Michigan Gardener - May 2016 by Michigan Gardener

May 2016

MichiganGardener.com

Your guide to Great Lakes gardening

New Plants

new annuals for 2016 Garden to Table Arugula

Profile

Local bonsai experts

Perennials Shasta daisy

Feature

Small, easy water gardens

Thyme for Herbs

Making leaf imprint stepping stones

INSPIRING MICHIGAN GARDENERS SINCE 1996

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Michigan Gardener | May 2016 | MichiganGardener.com

Garden Wisdom “Everything I have earned has gone into these gardens. I do not deny that I am proud of them.”

Ask MG............................................................6 Vegetable Patch..........................................10 Getting to Know: Viburnum leaf beetle.................................12 Books for the Michigan Gardener....... 14 Advertiser Index..........................................17 New Annuals for 2016............................. 18 Birds: Goldfinches..................................... 28 Garden to Table: Arugula.......................30

Calibrachoa ‘Minifamous Double Apricot’ New double-blooming Calibrachoa. Low maintenance. Best grown in Full Sun containers.

Coleus Under the Sea 'Fish Net' A real showstopper. Large leaves with exceptional serrated edges. Sun or shade.

Calendar.........................................................32 Perennial Perspectives: Shasta Daisy: An American Classic.....36 Classified Ads.............................................. 41 Weather Wrap............................................ 41 Subscription Form..................................... 42

Anemone 'Loreley' The queen of the fall perennial garden. Tolerates part shade to full sun. Grows 40" tall.

Calibrachoa 'Superbells Holy Moly' Unique bicolored flowers. Ideal for Full Sun containers.

—Claude Monet

To-Do List........................................................8 Where to pick up Michigan Gardener....42 Feature: Small water gardens...............44 Places to Grow...........................................46 Thyme for Herbs: How to make stepping stones.............48 Through the Lens........................................51 On the Road: Missouri Botanical Garden.....................52 Garden Profile: The Art of Bonsai......................Back cover On the cover: Superbells Holy Moly! (Calibrachoa) is one of many new annuals we feature beginning on page 18.

Photo: Proven Winners

To Our Readers... In May 1996, we published the first issue of Michigan Gardener. Now, in May 2016, we celebrate our 20-year anniversary. We give thanks to our many advertisers over the years as well as our enthusiastic readers. As of this May 2016 issue, here is a snapshot of Michigan Gardener’s history: • 166 issues published • Over 4,000,000 copies circulated

Leucanthemum 'Luna' This shasta daisy sports unique, fully double flowers resembling bicolored marigolds. Blooms June-July. Sun.

Petunia 'Night Sky' Unique white spotted violet-blue flowers produced in profusion all summer with minimal care. Full to Part Sun.

Hellebore 'Flower Girl' Young plants this year will bloom very early in shade or part shade next spring.

Sedum 'Lime Twister' Vibrant, tidy & hardy. Variegation is blushed orange in cool weather. Rose-pink flowers. Full Sun.

Thank you again and best wishes for a glorious gardening season!

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

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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

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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Remove Star of Bethlehem weed How can I get rid of Star of Bethlehem? It has long, grass-like leaves attached to small bulbs which are almost impossible to retrieve from the soil. S., Monroe Star of Bethlehem (Ornithogalum umbellatum) loves moist gardens, lawns, pastures, and just about any type of landscape. A member of the lily family originating in Northern Africa and Eurasia, it is quite lovely with its erect, green, blade-like leaves and starshaped white flower. Although it likes moist conditions while growing, it can tolerate dry soil after dieback. When in bloom the flower emits a pleasant scent. However, the plant produces compounds toxic to humans and animals if the bulbs or flowers are ingested. Our delight at this early spring flower turns to aggravation as its weedy characteristics become known. Although it reproduces by seed, its more prolific method is the formation of bulblets at the base of the parent bulb. When detached, each forms a new plant. Prevent its proliferation initially by not planting it as an ornamental. Unfortunately, the only effective control is removing the

bulbs. Digging out and discarding the bulbs prior to foliage dieback is critical so you know where they are. Mowing can prevent flowering and seed production if they are in a lawn, but will not eliminate the bulb. Hoeing or cultivating the soil will further disperse the bulbs, as will using the soil from an infested area. Even the smallest bulb will become a plant. Therefore, manual removal by digging— rather than pulling like a weed—is about the only way to reduce the population. Do not compost the removed plants; discard them in the trash.

How to grow cucumbers What is the best way to grow cucumbers in zone 5, especially pickling cukes and slicers? When is the best time to plant seeds and do they prefer sun or shade? Also, in the past, after I have picked the first fruit, the plants wither and die. N.S., Reading Cucumbers are warm season vegetables in the cucurbit family. They are easy to grow if you give the right soil, full sun and sufficient moisture, and wait for weather to warm the soil before planting seeds. In zone 5, don’t rush to plant until all threat of frost is past. Plant seed when the soil temperature is at least 60 degrees F. The warmer the soil, the faster it will germinate. Cucumbers are very

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sensitive to cold and need warm soil and air. Plant seed about 1-1/2 inches deep in rows or in hills. If transplanting, plants with one or two sets of true leaves transplant best. Also rotate crop location and allow two years between planted areas. Well-drained fertile soil, high in both organic matter and nitrogen, with a pH of 6.0 to 6.5 is the best. Cucumbers are heavy feeders. Consistent, plentiful moisture early in the day is needed until the fruit is ripening. If the site is too dry, the fruit will be bitter. It is wise to trellis the vine varieties to increase their air circulation and reduce disease problems. It also makes harvest easier and produces straighter fruit. Make sure trellises do not shade other plants that need sun. When watering, apply water at the base of the plant, never overhead. Be watchful for the spotted or striped cucumber beetle which can carry bacterial wilt that produces the symptoms you described. Control them as soon as they appear. Disease occurs when plants are crowded. Space plants apart for air circulation and eliminate weed competition.

Selecting lavenders for Michigan Which cultivars of lavender do you recommend for us in Michigan? P.M., Ann Arbor The primary lavender for Michigan is Lavandula angustifolia. These are hardy English lavenders for the most part. There are about eight varieties that survive our winters and are an important pollen source for bees and butterflies. Lavender thrives in hot, sunny sites with fast-draining soils. They die out and get leggy in heavy clay and rich, moist soils. Therefore proper location is essential. They are a superb choice for the drought resistant garden. ‘Thumbelina Leigh’ is a robust dwarf that matures at about 15 inches and has plump flower spikes and rich fragrance. A French hybrid is L. x intermedia ‘Grosso’ that flowers on a 30-inch plant and makes perfect culinary accents and fragrance sachets. ‘Pastor’s Pride’ is a twice-blooming lavender, in late spring and September. It has shown great cold hardiness

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Have a question? Send it in! Go to MichiganGardener.com and click on “Submit a question” and moisture tolerance. ‘Hidcote Superior’ is an improved English variety that blooms in late spring with great fragrance. ‘Munstead Violet’ is a new selection and has some of the most intense violet-blue flowers over strong foliage. Keeping lavender healthy comes from good drainage and proper pruning. Pruning is not the same as harvesting, where only the flower stalks are removed. Prune plants twice a year: in very early spring (April) and after they bloom. Lavender will become leggy and flower production will decrease significantly if it isn’t pruned hard. Prune down to three nodes on the new growth above the old wood, which looks gray and isn’t flexible. The plant is usually trimmed to a mound shape to let in lots of light and to help the air circulate. Then do another trim in late summer to early fall.

Getting started with fruit trees I’m a long-time vegetable gardener who just purchased a home with an acre of treeless land. I’m looking for recommendations on the most low maintenance and highly disease-resistant types of fruit trees/varieties. With children at home, I would like to stay as organic as possible. Other than peaches, I am open to fruit trees, berry bushes and vines. My soil conditions vary from heavy clay to loamy. J.F., Macomb First, measure and mark out the areas with stake and string where you want to grow fruit trees, bramble and bush fruit, and vines. Understand that there needs to be enough space between areas so that fruit trees and trellised vines do not shade out bramble and bush fruit. Full sun is the key to success. Second, get your soil tested with an MSU soil test kit you can purchase from your County Extension Service. Be specific about what you want to plant in each area sampled so they can recommend the proper amendments and portions per area. Not all fruit grows in the same conditions. Your Extension Service can also help you with specific bulletins on low maintenance and disease-resistant fruit trees, bush and vine fruit. You can also go to their website (www. msue.anr.msu.edu) and search for specifics on the same. It is smart to get dwarf fruit trees both for maintenance and harvest. There are several dwarf cherry and apple trees that produce in Michigan soils and climate. Having a home fruit orchard is a significant undertaking and might best be done in small stages to keep it manageable. Based on your soil tests, you can determine which fruit to begin with and prepare the area according to your time and energies. Answers provided by Beverly Moss, owner of Garden Rhythms.

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Michigan Gardener | May 2016 | MichiganGardener.com

to-do list Annuals • Succulents are a trendy new plant for gardens or containers. Kalanchoes provide bright splashes of color for the entire season, and are great for sunny to part sun areas. Succulents are low maintenance, requiring minimal water. Low pots filled with a variety of plants are great for table centerpieces. Their popularity has increased the number of varieties available at the garden center. Look for many different colors, sizes and textures to add interest. • Review your garden notes from last year to remember how flowers performed. Garden conditions change over the years—some areas may get more sun or more shade. It might be time to change up what you plant. There are so many new plants available, be sure to try at least one new variety this year.

Spring-Flowering Bulbs

Feature Task: Caring for hydrangeas in your garden In the April 2016 issue, we reviewed six varieties of hydrangeas commonly grown in Michigan: • Smooth, aka snowball hydrangea (Hydrangea arborescens) • Panicle, aka summer-blooming hydrangeas (Hydrangea paniculata) • Bigleaf, aka mophead (Hydrangea macrophylla) • Mountain (Hydrangea serrata) • Oakleaf (Hydrangea quercifolia) • Climbing (Hydrangea anomala) Now, let’s review how to properly care for the hydrangeas you have selected.

Growing All hydrangeas have similar care. They prefer moist, but well-drained soil. Hydrangeas do not like wet feet EVER! Hydrangeas grow best with at least four hours of sun each day, ideally in the morning. The more sun they receive, the more water they’ll need. Panicle hydrangeas are the most sun tolerant, and can take full sun in Michigan.

Hydrangeas need plenty of water, especially as they are getting established. Hydrangeas have shallow roots, so they dry out quickly. A 2- to 3-inch thick layer of shredded bark mulch around plants will help keep the roots cool, reduce weeds and conserve moisture. Just be sure to keep the mulch away from stems. A good mulch rule: no wood touching wood.

If you’re going to try this, be sure to purchase quality products and follow the instructions closely. Using more amendments will not speed up the results, and may harm your plant. With so many varieties available, it may be best to let Mother Nature take its natural course. Enjoy what you have.

Color

Avoid pruning re-blooming hydrangeas and the species that flower on old wood. Plant these in areas where they won’t need to be pruned, and select varieties that do not get too big for their space. Hydrangeas that bloom on new wood can be pruned in fall, or in the early spring. Remove up to one-third to one-half of the height each year, if desired. This will encourage vigorous new growth and strong stems to support the flowers. Hydrangeas do not necessarily require regular pruning. They will grow and bloom with nothing more than removing spent flowers and any dead wood each early spring.

All hydrangeas undergo some color change as their flowers age. Only bigleaf and mountain hydrangeas can change their color in a predictable, controllable way. The pH of the soil makes this change possible, with the availability of aluminum ions. Certain varieties of bigleaf hydrangeas cannot change color – the more intense the color, the less likely it can change. Similarly, white varieties of big leaf hydrangeas will not change color. It is easier to change a hydrangea from pink to blue than from blue to pink. A soil test is necessary to determine the best way to do it.

• Fertilize with a water-soluble fertilizer from the time the foliage tips emerge until the leaves start to yellow, and you’ll get better blooms each year. • Take any bulbs you started indoors and plant them directly into the ground. If there’s a late frost, protect the bulbs with cones of newspaper. Fertilize these bulbs throughout the summer. You’ll get larger bulbs to dig up in the fall, which translates into more flowers for next year.

Herbs

Fruit

Lawns

Houseplants

• You can still add fruit trees and bushes to your garden this month. Remember that newly planted fruit trees and brambles need time to get established. Do not expect any real fruit yields for several years. During this time, fruit trees should be pruned to form a strong structure to bear the fruit.

• In early May, put down grub control if, and only if, you have a grub problem. • May is still a good time to core aerate your lawn if you haven’t yet done so. • If you’ve had disease problems on your lawn before, use a slow-release organic fertilizer and water in the middle of the

• Incorporate houseplants with annuals into container gardens for the patio. Tall houseplants like palms, fiddle leaf figs, or crotons make great thrillers. Or use trailing plants like ivy, pothos or lipstick plant to spill over the sides.

• May is a great time to thin out any perennial herbs, like thyme, oregano, tarragon or chives. Divide clumps and plant in different locations around the garden or share with neighbors.

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Perennials • Plant some perennials in containers this year, or add some unusual leaf color and texture to annual containers by using a few perennials. At the end of the season, simply plant them in the garden and enjoy for many seasons to come. Using perennials in shade containers can really boost the number of plant options available to you and add some unexpected creativity to your design.

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day. When you water in the heat of the day, you reduce heat stress on your lawn—heat stress makes your grass more prone to diseases. Also, you will have fewer diseases spreading through your grass since it will not be staying too wet for too long.

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• Avoid watering with a sprinkler. Water at the base of the plant so the water goes directly to the roots and the foliage is kept as dry as possible. • Fertilize roses at least once every two weeks throughout the season. • If you want roses but do not want the fuss, try shrub roses. They provide great color throughout the season.

Vegetables • When selecting vegetables to grow in your

Pruning

garden, choose varieties your family likes, but add a few new ones for experimenting in the kitchen. Mix edibles within flower beds for different color and texture. New dwarf varieties of blueberry and raspberries are great mixed in with perennials. • Make sure to water your vegetable garden consistently. Most vegetables are comprised of water, so consistent levels will increase production. • After planting, apply a layer of fine mulch or even wet newspaper between the rows to make paths to walk on. Walking on mulch will help keep the soil from becoming compacted and help keep weeds down. This fine mulch and newspaper will break down over the season and can be tilled into the soil next year.

Vines • Vines are an underutilized group of garden plants that are extremely versatile. They’re a great way to add color into the 4- to 8-foot high area of the garden. Plant a vine to hide an air conditioning unit with a properly placed trellis; add privacy to a chain link fence; or add flowers to a plain green hedge.

Water Gardening • Add the sound of water to your garden with a large pond or a small fountain. Water provides a cooling sensation and can change the character of a garden space. A still body of water is calming, while the sound of a fountain provides a bit of energy. Provided by the professionals at English Gardens.

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Michigan Gardener | May 2016 | MichiganGardener.com

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f all the vegetables grown in Ameriwhether to top graft or side graft the very can gardens, the tomato is the most young plants. Top grafting requires cutting popular. Today there are hundreds both plants and joining them at the cut. This of varieties from which to choose: heirlooms is usually done with smaller seedlings. Side that reflect the heritage of previous generagrafting is good for larger seedlings and is a tions of growers; hybrids that combine the method in which the rootstock and scion are best of two parent plants; greenhouse tomacut partially through, connected and contoes specially bred to be raised in that entinue to grow on both sets of roots until the vironment; and now grafted tomatoes that wound is healed. After the graft wound heals, allow the rootstock of one variety to provide the scion roots are cut away from the plant. benefits to the grafted top portion of a differOnce the graft connection has been made, ent type. While most people think of grafted there is a healing process that needs to take plants as having woody stems, such as roses place. The grafted cuttings will need to be and fruit trees, it is possible with practice to placed in a protected environment that prograft the tender stems of tomato plants. vides high humidity (about 95 percent) withWhy on earth would anyone out the leaves staying wet, and also spend time trying to graft tomatoes, placed in a heavily shaded area to you may ask? Well, the rootstock reduce stress. It will take anywhere can provide disease resistance to from 4 to 7 days for the wound to soilborne pathogens that the graftheal, depending on whether it is ed upper portion (referred to as the a top or side graft. The plants will scion) may not have and may also need to be exposed to increasing add vigor to a less vigorous upper light conditions for a few days begraft. This can be especially helpfore setting them out. ful with heirlooms that are often The graft union should always be Mary less resistant to soilborne diseases above the soil line. If the scion is too Gerstenberger and tend to produce fewer tomatoes close to the soil, it may root and dethan many of the hybrids. feat the purpose of the grafting. Much more How does one graft a tomato? It is best to detailed information on grafting tomatoes start with seed from the two varieties you can be found at the University of Vermont wish to graft, as the plants need to be close to website: tinyurl.com/jm5rbnz. While graftthe same size when you graft them together. ing vegetable plants is a practice that has been The rootstock should be a variety that is vigaround for nearly a hundred years in Japan orous and disease resistant. The scion is the and Korea and has been practiced in many less disease resistant or less vigorous tomato countries for quite some time, it is still fairly plant, usually an heirloom tomato. new in the United States. It is primarily done A clean, sharp razor blade and grafting by greenhouse growers—grafting tomatoes is clips will be needed. Now the choice becomes not something the average home gardener is likely to do. It is often better to leave it to the experts who have all the right materials and conditions to be successful. Many garden centers and catalog companies now offer grafted tomato plants. They call will be a little more expensive due to the “the little gardener extra work involved, but offer benefits that that could” make them worth the price. 15 Years Experience at Botanical Gardens FREE Estimates

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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. Call the toll-free Michigan State University Lawn and Garden Hotline at 888-678-3464 for answers to your gardening questions.

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Michigan Gardener | May 2016 | MichiganGardener.com

pollinator safe zone, and recommend specific plant choices that will please both you and the pollinator insects. A life-long gardener and lover of plants, Joseph was named “one of six young horticulturists who are helping to shape how America gardens” by Organic Gardening magazine. He is the author of Plant Breeding for the Home Gardener, and has worked at Shibamichi Hoten Nursery in Japan, and at Arrowhead Alpines in Fowlerville, MI.

Allow for plenty of time to browse the nursery. You’ll find hundreds of varieties of Michigan-hardy perennials and herbs, as well as interesting annuals & veggie plants.

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There are a few insects that are only vulnerable during very narrow windows each season. Most of them can be devastating to plant life when natural order is amiss. The viburnum leaf beetle (VLB) is one of those destructive insects. It will devour large quantities of foliage within just three days once it reaches its larval stage. In their adult stage throughout the summer months, they will continue to feed on viburnums, sometimes attacking in waves that ultimately kill the Bruce Watt, University of Maine, Bugwood.org plants. In this article, I will delve into the Viburnum leaf beetle on underside of leaf. VLB, and offer recommended solutions. For the first time, in 2014, and again in 2015, I observed firsthand VLB killing crancent severely cold winters (with lots of snow berrybush viburnum within one season at cover) may not have reduced the VLB numsuch a rapid rate that the shrubs never stood bers substantially, if at all. a chance. Even though cranberrybush viburThe most important cause for the VLB nums are very susceptible to VLB, in previous rise may be the loss of our natural predators years they demonstrated the ability to re-leaf, like the lady beetles, which can be killed off especially when rainfall was plentiful, as long much easier when they are exposed to exas some insecticide control was implemented. treme cold. In recent years the ratio of VLB to What didn’t help in this case was that these their predators has been increasing dramativiburnums were planted in heavy shade, cally. Perhaps the deep snow cover during the causing the leaves to be thinner than winter of 2014 and 2015 insulated those that receive six hours of direct the VLB eggs while the lady beetles sunlight. A cranberrybush viburfound themselves exposed to minus num’s leaf response to low light will 15 degree F temperatures. result in thinner cell walls, makWhile we may never know for ing the tissue more succulent and sure why the population of VLB less productive. The combination of has increased so dramatically, we high pest population and poor plant should at least understand the implacement at this site was a disasportance of re-introducing more ter waiting for the most opportune Steve natural predators (like lady beetles) moment. The property owners had Martinko to our garden habitats so the natural great luck with this particular shrub order can rebound as quickly as posbefore the rise of VLB, but now realized the sible. When doing so, avoid releasing those importance of diversifying their viburnums. Asian lady beetles, which like to bite us.

