‘THE SAGE’-Klein’s Online Newsletter—JULY 2015
Klein’s Floral & Greenhouses
3758 E. Washington Ave.
Madison, WI 53704
608/244-5661 or info@kleinsfloral.com
THIS MONTH’S HIGHLIGHTS:
Klein’s Sponsors Olbrich’s 2015 Home Garden Tour
Our ‘Mad Gardener’ Is Ready for Your Questions
Klein’s 7th Annual Most Beautiful Garden Contest
The Language of Flowers: A Novel by Vanessa Diffenbaugh
How to Maintain Your Container Garden
Homemade & Natural Insect Repellent Recipes
You Asked the Mad Gardener About a Not-so-Happy Orchid
Plant of the Month: Rose-of-Sharon
Our Very Favorite Recipes Using Dill
Product Spotlight: Water Fountains from Henri Studio
Notes from Rick’s Garden Journal—from June 2015
–Buffalo Gal is the Prettiest Girl I’ve Seen
–New Seed Sown Discoveries
—Health & Safety Tips for Gardeners
July in the Garden: A Planner
Gardening Events Around Town
Join Us on Twitter
Follow Us on Facebook
Join Klein’s Blooming Plant or Fresh Flower Club
Delivery Information
Related Resources and Websites
Plants Harmful to Kids and Pets
KLEIN’S 7TH ANNUAL MOST BEAUTIFUL GARDEN CONTEST
Think you have the Most Beautiful Garden? Perhaps all of that hard work and creativity can literally pay off by entering our Most Beautiful Garden Contest. We invite you to submit photographs along with our entry form to Klein’s via e-mail or snail mail by September 1. Winners are selected by our staff and will be announced on our website in early September. Prizes for 1st, 2nd and 3rd places include gift cards for a Klein’s shopping spree. We have a separate category for container gardens.
They say pictures say a thousand words and sometimes the most simple of designs says more than the most elaborate. Please visit our home page in the following weeks at www.kleinsfloral.com for details and entry information.
KLEIN’S IS A PROUD SPONSOR OF THE 2015 OLBRICH HOME GARDEN TOUR being held Friday, July 10 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturday, July 11 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tickets are $12 for Olbrich members and $14 for the general public. Advance tickets are available at Olbrich’s Growing Gifts Shop until July 9 and on July 10 & 11 at the tour center: Bock Community Garden starting @ 9:30 on Friday and 8:30 on Saturday.
Olbrich’s 2015 Home Garden Tour presents eight exceptional gardens that demonstrate the ethic of sustainability through a diversity of styles.
Included is the neighborhood of Middleton Hills–a model of new urbanism–where smaller, intimate lots are built around generous shared greenspaces. On the other end of the spectrum, large suburban lots and historic farm property showcase fruit orchards, organic vegetable gardens, backyard chickens, and beekeeping. Native plants and prairies, composting and permaculture techniques, and cleverly recycled materials are also featured.
Talk with homeowners, landscape designers, Master Gardener Volunteers, and Olbrich volunteers, and learn some of the techniques employed by these gardeners who create functional and beautiful spaces that are harmonious with nature. Visit www.olbrich.org for more information and a garden sneak preview.
Please note: Bock Community Garden does not have a number address.
Head north on Highland Way from Century Ave (Hwy M) – Highland Way is located between Allen Blvd and Valley Ridge Rd – look for yellow tour signage.
FOR NEIGHBORHOOD EVENTS OR GARDEN TOURS that you would like posted on our web site or in our monthly newsletters, please contact Rick at (608) 244-5661 or rick@kleinsfloral.com or Sue at sue@kleinsfloral.com. Please include all details, i.e. dates, locations, prices, brief description, etc. Our readership is ever-growing so this is a great opportunity for free advertising. Events must be garden related and must take place in the immediate Madison vicinity.
THE MAD GARDENER
“Madison’s Firsthand Source for Expert Gardening Advice”
Ask any of your gardening questions by e-mailing them to us at madgardener@kleinsfloral.com. Klein’s in-house Mad Gardener will e-mail you with an answer as promptly as we can. We’ve also posted a link to this e-mail address on our home page for your convenience. Your question might then appear in the “You Asked” feature of our monthly newsletter. If your question is the one selected for our monthly newsletter, you’ll receive a small gift from us at Klein’s. The Mad Gardener hopes to hear from you soon!
Sorry, we can only answer those questions pertaining to gardening in Southern Wisconsin and we reserve the right to leave correspondence unanswered at our discretion. Please allow 2-3 days for a response.
Please note that our Mad Gardener is not only an expert gardener, but can answer all of your indoor plant questions as well.
JULY STORE HOURS:
Monday thru Friday : 8:00-6:00
Saturday: 9:00-5:00
Sunday: 10:00-4:00
Open Saturday, July 4: 10:00-4:00
CALENDAR OF EVENTS:
Throughout July, visit Klein’s and check out our specials on annuals, vegetables, herbs, hanging baskets and containers. Specials and selection change weekly so give us a call for the most up-to-date information at (608) 244-5661 or toll free at 888-244-5661 or on our home page @www.kleinsfloral.com. We pride ourselves in having the best cared for plants in even the hottest weather and throughout the month we’ll continue to offer a full selection of annuals and perennials.
July 1–Full Moon
July 4–Independence Day. Special Store Hours: 10:00-4:00. Check out special savings on most remaining annuals, herbs, hanging baskets, containers, perennials and shrubs. Selection is excellent and quality remains top notch. Make Klein’s your first stop en route to any Fourth of July celebration you might have.
July 10 & 11—Olbrich Garden’s 2015 Home Garden Tour. See above for details or visit www.olbrich.org for more information.
July 31–Blue Moon (the second full moon in a month)
‘THE FLOWER SHOPPE’:
The Language of Flowers
By Vanessa Diffenbaugh
For a fantastic summer read, a Klein’s staff member has suggested the 2011 novel, The Language of Flowers by Vanessa Diffenbaugh. If you love both flowers and a good novel, you won’t be able to put this one down.
