‘THE SAGE’-Klein’s Online Newsletter—FEBRUARY 2024
Klein’s Floral & Greenhouses
3758 E. Washington Ave.
Madison, WI 53704
608/244-5661 or info@kleinsfloral.com
THIS MONTH’S HIGHLIGHTS:
Ever Thought about Working @ a Garden Center?
Warming Moves Madison To Hardiness Zone 5b
Pre-Valentine’s Day Greetings from Klein’s Floral Department
Monrovia’s Shop Online…Shopping Made Easy
Our ‘Mad Gardener‘ and ‘Houseplant Help‘ Are Ready for Your Questions
Klein’s Favorite Seed, Bulb & Plant Sources
You Asked About Non-Blooming Holiday Cacti
Plant of the Month: Ficus
Klein’s Favorite Oregano Recipes
Product Spotlight: Klein’s 2024 Spring Seed Collection
Notes from Rick’s Garden Journal—From January 2024
—2024 Plants of the Year Awards
—Herb Lore: Natural Remedies
—A Gardener’s Poem: Scaling Down
February in the Garden: A Planner
Gardening Events Around Town
Join Us on Twitter
Follow Us on Facebook
EVER THOUGHT ABOUT WORKING AT A GARDEN CENTER?
Perhaps now’s the time to explore the possibility.
February is the perfect time to fill out an application online @ kleinsfloral.com/employment/. By early March we try to have most of our hiring in place for the upcoming spring.
We’re always in need of temporary, part-time counter help in the spring and greenhouse production swings into gear during March. If you’re interested, ask for Sue or Megan about retail positions or Michael for the greenhouse. 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.
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 on our home page and in our contacts 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.
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.
KLEIN’S ‘HOUSEPLANT HELP’
You can contact Klein’s in-house indoor plant experts by emailing to houseplanthelp@kleinsfloral.com for sound information and advice regarding indoor tropicals, succulents, blooming plants and so much more.
For many years, customers’ indoor plant questions have been directed to Klein’s Mad Gardener. Now you have the opportunity to contact our indoor plant experts directly. We’ve posted a link on our home page and in our contacts 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.
We reserve the right to leave correspondence unanswered at our discretion. Please allow 2-3 days for a response.
FEBRUARY STORE HOURS:
Monday thru Friday : 9:00-6:00
Saturday: 9:00-5:00
Sunday: 10:00-4:00
CALENDAR OF EVENTS:
February 2–Ground Hog Day
February 9-11—PBS Wisconsin’s Garden and Landscape Expo at the Alliant Energy Center. One, Two and Three Day Tickets are now available at Klein’s. Details available at www.wigardenexpo.com.
February 11–Super Bowl Sunday
February 13–Mardi Gras
February 14–Valentine’s Day. Order early for guaranteed delivery. We deliver throughout Madison and most of Dane County.
February 14–Ash Wednesday
February 17–Terrarium Class with Chris
February 19–Presidents’ Day
February 24–Full Moon
‘THE FLOWER SHOPPE’:
Pre-Valentine’s Day Greetings from Klein’s Floral Department!
Our amazing team of talented designers, Sarah, Renee, Sue, Kaycee, Bonnie and Darcy, hopes this finds you safe and healthy.
It’s hard to believe that Valentine’s Day, Wednesday, February 14, is just around the corner. Our planning for this big floral day began two months ago, and believe it or not, we’ve had our flowers ordered since mid-December.
Our floral department is comprised of a team of talented and creative designers that are here to fashion something beautiful for that special someone in your life. Nothing says “I love you” more than a spectacular, fresh, and custom designed floral bouquet. You can choose from arrangements on our website @ kleinsfloral.com (choose the floral tab), or let our designers create a one-of-a-kind bouquet for your Valentine. We love doing bouquets that are tailored to your special someone. When placing an order, your designer is going to ask you for some helpful hints, such as a favorite color or favorite flower that your Valentine might enjoy. It’s time to do a little sleuthing before the big day!
Here are some important tips that will ensure that your Valentine is well taken care of:
1. ORDER EARLY! As always, ordering early ensures timely delivery. As said above, our floral orders were placed with wholesalers in mid-December and even though we will be able to purchase additional product, we may be limited in regards to what is available. Please be open to substitutions and aware that we might run out of a particular vase or container. We will reach a point when we cannot take any more delivery orders. Pick-up is always an option for you.
2. DELIVERY: We continue to deliver within our normal delivery areas (kleinsfloral.com/delivery-information/ ). WE WILL NOT GUARANTEE SPECIFIC DELIVERY TIMES FOR VALENTINE’S DAY ORDERS. We will try our best to accommodate an a.m. or p.m. specified delivery. We WILL require a phone number for not only you, but for the recipient as well. Due to the cold, floral orders currently cannot be left outside and weather on that day can be a huge factor if inclement. Our delivery day ends about 4:00.
3. SHOP HOURS: We are open weekdays 9-6. Designers will be available to help you select something from our cooler. It will be stocked with beautiful arrangements and “grab and go” bouquets!! We will also have a large selection of blooming plants, mylar balloons, teddy bears and wonderful scented soaps, candles and lotions that you can add to your floral order.
