Let's start a growing friendship soon at a Sheridan Garden Centre.
You'll find it at Sheridan
Ualue With comparable prices on the most extensive selection of high quality nursery stock in Canada.
b ltalltY With over 1,200 types of hardy plants and trees, locally raised, fresh from the soil and Guaranteed to Grow'.
VarletY With Canada s most comprehensive listing of nursery stock and garden accessories. . . the 74 Sheridan Garden Catalogue. Now available at any of the four Sheridan Garden Centres in Metro, Mississauga, Unionville, or Etobicoke, Sheridan can supply all of your gardening needs.
Aiiavie right now at garden supply outlets throughout Canada are amaryllis bulbs that look similar to the one shown here ready for planting. Some, specifically varieties from South Africa, come complete with a planting kit, soil and instructions. Others, a little later, will be found to be larger bulbs these from Holland. and usually sold singly without planting kits.
New this year is a series, also from Holland. though smaller than the traditional Dutch bulbs, known as Tropical amaryllis. These are guaranteed to produce three large trumpet-shaped flowers on each of two flowering stems that are not as tall as on many of the traditional varieties.
If you purchase bulbs without the planting kit (soil, pot etc.), choose either plastic or clay flower pots of a diameter one inch greater than that of the bulbs. For the potting mixture, use one-third each of peat moss, clean sharp sand and perlite. When planting the bulbs in the pots, be sure to set only the bottom half of each bulb in the pot so the top
Amaryllis bulbs available now may come complete with planting kit as shown, or loose, in which case the planting directions _given here should be followed. Their majestic flowers last at least four weeks. Agriculture Canada photo.
For exotic Beauty from Christmas onwards buy and plant Amaryllis Bulbs Now
half and neck are above the soil line. Until the flower stalk(s) are up two or three inches, keep the bulb in a warm, not-too-well-lighted room. Once the stalks are up, and buds showing. move the pots to a cooler (if possible) room where the light is brighter, but avoid direct sunlight. Water every third day or so, when the soil mix has become dry.
If you wish the bulbs to flower for a specific time period, plan to hold them in a dark cool room until six weeks prior to their being needed.
Amaryllis planted now will make an ideal Christmas present that will last for three to four weeks after Christmas is forgotten.
Later in the season, Trellis will detail the method of growing the bulbs after the flowers are finished, in order that they will bloom again, year after year.
Indoor Light Gardening Specialists
e Terrarium lamps e Hobby greenhouses
e Wall & table e Humex' grhse. models accessories
e Build-up mini- e Stewart gardengardens ware
Exotic, Miniature & Terrarium Plants at The Plant Room, Hornby, 878-4984
EQUIPMENT CONSULTANTS AND SALES.
@n« Dunwin Dr., Mississauga, Ont. LSL 1A3 Phone 828-5925
PEFFERLAW PEAT COMPOSTED MANURE/ PEAT MIX
The ideal soil mix correctly balanced to fill the needs of all growing plants indoors or out.
G. T. STRAIN & SON Cannington, Ont. Phone (Toronto) 364-6068
And, May I now have the ninth Last Word"?
Regular Features
Gardening Events Calendar, 12; Milne House Garden Club, 17 School of Floral Decoration, 17; Shop 20; and Library and Bookshop, 21.
Other ltems of Interest This Month
For exotic Beauty from Christmas onwards buy and plant Amaryllis Bulbs Now, 3.
The Front Cover
One ofthe intriguing new indoor plants, Episcia Pink Brocade grown for its unusua foliaie colouration, prefers to hang from a suspended pot. Photo by Art C. Drysdale.
Civic Garden Centre Board of Directors
Mrs. K. G. (Audrey) Allman; R. H. (Roy) Bainard; Mrs. J. H. (Betty) Billes; J. (Jack) Blair; J. E. (John) Bradshaw; Mrs. D. P. (Elizabeth) Bl \?'cc; G. P. (Geoff) Clarkson; E. A. (Ed) Endersby; R. A. (Reg) Mackenzie; G. A. (Gib) Milne; E. R. (Ernie) Pope; Mrs. E. (Flavia) Redelmeier (Chairman); Mrs. F. W. (Genevieve) Robertson; W. (Wilf) Sanders; L. C. (La Sherk; Mrs. R. (Helen) Skinner; T. W. (Tom) Thompson; Dr.r}:I. (Dave) Yerex.
Staff for Civic Garden Centre and Trellis
George Sinclair, Executive Director; A. C. (Art) Drysdale, Associate Director and Editor; Mrs. J. W (Awdrey) Clarke, Executive Secretary.
General Information
N Trellis is published monthly (except July and August) by the Civic Garden Centre, 777 Lawrence Avenue East, Don Mills, Ontario, M3C 1P2. The Centre is located in Edwards Gardens, at Leslie Street and Lawrence Avenue East, the geographical centre of Metropolitan Toronto. It is a non-profit gardening and floral arts information organization with open membership. Subscriptions to Trellis are only available through Centre membership ($5 for 12 months). O inions expressed within do not necessarily reflect those of the Centre. This is Volume 1, Number 9.
THE CIVIC GARDEN CENTRE Telephone 445-1552
What it is .
