MN Arboretum Feb Mar 2014

F EB R UA RY / M A R C H 2014

Arborvitae Collection Outdoor Fun Western Chorus Frogs

arboretum.umn.edu

Classes and Winter Activities

Arboretum Trails Photo by Mark MacLennan

SPRING SEED BUYING – CHECK THE LIBRARY FIRST! There’s always something new to plant under the sun! You may find recent plant introductions and old favorites through Plant Information Online at: www.plantinfo.umn.edu. Here you may choose nurseries for more than 40 categories of plants (dahlias, daylilies, orchids, etc.,) and get connected to each nursery’s website when you are ready to shop.

If you prefer to sit back with a printed seed catalog (or 800), you may browse through the latest – from well-loved Burpee to esoteric Totally Tomatoes – at the Andersen Horticultural Library. Happy shopping!

FEBRUA RY-M A RCH 2014 • VO L 33, N O. 1 Minnesota Landscape Arboretum Magazine is published seven times a year by the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum Foundation, 3675 Arboretum Drive, Chaska, MN 55318-9613, 952-443-1400. The magazine is a benefit of Arboretum membership. No portion may be reprinted without permission from the Arboretum. The information published in this magazine is not necessarily endorsed by the University of Minnesota.

Patrick B. Petersen, Editor Judy Hohmann, Marketing & Communications Manager Tanya Kingery, True Reflection Design, Art Director Edward L. Schneider, Arboretum Director Megan Dayton, President, Board of Trustees Timothy S. Kenny, Director, Education Peter C. Moe, Director, Operations Frank J. Molek, Director, Development and Communications The Arboretum welcomes feedback from readers at arbinfo@umn.edu.

The Arboretum is part of The College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences at the University of Minnesota. To request a copy of this publication in alternate format, please call 952-443-1438.

2

arboretum magazine

•

A Message From the Director...

Ed Schneider

A Season To Imagine A winter hotbed is an apt description for the Arboretum this season. Whereas our neighbors in other parts of the country may question use of the word ’hot,’ the Arboretum in winter is a great escape and open to your imagination. It is the wonder of a walk in the woods, a hike on showshoes or a trek on cross-country skis. It is the joy of creating memories with family and friends—whether winter teas, cooking classes, weekend family fun programs or Sunday omelets in the Arboretum restaurant. It is the beauty of what will be as gardeners start visualizing flowers and vegetables (thanks to the phenomenal seed catalog collections at the Andersen Horticultural Library and supplies at the Gift Store). Come visit this season and imagine the possibilities.

Y

This time of year at the Arboretum is a period of preparation for the magic of the gardens—the thousands of tulips in spring, the annuals and perennials, the vegetables in the home demo and teaching gardens. This year will be quite different for the staff and many volunteers as an individual who was central in helping create the magic, Janet Sinner, is no longer with us. However, the memory of Janet, a 35-year employee and former landscape maintenance supervisor, who passed away this fall, will always be with us. She loved and cared about the Arboretum...and she will always have a special place in our hearts.

Table of Contents...

Frogs/Photography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Outdoors/Fairy Gardens. . . . . . . . . . 7

Arborvitae Collection. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Travel/Farmers Market . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Feature/Chocolate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Calendar at a Glance. . . . . . . . . . . 8-11

Syrup/Gardens/Membership . . . . . 6

Art/Save the Date. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

february/march 2014

On the Cover: Arboretum Footbridge Photo by Al Whitaker

Western Chorus Frog Photo by Jason P. Ross, Dreamstime.com

‘BEST OF THE ARBORETUM’ PHOTO SHOW Through the lens of the Arboretum Photography Society (APS), themes of the Arboretum landscape, wildlife and macro images of plants are captured in all of their mystery to inspire and delight. Judges of the juried show were Richard Sennott, Star Tribune; Mollee Francisco, Chaska Herald; and Jillian Bell, Tamron. Drop-in photo clinics by APS members are offered on Saturdays in January and February of the exhibit, noon-3 p.m., on the Visitor Center balcony, next to the show. All photos are for sale through the Gift Store, and the show continues through April 4, with a portion of

Thawing Frogs?

proceeds benefitting the Arboretum.

BEST OF SHOW

Matt Schuth Naturalist

In the warming days of late March, the wetlands and ponds around the Arboretum are freed from their icy polar grip. The calls of the Canada geese and red-winged blackbirds are vocal harbingers of spring. A more remarkable creature returning Lazarus-like from the dead of winter is the western chorus frog. Chorus frogs overwinter under leaf, litter and rocks within one hundred feet of the water they inhabit during the non-winter months. When temperatures drop below 32 degrees the frog’s liver begins to produce sugars (eventually glucose) which keeps cells from dehydrating and shrinking. As the frog freezes, its heart continues to pump the protective glucose around its body. Eventually the heart stops and all other organs also stop functioning. The frog uses no oxygen and appears to be dead … literally a frogsicle! As the weather warms, the frog thaws.

The call of the western chorus frog is similar to the sound of a thumb being run down the teeth of a comb. When you approach a pond of singing frogs, notice how they will all stop in unison.