From the Random House website:
“The Language of Flowers, Vanessa Diffenbaugh’s mesmerizing, moving, and elegantly written debut novel, beautifully weaves past and present, creating a vivid portrait of an unforgettable young woman whose gift for flowers helps her change the lives of others even as she struggles to overcome her own troubled past.
The Victorian language of flowers was used to convey romantic expressions: honeysuckle for devotion, aster for patience, and red roses for love. But for Victoria Jones, it’s been more useful in communicating grief, mistrust, and solitude. After a childhood spent in the foster-care system, she is unable to get close to anybody, and her only connection to the world is through flowers and their meanings.
Now eighteen and emancipated from the system, Victoria has nowhere to go and sleeps in a public park, where she plants a small garden of her own. Soon a local florist discovers her talents, and Victoria realizes that she has a gift for helping others through the flowers she chooses for them. But a mysterious vendor at the flower market inspires her to question what’s been missing in her life. And when she’s forced to confront a painful secret from her past, she must decide whether it’s worth risking everything for a second chance at happiness.”
YOU ASKED THE MAD GARDENER . . .
My daughter gave me a beautiful orchid for Mother’s Day. I read up on the care and thought I was doing ok until the blooms fell off one of the plants. I have only watered it twice since Mother’s Day (now mid-June) since I heard they are easily overwatered. Any suggestions? There are two plants. One is completely naked. Only the stem remains. The other still has several blooms left.
Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks. Lisa
Hi Lisa,
It would be completely normal for your orchid to be losing its blossoms by now–though I think you may be underwatering it and this may be contributing to the flower drop. Twice in over a month is probably not enough.
I’m assuming you have a phalaenopsis or moth orchid. These are the most common available retail and the easiest to grow. If it is a moth orchid, you should allow the medium to get dry to the touch below the surface. When watering, take your orchid to a sink and water thoroughly; allowing the water to run through the bark/medium. Now allow your pot to drain completely before moving back to it’s decorative pot or saucer. Never allow your orchid to stand in water.
Moth orchids (on their own and not forced into bloom) bloom in late winter and early spring. Once done blooming, don’t cut back the flower stalk so long as the stalk remains green. Moth orchids oftentimes send out new blooming shoots off the old flower stalk. Only cut back the flower stalk if it browns and withers.
Moth orchids love to spend the summer outdoors in a shady spot if that is a possibility. Make sure to remove the decorative pot or saucer so water doesn’t pool.
Thanks for your question,
Klein’s Mad Gardener
madgardener@kleinsfloral.com
DID YOU KNOW. . .
. . . that your summer containers need daily attention in order to thrive and maintain peak performance into the fall?
How to Maintain Your Container Garden
By The National Gardening Association, Paul Simon and Charlie Nardozzi from Urban Gardening For Dummies
Container gardens are perfect for small urban gardens. Maintaining container-grown plants means keeping them well watered, fertilized, and pruned; and keeping pests at bay.
Containers in the city can heat up fast and furious in full sun. Even plants that are labeled as heat-loving can overheat on a hot summer day. Watering regularly helps keep them cool, but you also should consider the plant placement. Even a plant that needs full sun may benefit from some shade during the hottest part of the day.
If you’re planting container vegetables and annual flowers, situate them where they’ll get morning sun but have some protection from intense afternoon sun or set them in the filtered light of a high tree canopy.
How to fertilize in a container garden:
Most potting soils don’t contain enough nutrients to keep your plants growing to perfection all summer long. However, some potting soils have time-release fertilizers added to them that slowly release their nutrients in response to watering. These are probably the easiest potting soils for the urban gardener to use, as long as you’re okay with using the chemical fertilizer product included in the soil.
These slow-release granules last at least three months, with some hanging on up to nine months. Their effectiveness may be reduced by frequent watering in summer, so monitor your plants for signs of nutrient deficiency, such as yellowing leaves and stunted growth. You can also buy these slow release fertilizers and add them to potting soil yourself at planting time. Apply them again later in the season, according to instructions.
You can also use organic fertilizer products such as compost, fish emulsion, and cottonseed meal in your containers. The key to adding these fertilizers is to stick with it. Since the nutrients are lost through leaching due to frequent watering, and there’s a limited amount of soil mass to hold nutrients, you’ll need to apply these fertilizers as often as every few weeks to keep your plants growing strong.
Water-soluble granular fertilizers yield the quickest results. It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when applying. Fertilize every 10-14 days.
How to prune your container plants:
The beauty of most annual flowers is that they never stop flowering. However, if individual plants in a container become tired-looking, cut them back. They’ll regrow and begin flowering again.
If the plants are beyond rejuvenation, spruce up the planters with replacement annuals, choosing similar plants and colors to complement the remaining flowers. Or remove the whole planting and start over with a different theme. For an immediate full effect in your container, place plants close together.
Another way to keep annual flowers blooming is to deadhead the flowers after they finish blooming. Simply pinch off the dead flower. It not only cleans up the plant, it encourages it to form more flowers.
Some newer varieties of annual flowers are self-cleaning. This means they drop their dead flowers to the ground when blooming is done.
How to inspect container plants for pests:
Since your pots are elevated and in the city, you’d think you wouldn’t have to contend with pests. Amazingly enough, pests will find your plants, even in urban areas. Certainly, problems with deer or woodchucks may be minimal, but squirrels, raccoons, and mice all may find your plants.
Insect pests with winged adult stages such as cabbageworms, Japanese beetles, and whiteflies all can find your plants. Diseases such as powdery mildew and black spot are ubiquitous in the environment and likely to occur when the weather conditions are right.
Here are some tips to keep the pests away:
- Keep your plants healthy. This almost goes without saying, but a healthy plant is less likely to suffer from insect and disease attacks than a stressed one. Keep your plants well watered and fertilized all summer long.
- Keep watch. Check leaves, stems, and flowers regularly. You’ll be admiring your beautiful plantings daily anyway, so just take an extra minute to look under the leaves and peer closely at the stems. Often you’ll see the first signs of damage or young insects lurking there. Simply squish them to prevent any problems from taking hold.
