The Kansas City
GARDENER A Monthly Guide to Successful Gardening
April 2020
Top Perennials for Shade Gardens
April Showers bring May Rain Gardens Edible Native Plants that Deer Loathe Create the Best Lawn on the Block Private gardens opened for public viewing
editor’s notes
The Kansas City
GARDENER A Monthly Guide to Successful Gardening
Independently owned and operated since 1996
Healthy, happy spring
Publisher Michael Cavanaugh Editor Elizabeth Cavanaugh Contributors Mark DeDonder Tracy Flowers Nik and Theresa Hiremath Lenora Larson Ken O’Dell Dennis Patton Judy Penner Tamra Reall Ed Reese Chelsea Didde Rice Denise Sullivan Scott Woodbury Distribution Publishers Delivery Solutions, Inc.
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April 2020 | kcgmag.com
W
e’ve been anticipating the arrival of spring and all that goes along with a new growing season. Instead, we are adapting to an eerie time of life with the outbreak of the coronavirus, COVID-19. Let me start with saying that Mr. Gardener and I are well. We live a quiet, healthy lifestyle with no plans to change. Because we work from home, and it is only the two of us in this business, our exposure to the virus is low. Like many, however, we are exercising extreme caution by social distancing and hand washing if we must go out. And since restaurants are closed for the next little while, all of our meals will be at home. Speaking of closures, I want to be upfront about the articles and events that are published in this issue. Before going to press, national, state, and local agencies were still developing action plans related to mitigating the coronavirus. We received cancellations and postponement notices upto and after the press date. So a word of caution is in order. Before you
make plans to attend any event, please confirm the status. Garden tours, plant sales and workshops alike are subject to new guidelines where there are gatherings of 10 or more people. While deliberately spending more time at home, I found myself viewing the garden from my living room. What has caught my attention beyond the garden, are the number of people walking their dogs, with children loaded in wagons and strollers in tow. Even though the weather was cloudy, cold, and rainy, we have seen an increase in neighborhood walkers. Isn’t that a bright light amid this gloomy chapter? We all know by now what to do to stay safe and healthy. What are you doing to stay sane? Sometimes the feeling of confinement and restriction overshadows the opportunities before us. The National Garden Bureau developed “a few suggestions to cultivate something
good.” For the complete list go to ngb.org. Here are a few that caught my eye. Plan to grow flowers that make you happy, like sunflowers, nasturtiums and zinnias. Redesign the plantings in the front of your house, by researching plants that grow well in our area. What about taking an online class about plants or gardens? YouTube is loaded with content that addresses any area of interest. For me, I will keep wandering out to the garden. I’ll scratch around looking for some sign of new life. I’ll watch the buds on peonies swell. I’ll finally make time to prune the boxwoods. And I’m going to hand write a few long overdue letters. To you dear gardener, I wish you healthy days and happiness. I’ll see you in the garden!
In this issue April 2020 • Vol. 25 No. 4 Ask the Experts ........................ 4 Kids Ask Dr. Bug ...................... 6 Miami Co Farm Tour ................ 8 National Gardening and Volunteering Month .................. 10 Create the Best Lawn ............... 12 Edible Native Plants ................. 14 Rose Report ............................. 15 Baltimore Oriole ...................... 16 Top Perennials for Shade Gardens ....................... 18
about the cover ...
Frequently Asked Butterfly Questions ............................... 20 April Showers Bring May Rain Gardens .................. 22 Gardens open for tour ............ 24 Plants on Your Plate Spinach ..... 26 Upcoming Events ..................... 28 Adorable Dandelion ............... 32 Garden Calendar ................... 34 Hotlines ................................. 35 Subscribe ............................... 35
Hosta is one of the perennials mentioned that is ideal for shade gardens. Learn more starting on page 18.
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Plants don’t get to choose, but you do. Osmocote® Smart-Release® Plant Food Flower & Vegetable Feeds continuously and consistently for up to 4 full months. If you grow your own, grow with Osmocote®. © 2020, The Scotts Company, LLC. All rights reserved
Ask the Experts Photo courtesy of North Carolina Research and Extension.
HOW TO CONTROL A BLACKBERRY PATCH Question: I inherited a neglected patch of blackberries. The area is overgrown. How do I rein in this mess, or should I just start over? Answer: Blackberries are a tasty treat, but they send up suckers as they grow and can quickly become a briar patch. Start by removing canes that have grown out of bounds. Chop back to the ground as many as necessary to get the plant under control. Next, remove the old, dead canes. Blackberries have biennial canes – that is one year they grow vegetative and the next year they flower, fruit and die. Cut out any small, thin canes less than ½ inch diameter. The goal is to leave a cane about every 6 to 8 inches with rows no wider than 15 inches for ease of picking.
Photo courtesy of K-State Research and Extension.
Gardeners have plenty of questions about soil and plant issues, DENNIS PATTON answers a few of them here.
Learn how and when to prune a blackberry patch. Lastly, cut back the long trailing canes to side branches off the main cane leaving 4 to 6 buds on each side branch. Fruit will develop on the buds later in the summer.
Squirrels are likely culprit of tree damage. Unfortunately, since the developing canes were not pruned last summer, there may be few lateral side shoots. Clear as mud? Both K-State and MU Extension have excellent information about pruning blackberries for the future reference. For now, just get the plant under control. PEELING STRIPS OF BARK Question: Help! Something is shredding or peeling strips of bark off my oak tree. Can this be the work of squirrels? Answer: Ding, ding, ding! We have a winner! Yes, it is squir-
rels – our favorite tree rat. Experts don’t fully understand why they tear strips of bark from trees. They think it is a method of sharpening their teeth, searching for moisture, or just plain boredom. No matter the reason, it is hard to watch. There is not a lot to be done to prevent this without ridding the area of these pesky critters. The damage usually happens in late winter and stops as spring arrives. The good news is, while it looks like extensive damage, the branch usually recovers with time. For now, just keep an eye on those tree rats.
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APRIL SHOWERS SALE Save 10% if you shop on rainy days
913-642-5034 Open Mon.-Fri. 9am-6pm Sat. 9am-5pm Sun. 12-5pm 6303 West 75th St, Prairie Village, KS
Photo courtesy of North Carolina Research and Extension.
Photo courtesy of K-State Research and Extension.
Hydrangea ‘Quick Fire’ continuous color is impressive even through fall season.
Consider growing vinca as ground cover instead of grass under an oak tree.
HYDRANGEA PRUNING TIPS Question: Upon your recommendation, I added more hydrangea to my garden. I planted the variety Quick Fire and Pinky Winky last year. With all the rain we had, they produced big, showy, white flowers and a tinge of pink. Now I am in my second year. When and how should I prune these plants? Answer: I am glad you had success growing the panicle hydrangeas. Given ample moisture, you will be rewarded each summer. The ideal time to prune is when growth begins in the spring. I like to wait for the buds to pop open, showing green – this way I know where a vigorous shoot will develop. Prune back to around 18” to 2’, just above one of the strong buds. With severe pruning, the plant remains compact, developing more resilient branches and producing a larger flower bud. Left unpruned or not as hard, the shrub tends to produce a lot of thin branches that generate smaller flower heads and not as
showy. When finished, the plant will resemble the same rounded form as developed, so avoid cutting all the branches back at the same height. Personally, I think any pruning of this plant is better than no pruning. Best of luck! GROWING GRASS PREDICAMENT Question: I am attempting to grow grass under my old oak. I was told the oak leaves turned the soil acidic so to raise the pH by applying lime. I did that two years ago and I still have no grass. I give up, what do I need to do to grow grass under the oak? Answer: You have already answered your own question – give up! The issue is not with the soil but the lack of sunlight. We have no species or varieties of grass that thrives in our climate on low light. The lack of sunlight causes the grass to slowly die out over summer. To maintain grass in this area, overseeding each fall is required. Even then, expect the stand to be thin.
As for the addition of lime, it was probably not necessary nor helpful. Yes, oak leaves acidify the soil as they decompose. But oak leaves do not remain on the ground like the forest floor. They have little or no effect on pH. Leaves will not change the pH of the soil for years, maybe a hundred years. Never apply lime in the KC area without a soil test as local soils tend to already be high in pH. Adding lime can compound this problem. My advice is to forget grass in the shade. A mulch layer or ground cover is the best long-term solution. I know it is hard to adjust your paradigm, but it is just not worth fighting for a lawn in the shade. ORGANIC MATTER, YES IT CAN BE TOO MUCH OF A GOOD THING Question: Can I get too much compost and organic matter in my garden soil? Answer: Great question, and the short answer is yes. As gardeners, we recommend the use of compost all the time. It’s nature’s black gold! But like anything in life, there can be too much of a
good thing. Ideally, the organic matter content of the soil should be around 5%. Determine the amount of organic matter through soil testing provided by your local Extension office. High levels of organic matter in the soil can cause it to become light and airy, thus reducing the water holding capacity and making the soil difficult to rewet once dry. While it might look like good, fertile dark soil, it does not have enough of our good old clay to create that delicate balance of air and water holding capacity. It is hard to imagine, but some clay is a good thing. Organic matter levels break down over time the more you till the soil. So additional applications can help keep up an acceptable level. Gardening in highly organic matter soils may make tillage and digging a breeze, but water relationships begin to be a challenge. Dennis Patton is the horticulture agent for Johnson County K-State Research and Extension. For free information fact sheets, visit www.johnson.ksu.edu, or call the Extension office at 913-715-7000.
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Kids Ask Dr. Bug Home to more than plants, kids ask DR. TAMRA REALL about the curious things found in the garden. Where do butterflies go when it rains? Laura, 9 One day last summer, while there was a gentle rainfall, I noticed a small butterfly hanging upside down under a thick blade of grass. Butterflies and moths hide when it rains – under leaves, rocks, trees, or wherever they can to keep from being hit by raindrops that are large in comparison to their body. After the storm ends, they bask in the sun until they dry off and can fly again. Is a roly-poly an insect? Nick, 12 Also known as a pillbug and woodlouse, this little crustacean is more closely related to its cousins, shrimp and crayfish, than insects. This tiny animal must have moisture to survive. It breathes through gills, although it cannot survive under water. It feeds mostly on
decaying leaves can be found under logs or rocks. It’s called a roly-poly because it can roll into a ball when disturbed. Another cool fact is that momma roly-polys have a pouch, like a kangaroo. One hundred to two hundred eggs incubate in the pouch at a time. After hatching, the babies may stay near their mom for a couple of weeks. Where does our food come from when there is snow outside? Reggie, 9 In this day and age, much of the food in our grocery stores comes from other states, and even other countries. Because it is warmer in other parts of the world, and because of technology such as refrigerated trucks, we are able to have fresh fruits and veggies yearround. Locally, some farmers grow food in greenhouses or hoop hous-
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eggs, and some parasitic wasps taste potential hosts with their antennae. Many insects use their antennae to smell. And, some insects have “ears” on their legs or abdomen.
Roly-poly es, allowing them to have warmer temperatures. What are the holes on an insect’s abdomen? Lizzy, 12 Insects breathe through these holes, called spiracles. Unlike us, insects don’t have lungs. Breathing is more passive for insects – air travels in and out through these holes and this is one of the reasons insects are so small. If they were bigger, they wouldn’t be able to get enough oxygen. Breathing isn’t the only strange (to us) body process. Butterflies and some flies taste with their feet, female crickets taste the soil with their ovipositor before laying
Why do bugs bite? Ian, 11 Depending on the insect, some may bite to get food, others may bite to protect themselves. Still others may just be tasting you curiously. Most insects are not interested in you at all. Female mosquitoes need a blood meal in order to make eggs. Bed bugs need to feed on blood in order to grow . . . and can go a year between meals! Soldier termites bite in order to protect their colonies. And, I’ve been bitten by beetles when I’ve picked them up for a closer look. Have fun outside, but take some precautions such as wearing insect repellant to avoid annoying bites. Dr. Tamra Reall (@MUExtBugN Garden) is the new horticulture specialist for MU Extension in Jackson County. For free, research-based gardening tips, call 816-833-TREE (8733), email mggkc.hotline@gmail.com, or visit www.extension2.missouri.edu.
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Miami County farms welcome visitors May 9-10 for fun look at Eastern Kansas rural life
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he event offers an inside look at farm life with interactive educational opportunities set within the region’s natural beauty. The tour is free and consists of 17 farm stops, including five new additions. Better Equine Ranch: Visitors will experience ranch life in a variety of fun and unique ways. The young and young-at-heart can make their own stick horse, ride a barrel horse, gather fresh eggs or sit and picnic while listening to the live band. Casas Somerset Sustainable Learning Center: This six-acre estate provides more than beautiful scenery. It also provides endless learning opportunities. Visitors will learn about Native American foraging methods, bee keeping and worm composting. At 1 p.m. each day children can participate the release of 15,000 ladybugs into Casa Somerset’s garden.
