KCG FEB24 by The Kansas City Gardener

The Kansas City

GARDENER February 2024 | kcgmag.com

Rebuild Bird Habitat Fearless Gardeners | Rose Report, What would Charlie tell us Plants on Your Plate—Avocado | Ask the Experts | MGGKC Help You Grow

editor’s notes

The Kansas City

GARDENER Independently owned and operated since 1996 PUBLISHER Michael Cavanaugh EDITOR Elizabeth Cavanaugh CONTRIBUTORS Dennis Patton Tamra Reall Anthony Reardon Corinda Stallbaumer Elizabeth Stoakes Denise Sullivan Scott Woodbury DISTRIBUTION Publishers Delivery Solutions, Inc. IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO DISTRIBUTE the magazine at your place of business, please contact Mike Cavanaugh at mike@kcgmag.com 913-648-4728 NEED MORE MAGAZINES? mike@kcgmag.com 913-648-4728 CONTACT US P.O. Box 8725 Prairie Village, KS 66208 913-648-4728 ADVERTISING Mike Cavanaugh at mike@kcgmag.com 913-648-4728

The Season of Learning

hile sitting at my computer preparing to write this column, I suddenly remembered that I was out of coffee. It was evening and I was thinking about the next day. It’s funny how those random thoughts pop into your head, especially at the most inopportune time. Name it procrastination, or maybe it’s a lack of focus. For me it was a distraction easily managed. Because dear friends, a morning without coffee renders an unpleasant result, and I’d like to avoid that whenever possible. Besides, how long could it possibly take? I’ll just run to the grocery store—in and out. Then I can put that matter to bed; cross it off my list. No more distractions. All went according to plan until I came upon the storefront display in the floral department. Always eye-catching and seasonal, this array of plants gave me pause. Arranged at eye-level, it was unavoidable. New arrivals were fresh calla lilies in assorted colors like lavender, yellow, and white. A welcome hint of spring. I had no interest in purchasing plants at that time. Nevertheless, it was the bright, colorful display that gave a much-needed boost to my frame of mind. I needed that shift from merely surviving winter to actually thriving. And after enduring recent below-zero

EDITORIAL Elizabeth Cavanaugh elizabeth@kcgmag.com 913-648-4728

WEBSITE kcgmag.com

also gain enthusiasm. Plus, nothing beats an in-person social gathering. Are you like me? Do you get antsy this time of year? Is there something you’ve been trying to learn, but you need the advantage of taking a class? Make this season the time for learning. Classes and seminars are available to gardeners throughout the metro. Whether at the community college or at your favorite garden center, professionals offer their knowledge and expertise. Take a class. Join a garden club. Build your gardening repertoire. It’s waiting to be discovered. And whatever the topic, let’s never miss an opportunity to make a new friend. I’ll see you in the garden!

In this issue

February 2024 | kcgmag.com

HOW TO SUBSCRIBE See details on page 19. SUBSCRIPTION Elizabeth Cavanaugh elizabeth@kcgmag.com 913-648-4728

temperatures, that encounter was a much-needed boost, indeed. The gray skies and arctic wind marked this winter for the ages. Record-breaking I think was the word. No matter what you label it, when pets must be kept inside and you should avoid bear skin when outside, that sucks all the fun out of winter. I like walking in the snow on a crisp winter day as much as the next person. Not at the risk of frostbite however. So once the bird feeders are filled and the heated bird bath is refreshed, these winter days find me in a learning state of mind. In winter the pace of gardening slows, I turn my attention to another beloved hobby—knitting. Like gardening, my projects aren’t fancy or too complicated. Especially since there are long stretches when I may not pick up my needles, and may need to relearn a stitch. Beyond changing that behavior of inconsistency, there is plenty on the topic still unfamiliar to me. Being left-handed presents a unique set of challenges as well. So far, thanks to video tutorials available on the internet, I’m able to overcome any problem and move forward. Also like gardening, there are classes and workshops available. With a little instruction, not only am I able to master this leisure activity, but

4 6 8 10 12 14

Ask the Experts Kids Ask Dr. Bug Plants on Your Plate–Avocado Rebuild Bird Habitat Rose Report Fearless Gardeners

15 16 17 18 19 19

MGGKC Help You Learn to Grow Upcoming Garden Events Groovy Garden Show Garden Calendar K-State Garden Hour Subscribe

About the cover: Provided there is enough food, Cedar Waxwings stay in our area year round. Learn more about birds and their habitat beginning on page 10. CORRECTION: In “Birds Vs. Winter” (November 2023), the Red-breasted Nuthatch photo was incorrectly identified as a White-breasted Nuthatch. 2

February 2024 | kcgmag.com

WE HAVE 3 GREENHOUSES FULL OF REASONS TO LOVE

FEBRUARY!

Find the perfect Valentine's Day gift and find new reasons to love the month of February at Family Tree Nursery. Step out of the cold and into our warm tropical greenhouses this winter. Visit us today.

OVERLAND PARK, KS | SHAWNEE, KS | LIBERTY, MO FAMILYTREENURSERY.COM The Kansas City Gardener | February 2024

Ask the Experts SEED STARTING TIPS Question: I am starting seeds indoors this season for my vegetable garden. Do you have any tips for success? Anthony’s Answer: The most critical growing factors to account for when starting seeds indoors include the timing of seedlings, growing media utilized, water availability, and temperature. Applying some research or a quick read of your seed labels, subtract the time needed to grow the plants to adequate transplant size from the date of the intended transplant. This will give you the optimal time to sow the seeds, preventing the plants from being too small or overgrown when transferred. Looking at growing media and water availability, the two somewhat go hand-in-hand. Growing medium that is too dense will make the seedlings prone to a lethal condition known as “damping off” due to too much water, and media that is too porous will leave the seedlings prone to drying out due to lack of water. Ideally, the media will have lighter-weight components, such as coconut coir, peat moss, wood fibers, vermiculite, perlite, and sand. Then, when watering itself, a clear plastic cover over the seeds can assist in keeping them moist enough to germinate without overwatering them. While cool-season crops will be less picky with germination temperatures, warm-season crops will require 70-85 degrees Fahrenheit to germinate. As these temperatures are much higher than those of an average household, heating mats or UV lamps will be necessary if a direct-sun window isn’t available. FERTILIZE FOR PLANT GROWTH, NOT SALVATION Question: Do I need a special fertilizer for my rhododendrons and azaleas? Should I apply it in February? Dennis’ Answer: If I am selling you fertilizer, the answer is yes.

But all you need is a general plant food that can be used on just about every plant in the garden. Each established plant probably needs no more than a quarter cup, or so I would say, either when growth begins in the spring or just after flowering.

outdoor conditions so they don’t experience fatal transplant shock from a sudden drastic change in growing conditions. Beginning around two weeks before the plants are transplanted, introduce them daily to the outdoor elements for a few hours in a pro-

