The Kansas City
GARDENER Dahlias
A Monthly Guide to Successful Gardening
August 2019
bring late summer surprises
8/11 Reminder to Call Before You Dig Daylily, More Than Just a Pretty Face Golden Rain Tree: summer yellow burst Butterfly Garden as an Ecosystem
The Kansas City
editor’s notes
GARDENER A Monthly Guide to Successful Gardening
Independently owned and operated since 1996 Publisher Michael Cavanaugh Editor Elizabeth Cavanaugh Contributors Jim Earnest Nik and Theresa Hiremath Lenora Larson Dennis Patton Tamra Reall Chelsea Didde Rice Denise Sullivan Distribution Publishers Delivery Solutions, Inc.
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August 2019 | kcgmag.com
Garden journal entry
S
till basking in the spring delight of record rainfall, it has been hard to keep in mind that hose-hauling days were not far off. That days of relentless summer heat are inevitable and unavoidable. Like the bill that arrives after credit card purchases have been made, it was time to pay the piper. The longevity of spring rains has spoiled us. All those newly planted perennials in the landscape and containers filled with annuals are off to a good start. Now that summer heat has arrived, the plants will need consistent care in order to maintain that lush green growth and encourage healthy root systems. This is familiar territory for us. Oppressive heat and humidity is not uncommon here in the Midwest. Consequently, we have adopted good garden practices when it comes to watering. Since our irrigation system is the manual hose-dragging type, much of the work is done with sprinklers and hand watering. As per usual, Mr. Gardener and I agreed on a divideand-conquer strategy to watering this season. He chose the backyard, which left the front to me. Perfect! Combined with other garden chores, I really don’t mind water-
ing. It gives me more time in the garden to plan, to admire, to dream. Of course, the solitude of caring for plants one by one is something special indeed! Recently, while out in the front yard watering by hand the renovated perennial bed, Mr. Gardener shouts to me that he’s going to burn the pile of branches that have accumulated in the firepit out back. This particular action falls in the same category as climbing the ladder – adult supervision required. We have a safety rule – do not engage in these activities without the other person present. Someone needs to be able to call emergency services. So I make a mental note and continue on. Soon our nextdoor neighbor walks over and says to me, “Elizabeth, I hate to disturb you,” sensing my Zen-like state, “but you have a fire in your backyard.” Grateful for his observation, I gently reply, “Oh yeah, that’s my pyro-practicing husband burning branches in the firepit. Thanks for letting me know.”
Still, I’m not quite sure what grabbed the neighbor’s attention first, the 12-foot flames or the noticeable boom from the fireball explosion. YIKES! Yes friends, that’s what happens when an accelerant is applied. And you kids, don’t try this at home! Excuse me, Mr. Gardener, but don’t you have a fire safety merit badge? Or was it fire starting? Whatever happened to the teepee method you taught the kids? (This is all in good humor. He wasn’t really in danger, and neither were the neighbors.) Suffice to say all is well. You’ll be glad to know he still has his eyebrows. Unfortunately though, the containers filled with dragon wing begonias and creeping jenny are scorched. He did however come up with a simple solution. Just turn the singed side towards the patio wall. Bless his heart. I’ll see you in the garden!
In this issue August 2019 • Vol. 24 No. 8 Kids Ask Dr. Bug ..................... 4 Ask the Experts ........................ 6 American Goldfinch ................. 8 8/11 Call Before You Dig ........ 9 Daylily, More than Pretty Face ... 10 Golden Rain Tree .................... 11 Dahlias .................................. 12 Powell Gardens in August ........ 14
about the cover ...
Plants on Your Plate: Corn ........ 16 Butterfly Garden as an Ecosystem .......................... 17 Upcoming Events ..................... 18 Garden Calendar .................... 22 Hotlines .................................. 23 Subscribe ................................ 23 Meet a Master Gardener........... 23
Dahlias, like this ‘Crichton Honey’ variety are those great end-of-summer performers that will not disappoint. Learn more starting on page 12.
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The Kansas City Gardener | August 2019
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Kids Ask Dr. Bug What is the gold in Monarch chrysalises? Emmy, 9 Although the spots appear metallic, the special cells in Monarch chrysalises reflect light like metal and give the appearance of gold. We don’t know exactly why those spots exist. Ideas for why some butterfly pupae have metallic-looking spots include camouflage, warnings to other critters, “sunscreen” to protect the developing insect inside, or perhaps they are just a pretty consequence of the metamorphosis process. I was stung by a bee before. Are they poisonous? Emmanuel, 10 Ouch! Bee stings hurt, but that’s the point. Bees don’t sting because they are mean. Rather, they sting when either they, or their hive, are threatened whether on purpose or
accident. The venom from a bee sting isn’t poisonous, meaning if you swallowed it, it wouldn’t necessarily make you sick. But bee venom contains toxins that your body reacts to, usually feeling like a hot pin prick. Sometimes, people are allergic to the toxins and may need help from a doctor. Always be aware of the insect world when you’re outside – watch and appreciate their behaviors, and avoid getting stung! I watched the Bee Movie so I know all about what happens in a beehive. Boy bees do all the work, right? Jesse, 5 While it tells a fun story, compared to what really happens in a hive, almost everything in this movie is incorrect. In a real hive, there is one bee, the Queen, who lays all the eggs. Only a few boy
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bees are in a colony of bees and they are called drones. They do nothing to help in the hive – they don’t even feed themselves. Drones just hang around outside waiting for other bees to fly by. The worker bees are females and do all the work in the hive. The workers start out as nurse bees, helping other new bees get food and clean out their cells. Then they move on to become caretakers of the queen, honey-making bees, hive-building bees, and guard bees. Eventually, they may become field bees looking for pollen and nectar. The drones don’t get off too easily, though. In the fall, as the worker bees get ready for winter, they drag any remaining drones out of the hive. How many bugs are in our food? Damian, 15 Trigger warning: this may be one of those questions you wish you could “unread”. But since you asked … even using the best technology, it is impossible to keep all insects out of our food. In fact, there are legal standards for the amount of insects that can be in our food. Some examples include: ketchup can have 30 fruit fly eggs per 100 grams; peanut butter can
Photo by Tamra Reall.
Home to more than plants, kids ask DR. TAMRA REALL about the curious things found in the garden.
Monarch chrysalis have 50 insect fragments per six tablespoons; and, coffee can have up to 10% of beans infested. Some companies are intentionally selling food made from cricket flour, such as chips and chocolate chip cookies. They are delicious! Dr. Tamra Reall (@MUExtBugN Garden) is the new horticulture specialist for MU Extension in Jackson County. For free, research-based gardening tips, call 816-833-TREE (8733), email mggkc.hotline@gmail.com, or visit www.extension2.missouri.edu.
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The Kansas City Gardener | August 2019
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Ask the Experts Gardeners have plenty of questions about soil and plant issues, DENNIS PATTON answers a few of them here.
Greater Kansas City Iris Society Plant Sale Saturday, August 17 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Trailside Center 99th & Holmes, KCMO Bearded iris in a variety of classes will be available for sale: TB, BB, IB, SDB, MTB Come early for best selection as last year was a sell out!
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An example of EAB damage.
It seems rhubarb is fussy about Midwest soils.
must be removed and replaced. Unfortunately, many people let the dead trees stand. They become a hazard as the dead limbs break in a storm, falling on streets and walks. Removal and replacement is costly,
and many families don’t have the resources. Some area cities have programs to help citizens with this problem. If you have a dying ash, contact your city to see if they can help get these trees removed before someone or something gets hurt. OH RHUBARB, WHY ARE YOU SO DIFFICULT TO GROW Question: I am attempting to grow rhubarb with little success. What is the secret to growing this plant in the vegetable garden? Answer: Rhubarb is a little fussy in our soils. The plant requires extremely well-drained, even-moisture soils. Once you figure out that combination, the plant is easy. Our clay soils do not drain rapidly during rainy spells. The result is a crown rot that weakens or kills the plant. Rhubarb is
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EMERALD ASH BORER TAKING A TOLL Question: What’s wrong with the ash trees in the area? They look awful with lots of dead branches at the top and green growth in the middle. Answer: The tongue-in-cheek part of my personality wants to ask you, “What rock have you been living under?” However, I realize that is rude. Now with that said, here is the problem with the trees – Emerald ash borer (EAB). EAB is an invasive exotic insect moving across the country since 2002 and discovered in the KC area in 2012. This boring insect kills ash trees from the top down. Treelined streets throughout KC are now fully engulfed in the dieback caused by the EAB. At this point, none of these infected trees can be saved. They
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best grown in a raised bed or on a mound of soil improved with organic matter such as compost. Unfortunately, raised beds or mounds dry out rapidly which is hard on rhubarb. In drought conditions, it will decline and go dormant, which weakens the plant and future yields. Keep in mind after the spring harvest the plant needs lots of green foliage to make stored energy for next year. A little extra fertilizer will not hurt either. GRASS SEED HEADS Question: My grass tends to be thin in a few areas. This spring, I noticed a number of seed heads developing. Should I let the grass go to seed to help fill in the spots? Answer: All plants flower, some more than others. Tall fescue and bluegrass is no exception.
