Michigan Gardener - July/August 2021 by Michigan Gardener

July/August 2021

MichiganGardener.com

Your guide to Great Lakes gardening

Celebrating 25 Years Please thank our advertisers in this issue

PERENNIALS

Rudbeckia

Vegetable Patch

New Plants

Garden Profile

Carrots

New shrubs for 2021

Serenity in the shade

Health Care: For your Trees & Shrubs Our team of ISA Certified Arborists uses organic and the best products, and applies them in a careful manner so bees & butterflies are not harmed, while still providing effective results beyond what our competition is doing for you now. We use advanced science to responsibly enrich your landscape. Some of our services: • Deep-root feeding using Organic Seaweed Kelp & Mycorrhizae • Tree injections • Tree & shrub disease and insect control • Disease and insect sprays applied carefully and cleanly • Fruit reduction & growth regulators: reduce maintenance and pruning

Organic Deer Repellents We use effective, professional deer repellents that do not stain or produce obnoxious odors. They are long-lasting and safe for the environment.

Some of our specialties: • Improving the color on yellowing (chlorotic) pachysandra foliage • Curing disease problems on Pear Trees, Crabapples and Spruces • Site-specific challenges that most tree companies don’t solve— call us with your toughest problems!

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$ Our seasonal strategy ensures the most effective control of deer on Full Season Service your property. We make a Late $ Winter application (Februaryfor every neighbor you refer March), a time when deer populaOffer cannot be combined with any other discount, except when prepaying for an additional discount. tions are starving, causing them to aggressively seek out food sources, even from plants they typically avoid.

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Next, throughout the growing season, we will discourage the browsing that occurs on a regular basis. In Pre-Winter (November-December), we apply again to prevent both buck rubbing and feeding.

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In July, perennial gardeners are just getting started. At Telly’s, there is always something fresh to add color to your summer garden. Come see why we are a favorite summer destination for so many Michigan gardeners.

Michigan Gardener | July/August 2021 | MichiganGardener.com

Garden Wisdom Gardening requires lots of water— most of it in the form of perspiration. —Lou Erickson

Ask MG............................................................6 To-Do List........................................................8 Vegetable Patch..........................................10 Advertiser Index..........................................11 Books for the Michigan Gardener.......12

Hibiscus Spinderella. Gorgeous overlapping petals on enormous flowers from July to early Sept. 4' x 4'. Full Sun to Part Shade.

Ajuga Feathered Friends Cordial Canary Gold foliage accented by blue flower spikes in Spring. Groundcover for Full or Part Shade.

Echinacea Sunny Days Ruby Vibrant ruby flowers with pronounced cones July to Sept. Deer resistant. Full or Part Sun.

Where to pick up Michigan Gardener......................................13

Classified Ads.............................................29 Weather Wrap...........................................29 Places to Grow...........................................30 Profile: Serenity in the shade.....................................Back cover

Calendar........................................................26

On the cover: ‘Herbstsonne’ (aka ‘Autumn Sun’) is one of the best rudbeckias for Michigan gardens. Turn to page 14 for an in-depth look at rudbeckias.

Through the Lens......................................28

Photo: Eric Hofley / Michigan Gardener

Perennials: Rudbeckia...............................14

Hellebore True Love. Double maroon flowers with darker edged petals very early in Spring. Deer resistant. Full or Part Shade.

Proven Winners

Echinacea SunSeekers Salmon Interesting new color for coneflower: salmonpink accented by yellow. Full or Part Sun.

Kniphofia Poker Face Vibrant orange "pokers" from June to Aug. Attractive upright foliage. 3' tall. Full or Part Sun.

Limelight Prime hydrangea New Shrubs for 2021 �� 24

Publisher/Editor Eric Hofley Heliopsis Bleeding Heart. Burnt orange flowers above dark stems and foliage from July to Sept. 3-4' tall. Full or Part Sun.

Buddleia Monarch Princess Pink 8" light pink flowers July to early Sept. Large plants, 5' x 5'. Full or Part Sun.

Design & Production Jonathon Hofley Advertising Eric Hofley Circulation Jonathon Hofley

TROY • 248-689-8735 3301 John R • 1/4 mile north of 16 Mile Rd.

SHELBY TOWNSHIP • 248-659-8555 4343 24 Mile • Btwn Dequindre & Shelby Rd.

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Editorial Assistant Anna Doman

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

30747 Greenfield Rd., Suite 1 Southfield, MI 48076 Phone: 248-594-5563 Fax: 248-594-5564 E-mail: publisher@MichiganGardener.com Website: www.MichiganGardener.com Publishing schedule 5 issues per year: April, May, June, July/Aug, Sept/Oct. Published the first week of the month. Back issues Back issues are available to read for free on our website. Go to www.MichiganGardener.com and click on “Digital Edition.” Copyright © 2021 Michigan Gardener. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be copied, reproduced or used in any form without the expressed, written permission of the publisher. Neither the advertiser nor the publisher will be responsible for misinformation, typographical errors, omissions, etc. contained herein. Michigan Gardener is published by Motor City Publishing, Inc.

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Michigan Gardener | July/August 2021 | MichiganGardener.com

Flower seeds to plant in summer What flower seeds can I sow in the summer that will still bloom this year? A., New Hudson There are several you can sow in summer and enjoy in the same season. Sweet alyssum is a low-growing annual that will self-seed in the landscape once you have it planted. It is easily controlled and provides a softened look to garden bed edges with its pink, white or light blue flowers. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil, or it will become leggy. No deadheading is necessary. If it needs shaping, a light shearing will straighten up this fragrant old favorite. Calendula, or pot marigold, has a long history as a healing herb. The broader leaves fill in quickly as the happy yellow and orange daisy-like flowers start blossoming. Also known as bachelor’s buttons, cornflowers are perfect for changeable spring weather. Bees love the flowers that appear on straight stems in early summer. The petals of this quick-growing flower are also edible. Lovein-a-mist (Nigella) features lovely pastel flowers framed by lacy foliage, which mature into exotic seed pods for dried arrangements. The determined plants grow steadily in cool weather and start blooming in early summer. And who doesn’t love nasturtiums, the tastiest of the edible plants. They attract bees and other pollinators, and are popular for interplanting with cucumbers or tomatoes to deter pests. Nasturtium leaves and flowers contain an abundance of vitamin C and other nutrients. Last but not least, try some sunflowers. Depending on the height you choose, they can intersperse in a garden bed, providing lots of food for birds as well as late-season interest.

Shrubs & trees for winter interest

Variegated hosta turning green

What trees and shrubs would give me good color contrast (red) against the white winter snow? G.N. Fortunately, there are several medium to large shrubs and a couple tree species that can get that coveted red color into your winter landscape. Red chokeberry (Aronia arbutifolia ‘Brilliantissima’) is a deciduous native shrub that has good fall color and clusters of red berry fruit that hold all winter. After the berries freeze over the winter, birds will feast on them in spring after the warmer temperatures soften them up. Bloodtwig dogwood (Cornus sanguinea ‘Midwinter Fire’) is a shrub whose red-orange leafless stems provide a stunning contrast to snow. A group of 3 to 5 of these can brighten any spot. Cranberrybush viburnum (Viburnum trilobum Redwing) is a tall, full shrub whose red berries form after the beautiful late spring display of lacy white flowers. These remain after leaf drop and can provide winter food for wildlife. Consider a couple holly shrubs. Winterberry (Ilex verticillata ‘Red Sprite’) enjoys a wetter soil. It is deciduous but its bright red berries up and down its stems are superb. Blue holly (Ilex x meserveae ‘Blue Princess’) is not deciduous, so its red berries are accompanied by classic glossy leaves in winter. These are more appreciated the closer they are to pedestrian walkways. In terms of trees, one that might work for you is the native serviceberry (Amelanchier ‘Autumn Brilliance’), which has a multi-stem structure, lovely white flowers in later spring, excellent fall color, and speckles of red berries throughout the canopy. Birds do love them as well. Also look at the underused witch hazel (Hamamelis ‘Kohankie Red’ or ‘Diane’). These bloom in January to April when nothing else dares. A shrub-like tree, it prefers moist but well-drained soil and full sun. It will also tolerate part shade.

Why are some of the leaves on my variegated hosta turning green? Can I do anything to keep the plant variegated? Hostas are probably one of the most hybridized perennials available to gardeners for shade. There are several dozen species and thousands of registered varieties to choose from. On your plant, are these new leaves emerging or older leaves that are changing? New leaves may emerge green and then their variegation can occur as they mature and the plant’s hybridized genetics kicks in. If they are older leaves, it may be a natural development of the aging leaf. Some of the leaves may also be “reverting” back to the original appearance of one of its prior generations. In this case, solid green leaves. If and when you are sure particular leaves are reversions, they

Have a question? Send it in! Go to MichiganGardener.com and click on “Submit a question” should be pruned out. Since they have more chlorophyll, green leaves are often more vigorous than variegated ones. If not pruned out, they will grow faster and quite possibly overgrow the desired variegated leaves. Additionally, check maintenance practices in the area. Hostas planted near lawn turf that is regularly fertilized with nitrogen to keep it green may be affected by losing their variegation. They absorb the additional nitrogen through the movement of water in the soil. It can adversely affect their display and overpower the variegation by stimulating

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MichiganGardener.com | July/August 2021 | Michigan Gardener

chlorophyll production. If you are fertilizing the hostas on a regular basis, check the NPK ratio of your fertilizer and reduce the use of one with a high nitrogen ratio.

