‘THE SAGE’-Klein’s Online Newsletter—JANUARY 2018
Klein’s Floral & Greenhouses
THIS MONTH’S HIGHLIGHTS:
Rebuilding Is Progressing Quickly and YES…WE ARE OPEN FOR BUSINESS!
Ever Thought about Working at a Garden Center?….
Wisconsin Public Television Garden Expo Feb. 9-11
The Floral Department Moves Front & Center @ the ‘New’ Klein’s
10 Simple Secrets to a Better Garden…Faster
Our ‘Mad Gardener’ Is Ready for Your Questions
8 Common Herbs That Make Any Meal Instantly Healthier
Klein’s Favorite Seed, Bulb & Plant Sources
You Asked the Mad Gardener About a Buggy Abutilon
Plant of the Month: Pothos (Devil’s Ivy)
Klein’s Favorite Veggie Hash & Succotash Recipes
Product Spotlight: Potting Mixes from Black Gold®
Notes from Rick’s Garden Journal—From December 2017
—Feeding Houseplants During Winter
—A Surprising Home Invader..the Meadow Vole
—Easy-to-Grow Moth Orchids
January 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
OUR NEW BUILDINGS ARE UP AND TAKING SHAPE!
…and we are open in our temporary retail space in our growing greenhouses at the back of the property with easy access from both East Washington Ave. and Stoughton Rd.
We continue to receive fresh shipments of houseplants, air plants, succulents & cacti, blooming plants and so much more!
In addition, Klein’s growers are currently busy ordering product for the 2018 spring season for our brand new state-of-the-art garden center scheduled to open early this year.
Our floral cooler is stocked daily with fresh arrangements and cut flowers and designers are available for all of your floral needs. Floral orders and daily deliveries continue as usual and can be made by calling our designers at 608-244-5661 or online at www.kleinsfloral.com. Our goal is to keep everything running as close to status quo as possible during construction.
Follow our progress on www.facebook.com/kleinsflorala
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.
JANUARY STORE HOURS:
Monday thru Friday : 8:00-6:00
Saturday: 9:00-5:00
Sunday: 10:00-4:00
CALENDAR OF EVENTS:
January 1–New Year’s Day. HAPPY 2018!
January 1–Full Moon
January 13 & 14—The Wedding Planner and Guide Bridal Show at the Alliant Energy Center. From start to finish, everything needed for that special day is at the show with over 200 vendors offering products and services catering to your needs. Make sure to get a seat for the daily fashion show at 2 pm. Open 11:00-4:00 both Saturday and Sunday. Tickets are $7 in advance @ www.brownpapertickets.com/even
If a wedding is on your horizon, set up your free wedding consultation as early as possible. Our schedule fills up fairly quickly. Klein’s talented team of designers can make your wedding day a perfect one. Call Sue (sue@kleinsfloral.com) or Darcy at 608/244-5661 or floral@kleinsfloral.com.
Mid January–Seeds begin arriving for retail sale. Believe it or not, it’s time to start thinking about spring planting. If starting your own seeds at home, some such as lisianthus, geraniums, pentas and bananas should be started now so they are ready for spring planting. Klein’s carries an extensive seed selection from Seed Savers, Botanical Interests, Livingston Seeds and Olds Seeds.
January 15–Martin Luther King Jr. Day
Throughout January—Have you ever thought about working at a garden center? Perhaps now’s the time to explore the possibility.
And by spring 2018 we’ll be in our new state-of-the-art modern facility!!
January is the time to stop in and and pick up an application or fill it out online @ kleinsfloral.com/employment/. By the end of February we try to have most of our hiring in place.
We’re always in need of temporary, part-time counter help in the spring and greenhouse production swings into gear by mid-February. If you’re interested, ask for Sue or Kathryn for the retail area or Jamie or Rick for the greenhouses. Benefits include flexible hours, a generous discount on all purchases and a stimulating and fun work environment. Join our team and experience first hand how we make the magic happen.
February 9-11—Wisconsin Public Television’s Garden Expo at the Alliant Energy Center. Please join us. Tickets are now available at Klein’s for a lesser price than at the door. Details available at www.wigardenexpo.com.
February 14–Valentine’s Day. Order early for guaranteed delivery. We deliver throughout Madison and most of Dane County.
‘THE FLOWER SHOPPE’:
If you’ve driven by Klein’s over the past month, you certainly can’t miss how quickly Klein’s new greenhouses and retail center are taking shape. The walls are all up, the windows and doors have been installed and all the rooms and departments inside have been framed in. We’re still on target for a late winter or early spring move in.
Among the biggest differences between the ‘old’ Klein’s and the new is the fact that our floral department will be front and center, rather than in the basement of an old farmhouse. Many customers, even regulars, were unaware that Klein’s even had an on-site floral department; among the oldest and most established floral shops in Madison.
The new floral department will be state-of-the art and is located literally in the center of the new retail center; with an open concept design, a large counter area and work space for our designers to consult with customers and create; in addition to a large, well-stocked, built-in cooler for our customers to grab-and-go floral arrangements and fresh loose flowers. Consultations for weddings, funerals and special events will take place in a beautiful, well-lit and air conditioned space set away from the hustle and bustle of the garden center.
As we settle into our new space, our one goal is to make Klein’s Floral one of Madison’s go-to flower shops; offering unique, one-of-a-kind designs hand-in-hand with Klein’s personal and unparalleled customer service.
YOU ASKED THE MAD GARDENER . . .
I purchased a small abutilon last spring and planted it in the ground. This fall I potted it and brought it inside and have it in a sunny window. It continues to do well, but it also seems to be host to dozens of tiny flying insects. I’m not sure whether these came in with the plant or somewhere else and are using the abutilon as home base. I have sprayed with insect spray twice, but there are still lots of them. Is it a losing battle? MJ
Hi MJ,
Abutilons make for great indoor plants and are one of just a few garden plants that will bloom all winter long if placed in a bright location. I personally collect them and have cuttings from some that are now 20 years old.