VLB populations are increasing

Preventing and managing

One may wonder why the VLB population has reached significant levels in southeastern Michigan. The VLB migrated from Canada and is considered very resistant to harsh conditions. The female lays its eggs within young stem tissue which is then covered up with a thick mass of bark chewings, ensuring its eggs will be protected. It is worth noting that visual confirmation of egg masses on the stems are not the eggs themselves but merely the protective coatings. Thus, one can’t easily squish or crush the eggs manually. The stems must be pruned out in order to manually remove the eggs. Next, freezing and thawing temperatures with low snow cover cause higher death rates of insects than just cold itself. Thus, our re-

Proper plant selection is important when determining the best solution to a VLB problem. Many less-susceptible viburnums are available. I have witnessed Koreanspice and leatherleaf viburnums left untouched, while cranberrybush and mapleleaf viburnums were getting devoured within the same garden beds. See the sidebar (“Viburnum shrubs and their susceptibility to viburnum leaf beetle”) for a list of susceptible and resistant viburnums. Aside from diversifying your selection, pruning is your second best option when it comes to managing VLB. Michiganders should consider pruning from late October to late March. VLB eggs are expected to hatch around 100 growing degree days, which is the measurement of each day it is over 50 degrees,

MichiganGardener.com | May 2016 | Michigan Gardener

Springtime at Wojo’s... where People & Plants come together!

Viburnum shrubs and their susceptibility to viburnum leaf beetle Highly susceptible viburnums: • Arrowwood (V. dentatum) • Smooth witherod (V. nudum) • European cranberrybush (V. opulus) • American cranberrybush (V. opulus var. americana, or V. trilobum) Susceptible viburnums: • Mapleleaf (V. acerifolium) • Wayfaringtree (V. lantana) • Rusty blackhaw (V. rufidulum) • Sargent (V. sargentii) • Wright (V. wrightii)

Courtesy of Cornell University Department of Horticulture

beginning on January 1. April temperatures can fluctuate quite a bit, so if it warms up quickly one year, mid-April would be too late to prune, since the eggs have already hatched. Insecticide sprays will only work best when the crawlers have just emerged (from mid-April to mid-May). Applications of insecticides during the summer months to prevent or control adult VLB from entering your property are mainly ineffective and increase

Moderately susceptible viburnums: • Burkwood (V. x burkwoodii) • Witherod (V. cassinoides) • Linden (V. dilatatum) • Nannyberry (V. lentago) • Blackhaw (V. prunifolium) • Lantanaphyllum (V. x rhytidophylloides) Most resistant viburnums: • Dawn (V. bodnantense) • Koreanspice (V. carlesii) • Judd (V. x juddii) • Doublefile (V. plicatum var. tomentosum) • Leatherleaf (V. rhytidophyllum) • Tea (V. setigerum) • Siebold (V. sieboldii)

the risks of killing off natural predators. Expect more and more adult chewing of your susceptible viburnum shrubs during the mid to late season over the next few years since the VLB population is expected to steadily increase its presence. Steve Martinko is the owner of Contender’s Tree and Lawn Specialists in Oakland County, MI.

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by Donna Balzer and Steven Biggs If you’re looking for a fun refresher course on vegetable gardening that doesn’t make you feel like you’re back in a lecture hall, this is your book. No Nonsense Vegetable Gardening (St Lynn’s Press, 160 pages, $19.95) is a cheerful garden book with useful, easy-to-digest information on every page. The authors offer simple, no-nonsense garden advice that cuts through complexities and misinformation. They don’t always agree on each other’s advice, making this book feel more like an easy conversation with two pals at a garden club meeting. The text is arranged around whimsical, Peter Rabbitstyle illustrations and graphics, as well as photographs. The easy-access charts and he-says, shesays dialogue boxes take the science of gardening and put it into a language everyone can understand. This colorful book is perfect for the quirky gardener.

Plants with Style: A Plantsman’s Choices for a Vibrant, 21st-Century Garden by Kelly Norris Why settle for dull, ho-hum plants? In Plants with Style (Timber Press, 280 pages, $24.95), plant guru Kelly Norris calls for a garden revolution: out with the boring plants and in with the newcomers that will make your jaw drop. A passionate horticulturist and lifelong gardener, the author is an ideal guide to the botanical riches available to today’s gardeners. He shines a spotlight on great plants in every category—plants that will thrive, not merely survive, including fabulous natives that revel in difficult soil, trees and shrubs with sublime bark and structure, unusual seasonal gems, and more. Along the way, he shows you how to forge a personal style in harmony with your garden’s setting and local environment. This stylish book can guide you to plants that will provide a more fulfilling connection between you and your own garden.

Container Theme Gardens: 42 Combinations, Each Using 5 Perfectly Matched Plants by Nancy J. Ondra Container gardening is rewarding and easy, even for those with limited space and time. Just choose a container and one of the author’s five-plant themes in Container Theme Gardens (Storey Publishing, 272 pages, $19.95). You might be drawn to a favorite color, like elegant white or soft blue. Perhaps you dream of creating a haven for hummingbirds or a banquet for butterflies, a night-blooming wonder or a fragrant container of herbs for tea. In every case, the book has a beautiful combination of just the right five plants for any season, situation, or taste. It provides 42 plans for container arrangements including a meadow in a box, a pond in a pot, a simple salad garden, and a combination that will attract hummingbirds. Each plan includes photographs of what the full planting will look like, as well as a handy shopping list so you know exactly what you need to get from your local garden center.

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Abbott’s Landscape Nursery 2781 Scio Church Rd., Ann Arbor MI 48103 734-665-8733 www.abbottsnursery.com May/June hours: Mon-Sat 9-6, Sun 10-5 Abbott’s turn-of-the-century farm is a perfect setting for our unique nursery. Mike Abbott likes what gardeners like, both classic and new, and handpicks all our plants. Over 55 Japanese maples and 25 reliably-blooming hydrangea varieties. Also garden ornaments, fixtures, containers and more. Come see us—we stock plants you demand and probably some you never knew existed.

Alexander’s Farm Market & Greenhouses 6925 Whitmore Lake Rd., Whitmore Lake, MI 48189 734-741-1064 www.alexandersfarmmarketandgreenhouse.com May/June hours: Daily 9-7 We’re that hidden gem you’ve been hoping to find! Homegrown annuals, vegetables, perennials, extraordinary hanging baskets and planters. Plus our exclusive 99¢ seed selection. Distinctive variety of fruit trees, small fruits, flowering shrubs, climbing vines, herbs, fairy garden plants, and roses, including easy-care shrubs, and luxuriously scented David Austins.

Bloom! Garden Center & Lotus Gardenscapes 1885 Baker Rd., Dexter, MI 48130 734-426-6600 www.lotusgardenscapes.com May/June hours: Mon-Wed 9-6, Thu 9-8, Fri 9-6, Sat 9-6, Sun 12-5 A relaxed atmosphere with nursery, plus visit our new BLOOMtique! for great gifts and specialty indoor plants! Unique plants and natives, fountains and water gardening supplies, creative garden art and fairy finds. Expert staff will help you pick the perfect plant, and award-winning landscape designers are available weekdays. Gardening and Fairy workshops monthly.

English Gardens 155 N. Maple Rd., Ann Arbor, MI 48103 734-332-7900 www.EnglishGardens.com Hours – Thru Sun, June 5: Mon-Sat 9-8, Sun 9-6; Starting Mon, June 6: Mon-Sat 9-7, Sun 10-5 Founded in 1954, English Gardens is familyand locally-owned, operating six full-service stores and a full-service landscaping company in Metro Detroit. Each full-service store has a nursery, garden center, patio shop, and seasonal Christmas center featuring the best value and finest quality products and services. For more information: 800-335-GROW.

Fraleighs Landscape Nursery 8600 Jackson Rd., Dexter, MI 48130 734-426-5067 www.fraleighs.com May/June hours: Please call or visit website for current hours Wide variety of perennials, shrubs, ornamental grasses, flowering ornamentals, native plants, shade trees, and evergreens. Expert staff to assist with your landscaping and horticultural questions. We source plants from Michigan growers whenever possible. We stock unusual items, but we really love selling plants that are reliable and functional, but never boring!

The Garden Mill 110 S. Main St., Chelsea, MI 48118 734-475-3539 www.thegardenmill.com May/June hours: Sun-Mon 12-6, Tue-Thu 10-7, Fri-Sat 10-8 An ever-changing variety of beautiful and functional products. Unique and hand-crafted artifacts for garden and home. Wrought iron and rustic garden features, eclectic wind chimes, fountains, classic garden sculptures, colorful plant containers, magical fairy garden supplies, whimsical birdhouses, feeders, and baths, seasonal seeds, hanging baskets, and bedding plants.

Hidden Lake Gardens 6214 Monroe Rd. (M-50), Tipton, MI 49287 517-431-2060 www.hiddenlakegardens.msu.edu April-October hours: Open daily 9-7 755 acres. Don’t miss one of the finest collections of Dwarf and Rare Conifers—over 500 specimens. Hosta Hillside has over 800 varieties. Enjoy a leisurely drive through the Arboretum. See lush tropicals in the Conservatory. Serene outdoor displays in the Bonsai Courtyard. The Demonstration Garden shows attractive mixed plantings. Great hiking trails and dog-friendly, too!

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HillTop Greenhouse & Farms 8996 West Liberty, Ann Arbor, MI 48103 734-302-4233 www.hilltopgreenhousea2.com May/June hours: Mon-Fri 9-7, Sat-Sun 9-6 Just 10 minutes from Ann Arbor or Chelsea, our greenhouse is a relaxing drive from all corners. Choose from over 8,000 baskets and 10,000 flats, plus veggie starters, specialty annuals, and lush combination planters. Each plant is grown on site, with hands-on care from start to finish. Smiles, hugs and a friendly staff, free of charge!

Lodi Farms 2880 S. Wagner Rd., Ann Arbor, MI 48103 734-665-5651 • www.lodifarms.com May/June hours: Mon-Fri 9-6, Sat 9-4, Sun in May 1-4 Come visit our wonderful nursery! We have a fantastic selection of Michigan-grown shade and ornamental trees, evergreens, shrubs of all types, and perennials. Bring your pictures and plans and we’ll help you choose the best plants! Check our sales calendar for specials and browse our catalog on the website. Take a roadtrip here—soon!

Matthaei Botanical Gardens & Nichols Arboretum Matthaei: 1800 North Dixboro Rd., Ann Arbor, MI 48105 Arboretum: 1610 Washington Hts., Ann Arbor, MI 48109 734-647-9679 • www.mbgna.umich.edu May 1-14: Daily 10-4:30; Wed 10-8 May 15-Labor Day: Daily 10-8. Trails open sunrise to sunset. The University of Michigan Matthaei Botanical Gardens & Nichols Arboretum offer trails and natural areas, children’s garden, native plant gardens, bonsai garden, large collection of heirloom peonies, year-round conservatory, wedding venues, special events and sales, youth and adult educational programs, gift shop, and more.

Plymouth Nursery 9900 Ann Arbor Rd W, Plymouth, MI 48170 734-453-5500 www.plymouthnursery.net May/June hours: Mon-Fri 8-8, Sat 8-6, Sun 9-5 For over 50 years we have offered premium quality plants on our 16 acres. Huge selection of trees, shrubs, perennials, annuals. Plus Weber grills, patio furniture, garden art and gifts. Our “Pottery Emporium,” one of S.E. Michigan’s largest, displays premium pots. We have everything you need to grow your garden!

The Produce Station 1629 S. State St. Ann Arbor, MI 48104 734-663-7848 www.producestation.com May/June hours: Mon-Sat 8-9, Sun 8-8 Proudly supplying high-quality, rare perennials and specialty annuals! Succulents, echeveria, agave, rare tropicals, sedum, and sempervivum. Unique dwarf conifers and alpine plants. Enormous selection of specialty herbs and vegetables, plus heirlooms! Vast hosta selection, including tea cup varieties. Gorgeous Vietnamese pottery! Additional location: 2105 W. Stadium Blvd. May-August: Mon-Sat 9-8, Sun 9-7.

Saturday june 11 2016 10 am to 4 pm Saline Flowerland 7370 Michigan Ave., Saline, MI 48176 734-429-4458 www.salineflowerland.com May/June hours: Mon-Fri 8-7, Sat 8-6, Sun 10-5 Saline’s Full Service Greenhouses, “Blooming Strong since 1977.” Our beautiful plants are grown on site for best quality and bloom count. Hundreds of hanging baskets, vegetables, annuals, perennials, herbs, tropical patio planters, groundcovers and fairy gardens. When size is important...we have many 4-inch potted varieties. Multiple mulch types and colors, and topsoil delivery too.

Sell Farms & Greenhouses 7200 Willis Rd., Ypsilanti, MI 48197 866-296-3090 www.sellfarmsandgreenhouses.com May/June hours: Mon-Sat 9-6 Family-owned, just 3.5 miles east of U.S. 23. A short drive from Ann Arbor. Great selection of high quality Annuals, Perennials, and nonGMO Vegetable plants at reasonable prices. Choose from thousands of Hanging Baskets, Combination Planters, Geraniums and Proven Winners plants. One of the largest selections of Perennials, Hydrangeas, and Roses in the area.

4431 South Wagner Rd., Ann Arbor MI 48103 734-663-7600 www.turnersannarbor.com May/June hours: Mon-Fri 9-7, Sat 9-6, Sun 10-4 Ann Arbor’s premier garden center and nursery. We grow an unbelievable selection of annuals and perennials in our greenhouses. Plus a fully-stocked nursery with mature trees and shrubs. Landscape design, construction and installation also available. Our quality plants and knowledgeable, friendly, helpful staff will make your garden a success.

Willow Greenhouse 7839 Curtis Rd., Northville, MI 48168 248-437-7219 www.willowgreenhouse.com May/June hours: Mon-Sat 9-6, Sun 10-5 All plants are grown pesticide-free! Buy direct from the grower. Thousands of Annuals, Perennials, Proven Winners, Wave Petunias, Vegetables, Heirloom Tomatoes, Herbs, Trees, Shrubs and much more. Many hard-tofind varieties! Our competitive pricing keeps our customers coming back year after year! Like us on Facebook!

To advertise in Destinations, email Publisher@MichiganGardener.com or call Eric at 248-594-5563

Advertiser Index Abbott’s Landscape Nursery................... 37 Aguafina Gardens International.............. 15 Alexander’s Farm Mkt/Greenhses........ 31 Ann Arbor Farm & Garden......................... 17 Assoc. of Professional Gardeners...........41 Auburn Oaks Gard Ctr................................. 37 Barson’s Greenhouse...................................29 Bloom! Garden Ctr.......................................... 12 Blossoms............................................................39 Bogie Lake Greenhouses.............................19 Bonide..................................Inside Back Cover Campbell’s Greenhouses............................19 Christian’s Greenhouse...............................14 Contender’s Tree/Lawn Specialists........7 Cranbrook House & Gardens................... 33 Destinations: Ann Arbor.............................16 Destinations: Downriver............................ 27 Destinations: I-96..........................................43 Destinations: Macomb............................... 35 Detroit Garden Works..................................10 Downtown Home & Garden..................... 37 Earthly Arts........................................................41 Eckert’s Greenhouse.....................................19 EcoChic Landscape Design.......................42 English Gardens......................................Page 3 Espoma............................................................... 25 Everlastings in the Wildwood.................. 25

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The Flower Market........................................39 Fraleigh’s Landscape Nursery.................39 The Garden Company..................................21 The Garden Mill...............................................41 Garden Rhythms............................................42 A Garden Space...............................................10 Grass Magic..................................................... 23 Haley Stone Supply.......................................34 Heavenly Scent Herb Farm........................21 Heritage Oaks................................................... 31 Hessell’s Greenhouses...................................6 Hidden Lake Gardens.................................. 33 Howell Farmer’s Market..............................41 Iron Barn Iron Work......................................42 LACASA Center............................................. 23 Lake Orion Lawn Ornaments................... 25 Matthaei Botanical Gardens....................34 Merrittscape.................................................... 23 Michigan Green Industry Assoc............ 32 Michigan Nursery/Landscp Assoc...... 33 Milarch Nursery...............................................11 Mulligan’s Garden Ctr..................................39 Organimax..........................................................11 Orion Stone Depot.........................................21 Osmocote.........................Inside Front Cover Piechnik’s Greenhouse..................................11 Plantskydd.......................................................... 17

Plymouth Nursery..........................................21 The Pond Place/Beauchamp......................5 Proven Winners Color Choice....................9 Ray Hunter Garden Ctr................................ 32 Reidelbach Gardens.....................................39 Rock Shoppe........................................................6 Rocks ‘n’ Roots.................................................19 Schuman Landscape Lighting.................. 37 Schwartz’s Greenhouse............................... 13 Sell Farms & Greenhouses...........................8 Soil Reef Biochar.............................................39 Specialty Growers.......................................... 12 State Crushing................................................. 23 Steinkopf Nursery........................................... 15 Stone Cottage Gardens...............................42 Suburban Landscape Supply....................29 Telly’s Greenhouse...........................................4 Tropical Treasures.........................................28 Turner’s Landscp & Gard Ctr....................29 Tuthill Farms & Composting......................41 Uncle Luke’s Feed Store.............................. 37 Van Atta’s Greenhouse............................... 25 Warmbier Farms............................................29 The Weed Lady................................................14 Westcroft Gardens....................................... 32 Wojo’s.................................................................. 13

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Julia Hofley

Superbells Holy Moly!

Mandevilla Summer Romance Double Pink

The colors of this sassy little plant (Calibrachoa) went perfectly with my combination planter at the back door, which we enjoyed every time we came and went last summer. It also garnered visitor comments as they couldn’t help but notice ‘Holy Moly!’ and its unusual, brightly variegated flowers. Its shape was rounded and it was a good neighbor to the other plants in the container, not needing any cutting back or shaping. Gardeners will have fun making combinations with this cheerful continuous bloomer, and hummingbirds will enjoy the flower show too. Height: 6-12 inches. Width: 12-24 inches. Light: Full sun to part sun.

