July/August 2016
MichiganGardener.com
Your guide to Great Lakes gardening
perennials
Hardy Hibiscus Vegetable Patch When to harvest
Feature
Tall native perennials
Herb of the Year Peppers
New Plants
New shrubs & trees for 2016
INSPIRING MICHIGAN GARDENERS SINCE 1996
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Michigan Gardener | July/August 2016 | MichiganGardener.com
Garden Wisdom “There is no gardening without humility. Nature is constantly sending even its oldest scholars to the bottom of the class for some egregious blunder.” —Alfred Austin
At Telly’s, there is always something fresh to add color to your summer garden. Come see why we are a favorite summer destination for so many Michigan gardeners.
To-Do List........................................................6 Vegetable Patch............................................8 Ask MG..........................................................10 Hibiscus ‘Berry Awesome’: 7-8" lavender-pink flowers July to Aug on 3.5-4' tall plants.
Epimedium ‘Ellen Willmott’: Unique orange spring flowers; perfect for dry shade.
Books for the Michigan Gardener....................................13 Thyme for Herbs........................................ 14 New Shrubs and Trees for 2016.......... 18 Places to Grow............................................22 Weather Wrap........................................... 24 Advertiser Index........................................ 24
Eryngium (Sea Holly) ‘Neptune's Gold’: Neat combo of blue flowers above gold foliage.
Bee Balm ‘Leading Lady Plum’: Early blooming (late June-late July), 10-14" tall and Full Sun.
Where to pick up Michigan Gardener..................................... 24 Calendar.........................................................25 Subscription Form......................................25 Classified Ads............................................. 26 Bulk Subscriptions..................................... 26
Helenium ‘Mariachi Bandera’: A festive blend of reds & golds Aug-Sept on 12-15" tall plants.
Anemone ‘Lorelei’: Soft pink petals surround yellow stamens; fall bloomer.
Sedum Sunsparkler Sedoro ‘Blue Elf’: Compact Echinacea ‘Sombrero Salsa Red’: Vibrant red grower. Dark pink flwrs above blue-green foliage. flowers July to early Sept; 22-24" tall.
Feature: Tall native perennials.............. 28 Through the Lens........................................31
Publisher/Editor Eric Hofley Design & Production Jonathon Hofley Advertising Eric Hofley Circulation Jonathon Hofley
TROY • 248-689-8735 3301 John R • 1/4 mile north of 16 Mile Rd.
Editorial Assistant Anna Doman
SHELBY TOWNSHIP • 248-659-8555 4343 24 Mile • Btwn Dequindre & Shelby Rd.
PONTIAC • 248-724-2300 559 Orchard Lake Rd (at Goldner Walsh) Between Telegraph & Woodward
find us on
www.tellys.com
Contributors Brian Allnutt Karen Bovio Cheryl English Emaline Fronckowiak Mary Gerstenberger Julia Hofley Rosann Kovalcik Janet Macunovich Steve Martinko Beverly Moss George Papadelis Sandie Parrott Traven Pelletier Jean/Roxanne Riggs Deborah Silver Jim Slezinski Lisa Steinkopf Steve Turner
www.PerennialResource.com
Hibiscus ‘Cranberry Crush’
Perennial Perspectives: Hardy Hibiscus..................Back Cover
On the cover: Hibiscus Summerific ‘Cherry Cheesecake’ is one of many hardy hibiscus that can add flower power to your late summer garden. Photo: www.PerennialResource.com
16291 W. 14 Mile Rd., Suite 5 Beverly Hills, MI 48025-3327 Phone: 248-594-5563 Fax: 248-594-5564 E-mail: publisher@MichiganGardener.com Website: www.MichiganGardener.com Publishing schedule 6 issues per year: April, May, June, July/Aug, Sept/Oct, Nov/Dec. Published the first week of the mo. Subscriptions (Please make check payable to Michigan Gardener) 1 yr, 6 iss/$14 2 yr, 12 iss/$26 3 yr, 18 iss/$36 Back issues All past issues are available. Please send your request along with a check for $3.00 per issue payable to Michigan Gardener. Canadian subscriptions 1 yr, 6 iss/$22 US 2 yr, 12 iss/$42 US Copyright © 2016 Michigan Gardener. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be copied, reproduced or used in any form without the expressed, written permission of the publisher. Neither the advertiser nor the publisher will be responsible for misinformation, typographical errors, omissions, etc. contained herein. Michigan Gardener is published by Motor City Publishing, Inc.
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Michigan Gardener | July/August 2016 | MichiganGardener.com
to-do list
◆
Perennials:
We still have a great selection of 1 gallon and 3” starter perennials for you to enjoy this summer, and for years to come!
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Annuals • Summer is the time that annuals pay back all the hard work you’ve put into them: planting, watering and fertilizing. A little deadheading here and there is usually all that’s necessary. Keep fertilizing regularly and be prepared for an extra watering every now and then as the weather turns hot.
Spring-Flowering Bulbs • The foliage from spring-flowering bulbs can be removed as it dies back. These bulbs can also be divided and replanted now, or wait until the fall.
Garden Accessories
Water
• Clean birdbaths and fountains by scrubbing algae growth from birdbaths, and add fresh water for wildlife. Birds and pollinators appreciate a fresh source of water to drink and bathe in. • Midsummer is a good time to clean your fountain pump. Remove the pump, take off the pre-filter (a screen to keep large debris out of the pump) and scrub with an old toothbrush. Open the impeller chamber, and carefully clean the magnet core. Remove any sediment or hard water build-up. Put everything back together and fill with fresh water. • Add a fountain clarifier to help keep water clean and clear.
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• Edge beds to keep grass from creeping in. Use a hand edger, shovel or power edger to cut roots and keep a crisp line. Apply fresh mulch to renew the look of beds, conserve water and reduce weeds.
Herbs • Keep plants producing by pinching off flowers, especially on basil. Once flowering starts to occur, the leaves become less palatable.
Houseplants • If your houseplants are vacationing outside this summer, they are probably becoming lush and green. Remember to monitor watering and fertilizer. They probably need to be checked at least every other day for water and once a week for fertilizer. Unless the plant is growing out of its pot, wait until late August to repot.
Lawns
2629 Orchard Lake Rd. • Sylvan Lake, MI 248-738-0500 • aguafina.com • Summer hours: Mon-Sat 9-5
• Mow regularly, so that you’re not taking off more than 1/3 of the grass height in a single cutting. If you cut off more, the crown of the grass is exposed to the sun. Sunburn weakens the lawn, leaving it more susceptible to weed invasion, bug problems and diseases.
• The third fertilizer treatment should be applied at the beginning of the month, about 6 to 8 weeks after the last one. Use a weed and feed, a fertilizer with insect control, or a straight fertilizer and spot treat weeds where necessary. • Lawns need an inch of water a week, spread between at least two waterings. Promote deep root growth and you’ll have a healthier lawn.
Perennials • Caring for perennials in July should be easy. Deadhead spent flowers, stake tall plants, and keep beds weed-free. Spread mulch around perennials to keep roots cool and help retain moisture. It’s much easier to pull weeds that grow in the mulch instead of the ground.
Roses • Prune roses for good air circulation, and you’ll have fewer disease problems to battle. Pruning improves air circulation, which helps plants fight black spot and mildew. Here’s a basic rose pruning guide: 1. Use a pair of good pruners—bypass are the best because they don’t damage the stems. 2. Eliminate the canes that grow back in towards the center of the bush. All canes should grow outward from the bush. Don’t worry if you’re pruning out quite a bit; pruning promotes growth. 3. Prune canes to an outward-facing, 5-part leaf. New growth will parallel the direction the leaf points, so follow that to see where the growth will go. If you prune down to an inward-facing bud, you’ll create new growth that will head back toward the airless center. 4. Prune on a 45-degree angle just above that 5-part leaf and seal the cut afterwards.
Shrubs & Trees • Make sure trees and shrubs, especially those that were recently planted, received adequate water during the hot, dry summer. A soaker hose that slowly waters the area is a good way to make sure water reaches the roots below the soil surface. • Keep watering until the ground freezes, usually in mid-December.
Vegetables • Vegetables should be growing strong now. Corn should be “knee high by the Fourth of July.” Continue to fertilize for best production. Water deeply, but only when the soil is dry about an inch down. Use a soaker hose for an effective and economic job. • During dry weather, mulch around plants to hold in moisture and help keep weeds at bay.
MichiganGardener.com | July/August 2016 | Michigan Gardener
7 *Garden items may vary slightly
Feature Task: Low maintenance gardening tips Gardening is a fun and rewarding hobby, but not everyone wants to spend every waking minute taking care of it. While no garden is completely maintenance free, here are some things that can be done to reduce the time: • Be realistic about how much time you have. A small garden or containers filled with flowers and vegetables might be more suitable to your lifestyle. • Select a location and learn its characteristics: Sun and wind exposure, soil type, drainage, and soil pH. • Most plants like full sun, which is 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. • Determine the wind exposure and what direction the plant will face: north, east, west or south. This is particularly important for plants that need protection from Michigan’s harsh winter winds. • Know your soil type: clay, sandy or loamy. Most plants do best in well-drained soil. Further, many absolutely cannot tolerate wet feet. Clay soil holds water and should be amended with pine bark fines to help break it up and allow water to flow freer. Sandy soil drains fast and doesn’t hold water. Amend it with peat moss to help retain water. The goal is a rich, loamy soil that’s a healthy mix of both clay and sand for proper drainage. • Get a soil test to identify pH (a measure of its acidity or alkalinity) as well as how much organic matter exists. That way you’ll know exactly what to use to fertilize and amend the soil. This information will help you select the right plants and care for them properly. • Pick the right plant for the location. A plant that’s happy and well suited to its environment will grow better, be less susceptible to pests and diseases, and ultimately require less care. Avoid fast-spreading or aggressive perennials that need to be divided frequently.
Water Gardens • Clean the pond regularly of string algae, and add beneficial microbes to maintain pond health. Floating pond plants provide cover for fish and help keep algae blooms down. • Fertilize pond plants with tablet fertilizer specifically designed for water garden plants. • To help control mosquitoes, introduce fish into the water or add mosquito dunks to prevent eggs from being laid. Provided by the professionals at English Gardens.
• Use dwarf or compact shrubs that grow slowly. • Group plants together according to their water needs, but also consider where in the garden they’re planted. Keep plants that need more frequent watering closer to the house. • Plant properly. The most common mistake is planting too deep. Never put soil on top of the root ball; plant at the same level it was in the pot. Use a root stimulator to reduce transplant shock and stimulate root growth. • Add a layer of mulch to reduce weeds and conserve moisture. • After removing weeds, use a pre-emergent to prevent weed seeds from sprouting. • Water when necessary. Trees, shrubs and flowers need TH water to survive. However, too much is just as bad as not enough. Generally, plants need about an inch of water each week. Newly planted plants need water every couple of days. The best way to know if a plant needs water is to check the soil using your finger. • When watering, thoroughly saturate the area around the roots. The root line of a plant generally extends just past its outermost branches. Then allow the soil to dry about an inch down. A thorough watering encourages deep root growth. To save time, automate watering, like drip irrigation for containers and sprinklers for the garden. • Fertilize to keep plants healthy. Fertilizer is particularly important for annuals and perennials. Select a time-release plant fertilizer that continues to fertilize throughout the season. • Monitor the garden frequently and remove weeds when they’re young. Small, easy jobs can become large, time-consuming ones if left unattended. Do just a little bit regularly.
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Milarch Nursery Q UA LIT Y P L A N TS & S E RV I C E S I N C E 1 972
Michigan Gardener | July/August 2016 | MichiganGardener.com
vegetable patch When to harvest your vegetables
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Back By Popular Demand…Daylily Dig! Saturday, July 23, 9am-5pm Walk the field and choose your favorite daylilies! Our staff will dig and package your plants for you. You’ll find nearly every color of the rainbow, including gorgeous bicolored and eyed varieties. Potted daylilies and perennials of all types will also be available.
1pm FREE Presentation: Dividing Daylilies At 1pm, gather under the tent for owner Karen Bovio’s presentation, Dividing Daylilies. Karen will discuss the how’s and why’s of dividing daylilies. She will explain and demonstrate tips and techniques so that you will have a clear understanding of how to properly divide daylilies in your own garden.
