KCG Feb23

The Kansas City

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Elizabeth Cavanaugh

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Tamra Reall

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Lesson from the garden

Recent days have resembled early spring rather than the middle of winter—temperature-wise that is. The random warm sunny days encourage many to get outside while the getting is good. Families utilize the sidewalks and trails for strolling and dog walking. Little ones practice balance and pedaling their shiny, new bikes. Future pitchers and sluggers begin spring training early at local baseball fields. Even gardeners get in on the action by raking another pile of leaves and collecting debris blown around by winter winds.

Mr. Gardener was motivated to piddle around outside as well. Materials needed for seed starting like trays, containers, soil and seeds, had collected in the garage, so he began transferring it all to the greenhouse. In a few weeks it will be time to start seeds, and he awaits the arrival of a new lighting system. (The woes of international distribution interrupted continue.) In the meantime, he cleaned and organized, making ready a new setup. With momentum like a locomotive, and an energized sense of accomplishment, Mr. Gardener moved on to the garden. Containers scattered around the landscape of pansies and ornamental cabbage that didn’t survive the December arctic blast were cleared. While at my desk working I heard raking, and decided to look outside to see what he was up to. By the time I

got to the window, he was pruning the viburnum, the spring-blooming viburnum. I about lost my mind.

Let me pause here to say that I rarely (if ever) lose my temper. Well maybe when the kids were young and their table manners were atrocious then maybe, just maybe I would spontaneously combust into the-mean-mom. You know the one…. with her raised voice and flailing arms asking if anyone is listening??

So when I say I almost lost my mind, that really means I’m frustrated, and in my head saying, “You know you’re cutting off the blooms.” Before I speak words I can’t pull back, I remind myself that Mr. Gardener is a wise gardener. He knows better than most when plants bloom and when to prune. In fact, he has pruned this same shrub this time last year.

This viburnum is situated as a featured shrub and its job is to fill the space at the edge of the deck. It does that well, except for the disorderly upright branching that makes it appear out of balance. That pruning is best completed after blooming, like June or July. It blooms on old wood, so pruning in winter removes future blooms. I care about those future blooms. Mr. Gardener does not. Well, not on this particular single shrub. He doesn’t mind sacrificing a few spring blooms for a more tidy appearing shrub.

The lesson for me in this tale is:

Don’t lose your mind about gardening. It is a hobby, not brain surgery. A few lost flowers does not constitute a declaration of grave error. Nor should any unfavorable result cause too much distress. There are lots of variables when it comes to gardening—plant health, climate, soil condition, and humans, to name a few. So much is out of our control. Better to focus on the things we can control.

As I recall, when discussing this pruning situation a year ago, his response was, “Yeah I know I’m cutting off blooms, but I don’t like the way it looks now.” {heavy sigh} I’ve considered hiding the pruners. I’ll see you in the garden!

2023 | kcgmag.com

This month I’m deviating from my normal column to answer frequent questions about the International Master Gardener Conference. This major gardening event is being hosted in Kansas City by the K-State Research and Extension Master Gardeners of Johnson County.

Local gardeners are invited to participate and join the fun. This conference is held every two years at locations around the U.S. and Canada. In 2023, this year, it will showcase our home, Kansas City. The Conference is an opportunity for professional development and learning for Extension Master Gardener volunteers and the gardening public. It features tours, workshops, presentations, a trade show, and an opportunity to learn from gardeners around the country. It is international in scope as similar programs are in Canada, England, and South Korea.

CONFERENCE DATES

Question: When is the conference being held?

Answer: It’s all happening June 18-22, 2023, at the Overland Park Convention Center (OPCC), 2023 winner of EXHIBITOR magazine’s Best Small Convention Center in North America. Registration is open to all garden enthusiasts. Over 600 people from nearly 40 states have already accepted the invitation to celebrate, educate and grow. Add your name to the list of attendees soon.

WHO AND WHAT TO LOOK FORWARD TO

Question: What can I expect if I attend the conference?

Answer: For starters, five world-renowned keynote speakers and your choice of more than 40 sessions led by botanical, horticultural and gardening professionals. Conference presenters from over 20 states, Canada, and England in

Ask the Experts

addition to 13 published authors, and a Nobel Peace Prize winner. A welcome dinner, two lunches and three breakfasts are also included in the registration fee. Parking is free at the Overland Park Convention Center where the conference will be held.

ALL ARE INVITED

Question: Can I register for the conference if I’m not a Master Gardener?

Answer: Yes, you can! This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience happening right here in your own backyard and we wouldn’t want you to miss it. Full conference early bird registration is $397 now through March 1, 2023. After that, registration is $459. Either rate is incredible when you consider it includes five world-renowned keynote speakers and your choice of more than 40 sessions led by botanical, horticultural and gardening professionals. Read all about them. Go to the IMGC 2023 website at www.imgc2023.com and click the Conference Overview menu.

MANY SCHEDULED TOURS AND WORKSHOPS

Question: What other events can I expect when I register for the conference?

Answer: You can choose from 13 optional uptown, downtown, and out-of-town tours. What interests you? Visiting gardens, experiencing a tallgrass prairie, touring Monarch Watch, exploring a wetland, or sipping wine? Maybe you are interested in an insider’s tour of Kansas City iconic arts and architecture. These activities and more are parts of tours tailor-made for

gardeners. They fill quickly, so register for the conference soon and make your tour selections.

