May 1, 2016 Newsletter

‘THE SAGE’-Klein’s Online Newsletter—MAY 2016
Klein’s Floral & Greenhouses
3758 E. Washington Ave.
Madison, WI 53704
608/244-5661 or info@kleinsfloral.com

THIS MONTH’S HIGHLIGHTS:
Our 2015 Spring Plant List Is Now Online!
Our ‘Mad Gardener’ Is Ready for Your Questions
Plant Your Own Containers in Our ’Creation Station’
FAQ Answers About Klein’s Ever-so-Easy Loyalty Program
About Mycorrhizae (The Good Fungus)
Klein’s Favorite Seed, Bulb & Plant Sources
You Asked the Mad Gardener About Beautyberry
Plant of the Month: Perennial Lupines
Our Very Favorite Recipes Using Flaxseed
Product Spotlight: MagniMoist Basket Liners
Notes from Rick’s Garden Journal—from April 2016
—Companion Planting: Fact or Folklore
—Favorite Watering Tools
—Garden Surprises–Spring Ephemerals
May in the Garden: A Planner
Gardening Events Around Town
Review Klein’s @: Yelp, Google Reviews or Facebook Reviews
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

OUR 2016 SPRING PLANT LIST can be viewed on-line beginning about April 15 by clicking on Spring Plants on the left side of our home page. This comprehensive listing contains every plant that Klein’s will be offering for the 2016 season and is extremely helpful for both the home gardener and landscaper alike. The list contains fun facts, cultural information and pot or pack size for each item and comes in very handy in planning your garden this spring.

KLEIN’S ‘CREATION STATION’ POTTING SHED
Bring in your own pots or purchase one of ours. Then, using our potting soil at no charge, you’ll be able to create your own masterpiece onsite! We’ll simply charge you for the plants. We require, of course, that no plants be brought in from outside sources and it’s always a good idea to call ahead to reserve a spot–especially during peak hours and to ensure the table is stocked with soil. Just contact Sue (sue@kleinsfloral.com) or Kathryn (kathryn@kleinsfloral.com) at (608) 244-5661 for more information. Our talented staff will be available to answer all questions, help pick out some plants and to get you started. We’ll even deliver them for you for an added fee.

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.

MAY STORE HOURS:
Again during the 2016 spring season, Klein’s will open at 7:00 a.m. every Tuesday! Year long, Tuesday is Klein’s Senior Discount Day. On Tuesdays those 62 and over save an extra 10% off all regular priced items. Beginning Tuesday, May 1, we opened the doors an hour early. Avoid the lines and shop early! The extended Tuesday hours last through mid-June.

In addition, with the incredible success of our outdoor checkout located in our bedding plant area, we will be making this one of our primary checkout options again for the 2016 spring season. Weather and staffing permitting, the outdoor register will be open daily. The outdoor checkout is located just outside our Potting Shed at the back of Showroom Number 1.

Monday thru Friday : 8:00-8:00 (Open Tuesdays at 7:00)
Saturday: 8:00-6:00
Sunday: 9:00-5:00

Open Memorial Day, May 30, 9:00-5:00

CALENDAR OF EVENTS:
May 5–Cinco de Mayo

May 6–This is Madison’s average last frost date (May 10 in the outlying areas), but keep your eye on the weather before planting. Madison has a notorious reputation for late May frosts. Many local old-time gardeners refuse to plant, especially their tomatoes, peppers, morning glories, etc. until Memorial Day weekend when the soil has warmed properly. Novice gardeners have a tendency to plant too early!

May 8–Mother’s Day. Order early and shop early!!! Mother’s Day is second only to Valentine’s Day for deliveries and the Saturday before Mother’s Day is traditionally our busiest day of the entire year. Extra drivers will be on the road Saturday, May 7 for prompt and efficient service. Click on Delivery Information for more details.

May 21–Full Moon

May 30–Memorial Day-the unofficial beginning of summer! Store Hours: 9-5:00

‘THE FLOWER SHOPPE’:
The weekend of Mother’s Day is THE busiest time of the year at Klein’s, far surpassing even Valentine’s Day. The showrooms bustle with not only shoppers looking for that perfect Mother’s Day gift, but also gardeners with cartloads of annuals, vegetables, perennials, seeds and garden supplies. Our retail cooler is filled to the brim with stunning spring arrangements for mom and buckets of loose cut flowers to create your own at home. An array of beautiful blooming plants makes your selection even more difficult.

Avoid the rush by shopping early. Call us 608/244-5661 or 888/244-5661 to talk to one of our designers personally or order on line @ Klein’s Floral Delivery

Klein’s has it all for mom–”one-stop shopping” for floral arrangements, gorgeous hanging baskets and patio pots, interesting and whimsical garden ornaments or the ever-appreciated gift certificate.

Extra drivers will be on the road Saturday, May 7 for prompt and efficient service. Visit Delivery Information for more details about Klein’s delivery.

YOU ASKED THE MAD GARDENER . . .
Last summer, I purchased 2 beautyberry bushes from Klein’s because I fell in love with the pretty berries. I really didn’t read up on them until now because they are showing no signs of life this spring. Do I understand correctly that there will be no new growth on the old stems? Should I have cut these back in the fall? Susan

Hi Susan,
You are correct. Beautyberry, like Buddleia (Butterfly Bush) and Caryopteris (Blue Mist Spirea) is reliably crown hardy in our area. The tops usually die back, but not always. I take a wait-and-see approach with these types of shrubs. I allow the tops to remain through the winter and wait to see where on the stems they put out new foliage; pruning only the dead wood above that point. About four out of five winters they die back to the ground and resprout from the roots in my own yard with no added winter protection. That said, seeing as your shrub(s) were just planted last season, this first winter was critical to see if they established themselves or not. Much of that is determined by how late in the season they were planted last year and whether well watered as they went into dormancy. That said, we had a very mild first winter for establishing your shrubs.

Thanks for your question,
Klein’s Mad Gardener
madgardener@kleinsfloral.com

DID YOU KNOW. . .
. . . about Klein’s fantastic and easy-to-use Loyalty Program?

Klein’s Floral and Greenhouses appreciates your business! We’ve put together a wonderful rewards program for our loyal customers to provide you more gardening information, invitation only events, preferred pricing promotions as well as monthly e-mail newsletters. And, we make it easy for you to earn your rewards. There is no card to carry, we keep track of everything! And it’s FREE! Earn a point for every dollar you spend at Klein’s (excludes gift cards, services, tax and events outside premises). Points accumulate and do not expire. When you reach 200 points, you will receive $10 off your next purchase.

Your Privacy is Our Priority – Klein’s is committed to protecting the privacy of its customers. Therefore, you have our word that the information you give us will remain strictly confidential. We promise that we will not sell any personal identifying information (name, address, phone number, or email address) to any person, company, organization, or agency. Phone numbers are used to look up customers in store; we will not contact customers by phone.

Rewards members will automatically be added to our mailing lists. Most correspondence and notices will be sent via e-mail. You can expect e-mails to keep you up to date with happenings at the store, special notification by email of unannounced/unadvertised specials, sales, membership appreciation events and receipt of monthly newsletter “The Sage” packed with information and gardening tips!

The loyalty program will automatically deduct your senior discount if you are 62 years old or more on Tuesdays. The loyalty program will also deduct your Master Gardener discount (must be updated annually).

It’s our way of saying thank you for your patronage of our business. We know you have other choices and are grateful that you have chosen us. It’s also a great way for us to connect with our best customers, give you tips and advice, and reward you with exclusive offers and savings.

To get started, simply click Loyalty Program Sign-Up

Please note:
No points are given for prior purchases. Returns will be deducted from Loyalty point balances.

Membership is non-transferrable and may only be used by an individual member for personal benefit. Businesses and organizations excluded, sorry!

Program benefits may not be combined with other benefits accrued by another member or other group discount programs.

Klein’s reserves the right to exclude certain purchases from our loyalty program at our discretion. Klein’s reserves the right to modify or discontinue our loyalty program at any time, with or without notice.

