The Gateway Gardener March 2014

Gateway Gardener

MARCH 2014

THE

®

Your Guide to Enjoyable Gardening and Easy-Care Landscapes

Illinois’ Green Scene

Our Illinois Appreciation Issue

Illinois’ State Plants Native Woodland Gardens Spring Lawn Startup FREE Courtesy of:

Gateway Gardener

From the Editor

THE

®

Your Guide to Enjoyable Gardening and Easy-Care Landscapes

March 2014

Volume 10, Number 2

Founded in 2005 by

Robert Weaver & Joyce Bruno

Publisher and Editor Robert Weaver Columnists

Barbara Perry Lawton Garden Book Author and Garden Writer Connie Alwood Master Gardener Ellen Barredo Certified Nursery Professional Diane Brueckman Rosarian Joyce Driemeyer Master Gardener Cindy Gilberg Landscape Design Mara Higdon Gateway Greening Glenn Kraemer Turf Horticulturist Steffie Littlefield Nursery Professional Printing: Breese Publishing, Breese, IL The Gateway Gardener® is published monthly by Double Dig Communications, Inc. to promote enjoyable, successful gardening and livable landscapes in the St. Louis greater metropolitan area. The magazine is distributed free to the public at designated garden centers, nurseries, garden gift shops, lawn equipment rental, repair and sales establishments, and other locations supporting sound gardening, lawn and landscaping practices.

Please send letters-to-the-editor, questions, event announcements, editorial suggestions and contributions, photos, advertising inquiries and materials, and any other correspondence to: The Gateway Gardener Magazine® PO Box 220853 St. Louis, MO 63122 Phone: (314) 968-3740

info@gatewaygardener.com www.gatewaygardener.com The Gateway Gardener® is printed on recycled newsprint using environmentally friendly soy-based ink, and is a member of the PurePower® renewable energy resources network.

W

hen my sister-in-law Joyce and I were formulating our ideas for a gardening magazine 10 years ago, we knew from the start we wanted to include gardeners and businesses “over the river”. That’s why we opted in favor of The Gateway Gardener over our working title, St. Louis Gardener. In the years since, it’s been a real pleasure for me to discover the variety of beautiful gardens, unique garden centers and “green” attractions there are to be found just a short drive along the river bluffs and beyond. Of course, I was a little later coming to that discovery than some.

Illinois garden centers and gardens have long been on the day-trip agenda of Missouri-side garden clubs and regional garden tours.

Correction

Careful reader Peter Bernhardt pointed out an error in our January/February 2014 article on Missouri Orchids. He said the orchid listed as Cypripedium calceolus has been reclassified and is now known as Cypripedium parviflorum, and is represented in Missouri by two of three know varieties; var. parviflorum and var. pubescens.

With impressive bona fides as a Professor of Biology at St. Louis University and research associate at both Missouri Botanical Garden and Royal Botanic Gardens and Domain in Sydney, Australia, we not only thank Dr. Bernhardt for the correction, but thank him for enjoying The Gateway Gardener magazine!

On the Cover...

Atop the river bluffs in Godfrey, Illinois, sits the historic and beautiful campus of Lewis and Clark Community College, the landscape of which has been designated a Missouri Botanical Garden Signature Garden. A key component is the Monticello Sculpture Garden. For more “green” attractions to explore in Illinois, see page 12. (Photo by S. Paige Allen, Lewis and Clark Community College photographer.)

IN THIS ISSUE

Still, for some west-side gardeners, the Mississippi River forms a barrier, just as, for many of my urban-dwelling friends, Interstate 270 represents an artificial western border across which they seldom and only very reluctantly tread. To those of you to which this may apply, I hope our Illinois Appreciation Issue will encourage you to gas up the tank and explore many of the businesses and attractions you’ll find featured in this issue. If you’re looking for a place to start, you can’t go wrong in the Godfrey/Alton area, a hotbed of places to explore cultivated gardens as well as native habitats.

But don’t stop there; you’ll find plenty to please and ponder up and down the Great River Road and inland.

Of course, we don’t want to limit this exploration to Missourians. Our Illinois readers—and about ¼ of our distribution is on the east side—may find something new to them as well. Plus, especially for them, we’ve also included a feature on the many opportunities available to further their horticultural education or tickle their naturalist bones. Many of these are also available to we folks from Missourah!

No matter the side from which you hail, it’s finally spring for all of us! After the winter we’ve had, I’m sure everyone is ready to get growing again. Happy Spring, everyone!

Good Gardening!

7 Top 10 Natives for Shade 8 Artemisias 10 Spring Seeding Cool Season Lawns 12 Illinois’ “Green” Attractions 14 Illinois’ “Green” Education Ops 16 Illinois Garden & Landscape Business Profiles 18 Maranta, Calathea and Stromanthe 19 Totally Tomatoes

4 Illinois’ State Plants

20 Springtime in the Rose Garden

6 Native Woodland Gardens

22 Upcoming Events

A

Illinois’ State Plants

by Barbara Perry Lawton

n elegant tree, a beautiful flower and a prominent prairie grass, all natives, are outstanding symbols of the State of Illinois.

Often known as the Prairie State, Illinois is the 25th largest and fifth most populous state of our country. Its name comes from Illini, a word given to the area by a confederation of Indian tribes.

Violet

The violet was proclaimed the Illinois state flower in 1908 after a vote by school children the previous year. The purple flowers have a long season, appearing in Illinois almost all spring and summer. The purple flower petals are edible, making a pretty garnish for salads.

Traditionally the petals are covered with sugar and used as cake decorations. Since there are a number of violet species in the state, it is not known which of these the children had in mind. The common or dooryard violet (Viola sororia) quite probably is the intended violet since it is the most common. Like most of the world’s violets, it prefers moist shady areas.

Reproductively, violets are unusual in that they produce two different types of flowers. In the spring and summer, they produce the large purple flowers we know so well. Once these have finished blooming, the plant produces small closed flowers on short stems close to the ground. It is these secondary flowers, looking more like buds, that produce most of the violet’s seeds.

An interesting partnership exists between violet plants and certain butterflies. Violets are the only food of the handsome fritillary butterflies’ larvae. While most butterflies lay their eggs on the host plants, thus guaranteeing that the offspring will thrive, fritillary

females are more haphazard. Regal fritillaries lay their eggs over a wider territory in the grasslands rather than on or near the violet plants that the larvae need. Eggs are laid in late summer and newly hatched larvae overwinter in sheltered spots. They begin feeding on the violets in the spring, then pupate. Adults emerge in early summer and are commonly seen through early fall.

Big Bluestem

Big bluestem (Andropogan gerardii), a warm season perennial bunch grass, was adopted as an Illinois state symbol in 1989, following an election by students throughout the state. It is often called turkeyfoot because of the threefingered form of the seed heads that appear in late summer. Since this is a large-scale plant, it is useful in horticultural situations only in large sunny gardens where it might be used as a background border The leaves are alternate, about 1.5 inches long by a half-inch wide. This grass is wind pollinated and has deep roots. The plants form large clumps that expand rather slowly by means of short rhizomes. It usually grows three to eight feet in height, though it has been known to reach an awesome height of 21 feet.

Because big bluestem produces better quality and larger amounts of forage than other prairie grasses, it is known as King of the Prairie.

Although big bluestem tolerates a wide range of soils and is drought tolerant, its preference is fertile loam or clay loam, slightly dry to moist soil and full sun. Before agriculture plowed under most of the prairies that originally covered most of Illinois, big bluestem was one of the dominant grasses. It is an excellent forage crop. Big

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MARCH 2014

bluegrass will yield two to four tons of hay per acre.

The larvae of several species of skipper butterflies feed on big bluegrass foliage. The seeds may be eaten by a number of sparrows and it is an important food plant for grasshoppers and leafhoppers.

White Oak

The white oak (Quercus alba) became the state tree of Illinois is 1973. Prior to that, beginning in 1908, Illinois’s state trees were the 20 species of native oaks. A large and elegant tree, the white oak can grow over 100 feet in height with a diameter of more than four feet. The alternate leaves, up to nine inches long, are multi-lobed with smooth edges. It is no wonder that the beautiful white oaks are favorite trees of many parks, homeowners and naturalists.

Deep taproots make white oaks difficult to transplant once they are over a few feet tall. The deep roots make this tree well adapted to droughty conditions. Moist, well-draining, deep soils that are slightly acid provide ideal conditions for white oaks. The wood of white oaks is close-grained, hard and handsome, making it a favorite for construction and, especially, cabinetry.

The acorns, which the tree will begin to produce at about 20 years, are about an inch long. Production varies from year to year and when they fall to the ground in the fall, they are an important food for many animals and birds. White oaks are hosts to many insects, most of which they tolerate very well and which are an important food source for birds as well.

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Barbara Perry Lawton is a writer, author, speaker and photographer. She has served as manager of publications for Missouri Botanical Garden and as weekly garden columnist for the PostDispatch. The author of a number of gardening and natural history books, and contributor to many periodicals, she has earned regional and national honors for her writing and photography. Barbara is also a Master Gardener and volunteers at MBG.

