KCG May24

We’ve been admiring our spring garden. The peonies are loaded with stunning flowers, enough to cut and share with neighbors. Bees are buzzing around the sweet nectar of holly blossoms. And all of the boxwood that anchor the landscape have a fresh flush of spring green growth. The early spring perennials like columbine and bleeding heart returned full of vigor. And the dogwood and crabapple trees put on a terrific seasonal display. Yes, the garden is alive and well. There’s no better sense of wonder than to witness the splendor of spring.

On the other hand, there are too many examples of disappointment. The number of plants in our garden that did not return is difficult to understand. Hosta, for example, is a hard one for Mr. Gardener. These were hardy, well-established, and in good health. Some that did come back, did so as a miniature version. There are hellebores, again well-established plants that did not return. Why? What in the world is going on? The winter was fairly mild. Although, we are sorely lacking precipitation. If I recall, we never did reach adequate rainfall amounts last year so drought conditions prevail.

Trying to deduce a cause is nearly impossible for regular gardeners like us. So I turn to those smarter than me.

Instinctively, my first call or email would be to my longtime friend Dennis Patton at the Johnson County Extension office. He knows everything, and is always willing to share his knowledge. But alas, like a punch in the gut, I remember his passing. I am caught off guard, and the tears of grief begin to fall. For a little while, I allow the tears, cherish the memories, and end with gratitude for the honor of knowing this humble man.

In this issue we pay tribute to Dennis Patton (pages 4 and 5), by sharing some of the comments told by colleagues and gardeners about his influence on them. From pruning shrubs to kindness shown to others, we are in awe of his extraordinary impact. My favorite quote is, “Of all the things that Dennis grew, kindness was the perennial crop.”

The lessons I’ve learned over the years by working with Dennis are more than I can count. Yet, here are a few I attribute to him. Be kind to the planet, be patient with your neighbor, and be willing to share your experiences with others. Be

practical, not only in the garden, but also in life. There is no reward for doing too much.

Let’s honor Dennis’ memory, not only in the landscape, but also in life, with patience, kindness, and love. May he rest in eternal peace.

I’ll see you in the garden!

From icy pink to easy, breezy light blue, Let’s Dance Sky View reblooming hydrangea brings a sunrise-inspired palette to your landscape or garden. And, of course, it has been trialed and tested to ensure it blooms reliably every season, year after year.

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A Tribute to

Those of us in the gardening community meet many like-minded people eager for beautiful gardens and plentiful harvests. We share our challenges looking for sympathy and solutions, and we report our successes to educate and inspire others.

There is one such individual that stands out above the rest, one that deserves our recognition, Dennis Patton. Many knew him as the K-State Research and Extension horticulture agent in Johnson County. Spanning more than three decades and with the heart of a teacher, Dennis taught novice and seasoned gardeners alike, answering their questions with honest and practical advice. So committed was he about sharing science-based knowledge, that he eagerly partnered with us in launching this magazine, The Kansas City Gardener

Mike Cavanaugh, owner and publisher, describes his encounter with Dennis. “With an idea and a folded Florida newspaper under my arm, I first met with Dennis to see if my idea was realistic.” That newspaper published the monthly garden calendar provided by the local extension agent, and that’s what sparked the concept of a monthly gardening magazine. “I walked into his office and said ‘I want to start a local gardening magazine based on this.’” Without hesitation, Dennis smiled and said ‘I’m on board.’” That was 28 years ago, and we gained all the reassurance needed to establish this gardening magazine. Dennis’ enthusiasm and support have been boundless and invaluable.

Sadly, Dennis passed away in March and we mourn his loss. To his family, friends, and coworkers, we send our deepest condolences. You can read more about his life and legacy at www. legacy.com.

We have collected sentiments from those in the gardening community who were impacted by Dennis, and we share as many as possible here. Join us in honoring Dennis. May his influence be memorialized in our gardens.

Dennis liked to hard prune. Pruning tells a plant to grow. If you wack back a struggling plant, it may re-emerge more beautifully!

Janice Ward, EMG class of 2010

Dennis encouraged me to participate in sharing my garden on the Johnson County Master Gardeners Tour in 2016 and 2023, Tour of Private Gardens.

Bonnie Duma, Johnson County Extension Master Gardener

Life is too short for ugly plants. This Dennis quote has given me permission to pull garden shrubs/plants that are struggling.

Rhonda Nelson, EMG

Each time I sent him pics of examples of bad pruning, mulching or fertilizer on walks he found opportunities to work them into lessons.

Paul Trautman, EMG

Of all the things that Dennis grew, kindness was the perennial crop. Always. Even in the middle of IMGC, he stopped to greet my 80-year-old mom.

Marie Hunter, Johnson County Extension Master Gardener

When Dennis used the words ‘it depends,’ he opened my eyes and my mind to an eternal quest for discovery in all things about life.

Cindy Hobbs, Jo Co EMG, Chair of West Flanders Garden, Advisory Board vice-chair, IMGC Conference Registration Chair

I had several plants I didn’t like. One day Dennis said it’s OK to ripe them out. He gave us permission to remove the ugly plants.

Jo Long, EMG 2012

Dennis influenced everything I do in the garden from pruning to planting to maintenance. Repeat after Dennis: ‘Right plant, right place.’ and ‘It depends.’

Cheryl Howard, EMG

Dennis was kind enough to stop by my job (Boulevard Brewery I was responsible for indoor plants), helped save several dying cactuses in Beer Hall.

Bob Clark, Jo Co EMG

When I moved here from NY, I wrote to about 50 gardening leaders asking for guidance. Dennis was one of two who replied. To me he represents Kansas.

Cynthia Gillis, Jo Co Master Gardener

I worked with Dennis for 30 years. He was always so supportive and helpful in the management of our gardens at Shawnee Town. He will be missed.

Susan Weber, Master Gardener and chairman of Shawnee Town Herb garden

Use of the K-State Mesonet to check rainfall amounts and soil temperatures in my area. It’s a great help in these challenging times as gardener.

Ruth Coleman, EMG volunteer

He was always quick to help when we had gardening questions. I was always grateful for his wisdom. He had a talent and will be missed.

Julie Ramsey, Office Professional, Marais des Cygnes District, Paola Office

I always enjoyed Dennis Patton’s articles in KC Gardener and the Star. His locally focused information was very helpful to all in the metro area.

Phyllis Carlyle, Missouri gardener

Dennis always encouraged people to try! Don’t be afraid to try a new plant, a new technique, and no question was dumb. He was a lifelong learner.

Jennifer Boudreaux, Johnson County resident and Extension office fan

I learned my love of pruning from Dennis Patton. He wasn’t afraid to rejuvenate shrubs with a heavy pruning.

Marlene Weishaar, Jo Co EMG

He was always positive and willing to share information, a helping hand, or an encouraging word.

Andrea Burns (Ford County), colleague to Dennis

Dennis gave me permission to remove plants that I didn’t like without feeling guilty if I couldn’t find someone to receive them.

Shannon B, EMG class of 2020

Dennis Patton

Dennis connected me with Mary Buehrer at Center of Grace Community Garden, so that I could learn more about growing vegetables. Thank You!

Natalie Banks, K-State EMG Program Volunteer

My husband and I saw Dennis at K-State Research and Extension events, and we always sought him out to ask questions about the plants in our garden.

David and Melody Aldrich, Overland Park KSU grads

Dennis was always as curious as I was to look at something under a microscope. He was a patient, kind teacher with a wicked sense of humor!

Elizabeth Blanchard Hills, Jo Co EMG, Hotline volunteer

If it’s dying or doesn’t belong, don’t be afraid to chop it down.

Lynn Martens-Hopson, Jo Co Extension Master Gardener

I hosted our garden for a Master Gardener tour only and worked with Dennis on details for our event. He was helpful and super fun to work with!

Linda Friedel, master gardener

We were part of Dennis Patton’s last class of 2022-2023, and first in-person class after Covid. We gleaned many years of gardening wisdom from Dennis.

Bill and Rose Burgweger

Dennis helped start up the WIC garden at the Johnson County Health Department site in Olathe. He was integral to planning and planting the produce.

Laura Drake, WIC Coordinator for Johnson County and WIC garden member

Dennis was the gold standard of extension agents, working on the county, state and national level to promote horticulture. He will be missed.

Janet B. Carson, Emeritus Horticulture Specialist University of Arkansas

Shade Tree Selection. After losing two large trees, I wanted Oaks. Dennis suggested one Oak and one Sugar Maple to provide a necessary variety. Sold!

Michele Janson, Master Gardener

Dennis graciously donated a lot of his time at the Arboretumboth as a volunteer and as a presenter to other volunteers on gardening topics.

Kim Alvarez, Volunteer Coordinator at the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens

Dennis was a master pruner. He taught me how, when and where to prune everything. I’m no longer afraid to tackle those shrubs. Thank you Dennis!

Laura Sloan, extension master gardener, class of 2010

Dennis encouraged all the demonstration gardens growing vegetables to donate to food pantries. For this I will always be grateful. His lasting legacy.

Nancy Chapman, Extension Master Gardener

Re a young tree that was in bad shape. Dennis recommended pruning it with one cut to the base of the trunk. Some plants aren’t worth trying to save.

