mottled gray brown moths that are nocturnal. The eggs are creamy white, round, and the size of a pinhead, laid most often on the undersides of the lower leaves. The larvae have no legs in their middle section. When the hind end moves to meet the front end as they move across the vegetation, it forms a loop. Check for caterpillars soon after planting. Check both sides of the leaves for larvae and eggs. Inspect plants weekly for additional hatchings. In fall, destroy all crop residue immediately after harvest to eliminate potential overwintering. Eliminate the weeds that are alternate hosts, such as wild mustard, peppergrass and shepherd’s purse. Handpicking caterpillars is most effective in small gardens. Drop them into a bucket of soapy water. Use lightweight floating row covers during the growing season to prevent the adults from laying eggs on the plants. Fit the covers over the cole crops at transplant
time. Encourage natural predators, such as paper wasps and parasitic wasps, who will eat or parasitize the caterpillar or pupae. Use the insecticide least toxic to natural enemies and pollinators. Neem is a plant-based insecticide which causes the insect to stop feeding and eventually die. Spinosad is derived from a naturally-occurring, soil-dwelling microorganism and provides excellent control without harming the good insects. “Bt” (Bacillus thuringiensis) is a naturally-occurring bacterium in the soil. It is specific to caterpillars because it must be ingested.
Identifying stubborn weed What is this horrendous weed and how do I eradicate it? R.A., Goodrich
Galium aparine has been particularly rampant this season. Common names are catchweed bedstraw, stickywilly, velcro plant, and white hedge. Native to North America and Eurasia, it is an annual broadleaf plant with a shallow-branching taproot. The stems are square and can grow up to 6 feet long. However, because the stems are weak, they clamber over upright plant species. Left on its own, bedstraw remains low and sprawling, forming dense, tangled masses. Bedstraw perfers shady, moist sites, but will tolerate full sun with enough moisture. Ample rainfall early this season provided optimum growing conditions. Reproducing by seed, it grows quickly and can flower within eight weeks of germination. Each plant can produce up to 400 seeds per year, viable for up to three years in the soil. It’s a strong competitor for nutrients, water and light when situated in an ornamental or vegetable garden. Hand removal before seed formation is the best option. Wear vinyl or rubber gloves as the seeds and stems with their sticky, hairlike growth will attach themselves to skin, fabric, other plants, and animal fur. Cutting back the plant without removing the root system is ineffective. Where this method was used, the plant produced 30 percent more vegetation than plants not cut. Note that applying glyphosate, the non-selective herbicide ingredient found in Roundup, will kill both the weed and desirable plants.
MichiganGardener.com | November/December 2015 | Michigan Gardener
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Artist’s Market, Musicians and Authors Featuring Huron Valley Council for the Arts Seeking shrub for fence line What are the best native shrubs for along the back fence of a garden? I thought of serviceberry and ninebark, but are there other choices also? J.B., Gladwin Although serviceberry (Amelanchier) is more often used as a multi-stem small tree, the ninebark (Physocarpus) adds great dense burgundy foliage for a backdrop to any garden. Depending on sun quality and space available, the blackhaw viburnum (Viburnum prunifolium) offers spring blossoms like the ninebark and excellent fall color as well. Also look into red chokeberry (Aronia arbutifolia) and Michigan holly (Ilex verticillata). The red berry fruit is persistent and provides a great accent in the winter landscape. Medium to smaller shrubs include New Jersey tea (Ceanothus americanus) and the buttonbush (Cephalanthus occidentalis). Ceanothus blooms showy white flowers in mid-summer that are attractive to hummingbirds. It prefers sandy loam or rocky soil with good drainage. Buttonbush is the go-to plant for wetter areas and thrives in high pH soils. Both attract butterflies.
green, you need to relocate the pot to a brighter location. Your German ivy may be suffering from lack of humidity, irregular watering, low light, and lean soil. Trim back the stunted growth, repot to a slightly larger container with new sterile potting soil, and keep the leaves misted regularly and the soil evenly moist. Check for spider mite activity and spray the leaves with diluted soapy water if you see any. Make sure this ivy is in a humid location as dry air gives spider mites prime living conditions.
Visit us for all your holiday decorating needs:
Poinsettias, Roping, Wreaths, Fresh Greens, Memorial Blankets Decorated & Undecorated
What is causing small holes I have noticed small holes in some of my plants’ leaves (sweet potato vine, morning glory, etc.). What is eating them? There are also some spider-type webs on shrubs nearby; not sure if that is related. K.V., Southfield
248-887-5101 3:22 PM Page White Lake www.bogielakegreenhouses.com
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Locating English Ivy indoors What location indoors is the best lighting for English ivy? Can it be placed directly on a windowsill or would a counter under the window be better? The leaves on my ivy are looking faded and dusty. What is the best way to clean the foliage? If ivy is kept outside during the summer, what type of light do they require? Will it thrive outside? Lastly, my German ivy has brown discoloring on the leaves; leaves fall off if you touch them and the stems are very fragile. What should I do? B., Flint English ivy (Hedera helix) prefers medium to bright light, average humidity, and cooler temperatures. Keep the soil evenly moist, especially in summer, as air conditioning dries out the air. A windowsill would be ideal if it is bright. To clean the leaves, mist spray them thoroughly over a sink until the leaves drip and look glossy again. Fertilize monthly with an all-purpose houseplant fertilizer. If the ivy is outside in summer, keep it out of direct light and keep it well-watered with good drainage. Never let the bottom of the pot sit in drained water. The ivy will enjoy outdoor high humidity and bright natural light. When you bring it in for the winter, check for insect pests so you don’t bring them into your house as well. In particular, watch for spider mites and aphids. Dry air encourages spider mites, as indicated by brown leaf tips. If leaves are small and spaced far apart, or a variegated leaf turns all
Saturday, Nov 21, 9am-5pm Sunday, Nov 22, 10am-5pm
Addressing the small holes in your plant leaves, these are most typically the work of flea beetles, earwigs or even potato beetles. All find ornamental plants tasty. Flea beetles are tiny black dots that hop from plant to plant, making it difficult to catch them in action. Earwigs like it moist and dark, making container plants prime candidates for the dinner buffet. Potato beetles are yellow and black striped and will eat whole leaves and stems. First, manage your watering practices. Water only when the soil is dry to the touch, reducing excessive moisture which earwigs like. Remove any debris from around and under the plants to eliminate hiding places. Use a diluted, soapy water spray regularly on your container plants to make the leaves unappetizing. Maintain good air circulation by pruning and keeping plants uncongested. The spider-like webs on nearby shrubs may be the work of spider mites. Generally they stipple the leaf by sucking out the juices rather than eating a hole. Leaves get a “peppered” look to them. Check to see if it is a garden spider, laying webbing to trap insect pests, or truly spider mites. You want to keep the garden spider, but the spider mites you want to wash away with a strong water blast from a hose. Answers provided by Beverly Moss, owner of Garden Rhythms.
1 1-1/2 Miles S. of M-59 Across from Lakeland H.S.
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734-453-5500
WE DO CHRISTMAS!
www.plymouthnursery.net Mon.-Thurs. 9am-6pm • Fri. 9am-7pm Sat. 9am-6pm • Sun. 10am-5pm
9900 Ann Arbor Rd W 7 Miles East of US-23 • 7 Miles West of I-275 1 1/2 Miles South of M-14 Corner of Gotfredson Rd.
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Michigan Gardener | November/December 2015 | MichiganGardener.com
Encyclopedia of Garden Plants for Every Location Edited by James Gagliardi
DeerPro
Deer HATE it...You'll LOVE it! ONE application lasts ALL winter. Call 248-588-0202 for your FREE estimate! Deer will cause millions of dollars in landscape damage this year... Damage that can be prevented!
• DeerPro is the longest-lasting deer repellent on the market. • DeerPro does NOT need to be re-applied in the snow and ice of winter, unlike other repellents that last only a few weeks. • DeerPro lasts all winter. One spray as early as October will provide protection until early spring. • DeerPro is a professional strength repellent that can only be purchased and applied by licensed professionals.
Including more than 3,000 recommendations from gardening experts, Encyclopedia of Garden Plants for Every Location (DK Publishing, 400 pages, $40) includes planting suggestions for over 30 types of sites. Covering everything from notoriously dry ground by a hedge or fence to cracks in walls or paving, this reference book explains how to assess the site and soil, and presents a wide range of plant partners and planting schemes. Produced in association with the Smithsonian Institution, this comprehensive work will be useful for gardeners. They can use the plant recipes or select from the thousands of plants highlighted to design their own unique space. With this book, readers can confidently choose the proper plant to suit their conditions, leading to a thriving and sustainable garden.
A Garden of Marvels by Ruth Kassinger
In A Garden of Marvels (William Morrow/Harper Collins, 416 pages, $16.99), Ruth Kassinger extends the story of her first book, Paradise Under Glass. Frustrated by plants that fail to thrive, Kassinger sets out to understand the basics of botany in order to become a better gardener. She retraces the progress of the first botanists who banished myths and misunderstandings and discovered that leaves eat air, roots choose their food, and hormones make morning glories climb fence posts. She also visits modern gardens, farms, and labs to discover the science behind extraordinary plants like one-ton pumpkins, a truly black petunia, a bio-fuel grass that grows 12 feet tall, and the world’s only photosynthesizing animal. The author introduces the basic botany of plants—flowers, roots, stems, and leaves—and explains how they function together. Combining science and botanical knowledge, and illustrated with more than two dozen black and white drawings, A Garden of Marvels is a journey of discovery that offers fresh and unexpected insights into the natural world.
Growing Healthy Houseplants by Ellen Zachos
248-588-0202 www.mikestree.com Licensed & Insured
Many of us feel like our home—or our office—just isn’t complete without a plant or two to keep our space cheery and the air we breathe clean and fresh. Unfortunately, we weren’t all born with green thumbs; we need help not just in choosing the right houseplants but also in keeping those plants alive and thriving. Growing Healthy Houseplants (Storey Basics, 128 pages, $8.95) is intended for the novice houseplant owner. The author breaks the often intimidating role of plant guardianship down into four easy steps that anyone can master: accurately evaluate your light, choose a plant that suits your light, apply the right watering techniques, and watch it grow. She also explains when plants should be repotted (and how to do it), how and when to prune them, how to keep them clean from dust, and more. Featuring in-depth profiles of 31 plants, Growing Healthy Houseplants will help indoor gardeners keep most any houseplant thriving and beautiful.
Hidden Lake Gardens BOTA N IC A L G A R DEN & A R BOR ET U M
Evening of Lights: Friday, Dec 4 & Sunday, Dec 6, 5-8pm Holiday Festival: Saturday, Dec 5, 4-8pm
Light can transform your landscape.
• Beauty
OVER 2000 CANDLE-LIT LUMINARIES DISPLAYED!
755 Acres of Gardens and Natural Areas
Lighting designed to enhance • Safety • Security
Accentuate the features of your property - excellent return on investment. Extend your living space after sunset - enjoy your landscape like never before.
Flower Gardens • Plant Conservatory • Hosta Hillside Dwarf Conifers • Picnic Area • Lake Hiking Trails • Weddings and Tours by appointment
517-431-2060 • hiddenlakegardens.msu.edu • OPEN DAILY
Trust our technical expertise, attention to detail and years of experience.