Five Mile Farms: This familyrun operation is passionate about regenerative farming. Visitors will get an educational look at their pastures and soil fields while getting a taste of their nutritional and delicious beef and poultry. Madd House Hill: The Nigerian Dwarf Dairy goats that live at Madd House provide the milk that is turned into lotions, soaps and other goods. Visitors can meet and play with the goats while learning about the care needed to keep them happy and healthy. Sweet Streams Lavender Company: The family behind Sweet Streams is dedicated to creating organic, high quality lavender products. Visitors will enjoy the serene surroundings of the lavender fields while getting an informational look into the growing, harvesting and processing of the lavender.
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The farm tour offers families an opportunity to spend time outdoors enjoying the more rural aspects of Miami County. Each site offers educational activities. Animals range from alpacas to Hereford cattle and horses. Most stops offer picnic and rest area amenities. Those on the lookout for the perfect photo should keep an eye out for selfie stations. Visitors should pick up a “Farm Passport” at any participating location and have it stamped at each stop for to enter into the door prize registrations. Weather plays a big role in the weekend, so visitors are encouraged to watch the forecast. Warmer weather may limit the activity level of some animals, so visitors may want to schedule those stops earlier in their day. Bees and other flying insects are important to nature’s cycle. Many of the farms intentionally feature plants that encourage pollination. Visitors with allergies are encouraged to be prepared. Several stops will have products for sale that may require refrigeration, so participants are encouraged to bring
a cooler. Products include cheese, pecans, fresh vegetables, honey, wine and blackberries. Not all locations accept credit cards, so visitors may want to carry cash if they plan on making any purchases. This self-guided tour celebrates the county’s diversity and highlights local farm products found on the back roads of Miami County. Watch for directional signs the day of the tour and visit as many of the tour stops as you like. Parking areas will be designated at each stop. While parking is available at each site, please be aware that weather and terrain may create some physical challenges. Although this event is child friendly, each site is a working farm. Visitors are asked to encourage to respect for the farm’s operations, plants and animals. Please leave pets at home. For more information about the farm tour or to receive a map of the sites please call 913-2944045. The tour’s website, www. MICOFarmTour.com, features a map of the sites and a copy of the tour’s brochure.
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April Planting Dates Plant Above-Ground Crops: 1, 2, 7, 23-25, 28, 29 • Plant Root Crops: 7-10, 13 Transplant: 1, 2, 7 • Plant Flowers: 23-25, 28, 29 • Control Pests: 16, 17, 21, 22
TREES WORK
health for your
Feeling tired? Spending just 20 minutes outside can give your brain an energy boost comparable to a cup of coffee.
Spending time in nature, conservation areas, woods, backyards, and urban parks may ease stress levels.
Getting away from busy schedules allows people to connect with nature and themselves in a way that brings calm and a sense of well-being.
Taking a nature walk may increase attention spans and creative problem-solving skills by as much as 50 percent.
Exposure to nature contributes to physical wellbeing, reducing blood pressure, heart rate, muscle tension, and the production of stress hormones.
Get healthy in nature this year. Visit mdc.mo.gov/places-go or download the free MO Outdoors app for ideas on where to go near you. Download for
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The Kansas City Gardener | April 2020
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National Gardening and Volunteer Month Extension Master Gardener Style
A
pril is a month to celebrate as gardeners. First, it is national gardening month, a time to get outside and enjoy nature. Second, it is national volunteer month, a time to recognize volunteers. What is even better is combining, taking the time to honor both at once. Let’s just call it national Extension Master Gardener Volunteer month! As a gardener in the Kansas Left: Wyandotte County Extension Master Gardeners teach youth at the Turner Community Garden about growing vegetables. Right: Douglas County City area, we hope you are aware Extension Master Gardener volunteers plant their demonstration garden while teaching good gardening practices. of the Extension Master Gardener (EMG) program. Even though KC is split by a state line, when it program is an outreach of your Examples of EMG outreach in then the EMG program might be comes to gardening, the two states local Extension office. EMGs start our community include gardening right for you. Basic training prostand united with a shared mission hotlines, speakers’ bureau, demtheir journey by participating in grams are offered yearly in all the of spreading the good news of garonstration gardens, garden tours, a mini-college experience termed Kansas City metropolitan counties. dening through the volunteer EMG basic training. After the training, and youth education. The mission Information about each program’s program. is to help people be successful in they assist Extension by helping requirements can be found by conEMG volunteers are friends and creating and maintaining a healthy, to deliver high-quality educational tacting your local county Extension neighbors who have a passion for programs. To remain active, EMG sustainable lawn and garden while office. Don’t know how to find 1/4 pg ad for March and April issues of KC Gardener magazine gardening and the love of teaching increasing property values and volunteers must donate volunteer your Extension office information? fellowand gardeners time as receive continuing It’s easy! Just search the internet 1/4and pglearning ad forwith March April issues ofwell KC as Gardener magazine being environmentally friendly. at all levels of interest. The EMG Kansas City is fortunate to education each year. using your county’s name, state have over 1,100 EMG volunteers and Extension. embracing the love of gardening Let’s celebrate this April by and volunteering. They are part getting into the garden and by recof the 86,000 EMG volunteers in ognizing our network of talented the United States. These dedicated Extension Master Gardener volungardeners donated approximately teers. These volunteers help us all 95,000 hours of volunteer service be better gardeners and enrich our in KC. Nationally, EMG volunteers gardening lives. Happy National gave 5.6 million hours of service. Gardening and Volunteer Month On average, a KC EMG volunteer EMGs for a job well done! donated 90 hours per year. This is where KC shines as the national Submitted by your Metro Extension average is 60 hours per volunteer. Horticulture Team: K-State Does the love of gardening, Extension – Douglas, Johnson, giving back to your communiLeavenworth, and Wyandotte ty and volunteering with fellow Counties and Missouri Extension – gardeners sound like fun? If so, Clay, Jackson and Platte Counties.
Paola Plant Sale 9 am to 5 pm
Thursday, Friday & Saturday
April 30, May 1 & 2
Pollinator Plants • Butterfly Host Plants Native Plants • Annuals • Perennials • Tropicals Edible Woody Perennials • Succulents • Veggies Hanging Baskets • Combination Planters
Top Soil • Mulch • River Rock • Sand • Gravel Fireplace Materials • New & Used Brick • Pavers
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Take the Baptiste Drive exit off Hwy. 169 and turn west. The sale is in the Family Center parking lot.
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Create the Best Lawn on the Block Local turf expert MARK DEDONDER outlines the practices and procedures for a healthy, beautiful lawn. It’s Time to Create the Best Lawn on the Block This Year As the sun warms up the ground and your lawn begins to return to shades of green, you may be thinking about how to create a lush, weed-free lawn you and your family will happily enjoy throughout the warm spring, summer and fall months. If you want your lawn to look the best on the block, it’s time to put together a game plan to maximize its health and beauty for the entire year. The first thing you have to think about is the overall health of your yard. Is your yard as thick as you would like it to be? Remember, tall fescue does not spread across the lawn. It grows in clumps. So, to fill in thin or damaged areas, you NEED to seed. Do you think you need to seed your lawn? Whether
or not you will be seeding this spring will determine what type of products and techniques will be needed in the early parts of spring. Seeding your lawn? Delay treatments. If you plan on seeding, the key is to make sure you get good seedto-soil contact. The best methods for ensuring seed-to-soil contact is to lightly rake the seed into the loose soil of bare spots or use power tools like a power rake or verticutter, or an aerator for larger areas. In the turf professional world, we will always use one or both of these machines while seeding large areas. For small areas, using a Garden Weasel Cultivator can be useful if you are seeding by hand. If you are going to seed your lawn, you will want to avoid or delay most weed control prod-
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ucts. Crabgrass preventers should not be applied to areas where you want to seed, and dandelion controls should not be applied to seedlings until you have mowed it two times. Give your lawn some aerating love. While aerating can help incorporate your grass seed, it is also exceptionally beneficial to your lawn. The cores the aerator pulls from the soil helps the lawn in many ways. The open channels increase oxygen levels to the root system, increase water absorption and overall loosens hard, compacted soils. Even if you are not seeding, you should consider aerating your yard either in the spring or fall to improve the root system growth of your grass which will ultimately make your lawn more drought-tolerant, disease-resistant and healthier. Remove the weeds, make room for lush grass. The main objective of having a beautiful lawn is to have as few weeds as you possibly can while maximizing the amount of turfgrass throughout your lawn. The first defense against weeds is to make your yard as thick as possible with healthy turfgrass. Throughout the Midwest, you will have the most success using a cool-season type of turfgrass. My favorite grass seed to use is a Tall Fescue/Kentucky Bluegrass blend which contains 97% Tall Fescue and 3% Kentucky Bluegrass. The tall fescue will be
able to tolerate more drought stress over the summer months while the Kentucky Bluegrass will be able to fill in any thin or damaged areas with its underground spreading structures called rhizomes. If you are buying grass seed, I would always recommend buying your seed from a reputable nursery or lawn care business. Most grass seed for sale at big box stores are full of weed seeds, not to mention the fact that the varieties are usually not tested to be the best varieties that are suitable for our climate. Using quality grass seed could make or break the overall success of your lawn. It is critical. You must buy quality seed. The old adage is true, you get what you pay for. Quality, clean seed, that contains varieties that perform well in our climate will cost more, but be worth the results you will see. Fertilizing for growth. Once you have seeded your lawn, apply a starter fertilizer with no crabgrass preventer/pre-emergence herbicide. Pre-emergence herbicides can stunt the growth of your newly planted grass seed. The best time to seed your lawn in the spring would be around mid/late March or whenever temperatures have consistently stopped freezing. The earlier you seed your lawn in the spring, the more you allow your grass to grow and mature as much as it can before the summertime. The more mature your turfgrass and its root system is, the more likely it will be able to survive the
hot summer temperatures we typically see in June, July and August. The latest I would seed in the spring would be late April. Watch for diseases, keep your lawn healthy. One thing I always mention to my customers is the probability of increased susceptibility of your lawn to disease in the summertime. The months of June, July and August can find you fighting off diseases for a variety of reasons — increased watering, increased density of the lawn, and the immature nature of your new grass. All coolseason grass types are susceptible to getting a disease, no matter the maturity, but the chances increase substantially with grass that hasn’t been actively growing for a couple of seasons. If you are seeding your entire lawn in the spring, I would plan on using preventive fungus controls on your lawn during the summer months. Again, like a high-quality seed, high-quality fungicide products that perform the best in our climate will always cost more compared to some other lawn products. That extra expense can be intimidating, but it is still less expensive long-term and less labor-intensive to use a fungicide to protect your newly seeded lawn than having to reseed your lawn in the fall because your seedlings died from fungal attack.
at times with all of the different treatments and problems that may arise throughout the year. If you ever need help, don’t hesitate to call a lawn care professional to meet with you and come up with a specifically tailored program that will help you have the best looking lawn on the block!
Mark DeDonder has worked as a turf manager at Ryan Lawn and Tree since 2013. He went to Kansas State University and has a bachelor’s degree in horticulture with an emphasis in landscape design. His passion is working outdoors and educating people on the art and science of maintaining a healthy lawn.
Plants & Pumpkins Due to a major reconstruction project in our large greenhouse, we will offer ONLY vegetable and herb starter plants and these and other tropical best sellers available for spring 2020. Don’t forget your carryover Friends of the Farm loyalty points from 2019.
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Don’t need seeding this year? Follow this plan. Now, if you are happy with how your lawn looks and you do not have to seed, then the first lawn application that needs to be applied to your lawn is a spring fertilizer plus a crabgrass preventer. Purchase a slow-release fertilizer that will spoon-feed your grass throughout the spring months. The pre-emergence herbicide, coupled with your thick, healthy turf will help protect your lawn from invading grassy weeds such as crabgrass and foxtail. Remember, pre-emergent treatments only protect against grassy weeds and not broadleaf weeds like dandelions or clover. If you have broadleaf weeds growing in your lawn, you will have to treat those weeds with a post-emergent herbicide to get rid of them. The most commonly seen broadleaf weeds we see in the springtime are dandelions, chickweed, clover and broadleaf plantain. Granular weed-
and-feed products can control some but not all broadleaf weeds. Liquid products can be more uniformly applied and give better control of troublesome weeds. If you are uncomfortable with spraying weeds or do not know what to buy or use, call a professional to help! Lawn care is both an art and a science. It can be very confusing
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17701 S. State Route D (Holmes Rd.) Belton, MO 64012 • 816-331-1067 The Kansas City Gardener | April 2020
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Edible Native Plants that Deer Loathe Local horticulture expert, TRACY FLOWERS identifies edible flowers that are loathed by deer.
