‘THE SAGE’-Klein’s Online Newsletter—FEBRUARY 2025
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?
UW Extension’s Green Thumb Gardening Series Runs Through March
Our ‘Mad Gardener‘ and ‘Houseplant Help‘ Are Ready for Your Questions
Klein’s Favorite Seed, Bulb & Plant Sources
The Best Natural Cough Remedies
Valentine’s Day Rose Trivia
You Asked About a Struggling Chinese Money Plant
Plant of the Month: Monstera deliciosa (Split-leaf Philodendron)
Klein’s Favorite Barley Recipes
Product Spotlight: Potting Mixes from Coast of Maine®
Notes from Rick’s Garden Journal—From January 2025
—The Cute & Industrious Gray Squirrel
—Seeds from Johnny’s Selected Seeds
—Happy Dreaming
February in the Garden: A Planner
Gardening Events Around Town
Review Klein’s @: Yelp, Google Reviews or Facebook Reviews
Join Us on Twitter
Follow Us on Facebook
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.
HAVE YOU MOVED RECENTLY?
If so, we ask that as we go into the busy spring season, you update your new address in association with Klein’s Rewards Program so you continue to receive all possible benefits.
In addition to occasional coupons, we’ve been mailing out birthday month postcards with an added gift during the past year or so and find that many are being returned with an invalid address. We don’t want you to miss out!
If your address has recently changed, please send your new information to info@kleinsfloral.com and please include your name and your old address as reference.
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:
Throughout February–Have you ever thought about working at a garden center? Perhaps now’s the time to explore the possibility.
February is the perfect time to apply @ 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 and April. 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.
February 2–Ground Hog Day
February 7-9—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 9–Super Bowl Sunday
February 12–Full Moon
February 14–Valentine’s Day. Order early for guaranteed delivery. We deliver throughout Madison and most of Dane County.
February 17–Presidents’ Day
‘THE FLOWER SHOPPE’:
Rose Trivia
For centuries, roses have inspired love and brought beauty to those who have received them. In fact, the rose’s rich heritage dates back thousands of years. If floral orders are
a reliable measure of popularity, the rose is America’s favorite flower. This beloved bloom is as rich in history as it is in fragrance and beauty. Below are a few interesting facts about the rose.
—The largest rose bloom ever bred was a pink rose measuring approximately 33 inches in diameter, bred by Nikita K. Rulhoksoffski from San Onofre, California.
—The largest living rose is in Tombstone, Arizona. When it is in bloom it has over 200,000 blossoms, and is supported by an arbor under which people can sit. It is a white Rosa banksiae.
—The longest living rose is believed to be over a thousand years old and grows on the wall of Hildesheim in Germany. Its presence has been documented since 815 A.D. It is a wild dog rose, or Rosa canina.
—Rosa Mundi (R. gallica versicolor) is the oldest striped rose variety, available since 1581.
—The oldest fossilized imprint of a rose was found in Florissant, Colorado, and is estimated to be 35 million years old.
—One rose hip contains as many as 40 to 50 seeds.
—The miniature rose Overnight Sensation was the first rose to leave Earth for experiments in space. The purpose was to test the effect of low gravity on fragrance.
—Rose hips contain more Vitamin C than oranges. The farther north of the equator a rose hip is grown, the richer it is said to be in Vitamin C. Rugosa rose hips are said to be the best source of Vitamin C.
—There are no species roses which originate south of the equator.
—Buds of the smallest roses are the size of a grain of rice.
—There are no true-blue or black species roses because roses lack a gene to produce delphinidin, which is the source of blue coloring.
—The rose is the national flower of England, Honduras, Iran, Poland, Romania, and the United States. It is the official state flower of Georgia, Iowa, New York, North Dakota, the District of Columbia, and the province of Alberta.
—The state flower of Georgia, the Cherokee Rose, is R. laevigata, which actually originated in China. Scholars are unsure how it managed to spread across the southern United States by the time Michaux discovered it in Georgia in 1788.
—June is National Rose Month in the United States.
—The American Rose Society was appointed the International Registration Authority for Roses at the 14th International Horticultural Congress in Scheveningen, Holland in 1955.
—The rose was chosen as herb of the year for 2012.
—The Peace Rose was first known as #3-35-40 and was hybridized by Francis Meilland in 1935. Buds were passed around the world, and several nurseries started growing it. A German nursery called it Gloria Dei, an Italian nursery called it Gioia, and it was also known as Madame A. Meilland in honor of the hybridizer’s mother. It was formally named and introduced on April 29, 1945, as the Peace Rose.
—Attar of roses takes 180 pounds of roses—about 60,000 flowers—to make a fluid ounce of rose oil.
—Most often, the highest concentration of fragrance is in the rose petal.
—The first patent issued for a plant was a patent for a hybridized rose which gave ever-blooming characteristics to the climbing rose. It was issued by the United States Patent Office on August 18, 1931.
—The Rose Bowl Parade started as a procession of flower-covered carriages in 1890 as a celebration of California’s mild winter climate.
—The Tournament of Roses was patterned after the Battle of the Flowers held in Nice, France. Afternoon games included foot races, tug-of-war contests, and sack races.
—On October 11, 1492, the crew on the Nina sighted a branch with rose berries in the ocean. The ship had been becalmed in the Sargasso Sea, and this, along with other sightings, encouraged the crew and Christopher Columbus to press onward and discover America. We don’t know whether rose berries refers to red berries, or rose hips.
—The Latin phrase sub rosa means “under the rose” and is used in English to denote secrecy or confidentiality.
—The War of the Roses in England was fought between the House of Lancaster, which had a red rose as its emblem, and the House of York, which had a white rose as its emblem. Soldiers at that time did not wear uniforms, but did wear a small patch on their clothing to identify the side of the battle they were on. The ultimate winner in the War of the Roses was Henry Tudor, and the Tudors adopted a badge that featured both red and white.
