‘THE SAGE’-Klein’s Online Newsletter—APRIL 2022
Klein’s Floral & Greenhouses
608/244-5661 or info@kleinsfloral.com
THIS MONTH’S HIGHLIGHTS:
Our 2022 Spring Plant List Goes On-line About April 15
Extended Spring Hours Begin Saturday, April 30
Administrative Professionals Week is April 24-30
Our ‘Mad Gardener‘ and ‘Houseplant Help‘ Are Ready for Your Questions
Introducing Klein’s Planters by Design Service
About Easter Lilies
Pruning Woody Plants
Klein’s Tips for Starting Seeds Indoors
Now Available: Fresh Windowsill Herbs in 5″ Pots
Klein’s Favorite Seed, Bulb & Plant Sources
You Asked about Purchasing a Lemon Tree
Plant of the Month: Venus Flytrap
Klein’s Favorite Recipes Using Walnuts
Product Spotlight: Garden Seeds from Hudson Valley Seed Co.
Notes from Rick’s Garden Journal—From March 2022
—Spring Bulbs–the Minor Players
—Killdeer Signify the Arrival of Spring
—Seedlings Can Benefit from a Daily Brushing
April in the Garden: A Planner
Gardening Events Around Town
Join Us on Twitter
Follow Us on Facebook
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.
OUR 2022 SPRING PLANT LIST can be viewed on-line beginning about April 15 by clicking on Spring Plants or at the top of our website home page under the the “Greenhouses” dropbox. This comprehensive listing contains every plant that Klein’s will be offering at some time during the 2022 season and is extremely helpful for both the home gardener and landscaper alike. The list contains fun facts, cultural information and pot or pack size for each item and comes in very handy in planning your garden this spring.
***Please note the disclaimers and added notes at the beginning of each section***
FOR NEIGHBORHOOD EVENTS OR GARDEN TOURS that you would like posted on our web site or in our monthly newsletters, please contact Rick at (608) 244-5661 or rick@kleinsfloral.com. Please include all details, i.e. dates, locations, prices, brief description, etc. Events must be garden related and must take place in the Madison area.
NOW AVAILABLE: FRESH WINDOWSILL HERBS IN 5″ POTS
Choose from rosemary, bay laurel, 5 different kinds of lavender, 3 types of oregano, 4 types of sage, 4 types of thyme, 6 types of mint plus parsley, curry plant and sweet marjoram. Our herbs are grown quite cool so are, therefore, compact, bushy and pest-free.
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 Houseplant Help 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.
APRIL STORE HOURS:
Monday thru Friday : 8:00-6:00
Saturday: 9:00-5:00
Sunday: 10:00-4:00
Extended Spring Hours Begin Saturday, April 30.
Monday thru Friday : 9:00-7:00
Tuesdays: 7:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m.
Saturday: 9:00-6:00
Sunday: 9:00-5:00
CALENDAR OF EVENTS:
April 1–April Fool’s Day
April 2–Ramadan Begins
April 5–Spring Elections
April 10–Palm Sunday
April 15–Good Friday
April 15–Passover Begins
April 16–Full Moon
April 16–First Outdoor Farmers’ Market on the Square, 6:15-1:45. Madison’s Official Beginning of Spring! Visit dcfm.org/fresh/dcfm-will-open-
April 17–Easter Sunday
April 18–Tax Day
April 24–Beginning of Administrative Professionals Week. In appreciation to those people who make your life so much easier, have one of Klein’s talented designers create for you that perfect ‘Thank You.’ Nothing displays your appreciation better than a lovely bouquet of spring flowers or a cheerful blooming plant. Order early.
April 27–Administrative Professionals Day
April 22–Earth Day
April 24–Orthodox Easter
April 29–Arbor Day
April 30–First Day of Klein’s Extended Spring Hours. The days are longer and there’s lots to do in the garden. We make shopping easier to fit into your hectic schedule by offering extended retail hours during May. Evenings are a great time to shop at Klein’s. The greenhouses are cooler and the lines are shorter. It makes for a more relaxed shopping experience and our staff is more available to answer all your gardening questions. See April Store Hours above for more details.