- Cover them up. Create barriers to keep squirrels away or use floating row covers to prevent insects from laying eggs on your prized plants. If you can prevent problems from occurring, rather than trying to cure them once they happen, you’ll get the best from your container gardens.
- Be realistic. If your plants have been attacked and aren’t recovering or have disease or insect infestations that are spreading to other plants, be realistic. Consider ripping out those damaged plants. The beauty of containers is you can easily start over and over again. Why live through a rotten summer of ugly plants when it’s simpler to just start over?
Source: www.dummies.com
NOTES FROM MY GARDEN JOURNAL–Tips and Observations from My Own Garden by Rick Halbach.
ENTRY: JUNE 7, 2015 (Buffalo Gal is the Prettiest Girl I’ve Seen**)
With all of my roses now in peak bloom, Buffalo Gal (now called Foxy Pavement) remains my very favorite for shrub form and size, flower form, disease resistance and, above all, fragrance.
This super-hardy, medium-sized, rugosa-type shrub rose has been a part of my garden beds for well over a decade with no signs of letting up. The large, frilly pink blooms are among the first to open in my yard. The sweet rose fragrance reminds me of the wild roses that grew along the fence rows of the family farm and roadside ditches. The textured foliage is green and shiny and seldom bothered by the insect pests to which other roses are prone. As the years pass, the shrub forms a nice clump as new thick canes emerge around the parent plant.
Whenever customers at Klein’s ask me for the perfect rose for the greatest number of reasons, I always steer them toward Buffalo Gal.
**Lyric from the folk song ‘Buffalo Gals’ made most popular in Jimmy Stewart’s ‘It’s a Wonderful Life’.
ENTRY: JUNE 21, 2015 (New Seed Sown Discoveries)
Each year I enjoy trying out new (or new to me) plants for my beds and containers. Many of the newcomers are plants I start from seed in the basement in late winter and early spring. By starting plants from seed, I have far greater access to selection than I’d find at any garden center. My choices aren’t by a grower’s knowledge or a buyer’s whim, but rather by my own research and willingness to experiment. The following is a list of some of the new seed varieties I’m giving a try this summer.
From Select Seeds:
‘Phoenix Nasturtium’—Unique saw tooth petals in fiery shades of gold, orange and red, many marked with deeper hues, are exciting foundlings, for they once were featured in color lithography in the 1890s, near impossible to find since. We are overjoyed to offer them once again. Prolific and free flowering, the blooms are produced in abundance. Let its bushy stems spill from hanging baskets and window boxes or create a carpet of color in beds and borders.
‘Pan’ Sunflower (H. debilis subsp. cucumerifolius)—‘Pan’ flowers all summer until frost, producing loads of pure gold daisies with chocolate button centers. Well branched, it has a neat appearance throughout the season. One of our favorites in the trial garden this year. Self sows. This is a different species than other garden sunflowers.
‘New Zealand Purple’ Castor Bean—A Victorian favorite accent plant, often surrounded by caladiums and coleus. Vick’s 1904 Garden and Floral Guide listed Duchess of Edinburg with dark purple stems and leaves. Ours is a similar inky purple, the spiky seedpods just as dark as the leaves. A heat-lover, it does well in humidity, too.
‘Rebecca’ Morning Glory—This one should have been called Northern Lights, for its color-streaked petals and silvery aura in the center of each petal. A find from the Netherlands you’ll find only from us.
‘Cinnabar’ African Marigold—Forget those shortened varieties of marigolds edging the local gas station entry; this tall, bushy old-fashioned form has cinnamon red blossoms with gold edges that bloom midsummer to frost, and handsome dark green foliage.
From Jung’s:
‘Berry Velour’ Easy Wave Petunia—Rosy red blooms with orange undertones. Ideal for containers with a compact, mounding habit.
‘Señora’ Zinnia—A sizzling new color for zinnias. The 4 inch double blooms are a luscious shade of salmon pink. Free-flowering, heat-tolerant plants are sure to command attention in any flower border. Grows 36 inches tall.
‘African Sunset’ Petunia—An AAS Winner! A new ‘designer color’ that packs a visual punch. There is no other seed-grown multiflora petunia, or any other petunia for that matter, with this distinctive color. The 2″ flowers are shades of intense orange that bring a “WOW” factor to sunny garden beds, patio pots, hanging baskets and window boxes.
‘Starship Scarlet’ Lobelia—Enjoy the color of this red-hot Lobelia in beds and containers all summer long. A magnet for hummingbirds, these bright red blooms are sure to catch your eye, too. Uniform plants produce flowers 1 to 2 weeks earlier than other Lobelia of this type and won’t stretch and become ‘leggy’. Blooms the first year from seed.
From Johnny’s Selected Seeds:
‘Elenora’ Basil—New! Intermediate resistance to downy mildew. Slightly cupped to flat, 3″ leaves with a somewhat spicier flavor than traditional pesto types. The leaf shape and more open habit make this variety less susceptible to basil downy mildew pressure than typical pesto types.
‘Tall Blue Planet’ Ageratum—Tall, upright, sturdy stems. Tight blue flower clusters. Plant to attract bees and butterflies to your garden or to use as a classic filler for mixed bouquets. Ht. 24-30”.
‘Beatrice’ Eggplant—High yields of round, bright violet, Italian-type fruits. Similar in shape, flavor and texture to Rosa Bianca. Earlier maturity, darker fruit color, and just slightly smaller (4-6″ long by 4-5″ diameter).
From Seed Savers Exchange:
‘Florida High Bush’ Eggplant—Standard market variety bred in Florida in the 1940s for the commercial trade. Vigorous, upright, well branched plants bear continuously throughout the season. Large purple-black pear-shaped fruits with white flesh are held high off the ground. Disease and drought resistant.
‘Halbhoher Gruner Krauser’ Kale—Vibrant light green, finely curled leaves on robust 18″ plants. This North German staple is tasty eaten fresh, and can be harvested well into the early winter.