Hardening off vegetable transplants is crucial for success. Keep this in mind. Fertilizer may not be needed if the plants are growing strong and healthy. Also, fertilizer does not make an unhappy plant happy or correct issues with location, drainage, or other factors. It can help healthy plants grow bigger and stronger; however, fertilizers can also make a sick plant suffer more. Fertilizers are a tool for plant growth, not salvation. They do not perform magic! SUCCESSFUL SEEDLING TRANSPLANT Question: My indoor starter plants always die when I put them in the ground. What am I doing wrong? Anthony’s Answer: A crucial aspect of the success of transplanted seedlings is a process known as “hardening off.” This is done by gradually introducing seedlings to

tected area, gradually increasing the amount of time they spend outdoors. By doing this, the fluctuations in light, temperature, wind, and humidity will not be as foreign to the plants, and they will be more apt to survive the conditions once permanently outdoors. CARING FOR VALENTINE’S DAY ROSES Question: What can I do to make my Valentine’s roses last? Many times, the buds droop and die before they even open. Dennis’Answer: Who wouldn’t like to receive a bouquet of longstemmed roses? But right there is part of the issue. The longer the stem, the harder the cut and dying flower must work to move water against gravity. Shorter stems last longer as the flower does not need

to work as hard to keep the plant tissue hydrated. Recut the stems every day or so, which shortens the distance for the water to travel and keeps the veins open. Keep the water fresh and use floral preservatives that help reduce bacteria and increase the shelf life. Lastly, when not enjoying the roses, keep them in a cooler location to slow down the aging process. Even with all these tips a week or so is probably the best you can expect. START VEGETABLE GARDEN SOON Question: I’m itching to get my vegetable garden started. Are there any plants I can get into the ground soon? Anthony’s Answer: Though it may only be February, the beginning of the growing season is just around the corner! A handful of hearty cool-season crops can be sown in the second week of March. These plants include asparagus, rhubarb, leeks, lettuce, and peas. Asparagus and rhubarb are perennial crops, so be sure to allocate these plants to a location where you don’t mind them being permanent fixtures. The edge of your vegetable garden will typically be ideal for this, as it will prevent the interference of the plants during annual tillage. You will also want to plant plump, healthy crowns as the source plants, which can typically be sourced via a local garden center. Depending on the year’s growing conditions, leeks, lettuce, and peas may also be sown in early March. The key to success with these will lie in the selection and the characteristics of those varieties being able to address the season’s challenges. This may include highly cool-tolerant lettuce varieties (they don’t respond well to frost), quick-developing leek varieties (they prefer a long cool season), and powdery mildew-resistant pea varieties (they don’t like prolonged wetness).

DENNIS PATTON |Horticulture Agents | ANTHONY REARDON 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.

February 2024 | kcgmag.com

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Kids Ask Dr. Bug

about the curious things found in the garden When will we start seeing butterflies again? As the days lengthen, temperatures rise, and flowers begin to bloom, butterflies gradually reappear. Different butterfly species emerge at varying times. Some may flutter as early as March or April, while others wait for warmer weather and abundant flower nectar. Butterflies adopt different strategies to survive winter, either as eggs, caterpillars, pupae (known as chrysalises), or adults. They seek refuge in protected spots like under leaves, in tree crevices, under bark, or in sheds. As temperatures climb, they emerge, seeking flowers for food and places to lay eggs. Certain butterflies depend on specific flowers, appearing only when those plants bloom. For instance, Monarch caterpillars solely feed on milkweed, though as adult butterflies, they sip nectar from various flowers. This means they seek milkweed to lay eggs but linger longer if other flowers are available. So, keep your eyes open! Once consistently warm weather arrives, these vibrant creatures will dance around in gardens, parks, and even your backyard. By planting flowers that attract butterflies, you might create your own butterfly haven, encouraging them to visit. Can bugs see me? Insects perceive the world around them in fascinating ways, different from how we do! Most insects might sense you as part of their environment, but they don’t see you in the same way we see each other. Insect eyes are intriguing—typically, they typically have two compound eyes made up of tiny parts called ommatidia. The size of these compound eyes can vary; for instance, an ant has fewer ommatidia than a dragonfly. This

means an ant’s compound eyes are smaller, while a dragonfly’s larger eyes allow it to see more at a time, which is especially useful when hunting while flying. Additionally, many insects have three simpler eyes on their heads called ocelli, which sense light and dark, or even polarized light, helping insects orient themselves and find their way. Some insects, like butterflies and bees, have extraordinary eye-

February 2024 | kcgmag.com

Can ants swim? Ants might not swim like we do, but they’re pretty clever when it comes to water! They have tiny

A close-up view of an insect’s eye where each tiny bump is called an ‘ommatidium.’ When all these bumps team up, they make what’s called a ‘compound eye,’ helping the insect see lots of things around them. Image by Woodturner, Pixabay. sight for arthropods They can distinguish shapes and colors, even colors invisible to us. If you’re in their way, wearing colors resembling flowers, or carrying something attractive such as food, they might notice you or even land on you. However, insects like ants or certain beetles perceive the world through shadows or movements rather than detailed images. Beyond eyesight, insects have incredible sensing abilities. Mosquitoes rely on detecting carbon dioxide and heat to ‘see’ you. Others use their antennae to feel air vibrations or detect heat and chemicals

TAMRA REALL Horticulture Specialist 6

(known as pheromones) to navigate their surroundings. In short, insects might not see us in high definition, but their impressive senses allow them to detect our presence in their own unique and intriguing ways.

hairs on their bodies and because they’re so small and light, the surface tension of water helps them stay on the surface without sinking. But when there’s a flood, the whole ant colony needs to stick together. They hold onto each other using their legs, antennae, and even their mouths, creating what’s called an ‘ant raft.’ The ants at the bottom support the ones above, keeping them safe until they find dry ground. They’re so good at this that they can live like this for weeks! Sometimes, when ants need to cross water, they use the same linking skill to create bridges. It’s

all about teamwork! Check out this link for more information: https://b.gatech.edu/ 48JM6ZB. So, even though ants don’t swim like we do, they’ve got incredible skills to handle water and keep themselves safe when things get wet. What can we do to help insects during the winter? Helping insects during winter is fun and easy to do! One of the easiest things to do is to leave leaves in your yard. Think of leaves as a cozy blanket for insects—they use them to stay warm and protected from the cold, rain, and snow. Another great way to help is by keeping parts of your garden a little messy. It might sound funny, but having areas with old logs, twigs, or piles of leaves gives insects hiding spots to stay warm. Letting plant stems stand tall provides hiding places, almost like tiny hotels, especially for native bees that lay their eggs in these stems. Leaving them intact offers shelter until it gets warmer, helping the bees without putting them at risk from pests that might invade containers where we keep these stems. By doing these simple things, you’re giving insects a helping hand to stay safe and cozy until spring returns. Did you know that there is a Kids Ask Dr. Bug video series? Check it out! https://bit.ly/KADBvideos 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.

Dr. Tamra Reall (@MUExtBugN Garden) is the 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.

Discuss how to add

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Symoposium Speakers Irvine Ettiene

Horticulturalist and garden designer at The Garden at Newfields at the Indianapolis Museum of Art

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Conservationist who led the transformation of the Susan Lordi Marker Native Plant Garden at Powell Gardens, showcasing the beauty of our region’s flora and formalized landscape design

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Garden Design Workshop Friday, March 15 University instructor Lisa Nunamker will lead a class on “The Garden Room Method.”

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The Neighborhood Tourism and Development Fund of Kansas City, Mo., is helping fund the 2024 Symposium.

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GardenersConnect.org/Symposium The Kansas City Gardener | February 2024

PLANTS ON YOUR PLATE Avocado with a banana, whereby the ethylene gas in the banana will speed up ripening. When ripe, avocados will feel slightly soft when squeezed. The flesh of avocados will quickly turn brown once exposed to air, and although unappetizing to see, the brown flesh is perfectly safe and edible. There are tips to slow or reduce browning after cutting into an avocado: • Cover the flesh with lemon or lime juice and wrap tightly with plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator to reduce

oxygen exposure. • Store an avocado half with some sliced onion in a sealed airtight container; the sulfur compounds in the onion help preserve the avocado. While the most common use of avocados is the classic guacamole, there are numerous other uses for this tasty fruit-vegetable. Try toasting a slice of your favorite crusty bread and top with sliced avocado and a fried egg. Or try this simple smoothie for breakfast on the go.