April 30 and May 1—Klein’s Spring Preview Weekend. Visit with supplier reps and see what’s new for the 2022 gardening season. Visit our homepage and Facebook later in the month for details.
May 8–Mother’s Day. Order early and shop early!!! Mother’s Day is second only to Valentine’s Day for deliveries and the Saturday before Mother’s Day is traditionally our busiest day of the entire year. Extra drivers will be on the road Saturday, May 8 for prompt and efficient service. Click on Delivery Information at the top of our home page for more details about Klein’s delivery. Because this is our busiest day of the year in the greenhouse, will not be delivering on Mother’s Day, Sunday, May 8.
May 10–This is Madison’s average last frost date, but keep your eye on the weather before planting. Madison has a notorious reputation for late May frosts. Many local old-time gardeners refuse to plant, especially their tomatoes, peppers, morning glories, etc. until Memorial Day weekend when the soil has warmed properly. Novice gardeners have a tendency to plant too early!
‘THE FLOWER SHOPPE’:
About Easter Lilies
Either you love them or you hate them! For some, Easter lilies evoke emotions of renewal and springtime. For others, the intense fragrance is far too strong, the bright yellow, stain inducing pollen annoying and the pure white flowers symbolize death. Regardless of your own personal take on the Easter lily, this age old indoor bloomer is both easy to care for and lovely in the garden for years to come.
Lilium longiflorum (Easter lilies) are native to southern Japan and Taiwan, but have a long association with the Easter season. The pure white blossoms have come to symbolize purity, innocence, life and hope. The plant itself seems to appear from nowhere, starting out as a dormant bulb in the sterile earth–in time growing into a stately and majestic plant, this whole cycle symbolizing the resurrection of Christ. Lilies appear frequently in both Bible passages and in medieval religious art.
In choosing the perfect plant from Klein’s, look for one with just one or two open buds and more flower buds forming at the top of the stem. The best plants usually average between 8 and 14 buds. The retail price is usually based on the number of stems per pot and the number of flower buds on each stem. Look for plants that are sturdy, deep green in color, glossy and with leaves nearly all the way down the stem to the soil. You’ll notice that we try to remove the yellow anthers from the open blossoms where the infamous pollen forms. This not only keeps the petals a pure white, but also lengthens the life of the plant.
Upon taking your lily home, place it in a bright location, but out of direct sun and as with all forced bulbs, the cooler the better. Once in a warm home, you’ll notice that the flower buds will open quite quickly. The cooler the temperatures, the longer the plants will bloom. Keep the soil moist, but never soggy. Fertilizing is not necessary. Keep removing the yellow anthers as the blossoms open, but before the pollen sheds. Lily pollen is notorious for leaving stains on fabrics. Though easy to wash out, the pollen does not brush off fabrics without leaving a stubborn yellow smudge.
As the blossoms wilt and fade, simply cut them from the plant with a scissors. From now until late spring, simply treat your flowerless lily as an indoor house plant, watering thoroughly when dry to the touch. If you have a sunny garden spot with rich, well-drained soil, you can plant your lily outdoors at the same depth, once the soil has warmed. Under normal circumstances your lily will not bloom again this season, having used up most of its energy at Easter time. The foliage will usually die back to the ground at this point, reemerging later in summer in order to reenergize the bulb for next year. Because Wisconsin is borderline hardy for Easter lilies, it’s best to top with a mulch for winter, though we’ve had great success in unmulched Madison Zone 5 gardens. New growth will appear in late spring the following year so it’s best to mark the spot so you don’t accidentally break off the crisp and tender shoots.
Easter lilies will bloom naturally during July in Wisconsin. The original plant you purchased at the greenhouse was artificially forced to bloom during the Easter season by us prechilling the bulbs. Though not incredibly long-lived, you will get many seasons from your Easter lily purchase once placed in the garden. By planting each year’s Easter lily into your garden beds, you can over time create a truly awesome and super-fragrant display.