On our website @ kleinsfloral.com, we will be offering several Klein’s custom designed bouquets for easy selection.
We look forward to assisting you with your Valentine’s Day order!! Thank you for being a Klein’s customer. We appreciate your continued business and remember to order early!
❤️Sarah, Renee, Sue, Andrea, Bonnie and Darcy❤️
YOU ASKED. . .
I have my mother’s Christmas cactus and it won’t bloom! I am wondering what I’m doing wrong. This is the second year I’ve had them and I’m stumped. Can you help me out with ideas? Cindy
Hi Cindy,
There are many possibilities, but the most common reasons are; that they were transplanted to a larger pot, the plants are being fertilized or that the plants aren’t stressed enough seasonally to promote blooming.
When blooming plants are transplanted into a new pot, it can oftentimes take a few years for them to start blooming again. They spend that time rooting out rather than putting their energy into blooming.
In addition, holiday cactus are light feeders and only require feeding (at half rate) during the summer months when they are not blooming. They should not be fertilized from August through March.
Thirdly, holiday cactus bloom best when they are put through periods of seasonal stress…being kept very dry from August to November and then being in a cool and rather dark location while setting bud in late fall. Too much artificial light will delay or prohibit blooming. Nights need to be dark.
Once finished blooming they are treated like any other houseplant until the cycle begins again in August. Holiday cactus are not cactus at all, but tropical plants. They require adequate moisture throughout late spring and most of summer.
Thanks for your question,
DID YOU KNOW. . .
. . . that you can order plants directly from Monrovia Nursery online and then pick up your order at Klein’s upon arrival in the springtime?
How To Use Monrovia’s Order Online…
Step 1: Bring Nature Home
Whether you’re looking to add a special plant to beautify your garden, or hoping to be inspired by something unique and perfectly suited for your landscape, Monrovia has the widest selection of the highest quality plants online today. From trees, shrubs and vines to stunning flowering perennials, color-rich annuals or delicious edibles, their plants are grown beautifully to thrive, ready for you to enjoy in your landscape.
Step 2: Select Your Perfect Plant
Select from the list of more than 3,000 varieties. Shop by area, by category, and by your preferred sizes. They’ll ship only when your plant is ready. Because bloom times and other conditions vary, delivery may take up to 3 to 4 weeks in spring.
Pre-ordering during the fall and winter? No problem! Monrovia will care for your plants until spring and then ship them to you when they are in prime planting condition for your landscape.
Step 3: Choose Your Garden Center
Your plant will be shipped for free to Klein’s along with our Monrovia plant order. Monrovia delivers plants nationwide to hundreds of local garden centers. Find the one that’s perfect for you if you’re not in the Madison area.
Step 4: Pick Up Locally and Easily
You’ll be notified when the plants are on the truck headed to Klein’s. We will contact you when they arrive. Your plants will arrive specially packaged with your name clearly visible. Please note that Monrovia plants are grown at many locations nationwide and can show up anytime during May and into early June.
Step 5: Get Growing
When you take your plants home, you’ll find an information label that offers step-by-step planting instructions and information. Browse Monrovia’s blog for inspiring tips and design ideas.
Click on www.monrovia.com to start.
More Useful Links To Get Your Started:
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.
Seeds Available at Klein’s Spring 2024
We at Klein’s see the light at the end of the very long tunnel called winter, once our showrooms have been emptied of all holiday merchandise and the seed racks for the upcoming growing season begin to arrive throughout January. Madisonians are passionate about home seed starting and we are happy to offer such a broad selection to satisfy their needs. For hard-to-find and less common seed varieties, please check out our list of favorite seed sources in this newsletter.
Botanical Interests High Quality Seed
At Botanical Interests our goal is to inspire and educate the gardener in you. That is why, since 1995 we have been supplying gardeners with the highest quality seed in the most beautiful and informative seed packets on the market. Today, you can find Botanical Interests seeds available at independent garden centers, hardware stores, and gourmet grocers throughout the United States. We enthusiastically signed the SAFE SEED PLEDGE: We do not knowingly buy, sell or trade genetically engineered seeds or plants.
Seed Savers Exchange Seed
Seed Savers Exchange was founded in Missouri in 1975 by Diane Ott Whealy and Kent Whealy. Diane’s grandfather entrusted to them the seeds of two garden plants, ‘Grandpa Ott’s’ morning glory and ‘German Pink’ tomato. These seeds, brought by Grandpa Ott’s parents from Bavaria when they immigrated to Iowa in the 1870s, became the first two varieties in the collection. Diane and Kent went on to form a network of gardeners interested in preserving heirloom varieties and sharing seeds. Today, with 13,000 members and 20,000 plant varieties, Seed Savers Exchange makes its home on 890 scenic acres in near Decorah, Iowa, at Heritage Farm.