Avocado Smoothie MAKES 2 SERVINGS

INGREDIENTS

Midwest winter means few to no options for locally grown produce. Unless there are hothouse grown options, this is the time of year that I fully rely on those states like Florida, Texas or California that have much longer and more consistent growing seasons. One of my favorites this time of year (or year round for that matter) is avocados. Botanically speaking, avocados are a fruit, and if you want to get really specific, botanists will tell you they are a berry and are a member of the Lauraceae family of flowering plants. Avocados are native to south-central Mexico and were a staple food in Aztec culture and were introduced to California in the mid 1800s. Avocados are classified into three different categories: Mexican, Guatemalan and Caribbean. The popular Haas variety, grown in California, is a Mexican-

Guatemalan hybrid that has a thick pebbly skin. Typical Florida varieties are Caribbean and Guatemalan-Caribbean hybrids that have a smooth to slightly pebbled skin. Avocados are a good source of fiber and contain more fat than carbohydrates, but it is unsaturated fat, which is often referred to as the good type of fat. These heartfriendly fats do not increase blood cholesterol and can provide appetite satiety on a traditional cholesterollowering diet. This nutritional profile fits well with healthful dietary patterns such as the Mediterranean and DASH (Dietary Approach to Stop Hypertension) diets. Avocados are usually sold while the flesh is unripe and hard, which will typically ripen in 2-3 days. You can leave the fruit at room temperature, or place in direct sunlight to speed ripening. You can also place the avocado sealed in a paper bag

DENISE SULLIVAN Nutrition Ninja 8

February 2024 | kcgmag.com

1 medium avocado 1 medium ripe banana 1 cup blueberries 1 ½ cups unsweetened almond milk 1 tablespoon honey 1 teaspoon vanilla ½ cup crushed ice (or more for desired consistency)

DIRECTIONS

• Wash hands, work surfaces and fresh produce. • Combine all ingredients in a blender container and process until smooth. • Enjoy!

NUTRITION INFORMATION

Calories: 194, Total Fat:4.5g, Saturated Fat: 0g, Sodium: 107mg, Carbohydrates: 38g, Fiber: 3.5g, Protein: 2.5g Recipe adapted from allrecipes.com, analyzed by verywellfit.com.

Denise Sullivan is a retired Nutrition and Health Education Specialist, with 38 years of experience in the Missouri, Kansas, and Texas Cooperative Extension Systems.

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Hosted by Douglas County Extension Master Gardeners Building 21, Douglas County Fairgrounds, 2110 Harper St, Lawrence, KS Hosted by Douglas County Extension Master Gardeners

Building 21, Douglas County Fairgrounds K-State Research and Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer. 2110 Harper St, Lawrence, KSKansas State University is committed to making its services, activities, and programs accessible to all participants. If you have special requirements due to a physical, vision, or hearing disability, contact Sharon Ashworth, 785-843-7058.

The Kansas City Gardener | February 2024

Rebuild Bird Habitat appy New Year! I hope you were able to “Take time to ENJOY the birds” in 2023. For 2024, I say, “Resolve to add plants to your garden that FEED the birds.” Why? In 2019, a bombshell report stunned scientists, birders and even the general public. Researchers from seven institutions analyzed decades of bird census data and reached the heartbreaking conclusion that North America had lost almost 3 billion birds since 1970 (1 of every 4 birds!). Every bird group, from colorful warblers and orioles to “common” species of finches, blackbirds, and sparrows, experienced significant declines. All birds are at risk and urgently need help; time to reverse losses is running out. Ken Rosenberg of Cornell University wrote: “Our human-altered landscapes are losing their ability to support bird life.” The authors agreed that habitat loss is a major factor underlying shrinking populations. What is “habitat” anyway? For birds, it’s not merely empty spaces to live and nest, but also water and food sources. Eating is arguably the main focus of their lives. Birds eat constantly to fuel migration and store fat for winter survival. They collect extra food in summer to raise offspring. Inevitably, less food = fewer birds. Now, the good news: plant lovers can save the day! Plants feed birds directly, by producing nuts, seeds, berries, and nectar; and indirectly, by nourishing protein-rich insects. In Nature’s Best Hope, Doug Tallamy maintains that at least 70% of the plants around us must be native species to sustain our ecosystems. Our gardens and public spaces, properly managed, can become “Homegrown National Parks” in lieu of wild areas now gone forever.

Why are native fruits healthier for birds? Most native berries are fat-rich (35-50%, depending on the species). Nonnatives tend to be high in carbohydrates but low in fat and carotenoid compounds. For example, the fruits of Japanese Honeysuckle and Multiflora Rose contain less than 1% fat! Birds

1 know what they need—studies have shown that birds prefer native fruits, even when nonnatives are readily available. Our area boasts several dozen species of hardy, low-maintenance, “bird-friendly” fruit-bearing trees and shrubs. Many fit into small spaces and can be pruned to shape. Some develop dense thickets of attractive foliage that conceal nests, giving shelter as well as food. (Some, like elderberry, produce fruits edible by humans.) Their beautiful flowers appear between March and June, nourishing hummingbirds and pollinators. Abundant fruits mature in late summer and fall and remain into winter, adding color to the landscape. Let’s examine some outstanding candidates that can kick-start your “bird garden” and bring you a bountiful crop of new species! Red Mulberry (Morus rubra),

ELIZABETH STOAKES Birding Enthusiast 10

February 2024 | kcgmag.com

and Fragrant Sumac (Rhus aromatica), are summer superstars. Breeding birds, such as Summer Tanagers and Baltimore Orioles, snack on juicy mulberries while hunting insects to feed their chicks. Later, fledglings feed on ripening sumac berries. Omnivorous birds (such as thrashers, jays, and crows), All photos by Terrence Thompson.

Plant natives in your landscape to benefit birds

seed eaters like cardinals, and even woodpeckers enjoy a variety of seasonal fruits. Viburnums, especially Arrowwood (V. dentatum) and Black Haw (V. prunifolium) produce “superfood.” Their purplish berries contain 48% fat, plus carbohydrates and antioxidants to sustain birds during the stress of migration and fall molting. You won’t go wrong with dogwoods or serviceberry trees. Serviceberry (Amelanchier arborea) is an excellent replacement for nonnative Callery Pear trees. Fruits of Flowering Dogwood (Cornus florida) and Rough-leaved Dogwood (C. drummondii) are beloved by many birds, including tiny, hyperactive Yellow-rumped Warblers. Our only “winter warbler” survives by replacing its summer insect diet with assorted berries. American Robins and Eastern

Bluebirds also rely heavily on fruits in cold months. They remain all year, unless food becomes scarce or temperatures plummet. Watch closely and you may discover Cedar Waxwings among the robins! No nature lover should miss these gorgeous birds, sporting sleek tan bodies, black masks, red wing tips, and bright yellow tail bars. Fruit is their primary diet year-round. All three species relish native crabapples, cherries, chokeberries, and hollies. Food plants for birds can be integrated into almost any existing landscape, and even one tree or shrub can make a world of difference for years to come. Missouri’s State Forest Nursery (www.mdc.mo.gov/seedlings) is an economical source of trees and shrubs. Share a few seedlings with friends! Download a wide selection of native bird garden plans (courtesy of Missouri Prairie Foundation) at http://grownative.org. Please contact BAS to request a “Native Plants for the Birds Index List” (specify paper or electronic format). This document contains more than 100 species of grasses, flowers, vines, trees and shrubs that provide nesting materials, food, and shelter. Wishing everyone a successful gardening season, and many joyous bird sightings! Identify the birds in photos.

1. N ashville Warbler fattens up on Roughleaved Dogwood berries during fall migration. 2. Yellow-rumped Warblers survive winter eating fruit. 3. B lue Jays know oaks are a valuable food source. 4. A fledgling Gray Catbird discovers sumac fruits. 5. Brown Thrasher enjoys autumn dogwood berries. 6. A male Summer Tanager harvests juicy summer mulberries. 7. Plants = insects = birds: female Orchard Oriole with moth caterpillar. 8. Cedar Waxwings love wild fruits such as Black Cherries and chokeberries.

Elizabeth Stoakes is currently President of Burroughs Audubon Society in Kansas City and has been birding for over 25 years. Please contact BAS via mail@burroughs.org or text/call 816-795-8177 with any birding questions.

