KCG Sep21

The Kansas City

GARDENER September 2021 | kcgmag.com

Robust perennials ready for a

Fall Flaunt

of season-extending brilliant color

editor’s notes

The Kansas City

GARDENER Independently owned and operated since 1996 PUBLISHER Michael Cavanaugh EDITOR Elizabeth Cavanaugh CONTRIBUTORS Sean Holland Will Kirsch Lenora Larson Jason Mispagel Ken O’Dell Dennis Patton Tamra Reall Denise Sullivan Scott Woodbury DISTRIBUTION Publishers Delivery Solutions, Inc. IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO DISTRIBUTE the magazine at your place of business, please contact Mike Cavanaugh at mike@kcgmag.com 913-648-4728 NEED MORE MAGAZINES? mike@kcgmag.com 913-648-4728 CONTACT US P.O. Box 8725 Prairie Village, KS 66208 913-648-4728 ADVERTISING Mike Cavanaugh at mike@kcgmag.com 913-648-4728

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or as long as I can remember, the subject of caterpillars and butterflies has mystified me, and one that consistently seemed to generate more questions. Call me curious or simply unfamiliar, this is a topic where I lack confidence.

Are those caterpillars good ones or bad ones? Which cat matches which butterfly? Why are butterflies so hard to track with our eyes?

My knowledge about the topic is enough to carry on a brief conversation as it relates to gardening. If the discussion drifts towards etymology and taxonomy however, my eyes start to glaze over and my concentration is off the rails.

I have great respect and gratitude for experts like Lenora Larson, who are eager to share their mastery with anyone interested, including neophytes like me. Her monthly articles inspire my desire to learn more and do more in my garden for butterflies and caterpillars.

For example, I learned the importance of planting host plants in the garden. So early in the season, we planted fennel and parsley right in the middle of the perennial bed filled with butterfly nectar plants. To Mr. Gardener’s dismay, these were small starts, the size that causes his eyebrows to shift.

“What are your plans for those,” he says. Sharing my enthusiasm to of-

SUBSCRIPTION Elizabeth Cavanaugh elizabeth@kcgmag.com 913-648-4728 WEBSITE kcgmag.com

fer host plants for butterflies to lay eggs, he was on board.

Unfortunately, I’ve been sidelined for most of the season, due to osteoarthritis. With pain in both of my knees, I have been unable to do much at all. It’s been disappointing.

So it has been Mr. Gardener’s job to handle the watering–including the tiny herbs, that needed a bit of extra attention. And I must say, he took it all in stride.

In fact, the silver lining has been in Mr. Gardener’s exuberance.

“I’ve really enjoyed the garden this year, more than ever before.” What a lovely sentiment. Just hearing him say that made my heart joyful.

Hearing the news that we actually had cats on those now grown herbs was another joyful moment. I was positively over the moon! This was my first attempt, and it worked.

We counted the caterpillars and monitored them daily. With a little research I clarified that they were Swallowtail cats. Then, the unthinkable happened. One day, there were none. I was horrified! I went directly to my computer to send an email to Lenora.

“We had six swallowtail cats on Sunday. A couple were missing yesterday. And today there are NONE! What the heck?”

Based on the photo provided to Lenora, she identified the caterpil-

lar as Eastern Black Swallowtail.

As expected, she calmly explained all of the possibilities, relieving my swelling anxiety about my baby cats. The most effective was this, “Bet they went off to pupate and become butterflies.” I can live with that.

Even though my mobility is limited, I make time daily to sit in the garden, among all the flora and fauna that give life to garden and gardener alike. With any luck at all, I’ll see the Eastern Black Swallowtail butterfly repeating the cycle of cats in my garden.

I’ll see you in the garden!

In this issue

EDITORIAL Elizabeth Cavanaugh elizabeth@kcgmag.com 913-648-4728 HOW TO SUBSCRIBE See details on page 27.

Summer Sidelined and Cats

September 2021 | kcgmag.com 4 6 8 10 12 14 16

Ask the Experts Seasonal Bird Migration Kids Ask Dr. Bug Floats Like a Butterfly Indoor Gardening – Spice it Up Fall Flaunt of colorful perennials Plants on Your Plate – Eggplant

18 The Face of a Tree 20 Evergreen River Cane 22 September to Remember Tour 24 Garden Events 26 Garden Calendar 27 Subscribe 27 Hotlines

About the cover: Sneezeweed (Helenium autumnale) is bold in the fall garden. See additional perennial varieties that will color the autumn landscape beginning on page 14.

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September 2021 | kcgmag.com

© 2021, The Scotts Company, LLC. All rights reserved

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The Kansas City Gardener | October 2020

3

Ask the Experts BALD CYPRESS CONES Question: I have noticed these round balls on my bald cypress that I had not seen before. Is this a disease or some type of seed?

Answer: Those round balls, usually larger than a marble, on the tree are cones. Believe it not, bald cypress is a gymnosperm which means its seeds are enclosed in a cone. Bald cypress is a deciduous evergreen. Because of its seed structure, it is closely related to pines and their fruiting structure.

The cone starts out green and turns brown as the summer progresses. As it matures, you will begin to see the scales much like a pinecone. Eventually, it will start to open. The seeds are protected within the cone and released once they mature. Here’s an interesting fact, the tree gets the common name ‘bald’ cypress because the branches are bare during the winter. Bald branches are unlike other evergreen gymnosperms dropping their foliage.

OH MY PHLOX HAS POWDERY MILDEW Question: My phlox have grown wildly and multiplied over the years. This is the third year now I’m noticing this white mold on the leaves. This causes the bottom leaves to shrivel up and turn brown with the result of not having many blooms. A friend told me the problem was a lack of wind and being too close together. What do you think?

Answer: It sounds like a terrible case of powdery mildew on phlox. This is common. The friend was referring to improved air circulation, which helps the plant dry out from excess moisture. Mildew happens during moist, humid weather patterns. The theory is the better the air circulation, the less likely mildew will occur. It sounds good in theory but does not really work that way. Fungicide applications are an option but challenging as the moist

vide by leaving a few large logs or stumps in your garden to provide a home for the carpenter bees.

As a side note, be sure they are carpenter bees. Many confuse carpenter bees with bumblebees, also an exceptional native pollinator.

Carpenter bees have a shiny butt, while bumblebees have a hairy butt. Boy humor likes to say shiny butt instead of the correct term shiny abdomen. Hey, I am a guy.

Bald cypress cones.

PVC piping used as cover support.

Powdery mildew on phlox.

Carpenter bee.

weather pattern occurs over a long period of time, which means spraying repeatedly.

The best option is to plant more mildew-resistant tall garden phlox varieties. A white flowering variety to consider is ‘Mount Fuji’ or ‘David.’ If you desire pink or purple, check out ‘Nicky’ or ‘Richard Poore.’

A few years ago, the Chicago Botanical Garden did a study on mildew resistance in phlox. Search “Chicago Botanical Garden PhIox Trials” on the internet for more information on other less susceptible varieties for the garden.

bees with my friends. One person said they are destructive and suggested killing them. While another person said they are beneficial pollinators and not to kill them.

Who is correct?

Answer: Rarely does this happen, but both friends are correct.

Carpenter bees are one of our native pollinators. As they feed and move from plant to plant, they transfer pollen. Unfortunately, carpenter bees also bore holes into wooden structures, such as decks, and can become a pest. Their tunneling weakens structures. What are you to do?

I guess this question gets my “it depends” answer. If they are on your property as only pollinators, embrace these hard-working bees. If they are drilling holes in your structure, eliminate them before they cause irreparable damage.

You could consider bridging the di-

CARPENTER BEES, BENEFICIAL POLLINATORS OR NOT Question: I want to help our pollinators as I understand their benefits to our environment and my garden. I got into an interesting discussion about carpenter

DENNIS PATTON Horticulture Agent 4

September 2021 | kcgmag.com

HOW TO EXTEND GROWING SEASON Question: Heading into fall and winter, I am looking to extend the harvest from my vegetable garden longer into the year. Are there any tricks for getting a few more weeks out of the garden?

Answer: Extending the growing season is easy to do with a few practices. Place a covering over the planting to trap the warmth of the soil, resulting in plant growth into November or even December. Vegetables must be cold tolerant. Spinach, kale, and root crops like beets, carrots, and turnips work best in these conditions.

Cover the bed with either a spun poly sheeting, often called row cover, or plastic sheeting. Row cover can simply be laid over the area and pinned down so it doesn’t blow away. For the plastic sheeting, make a low tunnel from PVC piping or other bendable material used as supports. This is similar to building a little unheated greenhouse over the planting. The hoops are about 2 feet in height in the center and 3 feet or so wide. Again, it must be secured but also removable to access the harvest.