ENTRY: JUNE 21, 2015 (Health & Safety Tips for Gardeners)
Because I’m in the garden every day during the summer, health and safety are of prime concern. The following comes from the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) website.
Gardening Health and Safety Tips
Gardening can be a great way to enjoy the outdoors, get physical activity, beautify the community, and grow nutritious fruits and vegetables. If you are a beginner or expert gardener, health and safety should always be a priority.
Below are some tips to help keep you safe and healthy so that you can enjoy the beauty and bounty gardening can bring.
- Dress to protect:
Gear up to protect yourself from lawn and garden pests, harmful chemicals, sharp or motorized equipment, insects, and harmful rays of too much sun.
—Wear safety goggles, sturdy shoes, and long pants to prevent injury when using power tools and equipment.
—Protect your hearing when using machinery. If you have to raise your voice to talk to someone who is an arm’s length away, the noise can be potentially harmful to your hearing.
—Wear gloves to lower the risk for skin irritations, cuts, and certain contaminants.
—Use insect repellent containing DEET. Protect yourself from diseases caused by mosquitoes and ticks. Wear long-sleeved shirts, and pants tucked in your socks. You may also want to wear high rubber boots since ticks are usually located close to the ground.
—Lower your risk for sunburn and skin cancer. Wear long sleeves, wide-brimmed hats, sun shades, and sunscreen with sun protective factor (SPF) 15 or higher.
- Put safety first:
Powered and unpowered tools and equipment can cause serious injury. Limit distractions, use chemicals and equipment properly, and be aware of hazards to lower your risk for injury.
—Follow instructions and warning labels on chemicals and lawn and garden equipment.
—Make sure equipment is working properly.
—Sharpen tools carefully.
—Keep harmful chemicals, tools, and equipment out of children’s reach.
- Know your limits in the heat:
Even being out for short periods of time in high temperatures can cause serious health problems. Monitor your activities and time in the sun to lower your risk for heat-related illness.
—If you’re outside in hot weather for most of the day you’ll need to make an effort to drink more fluids.
—Avoid drinking liquids that contain alcohol or large amounts of sugar, especially in the heat.
—Take breaks often. Try to rest in shaded areas so that your body’s thermostat will have a chance to recover. Stop working if you experience breathlessness or muscle soreness.
—Pay attention to signs of heat-related illness, including extremely high body temperature, headache, rapid pulse, dizziness, nausea, confusion, or unconsciousness.
—Watch people who are at higher risk for heat-related illness, including infants and children up to four years of age; people 65 years of age or older; people who are overweight; people who push themselves too hard during work or exercise; and people who are physically ill or who take certain medications (i.e. for depression, insomnia, or poor circulation).
—Eat healthy foods to help keep you energized.
- Tips for persons with disabilities and physical activity:
Talk to your health care provider if you have physical, mental, or environmental concerns that may impair your ability to work in the garden safely.
—If you have arthritis, use tools that are easy to grasp and that fit your ability. Research shows that 2½ hours per week of moderate physical activity can give you more energy and can help relieve arthritis pain and stiffness.
—If you are taking medications that may make you drowsy or impair your judgment or reaction time, don’t operate machinery, climb ladders, or do activities that may increase your risk for injury.
—Listen to your body. Monitor your heart rate, level of fatigue, and physical discomfort.
—Call 911 if you get injured, experience chest and arm pain, dizziness, lightheadedness, or heat-related illness.
- Enjoy the benefits of physical activity:
Gardening is an excellent way to get physical activity. Active people are less likely than inactive people to be obese or have high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, osteoporosis, heart disease, stroke, depression, colon cancer, and premature death.
—Be active for at least 2½ hours a week. Include activities that raise your breathing and heart rates and that strengthen your muscles. Help kids and teens be active for at least 1 hour a day.
—If you have been inactive, start out with just a few minutes of physical activity each day. Gradually build up time and intensity.
—Vary your gardening activities to keep your interest and to broaden the range of benefits.
- Get vaccinated:
Vaccinations can prevent many diseases and save lives. All adults should get a tetanus vaccination every 10 years. Tetanus lives in the soil and enters the body through breaks in the skin. Because gardeners use sharp tools, dig in the dirt, and handle plants with sharp points, they are particularly prone to tetanus infections.
—Before you start gardening this season, make sure your tetanus/diphtheria (Td) vaccination is up to date.
—Ask your health care provider if you need any other vaccinations.
KLEIN’S RECIPES OF THE MONTH—These are a selection of relatively simple recipes chosen by our staff. New recipes appear monthly. Enjoy!!
Although the place of origin of dill is unknown, it is believed to have grown wild all over the European continent. Today, while dill is highly regarded in some European cuisine, it is greatly disliked by others. Its name is derived from the old Norse word dilla, meaning ‘to lull’. Indeed, the herb has carminative qualities as well as other medicinal uses, such as aid for digestion.
Dill is a wonderful herb, fresh, dried or as seed. It has a unique, yet mild flavor for enhancing a wide variety of dishes. Dill is probably best known for its role in the popular flavor of the dill pickle.
Dill is easy to grow from seed in the garden and will often self-sow for a constant supply over the years. Dill is a member of the carrot family. Members of the carrot family (dill, parsley, fennel, Queen Anne’s lace) are host plants for swallowtail caterpillars.
For the most part, dill is used alone to capture its unique flavor. It is rarely blended with other herbs such as basil and oregano.
Chopped fresh or dried dill is used in summer pasta salads, tuna salad and cucumber salad. It is oftentimes the herb of choice for grilled salmon and/or its accompanying condiments. Dill is also used extensively in salad dressings. Dill is delicious with melted butter on cooked potatoes and vegetables.
