Michigan Gardener - May 2020 by Michigan Gardener

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May 2020

MichiganGardener.com

Your guide to Great Lakes gardening

Cultivating a Gardening Community Since 1996

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Michigan Gardener | May 2020 | MichiganGardener.com

Garden Wisdom I cultivate my garden, and my garden cultivates me. —Robert Breault

Every year, Telly’s brings you an incomparable selection of the latest and greatest plant varieties. We travel from coast to coast in search of the best new plants. Just a small sampling of what’s new this year...

Ask MG............................................................6 To-Do List........................................................8 Vegetable Patch..........................................10 Tree Tips........................................................12 Dahlia Sincerity. Annual. Enormous bicolored flowers on plants 24" tall. Full Sun.

Impatiens 'Beacon' Series. Annual. They're back! First series of truly diseaseresistant Impatiens. Full to Part Shade.

How to: Grow and care for peonies �� 24 Advertiser Index........................................27 Perennial Perspectives: Dianthus........................................................30 Classified Ads.............................................35 Where to pick up Michigan Gardener.....................................37

Petunia SuperCal Lavender Star. Annual. Striking flowers. Vigorous, easy-to-grow plant. Full to Part Sun.

Salvia Roman Red. Annual. Loved by hummingbirds. Beautiful cherry-red flowers emerge from violet calyxes. 24-30" tall. Full Sun.

Places to Grow...........................................38 Calendar....................................................... 40 Subscription Form.................................... 40 Through the Lens......................................42 Weather........................................................43 Books for the Michigan Gardener......43 Feature: Oak wilt ��Back cover

Echinacea Sombrero Sangrita. Perennial. Vivid orange-red flowers July to early Sept. 20-24" tall. Full to Part Sun.

Hibiscus Summer Carnival. Perennial. Lots of 7-inch, dark magenta flowers July to early Sept, above cream VARIEGATED foliage. 4-4.5' tall. Full to Part Sun.

Hellebore Mother of the Bride. Perennial. Double flowers in EARLY Spring. Best in Shade to Part Shade. Deer resistant.

On the cover: See our letter to readers on page 5.

Publisher/Editor Eric Hofley Spigelia Little Redhead. Perennial. Native. Also known as Indian Paint brush. Blooms late spring thru summer. 24" tall. Full to Part Sun.

Design & Production Jonathon Hofley Advertising Eric Hofley Circulation Jonathon Hofley

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Editorial Assistant Anna Doman

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Contributors Brian Allnutt Neil/Ruth Atzinger Karen Bovio Cheryl English Emaline Fronckowiak Mary Gerstenberger Julia Hofley Rosann Kovalcik Beverly Moss George Papadelis Traven Pelletier Roxanne Riggs David L. Roberts Jim Slezinski Lisa Steinkopf Steve Turner Emily Wilson

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Petunia ‘Midnight Gold’ New Annuals for 2020 �� 16

30747 Greenfield Rd., Suite 1 Southfield, MI 48076 Phone: 248-594-5563 Fax: 248-594-5564 publisher@MichiganGardener.com E-mail: Website: www.MichiganGardener.com Publishing schedule 5 issues per year: April, May, June, July/Aug, Sept/Oct. Published the first week of the month. Subscriptions (Please make check payable to Michigan Gardener) 1 year (5 issues) for $14 Back issues All past issues are available. Please send your request along with a check for $3.00 per issue payable to Michigan Gardener. Copyright © 2020 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.

MichiganGardener.com | May 2020 | Michigan Gardener

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On the Cover This past March, Michigan gardeners were ramping up their excitement while anxiously awaiting the arrival of spring. No one realized that this spring would soon be permanently etched in our memories. Here in Michigan, priorities shifted in a matter of days. Paramedics, nurses, doctors and hospital staffs bravely confronted a wave of historic proportions. Seemingly overnight, a formerly distant virus became the primary topic of everyone’s conversation. To everyone working in health care and the countless others doing the work behind the scenes to keep us supplied with essentials and operating our lives from home, we thank you. While many of our routines were placed on pause, one thing remained unchanged—we could still work in our gardens. In a period of time overflowing with somber news, gardeners planted vegetables and dreamed of the gardens they would soon plant. This pandemic has reminded us of the strength and value of the gardening community. Our cover this month is a tribute to our readers, advertisers, and writers (see the caption at right) that have helped make Michigan Gardener possible for 24 years. Thank you.

Row 1, left to right: • George Papadelis, Telly's Greenhouse • Janie Saltarelli, Auburn Oaks Garden Center • John Steinkopf, Steinkopf Nursery • Jennifer Fairfield, The Garden Mill Row 2, left to right: • John VanDerAue, reader • Alicia Boyd, reader • Sally Bolle, reader • Steve Martinko, Contender's Tree & Lawn Specialists Row 3, left to right: • Steve Turner, writer • Amy Fraleigh, Fraleighs Landscape Nursery • Eric Hofley, Michigan Gardener • Erica Lee Jackson, Westcroft Gardens • Michael Craig, reader Row 4, left to right: • Jonathon Hofley, Michigan Gardener • Cheri McCallum, Association of Professional Gardeners • Gordon Rettie, Gordon's Lawn Core Aeration • Bev Moss, writer

Michigan Gardener | May 2020 | MichiganGardener.com

Hydrangeas not growing well

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Our 12-year-old Endless Summer hydrangeas have growth problems. We do fertilize, but they don’t produce the growth they once did; we would like them to grow taller. The shrubs receive about 3 to 4 hours of sun and the bed has irrigation. In March, we deadhead old flowers and do a minor trim, being careful not to remove the buds. Any advice? R.P., Pleasant Ridge Some new theories are coming to light about growth problems in shrubs and trees. When there is a growth problem, the first place to look is at the roots. It means lifting every hydrangea and washing off all the soil. Then inspect the roots in detail. The roots often grow in a circle in the nursery pot and then we plant them, minimally breaking up the root ball. There may be girdling roots hidden inside that root ball. Plus, root nematodes could be feasting within the congestion. Start by examining the root ball and cleaning and pruning out girdling or diseased roots. Check for pests. Replant with fresh soil and compost mix, making sure that the root flare is placed at soil level and not un-

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Understory trees for the woods We live on a wooded lot and we generally clear brush from our forested area, which is populated with mature oaks, hickory and maples. We have planted a number of Canadian hemlocks on the forest margins, but we need more understory trees to fill in as the woods mature. Can you recommend several species that would thrive in these conditions? R.M., Ypsilanti Clearing the brush from a forested area can remove early habitat and food sources for wildlife and insects. Choose to remove only the invasives, such as buckthorn, Chinese bittersweet, and grapevine. The definition of an understory tree is one that’s truly shade tolerant and thrives in forest floor soil. Understory trees often have their show when the taller canopy is not leafed out or filled in. There are several solid performers in zone 5. Be careful where you plant the new introductions as oaks, hickories and maples all form root colonies below ground. Do not overly disturb their connectedness. In addition, maples can be allelopathic. They exude

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derground. Planting too deep produces many adventitious roots above the flare, which we think are the root ball but are not. Remove those adventitious roots. Add a small amount of granular acidifying fertilizer to the backfill, and keep it consistently watered all season. Stop fertilizing after July so as not to produce excessive green growth. The key is water more than fertilizer. The hotter it gets, the more these big leaf hydrangeas transpire and lose moisture. They essentially go dormant and do not bloom. It appears you are pruning correctly, but keep your watering consistent for the season. Irrigation systems meant for lawns are not sufficient for garden plants that need deep watering. Remember maximum height on Endless Summer hydrangeas is roughly 5 feet.

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MichiganGardener.com | May 2020 | Michigan Gardener

Have a question? Send it in! chemicals in the soil that can thwart the success of a new introduction, ensuring their own survival and success. Choosing and planting younger specimens minimizes root disturbance and gives the new plant a chance to develop in a dense area. Do not over plant, just because there are many choices. Please note that all these species need some sun to photosynthesize. Bloom times also listed: – Common witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana), October-November (yellow). – Hybrid witch hazel (H. x intermedia), February-March (yellows-orange to red). – Redbud (Cercis canadensis), early May (pink). – Pagoda dogwood (Cornus alternifolia) May-June (white). – Serviceberry (Amelanchier canadensis), late April (white). – Highbush cranberry (Viburnum trilobum) May-June (white). – Mountain silverbell (Halesia tetraptera), April (white). – Ironwood/American hop hornbeam (Ostrya virginiana), April (inconspicuous) You could also intersperse oakleaf hydrangeas, which bloom late season and hold their bracts through winter. Choose your locations carefully for sun and minimal root interference. Then choose for continuing color through the season. Protect trunks from deer and rabbit browse, and new leaf canopies from deer foraging.

Eliminate weeds from flower beds How do I get rid of persistent weeds in the flower garden? I have used weed killer, vinegar, and other stuff with no luck. P.S., St. Clair Shores Weeds that persist are generally prolific seeders or rhizomatous runners or both. They can be a nightmare to eradicate, especially if a nearby lawn is harboring most of them. Try to remove any seed heads if you cannot manually pull them out. Watch how your lawn is mowed and where the cuttings are cast. It may be a simple matter of changing the mower direction so the cut is not tossed into the garden bed. Despite popular belief, landscape fabric in a garden bed does not stop weeds. Remove any fabric and you will see the roots stuck in the material. Add compost to the bed after removing any fabric, and spread 2 to 3 inches of double shredded hardwood mulch, undyed. The mulch suppresses germination of latent weed seeds in the soil and also keeps the soil moist and temperate for the desirable plants. You can use a fine-tine hand cultivator to remove perennial weed rosettes in early spring to get a jump start on any colonies. The sooner they are extracted, the less likely they are to come back, or reach seed status.

Go to MichiganGardener.com and click on “Submit a question” You can check online at www.canr.msu. edu/pestid/resources/plant-and-weedidentification/index to identify the particular pests you have. Knowing your enemy can tell you how to stop it. The sweat equity of manual extraction is often less expensive than “weed killers, vinegar, and other stuff” that don’t generally work.

In times like these, gardens and peace of mind are essential

Groundcover plants for hill I have a steep hill 20 feet high that goes down to a lake. I want to find the best ivy or groundcover that will prevent erosion and preserve the hill, but be a low grower. What do you recommend? T.W., Woodland, MI The USDA Soil Survey for your area (Barry County) indicates the area has a loam mixture. To get a more specific soil diagnosis, obtain an MSU soil test kit and send in a sample following the directions, specifying you wish to plant on a slope leading down to a lake that will prevent erosion. The results will tell you what the soil contains, if it needs amending, and by how much. Consider adding clusters of small boulders staggered down the hillside. These act as weirs for sudden downpours, helping to control wash out. A plant monoculture has intrinsic problems. If disease or insects invade, you can lose the entire planting. A select variety of plants will be more successful than one species. Make a scale diagram of the space and consider using a mixture of very low shrubs and perennials. When specifying plants, keep in mind that the bottom of the hill gets more water than the top due to gravity. Place them on the slope per the diagram spacing, strategically placing the shrubs throughout the hill. Allow space for a zigzag foot path for any maintenance. Shrubs are your anchors around which other plants can exist. Low-growing, spreading junipers come in green, blue, and gold evergreen colors that thrive on slopes with minimal water. This also gives you winter interest when the perennials are winter dormant. Interplant with spreading perennials such as ajuga, basket-of-gold, lavender, and blue fescue grass. These bloomers have a low profile, and little to no maintenance once established. Lavender and blue fescue are present year-round. They all have few insect and disease issues and are drought tolerant. The first year of planting, all specimens will need consistent and regular watering, as a slope will drain and heat up more quickly from the sun. So getting roots established the first year is paramount for success. Answers provided by Beverly Moss, owner of Garden Rhythms.

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Michigan Gardener | May 2020 | MichiganGardener.com

Feature Task: Convert a sunny lawn area into an environmentally-friendly garden Annuals • Preparation is the name of the game for a long season of blooms. Prepare your beds in early May for planting in late May. Add 2 to 4 inches of organic material and work into the top 4 to 6 inches of the soil in your annual beds. Add a slow-release fertilizer to your annual beds to provide additional nutrients to your plants. • Consider how flowers performed last summer. If you’ve always planted geraniums in a certain spot, and the last few years they haven’t been blooming as expected, the garden may be getting more shade than it used to. It may be time to plant a different flower more suited to the amount of sun your garden now receives. • Experiment with at least one new variety of annuals this spring. There are so many to choose from in great new colors; it’s hard to go wrong with any of these new beauties as long as you give them the right amount of sun or shade.

Bulbs: Summer-Flowering • Once the danger of frost has passed, plant tender summer bulbs, like dahlias and gladiolas, directly into the garden. Enrich

For many reasons, homeowners are looking to ditch the grass and create a garden that’s beautiful and environmentally friendly. With this garden, you’ll reduce energy and water use, attract beneficial insects and wildlife, minimize waste, reuse materials and supplies, and create a more self-sustainable ecosystem. Here are some simple ways to get started. Transform the lawn. Since grass is probably growing in your new garden space, you’ll need to remove it. Three options: 1) Kill the grass by covering it with sheets of black plastic. You’ll still need to remove the grass roots; dispose of them via yard waste bags. 2) Use a naturefriendly herbicide like Natria, according to manufacturer’s instructions. 3) Cut pieces of sod out and patch other areas in your yard. Turn the soil with a shovel or rototill the entire garden. Add amendments to create a rich, loamy bed. If the soil is mostly clay, add soil conditioner. If it’s mostly sand, add some peat moss and compost. The right plant in the right place. When selecting plants for your garden, consider moisture, sunlight, drainage and soil quality. Plants that are suited to their environment will grow better and will be less prone to disease and insects, reducing the need for chemical pesticides.

Make your own compost. Use your yard waste and make compost. Leaves, grass trimmings, yard waste, and kitchen scraps will create nutritious food for your soil. Spread compost around plants or mix in with your potting soil to create a rich planting material for garden beds or containers. Save the water. Water in the morning, as air temperatures are cooler and less water will be lost to evaporation. Another option is to install a drip irrigation system, allowing water to drip slowly and directly to the roots of your plants. Consider collecting roof runoff with a rain barrel. This holds captured water for later use and reduces the amount of water on your land. Think of it as free water for your garden! Maintain a 2- to 3-inch layer of mulch over your garden bed. This conserves moisture, regulates temperature and keeps weed down. Mulch also enriches the soil as it breaks down. Reduce pesticides and insecticides. Use organic products to protect plants from insects and disease. Conventional methods used incorrectly can be harmful, particularly to pollinators. Always follow manufacturer’s instructions. When in doubt, ask experts for advice. Bring on the beneficial insects. Introduce beneficial insects, rather than insecticides,

into your garden to prey on unwanted pests and create an overall healthier ecosystem. Ladybugs prefer to eat aphids, but will eat scale, mealybug, leafhopper, and corn earworm. The more they eat, the more ladybugs breed, replacing damaging insects with beneficial ones to continue defending your garden. Use beneficial nematodes in concealed environments, such as root zones, tree galleries, thatch of lawns, bark cracks, crowns of plants, and corn tassels. These good guys attack more than 230 kinds of soil-dwelling and wood-boring pests, like flea larvae, white grubs, and cutworms. The praying mantis is always hungry and will eat just about anything they can fit in their mouth, including aphids, thrips, leafhoppers and chinch bugs. Welcome the pollinators. Pollinators like bees, butterflies and hummingbirds are essential to our ecosystem and provide vital natural resources. Providing them with a comfortable place to call home will help them do their job more efficiently and effectively. Fill your garden with nectar and pollen-rich plants and remember to provide a source of shelter, food and water.