Plant your crops in September or early October and harvest until harsh winter conditions put an end to the season. I have heard reports of spinach surviving the winter and start picking again in late winter or early spring. Fresh garden spinach sounds pretty good with a warm bowl of soup in winter.

Dennis Patton is the horticulture agent for Johnson County K-State Research and Extension. For free information fact sheets, visit www.johnson.ksu.edu, or call the Extension office at 913-715-7000.

The Kansas City Gardener | September 2021

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Seasonal Migration Is Nature’s Gift to Birdwatchers

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ach spring millions of songbirds make the arduous journey from their wintering grounds in Central and South America to our backyards and parks here around Kansas City, and then north to their breeding grounds. Their timing and motives for this venture are simple: food becomes plentiful here in spring and less competition from other birds up north equals higher reproductive success, thus making the dangerous flight worthwhile. Towards the end of summer however, the breeding season wraps up for many species of migratory birds, and they heed the call to return south to their winter homes. Unlike the spring when all our feathery summer friends seem to show up around the same time, migration in the fall is oftentimes spread out, with each month bringing a whole new dynamic to the local park and backyard bird scene.

These changes are often first evident in late summer. By this time of year, the cycle of breeding, nesting, and nurturing young has been completed and birds begin to disperse from their breeding territories. For a brief period in late July and August, birdwatchers may be able to observe summer birds in their yard that may not have nested there, making for some fun and interesting sightings. In addition to this post-breeding dispersal, late summer is also when Ruby-throated Hummingbirds begin their southwardly migration. These showstoppers continue to cycle through the Kansas City area in good numbers until mid-September and a few may trickle in until late October, where they can be seen visiting feeders or native plants, gathering energy for the long journey ahead.

By late August, Warblers, which are some of the most sought-after songbirds, arrive. Though not show-

ing off their spring mating plumage and song skills, a glimpse of a Warbler is always a delight, even more so if he chooses to share his song.

The first wave of Warblers in Kansas City often includes American Redstarts, Canada Warblers, and Wilson’s Warblers, all of which can be found hopping in bushes, dense vegetation, and trees through the end of summer. By October, be on the lookout for bouquets of Nashville Warblers and Orange-crowned Warblers alighting in nearby parks

Yellow Warbler and possibly stopping at backyard feeders and birdbaths! October also brings the Yellow-rumped Warbler, here to stay for winter.

Just like the Yellow-rumped Warbler, many other winter birds will be back in early autumn.

WILL KIRSCH Birding Expert 6

September 2021 | kcgmag.com

Yellow-rumped Warbler Dark-eyed Juncos and White-throated Sparrows will once again dominate the ground game, pecking at Deluxe Blend Seed Mix from a ground or platform feeder. Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers will devour Peanut Sensation Suet Cake from a suet feeder. Redbreasted Nuthatches will search for Bark Butter, peanuts, and mealworms.

Pine Siskins may flock with American Goldfinches to munch on Finch Blend Seed Mix from a finch feeder.

As the upcoming weeks unfold, a variety of different birds may stop by area backyards, especially those yards with a water source. To aid in identification of these wondrous beauties, the Merlin Bird ID app is a good place to start, along with its partner app, eBird, which allows one to see where different bird species have been seen in the area and can be

used to track the migration pattern of a given population during a specific time frame. The Merlin ID app has both a photo and sound ID feature, perfect for identifying those migrating Warblers! For those interested in observing the spectacle of migration beyond their yard or neighborhood, there are a variety of migration “hotspots” in which birds congregate on their journey south.

Convocations of Bald Eagles and skeins of Snow Geese pass through Loess Bluffs in northwest Missouri. At Shawnee Mission Park in Lenexa Kansas, and Minor Park in south Kansas City, just about every species of Warbler that regularly visits the area can be found together at the same time. Clinton Lake, outside of Lawrence, Kansas is great spot to watch the colonies of Franklin’s Gulls that migrate through each October, as well as many species of sparrows.

Fall migration is one of the most interesting and exciting times for birdwatching! We encourage you to join a bird-walk (Wild Birds Unlimited of Leawood hosts regular bird-walks!), offer a variety of bird foods to attract a greater variety of migrating birds, and feature a source of fresh water to bring the joy of birdwatching right to your own backyard. Happy birding!

Wild Birds Unlimited Team Member, Will Kirsch is an avid birder, and is eager to share his expertise. You may reach him at the Leawood location, 11711 Roe Avenue, 913-491-4887.

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Kids Ask Dr. Bug

about the curious things found in the garden Why are butterfly wings colored with a powdery substance rather than just being like regular wings? Vera, 10 Butterflies and moths have wings covered in scales, rather than hair (like bats) or feathers (like birds). Scales are the powdery substance you feel if you touch one of these insects. Scales are useful for a few reasons. The scales make butterflies and moths slippery and might allow them to get away if something is trying to eat them.

The scales create color patterns on the wings for camouflage, deception, or attracting a mate. Color is created in two ways – pigments or structure. Pigment colors are created by substances that absorb certain light wavelengths and reflect others. Structural colors are metalliclooking, iridescent, colors created by light passing through multiple transparent scales. The light reflects more than once and intensifies the color. In addition to the colors you see, there may be ultraviolet patterns that other butterflies can see, but we can’t. Remarkably, some butterflies and moths do not have scales on their wings and have clear wings instead.

How do insects walk on water?

Hunter, 11 Insects can walk on water due to an amazing feature of water – water surface tension! Water surface tension is where the molecules at the surface of the water are closer together than in the rest of the body of water. This tension allows objects with a higher density than water, to float or walk on the surface.

You may have seen water striders – an insect that skates across the water’s surface where they live. Their long legs are hydrophobic, which means that they repel water. This, combined with the water’s surface tension and the water strider’s care-

Butterfly wings are covered in scales that are useful for a few reasons. fully distributed weight, keeps the bug on top of the water. This bug is also lined with special hair that protects it from getting wet, rather, from staying wet when waves or rain get on it. The water just rolls off, so the bug doesn’t get weighed down or pierce the surface tension.

Whirligig beetles are a water beetle that swims on the surface of the water, although they will dive underneath if they are alarmed. Their eyes rest just above and below the surface so they can see food and avoid predators.

A new beetle behavior was recently revealed – a beetle in Australia was found to walk upside down on the underside of the water’s surface (scan the QR code or go to https:// y o u t u . b e / B H Ya K6oizl8). Scientists

TAMRA REALL Horticulture Specialist 8

September 2021 | kcgmag.com

are looking into how this beetle can do this. They think it may have something to do with air bubbles that could flip the beetle to the upside-down position and pin it to the water’s underside surface. Scientists are also already thinking of new technologies that could be developed when they figure this out, such as robots that can monitor environmental conditions in the water.

How do insects breathe underwater? Brylen, 12 Unlike many animals, insects breathe oxygen through their abdomens, usually through holes called spiracles. Aquatic insects have adaptations of this to live in their environments. Many aquatic insects get air from the surface using breathing tubes called siphons, which are like straws. This is kind of like what you might see in car-

toons when people are hiding under the water for a long time. Some aquatic insects have gills, although these are usually found in juvenile (not adult) insects such as dragonflies. Other insects live on the water surface and dive underneath – carrying an air bubble with them.

In the example of the water strider above, special hairs cover the bug’s body and trap air next to it. If it accidentally goes underwater because of a wave or a raindrop, the tiny air bubbles keep the bug near the water surface and provide air to breathe.

Do you have questions for Dr. Bug? Send them to ReallT@Missouri.edu or bit.ly/KidsAskDrBug. Include your name and age. To help me learn what you learn from this column, please consider filling out this survey: bit.ly/ KidsAskDrBugSurvey. Thank you!

Dr. Tamra Reall (@MUExtBugN Garden) is the horticulture specialist for MU Extension in Jackson County.

For free, research-based gardening tips, call 816-833-TREE (8733), email mggkc.hotline@gmail.com, or visit www.extension2.missouri.edu.

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The Kansas City Gardener | September 2021

9

Floats Like a Butterfly

B

The massive wing volume is far more than is needed to fly. However, the hind wings are not used for flight and removing them does not affect a butterfly’s ability to fly. Scientists theorize that the hind wings are merely for show, making the butterfly even more flashy. This seems counterintuitive in a world

Cabbage Whites have an uneven tumbling flight style and are often seen swirling in groups of three.

LENORA LARSON Butterfly Maven 10

September 2021 | kcgmag.com

filled with hungry predators. However, when a predator catches a butterfly and discovers that the promise of a huge meal is a sham it may have learned that it’s not worth the energy to hunt them. Most predators consider the wings inedible and remove them before gulping down the diminutive body.

