Star Nursery's Green Pages Spring 2017

Perennial Color A long term relationship

How to Care for

Beautiful Succulents

Seasonal Tasks from the Desk Of Dr. Q

Texas Mountain Laurel Sophora secundiflora

Improve Your

CURB APPEAL • Decorative Rock • Flagstone • Wall Rock • River Rock • Boulders • Bulk Soil • Bulk Sand

•Create a Maintainable and Drought Tolerant Landscape

Decorative Rock Yards Nevada

Arizona

Utah

Las Vegas

Kingman

Dixie

2600 West Ann Rd. (702)216-7837

4140 Stockton Hill Road (928) 757-3701

1335 South Dixie Dr. (435)628-8004

5380 Blue Diamond Rd. (702) 444-7837

Fort Mohave

St. George

6325 Hwy 95 (928)788-STAR(7827)

1145 West Sunset Blvd.

(435)688-STAR(7827)

8725 South Eastern Ave. (702) 216- 7852 Pahrump 911 Buol Rd. (775)727-5300

Lake Havasu 1141 N. Lake Havasu Ave. (928) 505-5255

DELIVERY SERVICE AVAILABLE

Garden Centers Las Vegas, NV Ann Road & Simmons 2600 W. Ann Road North Las Vegas, NV 89031 (702) 216-STAR (7827) West Cheyenne & Tenaya 7330 W. Cheyenne Ave. Las Vegas, NV 89129 (702) 253-STAR (7827) West Charleston Blvd. & Cimarron 8170 W. Charleston Blvd.

Las Vegas, NV 89117 (702) 360-STAR (7827) West Tropicana & Fort Apache 9480 West Tropicana Ave. Las Vegas, NV 89147 (702)278-STAR (7827) Boulder Hwy & East Tropicana 5340 Boulder Highway Las Vegas, NV 89122 (702) 435-STAR (7827) South Eastern & Pebble 8725 S. Eastern Ave. Las Vegas, NV 89123 (702) 333-STAR (7827)

Star Nursery is a complete Garden Center that is independently owned and operated. We cater to both residential and commercial clientele. Currently, we operate in Southern Nevada, Southern Utah and Northern Arizona with a total of 15 Garden Centers and 9 Decorative Rock Yards.

We offer a complete line of dry goods including irrigation supplies, fertilizers, and an array of gardening accessories and tools. We carry a large assortment of trees, shrubbery, drought-tolerant plants, succulents, houseplants and more.

We, also have a have a selection of hardscape products ranging from flagstone to pavers to rock. Find everything you need to maintain a beautiful landscape or garden space.

We pride ourselves in giving our customers the right price and the best advice.

Star Nursery -Your garden’s partner for every bloomin’ thing since 1983.

Blue Diamond & Lindell 5380 Blue Diamond Road Las Vegas, NV 89139 (702) 444-STAR (7827)

Pahrump, NV

Kingman, AZ

St. George, UT

Buol Rd & Hwy 372 911 Buol Road Pahrump, NV 89048 (775) 727-5300

Stockton Hill Rd & Gordon Dr 4140 Stockton Hill Road Kingman, AZ 86409-2444 (928) 757-3701

Sunset Blvd. & Bluff St. 1145 W. Sunset Blvd.

St. George, UT 84770 (435) 688-STAR (7827) Dixie Dr. & Gubler Ln. 1335 S. Dixie Drive St. George, UT 84770 (435) 628-8004

Mesquite, NV

Fort Mohave, AZ

Washington, UT

Commerce & Pioneer 549 Commerce Circle Mesquite, NV 89027 (702) 613-4770

Mohave Valley Hwy & Boundary Cone Rd 6325 HWY 95 Fort Mohave, AZ 86426-6029 (928) 788-STAR (7827)

Telegraph & 500 West 385 W. Telegraph Road Washington, UT 84780 (435) 986-0820

A Note From Our Staff The Editor Editor-in-Chief

Nina Gallagher

Art/Design Taylor White

Contributing Writers Crystal Gwaltney Terry Newcomb Paul Noe Annette Larsen Brandi Eide - Springs Preserve Contributors Doug Ryan Photography Springs Preserve

Free Subscription Sign up today for a free subscription to Star Nursery’s Green Pages, or sign up at starnursery.com Name:_______________________________ Address______________________________ City___________State______Zipcode_____ Email________________________(optional)

Bring to a Star Nursery location or mail to: Green Pages 125 Cassia Way Henderson, NV 89014

Get inspired outdoors! Spring is bountiful with beautiful things. It’s a great time to learn more about the environment you reside in and how you can help Mother Nature improve upon its beauty. I can honestly state that it is my favorite season of all. Not only does my birthday fall into this season, but it’s a great time to begin again.

Start with your favorite neighborhood garden center – Star Nursery. Look at all of the seasonal beauties.