Lori Dickey, Johnson County Extension Master Gardener

Considered adding hoop houses to community garden, Dennis asked, ‘Why don’t you want to take a break so you can return refreshed in spring?’ So no hoops.

Melissa Hanlin, EMG, Lone Elm Community Garden

Dennis helped me make the great connections that I have now in KCK, after my move from the City of Shawnee. Stormwater in KCK will benefit from him.

Jonathan Wiles, Friend and Collaborative Partner

Dennis spoke to the Central Exchange Gardening Club several times over the years. We all appreciated his wisdom and

easy manner.

Maggie Shine, former member Central Exchange gardeners club

When I think of Dennis Patton, I will forever remember a field of colorful flowers in his field trials.

Sarah Norris, horticultural student

Dennis helped with garden ideas, we shared our farm roots and his chaperone advice to this naive 4-H leader. That twinkle in his eye.

Nancy Carr, co-worker with Dennis for 35 years

Dennis’s passion for gardening and community was contagious. He guided me on KC’s unique needs and empowering volunteers within Extension programs.

Tamra Reall, colleague and friend

When I was a new Master Gardener and working the Hot Line for the first times, Dennis would come by and help find answers for people and share ideas.

Terry Davis, MGGKC co-worker

Over the years Dennis was so helpful at the Master Gardener Tours for example saying to divide a perennial when it was dead in the middle.

Roberta Minor, Inspired Reader of his Articles

I volunteer at the Monet Garden. Dennis taught me pruning with gusto. His style of pruning made me cringe, but I was never afraid to prune again.

Adair Weingart Johnson County Master Gardener

Dennis was a practical gardener. When he saw a beautiful yet struggling tree, he said remove it and plant a new tree that you’ll enjoy for decades.

Pam Geer, Jo Co Extension Master Gardener

Dennis took the longview. A fund was set up in 2004 for initial planning costs to sponsor IMGC which was hosted by Johnson County EMGs in 2023.

Glenn Hodges, Johnson County EMG since 1999

On the hotline, Dennis taught me that being a Master Gardener meant doing the research to provide real answers; my own green thumb was not enough.

Kat Arndt, JoCo Master Gardener

Dennis, giving a zoom presentation on good plants for KC area encouraged questions. Next day he e-mailed answer to my question. ALWAYS happy to teach.

Linda Wells, Johnson County Master Gardener

Living in Lenexa with lots of trees I learned how damaging squirrels can be. I asked Dennis what he did. ‘I teach them how to swim!’ And explained.

Jayne Stone, EMG

Dennis inspired me to add ornamental grasses to my gardens. He also introduced me to Blond Ambition Eyelash Grass, a short grass simply beautiful!

Betty James, KCMO Master Gardener

Dennis advised and helped me through my 25 years at MidAmerica Nazarene University, as well as my first year at JCCC. He was a good friend, and great help.

Dave VanDusen, Extension resource

I was reluctant to remove bad plants whether they were worthy or not. That is why ‘Life Is Too Short For Ugly Plants’ t-shirt is so meaningful to me.

Judy Jackson, Master Gardener since 2000

Dennis was the expert I consulted and quoted for my freelance stories in gardening magazines over the years. He was never too busy to help.

Mary-Margaret Simpson, freelance writer

To read all comments received, go to KCGMAG.COM.

A MESSAGE FROM ANTHONY

With ornamentals flourishing, annual flowers finding their homes, and profuse sunshine glowing over lush sceneries, I couldn’t think of a better month of the year than May to commemorate longtime Johnson County Extension Horticulture agent Dennis Patton.

When I first began working in K-State Research and Extension three years ago, it was clear from the beginning that Dennis was a well-respected and highly revered individual not only locally and within the Extension system, but nationwide and beyond. Getting to know him over the years, that respect and reverence held for him by others only became more evident, and it became more and more instilled in me as well.

Dennis was an outstanding mentor, a wonderful colleague, and a great friend to me. While his loss will be sorely felt and processed for much time to come, I can only try to honor my friend by continuing what he established here in The Kansas City Gardener with timely, research-backed, educational morsels to better your gardening practices. As Dennis would love to say, “Life is too short for ugly plants.” Let’s continue to make those plants beautiful together – for him.

MULCH PROPERLY

Question: I keep hearing one thing and then seeing another when it comes to mulching landscapes. What is the proper way to apply mulch?

Answer: While it unfortunately may be common in select areas to apply a foot or more of mulch onto trees and landscapes, this is not recommended and actually harms plants. The term, ‘donuts, not volcanoes,’ should be thought of when it comes to mulching trees. Mulch should not be touching the trunks of trees because, if it is, moisture held in the organic material will begin rotting the bark. Ultimately, with the bark gone, this will lead to the

Ask the Experts

cessation of sap flow. Remember, just as you wouldn’t bury the trunk of a tree in soil, you do not want to bury it in mulch either.

As for mulching depth, anything beyond 3-4 inches on both trees and landscapes will begin to create a mat of sorts, which will be hydrophobic in nature and deter water from reaching the soil and getting to the plants. While some opt to layer several feet of mulch onto their plants for ease of labor, ultimately this will be to their undoing as the plants decline and eventually need replacement.

PEACH TREE FAILED TO BLOOM

Question: I was so disappointed when I saw that my peach tree didn’t blossom this year. Why is this? Have I done something wrong?

Answer: There are several different factors that can lead to a fruit tree not blooming, ultimately preventing fruit development further in the season. Likely, however, it is not you that has done something wrong so much as the environment. In fact, several major peach growers in the area are reporting the exact same issue this year.

Fruit trees have something known as “critical temperatures” for their buds. Depending on the growth stage buds are in, they become more and more prone to damage from cold spells, with flower/ fruit loss being the ultimate result. “False springs” as we have been seeing this year, are unfortunate

harbingers of lost fruit, as the prolonged warm periods, followed by cold, are exactly what is needed to cause bud damage. Furthermore, before buds even begin developing, they can still sustain loss from exceptionally cold temperatures.

Buds aside, be sure also to pruning your trees while they’re dormant in the early spring and not over-fertilizing them. Both of these practices mitigate overgrowth of limbs and foliage, and with the ultimate goal of fruit trees being a harvestable crop, nutrients will be allocated toward that fruit instead of

overgrowth. As always, a soil test can assist you in knowing where the nutrients of your soil currently stand.

SPRING BLOOMING BULB MAINTENANCE

Question: My spring bulbs stopped flowering months ago, but my neighbor keeps telling me not to cut them back yet. Why is this? Do they even know what they’re talking about?

Answer: If you are looking to have your spring bulbs perennialize and come back next year, then yes, your neighbor is correct. While the blooms may be long gone, the carbohydrates stored within the leaves of the plants are still present. These are essential, as they gradually return to the bulbs, enabling them to have enough energy to survive through the year and subsequently regenerate through the winter.

It should be noted when prac-

ticing this, however, the bulbs will still continue to gradually decline in vigor over the years. Remember, the larger the bulb, the bigger the bloom. With less and less carbohydrates returning to the bulb through growing seasons, the plant will continually decline. Eventually, it may be more desirable to just replant instead.

EDUCATION IN AN HOUR

Question: I’m always looking for quick and easy ways to expand my plant knowledge without breaking the bank or denting my schedule. Do you know of any education available that meets these criteria?

Answer: Why thank you, anonymous person, for this completely random and unexpected opportunity for a shameless plug!

The Kansas State University horticulture Extension agents collaborate on a monthly webinar series known as the “K-State Garden Hour,” which occurs at noon on the first Wednesday of every month. This free webinar covers all topics of gardening, from flowers to fruit to lawns to insects to diseases to wildlife. If you are looking for an easy and inexpensive way to continue learning about facets of local gardening, from the experts themselves, it is a wonderful opportunity for doing so.

Upcoming webinar topics for 2024 present a myriad of gardening areas, including the topics: Understanding Water Sources, Growing Cut Flowers, Cacti and Succulents, Environmentally Sustainable Lawns, Vegetable Garden Season Extension, Kansas Evergreens, Wildlife Mitigation, and Home Hydroponics.

Additionally, if you can’t find the time to watch at noon, every webinar is recorded and posted to K-State Research and Extension’s YouTube page. You can find the entire backlog of webinars (currently standing at 62 presentations) here as well.

Proper mulching under a tree.

Don’t cut back bulb leaves too soon.

Going Wild with Water Gardens

Water gardens attract more wildlife and are more fun than everyday wildflower gardens. That’s because water gardens deliver a non-stop display of dazzling wildlife. Permanent water features with native plants growing in them attract a diversity of micro-organisms like phytoplankton. They are fundamental for a thriving food chain, starting with aquatic insects, frogs, and salamanders, and ending with the occasional northern-banded water snake and snapping turtle. Let’s take a closer look.

Best water gardens include a pool of water at least 2 feet deep. Shallower than this, and the water temperature gets too warm in summer. They are easiest to build when located where water sits in the yard for days. Those places already drain poorly, because of excessive clay soil and/or compaction. Even though soils here are compacted clay, I recommend further compaction using a plate compactor (available for rent at most equipment rental stores) after digging and shaping the bottom of your water feature. Note: All small permanent water gardens are subject to leakage and evaporation, and must be refilled with water monthly.