8 The Kansas City Gardener | February 2024

February Rose Report

What would Charlie tell us to do? All photos by Corinda Stallbaumer.

or many years, I would venture over to Moffet Nursery in St. Joseph, Missouri in February to visit with Charles Anctil about roses for the next year and commiserate over what happened last year. Since I live in St. Joseph, it wasn’t a long trip. Charlie, as I knew him, would always answer any questions I had plus be very willing to give advice when asked. Other than his normal comments of “Did you plant the green side up?” and “You should always read the label for the chemical before you spray, not after!” I learned many things about the care of roses. Since Charlie left this world in 2017, Bob Stubblefield and I constantly comment to each other, “What would Charlie say?” So, what would Charlie say about February Rose Care? Probably, something like “Sit back and wait!” However, when pushed, these are his words of wisdom that I follow for February Rose Care. If it has been a dry winter with no snow or rain, give the roses a good watering when the temperature is well above freezing. That happens a lot here. Remember when watering only apply water to the rose base. It is also time to check for any animals that have invaded under the protection. If it gets very warm and the roses try to start growing, apply more covering. Anything that grows in February will probably freeze later and could damage or even kill the plant. The constant freeze and thaw and dry weather of Missouri winters can cause the ground to crack and open the roots to freezing. February is also the time to reflect on what worked last season and to plan for the next season. This is also a good time for education about roses and their care. There are many resources available. I have noted some at the end of this article. This year I am going to try to learn how to pot up

About Face

Wyeth-Tootle Mansion Memorial Rose Garden Spring

Wyeth-Tootle Mansion Memorial Rose Garden Winter

bareroot roses. My understanding is this normally starts sometime in February. I will be spending time working with Bob Stubblefield at Moffet Nursery for this project. I should know a lot more by February of 2025! I tend a public rose garden that is associated with the St. Joseph Museums. The Wyeth-Tootle Mansion Rose Garden is a memorial garden of roses that have been donated to the garden primarily by two rosarians. The estate of John Moody donated 18 roses in 2012. The estate of Charles Anctil donated 8 roses in 2018. Other roses have been donated in honor or memory of other individuals. Currently there are 31 roses growing in the garden. Included with this

article are photos of the garden and specific roses. Most plants are either tea roses or floribundas. There is one climber, New Dawn, that has been donated and is still getting over the transplant. I have great plans for it when it gets happier. Three roses grown in the garden include a beautiful pink rose called Here’s Sam, a red rose with a yellow reverse (outside of each petal is different then the inside) called Snazzy (more commonly know as Ketchup and Mustard), and a large red rose originally named Liebeszauber (now called Love’s Magic). This rose bush grows to almost 6 feet tall and has blooms that can be 4, sometimes even 5 inches in diameter. The history of the roses is almost as much fun as their beauty.

CORINDA STALLBAUMER Consulting Rosarian 12

February 2024 | kcgmag.com

Here’s Sam

Snazzy The Wyeth-Tootle Mansion is an historic house first built by the Wyeth family in 1879. It is in a national historic district in an urban location. It is a great example of how to educate people about the advantages of green spaces, and the joy gained by a flower garden. A full YouTube documentary of the rose garden can be found at https://youtu.be/ YayrkHcHmMk or accessed using this QR code. Additional information on rose care can be found on the internet: • The Kansas City Rose Society website https://www.kansascityrosesociety.org • American Rose Society website https://www.rose.org • Laura Conyers Smith Municipal Rose Garden https://www. kcrsroselibrary.com. • Help with specific questions contact kcrosehelp@gmail.com. A special event is planned for March 23, 2024, 10 a.m. to noon, at Loose Park Garden Center, “Easy Care Backyard Rose Gardening,” by Jerry Dreyer, American Rose Society Consulting Rosarian with the Kansas City Rose Society. Jerry will discuss basic steps for success in growing roses in Kansas City, and which roses thrive with minimal care.

Corinda Stallbaumer is an American Rose Society Consulting Rosarian and a Buchanan County Missouri Master Gardener. A native of Kansas City and a graduate of KU. Her philosophy is the same for roses as it was for her career in information systems; never stop learning!

FLOWER, HOME & GARDEN SHOW Saturday, March 23, 2024 10 a.m.–4 p.m.

Heritage Event & Arts Center • 109 Delaware St, Leavenworth, KS 66048 (913) 682-2122 • www.heritagecenter-leavenworth.com

Admission $2 per person

Join us and enter to win 50/50 Raffle and Door Prizes Leavenworth County Master Gardeners

will be making presentations throughout the event.

Join us for a fun-filled and informative event! Show features flowers, plants, home décor and garden equipment.

8th Annual Garden Symposium

Gardening by Design

Inspirations:

Why Do You Garden? February 17th, 2024 9:00 to 3:45

Registration Opens at 8:30

Living Proof Church 32401 Harmony Rd, Paola, KS 66071 Tickets are $45.00 per person. Seating is Limited! Pre-registration is required by February 1st This event is open to all!

The registration fee includes: A gourmet boxed lunch, snacks, and all printed reference materials.

Register on line at: https://tinyurl.com/2024MdCEMGSymposium Payment can be made on line or by check. (Please see details at time of registration.)

You can also find the link on our Facebook page at: www.facebook.com/mdcemg Presented by:

Kansas State University is committed to making its services, activities and programs accessible to all participants. If you have special requirements due to a physical, vision, or hearing disability, contact the Marais des Cygnes Extension District at 913-294-4306. Kansas State University Agricultural Experiment Station and Cooperative Extension Service K-State Research and Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

Serving Kansas City – Since 1993 –

5 locations to serve you

Find our great products in bags at all of our locations and at Sutherlands Lumber

Ask about our installation of compost, soil and mulch!

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.

816-483-0908 | missouriorganic.com The Kansas City Gardener | February 2024

ome gardeners are absolutely (or somewhat) fearless. They are the glass half-full gardeners. They add plants to the garden, with a sense of design and “right plant-place” thinking. They are tinkerers and explorers at heart. They are nimble, bold, and don’t sweat the details. They amass plants quickly, adding them to the garden with impressive confidence, perhaps knowing – or betting – that some will land on good soil – that the plants will land next to a soulmate, and together, shine brightly. That the wildflowers, grasses, sedges, vines, shrubs, and trees they include in their landscapes will delight creatures great and small, and all will measure up in some way or another – even the ones that may not thrive or wither away. These gardeners dive into projects and generally don’t need or want much input. They learn by trial and error and adapt. Other gardeners are, well, the opposite. Like Chris Pine singing “Agony” in the musical, Into the Woods: “When the one thing you want is the only thing out of your reach.” These equivocal gardeners waffle like a squirrel on a busy street. To them, every plant acquisition is a research project. Caution, measure, and doubt are in these gardeners’ DNA. Glass half-empty gardeners. Of course, I’m exaggerating a little. But from meeting hundreds of gardeners over the years, I’ve noticed both types of gardeners. For the agonized native gardener, may I offer you some free (or modestly priced) advice: check out the Grow Native! educational programs, Resource Guide, plant sales, garden information, and designs, all available at grownative.org. If you live in the St. Louis area, I encourage you to join the St. Louis chapter of Wild Ones. Members of this national native landscaping organization can attend the annual seed swap, held every November, and visit member gardens each

Photos by Scott Woodbury.

Fearless Gardeners

Above: Ann Wakeman Below: Nathan Pate

month. Members include veteran and beginner native gardeners who freely share their gardening concepts. They will reveal the gardening secrets of their successes (and failures) and have some fun in the process. Being a part of this group is a huge confidence builder for beginners.

