Green Spaces 2019

Green

What’s Inside

• Tips for growing your own apples

• Lawn care tips for a lush, healthy lawn

• Things to consider before building a greenhouse

April 2019

spaces

Special Pullout Section! Greenhouse & Nursery Guide Pages 3-6

Tips and trends in flowers, garden décor and more

By Andrea Busche

Similar to other forms of technology, horticulture continues to advance with each passing year. Plants are being bred to be more vibrant, more fragrant, and particularly hardy for our cold climate.

Bonnie Stotts, owner of Beier’s Greenhouse – located on Highway 169 East, halfway between Grand Rapids and Coleraine – shared some of the hottest trends, along with several helpful tips, for helping your garden grow this season.

• How color can affect your garden

• How to control crabgrass before it appears

Popular Varietals

As in past years, bright, vibrant colors continue to dominate the market. Stotts shared a variety of plants making waves for 2019.

“It seems like people have always liked the bright, beautiful colors,” she noted. “Heliotrope are really pretty little blue flowers, and they are so fragrant.

Dahlias, especially the tall, XXL series, are just striking with beautiful colors. The Supertunia, a breed of trailing petunia, come in a multitude of colors and you don’t have to ‘deadhead’ them.

Contributed Photo

Bonnie Stotts, owner of Beier’s Greenhouse, says combining plants in one container is as easy as using “a thriller, a spiller, and a filler.”

‘The Apple Tree Guy’

Sharing tips for growing your own apples

By Andrea Busche

When naming your company or brand, concise language is key. Think about The Clapper or My Pillow; it’s immediately clear what product you sell. The same concept applies to Carlton, Minnesota’s own “Apple Tree Guy,” Dustin Anderson.

History

Anderson explained how he got started, and how he earned that fabulous name.

“Nine years ago, my wife Andrea and I bought 40 acres in Carlton with the plan to make wine,” he said. “We had written a business plan, bought a backhoe, and I ordered 100 apple trees to grow on the orchard with the grapes. I sold a lot of the apple trees because I ordered too many, and discovered that I made good money doing that.”

Continued on Page 9

Photos courtesy of theappletreeguy.com & Dustin Anderson

MAIN: Dustin Anderson and his wife, Andrea, pose by the gate entry of their property, which contains apple, pear, cherry, plum and apricot trees. Dustin is known to most as The Apple Tree Guy. INSET: The Evans Bali cherry is one of the varieties of cherry trees The Apple Tree Guy offers in Carlton, Minn.

Green 2019

A Plus Contractors and Garden Center

6150 Old Miller Trunk Hwy.

Saginaw, MN 55779 • 218-729-9079

Open April 29-Oct. 30

Daily 9am-6pm

• What is unique about your business?

A+ is the place to go for thing’s that grow!

• What are you excited about this year? We have new hanging basket combinations, new varietys of annuals and perennials, and another addition to our greenhouse.

A-1 Asphalt

Duluth/Superior

218-940-3530

Open April 27-Nov. 28

• What is unique about your business? Professional grade sealcoating, asphalt patching and hot mix are available.

• What are you excited about this year? We’ve provided honest, reliable and quality service since 1991.

AJ Landscape Center

6386 Highway 2 Duluth, MN 55810

218-729-4686

Open May-October

Mon-Fri 8am-5pm; Sat 9am-2pm; Sun 10am-2pm

GREENHOUSE & NURSERY GUIDE spaces

• What is unique about your business? We carry a full selection of landscaping supplies.

• What are you excited about this year? We have a good selection of trees, shrubs and perennials.

Anderson’s Greenhouse & Florist

1403 7th Ave.

Two Harbors, MN 55616 • 218-834-4837

Open year round

Mon-Fri 8am-5:30pm; Sat 8am-4:30pm Also open Sundays only Mother’s Day through June

• What is unique about your business? We grow the plants we sell. We are very careful in the chemicals/ pesticides that need to be used. We’ve always grown nice pansies and violas. Anderson’s Greenhouse was started in 1956 by Jerry Anderson with the current owners here since 1972.

• What are you excited about this year? We’re always trying new and exciting varieties, more succulents and lots of new ceramic pottery.

Barb’s Perennials

214 Erickson Road

Esko, MN 55733 • 218-590-2697

Open May 15-Sept. 13

Wed-Sun 10am-5pm; Closed Mon-Tue

• What is unique about your business? Our customer service is unique, with Barb’s 30-plus years of personal experience designing and growing perennials, shrubs and berries. We have varieties all hardy to Zone 3. We have lots of new daylily and lily varieties. Deer and rabbit repellants are used successfully by Barb, all organic.

• What are you excited about this year? We have several new varieties of perennials — Campfire Rose and Cherry Frost Shrub Rose, both hardy for our area. For the first time, we’re offering daylillies from Barb’s private collection.

