MN Arboretum Magazine Feb Mar 2023

APPLE ROOTSTOCK RESEARCH

GO L DEN WEE P ING WILLOW

SPRING FLOWER SHOW

AWE WALKS

PLUS: EXHIBITS, EVENTS, CLASSES & OUTDOOR FUN

FROM THE DIRECTOR

Don’t simply “put up” with winter Embrace it! Connect with nature and delight this beautiful season with a brisk February walk at the Arboretum. We invite you to check out our guide to winter trails (z.umn. edu/88ab) for details on our cross-country ski and snowshoe trails, as well as information about Three-Mile Walk and Three-Mile Drive, which are being maintained and open for visitors again this winter. Events such as the February Art Fair, Galentine’s Yoga Retreat and our Full Moon Hikes (page 8-9) are sure bets to beat any winter doldrums you may be experiencing.

If you can’t help but look forward to spring – the Arb’s annual Spring Flower Show (page 4) will bring a smile to your face and a bounce to your step. In March, look for early signs of the changing seasons (page 6), enjoy the annual MapleFest pancake breakfast and plan your home garden by making a stop at the Andersen Horticultural Library – home to one of North America’s largest seed and nursery catalog collections. As always, a warmup break spent checking out the tropical plants in the Meyer-Deats Conservatory is time well spent.

However you fill your days, don’t let winter pass unnoticed. Get outside and explore all that the season has to offer at the Arboretum. We look forward to connecting with you soon!

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2023, VOL 42, NO. 1

Minnesota Landscape Arboretum Magazine is published six times a year by the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum Foundation, 3675 Arboretum Drive, Chaska, MN 55318-9613, 612-624-2200. The magazine is a benefit of Arboretum membership. No portion may be reprinted without permission from the Arboretum. The information published in this magazine is not necessarily endorsed by the University of Minnesota.

The Arboretum welcomes feedback from readers at arbinfo@umn.edu.

To request a copy of this publication in alternate format, please call 612-301-1257. The Arboretum is part of The College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences at the University of Minnesota.

EDITOR’S NOTE:

After 11 years and 75 publications, this is my final issue as Arboretum Magazine Editor. I retired on Jan. 12 and want to take this opportunity to thank you, Arb Members, for being a great audience! I am grateful for all of the positive comments, encouraging notes, photos and story ideas you sent over the years. My sincere thanks to the many writers who have contributed interesting and entertaining articles on horticulture, education, research and special events. I also want to laud the incredibly talented members of the Arboretum Photographers Society for providing amazing images over the years. Your remarkable work really tells the story of the Arb better than any writer or editor could. And of course, thank you to the talented and dedicated Arboretum gardeners! I’ve always told people I work in the most beautiful place one can work. Whenever I have an episode of writer’s block, I just go outside and walk through the gardens – and problem solved!

When I look at the first issue I produced in April of 2012, all the way up to this one, I am amazed at the changes we made over the years and I am confident the same attention to detail and desire to inspire and delight members will continue in the next editor. Thank you again and I’ll see you around the Arb!

—Patrick Petersen

Patrick B. Petersen, Editor

Brenda Drake Lesch, Art Director

Peter C. Moe, Director, Minnesota Landscape Arboretum

Alan Branhagen, Director of Operations

Timothy S. Kenny, Director of Education

Susan Taylor, Ph.D., Director of Development

Matthew Clark, Ph.D., Director of Research

Tom Lany, Marketing, Communications & PR Manager

Glenn Stolar, President, Arboretum Foundation

Cover Photo by Johanna DeBuhr

PETER C. MOE

Photos by (top) Susie Hopper; (inset portrait) Johanna DeBuhr

GOLDEN WEEPING WILLOW: SNOWY SPRING GIANT

At the back of the Arb’s Weeping Trees Collection stood a beloved tree: a golden weeping willow (Salix alba ‘Tristis’ now S. x pendulina f. salamonii ‘Chrysocoma’). Last year’s exceptional winds damaged the tree to the point that it was identified as a hazard tree. A limb falling from the tree in July meant we had to exclude visitors from around the tree and call a tree removal company.

Visitors loved this tree. To walk beneath it and gaze up at its long pendant branches that swayed in the breeze was a memorable experience. Many a couple were married beneath its canopy.

Golden weeping willows are probably the most ornamental of the cultivars of weeping willows found in gardens. They are actually a hybrid between the European crack willow (Salix fragilis) with the true weeping willow (Salix babylonica). Weeping willow got its name from the hanging gardens of Babylon even though the tree is actually native to China and long ago was brought westward via the Silk Road.

In early spring, the golden weeping willow is a favorite tree in the landscape. With the lengthening days of February its twig and stem color intensifies to a stunning golden yellow – becoming a brilliant, though leafless, icon in the muds of March. A warm color in the sometimes dreariness of the late winter-early spring landscape.

A new golden weeping willow is scheduled to be planted near the site of the one we removed in the Weeping Trees Collection. These trees grow exceptionally fast, so in just a few years we will

have quite a specimen (they mature at 60 feet). This time we will be more careful in pruning the new tree, making sure the branching structure is not full of multi-trunked, tight angled limbs susceptible to storm damage.

Weeping willows are shorter-lived trees but will easily live as long as we do and become

gargantuan trees in that time period. Note the tree planted in the Chinese Garden: off to the right when you walk towards the peony pavilion. The tree thrives in wet sites, but is not good to plant near overhead or underground utilities. In the right locale, it certainly is a memorable garden icon.