Spade versus shovel What is the difference between a spade and a shovel, and how are each supposed to be used? The difference is not always obvious since spades and shovels have crossover tendencies depending on the task they are doing. Having said that, generally speaking a spade has a squared-off tip or end. The sides of the pan tend to be straighter, and they are used by gardeners primarily for digging sharp edges where lawns meet garden beds. In workable soil, a spade is a good tool for the perfect plant hole. Spades can also break up clods of

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hard packed dirt because there is more edge meeting the soil. The sharp edge can also cut through hidden roots when planting. A shovel has a rounded, cupped pan where the sides taper to a point. Its primary function is digging deep holes, and moving bulk material such as soil, compost, or mulch. For leverage, it tends to have a longer handle than a spade. If the handle is fiberglass or steel, it can carefully be used as a pry bar. Most gardeners have one of each in their arsenal of tools. Within each category, there are specialized formations which enhance each tool’s ability to do the task assigned. Some people only use a shovel and others will swear the only digging implement they need is a spade. It is a matter of personal preference, what feels good to your stature, and the kind of garden work you do.

GREENWORKS® battery-powered lawn mowers, blowers, string trimmers, and edgers deliver the power and performance of comparable gas-powered tools without the mess, noxious fumes, stamina-reducing vibration and noise associated with gas products. For more information, go to: www.GreenworksTools.com

Leaving plant in pot over winter I have a ‘Major Wheeler’ honeysuckle vine planted in a pot and growing up an arbor. Can I leave the container and vine outdoors for the winter? L.W., Flushing The first question: will the pot material withstand freezing temperatures? Terra cotta, ceramic and most resin containers cannot handle the expansion and contraction of freezing temperatures. They crack or become brittle and shatter. Concrete planters are about the only ones not susceptible to freeze and thaw. Generally speaking, the pot must tolerate at least one zone colder than your regional climate. If your area is zone 5, then the pot and the plant need to handle zone 4. Even if the plant, such as the perennial ‘Major Wheeler’ honeysuckle (Lonicera sempervirens), is hardy

to zone 5, it is exposed on all sides in a container. If possible, trim the vine down to about two feet in fall and detach from the arbor. Heel the entire container in the ground over winter, burying it to where the vine emerges from the soil. The insulating factor of the ground itself around the pot is immense. Bank mulch or straw around the base of the vine, which will help moderate surface freeze and thaw. If this is not possible, you could pile mulch or straw around the pot to insulate it. The container may not survive unless it is concrete, but the roots of the vine may survive the winter, and you can transplant it to a new container in spring. Answers provided by Beverly Moss, owner of Garden Rhythms.

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Michigan Gardener | July/August 2021 | MichiganGardener.com

Feature Task: Choose and grow the best hydrangeas for Michigan gardens

Annuals • Remove spent flowers on a regular basis to maintain vigorous blooming. • Sow forget-me-nots at this time for blooms next spring. • If petunias are leggy, shear them back early in the summer and fertilize to help push new blooms. • Monitor container plants on a daily basis for dryness.

Bulbs (August) • In late August, begin preparing for fall bulb planting. Select a well-drained area in sun or part shade. Clear the grass and weeds and dig in 2 to 3 inches of compost or manure.

Evergreens • Trimming can be done on arborvitae, yew, hemlock, and juniper.

Fruits (August) • Begin the harvest of early grapes, early apples, and fall-bearing raspberries. Prune out old raspberry canes as they finish blooming. • Grapes and bramble fruits can still be planted. Continue the harvest of day-neutral and everbearing strawberries. • Strawberry beds should be fertilized now. • Keep strawberries, brambles, currants, and gooseberries weeded to prevent competition for water and nutrients. • Clean up and destroy fallen tree fruit on a weekly basis to reduce future problems with pests and disease.

With their big, beautiful, and colorful flower heads, hydrangeas are one of the most popular summer-flowering shrubs in the garden. They create interest spring through fall and pair nicely with perennials and evergreens. There are hundreds of hydrangea varieties, but some are better suited to Michigan’s climate than others. First, let’s review some growing information. Hydrangeas do best when planted in areas with sun or partial sun, in consistently moist, well-drained, and organic-rich soil. Too much shade can result in reduced blooming. When planting hydrangeas in well-drained soils, enrich the soil with compost. For poorly drained or clay-based soil, add compost and soil conditioner (pine bark fines). Add a starter fertilizer to encourage rapid root growth. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application rates. For newly planted hydrangeas, deep watering every couple of days, or as needed, is important. For established hydrangeas in dry weather, deep watering every few days is recommended. To help keep roots cool and retain moisture during dry summers, apply a 2- to 3-inch layer of mulch around the

General • Check and change nectar in hummingbird and butterfly feeders on a regular basis. Good sanitation is especially important for hummingbird feeders. Bacterial build-up in the nectar can cause severe health problems. • As crops are harvested and other areas of the garden are cleaned up, a lot of organic matter is produced. This is an excellent time to start a compost pile. The process involves

plants, but away from their stems. Fertilize established hydrangeas every spring. Here is a list of the hardiest hydrangea species that handle Michigan winters and bloom reliably every year without special care or pruning. Smooth hydrangea (Hydrangea arborescens). These flower blooms are white or pink. The flower colors cannot be changed. Popular varieties: Annabelle (white flowers), Incrediball (white), Incrediball Blush (blush pink), Invincibelle Garnetta (pink), Invincibelle Limetta (white), Invincibelle Mini Mauvette (dwarf, pink), Invincibelle Ruby (pink), Invincibelle Spirit II (pink), Invincibelle Wee White (dwarf, white). Panicle hydrangea (Hydrangea paniculata): These all bloom white and age to varying shades of pink. Their flower colors cannot be changed. Popular varieties: Bobo (white fades to pale pink), Fire Light (white fades to red/pink), Fire Light Tidbit (dwarf, white fades to red/pink), Fire and Ice (white fades to red/pink), Limelight (white fades to pale pink), Limelight Prime (dwarf, white fades to pink), Little Lime (dwarf, white fades to pale pink), Little Quick Fire (dwarf, white fades

to red/pink), Pinky Winky (white fades to bright pink), Phantom (white fades to soft pink), Quick Fire (white fades to red/pink), Quick Fire Fab (dwarf, white fades to bright pink), Strawberry Sundae (white fades to soft pink), Vanilla Strawberry (white fades to strawberry pink), Zinfin Doll (white fades to bright pink). Climbing hydrangea (Hydrangea anomala subsp. petiolaris). White lacecap flowers will only appear after several years of being established in the ground. Requires some type of support to grow up on, like a tree, trellis, wall or arbor. Oakleaf hydrangea (Hydrangea quercifolia): These all bloom white and age to varying shades of pink. Their flower colors cannot be changed. Their unusually shaped leaves have spectacular fall color, changing from green to burgundy or purple. Popular varieties: Alice (white fades to soft pink), Gatsby Pink (white fades to bright pink), Munchkin (dwarf, white fades to dull pink), Pee Wee (dwarf, white fades to dull pink), Ruby Slippers (white fades to red/pink), Snowcicle (double-flowered, white fades to dull pink), Snow Queen (white fades to soft pink).

• Plants kept outdoors should be checked daily for moisture. Keeping them in a shaded area will reduce drying out.

daisy, coreopsis, and balloon flower. Deadhead bellflower, coneflower, blanket flower, baby’s breath and daylily. • Clean up the dead foliage of columbine, bleeding heart, and poppy as they go into dormancy. • Keep an eye out for Japanese beetles in midsummer. A pheromone lure trap set away from desirable plants is an excellent monitoring device.

Lawn

Shrubs & Trees

• Lawns need about an inch of water per week in dry periods. A half inch of water every 3 to 4 days will fulfill this need. • If there is moisture stress on the lawn, watch for opportunistic diseases. An overwatered lawn will be prone to brown patch and melting out. A drought-stressed lawn will be at risk for necrotic ring spot and dollar spot. • If your community restricts water use during dry periods: 1) do not fertilize during the drought; 2) increase your mower height to 3 inches; 3) pull or spot-spray weeds; 4) water in the early morning, using two short cycles an hour apart.

• Rhododendrons and azaleas should be watered 1 to 2 times per week in dry weather. • Deciduous hedges can be pruned or sheared now.

layering organic matter and, ideally, turning it on a weekly or biweekly basis. Keep the pile moist, but not soggy. By next spring, the pile will be broken down enough to add to and improve your soil.

Houseplants

Perennials • Garden mums should receive their final pinching in early July. Asters can also be pinched back for bushier growth. • Beds should receive one inch of water per week during dry periods. • Cut back spent stalks of yarrow, Shasta

Vegetables • In mid July, make a final sowing of snap beans, sweet corn, and summer squash. Late in July, do a final planting of beets, carrots, chard, and head lettuce. Plant a fall crop of leaf lettuce, Chinese cabbage, kale, collards, and endive. • To help prevent the spread of disease, avoid harvesting green beans while the plants are wet. • Stop cutting asparagus and allow ferns to develop. Apply balanced fertilizer. • Finish the rhubarb harvest when the stalks start to get small. Provided by the professionals at English Gardens.

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Carrots

arrots are sweet and delectable and a welcome addition to any garden! Growing them is not difficult, but it helps to know your soil and the variety of carrot that is most suitable to it. Most carrots prefer a sandy loam soil, or a soil that is loose with good water-holding capacity. The preferred pH is 6.5 as with most vegetables, but carrots will do fine if it’s a little higher or lower. Heavy clay and soils that are compacted can create problems for root growth, so work the soil deeply and amend with plenty of compost. Carrots can split or have poor root development in tight soils or where stones or other obstructions are in the soil, so raised beds are something to consider if your soil is likely to be a problem. Carrots are best planted from seed since transplanting would likely damage the root. How far to space the carrots depends on the type you are growing so check seed packets or garden catalogs for information. Keep an eye on the carrots as they are growing and cover any exposed root tops with soil to prevent greening.

choice, carrots do come in a variety of colors. They always have. If you would like to grow something a little different, check the garden catalogs and seed packets at garden centers for carrots that can be white, yellow, red, or purple. Rainbow variety packets are available as well. Keep in mind that the greater the variety of colors, the wider the range of nutritional value. This year I’m trying a red-purple heirloom variety named ‘Dragon.’ The interior is yellow-orange with a light-yellow core. Based on the name, the grandchildren should love it! Next year I hope to try ‘Oxheart,’ an orange heirloom that is short and stubby, and somewhat heart shaped, making them fairly broad, and good to grow in heavy clay soils. They can weigh up to a pound and need some space between them to accommodate their size. They are noted to be good for storage purposes as well.