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T
wo of the topics that gardeners seem to be most concerned about are 1) how to plant, and 2) when to harvest their vegetables. Both depend on what is being grown. By midsummer, spring and summer planting are completed and it’s a good time to start thinking about an end of summer planting for a late fall harvest of cool weather crops. That said, what most gardeners are thinking about now is: when can I start harvesting? Here are some tips to help with knowing when to harvest your vegetables. Did you plant from seed? If so, check the package the seeds came in to see if it listed “days to maturity.” There are no hard and fast rules that the plant will be Mary ready to harvest in Gerstenberger exactly the specified number of days, but it will get you into the ballpark of when to start checking for a harvest. Weather and growing conditions may speed up or slow down the maturing process, so be sure to take that into consideration. Did you purchase transplants? It may be necessary to keep a closer eye on the plant. If purchasing transplants at a farmers market, one can always ask the grower about likely harvest time. Remember that transplants may take several days to adjust to new growing conditions, and that may delay fruit production. Something to consider is what part of the plant you are harvesting. If harvesting leaves from cool weather plants like lettuce, spinach and cilantro, leaves can be harvested from the first plants thinned out of the row until the weather warms up and the plants begin to bolt (start to grow taller and produce flowering stems). Once the plant bolts, the leaves may lose flavor or become bitter. That’s a good time to pull the plant and put a warm weather veggie in its place. Depending on what you like and how you use them, carrots can be harvested almost any time after the
Harvesting tips Green beans: Harvest when smooth and slender. If noticeable bumps develop along the pod, the seeds are developing and the pod is past its prime. Cabbage: Any time after the heads form and feel solid to hand pressure. Try to harvest before any splitting of the head occurs. Corn: Harvest when the silks turn brown and dry. Cucumber: Once they are green and firm; smaller is usually better. Garlic: When the tops yellow or about 2/3 of the tops are dried out; usually in July or August. Kohlrabi: When the stem is between 1 and 3 inches in diameter. If the stem gets too large, it becomes woody and may change flavor. Pepper: Bell peppers can be harvested at any size, but usually when they are about 3 to 4 inches long and firm. When mature, they should easily break away from the plant. That said, cutting them away may avoid damaging the plant. Potatoes: Dig up after the vines die. Pumpkins: When they have a deep, solid color and the rind is hard. Leave 3 to 4 inches of stem attached for better storage. Summer squash: Pick small; 2 inches or less in diameter and 6 to 8 inches long for yellow summer squash and zucchini. Tomato: Firm and fully colored; they taste best when allowed to ripen on the vine. taproot forms until late winter or very early spring if you can keep the ground from freezing. Just remember that carrots are a biennial, so the second year they will start to form flower heads at the expense of the root. There are many great resources for growing and harvesting vegetables. Check the MSU Gardening in Michigan website at www. migarden.msu.edu for more information.
Mary Gerstenberger is the Consumer Horticulture Coordinator at the Michigan State University Extension in Macomb County, MI. For vegetable and gardening information from MSU, visit www.migarden.msu.edu. Mark your calendar: Macomb County Smart Gardening Conference “Growing for the Future” with a focus on pollinators Saturday, September 24, 2016 Doors open 8:00 a.m. Conference begins 9:00 a.m. / Conference ends 3:30 p.m. Early Bird price (registration by August 13): $60. After August 13 price: $75. Registration deadline August 31, 2016 / Details at www.macombcountymga.com
Say Hello to The Garden Company Does your garden look tired during the summer? It doesn’t have to be that way. We are experts at selecting the right plants and implementing designs that look great throughout the summer. Give us a call and we’ll help make your garden look fabulous.
Become a better gardener
Oakland Community College has classes for you! IN-DEPTH – Just a sampling of the classes OCC offers: Introduction to Ornamental Horticulture Plant Identification • Turf grass Flowering Annuals and Perennials Insect Pests & Disease Identification Landscape Irrigation • Nursery Practices Plus many more!
AFFORDABLE – A typical class is 3 hours per week for 15 weeks: a total of 45 hours. At roughly $200, that is less than $5 per hour! From welcoming front entrances to relaxing backyard spaces, we create beautiful custom gardens and outdoor living areas that reflect the unique lifestyle and personality of each of our clients. Call us and we will do the same for you.
248-388-8581
FOR MORE INFORMATION: Web
www.oaklandcc.edu (click on “Programs” then “Landscape Horticulture”)
E-mail Tracy Moloughney, tbmoloug@oaklandcc.edu Phone 248-232-4536 (ask for Tracy Moloughney)
College Admissions Deadline: Aug 15 Final Registration: Aug 31-Sep 2
Detroit Garden Works is proud to present the 9th annual Garden Cruise—a tour of gardens designed, planted and/or inspired by Deborah Silver. The landscapes themselves are varied in style and approach, but all reflect an ownership for whom the beauty of a garden is an important part of life. Our most serious mission as a business is to foster the idea of stewardship of the environment—a duty The Greening of Detroit embraces every day. All tour proceeds will benefit the planting and educational programs at The Greening of Detroit.
Sunday, July 17, 9am-4:30pm
Tour only: $35/person • Tour & Cocktail Reception: $50/person PURCHASE IN-STORE OR OVER PHONE: Detroit Garden Works • 248-335-8089 PURCHASE ONLINE: TheGardenCruise.org
Read more about the cruise at TheGardenCruise.org SHOP OUR WEBSITE—WE SHIP: www.DetroitGardenWorks.com
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Annuals • Perennials • Roses • Trees • Shrubs 5-Year, Hassle-Free Guarantee on most Trees & Shrubs 1 Year on Roses, Rhododendrons, Azaleas & Perennials
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Roses in containers What kind of container should I use to grow a rose on my porch? I want to see it at eye level so it would need to be in an elevated container or grown as a standard. P.M., Ann Arbor Any rose can be planted in a container, but the larger the rose, the larger the container you will need. It will also be considerably heavier once you have filled it with soil and plant. Make sure you have a dolly with casters under it to make moving the pot easier. Since elevation is key, you may want to double container your rose. The outer container provides the eye level height while the inner one is planted with your rose. This is important if the rose is not on a standard. Both containers need drainage holes. You can put filler material such as cobbles or bricks in the outer shell container to lift the inner one to match the outer lip edge. Containers come in many different materials: wood, plastic, resin, clay, or metal. A straight-sided container offers more room for the roots than those with tapered sides. Choose a pot that will accommodate the root ball’s growth over an extended period of time. Make sure the container has several drainage holes. If it doesn’t, drill more if the container material will let you. Floribundas, polyanthas, miniatures (including those on standards), and hybrid teas make excellent choices for a container rose. When planting, do not put gravel in the bottom of the pot. Studies have shown that the soil must be completely saturated before it will drain through. Instead, use a piece of window screen over the drainage holes. Water will drain out but your soil will remain. Use non-compacting, moderately rich, and moisture-retaining soil. There are soil mixes available that are specially made for roses. Sterile mixes won’t provide any nutrients to the rose. Once planted, the rose should be 1 to 2 inches below the rim of the container so that water will soak through and not run over the edge. Plants in containers may need protection from extreme temperatures, wind and storms, even if on a porch. Having the container on a dolly allows you the ease of moving the rose into a protected area and into more hospitable conditions if necessary.
Eradicating horsetail weed How do I get rid of the invasive horsetail weeds in my garden? Since their roots are several inches long, what herbicide can I use? C.T., Hartland If the area where the horsetail (Equisetum) is located is planted with desirable plants,
then you will need to do the cut and daub method or cut and target spray the stem stub. You cannot run the risk of overspraying valuable plants with an herbicide. Repeated hand applications of Roundup will travel through the web-like network of underground rhizomes and substantially slow the spread. Considered a living fossil, horsetail (Equisetum arvense) is one of the oldest plants on the planet, primarily because it is one of the toughest to eradicate. Horsetail has an airy, fernlike look—upright like a bottle brush, with wiry, leafless 6-inch to 2-foot stems as well as shoots tipped with a cone that produces the plant’s reproductive spores. The pioneers and homesteaders would use bundles of these stems as a pot scrubber to clean their cooking utensils. If you look closely at the stem, you will see it is finely corrugated and quite tough. The plant spreads not only by spores, but through rhizomatous roots that, when broken, can form new plants from the tiniest piece. If you try to pull it, dig it up, or cultivate it out, you will likely only spread it.
Pruning affects clematis blooms I have a five-year-old ‘Bourbon’ clematis, which is supposed to be a summer bloomer. Every year, however, it blooms in May and early June and that’s it. Can I get this plant to bloom later in the season? Also do any clematis rebloom? M.C., Redford Controlling bloom on clematis is directly related to pruning—the when and how much. Bloom time is influenced by pruning because bloom occurs on both the prior year’s growth (old wood) and on the current year’s growth (new wood). ‘Bourbon’ is considered to be a “pruning group 2” clematis. Stems should only be lightly pruned back to strong sets of buds in late winter (which will encourage a late spring to early summer bloom on old growth), followed by a second light pruning after the first flush of old growth bloom, for purposes of stimulating a later summer to early fall bloom on new growth. Plants generally need an adequate supply of nutrients during the growing season to support the rush of growth.
Spots on black-eyed Susan leaves The leaves on many of my black-eyed Susan plants are filled with black spots— some almost covering the entire leaf. The plants are still blooming. Will the plants be affected next year? Should I treat the soil or plants this year? If so, is there are a natural remedy to use? C.T., Farmington Hills What you are seeing is the common septoria leaf spot, a fungal disease that begins as small, dark brown lesions that enlarge from
1/8 to 1/4 inch in diameter. Although the lesions are usually rounded, there may be angles where leaf veins limit the spread of the fungus. Spores are produced in late spring and early summer, causing leaf spots on the lower leaves. The spores of the fungus are dispersed by splashing water, with lesions first appearing on lower leaves and later developing on upper leaves as the season progresses. Fungal diseases are all about hygiene. Remove the infected leaves at the end of the growing season to reduce re-infection levels. Because leaf moisture is essential for infection to occur, increase air circulation around the foliage by properly spacing plants and removing volunteer seedlings to prevent overcrowding. As with other leaf disease problems, avoid overhead watering. Fungicides containing chlorothalonil or copper may protect new growth and reduce the spread of the disease. Preventative applications of fungicides should begin in early to mid June prior to the onset of symptoms. Therefore, if you see any compromised foliage, remove it and apply the fungicide. Also decongest the flower bed so moisture can evaporate. Instead of overhead watering, install a soaker hose which focuses on the root zones instead.
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root cellar or refrigerator. Notice this is not soil. By planting time, a fleshy callus should have formed over the cut ends. Make sure when placing the cuttings in the moist material to put the bottom ends down. Dust the callused ends with rooting powder (available in most garden stores). Stick the treated ends of the cuttings about 2 inches deep into fertile, well-tilled, light soil, and keep the soil moist. Mulch the cuttings with a thin layer of moist hardwood mulch to help hold moisture between regular watering. In a few weeks, both leaf and root growth should start. This is a good time to give them weekly light applications of liquid fertilizer for several weeks. Allow the cuttings to stay in the bed for a full year, and transplant them the following year in spring. There are also “softwood cuttings,” so named because the cutting is still green and actively growing. Take these in early summer when the plant is growing vigorously. Make each cutting 4 to 10 inches long from the new, soft sprouts, and root it in moist sand, perlite, a mix of perlite and vermiculite, or sphagnum moss in a small pot. Provide the high humidity the cuttings need by enclosing them in a plastic bag or under a bell jar, sprinkling them frequently. Use small bamboo stakes to keep the bag above the plants. Rooting should take place within a few weeks. After the cuttings have formed good root systems, move them gradually from their humid mini-climate into an ordinary environment. Shade them at first on sunny days, and water them frequently to prevent wilting. After each cutting is well established in its pot, transplant it into a larger pot to grow into a husky plant that can later be transplanted to a permanent location.
Fruit trees from cuttings I want to grow some fruit trees from branch clippings. I have a pear tree that was my grandpa’s and an apple tree that was from my other grandpa’s farm. When is the best time of year to start? Also, what should I do if they don’t have enough time to root before winter? C., Jackson Take hardwood cuttings from the tips of branches when the plant is dormant in winter or early spring. Make them about 6 to 15 inches long. Store them for three or four weeks in slightly moist sawdust or vermiculite in a cool
Answers provided by Beverly Moss, owner of Garden Rhythms.