ALAN BRANHAGEN • DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS

Photo by Alan Branhagen

Golden Weeping Willow near the Arb's Chinese Garden

BLOOMS FEB. 3-26

February is a tough month in Minnesota! What better time, then, for the botanical pick-me-up that is the Spring Flower Show at the Arboretum!

The theme for this year’s show is Gardening With Nature, featuring a special emphasis on gardens that benefit birds, bees, butterflies and other beneficial insects as well as backyards that utilize found materials, including stumperies and other natural vessels, interspersed with a bounty of blooms.

Arb visitors will get a jump on the 2023 gardening season with a wealth of inspiring ideas at the show, which will feature 18 vignettes throughout the Oswald Visitor Center (including The Eatery) and the Snyder Building.

SPRING FLOWER SHOW

9 a.m.-4 p.m. daily, Feb. 3-26

Cost: Included with daily gate admission arb.umn.edu/flowershow

The balmy Meyer-Deats Conservatory will be the finale, decked out with succulents, orchids and more.

Arboretum staff and partners — including Bachman’s, Tonka Bay Fountains, Kelly’s Cottage Garden, MinneSola Designs, Peacefulmind Media, By the Yard, McCaren Designs, Pete Rose Productions and others — will come together to create inspiring scenes, including flowers suspended from the ceiling and cut floral arrangements.

Best of all, designers will display orchids, daffodils, hyacinths, tulips and fresh-cut flowers to enchant winter-weary visitors with fragrance, color and charm.

SPECIAL TICKETED FLOWER SHOW EVENTS

Opening Night: 6-8 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 2 Be among the first to experience the Spring Flower Show on its opening night. Tickets are $10 for members, $25 for non-members and $5 for ages 2-15.

After Hours With the Flowers: 5-8:30 p.m. Thursdays, Feb. 9, 16 & 23

Explore the Spring Flower Show in an intimate setting – perfect for a date night or special evening with friends – including live music and educational seminars with horticulture experts: Arboretum Director of Operations Alan Branhagen, author of Native Plants of the Midwest: A Comprehensive Guide to the Best 500 Species for the Garden; Kelly Sanquist, owner of Kelly’s Cottage Garden and Ryan McEnaney, Author of Field Guide to Outside Style: Design and Plant your Perfect Outdoor Space. Tickets are $5 for members and $20 for non-members.

Spring Flower Show Teas:

1:30-3:30 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays, Feb. 2-4, 9-11, 16-18 & 23-25

Enjoy the flower show and catch up with friends or family at tea in the Tea Room or Fireplace Room. Sip from a bottomless pot of tea and sample sweet and savory delights. Tickets are $53 for members and $65 for non-members.

Fairy Garden Make & Take:

1-3 p.m. Sundays, Feb. 12 & 26

Get inspired at the Spring Flower Show and then make your own fairy garden to take home. Basic materials, including a garden base, dirt, pebbles, moss, two plants, one fairy and one structure piece, are included. Additional fairy garden pieces will be available for purchase in the Gift & Garden Store. Tickets are $70 for members and $85 for non-members.

SARAH JACKSON • PR/MEDIA SPECIALIST

Spring Flower Show shownarrangements from the 2022 show

Orchids, which naturally bloom indoors in winter, shown during the Arb’s 2022 Spring Flower Show

Photo by Sarah Jackson

Photo by Liz Potasek

AN UNDERAPPRECIATED LANDSCAPE SPECIMEN

BRANDON M. MILLER, PH.D. • ASSISTANT PROFESSOR, DEPARTMENT OF HORTICULTURAL SCIENCE CURATOR OF PLANT COLLECTIONS, UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA LANDSCAPE ARBORETUM

When admiring the birch collection from ThreeMile Walk or surveying the landscape from Three-Mile Drive, the eye is drawn to the wide-spreading tree perched atop the sloped landscape. Unlike many neighboring birch trees, the bark is not white. Instead, the curling, peeling bark exhibits a unique steely-tan color. The texture of this exfoliating bark most closely resembles that of river birch, a staple of Minnesota landscapes. Upon closer inspection the metal label staked at the base of the specimen reveals the identity of this unique tree: Betula davurica

Referred to as the Asian black birch or Dahurian birch, this unusual tree is rarely encountered in North American gardens. It can attain heights of 50 feet at maturity and is known for its characteristic peeling bark and broad-spreading branch habit. The species hails from Manchuria, northern China, and Korea but is seldom cultivated outside of public gardens and university campuses in the United States. This particular tree in the collection was accessioned, or entered, into the curatorial records in 1963. It has since graced this position on the grounds and endured the Minnesota climate for 60 years.

A look into the horticultural literature provides little background on this exquisite landscape option, however, a few claims are made. The first is the apt description of Dahurian birch as sharing ornamental traits with river birch. The second, a statement made in Dirr’s Manual of Woody Landscape Plants (2009), indicates Dahurian birch is likely more capable of tolerating dry and infertile soils better than river birch. One might then question why Dahurian birch is not available in the nursery trade. Perhaps Dirr’s suggestion that the plant is susceptible to bronze birch borer explains this phenomenon? Or perhaps this littleknown tree is simply that, little known. It would seem there is no clear answer and certainly our 60-year-old tree has not fallen victim to pests during its tenure on the property.