—The rose may be the most popular flower mentioned in songs. Some chart topping hits include, “The Yellow Rose of Texas,” popular during the 1970’s. “The Rose,” by Bette Midler topped the charts. Hits from the early 1900’s include, “Woodland Rose,” “Bring Me a Rose.” Other more modern songs include “Eighteen Wheels and a Dozen Roses,” “Desert Rose,” “Like the Red on a Rose,” and “Every Rose Has Its Thorn.”
Sources: garden.org and www.professorshouse.com/
YOU ASKED. . .
I purchased an adorable Chinese money plant (Pilea peperomiodes) from you. I am wondering your suggestions for keeping it healthy and happy. I notice as the leaves get larger they turn slightly brown on the edge, then fall off. I water once a week, about 1-2 tablespoons directly into the soil. The plant is located on the west side in our home/not direct sunlight. Tammy
Hi Tammy,
Based on what you’ve said in your email, I feel your Chinese money plant is being underwatered. When watered, they require deep watering and not just the few tablespoons you’re giving it. Between waterings, they can get to the point of being dry to the touch before being watered again. This can be more or less than once per week based on the humidity in your home. As a rule, Pilea (the family your plant belongs to) lean toward being consistently moist rather than dry. Your light conditions sound perfect, however.
Thanks for your question,
madgardener@kleinsfloral.com, houseplanthelp@kleinsfloral.com
DID YOU KNOW. . .
. . . that the ever-popular UW Extension Green Thumb Spring Gardening Series continues through March?
The Green Thumb Gardening vegetable series will help you to keep your kitchen garden thriving! The series covers many aspects of vegetable gardening for a robust background in vegetable production. UW-Madison Extension educators and UW specialists will provide in-depth, practical information for the novice to the experienced gardener. Classes are recorded (except Vegetable Diseases) and handouts are provided for your further review after each session.
All classes are Thursdays 5:30 – 7:30 pm. Register for the complete class series at a discounted price ($110.00) or individual classes ($12.00) according to your interests.
Full Vegetable Series – All classes are live; recordings are sent to registrants after the event (vegetable disease management is not recorded).
Visit dane.extension.wisc.edu/events/gt-veg-winter-2025-1/ for further details and to register.
No Class February 6 Due to Garden Expo @ the Alliant Energy Center
February 13: Composting
February 20: Vegetable Disease Management (this class is not recorded)
February 27: Vegetable Insect Management
March 6: Weed Management
March 13: Cover Crops for the Garden
March 20: Succession Planting, Companion Planting, and Season Extension
March 27: Seed Saving, Harvesting, and Storage
Please contact Lisa Johnson @ 608-224-3715 or johnson.lisa@countyofdane.com with questions or for more information.
Or visit: Isthmus Calendar of Garening Eventsfor this and many garden related events in the Madison area.
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.
Coast of Maine® Handcrafted Organic Soils and Soil Amendments
Coast of Maine Organic Products was founded in 1996 with the simple idea that a healthy planet needs healthy soil to sustain life. From this idea, a love of gardening and a commitment to sustainable practices, Coast of Maine Organic Products has grown to offer what we believe are the most unique and effective organic gardening products available. Our organically approved, compost-based soils, enriching mulches, soil supplements and liquid fertilizers are designed to enhance and support healthy soil biology. We compost residuals sourced locally in Maine and New Brunswick, such as shellfish (lobster & crab), salmon, wild blueberries, and cow manure. Additional local ingredients include: tree bark, worm castings, and seaweed. Coast of Maine distributes organic retail bagged goods to independent garden centers along the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic, and parts of the Mid-West.
Not sold in “big box” stores! Coast of Maine proudly supports the local garden centers and retailers. It has long been the philosophy of the Coast of Maine brand that our locally made products should be sold by local independent retailers and garden centers that feed the local economy. Independent garden centers and retailers specialize in gardening. They provide a level of superior knowledge, customer service and community support that the big-box, mass retail stores just can’t match.
Klein’s Featured Products:
—Indoor Houseplant Mix
Specially formulated for indoor houseplants and flowers using natural ingredients sourced from oceans and farms. Made with coarse coconut coir, perlite, and aged bark to optimize drainage and aeration for robust root development. Whether you are growing peace lilies, spider plants, philodendrons, monsteras, or other popular or exotic houseplants, this unique compost-free blend provides the optimum structure and benefits for nurturing strong, beautiful indoor plants and flowers.
—Cactus & Succulent Mix
Uniquely crafted to provide a soil blend that serves all your cactus, succulent, tropical palm and citrus plant gardening needs. It is made from a carefully cultivated combination of sphagnum peat, composted manure, perlite, sand, aged bark, biochar, fish bone meal, and kelp meal. It is the ready-to-use mix designed with organic and natural nutrients to nurture a robust root system, nourish your plants and promote enduring growth.
—Planting Soil for Annuals
Formulated for colorful, vibrant annuals like zinnias, salvias, dahlias, pansies and more. This specially crafted compost blend helps balance moisture retention and drainage for growing in-ground and container annuals. Ideal for garden beds, borders, hanging baskets and containers.
—Tomato & Vegetable Planting Soil
The optimal soil conditioner to revitalize the soil in and around your vegetable garden beds. It is naturally lightweight and contains just the right ingredients to grow plentiful, flavorful tomatoes and vegetables. Made with premium ingredients, it contains compost, lobster, and lime. Available in 20qt bags.
—Planting Soil for Roses & Flowers
The ideal planting mix to improve and revitalize the soil in and around all of your rose varieties, flowering annuals, and perennials. Perfect for supporting continual blooms and healthy foliage. Made with premium ingredients, it contains compost, aged bark, and lime. Available in 20qt bags.
—Planting Soil for Acid-Loving Plants
The ideal planting mix to improve and revitalize the soil in and around plants that thrive in lower pH soils like: rhododendrons, azaleas, hollies, blueberries, strawberries, ferns, fuchsias, camellias, dogwoods, and conifers. Made with premium ingredients, it contains compost, sphagnum peat moss, and aged bark. Available in 20qt bags.