Please note that Easter lilies (and all lilies) are extremely toxic to pets and especially cats.
YOU ASKED. . .
I have a very warm south facing wall of windows at my house in Middleton and was thinking about getting a dwarf Meyer lemon tree. Do you ever have these in stock? Rachel
Hi Rachel,
We receive our citrus shipment usually around May 10-15 and Meyer lemons are among them. They are the most popular of indoor citrus and produce reliably.
Citrus really do best here in the north if they can spend their summers outdoors in a full sun location. Left indoors year round, they tend to get spindly and don’t produce well (if at all). After bringing them indoors in early October (They are actually quite cold tolerant.), they usually lose many of their leaves as they acclimate to a lower light environment and shorter days. Don’t panic…that’s normal. Kept coolish and near a bright south or west window, citrus sets flower bud and fruit in mid-winter for harvest in late summer and through the the following winter. During subsequent winters they often have fruit and flowers simultaneously.
Citrus requires a special fertilizer. They are notorious for turning chlorotic when these needs aren’t met. We sell Jack’s Citrus Fertilizer @ Klein’s. Use it full strength during the late spring through mid-fall and then only @ half rate during the winter months.
I hope this was of some help and we hope to see you in May. Give a call in advance. Shipments can be quite erratic lately with trucking issues.
Thanks for your question,
DID YOU KNOW. . .
. . . that Klein’s offers custom design and potting services for your outdoor summer containers?
As we head into the long-awaited spring season our gardening plans can now be fully put into action. At Klein’s we grow a diverse range of annuals suitable for any growing environment, shade, part shade and full sun. In addition to growing our plants in your established garden beds, container gardening is a great way to liven up a patio, balcony or a corner of your yard that needs a little color. At Klein’s we offer many options to meet your container gardening needs. Available throughout the greenhouse and in perennial yard outside we feature pots of many shapes, sizes, and materials. Throughout the spring and summer, we will also have containers already assembled ready for purchase filled with annuals suitable for all growing conditions.
At Klein’s we offer custom container design for your existing containers. Please bring in your containers fully emptied of last year’s debris. If you would like us to dispose of the old soil and plant matter, there will be a $10.00 charge. Please check in with a staff member upon your arrival at the store and we will ask some questions to clarify what you are looking for in a custom container, budget range, light requirements, favorite plants and colors. We will contact you when your container has been completed and ready for pick up. Delivery is also available at an additional charge.
Fees for our potting services are a combination of the total retail costs of the plants to be planted and a potting fee that includes soil and labor. Our potting fees are based on the container’s top diameter. For elongated containers that use more soil, there may be added costs. Payment can be made when placing the order or at pick-up. If we need to make adjustments to the order, we will contact you in advance. In special cases, we may require a downpayment.
We look forward to hearing you! Contact Jenny at 608-244-5661 or customplanters@kleinsfloral.
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.
Garden Seeds from Hudson Valley Seed Company
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 began arriving in January; including seeds from Botanical Interests, Seed Savers Exchange, Olds Garden Seeds and Livingston Seeds and now Hudson Valley Seeds.
About Hudson Valley Seed Company:
Welcome to the Hudson Valley Seed Company: your source for heirloom and open-pollinated garden seeds and beautiful garden-themed contemporary art. We are a values-driven seed company that practices and celebrates responsible seed production and stewardship. We have our own certified organic farm in upstate New York where we produce much of what we sell. On our website @ hudsonvalleyseed.com, you’ll find photos and artwork that stoke your horticultural imagination—along with tips to make your garden dreams a reality.
Our Mission
Here at the Hudson Valley Seed Company, we are both farmers and storytellers. We are committed to growing organically, sourcing locally and sustainably, and preserving crop diversity by selecting unique, rare, and hard-to-find varieties. Every seed in our catalog is open pollinated, many are heirloom and organic, and they are never GMO. We were one of the first companies to sign the Open Source Seed Initiative (OSSI), and we will remain committed to our values of sustainability to the last. We believe that a seed is more than meets the eye: it is a time capsule telling tales of the plants, crops, and people that came before us, and we work with a range of artists as diverse as our seeds to pass those stories down to present and future gardeners.