Whatever the reason, it is clear when viewing this horticultural oddity that it certainly merits more attention and should be further evaluated to accurately determine its horticultural potential. Check it out on your next Arboretum hike.

Left: Characteristic broadspreading branch habit of Dahurian birch.

Middle: Main trunk and branches of Dahurian birch.

Right: Close-up look at the peeling (exfoliating) bark of Dahurian birch.

Photos by Brandon Miller

SPRINGT IME RETURNS

The arrival of the spring equinox encourages us to find a secluded place away from human noise and activity and let nature come to us. An area with a southern exposure where the strengthening beams of sunlight warm us and chase away memories of freezing cold and wintertime blues is ideal. Here, the uproarious honking of Canada geese can be heard from a woodland pond as they stand and wait for Skadi the Norse goddess of winter to leave and return to her snowcapped mountain home.

A song sparrow announces its joyous springtime arrival on the prairie, crooning atop the withered stalk of a once giant prairie dock. A boreal chorus frog has awakened from its months-long hibernation chirping its first notes like fingers running down the teeth of a comb as

it remains hidden among the dried coppercolored cattails of a prairie pond. The boreal chorus frog overwinters under rocks or leaf litter within 100 yards of its mating site. This early riser will soon be joined by his brothers for a six week annual concert. Wood frogs have also begun their love calls lasting for only two weeks. As the temperature warms, their mallard duck-like quacking creates a crescendo of sound joining the boreal chorus frogs in a springtime symphony.

In the nearby woods, a flock of turkeys are scratching and thrashing through old leaf litter, hoping to find a few remaining morsels of food from the past autumn. The boisterous gobbles of tom turkeys resonate over the hillsides as the increasing daylight sends them into an amorous frenzy. Toms strut about and fan their feathers in an attempt to intimidate their competition and

win the hearts of any interested hens.

The rusty brown leaves of an ancient white oak rustle in a gentle breeze. This oak still stands stately in spite of its hollow holes and broken branches, holding the events of bygone years in its annual tree rings. My grandfather was like this old oak – physically battered and weathered at 103, but still retaining his dignity and a century of memories.

Spring is the time of year to reflect on the past and look forward to a new beginning – and the Arb is a great place to do it!

MATT SCHUTH • NATURALIST

Photos by (top)

Aldo Abelleira; (bottom) Wendy Composto

Turkeys on the ground and in the trees along the Arb’s Prairie Trail below the Sculpture Garden

Biophilia is defined as the innate human instinct to connect with nature and other living things. We have all likely experienced the sensation at one time or another in our lives… the enhanced sounds, smells and visuals create a sense of awe and wonder, perhaps even a kind of euphoria. Scientific studies have even shown that being in nature improves overall health and wellbeing. New for 2023, the Arboretum’s Nature Heals Initiative invites visitors to join Nature-Based Therapeutic Services staff in guided exercises that serve to understand, embrace and explore our desire to connect with nature through unique experiences and activities.

New AWE Walks are coming this spring to the Arboretum, with themed sessions available throughout the growing season. Short for “A Wonder-Filled Experience,” AWE Walks have the goal of raising awareness of how our bodies and minds feel best in nature. Each session will lead participants through grounding breathing exercises and a discussion on biophilia before heading out on a guided sensory walk to interpret the natural environment in new ways. A takeaway memento created during each walk will serve to remember the experience and inspire independent practice in any nature setting. Additional Nature Heals Initiative experiences to look for this season include the

return of Shinrin-yoku (translation: 'Forest Bathing'), a Japanese mindfulness practice that invites nature to be your healer through guided awareness and mindfulness exercises. Dog lovers can look forward to future planned guided sensory on-leash dog walks at the Arboretum’s Dog Commons. Some seasonal days may offer free pop-up Nature Heals stations that share creative and fresh ways to engage with nature. Specialty targeted programs are also planned, specifically created to serve Veterans and their families, elders with dementia and their caregivers, and youth on the autism spectrum and their families.

Browse AWE Walks and other Nature Heals Initiative programs at z.umn.edu/arb-wellbeing

Learn more about the Nature Heals Initiative at z.umn.edu/nature-heals-initiative

Sign up to receive Nature Heals program email updates at z.umn.edu/arbemails

*select the box for Health & Wellbeing

Photos by (left) Brad Palm ; (right) Jeannie Larson

The new Nature Heals Initiative allows visitors to experience and connect with the healing power of nature.

Photo by Brad Palm

AWE Walk guided sensory walk

Creation of a memento like a mini magazine documents the experience

Sarah Palm, Nature Heals Initiative Programming Lead, facilitates an AWE Walk

FULL SNOW MOON SNOWSHOE HIKE

6-9 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 5

Snowshoe under February’s Full Snow Moon during this special after-hours event. February’s full moon is known as the Snow Moon due to the typically heavy snowfall that occurs in February according to the Farmers’ Almanac. Take the 1.4k ice luminary High Point Loop. Warm up around a bonfire between laps around the loop. Snowshoe rental is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Special Ticketed Event. $5 for Arboretum members and ages 15 and younger; $20 for non-members. arb.umn.edu/fullmoonhikes