Christmas Décor! Christmas wreaths • Poinsettias • Garden gifts
We are landscape lighting specialists it’s our only business.
6214 Monroe Rd. (M-50) in Tipton • 8 Miles W. of Tecumseh
Fashion jewelry • We are a fun and unique place to shop year-round!
ON A COLD WINTER’S DAY, stop by our warm greenhouse and see our amazing selection of indoor bonsai plants!
Bonsai – Michigan’s largest bonsai nursery Indoor: Ficus, Fukien Tea, Bougainvillea, and many more.
Residential - Commercial
schuman landscape lighting .com
See our Bonasi & Water Garden photos at www.FlowerMarketDundee.com
O pe ro n un ye d! ar -
We have something for everyone: From $3 starter plants up to $6,000 very mature, exceptional bonsai trees • Tools • Wire Japanese & Chinese pots • Soil • Mud Men • Ongoing classes
8930 South Custer Rd. (M-50) • 5 mi East of Cabela’s on M-50 Monroe, MI 48161 • 734-269-2660 • Find us on
Wreath Decorating Workshop Saturday, November 21, 12noon
Porch Pot Workshop Friday, November 27, 12noon
Garden Center & Nursery
Cost for each Workshop: $40 incl. matls. Pre-registration required by November 17 734-663-7600 or jan@turnersannarbor.com
WINTER WONDERLAND IN THE GREENHOUSE…
Holiday Hours begin Nov 29: Mon-Sat 9-6 Sunday 11-4
y Poinsettias—Grown on-site y Fresh-Cut Trees—Michigan-grown y Porch Pots and Baskets y Wreaths, Roping & Memorial Blankets y Ornaments, Gifts & so much more! 4431 South Wagner Rd, Ann Arbor, MI 48103
734-663-7600 • turnersannarbor.com
(248) 761-9377
Contact us for a consultation
Auburn Oaks GARDEN CENTER
High quality plants & service for your garden success since 1964.
Roping Gift Ideas Fresh-Cut Christmas Trees Auburn Oaks Handmade Memorial Blankets Fresh-made Evergreen Wreaths
$5.00 OFF
$2.00 OFF
$2.00 OFF
EXPIRES 12-13-15 / WITH COUPON / NO LIMIT
EXPIRES 12-13-15 / WITH COUPON / NO LIMIT
EXPIRES 12-13-15 / WITH COUPON / NO LIMIT
Full Size Memorial Blankets
$2.00 OFF Memorials
Fresh Evergreen Wreaths
$5.00 OFF
Cedar—White Pine Garland
20% OFF
Pillow or 1/2 blanket
Fresh Cut Christmas Trees (Reg. Price $25 and up)
Any One Regular Priced Garden Tool
EXPIRES 12-13-15 / WITH COUPON / NO LIMIT
EXPIRES 12-13-15 / WITH COUPON
EXPIRES 12-13-15 / WITH COUPON
3820 West Auburn Rd (2 blocks E of Adams) • Rochester Hills • 248-852-2310 www.auburnoaksnursery.com Mon-Sat 8-5:30 Sun 10-5
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Michigan Gardener | November/December 2015 | MichiganGardener.com
tree tips 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.
The Year in Review Thursday, November 5, 2015, 6:30-9pm
Join us for this open forum where we share what we learned over the past growing season. This informative meeting takes place at the Spicer House in Farm. Hills. Please note: This meeting is for APG members only. Please visit our web site for information on joining the APG! Sat, March 12, 2016: 18th Annual APG Conference at Waldenwoods Resort in Hartland. Details will be announced in January by email, Facebook & APG website. Please check our website for updates throughout the winter months 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
Christmas trees Special purchase: Beautiful Fraser Firs
Starting at $1999 Gift cards • Fairy gardens and accessories • CEMETERY WREATHS • GRAVE BLANKETS
• We can custom decorate for you! • Swags • Cedar garlands • Poinsettias—All sizes & all colors! • Christmas centerpieces
Indoor growing supplies—stop in and check out our LOW prices!
6414 N. Merriman • Westland • 734-421-5959 Located between Ford & Warren Roads Check our website for more information: www.barsons.com Join us on Facebook for early notices on sales and events
Abiotic disorders of plants These non-biological factors affect the health of your plants Part 2 of 2 Part one of this two-part series appeared in the June 2015 issue of Michigan Gardener. If you missed it, you can read it by visiting MichiganGardener.com, clicking on “Digital Edition,” and selecting the June 2015 issue. A brief review: While “abiotic disorder” sounds scientific, it is simply a way to categorize and help solve problems with plants. Abiotic disorder simply means the problem cause is not biological. Easier yet, it is not an insect or disease that is causing the plant to decline; it is something to do with the growing environment, weather, cultural practices, mechanical damage, chemical inputs, nutrients, and the list goes on. When I am called out to diagnose a problem, it is my job as an arborist to figure out both the main problem and the contributing factors that have led to it. In almost all cases it is a combination of both biological (biotic) and non-biological (abiotic) factors. There are exceptions to this statement, such as invasive insects Steve and wilt diseases such as emerald Turner ash borer or Dutch elm disease, but in most cases the plant is weakened by abiotic factors that set it up for biotic problems that cause further decline or death. In part one, I covered cultural practices, by far the most common causes for abiotic problems. That article included improper planting, pesticides and fertilizers, incorrect pruning techniques, herbicides, improperly placed mulch, and mechanical damage. Here, in part two, let’s review additional cultural practices that cause abiotic disorders.
Water Water, whether through irrigation or standing water in low areas, is a common problem. Too much water can be worse than not enough. In terms of water, trees can be divided into two basic categories: upland or lowland. If you plant a lowland tree on a berm, or alternatively, a highland tree in a wet area, you are going to have an unhappy plant. Matching the tree with the right environmental conditions can avoid sickly plants. Overhead irrigation that is applied to foliage on a daily basis can cause fungal problems on many plants. Deciduous plants will develop leaf spot diseases that cause defoliation. Evergreens that tend to be more susceptible to needle cast diseases seem to be most affected by these moist conditions. Do you have a browning juniper or a thinning blue
spruce? Watch your sprinkler system and see if the areas of the plant that are being sprayed are the same areas that look the worst. By keeping the foliage moist on a regular basis you create the ideal environment for the fungus to thrive. Adjust the head, reduce the frequency, or replace the water supply to a drip or bubbler head. Conditions will improve, with no need for pesticides. When it comes to irrigation, what’s good for the lawn is often bad for the landscape. The frequency and volumes of water needed are often the opposite. Lawns like frequent, low volumes, while established landscape plants prefer larger volumes less frequently. Unfortunately, since most systems are designed for the lawn it’s the landscape plants that suffer. Either update your irrigation to a more modern system that delivers water at the roots in beds or shut bed zones off and water them by hand as needed.
Weather Weather is the big variable that we have no control over when it comes to plants. We are at the mercy of Mother Nature and what she throws at us. The last two winters have killed many weak or marginally hardy plants in our area and damaged many others. For many years gardeners have been able to use many zone 6 plants in the landscape with good success until now. Those, and even some zone 5 plants have been severely damaged, making us rethink their viability in our landscapes for the long run. Some of the most affected plants include ornamental cherry, sweetgum, privet (especially “golden”), weigela, boxwood, and Japanese maple. Even some natives like redbuds and dogwoods have been damaged.
Finding protected areas with minimal exposure might be the difference between success or failure for sensitive plants and is a common practice. However, often overlooked when planning a landscape is reflected heat from buildings and paved areas.
MichiganGardener.com | November/December 2015 | Michigan Gardener
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If the affected plant is a shrub, odds are the rootstock survived but the top has died back. The plant can be pruned back and allowed to regrow. Not a big deal for an individual plant, but if you if have a 40-foot long hedgerow of privets that blocks out the neighbors and now it’s only 2 feet high, that’s a problem. You might want to find a hardier species to replace it with, as this is bound to happen again. If it’s a tree that has been damaged, it will be a case-by-case determination depending on how much damage has occurred and whether the plant will be able to recover and look normal in time or be a constant eyesore for years to come. Also keep in mind that if we have another brutal winter, all your efforts to restore the plant through pruning may be in vain and you could lose it anyway. I would suggest that if the tree is a large specimen in an important location, then try and save it. If it is smaller or in a less important location, then remove and replace it with a hardier species.
Microclimates Microclimates within a landscape can either be a pro or con. Finding protected areas with minimal exposure might be the difference between success or failure for sensitive plants and is a common practice. However, often overlooked when planning a landscape is
reflected heat from buildings and paved areas. A typical example of this is Alberta spruce planted near the house. The back side is often thinner or dead, depending on the amount of reflected heat bouncing off the building. Brick or stone tend to be worse than others. The darker the color, the more heat collects. This excess heat has a drying effect on the foliage and creates an ideal environment for spider mites that further weaken the plant. This is also common for burning bush. Some thin-leafed species like Japanese maples can suffer leaf scorch from heat reflected off buildings or paved surfaces, especially asphalt. In the case of parking lot trees or other trees surrounded by hard surfaces, few plants thrive in these circumstances. Most just hang around and slowly decline until they are replaced. The bottom line is that while we can’t predict all the biotic problems your landscape plants may face, we can predict many just by where they are located and what cultural practices they are subjected to. We know that many of these issues can be prevented with proper planning and care, but there will always be unpredictable weather patterns that might impact even the best laid plans. Steve Turner, Certified Arborist, is from Arboricultural Services in Fenton, MI.
Uncle Luke’s
Michigan’s Largest
Environment • Ecology • Native Plant Design We have SUSTAINABLE SOLUTIONS for you: • Rampant weeds? INVASIVE SPECIES CONTROL • Eroding shoreline? BIOENGINEERING • Wet ground or basement? RAIN GARDENS • Veggies not producing? WILDFLOWERS FOR BEES! • Sick trees? Buckthorn thickets? FORESTRY • Retention pond problem? WETLANDS CONSULTING • Want wildlife? BIRD & BUTTERFLY GARDENS • Unidentified animals or plants? SPECIES ID!
NaturalCommuNityServiCeS.webS.Com John DeLisle, Principal Ecologist 248-672-7611 • j_delisle@hotmail.com
GARDEN RHYTHMS CREATIVE SOLUTIONS FOR RESIDENTIAL LANDSCAPES
• Renovation Specialists • Ornamental Pruning • Seasonal Containers • Maintenance & Redesign • Garden Coaching Certified Master Gardeners & Designers
248-217-6459 bevinbloom@gmail.com
Selection of Amaryllis Bulbs! We dwarf the state with 28 different varieties
210 South Ashley Ann Arbor MI 48104
734.662.8122
M-Sat 7:30 -7
Oakland County Market 2350 Pontiac Lake Road, Waterford, MI 48328 248.858.5495 • DestinationOakland.com
Fresh cut Christmas Trees Wreaths • Roping • Grave Blankets
We hand-pick our Christmas Trees so you get the BEST of the BEST: Fraser Fir • Concolor Fir • Douglas Fir • Spruce • Scotch Pine
• Wildlife & Bird Feeds • Winter plant protection supplies
Huge selection of wild bird seed & feeding equipment
Wilt Pruf, burlap, & more
• Pet & animal food Taste of the Wild • Natural Balance • Iams Fromm • Canidae • Solid Gold • Wysong Lotus • California Natural • Wellness Eukanuba • Chicken Soup • NutriSource
BEST SELECTION of ORGANIC fertilizers and soil amendments in Southeastern Michigan Featuring
HOLIDAY SHOPPING NIGHTS Thurs, Dec. 3 4:30 - 7:30 p.m. Thurs, Dec. 10 4:30 - 7:30 p.m.