Frogs need fish-free waters to survive. Individual females can lay hundreds of eggs over a season (usually 5 to 20 at a time.) Tadpoles metamorph in eightto-ten weeks.

In some Native American cultures, frogs are considered medicinal animals with healing powers, and are believed to have the ability to bring rain.

At the Arboretum, the chorus frogs’ song is a springtime symphony not to be missed.

Read More: “Reptiles & Amphibians of Minnesota Field Guide” – Book/CD set provides comprehensive recordings of all frog and toad species in Minnesota, Stan Tekiela, 14.95; and “Amphibians & Reptiles of the North Woods” – This book is printed in an innovative format including 200+ color photos that makes field identification a snap, Allen Blake Sheldon, $18.95 – both available in the Gift Store (952-443-1439).

“Where is Spring?” by Karen Blenker, Chanhassen “Currier & Ives Sunrise” by Michael Borg, Eden Prairie “Tulips in the Mist” by Ken Evans, Maple Grove “Koi” by Christopher Hall “Three Benches” by Todd Mulvihill, Shakopee “Sleepy Hollow” by Al Whitaker “Sweet Satisfaction” by Al Whitaker “Color Symmetry” by Al Whitaker “Special Light” by Tom Yoemans, Eden Prairie

GOLD AWARD WINNERS

“Machii in the Spring” by Gayle Fleming “Translucent Beauty” by Al Giencke “Yellow Ladyslipper” by Maggi Keith “Beetle Pad” by Joan Wallner, Edina “The Iconic Barn” by Al Whitaker “Serenity” by Al Whitaker

SILVER AWARD WINNERS

“Snow Desert” by Michael Borg, Eden Prairie “Sunrises as Color Falls” by Michael Borg, Eden Prairie “Two Frogs” by Michael Borg “Frosty February Morning” by Christopher Hall “The Fragrance Garden” by Vienna Volante “Winter Silhouette” by Joan Wallner

BRONZE AWARD WINNERS

“Pink Calla Lily” by Dianne Jandt “Milkweed Seeds Blowing in the Wind” by Diane Jandt “White and Pink Roses in Natural Light”

by Jack H. Jones, Chanhassen “Bearded Iris” by Mark Paulson, Mound “Dahlia Blooms” by Mark Paulson “A Perfect Perch for a Moment’s Rest”

by Kristy Walker, Excelsior “Three Scarecrows” by Mark Weber, Mankato

RUNNERS-UP

“What Lies Beneath” by Kim Herzog “Sunset on Three-Mile Drive”

by Lester Hughes-Seamans “How Sweet It Is” by Nathan Johnson “Natural Pictograph” by Roger Pavelle “Japanese Garden” by Roger Smallbeck “Hosta Path” by Marilyn Weber “Golden Gopher Iris” by Pat Witherow

february/march 2014

•

arboretum magazine

3

Arboretum Arborvitae Across the Iris Pond Photo by Al Whitaker

ARBorvitae

The Eighth in a Continuing Series on Tree and Shrub Collections at the Arboretum Richard Gjertson Landscape Gardener Nestled on the east end of the Dayton Wildflower Garden between a restored wetland, the Iris Pond, and a Maple/ Basswood forest is the Arborvitae Collection. This is a collection of many varieties of American Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis), also referred as Northern or Eastern White Cedar. This tree is an evergreen native to the northeastern United States and Canada. It commonly grows in wet woodlands, lakeshores and bogs.

The American Arborvitae, a tree with dense scale-like evergreen foliage, survives the cold winter temperatures of the northeastern United States – perfect for our northern gardens and landscapes. The two major complaints with the trees are that they are large and their foliage turns brown during the winter months. Horticulturalists addressed these issues and selected varieties that had dark green winter color, narrower or shorter growth habit, and even trees with yellow foliage.

You will find the results of their work displayed the Arboretum Arborvitae Collection. Varieties Pyramidalis, Sherwood, Smaragd and Spiralis grow tall and narrow; Lutea, Golden Hardy, Douglasii Aurea and Winona feature a yellow or golden coloration. Watong, Woodwardii, Hoopesii and Hoseri are short globes, while the Thuja occidentalis Techny is a dense

4

arboretum magazine

•

february/march 2014

broad-growing plant 25-feet tall and 12-feet wide after 52 years, with deep green winter color.

The Arboretum’s collection was established in 1976 after completion of the Iris Pond. The plants were started from stem cuttings, grown in pots for a few years before being planted on the site.

Come on out and walk through the collection, the trees are tall and full, producing a deep cool shade on a hot summer day. White-tailed deer keep the bottom branches pruned off, making it easy to meander through the many varieties with their wide ranges of shapes and colors. The Arboretum snowshoe trail is routed through the Arborvitae, with snow clinging to the branches. What a great time to view the many forms of Thuja occidentalis.