Beier’s Greenhouse

2707 Midway Lane

Grand Rapids, MN 55744 218-326-5357

Open April 23-Sept. 1

Opening Week: Mon-Sun 10am-5pm; Spring: Mon-Sat 9am-7pm, Sun 9am-6pm;

Early Summer: Mon-Sun 8am-8pm;

Mid-Summer: Mon-Sat 9am-7pm, Sun 9am-6pm;

Late Summer: Mon-Sat 9am-6pm, Sun 10am-5pm”

• What is unique about your business?

“Beier’s is proud to have been a family owned business for over 60 years. We have a knowledgeable and experienced staff to assist you in all your gardening needs. We grow quality annuals, perennials,

vegetables, trees and shrubs in the north for the northern gardener. We also promote education by offering a variety of seminars and classes to our customers. To register, please visit www.getlearning.org, or visit our website at www.beiersgreenhouse.com.

• What are you excited about this year? This year we have more annual combination gardens available than years past. Beier’s Garden Blast collection of plants makes it easy for you to create beautiful planters or hanging baskets! We also have lots of beautiful garden art on display as well as many gorgeous outdoor fountains! Stop in and check out our wide selection of new annuals, perennials, trees and shrubs. Like us on Facebook. We love posting pictures of all our plants as they start blooming! Please visit our website at www.beiersgreenhouse.com and don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter where you can get sneak peeks at the week’s specials, first to know about upcoming events and special coupons!

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Bending Birches Greenhouse

5996 Cant Road

Duluth, MN 55804 • 218-525-1994

Open May 1

Mon-Sat 9am-5pm; Sun 10am-3pm

• What is unique about your business? Everything is done organically and we grow all plant material from seed. We use compostable containers. Hard to find and unique plants are our specialty.

• What are you excited about this year? We have several new varieties of morning glory, more varieties of heirloom plants and fun and unique hanging basket combinations.

Bloomer’s Garden Center & Landscaping

1037 Golf Course Road

Grand Rapids, MN 55744 • 218-326-0668

Open April 22-Oct. 31

Call for current business hours

• What is unique about your business? We carry a large selection of perennials, trees and shrubs, all zoned for our climate. We have very knowledgable staff to help you select the perfect plants for your yard.

• What are you excited about this year? Our greenhouses have over 500 varieties of annuals, veggies and herbs, 2,200 unique hanging baskets and planters to choose from, and a wide range of house plants and containers. We also have the largest selection of bird baths, fountains, statuary, yard art and memorial items in the area!

Byrn’s Greenhouse of Zim

1990 Highway 7

Zim, MN 55738 • 218-427-2634

Open April 25-July 1

Mon-Fri 8am-8pm; Sat 8am-5pm; Sun 9am-5pm

• What is unique about your business? We are home-gorwn for four generations (fifth is in the oven!).

• What are you excited about this year? We are excited to watch Deb on WDSE with Bob Olen every Thursday. Come out to the farm April 27 to hear Julie Overom speak about her rose breeding and check out her rose “Cherry Frost.”

Cherry Greenhouse

9960 Townline Road

Cherry, MN 55751 • 218-263-9304

Open April 27-Dec. 23

Mon-Fri 8am-8pm; Sat-Sun 9am-6pm

• What is unique about your business? We offer a large plant variety and types of plants, we pay attention to detail, and offer quality plants.

• What are you excited about this year? We’re excited about our fruit trees, new annual and perennial varieties, new fall seasonal items, and Christmas/holiday trees, wreaths and decorations.

Country Craft Shed & Greenhouse

7016 Van Road (Island Lake)

Duluth, MN 55803

218-590-3434 or 218-721-3258

Open May 4-July 28

Sat-Sun 10am-4pm

• What is unique about your business? We offer locally grown perennials, unique hand-made gifts and garden items.

• What are you excited about this year? We’ll offer fairy gardens and supplies and garden junk primitives.

Denny’s Ace Greenhouse

7 Calvary Road Duluth, MN 55803 • 218-728-4479

Open N/A-June 30

Mon-Fri 8am-6:30pm; Sat 8am-5pm; Sun 10am-4pm

• What is unique about your business? We have a large variety of annuals and perennials with a friendly and helpful staff.

• What are you excited about this year? We have new variety of plants!

Denny’s Lawn & Garden

4122 Woodland Ave.

Duluth, MN 55803 • 218-728-1854

Open Mon-Fri 8am-6pm; Sat 8am-4pm

• What is unique about your business? We carry major/dependable brand names in lawn mowers, blowers, trimmers, tillers, chain saws and protective equipment. We provide SERVICE for what we sell, and many

• What are you excited about this year?

We are excited about a beautiful spring and summer, after this long winter! We are ready with the tools to help beautify your lawn and landscaping, so your yard is the talk of your neighborhood!

dj’s daylilies

1071 Sorenson Road

Holyoke, MN 55749 • 218-522-0284

Open May 27-Sept. 2 primarily by appointment

• What is unique about your business? We grow and sell over 250 varieties of northern hardy daylilies.