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the soil with bone meal. Fertilize these plants throughout the summer. You’ll get larger bulbs to dig up in the fall, which translates into more flowers for next year.

Fruits • Dwarf varieties of blueberries are great as landscape plants. Incorporate them into the garden with other ornamental plants. To increase blueberry fruit production, plant them with lots of peat moss. Be prepared to drape plants with netting to keep birds away while fruit is ripening.

Herbs • 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.

Lawn • Fertilizer comes in two forms: liquid and granular. Liquids are great for a quick green, but don’t last long. They encourage a lot of green growth, which means more frequent mowing. Granular fertilizers are typically slow-release formulas. • Regular mowing is essential. Do not cut off more than 1/3 of the grass blade height at a time. Mowing grass too short causes stress, which leads to problems.

Perennials • Finish cutting back any of last year’s dead plant material to allow the new shoots to grow. Remove all debris from the garden. • Now is a good time to pull any weeds that have invaded the perennial bed.

Roses • Fertilizer is important during May to keep roses healthy for the rest of the year. • If you have had black spot problems in the past, apply a systemic fungicide now to help combat it. • Prune roses so growth heads toward the outside of the plant, keeping the plant’s inside open.

nual bed, early this month. Add organic material, and work it into the top 4 to 6 inches of the soil. Also add organic fertilizer to give plants additional nutrients. • Onion sets can be planted when it’s cool, as soon as you can work in the ground. A tip to get larger onions: plant so half of the bulb is above the ground. Plant every few weeks to stagger harvest time. • Once the danger of frost has passed, plant vegetable plants or seeds directly into your prepared area. Use the earlier part of the month to lay out your plot, and be sure to change location of plants from last year.

Vines • Vines are a great way to get color into the 4to 8-foot high area of the garden. Frequently, garden color stops at about three feet and then starts again from hanging baskets at about eight feet. Use vines to fill that void. • Check out the shorter-growing, longerblooming, more cold-tolerant varieties of clematis. Mix several varieties on one trellis for a great show all season long. Provided by the professionals at English Gardens.

Shrubs & Trees • Cut back butterfly bushes late this month. It is difficult to tell what parts are alive and which are dead until later in the month. Remember, many butterfly bushes are rapid growers, and you might want to cut them back severely to keep them from growing out of control. • May is a great time to plant trees. Remember to look around you and see what is already planted. Plant different trees on your property to diversify the tree population.

Vegetables • Prepare your vegetable garden like an an-

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Michigan Gardener | May 2020 | MichiganGardener.com

Beans

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here is so much to say on the different flavorful. They come in bush and pole variettypes of beans, varieties, and uses. ies. Since they all have similar growRunner beans, such as scarlet runner, may ing conditions, let’s begin with how to grow be grown as much for their flowers as for them. their fruit. These vining beans are more cold Beans are one of the easiest vegetables to tolerant than most green beans and might be grow and will rank second, third or fourth planted earlier in May. Actually, they do beton lists of favorite garden vegetables. For the ter in cooler weather. These beans may be most part, they are a warm weather crop and used like green beans, or the dried seeds may are best planted from seed when the soil tembe stored for cooking. There are half-runner peratures are at least 60 degrees F. In Michibeans available that are much shorter than gan, that means at least not until the end of the full runner beans, which can grow up to May. They need full sun: eight hours or more. 15 feet in length. The preferred soil is loose, well-drained and Shell or pod beans, such as lima beans, with a pH of 6.5. If you need to loosen the fava beans, and edamame (edible soybeans) soil, add compost to help with drainage and are grown for their seed, which is harvested to provide additional organic matter. Keep when the pods are plump, but the seeds are the plants watered, especially durstill soft. The pods are “shelled” ing dry weather, and follow soil test like peas to remove the green seeds recommendations for fertilizing. which are then cooked before eatCheck package instructions for ing. Fava beans are more cold tolplanting depth and days to maturierant and prefer cooler weather. ty. Also, bear in mind that beans are If the seeds are allowed to mature susceptible to a number of different and dry, they will need to be hulled problems, so check for disease rebefore cooking. Check for bush and sistance information on the variety pole varieties of shell beans. you purchase. Dry beans include a wide vaMary There are two basic types of riety such as kidney, cannellini, Gerstenberger beans: bush and pole (vining). Bush pinto, navy, black beans, etc. They beans are shorter than pole beans, are grown for their seed and also although some types may still need a little have bush and pole varieties. The pods are alsupport. They have a short period of harvest lowed to dry on the plant and then harvested and tend to produce less than pole beans. Beand shelled. The beans are stored and used cause of the short harvest time, it is usually for cooking. It is recommended that neither recommended to make successive plantings, the pod nor seed of dry beans, such as kidney two weeks apart. Pole beans can get five feet beans, and shell beans, such as fava beans, tall or more, and will definitely need trellis should be eaten raw, as they can pose a health support. They produce for a longer period of risk. time, right up until fall, and therefore may While beans are wonderful for eating, they produce a greater quantity of beans over time. are also very useful in the garden. As part of Pole beans are also easier to harvest. the pea family of plants, they are able to fix When it comes to the variety of beans, nitrogen in the soil. Rotating the beans with well, there is just so much to choose from! heavy feeders, such as corn, is beneficial to Snap beans, sometimes referred to as string both soil and crop. beans, come in green, yellow and purple vaMichigan State University has lots of great rieties. The yellow are usually called wax information on beans. To find it, type this in beans or butter beans because of their color. your web browser: growing beans site:msu. The purple beans turn green when cooked. edu. Snap beans are probably the most frequently Mary Gerstenberger was the Consumer Horgrown beans in the home garden. There are ticulture Coordinator at the Michigan State bush and pole varieties and the pods are harUniversity Extension in Macomb County, MI. vested immature to eat raw or cooked. For vegetable and gardening information from Romano or Italian beans have flat pods, MSU, visit www.migarden.msu.edu. come in both bush and pole varieties, and may be used like green beans or allowed to Call the toll-free Michigan State University mature and be used as a dry bean. French or Lawn and Garden Hotline at 888-678-3464 filet beans are similar to green beans in use, for answers to your gardening questions. but the pods are very thin and are also very

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ow do we determine the value of a tree? This is not always an easy question to answer because there are so many factors to consider. Plus, the word “value” needs to be precisely defined. Are we talking about the value of the environmental benefits that a tree gives us? Or the value of a lost or damaged tree? Or maybe just the value of what that tree can provide in food or lumber. Or simply the personal value a particular tree may bring to you. The public’s awareness of tree benefits and the need for more trees has increased dramatically. Most people now recognize that trees give us so much more than just wood, oxygen, and something pretty to look at. We now understand that trees filter the air we breathe and the water we drink, reduce storm water runoff and soil erosion, block the wind, cool the air, and provide shade to reduce energy costs. They even reduce crime and stress in neighborhoods with their calming effects. And maybe most important, trees sequester carbon, a key component in the battle against climate change.

Annual monetary tree benefits So how much is all this worth? It depends on your tree. You can get the annual benefits a tree provides by visiting www.treebenefits. com/calculator and simply entering your zip code, selecting your Steve tree species, and entering the tree’s Turner diameter. It will give you a dollar amount for the tree. Diameter and species are the two main factors in this determination of value, since not all trees are as beneficial as others at certain things. The bigger the tree is, the more it can do to help us. For example, I entered a 36-inch diameter white oak in our area and learned it gives us an annual benefits value of $352. If that tree is maintained properly and grows to 41 inches, it will be almost $400 in benefits yearly.

Value of tree loss or damage

28500 HAAS RD • NEW HUDSON, MI 48165 • 248-437-2094 www.milarchnursery.com • Mon-Fri: 8-5:30 Sat: 8-3 Sun: Closed

When you get into tree loss or damage, it gets much more complicated if the tree is larger than one that can be purchased. If a new tree can be purchased, we simply use the replacement value of that tree. If the tree is larger, we use the purchase value as a base and then we factor in the species, size, condition, and location to determine a value. Each region has a species guide that determines the percent value of every species that grows in that area and assigns it a rating based on its desirability in the landscape. Weedy, invasive or weak tree species have

less value than ones with better attributes. Next is the size of the tree—the bigger it is, the more it’s worth. The tree size is determined by measuring the tree’s diameter 4-1/2 feet from the ground. Once the species and size are determined, the next step is to evaluate both the health and structure of the tree to establish its condition. The health evaluation determines if the tree has any insect, disease or environmental stresses, and if so, are they serious enough to kill or severely weaken the tree or are they cosmetic or easily correctable. If the tree isn’t dying or ready to fall over, we give it a health rating. Structure considers the tree from top to bottom. Are the branch attachments strong or weak? Well spaced or crowded? Do they have stress cracks or poor angles? On the trunk, we are watching for cracks, cavities or decay. We look at the angle at which the trunk grows and its taper. Then we inspect the base and root flare, looking again for decay or cavities; girdling roots and other deformities that may weaken the tree; damage to buttress roots; or the presence of mushrooms at the tree’s base. Finally, we move on to its location. Just like in real estate, this means everything. A specimen tree in the wrong location can be severely devalued. The worst place a tree can be is in a utility easement. When deciding where to plant your shade trees, make sure to put them outside the easement and where they will not grow into those areas, so you maintain their value. Two identical trees in a yard, one in an easement and the other not, will be far apart in value even if the one in the easement has not yet been harmed. Just the fact that it lies in the easement devalues it, so know your easements before you plant. The highest value trees are in arboretums, prestigious locations, and historically important sites. All other areas fall somewhere in between. Front yard trees have the highest value in the landscape because they have the greatest effect on real estate value. This also works in reverse: the real estate value of a neighborhood also affects tree values. If a $20,000 tree is sitting in front of a $40,000 house, the value needs to be adjusted accordingly. It would be hard to argue that tree is worth half the value of the property. However, the same tree in an upscale area might be valued at its full potential.

Tree appraisal Once all the data is collected, put into the

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formulas, and adjusted for other factors, an experienced appraiser can put a dollar value on a tree that can be used for insurance purposes, recognized in court for litigation purposes, etc. Similarly, if you experience a significant and unexpected loss of a valuable tree (there is criteria for this), the IRS may allow deductions in some cases for the loss of home value. Nobody expects to need this valuation service, but there are a few things you can do to make it easier in case you do. First, take pictures of your trees now to document them, preferably both summer and winter shots, and from different perspectives. Next, if you do experience a loss, again document with photos and, if possible, contact an appraiser before you have it removed, but definitely before you grind the stump. The evaluator is going to need something to work with; the more there is to look at, the better. In a pinch, they can use photos and stumps in some circumstances. Some other reasons a tree appraisal might

be needed: loss in a storm, fire, or car accident; neighbor disputes; removal of the wrong tree; or condemnation of land for roads or utilities (one of the most common reasons).

Food and lumber value If we look at trees just as commodities, then they will be valued by the fruit or nuts they bear or the lumber and board feet they yield. Typically, a tree’s timber value is much lower than its landscape value. Most standing timber is valued at a few hundred dollars per log. The exception is the rare tree that qualifies as a veneer log that can fetch tens of thousands of dollars. The final consideration is relatively easy: what is the personal value of a memorial tree or a tree that takes you to your special place? Priceless. Steve Turner, Certified Arborist, is from Arboricultural Services in Fenton, MI.

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Alexander Farm Market & Greenhouses 6925 Whitmore Lake Rd., Whitmore Lake, MI 48189 734-741-1064 Find us on Facebook May/June hours: Daily 9-7. We’re that hidden gem savvy gardeners have been raving about. Homegrown annuals, vegetables, perennials, extraordinary hanging baskets and planters. Plus our exclusive 99¢ seed perennials. Distinctive variety of fruit trees, small fruits, flowering shrubs, climbing vines, herbs, succulents, and roses, including easy-care shrubs, and luxuriously scented David Austins.

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Downtown Home & Garden 210 S. Ashley St., Ann Arbor, MI 48104 734-662-8122 www.downtownhomeandgarden.com May/June hours: Mon-Sat 7:30-7, Sun 10-5. A century-old retailer focused on indoor and outdoor gardening supplies, outdoor veggie plant starts, annuals, perennials, and greenhouse plants. Outdoor furniture, kitchenware, sundries and hardware, K9 gear and treats, and hardy clothing for hardworking people. Drive-thru barn and on-site parking for patrons in the heart of Downtown Ann Arbor.

English Gardens Plymouth Nursery 9900 Ann Arbor Rd. W., Plymouth, MI 48170 734-453-5500 www.EnglishGardens.com May/June hours: Please visit our website. English Gardens acquired Plymouth Nursery in 2018. The store features a full-service nursery and garden center with a fullservice landscaping company. English Gardens is family-owned and locally operates six stores in Metro Detroit 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: Mon-Sat 10-5. 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!

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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, 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!

HillTop Greenhouse & Farms 8996 West Liberty, Ann Arbor, MI 48103 734-302-4233 www.hilltopgreenhousea2.com May hours: Mon-Sat 9-7, Sun 9-6. June hours: Please call. 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 9-5, Sat 9-4. 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!

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: MonSat 9-8, Sun 9-7.

Sell Farms & Greenhouses 7200 Willis Rd., Ypsilanti, MI 48197 734-484-3819 www.sellfarmsandgreenhouses.com May/June hours: Mon-Sat 9-6. Online ordering and curbside pickup available, visit our website for details. Familyowned. Great selection of high quality Annuals, Perennials & non-GMO Vegetable plants at reasonable prices. Thousands of Hanging Baskets, Combination Planters, Geraniums & Proven Winners plants. One of the best selections of Perennials, Hydrangeas & Roses in the area.

Turner’s Landscape & Garden Center 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. Full of beauty, free of pesticides—all our plants are grown pesticide-free! Buy direct from the grower. Thousands of Annuals, Perennials, Proven Winners, Wave Petunias, Fairy Garden Plants & Supplies, Vegetables, Heirloom Tomatoes, Herbs, Trees, Shrubs, and much more. New: flowering shrubs, specializing in hydrangeas. Like us on Facebook!

