is avolunteer-based charitable organization whose purpose is to mspzre passion, respect and
scape and a healthy environment. Since its inception in 1958, the Toronto Botanical ,Garden formerly The Civic aged stimulatedandeducated
countless Canadian gardeners. ore than SGfyaars later, the Toronto Botanical Garden has expanded its vision and set a goal to become a self-sustainurban oas while making
enhghtened cityinthe world.
What We Offer
Located at EdwardsGardens, the many pmgramsa.nd services, including year-round activities for families and children. Our horticultural library has over 8, 000 :COHECUOH of chppings, pamphlets, - of children s gardening books. Horticultural Information Services offers free gardening information ear-round, and shop TBG hi gardening supphes for sale. Th TeachingGardenhas beencreated as a working garden to foster, interest and ~ing and the natural world. As well, the TBG has a wide variety of banquet halls, meeting rooms and show space, with access o Gardens, one of Toronto s favourite garden spots
3¢ Directory & Hours of Operation
777 Lawrence Ave. East Toronto, ON M3C 1P2
Administrative Offices: Monday to Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
shopTBG and Weston Family Library:
® Tuesday to Friday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
® Saturday, noon to 5 p.m.
® Closed Monday and Sunday
e Open for some special events and holidays: call 416-397-1340 to inquire.
Telephone: 416-397-1340; Fax: 416-397-1354
E-mail: info@torontobotanicalgarden.ca
Master Gardeners Info Line: 416-397-1345
Noon to 3 p.m.
® April &July: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday
® May & June: Daily
® August through March: Tuesday, Wednesday and Saturday Children s Programs: 416-397-1355 childrensprograms@torontobotanicalgarden.ca Communications: 416-397-1351 communication@torontobotanicalgarden.ca Courses: 416-397-1362; programs@torontobotanicalgarden.ca Donation Inquiries: 416-397-1483 annualgiving@torontobotanicalgarden.ca TBG Events: 416-397-1484 events@torontobotanicalgarden.ca
Brian Bixley, AwdreyClarke, Mark Cullen, Camilla Dalglish, Sondra Gotlieb, Marjorie Harris, LorraineJohnson, Michele Landsberg, Susan Macauley, Helen Skinner
3% Board of Directors
PRESIDENT: Geoffrey Dyer
Dugald Cameron, Peter Cantley, KathyDembroski, Leslie Denier, TonyDiGiovanni, Heather Dickson, Suzanne Drinkwater, James E. Eckenwalder, Ralph Fernando, MaryFisher, ColombaB. Fuller, Jim Gardhouse, PeterGray-Donald, Marjorie Harris,Janet Karn, Catherine Peer, RosemaryPhelan, RobertaRoberts, Dawn Scott, Elaine M. Solway,Judith M. Willmott
Harmony Printing on recycled paperand packaged with biodegradable plastic
Trellis is published five times a year asa members newsletter by the Toronto Botanical Garden at Edwards Gardens. 777 Lawrence Avenue East, Toronto, Ontario M3C 1P2,416-397-1340.
Manuscripts submitted on a voluntary basis are gratefully received. No remuneration is possible. Articles, manuscripts and advertising material must the month to ensure publication
be received by the first of eight weeks later. For example, materialforthe September/October 2008, issue must be received hy
July 4, 2008.
Opinions expressed in Trellis do not necessarily reflect those of the TBG. Submissions may be
editedforstyle andclarity.
All rights reserved. Repfodudlon in whole or in part is prohibited without written permission.
Charitable business number: 119227486RR0001
Canada Publications Mail Product SalesAgreement#40013928
ISSN 0380-1470
10
New plants for 2008
Plant Portrait
Taraxacum officinale dandelion
Master Gardener Factsheet
Selecting a tree
Go Green
Replacing lawn with groundcovers
Library News
Book Review
Program News
12 Features Awash in the Lavender Fields of Provence by Gail Murray
Through the Garden Gate
The gardens of Riverdale
Potted Wisdom
Tips on container gardening
Gone to Pots
Earth-friendly container options
Confessions of a Garden Tourist
An interview with Myint Gillespie
Spotlight On
Tofino Botanical Gardens
Gardenimport
Celebrating 25 years!
Cover photo: Amanda Stapells
from the TBG
by Margo Welch e EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR I
Moving Towards the Future
ith the TBG gardens entering their Wsecond full year, the TBG s activities for the growing season include the variety of gardening courses and lectures on which we have built our reputation with the added advantage of being able to use our gardens as classrooms for many of these programs. We have recruited more gardening volunteers who will be trained to work alongside our staff gardeners, so visitors will see more activity outdoors than ever before.
The TBG has been and will continue to be active in areas of growing interest to Toronto gardeners, such as urban biodiversity, ravine ecology, sustainable building and engaging the larger community in collaborative programs.
Following the highly successful Green Roof Conference held in February, where more than 200 people heard experts from North America and Europe share their knowledge and experience of green roof design and technology, the TBG is continuing to provide leadership in related areas of sustainable building. The straw-bale shed built this spring features a green roof (of course) and is the first registered straw-bale structure in the city. We will use it as our garden shed and as an educational tool to demonstrate a unique form of sustainable building.
TorontoWaterhas requested our services at five water filtration plants. Under the direction of Cathie Cox, TBG gardeners will provide design and maintenance services in sites across the city. This opportunity provides needed revenue and an opportunity to promote both the TBG and
the ravine bank directly to the west ofour gardens. The Toronto and Region Conservation Authority has oversight responsibility for ravines and we look forward to workingwith them in eliminating invasive species and replacing them with appropriate native species. Restoring our ravines will provide better habitat for wildlife and we anticipate an increase in the population of birds in Edwards Gardens and Wilket Creek.
In partnership with Second Base Youth Shelter, Landscape Ontario and Humber College, the TBG is embarkingon an excitingnew initiative to train 20 young people for the landscape trades. The youth have been carefully selected from priority neighbourhoods to participate. They will attend classroom and outdoor instruction at the TBG fromJune toAugust and, after completing the program, will be placed in jobs. There is a shortage of labour in the landscape industry and a shortage ofjob training opportunities for manyyouth. It is a goal ofthis program to address both needs.
Looking to the future and the financial well-being of the TBG, we have renewed our efforts with the city to explore ways of increasing its role as a contributing partner. Meetings have been held with Mayor Miller and city manager Shirley Hoy and we will continue to investigate avenues of support.®
good gardening practices. ph: 705474042276 + wildgingernpn@yahoo.ca www.wildgingernursery.ca
It is hoped that this year work will be done to restore
Memories of a TBG Receptionist
bySheila Kinross
SHORTLY BEFORE RETIRING from my secretarial position at Havergal Day Camp, I met a former work colleague at the Mistletoe Magic craft sale. She had become a receptionist at the CGC and, wanting to move along into a different area, suggested I take her place at the front desk on Thursday mornings. The idea appealed to me, and thus began, in January 1994, a very happy nine years of volunteering with the CGC.
Sitting at the desk in such lovely atriumstyle surroundings was a great treat. Answering queries over the phone, keeping our front foyer magazine rack well stocked with brochures from all the hort societies and other duties ensured a variety of interesting activity. A special friendship developed with Frances MacDonald who worked in the Library during my reception mornings. Although we are no longer volunteers, we continue to attend TBG functions together.
During my years at the CGC I was also phone co-ordinator for the 7rellis labels group, which met periodically to prepare magazines for mailing. (Yes, we had to stick a label on each of some 2,500 magazines.) These get-togethers provided an opportunity for stimulating conversations amongst the eight to 10 of us seated around a large table. As well, it was a privilege to write for 7rellis, and I was delighted when two of my articles were published: A Late Fall Black-Eyed Susan (Jan/Feb. 1997) and Memories of the Crabapple Tree (Sept/Oct. 1998).
Volunteering at the CGC was certainly a progressive, fulfilling and thoroughly enjoyable stage of my life.
Help the TBG celebrate 50 years by contributingafunny, poignant or historical story or factoid about your experiences as a member of the TBG/CGC. Contact us by mail at Trellis Editor, 777Lawrence Ave. E., Toronto M3C IP2 or e-mail at trellis@torontobotanicalgarden.ca.
