The Kansas City
GARDENER A Monthly Guide to Successful Gardening
September 2014
Pollinator Gardens
The Healing Garden How Healthy Are Your Trees Protect Over-Wintering Butterflies The Bird Brain answers your birding questions
It’s Official ... Swan’s Water Gardens Is Moving!
After 20 Years In Business At Our Padbury Location, It Comes With Deep Sadness That We Must Bid A Fond Farewell To What Has been Our Home For 25 Years. But, With Each Ending Comes A Bright New Beginning And We’re So Excited To Build What We Envision To Be The Ultimate Water Garden Destination In The Midwest. We Invite You To Come Enjoy The Transformation Of Our New Home.
New Location Located in Northern Miami County on 8 acres is where you’ll find us, just 2 1/2 miles East Of 69 Hwy at 4385 W. 247th Street. You can’t miss us. Our Big Red Barn sits just 50 ft. off of 247th St.
September Moving Dates We will be closed Sunday, Sept. 14 through Sunday, Sept. 28 while we’re moving. If you need any supplies during this time, just call us. We’ll make sure we have what you need at both of our locations. We don’t want our move to inconvenience you. We’re going to be open for business as usual on Monday, Sept. 29 at our 247th St. location and our hours will again be Monday through Friday 9am-6pm and Saturday 9am-4pm. Watch The Kansas City Gardener for our October Festival dates. From all of us here at Swan’s Water Gardens, we would like to Thank each and every one of you who have made our time here at the Padbury location so rewarding and filled with such great memories that we’ll treasure and take with us for the rest of our lives. Again, Thank You.
Kevin & Diane Swan
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EARLY FALL IS THE BEST TIME TO FERTILIZE! MANY HOMEOWNERS THINK LAWNS NEED LESS CARE IN THE FALL BECAUSE THE GRASS GROWS MORE SLOWLY. IN FACT, ITS JUST THE OPPOSITE. IN THE FALL GRASS IS ABSORBING ENERGY, MOISTURE & NUTRIENTS TO PREPARE FOR A LONG & DORMANT WINTER.
GIVE YOUR LAWN A LITTLE TLC NOW FOR A GREEN LAWN NEXT SPRING SEED
FERTILIZE
+
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CONTROL WEEDS NOW SO THEY DON’T COME BACK IN THE SPRING FERTILIZE FOR FUTURE GROWTH
RAKE THE LEAVES
AERATE THE SOIL
FILL IN BALD SPOTS
= NEW LAWN
FALL BULB PLANTING BULB PLANTING TIPS & TRICKS YOU CAN PLANT BULBS JUST ABOUT ANYWHERE IN YOUR GARDEN, AS LONG AS THE SOIL DRAINS WELL. AVOID AREAS WHERE WATER COLLECTS. BULBS ALSO LIKE SUN. PLANT THE BULB POINTY END UP. PLANT BIG BULBS ABOUT 8-IN. DEEP AND SMALL BULBS ABOUT 5-IN. DEEP. PLANT BULBS IN CLUSTERS, OR MAKE A LONG THIN LINE ALONG THE WALK. CLUSTERS WILL GIVE A CONCENTRATION OF COLOR FOR A GREATER IMPACT.
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September 2014 / The Kansas City Gardener sept_Westlake_kcg_2014.indd 1
20 STORES IN THE KC METRO! WWW.WESTLAKEHARDWARE.COM
VISIT US FOR GREAT TIPS, ADVICE & A LOCATION NEAR YOU.
8/13/14 6:48 PM3
The Kansas City
editor’s notes
GARDENER A Monthly Guide to Successful Gardening
Autumn, here we go
Independently owned and operated since 1996 Publisher Michael Cavanaugh Editor Elizabeth Cavanaugh Editorial Assistant Hannah Cavanaugh Contributors Charles Anctil Leah Berg Tom DePaepe Diane & Doc Gover Lenora Larson Dennis Patton Paul Redfearn, Jr. Phil Roudebush Diane Swan Scott Woodbury Distribution Publishers Delivery Solutions, Inc.
How to Reach Us ...
P.O. Box 8725 Prairie Village, KS 66208 Phone: 913-648-4728 For advertising information contact Michael Cavanaugh at mike@kcgmag.com
For the past 26 years, autumn consisted of school supplies, ice cream socials, band camp, back to school night, and teacher conferences – all centered around our kids. Now that the youngest has graduated from high school, autumn has a different look. Friends have asked, “Are you going to miss those days?” In short, no! I’m glad we raised children into adulthood, ready and eager to take on the world. If I ever get a bit melancholy for those days, I’ll call my grandchildren for a school year update. No more scheduling our lives around the school calendar. Now we have the freedom to plan according to our calendar. Oh the possibilities! For now, we’ll just take it one month at a time. And since September is a terrific time to plant, maybe we’ll do just that. There are a few spots where the garden border grass Liriope has succumbed
Submit editorial questions to Elizabeth Cavanaugh at elizabeth@kcgmag.com
In this issue
See us on the Web: www.kcgmag.com
September 2014 • Vol. 19 No. 9
Don’t Miss A Single Issue! Get a subscription for yourself or your favorite gardener. See page 31.
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W
ait one little red hot minute! It’s September already? Really? So ... like ... summer is over? How can that be? Where were the days of agony in the Midwest summer, when the heat is so oppressive you have no desire to BE outside, let alone do any gardening? What happened to the part of summer when we get cranky and irritated? Where’s the part when we shout at annuals, “I am so tired of your weakness. You will not see another season!” Ordinarily, by summer’s end, gardeners are eager to welcome fall. We’ve grown weary of seemingly unending heat and drought. We’re tired of lugging hoses everywhere trying to keep plant material alive. By now, we’ve lost patience with underperforming plants. Both gardeners and plants need a little relief. This year is different though. I never reached that “cranky” point. In fact, the summer has been quite pleasant. The popular phrase among neighbors was “Isn’t this weather incredible!” Indeed. So on to autumn we go.
Ask the Experts ........................ 6 The Bird Brain ......................... 8 Wildflowers in Bloom ............... 9 GrowNative Big & Tall ............. 10 Rose Report ............................ 12 Garden Faire .......................... 13 How Healthy Are Your Trees ..... 14 Through the Looking Glass ........ 15 Pollinator Gardens ................... 16
about the cover ...
to drought. Those will need to be replaced. There are several vacant places in the shade garden that could use new perennials. It’s exciting to think of my options while I research for that project. Then it’ll be time to schedule a trip to the pumpkin farm to gather mums, pumpkins and gourds. Autumn may have changed for me, but some things will stay the same. Soon the landscape will beam with bold fall colors. The tomato plants will try to deliver more before the first frost. A light sweater may be required in an early morning garden workout. We’ll need to water all those new plantings while getting them established before winter. We welcome another incredible season. So come on, Autumn. I’ll see you in the garden!
Protect Over-wintering Butterflies ................................ 18 Pets and Plants ....................... 20 The Healing Garden ................ 22 Upcoming Events ..................... 26 Hotlines ................................. 29 Weather ................................. 29 Garden Calendar .................... 30 Professional’s Corner ................ 31
In July Liatris boldly punctuate landscapes like purple exclamation points. Read more about selections for a Pollinator Garden on page 16.
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The Kansas City Gardener / September 2014
Share the Gardens’ Goodness at Powell Gardens
S
eptember brings lush blooms, an exclusive chance to spend time with the sculptor whose art graces the Gardens Gone Wild sculpture exhibit and a 5K run/ walk to Powell Gardens, Kansas City’s botanical garden. Here’s a week-by-week look at what’s happening at the Gardens:
Run Fast. Eat Slow. 5K Run/Walk & Trail Trek, Sept. 6 8 a.m. Run/Walk and 9:30 a.m. Trail Trek Lace up your running shoes for the fourth annual Run Fast|Eat Slow event at Powell Gardens on Sept. 6. This year the event raises funds to bring more schoolchildren to Powell Gardens, where they will use all five senses to learn about healthy lifestyles. The event is a great way to enjoy time with friends and family while sharing the goodness of Powell Gardens with others. The 2014 5K course will route participants through the heart of the Gardens, with breath-taking views and fun entertainment along the way. Also new: a prize for the best fruit or vegetable costume! At 9:30 a.m. the untimed Trail Trek begins on the Byron Shutz Nature Trail. Throughout the morning, participants can discover delicious ways to “eat slow” with activities, demos and garden-fresh samples in the Heartland Harvest Garden. The registration fee is $30 and includes a T-shirt, timed course and all-day access to the Gardens. See more details at www.powellgardens.org/5K. Scarecrows in the Garden: Call for Entries Deadline: 5 p.m. Sept. 27 Families, school classes, scouts, garden clubs, businesses and individuals are invited to enter this salute to the icon of autumn. Scarecrows will be displayed throughout the month of October. No fee is charged to enter a scarecrow, but Garden admission applies to view them. See details at powellgardens.org/scarecrow or call 816-697-2600 x208. (A limited number of rebar scarecrow frames are available for loan or purchase.)
September is the last full month to see Gardens Gone Wild: An Animal Art Adventure featuring the works of sculptor Dan Ostermiller, including “Bullfrog” (pictured left). Ostermiller will return to Powell Gardens for an exclusive art experience on Sept. 27, which includes a private tour of the exhibit plus wine and light bites. price of $45 ($35 for members). Tickets for this event are limited and prepaid reservations are required. Visit powellgardens.org/ OstermillerEvening or call 816697-2600 x 209.
Chef Demonstrations and Tastings See how chefs and culinary experts use fresh food grown in the Heartland Harvest Garden at 2 p.m. Sundays, with free samples while supplies last. Then taste what’s in season from the daily tasting station. The September chef demo schedule includes: • Sunday, Sept. 7: Richard W. McPeake, Chef/Culinary Instructor, and students from the Kansas City, Kansas, Community College Culinary Arts Program; • Sunday, Sept. 14: Mindy Lindeman Riley, Owner of Olive Tree Fine Oils + Vinegars; and • Sunday, Sept. 28: Michele Coakley, Personal Chef/Owner at Exquisite Eats Personal Chef Service. A Saturday special in the series is set for Sept. 27, when sculptor Dan Ostermiller and cooking school buddy Richard Matteucci present a favorite Italian recipe at 2 p.m. in the Missouri Barn.
works in exhibit and share behindthe-scenes information about his artistic process. Wine and light appetizers are included in the ticket
An Art Experience with Sculptor Dan Ostermiller Dan Ostermiller, the sculptor who created the 26 animal sculptures in this summer’s Gardens Gone Wild exhibition, returns to Powell Gardens for an exclusive art experience at 5:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 27. Ostermiller will lead a private tour to tell the tales behind the
Bronze • Sundials • Bird Baths • Concrete Urns Home Décor • Gazing Balls • Statuary Fountains • Cast Aluminum • Furniture
September 2014 / The Kansas City Gardener
Powell Gardens is a not-for-profit botanical garden located 30 miles east of Kansas City on Highway 50. The Gardens are open daily except on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day. Regular admission is $10/adults, $9/seniors and $5/children 5-12.
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Ask the Experts! questions from our readers
Dennis Patton WHY PIN OAK LEAVES CURL Question: This summer my Pin Oak tree leafed out and then as summer progressed I noticed that the leaves begin to curl. When I looked closer the leaves had a hard green growth on the underside of the leaf along the veins. Can you please tell me what happened to my tree and what I should do? Answer: Your oak tree was infected by an insect known as a gall. A gall is a term applied to a growth of plant tissue either caused
by an insect or disease. In this case a very small gnat-like insect, actually a wasp, stung the leaf as it was unfolding. The insect did two things when it stung the leaf. It laid an egg and injected a growth hormone. The hormone caused the gall to form around the insect egg. Later in the season a very tiny grublike insect or adult wasp emerged from the growth. You will probably never see any of these stages but you do notice the growth. The good news is the vein gall causes no long-term harm to the tree and there is no need to control. The gall just looks bad but the tree will recover. This is just one of those little issues that arise from time to time. I often tell people it is like having zits as a teen, you don’t look the best but you grow out of it. Bottom line, just live with it and appreciate the wonders of nature.
