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Michael Cavanaugh
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Elizabeth Cavanaugh
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Carl Hamilton
Glenn Hodges
Lenora Larson
Dennis Patton
Tamra Reall
Anthony Reardon
Scott Woodbury
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Remember my friend Amy, who dropped by my garden last year? I shared the story of our meeting and my embarrassment of the number of noticeable spider webs as we strolled my garden. Staying about five steps ahead, I tidied up while we walked and talked about our gardens. I soon let go of the self-induced pressure of a perfectly tidy garden, and began to enjoy talking about my garden.
Well, dear Amy was back in touch to invite me to speak to her group of gardeners. “Just tell the story of how you started the magazine,” she said. I reminded myself to take it easy. We’re all just regular gardeners having fun.
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What a privilege it was to spend time with this group of gardeners. They are community gardeners who have garden plots at one of our city parks in Prairie Village. After introductions, and my apology for having clean nails (gardeners have dirty fingernails, right), I made this clear—I’ll tell you my story and you feel free to ask questions along the way. I’m not fond of hearing myself talk. “My hope is to hear about your gardens,” which is always my wish when gathering with gardeners.
This event turned out to be a real delight for me. I left feeling inspired by what you can accomplish in a 4’X20’ space. Those of
us living in neighborhoods with heavy tree canopy know the limitations of having a vegetable garden. Having a plot in this community garden where sunlight is ample sets gardeners on the path to a plentiful bounty. And after touring Amy’s plot, I was amazed at her success. Now I’m considering a plot of my own.
Hanging with fellow gardeners sharing our success stories as well as our failures is an easy way to learn. Not only are we willing to share our experiences, but also we will offer to teach what we know.
Another opportunity for community gathering was after the severe thunderstorm of July 14, that devastated our area with downed trees and widespread power outages. We were without electricity for four days. While it was summer hot and high humidity, spending time outside with our neighbors was the respite we all needed to talk about the obvious as well as a multitude of other topics. Like the houses that have recently sold, and those that are preparing to sell and why. How the kids across the street have grown. How is our neighbor on the west faring after her husband suddenly passed away. John, our neighbor to the east gives an update on his daughter who moved to California. How is Dixie handling assisted living. We live on a street
where everyone knows your name. I love that.
These are opportunities for connection. We go about our daily routine allowing technology to infiltrate the most intimate parts of our lives by being connected. And in doing so, we fail to make a connection with our neighbors. While four of us were chatting in the driveway, Kylee said, “Isn’t this nice?” Slowing our pace, we all agree, is one of the benefits of the storm. Like the gardeners gathering where we chatted about our gardens, our driveway gathering was similar, one of caring and sharing a portion of our lives. A fully human experience, a community in the garden.
I’ll see you in the garden!
Dear Readers – I am excited to welcome my new co-worker to the column. Anthony Reardon joined Johnson County Extension as our agent specializing in edible crops. Anthony is a K-State Horticulture graduate. I will continue to work in ornamentals and with our wonderful Extension Master Gardener volunteers. Please join me in welcoming Anthony to our KC gardening family Dennis
Question: I want to give fall cool-season vegetables a try this year, but I’m not sure how to go about it. Is there a difference between planting for spring harvest and planting for fall harvest?
Anthony’s Answer: The primary factor to keep in mind with spring and fall cool-season crops is the differences observed in environmental temperatures, both above and below ground. In the early months of the year, when planting for a spring harvest, soil is likely to still be very cold. Believe it or not, cool season crops prefer this as they germinate, as the seedlings have less-hostile conditions to fight against as they root out and grow. Because of this, minor modifications must be made for the heat in late summer. Namely, plant the seeds slightly deeper than recommended, where the soil is likely to be cooler.
Water also will be a large factor to consider when planting for a fall crop, as the soil is more likely to dry out or crust over due to the heat. Monitor soil moisture to be consistently moist, potentially incorporating compost or organic matter over the rows to assist your efforts. As the seedlings emerge, watering frequency then can be gradually backed off so to prevent root rot or dampening-off of the seedlings.
Keep in mind as well, insects and wildlife will be in full force in the late summer as opposed to late winter when they’re hibernat-
ing. Mitigation efforts for both will likely need to be made proactively instead of reactively with fall vegetable crops.
Question: I’m interested in trying a cover crop in my vegetable garden this year. Which one should I go with? Is there a benefit to one over the other?
Anthony’s Answer: Cover crops can offer numerous benefits to a vegetable garden, including protecting the soil from erosion,
requires heavy equipment for sowing in. The list goes on.
The truth of the matter is that any type of cover crop is going to provide its own unique set of both benefits and challenges. Doing your research on those unique individual plant types is going to be how you know which to choose.
Know what you are trying to achieve by using your cover crop. Know just how much labor you are willing to put into maintenance. There are numerous options out there, from perennials, to summer
ing, do you know if the oak itch mites will be back? It has been several years since I have had issues.
Dennis’ Answer: Oak itch mites about did us in a few years back. Our office receives calls all the time about itch mites. The good news bad news is that there are always a few issues each year but a major outbreak seems to be few and far between. We still know little about their life cycle and all their hosts. We do know one of their main food sources is the oak marginal gall mainly associated with Pin oak.