Summary Butterflies have an amazing array of flight capabilities. They are among the fastest flying insects but can also hover, glide or fly slowly.

They fly in short sprints or perform marathons of thousands of miles.

Butterflies rival dragonflies and hawk moths in their abilities; however, all must bow to the humble housefly as the true master of flight.

Photo by Lenora Larson.

The Mechanics of Flight Think of butterfly wings as sails that are flapped by the thorax muscles rather than actively flapping wings like bats and birds. Slowmotion photography demonstrates that when the thorax muscle contracts, the “four sails” are contorted into a figure eight pattern. When the muscle relaxes, the wings are pushed upward and forward by released air and the butterfly is propelled forward. Butterfly wings are proportionally huge with a much larger ratio of wing volume to body mass than any other flying insect.

All four wings function as giant rudders, which allows for quick, sharp turns. Monarchs can make a 90 degree turn in less than one body length.

Powerful thoracic muscles produce a butterfly’s flapping motion of flight, unlike birds that flap their wings to fly.

Flight Styles Experienced butterfly watchers can often identify a butterfly at a great distance because of its flight style. For instance, members of the Brushfoot Family like Red Admirals, Painted Ladies, Fritillaries and Monarchs elegantly flap and glide, but at different speeds and heights.

Swallowtails flap their wings more energetically with a shortened glide period. They also may characteristically flutter and half-hover as they nectar. Skippers flap their wings very quickly and some species even produce a whirring sound.

Poisonous butterflies do not need ultimate maneuverability and fly more directly as seen in the Pipevine Swallowtail, the most poisonous butterfly in North America. It rarely glides and has been dubbed the “Bat Butterfly” because its rapidly flapping wing movement resembles a bat. Anatomical differences in wing shape and attachment probably account for the different styles of flying.

Photo by Betsy Betros.

An Anatomy Lesson Like all insects, the butterfly’s body is divided into three segments, which have specific functions. The head is in charge of coordinating, seeing and eating. The middle section, the thorax, is equipped with powerful muscles that drive all locomotion by leg and by wing.

The abdomen holds the organs for digestion and procreation. Like all insects, the wings consist of two thin membranes of chitin, a protein related to our fingernails and hair. Insect wings have no nerves or blood supply, so they do not feel pain or bleed. The so-called veins are hollow air tubes, which the butterfly pumps full of air shortly after emerging from its chrysalis.

Photo by Lenora Larson.

utterflies seem to float aimlessly across your garden, but this flight pattern is suprisingly purposeful. Its unique design confounds predators, which are unable to predict the butterfly’s position and plan their attack. Compare this gentle maneuvering with birds which flap their wings up and down in order to move directly forward, making them an easy target for raptors.

Three Giant Swallowtails demonstrate flight movements including the flutter-hover when nectaring.

A Marais des Cygnes Master Gardener, Lenora is a member of the Idalia Butterfly Society and Kansas Native Plant Society. She gardens in the clay soil and cruel winds of Paola, KS. She may be contacted at lenora.longlips@gmail.com.

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11

Indoor Gardening: Spice It Up

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’d be remiss if I didn’t preface this article with some sort of warning label. Let’s go with “BEWARE: Growing peppers, of any type, may be highly addictive.” Between their versatility in the kitchen and what seems like an almost limitless number of varieties to explore, the obsession with hot (and not-so-hot) peppers is hard to avoid. You don’t have to look far to find a pepper for just about any taste. Seed companies like Bentley Seed Co., tend to stay well stocked with staple varieties like California Wonder Bells, Sweet Bananas and Early Jalapenos, while groups like Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds tend to stock more exotic fare such as Trinidad Scorpions, Habanada Sweet Peppers and Buena Mulatas.

Because they tend to remain fairly compact and prefer temperatures that are easy to maintain in your home or grow tent (65°F and 80°F), peppers happen to be wellsuited for indoor gardening. Even a windowsill in your office is enough space to grow a small pepper plant.

As indeterminate plants, they’ll continue producing new peppers for as long as they’re healthy and vigorous. Another alluring feature is that, regardless of the variety you choose, they generally have the same environmental needs, one exception being that hotter peppers can tolerate hotter temperatures (even in excess of 90°F).

While the light from a southfacing window may technically be enough to keep them alive, peppers prefer a much higher degree of light-intensity that includes, or is skewed towards, the red (3000 Kelvin) end of the color spectrum.

To help your plants reach their maximum potential, supplement the sunlight with artificial lighting from LEDs, T5 fluorescents or high intensity discharge lights. Avoid bulbs or lights that are specific to the cooler, blue (6400K) end of the color spectrum, as they won’t have

quite enough of the color temperatures necessary for fruiting.

Peppers also offer flexibility when growing alongside other types of plants because they’re dayneutral and produce flowers and fruit regardless of the number of consecutive “nighttime” hours. As long as they receive 12 to 20 hours of light per day (4 to 12 hours of dark), your peppers should continue to thrive. For example, if you’re growing lettuce that will bolt and begin producing seeds when it has more than 12 hours of light per day, you can grow your peppers under that same 12 hours of light and they’ll still produce – although likely at a slower rate than if they received 20 hours of light.

Regardless of your preferred growing methodology, peppers are a natural fit and are conducive to both soil and hydroponic (soil-less) mediums. The key is maintaining proper rates of fertilization depending on the stage of growth. Peppers require a fairly even macronutrient mix of Nitrogen, Potassium and Phosphorus during their early, leafy, vegetative stage. Once they begin to produce flowers, they’ll require significantly less Nitrogen and become more dependent on Phosphorous and Potassium. In fact, too much Nitrogen during this period can reduce the plant’s ability to produce flowers and fruit.

If you’re looking to get started growing peppers indoors, a small ebb and flow hydroponic system (also known as “fill and drain”) would be a fun and efficient way to grow a few different varieties simultaneously without creating much more work than growing a single plant in soil. The principal of ebb and flow is that plant roots are suspended in a nutrient-less medium such as rockwool or clay pebbles/ LECA (light expanded clay aggregate) and exposed to a nutrient/ water mix periodically by flooding the root-area. The use of a pump and

JASON MISPAGEL Indoor Gardener 12

September 2021 | kcgmag.com

timer automates the process, leaving the grower’s focus on ensuring the nutrient solution being fed to the plants contains the proper pH and level of fertilizer commensurate with the current stage of growth.

To build a basic system for three plants, you’ll need a reservoir (bucket, tote or tank) that holds at least five gallons, a small water pump, black poly tubing, an outlet timer,

Buena Mulata Hot Pepper an ebb and flow fitting kit, three plastic pots with drain holes at the bottom, clay pebbles and a plastic flood tray that’s approximately 2’ x 4’ with sides at least 6” tall.

Place the reservoir on the ground and fill it with your water/nutrient mix. Rest the plastic flood tray on a flat surface above the reservoir.

Be sure the stand or shelf it’s sitting on can support its full weight when filled with water and plants. Attach the ebb and flow fitting kit to the flood tray. These kits usually contain two components, a fitting used to fill the tray and a fitting used to drain it. Submerge the water pump in the reservoir, connecting it to the bottom of the “fill” fitting on the flood tray using black poly tubing.

Run black poly tubing down from

the bottom of the “drain” fitting to the reservoir so that the open end sets just above water level.

Fill each of the plastic pots with clay pebbles and place them in the empty flood tray. Plug in the outlet timer and set it to be in the “on” position for fifteen minutes every two hours. Now, plug the water pump into the outlet timer and your ebb and flow hydroponic system is operational! The water/nutrient mix from your reservoir will fill the flood tray every two hours, saturating the clay pebbles for fifteen minutes before draining back into the reservoir. The last step is to gently nestle rooted seedlings or cuttings of your favorite pepper varieties into each of the pots. I’d recommend starting your plants in rockwool cubes to minimize debris that may end up in your water from other types of rooting media.

Continue monitoring the reservoir level and nutrient mix throughout the life of the plant, emptying and cleaning the reservoir once every two weeks so algae, bacteria and fungus don’t form. A common one-part liquid nutrient to consider when starting out is the FloraNova series from General Hydroponics.

Following the dosing recommendations on the product, mix FloraNova Grow into your reservoir until the first flowers appear, then switch to using FloraNova Bloom which will promote fruiting.

Peppers only begin to form when flowers are pollinated, but fortunately, each flower contains everything necessary to pollinate itself. A gentle breeze from a fan or open window is more than enough to achieve pollination. If you want to increase the number of peppers produced on each plant, it never hurts to get the pollen moving by lightly tapping each flower.

Once you see the first pepper ripen, don’t be shy to pick it and enjoy! Rest assured, many more will be following in hot pursuit.

