Michigan Gardener - June 2022 by Michigan Gardener

June 2022

MichiganGardener.com

Feature

How to build a butterfly garden, Part 2

Thyme for Herbs

Herbs for the barbeque grill

Perennials Campanula

Tree Tips

How to properly mulch your trees

New Plants

New perennials for 2022

Vegetable Patch Insects in the garden

Please thank our advertisers in this issue

Your guide to Great Lakes gardening

Welcome to where More new plantsSummer than always comes up roses. you’ll see ANYWHERE!

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Garden Wisdom

NEW & CHOICE varieties

The glory of gardening: hands in the dirt, head in the sun, heart with nature. To nurture a garden is to feed not just the body, but the soul. —Alfred Austin

Fresh shipments arrive throughout the season. Stop in to see the latest gems!

Hellebores

Ask MG............................................................6 Fothergillas

To-Do List........................................................8 Vegetable Patch..........................................10 Books for the Michigan Gardener........12 Tree Tips........................................................ 14

Walters Gardens

New Perennials for 2022 ....................... 18 Thyme for Herbs......................................... 24 Perennials: Campanula ............................ 28 Where to pick up Michigan Gardener..................................... 38

On the cover: This mallow (Malva alcea ‘Fastigiata’) is a clump-forming perennial that features pink, hollyhocklike flowers, 2 inches wide.

Classified Ads............................................. 39

Photo: Eric Hofley / Michigan Gardener

Advertiser Index.........................................35 Redbuds

To Our Readers...

Walters Gardens

Perennial Alliums

Weather Wrap........................................... 39 Calendar........................................................40 Profile: Reviving a historic home and garden......................................44 Through the Lens......................................49 Places to Grow...........................................50 How to: Make a Butterfly Garden - Part 2.........Back cover

us Calycanth

This June 2022 issue is the last issue for the season. We want to thank our advertisers for making this season possible. Michigan Gardener, your locally owned and published gardening magazine, would not exist without their support. We encourage you to visit our advertisers and purchase their products and services. Let them know you saw their ad in Michigan Gardener! If you have not done so, sign up for our free E-Newsletter. Simply visit our website (MichiganGardener.com) and enter your e-mail address (we do not send you any spam). To find local gardening events year-round, go to MichiganGardener.com and click on “Garden Event Calendar.” We update the online calendar regularly, so if you have events to promote, please send them to us.

Bleeding Hearts

Thank you and enjoy your summer and fall gardening seasons! —Eric Hofley and Jonathon Hofley

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Contributors Brian Allnutt Neil/Ruth Atzinger John Blair 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 Stephanie Surowiec Steve Turner Emily Wilson

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@michgardener

Publishing schedule Print: 3 issues per year: April, May, and June. Published the first week of the month. E-Newsletter: 8 issues per year: Spring to Fall. Back issues Back issues are available to read for free on our website. Go to www.MichiganGardener.com and click on “Digital Edition.” Copyright © 2022 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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Alternatives to turf grass What are the best lawn alternatives? Options will have to withstand dog traffic. Are clover lawns a good choice? J.K., Muskegon The Michigan State University Extension has several excellent bulletins on converting traditional turf lawns into alternative plantings to protect our pollinators. You are only limited by your imagination. If you plan to do it yourself, then do the research. Plants such as lilyturf (Liriope) are excellent on a flat or steep area. It can actually be mowed several times a year for a more lawn-like appearance or completely left natural. Consider using sedges (Carex) combined with perennial groundcovers such as creeping thyme, ajuga, or even native pachysandra (aka Allegheny spurge, Pachysandra procumbens). Even low-growing clover like white or Dutch microclover is a thrifty lawn alternative that still provides nectar and pollen for bees. Other short profile plants are heal-all (Prunella) and trefoil, which is in the sweet pea family. These can all withstand dog traffic. If you want more color in some areas, create a low maintenance prairie meadow, with flagstone paths through native plants of varying heights and textures. Reduce turf grass gradually with native flowerbeds and expand the ornamental plantings. Do not try to do it all at once if doing it yourself. If you want a more instant look, then use a professional who is experienced in converting turf grass into a no-mow alternative. They can work with you to plan the reduction of monoculture turf and create a sustainable landscape for less maintenance, less pesticide and herbicide use, and more benefits to pollinators.

Animal browsing on forsythia I see lots of forsythias and they don’t seem to be bothered by deer. So I bought some and before I even planted them, the deer started to eat the plants. Which forsythia varieties are most deer resistant? B.T., South Lyon Deer are observant and enterprising foragers. Anything new in the landscape in their browsing neighborhood will catch their eye and they will sample it. Newly introduced young shrubs are often nibbled when there isn’t quite enough general forage growth for them to feed. If hungry enough, deer will eat almost anything. Last year’s fawns are this year’s juveniles. They are adventurous and tend to sample many things before settling into a routine. Make sure that you have the right culprit as well. Deer will tear off stems and leaves, leaving behind a ragged tear, whereas rabbits will make a clean bite with their razor-

like incisors. Word to the wise, forsythias are generally deer resistant. But when newly set out, it is best to protect them with netting and a dose of critter repellent, either granular or spray. Unless a plant is full of pickers, smells bad or has furry leaves, it is fair game for deer and rabbits when they are hungry, especially early in the year. There are no completely deer-resistant plants. A new fresh plant or new fresh growth on a mature plant will be sniffed out by our woodsy companions as they browse the suburban landscape. If the new plants haven’t been mowed to the ground, trim them up, plant them anyway with compost-amended soil, and provide netting or repellent. The plants will recuperate but it may take all this season. Then knowing the circumstances, you can better prepare for next spring.

Grow vines on a trellis Which vines will do best on a four-foot tripod trellis in light shade? C.R. Trenton If you want a singular perennial vine that will work with elegance on a four-foot trellis in part shade, look at the varieties of clematis. Often called the queen of vines, clematis comes in many colors, from white to pink, red and purple. Even the flowers have different shapes; some are pinwheel while others are more openfaced like a pansy. After the flower petals drop, their seed heads provide another element of interest. Decide if you want early or late bloom-

ing, as each variety has a particular bloom time. Amend the planting area with compost, and once planted, keep its root zone cool. Use mulch over the root zone to help retain moisture and keep the soil temperature down. If you want warmer colors, like red or orange, look at the more delicate honeysuckle vines, such as ‘Dropmore Scarlet’ and ‘Major Wheeler.’ Both can manage their growth on the four-foot trellis. They also have the added benefit of being attractive to hummingbirds. If you want variety every year, look at annual vines. Nasturtiums (Tropaeolum majus)

Transplanting junipers What is the best time and method for transplanting 10-foot junipers in southeastern Michigan? D.C., Whitmore Lake You can transplant any time of year, so long as you weigh the weather against how much watering you plan to do. At ten feet, these are sizeable specimens. The root ball should be kept as intact as possible. Plant them so the root flare is level with the ground surface. Make the hole big enough to accommodate as many roots as possible and avoid wrapping roots around the plant. Spread 1/2 cup of granular starter fertilizer in the planting hole and backfill. The starter fertilizer stimulates growth of the hair-like feeder roots that nourish the tree. Keep the central leader straight as you gently tamp in the backfill. Water in well, and plan to deeply water every week, whether there is rain or not. If the soil is clay base, amend with pine bark fines or compost blended into the backfill to prevent the tree from sitting in a clay bowl of water. Because of their height, these trees will need to be staked for one year so that new roots can establish and anchor the tree in place. Put two stakes on opposite sides of the tree and secure with fabric straps in a figureeight pattern to allow support but also flexibility and slight movement. The stake is there to support the tree while it re-establishes its roots against heavy winds. Too much tension on the trunk will deform the stem. Doing the transplant during cooler weather would be ideal. The trees can focus on root development and not have to combat heat and drought. Early fall (September) or mid-spring are the ideal times to plant and transplant large specimens. In mid-spring the soil is warming up and they have an entire growing season to establish good root growth before facing the challenges of winter.

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are especially easy climbers to grow because they thrive on neglect. They are colorful and easy to train. You can also plant them with the ever-popular morning glory (Ipomoea), but choose something in red like ‘Scarlet O’Hara’ or ‘Red Picotee’ for added color punch. There is also black-eyed Susan vine (Thunbergia alata) with its cheerful yellow face and black center.

Plants for a narrow privacy screen What narrow but tall deer-resistant plants can be grown in Michigan? We need

a privacy screen next to our deck. J.R., East Lansing You don’t say how much depth you have to plant this screen. You need a minimum of three feet between the edge of your deck and the outer edge of the bed away from the deck. To counteract the “walled-in” effect while still achieving privacy, it is wise to mix two types of plants: an evergreen and a deciduous shrub. ‘Black Tower’ elderberry (Sambucus) is a strong vertical grower with rich purple-black foliage and pink summer flowers. Although deciduous, its dense, upright canopy of buff-

colored stems is attractive in winter. Another fast-growing shrub is Purple Pillar rose of Sharon (Hibiscus syriacus). It leafs out quickly and blooms late summer to early fall with lavender flowers. There is also a white-flowering version (White Pillar). These also have a dense, twiggy canopy that is great for winter screening. For an evergreen, look at ‘Sky Pencil’ holly (Ilex crenata). Extremely columnar and straight, their shiny green foliage looks great all year. They have a moderate growth rate and should be fertilized once a year. When

purchasing, get an odd number of them (i.e., 3, 5, 7) at least four feet tall and center them along the deck expanse with flowering shrubs on either end. Or if you want more flowers, plant two evergreens followed by a flowering shrub. Use that alternating pattern along the deck expanse, ending with two evergreens. Either pattern gives visual interest to your privacy screen and avoids the green-runway look brought on by a row of the same plant. Answers provided by Beverly Moss, owner of Garden Rhythms.

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Annuals

• Continue planting annuals as needed. • Remove spent flowers (deadhead) to encourage continuous blooming.

Feature Task: Caring for perennials during the summer Perennials are great plants for the garden. You only need to plant them once, unlike annuals, and perennials return each year bigger and better. They’re perfect for adding color or texture to any garden. There are hundreds of perennial varieties appropriate for any landscape, including extremes in sun, soil, and moisture. Once established, perennials will perform with only occasional fertilizing and pruning. Some even thrive on neglect! For continuous interest in your perennial garden, fill it with 25 percent spring bloomers, 50 percent summer bloomers, and 25 percent fall bloomers. Consider height, texture and color when selecting your plants. For best results, plant in odd numbers in one area to create a mass that has an organic look. Space each one properly. Stagger them instead of planting in straight rows and leave room for your plants to grow and expand over time. When choosing plants, the sun requirement is one of the most important factors to consider. A plant that requires a full day of sun will not thrive in the shade. No amount of water or fertilizer will make it perform. Other important considerations are flower bloom time, height, color or texture. There can be plants of the same type that will bloom at different times. A carefully considered selection can provide extended flowering.

Mulch After planting, apply a 1- to 2-inch layer of organic mulch like pine bark, hardwood, cocoa hulls, or pine needles. Mulch will help suppress weed growth, hold moisture, and keep roots cool. Take care not to smother crowns or the shallow rhizomes of plants like iris. A little weeding may be necessary in perennial beds for the first few seasons. Weeds may be removed by hand or prevented with a pre-emergent herbicide. Some perennials multiply by reseeding, and may be inhibited if such a pre-emergent herbicide is used. Hoeing or cultivating is not recommended; it stirs up weed seeds in the soil, encouraging weed growth and may also damage shallow perennial plant roots. A winter mulch is recommended, especially for young plantings. Snow is the ideal winter mulch but is not reliable. A layer of light, fluffy, insulating material, such as straw or evergreen boughs, applied after the ground freezes, will prevent heaving. Apply

in November or December and remove before growth starts in March or April.

Maintenance During the growing season, remove spent flowers and developing seedpods—a process called deadheading. This will help prolong the bloom season of many plants. Seedpods may be handpicked or in some cases the whole plant may be sheared, such as campanula and coreopsis. Deadheading may also prolong the blooming period of heavily flowering plants like blanket flower (Gaillardia) and large-flowered tickseed (Coreopsis grandiflora). Some seedpods are ornamental and may be left to persist over winter. Examples include allium, rudbeckia, sedum, and ornamental grasses. Certain plants, like chrysanthemums, benefit from pinching during the growing season. The tips of the plant are removed, resulting in a bushier, shorter plant. Unpinched mums will get tall and leggy and will bear only a few flowers per stem. Pinch 2 to 3 times, starting when the plant has reached 6 to 12 inches, the last pinch should be no later than July 15, or flowering may be affected.

Watering Perennials should be watered on a regular basis, depending on your soil type and the weather. Sandier soils coupled with sunny, hot days means your plants will need water more often. Plants in the shade generally require less water than those in more sun. It is normal to water your perennials and shrubs every day. During times of little to no rain, you may have to increase the duration of your watering. Most perennials enjoy rich garden soil that is moist and well-drained. Some plants, such as sedums, like it a little drier because they are a succulent and store water in their tissues. Too much water for these plants can make them rot. Get to know your plants and the moisture condition that they need.

Fertilizing A spring and fall application of fertilizer will benefit perennials. A slow-release, granular, organic fertilizer is a good allpurpose one to use. Follow the directions on the label for the amount to apply. When planting new plants, use starter fertilizer, then a fall application of the all-purpose product. An organic compost mixed in the soil is also helpful. A little care this summer and your perennial garden will thrive and look great!

General

ly before removing it from spent tulips, daffodils and hyacinths. Bulbs won’t perform well next year if the leaves are removed before they completely turn yellow and can be easily pulled from the plant.

• In late June, set out traps to monitor the emergence of Japanese beetle. Place the traps away from the target plants to keep them from being infested. • Watch for signs of deer and rabbit damage, and treat with a repellent as necessary. Follow label instructions for best results. Switch up the repellents if animals become accustomed to one particular product. Fences can also keep animals away from your prized plants.

Evergreens

Bulbs: Spring-Flowering

• Harvest culinary herbs throughout the month. Remove the flower heads from

• Make sure all the foliage has died complete-

• Prune evergreens if needed, taking care to follow their natural shape.

Fruits

• Thin out tree fruits (peach, apple, pear and large-fruited plum) to produce larger, higher quality fruit. Do this when the fruits reach the size of marbles. Thin out clusters to single fruits spaced 6 to 7 inches apart.

Herbs

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herbs like basil, oregano, thyme and dill, so energy goes to the plant, rather than producing seeds. Regular trimming and use keeps plants bushy, not leggy, and they’ll continue to grow throughout the season. • Most herbs require sunny locations—at least 6 to 8 hours of sunlight each day. Watering requirements will vary by variety.

Houseplants

• Monitor plants regularly for spider mite outbreaks, especially during warm spells.

Perennials

• Once they have finished blooming, divide clumps of bearded iris that are 3 to 4 years old. Dig the clump and knock off excess soil. Using a sharp knife, cut young sections of rhizome with at least one leaf fan and some fibrous roots attached. Discard the old part

of the clump. Sit division in the direct sun for 3 to 4 days before replanting. • Shear back ajuga, candytuft, Cheddar pinks (Dianthus), blue flax, and creeping phlox. • As flowers fade, deadhead yarrow, columbine, Carpathian harebell (Campanula), Shasta daisy, lanceleaf coreopsis, salvia, pinks, foxglove, baby’s breath, daylily, coral bells, peony, and Oriental poppy.

Shrubs & Trees

• Avoid pruning oaks in summer to reduce the danger of contracting oak wilt. • If wintercreeper is infested with euonymus scale, treat with spray oil early in June, and repeat in 7 to 10 days.