The blowsy blooms of softly ruffled pink, suffused with the lightest hints of white, was one of most memorable sights I saw last summer. No wonder it’s an award winner! This sturdy vine has a vigorous climbing and spreading habit. But it’s the large, double flowers that give this familiar vine a different look and, I’ll admit it, a feeling of romance was in the air, even without fragrance. This one has a similar habit to a benchmark mandevilla, ‘Alice Du Pont.’ Mandevillas do wonderfully well on trellises, in large containers with an obelisk, or up teepees made of three sturdy stakes secured at the top. They just love to climb and they need a support structure to give them something on which to get a foothold. Then, as the summer begins to really heat up and the humidity is high, they show you what they’re really made of! Make room for this one and keep it fertilized throughout the season for the most consistent number of blooms. Hummingbird and butterfly friendly. Height: 18-40 inches. Width: 12-18 inches. Light: Full sun.

Proven Winners

Julia Hofley

Coleus Campfire

Ball Horticultural Co.

This new one is brought to us from the same breeding folks who produced the sun-loving coleus Henna, and personal favorites Redhead and Wasabi. A vigorous specimen with a strong branching habit, Campfire is a rusty orange-red coleus that takes on the hues of glowing embers. Its smoky color makes it perfect to be viewed from a distance, either in a large container as it was last summer up on our hillside garden or as a flashy stalwart in a landscape bed. Just imagine all the combinations you could make with Campfire as the thriller or backdrop. Like the other coleus mentioned, this plant is a very late bloomer, if at all, and that makes it low maintenance. Campfire holds its sultry color more in part sun; in shade it may get a little green edging. Height: 18-24 inches. Width: 16-28 inches. Light: Sun to shade.

Ball Horticultural Co.

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Michigan Gardener | May 2016 | MichiganGardener.com

Vinca Soiree collection

continued from page 18

Cordyline ‘Electric Flash’ Another flashy foliage plant from Down Under, ‘Electric Flash’ (Cordyline banksii) follows ‘Electric Pink’ and ‘Electric Star.’ This one is actually a more subtle stripe, like the perfect summer suit that makes everyone look good. This new thriller plant does the same—it is perfect in a large container and helps other annual and tropical companion plants look better. The narrow leaves are creamy green with a chocolate-colored central stripe and cream-colored margins. If our season stays warm long enough into autumn, it may produce a cream-colored flower. Needs good drainage. Height: 18-24 inches. Width: Up to 36 inches. Light: Full sun.

This exciting new collection of vinca (Catharanthus) caught the eye of many at the shows and trial gardens last summer. This is with good reason, as they truly looked like plants that we hadn’t seen before and created quite a buzz. There are three series and all have a neat upright habit with deep green, glossy foliage that keeps its shape. The plants don’t need to be pinched back, helping to keep them low maintenance. All of them have full flower coverage with vividly striking colors and will bloom spring through the first frost. Like classic vincas, they tolerate heat and humidity, attract butterflies, and prefer good drainage. These plants would make good filler components in both containers and flower beds, as they look good and grow well with other plants.

SOIREE CROWN The most unusual of the flowers, these have flower petal edges resembling a crown. Both colors stand out, but the pink has a finer texture. My first impression was that they looked like little poinsettias. Available in pink and rose. Height: 6-10 inches. Width: 12-18 inches. Light: Full sun.

Suntory Flowers

Soiree Crown Pink

Suntory Flowers

Soiree Kawaii Pink Peppermint

SOIREE KA-WA-I-I

Suntory Flowers

Soiree Double Pink

SOIREE DOUBLE GreenFuse Botanicals

This series has a fuller flower with the added dimension of a ruffled center row. This comes in pink, white and orchid. Height: 10-14 inches. Width: 20-25 inches. Light: Full sun.

This name means “cute” in Japanese and that’s exactly what it is. How charming it would be in flower boxes where you’d see a carpet of these diminutive flowers up close. They come in pink, coral, lavender, pink peppermint and pure white. Height: 6-10 inches. Width: 12-18 inches. Light: Full sun. NEW ANNUALS continued on page 22

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Michigan Gardener | May 2016 | MichiganGardener.com

Bidens: What’s the Big Buzz?

continued from page 20

Classic gold and yellow bidens have been a well-behaved “filler” plant used in our combination containers for years. They have many good qualities that we count on, like a long blooming season and self-cleaning flowers. Plus, they are loved by bees. Even with all that going for them, the times they are a-changin’ for bidens. The breeders have brought some new varieties to the table that have virtually reinvented the plant’s image. These breakthrough bidens have new genetics, a noticeably new look, and improved garden performance. They’ve introduced unusual colors, larger flowers, and a higher flower count. Further, the flowers are above the foliage, not lost in it. The plants have a vigorous habit, are disease resistant, and are in continuous bloom even into the fall, although cooler temperatures may influence the flower color hues. Prepare for this plant to move from the chorus line in your planter to the stage front as starring diva. This plant is just taking off with exciting breeding possibilities. Coming down the pike, look for flowers that are white, pink and white-bicolored, as well as doubles.

Suntory Flowers

BIDENS BEEDANCE PAINTED RED This plant won the Innovation Award at the prestigious IPM Essen Show in Germany for best new bedding and balcony plant. Those Europeans know all about gorgeous balcony plants, and that says a lot for this modern plant to get that award. Although the Beedance series seed is sterile, it is not pollen sterile and truly attracts bees. At the California trials, attendees commented that the Beedance bidens were buzzing with happy bees all over them. Admirers also noticed there was a soft honey fragrance emitted by the Painted Red variety. Weather temperatures may influence color—warmer weather blooms have yellow centers and red orange tips, while cooler weather blooms are more solid red-orange. Height: 9-11 inches. Width: Up to 4 feet. Light: Full sun.

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Hibiscus ‘Little Zin’ The dark burgundy foliage color on this diminutive thriller is reminiscent of red zinfandel wine. This hibiscus is grown for the foliage drama, not for the flowers. It makes a fine backdrop plant or thriller in a medium-sized container, as it doesn’t get too tall and holds its shape. It is landscape worthy planted in clusters of threes or as a burgundy swath of color in beds and borders, but planted alone as one in a perennial bed, I think it would get lost. ‘Little Zin’ would also be an attractive plant to outline a patio or walkway like a small, dark shrub. Many annual combinations will benefit from the contrast ‘Little Zin’ brings to the mix. Height: 18-24 inches. Width: 18-24 inches. Light: Full sun.

Suntory Flowers

BIDENS BEEDANCE RED STRIPE

Proven Winners

BIDENS CAMPFIRE FIREBURST This novel, scarlet-orange and yellow bicolored flower will give gardeners a fresh palette to work with when building container combinations or designing the garden path. It has all the qualities that we admire about bidens—including heat tolerance—and its mounding habit will make it a showy filler. The petals will be a burnt orange color in early spring and fall with cooler weather. Height: 8-12 inches. Width: 18-24 inches. Light: Full sun.

This eye-catching new series of bicolor bidens has a mounding, spreading habit that will need a good-sized container to fill and spill over. The plant has dense branching and short internodes that create a manageable growth habit and high flower count. In the warmest weather, the flowers may be more yellow and the unique red stripes may be more visible in cooler temperatures. Red Stripe is slightly more compact than Beedance Painted Red. Height: 9-11 inches. Width: Up to 3 feet. Light: Full sun. NEW ANNUALS continued on page 24

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The Year of the Begonia

continued from page 22

The National Gardening Bureau has chosen the begonia as its 2016 annual plant of the year. They select plants that are easy to grow and genetically diverse with many new varieties to choose from, and begonias fit the bill. Here are just a few of the new begonia varieties available in Michigan greenhouses this season. Benary

BEGONIA SAN FRANCISCO Begonia boliviensis was originally found on an expedition in the Bolivian Andes in the 1860s and caused quite a stir at the International Horticultural Show in Paris in 1867. From that very plant, English breeders went on to cross it and create the first hybrid tuberous begonia, making Begonia boliviensis one of the parents to so many begonias that we enjoy in our gardens today. Begonia boliviensis ‘San Francisco’ has the traditional nodding flowers that virtually

Sakata Seed

Celosia Dragon’s Breath The talk of the trial gardens and trade shows last summer was this head-turning plant that satisfied both foliage and flower gardeners alike. It won the prestigious Industry Choice Award at Cultivate 2015, the largest trade show for annuals. Even though this plant is a late season bloomer, the foliage performs double duty during early to midsummer as a thriller in containers or as a colorful backdrop to other heat- and sun-loving annuals in flower beds and borders. Watch for the fiery explosion of large, feathery plumes of reddish-burgundy flowers, which last through August, September, October, and into November, weather pending. ‘Dragon’s Breath’ blooms so profusely that you can cut flowers for a pretty vase indoors. This bewitching plant thrives best with baking hot sun, Midwestern humidity, little water and less fertilizer. If it’s fed too much, its dark leaves lose their reddish-purple coloring and turn green. By restricting water, it tends to bloom more. Height: 20-24 inches. Width: 14-16 inches. Light: Full sun.

blanket the plant with 2- to 3-inch, subtle bicolor blooms of bright salmon-red to coral pink. This floriferous plant was favored in trial gardens since it is low maintenance, heat tolerant, provides a long season of continuous bloom, and looks handsome in both hanging baskets or in combination containers as a spiller in different light locations. Height: 12-16 inches. Width: 16-20 inches. Light: Full sun to part shade.

Benary

BEGONIA BIG ROSE GREEN LEAF When you first see this hybrid wax begonia on the greenhouse bench, you will think it’s nothing new, as it looks like a classic bedding begonia that we’ve all been planting for years. We wrote about it a few years back and we’ve had the fun of growing it in our garden ever since and finding it to be the perfect impatiens alternative. This Big series is an interspecific hybrid that brings together the best from angel wing begonias and fibrous begonia hybrids: increased flowering, larger flowers, vigorous growth, and amazing garden performance from May to frost. There is already Big pink and red with green leaves and Big pink, red and rose in bronze leaf, but this year, there’s a Big rose with green leaves. It can take sun or shade. I loved having it come up around my astilbe collection when they were done blooming and in between hostas and ferns to add some long-distance, landscape-level color you could see from across the yard. I like the green leaf so I am looking forward to trying out this new rose color in and amongst our shady perennial hillside garden. Height: 14-20 inches. Width: 12-18 inches. Light: Full sun to part shade.

Julia Hofley

BEGONIA ‘AUTUMN EMBER’ This sultry rhizomatous begonia was found on the benches of Logee’s Greenhouse in Connecticut. That means something in the begonia world, since that family has been selling trendy begonias to generations of indoor gardeners. The legacy lives on with this generation. Today, lucky gardeners can find ‘Autumn Ember’ here in Michigan on greenhouse benches. When I first saw this plant, I couldn’t believe my eyes. It was truly a russetcinnamon color with a reddish underside. I could immediately picture the myriad of combinations I could create with this plant as the inspiration. That spurred on a theme for all of our entrance containers and then the fun began, continuing with our enjoyment throughout the summer. The juvenile orange leaves emerge with a blast of color. With good light exposure, the

leaves maintain their coloring as they mature. Their compact nature keeps the growth habit tight. Just imagine a “collar” of this beauty at the base of a ‘Gartenmeister’ fuchsia for an amazing hummingbird dinner invitation. ‘Autumn Ember’ is grown for the outstanding foliage, but if grown as a houseplant over the winter, it may produce sprays of light pink flowers as the Victorians once enjoyed. It prefers to dry out between waterings and pinching it will help keep its form with age. My plants never required pinching throughout last summer. Some older leaves took on a little greenish tone but were topped with colorful new growth on top. They overwintered indoors near a bright windowsill and are looking forward to a vacation outdoors again this summer in east-facing wall baskets. Height: 12 inches. Width: 12 inches. Light: Morning sun to part shade. NEW ANNUALS continued on page 26

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continued from page 24

Coleus ColorBlaze Apple Brandy Dense, colorful leaves are ablaze on this coleus with an upright habit and good heat tolerance. The dramatic foliage of burgundy bronze centers outlined with lime green edges would add a dash of rich color and have the stature to be planted in between shade plants like hostas or ferns in the landscape. Small, new leaves filling in and up the stem under the older leaves, provide texture and fullness, making Apple Brandy a good thriller in a container viewed from different perspectives. It is late to flower in the season, which keeps pinching maintenance to a minimum. Height: 24-34 inches. Width: 12-16 inches. Light: Sun to shade.

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Dianthus Jolt Pink

Dianthus Jolt Pink and Jolt Cherry I love an old-fashioned cottage garden plant that reseeds in my garden and try to keep them going as long as I can. Dianthus barbatus is commonly called sweet William and first appeared with that name in a catalog in the 1500s, so it is a plant with a history. Jolt Pink and Jolt Cherry (Dianthus barbatus interspecific) take that nostalgic plant and add some modern benefits to the garden bed, border or container. First, this sweet William has been crossed with an annual dianthus to produce a species that has larger, self-cleaning flowers that don’t set seed, which equals less deadheading. This vigorous, well-branched plant is more free flowering and has superior heat tolerance, giving it better garden performance during the dog days of summer. It flowers about 10 to 15 days earlier than traditional annual types, bounces back in spite of damaging weather, and reportedly blooms through frost. Pollinators will especially seek out these longlasting flowers. The overall look of the plant has terrific color saturation in both the upright, glossy green foliage to the classic flower texture with serrated

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Dianthus Jolt Cherry petals surrounding a dark pink starburst in the center. What’s also new is the “jolt” of the two colors—especially Jolt Pink—that won “Best of the Trials” prize last year in All-America Selections trial gardens. All this good news doesn’t mean we have to give up what we love about sweet Williams: the slightly sweet scent, still making it perfect as a cut flower. Height: 16-20 inches. Width: 12-14 inches. Light: Full sun.

The rex begonia vine (Cissus discolor) has been a favorite of many discerning gardeners over the years. Originally from Southeast Asia and Australia, it’s a heat and humidity lover, making it more fit for conservatories and greenhouses. But what a great idea to move it over to the annual section in garden centers and feature it as a foliage annual for our humid Midwestern summers! It’s perfect for training up an obelisk, trellis or tripod. If you do that, expect it to get large. The other option would be to use it as a spiller in a good-sized container, hanging basket, or wall basket. I can think of many ways to use rex begonia vine outdoors. Its foliage drama is excellent for gardeners always on the hunt for something colorful and unusual for the shade. Rex begonia vine is actually not from the begonia family but rather the grape family. The pretty red tendrils that grab onto whatever support you give it will show you the relation. Strikingly colored, the quilted leaves are 4 to 6 inches long with a sunken, shimmering network of moss-green veins and elevated ridges painted purple with a velvet sheen. Flip over the leaves and the show continues with a flowing maroon. This gorgeous foliage vine is best in temperatures above 60 degrees. Margaret Roach, from “A Way to Garden,” describes it as being as beautiful as a stained glass window. Height: Up to 10 feet. Width: 12 inches. Light: Part shade.

Milkweed Monarch Promise This noteworthy new, tropical milkweed (Asclepias) hails to us from Florida with unusually pretty green and white variegated leaves that are tinged with red, orange and pink leaf tips. Nice! There is lots of added value here as it has the classic bright orange and red flowers that attract butterflies, bees and hummingbirds as the summer days and nights heat up, mimicking its natural habitat. Monarch Promise is a low maintenance plant that will work in both containers and the landscape. The hope for this plant is that its new look will draw more attention from all gardeners, who will consider using a desirable pollinator plant as an ornamental thriller in containers or as a bedding plant. In turn, this will help raise awareness about the issues facing our Monarch butterfly populations in North and South America. Height: 30 inches. Width: 15 inches. Light: Full sun to part sun. Julia Hofley is a plant collector, freelance garden writer, lecturer, and independent sales rep (E-mail: julia@juliasbiglife.com).

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Pinter Flowerland 6830 Rawsonville Rd. Belleville, MI 48111 734-482-2776 www.pinterflowerland.com May/June hours: Open 7 days a week; please call for hours Buy direct from the grower—that means great quality and low prices. Family owned and operated since 1926. Annuals, hanging baskets, containers, perennials, garden supplies, soils, mulches, and much more. 13 acres of covered shopping—stay dry when it’s raining! Come see us at our Redford location also (313-538-7580).

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Schoedel’s Nursery 20900 Merriman Rd., Romulus, MI 48174 734-753-4150 www.schoedelsnursery.com May/June hours: Mon-Fri 9-6, Sat 9-5, Sun 10-4 A third-generation, family run business since 1949. Our 5-acre nursery has one of the largest selections in the area: ornamental and shade trees, specialty shrubs, broadleaf evergreens, and conifers. From the common to the unusual. There is something for everyone. 1 mile South of Sibley Rd.

Schwartz’s Greenhouse 30705 Sibley Rd., Romulus, MI 48174 734-753-9269 www.schwartzgreenhouse.com May hours: Mon-Sat 9-8, Sun 9-6. June: Call for hours Our specialty is spectacular hanging baskets! Discover flowers & plants at great prices! Bedding plants, roses, vegetable plants, herbs, perennials, container gardens, porch planters, and gardening supplies. Over 12 acres of greenhouses and 2 acres of shopping! 1/2 mile West of Middlebelt.

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Westcroft Gardens 21803 West River Rd., Grosse Ille, MI 48138 734-676-2444 www.westcroftgardens.com May/June hours: Mon-Fri 8-7, Sat 9-7, Sun 10-5 Visit Michigan’s oldest farm still owned & operated by the same family, established 1776. Specializing in our own hybrids of azaleas & rhododendrons that grow well in Michigan. Also trees, shrubs, perennials, annuals, herbs & vegetables. Our Greenleaf Compound will acidify & improve your soil. Stroll our botanical garden.

Zywicki Greenhouse 50705 Willow Rd., Belleville, MI 48111 734-461-6197 www.zywickigreenhouse.com May/June hours: Open 7 days a week, 9-7 Zywicki’s has served lower Michigan for over 50 years with quality annuals, perennials, hanging baskets, planters, window boxes, vegetable plants and roses. 200 varieties of vegetable and herb plants. Over 400 varieties of annuals, perennials, and hanging baskets. When it’s quality you need, it’s Zywicki’s indeed!

Michigan Gardener | May 2016 | MichiganGardener.com

for the birds Goldfinches

he American goldfinch remains one of the most beloved birds at our feeders. With their bright yellow color, dainty behavior, and uplifting song, their popularity is understandable. Their flight pattern is distinctive as well: bouncy and undulating, often accompanied by their flight call which sounds as if they are saying “perchickaree” or “potato chip.”

Habitat and feeding

Goldfinches will eat both nyjer (thistle) and sunflower seeds. A combination of both sunflower and nyjer seed is a great way to satisfy their need for fat and protein. If house sparrows, with their large flock numbers, are becoming a challenge to your goldfinches, try using the feeders designed for the goldfinches to feed upside down. A goldfinch’s body is built so that it can readily adapt to feeding upside down, something which is more challenging for house sparrows. You can further make your finch feeders more sparrow-resistant by trimming the perches down to one inch.

Often referred to as wild canaries, these birds can easily be attracted to your yard with their favorite plants as well as birdfeeders. The Rosann goldfinches’ natural habitats are Kovalcik Nest building weedy fields and floodplains. American goldfinches are the only finch Goldfinches are not an aggressive bird in that molts their feathers twice per year. their feeding areas, both natural and at your March is the time to look for the males to feeders. Giving them a space where their appear with sporadic, bright yellow feathers feeder is not as close to others will decrease replacing their khaki camouflage feathers. the chances of them being chased away.