FRIENDS OFTORONTO BOTANICAL GARDEN
Thank you to the following Friends for providing generous support towards our programs and services. Our Friends arefundamental to the TBG s ability to educate and provide the community with the most valuable and up-to-date information on gardening and horticulture. The following individuals made donations to the Friends Program from December 22, 2007 to February 29, 2008.
PRESIDENT S CIRCLE
($5,000 +)
Deane & Mary Nesbitt
DIRECTOR S CIRCLE
($2,500 - $4,999)
Peter Guinane
Jim Harbell
Ronald Holbrook
June Knudsen
Sonja Koerner
Anonymous Linda Ledgett
Leslie & George Denier Mai-Liis McCoy
BENEFACTORS
($1,000 - $2,499)
Alex Makuz
Mary McDougall Maude & Rosemary Phelan Philip Maude
SUSTAINING MEMBERS
($500 - $999)
Joanne Miko
Myles Mindham & Suzanne & David
Drinkwater
Robert Nowe
David & Elizabeth Sisam
KarenTrotter
FRIENDS
($140 - $499)
Anonymous (3)
Roger & Janice Barton
May Copland
Barbara Fleming
Colomba Fuller
Stephen Gilles
Ailsa Moulsdale
Nicholas & Michelle Pairaudeau
Doryne Peace
Joy Reddy
Maureen Simpson
Sally Somers
Jane Welch
Joyce Westlake
Trudy Wright
CONGRATULATIONS
TORONTO MASTER GARDENERS CELEBRATE
VOLUNTEER SERVICE ANNIVERSARIES
20 Years
Rosemary Dobson
Norma Phillips
Kim Price
Susan Dolbey GeraldYates
Vivien Jenkinson 5Years
Linda McCrossan
10 Years
Merle Burston
Lindsay Dale-Harris
JoAnn Moysey
Murray Duncan
Catherine Nixon
Thade Rachwal
Elizabeth Stewart
TenaVan Andel
by Liz Hood ® CHILDREN S PROGRAMS SUPERVISOR
Rivers of Green
THE NEXT TIME YOU VISIT the TBG, don t forget to take a very special walk down to the creek. Look downstream what do you see? If you follow the path of the water through Edwards Gardens and along Wilket Creek Park to Sunnybrook Park, you will be travelling a river of green. This green corridor is part of a ravine system that runs through our city, providing a safe way for birds, bugs, mammals and seeds to travel.
These green corridors are sanctuaries for wildlife, safe places where they can find homes, food, mates and special places to raise their young. Outside these green rivers are the roads and cars, pavement and people. Although some animals have become good at living close to humans, many have not. These quiet places with water, trees and wildflowers are the last homes and travel routes for creatures like salamanders, owls, dragonflies and foxes living in the city.
Toronto is a great place to see these green corridors. We have two big rivers the Don and the Humber - that flow through our city, in addition to parks and the beaches of Lake Ontario.
Can you think of a favourite green corridor in your neighbourhood?
If you love wildlife and want to help them have a safe home, consider ways you and your family could help. Picking up garbage near a local creek (with gloves!) would be a great start. What other ways can you think of?@
WHAT ANIMALS LIVE IN THE GREEN CORRIDOR?
Look at these pictures of the animals. Circle the ones that need a green corridor for a home.
DOORS OPEN
May 24 and 25, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
In keeping with this year s Doors Open theme of Sacred Spaces, Sacred Circles, theTBG is celebrating the culture of ) India. Activities include traditional kite making, sand painting, scavenger hunts y \ and more! All programs are FREE, no registration required.
by Cathie Cox ® DIRECTOR, HORTICULTURE
New Plants for 2008 -
THE TOP TRENDS IN 2008 are sustainable drought-tolerant plants that flourish despite the challenges of climate change, perennials that extend the gardening season, and plants, especially native wildflowers, which provide habitat and food for insects and wildlife. The popularity of ferns continues to grow, too.
Yarrow (Achillea spp. and cvs.) is a vigorous drought-tolerant plant; this year the new ones from Holland are sturdy, floriferous, longer blooming and compact. A. millefolium Strawberry Seduction has velvety red flowers with gold centres, PinkGrapefruit has deep rose pinkflowers and Pomegranate has striking magenta blooms. Stonecrops (Sedum spp. and cvs.) are even more drought tolerant. Sedum spurium Blaze is a groundcover with bronze foliage and ruby red flowers while S.s. Voodoo has deep red foliage and pink flowers. Taller stonecrops more suitable for the border include S. Chocolate with bronze-brown foliage and salmon pink flowers, the more compact S. telphinium Picolette with deep bronze foliage and pink flowers, S. t. Bon Bon with chocolatey-purple foliage
and pink flowers as well as Red Cauli with grey-blue foliage and cherry red flowers.
Hyssops (Agastache cvs.) tolerate heat and drought, attract butterflies and have aromatic foliage. Agastache Raspberry Summer has large spikes ofdeep pink flowers, whileA. Purple Haze produces a forest of violet-blue flowers. The more compactA. cana Purple Pygmy , producing a mass of deep purple spikes, is perfect for the front of a border or a smaller garden.
There is an abundance of purple coneflowers but with their ability to flower for long periods and attract butterflies, new varieties are always worth trying. Echinacea purpurea Pink Double Delight has the wow factor of Razzmatazz with large, double, bright pink flowers but half the height. E. Raspberry Tart is another compact variety with masses of smaller, deep magenta-purple flowers. E. p. Purity is good for cut flowers and the border, with its vigorous, strongly branching habit and masses of pristine white flowers with orange centres.
Hellebores (Helleborus cvs.) are also in the limelight. There are two outstanding yellow-
flowered new releases: the Golden Lotus strain has rich yellow, double flowers while Mellow Yellow has single flowers splashed and edged with rich apricot.
Hakonechloa macra Stripe It Rich and Beni-kaze are two recently released Japanese forest grasses, the former with white-striped golden foliage and the latter with green foliage with red tints in the fall. This hardy perennial is slow to start but worth the wait.
Double forms of our native rue anemone (Anemonella thalictroides) have been achieving cult status in North America and are often difficult to obtain. A. ¢£. Cameo is a pale pink to white, fully double form while Green Hurricane has curious, twisted, double green petals.
Helleborus MellowYellow
Bellflowers (Campanula cvs.) are always popular and C. persicifolia Blue-Eyed Blonde should stand out with its golden straplike foliage and deep blue bell-like flowers.
C. p. La Belle is another striking form with deep blue, fully double flowers.
There are many recently introduced ferns: Athyrium Ocean s Fury , a crested painted fern, is a clumping type with greygreen crested foliage that appears lightly silvered. A. otophorum var. okanum, the eared lady fern, has lush pale-green foliage which matures to a rich grey-green with maroon stems.
There are many new perennials with interesting foliage, such as Heuchera Georgia Peach (peach overlaid with white), Citronelle (chartreuse yellow) and French Quarter (red, white and green). The most striking in this family is Heucherella Alabama Sunrise , with chartreuse foliage and deep red veins.
Most of these perennials, together with a wide selection of unusual annuals and heritage vegetables, will be available at the Collectible Plant Sale, May 13 to 17.0
L PLANTCOLLECTIBLESALE
ANNUALS & PERENNIALS
Wednesday to Friday, May 14 to 16, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, May 17, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
¢ New releases, proven winners, unusual and rare plants, including annuals, perennials, native wildflowers, deciduous and evergreen shrubs
o] Knowledgeable assistance from the Toronto Master Gardeners and horticulturists
3! 2 Note: no pre-orders, but a partial plant list will be posted at torontobotanicalgarden.com.
MEMBERS ONLY SHOPPING DAY! Tuesday, May 13, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. ARRIVE
In the Lavender Fields of Provence
InthefilmCharlotteGray,thericketywoodentrain
Cate Blanchett rides to a reunion with her World War II resistance fighter lover passes through row upon row ofdeep purple lavender fields.