First off, we really need to figure out what the insect is before we act. I suggest bringing a few leaves in a ziplock bag in to Klein’s or any garden center (insects and all) for us to diagnose.
If the insects are whiteflies (to which abutilons are prone), your attack should be aggressive. Sprays will kill the adults, but the egg cases are impenetrable and the insects will continue to hatch and will require subsequent sprayings. A systemic pesticide would eventually help rid the plant of the whiteflies for good. However, whiteflies can attack other indoor plants. Hibiscus are among the worst.
On the other hand, the flies could simply be fungus gnats. These are harmless flies that float around like tiny fruit flies. Their young are soil borne and thrive in rich, well-watered soil. The adults are a nuisance around the house, but nothing more. They are very common in the soil from plants that are brought indoors. To control them, we recommend letting the soil dry out between waterings and to place a thin layer of sand over the soil surface so the females can’t lay their eggs. There are chemical means to rid your soil of fungus gnat larvae, but I generally recommend managing the conditions of the soil where the larvae thrive.
Thanks for your question,
Klein’s Mad Gardener
DID YOU KNOW. . .
. . .that are easy ways for you to have a better garden in no time?
10 Simple Secrets to a Better Garden…Faster
by Scott Beuerlein, Horticulturist at the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden
Excerpted from Horticulture Magazine @ www.hortmag.com from Sept/Oct 2017
Is It Tough to Have a Better Garden?
My dad used to blather such platitudes as, “If it’s worth doing, it’s worth doing right.” Back when I cut his grass, I gotta say I hadn’t fully bought in. Now, closing in on 60, I think he might have been on to something. Take gardening: You put a lot of blood, sweat and tears into it. Not screwing it up should be a priority.
Problem is, gardening is hard. Variables come from every direction. Weather, pests, pestilence, our own capricious decisions. Moreover, to fully master it, a person must be equally adept at science and art. That’s rare!
What a Better Garden Means
Let’s define a “better garden.” Who is the judge? Your neighbor? Maybe your HOA? Oh, hell no! You should be the judge. But while gardens can and should be as diverse as the gardeners who tend them, some are certainly better than others. What sets them apart?
First, a better garden needs to function—live and thrive. Second, it should be reasonably low maintenance. Last but not least, it should be generally thought of as attractive. Pretty much the same traits we desire in a spouse, right? So simply try to build a garden just a little out of your league, and you’ll be ahead of the game.
1. Don’t Listen To Fools
For good information, go to the best—your local county extension agents, public garden horticulturists, the local legends in the plant-society chapters and proven gardeners. Ingratiate yourself into the local gardening social web. Latch onto people with real training and/or years of experience, as opposed to those cocksure firebrands who’ve read a few books and gardened a couple of years and bundled that into a rat’s nest of attitude and doctrine. On the web, look for .edu suffixes, which will connote a university as the source, or .org suffixes, for most botanical gardens.
2. Successful Gardens Start at Ground Level
Build your garden beds as if that is how you’ll be forever judged. Soil prep: Learn it! Nothing else matters as much as good soil for surviving and thriving gardens. Ask your extension agent how to do a soil test. Have them help you interpret the results. Then, do what they say.
3. Resist Temptation
Easier said than done. So many cool, novel varieties are on the market. Sure, have some fun dabbling with the new stuff. I do. And sure as anything, some of those plants will even become the standard bearers of the future. But for the bulk of your garden, and for all of your important specimens, go with the tried and true. And be sure to web-search regional plant trials for reliable info.
4. Visit Gardens
There’s no better way to develop your own vision than by visiting other gardens. In them, over time, you’ll discover what you like, what you don’t and inspiration to guide you to your potential.
5. Don’t Fear the Reaper
And when that “hardy” camellia you impulsively bought for your USDA Zone 6 garden gives up the ghost, sure, be sad. But remember, you still get to live. Make note and carry on. And don’t be afraid to edit. Sometimes you are the reaper. When something isn’t working, fix it. Often, that means the removal of a perfectly healthy plant you paid good money for, or one that dear Aunt Agnes bequeathed to you. No matter. Ugly is ugly, and you have a compost bin.
6. Get Good Books
You should own at least one book on design, a handful on proper plant care, plant manuals and Principles of Gardening by Hugh Johnson. Other authors I like are Armitage, Cullina, Darke, Dirr, DiSabato-Aust, Druse and Sara Stein. Need more? Check the bibliographies of their books.
7. Grow Plants from Seeds in Containers
Seriously, this is your portal to proficiency. It will acquaint you with everything from water, soil, fertility, light, plant biology and how all of that comes together to create a green and better garden. Google “Norm Deno seed germination theory and practice.” What a great free resource.You’ll find that literally everything you learn growing plants indoors, and then in containers outdoors, directly applies in the garden. Zero to fifty-five right here, folks. And you’ll have a cheap and abundant supply of plants for yourself and others.
8. Don’t Overreact
Don’t do, without careful consideration, what cannot be undone. Think through such things as where you plant a big tree, or what you prune off, or who you spray. More harm comes to gardens by folks overreacting to issues than by the issues themselves.
9. Be Observant
Walk your garden regularly, and note changes—for better and for worse. Did your oak defoliate earlier than normal? Is the color of your holly not quite right? No chance to learn from something if you never see it happen.
10. Most Important, Have Fun
Enjoy the beauty you create. Keep growing. Improve. Share with others. And, yeah, the sooner the better.
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.