• What are you excited about this year? Daylily Week will be July 27-Aug. 3. Check our website, www.djsdaylilies.com, for more details and a listing of our plants for sale. This is the time we call peak season, when most of our varieties are in bloom — a lovely site!

Duluth Farmers Market

Corner of 14th Ave. E & 3rd St.

Duluth, MN 55703 • 218-591-0632

Open May 5-End of October

Wed 2-6pm; Sat 8am-Noon

• What is unique about your business? Our products are locally grown by the person selling. We have providen vetable varieties tested in this area.

• What are you excited about this year? We offer maple syrup!

Duluth Sod and Landscaping

3688 Midway Road

Hermantown, MN 55810

218-729-6969

Opening in Spring

Mon-Fri 9am-5pm; call for weekend hours

• What is unique about your business? We are a locally owned business offering the freshest quality sod in the Northland, delivered curbside!

Evergreen Lawn Service

Duluth, MN

218-525-0160

Open Early Spring-Late Fall

Call for appointment

• What is unique about your business?

We are locally owned and operated, and committed to providing our customers with the most effective lawn care available, helping you to achieve the many benefits of a thick, healthy and beautiful turf. The Evergreen Lawn Program is designed to multiply your existing turf through timely fertlization as we eliminate the controllable weeds from your lawn. In just one season, we can multiply your turf considerably (10 to 15 times) and reduce up to 95 percent of the controllable weeds. The combination of proper lawn maintenance and the Evergreen Lawn Program can bring tremendous results for your lawn! The best-looking lawn is a green, healthy, weed-free lawn. And healthy lawns are what our nitrogen-balanced lawn feeding program is all about.

• What are you excited about this year? We are excited about our tree and shrub program, and welcome your calls and questions regarding scheduling an appointment to make your home’s landscaping healthy and beautiful.

Gardening Junky

4776 Hermantown Road

Hermantown, MN 55811

218-626-JUNK (5865)

Open May 11-June 8

Greenhouse Hours: Sat 10am-4pm; Sun 11am-3pm;

New Vintage Marketplace: Open year round third during weekend of month, Thur-Fri 10am-6pm, Sat 10am-4pm”

• What is unique about your business? We are “where gardens and junk collide!” We have new and repurposed garden art and vintage treasures to embellish your gardens, succulents and hypertufa concrete planters, and a FUNky greenhouse shopping experience!

• What are you excited about this year? We have more workshops and private paries in the greenhouse. Also new this year are hypertufa trough planters, terrariums and lots of

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Good Garden Company

2724 N. 21st St.

Superior, WI 54880 • 218-348-8650

Open April 27-Oct. 31

Mon-Fri 10am-6pm; Sat 9am-6pm; Sun 10am-4pm

• What is unique about your business? Our customers constantly comment on the great health, vigor and variety of annuals, perennials, trees and shrubs.

• What are you excited about this year? We have the best garden decor! Beautiful pieces are arriving dailu/ We have lots of variety in fruit trees and edibles, so you can grow your own healthy food.

Gordy’s Gifts & Garden Center

4899 Miller Trunk Hwy.

Duluth, MN 55811 • 218-722-8666

Open May 1

Mon-Fri 9:30am-7pm; Sat-Sun 9:30am-6pm

• What is unique about your business? We have beautiful hanging baskets, and a huge selection of annuals, perennials, herbs and veggie starters.

• What are you excited about this year? We have new flower colors!

Grindstone Greenhouse

21594 River Chase Road

Hinckley, MN 55037 • 320-384-7661

Open May 4-Sept. 1

Mon-Fri 9am-6pm; Sat 9am-5pm; Sun 9am-3pm

• What is unique about your business? We have unique fairy garden designs and awesone designer containers.

• What are you excited about this year?

We love helping our customers design their containers and sharing unique ways to design succulant containers using wheel barrows and unique containers.

Grussendorf Nursery Inc.

4124 Midway Road

Hermantown, MN 55811

218-729-7351

Open April 27-Oct. 31 • Mon-Sat 8am-7pm

• What is unique about your business?

We are a three-generation, familyowned business for 67 years. We are old school and we know what grows in our area. We don’t push to sell trees or shrubs that are not hardy. We only sell what works in our climate.

• What are you excited about this year? We are excited about visiting with all of our customers at our nursery, handing down three generations of knowledge on nursery and landscaping ideas. We have a huge selection of fruit trees — the biggest selection in the area.

Hammarlund Nursery

159 N. Cloquet Road E. Esko, MN 55733 • 218-879-3600

Open April 26-Nov. 1

Mon-Fri 9am-6pm; Sat 9am-5pm

• What is unique about your business? We are a family run business that has served the Twin Ports region for over 60 years. Rooted in tradition, we employ cutting edge horticulture and permaculture techniques. Our unique approach to landscape design begins with a focus on building soil health and creating harmony with natural systems. We stock a wide variety of unique cold climate and native shrubs, trees, and vegetables. Mention this ad when you call or stop by our sales office for 10 percent off your purchase of $100 or more.