SCOTT WOODBURY Horticulturist 14

February 2024 | kcgmag.com

You also might check out Benjamin Vogt’s new book, Prairie Up, an Introduction to Natural Garden Design. It is packed with native gardening advice gained from years of tinkering. He offers an easy-tofollow, step-by-step approach to doing away with the lawn and replacing it with a rich tapestry of na-

tive plants. He offers lots of free advice through his website at Monarch Gardens, and sells a cool t-shirt that reads “Make America Prairie Again.” Let’s do that! If you want a free garden (or mostly free) and you live in St. Louis, The Deer Creek Watershed Alliance offers a smallgrant program that funds homeowner rainscaping projects. So does the St. Louis Metro Sewer District (MSD) Project Clear. Check out their websites for details and applications to apply. It’s no wonder that some gardeners get nervous when it comes to choosing native plants. There are so many species to choose from and infinite ways to arrange them. I’ve been tinkering with them for decades, and believe me, we are barely scratching the surface of what is possible in the native garden. My final word of advice to you, my dear gardeners, is to start adding more plants to your garden, even if it raises your anxiety level. By doing so, you will discover more than you can reading in books. There is no perfect plant, no perfect soil, no absolutely right or wrong way to pick and place plants in your garden. Sure, there are guidelines to follow, but there is more to gain by trying new things, new plants, new arrangements, and by pushing the limits of collective knowledge. That’s what fearless gardeners have discovered, and it’s my wish for you this new year. Happy gardening, y’all!

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.

Master Gardeners of Greater Kansas City

Help You Learn to Grow!

elping you learn to grow is more than a slogan for The Extension Master Gardeners of Greater Kansas City, it is our mission. This program is here to help new and experienced gardeners with research-based information on a variety of horticultural topics. Extension Master Gardeners (EMGs) receive extensive training by horticultural specialists. Every year, EMGs must be recertified,

Did you know we have a Gardening Hotline to answer your gardening questions? EMG volunteers can take your questions at https:// mggkc.hotline@gmail.com or our 24-hour voicemail line at 816-833TREE (8733.) Do not be surprised if a volunteer requests more information or photos of the plant or garden pest in question. We do this to provide the best research-based answers and recommendations pos-

a series called Kids Ask Dr. Bug, where children can learn about insects in the garden. These videos can be found listed here at https:// www.mggkc.org/public-education/ advanced-education/how-to-videos/. Extension Master Gardeners can help you learn to grow through a variety of public outreach activities. We are out in the community offering hands-on clinics and

tor from the Missouri Department of Agriculture will be presenting “Safeguarding Greenery: Insights from a State Plant Inspector.” In this presentation, you will learn how to identify plant diseases and pests lurking in nursery stock. Get insider tips on how to pick healthy nursery plants and keep your garden safe from unwanted trouble. All area gardeners are invited free of charge. This event will be on

and take continuing education classes to ensure they stay up to date with the latest research-based horticultural information. We are called Extension Master Gardeners because we are a program of the University of Missouri Extension. Master Gardeners of Greater Kansas City (MGGKC) is a program chapter located in the Urban West Region for MU Extension. We serve our communities in Jackson, Clay, and Platte counties. For more information, please visit https:// extension.missouri.edu/counties/ urban-west-region. MGGKC offers our services to help gardeners find the researchbased Information they need. Learn more about our chapter on our website, https://mggkc.org or by following our Facebook page at Master Gardeners of Greater Kansas City. Here are some of the ways we can help you learn to grow.

sible. Volunteers enjoy working on the MGGKC Gardening Hotline because they learn to grow too as they research and answer questions. Have you visited one of our community project gardens? EMGs work in demonstration and partnership gardens throughout Jackson, Clay, and Platte counties. Feel free to take a tour, ask an EMG your gardening questions, or help us in the garden. We love to talk about plants, share our research-based information, and help our communities learn to grow. For a full list and description of our garden projects please visit our website at https:// mggkc.org/our-projects/community-projects/. Do you like watching videos about gardening? Our chapter has a YouTube series called Tuesday Tips. These videos cover topics from winterizing garden tools to container gardening. There is also

classes. Last year, Blooming Blue Springs, an MGGKC group, hosted a hands-on clinic on building a raised garden bed, as well as three other classes. Activities like these are posted on our MGGKC Facebook page, MGGKC website, and community calendars. You can find our education table, and children’s programs at community events like farmer’s markets, fairs, and festivals. We also have a Speakers Bureau that is available to speak to garden clubs, plant societies, adult education programs, and community groups. For more information on Speaker Bureau topics visit https:// www.mggkc.org/public-education/ speakers-bureau/. We are looking forward to a successful year of helping you learn to grow. We have an exciting kick-off event for 2024. Join us for our MGGKC Gardeners Gathering. Mandy Tizon, a plant inspec-

February 15, from 6:30 to 8:00 pm, at Mid-Continent Public Library in the Woodneath Library Center Community Room located at 8900 Northeast Flintlock, Kansas City, Missouri 64157. Please let us know you will be attending by registering at https://extension.missouri.edu/ events/safeguarding-greenery-insights-from-a-state-plant-inspector. We at MGGKC would love to meet you at our community projects, outreach events, through our website/social media, or The Gardeners Gathering. It is our pleasure to share our research-based gardening information and help you learn to grow. Also keep in mind, MGGKC is always looking for gardeners to join our program. If you are interested in helping others learn to grow, find more information at https://www.mggkc.org/about-us/ become-a-master-gardener/. Hope to see you often in the coming year!

The Kansas City Gardener | February 2024

Upcoming Garden Events CLUB MEETINGS

Kansas City Cactus and Succulent Society Sun, Feb 18, 1:30-3:30p; at Trailside Center, 9901 Holmes Rd, Kansas City, MO. We welcome visitors and value your attendance. Leavenworth County Master Gardeners Wed, Feb 14, 11a; at Riverfront Community Center, 123 Esplanade St, Leavenworth, KS 66048. Frank J Norman of Norman Ecological Consulting, LLC and Kansas Herbalist, LLC, will present “Common Medicinal and Edible Native Plants of Kansas.” With more people interested in foraging for foods and purchasing native plants for their backyard or for attracting monarch butterflies or turning their property into an edible landscape, it is a good time to extoll the virtues of native medicinal and edible plants. Given his background as a plant ecologist and herbalist, Norman will discuss the medicinal uses and edible properties of trees, shrubs, wildflowers and weeds common in Kansas. The meeting is free. Visitors are welcome. For more information contact the Leavenworth County Extension office at 913-364-5700. Leawood Garden Club Tues, Feb 27, 10:30a; at Cure of Ars Catholic Church, 9401 Mission Rd, Leawood, KS 66206. Steve Hess, designer/gardener and business owner of From the Summer’s Garden, will be speaking about ‘Berried Treasure.’ He will discuss the celebration of homegrown berries for your yard and landscape. We hope you will join us! New guests are always welcome! Be advised that we follow the Shawnee Mission Cancellations Announcements concerning inclement weather plan. Olathe Garden & Civic Club Tues, Feb 16, 10:30a-2:30p. Location: Downtown Kansas City (addresses below). *Free to attend and open to the public, club membership not required.* Please join us for our monthly club meeting and a field trip to downtown KC. We’ll meet at Planters for shopping at 10:30, head to lunch at Harry’s at noon, and then on to the museum at 1:30. If attending lunch RSVP by 2/13/24 to jpickerill61@gmail.com. Addresses for meetup...Planters Seed & Spice Co: 513 Walnut St # A, Kansas City, MO 64106; Harry’s Country Club: 112 E Missouri Ave, Kansas City, MO 64106; Steamboat Arabia Museum: 400 Grand Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64106. Raytown Garden Club Tues, Feb 6, 10a; at Connection Point Church, Raytown, MO. The program scheduled will be “Improving the well-being of the Missouri Gardens: Invasive vs. Nuisance Plants”, with guest speaker Nikki King, CIG, Naturalist, Missouri Department of Conservation. Guests are always welcome. For more information, please check out our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/ RaytownGardenClub. Sho-Me African Violet Club 38th Annual Show & Sale Sat, Mar 16, 9a-3p; at Loose Park Garden Center, 51st St and Wornall Rd, Kansas City, MO 64112. Show entitled: “Violets in 24 Sho-Me More.” No admission fee. If further information is needed, call Lynn Canning 913-649-7334. Wyandotte County Extension Master Gardeners Thurs, Feb 1, 11:30a; at Sunflower Room, Wyandotte County Extension Office, 1208 N 79th St, Kansas City, KS. Hosting Karen Pendleton, owner of Pendleton’s Country Market, Lawrence, KS, who will present a class about using dried flowers in arrangements. Pre-registration is not needed. For further information, call 913-299-9300.