» A non-profit gardening and floral arts centre for the dissemination of information to amateurgardeners and flower-arrangers
« An open membership body with over 3.000 keen gardener-members (from rank amateurs to advanced professionals) who pay only $5 for 12 months
« Home of six gardening clubs or groups with specific gardening interests
» Meeting place for specialized plant societies from Bonsai to Roses
o Home of some of the best flower arrangers in North America (quoted from U.S.A. author and editor, Helen Van PeltWilson)
What it does
« Operates Canada s most complete public horticultural library
« Responds to over 3,000 gardening questions annually
« Organizes, in both spring and autumn, garden talks and demonstrations on a wide variety of subjects and atdifferent levels
» Teaches non-commercial flower arranging at various levels to over 300 persons annually and encourages their competition
« Carries on an extensive flower-drying program to extend garden beauty through into the winter months economically
o Operates a Speakers Panel Bureau which brings panels of experts on various subjects to groups desirous ofan informative program
o Publishes information booklets on various subjects; e.g. Preserving Beautiful Flowers
« Stages two flower shows each year and hosts numerous others
What members receive ($5 annual fee)
o Ten issues peryear of Trellis
« Free borrowing privileges from the 3,000-volume library
« Ten per cent discount off all purchases of books and gardening and floral arts supplies bought from the Centre
« Opportunity to join one or more specialized member groups or clubs
« Discounts off all courses offered at the Centre
« Free admission to Members' Nights held at leasttwice per year
T17 Lawrence Ave. East (in Edwards Gardens), Don Mills, Ontario M3C 1P2
Trellis / 5
First of all, we should all learn how 0 pema yin the dry state, is one of the ~sweetest in the world. Rosemary and basil are rather more pungent !han per~fumed.
pronounce H-E-R-B-S! I wastaughtto say erbs , on the theory that itwasthe ~elegant way and veddy Enghsh - Word, however, has _]ust come that hhherbs is right! Oibs just won t do as Brooklynese has become a dead language with the advent of television! Yarbs may or may not be an upcountry pronunciation dating from an earliercentury. So, stick to hhherbs in the future.
Specialists in herbs end up with just about every plant in Erotica (sic). If it isn't good for eheumatiz, it will flavour a cookie, and ifit won't flavour acookie it smells good. So, herbs are any plants you want to call herbs .
Herbal pesticidesawait mass production
You do notjust plant them! It is considered far more important to arrange the herb garden in a cabalistic or astrological design. This makes them more effective (for instance, in the cure of chilblains). Some of the plans are quite ancient and they are always just beautiful in the eyes of a herbalist while looking just seedy to the likes of you and me.
With a couple of amusing exceptions artificial-light gardeners show their materialism and indifference to refinement by ignoring most herbs except those which flavour food, in other words culinary herbs. And. then we have also to eliminate those which are too big. Angelica, for example, is a monster of a plant and would ram its head against the shelf about two minutes after planting in a light garden. The smelly ones, especially the Geraniums, have the disadvantage that the odour only becomesevident when you rub the leaves, and their inedibility is unquestioned. Some of the kitchen herbs have 1 woaderfmodour without gomg to the
A good many of the culinary herbs are also medicinal, though notthe ones which are so acrid that they suggest curative properties to those who believe that there is magic in matching a bad flavour with a bad case ofsomething or other. In fact, one advantage of herbal cooking is that, if the herbalists are right, we should be getting some digestive aid from them. The rosemary on your lamb, however, is only a perfume although also a stimulant . Alone ittastes something like gasoline. 1 have a big card file of herbal information and some of the medicinal uses are rather startling. After all, aspirin is synthetic Salix (willow).
Much has been made of herbal pesticides. And, it seems to be true that tansy will keep ants from your door and bats from the belfry. A sprig ofsome herb in your hat is said to drive away annoying insects. Surprising that no one has gone into business growing the stuff.
Herbalists are rotten cooks!
But, in the end, at least under lights, we will stick pretty much with the flavouring herbs for cooking. They are popular, do thejob and are a lot better than monosodium glutamate, thejoy of restaurant French cuisine!
With a uniformity which is as expected as it is remarkable, the herbalists are rotten cooks. The garbage they can concoct passeth understanding and they sometimes have so much prestige that they can get other people to swallow their messes. The right use of herbs is taught by talented cooks and can be found in the books they write.
%Mhwdmc Indoor LightGardening Book.
blesorplastic crate and some 2- to 4i pots. If the amount of herbs is
spectrum tubesor a combination¢ warm white and daylight, a tray, pebinch| inadequate for your needs, double the - numberoffixtures etc. or get one which _is 48 inches long.
Give the herbs a 16-hour day rather close to the lights say four inches.
For soil mixture, use equal partspeat moss, perlite and vermiculite, with a teaspoon oflime to a two-inch pot. Otherwise try Baccto Mixwith one part perlite to four parts Baccto and the same amount of lime. Garden loam can be used in the formula: 3 parts loam, | part _ peat moss and 2 parts sand but sterilize the loam and sand (180° F for 30 minutes). Drainage must be perfect! Temperature range is 40° F to 80° F.
Fertilize not more than once a week with 20-20-20 solution. Don t overfertilize.
As you are dealing with edible plants you will have to fight attacks by aphids, white fly and mites with water. Using lukewarm water wash the plants daily for a couple ofweeks. A household yellow soap solution is even more effective than plain water. As the plants are not large this is not as difficult as it sounds.
Water all herbs from the top in the morning every day. Night watering develops fungus. Spray as often as possible on both sides of leaves. A few herbs, such as rosemary. thyme and the mints, like wet feet.
From the experience of my wife and me, the following are worth growing under lights.
French basil is the best type. It is small leaved. a compact grower and comes again forever when cut. Keep it moist and it is virtually foolproof.
Ofthe mints, spehrmmx peppermmt and variations requirejust ordinary soil and lots of watering. They have to be cutconstantly toprevent trailing. Only moderate light is needed, so they may be grown at the outside edge ofthe tray underyour light fixture. while the mar- joram should be in the centre the *brightest area under any fixture. Mints are easy to root from cuttings.
Parsley grows well from seed under lights. It provides large quantities of vitamins A and C. Transplant it when there are four true leaves, using ordinary soil with humus. Keep it cool, watering well, but not allowing the soil to get soggy. Harvest or cut only the outside leaves.
The tall growing rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) is the best to grow. Keep it constantly wet it grows magnificently under lights, and makes an 5 1deal bonsai subject.