Our Art Packs
Our Art Packs unite practical aspirations in the garden with the universal human desire for beauty, meaning, and joy. Each year, we release a call for art seeking artists to interpret the varieties in our collection, and hundreds of artists apply from across the United States. But there’s a lot more to an Art Pack than the beautiful exterior. Open it up, and a whole seedy world unfolds…
We hope these seedy stories will take you on a beautiful, fragrant, delicious tour of gardens past—and inspire you to let their legacies loose in your yard!
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Klein’s Tips on Starting Seeds Indoors for Your Summer Garden:
Starting your own plants from seed can be both rewarding and frustrating for the beginning gardener. From experience, it’s best to start out slow. This eliminates some of the frustration. Experience will gain you knowledge and confidence.
Before starting your seeds, read the packet and get a little basic information. Some seeds are best sown directly in the garden come spring and not started indoors. It’s best to do a little research by going online or purchasing a good gardening book. The packets themselves will usually tell you whether to direct sow in the garden or how many weeks before our last frost date to sow indoors. Our last frost date is about May 10 here in Madison. Using a calendar, count back from May 10 and this will be your sow date.
Do not sow all your seeds at one time! You’ll be sowing seeds weekly from February through late April depending on the plants you’re wanting to start and following the above sow date guidelines. As examples, pansies are started in February, peppers in early March, tomatoes in late March and and morning glories in late April. Sown too early, one ends up with leggy, weak plants.
One can start seeds on any sunny windowsill and in almost any container. Warmth and moisture are critical in getting most seeds to germinate. But a few pieces of basic and inexpensive equipment purchased at your garden center and/or hardware store will help you get started and make your seed starting experience more successful. Here is a shopping list:
- A heating mat–makes seeds germinate quickly and uniformly
- A few 10×20″ trays without holes
- A few clear humidity domes
- A sterile seed starting mix
- A 2′-4′ shop lamp w/ multi-strips of LED bulbs (you don’t need “gro-lights”)
- or a seed growing rack if you’d like to make an investment (Lights are included.)
- A few 10×20″ trays with holes or web trays
- A few sheets of empty cell packs, e.g. 4-packs or 6-packs
- A water mister
- A timer
- A soilless potting mix for later transplanting
All of the above items, except the timers and shop lights, are available at Klein’s.
Again, following package instructions, sow the seeds, as many as you want, in a very shallow, open container, filled with moistened seed starting mix. This container can be anything from very low or cut off dairy containers to disposable food storage containers. Per package instructions, cover or don’t cover the seed. Some seeds require light for germination. Next place your seeded containers in a tray without holes, mist them till well watered and cover with a humidity dome. Place your covered tray on the warmed heating mat under the shop light. Set your timer so the shop light is on for 13 hours (off for 11 hours).
In a few days, as your seeds begin to sprout, remove them from under the humidity dome and place in a well-lit, warm location. Keep your seeds and seedlings moist. Different seeds sprout at different rates so this can take from a few days to a few weeks. Once all your seeds have germinated, unplug your heating mat. You can now move all of your seedlings to under the shop light still set at 13 hours.
Once your seedlings have 2 sets of “real” leaves it’s time to “prick them out” (transplant them). Do this by placing a sheet of empty cell packs in a tray with holes. The holes now become necessary for proper drainage. Fill the cells with soilless potting mix and moisten well with the mister. Using a pen or pencil “dibble” a hole into each of the cells. This is where you’ll now place your seedling. Remove the seed starting mix and seedlings as a clump from their starting containers. Gently break apart this root ball, separating your seedlings. The pen or pencil will come in handy as an added tool to help separate the seedlings. Carefully place one seedling in each of the holes you put in the prepped cells. Gently firm in with your finger tips. Mist well to water thoroughly and place in a warm, well lit area. Using your shop light again makes this easy. The seedlings may seem weak and somewhat abused, but they’re very resilient and will pop back quickly. When watering, fertilize your new plants with a very dilute solution, rather than at full rate.