Go in armed with the right information to fulfill your needs for your space. You’ll want to know what kind of exposure you get in the area you plan to plant in. Know your soil conditions. What kind of plan do you have for watering? What kind of maintenance are you willing to take on?

Just knowing a few of these answers will help a Sales Team member help you make better decisions and be more successful as a gardener.

So, get out where the ladybugs roam. Plant some beautiful things with your kids in toe. And, enjoy everything this season has to offer.

Renew. Refresh. Revive. It’s spring time! Happy Gardening!

Nina Gallagher

Your Garden’s Partner for Every Bloomin’ Thing!

Circulation & Distribution Western Mailing Services 530 Pamalyn Suite C, Las Vegas NV, 89119 Phone (702) 896-7363 Fax (702) 896 -8972

Foodie Garden What came first? The Gardener or The Foodie?

We’ve noticed a correlation between people who love to grow vegetables and people who love to eat really good food. We think it’s only natural that a person who is passionate about their food will eventually learn to grow something to eat because, let’s face it, a home-grown tomato will beat out store bought in a taste test any day of the week! This spring, we invite you to think like a foodie and get hungry for some new varieties to add to your garden.

The Pizza Lover’s Garden Thin crust or deep dish arguments aside, the key is a good sauce. Grow ‘San Marzano’ Tomatoes, Fennel and ‘Genovese’ Basil. For a twist on a classic, try growing the ‘Hot & Spicy’ Oregano.

The Cocktail Hour Garden What’s better than a perfectly crafted and freshly muddled cocktail? Getting it in your very own backyard! Grow herbs like Mint, ‘Opal’ Basil and Lemon Verbena. Then invest in a good shaker and a hammock. Is it 5 o’clock yet?

World Traveler Garden Think you’ve impressed your friends with pictures of your recent trip to India? Wait until they taste the curry that you just whipped up using ingredients from your garden! Grow ‘Japanese’ Eggplant, ‘Cube of Butter’ Zucchini, Curry and Cilantro.

The Some Like it Hot Garden Some people like spicy food and some like their food to melt their faces off. We have both people covered.

Grow ‘Mole’ and ‘Anaheim’ Peppers to keep things tasty yet mild. Turn up the heat with ‘Ghost’ Pepper, Habanero and Serrano Peppers.

Colorful Cacti Cacti have so much to offer, and for the little they require from us, the rewards are great.

Flowers Most cacti bloom from spring through early summer, and when in bloom, they really put on a show. In the desert, many cacti blend so well with the surrounding environment they remain easily camouflaged and can go unnoticed. However, once in flower there is no missing them, even when driving by at 65 mph. Cactus flowers are short-lived, remaining open from a few hours to several days with bloom colors in white, green, yellow, red, orange, pink and purple. The range of colors is stunning, and to see a neon-bright flower amid a muted-toned desert is a spectacular sight.

Spines Several cacti have bright spines that add wonderful color to the landscape.

Ferocactus acanthodes (fire barrel), and many other Ferocactus (barrel cacti) have spines with colors ranging from pink-red to orange and yellow. Opuntia macrocentra (purple prickly pear) often have very long porcupine-like spines with black-red to white gradation, which are highlighted in contrast to the blue green or purple hues of the plant. Cylindropuntia (cholla) are often overlooked as a choice in yards, however, they are a wonderful barrier plant and also provide wonderfully bright flowers and spines that glow when backlit with the rising or setting sun. Unlike short-lived flowers, spines provide gorgeous color all year and add incredible texture to a landscape, just be mindful of plant placement.

Fruit Some cacti have colorful fruit that can remain for several weeks which provide visual interest and are also a draw for wildlife. Opuntia (prickly pear), Ferocactus (barrel cacti), Echinocactus, Echinopsis and Mammillaria are just some of the genera that can display bright fruit after their stunning floral show.

Flesh In addition to spines, plant color provides year-round color.

Most cacti have hues of greens and blues, though in different seasons plant tissue can change.

Cold weather and intense sun can cause pink and purple tones, a stress response creating colorful pigments as protection, (sometimes plant stress is desirable). In summer months, some cacti may lighten and yellow on the SW sides which is a warning that they need a bit more protection.

Remember, many cacti do not tolerate full sun conditions in the low desert, and there are varying temperature tolerances as well.

There are so many incredible cacti to choose from to lend color and structure to a landscape and many are great as potted plants. Experiment with a few different plants and once you watch your own cactus bloom, you too may become a cactophile.

The Cactus and Succulent Society is a dynamic group that unites people from novice to expert with monthly meetings, talks given by an array of speakers, plant sales, plant auctions and give-aways. This group is a wealth of knowledge and branches are found in many cities around the world.