Growth cycle

Carrots are a cool season crop and may be planted once the soils warm to at least 45 degrees F. They can be Categories of carrots sown usually starting in April and There are five basic categories all the way into July. As a bienfor carrots: Imperator, Nantes, nial, they complete their life cycle Danvers, Chantenay, and Ball. The in two years, so they can be harcategories are based on the size and vested from midsummer through shape of the carrot. Imperator are early winter, depending on when the long, thin carrots commercially they were planted. If covered with grown that you find in the market. a thick layer of mulch to prevent Mary These grow up to 11 inches long and the ground from freezing around Gerstenberger thus are the type that need a good, them, carrots can be harvested well deep, and loose soil, free of stones. into the winter months. If left in Nantes and Danvers types are of medium the ground, they will go to seed the following length, about 8 inches at maturity, with Danyear, so if you plan to save seed, keep that in vers coming to a tapered point, while Nantes mind (they will also get tougher and not be are more cylindrical in shape. These types suitable for harvest once they go to seed). are often the choice for home gardens. They Carrots really are a great addition to any will do best in loose soils, but they can manhome garden. They are wonderful whether age in soils that are a little heavier. The MSU raw, cooked, roasted or grilled. You can find Extension tip sheet on “How to Grow Carcarrots suitable for raised beds or containers. rots” (www.canr.msu.edu/resources/how_ They are available in a range of colors. You to_grow_carrots) suggests ‘Nelson’ and ‘Bocan find varieties suited to being used fresh, lero’ as preferred choices in home gardens. canned, frozen or stored. What could be betChantenay are considered short carrots at ter than growing carrots! 6 to 7 inches long, and because of that shorter length, can do better in heavier or stony soils Mary Gerstenberger was the Consumer Horthan the longer carrots. They also do well in ticulture Coordinator at the Michigan State raised beds and container gardens. Ball carUniversity Extension in Macomb County, MI. rots are small and round or with a very short For vegetable and gardening information from taproot no more than 3 to 4 inches long. These MSU, visit www.migarden.msu.edu. are ideal for heavy soils or shallow containers. Call the toll-free Michigan State University Unusual varieties Lawn and Garden Hotline at 888-678-3464 While orange carrots are still the popular for answers to your gardening questions.

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‘Little Goldstar’

Rudbeckia

Classic American plants that belong in every garden

n 1999, the Perennial Plant Association chose ‘Goldsturm’ rudbeckia (Rudbeckia fulgida var. sullivantii ‘Goldsturm’) as Perennial Plant of the Year. It was an ideal candidate—simple to grow and care for, adaptable to nearly every part of the United States, and profuse-blooming with a compact, garden-friendly habit. Not new by any means, ‘Goldsturm’ was discovered in 1937 at a nursery in the Czech Republic. For decades, ‘Goldsturm’ was Karen the gold standard in garden rudBovio beckias. Sadly, just a few years af-

ter being named perennial of the year, a perfect storm of problems began to unfold for ‘Goldsturm.’ Three diseases—Septoria leaf spot, angular leaf spot, and downy mildew (different than the much more common and benign powdery mildew)—began to disfigure ‘Goldsturm’ plantings everywhere. The plants, which once provided great swaths of golden color, became masses of ugly foliage, marred by patchy purplish-brown spots that coalesced to encompass entire leaves. Flowering was diminished by the downy mildew, which, in ad-

Yesterday and tomorrow: A brief rudbeckia name history Oddly for an American genus, the name honors the Swedish botanist Olof Rudbeck (1630-1702) and his son Olof Rudbeck the Younger. The genus was named by Carl Linnaeus, the younger Rudbeck’s very famous student. Rudbeckias are sometimes referred to as coneflowers, and at one time, the genus dition to causing foliar lesions, also resulted in stunting and deformation of flower buds. To add insult to injury, an insect (rudbeckia psyllid) started to show up more frequently. Its nymphs feed on the underside of the leaves, resulting in the development of large purplish raised patches on the upper leaf surfaces. So serious was this trifecta of diseases

Echinacea (aka coneflower) was included within the genus Rudbeckia. Their close kinship can be seen in the new intergeneric hybrids (Echibeckia) that are now making their way into garden centers. Be aware that this new man-made genus is comprised exclusively of annuals (non-hardy perennials) at this point. (plus an insect) that nursery growers and gardeners found it nearly impossible to grow good specimens of a plant that for decades had been lauded as a top garden performer. In fact, my nursery made the difficult decision in 2008 to remove and destroy all ‘Goldsturm’ plants, both in nursery pots and in our gardens, in an attempt to eliminate the spores and overwintering insects from our property.

MichiganGardener.com | July/August 2021 | Michigan Gardener

Eric Hofley / Michigan Gardener

‘Indian Summer’

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‘American Gold Rush’

Improved rudbeckia options As research into the devastating rudbeckia diseases progressed, plant breeders took notice of the characteristics that imparted better disease tolerance. Rudbeckia selections with narrow, softly hairy leaves were typically more resistant. Growers and breeders also took a closer look at older cultivars—the 15- to 18-inch, narrow-leafed variety ‘Viette’s Little Suzy’ (R. fulgida var. speciosa) stood out—and started working in earnest to develop more ‘Goldsturm’ replacements. They also sought to deliver more options in regard to height and habit. ‘Little Goldstar’ (R. fulgida var. sullivantii) arrived in 2011 and filled the niche for a truly compact fulgida-type rudbeckia. It stays under 16 inches with equal width, and its narrow, dark green leaves are practically disease-free. In 2020, All-America Selections named the rudbeckia ‘American Gold Rush,’ a recent hybrid with more complex parentage, as an AAS winner. It forms a profuselyblooming dome, 24 inches tall by 44 inches wide, composed of narrow fuzzy leaves that show no signs of foliar disease. Although the Rudbeckia fulgida varieties exemplify the quintessential black-eyed Susan look, there are many other good rudbeckias for the garden. These other species round out the usefulness of the genus, with different growth habits, flower colors and shapes, Eric Hofley / Michigan Gardener

‘Prairie Sun’

continued on page 16

Michigan Gardener | July/August 2021 | MichiganGardener.com

continued from page 15 and site preferences. The genus is comprised of 25 to 30 North American species, with a half dozen or more figuring prominently as garden plants.

More rudbeckia species worth growing Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta and its hybrids) The humble meadow wildflower commonly known as black-eyed Susan is R. hirta. The name means “hairy,” which describes its somewhat bristly leaves. The true species has simple, golden daisy flowers with the traditional black eye, and grows in fields as a shortlived perennial or biennial. But it is the R. hirta hybrids that are the most garden-worthy. Gardeners should, however, be somewhat leery of the claim that these hybrids are pe-

rennials. They often fail to return after a typical Michigan winter, although they may selfsow. The ease with which they can be grown from seed has led to their extensive use as bedding plants. They may be sold in garden centers in packs or small pots, but due to their substantial size, you are more likely to find them offered in one-gallon or larger containers, misleadingly placed on nursery shelves alongside the true perennial types. Nonetheless, R. hirta hybrids are beautiful garden plants and are available in a wide range of colors: traditional gold with a black eye (‘Indian Summer’), gold with a pronounced dark eyezone (‘Denver Daisy,’ ‘Sonora’), burgundy red (‘Cherry Brandy’), yellow with green eye (‘Irish Eyes,’ ‘Prairie Sun’), russet shades (‘Cappucino,’ ‘Autumn Colors’), as well as mum-like double forms (‘Cherokee Sunset,’ ‘Maya’) and quilled-petal types (‘Chim Chiminee’). continued on page 18

North Creek Nurseries

‘Herbstsonne’ (‘Autumn Sun’)

North Creek Nurseries

‘Herbstsonne’ (‘Autumn Sun’)

Eric Hofley / Michigan Gardener

Great coneflower (Rudbeckia maxima)

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continued from page 16 Rudbeckia hirta hybrids are available in many heights, from dwarf 12-inch varieties, to tall three-footers. They look best from June through about mid-August, after which they may suffer from powdery mildew and decline quickly. In my experience, the only remedy is the early institution of a regular anti-fungal spray program, along with attention to proper watering needs—stress really increases powdery mildew susceptibility.

Cutleaf coneflower clan (Rudbeckia laciniata) R. laciniata (aka green-headed coneflower) is a native to all but three of the western U.S. states. A five-foot tall plant with dissected leaves and true yellow flowers with green cones, it is found in the wild in moist soil meadows and along streams, growing in sun to partial shade. It and its naturally occurring double form (var. hortensia) are perhaps best left in the wild, due to their extremely aggressive rate of spread. The double form, which bears fluffy yellow flowers, has been tamed somewhat in the variety ‘Goldquelle,’ which stays shorter at about three feet tall. It has a somewhat less rambling habit, although it suffers from floppiness due to the weight of its big flowers, in the same way that large double peonies flop after a rain. A better choice, by far, is the hybrid ‘Herbstsonne’ (aka ‘Autumn Sun’ in English), which is most likely a cross of R. laciniata and R. nitida. This is a flawless selection and perhaps one of the best rudbeckias in cultivation, regardless of species or type. The plants are large and substantial, with broader, glossier dark green leaves and sturdier flower stems than its parents. Each stem is topped with many large single, canary yellow daisy flowers with green cones. The flowering display lasts from mid-July through September. Best of all, it has a clumping habit, rather than spreading. Expect plants to attain a height of at least 5 feet, with a clump width of 4 feet.