SYMPOSIUMS | SHOWS | SALES

Kansas Lawn & Garden Show Feb 16-18; at Stormont Vail Events Center, 1 Expocentre Dr, Topeka, KS 66612. Admission $10

February 2024 | kcgmag.com

per day; $21 for 3-day pass; Kids 12 and under are FREE! Senior Day is Fri, Feb 16, attendees 65 years and older receive 50% off ticket prices. For more information, www.kslawnandgardenshow. com. Paola Spring Symposium Sat, Feb 17, 8:30a-3:45p; at the Living Proof Church, 32401 Harmony Road, Paola, KS 66071. “Gardening Inspirations” will be the theme of the Marais des Cygnes Extension Master Gardeners’ Symposium. People garden for many different reasons. Four Extension Horticulturists will describe their garden inspirations with topics ranging from Growing Food and Garden Beauty to Native Pollinators and Native Plants. Then participants will complete a self-assessment to explore their own reasons for gardening. Please follow the link to the online registration: https:// tinyurl.com/2024MdCEMGSymposium. Preregistration is required by Feb 1st. Payment may be online with a credit card, or by check via mail or in-person at the Extension Office, 913 N Pearl St, Paola, KS 66071. Groovy Garden Show Sat, Mar 2, 9a-3p; at Douglas County Fairgrounds, 2110 Harper St, Lawrence, KS. Presented by Douglas County Extension Master Gardeners. This FREE Groovy Garden Show features Expert Speakers, Educational Booths, Workshops, Raffle & Silent Auctions, Garden Art and a Garden Garage Sale as well as Vendors and Food Trucks! Open to the public. For additional information go to our website: dgemgks.org or follow us on facebook.com/douglascountymastergardeners Spring Open House Event Mar 15-17. Join us exclusively at Family Tree Nursery, Overland Park store for a fantastic event, including food trucks, live music, kids activities, and some unbelievably creative garden displays. This event is FREE and open to the public. Kansas City Garden Symposium Sat, Mar 16; at Rockhurst University, 1100 Rockhurst Rd, Kansas City, MO 64110. $99. Four Speakers. Six Presentations. Lunch. Gift Bag. Workshop and Presentations for the Gardener in All of Us! A Day of Gardening Delight You Won’t Want to Miss. For more info and to register, gardenersconnect.org/symposium. Flower, Home & Garden Show Sat, Mar 23, 10a-4p; at Heritage Event & Arts Center, 109 Delaware St, Leavenworth, KS 66048. Leavenworth County Master Gardeners will be making presentations throughout the event. Join us for a fun-filled and informative event! Show features flowers, plants, home décor and garden equipment. Admission $2 per person. 913-682-2122; www.heritagecenter-leavenworth. com Homestead Festival Sat, Mar 23 and Sun, Mar 24; at Colonial Gardens, 27610 E Wyatt Rd, Blue Springs, MO 64014. Join us for any or all of this 2 full day festival to learn more about the basics of homesteading. You will hear from speakers on orcharding, edible trees, permaculture, cheesemaking, small container vegetable gardening, regenerative growing, beekeeping, foraging and more. With option to join our VIP speakers on A Foraged Culinary Experience, Mushroom Growing, and/or Whole Hog Breakdown. This is perfect for everyone that is interested in growing more on their own, from backyard gardens to full homesteading. For more information colonialgardens.com. Paola Spring Plant Sale Apr 25, 26, 27; in the parking lot at the K-State Extension Office, 913 N Pearl (Old KC Road), Paola, KS. Thurs 9a to 5p, Fri 9a to 6p, and Sat 9a to 1p. The sale will feature pesticide-free locally grown plants. In addition to the usual selection of butterfly host plants, pollinator flowers and native perennials, there will be ornamental

annuals, perennials, herbs, succulents, hanging baskets, trees and veggies. Extension Master Gardeners, including butterfly expert Lenora Larson, will be on hand to assist shoppers throughout the sale. Credit Cards welcome! More info at www. maraisdescygnes.ksu.edu. Follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/mdcemg or call the office: 913-294-4306. Moonlight On the Veranda Fri, Apr 26, 5-8p; at Greenwood Vintage Market, 502 W Main St, Greenwood, MO 64034 (Lower Level). $10, Advance tickets required. A garden filled, limited entry event and first dibs on all the wonderful decor, furniture, beautiful plants and more before the general public. All tickets come with a gift bag and entry into a grand prize giveaway. Ticket sales through Apr 21 unless sold out. For tickets, go to facebook.com/GreenwoodVintageMarket/events/, the link to the tickets is in the event. On the Veranda Garden Show Sat, Apr 27, 9a-3p; at Greenwood Vintage Market (Lower Level) Free Admission: A show for garden lovers. Come shop wonderful garden decor, outdoor furniture, plants and more! 816-537-7172

CLASSES | WORKSHOPS

Seed Starting Thurs, Feb 1, 6:30-7:30p; at Clinton Parkway Nursery, 4900 Clinton Parkway, Lawrence, KS 66047. Learn how to start your own seeds, what seeds work best to start indoors, and when to start them. Typically, we focus on starting annuals and vegetables from seed. There will be time for questions. FREE, but space is limited, so please RSVP at 785-842-3081. Terrariums of Love Sat, Feb 3, 10a; at Colonial Gardens, 27610 E Wyatt Rd, Blue Springs, MO 64014. Learn the dos and don’ts of making and caring for a terrarium while building your own. This activity is perfect for couples or gal pals, and takes place at Colonial Gardens Plant Bar. For more information visit colonialgardens.com or call 816-229-1277. Terrariums of Love Wed, Feb 7, 5p; at Colonial Gardens, 27610 E Wyatt Rd, Blue Springs, MO 64014. Learn the dos and don’ts of making and caring for a terrarium while building your own. This activity is perfect for couples or gal pals, and takes place at Colonial Gardens Plant Bar. For more information visit colonialgardens.com or call 816-229-1277. Houseplants Thurs, Feb 8, 6:30-7:30p; at Clinton Parkway Nursery, 4900 Clinton Parkway, Lawrence, KS 66047. Learn what plants work in what type of situations and how to care for them. There will be time for questions. FREE, but space is limited, so please RSVP at 785-842-3081. Succulent Container Workshops Fri, Feb 9 and Sat, Feb 10. Hosted at Family Tree Nursery three retail stores (Overland Park, Shawnee, Liberty). At this event, you will choose from stylish containers and various healthy succulents to make a lovely combo—a fun Valentine’s Day gift idea. Registration is required for this event. Registration opens on Jan 12; visit familytreenursery.com.