NOTES FROM MY GARDEN JOURNAL–Tips and Observations from My Own Garden by Rick Halbach
ENTRY: JANUARY 4, 2025 (The Cute & Industrious Gray Squirrel)
Looking around the yard right now, there are at least a dozen (if not more) squirrels in the yard foraging for dropped seed under my many birdfeeders. While most people who feed birds find squirrels a nuisance, I find their antics interesting and enjoyable. To dissuade them from going after the birdfeeders, I’ve set up their own feeding stations of cob corn and other waste seed away from the other feeders. After years of unending battles, I have yet to see a squirrel on any of my feeders so far this season.
About Gray Squirrels
The Eastern Gray Squirrel is a tree dwelling rodent, a very common species of squirrels, mostly found in North America. It is a tree squirrel, which belongs to the genus Scirus, and is native to Midwestern United states. It is often found in woodlands, suburban areas and urban areas. It is a prolific and an adaptable species. It was earlier introduced in the areas western United States, and now it thrives there. These squirrels are not gray in color; they are actually a mixture of black, browns and whites. They are actually banded with whitish ends, due to which they assume a grayish look.
Habitat
The Eastern Gray Squirrel is the largest of all tree squirrels that is found in eastern North America. It inhabits large areas of the dense woodlands and the ecosystem that spreads across 40 acres of land. Since they are predominantly nut-eating species, they are found in the vast tracts of Oak and Hickory forests in North America. These forests are the habitat of these squirrels since they contain dense vegetation which is a source of food for these squirrels. Eastern Gray Squirrels construct their dens on the bare branches and hollow branches of trees. They also use the abandoned nests of other birds for shelter.
The dens of the squirrels are lined with mosses, dried plants and thistledown, which help in the insulation of the den and reduces heat loss. The den also requires a cover, which these squirrels generally build it afterwards. These squirrels are also found in parks and backyards of the houses in the urban setting. They may be found in the farmlands of rural areas. This squirrel has been introduced in Great Britain, Australia and South Africa and are now considered invasive in those areas. The squirrels spend their maximum time in the trees, and moves about in the tress with great agility.
The eastern gray squirrels build a nest, which is called the drey. This nest is built in the fork of the trees. Drey is made up of dry leaves and twigs. Squirrels also build their nest in the exterior walls of house. They may also take permanent shelter in a tree den.
Behavior
The Eastern gray squirrels are very similar in behavior to the other rodents. They are alert, aggressive and inquisitive rodents, which are very fast at moving and jumping through the tree tops. They are a scatter-hoarder like other rodents, since they hoard huge quantities of food for future. The squirrels can make several thousand caches per season. They have a very spatial memory, since they need to decide the location of these caches, and also make landmarks to retrieve them. They have a good sense of smell, since they can smell these caches from a distance of few centimeters. They are one of those few mammalian species, which descend o the tree with their head first.
These squirrels are more active during the day than by the night. They are the busiest at afternoon and dawn. They are quite active animals, and work throughout the year, are even capable of feeding themselves at any season, be it snow storms, or the dry summer. They are easily capable of negotiating the trees, vines and shrubs. They have incisor teeth, which grow constantly, and are constantly sharpened by gnawing of the bark, plastic and metal objects that is available around. They do not require hibernation; therefore do not hibernate at all.
Reproduction
There are two breeding seasons for the Eastern gray squirrels in a year. One season starts from December to February, and the second is sometime around May to late June. The female squirrels are not capable of breeding in their first year of birth. The males are very promiscuous as breeders, and they indulge themselves in considerable activity during breeding. The Eastern Squirrel gestation period is for about 44 days. After this gestation period, the squirrels produce approximately 2 to 6 young, naked and pink babies. The number may even be increased to 8. The young ones have larger head and feet, as compared to the other body structures at the time of birth, and even their eyes are closed. They are slow maturing. They are completely furred with bushy tail. The gray squirrels run about the trees during their courtship ritual. While in captivity, they can live for 20 years, but in the wild, their maximum life is 12.5 years.
Diet
The eastern gray squirrels feed on tree bark, seeds, walnuts, acorns, and the other kind of nuts, and the various fungi that are found in the forest region. They are an opportunist in searching for food, and therefore can adapt to a wide variety of habitats. They have different diet plans for various seasons, since they look for the availability of different food in different seasons. They feed on buds of hardwood trees in spring, winged seeds of maple in summer, along with some other berries and other wild fruits. During autumn, their diet comprises mostly of hard nuts, bitternuts, hickory nuts, beechnuts, pine seeds and butternuts. They are industrious hoarders in this point of the year.
Squirrels have a very good sense of smell, due to which they can find the berries that are buried in the ground. They use the bird’s feeders to find their food during winter. Not only nuts, are squirrels also fond of eating insects, young birds and caterpillars. But they prey on these birds and insects in very rare occasions, when food is scarce. Very rarely, they eat bones also.
Source: www.animalspot.net
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ENTRY: JANUARY 14, 2025 (Seeds from Johnny’s Selected Seeds)
Seeds that I ordered earlier in the month for my 2025 flower and vegetable garden are appearing almost daily in my mailbox. Today’s arrival came from Johnny’s Selected Seeds of Winslow, Maine. They are my favorite source for their wide variety of vegetables and a few cut flower choices.
About Johnny’s Selected Seed
For over 48 years Johnny’s Selected Seeds has been helping families and friends to feed one another. Everything we do here is focused on helping you have a successful growing experience. We understand that putting the seeds in the ground is but a small part of your total investment of time, energy, and money. When you buy from Johnny’s, you can be confident that the seeds you are planting are fresh, vital, and of superior quality. We guarantee it.
Johnny’s does not knowingly sell genetically modified seeds; nor do we breed new varieties using genetic engineering. Our breeders use traditional, painstaking methods of natural crossing to create hybrid seeds that are healthy and safe. We are proud to be one of the nine original signers of the Safe Seed Pledge.
Johnny’s has been farming organically for over 45 years, and we have been a MOFGA-Certified Organic Seed Handler since 1979. We offer hundreds of varieties of certified organic vegetable, herb, flower, fruit, and farm seeds allowable for certified organic production, and remain true to our commitment to diversify our certified organic seed offerings.