Missouri Grown is Hardy Natives are our Specialty!

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• Raingardens and bioswales • Bird and Butterfly gardens • Wildlife and conservation landscapes

MARCH 2014

The Gateway Gardener®

88 Keeling Lane Elsberry, MO 63343 800-FKN-2401 www.fknursery.com

5

Naturally Natives Woodland Gardens

By Cindy Gilberg

E

very year the warm, moist air of spring stirs me to visit wooded natural areas to see and smell the annual awakening of our richly diverse woodlands. Here and there flower buds of understory trees are opening—wild plum, serviceberry, dogwood and redbud, each blooming in turn according to the temperatures and the date. The woodland floor awakens with the unfurling fiddleheads of primitivelooking ferns that so beautifully complement other emerging and blooming spring wildflowers such as wild geranium, Jacob’s ladder and ephemeral bluebells.

Migrating hummingbirds know when wild columbine blooms, coordinating their arrival with the appearance of bright red, nectar-

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April 5, 12, 19, & 26 May 3 Saturdays 8am - 5pm Pick up orders at Kirkwood Market

WIld geranium and groundsel liven up the woodland gardens at Shaw Nature Reserve. rich columbine flowers in midspring. Many gardeners curse the shade, saying they can’t grow anything in the shade—to the contrary; there are many beautiful native plants to grow in a woodland garden. My favorite place on a hot St. Louis summer afternoon is in my native shade garden.

will thrive—it is less expensive to adjust the plant list than to rework the site. A very important step is to create a meandering path that leads through your shady oasis to a quiet sitting spot with a bench. Here is a place to escape to, to share with a child or simply to be, observing all the lush life around you.

Where to start? Begin by deciding which trees will remain to provide necessary shade and to balance the design. Draw the space on graph paper, to scale, indicating trees and shrubs that will stay to become a part of the final garden.

Identify and plan to remove all invasive plant species such as bush honeysuckle, wintercreeper, etc. Do an assessment of light (heavy shade vs. light shade) and soil (moist vs. dry or organic vs. rocky) to determine a plant list that

There may still be room for planting more spring-blooming, small, understory trees. Strategically locate them along both sides of the path to create visual rhythm.

These trees are important additions for habitat since most bear fruit that is much sought after by birds.

Beneath and among these trees, decide where masses of shrubs can be added—this list includes plants such as wild hydrangea, coral berry, spice bush and, in lighter shade, American beautyberry and native viburnum can be planted.

Order in advance (by Wed.), or choose from the selection at the Kirkwood Market.

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Custom DESIGNS for each unique site

INSTALLATIONS of beautiful plants and walls, paths, and patios Meticulous MAINTENANCE of every property entrusted to our care

Prepare a plant wish list that includes plants that bloom or provide seasonal interest in different seasons, that have different growth habits and foliar textures. Textural contrast is a key design element, so choose plant species to create interesting combinations of fine and coarse textures that play off each other.

Along the path choose from lowgrowing ground cover perennials that have larger, rounded leaves such wild ginger, alum root, and

round-leaf groundsel. Groundsel provides a wonderful, low-growing evergreen cover among paths and stepping stones. Contrast these with more fine-textured plants such as cedar or oak sedge. Ferns add a primeval, lush quality to the garden and a delicate texture that is unrivaled—try Christmas fern, ostrich fern, or lady fern. Sprinkle in groupings of taller perennials, for instance, some clump-forming Indian pink. This unusual plant has red flower buds that open to reveal a yellow star-shaped flower. Wild geranium is a great addition that blooms pink in late spring and is deer-resistant. Columbines are short-lived, but are a favorite for hummingbirds and gardeners alike, so be sure to save and spread seed around to ensure a good supply of plants.

Mid- to late summer is a time that lacks color in many gardens, so pay close attention to those plants that bloom at these times. Tall phlox stands about 3-4 feet tall with soft to rich pink flowers that have a mild fragrance. Another great mid-summer bloomer is black cohosh, whose tall, white spikes of flowers appear in July like many exclamation marks above the other plants. For interesting large leaves, a shrub-like appearance and multiple clusters of berries (for the birds!), try spikenard.

Masses of ferns planted against this one or large-textured shrubs like wild hydrangea, provide a pleasant visual contrast. Highlight the scene with other late-blooming perennials—try the light-blue flowering skullcap, purple aster and the short (2 foot tall) broadleaf goldenrod.

Look for natural elements to include in the garden, such as mossy stones and/or a fallen mossy log interplanted with ferns. A small water feature such as a bubbler stone or small pool adds habitat benefit and attracts birds and small

The Gateway Gardener®

MARCH 2014

mammals. Put all this together to paint a soothing picture where you can be, away from the hectic world, and take in the natural surroundings. At the end of a warm

summer day, I highly recommend retreating to your bench in your shady oasis to unwind and reflect on a job well done.

PRESENTED BY:

Tips and Resources for Growing and Landscaping with Sustainable Native Plants

25th ANNIVERSARY

A Grow Native! Top 10 List FEATURED CATEGORY: Outstanding Natives for the Shade Garden

Attractive • Durable • Non-seedy • Long Lived • Attract Pollinators NATIVE PLANT NAME ginger 1 Wild (Asarum canadensis) sedge 2 Oak (Carex albicans) grass 3 Beak (Diarrhena americana) 4 Beautyberry (Callicarpa americana) alum root 5 Little-flower (Heuchera parviflora) groundsel 6 Round-leaf (Senecio obovatus) fern 7 Maidenhair (Adiantum pedatum) hydrangea 8 Wild (Hydrangea arborescens) goldenrod 9 Broad–leaf (Solidago flexicaulis) 10 Indian pink (Spigelia marilandica)

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Cindy Gilberg is a horticulturist and Missouri native who writes, teaches and does consulting and design work in the St. Louis area. Her work focuses on both native plant landscapes as well as other styles of landscape design. Contact cindy. gilberg@gmail.com www.cindygilberg. com

BUY LOCAL ENGAGE & LEARN

This column is written in collaboration with Shaw Nature Reserve (Missouri Botanical Garden) in partnership with the Missouri Department of Conservation. Visit the Whitmire Wildflower Garden (at Shaw Nature Reserve), a 5-acre display garden, for ideas on native plant landscaping. Native plant conservation and the promotion of native plants in our landscapes is vital to restoring the rich biodiversity of our region.

MARCH 2014

The Gateway Gardener®

7

Artemisias: 2014 Herb of the Year

By Joyce Dreimeyer

I

n a genus of around 300 species in the Asteraceae family, Artemisias have a long history of use. Unlike many members of the Aster family, they do not have showy daisy-like blooms, but are mostly noted and used for their foliage. Artemisias continue to have vermifuge and insect repellant uses.

Other Artemisias, however, can be good general border plantings that make good backdrops or accent plantings, because of their silvery white or gray-colored foliage and can possess fine feathery leaves or broad irregular leaves. Most

French tarragon A. dracunculus ‘Sativa’

Walters Gardens, Inc.

Most of the varieties we include in gardens range between 1 to 4 feet in height with a spread of 3 feet for individual plants. Because so many of these varieties are rhizomatous, some can be very invasive. The only one I can fully recommend for inclusion in an herb garden is Artemisia dracunculus v. sativa— French tarragon. This plant does not bloom, and therefore does not seed, and can be propagated by stem cuttings or root division only. Socalled Russian tarragon does produce seed but is not a good alternative for cooking.

is bushy, with finely divided, very fragrant handsome bright green foliage. The stems and foliage dry well and are often made into wreaths. One caveat—some people are allergic to the leaves and pollen. A. annua has demonstrated great effectiveness against treatment for malaria in China, S.E. Asia and now Africa.

are very heat and drought tolerant, and in fact, will not thrive in poor drainage or soggy sites.

They also require mostly full sun, never deep shade.

The scent of the foliage will vary by species, and is from the presence of cineole; some smell of camphor, while others have a spicy and pleasant aroma. Some have a strong, even unpleasant odor. As a result, many are repellant to animals such as rabbits and deer, and can be used as hedging to ward off such critters. At the same time, it is recommended they not be planted near vegetable gardens, since their presence will discourage pollinators.

TRANSFORMED

Creating Outdoor Spaces that Inspire Helping you envision the possibilities of outdoor living spaces to share with family and friends.

It’s what we’ve done since 1953.

One annual that comes easily from seed is Artemisia annua (Sweet Annie).

The plant

A. abrotanum (Southernwood) has graying sage-green leaves that are finely divided and grow on strong stems. It is best kept pruned into small hedges; otherwise it becomes rangy.

It can be placed in closets to ward off moths.

Ingestion by humans is not recommended.