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

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Michigan Gardener | May 2020 | MichiganGardener.com

Julia Hofley

Bidens: Taka Tuka ‘White Yellow Center’ The Taka Tuka bidens series gets its name from its breeder, who pulled it from the book series tales of Pippi Longstocking. All four colors in the series were head-turning at the trade show last year, but ‘White Yellow Center’ particularly caught my eye, as it was an elegant version of this hard-working plant that I love using in containers. While most bidens are golden yellow like coreopsis, ‘White Yellow Center’ has large bicolored flowers with creamy yellow tips contrasting harmoniously with the golden center. These soft colors offer options in combination planters when choosing what other flowers you would add to the mix, like blues, reds, pinks or even black petunias. It has a medium-strong growth rate, making it ideal for larger potted plants or compact hanging baskets. Just make sure it gets well-drained soil. This bidens is an excellent pollen and nectar source for bees, butterflies and other beneficial insects. The other three series colors are ‘Red Glow,’ ‘Red Yellow Center,’ and ‘Orange Yellow Center.’ Height: 12-24 inches. Width: 12-18 inches. Light: Full sun.

Ball Horticultural Co.

‘Bright Red’

Impatiens: Beacon series At the Grammy Awards in January 2020, the show’s official botanical artist selected Beacon impatiens to dress the red carpet. Forty obelisks made of red and white flowers paved the way. Now that’s an entrance into our gardening world that I haven’t seen before! Back in the day, impatiens (Impatiens walleriana) was one of the most popular and well-used bedding plants in the world. That was until impatiens downy mildew (IDM) started to appear in 2012 and spread like wildfire. Michigan produced countless flats of impatiens for the U.S., so it was a hard hit on our local growers, as well as a big disappointment for gardeners and landscapers who depended on impatiens as the

perfect color ribbons in shady gardens. Last year, we wrote about a new introduction (Impatiens Imara XDR), the first impatiens that was resistant to IDM. Roughly 10 to 12 inches tall and wide, this impatiens received good scores in 2019 trial gardens and many of you may have tried them in your own gardens last year. They do not have to be treated in order to avoid IDM. This year, the Beacon series is also bringing color back to shade gardens with their new line of bedding impatiens that are a little bit fuller and taller than the Imara XDR line, according to 2019 trial garden comments. The Beacon series plants also do not need to be treated in

order to avoid IDM. When introduced at the industry-leading Cultivate’19 trade show, the Beacon series won two prestigious awards: Best New Variety Medals of Excellence for both Industry’s Choice as well as Reader’s Choice. The Beacon series offers a similar mounded upright structure, flowering time, and flower size to the well-known Super Elfin impatiens. Available in 6 colors and 2 mixes this year: ‘Bright Red,’ ‘Violet Shades,’ ‘Salmon,’ ‘Coral,’ ‘Orange,’ ‘White,’ ‘Select Mix,’ and ‘Red White Mix.’ Height: 15-20 inches. Width: 12-14 inches. Light: Shade, part sun, sun.

Ivy Geranium: Cascade ‘Appleblossom’

Julia Hofley

If you are charmed by traditional European ivy geraniums cascading out of iron window boxes or spilling from the edge of a luscious urn, you might consider adding the trailing geranium Cascade ‘Appleblossom’ to a wonderfully warm, sunny spot in your garden. I did last summer and it thrived in the heat of southern exposure, atop a stone column near the steamy asphalt driveway. The Cascade series of ivy geraniums (Pelargonium peltatum) color from top to bottom and are known for extreme heat and edema tolerance (water retention bumps on the

backs of leaves). As an ivy geranium, ‘Appleblossom’ has good branching, which translates into more flowers, creating a cascade of delicate color. I was especially drawn to the softness of the single, two-toned flower color offsetting the intensely colored petunias I paired with it, creating balance to this prominent planting. Height: 12-14 inches. Width: 20-24 inches. Light: Full sun. NEW ANNUALS continued on page 18

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Michigan Gardener | May 2020 | MichiganGardener.com

Coleus: Under the Sea ‘Red Snapper’

continued from page 16

The coleus Under the Sea series took home two AmericanHort Retailers’ Choice Awards at Cultivate‘19 in Columbus, Ohio. ‘Red Snapper’ has two-toned leaves with a smoky plum center midrib lined by an extra wide red margin with scalloped edges. The dramatic color combination, texture, and fluttering edging vaulted it to the top of my list. I learned from the breeder that the width of that red margin is unusually large, which is uncommon in the coleus world—making it a breakthrough plant and award winner. ‘Red Snapper’ is very slow to flower, which is good, because the leaves are the show. It will benefit from a pinch to make it bushier. Height: 20-30 inches. Width: 20-30 inches. Light: Part shade to sun.

Hort Couture

Under the Sea ‘Pink Tuna’ The other award-winner in the Under the Sea series, ‘Pink Tuna’ has rich pink leaves with a dark purple midrib. The pink tone in this coleus is what is noteworthy; plus the color combination is quite unusual. Height: 18-24 inches. Width: 18-24 inches. Light: Shade.

Eric Hofley / Michigan Gardener

Sunflower: Suncredible ‘Yellow’ Ball Horticultural Co.

Cuphea Honeybells I’m not surprised that this noteworthy cigar plant was bestowed the Plants of Distinction award from the University of Georgia, based on our own experience growing it on our back patio last summer from June into fall. I originally was attracted to it since I’m always looking for plants for my hummingbird highway along the back of the house, and cigar plants with their tubular flower shape are a “ringer” for that. Instead of the traditional orange color of cigar plants, Honeybells was an unusual bicolor of red to deep pinkish-red, tipped in yellow, which really grabbed my attention. I knew the hummers

would adore it, but it opened up my color palette choices for combination planters. This low-maintenance, drought-tolerant plant’s semi-trailing stems were weighed down by a non-stop profusion of blooms from start to finish. Cuphea Honeybells is an excellent, spreading flower machine that would also be ideal for hanging baskets to go the distance—much to the delight of pollinators like bees and butterflies, along with the hummingbirds. Height: 10-12 inches. Width: 14-20 inches. Light: Full sun to part sun.

If you’re looking for a plant to spend the summer with, Suncredible ‘Yellow’ sunflower (Helianthus) is a good choice. This golden glory shines its light all summer long until first frost, making it a multi-seasonal focal point in large containers, at the back of the border, along a fence, blocking something unsightly, and yes, even a sunflower hedge. Suncredible ‘Yellow’ is a winner—I mean a true nationwide, award-winning plant. From sea to shining sea in 30 botanical and university trial gardens, including Michigan State University, it won awards like “Leader of the Pack,” “Silver Medal,” “Plant of Distinction,” “Perfect Score,” “Best of the Best,” “All Season Top Performer,” and ”Students’ Choice.” Proven Winners

This bush sunflower has better branching earlier on, creating an overall fuller appearance. It produces so many flowers that deadheading isn’t required, as the plentiful new blooms distract from the spent ones. The four-inch flowers are seedless, and that sterility contributes to the longer bloom season length, right up until first frost. Suncredible ‘Yellow’ still attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies even though its seed is sterile, since it produces a ton of pollen. Patented powdery mildew resistance is another feature that sets Suncredible apart from other bush sunflowers, as they often get powdery mildew closer to season’s end when temperatures cool down in the fall. Suncredible continues to look good until the first fall freeze, lasting long enough to complement your fall plantings. Plant in average to rich soils, adding slow-release fertilizer at planting time and a second application in midsummer to keep it producing flowers longer. Height: 24-42 inches. Width: 20-32 inches. Light: Full sun. NEW ANNUALS continued on page 20

Annuals, Perennials, Vegetables, Herbs, Combination Planters, Hanging Baskets, Roses, and Much More!

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Michigan Gardener | May 2020 | MichiganGardener.com

continued from page 18

Begonia: Crown Jewel series

J. Berry Nursery (2)

’Joyful Jasper’ Crown Jewel begonias are bred for heat and humidity tolerance during Gulf Coast summers, as begonias don’t fare well when it comes to enduring high temperatures during the summer months of the Deep South. These rhizomatous begonias have been successfully tested outdoors in Texas and Alabama trial gardens. While that doesn’t matter much to Michiganders, we can suffer our own fair share of Midwestern mugginess, and it’s the toughness in these begonia genes that helped to create the Crown Jewel series. What drew me to them last summer were

‘Enduring Onyx’ the foliage colors and texture, but when I got up close, the thickness of their leaves was noteworthy as well. Even though they bloom in spring, it is the Crown Jewel foliage that steals the show. The foliage color gets even darker with cooler temperatures. Any of these compact begonias would make an eye-catching component to a combination planter or wall basket, but make sure it’s under the canopy of shade trees. They would also make a terrific hostess gift or a stylish indoor houseplant. I planted one in a mixed container up on our hillside garden

under the mighty oaks. When the sunshine dappled its way onto the foliage, the color was just dazzling, creating an unexpected focal point. It overwintered well indoors as a houseplant and I’m looking forward to doing it all over again this summer. According to Jim Berry, who produces these beauties, the individual plant names both represent their colorful leaves like precious gems as well as qualities that inspire living your life authentically. ‘Joyful Jasper’: Rich red leaves add spark to containers or windowsill gardens.

‘Tenacious Topaz’: Warm caramel and invigorating burgundy hues give a soothing glow. ‘Positively Peridot’: Burgundy-speckled chartreuse, ruffled leaves reach towards the sun. ‘Enduring Onyx’: Gorgeous deep black leaves create a grounding effect in the garden, anchoring the design and allowing all other plants to shine. Height: Up to 10-12 inches. Width: 18-24 inches. Light: Shade to partial shade (high, dappled light).

Calibrachoa: Cabaret ‘Good Night Kiss’

Ball Horticultural Co.

Appreciated by many gardeners for their self-cleaning habit and low maintenance, calibrachoas can take center stage, looking good in any patio container all summer long. Cabaret ‘Good Night Kiss’ is a flashy little flower with bright pink on the edge that transforms to dark raspberry and finishes with a bright yellow star in the center. The Cabaret series is heat tolerant and creates an abundance of bright blooms over

these full, trailing plants, which prefer a high iron fertilizer to perform at their best. ‘Good Night Kiss’ will also be a hot spot for pollinators like bees, butterflies and hummingbirds throughout the long summer season. Height: 6-10 inches. Width: 10-12 inches. Light: Full sun. NEW ANNUALS continued on page 22

American Tree 3903 Van Dyke, Almont, MI 48003 810-798-2525 www.americantreeinc.com May/June hours: Mon-Sat 8-8, Sun 9-6. Family owned & operated since 1990. American Tree offers an assortment of annuals, perennials, ornamental grasses, herbs, heirloom & organic vegetables, a large selection of roses, acres of evergreen & flowering trees & shrubs, plus hundreds of fruit trees. We have a complete landscape supply yard and a full service landscaping company.

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, mulches. We pride ourselves on offering the best service and advice. Visit meldrumbros.com for coupons and promotions.

Brohl’s Greenhouse 19780 25 Mile Rd., Macomb, MI 48042 586-781-6842 Find us on Facebook May/June hours: Mon-Sat 8:30-7, Sun 9-6. Family owned and operated since 1966. Very reasonable prices for top quality plants. The Brohl family offers annuals, baskets, combo pots, tropicals, perennials, and vegetable plants. Convenient shopping under covered greenhouses. Plus, fall mums and Christmas poinsettias, wreaths, roping, and holiday decor. Only at Brohl’s Greenhouse—Come check us out!

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.

Eckert’s Greenhouse & Perennials 34051 Ryan Rd., Sterling Heights, MI 48310 586-264-5678 www.eckertsgreenhouse.com May/June hours: Mon-Sat 8:30-8, Sun 8:30-6. From rare and unusual to preferred and popular: Annuals, Geraniums, Hanging Baskets, Flower Pouches, Patio Containers, Vegetables, Perennials, 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. Visit our Monarch Waystation and 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 May/June hours: Please visit our website. 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.

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English Gardens 22501 Kelly Rd., Eastpointe, MI 48021 586-771-4200 www.EnglishGardens.com May/June hours: Please visit our website. 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.

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.

32385 23 Mile Rd., Chesterfield Twp., MI 48047 586-725-3708 www.vanthommesgreenhouses.com May/June hours: Mon-Sat 8-8, Sun 9-5. Established in 1963. Huge variety of annuals, perennials, vegetables, and gorgeous hanging baskets. We carry Proven Winners. Big selection of organic vegetables, with over 65 varieties of tomatoes, many heirlooms. Lots of herbs too. Fall decor and hardy mums. Fairy gardens, wrought iron plant stands, fertilizers, and complete gardening supplies.

Van’s Valley Greenhouse 74865 Van Dyke, Bruce Twp, MI 48065 586-752-6002 www.vansvalley.com May/June hours: 7 days a week, 8–7 Shop in an open air market! Just south of 35 Mile. Wide variety of annuals, perennials, herbs, vegetable plants, succulents, garden art, wreaths, fairy gardens and much more! One-of-a-kind hanging baskets and porch pots. Your pot or our pot: we will customize it and fill with our beautiful flowers. Can’t wait to see you!

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

Michigan Gardener | May 2020 | MichiganGardener.com

continued from page 20

Caladium: Heart to Heart series

‘Chinook’

ible beauty firsthand. But you don’t have to go to Florida to enjoy caladiums where “…some colors sparkle and scintillate like precious stones or the plumage of the hummingbirds.” At our local garden centers this year, you will find breakthrough hybrids that are the result of years of extraordinary breeding: the new Heart to Heart series. This series has 20 new varieties that are either fancy leaf or strap leaf, with crazy-colorful foliage that is fuller and thicker, giving them a broader range of sun exposure, including full sun for some of them. Fancy leaf caladiums have heart-shaped leaves with their stem attached near the middle of the leaf and an upright habit. They are generally more shade tolerant, but some cultivars can handle quite a bit of sun too. Strap leaf caladiums have narrower, arrow-shaped leaves with their stem attached near the edge of the leaf and a mounded habit. They are generally more sun tolerant, but also grow well in shade. Caladiums are tropical plants that love the heat. The most active growth occurs during the warmest part of the season. Wait to put them outside until the air temperatures are consistently at least 60 degrees F and the ground temperature is at least 65 degrees F. Caladiums can get stunted or may even stop growing completely if they are moved outside when it is too cool. If you garden in heavy clay, growing the caladiums in containers would be a better choice, as they require good drainage. If you see holes with brown edges on the leaves between the veins (called melting), move them to a shadier spot. If the leaves look dull, try a sunnier spot. All caladiums require consistent moisture. Watering in the morning is recommended and don’t let them dry out.

‘Mesmerized’

‘Mesmerized’ – Fancy leaf. Contrasting colors in green, chartreuse and orange-red. Height: 15-20 inches. Width: 10-14 inches. Light: Shade to sun.