Then in late April or early May, begin hardening off your young starts outdoors (a whole other topic). By usually May 15-20 your flowers and vegetables (and the weather) should be ready to plant into your garden or containers and you can say that you did it yourself–beginning to end.
NOTES FROM MY GARDEN JOURNAL–Tips and Observations from My Own Garden by Rick Halbach
ENTRY: MARCH 11, 2022 (Spring Bulbs–the Minor Players)
As the years have passed the overall appearance of the spring bulbs in the yard–the minor players–have surpassed my wildest expectations. What started out 30 years ago as handfuls of pea-sized bulbs planted in the fall are now sweeps of the most beautiful shades of blue, pink and white, with a splash of yellow here and there. It’s this early burst from the minor players that sets the stage for things to come; when the major players–the daffodils, tulips and alliums (among others) take the stage. The small species bulbs have performed as promised, by naturalizing well throughout the gardens and even into the lawn. Those few hours spent planting them in the late 80’s has been well worth the wait.
Who are these minor players you ask? Why, they’re the scillas, the pushkinias, the chionodoxas, the aconites, the snowdrops and the species crocus that fill the yard. These are the first of the bulbs to bloom after the snow melts and the first to go dormant as the summer heats up. They all self-sow with abandon and have created a very natural looking environment. I no longer know where I planted the original handfuls of bulbs.
Like all of the spring bloomers, bulbs become available in the late summer and early fall. Like all bulbs planted in the fall, it’s best to wait until October to plant them; once the soil has cooled sufficiently after the summer heat. If purchased early, they store well in the refrigerator until ready to plant.
Unlike the bigger tulip and daffodil bulbs, planting the minor players is a breeze. I simply scatter the small bulbs over the soil surface to give a random and natural, rather than a planned, effect. Then I take a narrow trowel, jab it a few inches into the soil and pull back to create a slit into which I drop the bulb. I try to make sure the growing tip is pointing upward, but bulbs (especially these small ones) have a tendency to right themselves when planted incorrectly. Then with the heal of my hand, I push the slit closed and move on. Hundreds of bulbs can be planted in very short order. The hundreds become thousands with a little patience and as the years pass. It’s important to let the plants self sow and not remove yellowing foliage in the springtime. They’ll disappear before you know it in summer heat.
Here are some of my very favorites:
Glory-of-the-Snow (Chionodoxa)–Naturalizes easily by self-sowing for sweeps of blue or pink. Blooms very early–just after the crocus. Deer & rodent proof. Zone 3 perennial.
Siberian Squill (Scilla)–One of the first of the spring-flowering bulbs to brighten the landscape in early spring. Flowers are the bluest of blue. Heaven for the early pollinators to the garden. It is particularly attractive when allowed to naturalize under deciduous trees and shrubs.
Snowdrops (Galanthus)–Among the first flowers in the spring to push through the snow. Naturalizes well in the garden. Native to Eastern Europe and Turkey. Deer & rodent proof. Forces easily. Zone 3 perennial.
Species Crocus–These include Crocus sieberi, Crocus chrysanthus and Crocus tommasinianus. They spread nicely through the lawn and finish blooming long before the first mowing. Their grass-like foliage blends in perfectly with the lawn once the grass comes in during the upcoming weeks. These are a favorite of early appearing honeybees.
Striped Squill (Pushkinia)–An underutilized naturalizer that works well with scilla and chionodoxa for a glorious sweep of color in the early spring garden. These natives of Turkey are at home in rocky meadows.
Winter Aconite–These bright yellow jewels are stunning against the snow in late winter. The member of the buttercup family calls home the woodlands of Europe and Asia. Once established, they self-sow easily. Loves our alkaline soil. Zone 3 perennial.