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MOVING PEONIES TO NEW HOME Question: I am moving this fall and will not be able to relocate to my new home until after the first of the year. I have several peonies that I would like to take with me. Do you have any tips on how I can take starts with me? Answer: Peonies are often referred to as “pass along plant” as they are handed down from one generation to the next. You are in luck and there is a trick. This fall before moving dig up a nice division, maybe three to five shoots and pot up. Track down some large nursery containers. Many garden centers give them away to pot up your starts. Use a good quality potting soil and plant the starts in the containers. Water from time to time but keep them on the drier side to prevent root rot. Then, simply take the pots with you to the new loca-
tion. Over the winter months either sink the pots into the ground or cover with mulch to provide winter protection. Once settled simply replant in the new location once the soil has been prepared. The plants will never know they have been moved and you will be able to keep your favorite plants. Keep in mind peonies do take a couple of seasons to establish. Best of luck. DAYLILY SEEDS Question: My daylilies bloomed great this summer. I then noticed that many of the spikes soon had a little green seedpod form. Can I let the seeds ripen and plant to have more plants? Answer: The simple answer is yes, but many new daylily varieties come to market from cross pollination and the resulting seedlings. But, it is a slow process that will
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The Kansas City Gardener / September 2014
using for a few backyard garden plants is not always practical. Sorry not to have a simple answer and don’t forget about the squash bugs too. UGH!
take several years to grow a flowering size plant from seeds. I think for the novice gardener the best answer is to remove the seedpods so the plant puts its energy into flowering and start new plants by either dividing existing plants or purchasing new ones. Leave the seed process to those into daylily breeding. I think you will enjoy the results much more. DREADED SQUASH VINE BORER Question: I am about to give up on growing squash. I planted zucchini and before I even had a chance to harvest the squash vine borer killed the plants. Do you have any suggestions? Answer: Yes, visit the local farmer’s market. I feel your pain as between blossom end rot and the vine borer my harvest was the pits. Here are your options: Insecticide sprays are effective but many people strive to use fewer pesticides. Start spraying the plants after they emerge and continue this regime every couple of weeks. There are some organic options to try also. These include wrapping the base of the stem with aluminum foil to prevent the adult from laying eggs on the stems. There is also some research that says the use of a reflective plastic mulch helps to reduce the problem. But finding reflective plastic mulches and
• • • • • •
POWDERY MILDEW Question: My Monarda is covered with powdery mildew do you have any recommendations on how to handle this disease? Answer: You may not like my answer because in my personal garden I handled the problem by removing the Monarda. That solved the problem but if you like this perennial, this may not be a good solution. Mildew loves our moisture and humidity. It is very difficult to keep this whitish powder disease from forming. Cultural practices include avoid wetting the foliage to increasing air circulation, by thinning the clump, or planting in a windy area. Those practices will probably not solve the problem but they may help. The other option is to plant more disease resistant varieties. I must admit I still had the problem with this option. The Chicago Botanical Garden did research a few years ago and these are some of their top performers. ‘Blue Wreath’, ‘Colrain Red’, ‘Falls of Hill’s Creek’, ‘Gardenview Scarlet’, ‘Marshalls Delight’, ‘Ohio Glow’, ‘Raspberry Wine’, ‘Rose Queen’, ‘Rosy-Purple’, and ‘Violet Queen’. You might give some of these a try. If not enjoy the flowering and once the mildew sets in cut back the plant and oftentimes the regrowth is healthier in appearance.
A Day of Free Fun for Children and Adults
Kansas City Community Gardens invites everyone to enjoy its Fall Family Festival from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sept. 6. Admission is free. The annual event is at the Beanstalk Children’s Garden, located at 6917 Kensington Ave., just north of Gregory Blvd. in Swope Park. Join us for BUGS GAMES HORSE RIDES FACE PAINTING SCAVENGER HUNT VEGETABLE & FRUIT TASTING TAKE HOME YOUR OWN BASIL PLANT AND LOTS MORE FUN!
The garden paths are paved and fully wheelchair accessible. For information, call (816) 931-3877 or visit us on the Web at kccg.org. Follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ TheBeanstalkChildrensGarden. Kansas City Community Gardens (KCCG) is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the quality of life of low-income households and other members of the community by helping them grow their own nutritious fruits and vegetables. KCCG member gardeners develop self-reliance, knowledge about nutrition, and an appreciation for the environment, while enjoying exercise, social interaction and the satisfaction of growing their own food.
Dennis Patton is the horticulture agent for Johnson County K-State Research and Extension. For free information fact sheets, visit www.johnson.ksu.edu, or call the Extension office at 913-715-7000.
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September 2014 / The Kansas City Gardener
Ed Campbell, III
Annual Tree Sale
Tues, Sep 2 thru Sat, Sep 13 8am-4pm
At our Belton Farm Location!
By appointment only! Visit rosehillgardens.com for more information
Or call 816-331-4450 7
The Bird Brain
answers your backyard birding questions
Doc & Diane Gover
A
s the kids are going back to school and households are busy settling into routines, there are many changes happening in your backyard. Fall migration is in full swing. It is very important to continue offering food and water for the birds. Your yard will be an irrestible stop over for many birds on their long journeys. Be sure to keep your birdfeeders and birdbaths clean and full. You never know who you might see having a meal or taking a bath.
Q. I want my yard to be inviting to the birds. Any suggestions? A. This will be easier than you can possibly imagine. A natural habitat will attract the widest variety of birds (a perfectly manicured landscape isn’t very inviting). Always remember that no one rakes or prunes the forest. Always leave dead seed heads on flowers as the chickadees and gold finches will devour them. Have seed feeders filled with fresh seed, remember juveniles are learning how to survive; they will not become dependent on your offerings but will know as cold weather arrives that they can count on your “food patch.” Always offer fresh water in a shallow bath. Q. Bluebirds have raised three broods in the nest box in my yard. I cleaned out the first two
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nests right after they fledged. Should I leave the last nest in the house for them to use during the winter? A. Be sure to remove all nesting material as it will harbor mites. As cold weather arrives, the box will become a roost and provide shelter during inclement weather. Q. When should I take down my hummingbird feeders? A. It is a common misconception that hummingbirds will not migrate if we keep feeding them. These tiny little creatures migrate by instinct. Please leave your hummingbird feeders up through September, after that leave out at least one nectar feeder through Halloween. The feeder that you leave up may just give a young straggler or an old timer the boost of energy it needs to continue south. Be sure to keep the nectar fresh. Q. I always see flocks of little brown birds in my yard in the fall. What are they?
A. Fall migration is an exciting time of year. Our guess would be that the LBJs (little brown jobs) are not House Sparrows as they do not flock because they are permanent residents. You are probably seeing different species of native sparrows moving through such as White-throated, White-crowned and Chipping Sparrows. Keep your binoculars and field guide handy to help identify your visitors. With all of the challenges in today’s world it’s a perfect time to enjoy the great outdoors. Always remember the sign on our door – “Warning – watching TV can cause emotional distress. Watch birds instead! If you have any questions, please stop by the store. Our Certified Birdfeeding Specialists will be glad to assist you in this fun hobby. Doc and Diane Gover own and operate Wild Birds Unlimited of Leawood at 11711 Roe Avenue, Leawood, Kansas. Contact them at 913-491-4887.
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AmericanTopSoil.com The Kansas City Gardener / September 2014
Gerardia
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Wildflowers in Bloom at Powell Gardens By Paul L. Redfearn, Jr.
N
ow is a wonderful time to see fall wild flowers along the Bryon Shutz Nature Trail at Powell Gardens. At the beginning of the trail, pick up a list of wildflowers compiled by Alan Branhagen, Director of Horticulture. You may expect to see many blooming including: Thimbleweed • Queen Anne’s Lace • Yarrow • White Daisy • Button Bush • Large Flowered Gaura • Slender Mountain Mint • Tassel Flower • Pale Indian Plantain • Ladies’ Tresses • Tall Thoroughwort • Sweet Everlasting • Button Bush • Pokeweed • Button Snakeroot (Rattlesnake Masters) • Parsnip • Black-eyed Susan • False Loosestrife • American Lotus • Partridge Pea • Cup Plant (Cup Rosin Weed) • Compass Plant • Beggar-ticks • Sunflowers (Smooth, Fa Po ll Cle nd an Clo ing sin s gs
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Jerusalem Artichoke, Common, Ashy, Sawtooth) • Goldenrods (Elm-leaved, Old Field) • Ironweed • Tall Bellflower • Blue Lobelia • Chicory (Blue Sailors) • Tickseed Coreopsis • Coneflowers (Pale purple, Purple) • Milkweeds (Common, Butterfly, Gray-headed) • Blue Sage • Blazing Star • Rough Blazing Star • Asters (White Wreath, New England, Calico, Oblong-leaved, Willow-leaved, Blue wood) • Gerardia • Rose Mallow • and grasses Big Bluestem • Wild Oats • Common Witch Grass • Barnyard • Virginia Wild Rye • Yellow Foxtail • Indian Grass • Johnson Grass • Purple Top • Timothy. Photographs of the wild flowers listed here as well as many more may be viewed under their scientific or common names at: http://biology.missouristate.edu/
SPEAKERS’ BUREAU
Need a speaker for your church, civic group or garden club? The Johnson County Extension Speakers’ Bureau have the speakers you are looking for on just about any topic like environmentally safe lawn care, or perennial flower gardening. To schedule a speaker for your group, please contact the office. For more information on this service, call 913-715-7000.
September 2014 / The Kansas City Gardener
Herbarium/Plants%20of%20 the%20Interior%20Highlands/photographs_of_flowering_plants.htm. Paul L. Redfearn, Jr., Emeritus Professor of Biology (Botany),
Missouri State Univ., Springfield, Mo., Volunteer Curator, Norland Henderson Herbarium at Powell Gardens. You may reach him via email: paul.alice.redfearn@gmail. com.
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I
n gardening there are times when one may choose to plant big and tall plants, such as when a window view with greenery is desired on a hot summer day. Lets face it. When gardening in Missouri’s hot summers, it makes sense to create opportunities to view plants, birds and butterflies from inside. We don’t spend all of our time outside and we can arrange our views to look outside at something beautiful and full of surprise. Texas green eyes, Berlandiera texana grows three to five feet tall and three feet wide depending on the soil fertility. It has red stems, fuzzy leaves, and a rounded form. I enjoy its yellow flowers and the hungry gold finches that visit continuously outside my office window from late May through September. The finches seem addicted to the
CLASSIC STATUARY
seeds, as there isn’t a day they don’t fly in for a fix. In July and August Eastern blazingstar, Liatris scariosa comes into bloom on four to five foot spires of bright purple flowers. The upright spiky form contrasts nicely with the rounded Texas green eyes. With it appear butterflies, bees and later birds that come for the seeds. One other good choice is sarsaparilla (also called American spikenard), Aralia racemosa, which grows in part to full shade. It is a big perennial (dies to the ground each winter). In late March, mature plants produce stems that rapidly pop out of the ground with substantial bulbous stalks that keep reaching upward and outward until they reach their maximum size of about five to six feet tall and wide. By early July some trimming may be
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needed if planted too close to a house or sidewalk. It flowers in July and produces tight clusters of glistening ruby-red fruits in late August and September. All of these plants are well placed about three to five feet away from the exterior wall so they can still get rain water, not touch the house and be in line with windows that are three to four feet above the outside ground level. If you have windows that are 6-10 feet off the ground consider planting
Photo by Scott Woodbury.