Oak marginal gall caused by an insect does not seem to be high this spring and summer. Hopefully there will be less issues as move into the fall season. With that being said there can still be pockets in
aerating the soil, fixing nitrogen into the soil, and assisting with fertility. Thus, determining which of these benefits you are looking to achieve will be your first step in cover crop selection. Keep in mind, not all plants only offer one benefit. Alfalfa, for example, is an extremely deep-rooted legume, which means that it is both efficient at reducing soil erosion AND fixing Nitrogen.
That same alfalfa, however, may need occasionally mown down. It is expensive to establish; it will need to be worked into the soil to get the nitrogen benefits; it
annuals, to winter annuals. There are grains with deep roots that will hold the soil in, radishes with wide roots that will till the soil up, and legumes with giant beans that will fix nitrogen. The possibilities are wide for exploring.
When you have a more narrowed idea of what benefits you’re looking for, selection is as simple as determining the amount of labor you are willing to do and matching that to the plant’s maintenance requirements.
Question: With fall approach-
your area. For now, enjoy the summer and we will just need to wait until fall with the peak emergence of the itch mite as they prepare for winter. Personal protection and limiting time outdoors is still the best defense.
Question: I have found a small amount of poison ivy and I prefer not to use chemicals. Can I control the poison ivy with vinegar?
Dennis’ Answer: Poison ivy is a perennial woody plant. Perennial plants are always more difficult to
Dennis and Anthony are the horticulture agents for Johnson County K-State Research and Extension, each specializing in ornamentals and edible crops, respectively. For free information fact sheets, visit www.johnson.ksu.edu, or call the Extension office at 913-715-7000.
control as they have a more extensive root system. Effective control of perennial plants must kill the root system. If not, they grow back.
Organic herbicides such as vinegar work best on annual plants. Vinegar works by “burning” the foliage with a strong acid. Using vinegar to control a perennial is not going to be highly effective. It will take repeated applications to slowly weaken out the stored food reserves. The solution does not translocate to the roots to eradicate. Keep in mind horticulture grade vinegar is not the vinegar in the pantry. Cooking vinegar is 5% acid. Vinegar used for weed control is around 20% acetic acid. This strength will also burn the skin.
The best organic option may be to dig out the poison ivy. Give vin-
egar a try but I think you will need to be persistent.
Question: I had a tree removed and the company chipped the wood. Can these wood chips be used as mulch?
Dennis’ Answer: Trees removed and chipped make an excellent mulch. Don’t worry about any diseases or insects being transmitted through chipped trees. Once chipped the mulch is not a suitable home for pest. The only difference between your chipped tree and the wood mulch you purchase is screening. Commercial mulches have been screened so that all chips are similar sizes. My recommendation is use your free source.
The Marais des Cygnes Master Gardeners are hosting “A September to Remember” garden tour on September 8th and 9th this year. The final stages of preparations are underway for what will be a wonderful, diverse tour. Six beautiful gardens are being showcased.
Green’s Natural Creations, owned by Bob and Lynn Green is an amazing jewel of a garden. Bob and Lynn have created natural artwork throughout the landscapes. Multiple water features create cozy, calming areas to relax and enjoy the colors and textures of the many trees, plants and artwork. Lynn and Bob created all the landscape beds. Bob has added wonderful driftwood features and hand-made birdhouses. Lynn, a Master Gardener in Johnson County, utilizing her talents, added her eye for colorful ornamental flowers. Talent runs in the family as artwork has been added by Lynn and Bob’s children and grandchildren.
Rodger’s Prairie is owned by
Tim and Susan Rodgers. After purchasing the property, Tim began working with the Conservation Department to return the land to a native tall grass prairie. Twelve species of forbs and four native grasses were planted after an initial burn. Today, Tim keeps an area around the prairie mowed to help create a buffer area against invading weeds. This area teems with life and gazing over the prairie, you can see native bees, insects, butterflies and birds all using this wonderful habitat.
Wood Gate Hill, owned by Chuck Michael and Chris Coffey is a work of love and dedication. Not only do their gardens reflect the owners professional landscaping backgrounds, they are filled with beautiful artwork and statuary. They have turned their 80 acres of undeveloped farmland into elegant gardens. Beautiful manicured lawns lead to a lake, home to geese and ducks. They have created many garden rooms, incorporating art, furniture and textures, each one
carefully planned. Many water features, fountains and falls create a tranquil and beautiful atmosphere.
Miami County Court House Gardens are our own Master Gardener project begun in 2008 around the historical court house built in 1898. Our connection to the gardens began with a grant from the Beahr Foundation to enhance the courthouse lawn. 2011 saw the establishment of a Monarch Waystation with perennial milkweed and annual plantings of tropical milkweed. Over the years the gardens have expanded adding plants, trees, sidewalks, benches, an arbor, and artworks.
Orange Moon Apothecary and Farm is owned by Paul and Vicki Vetter-Scruggs. Vicki, a Master Gardener with Marais des Cygnes extension, has studied meditation and using herbal compounds for relief of physical and emotional conditions. She is a Certified Natural Health Professional and has an apothecary shop onsite. Raised beds are homes for the many herbs, berries and vegetables used in rem-
edies and cooking. The hoop house extends the growing season. The farm is also home to peacocks, goats, bee hives, chickens, and ducks. No pesticides are used on the property and it is certified as a pollinator and butterfly garden.