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ENTRY: MARCH 21, 2022 (Killdeer Signify the Arrival of Spring)
For me, the arrival of certain migratory birds indicates that spring must be on its way. Many look at the robin as the herald of spring. However, seeing that many robins stay the winter in the Madison area, it’s not unusual to see them in flocks feeding on dried berries and crabapples during even the harshest winter weather. It’s the ‘true’ migrants of which I speak. Along with sounds of red-winged black-birds and sandhill cranes, the killdeer is, for me, one of those true indicators that spring is imminent.
Though the killdeer is primarily not an urban bird, Klein’s close proximity to the airport and the fields along Hwy. 51 just north of us offers perfect killdeer habitat—wide open space and a lack of tall foliage. It’s usually while at work that I hear the first killdeer of the season; usually in early to mid-March. They are early to arrive among migratory birds.
Widespread, common, and conspicuous, the killdeer calls its name as it flies over farmland and other open country. Like other members of the plover family, this species is often found at the water’s edge, but it also lives in pastures and fields far from water. At times, it nests on gravel roofs or on lawns. Many a person has been fooled by the bird’s “broken-wing” act, in which it flutters along the ground in a show of injury, luring intruders away from its nest.
In the breeding season, the male flies high over a nesting territory in floating, wavering flight, with slow, deep wingbeats, giving kill-dee call repeatedly. On the ground, courtship displays include ritualized nest-scrape making. The nest site is on ground in open area with good visibility, as on bare soil, short-grass field, gravel road; sometimes on gravel roof. The nest is shallow scrape in soil or gravel, either unlined or lined with pebbles, grass, twigs, bits of debris.
Feeding Behavior
Typically they run a few steps and then pause, then run again, pecking at the ground whenever they spot something edible. May follow farmers plowing fields, to feed on grubs turned up by the plow.
Diet
Mostly insects. Feeds on a wide variety of insects, including beetles, caterpillars, grasshoppers, fly larvae, many others; also eats spiders, earthworms, centipedes, crayfish, snails. Eats small amounts of seeds as well.
Additional information comes from the National Audubon Society @ www.audubon.org
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ENTRY: MARCH 27, 2022 (Seedlings Can Benefit from a Daily Brushing)
Seedlings started indoors tend to be weaker than those that sprout outside in the garden. Indoor seedlings tend to be taller and more tender, even if grown in strong light. The difference is the absence of wind—as wind shakes outdoor seedlings, their stems become stronger and their growth remains stocky.
Indoors, you can re-create the effect of the blowing wind by “brushing” your seedlings. Brush a folded piece of paper across the tops of small seedlings, quickly but gently bending them to horizontal and letting them pop up again. Do this twice a day for about a minute. As seedlings get larger, you can use your hand instead of the paper. A fan blowing over your seedlings will have much the same effect, but will dry out your seedlings much quicker. That said, using fans can also aid in protecting your young seedlings from fungus gnat infestations.
In studies, seedlings that were brushed had smaller, darker leaves that grew closer together than those of seedlings that were not brushed. There is also evidence that seedlings that were brushed acclimate to the outdoors quicker and suffer less transplant shock.
Source: Horticulture Magazine @ www.hortmag.com
KLEIN’S RECIPES OF THE MONTH—These are a selection of relatively simple recipes chosen by our staff. New recipes appear monthly. Enjoy!!
English walnuts are a common dessert nut and are widely used in confectionery (biscuits, cakes, sweets, chocolates, pastries and breads) and in ice cream. These are also the main uses for our native black walnuts; whose pricey meats can oftentimes be found at the farmers’ market on the Capitol square in late fall. Walnut oil is of exceptional quality and has long been used as a salad oil, especially in France. Chopped or crushed walnuts are added to salads and a wide range of dishes (meat, poultry, fish, stuffings, pastas and pates). Walnut is also used to flavor wines and liqueurs (especially brou de noix, a French liqueur made from the green husks). The following are some of Klein’s very favorite walnut recipes.
WALNUT CRUSTED BAKED SALMON—a tried-&-true, super-easy recipe that always produces restaurant quality results. This is a fantastic savory alternative to sweet honey, maple syrup or marmalade glazed salmon.