It was this poignant scene that sparked my interest in Provence where no sojourn is complete without a romp in the lavender fields. To see this blue gold in flower, timing is everything. Lavender blooms from mid-June to mid-July and most of the harvesting takes place in the third or fourth week ofJuly.
Together with a friend, I set out from Avignon in June 2007, driving a route that encompassed the Musée de la Lavande at Coustellet, Sénanque Abbey, the perched village of Gordes and enchanting Sault.
I saw my first lavender growing in the mountain valley outside the Abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque, where the pastel mauve lavender softens and warms the austere Romanesque architecture of the Cistercian abbey. Here, you can tour the abbey and purchase lavender honey produced by the monks.
Our next stop was the Musée de la Lavande at Coustellet, housed in an ancient stone farmhouse, where you can see a film showing how lavender
plants are grown in clumps, much like wheat, which are about two feethigh bythree feetwide. The flowers are cut with a small tractor or harvester, then gathered and distilled to collect the essential oils. The boutique at the museum is a tour de force offragrance and colour. Theyhave it all here: perfumes, shower gels, creams, bubble bath, candles, diffusers, incense, sachets and pure essential oil. (The Gel Circulatoire soothed the muscles of this traveller.)
The name lavender derives from the mediaeval Latin word lavandula whose origin is uncertain but ancient tradition claims it goes back to the Latin word lavare , which means to wash. Provence was a favourite province of Imperial Rome s retiring generals, and the Romans used lavender to scent baths and newly washed linen. The pure essential oil of Lavandula angustifolia is said to have medicinal properties and can treat insomnia, irritability, headaches, cuts, burns, sunburn, insect bites, colds, sore throats and rheumatism.
A member of the same family as sage, rosemary and thyme, there are three kinds of lavender: true blue, spike and lavandin (a hybrid of the first two and produced in quantity). Ifyou
If You Go
IFYOU PLANTO DRIVE, a good base is in the Drome toVaucluse region in upper Provence where you can stay at accommodation as diverse as a working farm, a sixteenth-century castle or a stone mill. Without a car, mini-van tours run from Avignon, taking in the picturesque Luberon villages and culminating at Sault. ® routes-lavande.com offers a comprehensive listing of accommodation, maps and a history of lavender.
® visitprovence.com provides a good overview of the area.
¢ museedelalavande.com, the lavender museum in Coustellet, features an audio guide, boutique and an informative brochure listing farms, accommodation, hiking and driving routes. e saultenprovence.com is the Web site of the village of Sault.
plan to buy essential oil, paya little more to be sure it s from the more subtly scented lavender and not lavandin. Most shopkeepers are willing to explain the difference.
From Coustellet we drove up steep mountain passes and gorges, first climbing and then descending to Sault, which is surrounded by fields of luscious lavender. In the village, you
can browse the shops selling Provencal prints in deep blues and sunfloweryellows. Orange cats laze on wrought iron balconies and geraniums burst bright with colour from shuttered balconies.
On another day, after café, croissants and an omelette, we headed for the fields of true blue lavender outside the tiny town of Séderon located high in the Haut Vaucluse and known as the cradle of lavender. En route are double plantings of lavender and olive trees, and even the distant mountains have a blue tint. In Séderon, we happened upon a wedding ceremony where fresh sprigs of lavender tied with white silk ribbon adorned a balcony doorway.
The French have a way with beauty. Even their traffic circles have the emblematic plants of Provence rosemary, lavender and olive trees. This vision is locked in my memory, along with the vivid palette of the countryside s colours electric blue sky, emerald vineyards, deep purple lavender.®
After a successful career as English teacher and librarian, GailMurray became a TGB tourguide andfreelance writer, realizing her travel dreams and sharing her adventures in print.
he twenty-first annual Through the Garden Gate tourwill feature the private gardens of Riverdale the kind of community Pierre Trudeau must have dreamed about when he first proposed that Canada formally adopt a policy of multiculturalism. The area is truly a mix of people from a wide variety of economic, educational, social, cultural and ethnic backgrounds. On any given weekend, you can see a family of new immigrants trading recipes with the gay couple next door, or an elderly artist, a long-term resident, chatting up the young professionals who ve just moved in.
The gardens of Riverdale are as diverse as the residents. You'll see everything from tranquil, flowing Japanese-type gardens to English cottage-style gardens featuring a riot of colours and shapes and everything in between. Many of the residents are passionate about gardening, getting together to attend plant sales and crow about their bargains and unusual finds. Many of the gardens are small, so full advantage is taken of every bit of space. Vines clamber up every available vertical area, and lawns are replaced by closely planted, colourful borders filled with plants generously traded among neighbours. Some of the area s gardeners have plenty of money to lavish on their gardens while others have to be clever about their purchases. You won't be able to tell which is which!
Riverdale (originally called Riverside) began as a small rural community and grew in response to the increased availability of transportation. The
Grand Trunk Railway s eastern line from Montreal crossed the Don River south of Queen Street in 1856 and industry and its workers followed. Then in 1888 the Toronto Street Railway established a streetcar line along Broadview, and in 1919
Through the Garden Gate
Saturday, June 14, and Sunday, June 15, 2008; 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
One-day pass: public $40 /TBG members $35 (tickets are limited, advance purchase recommended). The pass includes: Comprehensive Garden Guide, access to more than 25 beautiful private gardens and complimentary shuttle service throughout the day.
For tickets and information, call 416-397-1484. Tickets are often sold out before the event, so purchase your tickets early and call ahead to check availability:
e Sheridan Nurseries, 2827Yonge Street, 416-481-6429
Note: Some gardens are not wheelchair accessible. Bicycles and strollers are not permitted in the gardens. Tour headquarters, located at Withrow Park, 725 Logan Avenue, will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. during the event. For more information call 416-397-1484.
constructionwas completed on the Prince Edward Viaduct (commonly called the Bloor Viaduct).
A well-known feature of the Riverdale area is the complex known today as Bridgepoint Health, a facility that focuses on patients with chronic
diseases and disabilities. It began life in 1860 as a House of Refuge , akin to today s homeless shelter. A decade later, it also became a smallpox hospital in response to the epidemic that raged throughout the city and then a treatment centre for other infectious diseases, resulting in its being renamed the Isolation Hospital in 1893. Yet another change of name to the Riverdale Hospital in 1957 reflected its increasingly multi-dimensional goals. More recently it was threatened with closure but has instead expanded and developed. The Old DonJail building on the hospital property is to be integrated into the health complex.
Riverdale s houses run from turn-of-the-century Victorians to modern light-filled residences. Hogarth Avenue, just off Withrow Park, can claim two heritage homes. The farmhouse at 58 Hogarth, built about 1875 (with a 1913 addition), was designed by City Architect Robert McCallum, who later became known for his proposal of stringent building regulations after the Toronto fire of 1904. His ideas were not universally appreciated, and in 1913 he left the city s employ when business colleagues became downright hostile to his suggestions. Just down
the street at number 69 is an Arts & Crafts home built in 1904 and originally owned by Owen Staples, the artist and engraver as well as cartoonist and illustrator for the TZoronto Evening Telegram.
Gardeninghas alonghistoryin Riverdale. Eden Smith, the prominent and innovative Toronto architect, produced the original design for the Riverdale Courts on Bain Avenue (now called Bain Apartments Co-operative). Completed in the 1920s by the Toronto Housing Company, this complex was motivated by Britain s Garden City Movement whose proponents believed the solution to the ills of industrialization was to create self-contained communities surrounded by greenbelts. This model of urban planning remains today, with its eight organic courtyard gardens, which feature herb, vegetable, meadow, native and shade gardens.
If you're looking for motivation, inspiration and a great day with (or without) the family, order your tickets now! @
Carol Gardnerisan award-winninggarden writer and a member ofthe Trellis Committee.
POTTED WISDOM
Canadian Gardening s Aldona Satterthwaite offers tips on container gardening.