AFTER HOURS WITH THE FLOWERS

5-8:30 p.m. Thursdays, Feb. 9, 16, 23, Oswald Visitor Center and Snyder Building

Explore the Spring Flower Show in an intimate setting and enjoy live music – perfect for a date night or special evening with friends. Cash bar will be available with wine and beer. Enjoy live music and special presentations by horticulture experts. Special Ticketed Event. $5 for Arboretum members; $20 for non-members. arb.umn.edu/flowershow

SPRING FLOWER SHOW TEAS

1:30-3:30 p.m. Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays in February, Snyder Tea Room and Fireplace Room

OPENING

NIGHT

6-8 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 2, Oswald Visitor Center & Snyder Building

Join us to get the first look at the 2023 Spring Flower Show. We will celebrate the show with live music and meet & greets with the artists and collaborators behind the show. Special Ticketed Event. $10 for Arboretum members; $25 non-members; $5 children 2-15. arb.umn.edu/flowershow

Spend a cozy afternoon enjoying a selection of traditional teas accompanied by pastries and other delightful treats. Enjoy the Flower Show before or after your tea! Special Ticketed Event. $53 for Arboretum members; $65 for nonmembers. arb.umn.edu/ flowershow

FEBRUARY ART FAIR

10 a.m.-4 p.m. Feb. 18-19, Oswald Visitor Center & Snyder Building Stroll through the Spring Flower Show and browse beautiful, creative works featuring botanically themed products from local artisans. The February Art Fair is a great place to find a gift for your favorite Valentine or pick up something special just for yourself. New vendors are encouraged to apply. Included with daily gate admission. arb.umn.edu/febartfair

MAKE & TAKE

1-3 p.m. Sundays, Feb. 12 & 26, MacMillan Auditorium

As part of the Spring Flower Show, this event invites you to use your imagination and make your own Fairy Garden to take home. The Arb provides some basic materials to get you started on crafting your own whimsical garden. Additional fairy garden pieces will be available for purchase in the Gift & Garden Store. Special Ticketed Event. $70 for Arboretum members; $85 for non-members. arb.umn.edu/flowershowmake

FULL WORM MOON HIKE

7:30-10:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 7,

Sensory Garden

Enjoy the Arb after dark on the Full Worm Moon Hike! Did you know this month’s full moon is named the Full Worm Moon because this is the time of year that earthworms start to appear as conditions warm. March weather can still be chilly, so warm up around a bonfire. Path to be determined based on spring weather conditions. Special Ticketed Event. $5 for Arboretum members and ages 15 and younger; $20 for non-members. arb.umn.edu/fullmoonhikes

Photo by Don Olson

Photo by Jason Boudreau-Landis

Photo by Susie Hopper

Photo by Susie Hopper

YOGA CLASSES AND RETREATS

Our Yoga in the Gardens series features year-round, holistic wellness classes led by local instructors. From yoga and pilates classes to Tai Chi and nia, you’ll learn the basics of mindful movement, yoga, breathing, meditation, balance, strength, flexibility, core awareness and deep relaxation.

• Noon Thursday, Feb. 16, MacMillan Auditorium

• 10 a.m. Sunday, Feb. 26, MacMillan Auditorium

• 10 a.m. Sunday, March 5, MacMillan Auditorium

• Noon Thursday, March 16, MacMillan Auditorium

Sessions are for all levels. Special Ticketed Event. $5 for members and $20 for non-members. Please bring your own mat and water bottle.

GALENTINE’S YOGA RETREAT

7 a.m.-1 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 12, Snyder Building

Treat you and your BFF to a special yoga retreat on Galentine’s Day. Start the day with a light breakfast and experience four 45-minute yoga classes led by Onelove.yoga, BKHealing Arts, Yoga4Life Wellness, Nia with Beth Giles and Olivine Yoga. The retreat wraps up with a soul-nourishing lunch and chocolate dessert. The retreat is limited to 20 participants (all levels welcome). Special Ticketed Event. $70 for Arboretum members and $85 for non-members.

SPRING YOGA RETREAT

8 a.m.-1 p.m. Sunday, March 19, MacMillan Auditorium

Celebrate the beginning of spring with a joyful yoga retreat at the Arboretum. Yoga in the Gardens partner studios will lead participants through eight mini classes. All experience levels are welcome. Special Ticketed Event. $35 for Arboretum members and $50 for non-members.

JOIN THE FRIENDS OF THE ANDERSEN HORTICULTURAL LIBRARY

Paul Schlick, FAHL President

Nestled in a bright corner of the Snyder Building is an Arboretum treasure – The Andersen Horticultural Library. Not just a cozy repository for unique collections, including centuries-old volumes and Nakashima furniture, AHL has a worldwide reputation.The Friends of the Andersen Horticultural Library is a very friendly group dedicated to supporting this valuable institution. We publish an informative newsletter, host quarterly meetings and an annual members’ luncheon with speakers who talk on diverse topics, and our annual used book sale fundraiser attracts hundreds. Arboretum members can join for an additional $15 per year per household. What a deal!

Sign-up cards are in the Snyder and Oswald card racks and in the library, or call the library (612301-1239). Please consider joining the Friends. It’s inexpensive, interesting and worthwhile!

2023 ARBORE TUM TR AV EL

WITH ARBORETUM DIRECTOR EMERITUS PETER OLIN, ARBORETUM DIRECTOR PETE MOE, DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS ALAN BRANHAGEN, DIRECTOR OF ADVANCEMENT SUSAN TAYLOR AND NATURALIST MATT SCHUTH

Northern Florida. March 13 – 20.