If you enjoy exploration and hands-on projects, be sure to enroll in optional gardening workshops. Landscape design, nature journaling, native plant gardening, and plant pathology are just a few workshop themes.

OPTIONS

Question: Are there activities I can attend without registering for the IMGC?

Answer: There are several events open to the public. The Tour of Private Gardens will be held Saturday and Sunday, June 17 and 18. You can visit six Kansas City private gardens rarely open for public tours. We selected the best of the best for this tour. Admission is $45.

Evening Featured Speakers presentations will be held on Sunday, Tuesday, and Wednesday evenings. Leigh Hunt of the Royal Horticultural Society, Kew Gardens, London, England will present on Sunday about making England a greener place. Tuesday, local author Sara Dykman discusses her experiences bicycling the monarch migration. Wednesday features a world-renowned plant explorer and breeder from the Seattle area, Dan Hinkley. Each speaker will have fascinating stories and amazing visuals. Each evening admission is $49 for one or bundle all three for $109.

Garden Thyme Marketplace is open to the public. Shop a wide array of garden related merchandise with many one-of-kind items from unique vendors. Over 50 vendors will display products for the garden

plus nature-inspired art and unique plants. Stop by Monday, Noon to 7 p.m., Tuesday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Wednesday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. It’s free to attend!

Tickets for public events can be purchased directly through the Johnson County K-State Extension website at www.johnson.ksu.edu.

REGISTRATION

Question: How do I register for the conference?

Answer: Begin at our website, www.imgc2023.com. All the information about conference speakers, tours, workshops, presentations, and the marketplace can be found on the website. The Conference Planner helps you get organized and make your selections. Once you have made your decisions, go to the Registration menu, and click Register Here.

BECOME A MASTER GARDENER AND SERVE YOUR COMMUNITY

Question: If I wanted to be a Master Gardener, what are some of the projects I’d get to volunteer for?

Answer: First, you would complete an extensive horticultural training program that qualifies you to serve your community as a Master Gardener. Your volunteer opportunities include help lines, workshops, plant clinics, and creating and maintaining demonstration gardens.

I encourage you to join the estimated 80,000 Master Gardeners in the United States. Ready to enroll? Search online by entering the county and state where you live followed by Master Gardener program.

Find complete details about the conference and all purchase options by visiting www.imgc2023. com or call 913-715-7034 (Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.). Follow us on Facebook at www. facebook.com/IMGC2023.

DENNIS PATTON Horticulture Agent 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.

Koi Pond and Water Feature Designs

Hundreds of

and Organic Seed varieties

Monthly Maintenance: Don’t have the time to dedicate to maintaining your water feature? Our monthly maintenance programs will ensure your water feature remains in its best possible condition. Our maintenance team is knowledgeable and will cater to exactly what your water feature needs.

Other Services:

• Service calls. If you ever have a problem with your feature or landscape lighting, give us a call and one of our crew members will come out and fix it.

• Landscape lighting. AMP Lifetime Fixtures and Transformers.

• Hardscapes. Patios, walls, firepit, decks, and outdoor living.

• Full Retail Center. Pond/Lake maintenance products and equipment supplies, Koi and assorted goldfish, aquatic plants including lilies, lotus and marginals.

We’re going paperless!

Kids Ask Dr. Bug about the curious things found in the garden

What are pheromones?

Pheromones are the chemicals insects and other animals use to communicate with each other. Pheromones help insects attract and find mates, find food, warn others of their species, as well as many other uses that affect insect behavior and physiology. I’ll share a few examples.

Female Luna moths release a pheromone at night to attract a mate. The male Luna moth has feathery antennae that can pick up the females pheromone up to six miles away! Japanese beetles use an aggregation pheromone to attract other Japanese beetles to a good food source. And, beneficial predatory wasps may pick up on pheromones given off by their prey which can help them find their prey.

Do ants and bees have the same kinds of pheromones and why do they have them?

Eusocial species, such as ants, honey bees, and paper wasps use pheromones in many ways. The colony uses pheromones to recognize their nestmates versus those who do not belong in their nest. This way they can warn nestmates of a potential invader and to recruit help in protecting against invaders. This is important because with thousands of insects in a colony, this would be an easy meal for predators if they were able to get in undetected. Even though these insects use similar pheromones for similar purposes, each species’ and colony’s pheromones are different.

Another pheromone used by ants involves laying down a trail when they leave the nest in search of food. As each ant travels, they drop some pheromone on the trail. If it is a really good food source, and many ants travel on the trail, the pheromone trail becomes strong. A trail that doesn’t lead to

a good food source will not be very strong and will be abandoned.

If the queen bee dies, what do you do? A new queen wouldn’t have the right pheromone, would she?

If the queen bee dies in a honey bee hive, the pheromones she produced will cease. Queen bees produce multiple pheromones, each with various purposes. One pheromone keeps the hive calm and keeps the bees from swarming, and another pheromone keeps the other

female bees in the hive from laying eggs. So, if a new queen isn’t developed or brought in quickly (within a week or two), worker bees will start laying eggs that are not fertilized, the bees will be restless, and the hive will eventually die off.

If there are new eggs in the hive when the queen dies, the worker bees will start “queen cells” to rear up a new queen. Queens are made by feeding the young bee a special diet. If all goes well, in 16 days, a new queen emerges and can restore order in the hive.