Bagged Potting Mixes from Black Gold®
‘All the Riches of the Earth’
About Black Gold
Since 1983, Black Gold® brand potting soils and garden amendments have been available at fine garden centers and have gained a loyal customer following nationwide. All Black Gold® products are professionally formulated to ensure gardening success, and many have been certified by the Mulch & Soil Council, which assures they are made from the highest quality ingredients. It also boasts a broad line of natural and organic gardening products that are listed by the Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI) and approved for organic gardening.
The parent company of Black Gold® is Sun Gro Horticulture, a world-class company specializing in both professional and retail growing mixes and fertilizers. In fact, Sun Gro has been a leading producer of quality products for the nation’s top 100 commercial growers, so you can feel confident its retail brands meet the same exceptional standards.
Klein’s carries the following Black Gold potting mixes and amendments:
Black Gold Natural & Organic Potting Mix
Contains: Canadian Sphagnum Peat Moss, Composted or Aged Bark, Compost, Earthworm Castings, RESiLIENCE®, Horticultural Grade Perlite, Pumice, or Cinders, Organic Grade Fertilizer
Black Gold Cactus Mix
Contains: Horticultural Grade Perlite, Pumice, or Cinders, Earthworm Castings, Compost, Bark
Black Gold African Violet Potting Mix
Contains: Organic Grade Fertilizer, Horticultural Grade Perlite, Pumice, or Cinders, Earthworm Castings, Compost, Composted or Aged Bark, Canadian Sphagnum Peat Moss
Black Gold Seedling Mix
Contains: Organic Wetting Agent, Perlite, RESiLIENCE®, Canadian Sphagnum Peat Moss
Klein’s also carries Black Gold Perlite and Black Gold Canadian Sphagnum Peat Moss.
NOTES FROM MY GARDEN JOURNAL–Tips and Observations from My Own Garden by Rick Halbach
ENTRY: DECEMBER 2, 2017 (Feeding Houseplants During Winter)
When I got home from work this afternoon, one of my neighbors stopped by with a few questions about overwintering a few garden plants and what to with certain houseplants during the upcoming winter months. One of her questions was about fertilizing. We receive this question quite often at work this time of the year; especially as houseplants begin looking a little peaked as the days shorten and houses cool.
Beginning in October, as the days shorten, most indoor plants require not only less water, but little if any fertilizer. Because there is naturally little or no growth during the winter months, it can actually be harmful to your plants to encourage new growth during this time. Therefore, it is best advised to begin cutting back on indoor fertilizing progressively during the months of September and October, stopping completely during November and then not fertilizing again until the end of February when the days begin to lengthen. During March and April slowly increase your fertilizing to normal strength by May 1. From May thru August fertilize at full strength per package instructions. Never exceed recommended amounts. There are exceptions to this rule. For example, plants grown under timed light replicating longer days can be fertilized lightly throughout the winter, as with plants growing actively on sunny windowsills, where more watering is required. For ease, one can use fertilizer drops (such as Bonide or Miracle-Gro) at half strength with each watering even during the winter months. At this diluted rate, plants remain healthy and rich green, with little or no growth. Again, go back to full strength by May.
But most importantly, water most indoor plants during the winter only when rather dry below the soil surface, rather than to the touch. Overwatering, more than any other reason, is the cause of death during our long Wisconsin winters.
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ENTRY: DECEMBER 3, 2017 (A Surprising Home Invader..the Meadow Vole)
Yikes! When checking my plants that I’m overwintering in the basement root cellar, I noticed that many of the pots had been quite deeply dug into. Upon further investigation (I saw the culprits), I found that voles had invaded the root cellar (perhaps brought in with potted plants) and had begun devouring the roots of many of them…especially my salvias and agapanthus. Luckily (I think), I caught the damage early enough to stop any further damage by replacing the soil and placing a rodenticide meant specifically for voles near the plants.
The meadow vole is a rodent with a rounded, stocky body, short tail and a blunt nose. The size and color of this large vole depend on location.
The most common North American voles, the meadow voles inhabit a huge territory, stretching eastwards from central Alaska to the Atlantic coast and southwards to the Canadian border (Rocky Mountains), Georgia and even New Mexico. The primary habitats of this species are meadows, lawns, lowland fields, grassy marshes and areas along rivers and lakes. Meadow voles may also occur in flooded marshes, orchards, high grasslands, located near water as well as open, grassy woodlands.
The meadow voles may be active throughout the day. However, they are more diurnal during the winter months, and are more nocturnal in summer. Territories of males are overlapping and about 3 times bigger than these of females. Meanwhile, females of this species display highly territorial behavior, fiercely defending their home ranges. If a group of more than one female occurs in the same territory, it’s likely to be a mother and her daughters. Usually solitary, in winters these animals gather in nesting groups of non-overlapping maternal families. These families consist of non-breeding animals of both sexes and different ages. Meadow voles are excellent diggers and swimmers. These animals are known to make long runways through vegetation, where they store waste products. In order to defend themselves, meadow voles may use vocalizations.
As herbivorous animals, meadow voles primarily consume fresh grass, sedges and herbs, supplementing their diet with occasional seeds and grains. In winter, they may also use bark and roots of shrubs and small trees; causing great damage to unprotected garden plants.
Meadow voles have a polygynandrous (promiscuous) mating system, where individuals of both sexes mate with multiple mates. These animals breed year-round with a peak period, occurring in spring and autumn, between March and November. Gestation period lasts for 20 – 21 days, yielding up to 11 young with an average of 4 – 5. Female gives birth in a nest, located above or just beneath the surface of the ground. Those in swampy areas build their nests in the center of a grass tussock. Young voles live in the nest, growing up very quickly. Weaning occurs at 12 – 14 days old. Females of this species reach sexual maturity within the first month of their lives.