Olds Garden Seed and Olds Organic Garden Seed
Olds Garden Seed is only sold through independent garden retailers nationwide. Olds is not sold by ‘big box’ stores or discount chains. While several retailers may offer our products on their web sites, we do not sell retail via the Internet or mail order. The Olds’ brand dates to 1888, when Levitt Lincoln Olds founded the L.L. Olds Seed Co. at Clinton, Wisconsin. Through the years, Olds became known for selling only the finest quality seed of better varieties, whether selling alfalfa and seed potatoes for Wisconsin farms or garden seed through a mail order catalog for over 100 years.
Livingston Seed
Livingston Seed is a wholesale company, selling only to the trade. We have done the research to find out what our consumers are looking for in a seed company. Our packets are designed to fill these needs. Each packet showcases beautiful photographs shot in our own trial garden. Every packet contains easy to read, helpful information. Our packets are truly unique and designed with your customer in mind. Our patented window in our Bonus Packs allows customers to actually see the seed!
At Livingston Seed we make it a priority to be the value leader in the industry. We offer more seed in our packets at a lower price value than any other company. We are committed to independent businesses and do not sell to the “big box” stores.
Livingston Seed Company states that all varieties offered for sale do not contain any Genetically Modified Organisms (GMO’s). We provide seeds that are developed using traditional breeding techniques and have not undergone any genetic transformation.
NOTES FROM MY GARDEN JOURNAL–Tips and Observations from My Own Garden by Rick Halbach
ENTRY: JANUARY 9, 2024 (2024 Plants of the Year Awards)
Near the end of each year, nearly every garden plant society or organization announces their plants of the year for the following growing season. I thought it might be kind of fun to share with you some of 2024’s Plants of the Year awards.
2024 Annual of the Year: Angelonia determined by the National Garden Bureau. Angelonia, sometimes referred to as “summer snapdragon,” is a genus of approximately 30 species, which grow natively in regions from Mexico to Argentina. The plants grow mostly upright, with stalks filled with flowers. Angelonia florets resemble tiny orchid-like blooms and their shape aids in pollination through hairs in the inner corolla that help bees forage for pollen. With its tolerance to heat and dry conditions, Angelonia thrives through most summer gardens with little extra maintenance or care.
***In spring, Klein’s carries a large selection of Angelonia in all colors. Visit our website to view our assortment.
2024 Edible Plant of the Year: Squash determined by the National Garden Bureau. Pumpkins, squash, and gourds have enchanted gardeners and foodies for generations with their diversity in shapes, colors, and flavors. Collectively referred to as “squash,” the Cucurbita genus has a rich history dating back over 8,000 years to Central and South America and 4,000 years later it was considered the primary agricultural crop of the ancients. The indigenous people of the Americas included squash as a central component of the “Three Sisters” or “Trinity” planting system, which combined maize, beans, and squash to create a mutually beneficial ecosystem. Squash was introduced to Europe in the late 16th century, and it quickly became a popular food crop there as well. Today, squash is enjoyed all over the world in both sweet and savory dishes.
***Klein’s carries a large assortment of many squash varieties in the springtime. Visit our website to view our assortment.
2024 Herb of the Year: Yarrow determined by the International Herb Association.
Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) is a flowering perennial that grows in North America, Asia, and Europe. It has a rich history as one of the oldest plants used medicinally, with reports of its use dating back 3,000 years. Commonly and historically, yarrow is used to help stop stomach cramps, relieve toothaches, fight eczema, heal wounds and treat irritable bowel syndrome.
***In spring, Klein’s carries a large selection of Yarrow. Visit our website to view our assortment.
2024 Hosta of the Year: ‘Mini Skirt’ determined by the American Hosta Growers Association. Wavy, thick, blue-green leaves with creamy yellow margins in spring turning to creamy white by summer. Pale purple flowers on short scapes in mid-summer. Parentage – sport of ‘Mighty Mouse’. This hosta has a mounding habit and grows to just 7″ tall and 14″ wide.
***In 2024, Klein’s will be carrying Hosta ‘Mini Skirt’ in Gallon Pots.
2024 Perennial Plant of the Year: Garden Phlox ‘Jeana’ determined by the Perennial Plant Association. An exceptional garden phlox renowned for its impressive flower show, tall sturdy habit, and pollinator-friendliness. Dense, domed trusses crown stiff stems from midsummer to early fall. Individually, the fragrant lavender-pink flowers are significantly smaller than typical garden phlox — only about half an inch wide — but the show at peak is eye-popping, nonetheless.
***In 2024, Klein’s will be carrying Garden Phlox ‘Jeana’ in Gallon Pots.
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ENTRY: JANUARY 19, 2024 (Herb Lore: Natural Remedies)
We all know that herbs make great companions in the garden and kitchen. Herbs also have a long history as a natural remedy—and many other more unusual uses, too!
Anise–Romans paid taxes with anise, and it was used in cough drops.
Basil–Precious to lovers in Italy and considered sacred in India. Many years ago, Italian men wore a sprig of basil to indicate their intended marriage. A cup of basil tea after dinner helps digestion. Ease a headache by drinking tomato juice blended with fresh basil.
Borage–The Romans believed the herb to be an antidepressant, and ancient Celtic warriors took it for courage.