May to December Hours: Tuesday, Thursday & Saturday: 7 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
organic fertilizers & soil amendments
Uncle Luke’s Feed Store 6691 Livernois, Troy • (1/4 Mile S. of South Blvd.) • 248-879-9147 www.unclelukes.com • Mon-Fri 9-6:30 • Sat 8-6 • Sun 9-5 Visit our 2nd location in Flushing: Flushing Lawn & Garden • 810-659-6241
Sun 10 -5
www.downtownhomean dgarden.com
facebook.com/OakCountyMarket Grower-direct fresh produce and flowers, baked goods, artisan crafts and more!
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Michigan Gardener | November/December 2015 | 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.
eastpointe Columbiaville, Davison
Bay City, Burton, Clio, Gladwin, Midland, Saginaw
North Branch
Lapeer
Emmett
Lennon
Port Huron
Hadley Dryden
Grand Blanc
Flint
Bancroft, Owosso
Lakeport
Imlay City
Flushing
Metamora
H English Gardens 22501 Kelly Rd, MI 48021 586-771-4200 www.EnglishGardens.com H Drew’s Garden
Wilczewski Greenhses
imlay city
fenton Gerych’s Flowers/Gift Fenton
Oxford
Ortonville
Orion
Hartland
Holly White Lake Waterford
White Lake Highland
Howell East Lansing, Fowlerville, Grand Rapids, Haslett, Lansing, Mason, Williamston
Bloomfield Hills Birmingham
West Bloomfield
Walled Lake Wixom Brighton
Rochester Hills
New Hudson South Lyon
Whitmore Lake
Novi Northville
Farmington Hills Farmington
Wayne
Sterling Hts.
Southfield Oak Park Ferndale
Dearborn Dearborn Heights
Ypsilanti
Taylor Belleville
Romulus
Saline New Boston
Tipton
Troy
Eastpointe
Grosse Pointes
Tecumseh
Brownstown Twp.
Southgate Trenton Grosse Ile
La Salle, Monroe
brighton H Beauchamp Landscp Supp Bordine’s Brighton Farmer’s Mkt Cowbell Lawn/Gard Leppek Nurs H Meier Flowerland H Nature’s Home & Garden Ctr
brownstown twp Bruce’s Pond Shop Raupp Brothers Gard Ctr H 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 almont American Tree
ann arbor H Abbott’s Nurs H 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 H State Crushing
bancroft Grand Oak Herb Farm
bay city 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
H Walker Farms & Greenhouse 5253 E. Atherton Rd., MI 48519 810-743-0260 www.walkersfarm.com
canton Canton Floral Gardens Clink Nurs Crimboli Nurs H Wild Birds Unltd
cement city Hallson Gardens
chelsea
bloomfield hills
H Garden Mill 110 S. Main St., MI 48118 734-475-3539 www.thegardenmill.com
Backyard Birds
The Potting Shed
birmingham
chesterfield
berkley Garden Central
H Blossoms 33866 Woodward Ave, MI 48009 248-644-4411 www.blossomsbirmingham.com Tiffany Florist
clinton twp H English Gardens 44850 Garfield Rd, MI 48038 586-286-6100 www.EnglishGardens.com Michigan Koi H Tropical Treasures
clio H Piechnik’s Grnhse & Gdn Ctr 13172 McCumsey Rd, MI 48420 810-686-9211 www.cliogreenhouse.com
Westland
Ann Arbor
flushing
Clinton Twp.
Detroit
Canton
Masserant’s Feed Store
New Baltimore
Utica
Livonia Redford
Dexter
Manchester
flat rock
Macomb
St. Clair Berkley Roseville Shores Madison Royal Oak Heights Warren
Plymouth
Cement City, Chelsea, Grass Lake, Jackson, Stockbridge
ferndale Casual Modes Home/Gard
Shelby Twp.
Auburn Hills
Sylvan Lake Commerce
Ray
Rochester
Pontiac
Milford
Washington
Oakland
Clarkston
H Heavenly Scent Herb Farm 13730 White Lake Rd., MI 48430 810-629-9208 www.heavenlyscentherbfarm.com
Addison Twp.
columbiaville Hilltop Barn
commerce twp 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
H Flushing Lawn & Garden Ctr 114 Terrace St., MI 48433 810-659-6241 www.unclelukes.com
H Earthly Arts Greenhse
jackson The Hobbit Place
lake orion 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
lapeer H The Iron Barn
lasalle Fowler’s Gift Shop
lennon Krupps Novelty Shop
livonia
H Arrowhead Alpines
Bushel Mart H George’s Livonia Gard Superior Growers Supp Valley Nurs
gladwin
macomb
H Stone Cottage Gardens 3740 W. Willford Rd., MI 48624 989-426-2919 www.stonecottagegardens.com
Altermatt Greenhses Boyka’s Greenhse Deneweth’s Garden Ctr H Elya’s Village Gardens H Landscape Source Joe Randazzo’s Nurs Olejnik Farms Wade Nurs Wiegand’s Nursery
fowlerville
grand blanc Bordine’s H The Weed Lady 9225 Fenton Rd., MI 48439 810-655-2723 www.theweedlady.com
manchester McLennan Nurs
grass lake
mason
H Designs by Judy Florist & Grnhse 3250 Wolf Lake Rd., MI 49240 517-522-5050 www.designsbyjudyflowers.com
Wildtype Nurs
grosse ile
Milford Gardens H The Pond Place
H Westcroft Gardens 21803 West River Rd., MI 18138 734-676-2444 www.westcroftgardens.com
grosse pointe Allemon’s Landscp Ctr Meldrum & Smith Nurs
metamora Gilling’s Nurs
milford monroe H The Flower Market
new baltimore H Meldrum Bros Nurs
new boston
H Wild Birds Unltd
H Gorham & Sons Nurs H Grass Roots Nurs Mums the Word
hadley
new hudson
H Le Fleur Décor 3442 Hadley Rd., MI 48440 586-495-4076 Find us on Facebook
H Milarch Nursery 28500 Haas Rd., MI 48165 248-437-2094 www.milarchnursery.com
Eastern Market
hartland
dexter
Deneweth’s Garden Ctr
north branch
detroit H Detroit Farm and Garden 1759 21st St., MI 48216 313-655-2344 www.detroitfarmandgarden.com
H Bloom! Gard Ctr 1885 Baker Rd., MI 48130 734-426-6600 www.bloom-gardens.com Dexter Mill
clarkston
H Fraleighs Landscape Nursery 8600 Jackson Rd., MI 48130 734-426-5067 www.fraleighs.com
Bordine’s Country Oaks Landscp I Lowrie’s Landscp H The Pond Source
H Guthrie Gardens 870 N. Lima Center Rd., MI 48130 734-475-8898 Open Fri/Sat, please call for hours
Van Thomme’s Greenhses
H Specialty Growers 4330 Golf Club Rd., MI 48843 517-546-7742 www.specialtygrowers.net
farmington hills Angelo’s Landscp Supp Farmer John’s Greenhse Loeffler Stone Ctr H Steinkopf Nurs
Almont
Penrose Nurs
grosse pointe woods
haslett Christian’s Greenhse H Van Atta’s Greenhse
highland
H Campbell’s Greenhouses H Oldani Landscape Nurseries 2666 Tozer Rd., MI 48461 810-688-2363 www.oldanilandscapenurseries.com
Colasanti’s Produce/Plant Fragments Highland Garden Ctr H One Stop Landscp Supp
northville
howell
novi
H Howell Farmer’s Market Dwntn Howell @ State & Clinton Sts. 517-546-3920 www.howell.org/19.html
Begonia Brothers Gardenviews H Willow Greenhouses Glenda’s Gard Ctr H Wild Birds Unltd
MichiganGardener.com | November/December 2015 | Michigan Gardener
oak park Four Seasons Gard Ctr
oakland H Piechnik’s Garden Gate 1095 N. Rochester Rd., MI 48363 586-336-7200 www.cliogreenhouse.com
ortonville Country Oaks Landscp II H Wojo’s Greenhse 2570 Oakwood Rd., MI 48462 248-627-6498 www.wojos.com
owosso H Everlastings in Wildwood
oxford Candy Cane Xmas Trees Oxford Farm/Gard
plymouth Backyard Birds Graye’s Greenhse Lucas Nurs H Plymouth Nursery 9900 Plymouth Rd., MI 48170 734-453-5500 www.plymouthnursery.net Plymouth Rock & Supp Rock Shoppe Sparr’s Greenhse
pontiac Goldner Walsh Gard/Home H Telly’s at Goldner Walsh 559 Orchard Lake Rd., MI 48341 248-724-2300 www.tellys.com
ray Van’s Valley Greenhse
redford H Pinter Flowerland Seven Mi Gard Ctr
rochester Fogler’s Greenhse Sherwood Forest Gard Ctr
rochester hills H Auburn Oaks Garden Ctr 3820 W. Auburn Rd, MI 48309 248-852-2310 www.auburnoaksnursery.com Bordine’s H Haley Stone 3975 S. Rochester Rd., MI 48307 248-852-5511 www.haleystone.net H Shades of Green Nurs H Wild Birds Unltd
romulus
H Telly’s Greenhouse 4343 24 Mile, MI 48316 248-659-8555 www.tellys.com
south lyon Hollow Oak Farm Nurs Mike’s Garden Stone Depot Landscp Supp H Tuthill Farms
southfield 3 DDD’s Stand Eagle Landscp/Supp Lavin’s Flower Land Main’s Landscp Supp
trenton Carefree Lawn Ctr
troy H Telly’s Greenhouse 3301 John R Rd., MI 48083 248-689-8735 www.tellys.com H Uncle Luke’s Feed Store 6691 Livernois Rd., MI 48098 248-879-9147 www.unclelukes.com
Block’s Stand/Greenhse H Kurtzhals’ Farms H Schoedel’s Nurs
southgate H Ray Hunter Gard Ctr
walled lake
H Schwartz’s Greenhouse 30705 Sibley Rd., MI 48174 734-753-9269 www.schwartzgreenhouse.com
Greenhouse Growers Hall’s Nurs Soulliere Gard Ctr
roseville Dale’s Landscp Supp World Gardenland
royal oak Billings Lawn Equip H Button’s Rent-It 1126 S. Washington Ave., MI 48067 248-542-5835 www.buttonsrentit.com H English Gardens 4901 Coolidge Hwy, MI 48073 248-280-9500 www.EnglishGardens.com H Wild Birds Unltd
saginaw H Abele Grnhse & Garden Ctr 3500 Wadsworth Rd., MI 48601 989-752-5625 www.abelegreenhouse.com
saline H Nature’s Garden Ctr H Saline Flowerland
shelby twp Diegel Greenhses H Hessell’s Greenhse Maeder Plant Farm Potteryland
st clair shores
warren
sterling heights Decor Statuette
washington
H Eckert’s Greenhouse 34075 Ryan Rd., MI 48310 586-979-2409 www.eckertsgreenhouse.com Flower Barn Nurs Prime Landscp Supp
stockbridge Gee Farms
dryden
Angelo’s Landscp Supp Brainer’s Greenhse Milford Tree Farm
Seven Ponds Nature Ctr
west bloomfield
ypsilanti
H English Gardens 6370 Orchard Lake Rd., 48322 248-851-7506 www.EnglishGardens.com Planterra
white lake H Bogie Lake Greenhouses 1525 Bogie Lake Rd., MI 48383 248-887-5101 www.bogielakegreenhouses.com
Landscp Direct Miller’s Big Red Greenhse H Rocks ‘n’ Roots United Plant Ctr
H Mulligan’s Landscp & Gard Ctr Sunshine Plants
waterford Breen’s Landscp Supp Hoffman Nurs H Merrittscape
H MSU Horticultural Gardens W.J. Beal Botanical Gard
Coleman’s Farm Mkt Lucas Nurs Margolis Nurs Materials Unlimited Sell Farms & Greenhse
emmett H Sunny Fields Botanical Park 5444 Welch Rd., MI 48022 810-387-2765 www.visitsunnyfields.org
grand rapids Frederik Meijer Gardens
grosse pointe shores Edsel & Eleanor Ford Hse
lansing
bloomfield hills
Cooley Gardens
H Cranbrook Gardens 380 Lone Pine Rd., MI 48303 248-645-3147 housegardens.cranbrook.edu
midland
clinton township
Tollgate Education Ctr
Dahlia Hill Dow Gardens
novi
Tomlinson Arboretum
royal oak
dearborn
Detroit Zoo
williamston
detroit
Christian’s Greenhse
Applewood
H Matthaei Botanical Gardens/ Nichols Arboretum 1800 North Dixboro Rd., MI 48105 734-647-7600 www.mbgna.umich.edu
H Alexander’s Greenhses
H AguaFina Gardens International 2629 Orchard Lake Rd., MI 48320 248-738-0500 www.aguafina.com
flint
ann arbor
Arjay Miller Arboretum at Ford World HQ Henry Ford Estate
whitmore lake
sylvan lake
east lansing
Gardens to Visit
westland
Bushel Stop Joe Randazzo’s Nurs Merlino’s Bushel Ctr Panetta’s Landscp
H Suburban Landscp Supp Beste’s Lawn/Patio Supp Garden Ctr Nurs H Young’s Garden Mart
wixom
H Barson’s Greenhse 6414 N. Merriman Rd., MI 48185 734-421-5959 www.barsons.com
utica Dale’s Landscp Supp Stonescape Supp
H Oakland County Market 2350 Pontiac Lake Rd., MI 48328 248-858-5495 www.DestinationOakland.com
tipton H Hidden Lake Gardens 6214 Monroe Rd. (M-50), MI 49287 517-431-2060 www.hiddenlakegardens.msu.edu
Anna S Whitcomb Conservtry
The perfect gift for the gardener on your list.