Lawn

• You can still make a late spring fertilizer application early this month. A slow-release

fertilizer will produce more even growth, fewer grass clippings, and fewer problems with thatch buildup. • June is an ideal month to lay sod or reseed large areas of lawn.

• Thin out previously planted crops of carrots and parsnips. • Tie up the outer leaves of endive and cauliflower to blanch them. A large rubber band can be used to hold the leaves in place.

Roses

Vines

• Disbud hybrid teas to produce larger blooms. Continue to deadhead to maintain flower production.

Vegetables

• Hill up potatoes when growth reaches 6 to 8 inches. Apply a light dose of fertilizer around the plant and add soil around the stem to a height of 3 to 4 inches. • It’s a good time to sow lima beans. Early in the month, transplant celery, okra and peppers. • Plant repeat crops of beans, carrots, corn and kohlrabi.

• As vines begin trailing, stake them or tie them to strings for support.

Water Garden

• Top off the water level of the pond as water evaporates. • Net out any thread algae. Let other mild algae problems cure themselves. • Return tropical fish and plants to the pond. Provided by the professionals at English Gardens.

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Insects in the garden

ollinators, predators and pests. Every garden has them, and it’s important to know which is which. Pollinators are required to fertilize plants so they can produce fruit. Predators are important because they control the pest population. Pests are just that—insects that damage or destroy all or part of the plants we are growing. While we want to protect pollinators and encourage predators, we just don’t want pests in the garden. So, the question is: how do we recognize and control the pests? To begin with, it is necessary to identify the bug: 1) from the damage that has occurred, or 2) if the bug was found, correctly identify it to be sure that it is the one that could have caused the damage. It is important to identify the insect to determine the best course for controlling it. There are several ways to identify an insect: 1) use an app or do an online search that can identify an insect from its image or a description of the damage to the plant, 2) find a

good reference book on garden pests, 3) check soaps do well for controlling soft-bodied inif your local garden center can provide qualisects such as aphids, thrips and spider mites. fied assistance in diagnosing the problem, If using insecticidal soaps, be careful to read or 4) contact the Michigan State University the label since some plants can be injured by Plant & Pest Diagnostic Lab at www.canr. soap sprays. The label will tell you where not msu.edu/pestid. to use the spray. If you choose to make your Once the insect is identified, start with the own insecticidal soap, again, be careful what most environmentally safe means you use, as some plants may suffer of dealing with it. In some cases, from phytotoxicity to the mixture. the insect damage is minimal and I would recommend purchasing may not even affect the part of the rather than making an insecticidal vegetable you plan on harvesting, so soap. just let the little critters live. In the There is a wide range of organic case of aphids, you can use a spray and inorganic pesticides available of water or simply run your hand for controlling insects. Some may down the stem and knock them off be specific to one family of insects (wear a glove). For larger pests such and some will kill a very wide range Mary Gerstenberger as caterpillars, tomato hornworms, of insects. Whatever you use, reetc., look for them on or under the member that a pesticide is intended leaf and remove them by hand. Japanese to kill, and an organic pesticide may be just beetles can easily be knocked into a container as dangerous or toxic to use as an inorganic of soapy water and then disposed of. If insect product. The most important thing you can eggs are spotted on a leaf, just remove the leaf. do is READ THE LABEL on any product you If it is necessary to use a chemical control, buy, especially a pesticide. Some pesticides start with the least damaging to the environmay be harmful not only to the bug you are ment and to beneficial insects. Insecticidal trying to eliminate, but also to beneficial in-

sects, humans and pets as well. A good source of information on pesticides is available at the National Pesticide Information Center at www.npic.orst.edu. In dealing with insects in the garden, it is a matter of practicing Integrated Pest Management (IPM). The University of California defines IPM as “...an ecosystem-based strategy that focuses on long-term prevention of pests or their damage through a combination of techniques such as biological control, habitat manipulation, modification of cultural practices, and use of resistant varieties.” For more information on IPM, check out the MSU website at www.canr.msu.edu/ipm/ ipm_for_homeowners. Mary Gerstenberger was the Consumer Horticulture Coordinator at the Michigan State University Extension in Macomb County, MI. For vegetable and gardening information from MSU, visit www.migarden.msu.edu. Call the toll-free Michigan State University Lawn and Garden Hotline at 888-678-3464 for answers to your gardening questions.

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Floret Farm’s Discovering Dahlias: A Guide to Growing and Arranging Magnificent Blooms

Grow More Food

Weed-Free Gardening

by Colin McCrate and Brad Halm

by Tasha Greer

by Erin Benzakein

Just how productive can one small vegetable garden be? In Grow More Food (Storey Publishing, 304 pages, $24.95), the authors will help you boost your garden productivity by teaching careful planning methods. Learn to maximize production in every bed, get the most out of every plant, scale up systems to maximize efficiency, and expand the harvest season with succession planting, intercropping, and season extension. Along with chapters devoted to the five tenets of a productive gardener, the book contains interactive tools that you can use to determine how, when, and what to plant; evaluate crop health; and plan and store your harvest. If you want to grow as much of your own food as possible, this guide offers expert advice and strategies.

Weeding is far from a homeowner’s favorite chore. But not everyone can afford to hire a landscape crew to keep the weeds at bay, and spraying chemical herbicides isn’t a smart solution for eco-conscious gardeners or pet parents. If that’s the case for you, WeedFree Gardening (Cool Springs Press, 192 pages, $24.99) outlines weed prevention and control strategies that will help. The book presents an easy-to-implement plan to get even the most tenacious weeds under control without the need for potentially harmful synthetic herbicides. Featured resources include weed identification, tips for getting rid of invasive plants, useful ideas for handling areas completely overtaken by weeds, and dozens of “weed hacks” to make life in the garden much more enjoyable.

Dahlias are floral treasures that come in a dazzling range of colors, sizes, and forms. With enough variety for every garden space and personal preference, they are one of the most beloved flowers for arrangements. World-renowned flower farmer and floral designer Erin Benzakein reveals the secrets to growing, cultivating, and arranging gorgeous dahlias in Floret Farm’s Discovering Dahlias (Chronicle Books, 224 pages, $24.95). The founder of Floret Farms and bestselling author provides invaluable advice, plus an A-to-Z guide with photos and descriptions of more than 350 varieties and a simple-to-follow overview of the dahlia classification system. This excellent resource will help anyone who loves flowers, as well as avid and novice gardeners alike.

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Michigan Gardener | June 2022 | MichiganGardener.com

Mulch madness and tree roots Learn how to properly mulch your trees and avoid long-term problems

he over and improper use of mulch is still at the top of the list of both common and preventable tree problems I encounter as an arborist. It is right up there with incorrect planting. In fact, they usually go hand in hand. When either of these two issues occur, it creates the right environment for the formation of girdling roots and begins the process that leads to the slow but inevitable demise of the tree. Once you cover up the root flare of a tree— either with soil or mulch—you trigger the tree trunk’s adventitious buds to begin to form roots in this moist, low oxygen environment. When this happens, you end up with roots growing at a level that can encircle the trunk. As the tree grows, it will encounter these roots and begin to strangle itself. This is often a very slow process that can take decades to complete. However, some younger trees can also succumb to it if they were not properly root pruned when they were being up-potted

during nursery production. With either too much mulch or improper planting, it is generally many years later that the problems occur. That is why most people don’t make the connection—they don’t see the cause and effect right away. Trees are resilient and can survive for many years under adverse conditions before they die. This describes more than half the trees planted in our area over the last few decades and pretty much every tree I have seen planted in a parking lot or in front of a fast-food restaurant. It is sad to consider that most of Steve these trees will never see maturity. Turner Many will die 20 to 40 years after planting and rarely exceed 40 to 50 feet in height because they will blow over if they get too tall. These trees tend to stay shorter than unaffected trees for this reason. There are two scenarios that happen with

these trees: 1) they will strangle themselves, or 2) they will snap at the base or uproot due to a compromised root system that can’t support the tree. It is not a pleasant experience having to tell clients that the tree they have been watching grow in their yards for years is now dying. It was either planted wrong, or worse, improperly mulched. In the case of mulching, they find out that their good intentions to help the tree actually had the opposite effect in the long run. Fortunately, not all trees that start out wrong have to die prematurely. If caught early enough, the situation can often be corrected by adjusting the grade at the tree’s base. An arborist can expose the root flare and then determine if all or most of the offending roots can be removed. If so, the arborist judges whether the tree will survive or if it might be too compromised by the root removal. On the other hand, it simply might be too late, as the problematic roots are already imbedded in the trunk. Sometimes it is just a matter of prolonging the tree’s life by removing the worst roots, but not being able to remove all that need to be. The size of the tree makes a difference. As a general rule, trees under 8-inch dbh (diameter at breast height) are the best candidates

to save. From 8- to 18-inch dbh, it’s still possible, but the window is closing. Above 18 inches up to 24 inches dbh is generally too late—at that point, the best you can do is only prolong its life. I don’t see many trees above 24 inches dbh that are still alive with girdling roots. The exception would be when mature, naturally grown trees with good root flares are later buried with mulch or a raised garden bed has been added around them and roots begin to form later in its life. These trees are also good candidates to save, as it is easier to restore them to the former grade. Another issue that can arise when you bury a tree trunk is the formation of cankers or dead spots on the trunk, which can later cause decay that eventually weakens the tree. A tree respirates through its bark, releasing gasses. If this process is interrupted and gasses build up, cankers can form on young or thin-barked tree species.

Guidelines for proper tree mulching These are all preventable problems if trees are planted correctly with their root flares exposed, mulched properly from the beginning, and then maintained correctly as they mature. The recommended depth of mulch is 2 to 4 inches total—not yearly. There should be a ring of bare soil (at least 6 inches) between the mulch and the trunk to keep the mulch from accumulating on the trunk and root flares.

www.MichiganGardener.com | June 2022 | Michigan Gardener

The maintenance comes with making sure that when the mulch shifts towards the trunk it is pulled back yearly to a safe distance. Before any new mulch is added, rake away all the old mulch from the trunk and use it to expand the mulched area slowly as the tree grows. Make sure that the old and the new mulch combined never exceed the four-inch maximum recommended depth. Unfortunately, the more likely scenario on most landscapes is that 2 to 3 inches of mulch gets applied yearly, whether needed or not, so that the garden looks fresh every spring. No one rakes out the old mulch or pulls it away from the trunks. All this adds up to eventually having to call out an arborist to come analyze and possibly fix the situation. If you have a lot of trees that need work, this is often expensive, but is still far less costly than tree removal and replacement if left uncorrected.

So, wait to apply additional mulch until the existing material breaks down enough to need more. If you want to freshen it up before then, just rake back some of the old and sprinkle on just enough new mulch on top to cover the old. This achieves the look you want without risking the potential damage later on by over-mulching. Mulch can provide a host of benefits to your trees if done correctly. It can retain moisture in the soil, suppress weeds, regulate soil temperature, and add organic matter to the soil to help sustain beneficial microorganisms. Just keep in mind that many more trees die prematurely from too much mulch than not enough mulch. If given a choice, do it right or don’t do it at all.

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Abbott’s Landscape Nursery 2781 Scio Church Rd., Ann Arbor, MI 48103 734-665-8733 www.abbottsnursery.com May/June hours: Mon-Sat 9-5:30, Sun 10-4. Turn-of-the-century farm—perfect setting for our unique nursery. Mike Abbott likes what gardeners like, both classic and new. Native, pollinator, rain garden, shade, ornamental plants. Specializing in Japanese maples and reliably-blooming hydrangeas. Also garden ornaments, fixtures, containers and more. Come see us—we stock plants you may be looking for and many that will surprise you.

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Alexander Farm Market & Greenhouses 6925 Whitmore Lake Rd., Whitmore Lake, MI 48189 734-741-1064 Find us on Facebook May/June hours: Daily 9-7. We’re that hidden gem savvy gardeners have been raving about. Homegrown annuals, vegetables, perennials, extraordinary hanging baskets and planters. Plus our exclusive $1.49 seed perennials. Distinctive variety of fruit trees, small fruits, flowering shrubs, climbing vines, herbs, succulents, and roses, including easy-care shrubs, and luxuriously scented David Austins.

Clink Landscaping & Nursery 9403 W. Michigan Ave., Saline, MI 48176 734-495-3779 www.clinklandscaping.com May/June hours: Mon-Fri 8-6, Sat 9-5, Sun 10-4. Just what you’ve been looking for... Large inventory of trees and shrubs; plus we can special order that perfect plant you are searching for. Natural stone, boulders, and brick pavers (all in several sizes). Bagged and bulk mulches and soils. Familyowned and operated for over 40 years. You will love our friendly, professional staff!

Dexter Mill 3515 Central St., Dexter, MI 48130 734-426-4621 www.dextermill.com May/June hours: Mon-Fri 8-6, Sat 8-5. Proud to sell quality gardening supplies, seasonal plants (including natives!), all natural non-GMO feeds, pet supplies, rugged clothing, and our own wild bird seed. Our products are made locally or in America whenever possible. We stand behind the products we sell and the services provided by our knowledgeable staff.

Downtown Home & Garden 210 S. Ashley St., Ann Arbor, MI 48104 734-662-8122 www.downtownhomeandgarden.com May/June hours: Mon-Sat 9-5, Sun 10-5. A century-old retailer focused on indoor and outdoor gardening supplies, outdoor veggie plant starts, annuals, perennials, and greenhouse plants. Outdoor furniture, kitchenware, sundries and hardware, K9 gear and treats, and hardy clothing for hardworking people. Drive-thru barn and on-site parking for patrons in the heart of Downtown Ann Arbor.

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English Gardens Plymouth Nursery 9900 Ann Arbor Rd. W., Plymouth, MI 48170 734-453-5500 www.EnglishGardens.com May/June hours: Please visit our website. English Gardens acquired Plymouth Nursery in 2018. The store features a full-service nursery and garden center with a fullservice landscaping company. English Gardens is family-owned and locally operates six stores in Metro Detroit featuring the best value and finest quality products and services. For more information: 800-335-GROW.

Fraleighs Landscape Nursery 8600 Jackson Rd., Dexter, MI 48130 734-426-5067 www.fraleighs.com May/June hours: Mon-Sat 10-5. Wide variety of perennials, shrubs, ornamental grasses, flowering ornamentals, native plants, shade trees, and evergreens. Expert staff to assist with your landscaping and horticultural questions. We source plants from Michigan growers whenever possible. We stock unusual items, but we really love selling plants that are reliable and functional, but never boring!

110 S. Main St., Chelsea, MI 48118 734-475-3539 www.thegardenmill.com May/June hours: Please check website or Facebook for current hours. An ever-changing variety of beautiful and functional products. Unique and hand-crafted artifacts for garden and home. Wrought iron and rustic garden features; eclectic wind chimes; fountains; classic garden sculptures; colorful plant containers; birdhouses, feeders, and baths; seasonal seeds, hanging baskets, and bedding plants. facebook.com/TheGardenMillChelsea.

Hidden Lake Gardens 6214 Monroe Rd. (M-50), Tipton, MI 49287 517-431-2060 www.canr.msu.edu/hiddenlakegardens April-October hours: Tues-Sun 9-5 (confirm hours; may change due to pandemic) 755 acres. Don’t miss one of the finest collections of Dwarf and Rare Conifers—over 500 specimens. Hosta Hillside has over 800 varieties. Enjoy a leisurely drive through the Arboretum. See lush tropicals in the Conservatory. Serene outdoor displays in the Bonsai Courtyard. The Demonstration Garden shows attractive mixed plantings. Great hiking trails and dog-friendly, too! To advertise in Destinations, call Eric at 248-594-5563 or email Publisher@MichiganGardener.com.