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‘Heart and Soul’

‘Lemon Blush’

Since late Victorian times, gardeners have favored caladiums for colorful leaf splashes in the shade. They actually were introduced to the United States in 1893 at the World’s Exposition in Chicago by a German hybridizer living in Rio de Janeiro. Yes, the same world’s fair that the Ferris wheel made its world debut and one of my all-time favorite books is based on, The Devil in the White City by Erik

Larson. That world’s fair! Today, virtually all caladium production takes place in Lake Placid, Florida where the fields in the summer are so striking, they have been compared to the tulip fields in Holland. In an effort to expand public awareness of these gorgeous plants, there is a caladium festival which draws bus tours to the production fields so visitors can witness this incred-

‘Lemon Blush’ – Fancy leaf. Rose red center and wide chartreuse margin. Height: 15-20 inches. Width: 10-14 inches. Light: Part shade to shade. ‘Chinook’ – Strap leaf. Unique salmon pink center. Height: 15-20 inches. Width: 8-10 inches. Light: Shade. ‘Heart and Soul’ – Strap leaf. White center (often flushed pink), green border, and red spots. Watering in the morning is helpful to avoid sunburn. Height: 15-20 inches. Width: 8-10 inches. Light: Sun or shade.

Ball Horticultural Co.

Petunia ‘Midnight Gold’ There is no shortage of new petunias that are introduced each spring. They are one of the more popular annuals enjoyed by gardeners, thus challenging breeders to create more interesting and improved traits. This gardener is a big petunia fan and the award-winning ‘Midnight Gold’ is literally a crowd pleaser. It won the Retailers’ Choice Award at the Cultivate’19 trade show in Columbus, and at a Colorado trial garden last summer was rated the top choice out of hundreds of plants. In a Chicago trial garden, ‘Midnight Gold’ was always surrounded by a crowd of plant paparazzi taking pictures. This petunia is noticeably different, as it has exceptional branching that produces a robust profusion of two-inch, fully double, deep crimson to black flowers outlined with a contrasting border of soft lemony-gold. It is slightly more vigorous than the Double Wave double petunias. ‘Midnight Gold’ is a plant to behold, whether in a lush hanging basket, stunning combination planter, or striking central urn in a courtyard garden. Height: 8-10 inches. Width: 20-26 inches. Light: Full sun to part sun. Editor’s note: There are more New Annuals appearing in the Michigan Gardener ENewsletter this spring. Sign up for free on our website: www.MichiganGardener.com. Julia Hofley is a plant collector, freelance garden writer, speaker, and independent sales rep (Email: julia@juliasbiglife.com).

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Michigan Gardener | May 2020 | www.MichiganGardener.com

Grow and care for peonies

ur favorite late-spring flower, the peony, has a unique place in Michigan history. Since 1927, these ostentatious, short-blooming flowers have drawn thousands of romantic couples and students seeking to unwind after exams to Ann Arbor’s historic peony garden at the Nichols Arboretum. There, visitors can be transported through the vernal kaleidoscope of color and

fragrance emanating from 350 different heirloom cultivars. Whole teams of volunteers are required to preserve, care for, and sometimes transplant those Ann Arbor peonies. Herbaceous peony flowers require toil from the gardener through the entire growing season. Like roses and dahlias, it’s a “gardener’s flower,” rewarding high levels of attention and care.

Neil and Ruth Atzinger

Peonies were first cultivated in China and have been a part of their history since the 6th century and even earlier. There, peonies are representative of honor and opulence. It might have been through careful cultivation of edible peonies that the Chinese proverb “If one does not sow, there will be no harvest” derived. continued on page 26

Peonies planted en masse create a striking show. Concurrent bloomers like baptisia, late-season tulips, and alliums make great companions.

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Peony flowers come in a dozen different forms, from single flowers to “bomb” form. Pictured above is a Japanese-form peony. Decorative stamens are the feature to note here. continued from page 24

Cultural practices Peony care begins with thoughtful cultural management—choosing or creating the right environment for your peonies. Fungal pathogens and root rot are the biggest challenges. Fungus thrives in moisture and heat. Therefore, to prevent issues such as botrytis and

powdery mildew, give your peonies excellent drainage, plant them in full sun, and avoid using too much moisture-holding mulch around stems. Peony roots must be allowed to dry out completely between watering. Deep, infrequent watering is best, but if your peonies have been trying to survive in clay soil, lifting the plants and adding soil amendments may be necessary.

Alien-looking shoots emerge in early spring. These shoots will always look healthy and vivacious, so rely on your records from the previous year to guide your fungicide program and prevention.

Treat for fungus Another Chinese proverb will guide the peony gardener: “Dig the well before you are thirsty.” In early spring, succulent, red peony sprouts emerge with spunk and vitality, giving the impression of self-reliance. Work now to set up your peonies for a successful season. Preventative fungicides are available to treat peonies that have had battles with botrytis—a

common, fatal peony disease that reveals itself in blackened flower buds that do not open and grayish, wilting stalks. These fungicides are typically applied every week until bud break for success. After peonies bloom, the work to maintain hygiene continues. Prune off infected stems and burn. Do not compost infected foliage. Spores will spread in the soil.

Support with staking Most herbaceous peonies need staking to prevent their heavy buds from weighing the plant down. Waiting until the peonies have drooped will make this task an exercise in futility. Peony hoops should be installed early enough to support peonies when the canes are no more than 12 inches tall. Alternatively, use makeshift bamboo-stake fencing connected with gardeners tape, wire, or twine. These voluptuous flowers deserve to be held erect. If you wish to avoid this extra labor, but love peony blooms, choose tree or hybrid Itoh peony varieties. These have sturdy stems or woody branches.

Eliminate competition These plants are pacifists that require a competition-free environment. Weeding in spring and early summer is key. Peony roots are tuberous and spread as far as two feet beyond aboveground shoots. Eliminate weeds and competing ornamentals within this circumference. continued on page 29 After staking peonies early in the season, the hoops or specialized peony grids are hidden by the time the plants bloom. Prevent these beauties from anticlimactically flopping during their peak.

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Ruhlig Farms & Gardens 24508 Telegraph Rd., Brownstown Twp, MI 48134 734-782-9811 www.ruhligfarmsandgardens.com Spring hours: Mon-Sat 9-8, Sun 10-6. Another 25,000 square-foot expansion! Explore nearly 100,000 sq ft of amazing indoor greenhouses. Enhance your garden’s beauty and uniqueness at our premier garden center and nursery. Enormous selection of annuals, perennials, patio containers, hanging baskets and potted plants. Friendly staff always available to assist. Make us your destination for Spring, Summer, Fall & Christmas.

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Panetta’s Landscape Supplies 20200 Goddard, Taylor, MI 48180 313-291-3880 www.panettasupply.com May/June hours: Mon-Fri 8-5, Sat 8-4, Sun 10-3. Wide variety of decorative rock and mulches. Bagged cocoa mulch. Unilock, Oaks, High Format brick pavers and wall blocks. Variety of natural stone. Try our RJ’s Garden Mix, a custom blend perfect for your garden. Visit both locations to experience our vast selection of perennials, roses, shrubs, trees. Now featuring Online Ordering for deliveries and curbside pickup!

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Westcroft Gardens & Farm 21803 West River Rd., Grosse Ile, MI 48138 734-676-2444 www.westcroftgardens.com May/June hours: Mon-Fri 8-7, Sat 9-6, Sun 10-5. Michigan’s oldest farm still owned & operated by the same family, established 1776. Specializing in our own azalea & rhododendron hybrids that grow well in Michigan. Also trees, shrubs, perennials, annuals, herbs & vegetables. Our Greenleaf Compound acidifies & improves your soil. Stroll our Heritage Gardens or rent them for your next special event.

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!

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

Advertiser Index Aguafina Gardens International..............7 Alexander’s Farm Mkt/Greenhses......19 Assoc. of Professional Gardeners.........41 Auburn Oaks Gard Ctr..............................40 Beauchamp’s/The Pond Place.................5 Blossoms...........................................................41 Bogie Lake Greenhouses...........................19 Campbell’s Greenhouses.........................25

Contender’s Tree/Lawn Specialists.......... Page 3 Country Oaks Landscape Supp..............31 Dale’s Landscaping Supp..........................19 Davey Tree......................................................... 9 Destinations: Ann Arbor...........................14 Destinations: Downriver...........................27 Destinations: I-96........................................33 Destinations: Macomb...............................21 Eckert’s Greenhouse...................................19

Espoma..............................................................15 Everlastings in the Wildwood..................12 Fraleigh’s Landscape Nursery................25 The Garden Mill.............................................. 9 Garden Rhythms............................................ 6 A Garden Space.............................................41 Gordon’s Lawn Core Aeration............... 10 Grass Magic....................................................25 Hessell’s Greenhouses...............................13 Hidden Lake Gardens..................................17

Lake Orion Lawn Ornaments..................31 Meier Flowerland..........................................17 Merritt Home Design.................................35 Michigan Nursery/Landscp Assoc......15 Milarch Nursery.............................................12 Organimax......................................................23 The Original Budget Tree Service..........41 Orion Stone Depot.......................................23 Osmocote.......................Inside Front Cover Piechnik’s Gard Ctr........................................ 6

Piechnik’s Greenhse....................................17 Plantskydd........................................................13 Poison Ivy Control of Michigan..............23 Proven Winners Color Choice.................11 Schuman Landscape Lighting.................31 Sell Farms & Greenhouses........................17 Specialty Growers.........................................31 State Crushing...............................................35 Steinkopf Nursery.......................................... 8 Stone Cottage Gardens..............................41

Suburban Landscape Supply..................37 Sunny Fields Botanical Park...................... 6 Telly’s Greenhouse........................................ 4 Turner’s Landscp & Gard Ctr..................37 Uncle Luke’s Feed Store............................35 Van Atta’s Greenhouse.............................23 Warmbier Farms..........................................25 The Weed Lady............................................. 10 Westcroft Gardens......................................13 Zoner’s Greenhouse....................................17

Michigan Gardener | May 2020 | www.MichiganGardener.com

Use the following steps to minimize damage while transplanting peonies: 1

Only transplant peonies in the fall: mid to late September is preferred. Peonies put much energy into growth during the spring and may not survive transplanting. To give peonies the greatest chance of recovery, take the time to find and expose tubers during the digging process.

Carefully lift the entire root mass of your peony. Loosen the soil around the entire plant before attempting to pry with a spade. Peonies will survive having their tuberous roots chopped or broken, but effort should be taken to save as many roots as possible. Shake off soil as you lift to minimize the weight you need to lift. Use a flat-ended spade; the pointed end of a shovel may damage the plant.

Set the root mass aside and wash with water. This massive peony is suffocating itself and will appreciate being divided. Cleaning off soil will expose rotten tubers that can be removed. Remove any tubers that are soft or soggy.

MichiganGardener.com | May 2020 | Michigan Gardener

Take care throughout the process to protect the small eyes at the base of the current year’s stems (they are white in this photo, but are usually pinkish-red). These are buds for next year’s canes and flowers; if they are knocked off, the plant will not grow. Keep at least one eye per division; more than five for a larger transplanted peony.

With a sharp spade (or a knife for more exact cuts), divide your peony. This large clump has just been cut in half by a sharp spade. continued from page 26

Transplanting According to Medieval lore, moving a peony would disturb mischievous fairies that hide in peony flowers, bringing misfortune upon the gardener. Lore has some foundation

in truth: transplanting will typically result in the misfortune of a lack of blooms for the next year or two. With patience, peonies will recover from transplant shock and reestablish themselves. You will have a rejuvenated peony with more blooms than before.

Replant your peony by digging a shallow hole that is wide enough to fit the roots from your divided peony. Take care not to plant too deep. The eyes should be no more than two inches under the top of the soil. Mix compost into your planting medium as fertilizer and to help loosen heavy soil. Build up your soil higher above the rest of the surrounding ground if your soil is heavy. This will help with drainage.

Ruth Atzinger studied horticulture at MSU and has gardened professionally since 2001, including work at Frederik Meijer Gardens and Gaylord Opryland. After studying theology and exploring the art and gardens of Italy, Neil Atzinger learned gardening as

Ruth’s understudy. As Atzinger Gardens (renamed from Fourth & Walnut), the pair create and tend gardens around Ann Arbor and Plymouth. Visit AtzingerGardens.com or call 734-272-7321 for monthly maintenance or new garden design and installation.

Michigan Gardener | May 2020 | MichiganGardener.com

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Fruit Punch ‘Cherry Vanilla’

ianthus is a large genus of over 300 species which can vary from diminutive alpine plants only a few inches in height to tall, stately cut-flower carnations that grow up to three feet high. Most, but not all, species are fragrant, known for their spicy clove-like scent. They come in annual, biennial and perennial forms. Because the perennial types are most popular with gardeners, this article will focus on those.

A brief history Because many dianthus flowers are indeed pink, it would be logical to think that the color is the source of this genus’s common name: “pink.” But it is likely that the color pink was

actually named for this flower, and not the other way around! The verb “to pink” dates back to the 14th century, meaning “to decorate with a perforated pattern”; the petals of dianthus flowers are nearly always fringed or notched. The genus name dates even further back, to the Greek botanist Theophrastus Karen who gave this group of plants the Bovio name Dianthus or “flower of the gods.” Nearly all species of the genus Dianthus originate in Europe, with a few from Asia and only one species native to North America. Seeds and plants of dianthus were brought

by early colonists to this country because of their long use as garden plants in Europe. In particular, the biennial sweet William (D. barbatus) and the carnation (D. caryophyllus) have been used ornamentally for thousands of years. They are still popular cut flowers today, but most of the garden varieties found in nurseries nowadays are derived from other species, primarily D. plumarius, D. gratianopolitanus, and D. alpinus.

Culture and garden use of dianthus All garden pinks—whether they are

straight species or hybrid cultivars—are sunloving plants that do best in direct light and very well-drained soil. In fact, too little sun and damp, poorly drained soils are the most frequent causes of failure with this genus. Many species hail from mountainous regions where they thrive in lean, calcareous soils or sandy, gravelly sites. These cultural preferences have been passed on to their hybrids; most varieties of dianthus are tolerant of drought and perform best in soils that are neutral to slightly alkaline. They prefer cool nights and may falter in excessively hot and humid climates. continued on page 32

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continued from page 30

Ball Horticultural Co.