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While in theory allowing seeds to mature on the grass seems like a smart idea, in practice, it does not work. While the plants may produce some viable seed, the likelihood of that seed germinating and establishing is low. When a grass plant is allowed to produce seed, it uses a lot of energy. The result is a thinning of the stand that takes time to recover. Letting the lawn seed out will produce a thinned, stressed turf. The best bet is to keep mowing and overseed with purchased seed at the ideal time and with proper soil preparation. The best time to overseed a lawn is in early September. HOLLYHOCKS LIKELY LEAF DISEASE Question: I enjoy growing hollyhocks. The seed came from my grandmother. But each year the foliage develops small orange dots. The leaves become ugly, shrivel up, and die. What is causing this and what should I do? Answer: I don’t think there is a more interesting and beautiful plant than a hollyhock in full flower. It is simply charming. While the flower stock puts on a show, the clump around the base of the foliage suc-
up the mound of foliage growing at the base of the hollyhock. Once the plant finishes blooming, cut back all the brown growth to tidy up the plant. If the plant survives, then new clean growth will emerge. Hollyhocks are shortlived plants and usually self-seed in the garden.
Hollyhock in full flower. cumbs to a leaf disease called rust. Rust spores infect the leaves during spring rains. The result is an ugly base for the plant. Control of rust is difficult as the spores attack over a long period of time requiring multiple and timely fungicide applications. The best answer is just to let nature runs its course. Removing infected leaves to reduce spore development may help, but more spores will blow in. Try planting hollyhocks at the back of the bed and let shorter plants hide or cover
PRO-CHEMICAL VS ORGANIC OPTIONS Question: I have a bone to pick with you. It seems that you and Extension are pro-chemical and do not support organic options. What gives with you? Why are you not a fan of organic options which are better for the environment? Answer: That is a fair question. However, I must challenge your assertion that I am pro-chemical. Here is how I would explain my stance and the Extension philosophy. The best course of action is no treatment either in the form of chemical or organic. Keep in mind organic products are still chemical compounds. The difference is they are derived from natural sources, not created in a lab. Whether organic or chemical if they are a pesticide, they kill. In the case of insecticides,
both chemical and organic products have adverse effects on beneficial insects. Neither product can selectively remove only the bad guys without harming the good guys. The first course of action before applying anything should follow the concept of planting the right plant in the right place, as well as observing proper cultural practices. If that fails, then assess the situation. Most pest problems do not warrant intervention. By that I mean the disease or insect will not cause long term harm, and with proper care, the plant will make a full recovery. Lastly, if these options fail, then the Extension and my recommendation is to use the best product for the job, whether that be organic or chemical. Thanks for calling me out and giving me a chance to state our views. I think maybe in sound bites of information the true Extension philosophy gets lost. Dennis Patton is the horticulture agent for Johnson County K-State Research and Extension. For free information fact sheets, visit www.johnson.ksu.edu, or call the Extension office at 913-715-7000.
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American Goldfinch Local birding expert, THERESA HIREMATH talks about elements to consider when establishing a feeding station.
D
o you have American Goldfinches in your backyard? The brilliant yellow color of the male is unmistakable! Their habits of feeding in groups and hanging around at feeders for an extended period of time make them one of the easiest birds to spot. In addition to the male’s eyecatching yellow plumage, they have a cap and wings that are deep black with white wingbars. Their conical bill is great for eating seeds, and they have a pointed and notched tail. American Goldfinches have an interesting flight call consisting of four syllables that can be likened to “po-ta-to-chip.” Goldfinches can be found across the country, and are year-round residents in our area. They roam in small flocks from food source to food source during the winter,
sometimes traveling as much as four miles a day! One of the rare birds that is almost exclusively granivorous, their favorite foods are nyjer and sunflower seeds. Attract these beauties to your backyard with hopper, platform, tube, or mesh feeders filled with their favorites. Goldfinches are fairly insistent that nyjer, in particular, is fresh and dry, so keep your feeders full of fresh, dry seed. Female American Goldfinches are dominant over males in the summer and appear to be subservient to them in the winter. See if you can tell a difference at your feeders from season to season! American Goldfinches are dominated at feeders by Pine Siskin and House Finch during the winter and play second fiddle to them at feeders.
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Adult male American Goldfinch Unlike many birds, goldfinches molt their body feathers twice a year: in the spring before breeding and after nesting in the fall. Their vibrant yellow plumage is one of the many signs indicating that spring is near. The spring molt is a full molt of all their feathers and requires a large amount of nutrients and energy. During their fall feather molting, American Goldfinches grow a new set of feathers that are much duller than their summer plumage, but it is also much more dense. These dense soft feathers provide an additional layer of insulation to help keep them warm throughout the winter. The color of the legs, feet and bill of the American Goldfinch change with each feather molt. In winter time, their legs, feet and bill are dark grayish brown, whereas other times of the year they are a buffy yellow-orange color. Isn’t that cool?! American Goldfinches nest later in summer, when thistle seeds
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and down are readily available, and they prefer to nest in habitats with short evergreen trees, saplings and shrubs. They often place their nest near a water source, and will sometimes nest in a loose colony. American Goldfinches can weave their nest so tightly that it will temporarily hold water! The female American Goldfinch chooses the nest site, builds the nest and incubates the eggs all on her own. Once the nest is built, she attaches her nest to supporting twigs with spider web, and makes a downy lining using the tufts of seed heads. A typical brood consists of five pale-blue or greenishblue eggs that hatch in about 12 days. The male feeds the female on the nest throughout incubation and takes on an ever-increasing role in feeding the nestlings as they grow older. Nestlings fledge about 12 days after hatching, and are dependent on their parents for at least three weeks after fledging. Be sure to watch and listen for their energetic begging as they harass their parents for food at your feeders. Try your hand at attracting these bright beauties to your backyard. Our experts are ready to help you with your Goldfinch enjoyment needs.
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Aug. 11 (8/11) serves as convenient reminder for Kansas & Missouri residents to
ALWAYS CALL 811 BEFORE DIGGING
K
ansas 811 & Missouri One Call encourage people to make a free call 2 full working days before digging to know what’s below With Aug. 11 almost here, Kansas 811 & Missouri One Call hope this date on the calendar, 8/11, will serve as a natural
reminder for residents to call 811 prior to any digging project to have underground utility lines marked. Every hour, more than six damages to buried utilities occur because someone decided to dig without first calling 811. When calling 811, homeowners and contractors are connected to the local one call center for Kansas or Missouri, which notifies the appropriate utility companies of their intent to dig. Professional locators are then sent to the requested digging site to mark the approximate
locations of underground lines with flags, spray paint or both. Striking a single line can cause injury, repair costs, fines and inconvenient outages. Every digging project, no matter how large or small, warrants a call to 811. Installing a mailbox, building a deck, planting a tree and laying a patio are all examples of digging projects that need a call to 811 before starting. “On Aug. 11 and throughout the year, we remind homeowners and professional contractors alike to call 811 before digging to eliminate the risk of striking an underground utility line,” said Max Pendergrass, Public Relations Coordinator for Kansas 811, “It really is the only way to know which utilities are buried in your area.” The depth of utility lines can vary for a number of reasons, such as erosion, previous digging projects and uneven surfaces. Utility lines need to be properly marked because even when digging only a few inches, the risk of striking an underground utility line still exists. Visit www.call811.com, www. kansas811.com in Kansas or www. mo1call.com in Missouri for more information about 811 and safe digging practices.
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The Kansas City Gardener | August 2019
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W
hile Daylily lovers typically fall in love with a bloom’s pretty face, it is wise to add daylilies to your garden that will perform well year after year in our ever-changing weather conditions. A good way to find a great Daylily performer is by referring to the American Daylily Society (ADS) Popularity Poll for your region. We are in Region 11, which includes Kansas, Missouri and Oklahoma. As a service to its members and to the general public, each year the American Daylily Society (ADS) conducts a popularity poll among its over 6,000 members to determine the favorite daylilies from each region. The top five vote getters for each region are listed as the winners. One of the best ways to add great performing daylilies to your garden is by purchasing plants from local daylily club sales. The
‘Carnival In Mexico’
‘Webster’s Pink Wonder’
‘Beautiful Edgings’
‘Ruby Spider’
‘Rocket Blast’
Often times the regional popularity poll winners are also Stout Silver Medal Award winners. To win this prestigious award, the cultivar must get high scores from garden judges who see it growing in every region of the U.S. Also, the daylily must be a solid performer year after year. The ADS website, www.daylilies.org, has all the 88,000 plus Registered Daylily cultivars statistics available.
‘Beautiful Edgings’ Registered as fragrant and reblooms, BE is also a budbuilder (new buds are formed as the branches grow longer) providing an extended bloom season. It is cream with a rose ruffled edge and a green throat.
MoKan Daylily Society Club holds an annual public sale of daylilies from their gardens. The sale date is August 17, held at Loose Park Garden Center, 51st and Wornall Rd., Kansas City, Mo., 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. (or until sold out).