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Herb of the Year: Peppers S
weet or hot, peppers are important vegetables and spices in the world today. They were first described by a doctor on Christopher Columbus’ ship in 1493. They are grown in Michigan as annuals, lasting one season. The “hot” in the peppers is caused by a single gene, which is lacking in the sweet varieties. Today, there are hundreds of varieties that have been adapted to grow in the southern climates and under cover in the northern areas. Peppers are sometimes picked green, and are used fresh in salsa or pickled or cooked in chilies. Peppers picked when ripe are used fresh or dried for winter use in the kitchen, in condiments, as counter-irritants, and in other medicinal preparations. As with other veggies and fruits, the red, ripe ones tend to have more flavor. Pepper sprays are commonly used as protection to ward off bad people who end up near you. Hot peppers are also rich in vitamin C. If you are trying to stop the “heat” after eating a hot one, do not use water or beer. Use whole milk or vegetable fat like that found in avocados. That’s why localized recipes include sour cream, yogurt, or coconut oil. Most of the heat is contained in the inside spines and seeds, so if you want a milder flavor, remove those parts.
Growing peppers
Hot peppers growing in pots during the summer. allows us to experiment with the wide variety of spicier ones now available. There are a few bugs that dine on the leaves, but we have not had a big problem with them, and the peppers themselves repel insects and varmints. Several varieties that have small, upright, bright red peppers have been developed for use as houseplants, but if you grow them, remember that those pretty peppers are hot.
All pepper varieties grow best in sunny areas and well-drained soil. Commercially available potting soil Varieties we have grown is good if you are growing Jean & Roxanne We grew ‘Anaheim’ (Capthem in pots. We add our Riggs sicum annuum), a mildly hot, own dried manure products pod type that is good stuffed. When dried, and sand before planting in our big pots, and it is ground up to make paprika. It grew tall fertilize regularly while they are growing. in our pots and produced lots of peppers, We use a plastic-type pot, as the clay pots dry but had to be staked so it didn’t fall over and out so much faster. Make sure the pots have break. The large red peppers made a pretty good drainage holes in the bottom. plant in the pot, and no critters bothered it at Peppers take a long growing season and all (chipmunks, field mice, squirrels, and deer are sometimes slow to start from seed. We are common in our front yard). purchase plants that are available at our local garden centers, which have varicontinued on page 16 eties for many different uses. This
The six hot pepper varieties we grew in pots.
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‘Habanero’ continued from page 14 We also grew a close relative: ‘Jalapeno.’ Another pod type that is more compact, and much hotter, its long, red peppers were very decorative in the pot. It produced lots of peppers, which is good because it is a main ingredient in salsa. The mature red fruits are smoked and called chipotle. Still another relative is ‘Thai Hot.’ An Asian compact and decorative pod variety, it has small, upright peppers with a lot of heat. This one is used fresh or dried in Thai and Asian recipes. The last one of these close relatives that we grew is Cowhorn, which is a long, bright red, pod type cayenne pepper that is said to produce about 10 pounds of peppers on each plant. The fruits curl up when they are ripe and look like a cow’s horns. It is used fresh in salads and salsas. The ‘Habanero’ pepper (Capsicum chinense) that we grew did not disappoint either. This is the hottest of the chili type peppers, with some cultivars described as fiercely hot. The plants produced their orange-red, bonnet-shaped pod peppers quite freely, and they are decorative and easy to grow in large patio pots. These peppers are used fresh in hot salsas and cooked recipes, and they are fermented for use in hot sauces. The last pepper plant that we grew in our pots was ‘Tabasco’ (Capsicum frutescens). This plant is reputed to be a perennial in warm climates, but of course not in Michigan. You could try to bring it indoors for the winter, but we had a good harvest from our plant and can’t see a good reason to give it houseplant status. This is the pepper that is used in Creole cooking, and for tabasco sauces. Many of the cultivars of these peppers are quite hot.
Salsa recipe We made a really tasty, hot salsa recipe that would be great for tailgate parties or cold weather celebrations: • 2 or 3 large tomatoes, chopped • 1 large sweet onion, chopped • 1 seeded and de-veined jalapeno pepper, finely chopped • 2 cloves of garlic put through a garlic press
‘Thai Hot’
‘Jalapeno’ (left) and Cowhorn (right). So many peppers on these plants! An abundant harvest. • 2 Tbsp chopped parsley or cilantro • 2 Tbsp lemon juice • 1 Tbsp olive oil • 1 Tbsp fresh oregano • Stir the ingredients together and heat until hot. Serve with corn chips.
Harvest time We planted six different pepper plants in two large pots and ended up with over 200 peppers in the fall. We needed to preserve them! At the end of the summer, before the
first frost, it was time to harvest the peppers for winter use. We strung the peppers with butcher-type string and hung the strings in an airy place to dry, out of the sun. The back of a garage is a good spot. We used rubber gloves and did the stringing on a warm, sunny day outdoors. Great care must be used so that you don’t get any of the juice on your skin or in your eyes. We used a darning needle with a big eye, put the string through the eye, and put the needle and string through the top of the pep-
per to make a hole in the pepper to encourage drying. If you string them by the green stem part, you risk having them fall off the string as they dry and shrink. With smaller peppers like the ‘Thai Hot’ variety, we simply cut the entire plant off at the soil with pruning shears, put a loop of string around the base and hung the entire plant to dry. P H OTO G R A P H S BY J E A N A N D R OX A N N E R I G G S
MichiganGardener.com | July/August 2016 | Michigan Gardener
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Summer Garden Sensations! Stringing harvested peppers to hang to dry. Gloves are a must when stringing these hot peppers. Preserving them in oil will only keep them in the refrigerator for 7 to 10 days unless you go through the canning process. If you use a pickling process with vinegar, they will keep in the refrigerator for up to 6 months without losing any quality. A simple method: stuff a pint or quart jar with peppers and cover them with white wine vinegar. Keep refrigerated and use as needed in recipes. We had such good luck with growing the hot peppers overall. They repel the garden critters so well that we plan to plant some of them amongst the tomatoes, which were a total loss. We hope that you try some of these pretty, useful, and tasty peppers in your garden. You will see why peppers are the “Herb of the Year”!
This string is complete.
Jean and Roxanne Riggs operated Sunshine Farm and Garden in Oakland County, MI and now enjoy retirement up north.
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Michigan Gardener | July/August 2016 | MichiganGardener.com
Arborvitae ‘Jantar’
Hydrangea L.A. Dreamin’
‘Jantar’ was found in Poland as a naturally-occurring branch mutation of the popular arborvitae ‘Emerald Green’ (‘Smaragd’). This bright yellow foliage plant (Thuja occidentalis ‘Jantar’) turns a warmer, amber tone during winter, hence the name ‘Jantar,’ an old Polish word for amber. With the same narrow upright habit as its popular green parent, this selection can be used as a colorful hedge or a brilliant focal point. Growth rate: Moderate (6-12 inches per year). Height in 10 years: 8 feet. Width: 3 feet. Light: Full sun to part sun. Zone: 4.
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This bigleaf hydrangea (Hydrangea macrophylla) was discovered right here in Michigan. It is the first macrophylla that is able to show blue, pink, mauve, and all colors in between on the same plant. As the plant ages and matures, it can bloom in all these shades—at the same time, on the same plant. Plus, it is a reblooming variety, meaning it can bloom on both new and old wood. Height: 5 feet. Width: 6 feet. Light: Morning sun to part shade. Zone: 5.
Bush Honeysuckle Kodiak Black With dark burgundy-black foliage, this native shrub (Diervilla rivularis) is both shade and drought tolerant, as well as deer-resistant. The foliage color is richer in sun or part shade, and is especially intense in spring and autumn. It sports clusters of yellow flowers, adding contrast in early summer. Plus, it is tough and easy to grow. Height: 3-4 feet. Width: 3-4 feet. Light: Sun to shade. Zone: 5. Iseli Nursery / Randall C. Smith Proven Winners Color Choice
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Michigan Gardener | July/August 2016 | MichiganGardener.com
Hydrangea Invincibelle Spirit II
continued from page 18
Proven Winners Color Choice Plants Nouveau
Parrotia Golden Belltower A reliably upright and columnar selection of parrotia, which is a choice small tree (Parrotia persica). Unlike other upright forms, Golden Belltower maintains its columnar form as it ages. With consistent gold and apricot fall color and its growing habit, this plant is excellent for urban or suburban yards. Estimated growth rate: Moderate to large (approximately 12 inches per year). Estimated height in 25 years: 25 feet. Width: 10-12 feet. Light: Full sun to part shade. Zone: 4.
The second generation of Invincibelle Spirit hydrangea (Hydrangea arborescens) is improved on many accounts: darker foliage, stiffer stems, and larger flowers that are a richer pink that ages to an attractive green. A strong rebloomer, this hydrangea flowers every year from midsummer to frost. One dollar from each Invincibelle Spirit II sold is donated to The Breast Cancer Research Foundation. Height: 3-4 feet. Width: 3-4 feet. Light: Morning sun to part shade. Zone: 3.
Smoke Bush ‘Old Fashioned’ Grow this smoke bush (Cotinus coggygria) for its three seasons of striking foliage. Purple-flushed new growth in spring; blue-gray, eucalyptus-like mature leaves in summer; and pink/orange/red fall color. This shrub’s relatively compact size makes it suitable for most gardens. Height: 6 feet. Width: 5 feet. Light: Full sun to part shade. Zone: 5. Summer
Fall Henny Kolster
Upshoot
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Rose of Sharon Summer Ruffle
HUGE PLANT SELECTION 1200+ varieties of perennials & hostas! • Patio Tropicals • Proven Winners • Bulk seed Herbs • Hanging baskets • Trees & shrubs • Miniature & fairy gardening plants & supplies
PIECHNIK’S Garden Gate 1095 N. Rochester Rd, Oakland, MI 48363 • 586-336-7200 PIECHNIK’S Greenhouse 13172 McCumsey Rd, Clio, MI 48420 • 810-686-9211
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This variegated rose of Sharon is aptly named, with blue green foliage and creamy white margins. Dark pink to lavender single flowers add to the show in summer. Its smaller size makes it a great feature plant for smaller gardens or patio containers. Discovered here in Michigan. Height: 3-4 feet. Width: 3-4 feet. Light: Full sun to part sun. Zone: 5.
• Annuals, perennials, trees & shrubs • Fairy garden plants & accessories • Pottery, Campania statuary, granite benches & birdbaths
4431 South Wagner Rd, Ann Arbor, MI 48103
734-663-7600 • turnersannarbor.com
Arborvitae Tiny Tower Tiny Tower was discovered as a sport of the well-known arborvitae ‘Green Giant’ (Thuja standishii x plicata). Tiny Tower is noted for its upright, more compact habit. The green foliage is fine to the touch and maintains a tight shape. Use this easy-to-grow conifer to create an evergreen screen, define the back of a border, or feature as an accent specimen in the landscape. Growth rate: Large (greater than 12 inches per year). Estimated height in 10 years: 18-20 feet. Width: 4-5 feet. Light: Full sun to part sun. Zone: 5.
Lake Orion Lawn Ornaments
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Concrete Benches • Tables • Fountains • Planters Saucers • Birdbaths • Statues • Religious Statues • Rails Animals • Ballisters • Oriental Lanterns • Pier Caps
62 W. Scripps Rd., Lake Orion • 248-693-8683 Corner of M-24 (Lapeer Rd) & Scripps Rd. - 4 mi N. of The Palace of Auburn Hills Monrovia
www.lakeorionconcrete.com • Call ahead for hours
A collection of stores and gardens to shop and visit. Please call ahead for hours, as they may vary from season to season.
Mt. Pleasant
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Addison Twp.