Source: From Asparagus to Zucchini: A Guide to Farm-Fresh, Seasonal Produce
LEMON-DILL GREEN BEANS—Source: www.crumbblog.com
1 lb green beans, trimmed
2 tbsp good-quality olive oil
2 tbsp lemon juice
3 cloves garlic, very finely minced
1 shallot, finely minced
Salt to taste
1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion
1/4 cup thinly sliced red pepper
1/4 cup roughly chopped fresh dill
In a large pot of boiling salted water, blanch the beans for about 5 minutes, or until just barely tender-crisp. Immediately plunge into an ice-water bath to stop the cooking process, and set aside.
While the beans are cooking, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic and shallots in a small bowl until combined. Add salt to taste.
In a large bowl, combine the beans with red onion, red pepper and dill. Pour the prepared dressing in, and toss to coat. Let stand for at least 20 minutes before serving (but preferably overnight) so that the flavors have some time to mellow and combine. Serve cold or at room temperature.
DILL CUCUMBER SALAD—Source: recipes.sparkpeople.com
3 cups peeled, sliced cucumbers
4 medium scallions, sliced
3 med. stalks celery, sliced
2 cloves garlic, chopped
2 t. extra virgin olive oil
1/4 C. white balsamic vinegar
3 T. prepared ranch salad dressing
2 sprigs fresh dill, chopped lightly
Salt & pepper to taste
Mix all ingredients and serve. Serves 4.
CHILLED SPICY TOMATO SOUP—easy, refreshing-with-a-bite . . . and 100% fat-free! From The Enchanted Broccoli Forest by Mollie Katzen.
2 medium-sized (3” diameter) ripe tomatoes
4 cups tomato juice
2 tsp. Dijon mustard
1 tsp. horseradish
2 TBS. Worcestershire sauce
10-15 drops Tabasco to taste
1 stal celery, finely minced
2 TBS. minced fresh dill (2 tsp. dried)
1-2 finely minced green onions
fresh ground pepper
Bring a medium-sized saucepanful of water to a boil, then lower the heat to a simmer. Core the tomatoes and drop them in the water for about 20 seconds. Remove and pull off the skins. Cut open and remove the seeds. Mince the remaining pulp and set aside. In a bowl, whisk together the juice, mustard, horseradish, Worcestershire sauce and Tabasco. Stir in the rest of the ingredients (including the tomatoes) and season with black pepper. Cover tightly and chill. Serves 4-5.
GRILLED SALMON WITH CITRUS DILL BUTTER—Fresh dill and tangy lemon join in this luscious, quick-cooking entree. Source: pillsbury.com
2 tablespoons butter, softened
1 teaspoon chopped fresh chives
1 teaspoon chopped fresh dill
1/4 teaspoon grated lemon peel
1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
1/8 teaspoon salt
2 (4-oz.) salmon fillets
2 sprigs fresh dill
Heat grill. In small bowl, combine all ingredients except salmon and dill sprigs; mix until well blended. When ready to grill, spread 1/2 teaspoon butter mixture over each salmon fillet. Place, skin side up, on gas grill over medium heat or on charcoal grill 4 to 6 inches from medium coals. Cook 3 minutes. Turn skin side down; spread 1/2 teaspoon butter mixture over top of salmon. Cook 8 to 10 minutes or until fish flakes easily with fork. To serve, spread remaining butter mixture over salmon fillets. Garnish with dill sprigs.
SPINACH STRAWBERRY SALAD–Talk about fresh spring flavors! This favorite of adults and kids alike is from Asparagus to Zucchini: A Guide to Farm-Fresh Seasonal Produce.
2 TBS. sesame seeds, toasted and set aside
4 TBS. sugar
4 TBS. red wine vinegar
Minced garlic to taste
1 tsp. dry mustard
coarse salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup vegetable oil (not olive)
2 bags of spinach
2+ cups sliced strawberries
1 tsp. dried dill
Combine the sugar, vinegar, mustard, garlic, salt and pepper in a bowl. Whisk in the oil in a thin stream. Toss together with the spinach, berries, dill and sesame seeds. Serves 8.
NATURAL NEWS–
A Collection of Homemade & Natural Insect Repellent Recipes
The bugs are here! We’ve compiled for you a list of some excellent homemade repellents made from readily available ingredients. Experiment to see what works best for you!
#1–Natural Mosquito Repellent Ingredients
If you are making large amounts of mosquito repellent, a good rule of thumb is to mix the repellent so it’s 5-10% essential oil, so mix 1 part essential oil with 10-20 parts carrier oil or alcohol. For a smaller batch use:
- 10-25 drops (total) of essential oils
- 2 tablespoons of a carrier oil or alcohol
The essential oils that work well against mosquitoes are:
- cinnamon oil
- lemon eucalyptus oil
- citronella oil
- castor oil
Safe carrier oils and alcohols include:
- olive oil
- sunflower oil
- any other cooking oil
- witch hazel
- vodka
Natural Mosquito Repellent Recipe
Mix the essential oil with the carrier oil or alcohol. Rub or spray the natural insect repellent onto skin or clothing, using care to avoid the sensitive eye area. You’ll need to reapply the natural product after about an hour or after swimming or exercise. Unused natural insect repellent may be stored in a dark bottle, away from heat or sunlight.
Source: http://chemistry.about.com
#2–Herbal Insect Repellent
2 1/2 teaspoons total of any combination of the following essential oils:
basil,cedarwood, citronella, juniper, lemon, myrrh, palmarosa, pine, rose geranium and/or rosemary (available at health food stores)
1 cup 190-proof grain alcohol (available in liquor stores)
Place ingredients in a jar with a tight-fitting lid and shake vigorously. Transfer to small bottles for storage. To use, rub a small amount on any exposed skin (test first to be sure your skin will not be adversely affected by the repellent) or dab it on clothing.
Experiment a little to find which essential oils work best with your body chemistry. If you’re lucky, you also will like the way they smell; otherwise, add a few drops of peppermint oil to fine-tune the fragrance.
Source: http://www.motherearthnews.com
#3–Three Organic Homemade Mosquito Repellents
Natural Mosquito Repellent Number One: To make this organic mosquito repellent, you will need 2 tablespoons sweet almond oil, 1 tablespoon of aloe vera gel, and 25 drops of Lemon Balm (Citronella) essential oil.