- Of the sages, Salvia officinalis is the ' fafest ander lights. A lover of limed soils, it also does best in full light. Watch out for spider mites, and ifstarting from seed, use sphagnum moss, as seedlings tend to damp off. Pineapple sage is quite different not useful. but the leaves really smell like pineapple, and this is quite unusual.
Wintersavoryisthebestofthesavorys. Keep it close tothelights. Itis mostsatisfactory under these conditions.
Curly chervil (Anthriscus cerefolium) is considered a superior parsley but tastes mildly of licorice. Use more peat orloam in thesoil mixand keep moder-~ately damp. Trim plants to prevencss flowering and seeding.
Do not start cllives from seed nf_l
Tarragon will not come true from seed, soyoushould obtain plantsin pots in the spring and carry them through the following winter. It requires excellent drainage and easily mildews ifventilation is pooror watering is excessive. It does propagate easily from cuttings.
- Finally, of thethymes French thyme (Thymus vulgaris) is the best. Itprefers g,ravelly,hmeysoil,andis best fertilized vith |
Good for Everything You Grow
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African Violet Soil Potting and Planter Soil best for tender-rooted for potting all young plants plants
And, many other fine products
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Periodically a new ornamental plant introduction, or a major break-through in plant breeding of an outstanding flowering plant causes a great deal of excitement in the areas of commercial flower producers, home gardeners and the general buying public.
The hydridizing and development of the now fairly well known Rieger begonias is one ofthe major revolutions in the modern floral industry. For the past several years these new begonias have disrupted the stable European flower markets they are as popular over there as the potted Chrysanthemum is over here in North America!
Though also suitable for outdoor growth, at this time ofyear readers will be most interested to know that Rieger begonias are one type of flowering houseplant that may be kept in successive bloom indoors without abundant humidity (lacking in all homes even those with humidifiers) and without bright light (lacking in all homes save those with artificial light for plant growth). And, the blooming period extends up to nine months, and may be considered almost continuous ifspecific simple cultural practices are observed.
Rieger begonias are usually obtained from plantsellers orchain stores in 5- or 6-inch pots and about to flower, or in full flower. Sometimes smaller plants, in two-inch pots are sold. Keep the plants at 68-70°F. in a south- or west-facing window for the winter months, but move to an east or north exposure for the summer months. It is important' to water the plants with room-temperature water, and to keep the soil warm. That is, a cold window sill may not be the ideal location.
If your plant appears pot-bound when you get it, shift it to the next size either clay or plastic. But, remember to plant the original soil ball one quar-
Rieger Begonias new Plant Craze from Europe is Hitting Canada Now
Jim Mikkelsen*
terofan inch above the soil level in the new pot. The growing mixture should be open and well-drained. A peat-lite mix is fine or you may mix your own combination of equal parts of leaf mould, peat moss and perlite or vermiculite. As the plants grow, remove any diseased leaves, and old flower stems as the flowers turn brown. Use either long lasting fertilizer, or fertilize once each week with a 20-20-20 liquid at the rate ofone ounce per three gallons of water. After three to four months, you may note that your Rieger begonias seem to be reaching the end of their flowering cycle. When this occurs, there should be signs of new growths from the bottoms of the plants, and in the lower leaf axils. When this occurs, ease off the watering, leaving the plants much drier than normal for a week or ten days, and then give the plants a haircut . Prune all growths back to three or four inches, fertilize again, and wait for your begonias to begin a new flowering cycle. If the pruning back is done in spring, you should also consider re-potting into a larger pot. Remember each time re-potting is done, to keep the old soil ball just above the new soil level.
New plants may even be rooted in water
There are two basic types of Rieger begonias. The most important types being the Schwabenland Red and those directly mutating from the original of this variety. Young plants can be propagated by leafcuttings that eventually initiate vegerative adventitious shoots at the base of the leaf stem. When high temperatures of 70-74°F. are coupled with artificial light for 14 hours per day young plants will develop sufficient ve(Continuation on page 10)
*Jim Mikkelsen is general operations managerfor the firm of MikkelsensInc. inAshtabula,Ohio,whichhasexclusivelicensing rights in North America for the commercial production of all Reiger Begonias.
Rieger Begonias
(Continuationfrom page 9)
getative growth any time of the year to produce a flowering plant. Hence year around flowering as in chrysanthemums. The flowers are ofgood size usually having four brightly coloured petals.
The second type are the Aphrodite varieties. Unfortunately, leaf cuttings from this group are too erratic they are nearly always produced by top or stem cuttings. Flowers are double azalea type with many petals.
The propagating media should be 50 percent peat moss, 25 percent perlite and 25 percent vermiculite. It is recommended that the media be blended and then pasteurized at 180°F. for 30 minutes. Both types of Rieger begonias will respond in this media and prefer an acidity (pH) of5.5. Beyond that, the two varieties are treated entirely differently because of the dissimilar condition of the stock material and the type of cutting being used.
Top cuttings of Aphrodite varieties should root in three weeks and be ready to shift into pots in four or five weeks if the rooting media is maintained at 70°F. High relative humidity should be utilized the first two weeks. Propagating in a glass ofwater on the sill of a north windowisjust as easy as in Grandma s Day .
Leaf cuttings are somewhat more Large single flowers in huge masses are the feature of Reiger Schwabenland begonias which are slightly easier to care for than the closely related double varieties.
temperamental. The leaf taken for propagation should be half way in age between a young and mature leaf; free of mildew and botrytis diseases! The leaf petiole (stem) should be cut with a clean sharp knife one-quarter to onehalf inch long. Simply press the petiole into the rooting media until the leaf blade is nearly flush with the surface. Do not press deep as this will form a cup to hold water and aggravate rotting.
Leafcuttings are started at 72-74°F. for four weeks. This initiates the rooting process. Keep the rootingmedium moist and maintain a high relative humidity so the leaves do not dehydrate until callus and roots are formed on each.
