‘THE SAGE’-Klein’s Online Newsletter—DECEMBER 2019
Klein’s Floral & Greenhouses
608/244-5661 or info@kleinsfloral.com
THIS MONTH’S HIGHLIGHTS:
Coming Soon: Our Popular 12 Days of Christmas Specials
Our ‘Mad Gardener’ Is Ready for Your Questions
Hanukkah & Kwanzaa Decorating Ideas
Wisconsin Is Among the Nation’s Top Christmas Tree Suppliers
How To Have an Eco-Friendly Green Christmas Holiday
Klein’s Favorite Seed, Bulb & Plant Sources
You Asked the Mad Gardener a ‘Dripping’ Dieffenbachia
Plant of the Month: Redtwig Dogwood
Klein’s Favorite Vegetarian/Vegan Chili Recipes
Product Spotlight: Fountains From Henri Studios
Notes from Rick’s Garden Journal—From November 2019
—Oh, the Weather Outside is Frightful
—‘Sun King’ Aralia Named 2020 Perennial Plant of the Year
—My Favorite Holiday Bloomer
December in the Garden: A Planner
Gardening Events Around Town
Join Us on Twitter
Follow Us on Facebook
WATCH FOR OUR POPULAR “12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS” SPECIALS. Each day from Thursday, December 12 though Christmas Eve, Klein’s will feature a new item for holiday gift-giving, culminating on Tuesday, December 24 with all featured products on sale for last minute shoppers and bargain seekers. Visit our website or watch for emailed updates.
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.
DECEMBER STORE HOURS:
Holiday Hours
Monday thru Friday 8:00-6:00
Saturday: 8:00-6:00
Sunday: 9:00-5:00
Holiday hours run through Monday, December 23
Christmas Eve, Tuesday, December 24—Open 8:00-4:00
Starting December 26:
Monday thru Friday : 8:00-6:00
Saturday: 9:00-5:00
Sunday: 10:00-4:00
New Year’s Eve, Tuesday, December 31–Open 8:00-4:00
Closed Christmas Day, December 25 & New Year’s Day, January 1, 2020
CALENDAR OF EVENTS:
Early December–Order your beautiful poinsettias, blooming plants, designer gift baskets or custom-made centerpieces now for holiday gift-giving and guaranteed delivery. Early ordering ensures you top quality product for your home decorating and holiday party needs.
December 11–Full Moon
December 12 thru December 24–Stop in and check-out our in-store specials during Klein’s “12 Days of Christmas” for any last minute gift-giving ideas. We still have a fantastic selection of homegrown poinsettias, blooming plants, houseplants, decorations and more. Shop early for the best section and we’ll deliver anywhere in Madison or most of the surrounding communities.
December 21–Winter Solstice
December 22—Hanukkah Begins
December 22—Holiday Centerpiece Class @ Klein’s: Join us on Sunday, December 22 from 11:00-1:00 to design a table centerpiece for your holiday gathering. Enjoy a cup of coffee or tea and/or cookies as you design a table centerpiece of evergreens, candles, ribbons and fresh flowers. Cost is $35 plus tax and pre-registration is required (call in or stop in the store, whichever is more convenient for you!). Email sue@kleinsfloral.com for more information.
December 25–Christmas Day (Closed)
December 26–Kwanzaa Begins (runs through January 1)
December 26—The After Christmas Clearance Sale begins at 8:00! Everything ‘holiday’ must go! This is a great time to plan for this week’s New Years Eve party or to pick up some excellent bargains for next year’s decorating. Poinsettias are perfect for adding instant color to your late season holiday party and are gorgeous in fresh arrangements.
December 26 thru December 31–Order your New Years Eve centerpieces and custom designed arrangements early!
January 1, 2020–New Year’s Day (Closed)
‘THE FLOWER SHOPPE’:
Hanukkah and Kwanzaa, in addition to Christmas, are just around the corner! Following are a bit of history and a few decorating and entertaining ideas from the Society of American Florists’ website at www.aboutflowers.com.
Chanukah (Hanukkah), the Festival of Lights, celebrates the victory of the Jews over Greek persecution. When the Maccabees, the leaders of the war against the Syrians, reclaimed the Temple, they only had one flask of oil to light the Menorah. Miraculously the Menorah stayed lit for eight days – thus the eight days of Chanukah, which begin on the 25th day of the Hebrew month of Kislev.
Chanukah Decorating and Entertaining Ideas
•Ask your florist to design a festive arrangement featuring flowers in the traditional Chanukah blue and white – perfect for a centerpiece or to greet guests on a table in the foyer.
•Use fresh evergreens to decorate around the menorah. Place colorful dreidels and chocolate coins around the table for kids to enjoy.
•For an elegant celebration take advantage of all places where candles could be displayed.
•Line a walkway with votive candles in luminaries leading up to a door.
•Place garland on the mantle with fresh flowers and candles to beautifully grace your room and make the most of light by enhancing the fire.
•Float candles and flowers in treasured crystal or silver bowls to create a fabulous effect.
•Place scented candles with fresh blossoms in each powder room.