Jason Mispagel is the co-owner and operator of Year-Round Garden, a grower’s supply center serving both home and commercial customers since 2016. To contact Jason, call 816-216-6917 or jason@year-roundgarden.com.

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Nothing goes out of here in a box!

It’s Apple Season!

We service what we sell and more!

We also carry Lawn & Garden supplies, pet supplies and bird seed.

Northland Feed

4807 N. Brighton, KCMO • www.mowerpartskc.com 816-452-8393 • Mon.-Fri. 9-6 • Sat. 9-4

Serving the Northland for 40 years

For the best in Apples, Berries, Cider, Peaches, Pumpkins, Vegetables, Catering, Hayrides & Bluegrass Concerts sibleyorchards.net • 816-650-5535 • 3717 Buckner Tarsney Rd., Sibley, MO 64088

A Gardener’s Destination

TIME FOR FALL CLEAN-UP! Let us help you with your fall clean-up.

Now is the time for pruning, too.

Give us a call.

Welcome Fall with Mums!

Pansies and cool season bedding plants.

Fall is the perfect time to plant!

We have a large selection of beautiful trees and shrubs, elegant roses and perennials v Fertilome fertilizers and Fox Farms Products v Birdhouses and feeders v Wind chimes, pottery, urns, statuary, lanterns, wrought iron décor

112 E. Green St. • Clinton, MO 64735 • 660-885-3441 • Mon-Fri 8-6, Sat 8-4

www.greenleafkc.com

816.916.5171

Love ’em or hate ’em...

Squirrels are a part of bird feeding. Even if you don’t mind squirrels, you might prefer that they didn’t eat the seed you meant for your birds.

Aquatic Plants & Fish Available!

As the seasons change so does the ambiance of your water feature. Whether it is colorful blooms in the summer or breathtaking ice sculptures in the winter, with a FOUR seasons water feature you can enjoy paradise 365 days of the year!

After 27 years of being dedicated to transforming boring backyards into a one of a kind magical experience we have learned what makes a water garden paradise no matter the season. Let us create the backyard of your dreams this year!

Let us show you how to use specially-designed feeders, hardware solutions and even hot pepper bird foods to win the squirrel battles.

We back our water garden installations with a 5 year leak free guarantee!

913-837-3510

4385 W 247th St. Louisburg, KS Closed Mondays Open Tues-Fri 9-5 • Sat 9-4 www.swanswatergardens.com

11711 Roe Avenue (NE corner 119th and Roe) • 913-491-4887 Hours: Mon-Fri 10am-6pm; Sat 9am-5pm; Sun noon-4pm www.wbu.com/kansascity

Follow us at www.facebook.com/wbuleawoodks

BIRDSEED • FEEDERS • BIRDBATHS • OPTICS • GARDEN ACCENTS

The Kansas City Gardener | September 2021

13

Robust perennials ready for a

s

Fall Flaunt

of season-extending brilliant color

eason long color is probably the biggest challenge to the perennial gardener; perennials each have their own bloom season, and don’t bloom from spring to frost. The art and science of finding the perfect plant combination with staggered bloom times becomes more difficult when searching for ways to add fall color to the perennial bed. Our hot Midwest summers add to this challenge as heat, lack of water, heavy rains, and disease can all cause problems for plants that need to survive and grow for many months just to get the chance to bloom during autumn.

The most helpful way to encourage your garden to look healthy through the summer heat is to make sure plants receive adequate water.

Many fall plants recover well but if they go through periods of extra stress from lack of water, they can show this damage into the fall.

Overhead watering can also cause powdery mildew and foliage issues with fall bloomers. Gardeners also need to be wary of using misting lawn sprinklers around their perennial beds. These do not provide enough water to keep gardens healthy, but they are very useful in causing foliar diseases on plants!

Leadwort or Hardy Plumbago (Ceratostigma) grows into a lowmaintenance perennial groundcover, perfect for sunny areas that get a little afternoon shade. With proper watering they may do well in full sun. Plumbago blooms on and off all season with deep true-blue flowers, and gives a brilliant show of bright orange and red fall color.

Keep in mind that this species is a

Aster tataricus tall groundcover at 6-12 inches tall and will spread.

Sedum or Stonecrop is perfect for the pollinator garden. Hundreds of bees and butterflies will visit this late blooming perennial. Drought tolerant and heat-loving, sedum will thrive as a foliage plant through the heat of the summer with little care. During long periods of heat and drought, it helps to give them some water to keep them looking at their best. Now available in many different sizes and foliage colors, sedum is a great way to add texture to the garden all season, culminating in a beautiful fall bloom for the pollinators. Recommended varieties include ‘Autumn Joy’, ‘Autumn Fire’, ‘Night Embers’ and ‘Pride and Joy’.

Helenium brings a splash of warm color to the late-summer and early-fall perennial bed. The species is a Missouri native, commonly found along moist roadsides and meadows. Use care not to overhead water these, or plant them where

SEAN HOLLAND Perennials Manager 14

September 2021 | kcgmag.com

they get frequent moisture from lawn sprinklers, as they are susceptible to powdery mildew and rust. If problems arise, use an application of copper fungicide to keep disease at bay.

Echinacea is a very heat and drought tolerant native with hundreds of cultivars that range in color from purple to reds, whites, pinks, and oranges. Generally speaking, they bloom in the heat of the summer, but many gardeners have luck deadheading them and getting repeat blooming into fall. They may be used as a cutflower late in the season, cleaning up their appearance in the bed. Some choose to allow the last round of blooms dry on the plant, giving a food source to the birds who enjoy eating the thistle-like seeds. ‘Cheyenne Spirit’ is a seed variety that reportedly holds its color and does not revert back to the native purple as fast as others. It comes in multiple colors and is often available in a mixed pot in the fall, making it a great addition

to beds and even combo pots.

Asters are possibly one of the most popular fall bloomers. Shades of blue and purple make a nice cool contrast in beds with bright Helenium. The Kickin’ Aster series grows on a more compact, disease resistant, heavier blooming bush than the native species. Pollinators love to visit the numerous, brilliant blooms that it provides. Though disease resistant, like all Asters, it may develop a case of powdery mildew late in the summer. If this happens, an application of copper fungicide usually helps.

Sometimes, even for the most careful waterers, foliar disease does pop up. If it does, use a systemic or topical spray to keep foliar diseases at bay, especially if you consistently have problems each season. Keep in mind that using sprays during the heat of the day will cause damage.

Challenges aside, with a little care and some smart selections, any gardener can add fall bloomers to their perennial beds.

Sean Holland is Perennials Manager at Suburban Lawn & Garden, 135th and Wornall location, in Kansas City, Missouri. You may reach him at seanh@suburbanlg.com.

Echinacea SOMBRERO® Adobe Orange

Photo by Monrovia.

Photo by Provern Winners.

Leadwort

Photo by Walters Garden.

Sedum ‘Pride and Joy’ Photo by Walters Garden.

Sedum ‘Autumn Fire’

Triumph Aster

Photo by Walters Garden.

Helenium ‘Sahin’s Early Flowerer’

Photo by Walters Garden.

Photo by Walters Garden.

Photo by Walters Garden.

Sedum ‘Night Embers’ Photo by White Flower Farm.

Sedum ‘Autumn Joy’

Echinacea ‘Cheyenne Spirit’ Aster x frikartii ‘Mönch’

Photo by White Flower Farm.

Helenium autumnale Mariachi™ ‘Sombrero’ Photo by White Flower Farm.

Helenium autumnale Mariachi™ ‘Fuego’

The Kansas City Gardener | September 2021

Photo by White Flower Farm.

Leadwort in autumn when foliage turns

15

PLANTS ON YOUR PLATE Eggplant ing promise in prevention of heart disease. Because eggplant can be bitter, especially if over-mature, a key first step in preparation is salting to draw out the bitterness. After cubing or slicing, sprinkle pieces with salt and set on paper towels for at least 30 minutes. After the standing time, rinse with water and pat dry with paper towels before moving to the next step of preparation.

I have learned to enjoy many preparations of eggplant, such as eggplant parmesan, rollatini and grilled slices with olive oil and herbs. One of my favorites, however, allows me to enjoy eggplant with squash, peppers and tomatoes that are bursting from my garden.

If you’ve never tried eggplant, ratatouille is a great way to combine it with vegetables that you might be more familiar with. Enjoy!

Ratatouille MAKES 6 SERVINGS

E

ggplant is another one of those vegetables that I didn’t discover until well into adulthood. While it may not be a vegetable found in our family garden, it is a favorite of mine to choose at the local farmer’s market. While the bulbous purple variety is the most common, some eggplant varieties can also be long and slender with a purple, pink, white or black hue, as well as small white globe shapes that indeed resembles an egg. While we refer to eggplant as a vegetable, they are botanically a fruit since they grow from a flowering plant and contain seeds.