Read more: “Trees and Shrubs for Northern Gardens” – This new, expanded edition of Dr. Leon C. Snyder's landmark book, first published 20 years ago, provides up-to-date information on more than 1,100 trees, shrubs and woody vines. Dr. Leon C. Snyder (revised by Richard T. Isaacson), $29.95, and “Conifers for Gardens” – Takes away the element of uncertainty when you are choosing a plant that may alter your yard for years to come. Richard L. Bitner, $59.95 – both available in the Gift Store (952-443-1439).

THE SEASONS OF MUSIC

The Klacans in Scotland

Life-Changing Support For nearly a half-century, the Arboretum has held a special place in the hearts of George and Mary Lou Klacan. Their keen interest in the work of the Arboretum lead the Klacans to establish an endowment for student internships in pest management.

A job at Green Giant brought the Klacans to Minnesota in 1965. Even as George’s work in pest management took him around the world, he and Mary Lou raised four children, who grew up enjoying the beauty of the Arboretum— its then-160 acres and one picnic table. George served as a volunteer trustee on the Arboretum Foundation Board. In 2009, George yearned to get back to his roots and volunteer in the gardens. “I snapped him up in a minute,” recalled Dan Miller, the Arboretum’s plant health specialist, who supervises the work of students and volunteers for integrated pest management practices, “George shows a genuine interest in what our students are doing and learning.” Miller found a kindred spirit in a fellow agronomist. George volunteered in scouting and treating pest problems, maintaining research plots and helping on restoration projects.

The Klacans’ lifelong support for the Arboretum is a family commitment—both volunteer at the Andersen Horticultural Library, attend Gala in the Gardens and Toast & Taste, and recently toured Scotland with Peter Olin, Arboretum director emeritus. But for Jenny Sirota, 2013 student intern, and future interns, the Klacans’ support is life-changing as they begin their careers.

Photo by Margo555, Dreamstime.com

The Arboretum will be filled with the sounds of love and music on the night of Thursday, Feb. 13, from 7 to 8:30 p.m., as the Seasons of Music Concert Series continues. The second in this four-part series features Debbie Duncan and her all-star trio who will perform a “Night of Love Songs and Surprises” in the MacMillan Auditorium. This evening would be a perfect “date night” on the eve of Valentine’s Day! Doors open at 6:45 p.m., and there will be a cash bar and light refreshments beginning at 6. $25member/$35 non-member. OR make it a very special evening by adding dinner with your valentine or best friends! Dinner and concert package of $50 per person includes a dinner buffet in the Arboretum Restaurant, featuring salad, chicken with wild rice and baked walleye, vegetables, cheesecake and more, served from 5:15 to 6:15 p.m.

Reserve at 952-443-1440 or online at arboretum.umn.edu/seasonsofmusic. aspx. Presented by Essential Sessions Studio and Wells Pianos.

PLANTS CONTAIN “LOVE POWER” Chocolate contains many plant-based, naturally occurring compounds that may simulate (and stimulate!) the feeling of love. To list just a few, tryptophan and serotonin create feelings of well-being and relaxation. Anandamide activates the brain’s pleasure receptors, caffeine creates alertness, and flavonols boost blood flow to key areas of the brain for a mild analgesic feeling. Learn, taste, and experience the “love power” of plants in the Arboretum Harvest Kitchen!

Chocolate: Journey From Bean to Bar, Saturday, Feb. 8, 9-11 a.m., $39/$49, includes Arboretum gate admission. Valentine’s Love Dinner Class, Thursday, Feb. 13, 6:30-8:30 p.m., $60 member/ $70 non-member, includes Arboretum gate admission. To register for either class: www.arboretum. umn.edu/cookingclasses.aspx or call (952) 443-1422.

february/march 2014

•

arboretum magazine

5

Maple Sap Collection Photo by Mark MacLennan

A VALENTINE’S DAY GIFT OF MEMBERSHIP! Explore the Arboretum in all Seasons

Purchase a gift membership for Valentine’s Day and enjoy thousands of flowers year round! Spend time together witnessing the splendor of 40,000 tulips and daffodils in the spring, the amazing palette of the gardens in the summer, the vibrant color-changing trees in the fall and cozy up on a bench with your sweetheart in the conservatory throughout the winter.

The first 30 memberships sold before February 28, 2014, will also receive 2 free VIP admission passes (a $24 value) to give to family and friends as a gift.

Visit www.arboretum.umn.edu/join.aspx or call 952-443-1440 to order your Valentine’s Day gift membership today!

MEMBERSHIP APPRECIATION DAY Saturday, February 15, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

We thank all our members for their support with a special day. Come for live music, hot chocolate and cider, snowshoeing with Hoigaard’s, a special offer in the restaurant and a chance to buy orchids from the tree on display in the Visitor Center. Please RSVP at 952-443-1440.

Sugarbush Pancake Brunch & Tours Shed your winter blahs and awaken to another glorious spring as the Arboretum collects sap from its sugarbush maple trees for delicious maple syrup. Enjoy all-you-can-eat pancakes drizzled with Arboretum maple syrup and learn how Arboretum syrup is made during the annual Sugarbush Pancake Brunch and Maple Syrup Tours, Saturday, March 22, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. You may even spot some of spring’s early blooms as you wander through the gardens.