Join host Susan Taylor on a trip to explore Gainesville, St. Augustine and Jacksonville, Florida. Gainesville highlights include a butterfly rainforest at the Museum of Natural History, Sweetwater Wetlands Park, and the Historic Haile Homestead and its amazing "talking walls.” In St. Augustine, tour goers will see the oldest continually inhabited city in the contiguous U.S. A four-day stop in Jacksonville will include visits to numerous natural sites and the Zoo & Gardens. Contacts: Lynde Vespoli at destinationsandtours@gmail.com or 440-840-6334.

MAPLEFEST

8:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. (by reservation) Saturday, March 25, MacMillan Auditorium

All winter we eagerly await the early spring cold nights and warm days that jump-start maple sap flowing. MapleFest is our celebration of this joyful time of year with all-you-can-eat pancakes smothered in pure maple syrup. Special Ticketed Event. Make reservations for a seating, available on the half hour from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. arb.umn.edu/maplefest

IN-KIND CONTRIBUTORS

For more information on all Arboretum tours, go to arbtravel.umn.edu.

Sue Bitney, Yoga 4 Life Wellness, Matthew Tift, Jan Johnson, Emily Dusek

Photo by Lester Hughes-Seamans

Photo by Jeff Gage

Butterfly Rainforest - Florida Museum of Natural History

JEFF ISEMINGER • CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Memorials you hear much about, but there’s another kind of caring that is more in the here-and-now – what’s called a tribute gift.

At the Arboretum, a tribute can come in a panoply of forms. Here’s one: a bench. Here’s another: a tree.

Heidi Heiland and her family have done both, in honor of their mother, 92-year-old Marnie Hensel, a past president of the Lake Minnetonka Garden Club. “My dad, Carl Hensel, bought a bench for Mom years ago in the crabtree collection,” says Heiland.

The bench honors Marnie, but many others share the joy of sitting amid the springtime explosion of crabtree color. “My sister, Pam Johns, and I visited the bench with Mom on Mother’s Day about 15 years ago,” says Heiland, “and there was a family picnicking on the bench. They told us it was their favorite.”

The family assumed it was a memorial, so they were surprised to learn that it’s a tribute to Marnie, who was – lo and behold – standing before them.

As for the tree, Heiland’s family decided to meld, in a way, a memorial

with a tribute: “With Mom’s help, we’ve already identified a crabtree as a future memorial to her.”

Comfort courses through the inscription on another bench, this one near the Peony Walk, under a beautiful, big basswood. The inscription reads, “May you enjoy a moment of ease and equanimity in this place.”

The givers of this ease are David Griffin and Marjorie Hogan. “The Arboretum is just a place we love to be,” says Griffin. “It’s meditative and full of solace.”

Hogan says they “wanted this bench to be a place for our kids to see today and for others to enjoy. It just feels like the right thing to do.”

The location is part of that just-rightness, says Hogan: “The Arboretum is part of the University of Minnesota, where all four of our parents and I earned our undergraduate degrees and where David and I did our pediatric residencies.”

When you think about it, Griffin and Hogan have given the Arboretum a right-now-not-later writ large – to anyone who wants to soak up the calm that comes from being still on a bench in nature.

Marnie Hensel and Heidi Heiland

David Griffin and Marjorie Hogan’s tribute bench

OF NC-140 APPLE ROOTSTOCK TRIALS

EMILY HOOVER • PROFESSOR AND HEAD, DEPARTMENT OF HORTICULTURAL SCIENCE

All apple trees are grafted— roots and shoots have different genetic backgrounds. The root system (rootstock) of an apple tree influences tree size, life span, productivity, soil adaptability, disease resistance and much more. Testing apple rootstocks is an important part of the research conducted at the Horticultural Research Center, and is essential to the success of apple varieties developed at the University of Minnesota.

Dr. Emily Hoover has led the apple rootstock research program at the University since joining the Department of Horticultural Science in 1982. Much of this research is coordinated through the NC-140 Research Project, a USDA-sponsored initiative started in 1976, evaluating rootstocks from around the world in

plantings across the U.S., Canada and Mexico. These trials determine how different rootstocks perform under different climatic conditions when combined with specific scions (the top part of the grafted tree that we know as the variety). Minnesota serves as the coldest trial site, and gives us a chance to assess which rootstocks are a good match for Honeycrisp, Zestar!® and other University of Minnesota varieties.

When walking through the trials, tree size is the easiest trait to see, and the differences are significant. But tree size isn’t everything! We look for a blend of traits among rootstock/ scion combinations, such as a relatively small tree that is easily managed, but still vigorous. We look for high yields that start fairly early in the tree’s life, balanced with good fruit size.

We look for roots that are well-adapted to a wide range of soils, preferably with some amount of disease resistance. It’s rare to find a rootstock that is a perfect blend of all traits, and different rootstocks are suited to different scion varieties. That’s why new rootstocks are continuously developed and thoroughly tested.

It takes many years to evaluate the effects of a rootstock/scion combination. Most trials are in place for 10 years, which gives researchers the ability to observe characteristics and collect a lot of data in order to make sound recommendations to nurseries and growers.

While apple rootstocks may not have captivating names and don’t get a lot of publicity, they are the foundation of a productive apple tree and a successful orchard.