Eggplants are a member of the Solanaceae family, along with tomatoes, potatoes, and peppers. This family, also known as nightshade, may get a bad reputation due to a natural chemical called solanine, which is considered by some to contribute to inflammation. While there is not a consistent body of evidence that supports this theory, those with inflammatory conditions such as arthritis should monitor their symptoms after eating vegetables in this family.

Eggplant has a bit of an uncer-

tain origin, but historical consensus indicates that eggplant originated in India and China, who are still the top producing countries. As trade routes opened, it was transported to Europe, Africa and eventually to the United States by Spaniards in the 1800s. According to the USDA Agriculture Marketing Research Center, the top producing states of eggplant are Georgia, Florida, California, New Jersey, and New York.

When selecting eggplant, choose a product that is free from blemish with a smooth glossy skin that is firm and heavy for its size.

Eggplant is temperature sensitive and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five to seven days. Once cut, the flesh will turn brown very quickly. Eggplant can also be frozen for later use, most commonly in slices, for grilling or frying.

While some may have concerns about the potential inflammatory nature of eggplant, it is a good source of vitamins A and C, as well as folate, potassium, manganese, and dietary fiber, all at a very low calorie per serving. The deep purple color also makes it rich in anthocyanins, a phytonutrient show-

DENISE SULLIVAN Nutrition Ninja 16

September 2021 | kcgmag.com

INGREDIENTS 1 medium eggplant, cubed 1 teaspoon salt 1 medium zucchini, cubed 1 medium yellow squash, cubed 1 medium onion, diced 1 medium red bell pepper, diced 6 mushrooms, sliced 1 teaspoon minced garlic 1 tablespoon olive oil ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped 1 teaspoon fresh thyme 1 teaspoon fresh oregano 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar Wash hands, work surfaces and all vegetables prior to preparation. Preheat oven to 450 degrees. Sprinkle salt over eggplant in bowl and toss to combine. Set stand in colander for at least 30 minutes, then rinse with water and drain well on paper towels. Combine eggplant, squash, onions, peppers, mushrooms, and garlic in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to combine. Cover a large sheet pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil and spread vegetables into a single layer. Roast in oven for 15 minutes, stir vegetables and add cherry tomatoes and return to oven for 15 minutes. Remove from oven and top with herbs and balsamic vinegar and stir gently to combine.

NUTRITION INFORMATION Calories: 96, Total Fat: 5g, Saturated Fat: .7g, Sodium: 400mg, Carbohydrates: 12g, Fiber: 5g, Protein: 3g Recipe adapted from Seasonal and Simple, analyzed by verywellfit.com.

Denise Sullivan (@MUExtJacksonCo) is a Nutrition and Health Education Specialist for MU Extension in Jackson County. For research based nutrition and food safety information and programs, call 816-4825850 or visit https://extension2.missouri.edu/.tasty side dish for a late-summer picnic.

We’re not ready for fall ... but we do have all you need when the weather changes.

Our store carries a complete line of pond supplies, liners, nets, deicers, fishes, and fall fish food.

Now scheduling fall pond cleanings.

We serve the entire Kansas City metro!

Come see us, we want to meet you.

Check our website and Facebook for more information.

816-842-5012 • pondskc.com • 1557 Swift Ave., KCMO

It’s MUM season!

Bluejay

82 varieties • 4 sizes • 7 colors • multiple bloom times Tri-colored mums, Hanging Baskets, Fall annuals Pumpkins, gourds, corn shocks, straw bales and ton more fall décor!

LOCALLY GROWN PLANTS 2 convenient locations

We’re open, come on in!

LARGEST SELECTION

of wild bird supplies in the KC area, including bird seed, feeders, houses and hardware.

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800 E Walnut, Raymore, MO 64083 816-322-7333 Mon-Fri 9a-5p • Sat and Sun 9a-3p creekside-market.com

Family-owned & operated since 1990.

6979 WEST 75TH STREET OVERLAND PARK, KS

913•341•0700

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10860 W 271 St, Louisburg, KS 66053 913-837-2174 Mon-Fri 9a-5p • Sat 9a-3p • Sun 11a-2p louisburgnursery.com

The Kansas City Gardener | September 2021

17

The Face of a Tree a tribute to Mother Nature’s handiwork Photos by Ken O’Dell.

“T

here is something in a face and air and a peculiar grace, which boldest painters cannot trace.” Those were the words of English poet William Somerville (1675-1742). I imagine he was standing mesmerized as he looked deep into the face of a magnificent tree standing alone at the edge of a prairie in what would one day be an area called Kansas or Missouri. I too am charmed by the face of a tree.

Just as the roots are the heart of the tree, leaves are the face of a tree.

Holding the large leaf of a giant Catalpa tree or holding the strong, firm leaf of a young Burr Oak tree, we can see the face of the tree as we realize this leaf manufactures all of the food for this tree. It is one of Mother Natures miracles. The roots of the tree absorb moisture and nutrients and send it up through millions of tiny cells to the end of hundreds of branches and twigs then going through a leaf stem filled with many veins to many more veins in each leaf. Through the process of photosynthesis all leaves manufacture food and release excess oxygen into the air. This includes the leaves of grass, the leaves of weeds, the leaves of poison ivy, the leaves of a petunia, all leaves.

This process takes energy from sunlight, water and moisture sent up from the roots, carbon dioxide from the air mixing this together and make sufficient food for the tree to often grow into 50 foot giants in Kansas and Missouri and 200-foot giant Redwoods in the Pacific Northwest and every tree of every size in between.

If you really want to see this mind blowing site, take a one hour walk at the Overland Park Arboretum and walk on the south side of Wolf creek on lower bluff trail and see the hundreds of thousands of beautiful faces of the thousands of naturally planted Pawpaw trees that have been growing there for about

Faces of Ivy-leaved Maple

Faces of Red Buckeye

Faces of the great Hackberry tree

Faces of Trees at Linda Hall Library

Faces on Lower Bluff Trail 12,000 years, from seed and from sprouts which gives the pawpaws the famous pawpaw patch history.

As good fortune would have it I can sit on our back porch and see

KEN O’DELL Expert Plantsman 18

September 2021 | kcgmag.com

the faces of many 50’ to 60’ tall forest trees. On a breezy day the faces of these trees take on many dimensions and show a lovely exactness that is hard to duplicate or explain.

Early spring starts with tiny leaves breaking into the open air as they unfurl from the tight leaf bud that has been protecting them all winter. Sometimes they get caught in a late freeze and the cold weather slows them down but rarely kills them. Their tiny damaged faces the size of a penny continue to open and will eventually with warm weather, sun and moisture be fully opened and in some cases reach 8 inches as a long Burr Oak leaf or a tulip shaped medium green leaf of the Tulip Tree.

The face of a baby tree is as endearing to see as anything on planet Earth. The tiny leaf of the new born tree has just enough energy, derived from the seed from which it sprouted, to make its roots grow about 1/4” each day for four or five days. The tip of the tiny white root is as a thimble, forcing its way as it searches for moisture in the ground.

Without moisture, it will perish.

Mother Nature gives most trees the ability to produce numerous seeds each year and most of them will not germinate or survive into larger trees. If they did, the forest would be overcrowded. Many wild and native animals eat the seeds including birds, rodents, deers, opossums, foxes and squirrels. Seed not eaten has a slight chance of germinating and sprouting the first set of leaves, and most of these are also eaten by herbivores. Of the one tiny tree that survived this onslaught it must compete with other trees including its mother tree. Every tree that remains is miraculous.

I look at the face of the trees. I reach out and hold a small branch laden with leaves, exploring tops and undersides. With deep gratitude I say, “Thanks for what you do and how you do it.” No need to detail what is well-known. With a gentle breeze and rustling of the leaves I know the tree understands and expects me to do more for all living things.

Ken O’Dell is the Kansas City Regional Leader of the Kansas Native Plant Society. He is a long-time volunteer at the Overland Park Arboretum. You may reach him via email at Ken@springvalleynursery.com.

Missouri Wildflowers Nursery 9814 Pleasant Hill Rd Jefferson City MO 65109 www.mowildflowers.net mowldflrs@socket.net 573-496-3492

Meet us at one of these locations this fall in the KC area. Give us your order by Tuesday before a sale, or shop from our selection at the sale.

Backyard Bird Center 816-746-1113. 6212 NW Barry Road, KC MO 64154. Platte Land Trust Native Plant Sale. August 28, 10:00 am 12 noon Anita B. Gorman Cons. Discovery Center. 4750 Troost Ave. KC MO 64110. Missouri Prairie Foundation Native Plant Sale www.moprairie.org. September 18, 11 am - 1:30 pm Shawnee Indian Mission. 3403 West 53rd St, Fairway KS 66205 Shawnee Indian Mission Fall Festival & Native Plant Sale.