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moved last year and like any good gardener, was immediately smitten with a wild pawpaw patch in the adjacent greenspace next to the house. None of the bathrooms were fully functional, but it’s a lot easier to fix a toilet than it is to start a good stand of pawpaws. I couldn’t sign the deed fast enough. This greenspace is also home to at least a dozen deer, so this got me thinking about what edible native plants I could bring to the landscape that a deer wouldn’t touch. It is possible. So here are a few that I recommend if you have hungry, white-tailed neighbors. Pawpaw (Asimina triloba) Everything about this small tree would make you think that wildlife is salivating, just waiting to take a
bite of the delicious tropical flavors of a pawpaw. It has the largest native fruit to North America and finding a good patch will make you feel like a kid in a candy store as the fruits dangle down and fall to the ground for easy picking. Pawpaws are easy to grow from seed for the patient gardener. They need to be moist cold stratified and they take a long time to emerge. About 4 months in the fridge and then at least a few more months in a deep pot of soil. Thankfully, there are many local native nurseries that now sell pawpaw trees ready to go straight into your garden. Clove Currant (Ribes odoratum) Clove currants tolerate poor soil, drought and full sun. When a plant is that easy to care for, I’m surprised that they aren’t in every
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Pawpaw
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yard in the city. The leaves are lobe-shaped and remind me of a cartoon duck foot. The 6-8’ shrub can be left wild and wooly, or pruned in late winter to promote more fruit. As the name suggests, there is a strong clove scent in the bright yellow flowers and the dark, juicy, black fruit can be eaten tart and fresh or preserved as a jam.
ferns and once planted in the garden, has the ability to reach 6 feet tall in optimal conditions.
Wild Bergamot (Monarda fistulosa) This perennial is sometimes listed as an herb or medicinal plant, but all parts above the ground are edible. As a member of the mint family, deer usually avoid all monarda because of the aroma that is released when they brush against it. The easiest way to enjoy wild bergamot is to dry the petals and use either in herbal tea or sprinkled on a salad to add a splash of taste and color. Ostrich Fern (Matteuccia struthiopteris) Plant deer resistant ostrich fern in a shady, moist part of the garden where their rhizomes have room to spread out. Every spring you will be rewarded with the delicacy of fresh, homegrown fiddleheads to cook for dinner. Ostrich fern is more tolerant to a wider range of soil pH than other
Wild or Meadow Garlic (Allium canadense) Chances are, if you have deer, you have space for wild garlic. Bees and other pollinator insects will love visiting the pink clusters of flowers in early summer. You will love the ability to grow an edible herb that is so drought tolerant. The grassy foliage of wild garlic will only get about 1 foot tall, and will tolerate light shade, so it is a good plant for transitioning from wooded areas to sunnier spots. There is an old saying in the gardening world, “right plant right place.” Sometimes we have to come to terms with the flip side of that with, “plant the right plants for the conditions that you have.” So I won’t be having roses, hosta or daylilies. Boo Hoo! Bring on more pawpaws! Tracy Flowers runs a horticultural consultancy business in Kansas City. Her current garden passions are native plants, edible flowers and Japanese gardening. Any questions about this article can be answered at kctracyflowers@ gmail.com.
Journaling your garden JUDY PENNER reminds us to document garden seasons.
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s gardeners, we have gained much knowledge simply from spending time in our gardens. But how many of you have tried to journal about your garden during the year? I always have good intentions with my journal, starting with much enthusiasm in the spring. But inevitably I get busy and the journaling stops, leaving gaps that would have provided more accurate information on what was really happening in the garden. In the Midwest, spring weather is ever changing and documenting conditions gives us valuable information, allowing us to know what our plant needs in terms of fertilizer and how long it may take plants to leaf out and bloom based on the weather. There are vast amounts of information on the internet and in books, but keeping your own journal, will be much more accurate and fun.
Journaling your garden, reveals relationships between plants. An example would be when the forsythia blooms, it is signaling that it is time to cut back the roses. Trees, also give us signals to what is happening weather wise. The Black Walnut tree, is typically the first to lose its leaves in the fall, so that is a sign that fall is on its way. The Black Walnut tree is also the last tree to produce its leaves in the spring, indicating the cold temperatures are gone and the warmer weather is here to stay. So this year I start anew with my journal and encourage you to journal your garden as well. You do not need an elaborate book for this. You just need an inexpensive composition book to write down your garden observations. Remember to Stop and Smell the Roses! Judy Penner is Expert Rosarian at Loose Park, Kansas City, Mo. You may reach her at judy.penner@ kcmo.org.
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actus and Succulents are certainly a hot topic for gardeners today. The public is welcome to hear several national speakers and buy succulents, cactus and pottery at the Mid States event held at the Stoney Creek Hotel and Conference Center, 18011 Bass Pro Drive, Independence, Missouri 64055, June 11-14. The partial speaker’s list includes Wendell Minnich, owner of Cactus Data Plants in New Mexico; Rob Wallace, Iowa State University professor of biology and botany; Jackson Burkholder from Colorado, talking about photographing cactus and succulents; Guillermo Rivera talking about an exploratory trip to northwestern Argentina and Peru presenting information about cacti and suc-
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culents and Kathy Slesinger conducting a demonstration on cactus/succulent bonsai. Succulent and cactus vendors from Oklahoma, Texas, Colorado and New Mexico will be selling a wonderful collection of plants in addition to pottery vendors. Vendor hours are Friday and Saturday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Go to www.kccactus.com for the registration form. The early full registration conference fee, including the Saturday evening banquet and rare plant auction is $125 if postmarked by May 12 or $150 after that. You may also purchase only a one day session for $50 each for Friday and Saturday, Sunday for $30 and the Saturday evening banquet and rare plant auction for $30. For additional questions, call 816-444-9321 or 913-742-0670.
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The Kansas City Gardener | April 2020
15
Baltimore Oriole Local birding expert, NIK HIREMATH talks about attracting Baltimore Orioles to your backyard.
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with a solid-black head and one white bar on their black wings. Females and immature males are yellow-orange on the breast, grayish on the head and back, with two bold white wing bars. They’re often found in wooded areas, but not in the deep woods. You’ll also see them in parks, orchards, around forest edges, trees along riverbanks (riparian) and of course in your backyard. Along the Missouri and Kansas border the Baltimore Oriole’s range overlaps with its close relative the Bullock’s Oriole, and the two species breed with each other. Their hybrid offspring is brighter orange than a typical Bullock’s, but duller than a typical Baltimore. The Baltimore Oriole winters in Central and northern South America and usually arrives in the
e have all seen a variety of beautiful or interesting birds in various settings, but when it happens in your own backyard, it seems more special, almost as though we’ve been rewarded with a special gift from nature. Many people get this enjoyment each year from their first Oriole sighting at their feeding station. When we saw our first Oriole at home, our reaction was of disbelief at first, followed by 20 or 30 out of focus, poor quality pictures with an iPhone. We were thrilled that we’d gotten this beautiful bird to visit our feeder – Success! If you’re looking for them, look high up in the deciduous trees where they’re looking for insects and fruits. They’re smaller and slenderer than a Robin. Adult males are flame-orange and black,
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Kansas City area mid-April. Their breeding grounds range throughout central and eastern United States and even into the lower territories of Canada. They’re early to migrate south after breeding, sometimes as early as late July. The female is known for her intricate nest building skills. The nests are built high in the tree and suspended above water’s edge if possible. It can take up to a week for her to build the nest and a prior year’s nest is rarely re-used but can be harvested to build a new nest. The Baltimore Oriole only has one brood a year of 3 to 7 eggs. Only the female incubates the eggs, but both parents will feed the newborns, which fledge in a few weeks after birth. Orioles are known to be insect eaters and they also consume a fair amount of very ripe fruit and nectar. They’ll even eat hairy caterpillars which many other birds avoid. It’s their appetite for caterpillars which benefits the trees from which they’re picking them.
They’re usually attracted to backyard feeders which hold oranges, or feeders that offer grape jelly, or that offer a sugar nectar made with a 1 to 6 ratio of sugar and water. They do seem to like to eat very early in the day, before sunrise, so we make sure our feeders are full at that time for them. The Baltimore Oriole bird shares its name with the city of Baltimore and its baseball team. They all receive their name from the Baltimore family of England whose family herald crest features black and orange. The Baltimore family was one of the early administrators of the state of Maryland. This spring, take a chance and put out an orange, cut in half, or an open dish with grape jelly and see if you’re able to attract this striking bird to your backyard. Nik and Theresa Hiremath own and operate Wild Birds Unlimited of Leawood at 11711 Roe Avenue, Leawood, Kansas. Contact them at 913-491-4887.
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Many MDC scientist collaborated to produce an updated Wetland Planning Initiative to guide management of Missouri’s public wetlands for birds and other wildlife. Research projects undertaken from 2012 to 2016 revealed which marsh bird species utilize our wetlands in different seasons and which habitat types they prefer. This presentation explores how these findings shape management decisions that will allow our public lands to support a full suite of wetland-dependent bird species in the face of ongoing habitat loss. See https://burroughs.org/ for more information.
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The Kansas City Gardener | April 2020
17
Top Perennials for Shade Gardens CHELSEA DIDDE RICE shares her top perennial choices for Midwest shade gardens.
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hen considering perennials for sunny areas, the choices seem endless and it’s easy to select a winning combination. Shade gardens are a whole different story and always present an intriguing challenge when friends and family ask for ideas to perk up shady areas under trees and add color to the north side of their houses. The perennial plants outlined below do well in areas with zero to four hours of direct sun, though they generally prefer at least an hour.
and a gently widening habit. The variety ‘Jack Frost’ will be joining my garden this season. Pros: Does well in shade containers, has delicate blue blooms in late spring Cons: Occasionally damaged by slugs and snails Ajuga This ground-hugging shade perennial does a wonderful job of covering bare soil and providing a living mulch around taller plants. Pros: Six-inch-tall purple blooms appear in May Cons: May be invasive if not monitored
Hosta Hostas are an obvious choice for a shade garden. They’re inexpensive, tough and come in a wide variety of sizes. Color choices include green, blue-green and white. Pros: Long lived, can be divided and shared with friends when the clump grows too large, not picky about soil type, typically inexpensive Cons: Sometimes affected by slugs and snails Heuchera Heuchera always look right at home at the front of a flower bed, in my opinion. These fun, colorful plants are semi-evergreen (which provides some winter color) and can fit into almost any landscape design. Pros: Available in many colors Cons: Susceptible to crown rot in wet soils Hellebore One of the longer-living perennials on this list, hellebores start small and slowly expand year-after-year into a glorious clump. In addition to being long-lived, they’re one of the first flowers to bloom in my early spring garden, often well before the daffodils, which feeds my winter-weary soul more than I can express. Pros: Semi-evergreen foliage Cons: Can be expensive, clumps slowly expand in size 18
April 2020 | kcgmag.com
Brunnera Jack Frost Siberian Bugloss Astilbe Astilbe can be challenging to grow when the Midwest summer heats up and the drought of August hits, but if you can plant them in a place that’s naturally moist or provide regular supplemental water, this plant is absolutely worth it. The variety “Visions” is a classic choice. Pros: Blooms attract and feed pollinators Cons: Quick to scorch if not given the proper growing conditions Brunnera Another pick for a moist area, brunnera is an underrated shade plant with heart shaped leaves
Along with those listed, there are a few other perennial plants I gravitate toward when planning a shade or part shade garden: hakenochloa, tiarella, lamium, lily of the valley (can be invasive), ferns, bleeding hearts, pulmonaria, pachysandra and alchemilla. Finally, let’s take a moment to address a common belief that certain plants prefer shade when they’re really just tolerating it. For example, I used to believe that all hydrangeas required shade and would burn in more than part shade. Over the years I’ve learned this to be untrue and, depending on the variety and watering frequency, I now plant certain varieties of hydrangea in areas with nearly full sun! I’m not suggesting to plant hostas or heuchera in full sun — I’m just recommending that you do a bit of research (or ask a garden center employee) and consider the best plant for each situation. By selecting the best plant, you’re one step closer to a calming shade garden oasis! When Chelsea Didde Rice isn’t at work as a senior communications specialist, she is an avid gardener who enjoys teaching people how easy it can be to garden. You may contact her with questions by email to chelseadidde@gmail.com.
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Hosta ‘Autumn Frost’ The Kansas City Gardener | April 2020
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Frequently Asked Butterfly Questions
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’ve been actively proselytizing for Butterflies since 2005 and every year more butterfly gardeners join the movement to help these beautiful insects. Beginners ask the same questions, so a review of the most common questions may be helpful. I have flowers, so why no butterflies? Problem-solving starts with “When are you looking for butterflies?” You won’t see many butterflies until late May/early June because it takes time for them to wake up from their winter slumber and start families, or to migrate back to Kansas and Missouri from warmer climates. August and September are the best months to see clouds of butterflies in your garden.
Do you have caterpillar host plants? Adult butterflies can’t eat; all the eating is done by the caterpillars and each butterfly species eats a different plant. You choose which butterflies are in your yard by which host plants you provide. Google the butterfly to learn which plant will support that species. For example: Monarch caterpillars need Milkweeds; Black Swallowtails need parsley or other members of the carrot family; Fritillaries need Violets, etc. At least part of your garden must be in full sun. Butterflies need nectar-rich flowers that have a flat surface so they can land and balance in the wind. Only shallow flowers will do. Your beautiful lilies are of no use to butterflies whose short tongues can’t reach the nectar.