Source: www.johnnyseeds.com
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ENTRY: JANUARY 30, 2025 (Happy Dreaming)
“From December to March, there are for many of
us three gardens:
the garden outdoors,
the garden of pots and bowls in the house,
and the garden of the mind’s eye.”
– Katherine S. White
Happy Dreaming!
KLEIN’S RECIPES OF THE MONTH—These are a selection of relatively simple recipes chosen by our staff. New recipes appear monthly. Enjoy!!
Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.), a member of the grass family, is a major cereal grain. It was one of the first cultivated grains and is now grown widely. Barley grain is a staple in Tibetan cuisine and was eaten widely by peasants in Medieval Europe. Barley has also been used as animal fodder, as a source of fermentable material for beer and certain distilled beverages, and as a component of various health foods. It is used in soups and stews, and in barley bread of various cultures. Barley grains are commonly made into malt in a traditional and ancient method of preparation.
Barley at a Glance
How important is barley to civilization? Aside from its use as food, barley is the root of the English measurement system. In 1324 Edward II of England standardized the inch as equal to “three grains of barley, dry and round, placed end to end lengthwise.” The foot, the yard, the mile, and all other English measurements followed on.
While inches and feet have given way to centimeters and meters in most of the world, barley is still central to the world’s food supply. In fact, it’s the world’s fourth most important cereal crop after wheat, rice, and corn.
Barley is highest in fiber of all the whole grains, with common varieties clocking in at about 17% fiber, and some, such as the variety called Prowashonupana barley (marketed by Conagra as Sustagrain), having up to 30% fiber! (For comparison, brown rice contains 3.5% fiber, corn about 7%, oats 10% and wheat about 12%.) While the fiber in most grains is concentrated largely in the outer bran layer, barley’s fiber is found throughout the whole grain, which may account for its extraordinarily high levels.
But the goodness of whole grains comes from more than fiber. Whole grain barley is high in antioxidants, vitamins and minerals essential to health, too. However, much of the barley eaten in the U.S. is pearled or pearl barley, which is missing some or all of its bran layer.
As it grows in the field, most barley has an inedible hull adhering tightly to the grain kernel. The easiest, quickest way to remove this inedible hull is to scrape (pearl) it off without worrying too much about how much bran comes off at the same time. To make sure you’re enjoying true whole grain barley, look for hulled barley (barley where the inedible hull was removed carefully, keeping any bran loss to insignificant levels) or hulless barley (a different variety that grows without a tightly-attached hull).
Health Benefits of Barley
In scientific studies, barley has been shown to reduce the risk of many diseases, and to provide important health benefits. Barley offers many of the same healthy vitamins and minerals as other whole grains, but many think its special health benefits stem from the high levels of soluble beta-glucan fiber found in this grain.
According to a recent review in the journal Minerva Med, beta-glucans reduce cholesterol, help control blood sugar, and improve immune system function. New research even indicates that beta-glucans may be radioprotective: they may help our bodies stand up better to chemotherapy, radiation therapy and nuclear emergencies.
—Barley, like all whole grains, reduces blood pressure.
—Eating barley has been shown to lower LDL “bad” cholesterol and may help reduce the risk of heart disease.
—A flood of recent research indicates that barley’s ability to control blood sugar may be exceptional, offering an important tool against rising rates of diabetes.
—Barley has more protein than corn, brown rice, millet, sorghum or rye, and is higher in fiber and lower in soluble (starch) carbohydrates than almost all other whole grains.
—Barley may help you feel full longer, and thereby help you control your weight.
—Barley – even pearl barley – may help reduce visceral fat and waist circumference.
Cooking Tips
Most of us were introduced to barley as those little white things floating in our canned soup. If that’s your only experience with barley, you may be surprised to find that it’s endlessly versatile. You can cook it as a side dish, such as a barley pilaf; you can bake barley bread; you can enjoy barley porridge for breakfast; and you can even use barley flour to bake your favorite cookies.
While true whole grain barley can take 50-60 minutes to cook, it’s easy to cook a big batch then refrigerate it or freeze it until needed. Or cook it in soups, and enjoy comforting aromas simmering on the stove while you do something else.
MUSHROOM BARLEY SOUP—This classic comes from the original Moosewood Cookbook.
1/2 cup raw pearled barley
6 1/2 cups stock or stock and water combo
1 tsp. salt
3 TBS. tamari (Japanese soy sauce)
4 TBS. sherry
3 TBS. butter
1/2 tsp. dried thyme
3 cloves minced garlic
1 large onion, chopped
1 lb. sliced mushrooms
fresh ground pepper
Cook the barley in 1 1/2 cups of the stock until tender right in the soup kettle, about 45-50 minutes. Add the rest of the stock, tamari and sherry. Meanwhile, sauté the onions, garlic and thyme in a separate skillet. When softened add the mushrooms and salt. When all is tender, add to the cooked barley, keeping all of the expressed liquid. Add a generous amount of fresh pepper and simmer over the lowest heat possible. Adjust the seasonings. Serve with a crunchy warm bread and a side salad for the perfect meal! Serves 6-8.
BARLEY RISOTTO WITH ROASTED WINTER VEGETABLES—A wonderful belly-warming recipe from Cooking Light magazine.
2 cups diced parsnips
2 cups chopped cauliflower
1 large red pepper, chopped
1 TBS olive oil, divided
1/2 tsp. pepper
1/4 tsp. salt
1/2 cup chopped onion
4 cups chicken broth, divided
1 1/4 cups pearled barley
3/4 cup parmesan, divided
1/3 cup chopped pecans, toasted
2 TBS. minced parsley
Preheat the oven to 400º. Combine the parsnips, cauliflower, red pepper, 2 tsp. oil, paper and salt in a bowl and spread onto a foil lined, rimmed pan. Spread vegetables out in a single layer and bake 20 minutes, stirring half way through. Heat 1 tsp. oil in a large saucepan on medium high heat. Sauté the onion until browning. Add 3 cups of the broth and the barley and bring to a boil. Cover, reduce the heat to low and simmer 30 minutes. Add the rest of the broth 1/2 cup at a time, bringing to a low boil, stirring constantly until each addition is absorbed before adding the next. Stir in the roasted vegetables and 1/3 cup parmesan. In a serving bowl, sprinkle with the rest of the cheese, pecans and parsley. Serves 6.