Find your local branch at cssainc.org

Brandi Eide, Springs Preserve

Unbelievably Easy Front Porch-Scaping

Ever wonder what your front porch is saying to your guests?

It’s easy to generate a warm fuzzy feeling that says “I’m so glad you’re here!

Come in and stay awhile!”Creating an inviting front entryway can be so much more than plopping down a clever or cute welcome mat. What it doesn’t have to be is difficult or time consuming. You can create a welcoming front porch faster than you can whip up a batch of cookies to serve to those invited guests! Think in rules of 3.

Cluster 3 pots together either on one side or both sides of your front door or entryway. You can use pots of all different colors, sizes and shapes. Or keep them all matching depending on your style and taste. We like to use pots in staggering heights. Tall, medium and short. Next you pick your plants. Pick one to give you scale.

One to add surprise and one to add color that can be easily swapped out seasonally.

Be sure to ask for help from the nursery to pick plants that are appropriate for the sun orientation that you have.

Scale: For your tallest pot, pick a plant

that is considerably tall and will balance the height of the pot. We like things that have staying power like spiral junipers or topiary privets. This will also create a nice neutral backdrop for any plants that will go in-front of it.

Surprise: For your medium height pot, pick something unexpected to add contrast like a dracaena or a variegated lily turf. Placing a plant with variegated foliage adds interest without having to rely on flowers that won’t last as long.

Color: In your shortest pot, add a pre-planted color bowl that is appropriate for the season. This is where you can add the fun of seasonal color without having to plant an entire flower bed! Change out every 3 months, or whenever a special occasion arises.

You could plant the scale and surprise plants into the pots using a potting soil like Dr. Q’s Filthy Rich Gold Potting Soil. Or you could simply set them inside the decorative pots for quick change outs. That way if you need a quick party spruce up, you can simply buy a replacement pre-planted color bowl to drop into your pretty pot. Fresh and welcoming in mere

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What Would Dr. Q Do? Questions from concerned gardeners!

Q. What do you mean by “amending the soil”?

A. Amending the soil is to add in the things that our soil is missing in order to promote healthy root growth for plants. The most important of these amendments is organic mulch or planting mix. This adds in the organic matter that is so important for root growth. It also helps loosen heavy clay or compacted soil to improve drainage, and increases the activity of soil organisms which makes fertilizer easier for plants to use. Other soil amendments include soil sulfur, or soil acidifier, to counteract the high alkalinity of our soil, and a starter fertilizer to add the nutrients that plants need to get started and continue growing properly. These “amendments” are vital to give all non-native plants a good start in our desert soils, and for you to be successful in your gardening projects!

For step-by-step instructions on how to use these products, see our StarNote #001 Planting Guide.

Q. When should I fertilize and what should I use?

Q. What is the best kind of tree to plant in our yard?

A. Right now is a good time to fertilize most plants, if you haven’t already. Plants are waking up from their winter sleep and they need a boost to put on healthy new growth to withstand severe summer heat. Plants also need fertilizing now for flower and fruit production. If you want to promote good leaf growth like for shade trees, hedges or vines, use a high nitrogen fertilizer like our Tree, Shrub & Vine Food (16-8-4). If you want to produce more flowers on plants, use our Rose & Flower Food (6-12-4) that has more phosphorus. For desert plants, we have our Desert Plant & Cactus Food (5-10-9) that is a milder fertilizer for these plants.

For more information on fertilizers, check out our StarNote #600 Fertilizer Basics.

A. This all depends on what it is you want the tree to do for you!

Do you want it to shade your house from the hot afternoon sun? Do you want it to block an ugly view or for privacy? Do you want it to block the cold winter wind from your back yard? Or maybe you just want it for its decorative flowers for an accent or focal point in your yard? The function of the tree will narrow your choices down to a reasonable number. My suggestion is to pick up a free copy of the Southern Nevada Guide to Tree Selection and Care at any of our stores to get a good look at your best options.

Q. What is the best way to water my shrubs and trees?

A. This is done to protect the trunks from sun scalding in the summer. Many trees are susceptible to sun burning if exposed to the south or west facing sun.

Fruit trees, Flowering Plum and Ash are just a few that have this problem. If not protected, the trunks can get severe damage like dark sunken tissue and cracking of the bark that stresses the tree. This opens the door for insects or disease to enter these areas. This is how borers get into most trees. Trunks and exposed branches should be protected with a water based white latex paint to reflect the sun or a protective tree wrap that allows air in but keeps the sun out.

A. Drip irrigation puts the water in the root zone where it’s needed. The low volume emitters let you water longer and less often, saves water, saves plants and saves your pocket book! Remember, drip irrigation emitters are calibrated in gallons per hour, so they are made to run for at least one hour to get that much water to your plants!

18

Q. What is the purpose of painting tree trunks white?

Perennial Color

– A Long-Term Relationship As consumers we make different types of purchases every day. It might be as short-lived as a cup of coffee or a long-term investment like purchasing a family home.