I 'VE BEEN PUTTING together containers for what seems like centuries. Currently, I fill dozens of pots and planters on the sunny deck off my bedroom and in my shady front and rear gardens. Here are some basics that work for me.
e Combine plants with like requirements. You'll save yourself a lot of work (and disappointment).
e Consider the right plant for the right place. When gardening on high, for example, anything too delicate can get badly battered by wind. If you want a tropical look, opt for something sturdy, such as spiky New Zealand flax, instead of floppy leaved cannas or elephant s ears, which can look tattered mighty fast.
e There is no such thing as one size fits all soil. For best performance, create a custom mix. Depending on the requirements of the plants to be potted, I might enhance a good commercial container soil (not houseplant potting soil, which I find too heavy) with amendments such as compost, perlite, grit or, in some cases, SoilSponge (a coir product that retains moisture and cuts down on watering), mixing it all up in a garbage can.
e Plants in pots are crowded and need to be fed regularly. If you tend to be a bit slapdash about this, check out a commercial soil with slowrelease fertilizer already in it.
e Mulch. This suppresses weeds and keeps in moisture. I use moss or bark, topped off with small stones. If critters dig up your plants, take black sewing thread and wind it around plant stems, like a web. You won' t see it, but animals won't like sticking their paws in it.
e When gardening on a balcony (or with a bad back), lighten the load by recycling chunks of Styrofoam at the bottom of a large container. Cover this with a piece of screen cut to fit, then top up with your soil mix one caveat: make sure your pot has enough ballast so it doesn t topple over. Saucers with casters make it easy to move pots around. If you re a balcony gardener,
A FRESH TWIST ON CONTAINER GARDENING
Sunday, May 18, 2008, 1 to 4:00 p.m. Join Aldona Satterthwaite, editor-in-chief of Canadian Gardening, for a container planting workshop on how to create stylish new looks for your pots, urns and hanging baskets. TBG members $45 / Public $55. To register: 416-397-1341.
invest in a small-gauge, coil-type hose. It hooks up to an indoor sink, stores neatly and eliminates the need to lug around a heavy watering can.
e Unless you re creating a pond in a pot, drainage is critical. Some fancy planters don t have drainage holes (what were they thinking?). Don t pass these by drill some yourself. Incidentally, there s no need to put pot shards at the bottom of a container for drainage.®
* Pruning ¢ Cabling
* Root Treatments
® Insect & Disease Treatment
* Removal & Stump Grinding
* Skoot Rodent Repellent
* Anti-desiccant Protection
Fertilization
One-Day Pass
*Tickets are limited, advance purchase recommended
Headquarters located in Withrow Park, 725 Logan Avenue
Tickets on sale NOW at www.torontobotanicalgarden.ca shop TBG
In thisfourth in a series on global warming, Carol Gardnerand Lorraine Hunterexplore earth-friendly options.
If you're like most of us, you prob-
ably have a stack of plastic pots from last year cluttering up your garden shed. Now that planting season is upon us, it s time to start thinking about how to deal with even more pots we ll be bringing home from the nurseries.
It s reassuring to know that the City of Toronto s new blue boxes, which are becoming available this year, will be accepting Polystyrene items including plant trays and flower pots. But that doesn t change the fact that many will end up in landfill because some people choose not to recycle, or they may not know they can, and outside the GTA and at the cottage, municipalities may not have blue box pick-up. Plastics, like the ones used to make plant pots, are made from fossil fuels, which are non-renewable resources, and once they end up in the landfill, they don t decompose.
However, there are several biodegradable alternatives coming on stream. Manufacturing and horticultural businesses are continuing to seek environmentally friendly materials for the production and display of ornamental plants.
While some people are looking forward to the day when these products will be made from such lightweight, biodegradable materials as soy, chicken
Ways to Recycle in the Garden
* Make your own compostor order it bythe yard rather than buyingit in packagedbags which need tobe disposed of.
o Add coffee grounds to yeur compost to help break it down faster Apparently,earthworms are just as addicted tocoffeeas we are; aftermaking a meal of the grounds, they add their own contribution .
« Coffee groundscan alsobe added to thesoil around acid-lovingplants such asrhododendrons. Thenitrogen in thegrounds will help the plant with leaf development.
* A circle of crushed eggshells around your plants will protect them from slugs and cutworms; the little devils won t cross the sharpedges.
* Dig potassium-rich banana peels (inner side down) about 15 centimetres (six inches) into the soil around your roses.
o Reuse discardedpanty hose andplasticgrocery bags to tie plants and vegetables to stakes.
« Use Styrofoam packing pellets or bubble wrap to fill the bottom half of large pots; they ll provide good drainage andmakethe pots lighter.
® Reuse pdpsicle sticks for plant labels.
* Poke a few drainage holes in the bottom ofempty egg cartons and use them to start new seeds.
e Salvage old windows, doors or other construction materials to create unique artwork for your garden.
feathers or cow manure, alternatives currently sphagnum peat moss and wood pulp. Pre-formed available to home gardeners include plant pots and ready for planting, these soft-walled pots made of peat, recycled paper fibre, rice hulls, absorb water readily and promote air and water bamboo pulp and coconut husks. transfer for healthy root growth. Geraniums, Many garden centres and seed houses are New Guinea impatiens, herbs and tomatoes selling Jiffy peat pots made from Canadian in EARTHready biodegradable pots, also made
from Canadian sphagnum peat moss and wood pulp, can be found at independent garden centres, Wal-Mart and select Canadian Tire stores. All gardeners have to do is remove the label and pop the plant into the ground. The roots quickly establish themselves by growing right through the pot, which reduces transplant shock.
Although there is some concern about the sustainability of Canadian sphagnum peat moss, the Canadian Sphagnum Peat Moss Association claims that Canadian sphagnum peat moss is a sustainable resource: Annually, peat moss accumulates at more than 70 times the rate it is harvested. Harvested bogs are returned to wetlands so the ecological balance of the area is maintained.
Another alternative to plastics is coir, a renewable by-product of coconut husks. Fiber Grow coir pots, for example, can be transplanted directly into the ground and where they decompose into nutrient-rich bedding at the end of the growing year.
A few companies in the United States are offering growers other alternatives. Ball Horticultural Company and Summit Plastic Company are partnering to make going green easier. Summit is the distributor of Ball s biodegradable, compostable Ball Circle of Life pots made of rice hulls. These pots can be crushed and tossed into the compost pile where they will completely degrade within a few months. Ivy Acres of Long Island, New York, has introduced a biodegradable straw pot made from rice straw, coconut husks and a natural latex adhesive. It can be planted directly in the ground where it will decompose in three to six months.
No doubt we will be seeing more and more of these environmentally friendlyproducts as demand increases and they become more available.®
Garden writers Carol Gardner and Lorraine Hunter are members ofthe Trellis Committee.
)EN FRURIST
In an interview with Trellis, veteran tour-goer Myint Gillespie tells all.
1. How many garden tours have you taken?
#®On average, I take half a dozen garden tours a year in Ontario, both with the TBG and various horticultural societies. I also take two or three more trips a year outside Canada, mainly in the United States and Europe.
2. Do you remember your very first tour?
#My first tour with TBG was Through the Garden Gate in 2002. The main attraction was that I would see the private gardens that would be impossible for me to visit on my own. I was very impressed with how well organized and enjoyable this tour was. Since then, I have become a perennial participant in these tours. And I also sign up for other TBG garden tours. These tours give me the opportunity to see private gardens, to meet gardenownerswho putlots of effort into their gardens, to buy plants at specialized nurseries, to hear famous horticulturists and to get together with like-minded garden enthusiasts. | believe that the tours are exceptionalbecauseofthe researchtheTBGdoes and because of its reputation and connections.
- Holland s Keukenhof Gardens |
3. What was your favourite garden tour?
It is hard to say; every garden is unique in its own way. I am awed by the plants, flowers and big, majestic trees that I've never seen before. I admire the creative thoughts behind the beautiful landscaping, choice of plants and art objects. But mostly, the visits make me feel happy and peaceful.
4. What essential equipment do you take with you when touring?
A hat is essential for me. An umbrella, if the weather forecast predicts a more than a 50-percent chance of rain. I forgot to take an umbrella once,andthewholemissionwasalmostdestroyed. Luckily, a kind lady lent me a spare umbrella.
5. If you had only one thing that you could bring, what would it be?
A camera.