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Male goldfinch. Goldfinches will also grow new tail and wing feathers, unlike many birds that molt feathers with the exception of those two areas. Creating these additional feathers requires a great deal of food and energy, with the molt taking six weeks to complete. This explains why they may use feeders so heavily in the spring as a supplement to natural foods. Nesting soon after this monumental physical change of molt would be physically draining, and is the reason that goldfinches nest in late June and July. The female selects the nest site, builds the nest, lays the eggs, and incubates without the help of the male. She feeds the young for the first 4 or 5 days. Constructed of small grasses and soft, downy material, the base of the nest is attached to the twigs with spider webs for strength. The average clutch size is five eggs, which are incubated for 12 days. The fledgling period that the chicks spend in the nest being fed by their parents is also around 12 days. Young goldfinches are one of the few birds that are fed a diet of seeds only, with no protein in the form of insects. Young goldfinches are very vocal in their efforts to be fed—listen to the birds in your yard and you will hear the babies chiming out their “chippee, chippee” quite regularly. Having a total seed diet creates a real thirst in these birds. A birdbath with a shallow area gives goldfinches the ability to bathe at a depth that they can handle. Placing a few rocks inside your birdbath to copy a natural streamside setting is a perfect way to entice goldfinches. Clean, fresh water is essential to the birds’ health. So, a daily brushing, rinse and refill of the birdbath is your best strategy.

Droll Yankee

A goldfinch’s body is built so that it can readily adapt to feeding upside down.

Garden plants that attract goldfinches Creating a garden for goldfinches is easy. The seeds of plants in the Asteraceae (Compositae) family are a sure bet. Try black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta), purple coneflower (Echinacea purpurea), Joe Pye weed (Eutrochium), cutleaf coneflower (Rudbeckia laciniata), and cup plant (Silphium perfoliatum). A favorite in my yard is woodland sunflower (Helianthus divaricatus)—sometimes I can count a dozen golden-feathered beauties mixed in with the equally bright flowers. Native thistle is very attractive to goldfinches, not only for a food source, but the down of the plant is used as a lining for their nest. Try field thistle (Cirsium discolor), Flodman’s thistle (Cirsium flodmanii) and wavyleaf thistle (Cirsium undulatum). Enjoy the beauty that goldfinches bring to your yard and garden. Rosann Kovalcik is a Certified Birdfeeding Specialist and the owner of Wild Birds Unlimited in Grosse Pointe Woods, MI (www.wbu.com/ grossepointewoods).

Warmbier Farms

2nd generation, family-owned, since 1967

Everything for your Garden, Home, and You

We grow our own annuals & perennials: You are buying fresh directly from the grower—quality guaranteed!

COME SHOP OUR INCREDIBLE 2 ACRES OF GREENHOUSES!

At Warmbier Farms, there’s always something NEW for you!

• • • •

We feature over 2,000 different cement garden statues in our outdoor showroom, all made here in Michigan by us! Plus, come see our mind-boggling selection of garden decor, arbors, gazing globes, furniture, and so much more.

Spring is Here Available seasonally, we have a wonderful assortment of perennials, herbs & annuals. Plus roses! Over 100 varieties each year, including hybrid teas, floribundas, grandifloras, shrubs & miniatures.

Centrally located between Saginaw/Bay City/Midland

5300 Garfield Rd. • Auburn, MI

989-662-7002 www.warmbierfarms.com

Garden Center Nursery Landscaping

Area’s largest selection of annuals & perennials Fully stocked nursery Fairy garden plants & accessories Pottery, Campania statuary, granite benches & birdbaths

4431 South Wagner Rd, Ann Arbor, MI 48103

734-663-7600 • turnersannarbor.com

If that’s not enough, come on inside! Our huge showroom is a decorators delight! A great selection of silk florals, boutique clothing & jewelry, resin statues, and seasonal decor. Plus, one-of-a-kind wreaths and arrangements created right here by our talented designers.

get your yard ready!

HEADING UP NORTH?

We’re just 7 minutes off of I-75!

ORDER NOW FOR OUR SPRING SPECIALS Quality Products At Wholesale Pricing SAME DAY DELIVERY

Celebrating

36 YEARS

in business! • Perennials– Flat of 18 $ 3999 Mix & Match • New! Native Plant section • Large Selection of plants to attract hummingbirds, butterflies & all other pollinators

NOW AVAILABLE!

Geopots Fabric Pots 3, 5, 7 & 10-Gal sizes Vertical 1, 2 & 4-tier hanging gardens

• Heirloom, Organic & Non-GMO Seeds • Huge selection of organic amendments & fertilizers • Hanging Baskets • Vegetables & Herbs • Huge line of perennials– Lots of NEW varieties! • Great selection of 4" Annuals • Worm Castings • Greenview 2- & 4-Step lawn fertilizer

At Suburban, Your Satisfaction Is Guaranteed! Call early for same-day delivery

248-960-4000

For great looking plants all summer, use what we use—Jack’s Classic from J.R. Peters, Inc.

960 Ladd Rd • Walled Lake

Brenda’s Butterfly Habitat is filled with butterflies, and host and nectar plants that are native to the area. You will see the complete life cycle of these winged beauties in all stages of their metamorphosis!

EXPANDED SELECTION

of Miniature & Fairy Gardening supplies, plus beautiful stone houses

6414 N. Merriman • Westland, MI Located between Ford and Warren

734-421-5959 • www.barsons.com Check our website for sales & seminar dates/times

We carry: Mulch • Soil • Sand Stone • Boulders/Ledgestone Decorative Stone Pavers Accessories and more!

ORDER ONLINE AT SuburbanLandscapeSupply.com

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Michigan Gardener | May 2016 | MichiganGardener.com

our years ago I returned to Michigan after living in Chicago, Denver and Hoboken, New Jersey for 12 years. My entire adult life had been lived in cozy apartments, but after two years back, I took the plunge and became a homeowner. Closing in November left about six months to plan my first garden. There was a lot to be done, but I happily put in the work: reading books, plotting beds, buying compost, and planting seedlings that I watered and watched in the bay window of my kitchen for 6 to 8 weeks. What a miracle a seedling is! I remember my first garden being a huge success. While I had my share of failures, I also enjoyed my share of kale, green beans, carrots, beets, basil and rosemary. My most memorable successEmily es were parsley and arugula. Snipping Wilson leaves right off the stems offered freshness and flavor so distinct, it was unlike anything I had ever experienced before. In honor of my first garden and arugula, I created this recipe. Arugula is great in salads or sandwiches, but also stands up well to cooking. When paired with bold ingredients like feta and pine nuts it’s taken to a whole new level.

Growing tips: Arugula • Arugula likes cool weather and can be planted as early as April once daytime temperatures reach above 40 degrees. It grows best in a sunny location though it tolerates some shade, particularly when summer temperatures rise. • Like most leafy greens, arugula requires rich, well-drained soil for best results. Before planting, add compost to the soil. Fertilize as you would for lettuce or other leafy greens. • When arugula begins to flower, the flavor becomes more intense. At some point it may be stronger than you like, which means its time to take it out and wait for the next cool season to plant (early spring or fall). • Arugula grows fast. Set plants in the sunny garden in early spring for spring harvest or late summer for fall harvest. Plants prefer the cooler days of spring or fall. • Once plants have several sets of leaves, you can begin harvesting. Don’t pull the entire plant, but take a few leaves from each so you’ll have a continuous supply. • Another advantage to growing arugula from seed is that you can make new plantings every two to three weeks to keep the supply going all summer.

Emily Wilson is Chef/Owner of Guest Chef, a personal chef and catering service in Metro Detroit. Guest Chef is the marriage of Emily’s prior work experiences, including seven years catering at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York and four years developing recipes for CookingPlanit.com. Tying it all together, she now plans and caters events ranging from weeknight family meals to 5-course dinner parties. Contact Emily at Emily@GuestChefDetroit. com or learn more at http://www.GuestChefDetroit.com and Instagram/GuestChef_Det.

MichiganGardener.com | May 2016 | Michigan Gardener

Locally owned. Locally grown. Arugula, Pine Nuts and Feta stuffed Chicken with Panko-Herb Crust Serves 4 Ingredients: • 4 cups arugula, rinsed and dried • 1/2 cup pine nuts (or pistachios) • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt • 1/8 teaspoon black pepper • 4 chicken breast cutlets, about 3-4 ounces each • 1/2 cup creamy feta • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil For the breading: • 2 cups panko breadcrumbs • 3 large eggs • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped Instructions: 1. Preheat oven to 375°F. 2. In the bowl of a food processor fitted with the standard blade attachment, pulse the pine nuts and arugula to make a crumbly mix. Season with salt and pepper and pulse one or two more times to incorporate. (See photo A) 3. Prepare a sheet pan with a light layer of extra virgin olive oil. 4. Crack the eggs into a large, wide bowl and whisk well. Mix the panko and chopped parsley together in another large, wide bowl. Arrange the prepared sheet pan and bowls of egg and panko near your work station.

5. Lay the chicken cutlets flat on a cutting board. Season both sides with salt and pepper. Spread about 1-2 tablespoons of feta evenly over each cutlet. Next, cover the feta with a layer of arugula-pine nut mixture. Starting with the end nearest to you, roll up each chicken cutlet and secure with a toothpick. (See photo B) 6. Dip each roll of chicken into the egg and turn to coat on all sides. Lift and gently shake off excess egg, then transfer to the bowl of panko. Carefully turn the chicken to coat with panko on all sides, then set on the prepared sheet pan with the seam side down. Repeat until all chicken is coated, spacing the chicken so they are not touching each other. (See photo C) 7. Drizzle about 1 teaspoon of olive oil over the top of each chicken roll, then place in the oven and bake until an instant-read thermometer reads 165 degrees, about 30-35 minutes. If desired, to achieve more browning on the top, once chicken is cooked all the way through, switch oven to broil and place chicken in oven for 1-2 minutes just until golden brown. 8. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before removing toothpicks. (See photo D) 9. Remove toothpicks and place each piece of chicken on a dinner plate. Or, slice them crosswise and arrange fanned out as shown. Serve and enjoy!

The finished product with a side of asparagus—delicious!

Head here first. You’ll be inspired, encouraged, and pleased with the quality and cost of our own homegrown annuals, vegetables, perennials, hanging baskets and planters… all planted or potted and nurtured right on site. We have heirlooms of all genres, plus a remarkable variety of fruit trees, small fruits, flowering shrubs, climbing vines, and an expanded selection of herbs, roses, and fairy garden plants and whimsies. We’re just north of Ann Arbor, right off U.S. 23… a destination well worth the drive.

6925 Whitmore Lake Rd. Whitmore Lake, MI Corner of N. Territorial & Whitmore Lake Rd.

Providing dedication and quality since 1978

734-741-1064

Westcroft Gardens

calendar

Call us to reserve our gardens for your wedding, party or special event

21803 W. River Rd., Grosse Ile 734-676-2444 www.westcroftgardens.com

FOR INFORMATION ABOUT PUBLIC GARDENS, please visit MichiganGardener.com. Click on "Resources" then "Public Gardens."

May / June / July

PLANT NURSERY

Come visit the oldest farm in Michigan still owned and operated by the same family, established 1776

Michigan Gardener | May 2016 | MichiganGardener.com

May

Trees • Shrubs • Herbs Perennials • Annuals Vegetables • Azaleas Rhododendrons Botanical Gardens Farmers Market • Halloween Rides

Since 1919

FLORIST & GARDEN Proven Winners Select Hanging Baskets & Planters • Annuals • Perennials Great selection of Weeks Roses • Garden Statuary & Accents • Flowering shrubs

Heirloom Tomatoes

One of our specialties. Our staff personally selects and grows tomato plants, including heirlooms, old favorites, and the latest hybrids–over 100 varieties this season! Come pick out a plant or two for your garden and taste the difference.

16153 Eureka, Southgate, MI 48195 • 734-284-2500 www.rayhuntergardenshop.com • Mon-Sat 9-7 Sun 10-5

Don’t Let Your Green Thumb Feel Blue: Gardening Shouldn’t Hurt Sun, May 1, 2pm, Haslett. By Friends of the Haslett Library at Haslett Library. MSU Physical Therapist Mary Thiel discusses gardening-related injuries & tips to prevent injuries. 517-339-0703. Intro to Pollinators Mon, May 2, 1pm, Farmington. By Farmington Garden Club at Vagnozzi Visitor’s Center in Heritage Park. Presentation with emphasis on the Polyphemus Moth. 248-477-3854, fgc1932@gmail.com. Tykes Preschool Program - In the Garden Tue, May 3, 9-11am, Ann Arbor. At Leslie Science & Nature Ctr. $50/child. Ages 4-5. Learn about plants, sprout our own seeds, & visit the gardens. Register: 734-997-1553. Planning Now for Spring Tue, May 3, 9:30am, Waterford. By Waterford Garden Club at Waterford Senior Ctr. Heather Glenday teaches the basics of spring mulching, fertilizing & pruning. www.waterfordgardenclub.org. Protecting Your Shoreline: A Workshop for Inland Lakefront Property Owners Tue, May 3, 4:30-9pm, Weidman. By MSU Extension at Weidman Community Ctr. Natural shoreline landscaping & bio-engineered erosion control techniques. Please register. 989-539-7805. Habitat for Humanity 6th Annual Plant & Flower Sale Fri, May 6, 3-8pm, & Sat, May 7, 9am-5pm, Orion Charter Twp. By Habitat for Humanity Oakland Co. at Culver’s, 4963 Interpark Dr. N. Annuals, perennials, vegetables, herbs, trees, hanging baskets & more. 248-338-1843, ext. 303. H Lake Orion Flower & Art Fair Fri, May 6, 11am-8pm & Sat, May 7, 9am-6pm, Lake Orion. In Downtown Lake Orion. 60+ vendors to help you find the perfect Mother’s Day gift. www.DowntownLakeOrion.org. H Mother’s Day FREE KOI Fri, May 6, to Sun, May 8, Waterford Twp. At The Pond Place. One FREE KOI per mother with any $10 or more purchase, must be present to receive. Closing @ 3pm Sun. www.pondplace.com. H Cranbrook House Mother’s Day Tour & Lunch Fri, May 6, 10:45am, Bloomfield Hills. At Cranbrook House & Gardens. Treat your mom to a special springtime tour & lunch, complete with piano performance. Register: 248-645-3149. Project Grow Plant Sale Fri, May 6, to Sun, May 8, Ann Arbor. By Project Grow at Dawn Farm. Wide selection of heirloom tomatoes, basil, sweet & hot peppers. Advance orders: www.ProjectGrowGardens.org. H Kids, Plant Mom a Flower Sat, May 7, & Sun, May 8, 10am-4pm, Plymouth. At Plymouth Nursery. www.plymouthnursery.net. H Plant Sale Sat, May 7, 10am-2pm, Tipton. At Hidden Lake Gardens. Offering a wide selection of plants, including annuals, perennials, hostas & companions, herbs & more. hiddenlakegardens.msu.edu. Southeast Michigan Dahlia Society Tuber Sale Sat, May 7, 9am-Noon, Troy. By SE MI Dahlia Society at Telly’s Greenhouse Barn. All tubers reasonably priced. Come early for best selection in our area! judy892@wowway.com.

26th Annual Day Before Mother’s Day Plant & Bake Sale Sat, May 7, 9am-Noon, Milford. By Milford Garden Club at Johnson Elementary School. MGs on hand to answer ?’s. Proceeds benefit Huron Valley Resident HS Scholarships. Weedy Lawn & Garden Salad Sat, May 7, 10am, Ann Arbor. By Project Grow at County Farm Park at Platt Road Pavilion. See how garden weeds can impart flavor to your salads. Register: www.projectgrowgardens.org. H Mother’s Day Weekend Sale Sat, May 7, 10am-4:30pm, Ann Arbor. At Matthaei Botanical Gardens. Hanging baskets & container plantings grown & designed by our staff/volunteers. 734-6477600, mbgna.umich.edu. Clematis Pruning Workshop Sat, May 7, 10am, Detroit. At Black Cat Pottery. 1 hour of instruction & 1 hour of demo/hands-on supervised practice. Register: www.blackcatpottery.com. The Secret to Growing Healthy Crops Sat, May 7, 10am, Detroit. By The Greening of Detroit at The Detroit Market Garden. 2 hour class. Learn how to grow healthy vegetable crops. education@ greeningofdetroit.com. H Everything’s Coming up Roses! Sat, May 7, Plymouth. At Plymouth Nursery. 734-453-5500, www.plymouthnursery.net. H Bonsai Class & Workshop Sat, May 7, 1pm, Troy. At Telly’s. $35. Hands-on workshop, 1st & 2nd Sat of every month, attendees will create their own bonsai to enjoy for years to come. Register: 248-689-8735. Chelsea Area Garden Club Plant Sale Sat, May 7, 8am-Noon, Chelsea. By Chelsea Area GC at Chelsea Comm. Fairgrounds. Rain/shine. Perennials, wildflowers, daylilies, grasses & more. 734-475-9748. Spring Show + Sale Sat, May 7, & Sun, May 8, Noon-6pm, Pontiac. At Epiphany Glass Studio. Annual Mother’s Day Sale. 248-745-3786, www.epiphanyglass.com. South Lyon Plant Exchange Sat, May 7, 9am-11am, South Lyon. By 4 Seasons Garden Club at the Witch’s Hat Museum Pk. Area. Come swap with other gardeners. 248-437-0154. H Container Gardening Lecture & Workshop Sat, May 7, 10am, Shelby. At Telly’s. $5, plus materials. The Telly’s staff will dissect the process by which beautiful container combinations are created. Register: 248-689-8735. Cooking with Edible Flowers & Herbs Sun, May 8, 11:45am, Troy. By Troy Garden Club at Big Beaver United Methodist Church. $7. Annie Gruber shares edibles to add to your planting plan. Register: infoandideas@aol.com. Edible Flint: Garden Starter Kit Order Deadline Mon, May 9, Flint. By Edible Flint at MSU Extension Office. $15. Genesee residents pick up your application & pre-pay at the office. Kits valued at $85. www.edibleflint.org. H 44th Annual Spring Plant Sale Tue, May 10, 10am-7pm, & Wed, May 11, 10am-2pm, Bloomfield Hills. At Cranbrook Gardens. Herbs, tropicals, perennials, native plants/wildflowers & more. www.housegardens.cranbrook.edu.