H Detroit Garden Works
taylor H Beautiful Ponds & Gardens 20379 Ecorse, MI 48180 313-383-8653 www.skippysstuff.com D&L Garden Ctr Massab Acres H Panetta’s Landscp Supp
tecumseh Mitchell’s Lawn/Landscp
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Advertiser Index Assoc. of Professional Gardeners...............12 Auburn Oaks Gard Ctr..................11 Barson’s Greenhouse...................12 Blossoms............................................17 Bogie Lake Greenhouses..............9 Detroit Garden Works...................5 Downtown Home & Garden �����13 English Gardens.....................Page 3 The Flower Market.........................11 The Garden Mill..............................17 Garden Rhythms.............................13
name A Garden Space................................7 Hidden Lake Gardens....................11 Iron Barn Iron Work.......................17 Master Gardener Society of Oakland Cty �����������������6 Matthaei Botanical Gardens.......6 Mike’s Tree Surgeons...................10 Milarch Nursery................................7 Natural Community Services....................13 Oakland Community College.....7 Oakland Cty Market......................13
Plymouth Nursery............................9 Schuman Landscape Lighting.........................11 Steinkopf Nursery............................8 Telly’s Greenhouse..........................4 Turner’s Landscp & Gard Ctr......11 Tuthill Farms & Composting......16 Uncle Luke’s Feed Store...............13 Van Atta’s Greenhouse......... Inside Frt Cover The Weed Lady.....Inside Frt Cover Wojo’s..................... Inside Frt Cover
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Classified Ads HELP WANTED - Sterling Hts. horticultural company looking for full/part-time gardeners with perennials/annuals experience. JOB: Residential maintenance throughout SE Michigan. Hourly wage dependent on experience. Send Resume: pat@agardenspace. com. Call: 586-991-6389 or 586-214-9852. FRUSTRATED BY ALL THE TECHNOLOGY in your life? Barrett Computer Strategies helps folks just like you. Since 1986. Computer, smartphone, TV, tablet, WiFi network. I can analyze your needs, set-up, train & support you. Put an end to your technology hassles—Email or call Dave Barrett: coachbarrett4@gmail.com or 248-770-4541. MICHIGAN GARDENER E-NEWSLETTER Sign up for our free e-newsletter! We send out a few each year, and there are contests to win prizes as well. Go to www.MichiganGardener. com and simply enter your e-mail address.
HARDY PLANT SOCIETY GREAT LAKES CHAPTER - Upcoming 2016 speakers (Mondays at 7:00pm) - Jan. 4: Joseph Tychonievich: “How Plants Got Their Stripes: The Science of Variegated & Patterned Leaves.” Feb. 8: Julia Hofley: “Michigan Gardener Road Trips.” Mar. 7: Susan Martin: “If You Could Only Pick One: Perennial Gold Standards.” Apr. 4: Sandy Wilkins: “The Heartbeat of the Garden.” For more info: www.hardyplantsociety-greatlakes.org. DON’T LOOK. Oops, you looked. And so will 70,000 potential customers. Advertise in Michigan Gardener. Call 248-594-5563 or e-mail publisher@MichiganGardener.com. GARDEN SPEAKER AVAILABLE for your club or group. Well-traveled garden writer does garden presentations & travelogues. This active collector gardener can speak on many subjects. Experienced to present at Garden Ctr open houses & conferences. For presentation list, biography, fee & references, contact Julia Hofley at Julia@juliasbiglife.com. 248-4972674. Find me on Facebook. ADVERTISING SALES REP – Michigan Gardener has a part-time opportunity available. Advertising sales experience is preferred. Please forward your resume to: publisher@ MichiganGardener.com.
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Precipitation September 2015
NORMAL Monthly 3.27 3.75 3.50
NORMAL Yr. to Date 25.7 24.31 24.59
Detroit Flint Lansing
ACTUAL Monthly 1.29 3.51 1.34
DEVIATION from Normal -1.98 -0.24 -2.16
2015 Year to Date: Jan 1 - Sept 30 Detroit Flint Lansing
ACTUAL Yr. to Date 23.27 22.88 27.67
DEVIATION from Normal -2.43 -1.43 3.08
September 2014
NORMAL
Monthly 3.27 3.75 3.50
ACTUAL Monthly 4.71 3.25 2.54
DEVIATION from Normal 1.44 -0.5 -0.96
2014 Year to Date: Jan 1 - Sept 30
NORMAL
Yr. to Date 25.7 24.31 24.59
ACTUAL Yr. to Date 32.13 30.24 29.76
DEVIATION from Normal 6.43 5.93 5.17
Temperature September 2015
September 2014
Detroit Flint Lansing
NORMAL Avg. High 73.7 71.9 72
ACTUAL Avg. High 79.2 79.5 76.8
DEVIATION from Normal 5.5 7.6 4.8
ORMAL N Avg. High 73.7 71.9 72
ACTUAL Avg. High 73.3 73.7 71.6
DEVIATION from Normal -0.4 1.8 -0.4
Detroit Flint Lansing
NORMAL Avg. Low 54.1 49.4 48.9
ACTUAL Avg. Low 59.4 56.4 56.2
DEVIATION from Normal 5.3 7.0 7.3
ORMAL N Avg. Low 54.1 49.4 48.9
ACTUAL Avg. Low 53.7 50.8 50.1
DEVIATION from Normal -0.4 1.4 1.2
Data courtesy National Weather Service
MichiganGardener.com | November/December 2015 | Michigan Gardener
17
calendar
for the Home And Garden
November / December / January / February / March / April
November H Ray Hunter Holiday Premiere Event Sun, Nov 1, Through Dec 8, Southgate. At Ray Hunter Florist & Garden. A week full of holiday surprises. 734284-2500, www.rayhunter.com. Mark Roberts Fairies & Elves Preview Day Sun, Nov 1, Southgate. At Ray Hunter Florist & Garden. FREE. View the 2015 Mark Roberts Christmas collection. 734-284-2500. Backyard Birding Mon, Nov 2, 1pm, Farmington Hills. By Farmington Garden Club at Vagnozzi Visitor’s Center in Heritage Park. Learn to draw wild birds to your backyard. 248-477-3854. H The Year in Review Thu, Nov 5, 6:30-9pm, Farmington Hills. By APG at Spicer House. Open forum where we share what we learned over the growing season. www.associationofprofessionalgardeners.org. H Fences, Trellis, Gates & Arbors for Fairy Gardens Sat, Nov 7, Noon, Tipton. At Hidden Lake Gardens. $12/ person. Artist Lorenzo Cristaudo shares how to make accessories for mini gardens using natural materials. Register: 517-431-2060. H Bow Making Class Sat, Nov 7, & Sun, Nov 8, 1pm & 3pm, all locations. At English Gardens. $5, plus cost of materials. Register: www.EnglishGardens.com. H Wine, Women, & Shopping Sat, Nov 7, Chelsea. At The Garden Mill. Enjoy treats for the ladies. 734-475-5990, www.thegardenmill.com. H Grapevine Wreath Sat, Nov 7, 11am, all locations. At English Gardens. $5, plus cost of materials. Includes 22-inch wreath. We provide a shopping list & designer-led class. Register: www.EnglishGardens.com. Maple Sugar “ing” Mon, Nov 9, 6:30-7pm, Novi. By The Gardeners of Northville & Novi at Novi High School. $5. Presented by Roy Prentice, MSU Tollgate Extension farm manager. A Sensitive Wrightscape Wed, Nov 11, Noon, Troy. By Troy Garden Club at Big Beaver United Methodist Church. $7. Landscape Discovery & Reno at Frank Lloyd Wright’s Palmer House. Register: infoandideas@aol.com. H Holiday Open House Thu, Nov 12, 5-9pm & Fri-Sat, 9-5pm & Sun 12-4pm, Sylvan Lake. At Detroit Garden Works. Unique holiday decor & unique home & garden gifts. www.detroitgardenworks.com. H Wine & Design: Thanksgiving Décor Design Thu, Nov 12, 6:30-7:30pm, Haslett. At Van Atta’s. $30. Bring your own beer or wine & we’ll provide everything you’ll need to create a beautiful take-home project. Register: 517-339-1142.
Custom Iron Work • Porch, Step, Deck & Hand Rails • Driveway Gates • Powder Coat Paint Finishing • Restoration & More!