• What are you excited about this year? We are launching several new products focused around farmscaping — a move from ornamental to functional landscaping. We also are opening the vineyard and greenhouses for weddings, parties and special events. Our inaugural event will be an art walk + dinner through the farm on Thursday, June 20, featuring an all plant based gourmet menu designed by our partner from Toronto, The Plant YYZ.

Hauser’s Superior View Farm

86565 County Hwy. J

Bayfield, WI 54814 • 715-779-5404

Open May 1-Oct. 31 • Daily 9am-5pm

• What is unique about your business?

We are a three-season farm with fieldgrown winter hardy perennials that ship all over the U.S. In May we run our famous Red Barn Sale with these perennials as well as annuals, bedding plants, vegetable plants, fruit trees and plants, shrubs, and other garden items. Summer is berry season and fall is apple season.

• What are you excited about this year? New to the farm is Apfelhaus Cidery, our very own hard cider grown, pressed, fermented, bottled and sold all at the farm.

Hillside Acres Greenhouse

1875 County Road 1

Wrenshall, MN 55797 • 218-969-2030

Open May 3 • Daily 9am-6pm

• What is unique about your business?

We have free dahlias for Mother’s Day! We are locally owned and operated and feature beautifully designed hanging baskets, an amazing selection of annuals and bedding plants, and all vegetables are locally grown.

• What are you excited about this year? We have a new perennial cool house with hundreds of one-gallon potted perennials, and a new tree and shrub lot.

Kunnari Greenhouse

7873 Bodas Road

Eveleth, MN 55734 • 218-744-5853

Open May 1-July 1

Mon-Sat 9am-7pm; Sun 12:30-5pm

• What is unique about your business? From unique varieties and patio pots, to different hanging basket combos — we have something for everyone!

• What are you excited about this year? We have great new fun colors in our calibrachoas, and a new vintage theme for seasonal succulent arrangements.

Lilac Hill Greenhouse

(formerly Engwall Garden Center)

4749 Hermantown Road

Hermantown, MN 55811 • 218-727-8964

Open May 6-July 15

Mon-Sat 9am-6pm; Sun 10am-6pm

• What is unique about your business?

Our main growers, Colleen and Tyler, have grown many new varieties of annuals and perennials just for our area. We are a local greenhouse with our beginnings dating to the late 1800s.

• What are you excited about this year? We are excited to bring excellent locally grown plants to our customers. Seeing their smiling faces makes all the hard work worth the effort!

Lilac

Hill Greenhouse

(formerly Engwall Garden Center)

1200 Arrowhead Road (Kenwood Shopping Center)

Duluth, MN 55811 • 218-727-8964

Open May 7-Aug. 28

Mon-Sat 9am-7pm; Sun 10am-6pm

• What is unique about your business? Our growers grow annuals and perennials for our area. We are local quality growers emphasizing the best varieties for the Twin Ports.

• What are you excited about this year? We have great new combination hanging baskets, and new varieties of annuals and perennials.

Maxwell’s Woodland Nursery

6185 Lax Lake Road

Finland, MN 55603 • 218-353-7726

Open May 1-October 1 • Daily 9am-5pm

• What is unique about your business? We love perennials, but have a broad knowledge growing anything in the north!

• What are you excited about this year? We have beautiful annuals, perennials, trees and shrubs! We offer many varieties of peppers and tomatoes, including heirlooms, along with our gorgeous hanging baskets — check out our mixed garden baskets!

Missinne Greenhouse & Landscape

6553 S. County Road K

South Range, WI 54874 • 715-399-2527

Open May 1-July 1

Weekends Only: Fri 2-6pm; Sat-Sun 9am-3pm

• What is unique about your business?

Our business is unique in so many ways. We take pride in our handcrafted, personally tended plant material. We have trained, educated, artistic and hardworking staff to help you be a successful gardener. We try to keep our style modern while maintaining the traditional.

• What are you excited about this year? We are excited about being open for limited retail and visiting with all of our great customers and, of course, excited about several new varieties.

Northern Landscapes & Garden Center

2103 Highway 37

Hibbing, MN 55746 • 218-263-9739

Open May 1-Oct. 1

Mon-Fri 9am-6pm; Sat-Sun 9am-4pm;

Closed Sundays after July 1

• What is unique about your business? We have bulk products such as black dirt, rock, sod and mulch. We have new varieties of perennials and shrubs.

• What are you excited about this year? We’ll have invincibelle mini hydrangias.