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Photos by Martha Anderson.
More than Just a Pretty Face! The Regional Daylily Popularity Poll
Past and Present Popularity Poll Daylily Winners For Sale August 17: ‘Carnival In Mexico’ A show stopper in the garden. Pale veined rose with very large deep red eye above green throat. Height is 30 inches tall with a 7-inch bloom. It has multiple awards including the 2012 Stout Silver Medal award. ‘Webster’s Pink Wonder’ And a wonder it is! The bloom is huge! It is 32 inches tall with a 13-inch pink bloom with a green throat. It also multiplies rapidly in the garden. It was a 2014 Stout Silver Award winner. ‘Primal Scream’ A club favorite for several years and one of the most sought after daylilies across the country. It has the “Wow” factor! It is orange tangerine with a green throat. It was a 2003 Stout Silver Medal winner.
‘Primal Scream’
‘Ruby Spider’ One look and it’s easy to see why this incredible daylily is a multiple award winner! It has gigantic 9”, dark ruby red, open and flat, starry blossoms with attractive golden throats atop a mound of arching leaves. Irresistible! ‘Rocket Blast’ An extremely bright hot red flower with deeper eye above green throat. Looks like it is on fire! This cultivar catches everyone’s eye and is an award winner. Other Popularity Poll winners for sale in limited quantity are: ‘Holiday Party’, ‘Cherokee Pass’, ‘A Green Desire’, ‘Kansas Kitten’, ‘Strawberry Candy’, and ‘Heavenly Angel Ice’. Daylilies provide the diversity in height, form, color and habit that no other perennial offers our local gardeners, collectors and landscapers. They tend to be disease and pest resistant, and are easy to grow. If you are looking for a daylily with both a pretty face and is tried and true, shop the MoKan Daylily Society Sale on August 17!
Golden Rain Tree: summer yellow burst
A
beautiful time in Kansas City comes when our flowering redbud, crabapple and dogwood trees begin to bloom, showing us their stuff over several weeks in early spring. When summer arrives and many of our trees have finished their show, along comes the traffic-stopping golden rain tree (Koelreuteria paniculata), also known as ‘Pride of India’ or ‘China Tree’. A native of China, Japan and Korea, it was introduced to North America in the 1700s, and according to the USDA can now be found in every county in Missouri and Kansas. The genus name Koelreuteria commemorates the 18th century German natural history professor Josef Gottlieb Koelreuter. Paniculata refers to the inflorescence of beautiful yellow flowers covering the tree.
The golden rain tree is one of the very few yellow flowering trees and is virtually unrivaled in its beauty. The small center of each yellow flower is a brilliant red color and four tiny yellow petals surround it. Very showy, these ½ inch flowers are perfect (both male and female parts in the same flower), and are borne on 12 to 18-inch long panicles covering the tree in late June and early July. Bees and other pollinators love the rain tree flowers. Each flower develops into a threesided papery straw-colored capsule resembling a Chinese lantern containing three hard black seeds. The hanging capsules are initially green, and then turn dark pink or brown as fall approaches. The feathery compound leaves of the rain tree are up to 18 inches long, dark green with 7-15 coarsely serrated leaflets that
Photos by Jim Earnest.
Enthusiastic about all trees, JIM EARNEST discusses the Golden Rain Tree, its history and features.
are also of interest. The tree grows to 30-40 feet with a similar spread. The falling blossoms are abundant and remind one of ‘golden rain’, and form a pretty yellow carpet of flowers beneath the tree. Asians have used the flowers as eyewash for conjunctivitis. The seeds are edible only when roast-
ed, but only eaten during periods of famine (not tasty). The Chinese used the decorative seeds to make necklaces. The golden rain tree is tough, tolerating heat, drought, and automobile exhaust. Few pests bother it. You can see them at Black Bob Park in Olathe, just north of the parking lot at the wonderful Linda Hall Library Arboretum, and two of these beauties about 150 yards west of Leawood City Hall. You can hardly miss a golden rain tree in bloom, making it easy to understand why it is a popular ornamental and street tree throughout the world. Jim Earnest, Education Committee, Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens and Member, Kansas Native Plant Society.
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MARIA’S FAMOUS BELGIAN MUMS ARE BACK!
10 huge Mums on sale for $79.89 It’s time for lawn renovation and aeration
The Kansas City Gardener | August 2019
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Dahlias bring late summer surprises
CHELSEA DIDDE RICE shares how dahlias give a burst of new energy to finish the summer in stunning fashion.
Favorite Varieties Depending on your end goal, there are varied dahlias best suited for the job. If you’re looking for a landscape plant to add a splash of color to your flower beds, look for dahlias bred for that purpose. If you adore having fresh flowers in your home during the late summer and fall, turn to varieties suited for cutting. For example, it’s almost impossible to discuss cut flower dahlias without mentioning the queen of them all (at least in my mind), ‘Café Au Lait’. Sought after by floral designers and summer brides alike, this variety pushes out massive eight- to ten-inch blooms that range in color from blush pink to light beige to creme to lavender, all on the same plant. While it seems unclear as to what causes the change in bloom color, my best guess is that it’s the air or soil temperature or the age of the plant, as I typically have different colored Cafe Au Lait blooms in late July than I do in late September. One thing I do know is that this enchanting flower has taken my breath away many an August evening when walking around the garden to see what blooms opened the previous night and while I’m at work. ‘Crichton Honey’, my second favorite cutting dahlia, has a some12
August 2019 | kcgmag.com
what indescribable color. It’s somewhere in between peachy pink and cantaloupe, if I had to name it. It’s a popular older variety, introduced in 1976, and only grows to about three feet tall while producing ball shaped flowers around four inches in diameter. This one looks right at home next to sunflowers and mums
variety called ‘Orange Nugget’. This perky bedding plant grows about 20-28 inches tall and forms a well-behaved and strongly supported bush that’s a perfect middle player in the garden bed when tucked between low growing annuals and taller background plants. It’s the earliest dahlia to bloom in Photo by Marty Thoennes.
W
hen summer blooming flowers start to wane and look less than their best, dahlias burst onto the scene with frilly blooms in a variety of shapes, sizes and colors. They have been growing deep green foliage for weeks, storing up energy to put on a show in our flower beds and cutting gardens!
Cafe Au Lait in a fall-themed arrangement on a kitchen table or counter. Outside of the garden, I love the color red. However, working with red blooms in landscaping or arrangements can often present a challenge since they “steal the show” and sometimes don’t blend well with other colors. A variety introduced in 1982, named ‘Cornel’, is the exception. I plant it yearly so I can enjoy the blooms in the landscape as well as tuck them into fall bouquets. Like Crichton Honey, they are ball shaped and similarly sized, but these have a velvety dark pomegranate hue. At the top of my list for landscaping is an adorable dwarf dahlia
my garden, often showing color in late June, several weeks before other varieties. I cut back the spent flowers to keep it looking tidy and with some occasional fertilizer supplementation, it’ll keep the orange blooms popping all the way up to our first frost. Care Tips Dahlias love the hot, sunny days of summer, so wait to plant tubers until the soil has warmed to at least 60 degrees. Typically, this is about two weeks after our last spring frost. Dig a hole about four to five inches deep, add in slowrelease fertilizer and lay the tubers in the hole horizontally. Cover with
soil and do not water until you see green growth poking through the soil, since tubers are prone to rotting if overwatered before they’re actively growing. Once you see green leaves emerging, water the plant deeply two or three times a week to encourage deep roots. When the plant is about a foot tall, pinch out a few inches of the center stalk to encourage basal branching and an increased flower count, then provide support if it’s a tall variety with heavy blooms that might topple over. Purchasing Tubers Occasionally I’ll get questions from readers about where to find the plants I write about. My first stop (or phone call) is always my local garden center. If my usual home-away-from-home garden center (you know who you are) doesn’t carry what I am looking for, I will call my second and third favorite local nurseries before turning to my laptop. Dahlias are one thing that I typically end up purchasing online for several reasons. First, I tend to be picky about varieties because I plan my garden during the winter months and like to guarantee that I’ll have access to a particular plant. Second, I preorder dahlias in late fall, when the garden centers are brimming with mums, pansies and pumpkins – not dahlia tubers. Finally, many online retailers specialize in dahlias and are simply the experts when it comes to care tips, variety descriptions and troubleshooting. When purchasing dahlias online, I’ve used several websites but have received especially healthy and vigorous tubers from Swan Island Dahlias, Eden Brothers and Holland Bulb Farms.
Never fear, though! If you are inspired to add dahlias to your garden later in the season, many garden centers sell potted plants already thriving and often ahead of the natural bloom schedule because they are raised in warm greenhouses. I’ve seen plants sold anytime between May and September, depending on the retailer.
When Chelsea Didde Rice isn’t at work as a senior communications specialist, she’s an avid gardener who enjoys teaching people how easy it can be to garden.
Tubers
Photo courtesy of Uprising Seeds.