Flagstone Walk is owned by Tami and Terry Fowler in Hillsdale. Tami and Terry moved into their home in 2017 and immediately started renovations on the house and property. The reclamation became a treasure hunt as flower beds and flagstone walks were uncovered. Restoring and enhancing the garden has been Tami’s passion for the last six years. Berms and flagstone walkways outline the emerging gardens that are filled with elephant ear, hostas, impatiens and begonias that grow under spreading catalpa trees. Terry has helped plan and execute the garden design, builds much of the hardscaping and works as the engineer to keep everything running.
Please look for our ad on page 17 for ticketing information.
Intensely sweet banana flavor and silky mango texture are the hallmarks of pawpaw fruits, or hillbilly mango (Asimina triloba). Half the people I chat with steer clear of Missouri bananas—another of the vernacular names for the fruit of this understory tree with a tropical appearance. The other half is crazy for them—they can’t get enough.
I used to pass when it came to pawpaw, until Jen Sieradzki at Shaw Nature Reserve shared this simple recipe for pawpaw ice cream. Start with 2 cups of pawpaw pulp, which comes from about 10 fruits, minus the skin and seeds. The fruits are really easy to process with a knife and large spoon: split in half and scoop out the contents.
Pawpaws are ripe when soft like a peach. The real trick is harvesting them. They are ripe in August and September. I like to look up and shake tree stems. The fruits move differently than the leaves, and when ripe, they come down with a thud, even on top of you, so be careful. Fruits can vary in size.
For this recipe, use the fresh fruit, or, freeze the pulp for later use.
Next, add 3/4 cup of sugar to the pulp and blend in a food processor. Then stir in 2 cups of whole milk and 2 cups of heavy whipping cream. Put this mixture in the freezer for two hours to chill, then place in an ice cream maker. Best ice cream ever! Now I am mad for pawpaws and pawpaw ice cream.
Pawpaw trees are easily grown at home. Forrest Keeling Nursery is a good source for plants. Plant at least two or three seedlings for successful fruit production, because, like apple trees, they require crosspollination.
Another delicacy I can’t get enough of is plum jam made from wild plum (Prunus americana) or big fruit plum (P. mexicana). Big fruit plum fruits are a little bigger than those of wild plum, and easier to process. Start by planting at least three trees near each other. They fruit well on alternate years, and production is better with multiple trees. A few years later (tadah!) gather the small, tart fruits in
late June and July when they begin to fall naturally from the trees. Simmer 3 pounds of fruits in two cups of water for about 15 minutes, enough to soften the skins.
Remove the fruits from the hot water (save the water), cool, and pit them. Return the pitted fruits back to the water, add 1 pound of sugar and stir until dissolved. Bring to a boil for 10 minutes, remove from heat, cool, and seal in jars. You can keep opened or unsealed jars in the fridge for several months. Try the same recipe with Missouri gooseberries or golden currents, both of which are very tart.
Don’t tell my friends and family, but I have never loved their baked persimmon treats. I’ve been served cookies, crumbles, cakes, muffins, and bars, which, to me, resemble day-old bagels rather than tender, flaky, moist bakery delights. That is until the late Maxine Schuler served me persimmon pudding from the Fields of Greens cookbook by Annie Somerville. Ooo la la! English puddings are cakes baked in a water bath under foil. They come out incredibly moist and flaky, like Boston brown bread. Low temperature
From the bonny bells of heather
They brewed a drink long—syne,
Was sweeter far than honey,
Was stronger far than wine. They brewed it and they drank it,
And lay in a blessed swound…
Robert Louis Stevenson Scotland 1850-1894and long bake time are key, along with a startlingly generous amount of butter and a few dashes of rum. You will need to secure a food mill (Foley’s for example) for easy pulp processing. Persimmon pulp lasts in the freezer for years.
This recipe may entice you to plant a persimmon grove in your
Scott Woodbury was the horticulturist at Shaw Nature Reserve for 30 years and stepped down from that position in June 2022. He continues to work on contract for Shaw Nature Reserve to carry out native landscaping education and has launched his own business called Cacalia: Native Garden Design and Wilding. Find suppliers of native plants, seeds, and services at the Grow Native! Resource Guide: www.moprairie.org.
own backyard. They are so easy to grow, and are very tall and narrow, squeezing into the tiniest of urban gardens. Try an improved female variety of native persimmon (Diospyros virginiana) with larger fruits and fewer seeds. Keep in mind that persimmons are dioecious, the male and female flowers are on separate trees. If you plant native seedlings, plant at least four or five, as you won’t know if they are male or female for five or more years.
The best fruits to eat fresh are serviceberry, red mulberry, black raspberry, blackberry, and strawberry.
Serviceberries (Amelanchier arborea) and red mulberry (Morus rubra) are easy to grow and are prolific fruiters. Deer, birds, and squirrels also like to eat them, so you will have competition. Both eventually grow so tall that the fruits are difficult to reach. You might invest in an orchard ladder.
Native blackberries (Rubus spp.) are much lower to the ground, but have wicked thorns, so invest in some thick denim clothing and leather gloves to harvest in July. It’s worth the effort, however, but there are thornless blackberry varieties.