across the street from Ikea. Jen Stefanchik, regular Gardeners Connect newsletter writer focused on growing vegetables and fruit and a Johnson County Master Gardener, plans to talk about “Techniques to Boost Your Harvest in Any Size Garden”. The free program is presented by Gardeners Connect. Terrariums of Love Wed, Feb 14, 5p; at Colonial Gardens, 27610 E Wyatt Rd, Blue Springs, MO 64014. Learn the dos and don’ts of making and caring for a terrarium while building your own. This activity is perfect for couples or gal pals, and takes place at Colonial Gardens Plant Bar. For more information visit colonialgardens.com or call 816-229-1277. Master Gardeners of Greater Kansas City Gardeners’ Gathering Thurs, Feb 15, 6:30-8p; at Midcontinent Public Library, Woodneath Library Center Community Room, 8900 NE Flintlock, Kansas City, MO. All area gardeners are invited! Free of charge. Program: “Safeguarding Greenery: Insights from a State Plant Inspector.” Join Mandy Tizon, a Plant Inspector from the Missouri Department of Agriculture, as she unravels the secrets of plant diseases and pests lurking within nursery stock. Get insider tips on detecting trouble before it invades your own garden, safeguarding your green haven! Let us know you are coming–register at https:// extension.missouri.edu/events/safeguardinggreenery-insights-from-a-state-plant-inspector Vegetable Gardening Cold Crops Thurs, Feb 15, 6:30-7:30p; at Clinton Parkway Nursery, 4900 Clinton Parkway, Lawrence, KS 66047. How to grow cold season vegetables (think broccoli, cabbage, lettuces, potatoes, kale). Which ones depends on a vote from the workshop attendees. There will be time for questions. FREE, but space is limited, so please RSVP at 785-842-3081. Helping You Learn to Grow – Intro to Pollinators Sat, Feb 17, noon-3p; at George Owens Nature Park, 1601 S Speck Rd, Independence, MO 64057. Free of Charge. George Owens Nature Park Naturalists and Master Gardeners of Greater Kansas City invite your family for an afternoon of learning about our pollinators, their role in our environment, how we depend on them for our survival, and how we can take care of them. The event includes a program by Jeremiah Coomes, naturalist–Intro to Pollinators (1-2p). Extension Master Gardeners (EMGs) will have free researched-based information and demonstrations about attracting and taking care of our pollinators. EMGs will be happy to take your questions for the MGGKC Hotline. MGGKC Children’s Program will have pollinator activities. Desert Retreat in the Winter: a Cactus and Succulent Workshop Wed, Feb 21, 5p; at Colonial Gardens, 27610 E Wyatt Rd, Blue Springs, MO 64014. Enjoy the warmth of the greenhouse at the Colonial Gardens Plant Bar. You will learn how to make stunning cactus and succulent combos, using your choice of plants and incorporating colored rocks and other objects for a truly unique to you Cactus Combo Planter. For more information visit colonialgardens.com or call 816-229-1277.

Terrariums of Love Sat, Feb 10, 10a; at Colonial Gardens, 27610 E Wyatt Rd, Blue Springs, MO 64014. Learn the dos and don’ts of making and caring for a terrarium while building your own. This activity is perfect for couples or gal pals, and takes place at Colonial Gardens Plant Bar. For more information visit colonialgardens.com or call 816-229-1277.

Vegetable Gardening Warm Crops Thurs, Feb 22, 6:30-7:30p; at Clinton Parkway Nursery, 4900 Clinton Parkway, Lawrence, KS 66047. How to grow summer vegetables, 4-5 different summer vegetables to be discussed (think peppers, eggplants, melons, cucumbers, squash). Which ones depends on a vote from the workshop attendees. FREE, but space is limited, so please RSVP at 785-842-3081.

Gardeners Connect Speaker Series Tues, Feb 13, 7p; at the Merriam Community Center, 6040 Slater St, Merriam, KS 66202. It is

Desert Retreat in the Winter: a Cactus and Succulent Workshop Sat, Feb 24, 10a; at Colonial Gardens, 27610 E

Wyatt Rd, Blue Springs, MO 64014. Enjoy the warmth of the greenhouse at the Colonial Gardens Plant Bar. You will learn how to make stunning cactus and succulent combos, using your choice of plants and incorporating colored rocks and other objects for a truly unique to you Cactus Combo Planter. For more information visit colonialgardens.com or call 816-229-1277. Smallscapes, Terrarium, and Fairy Garden Workshop Sat, Feb 24 and Sun, Feb 25, 2p each day; at Suburban Lawn & Garden, 105th and Roe, Overland Park, KS 66207. Join us for a smallscapes, terrarium, and fairy garden workshop. The class is free, materials are for purchase. Please call 913649-8700 to register in advance. Homestead Gardening 101—Your backyard greenhouse Sat, Feb 24, 11a; at Colonial Gardens, 27610 E Wyatt Rd, Blue Springs, MO 64014. From growing garden to saving money on the grocery bill, greenhouse manager Kevin Kielig will take you through how to have a successful vegetable garden. For more information visit colonialgardens. com or call 816-229-1277. Issues 101 Thurs, Feb 29, 6:30-7:30p; at Clinton Parkway Nursery, 4900 Clinton Parkway, Lawrence, KS 66047. What’s wrong with _______? How to identify and treat disease, deficiencies, insects, etc. There will be time for questions. FREE, but space is limited, so please RSVP at 785-842-3081. Beginning Vegetable Garden Sat, Mar 2, 10-11a; at Clinton Parkway Nursery, 4900 Clinton Parkway, Lawrence, KS 66047. Learn how to start a simple and manageable vegetable garden. There will be time for questions. FREE, but space is limited, so please RSVP at 785-842-3081. Desert Retreat in the Winter: a Cactus and Succulent Workshop Sat, Mar 2, 10a; at Colonial Gardens, 27610 E Wyatt Rd, Blue Springs, MO 64014. Enjoy the warmth of the greenhouse at the Colonial Gardens Plant Bar. You will learn how to make stunning cactus and succulent combos, using your choice of plants and incorporating colored rocks and other objects for a truly unique to you Cactus Combo Planter. For more information visit colonialgardens.com or call 816-229-1277. Growing Tomatoes Thurs, Mar 7, 6:30-7:30p; at Clinton Parkway Nursery, 4900 Clinton Parkway, Lawrence, KS 66047. Learn how to grow a great tomato whether it be a cherry or a beefsteak, in the ground, or in a container. There will be time for questions. FREE, but space is limited, so please RSVP at 785-8423081. Homestead Gardening 101—Your backyard greenhouse Sat, Mar 9, 10a; at Colonial Gardens, 27610 E Wyatt Rd, Blue Springs, MO 64014. From growing garden to saving money on the grocery bill, greenhouse manager Kevin Kielig will take you through how to have a successful vegetable garden. You’ll leave feeling empowered and with a few seed starts to get you moving in the right direction. For more information visit colonialgardens.com or call 816-229-1277. Growing Tomatoes Sat, Mar 9, 10-11a; at Clinton Parkway Nursery, 4900 Clinton Parkway, Lawrence, KS 66047. Learn how to grow a great tomato whether it be a cherry or a beefsteak, in the ground, or in a container. There will be time for questions. FREE, but space is limited, so please RSVP at 785-8423081. Containers I Thurs, Mar 14, 6:30-7:30p; at Clinton Parkway Nursery, 4900 Clinton Parkway, Lawrence, KS 66047. Learn how to grow flowers and vegetables in containers. What varieties work best. What soil to use and how to care for them to create a show stopper. Part II scheduled on Sat, Mar 16. There will be time for questions. FREE, but space is limited, so please RSVP at 785-842-3081.