MULTIGRAIN PILAF—Yet another recipe from Cooking Light magazine.
1 tsp. olive oil
1 cup chopped onion
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 1/3 cups vegetable broth
1/3 cup buckwheat groats (kasha)
1/3 cup pearled barley
1/3 cup bulgar
1/2 tsp. coarse salt
1 bay leaf
1/4 cup chopped pecans, toasted
1/8 tsp. pepper
Heat the oil in a 2 qt. saucepan over medium high heat. Cook the onion and the garlic until tender. Add the broth, kasha, barley, bulgar, salt and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, cover and reduce the heat. Simmer 15 minutes or until all the liquid is absorbed. Discard the bay leaf and fluff with a fork. Stir in the pecans and pepper. Serves 7.
BEEF BARLEY SOUP WITH A KICK—This delicious and super-easy soup comes to us from www.channel3000.com.
1/2 TBS. canola oil
1 large onion, diced
3/4-1 lb. ground beef
salt and pepper to taste
1 tsp. minced garlic
6 cups chicken or beef broth, divided
1/3 cup pearled barley
1 tsp. chili powder
1 tsp. ground cumin
1 x 14.5 oz. can black beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup medium salsa
Heat oil in a large saucepan. Sauté the onions until tender. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Season with salt and pepper and add the garlic. Cook 1 minute longer. Add 4 cups of the broth, the barley, chili powder, cumin and the beans. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat and cook gently 40 minutes. Add the salsa and bring to a simmer. Add more broth to bring to desired consistence and reseason to taste. Serves 6.
BARLEY PILAF—From Martha Stewart’s Everyday Food.
2 cups pearled barley
4 TBS. butter
1 medium onion, finely chopped
coarse salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup toasted pine nuts
4 TBS. minced fresh parsley
2 TBS. lemon juice
Cook the barley per package instructions in salted water until al dente, about 35 minutes. Drain and rinse in cool water. In a large skillet, melt the butter on medium high heat. Add the onion, season with salt and pepper and cook until tender. Add the barley and stir to combine. Transfer to a serving bowl and stir in the pine nuts, parsley and lemon juice. Reseason to taste. Serves 8.
Sources: Wikipedia & wholegrainscouncil.org
NATURAL NEWS–
The Best Natural Cough Remedies
Source: www.healthline.com/
What’s in a cough?
Generally speaking, coughing is perfectly normal. A cough can help to keep your throat clear from phlegm and other irritants (Hence cough suppressants are sometimes an unhealthy choice.). However, sustained coughing can also be symptomatic of a number of conditions, such as an allergy, a viral infection, or a bacterial infection.
Sometimes a cough isn’t due to anything related to your lungs. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can also cause a cough.
You can treat coughs due to colds, allergies, and sinus infections with a number of over-the-counter medicines. Bacterial infections will require antibiotics. However, for those who prefer to avoid chemicals, here are a few home remedies that can help.
1. Honey
Honey is a time-honored remedy for a sore throat. According to one study, it can also relieve coughs more effectively than over-the-counter medicines that contain dextromethorphan (DM), a cough suppressant.
You can create your own simple remedy at home by mixing up to 2 teaspoons of honey with herbal tea or warm water and lemon. The honey does the soothing, while the lemon juice can help with congestion. You can also simply eat the honey by the spoonful or spread it on bread for a snack.
2. Probiotics
Probiotics are microorganisms that can provide a host of health benefits. While they don’t relieve a cough directly, they do help to balance your gastrointestinal flora. Gastrointestinal flora are the bacteria that live in your intestines.
This balance can support immune system function throughout the body. Evidence also suggests that Lactobacillus, a bacterium in dairy, can reduce the likelihood of a cold or flu and sensitivity to certain allergens, such as pollen.
Fortified milk is a great source of Lactobacillus. You should be cautious, however, as dairy may make phlegm thicker. You can also purchase probiotic supplements at most health food stores and drug stores. Each supplement manufacturer may have different daily recommended intakes. Probiotics are also added to some yogurt types and are present in miso soup and sourdough breads.
3. Bromelain
You don’t usually think of pineapple as a cough remedy, but that’s probably because you’ve never heard of bromelain. There’s evidence to suggest that bromelain — an enzyme found only in the stem and fruit of pineapples — can help suppress coughs as well as loosen the mucus in your throat. To enjoy the most benefits of pineapple and bromelain, eat a slice of pineapple or drink 3.5 ounces of fresh pineapple juice three times a day.
There are also claims that it can help relieve sinusitis and allergy-based sinus issues, which can contribute to coughs and mucus. However, there is insufficient evidence to support this. It’s also sometimes used to treat inflammation and swelling.
Bromelain supplements should not be taken by children or adults who take blood thinners. Also, be careful using bromelain if you’re also on antibiotics such as amoxicillin, as it can increase the absorption of the antibiotic. Always speak to your doctor before taking new or unfamiliar supplements.
4. Peppermint
Peppermint leaves are well known for their healing properties. Menthol in peppermint soothes the throat and acts as a decongestant, helping to break down mucus. You can benefit by drinking peppermint tea or by inhaling peppermint vapors from a steam bath.
To make a steam bath, add 3 or 4 drops of peppermint oil for every 150 milliliters of hot water. Drape a towel over your head, and take deep breaths directly above the water.
5. Marshmallow
Marshmallow is made from Althaea officinalis, a perennial that flowers in summer. The leaves and roots of the herb have been used since ancient times to treat sore throats and suppress coughs. There are no well-controlled studies to support these claims, but the herb is generally considered safe.
The marshmallow herb contains mucilage, which coats the throat and soothes irritation.