Take the self-guided Maple Syrup Tour and discover how maple trees are tapped, how sap is collected and how it is processed into pure maple syrup, using traditions of Native Americans and settlers. You will see colorful blue bags – hopefully, brimming with sap – connected by a spider-web of tubing going from tree to tree. End your tour at the sugarhouse where you will see how the sticky sap is transformed into the scrumptious maple syrup you enjoy at the brunch.

According to Arboretum Gardener Rich DeVries, 111 gallons of pure maple syrup were collected in 2013 for use in this year’s brunch. The Maple Syrup Tours run continuously throughout the morning and are free with purchase of brunch tickets.

Tickets can be purchased at the Arboretum’s Oswald Visitor Center the day of the event and include gate admission. Advanced reservations and reserved seating are not available. Ticket prices $9 for Arboretum members, age 8 and above and $11.50 for non-members, age 8 and above: $6 for ages 4-7 (ages 3 and under eat free).

Read more: Put that maple syrup to good use with these cookbooks that go beyond just pancakes: “Farmstead Favorites Maple Syrup” $9.50, and “Modern Maple”

by Teresa Marrone, $16.95 – both available in the Gift Store (952-443-1439).

HOW A GARDEN CAN CHANGE THE WORLD A garden can be so much more than a collection of plants. Strategically planted gardens can inspire positive learning experiences, feed a community, boost health, grow relationships, and even stimulate a local economy. The Arboretum is proud to host opportunities for the public to grow through gardening.

Attend a conference and be empowered to plant your seeds of change.

Schoolyard Gardens Conference, Friday, Feb. 28, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., $60 Arboretum members/ $70 general registration, includes Arboretum gate admission. Urban Agriculture Summit: Digging Deeper: Taking Urban Agriculture to the Next Level – Friday & Saturday, March 7-8. Full summit details and registration: www.arboretum.umn.edu/2014UrbanAgSummit.aspx or call (952) 443-1422.

6

arboretum magazine

•

february/march 2014

Tiny Treasures Photo by Terra Rathai

Ski Trails Photo by Don Olson

TINY TREASURES – FAIRIES & GNOMES AT THE ARBORETUM

Arboretum Trails Reveal Winter’s Beauty Barbara DeGroot Public Relations Specialist Savor the solitary beauty of winter – and see the Arboretum in a whole new light– when you slap on a pair of cross-country skis or snowshoes and hit the trails that meander through our 1,100-plus acres.

The Arboretum boasts 8 miles of designated cross-country ski trails and an equal number of separate snowshoe trails. The ski trails accommodate a range of skill levels – from the relatively easy 2K Green Heron Trail (just one interesting downhill at the start) to the more difficult Ridge Trail with a few challenging hills.

Ski trails are groomed for classic skiing (in two tracks), not skate-skiing.

Skiing enthusiasts will be happy to learn that we have brought back a prairie trail. This one features two-way skiing for half the route. It traverses the BennettJohnson Prairie and meanders past shrub collections, the hedges and through oak and other tree collections on a gently rolling terrain.

Arboretum gardener and trail-grooming specialist Richard Gjertson claims his favorite ski trail is the Lost Pond Trail, a 1K fairly level trail through maple and basswood forests.

Whichever route you take, bring along a friend or two. There’s safety in numbers and the Arboretum does not have an emergency trail patrol. Maps available at the Visitor Center.

Snowshoe lovers have a variety of trail options, mostly in the western Arboretum grounds, through woodlands, wetlands and prairie. Snowshoe rentals available at the Visitor Center ($6 for 1st hour, $4 for each add’l. hour). Minimum age for rental is 7 years.

The white frost of winter will glisten in shades of pink, green, yellow and blue this February as fairies take over the Oswald Visitor Center Great Hall. From February 22 through March 23, miniature fairy gardens will be on display to warm the coldest of days and bring out the child in all of us. Prance among the “towering” trees filled with butterflies and other woodland creatures or sit on a bench and get lost in your own fairyland while reading one of the many fairy books available in the Gift Store. Take time this season to visit a place of imagination and make-believe!

Read More: “Gardening in Miniature” – Create your own tiny living world with the help of this book. Janit Calvo, $19.95, and “Fairy Gardening” – Inspiration for the fairy garden artist in each of us. Julie Bawden-Davis and Beverly Turner, $16.95, – both available in the Gift Store (952-443-1439).

Prefer something a little less strenuous? Take a Winter Wonders Bus ride on Three-Mile Drive (see the Sculpture Garden in snow), offered at noon and 1:30 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays, through April 27 ($3 per ticket available at Visitor Center). The drive is closed to other motorized vehicles through April 15.

However, pedestrians are welcome!

february/march 2014

•

arboretum magazine

7

CALENDAR-AT-A W INTER PROGR A MS & EV ENTS...