Rice Lake Gardens

5563 Rice Lake Road

Duluth, MN 55803 • 218-729-7299

Open Spring: May 10

Mon-Sat 9am-6pm; Sun 10am-5pm

Open Fall: Sept. 13

Fri-Sat-Sun 10am-5pm

• What is unique about your business? Most everything is grown on site, many started from seed and organically grown. “Grown in Duluth, for Duluth!”

• What are you excited about this year? We’ll have more varieties of hanging basket mixes, large selection of annuals and vegetables not found elsewhere, and we’ll have a Mother’s Day Weekend Basket Sale.

Rick’s Tree & Stump Removal

4268 W. Calvary Road

Duluth, MN 55803 • 218-728-2427

Open Mon-Fri 8am-4:30pm

• What is unique about your business? We’re here for all your tree care needs — pruning, emerald ash borer prevention and other plant health care programs. We have certified arborists on staff.

• What are you excited about this year? We are excited to help trees stay healty, meeting our customers, and warm weather!

Rosie’s Hostas

208 Ratika Road

Esko, MN 55733 • 218-879-5027

Open End of May-End of October

Daily 8am-8pm

• What is unique about your business? I have over 1,000 different kinds of hosta and many perennials. You can tour the garden and select your hosta and I will dig it for you. Some are potted, too.

• What are you excited about this year? We have many streaked varieties for sale. We also have many varieties that are very rare. I do not sell liners, but the plants are full grown.

Spring at Last Greenhouse

4112 W. Arrowhead Road

Duluth, MN 55811 • 218-728-3785

Open May 3-June 22

Mon-Sat 9am-7pm; Sun Noon-6pm

• What is unique about your business? We are family owned. We grow most of our plants from seed to finish. We are known for our beautiful, big, healthy geraniums. All of our employees are friendly, helpful and caring.

• What are you excited about this year? We are excited about the new herbs we are growing along with the new varieties of annuals and perennials. We are also very excited about the expansive new fairy garden figures we will be offering; they will help tell a unique story in every fairy garden.

Suzie’s Country Greenhouse

4148 Normanna Road

Duluth, MN 55803 • 218-721-5148

Open May 6-Mid-June

Mon-Fri 9am-7pm; Sat 9am-5pm; Sun 10am-3pm

• What is unique about your business? We have a large selection of different varieties of plants and, as always, hanging baskets, combination planters, rose bushes and more.

• What are you excited about this year? We love all the new colors in petunia, calibrachoa and much more. We have expanded on vegetable plants potted for the patio including a basil tree. The barn is full of garden art, perfect for Mother’s Day.

Teri’s Greenhouse

4650 Lavoy Road

Brookston, MN 55711 • 218-348-4754

Open May 1-Mid-June

Mon-Fri 9am-6pm; Sat-Sun 9am-4pm

• What is unique about your business? We have big, beautiful baskets!

• What are you excited about this year? Flowers!

The Dirt Lady Gardens, Greenhouse & Treasures

7299 Hill Road Virginia, MN 55792 • 218-741-0174

Open May 5-Sept. 1

Daily 9am-6pm

• What is unique about your business? We offer personalized service. Our businesses are located on a 100-plusyear-old farm, featuring annuals, perennials, vegetables, herbs and shrubs, gifts, antiques, and local artists’ work. In addition, we own Organic Gold Black Dirt Inc. and offer pickup or delivery.

• What are you excited about this year? We love helping guests with their

Winter Greenhouse

W7041 Olmstead Road

Winter, WI 54896 • 715-266-4963

Open April 25-Oct. 15

April 25-July 4: Daily 8:30am-5:30pm; July 5-Oct. 15: Daily 8:30am-5pm

• What is unique about your business? We are known for creativity, variety and atmosphere. We have over 800 different varieties of hardy perennials, as well as unique hanging baskets of various sizes and combinations. We have a large selection of excellent quality trees, shrubs and evergreens, as well as many display gardens in sun, shade, and water, where we display all these plants. We have one of the largest collections of miniature gardening plants and items in Wisconsin, and an awesome and talented staff.

• What are you excited about this year? Come check out our big miniature “Botynical Garden,” our houseplant and tropicals selection, and 103 new varieties of perennials. We accept checks and all major credit cards.

Young’s Greenhouse

94037 Partridge Road N. Sturgeon Lake, MN 55783 • 218-485-5961

Open May 4-June 30

Mon-Fri 9am-6pm; Sat 9am-5pm; Sun 10am-4pm

• What is unique about your business? We are a family-owned local business specializing in plants grown for our area and zone. Our hanging baskets and specialty containers are unique.

• What are you excited about this year? We grow a lot of old-time favorites from zinneas, celosia, cleome and salvia, and we have many new varieties in succulents, purslare, petunias and impatiens.

Greenspaces

GREENHOUSE & NURSERY GUIDE

lawn care tips for a lush, healthy lawn

By Andrea Busche

Although it’s April, a mighty snowstorm hit the Northland recently. And despite all evidence to the contrary, warmer weather is on the way. Now is a great time to start thinking about your lawn: how to clean it up after a brutal winter, help it “heal,” and keep it healthy and vibrant all summer long.