By Scott Woodbury
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The Kansas City Gardener / September 2014
taller plants like a small flowering tree. Downy serviceberry (Amelanchier arborea) (10–15 feet), pagoda dogwood (Cornus alternifolia) (10–15 feet) or fringe tree (Chionanthus virginicus) (8–12 feet) are good choices that produce showy flowers and berries about 5-15 feet off the ground. Serviceberry is somewhat open and see-through when planted in shade so is a good choice to view through to the garden beyond. It also provides good bird viewing when berries are ripe for the beaking. Same is true of pagoda dogwood when planted in shade but in the sun both can be quite dense and provide screening. Fringe tree grows best in full sun to partial shade and has separate male and female plants. You need both male and female to produce good berries but plants are typically not sold separately in garden centers. I noticed that the male flower petals are about one to one and one half inches long and female petals are considerably shorter. You could shop for plants in April when in full bloom or shop in July when fruits begin to appear (plants must be big enough to flower). For added fun hang a wren house from a branch or place a feeder in view. There are many tall plants to choose from. Other perennials to consider for shade include goats beard, Aruncus dioicus (four to five feet), garden phlox, Phlox paniculata (three to five feet), and Joepye, Eupatorium purpureum (five to seven feet). Perennials for sun include New England aster, Aster novae-angliae (four to five feet), cup plant, Silphium perfoliatum (6-8 feet) willow-leaved sunflower, Helianthus salicifolius (six to eight feet), curly-top ironweed, Vernonia arkansana (four to six feet) and showy goldenrod, Solidago specio-
sa (four to five feet). Keep in mind that tall plants like these that bloom in late summer or fall may flop over, reach out too far or simply get too tall. Give these plants (not spring or early summer bloomers) a haircut in late April or early May by cutting 40 to 60% of the stems off. Plants will come back shorter and bushier but be careful as they may not reach up in view looking out your window. Shrubs that prefer full sun to part shade include wild hydrangea, Hydrangea arborea (4-5 feet), beautyberry, Calicarpa americana (four to six feet) and black chokeberry, Aronia melanocarpa (five to seven feet). A new favorite plant of mine is red elderberry, Sambucus pubens, which grows in part shade and grows 6-8 feet tall. Unlike common elderberry, which has dark purple berries in August, this one has bright red berries in June and blooms in late April and May. Birds quickly eat the berries. Visit the Resource Guide at www. grownative.org to find nurseries and garden centers that sell native plants. The next time you are washing dishes, drinking coffee, reading your favorite magazine or brushing your teeth, think about what you could be seeing framed through your window. The possibilities for including taller plants are great and the opportunities they provide for viewing songbirds and butterflies even greater.
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Thursday, Sept. 25 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. in the Laura Conyers Smith Rose Garden at Loose Park, 5200 Pennsylvania, Kansas City, Mo. 64112 Guests will be entertained by International Jazz Vocalist Karrin Allyson and the Mike White Quartet while enjoying great food and wine in the Rose Garden. Tickets: $100; $250 Patron Reservations required. Visit www.kansascityrosesociety.org to purchase tickets and to learn more information.
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Rose Report
(actually answers to last month’s quiz)
Charles Anctil
L
ast month, we presented a few questions to test your gardening knowledge. Here are the answers. What does calcium or lime do for your soil? Why is pH so important for plants to grow well? Calcium or Lime sweetens the soil. pH is a measure of the acidity or alkalinity of a solution. Seven (7) is neutral. If you want to test or feel that your roses or plants are not growing to your satisfaction, it is a good idea to take soil samples to your Extension Agent. They can send them to the university. The info you get back will help you get your plants back to normal. If you have a good pH tester, the readings you get below 7 are telling you your soil is becoming acidic or sour. The readings above 7 tell you the soil is becoming alkaline (sweet). When this happens nutrients become tied up and are no longer available to your plants.
Where is the shank located on a rose bush? This one is easy….the shank is located between the bud union and the roots. What rose variety does the shank represent on a rose bush? Several varieties of roses are used as understock. Dr. Huey is the rootstock used mostly in the United States. Multiflora roses are used for the northern states and Canada. Own root is used by some growers and Fortuniana is used by Southern states, but will not grow here. I doubt that I could tell the different shanks between Dr. Huey or multiflora. Where does a sucker on a rose usually come from? Suckers come from the shank. Something happens during the winter months. And come spring and summer the understock tries to take over. It grows very fast and, if allowed to grow, get ready and sharpen the shovel. What can happen on a rose bush if over fertilized with too much nitrogen? Too much nitrogen can and will cause blind shoots at the end of your canes which means no blooms. If that happens just cut them back and start over again. Why have I cut back my roses before Thanksgiving?
The Midwest northwest wind is brutal, so I cut back my roses in November. I do not want the plants whipping back and forth causing air pockets beneath the soil during the winter. I remove the leaves as a signal to the plants to get ready for winter. When you foliar feed, how long does it take to be absorbed in the plant? It takes maybe 40-50 seconds to be absorbed into the plant. When you use granules, it might take several weeks. This is because if your soil pH is not between 6.0 and 7.0 then the fertilizer you apply to the soil is partially unavailable to the plants no matter how much you apply. Foliar feeding is the perfect prescription for many less
than ideal situations; it is also never affected by soil pH. Why do I plant my roses 1 1/2” to 2” deeper than normal? I like to plant my roses deeper than normal because I do not trust January or February weather, plus the bud union is the most tender part of the plant. Well, how did you do? If you have more questions, or follow-up ones to these, give me a call. Charles Anctil has been an active Rosarian since 1958, Kansas City Rose Society, ARS Judge Emeritus, ARS Master Consulting Rosarian. If you need help, call him at Moffet’s Nursery, St. Joseph, Mo., 816-2331223.
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The Kansas City Gardener / September 2014
Garden Faire autumnal garden extravaganza
O
n Saturday, Sept. 20, Gardeners Connect, with the help of the Kansas City Missouri Parks and Recreation Department, has put together a day of gardening programs and information sharing involving a variety of horticultural groups in the Kansas City area. Held at Loose Park Garden Center, 5200 Pennsylvania, Kansas City, Mo., this is a FREE event and open to the public! In addition, there will be a sale of donated garden books in the Fern Room in the basement of the Garden Center. As in years passed, books will be affordably priced. Thank you to everyone who donated books so their fellow gardeners might find some valuable information in these gently loved books. The book sale hours will be 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. In front of the Garden Center, we plan to have a striped tent under which we have planned short programs starting at 9 a.m. and ending at 4 p.m. Affiliate organizations of Gardeners Connect will give programs that will change every half hour. Some of the groups plan to have free drawings for prizes right after their program. Be sure to get a door prize ticket. Check out the planned schedule of speakers below. We also have planned some children’s activities. This should be a fun day for everyone. In addition, affiliate organizations will have tables set up in the Rose Room of the Garden Center where their members can answer questions about their specialties and groups. Monarch Watch is planning on bringing some butterflies with them to see in the Rose Room.
a presentation on orchid growing basics. 2:30 p.m. – Greater Kansas City Dahlia Society 3 p.m. – Kansas City Rose Society Katrina Stevenson, board member of the Kansas City Rose Society 3:30 p.m. – Mid-America Begonia Society
organic gardener and co-creator of Gardens of Delight near Parkville Mo., a center for natural healing, will talk about “Tending the Herbal Tea Garden.”
1:30 p.m. – Master Gardeners of Greater Kansas City Master Gardener Chris Veach will talk about “Beneficial Bugs in the Garden.”
10 a.m. – Greater Kansas City Cactus & Succulent Society Judy Pigue will talk about “Growing Cacti and Succulents in Kansas City.”
2 p.m. – Orchid Society of Greater Kansas City Mark Prout will give
10:30 a.m. – Powell Gardens Jennifer Barnes, senior gardener for the Perennial Garden at Powell Gardens. 11 a.m. – Heartland Hosta & Shade Plant Society Phil Alley, an avid hosta collector who with his wife, Gayle, has created a hosta wonderland in acres of gardens around his hand-built log cabin home near Greenwood, Mo., will talk about creating their garden in a program titled “The Evolution of a Garden.” 11:30 a.m. – Heartland Peony Society
The schedule of presentations below is subject to change.
Noon – Monarch Watch Communications Coordinator Angie Babbit will talk about “Creating a Monarch Habitat in your Garden.”
9 a.m. – Johnson County Master Gardeners Johnson County Master Gardener Bud Smith plans to talk about “Container Gardening.”
12:30 p.m. – Greater Kansas City Iris Society Jerry Hoke, president of the iris society, will demonstrate and discuss iris dividing and care.
9:30 a.m. – Greater Kansas City Herb Study Group Lynn Soulier, an avid
1 p.m. – Mo-Kan Daylily Society Representative presentation.
September 2014 / The Kansas City Gardener
Other groups whose leaders have acknowledged interest in taking part in Garden Faire: Bonsai Society of Greater Kansas City, Heart of America Gesneriad Society and the Johnson County Rose Society. “This is a great opportunity to experience the diversity of the Kansas City horticulture community,” said Judy Penner, director of Loose Park.
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How Healthy are Your Trees
Tom DePaepe
T
he majestic trees in our yard provide beautiful colors in the fall, festive decorations in the winter, new growth in the spring and shade in the summer. Our trees are truly landscape statements to enjoy year round. As homeowners, we appreciate our trees, but at times we can unintentionally take their health for granted. We rely on the fact that most trees thrive with little effort. We water them when they’re young and prune them when needed, but their health is not something we often think about. Trees can be susceptible to disease, insect infestation and other deficiencies, which can cause permanent damage if not
caught early. The most important step in preventing health problems in your trees is to simply pay close attention to their appearance and quickly act on any changes you may see. One major health problem found in trees is Iron Chlorosis. This condition normally affects Pin Oaks, however under the right situation, River Birches and Sweetgums can both be affected. Iron Chlorosis is actually a lack of Iron in the tree. This occurs throughout the entire metro area, but is more prevalent in areas with a high level of clay. Without the needed iron, the leaves turn a pale green to yellow color, while the veins of the leaves stay a dark green. If the condition continues without correction, then the leaves will continue to yellow with the final stage turning almost white. During the hotter times of the season, the leaves may even curl, brown, and drop off the twig. In the worst case, the branch twigs will suffer dieback, and even death.
May 31-OctOber 5, 2014
Several factors can cause Iron Chlorosis like: soil compaction, soil and air temperature differences throughout the early spring, floods and high pH levels within your soil. There are several steps you can take to fix this problem. One step is Macro-infusion of an iron solution into the root flares of the tree. This will place the iron directly into the vascular system which will then be carried up the trunk, and throughout the canopy. Another step is to fertilize the entire area under the canopy of the tree with a mixture of fast and slow release solution. This will also help with other macronutrients that may be lacking. And lastly, you can prune out any of the deadwood that may be present, then raise up the dripline and thin out the canopy as needed. Iron is not the only nutrient that is important for your tree’s health. There are many micronutrient deficiencies of trees. Micronutrients are mineral elements that are essential for plant growth and health. These micronutrients include: iron, manganese, zinc, copper, boron,
silicon and molybdenum. The reason for most of the deficiencies is not because your soil does not have enough of the micronutrients in it, but the pH of the soil is so high that the plants of the soil cannot absorb them. Another reason for deficiencies could be that the plant’s root system has been injured by disease or bad weather conditions. The best way to correct these deficiencies is to inject the trunk of the tree with the lacking micronutrient, which will help return the leaves to their green color. If caught early, the effects of micronutrient deficiencies damage can be reversed quickly. Make a concerted effort to pay attention to the trees in your yard and be aware of any changes in their appearance. This small effort can make all the difference in assuring that your trees are healthy and beautiful for years to come. Tom DePaepe is an ISA Certified Arborist with Ryan Lawn & Tree. He can be reached at 913-381-1505 or tomdepaepe@ryanlawn.com.
Monumental works by nationally acclaimed artist Dan Ostermiller set in the beauty of Kansas City’s botanical garden. Join the adventure at powellgardens.org/GardensGoneWild.