Saturday, Feb. 1

MILL CITY FARMERS MARKET RETURNS From 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, March 15, the Arboretum’s Great Hall will be transformed into a bustling marketplace of locally produced, quality food items. Visitors can shop for everything from pickles and artisan cheeses to freshly milled grains and flours. Typically located in the Mill City Museum train shed and on the Chicago Mall next to the Guthrie Theater and Spoonriver Restaurant in downtown Minneapolis, the market is making its third appearance at the Arboretum!

WEEKEND FAMILY FUN: PLANT PARTNERSHIPS Noon-4 p.m. (drop in), free with gate admission, Learning Center Fly south like the birds and Monarch butterflies into our tropical greenhouse.

Hunt for tropical flowers and fruit that help replenish these weary winter migrants.

Create a natural seed ornament to feed the hardy non-migrants outside your window and examine under a microscope parts of their diet found in nature.

ART AND THE DIGITAL WORLD OF PHOTOSHOP I (100-02-01-14) 10 a.m.-4 p.m., $95 member/$110 non-member, bundle I & II $150 member/ $180 non-member, Learning Center Explore digital media techniques with Carlyn Iverson, professional scientific illustrator for over 200 textbooks and publications. Using Photoshop and other tools, convert your own field sketch into an aesthetically and biologically accurate rendering of nature. Required materials: personal laptop and a digital drawing tablet.

THE SCIENCE OF GARDENING: MORE PLANTS FROM PLANTS—CUTTINGS (150-02-01-14) 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m., $38/$50, bundle all four $125/$172, Learning Center Expert horticulturist Jim Calkins will teach you how to propagate plants asexually (without seeds) using a variety of fascinating techniques. Then immediately put it into practice in the greenhouse and take home a personal “greenhouse-in-a-pot.”

7TH ANNUAL ARBORETUM PHOTOGRAPHERS SOCIETY SHOW & SALE Building hours, through April 4, free with gate admission, Oswald Visitor Center Restaurant Gallery Juried exhibit of artworks by members of the Arboretum Photographers Society.

ORCHID TREE EXHIBIT Building hours, through Feb. 14, free with gate admission, Oswald Visitor Center Experience a touch of the tropics at the Arboretum.

MINNESOTA MAGIC Building hours, through March 31, free with gate admission, Oswald Visitor Center Reedy Gallery Juried exhibit and sale of artworks by members of the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum.

ARBORETUM TRAVEL with Peter Olin, Arboretum Director Emeritus Reserve now for this life-changing 2014 trip: Magnificent India: Gardens, History, Culture: Oct. 17 – Nov. 1.

Delhi, Agra (Taj Mahal), Jaipur (Pink City), Jodhpur (Blue City), Udaipur (City of Lakes), Mumbai (hanging gardens, Elephanta Caves).

For Information: Anna Kamrow at Carlson Wagonlit Travel 763-852-8162 or akamrow@carlsonwagonlit.com or Peter Olin at 952-443-1412 or olinx002@umn.edu.

8

arboretum magazine

•

Sunday, Feb. 2 WEEKEND FAMILY FUN (See Feb. 1)

Tuesday, Feb. 4 PEA PODS FOR PRESCHOOLERS WINTER SERIES: WINTER WONDERLAND (975-02-04-14) 9:30-11 a.m., $100/$120, includes gate fee for child + adult, Learning Center The Pea Pods for Preschoolers package includes 10 Tuesdays through April 8 and provides the opportunity for you and your special little one to be enchanted by the plant world. Delight the young learner through planting, art, sensory and science discovery, music, story time, snack and outdoor/greenhouse adventures.

Thursday, Feb. 6 STORYTIME AT THE LIBRARY 10:30-11 a.m., free with gate admission, Andersen Horticultural Library Stories for the young and young-at-heart. Geared toward toddlers and preschoolers.

february/march 2014

To Register for Classes: call 952-443-1422 or visit arboretum.umn.edu/learn.aspx

Saturday, Feb. 8

Friday, Feb. 14

THE SCIENCE OF GARDENING: EVEN MORE PLANTS FROM PLANTS—GRAFTING (150-02-08-14) 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m., $38/$50, Learning Center In this class, you will learn about different grafting methods and why some grafts work and some don’t. You will then have the opportunity to immediately apply what you’ve learned in the greenhouse by practicing grafting techniques, taking home the results.

’I LOVE PLANTS’ HOME SCHOOL DAY (965-02-14-14) 12:30-2 p.m., $8/$10, includes adult admission for home school educator, Learning Center Join Gertrude Green in a puppet show to discover how important plants are to everyday life. Plant nasturtium seeds for a science experiment and enjoy making and tasting a naturally sweet Valentine’s Day treat called the Plant Part Parfait. Siblings are welcome but all participants should be registered. Suggested ages: 1st-2nd grade

CHOCOLATE: JOURNEY FROM BEAN TO BAR (800-02-08-14) 9-11 a.m., $39/$49, Learning Center Join Anna Bonavita, Ph.D., scientist from Chocolate Bonavita, as you taste cacao and chocolate in its various states, forms and qualities that most others have never experienced. Learn how we began and continue our love affair with chocolate.

Early registration is suggested.