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989-684-4210 www.begicknursery.com HillTop Greenhouse & Farms 8996 West Liberty, Ann Arbor, MI 48103 734-302-4233 www.hilltopgreenhousea2.com May hours: Mon-Sat 9-7, Sun 9-6. June hours: Please call. Just 10 minutes from Ann Arbor or Chelsea, our greenhouse is a relaxing drive from all corners. Choose from thousands of baskets, plus veggie starters, flats, specialty annuals, and lush combination planters. Each plant is grown on site, with hands-on care from start to finish. Smiles, hugs and a friendly staff, free of charge!

Lodi Farms 2880 S. Wagner Rd., Ann Arbor, MI 48103 734-665-5651 www.lodifarms.com May/June/Summer hours: Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri 8-5, Wed 8-6, Sat 10-4, Sun 11-3. Visit our newly remodeled greenhouse and walk acres of beautiful trees and plants! Fantastic selection of Michigan-grown shade and ornamental trees, evergreens, shrubs, perennials, vegetables and annuals. Bulk products for pick-up or delivery. Bring your pictures and ideas; our friendly team will help find the perfect plants for your space.

Margolis Nursery 9600 Cherry Hill Rd., Ypsilanti, MI 48198 734-482-0771 www.margoliscompanies.com May/June hours: Mon-Fri 8-6, Sat 8-3. Family owned and operated since 1926. From trees and shrubs to perennials and groundcovers to mulch and Unilock pavers. Our experienced staff will help with your plant selections. Our full-service landscaping company provides complete landscape design and installation, and has a reputation for quality and competitive prices.

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

The Rock Shoppe 6275 Gotfredson Rd., Plymouth, MI 48170 734-455-5560 www.rock-shoppe.com May/June hours: Mon-Fri 8-6, Sat 9-1:45, Sun Closed. 12 acres showcasing hundreds of tons of rock, unique statuary, garden art, mulches, soils, and landscape materials. Vast selection of brick pavers, retaining walls, flagstone and terrace slab rock. We provide free education on the correct installation of landscaping products we sell, ensuring your project will be successful.

Saline Flowerland 7370 Michigan Ave., Saline, MI 48176 734-429-4458 www.salineflowerland.com May/June hours: Mon-Sat 9-6, Sun 10-5. Saline’s Full Service Florist and Garden Center since 1977. Our beautiful plants are grown on site for best quality & bloom count. Hundreds of hanging baskets, vegetables, annuals, perennials, herbs, succulents, groundcovers, houseplants. Large selection of fairy garden items. Many 4-inch potted Proven Winners annuals. Mulch and topsoil by the bag or yard. Delivery available.

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Willow Greenhouse 7839 Curtis Rd., Northville, MI 48168 248-437-7219 www.willowgreenhouse.com May/June hours: Mon-Fri 9-5, Sat 9-6, Sun 10-5. Full of beauty, free of pesticides—all our plants are grown pesticide-free! Buy direct from the grower. Thousands of Annuals, Perennials, Trees, Shrubs, Vegetables, Herbs, Houseplants, Hydrangeas, Proven Winners, Wave Petunias, Heirloom Tomatoes, and much more. New: now offering full landscaping services. Like us on Facebook!

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Michigan Gardener | June 2022 | MichiganGardener.com

Julia Hofley

Many Michigan gardeners visit garden centers in spring and summer looking for new plants to add to their perennial collections, beds and borders. This article is just a sampling of what is new this year from hundreds of introductions. Like you, we look forward to growing and learning more about these exciting, new perennials.

www.PerennialResource.com

Epimedium: ‘Songbirds’ Ball Horticultural Co.

Catmint: Prelude Purple I planted ‘Prelude Purple’ Japanese catmint (Nepeta subsessilis) last summer and found it catching my eye every time I went into the backyard. The tubular flowers are a non-fading, bright purple and cover this bushy, upright-mounded plant from spring through summer. I wasn’t the only regular admirer, as butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds greedily took advantage of its continuous bloom. Yet at the same time, the mintyscented foliage repelled rabbits and deer—scoring even more points with this gardener as the summer progressed. Plant this robust catmint in a full sun location with some elbow room—in its second year, ‘Prelude Purple’

scales to 3 feet tall by 2-1/2 feet wide, yet is not a flopper. I think I’ll be moving our plant this season, as I didn’t allow for a footprint that big. Plus, a nearby maple tree could start to shade it out. With that size, and a big display of blossoms, there should be plenty of flowers on long stems for both cutting and enjoying in the garden. ‘Prelude Purple’ appreciates moderate water and fertilizer. Deadhead when needed and trim back after the blooming finishes. Also available: Prelude Blue. Height: 28-36 inches. Width: 24-30 inches. 2nd year width can be 36-48 inches. Light: Full sun. Zone: 5.

This floriferous spring groundcover boasts a bevy of large, yellow flowers with rose-blushed sepals, all presented upon long stems that enable viewers to truly admire them in the woodland garden. The spring leaves are lightly speckled with faint purple spots. Even though epimediums prefer rich, moist woodland soils, experienced epimedium enthusiasts appreciate that once they are established in the garden, these tough perennials adapt to nearly any shady position in the woodland garden, even under mature trees, including evergreens. Epimediums can handle a classic gardening challenge: dry shade. Trimming off all the old foliage in late winter will make room for a fresh flush of leaves and may increase flower production as well. Mulch around the plant to keep moisture near the root zone, especially if planted under mature trees. Epimediums can be divided in fall and are rarely bothered by pests or diseases. Height: 16-18 inches. Width: 26-30 inches. Light: Part shade to shade. Zone: 5. NEW PERENNIALS continued on page 20

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Michigan Gardener | June 2022 | MichiganGardener.com

continued from page 18

Amsonia:

‘String Theory’

www.PerennialResource.com (2)

Early summer flowers.

Fall color. This new native plant has all the bells and whistles for gardeners who are trying to lighten their workload in the garden. In spring, fluffy light green foliage emerges, growing into a uniform clump, and transitioning into a healthy, darker green as the season progresses. In late spring to early summer, clusters of periwinkle blue, star-shaped flowers fill the ends of upright

stems, presenting a nectar-rich food source for hummingbirds, butterflies, hummingbird moths, and carpenter bees. The dramatic fall finale of ‘String Theory’ is the brilliant golden orange autumn color that can last for up to a month. The willow-like foliage resembles a living flame and could even be considered as an ornamental grass alternative.

A compact version of the popular threadleaf bluestar (Amsonia hubrichtii), ‘String Theory’ blooms later than ‘Storm Cloud’ amsonia. Like all amsonias, it is heat and humidity tolerant and contains a toxic latex sap that makes the plant resistant to insect damage, animal browsing and disease problems. For best foliage and flower performance,

site the plant in well-drained, average garden soil with at least 6 hours of full sun for flower power and end-of-season foliage fireworks. Height: 18-22 inches. Width: 32-36 inches. Light: Full sun to part sun. Zone: 4.

Artemisia: SunFern series

Ball Horticultural Co. (2)

‘Arcadia’

New this year are two interesting foliage plants with handsome, fern-like texture (Artemisia gmelinii). They are non-flowering and resemble an evergreen shrub or a bushy fern for a sunny spot in the garden. That’s good news for fern aficionados like me! ‘Arcadia’ has medium green leaves with a light silver cast, while ‘Olympia’ has dark green leaves with red stems. They both have the same shrubby, mounded habit and ferny foliage. Busy gardeners will appreciate their low maintenance and drought tolerance once established. Trim plants to maintain shape if necessary and remove old foliage in spring. Both of these new plants would do well as a sunny groundcover or softening a rock wall. They could also be used as compan-

ions amongst flowering plants or as ferny foliage fillers in sunny combination containers. Seasoned gardeners know that traditional silver artemisia does not tend to attract browsing animals like rabbits and deer, but time will tell if this green artemisia will do the same. Height: 16-18 inches. Width: 14-18 inches. Light: Full sun. Zone: 4. NEW PERENNIALS continued on page 22

‘Olympia’

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Michigan Gardener | June 2022 | MichiganGardener.com

continued from page 20

Primula:

‘Oakleaf Yellow Picotee’ Being an avid primrose collector, you can only imagine my surprise and delight the day a thoughtful friend brought this unusual primrose home for me to add to the collection. ‘Oakleaf Yellow Picotee’ (Primula vulgaris) is a standout primrose with a new look. Its upright, bicolored yellow flowers contrast with bright red/orange picotee edging and are held above the distinctive oak leaf-shaped foliage on strong stems. I had never seen a primula like it and I was geeked! Oakleaf primula was first discovered in the late 1990s in the U.K. from a chance seedling. Today, because of modern tissue culture production in labs, this plant can be produced quickly and become available sooner than growing from seed, as in the past. I’ve lined our hillside switchback path

with my collection of primroses and love walking to the top of the hill and back down, enjoying them all the way. I am not alone in my admiration of primroses, as pollinators like bees and butterflies appreciate this earlyspring food source, especially with its long blooming period. Flowers are fragrant and may be used for cutting bouquets, containers, edging a path, woodlands, or miniature gardens. Keep them deadheaded for continued flower production. Plant in rich, well-drained soil. Also available is ‘Oakleaf Magenta,’ with vivid magenta flowers with a bright yellow eye. Height: 12-18 inches. Width: 12-14 inches. Light: Part shade; morning sun; high dappled light. Zone: 4.

Little Prince Plants

Lysimachia: ‘Night Light’ and ‘Firefly’ A heads-up to gardeners always on the hunt for interesting shade plants: here is a pair of new, colorful, flowering groundcovers for your low light areas. It was the unusual foliage that first grabbed our attention. To our surprise and delight, these two different types of lysimachia are flowering perennial groundcovers, and not trendy annuals. ‘Night Light’ (Lysimachia alfredii ‘Night Light’) hails from a lysimachia breeding program in the Netherlands. It is the best of both worlds in plant breeding, as it delivers both attractive foliage and bright yellow flowers that attract pollinators, especially bees. It is not an aggressive plant like other lysimachias can be. Grown for both foliage and flower, ‘Night Light’ gets its name from clustered circles of bright yellow flowers that cling closely to the leaves and continuously flower from spring to early fall. Minty jade-green veining on the leaves will tint to burgundy tones in more shade. The contrast of bright yellow flowers above darkly dramatic leaves brings to mind a nightlight. Trim the foliage to six inches after a hard fall frost.

Ball Horticultural Co. (2)

‘Night Light’

The second plant from the Netherland’s breeding program is an attractive groundcover that will spread slightly, yet is not invasive. ‘Firefly’ (Lysimachia congestiflora ‘Firefly’) has noticeable bright yellow flowers that bloom from spring through early autumn. These yellow blooms light up the green foliage that also displays burgundy new growth. Plant in rich soil in a shady area, and water frequently as it gets established. Trim if desired. ‘Firefly’ mixes well with other perennials and would be a handsome flowering groundcover to soften a stone wall or a free-standing highlight at the front of a partly shady border with morning sun. Attractive to pollinators, especially bees. Avoid midday sun. Height: 6-8 inches. Width: 10-12 inches. Light: Shade to part sun. Zone: 5. Julia Hofley is a plant collector, freelance garden writer, speaker, and independent sales rep (E-mail: julia@juliasbiglife.com).

Height: 10-12 inches. Width: 10-12 inches. Light: Part shade to shade. Zone: 5. ‘Firefly’

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Michigan Gardener | June 2022 | MichiganGardener.com

When you cook vegetables on the grill, add fresh herbs and mix in a little olive oil.

Herbs for the barbeque grill

verybody in Michigan loves a good tom. Pots of various sizes that sit on the deck barbeque. Using herbs on the grill is a itself is also a good way of growing the plants. great way to flavor your food. GrowAlways make sure all of your herb pots ing fresh herbs in pots next to the grill is a have good drainage holes. Use a quality potconvenient way to cook with summer seasonting mix with fertilizer to fill these pots to ings. All you will have to do is snip or pinch ensure your herbs will grow well. We planted some herbs and add to your meats and vegsome seeds and a few potted herbs from our etables. Your taste buds will farm market that you should thank you, along with the also be able to grow near family and friends. your barbeque. We grew a selection of Herbs for the barbeque fresh herbs near our barHere is the list of herbs beque on a sunny deck area. we planted to compliment We used a few pots that sat various dishes: directly on the top railing of – Fish: Dill, lemon thyme, our wooden deck and held basil and parsley. three herb plants. These Roxanne & Jean – Chicken: Parsley, thyme, pots fit securely and have Riggs and basil. drainage holes in the bot-

Sassafras, an herbal tree, has flavored twigs. Soak them and place on the hot coals to add great taste.

MichiganGardener.com | June 2022 | Michigan Gardener

Make a sauce brush from fresh herbs by tying the herbs onto a wooden skewer or sassafras twig with raffia.

Use your brush to apply sauce and herbal flavor. – Ribs and red meat: Rosemary, thyme, basil, oregano and summer savory. – Vegetables: Oregano, basil, parsley, thyme, rosemary and summer savory.

The finished herb brush looks like a miniature broom.

Dill, basil, and summer savory were grown easily from seed and are annual plants—they only last one summer. Lemon thyme, parsley, thyme, rosemary and oregano are best grown from small plants you buy at the farm market or garden center. If you try to grow these plants from seed, you may not get enough to use in the summer months. Although these plants are perennial, the drawback is that they will not survive in your pots over the winter. In early fall, you would have to transplant them to the garden or treat them like annuals and simply let the plants die off and replace them in the spring. (This is especially true for rosemary, which would need to be brought inside,

P H OTO G R A P H S BY R OX A N N E A N D J E A N R I G G S

but is tricky to overwinter.) Try to get your seeds in the soil and plants in the pots by Memorial Day. Herbs in pots do require quite a bit of watering during the hot, summer months. Don’t wait until they are limp and lifeless to water them! Herbs grow well in our Michigan summers, so you should get plenty to harvest for your barbeques. If you use a good potting soil with fertilizer and water regularly, you will have a pot that grows plenty of herbs. Wait until the herbs are fairly good-sized before harvesting. When you snip them, just use the fresh tips of the plant so it can keep on growing. continued on next page

Michigan Gardener | June 2022 | MichiganGardener.com

Salmon fillets fresh off the grill, with lemon slices, lemon thyme, dill, and parsley.

The ingredients for a Michigan cherry jam barbeque sauce.

This homemade barbeque sauce can be dabbed on with a homemade herbal brush.

continued from previous page

1/2 cup brown sugar 1 T. cinnamon powder 2 T. Worcestershire sauce 1/4 cup molasses Chili powder to taste 2 cups white vinegar 1/2 cup Michigan maple syrup 1/2 cup Michigan cherry jam 1/4 cup quality mustard Mix these ingredients and use on ribs, pork chops, and chicken. This sauce keeps in the refrigerator for quite a while. As an added bonus, make an herbal brush to spread your barbeque sauce. Purchase a wooden barbeque skewer at the market or use

Cooking and recipes If you use coals to cook a barbeque, try using wet sprigs of herbs over the hot coals for a smoky flavor in your food. Soak sassafras twigs and place on the coals for a great taste. If you use a gas grill, lay the meat over the sprigs of herbs or place the herbs on top to give your meat a wonderful flavor. In the summer, our family is crazy for pork spareribs with potato salad. Here is a favorite sparerib recipe that has been passed down over the years. It uses delicious Michigan cherry jam and Michigan maple syrup to give

it a smooth flavor. We use meaty baby back ribs, sprinkle them with olive oil, and rub them with fresh thyme, basil, rosemary, summer savory and oregano. If you wish, you can also use a pork herb rub from the store. Line a pan with aluminum foil on the bottom and top of the ribs for easy cleanup. Bake the pork ribs for two hours at 350 degrees in the oven. Then place the meat on a hot grill and brush the following barbeque sauce over the ribs. Cook until slightly crisp around the edges. Michigan Cherry Jam and Maple Syrup Barbeque Sauce: 2 cups ketchup

a fragrant twig from a sassafras branch. Do not use just any branch from the yard; make sure it is an herb and is edible. Pick sprigs of thyme, rosemary, savory, and parsley, then fasten them together at the bottom of the skewer with raffia or butcher string. It should look like a little broom. Dip your brush in the barbeque sauce and apply to the meat. Repeat several times. Try these suggestions for a great herbal barbeque that everyone will enjoy. Growing and harvesting your own herbs is the way to go for the freshest flavor! Jean and Roxanne Riggs operated Sunshine Farm and Garden in Oakland County, MI.