A. absinthium (wormwood) can become weedy and scraggly—over 3-ft. tall—and floppy. It is best to cut back flowering stems to promoted basal growth. ‘Lambrook Silver’ has silver foliage and is a good cultivar. Its best use is for dried wreaths or for antifungal topical preparation to skin. Absinthe liqueurs were at one time banned because of hallucinogenic properties caused by thujone. Van Gogh was addicted to this as well as other drugs.

Artemisia vulgaris ‘Variegata’ has white flecked and edged foliage. It is very attractive and great for floral arrangements and dried wreaths, but rhizomatous and therefore invasive. It can get over 4-ft. tall!

Artemisia x ‘Powis Castle’ is a no-blooming, lower growing, silver-colored feather-leaved probable hybrid of A. absinthium and A. arborescens that makes a great accent. For some time I had it planted around my mailbox where its silver color showed up against the dark green of the mailbox.

All artemisias are tolerant of almost neutral, not overly rich soils.

Looking for Something Unique for your Garden??

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After 30 years as a landscape designer, Joyce is now retired. She has been a MBG volunteer since 1969 and a Master Gardener since 1985.

She is also a past board member of the Herb Society of America, and is a current board member of the St. Louis Herb Society.

The Gateway Gardener®

MARCH 2014

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2014 FREE Gardening Seminar Series

You are cordially invited to attend our FREE gardening seminars, starting Thursday Feb. 20th running through March 27th, 2014.

Attend and receive professional advice on how to be successful with your gardening and landscape endeavors.

Seminars Each Thursdays at 2 PM and 7 PM February 20th

Gary & Gail Abbott

Perennials: Colors, Textures and Containers Barry Ritter, Ritter Perennials

February 27th What’s the Buzzzzzzzz? Beekeeping & Knowledge of Bees Jane Sueme & Scott Klein, Isabees

March 6th Succulents and Cactus: Removing the “Thorns” of Growing Them Pam Schnebelen, St. Louis Cactus Society

March 13th Veggie 101: Natural and Organic Ways of Growing Andy Chidester, Ladybug Natural Brand

Design/Installation Also Available

March 20th

Herbs: Those Glorious Flavors and Scents

“Mike” Ochonicky, St. Louis Community Colleges-Meramec March 27th

Growing Under Trees and Other Tough Spaces Nancee Kruescheck, Continuing Education, SLCC-Meramec

314-741-3121

618-585-3414

These are great programs by professional industry experts, come as often as you like—and don’t forget to

BRING YOUR QUESTIONS WITH YOU!

MARCH 2014

The Gateway Gardener®

9

Spring Seeding Cool Season Lawns

By Glennon Kraemer

M

arch and early April are prime times to seed your cool season lawns. Especially, if you have any shade. After May 1, your success rate really drops off. Here are my Step-By-Step instructions for spring seeding jobs:

1. Wait until you can rake or blow winter leaves and have mowed at 2” to remove any unwanted materials in the lawn.

2. You probably won’t have your irrigation running yet, so be careful when you aerate or power rake the thin areas. You don’t want to damage the irrigation system!

3. Spread your seed (usually 5-10 lbs./1000 ft. sq.) and some “starter” fertilizer like 10-20-10. Don’t worry about crabgrass control (shade areas won’t grow crabgrass anyway) for now.

4. Rake back and forth to ensure good seed to soil contact. Seeds need water and soil temperature to germinate, not sunlight. The

5.

6.

7.

8.

best seed job is one that you can’t see the seed when you are through.

Top dress areas with more topsoil (1/2”), compost or PennMulch ®. This will help maintain moisture and prevent erosion.

Water lightly every day (unless it rains) for 2-3 weeks. Mother Nature usually takes care of the heavy lifting in the spring… sometimes too well!

Mow after 2-3 weeks, but do so at 3” to 3 ½” so the roots get to go deep. Deep roots will help with drought resistance.

Don’t spray any herbicides until this seed is up and has been mowed twice!

I really encourage spring seeding for shade lawns because we don’t have to deal with the leaves dropping like you do in the fall. Also, you don’t ever have to worry about crabgrass growing in the shade because it won’t grow there. You can use “Tupersan®” where you have seen crabgrass in the past, but it is expensive. I prefer to tell my clients to use Dimension ® pre-emergent after the seeded areas have been mowed twice. You still might get some crabgrass, but nothing that can’t be sprayed out with some inexpensive “post emergent” crabgrass sprays.

Dimension ®, in the granule form, will kill small germinated crabgrass plants. Tupersan ® will only keep crabgrass under control if it is applied before the crabgrass germinates. It also requires reapplication in 25 days—expensive and time consuming!

Don’t wait on this project. It’s better to get this done as early as you can. September will be the next and best time (especially in full sun areas) to repeat this process. If you apply crabgrass controls, be sure to rinse out the spreader before using it to spread seed. Grass seed can be killed even by the “dust” of the crabgrass controls.

Try not to apply or do anything to zoysia lawns during March…it’s too early. Remember folks…”it’s just grass”.

Glenn Kraemer owns and operates GR Robinson Seed and Service, and can be reached by phone at (314) 432-0300 or by email at gmmseed@ sbcglobal.net.

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MARCH 2014

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Bayer Garden Center 3401 Hampton St Louis, MO 63139 Bayer Garden Center 5926 Old State Rd. Imperial, MO 63052 Haegele Nursery 6043 Lemay Ferry Rd. St Louis, MO 63129

Sappington Garden Shop 11530 Gravois St Louis, MO 63126 O K Hatchery Feed & Garden Center 115 East Argonne Kirkwood, MO 63122

Rolling Ridge Nursery 60 North Gore Ave. Webster Groves, MO 63119 Passiglia Nursery 1855 Highway 109 Wildwood, MO 63038 Plants R Us 2701 Hwy DD Cuba, MO 65453

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Ask your local Dyna Green Independent Garden Center which Saturday the Turf Expert will be there!

MARCH 2014

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11

Illinois’ “Green” Attractions Daytrip Illinois’ Horticultural and Natural Beauty

When many of us (especially urban and suburban dwellers on the “left side” of The River) think of Illinois’ green scene, we typically picture corn and soybean fields.

But, perhaps because of the same geological and geographical blessings that have enriched Illinois’ agricultural bounty, the state also provides rich attractions for those who appreciate horticultural and natural beauty as well. Here are a few within The Gateway Gardener’s market region on the “right” side of Ol’ Man River.

The Gardens at SIUE is a 35-acre public garden nestled on the campus of Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. Recognized by the Missouri Botanical Garden as a Signature Garden, The Gardens currently includes natural areas, formal gardens, and sculpture arranged in a landscaped setting.

The Gardens is a living laboratory dedicated to supporting the educational and research mission of the University, and to providing a place of beauty and enjoyment for

the year. The gardens and restored areas are maintained by U. of I. Extension Master Gardeners and other volunteers. Visiting the farm is free, but volunteers and farm coordinators aren’t always available to answer questions, give tours, or provide programs. If you or your group is interested in experiencing all that the farm has to offer through tours, talks, and crafts, please contact the farm at least seven business days before your visit at 618-660-8668. Visit www.collinsvillerec.om/farm for directions and details.

Children explore one of several sculptures on the grounds of the Gardens at SIUE.

all. Environmental sustainability, conservation and stewardship are cornerstones of The Gardens’ vision, providing a unique opportunity to research, implement and demonstrate innovative green technologies. A relatively young garden, founded in 2006, there is always something new to see at The Gardens. To learn more visit www.siue.edu/gardens.

Near Belleville, the Henry White Experimental Farm is run by the Illinois Department of Agriculture and serves as an outdoor laboratory for research into sustainable agriculture, but has much to offer for the home gardener and nature lover in terms of promoting natural resource protection. In addition to its research plots, the farm’s 94 acres contain wetlands, evergreen

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and deciduous groves, restored prairie and wildlife habitat. Guided educational tours are available for school groups, garden clubs and other organizations, or contact 618-476-7230 to schedule a visit. For more information visit www.agr.state.il.us/environment/ landwater/henrywhite.html.

The Nan Elliot Memorial Rose Garden, at the Gordon Moore Community Park in Alton, is a “rose among thorns” sitting beautifully as it is among the brown playing fields of the park.

The Garden features over 150 varieties and 1600+ rose bushes in a one-acre site. It is an accredited All American Rose Selections show garden, receiving the AARS outstanding maintenance award 26 of 28 years. For more information visit http://alton-il. com/rosegarden.cfm.

Willoughby Heritage Farm, part of the Collinsville Area Recreation District (CARD), is a place where the history comes to life through historic structures, original tools, replica gardens and a restored environment. Along with the barns, farm tools and live animals, farm staff and volunteers have created over three miles of hiking trails in the woodland and prairie. Gardening classes are also conducted at the farm throughout

The Great River Road, an officially designated National Scenic Byway and recognized as one of National Geographic’s “500 Drives of a Lifetime,” is to be appreciated not so much for cultivated gardens but for the grand design of nature, not to mention a few glimpses of man’s history in the region, in some cases dating back to prehistory. The southern stretch within our market area has some of all that! The French Colonial villages and forts of Prairie du Rocher are relative newcomers compared to the ancient remains at Cahokia Mounds, the only prehistoric Native American city north of Mexico and a World Heritage Site. Both are fascinating and beautiful in their own ways, but for real natural beauty, the portion of the Road between Hartford and Pere Marquette State Park, also designated the Meeting of the Great Rivers National Scenic Byway, is without equal. Majestic bluffs frame the confluence region of the Mississippi, Illinois and Missouri Rivers, and provide aweinspiring panoramas any time of year.