Fun facts:
—Voles, along with the closely related hamsters, belong to the family of Cricetidae.
—When threatened, a meadow vole usually stamps its hind legs like a rabbit.
—The species first appeared in the Late Pleistocene. Presently, the meadow vole is very common in fossil record.
—Meadow voles are very productive breeders. Females of this species are able to produce over 10 letters of up to 11 young annually. Moreover, there has been known a case of a captive meadow mole, having produced as many as 17 litters in a single year.
—These animals are able to eat as much as 60% of its body per day. They usually feed a sitting up position. When gnaw bark or a grain stalk, they have to stand.
—Voles communicate through sharp or quiet squealing sounds as well as chemical signals and scent marks.
Source: http://animalia.bio
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ENTRY: DECEMBER 26, 2017 (Easy-to-Grow Moth Orchids)
As I was watering my indoor plants today, I noticed that each of my seven moth orchids (Phalaenopsis) is right on schedule sending up one or more new flower stalks; both from the base and from last year’s flower stalks. some of my orchids are now ten or more years old and bloom more vigorously nowadays than when I purchased them. My moth orchids all bloom reliably during late winter when the house is kept cool and the days are short. Once blooming, the plants will continue to bloom well into summer and once I’ve moved them back outdoors again for the summer months.
Moth orchids are among the most rewarding orchids to grow for both beginner and expert alike. Their relative ease of care makes them the perfect leap into the vast world of orchid growing. Compared to most orchid types, plants are relatively undemanding and readily available year round; and at a very affordable price. Blooms are showy and very long-lasting, oftentimes lasting up to four or more months. And unlike most orchids, plants oftentimes rebloom on old flower stalks so long as the stalk remains green. (Therefore, flower stalks should not be pruned back to the plant unless they turn completely brown.) The leaves are large and leathery. Plants are generally not prone to pests and love to spend our humid summers outdoors in a shady location. Doing so encourages vigorous growth and a greater chance of reblooming. Natural bloomtime is generally in late winter and early spring.
Care of Phalaenopsis Orchids
Light–The Phalaenopsis orchids grow well near bright windows, with no direct sun light. An east window is ideal in the home; shaded south or west windows are acceptable. In dull, northern winter climates, a full southern exposure may be required. Artificial lighting is acceptable. Two- or four-tube fixtures are suspended six inches to one foot above the foliage, 12 to 16 hours daily. In a greenhouse, heavy shade must be provided to allow 800 to 1,500 f-c of light. No shadow should be seen if you hold your hand one foot above the leaves. If leaves are hot, reduced light intensity.
Temperature for Phalaenopsis should be above 60 °F at night and between 70° and 82 °F during the day. Although higher temperatures result in fast leaf and root growth, lower light and good air movement must accompany. Do not exceed the limit of 95°F. Temperatures below 78 °F for three to five weeks with good light are needed for initiating flower spikes. Wide fluctuating temperatures and low humidity can cause bud drop on plants with flower buds ready to open.
Water is especially critical for this orchid. The medium should never be allowed to dry out completely. Plants should be thoroughly watered and not watered again until nearly dry, but not until bone dry. In the heat of the summer in a dry climate, this may be every two to three days, whereas during the winter of a northern climate, it may be every ten or more days. Do not allow water to accumulate in the crown for long to avoid contract decaying diseases. Do not sit pots in standing water for long.
Humidity is recommended to be between 50% and 80% of relative humidity. If RH is lower than 40% in the home, set plants on trays of gravel, partially filled with water so that pots never sit in water. Grouping plants together can slightly raise the humidity in the immediate surrounding area. In humid climates, such as in a greenhouse, it is imperative that the humid air is moving to prevent fungal or bacterial diseases to set in.
Fertilizer should be applied on a regular schedule, especially if the weather is warm when plants are actively growing. Application of a complete fertilizer, such as Miracle Gro, Peters 20-20-20 or similar, at a rate of half to one teaspoon per one gallon of good quality water at each watering. Reduce this frequency to every other or third watering when it is cool (from November thru February). Make sure that an ample amount of water is applied to allow some excess water to drain from each pot. Water with a high salt concentration should be avoided.
Potting is best done in late spring or early summer after blooming has completed. Phalaenopsis plants must be potted in quick draining mixes, such as fir bark, tree fern fiber, chunky sphagnum peat, charcoal, perlite, or combinations of these. Root rot will occur if plants are allowed to sit in an old, soggy medium. Your young plants should grow fast enough to need repotting yearly and should be potted in a finer grade medium to allow good root contact. Mature plants are potted in a coarser medium may stay in the same pots for years, provided that medium is changed when needed. To repot, remove all old medium from the roots, trim off rotted roots, and spread the remaining roots over a handful of medium in a pot. Fill the rest of the pot with medium, working through the roots, so that the junction of the upper roots and the stem is slightly below the medium. Be careful not to leave large air pockets in pots. Use a stick to push the medium in between the roots. Keep plants in shade and wait for one to three days before watering.
KLEIN’S RECIPES OF THE MONTH—These are a selection of relatively simple recipes chosen by our staff. New recipes appear monthly. Enjoy!!
Hash:
(noun) a dish consisting of diced or chopped meat and/or vegetables, usually sautéed in a frying pan.
Succotash:
(noun) a cooked skillet dish of kernels of corn mixed with shell beans, especially lima beans, and, often, with green and sweet red peppers.
WINTER VEGETABLE HASH–“I have made this dish for company, and every time they ask for the recipe! I hope everyone else likes it as much as we do!” Source: allrecipes.com
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons butter
1 pound Yukon Gold potatoes, diced
1/2 pound fresh shiitake mushrooms, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 small acorn squash, diced
1 shallot, finely chopped
2 teaspoons garlic powder
1 pinch salt
1 pinch ground black pepper
1 cup chopped kale
4 sprigs fresh sage
Place oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Melt butter and mix in potatoes, mushrooms, pepper, squash, and shallot. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook 25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until potatoes are tender. Mix kale and sage into skillet. Continue cooking 5 minutes, until kale is wilted. Serves 4.