Special Birthday Mailers – Receive a birthday gift certificate during the month of your birth.

Can’t find you receipt? If you used you rewards account then we can find it for you after your initial sign up information has been entered in our computer system!

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.

MagniMoist Basket Liners
Revolutionary Soil-Hydration Fiber

For the past few years, Klein’s has been placing the unique yet practical MagniMoist fiber discs at the bottom of most of our 10 and 12” hanging baskets. We use them most often with plants that tend to dry out the most and need to be watered more often—petunias, geraniums, dragonwing begonias, lantana, etc. Results have been noticeable and impressive and feedback from our customers has been fantastic.

New in 2016, we are not only selling the MagniMoist discs, but also MagniMoist basket liners; a unique alternative to coco-liners in open moss baskets.

What Are MagniMoist Planter Inserts?
Did you know that getting enough water is the #1 factor effecting container-grown plants? MagniMoist Planter Inserts are a revolutionary soil-hydrating fiber for growing healthy, vibrant containers.

How Do They Work?
Place a MagniMoist Insert below the soil in all clay, plastic, stone and wood pots to enhance plant health, color and water management. MagniMoist deflects water up into the soil until the soil is saturated, and then releases only the excess water. MagniMoist is university-tested to keep soil wetter!

MagniMoist doesn’t let water escape from your basket until your plant is completely hydrated. When you water, MagniMoist’s smart fiber deflects water back into the dry soil above it. Then when the soil is fully saturated, the fiber becomes porous and releases only the excess water. You’ll also save more fertilizer because MagniMoist reduces runoff and enhances plant uptake.

What Are They Made Of?
MagniMoist Inserts are made of kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinus), a plant thought to be native to Asia. The plant is a close cousin to cotton. Kenaf is often touted as a new crop but it is in fact an ancient crop, having been domesticated in sub-Sahara Africa more than 6000 years ago. Two species occur natively in the continental United States. The stalk contains two different types of fiber, an outer “bast” (the bark) and an inner “core.” The fibers are used separately or together in the manufacture of different products ranging from paper to woven products like our MagniMoist Inserts. It is also used in insulation and is even being used as a fiber in automobile bodies.

No Comparisons
The special patent-pending MagniMoist fiber is an all-natural, U.S.-grown formulation with a 100% recycled binder. We produce MagniMoist to strict horticultural standards in the United States. We promise NO chemical binders and NO fumigants.

The Results
Researchers at the University of Minnesota tested flower pots with integrated reservoirs against pots lined with MagniMoist Planter Inserts. The MagniMoist-lined pots are clearly more robust! To see the results, view a short video and learn more, check out their website at www.thinkmint.net.

NOTES FROM MY GARDEN JOURNAL–Tips and Observations from My Own Garden by Rick Halbach

ENTRY: APRIL 12, 2016 (Companion Planting: Fact or Folklore)
My newest issue of The American Gardener magazine (one of my favorites through the American Horticultural Society) arrived today and contained an interesting and informative article about companion planting. I found the following even more informative article by Barbara Pleasant on the Mother Earth News website @ www.motherearthnews.com.

Companion Planting with Flowers and Vegetables
Each spring, I grow legions of onions and shallots from seed, and my biggest challenge is keeping them weeded. Last year, I planted pinches of arugula between the short rows of shallots, and the leafy, fast-growing arugula smothered any weeds and showed remarkably little damage from flea beetles, which often plague it. The arugula was ready to harvest just when the shallots needed room to grow. In a eureka moment, I realized I had discovered a vegetable companion-planting partnership I could use year after year to make my garden healthier and more productive.

The idea of “companion planting” has been around for thousands of years, during which time it has become so besmirched with bad science and metaphysics that many gardeners aren’t sure what it means. The current definition goes something like this: Companion planting is the establishment of two or more species in close proximity so that some cultural benefit, such as pest control or increased yield, may be achieved.

Historically, North American and European gardeners have based many of their attempts with companion planting on widely published charts, which were mostly derived from funky chemistry experiments using plant extracts in the 1930s. But it turns out many of the plant partnerships listed in these “traditional” companion-planting charts don’t actually work well. Reaping the benefits of companion planting is possible, though, as long as you look to time-tested crop combinations.

Companion Crop Combinations
In North America, Native American tribes from the Northeast to the Southwest developed highly specialized intercropping techniques to grow the “three sisters” — corn, pole beans and squash. (There is a fourth sister, sunflower, but she didn’t make it into the early stories.) Three sisters gardens vary in shape, size and planting style (raised mounds in the East and North, recessed waffle beds in the Southwest). The three (or four) sisters technique works because the crops cooperate rather than compete with each other for light and root space. The corn supports the bean vines, the squash shades out weeds, and the roots of the different plants get along nicely below ground.

But what about all of the other vegetables you want to grow? An experienced gardener from China wouldn’t be surprised by my success with onions and arugula, because intercropping of vegetables is the traditional way to garden in China’s most fertile regions. Plant associations that work well are shared among neighbors, as everyone has learned that intercropping is more efficient, reduces weed and pest pressure, and lowers the risk of crop failure. Chinese intercropping practices use a broad range of crops, which makes them easy to replicate in a diversified organic garden.

Agricultural researchers have noted that the paired plants in Chinese intercropping practices usually differ in height, maturation period and rooting habit. In addition, many gardeners in China grow the following intercropped vegetables back-to-back during the course of the growing season:

—Onions with leafy vegetables, followed by green beans and Chinese cabbage or spinach
—Potatoes with leafy vegetables, followed by green beans and Chinese cabbage or spinach
—Spring kale with radishes, followed by celery and tomatoes
—Spring spinach, followed by lima beans and tomatoes
—Double rows of corn alternated with single rows of peppers
—A double row of garlic with spinach down the center
—Strawberries with watermelon

Using Plants to Manage Pests and Weeds
Some gardeners use companion planting to deter all manner of garden pests, such as planting hedges of marigolds to deter rabbits or using rattail radishes to confuse squash vine borers. In our online Pest Control Survey, the gardeners who reported the most success with companion planting to discourage pests used a single technique: “growing tons of flowers,” with borage, calendula, dill, sweet alyssum, and herbs such as basil, garlic chives and oregano named most frequently.

Several scientific studies have confirmed these and other flowering plants help reduce pest problems, particularly if your garden is troubled by early-season aphids or other small sucking insects, which are primary food sources for hoverfly larvae. Hoverflies are active, early-season aphid predators (before aphid-eating ladybeetles take over later in the season). Scientists have found that hovering in midair requires so much energy that hoverflies tend to stick close to nectar sources, so if you lure them in with the right plants, they’re likely to stay all summer. Cilantro (coriander) and fennel flowers are strong hoverfly attractants, as are Greek oregano, sweet alyssum, and many other herbs and flowers.

You can also use companion planting to draw the attention of birds, which eat a wide variety of garden insects. In a recent study conducted at four organic farms in Florida, sunflowers interplanted with collard greens, kale, summer squash, tomatoes and five other vegetable crops doubled the number of insect-eating birds that visited the garden plots. The birds used the sunflowers as hunting perches, then hopped down to feed on cabbageworms, grasshoppers and other small insects, including flea beetles. Could there be an easier, more beautiful way to reduce pest problems before they start?

Finally, one of the finest benefits of finding plant associations that work well for your garden is using them to keep weeds under control. Slower-growing, upright plants (such as onions and parsnips) can be nursed along with companion crops of baby greens, which are much more rewarding to pull than weeds. In some situations, however, even weeds may become desirable companion plants. Several readers have reported using redroot pigweed as a trap crop for cucumber beetles and Mexican bean beetles. In some locations, wild mustards can work as trap crops for flea beetles in spring.

Companion planting for pest control purposes deserves close scrutiny and the willingness to trust your own experience over what you read in books. Planting basil with tomatoes sounds good, but the pairing does little to deter tomato hornworms (its intended purpose), and the basil eventually suffers from light deprivation. The combination also fails below ground, where the two plants grow on the same schedule and therefore take up nutrients at the same time. Radishes and cilantro may be wiser choices as pals for your tomatoes, because each make a quick crop before the tomatoes need more space, and a few radish or cilantro plants can be left behind to attract beneficial insects as they flower.