Along the road, several sites offer not only insightful historic perspectives, but many are beautifully landscaped with native plants and other horticultural attractions. Native plantings at Confluence Tower in Hartford are identified with interpretive signs describing the medicinal and other

The Gateway Gardener®

MARCH 2014

uses to which the plants were put to use by the Lewis and Clark party.

A beautiful overlook at The National Great Rivers Research & Education Center in East Alton uses exclusively native plantings, and landscaping is meant to roughly mimic different several vegetative zones you find in the river and floodplain ecosystem including, wetland, riparian “forest”, wet prairie and hill prairie. Their vegetative roof is fairly unique, featuring 18 inches of growing media that allows them to grow native grasses and forbs.

Interpretive signs, and a nice video and self-guided virtual tour in the Center’s lobby, which is open 8:30 to 4:00 M-F. The roof is accessible and there is a scenic overlook for visitors to view the river. Tours of the non-public portions of the facility are available Fridays at 11:30 am, and for educational groups, tours can be arranged at other times. Good times to visit are late spring, and early summer when our wildflowers are in bloom or late fall when the plants are going dormant. Visit http://www.

ngrrec.org/ for more information.

The Monticello Sculpture Gardens are located on the campus of Lewis and Clark Community College in Godfrey.

Here, the traditional edges between art and landscape blend to create a seamless partnership between sculptor and landscape architect.

Stretch your legs and your mind — take an entertaining guided walking tour of the stunning L&C campus in Godfrey. Learn about the history of Lewis and Clark and the former Monticello Women’s Seminary. Explore the lily pond, fountains, and gardens designed to inspire students and be environmentally friendly. Listen to the stories behind the monumental sculptures set within the beautifully 215-acre landscaped Godfrey campus that has also been designated a Missouri Botanical Garden’s Signature Garden. In all cases, the gardens feature seasonal interest and fragrance, complexity of foliage texture and color, horticultural excellence, and satisfaction of all the senses.

The Nature Institute (TNI) is

Finally, at the northern terminus of the Byway, Pere Marquette State Park is a great stop for an afternoon or a weekend at the featured Pere Marquette Lodge. The Park features 12 miles of marked trails through woods and along the river bluffs, where visitors can find historical and archeological treasures and natural wonders all year round, but especially in the fall.

For more information on attractions, accommodations, maps and driving directions to places along the Great River Road in Illinois visit www.greatriverroad-illinois.org or call (877) 477-7007.

The Great River Road bursts into color each fall.

Made in the St. Louis Area

OUTDOORS

feature several hiking trails that the public can use. Maps are provided at www.TheNatureInstitute.org.

A wonderful attraction for those interested in bluff top views, native flowers, and recreation.

Alton Convention & VisitorsBureau

Natioinal Great Rivers Research & Education Ctr.

The green roof of the Field Station at the National Great Rivers Research & Education Center provides beautiful views near and far.

a non-profit land conservation and environmental education organization based in Godfrey.

Since its founding in 1980, The Nature Institute’s board and staff have worked to foster an awareness and appreciation of the natural world through preservation, restoration, and education. Each summer TNI hosts a premier camp for children pre-K - 6th grade, and welcomes more that 8,000 area students on field trips throughout the year. TNI also owns and manages over 450 acres of protected land, such as the Olin Nature Preserve, the Mississippi Sanctuary, the Kemp and Cora Hutchinson Bird Sanctuary, and the Heartland Prairie Project at Gordon Moore Park, and was once named a “Best Kept Secret” by the Riverfront Times. These natural areas provide unique places for the public to experience the diversity of the Riverbend area with its hardwood forests, prairies and wetlands. These areas

INDOORS

™

www.guttergardens.com (314) 255-1845 (618) 334-2504

MARCH 2014

The Gateway Gardener®

13

Illinois’ “Green” Education Ops Career or Enrichment Opportunities to “Hort Up!”

With Illinois’ rich agricultural history, it should be no wonder that educational opportunities are abundant for those urban-dwellers who want to learn a little more about growing things on their own little squares of earth. Whether you’re looking to start a career in horticulture with a 4-year degree, or just want to take a class or two for personal enrichment, school is in session in Illinois!

Southern Illinois University-Carbondale

SIU-C offers the East-Side area’s closest 4-year degree program in horticulture. Courses provide scientific and practical knowledge in plants, soil and landscape horticulture, annuals, perennials, garden center, nursery and greenhouse management, landscape construction and design, woody plant identification and maintenance. Most courses include classroom instruction and hands-on experience with a focus on sustainable landscape practices.

Students gain knowledge of natural soil, water and plant life systems and practical skills to address integrating the built and natural environments, using for example, rain gardens and permeable pavers. The Agriculture Building features a green roof and interior vertical garden, and a teaching greenhouse on campus is used extensively in classes, independent studies, and in student work experiences. The SIUC Horticulture Research Center includes farms and a greenhouse for teaching and research. The SIUC campus also is used as an outdoor teaching laboratory with many native and non-native plant species available to study.

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is available at the offices 9:00amnoon weekdays April-October, and on Wednesdays November-March.

Master Gardeners also organize area garden tours. The St. Clair Gardens in Bloom Tour is June 7th in O’Fallon. The Madison County Garden Tour is June 14th in Edwardsville/Glen Carbon. The Monroe County Garden Tour is June 14th in Maeystown.

Students at SIUC work on a water feature project on campus.

SIUC students take care of and conduct research on the green roof and numerous landscapes and hands-on projects. The green industry in today’s changing environment needs students with traditional plant, soil and horticulture knowledge and skills, as well as a creative and problem solving approach to respond to the demands of urban and rural landscapes.

Southwestern College

Illinois

A little closer to the St. Louis area, Belleville’s Southwestern Illinois College offers a two-year program in horticulture, providing opportunities for employment as a landscape designer, a golfcourse superintendent, grounds superintendent for a school, college, park, industrial complex or municipality, turf manager for construction contractor, country club or highway department, retail or wholesale greenhouse operator, a floral designer; a garden center manager; or a fruit/vegetable manager.

seminars, and meetings, and reaches out through online programs that are available any time.

Many informative programs for the public are provided throughout the year. Weekend Gardener on April 12th at the Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows offers workshops for the home gardener to learn more about herbs, roses, native plants, vegetable gardening, and much more. An Emerald Ash Borer workshop on April 28th will be held at our Branch office in Collinsville. The Four Seasons Gardening Series also covers a variety of topics including home orchards, daylilies, and rain gardens. The Four Seasons Gardening Series is in the spring, summer, and fall. Pre-registration for these programs are required.

University of Illinois Master Gardeners provide Extension Madison- research based information on Monroe-St. Clair Unit the Horticulture Helpline.

For those merely seeking enrichment, as opposed to career education, University of Illinois Extension delivers programs in local communities via workshops,

Master Gardeners also answer home horticulture questions through the Horticulture Helpline service. The Helpline

Training to become a Master Gardener is also offered through Extension.

Master Gardener volunteers work at a variety of beautification projects, food production projects, and youth gardening projects.

Volunteers gave over 10,000 volunteer hours and donated more than 14,000 pounds of produce to area food pantries in 2013. Training for new volunteers is conducted JanuaryApril annually.

Contact the Main office in Waterloo at 618-939-3434 or the Branch office in Collinsville at 618-344-4230 to learn more about our programing. University of Illinois Extension provides equal opportunities in programs and employment.

HeartLands Conservancy

HeartLands Conservancy is a nonprofit organization that “Invests in the Nature of Southwestern Illinois.” Their mission is to help sustain and enrich the diverse environmental resources of Southwestern Illinois, promoting healthy air, land, and water resources for current and future generations. The group partners with landowners and community leaders to permanently protect the lands such as farms, forests, wetlands, wildlife habitat, open spaces, and scenic vistas.

HeartLands Conservancy has helped conserve over 5,000 acres in Southwestern Illinois since 1989.

There are many ways to become engaged with HeartLands

The Gateway Gardener®

MARCH 2014

Groundbreaking at HeartLands Conservancy’s Arlington Interpretive Center.

Conservancy, including attending events, volunteering, and becoming a member. To learn more, you can attend their annual Field to Fork dinner on Saturday, July 26, 2014.

Local chefs prepare a five-course dinner, which is created from fresh ingredients locally grown and sourced from throughout Southwestern Illinois. Guests have the opportunity to meet some of the growers and farmers and to learn about the economic, health, and environmental benefits of supporting local agriculture. Visit www.HeartLandsConservancy. org or call 618-566-4451.