816.697.2600 | www.powellgardens.org 14
The Kansas City Gardener / September 2014
Through the ‘Looking Glass’ … and what YOU will find there
Diane Swan
Y
ou come home and sit down to relax on your favorite chair by the window and see masses of mowed grass. You continue to sit and stare. No reason to go out and see anything. Everything is still the same as every other day… Or You come home, sit in your favorite chair by the window and look out at a beautiful landscaped waterfalls, streams, and pond. You can hear the sounds of the waterfalls! You find that you are energized and can’t wait to go outside and visit your water garden and see what’s going on. Water gardens call you to come out to experience the water garden lifestyle. To relax, unwind, and let the everyday worries just wash off with the sound of the water. But at the same time they beckon you to walk about and visit all the parts of the gardens. When you are planning a water feature, consider its location near
patio and deck. You want to be able to get up close and personal for the whole experience. Summer is a great time to enjoy the perfection of your water garden’s clear water, beautiful blooms and wildlife visiting the gardens. There is not much to do but simply enjoy. What you really want to consider is how will it look from inside the house. Between the cool days of Fall, Winter’s freezing weather, and the cold days of early Spring, you eventually end up spending a lot of time indoors. You will spend many hours looking through the window glass of your kitchen, dining room, and/or family room observing your water garden’s ever-changing life. So what would you like to see? ... a yellow swallowtail fluttering from flower to flower. ... dragonflies darting frantically above the water’s surface. ... a goldfinch and house wren having their lunch at your bird feeders. ... bunny rabbits playing tag around the pond’s plantings. ... beautiful deep purple blooms of a tropical lily reaching high above the water. ... flashes of fish swimming across the pond.
Kevin and Diane Swan own Swan’s Water Gardens, a full service water garden center. You may contact them at 913-592-2143.
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... bees buzzing around the Blue Spirea at the pond’s edge. ... robins splashing in the stream taking their daily baths. ... two squirrels chasing each other around a tree trunk. All of these scenes are real possibilities and all while seated in
Color is alive at Farrand Farms! The glorious beauty of Fall is now being presented for your review. Farrand Farms is different. You’ll love the unique presentation of our healthy ‘homegrown’ flowers and plants of all kinds. You’ll be amazed at the organization and how neat and clean our facility is. Our selection and easy shopping will make your visit a pleasure. Come and celebrate Autumn with us.
5941 S. Noland Rd. • 816-353-2312 farrandfarms.com www.soilmender.com September 2014 / The Kansas City Gardener
Quick and easy to find on Noland Road between HWY 350 and HWY 40 15
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The Kansas City Gardener / September 2014
Pollinator Gardens
on purpose
Leah Berg
P
eople of all ages love butterflies, but it’s far less common to hear “I’m trying to attract flies and wasps and bumblebees!” However, there’s increasing enthusiasm for locally grown food and concern about declining European honeybee populations. Books like Bringing Nature Home by Doug Tallamy help promote awareness of the importance of other vital insects like native bees. Urban farmers, Master Gardener volunteers, individuals and public gardens on both sides of the state line are busy developing “pollinator gardens” and encouraging others to develop habitats supporting lesser known beneficial insects. They ensure pollination of plants producing edibles, prey on harmful insects, and clean up organic waste. Though few “bugs” are as conspicuously charming as butterflies, Tallamy points out that most birds feed their voracious babies a steady diet (up to 95%) of protein-rich insects and their larvae. Anyone who loves birds must also consider improving habitats to support them. For those who enjoy shopping at farmers markets and dining out where restaurants offer menus starring locally sourced ingredients, it is essential to understand the value of diversified landscapes and reduced pesticide use. Neighbors used to manicured evergreens and lawns sprayed to eliminate clover, violets, and other species perceived as weeds, should consider the consequences of living with such limited choices. In July Liatris boldly punctuate landscapes like purple exclamation points (pictured on the cover). There is even a white flowering form, although anyone partial to purple should acquire more than
one of the seven species native to Missouri. I’m donating some liatris, bluestar and aromatic aster to a new garden area at the Kansas City Zoo created by my former student, Crystal Broadus-Waldram, now the horticulture manager. Her color theme for the site is blue and purple, and blends native pollinator species with familiar ornamental landscape selections. The zoo is already registered as a “waystation” with the Monarch Watch organization based in Lawrence, Kan. We like many aesthetic characteristics of non-native species and some of them do provide good sources of nectar, fruit and seeds, but experts urge us to consider vital reasons to include some well-chosen native plants close to home. As regional plant and insect species co-evolved over the centuries, so did complex chemical adaptations allowing each type of insect to detect and digest their food source. Monarch butterflies aren’t the only example of a species with a highly limited diet. Each has preferences! To create successful small scale versions of pollinator gardens in urban and suburban landscapes, visit existing sites to understand the mature height and width of many native species. Compare a recently installed native plant demonstration garden on the far west side of Olathe where Santa Fe (135th St.) dead ends at the K-State Research Center with more mature plants at the Pollinator Prairie site (3 blocks south of Santa Fe on Blake St., a mile west of I-35). Readers may download plant lists of the labeled perennials (https://pollinator.org/pollinator_prairie.htm ) known to attract birds, bees, and butterflies. Other sections of mixed prairie grasses and wildflowers established from seeds alternate with mowed turf areas and mulched paths. Carefully research which species best fit sites with limited
September 2014 / The Kansas City Gardener
space. Understand which varieties may spread aggressively, not well-suited to smaller sites in traditional neighborhoods. Just as we expect lawns to be mowed or shrubs pruned, so should we teach proper care of these plants increasingly used in public places like the Kansas City’s Central Public Library rooftop terrace, Bass Pro Shop in Independence and the Anita B. Gorman Discovery Center in Kansas City, Mo.
while taller Asclepias incarnata thrive in clay soil or low spots. Brenda Rogers at Soil Service says customers are increasingly requesting native pollinator plants. She suggests edging new beds with a familiar traditional perennial like Liriope or popular annuals to help frame the area. Restricting height is a significant factor! If unwilling to prune strategically to limit height, choose varieties known to stay shorter.
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Some landscapes enthusiastically installed have been destroyed due to complaints they looked “weedy.” Contact your city hall about wording of municipal weed ordinances, and be informed about your rights. Skip the fertilizers and pesticides, but be seen doing periodic and conspicuous maintenance, especially identifying and pulling the true weeds. Assess your space, use a plan, remove some turf and develop a new pollinator buffet. Start small, photograph the progress, and keep records on paper including receipts of purchases to help explain what you are doing if anyone complains about the “weeds.” Influence neighbors to try something similar by helping them understand why it matters. Place plants appropriately for sunny or shady sites. Berms suit species like Callirhoe, Oenethera macrocarpa and Asclepias tuberosa that prefer well-draining soil,
Brenda has had good luck at home with creeping Sedum ternatum, noting it tolerates some shade as well as full sun. How many can you name that stay shorter than 3 to 4 feet tall? Most of us already know about Echinacea, Rudbeckia, Phlox, Aquilegia, and Asclepias. Do you recognize some less common and visually pleasing native perennials featured in images numbered 1-12? Test yourself before turning to answers on page 23. These are some great lower profile, lower maintenance choices to integrate into smaller scale landscapes. Visit www.grownative.org for more information on these and other natives plants. Leah Berg is a landscape designer with a conservation emphasis. She also teaches at MCC-Longview. To consult privately, contact her at 816-353-7170. 17
Lenora Larson
W
eary gardeners welcome fall: no more summer heat, voracious grasshoppers or incessant weeding. As soon as frost blackens the tender annuals, thoughts of clean-up and preparation for winter quickly follow. A list of fall chores can be daunting: cut back the perennials; collect and remove all plant debris, rake and compost fallen leaves, etc., etc. Simultaneously, butterflies are preparing for the cold, cruel winter. Our migrating butterflies such as Monarchs, Painted Ladies and Cloudless Sulphurs avoid the issue by flying south. And other species
like Buckeyes and Orange Sulphurs simply die in the freezing temperatures. However, Swallowtails spend their winter in their chrysalids disguised as a dead leaves and twigs. In spring, the metamorphosis is completed and the adult Swallowtail emerges to sip nectar and find love. You may see butterflies fluttering about on a 65 degree February day. Red Admirals, Question Marks and Commas spend their winter as adults, tucked under bark or dead leaves. A warm day brings them out, but they are not looking for flowers. They search for weeping tree sap and moist feces as their adult beverages. Hairstreaks and many Skippers survive winter as eggs on blades of dead grass, twigs or leaves. Other butterfly species hibernate as caterpillars, protected by antifreeze-like chemicals in their bodies. Great Spangled Fritillary caterpillars hide among fallen leaves near violets, their host plant. Viceroys and Redspotted Purple caterpillars form
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Photos by Lenora Larson.
Protect Over-wintering Butterflies
Gray Comma enjoying a warm winter day. leaf nests that remain attached to twigs. The convivial Hackberry and Tawny Emperor caterpillars build group sleeping bags from dead leaves, which then fall to the ground. In spring the caterpillars climb the Hackberry tree and dine together upon the leaves. So, most of your butterflies spend their winter in your yard, tucked in dead leaves and on twigs. Should you zealously rake, prune and/or burn? No! You will kill next year’s butterflies. Now you have an excuse to delay fall clean-up of your garden. You are not lazy or messy; you are preserving the eggs, caterpillars, chrysalis, and adults of the butterflies that call your garden home. Many of your plants also profit from delaying clean-up until spring. The dead foliage serves as protective cover, preventing the freeze/ thaw cycle that can damage roots and even heave the plants from the ground. Over winter much of the dead plant material will dissolve into mulch, saving time and effort next spring. And all the wildlife, especially birds, will appreciate the stems and seed heads that provide shelter and food. You too can find beauty in ice and snow bejeweled plants. Of course some fall clean-up is necessary. Remove and burn all diseased plants. I completely cleanup my vegetable garden because none of those plants are butterfly hosts, but many enemies like Asparagus Beetles over-winter in the plant debris. Year-round, I keep the edges of my beds pristine, so any leaves or plants that flop onto a path are gathered up and composted. Because I have no lawns, I
If you rake the leaves under your Walnut and Hickory trees you risk sweeping away next year’s Luna Moths.
Tiger Swallowtail chrysalis, ready for winter. leave fallen leaves on the mulched beds. Dead plant material is carefully hand-shredded in place. Then I apply a covering of mulch, the shredded leaves from my neighbors who must rake their lawns. This creates a tidy, uniform appearance and a weed-free garden for my butterflies’ glorious spring emergence. Others may question why you have not stripped your garden to an immaculate state for the winter. Just give them a superior look and proudly declare, “I am a butterfly gardener!” Marais des Cygnes Extension Master Gardener and Kansas Native Plant Society member, Lenora Larson gardens and hosts butterflies in the cruel winds and clay soil of Paola, Kansas. She may be contacted at lenora.longlips@ gmail.com.
The Kansas City Gardener / September 2014
Sunflower ArtFest 2014
E
ach year we look forward with great anticipation and excitement to the Sunflower ArtFest. New this year we will welcome in the Fall season, with our 8th Annual three-day ArtFest. This will be our largest event ever, designed to appeal to a wide audience— from the seasoned arts aficionado to families with young children, all in a hometown atmosphere. The visual arts will be well represented by over 25 booths from local and regional artists with art work on display and for sale. There will also be a juried show featuring Sunflowers in various media types which, after a long absence due to a micro-burst, will once again be exhibited in The Barn. The Plein Air event will be held Friday morning from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., where you can actually watch the magic of an artist at work! As has now become a tradition, and actually was the inspiration for the Sunflower Artfest, the rotary has planted a variety of sunflower seeds which are expected to be showing their glorious heads as you enter the Sunflower ArtFest. These beauties will be available for you to pick-your-own for $1 a stem. All proceeds raised go to the De Soto Rotary’s End Polio Now Project. There will be live familyfriendly performances under the big tent just outside The Barn throughout the event featuring:
Wade, along with prior posters by Dick Stein (2013), Michele Wade (2012), Chun Wang (2011) and Jim Walker (2010) will be available for purchase as well. Proceeds help to fund the De Soto Arts Council shows and events.
Don’t miss this opportunity to enjoy the arts this Fall as the De Soto Arts Council hosts the 8th annual Sunflower Artfest Friday, September 26th - 5 to 8 p.m., Saturday the 27th from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday the 28th from noon to 5 p.m. at The Barn, located at 9120 Kill Creek Road just north of Highway 10 on Kill Creek Road. The event is free of charge and open to the public. For additional information contact Linda Lane, President, De Soto Arts Council at desotoartsks@gmail.com. Follow us on Facebook for any updates. The DAC website www.desotoartsks. org will keep you informed of future events and classes offered at the De Soto Arts Center. Children will be entertained by the Pioneer 4H Club with an education “Farm Tour” and activities while parents and grandparents enjoy viewing the arts show to ensure everyone enjoys their visit.