Devon Cottage ‘Rosy Cheeks’

In most years, dianthus begin blooming in Michigan during late May, with peak flowering in June. The hot days and warm nights of midsummer signal a period of semi-dormancy for dianthus. They will stop growing and blooming, only to resume growth and send up new flowering stems when night temperatures cool down again in August and September. Plant breeders are working to lessen this response to temperature, with the goal of developing everblooming varieties. Although advances are being made, it’s best to think of garden pinks as cool-season perennials with concentrated flowering impact in late spring and early autumn. Many types of dianthus have blue-green to silver-gray, needle-like foliage that is decorative in its own right. This fine-textured foliage provides garden interest even when the plants are out of bloom. The blue to silver foliage color is enhanced by full sun and lean soil, so plant dianthus with other drought-tolerant, full-sun plants like yarrow, salvia, sea holly, sedum, dwarf bearded irises, lavender, catmint, euphorbia, baby’s breath, and lamb’s ear. Because most garden pinks are low-growing plants in the 6- to 15-inch height range, they are good candidates for the front of the border, for rock gardens, and as groundcovers and edging plants, to assure they won’t become swamped by larger growers. Garden pinks are largely unbothered by insects or diseases. A few minor insect prob-

Ball Horticultural Co.

‘Firewitch’

lems can occur, with thrips and mites possibly appearing during hot weather. A few aphids may appear on flowering stems during wet springs, but are easily controlled with common garden sprays, or even a sharp stream of water to dislodge them. They usually disappear on their own, unless the plants are seriously stressed. A leafspot fungus can sometimes occur during periods of high rainfall and humidity. It appears as tan spots bordered with purple. Plants can be sheared back, haircut style, if the foliage becomes unattractive. This works especially well if done after flowering, so as not to disrupt the peak flowering season. Root and crown rots are the most serious problems afflicting dianthus but should not become an issue if given full sun and well-drained soil.

Recommended varieties Because so many kinds of dianthus have been used in gardens for centuries, the genus provides a great depth of choices. Today’s gardener can select types ranging from true species grown from seed, to Victorian-era classics, to mid/late 20th century hybrids that still compare well to the newest cultivars introduced during the past few years. Additionally, many breeders have introduced “series” of cultivars, both in Europe (particularly England) and in different regions of the U.S., resulting in hundreds of new cultivars becoming available, in many different colors and flower forms. continued on page 34

www.PerennialResource.com

Paint the Town ‘Magenta’

Christians 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.

Meier Flowerland 8087 W. Grand River, Brighton, MI 48114 810-229-9430 www.meierflowerland.com May/June hours: Mon-Sat 8-8, Sun 8-6 Where you’re only limited by your imagination! We grow over 10,000 sun/shade hanging baskets. Plus annuals, geraniums, patio and deck pots for instant color, shrubs, roses, yard décor, gazing globes, stepping stones, more. Vegetables and herbs, including heirloom varieties. Wednesdays are Senior Day: 15% off live plants. Since 1954.

Milarch Nursery 28500 Haas Rd., New Hudson, MI 48165 248-437-2094 www.milarchnursery.com Hours – Thru Sat, June 13: Mon-Fri 8-5:30, Sat 8-3; Starting Mon, June 15: 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.

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 9-3, Sun 10-2. Established in 2001, The Pond Place is one of the largest retailers and wholesalers of pond supplies in Michigan. Our knowledgeable staff will help with your pond supply, koi, goldfish and water plant needs. We build ponds and seawalls too. Visit www.pondplace.com for online shopping. We now sell and deliver mulch, topsoil and select stone.

Specialty Growers 4330 Golf Club Rd., Howell MI 48843 517-546-7742 www.specialtygrowers.net May/June hours: Mon-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 May hours: Daily 9-6. June hours: Please call to confirm. 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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continued from page 32 Wild dianthus species have five-petaled flowers with pinked edges, in varying shades of pink and rose, and occasionally white and red. Hybrids may be single-flowered, semi- to full double-flowered, with or without different-colored eyezones. Based on parentage, some varieties show even greater range of color, including coral and near-purple. One species (D. knappii) is an outlier, with yellow flowers. Double forms have long been popular, with many garden varieties resembling miniature carnations on short stems. Also based on parentage, varieties may or may not be fragrant, but in most cases the blue-green and silvery-gray foliage types can be counted on for fragrance. Knowing the propensity for garden pinks to weaken and decline in hot climates, much effort has gone into the development of heattolerant varieties. An older, but still outstanding cultivar known to thrive in humid climates is ‘Bath’s Pink,’ a ground-covering, blue-green variety with fringed, light pink, single flowers and a magnificent fragrance. A large patch of it can usually be smelled from a distance before it comes into view! This variety was highly touted as a good choice for the South, but it fares well in nearly all areas of the country. It has a lax, spreading habit, so it is less tidy than some of the newer varieties, Ball Horticultural Co.

Scent First ‘Coral Reef’

continued on page 36

Wikimedia Commons / Ltshears

‘Bath’s Pink’

Uncle Luke’s

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Uncle Luke’s Feed Store

6691 Livernois, Troy (1/4 Mile S. of South Blvd.) 248-879-9147 • www.unclelukes.com Mon-Fri 9-6:30 • Sat 8-6 • Sun 9-5

Visit our 2nd location:

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A Perennial Farm like no other! Set in a Botanical Garden 25 years in the making. Grown by people that know and love their plants.

Classified Ads NEED A HAND? Call “The little gardener that could.” 15 yrs experience at Botanical Gardens. FREE Estimates. Pat: 586-2149852, agardenspace.com. MICHIGAN GARDENER E-NEWSLETTER - Sign up for our free e-newsletter! We send out a few each year, and there are contests to win prizes as well. (No spam, and we do not share your e-mail.) Go to www. MichiganGardener.com and simply enter your e-mail address. DON’T LOOK. Oops, you looked. And so will 70,000 potential customers. Advertise in Michigan Gardener. Call 248-594-5563 or e-mail publisher@MichiganGardener.com.

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* Rare and Unusual Perennials * Hostas - 80 types * Daylilies - 150 types * Annuals * Large sizes

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Michigan Gardener | May 2020 | MichiganGardener.com

www.PerennialResource.com

Pretty Poppers ‘Appleblossom Burst’ continued from page 34

Ball Horticultural Co.

‘Neon Star’

but it can’t be beat for longevity and adaptability to many conditions. ‘Firewitch,’ another blue foliage variety, was selected as Perennial Plant of the Year in 2006 and remains a top favorite, although there are many new rivals to it, including the even brighter, hot pink variety ‘Neon Star.’ Both have single magenta-pink flowers that are fragrant. See the accompanying chart for a few of the newest dianthus series available in the marketplace. Each series consists of many different cultivars in a variety of colors.

Although significant improvements have been made with recent breeding advances (heat tolerance, neater growth habit, number of flowers produced, and length of flowering season), many gardeners choose to honor the past by planting varieties that our forebears enjoyed in their gardens. Fortunately, many antique varieties remain in commerce. To keep history alive in your own garden, seek out heirlooms like ‘Dad’s Favorite,’ Inchmery,’ ‘Mrs. Sinkins,’ and ‘Sops in Wine.’ Karen Bovio is the owner of Specialty Growers in Howell, MI.

Newer dianthus series

Ball Horticultural Co.

Mountain Frost ‘Pink Twinkle’

Ball Horticultural Co.

Everlast ‘Lilac Eye’

Series name

Flower style

Growth habit

Key features

Constant Beauty Devon Cottage Everlast Fruit Punch Mountain Frost Paint the Town Pretty Poppers Scent First

Semi to full double Double Semi to full double Semi to full double Single with eye Single Semi to full double Double

Mound, 6-10” Taller, 14-18” Mound, 8-12” Mound, 8-10” Mound, 6-10” Groundcover, 6” Dwarf, wide mound Mound, 8-11”

Better bloom in hot weather Cottage garden, carnation-like Early, long bloom, fragrant Double, fragrant Tolerant of rain and wetness Long bloom, fragrant Neat habit, fragrant Fragrant, short cut flower

www.MichiganGardener.com | May 2020 | Michigan Gardener

Look for Allen Park • Ace Hardware Almont H American Tree • Brohl’s Flower Garden Ann Arbor H Abbott’s Landscp Nurs • Ace Barnes Hardware (Washtenaw Ave) • Ace Barnes Hardware (West Stadium) • Dixboro General Store H Downtown Home & Gard H HillTop Greenhse & Farms H Lodi Farms H Matthaei Botanical Gard H Produce Station H Turner’s Greenhse/ Gard Ctr • Weingartz • Wild Birds Unltd Armada • Pond Guy Auburn H Warmbier Farms Auburn Hills • Ace Hardware • Drake’s Landscp & Nurs H Haley Stone H State Crushing Belleville H Banotai Greenhse • Gardeners Choice H Pinter Flowerland H Zywicki Greenhse Berkley • Garden Central Beverly Hills • Ace Hardware Birmingham H Blossoms Brighton • Ace Hardware • Brighton Stone & Fireplace • Grasshopper Gdns • Leppek Nurs H Meier Flowerland Brownstown Twp • Raupp Bros Landscp Supp H Ruhlig Farms & Gard Bruce Twp H Van’s Valley Greenhse Burton H Country Oaks Landscp Supp Canton • Canton Floral Gardens • Schmidt’s Roadside • Wild Birds Unltd Chelsea • Ace Hardware H Garden Mill • Potting Shed Chesterfield H Van Thomme’s Greenhses Clarkston • Ace Hardware (Dixie Hwy) • Ace Hardware (Sashabaw) H Country Oaks Landscp Supp • Gateway • Lowrie’s Landscp • Weingartz Clawson • Ace Hardware • Billings Lawn Equip

at these fine locations: Clinton Twp H English Gardens • Michigan Koi • MSU ExtensionMacomb Cty • Tropical Treasures Clio H Piechnik’s Greenhse Commerce Twp H Zoner’s Greenhse Davison H Wojo’s Garden Splendors Dearborn • Ace Hardware • Fairlane Gard Dearborn Hts H English Gardens Detroit • Ace Hardware • Detroit Gard Ctr Dexter • Bloom! Gard Ctr • Dexter Mill • Earth Art H Fraleigh’s Nurs Eastpointe • DeRonne True Value Hardware • Drew’s Garden H English Gardens Farmington • Alexander True Value Hardware Farmington Hills • Ace Hardware • Saxton’s Flower Ctr H Steinkopf Nurs • Weingartz Fenton • Gerych’s H Heavenly Scent Herb Farm Ferndale • Casual Modes Home & Gard Flushing H Flushing Lawn & Gard Ctr Fostoria H The Iron Barn Fowlerville • Green-Up Gard Ctr Gladwin H Stone Cottage Gardens Grand Blanc H Weed Lady Grand Rapids • Meijer Gardens Grass Lake H Designs by Judy Grosse Ile • Grosse Ile Pet & Gard Ctr H Westcroft Gard & Farm Grosse Pointe • Allemon’s Landscp Ctr • Otherworld GP Grosse Pointe Shores • Edsel & Eleanor Ford House Grosse Pointe Woods • Wild Birds Unltd Hadley • Le Fleur Décor Haslett H Van Atta’s Greenhse Highland • Ace Hardware • Colasanti’s Produce & Plants • Five Star Ace Hardware • Fragments H Rock Bottom Stone Supp • Thornton Nurs

Howell H Specialty Growers H Superior Landscp Supp • Wilczewski Greenhses Imlay City • Earthly Arts Keego Harbor • Creative Brick Paving Lake Orion • Ace Hardware • Fogler’s Greenhse H Lake Orion Lawn Ornaments H Orion Stone Depot Livonia • Ace Hardware (5 Mi/Middlebelt) • Ace Hardware (6 Mi/Newburgh) • Bushel Mart • George’s Livonia Gard • GrowGeneration • Valley Nurs • Weingartz Macomb • Altermatt’s Greenhse • Boyka’s Greenhse H Brohl’s Greenhouse H Elya’s Village Gard • Joe Randazzo’s H Landscape Source • Olejnik Farms • Wild Birds Unltd Midland • Dow Gardens Milford • Ace Hardware H Beauchamp Landscp Supp • Peter’s True Value Hardware H Pond Place Monroe • Flower Market New Baltimore H Meldrum Bros Nurs New Boston H Grass Roots Pond & Gard • Mums the Word New Hudson • Fletcher & Rickard Landscp Supp H Milarch Nurs North Branch H Campbell’s Greenhses H Oldani Landscp Nurs Northville • Begonia Bros • Gardenviews at Home Novi • Ace Hardware • Glenda’s Gard Ctr • Tollgate Education Ctr - MSU • Wild Birds Unltd Oak Park • Ace Hardware • Four Seasons Gard Ctr Oakland H Piechnik’s Gard Ctr Ortonville H Wojo’s Greenhse Owosso H Everlastings in the Wildwood Oxford • Ace Hardware • Dafoe’s Feed & Seed Plymouth H English Gardens Plymouth Nurs • Graye’s Greenhse

• Plymouth Rock & Supp H Rock Shoppe • Sideways • Sparr’s Greenhse Pontiac • Goldner Walsh Gard/Home • MSU ExtensionOakland Cty Ray • Heritage Oaks Redford H Pinter Flowerland • Seven Mi Gard Ctr Rochester • Allstate Home Leisure • Fogler’s Greenhse • Sherwood Forest Gard Ctr Rochester Hills • Ace Hardware H Auburn Oaks Gard Ctr H Haley Stone • Wild Birds Unltd Romeo • Cold Frame Farm Romulus • Kurtzhal’s Farms • Rush Gard Ctr • Schwartz’s Greenhse Roseville H Dale’s Landscp Supp • Flower Barn Nurs Sea World Royal Oak • Ace Hardware H English Gardens • Frentz & Sons Hardware • Manus Power Mowers • Wild Birds Unltd Saginaw • Abele Greenhse & Gard Ctr Salem Twp H Willow Greenhse Saline H Clink Landscp & Nurs • Junga’s Ace Hardware • KBK Gard Ctr • Saline Flowerland Shelby Twp • Ace Hardware • Diegel’s Greenhse H Hessell’s Greenhses • Maeder Plant Farm • PJ Hebert H Telly’s Greenhse South Lyon • Ace Hardware • Bader & Sons • Mike’s Garden • Stone Depot Landscp Supp Southfield • 3 DDD’s Stand • Eagle Landscp & Supp • Lavin’s Flower Land • Main’s Landscp Supp St Clair Shores • Ace Hardware (Harper/13 Mi) • Cultivation Station • DeRonne True Value Hardware • Greenhouse Growers H Hall’s Nurs • Soulliere Gard Ctr Sterling Heights • Sterling Hts Nature Ctr