Promote your events! Send us your information! Website: Go to MichiganGardener.com and click on “Garden Event Calendar” E-Mail: calendar@MichiganGardener.com Upcoming Issues & Deadlines: Issue

Deadline

June 2016 July 2016

May 15, 2016 June 15, 2016

MichiganGardener.com | May 2016 | Michigan Gardener

Livonia Garden Club Meeting Tue, May 10, 6:30pm, Livonia. By Livonia Garden Club at Livonia Civic Ctr. Making Seed Bombs with the Girl Scouts to earn their NGC Native Plants Badge. www.livoniagardenclub.org. Tykes Preschool Program - In the Garden Tue, May 10, 9-11am, Ann Arbor. At Leslie Science & Nature Ctr. $50/child. Ages 4-5. Learn about plants, sprout seeds, & visit the gardens. Register: 734-997-1553. Workshop: Protecting Your Shoreline Thu, May 12, 4:30-9pm, Cadillac. By MSU Extension at Johnson Hunting & Fishing Ctr. Natural shoreline landscaping & bio-engineered erosion control. Please register. 989-539-7805. 8th Annual Containers & Cocktails Thu, May 12, 6-9pm, Pontiac. At Goldner Walsh. $24/ person, plus cost of materials. 21+. Free your planting spirit & learn special tricks to create gorgeous containers. Register: 248-332-6430. Spring Floral Designs & Flower Arranging Techniques Thu, May 12, 7pm, Ferndale. By Ferndale GC at Kulick Community Center. Guests are welcome. Presented by Blumz by JR Designs. 248-541-6427. Henry Ford Estate Spring Plant Sale & Garden Market Fri, May 13, 10am-3pm & Sat, May 14, 9am-1pm, Dearborn. At The Henry Ford Estate. Unique perennials, wildflowers, shade plants, culinary herbs, annuals & much more. www.henryfordestate.org. Michigan All State Bonsai Show Fri, May 13, to Sun, May 15, Grand Rapids. At Frederik Meijer Gardens. More than 100 stunning bonsai will be on display in the Grand Room. 616-957-1580, www.meijergardens.org. H Kitchen Favorites Herb Sale Sat, May 14, & Sun, May 15, 10am-4:30pm, Ann Arbor. At Matthaei Botanical Gardens. Herbs, containers & heirlooms. Herb study group on hand to answer questions. www.mbgna.umich.edu. H Bonsai Class & Workshop Sat, May 14, 1pm, Pontiac. At Telly’s. $35. Hands-on workshop, 1st & 2nd Sat of every month, attendees will create their own bonsai to enjoy for years to come. Register: 248-689-8735. H Wildflowers for Your Garden Sat, May 14, 2pm, Tipton. At Hidden Lake Gardens. $20. Determine which wildflowers might be best for your garden. Register: 517-431-2060. H Show & Tell Rose Review 2016 Sat, May 14, 11am, Southgate. At Ray Hunter. FREE. Come & see our roses including teas, climbers, floribunda, bush & fragrant varieties. www.rayhunter.com. H Tea Cup Fairy Garden Sat, May 14, 2-4pm, Dexter. At Bloom! Garden Ctr. $20. All ages. lotusgardenscapes.com/EVENTS. H Customer Appreciation Day Sat, May 14, 9-7pm, North Branch. At Campbell’s Greenhouses. Music, sales & much more. www.campbellsgreenhouses.com. Willow Greenhouse Garden Expo Sat, May 14, 10am-4pm, Salem Twp. By The Four Seasons Garden Club at Willow Greenhouse. FREE. Speaker Karleen Shafer, pollination projects & more. www.WillowGreenhouse.com. Tykes Preschool Program - In the Garden Tue, May 17, 9-11am, Ann Arbor. At Leslie Science & Nature Ctr. $50/child. Ages 4-5. Learn about plants, sprout seeds, & visit the gardens. Register: 734-997-1553. Tree ID Class Wed, May 18, 6pm, Detroit. By The Greening of Detroit. Identify native trees/shrubs from bark to bud in this walk through Elmwood Cemetery or Rouge Park. citizenforesters@greeningofdetroit.com H Spring Combo Pot Thu, May 19, 6:30pm, Meridian Charter Twp. At Van Atta’s. $35. www.VanAttas.com. Spring Plant Sale Thu, May 19, 9-5pm, Waterford. By Waterford Garden Club at Wateford Senior Ctr. Perennials, herbs, succulents & more. www.waterfordgardenclub.org. Perennial Plant Sale & Fundraiser Thu, May 19, 9am-2pm, Rochester. By Meadow Brook Garden Club at Meadow Brook Hall. Michigan-grown plants, garden shop & more. 248-364-6210. Meridian Garden Club Plant Sale Fri, May 20, 9am-2pm, Meridian Twp. By Meridian Garden Club at Meridian Farmers Market pavilion. Experts on hand to answer ?’s. 100’s of plants from local gardeners. hatfield@msu.edu.

Harnessing Mother Nature’s Workforce— Beneficial Insects Fri, May 20, 9:15am, Rochester. By MBGC at Meadow Brook Hall. $5. Learn to recognize & maximize Mother Nature’s natural pest control. 248‑364‑6210, MBHGCMembers@gmail.com. H Brick Pavers, Walls & Steps Sat, May 21, 8am, Washington. At Rock ‘N’ Rocks. FREE. Rain or shine. www.RocksNRoots.com, 586-752-4900. H Vanda coerulea Orchids Sat, May 21, 11am, Ann Arbor. At Matthaei Botanical Gardens. A presentation by accredited judge Alex Challis on this genus of orchids also known as blue orchids. www.mbgna.umich.edu. Smart Vegetable Gardening Conference Sat, May 21, Noon, Tustin. By MSU Extension at Kettunen Ctr. $70. Topics include healthy soil, season extension & more. Register: 906-875-0606. Mushroom Cultivation Sat, May 21, 10am, Detroit. By The Greening of Detroit at Lafayette Greens. 2 hour class. Learn how to cultivate mushrooms. education@greeningofdetroit.com. Native Plant Sale Sat, May 21, 9-11:30am, St Clair Shores. By Yardeners at St Clair Shores Library. Attract birds, butterflies & bees with natives. scsyardeners@gmail.com. H Sustainable Gardening Practices Sat, May 21, 2pm, Tipton. At Hidden Lake Gardens. $20. Work with Mother Nature to create a more eco-friendly & sustainable landscape. Register: 517-431-2060. Growing Dahlias Sat, May 21, 3-5pm, Troy. By SE MI Dahlia Society at Telly’s Greenhouse Barn. Dahlia growing: planting, stalking & fertilizing. judy892@wowway.com. H MSU Annual Plant Sale Sat, May 21, 7am-2pm, East Lansing. At MSU Horticulture Gardens. Annuals, perennials, shrubs, vegetables, herbs, houseplants, hanging baskets, & combo pots. www.hrt.msu.edu. H The Basics of Veggie Gardens Sat, May 21, 11am, Southgate. At Ray Hunter. FREE. Paul Rodman demonstrates the basics of raising healthy, delicious vegetables in your own yard. 734-284-2500. H Painted Garden Pole Sat, May 21, 10am-12:30pm, Fenton. At Heavenly Scent Herb Farm. $68.75. All of the supplies you need to create your very own garden pole. www.heavenlyscentherbfarm.com. Plant Sharing Sat, May 21, 9-10am, Livonia. By Livonia Garden Club at Greenmead Historical Park. FREE. Come & share perennials, annual seeds & houseplants. Pot & label if possible. 734-425-6880. Dexter Green Day & Plant Sale Sat, May 21, 9am-2pm, Dexter. By Dexter Garden Club at Downtown. Perennials, shrubs, native plants & grasses. Gardening advice & local vendors. www.dextergardenclub.org. H Flower Power Sun, May 22, 2pm, Tipton. At Hidden Lake Gardens. $25/ family. Walk through the garden & tour the conservatory, then decorate a container & pot a flowering plant. Register: 517-431-2060. Who’s In My Backyard? Mon, May 23, 6:30-7:30, Clinton Twp. By MSUE at MSUE Assembly Room. $5. Learn all about birds with Pam Goros of Wild Birds Unlimited. 586-954-9998. Tykes Preschool Program - In the Garden Tue, May 24, 9-11am, Ann Arbor. At Leslie Science & Nature Ctr. $50/child. Ages 4-5. Learn about plants, sprout our own seeds, & visit the gardens. Register: 734-997-1553. H Seasonal Bonsai Workshop Wed, May 25, 7pm, Ann Arbor. By Ann Arbor Bonsai Society at Matthaei Botanical Gardens. At this workshop members/visitors perform seasonal work. AABonsaiSociety@gmail.com. H Animal Friends Wed, May 25, 10am, Tipton. At Hidden Lake Gardens. $8/child. Find out which animals live in our neighborhood on this nature hike. Register: 517-431-2060, hiddenlakegardens.msu.edu. Iris Show Sat, May 28, & Sun, May 29, Grand Rapids. At Frederik Meijer Gardens. View a variety of irises, from old favorites to new hybrids, grown by local enthusiasts. 616-957-1580. www.meijergardens.org. continued on next page

Herbs Tropicals Perennials Native Plants/Wildflowers & More!

Spring Plant Sale 44th Annual

May 10 • 10 am - 7 pm May 11 • 10 am - 2 pm

*$5 OFF*

Plant purchase of $30 or more. One coupon per guest. Exp. May 12, 2016

Cranbrook Gardens 380 Lone Pine Road, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48303 248 645.3149 • http://housegardens.cranbrook.edu

Plant Sale

Saturday, May 7, 10am-2pm

Offering a wide selection of plants, including Annuals, Perennials, Hostas & companions, Herbs, Conifers, Shrubs & Trees.

Come see THE HARPER COLLECTION:

A world-class collection of more than 500 dwarf & rare conifers

Botanical Garden & Arboretum • Hosta Hillside • Plant Conservatory Flower Gardens Picnic Area • Lake • Hiking Trails • Weddings & Tours by appointment 6214 Monroe Rd. (M-50) • Tipton, MI • OPEN DAILY

517-431-2060 • hiddenlakegardens.msu.edu

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Michigan Gardener | May 2016 | MichiganGardener.com

continued from previous page

MAY 2016 PLANT SALES MAY 7 & 8: MOTHER’S DAY WEEKEND SALE Hanging baskets and container plantings filled with a variety of colors and textures. Grown and designed by our staff and volunteers. 10 am-4:30, Matthaei MAY 14 & 15: KITCHEN FAVORITES SALE Herbs, herb containers, and heirloom vegetables. Proceeds support the U-M student gardening group Cultivating Community. Plus, Herb Study Group on hand with information on herbs. 10 am-4:30, Matthaei JUNE 4: PEONIES GALORE SALE Several varieties of locally grown heirloom peonies for sale, set amid the largest collection of heirloom peonies in North America. 10 am, Nichols Arboretum, 1610 Washington Hts. Ann Arbor

1800 N. Dixboro Rd., Ann Arbor 734.647.7600 mbgna.umich.edu

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3975 S. Rochester Rd. • Rochester Hills (JUST SOUTH OF M-59 )

248-852-5511 www.haleystone.net May/June hrs: Mon-Fri 8-6 • Sat 8-4 Sun 10-2 (Roch Hills only; Auburn Hills closed Sun)

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Annual Perennial Plant Sale Sat, May 28, 10am-1pm, Owosso. By Shaiwassee Co. Master Gardeners at 1535 N Hickory Rd. Plants for both shade & sun with expert gardeners to answer ?’s. joannemkenyon@yahoo.com. Novi Spring Perennial Exchange Sat, May 28, 9am-Noon, Novi. By Novi Beautification Commission at Fuerst Park. FREE. Perennial exchange. Share favorites & make new friends. 248-735-5621. H Brick Pavers, Wall & Steps Sat, May 28, 8am, Washington. At Rock ‘N’ Rocks. FREE. Rain or shine. www.RocksNRoots.com, 586-752-4900. H Specialty Growers Spring Open House Sat, May 28, & Sun, May 29, 9am-5pm. At Specialty Growers. FREE. Sat, 1pm, Join noted horticulturist & author Joseph Tychonievich for lecture: Gardening for Pollinators. Vendors & more. www.specialtygrowers.net, 517-546-7742. H Magnificent Miniatures: Azalea Bonsai in Bloom Sat, May 28, 10am-8pm, through 6/6, Ann Arbor. At Matthaei Botanical Gardens. A rare opportunity to see satsuki azalea bonsai in bloom. www.mbgna.umich.edu. H Tremendous Trees Sun, May 29, 2pm, Tipton. At Hidden Lake Gardens. $25/ family. Learn how to look closely at trees & identify them. Register: 517-431-2060.

June Perennial Plant Exchange Sat, Jun 4, 8:30am, Clarkston. By The Clarkston Farm & Garden Club at Downtown Parking Lot. Rain or shine. Pot & identify your plants for exchange. Download labels at: www.ClarkstonGardenClub.org. H Brick Pavers, Walls & Steps Sat, Jun 4, 8am, Washington. At Rock ‘N’ Rocks. FREE. Rain or shine. www.RocksNRoots.com, 586-752-4900. 8th Annual Spring Garden Tour Sat, Jun 4, 10am-2pm, Detroit. At Black Cat Pottery. Register: www.blackcatpottery.com. H Concrete Toadstool Sat, Jun 4, 10am-Noon, Fenton. At Heavenly Scent Herb Farm. $39.75. Create a 18” toadstool using fortified concrete. Pick up in a week. www.heavenlyscentherbfarm.com. H Peonies Galore Sale Sat, Jun 4, 10am, Ann Arbor. At Nichols Arboretum. Several varieties of locally grown heirloom peonies for sale. 734-647-7600, mbgna.umich.edu. MSU Tollgate Gardens Perennial Plant Sale Sat, Jun 4, 9am-2pm, Novi. At MSU Tollgate Farm. Tollgate Nursery Grown Sun & Shade Perennials. Volunteers help with selection & loading. 248-347-3860. ext.251. H Herb Container Workshop Sat, Jun 11, 10am, Ortonville; 12Noon, Lake Orion; 3pm, Davison. At Wojo’s. $30. Create an herb garden to be enjoyed on your deck, windowsill, or just about anywhere. 248-627-6498. H Summer Retreat Faerie House Sat, Jun 11, 10am-12:30pm, Fenton. At Heavenly Scent Herb Farm. $89.75. This is a one-of-a-kind house, starting with a 16” x 11” x 3” deep pallet box. www.heavenlyscentherbfarm.com. H Water Features & Ponds Sat, Jun 11, 8am, Washington. At Rocks N Roots. FREE. www.RocksNRoots.com, 586-752-4900. H 26th Annual Ann Arbor Garden Walk Sat, Jun 11, 10am-4pm, Ann Arbor. By Woman’s Nat’l Farm & Garden Association at 7 private gardens. $20. Proceeds from this event benefit local nonprofit horticultural & environmental orgs. www.AnnArborFarmAndGarden.org. Meadow Brook Garden Club Open House Tue, Jun 14, 9am, Rochester. By MBGC at the tent behind Meadow Brook Hall. Garden tour & potluck lunch. Guests pair up with a member & garden until noon. Bring tools. 248-364-6210. Franklin Garden Walk Wed, Jun 15, 10am-4pm & 6-9pm, Franklin. By Women’s National Farm & Garden Association at 6 private gardens. $15. 248-569-7359, www.franklingardenclub.org. H Floral Arrangement in a Vase Thu, Jun 16, 6:30pm, Meridian Charter Twp. At VanAtta’s. $35. www.VanAttas.com. H Father’s Day FREE KOI Fri, Jun 17, to Sun, Jun 19, Waterford Twp. At The Pond Place. One FREE KOI per father with any $10 or more purchase, must be present to receive. Closing @ 3pm Sun. www.pondplace.com.

Vermiculture for Youth Educators Sat, Jun 18, 10am-Noon, Ann Arbor. By Project Grow at Leslie Science & Nature Ctr. $5. This offering is designed specifically for K-5 classroom educators. Register: ProjectGrowGardens.org. H Brick Pavers, Walls & Steps Sat, Jun 18, 8am, Washington. At Rock ‘N’ Rocks. FREE. Rain or shine. www.RocksNRoots.com, 586-752-4900. 25th Annual Grosse Pointe Garden Tour Fri, Jun 24, 10am-4pm, Grosse Pointe Area. By Grosse Pointe Garden Ctr, Inc. $20. Visit 8 beautiful private gardens. Tickets: 313-881-7511, ext. 206. Garden Walk & Rose Garden Breakfast Sat, Jun 25, 9am-4pm, Mount Clemens. At Crocker House Museum. Enjoy a stroll & breakfast at the museum. www.crockerhousemuseum.com. H Brick Pavers, Walls & Steps Sat, Jun 25, 8am, Washington. At Rock ‘N’ Rocks. FREE. Rain or shine. www.RocksNRoots.com, 586-752-4900. Lakeside Garden Walk Sat, Jun 25, 11am-5pm, Lakeside. By Lakeside Association at Lakeside Park. $45. 8 unique gardens. Proceeds go to River Valley Scholarship Fund. www.thelakesideassociation.com, 773-343-1680. Genesee County Garden Tour 2016 Sun, Jun 26, 10am-5pm, Clio & Vienna Twp. By MGAGCM at area gardens. $10. Enjoy a leisurely self-guided tour through private gardens. www.GCgardentour.weebly.com. Southfield Garden Walk Sun, Jun 26, 2-5pm, Southfield. By Southfield Parks & Garden Club at 14 attractive gardens. Shuttle buses start at the Historic Burgh site at Civic Center & Berg Road. 248-356-2281. The Iris Lady Thu, Jun 30, 6:30-8:30, Clinton Twp. By MCMGA at MSUE Assembly Room. $5. Bring a clump of Iris & Betty Slominski will show how to divide it. Register: 586-954-9998.

July 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. Fenton Open Gate Garden Club 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. 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. 248-686-9949. 42nd Annual Troy Garden Walk: Poetic Gardens Wed, Jul 13, 9:30am-3pm & 5pm-8:30pm, Troy. By Troy Garden Club at 8 private gardens & Troy Historic Village. $15. www.TroyGardenClubMI.com, 248-952-5938. 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. Shelby Gardners Club Bi-Annual Garden Walk Sat, Jul 16, 10am-4pm, Shelby. By Shelby Gardeners Club. Tickets will be available in June at the Shelby Pubic Library & the Shelby Parks & Recreation Office. 586-781-6742. 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. 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. 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 Van Atta’s. $35. www.vanattas.com.

Beste’s Indoor/Outdoor Garden Center 21410 Schoenherr Rd., Warren, MI 48089 586-776-1794 www.besteslawn.com May/June hours: Mon-Fri 8-6; Sat 8-5, Sun 10-3 Serving Metro Detroit since 1940. Our commitment is to provide quality service to do-it-yourself homeowners, gardeners, and contractors. We have a nice selection of annuals, perennials, hanging baskets, potted plants, mulch, topsoil, sands, wallstone, pavers and more.

Eckert’s Greenhouse & Perennials 34075 Ryan Rd., Sterling Heights, MI 48310 586-979-2409 www.eckertsgreenhouse.com May/June hours: Mon-Sat 8:30-8, Sun 8:30-6 From rare and unusual to preferred and popular, you will find something extraordinary: Annuals, Geraniums, Hanging Baskets, Flower Pouches, Perennials, Collector’s Hostas, Roses (David Austin English, hybrid tea, floribunda, shrub, climbing, grandiflora, tree, groundcover, miniature, rugosa), Clematis, Vines, Alpine Plants, Groundcovers, Butterfly Plants, Native Plants, Tropicals, Succulents. Gorgeous hosta display gardens too!

Elya’s Village Gardens & Greenhouses 24200 26 Mile Rd., Macomb, MI 48042 586-749-9212 or 586-405-7592 May/June hours: Mon-Sat 9-7, Sun 10-3 We do more than just sell you plants—our award-winning landscape designers will help you select the right plants for your home and garden. Annuals, perennials, many hosta varieties, trees and shrubs from top-quality Michigan growers. Family-owned garden center since 1966. Also full-service landscape installation.