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Clifton & Joe, Gary Senner & Friends, String Theory, Larry & Rose Inman, Rich Berry, Randy Mattox and Clifton & Friends. A variety of food vendors will be available throughout the weekend to delight your palette: De Soto Baptist Church, with home-made desserts, Max Atwell’s Lemonade & Limeade, ChickHoovenSwine BBQ and Fire & Ice Concessions. Enjoy free samples of Grace’s Sunflower Cookies which will also be available for sale. Sunflower Posters will be available for purchase in The Barn. The collector posters sell for $20 each, new this year is last year’s winner of the Sunflower Exhibit, Michele
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Pets and Plants: Pyrethrins & Permethrin By Phil Roudebush
P
yrethrin (natural) and pyrethroid (synthetic) ingredients are used in numerous household and garden insecticide products and many flea-control formulations (aerosols, dusts, granules, sprays, collars, dips, shampoos and once-a-month spot-on products). Adverse reactions in pets due to exposure to these types of products vary in severity depending on the agent involved, animal type and route of administration. Pyrethrins are a group of at least seven different organic compounds extracted from flower heads of the pyrethrum plant, Chrysanthemum cinerarifolium. Other members of the chrysanthemum plant family also contain pyrethrins, but they are poor sources compared to C. cinerarifolium. Pyrethrins are natural insecticides and generally safe for use on cats, dogs and in their environment. When present in lower amounts, they also appear to have an insect repellent effect. They are
considered more environmentally friendly than many other insecticides because they break down fairly quickly on exposure to light and oxygen. The majority of the world’s supply of pyrethrins comes from flowers grown in Kenya. Pyrethrins are excitatory neurotoxins that attack the nervous system causing paralysis of insects. Although natural and relatively safe, pyrethrin poisoning can occur in pet animals – kittens, puppies and debilitated animals are most susceptible to adverse effects from pyrethrins. Accidental, inadvertent oral exposure can result in sudden onset of excessive salivation and vomiting. Exposure to concentrated pyrethrin solutions on the skin may result in drooling, muscle tremors, twitching, vomiting, agitation, constant restless or irritable behavior, unstable gait and seizures. The chemical structure of pyrethrins inspired the development of synthetic cohorts called pyre-
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products containing permethrin on the market – they are generally safe when used appropriately in dogs but will cause poisoning if used on cats. Dog products containing permethrin are often found in the store aisle next to similar feline products without permethrin. Life threatening problems (tremors, seizures, coma) occur in cats exposed to permethrin accidentally and there is no specific antidote. Cats with mild to moderate exposure will survive with intensive supportive care. Permethrin is also extremely toxic to fish. Products containing permethrin should not be used as insecticides around water gardens or other water features with fish. Phil Roudebush is a retired veterinarian, specialist in small animal internal medicine and adjunct faculty member in the College of Veterinary Medicine at Kansas State University. He is an Extension Master Gardener in Shawnee County, Kansas. He can be reached at philroudebush@gmail.com.
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throids. Pyrethroids now constitute the majority of commercial household and animal insecticides and include such compounds as resmethrin, sumithrin, imiprothrin, allethrin, bifenthrin, prallethrin, permethrin and many others. Pyrethroids are generally more toxic (to both pets and insects) and persist longer in the environment than natural pyrethrins but are safe to use on people, animals and in the garden when applied appropriately. Poisoning with pyrethroids in pet animals occurs from ingestion, overzealous heavy topical application or use of certain pyrethroid compounds on the wrong type of animal. Clinical signs of pyrethroid toxicosis are similar to those with pyrethrin poisoning. One serious problem is exposure of cats to permethrin. Cats are extremely sensitive to this pyrethroid. Bottom line, permethrin can kill cats! The biggest danger to cats is use of products containing permethrin that are labeled “for use in dogs only”. There are many canine
Come see our complete line of pond supplies, liner, fishes and large selection of aquatic plants. Pond Perfect, Pond Max Lighting, Aqua UV, Teton Pumps & more Specializing in Imported Japanese Koi & Fancy Goldfishes Full line of aquatic plants; lilies, lotuses & marginals
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816-842-5012 • pondskc.com • 1557 Swift Ave., KCMO The Kansas City Gardener / September 2014
Dinner on the Prairie: A Sunset Experience at the Arboretum
O
n September 13 from 6 to 9 p.m. a very special event will be held at the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens. The site of this first-time event will be the 180-acre prairie restoration area on the south part of the Arboretum property.
The evening, billed as “rustic, yet elegant,” will begin with a cocktail hour around a Conestoga wagon. There will be music provided by a native American flute player, stories by a prairie storyteller, and prairie games. At 7 p.m., guests will make the short trip up the hill to a seated dinner catered by YaYa’s Euro Bistro.
Dinner will coincide with a beautiful prairie sunset, along with jazz provided by Rod Fleeman’s jazz trio. A live auction will follow the dinner. Guests will then wind their way down the hill to dessert and coffee around the fire pits. The Arboretum’s Master Plan began with a vision: the advancement of environmental education, recreation, and the appreciation of nature. With the help of the USDAWHIP program and the City of Overland Park, the Arboretum has begun to reclaim, enhance, restore, and preserve a small part of what was once the Tallgrass Prairie. Ongoing support of this 10-year plan will be used for native grass seeding of Big Bluestem, Indiangrass, Switchgrass, Little Bluestem, Sideoats, Western Wheatgrass, and 10 varieties of native forbs and legumes (i.e., wildflowers). Tickets for Dinner on the Prairie are $150 each and will be limited to the first 100 who register. A group or company may purchase a table for 10 for $2000. Proceeds will benefit the prairie restoration project. The event is sponsored by the Friends of the Arboretum (FOTA). For more information go to the FOTA website, www.opabg.org, or email katharine.garrison@opkansas.org.
Stop in for our Huge perennial Blowout Sale!
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The Healing Garden Photo courtesy of National Garden Bureau.
I
n the best of times flowers help us celebrate the joyous occasions in our lives—the birth of a child, a wedding, career or personal success. In more difficult times plants give us hope and inspiration to meet the challenges of life. The role of the plants and gardens in healing is ancient. As early as 3000 B.C. the Chinese were using medicinal herbs. The Greeks built a temple for Aesclepius, their god of healing, set among mineral springs, bathing pools, and healing gardens. Green was a sacred color in ancient Egypt and represented the hope of spring that brought new vegetation and life. In colonial America, the Quakers felt a deep attachment to nature and believed gardens were a place of creativity for the mind and body. Growing plants was a way to relax and restore the soul. One of the first programs to use plants in a therapeutic setting was established in 1879 at Philadelphia’s Friends Hospital after a physician noticed
that psychiatric patients working in the hospital’s fields and flower gardens were calmer and that the gardens had a “curative” effect on them. In more recent times, advances in technology and new drugs have been the focus of treatment at medical institutions. However, within the past few decades, the medical
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community around the world is rediscovering the healing power of gardens. Many hospitals and health care facilities are incorporating green spaces, flowerbeds and views of gardens into their surroundings and horticultural therapy programs are often an important part of a patient’s course of treatment. Healing gardens can be found in a variety of institutions including substance abuse treatment centers, outpatient clinics, long-term care facilities, hospices and retirement homes, as well as in botanic gardens and arboreta around the world. In Cleveland, Ohio the Men’s Garden Club worked with homeless women in temporary housing to create The Serenity Garden, a therapeu-
tic green space that replaced the bleak asphalt paving that had filled the back yard of the facility. The Center for Victims of Torture in Minneapolis, Minnesota developed their Garden of Healing to aid in the healing process of people who have suffered psychological and physical abuse. Oregon’s Portland Memory Garden provides a safe and enjoyable setting that addresses the restorative power of gardens for patients with Alzheimer’s. For an individual recovering from a serious illness such as cancer or stroke, gardens can be an important part of healing by providing hope and inspiration. Hope in Bloom is a non-profit organization in Massachusetts that installs gardens at no cost at the homes of women (and men) undergoing treatment for breast cancer. Each garden is developed specifically to the home and lifestyle of each recipient in order to give them a tranquil place to escape from the world of doctors, hospitals and sickness. Whether tending to a houseplant, growing some flowers or turning an outdoor garden into a relaxing retreat, plants have the power to heal our body and our soul. Research has shown that working in the garden can benefit everyone. The physical efforts of gardening—digging, planting, bending and walking—are
5901 NE 96th Street Kansas City, Missouri 64156
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Mums, Pumpkins, Hay Bales www.lomavistanursery.com The Kansas City Gardener / September 2014
great forms of exercise to keep the body healthy. Strenuous yard work such as digging or weeding not only burns calories, it is similar to weight training in building bones and preventing osteoporosis. Gardens and gardening activity can also improve mental outlook and our emotional mood by reducing stress, anxiety and depression. Studies have found that gardening can lower blood pressure and cholesterol, which reduces the risk of heart disease. Researchers at the Cleveland Botanical Garden found that the blood pressure of many visitors dropped the longer they stayed in the gardens. A healing garden can take many forms but always provides interaction with nature. Visually plants provide inspirational colors or peaceful tones. We can hear the relaxing sound of water or the stimulating activity of visiting wildlife. The rich aroma of fresh earth and the delightful scent of perfumed herbs fill the air we breathe, while the fresh flavor of a crispy pea pod or sweet berry tempts our taste buds. We can touch the velvety smoothness of a flower petal or be touched by the movement of leaves in the wind. Begin to create your own garden of healing today simply by planting a container filled with colorful flowers, a nutritious vegetable, or an herb such as lavender, sage, basil or thyme. In addition to being attractive and aromatic, these and many other herbs have been used medicinally for centuries. Watching and nurturing any plant as it grows provides power
and energy to enhance your wellbeing. In an outdoor setting, incorporating a few simple design elements turns any garden into a place of healing and inspiration. • Grow plants that you find pleasing. Are you energized by bright colors? Then include annuals such as zinnias, petunias, sunflowers or cosmos. If you enjoy cooking, incorporate herbs, vegetables and edible flowers into your garden. Plants such as sage or lavender can be harvested and used for aromatherapy. • Include a place to sit and observe the beauty of nature or a path for walking through the garden. Enclose it with shrubs or fencing to create a secluded retreat. • Add a focal point for meditation and reflection such as a piece of sculpture, a special plant, interesting rocks, wind chimes or a water fountain. • Encourage butterflies, birds, insects and other wildlife to the garden for their healing energy. Birdfeeders and birdhouses quickly and easily begin attracting garden visitors. Choose plants that supply nectar and food including coneflowers (Echinacea purpurea), butterfly flower (Aesclepias tuberosa) salvias (Salvia spp.), dill, parsley and sunflowers. The design and development of a healing garden, just like the process of healing and recovery, takes place over time. It is that journey and the time spent with nature that heals our body and soul. Source: National Garden Bureau.
Pollinator Gardens Plant key to images on pages 16 and 17.
1. Asclepias incarnata (swamp milkweed) 2. Amsonia illustris (bluestar) 3. Pycnanthemum tenuifolium (mountain mint) 4. Lobelia siphilitica (blue lobelia) 5. Baptisia alba (white baptisia) 6. Coreopsis palmata (stiff coreopsis) 7. Helenium autumnale (sneezeweed) 8. Eupatorium coelestinum (blue mist flower) 9. Zizia aurea (golden alexanders) 10. Dalea purpurea (purple prairie clover) 11. Packera obovata (squaw weed) 12. Monarda fistulosa (bee balm)
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Beautiful MUMS are here!
Fall FeSTival OcTObeR 11 & 12 check out our Fall classes and events schedule on our website and Facebook page.