SUMMER VEGETABLE HASH—Summer vegetable hash made in one skillet and topped with poached eggs. With zucchini, corn, tomatoes, and bell peppers, this vegetarian dish is a delicious way to use up summer garden vegetables. Source: yummymummykitchen.com
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
1 yellow onion, diced
1 cup diced Yukon gold potato
1 teaspoon dried all purpose seasoning blend
sea salt
1 cup diced red or yellow bell pepper
1 zucchini, diced
1 ear corn, kernels sliced off
1 cup halved cherry tomatoes
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
eggs (as many as you’d like or none at all!)
1 tablespoon white vinegar
1-2 avocados, for serving
sriracha or favorite hot sauce, for serving (optional)
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium low heat. Add onion and potato, and lightly season with a pinch of salt. Cook until golden and lightly browned, stirring occasionally, about 5 minutes.
Add the bell pepper, zucchini, corn, and tomatoes, and continue to cook until tender. Feel free to toss in any other veggie you have around and would like to use up! Season to taste with salt and pepper, and more seasoning blend. Sprinkle with parsley.
To poach the eggs, bring 1-2 inches of water to a simmer in a large saucepan. Add the vinegar. Crack 1 egg into a small bowl and then slowly pour it into the pot of simmering water. Repeat with any remaining eggs, one at a time. Cook at a low simmer until cooked to desired doneness, about 5 minutes.
Serve the hash warm with eggs, avocado, and sriracha.
*VEGAN OPTION: Omit the eggs and replace the protein with a cup of cannellini beans stirred in with the veggies. Serves 4.
IRON SKILLET SUCCOTASH—from Bon Appetit magazine, from November 2010
3 TBS. butter
1 large onion cut into 1/2” dice
4 medium zucchini cut into 1/2” cubes
2 large red bell peppers cut into 1/2” pcs.
1x 10 oz. bag of frozen lima beans or edamame, partially frozen
1x 10 oz. pkg. frozen corn, partially frozen
1 tsp. dried marjoram
coarse salt to taste
Melt butter in heavy large skillet (preferably cast iron) over medium-high heat. Add onion; cook until golden, about 5 minutes. Add zucchini and peppers; cook until beginning to soften, stirring often, about 5 minutes. Add lima beans and corn; cook until heated through, stirring constantly, about 5 minutes. Mix in marjoram. Season with coarse salt and black pepper. Transfer succotash to large bowl and serve. Serves 10.
SUMMER SUCCOTASH—From the Willie St. Co-op newsletter from August 2007.
1 1/2 cups green beans cut into 1” pcs.
1 1/2 TBS. olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 cups corn kernels, fresh or frozen
1 heaping cup chopped tomatoes
1/3 cup water
2 small summer squash, diced
1 small hot chile pepper, seeded and minced or 1x 4 oz. can minced chiles, drained
1 TBS. cider vinegar
salt & pepper to taste
Steam the green beans until they are tender crisp and plunge into cold water. Drain and set aside. Heat the oil in a large wide skillet. Add the onion and garlic and sauté on low until translucent. Add all of the ingredients except the beans and stir well. Cover and simmer gently 15 minutes or until just done. Add the beans and simmer 5 minutes more.
NATURAL NEWS–
8 Common Herbs That Make Any Meal Instantly Healthier
You don’t need supplements to boost your mineral intake—just grow a windowsill garden!
By Emily Main
Source: www.rodalesorganiclife.com
What’s the quickest way to load your dinner down with antioxidants? Add oregano. Need more iron? Add lavender. If you’re not cooking with fresh herbs, you’re missing out nature’s real miracles, tiny taste-enhancers loaded with compounds that add antioxidants and vital minerals to every dish, and some that can even cut down on toxic chemicals that form while cooking. Even if you don’t care about nutrition, they’ll all help you make totally killer meals sure to impress anyone.
A Note: All of the following herbs except lemongrass and cilantro are currently available at Klein’s in 5” pots for windowsill culture.
Thyme:
One of the most commonly used medicinal herbs, thyme has been used for everything from killing germs to curing colds. But don’t just relegate it to your medicine cabinet. Two teaspoons of the herb pack in nearly 20 percent of your daily requirement for iron, and it’s also rich in manganese, a mineral that boosts brain function and aids in healthy bone, skin, and cartilage formation.
Parsley:
Two tablespoons of fresh parsley will provide more than 150 percent of your daily requirement for vitamin K, which plays an important role in blood clotting, proper bone formation, and liver function. A super side benefit of eating parsley is that the herb’s odor-beating chlorophyll will freshen your breath—which might spice things up in your bedroom. The ancient Greeks utilized parsley as an aphrodisiac.
Lemongrass:
This aromatic, citrusy grass is probably best known for its prevalence in Southeast Asian cuisine. And exotic lemongrass—which derives its flavor and scent from the same compound found in lemon zest—is not only a great addition to recipes, but also is prized in natural medicine for its ability to relieve fever, muscle cramps, upset stomachs, and headaches. It’s loaded with antioxidants, as well, which help protect against oxidative stress, one of the leading causes of heart disease and cancer. Studies have also found that lemongrass contains antimicrobial properties that fight E. coli.
Oregano:
If you use only one herb in your cooking, make it oregano. This potent herb (which some chefs think actually tastes better dried) contains up to 20 times more cancer-fighting antioxidants than other herbs, on average, and holds its own against fruit, as well. According to USDA researchers, 1 tablespoon of fresh oregano has the same antioxidant power as an entire apple. And gram for gram, the herb has twice the antioxidant activity of blueberries.