English Gardens 44850 Garfield Rd., Clinton Township, MI 48038  586-286-6100 www.EnglishGardens.com Hours – Thru Sun, June 5: Mon-Sat 8-9, Sun 8-6; Starting Mon, June 6: Mon-Sat 9-9, Sun 9-6 Founded in 1954, English Gardens is family- and locally-owned, operating six full-service stores and a full-service landscaping company in Metro Detroit. Each full-service store has a nursery, garden center, patio shop, and seasonal Christmas center featuring the best value and finest quality products and services. For more information: 800-335-GROW.

English Gardens 22501 Kelly Rd., Eastpointe, MI 48021 586-771-4200 www.EnglishGardens.com May/June hours: Mon-Sat 9-7; Sun 9-6 Founded in 1954, English Gardens is family- and locally-owned, operating six full-service stores and a full-service landscaping company in Metro Detroit. Each full-service store has a nursery, garden center, patio shop, and seasonal Christmas center featuring the best value and finest quality products and services. For more information: 800-335-GROW.

Heritage Oaks 58860 Romeo Plank Rd., Ray Twp, MI 48096 248-737-3700 www.heritageoaksdesign.com May/June hours: Mon-Sat 11-5 An eclectic home and garden shoppe featuring handcrafted items—many from the Detroit area. Upcycled furniture, garden tools and unique home decor items. Visit our website and go shopping: many items are available online. Even better, come see the amazing talents that are on display throughout our store. Heritage Oaks: Design, Garden, Art.

Landscape Source 17448 26 Mile Rd., Macomb, MI 48042 586-677-7480 www.landscapesource.com May/June hours: Mon-Fri 8-6, Sat 8-5, Sun 9-4 A premier landscape supply company. We have the amazing new ‘Regal Petticoat’ maple. 15 acres of products including trees, shrubs, perennials, soils, stone, mulch, fire glass, fireplaces and pond kits. Our trees and shrubs are the best available. Fendt, Oaks, and Unilock premium pavers and walls. Very reasonable prices and great quality.

Meldrum Brothers Nursery & Supply 29500 23 Mile Rd., New Baltimore, MI 48047 586-949-9220 www.meldrumbros.com May/June hours: Mon-Sat 8-7, Sun 10-5 Huge selection of plants, bulk and bagged materials, decorative stone, Fendt and Oaks paver bricks and wall stones, garden decor, fairy gardening supplies, Traeger grills, fountains, and statuary. Organic and traditional lawn and plant care products including fertilizers, soils, and mulches. We pride ourselves on offering the best service and advice. Come see our newly remodeled showroom!

Rocks ‘n’ Roots 62520 Van Dyke, Washington, MI 48094 586-752-4900 www.rocksnroots.com May/June hours: Please see website Since 1928. One of Michigan’s largest selections of landscape hardgoods, pond supplies, and outdoor lighting. All are on display, including waterfalls, ponds, decorative stone, paver walks and retaining walls. Free do-it-yourself seminars indoors, rain or shine. Family-owned, and operated, with over 100 combined years of hands-on experience to help with your project, big or small.

Telly’s Greenhouse 4343 24 Mile Rd., Shelby Twp, MI 48316 248-659-8555 www.tellys.com May/June hours: Mon-Sat 9-8, Sun 10-5 We find and grow new, rare, and choice plants from the United States and around the world. You will see unique annuals, tropicals, and perennials that you are unlikely to find elsewhere. Our Shelby Township store is the newest addition to our original Troy location.

United Plant Center & Gift Shop 62170 Van Dyke Rd., Washington, MI 48094 586-752-5000 www.unitedplantcenter.com May/June hours: Mon-Fri: 8-7, Sat 8-5, Sun 10-3 Highest quality and lowest price plants. Trees, shrubs, perennials, annuals, fertilizer, garden supplies, and a huge selection of outdoor décor. Plus bulk mulch and soils—order online, we deliver every day. Our gift shop is full of unique treasures, come visit us today! Mention this ad for $5.00 off your purchase!

Young’s Garden Mart 27825 Ryan Rd., Warren, MI 48092 586-573-0230 Find us on Facebook May/June hours: Mon-Sat 9-7, Sun 10-5 Family run and operated since 1924, we offer a variety of annual, perennial, and tropical plants, as well as gardening gifts and tools. We are proud to be the area’s trusted garden center, open yearround. Our Christmas Shoppe, established in 1963, provides only the highest quality Christmas decorations.

To advertise in Destinations, email Publisher@MichiganGardener.com or call Eric at 248-594-5563

Michigan Gardener | May 2016 | MichiganGardener.com

Shasta Daisy: An American Classic

he Shasta daisy (Leucanthemum x superbum) is a hybrid developed by the prodigious American horticulturist and plant breeder Luther Burbank. His efforts began by crossing the common ox-eye daisy (L. vulgare) with the European field daisy (L. maximum). Not satisfied with the results, he continued to refine his hybrids by crossing and back-crossing with two other species of Leucanthemum. His final result, an interspecific hybrid utilizing four species, exhibited the

pure white color, large flower size, and long, straight stems he sought. These original hybrids were introduced in 1901 and called Shasta daisies, in honor of snow-topped Mount Shasta near his home in northern California. His first named hybrid, ‘Alaska,’ is still widely grown today. The Shasta daisy has the longest history of continuous popularity of any hybrid garden flower in America.

How to grow

Karen Bovio

Shasta daisies are dependable perennials for sunny or lightly shaded locations with relatively rich, welldrained soil. They are hardy from zone 4 through 8, but may die out in harsh, snowless northern winters, or after excessively wet seasons with very high heat and humidity. Under those moist conditions, fungal diseases can weaken the

plants. Shastas are susceptible to a number of leaf-spot diseases, many of which cause dark brown to black lesions that may spread over the entire leaf surface. Fungicides can help, but frequent rains will reduce their effectiveness. A thorough cut-back in the fall, along with removal of all dead foliage will go a long way toward reducing infection the following season. Four-lined plant bug may be a problem continued on next page

Shasta daisies: A selection guide Single-flowered

www.PerennialResource.com

‘Thomas Killen’ – Technically a single, but a row of short petals around the center gives a fuller appearance. Thick stems for cutting. 24-30 inches tall.

www.PerennialResource.com

Daisy May – A solid dome of 3-inch blooms. A Proven Winners selection. 20-24 inches tall.

www.PerennialResource.com www.PerennialResource.com

‘Becky’ – Very sturdy stems, long blooming, repeat blooming. 3-4 feet tall, clumps up to 4 feet wide.

www.PerennialResource.com

‘Snowcap’ – From Blooms of Bressingham, from the 1970s. 10-12 inches tall and wide.

‘Whoops-a-Daisy’ – Originator Walters Gardens claims this to be an improvement on ‘Snowcap’ with better flower coverage, fuller blooms, and compact ball-shaped habit. 15 inches tall.

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Shasta daisies: A selection guide Fringed flowers

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ABOVE: ‘Real Galaxy’ – Dense ring of fringed white ray petals around a pronounced yellow center. Part of the new “Real” series, with improved disease resistance. 18-20 inches tall. ‘Aglaia’ – Masses of fine-textured petals. Double to semi-double. An old favorite. 24-28 inches tall.

Semi-double to anemone-flowered

Double-flowered

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Plant Haven International www.PerennialResource.com

‘Highland White Dream’ – A double layer of petals on 4-inch wide flowers. Sturdy stems. 24-30 inches tall. continued from previous page during June and early July. Be on the lookout for fast-moving, lime-green and black-striped elongated insects that pierce the leaf and suck its juices, leaving behind telltale, closelyspaced groups of dots on the leaf. This pest causes unsightly damage, but is never fatal. Systemic insecticide sprays are effective, but

‘Real Glory’ – Semi-double, anemone-type flower with a prominent raised yellow center. Improved disease tolerance and excellent dark green glossy foliage. Part of the new “Real” series. 26 inches tall.

if you prefer to stay organic, I’ve found the best tactic is to squish the insects when you find them. Just a few insects can cause a lot of damage, so if you catch them early, you can avoid the ugly spotting they cause.

Modern varieties Shasta daisies have come a long way since their original development over 100 years ago.

ABOVE: ‘Summer Snowball’ – Perhaps the closest to a full double, packed with petals. Great cut flowers. From Blooms of Bressingham. 3 feet tall and wide. ‘Esther Read’ – Crested to fully double, nearly pure white. Reblooms well. 12-18 inches tall. ‘Fiona Coghill’ – Crested form resembling a double echinacea. 27-31 inches tall.

The original Shasta daisies, with their single ring of white ray flowers surrounding a central yellow disk, have been transformed to include semi-double, fully double, fringed, and fluted forms. Most recently, yellow-flowered varieties have been developed. The growth habits have been improved—gone are the days of daisies in need of staking—and we have varieties in a range of heights, from rounded mounds 10

inches tall to sturdy 4-foot stems topped with 4-inch wide flowers. There is a Shasta daisy to fit any size garden. As if those improvements were not noteworthy enough, many new hybrids bloom all summer and into early fall if kept deadheaded, and exhibit much greater disease resistance than older varieties. continued on next page

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Michigan Gardener | May 2016 | MichiganGardener.com

Shasta daisies: A selection guide Fluted flowers

Skagit Gardens Plant Haven International

‘Real Neat’ – Tubular petals with flared tips neatly arranged pinwheel-style around the yellow button center. Tight clumping habit. Part of the new Real series. 14-16 inches tall.

‘LaCrosse’ – Unique quilled petals. Very early to bloom, compact habit. 12 inches tall, 18 inches wide.

Yellow flowers

Chris Hansen

Plant Haven International

‘Banana Cream’ – 4-inch flowers start true yellow, lightening to creamy white. 15-18 inches tall.

‘Real Charmer’ – Creamy yellow outer petals, a fluffy tuft of bright yellow petals in the center, and deep gold center give a tri-colored effect. Part of the new Real series. 23-29 inches tall.

continued from previous page

tion of being a thug in the garden. However, most of the new hybrids are sterile or nearly so, which eliminates annoying self-seeding and encourages reblooming (the plants don’t expend energy trying to produce seeds). Breeding efforts have resulted in densely branched plants with shorter internodes and

Older Shasta daisies, including Burbank’s ‘Alaska,’ bear fertile seeds which self-sow in the garden. This tendency, along with an unrestrained and somewhat floppy habit, has given the Shasta daisy an unfortunate reputa-

much stockier stems supporting a greater number of flowers per plant. The breeding of superior Shasta daisies has been ongoing for decades, and many varieties introduced in the 1970s, 80s, and 90s are just as garden worthy as brand-new ones that have only recently appeared in catalogs and garden

literature. With dozens of varieties to choose from, it is impossible to mention them all; I have listed as many as space allows. Select one or more of these worthy plants for your garden! Karen Bovio is the owner of Specialty Growers in Howell, MI.

MichiganGardener.com | May 2016 | Michigan Gardener

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Hanging Baskets • Window Boxes • Porch Pots Annual Bedding Plants • Herbs • Vegetable Plants

ACTUAL Yr. to Date 8.22 8.18 7.41

DEVIATION from Normal +1.96 +3.16 +2.23

NORMAL

Monthly 2.28 1.91 2.06

ACTUAL Monthly 0.80 0.92 0.74

DEVIATION from Normal -1.48 -0.99 -1.32

2015 Year to Date: Jan 1 - Mar 31

NORMAL

Yr. to Date 6.26 5.02 5.18

ACTUAL Yr. to Date 3.60 3.09 2.99

Hire a Professional

Our members work with Integrity, Intelligence & Pride Visit our website to find a professional gardener in your area: www.associationofprofessionalgardeners.org

New members always welcome Visit our website for program schedule

Email us at: aprogardener@gmail.com

DEVIATION from Normal -2.66 -1.93 -2.19

GR EENHOUSE

Temperature March 2016

March 2015

The cost of gardening: a bit of your time & energy. The rewards: priceless!

Detroit Flint Lansing

NORMAL Avg. High 45.2 43.1 43.5

ACTUAL Avg. High 51.9 51.1 49.3

DEVIATION from Normal +6.7 +8.0 +5.8

ORMAL N Avg. High 45.2 43.1 43.5

ACTUAL Avg. High 44.0 43.0 42.8

DEVIATION from Normal -1.2 -0.1 -0.7

Detroit Flint Lansing

NORMAL Avg. Low 28.5 24.3 24.3

ACTUAL Avg. Low 34.4 32.2 31.1

DEVIATION from Normal +5.9 +7.9 +6.8

ORMAL N Avg. Low 28.5 24.3 24.3

ACTUAL Avg. Low 25.1 22.5 22.6

DEVIATION from Normal -3.4 -1.8 -1.7

Data courtesy National Weather Service

WE MAKE GARDENING MORE AFFORDABLE FOR YOU Mother’s Day Sale! May 5 to 8: Bigger Baskets! Our 10” baskets 10” Million Bells baskets $1299 or 2/$25. are actually 11 inches—that means Many additional 10” baskets affordably priced. bigger plants for you—for no extra cost!

7445 Imlay City Rd, Imlay City • 1 mi E of M-53 • 810-724-1932

The Iron Barn

eco Chic landscape design

Custom Iron Work for Home/Garden

• Porch, step, deck & hand rails • Driveway & Garden Gates • Aluminum Lamps & Décor • Powder Coat Finishing • Restoration & More!

• Native Plant/Habitat Design • Natural Lakescaping • Invasive Plant I.D., Strategies, and Elimination • Butterfly and Birdscaping • Presentations & Consulting

6823 N. Lapeer Rd. (M-24) 12 mi. N. of Lapeer Open Sat & Sun 9-3 • Appointments welcome

248-978-2300 www.ecochiclandscape.com design@ecochiclandscape.com

810-358-0010 • theironbarn.com

GARDEN RHYTHMS

Stone Cottage Gardens Huge selection of daylilies, hostas, ferns, perennials, grasses, vines, herbs, groundcovers & gardening tools

CREATIVE SOLUTIONS FOR RESIDENTIAL LANDSCAPES

~ Garden art & accessories ~ Going “Up North” for the weekend? Check the Michigan Gardener calendar or our website for special events

• Renovation Specialists • Ornamental Pruning • Seasonal Containers • Maintenance & Redesign • Garden Coaching

Open May 2 - Oct. 8 Mon-Fri 10-6 Sat 9-4 or by chance or appointment

3740 West Willford Rd. Gladwin, MI 989-426-2919 www.stonecottagegardens.com Check out our gardens on

Certified Master Gardeners & Designers

248-217-6459 bevinbloom@gmail.com

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Michigan Gardener | May 2016 | MichiganGardener.com

Look for Allen Park • Ace Hardware Almont • American Tree Ann Arbor • Dixboro General Store H Matthaei Botanical Gard H Dwntn Home & Gard • Wild Birds Unltd H The Produce Station • Ace Barnes Hdwe (Washtenaw Ave) H Turner’s Greenhse/ Gard Ctr H Lodi Farms H Abbott’s Landscp Nurs • Ace Barnes Hdwe (West Stadium) H English Gardens • Larry’s Mower Shop H HillTop Greenhse & Farms Auburn Hills • Drake’s Landscp & Nurs H State Crushing • Ace Hardware H Oakland Community College H Haley Stone Belleville H Zywicki Greenhse • Banotai Greenhse H Pinter Flowerland Berkley • Garden Central Beverly Hills • Ace Hardware Birmingham H Blossoms Brighton H Meier Flowerland • Leppek Nurs H Beauchamp Landscp Supp Brownstown Twp H Ruhlig Farms & Gard • Raupp Bros Landscp Supp Canton • Wild Birds Unltd • Canton Floral Gardens • Crimboli Nurs • Clink Landscp & Nurs Chelsea H The Garden Mill • The Potting Shed • Heim Gardens & Florist Chesterfield • Van Thomme’s Greenhses Clarkston • The Birdfeeder • Lowrie’s Landscp H The Pond Source • Ace Hardware (Sashabaw) • Ace Hdwe (Dixie Hwy) • Weingartz • Country Oaks Landscp Supp I Clawson • Ace Hardware Clinton Twp • MSU ExtensionMacomb Cty H English Gardens H Tropical Treasures • Michigan Koi

at these fine locations: Howell H Specialty Growers • Wilczewski Commerce Twp Greenhses • Zoner’s Greenhse H Howell Farmer’s Mkt Davison Imlay City H Wojo’s Garden H Earthly Arts Splendors Keego Harbor Dearborn • Creative Brick Paving • Fairlane Gard Lake Orion • Ace Hardware H Orion Stone Depot Dearborn Hts • Lake Orion Lawn H English Gardens Ornaments Detroit H Wojo’s of Lake Orion H Detroit Farm and Livonia Gard • Valley Nurs • Cheryl English H George’s • Detroit Gard Ctr Livonia Gard Dexter • Ace Hardware (6 H Fraleigh’s Nurs Mi/Newburgh) H Bloom! Gard Ctr • Ace Hardware (5 • Dexter Mill Mi/Middlebelt) • Earth Art • Superior Growers Eastpointe Supp H English Gardens • Bushel Mart H Drew’s Garden Macomb Farmington • Ace Hardware • Alexander True • Boyka’s Greenhse Value Hardware • Olejnik Farms • Altermatt’s Farmington Hills Greenhse H Steinkopf Nurs H Landscape Source • Saxton’s Flower Ctr H Elya’s Village Gard • Ace Hardware • Weingartz Midland • Dow Gardens Fenton • Gerych’s Milford H Heavenly Scent H The Pond Place • Peter’s True Value Herb Farm Hardware Ferndale • Ace Hardware • Casual Modes Monroe Home & Gard H The Flower Market Flushing New Baltimore • Flushing Lawn & H Meldrum Bros Nurs Gard Ctr New Boston Fostoria H Gorham & Sons H The Iron Barn Nurs Fowlerville H Arrowhead Alpines H Grass Roots Nurs • Mums the Word Gladwin New Hudson H Stone Cottage H Milarch Nurs Gardens North Branch Grand Blanc H Campbell’s H The Weed Lady Greenhses Grand Rapids H Oldani Landscp • Meijer Gardens Nurs Grosse Ile Northville H Westcroft Gardens • Gardenviews Grosse Pointe • Begonia Bros • Allemon’s Landscp Novi Ctr • Glenda’s Gard Ctr • Meldrum & Smith • Ace Hardware Nurs • Wild Birds Unltd Grosse Pointe Shores Oak Park • Edsel & Eleanor Ford • Four Seasons Gard House Ctr Grosse Pointe Woods • Ace Hardware H Wild Birds Unltd Oakland Hadley H Piechnik’s Garden H Le Fleur Décor Gate Haslett Ortonville H Van Atta’s Greenhse H Wojo’s Greenhse • Country Oaks Highland Landscp Supp II • Thornton Nurs • Colasanti’s Produce Owosso & Plants H Everlastings in the Wildwood H One Stop Landscp Supp Pinckney • Five Star Ace Hard• Bock’s General Store ware & Gard Ctr • Fragments • Ace Hardware Clio H Piechnik’s Greenhse

Plymouth H Rock Shoppe H Plymouth Nurs • Lucas Nurs • Sparr’s Greenhse • Sideways • Plymouth Rock & Supp Pontiac • Goldner Walsh Gard/Home Ray • Heritage Oaks Design Redford H Pinter Flowerland • Seven Mi Gard Ctr Rochester • Casual Concepts • Fogler’s Greenhse • Sherwood Forest Gard Ctr Rochester Hills H Haley Stone • Wild Birds Unltd • Ace Hardware H Auburn Oaks Gard Ctr Romulus H Kurtzhal’s Farms H Schwartz’s Grnhse H Schoedel’s Nurs Roseville • Dale’s Landscp Supp • Flower Barn Nurs Sea World Royal Oak H English Gardens H Button’s Rent It • La Roche • Ace Hardware • Frentz & Sons Hardware • Billings Lawn Equip • Wild Birds Unltd • Manus Power Mowers Saginaw H Abele Greenhse & Gard Ctr Salem Twp H Willow Greenhses Saline H Nature’s Gard Ctr H Saline Flowerland • Junga’s Ace Hdwe Shelby Twp H Telly’s Greenhse H Hessell’s Greenhses • Diegel Greenhses • Potteryland • Maeder Plant Farm • Flower Barn Nurs South Lyon • Stone Depot Landscp Supp • Mike’s Garden • Ace Hardware • Hollow Oak Farm Nurs Southfield • Eagle Landscp & Supp • Lavin’s Flower Land • 3 DDD’s Stand • Main’s Landscp Supp Southgate H Ray Hunter Gard Ctr St Clair Shores • Ace Hardware (Harper/13 Mi) • Circare • Hall’s Nurs • Soulliere Gard Ctr • Greenhouse Growers

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 • Beste’s Lawn & Patio Washington • 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 • Christian’s Greenhse Wixom • Angelo’s Landscp Supp • Brainer’s Greenhse Ypsilanti • Lucas Nurs • Margolis Nurs • Materials Unlimited • Michigan Greenscape Supp • Schmidt’s Antiques • Coleman’s Farm Mkt

Lansing

East Haslett Lansing

Owosso

Williamston

Hartland Highland

Fowlerville Howell

Mason

Milford

Arrowhead Alpines 1310 Gregory Rd., Fowlerville, MI 48836 517-223-3581 www.arrowheadalpines.com May/June hours: Wed-Sun 11-5 Specializing in rare and unusual plants. One of the most wellknown specialty nurseries in Michigan, with a huge selection of perennials, woodland wildflowers, unusual ferns, and rare alpines for rock gardens, miniature landscapes, and fairy gardens. We’re always on the hunt for new plants; the more unusual the better!