Sterling Hts • Decor Statuette H Eckert’s Greenhse • Prime Landscp Supp Stockbridge • Gee Farms Superior Twp • Lucas Nurs Sylvan Lake H AguaFina Gardens Interntl H Detroit Garden Works Taylor • Ace Hardware • D&L Garden Ctr • Massab Acres Greenhse H Panetta’s Landscp Supp Trenton • Ace Hardware • Carefree Lawn Ctr • Keck Hardware Troy • Home & Gard Shop H Telly’s Greenhse H Uncle Luke’s Feed Store Utica • Stonescape Supp • Weingartz Warren • Ace Hardware • Beste’s Lawn & Patio • Greco’s Nurs • Kutchey Family Mkt Washington • Big Red Orchard • Landscape Direct • Rocks ‘n’ Roots Waterford • Ace Hardware • Breen’s Landscp Supp • Jacobsen’s Flowers H Merritt Home Design West Bloomfield • ACE Hardware H English Gardens • Whole Foods Westland • Ace Hardware H Barsons Greenhses • Bushel Stop • Joe Randazzo’s Nurs • Merlino’s Bushel Ctr • Panetta’s Landscp Supp White Lake H Bogie Lake Greenhse H Mulligan’s Gard Ctr • Sunshine Plants Whitmore Lake H Alexander’s Greenhses • Green Oak Gard Williamston H Christians Greenhse Wixom • Angelo’s Landscp Supp Ypsilanti • Coleman’s Farm Mkt H Margolis Nurs • Materials Unlimited • Michigan Greenscape Supp • Schmidt’s Antiques H Sell Farms & Greenhse

Creating beautiful outdoor spaces for over 50 years

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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

Auburn

Saginaw North Branch Clio

Lapeer

Davison

Imlay City

Flushing

Owosso

Lennon

Burton

Port Huron

Dryden

Grand Blanc

Flint

Emmett

Hadley Almont

Bancroft

Grand Rapids

Bruce Twp. Fenton

Oxford

Ortonville

Lansing

East Lansing

Oakland

Clarkston Hartland

Williamston

White Lake

Howell

Mason

Stockbridge

Jackson

White Lake Waterford

Pontiac

Dexter

Ann Arbor

Grass Lake

Superior Twp

Detroit Westland

Canton

DearbornDearborn Heights

Ypsilanti

Taylor Belleville

Manchester

Romulus

Saline New Boston Tipton

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please contact us for info: publisher@ MichiganGardener.com 248-594-5563

H 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 210 S Ashley St, MI 48104 734-662-8122 www.downtownhomeandgarden.com

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 HillTop Greenhse/Farms H Lodi Farms H The Produce Station

H State Crushing

H Turner’s Greenhse & Garden Ctr 4431 South Wagner Rd, MI 48103 734-663-7600 www.turnersannarbor.com

bay city

Wild Birds Unltd

bancroft Grand Oak Herb Farm H Begick Nursery & Garden Ctr 5993 Westside Saginaw Rd, MI 48706 989-684-4210 www.begicknursery.com

belleville

brownstown twp

H Banotai Greenhse Gardeners Choice H Pinter Flowerland H Zywicki Greenhse

Bruce’s Pond Shop Raupp Brothers Gard Ctr H Ruhlig Farms & Gard

berkley Garden Central

birmingham H Blossoms

bruce twp H Van’s Valley Greenhse 74865 Van Dyke Rd, MI 48065 586-752-6002 www.vansvalley.com

brighton

burton

Bordine’s Brighton Stone Leppek Nurs

H Country Oaks Landscp Supp

H Meier Flowerland 8087 W. Grand River, MI 48114 810-229-9430 www.meierflowerland.com

H Garden Mill 110 S. Main St, MI 48118 734-475-3539 www.thegardenmill.com

chesterfield H Van Thomme’s Greenhses

clarkston Bordine’s H Country Oaks Landscp Supp Lowrie’s Landscp

Monroe La Salle

auburn

chelsea

The Potting Shed

Brownstown Trenton Twp. Grosse Ile Flat Rock

Tecumseh Ottawa Lake

almont

Ray

Rochester

Plymouth Chelsea

Washington

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

Fowlerville

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H Walker Farms & Greenhouse 5253 E. Atherton Rd, MI 48519 810-743-0260 www.walkersfarm.com

canton Canton Floral Gardens Schmidt’s Roadside Wild Birds Unltd

clinton twp H English Gardens 44850 Garfield Rd, MI 48038 586-286-6100 www.englishgardens.com Michigan Koi Tropical Treasures

clio H Piechnik’s Greenhouse 13172 McCumsey Rd, MI 48420 810-686-9211 www.cliogreenhouse.com

columbus Haack’s Farm Greenhses

commerce twp H Zoner’s Greenhse 2355 E. Commerce Rd, MI 48382 248-363-6742 www.zonersgreenhouse.com

MichiganGardener.com | May 2020 | Michigan Gardener

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 Eastern Market

dexter Bloom! Gard Ctr Dexter Mill H Fraleighs Landscape Nursery 8600 Jackson Rd, MI 48130 734-426-5067 www.fraleighs.com

eastpointe Drew’s Garden H English Gardens 22501 Kelly Rd, MI 48021 586-771-4200 www.englishgardens.com

farmington hills Angelo’s Landscp Supp Farmer John’s Greenhse 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

hartland

new hudson

Deneweth’s Garden Ctr

H Milarch Nurs 28500 Haas Rd, MI 48165 248-437-2094 www.milarchnursery.com

haslett H Christian’s Greenhse H Van Atta’s Greenhse

highland Colasanti’s Produce/Plant Fragments Highland Garden Ctr Rock Bottom Landscp Supp Thornton Nurs

howell Penrose Nurs H Specialty Growers 4330 Golf Club Rd, MI 48843 517-546-7742 www.specialtygrowers.net H Superior Landscape Supplies 4805 Musson Rd, MI 48855 517-548-2068 Find us on Facebook Wilczewski Greenhses

imlay city Earthly Arts Greenhse Schutz’s Tree Farm Super & Sons Nurs

jackson Hobbit Greenhouses

lake orion H Lake Orion Lawn Orn H Orion Stone Depot 4888 Joslyn Rd., MI 48359 248-391-2490 www.orionstone.com

lansing Lansing Gardens

lapeer

flat rock

H The Iron Barn

Masserant’s Feed/Grain

lasalle

flushing

Fowler’s Gift Shop

H Flushing Lawn & Garden Ctr 114 Terrace St, MI 48433 810-659-6241 www.unclelukes.com

lennon

gladwin H Stone Cottage Gardens 3740 West Willford Rd, MI 48624 989-426-2919 www.stonecottagegardens.com

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

grosse ile H Westcroft Gardens & Farm 21803 West River Rd, MI 48138 734-676-2444 www.westcroftgardens.com

grosse pointe Allemon’s Landscp Ctr

grosse pointe woods Wild Birds Unltd

hadley Le Fleur Décor

Stone Case Inc.

livonia Bushel Mart George’s Livonia Gardens GrowGeneration Valley Nurs

macomb Altermatt Greenhses Boyka’s Greenhse H Brohl’s Greenhse Deneweth’s Garden Ctr H Elya’s Village Gardens H Landscape Source Joe Randazzo’s Nurs Olejnik Farms Wiegand’s Nursery Wild Birds Unltd

manchester McLennan Nurs

mason Wildtype Nurs

milford Beauchamp Landscp Supp Milford Gardens H The Pond Place

monroe

Fletcher & Rickard Landscp Supp

north branch H Campbell’s Greenhouses 4077 Burnside Rd, MI 48461 810-688-3587 www.campbellsgreenhouses.com H Oldani Landscape Nurseries 2666 Tozer Rd, MI 48461 810-688-2363 www.oldanilandscapenurseries.com

northville Begonia Brothers Gardenviews at Home H Willow Greenhouse 7839 Curtis Rd, MI 48168 248-437-7219 www.willowgreenhouse.com

novi Glenda’s Gard Ctr Wild Birds Unltd

oak park Four Seasons Gard Ctr

oakland twp H Piechnik’s Garden Ctr 1095 N. Rochester Rd, MI 48363 586-336-7200 www.cliogreenhouse.com

ortonville H Wojo’s Greenhse 2570 Oakwood Rd, MI 48462 248-627-6498 www.wojos.com

rochester hills H Auburn Oaks Garden Ctr 3820 West Auburn Rd, MI 48309 248-852-2310 www.auburnoaksnursery.com Bordine’s H Haley Stone 3975 S. Rochester Rd, MI 48307 248-852-5511 www.haleystone.net Wild Birds Unltd

romulus Block’s Stand/Greenhse Kurtzhals’ Farms Rush Gard Ctr Schwartz’s Greenhouse

roseville H Dale’s Landscaping Supply 16720 E 13 Mile Rd, MI 48066 586-778-1919 www.daleslandscaping.com Flower Barn Nurs Sea World

royal oak H English Gardens 4901 Coolidge Hwy, MI 48073 248-280-9500 www.englishgardens.com Wild Birds Unltd

saginaw Abele Greenhouse & Garden Ctr

saline H Clink Landscaping & Nursery 9403 W. Michigan Ave, MI 48176 734-495-3779 www.clinklandscaping.com

ottawa lake

KBK Gard Ctr Saline Flowerland

H Beauchamp Landscp Supp

shelby twp

owosso

Diegel Greenhses H Hessell’s Greenhouse Maeder Plant Farm

H Everlastings in Wildwood Crooked Tree Nurs Sunburst Gardens

oxford Dafoe’s Feed & Seed

plymouth H English Gardens Plymouth Nurs 9900 Ann Arbor Rd W, MI 48170 734-453-5500 www.englishgardens.com Graye’s Greenhse Plymouth Rock & Supp H Rock Shoppe Sparr’s Greenhse

pontiac Goldner Walsh Gard/Home

ray Heritage Oaks

redford H Pinter Flowerland Seven Mi Gard Ctr

H Telly’s Greenhouse 4343 24 Mile, MI 48316 248-659-8555 www.tellys.com

south lyon Mike’s Garden Stone Depot Landscp Supp

southfield 3 DDD’s Stand Eagle Landscp/Supp Lavin’s Flower Land Main’s Landscp Supp

st clair shores Greenhouse Growers Hall’s Nurs Soulliere Gard Ctr

sterling heights Decor Statuette

H Detroit Garden Works 1794 Pontiac Dr, MI 48320 248-335-8089 www.detroitgardenworks.com

taylor D&L Garden Ctr Massab Acres Greenhse H Panetta’s Landscp Supp 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

Coleman’s Farm Mkt 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

utica

clinton twp

Stonescape Supp

walled lake H Suburban Landscp Supp

warren Beste’s Lawn/Patio Supp Kutchey Family Mkt

washington

Leila Arboretum

bloomfield hills H Cranbrook Gardens Tomlinson Arboretum

dearborn Arjay Miller Arboretum @ Ford World HQ Henry Ford Estate

detroit Anna S Whitcomb Conservtry, Belle Isle Lafayette Greens

Landscp Direct Rocks ‘n’ Roots

dryden

waterford

east lansing

Breen’s Landscp Supp H Merritt Home Design 5940 Cooley Lake Rd., MI 48327 248-681-7955 www.merritthomedesigns.com

west bloomfield H English Gardens 6370 Orchard Lake Rd, MI 48322 248-851-7506 www.englishgardens.com

westland H Barson’s Greenhse 6414 North Merriman Rd, MI 48185 734-421-5959 www.barsons.com

Seven Ponds Nature Ctr H MSU Horticulture 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 Estate

grand rapids Frederik Meijer Gardens

grosse pointe shores Edsel & Eleanor Ford Hse

lansing Cooley Gardens

Bushel Stop Joe Randazzo’s Nurs Merlino’s Bushel Ctr Panetta’s Landscp

midland

white lake

Tollgate Education Ctr

H Bogie Lake Greenhouses 1525 Bogie Lake Rd, MI 48383 248-887-5101 www.bogielakegreenhouses.com

stockbridge

Sunshine Plants

Lucas Nurs

ypsilanti

battle creek

Prime Landscp Supp Gee Farms

Angelo’s Landscp Supp Milford Tree Farm

H Uncle Luke’s Feed Store 6691 Livernois Rd, MI 48098 248-879-9147 www.unclelukes.com

rochester Fogler’s Greenhse Sherwood Forest Gard Ctr

wixom

tecumseh

Jusko’s Greenhse

new baltimore

H Grass Roots Pond & Gard Mums the Word

H Christians Greenhse

H Mulligan’s Landscp & Gard Ctr 8215 Elizabeth Lake Rd, MI 48386 248-698-4741 www.mulliganlandscaping.com

richmond

superior twp

new boston

williamston

H AguaFina Gardens International 2629 Orchard Lake Rd, MI 48320 248-738-0500 www.aguafina.com

H Eckert’s Greenhouse 34051 Ryan Rd, MI 48310 586-264-5678 www.eckertsgreenhouse.com

The Flower Market H Meldrum Bros Nurs

sylvan lake

whitmore lake H Alexander Farm Mkt & Greenhouses 6925 Whitmore Lake Rd, MI 48189 734-741-1064 Find us on Facebook Green Oak Gard

Dahlia Hill Dow Gardens

novi rochester Meadow Brook Hall & Gardens

taylor Taylor Conservatory & Botanical Gard

tipton H Hidden Lake Gardens 6214 Monroe Rd (M-50), MI 49287 517-431-2060 www.hiddenlakegardens.msu.edu

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**CANCELLED** Clarkston Perennial Plant Exchange Sat, Jun 6, **CANCELLED (Coronavirus)** 8:30am, Clarkston. By Clarkston Farm & Garden Club at Clarkston Village Parking Lot. Rain/shine. Pot & identify your plants. Labels for identification: www.clarkstongardenclub.org; 810-406-9376. Harrison Township Trunk Plant Exchange Sat, Jun 6, 12-2pm, Harrison Township. By Harrison Twp Beautification Comm. at Tucker Park parking lot. Bare root & labeled plants. Rain/shine. Master Gardeners on hand. 586-242-3868. **CANCELLED** Satsuki Azalea Weekend Sat, Jun 6, **CANCELLED (Coronavirus)** Ann Arbor. At Matthaei Botanical Gardens. $100-$300. Seminar, exhibition & workshops available. www.mbgna.umich.edu. **CANCELLED** Garden Geocache Event Sat, Jun 6, **CANCELLED (Coronavirus)** 10am-1pm, East Lansing. At MSU. FREE. Bring your picnic lunch, enjoy a day of caching in the gardens. www.canr.msu.edu.