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Dale’s Landscaping Supply 16720 East 13 Mile Rd., Roseville, MI 48066 586-778-1919 www.daleslandscaping.com May/June hours: Mon-Fri 8-6, Sat 8-4. Finest selection of landscaping materials: mulch, soils and more. Michigan-made pavers and retaining walls from Fendt, HighFormat, Oaks, and Unilock. Now carrying Techo-Bloc. Natural stone and boulder options: Michigan sandstone, exotic veneer stone, fieldstone boulders and flagstone. Full line of cement and masonry materials. Whether your project is big or small, come see us.

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English Gardens 44850 Garfield Rd., Clinton Township, MI 48038 586-286-6100 www.EnglishGardens.com May/June hours: Please visit our website. Founded in 1954, English Gardens is family- and locally-owned, operating six full-service stores and a full-service landscaping company in Metro Detroit. Each full-service store has a nursery, garden center, patio shop, and seasonal Christmas center featuring the best value and finest quality products and services. For more information: 800-335-GROW.

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

Hessell’s Greenhouse 14497 23 Mile Rd., Shelby Twp, MI 48315 586-247-4675 www.hessellsgreenhouse.com May/June hours: 8-7 every day. Not your typical garden center. We specialize in annuals, perennials, unique hanging baskets, colorful planters, and vegetable plants, including many varieties of heirloom and “Around the World” vegetables. Also many unique gift and garden items. We grow our own plants on-site to offer you the best, freshest plants available.

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

Soulliere Garden Center 23919 Little Mack, St. Clair Shores, MI 48080 586-776-2811 www.soullieregardens.com Hours – May: Mon-Fri 8-6, Sat 8-5, Sun 10-4. June: Mon-Fri 8-6, Sat 8-3, Sun 10-4. Family-owned and operated, the one-stop shop for all your landscaping needs. Founded in 1952. Our knowledgeable, friendly staff will help you pick the perfect trees, shrubs, perennials, and annuals. Plus, bulk landscape materials, stones, brick pavers, and gardening supplies. Fabulous selection of garden decor and patio furniture.

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

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

Van’s Valley Greenhouse 74865 Van Dyke, Bruce Twp, MI 48065 586-752-6002 www.vansvalley.com May/June hours: Mon-Sat 8–7, Sun 8-6. Shop in an open air market! Just south of 35 Mile. Wide variety of annuals, perennials, herbs, vegetable plants, succulents, garden art, wreaths, fairy gardens and much more! One-of-a-kind hanging baskets and porch pots. Your pot or our pot: we will customize it and fill with our beautiful flowers. Can’t wait to see you! To advertise in Destinations, call Eric at 248-594-5563 or email Publisher@MichiganGardener.com.

Michigan Gardener | June 2022 | MichiganGardener.com

Arie Bloom

‘Viking’

Campanula Choosing the best bellflowers for your garden

ell-shaped and blue would be a simple way to describe the flowers of most members of the genus Campanula. The scientific name is derived from the Latin word campana meaning bell; the literal translation of the genus name is “little bell.” There are over 300 species of campanula, many of which are used in gardens and referred to as bellflowers. While most species of campanula are distinctly bell-shaped, some could more accurately be described as cup-, star- or tubular-shaped. And although most bellflowers

are blue—encompassing every shade from icy to royal—there are some species and hybrids that include white, pink, lavender or deep purple varieties.

Native environments The bellflowers are a varied group, hailing from the temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere. Most species have origins in Europe, with a lesser number coming from North America and the cool-climate parts of Asia. Because of their wide-ranging geo-

graphical origins, the various types of bellflowers have distinct cultural requirements. Species native to the mountainous regions of Europe require full sun and very welldrained soils. These include many popular types used in gardens, including Carpathian harebells (C. carpatica), peach-leaf bellflower (C. persicifolia), bluebells of Scotland (C. rotundifolia), Dalmatian bellflower (C. portenschlagiana) and Serbian bellflower (C. poscharskyana). These types include many improved selections and hybrids, but all require well-drained soil to thrive. Most of them, with the notable exception of peachleaf bellflower, are low-growing species un-

der one foot in height, with either clumping or groundcover habit. Bellflowers that are Karen native to meadows, Bovio streambanks, open woodlands, and woods’ edges are more adaptable to the rich, compost-amended soil found in well-tended gardens. These include varieties and hybrids of spotted bellflower (C. punctata), Korean bellflower (C. takesimana), clustered bellflower (C. glomerata), milky bellflower (C. lactiflora), continued on page 30

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‘Delft Teacups’ continued from page 28

De Vroomen

‘Freya’

great bellflower (C. latifolia), and nettle-leaf bellflower (C. trachelium). Although they grow best in full sun, many of these are more shade tolerant than the alpine types, making them easier to grow in a variety of environments. These species and their hybrids are taller, with flowering stems reaching 18 to 36 inches in height.

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It is unfortunate that those easy-to-grow species tend to be quite aggressive in the garden. Some of them spread by thin, shallow underground stolons that infiltrate other plants, making a nuisance of themselves. The rambunctious habit of these species (in particular C. punctata and C. glomerata) have been tamed by careful selection and introduction of varieties with more refined habit, and by interbreeding them with other less aggressive species. The resultant hybrids are usually superior to the species, with more abundant flowers and the preferred clumping or gently spreading habit. Some of the most highly rated cultivars include ‘Sarastro’ and ‘Purple Sensation’ (hybrids of C. punctata and C. trachelium), ‘Elizabeth’ (hybrid of C. punctata and C. takesimana), and ‘Caroline’ and

‘Freya’ (two improved C. glomerata varieties). Many bellflowers not originally native to the U.S. have naturalized in this country or parts of it, often by unintentional spread from gardens via seed dispersal and/or running stolons. One in particular to be wary of is the creeping bellflower (C. rapunculoides). Despite its common name, it is not a lowgrowing, ground covering type. Its ultimate flowering height is around two feet, but it does creep very aggressively by thin underground rhizomes. It also produces deep, white, taproot-like fleshy tubers which, when broken off (likely during an attempt to dig and remove the plants), will produce new colonies, leaving the gardener with more, not less, of the offenders. This species also produces copious quantities of very fertile seed. Although beautiful in flower (it blooms with the daylilies and the combination is charming), it is best avoided unless one wants to spend the rest of their gardening lifetime trying to eradicate it. I can attest to the futility of this endeavor!

Propagation It’s easy to see that the running types of campanula are easy to reproduce by division continued on page 32

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continued from page 30 of their spreading roots and rhizomes. In fact, gardeners who grow those types will find they have plenty to share with fellow gardeners. There are many good cultivars of the spreading types that are worthy of propagation and sharing, particularly those that have superficial creeping habit, rather than masses of underground creeping stolons or rhizomes. Serbian and Dalmatian bellflowers and their hybrids and the less aggressive forms of clustered and spotted bellflower are fine examples. Many desirable species and varieties can also be grown from seed. The seed is tiny and a bit challenging to handle, but it germinates readily. Many popular varieties have been developed by traditional breeding and seed production, while the true species types can be propagated simply by collecting seed. Gardeners can also dig self-sown seedlings, some of which may be identical to the parent, and some of which may show variations. Non-fertile forms must be propagated by vegetative means—either by division, growing

from cuttings (only a few types of campanula are produced from cuttings), or by tissue culture. Tissue culture is the method by which the newest cultivars are propagated when stock is too scarce to produce by division.

How to grow bellflowers It is hard to generalize regarding culture of bellflowers, but most prefer sun and welldrained soil. The alpine species require excellent drainage and detest winter wetness, making site selection paramount. Bellflowers are not heavy feeders and surplus fertilizer can produce too much foliage and too few flowers, and make the plants more susceptible to fungal diseases. Most bellflowers do fine in our region without supplemental irrigation unless we experience drought accompanied by high temperatures. Wet soil accompanied by heat and high humidity is deleterious to most types of campanulas, but the taller ones usually hold up better under those conditions. continued on page 34

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‘Olympica’ continued from page 32

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‘Violet Teacups’

Many bellflowers benefit from deadheading when flowering is on the wane. In particular, varieties with large tubular flowers need the old ones snipped or pinched off. The spent flowers turn brown and do not drop off on their own, creating an unattractive mix of fresh and finished flowers. It’s an easy thing to groom these kinds once a week while in bloom. Regular deadheading will also increase the flowering period by delaying seed formation. Tall types that bear flowers up the entire length of their stems are harder to deadhead. I’ve found that trimming peach-leaf bellflower stems partway back once most of the flowers have finished encourages a new flush of blooms later in the season. Lowgrowing groundcover types are also hard

to deadhead, but to avoid a browned-out, messy look after flowering, shear the whole plant back partway. New foliage will refresh the look of the plants, even though they may not rebloom. The potential for rebloom varies from species to species, and even variety to variety—so the best tactic is to experiment with deadheading or cutting back. If the seed pods are attractive (the big, round green pods of great bellflower are a good example), allow them to stand awhile for their decorative effect. Just before the pods mature, turn brown and start to spill their seeds, cut the stems down to ground level to prevent unwanted seedlings. Insects are rarely a bother, but slugs and snails can be troublesome, particularly within the crowns of the low-growing types continued on page 36

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Destinations: I-96..............................................43 Destinations: Macomb....................................27 Eagle Landscaping & Supp..............................14 Eckert’s Greenhouse.........................................21 English Gardens.....................................................3 Everlastings in the Wildwood.......................37 Fleurdetroit.............................................................15 Fraleigh’s Landscape Nursery.......................31 The Garden Mill..................................................29 Garden Rhythms................................................39 A Garden Space..................................................42 Gerych’s Greenhouse.......................................19

Grass Roots Pond & Garden 24765 Bell Rd., New Boston, MI 48164 734-753-9200 www.grassrootspondandgarden.com Grass Roots Pond and Garden: Michigan’s place for quality pond supplies and service. See our website for hours and specials. Thank you, The Bates family.

Panetta’s Landscape Supplies 20200 Goddard, Taylor, MI 48180 313-291-3880 www.panettasupply.com May/June hours: Mon-Fri 8-5, Sat 8-4, Sun Closed (except Mother’s Day & Memorial Day Weekend). Wide variety of decorative rock, mulches, natural flagstone, boulders, outcroppings. Bagged cocoa mulch. Unilock, Fendt, High Format, and Oaks brick pavers and wall blocks. Try our RJ’s Garden Mix, a custom blend perfect for your garden. Stop in to pick up this season’s newest perennial and shrub varieties. Use our easy Online Ordering for deliveries!

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

Hidden Lake Gardens.......................................29 I Must Garden...................................................... 10 Lake Orion Lawn Ornaments.......................37 Main’s Landscape Supp...................................31 Margolis Nursery...............................................37 Meier Flowerland..............................................40 Merritt Home Design.......................................23 Michigan Nursery/Landscp Assoc............31 MSU Horticulture Gardens............................15 Milarch Nursery...................................................13 Mulligan’s Garden Ctr......................................38 The Original Budget Tree Service...............42

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

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

Zywicki Greenhouse 50705 Willow Rd., Belleville, MI 48111 734-461-6197 www.zywickigreenhouse.com May/June hours: Open 7 days a week, 8-6. Zywicki’s has served lower Michigan for over 50 years with quality annuals, perennials, hanging baskets, planters, window boxes, vegetable plants and roses. 200 varieties of vegetable and herb plants. Over 400 varieties of annuals, perennials, and hanging baskets. When it’s quality you need, it’s Zywicki’s indeed!

Orion Stone Depot..............................................12 Piechnik’s Gard Ctr...............................................5 Piechnik’s Greenhouse....................................33 Plantskydd................................................................7 Poison Ivy Control of Michigan.....................17 Proven Winners Color Choice.......................11 Rock Shoppe.........................................................39 Schuman Landscape Lighting.......................15 Sell Farms & Greenhouses.............................33 State Crushing.....................................................23 Steinkopf Nursery................................................ 4 Stone Cottage Gardens...................................42

Suburban Landscape Supply........................29 Telly’s Greenhouse...........Inside Front Cover Uncle Luke’s Feed Store.....................................8 Van Atta’s Greenhouse......................................6 Warmbier Farms................................................37 The Weed Lady...................................................23 Westcroft Gardens...........................................38 Willow Greenhouse..........................................42 Zoner’s Greenhouse........................................40

Michigan Gardener | June 2022 | MichiganGardener.com

continued from page 34 where these mollusks can easily hide. To control them, use slug baits every six weeks, starting in late May or early June. Although rust is often listed as a disease of campanula, I have never experienced it in over 35 years of growing many kinds. But fungal diseases, especially root and crown rots, are problematic in hot, wet weather. Leaf spot diseases may also occur under those conditions. To reduce their incidence, clean up affected plants as soon as disease becomes apparent. Use of fungicides, either as a root and crown drench, or as a spray for foliar diseases, can help stop the spread. In general, bellflowers are low-maintenance plants— their problems are usually related to weather, over which we have no control, or inappropriate soil for the type being grown.

Recommended bellflowers A six-year comparative study of campanula species and cultivars was performed at the Chicago Botanic Garden. The purpose of the study (available on their website) was to determine the best bellflowers for the Chicago area. Due to cultural conditions at the test site (moisture-retentive, moderate to heavy soil) most of the alpine species did poorly. But gardeners in drier climates appreciate those types as some of their most garden-worthy campanulas, especially when grown in welldrained gravelly soil, or positioned on slopes or in rock gardens. The Chicago trials also experienced poor results with peach-leaf bellflower (Campanula persicifolia) and all of its cultivars. Root rot was determined to be the main cause of failure to overwinter. However, in my own sandy loam gardens, peach-leaf bellflowers

Terra Nova Nurseries

‘Samantha’ have remained healthy and floriferous for many years, with two plants living to be over two decades old! In my area, I have also seen peach-leaf bellflower naturalized in a partial shade, park-like setting. Similarly, I’ve had excellent results with

another species of bellflower that failed in the Chicago trials: great bellflower (C. latifolia). Even though Southeast Michigan and Chicago are in the same hardiness zone, these contradictory results reinforce the idea that the garden site must be carefully evaluated—

particularly in regards to soil type, drainage and winter wetness—when choosing the best bellflowers for your own garden. Karen Bovio owned and operated Specialty Growers in Howell, MI for 39 years.