Imagine, for a moment, a lush, healthy lawn. Thick, green grass provides a natural carpeting just outside your doorstep. A healthy lawn provides the perfect backdrop for those summer BBQs and Fourth of July parties, which are just around the corner.

With a little know-how and a bit of maintenance, this dream can be your reality. Paul Miller, owner of Evergreen Lawn Service in Duluth, gives us plenty of handy lawn care tips, which are attainable for the average do-it-yourselfer.

Clean and prepare

Miller recommends staying off your lawn while it is still

“spongy.” The weight of your body can damage grass roots, and the wet pockets left behind by your footprints can become convenient breeding grounds for mosquitoes.

Once your lawn dries up, however, it’s time to get to work. This starts with a good raking. Miller said a thorough rake job will help remove snow mold (a fungus), by breaking up the spores. It’s also just good for the lawn.

“It’s like combing your hair,” Miller said. “The grass will fluff up and the air will get through it.”

Aerate and seed

If you’re concerned with the aesthetics of your lawn, a spring aeration is a good choice. Aeration involves poking thousands of holes in your lawn with the use of a special machine, which can be rented.

“Aeration relieves soil compaction and will provide a thicker root system,” Miller said.

If your lawn has some damaged areas, due to a tree removal or pets, the easiest and most cost-effective way to

repair it is to add some grass seed to the top. This can also be done by the average homeowner by using a fertilizer spreader. Be sure to check the label to ensure you purchase the right blend of grass seed, depending on whether your yard is sunny or shady.

Mow and water

Once summer arrives, Miller advises that the average lawn needs a good soaking once per week. This can be accomplished through natural rainfall, additional watering, or both. A rain gauge is a cheap, easy-touse tool to help measure how much rain has fallen. And when it comes to mowing, Miller said the average lawn should be cut once per week.

With winters full of snow and ice, shovels and snowblowers, our lawns take a beating here in the Northland. By implementing a bit of preparation and maintenance, however, your lawn can be “healed” and in tiptop shape - just in time for BBQ season.

For more information, visit evergreenlawnservice.com.

“Coleus, particularly the Stained Glassworks series, have really different leaves,” she continued. “The edges are jagged or pointy, and they come in many gorgeous colors. And, when it comes to grasses, Prince Tut and Purple Fountain are really popular.”

When it comes to combining multiple plants in one container, Stotts recommends “a thriller, a spiller, and a filler.” The thriller is an eye-catching beauty, such as a Jasmine or Gardenia – keeping in mind that they aren’t zoned for our area. The spiller typically includes trailing vines (like an ivy), and the filler can include grasses or decorative flowering plants, such as Cordyline.

Other trends

Fairy gardens, where the gardener combines mini trees and shrubs, pebbles, and mosses with tiny figurines and lifelike scenes, continue to reign supreme.

“You’re building a little village,” Stotts explained. “It’s kind of like playing house.”

GREEN SPACES

Fairy gardens are typically grown indoors, and the décor can be changed out for the seasons.

Popular outdoor garden décor items include fun, colorful plant stakes, garden chimes, hummingbird feeders, and gazing balls. Patio container gardening is a great choice for growing veggies, and herbs are in very high demand.

When it comes to growing your own food, Stotts noted that youth are leading the way.

“There are lots of young gardeners now,” she said. “Our new generation is realizing that growing your own is so much healthier, and they are teaching that to their children.”

Locals know best Stotts’ top gardening tip is to visit your local greenhouse, where staff can help point you in the right direction. Greenhouse staff are well-versed in climate zones, plants that grow well in sun versus shade, information about soil conditions, and many other nuances of gardening.

But above all, “Be sure to visit a nursery that grows their plants from seed or plug,” Stotts advised. “These plants will already be acclimated to our climate, and be a much hardier plant.”

For more information, visit beiersgreenhouse.com.

OPENING MAY 1ST

• Environmentally conscious growing practices including compostable containers

• Classic & hard-to-find bedding plants, including a wide variety of succulents

• Heirloom & traditional tomatoes, vegetables & herbs

• Custom baskets & container designs

• Pollinator garden plants

• Many perennials, fruits, trees & shrubs 5996 Cant Rd • Duluth, MN 55804 218-525-1994

Open Daily: Mon-Sat 9am-5pm • Sun: 10am-3pm

Located just north of Duluth off of Lismore Road

Contributed Photo

Bright, vibrant colors continue to be the popular choice for garden enthusiasts.

Contributed Photo

Beier’s Greenhouse has a giant Fairy Garden that gets freshly planted each spring. This is how it looks this year! It has definitly turned into a Fairy Jungle!