FOR INFORMATION ABOUT PUBLIC GARDENS, please visit MichiganGardener.com. Click on "Resources" then "Public Gardens." H Beyond the Bee’s Knees Thu, Nov 12, 7pm, Tipton. At Hidden Lake Gardens. FREE. Author Charlotte Hubbard will share insights & fun facts about this important insect. Register: 517-431-2060. Ferndale Garden Club Meeting Thu, Nov 12, 7pm, Ferndale. By Ferndale Garden Club at Kulick Community Ctr. Silent Auction with Lea Olson as Auctioneer. 248-541-6427. H Second Saturday Sunrise Series Sat, Nov 14, 15 Minutes before sunrise, Tipton. At Hidden Lake Gardens. $10. Share 755 acres before the day begins. Limited space. Register: 517-431-2060. H Christmas Extravaganza Sat, Nov 14, 11am-3pm, Plymouth. At Plymouth Nursery. Fresh greens, handcrafted porch pots & much more! 734-453-550. www.plymouthnursery.net. H Christmas Evergreen Wreath Sat, Nov 14, 11am, all locations. At English Gardens. $5, plus cost of materials. Includes a 24-inch wreath. We provide a shopping list & designer-led class. Register: www.EnglishGardens.com. H Wine & Design: Thanksgiving Décor Design Sat, Nov 14, 6:30-7:30pm, Haslett. At Van Atta’s. $30. Bring your own beer or wine & we’ll provide everything you’ll need to create a beautiful take-home project. Register: 517-339-1142. H Extending Your Garden with Native Plants Sat, Nov 14, 11:30am, Tipton. At Hidden Lake Gardens. $20. From Asters to Goldenrods, learn how you can extend your gardening season. Register: hiddenlakegardens.msu.edu. H Bow Making Class Sat, Nov 14, & Sun, Nov 15, 1pm & 3pm, all locations. At English Gardens. $5, plus cost of materials. Register: www.EnglishGardens.com. H Holiday Open House Sat, Nov 14, 9am-6pm & Sun, Nov 15, 10am-5pm, Grand Blanc. At The Weed Lady. Seasonal decor, music & more. TheWeedLady.com, 810-655-2723. H Sensational Holiday Arrangements Sat, Nov 14, 10-11:30am, Pontiac. By Telly’s at Goldner Walsh. $36/person. Make a beautiful arrangement. Includes materials. Register: 248-332-6430. 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
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April 2016 May 2016
March 15, 2016 April 15, 2016
• Gifts for gardeners, birders & the home • Holiday décor • Tree decorations • Fresh wreaths, garland, and greens • Poinsettias, Christmas Cactus, Norfolk Island Pines JOIN US for Chelsea’s 10th Annual Wine, Women, and Shopping event on Sat, Nov 7, 2015
110 S. MAIN • DOWNTOWN CHELSEA • 734-475-3539 • www.thegardenmill.com
Let Blossoms deliver your holiday gifts! EXCEPTIONAL SELECTION • HANDMADE ARRANGEMENTS BOUTIQUE WEDDING & EVENT FLOWERS Watch for our new Midtown Detroit store in early 2016
33866 Woodward at Adams, Birmingham
248.644.4411
Order online online: blossomsbirmingham.com
Come Get Inspired at our OPEN HOUSE! Fresh Ideas for the Holidays Sun, November 15, 11am-4pm
18
Michigan Gardener | November/December 2015 | MichiganGardener.com
Look for Allen Park • Ace Hardware Almont • American Tree Ann Arbor • Dixboro General Store H Matthaei Botanical Gard H Downtown Home & Gard • Wild Birds Unltd H The Produce Station • Ace Barnes Hardware (Washtenaw Ave) H Turner’s Greenhse/ Gard Ctr H Lodi Farms H Abbott’s Landscp Nurs • Ace Barnes Hardware (West Stadium) H English Gardens • Larry’s Mower Shop H HillTop Greenhse & Farms Auburn Hills • Drake’s Landscp & Nurs H State Crushing • Ace Hardware H Oakland Community College H Haley Stone Belleville H Zywicki Greenhse • Banotai Greenhse H Pinter Flowerland • Gardeners Choice Berkley • Garden Central Beverly Hills • Ace Hardware Birmingham H Blossoms Brighton H Nature’s Home & Gard H Meier Flowerland • Leppek Nurs H Beauchamp Landscp Supp Brownstown Twp H Ruhlig Farms & Gard • Raupp Bros Landscp Supp Canton • Wild Birds Unltd • Canton Floral Gardens • Crimboli Nurs • Clink Landscp & Nurs Chelsea H The Garden Mill • The Potting Shed • Heim Gardens & Florist Chesterfield • Van Thomme’s Greenhses Clarkston • Ace Hardware (Sashabaw) • The Birdfeeder • Lowrie’s Landscp H The Pond Source • Ace Hardware (Dixie Hwy) • Weingartz • Country Oaks Landscp Supp I
at these fine locations: Clawson • Ace Hardware Clinton Twp • MSU ExtensionMacomb Cty H English Gardens H Tropical Treasures • Michigan Koi Clio H Piechnik’s Greenhse Commerce Twp • Zoner’s Greenhse Davison H Wojo’s Garden Splendors Dearborn • Fairlane Gard • Ace Hardware Dearborn Hts H English Gardens Detroit H Detroit Farm & Gard • Detroit Gard Ctr • Ace Hardware Dexter H Fraleigh’s Nurs H Bloom! Gard Ctr • Dexter Mill • Earth Art Eastpointe H English Gardens H Drew’s Garden Farmington Hills H Steinkopf Nurs • Saxton’s Flower Ctr • Ace Hardware • Weingartz Fenton • Gerych’s H Heavenly Scent Herb Farm Ferndale • Casual Modes Home & Gard Flat Rock • Masserant’s Feed Store Fostoria H The Iron Barn Fowlerville H Arrowhead Alpines Gladwin H Stone Cottage Gardens Grand Blanc H The Weed Lady Grand Rapids • Meijer Gardens Grosse Ile H Westcroft Gardens Grosse Pointe • Allemon’s Landscp Ctr • Meldrum & Smith Nurs Grosse Pointe Shores • Edsel & Eleanor Ford House Grosse Pointe Woods H Wild Birds Unltd Hadley H Le Fleur Décor Haslett H Van Atta’s Greenhse Highland • Colasanti’s Produce & Plants H One Stop Landscp Supp • Five Star Ace Hardware • Fragments • Ace Hardware
Howell H Specialty Growers • Wilczewski Greenhses H Howell Farmer’s Mkt Imlay City H Earthly Arts Lake OrionH Wojo’s of Lake Orion • Lake Orion Lawn Ornaments H Orion Stone Depot Livonia • Valley Nurs H George’s Livonia Gard • Ace Hardware (6 Mi/Newburgh) • Ace Hardware (5 Mi/Middlebelt) • Superior Growers Supp • Bushel Mart Macomb • Ace Hardware • Boyka’s Greenhse • Olejnik Farms • Altermatt’s Greenhse H Landscape Source H Elya’s Village Gard Midland • Dow Gardens Milford H The Pond Place • Ace Hardware Monroe H The Flower Market New Baltimore H Meldrum Bros Nurs New Boston H Gorham & Sons Nurs H Grass Roots Nurs • Mums the Word New Hudson H Milarch Nurs North Branch H Campbell’s Greenhses H Oldani Landscp Nurs Northville • Begonia Bros (near downtown) • Gardenviews • Begonia Bros Novi • Glenda’s Gard Ctr • Ace Hardware • Wild Birds Unltd Oak Park • Four Seasons Gard Ctr • Ace Hardware Oakland H Piechnik’s Garden Gate Ortonville H Wojo’s Greenhse • Country Oaks Landscp Supp II Owosso H Everlastings in the Wildwood Plymouth • Rock Shoppe H Plymouth Nurs • Lucas Nurs • Sparr’s Greenhse • Backyard Birds • Sideways • Plymouth Rock & Supp
Pontiac • Goldner Walsh Gard/Home Ray • Heritage Oaks Design RedfordH Pinter Flowerland • Seven Mi Gard Ctr Rochester • Casual Concepts • Fogler’s Greenhse • Sherwood Forest Gard Ctr Rochester Hills H Haley Stone H Shades of Green Nurs • Wild Birds Unltd • Ace Hardware H Auburn Oaks Gard Ctr Romulus H Kurtzhal’s Farms H Schwartz’s Greenhse H Schoedel’s Nurs Roseville • Dale’s Landscp Supp • World Gardenland Royal Oak H English Gardens H Button’s Rent It • La Roche • Ace Hardware • Frentz & Sons Hardware • Billings Lawn Equip • Wild Birds Unltd • Manus Power Mowers Saginaw H Abele Greenhse & Gard Ctr Salem Twp H Willow Greenhses Saline H Nature’s Gard Ctr H Saline Flowerland • Junga’s Ace Hardware Shelby Twp H Telly’s Greenhse H Hessell’s Greenhses • Diegel Greenhses • Potteryland • Maeder Plant Farm South Lyon • Stone Depot Landscp Supp • Mike’s Garden • Ace Hardware • Hollow Oak Farm Nurs Southfield • Eagle Landscp & Supp • Lavin’s Flower Land • 3 DDD’s Stand • Main’s Landscp Supp Southgate H Ray Hunter Gard Ctr St Clair Shores • Ace Hardware (Harper/13 Mi) • Circare • Ace Hardware (Harper/Martin) • Hall’s Nurs • Soulliere Gard Ctr • Greenhouse Growers
Sterling Hts • Flower Barn Nurs • Decor Statuette • Prime Landscp Supp H Eckert’s Greenhse Stockbridge • Gee Farms Sylvan Lake H Detroit Garden Works H AguaFina Gardens Interntl Taylor H Beautiful Ponds & Gard • D&L Garden Ctr • Massab Acres H Panetta’s Landscp Supp Trenton • Keck Hardware • Carefree Lawn Ctr Troy H Telly’s Greenhse H Uncle Luke’s Feed Store • The Home & Gard Shop Utica • Stonescape Supp • Dale’s Landscp Supp • Weingartz Warren H Young’s Garden Mart • Garden Center Nurs • Beste’s Lawn & Patio Washington • United Plant Ctr H Rocks ‘n’ Roots • Landscape Direct • Miller’s Big Red Greenhse Waterford • Breen’s Landscp Supp • Jacobsen’s Flowers H Merrittscape • Ace Hardware West Bloomfield • Planterra H English Gardens • Whole Foods Westland H Barsons Greenhses • Panetta’s Landscp Supp • Merlino’s Bushel Ctr • Ace Hardware • Bushel Stop • Joe Randazzo’s Nurs White Lake • Sunshine Plants H Bogie Lake Greenhse H Mulligan’s Gard Ctr Whitmore Lake H Alexander’s Greenhses Williamston • Christian’s Greenhse Wixom • Angelo’s Landscp Supp • Brainer’s Greenhse Ypsilanti • Lucas Nurs • Margolis Nurs • Materials Unlimited • Schmidt’s Antiques • Coleman’s Farm Mkt