Rosemary:
Who doesn’t love a good grilled steak? But exposing meat (red or white) to the hot flames of a grill leads to the formation of heterocyclic amines (HCAs), carcinogenic compounds created when meats are barbecued or grilled. Add rosemary, though, and that doesn’t happen, according to researchers from the University of Arkansas, Iowa State University, and Kansas State University, who found that cooking meats with rosemary could lower the levels of HCAs by 60 to 80 percent.
Cilantro:
Love it or hate it, you may want to make sure you always throw a few sprigs of cilantro into your next chicken dish. Researchers from the University of California have found that a compound in cilantro called dodecenal is nearly twice as effective at killing salmonella bacteria (commonly found in raw meats) as commercial antibiotics, and they isolated a dozen other antibiotic compounds that were also effective at killing other foodborne bacteria. Those same compounds were also found in coriander, the spice made from seeds of the cilantro plant.
Sage:
This strong-flavored herb is an antioxidant powerhouse, ranking just behind oregano in terms of antioxidant content, and this herb, widely used in herbal and traditional cures, boosts your brain power. In a study published in the journal Pharmacological Biochemical Behavior, 45 adults were given either a placebo or varying levels of the essential oils found in sage. Those receiving even the lowest levels of sage oils had better memory and subject recall, based on cognitive tests, than people taking a placebo. If you’re a local-food addict, try pineapple sage, a variety you can grow in your back yard that tastes and smells just like the tropical fruit but without the food miles.
Peppermint:
Peppermint does more than just dress up a cocktail or freshen your breath. It ranks third, behind sage and oregano, in terms of antioxidant content, and it might actually keep you skinny. Simply smelling mint can reduce cravings, so much so that a study from Wheeling Jesuit University in West Virginia found that people who sniffed peppermint every 2 hours for a week consumed 2,800 fewer calories that week than non-peppermint-sniffers.
JANUARY’S PLANT OF THE MONTH:
POTHOS (Devil’s Ivy)
The pothos plant, Epipremnun aureum or Scindapsus aureus, is considered to be the most common indoor houseplant. Pothos plants are easy to grow and maintain, and flourish in a variety of indoor conditions. In other words, the plant can survive varying levels of light, temperature, air humidity, and watering. In addition, the pothos plant is one of few species of indoor plants that can grow without any natural light source. Generally, the pothos plant is an easy-going botanical addition to an indoor space.
The leaves of the pothos plant, also called Devil’s Ivy, are waxy and smooth. Different varieties of the pothos plant have leaves of different colors. The most common variety of pothos plant is called Jade Pothos, and has evenly colored green leaves. The Golden Pothos has leaves that are colored with patchy shades of yellow and green. The Marble Queen Pothos has leaves that are patched white and green. A newer variety of pothos, called the Neon Pothos, has green and chartreuse leaves.
The pothos plant is thought to be native to the Solomon Islands in the South Pacific. It is a low-growing vine that can grow around 10 feet long. The pothos plant may also be used as a hanging plant, in which case it may be pruned back to encourage more thickness at the base rather than extending vines.
At the base of every leaf, where the stem of the leave meets the vine, there is a small, dry nub. If the pothos plant is growing near soil, this nub will extend and become a root. However, if the pothos is grown as a hanging plant, the vines may grow downward without coming into contact with any surface. In this case, the nubs at the base of each leaf will remain dry and short, as the vine continues to grow consecutive leaves.
The pothos is also a very easy plant to propagate through cuttings. Making a cutting of a pothos plant simply requires finding the nub on the underside of the vine, and cutting below the nub. In other words, the nub, or a few nubs, should be included in the cutting being taken from the main plant. An easy way to start a new pothos plant is to place the cutting in a glass of water, making sure that the nub is submerged. In a matter of days this nub will begin to extend forming a root. After a week or so, when the root has grown and looks strong, the cutting should be placed in soil, and watered well until it is established.
Pothos plants are also popular as an indoor plant because they have been shown to clean the air. In a study done by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), pothos plants, along with other indoor varieties such as spider plant, chrysanthemums and philodendron, were shown to remove significant amounts of toxic chemicals from the air. The study, first publicized in the late 1980’s, was a collaboration between NASA and the Associated Landscape Contractors of America (ALCA). It showed that toxins such as formaldehyde and benzene, found in dangerously high levels inside many office buildings, could be naturally and safely removed by indoor plants. The study showed that pothos plant was one of the most effective species in ridding the air of indoor pollutants.
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.
Family Walk: Phenology
Sunday, January 7, 1:00 p.m.-2:30 p.m.
Aldo Leopold and his graduate students kept journals to record the timing of natural events (phenology). Start the new year learning to track life cycle events. Free, no registration required. Meet at the Visitor Center.
University of Wisconsin Arboretum
1207 Seminole Highway
Madison, WI 53711
608/263-7888 or arboretum.wisc.edu/ for details.
Multifunctional Rain Gardens
Tuesday, January 9, 6:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m.
Class
Rain gardens help absorb stormwater, recharge ground water, improve pollinator and bird habitat, and provide year-round interest. Learn about rain garden design and plantings. Bring yard plan for discussion. Indoor class. Instructor: Gail Epping Overholt, Arboretum outreach and education coordinator. Fee: $25. Register by December 15.
University of Wisconsin Arboretum
1207 Seminole Highway
Madison, WI 53711
608/263-7888 or arboretum.wisc.edu/ for details.
Winter Enrichment Lecture: Preserving the Magic of Monarch Migration—Moving Beyond the Documentation of Declines
Thursday, January 11, 9:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m.