Caraway–Caraway was used to scent perfumes and soaps. The Greeks used it for upset stomachs.
Chervil–Eating a whole plant would cure hiccups; chervil was said to warm old and cold stomachs.
Chives–Bunches of chives hung in your home were used to drive away diseases and evil.
Dill–Romans made wreaths and garlands out of dill. Dill keeps witches away.
Fennel–Bunches of fennel were used to drive off witches. It was used in love potions and as an appetite suppressant.
Garlic–It was thought to give strength and courage. Aristotle noted garlic’s use as a guard against the fear of water. It’s also been widely used against evil powers.
Lovage–Chewing on a piece of the dried root will keep you awake. Lovage warms a cold stomach and help digestion. Added to bathwater, it was believed to relieve skin problems.
Marjoram–The Greeks believed it could revive the spirits of anyone who inhaled it. At weddings wreaths and garlands were made of marjoram.
Mint–It was believed to cure hiccups and counteract sea-serpent stings. The Romans wore peppermint wreaths on their heads. It was added to bathwater for its fragrance.
Oregano–Used for “sour humours” that plagued old farmers. Also used for scorpion and spider bites.
Parsley–Used for wreaths and in funeral ceremonies. Believed to repel head lice and attract rabbits.
Rosemary–Rosemary in your hair will improve your memory. It will protect you from evil spirits if you put a sprig under your pillow.
Sage–Thought to promote strength and longevity and believed to cure warts. American Indians used it as a toothbrush.
Summer Savory–It was believed to be an aphrodisiac. Some thought it was a cure for deafness.
Tarragon–Put in shoes before long walking trips to give strength. It has been used to relieve toothache and as an antifungal.
Thyme–Burning thyme gets rid of insects in your house. A bed of thyme was thought to be a home for fairies.
Source: The Farmer’s Almanac
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ENTRY: JANUARY 31, 2024 (A Gardener’s Poem: Scaling Down)
Each January, as I’m ordering my seeds and plants, I ponder the gardening season that lay ahead. Sometimes the thought of all the upcoming work–the planning, the clean up, the planting and the hauling–can be daunting. Each spring I plant hundreds of containers and place them throughout the yard. I have monstrous tubs of cannas, brugmansias, elephant’s ears, pineapple lilies, dahlias, salvias and so much more stored in the basement. That’s a lot of soil to be lugging around. After 40 years of gardening, I’m hoping this madness endures for many years to come!
Paging through an old issue of Horticulture magazine I came across the following poem by Virginia Bach Folger. It seems poignant as I look to the season and years ahead.
Scaling Down
No longer fifty tulips,
But just twelve, a mere dozen.
No longer bags of daffodils
To plant and then divide each year.
This insistent heart craves armfuls
Of blooms to greet spring, but my hands
Grow cold in the autumn air, moving
Somehow slowly, now less certain.
In opposite measure, my days
Move faster, crowded and compressed.
So many used and behind me
Like candle stubs, blackened and dead.
There is so much still to breathe in,
And the vast world most untasted.
I want rainbows of flowers and
Long days lying on lush spring grass.
Will a dozen flowers suffice?
The sky above turns grey from blue.
The sunset burns to empty ash.
Place armfuls on the cold dark grass.
KLEIN’S RECIPES OF THE MONTH—These are a selection of relatively simple recipes chosen by our staff. New recipes appear monthly. Enjoy!!
Oregano and its relative, marjoram, are very similar in appearance and culture, however Marjoram is more delicate. The difference lies in their uses in the kitchen.
The popularity of Oregano in the United States did not emerge until the soldiers of World War II returning from campaigns in Italy brought home the flavors of the pizza and tomato sauces they had grown to love while being there; which explains its nickname “The Pizza Herb”. It is perfect for tomato, egg, or cheese dishes, or garlicky food where its sharp taste is not overpowering. It is a hardy perennial in zone 5.
Marjoram on the other hand, is a more tender plant, grown as an annual in zone 5. It has smaller leaves and a milder taste. It is often used in rice dishes, butter sauces, and poultry recipes. Marjoram grows wild in the Mediterranean where is has been adored for centuries.
Some oreganos bloom later than others and some, like Hopley’s, Kent Beauty, Bristol and Dittany of Crete are valued for their flowers and we view them as mainly ornamental. The best culinary ones are Italian, Turkish, Greek and Hot & Spicy. Of these, Greek and Italian bloom about mid-summer through fall and have the most flavor-filled leaves right before the flowers bloom. Although the flowers are edible too, it’s usually the leaves that are used for flavoring foods. They retain their flavor better in hot dishes if added toward the end of cooking. Heating too long may result in bitterness.
Source: http://pantrygardenherbs.com
ITALIAN MARINARA SAUCE—This is the classic base for spaghetti, lasagna, or marinara meatballs. Start it early in the morning and let it simmer all day to condense; your kitchen will smell heavenly.
2 Tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, chopped
1 or 2 cloves garlic, minced
6 cups tomatoes, peeled, seeded and diced or 3 large cans of diced tomatoes
2 tsp fresh oregano, chopped (or up to 1 tsp. dried)
1 tsp fresh thyme
2 tsp fresh basil, chopped
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
2 bay leaves
1 tsp salt
2 Tbsp balsamic or red wine vinegar
Instructions
-Sauté onion and garlic in olive oil.