Measuring Success
Agricultural researchers use a simple formula called the land equivalent ratio (LER) to measure the overall success of intercropped plantings. The LER balances space and production costs with yields. For example, cauliflower is a slow-growing crop that needs a lot of space, so it has an LER of 1. But if you grow lettuce between cauliflower plants (as researchers did in a recent study in Pakistan), the LER per square foot will rise significantly. Space planted with a dominant crop (broccoli, cauliflower, tomatoes) and a companion crop (lettuce, radicchio or sorrel) will almost always have a higher LER than space with a crop grown by itself.

Some gardeners grow companion plants in adjacent rows, and sweet corn is a champ in this role because of its ability to provide filtered shade to neighboring plants. In China, crowder peas, green beans and peppers are all popular crops to sandwich between rows of corn. In many hot climates, corn grown along the south side of potatoes provides shade in hot weather, which helps keep the soil cool and moist while the potatoes are making their crop.

Working with companion plants requires experimenting in your own garden, using the crops your family likes best, and allowing for an increase in leafy greens because they are such versatile companion plants. (A couple of chickens or rabbits will gladly feast on whatever your family can’t use.) Gardeners sometimes say the plants in good intercropping associations “just seem happy” — a worthy goal for any organic gardener.

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ENTRY: APRIL 23, 2016 (Favorite Watering Tools)
I received an email this morning from a customer that had remembered I had recommended a rain barrel in a newsletter article from last summer. Now that we’re heading into the summer season I thought I’d share that article again with readers.

From August 2015:
Watering is a seemingly non-stop summer endeavor for all gardeners. For me, it’s also one of my favorite garden chores because its my time to closely observe the fruits of my labor. With over 30 years watering experience both at home and at work under my belt, I certainly have my favorite watering tools. I’ve tried many, many types of nozzles, wands, shut-off valves, hoses, sprinklers and watering cans over the years with varying degrees of success and satisfaction.

The following is my list of very favorites in terms of durability and performance. Though some are a little more expensive, their ease of use and long life make them worth the few extra dollars. Where I can, I tapped into the manufacturer’s or catalog’s website for information.

Rick’s Favorites:

#1 Spray Nozzle—Dramm’s #800 Adjustable Brass Hose Nozzle
This type of spray nozzle was my grandma’s favorite 50 years ago and it continues to be mine to this day. Squeeze spray nozzles tend to make my hand tired with all the watering I need to do. Granted, most have a lock option for continuous water flow, the amount of flow is preset offering one little control. This Dramm nozzle is easy on the hands and it NEVER breaks! I’ve been using the same one since we bought our house in 1986!!

“Our Adjustable Hose Nozzle is great for cleaning walkways, benches, equipment… just about anything! Twist the barrel to adjust the water pattern from a fine, cone-shaped spray to a powerful stream. Twist the barrel back and the water is off. Manufactured in the U.S.A. from brass. 3/4 hose threads.”

#1 Watering Wand—Dramm Colormark RainWand with Brass Shutoff Valve (not One Touch!)
—The premium Rain Wand™
—Handcrafted brass shut-off valve (see below)
—Gentle, full ﬂow for fast watering
—Comfortable foam grip
—Professional grade materials
—Six rich colors
—American made (Manitowoc, WI)
—Lifetime guarantee

I’m not a fan of the squeeze handle, One Touch version. Again, with all the watering I do, it can be a little hard on the hand, though Dramm has added a feature to keep the water flow at a constant level. This version is far and away better than the older version.

#1 Shut-off Valve—Dramm’s #300 Brass Shut-Off Valve
“Simply the best shut-off valve available. Dramm’s #300 Brass Shut-Off Valve provides fingertip water control at the end of your hose. A quarter turn of the large ergonomic handle and the water is off. Full water flow design. Made in the USA from brass, durable seals and a hard chrome plated ball to provide years of service. 3/4 threads.”

Unlike plastic shut-offs, these never break!!! I’ve used the same two in my garden for nearly 20 years now!!

#1 Hose—Yardworks® 5/8 x 50′ Rubber Garden Hose available at Menard’s
Cheap hoses are not worth the money!! They kink, they leak, they tangle, they explode if left on. This contractor quality hose lasts for years. It rolls up easily and rarely kinks. Though pricier than other garden hoses, it’s very worth it!

“This 5/8″ diameter x 50′ long heavy-duty Yardworks® premium Black rubber garden hose offers a limited lifetime warranty and solid crush-resistant brass couplings. It can be used for tough watering chores and industrial hot water. It is made in the USA and features 5-ply construction; one inner core, one nylon reinforcement layer and three layers of premium rubber for high burst strength. It handles water pressure up to 400 PSI (pounds per square inch) and hot water to 180 degrees. Made in the USA. Lifetime limited guarantee.

#1 Lawn Sprinkler—The Original Raintower by Wade Rain
“The Raintower is the ideal sprinkler for homeowners and gardeners alike. Its stand adjusts to either 41″ or 72″ height settings. This allows you to provide gentle rain irrigation on lawns, gardens, flowers and shrub beds without shadowing (dry spots) caused by shrubs and other obstacles. The Raintower adjustable sprinkler head can water in full or partial circles. The sprinkler head is made of durable plastic. The distance of water throw can also be adjusted. This allows you to cover almost any yard or garden shape and size. From one setting you can cover-up to 5,000 square feet.”

This is the ultimate garden sprinkler!! Though it comes with a plastic sprinkler head, I’ve paid the extra money to replace it with the brass head. The plastic head lasts about 3-5 years (less if the rain tower gets knocked over on the cement driveway!), whereas I’ve had the current brass head for nearly 10. I’ve had my current rain tower for going on 20 years and have only replaced the original plastic head.

The Raintower is available online from a number of sources (see, for example www.growersupply.com) for about $75-80. Again, the price is worth it!!

The brass head is available for about $20 @ www.agriculturesolutions.com

#1 Watering Can—French Watering Can #06-341 from Gardener’s Supply Co. @ www.gardeners.com/buy/french-blue-plastic-watering-can-3-gallon/06-341.html
Happy news!! My very favorite watering can has become available again from Garden Supply Co. after a couple of years of unavailability. I’ve purchases six of them over the years (and still have all six!). This is is the largest and easiest-to-carry watering can I’ve found to date. I use all six cans simultaneously when watering from my rain barrel (see below).

#1 Rain Barrel—Deluxe 75 Gallon Rain Barrel from Gardener’s Supply Company @ www.gardeners.com/buy/deluxe-rain-barrel-75-gallon/38-661RS.html#start=4
There are few 75 gallon rain barrels on the market and this one is the best. I’ve had mine for over 10 years and continue to love this barrel over others friends have purchased over the years. My only criticism of the barrel is that the water flows from the attached hose way too slowly, even though my barrel is elevated over two feet off the ground for necessary pressure. To rectify the problem, I syphon the water from the barrel using clear plastic tubing cut to length at Farm & Fleet. Once the syphoning flow starts (using my mouth!), I fill the 6 watering cans (see above). At 3 gallons ea. that equals18 gallons of water ready to go.

“Collecting rainwater just makes sense: It conserves a precious resource and reduces water bills. Plus, plants love chlorine-free rainwater! Our large-capacity Deluxe Rain Barrel has smart features that make it easy and convenient. Four ports let you attach several hoses and link multiple barrels. An overflow outlet diverts excess water away, and there’s a safety grid and removable debris screen on top. It includes a 4′ hose with on/off thumb valve that connects to a standard garden hose, and three end caps for the ports you’re not using.” Choice of green or brown.

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ENTRY: APRIL 23, 2016 (Garden Surprises–Spring Ephemerals)
Now as the weather warms, each day brings new surprises to the garden. It started with the winter aconites and the species crocus in the grass a few weeks back. Then the scilla, the chionodoxa and the first of the daffodils. This is just the beginning. Over the next few weeks, and before the leaves appear on the trees during early May, it’s the ephemerals that will become the stars of my garden.