Combine all of the ingredients in a jar and shake well to blend. You can leave the mixture directly in the jar and just dab a few drops on to your skin or you can place it in a misting spray bottle, and spray onto your skin.
Natural Mosquito Repellent Number Two: To make this organic mosquito repellent, you will need 1 cup of 190 proof grain alcohol, 1 teaspoon Lemon essential oil, 1 teaspoon Rosemary essential oil and 1/2 teaspoon Lemon Balm (Citronella) essential oil.
Place all ingredients into a jar, and shake well to blend. Dab onto skin, or put into a misting bottle and spray on.
Natural Mosquito Repellent Number Three: This organic mosquito repellent requires 1/2 cup Vodka, 1/2 cup Organic Apple Cider Vinegar and 2 tablespoons Lemon Balm (Citronella) essential oil.
Place all ingredients into a jar, and shake to mix thoroughly. Dab the mixture onto the skin, or put into a misting spray bottle and spray directly onto skin and clothing. Source: http://www.associatedcontent.com
JULY’S PLANT OF THE MONTH:
ROSE-OF-SHARON (Hibiscus syriacus)
Rose-of-Sharon is a medium to large shrub that can also be grown as a small tree. It can reach 15 feet tall and wide, but many varieties remain smaller. Hardy to zone 5, it is also known as shrub althea or hibiscus.
The main ornamental feature of Rose-of-Sharon is the flowers, available in red, pink, white, purple or combinations of these colors. Some varieties have single flowers; others have double flowers. The flowers resemble those of hollyhock, a related plant. Flowering occurs on new growth beginning in July and can continue until the hard frosts of autumn. Flowers, generally 3-5 inches in diameter, are attractive to bees and occasional hummingbirds. Brown seedpods develop after flowers.
Rose-of-Sharon leafs out later than many deciduous shrubs, so be patient in the spring. Pruning back extensively before leaves appear will result in fewer but larger flowers. Minimal or no pruning will result in more but smaller flowers. Possible insect pests of Rose-of-Sharon include aphids and whiteflies.
Select a site with full sun to light shade and moist, well-drained soil.
This past spring Klein’s carried the following varieties. Though we have a few remaining, it is best to shop early in the season for best selection.
HIBISCUS syriacus x Chiffon Series (Rose of Sharon)
Breathtaking! Large, single flowers adorned with a lacy center to create and anemone-like bloom. H. syriacus does not die back to the ground each year! Prune out only dead wood or prune to shape only after flowering. Easy to grow. Ht.: 8-12’ Blooms mid-summer. Plant in rich, well-drained soil in full sun. Zone 5. Available in blue and lavender.
HIBISCUS syriacus x ‘Fiji’ (Rose of Sharon)
The color and texture will bring to mind beautiful exotic islands. Buds are medium pink and give way to semi-double flowers which slowly fade to light pink. A splash of deep red colors the center. Bred and introduced by Minier Nursery in France. Prune out only dead wood or prune to shape only after flowering. Easy to grow. Ht.: 5-8’. Blooms mid-summer. Plant in rich, well-drained soil in full sun. Zone 5.
HIBISCUS syriacus x ‘Hawaii’ (Rose of Sharon)
A true blue, it will bring to mind the color of waters in paradise. Large showy blossoms are a lovely blue accentuated with a red-purple heart, blooming from July ’til September. H. syriacus does not die back to the ground each year! Prune out only dead wood or prune to shape only after flowering. Easy to grow. 5-8’ tall. For full sun. Zone 5.
HIBISCUS syriacus x ‘Tahiti’ (Rose of Sharon)
Gorgeous semi-double blooms will give you a feeling of the tropics from July ’til October. Deep pink-purple flowers are accentuated with a deep red center. Bred and introduced by Minier Nursery in France. H. syriacus does not die back to the ground each year! Prune out only dead wood or prune to shape only after flowering. Easy to grow. Ht.: 5-8’. Blooms mid-summer. Plant in rich, well-drained soil in full sun. Zone 5.
AROUND TOWN:
For neighborhood events or garden tours that you would like posted in our monthly newsletter, please contact Rick at (608) 244-5661 or rick@kleinsfloral.com or Sue at sue@kleinsfloral.com. Please include all details, i.e. dates, locations, prices, brief description, etc. Events must be garden related and must take place in the Madison vicinity and we must receive your information by the first of the month in which the event takes place for it to appear in that month’s newsletter. This is a great opportunity for free advertising.
52nd Annual Lodi Art in the Park
Saturday, July 4, 10:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.
Habermann Park, Lodi (Follow the signs from Main St., Lodi (State Hwy 113) to Fair Street and Habermann Park.)
Featuring fine arts, crafts, music, children’s activities, and great food nestled in the shade of the trees along Spring Creek. Free admission.
Sponsored by the Lodi Art Club
For more information, call Jeanne Kohl 608/592-4432.
Summer Highlights
Wednesday, July 8, 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm
In the Longenecker Gardens
Led by Jeff Epping, director of horticulture at Olbrich Gardens, this tour will include summer-flowering cultivars.
University of WI Arboretum
1207 Seminole Hwy.
Madison, WI 53711
608/263-7888 or uwarboretum.org/events
Dazzling Daylily Show
Saturday, July 18, 11:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.
West Madison Agricultural Research Station
8502 Mineral Point Rd. west of the beltline and on the right side.
Admission is free
Sponsored by the Wisconsin Daylily Society @ wisconsindaylilysociety.org
2015 Summer Concert Series at Olbrich Gardens
Let the beauty of Olbrich Botanical Gardens set the perfect stage for a night of music. Bring a lawn chair or blanket, and spread out for a picnic surrounded by Olbrich’s lush flowers. Or, purchase a brat or hot dog from the Madison East Kiwanis. Picnics are allowed in the Gardens for the Tuesday concerts only. In case of rain, concerts will be held indoors. A $1 donation is suggested. Concerts are sponsored by the Olbrich Botanical Society.