Recommended bellflowers LOW-GROWING (UNDER 12 INCHES) ‘Birch Hybrid’ (hybrid of C. poscharskyana and C. portenschlagiana) – Blue, starry, 6” tall, blooms June-July. ‘Samantha’ (C. carpatica) – Light purple with white center, cup-shaped, 12”, JuneAugust. Teacup Collection (C. carpatica) – Two varieties: ‘Delft Teacups’ and ‘Violet Teacups,’ cup-shaped, 8-10”, June-July. ‘Blue Waterfall’ (C. poscharskyana) – Lavender blue, starry, 10”, June then reblooming. ‘Resholdt’s Variety’ (C. portenschlagiana) – Deep violet, starry, 4”, late May to early July. Bluebells of Scotland (C. rotundifolia) and variety ‘Olympica’ – Light blue-violet, bell-shaped, thin wiry stems, 12”, late May then reblooming; native to eastern U.S. and northern Europe. Peganum/Flickr/Creative Commons

Great bellflower (C. latifolia f. alba)

TALLER (OVER 12 INCHES) ‘Caroline’ (C. glomerata) – Lavender, clusters of bells, 15” tall, blooms June-July; less floppy than others of its type. ‘Freya’ (C. glomerata) – Violet, clusters of bells, 16”, June-July. Compact and more floriferous. ‘Pink Octopus’ (C. punctata) - Pink, divided tubular bell, 14”, June-July. ‘Bowl of Cherries’ (C. punctata var. rubriflora) – Purplish red, tubular, 19”, late June to early September. Great Bellflower (C. latifolia f. alba) – White, bell-shaped, 30”, June-July; tolerates partial shade. Peach-leaf Bellflower (C. persicifolia) – Blue or white, bell-shaped, 24-30”, June; tolerates partial shade. ‘Sarastro’ (hybrid of C. punctata and C. trachelium) – Purple, tubular, 22”, June-July. ‘Viking’ – Lavender, tubular bells, 18”, June-July.

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HEADING UP NORTH? We’re just 7 minutes off of I-75!

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Michigan Gardener | June 2022 | MichiganGardener.com

Look for

Premium Landscape Supplies: Premium Soils • Organic Products Composted Pine Bark • Campania Fine Garden Statuary Rogue Hoes • Flagstone, Limestone & Boulders Bulk Michigan Peat • Delivery & Installation Services 8215 Elizabeth Lake Rd. • White Lake

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MulliganLandscaping.com Open 7 days during May & June

See what’s NEW and OLD at the oldest family farm in Michigan! Now available: Annuals, Perennials, Veggies, Herbs, Shrubs & Trees

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Where moments blossom and memories grow (734) 676-2444 westcroftgardens.com 21803 West River Rd, Grosse Ile, MI 48138

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MichiganGardener.com | June 2022 | Michigan Gardener

39 Celebrating 30 Years!

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ORGANIC GARDENING - Professional horticulturist, 35 years’ experience: Garden coaching, design, webinars, public speaking, staff training. Rosina Newton 512-638-3401, www.NewEarthHomeAndGarden.com.

NEED A HAND? Call “The little gardener that could.” 15 yrs experience at Botanical Gardens. FREE Estimates. Pat: 586-214-9852, agardenspace.com.

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. 248-4972674. Find me on Facebook.

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PART-TIME GARDENER WANTED. Flexible schedule. Weeding, planting, staking, deadheading. Work in private garden under direction of experienced head gardener. Franklin/Bingham Farms area. Emails please to: garden4321@yahoo.com.

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.”

ACTUAL Monthly 2.75 1.99 3.53

April 2021 DEVIATION from Normal -0.51 -1.14 +0.27

2022 Year to Date: Jan 1 - April 30

Detroit Flint Lansing

NORMAL Yr. to Date 10.00 8.77 9.16

33866 Woodward Ave•Birmingham

6275 Gotfredson Rd

248-644-4411 blossomsbirmingham.com

734-455-5560

Celebrating 45 Years!

Plymouth, MI 48170 (North off M-14)

FULL SERVICE FLORIST

CREATIVE SOLUTIONS FOR RESIDENTIAL LANDSCAPES April 2022

Detroit Flint Lansing

Boulders • Decorative Stone Aggregates • Flagstone Brick Pavers • Wall Stone & Steps Planters, Pots & Urns Waterfalls & Ponds • Fountains Fireplace Kits Mulch & much more!

GARDEN RHYTHMS

Precipitation NORMAL Monthly 3.26 3.13 3.26

DETROIT’S BEST FLORIST SINCE 1977

ACTUAL Yr. to Date 8.06 7.44 10.88

NORMAL Monthly 3.26 3.13 3.03

ACTUAL Monthly 1.79 1.55 1.67

DEVIATION from Normal -1.47 -1.58 -1.36

2021 Year to Date: Jan 1 - April 30

DEVIATION from Normal -1.94 -1.33 +1.72

NORMAL Yr. to Date 10.00 8.77 8.21

ACTUAL Yr. to Date 6.42 6.15 6.14

Design Consultation Site Analysis Garden Coaching Ornamental Pruning Certified Master Gardener & Designer 248-217-6459 • bevinbloom@comcast.net

DEVIATION from Normal -3.58 -2.62 -2.07

Temperature April 2022

April 2021

Detroit Flint Lansing

NORMAL Avg. High 59.1 57.3 57.8

ACTUAL Avg. High 55.0 53.6 54.8

DEVIATION from Normal -4.1 -3.7 -3.0

NORMAL Avg. High 59.1 57.3 57.8

ACTUAL Avg. High 61.1 60.6 59.9

DEVIATION from Normal +2.0 +3.3 +2.1

Detroit Flint Lansing

NORMAL Avg. Low 39.4 35.5 37.0

ACTUAL Avg. Low 38.7 34.6 36.8

DEVIATION from Normal -0.7 -0.9 -0.2

NORMAL Avg. Low 39.4 35.5 37.0

ACTUAL Avg. Low 40.1 37.8 37.9

DEVIATION from Normal +0.7 +2.3 +0.9

Data courtesy National Weather Service

LET A PRO TEND YOUR GARDEN! New Designs • Renovations • Consulting Planting • Weeding • Pruning • Much more to locate an APG professional gardener near you, visit:

www.associationofprofessionalgardeners.org

Garden Professionals: Check our website for how to join!

Annuals

Sun/Shade A to Z 36ct. Flats

Vegetable & Herb plants

Geraniums

Many varieties & colors

INSTANT COLOR!

• Heirloom Varieties • Seed Potatoes • 3 Greenhouses to choose from • Livingston County’s largest selection of vegetable & herb plants!

calendar June / July / August / September / October

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

Yard Décor Gazing Globes Stepping Stones Much, much more!

Hanging Baskets

• We grow over 10,000 Sun/Shade hanging baskets

Accent Plants

• Bacopa, potato vines & many Proven Winners

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Michigan Gardener | June 2022 | MichiganGardener.com

Perennials Bud & Bloom Groundcovers

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2355 E. COMMERCE RD. / COMMERCE TWP. 48382 / 248-363-6742

June Waterford Garden Club Meeting Thu, Jun 2, 10am, Waterford. At Waterford Senior Center. www.waterfordgardenclub.org. Integrated Pest Management Thu, Jun 2, 7-9pm, online. By Project Grow on Zoom. $15. www.projectgrowgardens.org. Storytime at Dow Gardens Fri, Jun 3, June-Aug, 10-11am, Midland. At Dow Gardens. Every Friday, hear award-winning books in Children’s Garden. 3rd Friday is super storytime. All ages welcome. www.dowgardens.org. Mayfly at Play Fri, Jun 3, 6-8:30pm, Ann Arbor. At Leslie Science & Nature Ctr. Age 18 or older event. Hors d‘oeuvres, dessert, cocktails. Make projects to be incorporated into activity areas. www.lesliesnc.org. Clarkston Perennial Plant Exchange Sat, Jun 4, 8:30am, Clarkston. By Clarkston Farm & Garden Club at Clarkston Village Parking Lot. Rain/shine. Pot/ID your plants. ID labels available on website: www.clarkstongardenclub.org. Annual Plant Sale: Northern Michigan Sat, Jun 4, 9am-1pm, Emmet County. By NM Master Gardener Association at Emmet County Fairgrounds, large barn. Plants are contributed by chapter members. www.michiganmastergardener.org. MSU Tollgate Spring Plant Sale Sat, Jun 4, 9am-2pm, Novi. At MSU Tollgate Farm. Sun/shade perennials available. Experienced garden volunteers will answer questions. www.canr.msu.edu. Peony Centennial Garden Walk Sat, Jun 4, 10am-4pm, Ann Arbor. By Ann Arbor Farm & Garden at 7 private gardens. Tickets $20 through Jun 3 at Michigan Union Ticket Office. Proceeds benefit Peony Garden. www.annarborfarmandgarden.org. Lake County Garden Day Sat, Jun 4, 10am-12noon, Baldwin. By MSU Extension at Lake County Historical Museum. Join fellow gardeners to discuss gardening and food preservation. 231-745-2732. 13th Annual Spring Garden Tour Sat, Jun 4, 10am-2pm, Detroit. By Black Cat Pottery, 3903 Grayton St. Cheryl English garden; over 200 species of native plants. www.blackcatpottery.com. 100 Years in Bloom: Peony Flower Show Sat, Jun 4, 10am-4:30pm, Ann Arbor. At Matthaei Botanical Gardens. American Peony Society’s annual cut flower show. Award-winning peony blooms and floral arrangements. americanpeonysociety.org. Self-Guided Saturdays: Dow Home Sat, Jun 4, 11am-1pm, Midland. At Dow Gardens. Experience the 1899 Dow home at your own pace. Docents on hand. www.dowgardens.org. Trunk Plant Exchange & Garden Gift Basket Sale Sat, Jun 4, 12noon-2pm, Harrison Twp. By Harrison Township Beautification Commission at William Tucker Park. Gardeners sharing plants & info. 586-242-3868. H Bonsai Workshop Sat, Jun 4, 1pm, Troy. At Telly’s. $45. Class also available 6/11, 6/18, 6/25. Make-and-take workshop. Plant & create your own bonsai tree. Limited space. Register: www.tellys.com. Peony Concert & Centennial Celebrations Sat, Jun 4, 1-3pm, Ann Arbor. At Nichols Arboretum. Celebrate peony garden centennial. mbgna.umich.edu.

The Dows in Their Words Sat, Jun 4, 1:30-2:30pm, Midland. At Dow Gardens. Join us in the 1899 Pines Home; excerpts read from family letters; Dow family life at the turn of the century. www.dowgardens.org. Mayfly a Day of Play Sat, Jun 4, 4-7pm, Ann Arbor. At Leslie Science & Nature Ctr. Raising funds for new nature playscape. All ages. www.lesliesnc.org. Iris Show Sat, Jun 4, & Sun, Jun 5, Grand Rapids. At Frederik Meijer Gardens. Tall bearded & Siberian iris blossoms on display. www.meijergardens.org. Octagon House Plant Sale Sun, Jun 5, 10am-3pm, Washington. At Octagon House, 57500 Van Dyke Ave. Re-potted perennials (both native & non-native) available. dputt5@yahoo.com. Clarkston Garden Club Meeting Mon, Jun 6, Clarkston. Info: www.clarkstongardenclub.org. Organic Vegetable Gardening & Landscaping Mon, Jun 6, June through Fall. Several dates/times available. Rosina Newton teaches live zoom classes with Q&A. www.NewEarthHomeAndGarden.com, 512-638-3401. Ford House Grounds Pass Tue, Jun 7, 8am-Dusk, Grosse Pointe Shores. At Ford House. Open Tuesdays thru Sundays. $5/grounds admission. www.fordhouse.org. Clancy E. Lewis Landscape Arboretum Tour Tue, Jun 7, East Lansing. By Capital Area Master Gardeners at MSU. With Brian Gayheart, new Arboretum Manager. mgacac.wordpress.com. Edelweiss Garden Club Meeting Wed, Jun 8, 9:30am, Gaylord. By Edelweiss Garden Club at Otsego Co. Library Meeting Room. New members welcome. Find us on Facebook. Flower Ladies Bouquet-Making Wed, Jun 8, 10am-3pm, Ann Arbor. By Ann Arbor Farm & Garden. www.annarborfarmandgarden.org. H 36th Annual Franklin Garden Walk Wed, Jun 8, 10am-4pm & 6-9pm, Franklin. By Women’s National Farm & Garden Association & Franklin Garden Club. $12 presale tickets @ The Village Boutique or 2022franklingardenwalk.eventbrite.com. Maps, directions & tickets ($15) available on tour day at Gazebo. Artisan Market next to Franklin Green. www.franklingardenclub.org, Shelley Krieg: 248-761-2062. Honey, Who Shrunk the Shrubs? Wed, Jun 8, 12:30pm, Grand Rapids. By Kent Garden Club at Frederik Meijer Gardens. Presented by Natalie Carmolli. www.kentgardenclub.org. Tree Talk and Q&A Wed, Jun 8, 7-8pm, Bloomfield Twp. At Bloomfield Township Public Library. Free. Learn how to properly plant & maintain trees from expert arborist. www.BTPL.org, 248-642-5800. Van Hoosen Program Thu, Jun 9, 9am-4pm, Rochester Hills. By Rochester Garden Club at Van Hoosen Farm. Free. Learn about favorite annuals/perennials. All are welcome. www.rochestergardenclub.org. Genesee County Herb Society Meeting Thu, Jun 9, 6pm, Genesee County. Call for meeting place: 810-406-8325 or 810-964-2208. Ferndale Garden Club Meeting Thu, Jun 9, 7pm, Ferndale. At the Pavilion at Harding Park. Presentation: Oakland County Cooperative’s Invasive Species Management Area. Open to public & free.

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

MichiganGardener.com | June 2022 | Michigan Gardener

Grosse Ile Garden Club Thu, Jun 9, 7:30pm, Grosse Ile. By Grosse Ile Garden Club. Info: g.i.eveninggardenclub@live.com. H Fairy Fest Thu, Jun 9, Thu-Sun, Monroe. At The Flower Market. Make-and-take workshops, local artisans, & more. See Facebook for details. 734-269-2660. Yardeners Native Plant Sale Fri, Jun 10, 3-6pm & Sat, Jun 11, 9am-Noon, St Clair Shores. By Yardeners of St. Clair Shores on grounds of Selinsky-Green Farmhouse Museum. Cash/Check only. scsyardeners@gmail.com. Home Vegetable Gardening Sat, Jun 11, 10-11am, by MSU Tollgate. Part of 2022 Homegrown Garden Series. $12/household per session. $90 for series. Interactive virtual and hybrid series. www.canr.msu.edu. Native Plant Sale Sat, Jun 11, 10am-1pm, Hartland. By Hartland Home & Garden Club at Cromaine Library south lawn. Native plant list: www.eastmichnatives.com. debcad@charter.net. Perennial & Garden Treasure Sale Sat, Jun 11, 10am-4pm, Plymouth. Details: www.TrailwoodGardenClub.com, 734-459-7146. Native Plant Sale Sat, Jun 11, 10am-4pm, Clarkston. By Blue Heron Headwaters Conservancy at 7121 Dixie (Neiman’s Family Market parking). Offering 60 native species. www.blueheronheadwaters.org. Focus on Flowers Sat, Jun 11, 11am–2pm & Sun, Jun 12, 1-4pm, Grand Rapids. At Frederik Meijer Gardens. Smell the flowers at Michigan’s Farm Garden. www.meijergardens.org. 78th Annual Iris Show Sun, Jun 12, 7am-4:30pm, Hale. By Mio Irisarians at Plainfield Township Hall. Open to public at 1:30. Entering info: mioirisarians@gmail.com. Plant a Rainbow Terrarium Workshop Sun, Jun 12, 1-2:30pm, Niles. At Fernwood Botanical Gardens. $75/person. Register by Jun 7. Info/register: www.fernwoodbotanical.org. Bog Plant Community Mon, Jun 13, 10am-1pm, Interlochen. By Plant It Wild at Lost Lake Recreation Pathway. Visit a bog & surrounding pine-oak forest. Registration: Plantitwild2day@gmail.com. Master Gardener College Mon, Jun 13, & Thu-Fri, Jun 16-17, virtual & in-person. By MSU Extension. Speakers, workshops, tours & more. 517-353-3175. Register: events@anr.msu.edu. Master Gardener Society of Oakland Cty Meeting Tue, Jun 14, 6:30pm, via Zoom. Info: www.mgsoc.org. Dunes Blooms Wed, Jun 15, 10am, Traverse City. By Plant It Wild at Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy. Register: www.gtrlc.org/recreation-events/events/ Cranbrook House Tour & Lunch Wed, Jun 15, 11am-1:30pm, Bloomfield Hills. At Cranbrook House & Gardens. Tour with lunch in Cranbrook House setting. www.housegardens.cranbrook.edu. Extinction in Our Backyards Wed, Jun 15, 7-8pm, Zoom. By Plant It Wild. Discuss prairie ecology before exploring how habitat loss, land use & climate change have influenced extinction of many prairie plant species. www.PlantItWild.net. Rochester Garden Walk Thu, Jun 16, 10am-5pm, Rochester Hills. By Rochester Garden Club & Rochester Museum at Van Hoosen Farm. $12/advance. $16/day of. Native plant sale, gently used garden items & more. www.RochesterGardenClub.org. Herbert Dow’s Garden Tour Thu, Jun 16, 1-2:30pm, Midland. At Dow Gardens. Stroll back in time. Photographs, letters & journals from archive shed light on how property looked when it was private residence of Dow family. www.dowgardens.org. Monarch Presentation Thu, Jun 16, 7pm, Westland. By SE Michigan Butterfly Association at CrossWalk Community Church. $3/guest. Presented by Brenda Dziedzic. www.sembabutterfly.org. Herbert Dow’s Garden Tour Fri, Jun 17, 5-6:30pm, Midland. At Dow Gardens. Stroll back in time. Photographs, letters & journals from archive shed light on how property looked when it was private residence of Dow family. www.dowgardens.org. Milford Garden Club Annual Garden Walk Fri, Jun 17, & Sat, Jun 18, Milford. By Milford Garden Club at 6 area gardens. Tickets: $12/advance at Acorn Farms, Clothing Cove, Bogie Lake Greenhouse. $15/day of, only at United Methodist Church. www.themilfordgardenclub.org.