Trinity Gardens Farmstead

and

Trinity Gardens and Farmstead is home to a new and innovative agriculture program for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Participants access residential, learning and work opportunities that add value to their lives and their community. Sited on forty-two acres of prairie land, the facility is a working, learning and recreational space for the entire community. The site plan includes gardens, orchards, homes, a lake and recreation areas. The farm emphasizes native plants, natural drainage and the conservation of resources. It is one of Trinity’s Adult Learning programs, and it is a productive and Earth-friendly enterprise.

In addition to the farmstead, many other activities are available to people served in southwest Illinois.

Annual events like 5 K marathons,

MARCH 2014

Gardeners at Trinity Gardens and Farmstead show off some of their harvest.

festivals, disco dances, and Art Shows help raise funds to support the program. The next event will be an Art Show held on Sunday April 6, 2014 from the hours of 1pm to 5pm. The focus will be on Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama.

The event includes live music, wine and cheese, 500 pieces of art, paintings, pottery, and jewelry.

To learn more about Southwest services, upcoming events, or the developing farmstead, contact Director Mike Lowry at mlowry@ trinity-services.org.

Garden Clubs in Illinois

Finally, the area is home to many garden clubs and plant societies that offer great opportunities to mingle with like-minded gardening friends. Here are a few that are featured on our website. Note: If your garden club isn’t listed here,

call us or email us and we’ll add them to the Gateway Gardener website list of area clubs.

Belleville Rose Society, www. belleville-ars.org or contact Bob Hellmer at 618-939-5673.

Caseyville Gardeners, (618) 4104939

Edwardsville Garden Club, www.edwardsvillegardenclub. webs.com, or call at 618-288-3566

Get Growing

Columbia Garden Club, (618) 281-5841

Highland Garden Club, (618) 654-6740 or visit www.freewebs. com/highlandgardenclub O’Fallon Garden Club, www. ofallongardenclub.org Southwestern Illinois Hemerocallis Society, (618) 4653320

Mix n Match

th

• Buy 3 Trees, Get 1 FREE • Buy 3 Shrubs, Get 1 FREE Free item of equal or lesser value than any one of the purchased items

• FREE LANDSCAPE CONSULTATIONS

The Gateway Gardener®

with our

Spring Gardening Series!

March 1 • Square Foot Gardening March 9 • Shade Gardening with Hostas March 15 • All About Trees March 22 • Fairy Gardening March 29 • Growing/Cooking with Herbs

Spring Open House April 5th

Celebrate the beginning of the gardening season! Take advantage of one-day only specials, refreshments and more!

• WE DELIVER AND PLANT • HUGE SELECTION 2004 West Blvd. • Belleville, IL 62221

On Your Way to Missouri Wine Country.

3135 Hwy. 94 South Just West of Defiance

Trenton Tumbleweeds Garden Club (no contact info)

All Classes start at 10am. Fees apply for some classes. Call store or see website for details.

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The Garden Club of Lebanon (618) 537-4368, www. gardencluboflebanon.org

Three Rivers Rose Society, (618) 463-3580, ande3601@sbcglobal. net

Open March 1st 7 Days 8-5 th

St. Clair County Gardeners, (618) 213-6525

636.798.2565 BluffViewNursery.NET

(618) 235-2004

Visit website for current hours www.SandysBackPorch.com and “Like” us on

15

2013 Illinois Garden & Landscape Business Profiles

Not only does a good portion of our readership follow us from the Illinois side, but Illinois advertisers have helped support The Gateway Gardener while promoting their businesses and products since our debut in 2005. We would like to introduce you to some of our current Illinois business partners, and encourage you to visit their retail locations or check out their products on their websites.

16

Cottage Garden Nursery

Davidsan’s Japanese Maples

6967 Route 1111 Piasa (618) 729-4324 CottGardens.com See Ad Pg. 19

919 S. Farmingdale Rd. New Berlin • (217) 303-2641 DavidsansJapaneseMaples.com DavidsansGranite.com See Ad Pg. 18

Cottage Garden Nursery’s beautiful pastoral setting on the Illinois prairie is home to bountiful plant offerings that include uncommon annuals, tender perennials, trendy succulents, and hardy native perennials beneficial to hummingbirds, pollinators and songbirds. Plants are chosen carefully for their summer long beauty and weather tolerance and are lovingly showcased in whimsical display beds and container gardens.

At Cottage Garden we like to think of our nursery as a soulful encounter with nature, brimming with plants to fill your heart’s desire.

90 miles from Saint Louis, 3 miles west of Springfield, we offer the largest inventory of Japanese Maples in the Midwest, with over 300 different varieties and a huge assortment of other rare and hardy trees: Conifers, Ginkgo, Beech, Oak, Acers (other rare Maples), Umbrella Pines and Franklinia. Also, hundreds of one-ofa-kind solid granite or marble garden sculptures; lanterns, fountains, animals, people, benches, and tables, perfect additions to Japanese gardens and landscaping at home and business locations.

Open from April through October, Mon.-Sat. 9-5, Sun. Noon until 4. (Eve. by appt.). See the virtual tour on our website.

Rosey Acres

8250 Ridge Road Baldwin (618) 785-3011

We are a Grandma and Grandpa business. Grandma was the rosarian at the Missouri Botanical Garden from 1995 to 2005, and writes the rose column for The Gateway Gardener. Grandpa is the under-gardener and business manager. We carry roses that are good for this area and offer advice on the care of roses.

Many of the roses we carry are hard to find easy care roses. Last year we introduced premixed Chicken Soup for Roses, an organic fertilizer that builds your soil as it feeds your plants. See us at the Waterloo and Columbia Farmer Markets, or call for an appointment to see our roses.

Sandy’s Back Porch 2004 West Blvd.

Belleville (618) 235-2004 SandysBackPorch.com See Ad Pg. 15

Sandy’s Back Porch offers a unique and wide selection of annuals, herbs & veggies, perennials, shrubs & trees, and organic solutions. The entire staff are garden fanatics who are passionate about the plants we grow and sell. Your gardening success is a priority. Whether you’re a novice or serious gardener (or somewhere in between) our goal is to provide you with the resources to succeed in all your gardening endeavors.

The Gateway Gardener®

MARCH 2014

2013 Illinois Garden & Landscape Business Profiles Effinger’s Garden Center 720 S. 11th Belleville (618) 234-4600 EffingerGarden.com See Ad Pg. 20

Naturescapes Nursery

Gutter Gardens™

1674 N. Bluff Rd. Collinsville (618) 344-8841 See Ad Pg. 8

www.GutterGardens.com 618-334-2504 314-255-1845 See Ad Pg. 13

Effinger Garden Center has been serving the Metro-East’s gardening needs for 35 years growing a huge selection of quality perennials, unique annuals and herbs, popular roses, flowering shrubs, ornamental trees, water plants, native plants and garden accessories. We are family owned and operated. Our emphasis is on quality plants, excellent customer service, a knowledgeable experienced staff and good value.

Naturescapes has been growing for 25 years, our gardens tucked into the buff, paths to follow, plants to discover. Native plants mixed with immigrants, Japanese maple, beech, new varieties and old. Places to sit, enjoy the garden or just relax and unwind a little.

You’ll always find a friendly face or two for any questions or help you may need to start or make your garden better.

Locally made, Gutter Gardens are an addition to your gardening enjoyment or a solution for your gardening ‘issues’. By hanging on a balcony, fence, or as a window box, Gutter Gardens allow you to ‘Stand Up and Garden”.

Rabbits, weeds, slugs, and deer are problems no more! Made from heavy gauge aluminum rain gutters with drainage holes for outdoor needs or watertight for indoor herbs or plants. Mounting hardware is included. Local installation is available.

The Greenery

A. Waldbart and Sons Nursery

1021 W. Delmar Godfrey • (618) 466-8475 See Ad Pg. 19

Since 1987 The Greenery has grown outdoor plants for landscape gardening--perennials, flowering shrubs, small trees, herbs. and more, all available in ready-to-go containers. We think our home-made potting soil is the best, and we add real dirt to the bigger-type plants to get them transitioned better when you plant them in the real world. For a good selection of hostas, ferns, lilacs, etc., all organized and grouped for easy viewing, free advice for choosing a plant or designing your whole yard, birds and butterflies to see, all plants outdoors so they are acclimated, come see us. Owned by an Illinois Certified Nurseryman and degreed University of Illinois horticulturist.

MARCH 2014

The Gateway Gardener®

9110 North State Route 159 Dorsey, IL • (618) 585-3414 WaldbartNursery.com See Ad Pg. 9

Waldbart’s has carved out a solid niche in the Missouri/Illinois landscaping market because of their unique approach to trees: They grow their own. The company operates a 300acre farm in Illinois. Trained horticulturists and nurserymen grow a full variety of both hardwood and ornamental trees, appropriate for the rigors of the local climate. Thousands of shade, ornamental, and evergreen trees are harvested yearly. In spite of the many changes that Missouri and Illinois have seen over Waldbart’s 140 years, the owners, managers, and employees have carried on the tradition started long ago: High quality plants, exemplary customer service, and friendly team-oriented employees.