The word ‘ephemeral’ is of Greek origin and means ‘lasting a very short time or having a very short life cycle.‘ Spring ephemerals usually sprout shortly after the snow melts and complete their life cycle before leaves appear on the trees. Once they flower and set seed, plants go back into dormancy for the rest of the year.

Favorite spring ephemerals in my own yard include:

Bloodroot–forms large patches over the years and as they spread. They are low to the ground and have white flowers held above leathery foliage. They are quite impressive when in bloom, but last almost the least amount of time among the ephemerals. Don’t blink if the weather heats up quickly!!b They are native and reliable hardy. Single and double-flowered versions are available.

Virginia Bluebells–Few scenes are more striking than a forest floor in full bloom with Virginia bluebells. Plants emerge purple immediately after the snow melts and grow quite quickly to up to two feet in ideal conditions. The foliage is large and soft and plants become quite floppy toward the end of blooming. Flowers emerge pinkish and turn a beautiful shade of blue. Plants spread easily through the garden as the patch spreads and also by seed. They are shallow rooted, however, and are easily pulled and rarely become a problem in the home garden. Plants die back quickly once flowering is complete. I tuck the yellowing foliage along the ground among the later perennials growing around them. At some point the dead foliage detaches easily from the roots for quick clean up.

White trilliums–Since childhood trilliums have ranked high among my favorite flowers. I traditionally picked my mom a bouquet for Mothers Day each year from the woodlands near our home. They grew everywhere! Having said that, once you’ve picked a trillium, you’ve killed the plant. There’s been much concern over the years about loss of trillium habitat and over-harvesting. However, the fears haven’t panned out and trillium populations remain sound. In Wisconsin it is legal to pick trillium on one’s own property or another’s property with permission. But it is illegal to pick trillium on any public land.

Mayapples–Mayapples and trilliums grew together in the same woods near my parents’ house and I was always fascinated by their giant umbrella-like leaves. Today I have a rather huge patch of them growing beneath the black walnut tree behind my screenhouse. A large patch of mayapple is an impressive sight.

Winter Aconite–The first of the ephemerals to bloom in my yard–usually while there’s still a little snow on the ground. Over time they form patches of small yellow flowers. They self-sow nicely and appear randomly throughout my yard after planting perhaps 50 bulbs several years ago. Bulbs are available in the fall.

Trout Lily–Not well-known and kind of insignificant, they remind me of a yellow trillium with lovely patterned foliage. Unlike trilliums, the flowers are down facing. Plants are durable, but don’t spread quickly. They are usually only available as bulbs.

Bleeding Hearts–My very old bleeding hearts have become impressive shrubs over the years. They are very durable and old-fashioned. The foliage lingers a bit longer than most ephemerals–sometimes the whole summer if conditions are ideal. Our most common garden varieties come from Asia, though many native species are available; including Dutchman’s breeches. Bleeding hearts are always a kid’s favorite!

Jack-in-the-Pulpit--Very tough plants in most gardens where conditions are right. Pitcher-like flowers form on long stalks in sometimes impressive large-leaved plants. In late summer beautiful red seed clusters form and are beautiful in their own rite. Plants spread nicely and also spread from seed; forming nice patches as the years go by.

Many of the above spring ephemerals are available at Klein’s throughout May. But shop early because if you wait too long, it’ll appear you’re buying just a pot of soil sans plant!

KLEIN’S RECIPES OF THE MONTH—These are a selection of relatively simple recipes chosen by our staff. New recipes appear monthly. Enjoy!!

Flax is a very versatile and useful plant. Physically, it is a tall, upright growing annual plant with long, pale grey-green leaves and slender stems. It will produce relatively small 5-petaled blue flowers. Its fruit is a dry, round capsule that contains a few seeds. The Flax seeds are similar to apple seeds.

Flax is grown for many reasons including: its ornamental use in gardens, its edible oils, use as a nutritional supplement and for its fibers. Flax seeds are used whole, roasted or ground in cooking. They’re an excellent source of dietary fiber and Omega-3 fatty acids. Flax is also one of the oldest known fiber crops. Flax was probably domesticated in the Fertile Crescent. It was an important crop for Ethiopia and ancient Egypt. It was during this period where flax was probably first used to make linens. Historians report that it was used by humans as far back as 30,000 BCE!

For the first time this season, Klein’s is carrying flax seed (linum usitatissimum) plants in 3 1/2” pots in our herb area. Supply is limited.

Source: Silverleaf Greenhouses @ www.silverleafgreenhouses.com/products/flax-omega/

BLACK BEAN BURGERS—
3 cups black beans, canned or cooked
¼ cup chopped walnuts
½ cup grated carrots
1 Tbsp soy sauce
1 Tbsp water
¼ tsp salt
1 tsp basil
1 tsp oregano
1 tsp onion powder
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp red pepper
¼ cup stabilized ground flaxseed

Mash beans. Add the remaining ingredients and mix well. If mixture seems too dry, add additional water to moisten. If mixture seems too wet, add additional stabilized ground flaxseed. Form mixture into patties. Spray skillet with nonstick spray and preheat on stovetop. Place patties on skillet. Cook for five minutes, then turn and cook five minutes on the other side.

FLAXEN HUMMUS—
2 tablespoons stabilized ground flaxseed
¼ cup warm water
2 cups cooked Garbanzo Beans or 1 each 15 ounce can, drained
¼ cup fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons Tahini
2 cloves garlic, shopped
Pinch black pepper
½ teaspoon ground cumin
Pinch cayenne pepper
1 to 2 tbsp Tamari

In a small bowl, combine stabilized ground flaxseed and water and let soak 10 minutes.
In a food processor, combine beans, lemon juice, Tahini, garlic, black pepper, cumin, cayenne, Tamari, and soaked flax. Process until smooth.

OVEN BAKED FRIED CHICKEN—
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Canola or olive oil
½ cup bread crumbs
½ cup stabilized ground flaxseed
¼ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp black pepper
1 tbsp parsley
1 tbsp Parmesan cheese
¼ tsp Italian seasoning to taste

Wash and pat dry chicken. Dip chicken in Canola or olive oil. To make a flax breading, combine the bread crumbs, ½ cup stabilized ground flaxseed, garlic powder, black pepper, parsley, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning in a plastic bag, seal and shake to blend. Coat chicken in the flax breading. Place breaded chicken breasts on a baking sheet and bake, uncovered, in a 375ºF oven for about 25 minutes, or until chicken is done and a golden brown.

FLAX OATMEAL COOKIES WITH CAROB CHIPS—Yields about 72 cookies.
1 cup canola
1 cup sugar
1 cup brown sugar
2 eggs
1 tsp vanilla
2 cups all-purpose unbleached flour
1 cup oatmeal
½ cup stabilized ground flaxseed
½ tsp salt
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
2 cups carob chips
1 ½ cups almonds, chopped

Cream canola and sugars until light and fluffy. Add eggs and vanilla and beat well. Mix together flour, oatmeal, stabilized ground flaxseed, salt, baking powder and baking soda. Stir into creamed mixture. Add carob chips and almonds. Mix until blended. Form into 1 inch balls. Place on an ungreased cookie sheet, leaving about 2 inches between cookies. Bake at 350ºF for 10 minutes.

FLAX MEATLOAF—Oh so nummy!
2 lbs lean ground beef
1 cup skim milk
½ cup stabilized ground flaxseed (Mega Omega® or Simply Omega-3™)
½ cup dry bread crumbs
½ cup chopped onion
1 Egg, beaten
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp dry mustard
½ tsp celery salt
¼ tsp ground thyme
¼ cup ketchup

In a large bowl, combine beef, milk, stabilized ground flaxseed, crumbs, onion, egg, Worcestershire sauce, pepper, garlic, mustard, celery salt and thyme. Mix well. Pat mixture into a 9 x 5 x 3 inch loaf pan. Spread ketchup over top of loaf. Bake at 350ºF 1 to 1½ hours, until no pink remains. Remove from oven and let stand 5 minutes. Remove from pan, place on platter to serve. Serves 8.