Edelweiss Garden Club Plant Exchange Sat, Jun 18, 10am-Noon, Gaylord. At the Sportsplex. Follow little red truck to 1st annual community plant exchange. Rain or shine. www.edelweissgardenclub.org. Pollineighbor Celebration Sat, Jun 18, 11am-4pm, Novi. At MSU Tollgate Farm. $10/ person. Educational event during International Pollinator’s Week. www.canr.msu.edu. Greater Lansing Orchid Society Seminar Sat, Jun 18, Details TBA. With GLJC. Questions: www.greaterlansingorchidsociety.com. Garden City Garden Club Meeting Tue, Jun 21, 7-9pm, Garden City. By Garden City Garden Club at Maplewood Community Center. Find us on Facebook. Invasive Species Training Seminar Wed, Jun 22, 9-11am, Tecumseh. At AJ Smith Recreation Ctr. Free. Techniques & environmental considerations for management. Register by Jun 17: shikha.singh@macd.org. Fundraiser Rummage Sale Fri, Jun 24, 10am-4pm & Sun, Jun 26, 10am-1pm, Warren. Warren Garden Club at Old Village Hall, 5961 Beebe. Fundraiser for annual scholarship. 586-215-4288. Grosse Pointe Garden Center 30th Annual Garden Tour Fri, Jun 24, & Sat, Jun 25, Grosse Pointe. 8 area gardens plus Enrichment Series on “Creatures of the Night”. Learning stations on bats, moths & other beneficial nocturnal dwellers. Garden shoppe & artists in the gardens. www.gpgardencenter.org, 313-499-0743. Tri-Cities Garden Club Garden Walk Sat, Jun 25, 10am-4pm, Grand Haven. By Tri-Cities Garden Club. $12/person. 5-6 gardens to enjoy. Rain/shine. Plant sale, raffle & more. www.tricitiesgardenclub.org. larry_d_r@hotmail.com. Cranbrook & Friends Garden Walk Sat, Jun 25, 10am-4pm, Bloomfield Hills. By Cranbrook Gardens. $12/advance. $15/day of. Discover a hosta garden with 700+ varieties, a whimsical garden, native plants & much more. www.housegardens.cranbrook.edu. Lakeside Garden Walk Sat, Jun 25, 11am-5pm, Lakeside. Lakeside Association of Harbor Country at 8 local gardens. Proceeds to Scholarship Fund for high school seniors. www.thelakesideassociation.com. Time in the Garden Art Exhibit Closing Reception Sun, Jun 26, 2-4pm, Ann Arbor. At Matthaei Botanical Gardens. Experience the relationships between nature, time, & change. Pieces from 30 local artists. mbgna.umich.edu. MSU Green Science Adventure Farm Camp Mon, Jun 27, to Fri, July 1, Novi. At MSU Tollgate. Ages 6-12. $375. Flagship farm camp offers great taste of farm life. Other themed camps available. Register: www.canr.msu.edu. Flowers are Forever Garden Walk Tue, Jun 28, 11am, Plymouth. By Trailwood Garden Club. www.trailwoodgardenclub.com.

July Photo Walk Sat, Jul 2, 8-10am, Troy. At Stage Nature Center. $2. Dress for weather & bring your camera. Register: www.trailblz.info. Wildflower Tours Wed, Jul 6, 1-2:30pm & 6-7:30pm, Midland. At Dow Gardens. Celebrate the wildflowers of Dow Gardens with horticulturists Chuck Martin & Trent Bowen. www.dowgardens.org. Organic Vegetable Gardening & Landscaping Wed, Jul 6, June through Fall. Several dates/times available. Rosina Newton teaches live zoom classes with Q&A. www.NewEarthHomeAndGarden.com, 512-638-3401. Waterford Garden Club Meeting Thu, Jul 7, 10am, Waterford. At Waterford Senior Center. www.waterfordgardenclub.org. Adaptive Gardening for Health & Wellbeing Sat, Jul 9, 10am-12noon, Novi. By MSU Tollgate. Special 2-hour hybrid workshop by Michigan Horticultural Therapy Association Therapists. www.events.anr.msu.edu. LACASA Annual Garden Tour Sat, Jul 9, & Sun, Jul 10; Livingston County. By LACASA. Gardeners share their gardens and love of fauna & flora. www.lacasacenter.org. continued on next page

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Michigan Gardener | June 2022 | MichiganGardener.com

continued from previous page 31st Annual Welcome to My Garden Tour Sat, Jul 9, & Sun, Jul 10, 10-4pm, Marshall. By Marshall Area Garden Club at 6 gardens. $15 at Fountain Circle Information Booth. Rain or shine. www.marshallareagardenclub.org, 800-877-5163. Project Wingspan: Creating Habitat for Imperiled Pollinators Sun, Jul 10, 10:30am-1pm, Niles. At Fernwood Botanical Gardens. $15/person. Register: www.fernwoodbotanical.org. Master Gardening Tea Sun, Jul 10, TBA, Lapeer. By Lapeer County Gardeners. www.lc-mga.org. Master Gardener Society of Oakland Cty Meeting Tue, Jul 12, 6:30pm, via Zoom. www.mgsoc.org. Ornamental Grasses Tue, Jul 12, 6-8pm & Wed, Jul 13, 10:30-12:30pm, Clinton Twp. At MSU Extension Office. Presentation on why turf alternatives should be considered, plant recommendations & an outdoor walk. events.anr.msu.edu. Northville Garden Walk Wed, Jul 13, 9am-4pm, Northville. By Country Garden Club of Northville at 6 private gardens, plus vendors. Advance tickets $12 beginning June 11 at Gardenviews and Eventbrite.com. Day of tickets $15, at Green Space behind Northville Library. Proceeds support local & national horticultural orgs. www.cgcnv.org, 734-788-9935. Edelweiss Garden Club Meeting Wed, Jul 13, 9:30am, Gaylord. By Edelweiss Garden Club at Otsego Co. Library Meeting Room. New members welcome. Find us on Facebook. 47th Troy Garden Walk: Kaleidoscope of Gardens Wed, Jul 13, 9:30am-3pm & 5pm-8:30pm, Troy. By Troy Garden Club at 6 private gardens. Rain/shine. Advance tickets: $12 sold at Auburn Oaks Garden Center, Telly’s Greenhouse, Troy Historic Village, Uncle Luke’s. Day of: $15 at Troy Historic Village. www.TroyGardenClubMI.com, 248-535-5955. Flower Ladies Bouquet-Making Wed, Jul 13, 10am-3pm, Ann Arbor. By Ann Arbor Farm & Garden. www.annarborfarmandgarden.org. Herbert Dow’s Garden Tour Thu, Jul 14, 1-2:30pm, Midland. At Dow Gardens. Stroll back in time. Photographs, letters & journals from archive shed light on how property looked when it was private residence of Dow family. www.dowgardens.org. Ferndale Garden Club Meeting Thu, Jul 14, 7pm, Ferndale. At the Pavilion at Harding Park. Presentation TBD. Open to public & free. Nature’s Creative Edge: 63rd Annual Standard Flower Show Thu, Jul 14, to Sat, Jul 16; Spring Lake. By Tri-Cities Garden Club at Spring Lake District Library. tricitiesgardenclub.org. Herbert Dow’s Garden Tour Fri, Jul 15, 5-6:30pm, Midland. At Dow Gardens. Stroll back in time. Photographs, letters & journals from archive shed light on how property looked when it was private residence of Dow family. www.dowgardens.org. Thornapple Garden Tour & Garden Market Sat, Jul 16, 10am-4pm, Hastings. By Thornapple Garden Club. Find us on Facebook. Romeo Garden Walk Sat, Jul 16, 11am-4pm, Romeo. By Romeo & Juliet Garden Club at 6 gardens. $15/advance. $20/day of. Tickets at Romeo Public Libraries, Town Hall Antiques & MJC Marketplace. Gardening for Hummingbirds & Orioles Tue, Jul 19, 6:30pm, Clinton Twp. By Macomb County Master Gardener Association at VerKuilen Building. $5/ donation. Learn how gardening can draw hummingbirds & orioles to your property. Garden City Garden Club Meeting Tue, Jul 19, 7-9pm, Garden City. At Maplewood Community Center. Find us on Facebook. Clarkston Garden Walk Wed, Jul 20, Clarkston. By Clarkston Garden Club. www.clarkstongardenclub.org. MSU Tollgate Garden Open House Thu, Jul 21, 6-8:30pm, Novi. At MSU Tollgate. Tours, docents, hay rides & refreshments. www.canr.msu.edu. Butterfly Meeting Thu, Jul 21, 7pm, Westland. By SE Michigan Butterfly Association at CrossWalk Community Church. www.sembabutterfly.org. 26th Annual Kirtland Garden Tour Sat, Jul 23, 9am-3pm, Higgins & Houghton Lake area. By Kirtland Garden Club. 8-10 selected gardens in area. Self guided. $10/person. Tickets: 732-684-5497, 732-684-5497.

Inspirations Garden Tour Sat, Jul 23, 9am-4pm, Harrison Township. By Harrison Township Beautification Commission at 8 gardens. Pick up maps at Tucker Senior Center. $10 presale at Township office. $15 day of. Info: Sue Keehn: 586-242-3868, keehns@wowway.com. Garden City Garden Club 28th Annual Garden Walk Sat, Jul 23, 10am-3pm, Garden City. At Straight Farmhouse. $20/ticket includes lunch. Tickets at Barson’s (before tour day) & the Farmhouse (day of). Vendor show & plant sale. 734-564-3868. Farmington Hills Summer Dreams Garden Walk Sat, Jul 23, 10am-4pm, Farmington Hills. By Farmington Hills Garden Club at 7 gardens. Tickets $15 at Steinkopf Nursery until Jul 22. $20 day of, at The Governor Warner Museum. www.Farmingtongardenclub.com. Mindful Meandering Garden Walk & Marketplace Sat, Jul 23, 10am-4pm, Port Sanilac. By Port Sanilac Garden Club at the Stone Mission. Find us on Facebook for ticket info starting Jun 15. c1baurhenn@aol.com. Butterfly Garden Walk Sat, Jul 23, By SE Michigan Butterfly Association. Info: www.sembabutterfly.org. Daylily Show Sat, Jul 23, Grand Rapids. At Frederik Meijer Gardens. See an amazing variety of daylily flowers. Greater Lansing Orchid Society Picnic/ Grand Orchid Mart Sat, Jul 23, Info: www.greaterlansingorchidsociety.com. Hosta Show Sat, Jul 23, & Sun, Jul 24, Grand Rapids. At Frederik Meijer Gardens. Hosta leaves will be displayed, showcasing amazing variety. Hosta Society members available to answer questions. www.meijergardens.org. H Open Gate Summer Garden Tour Sun, Jul 24, 10am, Fenton. By Open Gate Garden Club at area gardens. Tickets at Bordine’s of Grand Blanc, Gerych’s, Heavenly Scent Herb Farm, Weed Lady. $10/ advance. $12/day of. Amy Doyle: 810-444-7621. Grandmont Garden Walk Sat, Jul 30, 11am-4pm, Detroit. By Grandmont Beautification & Garden Club Committee at Douglas Ramsel Playground. $10 tickets. Programs available tour day at 10:30am. Profits to scholarship fund to help high school graduates in community. 313-300-3760. Natural, Organically Styled Floral Design Sat, Jul 30, 1-2:30pm, Niles. At Fernwood Botanical Gardens. $75/person. Info/register: www.fernwoodbotanical.org. Butterfly Association and Detroit Audubon Sat, Jul 30, Westland. By SE Michigan Butterfly Association & Detroit Audubon at Corrado Park. www.sembabutterfly.org.

August Clarkston Garden Club Meeting Mon, Aug 1, Clarkston. Membership info: www.clarkstongardenclub.org. Organic Vegetable Gardening & Landscaping Wed, Aug 3, June through Fall. Several dates/times available. Rosina Newton teaches live zoom classes with Q&A. www.NewEarthHomeAndGarden.com, 512-638-3401. Waterford Garden Club Meeting Thu, Aug 4, 10am, Waterford. At Waterford Senior Center. www.waterfordgardenclub.org. Photo Walk Sat, Aug 6, 8-10am, Troy. At Stage Nature Center. $2. Dress for weather & bring your camera. Register: www.trailblz.info. Yardeners 29th Annual Garden Tour Sat, Aug 6, 9am-3pm, St. Clair Shores. By Yardeners of St. Clair Shores at Selinsky-Green Farmhouse Museum. $5. Self-guided driving tour. Tickets, registration & maps at Museum. scsyardeners@gmail.com. Dow Gardens: Self-Guided Saturdays Sat, Aug 6, 11am-1pm, Midland. At Dow Gardens. Experience the 1899 home of Herbert H. & Grace A. Dow at your own pace. Docents on hand. www.dowgardens.org. Genesee County Garden Tour Sun, Aug 7, 10am-4pm, Genesee County. By Master Gardener Association of Genesee Cty. Advance tickets at Bordine Nursery, Walker Farms, & Beadin’ Mon. Selfguided tour focusing on Swartz Creek area. Master Gardeners on hand to answer questions. http://gcgardentour.weebly.com/.