St. Louis Composting

5841 Mine Haul Road Belleville Frank Scott Parkway & Mine Haul Rd. (618) 233-2007 www.stlcompost.com facebook.com/stlcomposting See Ad Pg. 24

St. Louis Composting is the region’s leading producer of nature’s ultimate renewable resource- compost! We supply professionals and hobbyists alike with STA-Certified compost, topsoil and soil blends and a wide variety of mulches while simultaneously reducing the landfill waste across the metro area. We are always accepting your yard waste! Come by and visit our 100-acre compost facility.

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Maranta, Calathea and Stromanthe text and photos by Ellen Barredo

Lemon Prayer Plant

S

‘Rattlesnake’ Calathea

trange names for these stunning foliage plants, but believe me they are beautiful foliage plants belonging to the Marantacea family….another big strange word. These beauties originate in the shaded and humid rainforests of Brazil. Members of this family can display the colors of olive, pink, rose, and lemon tones and display blotches, lines or striped patterns.

Maranta goes by the common name Prayer Plant. The Maranta shown in the photo is the Lemon Prayer Plant. The Prayer Plant gets its name because the plant folds its leaves together as darkness approaches and looks like it is praying. Prayer Plants are the source of Arrowroot, which is used as a thickener in cooking.

The two photographed Calatheas are ‘Red Stripe’ and ‘Rattlesnake’.

Davidsan’s Japanese Maples and Granite Sculptures Over 400 varieties of Japanese Maples Palmatum • Dissectum • Dwarf • Japonicum • Shirasawanum AND hundreds of other rare trees Other Acers • Conifer • Ginkgo • Beech • Magnolia • Franklinia • Oak • Redwood • Tupelo...

ew!

N Granite Sculptures

‘Red Stripe’ Calathea These two striking plants do not appear to react quite so much to the approaching night. They are both very contemporary-looking plants and would work well in a big master bath with skylights.

Stromanthe Triostar increase humidity. Temperature changes cause distress for these plants. It is very important to place them away from doors and air vents.

When watering, keep plants evenly moist spring through early fall and let dry just slightly during winter.

The Stromanthe pictured in a mixed container goes by the common name ‘Triostar’. The Triostar works well indoors and Fertilize with organic fertilizer or out. Pictured is the Triostar used if using a chemical fertilizer use at in contemporary outdoor planters half strength. in the Central West End in St Louis. A great Ellen Barredo is a vertical accent!

Care in the Home

These foliage plants enjoyed a filtered light placement in the home.

No direct sun, please; it causes the patterned foliage to fade and scorch! Mist often to

Missouri Certified Nursery Professional with more than 30 years in professional horticulture. She works at Bowood Farms and can be reached at (314) 4554-6868 or ebarredo77@gmail.com.

Hand-made in China for your Asian Garden, at home or in a business setting. Lanterns, benches, animals, people, mailboxes, fountains and more!

Visit Us at our NEW LOCATION! 919 S. Farmingdale Rd. New Berlin, IL 62670 Five minutes West of Springfield, IL

Just an easy 90-minute drive from St. Louis

Open April-Nov. Mon-Sat 9-5, Sun 12-5 Other times by Appointment

(217) 303-2641 davidsan5611@gmail.com

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www.davidsansjapanesemaples.com www.davidsansgranite.com

The Gateway Gardener®

MARCH 2014

Totally Tomatoes

by Steffie Littlefield

A

summer filled with lovely healthful vegetables starts on your windowsill in March. Don’t just dream about gardening and wish you were tending fresh green plants, get those plants started now! Now is when you have the greatest selection of unique heirloom and organic varieties that you can start from seed in your own home. Here is your opportunity to grow the most exciting tomatoes with marvelous flavors and artful shapes and colors.

hardiness.

Among my must plant types are ‘Golden Jubilee’, ‘Sungold Select’, ‘Cour Di Bue’, and ‘Principe Borghese’.’Golden Jubilee’ is my favorite yellow tomato round and firm, medium to large, with a great meaty flesh and tremendous holding power. ‘Sungold’ is by far the sweetest fruitiest cherry tomato. The name comes from its bright gold color, which is quite ornamental as the bright-colored large clusters hang from a tall growing vine. ‘Cour Di Bue’ is a marvelous Italian heirloom tomato named for its oxheart shape. A bright red tomato with thick meaty walls is quite heavy for its medium size. Another Italian favorite is ‘Principe Borghese’. This small egg-shaped tomato is famous as a sundried tomato and perfect for putting in a dehydrator and storing for winter use in soups and salads. I find this is a very sweet tomato that is great for container growing since it is a large yielding determinate type.

Brandywine tomatoes are usually pink beefsteaks with a fruity sweet taste, and black tomatoes are known for their rich flavors. This year I’m looking forward to growing ‘True Black Brandywine’. One pink variety offered this year is a special selection found in San Ignacio, Belize, called ‘Belize Pink Heart’, with medium large fruit, burgundy pink with tender flesh and perfect flavor. Bound to be a heat lover from its origins!

Another sweet pink type to look for is ‘Missouri Pink Love Apple’. How can you resist a name like that? Grown since the civil war on a farm in Missouri, the rich-tasting big fruit stands up to its name with great

Experienced Climber Needed FULL TIME

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Applications Available Monday-Friday (8am-2pm)

6770 Olive Blvd 63130 • (314) 863-1903

MARCH 2014

The Gateway Gardener®

Baker Creek Heiroloom Seed Co.

There’s an amazing selection of tomatoes from Wild Boar Farms that are among the weirdest and most unusual heirloom varieties available.

‘Solar Flair Tomato’ has gold stripes on its bright red skin and a luscious sweet flavor as well as being very disease resistant. Loving the color blue in the garden I couldn’t resist trying ‘Blue Beauty Tomato’. It turns out to be a real winner with sunburn and crack resistance and Let’s face it, the most popular vegetables to grow outstanding flavor. For something really unusual ‘Michael Pollan’ in the home garden are tomatoes. The world of try ‘Michael Pollan’ tomato with its small green tomatoes contains more than beefsteak and plum and yellow striped fruit, a low acid mild flavor varieties. Some of my favorites and many unique selections are offered and unique pointed shape. by heirloom seed company Baker Creek Seed Co. from Mansfield, MO. Even if the weather is cold and damp you can start your vegetable I love to support local companies, especially when they offer such a great gardening indoors. Now is the time to get those wonderful heirloom product. To make it easy for you, I have done the research and ordered tomatoes growing so they are ready to plant outdoors in May. Think some of the most interesting and reliable seeds. beyond the grocery store varieties and try the amazing selections only available from seed and enjoy a summer filled with flavor, color and healthy eating.

Home-Grown Flowering Shrubs Sun Perennials Small Trees Steffie Littlefield is a horticulturist and garden designer at Garden Heights Nursery. She has degrees from St. Louis Community College at Meramec and Southeast Missouri State and is a member of Gateway Professional Horticultural Association and past president of the Horticulture Co-op of Metropolitan St. Louis.

Hostas and Ferns

READY FOR YOU! 1021 W. Delmar Ave. Godfrey, IL 62035 (618) 466-8475

6967 Route 111 Piasa, IL 62079 Phone (618) 729-4324

Where plant excitement rains...

Uncommon Annuals & Tropicals • Native Perennials Hummingbird Plants • Container and Display Garden

www.CottGardens.com

Visit our website for popular lunch and shopping stops near our nursery.

Hours: Mon - Sat 9-5 pm & Sun 10-5 pm

Bill & Chris Kelley

19

Springtime in the Rose Garden

By Diane Brueckman

T

he past winter has been a tough one for our roses and I might add for the caretakers of the roses.

I have been surveying the damage to my roses all winter long and have found many more black canes than usual in my beds. As tempting as it may be on warm spring days to peek under the mulch to see what is still alive please be patient and wait until after April 15th. This year waiting is more important than ever because the roses suffered from the extreme cold and most likely have a great deal of dieback. On the positive side, roses are often rejuvenated by a severe pruning once in a while and that is what Mother

Nature does with the freeze. As long as the plant was healthy and the bud-union did not freeze the roses should be fine, albeit a little short, when the season starts. It is very important when you uncover that you do it gently so as not to break any of the new basil shoots coming from the bud union.

Something you can do before

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April 15th is to finish pruning on the winter hardy shrubs and climbers. It is also a good time to get those baby weeds and the fall weeds you missed that are getting ready to set seed. Mail order roses will be coming any time now and should be planted out as soon as the ground can be worked. Be sure you cover them just as you would if you were winter protecting them in the fall.