ORZO, LENTIL & FLAX SOUP—
¼ cup Butter
1 onion finely chopped
1 carrot finely chopped
1 celery stalk finely chopped
½ green pepper, finely chopped
5 cups boiling water
⅓ cup low sodium chicken soup base
2 tsp granulated garlic
1 bay leaf
2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
28 oz tomatoes with herbs and spices; break up tomatoes
⅓ cup orzo pasta or any small soup pasta
⅓ cup dried lentils, rinsed
1 tsp granulated sugar
⅓ cup stabilized ground flaxseed

In a large pot, over medium to medium-low heat, melt butter. Add onion, carrot, celery and green pepper. Gently sauté over medium-low heat for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add boiling water, soup base, granulated garlic, bay leaf, Worcestershire sauce, tomatoes with juice, orzo and lentils. Stir. Slowly simmer for 1 hour with lid ajar, stirring occasionally until lentils are soft. Add sugar and stabilized ground flaxseed. Stir and serve. Serves 10.

Recipe source: www.flax.com/index.html

NATURAL NEWS–

Mycorrhizae

What are mycorrhizae?
The word ”mycorrhizae” is derived from the Greek words: mykes—meaning fungus, and rhiza—meaning root. Mycorrhizae are specialized, beneficial fungi that establish symbiotic relationships with plant roots. It is estimated that as much as 90% of the world’s land plants develop some kind of symbiosis with mycorrhizae.

How do they work?
The mycorrhizal fungi penetrate growing plant root tissues, surround the root mass, and extend far into the surrounding soil, encompassing a much greater volume of soil than that occupied by the plant’s own roots and root hair system. The fungi’s long thread-like mycelia are especially effective in capturing moisture and nutrients from the soil, particularly nitrogen and phosphorous. The fungi consume the nutrients, but more importantly, they generously share them with the roots of the host plant. In return, the host plant provides the fungi with photosynthesized nutrients, especially sugars.

Building great soil structure
Mycorrhizae also act as an important soil-binding agent, significantly contributing to friable soil texture. Their countless long filaments, called hyphae, tend to accumulate in the soil over a period of time and can persist for months or even years. Larger soil particles, particularly the sand-sized fraction, tend to be held together by these hyphae. The filaments tend to have sticky surfaces from extracellular polysaccharides, which are sugars processed and exuded by the mycorrhizae. Additionally, the tips of developing root hairs likewise secrete polysaccharidic mucigel, a similarly sticky, plant-produced substance. Together, these sticky materials enable the filamentous hyphae to strongly adhere to the soil particles, physically binding and enmeshing them together to form tiny, semi-stable aggregates. This aggregate structure increases in the root zone, encouraging further root growth, which in turn attracts more mycorrhizae, leading to more aggregation and so on, perpetuating the process.

What does this process mean to the gardener?
Mycorrhizae help to absorb nutrients, assist in drought tolerance, and create ideal garden soil structure: soil that drains, breaths, and retains optimum moisture. The near perfect ”coffee-grounds” soil texture often found in fastidiously maintained organic gardens are an example of long-term mycorrhizal soil activity.

MAY’S PLANT OF THE MONTH:

Perennial Lupines
Lupines are upright, mound forming wildflowers with fans of green, lance shaped leaves and spikes of brightly colored sweet pea-like flowers from June to August, that are favored by hummingbirds and butterflies. There are two hundred different species of lupines, in a family that includes annuals, perennials and shrubs. There are only a few varieties that are commonly grown in home gardens.

Russell Hybrid Lupines
Russell Lupines are by far the most popular. They were developed by a gardener named George Russell, who held a fascination for growing different kinds of lupines.
In the early 1930s, he started collecting the best seeds from the plants that had cross-pollinated between his L. polyphyllus and L. hartwegii. In 1937, Mr. Russell released his first batch of seeds to the public. Their beautiful foliage and brightly colored, 3 ft. spikes of flowers made them an immediate success! Hardy in USDA zones 3-9, Klein’s carries the Russell hybrids in five individual colors; blue, red, pink, yellow and white.

Klein’s also carries our native wild lupine, lupinus perennis. Flowers are in a spike-like cluster to 8 inches long. Individual flowers are ¾ to 1 inch long and a typical pea-shape, on a short stalk. The lower parts of the flower are blue. The upper parts may be blue, or two-tone blue and purple, or blue and white. Wild Lupine is the only host plant for the Karner Blue butterfly caterpillar. Habitat loss has led to the decline in plants, and put the Karner Blue on the endangered species list.

Growing Requirements for Lupine Plants
Lupine grow best in climates with cool wet winters and long hot summers. They will flower best if they are grown in full sun. They should be planted in moderately rich, well draining, slightly acidic soil. Feed monthly with a good all-purpose fertilizer until the plant begins to bloom, then no further feeding is necessary. Water regularly and thoroughly during the growing season. Apply a heavy mulch in dry regions. Remove spent flower spikes promptly to prolong the life of the plant! Lupines are classified as short-lived perennials but readily self-sow in the right conditions. Beware of slugs and snails!. They can destroy a lupine in one night!

Propagating Lupine Plants
Lupine seeds have a very hard seed coat, so you will need to soak your seeds in warm water for 24 hours, or nick each seed coat before sowing them. Seeds can be sown directly in the garden where they will grow, as soon as all danger of frost has passed in the spring. If you intend to start your seeds indoors, maintain a temperature of 55°-70° within the growing medium. Annual varieties will germinate in 15-20 days. The seeds of perennial Lupines take 20-25 days to germinate. Use care to protect the taproot when transplanting! Lupine plants can be propagated with cuttings or by division in early spring.

Sources: www.minnesotawildflowers.info/flower/wild-lupine & www.thegardenhelper.com/lupine.html

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.

Dahlia Tuber Sale
Sunday, May 1, 11:30-2:00

Dahlias are late summer bloomers popular for their extravagant blooms, diverse forms, and bright colors. They’re subtropical annuals grown each year from tubers dug up in the fall and overwintered in a cool, dry environment. The sale is sponsored by the Badger State Dahlia Society. For more information call 608-577-1924.

Olbrich Botanical Gardens
3330 Atwood Ave., Madison
608/246-4550 or www.olbrich.org for details.

Woodland Wildflowers
Wednesday, May 1, 1:00 pm –2:30 pm
From the Visitor Center

As spring progresses, more flowers emerge. We will look for windflower, troutlily, rue–anemone, and Virginia bluebells along the trails of our restored woodlands.

University of WI Arboretum
1207 Seminole Hwy.
Madison, WI 53711
608/263-7888 or uwarboretum.org/events

Magnificent Magnolias
Wednesday, May 4, 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm
In the Longenecker Gardens

Tour Longenecker Horticultural Gardens’ extensive magnolia collection, and other spring flowering plants encountered along the way, with Michael Jesiolowski, Chicago Botanic Garden Senior Horticulturist.

University of WI Arboretum
1207 Seminole Hwy.
Madison, WI 53711
608/263-7888 or uwarboretum.org/events

Garden Architecture Pioneering
Thursday, May 5, 6:00-8:00
Willy St. Co-op West Community Room

Instructor: Ben Becker
Fee: $10 for Owners; $20 for non-owners

Take a look at how structure, design and form can add to your gardening experience. Experiment with creating fun planting edifices, such as raised beds, cold frames, hoops or vertical gardens. Learn how companion planting can utilize the natural attributes of your flora to create complementary combinations. We will also discuss using themes to create alluring backyard wonders.

Payment is required at registration; please register by stopping at the Willy West Customer Service desk or by calling (608) 284-7800.

Willy Street Co-op West
6825 University Ave.
Middleton, WI 53562
(608) 284-7800
www.willystreet.coop

Olbrich’s Plant Sale with the Pros
Friday, May 6, 11:00-5:00
Saturday, May 7, 9:00-3:00

Enjoy one-stop shopping convenience during Olbrich’s Plant Sale with the Pros at Olbrich Botanical Gardens. Buy the same unique plants used in Olbrich’s gardens. Olbrich’s Plant Sale with the Pros will feature everything from annuals and perennials to ornamental grasses and shrubs.