In managed hives, beekeepers regularly check their hives to be sure they are “queen-right” meaning that the queen is healthy. If the queen is missing, they will bring in a new queen. Since she will not “smell” right to the other bees in the hive, she will be put in the hive in a little protective cage with a candy plug blocking the exit. As she and the other bees eat the plug, her pheromone will spread through the hive. By the time she gets out of the cage, the other bees will be used to her pheromone and will allow her to become the hive’s queen.

Do people use pheromones to manage pest insects?

Yes! Pheromones are used by humans to manage pests in a few ways. If we can discover the pheromone that attracts a particular pest, scientists can create a synthetic chemical that is the same as the one the insect makes. Then that chemical can be added to a lure. The lure may be put in a sticky trap to capture pests. This kind of trap can be used to capture pest, or the trap can be used to monitor when pests are around so that other management methods can be used. Another way pheromones are used is to fill the air with the pheromone so that the insects can’t find what they are looking for. This method is often used as a mating disruption, where the mating pheromone is spread, and the males are unable to find the females so they can’t mate and create more pests.

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 (@MUExtBugNGarden) is a horticulture specialist for MU Extension –Urban West Region. For free, research-based gardening tips, call 816-833-TREE (8733), email mggkc.hotline@gmail.com, or visit extension.missouri.edu. The University of Missouri is an equal opportunity/access/affirmative action/pro-disabled and veteran employer.

TAMRA REALL Horticulture Specialist

Male Luna moth’s feather-like antennae help the moth pick up the female’s pheromones.

Photo credit to Kevin Lane/Pixabay.

Elegant Indigos

If there were royalty in the house of native landscaping, the indigos (HRH Baptisia) would be sitting squarely on the throne. Indigos are always top performers for longevity, top for reliability, best of show, best for bumblebees (and children), and furthest flung. Where do I begin?

First I should mention that Baptisia species are often referred to as false or wild indigo. False because it is related to true indigo (the plant that renders blue dye), and wild, I guess, because it was never row cropped like true indigo. But Baptisia deserves a place on the cover of coffee table books. It shouldn’t play second fiddle to indigo, it deserves a loftier ranking, or even a name all to its own, like candelabra. Now there’s a plant name I could warm up to.

White wild indigo, (possibly great candelabra), Baptisia alba, is big—at times, growing four or 5 feet tall. It has spires of white flowers in June and July, that are bumblebee magnets. Hummingbirds are fond of it as well. Its ropey roots drill deep into the soil, making it drought-tolerant and long-lived. In December, the dead stem with attached branches becomes a farflung tumbleweed, bouncing across the garden or prairie.

Blue wild indigo, (how about cerulean candelabra), Baptisia australis, is the darling of many native landscapes. It varies in size, depending on the variety. Variety (abbreviated var.) minor may be two or three feet tall with small leaflets, whereas other varieties are bigger. It has cobalt blue flowers in late April and early May, and grows best in full sun. Like white indigo, its pods are respectable substitutes for childen’s rattles. Blue indigo is a nice companion plant for shining blue star (Amsonia illustris), golden Alexander (Zizia aurea), and Bradbury beebalm (Monarda bradburiana).

Smaller still is yellow wild in-

digo (elegant candelabra), Baptisia sphaerocarpa, topping out at 24 to 30 inches tall and wide. It grows upright in full sun and bends sideways in light shade. It blooms in April. It attracts Genista broom moth caterpillars, which in turn, feed baby birds, though they diminish the foliage. A good companion planting for this one is wild strawberry (Fragaria virginiana), which fills in when foliage retreats, and itself retreats when the yellow wild indigo is at its best.

Cream wild indigo (weeping candelabra), Baptisia bracteata, has creamy yellow flowers on graceful pendulous stalks. It is low-growing and thrives in dry, well-drained soil, and in full sun to part shade. Unfortunately, it is not tolerant of alkaline soil. It requires an acidic soil, ideally in the range of pH 5-6. Other showy dry and acid-loving companion plants include goats rue (Tephrosia virginiana), lead plant (Amorpha canescens), and late purple aster (Symphyotrichum patens).

Birds have official common

SCOTT WOODBURY

names, and as far as I am aware, they do not include the use of the words wild or weed—not that they would. All North American birds are wild, and weeds are plants, not birds. But it makes me wonder why birding is such a beloved pastime. Could it be that there aren’t any derogatory names in my birding book. I don’t see a reference to noisy crows, greedy Robins, soiling geese, or over-productive starlings.

The same may be true for traditional gardening. Non-native gardeners peruse rows and rows of plants with appealing and seductive names like ‘Sunshine Superman’, ‘Screaming Yellow’, and ‘Happy Returns’. The native plant row bears the names false indigo, clammyweed, ironweed, liverwort, sneezeweed, milkweed, horsemint, creeper, spreading, trailing, and knotweed. It’s no wonder that native landscaping gets a bad rap by so many, and that native plants are so often categorized as weeds. They’re actually still called

weeds, after hundreds of years since being named.

So I propose here a few complimentary common names. Names that elevate Baptisia to the place where it deserves to be. On the top of the list of celebrated species, where it perhaps should be. Happy gardening, y’all!

Baptisia sphaerocarpa

Horticulturist

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.

Photos by Scott Woodbury.