Pinch all growth when it reaches three inches
At the end of four weeks give a very, very light feeding. The leaf cuttings are then moved to a 62-65°F. area to initiate adventitious buds at the base ofthe petiole. This takes another two weeks. At the end ofthe two weeks at 62-65°F., young plants may be returned to 70°F. to develop the new shoots and be given light feedings on a weekly basis. Do not allow the propagating media to become
Cuttings of both types of Rieger begonias must be given 14 hours of daylength to maintain vegetative growth by applying fluorescent light to extend the daylength when needed.
Having now successfully propagated the plants, potting up to promote growth is the next step. For most commercial growers the next move is directly to a 5- or 6-inch pot because they cannot afford the unnecessary repotting steps. Since growth and root action is slower in the winter, five-inch pots are recommended for that period. Six-inch pots are used in the summer to allow a greater reservoir for water. Either clay pots or plastic pots are satisfactory. The recommended potting medium is 45 percent peat moss, 45 percent perlite and 10 percent soil. After potting, the optimum regime for both types is 70°F. with a 14-hour daylength and high humidity for the first several days.
After the initial start, greatest precaution must be taken to keep the relative humidity low. Both powdery mildew and botrytis are easily aggravated
by high relative humidity. Begonias love vigorous ventilation for the healthiest type of growth. If mildew does get started, sulphur dusting or vaporizing should bring the problem under control. The leaf-type cuttings should develop with 2-5 basal shoots. The Aphrodite stem cuttings will -basically grow a single stem straight up. In either case when new growth of the shoots has attained a height of approximately three inches, the tips should be pinched out of all uniform shoots near that height. This procedure allows the Schwabenland types to fill in with additional bottom growth and eventually side branches from the pinched shoots. The Aphrodite types will simply branch out along the main stem with new shoots emerging at the leaf axis.
A bonus if you should discover a valuable mutation
Within two to four weeks after the pinching operation, plants may be moved to a cooler (65°F.) area, with a 12-hour day for optimum flower initiation and development. At this time it is helpful to put bamboo stakes strategically in the Schwabenland types. The plants will automatically develop around the stakes for support. The same may be done to the Aphrodite types if unright growth is desired. The greatest exposure offlowering on the Aphrodites is displayed, however, when this group is grown in hanging baskets. The writer has seen hanging baskets that flowered continuously for nine months!
There is the greatest temptation to over-water Rieger begonias. On watering, a good rule of thumb is to water newly potted plants in five- to six-inch pots daily the first week to be sure the medium is completely wetted. Thereafter, water only when the plant begins to lose its lustre, and takes on a grey cast. Then water thoroughly. Always water in the morning! Keep the foliage dry!
There was originally one variety of Rieger s Aphrodite type. Commercially there are three additional cultivars developed as mutations. The writer introduced several more the summer of 1974. There was only one original Rieger s Schwabenland variety. At the moment there are at least ten cultivars that
mutated from that variety. Suggestion . . watch for mutations, they can become commercially valuable as a side bonus to your flower growing hobby! Unfortunately, the Rieger begonias have been plagued with two major problems that have affected the expected dramatic expansion of the market, as took place in Europe. The first of these problems is foliar nematode (eelworm). Some new chemicals not yet released to commercial growers show real promise in eliminating this troublesome problem. The second, and more serious malady, is begonia blight. At present the only positive way to eliminate this organism is to tissue culture selected clones until absolutely disease free stock is produced in the laboratory. The one and the same procedure will simultaneously eliminate the foliar nematode.
Mikkelsens Inc., sole licensing agent for North America embarked on just such a programme for begonias two years ago. Ten of the most important varieties have been given a clean bill of health and are now in various stages of commercial production.
It should be pointed out that the Rieger begonias are being patented. Some varieties have already been assigned U.S. patent numbers. Others are on file in the Patent Office awaiting the assignment of the patents. All Rieger varieties also have a trade mark. Commercial propagation rights are prohibited except by license and payment of a royalty fee. The double flowers of Reiger Aphrodite begonias literally cover the plants for months at a time. This type is useful for indoor
Events in blue held at Civic Garden Centre; more data from the Centre (445-1552) unless a specific phone number given. All other events (in black) held elsewhere; for data call phone number given. All events begin at 8:00 pm unless otherwise stated.
Sun Mon
NOVEMBER
17
Library and Shop open 1 to 5 pm
24
Library and Shop open 1 to 5 pm
DECEMBER
Annual Civic Garden Centre Christmas Sale of Books and Garden and Gift Items from 1 to 5 pm
1
Library and Shop open until 6 pm
S. Ontario Orchid S. at 1:00 pm (759-1439)
8
Library & Shop open 1 to 5 pm
15
Library & Shop open 1 to 5 pm
E. Toronto H. & Dahlia S. | 8 (691-3665)
KIngsway-Sunnylea H.S. (247-6093)
Mount Albert H.S. Award Night & Banquet at 6:30 pm (473-2120)
Newmarket H.S. Christmas Show (895-4145)
Scarborough H.S. (282-8728)
Stouffville H.S. Annual Meeting Supper at 6:30 pm (640-1922)
Westway H.S. (247-6093)
Woodbridge H.S. Prize Night (851-0300)
Markham H.S. Christmas 25 Show (294-3267)
North York H.S. Christmas Party (221-2158)
Roseland H.S. (893-1288)
Abbreviations used as follows: H. = Horticultural; S. = Society; and G.C. = Garden Club. Note: Civic Garden e Centre Shop and Library open 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, . Monday to Friday, plus additional hours listed below. ot
Tues
North Toronto H.S. Prize ] 9 Night (488-4749)
Aurora H.S. Dried Flower Display (727-6232)
Leaside G.C. (481-0192)
Toronto African Violet S. (6914450)
Georgina Brock H.S. 2 Christmas Show (4322592)
Oshawa H.S. Christmas Show (782-8302)
Library open 7 to 9 pm
Brampton H.S. (459-0119)
Lakeshore H.S. (278-
26 2517)
Lake Simcoe (Sutton) H.S. (4763087)
Schomberg H.S. (939-2146)
Thornhill H.S. Annual Dinner (889-0231)
Toronto Bonsai S. (7822403)
Agincourt G.C. Christmas Party (294-1701)
Men's Garden Club regu- 3 lar monthly meeting
Pickering H.S. (282-2441)
Library and Shop open 7 to 9 pm
E. Toronto H. & Dahlia 5. 1 & Christmas Party (6913665)
Library and Shop open 7 to 9 pm
Gardeners & Florists A. of l 0 Ontario lar month meeting (222-1275)
Aurora H.S. (727-6232)
Library & Shop open 7 to 9 pm
17
Cloverleaf G.C 3476) 57|
pm (655-3790)
Swansea H.S. A (762-1001)
Etobicoke H.S 5255)
Library and Shop
Unionville H.S. (2
Growing plants indoors with only a moderate amount ofattention is simply a matter of choosing the right kinds. This means, for the average home, selecting plants that will thrive with little light and quite dry air.