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Southgate Trenton Brownstown Twp. Grosse Ile
burton H Walker Farms & Greenhouse 5253 E. Atherton Rd., MI 48519 810-743-0260 www.walkersfarm.com
canton
Tecumseh Monroe
Cement City
La Salle
Canton Floral Gardens Clink Nurs Crimboli Nurs Wild Birds Unltd
cement city
H Denotes MG Advertiser almont American Tree
ann arbor H Abbott’s Nurs & Garden Ctr 2781 Scio Church Rd., MI 48103 734-665-8733 www.abbottsnursery.com H Downtown Home/Gard H English Gardens 155 N. Maple Rd, MI 48103 734-332-7900 www.EnglishGardens.com H HillTop Greenhse/Farms H Lodi Farms H The Produce Station
H Turner’s Greenhse & Garden Ctr 4431 South Wagner Rd., MI 48103 734-663-7600 www.turnersannarbor.com Wild Birds Unltd
auburn H Warmbier Farms 5300 Garfield Rd., MI 48611 989-662-7002 www.warmbierfarms.com
auburn hills Drake’s Landscp & Nurs H Haley Stone 3600 Lapeer Rd., MI 48326 248-276-9300 www.haleystone.net H State Crushing
bancroft
birmingham
Grand Oak Herb Farm
H Blossoms 33866 Woodward Ave, MI 48009 248-644-4411 www.blossomsbirmingham.com
bay city H Begick Nursery & Garden Ctr 5993 Westside Saginaw Rd., MI 48706 989-684-4210 www.begicknursery.com
belleville Banotai Greenhse Gardeners Choice H Pinter Flowerland H Zywicki Greenhse
berkley Garden Central
bloomfield hills Backyard Birds
Tiffany Florist
brighton H Beauchamp Landscp Supp Bordine’s Brighton Farmer’s Mkt Leppek Nurs H Meier Flowerland
brownstown twp Bruce’s Pond Shop Raupp Brothers Gard Ctr H Ruhlig Farms & Gard
H Hallson Gardens 14280 US-127, MI 49233 517-592-9450 www.perennialnursery.com
chelsea H Garden Mill 110 S. Main St., MI 48118 734-475-3539 www.thegardenmill.com The Potting Shed
chesterfield Van Thomme’s Greenhses
clarkston Bordine’s Country Oaks Landscp I Lowrie’s Landscp H Backyard Oasis Pond & Gard
MichiganGardener.com | July/August 2016 | Michigan Gardener
clinton twp H English Gardens 44850 Garfield Rd, MI 48038 586-286-6100 www.EnglishGardens.com Michigan Koi H Tropical Treasures
clio H Piechnik’s Grnhse & Garden Ctr 13172 McCumsey Rd, MI 48420 810-686-9211 www.cliogreenhouse.com
columbiaville Hilltop Barn
commerce twp Zoner’s Greenhse
davison H Wojo’s Gard Splendors 7360 E. Court St., MI 48423 810-658-9221 www.wojos.com
dearborn Fairlane Gardens
dearborn heights H English Gardens 22650 Ford Rd, MI 48127 313-278-4433 www.EnglishGardens.com
detroit H Detroit Farm and Garden 1759 21st St., MI 48216 313-655-2344 www.detroitfarmandgarden.com Eastern Market
dexter H Bloom! Gard Ctr 1885 Baker Rd., MI 48130 734-426-6600 www.bloom-gardens.com Dexter Mill H Fraleighs Landscape Nursery 8600 Jackson Rd., MI 48130 734-426-5067 www.fraleighs.com Guthrie Gardens
eastpointe H English Gardens 22501 Kelly Rd, MI 48021 586-771-4200 www.EnglishGardens.com Drew’s Garden
farmington hills Angelo’s Landscp Supp Farmer John’s Greenhse Loeffler Stone Ctr H Steinkopf Nurs
fenton Gerych’s Flowers/Gift H Heavenly Scent Herb Farm 13730 White Lake Rd., MI 48430 810-629-9208 www.heavenlyscentherbfarm.com
ferndale Casual Modes Home/Gard
flat rock Masserant’s Feed Store
flushing H Flushing Lawn & Garden Ctr 114 Terrace St., MI 48433 810-659-6241 www.unclelukes.com
fowlerville H Arrowhead Alpines
gladwin
livonia
H Stone Cottage Gardens 3740 West Willford Rd., MI 48624 989-426-2919 www.stonecottagegardens.com
Bushel Mart George’s Livonia Gard Superior Growers Supp Valley Nurs
grand blanc Bordine’s H The Weed Lady 9225 Fenton Rd., MI 48439 810-655-2723 www.theweedlady.com
grass lake H Designs by Judy Florist & Greenhse 3250 Wolf Lake Rd., MI 49240 517-522-5050 www.designsbyjudyflowers.com
macomb Altermatt Greenhses Boyka’s Greenhse Deneweth’s Garden Ctr H Elya’s Village Gardens H Landscape Source Joe Randazzo’s Nurs Olejnik Farms Wade Nurs Wiegand’s Nursery
manchester Wildtype Nurs
grosse pointe
H The Flower Market
H Le Fleur Décor 3442 Hadley Rd., MI 48440 586-495-4076 Find us on Facebook
hartland Deneweth’s Garden Ctr
haslett H Christian’s Greenhse H Van Atta’s Greenhse
highland Colasanti’s Produce/Plant Fragments Highland Garden Ctr H One Stop Landscp Supp Thornton Nurs
howell H Howell Farmer’s Mkt Dwntn Howell @ State & Clinton St. 517-546-3920 www.howell.org/19.html Penrose Nurs H Specialty Growers 4330 Golf Club Rd., MI 48843 517-546-7742 www.specialtygrowers.net Wilczewski Greenhses
imlay city H Earthly Arts Greenhse
jackson The Hobbit Place
lake orion H Lake Orion Lawn Orn H Orion Stone Depot H Wojo’s of Lake Orion 559 S. Lapeer Rd, MI 48362 248-690-7435 www.wojos.com
lansing Lansing Gard
lapeer H The Iron Barn
lasalle Fowler’s Gift Shop
lennon Krupps Novelty Shop
ray H Heritage Oaks Van’s Valley Greenhse H Pinter Flowerland Seven Mi Gard Ctr
Gilling’s Nurs
hadley
H Telly’s at Goldner Walsh 559 Orchard Lake Rd., MI 48341 248-724-2300 www.tellys.com
mason metamora
H Wild Birds Unltd 20381 Mack Ave., MI 48236 313-881-1410 www.grossepointewoods.wbu.com
Goldner Walsh Gard/Home
redford
H Westcroft Gardens 21803 West River Rd., MI 48138 734-676-2444 www.westcroftgardens.com
grosse pointe woods
Sparr’s Greenhse
pontiac
McLennan Nurs
grosse ile
Allemon’s Landscp Ctr Meldrum & Smith Nurs
H Rock Shoppe on Gotfredson 6275 Gotfredson, MI 48170 734-455-5560 www.rock-shoppe.com
milford Milford Gardens H The Pond Place
monroe new baltimore H Meldrum Bros Nurs
rochester Fogler’s Greenhse Sherwood Forest Gard Ctr
rochester hills H Auburn Oaks Garden Ctr 3820 West Auburn Rd, MI 48309 248-852-2310 www.auburnoaksnursery.com
new boston
Bordine’s
Gorham & Sons Nurs H Grass Roots Nurs Mums the Word
H Haley Stone 3975 S. Rochester Rd., MI 48307 248-852-5511 www.haleystone.net
new hudson H Milarch Nurs 28500 Haas Rd., MI 48165 248-437-2094 www.milarchnursery.com
Wild Birds Unltd
romulus
north branch
Block’s Stand/Greenhse H Kurtzhals’ Farms H Schoedel’s Nurs
H Campbell’s Greenhouses 4077 Burnside Rd., MI 48461 810-688-3587 www.campbellsgreenhouses.com
H Schwartz’s Greenhouse 30705 Sibley Rd., MI 48174 734-753-9269 www.schwartzgreenhouse.com
H Oldani Landscape Nurseries 2666 Tozer Rd., MI 48461 810-688-2363 www.oldanilandscapenurseries.com
northville Begonia Brothers Gardenviews H Willow Greenhouses
novi Glenda’s Gard Ctr Wild Birds Unltd
oak park Four Seasons Gard Ctr
oakland H Piechnik’s Garden Gate 1095 N. Rochester Rd., MI 48363 586-336-7200 www.cliogreenhouse.com
ortonville Country Oaks Landscp II H Wojo’s Greenhse 2570 Oakwood Rd., MI 48462 248-627-6498 www.wojos.com
owosso H Everlastings in Wildwood
oxford Candy Cane Xmas Trees Oxford Farm/Gard
plymouth Backyard Birds Graye’s Greenhse Lucas Nurs H Plymouth Nursery 9900 Ann Arbor Rd W, MI 48170 734-453-5500 www.plymouthnursery.net Plymouth Rock & Supp
roseville Dale’s Landscp Supp Flower Barn Nurs Sea World
royal oak Billings Lawn Equip H Button’s Rent-It 1126 S. Washington Ave., MI 48067 248-542-5835 www.buttonsrentit.com H English Gardens 4901 Coolidge Hwy, MI 48073 248-280-9500 www.EnglishGardens.com Wild Birds Unltd
saginaw H Abele Greenhouse & Garden Ctr 3500 Wadsworth Rd., MI 48601 989-752-5625 www.abelegreenhouse.com
saline Nature’s Garden Ctr H Saline Flowerland
shelby twp Diegel Greenhses Flower Barn Nurs H Hessell’s Greenhse Maeder Plant Farm Potteryland H Telly’s Greenhouse 4343 24 Mile, MI 48316 248-659-8555 www.tellys.com
southfield 3 DDD’s Stand Eagle Landscp/Supp Lavin’s Flower Land Main’s Landscp Supp
southgate H Ray Hunter Gard Ctr
st clair shores Greenhouse Growers Hall’s Nurs Soulliere Gard Ctr
sterling heights Decor Statuette H Eckert’s Greenhouse 34075 Ryan Rd., MI 48310 586-979-2409 www.eckertsgreenhouse.com Prime Landscp Supp
stockbridge Gee Farms
sylvan lake H AguaFina Gardens International 2629 Orchard Lake Rd., MI 48320 248-738-0500 www.aguafina.com H Detroit Garden Works 1794 Pontiac Dr., MI 48320 248-335-8089 www.detroitgardenworks.com
taylor H Beautiful Ponds & Gardens 20379 Ecorse, MI 48180 313-383-8653 www.skippysstuff.com D&L Garden Ctr Massab Acres H Panetta’s Landscp Supp
tecumseh Mitchell’s Lawn/Landscp
trenton Carefree Lawn Ctr
troy H Telly’s Greenhouse 3301 John R Rd., MI 48083 248-689-8735 www.tellys.com H Uncle Luke’s Feed Store 6691 Livernois Rd., MI 48098 248-879-9147 www.unclelukes.com
utica Stonescape Supp
walled lake H Suburban Landscp Supp
warren H Beste’s Lawn/Patio Supp Garden Ctr Nurs H Young’s Garden Mart
washington Landscp Direct Miller’s Big Red Greenhse H Rocks ‘n’ Roots H United Plant Ctr
waterford
Bushel Stop Joe Randazzo’s Nurs Merlino’s Bushel Ctr Panetta’s Landscp
white lake H Bogie Lake Greenhouses 1525 Bogie Lake Rd., MI 48383 248-887-5101 www.bogielakegreenhouses.com H Mulligan’s Landscp & Gard Ctr Sunshine Plants
whitmore lake H Alexander’s Greenhses
williamston H Christian’s Greenhse
wixom Angelo’s Landscp Supp Brainer’s Greenhse Milford Tree Farm
ypsilanti Coleman’s Farm Mkt Lucas Nurs Margolis Nurs Materials Unlimited H Sell Farms & Greenhouses 7200 Willis Rd., MI 48197 866-296-3090 www.sellfarmsandgreenhouses.com
Gardens to Visit ann arbor H Matthaei Botanical Gardens/ Nichols Arboretum 1800 North Dixboro Rd., MI 48105 734-647-7600 www.mbgna.umich.edu
bloomfield hills H Cranbrook Gardens 380 Lone Pine Rd., MI 48303 248-645-3147 housegardens.cranbrook.edu
clinton twp Tomlinson Arboretum
dearborn Arjay Miller Arboretum @ Ford World HQ Henry Ford Estate
detroit Anna S Whitcomb Conservtry
dryden Seven Ponds Nature Ctr
east lansing H MSU Horticultural Gardens W.J. Beal Botanical Gard
emmett H Sunny Fields Botanical Park 5444 Welch Rd., MI 48022 810-387-2765 www.visitsunnyfields.org
flint Applewood
grand rapids Frederik Meijer Gardens
Breen’s Landscp Supp Hoffman Nurs H Merrittscape Oakland County Market
grosse pointe shores
west bloomfield
midland
H English Gardens 6370 Orchard Lake Rd., MI 48322 248-851-7506 www.EnglishGardens.com Planterra
south lyon
westland
Hollow Oak Farm Nurs Mike’s Garden Stone Depot Landscp Supp H Tuthill Farms
H Barson’s Greenhse 6414 North Merriman Rd., MI 48185 734-421-5959 www.barsons.com
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Edsel & Eleanor Ford Hse
lansing Cooley Gardens Dahlia Hill Dow Gardens
novi Tollgate Education Ctr
royal oak Detroit Zoo
tipton H Hidden Lake Gardens 6214 Monroe Rd. (M-50), MI 49287 517-431-2060 www.hiddenlakegardens.msu.edu
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Michigan Gardener | July/August 2016 | MichiganGardener.com
Look for
Precipitation May 2016
Detroit Flint Lansing
NORMAL Monthly 3.38 3.08 3.36
ACTUAL Monthly 2.20 1.72 2.99
DEVIATION from Normal -1.18 -1.36 -0.37
2016 Year to Date: Jan 1 - May 31
Detroit Flint Lansing
NORMAL Yr. to Date 12.54 10.99 11.57
ACTUAL Yr. to Date 12.73 12.23 12.91
DEVIATION from Normal +0.19 +1.24 +1.34
NORMAL
ACTUAL Monthly 5.53 3.40 3.77
Monthly 3.38 3.08 3.36
DEVIATION from Normal +2.15 +0.32 +0.41
2015 Year to Date: Jan 1 - May 31
NORMAL
Yr. to Date 12.54 10.99 11.57
ACTUAL Yr. to Date 11.74 8.12 8.05
DEVIATION from Normal -0.80 -2.87 -3.52
Temperature May 2016
May 2015
Detroit Flint Lansing
NORMAL Avg. High 69.9 68.5 68.8
ACTUAL Avg. High 71.1 73.2 69.8
DEVIATION from Normal +1.2 +4.7 +1.0
NORMAL vg. High A 69.9 68.5 68.8
ACTUAL Avg. High 75.1 74.5 71.9
DEVIATION from Normal +5.2 +6.0 +3.1
Detroit Flint Lansing
NORMAL Avg. Low 49.4 45.3 46.7
ACTUAL Avg. Low 51.0 48.4 47.7
DEVIATION from Normal +1.6 +3.1 +1.0
NORMAL Avg. Low 49.4 45.3 46.7
ACTUAL Avg. Low 54.0 51.3 50.5
DEVIATION from Normal +4.6 +6.0 +3.8
Data courtesy National Weather Service
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Advertiser Index Abbott’s Landscape Nursery................... 25 Aguafina Gardens International................6 Assoc. of Professional Gardeners.......................................................... 27 Auburn Oaks Gard Ctr...................................11 Barson’s Greenhouse.................................... 15 Bloom! Garden Ctr............................................7 Blossoms.............................................................19 Bogie Lake Greenhouses............................. 17 Bonide..................................Inside Back Cover Contender’s Tree/Lawn Specialists.........................Inside Front Cover Detroit Garden Works....................................9 Eckert’s Greenhouse..................................... 17
The print edition of Michigan Gardener is still your exclusive source for gardener profiles, how-to articles, features, Plant Focus and much more.