Perennials are the long-term relationship in the world of flowers. They live for 3 or more years depending on the variety, bloom reliably and require a little more care than annual flowers. Although blooms may decrease as the summer temperatures creep up, the early spring season associated with the desert southwest kick-starts many varieties into blooming early once they are established. Investing in perennial color for the pots on your patio or as a permanent addition to your landscape is the beginning of something that can be enjoyed for many years to come. It is wise to mix several varieties with different bloom times in flower beds and pots so you always have something sizzling in the garden.

Gaillardia ‘Blanket Flower’ As a member of the Sunflower family this perennial thrives in multiple growing zones, it is heat and drought tolerant, tolerates poor soil conditions and blooms spring to fall. Gaillardia is a true native perennial. There are 12 species native to the United States and at least one species is found in every state of the nation. This popular perennial comes in many shades of yellow, red and orange.

Sometimes the petals are trumpet-shaped and sometimes they have beautiful flat petals with lacey edges. For best results – provide medium moisture and deadhead regularly.

Here are a few tried and true champions that are sure to please:

Gaura ‘Whirling Butterflies’ This “wildflower of the desert” has become a true favorite at Star Nursery. The extensive display of pink flowers begins to bloom in the early spring, through the summer heat and into the late days of fall. Select a location in full sun or partial shade, allow for it to spread 25-30 inches, don’t over-water it and just wait for the show.

Gaura ‘Whirling Butterflies’

Leucanthemum ‘Shasta Daisy’ This classic daisy that was named after Mount Shasta is a long-time favorite and an essential to a proper perennial garden. The large, single flowers on sturdy blooms are eyecatching to say the least. Over the years many varieties have become available to home gardeners – dwarf, yellow shades, double-blooming and more. The garden standard like ‘Alaska’ or ‘Becky’ will grow up to 3 feet tall, likes to be dead-headed and are generally trouble free.

Leucanthemum ‘Shasta Daisy’

Echinacea ‘Cone Flower’ Echinacea adapt to a wide range of growing conditions.

A location that provides shade in the late afternoon will allow this plant to perform best in desert growing zones.

This plant is naturally drought tolerant so good drainage is very important. The bold colored blooms that attract pollinators and the medicinal properties of flowers, leaves and roots quickly make Echinacea the hardest working plant in the landscape.

Echinacea ‘Cone Flower’

Salvia ‘Autumn Sage’ This perennial is often over-looked in the nursery. It may be that it has become too common to many desert gardeners or hasn’t been pruned properly to promote bloom. Whatever the case may be – we really need to give this showy bloomer another look. Not only do they start-up as spring fades to summer but butterflies and hummingbirds love them. It stays compact, smells wonderfully clean and has beautiful pink, red or purple blooms. Prune Autumn Sage back hard in the late winter and again in late summer. The plant will start to show new growth almost overnight and blooms will follow. It is drought and heat tolerant but it looks better if it gets a little more water than other desert plants.

By: A. Larsen

Salvia ‘Autumn Sage’

Houseplants

There are so many reasons to add plants to your living or work space but the health benefits are at the top of the chart.

Here are some fool-proof tips to get you off to a good start:

Plants have been shown to: • Purify the air and help get rid of harmful organic compounds.

• Reduce stress and lower blood pressure by creating a calming effect.

• Improve memory and focus.

• Contribute to an overall sense of well-being.

1. Drainage: Pick pots or containers with drainage holes.

Think you don’t have a green thumb?

We’ve all been there.

You finally commit to buying a beautiful houseplant and put it in the prettiest pot and it makes you so very happy.

Then, almost as quickly as it came, that happiness fades with the wilting and eventual death of your cute little green friend. ::Play sad violin tune::

Roots need air to live and planting them into a pot without holes is condemning them to a slow death by drowning.

Make sure there are holes in the pot and a drain plate to catch the draining water.

Empty that drain plate a few minutes after watering.

2. Light: Check the plant’s needs.

Even the most low-light tolerant plants need light to live.

Photosynthesis is a plant’s well balanced diet.

There should be enough light to read a book by for most of the day.

3. Soil: Not all are created equal.

Succulents and cactus are a trendy option for bright indoor spaces, but remember that their needs are different than those of a traditional houseplant.

Traditional houseplants need a good water absorbing potting soil.

Cactus and succulents need the opposite.

They need a sandy well-draining soil and need to dry out between waterings.

SunKissed

by Strawberries

Sun-kissed strawberries, still warm from your garden tend to stay at the top of Mother Natures’ list of desserts. It only takes a few rows of plants to fill your decorative fruit bowl plus some zip-lock bags for the freezer. And, for an even more decadent dessert, drizzle melted chocolate over a few. By growing different varieties, you can enjoy the luscious bounty of a strawberry patch in the spring.