Strawberry (Fragaria virginiana) is also dioecious, so it’s important to avoid propagation by division. You may end up with a garden full of male plants, as I did years ago. It’s best to find seedgrown starts, to ensure a healthy balance of male and female plants, and good berry production. Shop for this one in late May when plants are in fruit. You can handpick more female plants (just a few male plants will do) to maximize production. Rabbits love strawberries.
A book could be written about this final entry because American elderberry (Sambucus canadensis) has become the number-one berry crop in Missouri. Its clusters of deep purple berries are processed into tasty, medicinal syrups, cordials, wine, and fancy cocktails. They are high in Vitamin C and antioxidants, which are known to help boost your immune system, so a teaspoon a day will keep the doctor away. Andy Thomas, at the University of Missouri Southwest Research Station in Mt. Vernon, has been tinkering with elderberries for 25 years. He recently received a $5 million grant to explore production from Wisconsin to Oklahoma and Missouri. They
are looking for more efficient ways to harvest the tiny berries, and are busy telling the world about the wonders of this mighty native plant.
That said, Anita Chastain, a retired Montessori guru of Creve Coeur, Missouri already got the message at an early age in Europe. She grew up on batter-dipped, fried
elderberry flower clusters, a delicacy she looks back on fondly from her childhood.
Whether you’ve long been dreaming about edible plants or discovering them for the first time, you can grow and enjoy them, season after season in the sanctuary of your own backyard.
Life is short, get gardening y’all!
Note: These resources on native edibles are intended as general information only. As with any food, there is a potential for allergic reactions when consuming native edibles.
Always seek the advice of a health professional with any questions about touching or eating any plant matter.
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.
Daylilies originated in East Asia. They were mostly used for medicinal and food purposes. In the 1500s, explorers brought them to Europe. In Europe they found their way into gardens as decorative flowers. They became very popular in the United Kingdom. From the UK, they were brought over on the ship carrying colonists to North America. These were the orange ditch lilies we see all over North America today.
In the 1930s, hybridizing of modern daylilies began to take off. Hybridized daylilies developed from about 20 varieties that came from Asia. In 1946, the American Hemerocallis Society was organized to celebrate the daylily and to encourage its growth. The United States and parts of Canada were divided into 15 regions. Clubs were formed in each of these regions. Region 11 covers Kansas, Missouri, and Oklahoma. Today this national organization has been renamed the American Daylily Society. Its membership includes over 5,000 avid gardeners and daylily enthusiasts from all over the world.
What has made the modern daylily a garden favorite? First and foremost, they are tough! They can survive in a range of climate conditions from the Canadian cold to the Texas heat. They like their share of water but can survive in drought conditions with less. They like good soil but will still provide beautiful clumps and blooms in many different soils. They have
few pests and disease problems in most gardens. They enjoy six hours or more of sun a day but will tolerate lesser amounts.
Daylilies are not invasive like their ancestor, the ditch lily. Instead they will form a nice clump of fans that make great centerpieces in a garden. They are also wonderful companion plants. Daylilies offer a multitude of color choices and combinations, including orange, yellow, pink, red, green, purple, cream, peach, coral, brown, black,
for bloom size. Blooms can range from two to twelve inches or more. Most blooms average around five to seven inches.
Another consideration when selecting daylilies is the season of bloom. When a daylily is registered in the American Daylily Society database, a seasonal time of bloom is listed. Daylilies have early, mid, and late-season bloom times. To extend your daylily bloom season in the summer months, consider selecting plants with varying bloom
“I’m preaching to the choir.” If they would be new to you, give them a try! Daylilies have been referred to as one of the perfect perennial plants. When you visit your garden during daylily bloom time, you’ll feel like it’s Christmas, and there are presents to unwrap every morning.
Mo-Kan Daylily Society is holding a daylily sale at the Garden Center Building located in Loose Park at 51st and Wornall Road in Kansas City, Missouri. It will be
and gray. There are no blue or truewhite daylilies yet, but hybridizers are working on it. Daylilies offer a variety of bloom scape heights from 8 inches to 60 inches. There are even a few daylily scapes with a height of 72 inches. The majority of daylily scapes are between 24 and 40 inches tall.
Daylilies come in different bloom shapes. Circular, triangular, flat (pancake), recurved (bagel), and unusual form (UF) are some of the common ones. Daylilies also give gardeners many choices
times. Keep in mind, though, that the time a daylily starts to bloom may vary in different geographical areas, in different climate conditions, and even in different years in your own garden.
I have been sending pictures of daylilies in my garden to a friend in Baltimore, Maryland. His response was “we have thousands of this orange daylily here, but I didn’t realize there were all of these other beautiful ones.” There are currently 98,718 registered daylilies.
If you already grow daylilies,
on Saturday, August 26 from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. (or until sold out).
Customers can select from hundreds of bare root daylilies, with pictures and descriptions. There will be a planting corner with demonstrations, tips from expert daylily gardeners, and educational materials. All plants are grown locally in members’ gardens. There also will be a bargain table. You certainly will find irresistable deals. Payment is by credit card or cash. Club membership information will be available at the sale as well.
stunning, versatile, and easy to growCarl Hamilton is a member of the Mo-Kan Daylily Society. He has served in the capacity of Mo-Kan President and Vice President and has chaired or served on numerous committees. He grows over 400 daylilies in his garden and has begun hybridizing daylilies. CARL HAMILTON Daylily Devotee Carl’s Landscape Topguns Aztec Vision Vanilla Gorilla Amethyst Art Photo by Carl Hamilton. Photo by Gayle Yelenik. Photo by Dan Altnether. Photo by Carl Hamilton.