Photos by Lenora Larson.
Butterfly maven, LENORA LARSON, answers frequently asked questions about butterflies.
If your flowers aren’t hosting other pollinators, you need to investigate (Two-spotted Longhorn Bee on Verbena bonnariensis). Do you see bees and other pollinators on your flowers? If there are no other pollinators, perhaps your chosen flowers are sterile hybrids, lacking nectar and/or pollen. Start introducing native plants and oldfashioned heirloom flowers. The worse-case scenario: spraying of insecticides has killed the pollinators. Do not believe the assurances that spraying for mosquitoes does not kill butterflies and bees. Even finely-aerosolized insecticides
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April 2020 | kcgmag.com
My caterpillars disappeared. Those Dirty Birds! Most likely, your caterpillar reached its full growth and has wandered off to become a butterfly. Most species wander about
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harm all insects. And beware of buying flowering plants that have been treated with Neonicotinoids. Your pollinators will be poisoned as they eat the toxic pollen and nectar.
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Properly Dispose Hazardous Products
ocused on environmental responsibility, gardeners are likely to recycle garden debris into the compost pile, or leave it for pickup at the curb. But what about garden products that are unused, outdated, and considered hazardous? If you’re cleaning out the garden shed or garage, and it’s time to dispose of old herbicides, fertilizers, stains and paints, what do you do with them? There are regional household hazardous waste collection facilities and are available for residents to safely dispose their household hazardous waste. A list of these locations, along with directions and hours of operation, is available on the Mid-America Regional Council web site (http://www.marc.org/Environment/SolidWaste/HHW/hhwfacilities. htm). Here’s an abbreviated list for easy reference.
Like many insects, Chinese Praying Mantids, eat adult butterflies and their caterpillars (Tiger Swallowtail).
In Missouri: Kansas City: 4707 Deramus; 816-513-8400 Lee’s Summit: 2101 SE Hamblen Road; 816-969-1805 In Kansas: Wyandotte County: 2443 S. 88th Street; 913-573-5400 Olathe: 1420 S. Robinson; 913-971-9311 Johnson County: Mission; 913-715-6900 Leavenworth County: 24967 136th St., Leavenworth; 913-727-2858 Miami County: 327th Street and Hospital Drive; 913-294-4117 Many of these locations operate by appointment only, so be sure to give them a call first. Thank you for properly disposing of hazardous materials and for protecting people, animals and landscapes of your community.
Great Spangled Fritillaries nectaring on Common Milkweed. A gathering of butterflies is called a “kaleidoscope” of butterflies. 24 hours to find the perfect spot to pupate. However, it’s time to play detective. Have you seen bird activity around your host plants? 97% of North American birds eat insects and caterpillars are the main menu item for songbird nestlings. Have you seen predatory insects such as wheel bugs, praying mantids or wasps near your host plants? What to do? You can intervene by placing a mesh bag around the host plant’s leaves to protect a caterpillar. Or you can raise the caterpillar indoors. However, since caterpillars are an important part of the food chain, many butterfly gardeners choose to just relax and let nature follow its course. Natural predators are not the cause of our butterflies’ shrinking populations. Butterflies have far more to fear from human activities like habitat destruction and insecticide spraying. Isn’t Tropical Milkweed bad for Monarchs? Why do lies persist longer than the truth? Experts, including Dr.
Chip Taylor at Monarch Watch, have repeatedly refuted this false assertion. No, Tropical Milkweed (Asclepias curassavica) does not prevent or delay migration because absence of food is not the trigger for the southward migration. And since Tropical Milkweed does not survive our winter, the Monarch parasite called “OE” does not survive to infect next year’s Monarchs. Regional milkweeds are always the best choice, but Tropical Milkweed is a favorite with both gardeners and Monarchs for many good reasons. Lenora welcomes questions about butterflies. Contact her at lenora.longlips@gmail.com Marais des Cygnes Extension Master Gardener, Idalia Butterfly Society and Kansas Native Plant Society member, Lenora Larson gardens and hosts butterflies in the cruel winds and clay soil of Paola, Kansas. She may be contacted at lenora.longlips@gmail.com. The Kansas City Gardener | April 2020
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April Showers bring May Rain Gardens
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ain gardens are like miniature natural wetlands full of native plants. They slow down, capture, and absorb water into the ground, reducing runoff that can overload streams and cause and flooding. Runoff can also carry sediment, lawn chemicals, and other substances that can impair waterways–but rain gardens trap them, protecting water quality. Rain gardens full of native plants work for wildlife too, providing food for pollinating bees and hungry caterpillars that are critical food for baby birds. Birds need more native plants in gardens to feed caterpillars that feed baby
birds, says Doug Tallamy, entomology professor at the University of Delaware. He says that our neighborhoods need 70% native plants for successful nesting. A good way to achieve this is with native trees like swamp white and chinquapin oaks. They are excellent replacements for ash that die from emerald ash borer. They are also tolerant of a wide array of urban soil conditions including clay and concrete. Another good way to support wildlife in rain gardens is by planting native wetland plants like rose turtlehead (Chelone obliqua), orange cone-
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Photos by Scott Woodbury.
Native plant guru, SCOTT WOODBURY reviews native wetland plants and their usefulness in rain gardens.
SWT Design rain garden flower (Rudbeckia fulgida var. umbrosa), blueflag iris (Iris virginica), and yellow fox sedge (Carex annectans). These wetland plants can tolerate both wet and dry soil moisture and are long-lived perennials. Rain gardens make sense because they reduce the amount of water carried by conventional stormwater infrastructure. When rain is funneled into a pipe, it even-
tually daylights with great force and volume into detention areas or a creek. When detention areas fill up, they eventually overflow into creeks as well. The same thing happens with lawns. When rain falls on mowed grass, it flows quickly over the surface, gathering volume and speed as it moves downhill, often carrying sediment and other contaminants with it. As the flow enters a creek or detention area,
Koi Pond and Water Feature Designs
New Installations, Remodels Upgrades, Repairs and
Head outside to encounter buds, blossoms, and bulbs during our inaugural springtime festival celebrating the landscape newly abloom 22
April 2020 | kcgmag.com
Maintenance Services Wendy Hix • 913.481.5416 Tate Foster • 913.406.6804 www.hixandsonaquatics.com
Tulip Time 2020
J Creve Coeur rain garden the force of the water can cause erosion. Rain gardens are like big bowls that catch some of the stormwater and hold it back long enough for water to percolate into the soil. This happens with the aid of plant roots because water follows root pathways down into the ground. The deeper the roots, the quicker and deeper the water moves downward. Lawns do a poor job of water infiltration because turf grass roots are extremely shallow. Native wetland plants do a great job of this because they tolerate flooding when it rains and drought when it’s dry. They are the perfect rain garden plants. To build a rain garden, figure out how much impermeable surface you can reasonably capture. Sources include roof (via downspout), sidewalk, patio, lawn, or driveway areas. Ran gardens need to be at least 10 to 15 feet away from a building foundation. They must be downhill from the source of water. To get water from the source to the rain garden, water may be conveyed over-ground through a bioswale or belowground in flexible drainage tubing (4 or 6 inch) available at hardware stores. A bioswale is a shallow “ditch” that is cut into the yard less than six inches deep and two to three feet wide leading from the water source to the rain garden. It is planted with native rain garden plants and typically mulched with three-inch or larger gravel (rock) to prevent erosion. Remember, bioswales are intended to have flowing rainwater in them so be sure they are heading downhill and the soil is protected with three-inch minimum gravel or cobble. On average, small rain gardens are six to eight inches deep
and about 10 by 15 feet in size (150 square feet). Where water enters the rain garden (via downspout, pipe or bioswale) three-inch cobble or small boulders are used to dissipate the force of moving water. Where water exits the rain garden (spillway), similar care must be taken to prevent soil erosion. Spillways should be directed to the adjacent street, alley, or natural drainage and not toward neighboring buildings. A single rain garden in a city of thousands of people is like a drop in the bucket. That is why some communities offer funding to residents to offset costs of construction native garden gardens. In St. Louis, the Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District (MSD) is offering small grants through Project Clear, a residential program that funds small rain gardens, turf alternatives, permeable paving and rain barrels in St. Louis. To see if your home qualifies, visit MSD’s Project Clear website. In Johnson County, Kansas, the Contain the Rain program offers a refund of up to 50% of rain garden installation and material cost. Learn more at www.containtherainjoco.com, Horticulturist Scott Woodbury is the Curator of the Whitmore Wildflower Garden at Shaw Nature Reserve in Gray Summit, MO, where he has worked with native plant propagation, design, and education for 28 years, and which is supported by the Missouri Department of Conservation. He also is an advisor to the Missouri Prairie Foundation’s Grow Native! program. Find suppliers of native plants for rain gardens at www. grownative.org, Resource Guide.
erold Binkley Tulip Time 2020 is set for April 10-26. The event features more than 100,000 tulips in Shawnee County Parks + Recreation’s three featured gardens – Ted Ensley Gardens at Lake Shawnee, Old Prairie Town/ Ward-Meade Botanical Garden and Doran Rock Garden and surrounding areas in Gage Park. For 2020, the event will once again be named for its founder, Jerold Binkley who passed away during Tulip Time in 2019. A ribbon cutting will be held during the Tulip Festival at the Lake April 11 to dedicate a special section of Ted Ensley Gardens in Mr. Binkley’s honor. There are two special events in addition to regular self-guided tours through the gardens. Tulips at Twilight features 35 lighted displays with more than 40,000 tulips illuminated by candle light and lighted displays. The displays include 15-foot tall illuminated tulips and larger-than-life illumi-
nated flowers, illuminated mushrooms tall enough for patrons to walk beneath them, rivers of blue lights and floating lanterns in the Asian garden. Patrons may enjoy live music and Old Prairie Town building tours on Friday and Saturday evenings. Tulips at Twilight is set for 7-10 p.m. April 10-26. Admission is a $5 donation with children five and under free. Tulip Time Festival the Lake is set for April 11 at Ted Ensley Gardens at Lake Shawnee. The event is from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. A $5 donation is suggested for the day which features classic cars, food trucks and musical performances. This year, since the event is the day before Easter, there will be an egg hunt for children. Guided tours for groups of 15 or more with advance reservations are available at Ted Ensley Gardens (785) 251-6800 and Old Prairie Town/Ward-Meade Botanical Garden (785) 251-6989.
Missouri Wildflowers Nursery 573-496-3492, fax: 573-496-3003
www.mowildflowers.net mowldflrs@socket.net 9814 Pleasant Hill Rd Jefferson City MO 65109
As of March 16 we are still planning to be in the KC area at these locations. Watch our website or social media for updates. Give us your order by Tuesday before a sale, and we will bring it to the location. Anita B. Gorman Conservation Discovery Center, 4750 Troost Ave. KC MO 64110 Missouri Prairie Foundation Native Plant Sale, grownative.org April 18 & May 23, 9:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. Shawnee Indian Mission, 3403 West 53rd St, Fairway KS 66205, Shawnee Indian Mission Foundation Plant Sale 913-262-0867, simfoundation.org April 25, 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. Backyard Bird Center, 6212 NW Barry Road, KC MO 64154, Native Plant Sale by Burroughs Audubon, Backyard Bird Center 816-746-1113, April 25, 9:30 a.m. - 2 Westport Garden Club Native Plant Sale. Kansas City Community Gardens, 6917 Kensington Ave, KC MO 64132 (Swope Park), May 2, 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. Deep Roots Native Plant Sale, Franklin Park, Roe & Somerset, Prairie Village KS 66208 deeprootskc.org, Sarah@deeproots.org May 16, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
We’re open week days, year round at the nursery (9814 address above), and weekends now until July 5.
The Kansas City Gardener | April 2020
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Private gardens opened for public viewing during popular Kansas City garden tour
F
ive private gardens are opened to the public during the Johnson County K-State Research and Extension Master Gardener Public Garden Tour, scheduled to be held May 15 and 16. Kansas City’s premier garden tour is an opportunity to get up close and personal with some of the most beautiful private gardens in Kansas City. Each garden is owned and maintained by an Extension Master Gardener. The gardens are selected for their individual qualities and personalities with something for every taste. These five gardens are nestled in the heart of Johnson County and their close proximity makes this a fun outing. Themes for the garden are:
Padley Garden
Bergmann Garden
Faulkner Garden An Artful Gardener Come and see this artist’s playful and charming garden featuring one-of-a-kind art pieces blended lovingly with beautiful plantings. The use of space, color, texture and balance highlight her talents both as an artist and as a gardener. Bergmann Garden Woodland Possibilities Is shade your thing? Is grass not growing under those mature trees? Looking for new and creative ideas to landscape your shady garden spot? Step out of the sun and see how refreshing a shade garden can be! Padley Garden Serenity at the Water’s Edge Upon entering this exquisite landscape, the design talent of the garden owner will immediately be evident. A waterfall, unique metal gazebo, thriving plants and a lovely pond as a backdrop will be sure to impress! Reichel Garden Botanical Elegance Elegance greets you at this lovely gem inspired by the picturesque European gardens. With enchanting fountains and perfectly 24
April 2020 | kcgmag.com
Reichel Garden
Householder Garden
Faulkner Garden
placed plantings, this gifted garden owner will have you in awe of her landscape design talent.
and a tour favorite, one-of-a-kind sand-casted leaves. New for this tour is a native plant sale featuring locally grown plants from Vinland Valley Nursery. This tour is popular because the owners are passionate about gardening and have transformed suburban lots into their personal oasis. The garden owners and Extension Master Gardener volunteers will be on-hand to answer questions. Visitors receive information about the garden’s development, along with educational tips to take home and incorporate into their own landscapes. Photography is encouraged.