Here are some varieties that do well in the Southwest Region: Eversweet Strawberry – Fragaria ‘Eversweet’ This ever-bearing variety tolerates temps well above 100F with no loss of fruit quality. The large berries are exceptionally sweet and flavorful. They require rich, well- draining soil. The Eversweet Strawberry is great for patio gardening in containers or hanging baskets.

Berries Galore Strawberry – Fragaria ‘Berries Galore’ Berries Galore are an excellent option for both as an ornamental or as an edible. This variety does not produce runners, but will produce loads of tasty berries. It’s easy to grow and great for beginners. Make sure to plant in morning sun, rich, well- drained soil and give regular water and fertilizer.

Pretty in Pink Strawberry – Fragaria ‘Pretty in Pink’ Pretty in Pink is probably my most favorite of all. It has eye- catching pink flowers that make this plant a standout in garden beds and containers. Ever-bearing plants produce sweet mid-size deep red berries. Plant these beauties in rich soil with good drainage. They do best in morning sun and afternoon shade.

Quinault Strawberry – Fragaria ‘Quinault’ The Quinault is the queen of ever-bearing large fruit. It does well in garden beds or containers.

Because of its large fruit, you should plant them at least 14-16 inches apart. A great way to keep your berries clean and ready for picking is to use mulch to control weeds. It will also conserve moisture.

Planting strawberries may seem like a daunting task, but it honestly serves to be both therapeutic as well as fun. The tasks are simple. It’s all in the preparation of the soil. Amending your soil is a key element. Next, set your plants 14-16 inches apart.

This will allow room for your young plant to mature. The crown of your plant should be above soil level. A buried crown could actually produce rot. Place mulch around the plant to deter weeds and keep your berries clean.

As for care, it’s quite simple. Give your plants consistent moisture during the growing season. It’s easiest to use a drip irrigation system.

For more information, visit your neighborhood Star Nursery Garden Center and one of our knowledgeable team members will be happy to assist your with your garden needs.

SEASONAL TASKS from

Dr. Q APRIL

MAY

JUNE, JULY AND AUGUST

• Brighten up your yard. Plant all kinds of annual and perennial flowers for spring and summer color. Set out ground covers. Gazania, Ice Plants, Hearts and Flowers, Ivy, Verbena and Australian Racer are some good choices. After planting, use a pre-emergent weed control. See our friendly sales associates for details.

• Reset sprinkler clocks to increase watering length due to increased temperatures. The best time to water is between the hours of 3 and 6 AM. Check with any Star Nursery for a copy of the Southern Nevada Water Authority Watering Guide or Drought Watering Restrictions Guide. Inspect your irrigation system for correct water delivery to all plants.

• Second application of Pre-emergent weed control.

Depending on the amount and timing of your first application, it may have become ineffective by now.

Weeds will continue to start from seed throughout the warm season (especially with the summer rains).

• Pretty, but destructive. Watch for skeletonizers on grape leaves. Adults are iridescent purple moths and the attractive caterpillars are striped blue and yellow (with stinging, irritating hairs). Untreated they will strip all the green from the leaves very quickly. Several generations a season may weaken or kill your vines.

Treat with Bacillus Thuringensis (Bio Worm Killer or Thuricide) which will kill all kinds of caterpillars but won’t hurt anything else.

• Control wild unwanted Bermuda by fertilizing and watering it until it is lush (this will make the plant more vulnerable), then treat with a non-selective grass killer like Remuda® or Round-up®. Several treatments may be necessary for effective control.

An alternative is to cultivate the Bermuda. It makes a dense, water efficient turf when properly contained and cared for. Treated areas can be replanted or reseeded after dead turf is removed. These herbicides are also effective in treating tree wells and shrub beds without harm to desirable plants. Remember – keep herbicide off of desirable plant foliage!

• Apply mulches on the surface of your vegetable and flower beds and around trees and shrubs. It keeps the soil cool and helps moisture retention. Paydirt™ Planting Mix is an excellent choice for all mulching needs. Bark mulch is a good alternative in high wind areas.

• Give lawns a workout to prepare them for the hot summer months. StarNote 820, Lawn Care and Maintenance Calendar, lists fertilizer choices (StarNote 825 for Southern Utah). Continue over seeding as needed and aerate the lawn every 2-3 years.

• Vegetable Tips. Mulch tomatoes to conserve soil moisture and water deeply, but not every day, to encourage deep rooting and discourage blossom drop. Plant warm season vegetables like squash, peppers, beans and melons. Plant hot season tomatoes like Heatwave which will continue to produce as temperatures climb. Feed monthly with Dr. Q’s® Vegetable & Tomato Food (6-10-6).