Winter Storage Finally, it is worth mentioning that dahlias are not winter hardy in most areas, including Kansas City. You can either treat them as annuals and let them die over the winter, or dig up the tubers after the first hard frost in the fall. If choosing the latter, you’ll end up with multiple tubers like the one you planted
in the spring, since dahlia tubers multiply over the season. After the first frost, clip the dead foliage to the ground and gently dig up the tubers. Remove excess soil from the tubers and store in a cardboard box filled with vermiculite over the winter in a dark room that is between 40 and 50 degrees. Then replant in the spring! Dahlias are easy-to-grow plants that can be used for both landscape planting and cut flowers, and are sure to brighten your late summer and early fall garden.
Orange Nugget Photo courtesy of Arrowhead Dahlias.
Crichton Honey
Cornel
Cafe Au Lait The Kansas City Gardener | August 2019
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August Happenings at Powell Gardens cies into the conservatory. Each talk will last approximately 15 minutes and discuss several of the species on view and the process by which we rear and care for the butterflies.
Festival of Butterflies July 26 thru August 11 | 9 a.m.-6 p.m. daily |Festival Admission & Parking Applies Flit and flutter out to Powell Gardens for this annual event focused on a favorite pollinator! Enjoy hands-on activities, interact with expert community partners, and walk among the winged beauties in the tropical conservatory display and Native Butterfly Habitat. Members are Free! Daily offers during the Festival of Butterflies: Two FREE familyfriendly drop-in hands-on activities; and Access to view the Minteer Collection Butterfly Display during regular festival hours in the multipurpose room.
Butterfly Fashion Parade | 1:00 p.m. each day Kids! Gather in the Grand Hall, grab some butterfly wings and other musician accessories and follow us out to the native butterfly habitat for a marching parade with a giant caterpillar. Native Butterfly Show and Tell | 1:30 p.m. each day Join Powell Gardens horticulturist Eric Perette for a familyfriendly show and tell experience to learn about native species in our native butterfly habitat. This is a hands-on experience to also seek and find live caterpillars among the host plants in the display. For those interested, a short butterfly hunt in the garden with butterfly
Friday, Saturday, Sunday during the Festival of Butterflies: Conservatory Butterfly Release and Short Talk | 11:00 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. each day Meet a Powell Gardens butterfly expert to release newly emerged spe-
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August 2019 | kcgmag.com
nets follows the show and tell in the habitat. Resource Center The multi-purpose room space will be activated by various likeminded groups interested in promoting native butterfly habitats and conservation. Drop in all day! Visit: https://powellgardens.org/ homepage/events-programs-exhibitions/powell-gardens-festivals/ festival-of-butterflies/ Natural Exposure: Photographs by Wendy Delzeit, Stephanie Ehrhardt, Angie Harris, and Lisa Healey July 26 thru September 8 daily | Free with Garden Admission This special exhibition features four professional artists from the greater Kansas City area whose work depicts aspects of the landscape and garden through the medium of photography. Using a macro lens, Wendy Delzeit shows us a close up look at the world of flowers and insects. Stephanie Ehrhardt’s botanical prints feature scenes from Powell Gardens and a close-up look at particular specimen in the garden. Angie Harris is drawn to photographing ordinary things that most people overlook in the landscape and in nature. Lisa Healey feels a strong reverence for nature and examines the world of a flower from a few inches away. These photographs bring the out-
doors indoors and may inspire us to examine aspects of nature more closely in person. Native Butterfly Habitats: The Heart and Soul of Your Garden Sunday, August 4, 2 p.m. | Free with Festival Admission Join docent Betty Boyd in the Grand Hall of the Visitor Center for a walk through the Native Butterfly Habitat in the Heartland Harvest Garden. Learn about the life cycle of butterflies and what is needed to create a successful habitat for supporting varied phases of the butterfly life cycle. Photographer’s-Only Butterfly Access Thursday, August 8, 6-8 p.m. | $10 per person (does not include festival admission or parking) Join us for the golden hour just as the sun begins to set and photograph butterflies in the gardens and our Native Butterfly Habitat. Bring your tripods or monopods to capture the perfect shot of tropical butterfly species in the Martha Jane Philips Starr Butterfly Conservatory. A cash bar will be available. Ticket holders arriving prior to the 6:00 p.m. start time should check in at the front desk to obtain a bracelet to indicate their after-hours access. Visit: https://25043p.blackbaudhosting. com/25043p/Photographers-OnlyButterfly-Access
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August Planting Dates Plant Above-Ground Crops: 5-8, 12, 13 • Plant Root Crops: 16-18, 22 Transplant: 12, 13 • Plant Flowers: 5-8 • Control Plant Pests: 24, 25, 28-30
Species Spotlight: Perfect Pollinators Saturday, August 10, 10:30-11:30 a.m. | Free with Festival Admission Join a Powell Gardens docent on a hunt for Powell Gardens’ perfect pollinators. This family-friendly, features a short stroll through our gardens and Native Butterfly Habitat in search of winged wonders. Families will play a pollinator game and get up close with hungry caterpillars. This experience is suited for families with children aged five to twelve. Come prepared with sunscreen. Space is limited, so please register online in advance. Visit: https://powellgardens.org/ program-tour-signup/ Butterfly Tour in the Field Sunday, August 11, 10:00-11:30 a.m. | $15 per person (does not include festival admission or parking) Join botanist Brett Budach for a field experience geared for adults to locate and identify native caterpillar and butterfly species in the wild. Please dress for the weather, bring a sun hat and sunscreen, wear sturdy shoes, and bring water for this walking tour. Visit: https://25043p. blackbaudhosting.com/25043p/ Butterfly-Tour-in-the-Fields Victoria Secret: Lily on the Water Thursday, August 15, 7:30-10 p.m. | $45 (Members receive 10% off) Ticket includes two cocktails and hearty snacks This special educational evening is all about the enchanting Victoria water lily that hails from the Amazon. Learn all about its history and about water lilies featured at Powell Gardens. Join Dr. Chad Miller, Associate Professor of Landscape Horticulture, Kansas State University for a short illustrated talk about Victoria amazonica (the largest of the Nymphaeacea family of water lilies) and then experience the captivating nocturnal blooms in the Marlese Lowe Gourley Island Garden (depending on weather and plant development). Cocktails crafted by Boozy Botanicals, and hearty snacks will be provided. Visit: https://25043p. blackbaudhosting.com/25043p/ Victoria-Secret-Lily-on-the-Water Missouri Barn Beer Dinner with Chef Michael Foust hosted by Jill Silva (culinary specialist and food writer, owner of Jill Silva Food) Sunday, August 18, 5-9 p.m. | $75 (Members receive 10% off) Enjoy garden bounty and brews at the Missouri Barn with Chef Michael Foust of The Farmhouse
and Black Sheep + Market. Join Chef Foust, the featured chef-in-residence in our Farm-to-Table garden, for a welcome cocktail and a chat about the farm-to-table movement, then enjoy a three-course, familystyle meal using Powell Gardensgrown vegetables and local meats prepared over open flame. The meal will feature beer pairings pre-
sented by Michael Crane of Crane Brewing, a brewer-in-residence in our Fermentation Field. He will be joined by “gypsy brewer” Rodney Beagle who has brewed a Lemon Grisette, with fresh lemon balm harvested from the Fermentation Field and real lemon peel. It is light straw in color with a frothy white head. It will be fermented with a combina-
tion of both French and Belgian farmhouse yeast so the esters and phenol profile will be similar to that of a Saison. The strength of the beer will be close to 4% giving it a crisp, tart, light, refreshing and slightly lemony flavor. Visit: https://25043p. blackbaudhosting.com/25043p/ Missouri-Barn-Dinner-with-ChefMichael-Foust
Take the guesswork out of fertilizing By Dennis L. Patton, M.S., County Horticulture Agent, K-State Research and Extension/Johnson County
I’m often asked, “Why should I get a soil test?” The first key to lawn and garden success is knowing soil fertility. A soil test reveals the baseline nutritional values of your soil. A test can determine the type and amounts of fertilizer needed for optimal plant health. A good soil test also determines the pH level of the soil so corrections can be made. Soil fertility is something that cannot be seen, felt or guessed. It varies from one yard to the next. In many cases the test shows that too many nutrients have been applied and additional chemical elements such as phosphorous and potassium may be harmful. Phosphorous and potassium levels build up in KC soils. Excess can harm growth, or worse, leach out and pollute streams and lakes. Many garden resources recommend a balanced fertilizer such as 10-10-10 or 5-10-5. Long term use of these products can lead to chemical buildup. Soil testing takes the guesswork out of fertilizing. A common misbelief is that our local soils need lime. Lime raises the pH, and most KC soils already have high levels. A simple soil test will
determine soil pH. You’ll then learn the correct treatment options, saving you money. Extension recommends a soil test every three to five years. All local extension offices provide soil testing services. Soil samples brought or mailed to the Johnson County Extension office are sent to the Soil Testing Laboratory at Kansas State University in Manhattan. I analyze the lab results and write a personalized recommendation. Your report is usually mailed to you in two to three weeks. August is an excellent time to test the soil, especially if you are planning on a late summer lawn renovation. Save yourself time and money by getting your soil tested today.