•If an open house is on the agenda and many persons will be in a room, it is important to give special attention to the larger display areas such as the front door, foyer, mantle, buffet or serving areas, powder rooms, windows and staircase. This will help you get maximum impact because with many people in a room smaller arrangements placed around will not be seen at all times. Additionally, by focusing on a few focal areas in each room, more space is made for glasses, cups and food plates and there is less chance of an accident.
•As guests leave, have a vase of loose flowers by the door and invite them to take one home as a gift.
Kwanzaa, celebrated from December 26 – January 1, was founded in 1966 by Dr. Maulana Karenga. The cultural (not religious) holiday is an African American celebration of the values of family, community responsibility, commerce and self-improvement. As Dr. Karenga says, “Kwanzaa is celebrated through rituals, dialogue, narratives, poetry, dancing, singing, drumming and other music, and feasting.”
Kwanzaa is based on Nguzo Saba, seven social principles:
•Umoja (Unity)
•Kujichagulia (Self-Determination)
•Ujima (Collective Work & Responsibility)
•Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics)
•Nia (Purpose)
•Kuumba (Creativity)
•Imani (Faith)
Each of these seven principles is represented by a candle in the Kinara (candleholder). A black candle should be placed in the center of the Kinara, with three green candles on the left and three red candles on the right. Each day a candle in the Kinara is lit to celebrate one of the seven principles, beginning with the black candle in the center and lighting the rest of the candles from left to right.
Kwanzaa Decorating and Entertaining Ideas
•Ask your florist to create an arrangement of flowers in the traditional Kwanzaa colors, with fruits and vegetables to surround the Kinara.
•Position red flowers and greens throughout the room to accent the Kinara.
•For an elegant celebration take advantage of all places where candles could be displayed:
•Line a walkway with votive candles in luminaries leading up to a door.
•Place garland on the mantle with fresh flowers and candles to beautifully grace your room and make the most of light by enhancing the fire.
•Float candles and flowers in treasured crystal or silver bowls to create a fabulous effect.
•Place scented candles with fresh blossoms in each powder room.
•If an open house is on the agenda and many persons will be in a room, it is important to give special attention to the larger display areas such as the front door, foyer, mantle, buffet or serving areas, powder rooms, windows and staircase. This will help you get maximum impact because with many people in a room smaller arrangements placed around will not be seen at all times. Additionally, by focusing on a few focal areas in each room, more space is made for glasses, cups and food plates… and there is less chance of an accident.
•As guests leave, have a vase of loose flowers by the door and invite them to take one home as a gift.
For more entertaining and decorating ideas give Klein’s a call at 608/244-5661 and ask for one of our talented designers–Darcy, Sue, Andrea or Bonnie. Be sure to order early for prompt delivery. For details visit kleinsfloral.com/delivery-
YOU ASKED THE MAD GARDENER . . .
I a very large dieffenbachia (dumbcane). I’ve noticed that a few of the leaves are wet and a bit slimy on the very tips. The plant seems go be transpiring and dripping a bit of water off some of the leaves. I have it about a foot from a large north facing window. Should I treat the plant with something? This is my first dieffenbachia and I would very much like to keep it healthy. Kassey
Hi Kassey,
The answer is simple…. do absolutely nothing except maybe move the plant to a brighter window. In experiments, dieffenbachia transpire water more than any other houseplant. The dripping wet tips is normal. You’ll notice cycles in the transpiration rate based on your watering cycle and the humidity in your home.
That said, a north window is probably not bright enough for a dieffenbachia to survive long term without supplemental lighting; especially during these short days of winter. If left there, you’ll probably notice steady deterioration as the winter progresses and until the days become noticeably longer in February. A south window is best, followed by a west window.
Watch for spider mites as the winter progresses on the undersides of the leaves. Dieffenbachia are especially prone. Wipe the undersides of the leaves periodically with a moist cloth to prevent spider mites, focusing on the deep crevice along the center vein.
Dieffenbachia prefer to be on the drier side between waterings, rather than moist (They can be susceptible to rot.). Water only when the soil surface is rather dry to the touch when your finger is inserted about 1/2″ and then water deeply. Never allow your plant to sit in water in the saucer.
I hope this of help and good
Thanks for your question,
Klein’s Mad Gardener
DID YOU KNOW. . .
. . . that currently Wisconsin ranks 5th in Christmas tree production in the United States (and we have plenty of trees to go around)?
The following article Chelsey Lewis appeared in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel (11/21/19) @ www.jsonline.com/
A Christmas tree shortage in Wisconsin? Not quite…
Don’t listen to the hype: There is not a shortage of real Christmas trees in Wisconsin — or anywhere in the country — this year.
Some news outlets in the nation’s top tree-producing states, including Oregon and Michigan, have been reporting tree shortages and possible price increases due to farmers leaving the business after the recession in 2008.
But the “shortage is taken out of context,” said Tim O’Connor, who heads the National Christmas Tree Association. O’Connor said it’s more about the supply, which will be tight again this year, as it has been for the past three. But “the reality is we’ve never run out of Christmas trees.” While some lots might run out of trees before Christmas, to O’Connor’s knowledge, there hasn’t been a single community with no trees available up until the holiday.
Tight Christmas tree supply
O’Connor said the industry went through “a painful rightsizing” about 10 years ago, when there was an oversupply of trees that drove down prices and, coupled with the 2008 recession, drove farmers to leave the business.