• Aggressively manage insect pests with insecticides or organic controls. Paint fruit tree trunks with white, water-base paint or use tree wrap to protect from sunburn and help prevent borer infestation.

• Refresh potted plants by adding new potting soil or shifting overgrown house and patio plants into larger containers with fresh soil. Use a long slow outdoor watering to leach buildup of fertilizer and water soluble salts. Apply a mild fertilizer like Dr. Q’s® Gold Dust (5-10-5) or Dr. Q’s Houseplant Tonic (5-3-1). Use cache-pots to surround patio plants and keep them from overheating. Increase watering frequency as needed.

• Prune desert plants. Now is a good time to do light pruning on low-water use plants and reduce stress from overgrown foliage and seedpods. Be careful not to expose tender trunks to full sun if they’ve been well shaded previously.

• Be picky about fertilizer. Most ornamentals will benefit from a mild feeding of a complete, packaged fertilizer like Dr. Q’s® Tree, Shrub & Vine Food (16-8-4). Fertilize lawns before the end of the month to get them through the first heat wave. Renew mulches as necessary.

• Plant heat-loving flowers like Texas Bluebells, Star Flowers, Vinca, Marigold, Moss Rose and Zinnias.

Amend soil thoroughly and use surface mulches to make them more water efficient. Continue to plant summer flowers like Dahlias and Cannas.

• Do NOT fertilize your regular (non-Palm) plants with high nitrogen (over 7%) now!

• Fertilize palms 2-3 times during this period with Dr. Q’s® Palm Tree Food (14-4-14) to provide the special nutrients needed for vigorous growth and rich, green color.

• More is not always better! Resist the temptation to water everything to death in the heat. Just because a plant “looks dry” does not mean it needs more water.

If the soil is watered too often, the plant can not breathe, and can not take up the water in its soil.

• Consult your watering guide. If watering grass more than once a day, space the waterings one hour apart. With the exception of new lawns, never water between the hours of 11 AM to 2 AM. Afternoon water evaporates before it can penetrate the soil and early to middle of the night water encourages fungal diseases. Deep, infrequent water and surface mulches keep your shrubs and trees healthy through this stressful time.

• Prevent and control Spider Mites on evergreens like cypress and juniper by using a high pressure hose to wash the foliage every 2-3 weeks. Symptoms include a dusty, off color or rust colored appearance and fine webbing on the foliage. Apply a miticide like Malathion, Bug-b-Gon or Insect, Mite & Disease Control if infestation becomes severe.

• Keep your lawn healthy without excessive growth by using a balanced, high iron fertilizer like Dr. Q’s Triple Play (7-7-7) or Super Iron Plant Food (99-9). Watch for summer weeds like dandelions and spurge. Pull by hand or spot spray with a broadleaf weed killer. Don’t spray your whole lawn. Herbicidetemperature interaction could cause severe damage.

• Control insect pests like roaches, ants, black widows, earwigs and sow (roly-poly) bugs with chemical or pyrethrin based insecticides. When using any pesticide, read complete instructions and follow package directions exactly!

Want more? Watch Dr. Q on TV and Youtube youtube.com/starnurserydrq Sunday Channel 8 6:30 am | Saturday Channel 13 6:55 am

Garden Edibles‌ Pea Shoot and Baby Arugula Salad with Meyer Lemon Vinaigrette Have peas and arugula(rocket) growing in your garden this spring?

Try this light salad as a great accompaniment to roast chicken.

Recipe and Photo by: Merrill Stubbs Food52.com, 2012 Makes 4 servings Ingredients: Juice and zest of one small Meyer lemon 2 tablespoons rice vinegar 1 teaspoon honey Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste 6 tablespoons vegetable oil 4 cups densely packed pea shoots 4 cups densely packed baby or wild arugula Preparation: In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice and zest, vinegar, honey and salt and pepper. Slowly drizzle in the oil, whisking constantly to emulsify. Set aside. Wash and dry the pea shoots and arugula. If you’re using mature arugula, roughly chop it into bitesized pieces. Put all of the greens in a large bowl. Add about half the dressing, toss gently and taste. If necessary, add more dressing, salt and pepper.

Serve immediately.

Essential

for

Spring Your Garden’s Partner for Every Bloomin’ Thing!

6 Garden Tips • Watch out for strong winds. Spring often comes early to the Desert Southwest. Winds can stress new plantings and burn young leaves. Water deeply and make sure all new trees are STAKED PROPERLY. Use multiple poles and soft ties to keep trees from breaking or blowing over.

• Finish planting Dormant Pot Roses and Fruit Trees. All planting should be completed

by Valentine’s Day or the plants may not survive the coming summer heat.

• “Wake up” Established roses. About 3 weeks after pruning, get roses ready for the spring blooming period with the “Star Potion” discussed in StarNote 605, Fertilizer Mixture for Established Roses.