6. What advice do you have for someone who has never taken a tour?
#Garden tourists should be prepared to see many wonders of nature, and after witnessing what other gardeners are doing to preserve these wonders, they may find themselves more aware of keeping our environment green.
7. Any other thoughts?
#As a Torontonian, I am glad we have a botanical garden like other worldclass cities. The TBG is the place for visitors to relax and to learn. It is also a meeting place for horticultural professionals to share their knowledge and to plan for a future, green environment. [ have great respect for the people who have the vision and who support and participate in the development of the TBG.®
Myint Gillespie finds gardening more fun than her engineering and ITprofessional career, and shegardenspartlytoshowhergratitude to Canada. She is a proud TBG memberand volunteer.
SPOTLIGHT ON Tofino Botanical Gardens
byLorraine Hunter
AT THE OTHER END of the country almost as far west as you can go lies another TBG the Tofino Botanical Gardens on Vancouver Island. Despite their shared acronym, the two TBGs couldn t be more different. Situated in a much more rugged setting than the Toronto Botanical Garden, Tofino is dedicated to the cultivation and display of plants native to the world s coastal temperate rain forests.
The gardens are being developed on a 12-acre (4.8-hectare) site bordered on the south by an 80-acre (32-hectare) forest reserve. Its shoreline looks onto a protected migratory shorebird habitat and across Browning Passage at Meares Island, which has been declared a Tribal Park by the Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation. To the north and west lies the Clayoquot Sound UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
A network of pathways and boardwalks pass kitchen gardens, a frog pond and a children s garden on the way into the forest where clearings have been transformed into a series of pocket gardens.
Some of the clearings celebrate the various cultural groups that have made Clayoquot Sound their home, particularly the Nuu-chah-nulth First Nation, early pioneer homesteaders, Japanese fishing families, and even the hippies who moved here in the 1960s and 1970s. Don t miss the 17foot (5-metre) Nuu-chah-nulth cedar canoe or the Evian, a 37-foot (11-metre) classic double-ender West Coast salmon troller, representing a class of boat rapidly disappearing from the West Coast. There are also plans for a Japanese
An abandoned psychedelic van pays homage to hippies who moved to Tofino in the 1960s and 1970s in search of a more laid-back lifestyle.
garden to commemorate the vibrant community of Japanese Canadian families living here from 1915 to 1942. Fishermen of Japanese ancestry were responsible for developing many innovative techniques still used by local fishermen.
Tofino is in gardening Zone 9. Even though it never gets very cold and rarely freezes, neither does it get very warm. The garden also receives 135 inches (3.4 metres) of rain peryear that s more than 10 feet!
The main botanical collection is focused on the native plants of Clayoquot Sound. The yellow flowering skunk cabbage (Lysichiton americanus), for example, appears in wet spots throughout the gardens. Tropical species include the Japanese fibre banana (Musa basjoo) while several varieties of ginger (Hedychium) die back completely in winter and flourish again in late spring.
Some of the trees are between 800 and 1,000 years old. Western red cedars, for example, were importantto the FirstNations in ClayoquotSound and were used to make fabric and rope, baskets, shelters, salmon traps and whaling canoes.
Nestled between ocean and mountains, Tofino Botanical Gardens offers a unique outdoor experience almost literally at the end of the road.®
Lorraine Hunter is a garden writer and chair of the Trellis Committee.
fiesta gardens
A gardening destination for rare and special plants 8 g 4 P
* PERENNIALS
Extensive collection for sun and shade. Finest new introductions including all new Echinacea and Heuchera. Specialty Iris, Hostas. Gorgeous herbaceous Paeonia, species and hybrids. Tree peony hybrids and species, delavayi, rockii, and ostii.
* ORNAMENTAL GRASSES, SEDGES and BAMBOO
* ALPINES, TROUGH PLANTS andROCK GARDEN GEMS
Gentiana, Rhododendron, Salix, Saxifraga, Shortia, Soldanella and Primula.
* WOODLAND TREASURES
Anemonella, Arisaema (over fifteen species), Cypripedium, Disporum. Epimedium species and cultivars. Erythronium. Helleborus species, foetidus, niger, thibetanus and torquatus. Newest Heronswood cultivars, plus many others. Hepatica. Lilium species including martagons. Paeonia species, emodi, mlokosewitschii. Sanguinaria
Multiplex . Trillium, Asian and North American species. Tricyrtis and Veratrum. Wide range ofother important woodlanders.
e HIMAYLAYANSPECIALTIES
Cardiocrinum giganteum, Euphorbia griffithii Fire Charm , Lilium nepalense and wallichianum. Nomocharis, Meconopsis, Morina and Primula species.
* NORTHAMERICANNATIVEPLANTS, TREESAND SHRUBS
* CLEMATIS
Over seventy varieties for spring, summer and fall flowering, both herbaceous and climbing. Numerous deciduous vines for pergola and fences.
* ROSES
David Austin, Carpet Roses, Climbers, Hybrid Teas and Grandifloras.
* BROADLEAF EVERGREENS and CONIFERS
Topiary, Buxus, Euonymus and Taxus. Daphne, Ilex, Kalmia and Rhododendron. New and special cultivars of Abies, Chamaecyparis, Ginkgo, Larix, Metasequoia, Picea, Pinus, Tsuga and Taxodium. Dwarfconifers for rock gardens.
*TREES andSHRUBS
Best of recent introductions. Amelanchier, Betula, Cercis, Cercidiphyllum, Cornus, Fagus, Laburnum, Liriodendron, Magnolia, Parrotia and Stewartia. Over forty varieties of Acer palmatum, A. p. dissectum and A. shirasawanum. Acer circinatum Sungold , Acer conspicum Phoenix and Silver Vein . Acer rufinerve Winter Gold . Calycanthus x Venus and C. x Hartlage Wine . Chionanthus, Cornus, Corylopsis, Disanthus, Fothergilla, Hamamelis, Hydrangea, Syringa and Viburnum. We can supply all your other gardening needs to create unique gardens
200 CHRISTIE STREET, TORONTO, ONTARIO M6G 3B5
Phone: 416-537-1244 Email: mserraol3@yahoo.com
GARDENIMPORT CELEBRATES 25 YEARS!
by Lorraine Flanigan
WHEN DUGALD CAMERON' S dogGus receives unsolicited mail, alarm bells ring. That s because as ; owner of Gardenimport, one of the most successful bulb, plant and seed mail-order businesses in North America, Dugald places his dog s name on the company s mailing list to safeguard the security ofthe customers he has served for 25 years (it s also a clever method of monitoring how long it takes Canada Post to mail out a new catalogue).
That s just one of the many ways Dugald has maintained high standards in achallengingbusiness environment. When Dugald started Gardenimport 25 years ago, along with his wife Lynn Pashleigh and his father Bob Cameron, the three knew little about the mail-order business. But Dugald had just left a brief career in advertising where he had learned how to lay out a catalogue, his father was an avid gardener and a copywriter and Lynn was so committed to the company that she and Dugald spent their honeymoon at the printers, approving the proofs for the first catalogue.
Both Dugald and his dad gradually made contacts with people in the gardening world. After reading about daylily breeder Brother Charles in the Sunday New York Times gardening column, they contacted his good friend and commercial growerofthe Brother Charles daylilies, Roy Klehm of Song Sparrow Farm nursery. And so it was that in 1983, the first Gardenimport catalogue consisted of daylilies from Klehm s nursery along with Sutton Seeds, begonias (a long-time favourite of Dugald s) and dahlias.
Customers orders were shipped from a 300-square-foot warehouse in the same complex that houses the company s current 3,000-squarefoot facility. We were small, but vital, recalls Dugald. Orders came in by post and we closed for lunch for an hour and a half.
From the beginning, their goal was to seek out unusual plants not offered in other catalogues.
1983 vintage Gardenimport cover
Gardenimport
Firsts thathave becom d ourgardens.
ustin roses, on the recommenda
arn day y owersmorethan once.} .