“It’s a challenging business,” O’Connor said, noting that it can take a decade to see the return on planting trees. (It takes that long for a tree to reach the 6- to 8-foot height that consumers prefer.)
Oregon, the country’s leading producer of Christmas trees, saw a drop in the number of trees cut from almost 6.5 million in 2012 to about 4.7 million in 2017, according to the USDA’s Census of Agriculture.
“There was such a glut on the West Coast 10 years ago that many growers went out of business or were forced out of business,” Schroeder said.
He noted that “the Midwest has been fortunate,” and is now “picking up some of that supply.” Wisconsin ranks fifth in Christmas tree production in the U.S., with more than 700,000 trees harvested in 2017. That’s up from 611,000 in 2012.
Increased demand for real trees
The “rightsizing” squeezed out middle-size farmers, O’Connor said, with the industry now split between large-scale farms that are good at shipping trees to big costumers, and small outfits that cater to consumers — namely, farms where you can cut your own tree.
“There is a nice business for those who are near enough to a consumer location,” O’Connor said. “That business has really grown a lot.”
Increased demand is also playing a role in the perceived shortage, O’Connor said. Younger families who have eco-friendly world views are more interested in purchasing a real tree than an artificial one.
“They want authenticity, they want to have experiences. You get none of that with a plastic tree,” O’Connor said.
Five million more real Christmas trees — a total of 32.8 million — were purchased in 2018 compared to 2017, according to the NCTA, based on a poll conducted by Nielsen/Harris after the 2019 Christmas season. Farms were one of the post popular places for consumers to buy real trees in 2018, tied with chain stores, according to the NCTA.
“Seeing the young families come to the farm and cut their own, and they’re out there taking pics and taking selfies, it’s a change. You can see where it’s changed over the last 10 or 20 years,” Schroeder said. “They want a new tradition that they can carry on with their family for the next 10 or 20 years. That’s such a rewarding experience.” said Paul Schroeder, president of the NCTA.
PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT—Each month we spotlight some product that we already carry or one that we’ve taken note of and plan to carry in the near future. Likewise, if you would like to see Klein’s to carry a product that we don’t currently, please let us know. Our goal is to be responsive to the marketplace and to our loyal clientele. If a product fits into our profile, we will make every effort to get it into our store. In addition, we may be able to special order an item for you, whether plant or hard good, given enough time.
WATER FOUNTAINS FROM HENRI STUDIO
‘The Creativity Continues’
The soothing sounds of running water has become increasingly popular in Madison area gardens in the past few years and nothing could be easer to maintain or look more stunning than a self contained fountain from Henri Studio. Their elegant designs are craft in cement; making them virtually indestructible and resistant to anything Mother Nature can throw at them. All styles come with a pump and all accessories needed for immediate set up.
At Klein’s we currently carry many popular designs in stock. Many are lit with long-lasting LED lights for added nighttime effect. That said, Klein’s is able to order any fountain in the current Henri Studio catalog for pick up at the store or drop shipped to your home for an added fee.
And new in 2020: All Henri Studio fountains will be 20% off our retail price if ordered and purchased by January 6, 2020! Visit the Henri Studios website at www.henristudio.com for a look at their amazing catalog. Then call or email Kathryn @ 608-244-5661 or kathryn@kleinsfloral.com for information and pricing. All orders must be picked up (or arrangements made) immediately upon arrival @ Klein’s. Please note that orders placed after January 6 will be at regular price.
About Henri Studio:
Over the past 50 years, Henri Studio has become synonymous with excellence in cast stone fountains, statuary and garden décor. Acclaimed worldwide, Henri sets the benchmark for innovative concepts and premium products in a category which it virtually created.
Season after season, our flow of original designs in fountains and garden décor has energized the Henri brand. From classic to contemporary, Henri creations are sculpted with an eye for detail and a time-tested sensibility.
The artisan’s touch shapes every Henri creation. Each piece is poured by hand in the tradition of meticulous Old World craftsmanship, complemented by our rich, trend-setting finishes. Our fountains are expertly engineered and all Henri products are skillfully made in America.
The result is an evolving legacy of beauty. Henri fountains and garden décor continue to enhance distinctive homes and landscapes around the world, adding elegance and enjoyment to your outdoor living experience.
Creativity and quality are our passion. And with Henri fountains and garden décor, beauty and elegance are yours to enjoy now, and for years to come.
NOTES FROM MY GARDEN JOURNAL–Tips and Observations from My Own Garden by Rick Halbach
ENTRY: OCTOBER 31, 2019 (Oh, the Weather Outside is Frightful)
Until today, in all of my 35 years of gardening, I had never gardened in the snow! This year’s so far 8” of snow has shattered the record for October snowfall in Madison by at least twofold. After work today, I raced home to dig out my tropical bulbs for storage and to plant at least some of my spring bulbs. With record low temperatures forecast for next week, I may not get a chance if the ground were to freeze for the season (which would be about a month ahead of schedule).
Snowfall records broken this week in Madison included:
-Most snow ever in October, breaking the old record of 5” in 1917.
-Earliest 4 day stretch of 1” or more snowfalls.
-First time ever with 3 of 4 days with daily snowfall records.