Photo by Emily Hoover

Calendar At -A- Glance

WINTER BIRD PHOTOGRAPHY

THURSDAY, FEB. 9

PRUNING ESSENTIALS

SATURDAY, FEB. 11

SOIL SCIENCE

SATURDAY, FEB. 11

ONGOING EXHIBITS

REEDY GALLERY

“Visions From the Land: Native Interpretations” • Through March 26 (see back page)

CAFE GALLERY

“Art Flies Free: The Stylings of Olivia Hoppe and Pat Owen” • Through Feb. 12 (see back page)

"Seasons of Beauty" Annual Arboretum Photography Society Juried Show • Feb. 15 – March 19 (see back page)

SKYWAY GALLERY

“Capturing Colors: 5th Annual Flora and Fauna Illustrata Exhibition” • Through Feb. 28 This year's FFI Exhibition features scientifically accurate artwork by local artists depicting flowers, fruits, insects, and other organisms living at the Arboretum that are brightly colored.

ANDERSEN HORTICULTURAL LIBRARY

“The Art of Tiny Things” • Through Feb. 28 Celebrate the tiny things in life! Explore miniature books, as well as art from the Andersen Horticultural Library's collection featuring tiny organisms that are often overlooked, including moss, fungi, lichen, insects and more.

RECURRING FEBRUARYMARCH PROGRAMS & EVENTS

SPRING FLOWER SHOW

9 a.m.-4 p.m. daily, Feb. 3-26, Included with daily gate admission arb.umn.edu/flowershow

(see page 4)

SPRING FLOWER SHOW TEAS

Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays through Feb., Special Ticketed Event. $53 members; $65 non-members

(see page 4)

FEBRUARY-MARCH PROGRAMS & EVENTS

THURSDAY, FEB. 2

SPRING FLOWER SHOW OPENING NIGHT

6-8 p.m., Oswald Visitor Center & Snyder Building

(see page 4)

FRIDAY, FEB. 3

KNIT & STITCH WITH THE AUXILIARY

10 a.m.-noon, included with daily gate admission, Azalea Classroom, Oswald Visitor Center

Spend a morning knitting, crocheting, hand sewing and handcrafting with the Arboretum Auxiliary. Bring your project and materials. Auxiliary members can help you get started and answer questions.

SATURDAY, FEB. 4

GRAFTING: SCIENCE OF PLANT PROPAGATION

9 a.m.-noon, $41/$56, Marion Andrus Learning Center

Learn various grafting techniques of combining two different plants so they grow together. Through hands-on practice, learn the art and science used in the production of many plants.

SUNDAY, FEB. 5

FULL SNOW MOON SNOWSHOE HIKE

6-9 p.m.

(see page 8)

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 8

KNIT & STITCH WITH THE AUXILIARY 10 a.m.-noon, included with daily gate admission, Azalea Classroom, Oswald Visitor Center (see Feb. 3)

THURSDAY, FEB. 9

WINTER BIRD PHOTOGRAPHY (ONLINE)

6:30-8 p.m., $24/$29, Online via ZOOM Explore proper equipment needed for winter bird photography, techniques for photographing birds at the feeder or in flight, insights into winter bird behavior and how to build a backyard bird photography studio. Add an optional in-person practicum with the instructor at the Arb’s feeders on Saturday, Feb. 11, 9:30-11:30 a.m. for an additional $54/$69.

Photos by (left) Don Tredinnick; (middle) Courtesy of Shutterstock

PLANTS & THEIR HABITATS

MONDAY, FEB. 20

BOOKS IN THE GARDEN WEDNESDAY, MARCH 8

FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT: Arboretum.umn.edu/learn.aspx

CLASS REGISTRATION: 612-301-1210

EVENTS, EXHIBITS, GENERAL INFO: 612-624-2200

WINTER YOGA MULTIPLE DATES

AFTER HOURS WITH THE FLOWERS

5-8:30 p.m., Special Ticketed Event. $5/$20, Oswald Visitor Center and Snyder Building (see page 4)

SATURDAY, FEB. 11

PRUNING ESSENTIALS: DECIDUOUS & CONIFEROUS TREES

1:30-4:30 p.m., $41/$56, Oswald Visitor Center

Pruning is essential for the long-term health and vigor of your trees. Learn when and how to prune, how to avoid common mistakes and how to train newly planted trees. There will be on-site demonstrations, weather permitting.

SOILS: SCIENCE OF PLANT PROPAGATION

9 a.m.-noon, $41/$56, Marion Andrus Learning Center

Learn to understand the soil in your garden, including how soil is formed, soil texture and structure, the role of compost, maintaining good drainage, aeration and fertility, and differences between soil in the field and in containers.

SUNDAY, FEB. 12

FAIRY GARDEN MAKE & TAKE

1-3 p.m., Special Ticketed Event. $70/$85, MacMillan Auditorium

(see page 4)

GALENTINE’S YOGA RETREAT

7 a.m.-1 p.m., Special Ticketed Event. $70/$85, Snyder Building

(see page 9)

THURSDAY, FEB. 16

YOGA IN THE GARDENS

Meditation and Yin Yoga taught by onelove.yoga

(see page 9)

AFTER HOURS WITH THE FLOWERS

5-8:30 p.m., Special Ticketed Event. $5/$20, Oswald Visitor Center and Snyder Building

(see page 4)

FRIDAY, FEB. 17

KNIT & STITCH WITH THE AUXILIARY

10 a.m.-noon, included with daily gate admission, Azalea Classroom, Oswald Visitor Center

(see page 8)

SATURDAY, FEB. 18

FEBRUARY ART FAIR

10 a.m.-4 p.m., included with daily gate admission, Oswald Visitor Center & Snyder Building

(See page 8)

PRUNING ESSENTIALS: SHRUBS, WOODY VINES & HERBACEOUS SPECIES

9 a.m.-noon, $41/$56, Marion Andrus Learning Center

Pruning is essential for the long-term health and vigor of your shrubs, vines and most herbaceous species. Learn when and how to prune, how to avoid common mistakes and how to train newly planted trees. There will be on-site demonstrations, weather permitting.