Now is also a good time to check over your chemical supply and

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Gardening It’s Good For You! Perennials • Herbs • Annuals • Roses • Natives Water Plants • Ground Covers • Tropicals Fruit & Vegetable Plants • Ornamental Shrubs Trees • Vines • Pottery • Gifts Don’t Miss the FREE Workshop! Sunday April 6th • 12 Noon Easy Landscape Design A hands-on workshop to help you with your garden or landscape. Bring your photos, pictures and sketches.

One-on-one advice.

And join us at the Weekend Gardener event at Our Lady of Snows Shrine, April 12th for our presentation “Powerful Perennials: Plants for Season-Long Color and Good Stuff for 2014!”

application equipment. If your roses of choice are Hybrid Teas, Floribundas and Grandifloras, you need a regular spray program for the best looking plants and blooms.

Most pesticides require the use of chemical resistant gloves, goggles and a respirator. Check the filters on your respirator. If the filter inserts are discolored or you can smell the pesticide when you are wearing the respirator, the filters need to be replaced. Most filters are only good for about 8 hours of use. I change mine in spring regardless of how many hours they were used the previous year.

Your pesticide arsenal should contain 2 different fungicides that you alternate. Make sure the active ingredient is different in each one and follow the directions for mixing to the letter. Using too much will waste the chemical

Experts with Passion to Care For Your Trees

Offering Professional: Consultation & Design Plant Health Care Selective Natural Pruning Specimen Tree & Shrub Variety Installations

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TreesForestsAndLandscapes.com email: treesforests@sbcglobal.net

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The Gateway Gardener®

MARCH 2014

For more information on growing roses go to a Rose Society, either the Belleville Rose Society or St Louis Rose Society. Visitors are welcome. You can call me for meeting time and place.

DANGER : indicates a highly toxic product (POISON printed in red and skull & crossbones should appear on the label). Follow all precautions for apparel and use on the label.

AL C For Your Eco-­‐Friendly Lawn and Garden LO Proudly Produced in the Heartland ! Bluebird Premium Blend Organic Compost?

Why

WARNING: indicates a moderately toxic product, again follow all precautions on the label as to dress and use.

CAUTION: indicates a slightly toxic product, again follow all manufacturers’ instructions.

10- Helpful and Knowledgeable Staff 9- No Contaminated Grass Clippings 8- No Sewer Sludge or Dry Wall 7- No Unpleasant Odor 6- Reduces Reliance on Chemical Fertilizers and Pesticides 5- Child and Pet Friendly 4- Healthier Soil for Better Plant Growth 3- Independent Quality and Bioassay Tested 2- OMRI Listed for Organic Production 1- Made Through Local Closed Loop Recycling

If your goal is to go organic in your garden try a neem oil product.

Rose RX 3-in-1 is one of the Neem Oil products on the market. This product is labeled CAUTION, indicating slight toxicity, and is organic approved. It acts as an insecticide as well as a fungicide. Neem oil can be used on roses, flowers, fruit, nuts, vegetables, herbs, houseplants, trees and shrubs; also indoors. With all that, it is easy on beneficial insects. Again, I can’t repeat it often enough, read the labels before you use and preferably before you purchase.

Diane Brueckman is a retired rosarian with Missouri Botanical Garden, and currently owns Rosey Acres in Baldwin, Illinois. You can reach her at (618) 785-3011 or Brueckman Diane <droseyacres@ egyptian.net>.

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and possibly harm plants or using too little may lead to the target pest becoming resistant. Read the label thoroughly before mixing. On the front of the container will be one of three signal words that will indicate how dangerous the product is to humans. They are:

S HER

* Our new in-store boutique featuring deer-resistant trees, shrubs, perennials, annuals & tropicals conveniently displayed together under one roof.

GreenscapeGardens.com | 314.821.2440 2832 Barrett Station Rd., Manchester, MO 63021 Located 1 Mile West of I-270 on Barrett Station at Dougherty Ferry

MARCH 2014

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Upcoming Events

Updates to this information are often posted on our online events calendar at GatewayGardener.com, so check there for the latest details.

Give us the details of your upcoming gardening, lawn or landscaping event and we’ll add it to our website and include it in our next issue. Deadline for printing in May issue is April 1st.

How to reach us: Mail: PO Box 220853 St. Louis, MO 63122 Fax: (314) 968-4025 Email: info@gatewaygardener.com

FUN FOR KIDS March 1st 9am—Children’s Garden Club-Growing in the Garden. FREE, no reservations required, everyone welcome. Sherwood’s Forest Nursery & Garden Center, 2651 Barrett Station Rd., (314) 966-0028.

March 6th-9th Children’s Garden at the Home & Garden Show.

America’s Center, Booth 141.

March 15th Great Green Adventures: Spring Has Sprung!

Search for the first signs of spring as the Garden starts to wake up. For children ages 6 to 12 with an adult.

Great Green Adventures are held the third Saturday of every month from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. and from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. Walk-ins welcome. Meet at the Children’s Garden Ticket Fort. $3 per child. Missouri Botanical Garden.

March 29th-30th 9am-4pm—Doris I. Schnuck Children’s Garden: A Missouri Adventure Seasonal Reopening. Two fun-filled days of hands-on activities. Become a plant detective and explore the plants we eat. Work with staff to help plant our new edible garden and pot an edible plant to take home. Make a seed packet to start your own home garden. Visit with Finn, the Children’s Garden frog mascot, and get your cheek painted with fantastic art. The Children’s Garden.9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily. Presented by Macy’s Foundation.

Missouri Botanical Garden.

CLASSES, EVENTS

LECTURES

AND

Now through Mar. 23rd 9am-5pm— Annual Orchid Show. Features 800 blooming orchids from one of the world’s premier orchid collections. The Orchid Show is the only time of year when a vast, rotating selection of orchids from the Garden’s collection is available for public viewing. Orthwein Floral Display Hall at Missouri Botanical Garden. Garden admission plus $5; free for Garden members.

March 1st St. Louis Garden Blitz: Ask the Experts. A blitz of informative classes on gardening, food and cooking, art and photography and behind-the-scene tours.

Select from an ala carte menu of our most popular full-length classes and create your own custom fit educational experience! Bring your questions and visit the “Ask the Experts” tables between classes.

Prices range from $14 to $43 per class. Advance registration required. Visit www.mobot.org/classes or call (314) 577-9506.

9:30-11am—Dr. Allan Armitage Presentation.

Dr. Allan Armitage, one of the world’s leading horticulturists and most highly demanded speakers, discusses “Fifteen Favorite St. Louis Perennials,” “Armitage’s Greatest Perennials and Annuals,” and Nature’s Source Plant Food. Bowood Farms, 4605 Olive St., St. Louis. (314) 4546868, BowoodFarms. com.

10am—Square Foot Gardening. Ernie Henson, certified Square Foot Instructor, shows how to increase your garden yield while reducing labor. This is a class thru SWIC community education classes and there is a $9 fee. Sandy’s BackPorch, 4004 West Blvd., Belleville, IL. Call 618-235-2700 ext 5393 to register.

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10am—Spring Gardening Tips. Guest speaker Karen Collins, author of Karen’s Garden Calendar, offers tips for early spring gardening. Sugar Creek Gardens, 1011 Woodlawn Rd., Kirkwood. FREE. Call (314) 965-3070 for reservations.

10am—Prune Like a Pro. This hands-on clinic will take you through the most important strategies for pruning your plants. Learn when, what, where, why and how to prune. Feel free to bring your own pruners. Greenscape Gardens, 2832 Barrett Station Rd., Manchester, MO. (314) 821-2440, GreenscapeGardens.com.

10am—Beginning Vegetable Gardening. Join the University of Illinois Extension Master Gardeners as they show how to make a beautiful garden of your own. FREE. Willoughby Heritage Farm, Collinsville, IL. Call (618) 346-7529 to register.

1-3pm—Allan Armitage Presentation. Dr. Armitage, a renowned horticulture writer, speaker and researcher known throughout the world, will be speaking of his experiences in gardening including some notable annual and perennial plants and garden stories. He will discuss his mobile app that includes a plethora of plant varieties, photos, videos, Dr A’s recommendations for the best plants and more. There will be time for a Question and Answer session and Book Signing. Please RSVP. Hillermann Nursery & Florist, 636-239-6729, www.hillermann.com.

March 4th 7:30pm—”The Garden of Flora: New Discoveries of the Roman Seaside Villas of Stabiae near Pompeii.” The Archaeological Institute of America (AIA) will present a lecture by Prof. Thomas Noble Howe (Southwest University, Georgetown, TX).

The lecture is co-sponsored by the Missouri History Museum and is free and open to the public at the Missouri Historical Society. Light refreshments will be served afterwards. For further information, visit our website at: http://users/stlcc.edu/mfuller/aia or contact the AIA Office at 314-432-3900.