Nowadays, with the use of specially designed artificial lighting and improved means of humidification, there are few plants that can t be successfully grown in the home. Orchids, for example, are not a great problem when they are given proper structures with controlled light and humidity. However, this month let us consider only plants whose growing requirements are not so demanding.
From the collections with which 1 worked closely in Ottawa, we might choose as the easiest plants for the beginner to grow: the jade plant (Crassula arborescens); aucuba laurel (Aucuba Japonica); the miniature palm Chamaedorea elegans Bella , (often named Neanthe Bella by florists); the snake plant (Sanseviera spp.); the rubber plant (Ficus elastica); aspidistra (Aspidistra elatior); English ivy (Hedera helix), and many cultivars of Philodendron, all of which are very long-suffering and will grow with the least amount of care.
About the only things that adversely
Homes & Gardens Tour
MARCH 28, 1975
Visiting the unusual homes of Charleston, South Carolina, including the Nathaniel Russell House and nearby Cypress and Magnolia Gardens; and Old Salem at Winston Salem. 10 DAYS ONLY $439.00
For further information contact your travel agent or MARY MORTON TOURS
P.O. Box 436, Station K, Toronto 12 Tel: 488-2674
House Plants Anyone can Grow in the average Home or Apartment
Arthur R. Buckley*
affect these plants is watering too frequently or using too much fertilizer, both of which cause leaf drop, yellowing of the leaves and other abnormalities. Give them a fair amount of light and they will grow for years.
Plants that will grow in dark corners usually come from the dark, damp tropical rain forests where they grow on the forest floor in collected leaves and moss or on the trunks oftrees and in the forks of large branches. Here at the base of large trees grows the aspidistra, and one could find several forms of the common philodendron, a plant almost everyone knows, climbing around the stems of the trees. This vine will climb spirally up the trunk of the tree until its long stems reach out over the top of the forest, some 75 feet high. Selection and breeding have now produced a wide variety of these plants, from the cutleaved types to those with simple and heart-shaped leaves.
The so-called dumb cane (Dieffenbachia) too, lives in the undergrowth of the tropical forest. In our living rooms it will flourish best when placed in a location with bright, diffused light.
It is always surprising to find that these plants willgrow well in our homes even though -they lack the humidity found in their native environment. Given the kind ofsoil they like and lots of warmth, they will grow with the greatest of vigour.
Other similar types ofcarefree yet attractive plants are the Chinese evergreen (Aglaonema modestum), Pothos, Schefflera, Philodendron, Dracaena, Peperomia, the spider plant (Chlorophytum), and all the multiple forms ofthese genera.
*Mr. Buckley retired asornamentalplantspecialist with The PlantResearch Institute, Agriculture Canada, Ottawa, Ontario, over a year ago. He to write gardening information columns for newspapers across Canada.
The flowering plants easiest to grow are the fibrous begonias (Begonia semperflorens), patience plants (Impatiens sultanii), African violets (although some might find this hard to believe), Episcia, Clivia, shrimp plant (Beloperone) and Achimenes.
Fibrous begonias lifted from the outside flower beds and potted in late autumn will continue to flower after re- covery from the shock of digging. They will need cutting back occasionally to retain a compact shape.
Episcias are red and yellow-flowered plants that will grow in similar light to that for African violets but otherwise re- quire much the same treatment. They are often called flame violets , although they are really not one bit like the African violet, but have very fine, decorative foliage and a more trailing habit. Episcia Pink Brocade as shown on this issue s cover grows particularly well un- der artificial lights and is recommended for such installations rather than natural-light windowsills. This variety does not require high humidity, nor does it need to be placed directly under fluorescent lights, but at the side of the plant tray where a medium intensity is available. Oddly enough, the only suc- cessful method of propagation for this variety is by root stolons, since rooted leaves revert to one single colour.
Clivias will bloom year after year in the same soil provided they are given a rest period for a month after they finish flowering.
African violets do best in a fertile mixture ofloam soil and peat moss or a commercially prepared African violet soil mix readily obtained at the Civic Garden Centre. They will do well in a window shaded from strong sunlight during the brightest part of the day. This provides sufficient light to promote flowering but not enough to cause the leaves to yellow.
These, then, are among the best of the more easily grown house plants. But any plant will benefit from more than green thumbs. Talk with others about your hobby. Read about the plants you like. Do some experimenting. All these pursuits help make the growing of house plants more enjoyable.
Above, a collection of the popular African violets well grown and flowering beau- tifully. Immediately below, a philodendron anchored to a piece of bark for support, in an office setting; and at bottom, two examples of snake plants (Sanseviera). Agriculture Canada photos.