Info: shawneeindianmission.org. October 9, 10 am - 5 pm

The Nursery Is Open at 9814 Pleasant Hill RD, Jefferson City

65109.

MO Weekdays Year-Round: 9 am - 5 pm, Fall Weekends: August 28 - October 10, Saturdays: 9 am - 5 pm, Sundays Noon - 5

U-PICK FARM FUN FOR 20 YEARS! • Over 23,000 Mums in 52 Varieties, 7 colors, 3 bloom times!

• U-Pick Apples, Veggies, Sunflowers and Pumpkins • Friendly Farm Animals • Jumping Pillows and Plenty of Outside Play Area • Pumpkin Donuts and Cider Slushies

FAMILY SEASON PASSES AVAILABLE 177th and Holmes • 816.331.1067 www.johnsonfarms.net

The Kansas City Gardener | September 2021

19

Evergreen River Cane Photos by Scott Woodbury.

A

ny time of year when I startle a bird at work, it takes cover in a nearby patch of river cane. Once inside it disappears, because the cane is dense year-round with stems and leaves.

In this regard, it is like a shrub, though it is technically in the grass family and produces no wood. It also makes ideal, secluded nesting sites for a number of bird species including warblers.

Massive patches of river cane once grew commonly along riverbanks throughout the Ozarks. These patches, called canebrakes, are excellent at preventing erosion along creeks and rivers because they have an extensive and dense spreading root system that tolerates shortterm flooding. Unfortunately, most canebrakes are long-gone, having been severely grazed by livestock.

There are only three evergreen trees or shrubs native to Missouri that are readily available from native plant nurseries: shortleaf pine (Pinus echinatus), eastern red cedar (Juniperus virginiana), and river cane (Arundinaria gigantea), a native species of bamboo. In landscaping, eastern red cedar makes an impenetrable screen with branches and leaves growing nearly to the ground. Shortleaf pine is a reliable tall, slender, and rapidly growing tree that is long-lived. It deserves more attention from the landscape industry, and so does river cane, a very useful suckering bamboo that grows 7 to 10 feet high.

Though river cane suckers moderately to aggressively once established (1 to 2 years), it grows very densely in part sun or part shade, rendering it virtually weedfree. In full shade, it grows more openly with wider spaces between the stems. It also grows in full sun, although the leaves will be yellowish green.

It is useful grown as a screen or hedge; however, finding the right location is not always obvi-

Brad Johnson from Pittsburg, Kansas, digs a small river cane plant. ous. Plant river cane too close to a property line, and the next-door neighbor may become frustrated when it begins to sucker. Locate it too close to a walk or driveway and it will block the path when covered with snow or water. The best place to grow river cane is five feet away from a path and surrounded by a barrier. Concrete or asphalt make a good barrier as long as it is at least four feet wide. Mowed grass works too, because when cane suckers into turf, the mower cuts off new shoots that appear in late spring and summer, stopping their spread.

An alternative is to install a bamboo root barrier 24 inches into the ground and 2 to 3 inches above ground. Barriers can be installed with a trenching machine. Always call before you dig (dial 811 anywhere in the country) to mark all buried cables, gas, and water lines.

Another option is to plant river cane beneath mature black walnut trees. Here, it will spread more moderately and generate fewer suckers. When suckers are few, cutting them off and digging them up when they appear in July is an easy chore. If you wait until later in the season, sprouts root in, and are difficult to remove.

Because cane plants rarely flower and produce seed (every 30

SCOTT WOODBURY Horticulturist 20

September 2021 | kcgmag.com

Giant cane and golden ragwort

River cane under walnuts

River cane in winter

October fall color

to 40 years), they are propagated by division in early March. Dig small stems that appear at the edges of established patches and try not to loosen the soil ball when digging.

Spray the foliage with Wilt Pruf®, an anti-transpirant that prevents wilting and leaf drop. Transplant shock is significant with bamboo, so expect one to two full growing seasons for plants to fully recover and resume growth.

During a prescribed winter burn years ago, I discovered something unexpected and fun. When fire passed beneath a patch of cane, trapped air in the stems expanded and popped with a bang. I further discovered that fresh cut stem segments that encompass at least two nodes (the swollen parts of the

stem) can be gathered in advance and thrown on an outdoor camp fire.

Viola! Home-made fire crackers!

River cane has many past and current uses. Today, it is planted often for stream bank restoration. Young shoots and seeds are sometimes cooked and eaten. It was once used to construct strong wattle and daub buildings (mud is the daub; cane strips are the wattle). In the past, Native Americans used cane to make baskets, mats, pipe stems, arrow shafts, quivers, containers, rafts, blowguns, lashings, flutes, canteens, and fishing poles. And, according to John C. Hall (University of Alabama), Native Americans also burned cane in council fires…pop-pop-pop!

Happy gardening ya’ll!

Horticulturist Scott Woodbury is the Curator of the Whitmire Wildflower Garden at Shaw Nature Reserve in Gray Summit, MO, where he has worked with native plant propagation, design, and education for 30 years. He also is an advisor to the Missouri Prairie Foundation’s Grow Native! program. Find suppliers of native plants and seeds at www.grownative.org, Resource Guide.

Last Call for the Puddle Jumping Water Garden Tour

T

our # 6 is the grand finale of tours for the Greater KC Water Garden Society. It takes place Saturday, Sept. 11 and has 10 fabulous sites located North of the Missouri river. This tour has a wide variety of settings and styles of ponds, fountains, and pondless water features. Visit an upscale country get-away, Asian-inspired water garden, steep woodland hills with cascading waterfalls and streams, an historic concrete pond, a unique Koi Pond with a negative edge waterfall and some interesting berms and rock gardens that flow into a classic pond tucked into to a yard with a small footprint. And there is flower power everywhere – luscious native plants and wildflowers, and Lotus and water lilies in all their glory. This tour has something for everyone. The day tour runs from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., rain or shine.

The last night garden party is from 6 to 10 p.m. and is sponsored

by Good Earth Water Gardens.

Free to the public, these night

events present a unique opportunity for everyone to experience the magic and romance of water features after sundown. With night lighting, stacked urns with fire and water, fountains and three distinctly unique water features you will have plenty of ways to view their design esthetic and get your questions answered while enjoying the night ambience of fire and water.

Soft music will enhance your pleasure in this backyard paradise, while brats and burgers will stave off any hunger. Take this opportunity to drink in the demonstration water features built by Good Earth Water Gardens and enjoy our grand finale.

Single day $5 tickets are available at kcwatergardens.com, Eventbrite or at all 10 sites during the tour. Sites will be announced on Facebook and on our website. This is our only fundraiser.

To date, the Greater KC Water Garden Society has built 63 water features for schools and other non-profits.

FALL PERENNIAL SALE!

Family Owned Garden Center Offering: Houseplants • Annuals Perennials • Trees • Shrubs Grass Seed • Statuary

Fall Decorations and Specialty Pumpkins arriving weekly WE CARRY FOX FARM INDOOR GARDEN SUPPLIES

Fountains • Bulk Material 1001 S.W. US Hwy 40 Blue Springs, MO 64015

(816) 229-2684

KAW VALLEY FARM TOUR OCTOBER 2 & 3

Your source for

BEAUTIFUL PLANTS! Mums are in!

The Kaw Valley Farm Tour is an opportunity to visit local farms and learn about farm practices directly from the farmer.

Fresh weekly Missouri Amish Grown Produce

Kawvalleyfarmtour.org for more information and tickets.

Planters, pottery, cement pots Annuals, perennials, hanging pots Boxwoods, flowering bushes, Natives All organic, no chemicals, non-GMO herbs and vegetables

Koi Pond and Water Feature Designs

New Installations, Remodels

Make us a tradition Ask about our Landscape Design and Installation services.

436 W. 85th St., Kansas City, MO • office 816-444-7661 waldogreenhousekc@gmail.com facebook.com/waldogreenhousekc

Upgrades, Repairs and Maintenance Services Wendy Hix • 913.481.5416 Tate Foster • 913.406.6804 www.hixandsonaquatics.com

The Kansas City Gardener | September 2021

21

Sponsored by the Marais des Cygnes Master Gardeners Extension District

A September to Remember Miami County Garden Tour September 10 & 11, 9am-5pm

T

ake a ride through the beautiful countryside and join us for a day (or two) and experience these unique, intriguing gardens.

Stimulating, relaxing, and fun!

Six fabulous gardens: letters A-F correspond with the map, which is also included on each ticket.