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Join Judy Penner, Director of the Laura Conyers Smith Municipal Rose Garden and Jacob L. Loose Memorial Park on Oct. 4, 10 AM for TIME TO WIND DOWN IN YOUR ROSE GARDEN! 23
Autumn Programs offered by Missouri Department of Conservation Burr Oak Woods Conservation Nature Center 1401 NW Park Road, Blue Springs MO 64015 816-228-3766; mdc.mo.gov/node/280 For more information about events at this location, email burr.oak@mdc.mo.gov Hidden Nature September 6 • Saturday • 1–2:30 PM • Burr Oak Woods No registration required (all ages) Who’s hiding under that log? We love to explore nature, but we often forget to slow down and look at the amazing details awaiting us. Join us as we discover the smaller plants and animals that are hidden right under our noses. Little Acorns: Caterpillar Craze September 10 • Wednesday • 10–11 AM or 1–2 PM • Burr Oak Woods Registration required at 816-228-3766 (ages 3–5) This is a great time of year to spot caterpillars munching on leaves before they disappear into their chrysalis or cocoon for the winter. Come learn about these magically transforming insects up close. Monarch Tagging September 20 • Saturday • 10–11 AM or 11–Noon • Burr Oak Woods Registration required at 816-228-3766 (families with children ages 4+) Monarch butterflies are now migrating to their winter home in central Mexico, and we are ready to tag them! Become a scientist for a day by capturing, tagging and releasing these unique butterflies.
p o t s
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Wild Ones: Pickin’ up Pawpaws • Burr Oak Woods September 27 • Saturday • 1–3 PM Registration required at 816-228-3766 (adults) Foraging in early autumn is a great way to discover native wild edible fruits. Learn how to identify pawpaw and persimmon trees and how to prepare their fruit to create delicious and nutritious treats. Anita B. Gorman Discovery Center 4750 Troost Avenue, Kansas City MO 64110 816-759-7300; mdc.mo.gov/node/281 For more information about events at this location, email discoverycenter@mdc. mo.gov Nature Nuts Storytime September 6 • Saturday • 10–11 AM or 1–2 PM • Discovery Center September 20 • Saturday • 10–11 AM or 1–2 PM • Discovery Center Walk-in (ages 3–8; all welcome) Join volunteer naturalists for a fantastic journey through forests, streams and other magical places as they read select books. Children will participate in a hands-on nature activity. Migrating Marvels September 6 • Saturday • 10 AM–2:30 PM • Discovery Center Walk-in (all ages) What do you do when the weather turns chilly? Do you snuggle up beside the fire or put on extra layers of clothing to stay warm when outside? The incredible hummingbird does something extraordinary; it begins its migration to warmer locations sometimes more than 500 miles away! Join us as we learn about our amazing feathered friend and how it and other birds migrate. Discover Nature KC Series: Monarch Mania September 20 • Saturday • 10 AM–2:30 PM • Discovery Center Walk-in (all ages) The monarch is without a doubt one of the most remarkable insects we have the opportunity to enjoy in Missouri. Discover the majesty of this butterfly through various hands on activities that will leave you in a state of “Monarch Mania.” This program will help you learn about migration, metamorphosis and conservation efforts for monarchs. Participants will have the opportunity to tag and release a monarch.
We’re retiring at the end of December! Check out these garden center specials! Beautiful ReD maple tRees
$35.00 All 3-5 gAllOn flOwERing shRuBs $25.00 Hydrangea, Althea, Azaleas, Lilac, Crape Myrtle
Order your peony roots for fall delivery Our peonies will still be available after we retire!
Saving Your Trees SAVES YOU MONEY! (913) 390-0033 www.KCArborist.com 24
Visit our website: www.peonies.net Open thru December, Mon.- Sat. 8-6, Sun. 8-5
10001 E. Bannister Rd., Kansas City, MO • 816-763-4664 The Kansas City Gardener / September 2014
Arboretum Plant Sale September 4-5-6
Photo by Katharine Garrison.
Open to the public on Friday 9 to 5 and Saturday 9 to noon. Perennials, perennials, perennials!
“T
Water’s Edge
his year’s fall plant sale will feature hot new varieties of perennials. There will be some new cultivars that are big improvements over old favorites,” according to Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens horticulturist Anne Wildeboor, who is selecting perennials for the sale. “Plant developers are always working to produce new colors, foliage variegation, compactness, double flowers and more. And fall is the ideal time to plant.” Shoppers can expect to see some of the interesting new native grass varieties they may have admired recently in the Arboretum’s Train Garden. A variety of daylilies will be provided by the Daylily Society’s Lois Hart and the Louisburg Late Bloomers Garden Club. Each variety will have a color photo of its blooms. “We were encouraged by the warm reception our daylilies received at the Arboretum’s spring plant sale and plan to bring at
least 30 varieties to the fall sale, many of which are award-winners,” Lois remarked. “There will be a variety of colors, types, bloom times and sizes — from miniatures to a 72-inch giant called ‘Sears Tower.’” The Iris Society’s Debbie Hughes will supply the iris, many of which will be divisions from our own Cohen Iris Garden. “If you’ve admired the irises blooming in the Cohen Iris Garden, you will have the opportunity to select from more than 30 cultivars of tall bearded, miniature tall bearded, and standard dwarf bearded irises at this fall’s plant sale,” said Debbie. In addition there will be dozens of varieties of hostas from Rob Mortko, “The Hosta Guy.” Rob grows Kansas City’s largest selection of hostas, from minis to giants—the classics, the top 25 most popular cultivars, and the latest and greatest new hostas. Many visitors ask about the pine straw mulch used at the Arboretum.
Got Nets? We’ve got Nets!
For the first time—and by popular demand—there will be bales of pine straw mulch available for purchase. Come early for the best selection! As always at Arboretum plant sales, Johnson County Extension Master Gardeners will be on hand to answer questions and assist shoppers. There is no admission fee to the plant sale area. PREVIEW SALE A preview sale for Friends of the Arboretum (FOTA) members will be held on Thursday evening, September 4 from 4 to 7 pm, in conjunction with an Annual Meeting & Ice Cream
Social. FOTA Volunteer of the Year awards will be presented. You can join FOTA at any time during the sale, including the preview, and receive a 10% member discount. FOTA members enjoy free Arboretum admission all year long, and reciprocal admission benefits at botanical gardens all over the country (visit www.ahs. org for specific info). “Get the jump on your 2015 perennial bed,” says Arboretum Supervisor Karen Kerkhoff. “Shop with the experts amidst the inspiring beauty of the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens!”
Welcome Fall in Your Garden with Vibrant Hues! a Trees and shrubs~ Come see what shrubs and trees are known for their fabulous fall color and berries!
nets to skim your pond, nets to dredge your pond nets to cover your pond
a Fall vegetable transplants and seeds~ Have you ever planted a fall veggie garden? Cabbage, Broccoli, Cauliflower, Green Beans, Radishes, Lettuce, Spinach, & more can be grown in a fall garden!
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a The area’s best selection of home grown perennials!
see www.watersedge.com for fall/winter schedule and classes
a Holland bulbs~ plant tulip, daffodil, and hyacinth bulbs now for a splash of color in the spring! Bulbs will be available shortly after Labor Day. The following Kansas-grown fall plants will be available by mid September: a Winter hardy pansies in vibrant and pastel hues!
SHOP WITH THE WATER GARDEN SPECIALISTS! 9th and Indiana Just 6 blks. west of downtown, Lawrence, KS
... it’s worth the trip! (785) 841-6777
September 2014 / The Kansas City Gardener
a Fall mums and asters in all colors! a Cool flowering kale, ornamental grasses, and other plants that feature the colors of fall!
Arnold’s Greenhouse • 1430 Hwy. 58 S.E., LeRoy, KS 66857 620-964-2463 or 2423 www.arnoldsgreenhouse.com May hrs: Mon-Sat , 9am-7:30pm. Jun-Oct hrs: Mon-Sat , 9am-5pm. Closed Sundays. Only 1-1/2 hours from Southwest Kansas City • I-35 to Hwy 75, South 23 miles to Hwy 58, then East 1-1/2 miles (Located 4-1/2 miles West of LeRoy, KS on Hwy 58)
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Upcoming Garden Events places to go, things to do, people to see
Fall is Perfect for Planting We have Mums, Kale, Pansies, Trees and Shrubs www.creekside-market.com
Like us on Facebook!
800 E. Walnut (Hwy 58), Raymore, MO 64083
816-322-7333
Hours: Mon. through Sat. 9am-6pm • Sun. 10am-3pm
Prairie Appreciation Day Saturday, Sept. 13th Hosted by the Grassland Heritage Foundation
Club Meetings African Violets of Greater Kansas City Tues, Sep 9, 6-8pm; at Loose Park Garden Center, 51st and Wornall, Kansas City, MO. Workshop. 816-784-5300 Bonsai Society of GKC Sat, Sep 13, 9am-3pm; at Loose Park Garden Center, 51st and Wornall, Kansas City, MO. Workshop. 816-784-5300 Greater Kansas City Gardeners of America Mon, Sep 8, 6-8pm; at Loose Park Garden Center, 51st and Wornall, Kansas City, MO. Workshop. 816-784-5300. Greater Kansas City Herb Study Group Wed, Sep 10, noon; at Loose Park Garden Center, 51st St and Wornall, Kansas City, MO. This month we will celebrate our herb garden at the park. Luncheon will be served in the garden. Visitors are welcome. Please call 913-592-3546 for reservations. Greater Kansas City Iris Society Mon, Sep 8, 6:30pm social, 7pm meeting, 7:30pm program; at Trailside Center, 91st and Holmes. Contact Debbie Hughes at dhughes936@gmail.com for additional information.
T
his annual event is held at the 140-acre Rachel Snyder Prairie southeast of Mayetta, KS and provides everyone with a chance to get “up close and personal” with one our most beautiful and quickly disappearing ecosystems. This year’s celebration is sponsored in part by the Topeka Zoo and will feature a number of great activities including a native plant walk, children’s activities, and lunch! The day will end with a walking tour focusing on GHF’s restoration work at the prairie. Wear sturdy shoes, long pants, and insect repellent, and bring a water bottle – you’ll be in the country! The entire event is free although an RSVP is requested. It’s going to be a great day and we hope everyone can join us! Time: 9:00 am – 2:00 pm Location: 158th and U Rd, Mayetta, KS Schedule: 9:00 – Prairie Plant Walk 9:30-11:30 – Topeka Zoo Animal Table 9:30-1:00 – Prairie Scavenger Hunt & Children’s Activities 11:30-1:00 – Lunch on the Prairie 1:00 – Prairie Restoration Walk For those interested in doing restoration work, join the Groundhogs (GHF’s volunteer restoration crew) at 9:00 am elsewhere on the property. Call GHF for details. For directions, information, and to RSVP call Kim Bellemere at 785-840-8104 or email us grasslandheritage@gmail.com.
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Prairie Village, KS. Dennis Patton, Horticulture Agent for Johnson County K-State Research and Extension, will lead a discussion that will focus on “The Best and the Worst” roses based on the data collected by the K-State Research and Extension office and the shared experiences of our members and guests. Dennis, an Extension Agent for over 30 years, is responsible for management of The Master Gardeners, consulting with the horticulture industry and local governments, and coordination of a wide variety of community education activities. We invite members and guests to bring reports and pictures of roses that thrived in their gardens and those that didn’t do so well! Maybe this meeting will help you decide if you should give that not-so-greatly blooming bush another year, transplant it to another location, or just admit that it’s not the right rose for your garden and move it out to make room for something that might be happier there! The meeting is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be provided. Members and guests are welcome to take advantage of the Consulting Rosarians Corner for a free individual consultation with a Consulting Rosarian about specific questions or concerns regarding all aspects of rose growing and care. For more information, http:/www.rosesocietyjoco.org; www.facebook.com/ JoCoRoses.