-Put half of the tomatoes in the blender and puree.
-Add all the other ingredients to the pot except the vinegar and allow to simmer all day.
-Stir in the vinegar during the last half hour.
-Serve over pasta, meatballs, or both! Serves 6.
SAVORY ORANGE AND OREGANO SALAD—The mix of sweet and savory is a pleasant surprise – It’s beautiful too.
Fresh oranges or a large can of Mandarin Oranges
Red Onion thinly sliced
Olive oil
Crushed black pepper
Fresh Oregano
Lay orange slices on a plate, sprinkle with red onion slices then drizzle with olive oil. Top with fresh cracked pepper and oregano. Serves 4.
SPICY ITALIAN PIZZA SAUCE—The perfect sauce for your favorite pizza. Try it as a dipping sauce for breadsticks or fried mozzarella sticks.
1 16 oz can tomato sauce
1 Tbls olive oil
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
1 bay leaf
2 Tbsp lemon juice
2 fresh oregano leaves, chopped
3 fresh basil leaves, chopped
1 two-inch sprig of thyme, leaves only, chopped
Sauté the garlic in olive oil. Add tomato sauce, pepper flakes, bay, and lemon juice and gently simmer for 20 to 30 minutes uncovered. Add oregano, basil and thyme at the end of cooking time. Discard the bay leaf. Spread over pizza crust and top with meat, vegetables and cheese. Bake until cheese is slightly browned and crust is toasty. Serves 6.
MARINATED BLACK OLIVES—Marinated olives make a great appetizer served with chunks of cheese, are wonderful in pasta salads, and terrific on sandwiches too.
1x 6 oz can black olive
1 clove minced garlic
2 Tbs. minced fresh oregano
1 tsp. grated lemon zest
juice of 1 lemon
1/4 cup white wine vinegar
1/2 tsp. sea salt
3 Tbs. Extra virgin olive oil
1 Tbs. chopped fresh Italian Parsley
Combine all ingredients. Transfer into a quart jar and refrigerate, covered for several days before serving. Drain before serving. They will keep for up to 1 month. Serves 4.
FRESH SALSA WITH OREGANO—
6-8 medium tomatoes, pref. vine-ripened, blended or finely diced
2 tsp finely chopped oregano
1-2 jalapenos, chopped
1/4 yellow onion, finely diced
1 clove garlic, crushed
1/2 tsp. cumin
1/2 tsp. taco spice, opt.
salt and pepper, to taste
1/2 tsp. sugar, opt.
Combine ingredients in blender or food processor and blend until it reaches desired consistency.
NATURAL NEWS–
Warming Moves Madison To New Zone on the USDA Plant Hardiness Map
By Lucas Robinson at https://madison.com/
Higher average temperatures during the past 30 years have changed part of Dane
County’s “plant hardiness” zone, according to new data from the U.S. Department of
Agriculture. The USDA’s map effectively tells those interested in planting the average
extreme minimum temperature they can expect in a given area.
For Madison and most of the eastern half of Dane County, that figure now sits at
between minus 15 and minus 10 degrees, or zone “5b.” When the USDA released its
last map, in 2012, all of Dane County had average extremes of minus 20 to minus 15
degrees, or zone “5a.”
Practically speaking, though, local gardeners already have adapted to those changes,
planting earlier in the spring and later in the fall, said Nicholas Leete, the gardens
network director for Rooted, a community gardening nonprofit in Madison.
Garlic, for example, is getting planted later in the fall because of higher soil
temperatures, Leete said. Fruits such as peaches and paw paws might be viable now,
too, whereas peas and lettuce might be more challenging to grow if it gets hot too
quickly in the spring.
“I think this shift in hardiness zones, though welcome for the above reasons, is another
indicator of climate change, which in general makes weather patterns harder to predict
and plan for,” he said.
The map relies on averages and doesn’t always reflect microclimates, precipitation and
what might be wrought by extreme weather.
“We’re getting warmer and wetter, and a lot of that precipitation is happening in the
winter,” said Lisa Johnson, a horticulture outreach specialist with UW Extension in
Dane County. “That I think is really causing farmers more issues. If you have deeper
snow cover or it’s rainier in spring, then you can’t get out into the fields.”
Beyond Madison, zone changes were registered throughout Wisconsin. Parts of the
Lake Michigan coast near Milwaukee were warmer as well as parts of the far northwest
of the state.
It’s not just Madison and Wisconsin seeing changes in their zone, either. Half of the
United States saw its zone change with the new map, something that’s “really
remarkable,” said Jonathan Martin, a professor in atmospheric and oceanic sciences at
UW-Madison.
“That means effectively half the country has experienced enough warming in the last 30
years to affect where the plant hardiness sits for that location,” Martin said. “It may not
be all climate change. But the fact that half the country’s rising to another half zone at
least really does reflect the ongoing change that’s going on across the globe.”