GARDEN CENTRE
Be sure to come and make your selection of Books and Garden and Gift items for Christmas at our annual Christmas Sale see you at the Centre
Thurs., Nov. 28, 10 am to 9 pm
Fri. & Sat., Nov. 29-30, 10 am to 6 pm Sun., Dec. 1,1 to 5 pm
You are invited . .
to visit our greenhouses (80,000 square feet) and see our quality tropical and foliage plants, cactus and succulents plus African violets. Have your house plant questions answered by experts!
Open six days per week (closed Sundays) from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Just a few minutes off Highway 403 (Main St. West Exit).
BEN VELDHUIS LTD. DUNDAS, ONTARIO
(416) 628-2632
FOUR STEPS TO A BEAUTIFUL LAWN.
So-Green has developed an easy-to-follow, four step program that will guarantee you a beautiful lawn. Each step has been outlined in this publication during the past months.
STEP4: SEPT. OCT./ NOV.
If you failed to eliminate all your weeds earlier, or if a new crop has blown in, make sure they're gone next spring by applying So-Green Fall Season Weed Control with 3-6-10 fertilizer. This product is formulated to winterize your lawn and control persistent weeds while fertilizing your grass.
If weeds are no problem, apply So-Green Fall Season Lawn
Fall Season Weed Control available in 40 |b. bags. Apply at the rate of 10 Ibs. per 1000 sq. ft Fall Season Lawn Food available in 40 Ib. bags. Apply at the rate of 10 Ibs. per 1000 sq. ft.
For a free copy of the complete So-Green Four Step Program write to the address below.
Sofree
Food 3-6-10 and help your lawn So-Green Division, F. Manley survive the winter.
Cor poration, 25 Lesmill Road,Don Mills, Ontario.
The next regular meeting of the Milne House Garden Club will be on Novem- ber 19, at which time Civic Garden Centre associate director, Art C. Drysdale will be the speaker.
Mr. Drysdale will be speaking to a series of his own colour slides showing picturesque gardens and flower shows. Members will want to come out to hear his enlightened commentary.
At the same meeting, there will be a demonstration of the art of Pomander making. This entails the preparation of
Centre s School of Floral Decoration begins new courses early in New Year
The Civic Garden Centre runs, almost continuously, courses at three levels in non-professional flower arranging. The next series ofcourses will begin early in the new year, and reservations are being accepted now. If you are interested in learning the basics of home flower arranging how to beautify your home with only a few flowers and much ingenuity then you should consider taking one of the Centre s six week basic courses taught by talented accredited instructors. Or, if you have already completed one or two basic courses, you may wish to consider an intermediate course to advance your skills. This winter is the ideal time to learn, and meet new friends while you are doing it.
The special three-day workshops announced in our October issue were over subscribed and will be repeated in the new year. Watch for the announcement.
The Centre also runs other series of courses, including one in rug hooking, and one on working with papier mache. Ifyou are interested in any ofthese subjects, just call the Centre 445-1552
Milne House Garden Club members to hear about Pomander and European Flower Shows
Ursula Van Heel herbs and dried fruit into aromatic balls to place between your clothes or linen an old fashioned custom. Many years ago they were sold in the streets of Lon- don, England, to ward offevil and have since become a happy Christmas gift idea.
Our final meeting of the year will be on Wednesday, December 4, at 8:00 pm when members will bring their hus- bands or friends for a Thank You to Members Night . There will be two films shown and wine and cheese for cheer.
and obtain full details. If there is some- thing you would like in the floral arts, mention it to us, and we may well be able to get a suitable group together for a short course.
GARDEN ALL YEAR
A hobby without peer - for leisure, home beauty and livability - a garden that blooms all year with only a few hours care each week.
Our catalogue contains dozens of full colour photos of prefabricated greenhouses in lifetime aluminum. With it you can choose a greenhouse that is sure to harmonize with your home. Write for your copy today!
LORD & BURNHAM CO. LIMITED
Dept. T, 325 Welland Ave., St. Catharines, Ontario
A vell-attended meeting of the 100member Gardening Under Lights group at the Civic Garden Centre was the scene for an enthusiastic presentation from an international expert in the field. Fred Buck, of General Electric in Cleveland, addressed the group at their October 9 meeting. Mr. Buck flew from Cleveland especially to speak to the members, and passed them a further compliment by commenting on their enthusiasm and the knowledgeable depth of their questions.
A copy of one of Mr. Buck s publications, Plant Growth Lighting, was distributed to each member and will serve as a useful reference for lamp selection, lighting techniques and as a plant guide. Additional copies are available at the Centre for group members not able to be in attendance at the October meeting.
The presentation itself was most interesting colour slides with informal comments. Fred Buck has a job most of us envy he is able to combine his work and his hobby. His office is his
A cabinet light garden with glass doors enables even apartment dwellers, where the air is normally very dry, to create specific plant environments such as high humidity.
major plant room and he can experiment unendingly. His years of research have produced many similar findings to those mentioned in George Elbert s The Indoor Light Gardening Book (strongly recommended by the speaker).
Fred Buck s personal preference in lights is a combination of the red and blue spectrums. For home hobbyists he recommends red from incandescent (regular) light bulbs and the blue from fluorescent tubes. Miniature roses, he adds however, prefer the cool white deluxe fluorescents with no red added.
By using conditions known to be helpful to plants in addition to correct lighting, hobby growers may easily attain success. For example, controlled environments of temperature and relative humidity, plus proper fertilization are possible with even the smallest lighting cabinets that may be homebuilt. Mr. Buck pointed out that in large growth chambers, commercial growers get at least ten per cent more growth than average. He also went on to show the synergistic carba/protein system which grows and utilizes plants, animals, and waste in a continuing process in one building which is a possibility for combating land and labour shortages and the restrictions of severe climates such as that in northern Canada. Much food for thought in his slides!
Briefly dealing with photoperiodic control of plant growth, he showed the use by commercial growers of outdoor lighting to keep chrysanthemums from setting buds, and pointed out that even a flashlight beam for a second upsets the nightly darkness requirement of poinsettias.