They culled through gardening magazines and listened to their customers people like Barry Porteous who organized the first Great Gardening Conference at the Toronto Botanical Garden (then The Civic Garden Centre) and who also introduced Dugald to landscape architect David Tomlinson who became such an avid Gardenimport supporter he helped train suppliers on how to grow some of the new plants offered in the catalogue. There followed a host of plantspeople, including Marion Jarvie and Trevor and Brenda Cole, all ofwhom provided advice and suggestions about new plants. Although willing to take risks on new plants, Gardenimport tests and grows all of the plants offered in the catalogue often in Dugald s own garden. It s the ultimate trial he says. Plants there get complete neglect. If I can grow it, anyone can.
This spring s twenty-fifth anniversary edition of the Gardenimport catalogue offers 150 plant introductions. Unlike the mostly black and white, pasted-up, 1983 edition, it s digitally produced in full colour and also appears online at gardenimport.com.
Here s to another 25 years of great plants! @ SESR SR SR SR SR X X X X BX BBk Lorraine Flanigan is editor of Trellis and a freelance garden writer.
fiesta gardens
A gardening destination for rare and special plants
CONTAINER GARDENING
We offer unusual annuals, vines, tender perennials, exotics and plants with interesting and colourful foliage. With our great variety of containers you can create unique summer arrangements for large and small spaces. Our varied palette of plant material can be used in bold or subdued color combinations.
*SHADE
Various Heuchera (new intros), rex and rhizomatous Begonias, Alocasia, Colocasia, Fuchsia species, Impatiens species (rare blue), some Ornamental Grasses, plus others create in shade pools of light with rich textures and pattern.
*SUN
Agapanthus cultivars, Anigozanthos, Brugmansia, Curcuma Red Emperor , Cordyline, Euphorbia, Iochroma coccinea and fuschiodes as well as I. Purple Queen . Libertia, Leonotis, Ornamental Grasses, Phormium, special Salvias and other tender perennials will add a blaze of colour and good form to plantings.
*ARCHITECTURAL
Arundo donax variegata , Bamboo, Canna, Melianthus major, Musa Siam Ruby , Nolina, Phormium and other striking plants for bold effects.
*DROUGHT TOLERANT
Agave, Aeonium , Echeveria, various new Lavandula, plus a wide assortment of Sempervirens, South African succulents and Sedums available for hot and dry spaces.
*WATER PLANTINGS
Colocasia Black Magic (large clumps), Cyperus, Equisetum, Juncus, Pontaderia and Zantedeschia White Giant for cool moments.
*VINES
Clematis, herbaceous and long blooming varieties that are excellent for containers. Cobaea scandens Key Lime Pie , Japanese Ipomoea, Rhodochiton, Solandra, Vigna caracalla (Snail Vine) for screens and obelisks.
*SOUTHAFRICANSUMMER FLOWERING BULBS
Great additions for added colour and interest. Includes, Albuca shawii, Albuca spiralis, Eucomis species and cultivars, Galtonia viridiflora Gloriosa carsonii and G. rothschildiana, Gladiolus carneus, G. papilionacea, G. tristis The Bride . Oxalis species and cultivars, Ornithogalum caudatum and Scadoxus.
We also offer an immense selection of hanging baskets, popular bedding plants and other annual and tender perennials.
*VEGETABLES andHERBS
Heirloom varieties. Many vegetables and herbs are organically grown.
*ORGANIC COMPOST
High quality organic compost is available as well as organic fertilizers to supplement your container and perennial plantings
200 CHRISTIE STREET, TORONTO, ONTARIO M6G 3B5
Phone: 416- 537- 1244
Email: mserraol3@yahoo.com
by Anna L
Taraxacum officinale agg. dandelion
In this second in a series, Anna Leggattsets out the pros and cons ofone ofour most common weeds .
WE ALL RECOGNIZE dandelions. The bright yellow flowers grow in large clusters on the top of a hollow leafless stem, surrounded by a ring of bracts. The long, green, smooth leaves grow in a rosette from a deep taproot. The lobed sides of the leaf form jagged teeth, giving it the name dent-de-lion from the French for lion s tooth .
What we may think of as a petal is actually the flower of the dandelion, which is tiny and made up offive petals almost completelyunited to form an asymmetric tube. These tubular ray flowers comprise the entire flower head, with ovaries that lie below each flower and hairs around the base of the corolla. These hairs form the parachute when the dandelion clock breaks up in the wind.
Although many insects visit the flower for pollen and nectar, their presence is superfluous because the flowers are apomictic: they form seeds without pollination and fertilization.
Dandelions are native to Europe and Asia. There are many species and forms, but most are yellow, though a white form (7. albidum) exists, which is native to Japan.
Is a dandelion a weed? Many of us are horrified to find it in our gardens and worry when there is a sheet of yellow on the lawn. But dandelions have many good points. The long taproots break up the soil which improves drainage and absorb minerals used to produce the leaves which, when they die, decompose and release the incorporated minerals to shallow-rooted plants.
Dandelion roots have been dried and used as a (not very pleasant) coffee substitute and for dyeing fabric. Dandelion florets are also used to make a pleasant wine.
If you read about dandelions in old herbals, they were believed to build up the blood, cure anaemia and help relieve liver complaints and diabetes. Dandelion leaves contain the minerals
~dry and cutupthe dandelion leaves. 'fCntthe bacon in small pieces and fry till crisp; ~remove from heat and addvinegar, sugar and salt and pepper. Pourover leaveswhen still hot. Garlic may be added to the bacon and hardboiled egg tothe greens.
iron and calcium, as well as vitamins A and C, and the plant is also an antioxidant.
There are several useful digging tools for removal of dandelion roots. This is a slow but sure method that [ use: treat your lawn with corn gluten to prevent the germination of seedlings; however, be aware that this will Kill other desirable seedlings. Horticultural vinegar is also effective in killing dandelion crowns, and it might even destroy all of the root. Be careful, though, as the vinegar will also kill the surrounding grass and acidify the soil.
So you decide: will you allow your dandelions to grow? @ \ \ \I\l\l\l\l\
Anna Leggatt is a Master Gardener and tireless TBG volunteer.
GET READY FOR SPRING WITHTHIS CHECKLIST FROMTHETORONTO MASTER GARDENERS
CHOOSE THE SITE and assess the available space, light, soil, water and wind conditions. Next, select a hardy tree best suited to that site. Consider these factors to help narrow your choice.
e Ask yourself what function is the tree to perform in your landscape? For example, do you want the tree to provide cool shade on a hot day, to meet a particular aesthetic purpose, to function as a specimen tree or to become a windscreen?
¢ Second, how tall and wide will the tree become and what is its growing habit? Will it be appropriate for the particular location you have in mind (for example, in front of a window, beside a driveway or walkway or next to the front door)? Is it suitable for the intended purpose (for example, will it grow fast enough to provide the privacy and windbreak you desire)?
e Third, decide ifyou prefer a deciduous or coniferous tree. Deciduous trees may have flowers, seed pods or fruit that drop on the ground and attract hornets and other insects. Some have notoriously greedy roots, so much so that almost nothing will grow underneath them. They generally require more maintenance. Some need more pruning than others, and most will need their fallen leaves raked up each autumn. A deciduous tree provides shade in the summer, yet will allow light through your window during the winter. Coniferous trees, however, provide yearround interest and protection for birds and small animals. Usually, they require little pruning or maintenance, but like some deciduous trees, you may need to protect them against harsh winter conditions.
e Finally, consider aesthetics and what appeals to you. Deciduous trees can be chosen for many reasons. Each species offers a particular structure or form and a specific leaf form, texture and
colour as well as unique bark. Some have flowers that offer not only beauty and fragrance but may attract birds as well. Some trees offer different aesthetic elements each season, with colourful blossoms in the spring, variegated foliage in the summer, brilliant autumn colour and interesting bark in the winter. Some bring a unique architectural form or structure to your landscape. Unlike deciduous trees, conifers offer year-round interest through variations in height, width, form, colour and texture, as well as interesting seeds.®
Excerpted from the Toronto Master Gardener Factsheet, How to Plant a Tree. For more advice from the Master Gardeners, Vvisit factsheets. torontomastergardeners.ca.