FEBRUARY’S PLANT OF THE MONTH:
FICUS (Ornamental Figs)
There are few houseplants with more diversity than the ficus (fig) family, ranging from ground covers (creeping fig) to stately trees. And few houseplants are easier to grow, given a few basic requirements. They don’t like to get too dry and they don’t like to get moved around too much. Both result in leaf drop, which is usually not too detrimental for the plant, but oftentimes causes a panic in the owner. No ficus is hardy in Wisconsin so all must be treated as houseplants. Most can take rather low light, so are perfect for our long winters. Some, like the rubber tree (F. elastica) and the fiddleleaf fig (F. lyrata), prefer a more moderate light.
The most common ficus that people are familiar with is the weeping fig (F. benjamina). Most varieties grow into a beautiful tree and can be purchased in shrub form, with a single straight stem, with braided stems or more recently with a corkscrew stem. Leaves are a shiny green and can be variegated or elongated (F. benjamina ‘Alii’, an exceptionally beautiful variety).
Key to a ficus’ success is correct watering. They like to remain moist, but never soggy, allowing them to dry out more during the dead of winter. Letting them dry out too much too often will result in leaf drop, but don’t panic. Simply water as normal and don’t move the plant. Soon the leaf drop will cease and you may even see some new growth. Moving the plant will add to the leave drop and continuous moving will compound the problem even more.
Ficus love to spend the summers outdoors. You won’t believe how fast they grow if allowed to spend some time in some warm rains. Place in a shady spot to avoid leaf scorch. Under a tree or a spot without an overhang is best. Move the plant back indoors before the first frost, pruning as desired. Once indoors, it will begin losing leaves after a few weeks–lots of them! But again, don’t panic, don’t move it and let it acclimate. You won’t see much growth during the winter, but come February each tip will be bright green with new foliage. As with all houseplants, it’s best not to fertilize from November thru February, as not to encourage new growth.
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.
Orchid Escape @ Olbrich Gardens
Thru March 3, 10:00-4:00 daily
Marvel at eye-popping color around every turn and bathe your senses in botanical bliss. Orchid Escape features roughly 1,000 blooming orchids artfully displayed for your enjoyment, including new orchids special ordered from vendors as well as specimens from our own permanent collections.
Admission:
$8 – General Admission
$5 – Child (ages 6-12)
FREE – Ages 5 & under
FREE – Olbrich members (adult/child)
Olbrich Botanical Gardens
3330 Atwood Ave., Madison
608/246-4550 or www.olbrich.org for details.
35th Annual Orchid Quest 2023 @ Olbrich Gardens
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. 2024 will be the 34th year for the Madison Orchid Growers Guild to host Orchid Quest.
Olbrich Botanical Gardens is the host for our orchid show. There will be both an exhibit area to view, and a vendor area with thousands of fragrant orchids for sale. Also planned will be growing seminars, raffle, silent auction and plenty of advice for orchid growers (new and experienced)! Visit orchidgrowersguild.org for more details. Admission and parking free.
Olbrich Botanical Gardens
3330 Atwood Ave., Madison
608/246-4550 or www.olbrich.org for details.
Nature Hike @ the Arboretum
Sunday, February 4, 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm
Learn about the land, plants, animals, fungi, phenology, and ecology. Geared for adults, these longer walks may cover some sloping terrain. Wear sturdy closed-toe shoes. Walks canceled for unsafe weather or trail conditions. Free, no registration required. Meet at the Visitor Center.
University of WI Arboretum
1207 Seminole Hwy.
Madison, WI 53711
608/263-7888 or arboretum.wisc.edu
Family Nature Walk @ the Arboretum
Sunday, February 4, 1:30 pm – 2:30 pm
This walk is a fun, fascinating way for families with children elementary age and younger to explore the natural world. Adults must attend. Wear sturdy closed-toe shoes and come prepared for weather and insects. Walks canceled for unsafe weather or trail conditions. Free, no registration required. Meet at the Visitor Center.
University of WI Arboretum
1207 Seminole Hwy.
Madison, WI 53711
608/263-7888 or arboretum.wisc.edu
Wisconsin Garden & Landscape Expo @ Alliant Energy Center
Friday, February 9, 12:00-7:00
Saturday, February 10, 9:00-6:00
Sunday, February 11, 10:00-4:00
CULTIVATE A LOVE OF GARDENING
PBS Wisconsin’s Garden & Landscape Expo is a three-day event celebrating the latest trends in gardening, landscaping, local foods and ecological sustainability. Now in its 31st year, this event offers more than 150 free educational presentations, an exhibitor mall, UW-Madison Extension Horticulture experts, a floral design competition, PBS KIDS Backyard and more. All proceeds support PBS Wisconsin.
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 $10 in advance, $12 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
608/267-3976 or www.alliantenergycenter.com
The Canopy Sessions at Olbrich Gardens
Friday, February 9 and Friday, March 1, 6:00-8:00 p.m.
Start your weekend with a live concert performed in one of Madison’s most unique venues: the Bolz Conservatory! Explore the tropics, enjoy the warmth, and be entertained by some of the area’s most talented musicians.