• Fertilize fruit trees and grapes early in the month. The greatest need for nitrogen is about 6 weeks before and after bloom. Proper feeding during this period helps ensure the highest quality fruit. The use of a soil alkalinity modifier like Con-Gro can substantially enhance your plants uptake of nutrients. The “Star Potion” for fruit trees is discussed in StarNote 610, Fertilizer Mixture for Established Fruit Trees.

• Frost damaged plants. If damaged by a freeze or hard frost, leave plants unpruned and undisturbed until later in spring. Pruning or transplanting after such damage may further weaken or kill the plant. When new growth emerges, you’ll see where to prune it.

• Prevent spring lawn weeds through application of a granular pre-emergent weed control product. Amaze® or Bonide Crabgrass and Broadleaf Weed Preventer give excellent pre-emergent control in tree wells, shrub and flowerbeds.

For more information about seasonal gardening, visit our website.

Or, visit one of our garden centers.

www.starnursery.com

How to care for:

Beautiful Succulents Succulents are booming in popularity for two simple reasons: they are beautiful and nearly indestructible. Technically, a succulent is any plant with thick, fleshy (succulent) water storage organs. Succulents store water in their leaves, their stems or their roots. These plants have adapted to survive arid conditions throughout the world, from Africa to the deserts of North America. Fortunately for us, this adaptive mechanism has resulted in an incredible variety of interesting leaf forms and plant shapes, including paddle leaves, tight rosettes, and bushy or trailing columns of teardrop leaves. As a group, succulents include some of the most well-known plants, such as aloe vera, jade and agave. Cacti are a unique subset of the succulent group. Succulents make excellent display plants in dish gardens. No matter what kind of succulent you’re growing, the rules are pretty similar between the different species. Here are the general rules for growing top-quality succulents: Light: Succulents prefer bright light, such as found on a south-facing window. Watch the leaves for indications that the light level is correct. Some species will scorch if suddenly exposed to direct sunlight. The leaves will turn brown or white as the plant bleaches out and the soft tissues are destroyed. Alternatively, an under-lit succulent will begin to stretch, with an elongated stem and widely spaced leaves. This condition is known as etoliation. The solution is to provide better light and prune the plant back to its original shape.

Many kinds of succulents will thrive outdoors in the summer.

Temperature: Succulents are much more cold-tolerant than many people assume. As in the desert, where there is often a marked contrast between night and day, succulents thrive in colder nights, down to even 40ºF. Ideally, succulents prefer daytime temperatures between 70ºF and about 85ºF and nighttime temperatures between 50ºF and 55ºF Water: Succulents should be watered generously in the summer.

The potting mix should be allowed to dry between waterings, but do not underwater. During the winter, when the plants go dormant, cut watering back to once every other month. Overwatering and ensuing plant rot is the single most common cause of plant failure. Be aware, though, that an overwatered succulent might at first plump up and look very healthy. However, the cause of death may have already set in underground, with rot spreading upward from the root system. A succulent should never be allowed to sit in water.

These plants are easy to care for as well as maintain. Succulents are cool and worth adding to any gardener’s collection of special plants.

Visit us online at www.starnursery.com to locate a Star Nursery Garden Center near you.

Interested in adopting a Desert Tortoise? An Adoption Program exists for the residents of Nevada. Under the authority of the US Fish and Wildlife Service and Nevada Department of Wildlife, Tortoise Group has performed adoptions of the threatened Mojave desert tortoise (Gopherus agassizii) in Nevada for many years. The program ensures that the conditions for a tortoise are safe and offer a healthy environment. The new programs are limited to pet desert tortoises in Nevada.

Tortoise Group has care meetings, tortoise clinics, community events, adoption services, yard consultations and educational programs to benefit desert tortoises and their advocates. Please visit their website for more information regarding the programs offered.

Here are a few items you can find at Star Nursery that will be sure to make a desert tortoise happy: • Ivy Geranium • Gazania • Hall’s Honeysuckle • Grapes • Rose Bush • Hibiscus • Yellow Bells • Spineless Cactus • Globe Mallow The Tortoise Group is a non-profit educating and advocating for the protection and well-being of the desert tortoise since 1982. TortoiseGroup.org or 702.739.7113

LANDSCAPE ENVY Know of a landscape that turns heads? Gets people talking?

Enter or nominate that eye-catching landscape in the Southern Nevada Landscape Awards.

Online entry and nominations are free and easy.

Enter today at springspreserve.org or call (702) 258-SAVE.

Deadline to enter: May 1 The Springs Preserve and Southern Nevada Water Authority, in partnership with Star Nursery, recognize homeowners, businesses and professionals that create and maintain attractive, water-smart landscapes.