Heartland Hosta & Shade Plant Society Sat, Sep 13, 9am; at Faith Lutheran Church, 4805 W 67th St (67th & Roe) Prairie Village, KS. Hospitality planned at 9am, program to follow a brief 10am meeting. Confession of a Hostaholic: How Antiques and Antics Have Made Gardening Fun presented by Larry Tucker, Southhaven, MS. Tucker has been active in the Mid-South and AHS for two decades and was creator of the Hosta Trail; a National display garden at the Memphis Botanic Garden. Proceeds from his book, Made in the Shade: Confessions of a Hostaholic, go to support the Hosta Trail. There will be a potluck luncheon following the program, with meat and drink being furnished by the club. You may bring a dish to share. Guests are always welcome. Come and bring a friend! Info: Gwen 816-213-0598 or 816-228-9308.
Kansas City Cactus and Succulent Society Sun, Sep 21, 1-4pm; at Loose Park Garden Center, 51st and Wornall, Kansas City, MO. Membership meeting. 816784-5300
Independence Garden Club Mon, Sep 8, 6:30pm; at the home of Mary and John Richardson, 19301 E Truman Rd, Independence, MO. For more information please call 816-373-1169 or 816812-3067. Visit us at our website www. independencegardenclub.com
Leawood Garden Club Tues, Sep 23, 10:30am; at Leawood Presbyterian Church, 2715 W 83rd St. About noon, Crystal Broadus-Waldam, Horticulture Manager at the Kansas City Zoo, will present What Does it Take to Manage the Landscape and Habitats at the Kansas City Zoo? The Kansas City Zoo holds over 1000 animals and covers more than 200 acres in historic Swope Park. The meeting is open to everyone
Johnson County Rose Society Thurs, Sep 11, 7pm; at Prairie Village Community Center, 7720 Mission Rd,
Kaw Valley Herbs Study Group Tues, Sep 9, 7pm; at Unitarian Fellowship of Lawrence, 1263 N 1100 Rd. We explore all aspects of an herb: growing & harvesting, historical lore, culinary virtues, medicinal merits, and aromatherapy, household, and cosmetic applications. Our gatherings are fun and educational, and jam-packed with useful information, including relevant demonstrations. Everyone with an interest in herbs is welcome. There is a $2 charge to cover costs (KVHSG is a non-profit group; no charge for students). No pets. Nursing babies and children over 10 are welcome. herbstudygroup@gmail.com
The Kansas City Gardener / September 2014
and guests are most welcome. Bring a sack lunch – beverages and desserts provided. For more information, please visit our website www.leawoodgardenclub. org, send an email to leawoodgardenclub@gmail.com or call 913-642-3317. Lee’s Summit Garden Club Tues, Sep 9, 7-9pm; at Winterset Park Community Center, 2505 SW Wintercreek Dr, Lee’s Summit, MO 64081. Our speakers will be Sherry Potts and Constanza Savysky, both Lee’s Summit Garden Club members. Their topic will be “Composting”. Refreshments will be provided, visitors are always welcome. Visit www.leessummitgardenclub.org or call 816-540-4036 for more information. Lenexa Field and Garden Club Tues, Sep 9, 6-7pm; Will tour the Blue Valley Wilderness Science Center which is located behind the Blue Valley Middle School. For more information, check out this link: http://wsc.bluevalleyk12.org/ index.cfm Learn more about the club at www.lenexafieldandgardenclub.org. Northland Garden Club Tues, Sep 16, 7pm; at Sherwood Bible Church, 4900 N Norton, Kansas City, MO (just south and west of Penguin Park). The Garden Club will feature a presentation on “Peony Varieties & Care” from the Heartland Peony Society. Please check website for additional information: www.northlandgardenclub.com. Orchid Society of Greater Kansas City Sun, Sep 14, Beginners Group starts at 1:30pm. General meeting and presentation at 2:15; Lenexa Senior Center, 13420 Oak St, Lenexa, KS. Joe Lankton, American Orchid Society Judge and expert grower, “Growing Paphiopedilums, the Lady Slipper Orchid”. Open to the public. www.osgkc.org Sho Me African Violets Fri, Sep 12, 10:30am-2pm; at Loose Park Garden Center, 51st and Wornall, Kansas City, MO. Membership meeting. 816-784-5300
Events, Lectures & Classes September Greater Kansas City Dahlia Society Powell Gardens Show Aug 30 and 31; at Powell Gardens, 1609 NW US Hwy 50, Kingsville, MO 64061. (East of Kansas City on US Hwy 50). For more information go to www.powellgardens.org Lawn Care Professional Workshop Thurs, Sep 4, 8:30am-2:30pm; at the MU Extension Office, 1106 W Main St, Blue Springs, MO 64015. This workshop is great for home owners too and will be conducted by MU instructors. Will cover wide range of topics from understanding soil and soil test results, lawn renovation, mowing, fertility, aeration, watering, disease problem, insect problems, lawn diagnosis and sample submission. Fee
$35 and includes lunch. Please register by Sep 1. Call Sara Hill at 816-252-5051 or email hillsara@missouri.edu for information and registration. Fall Plant Sale Sep 4-6. 9am-5pm Fri; 9am-Noon Sat; at Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens, 8909 W 179th St, Overland Park, KS 66013. Fall Plant Sale. A preview sale for Friends of the Arboretum members only, on Thursday evening (Sep 4) from 4-7pm. FOTA members receive a 10% discount throughout the sale. Flower Show Sep 4, 5, and 6. The Olathe Garden & Civic Club will sponsor a flower show in conjunction with Johnson County Old Settler’s Days. If you have that special rose, tomato, vine or potato you’ve grown, you can enter it Thurs Sep 4th from 6 to 8pm or Fri Sep 5th from 7:30 to 9am. We welcome public entries and it’s free! Viewing will be Fri 1 to 8pm and Sat 9am to 3pm. For more information, call Joan Shriver - 913-492-3566. Must-Have Perennials Thurs, Sep 4, 11:30am-1pm; at Sunflower Meeting Room, Wyandotte County Extension Office, 1208 N 79th St, Kansas City, KS. Sponsored by the Wyandotte County Extension Master Gardeners. Presented by Merle Sharpe, Johnson County Extension Master Gardener. $5.00 fee. You are welcome to bring your lunch. Registration not required. Call 913-299-9300 for more information. Jazz in the Roses Sun, Sep 7, 4:30-6:30pm; at the Laura Conyers Smith Rose Garden, Jacob L Loose Memorial Park, 5200 Pennsylvania, Kansas City, MO 64112. Jazz in the Roses featuring New Red Onion Jazz Babies. Free and Open to the public. For more information go to www. kansascityrosesociety.com Moonlight & Mint Julep Garden Tour Sep 12. At the one-acre, award-winning garden of Marla and Dan Galetti. Here you will experience a garden created by a true plant collector featuring both native and collected specimens. Lighting ranges from professionally installed lighting to ambient lighting added by Marla. Check the garden club website at www.northlandgardenclub.com for further information. Advance tickets are required and may be obtained by calling Dee West at 816-455-4013. Price is $10 each and includes a refreshing drink. Map and directions provided. Greater Kansas City Dahlia Society’s 67th Annual Dahlia Show Sat, Sep 13, 1-4pm; Sun, Sep 14, 11am3pm; at Loose Park Garden Center, 5200 Pennsylvania Ave, (Near 51st St and Wornall Rd), Kansas City, MO 64122. Open to the Public. Find the Greater Kansas City Dahlia Society on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ pages/Greater-Kansas-City-DahliaSociety/174531619237937 or at http:// kcdahlia.blogspot.com/.
September 2014 / The Kansas City Gardener
(continued on page 28)
Photo by Judy Moser.
Bring the kids to Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens for
Hedge Apple Day Sun., Sept. 28 Noon to 4:00 p.m. Come out to the Leatherwood Depot at the Arboretum and participate in nature crafts and more! For kids ages 2-12. No registration required. Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens 8909 W. 179th Street Overland Park, KS 66013 www.opabg.org FREE FOTA members; $3 non-members Contact: Katharine Garrison 913-685-3604 katharine.garrison@opkansas.org 27
Industry News ATTENTION GREEN INDUSTRY PROFESSIONALS
Professional Evening at Powell Gardens “What’s New in Horticulture” September 22, 2014 4:00 to 8:30 p.m. PRESENTING SPONSOR: McHutchinson Horticultural Distributors Cost: $18 per person Includes Admission/Programs/Dinner Registration deadline: September 6 To register contact Emalie Wance at 816-697-2600 x234 or powellgardens.org/professionalevening EVENING AGENDA 4:00 Tours of Powell Gardens: Annuals, Edibles, Trees, Production 5:30 Programs “Eye Catching New Annuals”: Vaughn Fletcher, McHutchison Hort. Distributors Or -Alan Branhagen, Powell Gardens 6:30 Dinner – by Bates City BBQ 7:15 Programs: “New Trees & Shrubs for the Heartland”Natalia Hamill, Bailey Nurseries or “New & Exciting Perennials for 2015” -Scott Swift, Swift Greenhouses 8:30 Closing 28
Upcoming Garden Events places to go, things to do, people to see
(continued from page 27)
Herbal Home Remedies Sat, Sep 13, 1-4pm; at Powell Gardens. Learn to use poultices, compresses, soups and salves for overall good health. Discover ways to preserve wild and cultivated herbs for future use. We’ll take a short walk to identify and harvest herbs and make a healing salve from collected herbs. Hands-on demonstrations, samples and handouts included. $39/person, $34/ member. Registration required by Sep 8. To register call Linda Burton at 816-6972600 ext 209. Or register online at www. powellgardens.org/AdultClasses. Daylily Fundraiser for Holy Rosary Altar Society Sat, Sep 13, 9am-3pm, Sun, Sep 14, 11am-3pm; at Holy Rosary Church, 610 South 4th St, Clinton, MO 64735. Over 200 varieties. Pictures available for most. $3.00 per bulb. Growing Orchids at Home Fri, Sep 19, 9am-noon; at Powell Gardens. Selecting orchids suitable for the home environment is an important first step to successfully growing your own. Receive an orchid and learn how to get it off to the right start. Through lecture, demonstration and hands-on experience, you will learn the basic care of orchids. Extra orchids will be available for purchase. $34/person, $25/member. Registration required by Sep 15. Call Linda Burton at 816-697-2600 ext 209. Or register online at powellgardens.org/AdultClasses. Apple Butter Festival Fri, Sep 19, 5-7pm Peeling Party/Sat Sep 20, 7am-3pm (stirring and canning); at The Gardens at Unity Village 150-B NW Colbern Rd, Lee’s Summit, MO (1/4 mile west of the Douglas/Colbern intersection). We’re firing up the copper kettles on the west lawn again! Friday evening’s Apple Peeling Party is followed by an early morning start over camp-fires to turn apples, organic cinnamon and sugar into some of the best apple butter you’ve ever tasted! Free. Call 816-769-0259 leave a message to make a reservation. Caterpillar Defense Strategies Sat, Sep 20, 10-11:30am; at Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens, 8909 W 179th St, Overland Park, KS 66013. Lenora Larson will educate class participants on caterpillar defense mechanisms. Register online at http://arfop. donorshops.com/index.php; $5 FOTA members; $8 non-members. 913-685-3604 Bent Willow Furniture Workshop Sat, Sep 20, 9am-3pm; at Powell Gardens. Come build and leave with a bent-willow heirloom. Bring a hammer, pruning shears and work gloves. Projects choices include a historical bent willow chair, a
one-shelf potting bench, a garden bench, end table or two trellises. Select your project upon registration: Bent Willow Chair $265/person, $249/member, OneShelf Potting Bench $239/person, $224/ member, Garden Bench $110/person, $96/member, End Table $59/person, $52/ member, or 2 Trellises (36”x24”x 84”) $69/person, $62/member. Registration required by Sep 8. To register call Linda Burton at 816-697-2600 ext 209. Or register online at www.powellgardens.org/ AdultClasses. Ornamental Grasses in the Landscape Tues, Sep 23, 6:40-8:30pm; room 129, Raytown South Middle School, 8401 E 83rd, Raytown, MO 64138. Learn about a wide selection of ornamental grasses offering practical, lower maintenance choices, for landscapes as well as satisfying aesthetic principles like interesting textures and forms. If you need to identify a variety in your landscape, please bring a sample. Class fee $12. To register, call Raytown Community Education 816-268-7041. Using Fresh Herbs from the Garden Wed, Sep 24 or Oct 15, 10am-noon; at 5742 Kenwood Ave (1 block west of Holmes) Kansas City, MO. Projects include herbal butter (you bring small tub, cutting board, chopping knife), herbal salt (you bring a 1 cup size jar with lid), herbal vinegar (you bring a sterilized glass 16 oz. bottle with lid). We will be tasting: Provencal herbal salad sandwich, Slow roasted herbed plum tomatoes, Exotic Lychee Nectar black tea rice dish. Two hour class offered by Paula Winchester. Minimum # of participants 6 - max 8. $25 per person. Send checks to Paula Winchester Enterprises, LLC 5742 Kenwood Ave, Kansas City, MO 64110, due by Sep 12 or Oct 2 for the 2nd offering. 816-361-2243; www. paulawinchester.com Beekeeping 301: Seasonal Management Sat, Sep 27, noon-5pm; at Powell Gardens. Learn month-by-month beehive and beekeeper management including hive inspection and maintenance, checking for food stores, feeding bees in the winter and spring build-up feeding and medication. Discover the ins and outs of the fall honey harvest, the importance of journal entries and the proper set up of the hive in the apiary. $24/person, $19/ member. Registration required by Sep 22. To register call Linda Burton at 816697-2600 ext 209. Or register online at powellgardens.org/AdultClasses.