Containers II Sat, Mar 16, 10-11a; at Clinton Parkway Nursery, 4900 Clinton Parkway, Lawrence, KS 66047. Hands-on workshop! Create your own container garden. $55 sign-up fee for up to 12’’ pot. Includes soil, 6 plants, starter fertilizer and soil moist. Pots >12’’ $ based on pot size. Bring your own pot or purchase one from us. Space is limited, so please RSVP at 785-842-3081. Homestead Gardening 101—Your backyard greenhouse Sun, Mar 17, 11:30a; at Colonial Gardens, 27610 E Wyatt Rd, Blue Springs, MO 64014. From growing garden to saving money on the grocery bill, greenhouse manager Kevin Kielig will take you through how to have a successful vegetable garden. You’ll leave feeling empowered and with a few seed starts to get you moving in the right direction. For more information visit colonialgardens.com or call 816-229-1277. Raised Beds Thurs, Mar 21, 6:30-7:30p; at Clinton Parkway Nursery, 4900 Clinton Parkway, Lawrence, KS 66047. Learn about different types of raised beds as well as what media to put in it for maximum results. There will be time for questions. FREE, but space is limited, so please RSVP at 785-8423081. Spring Container Workshops Mar 22-24. Hosted at Family Tree Nursery three retail stores (Overland Park, Shawnee, Liberty). At this event, we supply all the materials needed to create a beautiful combo perfect for adding early spring color to your front porch, balcony, or patio. Registration is required for this event. Registration opens on Feb 22; visit familytreenursery. com. KCRS Spring Rose Program Sat, Mar 23, 10a-noon; at the Loose Park Garden Center, 5200 Pennsylvania Ave, Kansas City, MO. “Easy Care Backyard Rose Gardening,” presented by Jerry Dreyer, American Rose Society Consulting Rosarian with the Kansas City Rose Society. Jerry will discuss basic steps for success in growing roses in Kansas City, along with a review of roses that thrive with minimal care. Fruit Tree Trimming Thurs, Mar 28, 6:30-7:30p; at Clinton Parkway Nursery, 4900 Clinton Parkway, Lawrence, KS 66047. Learn how to prune cherries, apples, peaches & pears for fruit production. This seminar will be held outdoors with a demonstration (weather permitting). There will be time for questions. FREE, but space is limited, so please RSVP at 785-842-3081. Herbs 101–Growing and Storing Herbs Thurs, Apr 4, 6:30-7:30p; at Clinton Parkway Nursery, 4900 Clinton Parkway, Lawrence, KS 66047. Learn the basics of growing an herb garden. From site selection and soil preparation to harvesting and using. There will be time for questions. FREE, but space is limited, so please RSVP at 785-842-3081. Creating a Pollinator Garden 101 Thurs, Apr 11, 6:30-7:30p; at Clinton Parkway Nursery, 4900 Clinton Parkway, Lawrence, KS 66047. Learn what it takes to create a garden that the Bees & Butterflies will love. There will be time for questions. FREE, but space is limited, so please RSVP at 785-842-3081. Top 10 Annuals & Perennials Thurs, Apr 18, 6:30-7:30p; at Clinton Parkway Nursery, 4900 Clinton Parkway, Lawrence, KS 66047. Learn about some of our favorite annuals and perennials and how to incorporate them into your landscape. There will be time for questions. FREE, but space is limited, so please RSVP at 785-842-3081.

List your garden events for free. Send details to elizabeth@kcgmag.com. Deadline for the March issue is February 15.

Douglas County Extension Master Gardeners present

Groovy Garden Show Saturday, March 2 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Douglas County Fairgrounds, 2110 Harper Street, Lawrence KS.

his FREE Groovy Garden Show features Expert Speakers, Educational Booths, Workshops, Raffle & Silent Auctions, Garden Art and a Garden Garage Sale as well as Vendors and Food Trucks! Consistent with our educational mission, EMG staffed Educational Booths will provide guidance and expert advice on garden topics including engaging future generations with Youth Gardening, Utilizing Native Plants, Identifying Beneficial Insects, Growing Vegetables, and Creating Self-Watering Planters. You can also receive help dealing with your garden problems, plan your landscape, learn moneysaving sustainability tips, prepare for gardening with yoga-based stretches, and relax from the healing energy of crystal singing bowls. Dr. Kristen A. Baum, the new Director of Monarch Watch is a featured speaker, sharing the importance of Monarch Waystations to support pollinators. Additional presentation topics include: Medicinal Plants For Your Garden, A Garden Soil Health Primer, Groovy Gardening As We Age, and Edible Landscapes. Our partners at Common Ground will be on hand to discuss community gardens. Lastly, you can learn about Square Foot Gardening in our Fairground’s Hoop House. Speakers will begin at 9:30 a.m. and continue on the hour. The last presentation will be at 1:30 p.m. For a hands-on experience, sign up for a workshop. Projects include creating Whimsical Garden Mushrooms, Pie Pan Garden Art Flowers, or Recycled Wood Oriole Feeders. All abilities are welcome. There are material fees for these “Make And Take” home projects.

Details and registration information can be found at dgemgks.org. Recycling began in the late 1960s. The Groovy Garage Sale honors the principals of reusing/ recycling/repurposing lawn and gardening equipment and décor. Proceeds from the Garage Sale, Raffle & Silent Auction, Garden Art Show, and workshops support ongoing public educational programs and activities for Douglas County K-State Extension Master Gardeners. Attendees will appreciate the gardening-focused expertise, garden products and art provided by our Vendors. Joining us are: Clinton Parkway Nursery, Vinland Valley Nursery, Lawrence Tree Service, Kansas Plant Farm, Wildfire Metal, Wild Ivy Herb Farm, PInes Garden & Market, Nature’s Image and Aquatic Design, Heinen Outdoor Power Equipment and Wild Birds Unlimited. Our business partners will have staff on hand to respond to your gardening needs. In addition, Uplift Coffee, Flatlander’s Pizza, ThisN’That-LFK as well as KCCornDog will provide food and beverages from their food trucks. Plan to stay the day! Gardening feeds the soul, and provides a sense of peace and hope for the future. The classic rock anthem Woodstock, reminds us “We’ve got to get ourselves… back to the garden!” After a cold winter, we invite you to do just that. Please join us for garden inspirations, art, education, and garage sale bargains at the 60’s inspired…Groovy Garden Show! This event is free and open to the public. For additional information go to our website: dgemgks. org or follow us on facebook.com/ douglascountymastergardeners.

The Kansas City Gardener | February 2024

GARDEN CALENDAR February list of what to do in the garden.

FLOWERS

• Check fall-planted perennials and water if needed. • Watch for frost heaving of tender perennials. Push back into soil and water. • Replenish winter protective mulch around hybrid tea roses, protecting the graft. • Check bulbs in storage for decay and discard. • Prepare orders for mail. • Start seeds for transplanting. • Obtain a soil test and make needed improvements.

TREES AND SHRUBS

• Check for rabbit damage on young trees and shrubs. • Water fall-planted trees and shrubs. • Water evergreens if the soil is dry and not frozen. • Apply dormant oil for control of scales and mites. • Begin spring pruning on warm days. • Delay pruning spring-flowering trees and shrubs until after bloom; enjoy the full flowering effect. • Force twigs of spring shrubs into blooming indoors, adding a splash of color. • Remove snow carefully from limbs with a broom.

VEGETABLES AND FRUITS

• Create garden layouts to assist with the planning process. • Order seeds. • Obtain a soil test and make needed improvements. • Start broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage transplants. • Prune apple, pear, and cherry trees.

• Prune peach and nectarines just prior to bloom time. • Select varieties and order new fruit trees. • Check for rabbit and rodent damage on trees. • Apply manure or compost to garden areas and incorporate for soil improvement. • Prepare garden soil for early planting. • Avoid working the soil when wet. • Check stored seeds and discard old supply. • Prune grapes, raspberries, and blackberries. • Jumpstart the compost bin. Turn and add water.

LAWNS

• Rake fallen leaves carried by the wind into the yard to prevent suffocation. • Review lawn service contracts and make changes. • Tune-up and repair lawnmowers before the spring rush. • Avoid damage to the grass. Keep foot traffic to a minimum when soil is frozen.

INDOOR PLANTS

• Rotate plants in sunlight to produce a balanced plant. • Withhold fertilization until spring light arrives. • Check plants for insects, mites, and other problems. • Remove dust from plants by placing them in the shower under room temperature water. • Give a plant to a friend for a winter pick-me-up. • Repot root-bound plants in a 1-inch larger pot. • Take cuttings of plants to make new ones for friends. • Shape plants for spring growth to produce a more balanced and attractive plant.

Use this space to list additional tasks to accomplish in your garden. • • • •

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.

February 2024 | kcgmag.com

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The Kansas City Gardener | February 2024

Terrarium Workshop Join us Feb. 24th or 25th at our Overland Park store to build your own smallscape or fairy garden. To register, call 913-649-8700

Colors of Love Warm your hearts with our huge selection of blooming tropical flowers and colorful indoor plants.

Winter Color Encourage birds to visit by offering a bite to eat. Visit any of our stores for a selection of seeds and feeders.

105th & Roe (913) 649-8700

K-7 & Prairie Star Pkwy (913) 897-5100 suburbanlg.com

February 2024 | kcgmag.com

135th & Wornall (816) 942-2921