Milarch Nursery 28500 Haas Rd., Wixom, MI 48393 248-437-2094 www.milarchnursery.com May/June hours: For 2022, we are only open exclusively to Licensed Landscape Contractors. The finest nursery stock and perennials since 1972. We grow and maintain quality plants, along with special care in handling. 27 acres of shade and flowering trees, evergreens, flowering shrubs, perennials and groundcovers. Landscape-grade sizes are available. We offer each customer a knowledgeable salesperson to assist with plant selection.

Bock’s Big Acre 1360 E. M-36, Pinckney, MI 48169 734-878-3092 @EdBockFeeds Yearly hours: 7 days, 9-6 Your gardening needs under one roof: perennials, natives, annuals, vegetables, herbs, shrubs, ornamental trees, patio pots, hanging baskets, bird feeders and seed, potting soil, compost, bagged mulch, fertilizers, yard art, statuary, pottery, outdoor furniture, Weaver barns. Three learning gardens include a Monarch Waystation, Xerces Pollinator Habitat and Registered Rain Garden.

Grasshopper Gardens 9020 Maltby Rd., Brighton, MI 48116 810-220-4406 www.grasshoppergardensmi.com May/June hours: Mon-Fri 9-7, Sat 9-6, Sun 9-5. Full-service garden center. Wonderful plant selection: trees, shrubs, annuals, perennials, fruits, vegetables. Gardening tools, supplies; pottery, statuary, sculpture, ornaments, outdoor decor. Whether you want a relaxing backyard oasis or vibrant place to gather with friends and family, we can help make your vision a reality.

Meier Flowerland 8087 W. Grand River, Brighton, MI 48114 810-229-9430 www.meierflowerland.com May/June hours: Mon-Sat 9-7, Sun 9-6. Where you’re only limited by your imagination! We grow over 10,000 sun/shade hanging baskets. Plus annuals, geraniums, patio and deck pots for instant color, shrubs, roses, yard décor, gazing globes, stepping stones, more. Vegetables and herbs, including heirloom varieties. Wednesdays are Senior Day: 15% off live plants. Since 1954.

Van Atta’s Greenhouse 9008 Old M-78, Haslett, MI 48840 517-339-1142 www.vanattas.com May hours: Mon-Sat 9-7, Sun 10-6. June hours: Please call to confirm. One of the largest selections of plants and garden accents in Southeastern Michigan. We grow an enormous variety of perennials. There’s a good chance we have that one plant you’ve been searching for, or the garden ornament that sets your yard apart. Come stroll our grounds—you’ll be amazed at what you find.

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

Degree Days & Phenology Tue, Aug 9, 6:30pm, via Zoom. By Master Gardener Society of Oakland Cty. Speaker: David Lowenstein. www.mgsoc.org. Edelweiss Garden Club Meeting Wed, Aug 10, 9:30am, Gaylord. By Edelweiss Garden Club at Otsego Cty Library Meeting Room. New members welcome. Find us on Facebook. Flower Ladies Bouquet-Making Wed, Aug 10, 10am-3pm, Ann Arbor. By Ann Arbor Farm & Garden. www.annarborfarmandgarden.org. Pruning to Enrich the Garden Wed, Aug 10, 1pm, Troy. By Troy Garden Club at Big Beaver United Methodist. Presentation by Emily Fronckowiak. www.troygardenclubmi.com. Ferndale Garden Club Meeting Thu, Aug 11, 7pm, Ferndale. At the Pavilion at Harding Park. Presentation TBD. Open to public & free. Integrated Pest Management for the Veggie Garden Sat, Aug 13, 10-11am. By MSU Tollgate. Part of 2022 HomeGrown Gardening Series. $12/household per session. $90 for series. www.canr.msu.edu. Greater Lansing Orchid Society Zoom Meeting Sat, Aug 13, 6pm, via Zoom. Membership info: www.greaterlansingorchidsociety.com. Garden City Garden Club Meeting Tue, Aug 16, 3rd Tue, 7-9pm, Garden City. At Maplewood Community Center. Find us on Facebook. Herbert Dow’s Garden Tour Thu, Aug 18, 1-2:30pm, Midland. At Dow Gardens. Stroll back in time. Photographs, letters & journals from archive shed light on how property looked when it was private residence of Dow family. www.dowgardens.org. Butterfly Meeting Thu, Aug 18, 7pm, Westland. By SE Michigan Butterfly Association at CrossWalk Community Church. www.sembabutterfly.org. Herbert Dow’s Garden Tour Fri, Aug 19, 5-6:30pm, Midland. At Dow Gardens. Stroll back in time. Photographs, letters & journals from archive shed light on how property looked when it was private residence of Dow family. www.dowgardens.org.

12th Annual Summer Garden Tour Sat, Aug 20, 10am-2pm, Detroit. By Black Cat Pottery, 3903 Grayton St. Designed as a teaching & learning space, the garden has over 200 species of native plants. www.blackcatpottery.com. Summer Faire Sat, Aug 27, 10am-5pm & Sun, Aug 28, 11am-4pm, Fenton. At Heavenly Scent Herb Farm. 48 different artisans. www.heavenlyscentherbfarm.com. Dahlia Show Sat, Aug 27, 12-5pm & Sun, Aug 28, 11am-5pm, Grand Rapids. At Frederick Meijer Gardens. Hundreds of dahlias on display. Flower sizes from golf ball to dinner plate size. www.meijergardens.org.

September Dow Gardens: Self-Guided Saturdays Sat, Sep 3, 11am-1pm, Midland. At Dow Gardens. Experience the 1899 home of Herbert H. & Grace A. Dow at your own pace. Docents on hand. www.dowgardens.org. The Dows in Their Words Sat, Sep 3, 1:30-2:30pm, Midland. At Dow Gardens. Join us in the 1899 Pines Home, as we read excerpts from family letters & shine a spotlight on Dow family life at the turn of the century. www.dowgardens.org. Ferndale Garden Club Meeting Thu, Sep 8, 7pm, Ferndale. At the Pavilion at Harding Park. Presentation TBD. Open to public & free. Processing & Preserving Your Homegrown Produce Sat, Sep 10, 10-11am. By MSU Tollgate. Part of 2022 Homegrown Gardening Series. $12/household per session. $90 for series. www.canr.msu.edu. Clarkston Garden Club Meeting Mon, Sep 12, Clarkston. Membership info: www.clarkstongardenclub.org. Master Gardener Society of Oakland Cty General Meeting Tue, Sep 13, 6:30pm, via Zoom. www.mgsoc.org. Edelweiss Garden Club Meeting Wed, Sep 14, 9:30am, Gaylord. By Edelweiss Garden Club at Otsego Co. Library Meeting Room. New members welcome. Find us on Facebook.

Flower Ladies Bouquet-Making Wed, Sep 14, 10am-3pm, Ann Arbor. By Ann Arbor Farm & Garden. www.annarborfarmandgarden.org. Great Lakes Hummingbirds Wed, Sep 14, 1pm, Troy. By Troy Garden Club at Big Beaver United Methodist. Presentation by Allen T. Chartier. www.troygardenclubmi.com. Butterfly Meeting Thu, Sep 15, 7pm, Westland. By SE Michigan Butterfly Association at CrossWalk Community Church. www.sembabutterfly.org. Chrysanthemums & More Fri, Sep 16, thru Oct 30. Grand Rapids. At Frederik Meijer Gardens. Explore the captivating chrysanthemum. 616-957-1580. H Garden Day 2022 Sat, Sep 17, 8am-4pm, East Lansing. By MSU at Plant & Soil Sciences Building. $99. Keynote Speaker: Art Cameron. Info/register: hrt.msu.edu/garden-day. Yardeners Fall Plant Exchange Sat, Sep 17, 9-11am, St. Clair Shores. By Yardeners of St. Clair Shores at St. Clair Shores Library parking lot. Label all plants. scsyardeners@gmail.com. Dahlias: Annual Dahlia Show & Competition Sat, Sep 17, 12noon-9pm & Sun, Sep 18, 9am-3pm, West Bloomfield. By Southeastern Michigan Dahlia Society at Orchard Mall. Hundreds of dahlias of varying size, color & form. www.semds.org, 248-689-5947. Greater Lansing Orchid Society Meeting Sat, Sep 17, 6pm, Okemos. At 2-42 Community Center. www.greaterlansingorchidsociety.com. Garden City Garden Club Meeting Tue, Sep 20, 7-9pm, Garden City. At Maplewood Community Center. Find us on Facebook.

October Fall Bonsai Show Sat, Oct 1, 10am-5pm & Sun, Oct 2, 11am-5pm, Grand Rapids. At Frederick Meijer Gardens. Variety of bonsai on display, from trees in early stages of training to older trees.

Dahlias: Digging, Dividing & Storing Sat, Oct 1, 2-4pm, Troy. By SE Michigan Dahlia Society at Telly’s Greenhouse. Dr. Keith Berven & members will be demonstrating the how-to’s of digging, dividing & storing tubers. www.semds.org, 248-689-5947. Clarkston Garden Club Meeting Mon, Oct 3, Clarkston. Membership info: www.clarkstongardenclub.org. Fall into Spring Educational Gardening Conference Sat, Oct 8, 8am-3:30pm, Flint. By Master Gardener Assoc of Genesee Cty at Mott Community College. Speakers include: Jan Bills, Gene Hopp, Erin Hill, Sandra Wilkins. www.geneseecountymg.org. Yardeners: This is my Favorite Garden Tool Mon, Oct 10, 7pm, St. Clair Shores. By Yardeners at St. Clair Shores Public Library. Free. We discuss our favorite garden tools. scsyardeners@gmail.com. Master Gardener Society of Oakland Cty General Meeting Tue, Oct 11, 6:30pm, via Zoom. www.mgsoc.org. Edelweiss Garden Club Meeting Wed, Oct 12, 9:30am, Gaylord. By Edelweiss Garden Club at Otsego Cty Library Meeting Room. New members welcome. Find us on Facebook. Flower Ladies Bouquet-Making Wed, Oct 12, 10am-3pm, Ann Arbor. By Ann Arbor Farm & Garden. www.annarborfarmandgarden.org. Ford House Gardens Wed, Oct 12, 1pm, Troy. By Troy Garden Club at Big Beaver United Methodist. Presentation by Karl Koto. www.troygardenclubmi.com. Garden City Garden Club Meeting Tue, Oct 18, 7-9pm, Garden City. At Maplewood Community Center. Find us on Facebook. Butterfly Meeting Thu, Oct 20, 7pm, Westland. By SE Michigan Butterfly Association at CrossWalk Community Church. www.sembabutterfly.org.

Michigan Gardener | June 2022 | MichiganGardener.com

Shane Eason and Jac Blanco chose striking light aqua highlights for their Dutch colonial revival home.

Reviving a historic home and garden S

Shane Eason and Jac Blanco are busily gardening and preserving a 1921 Dutch colonial revival home in Detroit

hane Eason and Jac Blanco moved to their Detroit home in historic Palmer Woods in 2016. They loved the history of the home and the piece de resistance was the Lord and Burnham greenhouse connecting the house to the garage. There were keen gardeners living there at one time, but for the last 20 years nothing had been done. Shane and Jac are hard at work to turn that around, starting with the front garden. The only plants living in the front were rudbeckias, daylilies, echinaceas, hostas, and weeds. Many of those plants were kept, but pared down to a more suitable quantity that

fit into their garden vision. Six dappled wilThe ‘Cherries Jubilee’ nasturtium along lows covered the entire front of the house and the walk serves as more than just a pretty five of those were removed, leaving face. The edible flowers are used one on the right corner of the house. on their salads, adding a peppery They painted the house accents a taste. To ensure they are safe to eat, striking light aqua, with a welcomno pesticide sprays are used, and ing yellow door. The narrow pyraonly organic fertilizer is employed. midal ‘Emerald Green’ arborvitae Liquid seaweed is applied to their adds visually interesting vertical plants once a week. points in the landscape. To ensure The home and greenhouse the arbs don’t split open, which ofI was invited into their home so ten happens with the heavy snows Lisa I could enter the greenhouse. I was we have in Michigan, they are Steinkopf blown away by the size of the foyer, wired inside and artfully clipped.

with a staircase that split halfway up, turning left and right. At one time, Shane and Jac hosted a play with a small audience, using the grand staircase as the backdrop. Though you can’t tell from the front of the home, which you would assume is two stories, from the side you can see third-floor windows. A ballroom makes up the third floor, along with a maid’s quarters and bathroom. If you venture down the main floor hallway on the staircase’s right side, you are led into the original Lord and Burnham greenhouse. In the middle of this stunning structure lies an in-ground bed, while raised

MichiganGardener.com | June 2022 | Michigan Gardener

planting beds filled with lavender run along each side. A door in the back wall leads to the attached garage. This door is surrounded by lattice covered with ivy to soften the wall. As you can imagine, this would be the perfect place to share an intimate dinner or enjoy coffee in the morning.

Tomatoes galore It is a working greenhouse in the winter and early spring when Shane and Jac start their sweet peas, cosmos, zinnias, and six varieties of tomatoes. At the end of December, the plants get their start in the greenhouse

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

so they can be ready to go out in the spring. Over 50 tomato plants are grown and moved to their driveway in the summer. They love heirloom tomatoes including Black Beauty, Big Rainbow, and Cherokee Purple. These plants thrive in a protected spot surrounded on three sides by the house, greenhouse, and garage. The heat from the walls and the cement drive is the perfect place for tomatoes. continued on next page

The edible flowers of ‘Cherries Jubilee’ nasturtium are used on salads.

Shane Eason (left) and Jac Blanco (right) in front of their historic home and garden.

A variety of plants adorn the pergola, including hibiscus, wisteria, and various tropicals.

Michigan Gardener | June 2022 | MichiganGardener.com

The 60-foot pergola was a pandemic project, built in 2020. continued from previous page In late summer, they are moved back into the conservatory because they ripen faster, grow enormous, and are saved from being devoured by squirrels and groundhogs. Whiteflies are sometimes a problem, but at least they aren’t eating the tomatoes. The lucky neighbors get to share in the bounty from this abundant harvest.

The pergola project The 60-foot long pergola constructed in the side yard is a copy of the pergola that was originally there; the existing footings were still able to be used. Its filigree dome, formerly part of a gazebo, was found at an antique sale. Shane and Jac considered this charming topping a perfect added touch to the lengthy pergola. The two hibiscuses on either side of the pergola were gifted to them by the original owner’s great granddaughter. The dahlias and cannas are grown in black pots and placed in decorative pots. They are then overwintered in those black pots, as Shane and Jac learned it is easier not to move the heavier pots. They pop the plastic pots out and it works perfectly to overwinter them. Floribunda wisterias are planted next to the columns, as they find those plants have bigger racemes and will be more impactful. I can’t wait to visit again to see this pergola when it is smothered in purple wisteria! continued on page 48

The view from the home looking into the greenhouse.

MichiganGardener.com | June 2022 | Michigan Gardener

These picturesque, aged yews were uncovered when Shane and Jac cleared a section of the yard.

Glorious perennials, a dappled willow, and vertical arborvitaes surround the path to the front door.

Shane and Jac love tomatoes and grow 50 plants on their driveway.

Michigan Gardener | June 2022 | MichiganGardener.com

Website Extra Go to MichiganGardener.com and click on “Website Extras” for more photos of the Eason/Blanco garden.

Myrealgarden and Shane and Jac at Maketheworldabeautifulplace. Another silver lining is that they made many new friends around the world, met through this social media platform.

Future border continued from page 46 The pergola was a Covid shutdown project. The couple had been wanting to do it, and the pandemic proved to be a perfect time, when they were stuck at home. They ordered the pillars and went from there. Shane and Jac want to make individual garden rooms in the backyard, and the pergola’s position is helping with that, since there will be rooms on each side. That is the next garden project on the docket!