Baptisia alba

Blue wild indigo

Paola Gardening Symposium: Garden Design with Maintenance in Mind February 25

What are your most difficult gardening challenges? When our Symposium Committee asked our members about their frustrations and challenges, the answers were consistent, especially “not enough time to take care of my garden.” And no surprise, everyone hates weeds! Many remarked on the unfulfilled promise of low maintenance when planting native seeds and plants. And all asked for ideas on how they and their garden could gracefully grow old together. The Committee detected a common theme running through these replies: gardeners still yearn for a no/low maintenance garden! And garden maintenance remains as important to success as garden design or cool plant selections.

A panel of experts will address these concerns at our 6th annual Garden Design Symposium, Garden Design with Maintenance in Mind. In her opening presentation Know before you Grow, MdC Master Gardener Stacie Campbell discusses the time demands of various styles of gardens. As she explores the differences between gardeners and their gardens, Stacie explains that “Not all gardeners are the same. Some love to spend hours in the garden while others have very little time.” Her presentation will help you to assess your gardening skills and preferences, and how to match them to your gardening space.

MdC EMG Lenora Larson hates weeds so much that she has banished them from her garden. In Winning the Weed Wars, she shares her many strategies to prevent or remove these criminals. Starting with “know your enemy,” she emphasizes prevention and horticultural practices such as minimal soil disturbance and layers of mulch. Other tactics include mechanical removal, well-timed chemical applications and heat.

Brad Guhr, Director of Prairie Restoration at the Dyck Arboretum of the Great Plains, presents Native Plant Landscaping: Best Practices. Gardening with Kansas native flora is no longer a trendy fad, it is a recommended practice as we experience the increasing severity of droughts and extreme temperatures. Brad’s 20 years of trial and error have evolved into a summary of best management practices for native landscaping, including plant-pollinator interactions.

Will we inevitably have to give up gardening as we age? Kevin Nelson, Douglas County Master Gardener, says “Not necessarily!” in Maintenance for the Aging Gardener. Continuing to garden with decreased mobility requires adjusting our landscapes, our tools, our techniques and our expectations. You will see examples of how to alter your beds, reexamine your plant choices and assess your tools. Even if you downsize from a traditional home to an apartment, you can still enjoy your smaller space if you alter your expectations and abandon perfectionism.

Garden Design with Maintenance in Mind will be presented by the Marais des Cygnes Extension Master Gardeners on Saturday February 25, 2023; 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Lighthouse Church, 1402 East 303rd Street, Paola, KS 66071. The $45 tickets will be sold online only. No refunds are possible but tickets may be transferred. Please follow this link to online registration: https://tinyurl.com/MdCEMGGardenSymposium.

Learn the secret to a weed-free garden from Extension Master Gardener Lenora Larson.

WALLSTONE TOPSOIL FOUNTAINS MULCHES

Orchids

flowering tropicals for every gardener

When I was a young teenager, my passion for orchids began after seeing an ad in a magazine for an orchida-month promotion. The orchid bug had bit and I started reading anything about orchids I could find. There were not a lot of resources back then, this was pre-internet, but after 35 years I’ve learned a lot. I began to attend orchid shows and exhibitions, and once I became a member of my local orchid society, I absorbed as much information as possible. Today, I am responsible for Powell Garden’s orchid collection and would like to share my recommendations for fellow orchid enthusiasts at all levels.

Beginner Level

Moth Orchids, Phalaenopsis, are the most widely available orchid and are sold in some of our local Kansas City garden centers. Their blooms can last for months, which make them great for an indoor flowering plant. They prefer moderate light levels available through east windows or shaded south and west windows. They grow great in indoor light gardens too! If your moth orchid fails to bloom again, I recommend a temperature shock. A temperature shock is achieved by allowing the temperature to drop between 50°F and 60°F in the fall.

Lady Slippers, Paphiopedilum, specifically the mottled leaf types, have exotic flowers and beautiful mottled foliage. They can grow alongside your moth orchids. Their flowers can last up to several months and come in colors ranging from deep reds to green with warts and hairs along the petals.

BRENT TUCKER Lead Horticulturist

Brent Tucker is Lead Horticulturist of Tropical Collections at Powell Gardens where he can realize his passion with orchids and tropical plants. Besides designing and building seasonal displays using tropicals and orchids he leads the annual Orchid Delirium exhibition.

All photos courtesy of Brent Tucker.

Intermediate Level

Dancing Ladies, Oncidium Alliance, is a big group of related plants that have been interbred to create a huge array of hybrids. The flowers can vary in size and color, including shapes, spots, and bars. Because of the many parents used in breeding, their culture can differ. Dancing Ladies prefer bright indirect light such as that from a west or south window. Allow the growing medium to dry somewhat and feed monthly. Flowers last about three weeks, but they make up the shorter flower life with an abundance of flowers or very exotic coloration. Grow these in a west or south window with some light shading.

Pansy Orchids, Miltoniopsis, are related to Dancing Ladies and are used to create unique hybrids. They

Opposite page: Cymbidium hybrid

can be grown much like Dancing Ladies but do prefer cooler temperatures. Grow them in a cooler room or even in the basement under lights. Flowers last about four to six weeks and are delightfully fragrant.

Advanced Level

Corsage or Queen of Orchids, Cattleya, are one of my favorite orchids. Some of them have huge showy flowers and can be quite fragrant. I place these in the advanced level because they require very bright light, even some morning sun, and they tend to be large plants. However, breeders have been producing miniature plants that can easily be grown on the windowsill and can bloom multiple times of the year. Keep in warm temperatures, which are easily ob(continued on page 12)

Above: Moth Orchid Phalaenopsis

Below: Cattleya hybrid

(continued from page 11)

tained in a south or west window.