Karen Oberhauser, Director, UW–Madison Arboretum. Fee: $10, series $70. Register by January 8.
The cost is $10. Registration is required for this event. Register @ https://arboretum.wisc.edu/cla
University of Wisconsin Arboretum
1207 Seminole Highway
Madison, WI 53711
608/263-7888 or arboretum.wisc.edu/ for details.
Plants in Pop Culture and Titan Arum: The Tale of Big Bucky
Saturday, January 13, 9:00-11:00 a.m.
University of Wisconsin Horticulture Department,
1575 Linden Dr, Madison, WI
This talk commemorates the 2001 blooming of the Titan Arum at the University of Wisconsin Botany Department Greenhouses. Amorphophallus titanum is big, stinky and rarely blooms in cultivation, but nonetheless is truly magnificent.
Plants enrich the stories we love: the apple that poisoned Snow White, the rose plucked by Beauty’s father in the Beast’s castle, the life’s work of John Chapman (aka Johnny Appleseed). But it’s not just in folklore and fairytales that plants play key roles. If we look we will find them in modern day stories too. Blending Botany and Literature we’ll take a look at some of our culture’s most popular tales and explore the ways plants are used to augment the story as plot devices, set pieces, characters, and even villains.
Johanna Oosterwyk is Manager of the DC Smith Instructional Greenhouse at UW-Madison and teaches Ornamental Plants and Greenhouse Cultivation for the Department of Horticulture. Johanna is a dedicated plant geek who will find a way to talk about plants to anyone, anywhere and at any time.
$10 general admission. Free for members Register here: https://plantscultureandbucky.
Allen Centennial Gardens
620 Babcock Dr. on the University of WI campus, Madison
608/576-2501 or allencentennialgarden.org for details.
Virtual Wild Food/Wild Medicine Plant Presentation
Saturday, January 20, 10:00-12:00
Lakeview Library
2845 N. Sherman Ave., Madison WI
Instructor: Lily Kilfoy
Fee: Free; registration required
Ages: 8 and older; adult supervision required
Join veteran herbalist and wild forager Linda Conroy for this inspiring presentation. Participants will be treated to a virtual plant walk highlighting wild food and medicine found at each season throughout the year. Photographs of plants and preparations will be presented. The presentation will conclude with an assortment of some of the delicious wild food described in the presentation.
Please register by stopping at the Willy North Customer Service desk or by calling 608-709-5445.
Willy Street Co-op North
2817 N. Sherman Ave.
Madison, WI 53704
Madison, WI 53704
Tropical Treasures: Lessons in Horticulture, Biodiversity, Endemism and More from Around the World
Saturday, January 20, 9:00-11:00 a.m.
University of Wisconsin Horticulture Department,
1575 Linden Dr, Madison, WI
1st hour: “Tropical Treasures: Lessons in horticulture, biodiversity, endemism, and more from Costa Rica”. Susan Mahr will examine an ecosystem different from our own and compare ways plants (and animals) adapt to various environmental constraints. This study helps us understand the ecology of rainforests and other tropical habitats, giving us a different perspective on growing plants in our own temperate conditions.
2nd hour: “Unique features of horticultural tours around the world” Susan will share observations that she has made in leading horticultural tours in many different environments around the world and invite audience members to share their experiences and lessons learned from their own travels.
Dr. Susan Mahr is a Senior Outreach Specialist in UW Madison’s Horticulture Department and Coordinator of the Wisconsin Master Gardener Program. As part of her responsibilities, she has led numerous garden related educational tours to locations around the world, including Costa Rica, New Zealand and South Africa,
$10 general admission. Free for members Register here: https://tropicaltreasure.event
Allen Centennial Gardens
620 Babcock Dr. on the University of WI campus, Madison
608/576-2501 or allencentennialgarden.org for details.
Family Walk: Winter Wonderland
Sunday, January 21, 1:00 p.m.-2:30 p.m.
Even when the ground is frozen and the air is cold, beauty and activity abound in the natural world. Springs remain ice-free and support year-round wildlife. Discover winter’s liveliness on this naturalist-led walk. Free, no registration required. Meet at the Visitor Center.
University of Wisconsin Arboretum
1207 Seminole Highway
Madison, WI 53711
608/263-7888 or arboretum.wisc.edu/ for details.
Edible Native Gardening
Thursday, January 25, 6:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m.
Class
Learn which native plants offer both beauty and flavor. Explore ideas for creating wild edible landscapes small and large, sunny and shady, with samples to taste. Indoor class. Instructor: Judy Kingsbury, Arboretum volunteer coordinator. Fee: $20. Register by January 15.
The cost is $20. Registration is required for this event. Register @ arboretum.wisc.edu/classes/edi
University of Wisconsin Arboretum
1207 Seminole Highway
Madison, WI 53711
608/263-7888 or arboretum.wisc.edu/ for details.
31st Annual Orchid Quest 2018
Saturday, February 3, 10:00-4:00
Sunday, February 4, 10:00-3:00
Olbrich Botanical Gardens
In the middle of winter it is so delightful to be surrounded by the colorful and exotic fragrance of the world at a handy and comfortable location—new this year at Olbrich Botanical Gardens. It will be the 30th year for the Madison Orchid Growers Guild to host Orchid Quest.
You will be able to find everything you need to take care of your new orchid plants including literature, growing media, fertilizer, orchid pots, and more. Come see this multidimensional show. Visit www.orchidguild.org for more details. Admission and parking free.
Olbrich Botanical Gardens
3330 Atwood Ave., Madison
608/246-4550 or www.olbrich.org for details.