English Gardens......................................Page 3 The Flower Market........................................ 25 Fraleigh’s Landscape Nursery.................. 12 The Garden Company....................................9 The Garden Mill................................................11 Garden Rhythms...............................................7 A Garden Space.............................................. 27 Haley Stone Supply..........................................7 Heritage Oaks....................................................11 Hidden Lake Gardens................................... 15 Howell Farmer’s Market............................. 27 Lake Orion Lawn Ornaments....................21 Merrittscape.....................................................19 Milarch Nursery................................................8 Oakland Community College.....................9 Orion Stone Depot......................................... 13 Piechnik’s Greenhouse.................................21
Clio H Piechnik’s Greenhse Commerce Twp Almont • Zoner’s Greenhse • American Tree Davison Ann Arbor H Wojo’s Garden • Dixboro General Splendors Store H Matthaei Botanical Dearborn Gard • Fairlane Gard H Dwntn Home & Gard • Ace Hardware • Wild Birds Unltd Dearborn Hts H The Produce Station H English Gardens • Ace Barnes Hdwe Detroit (Washtenaw Ave) H Turner’s Greenhse/ H Detroit Farm and Gard Gard Ctr • Detroit Gard Ctr H Lodi Farms Dexter H Abbott’s Landscp H Fraleigh’s Nurs Nurs H Bloom! Gard Ctr • Ace Barnes Hdwe • Dexter Mill (West Stadium) • Earth Art H English Gardens • Larry’s Mower Shop Eastpointe H HillTop H English Gardens Greenhse & Farms • Drew’s Garden Auburn Hills Farmington • Drake’s • Alexander True Landscp & Nurs Value Hardware H State Crushing Farmington Hills • Ace Hardware H Steinkopf Nurs H Oakland • Saxton’s Flower Ctr Community College • Ace Hardware H Haley Stone • Weingartz Belleville Fenton H Zywicki Greenhse • Gerych’s • Banotai Greenhse H Heavenly Scent H Pinter Flowerland Herb Farm Berkley Ferndale • Garden Central • Casual Modes Home & Gard Beverly Hills • Ace Hardware Flushing H Flushing Lawn & Birmingham Gard Ctr H Blossoms Fostoria Brighton H The Iron Barn H Meier Flowerland • Leppek Nurs Fowlerville H Beauchamp H Arrowhead Alpines Landscp Supp Gladwin Brownstown Twp H Stone Cottage H Ruhlig Farms & Gard Gardens • Raupp Bros Grand Blanc Landscp Supp H The Weed Lady Canton Grand Rapids • Wild Birds Unltd • Meijer Gardens • Canton Floral Grosse Ile Gardens H Westcroft Gardens • Crimboli Nurs • Clink Landscp & Nurs Grosse Pointe • Allemon’s Landscp Chelsea Ctr H The Garden Mill • Meldrum & Smith • The Potting Shed Nurs • Heim Gardens & Grosse Pointe Shores Florist • Edsel & Eleanor Ford Chesterfield House • Van Thomme’s Grosse Pointe Woods Greenhses H Wild Birds Unltd Clarkston Hadley • The Birdfeeder H Le Fleur Décor • Lowrie’s Landscp Haslett H The Pond Source H Van Atta’s Greenhse • Ace Hardware (Sashabaw) Highland • Weingartz • Thornton Nurs • Country Oaks • Colasanti’s Produce Landscp Supp I & Plants H One Stop Landscp Clawson Supp • Ace Hardware • Five Star Ace HardClinton Twp ware • MSU Extension• Fragments Macomb Cty • Ace Hardware H English Gardens H Tropical Treasures • Michigan Koi Allen Park • Ace Hardware
May 2015
Plymouth Nursery..........................................19 The Pond Place/Beauchamp......................5 Rocks ‘n’ Roots.................................................10 Schuman Landscape Lighting................... 12 Sell Farms & Greenhouses...........................6 Specialty Growers............................................8 State Crushing..................................................19 Stone Cottage Gardens............................... 27 Telly’s Greenhouse...........................................4 Tropical Treasures.......................................... 13 Turner’s Landscp & Gard Ctr.....................21 Uncle Luke’s Feed Store............................... 12 Van Atta’s Greenhouse................................ 15 Warmbier Farms............................................. 12 The Weed Lady................................................ 15 Wojo’s..................................................................10
at these fine locations: Howell H Specialty Growers • Wilczewski Greenhses H Howell Farmer’s Mkt
• Lucas Nurs • Sparr’s Greenhse • Sideways • Plymouth Rock & Supp Pontiac Imlay City • Goldner Walsh H Earthly Arts Gard/Home Keego Harbor • Creative Brick Paving Ray H Heritage Oaks Lake Orion Design H Orion Stone Depot Redford H Lake Orion Lawn H Pinter Flowerland Ornaments H Wojo’s of Lake Orion • Seven Mi Gard Ctr Rochester Livonia • Casual Concepts • Valley Nurs • Fogler’s Greenhse • George’s • Sherwood Forest Livonia Gard Gard Ctr • Ace Hardware (6 Mi/Newburgh) Rochester Hills • Ace Hardware (5 H Haley Stone Mi/Middlebelt) • Wild Birds Unltd • Superior Growers • Ace Hardware Supp H Auburn Oaks Gard • Bushel Mart Ctr Macomb Romulus • Ace Hardware H Kurtzhal’s Farms • Boyka’s Greenhse H Schwartz’s Grnhse • Olejnik Farms H Schoedel’s Nurs • Altermatt’s Roseville Greenhse • Dale’s Landscp Supp H Landscape Source • Flower Barn Nurs H Elya’s Village Gard Sea World Midland Royal Oak • Dow Gardens H English Gardens H Button’s Rent It Milford • La Roche H The Pond Place • Ace Hardware • Peter’s True Value • Frentz & Sons Hardware Hardware • Ace Hardware • Billings Lawn Equip Monroe • Wild Birds Unltd H The Flower Market • Manus New Baltimore Power Mowers H Meldrum Bros Nurs Saginaw New Boston H Abele Greenhse & • Gorham & Sons Gard Ctr Nurs Salem Twp H Grass Roots Nurs H Willow Greenhses • Mums the Word Saline New Hudson • Nature’s Gard Ctr H Milarch Nurs H Saline Flowerland North Branch • Junga’s Ace Hdwe H Campbell’s Shelby Twp Greenhses H Telly’s Greenhse H Oldani Landscp H Hessell’s Greenhses Nurs • Diegel Greenhses Northville • Potteryland • Gardenviews • Maeder Plant Farm • Begonia Bros • Flower Barn Nurs Novi South Lyon • Glenda’s Gard Ctr • Stone Depot • Ace Hardware Landscp Supp • Wild Birds Unltd • Mike’s Garden • Ace Hardware Oak Park • Hollow Oak Farm • Four Seasons Gard Nurs Ctr • Ace Hardware Southfield • Eagle Landscp & Supp Oakland • Lavin’s Flower Land H Piechnik’s Garden • 3 DDD’s Stand Gate • Main’s Landscp Supp Ortonville Southgate H Wojo’s Greenhse H Ray Hunter Gard Ctr • Country Oaks Landscp Supp II St Clair Shores • Ace Hardware Owosso (Harper/13 Mi) H Everlastings in the • Circare Wildwood • Hall’s Nurs Pinckney • Soulliere Gard Ctr • Bock’s General Store • Greenhouse Growers & Gard Ctr Plymouth H Rock Shoppe H Plymouth Nurs
Sterling Hts • Decor Statuette • Prime Landscp Supp H Eckert’s Greenhse Stockbridge • Gee Farms Sylvan Lake H Detroit Garden Works H AguaFina Gardens Interntl Taylor H Beautiful Ponds & Gard • D&L Garden Ctr • Massab Acres H Panetta’s Landscp Supp Trenton • Keck Hardware • Carefree Lawn Ctr • Ace Hardware Troy H Telly’s Greenhse H Uncle Luke’s Feed Store • The Home & Gard Shop Utica • Stonescape Supp • Weingartz Warren • Greco’s Nurs H Young’s Garden Mart • Garden Center Nurs H Beste’s Lawn & Patio Washington H United Plant Ctr H Rocks ‘n’ Roots • Landscape Direct • Miller’s Big Red Greenhse Waterford • Breen’s Landscp Supp • Jacobsen’s Flowers H Merrittscape • Ace Hardware West Bloomfield • ACE Hardware • Planterra H English Gardens • Whole Foods Westland H Barsons Greenhses • Panetta’s Landscp Supp • Merlino’s Bushel Ctr • Ace Hardware • Bushel Stop • Joe Randazzo’s Nurs White Lake • Sunshine Plants H Bogie Lake Greenhse H Mulligan’s Gard Ctr Whitmore Lake H Alexander’s Greenhses Williamston H Christian’s Greenhse Wixom • Angelo’s Landscp Supp • Brainer’s Greenhse Ypsilanti • Lucas Nurs • Margolis Nurs • Materials Unlimited • Michigan Greenscape Supp • Schmidt’s Antiques H Sell Farms & Greenhse • Coleman’s Farm Mkt
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Over 25 varieties of Hydrangeas, all reliable bloomers: Bobo, Strawberry Sundae, Little Quickfire, Incrediball, Munchkin, Gatsby Moon, and many more!