This popular event is only held every other year. Tour tickets for this springtime, rain-or-shine event are $18 before April 16 and $20 after. Tickets are available through Johnson County Extension and online. Starting in May, tickets can also be purchased at any Johnson County Hen House Market, Family Tree Nursery, Suburban Lawn and Garden, and Kansas Grass Pad locations. Tickets will be available at the gardens during tour days. Maps and directions are provided with each ticket. To learn more, take a virtual tour at www. johnson.k-state.edu or call (913) 715-7000.
Householder Garden Countryside Collection Enter this garden and experience what it’s like to leave the city behind and escape to the country. Raised beds with veggies and herbs and a cozy firepit are few of the unique features that you will enjoy here. Don’t miss the garden boutique at the Householder Garden. Extension Master Gardener volunteers have created unique garden gifts, including fairy houses, handpainted silk scarves, steppingstones
Powell Gardens in April Docent-Led Tour: Spring Up! Sunday, April 5, 2 p.m. | Free with general admission Join docent Margaret Smith-Wisker on a guided tour through the David T. Beals Woodland & Stream Garden to discover and notice what early-spring ephemerals are starting their spring sojourn. Meet in the Visitor Center lobby for this walking experience to locate early blooms in the garden. Bloom Fest: Head Outside April 11 – May 10 | Daily Head outside to encounter buds, blossoms, and bulbs during our inaugural springtime festival celebrating the landscape newly abloom. Enjoy a walk through the Gardens and greet some friendly new faces – a collection of custom-built planters in the form of monumental human heads! At six feet tall and with coifs uniquely planted and styled with colorful spring favorites, this artful installation will bring whimsy and fun to the joy of celebrating a fresh new season. Return visits over the four-week festival will reward you, as more than 100,000 bulbs planted across the Gardens awake and join our panoramic symphony of blooms. Tickets: https://25043p. blackbaudhosting.com/25043p/tickets?tab=3&txobjid=05ac7332-bf23486d-b2b2-04de4030e526 SAGES: Spring has Sprung Thursday, April 16, 10:30 a.m. - 12 p.m. | $35 (Members receive 10% off) Location: Powell Gardens Visitor Center, Multi-Purpose Room Instructor: Susan Mertz, Director of Horticulture Join Powell Gardens Director of Horticulture, Susan Mertz, for a short illustrated talk and brief walking tour to identify and discover often overlooked short blooming spring plants. Some are native to Missouri, some are unique bulbs that bloom briefly, and some will be familiar favorites. Learn about these varieties and then explore the garden to seek and meet them in person. A box lunch follows the short walk. Tickets: https://25043p.blackbaudhosting.com/25043p/sages-spring-has-sprung Work & Learn: Craft Cocktails Saturday, April 18, 12-3 p.m. | $35 (Members receive 10% off) Instructors: Haley Drake, Heartland Harvest Garden and Cherly Bisbee, Till Vodka Location: Powell Gardens Visitor Center, Multi-Purpose Room Get the goods on great herbs to plant for use in some fabulous cocktails! Learn design and proper plant care for creating and sustaining a cocktailfriendly garden by working with Powell Gardens staff to plant large herb containers for the Gardens. Imbibe with a drink demonstration, plant a small herb container, and receive drink recipes to take home. This workshop is presented in partnership with Till Vodka and Boozy Botanicals. Tickets: https://25043p.blackbaudhosting.com/25043p/work--learn-craft-cocktails
Plant an Impact: Earth Day Weekend 2020 Saturday, April 18 and Sunday, April 19, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Festival Admission Applies | Members are Free Make a positive environmental impact and enjoy the outdoors by celebrating Earth Day 2020 at Powell Gardens. Individuals, families, environmental groups, Girl Scouts, and Cub Scouts are invited to help Powell Gardens staff restore native prairie landscape to better support pollinator species. Participants will learn about the importance of planting native species in their homes and communities and how native plants support wildlife. Many of the activities satisfy requirements for Cub Scouts’ Grow Something and Into the Wild badges and Girl Scouts’ Gardener and Eco Friend badges. Please sign up large groups at least one week in advance. Tickets: https://25043p.blackbaudhosting.com/25043p/ tickets?tab=3&txobjid=05ac7332-bf23-486d-b2b2-04de4030e526 Missouri Life Market Fair Saturday, April 25 and Sunday, April 26, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Festival Admission Applies | Members are Free Join the best craftsman, brewers, distillers, artisans and winemakers Missouri has to offer at the second annual Best of Missouri Life Market Fair, planned in collaboration with Missouri Life Magazine. Peruse nearly 100 booths featuring clothing, decor, paintings, photography, sculpture and more and enjoy live entertainment while marveling at the spring show of daffodils and other early-bloomers in the Gardens. Food trucks and tastings available. Tickets: https://25043p.blackbaudhosting.com/25043p/ tickets?tab=3&txobjid=05ac7332-bf23-486d-b2b2-04de4030e526
Now booking for the 2020 season! As the seasons change so does the ambiance of your water feature. Whether it is colorful blooms in the summer or breathtaking ice sculptures in the winter, with a FOUR seasons water feature you can enjoy paradise 365 days of the year! After 25 years of being dedicated to transforming boring backyards into a one of a kind magical experience we have learned what makes a water garden paradise no matter the season. Let us create the backyard of your dreams this year! We back our water garden installations with a 5 year leak free guarantee!
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4385 W 247th St. Louisburg, KS Retail Open: Tues-Fri 9am-5pm Saturday 9am-4pm www.swanswatergardens.com
The Kansas City Gardener | April 2020
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Plants on Your Plate – Spinach DENISE SULLIVAN talks about nutritious food and preparing healthy meals, including asparagus.
W
hat image comes to mind when you hear the word ‘spinach’? Is it the bright green leafy salad so popular on springtime menus or a dark green stringy mass that appeared on your school lunch tray or dinner plate at grandma’s house? Unfortunately, the latter was my only exposure to spinach as a child, so you can imagine my skepticism, as a young adult, when encouraged to try the spinach salad (with fruit in it no less) at a ladies luncheon held at a quaint tearoom. Ahh…I still had so much to learn! Originating in Persia, spinach made its way to Spain around the 11th century and the rest of Europe during the 15th century. Early colonists brought it to America and spinach became a commonly used vegetable in the United States by
the early 19th century. Cookbooks of that era would give instructions for cooking spinach for 25 minutes, hence, the dark green mass that I preferred to avoid. There are three basic types of spinach, Savoy, semi-Savoy and flat leaf. Savoy, also called curly leaf spinach, has large, very dark crinkly leaves and is better suited
2020 Wyandotte County Extension Master Gardeners
Plant Sale Friday, May 1st, 9:00 a.m.– 5:00 p.m.
Saturday, May 2nd, 9:00 a.m.– 2:00 p.m.
for cooking. Semi-savoy is very similar, but the leaves tend to smaller and still somewhat crisp and crinkly. Flat leaf, which is the most popular in the United States, has smooth, tender, spade shaped leaves with a slightly sweet flavor. This is the most popular variety for raw uses like salads and smoothies. Baby spinach is flat leaf spinach picked in the early stages of growth. As a quick maturing, cool season leafy green, spinach is often one of the first garden gems to harvest in early spring. A member of the Amaranthaceae family, this leafy annual is a ‘cousin’ to beets, chard, and quinoa. Spinach ranks as one of the most nutrient-dense of all foods. At just 7 calories per uncooked cup, it is an excellent source of folate, and vitamins A, C, E, K, and B-6. Spinach is also a good source of iron, magnesium, riboflavin and potassium. This vast array of nutrients provide many benefits including reducing risk of heart disease and cancer and promoting eye health, wound heal-
Extension Office Wildcat Room— 1200 N. 79th Street, Kansas City, KS VEGETABLE PLANTS: Tomatoes, peppers, herbs & more grown by our Master Gardeners for this sale FLOWERS: Perennials grown by our Master Gardeners & Family Tree annuals
CASH & CHECKS ACCEPTED – NO CREDIT OR DEBIT CARDS
April 2020 | kcgmag.com
Denise Sullivan (@MUExtJackson Co) is a Nutrition and Health Education Specialist for MU Extension in Jackson County. For research-based nutrition and food safety information and programs, call 816-482-5850 or visit www. extension2.missouri.edu.
Berries and Greens Smoothie Calories: 223, Total Fat: 2g, Saturated Fat: 1.5g, Sodium: 128mg, Carbohydrates: 41g, Fiber: 5g, Protein: 9g
Wyandotte County K-State Research and Extension Office 1216 N 79th St. Kansas City, KS 66112 913-299-9300 https://www.wyandotte.k-state.edu/ Wyandotte County Master Gardeners
Kansas State University Agricultural Experiment Station and Cooperative Extension Service K-State Research and Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer. Kansas State University is committed to making its services, activities and programs accessible to all participants. If you have special requirements due to a physical, vision, or hearing disability, contact Lynn Loughary, Horticulture Extension Agent, 913-299-9300 ext. 104.
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ing, healthy blood pressure and protection from neural tube defects in a developing fetus. It is worth mentioning that the iron found in spinach is non-heme iron, which needs a high vitamin C helper such as citrus foods or strawberries. (Now that first spinach salad makes sense!) As healthful as spinach is, there are potential adverse effects, especially when consumed in large amounts. Because of the high vitamin K, it can interfere with blood thinning medication and clotting ability. In addition, the high levels of oxalic acid and calcium salts can interfere with mineral absorption and contribute to kidney stones in people who are at risk for developing them. As an adult, I may still politely pass when it comes to a plain vegetable side dish, especially if it resembles what I experienced in my early days. However, I have learned to enjoy spinach in a variety of ways…in a salad, in pasta dishes, in omelets and even a breakfast smoothie, like the recipe below. One thing I have learned is that I prefer blueberries or a berry blend, so that the darker purple colors can ‘win’ over the green of the spinach!
½ cup 100% cranberry juice ½ cup vanilla yogurt
Combine all ingredients in blender and blend until smooth. Makes 6 servings.
1 cup fresh spinach, packed ½ ripe banana (try freezing first) ½ cup frozen berry blend (blueberry, blackberry, strawberry) ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
Recipe adapted from Seasonal and Simple, analyzed by verywellfit.com
Master Gardeners’ Plant Sale in Paola Eco-friendly plants for garden sustainability
T
he trend toward gardening for wildlife and eco-sustainability shows no sign of letting up, so the annual plant sale in Paola will once again feature native plants, butterfly host plants and pollinator plants in addition to the ever-popular annuals and perennials. The sale will be held from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on April 30, May 1 and May 2 in the Family Center parking lot, 808 Baptiste Drive, in Paola. The timing is perfect for home gardeners who are ready to get outside and begin working in their 2020 gardens. The plants have been grown by local growers who do not use harmful chemicals, including Neonicotinoids. As always, Paola Plant Sale shoppers can be confident their eco-conscious purchases are safe for beneficial insects, and appropriate for Midwest clay soil and unpredictable weather conditions. Butterfly expert Lenora Larson will be on hand during the sale to answer questions and guide shoppers toward the best selections. Natives and Host Plants Steal the Show “We’ll have ten different varieties of Milkweed to host your Monarchs,” says plant sale chair Sondra Dela Cruz, “and Swallowtail host plants such as Spicebush, Pawpaws, Dutchman’s Pipe Vines, and so much more.” In addition to host and pollinator plants, shoppers will also find
Herbs planters and succulents will be available for purchase.