Book feature Another wonderful event that happened because of the pandemic shutdown was their garden being featured in My Real Garden, a book by Ann-Marie Powell. Shane and Jac were on Instagram and started following a United Kingdom gardener that would go live every day in her garden. Others were encouraged to join in and they became friends. When she subsequently wrote this book about 200 gardens that she had discovered on her Instagram account, they were honored to be included. You can find her on Instagram at

The house resides on a corner lot and the edges of the yard were overgrown with honeysuckle and other weedy shrubs. While clearing all the junk shrubs, trees, and weeds, Shane and Jac uncovered some very old, picturesque yew trees that they didn’t even know were there. Their plan is to make a lovely woodland border by adding plants that will tolerate dry shade; ideally using native plants where possible. They have also started a stumpery with some of the leftover tree stumps from the cleanup. This property is progressing wonderfully, framing the Detroit Dutch colonial, with many gardens yet to be created. It warms the heart to know that Shane and Jac saved this home, with its historic flavor and treasured greenhouse. 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).

This classic Lord and Burnham greenhouse connects house and garage.

A triangle planting at the end of the walk includes an armillary as the focal point.

MichiganGardener.com | June 2022 | Michigan Gardener

Send Us Your Photos!

through the lens

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

Photographs from Michigan gardeners

Lisa Deluca captured her border garden mixed with annuals, perennials, and flowering shrubs.

Morning dew on an iris made for a beautiful photo by Bobbi Wolf.

Kim Pearson photographed her dramatic waterfall and pond.

“My mother, Maudine Matthews, has nearly one acre of beautiful land where she has created a rock garden and water features. She is now 86 years old and is pictured here with her hydrangeas which are her pride and joy.” —Demetria Green

A collection of stores and gardens to shop and visit. Please call ahead for hours, as they may vary from season to season.

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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.lodifwarms.com H The Produce Station Turner’s Greenhse & Garden Ctr Wild Birds Unltd armada Pond Guy auburn H Warmbier Farms 5300 Garfield Rd, MI 48611 989-662-7002 www.warmbierfarms.com auburn hills 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 blissfield Ogden Station Daylilies

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 H Van’s Valley Greenhouse 74865 Van Dyke Rd, MI 48065 586-752-6002 www.vansvalley.com burton H Country Oaks Landscp Supp

La Salle

almont

Ray

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

Fowlerville

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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 britton H Mark Prielipp Greenhouse & Mohr 7722 Britton Hwy, MI 49229 517-451-0022 www.mpgreenhouse.com

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

MichiganGardener.com | June 2022 | Michigan Gardener

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.piechniks.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 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 Carlson’s Greenhse 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 ferndale Olive’s Bloombox flat rock Masserant’s Feed/Grain flint H Applewood flushing H Flushing Lawn & Garden Ctr 114 Terrace St, MI 48433 810-659-6241 www.unclelukes.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 Le Fleur Décor 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 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 River Street Flowerland 1300 River St, MI 49048 269-342-9207 www.riverstreetflowerland.com H Wedel’s Nursery, Florist & Gdn Ctr 5020 Texas Dr, MI 49009 269-345-1195 www.wedels.com lake orion Fogler’s Greenhse H Lake Orion Lawn Orn H Orion Stone Depot 4888 Joslyn Rd, MI 48359 248-391-2490 www.orionstone.com lansing Lansing Gardens lapeer The Iron Barn lasalle Fowler’s Gift Shop lennon Stone Case Inc. livonia Bushel Mart George’s Livonia Gardens

macomb Altermatt Farms 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 Wildtype Nurs milford Milford Gardens The Pond Place monroe H The Flower Market 8930 South Custer Rd, MI 48161 734-269-2660 www.flowermarketdundee.com new baltimore H Meldrum Bros Nurs new boston H Bush & Son Landscape Supplies 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 oakland twp H Piechnik’s Garden Ctr 1095 N. Rochester Rd, MI 48363 586-336-7200 www.piechniks.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 pinckney H Bock’s Big Acre 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 6275 Gotfredson, MI 48170 734-455-5560 www.rock-shoppe.com 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 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 H 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 H 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

williamston Christians Greenhse wixom Angelo’s Landscp Supp H Milarch Nurs Milford Tree Farm ypsilanti Coleman’s Farm Mkt H Margolis Nurs 9600 Cherry Hill Rd, MI 48198 734-482-0771 www.margoliscompanies.com Materials Unlimited Mich Greenscape Supp H Sell Farms & Greenhouses 7200 Willis Rd, MI 48197 734-484-3819 www.sellfarmsandgreenhouses.com Superior Farm & Gard

Gardens to Visit ann arbor Matthaei Botanical Gardens/Nichols Arboretum battle creek Leila Arboretum blissfield Ogden Station Daylilies AHS Display Garden bloomfield hills H Cranbrook Gardens 380 Lone Pine Rd, MI 48303 248-645-3147 housegardens.cranbrook.edu clinton twp Tomlinson Arboretum dearborn Arjay Miller Arboretum @ Ford World HQ Henry Ford Estate detroit Anna S Whitcomb Conservtry, 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 H Applewood Estate grand rapids Frederik Meijer Gardens grosse pointe shores Edsel & Eleanor Ford Hse lansing Cooley Gardens lapeer The Display Garden on Suncrest 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 | June 2022 | www.MichiganGardener.com

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Plant both nectar and host plants To successfully attract butterflies to your garden, it is best to have two categories of plants: nectar and host plants. Having both types of plants encourages butterflies to stay in your garden area, reproduce, and build populations instead of just passing through. Nectar plants are the flowering plants that provide a food source for adult butterflies. Additionally, they will add beauty and style to your butterfly garden with their colorful flowers. Starting with some natives, some of my favorite choices for Michigan include purple coneflower (Photo 2), bee balm, Joe Pye weed (Photo 3), and New England asters. These choices are some of the longstanding natives that provide significant nectar sources to butterflies and other pollinators. See Table 1 for more choices. Host plants, simply put, are the plants on which butterflies lay their eggs and their larvae feed. It is important to know that every species of butterfly has its own specific kind of host plant. By adding these plants to our garden, we have now given butterflies an important reason to come and visit. The female butterflies can travel a great distance to find the exact kind of plant they need to lay their eggs. If you have these plants in your garden, you will be surprised at how many butterflies you will see. One example is the monarch butterfly’s host plant: milkweed (Photo 4). In Michigan, we have a number of different species native to our region. A few examples are common, swamp, and butterfly weed milkweeds. These plants not only produce colorful blooms and look great in your garden, but they are also the food plant for a monarch’s magnificent-looking larva. A special bonus is that milkweed’s attractive blooms allow it to also serve as a nectar plant. The black swallowtail butterfly larva uses several different host plants commonly found in our gardens as herbs, such as parsley, dill and fennel. Although these plants do not produce colorful blooms, they can be planted as an attractive green backdrop or even in between other plants (and provide herbs for cooking). Other plants, such as false nettle, host three different butterflies—the red admiral, the comma, and the question mark. And pearly everlasting serves as both a host and a nectar plant for the American lady butterfly. These are just a few examples of host plants for common Michigan butterflies. See Table 2 for more choices.

2 Purple coneflower is a favored native nectar source by both butterflies and pollinators (here, a great-spangled fritillary). Its large, attractive purple flower heads make it a popular choice for butterfly gardens.

Nonnative nectar plants There are some nonnative nectar plants that can be beneficial choices. These annuals provide all-season color in addition to being nectar sources. Annual butterfly favorites include lantana and zinnias. They are an outstanding nectar source for your butterflies and also a visually stunning addition to your

3 The gorgeous pink blossoms of Joe Pye weed look stately in the garden. The massive flower heads are always filled with butterflies and native pollinators. The upright stature and large leaves of this plant provide outstanding sheltering for butterflies to spend the night in your garden.

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P H OTO G R A P H S BY J O H N B L A I R

garden. Other favorites that provide architectural contrast and extended bloom times are tall verbena (Photo 5), with its willowy tall stems, and Mexican sunflower, with stunning orange flowers.

Strategies for success Understand your plant’s growth needs It is very important to understand each plant’s sunlight and water requirements so you can choose a proper location that will allow the plant to perform well and grow to its full potential. Additionally, knowing the height and spacing will help you correctly locate the plant so it won’t crowd or hide its neighbors. This important information can be found on the seed packet, plant tag, or grower’s website.

Have nectar sources available for the entire season

4 This native butterfly weed milkweed is not only a host plant for monarch butterfly larvae, but also a bountiful nectar source for all pollinators. Here, a Baltimore checkerspot butterfly enjoys the nectar from the vibrant orange blossoms.

A successful butterfly garden will always have something blooming from early spring through frost. This way, your butterfly visitors will always be assured of a good meal whenever they visit. The bloom time information is also found on the seed packet or plant tag. For a simple example, if we chose wild blue phlox with its April to June bloom time, purple coneflower for July to September, and New England aster for September to October, we have our entire season covered for our butterflies. continued on next page

TABLE 1: Butterfly Nectar Plants Common name Joe Pye Weed Sweet Joe Pye Weed* Boneset* Purple Coneflower Bee Balm* Common Milkweed Swamp Milkweed Butterfly Weed Missouri Ironweed Meadow Blazing Star Rough Blazing Star Prairie Blazing Star New England Aster Tall Verbena Zinnia Lantana Mexican Sunflower Mistflower* Wild Blue Phlox* Cutleaf Coneflower*

Botanical name Eutrochium maculatum Eutrochium purpureum Eupatorium perfoliatum Echinacea purpurea Monarda fistulosa Asclepias syriaca Asclepias incarnata Asclepias tuberosa Vernonia missurica Liatris ligulistylis Liatris aspera Liatris pycnostachya Aster novae-angliae Verbena bonariensis Zinnia elegans Lantana camara Tithonia rotundifolia Conoclinium coelestinum Phlox divaricata Rudbeckia laciniata

*Plants that have performed well in part shade

Native Plant? Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes No No No No Yes Yes Yes

Perennial or Annual Perennial Perennial Perennial Perennial Perennial Perennial Perennial Perennial Perennial Perennial Perennial Perennial Perennial Annual (in MI) Annual Annual Annual Perennial Perennial Perennial

5 A giant swallowtail sailing over a grouping of tall verbena. This plant blooms from midsummer all the way until frost and is a butterfly favorite.

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TABLE 2: Butterfly Host Plants This is not meant to be a complete list of all possible host plants, but some examples for some common Michigan butterflies. Host plant Fennel; Dill; Parsley False Nettle Common, Swamp, Butterfly Weed Milkweed Pearly Everlasting Northern Spicebush; Sassafras Prickly Ash; Rue Willow (various species) Wild Cherry Hollyhock; Thistle Violet (various species) White Sweet Clover Asters (various species) Snapdragons; Plantains

Butterflies that use this plant Black Swallowtail Red Admiral, Comma, Question Mark Monarch American Lady Spicebush Swallowtail Giant Swallowtail Eastern Tiger Swallowtail, Red-spotted Purple, Mourning Cloak, Viceroy Eastern Tiger Swallowtail, Red-spotted Purple Painted Lady Great-spangled Fritillary Eastern Tailed Blue, Orange Sulfur Pearl Crescent Common Buckeye

Hummingbird Nectar Plants Our ruby-throated hummingbirds really like to feed on these flowers: Plant name Lantana (Lantana camara) Cigar Plant (Cuphea ignea) Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis) Black & Blue Salvia (Salvia guaranitica)

The meadow blazing star is known to be a magnet for monarch butterflies. With no more room to land on this plant, at least a dozen more monarchs were circling in a holding pattern waiting for their turn to nectar!

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Plant the same species in groups When selecting the location for your plants, it is helpful to plant the same species in groups. This is important not only for nectar plants but also for host plants. The adult butterflies have ultraviolet vision that helps them see the specific kind of nectar plants they need. Putting these plants in groups of three or more helps the butterfly target where the flowers are within the garden. For the host plants, I plant a minimum of six of the same kind together. Since the larvae will feed on these plants, it is important that there be a large enough supply of food to meet their needs until they form their chrysalises.

Do not use pesticides If you are trying to create a wonderful habitat for butterflies, please do not use pesticides in your yard. They are toxic to all the life stages of the butterflies you are trying to attract. If you use native plants, another benefit is that many species have developed their own defenses against pests and disease, mitigating the need for pesticides.

Have a source of water available Since butterflies require water for both drinking and temperature regulation, this is another important feature you can add to your butterfly garden. Ponds and fountains are a good way to accomplish this and the

Your garden will not only serve butterflies and pollinators, but also hummingbirds. Lantana, cigar plant (Cuphea), cardinal flower, cup plant (pictured here), and ‘Black and Blue’ salvia are some of their favorites.

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As for my butterfly garden that you saw being constructed in part one of this two-part series (in the May 2022 issue), here it is in the last week of July in its first year. I was truly amazed at the abundant butterfly, pollinator and hummingbird visitors that flocked here on a daily basis. sound of running water will add peace and serenity to your garden.

Include a mineral source The butterfly’s nectar food source does not include minerals, so they need to get them through a process called “puddling” whereby they find moist earth and use their proboscis mouth part to draw in minerals from the soil. This can be easily provided by using a small saucer with drainage holes, filled with sand and few rocks for the butterflies to perch on. Place this in a sunny spot in the garden, keeping it moist as necessary, and the butterflies can now get their minerals.

Provide shelter Butterflies have delicate wings that can easily be damaged by predators, wind and rain. Having a medium-sized shrub or taller plants in your garden will give them a good sheltering place. I often find butterflies sheltering inside my tall Joe Pye weed plants.

Enjoy the show Using these guidelines for making a butterfly garden has worked very well for me in creating a successful habitat for butterflies, hummingbirds and other pollinators. In my very first butterfly garden, I had 38 different butterfly species visit. To be successful, you don’t have

to do every single one of the things presented here, but the more you can do to fulfill the butterflies’ life needs, the more fruitful your garden will be. Remember, no effort is too small to have a positive impact and the work you do will be rewarded by the joy your spirit will feel by having provided such a lovely habitat for these creatures. If you build it, they will come! Editor’s note: Part 1 of this two-part series appeared in the May 2022 issue of Michigan Gardener. To read that article, go to MichiganGardener.com and click on Digital Edition, where you can find the May 2022 Michigan Gardener as well as other past issues.

John Blair has been making butterfly gardens and presenting talks in Southeast Michigan on how to make them since 2013. John supports the good work that the Monarch Watch organization has been doing towards conservation of the monarch butterfly, whose numbers have fallen precipitously in the last two decades. To find out how you too can help the monarch, please visit Monarch Watch at www. monarchwatch.org.

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How to make a butterfly garden

1 Using the plants that butterflies need will bring these magical insects to the habitat you create for them. It seems that every time I look, I see them gliding around my gardens!

Part 2 of 2

n the May 2022 issue of Michigan Gardener, part one of this two-part series discussed planning and prepping your site to make a butterfly garden. Now, this part two article will focus on the specific requirements and plants that butterflies need to thrive (Photo 1).

Use native plants for the backbone A plant is considered native if it has occurred naturally in a habitat without being introduced there by humans. So, generally speaking, the plants that were growing here in Michigan before European settlement. Since natives are the plants that evolved together with our native butterflies, birds

and wildlife, they are the ones best suited to meet their needs. Our butterflies need these native plants to complete their life cycles, so they are a vitally important part of creating a successful butterfly garden. Nonnative plants introduced from overseas generally do not meet native butterfly needs. However, we will talk about a few exceptions that do

John Blair

work well, and will add beauty to your garden. An additional benefit of native plants is that they require less water and fertilizer to thrive here because they are well adapted to our soil and climate. continued on page 52