Today, you can get marshmallow root as tea or in capsule form. The warm tea can be soothing to a cough that’s accompanied by a sore throat. Marshmallow root is not recommended for children.
6. Thyme
Thyme is used by some for respiratory illnesses. One study suggests that the essence extracted from thyme leaves mixed with ivy can help relieve coughing as well as short-term bronchitis. The leaves contain compounds called flavonoids that relax the throat muscles involved in coughing and lessen inflammation.
You can make thyme tea at home using 2 teaspoons of crushed thyme leaves and 1 cup of boiling water. Cover the cup, steep for 10 minutes, and strain.
7. Salt and water gargle
While the remedy may seem relatively simple, a salt and water gargle can help soothe a scratchy throat that causes you to cough. Mixing 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of salt with 8 ounces of warm water can help to relieve irritation.
Note that children under age 6 aren’t especially good at gargling. It’s best to try other remedies for this age group.
When to call your doctor
Seek emergency medical treatment if your cough is affecting your ability to breathe or if you’re coughing up blood. Respiratory tract infections involve body aches and fever, whereas allergies do not. See your primary care physician if you experience the following symptoms in addition to your cough:
- chills
- dehydration
- fever higher than 101˚F (38˚C)
- malaise, or a general feeling of being unwell
- productive cough that has foul-smelling, thick, green- or yellow-tinted phlegm
- weakness
FEBRUARY’S PLANT OF THE MONTH:
MONSTERA or SPLIT-LEAF PHILODENDRON (Monstera deliciosa)
Split-leaf philodendron, Swiss cheese plant, or windowleaf (Monstera deliciosa) is a tropical plant native to rainforests of Central America from southern Mexico to Panama, and commonly grown as a foliage houseplant. It was introduced into cultivation in England in 1752. It is the only ornamental aroid also grown for its fruit. In spite of its common name, it is not a member of the genus Philodendron (it was formerly classified in that genus) but is in the same family (Araceae). It has glossy, heart-shaped or rounded leathery leaves that develop deep clefts and oblong perforations as they grow older. The leaves may be as much as 18″ wide on foot-long leafstalks. The cultivars ‘Variegata’ and ‘Albovariegata’ have variegated foliage, and the leaves tend to be somewhat smaller than the species (Klein’s currently has ‘Thai Constellation’ in 6″ pots in stock.).
In nature this plant is actually an evergreen liana, a trailing or climbing epiphytic vine, which grows high into the rainforest canopy. It can grow 70 feet or more and rarely branches. The heavy, cylindrical, 2½ -3″ stems are rough with leaf scars.
It produces numerous, long, tentacle-like aerial roots as it grows upward which attach to nearby branches and tree trunks. The tough roots grow downward from the thick stem and will root if they touch the ground.
The young plants appear very different. Seedlings grow toward the darkest area until they encounter a tree, then they grow upwards. The leaves are small and without lobes or holes, and they grow closely overlapping each other up the tree trunk in a stage called “shingle plants.” As they grow older they develop the characteristic foliage of the mature plant. The fenestrations (holes in the leaves) theoretically are a way of allowing high winds to pass through the large leaves without tearing them.
The flowers, which are rarely if ever seen on houseplants, are a 8-12″ long, creamy-white, Jack-in-the-pulpit type. The fleshy upright spike (spadix) with tiny flowers is surrounded by the boat-shaped spathe. It takes a little over a year for the fruit to mature, swelling into a 9″ cone-like structure that looks sort of like a green cob of corn with hexagonal kernels. The edible fruits, called cerimans or monsteras, supposedly taste like a combination of banana, pineapple and mango and are high in potassium and Vitamin C. They are used to flavor drinks and ice cream, or are eaten fresh. The fruit ripens from the bottom up. Once the thick, hard rind of hexagonal plates or “scales” covering the individual segments begin to dry out and fall away, the off-white, custard-like pulp underneath is cut away from the inedible core to eat. There usually are no seeds, but occasionally pale-green, hard seeds the size of large peas, may occur in some of the segments.
The plant contains oxalic acid, so all parts are poisonous except the ripe fruits. Young fruit, that still has the covering firmly attached, contains enough glass-like calcium oxalate crystals to cause immediate and painful irritation to the throat.
As a houseplant, split-leaf philodendron does best in bright light in summer and direct sun in winter. It can be grown under florescent light, but will not develop the leaf perforations when light is inadequate. It prefers warm room temperature and medium to high humidity, but is fairly tolerant of a wide range of conditions once acclimated. Plants do not grow below 50ºF, however, and frost will kill them.
Grow split-leaf philodendron in a rich soil mix, with ample root room to promote larger leaf growth. They can be very vigorous growers and need support to keep the stems from breaking. Provide a tree bark or strong, moss-covered support sunk into the pot for the aerial roots to attach to. Sphagnum moss wrapped around a wooden slat, secured with monofilament fishing line or nylon thread, will work well. Water thoroughly and allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings, being sure to also water the moss-covered support so the aerial roots can obtain water and nutrients. The leaves will “sweat” if the growing medium is too moist. If this happens, reduce watering to prevent root rot.
Plants kept on the dry side will have slower growth. Water less in winter. Fertilize regularly from spring until fall. The leaf edges will turn brown if humidity is too low. Wipe the dust from the leaves periodically. This plant has few pests indoors, but may be infested by aphids, mealybugs, scale insects or spider mites.
Container-grown plants need frequent repotting to accommodate the root system. They can be moved outside for the summer, but need to be acclimated to higher light levels gradually or will sunburn.
Propagate from stem cuttings from mature plants or by air layering or simple layering any time of the year. Cut the tip of the stem just below an aerial root and pot the cutting. For more plants, cut the vine into 1-foot sections, press the sections half way into the surface of a bed of rooting medium (such as a mixture of leafmold and sand), and then transplant when roots have developed. Plants can be grown from seed, but seedlings require warm temperatures and are slow to develop.