Great Spangled Fritilary male nectaring on Butterfly Weed. Their caterpillars eat violets and no other plant in the universe.
other native plants and perennials; edible woody perennials; colorful annuals for containers and bedding; tropicals and succulents; herbs and vegetable transplants for unbeatable homegrown taste; and gorgeous hanging baskets and planters for instant beauty and Mother’s Day gifts. Mark your calendar now, and save the last day of April and May 1-2 for the Paola Plant Sale. For more information contact the MdC Extension Office at 913-294-4306. Visit the website at www.maraisdescygnes.ksu.edu and follow us on Facebook at www.facebook. com/mdcemg.
to their larvae. In contrast, many of our favorite butterflies lay their eggs on a specific host plant for their caterpillars to eat. If there are no host plants, it is not a butterfly garden. However, some plants –
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such as Milkweeds and Sennas – are both great pollinator nectar sources and specific butterfly host plants (Monarchs and Sulphurs, respectively). —Lenora Larson
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Have a lawn and garden question for the Gard’n-Wise Guys? Go to Facebook and ask them your question. NOW AVAILABLE AT: Jacksons Greenhouse & Garden Center, Topeka v Doctors At the Lake, Lake of the Ozarks v Manns Lawn & Landscape, St. Joe v Gronis Hardware and Seed, Leavenworth v Clinton Parkway Nursery, Lawrence v Barnes Greenhouses, Trenton, MO v Soil Service Gdn. Center, Kansas City, MO v Loma Vista North, Kansas City, MO v Skinner Garden Store, Topeka v Full Features Nursery, Smithville v Springtime Garden Center, Lee’s Summit v Heartland Nursery, Kansas City, MO v Planter’s Seed, Kansas City, MO v Penrod’s Greenhouse, Kearney v North Star Garden Center, Liberty v Grimm’s Gardens, Atchison v Moffet Nursery, St. Joe v Suburban Lawn & Garden, Kansas City, MO
The Kansas City Gardener | April 2020
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Bird Facts
Upcoming Garden Events places to go, things to do, people to see
ED REESE talks about reasons to feed birds during summer.
B
irds that visit feeders during summer include species not present during winter. Depending on where you live, you may be visited by rose-breasted or black-headed grosbeaks as well as several species of orioles and hummingbirds that will be hundreds or thousands of miles away later in the year. During summer, birds that look drab during winter are sporting their colorful breeding plumage. Consider, for example, the bright yellow male goldfinches you see only during the warmer months. Once they’ve nested and their offspring have fledged, adult birds will introduce their young to your bird feeders and birdbaths. “I’ve seen fuzzy, rotund
baby chickadees, red-capped downy woodpecker young and spot-breasted American robin chicks, many begging for food from their overworked parents,” Harrison says. Warmer temperatures encourage closer viewing of backyard birds. If you regularly sit on a patio or deck, the birds at nearby feeders and baths will get used to you and go about their business while you watch them. “In my experience,” Harrison says, “there’s no better way to enjoy a summer day.” (Sourced from the National Wildlife Federation Blog) Ed and Karen Reese own and operate Wild Bird House, Overland Park, KS. Contact them at 913-341-0700.
One free, easy call gets your utility lines marked AND helps protect you from injury and expense. Safe Digging Is No Accident: “Always Call Before You Dig in Kansas” Call 811, 1-800-DIG-SAFE, (800-344-7233) or visit us at www.kansas811.com.
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April 2020 | kcgmag.com
ATTENTION: At the time of this printing, some events may have been cancelled or postponed. Confirm the event status before planning to attend. Club Meetings African Violet Club of Greater Kansas City Tues, Apr 14, 6pm; at Loose Park Garden Center, 52nd and Wornall Rd, Kansas City, MO. Membership. Visitors welcome. Bonsai Society of GKC Sat, Apr 18, 9am-12:30pm; at Loose Park Garden Center, 52nd and Wornall Rd, Kansas City, MO. Workshop. Info and Master Classes, visit www.bsgkc.org. Garden Club of Shawnee Thurs, Apr 2, 7pm; at the Town Hall at Shawnee Town 1929, 11600 Johnson Dr, Shawnee, KS. Master Gardener Judy Sharp will present her program “Drought-Tolerant Perennials.” Guests are welcome. Snacks will be provided and door prizes awarded. Please visit our website gardenclubofshawnee.org and our Facebook page for information about our club. Greater Kansas City Dahlia Society Sun, Apr 19, 1pm; at the Fern Room, Loose Park Garden Center, 52nd and Wornall Rd, Kansas City, MO. Everyone is welcome! You can find the Greater Kansas City Dahlia Society on Facebook www.facebook. com/pages/Greater-Kansas-CityDahlia-Society/174531619237937 Greater Kansas City Gardeners of America Mon, Apr 6, Social and refreshments at 6pm, Program 6:30pm; at Loose Park Garden Center, 52nd and Wornall Rd, Kansas City, MO. Presentation: Gardening in Containers. Container Gardens are for Different Situations. Few of us have the perfect yard, but some challenges do have solutions. If you desire an eye-candy flowering pot, or have no yard, little sun, challenging squirrels, questionable soil, limited mobility, want a plant not hardy to our winters, or just want
ONE tomato plant on your deck, this talk is for you! Our speaker will be Nancy Chapman, with the Johnson County Extension Master Gardener and Master Naturalist programs. Nancy has a degree in Agricultural Economics from K-State and has completed all the horticulture courses JCCC offered. She’s a Giving Grove Steward with the Kansas City Community Garden, helping plant and maintain fruit trees in lowincome areas around Kansas City. Guests welcome, no charge to attend. Questions contact: jolybe@outlook. com. Greater Kansas City Herb Study Group Wed, Apr 8, noon-2:30pm, at Rose Room, Loose Park Garden Center, 52nd and Wornall Rd, Kansas City, MO. Program: All About Sage. Presenter: Bonnie Graham Henning. Sage has so many incredible uses; from cough and cold prevention in herbal teas, to a delicious spice in food and as remedies for many female challenges. This plant will be discussed in its many forms: Salvia Officinalis to Salvia Sclarea and Salvia apiana along with their growing requirements, care, and harvesting methods. Bonnie will share her use of white or sacred sage that is native to the southwestern United States, and will talk about its use and the indigenous people of that area. She will present an all-encompassing overview of one of Americ’s favorite herbs. Lunch: Please bring sack lunch and water. Facebook: Check us out at Greater Kansas City Herb Study Group. Friends and visitors are always welcome. Questions: Call Lynn at 816-308-5450. Kansas City Cactus and Succulent Society Sun, Apr 19, 1:30-4pm; at Loose Park Garden Center, 51st St and Wornall Rd, Kansas City, MO. Visitors are welcome! For information on the Kansas City Cactus and Succulent Society, call 816-444-9321, visit kccactus.com.
Kansas City Garden Club Mon, Apr 6, 10:30am; at Loose Park Garden Center Building, 52nd and Wornall Rd, Kansas City, MO. Program is “Making Your Garden Buzz – Planting a Friendly Bee Garden” by Jeanette Hartshorn, Kansas City Master Gardener. Bring a sack lunch and join us for drinks and dessert furnished by club members after the meeting. Visitors are welcome. 913-636-4956 Leavenworth County Master Gardeners Wed, Apr 8, 11am; at Riverfront Community Center, 123 Esplanade St, Leavenworth, KS 66048. Betsy Betros, author of “A Photographic Field Guide to the Butterflies in the Kansas City Region,” will give a presentation on the butterflies of the Kansas City region. Betsy is retired from 35 years with the Johnson County Environmental Department. She has a BS in Entomology and an MS in Environmental Health Science. The meeting is free. Visitors are welcome. For more info contact Paula Darling at 913-240-4094. Lee’s Summit Garden Club Sun, Apr 19, 2pm; at Sylvia Bailey Park, 1800 Ransom Rd, Lee’s Summit, MO. Topic: Get Your Hands Dirty. Everyone is welcomed. Refreshments are always served. Call 816-913-3970 with questions. Raytown Garden Club Tues, Apr 7, 10am; at Blue Ridge Presbyterian Church, 6429 Blue Ridge Blvd, Raytown, MO. Our Club theme this year is “Grow Strong Roots; Grow Our Community”. We will have a brief presentation at the beginning of the meeting entitled “Bluebirds” by member Vickie Graham. Our program will be “Straw Bale Gardening”, a PowerPoint lecture with handouts, by Jared Pumphrey, Professional Landscape Architect. In keeping with our commitment to make our world a little better, we are switching from paper and Styrofoam cups to asking members and visitors to bring their own coffee cups or insulated hot/cold cups. We hope to help in a small way to eliminate some of our disposable waste that must be taken to a landfill. Check out our Facebook page at Raytown Garden Club or visit our website at https://sites.google.com/ site/fgcmwestcentral/clubs/raytown Santa Fe Trail Garden Club Wed, Apr 8, 10am-noon; at the JOCO Library-Oak Park Branch, Meeting Room, 9500 Bluejacket Dr, Overland Park, KS 66214. Business Meeting
follows by a program at 11am on “Champion Trees of the Overland Park Arboretum” by Jim Ernest. Get the skinny on these giants including cottonwoods, sycamores, oaks and hickories and where to find them at the Arboretum. Visitors welcome.
Safe Digging starts with
Events, Lectures & Classes April Caring for Roses Thurs, Apr 2, 6:30-7:30pm; at Clinton Parkway Nursery, 4900 Clinton Pkwy, Lawrence, KS 66047. Learn how to care for your roses; when and how to prune, fertilize, and general care. This workshop will be held outdoors with a demonstration (weather permitting). Workshop lasts an hour plus time for questions. FREE, but seating is limited, so please RSVP either by clicking on “going” on our Facebook page or call 785-842-3081. Handouts provided. Monarch Habitats Tues, Apr 7, 4pm; at Lansing Community Library, 730 1st Terr, Ste 1, Lansing, KS 66043. Patti Davis, a Leavenworth County Master Gardener, will present “Let’s Save the Monarchs, One Backyard at a Time”. Patti will give a presentation on how to make your backyard a Monarch Butterfly habitat. The meeting is free and open to the public. For more information contact Paula Darling at 913-240-4094. Native Food Trees and Shrubs for Humans and Wildlife Tues, Apr 7, 6:30-8pm; at Anita B Gorman Discovery Center Auditorium, 4750 Troost Ave, Kansas City, MO. Let your garden produce a bounty for your table, and help sustain your nature neighbors – without the need for synthetic chemicals and pesticides. Speaker Linda Hezel is Farm Steward at Prairie Birthday Farm, and her native edible plants find their way onto professional chef’s menus all over town. Learn why and how to include native edibles in your garden at this informative program. Advance tickets are required, reserve yours today. Cost: $5 per person. High Tunnels/Hoop Houses Wed, Apr 8, 7pm; at Basehor Community Library, 1400, 158th St, Basehor, KS 66007. Joy Kromer, a Leavenworth County Master Gardener, will present “High Tunnel/Hoop Houses: Extending the Growing Season for your Crops”. Joy will give a presentation on how (continued on page 30)
YOU
1
Call or Click 3 Working Days Before You Dig.
2
Wait the Required Amount of Time.
3
Confirm Utility Response.
4
Respect the Marks.
5
Dig with Care.