$10 – General Admission
$6 – Child (Ages 6-12)
FREE – Ages 5 & under
- Event Guidelines
- Bar service available in the Conservatory
- Lobby doors open at 5:30 p.m. Conservatory doors open at 6 p.m.
- This is a strolling concert, so no seating is provided, through there are a few benches in the Conservatory. No carry-in chairs.
- The Canopy Sessions are amplified performances, not acoustic.
- You are encouraged to purchase tickets in-advance online @ Order Tickets . If the concert does not sell out online, remaining tickets will be available at the door.
- For ticket assistance, call Mike Gibson, Program Specialist, at 608-243-0156
- A limited number of reduced fee tickets are available. To request a fee waiver, please contact Mike Gibson, Program Specialist, at mgibson2@cityofmadison.com.
The Canopy Sessions 2024 Schedule:
February 9:
Kikeh Mato Afro Pop—Griot and Djembefola Mandjou Mara create contemporary music with the Afro-pop group Kikeh Mato. Kikeh Mato means “look at the moon”, as Mandjou notes the power of the moon to provide solace, inspiration, and hope.
March 1:
Son del Atlantico—Saxophonist and composer Edi Rey brings the Afro-Caribbean music of Colombia to Madison with Son del Atlantico. They play Cumbia, Chande, Cumbion, Vallenato, and Porro fused with funk, rock and reggae.
Olbrich Botanical Gardens
3330 Atwood Ave., Madison
608/246-4550 or www.olbrich.org for details.
Nature Hike @ the Arboretum
Sunday, February 11, 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm
Learn about the land, plants, animals, fungi, phenology, and ecology. Geared for adults, these longer walks may cover some sloping terrain. Wear sturdy closed-toe shoes. Walks canceled for unsafe weather or trail conditions. Free, no registration required. Meet at the Visitor Center.
University of WI Arboretum
1207 Seminole Hwy.
Madison, WI 53711
608/263-7888 or arboretum.wisc.edu
Olbrich Botanical Garden’s Annual Open House
Saturday, February 17, 10:00 am – 4:000 pm
Kick off 2024 with a free, fun-filled day of activities at Olbrich Gardens, including FeLion Studios’ community iron pour, Pour’n Yer Heart Out! Learn more about what’s coming at the Gardens this year!
FREE – Activities, live performances, and demonstrations. There will be food and beverages offered for sale.
Drop-in Activities
Create a masterpiece – family friendly drop-in activities offered in the Frautschi Family Learning Center.
Stretch those fingers and exercise your origami skills at the spring show craftacular – make one, take one – paper stars! Your star creations will become part of the décor for Olbrich’s celestial themed Spring Flower Show in March.
Dig deeper with presentations on Olbrich’s Garden Scouts program, orchid potting and how we create the Thai Garden’s tropical look!
For a full list of workshops and their registration info, visit Open House Info.
Olbrich Botanical Gardens
3330 Atwood Ave., Madison
608/246-4550 or www.olbrich.org for details.
Friends of Allen Centennial Gardens 2024 Winter Series
The 2024 presentation series, brought to you by the Friends of Allen Centennial Gardens in partnership with the garden, will include 3 sessions, one each in January, February and March. The first two sessions will be virtual and the third will be in person in the Horticulture Building at 1575 Linden Dr on campus.
The programs will reflect different aspects of Allen Garden’s 2024 theme, “Enchanted Ground”. How can the use of plants, installations and other garden features create a magical place? How are societies and individual creativity reflected in gardens through history and across cultures? How can our individual perspectives and interests be infused into an “enchanted” space of our own?
Registration is required. $15 per session/ Free for FACG members.
For more information and to register visit https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/2024-winter-presentation-series-2870249
Saturday, February 17, 2024, 10:00 – 11:00 CST (Virtual)
“Maintaining and developing English Gardens – A focus on the magic behind Hidcote Manor Garden and William Shakespeare’s”
Bertie Swainston, Horticulturalist, Royal Horticultural Society, RHS Garden Harlow Carr, England
Saturday, March 16, 2024, 10:00 – 11:00 CST (In person)
“Designing Your Home Landscape”
Christopher Sina, Landscape Architect, Saiki Design, Madison
Held in the Horticulture Building at 1575 Linden Dr
Allen Centennial Gardens:
620 Babcock Dr. on the University of WI campus, Madison
608/576-2501 or allencentennialgarden.org for details.
Nature Hike @ the Arboretum
Sunday, February 18, 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm
Learn about the land, plants, animals, fungi, phenology, and ecology. Geared for adults, these longer walks may cover some sloping terrain. Wear sturdy closed-toe shoes. Walks canceled for unsafe weather or trail conditions. Free, no registration required. Meet at the Visitor Center.
University of WI Arboretum
1207 Seminole Hwy.
Madison, WI 53711
608/263-7888 or arboretum.wisc.edu
Extraordinary Evergreens @ the Arboretum
Sunday, February 18, 1:30 pm – 3:30 pm
Family Nature Program
This program is a fun, fascinating way for families with children elementary age and younger to explore the natural world. Nature walk: 1:30–2:30 p.m., activities: 2:30–3:30 p.m. Adults must attend. Wear sturdy closed-toe shoes and come prepared for weather. Walks canceled for unsafe weather or trail conditions. Free, no registration required. Meet at the Visitor Center.