If your soil drains well, install a thick rubber pond liner to hold water. Be sure the bottom is relatively flat so planted containers stay upright and ring the pool with large flagstone pieces (2 to 3 feet wide) to hide and hold the pond liner edge. Also protect the liner by laying down old carpet between the soil and the liner. Carpet stores are usually willing to give away old carpet.

Water gardens should have good water circulation so that deeper, cool water gets mixed with warmer water at the surface. An aerator or waterfall will sufficiently mix the water and introduce oxygen, a key element for healthy aquatic insects and amphibians (be sure to size

aerators, filters, and waterfalls appropriately). These devices will also prevent excessive algae and duckweed buildup.

Emergent aquatic plants are rooted underwater in the bottom of a soil-lined water garden (in fewer than 2 feet of water), or in submerged containers in a rubber-lined water garden. Aquatic plants are vital for a thriving aquatic ecosystem, because they provide the right habitat (hiding places) for aquatic insects that live underwater like the larvae of dragonflies, damselflies, caddisflies, and mayflies, as well as water boatmen, diving spiders, beetles that take cover in underwater and floating vegetation. Emergent stems provide “ramps” where dragonfly and damselfly nymphs can crawl up, shed their skin, and emerge as winged adults. Many of these invertebrates devour mosquito larvae— and each other—which at times is thrilling to see. I especially love seeing adult dragonflies competing for airspace. These insect predators, and their prey, add much diversity,

SCOTT WOODBURY Horticulturist

and observing them makes water gardening so much fun.

A few favorite emergent aquatic plants include pickerel plant (Pontedaria cordata), arrow-leaf (Sagittaria latifolia), arrow arum (Peltandra virginica), wild canna (Thalia dealbaata), soft rush (Juncus effusus), and hop sedge (Carex lupulina). Floating water lily (Nymphea odorata) is recommended only for use in containers because it quickly takes over soil-bottom water gardens. Planting a diversity of aquatic species when water features are new ensures a healthy balance where all plants are equal in size and cattails won’t become a problem.

In the area just at the edge of the water, where soils are drier, best plants include copper iris (Iris fulva), orange coneflower (Rudbeckia fulgida var. umbrosa), cardinal flower (Lobelia cardinalis), rose turtlehead (Chelone obliqua), palm and fox sedge (Carex muskingumensis and C. vulpinoidea), prairie willow (Salix humilis), and

in larger areas, buttonbush (Cephalanthus occidentalis) or indigo bush (Amorpha fruticosa), which grow 8-10 feet tall and wide.

Like the best things in life, water gardens take effort to maintain. Plants growing in containers need to be divided and replanted every two to three years. Leaf and debris buildup on the bottom should be scooped out every year or two. Empty the pool with a siphon in late June or July, after spring dragonflies and tadpoles have emerged, and if possible, transfer the cleanings to a nearby pond or lake (with permission). There likely are aquatic insects in the muck that can carefully be picked out and returned to the water garden.

The world is so full of wondrous things, so we should all be happy as clams in the mud. Happy gardening!

Note: Some municipalities have rules pertaining to permanent water features. Read up on the requirements in your area before starting this project.

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.

Iris virginica

Photo by Scott Woodbury.

Apply now for Johnson County K-State Extension Master Gardener program

Perfect Gifts for Mom!

If you enjoy gardening, working with others, and having fun while sharing your passion, then the Extension Master Gardener (EMG) program may be just the opportunity for you. Applications are now being accepted for the Johnson County K-State Research and Extension Master Gardener Class of 2024 training program. The application deadline is June 28, 2024.

Training sessions are held every Thursday from September 5th to December 5th, 2024, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. All classes will be conducted in-person and or online. In-person classes will be conducted at the Johnson County Extension office, 11811 South Sunset Drive, Suite 1500, in Olathe. There is a $125 administration fee for those accepted into the class. Class members must be Johnson County residents.

Only 30 applicants are accepted into this prestigious program. Applicants are selected based on gardening and volunteering experience, ability to attend training sessions and volunteer activities, and, most importantly, willingness to commit long-term to the annual volunteer service requirement. Gardeners who join the program bring many different experience levels and interests to the program. If you are a novice gardener, do not let

the title of Extension Master Gardener intimidate you. Your love of gardening and passion for sharing your garden experience is the basis for success.

An orientation session to learn more about the program will be held May 1st, 10:30-11:30 a.m., Room 1070/1075 at 11811 South Sunset Drive, Olathe, KS 66061.

The EMG program, sponsored by K-State Research and Extension, is designed to teach area gardeners about horticulture and allow them to share their knowledge through various gardening-related volunteer projects. Applicants who are selected will receive intensive horticulture-related training from university experts. In return, newly trained recruits must volunteer a minimum of time each year.

EMG volunteers get involved in various projects, including maintaining demonstration gardens, staffing a gardening hotline, and giving presentations through the speakers’ bureau. Youth programs are also another avenue for volunteer participation.

If you are interested in applying for the program or want more information, please contact Johnson County Extension at (913) 7157000 or visit www.johnson.k-state. edu and click on the Extension Master Gardener link for details.

Summer Youth Gardening Program

University of Missouri Extension Master Gardeners of Greater Kansas City is conducting a summer gardening program for youth ages 9-13. In the Garden ‘N Grow Program, youths learn not only vegetable gardening, but also “cultivate” other science, math, and language arts skills and have fun! The goals of this program are to experience the fun of gardening, to enjoy a feeling of success, and to have the satisfaction of sharing harvested food with family and/or local food banks.

The development of the whole child is emphasized as well as team building as they garden. Master Gardeners use cooperative teaching skills to educate youth about seeds, transplants, garden planning and design, site preparation, soils, plant growth and development, costs of production, garden pests, plant health care, human nutrition, food value, food needs in the local community, and horticultural career opportunities. Each Master Gardener is trained by University of Missouri Extension specialists.

The Garden ‘N Grow Program will be held on Mondays and Thursdays from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. from June 3 through August 12, 2024 at Fairview Christian in Gladstone. Registration is required – NO Walk-ins. There is a supply fee of $50 payable by check or cash at registration. The supply fee includes a student workbooks, games and crafts, and some vegetable garden supplies. For more information on the program contact Debbie Johnson at djw603@gmail.com or Cass Sullivan, Extension Master Gardener at cass. sullivan301@gmail.com.

Late Spring Perennial Stars

Classics are classics for a reason. Peonies, iris, lilacs. They deliver a consistent and beautiful show in the late spring, early summer garden. They are standard barriers of what to plant when starting a perennial garden. Often, they hold sentimental value; I have early memories of cutting iris with my mom.

But there are other lesser known late spring perennials and shrubs that will absolutely knock your socks off. They offer great flowers, are low maintenance and they are consistent in our wacky Midwest climate.

Flowering Quince (Chaenomeles) is a gorgeous shrub that blooms in late spring, ours started blooming late March this year. Bloom color ranges from red, orange, coral, peach, pink and white. It is a shrub that can take full sun to part sun. We actually have planted in part shade and it performs great. There are some new varieties on the

market that have a second bloom in the fall, while it’s not as boisterous as the spring show, still very nice.

I often say that I am a lover of lime green, it brightens the garden and draws the eye to it. Deutzia ‘Chardonnay Pearls’ shines in the garden. It has dainty white, longlasting flowers. A great fit for a smaller garden or landscape, only getting two to three feet wide and tall. Full sun to part sun is best for its success.

Tough perennials are always on gardeners’ most wanted lists. What can I plant, give it a little love, but not too much love, and it will be a showstopper year after year? False Indigo or Wild Indigo (Baptisia) is always a go to, if you have full to part sun spot in your garden. The name makes you think it only comes in blue tones. Actually, the color palette is very diverse. White, yellow, burgundy, pink, blue, lavender, purple, and even a brown tone. They offer a beautiful vase

ANNE WILDEBOOR Horticulturist

shape with strong stems and round green or blue-green leaves. They are native from the east coast to the Midwest, which is another reason they handle our climate with ease. Some varieties can be large, but there are varieties that are smaller in stature. Our largest collection at the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens is in the Erickson Water Garden.

Shade gardening is tougher in different ways than gardening in the blazing sun. Tree roots, smaller selection of plants to choose from, not enough light for bloom production are all challenges. Lungwort (Pulmonaria) is wonderful in the late spring and early summer garden. It blooms when it gets a little more sunlight before the leaves on the trees fill in. Then the foliage takes the show. Leaves come in variations of green, green with white flecks, or mostly all white. It is a multi-season interest plant. Part shade to full shade, only getting six

to twelve inches tall. ‘Shrimps on the Barbie’ is a personal favorite, with its bright hot pink flowers.

Clematis often gets put in the category of huge, monster vines. There are so many options. Small clumping clematis, some that bloom on old wood/new wood, some that bloom multiple times a season, single flowered/double flowered. They can add height to a landscape on a trellis or piece of garden art. Late April, early May is when you will see them starting to bloom. The Monet Garden at the Arboretum has a beautiful showing of different varieties of clematis. This is a great time to get out and enjoy our Midwest weather. Spring into summer is pretty much perfect. Come visit us at the Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens. We are a great resource to see what things are looking like. Enjoy the flowers, take a hike on the trails, or just sit on a bench and enjoy.