Like most families, the Carrot/ Parsley family contains both saints and sinners. The cook harvests many delicious human foods such as Carrots, Dill, Parsley, Parsnips and Celery. And many of us became butterfly gardeners after discovering “stinky worms” in our herb gardens. However, these caterpillars of the Eastern Black Swallowtails (aka EBS) don’t eat Cilantro, whose soapy aroma repels many insect pests including mosquitoes. Socrates could have told you that the family contains dangerously poisonous plants to humans and livestock. EBS caterpillars do feast on Poison Hemlock, but that deadly Carrot family member would NOT be welcome in my garden.
My Recommendation: Fennel
Fortunately, there is an outstanding family member that meets the needs of both EBS caterpillars and gardeners: Common Fennel and its more glamorous variety, ‘Smoky’. Full sun and well-draining soil produce vigorous ferny perennial plants soaring up to 6 feet tall with the delicious smell and taste of licorice. (I nibble the flower buds as I garden.) The Common has soft blue-green foliage and pale-yellow flowers, while ‘Smoky’ has striking bronze foliage and sulfur-yellow flowers. Like many Carrot family crops, Fennel should be directlysown outdoors in spring rather than transplanted. Gardeners appreciate that the resulting taproot bequeaths
the gift of drought-tolerance.
In spring, established plants quickly form blue-green or bronze mounds that begin to bloom in late June. To control rampant selfseeding, I chop the towering stalks down to 2 inches tall in late July, but only after inspection and relocation of any EBS caterpillars. The plants quickly grow back to 2-foot mounds, perfect for the fall batch of EBS caterpillars that will overwinter in their chrysalids. Despite my draconian dead-heading, spring always brings a few new seedlings, which I immediately remove before their taproots head for China.
An inhabitant of sunny prairie
seeps, Golden Alexanders is the commonly recommended native choice. I enthusiastically endorse its beauty; however, I’ve only seen caterpillars feeding twice in 20 years. In my garden, the EBS prefer Fennel. Prairie Parsley and Prairie Parsnip serve as full sun biennial hostplants, but look weedy to my eye. Many other native Carrot Family members are not hostplants and lack redeeming virtues. For instance, Hedge Parsley, which looks like a diminutive Queen Anne’s Lace, also has seeds that stick to your trousers and pets’ fur. Considering the many poisonous family look-alikes, selecting native hostplants can be risky for nonbotanists. But this time humans are
heroes, having greatly increased Black Swallowtail populations by planting pesticide-free herb gardens.
Two relatively new introductions can expand your repertoire of beautiful Carrot Family members that will benefit both your gardening aesthetic and EBS moms looking to lay their heavy burden of eggs. The biennial Moon Carrot, Seseli gumniferum, hails from Turkey and grows in full sun and well-drained soil. It does self-seed, but not excessively to become a pest. The showy white flowers are borne in massive umbels from the evergreen blue foliage that makes this plant a four-season beauty. In my garden, it surpasses Fennel as the EBS caterpillars’ favorite hostplant.
The non-native Queen Anne’s Lace is relished by EBS caterpillars but has been declared invasive by 35 states. However, Queen Anne’s Lace ‘Dara’ moves past the ordinary white flower with shades of pale pink to maroon, depending on the plant. Unlike the species, Dara is not invasive and a border or meadow of these unusual blooms will shimmer for 2 months while the long-stemmed flowers last over a week in a bouquet. Both plants are sold at our Paola Plant Sale in April or can be purchased on the Internet. EBS caterpillars will thank you for venturing beyond the ordinary!
Did you know that there is a Kids Ask Dr. Bug video series? Check it out! https:// bit.ly/KADBvideos.
Science and collaboration go hand in hand. Dr. Bug was recently a part of a conference with a lot of Extension Master Gardeners. They helped her write this article and their answers are below.
What is the purpose of an insect’s exoskeleton?
Just as we have bones, insect bodies need support. The exoskeleton is on the outside and supports the body parts like our bones inside of us. ~
Alice AllisonA bug has an outer shell, or exoskeleton, for protection. It is made from chitin. One of the purposes of an exoskeleton is to keep its “guts” from falling out. Also, the exoskeleton keeps the water in the bug from evaporating. Like us, we need to keep drinking water, so we don’t dry out. The exoskeleton also provides a suit of armor to protect it. A true knight in shining armor! ~
John MalanchakExoskeletons are amazing and have several functions. Some were mentioned above and here are a few more: support for internal organs and a place for muscles to attach, protection from drying out, protection from being squished, and they help the insect sense their surroundings! Made from chitin exoskeletons can be very hard – hard enough to withstand being stepped on or driven over, as in the case of the diabolical ironclad beetle. Do you play Minecraft? Minecraft arthropods also have chitin, and they drop chitin upon death. While this chitin can be used to make armor in the game, did you know that people used to use beetle wings to decorate their clothes? Check out these sites to see some of these clothes! https:// bit.ly/BeetleClothes1 and https://
Do bugs have families like we do?