LECSEE T
by Cathie Cox
Replacing lawn with native groundcovers
AN INCREASINGLY POPULAR trend is to replace the traditional lawn with sustainable alternatives: plants that are drought tolerant, need less fertilizing and fewer fungicides and pesticides and whose maintenance does not involve noisy, energy-devouring machines.
All groundcovers needn t be boringly low: their role is to prevent weeds and be low maintenance. For a more dynamic and satisfying garden, plant a variety of natives with differing flowering times, contrasting foliage and growing habits. Use native and indigenous plants that are adapted to our specific soil and climate conditions, which make them robust and less susceptible to pests and disease. For areas ofheavy foot traffic, try using awood or bark mulch or plant barren strawberry (Waldsteiniafragarioides).
e NATIVES FOR PART SHADE
Asarum canadense (wild ginger): semi-evergreen, useful for edging and contrast. Spread: 30 cm (12 in).
Chrysogonum virginianum (golden star): noninvasive; long-lived yellow flowers in summer; prefers morning sun and humus-rich, well-drained soils but tolerates less than perfect conditions. Tough and cheerful. Spread: 15 to 30 cm (6 to 12 in).
Cornus canadensis (bunchberry): slow the first year; good for acidic, humus-rich soils; tolerates sun when soil is moist; prefers minimal root competition. Spread: 60 cm (24 in).
Gillenia trifoliata (Bowman s root): tolerates sun and part shade; masses of white flowers; vigorous bushy habit; bronzy red foliage in fall; prefers humus-rich soils. Exceptional groundcover. Spread: 75 cm (30 in).
Phlox divaricata (wood phlox): fragrant, lavender blue flowers in early summer; prefers woodsy, humus-rich, moist, well-drained soil. Spread: 30 to 40 cm (12 to 16 in).
Podophyllum peltatum (mayapple): vigorous but
not invasive, gradually disappears during late summer; insignificant but interesting flowers; lush, glossy foliage. Spread: 30 to 45 cm (12 to 18 in).
Polygonatum biflorum (Solomon s seal): spreads steadily; tolerant of poor dry soils. Great plant for contrast especially massed with mayapple or ferns. Spread: 60 cm (24 in).
Polystichum acrostichoides (Christmas fern): non-invasive, semi-evergreen; prefers humusy, moist soils but somewhat tolerant of less than perfect conditions. Spread: 45 cm (18 in).
Smilacina racemosa (false Solomon s seal): similar to Solomon s seal with fluffy white flowers followed by showy berries. Spread: 60 cm (24 in).
Tiarella cordifolia (Allegheny foamflower): ground-level foliage with spires of white flowers in late spring and early summer; prefers moist humusy soil. Spread: 30 cm (12 in).
Waldsteinia fragarioides (barren strawberry): yellow flowers in early summer; tolerates poor soils and drought; vigorous, tough and can tolerate foot traffic. Spread: 30 to 45 cm (12 to 18 in).
¢ NATIVES FOR SUN
Arctostaphylos uva ursi (bearberry): small, white, urn-shaped flowers; red berries; evergreen. One of the best for sunny slopes. Spread: 10 cm (4 in).
Carex flacca (blue green sedge): blue-green, tufted evergreen, grass-like, low-growing foliage. Spread: 30 cm (12 in).
Carex pensylvanica (Pennsylvania sedge): lowgrowing, fine-leafed and grass-like; drought and shade tolerant. Spread: 30 cm (12 in).
Geum triflorum (prairie smoke): blooms in late spring to early summer; bearded, fluffy seed heads; good for slopes and rocky areas. Spread: 25 c¢m (10 in).
Phlox subulata, P. douglasii and cultivars: white, red, pink or blue flowers in late spring; excellent for slopes; shear back lightly after flowering to keep foliage compact and tidy. Spread: 45 cm (18 in). @
Green Roof Information Destination
AT THE TORONTO BOTANICAL GARDEN S
Weston Family Library, we're developing a repository of green roof information. The Green Roof Information Destination (G.R.I.D.) will be a comprehensive centre of information for the student, homeowner, business owner, researcher and policy-maker. Our resources include:
® Books
e Periodicals and periodical articles, including Living Architecture Monitor (formerly Green Roof Infrastructure Monitor)
e Full-text articles and papers listed at greenroofs. org/grtok, the Green Roofs for Healthy Cities Tree of
Book REVIEW [
RHSNew Gardening: How to Garden in a Changing Climate
By Matthew Wilson
London: Mitchell Beazley for the Royal Horticultural Society, 2007; 224 pages, £18.99/$29.95.
PRODUCED UNDER THE AUSPICES of the Royal Horticultural Society, this book by Matthew Wilson gives us a new and practical philosophy of gardening that incorporates improved techniques, modern science and innovative design while maintaining environmentally sound principles.
The Royal Horticultural Society wants to help gardeners continue to enjoy the pleasures and satisfaction of gardening while coping with climate change and its attendant issues. New Gardening supports this initiative.The author has established a culture of gardening with the environment that reduces or completely phases out the use of artificial irrigation and chemical and inorganic fertilizers. Perhaps most importantly, the book describes how to use water responsibly. For anyone with an interest in gardening and the environment, this book is an indispensable tool.
For more information, see our page on the TBG Web site: torontobotanicalgarden.ca/library/ grid.htm
For up-to-date library news, visit our library blog at torontobotanical gardenlibrary. blogspot.com
NORTH AMERICAN
NATIVE PLANT SOCIETY
Annual Wildflower Sale and Expo
Saturday May 10, 2008 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Markham Civic Centre, Atrium 101 Town Centre Boulevard (Hwy 7 at Warden Ave.) Markham, ON L3R 9W/3
Native Wildflowers, Ferns, Trees, Shrubs, Vines, Grasses, Related Books, Free Seminars, Lots of Fun!
www.nanps.org (416) 631-4438
by Graham Curry ® PROGRAM CO-ORDINATOR
Doors Open Toronto
SATURDAY & SUNDAY, MAY 24 & 25, 10 A.M.TO 4 P.M.
SACRED SPACES, SACRED CIRCLES is the theme of this year s Doors Open event, and it links very well with our Indian-themed Kitchen Garden where we ll be growing a variety of vegetables and sacred plants used in traditional Indian cuisine and ceremonies.
During Doors Open, wander through the Kitchen Garden to see the display of Indian vegetables and herbs, including tulsi, henna and neem; volunteers will be on hand to tell you about their traditional uses. For example, tulsi is an herb, also called the Indian basil plant, that s often grown in the courtyards of Hindu families. Tulsi or holy basil is an important symbol in the Hindu religious tradition and is worshipped in the morning and evening. Holy basil is also used in Ayurveda therapy to treat many common ailments. (To learn more, register for Intro to Ayurveda: Body and Mind Healing, Sunday, June 1 online at torontobotanicalgarden.ca/ programs/health.htm)
There ll also be lots of demonstrations during Doors Open including how to make the garlands used in Indian weddings and festivals. Or, have your hands painted with a henna floral design. These are an integral part of bridal adornment in Hindu, Muslim and Sephardic traditions. When mixed with various combinations of natural ingredients to form a thick paste, henna leaves a deep, reddish-brown stain when applied to the skin that will last from one to three weeks. Activities for children include drop-in programs such as kite making and sand painting. Throughout the weekend, a large Rangoli floor art design will be on display along with an audiovisual presentation showing how these are made. A Rangoli design is placed near the entrance of a house to welcome guests. Elaborate designs and patterns are made to celebrate festivals. Traditionally, these works are created with coloured sand and rice powder, but they can
o Self-guided tours of theTBG s green building, straw-bale garden shed and outdoor contemporary themed gardens. Expertgardeners and guides will be available to answer your questions and point out the unique features.
e Explore the James Boyd Children s Centre where hands-on activities include kite making and Rangoli sand painting.
® Experience the spirit of India in the Kitchen Garden. Between 1 and 3 p.m. learn about the sacred plants and garden vegetables of India.
also be made of flowers or coloured dried beans. There will also be a mandap on display. These structures, which mimic the pillared outdoor hall typical of Indian architecture, are used in Indian weddings or ceremonies.