Dendrobiums are also in a large group of orchids that come from many habitats and have different culture requirements. The flowers can be uniquely shaped and have colors not found in other orchids like green and near black. Like cattleya, they prefer very bright light and most like warm temperatures. The nobile Dendrobiums, however, like cooler temperatures and require a dry and cool rest in the winter to form flower buds for spring. Dendrobium can range in very tall plants to miniatures which lend themselves to windowsill much more easily. All Dendrobium like to be grown in rather small pots for the size of the plant.

Boat Orchids, Cymbidium, is another favorite of mine with rather large flowers. They can be difficult to grow and flower due to their size and temperature requirements but with current breeding they are becoming easier to grow for the home grower. Plant size is being reduced to a more manageable size but also there are “warm growers” that don’t need a temperature shock to induce flowering. They do need

bright light and some space as most are still too big for the windowsill.

In addition to the basic cultural information above, there are a few other ingredients that help grow a beautiful plant. Most orchids appreciate humidity above 50% this can be achieved by grouping plants together, a humidifier or an indoor greenhouse tent. You can provide air movement with a ceiling fan or an oscillating fan in the growing area. I caution against using the popular “ice cube a week” method to water orchids. Instead, use tepid water to saturate the entire root mass when the potting medium is dry to the touch and an orchid fertilizer can be used once a month to feed.

There are many tips and tricks that can make you a successful orchid grower I encourage you to check out our Orchid Delirium exhibit, at Powell Gardens, that begins in March as well as our Orchid Symposium. More information and dates are available on our website, powellgardens.org.

I also encourage you to check out our local orchid society, the Orchid Society of Greater Kansas City and the American Orchid Society. Happy Growing!

Above: Cattleya hybrid

Above: Moth Orchid Phalaenopsis

Below: Dancing Ladies

Above: Dendrobium hybrid

Above: Cattleya hybrid

Below: Dendrobium hybrid

Above: Cattleya hybrid

Above: Cattleya hybrid

Above: Pansy Orchid Miltoniopsis

Below: Lady Slipper Paphiopedilum

Rose Report

What needs to be done in the rose garden in February?

First, roses continue to need moisture during the winter, about one inch of precipitation a month. Snow and rain can be supplemented by watering on a warm day if the ground is not frozen. Second, if the protective mulch has settled, supplement it with additional mulch to maintain an 8- to 12-inch layer covering the crown of the bush. Third, check for rodent damage and small rodents nesting in the protective mulch. Further information can be found at www.kansascityrosesociety.org/rose-care-calendar. Fourth, there is still time to order new plants online for spring planting. Information about roses grown in the Laura Conyers Smith Municipal Rose Garden at Loose Park can be found at: www.kcrsroselibrary.com.

Where did our roses come from?

All roses have been bred from wild roses, of which there are over 100 species spread across the Northern Hemisphere, i.e., North American, Europe, Northern Africa, and Asia. There are 12 species of wild roses found in Kansas and 14 species in Missouri. Nine of these species roses are found in both states. Wild roses usually have five petals and are a shade of pink or white. This group is known as Species Roses.

The Old Garden Roses (OGRs), roses in existence prior to 1867, are the result of pollination between species resulting in natural hybrids. This process was enhanced by breeders in Europe planting different varieties of roses near each other to allow cross pollination by wind and insects. These roses were generally cold hardy, often had stiff canes supporting an upright flower, but they only bloomed once in the spring and the colors were limited to lavender, white, or shades of pink. Rose breeding was greatly enhanced by the importation of roses from China to Europe in the late

18th and early 19th centuries. Four varieties, ‘Slater’s Crimson China’, ‘Parson’s Pink China’, ‘Hume’s Blush Tea-Scented China’, and ‘Park’s Yellow Tea-Scented China’,

GLENN HODGES Master Rosarian

were the primary varieties used for breeding. Although these varieties were cold sensitive and had weak canes, they were reblooming and added red and yellow to the color

palette. The combination of the characteristics of the European roses with those of the Chinese roses produced many new varieties. The American Rose Society (ARS) recognizes 21 classes of OGRs.

Modern roses were recognized with the introduction of the hybrid tea, ‘La France’, in 1867. The development of modern roses was enhanced by improved breeding techniques, which allowed both the pollen parent (male) and the seed parent (female) to be known. With better control and knowledge of rose genetics, a vast array of modern roses has been developed. The ARS recognizes 14 classes of modern roses, including Hybrid Teas, Grandifloras, Floribundas, Miniatures, Minifloras, Shrubs, Large Flowered Climbers, and many more.

The wide spectrum of colors, bloom form, bloom time, fragrance, size, growth habit, and disease resistance make the rose, a multistemmed shrub that can provide color in the garden all season long, a versatile option for every sunny spot in the garden.

Glenn is an Extension Master Gardener in Johnson County, KS, an American Rose Society (ARS) Master Rosarian, and an ARS Accredited Horticulture Judge. He has been growing roses in Lenexa, KS since 1974 and successfully exhibiting roses since 1998.

The OGR Harison’s Yellow (1824) brought by the pioneers across America. Also known as the ‘Yellow Rose of Texas’ and the ‘Oregon Trail Rose.’