mo1call.com
1-800-DIG-RITE or 811 The Kansas City Gardener | April 2020
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Upcoming Garden Events places to go, things to do, people to see
ATTENTION: At the time of this printing, some events may have been cancelled or postponed. Confirm the event status before planning to attend. (continued from page 29)
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30
April 2020 | kcgmag.com
high tunnels/ hoop houses are a low cost season extension process for vegetables, fruits, herbs and flowers. The meeting is free and open to the public. For more information contact Paula Darling at 913-240-4094. Flower Gardening in Containers Thurs, Apr 9, 6:30-7:30pm; at Clinton Parkway Nursery, 4900 Clinton Pkwy, Lawrence, KS 66047. Learn how to grow flowers in containers. What varieties work best. What soil to use and how to care for them to a show stopper. This workshop will be held outdoors with a demonstration (weather permitting). Workshop lasts an hour plus time for questions. FREE, but seating is limited, so please RSVP either by clicking on “going” on our Facebook page or call 785-842-3081. Handouts provided. Sho-Me African Violet Club 36th Annual Show and Sale “Galaxies of Violets” Please call shortly before the Show date to learn if the event will be held or has had to be cancelled. Contact Steve and Brent 913-908-0700. Sat, Apr 11, 9am-3pm (Not open Sunday); at Loose Park Garden Center, W 51st St and Wornall Rd, Kansas City, MO 64112. Suggest not following GPS directions. Instead, follow this route: The Loose Park entrance is the West driveway immediately South of 51st St. The Garden Center side street is located just past the Pavilion (a right turn). Let us provide a colorful gift for upcoming celebrations – birthdays, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, anniversaries! Then brighten up your own home with a variety of plants and colorful blossoms. NO ADMISSION FEE. If further information is needed, call Brent Scheuerman 913-738-9955. TreeKeepers Tues-Thurs, Apr 14-16, 9am-1:30pm; at George Owens Nature Park, 1601 S Speck Rd, Independence, MO. Heartland Tree Alliance is offering a daytime course for anyone want-
ing to learn more about shade and ornamental trees. Learn about soils, biology, selection, pruning, ID, and planting. Classroom and hands-on learning taught by MDC Forester Chuck Conner. All tools provided, must register in advance, $50 fee. tinyurl.com/treekeepers2020 or call Sarah 816-561-1086. Creating a Pollinator Garden Thurs, Apr 16, 6:30-7:30pm; at Clinton Parkway Nursery, 4900 Clinton Pkwy, Lawrence, KS 66047. Learn how to care for your roses; when and how to prune, fertilize, and general care. This workshop will be held outdoors with a demonstration (weather permitting). Workshop lasts an hour plus time for questions. FREE, but seating is limited, so please RSVP either by clicking on “going” on our Facebook page or call 785-842-3081. Handouts provided. Monarch Habitats Thurs, Apr 16, 7pm; at Leavenworth Public Library, 417 Spruce St, Leavenworth, KS 66048. Patti Davis, a Leavenworth County Master Gardener, will present “Let’s Save the Monarchs, One Backyard at a Time”. Patti will give a presentation on how to make your backyard a Monarch Butterfly habitat. The meeting is free and open to the public. For more information contact Paula Darling at 913-240-4094. Go Native Sat, Apr 18, 9:30am-2:30pm; at Anita B Gorman Discovery Center, 4750 Troost Ave, Kansas City, MO 64110. Join us for a day of learning about the wide variety of native plants that can suit your landscaping needs. You will learn about and make a “seed ball” to get an easy head start on planting native seeds of grasses and flowers. You can also learn about native trees and how they can add long-lasting value and beauty to your landscape. We will be giving away free native plant and tree seedlings for you to take home and plant. We will offer guided landscape tours along with opportunities
to ask experts for advice on how to improve your landscape with native plants. There will be activities for the whole family! 816-759-7300; www. mdc.mo.gov/discoverycenter Native Plant Sale Sat, Apr 18, 9:30am-2:30pm; at Anita B Gorman Discovery Center, 4750 Troost Ave, Kansas City, MO 64110. The Missouri Prairie Foundation (MPF) will be on site to offer a native plant sale. Grow Native! vendors will be on hand with a wide selection of native flowers, grasses, sedges, shrubs and trees for a variety of growing conditions. Vendors will contribute a percentage of plant sale proceeds to benefit MPF’s prairie conservation in Missouri. Visit https://www.moprairie.org for participating vendors and information about preordering. Orchid Auction Sun, Apr 19, 2-4:30pm; at Lenexa Senior Center, 13420 Oak St, Lenexa, KS. The Orchid Society of Greater Kansas City annual fundraiser, an Orchid Auction. Free Admission. Non-auction plants will be available, starting at $5.00. For more information about our auction and society, visit www.osgkc.org. Landscaping for Birds Mon, Apr 20, 7-8:30pm; at Johnson County Extension Office, 11811 S Sunset Dr, Olathe, KS 66061. Presented by Colleen Winter, Johnson County Extension Master Gardener. Recent reports show that our bird population is declining worldwide. Loss of habitat and other factors are at blame. Helping to preserve birds can start right at home. This class will provide you with the resources and information you need to turn your landscape into a sanctuary for our feathered friends. Cost: $10 per person. Register at: johnson. ksu.edu or 913-715-7000. Gardening for Pollinators Tues, Apr 21, 6:30pm; at Extension Office, 104 S Brayman, Paola, KS 66071. Flowering plants and their pollinators began to co-evolve about 250 million years ago. Learn how flowers attract pollinators and how to help the pollinators survive in a changing world from Lenora Larson, butterfly expert and MdC EMG. For more info, call 913-294-4306, visit www.maraisdescygnes.ksu.edu, or follow www.facebook.com/mdcemg. Burroughs Audubon Society General Meeting Tues, Apr 21, 6:45pm; at Anita B Gorman Conservation Discovery
Center, 4750 Troost Ave, Kansas City, MO 64110. Conserving Missouri’s Wetland Birds: Some Recent Research Findings and Land Management Decisions. Doreen Mengel, Resource Scientist, Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC). Many MDC scientist collaborated to produce an updated Wetland Planning Initiative to guide management of Missouri’s public wetlands for birds and other wildlife. Research projects undertaken from 2012 to 2016 revealed which marsh bird species utilize our wetlands in different seasons and which habitat types they prefer. This presentation explores how these findings shape management decisions that will allow our public lands to support a full suite of wetland-dependent bird species in the face of ongoing habitat loss. See https://burroughs.org/ for more information. Plant Sale Apr 23-25. Thurs-Fri 10am-7pm, Sat 10am until sold out; at Colonial Church, 7039 Mission Rd, Prairie Village, KS. Sponsored by Overland Park Gardeners of America. Thyme For Kids Plant Sale Fri, Apr 24, 9am-6pm and Sat, Apr 25, 9am-5pm; at Cornerstones of Care Ozanam Campus, Sims Greenhouse, 421 E 137th St, Kansas City, MO. Open to the public and free to attend, most items cost between $2-$8, and proceeds from the sale support our Build Trybe program, a mentorship community building health and independence while empowering youth with employable skills. It is a bridge connecting youth who lack a stable support system to opportunity through 3 skill-based career paths: culinary, construction and horticulture. Choose from a wide variety of plants and other garden items! Houseplants, Dish Gardens, Readyto-Go Planters, Flowering Baskets, Annuals, Perennials, Ornamental Grasses, Foliage Accents, Herbs, Vegetables, Teacher Gifts, Mother’s Day Gifts. Cash, checks, and credit cards accepted. Questions? Contact Stefanie at stefanie.lindsay@cornerstonesofcare.org or learn more at cornerstonesofcare.org/plantsale. Warblers and Wildflowers Sat, Apr 25, 10-11am, 11:30amNoon or 1:30-2:30pm; at Anita B Gorman Discovery Center, 4750 Troost Ave, Kansas City, MO 64110. The last week of April is usually the most beautiful week in Missouri for spring wildflowers, blooming trees and shrubs. The native landscape at (continued on page 32)
SPRING PLANT SALE MAY 1-3
OVERLAND PARK ARBORETUM & BOTANICAL GARDENS
SPRING PLANT SALE
Learn from our knowledgeable gardeners while getting the newest and best plants for your garden, many locally grown. Select from shrubs, perennials, natives, annuals, pollinator-friendly plants and more. All proceeds benefit the Arboretum. Thursday, April 30, 3 p.m.-7 p.m. members only preview Friday, May 1, 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Saturday, May 2, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday, May 3, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
MORE INFO AT OPABG.ORG
Gardeners Connect FREE program: ‘Insects in Your Garden’ on April 18 at the Discovery Center Gardeners Connect will continue to monitor the ongoing COVID-19 coronavirus outbreak and take appropriate measures regarding current program scheduling as needed. Please check for the latest updates to the schedule at our website (gardenersconnect.org) or Facebook page. Area entomologist and butterfly author Betsy Betros is scheduled to give the April program in the Gardeners Connect Free Speaker Series. The program, titled “Insects in Your Garden,” is scheduled to start at 10 a.m. on Saturday, April 18, in the Auditorium of the Anita B. Gorman Conservation Discovery Center, 4750 Troost Ave., Kansas City, MO 64110. Betsy is the author of “A Photographic Field Guide to the Butterflies in the Kansas City Region.” She graduated from Colorado State University with a bachelor of science degree in entomology in 1976, but she focused on aquatic insects then and during her career. In retirement, Betsy has focused on terrestrial species. Her “Photographic Field Guide” was published in 2008. During her program for Gardeners Connect, she plans to discuss having an insect-friendly garden. In addition to butterflies, that includes nurturing a garden to attract bees and other pollinators and beneficial predators. The Kansas City Gardener | April 2020
31
Adorable Dandelion KEN O’DELL reviews an early spring nectar source for pollinators.
O
ne of the most recognized flowers in the world is truly the symbol of life, hope and companionship. The dandelion has made itself at home in most of the temperate world. Children have blown the dandelion fluff into the skies for eons and made wishes that came true. Adults worldwide pick, cook, and
Dandelion flowers in April
Dandelion blow ball with seeds
Dandelion blow balls in May eat parts of the dandelion including the roots, leaves and flowers. We have several species of dandelions scattered around the globe and they have now evolved in a way that many of the species do not need to be pollinated or fertilized in order to produce flowers. I like to think of the adorable little dandelion as being gung ho or 32
April 2020 | kcgmag.com
Upcoming Garden Events places to go, things to do, people to see
ATTENTION: At the time of this printing, some events may have been cancelled or postponed. Confirm the event status before planning to attend. (continued from page 31)
overzealous. In spite of not needing pollinators the dandelion is a vital early spring nectar source for many pollinators. These beautiful clean yellow flowers brighten our days whether they are growing from a sidewalk crack, along the freeways, or in our yards and gardens. Dandelions are a strong perennial plant that will grow to about 12” tall. Frequently seen in early spring when a front yard is full of bright yellow flowers and the grass was mowed just three days ago. The flowers are here to help Mother Nature produce more and more plants as the flowers turn into the stunning 2” diameter sphere called blow balls with many tiny parachutes each carrying one seed as these are dispersed in about ten days. The tiniest breeze lifts the weightless parachute and seed into the skies to drift until it hits an object and then the seed drops from the parachute and shows how tough such a beautiful plant is as it lies dormant, then decides to grow when conditions are favorable and grows into the strong hardy dandelion plant we are familiar with. Flowers are produced and the process repeats again and again and again. The common name dandelion comes from French dent-de-lion which means ‘tooth of the lion’. The scientific name is Taraxacum officinale. Officinale or Officinalis is frequently used to indicate the plant is or has been used in medicinal history as with the lovely dandelion. Sadly the Crayola which is owned by Hallmark has decided to let the beautiful color they called ‘Dandelion’ rest as they are no longer going to produce it. Ken O’Dell is the Kansas City Regional Leader of the Kansas Native Plant Society. He is a longtime volunteer at the Overland Park Arboretum.
the Discovery Center is no exception. Join us for a one hour walk around our big backyard enjoying and learning about the blooms. We will also be scanning the treetops for colorful migrating warblers making their way north on the spring migration. Earth Day at the Farm Sat, Apr 25, 1:30-3:30pm; at University of Central Missouri Farm, 700 S Mitchell St, Warrensburg, MO. Come enjoy live music and a variety of vendor booths. There will be native plants for sale and an herb giveaway. We will have barrels for sale decorated by local elementary students that can be converted to rain barrels. And the some of our high school students will help you make an “upcycled” piece of art. Pet a goat, meet one or two of the Mule mascots, interact with various animal skulls and skins, plus some snakes! Free and definitely kid friendly. Sponsored by the Citizens for Environmental Action and the University of Central Missouri. Uptown Garden Faire Sat, Apr 25, 8am-2pm; at 201 W Truman Rd, Independence, MO 64050. Welcome Spring at Uptown Garden Faire! Vendors/growers will be selling annuals, perennials, native plants, yard art, gardentiques, tools and much, much more. Visit with Smokey Bear at our Arbor Day festivities and help us celebrate 20 years of being a Tree City USA. Ample parking, food vendors, demonstrations, raffles. Sponsored by Independence Tree Commission and Independence Parks & Recreation. Call 816-797-8711 for details. SPECIAL EVENT! Blue Springs – Get Outdoors! Sat, Apr 25, 10am-3pm; at Burr Oak Woods Conservation Nature Center, 1401 NW Park Rd, Blue Springs, MO 64015. There are numerous opportunities to get outdoors and enjoy nature in Blue Springs! The Missouri Department of Conservation is partnering with Blue Springs and
Jackson County Parks and Rec to offer this celebration of the outdoors in our community. This event will be held at Lake Remembrance. Activities include: kayaking, fishing, wild edible plants, birding, outdoor yoga, archery, outdoor cooking and so much more! There will be something for all ages. Call 816-228-3766 for more information. www.mdc. mo.gov/burroakwoods Annual Plant Sale to Benefit Cross-Lines Wed, Apr 29, 1-7pm; Thurs, Apr 30 and Fri, May 1, 8am-7pm; Sat, May 2, 8am-1pm; at Shawnee Presbyterian Church, 6837 Nieman. Sale is under a tent rain or shine. The sale has volunteers and a Master Gardener on site to help design and create custom pots. Perennials, annuals, hanging baskets, patio planters, succulents, tomatoes, peppers, and herbs will be available. You can go to the Cross-Line’s website to see an order form of all available plants www.cross-lines.org. Any questions, call Susila Jones at 913-281-3388. Proceeds from the sale supports the many services Cross-Lines provides. Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/202841627787152/ Website and pre-order form: https:// www.cross-lines.org/news-events/ spring-dig-plant-sale.html CANCELLED — Paola Spring Plant Sale Thurs, Apr 30, Fri, May 1, and Sat, May 2; 9am-5pm; in the Family Center parking lot, 808 Baptiste Dr, Paola, KS. Part of the MdC Extension Master Gardeners’ mission to educate the public and help save our essential insects. More info at www.maraisdescygnes.ksu.edu. Follow us on Facebook at www. facebook.com/mdcemg.
May Wyandotte Co Ext MG Plant Sale Fri, May 1, 9am-5pm and Sat, May 2, 9am-2pm; at Wyandotte County Extension Office, Wildcat Room, 1200 N 79th St, Kansas City, KS.