1/2 cup chopped walnuts
2 TBS. seasoned breadcrumbs
1 TBS. fresh lemon zest
2 tsp. olive oil
1/2 tsp. course salt
1/4 tsp. pepper
24 oz. skin-on or skinned salmon fillets
1 TBS. Dijon mustard
lemon slices for serving
Preheat the oven to 425º. Line a rimmed cookie sheet or broiler pan with foil and sprays with cooking spray. Pulse the walnuts, breadcrumbs, lemon zest, oil, salt and pepper in a food processor until crumbly. Place the salmon (skin-side-down if skin-on) on the pan and brush evenly with the mustard. Press the crumbs evenly onto the fillets. Bake until done—15-18 minutes depending on the thickness. Serve with lemon slices. Serves 4.
SYRIAN WALNUT SPREAD (MUHAMMARA)—a fantastic appetizer best served with quality pita chips. This recipe makes about two cups.
1 x 12 oz jar roasted red peppers in olive oil and garlic, drained
1 cup chopped walnuts
1/3 cup panko crumbs
2 TBS. extra virgin olive oil
2 tsp. lemon juice
1 tsp. ground cumin
1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper
salt to taste
pita chips
Blend all ingredients except the salt in a food processor until the consistency of a coarse puree. Season careful with salt to taste. Serve with pita chips.
RICK’S FAVORITE PESTO–This robust pesto recipe comes from Jane Brody’s Good Food Book (1985). It’s simple, extremely flavorful and freezes exceptionally well. Rick says he much prefers the stronger nut flavor of walnuts in this pesto over the much milder flavor of pine nuts. Give it a try and see what you think.
3 cloves garlic, chopped (1 TBS.)
1/4 tsp. salt
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 cups fresh, packed basil leaves
1/4 cup pine nuts or walnuts
1/2 cup grated parmesan
In a processor, combine the garlic, salt and oil and process till smooth. Add the basil and nuts and blend the mixture until smooth, stopping and scraping the sides down a few times as needed. Transfer mixture to a bowl and stir in the parmesan. Stir into warm, cooked and drained pasta. Makes 1 1/4 cups or enough for 1 lb. pasta. Freeze in containers in these single meal batches. Once frozen, transfer to freezer bag if desired to save freezer space. Will keep for up to 1 year. Thaw before using.
WALNUT FETA YOGURT DIP—This family favorite appeared in Better Homes & Gardens magazine.
4 cups plain, low-fat yogurt
2 oz. (1/2 cup) crumbled feta
1/3 cup chopped walnuts
2 TBS snipped dried tomatoes (not packed in oil)
1 tsp. dried oregano
1/4 tsp. salt
1/8 tsp. pepper
vegetables of choice for dipping (carrots, celery, cucumber slices, sweet peppers, etc.)
Line a colander with three layers of cheese cloth and suspend the colander over a bowl. Spoon in the yogurt and cover with plastic wrap and chill for 24-48 hrs. creating yogurt cheese. Place the yogurt cheese in a bowl. Stir in the feta, nuts, tomatoes, oregano, salt and pepper. Cover and chill at least 2 hours. Makes two cups. Serve with veggies of choice.
WALDORF SALAD—This classic from the 1950’s has made a real comeback in the past few years as cooks rediscover fun and healthy twists of the green salad standby.
4 medium-sized unpeeled tart apples (i.e. Granny Smith), cored and cubed
1/4 cup chopped celery
1/4 cup raisins
1/2 cup chopped walnuts
1 TBS. lemon juice
2 TBS. plain yogurt
2 TBS. mayo
2 tsp. honey
salad greens of choice
In a large bowl, combine the apples, celery, raisins and nuts. In a separate bowl, mix together the lemon juice, yogurt, mayo and honey. Stir well until blended. Add the dressing to the apple mixture. Toss together and serve over a bed of greens.
NATURAL NEWS–
Pruning Woody Plants
by Lisa Johnson, Dane County UWExtension horticulture educator
for the Wisconsin State Journal @ madison.com
Redtwig dogwood and shrub willows are prone to canker diseases that infect the branches, causing discolored sunken areas in the bark.