Saturday, Feb. 15

WEEKEND FAMILY FUN (See Feb. 1)

Sunday, Feb. 9 WEEKEND FAMILY FUN (See Feb. 1)

Tuesday, Feb. 11 PEA PODS FOR PRESCHOOLERS: NATURE DETECTIVES (975-02-04-14) (See Feb. 4)

Wednesday, Feb. 12 TRADITIONAL MONTHLY TEA 2:30-4:00 p.m., $26/$29, Snyder Building Tea Room Enjoy a traditional tea of sweets, savories and English trifle, plus freshly baked scones, in the charming ambiance of the historic Tea Room. Call (612) 626-3951 for reservations.

THE SCIENCE OF GARDENING: IT’S ALL ABOUT THE SOIL (150-02-15-14) 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m., $38/$50, Learning Center Work with horticulturist and acclaimed Arboretum instructor Jim Calkins to learn the essentials of the earth in which you grow your plants. Learn how to enhance and manage your soil to grow better plants. Consider having your soil tested prior to class for additional insight. (See testing information online.)

WEEKEND FAMILY FUN (See Feb. 1) MEMBER APPRECIATION DAY 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

(See page 6) ORCHID SALE 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

(While supplies last)

Sunday, Feb. 16 YOGA IN THE GARDENS Noon, free with gate admission, Fireplace Room Get your Zen on while enjoying yoga at the Arboretum.

Sponsored by Life Time Fitness. Register at www.arboretum.umn. edu/yoga/aspx or call (952)443-1440.

WEEKEND FAMILY FUN (See Feb. 1)

Tuesday, Feb. 18 PEA PODS FOR PRESCHOOLERS: DINO-DELIGHTS (975-02-04-14) (See Feb. 4)

Thursday, Feb. 13

Thursday, Feb. 20

VALENTINES LOVE DINNER CLASS 2014 (800-02-13-14) 6:30-8:30 p.m., $60/$70, Learning Center Bring your loved one or sweetheart and indulge in delicious love-themed cuisine. Chef Jenny Breen, co-author of “Cooking Up the Good Life,” will dazzle you with a menu designed to stimulate your appetite and your senses. Wine tastes are paired with dinner courses. Early registration is suggested.

STORYTIME AT THE LIBRARY (See Feb. 6)

SEASONS OF MUSIC: DEBBIE DUNCAN AND HER ALL-STAR BAND 7-8:30 p.m., $25/$35, Oswald Visitor Center MacMillan Auditorium (Optional dinner & show package available – see page 5) Local award-winning music legend Debbie Duncan and her all-star trio will perform a night of romantic jazz ballads.

Saturday, Feb. 22 PRUNING ESSENTIALS FOR THE HEALTH OF YOUR TREES AND SHRUBS (150-02-22-14) 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m., $38/$50, Learning Center Learn the latest theories and practical applications for pruning from expert Arboretum landscape gardener Jeffrey Johnson.

Address issues of fruit production, tree longevity, maintenance, harvest and pesticides.

STORYTIME AT THE LIBRARY (See Feb. 6)

Above photo by Roger Pavelle

february/march 2014

•

arboretum magazine

9

CALENDAR-AT-A TINY TREASURES EXHIBIT 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. through March 23, free with gate admission, Oswald Visitor Center Fairies and Gnomes are making their way back to the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum in a delightful exhibit for all ages.

WEEKEND FAMILY FUN (See Feb. 1)

Sunday, Feb. 23

THE GREAT WEDDING GET-TOGETHER Create your Happily Ever After – Noon-3pm Arboretum Wedding Show which will feature ‘Real Life’ wedding fashion event, panel discussions to help with wedding planning, meet & greet with vendors, and more! $10 (includes gate admission). Four free gate admissions for each 2014 Arboretum booked wedding To register: www.arboretum.umn.edu/thegreatweddinggettogether.aspx

WEEKEND FAMILY FUN (See Feb. 1)

Tuesday, March 4

Tuesday, Feb. 25

PEA PODS FOR PRESCHOOLERS: THE SHAPE OF THINGS (975-02-04-14) (See Feb. 4)

PEA PODS FOR PRESCHOOLERS: SHADOWS FOR SPRING (975-02-04-14) (See Feb. 4)

Thursday, March 6

Thursday, Feb. 27

STORYTIME AT THE LIBRARY (See Feb. 6)

STORYTIME AT THE LIBRARY (See Feb. 6)

Friday, March 7

Friday, February 28

URBAN AGRICULTURE SUMMIT Digging Deeper: Taking Urban Agriculture to the Next Level (See page 6) Full summit details and registration: www.arboretum.umn.edu/2014UrbanAgSummit.aspx

2014 SCHOOLYARD GARDENS CONFERENCE: CULTIVATING THE FUTURE 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m., $60 members/$70 non-members, MacMillan Auditorium Create a schoolyard garden that works at every level in your community. Presentations will feature best practices from Minnesota school gardens that engage children in learning about food, nutrition, science, environment, the arts and more.