It all starts with a soil test! If you crave that spring green, fertilize this September. • September fertilization is critical to your lawn’s health • Applying just the right kind and amount of fertilizer saves you money and protects our water quality
Start your lawn off right! Johnson County Residents, get one FREE soil test. Learn more at
johnson.k-state.edu or call 913.715.7000
• JoCo Residents: Get one free soil test and a personalized recommendation for your lawn Funding provided by the Johnson County Stormwater Management Program. Limit one per Johnson County household.
Johnson County
In p a r t n e r sh i p to ge t h e r The Kansas City Gardener | August 2019
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Plants on Your Plate: Corn DENISE SULLIVAN talks about nutritious food and preparing healthy meals, including sweet corn, a summer staple.
S
weet corn is one of the most popular summer vegetable crops to grow on both sides of the state line. Whether cooked in a pot of boiling water or grilled alongside the burgers, corn on the cob is often considered a staple item in the all-American summer barbeque. While corn can’t claim ‘superfood’ status the way that kale does, sweet corn contributes vitamin C and many B vitamins, including folate, as well as magnesium and potassium. Folate is important for women of childbearing age to reduce the risk of neural tube disorders, while potassium helps maintain healthy blood pressure and magnesium helps to build and maintain strong bones. Sweet corn is also a rich source of both soluble and insoluble fiber, which aids in controlling cholesterol as well as digestive health and bowel regular-
ity. The fiber also acts as a prebiotic, feeding and fueling the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. Yellow corn also contains the phytochemicals lutein and zeaxanthin, which protect vision and guards against cataracts and macular degeneration. A common misconception regarding sweet corn, is that most of it is genetically modified. Though there is GMO sweet corn seed available, it makes up only about 10% of the sweet corn in the marketplace nationwide. There are numerous hybrid varieties of sweet corn with varying degrees of sweetness and keeping quality. Much of the field corn grown in the US is genetically modified and is primarily used for bio-fuel, animal feed, or processed into food products like corn oil, cereal, cornstarch or high fructose corn syrup. If you wish to avoid GMO products,
choose organic, as the USDA does not permit genetic engineering in USDA certified organic products. It is worth mentioning that there are only 10 GMO crops approved in the US: alfalfa, apples, canola, corn, cotton, papaya, potatoes, soybeans, squash and sugar beets. There is often confusion regarding where corn belongs in the MyPlate food guide. Sweet corn, like our beloved corn on the cob, belongs in the vegetable group. Dent corn, a high starch variety of field corn commonly ground into corn meal, belongs in the grain group. In its whole grain form, dent corn–and even popcorn–is composed of the outer bran layer (that contains fiber), the inner nutrient rich germ (that can sprout and grow a new plant) and the starchy endosperm, that makes up the bulk of the cornmeal or corn flour. When corn
goes through the milling process to remove the bran and germ, it becomes a refined grain. Growing up on the farm, I can remember trying to pick field corn early enough to eat it on the cob, but trust me, it’s just not the same! While you are enjoying your next round of sweet corn, grill some extra to use in this tasty salad (recipe posted on KCGMAG.com) that makes for a perfect light, yet filling summer main dish. It’s a tasty dinner that will add more plants to your plate! Denise Sullivan (@MUExtJackson Co) is a Nutrition and Health Education Specialist for MU Extension in Jackson County. For research-based nutrition and food safety information and programs, call 816-482-5850 or visit www. extension2.missouri.edu.
FALL FLING
Through the Looking Glass September 21-October 20 10 a.m.-4 p.m. (daily) Follow Alice down the rabbit hole and into a magical world where things are not always as they seem! Enjoy an artistic display of nearly 800 pumpkins and other fall botanical favorites, arranged to tell the story of Alice and her topsy-turvy trip into Wonderland.
Come Shop in Paradise…
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city with the crowded parking lots, busy streets and honking horns to the peaceful tranquil atmosphere of Swan’s Water Gardens. You’ll enjoy strolling through our lushly landscaped water gardens as you make your way to the market center where you’ll find our courteous staff waiting to assist you with all your questions and water garden needs. We always carry a large inventory of aquatic plants: tropical and hardy lilies, marginal plants and everyone’s favorite—the lotus. For the DIYers, we carry the same professional quality pond supplies that we use in building water gardens for our customers, pumps, liners, filtration systems, and more. Come and visit us in the Gardens! “Creating Paradise … in your Backyard”
powellgardens.org/fall
www.swanswatergardens.com
913-837-3510
4385 W 247th St. Louisburg, KS Hours: Tues-Fri 9am-5pm * Sat 9am-4pm
We back our Water Garden installations with a 5 year leak free guarantee!
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August 2019 | kcgmag.com
Butterfly Garden as an Ecosystem LENORA LARSON talks about developing a garden that contains plants with purpose and embrace the critters.
Ecosystem Elements An ecosystem consists of interacting animals and their physical environment. The environment must provide shelter, food and water, and protection from predators and pesticides. It’s so interconnected that it can easily be disrupted or destroyed, especially by humans who are that dangerous combination of ignorance and power. The loss of just one plant (like Milkweed, food for the Monarch caterpillars and nectar for many pollinators) or one insect (like Syrphid Flies, pollinators and food for many birds) can initiate a devastating chain reaction of unintended negative consequences for the entire community, including humans. Mutual Dependence Many forward-thinking gardeners look for plants with a purpose, i.e., they are not just pretty, they also support the community as food and/or shelter. Some gardeners may be distressed by insects eating their plants, but if your plants are perfect, then your garden is not part of an ecosystem. Don’t panic and spray poisons, just hang on and wait for the posse to arrive! Those bugs that are eating your plants are on some bird’s or other insects’ menu. And flowering plants (80% of terrestrial plants) need insects to act as sexual ambassadors as they carry the male pollen from one flower to the female eggs of another flower. Without insects,
Photos by Lenora Larson.
W
e butterfly gardeners think of our special place as a garden, maintained with designing, planting and weeding. However, we are also creating an ecosystem and if you plant for butterflies, you are also planting for birds, bees, flower flies, wasps, spiders, amphibians, snakes and small mammals. These animals share similar needs and hence share the same community whether it’s in a prairie or your yard. For many of us, this abundance of wildlife is another joyful reason to plant a butterfly garden.
Welcome Argiope, the Garden Spider. She eats insects, even Grasshoppers!
Bees like this Bumble Bee are integral members of your butterfly garden ecosystem.
Celebrate a Pipevine Swallowtail caterpillar’s eating big holes in your pipevines!
there would be no fruits or seeds or nuts! Did you know that a flower’s beauty, fragrance and nectar are solely for the purpose of attracting insects?
the many creatures up close. Get to know them. Watch caterpillars methodically munching and the praying mantis patiently hunting. Watch the diligence of the ants, the slither of smiling snakes. Did you know that honey bees have red tongues and lap nectar like a kittycat? A garden devoid of critters is sterile; you might as well plant plastic flowers. Your garden will
bring you even greater joy if you embrace it as an ecosystem.
Bees, Peaceful Indicators of a Healthy Ecosystem Recently many schools pulled back from installing Butterfly or Pollinator gardens once the parents realized that bees are the primary denizens of these ecosystems. However, nectaring bees do not sting unless YOU distress them. They are totally focused on gathering pollen and nectar to feed their children. However, your fear pheromones can alarm them and if you scream, wave your arms, etc., they may defend themselves. Honey bees (non-native) and bumble bees are our only social bees and they will sting if you threaten their nest, which contains their mother, their sisters and their children. I would sting you too if you threatened my family. We also have over 400 species of solitary native bees in the Kansas City area that never sting unless you accidentally grab one. Put this in perspective: many people are bitten by their pets but no one suggests poisoning all cats or dogs. Occasionally someone is stung by a bee, so many people want to poison them all, despite the good they do. Welcoming All Members of the Community Ignorance causes this fear and/ or loathing. My suggestion: sit among your flowers and watch
Marais des Cygnes Extension Master Gardener, Idalia Butterfly Society and Kansas Native Plant Society member, Lenora Larson gardens and hosts butterflies in the cruel winds and clay soil of Paola, Kansas. She may be contacted at lenora.longlips@gmail.com.
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The Kansas City Gardener | August 2019
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Upcoming Garden Events places to go, things to do, people to see
Club Meetings Bonner Springs Garden Club Tues, Aug 20, at 9:30am carpoolers will meet at the SE corner of Third & Cedar in Bonner Springs, KS, then drive to Earl May Garden Center, 21700 Midland, Shawnee KS 66218 for a tour. Guests welcome. For further information contact bonnerspringsgardenclub@gmail.com.
One free, easy call gets your utility lines marked AND helps protect you from injury and expense. Safe Digging Is No Accident: “Always Call Before You Dig in Kansas” Call 811, 1-800-DIG-SAFE, (800-344-7233) or visit us at www.kansas811.com.
It’s Summertime!