Olbrich Concerts in the Gardens 2015 Schedule:
(All concerts are on Tuesdays at 7 p.m.)
July 7
Patchouli—Folk & Flamenco Duo
July14
The Whiskey Farm—Homegrown Folk/Bluegrass/Rock
July 21
Fresco Opera Theatre—Opera Made Fresh
July 28
Mark Croft Trio—Roots/Pop/Americana
Olbrich Botanical Gardens
3330 Atwood Ave., Madison
608/246-4550 or www.olbrich.org for details.
Olbrich Home Garden Tour
Featuring Gardens with Style & Sustainability in Middleton Hills & More
Friday, July 10, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Saturday, July 11, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Olbrich’s 2015 Home Garden Tour presents eight exceptional gardens that demonstrate the ethic of sustainability through a diversity of styles.
Included is the neighborhood of Middleton Hills–a model of new urbanism–where smaller, intimate lots are built around generous shared greenspaces. On the other end of the spectrum, large suburban lots and historic farm property showcase fruit orchards, organic vegetable gardens, backyard chickens, and beekeeping. Native plants and prairies, composting and permaculture techniques, and cleverly recycled materials are also featured.
Talk with homeowners, landscape designers, Master Gardener Volunteers, and Olbrich volunteers, and learn some of the techniques employed by these gardeners who create functional and beautiful spaces that are harmonious with nature.
Tickets are $12 for Olbrich members and $14 for the general public. Tickets are available at Olbrich’s Growing Gifts Shop until July 9.
On the tour days, tickets will be available for purchase at the Tour Center: Bock Community Garden starting at 9:30 a.m. on Friday and 8:30 a.m. on Saturday.
Bock Community Garden does not have a number address:
Head north on Highland Way from Century Ave (Hwy M) – Highland Way is located between Allen Blvd and Valley Ridge Rd – look for yellow tour signage
*Garden site addresses are listed on the tour tickets, which can be purchased at Olbrich Gardens prior to the tour and at the Tour Center on the tour dates. The garden site addresses are only published on the tour tickets to protect the homeowners’ privacy.
Olbrich Botanical Gardens
3330 Atwood Ave., Madison
608/246-4550 or www.olbrich.org for details.
Iris Sale
Friday thru Sunday, July 10-12, 8:00-5:00
The Madison Area Iris Society sponsors this sale of iris rhizomes, the roots that grow into iris plants. For more information call 608-271-3607.
Olbrich Botanical Gardens
3330 Atwood Ave., Madison
608/246-4550 or www.olbrich.org for details.
Rotary Garden’s Home Garden Tour
Saturday, July 11, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m (rain or shine)
Visit 8 beautiful gardens and enjoy music at various locations!
Tickets are $10 in advance and $12 the day of the event. Tickets are available at Rotary Botanical Gardens and K&W Greenery.
Rotary Botanical Gardens
1455 Palmer Drive
Janesville, WI,
608/752-3885 or www.rotarygardens.org
Native Plant Garden Tour:
Native Gardens for Pollinators
Wednesday, July 15, 7:00-8:30 p.m.
This tour will feature many summer-blooming species in our diverse native garden. We will highlight plants and gardening practices that support essential pollinators in urban/suburban landscapes.
University of WI Arboretum
1207 Seminole Hwy.
Madison, WI 53711
608/263-7888 or uwarboretum.org/events
Olbrich’s Blooming Butterflies
July 15-August 9
Daily from 10:00-4:00
In the Bolz Conservatory
Experience the wonder of strolling through a tropical forest on a search for fleeting butterflies. Live butterflies emerge from chrysalises daily in the Bolz Conservatory. Olbrich’s Blooming Butterflies is a great adventure for people of all ages. Children can visit stamping stations in the outdoor gardens with their Butterfly Passport while learning fun facts. Tour the outdoor gardens and visit the Growing Gifts shop. The cost is $7 for adults, $3 for children ages 12 and under, and free for children under 2. Olbrich Botanical Society members are admitted free. Parking is free. Bus tours are welcome; groups of 15 or more must register by calling 608/246-4550. The Bolz Conservatory will be closed Monday, July 13 and Tuesday, July 14 in preparation for Olbrich’s Blooming Butterflies.
Olbrich Botanical Gardens
3330 Atwood Ave., Madison
608/246-4550 or www.olbrich.org for details.
Guided Garden Strolls
Sundays, June thru September, 1:30-3:00
Get an insider’s view of Olbrich’s outdoor gardens during a free guided garden stroll. All ages are welcome for this casual overview of the Gardens. Guided garden strolls will vary somewhat according to the season to reflect the garden areas that are at peak interest.
Strolls start and end in the lobby near the Garden entrance and are about 45 to 60 minutes in length. No registration is required; strolls are drop-in only. Strolls are held rain or shine and will be cancelled only in the event of dangerous lightning.
Olbrich Botanical Gardens
3330 Atwood Ave., Madison
608/246-4550 or www.olbrich.org for details.
Dane County Farmer’s Market
Saturdays, April 18 thru November 7, 6:00-2:00
On the Capitol Square
Wednesdays, April 22 thru November 4, 8:30-2:00
In the 200 block of Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd.
For details visit www.dcfm.org
Northside Farmers Market
Sundays, May 3 through October 18, 8:30-12:30
In the Northside TownCenter at the intersection of N. Sherman Ave. and Northport Dr. across from Warner Park.
The Northside Farmers Market is a nonprofit community enterprise. It is one of the newest and fastest growing farmers’ markets in Dane County. In keeping with the innovative spirit of Madison’s Northside, we are surpassing what defines the traditional farmers’ market. Our fundamental principles include:
–Providing an abundant selection of high quality, locally grown foods.
The market accepts Quest, WIC and Senior FMNP vouchers.
–Supporting our local agricultural entrepreneurs who are increasingly important today in ensuring that we have the best and safest food possible.
–Educating the community about traditional foods and the history of local agriculture in an attempt to preserve (and expand upon) our rich heritage.