By Susan Mahr, University of Wisconsin-Madison from the Master Gardener website @ wimastergardener.org
In addition to the straight species, Klein’s currently has Swiss Cheese Plants (Monstera andansonii) in 4″ and 6″ pots and hanging baskets and Monstera ‘Peru’ (Monstera karstenianum) in 6″ pots.
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.
36th Annual Orchid Quest 2025 @ Monona Terrace
Saturday, February 1, 10:00-5:00
Sunday, February 2, 10:00-3:00
ORCHID QUEST has something for everyone! It is the Upper Midwest’s largest orchid show and sale, featuring thousands of exotic orchids on display and for sale to the public. The event showcases individual plants and group exhibits designed by orchid clubs from Wisconsin and neighboring states that are judged at the national level by the American Orchid Society. Klein’s Floral & Greenhouses is a sponsor of this event.
Commercial vendors include specialty orchid nurseries from across the USA and overseas, artists, and businesses selling a variety of orchid growing supplies for the greenhouse and home grower. Raffles and a silent auction take place both days and a free plant check is available. Educational lectures and demonstrations are included with admission and feature professional orchid growers sharing their experience and knowledge. Orchid Ambassadors are on site both days to answer all your orchid related questions and enhance your show experience; there is even a children’s area with fun games and prizes for the kids!
Admission is $10 for adults, $7 for students. Children under 5 are free. Parking is $5 at Monona Terrace, but there is street parking and city ramp parking available nearby.
Monona Terrace Community & Convention Center
1 John Nolen Dr.
Madison, WI 53703
Orchid Escape @ Olbrich Gardens
February 1-March 2, 10:00-4:00 daily
Orchid Escape is an annual exhibit in the tropical Bolz Conservatory, featuring hundreds of orchids including specimen from Olbrich’s collection. The 2025 exhibit theme reveals the secrets of the canopy!
Admission:
$10 – General Admission
$6 – 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.
Nature Hike @ the Arboretum
Sunday, February 2, 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 2, 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 7, 12:00-7:00
Saturday, February 8, 9:00-6:00
Sunday, February 9, 10:00-4:00
CULTIVATE A LOVE OF GARDENING AND SUSTAINABLE LIVING
Connect with seasoned gardeners and environmental enthusiasts at this vibrant three-day celebration of gardening, landscaping, local food culture and ecological responsibility! Learn from 150 educational presentations, browse through the exhibitor mall, chat with UW-Madison Extension Horticulture experts, enter a floral design competition, explore the PBS KIDS Backyard family area and more. Explore ideas for reducing waste, conserving resources and creating eco-friendly spaces at home and in your community. All proceeds support PBS Wisconsin.
The Garden & Green Living Expo is thrilled to once again welcome guests to a glimpse of spring in the middle of winter. PBS Wisconsin is proud to host this educational community event and fundraiser. From the buzz of the exhibitor mall to the bounty of knowledge shared by our presenters, Garden & Green Living Expo offers many opportunities for you to delve into the latest trends in gardening, landscaping, local foods and ecological sustainability.
Explore a wide variety of educational opportunities to pique your curiosity, all facilitated by leading educators, presenters, and community members.
This year includes presentations from nationally known plant influencer Hilton Carter, gardening expert Melinda Myers, Around the Farm Table host Inga Witscher, a variety of UW-Extension specialists and more!
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
Nature Hike @ the Arboretum
Sunday, February 9, 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
Prospects and Perils for Pollinator Conservation in Cities @ the Arboretum
Thursday, February 13, 10:00 – 11:30
A Winter Enrichment Lecture
Patrick Bohlen, Director, UW–Madison Arboretum. Pollinators are in decline globally due to habitat loss. Urbanization is one of the fastest growing lands uses, which presents both opportunities and threats for pollinator conservation. Bohlen will provide a general overview of urban pollinator ecology conservation and present research on ways to improve pollinator habitat in urban landscapes. Fee: $10. Register by February 9.
University of WI Arboretum
1207 Seminole Hwy.
Madison, WI 53711
The Canopy Sessions at Olbrich Gardens
Fridays, February 14, March 7 & April 11, 6:00-8:00 p.m.
Kick off your weekend with a live concert in one of Madison’s most unique spots: the Bolz Conservatory! Immerse yourself in tropical surroundings, soak up the warmth, and enjoy performances by some of the region’s finest musicians.
$12 – General Admission
$10 – Olbrich Member
$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 2025 Schedule:
February 14:
Rebulú—Celebrate Valentine’s Day in the tropics! Rebulú is made up of 9 musicians and it is a band in the mold of a classic Cuban conjunto with a twist. It’s sound is a deft, tight, soulful blend of Cuban, Puerto Rican, Dominican and African diaspora grooves topped with powerful lead and harmony vocals. Rebulú’s repertoire includes classics of the genre as well as originals that bring in elements of pop and rock.
March 7:
The Spine Stealers—The Spine Stealers are a two-gal duo making “spooky folk” influenced by the north-wood Wisconsin pines, 24/7 truck stop diners, heartbreak and dark lakes. Kate and Emma started learning guitar together around bonfires in their shared hometown during the height of the pandemic, soon writing songs inspired by lonesome winters, the heartaches of nostalgia and broken ideas of love.
April 11:
The Racing Pulses—The Racing Pulses, an alternative rock band from Madison, have been captivating audiences with their energetic performances and intelligent music since 2012. Blending sharp lyrics with dynamic instrumentation, their evolving sound continues to keep audiences buzzing and coming back for more.
Olbrich Botanical Gardens
3330 Atwood Ave., Madison
608/246-4550 or www.olbrich.org for details.
Nature Hike @ the Arboretum
Sunday, February 16, 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 Program: Winter Birds @ the Arboretum
Sunday, February 16, 1:30 pm – 3:30 pm
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
Mapping Teejop: Indigenous Histories of Madison @ the Arboretum
Thursday, February 20, 10:00 – 11:30
A Winter Enrichment Lecture
Kasey Keeler, Assistant Professor, UW–Madison Department of American Indian and Indigenous Studies. Using digital mapping technology, Mapping Teejop works to make Ho-Chunk and Indigenous past and presence in Madison accessible to all learners. Keeler will highlight the ongoing work of Mapping Teejop as a tool for place-based-learning, one that shares the history of this land with a broad audience to facilitate deeper knowledge and relationship with place. Fee: $10. Register by February 16.