The plant sale will feature the newest cultivars on the market including tropical plants that will fire up your garden, small-scale garden conifers, herbs, and butterfly plants along with hundreds of annuals and perennials. Shoppers will find rare shrubs and trees, including hardy shrub roses that thrive in the challenging Wisconsin climate.

Expert Advice
Olbrich horticulturists and master gardeners will be on hand to answer any question and give expert advice. Olbrich’s Schumacher Library will also be at the sale with reference books and garden information. Be inspired by plant combinations and displays developed by Olbrich’s professional staff.

Take advantage of free container design and potting services at the Plant Pro Potting Bench. Get help selecting the best plants for a stunning container garden or hanging basket…then let a professional plant them for you! Pots are available for purchase at the sale or bring your own containers!

Proceeds from the plant sale benefit Olbrich Botanical Gardens. Shop early since quantities are limited. Shoppers are encouraged to bring cartons, wagons, or boxes for carrying plants.

Olbrich Botanical Gardens
3330 Atwood Ave., Madison
608/246-4550 or www.olbrich.org for details.

Rotary Garden’s Spring Plant Sale
Friday, May 6, 9:00-4:00 (RBG Friends Members only)
Saturday, May 7, 9:00-4:00
Sunday, May, 8, 9:00-4:00
Rotary Gardens Horticulture Center, 825 Sharon Rd., Janesville, WI

Featuring vegetable plants including heirloom tomatoes, bell peppers, hot peppers, basil, miscellaneous herbs and beans. Thousands of daylily divisions from the gardens will also be available for purchase as will bagged mushroom compost.

Rotary Botanical Gardens
1455 Palmer Drive
Janesville, WI,
608/752-3885 or www.rotarygardens.org

UW Family Gardening Day
Saturday, May 7, 9:00-1:00

Join us for the 12th Annual UW Family Gardening Day at D.C. Smith Greenhouse, 465 Babcock Drive; Allen Centennial Gardens, 620 Babcock Drive; Steenbock Memorial Library, 550 Babcock Drive; and the UW Biotron, 2115 Observatory Dr.

You can park nearby at Lot 40 (460 Babcock Drive), Lot 36 (1645 Observatory Drive) and Lot 34 (1480 Tripp Circle).

UW Family Gardening Day gives everyone a chance to see & explore some of the splendid facilities for teaching, research and outreach in the plant sciences as well as to tour the beautiful gardens on campus. We look forward to seeing you there!

—Free, family friendly event
—Tour the D.C. Smith Greenhouse
—Visit Allen Centennial Gardens for inspiring home garden ideas. While you’re there, pick up a Pasta Four-Pack (while supplies last)
—Tour the UW Biotron facility and investigate a variety of plant growing environments (including space!)
—Check out the Steenbock library for the Library Gardening Collection and a UW-
—Check out the Steenbock Library as well for hands-on activities with BioCommons and Wisconsin’s Water Library
—Stop by the Babcock Hall Dairy Store for tasty treats (11:00-4:00)
—Explore hands-on activities with soil, seeds and seedlings
— Build a terrarium or look at insects under a microscope
—Use all 5 of your senses to experience plants

Visit www.science.wisc.edu/family-gardening-day.htm#sthash.ugjcsqEH.dpuf for details.

Native Plant Sale
Saturday, May 7, 9:00-2:00
U.W.-Madison Arboretum Visitor Center

More than 100 species of quality prairie plants, woodland plants, shrubs, vines and trees are available for purchase under one tent. Experts will be on hand to answer questions. Proceeds support Arboretum projects.

University of WI Arboretum
1207 Seminole Hwy.
Madison, WI 53711
608/263-7888 or uwarboretum.org/events

Troy Gardens Plant Sale
Saturday, May 7, 10:00-2:00

All of our plants are certified organic and carefully selected and grown by our experienced farmers.

Troy Community Farm
502 Troy Drive
Madison, WI 53704
608/240-0409 or http://www.communitygroundworks.org/

Home Compost Bin & Rain Barrel Sale
Saturday, May 7, 10:00-2:00

Spring is here – and that means it’s time to quench your thirst for gardening at the Annual Compost Bin And Rain Barrel Truckload Sale.

It is estimated that our urban communities contribute about 30% of the total phosphorus that enter in lakes Mendota, Monona, Waubesa, Kegonsa, and Wingra from runoff. By harvesting rainwater for your indoor and outdoor plants and putting clippings and leaves into a backyard composters, you don’t just make plants healthier; you’re also reducing run-off and the phosphorus that feeds our algae problem.

Alliant Energy Center in The Olin Ave. parking lot
1919 Energy Center Way
Madison, WI 53713
608/266-4681 or http://www.cityofmadison.com/streets/compost/CompostBinSale.cfm

Crosstown Violet Club Sale
Saturday, May 7, 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.
This annual sale includes African violets, starter plants, blooming plants, leaves, gesneriads of all kinds, and potting soil and pots. Sponsored by the Sundowners and Crosstown African Violet clubs. For more information call 608/850-9740

Olbrich Botanical Gardens
3330 Atwood Ave., Madison
608/246-4550 or www.olbrich.org for details.

Luscious Lilacs
Wednesday, May 11, 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm
In the Longenecker Gardens

David Stevens will focus on the gardens’ large and renowned lilac collection—its history, fragrance, and form.

University of WI Arboretum
1207 Seminole Hwy.
Madison, WI 53711
608/263-7888 or uwarboretum.org/events

Garden Architecture Pioneering
Thursday, May 12, 6:00-8:00
Willy St. Co-op East Community Room

Instructor: Ben Becker
Fee: $10 for Owners; $20 for non-owners

Payment is required at registration; please register by stopping at the Willy East Customer Service desk or by calling (608) 251-6776.

Willy Street Co-op East
1221 Williamson Street
Madison, WI 53703
(608) 251-6776
www.willystreet.coop

Colorful Crabapples
Wednesday, May 18, 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm
In the Longenecker Gardens

Join David Stevens, curator of Longenecker Horticultural Gardens, to learn about the crabapple collection, the most up-to-date collection in the world.

University of WI Arboretum
1207 Seminole Hwy.
Madison, WI 53711
608/263-7888 or uwarboretum.org/events

Badger Bonsai Annual Show
Saturday, May 21, 9:00-4:30
Sunday, May 22, 10:00-4:30

Marvel at these growing miniature landscapes. Sponsored by the Badger Bonsai Society. For more information call 608/249-6195.

Olbrich Botanical Gardens
3330 Atwood Ave., Madison
608/246-4550 or www.olbrich.org for details.

Dane County UW-Extension’s
Teaching Garden Plant Sale
Sunday, May 22, 11:00-3:00 (rain date May 29)
Dane County UW-Extension Office
5201 Fen Oak Ct, Madison (just off Agriculture Dr. between Pflaum & Femrite)

Come celebrate the beginning of a new gardening season with us! Find plants that Master Gardeners have started from seed or carefully dug from their gardens. We offer hundreds of perennials for shade or sun, vegetable & herb starts, native plants, garden art and more! Master Gardeners will be available to answer your gardening questions and provide information on plant care. Proceeds will go to supporting the Teaching Gardens and help purchase seeds & supplies for gardening programs in the community. Cash or check only.

Madison Area Master Gardeners Association
PO Box 259318
Madison, WI, 53725
608/224-3721 or at www.mamgawi.org.

Late Woodland Wildflowers
Wednesday, May 22, 1:00 pm –3:00 pm
From the Visitor Center

The naturalist will lead a walk in Gallistel and Wingra Woods looking for wild geranium, wild blue phlox, and emerging ferns.