(…And Note: Another 7” of snow fell during the next week after this entry!)
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ENTRY: NOVEMBER 10, 2019 (‘Sun King’ Aralia Named 2020 Perennial Plant of the Year)
I just read today that one of my very favorite garden plants, ‘Sun King’ aralia, has been named 2020’s Perennial Plant of the Year by the Perennial Plant Association. This showy standout has been in my garden for at least five years and performs better and better each year as it becomes established. Never prone, to pest attacks that I’ve seen, this was a good, interesting and not well known Perennial Plant of the Year choice.
From Walters Gardens:
Aralia cordata ‘Sun King’ (Golden Japanese Spikenard)
Looking for something uniquely different for shade? Try this tropical-looking golden beauty with large compound leaves that measure up to 3 feet long!
An excellent complement to hostas and woodland perennials, ‘Sun King’ emerges mid-spring with bright gold leaves held on nicely contrasting reddish brown stems. If given at least a few hours of sun a day, the foliage will remain yellow all summer. In heavier shade, the foliage ranges from chartreuse to lime green.
This plant quickly forms a large clump of foliage which amazingly resists deer browsing. It reportedly grows just three feet tall and wide, though many plantsmen believe it will grow larger over time.
In mid to late summer, interesting racemes of tiny white flowers are produced followed by deep purplish black, inedible berries. Like most Aralias, the flowers attract honeybees.
(Please note that ‘Sun King’ Aralia is available at Klein’s in the spring in two gallon containers)
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ENTRY: NOVEMBER 21, 2019 (My Favorite Holiday Bloomer)
Amaryllis are far and away my favorite of the holiday/winter blooming plants with about 15 pots either starting to bloom throughout the house or at various stages of development in the basement and in the root cellar. Because I can easily control their growth and development, I have amaryllis in bloom from now (mid-November) through March when my pots of forced tulips and hyacinths take their place.
I choose to plant mostly Christmas amaryllis, rather than the larger Royal Dutch hybrids, because I can always have some in bloom by Thanksgiving and ready to bloom for holiday gift giving. The Dutch hybrids can take up to three or more months to bloom, whereas Christmas types can bloom in as little as 6-8 weeks. My choices this year include; ‘Cocktail’ (always the first to bloom with striking signal-red flowers accented with bold white starbursts), ‘Merry Christmas’ (solid red, with huge blooms right at Christmas), ‘Santiago’ (a Trumpet-type that is vivid raspberry-red with a brilliant white starburst) and ‘Double Dream’ (layers of ruffled, rose-pink petals on giant, seven-inch double blooms).
Plant amaryllis bulbs in any well-drained, bagged potting soil. Use a terra cotta or ceramic pot for added weight. Amaryllis are notoriously top heavy. Choose a pot that extends no more than one inch from the edges of the bulb. For proper blooming, amaryllis bulbs require the snug fit. Plant the bulb firmly with 1/4-1/3 of the bulb above the soil line. Water in well and place in a warm location. From this point on, water on the lighter side until the flower stalk is 3-6” tall, after which watering can be increased to the point where the soil never dries out. Move your 3-4” tall amaryllis to a bright location, rotating the pot as needed so the plant doesn’t lean too much.
After flowering, cut off the flower stalk, leaving the foliage. Continue watering as any houseplant, leaving the pot in a bright location.
Come spring, plant your amaryllis into the garden in a fairly sunny location. Your plant should get rather large with firm, deep green foliage. Dig the bulb in early September and allow it to rest in a warm, dry location for 8-10 weeks. The bulb should be large and firm and completely rejuvenated The foliage can be removed once it has yellowed entirely. After the 8 weeks repot your bulb as you did the previous season. The cycle begins anew. Amaryllis bulbs can last for many, many years with proper care.
Klein’s offers about two dozen amaryllis choices in many types and colors. A number of gift box choices are available for easy gift giving for the gardener in your life. Klein’s also carries an assortment of waxed amaryllis….no planting and no watering! Simply watch it grow and bloom!
KLEIN’S RECIPES OF THE MONTH—These are a selection of relatively simple recipes chosen by our staff. New recipes appear monthly. Enjoy!!
Yes, soup season is here and nothing warms the body better on a cold and blustery day than a hearty bowl of chili and freshly baked cornbread. And who says chili has to be loaded with meat? Here are five of our very favorite vegetarian/vegan offerings that please even hardcore meat eaters….our own families are case in point!
VEGAN BLOODY MARY CROCK POT CHILI—a new classic that a staff member made for his parents, brother and then sister’s family while they were at recent Badger football games. “After hours being outside, there’s nothing better than coming home to the aroma of simmering chili!” From the January 20, 2019 issue of Parade from the Sunday paper. If desired, increase the recipe by half for a large sized crock pot.