Some do, but not all. Some insects are called social insects, like honey bees, where babies are taken care of by adults, and the adults have different jobs that take care of each other. There are spider parents who carry their babies on their backs. Other insects lay eggs and never see their babies, like praying mantids. ~
Brenda DahlforsBugs have families - other bugs that share traits and similar habits. For example, moths and butterflies (Family: Lepidoptera), bees and ants (Family: Hymenoptera), or flies and mosquitoes (Family: Diptera). Although bugs share “familiar” traits, they don’t do Thanksgiving dinner! ~
Diane OakesBugs do have families! Actually, they are grouped into insect families. Some insect parents are very good parents. For example, the giant water bug female lays eggs on the wings of a male. He will stop everything else to protect the eggs until they hatch. ~
Amanda GroleauFireflies light up to find a mate! They don’t have Facebook or phones to find a girlfriend or boyfriend. The light tells other fireflies what it is – it’s not a bird or butterfly! ~
Jennifer BaskettWhat a fiery question! Would you like your body to light up? I know I would! Especially on dark nights! But fireflies are so lucky that they have a chemical reaction in their body called bioluminescence which makes them light up to find a “friend.” ~
AnonymousMuch like humans put on their party clothes to attract that certain someone at a party, fireflies light up and use a flashy light pattern to attract a mate. ~
Lesa Smithprey?
Mosquitoes find their prey much like we find our dinner - with smell! Like other insects, mosquitoes are attracted to the scent of carbon dioxide. They seek out this smell to find their victims. They use their antennae to smell. ~
Cassie ThiessenWhat tips you off when you are
hungry? Your tummy growls and you smell dinner cooking. That is similar for mosquitoes. They get signals that a meal is near based on their senses. They find their next meal based on odors they can sense. They take a blood meal once they find their “dinner.” Hopefully it isn’t you! ~
Deb BilyeuHave you ever walked outside, and mosquitoes immediately target you?! Researchers have discovered that mosquitoes can detect skin odors and carbon dioxide. That means they can tell you’re breathing and like your smell. ~
Linda BeverDo all spiders make webs?
Not all spiders make webs, although they do make silk. Only about half of them create webs to catch their dinner. Some spiders make draglines to snare their prey, like a cowboy lasso! ~ Anonymous
Hey kids! Have you thought about having a spider as your pet? They can live in or out of your house. First make sure your spider pet is safe for you to be around. Then you can find out how they live and what they need. Look at them with a microscope and find out if they make a web, or maybe not. ~
Sherry BrinkWho hasn’t run into a spider web at some point? Spiders can swing through the air on their webs to attach them across wide spaces. But some spiders make trap doors in the ground to live. Others just wait for prey to come along and then jump on them! ~ Katherine Oliver.
Do you have questions for Dr. Bug? Send them to ReallT@Missouri. edu or https://bit.ly/KidsAskDrBug. Please include your name and age. To help me learn what you learn from this column, consider filling out this survey: https://bit.ly/ KidsAskDrBugSurvey.
Mowing • Trimming
Planting • Mulching
Seeding • Aeration
Fertilization • Clean Up
Barclay Berberian 913-208-5941
LawnsByBarclay.com
# Select from hundreds of different bare root daylilies with pictures and descriptions
# Planting Corner with demonstration, tips, and educational materials
# Bargain Table
# All plants are from members’ gardens
# Payment by credit card and cash
Loose Park Garden Center, 51st St. and Wornall Rd., Kansas City, MO
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Experience the beauty of our “Lotus Entertain You” Water Garden Tour as we showcase stunning water gardens across the metropolitan area. In honor of nature’s art, we have invited some talented plein air artists to showcase their work throughout the day at various locations. To top it off, join us for an unforgettable evening garden party, generously sponsored by a local business.
Only 3 tour dates remain in the 2023 Season of Tours scheduled for the following Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. — Rain or Shine
July 29 Tour, Jackson County MO: Includes KCMO north and west of I-435 loop, Raytown, Independence, Sugar Creek, Blue Springs, and Wellington
Aug 19 Tour, Jackson County MO: Includes KCMO south and east of I-435 loop, Lee’s Summit, Grandview and all of Cass and Ray Counties MO
Aug 26 Tour, Johnson County KS: Includes Leawood, Overland Park, Louisburg, Ottawa, Lawrence, Olathe and surrounding areas
Tickets for the tour are available for an unbeatable price of just $10. Whether you want to explore one or all of our tours, the cost remains the same. Plus, children under 14 can join the fun for free! To secure your tickets, simply head over to kcwatergardens.com/2023. tour and click the link to purchase them through Eventbrite. Alternatively, you can also purchase tour booklets/tickets from select garden centers and other retail outlets.
Our exclusive Lotus Entertain You Water Garden Tour serves as a crucial fundraising event which funds the construction of ponds at schools and other nonprofits. With an impressive track record of successfully building and maintaining over 60 captivating water features, your support provides the community with opportunities to experience nature. Mark your calendar and prepare to be thoroughly entertained!
What needs to be done in the rose garden in August? Water, preventive spraying, final fertilization, and deadheading.
Our roses are in the midst of the challenges of a hot, dry summer. If they are managed well during this time, they will reward us with a beautiful fall bloom cycle.