Rosa acicularis (1895), a wild rose found from the Arctic Circle to Kansas.

‘Bees Knees’ (1998) an example of the beautiful form and color of a modern rose.

Photos by Glenn Hodges.

Healthy Yards Expo promotes green lawn and garden practices

The Eleventh Healthy Yards Expo on Saturday, March 11, can help you make greener choices for your yards and homes. This free Earth-friendly lawn and garden event is from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Shawnee Civic Centre, located at 13817 Johnson Drive in Shawnee. The expo is free to attend.

The expo highlights many simple and easy environmentallyfriendly practices that can be done to achieve a nice landscape. Johnson County K-State Research and

• Talk with city representatives to find out what’s going on in your neighborhood and learn about cost share programs for establishing rain garden and rain barrels.

• Listen to informative speakers on topics such as native plants, composting, organic gardening and edible landscaping

• Kids can enjoy a free performance by Stone Lion Puppet Theatre with their show, The Little Red Hen.

an Earth-friendly home, lawn and garden event

Extension is teaming with Johnson County Stormwater Management and the cities of Overland Park, Lenexa, Olathe, Shawnee and the Unified Government of Wyandotte County to present the event.

Local businesses, non-profits, city and county departments will offer seminars and tips helping make greener choices. “The expo promotes eco-friendly practices and provides education so that you can do your part for clean water, air and healthy soils while maintaining an attractive landscape,” said Dennis Patton, horticulture agent for Johnson County Extension.

Visitors to the Expo can:

• Enter to win door prizes –such as rain barrels and compost bins

• Get a free tree seedling (while supplies last)

• Visit with Johnson County KState Research and Extension Master Gardeners and local plant societies for expert advice on gardening and plant cultivation.

Free soil tests

Johnson County residents get one free soil test, compliments of Johnson County Stormwater Management and Johnson County KState Extension. It is important to know the nutrient levels in order to grow healthy plants and protect the water quality in our local streams and lakes. Bring your soil sample to the expo. Learn how to take a soil sample by visiting the website.

For more information on the Healthy Yard Expo, visit www. johnson.k-state.edu or call 913715-7000.

PLANTS ON YOUR PLATE Mango

use a spoon to scoop the cubes of fruit from the peel. Nibbling the fruit from the center stone is your reward for your preparation efforts! If you have overripe mangoes that don’t cooperate with the above method, peel and remove the fruit in whatever way possible and puree in a blender or food processor with a small amount of lemon juice and freeze in ice cube trays to use later.

Mangoes boast an abundance of nutrients, including vitamins A, C, and K which are important for

Mango Salsa

MAKES 8 SERVINGS

As we sit in the midst of winter (according to the calendar, though maybe not the weather) our options for local produce are limited, unless you have a greenhouse. Since most of the options in the grocery store don’t reflect seasonal prices, I find myself reaching for fruits or vegetables that just make me happy and one of those is mangos. While I love the flavor of mangoes, I don’t like dealing with them, so I tend to grab them when I know my daughter will be around, because she is skilled at preparing them.

Mangoes were first grown in India some 5000 years ago and is a symbol of love. The paisley pattern, developed in India, is said to be inspired by the shape of the mango. As travel increased, mango seeds were shared across the Middle East and Africa between 300 and 400 AD. In the 1600s, Spanish explorers, brought mangoes to South America and Mexico. Commercial mango production in the United States started in the early 1900s and the fruit are only grown

successfully in California, Florida, Hawaii, and Puerto Rico. The major world-wide producers of mangos are Mexico, Ecuador, Peru, and Brazil.

Mangoes are one of the most widely consumed fruits in the world. One of the six main varieties—Tommy Atkins, Honey, Kent, Keitt, Haden and Francis—are typically available year-round. Botanically, mangoes are a drupe, more commonly known as a stone fruit, due to their central stone which contains a single seed. When selecting mangoes, look for plump fruits that are slightly soft when pressed with a finger. Avoid those fruits that are wrinkled or sticky with sap on the skin. If a mango is not soft, it can be placed in a brown paper bag to hasten the ripening.

Firm mangoes are easier to prepare than soft fruit. Start by slicing about ½ inch on each side of the stem, which should make the knife go just around the center stone. With each half of fruit, make cross cuts about ½ inch wide, but do not cut through the skin. Then

DENISE SULLIVAN Nutrition Ninja

immune, vascular, and bone health. Minerals such as potassium and magnesium are beneficial in management of hypertension. The dietary fiber and amylase compounds in mangoes are beneficial to digestive health.

Mangoes make a delicious addition to a fruit salad or a smoothie, using frozen puree. Our favorite way to enjoy them is in salsa. The recipe below makes a wonderful accompaniment to fish or chicken, or just scooped up with some fresh baked corn chips.

INGREDIENTS

3 mangos, ripe but still firm

1 cup chopped red bell pepper

½ cup chopped red onion

¼ cup finely chopped jalapeno pepper

2 Tablespoons lime juice

2 Tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro

Wash hands and work surfaces with warm soapy water. Wash all produce with warm water before chopping.

Holding the mango with the stem at the top, slice down just to the side of the stem. Then make another slice, parallel to the first, on the other side of the stem. The goal is to create two halves, leaving the pit in the center slice.

Next, add vertical and horizontal cuts to each half to create a grid, without slicing all the way through the skin.