You mightwant to beginyourweekend on Friday evening with our Yoga under the Stars workshop where you can relax and rejuvenate your mind and body (pre-registration is required).®
Edwards Lectures |
FOR THIS YEAR S LECTURE SERIES, we ve explored the world to offer you the best experts, advice and inspiration.
Lectures are free for TBG members. The fee for non-members is $15 (door sales only). Limited seating; doors open at 6:30 p.m.
[T R S S e T R R R e R S S
SPEAKER: John Gaydos
Toric: What is a Proven Winner, and Why?
WHEN: Tuesday, May 6, 7:30 p.m.
WHERE: Floral Hall
PROVEN WINNERS is known for introducing the best, most unique, high-performing plants. Most of us have these plants in our gardens, and it s impossible to go to a nursery without seeing them in the thousands. Learn about the fascinating history of the company and how plants are chosen and, best of all, get a preview of the new introductions available this spring.
With more than 20 years of experience in the industry, John Gaydos joined Proven Winners in 1998. He is responsible for product development and promotion and acts as the company s spokesperson at trade shows, conferences and industry events. John is the main contact for cultural information, new product development and variety testing. He also servesas the liaisonforinformation exchange between PW members and the industry.
BRI e N e N S i B T R S sl e
SPEAKER: Allan Armitage
Topic: Native Plants for North American Gardens
WHEN: Wednesday, May 21, 7:30 p.m.
'WHERE: Floral Hall
THIS GURU OF North American native plants will charm and enthrall you as he discusses native perennials, biennials and annuals. He will dispel myths about native plants and provide information on hundreds of useful species. His knowledge, experience and enthusiasm will seduce you into integrating notjust one but several
native plants into your garden. Just remember, you ve been warned!
Allan M. Armitage is a writer, speaker and researcher and the author of 11 books the most recent being Armitage s Native Plantsfor North American Gardens (2006). A professor of horticulture at the University of Georgia, Athens, he teaches, manages the university s horticultural gardens and conducts research on new garden plants. Allan is the recipient of many awards, including a Medal of Honour from the Garden Club of America and the National Educator Award from the American Horticultural Society.
Free garden tour with TBG gardeners!
Come before the lecture for a free tour highlighting native plants in the TBG Gardens led by our knowledgeable gardening staff. The half-hour tour starts at 6:45 p.m.®
MAY
3,4
Southern Ontario Orchid Society
May 3: Judging, Studios 1 & 2; 9 a.m to 5 p.m.
May 4: SOOS meeting, Floral Hall, noon $00s.ca
Society of Ontario Nut Growers
Tree & plant auction
Garden Hall, 1 to 4 p.m. www.songonline.ca
Greater Toronto Rose & Garden Horticultural Society
Ralph Bullough: Growing roses in the north Studios 1 & 2, 2 p.m.; GTRoses@aol.com
6
Edwards Lecture
John Gaydos: What is a Proven Winner?
Floral Hall, 7:30 p.m.
TBG members free; public $15 416-397-1340
7
Toronto Bonsai Society
Workshop, Studio 1, 7 p.m. torontobonsai.org
10
Canadian Chrysanthemum & Dahlia Society
Plant sale, Studio 1, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. mumsanddahlias.com
Glamour in the Garden
A gala in support of the TBG; 416-397-1341
11
Ontario Rock Garden Society
Des Kennedy: Gardens of China
Floral Hall, 1: 30 p.m.
Plant sale, noon onrockgarden.com
Mother s Day Floral Workshop & Champagne Reception
Speaker: Tamara Robins
1 to 4 p.m. TBG members $45; public $55
To register: 416-397-1341
12
Toronto Bonsai Society
Preparing trees for public display
Garden Hall, 7 p.m.; torontobonsai.org
13
North Toronto Horticultural Society
Plant sale & garage sale
Rosemary Dobson: Simple but fun floral design
Studios 1-3, 7 p.m.; 416-488-3368
14
Toronto Bonsai Society
Workshop, Studio 1, 7 p.m. torontobonsai.org
14, 15
Through the Garden Gate: Riverdale
See page 12 for details; 416-397-1341
17
Sogetsu Ikebana
Meeting, Studio 1, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. highpark35@rogers.com
13-17
TBG Collectible Plant Sale
May 13, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; members only May 14-16, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. May 17, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. 416-397-1340
18, 19
Toronto Bonsai Society
Spring show & sale
Floral Hall, noon to 5 p.m. torontobonsai.org
20
Toronto Cactus & Succulent Club
Ben Nogueira: Naturally occurring bonsai Studio 1, 7 p.m.
torontocactus.tripod.com
21
Edwards Lecture
Allan Armitage: Native plants
Floral Hall, 7:30 p.m.
TBG members free; public $15 416-397-1340
24, 25
Doors Open Toronto
10 a.m. to 4 p.m. 416-397-1340
JUNE
1
Toronto Region Iris Society
Show, Studio 1: 1 to 3 p.m. torontoirissociety.com
57
Southern Ontario Orchid Society
June 1: SOOS meeting, Floral Hall, noon June 7: Judging, Studios 1 & 2, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. $00s.ca
8
Ontario Water Garden Society
Plant sale & demonstration Garden Hall, noon onwatergarden.com
Greater Toronto Rose & Garden
Horticultural Society
Barbara Katheim: Alternative pest control Studios 1 & 2, 2 p.m. GTRoses@aol.com
9
Toronto Bonsai Society Meeting, Garden Hall, 7 p.m. torontobonsai.org
10
North Toronto Horticultural Society
Bob Leask: Hostas from the ground up Studios 1-3, 7 p.m.; 416-488-3368
15
Sogetsu Ikebana Meeting, Studio 1, 10 a.m. highpark35@rogers.com
17
Toronto Cactus & Succulent Club
Ben Nogueira: Crested Cacti
Studio 1, 7 p.m.; torontocactus.tripod.com
22
Greater Toronto Rose & Garden Horticultural Society
Rose, horticulture & design show Claire Laberge, Montreal Botanical Garden Studios 1 & 2, 1 p.m. Show open to the public in the afternoon GTRoses@aol.com
JULY
>
Toronto Judging Centre of the American Orchid Society
Judging, Studios 1 & 2, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. S00S.Ca
27
Sogetsu Ikebana Meeting, Studio 1, 10 a.m. highpark35@rogers.com
AUGUST
3
Southern Ontario Orchid Society Meeting, Floral Hall, noon; soos.ca
10
Canadian Iris Society
Auction & sale
Studio 1, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wwww.cdn-iris.ca
| SCHEDULES CAN CHANGE AFTER PRESS TIME BE SURE TO CHECK AHEAD
CLASSIFIED ADS
Maureen and Brian Bixley s Lilactree Farm Garden will be Open on five Sundays in 2008: May 4 and 25; June 22, July 13; September 14. 10am to 4pm. Members and friends welcome. Good places to lunch nearby. Some unusual plants for sale. Prior to each Open Day, we put out an email Garden Notes . To receive these, or for other information, directions, tel: 519-925-5577, or email: lilactree@sympatico.ca
Leaside Garden Society annual tour of several enchanting local gardens, June 21, 2008, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., rain or shine. For ticket information, contact 416-425-0034.
2008 Heart of Northumberland Garden Tour, Sunday, June 22 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nine country gardens north of Cobourg. Tickets are $20 and all proceeds go to Northumberland Big Sisters Big Brothers. Call 1-888-278-2484 www.bigbrothersbigsisters. ca/northumberland.
Garden Tour - September 2-15, 2008 Spectacular Gardens, personally selected and escorted by Marjorie (Mason) in the Scottish Borders, Yorkshire Dales, Lake District and Snowdonia in N. Wales. Historical cities of Edinburgh, York, Chester plus Harrogate Flower Show, also notable Botanical Gardens $4289.00 per person double occupancy including air from Toronto. We have 8 spaces available for this popular tour. New Zealand North and South Island Gardens 28 October - 13 November 2008 Marjorie personally escorting our Mastergardeners and gardening enthusiasts. Please visit our website for detailed Itinerary at www.gardenersworldtours.com or contact Lorna 905432-8411 or e-mail lorna@cwtajax.com.