continued from previous page Herb & Holly Boutique Sat, Nov 14, 10am-2pm, Grosse Pointe. By Herb Society of America at Grosse Pointe Woods Community Ctr. Wreaths, arrangements, lavender products, herbal holiday decor. 586-773-6682. H Holiday Porch Pot Class at Ray Hunter Sun, Nov 15, 11am, Southgate. At Ray Hunter Florist & Garden. $40. Includes all materials. Create your own porch pot full of seasonal greens & trims. 734-284-2500, www.rayhunter.com. H Blossoms Open House Sun, Nov 15, 11am-4pm, Birmingham. At Blossoms. Fresh ideas for the holidays. 248-644-4411, www.blossomsbirmingham.com. H Behind the Scenes at Hidden Lake Gardens Thu, Nov 19, 6:30pm, Tipton. At Hidden Lake Gardens. $5. Bring your questions & learn a few tips from HLG’s Managing Director, Paul Pfeifer. www.hiddenlakegardens.msu.edu. H Ladies Night Thu, Nov 19, 6-9pm, Grand Blanc. At The Weed Lady. Refreshments, relaxation & specials. TheWeedLady.com, 810-655-2723. H Ladies Night Out Fri, Nov 20, 6-8pm, Plymouth. At Plymouth Nursery. Fresh greens, handcrafted porch pots & much more. 734-453550. www.plymouthnursery.net. H Create a Bittersweet Wreath Sat, Nov 21, Noon, Tipton. At Hidden Lake Gardens. $30. Learn the basics of weaving & create a wreath using bittersweet. Register by Nov 14: www.WillForageForFood.com. H Nature A-Z Preschool Special Event Sat, Nov 21, 10:30am, Tipton. At Hidden Lake Gardens. $8/person. Age 3-7 explore the natural world with an adult. Dress to be outside for a short time. Register: hiddenlakegardens.msu.edu. H Arts & Greens Holiday Market Sat, Nov 21, 9am-5pm & Sun, Nov 22, 10am-5pm, White Lake. At Bogie Lake Greenhouses. All your holiday decorating needs. www.bogielakegreenhouses.com. H Holiday Open House Sat, Nov 21, & Sun, Nov 22. Haslett. At Van Atta’s. Music, food & sales to kick off the holiday season. Homegrown poinsettias, wreaths, greens & more. www.vanattas.com, 517-339-1142. H Twilight Christmas Walk at Ray Hunter Sat, Nov 21, 5-8pm, Southgate. At Ray Hunter Florist & Garden. Stroll through our Christmas Wonderland during the annual Twilight Walk. 734-284-2500. H Wreath Decorating Workshop Sat, Nov 21, Noon, Ann Arbor. At Turner’s. $40. Includes materials. Register by Nov 17: 734-663-7600. www.turnersannarbor.com. H Holiday Indoor or Outdoor Greens Arrangement Workshop Sat, Nov 21, 10am, Troy & 1pm, Pontiac. At Telly’s. Create an indoor table decoration, a unique hand-crafted gift, or an outdoor greens arrangement. Instructors will guide you through the process. $5 plus cost of materials. Bring clippers. Pre-register: 248-689-8735. H Kitchen Herb Garden Sat, Nov 21, 10am, all locations. At English Gardens. $19.99. We’ll provide all the materials; you choose three herbs. Container colors may vary. Register: www.EnglishGardens.com. H Thanksgiving Floral Arrangement Tue, Nov 24, 6:30pm, Tipton. At Hidden Lake Gardens. $38/person. Create a beautiful fresh arrangement for Thanksgiving. Register by Nov 17: hiddenlakegardens. msu.edu. H Porch Pot Workshop Fri, Nov 27, Noon, Ann Arbor. At Turner’s. $40. Includes materials. Register by Nov 17: 734-663-7600. www. turnersannarbor.com. H The Gift of Nature: 10 Plants that Changed the World Sat, Nov 28, through Jan 4, Ann Arbor. At Matthaei Botanical Gardens. FREE. Highlighting select conservatory plants & how they’ve benefited humans. mbgna.umich.edu. Holiday Splendor: Tinsel & Trees Sat, Nov 28, weekends through Dec 13, Bloomfield Hills. At Cranbrook House & Gardens. $20. Decorated trees, shopping, Santa sighting & more. Reservations: 248-645-3149.
H Handspinners Holiday Fair Sat, Nov 28, Ann Arbor. At Matthaei Botanical Gardens. FREE admission. Handspun yarns; knitted woven & felted products, books, craft tools & more. mbgna.umich.edu.
December H Porch Pot Workshops Tue, Dec 1 & Wed, Dec 2, 6pm, Plymouth. At Plymouth Nursery. Register: 734-453-5500. www.plymouthnursery.net. H Holiday Williamsburg Wreath Arrangement Tue, Dec 1, 6:30pm, Tipton. At Hidden Lake Gardens. $50/person. Adorn a fresh wreath with velvet, magnolia leaves, & dried items in the Colonial style. Register: hiddenlakegardens.msu.edu. Annual Greens Market Thu, Dec 3 & Fri, Dec 4, 9am-6pm; Sat: 9am-1pm, Rochester. By Rochester Garden Club at St Philips Episcopal Church. Greens, gifts, arrangements & more. www.RochesterGardenClub.org. H Holiday Porch Pot Thu, Dec 3, 7pm, all locations. At English Gardens. $5, plus cost of materials. We provide a shopping list & designerled class. Register: www.EnglishGardens.com. H Evening of Lights Fri, Dec 4 & Sun, Dec 6, 5-8pm, Tipton. At Hidden Lake Gardens. Over 2000 candle-lit luminaries displayed. hiddenlakegardens.msu.edu. H Holiday Indoor or Outdoor Greens Arrangement Workshop Sat, Dec 5, 10am, Troy. At Telly’s. Create an indoor table decoration, a unique hand-crafted gift, or an outdoor greens arrangement. Instructors will guide you through the process. $5 plus cost of materials. Bring clippers. Preregister: 248-689-8735. 24th Annual Holiday Greens Market Sat, Dec 5, 9am-4pm, Clarkston. By Clarkston Farm & Garden Club at Calvary Lutheran Church. Wreaths, roping, swags, bundles & arrangements. www.clarkstongardenclub.org. H Wine & Design: Holiday Décor Design Sat, Dec 5, 6:30-7:30pm, Haslett. At Van Atta’s. $30. Bring your own beer or wine & we’ll provide everything you’ll need to create a beautiful take-home project. Register: 517-339-1142. H Seasonal Wreaths & Table Decorations Sat, Dec 5, Noon, Tipton. At Hidden Lake Gardens. $12/ person. Hike the grounds for 30 minutes collecting materials, then create a project. Register: hiddenlakegardens. msu.edu. H Holiday Festival Sat, Dec 5, 4-8pm, Tipton. At Hidden Lake Gardens. Visit with Santa, enjoy crafts and musical entertainment. hiddenlakegardens.msu.edu. H Artists Market at Matthaei Sun, Dec 6, Ann Arbor. At Matthaei Botanical Gardens. FREE admission. A variety of art for sale from local, U-M & regional artists. mbgna.umich.edu. H Porch Pot Workshops Tue, Dec 8, & Wed, Dec 9, 6pm, Plymouth. At Plymouth Nursery. Register: 734-453-5500. www.plymouthnursery.net. H Wine & Design: Create a Holiday Centerpiece Thu, Dec 10, 6:30-7:30pm, Haslett. At Van Atta’s. $30. Bring your own beer or wine & we’ll provide everything you’ll need to create a beautiful take-home project. Register: 517-339-1142. H Candle Centerpiece Thu, Dec 10, 7pm, all locations. At English Gardens. $24.99. We provide all the materials to make this longlasting centerpiece. Register: www.EnglishGardens.com. H Second Saturday Sunrise Series Sat, Dec 12, 15 Minutes before sunrise, Tipton. At Hidden Lake Gardens. $10. Share 755 acres before the day begins. Limited space. Register: 517-431-2060. H Terrarium Snow Scene Sat, Dec 12, 1pm, all locations. At English Gardens. $24.99. We provide all the materials to make this festive snow scene in a glass jar. Register: www.EnglishGardens.com. H Nature Hike Sat, Dec 12, 10:30am, Tipton. At Hidden Lake Gardens. $5/person. Enjoy a family-friendly hike on Hidden Lake Garden’s many rolling & wooded trails. Register: hiddenlakegardens.msu.edu.
MichiganGardener.com | November/December 2015 | Michigan Gardener
H Men’s Day Sat, Dec 12, 9am-6pm, Grand Blanc. At The Weed Lady. Last minute shopping assistance & complimentary gift wrapping. TheWeedLady.com, 810-655-2723. H Holiday Candle Arrangement Sat, Dec 12, 10:30am, Tipton. At Hidden Lake Gardens. $38/person. Create a centerpiece using fresh Christmas greens, pine cones, ribbons & tapers. Register: hiddenlakegardens.msu.edu. H Wonders of Winter Children’s Program Sat, Dec 12, Ann Arbor. At Matthaei Botanical Gardens. $10/child. Kids accompanied by parents will create seasonal potpourri & evergreen boughs. Register: mbgna.umich.edu. H Annual Holiday Greens Market Sat, Dec 12, Ann Arbor. At Matthaei Botanical Gardens. Holiday greens workshop. $15/person. Materials provided. Register: 734-255-7912. H Behind the Scenes at Hidden Lake Gardens Thu, Dec 17, 6:30pm, Tipton. At Hidden Lake Gardens. $5. Bring your questions & learn a few tips from HLG’s Managing Director, Paul Pfeifer. www.hiddenlakegardens. msu.edu. H Night at the North Pole Fri, Dec 18, 7pm, Plymouth. At Plymouth Nursery. $5. Boys and Girls, wear your jammies & join us for an evening of holiday crafts & fun. 734-453-5500. www.plymouthnursery.net.
January How Plants Got Their Stripes: The Science of Variegated & Patterned Leaves Mon, Jan 4, 7pm, Bloomfield Hills. By Hardy Plant Society Great Lakes Chapter at the Congregational Church of Birmingham. Speaker: Joseph Tychonievich. Info: www.hardyplantsociety-greatlakes.org. H Free Presentation: Terrific Terrariums Sat, Jan 9, 1pm, all locations. At English Gardens. A fun & easy way to enjoy plants indoors. Watch a step-by-step demonstration on making & caring for one. www.EnglishGardens.com. H Make It & Take It Workshop: Make a Terrarium Sat, Jan 9, 2:30pm, all locations. At English Gardens. Materials fee. Register: www.EnglishGardens.com. Ikebana: The Japanese Art of Flower Arranging Tue, Jan 12, 11:15am, Rochester. By the Rochester Garden Club at Rochester Community House. $5. Register: 586-337-0897. www.RochesterGardenClub.org. H Free Presentation: A Guide to Succulents Sat, Jan 16, 1pm, all locations. At English Gardens. Low maintenance, versatile, & perfect for containers. You will receive an overview on the multiple varieties. www.EnglishGardens.com. H Make It & Take It Workshop: Indoor Succulent Garden Sat, Jan 16, 2:30pm, all locations. At English Gardens. We will provide everything you need to make & take home your own succulent garden. Register: www.EnglishGardens.com. H Free Presentation: The ABC’s of Growing Herbs Sat, Jan 23, 1pm, all locations. At English Gardens. Fresh herbs are easy to grow & are a great addition while cooking. You will be given tips & tricks. www.EnglishGardens. com. H Make It & Take It Workshop: Kitchen Herb Garden Sat, Jan 23, 2:30pm, all locations. At English Gardens. Materials fee. Enjoy fresh herbs from the kitchen. Choose a selection of herbs to plant in a container. Register: www.EnglishGardens.com. H Free Presentation: DIY Fresh Flower Arranging Sat, Jan 30, 1pm, all locations. At English Gardens. Step-by-step demo on how to arrange fresh cut flowers in a vase, plus the basics of floral design. www.EnglishGardens.com. It’s All About... Healthy Gardening–A Winter Symposium Sat, Jan 30, East Lansing. By Capital Area Master Gardeners at MSU Plant & Soil Sciences Bldg. 4 speakers, marketplace & lunch. Register: mgacac.wordpress.com, mga.cac@gmail.com. H Make It & Take It Workshop: How to Arrange a Bouquet in a Vase Sat, Jan 30, 2:30pm, all locations. At English Gardens. Materials fee. Make your own fresh-cut flower bouquet to take home. Register: www.EnglishGardens.com.