University of WI Arboretum
1207 Seminole Hwy.
Madison, WI 53711
Scenic Stroll @ the Arboretum
Sunday, February 23, 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm
This gently paced stroll through the gardens is well-suited for a multi-generational outing. Learn about plants, animals, and fungi; phenology; and ecology. Wear sturdy closed-toe shoes and come prepared for weather and insects. Walks take place rain or shine, except in unsafe weather. Routes are wheelchair accessible when weather allows. 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
All that Buzz: Looking Back at the 2024 Periodical Cicada Emergence @ the Arboretum
Thursday, February 27, 10:00 – 11:30
A Winter Enrichment Lecture
PJ Liesch, Entomologist, UW–Madison Extension and Department of Entomology. In the spring of 2024, Wisconsin saw the emergence of Brood XIII periodical cicadas. These insects have a fascinating natural history and only emerge once every seventeen years. In this talk, we’ll take a closer look at the biology of these amazing insects and share findings of a recent community science project. Fee: $10. Register by February 23.
University of WI Arboretum
1207 Seminole Hwy.
Madison, WI 53711
Madison Reads Leopold: Voices of a Land Ethic @ the Arboretum
Saturday, March 1, 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Join us for a community reading of selections from “A Sand County Almanac” by Aldo Leopold and writings by other environmental thinkers, including Robin Wall Kimmerer, Joy Harjo, and Camille T. Dungy. Listeners may come and go throughout the event. 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
Nature Hike: Walking in Leopold’s Footsteps @ the Arboretum
Sunday, March 2, 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm
Visit key sites and learn about Aldo Leopold’s early phenological research and experiments to restore Wisconsin ecosystems during his time as the Arboretum’s first research director. 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
Dane County Late Winter Farmer’s Market
Saturdays, January 4 thru April 5, 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 4th 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
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
Yelp, Google Reviews or Facebook Reviews
Follow Klein’s on Facebook where we post updates and photos on a regular basis.
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 $9.95 for Madison, Maple Bluff, Monona and Shorewood Hills; $10.95 for Cottage Grove, DeForest, Fitchburg, McFarland, Sun Prairie, Waunakee and Windsor; and $11.95 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
http://www.plantpath.wisc.edu/index.php
Insect Diagnostic Lab
240 Russell Labs
1630 Linden Dr.
Madison, WI 53706
http://www.entomology.wisc.edu/
U.W. Soil and Plant Analysis Lab
8452 Mineral Point Rd.
Verona, WI 53593
608/262-4364
American Horticultural Society
Garden Catalogs (an extensive list with links)
also http://www.mailordergardening.com/
Invasive Species
http://www.invasiveplants.net/
Community Groundworks
3601 Memorial Dr., Ste. 4
Madison, WI 53704
608/240-0409
http://www.communitygroundworks.org
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
http://www.allencentennialgardens.org/
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
http://www.cals.wisc.edu/westmad/
PLANTS POISONOUS TO CHILDREN:
Children may find the bright colors and different textures of plants irresistible, but some plants can be poisonous if touched or eaten. If you’re in doubt about whether or not a plant is poisonous, don’t keep it in your home. The risk is not worth it. The following list is not comprehensive, so be sure to seek out safety information on the plants in your home to be safe.
•Bird of paradise
•Bull nettle
•Castor bean
•Chinaberry tree
•Crocus
•Daffodil
•Deadly nightshade
•Dieffenbachia (dumb cane)
•Foxglove
•Glory lily
•Hemlock
•Holly berry
•Indian tobacco
•Iris
•Jimsonweed
•Lantana
•Larkspur
•Lily of the valley
•Marijuana
•Mescal bean
•Mexicantes
•Mistletoe
•Morning glory
•Mountain laurel
•Night-blooming jasmine
•Nutmeg
•Oleander
•Philodendron
•Poison ivy
•Poison sumac
•Pokeweed
•Poppy
•Potato
•Privet
•Rhododendron
•Rhubarb
•Water hemlock
•Wisteria
PLANTS POISONOUS TO PETS:
Below is a list of some of the common plants which may produce a toxic reaction in animals. This list is intended only as a guide to plants which are generally identified as having the capability for producing a toxic reaction. Source: The National Humane Society website @ http://www.humanesociety.org/
•Aconite
•Apple
•Arrowgrasses
•Autumn Crocus
•Azaleas
•Baneberry
•Bird-of-Paradise
•Black locust
•Bloodroot
•Box
•Buckeye
•Buttercup
•Caladium
•Carolina jessamine
•Castor bean
•Chinaberry tree
•Chockcherries
•Christmas berry
•Christmas Rose
•Common privet
•Corn cockle
•Cowbane
•Cow cockle
•Cowsliprb
•Daffodil
•Daphne
•Day lily
•Delphinium (Larkspur)
•Dumbcane
•Dutchman’s breeches
•Easter lily
•Elderberry
•Elephant’s ear
•English Ivy
•European Bittersweet
•Field peppergrass
•Foxglove
•Holly
•Horsechestnut
•Horse nettle
•Hyacinth
•Iris
•Jack-in-the-pulpit
•Jerusalem Cherry
•Jimsonweed
•Lantana
•Larkspur
•Laurels
•Lily of the valley
•Lupines
•Mayapple
•Milk vetch
•Mistletoe
•Monkshood
•Morning glory
•Mustards
•Narcissus
•Nicotiana
•Nightshade
•Oaks
•Oleander
•Philodendrons
•Pokeweed
•Poinsettia
•Poison hemlock
•Potato
•Rhododendron
•Rhubarb
•Rosary pea
•Sago palm
•Skunk cabbage
•Smartweeds
•Snow-on-the-mountain
•Sorghum
•Star of Bethlehem
•Wild black cherry
•Wild radish
•Wisteria
•Yellow jessamine
•Yew