1 TBS olive oil
1 red onion, finely chopped
1 chopped red sweet pepper
2 stalks chopped celery
2x 12 oz. bags vegetarian meat crumbles such as Morningstar Grillers
salt and pepper to taste
2 TBS grated fresh or jarred ginger
2 TBS tomato paste
2 clove minced garlic
1x 32 oz. spicy Bloody Mary mix of choice. (Use regular mix for those who prefer less spice and then serve hot sauces on the side for those who prefer their chili spicy)
1x 15 oz. can cannellini or regular kidney beans
1x 15 oz. can pinto beans
1x 15 oz. can black beans
1 cup chopped green onions
2 TBS or more chopped cilantro
2 tsp. smoked paprika
1 tsp. or to taste ground cumin
Heat oil in a large skillet on medium high heat. Sauté the red onion, pepper and celery until tender. Add the crumbles and cook until hot and broken up. Season with salt and pepper. Stir in the ginger, tomato paste and garlic and cook 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Transfer to the crock pot. Stir in the Bloody Mary mix, all of the beans, green onions, cilantro, smoked paprika and cumin. Cover and cook on hi for 4 hours (or low for 6-7 hours) until bubbly and thickened. Reseason with salt and pepper. Serve with lime wedges, extra cilantro and topped vegan pepperjack or cheddar cheese. Serves 6.
‘CLASSIC’ VEGETARIAN CHILI–This favorite comes from the September 24, 2000 issue of Parade magazine from the Sunday paper. An easy-to-make winner!
2 TBS. olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, sliced
1 green pepper, coarsely chopped
2 small zucchinis, cut into 1/2” dice
2 small yellow squash, cut into 1/2” dice
1 x 28 oz. can crushed tomatoes
2 x 15 oz. cans dark red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 x 15 oz. can corn with the liquid
1 x 6 oz. can tomato paste
1 x 4 oz. can green chilies with the liquid
1/4 cup chili powder
1 TBS. ground cumin
2 TBS. sugar
1-2 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. pepper
Sour cream
Shredded cheese
Heat the oil in a large heavy pot on medium. Sauté the onions, carrots and peppers
until tender, about 8 minutes. Add the zucchini and squash and cook until all is tender,
about 8 minutes. Add all of the ingredients except the sour cream and the cheese and
mix well. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat and simmer gently for one hour, stirring
occasionally. Serve with sour cream and cheese. Serves 6.
SPICY TWO BEAN VEGETARIAN CHILI— This thick and super flavorful chili comes from the November 2002 issue of Bon Appetit magazine.
2 TBS. olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, thinly sliced
1 sweet red pepper, chopped
4 TBS. chopped jalapeño
1 x 28 oz. can crushed tomatoes
3 cups water
2 x 15 oz. cans black beans, drained and rinsed
2 x 15 oz. cans kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1/2 cup bulgur
2 TBS. white wine vinegar
5 cloves minced garlic
2 TBS. chili powder
1 1/2 tsp. ground cumin
1 1/2 tsp. ground coriander
1/2 tsp. cinnamon
Heat the oil in a large pot on medium high. Sauté the onions, carrots, sweet pepper and jalapeño until almost tender, about 8 minutes. Add the tomatoes, water, beans, bulgur, vinegar, garlic and spices. Bring to a boil, reduce to medium high and cook, uncovered, until the bulgur is tender and the mixture thickens, stirring often, about 20 minutes. Serve with sour cream, shredded cheese, black olives, tortilla chips, etc. Serves 6.
VEGETARIAN CHILI–This classic comes comes to us from Better Homes & Gardens.
2 TBS. olive oil
1 1/2 cups chopped celery
1 1/2 cups chopped green pepper
1 cup chopped onion
3 cloves minced garlic
2 x 28 oz. cans whole tomatoes, undrained and cut up
3 x 15-16 oz. cans of beans of choice (kidney, black, garbanzo, great northern, pinto,
etc.) drained and rinsed
1/2 cup raisins
1/3 cup red wine vinegar
1 1/2 TBS. chili powder
1 1/2 TBS. dried basil
1 1/2 tsp. dried oregano
1 1/2 tsp. ground cumin
1 tsp. sugar
1 tsp. allspice
1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. pepper
1/4 tsp. or to taste Tobasco sauce
1 bay leaf
1 x 12 oz. beer of choice
3/4 cup whole unsalted cashews
Shredded cheese
Heat the oil in a large Dutch oven on medium high. Cook the celery, green pepper,
onion and garlic, covered, for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in the tomatoes,
beans, raisins, vinegar, chili powder, basil, oregano, cumin, sugar, allspice, salt, pepper,
Tobasco and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, reduce, and simmer, covered, 1 1/2 hours. Stir
in the beer and return to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer, uncovered, 30 minutes
more or until of desired consistency. Remove the bay leaf and stir in the cashews.
Serve with cheese. Serves 8.
VEGETARIAN CHILI–A short-’n-sweet recipe from the January 2005 issue of Cooking Light magazine.
1 TBS. olive oil
2 cups chopped onion
3 cloves minced garlic
4 cups water, divided
2 TBS. sugar
2 TBS. chili powder
2 TBS. Worcestershire sauce
2 x 14.5 oz. cans diced tomatoes with the juice
1 x 15.5 oz. can garbanzos
1 x 15 oz. can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 x 15 oz. can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 x 15. oz. can cannellini (white kidney beans), drained and rinsed
1 x 6 oz. can tomato paste
Shredded cheese
Heat the oil in a large Dutch oven on medium high. Sauté the onion and the garlic until
tender. Add 3 cups water and all of the ingredients except the paste and cheese.