Kansas City Garden Club Annual Spring Luncheon and Plant Sale Sat, May 2; at Colonial Church, 7039 Mission Rd, Prairie Village, KS 66208. Plant Sale at 8:30am. At 10:30 our morning program is “What It’s All About, Nesting and Migration of Our Birds” by Colleen Winter, Johnson County Master Gardener and owner of Wild Birds Unlimited, Shawnee, KS. Your ticket includes lunch cooked and served by the Church ladies. The Afternoon program at 1:00pm is “Journey in Bloom” by Andrea Grist, owner of Andrea K Grist Floral Art, Lee’s Summit, MO. She will present and share ideas about making floral designs. For tickets, call 913-7092530 or 913-636-4956. Ticket deadline is Apr 23. Central Missouri Master Gardeners’ Annual Plant Sale Sat, May 2, 7am-noon; at the Jaycee Fairgrounds, 1445 Fairgrounds Road, Jefferson City, MO. The indoor plant sale features tomatoes, vegetables, peppers, herbs, annuals, perennials, natives, hanging baskets, container plantings, shrubs, and trees. Proceeds from the sale fund scholarships, community garden projects, and the River City Gardens. Kaw Valley Farm Tour Sat, May 2, 9am-5pm. 8 farms with spring produce (strawberries, vegetables, spring farm animals) and a community garden demonstrating the potential in urban gardening. One day only. Tickets available at www. kawvalleyfarmtour.org Shawnee Co Ext MG Plant Sale Sat, May 2, 9am-noon; at Agriculture Hall, 1 Expo Dr (at the corner of 17th and Topeka), Topeka, KS 66604. Are you ready to grow? Stock up on your favorite vegetables, perennials, annuals and herbs! All plants are raised by our Shawnee County
Extension Master Gardeners and are proven to produce, even in extreme weather. Pick up special items, including Mother’s Day baskets, and discover hidden gems in the Garden Shed Thrift Shop. Your garden will be growing-season ready in no time! Cash, check or cards accepted. Entomology Today: Beyond Butterflies and Backyard Bugs Thurs, May 7, 11:30am-1pm; at Wyandotte County Extension Office, 1216 N 79th St, Kansas City, KS. Presenter: Tamra Reall, PhD is Field Specialist in Horticulture, University of Missouri Extension–Urban West. This presentation is sponsored by the Wyandotte County Extension Master Gardeners. Registration not required. Fee: $5.00 (waived for currently certified EMGs). For further information, call 913-299-9300. Liberty Garden Swap Meet Sat, May 16, 8-10am (Or until out of plants). If you want to share something in your garden, or you want to pick up something at no cost to you, come to Rotary Plaza, corner of Gallatin and Franklin St, Liberty, MO. Sponsored by the Liberty Town & Country. Contact Gail Pruett at 816-781-2146 for more details. Heartland Hosta & Shade Plant Society Annual Public Hosta Sale Sat, May 16, 9am-1pm; NEW LOCATION Lakewood Way Community Church, 1150 NE Woods Chapel Road, Lee’s Summit, MO. This is one block east of I-470 and Woods Chapel Rd. The sale features over 60 unique cultivars of hosta and shade perennials suitable for gardens of all sizes. Many of the cultivars are new to the market and can be found locally only at this sale! Quantities of each cultivar are limited, please come early for best selection. The sale is open to the public. Members of the local hosta society will be on hand to answer questions and assist shoppers. For more information and to check the latest updates to our schedule, visit www.HeartlandHosta. club, or our Facebook page www.Facebook.com/Heartland HostaAndShadePlantSociety/.
More events are posted on our website, KCGMAG.COM, click on “Events.” Promote club meetings, classes, seminars, plant sales, regional conferences and other gardening events for FREE! Send details to:
elizabeth@kcgmag.com
Deadline for publishing in the May issue is April 5.
Now Hiring for Spring
We are looking for friendly, enthusiastic people to fill positions at our Lenexa, Overland Park, So. Kansas City retail locations and our growing farm in Edgerton, Kansas.
Cashiers Phone Operators Hardgoods Sales Plant Sales Merchandising Receiving Clerk Marketing Associate Human Resources Generalist
Truck Drivers, (CDL & non-CDL) Equipment Operators Landscape Maintenance Trimming, Mowing, Planting Horticulturist Grow Farm Labor
Fax resume to 816-941-3838 Email resume to suburban@suburbanlg.com Apply in person at our Corporate office. 13635 Wyandotte // Kansas City, MO 64145 Questions? Contact Human Resources at 816-941-4700.
PLANT SPOTLIGHT
Goldilocks Rocks® Bidens ferulifolia
Plant Type: Annual Light Requirement: Sun Bloom Time: Planting To Hard Frost Water Category: Average Soil Fertility Requirement: Average Soil Use in hanging baskets, window baskets and landscaping. Self-cleaning, no deadheading necessary. The Kansas City Gardener | April 2020
Photo courtesy of Proven Winners.
Vegetable plants: tomatoes, peppers, herbs and more grown by our Master Gardeners for this sale. Flowers: perennials grown by our Master Gardeners and Family Tree annuals. Cash and checks accepted. NO Credit or Debit Cards.
33
April
garden calendar n LAWN
• Apply preemergent crabgrass control by April 15 for best results. • Remove winter debris, leaves and twigs from lawn before first mowing. • Check mowers before starting. Change oil, clean air filter and sharpen blade. • Set mower one notch lower than usual to remove brown leaf tips, do not scalp. • Mow bluegrass and tall fescue at 3 inches, removing no more than 1/3 of the leaf blade. • Let the grass clippings fall, unless piling up on turf. • Spot seed to fill in bare areas by mid-month. • Avoid the temptation to mow or fertilize zoysia lawns until May. • Spot treat for broadleaf weed control. • Do not water, unless of a severe drought or applying chemicals.
n TREES AND SHRUBS
• Plant new trees and shrubs. • Fertilize young plants for added growth. • Apply mulch around base of trees and shrubs. • Water newly planted trees and shrubs as needed. • Prune trees and shrubs, except those that bloom early in the spring. • Remove suckers and other shoots from the trunks of trees. • Mulch around young trees as the removal of grass can double the growth rate.
n FLOWERS
VEGETABLES
n
• Remove winter mulch from strawberry bed. • Avoid use of insecticides during bloom time on fruits to protect honeybees. • Fertilize fruit planting.
• Prepare soil for spring planting, avoid working wet soil. • Soil test to determine fertility needs. • Fertilize soil and add organic matter for improvements. • Plant salad crops such as carrots, beets, onions, lettuce and spinach in early April. • Thin salad crops to add space for development. • Add perennial vegetables to the garden, asparagus and rhubarb. • Begin asparagus harvest and continue until spear size decreases. • Plant cabbage, broccoli, and cauliflower very early in month for best yield. • Plant beans, corn and other crops in late April. • Control weed growth in the garden with light cultivation and mulch. • Turn compost pile to increase breakdown.
n FRUITS
• Begin fruit tree spray programs. • Prune fruit trees if task is not already complete. • Plant new fruit trees. • Plant small fruits such as strawberries, raspberries and blackberries. • Prune raspberries and blackberries. • Prune grapevines.
• Prepare soil for planting. Add organic matter and fertilizer. • Remove winter mulch from perennial gardens. • Cut back last season’s growth on perennials. • Fertilize spring flowering bulbs before bloom for best results. • Remove seed heads from spring flowering bulbs. • Leave foliage on bulbs until it dies back naturally. • Plant or divide perennials. • Plant new roses. • Fertilize and prune roses. • Transplant or seed cool-season annuals such as pansies or snapdragons.
n HOUSEPLANTS
• Repot, overgrown plants by increasing pot size 1 inch. • Clean leaves with warm water and a soft cloth to remove dust and improve light. • Prune plants to shape and promote new growth. • Begin fertilization for summer growth. • Remove spent leaves and flowers. • Start new plants by divisions or cuttings. • Resist the temptation to move plants outdoors until nighttime temps remain above 60 degrees.
Johnson County K-State Research and Extension recommends environmentally-friendly gardening practices. This starts by identifying and monitoring problems. Cultural practices and controls are the best approach for a healthy garden. If needed, use physical, biological or chemical controls. Always consider the least toxic approach first. Dennis Patton is the horticulture agent for Johnson County K-State Research and Extension. For free information fact sheets, visit www.johnson.ksu.edu, or call the Extension office at 913-715-7000.
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April 2020 | kcgmag.com
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April is National Safe Digging Month Missouri One Call System and Kansas 811 Promote National Safe Digging Month encouraging residents to always call 811 three days before digging
S
pring is finally here! It’s getting warm and the trees are starting to show some green, eager homeowners like you are ready to start those outdoor digging projects. Before you reach for that shovel and start digging, remember to call 811, the national “Call Before You Dig” number, to ensure that your buried utility lines are marked. More than 40 percent of homeowners who plan to dig this year will put themselves and others at risk by not calling 811 before starting. Damaging an underground line can result in injuries, expensive repair cost, legal fees and outages. Landscaping your yard, installing a culvert, building a fence or even installing a mailbox requires that you call in to have the utilities marked before beginning your work. Every digging project, no
you that they have no facilities at the dig site. The utilities will mark the facilities that they own, usually up to the meter. 3. Once all the utilities have responded, work can then safely proceed, avoiding damages. matter how large or small, necessitates a call to your Missouri or Kansas One Call center. Notifying your state One Call center will allow the utilities to mark their underground facilities permitting your excavation to safely proceed. Using your Missouri and Kansas One Call System is free of charge, and you can process your request 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. It only takes a few minutes to complete the process of notifying the utilities of your intent to dig.
Hotlines for Gardeners Extension Master Gardeners are ready to answer your gardening questions.
CASS COUNTY
816-380-8494; Wed, 9am-noon
DOUGLAS COUNTY
785-843-7058; mastergardener@douglas-county.com; Mon-Fri, 1-4pm
GREATER KANSAS CITY MISSOURI AREA
816-833-8733 (TREE); Mon-Fri, 9am-noon; mggkc.hotline@gmail.com
JOHNSON COUNTY, KS
913-715-7050; Mon-Fri, 9am-4pm; garden.help@jocogov.org
JOHNSON COUNTY, MO
660-747-3193; Wed, 9am-noon
HERE’S HOW YOUR ONE CALL SYSTEM WORKS: 1. Three working days before you begin your work, place a locate request. In Missouri, call 1-800-DIG-RITE or in Kansas, call1-800-DIG-SAFE or 811 or go online to www.mo1call.com or www.kansasonecall.com. Our operators will map the dig site from excavator information and notify the utilities that have facilities in the area. 2. The utilities will respond by marking their facilities or notifying
For convenient mail delivery, complete the form below and send with your check for $25.00. You will receive a one-year subscription to The Kansas City Gardener.
QUESTIONS ABOUT ROSES?
Ask a Rosarian; kcrosehelp@gmail.com; www.kansascityrosesociety.org
d the W ate Butterflies and Bee s Love These rlilies Spooky Plants
July
2015
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for the Octobe
ity with Grasses Beauty and Divers een Not Just for HallowCall 811 Orange and Black: Lemon rd of Digth Control BeforeBiYou Daylily: Beau Park eM ty for fy Weeds for Better Identi Decis ThanBu ion Time: ShouSeeded Lawn More a tte Dayrfl onth: Blue In the bird y Ask andExpe Feeding of Newly ld You Remove YourGaAsh rdenTree Conserva rts about weed Proper Carethe with tories control, oozin g sap and more Marvin Snyder
Name: Address: City, State, Zip:
MIAMI COUNTY
913-299-9300; Mon, Wed, Fri, 9am-4pm
GAR G A RENEDREN E R N D E D R A G ER Beyon th ly G ui de to Su A Mon thly cc es Guid e to Suc October 2014 sf ul cess ful Gard Garde ning G ar de enin g to Succe ssful August 2015 ni ng A Mont hly Guide
E-mail: Where did you pick up The Kansas City Gardener?
WYANDOTTE COUNTY
In Kansas, call 1-800–DIGSAFE or 811 or go on-line at www. kansasonecall.com
The K T ty K an sa Cihe s C it y a n s a s C Th e Ka ns as ity A M on
Phone:
913-294-4306; Thurs, 9am-noon
HOW TO PLACE YOUR FREE NOTIFICATION: In Missouri, call 1-800-DIGRITE or 811 or go online at www. mo1call.com
SUBSCRIBE TODAY
LEAVENWORTH COUNTY
913-364-5700; Apr thru Sep, Mon 10am-4pm, Thurs 10am-4pm
There are over 20 million miles of underground facilities buried in the United States. Never dig without knowing where the underground lines are located.
Please enclose your check payable to The Kansas City Gardener and mail with this form to: P.O. Box 8725, Prairie Village, KS 66208 The Kansas City Gardener is published monthly Jan. through Dec.
The Kansas City Gardener | April 2020
35
Spring
Is Here Tree & Shrub Sale
FLOWERING & EVERGREEN SHRUBS
FLOWERING & SHADE TREES *select varieties and sizes
*select varieties and sizes
Golden Vicary Privet Sale: $28.99
up to
Prairie Fire Crab Tree Sale: $139.99
(3-5 gal)
(1.5")
25% off
Mellow Yellow Spirea Sale: $21.99 (2 gallon)
UA
G
20-50% off
2-YEAR
R A NTEE
Merlot Redbud Tree Sale: $179.99 (2")
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