–Promoting nutrition and the market by hosting dinners for neighborhood groups and seniors.
Parking is always FREE!
For details visit www.northsidefarmersmarket.org
JULY IN THE GARDEN—A checklist of things to do this month.
___Pinch hardy mums until July 4 for bushier less floppy plants.
___Begin sowing and transplanting cole crops for fall harvest.
___Fertilize and mulch asparagus beds.
___Give the garden at least 1” of moisture per week.
___Mow as little as possible and with mower raised to at least 2”.
___Mulch beds to conserve moisture and keep down weeds.
___Deadheading spent blooms as needed.
___Stake and support tall plants as needed.
___Cut spent perennials to the ground to encourage new growth.
___Divide daylilies as they finish blooming.
___Fertilize potted plants at least every 2 weeks. Follow directions.
___Order spring bulbs from catalogs while your memory is still fresh.
___Keep and eye on the weather. Water as needed.
___Watch for pests and control as needed or desired.
___Stop fertilizing roses by late July.
___Visit Klein’s—Watch for end of season savings on annuals, perennials & shrubs.
Some of our very favorite seed and plant sources include:
For seeds:
Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds @ www.rareseeds.com or 417/924-8887
Burpee @ www.burpee.com or 800/888-1447
Harris Seeds @ www.harrisseeds.com or 800/514-4441
Johnny’s Select Seeds @ www.johnnyseeds.com or 207/861-3901
Jung’s Seeds @ www.jungseed.com or 800/247-5864
Park’s Seeds @ www.parkseed.com or 800/845-3369
Pinetree @ www.superseeds.com or 207/926-3400
Seeds of Change @ www.seedsofchange.com or 888/762-7333
Seed Savers @ www.seedsavers.org or 563/382-5990
Select Seeds @ www.selectseeds.com or 800/684-0395
Territorial Seeds @ www.territorialseed.com or 888/657-3131
Thompson & Morgan @ www.thompson-morgan.com or 800/274-7333
For bulbs:
Brent & Becky’s Bulbs @ www.brentandbeckysbulbs.com or 877/661-2852
Colorblends @ www.colorblends.com or 888/847-8637
John Scheeper’s @ www.johnscheepers.com or 860/567-0838
McClure & Zimmerman @ www.mzbulb.com or 800/883-6998
For plants:
High Country Gardens @ www.highcountrygardens.com or 800/925-9387
Logee’s Greenhouses @ www.logees.com or 888/330-8038
Plant Delights Nursery @ www.plantdelights.com or 912/772-4794
Roots and Rhizomes @ www.rootsrhizomes.com or 800/374-5035
Wayside Gardens @ www.waysidegardens.com or 800/213-0379
White Flower Farm @ www.whiteflowerfarm.com or 800/503-9624
Note: To receive every possible seed, plant or garden supply catalog imaginable, check out Cyndi’s Catalog of Garden Catalogs @ www.gardenlist.com. Most catalogs are free and make for great winter reading!
BEHIND THE SCENES AT KLEIN’S—This is a sneak peek of what is going on each month behind the scenes in our greenhouses. Many people are unaware that our facility operates year round or that we have 10 more greenhouses on the property in addition to the 6 open for retail. At any given moment we already have a jump on the upcoming season–be it poinsettias in July, geraniums in December or fall mums in May.
IN JULY:
—Watering is a nonstop endeavor. On hot, windy days, we no sooner finish the first round, when we have to start all over again. Some plants in our retail areas may need watering 3 or 4 times in a single day! You wouldn’t do this at home, but customers don’t like to see wilted plants. It’s not harmful for us to let them wilt a bit, but it makes for bad presentation.
—Yes, the poinsettias arrive. The small plants are potted and placed in a warm greenhouse out back where they are constantly misted for a few days until they begin rooting out. After a few weeks they are individually pinched for sturdy and bushy growth.
—Summer maintenance projects are under way.
—We transplant our fall cole crops into cell packs along with our fall pansies and violas.
PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT—Each month we spotlight some product that we already carry or one that we’ve taken note of and plan to carry in the near future. Likewise, if you would like to see Klein’s to carry a product that we don’t currently, please let us know. Our goal is to be responsive to the marketplace and to our loyal clientele. If a product fits into our profile, we will make every effort to get it into our store. In addition, we may be able to special order an item for you, whether plant or hard good, given enough time.
WATER FOUNTAINS FROM HENRI STUDIO
‘The Creativity Continues’
The soothing sounds of running water has become increasingly popular in Madison area gardens in the past few years and nothing could be easer to maintain or look more stunning than a self contained fountain from Henri Studio. Their elegant designs are craft in cement; making them virtually indestructible and resistant to anything Mother Nature can throw at them. All styles come with a pump and all accessories needed for immediate set up.
At Klein’s we currently carry 5 popular designs including Henri Studio’s Buddah fountain and quite stylish multi-tiered Equinox Fountain. Many are lit with long-lasting LED lights for added nighttime effect.
About Henri Studio:
Over the past 50 years, Henri Studio has become synonymous with excellence in cast stone fountains, statuary and garden décor. Acclaimed worldwide, Henri sets the benchmark for innovative concepts and premium products in a category which it virtually created.
Season after season, our flow of original designs in fountains and garden décor has energized the Henri brand. From classic to contemporary, Henri creations are sculpted with an eye for detail and a time-tested sensibility.
The artisan’s touch shapes every Henri creation. Each piece is poured by hand in the tradition of meticulous Old World craftsmanship, complemented by our rich, trend-setting finishes. Our fountains are expertly engineered and all Henri products are skillfully made in America.
The result is an evolving legacy of beauty. Henri fountains and garden décor continue to enhance distinctive homes and landscapes around the world, adding elegance and enjoyment to your outdoor living experience.
Creativity and quality are our passion. And with Henri fountains and garden décor, beauty and elegance are yours to enjoy now, and for years to come.
Visit their website at www.henristudio.com for more info and a peek at their catalog.