Outstanding collection
July H Brenda’s Butterfly Habitat Wed, Jul 6, 10am-4pm, Wed-Sun, Westland. At Barson’s Greenhouse. Come see the butterfly life cycle & native host & nectar plants. www.Barsons.com. Grandma Says: A Small Standard Flower Show Fri, Jul 8, 3-5pm & Sat, Jul 9, 9am-4pm, Livonia. By Livonia GC at Livonia’s Bennett/Civic Center Library. FREE. Flower arrangements & horticulture exhibit. lgcpresident@yahoo.com. H Hydrangeas 101 Fri, Jul 8, 5pm, Plymouth. At Plymouth Nursery. Learn about different varieties, care & pruning, tips & tricks. www.plymouthnursery.net. H Annual Daylily Dig Sat, Jul 9, 9am-6pm, Waterford. At Merritt Home Design. You pick ‘em, we dig ‘em. 248-681-7955, www.merritthomedesigns.com Wyandotte 22nd Street Garden Walk Sat, Jul 9, 10am-3pm, Wyandotte. $5. 734-281-6504. Daylily Show Sat, Jul 9, 11am-5pm, Grand Rapids. At Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. Discover an amazing variety of daylily flowers. 616-957-1580, www.meijergardens.org. H Hydrangeas 101 Sat, Jul 9, 1pm, Plymouth. At Plymouth Nursery. Learn about different varieties, care & pruning, tips & tricks. www.plymouthnursery.net. Bedford Flower & Garden Club 20th Annual Garden Tour Sat, Jul 9, 9am-2pm, Temperance. By Bedford Flower & Garden Club at Bedford Public Library & 6 private gardens. $8. Proceeds benefit library & community projects. grandmax3@bex.net. Historic Marshall’s 26th Annual Welcome to My Garden Tour Sat, Jul 9, 10am-4pm, Marshall. By Marshall Area Garden Club at 6 area gardens. Garden market next to the Fairgrounds. 800-877-5163, www.MarshallAreaGardenClub.org. H 18th Annual LACASA’s Garden Tour Weekend Sat, Jul 9, & Sun, Jul 10, 9am-4pm, Livingston County. By LACASA at area gardens. $20. Scavenger hunt, raffles & more. Proceeds benefit abused children and victims of violence. Advance tickets: www.lacasacenter.org. Celebration of Gardens & Art Sat, Jul 9, 10am-4pm, Bruce Twp. By Friends of the Romeo District Library at Tapper Garden. How-to demos, music, & more. www.romeodistrictlibrary.org/friends. Fenton Open Gate Garden Club Annual Summer Garden Tour Sun, Jul 10, 10am-5pm, Fenton. By Fenton Open Gate Garden Club at 7 area gardens. $10. Day of tickets at A.J. Phillips Fenton Museum. www.OpenGateGardenClubGardenTour.com.
13th Annual Tea Thyme in the Garden Sun, Jul 10, By Lapeer County Master Gardener Association at The Display Garden on Suncrest. Supports the Display Garden, a Master Gardener Volunteer Project. 810-667-1994. 10th Belleville Area Garden Walk: Dally Down the Alley Sun, Jul 10, 11am-4pm, Belleville. By Belleville Area District Library at Roland Street Alley. $12. Visit 6 adjacent private gardens by dallying down the communal alley. 734-699-3291. H Workshop: Create a Hypertufa Succulent Container Mon, Jul 11, 10am, Gladwin. At Stone Cottage Gardens. You will create a hypertufa succulent container. Registration limited. Call: 989-426-2919. Sunrise Side Master Gardener Meetings Tue, Jul 12, Iosco County. By Sunrise Side Master Gardeners at Iosco County Medical Care Facility. Monthly educational meetings for members & visiting Master Gardeners. www.ssmga.com. H Garden Delight Tours Tue, Jul 12, 11am-1pm, Fenton. At Heavenly Scent Herb Farm. $29.75. 1 hour tour followed by a luncheon. Enjoy 50% off all plants. www.heavenlyscentherbfarm.com. 23rd Annual Northville Garden Walk Wed, Jul 13, Northville. By Country Garden Club of Northville at 6 private gardens. $12. Tickets available at Gardenviews or Mill Race Historical Village day of. Vendor market. 248-478-3391, www.cgcnv.org. 42nd Annual Troy Garden Walk: Poetic Gardens Wed, Jul 13, 9:30am-3pm & 5pm-8:30pm, Troy. By Troy Garden Club at 7 private gardens & Troy Historic Village. $10. www.TroyGardenClubMI.com, 248-952-5938. H Farm to Table Class Wed, Jul 13, 6-7:30pm, Fenton. At Heavenly Scent Herb Farm. $28.75. Learn to utilize fresh herbs & veggies from the farm. www.HeavenlyScentHerbFarm.com, 810-629-9208. H Cranbrook House Tour & Lunch Wed, Jul 13, 1pm, Bloomfield Hills. At Cranbrook House & Gardens. Tour & High Tea lunch. www.HouseGardens.Cranbrook.edu, 248-645-3149. Charlevoix: Where Magic Happens Garden Walk Wed, Jul 13, Charlevoix. By Charlevoix Area Garden Club at 5 private gardens & Charlevoix Historical Society’s Depot Museum $15. 231-547-2119, charlevoixareagardenclub.org. Viburnums Thu, Jul 14, 6:30-7:30pm, Clinton Twp. By MCMGA at MSUE Assembly Room. $10. Cheryl English educates us on this diverse genus of gardenworthy shrubs. Quarterly meeting to follow. H Hydrangeas 101 Fri, Jul 15, 5pm, Plymouth. At Plymouth Nursery. Learn about different varieties, care & pruning, tips & tricks. www.plymouthnursery.net. continued on page 26
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continued from page 25 Battle Creek Garden Tour Sat, Jul 16, 10am-4pm, Battle Creek. By Leila Arboretum Society at 6 private gardens. $12. lasgarden.org. Hybrid Lily Show Sat, Jul 16, 9-1pm, Southfield. By Michigan Regional Lily Society at a private home. Enter your hybrid lily stems in this judged competition. Judging from 11am-1:00pm. www.mrls.org. H Hydrangeas 101 Sat, Jul 16, 10am, all locations. At English Gardens. FREE. More than 75 varieties in our collection. www.EnglishGardens.com. Shelby Gardeners Club Bi-Annual Garden Walk Sat, Jul 16, 10am-4pm, Shelby. By Shelby Gardeners Club. Tickets: Shelby Pubic Library & the Shelby Parks & Recreation Office. 586-786-0816, shelbygardeners@gmail.com. Westacres Garden Tour Sat, Jul 16, 10am-3pm, West Bloomfield. $15. Share in the rich history of Westacres. Golf cart transportation provided, or you may walk or bike. Rain date 7/17. 248568-9886. H Annual Daylily Dig Sat, Jul 16, 9am-6pm, Waterford. At Merritt Home Design. You pick ‘em, we dig ‘em. 248-681-7955, www.merritthomedesigns.com Master Gardeners of St Clair County Annual Garden Tour Sat, Jul 16, 10am-4pm, Marysville. By Master Gardeners of St Clair County at 9 diverse gardens. $15. 586-727-2563, gina92pj@comcast.net. H Hydrangeas 101 Sat, Jul 16, 1pm, Plymouth. At Plymouth Nursery. Learn about different varieties, care & pruning, tips & tricks. www.plymouthnursery.net. 2016 MKPC Pond & Water Garden Tour Sat, Jul 16, 10am-5pm, Northville. By Michigan Koi & Pond Club. Starting at The Village Workshop. Tour at your own pace. Rain or shine. www.mkpc-se.com. H The Garden Cruise Sun, Jul 17, 9am-4:30pm, Metro Detroit. By Detroit Garden Works & The Greening of Detroit. Tour only: $35/ person, tour & cocktail reception: $50/person. 248-335-8089. www.thegardencruise.org. Native Plants & Beneficial Insects Tue, Jul 19, 6:30-8:30pm, Novi. At MSU Tollgate Conf. Ctr. $25. http://tollgate.msu.edu/events. 11th Annual Clarkston Garden Walk Wed, Jul 20, Noon-8pm, Clarkston. By Clarkston Garden Club at 6 private gardens. $18. Artisan Market 11am-5pm at Independence Dist. Library. 248-396-6986, www.ClarkstonGardenClub.org.
H Container Fairy Garden Workshop Wed, Jul 20, 7pm, all locations. At Wojo’s. $30. All ages. Come create your very own unique fairy garden at this make & take workshop. Register: www.wojos.com. H Cranbrook House Tour & Lunch Wed, Jul 20, 11am, Bloomfield Hills. At Cranbrook House & Gardens. Tour & High Tea Lunch. www.HouseGardens.Cranbrook.edu, 248-645-3149. H Pond & Waterfall Design Thu, Jul 21, 10am-Noon, Milford. At The Pond Place. FREE. Workshop will address the key issues associated with designing & building your own pond. Register: www.PondPlace.com. 34th Annual Traverse City Garden Walk Thu, Jul 21, 11am-6pm, Traverse City. The Friendly Garden Club of Traverse City at 8 gardens in the Historic Slab Town District. $10. www.TheFriendlyGardenClub.org. H Summer Combo Pot Thu, Jul 21, 6pm, Meridian Charter Twp. At VanAtta’s. $35. www.vanattas.com. H Garden Art in the Garden Sat, Jul 23, 10am-4pm, Gladwin. At Stone Cottage Gardens. Enjoy the many vendors who have created art for your garden. 989-426-2919. Off-Scape Daylily Show & Plant Sale Sat, Jul 23, 9am-2:30pm, Shelby Twp. By Southern MI Daylily Society at Telly’s. FREE. Learn about the Daylily and vote for your favorites. Daylilies available for purchase. www.midaylilysociety.com. H Beach Party Fairy Garden Sat, Jul 23, 2-4pm, Dexter. At Bloom! Gardens. $20. All Ages. 734-426-6600. LotusGardenscapes.com. H Annual Daylily Dig Sat, Jul 23, 9am-6pm, Waterford. At Merritt Home Design. You pick ‘em, we dig ‘em. 248-681-7955, www.merritthomedesigns.com Harrison Township: Inspirations Garden Tour Sat, Jul 23, 9am-4pm, Harrison Twp. By Harrison Township Beautification Commission at 8 private gardens. $15. Self guided tour, pick up maps at Tucker Senior Center. 586-242-3868. H Daylily Dig Sat, Jul 23, 9am-5pm, Howell. At Specialty Growers. Walk the field & choose your daylilies. FREE presentation at 1pm. 517-546-7742. H Summer Garden Party Sun, Jul 24, 1-5pm, Gladwin. At Stone Cottage Gardens. A celebration of 20 years in the garden. Wander the gardens & enjoy live music, artists & refreshments. 989-426-2919. Sunday Afternoon Naturalists: Wildflowers Sun, Jul 24, 3:15-4:15pm, Ann Arbor. At Leslie Science & Nature Ctr. We will be searching out the summer wildflowers that are blooming. Register: 734-997-1553.
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Specializing in Hybrid Daylilies
Summer Garden Walk Sun, Jul 24, 1-4pm, Huntington Woods. By Seed & Sod Garden Club. Begin at the library on Scotia Rd. See how home gardens change & mature over time. sbrown8881@gmail.com. Women’s Center of Greater Lansing Garden Tour Sun, Jul 24, 1-6pm, Lansing. By Women’s Center of Greater Lansing at 7 area gardens. $10. Various designs, door prizes & raffles. 517-372-9163. www.WomensCenterOfGreaterLansing.org. H Outdoor Garden Tea Party Tue, Jul 26, 11:30am-1:30pm, Fenton. At Heavenly Scent Herb Farm. $31.75. www.heavenlyscentherbfarm.com. A Family Evening in the Garden Wed, Jul 27, 6:30pm, Rochester Hills. By Rochester GC at Rochester Hills Museum at Van Hoosen Farm Calf Barn. FREE. Presentation: Gardening with Pollinators. 586-337-0897.