Combine 1 cup water with the paste in a bowl and whisk until blended. Add to the pot.
Bring to a boil, reduce and simmer until well heated, about 15 minutes. Serve topped
with cheese. Serves 8.
NATURAL NEWS–
How To Have an Eco-Friendly Green Christmas Holiday
by Danny Lipford from Today’s Homeowner @ todayshomeowner.com/
Green is one of the traditional colors of the Christmas season, but the green we have in mind is the environmentally friendly kind. Here’s a list of some eco-friendly, energy saving tips that will put you at the top of Santa’s nice list this holiday season.
1. Use LED Lights
These small Light Emitting Diodes use 80% less energy and last 10 times longer than incandescent bulbs, plus they’re cool to the touch. Look for the Energy Star seal for ones with the highest energy efficiency rating.
2. Limit Lighting
Turn Christmas trees on only when you’re in the room to enjoy them. Turn outside decorations off before you go to bed at night, or put them on a timer that will remember to do it for you.
3. Send E-Cards
Replace snail mail cards and letters with e-cards and e-mails to save paper and mailing expense. It also will reduce your carbon footprint since it eliminates the fuel used for transporting standard mail.
4. Shop Online
Rather than burning gas driving around searching for that perfect Christmas present, shop online instead. Having your gifts shipped directly to out of town recipients saves even more energy by minimizing transportation costs.
5. Give Green Gifts
Consider giving eco-friendly or homemade gifts to those on your shopping list. Purchased green presents include:
-Energy saving items
-Books on green living
-Bicycles
-Mass transit passes
-Gift certificates to health food stores or organic restaurants
-Membership in an organic farm or co-op
-Donations to organizations that support the environment
Homemade presents include:
-Baked goods and other food items
-Paintings and photographs
-Pottery and ceramics
-Sewing and knitting
-Handmade ornaments
-Woodworking projects
6. Eco-Friendly Gift Wrapping
Here are some ways to reduce the waste from gift wrapping:
-Buy gift wrap made from recycled materials.
-Make your own gift wrap from cloth and other materials.
-Save wrapping paper from gifts you receive to use next year.
-Reuse boxes for shipping and gifts, rather than buying new ones.
-Recycle wrapping paper (if allowed by your recycling service) and boxes rather than throwing them away.
7. Green Christmas Tree
Visit a local Christmas tree farm and cut down your own tree. Not only is it a fun family activity, but it eliminates the transportation required for shipped trees. Try to find an organic tree farm that is pesticide free to reduce the toxins in your home.
An even greener option is to buy a live Christmas tree then plant it in your yard after the holidays are over.
8. Make Natural Decorations
Rather than buying plastic ornaments, wreaths, and decorations shipped from overseas, make your own from pine cones, holly, seashells, river stones, and evergreen branches. Christmas tree lots often will give away branches they’ve trimmed off the bottom of trees.
9. Recycle Decorations
After the holidays, but sure to recycle your Christmas tree and other natural decorations rather than sending them to the landfill.
10. Reduce Travel
Between shopping, trips to visit relatives, and the flurry of parties and other activities, the holiday season often involves a lot of travel, which in turn adds more pollutants to the atmosphere. Every gallon of gasoline used by your car releases 19.4 pounds of CO2, and air travel is equally bad. So if you really want to go green, consider limiting your travel plans this year.
11. Save Energy
While saving energy is a good idea anytime of year, it’s especially important to address during the holidays with a long winter ahead. Here are some ways to reduce your energy bills while helping the environment at the same time:
Fireplace: While Christmas is all about sipping eggnog while gathered around a fire, your fireplace may actually draw more heat out of your house than it produces, not to mention the pollution released by the smoke. So consider limiting your fireplace use this year, and be sure to close the damper once the fire is completely out. (Or replace your wood fireplace with an energy efficient insert.)
Thermostat: Turn down your thermostat when you’re asleep or not at home, or install a programmable thermostat to do it for you.
Lighting: Replace incandescent light bulbs with LEDs to reduce your lighting bill immensely.
Insulation: Adding insulation to your attic is the best way to reduce your heating and air conditioning bills. Depending on the R-value of your insulation and where you live, you should have 12”-15” or more of insulation in your attic.
DECEMBER’S PLANT OF THE MONTH:
REDTWIG, REDOSIER, SIBERIAN, BLOODTWIG and COMMON DOGWOODS (Cornus alba, C. sericea and C. sanguinea)
This group of shrubs is among the showiest for the garden where winter interest is desired. All are known for their colorful stems that seem to glow when set against a background of snow. The most common are the native redtwig/redosier dogwoods (C. sericea) found throughout Wisconsin and nearly all of North America. Vast populations are seen in low, wet areas throughout the state and are easy to pick out during the winter months when their blood-red stems seem to burst from the barren landscape. In addition, the twigs and branches are stunning additions to mixed holiday outdoor containers and also indoor floral arrangements.
There is a lot of confusion when talking about the colorful dogwoods found at nurseries and garden centers. Not all redtwig dogwoods are red and not all dogwoods with red twigs are redtwig. For most gardeners, however, the term ‘redtwig dogwood’ has come to mean all of the colorful twiggy dogwoods; whether red, orange or golden- stemmed. The term ‘redtwig’ now encompasses related but different species from around the world and the hybrids of these species. While cornus sericea hails from North America, the extremely hardy and popular C. alba is native to Siberia into China. Common dogwood (C. sanguinea) comes to us from Europe and western Asia.