SUNDAY, FEB. 19

FEBRUARY ART FAIR

10 a.m.-4 p.m., included with daily gate admission, Oswald Visitor Center & Snyder Building

(See page 8)

MONDAY, FEB. 20

HOMESCHOOL DAY: PLANTS AND THEIR HABITATS (GRADES 3-6)

12:30-2:30 p.m., $10/$12, Marion Andrus Learning Center

Student scientists will learn to identify diverse plant adaptations from the desert, tropical rainforest and wetland, and create a take-away terrarium with tropical rainforest plants. Fee includes admission for student and one adult educator, and all supplies.

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 22

KNIT & STITCH WITH THE AUXILIARY 10 a.m.-noon, included with daily gate admission, Azalea Classroom, Oswald Visitor Center

(see Feb. 3)

THURSDAY, FEB. 23

AFTER HOURS WITH THE FLOWERS

5-8:30 p.m., Special Ticketed Event. $5/$20, Oswald Visitor Center and Snyder Building

(see page 4)

Photos by (middle) Rawpixel.com at Shutterstock; (right) Lester Hughes-Seamans

Calendar At -A- Glance

11

SIGNS OF SPRING WATERCOLOR WORKSHOP

SATURDAY, MARCH 11

NATURE PHOTOGRAPHY

THURSDAY, MARCH 16

SUNDAY, FEB. 26

YOGA IN THE GARDENS

Snowga taught by Yoga 4 You (see page 9)

FAIRY GARDEN MAKE & TAKE

1-3 p.m., Special Ticketed Event. $70/$85, MacMillan Auditorium (see page 4)

FRIDAY, MARCH 3

2023 SCHOOLYARD GARDENS CONFERENCE

8:30 a.m.-4 p.m., $100/115, Oswald Visitor Center

Join educators from across Minnesota to celebrate the resilient schoolyard gardens community with speakers from the Master Gardener program, Extension's new Schoolyard Gardens Food Safety Handbook, U of M Climate Literacy, Farm to School Minnesota's Harvest of the Month and much more!

KNIT & STITCH WITH THE AUXILIARY 10 a.m.-noon, included with daily gate admission, Azalea Classroom, Oswald Visitor Center (see Feb. 3)

SUNDAY, MARCH 5

YOGA IN THE GARDENS

Nia taught by Beth Giles (see page 9)

TUESDAY, MARCH 7

FULL WORM MOON HIKE

7:30-10:30 pm., Sensory Garden (see page 8)

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 8

KNIT & STITCH WITH THE AUXILIARY 10 a.m.-noon, included with daily gate admission, Azalea Classroom, Oswald Visitor Center (see Feb. 3)

BOOKS IN THE GARDEN 2023: WHY DOES NATURE MATTER?

Noon-1:30 p.m., $110/$155, series also includes April 12, May 10, June 14, July 12, Aug. 9, Oswald Visitor Center

Meet together over six book club sessions to explore why nature is often high on the list of life’s essential aspects. Selected titles include The Botanist ’s Daughter by Kayte Nunn, Writing Wild by Kathryn Aalto, Song of the Dodo by David Quammen, Sisters of the Earth by Lorraine Anderson, Life of Pi by Yann Martel, and As Long as Grass Grows by Dina Gilio-Whitaker.

SATURDAY, MARCH 11

SIGNS OF SPRING

WATERCOLOR WORKSHOP

10 a.m.-4 p.m., $99/$119 (or $139/$159 includes all supplies), Tashjian Bee & Pollinator Discovery Center

Beginner to advanced level: Learn a threestep approach to the watercolor process, and practice mixing a variety of “spring greens.” Investigate color schemes to create mood and work with shape and value to simplify your painting.

CHOCOLATE: FROM SEED TO BAR 1-3 p.m., $42/$57, Marion Andrus Learning Center

Explore the fascinating horticulture and biology of the cacao plant and how it is harvested and processed. Sample assorted chocolates while you learn the various types of chocolate used in cooking and eating, and the flavor profiles of chocolates from places around the globe. All supplies included.

THURSDAY, MARCH 16

YOGA IN THE GARDENS

Gentle Yoga taught by BK Healing Arts (see page 9)

Photo by (left) Valentyn Volkov at Shutterstock; (middle)

Painting by Catherine Hearding; (right)

Photo by Don Tredinnick

CHOCOLATE - FROM SEED TO BAR SATURDAY, MARCH

HUMMINGBIRD IN PASTEL SATURDAY, MARCH 18

JAPANESE WEAVING - SAORI SATURDAY, MARCH 25

EVENTS, EXHIBITS, GENERAL INFO: 612-624-2200

MAPLE SYRUP MAGIC SATURDAY, MARCH 25

INTRO TO CAMERA TECHNIQUES FOR NATURE PHOTOGRAPHY (ONLINE)

6:30-8:30 p.m., $24/$29, online via ZOOM

Learn to utilize the full potential of your camera to capture nature’s beauty. Discuss the exposure triangle, focal lengths, switching from manual mode to focusing mode, how to capture sunbursts and shooting at higher ISO settings. Add an optional in-person practicum in the field with the instructor on Saturday, March 18, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., $69/$84.