August H Outdoor Garden Tea Party Tue, Aug 2, 11:30am-1:30pm, Fenton. At Heavenly Scent Herb Farm. $31.75. www.heavenlyscentherbfarm.com. Tree Identification Thu, Aug 4, 6:30-8:30pm, Novi. At MSU Tollgate Conf. Ctr. $25. http://tollgate.msu.edu/events. Yardeners Annual Garden Tour Sat, Aug 6, 9am-3pm, St. Clair Shores. By Yardeners at lovely area gardens. $5. Begin at Selinsky-Green Farmhouse Museum. Master Gardeners on hand to answer questions. scsyardeners@gmail.com. H MSU Garden Day Sat, Aug 6, 8am-4:15pm, East Lansing. At MSU. $86 until 7/25. Select your favorite garden-themed workshops & enjoy two keynote presentations by David Culp. http://www.hrt.msu.edu. Farmington Garden Walk Sat, Aug 6, 10am-4pm, Farmington. At Governor Warner Mansion & 7 private gardens. $10. Tickets available at Steinkopf Nursery. fgc1932@gmail.com, 248-626-6322. H APG Tour of MSU Gardens Tue, Aug 9, 4-7pm, East Lansing. By APG at MSU Horticulture Gardens. $15. www.associationofprofessionalgardeners.org. Iris Club of Southeast Michigan’s Annual Iris Sale Sat, Aug 13, 7am-1pm or until sold out, Royal Oak. By Iris Club of SE Michigan at Royal Oak Farmer’s Market. Great selection at reasonable prices. Bringing Conservation to Cities Tue, Aug 16, 6:30-8:30pm, Novi. At MSU Tollgate Conf. Ctr. $25. http://tollgate.msu.edu/events. H Van Atta’s Class Thu, Aug 18, 6pm, Meridian Twp. At VanAtta’s. Topic to be determined; please visit www.vanattas.com/news-events. H Pond & Waterfall Design Thu, Aug 18, 10am-Noon, Milford. At The Pond Place. FREE. Workshop will address the key issues associated with designing & building your own pond. Register: www.PondPlace.com. H 3rd Annual Downriver TomatoFest Sat, Aug 20, 10am-1pm, Southgate. At Ray Hunter Florist & Garden. Information, tastings & contests for Largest Tomato & Best Tasting Tomato. Register for contests by Noon. 734-284-2500. 6th Annual Summer Garden Tour Sat, Aug 20, Detroit. At Black Cat Pottery. Register: www.blackcatpottery.com. Master Gardener Program - Cadillac Thu, Aug 25, Thursdays through Dec 8, 5:30-9:30pm, Cadillac. By MSU Extension at Wexford-Missaukee ISD. 14-session curriculum provides horticulture training. Register: 989-539-7805. H 5th MKPC Koi Show & Pond Club Exhibit Fri, Aug 26, 3-5pm; Sat, Aug 27, 9am-4pm; and Sun, Aug 28, 10am-Noon, Milford. At The Pond Place.
Koi competition & vendor show. www.mkpc-se.com, www.pondplace.com, 248-889-8400. Ann Arbor Bonsai Society Show Sat, Aug 27, 10am-4:30pm, Ann Arbor. At Matthaei Botanical Gardens. www.annarborbonsaisociety.org. Dahlia Show Sat, Aug 27, Noon-5pm, Grand Rapids. At Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. Marvel at the variety of colors, shapes & sizes of dahlia flowers. 616-957-1580, www.meijergardens.org.
• 850 varieties of bare-root daylilies • Hundreds of potted perennials for sun & shade • Herbs, Vines, Ferns & Shrubs GOING “UP NORTH” FOR THE WEEKEND? • American-made tools Stop by to see us, and check • Garden art & supplies the Michigan Gardener calendar for our website • Morgan’s Dairy Doo compost for special events.
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Stone Cottage Gardens
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MichiganGardener.com | July/August 2016 | Michigan Gardener
3740 Willford Rd. Gladwin, MI • 989-426-2919
StoneCottageGardens.com • Open May 2-Oct. 8 M-F 10-6 Sat 9-4 or by chance or appt.
September Native Shrubs & Trees Thu, Sep 8, 6:30-8:30pm, Novi. At MSU Tollgate Conf. Ctr. $25. http://tollgate.msu.edu/events. Southeast Michigan Dahlia Show Sat, Sep 10, Mall hours, West Bloomfield. By SE MI Dahlia Society at Orchard Mall. FREE. Hundreds of Dahlias present a beautiful exhibit. Ends 3pm Sun. judy892@wowway.com. H Pond & Waterfall Design Thu, Sep 1 5, 10am-Noon, Milford. At The Pond Place. FREE. Workshop will address the key issues associated with designing & building your own pond. Register: www.PondPlace.com. H Cornhusk Wreath Thu, Sep 15, 6pm, Meridian Twp. At VanAtta’s. $30. www.vanattas.com/news-events. H The Art of Bonsai Show Sun, Sep 18, 11am-4pm, Tipton. At Hidden Lake Gardens. Displays, art exhibits, vendors & more. www.HiddenLakeGardens.msu.edu. Honey Bees & Beekeeping Thu, Sep 22, 6:30-8:30pm, Novi. At MSU Tollgate Conf. Ctr. $25. http://tollgate.msu.edu/events. History & Culture of Japanese Orchids Fri, Sep 23, 10am, Rochester. By The Meadow Brook Garden Club at Meadow Brook Hall. $5. Learn what makes Japanese orchids stand out in a crowd. 248‑364‑6210. Macomb County Smart Gardening Conference Sat, Sep 24, 9am-3:30pm, Macomb County. By Macomb County MGA. “Growing for the Future,” with a focus on pollinators. $60 before 8/13, $75 after. Register by 8/31. www.macombcountymga.com. Growing with Master Gardeners Conference Sat, Sep 24, Dearborn. By MGAWC at University Of Michigan-Dearborn. All-day educational program for environmentalists & gardeners of all levels. www.mgawc.org. H Algae & Weed Control for Large Earthen Bottom Ponds Sat, Sep 24, Noon-1pm, Milford. At The Pond Place. FREE. Workshop will focus on the methods of controlling algae in small lakes & large ponds. Register: www.PondPlace.com. Yardeners Fall Plant Exchange Sat, Sep 24, 9-11am, St Clair Shores. By Yardeners at St. Clair Shores Library. Bag, tag & drag your offerings to trade or give away. No money involved. scsyardeners@gmail.com.
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October Dahlias, End of Season Care Sat, Oct 8, 3-5pm, Troy. By SE MI Dahlia Society at Telly’s Greenhouse. Digging, dividing & storing dahlia tubers for winter. judy892@wowway.com. Repurposing for Yard Art Mon, Oct 17, 7pm, St Clair Shores. By Yardeners at St Clair Shores Public Library. Get inspiration, hints, and ideas. scsyardeners@gmail.com. H Pumpkin & Gourd Swag Thu, Oct 20, 6pm, Meridian Twp. At VanAtta’s. $30. www.vanattas.com/news-events. Fundamentals of Growing & Caring for Dahlias Fri, Oct 28, 10am, Rochester. By Meadow Brook Garden Club at Meadow Brook Hall. $5. Guest speaker, Dr. Keith Berven. 248‑364‑6210, www.meadowbrookhall.org.
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Michigan Gardener | July/August 2016 | MichiganGardener.com
Friendly Giants
These tall, native perennials are valuable to pollinators and make quite a statement in the garden
W
hen I moved into my home on rium fistulosum) was my first giant and it still the east side of Detroit over 20 anchors the largest of my backyard garden years ago, the landscape was beds. A favorite with pollinators both avian typical of many of the houses in the neighborand invertebrate, the large panicles bear longhood, including the requisite six yews across lasting flowers that are especially favored by the front foundation that were surely planted swallowtail butterfly species. The first time I back in 1948 when it was built. There was a lot ever saw a ruby-throated hummingbird was of turf (the only thing other than those yews on this plant in a client’s garden. Each year, in front) as well as “ditch lilies,” variegated the woody crown gets a bit larger, sending bishop’s weed (which I continue to fight on up more and more stems. I had a huge, foura sporadic basis), a cotoneaster bent on world foot (both diameter and height) grow-ring domination, the most common of welded just for this plant, since the common lilacs, and something I still stems tended to lean, shading out believe was a live Christmas tree other plants. It looks a bit incongruplanted way too close to the back ous early in the season, but by July fence line. In the ensuing 20-plus or August, it has disappeared from years, all of it is gone, with the exsight. Just cut the stems down in ception of a tall yew (over 20 feet) spring and, if you wish, remove brothat I pruned up into a tree, under ken stems throughout the season to which I found not only my third cat keep a tidier appearance. but a bowling ball as well. Cheryl M. Tall coreopsis I replaced it all with a collection English Many of us are already familiar of traditional garden plants and, with tickseed (Coreopsis)—if only increasingly, a wide-ranging selecbecause of the many cultivars that have come tion of native species. Some of my favorites out recently that promised hardiness they ofare those I think of as my “friendly giants”— ten failed to deliver. Tall coreopsis (C. tripteris) plants that, at least in my yard, grow six feet is not like those plants, in more ways than one. tall or more. Each year, all of these species die Whereas most coreopsis species are 1 to 3 feet back hard for the winter and all new growth high, tall coreopsis is a commanding 3 to 6 feet emerges from the roots come spring. I leave a (often more in my yard). The thick, straight few stems intact from each of them to illusstems bear three-lobed opposite leaves and trate that, although they may appear rather clusters of delicate flowers on the top two feet modest early in the season, they will handily or more—with notably dark centers, unlike cast most everything in the shade by its end. most of its coreopsis relatives. This is a great When I started converting my garden over plant for the back of the border, massed with to more and more natives, part of my agenda other giants. Like other coreopsis species, was to embrace the native plants for what it is easy care and can seed prolifically. The they are instead of going the way of “well-becommon name of “tickseed” comes from the haved” cultivars. (I have a philosophical obhooked seeds that catch rides on passersby to jection to anything “well-behaved,” as most aid in seed dispersal, a boon for native birds folks who know me know all too well.) I figand small mammals. Just pull any unwanted ured that, if the species could work, I’d grow plants as soon as you see them—or give them it. If not, I’d give it a pass, but not without at to a friend to spread the joy! least trying. So no ‘Little Joe Pye Weed’ or ‘Miss Manners’ for me; give me the real deal Cutleaf coneflower and I’d see what I could do with it. Another familiar genus (Rudbeckia) is Joe Pye weed home to green-headed or cutleaf coneflower Hollow-stemmed Joe Pye weed (Eupato(Rudbeckia laciniata), which easily attains 7 to
Joe Pye weed (Eupatorium fistulosum)
Tall coreopsis (Coreopsis tripteris)
MichiganGardener.com | July/August 2016 | Michigan Gardener
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Cutleaf coneflower (Rudbeckia laciniata)
Missouri ironweed (Vernonia missurica) 8 feet of height in my garden. I can’t help but be astonished by the cutleaf coneflower scale; I know it’s visible to anyone looking for a little nectar. The common names come from the green disk flowers as well as the deeply cut foliage (this last feature is also the source of the plant’s Latin species name). The slightly drooping yellow flowers are exactly the same color as the goldfinches who avidly feed as the flowers go to seed in August and September, providing a desirable source of late season forage for this beloved migratory species. This can be an aggressive plant, advancing by stolons seemingly overnight. Dig them or, as I’m now trying, sink them in a tree pot or fountain basin (make sure it has plenty of drainage) to just above grade (most of the stolons are not far below grade) to keep it in check. A neighbor has planted them into the narrow strip between her sidewalk and street—a great solution that also provides some bonus privacy from the street. (Consult your municipality’s codes regarding plant heights before you follow suit.)
Wild senna Wild senna (Cassia hebecarpa)
Although a member of the pea family like lupine and false indigo, the warm yellow
flowers of wild senna (Senna or Cassia hebecarpa) are surprisingly un-pea-like in form. Resembling nothing so much as steroid-fueled, stump-sprouts from a honey locust tree (Gleditsia triacanthos), wild senna can easily top seven feet. The pinnate leaves are more recognizably pea-like; the central stems are held perpendicular to the main stem, giving the plant a strong architectural quality. Long, thin, ornamental, and bean-like pods follow prolific five-petaled flowers. For a less imposing but similar plant, try partridge pea (Chamaecrista fasciculata). Both are highly sought-after nectar sources for native pollinators, and numerous native birds appreciate their seeds.