Finally, use a knife or spoon to scoop out the cubes of mango. In a medium sized bowl, combine mango, bell pepper, onion, and jalapeno. Stir to combine. Add lime juice and cilantro and stir well.

Chill at least 30 minutes before serving. Refrigerate leftovers.

NUTRITION INFORMATION

Calories: 48, Total Fat: .3, Saturated Fat: .1g, Sodium: 2mg, Carbohydrates: 12g, Fiber: 1.5g, Protein: .8g

Recipe adapted from Cooking Matters, analyzed by verywellfit.com.

Denise Sullivan (@MUExtJacksonCo) is a Nutrition and Health Education Specialist for MU Extension in the Urban West Region, serving Jackson and Platte Counties. For research based nutrition and food safety information and programs, call 816-482-5850 or visit https:// extension2.missouri.edu/.

For Home and Garden...

Euston Hardware 6955 Tomahawk Rd Prairie Village, KS 66208 (913) 262-1405

Euston Hardware 453 E Red Bridge Rd Kansas City, MO 64131 (816) 216-7197

Packs Hardware 116 N 169 Highway Smithville, MO 64089 (816) 532-0525

Garden Design with Maintenance in Mind

The K-State Research and Extension Marais des Cygnes District Master Gardeners Present: 6th Annual Spring Gardening Symposium in Paola, Kansas

February 25, 2023

9:00 am – 3:30 pm

$45 registration fee

Check-in: 8:30 am

This event is open to all! The registration fee includes: A gourmet boxed lunch, snacks, and all printed reference materials.

Registration and payment are only available online and due by February 15. Space is limited! Here is the link to the online registration: https://tinyurl.com/ MdCEMGGardenSymposium

Note: Payment for Symposium will show up as from MdCExtension@gmail.com Registration is not refundable.

The Lighthouse Church 1402 E. 303rd St., Paola, KS 66071

(Park and enter on west side) Driving directions on registration link.

“Know Before You Grow” Stacie Campbell, Marais des Cygnes EMG

“Winning the Weed Wars” Lenora Larson, Marais des Cygnes EMG

“Native Plant Landscaping: Best Management Practices” Brad Guhr, Director of Prairie Restoration, Dyck Arboretum

“Maintenance for the Aging Gardener”

Kevin Nelson, Douglas Co EMG

EARTH RIGHT SUPER STUFF® is the perfect product to apply in spring, especially before a rain. Prepare the soil now for a better lawn and great gardens.

Planting with THE MUSHROOM STUFF® will quick start your spring gardens, shrubs & trees. On flowering plants increase blooms. Use in containers too!

Our SURE BLOOM® NATURAL & SURE BLOOM® 6-7-6 contain vitamins, trace minerals, enzymes & organic acids not found in commercial fertilizers. Experience great results in containers & gardens, around trees & shrubs & on the lawn.

For information on products call us at 913-492-2992. If you want to have our products applied contact Tobin

GARDEN CALENDAR

February list of what to do in the garden.

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.

FLOWERS

• Check fall-planted perennials, 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 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 broom.

VEGETABLES AND FRUITS

• Create garden layouts to assist with 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

MY GARDEN (Use this space to list additional tasks to accomplish in your garden.)

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•

•

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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.

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 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.

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.

Upcoming Garden Events Participate in the Great Backyard Bird Count

Using Native Plants in the Ornamental Garden

Thurs, Feb 2, 11:30a; via Zoom. Sponsored by Wyandotte County Extension Master Gardeners. Presented by Lenora Larson. We’ll de-bunk the many myths surrounding native plants, then discuss garden design and horticultural strategies to civilize these potentially unruly plants. Lenora Larson is a Marais des Cygnes Extension Master Gardener and a member of local chapters of both the Idalia Butterfly Society and Kansas Native Plant Society. For more information: https://bit. ly/31ABt1g.

The Garden Club of Shawnee

Thurs, Feb 2, 7p; at Shawnee Town 1927 Town Hall, 11600 Johnson Dr, Shawnee, KS. This meeting will be about house plants. As always, we will serve drinks and snacks, and nifty door prizes will be given away. Guests are welcome! Please visit our website gardenclubofshawnee.org and our Facebook page for more information.

Raytown Garden Club

Tues, Feb 7, 10a; at Connection Point Church, 10500 E State Rte 350, Raytown, MO 64138. The program scheduled will be “Adaptive Gardening, Techniques to Help You Garden into your Nineties.” Guests are always welcome. For more information please check out our Facebook page: https://www.facebook. com/RaytownGardenClub.

Mushrooms 101

Sat, Feb 11, 2p; at Year-Round Garden, 1201 NE Rice Rd, Lee’s Summit, MO 64086. Length: 1-hour (60 minutes of instruction + time for Q&A). Join us for an educational session designed for anyone interested in growing their own mushrooms. Take a stepby-step journey through the process of cultivating mushrooms from a spore syringe, including grain jar, substrate and monotub preparation. Register Online at https://www. year-roundgarden.com/mushrooms or call (816) 600-2300.

Pruning Fruit Trees Workshop

Two workshops, one on Feb 18 and one on Feb 26, 1-4p both days; at Turkey Creek Trees located near Meriden, KS. The pruning workshop will be a hands-on demonstration of proper fruit tree pruning techniques. Proper pruning increases fruit production and helps maintain healthier trees. Other topics such as planting, protecting your new trees from wildlife damage and disease issues will also be discussed as well. Cost is $50/ participant. Space is limited to 10 participants/ day. To get more information regarding registration or the workshop please email chris@ turkeycreektrees.com.