Great coneflower (Rudbeckia maxima) When not in flower, many gardeners would not recognize this plant as a rudbeckia. Its broad, waxy, blue-green leaves are unlike those of any other rudbeckia. The fanciful, descriptive common names Dumbo’s ears and cabbage-leaf coneflower provide clues to its appearance, although most wildflower references simply call it great coneflower. It has very large yellow flowers with drooping ray florets, borne singly atop leafless, arrowstraight stems up to seven feet tall. The dark brown cones elongate as they mature and are filled with large seeds that goldfinches adore. Great coneflower is adaptable to many soils and can even tolerate flooded soils for short periods of time, along with alternating periods of drought, making it a good candidate for a rain garden. North Creek Nurseries

Great coneflower (Rudbeckia maxima)

continued on page 20

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continued from page 18

Sweet coneflower (Rudbeckia subtomentosa) This midwestern native is seldom used in gardens. It doesn’t have any particularly outstanding characteristics to make it worth the space it would take, unless perhaps used as a specimen in a native planting. However, two variants of the typical form are sought and used by gardeners for their very unique flowers. The first was discovered by plantsman and naturalist Henry Eilers, growing along a stream bank in south-central Illinois. Rather than the typical yellow daisy flowers, this plant had very narrow, strongly quilled ocher-yellow flowers. Named after its discoverer, ‘Henry Eilers’ grows 4 to 5 feet tall, its upper stems bearing clusters of the smallish but long-lasting flowers. It makes an excellent fall cut flower, blooming in early September in Michigan. However, the large mature plants will generally require staking. A smaller three-foot version called ‘Little Henry’ was later introduced. Gardeners might find this shorter-statured variety a more practical size for the garden.

Brown-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia triloba) The common names of three-lobed coneflower, branched coneflower, or simply browneyed Susan are all descriptive. The plants grow 3 to 4 feet tall, with broad lower leaves and smaller upper leaves, often parted into three lobes. The small golden flowers are only 1 to 2 inches across, but are borne profusely in clusters at the ends of many thin branches. A mature plant will bear hundreds of flowers. A short-lived perennial, it is prone to self-sowing. This tendency can be used to advantage in naturalistic plantings and informal gardens, where precise location of each plant is less important than impact of color. The plant habit is quite upright and non-flopping, making these

plants easy to accommodate in any garden. Be aware that the heavy flower production may compromise the plant’s perennial nature. Cutting back the flower stems once they fade can encourage the plant to produce a basal rosette of foliage in the fall that will overwinter successfully. If allowed to flower uninterrupted, R. triloba will easily bloom from late July through most of October. Be on the lookout for seedlings in the spring and position them where you would like to see a bold display of color in two years’ time. In the early 2000s, a significant color variation, now named ‘Prairie Glow,’ was discovered in an Iowa field. The flowers range in color from burgundy to russet to orange, all of which are variously tipped in gold or yellow, looking like miniature versions of the colorful flowers on the R. hirta hybrids. Since ‘Prairie Glow’ is grown from seed, each plant will be slightly different, with varying color patterns. Buying green plants prior to bloom is a bit like choosing from a grab bag—great fun for gardeners who like surprises!

How to grow rudbeckias Rudbeckia species, varieties and cultivars are often lumped together in garden references, with generalized advice and descriptions like “easy for beginners,” “long blooming,” and “low-maintenance perennials.” While it is true that some generalizations about appearance and culture can be made (rudbeckias usually have yellow, daisy-like flowers; rudbeckias prefer full sun), broad statements like these don’t do justice to the diversity of the genus, nor do they educate the gardener about the finer details of growing them. A common misconception is that rudbeckias are drought-resistant. Anyone who has seen a planting of R. fulgida ‘Goldsturm’ in the middle of a drought would disagree. continued on page 22

Eric Hofley / Michigan Gardener

‘Henry Eilers’

Rudbeckia companions

Terra Nova Nurseries

‘Little Henry’

Rudbeckias, with the exception of the R. hirta hybrids, are late-summer and early-fall bloomers. Their yellow and gold color palette suits the season well, making rudbeckia a perfect bridge between summer and autumn. To create harmonious combinations, it is worthwhile to make a distinction between the golden-hued rudbeckias and the true yellow ones. Bright gold can be harsh when juxtaposed with pink or rose-toned flowers, but can be used to great effect when contrasted with blue or purple. Gold-toned rudbeckias like perennial black-eyed Susan (R. fulgida) and brown-eyed Susan (R. triloba) pair perfectly with the tan and taupe colors of ornamental grasses. Golden rudbeckias also look great with burgundy-foliage sedums or those with coral-toned flowers, like ‘Autumn Joy’ sedum.

The true yellow-colored rudbeckia ‘Herbstsonne’ would be smashing with red cardinal flowers (Lobelia), hibiscus, and a dark-leafed cimicifuga (Actaea) like ‘Hillside Black Beauty’—if you have a garden large enough to accommodate them all! Great coneflower (Rudbeckia maxima) is at home with other bottomland native plants such as turtlehead, great blue lobelia (Lobelia siphilitica), and any of the tall ironweeds. Pair any rudbeckia, regardless of flower color, with Russian sage, agastache, Joe pye weed, and late-blooming lilies and daylilies that share the late-summer bloom period. Rudbeckias also provide a late-season nectar source in butterfly gardens. Plant them with other butterfly favorites like allium, butterfly bush, coneflower (Echinacea), blazing star (Liatris), Culver’s root (Veronicastrum), goldenrod, and veronica.

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North Creek Nurseries

‘Prairie Glow’ continued from page 20

North Creek Nurseries

Brown-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia triloba)

It droops and wilts badly. We also know that cutleaf coneflower (R. laciniata) and sweet coneflower (R. subtomentosa) are found in nature in moist sites—the gardener should not be deceived into planting them, or their cultivars, in sandy, dry soils. The species R. hirta (black-eyed Susan) and R. triloba (brown-eyed Susan) are more drought tolerant, but even they may develop powdery mildew if allowed to dry out too many times. I made the mistake of planting the great coneflower (R. maxima) in dry, sandy soil, only to discover that its native habitat is river bottomland. Only when I planted it in wetter soil did it develop the big, rounded leaves and dramatic flower stems for which it is known. It is worthwhile to do a bit of research about the specific rudbeckias you have chosen. If the perennial in question is a native plant or a hybrid of a native, consult a book or website about natives to learn about its natural habitat. Let Mother Nature guide you. The story about the demise of the classic

variety ‘Goldsturm’ also contradicts the old saw that all rudbeckias are low-maintenance perennials. It takes a lot of work to keep a disease-prone plant healthy and attractive. I am loath to malign a variety with such a long history of outstanding performance, but it has been superseded, as was necessary, with the advent of the debilitating disease trio mentioned earlier. It is now easy to find good substitutes with a similar look but far fewer disease and maintenance problems. Additionally, the other rudbeckia species described in this article are not susceptible to the same fungi that plague ‘Goldsturm.’ Most but not all of the rudbeckias mentioned produce fertile seed, and the issue of self-sowing must be considered by each gardener. Native rudbeckias are typically more fertile than hybrid cultivars, but be aware that even hybrids can produce fertile seeds. Deadheading can help reduce self-sowing, but will deprive songbirds of a favored food source. Karen Bovio is the owner of Specialty Growers in Howell, MI.

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Panicle hydrangea: Limelight Prime

Proven Winners (2)

Limelight Prime hydrangea shares the same qualities of the classic ‘Limelight’ hydrangea, while adding several attributes. It has a denser, more compact habit that creates a lush, full look. This smaller size can be a better fit for many home landscapes and gardens. Strong, sturdy stems won’t flop over, even under the weight of very large blooms. Limelight Prime blooms earlier and has better flower color, from its early summer lime green phase all the way through to pink and red tones in the fall. Height: 4-6 feet. Width: 4-5 feet. Light: Full sun to part sun. Zone: 3.

Weigela: Electric Love Electric Love has a straightforward claim to fame: it is the first red-flowered, dark-leaved weigela on the market. Vibrant red flowers are contrasted against nearly black foliage for a striking look. Because of its compact size, Electric Love is useful along a walkway, or it can be planted in the front of mixed garden beds. Height: 1-2 feet. Width: 2-3 feet. Light: Full sun. Zone: 4.

Bloomin’ Easy

MichiganGardener.com | July/August 2021 | Michigan Gardener

Star Roses & Plants

Rose: Petite Knock Out

Plants Nouveau

Smooth hydrangea: ‘Haas’ Halo’

Petite Knock Out is the first-ever miniature Knock Out rose. It has the same easy care as the other roses in the popular family, but in a very compact size. Not only is the overall plant petite, but the fire engine red blooms are commensurately sized and dainty at roughly 1-1/2 inches in diameter. Plant this rose in containers on your porch or patio, or in mass for a low patch of bold red color.

‘Haas’ Halo’ (Hydrangea arborescens) boasts sturdy stems, deep bluish-green, glossy foliage, and huge, white, lacecap flowers. In fact, each bloom is up to 14 inches in diameter. As a bonus, they make lovely dried flowers. While it would enjoy moist soils, ‘Haas’ Halo’ can also handle droughts and a summer full of heat and humidity. It is beautiful planted as a specimen and just as pretty in groups along a woodland edge.

Height: 18 inches. Width: 18 inches. Light: Full sun. Zone: 4.

Height: 3-5 feet. Width: 3-5 feet. Light: Full sun to part shade. Zone: 3.

Virginia Sweetspire: Scentlandia Virginia sweetspire (Itea virginica) is a solid performer for many reasons: lovely fragrant flowers, adaptability to both wet soils and shade, and striking shades of red and purple foliage in the fall. Scentlandia improves on the classic species. First, it grows in a more compact and refined habit. Next, better hardiness—important since Virginia sweetspire blooms on old wood. Improved hardiness assures that, even in the colder parts of its hardiness zone, flowering (and thus fragrance) will be reliable. Speaking of fragrance, Scentlandia perfumes the air with notably fragrant flowers. Height: 2-3 feet. Width: 2-3 feet. Light: Sun to shade. Zone: 5.