Christian’s Greenhouse & Garden Center 3750 E. Grand River Rd., Williamston, MI 48895 517-521-4650 www.christiansgreenhouses.com May/June hours: Please call Amazing selection, amazing prices. Over 700 different varieties of annuals, grasses, perennials, roses, vegetables and herbs. The newest cultivars and traditional favorites. Plus rock garden perennials, bird and butterfly plants, and more. Our pottery assortment will wow you, with multiple sizes and colors.

Milarch Nursery 28500 Haas Rd., New Hudson, MI 48165 248-437-2094 www.milarchnursery.com Hours – Thru Sat, June 25: Mon-Fri 8-5:30, Sat 8-3; Starting Mon, June 27: Mon-Fri 8-5, Sat 8-1 The finest nursery stock and perennials since 1972. We grow and maintain quality plants, along with special care in handling. 27 acres of shade and flowering trees, evergreens, flowering shrubs, perennials and groundcovers. Landscape-grade sizes are available. We offer each customer a knowledgeable salesperson to assist with plant selection.

Brighton

One Stop Landscape Supply 2586 S. Milford Rd., Highland, MI 48357 248-684-0332 www.onestoplandscapesupply.com May/June hours: Mon-Fri 7:30-6:30, Sat 7:30-5, Sun 9-3 Over 5 acres of landscape supplies, plus an outdoor living display. Mulches, soils, stone, garden decor, tools, water features, lighting, and much more. We are your One Stop for everything you need as a do-it-yourself gardener. Knowledgeable staff helps answer your questions. Call us for same day delivery!

The Pond Place of Michigan 3505 W. Highland Rd., Milford, MI 48380 248-889-8400 www.pondplace.com May/June hours: Mon-Fri 9-6, Sat 9-4, Sun 11-4 Established in 2001, The Pond Place is one of the largest retailers and wholesalers of pond supplies in Michigan. Our knowledgeable staff is here to help with your pond supply, koi, goldfish and water plant needs. Visit www.pondplace.com for online shopping and browse our list of free pond workshops!

New Hudson

Wixom

Specialty Growers 4330 Golf Club Rd., Howell MI 48843 517-546-7742 www.specialtygrowers.net May/June hours: Mon-Fri 9-6, Sat 9-5, Sun 10-4 Excellent selection of perennials, grasses, hostas, native plants, herb and vegetable plants, all grown here at our nursery. Heirloom tomatoes and interesting pepper varieties. Perennials from starter 3.5” pots up to 2-gallon size. Outdoor-grown perennials, acclimated to local weather conditions, selected for Michigan gardens. Complete catalog on our website. Knowledgeable, experienced staff.

Van Atta’s Greenhouse 9008 Old M-78, Haslett, MI 48840 517-339-1142 www.vanattas.com Hours – May: Mon-Sat 9-9, Sun 10-7; June: Mon-Sat 9-8, Sun 10-7 One of the largest selections of plants and garden accents in Southeastern Michigan. We grow an enormous variety of perennials. There’s a good chance we have that one plant you’ve been searching for, or the garden ornament that sets your yard apart. Come stroll our grounds—you’ll be amazed at what you find.

To advertise in Destinations, email Publisher@MichiganGardener.com or call Eric at 248-594-5563

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Michigan Gardener | May 2016 | MichiganGardener.com

A bubble and a splash! Small, easy water gardens bring the enchanting sound of water into your garden

s a long-time landscape deheads or simply bubble the water up signer, the most common and out. This will give you a beautiinitial reaction I hear to the ful tinkling sound of the “water bells” idea of water in the garden is, “What and the sparkle of moving water. about the maintenance?” So, let’s Add a variety of smaller, “marginal” start there. plants, which like their feet wet but It is true, if you put a water element grow out of the water. Or, if the pot in your garden there will be extra is big enough, you can try a water lily work. However, the main fear of lots or aquatic spreader. The water plants of maintenance hours comes primar- Traven will shade and help maintain the ily from poorly installed ponds done Pelletier water quality. See the sidebar “Plant either do-it-yourself or by untrained ideas for small water gardens” for a landscapers. Constantly fighting algae or raklist of plant recommendations. ing out leaves from a small pond can quickly The small size of this basin pond makes albecome drudgery. gae treatment or removal a small and pleasant But wait! There are many ways to add the task. Fish should only be added if you are willsparkle, movement and joy that comes with ing to overwinter them in an indoor aquarium water and its dynamic flow to your garden— or have a larger pond to keep them in later. without the maintenance burden. In the last 10 years, the rise of the “pondless waterfall” in the popular backyard pond or water feature business has made even a medium-size water feature a lower maintenance endeavor. These are basically small ponds and waterfalls where the pond itself is simply filled with stone and the pump and plumbing are out of sight in this underground basin, thus keeping leaves and detritus from accumulating and leaving no open water for algae to populate. That said, there are even simpler ways to enjoy water in the garden.

This boulder fountain gracefully compliments its natural surroundings.

Plant ideas for small water gardens • Mini water lilies – ‘Perry’s Baby Red,’ ‘Helvola’ and ‘Aurora’ • Canna lilies – ‘Pretoria’ (striped foliage) • Rushes – Especially variegated or twisted varieties (‘Spiralis’ corkscrew rush) • Elephant ears – Great color for shadier spots (‘Nigra’ and ‘Frydek’) • Floating water hyacinths and water lettuce always look fresh and keep water aerated • Mini cattails – Resemble tiny drumsticks (‘Minima’); great for drying • Lobelia – ‘Fan Scarlet’ stays upright and draws hummingbirds to its bright red flowers • Variegated Japanese iris – Beautiful green and white foliage (Iris ensata ‘Variegata’) • Golden creeping Jenny – Bright trailing effect over the pond edge (Lysimachia ‘Aurea’)

Patio basin pond Concrete or fiberglass “patio ponds” are small basin pools created from sealed pots. They are a great way to enjoy a small fountain and miniature water garden with flowing water, flowering water plants, and even fish and frogs. Creating a small basin pond is simple. Shop for a 24- to even 48-inch wide, sealed pot (no holes for drainage here!), with a depth of 8 to 12 inches. Purchase a small fountain pump with a filter pad or ideally a small fountain basket (a surround of filter media to prevent the pump from clogging easily) that sits down in the water. The fountain can either use spray P H OTO G R A P H S BY T R AV E N P E L L E T I E R

Concrete patio ponds are created from sealed basins or pots. The fountain uses spray heads or bubbles water up and out, which makes a beautiful sound.

MichiganGardener.com | May 2016 | Michigan Gardener

This otherwise forgotten corner becomes a focal point with a recirculating fountain feature and choice conifer.

This patio basin pond includes plants and even fish. Its small size makes algae treatment or removal an easy task. Note that fish should only be added if they can be overwintered in an indoor aquarium or a larger pond.

Fountains also serve as garden art, such as these modern, carved granite stones. Frogs or tadpoles will “graduate” to a larger water source if you don’t live in too urban of an environment. All of the tasks associated with creating and maintaining this garden are wonderful to share with family and children—especially grandchildren!

Garden fountain Another great small water garden option

This bright patio fountain provides soothing sounds for the table for two. Note how the basin is hidden under the fountain itself and disguised by stone mulch. The basin contains the recirculating pump that feeds up through the fountain and pushes the water out and up to splash down and over the fountain. is a garden fountain—a bit less work than the basin pond but equally as beautiful. Recirculating garden fountains are as varied in their appearance as any other garden art, from a Grecian-style sculpture to a formal carved granite, modern stone. Most prevalent are various types of urns or cored-out bubbling stones. Most of these sit on a small basin (25 to 75 gallons), which is dug into

the garden bed and hidden under the fountain itself and disguised by stone mulch. The basin contains the recirculating pump that feeds up through the stone and pushes the water out and up to splash down and over the fountain. Like the basin pond above, a filter basket is a good idea to reduce pump maintenance and cleaning. If you are having it installed by a professional, or have a capable do-it-yourself

plumbing gene in the family, install an “autofill” with the basin. This is a simple, plungerstyle valve (it usually needs a pressure reducer for city water) that can run off a splitter on a hose spigot and keep the water level in the basin full at all times during the gardening season. This makes it truly the lowest maintenance water garden you can have! The beauty of both of these small water garden options, and the dynamic of life that they bring to the garden, is demonstrated in their appeal to the most playful of us: dogs and children. The basin pond and garden fountain will delight children for hours, attract butterflies and birds, and become the favorite drinking and cooling off spot for the family dog. Make your garden sparkle with a little bit of water’s beauty and bring some more fun into your gardening experience. In turn, you will entice some other family members into the beautiful outdoor space you have created.

Traven Pelletier is the owner of Bloom Garden Center and Lotus Gardenscapes. An artist and designer at heart, Traven has worked in the landscape industry since 1995 with a primary focus on highly creative landscape/ art installations. His design/build installation company specializes in custom outdoor woodwork, stonework, and water features, as well as gardens of all sizes and types. The creative team has won multiple design/build awards for their installations and their new retail garden center in Dexter, Michigan is becoming a new destination for unique plants, garden art, and water gardening.

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

Gladwin

Bay City

Midland

Saginaw North Branch Clio Columbiaville

Lakeport

Lapeer

Davison

Imlay City

Flushing

Owosso St. Johns

Lennon

Burton Grand Blanc

Flint

Emmett

Hadley

Port Huron

Dryden

Metamora

Almont

Bancroft

Grand Rapids Fenton

Oxford

Ortonville Grand Ledge

Lansing

East Lansing

Clarkston

Fowlerville

Howell

Mason

Stockbridge

Oakland

White Lake

Jackson

Dexter

Grass Lake

Detroit

Canton

DearbornDearborn Wayne Heights

Ypsilanti

Taylor Belleville

Manchester

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New Baltimore

Westland

Ann Arbor

Tipton

Ray

Holly White Lake Waterford

Plymouth Chelsea

Washington

Rochester Macomb Rochester Shelby Twp. Highland Pontiac Hills Utica Auburn Hills Sylvan Lake Clinton Twp. Commerce Milford Bloomfield Troy West Sterling Hts. Hills Bloomfield Birmingham Walled Lake St. Clair Berkley Wixom Madison Roseville Shores Heights Brighton Warren Royal Oak New Hudson Eastpointe South Lyon Novi Farmington Southfield Hills Oak Park Farmington Ferndale Whitmore Northville Grosse Lake Pointes Livonia Redford Hartland

Williamston

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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 | May 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

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

Michigan Gardener | May 2016 | MichiganGardener.com

2 1 Stepping stone forms can be different sizes and shapes.

Place the forms on a heavy plastic sheet that is on a flat, smooth surface.

3 Mix the cement in a wheelbarrow.

How to make stepping stones Use various leaves from your garden to create practical works of art

othing is more impressive in our gardens than our homemade stepping stones with leaf prints in them. Stepping stones can lead somewhere in your garden, be placed together for a chair and table platform, or be used under a birdbath or statuary, by steps, at the beginning or end of a garden area, or anywhere the garden path needs spicing up. There is something about the gentle leaf prints on these stones that leave lasting impressions not only in the stone, but in the gardenerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hearts and minds as well. Stepping stones can last many, many years, even in Michigan. We have received so many wonderful comments about them by visitors and relatives over the years, that we want to share our ideas and recipes with you.

Making stepping stones This is a rewarding but somewhat messy project. It takes a whole morning or afternoon to complete. After that, the stones take several days to cure before you can get them out of the forms. You will use cement and forms to make a good stone. A wheelbarrow or non-leaking garden cart comes in handy to mix the cement in. Forms can be made in any size using 2 by 2 lumber and small nails. Forms can also be purchased at craft stores and online in many shapes and sizes. Most forms are reusable Jean & Roxanne and very easy to handle. Riggs Leaves of all shapes and

4 Pour the cement into the forms, making sure to fill the corners and smooth the top of the stone. sizes are good to use, but they must have big veins and textures in the leaves to make an impression in the cement. Some of the herb leaves we have used successfully are comfrey, sage, angelica, scented geraniums, and tansy. Other leaves that look lovely are hostas, ferns, mayapples, and tree leaves. You can write in the cement with a stick or purchase plastic letters and press them into it. Decorative stones and shells can also be added, but they must be pressed into the cement so they are level with the top and wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t trip anybody who walks on them. Of course, handprints or pawprints (be sure to thoroughly clean the paws

afterward) are fun too and can make lovely gifts or memorial stones in the garden.

Molds Buy or make molds before you mix cement. Preformed molds come in all different sizes and shapes. Like we did with our projects, you can easily make your own molds out of 2 by 2 wood lumber and smaller nails or screws that hold the ends together. text continued on page 50

MichiganGardener.com | May 2016 | Michigan Gardener

5 Use a cement trowel to smooth the cement as much as possible. This step takes some time, but the stones will come out the better for it.

6 Select big herb leaves with lots of textures and ribs. Press the leaves (rib side down) evenly into the cement.

7 Sage leaves circle a sunflower (above). After one week (below), the leaves crumbled and washed out of the mold.

9 8

With their noticeable ribs, these big hosta leaves make a great impression.

Michigan Gardener | May 2016 | MichiganGardener.com

10 Leaf material slowly turns brown and disappears from the cement.

Letters were also pressed into this cement. They need to be removed after an hour. The leaves remain to dry and disintegrate.

continued from page 48

Under the molds Place the molds on top of a sheet of heavy plastic or garbage bags. It needs to be smoothed out so there are no wrinkles. Don’t place the plastic and molds on the lawn to cure. Place them on something flat, like plywood, garage floors, cement patios, etc. The plastic will remain underneath until you remove the stones from the molds. If it rains outside, place plastic over the stones until the weather improves.

Cement types We used Portland cement for our stones. You can use a ready-mix cement that will set up faster, but it is a poorer quality cement that has a lot of gravel in it. The Portland cement is smoother in texture and the top of the stone has a glossier finish. Cements are available at hardware stores and come in rather heavy bags of 60 or more pounds. Have the hardware store place the bags in the back of your car or truck. When you get home, slide it into your wheelbarrow for mixing with water. The hardware store also sells cement dye that can be added if you want colorful stones, including red, terra cotta, gray, and brown. The Portland cement takes about three days to cure in the forms before you remove it from the frames. Two 60-pound bags of cement make two 15- by 18-inch stepping stones or numerous smaller stones.

Mixing and smoothing tools Mix the cement in a wheelbarrow or watertight cart. Use a water hose to carefully add water until the cement is workable and thick. Do not add much water at a time. You can always add more, but it is not good if you get the cement too oversaturated. You want a mixture that is just moistened thoroughly. A shovel or hoe can be used to mix the cement. You can use an empty plastic coffee can to transfer the cement to the forms. A cement-smoothing trowel is very helpful in getting the cement smooth and into the edges. You don’t have to line the molds with plastic or spray them. Fill the mold to the top with cement and try to get it as level and smooth as possible. This takes a little time. Expect there will be a thin layer of cement underneath the edges of the mold, this is normal when you are pressing the cement in. It usually falls off when you remove the stone, so don’t worry that they don’t look perfect at this stage.

Leaf impressions Think about your design beforehand. Pick and lay out your leaves right before mixing the cement (no sooner) or they will 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

13 Designing stepping stones brings out the “artist” in a Michigan gardener! start to wilt. When the cement is as smooth as you can get it, place the leaves you have selected—rib side down—on top of the cement and press them into the stones evenly. The cement should not come over the top of the leaves! This is also the time to press your letters or numbers in, or write something on the stones. The leaves will remain in the stones until they are completely dry. The pre-made letters and numbers are trickier and have to be removed after an hour or so. The cement molds are plastic or wood and allow the cement to be released when completely dry. Don’t try to take the stones out before a few days of curing or they will crack and be ruined. The cement may seem hard after one day, but don’t be fooled. Take the stones out in 3 to 4 days by carefully wiggling the wood or plastic form and pushing them out the top of the form. Don’t touch the pressed leaves until you remove the stone

from the mold. The leaves can then be peeled off or will wear off with the weather as they dry. Don’t use harsh brushes to remove the leaves as this will damage the cement surface. Wash your molds after use with the garden hose. They are reusable. Also be sure to wash hands or anything that comes in contact with the cement as it is very harsh on skin. Now is the time to admire your stones and set them in place. This is a great project that will enhance your garden. We make new stones every summer. They get better and better as we learn what leaves work the best and what designs we like. Many of our original stones are over 30 years old now and they still look fabulous. Jean and Roxanne Riggs operated Sunshine Farm and Garden in Oakland County, MI and now enjoy retirement up north.