A Whispering Elm Farm Melissa & Colin McDonald 27017 Waverly Rd, Paola, KS An inspirational biodynamic farm specializing in culinary and medicinal herbs and elderberries, pollinated with the help of their honeybees. View their elderberry orchard of 1,400 elderberry bushes. Peruse their herb gardens with signs designating traditional uses and benefits of the various herbs.

Check out their organic products, high tunnel and educational opportunities by Melissa, a master herbalist and naturopath.

B Campbell Highlands Stacie & Dave Campbell 30456 W 272nd St, Paola, KS Gardens developed with an eye for function and design. Learn about gardening on a slope, managing maintenance, erosion and water runoff. Enjoy the hilltop view with a glimpse of Hillsdale Lake, a beautiful waterfall and model train garden. Take a stroll through this unique, inviting paradise and experience all it has to offer. Sign up at this garden for a free drawing.

The winner will receive a one-night stay, plus dinner and breakfast for two for at Casa Somerset B&B. C Turtle Run Laraine & Allen Crawford 29320 Cedar Niles Rd, Paola, KS Diverse gardening rooms divide this property’s amazing ecosystems, a pesticide free wildlife habitat. Delight in the colorful shade plants, numerous annuals and trees

started in their greenhouse, pawpaw trees, a biblical garden. Pollinator host plants and natives claim the few sun filled spots. Allen creates unique wood products, which will also be for sale, from trees harvested on their property. Be on the lookout for the many turtles adorning these gardens, including the ornate box turtle, the Kansas state reptile.

D Blue Door Donna Cook 903 N Broadway, Louisburg, KS Beneath the canopy of towering trees, you will find a colorful sculpture gallery, a whimsical garden of quirky art created by this garden owner. Many beloved trees were planted 50 years ago providing abundant shade, but the shade has changed the gardening landscape.

This garden story is more about collecting, painting and welding, than actual digging and planting,

N 169

F E 69

AB

D Louisburg C Paola

22

September 2021 | kcgmag.com

although be sure to focus on identifying the numerous trees, perennial shrubs and annuals. Park at Captain Cook’s Treasure Chest.

E Hart’s Day Lilies/Thin Wallet Ranch Lois & Bill Hart 7460 W 255th St, Louisburg, KS Amazing, captivating gardens are carved out among 40 acres of native forest in a parklike setting.

Lois’s passion began with daylilies.

She’s a renowned collector, grower and breeder and has been honored to have a daylily named after her.

On this tour, you will learn about the bones of those enterprises, the impressive layout and labeling systems. Lois has broadened her gardens exponentially and has tried growing “most every perennial ever” over the years. Artworks include her own mosaics, metalworks and colorful balls. Impressive.

F Swan’s Water Gardens Diane & Kevin Swan 4385 W 247th St, Louisburg, KS Water is mesmerizing, relaxing, a gift of life. A water garden is an interactive system created around a body of water attracting wildlife.

Swan’s is a spectacular water garden destination. Learn about creating and maintaining water features, ponds and surrounding gardens— theirs a designated Wildlife Habitat. Experience ponds both big and small, gorgeous ”pondless” waterfalls, flowing streams and bubbling rock fountains. View the succulent wall, native plants, lavender field, village, and water turtle pond.

Information: TICKETS $15. Purchase at any garden–CASH OR CHECK ONLY. Good for both days. Rain or shine.

Start your tour at any garden. No pets or strollers please. For more information, visit www.facebook. com/mdcemg.edu or www.maraisdescygnes.ksu.edu.

Take home imaginative, creative, educational ideas, motivation and peace. Enjoy!

CLASSIC STATUARY

JOHNSON COUNTY TOPSOIL & LANDSCAPE MATERIALS, LLC TOPSOIL • GARDEN MIXES BULK MULCH • FLAGSTONE WALLSTONE • BOULDERS RIVER GRAVEL • WATER GARDEN ROCK

Fountains ; Planters Bird Baths ; Benches

913-681-2629

14935 Metcalf • Overland Park, KS 913-897-4700 www.classicstatuarykc.com

2 BLOCKS WEST OF US69 ON 199TH ST.

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www.missouriorganic.com The Kansas City Gardener | September 2021

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Garden Events Leavenworth County Master Gardeners Wed, Sept 8, 11am; at Riverfront Community Center, 123 Esplanade St, Leavenworth, KS 66048. Cheri Miller of Wyandotte County Conservation will give a presentation on Rain Barrels. The meeting is free. Visitors are welcome. For more information contact the Leavenworth County Extension office at 913-364-5700.

Fairy Gardens Wed, Sept 8, 7pm; at Basehor Community Library, 1400, 158th St, Basehor, KS 66007. Joyce Caratura, a Leavenworth County Master Gardener, will give a presentation on the delights of gardening in miniature. The meeting is free and open to the public. For more information contact the Leavenworth County Extension office at 913-364-5700.

TreeKeepers Sept 9-Oct 7, 6-8:30pm; Heartland Tree Alliance is offering a socially distanced in person learning opportunity five consecutive Thursdays with one hands-on workday Sat, Oct 2 9am-12pm. Great course for anyone wanting to learn more about shade and ornamental trees. Learn about soils, biology, selection, pruning, ID, and planting. Classroom and hands-on learning taught by various local experts.

Must register in advance, $50 fee. https:// tinyurl.com/TKFall21 or call Sarah 816561-1086.

Miami County Garden Tour Sept 10-11, 9am-5pm; Enjoy six unique country gardens, rain or shine. Purchase “A September to Remember” tickets at any garden, $15 (cash or check only) good for both days. Map will be available online, in this issue of KC Gardener, and on your ticket. Sponsored by K-State Research and Extension Master Gardeners, 913-294-4306. www.maraisdescygnes. ksu.edu, www.facebook.com/mdcemg.

WGS Puddle Jumping Water Garden Tour 2021 Tour # 6 is the grand finale of tours for the Greater KC Water Garden Society. It takes place Sat, Sept 11 and has 10 fabulous sites located North of the Missouri river. This tour has a wide variety of settings and styles of ponds, fountains, and pondless water features. The day tour runs from 9 to 5, rain, or shine. Single day $5 tickets are available at kcwatergardens. com, Eventbrite or at all 10 sites during the tour. Sites will be announced on Facebook and on our website. The last night garden party is from 6 to 10pm and is sponsored

by Good Earth Water Gardens. Free to the public, these night events present a unique opportunity for everyone to experience the magic and romance of water features after sundown.

Butterfly Garden Open House Sat, Sept 18, noon-3pm; at 500 Eisenhower Rd, Leavenworth, KS 66048. Leavenworth County Master Gardeners will host an open house at their Butterfly Garden.

Please join us as we follow the migra-

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September 2021 | kcgmag.com

tion of the Monarch Butterflies as they continue their journey to Mexico. Learn about our Monarch Waystation. Activities for children. If available, there will be opportunities to capture and tag Monarch Butterflies. For more information contact the Leavenworth County Extension office at 913-364-5700.

KC Cactus and Succulent Society The next club meeting will be Sunday, September 19, 1:30-4pm at a NEW LOCATION: the Trailside Center, 9901 Holmes Rd, Kansas City, MO. Visitors are welcome to attend. For more information see our website: www.kccactus.com or visit us on Facebook.

Sunflowers Mon, Sept 20, 4pm; at Lansing Community Library, 730 1st Terrace, Suite 1, Lansing KS 66043. The National Garden Bureau has designated 2021 as the “Year of the Sunflower!” Joy Kromer, a Leavenworth County Master Gardener, will present a program on those easy to grow, heat-tolerant and pest resistant beauties.

The meeting is free and open to the public.

For more information contact the Leavenworth County Extension office at 913364-5700.

Plant Sale and Native Flower Garden Tour Sat, Sept 25, 10am-2pm; at Project Living Proof, 917 Emanuel Cleaver Blvd, Kansas City, MO. Rain or shine! Invitation from the Master Gardeners of Greater Kansas City. The Project Living Proof garden is a partnership of the Metropolitan Energy Center and Master Gardeners of Greater Kansas City, demonstrating a green living landscape with the use of native plants and the production of fruits and vegetables for a local food pantry. Learn about native flowers of Missouri from a Master Gardener, visit our butterfly station and even capture a selfie in our custom photo booth.

Sunflowers Tues, Sept 28, 7pm; at Leavenworth Public Library, 417 Spruce St, Leavenworth, KS 66048. The National Garden Bureau has designated 2021 as the “Year of the Sunflower!” Joy Kromer, a Leavenworth County Master Gardener, will present a program on those easy to grow, heat-tolerant and pest resistant beauties. The meeting is free and open to the public. For more information contact the Leavenworth County Extension office at 913-364-5700.

Face masks and social distancing is required, 20 person limit. For latest protocol guidelines visit the library’s homepage at https://leavenworthpubliclibrary.org/updated-hours.