Water is the most important need for the roses during the hot, dry months. A minimum of one inch of water a week is needed. In hot, windy conditions even more is needed. Water deeply, the soil should be moist six to eight inches deep after watering. Hand watering with a waterwand or watering with a drip system are preferred to overhead watering.
Be on the lookout for blackspot. It may be worse in the fall than in the spring. A preventive spraying program should be continued on a regular 10- to 14-day schedule if your roses are susceptible. Spraying for insect pests should be only as needed. Most of the time pest damage is only aesthetic and does not require chemical control.
The last fertilization of the season, if desired, should be no later than mid-August. Fertilization promotes growth, so fertilization any later in the season interferes with the need for the roses to ready themselves for winter.
Continue removing spent blooms, deadheading, to encourage reblooming in the fall. Side buds may be removed from around new flower buds, so the flowers are bigger.
Why do some canes have holes in them? Several different wasps and bees lay eggs in the pith of cut rose canes. Once the eggs hatch, the larvae bore a hole down the middle of the pith to make their nests. The larvae are active for about two weeks before going dormant and then emerging as an adult. The damaged rose canes will die. Any canes with borer damage should be cut below the borer hole. To prevent cane borers, all pruning cuts and deadheading cuts should be sealed with water resistant or water proof carpenters glue or finger nail polish.
More information about rose care can be found by clicking on the Rose Info tab on our webpage kansascityrosesociety.org. Send rose care questions to kcrosehelp@gmail.com.
Raytown Garden Club
Tues, Aug 1, 10a; at Connection Point Church, 10500 E 350 Hwy, Raytown, MO 64138. Program will be “Area Garden Report of Butterflies, Birds and Those Amazing Little Hummers” by Nancy Huffman, club member and WCD Birds/Butterflies/ Hummingbirds Sanctuaries & Conservation Chairman. Guests are always welcome. For more information please check out our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/RaytownGardenClub
Birth of a Garden—No Till Method
Wed, Aug 2, 6:30p; at Basehor Community Library, 1400, 158th St, Basehor, KS 66007. If you have a spot in your yard that is begging for a garden plot but you dread the idea of removing sod, tilling the soil and all the prep required, this presentation is for you! From tips on site selection to plot design and creation, you will be guided thru a step by step process to turn that special space into a thing of beauty. The presenter is Joseph O’Neill, a Leavenworth County Master Gardener. The meeting is free and open to the public. For more information contact the Leavenworth County Extension office at 913-364-5700.
Festival Nights: Japan
Aug 5 | 6-9p; at Powell Gardens. Celebrate butterflies across cultures during Festival Nights (Saturdays during Festival of Butterflies, 9a-9p)! Celebrate Festival Nights: Japan, a signature ticketed event. Tatsumaki Yosakoi will perform and host a small workshop at the Missouri Barn during the event. The ticketed event includes two drinks (alcoholic or non-alcoholic) and performances. A traditional hibachi plate dinner will be available for purchase at the event. See Events at powellgardens.org.
Kansas City Cactus and Succulent Society
Sat, Aug 5, 9a-3p; at the Trailside Center, 9901 Holmes Rd, Kansas City, MO. Join us for our annual sale of cactus and succulent plants and beautifully made pottery.
Greater Kansas City Iris Society Plant Sale
Sat, Aug 12, 10a to 3p; at NEW LOCATION
Colonial Church, 7039 Mission Rd, Prairie Village, KS. Bearded Iris in a variety of classes will be available for sale.
Second Saturday at Powell Gardens
Sat, Aug 12, 9a-9p.
On Second Saturdays (March-October), Powell Gardens is open late! Take advantage of extended hours and visit between 9a and 9p. On Aug 12, visit Powell Gardens for a relaxing sunset evening on the patio of the Missouri Barn. Live music from Garrett Childers (5-8p) make it a special after-hours experience in the Gardens. Charcuterie boxes, cocktails, wine, and snacks will be available for purchase. Admission to the evening music is included with general admission. See powellgardens.org for more details.
“Look Ma’, No Soil”: The Advantages and Techniques of Hydroponics
Thurs, Aug 17, 7p; at Leavenworth Public Library, 417 Spruce St, Leavenworth, KS 66048. Mark Sorensen, a Leavenworth County Master Gardener will present an interactive workshop that will cover the advantages of hydroponics; such as, the ability to garden year round and minimize pest problems. What kind of plants do well in hydroponics....How to fertilize... How much does growing with hydroponics cost? The present-
er will bring hydroponic units to show. The meeting is free and open to the public. For more information contact the Leavenworth County Extension office at 913-364-5700.
Dahlia Shows
The Greater Kansas City Dahlia Society announces this year’s show schedule: Missouri State Fair Aug 18-19; Powell Gardens Sep 1-2; Suburban Lawn and Garden Sep 29-30 (135 & Wornall Rd, KCMO). For more information on shows, or regular meetings held at the Anita B Gorman Conservation center, see our website www.kcdahlia. org or e-mail: greaterkcdahlia@gmail.com.