University of WI Arboretum
1207 Seminole Hwy.
Madison, WI 53711
608/263-7888 or arboretum.wisc.edu
Full Moon Night Walk @ the Arboretum
Saturday, February 24, 6:30 pm – 8:00 pm
Let your eyes adjust to the moonlight, listen to the night sounds, and experience the darkness on this naturalist-led walk (full moon February 24). Wear sturdy closed-toe shoes and come prepared for weather. Walks canceled for unsafe weather or trail conditions. Free, register through Eventbrite by February 20: uw-madison-arboretum.eventbrite.com . Meet at the Visitor Center.
University of WI Arboretum
1207 Seminole Hwy.
Madison, WI 53711
608/263-7888 or arboretum.wisc.edu
Scenic Stroll @ the Arboretum
Sunday, February 25, 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm
This gently paced walk explores ecological communities near the Visitor Center. Themes may include the land, plants, animals, other organisms, phenology, and ecology. Wear sturdy closed-toe shoes and come prepared for weather. Routes are wheelchair accessible when weather allows. Walks canceled for unsafe weather or route conditions. Free, no registration required. Meet at the Visitor Center.
University of WI Arboretum
1207 Seminole Hwy.
Madison, WI 53711
608/263-7888 or arboretum.wisc.edu
Dane County Late Winter Farmer’s Market
Saturdays, January 6 thru April 13, 8:00-noon
The Garver Feed Mill behind Olbrich Botanical Gardens
3241 Garver Green (access off Fair Oaks Ave.)
The Late Winter Market runs each Saturday from January 6th 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.
For details visit www.dcfm.org
FEBRUARY IN THE GARDEN-–A checklist of things to do this month.
___Check perennials for heaving during warm spells. Re-mulch as needed.
___Continue bringing out your cooled forced bulbs for indoor enjoyment.
___Inspect stored summer bulbs like dahlias, cannas and glads for rotting.
___Check for and treat for pests on plants brought in from the garden.
___Keep bird feeders full. Clean periodically with soap and water.
___Repair and clean out birdhouses. Early arrivals will be here soon!
___Inventory last year’s leftover seeds before ordering or buying new ones.
___Order seeds and plants. Some of our very favorite seed and plant sources include:
___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
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.comor 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 FEBRUARY:
—We’re readying ourselves for Valentine’s Day awaiting the onslaught by prepping the thousands of additional cut flowers, unpacking all the beautiful vases and containers, ordering hundreds of blooming plants and securing additional delivery vehicles and staff.
—Spring plants begin arriving enforce! After Valentine’s Day the first spring bedding annuals arrive. Pansies, violas and dianthus plugs are popped into cell packs so they’re ready for early April sales.
—We’re planting up our thousands of mixed annuals hanging baskets. The geranium hanging baskets planted in January are filling out and almost ready for their first pinching and shaping.
—We reopen greenhouses in our back range as needed. They’ve been shut down to save on heat and eliminate pest problems.
—The deadline approaches for Easter orders. Dozens of area churches order lilies, tulips, hyacinths, daffodils, mums, hydrangeas and azaleas for Easter delivery.
—Spring product begins arriving for unpacking and pricing–the pots, the tools, the sundries. We need to have everything priced and ready to go by April 1.
—We continue 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.
PERMANENT FEATURES–
KLEIN’S MONTHLY NEWSLETTER
Have our monthly newsletter e-mailed to you automatically by signing up on the top of our home page @ kleinsfloral.com . 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.
KLEIN’S ‘HOUSEPLANT HELP’
You can contact Klein’s in-house indoor plant experts by emailing to houseplanthelp@kleinsfloral.com for sound information and advice regarding indoor tropicals, succulents, blooming plants and so much more.
For many years, customers’ indoor plant questions have been directed to Klein’s Mad Gardener. Now you have the opportunity to contact our indoor plant experts directly. We’ve posted a link on our home page and in our contacts 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.
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 Twitterwhere we post company updates and photos on a regular basis.
SENIOR CITIZEN DISCOUNT
We offer a 5% 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.
DELIVERY INFO
Klein’s Floral and Greenhouses delivers daily, except Sundays, throughout all of Madison and much of Dane County including: Cottage Grove, Deerfield, DeForest, Fitchburg, Maple Bluff, Marshall, McFarland, Middleton, Monona, Oregon, Shorewood Hills, Sun Prairie, Verona, Waunakee and Windsor. We do not deliver to Cambridge, Columbus 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, Deerfield, 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.
Horticulturalist & General Manager–Jamie VandenWymelenberg jamie@kleinsfloral.com
Floral Manager—Sarah Somson floral@kleinsfloral.com
Houseplant Buyer, Newsletter Coordinator—Rick Halbach rick@kleinsfloral.com
Purchasing—Megan Johnson megan@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