FRIDAY, MARCH 17

KNIT & STITCH WITH THE AUXILIARY 10 a.m.-noon, included with daily gate admission, Azalea Classroom, Oswald Visitor Center (see Feb. 3)

SATURDAY, MARCH 18

TULIP: ARBORETUM-INSPIRED DRAWING 10 a.m.-2 p.m., $69/$84, Tashjian Bee & Pollinator Discovery Center

Learn to draw a spring tulip as you develop fundamental drawing skills including observation of shape, line weight, color, layering and blending techniques, as well as shading, composition, perspective and shape. All supplies included.

HUMMINGBIRD IN PASTEL

10 a.m.-1 p.m., $59/$74 (or $89/$104 includes all supplies), Oswald Visitor Center Learn to draw a hummingbird using pastels through demonstrations and practice. Explore the lush delicacy of chalk pastels – a portable, versatile medium with a painterly quality. Some drawing experience suggested.

SUNDAY, MARCH 19

SPRING YOGA RETREAT

8 a.m.-1 p.m., Special Ticketed Event. $35/$50, MacMillan Auditorium (see page 9)

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 22

KNIT & STITCH WITH THE AUXILIARY

10 a.m.-noon, included with daily gate admission, Azalea Classroom, Oswald Visitor Center (see Feb. 3)

CLIMATE-READY GARDENING (ONLINE)

Self-paced online module, $30/$35, online via Canvas Minnesota’s climate is changing, affecting how gardeners are able to manage their gardens and landscapes. Learn to be a climateready gardener in this online, at-your-own-pace module developed by University of Minnesota Extension. Module opens March 22 with access through June 30.

SATURDAY, MARCH 25

MAPLEFEST

8:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., (Special ticketed event, by reservation), MacMillan Auditorium (see page 9)

MORE MAPLE SYRUP MAGIC: HANDS-ON COOKING CLASS 9-11 a.m., $55/$70, Marion Andrus Learning Center

Learn to use maple syrup in deliciously unique ways. Explore its botanical background, then prep and taste Maple Kale Chips, Pizza with Caramelized Onions, Maple & Brie, Maple Granola Bars and Maple Vinaigrette. All supplies included.

FRIDAY, MARCH 31

KNIT & STITCH WITH THE AUXILIARY 10 a.m.-noon, included with daily gate admission, Azalea Classroom, Oswald Visitor Center (see Feb. 3)

Painting by (left) Ann Solyst; (middle)

Photo by Wendy DePaolis; (right)

Photo by NewAfrica at Shutterstock

TELEPHONE DIRECTORY

General Information

Andersen Horticultural Library

Auxiliary Membership & Events Info

Contributions

Education

Gift and Garden Store

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Membership

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Volunteering

Yard & Garden Help Desk

612-624-2200

612-301-1239

612-625-9865

612-301-1266

612-301-1210

612-301-7619

612-301-4353

612-301-1257

612-301-1266

612-301-1203

612-301-7590

Website arboretum.umn.edu

AppleHouse Info Line

Gate Reservations/Ticketing

612-301-3487

612-301-6775

If you prefer to receive the Arboretum Magazine electronically, please call 612-301-1257.

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A publication for members and friends of the Arboretum

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The University of Minnesota is an equal opportunity educator and employer. ©2022 Minnesota Landscape Arboretum.

ART AT THE ARBORETUM

Make the art galleries at the Arboretum part of every visit. All art is for sale through the Gift and Garden Store with proceeds going to fund the Arboretum and the local artist community. arb.umn.edu/art-galleries

REEDY GALLERY

“Visions From the Land: Native Interpretations” • Through March 26

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to view the work of four regional Indigenous artists –James Autio, Gordon Coons, Anna Johnson and Ivy Vainio. Each artist uses a different technique or process to produce captivating art, inspired by the natural world.

CAFE GALLERY

“Art Flies Free: The Stylings of Olivia Hoppe and Pat Owen” • Through Feb. 12

Discover the freedom these artists explore as they paint the flora and fauna of our surroundings. Hoppe chooses to use homegrown gourds as her canvas while Owen deeply observes and paints our feathered friends. Both artists create without restrictions, to discover their own artistic voice.

"Seasons of Beauty" Annual Arboretum Photography Society Juried Show • Feb. 15 – March 19

This annual juried show is a way to showcase the extraordinary talents of the Arboretum Photography Society (APS) members. The exhibit includes images depicting the beauty of the seasons as taken by APS members throughout their careers.

SKYWAY GALLERY

“Capturing Colors: 5th Annual Flora and Fauna Illustrata Exhibition” • Through Feb. 28 (see page 12)

ANDERSEN HORTICULTURAL LIBRARY

“The Art of Tiny Things” • Through Feb. 28 (see page 12)

“Art Flies Free” in the Cafe Gallery

Printed with Agri Based Inks

Painting by Olivia Hoppe

Painting by Pat Owen