University of WI Arboretum
1207 Seminole Hwy.
Madison, WI 53711
608/263-7888 or uwarboretum.org/events

Rotary Garden’s Evening Garden Seminar: Tools & Other Tricks of the Trade
Tuesday, May 24, 6:30-8:30 p.m
Rotary Botanical Gardens, 1455 Palmer Drive, Janesville, WI

Every year there are new recommendations for tools out in the garden as well as those “how to” gardening suggestions. Over the years at Rotary Botanical Gardens, we’ve amassed a collection of “tried and true” tools that are the favorites of our volunteers. We’ll discuss tools but also share our overall approach to composting, mulching, fertilizing and other gardening duties.

Admission: $3 for RBG Friends members and $5 for the general public. No registration required

Seminar is conducted by Mark Dwyer, RBG Director of Horticulture

Rotary Botanical Gardens
1455 Palmer Drive
Janesville, WI
608/752-3885 or www.rotarygardens.org

Iris Show
Sunday, May 29, 12:00-5:00
Sponsored by the Madison Iris Society
For details call 608/271-3607

Cut irises in a rainbow of colors will be on display in the Evjue Commons. For more information call 608/271-3607

Olbrich Botanical Gardens
3330 Atwood Ave., Madison
608/246-4550 or www.olbrich.org for details.

Windsor Area Garden Club Plant Sale
Saturday, June 4, 9:00 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
Near the historical Lyster House in DeForest

As always we will have a wide variety of tried and true perennial plant divisions from our own gardens. We will also have a few annuals, vegetable, and misc. plants available. Come visit with our garden club members and receive help with general gardening questions in a welcoming environment. Master gardeners will also be available for more specific questions you may have. 100% of our profits will be donated to local charities.

For info visit www.facebook.com/windsorareagardenclub.

Garden Thyme Bus Tour
Saturday, June 4, 9:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.
Departure from River Arts on Water (590 Water St, Prairie du Sac)

Join us on a wonderful tour through the Sauk Prairie rural area. We will meet at River Arts on Water Gallery (590 Water Street in downtown Prairie du Sac, WI) at 9am. Then, climb onboard our comfy coach bus, sit back, and relax as we take you to 4 different kinds of gardens and 1 local bakery. During the ride, we will learn more about the 18 barn quilts along the tour (led by Kathy Hartmann-Breunig). We will return to the gallery around 1pm. Don’t forget to check out our plant sale happening the same day from 1pm-5pm next to the gallery! We will have sun, shade, and succulent plant options available.

We will also have a free flower arranging presentation and two art workshops in conjunction with this event.

For more information visit: www.riverartsinc.org/gardens/

Dane County Farmer’s Market
Saturdays, April 16 thru November 5, 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 8 through October 23, 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

MAY IN THE GARDEN—A checklist of things to do this month.
___By May 1, cool weather items like pansies, cole crops, onion sets, etc. should
already be planted.
___Sow successive crops of radishes and greens every 2 weeks.
___Mow your lawn frequently and at a high setting to control lawn weeds.
___Reseed bare spots in the lawn as needed.
___Begin hardening off your seedlings and overwintered plants. Move inside or cover on cold nights.
___Prep beds as soon as the soil is workable and not too wet.
___Till compost into beds.
___Perennials, shrubs and trees can now all be planted safely.
___Divide and propagate most perennials as desired (except peonies & iris)
___Plant strawberries and asparagus early in the month.
___Plant your leftover Easter Lily into the garden. They’ll bloom each July in the garden.
___Be prepared to move plants indoors if a sudden cold spell (or snow) hits.
___After May 10, begin setting out all plants, but KEEP AN EYE ON THE WEATHER!
___Sow beans and corn after the last scheduled frost date.
___After May 20, begin planting warm weather items: tomatoes, peppers, eggplants, cucumbers, coleus, impatiens etc.
___Mulch beds as needed to cut down on weeds and watering.
___Begin a weeding as needed. The smaller the weed, the easier to remove.
___Prune spring blooming as desired AFTER they are done flowering.
___Wait until after the foliage has yellowed to cut back daffodils, tulips, etc.
___Begin pinching tall perennials like asters, goldenrod, phlox, etc. for shorter and bushier plants.
___Visit Klein’s—SPRING PLANTING IS FINALLY HERE!

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 MAY:
—Transplanting continues!! Early in the month we finish transplanting the seedlings for spring sales. But during mid-month we begin transplanting the seedlings for our summer “Jumbo-Pack” program. Customers continue to purchase bedding annuals through the summer months. Sometimes they’re replacing plants that have succumbed to summer heat or heavy rains. Or maybe some quick color is needed for selling a house or having an outdoor party. Whatever the case, we can fill their needs.

—The spring onslaught is in full swing. The back greenhouses are filled floor to ceiling with plants awaiting purchase. Our outdoor space is a sea of color. Flats of plants waiting for sale fill most nooks and crannies of our property.

—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.

—Restocking is also constant. Cart loads of product are moved nearly continuously from our back greenhouses to the front showrooms.

—Believe it or not, but our fall mums arrive! The small plants are put into small pots now and then stepped into larger tubs later in the summer. They won’t be available for sale until mid-August.

PERMANENT FEATURES–
KLEIN’S MONTHLY NEWSLETTER
Have our monthly newsletter e-mailed to you automatically by signing up on the right side of our home page. We’ll offer monthly tips, greenhouse news and tidbits, specials and recipes. . .everything you need to know from your favorite Madison greenhouse. And tell your friends. It’s easy to do.

THE MAD GARDENER–“Madison’s Firsthand Source for Expert Gardening Advice”
Ask us your gardening questions by e-mailing us at madgardener@kleinsfloral.com. Klein’s in-house Mad Gardener will e-mail you with an answer as promptly as we can. The link is posted on our home page and in all newsletters.

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.

TO WRITE A REVIEW OF KLEIN’S, PLEASE LINK TO
Yelp, Google Reviews or Facebook Reviews

FACEBOOK
Follow Klein’s on Facebook where we post updates and photos on a regular basis.

TWITTER
Join Klein’s on Twitter where we post company updates and photos on a regular basis.

SENIOR CITIZEN DISCOUNT
We offer a 10% Off Senior Citizen Discount every Tuesday to those 62 and above. This discount is not in addition to other discounts or sales. Please mention that you are a senior before we ring up your purchases. Does not apply to wire out orders or services, i.e. delivery, potting, etc.

RECYCLING POTS & TRAYS
Plastic flower pots and garden edging can now be recycled as part of the City of Madison’s rigid plastic program. Flowerpots and edging must be free of dirt and can be placed in your green recycling bin. For more information call 267-2626 or visit www.cityofmadison.com/streets/recycling/plastic.cfm

KLEIN’S “BLOOMING PLANT OR FRESH FLOWER CLUB”
Send or receive 3 month’s, 6 month’s or a whole year’s worth of seasonal blooming plants or fresh flower arrangements and SAVE!!

There’s no easier way to give gorgeous blooming plants or fresh flower arrangements, month after month. Each month a seasonal blooming plant or fresh arrangement will arrive on yours or a loved one’s doorstep. You choose the start date and we’ll make your special delivery the very same day each month.

For just $75, $150 or $300, respectively, we’ll send 3 month’s, 6 month’s or a year’s worth of seasonal blooming plants–perhaps a bulb garden or azalea in the spring, one of our famous large geraniums or a tropical hibiscus in the summer, a chrysanthemum or Thanksgiving cactus in the fall or one of our homegrown poinsettias or cyclamen for the holidays and winter months. Selection of the blooming plant will be based on availability.

And for just $90, $175 or $350, respectively, receive one of Klein’s lovely fresh floral arrangements. All arrangements will be seasonal and will contain only the freshest flowers. All arrangements are Designer’s Choice, but are sure to satisfy the most discerning lover of fresh flowers.

Prices include delivery within our delivery area. Enclosure cards will accompany all gift deliveries if desired. For delivery details visit the “Permanent Features” section of our newsletter below. If your chosen delivery date happens to fall on a Sunday or holiday, we will deliver it on the next available delivery day. All regular delivery conditions apply.

Join our Blooming Plant or Fresh Flower Club by calling Klein’s at 608/244-5661 or 888/244-5661 or by stopping in. We request that payment be made in full before the first delivery and prices do not include sales tax.