Bonsai Society of GKC Sat, Aug 24, 10am-4pm; at Loose Park Garden Center, 52nd and Wornall Rd, Kansas City, MO. Workshop. www. bsgkc.org; 816-513-8590. Greater Kansas City Herb Study Group Wed, Aug 14, 11am-2pm; at at Loose Park Garden Center, 52nd and Wornall Rd, Kansas City, MO. Membership. Questions: call Lynn at 816-308-5450. Greater Kansas City Gardeners of America Mon, Aug 5, 6pm refreshments, 6:30pm meeting; at Loose Park Garden Center, 51st St and Wornall Rd, Kansas City, MO. Program: “Fountains of Kansas City”. Jocelyn Edson-Ball, now retired from many years of service with Kansas City Parks & Recreation Department, will share the interesting and rich history of the many wonderful fountains scattered about Kansas City’s landscape. Jocelyn is an avid gardener and an active member of The Greater Kansas City Gardeners of America. All are welcome to attend (no charge). Heart of America Gesneriad Society Sat, Aug 17, 10am-noon; at Loose Park Garden Center, 5200 Pennsylvania, Kansas City, MO. Membership. Visitors welcome.
Apply compost to reduce water consumption and increase nutrients in your soil. Ask your landscape contractor to spread Lawn Corps compost for your next project. Or visit us for the largest selection of Compost, Mulch Products and Soil Blends.
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www.lawncorps.com 18
August 2019 | kcgmag.com
KC Cactus and Succulent Society Sat, Aug 10 and Sun, Aug 11; at Loose Park Garden Center, 51st St and Wornall Rd, Kansas City, MO. The 41st Annual Show and Sale on Sat, 9am to 5pm (judged show opens to the public at 11am; sales open at 9am) and Sun, 11am4pm. Contact 816-444-9321 or evaal@ att.net for more info or see our ad on The Kansas City Gardener’s website: http:// kcgmag.com/. Kansas City Garden Club Mon, Aug 5, 9am-2pm; at Loose Park Garden Center, 51st St and Wornall Rd, Kansas City, MO. Membership. 816513-8590 Leavenworth County Master Gardeners Wed, Aug 14, 11am; at Riverfront Community Center, 123 Esplanade St, Leavenworth, KS 66048. Leavenworth County Master Gardeners, Mikey
Stafford, Jo Domann and Joyce Caratura will present “Herbs for the Everyday Gardener”. The program will cover how to grow, dry and use garden herbs. The meeting is free. Visitors are welcome. For more information contact Paula Darling at 913-240-4094. Lenexa Field and Garden Club Tues, Aug 13, 7pm; at the Lakeview Village (9000 Park Eastside Entrance) in Lenexa, KS. Master Gardener, Mae Christenson will present a program on “Gardening with Nature”, providing information on understanding the interconnectedness of our gardens ecosystem and the plants we are growing . Mid America Begonia Society Sat, Aug 17, 1-3pm; at Loose Park Garden Center, 5200 Pennsylvania, Kansas City, MO. Membership. Visitors welcome. Overland Park Gardeners of America Mon, Aug 12, 7pm social, meeting 7:30pm; at Colonial Church, 7039 Mission Rd, Prairie Village, KS. Sue Looney with KC Ikebana Club will be demonstrating the art of Ikebana–the art of Japanese flower arranging using local and purchased flowers. For more information, please contact Holly Ramsay 913-302-2014. Raytown Garden Club Tues, Aug 6, 10am; at Blue Ridge Presbyterian Church, 6429 Blue Ridge Blvd, Raytown, MO. We will have a brief bird presentation at the beginning of the meeting entitled “Titmouse”. Our program PowerPoint and lecture is entitled “Planting & Keeping Trees Healthy”, presented by Kenny Friedrich, Tree Manager in the Plant Health Care Department at Ryan Lawn & Tree. Refreshments will be served, and visitors are always welcome! Please come meet our group, we would love to get to know you! Check out our Facebook page at Raytown Garden Club or visit our website at https://sites.google.com/site/ fgcmwestcentral/clubs/raytown.
Events, Plant Sales & Classes August Online Food Preservation Class MU Extension offers a self-paced online food preservation course that provides research based information to safely and successfully preserve food at home. Participants of all levels of food preservation experience are welcome, including individuals with little or no previous food preservation experience. The course covers pressure canning, boiling water bath canning, steam canning, dehydration, and freezing. Highlights of the
course include preserving salsas, pie fillings, pickling, sweet spreads, and harvesting and storage of produce. Enroll at: https://extension2.missouri.edu/courses. Urban region Nutrition and Health Education Specialists will offer hands on practice sessions this summer and fall as follow-up learning opportunities. For more information, contact Nutrition and Health specialists: Denise Sullivan: 816482-5850; Lydia Kaume: 816-252-5051; Amy Vance: 816-407-3490. Hands-on Food Preservation Classes As a follow up to the MU Extension online class, hands-on workshops will be offered by MU Extension-Jackson County office on the following dates: Aug 6, 5:30-7:30pm – Pickling Aug 13, 5:30-7:30pm – Salsa Aug 20, 5:30-7:30pm – Pressure Canning Online course, covering food science and safety principles, must be completed prior to attending hands-on workshops. Enroll in online course at: https://extension2.missouri.edu/courses. Registration is $20 per session or $50 for all three classes. Classes are held at the MU Extension office, 105 E 5th St, Kansas City MO. Register by calling 816-4825850. Small Trees in the Landscape Thurs, Aug 1, 11:30am-1pm; at the Sunflower Room, Wyandotte County Extension Office, 1208 N 79th St, Kansas City, KS. There are numerous small trees that provide ornamental value to our homes. Lynn Loughary, K-State Research & Extension Horticulture Agent, will talk about those species and the attributes of each, as well as, any cultural needs to help them thrive in our challenging climate. Sponsored by Wyandotte County Extension Master Gardeners. Registration is not required. Fee: $5.00 (waived for certified master gardeners). Please call 913-299-9300 if you need further information. Fountains of Kansas City Mon, Aug 5, 6pm refreshments, 6:30pm presentation; at Loose Park Garden Center, 51st St and Wornall Rd, Kansas City, MO. A presentation on the “Rich and Interesting” history of the many beautiful fountains found in Kansas City. Ms. Joecelyn Edson-Ball, an avid gardener and now retired from many years of service at the Parks & Recreation Department, will share her vast knowledge not found anywhere else. Sponsored by The Greater Kansas City Gardeners of America. Herbs for the Everyday Gardener Tues, Aug 6, 4pm; at Lansing Community Library, 730 Terrace, Suite 1, Lansing, KS 66043. Leavenworth County Master Gardeners, Mikey Stafford, Jo Domann and Joyce Caratura, will give a presentation on how to grow, dry and use garden herbs. The meeting is free and open to the public. For more information contact Paula Darling at 913-240-4094. Fall Vegetable Gardening Wed, Aug 7, 6-7pm; at Clinton Parkway Nursery, 4900 Clinton Pkwy, Lawrence,
KS 66047. A whole new season of vegetable garden awaits this fall. Learn what you can plant this fall. All workshops last an hour plus time for questions. FREE, but seating is limited, so please RSVP either by clicking on “going” on our Facebook page or call 785-842-3081. Songbirds of Missouri Sat, Aug 10, 10am-2:30pm; at Anita B Gorman Discovery Center, 4750 Troost Ave, Kansas City, MO 64110. Walk-in (all ages) Learning to become a birder is a unique experience that can begin in your own backyard! Would you like to discover how to attract a variety of native songbirds to your backyard, including making a simple homemade feeder? Once you know more about their nesting habits, eating behaviors and favorite foods it’s a sure bet you’ll have them as guests for your viewing pleasure year-round! 816-759-7300; www. mdc.mo.gov/discoverycenter; For more information email discoverycenter@ mdc.mo.gov. KC Cactus and Succulent Society Annual Show and Sale Sat, Aug 10 and Sun, Aug 11; at Loose Park Garden Center, 51st St and Wornall Rd, Kansas City, MO. This is the 41st Annual Show and Sale on Sat, Aug 10, 9am-5pm (Judged show opens to the public at 11am. Sale opens at 9am.) and Sun, Aug 11, 1-4pm. Show and Sale are free and open to the public. Contact 816-444-9321 or evaal@att.net for more information. For information on the Kansas City Cactus and Succulent Society, visit our website: kccactus.com. Visitors are welcome to join the fun. Herbs for the Everyday Gardener Wed, Aug 14, 7pm; at Basehor Community Library, 1400 158th St, Basehor, KS 66007. Leavenworth County Master Gardeners, Mikey Stafford, Jo Domann and Joyce Caratura will give a presentation on how to grow, dry and use garden herbs. The meeting is free and open to the public. For more information contact Paula Darling at 913-240-4094.
Safe Digging starts with
YOU
1
Call or Click 3 Working Days Before You Dig.
2
Wait the Required Amount of Time.
3
Confirm Utility Response.
4
Respect the Marks.
5
Dig with Care.