Giant yellow hyssop Agastaches or wild hyssops have long been touted as pollinator magnets. Anise hyssop is probably the best-known species (A. foeniculum), with its shorter stature (3 to 5 feet) and fluffy blue-violet flowers. Giant yellow hyssop (A. nepetoides) is anise hyssop on growth hormones, ranging from 3 to 8 feet. The flowers are not as ornamental as its shorter cousin’s, continued on next page
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Michigan Gardener | July/August 2016 | MichiganGardener.com
Giant sunflower (Helianthus giganteus) continued from previous page but they are every bit as desirable for the bees and butterflies. Like other members of the mint family, it is a vigorous grower. Its catnip-like foliage (I can’t always tell the seedlings apart in my garden) is untroubled by pests or diseases.
Ironweed Ironweeds’ (Vernonia) common name is thought to reflect their iron-like characteristics, from tough constitutions to the rusty color of the spent efflorescences. Like other plants in the genus, the native Missouri ironweed (V. missurica) has deep magenta flowers that contrast beautifully with tall, yellowflowered plants, especially giant sunflower and silphium species. Pollinators appreciate the flowers, especially as they appear later in the season. If you prefer a shorter plant with more flowers, you can follow the same protocols used to increase flowering on mums, cutting back by a third at the beginning of June and July (and even August).
Giant sunflower Few flowers are as universally beloved as the sunflower (Helianthus). Annual sunflowers—with their now-astonishing array of flower form and color—are certainly the best known of the genus, but there are many perennial species that merit inclusion in any garden. Giant sunflower (H. giganteus) is cerP H OTO G R A P H S BY D O N S C H U LT E
tainly the most imposing of these, maxing out at ten feet or more. Narrowleaf sunflower (H. angustifolius) comes close. Don’t expect huge flowers or foliage from these plants. You will see numerous flowers on each stem (the plant develops a woody crown with an increasing number of stems over the years), which are much appreciated by nectaring insects and the seeds of which are as desirable for the birds as those that can be purchased. Unlike its more aggressive cousin, Jerusalem artichoke (H. tuberosus), giant sunflower is relatively easily managed, playing well with other species, including ironweed, whose purple flowers it complements perfectly.
Rosinweed My most prized of the giants are probably the rosinweeds (Silphium), four of which are native to Michigan: rosinweed (S. integrifolium), prairie dock (S. terebinthinaceum), compass plant (S. laciniatum) and, my personal favorite, cup plant (S. perfoliatum). The species name perfoliatum refers to the manner in which the pairs of opposite leaves clasp the plant’s robust, square stems: they are “perforated” by them. Each pair of leaves is turned 90 degrees from the pairs above and below it. When it rains, the plant becomes a floral fountain, with water cascading from one pair of cupped leaves to the next. The cups hold rainwater for a short period of time, providing a critical water source for birds and other small creatures. The flowers are favored by pollinators, while the sunflowersized seeds—which begin to appear just after
Cup plant (Silphium perfoliatum) mid-August—are particularly desirable for seed-eating birds and squirrels, who treat the plants like a cross between a jungle-gym and a flying trapeze with their antics. Every year, my friend Don and I watch it avidly, sometimes jokingly commiserating on its struggles during especially droughty years when it (only) reaches 9-1/2 feet. When Don sends me a photo he’s taken of a Monarch butterfly nectaring on my ten-foot-tall cup plant, I’m reminded of its contribution to the faunal species in my garden.
Closing thoughts When I see swarms of pollinators work-
ing over my six-foot-tall Joe Pye weed (with so many insects, the efflorescences vibrate with their activity), I know I’m also helping my neighbors who raise food crops in the area by spreading a complimentary repast for the folks who help their tomatoes, squash and peppers bear fruit. What’s on my “giant” wish list? Tetraploid true Solomon’s seal (Polygonatum biflorum), a maxed-out version of a long-time woodland garden favorite topping out at up to seven feet. The next time you’re out in your garden, think about how you might be able to fit in just one native plant species. Even one of these friendly giants.
Cheryl M. English owns Black Cat Pottery and gardens professionally in Detroit, MI. An Advanced Master Gardener and Master Composter, she speaks on numerous gardening topics and is a Wildflower Association of Michigan board member. Her typical urban lot has over 50 varieties of clematis and almost 200 native plant species. She runs a Clematis Pruning Workshop in May. She opens her garden to the public twice a year at her free Spring/ Summer Garden Tours. 2016 dates: June 4 & August 20. No pre-registration is required. Contact Cheryl to speak at your next meeting or event: cenglish@blackcatpottery.com. Follow Cheryl’s blog at BlackCatPottery.com and Facebook.com/BlackCatPottery. Don Schulte is an avid gardener and enjoys interpreting Michigan wildflowers and other garden favorites through his photography. Don and Cheryl have been working together to document the clematis, other traditional garden favorites, and native plants in her garden. See more of his work at NotableGreetings.com and DonSchulte.com.
MichiganGardener.com | July/August 2016 | Michigan Gardener
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“Tulip time in Holland, Michigan.” —Laura Kelley
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Michigan Gardener | July/August 2016 | MichiganGardener.com
‘Cranberry Crush’
‘Midnight Marvel’
Pinks ‘Summer Storm’ – Pink flowers with red centers, and deep wine foliage. 4-5 feet tall.
‘Summer Storm’
‘Berry Awesome’ – Mauve/lavender blooms with red eye. Dark foliage. 4 feet tall.
‘Cherry Cheesecake’ – White flowers heavily veined with raspberry red and a deep cherry center. 4-5 feet tall.
‘Starry Starry Night’ – Pinwheel-striped, bicolored pink flowers with red center. The darkest purple foliage to date. 3-1/2 to 4 feet tall.
MichiganGardener.com | July/August 2016 | Michigan Gardener
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continued from back cover Blooms of Bressingham has recently introduced a line of compact hibiscus called the Cordials Collection. Cultivars introduced over the past 20 years by the Fleming brothers (Fleming’s Flower Fields of Nebraska), such as ‘Fireball,’ ‘Fantasia,’ ‘Kopper King,’ and ‘Old Yella,’ are now considered nursery standards. Although the new varieties have amazingly huge 7- to 10-inch flowers, some of which have gorgeous multi-colored patterns, you’d be missing the point if you evaluated them strictly on their flowers. The greatest improvements are in plant habit, shorter height, better branching, and more attractive dark green to purple, maple-like foliage. Plus, the newest hybrids produce more flowers per plant with multiple flower buds at each node, and have an indeterminate blooming pattern whereby the stem tip continues to produce flowers rather terminating in a single bud. The flowers often have thicker, wider petals, giving them greater weather tolerance and a very full appearance.
How to grow Garden hibiscus are deceptively hardy considering many of the original species in their genetic profile are native to the central and southern United States. They can tolerate winter temperatures of minus 20 degrees F or lower. They should not be confused with varieties of the tropical hibiscus (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis) that are often sold as patio plants and not hardy in Michigan. In tropical hibiscus, you’ll find flowers on the warm end of the spectrum (yellow, orange, apricot, vermillion), but you won’t find those colors in the hardy hybrids. They come in shades of pink, rose, lavender, and reds tending toward the cool side of the color wheel. Hardy hibiscus is notoriously late to emerge in the spring, but don’t despair if you don’t see them up by Memorial Day. After especially harsh winters, they might not emerge until June, but they overcome their tardiness with a fast, vigorous growth rate. They need full sun and love moist soil, but will tolerate drought once established. Because they are among the few perennials that tolerate poor drainage, they’re an excellent choice for planting in low areas that may be inundated in spring but dry out in summer. They are perfect for use in rain gardens or along the edges of retention basins. Of course they are sure to be the star of the show during the peak of bloom in August, no matter where you plant them. Unfortunately, hibiscus is prone to a couple of insect pests that can quickly mar the flowers and foliage. Japanese beetles love the buds, blooms and leaves. Watch for the adults, which usually begin to appear around the continued on next page ‘Berry Awesome’
P H OTO S CO U R T E SY O F W W W. P E R E N N I A L R E S O U R C E .CO M
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Michigan Gardener | July/August 2016 | MichiganGardener.com
‘Starry Starry Night’
White ‘Mocha Moon’ – Dark foliage and white flowers with a red eye. Bright green flower calyxes contrast with the dark leaves. 4 feet tall.
‘Cherry Cheesecake’ continued from previous page Fourth of July. Hand-pick or spray, as you see fit. The hibiscus sawfly often goes unnoticed until the foliage has been skeletonized. It is the larval stage (technically not a caterpillar but looking very much like one) that does the
‘Mocha Moon’ damage. Check the undersides of the leaves for small green larvae 3/8 inch long, beginning in mid-July. They are rather small for hand-picking, but can be squished or hosed off. Systemic insecticides are highly effective, but organic controls like insecticidal soap, pyrethrins, spinosad, and neem oil could also be
used. Because this pest can produce five generations per year, continue to check the leaves all summer long. Hardy hibiscus are large plants, and even the most compact of varieties will take a 3- by 3-foot area at maturity, with many of them in the 4- to 5-foot range. This is a vexing prob-
lem for gardeners who fall in love with hibiscus: we simply don’t have space to accommodate more than a few. With so many amazing varieties available, it is hard to choose! Karen Bovio is the owner of Specialty Growers in Howell, MI.
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Mosquito control what you need to know
Control Larvae
Mosquito Beater WSPs
Controlling larvae is a cornerstone to effective mosquito control. Treat ponds, bird baths or any place with standing water should be treated.
Kill Adults FOG Rx Fogger, Mosquito Beater Spray
Reducing adult populations is essential to overall control that will allow safer outdoor enjoyment.
Repel Adults Mosquito Beater Granular & Liquid
For temporary relief during outdoors events, all natural area mosquito repellents are an added level of protection.
| July/August 2016 | MichiganGardener.com
Hardy Hibiscus Tropical drama for Michigan gardens
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hen I got started in horticulture in the 1970s, my first experience with hardy hibiscus (zone 4) was through the Park and Burpee seed catalogs, where you could buy packets of seed for ‘Disco Belle’ or ‘Southern Belle’ hibiscus. The big seeds were easy to germinate, and quickly developed into 3- and 5-foot tall plants. Sold as a mixture, you might end up with red, pink or white flowers, some of which had red eye zones. The dinner-plate sized, five-petaled flowers are of course the main attraction, but these plants bloomed only about 2 weeks in August. These seed-grown hybrids of Hibiscus moscheutos are still available but have been superseded by newer seed strains like ‘Luna’ and ‘HoneyKaren moon,’ which are more Bovio compact and floriferous, with seeds available in separate colors. These new compact hibiscus strains are a great choice for gardeners with limited space, because they grow only 2 to 3 feet tall with equal width.
A sampling of hardy hibiscus I’m a fan of supporting local horticulture, so I will give a nod to the Michigan-bred and introduced varieties from Walters Gardens. All have flowers 7 to 8 inches across or larger. I’ve listed some of my favorites, but there are other Walters Gardens varieties available as well, plus many other worthy varieties from other breeders.
New varieties But the real action in hardy hibiscus hybridizing is occurring with cultivars bred from several native species including H. moscheutos, H. grandiflorus, H. laevis, H. coccineus and others. A great number of excellent hybrids have been developed over the past 25 years. These must be purchased as named varieties; they don’t come true from seed and most don’t produce viable seed at all. Some of the best introductions have been introduced right here in Michigan, with Walters Gardens of Zeeland leading the way. This highly regarded perennial plant producer has introduced over 20 new hibiscus cultivars over the past 6 years. Many of the Walters Gardens introductions can be recognized by the Summerific trademark name. continued on page 32/33
‘Heartthrob’
Reds ‘Cranberry Crush’ – Dark scarlet flowers and deep green, maple-like leaves. 3-4 feet tall. ‘Heartthrob’ – Black buds open to dark burgundy flowers. Green hydrangea-like foliage. 4 feet tall. ‘Midnight Marvel’ – Wine-purple, maple-like leaves and bright scarlet red flowers. 4 feet tall. ‘Sultry Kiss’ – Enormous fuchsia-red flowers, 9-11 inches across. Foliage emerges bronze and turns olive green. 4-5 feet tall.