March 6th 2pm and 7pm—Succulents and Cactus. Pam Schnebelen, St. Louis Cactus Society, guest speaker at Sappington Garden Shop, 11530 Gravois Rd. (314) 843-4700. FREE. March 6th-9th St. Louis 37th Annual Builders Home & Garden Show. America’s Center, St. Louis. This year’s show features multiple large display gardens as well as a number of smaller landscapes. See the latest in lawn decorations, mowers and equipment, hardscape materials, fire pits, outdoor kitchens, nurseries, fencing, decking, playground equipment, plants, trees, shrubs and lawn and landscape services.

The Lawn & Garden Showcase is also home to the Green Thumb Theater, where gardening experts present seminars on a variety of topics, as well as the Children’s Garden Club, where kids can create free make-and-take projects. There is also the annual Flower Show Competition.

March 8th 10am—Beginning Perennial Gardening. Steps needed to create a successful perennial garden. Sugar Creek Gardens, 1011 Woodlawn Rd., Kirkwood.

FREE. Call (314) 965-3070 for reservations.

Noon-2pm—Vino Van Gogh Painting Event. A fun event bringing the experience of art and wine together! Vino Van Gogh provides all art supplies: canvas, brush, paint & an apron to wear. The art instructor leads the class through a 2-3 hour session following a featured painting. $38.00. Refreshments available. Bring your own wine. Seating may be limited. Sign up at www.vinogogh.com or call 866390-9917.

10 am—”As Seen On Pinterest!”: The Best Garden Projects for 2014. Learn to create the beautiful and useful projects for the garden you’ve pinned on Pinterest. FREE. Greenscape Gardens, 2832 Barrett Station Rd., Manchester, MO. (314) 821-2440, GreenscapeGardens.com.

11am ­– STL Natives at Frisella Nursery. A discussion with Simon Barker about St. Louis area native perennials, shrubs and trees, including techniques for

March 20th 2pm.and 7pm—Herbs: Those Glorious Flavors and Scents. “Mike” Ochonicky, SLCC-Meramec, guest speaker at Sappington Garden Shop, 11530 Gravois Rd. (314) 843-4700. FREE.

their establishment and care. Simon is the Director of Native Horticulture at Native Landscape Solutions.

Frisella Nursery, frisellanursery.com/events, (636) 798-2555.

March 9th 10am—Shade Gardening with Hostas. Ron Gatewood shares his years of experience gardening in the shade. This is a class thru SWIC community education classes and there is a $9 fee. Sandy’s BackPorch, 4004 West Blvd., Belleville, IL. Call 618-235-2700 ext 5393 to register.

1pm—Native Landscaping For Wildlife and People. Author Dave Tylka delivers a presentation on native landscaping. Public welcome. Kress Farm Garden Preserve, 5137 Glade Chapel Road, Hillsboro, Missouri. Call Jo at 636-296-9306 for additional information.

March 12-15th Washington Home, Garden and Outdoor Show.

Visit the Hillermann booth at the Washington Home Show in the Washington City Auditorium. New items and ideas in gardening, landscaping, equipment and more. Hillermann Nursery & Florist, 636-239-6729, www.hillermann.com.

March 13th 2pm and 7pm—Veggie 101: Natural and Organic Ways of Growing. Andy Chidester, Ladybug Natural Brand, guest speaker at Sappington Garden Shop, 11530 Gravois Rd. (314) 843-4700. FREE. 1-4pm—Native Plant School: Greenhouse Propagation. Bring your questions, comments, photos, drawings, and plant specimens for discussion.

Session includes hands-on tours and demonstrations.

Audience participation encouraged. $15 ($12 Garden members). Whitmire Wildflower Garden at Shaw Nature Reserve. Register and pay online at ShawNature.org, or call (636) 451-3512 ext. 0.

March 15th 9am-noon—Cool Season Vegetable Sale. Benefits St. Charles Master Gardeners. U. of MO. Extension.

St. Charles County Extension Center, 260 Brown Rd., St. Peters MO. Call 636-970-3000 for information.

10am—All About Trees Seminar. Josh Meurer, Meurer Bros. Tree Service. Raise the value of your home and reduce heating/cooling costs, while helping the environment. FREE, No RSVP. Sandy’s Back Porch, 2004 West Blvd., Belleville, IL. (618) 2352004, or SandysBackPorch.com.

10am-2pm—Silk Painting with Rose Monzyk.

Learn to paint a beautiful silk scarf with dye. You will complete a 36” square scarf. Cost: $58 for the class including supplies. $25 deposit required to reserve your space. Send deposit to: Rose Monzyk,, 245 Ladera Lane, Washington, MO 63090. Bring a snack if you’d like, and a clip hanger to hang your creation on to go home. For more information contact Rose J Monzyk, Phone: 636-239-5423, Email: rosemonzyk@charter.net. Hillermann Nursery & Florist, 636-239-6729, www.hillermann.com.

11am—”Know To Grow”: Top 10 Ways To Ensure A Successful Edible Garden. Learn everything you need to know to grow your own organic produce from your garden, from site preparation to plant selection to pest control. Greenscape Gardens, 2832 Barrett Station Rd., Manchester, MO. (314) 821-2440, GreenscapeGardens.com.

10am—Gardening 101-An Intro for Beginners.

Learn how to select and combine color, texture, form and bloom time.Sugar Creek Gardens, 1011 Woodlawn Rd., Kirkwood. FREE. Call (314) 9653070 for reservations.

11am ­­– Herbal Medicine Making 101. Get your growing season started with Brigitte Zettl’s demonstration on how to properly prepare infusions, decoctions, elixirs, herbal oils, and tinctures using Crown Valley Organics medicinal herbs. Learn how to make and use your own herbal remedies and get some helpful advice on growing and harvesting medicinal plants in your home garden. Frisella Nursery, frisellanursery.com/events, (636) 798-2555.

March 22nd 9am-2pm—Partners for Native Landscaping. In depth workshop for homeowners featuring Doug Tallamy, nationally acclaimed author of Bringing Nature Home. Information and resources on how to landscape with native plants for greener communities.

Missouri Botanical Garden, 4344 Shaw Blvd., St. Louis, MO. Register online at www.stlouisaudubon. org/PNL or call (636) 451-3512 x6078.

9am—Native Plants for the Home Garden. Join the University of Illinois Extension Master Gardeners as they show how to make a beautiful garden of your own. FREE. Willoughby Heritage Farm, Collinsville, IL. Call (618) 346-7529 to register.

10am—Beginning Perennial Garden Design. Learn how to design successful perennial gardens that will suit the existing conditions of your own yard. Sugar Creek Gardens, 1011 Woodlawn Rd., Kirkwood.

FREE. Call (314) 965-3070 for reservations.

10am—Fairy Gardens. Linda Sulentic will show us how simple and easy it is to make a fairy garden. Her lifelong enthusiasm for miniatures will inspire you to create one of your very own. FREE. Sandy’s Back Porch, 2004 West Blvd., Belleville, IL. (618) 2352004, or SandysBackPorch.com.

March 25th 6pm—Container Gardening. Join the University of Illinois Extension Master Gardeners as they show how to make a beautiful garden of your own. FREE. Willoughby Heritage Farm, Collinsville, IL. Call (618) 346-7529 to register.

March 26th 6pm—Choosing Perennials for your Landscape.

Join the University of Illinois Extension Master Gardeners as they show how to make a beautiful garden of your own. FREE. Willoughby Heritage Farm, Collinsville, IL. Call (618) 346-7529 to register.

March 27th 2pm.and 7pm—Growing Under Trees and Other Tough Spaces. Nancee Kruescheck, Continuing Education, SLCC-Meramec, guest speaker at Sappington Garden Shop, 11530 Gravois Rd. (314) 843-4700. FREE. March 29th 10am—Growing and Cooking with Herbs. Pamela Hurt-Bachetti is a grower of fresh herbs, and explains how simple they are to grow and how to use them in the kitchen. FREE Sandy’s Back Porch, 2004 West Blvd., Belleville, IL. (618) 235-2004, or SandysBackPorch.com.

10am—Deer-Free Zone: The Buck Stops Here.

Learn which trees, shrubs, perennials, annuals and tropicals have earned a spot in our “Deer-Free Zone”, our new department of plants that we love... but deer hate! Greenscape Gardens, 2832 Barrett Station Rd., Manchester, MO. (314) 821-2440, GreenscapeGardens.com.

March 29th-30th 8am-4pm— Mid America Regional Lily Society Sale. New cultivars and old favorites are sold by the areas top growers, who are on hand to offer plant care advice and share information about their organization. Lily enthusiasts share their knowledge and answer questions. Meeting is open to the general public. 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Beaumont Room, Ridgway Visitor Center Included with Garden admission. www.marls.org.

March 31st 6-7pm—Exhibit Opening. Nature Artwork by watercolorist Elizabeth Cole.

7pm—Missouri Natural Communities and Natural Areas. Mike Leahy, Natural Areas Coordinator for Missouri Department of Conservation. Both events are part of the Edgar Denison Nature Education Series at Kirkwood Library, 140 East Jefferson, Kirkwood, MO.

The Gateway Gardener®

MARCH 2014

MARCH 2014

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