NOTICE: Contact event organizer to verify event is still scheduled. Field Trip - Farmington Garden Club Mon, Jun 8, Noon, Pontiac. By Farmington Garden Club at Goldner Walsh. Info: Maureen Dinverno, vitaminsea55@gmail.com. Smart Gardening from a Commercial Greenhouse Point of View Tue, Jun 9, 6:30pm, Bloomfield Hills. By Master Gardener Society of Oakland County at Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church. $5. chase8219@gmail.com, www.mgsoc.org. 35th Annual Franklin Garden Walk Wed, Jun 10, 10am-4pm & 6-9pm, Franklin area. By Franklin Garden Club. $12/person in advance. $15 day of. Proceeds from ticket sales will support horticultural scholarships as well as environmental, horticultural & educational causes. Local artisan boutique on the Franklin Village Green 9am-5pm. 248-403-5118, or franklingardenclub@gmail.com. **CANCELLED** Stories in the Garden Wed, Jun 10, **CANCELLED (Coronavirus)** 10-11:30am, East Lansing. At MSU. FREE. Teens will be reading stories to younger children—a magical time of fun & learning. www.canr.msu.edu. Shelby Garden Club: Rain, Rain, Don’t Go Away Thu, Jun 11, 1pm, Shelby Township. By Shelby Garden Club at Shelby Township Activities Center. Join the garden club for the do’s & don’ts of rainwater upcycling. **CANCELLED** Master Gardener College Fri, Jun 12, **CANCELLED (Coronavirus)** East Lansing. By MSU Extension, at Kellogg Hotel & Conference Center. Hands-on workshops, riveting lectures & the chance to learn more about a variety of topics, there’s sure to be something for everyone. 517-884-7081, braidbet@msu.edu.

Yardeners Native Plant Sale Sat, Jun 13, 9am-Noon, St Clair Shores. By Yardeners of St. Clair Shores at Selinsky-Green Farmhouse Museum. Deadline for pre-order May 30. Order forms: scsyardeners@gmail.com. H Super Sprout Kid’s Club: Ladybug Trio Sat, Jun 13, 11:30am, all locations. At English Gardens. $5. Bring your Super Sprout to create a Ladybug Trio. We supply all the materials needed. www.EnglishGardens.com. H Bonsai Workshop Sat, Jun 13, 1pm, Troy, At Telly’s. $45. Plant and create your own bonsai tree to enjoy for years to come. Instruction will include plant & pot selection, root combing, root pruning, potting, basic styling techniques, & aftercare. www.tellys.com. Rose Show Sat, Jun 20, & Sun, Jun 21. Grand Rapids. At Frederik Meijer Gardens. Enjoy a variety of rose blossoms on display, all locally grown & carefully prepped. www.meijergardens.org. H Bonsai Workshop Sat, Jun 20, 1pm, Troy, At Telly’s. $45. Plant and create your own bonsai tree to enjoy for years to come. Instruction will include plant & pot selection, root combing, root pruning, potting, basic styling techniques, & aftercare. www.tellys.com. Trailwood Garden Club 24th Annual Garden Walk Tue, Jun 23, 11am-7pm, Plymouth. By Trailwood Garden Club. “Flowers Are Forever.” Treasure & plant sale. www.trailwoodgardenclub.com. **CANCELLED** Digger Day Tue, Jun 23, **CANCELLED (Coronavirus)** 10am-Noon. At MSU. $5/child. Come to the garden and explore frontend loaders, dump trucks & backhoes. www.canr.msu.edu. Crocker House Garden Walk Sat, Jun 27, 9am-4pm, Mount Clemens. By Macomb County Historical Society at Crocker House Museum. $15. Garden Walk, Breakfast Talk: Magical Monarchs. info@crockerhousemuseum.org. Tri-Cities Garden Walk Sat, Jun 27, 10am-4pm, Grand Haven. Hosted by: Tri-Cities Garden Club at Gardens in the Spring Lake area. Ticket and garden information: www.tricitiesgardenclub.org.

NOTICE: Contact event organizer to verify event is still scheduled. Jackson County Master Gardener 2020 Garden Tour Sat, Jun 27, 10am-4pm, Jackson. By Jackson County Master Gardeners at 8 gardens & bonus learning garden. $8/advance. $10/day of. Vendors, artists, food trucks at Blackman Park. marlagilpin05@gmail.com, 517-499-4442. H Bonsai Workshop Sat, Jun 27, 1pm, Troy, At Telly’s. $45. Plant and create your own bonsai tree to enjoy for years to come. Instruction will include plant & pot selection, root combing, root pruning, potting, basic styling techniques, & aftercare. www.tellys.com.

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

June 2020 July/August 2020

Deadline May 20, 2020 June 15, 2020

MichiganGardener.com | May 2020 | Michigan Gardener

**CANCELLED** Genesee County Master Gardener Home Tour 2020 Sun, Jun 28, **CANCELLED (Coronavirus)** 10am-5pm, Swartz Creek. By Master Gardener Association of Genesee County. $10/adult $2/ children under 12. Self-guided tour. Each garden has an educational component. Master Gardeners on hand to answer questions. gcgardentour. weebly.com, 810-610-0545. Recognize Your Garden Weeds Tue, Jun 30, 5:30-7:30, Sterling Heights. At Sterling Heights Nature Ctr. $10. Dr. Erin Hill will discuss the most common weeds & how to manage them. https://events.anr.msu.edu/gardenweeds.

July **CANCELLED** Stories in the Garden Tue, Jul 7, **CANCELLED (Coronavirus)** 7-8:30pm, East Lansing. At MSU. FREE. Teens will be reading stories to younger children—a magical time of fun & learning. www.canr.msu.edu.

NOTICE: Contact event organizer to verify event is still scheduled. **CANCELLED** Garden Writers Workshop Tue, Jul 7, **CANCELLED (Coronavirus)** Tue-Thu, 10amNoon, East Lansing. At MSU. $30. Age 7 & up. Young writers will learn about the wonderful world of writing in the garden. www.canr.msu.edu. **CANCELLED** Northville Garden Walk - 27th Annual Wed, Jul 8, **CANCELLED (Coronavirus)** 9am-4pm, Northville. By Country Garden Club of Northville at 7 gorgeous gardens PLUS a bonus Mini walk. $12/advance $15/ day of. www.cgcnv.org, 734-451-5553. **CANCELLED** Troy Garden Club 46th Annual Garden Walk Wed, Jul 8, **CANCELLED (Coronavirus)** 9:30am-3pm & 5pm-8:30pm, Troy. “Kaleidoscope of Gardens.” By Troy Garden Club at 7 private gardens at 7 venues. Rain/Shine $12/ Advance; $15/Day of. Activities at the Troy Historic Village, 9am-6pm: Midsummer Arts & Crafts Boutique, Plant Sale & Student Art Exhibit. www.TroyGardenClubMI.com, 248-540-6158. H Super Sprout Kid’s Club: Stepping Stone Sat, Jul 11, 11:30am, all locations. At English Gardens. $5. Bring your Super Sprout to create a stepping stone. We supply all the materials needed. www.EnglishGardens.com. Grandmont Community Association’s Garden Tour Sat, Jul 11, NW Detroit. By Grandmont Garden Club & The Grandmont Community Association. This fund helps graduating high school students that live in Grandmont. Lorena Rashid: 313-585-2499. Belleville Area Garden Walk: Gardens with a Vision Sun, Jul 12, Belleville & Van Buren Township. By Belleville Area Garden Walk Committee at 7 area gardens. Knowledgeable docents & gardeners on hand. www.bellevilleareagardenwalk.com. H Garden Delight Tour Wed, Jul 15, 11am-1pm, Fenton. At Heavenly Scent Herb Farm. $29.99. www.heavenlyscentherbfarm.com. **CANCELLED** 38th Annual Garden Walk - Interlochen Thu, Jul 16, **CANCELLED (Coronavirus)** Noon-7pm, Interlochen area. By Friendly Garden Club at Long Lake/ Interlochen area gardens. $10/pre-sale $12/day of. www.mynorthtickets.com. Michigan Koi & Pond Club Annual Pond Tour Sat, Jul 18, 10am-5pm, West Bloomfield/Commerce. By Michigan Koi & Pond Club. $10/adult, $5/under 12. Beautiful gardens with water features. Rain/shine. mkpc-se.com for more information. Hosta Show Sat, Jul 18, 10am-5pm & Sun, 11am-5 pm, Grand Rapids. At Frederik Meijer Gardens. FREE. Hosta leaves will be displayed in vases, showcasing an amazing variety. West MI Hosta Society members available to answer questions. H Outdoor Garden Tea Party Wed, Jul 22, 11:30-1:30, Fenton. At Heavenly Scent Herb Farm. $31.75. The perfect way to celebrate summer. Dates: 7/22, 7/23, 7/24, 7/28, 7/29, 7/30. www.heavenlyscentherbfarm.com.

Silver Anniversary Garden Tour Sat, Jul 25, 9am-4pm, Houghton & Higgins Lake area, Michigan By Kirtland Garden Club. Tickets are $10 presale, $12 day of event. Self-guided tour. 832-360-0974.

August 27th Annual Garden Tour: Yardeners of St. Clair Shores Sat, Aug 1, 9am-3pm, St. Clair Shores. By Yardeners of St. Clair Shores. $5. Kids under 12 free. Begin at the SelinskyGreen Farmhouse Museum. Visit the vendors & see the sponsors at the garden sites. Rain/Shine. Self guided tour. scsyardeners@gmail.com. H Super Sprout Kid’s Club: Carnivorous Plant Terrarium Sat, Aug 8, 11:30am, all locations. At English Gardens. $24.99. Bring your Super Sprout to create a Carnivorous Plant Terrarium. www.EnglishGardens.com. **CANCELLED** Stories in the Garden Wed, Aug 12, **CANCELLED (Coronavirus)** 10-11:30am, East Lansing. At MSU. FREE. Teens will be reading stories to younger children—a magical time of fun & learning. www.canr.msu.edu. H Family Bike Day At Hidden Lake Gardens Fri, Aug 14, Tipton. At Hidden Lake Gardens. 10th Annual Summer Garden Tour Sat, Aug 15, Detroit. At Black Cat Pottery. Register: www.blackcatpottery.com. H Herbal Summer Faire Sat, Aug 29, 10am-5pm & Sun, 11am-4pm, Fenton. At Heavenly Scent Herb Farm. $3. www.heavenlyscentherbfarm.com. Dahlia Show Sat, Aug 29, & Sun, Aug 30; Grand Rapids. At Frederik Meijer Gardens. Marvel at the variety of colors, shapes &amp; sizes of dahlia flowers &amp; view creative floral arrangements. www.meijergardens.org. Grand Garden Show Sun, Aug 30, Mackinac Island. By Proven Winners at Grand Hotel. Three days of garden tours, expert speakers & educational content. www.grandgardenshow.com.

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September Dahlias: 68th Annual Dahlia Show & Competition Fri, Sep 11, 12-9:30pm, West Bloomfield Twp. By The Southeastern Michigan Dahlia Society. At Orchard Mall. 500 dahlias of varying size, color & form. www.semds.org, 248-689-5947. H Super Sprout Kid’s Club: Nature Art Sat, Sep 12, 11:30, all locations. At English Gardens. $5. Bring your Super Sprout to create a Nature Art piece. We supply all the materials needed. www.EnglishGardens.com.

NOTICE: Contact event organizer to verify event is still scheduled. Chrysanthemums & More Fri, Sep 18, through Nov 1, Grand Rapids. At Frederik Meijer Gardens. Celebrate the autumn season with an extensive display of hundreds of flowering plants. Color tours, tram rides & seasonal children’s activities. Yardeners Fall Plant Exchange Sat, Sep 19, 9am-11am, St. Clair Shores Library. By Yardeners of St. Clair Shores at St. Clair Shores Library parking lot. Load up your vehicles with your extra labeled plants & divisions. scsyardeners@gmail.com. Herb & Gourd Fest Sat, Sep 19, & Sun, Sep 20; Grand Rapids. At Frederik Meijer Gardens. Discover a variety of ways to use herbs & gourds in this fall event. Gourds available for purchase. www.meijergardens.org. Japanese Garden 5th Anniversary Celebration Lecture Tue, Sep 22, 6pm, Grand Rapids. At Frederik Meijer Gardens. Author Leslie Buck will embark on a garden adventure in Kyoto as seen through the daily lives of gardeners, rather than visitors. Great Gardens Party Wed, Sep 23, 6pm, Grand Rapids. At Frederik Meijer Gardens. $100/ticket. Cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, a sit-down dinner, live/silent auctions, a raffle & much more.

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Michigan Gardener | May 2020 | MichiganGardener.com

Send Us Your Photos!

through the lens

1. E-mail 2 or 3 of your best garden photos to: photos@MichiganGardener.com. We are looking for photos of your garden, both wide-angle and plant close-ups. Be sure to e-mail a high-resolution file. 2. Please include your full name and a caption describing the scene and the plants. 3. If your photo is published, we’ll give you a free one-year subscription to Michigan Gardener.

Photographs from Michigan gardeners

Barbara Scully captured this close-up of a bee doing its work on a dahlia bloom.

“Pastel pink Bee Balm glowing in the late afternoon sun at my local nature park.” —Susan Millington

“(Our garden) is a labor of love and not too difficult to maintain. We enjoy it, and so do our neighbors, along with bees, butterflies, birds and occasional bunnies.” —Pam Csatari

“These flowers make me smile each time I go to pick up the mail!” —Rhea Bertelsen

www.MichiganGardener.com | May 2020 | Michigan Gardener

Precipitation March 2020

Detroit Flint Lansing

NORMAL Monthly 2.28 1.91 2.06

ACTUAL Monthly 3.86 2.41 2.94

March 2019 DEVIATION from Normal +1.58 +0.50 +0.88

2020 Year to Date: Jan 1 - March 31

Encyclopedia of Gardening Techniques by the American Horticultural Society This revised and updated edition of the classic gardening reference Encyclopedia of Gardening Techniques (Mitchell Beazley, 480 pages, $45) is a step-by-step guide to basic techniques gardeners need to know. It introduces modern methods to a new generation of gardeners. Compiled by leading specialists in every area of gardening, the book contains a vast amount of expert information and demonstrates the tried-and-tested techniques honed by leading gardening authorities. Using more than 1,600 illustrations and photos and over 400 step-by-step sequences, this reference covers every aspect of gardening, from pruning to sowing, watering to feeding, and propagating to planting. The book touches on all plant groups, including trees, shrubs, perennials, annuals, lawns, vegetables, fruit and herbs. It also discusses organic techniques, recycling, and pest and disease treatments. The breadth of practical information here will have both novices and seasoned gardeners pulling out this book time and time again.

A Way to Garden: A Hands-On Primer for Every Season by Margaret Roach For Margaret Roach, gardening is more than a hobby—it’s a calling. Her unique approach, which she calls “horticultural how-to and woo-woo,” is a blend of vital information you should memorize and intuitive steps you should simply feel. In A Way to Garden (Timber Press, 320 pages, $30), the author imparts decades of garden wisdom on seasonal gardening, ornamental plants, vegetable gardening, design, gardening for wildlife, organic practices, and much more. She also challenges gardeners to think beyond their garden borders and to consider the ways gardening can enrich the world. Brimming with photographs of her own garden, A Way to Garden is both practical and inspiring for any passionate gardener.