October Landscape Re-Design and Rehabilitation Thurs, Oct 2, 11:30am-1:30pm; in the Sunflower Meeting Room, Wyandotte County Extension Office, 1208 N 79th
The Kansas City Gardener / September 2014
St, Kansas City, KS. Does your current landscape need a make-over? Has it grown out-of-control? Do you want a change? Jamie Hancock, horticulture specialist from K-State Shawnee County Extension, will give a 2-hour presentation on $5.00 fee. Registration not required. Sponsored by the Wyandotte County Extension Master Gardeners. You are welcome to bring your lunch. Call 913299-9300 for more information. Lake Lotawana Homes Tour Sat, Oct 4, 10am-5pm; We hold Homes Tours every two years and typically have six houses on tour, different from previous years. Boats rides are available for Homes Tour from 10am-4pm and depart from the Marina Grog and Gallery. Tickets $15. Ticket information contact: Rita Goppert 816-578-4344. General information contact: Natalie Byard 816-730-9007. 10th Annual Kaw Valley Farm Tour Oct 4 and 5. 27 farms in 6 counties. A self guided tour to meet local farmers and visit farms. More information and tickets at www.kawvalleyfarmtour.org Watercolor Workshop: Greeting Cards Sat, Oct 11, 9:30am-3:30pm; at Powell Gardens. Using watercolor techniques, you can create your own greeting cards. Learn painting techniques and methods for reproducing your work from a skilled professional from the greeting card industry! References and demonstrations provided. You may bring your own references for ideas. We will keep the paintings simple so you can create a variety of designs for your cards. All skill levels are welcome. $45/person, $39/ member. Registration required by Oct 6. To register call Linda Burton at 816697-2600 ext. 209. Or register online at powellgardens.org/AdultClasses. Infused Vinegars, Oils and Butters Sat, Oct 11, 10am-noon; at Powell Gardens. Using herbs, fruits and more, you will learn how to make flavorful infusions and how to use them in recipes. This class will review (and taste test) several infusions that are easy to prepare and use as toppings, in baking and even in grilling. Learn about the fresh herbs that you can grow, harvest and use to accentuate your cooking in new and unique ways. Taste several infusions and leave with recipes. $35/person, $29/
member. Registration required by Oct 6. To register call Linda Burton at 816697-2600 ext. 209. Or register online at powellgardens.org/AdultClasses. KC Walk for Farm Animals Sat, Oct 11, 11am-2pm; at Theis Park. Early adult registration is $15 and eventday registration will be $25. Children under 18 are FREE. Check in time is at 10am and Walk will start at 11am. We will have live music and an array of vegan food to sample after the walk from Mean Vegan Products to Door to Door Organics. This is a family event and dogs are welcome. Walking events are held each year in cities across the United States and Canada raising vital funds for Farm Sanctuary. For more information: KC Walk for Farm Animals Facebook page www.walkforfarmanimals.org Gardeners Gathering Thurs, Oct 16, 6:30pm; at Country Club Christian Church, 6101 Ward Parkway, Kansas City, MO. The Master Gardeners of Greater Kansas City present: “The Land Institute-Internationally Famous and Locally Obscure” with featured speaker Josh Svaty. The Land Institute is working to reverse the antagonism between agriculture and nature. Using nature as the standard, Land Institute scientists are developing perennial mixtures that can produce food in harmony with the wild. Healthy, natural prairie ecosystems provide the information to direct our paths – information we in large part disregarded when we chose the agriculture of annual grains some ten thousand years ago. Free and open to the public. No registration required. Door Prizes. For further information call 816-665-4456. Honey Harvest Sat, Oct 18, 9:30-11:30am; at The Gardens at Unity Village 150-B NW Colbern Rd, Lee’s Summit, MO (1/4 mile west of the Douglas/Colbern intersection). Rick Drake, resident beekeeper, returns to provide a fascinating handson workshop on the history, harvesting and many benefits of raw, local honey. Attendees help extract the honey and go home with their own jar of golden goodness. Cost: $15.00 ($5 to Gardens members). Call 816-769-0259 and leave a message to make a reservation, check for workshop updates, etc.
Promote your gardening events! Send information to:
The Kansas City Gardener P.O. Box 8725, Prairie Village, KS 66208 E-Mail: elizabeth@kcgmag.com Deadline for October issue is September 5. September 2014 / The Kansas City Gardener
Hotlines for Gardeners Extension Master Gardeners are ready to answer your gardening questions. Get your garden growing. DOUGLAS COUNTY
785-843-7058; mastergardener@douglas-county.com; Mon-Fri, 1-4pm
GREATER KANSAS CITY MISSOURI AREA
816-833-8733 (TREE); Mon-Fri, 9am to noon
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; Apr 15 thru Jul 1, Monday 10am-1pm, Thursday 1-4pm
MIAMI COUNTY
913-294-4306; Mon-Fri, 9am-noon
WYANDOTTE COUNTY
913-299-9300; Mon, Wed, Fri, 9am-4pm
September
Weather Repor t
Highs and Lows Avg temp 71° Avg high temp 80° Avg low temp 60° Highest recorded temp 109° Lowest recorded temp 34° Nbr of above 70° days 26
Clear or Cloudy Avg nbr of clear days 12 Avg nbr of cloudy days 10
Rain and Snow Avg snowfall 0 Avg rainfall 4.3” Avg nbr of rainy days 9 Source: WeatherReports.com
From the Almanac Moon Phases First Quarter: Sept. 2 Full Moon: Sept. 8 Last Quarter: Sept. 15
Plant Above Ground Crops: 1, 4, 5, 8, 25-28
Plant Root Crops: 8, 9, 13, 14
Control Plant Pests: 15, 16, 20-24
Transplant: 4, 5
New Moon: Sept. 24 Source: Harris’ Farmer’s Almanac
Plant Flowers: 1, 25-28
29
September
garden calendar
n LAWNS
• Early September is the best time to overseed or plant a bluegrass and tall fescue lawn. • Fertilize bluegrass and tall fescue with high nitrogen fertilizer. • Core aerate bluegrass and tall fescue to improve soil and reduce thatch layer. • Mow turf at 2 to 3 inches. • Sharpen lawn mower blades to give a clean cut. • Check lawn mower and change oil and air filter. • Zoysia season is winding down so do not fertilize or aerate. • Keep leaves mulched or picked up to avoid turf shading.
n FLOWERS
• Prepare soil and plant spring flowering bulbs. • Dig, divide or plant peonies. • Divide overgrown perennials such as hostas. • Remove spent flowers from perennials to prevent reseeding. • Improve soil by the addition of organic matter such as compost or peat moss. • Purchase chrysanthemums for a splash of fall color. • Remove missed weeds from the garden to reduce seeding.
n VEGETABLES AND FRUITS
• Harvest fall vegetables and enjoy. • Plant a late fall crop of lettuce, spinach and radishes. • Remove weeds before they produce seeds.
• Pick pumpkins and winter squash and store for fall and winter use. • Clean out garden debris to reduce insect and disease problems. • Till soil and incorporate organic matter for next season. • Have a soil test taken and add needed nutrients this fall or early next spring. • Remove rotted fruits from around trees. • Remove damaged limbs and branches from fruit trees. • Fertilize strawberries and keep well watered to encourage flower bud formation.
n TREES AND SHRUBS
• Plant new trees and shrubs. • Replenish mulch layer. • Prune dead, hazardous or broken limbs. • Rake leaves and compost or use as mulch in the garden. • Check tree stakes for damage to trunks and remove ones that have been in place for more than a year.
n HOUSEPLANTS
• Move plants back indoors when temperatures drop into low 60’s. • Wash off and clean summered plants to reduce insects coming into the home. • Reduce fertilization of houseplants as light levels decrease. • Water as needed. • Rotate plants for even light distribution and light.
Johnson County K-State Research and Extension recommends environmentally-friendly gardening practices. This starts by identifying and monitoring problems. Cultural practices and controls are the best approach for a healthy garden. If needed, use physical, biological or chemical controls. Always consider the least toxic approach first. Dennis Patton is the horticulture agent for Johnson County K-State Research and Extension. For free information fact sheets, visit www.johnson.ksu.edu, or call the Extension office at 913-715-7000.
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Check out the September Garden Giveaway!
Professional’s Corner
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GARDENER A Monthly Guide to Successful Gardening
For convenient mail delivery, complete the form below and send with your check for $20.00. You will receive a one-year subscription to The Kansas City Gardener. Name: Address: City, State, Zip: Phone: E-mail: Where did you pick up The Kansas City Gardener? Please enclose your check payable to The Kansas City Gardener and mail with this form to: P.O. Box 8725, Prairie Village, KS 66208 The Kansas City Gardener is published monthly Jan. through Dec.
September 2014 / The Kansas City Gardener
After 45 years of providing quality garden products to Kansas City gardeners, Tony and Neva Mistretta are looking forward to more time with family. Company: Bannister Garden Center Owners: Tony and Neva Mistretta Established: 1967 How Bannister Garden Center got started: Tony started selling produce off the back of a truck, then in a temporary building, and graduated to selling plants after about 5-6 years. We began growing our own plants soon after and added more greenhouses. He did landscaping for many years and started offering nursery stock and trees. We both have always liked working with plants and people. Tony had worked in the produce business all of his life and knew he wanted to offer quality products at a reasonable price. We both have enjoyed watching seedlings grow into plants that our customers wanted to plant in their yards. What we have done for the last 45 years is very rewarding. We have enjoyed especially doing custom plantings for folks and have learned to plant many different combination baskets, planters and pots. Creating beautiful colors with plants is a lot of fun. Seasonal products offered: We will have a full fall program with mums, pansies, asters, straw, pumpkins and all fall gardening needs. Time for retirement? Yes, after 45 years in business, we are ready to retire. As of 1/1/2015 Bannister Garden Center will be officially closed. What kind of sales are happening between now and then? All merchandise is discounted and there will be an auction on Saturday, November 8, 2014. Bannister has been an excellent local source for peonies. Will they still be available? No need to worry about access to our beautiful peonies. Peonies will be ready this fall. We will still operate the fields of peonies. After closing the garden center, peonies can be ordered on line at peonies.net. What’s next? We are looking forward to more time spent with family. Tony will be working at the peony fields for a couple of years. And honestly, it will be nice to have week-ends off. Last words for the gardening community: Thanks to everyone for their years of patronage and friendship. We will miss our customers. Keep digging and planting! Contact: mailing address is PO Box 14, Raymore, Mo. 64083. We are located 10001 E. Bannister Rd., Kansas City, Mo. Hours: open 8am-6pm daily, 8am-5pm on Sunday. 816-763-4664; peonies.net; bannister11@comcast.net 31
SEPTEMBER IS FOR PLANTING
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816-942-2921 The Kansas City Gardener / September 2014