February H Make It & Take It Workshop: Fairy Garden Sat, Feb 6, 2:30pm, all locations. At English Gardens. Materials fee. Come in & make your very own fairy garden to take home. Register: www.EnglishGardens.com. H Free Presentation: Fairy & Miniature Gardens Sat, Feb 6, 1pm, all locations. At English Gardens. Learn what it takes to make your own fairy-sized garden. www. EnglishGardens.com. Michigan Gardener Road Trips Mon, Feb 8, 7pm, Bloomfield Hills. By Hardy Plant Society Great Lakes Chapter at the Congregational Church of Birmingham. Speaker: Julia Hofley. Info: www.hardyplantsociety-greatlakes.org. What’s New for 2016 by George Papadelis Tue, Feb 9, 11:15am, Rochester. By the Rochester Garden Club at Rochester Community House. $5. Register: 586337-0897. www.RochesterGardenClub.org. Ornamental Grasses Thu, Feb 11, 1pm, Utica. By Shelby Garden Club at BurgessShadbush Nature Center. FREE. Presented by Sue Grubba. 586-873-3782. H Free Presentation: Attracting Birds to Your Garden Sat, Feb 13, 1pm, all locations. At English Gardens. Learn the tips & tricks to getting birds to visit your garden. www.EnglishGardens.com. H Kids Workshop: Make a Bird Treat Sat, Feb 13, 2:30, all locations. At English Gardens. Materials fee. Bring the kids to make their own bird treat to take home to bring birds to the garden. Register: www.EnglishGardens.com. H Free Presentation: Orchids 101 Plus Repotting Demo Sat, Feb 20, 11am, all locations. At English Gardens. Gain some knowledge on orchids including how to get them to re-bloom in your home. www.EnglishGardens.com. H Free Presentation: Orchids 201 Plus Repotting Demo Sat, Feb 20, 1pm, all locations. At English Gardens. Learn even more about orchids. www.EnglishGardens.com. H Make It & Take It Workshop: Orchid Garden Sat, Feb 20, 2:30pm, all locations. At English Gardens. Materials fee. Create & take home your own orchid garden. Register: www.EnglishGardens.com. H Free Presentation: Landscaping Trends that Increase Your Home’s Value Sat, Feb 27, 1pm, all locations. At English Gardens. Get ideas on landscaping & trends that could boost your property value. www.EnglishGardens.com.
March H Free Presentation: Perennial Gardening 101 Sat, Mar 5, 1pm, all locations. At English Gardens. Get information on perennials & some tips for keeping them healthy. www.EnglishGardens.com. H Conifer Propagation Seminar Sat, Mar 5, 9am-4pm, Tipton. At Hidden Lake Gardens. Hands-on grafting & cuttings of plants from the Harper Collection of Dwarf & Rare Conifers. Register: 517-4312060, www.hiddenlakegardens.msu.edu. Flowers of the Boreal Forest & Shorlines of the Great Lakes Mon, Mar 7, 1pm, Farmington Hills. Farmington Garden Club at Vagnozzi Visitor’s Center in Heritage Park. Slide tour of the plants & flowers of northern Michigan. 248-477-3854. If You Could Only Pick One: Perennial Gold Standards Mon, Mar 7, 7pm, Bloomfield Hills. By Hardy Plant Society Great Lakes Chapter at the Congregational Church of Birmingham. Speaker: Susan Martin. Info: www.hardyplantsociety-greatlakes.org. A Balanced Backyard by Elly Maxwell Tue, Mar 8, 11:15am, Rochester. By the Rochester Garden Club at Rochester Community House. $5. Register: 586-337-0897. www.RochesterGardenClub.org. Michigan Herb Associates Annual Herb Conference Thu, Mar 10, 8am-4:30pm, East Lansing. By Michigan Herb Associates at MSU Plant & Soil Sciences Building. Theme: Garden Fiesta to Remember. Featured speaker Lucinda Hutson. bridgerherbs@hotmail.com. Register: wwwmiherb.org. H Kids Workshop: Paint & Plant a Pot Sat, Mar 12, 2:30pm, all locations. At English Gardens. Materials fee. Bring the little gardeners in to paint a flower pot & plant their own seeds to take home. Register: www.EnglishGardens.com.
H 18th Annual APG Conference Sat, Mar 12, Hartland. By Association of Professional Gardeners. Details announced in January by email, Facebook & APG website. www.associationofprofessionalgardeners.org. H Spring Bulb Show Sat, Mar 12, Through Mar 27, Tipton. At Hidden Lake Gardens. Open daily 9am-4pm. For information, 517-431-2060 or www.hiddenlakegardens.msu.edu. H Free Presentation: Planting Seeds Indoors Sat, Mar 12, 1pm, all locations. At English Gardens. Learn how to grow your own plants from seeds indoors that you can later transplant outside. www.EnglishGardens.com. H Free Presentation: Get a Green Healthy Lawn Sat, Mar 19, 1pm, all locations. At English Gardens. Learn the best tips to get the greenest lawn in the neighborhood. www.EnglishGardens.com. H Free Presentation: Live Healthier with Houseplants Sat, Mar 26, 1pm, all locations. At English Gardens. Learn how some houseplants can keep you healthier & what it takes to keep plants healthy too. www.EnglishGardens. com.
April H Garden Party Weekend Sat, Apr 2, & Sun, Apr 3, all locations. At English Gardens. 2 days packed with informative gardening & decorating seminars. Find details & complete schedule mid Feb: www.EnglishGardens.com.
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All About Sharing Mon, Apr 4, 1pm, Farmington Hills. By Farmington Garden Club at Vagnozzi Visitors Center in Heritage Park. Multiply plants, expanding your garden on a shoestring. 248-4773854. The Heartbeat of the Garden Mon, Apr 4, 7pm, Bloomfield Hills. By Hardy Plant Society Great Lakes Chapter at the Congregational Church of Birmingham. Speaker: Sandy Wilkins. What makes one garden unique and different from another? If gardeners use the same basic principles of landscape design, why don’t they look the same? The answer lies in the heartbeat. Info: www.hardyplantsociety-greatlakes.org. H Free Presentation: Tips for Dividing & Transplanting Perennials Sat, Apr 9, 1pm, all locations. At English Gardens. Learn the best ways to divide & relocate your perennials. www.EnglishGardens.com. Attracting Bees & Maintaining Beehives Thu, Apr 14, 1pm, Utica. By Shelby Garden Club at Burgess-Shadbush Nature Center. FREE. Presented by Bee keepers Mary Jo Showalter & Joanne Gartner. 586873-3782. H 2016 Educational Gardening Conference Sat, Apr 23, All day, Waterford. By Master Gardener Society of Oakland County at Oakland Schools Conference Center. $80. 5 hours of Master Gardener credits. Speakers, marketplace, entertainment & more. www.mgsoc.org.
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Michigan Gardener | November/December 2015 | MichiganGardener.com
Plant Focus continued from back cover
Paperbark maples work beautifully in natural landscape settings. Eric Hofley/Michigan Gardener
MichiganGardener.com | November/December 2015 | Michigan Gardener
plant focus
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Jim Slezinski
Paperbark maple
The bark on the trunk, branches and stems peels, unfurls and literally flakes, highlighting shades of amber, beige, cinnamon, brown, orange, and black.
“Exfoliating” is not just a procedural skin term used by the dermatologist. In horticulture, it’s generally a reference to the “skin” (bark) on woody plants (trees and shrubs). Many tree barks fit this term, including birch and sycamore, but in the maple family, one in particular runs away with the exfoliating bark trophy. The paperbark maple (Acer griseum) has all the bells and whistles in this category. The bark on this small tree is an exceptional ornamental feature. This maple is a much welcomed immigrant to America, coming from China. A native to the forested mountains of central China, it is not common in its home at 4,000 to 6,000foot elevations. The landscape industry owes many thanks to E.H. Wilson, the noted pioneer plant explorer for Harvard University’s Arnold Arboretum. He was instrumental in paperbark maple’s introduction to America. After finding this tree in his journey to China in 1901, Wilson had seeds sent to the Veitch Nursery in Britain for propagating. continued on next page
Paperbark Maple Botanical name: Plant type: Plant size: Growth rate: Habit: Hardiness: Leaf color:
Jonathon Hofley/Michigan Gardener
Its slow growth makes the paperbark maple an ideal ornamental tree for small landscape areas. Patio and courtyard areas are perfect sites.
Acer griseum (AY-sir GRISS-ee-um) Small deciduous tree 20 feet tall Slow growth of 6 to 12 inches per year Oval to round form with stiff branched structure Zone 5 Blue-green on top with light green beneath. Fall color can be variable: russet to red, orange to yellow. Some banner years can yield brilliant red. Leaf size: Up to 6 inches long; trifoliate (3 separate leaflets) Bark: The outstanding ornamental feature. Bark exfoliates on older stems, branches and trunk to reveal amber, orange, brown, cinnamon, rust, and salmon. Light: Full sun to partial shade Soil: Very adaptable to most Michigan soils: sandy to loam to clay. If clay, add amendments for good drainage. Diseases/Pests: Rare; none of concern Uses: Focal point or specimen; single tree or groupings; useful for small gardens. Use in areas that are highly visible. Remarks: Exceptional small tree. Strikingly colored and exfoliating bark lends winter interest. Easy to grow. Can have a premium price due to difficult propagation, but its four-season interest provides outstanding value.
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Michigan Gardener | November/December 2015 | MichiganGardener.com
continued from previous page In 1907, a small living sapling was returned to the Arnold; from there the legacy was born. As of 2015, the oldest paperbark maple specimen in the United States is growing at the Arnold, outside of Boston. Upon its discovery, Wilson considered the paperbark maple as “easily the most outstanding of all Chinese maples and one of the most distinguished members of (its) large and varied tribe.”
Characteristics Paperbark maple is in a group of several trifoliate maples (those that have three leaflets attached to the petiole), unlike most other maples. Blue-green above and pale graygreen on the underside, these leaves can size up to six inches long. Being deciduous, autumn brings out a leaf color palette of mostly russet-red to orange and yellow. In some special years, the leaves turn brilliant red. Weather conditions are usually the determining factor for the fall leaf tones. With an open oval to round branch form, paperbark maple can range 15 to 50 feet in height. Most commonly it reaches about 20 feet. Stiff, candelabra-like branching adds to an attractive winter silhouette. And then comes the bark, its major ornamental feature. In a “papery” texture, the bark on the trunk, branches and stems peels, unfurls and literally flakes. Adding to this dimension is color. Peeling sheets are highlighted in amber, cinnamon, sienna, gray, and into deeper brown to black. Shiny and smooth in youth, as the tree matures, the bark exfoliates—even to extremes in very old trees. All the aesthetic attributes of paperbark maple come at a premium—propagating this beauty is difficult and challenging. As a result, you will find higher prices for it at the garden center. The winged nutlet seed is the typical maple samara. When these “helicopters” twirl to the ground, only one out of several hundred to a thousand may sprout naturally to produce a new tree. Many seeds are sterile (blind) and some arboreal rodents relish many good seeds as a meal. Green, insignificant flowers tend to be male and female on the same tree. Crosspollination of several trees is vital, but not a guarantee of a viable seed outcome. Grafting stems onto other compatible maples works. Hardwood or softwood cuttings taken from mature trees are basically unsuccessful to root. Rooting cuttings from young seedling trees can be successful, but involves patience and a somewhat complicated process.