Saturday, March 1 WEEKEND FAMILY FUN: SPROUTS ALIVE! Noon-4 p.m. (drop-in), free with gate admission, Learning Center How do seeds turn into sprouts? Look in a microscope at shoots with baby leaves and roots. Prepare a sprout snack in the Harvest Kitchen, design seed pictures, and plant seeds to take home and watch as they sprout and grow.

GROWING GRAPES IN MINNESOTA (150-03-01-14) 10 a.m.-1 p.m., $40/$55, Horticultural Research Center Join John and Jenny Thull, vineyard keepers at the U of M’s Horticulture Research Center, where cold-climate grape history is made! Discover which grapes are best for eating and making wine, learn what to do about diseases and pests, and pruning techniques. Take home a cutting of a cold-hardy vine to plant next spring!

ART AND THE DIGITAL WORLD OF PHOTOSHOP II (100-03-01-14) 10 a.m.-4 p.m., $95/$110, bundle Digital Art I & II for $150/$180, Learning Center Join Carlyn Iverson, professional scientific illustrator for over 200 textbooks and publications, in this workshop which will delve deeper into Photoshop techniques. Required materials: personal laptop, digital drawing tablet and files from part I. Prerequisite: Digital World of Photoshop I or instructor permission.

Sunday, March 2 WEEKEND FAMILY FUN (See March 1)

10

arboretum magazine

•

february/march 2014

Saturday, March 8 SUSTAINABLE PERENNIALS (150-03-08-14) 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m., $38/$50, bundle all four for $125/$172, Learning Center Increase the diversity and beauty of your landscape with a sustainably designed perennial garden. Work with renowned horticulturist Julia Bohnen, who will share the wisdom of her extensive experience gardening with native plant species. She will show you her favorites, and help you choose the best plants for your setting.

WEEKEND FAMILY FUN (See March 1) URBAN AGRICULTURE SUMMIT (See March 7)

Sunday, March 9 WEEKEND FAMILY FUN (See March 1)

Tuesday, March 11 PEA PODS FOR PRESCHOOLERS: A WINTER WALK IN THE WOODS (975-02-04-14) (See Feb. 4)

Wednesday, March 12 TRADITIONAL MONTHLY TEA (See Feb. 12)

Thursday, March 13 AUTHENTIC IRISH DINNER FOR ST. PATRICK’S DAY (800-03-13-14) 6:30 – 8:30 p.m., $55/$70, includes Arboretum admission, Learning Center Celebrate an authentic Irish Dinner prepared for you by renowned Minnesota food scene writer and culinary instructor Beth Dooley.

Savor the bounty of the Emerald Isle with new friends around familystyle tables. Includes beer or wine pairings. See website for menu.

Above photo by Mark MacLennan

To Register for Classes: call 952-443-1422 or visit arboretum.umn.edu/learn.aspx STORYTIME AT THE LIBRARY (See Feb. 6)

Saturday, March 22

Friday, March 14

SUGARBUSH PANCAKE BRUNCH & TOURS 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

(See Page 6)

“MAPLE SYRUP TIME” HOME SCHOOL DAY (965-03-14-14) 1:15-2:30 p.m., $8/$10, includes adult admission for home school educator, Learning Center Find out what makes sugar maple sap sweet and how it is made into syrup. Hike into the sugarbush to tap a sugar maple tree.

See how sap is collected and transported to where it will be cooked. Siblings are welcome, but all participants should be registered. Suggested ages: 1st-6th grade WINTER BEER DINNER 6:30 p.m., $70 member/$75 non-member, Snyder Building Fireplace Room Enjoy a four-course, hearty meal with ideal beer pairings by Mantorville. Call (612)626-3951 for reservations.

Saturday, March 15 PREMIUM OLIVE OILS AND BALSAMIC VINEGARS – FLAVOR PROFILES & PAIRINGS (800-03-15-14) 9 – 11 a.m., $35/$45, includes Arboretum admission and all ingredients, Learning Center Become an olive oil and balsamic vinegar expert and create your own "signature vinaigrette." Learn health benefits and creative ways to use and taste these versatile ingredients. Supplies and take-home products provided by Wayzata Oil and Vinegar.

SUSTAINABLE TREES AND SHRUBS (150-03-15-14) 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m., $38/$50, bundle all four for $125/$172, Learning Center You will discuss the trees and shrubs you already have in your current landscape with horticulturist Julia Bohnen. Explore varieties that add dimension and beauty to your setting and learn how to use trees and shrubs effectively in sustainably designed plantings.

MILL CITY FARMERS MARKET 10 a.m.-1 p.m., free with gate admission, Oswald Visitor Center Great Hall Shop for locally produced, quality food items and more when the Mill City Farmers Market moves westward to the Arboretum for a day!

WELCOME SPRING SALE 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Visitor Center Arboretum Auxiliary’s spring sale of green and growing gift items.

WEEKEND FAMILY FUN (See March 1)

Sunday, March 16

SUSTAINABLE EDIBLE LANDSCAPE (150-03-22-14) 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m., $38/$50, bundle all four for $125/$172, Learning Center Instructor Emily Tepe, horticultural research associate at the U of M and author of “The Edible Landscape,” will show you how to achieve a glorious blending of fruit-bearing plants with vegetables, instead of being jammed into corners or stick-straight rows.