Herbs for the Everyday Gardener Thurs, Aug 15, 7pm; at Leavenworth Public Library, 417 Spruce St, Leavenworth, KS 66048. Leavenworth County Master Gardeners, Mikey Stafford, Jo Domann and Joyce Caratura will give a presentation on how to grow, dry and use garden herbs. The meeting is free and open to the public. For more information contact Paula Darling at 913-240-4094. GKC Iris Society Plant Sale Sat, Aug 17, 10am-3pm; at the Trailside Center, 9901 Holmes, Kansas City, MO. Add color to your garden by selecting from hundreds of locally grown iris varieties for sale. Includes TB, BB, IB, SDB and MTB. Don’t know what these designations mean? Come visit us and find out or check out the American Iris Society website: www.irises.org or the GKCIS website: www.kciris.org. Come early for best selection! (continued on page 20)
mo1call.com
1-800-DIG-RITE or 811 The Kansas City Gardener | August 2019
19
Koi Pond and Water Feature Designs
Upcoming Garden Events places to go, things to do, people to see
(continued from page 19)
New Installations, Remodels Upgrades, Repairs and Maintenance Services Wendy Hix • 913.481.5416 Tate Foster • 913.406.6804 www.hixandsonaquatics.com
MoKan Daylily Plant Sale Sat, Aug 17, 8:30am-3:30pm or until sell out; at Loose Park Garden Center, Kansas City, MO. MoKan Daylily Society sale has hundreds of different daylilies! Bare root, clumps, and newer daylilies in pots. Planting demonstrations, tips corner, and educational handouts. Members available to answer questions. Rearing Caterpillars Sat, Aug 17, 1-2:30pm; at Burr Oak Woods Conservation Nature Center, 1401 NW Park Rd, Blue Springs, MO 64015. No registration required (families). Raising butterflies from caterpillars can be a fun way to learn about native butterflies, their lifecycle and importance in the natural world. From where to find larvae to housing and food, you will learn how you can be a part of this magical process at home. For more information email burr.oak@mdc.mo.gov; 816-2283766; www.mdc.mo.gov/burroakwoods Beekeeping I Wed, Aug 21 & 28, 6:30-8:30pm; at Johnson County Community College, 12345 College Blvd, Overland Park, KS. This is an introductory course into beekeeping. We will review the importance of honey bees in our everyday life. Participants will learn about the life cycle of the honey bee, their history, and become familiar with today’s beekeeping techniques. Fee: $59. To enroll go to https://ce.jccc.edu or call 913-469-2323.
Try Our Fiery Feast™ Seed Blend: Feed the Birds, Not the Squirrels! You enjoy feeding your backyard birds, but sometimes those pesky squirrels and other critters can put a damper on things. That’s why we offer a variety of hot pepper bird foods, including Fiery Feast™ available exclusively at Wild Birds Unlimited. It’s a mix of hot pepper and shell-less seeds so it’s also a no-mess way to feed the birds. Shop our store to learn how Fiery Feast can help keep the critters away from your bird feeders.
of Leawood, KS
Locally Owned and Proudly serving Kansas City for 31 years 11711 Roe Avenue (NE corner 119th and Roe) • 913-491-4887 Hours: Mon-Fri 10am-6pm; Sat 9am-5pm; Sun noon-4pm www.wbu.com/kansascity
Join us at www.facebook.com/wbuleawoodks
BIRDSEED • FEEDERS • BIRDBATHS • OPTICS • GARDEN ACCENTS
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August 2019 | kcgmag.com
Mosquitos in Missouri Sat, Aug 24, 10-11am; at Burr Oak Woods Conservation Nature Center, 1401 NW Park Rd, Blue Springs, MO 64015. No registration required (all ages). It’s summer and beneficial bees are buzzing but so are those pesky blood thirsty mosquitos! Everyone knows them, but what do we really know about them? Why do they have a taste for blood and what is their role in Missouri’s food web? For more information email burr. oak@mdc.mo.gov; 816-228-3766, www. mdc.mo.gov/burroakwoods. Insect-O-Rama Sat, Aug 31, 10am-2:30pm; at Anita B Gorman Discovery Center, 4750 Troost Ave, Kansas City, MO 64110. Walkin (all ages). Insects are beneficial and an amazing part of the natural world. Grab a net and discover the insects that call the Discovery Center home. You will learn identification tips and even discover if any insects are edible! There will be activities for all ages to enjoy and the opportunity to post your insect discovery on our iNaturalist page. For more information email discoverycenter@mdc.mo.gov; 816-759-7300; www. mdc.mo.gov/discoverycenter
September/October Beekeeping II Wed, Sep 4 & 11, 6:30-8:30pm; at Johnson County Community College, 12345 College Blvd, Overland Park, KS. This course offers an in depth review of current beekeeping practices. You will study beekeeping in the classroom and explore a beehive in the field. The course will give you hands on experience working a beehive. Fee: $59. To enroll go to https://ce.jccc.edu or call 913-469-2323. Lawn Care 101, Mowing, Reseeding, & Fertilizing Wed, Sep 4, 6-7pm; at Clinton Parkway Nursery, 4900 Clinton Pkwy, Lawrence, KS 66047. Time to start thinking lawn renovation and fall fertilizing. Get a hands-on demonstration on how to reseed, best mowing practices, and fertilizing. This workshop last an hour plus time for questions. FREE, but seating is limited, so please RSVP either by clicking on “going” on our Facebook page or call 785-842-3081. Handouts provided. Fall Herbs – Healthy Ways to Use and Preserve the Harvest Sat, Sep 7, 1-4pm; at Johnson County Community College, 12345 College Blvd, Overland Park, KS. Discover ideas about what to do with your abundance of healthy Fall herbs. Discuss harvest techniques and various preserving methods for culinary and medicinal uses. An informative beginner’s class, with hands-on learning and useful recipes for the kitchen. Don’t let all those precious herbs die with the first frost. The goal is to get you comfortable growing and using more of these flavorful, healthy, and nutrient-packed garden gems. Fee: $39. To enroll go to https://ce.jccc.edu or call 913-469-2323. ARS Rose Show and Conference Sep 13-15; at the Country Club Plaza Holiday Inn. The Kansas City Rose Society is hosting the American Rose Society’s Central District Rose Show and Conference. All rose growers are invited to enter the show. You do not need to be a member of the ARS or Kansas City Rose Society to participate. The show will be open for public viewing from 2-4pm Sep 14. For more information, visit www.kansascityrosesociety.org. Fall Native Plant Sale Sat, Sep 14, 9am-2pm; at Backyard Bird Center, 6212 NW Barry Rd, Kansas City, MO 64154. Fall is a great time to plant natives. The growing season is almost over; the warm soil and cooler air temperatures give plants a boost in root growth, gaining a year development on natives planted in the spring. Native plants improve habitat in your yard by
supporting insects that serve as an important food source for nesting birds. If you have been to one of these sales, you know that it is important to come early as there are only limited supplies of certain plants. Visit www.mowildflowers.net to get an idea of what kinds of plants he will be bringing and even place a preorder. Plan It Native Regional Conference Wed, Sep 18 through Fri, Sep 20; at Intercontinental Hotel Kansas City, 401 Ward Pkwy, Kansas City, MO. Presented by Deep Roots KC, formerly the KC Native Plant Initiative, Plan It Native is coming to Kansas City. This inaugural conference brings tools, tips and experience from leading national and regional landscape professionals to one locale and combines that learning with networking time to help you advance your landscape practices. We look forward to Planning It and planting it native with you! Contact: Sarah Beier, sarah@deeprootskc.org, 816-301-7545 x 701 Beekeeping III Wed, Sep 18 & 25, 6:30-8:30pm; at Johnson County Community College, 12345 College Blvd, Overland Park, KS. This class will be a fun and active way to learn how to be a successful backyard beekeeper. We will provide the basic knowledge needed to keep and manage a healthy beehive, and produce honey and beeswax. This class will cover bee behavior, hive management, diseases, pests, swarming and how to harvest honey right from your own backyard. Fee: $59. To enroll go to https://ce.jccc. edu or call 913-469-2323. Hasta Luego Monarchs at Pollinator Prairie Sat, Sep 21, 9am-2pm; at Pollinator Prairie, located at 320 S Blake St, Olathe, KS. People of all ages are invited to attend a family-friendly event hosted by the Johnson County Extension Master Naturalists to celebrate the annual migration of the Monarch butterfly to Mexico. This event is free. Participants will learn about Monarchs and other butterfly species with hands-on activities including: Demonstrations by Monarch Watch including catch and release of butterflies every half hour; Hands-on caterpillar and butterfly exhibit hosted by the K-State Extension Master Gardeners Wildlife Habitat Committee; Exhibits on benefits of pollinators; Entertainment, music, and more. For more information on the Hasta Luego Monarchs Event, visit www. johnson.k-state.edu or call 913-7157000. If you would like to see more about the Pollinator Prairie, please visit www. pollinator.org/pollinator-prairie or www. facebook.com/PollinatorPrairie/
Bird Feeder Cleaning Day Sat, Sep 21, 9am-4pm; at Backyard Bird Center, 6212 NW Barry Rd, Kansas City, MO 64154. We have been cleaning feeders pretty much since we have been in this building and we hope that the event has led to cleaner feeders and healthier birds around our area. We also sincerely hope that this isn’t the only time people clean their feeders. In a perfect world, you would clean your feeders once per month. Here is how it works: Drop off your feeder(s) in the morning (no later than 3pm) and $3 will get your feeder cleaned with all of the proceeds going to the Parkville Nature Sanctuary. If the feeder is either exceptionally dirty or if minor repairs are required, we ask that your donation be $5. We do have a “deem a feeder too fragile to clean” rule we use in the rarest of occasions. Please pick up your feeders in the afternoon or Sunday. If you know how small our backroom is, you know we do not have room to keep feeders for several days. Fall Parade of Homes Kicks off Sep 28 Sep 28-Oct 13. The Parade features homes by some of the area’s finest builders and includes townhomes, villas and single-family homes with a variety of floor plans featuring the latest design trends. Presented twice a year by the Home Builders Association of Greater Kansas City (HBA), the Kansas City Parade of Homes is the second largest in the United States. Since 1947, millions of greater Kansas City residents and visitors have enjoyed viewing the latest in-home innovations, styles and decorating, and this year’s Spring Parade will be no different as it showcases the area’s premier new homes, home builders and communities. All homes will be open daily from 11am-6pm with free admission. Free Parade guides will be available for pickup at the HBA (I-435 & Holmes) beginning the week prior and at all Parade homes during the event. In addition, consumers will be able to download a user-friendly mobile app at KCParadeofHomes.com. Advanced Beekeeping – Pests and Diseases Wed, Oct 2, 6:30-8:30pm; at Johnson County Community College, 12345 College Blvd, Overland Park, KS. Explore the greatest challenges in today’s beekeeping world. You will do an indepth study and review of beekeeping diseases and pests. Learn how to identify pests and diseases in the early stages and the best practices for treatment alternatives. In addition, review new regulations and laws that impact our bees. Fee: $29. To enroll go to https://ce.jccc.edu or call 913-469-2323.