While Anderson planted a few of the fruit trees on his property, he continued buying and selling the trees, and eventually the idea of a winery was scrapped. Today, Anderson considers himself a “tree wholesaler,” selling a multitude of apple tree varietals, as well as plum, cherry, pear, and apricot trees.

Anderson sources his trees from Oregon and southern Minnesota, where the growing seasons are longer.

Anderson is also a beekeeper, and plans to invest in chickens and other animals in the future. He maintains a small orchard, where he grows grapes, raspberries, strawberries, hops, currants, blueberries, plums, cherries, apricots, and apples. While his trees aren’t mature enough to produce much fruit at this point, he does sell honey, and plans to sell fruit in the future.

But apple trees are his biggest business, and also how he got his name.

“People kept calling and asking for ‘The Apple Tree Guy,’ Anderson said. “I didn’t name myself that.”

Growing tips

While Anderson hosts comprehensive classes on planting, pruning, and integrative pest management, and recommends them for anyone interested in growing fruit, he generously offered to share a few tips with us.

Planting: A bare-root apple tree should be planted in the spring. A potted apple tree can be planted anytime.

Water: An inch of rain per week is sufficient. Otherwise, each young tree needs five gallons of water once per week.

Fencing: Install a six-foot-tall fence with a six-foot diameter around each tree to protect it from deer.

Location: Each apple tree needs at least eight hours of full sun every day.

Pruning: Prune a new tree immediately, and then every year or so (in the winter) for at least five years.

Environmentally-friendly

Buying locally or growing your own fruit is a good way to ensure you and your family are eating healthy, while helping the environment at the same time. The tree’s

blossoms attract helpful honeybees, and growing your own or buying local means less fruit has to be trucked in from elsewhere.

Anderson doesn’t use pesticides, and prevents bugs with a mixture of soap and oil, in a process known as integrative pest management.

“I’ve got tons of health troubles,” he said. “I even have a pacemaker. It made me think about what I’m eating, and whether it’s due to pesticides sprayed on the food. On our land, we drink water from a well, and I have honeybees to protect. I wouldn’t want to jeopardize our water or our bees by using pesticides.”

The Apple Tree Guy’s clever, to-thepoint name has stuck, and business is booming. Customers travel to do business with Anderson from as far away as Montana and Missouri. The business is Anderson’s full-time gig, and he wouldn’t have it any other way. “I’m not going to be a millionaire, but I love it,” he said.

For more information, visit theappletreeguy.com.

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Avidgardeners may be enticed by the idea of a greenhouse that allows them to explore their passion for plants year-round. While it’s true that greenhouses afford this luxury, there are important things to consider before erecting a greenhouse in your yard.

Greenhouses require ample time to maintain. Greenhouses are not selfmanaging; they require heat, water, venting, electricity, and maintenance on the part of gardeners. Individuals need to determine how much time they have to devote to a greenhouse and then consider their options.

Start by choosing the size of the greenhouse. Many experts, like those at the home and garden information site The Spruce, suggest getting the largest one you can afford and fit into the yard. It is much easier to fill a large greenhouse than try to expand on a small one later on.

Next, consider whether you want to build the greenhouse from scratch or utilize a prefabricated kit that can make easier work of the job. Kits typically contain all of the materials needed and are easiest for someone who is a construction novice. Look for “grower greenhouses,” which are all-

purpose options with adjustable shelving and space for growing plants full-term. The next step is deciding where the greenhouse will be located. The goal is to have a consistent amount of sunlight year-round. A south-facing locale is ideal, and structures should remain north of the greenhouse so they do not cast a shadow on it. The building, cars and technology resource Popular Mechanics advises gardening enthusiasts to take into consideration the angle of the sun during all seasons before choosing a location. Doing so ensures that the sun is not obscured in the winter or fall. Select a spot that also has ample drainage, as you will not want water pooling up along the sides of or underneath the greenhouse. Raise the greenhouse on footings to alleviate flooding concerns. Consult with a gardening or agriculture expert about the best way to heat the greenhouse. Options abound with electric-, gas- and propane-

powered heating sources. Some systems will require venting. You also will need to know what is available and legal in your area. Check to see if you need a building permit for the greenhouse and any accompanying heating elements.

Once the greenhouse is situated, you can begin to add other items, like benches, additional shelving, hooks for tools, and even an automated watering or misting system. Greenhouses take commitment, but the reward is the chance to enjoy gardening all year long.

How color can affect your garden

lower gardens can add color and aweinspiring appeal to a property. The National Gardening Association notes that gardeners can find nearly every color of the spectrum in flowering perennials. So whether you prefer soft pink, are partial to bright red or want to relax in a garden and gaze at something deep blue, chances are you’ll find a perennial to tickle your fancy.

The NGA offers the following breakdown of colors to help gardeners learn how their gardens can set the mood they’re looking for.