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Children’s Storytime Fri, Jul 2, 10:45-11:45am, Fridays, May-Aug, Midland. At Dow Gardens. Award-winning children’s books read aloud in the Children’s Garden. All ages welcome. Register: 989-631-2677. Growing & Using Kitchen Herbs Wed, Jul 7, 10am, Rochester Hills. By Rochester Garden Club at Van Hoosen Farm. Bring a chair. www.rochestergardenclub.org Gardening for Birds Thu, Jul 8, 7pm, Ferndale. By The Ferndale Garden Club at the Pavilion at Harding Park. Presented by Cheryl English from Black Cat Pottery. Open to public & free. 248-541-6427. Season Extension for the Home Garden Sat, Jul 10, 10am, online. By MSU Extension. MSU Tollgate Farm HomeGrown Gardening Series. $10/session or $75/ series. A monthly virtual series designed to encourage & support home vegetable gardeners. Lakeshore Garden Walk Sat, Jul 10, 10am-4pm, Lexington. By Lakeshore Garden Club at 9 gardens. $10 in advance, $15 day of. Self-guided tour. madalena0404@gmail.com or margw40@gmail.com. H LACASA’s 22nd Annual Garden Tour Weekend Sat, Jul 10, & Sun, Jul 11, Livingston Cty. By LACASA. 12 garden stops, blooming raffle, scavenger hunt, enjoy a lunch & learn. All proceeds benefit victims of child abuse & interpersonal violence. $20 advance tickets. $25 at gardens. 517-548-1350. Reserve tickets: www.lacasacenter.org. 30th Annual Welcome to My Garden Tour Sat, Jul 10, & Sun, Jul 11, 10am-4pm, Marshall. By Marshall Area Garden Club at local gardens. $10/advance, $15/day of. Vintage/garden market. 800-877-5163, www.marshallareagardenclub.org. Mindfulness in Nature Camp for Kids Tue, Jul 13, to Thur, July 15, 9:30am-12:30pm (ages 5-8) & 1:30-4:30pm (ages 9-12), Niles. At Fernwood Botanical Garden. $225/camper. www.fernwoodbotanical.org. Earth-Friendly Gardening: The Secret is the Soil Tue, Jul 13, 6:30pm, online. By Master Gardener Society of Oakland County. Presenter: Lillian Dean. mgsoc.info/calendar-of-events. Earth Explorers Tue, Jul 13 to Fri, July 16, Troy. At Stage Nature Center. $95. Children will explore forest, meadow & pond, observing the animals & plants found in those communities. debra@troynaturesociety.org. Snip, Snip…Tips & Tricks Wed, Jul 14, 12:30pm, Grand Rapids. By West Michigan Flower Arrangers Guild at Frederik Meijer Gardens. www.kentgardenclub.org.

46th Troy Garden Walk: Anniversary Gardens Wed, Jul 14, 9:30am-3pm; 5-8:30pm, Troy. By Troy Garden Club at 6 area gardens. $12 in advance at Auburn Oaks, Telly’s Greenhouse, Troy Historic Village & Uncle Luke’s. $15 day of at Troy Historic Village only. Arts & Crafts boutique & plant sale at Village. www.TroyGardenClubMi.com, 248-535-5955. Northville Garden Walk Wed, Jul 14, 9am-4pm, Northville. By Country Garden Club of Northville at 6 area gardens & Mini Walk at condo gardens. $12/advance. $15/day of at Gardenviews & Northville Town Square. 734-788-9935. www.cgcnv.org. Concert Series at the Great Estate Thu, Jul 15, 7-9:30pm, Rochester. At Meadow Brook Hall. $30. Take in a night of live music & vibrant atmosphere. www.meadowbrookhall.org. Gladwin County Garden Tour Thu, Jul 15, 10am-7pm, Gladwin. By Gladwin Gardeners & Riverwalk Place. $10/presale, $12/day of. Artist market vendors. Benefits the Trail of Two Cities Gladwin County Trail Network. 989-329-7470. Facebook: @GladwinGardenTour. Butterfly Meeting Thu, Jul 15, 7pm, on Zoom. By SE Michigan Butterfly Assoc. Presentation topic TBD. www.sembabutterfly.org. The Art of Benton Harbor Guided Day Trip Fri, Jul 16, 10am-2pm, Benton Harbor. By Frederik Meijer Gardens. $60. Meet up for a guided tour to experience the outdoor public sculptures curated by the Krasl Art Center. www.meijergardens.org Pine Concert Series Fri, Jul 16, 7-8:30pm, Midland. At Dow Gardens. Enjoy a summer concert series showcasing regional musicians surrounded by the beauty of Dow Gardens. www.dowgardens.org. Trenton Garden Walk Sat, Jul 17, 10am-4pm, Trenton. View 6 gardens in Trenton. $10/person. Call Glenda Albright: 734-281-6504. Butterfly Garden Walk at Brenda Dziedzic’s Sat, Jul 17, Westland. By SE Michigan Butterfly Assoc. at Brenda Dziedzic’s Butterfly Habitat. www.sembabutterfly.org. 15th Annual Clarkston Garden Walk Wed, Jul 21, 11am-7pm, Clarkston. By Clarkston Garden Club. $15 pre-sale, $18 day of. www.clarkstongardenclub.org. Flowers in the Cutting Garden Wed, Jul 21, 10am, Rochester Hills. By Rochester Garden Club at Van Hoosen Farm. Bring a chair. www.rochestergardenclub.org. Harrison Township Garden Tour Sat, Jul 24, 9am-4pm, Harrison Twp. By Harrison Twp Beautification Commission at 8 area gardens. $10 pre-sale at Harrison Twp. offices. $15 day-of at Tucker Senior Ctr. Register/map pick up at Senior Ctr. Masks required. 586-242-3868, keehns@wowway.com.

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September/October 2021 April 2022

Deadline August 15, 2021 March 15, 2022

MichiganGardener.com | July/August 2021 | Michigan Gardener

SUMMER COLOR PLANTS Abbott’s will continue to bring in an outstanding selection of the plants that gardeners are looking for, all summer long!

Groundcover Plants Tue, Aug 10, 6:30pm, online. By Master Gardener Society of Oakland County. Presenter: Julia Hofley. www.mgsoc.info/calendar-of-events. Concert Series at the Great Estate Thu, Aug 12, 7-9:30pm, Rochester. At Meadow Brook Hall. $30. Take in a night of live music & vibrant atmosphere. www.meadowbrookhall.org.

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Butterfly Meeting Thu, Aug 19, 7pm, on Zoom. By SE Michigan Butterfly Assoc. Presentation topic TBD. www.sembabutterfly.org.

Kalamazoo County Master Gardener Training Fri, Aug 20, 4-8pm, Fridays through Nov 26, via Zoom. By MSU Extension. imbodenl@msu.edu.

Beauty from Bulbs: Part 1 Thu, Aug 26, 9-10:15am, on Zoom. By APG. Members only webinar. To join: www.associationofprofessionalgardeners.org Dahlia Show Sat, Aug 28, 12-5pm, & Sun, Aug 29, 11am-5pm, Grand Rapids. At Frederik Meijer Gardens. Stroll through a room filled with dahlia blooms & a rainbow of color. www.meijergardens.org. Summer Faire Sat, Aug 28, 10am-5pm & Sun, Aug 29, 11am-4pm, Fenton. At Heavenly Scent Herb Farm. $3. More than 50 vendors. Hand-crafted garden accessories. www.heavenlyscentherbfarm.com. Kent County Master Gardener Training Tue, Aug 31, 4-8pm, Tuesdays through Nov 30, via Zoom. By MSU Extension. imbodenl@msu.edu. continued on page 29

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Upper Peninsula Master Gardener Training Thu, Aug 19, 5:30-9:30pm, Thursdays through Nov 18, via Zoom. By MSU Extension. imbodenl@msu.edu.

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August Yoga in the Gardens Tue, Aug 3, 6-7pm, Bloomfield Hills. At Cranbrook. $15. Meet at the reflecting pond. Register by Noon on day of class. Many other dates available. www.housegardens.cranbrook.edu. Summer Potluck Picnic Luncheon: An English Garden Wed, Aug 4, 11:30am, Grand Rapids. By Kent Garden Club at a member’s home. Guests welcome. www.kentgardenclub.org. Three Sisters Garden Wed, Aug 4, 10am, Rochester Hills. By Rochester Garden Club at Van Hoosen Farm. Bring a chair. www.rochestergardenclub.org. Summer Foraging Guided Day Trip Thu, Aug 5, 11am-3pm, Grand Rapids. By Frederik Meijer Gardens. $70. Discover how sustainable foraging can be a powerful way to deepen your connection with the natural environment. 616-974-5225. Yardeners of St. Clair Shores Annual Garden Tour Sat, Aug 7, 9am-3pm, St. Clair Shores. By The Yardeners. $5/person. Under 12 free. Registration, tickets, maps at Selinsky-Green Farmhouse Museum. Self-guided driving tour. Rain/shine. scsyardeners@gmail.com Mindfulness in Nature Camp for Kids Tue, Aug 10, to Thur, Aug 12, 9:30am-12:30pm (ages 5-8) & 1:30-4:30pm (ages 9-12), Niles. At Fernwood Botanical Garden. $225/camper. www.fernwoodbotanical.org. Tour of Four Star Greenhouse Tue, Aug 10, 1pm, Carleton. By APG at Four Star Greenhouse. www.associationofprofessionalgardeners.org.