MichiganGardener.com | May 2016 | Michigan Gardener

Send us Your Photos!

through the lens Photographs from the homes and travels of Michigan gardeners

“A prickly pear cactus with fukuzumi Japanese white pine.” —Ian Smith

“This hydrangea is a memorial given to me by my mother-inlaw when my darling furry loved one, Chi Chi the chihuahua, passed away 3 years ago. It is surrounded by a sedum carpet of pink, and a hakone grass.” —Diane Downes

1. E-mail us 1 or 2 of your best garden photos. Be sure to e-mail the full-resolution file. 2. Include a caption describing the scene and the plants, including where the photo was taken. We are looking for photos of your garden, public gardens, and plant close-ups. If your photo is published, we’ll give you a free one-year subscription to Michigan Gardener. E-mail your photos to: photos@MichiganGardener.com.

A picture perfect dahlia bloom.

“My husband built this playhouse in our yard ‘for the grandkids’ (but really it’s for me). I love the colorful gardens around it, and there’s no place we’d rather be than in our backyard paradise.” —Nancy Rudnik

Michigan Gardener | May 2016 | MichiganGardener.com

Jim Slezinski Jim Slezinski

A beautiful tiled floor and fountain in the Temperate House.

Jim Slezinski

The Climatron has no interior support and no columns from floor to ceiling, which allows more light and space per square foot for plants than conventional greenhouse designs.

The peak bloom of the remarkable witchhazel collection occurs in February, just one advantage of a wintertime visit.

Missouri Botanical Garden

The Japanese garden comes alive with blazing colors in the fall.

MichiganGardener.com | May 2016 | Michigan Gardener

An American treasure

A visit to the magnificent Missouri Botanical Garden should be on Michigan gardeners’ wish lists

Missouri Botanical Garden Missouri Botanical Garden

The plantings in the Victorian district at the Missouri Botanical Garden are formal in nature and reflect the style of the Victorian era.

first toured the Missouri Botanical Garden well over ten years ago, and little did I realize the history and importance this St. Louis treasure offered to gardeners. Seventy-nine magnificent acres of botanical, horticultural and historical materials reside here, in addition to the architecturally significant buildings and inspirational fountains and statuary. Founded in 1859, the Missouri Botanical Garden is the nation’s oldest botanical garden in continuous operation, and is a National Historic Landmark.

The beginnings A young man and English immigrant, later to become a fine entrepreneur, Henry Shaw came to North America in 1818, making his fortune as a merchant in St. Louis, Missouri. Retiring at age 40, Shaw wanted to create a destination: “Henry’s Garden.” First though he travelled to Europe and the Mediterranean for inspiration and ideas. Upon his return to Missouri, he began to develop gar-

dens around his country estate southwest of the city. Living in his Italianate villa (later to become Tower Grove House) there on a desolate prairie, Shaw pursued his passion for plants with the help and guidance of preeminent botanists at the time. His dream of a public garden was soon to become a reality.

ples of flowers, twigs, grasses and more are freshly cut and displayed. As you step outdoors, clean and level walking and tram pathways lead to a myriad of themed gardens. My interest in woody trees and shrubs initially direct me to a walk through the English woodland garden. All plants are well labeled. February almost always brings out Outdoor gardens the witchhazel (Hamamelis) flowMy visit was a February winter ers; some with alluring fragrance. sojourn, a nontraditional time for Ample cultivars are scattered a garden tour. Yet there is so much throughout. New to me were ‘Twito explore, both indoors and out. light,’ a red-flowering, short shrub Upon entering, the contemporary and ‘Sunburst,’ radiant with bright architecture of the visitor center’s yellow flowers. glass facade beacons to the look of Without foliage in winter, trees’ the monumental 19th century, now branch growth patterns, trunks, Jim gone, “Crystal Palace” greenhouse and silhouettes are of interest. Slezinski of London. Shaw was inspired Winter aconite (Eranthis cilicica), seeing it then in 1851. Today a massive blue lenten rose (Helleborus orientalis), crocus, and garden chandelier by noted glass artist Dale the mottled foliage of Italian arum (Arum itaChihuly welcomes all. A garden cart informs licum) are grouped in natural beds along log“what’s in bloom today” in the garden—samlined paths, just like Kew Gardens in Britain.

A huge blue glass chandelier by famed artist Dale Chihuly welcomes all in the visitor center. Traveling on from the woodland to the Victorian district gardens presents a complete opposite in landscape design. Formal boxwood hedges, structured symmetrical beds, and a geometric herb garden surround the Tower Grove House. The back side of Shaw’s house now features a grove of stately dawn redwood trees (Metasequoia glyptostroboides), while the front a remnant of the original sassafras tree grove. The house (now a Victorian-furnished museum) was so aptly named due to the native colony of the sassafras trees there in 1849. A life-size bronze sculpture of Shaw stands invitingly next to a park bench near the front entrance. The February backdrop includes winterberry holly shrubs (Ilex verticillata ‘Shaver’), colorful in brilliant red. A grouping of oaks encompasses the pink marble mausoleum where Shaw is interred. The evergreen liriope, Baltic ivy, and euonymus carpet the oak understory. continued on next page

Michigan Gardener | May 2016 | MichiganGardener.com

V Website Extra Go to MichiganGardener.com and click on “Website Extras” for more beautiful photos of the Missouri Botanical Garden.

continued from previous page Giant snowdrops (Galanthus elwesii) push up early through these groundcovers and are clustered in white, nodding flower heads. Through an antique black wrought iron fence, another fantastic garden is on the horizon to explore. Here, one of North America’s largest traditional Japanese gardens lies on 14 acres, the perimeter around a five-acre lake. Having a four-season display of sculptural trees, shrubs, textured foliage, color and man-made elements, my winter views were exceptional. Snow in this style garden is considered to be a “flower.” Graceful forms of tree branches, stone lanterns and bridges are delineated by snow cover. Another wonderful Asian garden, the Chinese garden is modeled after gardens near Nanjing, China, the sister city to St. Louis. Rustic, highly-eroded limestone boulders and rocks dot the landscape along with a water feature. Entrance is through the moon gate, a circular form through a white stucco wall. This mimics the full moon, a symbol of perfection in Chinese philosophy. “Landscape” in Chinese is “shan shui,” literally meaning “mountains and water.” The vertical rock works and boulders hint at the idea of mountains and from there come waterfalls to create a meandering stream.

is the oldest public greenhouse west of the Mississippi, designed and built in 1882. Red brick walls with large Palladian windows enclose this cool temperate climate building, lush with camellia shrubs. February is the ideal time to see these southern clime beauties in bountiful bloom at their peak. Other plants of zones 7 and 8 grow on here for viewing in St. Louis’ zone 6 climate. After a short hike, a path leads to the crown jewel of greenhouse architecture. An ambitious construction project in 1959 began to house the in-ground palm trees remaining unprotected outdoors after the original Palm House was demolished. It was to be a massive greenhouse without interior subdivisions. This futuristic, aluminum-braced glass design was to be a geodesic dome. Opening in 1960, its coined name was “Climatron,” one of the first computer-designed structures. In 1976, the American Institute of Architects named it one of the 100 most significant architectural achievements in the United States. A spectacular, lush tropical forest covering the 1.3 million-cubic foot Climatron interior— replete with waterfalls, birds and over 1,300 species of plants—awaits the Midwestern winter visitor for an 85-degree F respite. Besides ornamental plants, important tropical food plants can be viewed: sugar cane, bananas, coffee, cocoa, and vanilla orchids. Some huge 200-year-old cycads spread their fronds among the changing world-class orchid collection. Outdoors, at the eastern Climatron entrance, the circular and rectangular reflecting pools are framed by mature bald cypress trees (Taxo-

Missouri Botanical Garden

Level and comfortable pathways wind throughout the gardens. This path leads visitors through the English woodland garden.

Magnificent greenhouses After walking for a while in the cold, I took warm refuge on many occasions in one of the three magnificent glass-covered houses. The Linnean House, named in honor of 18th century Swedish botanist Carl Linnaeus,

Jim Slezinski

The Linnean House is the oldest continuously operated public greenhouse west of the Mississippi, designed and built in 1882.

Jim Slezinski

Even in February, foliage in the conifer garden looks fabulous.

MichiganGardener.com | May 2016 | Michigan Gardener

Missouri Botanical Garden

In the Chinese garden, “mountains and water” are paramount. The rock and boulders represent the idea of mountains.

Missouri Botanical Garden

Cameras are clicking every year at the annual orchid show.

Missouri Botanical Garden

The 14-acre Japanese garden, one of the largest in North America, displays carefully designed plantings, waterfalls, beaches and islands.

Missouri Botanical Garden

The Linnean House features dozens of camellia trees, citrus plants, and sub-tropical plant collections.

dium distichum). During the winter, ice and snow contrast well in this spacious area. Another greenhouse of special note and not to be missed adjoins the Climatron. The Temperate House, built in 1990, has a Mediterranean climate: warm and dry during the summers, and cool and damp to wet during the winter. One can stroll atop the upper gardens seeing cyclamen, primroses, aloes, cactus, agaves, and daphnes to name a few. From the outlook covered with a carved stone portico remnant you can see a colorful, tiled Moorish garden highlighting the main floor lower level. This fountain-centered garden was modeled from an 11th century garden at the Alhambra in Granada, Spain. Ornamental potted flowers of the season add to the ambience of the scene. Upon departing either greenhouse, other outdoor surprises appear. A four-season rock garden with flowering bulbs, perennials, shrubs and collected plants

from the former Soviet Republic of Georgia spreads nicely and fittingly along both sides of the walkway. Nearby a dwarf conifer garden showcases many forms and shapes with textured and colored foliage. Whether dressed in snow cover or not, these shrub profiles present fabulous winter interest. There is one more event yet to cap off the winter tour: the orchid show, annually held on the lower level. Around every February through mid-March, the epitome of a themed orchid show decorates a sizeable greenhouse room. Up-close viewing of many of the nearly 1,000 orchids from the world-famous collection are in a rotating, tastefully placed position for the exhibit. Spending a day or two in midwinter at the Missouri Botanical Garden can be educational, entertaining, and enlightening. This holds true for any other season of the year as well. Aside from the mentioned gardens and places of interest, there is even more to explore in spring, summer and fall. Other plant collections well worth seeing include the magnolia grove, scented garden, and rose, hosta, iris, bulb, daylily, boxwood and azalea-rhododendron specialty gardens. An expansive home gardening display incorporates over 20 idea gardens and demonstration beds with decorative plantings of seasonal annuals, interspersed with vegetable, flower, bird, butterfly, sun, shade, rain, rock, fruit and fragrance gardens. Interactive activities for family fun are the maze, children’s garden, koi fish feeding, and the George Washington Carver garden. The Missouri Botanical Garden is an American gem and should be on every Michigan gardener’s bucket list. So much there reflects what can be done by gardeners here in Michigan. For more information, visit www.mobot.org. Jim Slezinski is the Vice President and Senior Landscape Designer/Horticulturist at Goldner Walsh Garden and Home in Pontiac, MI.

Michigan Gardener | May 2016 | MichiganGardener.com

As you enter Ray Alexander’s yard, there is a sign post. In Japan, this is a welcome sign. Around the corner, the first thing that catches your eye is the 10,000-gallon, Japanese koi pond. Looking around the yard, you notice the bonsai trees and how they blend in with the landscaping. Alexander said, “The garden is a place where I can relax on my patio, hear the water running, and feel tranquil. That is also how I feel when I look at my bonsai trees.”

“I am always making changes to the garden, but the bonsai trees are points of interest that all the other plantings have to fit around. When I place a bonsai tree, I always try to compliment the tree with plants and shrubs that will show it off,” explained Alexander.

Ray Alexander

Alexander erects this greenhouse annually (the plastic lasts two years). The bonsai are placed on stands near the outside walls. The greenhouse keeps them warm until late December or early January. He doesn’t have to water them until the end of February or early March, depending on the winter.

The bonsai are placed on handmade pedestals with varying heights. Alexander constructed these blocky-style stands out of California redwood. The heights differ so the observer will ideally look at the center of the tree when viewing. The dark-stained, simple fence behind them shows off the tree shapes. From left to right, the trees are: white cedar (Thuja occidentalis), yew (Taxus baccata), Scotch pine (Pinus sylvestris), and Japanese black pine (Pinus thunbergii). continued from back cover could take 10 to 30 years to accomplish what your goal is for that tree. I wish I had started when I was younger! Which means you must be patient and allow the process to happen. You just don’t know from year to year what may happen to a tree, such as pests, hard winters, and lack of water.” In winter, he places his bonsai trees on the ground. Some are packed in mulch and snow, while others are placed in an unheated greenhouse to provide protection from the wind and bitter cold Michigan winters. To get the most satisfaction (and save money), Alexander suggests buying small trees and investing the time to create

your own bonsai, rather than purchasing mature plants. When purchasing a future bonsai, he looks for trees with unique trunks or examines how the branches flow from the trunk. He plants them in his landscape and watches them for about two years before beginning the training process. His favorite trees are pines, especially a black pine from his mentor Baresi. “I have a long-term goal for this particular tree to get fuller and then shape it as a slanted tree,” Alexander said. He enjoys trees that look windswept or grow on a slant along with having shari (deadwood) attached to the living part of the tree. “The deadwood tells a story and how the tree has struggled to survive and beat Mother Nature’s abuse.”

Ray Alexander

This white cedar (Thuja occidentalis) is easy to care for, according to Ray. He notes that cedars can take hard winters and are native to Michigan. The brick house retains heat from the sun during the day and radiates it back to the trees stored close to it, like a mini-microclimate.

MichiganGardener.com | May 2016 | Michigan Gardener

Jimmy Whiteley

Jimmy acquired this 162-year-old Rocky Mountain juniper (Juniperus scopulorum) at the Four Seasons Bonsai Club auction in 2000. It was collected out West from rocky terrain at a 5,000-foot elevation and contains interesting deadwood on the trunk.

Not all the trees in Whiteley’s backyard are bonsai. This special tree is one of his favorites: a weeping larch (Larix decidua ‘Pendula’) acquired in 2005. The branches are loaded with soft, fluffy tufts of green needles, which turn a brilliant yellow in the fall.

An engineer who works on military vehicles, Jimmy Whiteley has a degree in industrial design from Auburn University. He looks at the art of bonsai from his artistic and gardening viewpoint. “I grew up around family farms where my grandfather and uncles grew agricultural products. I had been growing plants for many years. As the years passed, I needed new gardening challenges. Many years ago I discovered bonsai as a young military officer traveling the world. Later on, while dealing in antiques, I thought how nice the furniture would look displayed with bonsai, but I didn’t do anything. In the early 1990s my wife and I discussed her raising orchids and me doing bonsai. I started reading, learned from masters and enthusiasts, and obtained an Advanced Master Gardener certification to support and help my hobby,” said Whiteley. Whiteley defines bonsai as, “An art form of growing trees in pots, where the trees look like large, old specimens that you would see in nature. That is my ultimate goal.” continued on next page

Jimmy Whiteley

Jimmy Whiteley acquired this Swiss stone pine (Pinus cembra) 37 years ago from a bonsai master. It stays outside all year long and is wintered on the ground. This slow-growing tree is native to mountain areas of central Europe.

Michigan Gardener | May 2016 | MichiganGardener.com

Jimmy Whiteley

This 67-year-old banyan fig (Ficus retusa) is Jimmy’s favorite. He has won several awards with it and observed the exact tree in nature on the island of Puerto Rico. “It was massive and looked like my bonsai; or vice versa,” smiled Whiteley.

This dawn redwood (Metasequoia glyptostroboides) was 8 feet tall with a 1-1/2-inch trunk when purchased in 1997. It was cut down to 3 feet. The next summer it grew 4 feet and was cut again. Today it is 4 feet tall with a trunk 5 inches wide.

continued from previous page While Ray Alexander prefers smaller pines and conifers, Whiteley has larger tropical plants along with trees. At one time, he had a huge collection. Today, he takes care of about 20 bonsai trees, which keeps him plenty busy. Whiteley’s special tree is a 162-year-old Rocky Mountain juniper (Juniperus scopulorum). “I acquired it at the Four Seasons Bonsai Club’s annual auction. However, it was collected out West many years before, from rocky terrain at an elevation of 5,000 feet. It has a lot of deadwood on the trunk. Over the P H OTO G R A P H S BY S A N D I E PA R R OT T past 15 years it has evolved and is unless otherwise indicated still evolving through its long life,” Whiteley described. This evolution is being helped along by Whiteley’s pot shape changes, deadwood bending, and tree shaping. According to both Alexander and Whiteley, a bonsai is never done. Whiteley explained, “It is a living entity that is evolving and aging just like a human being. Sometimes there is a tragedy in the tree’s life, whether it is the weather, illness, or even critter damage. It must change and adapt to stay alive. I am the caretaker for my bonsai and I help them to evolve.” Sandie Parrott is an Advanced Master Gardener who gardens and writes from her hilly lakeside property in northern Oakland County, Michigan.

Jimmy Whiteley

Most think of a bougainvillea as a vine, but Whiteley has transformed this 69-year-old, pink-blooming beauty into a bonsai. Some years, the flowers last 4-1/2 months! This plant spends the winters in a greenhouse.

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| May 2016 | MichiganGardener.com

Local experts use creativity and patience to nurture their specimen trees

f you ask ten people what “bonsai” is, you will probably receive ten different answers. The word is often used to generally describe miniature trees growing in containers. Bonsai is a Japanese pronunciation of the earlier Chinese term “penzai,” meaning miniature trees in pots. A “bon” is a tray-like pot used in bonsai culture. But it is so much more. The purposes of bonsai are primarily contemplation for the viewer and the pleasant exercise of effort and creativity for the grower. Many would add the virtue of patience.

Ray Alexander Ray Alexander of Troy, Michigan explains bonsai by saying, “Bonsai to me is looking at nature, but in a smaller version; as if you were looking at a very large tree at a distance. It is a form of art which involves a living part of nature.” Alexander has been practicing his hobby for about ten years. “Paul Baresi was a good friend, talented local artist, and my mentor for bonsai. We shared two hobbies, bonsai and our ponds. We were both members of the Michigan Koi and Pond Club. Paul is the main reason that I started in the art of bonsai. When I would visit his home to help with his pond, there were beautiful bonsai trees everywhere. That Sandie sparked my interest,” Alexander recalled. Parrott He honed his skill by reading books on bonsai and attending bonsai exhibits. He encourages interested people to attend meetings of the Four Seasons Bonsai Club, of which he is a member, to learn from other experienced hobbyists. “Bonsai appeals to me because as you look at a tree you have worked on for one day or many years, you get the satisfaction of looking at nature’s beauty at its best. I love designing my landscape. Bonsai is another way of accenting my modern Japanese garden, which contains a 12-foot pagoda, large koi pond, many pines and conifers, and a tsukubai water basin for purification on entering and leaving the garden,” explained Alexander. Bonsai trees require continual care and lots of patience. Alexander talked about caring for his bonsai, “The trees require watering every day because they are planted in shallow pots in soilless mixtures of lava rock, turface, or orchid bark. It takes time for the tree to grow in the way you are guiding it. Some trees continued on page 56

TOP: The initial view of Ray Alexander’s garden as you enter. This modern-style Japanese garden has many design elements, including the large pond, pergola and shed. Green is a color and Alexander uses it in all shapes, textures and sizes in his garden. Bonsai are located on the rocks around the pond. LEFT: Ray Alexander shows off his favorite 60-year-old Japanese black pine (Pinus thunbergii) bonsai tree that he has owned for eight years. It is a sentimental tree for him, since it was purchased from his mentor and friend, Paul Baresi.