Anne Wildeboor, a Kansas State University graduate in Agriculture/Horticulture, has over 20 years of experience in public horticulture, including roles at Powell Gardens and the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens. She loves sharing her passion for plants with the public and working alongside dedicated staff and volunteers.

Clematis

False Indigo Lungwort Flowering Quince

Deutzia ‘Chardonnay Pearls’

573-496-3492, fax: 573-496-3003

www.mowildflowers.net

mowldflrs@socket.net

9814 Pleasant Hill Rd

Jefferson City MO 65109

Meet us at one of these locations in the KC area. Give us your order by Tuesday before a sale, and we will bring it to the location.

Native Plant Sale by Burroughs Audubon at 6212 NW Barry Rd. KC MO 64154. Backyard Bird Center 816-746-1113. Saturday, May 4, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Rotary Youth Camp Native Plant Sale, 22310 NE Colbern Road, Lee’s Summit 64086, Friday, May 10, 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Missouri Prairie Foundation Native Plant Sale at Anita B. Gorman Conservation Discovery Center, 4750 Troost Ave, Kansas City MO 64110. Saturday, May 11, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Please visit our Brazito location at the address above. Week days, 9 to 5 year round. Weekends now till July 7, 9 to 5 Saturdays, noon to 5 Sundays

The Greater Kansas City Water Garden Society Presents Wings Over Water Gardens Water Garden Tour 2024

31st Anniversary Tour

“Wings Over Waters Gardens” is the theme of the summer 2024 tour. The Greater KC Water Garden Society will celebrate our tour on four Saturdays in July and August. The Tour Committee is pulling out all the stops to make the 31st Anniversary Tour unforgettable!

Four Summer Tour Dates scheduled for the following Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Rain or Shine

July 13 Tour #1, Kansas North: Leavenworth, Wyandotte, and Johnson Counties, Kansas, including Kansas City, Kansas and the communities of Westwood, Prairie Village, Mission, Mission Hills, Merriam, Fairway, Shawnee, Lansing, and surrounding areas.

July 20 Tour #2, Missouri South: Missouri south of the Missouri River, including Kansas City, Missouri and the communities of Raytown, Independence, Sugar Creek, Blue Springs, Lee’s Summit, Grandview, Peculiar, Raymore, Belton, and surrounding areas.

Aug 3 Tour #3, Kansas South: Johnson County Kansas, including the communities of Lenexa, Leawood, Overland Park, Olathe, Louisburg, and surrounding areas.

Aug 10 Tour #4, Missouri North: Missouri north of the Missouri River, including the communities of Kearney, Smithville, North Kansas City, Weatherby Lake, Parkville, Riverside, and surrounding areas.

Tickets for all 4 tours are $10. Good for all tour dates and locations. Children under 14 attend free. Purchase tickets through Eventbrite by scanning the QR code, or visit kcwatergardens. com/2024-tour. More information about the tour is available on the WGS website www.kcwatergardens.com/2024-tour, or on the Water Garden Society of Greater Kansas City Facebook page.

Mother’s Day, Father’s Day and Any Day

Gift Memorable Plants

Editor’s Note: We have collaborated with area garden center professionals seeking their suggestions for plants for gifting. Because annuals are generally seasonal and short-lived, let’s consider perennials, shrubs, and trees as memorable gifts that keep on giving.

For me, Mother’s Day is filled with memories of handmade cards, crepe paper flowers, and salt dough statues. I’m not one for bobbles and bangles, or new kitchen gadgets. I have much preferred a handwritten note delivered with a great big hug. Recently though, Mr. Gardener has started gifting a plant for the garden. He knows of my fondness for peonies, and that any peony will do. You can never have too many blooms to cut and bring indoors or share with neighbors. When I’m strolling through the garden, season after season, I’ll remember that plant was a Mother’s Day gift from my man. How lovely the memory will be.

Maybe you would like to gift a plant for someone special in your life. While florist bouquets and boxes of candy are no doubt beautiful, delicious, and heartfelt, why not consider a more long-lasting gift. One that will be a constant reminder season after season.

Why not start simple? Consider a combination hanging basket. Jonah Nelson from Family Tree Nursery in Overland Park says, “Designed with color themes in mind, these arrangements will bloom all season long if cared for properly. Decorate your mother’s front porch, back deck, or patio with a

pair of hanging baskets. These big beautiful baskets keep on giving all season long!”

Another option is a premade custom designed planted flowerpot at Family Tree Nursery. Nelson adds, “Each year FTN designs thousands of mixed containers with Mother’s Day gift giving in mind. Every mother deserves something extraordinary.”

Inclined to do it yourself? Your favorite garden center carries a wide selection of interesting and colorful plants to stimulate your creative side, as well as containers for planting. There is nothing better

than the notion ‘I did that myself.’ Hydrangeas! The most popular flowering shrub in Kansas City. Nelson continues, “There are so many colors to choose from and options for mom if she has full sun, part sun, or shade. Hydrangeas will bloom throughout the summer if watered and fertilized properly. It’s a perfect gift that will reward with blooms each and every year!

Sean Holland, Perennials and Annuals Manager at Suburban Lawn & Garden in Martin City, offered a couple of choices. First, he named David Austin English roses. “They make a perfect gift

for gardeners and rose collectors alike. They have some of the most fragrant varieties among roses and are easy to grow.” If your loved one likes cutting bouquets, David Austin roses add a nice touch.

Next, have you considered a tree? “Royal Raindrops Crabapple offers a season-long gift. It begins its show in April with brilliant magenta blooms. Dark foliage adds interest during the rest of the summer, wrapping up the season with a show of copper-red fall color.” Holland continues, “I gave my mother one a few years ago, and it is among her favorite plants in the garden.”

‘Botanical Brian’ Pirtle, at Colonial Gardens in Blue Springs, Missouri, loves gifting the oldfashioned plants, sometimes with a new twist. “Lilacs are a great addition to any yard, with a scent that is outstanding,” Pirtle describes. Lilac bushes are available in a stunning array of colors, from various shades of purple to white. Site selection should receive plenty of sun. Then watch for the added benefit of visits from bees, hummingbirds, and butterflies.

Pirtle likes another classic plant, recognizable in spring. “Forsythia brings early bright yellow color in spring, but if you are looking for something smaller, you can find a smaller version.” This new dwarf forsythia ‘Show Off Starlet’ by Proven Winners is the perfect choice for smaller yards. Mature size is 2-3 feet high. It performs well in part sun to full sun. Remember to prune after it after blooming.

These suggestions are just a few among the multitude of plants to choose from. Take a trip to a local nursery or garden center, and ask the knowledgeable plant experts for help in making your decision.

DAVID AUSTIN THE ANCIENT MARINER

CUSTOM DESIGNED PLANTER

HANGING BASKET

HYDRANGEA

ROYAL RAINDROPS CRABAPPLE BLOOM

SHOW OFF STARLET FORSYTHIA

BOOMERANG PURPLE LILAC

TREE PEONY

LIMELIGHT HYDRANGEA

A service of the Mid-America Regional Council Solid Waste Management District. Project funded in part by the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.

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ROSE REPORT

First Rose Blooms in Our May Gardens and Shopping Advice

Finally, the wait is over! We are in the garden and soaking up the sunshine and radiant beauty from our roses! Nothing is more exhilarating for a rosarian than the first bloom (well, second and third blooms rank pretty high as well). Yes, May is our time – not to mention we can garden most of the daylight hours without extreme heat and humidity. And the Japanese beetles haven’t yet arrived… so, let’s get going!

If you haven’t already done your new rose purchases, there is still time. The garden centers have plenty of inventory, but don’t wait too long as that can change quickly! You may be able to snag a few bargains on internet websites as they seek to liquidate their inventories (more on that later).

Maybe this year you’d like to enjoy some roses on your patio or garden in a pot. Now’s the perfect time to get those going. Tree roses are offered by several of our garden centers and provide a great vertical point of interest.

If you haven’t already fertil-

ized, let’s do it right away. Those first blooms need all the boost they can get. Remember organic fertilizers are slower to break down in the soil. Some growers like to combine both faster chemical fertilizers and organics.

May is a great time to apply mulch which will help control weeds and keep the roots cooler during the sizzling summer months. If you need to break up your clay soil, look for finer mulch products that will decompose and help condition your soil. Years ago, cocoa bean hulls were much more available (and cheaper) and after using them for a few years in my garden, the hulls broke down into a rich layer of humus.

Be sure your roses are getting at least an inch of water a week… and maybe a tad more in extremely warm periods.

Remember that even though you may not be seeing much evidence of disease and pests, your control program should be underway if your roses are susceptible to blackspot or other fungal diseases.

JERRY DREYER Consulting Rosarian

Regular prevention is much easier than treatment of a more serious problem later.

So Many Roses, So Little Space

UGH! Rosarians generally suffer from an inability to grow all the roses we long for. So, cutting down our shopping lists is an essential part of our garden planning.

Our garden centers have a rose expert on staff, so seek out that person for their advice and personal favorites. As you are looking at all the varieties offered, a great internet resource is HelpMeFind.com. This website allows you to search for a “home page” for almost all roses in commerce. Look at the Description tab to consult USDA zones to be sure it’s appropriate for our area (Zone 6b). The Photos tab has submitted photos from around the world. Member Comments has many useful observations that may help your decision.