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Orchid Society Picnic & Orchid Mart Sat, Jul 24, Details TBA. www.greaterlansingorchidsociety.com Butterfly Garden Walk at John Blair’s Sat, Jul 24, By SE Michigan Butterfly Assoc. at John Blair’s. www.sembabutterfly.org. 27th Annual Garden City Garden Walk Sat, Jul 24, 10am-3pm, Garden City. By Garden City Garden Club. $15/person. Tickets available at Barson’s. Includes lunch at Straight Farmhouse. Vendor show, plant sale, door prizes. 25th Annual Kirtland Garden Tour Sat, Jul 24, 9am-4pm, Higgins Lake & Houghton Lake. By Kirtland Garden Club. Self-guided. $10. Tickets go on sale July 1 at 7 locations in Roscommon County. Ticket info: Steph 732-684-5497. Arts in the Garden Benefit Walk Sun, Jul 25, 10am-4pm, Chelsea. By Chelsea Area Garden Club at 3 distinctive gardens. Starts at the Intergenerational Garden, 512 Washington St. $20/person. Rain or shine. Tickets June 15-24 at Chelsea Senior Center, Garden Mill & Grass Lake Senior Center. chelseaseniors.org. 734-475-9748. Open Gate Garden Club Garden Tour Sun, Jul 25, 10am-4pm, Fenton. By Open Gate Garden Club at area gardens. $8 in advance at Bordine’s, Gerych’s, & Yard ‘N Garden Center, $10 day of at A.J. Phillips Fenton Museum. Children under 12 free & encouraged to wear wings/antennae. Find us on Facebook. Concert Series at the Great Estate Thu, Jul 29, 7-9:30pm, Rochester. At Meadow Brook Hall. $30. Take in a night of live music & vibrant atmosphere. www.meadowbrookhall.org. MSU Tollgate Re-Opening Celebration Sat, Jul 31, 2-8pm, Novi. At MSU Tollgate. $5/adult. $3/ under 12. Music, wagon rides, garden tours & much more. www.canr.msu.edu.

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through the lens Photographs from Michigan gardeners

Send Us Your Photos! 1. E-mail 2 or 3 of your best garden photos to: photos@MichiganGardener.com. We are looking for photos of your garden, both wide-angle and plant close-ups. Be sure to e-mail a high-resolution file. 2. Please include your full name and a caption describing the scene and the plants.

“After reading “How-To Grow and Care for Iris” in Michigan Gardener June 2020, I gathered up all the non-bloomers around my yard and relocated them to this sunny spot. The result is this spectacular display.” —Carol Mason

“This tree frog is going for a closer look at the hanging pot of calibrachoa.” —Mary Kwas

Peonies, lupine, and iris beautify the small but satisfying backyard of Chuck and Sharon Brennecke.

MichiganGardener.com | July/August 2021 | Michigan Gardener

Everything You Need to Live in Your Garden This Summer!

Classified Ads NEED A HAND? Call “The little gardener that could.” 15 yrs experience at Botanical Gardens. FREE Estimates. Pat: 586-2149852, agardenspace.com. NEED TO REPLACE SOME GRASS? We provide top quality sod grass to metro Detroit homeowners like you. Hillcrest Sod Farms has been growing quality sod for over 50 years. We provide sod to Do-It-Yourselfers or we can do the entire installation for you. A half century of experience has taught us to treat our customers like family—personalized care and attention is what you can expect from Hillcrest. For a free estimate, call 734-9419595 and ask for Mike or Caryl. Or visit www.sodfarm.com to learn more. BELLEFLEUR GARDEN SERVICE - Private professional gardeners. Maintenance, planting, garden renewal & more. 30 years in business. Call Karen 248-882-7579 or Heather 810-734-2648.

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ZOOM GARDEN SPEAKER AVAILABLE for your club or group. Well-traveled garden writer does virtual garden presentations & travelogues. This active collector gardener can speak on many subjects. For presentation list, biography, fee & references, contact Julia Hofley at Julia@juliasbiglife. com. 248-497-2674. Find me on Facebook. MICHIGAN GARDENER E-NEWSLETTER - Sign up for our free e-newsletter! We send out a few each year, and there are contests to win prizes as well. (No spam, and we do not share your e-mail.) Go to www. MichiganGardener.com and simply enter your e-mail address. Michigan Gardener Classified Advertising is a cost-effective way to promote yourself and your business. Need help? Have help to give? Have a big event coming up? Have items to sell? Let our readers know! Go to MichiganGardener.com >> “Advertising” >> “Classified Advertising.”

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110 S. MAIN • DOWNTOWN CHELSEA • 734-475-3539 • www.thegardenmill.com

Precipitation May 2021

NORMAL Monthly 3.72 3.68 3.66

NORMAL Yr. to Date 13.72 12.45 12.82

Detroit Flint Lansing

ACTUAL Monthly 2.23 1.77 1.20

May 2020 DEVIATION from Normal -1.49 -1.91 -2.46

2021 Year to Date: Jan 1 - May 31 continued from page 27

September EdibleWow Wed, Sep 8, 1pm, online. By Troy Garden Club. Robb Harper, founder & former publisher of edibleWow magazine will present. Register: infoandideas@aol.com. Between a Rock and a Hard Place: A Floral Trip Down Under Thu, Sep 9, Noon, location TBD. By Kent Garden Club. Presented by Ian Warnock. www.kentgardenclub.org, kentgardenclub1913@gmail.com. Veggie Harvest and Storage Sat, Sep 11, 10am, online. By MSU Extension. MSU Tollgate Farm HomeGrown Gardening Series. $10/session or $75/ series. A monthly virtual series designed to encourage & support home vegetable gardeners. Moving and Transplanting Plants Tue, Sep 14, 6:30pm, online. By Master Gardener Society of Oakland County. Presenter: Janet Macunovich. www.mgsoc.info/calendar-of-events. Grand River Development Wed, Sep 15, By Kent Garden Club at a Veteran’s Home. Presented by David Marquardt. www.KentGardenClub.org. Butterfly Meeting Thu, Sep 16, 7pm, on Zoom. By SE Michigan Butterfly Assoc. Presentation topic TBD. www.sembabutterfly.org. Yardeners Plant Exchange Sat, Sep 18, 9-11am, St. Clair Shores. By The Yardeners at St. Clair Shores Library Parking Lot. Free. Bag, tag & drag your offerings to trade or give away to other gardeners. scsyardeners@gmail.com. Ann Arbor Farm & Garden Fall Mini Garden Walk Sun, Sep 19, TBD. Save the date. www.annarborfarmandgarden.org. Concert Series at the Great Estate Thu, Sep 23, 7-9:30pm, Rochester. At Meadow Brook Hall. $30. Take in a night of live music & vibrant atmosphere. www.meadowbrookhall.org. Using Native Plants in Urban Settings & Small Lots Fri, Sep 24, 10am, online. By Meadow Brook Garden Club on Zoom. $5. Carolyn Miller presents. Request link: MBGCmembers@gmail.com. 248-364-6210, www.meadowbrookhall.org.

October Judith Tankard Book Talk Tue, Oct 5, Time TBA. Judith Tankard presents her books “The Gardens of Ellen Biddle Shipman” and “Gardens of the Arts and Crafts Movement.” www.gpgardencenter.org Pruning: Learn It Before You Get Snippy Mon, Oct 11, St. Clair Shores. By The Yardeners at St. Clair Shores Library (tentatively). Discover the best time & proper methods to prune your landscape plants. Presented by Sue Grubba. scsyardeners@gmail.com Well and Lesser Known Insects of the Midwest Tue, Oct 12, 6:30pm, online. By Master Gardener Society of Oakland County. Presenter: David Lowenstein. mgsoc.info/calendar-of-events. A Brief History of the Modern Dahlia Wed, Oct 13, 1pm, online. By Troy Garden Club online. Presented by Keith Berven, President of Southeastern Michigan Dahlia Society. Register: infoandideas@aol.com. Use of Conifers in the Landscape Wed, Oct 13, Noon, Byron. By Kent Garden Club at Everett’s Gardens. Presented by Leslie Hammond. www.kentgardenclub.org. SEMBA Meeting Thu, Oct 21, 7pm, on Zoom. By SE Michigan Butterfly Assoc. Presentation topic TBD. www.sembabutterfly.org. Scent of the Holiday Spirit Fri, Oct 22, 10am, online. By Meadow Brook Garden Club. $5. Colleen K. Dodt presents. Request link: MBGCmembers@gmail.com. 248-364-6210, www.meadowbrookhall.org. Concert Series at the Great Estate Fri, Oct 29, 7-9:30pm, Rochester. At Meadow Brook Hall. $30. Take in a night of live music & vibrant atmosphere. www.meadowbrookhall.org.

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Detroit Flint Lansing

ACTUAL Yr. to Date 8.65 7.92 7.34

NORMAL

Monthly 3.38 3.08 3.36

ACTUAL Monthly 3.62 5.36 6.05

DEVIATION from Normal +0.24 +2.28 +2.69

2020 Year to Date: Jan 1 - May 31

NORMAL

DEVIATION from Normal -5.07 -4.53 -5.48

Yr. to Date 12.54 10.99 11.57

ACTUAL Yr. to Date 14.97 13.76 16.78

DEVIATION from Normal +2.43 +2.77 +5.21

Temperature May 2021

May 2020

Detroit Flint Lansing

NORMAL Avg. High 69.9 68.5 68.8

ACTUAL Avg. High 69.8 69.3 69.1

DEVIATION from Normal -0.1 +0.8 +0.3

ORMAL N Avg. High 69.9 68.5 68.8

ACTUAL Avg. High 66.7 68.9 66.7

DEVIATION from Normal -3.2 +0.4 -2.1

Detroit Flint Lansing

NORMAL Avg. Low 49.4 45.3 46.7

ACTUAL Avg. Low 48.2 44.7 44.6

DEVIATION from Normal -1.2 -0.6 -2.1

ORMAL N Avg. Low 49.4 45.3 46.7

ACTUAL Avg. Low 48.7 47.9 46.7

DEVIATION from Normal -0.7 +2.6 0.0

Data courtesy National Weather Service

. k o o L t Don’

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almont H American Tree 3903 Van Dyke Rd, MI 48003 810-798-2525 www.americantreeinc.com Brohl’s Flower Gard ann arbor H Abbott’s Nurs & Garden Ctr 2781 Scio Church Rd, MI 48103 734-665-8733 www.abbottsnursery.com H Downtown Home/Gard 210 S Ashley St, MI 48104 734-662-8122 www.downtownhomeandgarden.com H HillTop Greenhse/Farms