Spring

Irrigation

Tune-Up

The warmer days of spring traditionally bring gardeners out in droves, purchasing new plants to beautify their yards. Before you invest your time, labor and money on new plants, determine whether some of your garden budget should be spent to improve your irrigation system. Take a few hours on a beautiful spring day to perform an irrigation tune up. This investment will ensure that both your new and established plants will thrive while your water bills will remain reasonable.

Get the watering season off to a great start with the following tips: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

Check the Controller -Take a peek at the settings and replace the battery back-up.

Check for Obstructions - Remove dirt and debris from your sprinkler heads.

Check for Wear & Tear – Replace broken or worn nozzles, valves, pipes or other components Check the Valves – Inspect your valves to ensure they are working properly and there is no evidence of leakage Check for Surge – Open the valve slowly when restoring water to avoid system damage from a water pressure surge Check Water Pressure – Make sure the water pressure is within the suggested operating range. Ask your local Water District.

For more information visit our website. Reference StarNote #910 Irrigation System Tune Up- “Getting the most from you system”

Reference Star Note #910 for more information

Did you know Dr. Q does

House Calls?

• Need expert guidance in the garden...

• Questions about your irrigation system...

• Need help trouble-shooting issues with plant growth...

Don’t hesitate! Schedule a HOUSE CALL with Dr. Q. Call: (702)-771-STAR (7827) or E-mail: Dr.Q@starnursery.com

INTRODUCING THE HRC 400 CONTROLLER WITH THE B-HYVE PROTM APP.

SAVE WATER AND TIME ALL FROM THE CONVENIENCE OF YOUR BACK POCKET. Monitor, adjust and receive notifications for multiple sites from anywhere with the B-hyve ProTM app and HRC 400 smart Wi-Fi/Bluetooth controller. Now you can finally manage your landscape water usage the same way you manage everything else — from your phone.

BHYVE.HYDRORAIN.COM

INSTANT 50% OFF PURCHASE PRICE W/ SNWA COUPON

PART #

DESCRIPTION

HRC-400-WF-08

8-Station Indoor/Outdoor Controller with Wi-Fi

HRC-400-WF-16

16-Station Indoor/Outdoor Controller with Wi-Fi

SPRING COLOR

WHEEL

Color Your Garden and Pots with an Array of Beautiful Blooming Color Found Only at Star Nursery Garden Centers Your Garden’s Partner for Every Bloomin’ Thing!

Texas Mountain Laurel Sophora secundiflora

Get inspired. Visit one of our Beautiful Garden Centers for the Best in Selection, Price and Customer service.

RECYCLING

is SMART

Do your part and be rewarded! Bring in your empty black plant pots and receive IN-STORE CREDIT toward future garden purchases.

•FRIENDLY ECO Your Environment’s Our Priority How many casinos have you walked into where the carpet reeks of beer? Have you ever had trouble negotiating your way through a maze of tightly packed slot machines? Here at the South Point, our staff prides itself in keeping the place 5-star clean. Our floor layout is as spacious as the Montana plains. Whether you’re here to enjoy dinner at one of our 8 great restaurants, take in a headliner show or try your luck in the casino, you know someone is watching out for your environment.

Join THE CLUB today.

We accept the following sizes:

In-Store Credit

• 1 Gallon ...................................................................................5¢ per pot • 3 Gallon .................................................................................10¢ per pot • 5 Gallon .................................................................................20¢ per pot • 15 Gallon ...............................................................................50¢ per pot

Never Conserve On Your Fun SouthPointCasino.com

Don’t Forget Your PLANTING PARTNERS

• PAYDIRT • GOLD DUST •PLANT TONIC

Free Star Seminars 10 AM. & 2 PM. All Star Nursery Locations

r u o rk Y ar! a M end Cal

August 5 Cactus & Succulents Gardens

June 3 Getting the Most out of Your Irrigation System Jun 17 Controlling Garden Pests July 1 Keeping Your Cool in Summer July 15 Patio Gardens & Pottery July 29 Colorful Summer Plants

August 19 Soils & Amendments September 2 Fall Rose Gardening September 16 Fall Veggie & Herb Gardening Sept 30 Fall is for Planting Fruit & Shade Trees November 4 Colorful Plants November 18 Winterizing Your Landscape December 2 Christmas Tree Selection & Care December 16 Frost Protection December 30 Winter Rose Care & Pruning

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er v rE o f er n t r Pa s ’ n Your Garde • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

ng! i h T ’ n i m oo l yB

Pottery Flagstone Sprinklers Fruit Trees Drip Irrigation Decorative Rock Gardening Tools Seasonal Flowers Fertilizers & Soils Landscape Lighting Cactus & Succulents Trees, Shrubs & Vines Disease & Pest Control Flower & Vegetable Seeds Artificial Turf & Accessories Stepping Stones & Wallblock Seasonal Vegetables & Herbs & More...

m r y.co e s r Visit us on e @ www.starnu lin