The Kansas City Rose Society Rose Library (https://www. kcrsroselibrary.com/) documents the varieties that are growing at the

Laura Conyers Smith Rose Garden in Loose Park. Great descriptions and photos offer plenty of information.

Online rose suppliers may be another option to consider for varieties that aren’t offered in our retail stores. Pay close attention to the details to be sure you know what to expect when your package arrives. Some mail-order roses ship ownroot roses in as small as 4” pots to save on shipping expenses. These little guys will do fine and should probably be kept in a pot for their initial season. You can also purchase up to two-year-old plants either as bareroots or in pots online.

The Kansas City Rose Society

Ask A Rosarian helpline is always available at kcrosehelp@gmail. com. Plan to join us at Rose Day on June 2 in Loose Park to see the roses, enjoy the Children’s Art Show and visit the Rose Show in the Garden Center Rose Room. We love to help new exhibitors participate in the Rose Show by bringing your roses on June 1. Hey, enough reading…time to get out and see what’s happening in the garden.

Moving up and down Interstate 35, Jerry Dreyer has grown roses over 10 years each in Iowa, Minnesota and Kansas. He is a Consulting Rosarian with the Kansas City Rose Society and American Rose Society. Hybridizing new roses is a special passion (or his wife asks, disorder?) along with experimenting with different propagation methods. Due to their most recent move to a shaded lot, he’s currently growing over 200 roses in pots.

Grande Amore® makes a bold, red statement.

Distant Drums is always a favorite due to its unusual color combination.

True Passion is a flamboyant orange shrub rose.

Photos by Jerry Dreyer.

Introducing the New Face of Monarch Watch

In October, 2023, Monarch Watch welcomed Dr. Kristen Baum as Director. She follows founder Dr. Orley “Chip” Taylor, who began the organization as a small Monarch tagging program in 1992. The public was so interested that Monarch Watch quickly evolved into a major research laboratory with an additional focus on educational outreach and conservation. Each year Monarch Watch provides regionally appropriate Milkweed plugs to schools and non-profits, and monitors the Monarch’s Eastern migration back and forth from Mexico to Ontario. Monarch Watch is located on the University of Kansas campus in Lawrence, Kansas. Dr. Baum’s position at KU was created in part by a community-funded endowment started by a generous donation from Chip and Toni Taylor.

Meet Dr. Baum

Dr. Kristen Baum is wellknown in the academic ecological community with over 25 years of research on butterflies and bees and her numerous publications. Kristen was raised in a small Virginia town and spent her weekends and vacations camping with her family. This childhood fostered an interest in the outdoors. She received her PhD from Texas A&M University in Entomology, then joined Oklahoma State University as professor of In-

tegrative Biology and later as associate dean for research. At University of Kansas, in addition to Director of Monarch Watch, Kristen also functions as senior scientist at the Kansas Biological Survey & Center for Ecological Research and as a faculty member in the KU Dept. of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology.

Kristen proudly explains, “I’m excited to have the opportunity to support Monarch Watch’s mission to provide information, education, on-the-ground conservation, and research to support monarchs and their spectacular migration. These efforts have the added benefit of also supporting other pollinators and wildlife.” Kristen reflected that it is a challenging time to join Monarch Watch because this year’s over-wintering Monarch count is the second lowest in the history of monitoring the butterfly’s population since 1994 (See Graph). Fortunately, many people care about this insect and are determined to prevent the extinction of the unique Eastern migratory population. Kristen comments that there are healthy year-round populations of Monarchs in many countries and Hawaii. It is our Eastern Monarch that is at risk and Kristen’s past and ongoing research has focused on many of the critical issues related to habitat and management practices. She will lead Monarch Watch’s call to the public for urgent action to protect Monarchs at every stage of their migration.

The Future of Monarch Watch

Under Kristen’s leadership,

Monarch Watch will continue research through tracking and tagging programs with the help of people throughout the Monarch’s migratory pathway. Conservation initiatives will further expand Monarch Waystations and the distribution of Milkweed plants to replace the losses due to Round-up™ and modern agricultural practices. Monarch Watch has always promoted the science, backed by empirical data. Kristen will continue this commitment and says, “My approach is to promote native plants, but also acknowledge that people need to consider what plants work best for their spaces and meet their goals, which may include factors in addition to supporting Monarchs or pollinators.” Kristen will leverage Monarch Watch’s strengths to seek more relationships with other organizations interested in supporting Monarchs. She plans to expand the use of technology to improve understanding of the Monarch’s biology and to increase outreach to the public. Kristen passionately declares, “Together, we can save the Monarch migration!”

How YOU Can Help Monarchs

• Plant Milkweed, the only food for the caterpillars

• Plant nectar-rich flowers that bloom from April through October

• Create a Monarch Waystation in your yard

• Connect with Monarchwatch. org: sign-up for emails, the blog, the Monarch Calendar Project and follow on Facebook

• Come to the open house and plant sale May 11, 2024

• Attend the Fall Tagging, September 21, 2024

• Support Monarch Watch! Monarchwatch.org/donate

Dianthus Coronet White Purple Eye

Monarda

Pocahontas Red Rose

Veronica Aztec Gold

Chrysanthemum Igloo Cool

Lewisia Elise Gold

Dianthus Rock Ruby

Nepeta Limelight

Aquilegia Kirigami Rose

Pink

Connect to Your Food with a CSA

Participating in a farm’s CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) is a great way to save time, support local agriculture and eat healthy all season long.

Growing your own produce or perusing a farmer’s market, inspecting squash and picking out bouquets of flowers is a luxury that some of us don’t have. In reality, most produce is acquired in a quick dash through the grocery store, not knowing where your vegetables came from and what happened to them along the way.

Local farmers have an inventive way to improve that connection to your food. It’s a subscription to a CSA program. This is where you purchase “farm shares” early in the year. During the growing season you get to enjoy weekly shares of the farm’s harvest.

I asked Sales Specialist Anna Arnot from the New Roots for Refugees program, who host their own CSA, some questions a person may have before signing up for their own farm share.

TF: What are the benefits to someone buying a CSA from a local farmer?

AA: There are several benefits to the customer when buying a CSA from a local farmer. First, having a secure source of local food is a great way to ensure nutritious meals for the customer and their families. As we’ve seen in recent years, our food system is at times not as stable as we’d like it to be. Buying directly from a producer that doesn’t have to add preservatives or ship items long distances is healthier for all parties. Secondly, customers develop a richer understanding of seasonal food and learn to prepare ingredients and dishes that they may not have known of or had experience with before.

TF: That’s a great answer! So can

you tell me what are the benefits to the farmer to offer a CSA to customers?

AA: The first and most significant benefit to farmers offering a CSA in my opinion is having available capital at a critical time in the season. The start of the season requires expensive inputs on the part of the farmer in the form of seeds and soil amendments, etc. Having revenue to offset those expenses takes a significant burden of risk off the farmer. Secondly, the farmer is able to connect to their local community in ways they might not if they only sold at market or through wholesale outlets. Some farmers are able to host CSA customers on their farms as volunteers or for community events, and those

TRACY FLOWERS

Plant Guru

intangible connections between producers and customers are a great remedy to the disconnection we see so much in our food system.

TF: It sounds like there is also an opportunity for community engagement. What are the benefits to the surrounding community for people to buy a CSA from their local farmer?

AA: I think buying a CSA from a local farmer benefits the local community in several ways. First, it reduces the amount of miles food needs to travel from producer to consumer, meaning less fossil fuels burned to transport food. Secondly, when people have access to food that is locally grown and whole (not processed), they’re healthier with

stronger immune systems. And as I mentioned in the second point, community events hosted on farms for CSA customers bring people into a community in real life versus online, strengthening neighborhood relationships and combating social isolation.

There are a few ways to find the best CSA for you. You can ask friends and family if they subscribe to a CSA or farm share. You can go to the farmer’s market and ask your favorite farmers if they offer a CSA or if they have a recommendation. You can also visit the KC Healthy Kids “Eat Local KC Map,” and click on farm icons closest to your location. Each click should take you to farm descriptions where farmers can list if they offer a CSA.

Tracy Flowers is the owner of Tracy Flowers LLC, a horticultural consultancy that works with local organizations to promote organic urban farming, gardening, native landscapes and education. Currently, she is the Local Food Program Manager for KC Healthy Kids. Her email addresss is kctracyflowers@gmail.com.

Cherries being processed and ready for distribution in a CSA.

The Rush is on!

Don’t wait any longer to get your equipment in for a Spring tune up. Tune ups include changing the oil and filter, replace spark plug, air filter, and sharpening blades.

We service what we sell and more. Stop in today!

Mowers, Blowers, Hedge Clippers and Chain Saws are in stock now! All equipment assembled, serviced and ready to go when you buy it.

Nothing goes out of here in a box!

Lawn & Garden supplies • Pet supplies • Bird seed

Mother’s Day Special!

Trying to figure out what to get your mom for Mother’s Day? Bird feeding is something she will enjoy every day!

10% off any 5# bag of Wild Delight Wild Bird seed with the purchase of any bird feeder. Wildlife Science suet cakes $1.79 every day!