Mo-Kan Daylily Society Plant Sale
Sat, Aug 26, 8:30a-3:30p or until sold out; at Loose Park Garden Center, 51st and Wornall, Kansas City, MO. There will be hundreds of different bare root daylilies, including a variety of colors, shapes, patterns, heights, and bloom sizes. Pictures and descriptions will be displayed to help in your selection. If you want to learn how to plant and care for your daylilies, there will be a Planting Corner with demonstrations, tips, and educational handouts. All plants have been grown locally in members’ gardens. Payment by cash and credit cards. Mo-Kan members available to answer questions.
Save the Date! MdCEMG Garden Tour
Sep 8 & 9 Marais de Cygne Extension Master Gardeners will be showcasing six unique gardens in Louisburg, Spring Hill and Paola area for the September to Remember Garden Tour. Look for Rattlesnake Master and Compass forbs, stunning Elephant Ears, Catalpa, Corkscrew Willow and Harry Potter Trees, garden art, monarch waystation, and numerous water features and vendors at each garden. Admission for both days is $20.00 with visitation 9a-5p each day. See article on page 6 for more information.
Save the Date Flower Farm Day
Sat, Sep 9; at Homeplace Fields Flower Farm, St Joseph, MO. Mark your calendars for our 3rd annual Flower Farm Day with Nesting Goods. Food, music, shopping and more. Fun for the whole family. Lynn Windmeyer 816294-6024, homeplacefields@gmail.com.
Save the Date for Terra Luna
Mark your calendars! Terra Luna is returning to the Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens this fall for two magical weekends only, Sep 14-16 & 21-23. Tickets will go on sale Aug 1!
Leawood Garden Club
Tues, Sep 26, 12-1p; at Cure of Ars Catholic Church, 9401 Mission Rd, Leawood, KS 66203. “Managing Our Clay Soil for Greater Success”. Do you moan and groan our clay soil? Clay is the most nutrient rich soil and yes, we have lots of it. Once you understand the why and how to manage it, you’ll come to love it...well, at least not hate it. Nancy Chapman, Johnson County Extension Master Gardener, raised in Los Angeles, in 1976 Nancy returned to her Kansas roots and received a degree in Agricultural Economics from Kansas State University. She’s been an Extension Master Gardener volunteer since 2007 and a member of the EMG Speakers Bureau for over 10 years. She helps steward a Giving Grove fruit tree orchard in KCMO’s Spring Valley Park. Orchards are planted in food insecure neighborhoods and the fruit is free to pick.
• Fertilize mums, hardy asters and other fallblooming perennials.
• Apply about 1 to 1 ½ inches of water per week to Bluegrass to remain spring green.
• Apply about 1 inch of water per week to a tall fescue lawn.
• Apply the last application of fertilizer to zoysia by mid-month.
• Be on the lookout for grubs and apply proper control methods.
• Plan for fall renovation projects such as aerating and seeding.
• Check sharpness of mower blade and repair.
• Mow turf as needed depending on summer growth.
• Treat unwanted zoysia and Bermuda grass.
• Take a soil test to determine fertility program.
• Apply 1 to 1 ½ inches of water per week to gardens.
• Divide iris and daylilies during dormant period through early August.
• Make last application of fertilizer to roses by mid-month.
• Control black spot and other rose diseases.
• Deadhead annuals to encourage late season blooms.
• Cut back and fertilize annuals to produce new growth and fall blooms.
• Sow hollyhocks, poppies and larkspur for spring blooms.
• Prepare for fall bulb planting by making orders or researching varieties.
• Take cuttings from geraniums and begonias for wintering indoors.
• Water about 1 inch per week.
• Plant a fall garden, beets, carrots, beans, and turnips for autumn harvest.
• Plant transplants of broccoli, cauliflower, or 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 bed for flower bud development, improving yields next spring.
MY GARDEN (Use this space to list additional tasks to accomplish in your garden.)
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• Turn compost pile and add water when dry.
• Keep weeds under control to reduce problems next year.
• Water young trees every one to two weeks by deeply soaking the root system.
• Prune and shape hedges.
• Check mulch layer and replenish if needed.
• Prune broken, dead or crossing limbs for healthier plants.
• Check young trees and shrubs for girdling wires and ropes for planting.
• Avoid fertilizing ornamentals now, so they harden off before winter.
• Remove bagworms by handpicking.
• Water summered houseplants regularly and fertilize to promote growth.
• Check plants for insects such as scales, aphids, and spider mites.
• Wash plants to remove dust layer.
• 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.
CASS COUNTY
816-380-8494; Wed, 9am-noon
DOUGLAS COUNTY
785-843-7058; dgcogardenhotline@gmail.com; Mon, Wed, Fri, 1-4pm
GREATER KANSAS CITY MISSOURI AREA
816-833-8733 (TREE); Mon-Fri, 9am-noon; mggkc.hotline@gmail.com
JOHNSON COUNTY, KS
913-715-7050; Mon-Fri, 9am-4pm; garden.help@jocogov.org
JOHNSON COUNTY, MO 660-747-3193; Wed, 9am-noon
LEAVENWORTH COUNTY
913-364-5700; Leave a message. A Master Gardener will contact you.
MIAMI COUNTY & LINN COUNTY
913-294-4306; Thurs, 8am-noon
WYANDOTTE COUNTY
913-299-9300; Mon, Wed, Fri, 9am-4pm
QUESTIONS ABOUT ROSES?
Ask a Rosarian; kcrosehelp@gmail.com; www.kansascityrosesociety.org
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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