H Lodi Farms 2880 S. Wagner Rd, MI 48103 734-665-5651 www.lodifarms.com H The Produce Station H Turner’s Greenhse & Garden Ctr 4431 South Wagner Rd, MI 48103 734-663-7600 www.turnersannarbor.com Wild Birds Unltd armada Pond Guy auburn H Warmbier Farms 5300 Garfield Rd, MI 48611 989-662-7002 www.warmbierfarms.com

auburn hills H Haley Stone H State Crushing bancroft Grand Oak Herb Farm bay city H Begick Nursery & Garden Ctr 5993 Westside Saginaw Rd, MI 48706 989-684-4210 www.begicknursery.com belleville H Banotai Greenhse Gardeners Choice H Pinter Flowerland H Zywicki Greenhse berkley Garden Central birmingham H Blossoms

brownstown twp Bruce’s Pond Shop Raupp Brothers Gard Ctr H Ruhlig Farms & Gard 24508 Telegraph Rd, MI 48134 734-782-9811 www.ruhligfarmsandgardens.com bruce twp

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blissfield H Ogden Station Daylilies 7120 Hodges Hwy, MI 49228 517-443-5530 www.ogdenstationdaylilies.com bloomfield hills H Fleurdetroit 1507 Old S. Telegraph Rd, MI 48302 248-953-3840 www.fleurdetroit.com brighton Bordine’s Brighton Stone H Grasshopper Gardens Leppek Nurs H Meier Flowerland 8087 W. Grand River, MI 48114 810-229-9430 www.meierflowerland.com

H Van’s Valley Greenhouse 74865 Van Dyke Rd, MI 48065 586-752-6002 www.vansvalley.com burton H Country Oaks Landscp Supp H Walker Farms & Greenhouse 5253 E. Atherton Rd, MI 48519 810-743-0260 www.walkersfarm.com canton Canton Floral Gardens Schmidt’s Roadside Wild Birds Unltd chelsea H Garden Mill 110 S. Main St, MI 48118 734-475-3539 www.thegardenmill.com The Potting Shed chesterfield H Van Thomme’s Greenhses

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clarkston Bordine’s H Country Oaks Landscp Supp Lowrie’s Landscp clinton twp H English Gardens 44850 Garfield Rd, MI 48038 586-286-6100 www.englishgardens.com Michigan Koi Tropical Treasures clio H Piechnik’s Greenhouse 13172 McCumsey Rd, MI 48420 810-686-9211 www.cliogreenhouse.com columbus Haack’s Farm Greenhses commerce twp H Zoner’s Greenhouse 2355 E. Commerce Rd, MI 48382 248-363-6742 www.zonersgreenhouse.com davison H Wojo’s Gard Splendors 7360 E. Court St, MI 48423 810-658-9221 www.wojos.com dearborn Fairlane Gardens dearborn heights H English Gardens 22650 Ford Rd, MI 48127 313-278-4433 www.englishgardens.com detroit Eastern Market dexter H Dexter Mill Earth Art H Fraleighs Landscape Nursery 8600 Jackson Rd, MI 48130 734-426-5067 www.fraleighs.com eastpointe Drew’s Garden H English Gardens 22501 Kelly Rd, MI 48021 586-771-4200 www.englishgardens.com farmington hills Angelo’s Landscp Supp Farmer John’s Greenhse H Steinkopf Nursery 20815 Farmington Rd., MI 48336 248-474-2925 www.steinkopfnursery.com fenton H Gerych’s Greenhouse & Flowers 713 W Silver Lake Rd., MI 48430 810-629-5995 www.gerychsdesign.com H Heavenly Scent Herb Farm 13730 White Lake Rd, MI 48430 810-629-9208 www.heavenlyscentherbfarm.com

gladwin H Stone Cottage Gardens 3740 West Willford Rd, MI 48624 989-426-2919 www.stonecottagegardens.com grand blanc Bordine’s Sunrise Greenhouse H The Weed Lady 9225 Fenton Rd, MI 48439 810-655-2723 www.theweedlady.com grass lake H Designs by Judy Florist & Greenhse 3250 Wolf Lake Rd, MI 49240 517-522-5050 www.designsbyjudyflowers.com grosse ile H Westcroft Gardens & Farm 21803 West River Rd, MI 48138 734-676-2444 www.westcroftgardens.com grosse pointe Allemon’s Landscp Ctr Otherworld GP grosse pointe woods Wild Birds Unltd hadley H Le Fleur Décor 3442 Hadley Rd, MI 48440 586-495-4076 Find us on Facebook hartland Deneweth’s Garden Ctr haslett Christian’s Greenhse H Van Atta’s Greenhse 9008 Old M-78, MI 48840 517-339-1142 www.vanattas.com highland Colasanti’s Produce/Plant Fragments Highland Garden Ctr Rock Bottom Landscp Supp Thornton Nurs howell Penrose Nurs H Specialty Growers 4330 Golf Club Rd, MI 48843 517-546-7742 www.specialtygrowers.net H Superior Landscape Supplies 4805 Musson Rd, MI 48855 517-548-2068 Find us on Facebook Wilczewski Greenhses imlay city Earthly Arts Greenhse Schutz’s Tree Farm Super & Sons Nurs jackson Hobbit Greenhouses kalamazoo H Wedel’s Nursery, Florist & Gdn Ctr 5020 Texas Dr, MI 49009 269-345-1195 www.wedels.com

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

H Orion Stone Depot 4888 Joslyn Rd, MI 48359 248-391-2490 www.orionstone.com lansing Lansing Gardens

lapeer H The Iron Barn lasalle Fowler’s Gift Shop lennon Stone Case Inc. livonia Bushel Mart George’s Livonia Gardens Valley Nurs macomb Altermatt Farms Boyka’s Greenhse H Brohl’s Greenhse Deneweth’s Garden Ctr H Elya’s Village Gardens Landscape Source Joe Randazzo’s Nurs Olejnik Farms Wiegand’s Nursery Wild Birds Unltd manchester McLennan Nurs mason H Wildtype Nurs milford Milford Gardens H The Pond Place monroe The Flower Market new baltimore H Meldrum Bros Nurs new boston H Grass Roots Pond & Garden 24765 Bell Rd, MI 48164 734-753-9200 www.grassrootspondandgarden.com new hudson Fletcher & Rickard Landscp Supp north branch H Campbell’s Greenhouses 4077 Burnside Rd, MI 48461 810-688-3587 www.campbellsgreenhouses.com H Oldani Landscape Nurseries 2666 Tozer Rd, MI 48461 810-688-2363 www.oldanilandscapenurseries.com northville Begonia Brothers Gardenviews at Home H Willow Greenhouse 7839 Curtis Rd, MI 48168 248-437-7219 www.willowgreenhouse.com novi Glenda’s Gard Ctr Wild Birds Unltd oak park Four Seasons Gard Ctr oakland twp H Piechnik’s Garden Ctr 1095 N. Rochester Rd, MI 48363 586-336-7200 www.cliogreenhouse.com ortonville Bedrock Express H Wojo’s Greenhse 2570 Oakwood Rd, MI 48462 248-627-6498 www.wojos.com owosso H Everlastings in Wildwood Crooked Tree Nurs Sunburst Gardens oxford Dafoe’s Feed & Seed

plymouth H English Gardens Plymouth Nurs 9900 Ann Arbor Rd W, MI 48170 734-453-5500 www.englishgardens.com Graye’s Greenhse Plymouth Rock & Supp H Rock Shoppe Sparr’s Greenhse pontiac Goldner Walsh Gard/Home ray Heritage Oaks redford H Pinter Flowerland richmond Jusko’s Greenhse rochester Fogler’s Greenhse Sherwood Forest Gard Ctr rochester hills H Auburn Oaks Garden Ctr 3820 West Auburn Rd, MI 48309 248-852-2310 www.auburnoaksnursery.com Bordine’s H Haley Stone Wild Birds Unltd romulus Block’s Stand/Greenhse Kurtzhals’ Farms Rush Gard Ctr Schwartz’s Greenhouse roseville H Dale’s Landscaping Supply 16720 E 13 Mile Rd, MI 48066 586-778-1919 www.daleslandscaping.com Flower Barn Nurs Sea World royal oak H English Gardens 4901 Coolidge Hwy, MI 48073 248-280-9500 www.englishgardens.com Wild Birds Unltd saginaw H Abele Greenhouse & Garden Ctr 3500 Wadsworth Rd, MI 48601 989-752-5625 www.abelegreenhouse.com saline H Clink Landscaping & Nursery 9403 W. Michigan Ave, MI 48176 734-495-3779 www.clinklandscaping.com KBK Gard Ctr Saline Flowerland shelby twp Diegel’s Greenhse H Hessell’s Greenhouse Maeder Plant Farm H Telly’s Greenhouse 4343 24 Mile, MI 48316 248-659-8555 www.tellys.com south lyon Mike’s Garden Stone Depot Landscp Supp southfield H Eagle Landscp/Supp 20779 Lahser Rd., MI 48034 248-356-4342 https://eaglelandscapesupply.com Lavin’s Flower Land H Main’s Landscp Supp

st clair shores Greenhouse Growers Hall’s Nurs Soulliere Gard Ctr sterling heights Decor Statuette H Eckert’s Greenhouse 34051 Ryan Rd, MI 48310 586-264-5678 www.eckertsgreenhouse.com Prime Landscp Supp stockbridge Gee Farms superior twp Lucas Nurs sylvan lake H AguaFina Gardens International 2629 Orchard Lake Rd, MI 48320 248-738-0500 www.aguafina.com Detroit Garden Works taylor D&L Garden Ctr Massab Acres Greenhse H Panetta’s Landscp Supp tecumseh Mitchell’s Lawn/Landscp trenton Carefree Lawn Ctr troy H Telly’s Greenhouse 3301 John R Rd, MI 48083 248-689-8735 www.tellys.com H Uncle Luke’s Feed Store 6691 Livernois Rd, MI 48098 248-879-9147 www.unclelukes.com utica Stonescape Supp walled lake H Suburban Landscp Supp warren Beste’s Lawn/Patio Supp Kutchey Family Mkt washington Landscp Direct Rocks ‘n’ Roots waterford Breen’s Landscp Supp H Merritt Home Design 5940 Cooley Lake Rd., MI 48327 248-681-7955 www.merritthomedesigns.com west bloomfield H English Gardens 6370 Orchard Lake Rd, MI 48322 248-851-7506 www.englishgardens.com westland H Barson’s Greenhse 6414 North Merriman Rd, MI 48185 734-421-5959 www.barsons.com Bushel Stop Joe Randazzo’s Nurs Merlino’s Bushel Ctr Panetta’s Landscp white lake H Bogie Lake Greenhouses 1525 Bogie Lake Rd, MI 48383 248-887-5101 www.bogielakegreenhouses.com H Mulligan’s Landscp & Gard Ctr 8215 Elizabeth Lake Rd, MI 48386 248-698-4741 www.mulliganlandscaping.com Sunshine Plants