The Pollinator Victory Garden by Kim Eierman Every yard, community garden, rooftop, porch, patio, commercial, and municipal landscape can help to reverse the tide against pollinator decline. Readers will learn how in The Pollinator Victory Garden (Quarry Books, 160 pages, $26.99). Pollinators are critical to our food supply and responsible for the pollination of the vast majority of flowering plants on our planet. But many pollinators are in trouble, and the reality is that most landscapes have little to offer them. Our residential and commercial landscapes typically consist of mostly lawns. These green expanses are ecological wastelands for bees and other pollinators. Through this guide, learn how to transition your landscape into a pollinator haven. You can create a habitat that includes pollinator nutrition, larval host plants for butterflies and moths, and areas for egg laying, nesting, sheltering, overwintering, resting, and warming. It shares a wealth of information to support pollinators while also improving the environment around you.

Detroit Flint Lansing

NORMAL Yr. to Date 6.26 5.02 5.18

ACTUAL Yr. to Date 9.14 6.70 8.21

NORMAL

Monthly 2.28 1.91 2.06

ACTUAL Monthly 2.46 2.34 1.96

DEVIATION from Normal +0.18 +0.43 -0.10

2019 Year TOTAL: Jan 1 - March 31

DEVIATION from Normal +2.88 +1.68 +3.03

NORMAL Yr. to Date 6.26 5.02 5.18

ACTUAL Yr. to Date 6.54 6.64 6.40

DEVIATION from Normal +0.28 +1.62 +1.22

Temperature March 2020

March 2019

Detroit Flint Lansing

NORMAL Avg. High 45.2 43.1 43.5

ACTUAL Avg. High 49.3 49.9 47.8

DEVIATION from Normal +4.1 +6.8 +4.3

ORMAL N Avg. High 45.2 43.1 43.5

ACTUAL Avg. High 43.0 40.5 40.9

DEVIATION from Normal -2.2 -2.6 -2.6

Detroit Flint Lansing

NORMAL Avg. Low 28.5 24.3 24.3

ACTUAL Avg. Low 33.2 31.1 30.2

DEVIATION from Normal +4.7 +6.8 +5.9

ORMAL N Avg. Low 28.5 24.3 24.3

ACTUAL Avg. Low 25.7 22.6 22.9

DEVIATION from Normal -2.8 -1.7 -1.4

Data courtesy National Weather Service

Your Edible Yard: Landscaping with Fruits and Vegetables by Crystal Stevens Learn how to transform your space into something beautiful and vibrant that also offers a continuous supply of food. Using photographs and watercolor planting charts, Your Edible Yard (New Society Publishers, 280 pages, $34.99) shows you how. Read about practical gardening methods, permaculture principles, and many gardening resources—where to go for help, buy seeds, and source supplies on a budget. Once the prep work is finished, the author shares how to integrate culinary and medicinal herbs, edible flowers, mushrooms, fruits, vegetables, and wild edibles. Instructions on preserving, fermenting, freezing, drying, and making simple medicines ensure you get the most of each plant. Whether you’re a beginner gardener in the city, the suburbs, or the country, this manual helps you make your space productive.

Deer-Resistant Design by Karen Chapman Deer are one of the most common problems a gardener can face. Common solutions include the use of unattractive fencing and chemicals. Deer-Resistant Design (Timber Press, 240 pages, $24.95) offers another option—intentional design choices that result in beautiful gardens that coexist with wildlife. The book showcases real home gardens across North America that have successfully managed the presence of deer. Each homeowner shares their top ten deer-resistant plants—welcome additions to a deer-challenged gardener’s shopping list. A chapter on deer-resistant container gardens provides suggestions for making colorful, captivating, and imaginative containers. With practical advice and inspiring design ideas, this book will help you confidently tackle this challenging problem.

Michigan Gardener | May 2020 | MichiganGardener.com

Photo 2A

Photo 2B

Identifying members of the red oak family and white oak family is relatively easy. Red oak family members have pointed leaf lobes (Photo 2A), while white oak family members have rounded leaf lobes (Photo 2B).

Photo 3A

Photo 3B

Fresh wounds (Photo 3A) on oaks attract sap beetles, which carry the deadly oak wilt fungus. Wounds may be caused by a variety of factors (pruning, storm damage, lawn mowers, etc.) and are attractive to sap beetles for 5 to 7 days. Sap beetles (Photo 3B) are small, dark-colored insects that feed on the sap of trees. One type of sap beetle is the picnic beetle (Photo 3B), so named because they are also attracted to the smells emanating from beverages and foods at outdoor family get-togethers. continued from back cover duces what is known as a “fungal mat” beneath the bark of red oaks (Photo 7A). This fungal mat is sometimes called a pressure pad because it often produces a crack in the bark of afflicted trees (Photo 7B). These fungal mats are attractive to sap beetles, which haphazardly spread spores to fresh wounds on oak trees (Photo 3A). Diagnosis of oak wilt can be difficult. One

prominent symptom is premature leaf drop, often beginning in the middle of summer (Photo 8). Oak wilt may be confused with other maladies such as anthracnose, cynipid wasp gall, and two-lined chestnut borer, to name a few. Because of the seriousness and costs to contain and eradicate the disease, oak wilt should be confirmed by laboratory analysis. In addition to lab tests, the discovery of a pressure pad is considered proof of the diagnosis of oak wilt.

Oak wilt management by avoidance Due to the cost of containment and eradication, the best approach to oak wilt management is to avoid it altogether. Oak trees in landscapes can be worth many thousands of dollars individually, and once killed by the disease, cannot be replaced during our lifetime. Following are some tips for avoiding the disease. Pruning: Avoid pruning oak trees during the primary months of overland spread (Table 1). The risky periods for tree injury are

generally from early spring through the fall, in variable degrees. Incidentally, any wound can attract sap beetles that may carry the deadly fungus: pruning, storm damage, lawn mower injury, weed trimmer injury, disc golf—anything that can cause an open wound on an oak tree. Never assume deadwood can be safely pruned from oak trees during the risky period; too many examples have resulted in oak wilt. Emergency pruning: It is sometimes nec-

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Photo 7A

Photo 6 Photo 4 Trees, especially of the same species, may form root grafts, which enable them to share nutrients, water, and, unfortunately, diseases.

We are all familiar with “mushrooms,” a fungal structure used for reproduction and dissemination of future generations of a fungus. This one is known as the “stinkhorn” mushroom (unrelated to oak wilt).

Photo 5 In addition to overland spread by sap beetles, the oak wilt fungus can be transferred in firewood to your cottage up north. The Michigan DNR vehemently frowns on campers bringing firewood into state parks and campsites. essary to prune oaks during the risky periods. Suppose, for example, your daughter is having a wedding at your home in June and some branches in those mighty landscape oaks are dead and may pose a threat to guests during the outdoor ceremony and reception. Branches can be pruned during the risky periods provided exposed cuts are treated thoroughly with a protective sealant (pruning paint, latex paint, etc.) IMMEDIATELY after the wounds are made. It has been shown that sap beetles

can detect fresh wounds on oak trees from considerable distances (miles) and begin arriving within minutes after a wound is created to “sip the sap”—the namesake of “sap beetle.” Storm damage “repair”: Storms can create wounds on oak trees and are as attractive as fresh pruning cuts to sap beetles carrying the deadly fungus (Photo 9). It is advisable to seal wounds created by storms as soon as possible. In most cases, however, it is impossible to

seal storm-damaged wounds within minutes. Because the infection process of an oak wound by the oak wilt fungus may take hours to a couple of days, it would be advisable to make a fresh cut away from the storm damage (closer to the trunk) and apply sealant immediately.

Oak wilt management at confirmed sites Often, oak wilt is not discovered until after continued on next page

Photo 7B The oak wilt fungus produces a unique reproductive structure called a fungal mat (Photo 7A). Note the grayish mold with a dark center. Fungal mats tend to be oval in shape and about the size of a human hand or slightly smaller. Fungal mats form beneath the bark of red oaks and are frequently referred to as pressure pads, because they push out the bark, often forming a crack (Photo 7B). P H OTO G R A P H S BY D R . DAV I D L . R O B E R T S

)

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continued from previous page trees begin showing symptoms or after trees have died. Nevertheless, such situations usually still require attention to stop root graft transmission to nearby trees and other properties. Property owners may not realize that roots of trees may extend outward 1-1/2 to 2 times the height of the trees. There are several ways to prevent oak wilt transmission through root grafts. Root graft disruption (RGD): Severing roots between trees can prevent the transmission of the deadly oak wilt fungus. Unfortunately, roots must be severed to a depth of at least 5 to 6 feet depending on soil type. RGD may be accomplished by various equipment: vibratory plows, trenchers, backhoes, excavators, etc. (Photo 10). There are two basic models for where to enact RGD: the Forest Management Model for trees of low value in forest situations and the Tier Tree Model for high value trees in residential areas, parks, preserves, nature centers, etc., developed and fine-tuned by the author over the last 30-plus years. Utilities are a major challenge in residential areas. If oak wilt occurs in a residential area, it is imperative that the Tier Tree Model be considered rather than the Forest Management Model, which is very destructive and sacrificial for valuable oak trees in urban areas. Tree injections: Healthy red oaks can be protected from root graft transmission by injecting healthy trees with the fungicide propiconazole (Photo 11) at high rates. Tree injections must be done every two years for a minimum of 6 to 8 years. Even though infected red oaks generally cannot be saved by tree injections, infected white oaks may be cured by tree injections. Research is being conducted with higher rates of fungicide with the

Photo 8 One of the initial and primary symptoms of oak wilt is premature leaf drop, often occurring in the spring (from root graft transmission) or middle summer. Leaves that drop range in coloration from healthy green to olive green to tan.

Table 1

Risk of Oak Wilt Infections from Tree Injury These periods may change somewhat as new research is performed. The high-risk period (spring through early summer) will likely be consistent. DANGER: April 15 - July 15 = Highest Risk CAUTION: July 16 - November 30 = Lower Risk ACCEPTABLE: December 1 - April 14 = Safest Period Injury of Oaks may occur from Pruning, Storm Injury or a variety of mechanical means such as Disc Golf, Lawn Mowers, Weed Trimmers, etc.

Photo 9 Storm injury can attract sap beetles as easily as fresh pruning cuts. Note the wilted foliage (left) from oak wilt infection of the storm-injured branch and green, unaffected foliage (right) as the fungus moves toward the trunk of the tree (right). Removing this limb close to the trunk within a couple days of the storm and immediately sealing the fresh pruning cut would eliminate the disease from this tree, and no further steps would likely be necessary.

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Table 2

Proper Sequence of Oak Wilt Management Practices 1. Trench (sever roots) and/ or inject oaks. 2. WAIT for safest pruning period. 3. Remove diseased trees in late fall or winter (safest pruning period).

hope that infected red oaks may one day be saved after they become infected. Glyphosate/stump cup: This technique, also developed by the author, has proven to be highly effective for some situations: critical dune areas, mixed stands of trees in woodlots, and where budgets do not permit expensive tree injections and/or disruptive trenching (RGD). The glyphosate/stump cup technique involves creating a “stump cup” in a tier of healthy trees around an epicenter of diseased oaks and pouring concentrated glyphosate into the stump cup. This method is by far the least costly and least disruptive, but may cause unintentional collateral damage to nearby oak trees by root graft transmission of the herbicide to non-target trees. Some trees may unintentionally be harmed or killed. It would be prudent to consult with the author or other qualified person before implementation of this method. Photo 10 Oak wilt remediation can be very disruptive and costly—a good reason to avoid the disease altogether. This photo shows root graft disruption (RGD) with the aid of a mini excavator in two tiers using the author’s Tier Tree Model.

Photo 11 Another option for oak wilt remediation, in lieu of RGD (where trenching is not possible) or in conjunction with RGD, is tree injection with fungicide. Because repeat applications must be performed every two years for at least 6 to 8 years, this option can become rather costly.

Conclusion Each oak wilt site is unique. On occasion, two or more of the remediation techniques may be used in a collaborative manner for added assurance of stopping oak wilt. Remediation efforts should follow a prescribed order (Table 2). Before implementation of oak wilt remediation efforts, it would be best to consult with a qualified arborist. To learn more about oak wilt, visit the Oak Wilt Coalition website (www.MichiganOakWilt.org). The author also has many more publications and extensive information available upon request (robertsd@msu.edu).

Dr. David Roberts retired from Michigan State University in 2018, where he received his Ph.D. in 1982. He has published hundreds of articles and taught hundreds of workshops, and researched many Michigan plant industry issues: oak wilt, Dutch elm disease, diplodia tip blight of pines, plant nutrition, and herbicide toxicity. He has discovered new diseases and pests such as phomopsis canker of spruce and the first bacterial wilt disease of turf grasses in North America. His research on Southeast Michigan ash decline led to the discovery of the emerald ash borer in North America. Contact him at robertsd@msu.edu, treedoctordave@ gmail.com, or 248-320-7124.

| May 2020 | MichiganGardener.com

Don’t let your oak wilt

Learn how to recognize, avoid, and manage this devastating oak tree disease

ak wilt, caused by the fungus Bretziella fagacearum, is a lethal disease of oak trees (Quercus) in Michigan (Photo 1). The disease is found in the eastern half of the United States, ranging from the northern states to Texas. In the last few years, the incitant of the disease was determined to be an introduced (non-native, invasive) fungus. The red oak family members (Northern red oak, pin oak, scarlet oak, black oak, etc.) are highly susceptible and generally die within a month or two of becoming infected (Photo 2A). The white oak family (white oak, bur oak, swamp white oak, chestnut oak, Dr. David L. chinquapin oak, etc.) Roberts tends to be more tolerant of the disease and may even recover from infections (Photo 2B). In the white oak family, bur oak is, perhaps, the most susceptible and can succumb to the disease.

Oak wilt biological aspects The oak wilt fungus spreads by two major methods: 1) Overland, to fresh wounds on oak trees by sap beetles (Photo 3A and 3B); and 2) Underground, through root grafts. Oak trees, especially the same species, often form root grafts (Photo 4) underground between nearby trees, thus sharing sap, nutrients, water and, unfortunately, infectious agents that cause diseases. The disease has many similar attributes to Dutch elm disease: nonnative, vascular wilt, lethality to the host tree, and transmission by insects and root grafts. Oak wilt can also be distributed to other locations in firewood or logs (Photo 5). Many fungi produce reproductive structures commonly known as “mushrooms” (Photo 6) as a way of propagating future generations and for disseminating themselves, usually by spores. The oak wilt fungus procontinued on page 44

Photo 1 The dynamic lethality of oak wilt is shown in this image. In the spring, an unprofessional tree trimmer had pruned all trees except the one on the left (which was over the property line). Within 1 to 2 months, all injured trees began to drop leaves and die after overland transmission of the oak wilt fungus by sap beetles to the fresh wounds. The lone survivor (left) eventually died from root graft transmission.