4807 N. Brighton, KCMO

www.mowerpartskc.com

816-452-8393

Mon.-Fri. 9a-6p • Sat. 9a-1p

(closed for lunch 12:45-1:30)

Popular Johnson County Extension Master Gardener Tour Returns

Six private gardens will be opened to the public during the Johnson County K-State Research and Extension Master Gardener Public Tour, May 17 and 18. This year the tour includes a bonus stop of a Demonstration Garden with educational stations and our garden-themed handcrafted boutique shopping. Kansas City’s premier garden tour is an opportunity to get up close and view some of the most beautiful private gardens in Kansas City.

Each garden is owned and maintained by an Extension Master Gardener. The gardens are selected for their individual qualities and personalities, with something for everyone.

This tour is popular because the owners are passionate about gardening and have transformed suburban lots into their own personal oases. The garden owners and Extension Master Gardener volunteers will be on hand to answer questions. Visitors receive information about the garden’s development and educational tips to take home and incorporate into their own landscapes. Photography is encouraged.

There are two ways to purchase tickets. Electronic tickets will be available to purchase online on our website, www.johnson.k-state.edu. Paper tickets will be available ONLY at the Extension Office. Early bird ticket pricing will be $25 until May 1st. After May 1st, tickets will be $30.00.

Ticket sales will support the Extension Master Gardener program, including college scholarships to Kansas State University and Johnson County Community College. We look forward to welcoming you on our tour.

Upcoming Garden Events

Kansas City Cactus & Succulent Society

Sun, May 19, 1:30-3:30p; at Trailside Center, 9901 Holmes Rd, Kansas City, MO. Join us for an instructional program on transplanting/repotting our plants as they come out of dormancy or require fresh soil and a new pot. We’ll also learn more about staging our plants for the best look possible. And, don’t forget our June 15 plant sale: we’ll start the planning process. Refreshments will be served and everyone is invited to attend.

Leavenworth County Master Gardeners

Wed, May 8, 11a; at Riverfront Community Center, 123 Esplanade St, Leavenworth, KS 66048. Now is the time to plan your garden and prepare for a bountiful harvest that will come this summer. Canning is a great option for preserving your harvest and customizing food to your palette and taste. Megan Gilliland, co-owner of Next to Nature Farm, will be our guest speaker. She will talk about how to preserve fresh foods into delicious treats that will last all year long. The meeting is free. Visitors are welcome. For more information contact the Leavenworth County extension office at 913-364-5700.

MoKan Daylily Club

Sat, Jun 1; at Asbury United Methodist Church, 5400 W 75th St, Prairie Village. The meeting starts at 10:30a with a meet and greet, followed by a pot luck lunch, presentation and short business meeting. The guest speaker is Betsy Betros, speaking about spiders in the garden. Guests are welcome to attend. Questions about the club or June 1 meeting can be emailed to MoKanDaylilySocietyADSR11@gmail.com.

Orchid Society of Greater Kansas City Sun, May 19, 1:30p; at Merriam Community Center, 6040 Slater St, Merriam, KS. Will have Brandon Tam via Zoom, from the Huntington Orchid Collection, presenting his adventures in South America hunting for the rare Selenipedium orchid. The public is welcome. www.osgkc.org and on Facebook.

Raytown Garden Club

Tues, May 7, 10a; at Connection Point Church, 10500 E 350 Hwy, Raytown, MO 64138. Program will be “Cemetery Gardens Bring Beauty, Peace and Serenity to Visitors” presented by Allison Paddock, Genealogist serving on the Board of Trustees for Elmwood Cemetery. Guests are always welcome. For more information please check out our Facebook page: https://www. facebook.com/RaytownGardenClub

Wyandotte County Extension Master

Gardeners Annual Plant Sale

Fri, May 3, 9a-5p, and Sat, May 4, 9a-2p; at Wildcat Room of the Wyandotte County Extension Office, 1208 N 79th St, Kansas City, KS. There will be vegetables, fruits, herbs, perennials, and annuals for sale. Cash, checks, and debit/credit cards accepted.

Plant Sale

Fri, May 3, 9a-4p, and Sat, May 4, 9a-2p; at 1200 N 79th St, Kansas City, KS 66112. Sponsored by Wyandotte County Master Gardeners.

Liberty’s Home & Garden Club Annual Community Plant Share

Sat, May 4, 8a-noon; at the Rotary Plaza in downtown Liberty, Missouri, (100 West Franklin St). We invite you to stop by for free plants to add to your garden.

Garden Treasures Sale

Sat, May 4, 9a-5p; at 12201 Aberdeen Rd, Leawood, KS. A Faith Missions benefit for women and children in Rwanda and Uganda. Plants, pots, tools, décor and free hot dogs!

Olathe Garden Club’s Annual Plant Sale

Tues, May 7, 4-7p; Wed, May 8, 8a-12p; at 18505 W 114th St, Olathe, KS 66061. Come get some great new plants for your outdoor and indoor spaces while helping us raise money - this is our annual fundraiser for all of our philanthropic and educational activities throughout the year! *Credit & Electronic Payments Accepted in addition to cash/check!* You may find perennials, annuals, herbs, vegetables, flowers, pollinator-friendly plants, shade plants, sun-loving plants, house plants, and artisan-made garden decor! Come meet the members of Kansas’ oldest garden club; established in 1929. Plant love and knowledge will be freely shared!

Native Plant Sale

Sat, May 11, 10a-2p; at Anita B Gorman Conservation Discovery Center, 4750 Troost Ave, Kansas City, MO. Presented by GrowNative (www.grownative.org) and Missouri Prairie Foundation (www.moprairie.org).

Monarch Watch Spring Open House and Plant Fundraiser

deners of Greater Kansas City for a dig and divide fundraiser. Perennials, houseplants, and herbs grown by Extension Master Gardeners will be available for purchase. Proceeds benefit MGGKC. EMGs will be on hand to answer gardening questions. Get a start on your spring planting now.

JoCoEMG Public Tour

May 17 and 18. Six private gardens will be opened to the public during the Johnson County K-State Research and Extension Master Gardener Public Tour. This year the tour includes a bonus stop of a Demonstration Garden with educational stations and our garden-themed hand-crafted boutique shopping. Kansas City’s premier garden tour is an opportunity to get up close and view some of the most beautiful private gardens in Kansas City. Each garden is owned and maintained by an Extension Master Gardener. The gardens are selected for their individual qualities and personalities, with something for everyone. Photography is encouraged. Electronic tickets will be available to purchase online on our website, www.johnson.k-state.edu. Paper tickets will be available ONLY at the Extension Office. Tickets are $30.00.

IPM–Just the Basics

Tues, May 14, 2-3p; at KC Public Library - Sugar Creek Branch, 102 South Sterling Ave, Sugar Creek, MO 64054. Join an Extension Master Gardener from Master Gardeners of Greater Kansas City as they discuss the basics of Integrated Pest Management (IPM), an effective and environmentally sensitive approach to pest management. IPM can be applied to both agricultural and non-agricultural settings, such as the home, garden, and workplace. Learn research-based, comprehensive information on the life cycles of pests and their interaction with the environment. Understanding pests will help you choose from available pest control methods to manage damage by the most economical means, and with the least possible hazard to people, property, and the environment. This event is free of charge. Please register at https:// extension.missouri.edu/programs/mu-extension-way/event-management/event

Lawrence Native Plant Sale

last); at Douglas County Fairgrounds, 2110 Harper, Lawrence, KS 66046. Hosted by Douglas Co Extension Master Gardeners. Preorder Bloom Boxes by May 25 for pick up day of sale. Or purchase individual plants day of sale. All plants are grown locally without pesticides, 13 new varieties. Bloom Box details found at dgemgks.com

Heartland Hosta & Shade Plant Society

Annual Spring Plant Sale

Sat, Jun 1, 9a-2p; at Woods Chapel Community of Christ Church, 500 NE Woods Chapel Rd, Lee’s Summit, MO 64064. The sale features over 1200 plants including 68 varieties of Hosta and plenty of shade/part shade perennials! Prices start at $10 and we have all sizes of Hosta from mini to giant to suit all size gardens. This sale is open to the public. Sale list with pictures & descriptions will be available on the club web site prior to the sale. For more information please visit www.HeartlandHosta.club or the Facebook page www.Facebook.com/HeartlandHostaandShadePlantSociety/.

Kansas City Rose Show

Sat, Jun 1; at the Loose Park Garden Center, 51st St and Wornall Rd, Kansas City, MO. As usual, the show is free and open to all rose growers with assistance provided for first time exhibitors. There will be Classes for live blooms and rose photographs. Entries will be accepted from 8-11a. Visit www.kansascityrosesociety.org for the Show handbook with Class lists and Show rules. Also find links to tips on how to grow and show prize-winning roses there.

Kansas City Rose Society Rose Day Sun, Jun 2, 1-5pm in the Loose Park Rose Garden. You can view the results of the Rose Show with hundreds of blue ribbons winners and beautiful silver trophies in the Garden Center. In the Rose Garden you can enjoy many family activities, live entertainment, and an afternoon of beauty in this world-renowned rose garden.

Spring Studio Sale

The From the Summer’s Garden spring studio sale, “Back in Your Own Backyard,” is scheduled for Thursdays through Sundays from May 2 through June 16. Hours are 10a to 5p. The address is 8601 Barkley St, Overland Park, KS 66212.