Promote plant sales, club meetings, classes, and other gardening events for FREE! Send details to: elizabeth@kcgmag.com.

Deadline for publishing in the October issue is September 5.

What’s Happening at Powell Gardens Pond Management Workshop September 9, 2021 | 6-8 p.m. $10 | Members receive free admission Ticket: https://25043p.blackbaudhosting.com/25043p/ tickets?tab=2&txobjid=52de8ceb-c0f9-4359-b6eb22c2578c9f0d

Presented in partnership with the Missouri Department of Conservation, this workshop will help you better manage your pond and its watershed. Learn about fish and plant management, aquatic plant identification and plant control, as well as how to avoid and control aquatic invasive species.

Please bring nuisance aquatic plants from your pond for MDC staff to identify and recommend control options. Registration is required by September 6, 2021.

Dog Days July 10, August 14 & September 11 | 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Included with general admission | Admission is free for members

Dog Days allows you to bring your dog(s) for a stroll through Powell Gardens*. Enjoy seasonal blooms and sunshine with your furry friend! Dogs must have current vaccinations and remain on a leash at all times. (Retractable leashes are not allowed.) Owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pooch. *Please note that marked areas of the Heartland Harvest Garden are inaccessible during Dog Days because they are dedicated to food production. Otherwise, dogs and their humans are free to explore our 175 acres.

Work & Learn: Fall Containers September 11, 2021 | 9 a.m. – noon $55 | Members receive 10% off Ticket: https://25043p.blackbaudhosting.com/25043p/ tickets?tab=2&txobjid=459a360f-a0f7-468d-82ea4d9fd1d2de02

Turn your tired summer containers into beautiful fall displays in this festive workshop. Each participant will design and plant a fiber pot container that can be displayed indoors or out. One complimentary adult beverage included during the workshop.

Harvest Days September 23 – October 3, 2021 Thursday-Sunday | 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. (Open until 8 p.m. on Friday)

This fall, Powell Gardens presents Harvest Days: Gather in the Gardens (September 23-October 3, Thursday-Sunday). Yurts on the East Lawn create outdoor “living rooms” where you can gather with your loved ones and enjoy the crisp autumn air, changing colors of the season, and the bounty of the Heartland Harvest Garden. Cozy up to a fire pit with a glass of wine, smores kit, and better conversation. Grab a hot apple cider and take a stroll through autumnal displays. Listen to live music while playing larger-than-life lawn games. Wander the quilt gardens, sample bites of the fall harvest, and enjoy the fall foliage as you settle in for shorter days and cooler weather.

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The Kansas City Gardener | September 2021

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GARDEN CALENDAR September list of what to do in the garden.

LAWNS

• Seed bluegrass or tall fescue lawns early in the month for best results.

• Fertilize bluegrass and tall fescue with high nitrogen fertilizer.

• Core aerate bluegrass and tall fescue to improve soil and reduce thatch layer.

• Mow turf at 2 to 3 inches.

• Sharpen lawn mower blades to give a clean cut.

• Check lawn mower and change oil and air filter.

• Continue to mow zoysia but do not fertilize or aerate this late in the season.

• Mulch or pick up any leaves to avoid turf shading.

FLOWERS

• Plant spring flowering bulbs.

• Dig, divide, or plant peonies.

• Divide overgrown perennials such as hostas.

• Remove spent flowers from perennials to

prevent reseeding.

• Improve soil by adding organic matter such as compost or peat moss.

• Purchase chrysanthemums for fall color.

• Remove missed weeds from the garden to reduce seeding.

VEGETABLES AND FRUITS

• Harvest fall vegetables and enjoy.

• Pick pumpkins and winter squash to store for fall and winter use.

• Plant a late fall crop of lettuce, spinach, and radishes.

• Remove weeds before they produce seeds.

• Clean out garden debris to reduce insect and disease problems.

• Till the soil and incorporate organic matter for next season.

• Take a soil test and add needed nutrients this fall or early next spring.

• Remove rotted fruits from around trees.

• Remove damaged limbs and branches from fruit trees.

• Fertilize strawberries and keep well watered to encourage flower bud formation.

TREES AND SHRUBS

• Plant new trees and shrubs.

• Replenish mulch layer.

• Prune dead, hazardous or broken limbs.

• Rake leaves and compost or use as mulch in the garden.

• Check tree stakes for damage to trunks.

Remove ones that have been in place for more than a year.

HOUSEPLANTS

• Move plants back indoors when temperatures drop into the low 60s.

• Clean and wash before moving indoors to reduce insects coming into the home.

• Reduce fertilization of houseplants as light levels decrease.

• Water as needed.

• Rotate plants for even light distribution.

MY GARDEN (Use this space to list additional tasks to accomplish in your garden.)

• • • •

Johnson County K-State Research and Extension recommends environmentally-friendly gardening practices. This starts by identifying and monitoring problems. Cultural practices and controls are the best approach for a healthy garden. If needed, use physical, biological or chemical controls. Always consider the least toxic approach first. Dennis Patton is the horticulture agent for Johnson County K-State Research and Extension. For free information fact sheets, visit www.johnson.ksu.edu, or call the Extension office at 913-715-7000.

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F

Properly Dispose Hazardous Products

ocused on environmental responsibility, gardeners are likely to recycle garden debris into the compost pile, or leave it for pickup at the curb. But what about garden products that are unused, outdated, and considered hazardous? If you’re cleaning out the garden shed or garage, and it’s time to dispose of old herbicides, fertilizers, stains and paints, what do you do with them?

There are regional household hazardous waste collection facilities and are available for residents to safely dispose their household hazardous waste. A list of these locations, along with directions and hours of operation, is available on the Mid-America Regional Council web site (http://www.marc.org/Environment/SolidWaste/HHW/hhwfacilities. htm). Here’s an abbreviated list for easy reference.

In Missouri: Kansas City: 4707 Deramus; 816-513-8400 Lee’s Summit: 2101 SE Hamblen Road; 816-969-1805 In Kansas: Wyandotte County: 2443 S. 88th Street; 913-573-5400 Olathe: 1420 S. Robinson; 913-971-9311 Johnson County: Mission; 913-715-6900 Leavenworth County: 24967 136th St., Leavenworth; 913-727-2858 Miami County: 327th Street and Hospital Drive; 913-294-4117 Many of these locations operate by appointment only, so be sure to give them a call first.

Thank you for properly disposing of hazardous materials and for protecting people, animals and landscapes of your community.

Hotlines for Gardeners Extension Master Gardeners are ready to answer your gardening questions.

CASS COUNTY

816-380-8494; Wed, 9am-noon

DOUGLAS COUNTY

785-843-7058; dgcogardenhotline@gmail.com; Mon, Wed, Fri, 1-4pm

GREATER KANSAS CITY MISSOURI AREA

816-833-8733 (TREE); Mon-Fri, 9am-noon; mggkc.hotline@gmail.com

JOHNSON COUNTY, KS

913-715-7050; Mon-Fri, 9am-4pm; garden.help@jocogov.org

Now Hiring for Fall

We are looking for friendly, enthusiastic people to fill positions at our Lenexa, Overland Park and So. Kansas City locations.

Cashiers Carryout Laborers Merchandising Horticulturist

Fax resume to 816-941-3838 Email resume to suburban@suburbanlg.com Apply in person at our Corporate office.

13635 Wyandotte // Kansas City, MO 64145 Questions? Contact Human Resources at 816-941-4700. suburbanlg.com // facebook.com/suburbanlg

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E-mail: Where did you pick up The Kansas City Gardener?

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913-299-9300; Mon, Wed, Fri, 9am-4pm

QUESTIONS ABOUT ROSES?

Ask a Rosarian; kcrosehelp@gmail.com; www.kansascityrosesociety.org

d the W ate Butterflies and Bee s Love These rlilies Spooky Plants

July

2015

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for the Octobe

ity with Grasses Beauty and Divers een Not Just for HallowCall 811 Orange and Black: Lemon rd of Digth Control BeforeBiYou Daylily: Beau Park eM ty for fy Weeds for Better Identi Decis ThanBu ion Time: ShouSeeded Lawn More a tte Dayrfl onth: Blue In the bird y Ask andExpe Feeding of Newly ld You Remove YourGaAsh rdenTree Conserva rts about weed Proper Carethe with tories control, oozin g sap and more Marvin Snyder

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913-364-5700; Leave a message. A Master Gardener will contact you.

GAR G A RENEDREN E R N D E D R A G ER Beyon The K T ty K an sa Cihe s C it y a n s a s C Th e Ka ns as ity A M on

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The Kansas City Gardener | September 2021

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September 2021 | kcgmag.com