BRIGHT COLORS

A garden full of bright colors like red, orange, magenta, and yellow can provide a landscape with vigor and energy. The NGA notes that brightly colored flowers can withstand especially bright sunshine, meaning gardeners can marvel at their appearance even when the sun might be adversely affecting other plants and flowers.

PASTEL COLORS

Whether you prefer soft pink, are partial to bright red or want to relax in a garden and gaze at something deep blue, chances are you’ll find a perennial to tickle your fancy.

Pastels, which include soft pink, powder blue, lavender, and peach, create a tranquil feeling in a garden. This makes pastel perfect for those who want their gardens to be a relaxing, peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The NGA notes that pastels may looked washed out in the midday sun, so they might be best enjoyed early in the morning or late in the afternoon.

COMPLEMENTARY COLORS

Complementary colors are those that are opposite one another on the color wheel. Orange and blue are examples of complementary colors. According to the NGA, complementary colors can add creative energy and vitality to a garden.

HARMONIOUS COLORS

These colors are those that are next to each other on the color wheel, such as orange and red. The NGA recommends harmonious colors for gardeners looking to create a unifying feel in their gardens without resorting to a monochromatic color scheme. Harmonious colors give off a gentle feeling that can make for a relaxing garden atmosphere.

MONOCHROMATIC COLORS

Monochromatic gardens can be awe-inspiring even though they stick to a single color and don’t provide an array of awe-inspiring colors. The NGA notes that gardeners with monochromatic gardens make them interesting by using plants of various sizes and shapes.

When planting a garden, gardeners can choose whichever color scheme they prefer. To learn more about the effects of color on a garden, visit the National Gardening Association website at www.garden.org.

How to control crabgrass before it appears

Homeowners who enjoy tending to their lawns know that grass is vulnerable to a host of problems, many of which appear at a time of year when lawn enthusiasts want to showcase the fruits of their lawn-and-garden labors.

Crabgrass is a common problem that appears in summer. According to Lowes, crabgrass plants produce thousands of seeds between midsummer and early fall. While the first frosts of late-fall or early winter kill the crabgrass plants, the seeds produced by the plants remain dormant throughout winter and then begin to grow as the ground temperature warms up with the spring and summer thaw. As a result, controlling germination, which is the development of a plant from a seed or spore after a period of dormancy, is the key to preventing crabgrass from becoming an unsightly blemish that can harm your lawn in summer.

A proactive approach to crabgrass can save homeowners the headaches of dealing with this unwanted guest taking over their grass. The following tips, courtesy of Lowes, can help homeowners reduce the likelihood of their lawns being overcome by crabgrass as summer hits full swing.

• Recognize that routine lawn maintenance may not be enough. Even lawns that receive sufficient TLC can fall victim to crabgrass. A proactive, crabgrassspecific approach to lawn maintenance is the most effective way to control the problem before it pops up.

• Apply a pre-emergent herbicide. Pre-emergent herbicides kill crabgrass seedlings as they germinate. While these herbicides are highly effective, they

must be applied at precisely the right time. The right time to apply them depends on weather patterns. For example, Lowes notes that homeowners who live in regions that might have experienced warmer than usual winters will probably need to apply the herbicides earlier than usual. While the manufacturer instructions should always be followed when applying herbicides, it’s essential that homeowners take weather patterns into consideration as well.

• Wait until the ground temperature rises above 60 F. Applying herbicides when the ground temperature is below 60 degrees might render the products ineffective. Gauging soil temperature can be tricky, but Lowes advises monitoring shrubs and trees on the property. Once shrubs begin to bloom and trees bud, herbicide can be applied.

• Wait when treating newly seeded lawns. Preemergent herbicides might kill new grass seedlings, so homeowners with newly seeded lawns should wait until they have mowed their lawns three times before applying a herbicide.

• Emphasize uniform application. If a herbicide is not applied uniformly across the lawn, crabgrass can establish itself and ultimately spread to the rest of the lawn.

• Do not thatch or aerate after applying a herbicide. Thatching or aerating a lawn after applying a herbicide might break the product’s chemical barrier, thereby rendering it ineffective.

Crabgrass can quickly spread on an untreated lawn. A proactive approach that prevents its growth can keep lawns looking great through summer.

Did You Know?

Restore rusty tools

Many people may be tempted to discard rusty tools that have gone unused and sat in a garage or shed for a significant period of time, but tools encrusted with rust do not need to be relegated to the trash bin, nor do gardeners have to toil for hours scraping and sanding off the rust. There’s a much easier way to restore rusty tools that relies on a common household ingredient: vinegar. Pour vinegar into a deep enough vessel to submerge the metal part of the tool. Soak the tool overnight. The next day, use a scouring pad to rub off the rust. If the tool is too big to fit into a can or bucket, simply wrap it with a vinegar-soaked rag and cover the whole tool with a tightly secured plastic bag. Follow the same procedure the next day. After all the rust is gone, rinse the tool in cool water and dry thoroughly. Then return it to regular usage.