whitmore lake H Alexander Farm Mkt & Greenhouses 6925 Whitmore Lake Rd, MI 48189 734-741-1064 Find us on Facebook Green Oak Gard williamston Christians Greenhse wixom Angelo’s Landscp Supp H Milarch Nurs 28500 Haas Rd, MI 48393 248-437-2094 www.milarchnursery.com Milford Tree Farm ypsilanti Coleman’s Farm Mkt H Margolis Nurs Materials Unlimited Mich Greenscape Supp H Sell Farms & Greenhouses 7200 Willis Rd, MI 48197 734-484-3819 www.sellfarmsandgreenhouses.com Superior Farm & Garden

Gardens to Visit ann arbor Matthaei Botanical Gardens/ Nichols Arboretum battle creek Leila Arboretum blissfield H Ogden Station Daylilies AHS Display Garden 7120 Hodges Hwy, MI 49228 517-443-5530 www.ogdenstationdaylilies.com bloomfield hills H Cranbrook Gardens clinton twp Tomlinson Arboretum dearborn Arjay Miller Arboretum @Ford World HQ Henry Ford Estate detroit Anna S Whitcomb Conservtry, Belle Isle Lafayette Greens dryden Seven Ponds Nature Ctr east lansing H MSU Horticulture Gardens W.J. Beal Botanical Gard emmett H Sunny Fields Botanical Park 5444 Welch Rd, MI 48022 810-387-2765 www.visitsunnyfields.org flint Applewood Estate grand rapids Frederik Meijer Gardens grosse pointe shores Edsel & Eleanor Ford Hse lansing Cooley Gardens midland Dahlia Hill Dow Gardens novi Tollgate Education Ctr rochester Meadow Brook Hall & Gardens taylor Taylor Conservatory & Botanical Gard tipton H Hidden Lake Gardens 6214 Monroe Rd (M-50), MI 49287 517-431-2060 www.hiddenlakegardens.msu.edu

Michigan Gardener | July/August 2021 | MichiganGardener.com

This lovely view gets even more lush at ground level amongst the plants. continued from back cover On the other side of the drive there are annuals mixed in with the perennials and shrubs for a colorful display all season long. Kathy has included pollinator plants such as bee balm (Monarda), swamp milkweed (Asclepias), and yarrow, adding gray plants such as lamb’s ears and tall spiky iris, keeping in mind color and texture. The soil is extremely sandy and dry. Even though they do not have an in-ground sprinkler system, there are strategically placed sprinklers that are turned on as needed.

Deterring the deer In the mostly wooded two acres, the Mikuskas have incorporated as many plants as they can find that deer will not eat. They are a huge problem in this wooded subdivision. Kathy’s favorite shrub is the bottlebrush buckeye (Aesculus parviflora) and luckily the deer

leave it alone. Another favorite deer-resistant shrub is clumping bamboo (Fargesia rufa). There are countless Lenten roses (hellebores), ferns, and rodgersias, also left untouched. Kathy has found ways to deter the plantmarauding deer herd. One way involves spraying plants such as daylilies, hydrangeas, begonias, hostas, and other susceptible plants. She sprays often to ensure no tempting plants are nibbled. Another way she keeps them away is with tomato trellises. Yes, tomato trellises—the type you make into a triangle to support large tomato plants. She unhooks them and then rehooks them together to make small fences. Of course, since they aren’t eight feet tall, the deer can jump over them. The key is to layer the fences. She installs three rows of the fencing about 16 to 20 feet apart in the areas the deer use as paths through her garden. The trick behind this fencing installation is the fact that deer don’t have good depth percep-

tion, so the three rows of short (three-foot) fence can be seen by the deer, but not the distance between them, making the deer leery to jump over them. What a great idea! The green color of the fencing disappears in the shade of the trees and the fence that may be visible is camouflaged by Kathy with carefully placed shrubs. When a pest cannot be totally controlled in your garden, you have to learn to manage it the best way you can. By spraying susceptible plants and carefully placing the fences, the Mikuska garden has minimal deer damage.

Plant selections Jim and Kathy have found, as we all eventually do, that the best way to garden is to plant more of what works with the environment and what grows well. Also, as the garden ages, the trees are growing larger and text continued on page 34

A miniature fairy dress made with a faux snake plant (Sansevieria) skirt.

MichiganGardener.com | July/August 2021 | Michigan Gardener

This umbrella plant (Darmera peltata) is cleverly surrounded by an underskirt of ‘All Gold’ Japanese forest grass.

A large floral mannequin greeted guests at the door during a recent garden walk.

Kathy has creatively decorated the front porch with grape vine wreaths and fairy statues.

The hill near the top of the driveway is held back by large boulders, which the Mikuskas had professionally installed.

Michigan Gardener | July/August 2021 | MichiganGardener.com

V Website Extra Go to MichiganGardener.com and click on “Website Extras” for more photos of the Mikuska garden.

text continued from page 32 casting more shade, so the plant choices have changed. The garden is a blend of natives and cultivated varieties. These include ligularia, brunnera, mukdenia, Canadian wild ginger, European ginger, epimedium, lirope, yellow waxbells (Kirengeshoma palmata), and twinleaf (Jeffersonia diphylla). In the spring there are Virginia bluebells, celandine poppies, cushion spurge, woodland phlox, and hyacinths. They long ago gave up the idea of “color” in the garden throughout the season and decided that green was their color. When you live in the shade, your options are decidedly less, but there are shades of green from dark forest green to bright chartreuse, adding many colorful layers to any garden. One of the colors they do not have is “grass green,” as there is no turf grass. No lawn mowing is happening here. As you might imagine, this large garden requires a good deal of maintenance, and the couple have recently hired some help to get it all done. As I meandered through the garden during the garden walk, my eye was drawn to the many fairy dresses scattered throughout. Kathy was inspired by a mannequin display covered in flowers she had seen at Matthaei

The walk leading around the side of the house features tones of green, yellow and white. Tropical containers add some height and color punch.

Approaching the house from the main road, it is clear that gardeners live here!

MichiganGardener.com | July/August 2021 | Michigan Gardener

The side garden is planted with hostas, maidenhair ferns, and New Guinea impatiens, all of which are sprayed to keep the deer away.

P H OTO G R A P H S BY L I S A S T E I N KO P F

Kathy added these trellises to cover the plain garage wall with chocolate vine (Akebia).

Calycanthus is a wonderful shrub that flowers in the shade and the deer leave alone.

Botanical Gardens. She decided to make her own version using artificial flowers and plants so they would last longer. On the day of the walk, a flower-covered mannequin was the garden greeter on the front porch. Kathy also makes adorable, miniature versions for the fairies. She not only is creative in the garden but artistically as well. Kathy says, “Everyone is creative if they just let their inner child come out.” How true! Kathy said the garden has taught her and Jim patience, perseverance and optimism. They love the serenity and solitude they enjoy in their large secluded garden. Lisa Steinkopf is The Houseplant Guru. Check out her newly updated website and blog at www.thehouseplantguru.com. Contact Lisa to speak at your next club meeting or event (houseplantgurulisa@gmail.com or 734-7481241). Follow her on Facebook (Facebook.com/ HouseplantGuru), Twitter (@houseplantguru), and Instagram (houseplantguru).

| July/August 2021 | MichiganGardener.com

Serenity in the shade

The grand driveway entrance is loaded with beautiful plants and is a warm welcome to everyone that arrives at the Mikuska home.

With choice woodland plants and deer deterring techniques, Jim and Kathy Mikuska enjoy the solitude of their large garden

hen Jim and Kathy Mikuska laid the foundation for their garden 30 years ago, they each brought plants from their respective homes. These science teachers by day not only designed the garden, but also their home, with the help of an architect. They combined their lives as well as their plants, adding many more over the years to make a cohesive, gorgeous garden that belongs to them both. As all gardens do, it has changed and grown over the years and is still changing today. I first saw the Mi-

kuska garden on a garden walk and loved it. We eventually were able to get together to do a story about their garden and I am happy to share it with you. When I first arrived at their Livingston County garden, I knew it was going to be special. Their subdivision is comprised of large parcels of land (two acres) in a wooded, hilly community. As I slowly passed other driveways, they were quite

Lisa Steinkopf

inconspicuous except for the mailbox. So I knew immediately that I was at a gardener’s home when the Mikuska driveway appeared. The roadside garden is one of the most beautiful on the property and the sunniest by far. It stretches from the neighbor’s drive all the way to theirs and continues on the other side. Kathy has thoughtfully used plants in ascending heights, starting with pachysandra with

purple barberry, bird’s nest spruce, Japanese forest grass (Hakonechloa macra ‘All Gold’), ‘Sun King’ aralia, and ‘Red Prince’ weigela. I loved the large leaves of the umbrella plant (Darmera peltata) surrounded by a skirt of the ‘All Gold’ forest grass. Kathy has found that the ‘All Gold’ form of the forest grass does better in the shade than the variegated one, learning that it needs at least four hours of sun to grow well. continued on page 32

Michigan Gardener - July/August 2021

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Perennials: Rudbeckia

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