More events are posted on our website, KCGMAG.COM, click on “Events.” Promote club meetings, classes, seminars, plant sales, regional conferences and other gardening events for FREE! Send details to:
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www.superlawnstuff.com The Kansas City Gardener | August 2019
21
August
garden calendar
n LAWN
• Water bluegrass two to three times per week, applying a total of about 1 ½ inches of water for a lush green look. • Water tall fescue one to two times per week, applying a total of 1 inch of water. • For lower water usage, water once every one to two weeks. • Apply last application of fertilizer to Zoysia by mid-month. • Plan for fall renovation projects such as aerating or seeding. • Keep mower blades sharp. • Mow as needed based on growth. • Control unwanted Zoysia or Bermuda in early August using a non-selective herbicide. • Determine the fertility program right for your lawn with a soil test.
n TREES AND SHRUBS
• Water young trees every one to two weeks, thoroughly soaking the root system. • Prune and shape hedges. • Check mulch layer and add if needed. • Prune broken, dead or crossing limbs. • Check young trees and shrubs for girdling wires and ropes. • Avoid fertilizing so limbs harden off before winter. • Hand remove bagworms.
n VEGETABLES AND FRUITS
• Water one inch per week. •P lant a fall garden–beets, carrots, beans and turnips for autumn harvest.
• Plant transplants of broccoli, cauliflower and cabbage for fall production. • Harvest crops regularly for season-long production. • Ease fruit loads on branches by propping with wooden supports. • Net ripening fruit to protect from hungry birds. • Fertilize strawberry beds for added flower bud development. • Turn compost pile and add water when dry.
n FLOWERS
• Apply 1 to 1 ½ inches of water per week to gardens. • Divide irises and daylilies during their dormant period. • Make last application of fertilizer to roses by mid-month. • Control black spot and other rose diseases. • Fertilize mums, hardy asters and other fall-blooming perennials. • Deadhead annuals to encourage late season blooms. • Cut back and fertilize annuals to produce new growth. • Sow hollyhocks, poppies and larkspur for spring. • Prepare for fall bulb planting by making orders or researching varieties. • Take cuttings from geraniums and begonias for wintering indoors.
n HOUSEPLANTS
• Continue to water outside summered houseplants regularly and fertilize. • Check plants for insects such as scales, aphids and spider mites. • Wash plants to remove dust layers. • Make cuttings and repot plants before summer sun slips away.
Johnson County K-State Research and Extension recommends environmentally-friendly gardening practices. This starts by identifying and monitoring problems. Cultural practices and controls are the best approach for a healthy garden. If needed, use physical, biological or chemical controls. Always consider the least toxic approach first. Dennis Patton is the horticulture agent for Johnson County K-State Research and Extension. For free information fact sheets, visit www.johnson.ksu.edu, or call the Extension office at 913-715-7000.
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August 2019 | kcgmag.com
14935 Metcalf • Overland Park, KS 913-897-4700 www.classicstatuarykc.com
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STILWELL, KS WWW.JOHNSONCOUNTYTOPSOIL.COM
DAYLILY SALE Saturday, August 17 8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Loose Park Garden Center 51st St. and Wornall Rd. Kansas City, Mo.
Mo-Kan Daylily Society
Hotlines for Gardeners Extension Master Gardeners are ready to answer your gardening questions.
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GAR RENEDREN GAR DGEANRED ER Beyond The K T ty K an sa Cihe s C it y a n s a s C Th e Ka ns as ity A M on th ly
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785-843-7058; mastergardener@douglas-county.com; Mon-Fri, 1-4pm
GREATER KANSAS CITY MISSOURI AREA
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Name: Address:
JOHNSON COUNTY, MO
660-747-3193; Wed, 9am-noon
City, State, Zip:
LEAVENWORTH COUNTY
Phone:
MIAMI COUNTY
E-mail: Where did you pick up The Kansas City Gardener?
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Please enclose your check payable to The Kansas City Gardener and mail with this form to: P.O. Box 8725, Prairie Village, KS 66208 The Kansas City Gardener is published monthly Jan. through Dec.
Meet Master Gardener, Jim Koch
What first drew you to the hobby of gardening: I lived my life on a grain farm until I went away to college. I remember as a small child planting potatoes, weeding and picking strawberries. I had a garden of some size and variety from the days I graduated from college. First
it was a large flower pot or two with a couple of tomatoes. Later I branched into heirloom vegetables, especially tomatoes and potatoes. How long have you been a Master Gardener: This is my ninth year as a Master Gardener, Class of 2011. I felt like I needed to get a better knowledge level to do things right in the garden. After taking the classes, I realized how much there is to know and that I needed to learn everyday. Most valuable information learned: Every garden a small ecosystem. In the system, there will be good insects, pests, weeds, intended plants and hopefully support creatures. It is always good to see small toads as that is a strong indicator of a healthy garden. If you panic and attempt to kill every insect pest, you will also hurt pollinators, toads and possibly small birds. If you try to eradicate all weeds, you probably end up using chemicals that harm good plants, insects or creatures. You need to determine population sizes and when (or if) to take appropriate measures. Favorite tool: A simple hoe. It is an old type tool that I am most comfortable with. Favorite plant type: I do not work with many trees and shrubs. The exception is fruit trees. I have a Kafir Lime tree and a small orchard that I am learning about.
Do you have a specialty: My specialty is growing vegetables. I strongly believe that everyone should know how to grow their own food. I currently work in a Demo Garden growing vegetables. Our mission is to see if a 1000 square foot plot would feed a family of four. We grew 1176 pounds of food on our small plot last year. This would feed a family. We grow the standard vegetables plus a few exotics for fun. Our crop this year included peanuts, celery and fennel. What are you paassionate about: I am probably most passionate about growing food. I have discovered many new foods. When you grow your own food, you develop an eye for produce in the stores and farmers market. You also learn many of the common public misunderstandings about GMOs, GEOs, heirlooms, hybrids and organics. There are many errors in general thought about these. We need to do a better job educating the general public and busting those misconceptions. Advice to share: Gardening is fun. We work until we get tired or it becomes not fun. We call it a day and come back later. Who has inspired you: My inspiration for gardening can be traced back to my family. We always had a vegetable garden and everyone was involved.
The Kansas City Gardener | August 2019
23
Summer Treasures
Knock Out Roses 2 Gal. // Reg. $21.99 SALE $16.99*
Knock Out David Austin Drift And more!
Photo: Salvia
Rose Sale
*While supplies last, through 8/25
Echinacea
Pugster BlueÂŽ Butterfly Bush
Cardinal Flower
Liatris
Butterflies, especially our treasured Monarch visitors will bring color and action to gardens in August and September. Greet them with some of their favorite perennials available at all of our store locations. Many varieties and sizes to choose from.
2 Gal. // $29.99
Butterfly Bushes We have a variety of sizes and colors to choose from. Many are reblooming and are sure to fill your senses all season. 24
August 2019 | kcgmag.com
105th & Roe (913) 649-8700
K-7 & Prairie Star Pkwy (913) 897-5100
135th & Wornall (816) 942-2921
#suburbanlg // suburbanlg.com