Mr. Buck went on to say that although high-output fluorescents of special design, using different sockets and
Centre s Gardening Under lights group hosts International Expert
Betty Naylor
ballasts (the transformers within the fixtures) are available for commercial growers and very serious amateurs, he recommended the normal two 40-watt fluorescent tubes and two 25-watt incandescent bulbs, giving 500 footcandles. This is satisfactory for most plants under light. He also said the light fixtures should be shielded with a white reflecting surface to keep glare down. It was noted that the Centre s shop stocks a supply ofsuch fixtures and tubes etc.
In answer to queries from the audience, Mr. Buck s replies were as follows. 1) Fourteen hours of light per day is the standard with one warm white and one cool white tube the warm white for the reddish parts of the light spectrum, and the cool white for the blue-green segments. 2) Tubes should be changed every 10,000 hours, or approximately every two years at 14 hours per day. 3) The cool white/incandescent combination is the preferred, but growers must watch that the heat from the incandescent bulbs does not harm plants if they grow close to the light source. 4) Usually 25-watt incandescent bulbs are best; however, the ratio to use
is three fluorescent watts to one watt incandescent. 5) The lighter the surfaces in the lights area, the higher the reflection. A flat white surface is best for good reflection, but reduced glare.
On the subject of a growing mixture for plants intended for outdoors, Fred Buck recommended one-third each of peat moss, vermiculite and sphagnum moss, with one tablespoon of agricultural lime and one of a 10-10-10 fertilizer. For indoor plants, the recommendation was one-third each of sphagnum moss, vermiculite and soil or sand, with a one to four solution ofliquid fertilizer every two weeks. He also suggested cuttings be rooted in vermiculite or vermiculite and perlite.
With regard to watering practices, he said that he recommends watering from the top if the planting medium is loose, such as those he suggested.
The wide-ranging discussion continued over coffee, and group members viewed specimen plants brought by the more experienced members, and also had the opportunity to buy healthy cuttings at minimum prices.
Bulletins from other light gardening chapters in the U.S.A. were provided for members to read, and catch up on what others are doing with their growing light gardening hobby. The next meeting will be at the Centre on December 11.
Even a used industrial fluorescent fixture may be easily converted into plant-growth use by an ingenious plant lover. Agriculture Canada photo.
Centre s Shop will triple its Display Space in pending Move to Building s Foyer
Mrs. Doris Weir, Shop Director
The busiest time for our garden and gift shop is always the last two months of the year. We always have our Christmas sale at the end of November, and there is much advance preparation for this event, and this year as well, we ll have a booth, along with our bookshop, in the horticultural area at the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair. At the fair, as well as here in the shop, we are featuring the new Tropical series of Dutch amaryllis bulbs. This new series, available earlier than the famous, larger Dutch amaryllis which are considerably more expensive, are guaranteed to provide two flower stalks per bulb, and three flowers per stalk. Growing them is simple, and is detailed on page 3 of this issue. Be sure to pick a couple of these bulbs and start them over a period of a month or more for continuous flowers early in the new year.
Though our Christmas sale does not begin until November 28, there are a number of new items for Christmas in already. Be sure to look over our selection of gift items next time you are at the Centre.
Important news this month both about our shop committee, and the shop s location in the Centre. First, Mrs. J. H. (Betty) Billes has taken on chairmanship ofour shop committee, as well as being convenor for our Christmas sale later this month. The news about _ the shop s location should be of interest
to all our members. As soon as work can be begun after Christmas, and until our new building is complete, our shop will be located in a much larger area in the Centre s foyer. Actually, little additional .floor space will be used, it will just be put to more efficient use than at present. You should start to see signs of both a new bookshop and garden and gift shop early in the new year.
This modern, Canadian-made terrarium lamp is available at the Centre's shop. It may also be used for mixed pans of plants and flowers, or for pots of large single flowering plants. See it soon!
The production of these two pages in each 1974 issue is made possible through a donation from Meadowvale Botanical Gardens, founded by the late Howard B. DuningtonGrubb, whose love of gardens was exemplified by his life work and wish to see gardening madea common recreational hobby in Canada.
November is an exciting month in Canadian libraries for it is then that Young Canada Book Week is celebrated. It gives us all an added chance to emphasize the importance of printed material for young people, both as a source ofinformation and as a spur to the imagination. We hope you will take the opportunity to introduce a special child to a special book. At the very least, do look at our library display case where we are highlighting some of the material from our young people s section.
The library at the Civic Garden Centre has a small but very active collection of books, periodicals and pamphlets. The staff are always pleased when they recognize new faces for this probably means new members have become regular borrowers. We will do all we can to help and encourage members to borrow material, but we want also to do all we can to ensure its return on time. This way books circulate faster and everyone has a better chance of securing the titles desired. The normal loan period is three weeks and books may be renewed once, with the exception of flower arranging books which are not renewable. Renewal privileges. which may be granted over the phone, are only available if no one else is waiting for the book. Reluctantly, we find it necessary to have a fine schedule. Overdue books are charged for at the rate of five cents per day, excluding Sundays, to a maximum of $1 per book. Children having overdues are charged five cents per week per book to a maximum of 25 cents per book.
Centre s Library and Bookshop are prepared for Christmas Rush
Mrs. Wendy Hillier, Librarian
you would like to be a little less frantic later on this year, look at one or two of these books now. Metcalfe, E., The Trees of Christmas, marvellous illustrations and instructions for anyone who would like to have a Christmas tree decorated somewhat differently this year. Biddle, D.. Christmas Idea Book, evergreen wreaths; cones for coloured fireplace flames; table centres; these and many other bazaar ideas are all presented. Goddard, H. The Gardener s Christmas Book. Here is a book to help you decorate both home and garden. It also has a chapter on decorations most likely to appeal to children. Jagendorf, M. A., Folk Wines, Cordials and Brandies. 1t s perhaps too late to produce your own cheer for the holidays, but you may at least regale your guests with some of the attendant folklore.