WELCOME SPRING SALE (See March 15) WEEKEND FAMILY FUN (See March 1)

Sunday, March 23 WEEKEND FAMILY FUN (See March 1)

Photo by Mark MacLennan

Tuesday, March 25 PEA PODS FOR PRESCHOOLERS: ROOTY TOOT FOR FRUITS AND ROOTS (975-02-04-14) (See Feb. 4)

Thursday, March 27 STORYTIME AT THE LIBRARY (See Feb. 6)

Friday, March 28 “PLANTS AND THEIR HABITATS” HOME SCHOOL DAY (965-03-28-14) 12:15-2:15 p.m., $8/$10, includes adult admission for home school educator, Learning Center Find out about the adaptations plants need to survive in the desert, tropical rainforest, and bog environments, and see living examples of each in the greenhouse. Make and take a terrarium filled with tropical rainforest plants. Siblings are welcome, but all participants should be registered. Suggested ages: 3rd-6th grade

Saturday, March 29

Thursday, March 20

SUSTAINABLE LAWNS AND TURF (150-03-29-14) 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m., $38/$50, bundle all four for $125/$172, Learning Center Learn about the benefits of creating a sustainable lawn with U of M horticulturist Sam Bauer, and leave the session with a variety of tools to implement environmentally sound practices. You will also discuss the best practical products to use for fertilizer, seed and pest control, and even touch on other possible ground covers.

STORYTIME AT THE LIBRARY (See Feb. 6)

WEEKEND FAMILY FUN (See March 1)

WEEKEND FAMILY FUN (See March 1)

Tuesday, March 18 PEA PODS FOR PRESCHOOLERS: LEAVE SOME STEMS FOR ME! (975-02-04-14) (See Feb. 4)

Sunday, March 30 WEEKEND FAMILY FUN (See March 1)

Above photo by Al Whitaker

february/march 2014

•

arboretum magazine

11

Telephone Directory...

General Information . . . . . . . . . 952-443-1400 Andersen Horticultural Library . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 952-443-1405 Auxiliary Event & Membership Info. . . . . . . . . . . . . 612-625-9865

3675 Arboretum Drive Chaska, Minnesota 55318-9613

A publication for members and friends of the Arboretum ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED

Ski Trail Conditions. . . . . . . . . . 612-625-9793 Contributions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 952-443-1432 Education. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 952-443-1422 Gift Store. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 952-443-1439 Facility Rentals. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 952-443-1411 Membership. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 952-443-1440 Memorials. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 952-443-1432 Volunteering. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 952-443-1437 Yard & Garden Help Desk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 952-443-1426 or

www.extension.umn.edu Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 952-443-2521 “Follow” us at www.twitter.com/mnarboretum “Like” us at www.facebook.com/mnarboretum

Website . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . arboretum.umn.edu

The University of Minnesota is an equal opportunity educator and employer. ©2013 Minnesota Landscape Arboretum.

Hours...

Grounds open 8 a.m.-sunset daily.

ART AT THE ARBORETUM

Oswald Visitor Center NOVEMBER-MARCH HOURS:

REEDY GALLERY

Mon.-Sat. 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Sun. 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

MINNESOTA MAGIC • Artistry of Arboretum Members Juried Exhibit and Sale through March 31

RESTAURANT GALLERY

Gift Store Mon.-Sat. 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Sun. 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

7TH ANNUAL ARBORETUM PHOTOGRAPHERS SOCIETY SHOW & SALE “Best of the Arboretum” • Through the lens of the Arboretum Photographers Society Through April 4

Restaurant

LIBRARY

9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Sun. 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Sunday Breakfast: 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

IMPRESSIONS OF NATURE • 3 Artists • Through March 31

Andersen

SAVE THE DATE

Mon.-Sat.

Horticultural Library (Snyder Building) Mon.-Fri. 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Sat. & Sun. 11 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Admission Fee Visitors: $12 for ages 13 and up Members: Free Children 12 & under: Free Arboretum memberships start at $49 Thursday Admission Free admission all day Thursdays Nov.-March

* Art and photography available for purchase in the Gift Store. A portion of the proceeds benefit the Arboretum.

SPRING FLORAL TREE April 5-May 2

EASTER BRUNCH Sunday, April 20: Seatings at 10:30 a.m. & 1 p.m., MacMillan Auditorium

SEASONS OF MUSIC CONCERT – 3RD IN THE SERIES Thursday, April 24 Pianist Ivan Konev and Minnesota Orchestra members – Spring music for piano and strings.

Cash bar and light refreshments at 6 p.m., doors open for seating at 6:45 p.m., ($25/$35)

BUD BREAK 5K Sunday, May 4: 9 a.m. start time (Same day registration and check-in: 8 a.m.)

MOTHER’S DAY BRUNCH Sunday, May 11: Seatings at 10:30 a.m. & 1 p.m., MacMillan Auditorium