Sat, May 11, 8a-2p; at Monarch Watch, KU West Campus, Lawrence, Kansas. We will have thousands of plants available and all are ideal for starting butterfly gardens or adding to established gardens and can contribute to the health of monarch and pollinator populations. Our Spring Open House & Plant Fundraiser will be primarily an outdoor event and there will be tours of our gardens, games, activities, monarch butterflies, caterpillars, and lots of butterfly plants for your own garden! Online ordering of plants will be available in advance (mid-to-late April) and details are posted. https://monarchwatch.org/events

MGGKC Dig and Divide Fundraiser

Sat, May 11, 9a-2:30p; at Young School (next to Restore), 505 North Dodgion, Independence, MO 64050. Join the Master Gar-

Sat, May 18, 10a-1p; at Trinity Episcopal Church, 1011 Vermont St, Lawrence, KS 66044. Grassland Heritage Foundation native plant sale.

Native Plant Sale

Sat, May 18, 8a-noon; at Lenexa Farmers Market, 17201 W 87th St Pkwy, Lenexa, KS 66219. Discover a vibrant variety of landscaping options. Browse grasses, flowers, and other plants from local vendors. For information, lenexa.com/farmersmarket.

Master Gardeners of Greater Kansas City Plant Sale

Mon, May 20, 9a-2p; at Blue Springs Historical Society and Museum, 101 SW 15th St, Blue Springs, MO 64105. MGGKC annual spring plant sale.

Native Plant Sale Sat, Jun 1, 9:30a-2:30p (while supplies

The Union Hill 29th Annual Garden Tour Sun, Jun 2, 10a-3p; at 31st and Grand, Union Hill Neighborhood, Kansas City, MO 64108. The tour begins downtown at 31st and Grand then follows a walking path through this charming, historic neighborhood. Attendees will receive a map and guide to the gardens on the tour. There will also be live music, two food trucks, two lectures by Master Gardener Virginia Murray, as well as an activity map for the young and young of heart. Extension Master Gardeners will be at 3005 DeGroff Way to answer gardening questions and share information about Master Gardeners of Greater Kansas City. Tickets may be purchased on the day of the tour for $15. Advance purchase tickets are just $10 through the Union Hill Garden Tour Facebook page: @UnionHillGardenTour or by visiting unionhillkc.com. All proceeds help with restoration of Union Hill Cemetery and to beautify the public spaces in the neighborhood.

Leavenworth County Historical Society Garden Tour Sat, Jun 15, 10a-4p. Tickets $20. www.leavenworthhistory.org; 913-682-7759

31st Annual Greater Kansas City Water Garden Society “Wings Over Water Gardens” Tour

Four Saturdays in July and August, highlighting various locations around the entire metropolitan area. Included with the tour will be plein-air artists demonstrating and displaying the art of nature at many sites and will conclude with a local businesssponsored evening garden party. Eventbrite will begin selling tickets May 1st and tour books and tickets will be available at area garden centers June 1st. Wings Over Water Gardens celebrates the beauty and symmetry of nature in all her glory. Moving water in streams, bubblers and waterfalls attract a myriad of magical creatures; from butterflies to dragon flies, and honeybees to humming birds. All the elusive garden fairies come out to play when there is water. Gorgeous Lotus, swaying in the breeze and a kaleidoscope of colorful water lilies complete the attraction of pollinators to these thriving ecosystems. Come celebrate with our annual public tour on July 13th and 20th and in August on the 3rd and 10th. Tickets are $10 for adults and children under 14 attend free. Sites are open from 9am to 5pm. Evening garden parties are free events and demonstrate how water features change under the stars. Builders will be present to answer your questions. Proceeds from the tour benefit construction and maintenance of educational water gardens for schools, nature centers, and other non-profit agencies. Tour one Saturday, or all four for the same price. The Greater KC Water Garden Society has built over 60 water features to date. Follow us on Facebook or visit our website Kcwatergardens.com.

MOMGA’24 Headed to St Joseph

The Northwest Missouri Master Gardeners will host the 2024 Missouri Master Gardener Conference September 27-29. Keynote speaker will be Dr. Doug Tallamy, acclaimed author and advocate that we can all take an active role in stopping the decline in pollinators and wildlife populations by planting native plants to create a Homegrown National Park. The conference will offer a wide variety of classes, workshops, and tours. The conference will play host to the Vendor’s Marketplace which will run Saturday and Sunday. There also will be the popular raffle and silent auction offerings. Registration now open, and you’ll want to reserve your spot early. Be sure to check back often at momga.org/momga-conference for the latest information and ‘like’ the conference Facebook page, MOMGA’24.

CLASSES | WORKSHOPS

Wake Up Your Garden

Sat, May 4, 9-11a; at Burr Oak Woods Nature Center, 1401 Northwest Park Road, Blue Springs, MO 64015. As the threat of frost disappears, let’s get our gardens ready for another growing season! Join Extension Master Gardeners at Burr Oak Woods Nature Center for this informational and hands on learning day focused on identifying early spring blooms, removing common weeds and pollinator friendly practices. Free to the public. Aged 12 and over please. To register and for all questions, email mggkc.market. pub@gmail.com.

Butterfly Survey Training and Blooket Trivia Game–In person event

Sat, May 4, 2:30-4:30p; at Burr Oak Woods

Nature Center, 1401 Northwest Park Road, Blue Springs, MO 64015. Burr Oak Woods

Nature Center and Master Gardeners of Greater Kansas City (MGGKC) invites you to The Sixth Annual Missouri Butterfly Monitoring Network training for the Kansas City area. Missouri Department of Conservation Naturalist Lisa Richner will present a slide show of 25 common species of butterflies, and you will learn how butterfly surveys are conducted and recorded. Test your new knowledge with a fun, online version of the Wild About Pollinators Blooket trivia game. After this indoor clinic, you will be invited to join a mock butterfly survey in the gardens around the nature center. This walking activity will be approximately half a mile in distance. Using the Pollard Base website, you will learn how to enter the data you have collected during the survey. Extension Master Gardeners (EMGs) will be available from 1:30 pm- 4:30 pm with information about using native plants to attract butterflies to your garden and to take questions for the MGGKC Gardening Hotline. This event is open to adults and children aged 14 and up. Registration is required through Burr Oak Woods Nature Center at https://mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/ Event/EventDetails/198712

Butterfly Survey Training and Blooket Trivia Game–Virtual event

Sat, May 4, 2:30-3:15p; Presented by Burr Oak Woods Nature Center. In this virtual clinic, Missouri Department of Conservation Naturalist Lisa Richner will present a slide show of 25 common species of butterflies, and you will learn how butterfly surveys are conducted and recorded. Test your new knowledge with a fun, online version of the Wild About Pollinators Blooket trivia game. Play individually on your smartphone, tablet, or laptop. No account or login is necessary to join the game. This event is open to adults and children aged 10 and up. Registration is required through Burr Oak Woods Nature Center at https:// mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/ EventDetails/198713

Blooming Blue Springs-Gardening in Extreme Conditions

Sat, May 4, 9-11a; Blue Springs Historical Museum and Garden, 101 Southwest 15th Street, Blue Springs, MO 64015. Because Midwestern weather conditions are some of the harshest in the world, gardeners must be prepared for whatever Mother Nature might throw at them. Through both presentation and hands-on participation, Extension Master Gardeners (EMGs) will share researchbased information and techniques you can use to help your plants survive and thrive in extremes of heat and cold and during wet and drought conditions. This event is free of charge. Please register at https://extension.missouri.edu/events/blooming-bluesprings-managing-your-garden-in-extremeconditions-cold-heat-and-drought

Buds and Bloom for Spring–Contained Excitement

Thurs, May 9, 11:30a; at Wyandotte County, Kansas, Extension Office Sunflower Room, 1208 N 79th St, Kansas City, KS. Presented by Jean Tinberg and Lynn Wild, Wyandotte County Extension Master Gardeners. An informative and in-depth class on Spring container gardening will feature floral and vegetable container planting using basic design principles, encompassing the art of color as well as container selection and placement. Pre-registration is not required. A $10 fee,

cash or check, will be payable at the door.

Watkin’s Woolen Mill Spring on the Farm

Sat, May 11, Noon-4p; at Watkins Woolen Mill State Historic Site, 26600 Park Road North, Lawson, MO 64062. Come celebrate the arrival of spring at Watkins Farm. Enjoy a day filled with fun and learning. Witness 1870s sheep shearing, stroll through the heirloom garden being prepared for spring planting, and learn about woodstove cooking, toy making and more. The Master Gardeners of Greater Kansas City will be giving garden tours, providing information about seed saving, and having a fun activity for children. Free to the public. Family friendly. For more information call 816580-3387 or visit mostateparks.com

Everything I Learned From a Tomato— the Taste of Summer with Sky Kurlbaum Tues, May 14, 7-8p; at Merriam Community Center, Kessler/Loomis Rooms, 6040 Slater, Merriam, KS 66202. Part of the Gardeners Connect Member Supported Free Speaker Series. Free. Open to the public. No Reservations required.