Growing tips Being a hardwood, growth can be slow to moderate, varying 6 to 12 inches of stem growth per year. Adaptable to most Michigan soils from sandy to loam to even clay, with P H OTO G R A P H S BY J I M S L E Z I N S K I U N L E S S OT H E R W I S E N OT E D
Some fall seasons, like this one, yield leaves with excellent red coloring.
MichiganGardener.com | November/December 2015 | Michigan Gardener
On cold and bright winter days, paperbark maples can be a glorious sight.
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The leaves are trifoliate (they have three leaflets) and can be a pleasant russet color in the fall. amendments of sphagnum peat moss or compost, planting comes with ease. Both nursery containers and balled and burlapped are convenient methods to plant. Bare root trees can also be successfully planted in early spring. Good drainage is important, especially if planting in a clay soil. Full sun to partial shade are fine sites. Best fall leaf color occurs in a sunny exposure, but partial shade will yield color too. Diseases and insect pests are rare and of no consequence.
Where to place your paperbark maple Its slow growth makes this the ideal ornamental tree for small landscape areas. Around patios, courtyards and atriums are perfect sites. Planting in a highly visible, focal point leads to an all-season appreciation. Winter snow that collects on the curly bark contrasts well. Spectacular fall leaf color can be picture-postcard perfect given the right weather conditions during the growing season. Companion plantings of shade- or sun-loving perennials, annuals and small shrubs fit well with a single tree or groupings. Having an evergreen background of various conifers like arborvitae, pine or spruce creates a showstopping vignette of the tree’s winter form and bark. Because of the open branching habit, no heavy shade is cast by the branches. Paperbark maple works in natural landscape settings as well as designs in Asian styles, i.e. Japanese gardens. If near a water feature such as a pond or lake, the tree’s mirror reflection doubles the pleasure. Planting this choice tree may be an expenditure, but the enjoyment continues year after year in all seasons.
This tree is over 70 years old and shows why the paperbark maple often wins the exfoliating bark trophy.
Propagating paperbark maple is difficult. Only one out of several hundred to a thousand samaras may sprout naturally to produce a new tree.
Eric Hofley/Michigan Gardener
The paperbark maple casts no heavy shade because of its open branching habit.
Jim Slezinski is the Vice President and Senior Landscape Designer/Horticulturist at Goldner Walsh Garden and Home in Pontiac, MI.
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continued from back cover as they did the previous November. Worst of all, it is very difficult to keep evergreens alive in pots over the winter. Mugo pines and boxwoods can be hardy in pots, if the weather and water conditions are just right. Hardiness in plants refers to plants whose roots are in the ground. Live plants with their roots above ground in containers can be challenging to keep alive. This is all by way of saying that beautiful winter containers can be constructed from cut natural materials, exactly the size and shape you need them to be. There is no end of cut evergreen stems available in the latter half of November. Douglas, fraser, noble and silver fir boughs are readily available. Fir is a great choice for a cut green— they stay green a very long time. For unusual greens, cut boxwood, German boxwood, berried juniper, and countless other specialty greens are available for purchase. Interested in a cut green that will last until April without any hint of dry or brittle needles, or color loss? Mountain hemlock. I stay away from cedar and white pine—they will dry out and fade long before the winter is over.
How to plant winter containers We do not stick cut evergreen stems into the soil in a pot. We take the soil in a pot down four inches when the summer or fall pots are emptied, in preparation for the winter arrangement. We construct a 4- to 5-inch thick dry floral foam form which is wedged into the top of the pot. The top third of the form sticks up above the rim of the pot. Each cut evergreen branch is roughly sharpened with the blade on a pair of pruners, and cut to a length representing the finished width of the arrangement. Each branch is stuck into that foam form at whatever angle seems natural and right. I like to approximate the shape of a naturallygrowing evergreen shrub. The branches usu-
A fistful of lights at the bottom of a centerpiece will keep that centerpiece visible long after dark.
Preserved and dyed plum eucalyptus is an eye-catching choice for a container filler.
Masses of red twig dogwood make a statement.
These bright red berries are an eye-popping partner to the cut boxwood branches.
Try non-traditional color schemes like these cream and brown tones.
MichiganGardener.com | November/December 2015 | Michigan Gardener
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What a contrast—yellow twig dogwood and purple eucalyptus. ally grow in a horizontal configuration. Sticking evergreen branches into soil means every branch is awkwardly vertical. Few evergreens hold their branches vertically. A foam form means the gardener has the means and discretion to create a winter container that speaks strongly to the natural order of things. That thick evergreen blanket can have no end of other materials tucked into it. Eucalyptus pods are a striking texture, and a lovely wintery blue color. Winterberry (provided it has been thoroughly sprayed with Vapor Gard) is a natural source of red. Pods, twigs and bits from the field or garden can loosen and endow the appearance of the greens. As for a centerpiece, no material is as lustrous and colorful as fresh cut twigs. Red twig, yellow twig, and gray dogwood will look fresh in a container all winter long. Cut willow twigs have been known to root in a container over the winter. Curly and straight copper willow, black willow, and pussy willow are but a few of the available choices. We do zip tie our twigs to a stout bamboo pole, the end of which will go deep into the pots. Big centerpieces may need additional bamboo poles inserted all around the perimeter, A light dusting of snow and frost on a well-built winter container is a sight to behold.
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Michigan Gardener | November/December 2015 | MichiganGardener.com
continued from previous page through the dry floral foam and down into the soil of the pot for extra stability. These additional stakes may need to be wired together. Winter weather can be fierce; thoughtful and patient construction is a must.
The finishing touches A winter container takes on the personality and taste of the gardener in charge with those finishing touches that come next. Some will like sparkly picks added just for the holidays. Others will like pine cones, field weeds, magnolia pods, or an abandoned bird’s nest. Natural dry seed pods are readily available in the fall. Preserved and dyed eucalyptus can add an unexpected punch of color to a winter arrangement. Good quality eucalyptus does not run, bleed, or fade. Still others favor fresh-cut magnolia branches, or dashes of Port Orford cedar. Artificial picks are both convincing and weatherproof. Like the floral foam forms, they can be used and reused over a number of years. Dry stems of hardy hibiscus, butterfly weed, hydrangea, and bear’s breeches are beautiful in winter pots. Who knows what materials a fallow field or garden might provide. The materials available from the garden, farmers market, garden center or weedy field are just about limitless. Planting pots for winter is an entirely different way of gardening, but it is gardening nonetheless.
Light up your winter container A winter pot is the perfect vehicle by which to introduce light into the winter season. The garden is not only dormant, it is dark. Lights in winter pots on the porch welcome guests. A pot positioned by the stairs from the deck into the yard can light the way. Light strings are readily available in the fall. Placing them in the winter landscape is a form of gardening. 10 strings of mini lights will not consume much energy, but they will help to banish the dark. A fistful of lights at the bottom of a centerpiece will keep that centerpiece visible long after dark. We have a season ahead where daylight is scarce, gray skies are regular, and the dark comes early and stays late. Lit winter containers light up the winter landscape in a warm way. A solidly and thoughtfully constructed winter container will delight, entertain, and console a gardener’s eye for as long as six months.
Deborah Silver formally studied English literature and biology, and later worked as a fine artist in watercolor and pastel. A part-time job in a nursery began her career in landscape and garden design. Since 1986, Deborah Silver and Co. has designed and installed landscapes and gardens that combine her thorough knowledge of horticulture with an artist’s eye for design. Deborah owns Detroit Garden Works, a retail store devoted to fine garden ornament and specialty plants. Follow her journal at deborahsilver.com/blog.
Copper curly willow is a spectacular “thriller” in this winter pot.
Think beyond red and green. Here, papery beige, bleached salal leaves and orange holly berries are paired beautifully.
Lit winter containers warm up the winter landscape.
No need to worry about a cracked pot over the winter here—this woven wicker trunk lined in plastic is both functional and attractive.
through the lens Photographs from Michigan gardeners at home and traveling
This koi pond and red bridge were designed and built by John & Ellie DeBano and photographed by their daughter, Tammy Joyce.
Jennifer Faber photographed this macro shot of borage.
A Call For Photos! 1. E-mail us 1 or 2 of your best garden photos. Be sure to send us the full-resolution file. 2. Tell us where the photo was taken. 3. Include a one-sentence caption describing the scene and the plants.
A dahlia captured by Liz Krantz
We are looking for photos of your garden, public gardens, and plant close-ups. If your photo is published, we’ll gift you a free one-year subscription to Michigan Gardener. E-mail your photos to: photos@MichiganGardener.com.
Milkweed growing through a gate, shot by Rachel Wyss.
| November/December 2015 | MichiganGardener.com
The case for planting winter pots F
Short magnolia branches and leaves are a unique accent in this winter scene.
Silver eucalyptus and cut evergreen boughs—what a fabulous alternative to green and red.
Winter containers ew times are as daunting to a gardener Having been in the container garden busias the moment when it is apparent ness in the spring, summer, and fall for many that the gardening season is coming years, it only took one simple, stray thought to a close. The stems of some perennials will to entertain the notion of planting pots for dry and persist in the landscape the entire the winter. Many gardeners have containwinter. Those with juicy stems will drop to ers gracing their landscape. Pots at the front the ground, and begin decomposing as the door are welcoming. Pots on a terrace provide temperatures dip below freezing. The trees an environment to the time spent outdoors regale the landscape, their leaves in full and entertaining. Multiple pots can screen an unvibrant fall color. toward view. Window boxes are a way of inEvery Michigan gardener is well aware tegrating nature and architecture. that we have 6 months of the year to A great container can be the perenjoy and work in the garden, and fect focal point in a garden. A great another trying 6 months in which container planting is a landscape the garden is dormant. Gardeners in miniature—wherever you want handle the offseason in a variety of it. Arranging a winter container ways. They read. They make plans has only one hard and fast rule: the for a new garden. They order seeds container must be frostproof. Think and plants. Others grow tropical wood, stone, metal, stoneware, or plants, indoors. concrete, as opposed to terra cotta. A good many gardeners make Deborah I have seen lovely containers sure to include trees with great Silver planted with dwarf evergreens, but bark and berries in their landscape. live plants in pots are problematic in MichiOthers leave their perennial gardens intact gan winters. Even miniature evergreens have until the spring. Snow can highlight a dorsubstantial root balls. If your pots are on the mant garden in a beautiful way. Some garsmall side, you may not have room to put todeners just fret their way through the winter gether an interesting collection of plants. as best they can, or go south when they are A group of evergreen plants do not grow up about to black out from the prospect of one and into each other over the winter that will more day of winter weather. I have another culminate in a gorgeous arrangement. They idea worth considering. will look their same separate selves in April P H OTO G R A P H S BY D E B O R A H S I LV E R
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