All three species prefer moist spots in the garden that are protected from the hot afternoon sun. All have creamy white flowers in late spring and early summer and all produce berries late in the season. Stems are usually harvested in late fall for indoor use and can be used either fresh or dried. The stems are commonly used outdoors in large holiday containers. Plants generally grow fro 3 to 8 feet depending on variety.
Some of the most common varieties and cultivars of each species include:
Siberian Dogwood (C. alba)–Alleman’s Compact, Ivory Halo, Bloodgood, Bud’s Yellow (golden-stemmed), Kesselringii, Neon Burst, Prairie Fire and Siberica.
Redosier Dogwood (C. sericea-our native dogwood)–Arctic Fire, Baileyi, Cardinal, Fire Dance, Flaviramea, (golden-stemmed) Isanti, Kelseyi, Silver & Gold.
Common Dogwood (C. sanguinea)–Arctic Sun, Midwinter Fire, Winter Flame.
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. 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.
Holiday Concert Series at Olbrich Gardens
Warm up the winter day with festive holiday music during Olbrich’s Holiday Concert Series.
Concerts are at 2 p.m. each Sunday in December. Suggested donation is $2.
December 1
Central Midwest Ballet Academy-Ballet. Central Midwest Ballet Academy’s The Little Matchstick Girl is a family friendly performance based on Hans Christian Andersen’s classic story. With a narrator to help audiences follow along, the dancers are sure to entertain with their enthusiasm and energy. Recognized for their excellence, our dancers are excited to help you kick off your Holiday Season celebrations!
December 8
Yid Vicious-Yiddish Folk. Madison’s homegrown Klezmer band Yid Vicious has been engaging and delighting audiences throughout the Midwest and beyond since 1995. Klezmer is Yiddish folk music, music for dancing and celebrating, combining old world folk traditions with contemporary musical influences. Join Yid Vicious at the Olbrich Holiday Concert series for a unique blend of traditional and contemporary klezmer, including instrumental dance hits and Hanukkah favorites.
December 15
Suzuki Strings—Youth Violins. Since 1990, Suzuki Strings of Madison has provided children of all ages quality, comprehensive musical instruction through the violin. By helping to foster a positive environment and working relationship between the teacher, child, and parent, students learn the tools for success and well-being that last a life time. Suzuki Strings of Madison offers children of all ages musical instruction on the violin using the Suzuki method.
December 22
Gerri DiMaggio-Jazz & Latin Music. Gerri DiMaggio will be performing a delicious banquet of holiday songs spiced with selections from the great American songbook and sultry Brazilian sambas.
December 29
Madison Maennerchor-Choral Music. Founded in 1852, the Madison Maennerchor is the second oldest German singing organization in the United States, and the oldest in Wisconsin. Our goal is the perpetuation of choral music, both German and American, German culture, and Gemuetlichkeit.
Olbrich Botanical Gardens
3330 Atwood Ave., Madison
608/246-4550 or www.olbrich.org for details.
2019 Green Thumb Gardening Series
Wednesdays, October 9 thru December 4, 6:30-9:00
Dane County UW-Extension Office, 5201 Fen Oak Dr.
The 2019 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.
Register for the complete class series at a discounted price ($70.00) or individual classes ($12.00) according to your interests @ www.eventbrite.com/e/2019-
2019 CLASS TOPICS
December 4: Winter Pruning of Trees, Shrubs and Fruit Trees: This presentation reviews appropriate pruning for deciduous and evergreen landscape trees and shrubs as well as proper pruning strategies and techniques for apple and pear trees.
Dane County University of Wisconsin-Extension
5201 Fen Oak Dr, Suite 138
608/224-3700 or dane.uwex.edu
Rotary Botanical Gardens’ Holiday Light Show
November 29-30 & 12/1, December 5-8, 12-15, 19-23 and December 26-30
Experience the magic of over 750,000 twinkling lights at the 2019 Holiday Light Show. In addition to being a beloved community and regional event, the Holiday Light Show serves as a major fundraiser for Rotary Botanical Gardens and creates significant economic impact to the Janesville area. NEW ENTRANCE & EXIT to enhance the visitor experience!
FREE shuttle service to make getting to and from the show easier. Visitors can park at Dawson Field (920 Beloit Ave.) beginning at 4:15, catch the shuttle and be delivered right to the front door of the Gardens. After you’ve enjoyed the show the shuttle will return you to Dawson Field.
Doors open 4:30 pm. Last ticket sold 8:30 pm.
Admission is $10.00 (13+) and $5.00 for kids 3-12. Children 2 and under are free.
Tickets available at the door or online at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/
Rotary Botanical Gardens
1455 Palmer Dr., Janesville, WI
608/752-3885 or www.rotarybotanicalgardens.
Olbrich Garden’s Holiday Express:
Flower & Model Train Show
December 7 thru December 31
All aboard for Olbrich’s Holiday Express!
Large-scale model trains wind through a holiday scene overflowing with hundreds of poinsettias and fresh evergreens.