Native Bees

Thurs, May 16, 10a; held in the Sunflower Room, Wyandotte County Extension Office, 1208 N 79th St, Kansas City, KS. Presented by Kristen Manion, current Education Specialist at the Mr. & Mrs. F.L. Schlagle Library and Environmental Learning Center in Wyandotte County, Kansas. She received her Master of Science degree from Northwestern University and the Chicago Botanic Garden in 2021 and wrote her thesis on native, ground-nesting bees found in the prairie. Pollinators are seeing striking declines worldwide due to direct and indirect human activities. Among the most wellknown pollinators is the honeybee, which pollinates many crops and is responsible for the commercial honey industry. However, honeybees are not native pollinators in North America but are native to Eurasia. Over 80% of all native plants (and many crops!) are pollinated by bees that are native to North America. In this talk, she will explain the difference between native bees and honeybees, go over the many different families of North American bees, how native bees help native plants, and what you can do to help protect native bees. Preregistration is not required. A $10 class fee, payable by cash or check, will be collected at the door.

Fourth Fridays Art Walk

Fri, May 24, 5-8p; Downtown Lee’s Summit, near intersection of Southwest Third St and Southwest Main St, Lee’s Summit, MO 64081. Downtown Lee’s Summit Main Street presents Fourth Fridays Art Walk. The Art Walk showcases local artists, live music performances, along with participating shops and restaurants. The theme for May is “Art Grows Here.” The Master Gardeners of Greater Kansas City will provide a Children’s Activity called “Plant Parts” with vegetable art printing. The Gardens of Unity Village will provide the produce for this art activity. The Gardening Hotline and “Helping You Learn to Grow” brochures will be available for adults. Free to the public. Children welcome with adult supervision.

Love Your Soil Celebration

Sat, Jun 1, 9a-12p; Burr Oak Woods Nature Center, 1401 Northwest Park Road,

Blue Springs, MO 64015. What do you know about soil, how to care for it, and its importance to our daily lives? Join Burr Oak Woods Naturalist, Jada Tressler, for a program on composting and vermiculture (composting with worms). Extension Master Gardeners from MGGKC will take your questions on soil and provide researchbased information on how to care for the soil on your property. There will also be a children’s program table, educational table, and demonstrations on composting. For more information contact Master Gardeners of Greater Kansas City at mggkc.market. pub@gmail.com. Free to the public. Children welcome with adult supervision. Registration at the door on the day of event.

Fox Hollow Festival

Sun, Jun 2, 11a-3p; Lakeside Nature Center, 4701 East Gregory Boulevard, Kansas City, MO 64132. Free and family friendly. Fox Hollow Festival is an event to promote local trails. Come out and enjoy guided hikes, make crafts, buy cool merchandise, try your luck with a raffle and listen to some live music! There will be native plants for sale as well. Master Gardeners of Greater Kansas City Children’s Programs will be presenting “Pollinators: Not Just Bees and Butterflies.” Children can learn about other living and non-living ways plants are pollinated, and discover these pollinators work by day and night. There will be an experiment using an insect to pollinate paper flowers and learn ways to help pollinators in their own home and community. For more information visit https://lakesidenaturecenter.org/event/foxhollow-fest-2/

12 Months of Color in your Garden Thurs, Jun 6, 11:30a; held in the Sunflower Room at the Wyandotte County Extension Office, 1208 N 79th Street, Kansas City, KS. Presented by Anne Wildeboor, Horticulturalist at the Overland Park Arboretum. Pre-registration is not required. A $10 class fee, payable by cash or check, will be collected at the door.

The Gardens at Unity Village Farmer’s Market

Sat, Jun 22, 8a-noon; at Unity Village, 150B Northwest Colbern Road, Lee’s Summit, MO 64086. Experience a century of history and nostalgia in the barn and gardens at The Gardens of Unity Village Farmer’s Market. Three cultivated acres behind the 3-story barn provide freshly harvested vegetables and fruits. The Master Gardeners of Greater Kansas City will have a composting display and demonstration. There will also be a fun children’s activity called “Composting Basics.” Children will learn about the different phases of composting, and how non-living and living organisms work together to make it happen. Free to the public, children welcome when accompanied by an adult.

List your garden events like classes, workshops, club meetings, and plant sales for free. Send

GARDEN CALENDAR

May list of what to do in the garden.

LAWN

• Verticut or core aerate Zoysia to reduce thatch layer.

• Sod or sprig bare areas of Zoysia.

• Fertilize Zoysia with a high-nitrogen product to promote green-up and summer growth.

• Mow Zoysia at 2 inches tall.

• Spot treat broadleaf weeds on a day without wind.

• Apply a slow-release fertilizer to bluegrass and tall fescue if watering during the summer.

• Mow bluegrass and tall fescue at 3 to 3 ½ inches.

• Withhold early summer watering until needed to promote more drought-tolerant lawns.

• Let grass clippings fall to return needed nutrients to the turf.

• Keep the mower blade sharp for a clean cut.

• Don’t blow grass clippings into the street. Discharge back onto the lawn to keep our streams clean.

TREES AND SHRUBS

• Plant new trees and shrubs.

• Prune spring flowering shrubs after bloom to shape the plant and encourage flowers next year.

• Mulch around young trees and shrubs to conserve moisture and control weed growth.

• Water young ornamentals as needed.

• Remove tree wraps for summer growth.

• Remove tree stakes that have been in place for more than one growing season.

• Fertilize trees to help increase growth rates.

• Use caution with line trimmers around trees and shrubs so as not to damage tender bark.

FLOWERS

• Plant annual flowers for summer color.

• Continue to plant and divide perennials.

• Mulch perennial and annual gardens for weed control and moisture retention.

• Begin pinching chrysanthemums for bushier plants.

• Allow foliage from spring bulbs to stay until it dies down naturally. This develops stronger blooms for next year.

• Plant container gardens and hanging baskets using a good quality potting mix.

• Keep a garden journal for permanent reference.

VEGETABLES AND FRUITS

• Plant tomato, pepper, and eggplant transplants in early to mid-May.

• Seed sweet corn, cucumbers, squash, beans, and other warm-season vegetables.

• Cultivate soil lightly with a hoe to control weed growth.

• Mound soil around potato plants to encourage tuber formation.

• Harvest fresh asparagus until the spear size decreases.

• Remove rhubarb seed stalks to promote leaf growth.

• Plant kitchen herbs for summer use.

• Harvest salad crops and enjoy.

• Keep broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage well fertilized for big yields.

• Treat fruit trees with needed pesticides to manage insects and diseases.

• Thin dense fruit set on apples and peaches to increase fruit size and next year’s crop.

HOUSEPLANTS

• Move plants outdoors for summer by gradually increasing their exposure to sunlight.

• Fertilize plants to promote summer development.

• Rotate plants to develop a well-rounded plant.

• Wash dusty leaves in the shower under room temperature water.

• Start new plants with 4 to 6-inch cuttings.

• Repot plants into a 1-inch larger pot.

• Check for insects.

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. Anthony Reardon 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.

Be a Part of Something Blooming: Become an Extension Master Gardener!

Do you love gardening and want to share your passion with others? Become an Extension Master Gardener and join a vibrant community dedicated to learning and teaching the best practices in horticulture.

The MU Extension Master Gardener program offers:

• In-depth training: Gain knowledge from MU Extension experts through a 16-week course covering various aspects of gardening, from soil health to plant science.

• Flexible learning: Attend online sessions on Thursdays (1:304:30 PM) starting August 7th, with optional in-person field trips for hands-on experience.

• Make a difference: Volunteer your newfound expertise on exciting local projects like community gardens, children’s programs, and the MGGKC Gardening Hotline, helping others become better gardeners.

• Grow as a gardener: Gain ongoing support and learning opportunities through continued education and a network of passionate individuals.

Limited spots available! Apply by August 2nd.

Cost: $200 (scholarships available)

More information: http://www.mggkc.org/about-us/become-amaster-gardener/ or contact Tamra Reall (ReallT@Missouri.edu)

Don’t miss this chance to cultivate your knowledge and help your community bloom!

CASS COUNTY

816-380-8494; Wed, 9am-noon

DOUGLAS COUNTY

785-843-7058; dgcogardenhotline@gmail.com; Mon, Wed, Fri, 1-4pm

GREATER KANSAS CITY MISSOURI AREA

816-833-8733 (TREE); Mon-Fri, 9am-noon; mggkc.hotline@gmail.com

JOHNSON COUNTY, KS

913-715-7050; Mon-Fri, 9am-4pm; garden.help@jocogov.org

JOHNSON COUNTY, MO

660-747-3193; Wed, 9am-noon

LEAVENWORTH COUNTY

913-364-5700; Leave a message. A Master Gardener will contact you.

MIAMI COUNTY & LINN COUNTY

913-294-4306; Thurs, 8am-noon

WYANDOTTE COUNTY

913-299-9300; Mon, Wed, Fri, 9am-4pm

QUESTIONS ABOUT ROSES?

Ask a Rosarian; kcrosehelp@gmail.com; www.kansascityrosesociety.org Extension

Take home and watch the seasons unfold. Stop in to any of our locations for a wide selection of flowering annuals & perennials, patio plants, colorful pottery, and garden decor.

Spring Shrub & Tree

Blooms Primetime Sale

Now is a great time for planting, and Suburban Lawn & Garden has a huge selection of trees and shrubs— many locally grown on our own farm so they’re already acclimated to our Midwestern weather. In fact, we guarantee our trees & shrubs for two years. (Shop for sale trees at Martin City and Lenexa. Shrubs available at all locations.)