25th Annual Wisconsin Public Television Garden Expo
Friday, February 9, 12:00-8:00
Saturday, February 10, 9:00-6:00
Sunday, February 11, 10:00-4:00
Garden Expo is a midwinter oasis for people ready to venture out and dig their hands in the dirt. Now in it’s 25th year, this three-day event celebrates the latest trends in gardening and landscaping. Join other gardening enthusiasts to share ideas, gain inspiration and create something new. All proceeds support Wisconsin Public Television.
Things to do at the Garden Expo;
-Learn something new at one of the more than 150 free educational seminars and stage demonstrations.
-Visit with hundreds of businesses, independent contractors, nonprofits and artists to share ideas and learn about the newest in gardening, landscaping and local foods.
-Discuss innovative gardening techniques with UW-Extension horticulture experts.
-Relax with a casual walk through the central garden—courtesy of Wisconsin Nursery & Landscape Association
-Purchase seeds, tools and everything else you need to be ready when the trees bud and the ground thaws.
-Attend the Sunday farmers’ market, featuring farmers, food artisans and local food retailers.
Tickets cost $8 in advance, $10 at the door. Children 12 and under are admitted free. Two and three-day passes are available for added savings. Advance tickets are available at Klein’s. Visit www.wigardenexpo.com for more information.
Alliant Energy Center Exhibition Hall
1919 Alliant Energy Center Way
Madison, WI 53713
2018 Green Thumb Gardening Series
Thrusdays, February 22 thru April 19, 6:30-9:00
Dane County UW-Extension Office, 5201 Fen Oak Dr, Suite 138
The 2018 Green Thumb Gardening Series will give you the practical knowledge to keep your home garden thriving! University of Wisconsin Extension educators, specialists, and local horticulture experts will provide in depth and accessible information for everyone from the novice to the experienced gardener.
2018 CLASS TOPICS
•Composting & Soil Composition
•Garden Landscape Design
•Growing Berries
•Annual & Perennial Flowers
•Wisconsin Wildlife in the Home Garden
•Weeds & Invasive Plant Management
•Native Plants for Gardens & Pollinators
•Vegetables Families, Pests & Diseases
•Vegetable Garden Planning & Techniques
DATES AND REGISTRATION INFORMATION COMING SOON!
Dane County University of Wisconsin-Extension
5201 Fen Oak Dr, Suite 138
Dane County Late Winter Farmer’s Market
Saturdays, January 6 thru April 7, 8:00-noon
Madison Senior Center
330 W. Mifflin
For details visit www.dcfm.org
JANUARY IN THE GARDEN—A checklist of things to do this month.
___Place your used Christmas tree in the garden for added wildlife protection.
___Inspect stored summer bulbs like dahlias, cannas and glads for rotting.
___Check for and treat for pests on plants brought in from the garden.
___Begin forcing stored elephant’s ears at the end of January.
___Keep birdfeeders full. Clean periodically with soap and water.
___Inventory last year’s leftover seeds before ordering new ones.
___Order your seeds. By ordering early, there are usually freebies & discounts.
___Start certain slow-growers like lisianthus, geraniums, pentas and bananas.
___Shop for summer bulbs like begonias, caladium, calla and elephant’s ears.
___Use the winter days to plan next summer’s garden.
___Check your garden for any plant damage from weather or rodents.
___Have trees trimmed–it’s often times cheaper and easier to schedule.
___Visit Klein’s—it’s green, it’s warm, it’s colorful—it’s always spring.
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 JANUARY:
—This is the quietest month at the greenhouse. All 10 greenhouses in our back range are usually shut down to save on energy and prep them for all the spring plants that start arriving in February.
—Thousands of geranium cuttings arrive for our 5” pots and we begin planting up our geranium hanging baskets and flower pouches.
—We begin stepping our tropicals into larger pots for spring sale. This early jump gives you larger and more vigorous plants than many of our competitors.
—We spend much of our time ordering product for next summer, from plants to pottery to garden ornaments and sundries.
—We begin to access our needs for spring staffing and try to have the new people in place and trained by March 1. March and April are the busiest months behind the scenes in the greenhouse and we rely on a dedicated, hardworking team to have everything ready for the customer come May 1 and the spring onslaught.
—Hundreds of herbs for windowsill culture are thriving in the sunny, warm greenhouses . We have chosen only the best assortment for indoor growing and winter harvest. Choose from rosemary, lavender, parsley, thyme and more.
—We continue to plan and prepare for Wisconsin Public Television’s Garden Expo at the Alliant Energy Center in February by sprucing up display pieces and potting up thousands of violas, primrose, cineraria, etc. for sale at the show. This is Klein’s biggest annual event and our most important advertising.
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
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/
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
Plant Disease Diagnostics Clinic
Dept. of Plant Pathology
1630 Linden Dr.
Madison, WI 53706
Insect Diagnostic Lab
240 Russell Labs
1630 Linden Dr.
Madison, WI 53706
U.W. Soil and Plant Analysis Lab
8452 Mineral Point Rd.
Verona, WI 53593
American Horticultural Society
Garden Catalogs (an extensive list with links)
Invasive Species
Community Groundworks
3601 Memorial Dr., Ste. 4
Madison, WI 53704
Madison Area Master Gardeners (MAMGA)
Wisconsin Master Gardeners Program
Department of Horticulture
1575 Linden Drive
University of Wisconsin – Madison
Madison, WI 53706
The Wisconsin Gardener
Allen Centennial Gardens
620 Babcock Dr.
Madison, WI 53706
Olbrich Botanical Gardens
3330 Atwood Ave.
Madison, WI 53704
Rotary Gardens
1455 Palmer Dr.
Janesville, WI 53545
University of WI Arboretum
1207 Seminole Hwy.
Madison, WI 53711
University of Wisconsin-West Madison
Agricultural Research Center
8502 Mineral Point Rd.
Verona, WI 53593
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