And, finally three books that may give you ideas for Christmas gifts: Bauzen, P, Flower Pressing, $3.95; lida, M., The Art of Handmade Flowers, $12.50: and Krechmal. C., A Guide to Natural Cosmetics, $10.30. These, in addition to being available from the bookshop, are on our library shelves.
Preparations for the holiday season certainly begin early at the Civic Garden Centre. The bookshop is full of enticing gifts for Christmas giving. If you look over our selection early, you will know what to put on your own want list . For those who simply can t make up their minds, a Book Gift Certificate might be the answer. These can be made up in any denomination, and give the recipient the fun of choosing his own title.
This is the time of year when it becomes evidentjust who are well organized and plan ahead. We can recognize these paragons because now is when they come in to borrow books to help with holiday gifts and deeoratlons If enaughsosh p""
Don t let December find you without an adventcalendar.Thesecalendarsare for use the 24days leading uptoChristmas. Last year we si pjy duinothatve %
With this issue, we have almost reached the end ofthe first year of publication for Trellis. While we have received many favourable comments and membership has increased 40 per cent, we have not been without our problems!
Our main concern, and the situation that has lead to a number ofjustifiable complaints is the regularity or irregularity ofissuance. The May and June issues, though later than originally anticipated, were mailed in time for most readers to receive them at the beginning oftheperiod covered by the events calendar each contained. However, we fell behind again with the September issue and October was not much better. Our problems with mailing dates have not all been ofour own making. In order to get all of the material in for any one issue, we have often been too lenient with contributors in stretching deadlines. Often, this has resulted in Trellis having to be further delayed by other, more pressing projects (some involving the Civic Garden Centre), particularly because the vast majority of my time on this project is on a gratis basis this year. Another ongoing problem has been the overwork ofour printing company causing delays at one stage or another of virtually every issue.
Contributing in no small way to our difficulties has been the postal situation the prolonged strike and the overall poor service experienced by third class mail. We know that some members/subscribers, even in distant parts of Metropolitan Toronto and outlying areas, receive theircopies almost always within two days. Others, however, are not nearly so fortunate even though they may reside nearer the Civic Garden Centre or even near the heart of the City. Usual delivery time to many such areas (including my own three-
may | now have the ninth Last Word?
Art C. Drysdale, Editor
mile distant home) is a minimum of nine days 12 days for the October issue.
There would appear to be little that can be done about this situation other than individual members taking it up with their posties and station superintendents. One possible solution for the future would be for us to use envelopes and first class postage, but the additional cost of this per member per year would be a minimum of $1 at to-day s rates. Perhaps you might consider if you would be willing to pay this extra amount.
Since the majority of gardening and floral arts events at the Centre seem to occur at the beginning of the month, it now seems sensible to plan our issues to cover five-week periods beginning and ending mid-month. This means disappointment for a lesser number of people ifcopies are late in being distributed. But, we want to try and disappoint no one! In fact, the following letter from Mr. A. A. Nield ofScarborough not an isolated example is that at which we are aiming.
Dear Mr. Drysdale: I just wanted you to know how valuable Trellis is to me and my wife. Congratulations on such a good job! Early in the new year, would you be able to print an article on starting flowers and vegetables indoors? One of the advantages of your magazine is the practical nature of the articles. We are already planning next year s garden as a result ofrecent Trellis articles. Once again, congratulations. Such letters are most encouraging and help offset the problems incurred. We hope you, the readers, will have some patience with us. We are trying to improve. Next year we expect will see this deadline difficulty almost behind us. But there will be other problems! Please stay with us we re working on your behalf.
22 / November 1974
For Indoor Growing Browsing Daily and Sunday
No. 6 Highway, off #403, HAMILTON.
Work on your shade trees done by competent, professional men with years of experience. Call us early for an estimate.
m-m/ ,;@//rg f %);V{Qg @ 1480 St. Clair Avenue West Toronto, Ont. M6E 1C7 (416) 654-7025
Distlefink Feeder
(Thistle Finch from the Pennsylvania Dutch)
- A brand new feeder that will delight both amateur and professional ornithologists. Attracts droves of colorful goldfinches, purple finches, redpolls and saucy siskins! Especially designed to conserve seed because it restricts birds to picking out one seed at a time rather than scattering it on the ground. Wooden perches provide protection. Distributed by Yule-Hyde Associates Ltd., available at major department stores and the Civic Garden Centre.
SATURDAYS beginning at 10 a.m.
SUNDAYS beginning at 8:10 a.m,
YEARGARDENINGROUND N
EDEN 68 aluminium greenhouses
Complete package models including frame and glass.
ENJOY FRESH VEGETABLES AND FLOWERS DURING THE WINTER MONTHS.
When gray days get you down there is no better tonic than fresh cut flowers from your own greenhouse. Realize the fabulous bounty of enjoying fresh vegetables during winter months when prices are high and selection is poor.
FEATURES
e Cannot rot, warp or rust
e Snap in Snap out glazing
ROOF VENTILATORS
e Space saving sliding door
e Maximum sunlight
Roof ventilators come as a standard feature on all Eden greenhouses, lean-to 's and extensions.
SLIDING DOOR
Our sliding door moves smoothly and silently, at a touch. Set on nylon wheels and sealed within a weatherproof track,
For free colour brochure or dealer nearest you, phone or write:
e Unequalled value for money
e Handily portable
it is completely protected from wind, rain and extremes of temperature. Incorporates sliding fastening bolt.
GUTTERING
You get aluminum guttering as a standard feature on the 8ft wide greenhouses.
LOUVRE VENTILATORS
Louvre ventilators are a very good idea, since they give improved ventilation to your plant growing area.