Olathe Garden & Civic Club Meeting & Flower Arranging Workshop

Tues, Feb 21, 1-2:30p; at Grace Church, 11485 S Ridgeview Rd, Olathe KS. *Free to attend and open to the public, Club membership not required.* Please join us for our monthly club meeting and flower arranging workshop! Flowers will be provided, please bring your own vase or other small vessel.

Paola Spring Symposium

Sat, Feb 25, 9am-3:30pm; at the Lighthouse Church, 1402 E 303rd St, Paola, KS 66071.

“Garden Design with Maintenance in Mind” will be presented by the Marais des Cygnes

Extension Master Gardeners. The $45 tickets will be sold online only. Don’t delay, as we always sell out early! Presentations include Stacie Campbell discussing how to match your garden’s design and your maintenance abilities. Are weeds your nemesis? Lenora Larson shares how to win the weed wars. Brad Guhr from Dyck Arboretum debunks the myth of native plants requiring little or no maintenance and Kevin Nelson considers maintenance strategies for the aging gardener. Here is the link to register: https://tinyurl. com/MdCEMGGardenSymposium

Leawood Garden Club

Tues, Feb 28, 10:30am; at Cure of Ars Catholic Church, 9401 Mission Rd, Leawood, KS 66206. For more info, visit the group’s Facebook page. Laura Dickenson, an American Rose Society Consulting Rosarian is scheduled to speak on “A measure at Hand.” A Winter Bake Sale will be another highlight of this month’s meeting.

Healthy Yards Expo

Sat, Mar 11, 9a-2p; at Shawnee Civic Centre, 13817 Johnson Dr, Shawnee, KS. Local businesses, non-profits, city and county departments will offer seminars and tips helping make greener choices. Johnson County residents get one free soil test, compliments of Johnson County Stormwater Management and Johnson County K-State Extension. For more information on the Healthy Yard Expo, visit www.johnson.k-state.edu or call 913715-7000. This is a free event.

Flower, Home & Garden Show

Sat, Mar 25, 10a-4p; at Heritage Event & Arts Center, 109 Delaware St, Leavenworth, KS. Leavenworth County Master Gardeners will be making presentations throughout the event. www.heritagecenter-leavenworth. com; 913-682-2122

Garden Obsession | Kansas City Garden Symposium

Sat, Mar 25, Rockhurst University. The Kansas City Garden Symposium presented by Gardeners Connect. We bring to the stage the best in local, regional and national garden experts and talent to educate and inspire gardeners of all skill levels. “Garden Obsession” is all about the gardens and plants that entice, beguile and make gardeners obsess. Three speakers. Six presentations. Lunch. Gift bag. A day of gardening delight you won’t want to miss. For details and to sign up, visit GardenersConnect.org/symposium.

Kansas City Rose Society

Sat, Mar 25, 10am; at the Loose Park Garden Center. “Aphids, Japanese Beetles, and Rose Midge: How to Identify and Control Rose Pests,” by Dr. Raymond A. Cloyd: Professor and Extension Specialist in Horticultural Entomology/Plant Protection, Department of Entomology, Kansas State University (Manhattan, KS). After the program, all are encouraged to join Dana Flemming, KC Parks Landscape Technician/Head Rosarian, in the Laura Conyers Smith Rose Garden to learn about the organic products used there and to learn how to plant a bare root rose bush.

Promote plant sales, club meetings, classes, and other gardening events for FREE! Send details to: elizabeth@kcgmag.com. Deadline for publishing in the March issue is February 5.

Join birders around the world counting the bird population at the Great Backyard Bird Count starting Friday, February 17th through Monday, February 20th, 2023. The data collected serves as important information to scientists observing the changes in bird behavior possibly due to climate change. Anyone can participate by counting the bird species and numbers in your own back yard or at your bird feeders. Your data should be reported using the GBBC web site, an e-Bird app or a Merlin app (all free downloads).

Surveying as a group is much more fun! Come join other birders for the 13th year of this event at the Trailside Center, 9901 Holmes Rd., Kansas City, MO 64131 on the following days and times for a one-mile hike along Indian Creek Trail:

Saturday, February 18th at 9:30 a.m.

Sunday, February 19th at 3:00 p.m.

Monday, February 20th at 9:30 a.m.

Meet at the Trailside Center Building to begin; be sure to dress for the weather that day including footwear suitable for hiking; bring binoculars if you have them. All levels of birders are welcome. This event is hosted by the Osage Trails Chapter of the Missouri Master Naturalists. A day event may be canceled if weather is very intolerable.

Questions: Sara at (816) 356-6986.

To read more about the Great Backyard Bird Count: https://www. birdcount.org/.

This time of year, natural seed sources are harder for our feathery singers to find.

You’ll find a great selection of bird seed at all of our locations. Help them prepare for their upcoming recital as they herald in spring.

Feeding Nature’s Choir Preparing for Spring

While we eagerly await the arrival of spring, there are projects you can do now.

Clean and disinfect clippers and loppers

Sharpen blades including the lawn mower

Cut back ornamental grasses and perennials

Get Inspired- Check out our new seed racks for old favorites or must have new varieties