During the show, members of the Wisconsin Garden Railway Society come from all over the state to show off their large-scale model trains. You may see a bullet train, steam train, Santa train, circus train, or freight train, depending on the day.
Admission for Olbrich Botanical Society members is free. Admission to Olbrich’s Holiday Express for the general public is $6 for adults, and $3 for children ages 3 to 12. Children 2 and under are free. Admission to the tropical Bolz Conservatory is included.
Olbrich’s Holiday Express is open daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Olbrich will close at 2 p.m. on December 24, and will be closed all day on December 25 and January 1.
Olbrich Botanical Gardens
3330 Atwood Ave., Madison
608/246-4550 or www.olbrich.org for details.
Family Walk: Our Feathered Friends
Sunday, December 8, 1:30 p.m.-2:30 p.m.
Because birds are easier to spot when leaves are off trees and shrubs, this is a good time for youngsters to learn about them. 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.
Family Walk: Winter Birds
Sunday, December 22, 1:00 p.m.-2:30 p.m.
Chickadees, nuthatches, blue jays, and other birds spend the entire year here. Some species consider our area “south for the winter.” Prepare for the Christmas bird counts on this informative 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.
Family Walk: Conifers
Sunday, December 29, 1:00 p.m.-2:30 p.m.
Learn about some of the Arboretum’s cone-bearing trees—including pines, spruces, and firs—how to distinguish them from one another, and their ecological importance. 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.
Dane County Holiday Farmer’s Market
Saturdays, November 23 thru December 21 (excluding Nov. 30), 7:30-noon
Monona Terrace
The Holiday Dane County Farmer’s Market is located in the majestic Monona Terrace. This bustling market features more than 60 vendors and is your one-stop shop for all of your local food needs for the holidays!
For details visit www.dcfm.org
Dane County Late Winter Farmer’s Market
Saturdays, January 4 thru April 4, 8:00-noon
Now at the newly renovated Garver Feed Mill behind Olbrich Botanical Gardens!
3241 Garver Green (access off Fair Oaks Ave.)
The Late Winter Market runs each Saturday from the new year until the beginning of the outdoor season. Get your market fix all year long. You will still find many of your favorite Dane County Farmers’ Market members, as well as a full array of fruits and vegetables, cheeses, hyper-local meats, honey, bakery items, and many specialty items…and now in a BEAUTIFUL new location!!
For details visit www.dcfm.org
DECEMBER IN THE GARDEN-–A checklist of things to do this month.
___Mulch perennials to protect from the cold and prevent heaving.
___Purchase marsh hay and rose protection. Wait till the ground freezes.
___Mulch roses by mounding soil and wrapping, rather than using rose cones.
___Keep bird feeders full. Clean periodically with soap and water.
___Make water available to the birds. Begin using a deicer as needed.
___Plant bulbs for forcing and put in a cool location for 10-12 weeks.
___Plant bulbs until the ground freezes.
___Prep lawnmower for winter storage and snowblower for weather to come.
___Mark driveways and sidewalks with stakes.
___Finish garden cleanup to make spring easier and prevent pests.
___Do any last minute raking to prevent smothering delicate plants or beds.
___Spread fireplace ashes over beds to amend the soil.
___Make sure clay pots are stored inside and dry to prevent cracking.
___Place your used Christmas tree in the garden for added wildlife protection.
___Have trees trimmed–it’s often times cheaper and easier to schedule.
___Inspect stored summer bulbs like dahlias, cannas and glads for rotting.
___Stop feeding houseplants and cut back on watering.
___Inventory last year’s leftover seeds before ordering new ones.
___Make notes in your garden journal for changes, improvements, etc.
___Wrap trunks of susceptible trees to protect from rodents.
___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:
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
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 DECEMBER:
—We’re prepping the hundreds of poinsettias and holiday plants that go out for orders each day. After choosing the most gorgeous plants, we need to foil, bow and sleeve each order before loading into our vans for delivery to Madison’s homes, businesses and churches.
—Tropicals for next summer sale continue to arrive. Our tropicals (such as bougainvilleas, bananas, colocasias, alocasias, etc.) arrive now so we are able to get the best selection and are able to offer you substantial sized plants next summer.
—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 one of Klein’s biggest annual events and very good 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/
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
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
608/262-4364
American Horticultural Society
Garden Catalogs (an extensive list with links)
Invasive Species
Community Groundworks
3601 Memorial Dr., Ste. 4
Madison, WI 53704
608/240-0409
Madison Area Master Gardeners (MAMGA)
Wisconsin Master Gardeners Program
Department of Horticulture
1575 Linden Drive
University of Wisconsin – Madison
Madison, WI 53706
608/265-4504
The Wisconsin Gardener
Allen Centennial Gardens
620 Babcock Dr.
Madison, WI 53706
608/262-8406
Olbrich Botanical Gardens
3330 Atwood Ave.
Madison, WI 53704
608/246-4550
Rotary Gardens
1455 Palmer Dr.
Janesville, WI 53545
608/752-3885
University of WI Arboretum
1207 Seminole Hwy.
Madison, WI 53711
608/263-7888
University of Wisconsin-West Madison
Agricultural Research Center
8502 Mineral Point Rd.
Verona, WI 53593
608/262-2257
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