DELIVERY INFO
Klein’s Floral and Greenhouses delivers daily, except Sundays, throughout all of Madison and much of Dane County including: Cottage Grove, DeForest, Fitchburg, Maple Bluff, Marshall, McFarland, Middleton, Monona, Oregon, Shorewood Hills, Sun Prairie, Verona, Waunakee and Windsor. We do not deliver to Cambridge, Columbus, Deerfield or Stoughton.
Current delivery rate on 1-4 items is $7.95 for Madison, Maple Bluff, Monona and Shorewood Hills; $8.95 for Cottage Grove, DeForest, Fitchburg, McFarland, Sun Prairie, Waunakee and Windsor; and $9.95 for Marshall, Middleton, Oregon and Verona. An additional $3.00 will be added for deliveries of 4-10 items and $5.00 added for deliveries of more than 10 items. For deliveries requiring more than one trip, a separate delivery charge will be added for each trip.

A minimum order of $25.00 is required for delivery.
We not only deliver our fabulous fresh flowers, but also houseplants, bedding plants and hardgoods. There may be an extra charge for very large or bulky items.
Delivery to the Madison hospitals is $5.95. Deliveries to the four Madison hospitals are made during the early afternoon. Items are delivered to the hospital’s volunteer rooms and not directly to the patients’ rooms per hospital rules.
There is no delivery charge for funerals in the city of Madison or Monona, although normal rates apply for morning funeral deliveries to Madison’s west side (west of Park St.). Our normal rates also apply for funeral deliveries in the surrounding communities at all times. Although we don’t deliver on Sundays, we will deliver funeral items on Sundays at the regular delivery rate.

Morning delivery is guaranteed to the following Madison zip codes, but only if requested: 53703, 53704, 53714, 53716, 53718 and Cottage Grove, DeForest, Maple Bluff, Marshall, McFarland, Monona, Sun Prairie, Waunakee and Windsor.
We begin our delivery day at 8:00 a.m. and end at approximately 3:00 p.m. We do not usually deliver after 4:00 unless specific exceptions are made with our drivers.
Except for holidays, the following west-side zip codes and communities are delivered only during the afternoon: 53705, 53706, 53711, 53713, 53717, 53719, 53726, Fitchburg, Middleton, Oregon, Shorewood Hills and Verona.
During holidays (Christmas, Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, etc.) we are able to make morning deliveries to all of the above areas. We are not able to take closely timed deliveries on any holiday due to the sheer volume of such requests.
It’s best to give us a range of time and we’ll try our absolute hardest. Orders for same day delivery must be placed by 12:30 p.m. or by 2:30 p.m. for Madison zip codes 53704 and 53714.

DEPARTMENT HEADS: Please refer all questions, concerns or feedback in the following departments to their appropriate supervisor.
Phone: 608/244-5661 or 888/244-5661

Horticulturalist & General Manager–Jamie VandenWymelenberg jamie@kleinsfloral.com
Accounts, Billing and Purchasing—Kathryn Derauf kathryn@kleinsfloral.com
Delivery Supervisor & Newsletter Coordinator—Rick Halbach rick@kleinsfloral.com
Owner, Floral Designer & Purchasing—Sue Klein sue@kleinsfloral.com

RELATED RESOURCES AND WEB SITES
University of Wisconsin Extension
1 Fen Oak Ct. #138
Madison, WI 53718
608/224-3700
http://hort.uwex.edu

Plant Disease Diagnostics Clinic
Dept. of Plant Pathology
1630 Linden Dr.
Madison, WI 53706
http://www.plantpath.wisc.edu/index.php

Insect Diagnostic Lab
240 Russell Labs
1630 Linden Dr.
Madison, WI 53706
http://www.entomology.wisc.edu/

U.W. Soil and Plant Analysis Lab
8452 Mineral Point Rd.
Verona, WI 53593
608/262-4364
http://uwlab.soils.wisc.edu/

American Horticultural Society
http://www.ahs.org/

Garden Catalogs (an extensive list with links)
http://www.gardenlist.com/
also http://www.mailordergardening.com/

Invasive Species
http://www.invasiveplants.net/
http://www.ipaw.org/

Community Groundworks
3601 Memorial Dr., Ste. 4
Madison, WI 53704
608/240-0409
http://www.communitygroundworks.org

Madison Area Master Gardeners (MAMGA)
http://mamgawi.org/

Wisconsin Master Gardeners Program
Department of Horticulture
1575 Linden Drive
University of Wisconsin – Madison
Madison, WI 53706
608/265-4504
http://wimastergardener.org

The Wisconsin Gardener
http://www.wpt.org/garden/

Allen Centennial Gardens
620 Babcock Dr.
Madison, WI 53706
608/262-8406
http://www.allencentennialgardens.org/

Olbrich Botanical Gardens
3330 Atwood Ave.
Madison, WI 53704
608/246-4550
http://www.olbrich.org/

Rotary Gardens
1455 Palmer Dr.
Janesville, WI 53545
608/752-3885
http://www.rotarygardens.org/

University of WI Arboretum
1207 Seminole Hwy.
Madison, WI 53711
608/263-7888
http://uwarboretum.org/

University of Wisconsin-West Madison
Agricultural Research Center
8502 Mineral Point Rd.
Verona, WI 53593
608/262-2257
http://www.cals.wisc.edu/westmad/

PLANTS POISONOUS TO CHILDREN:
Children may find the bright colors and different textures of plants irresistible, but some plants can be poisonous if touched or eaten. If you’re in doubt about whether or not a plant is poisonous, don’t keep it in your home. The risk is not worth it. The following list is not comprehensive, so be sure to seek out safety information on the plants in your home to be safe.

Bird of paradise
Bull nettle
Castor bean
Chinaberry tree
Crocus
Daffodil
Deadly nightshade
Dieffenbachia (dumb cane)
Foxglove
Glory lily
Hemlock
Holly berry
Indian tobacco
Iris
Jimsonweed
Lantana
Larkspur
Lily of the valley
Marijuana
Mescal bean
Mexicantes
Mistletoe
Morning glory
Mountain laurel
Night-blooming jasmine
Nutmeg
Oleander
Philodendron
Poison ivy
Poison sumac
Pokeweed
Poppy
Potato
Privet
Rhododendron
Rhubarb
Water hemlock
Wisteria

PLANTS POISONOUS TO PETS:
Below is a list of some of the common plants which may produce a toxic reaction in animals. This list is intended only as a guide to plants which are generally identified as having the capability for producing a toxic reaction. Source: The National Humane Society website @ http://www.humanesociety.org/

Aconite
Apple
Arrowgrasses
Autumn Crocus
Azaleas
Baneberry
Bird-of-Paradise
Black locust
Bloodroot
Box
Buckeye
Buttercup
Caladium
Carolina jessamine
Castor bean
Chinaberry tree
Chockcherries
Christmas berry
Christmas Rose
Common privet
Corn cockle
Cowbane
Cow cockle
Cowsliprb
Daffodil
Daphne
Day lily
Delphinium (Larkspur)
Dumbcane
Dutchman’s breeches
Easter lily
Elderberry
Elephant’s ear
English Ivy
European Bittersweet
Field peppergrass
Foxglove
Holly
Horsechestnut
Horse nettle
Hyacinth
Iris
Jack-in-the-pulpit
Jerusalem Cherry
Jimsonweed
Lantana
Larkspur
Laurels
Lily of the valley
Lupines
Mayapple
Milk vetch
Mistletoe
Monkshood
Morning glory
Mustards
Narcissus
Nicotiana
Nightshade
Oaks
Oleander
Philodendrons
Pokeweed
Poinsettia
Poison hemlock
Potato
Rhododendron
Rhubarb
Rosary pea
Sago palm
Skunk cabbage
Smartweeds
Snow-on-the-mountain
Sorghum
Star of Bethlehem
Wild black cherry
Wild radish
Wisteria
Yellow jessamine
Yew

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May 1, 2016 Newsletter

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