By pruning these plants on an annual basis using the thinning method, you can help keep them healthy.
The thinning method is a pruning technique whereby you remove about 30% of the biggest, oldest stems right at ground level, then lightly prune to shape the remaining stems.
The method removes older growth that is less vigorous and more susceptible to disease, while encouraging younger, more vigorous growth that is more disease- resistant. It also decreases humidity by thinning out the old growth, which can help discourage foliar fungal diseases like powdery mildew, that thrive in humid environments.
Double-flowering almond and purple-leaf sand cherry are susceptible to a disease called fire blight, which is a lethal bacterial disease that often strikes fruit trees as well.
It also causes cankers, but the bacteria overwinter in the cankers and ooze out in a sticky sap in spring. Be careful when pruning the shrubs as well as the willows and dogwoods with cankers because any of those diseases can be transmitted on pruning shears and moved from plant to plant.
For pruning diseased material, we recommend disinfecting your shears with rubbing alcohol after each cut instead of just between plants.
Summer-flowering shrubs such as spirea, potentilla, hibiscus, panicle hydrangeas (tear-drop shaped flower panicles that are white or pink and white) and smooth hydrangeas (large rounded white flower heads — NOT big-leaf hydrangeas, which are the pink and blue-flowered varieties with rounded flower heads), Japanese kerria, and Caryopteris can be pruned now while still dormant without losing any flowers — those will be produced on new growth later in the season.
Spring-flowering shrubs like lilacs should not be pruned this time of year unless you don’t mind losing flowers. See the UW-Extension factsheet on “How to Properly Prune Deciduous Shrubs” at the Wisconsin horticulture website hort.extension.wisc.edu/ for more information on how and when to prune various species.
APRIL’S PLANT OF THE MONTH:
Venus Fly Trap
By Bonnie L. Grant
Carnivorous plants are fun to grow and fascinating to watch and learn about. The Venus fly trap (Dionaea muscipula) is a moisture loving plant that grows near marshes and bogs. The plants have been overharvested in their native habitat and are becoming rare. Native to only a few areas in North and South Carolina, Venus fly traps grow in nitrogen depleted soils. This is why they trap insects, which provide them with the necessary nitrogen. Venus fly trap care is relatively easy and makes a great family project.
The Venus fly trap needs slightly acidic moist soils. Grow a Venus fly trap in a peat moss and sand mixture, which will provide mild acidity and help hold water without keeping soils too soggy. The plant needs at least 60 percent humidity and day time temperatures of 70 to 75 F. (22-24 C.). Nighttime temperatures should not go below 55 F. (13 C.). The Venus fly trap is sensitive to chemicals and heavy mineral contents, so a distilled or bottled water is best. Keep water off the foliage by soaking the plant for an hour in a dish of water to moisten the soil.
In order to make Venus fly trap care easier, make it a terrarium. An old aquarium makes a good housing for the plant if you cover it. This encourages humidity and moisture retention and you can allow insects to fly around inside for the plant to catch. Line the inside with TWO parts sphagnum moss and one part sand. The Venus fly trap can then be placed in an east- or west-facing window with high indirect lighting.
Venus fly trap is a rosette form with four to six leaves that are hinged and able to close. They are tinged a rosy pink on the edges and secrete an attractive nectar. The edges of the leaves have numerous fine sensitive cilia. When an insect touches the cilia the leaf closes and traps the insect. Special digestive juices disintegrate the insect and the plant feeds on the insects bodily fluid. Caring for a Venus fly trap must ensure that it is exposed to areas where it can capture insects.
The fly trap lives up to its name by using its clasping leaves to trap insects. Its diet is not only confined to flies and it will eat creeping insects such as ants, too. When you are caring for a Venus fly trap indoors, you need to assist them by capturing insects. Use tweezers and place the insect on an open leaf pad and tickle the little hairs on the edge until it closes. Some people try to water with beef bouillon or another protein but this can cause mold to form and is not recommended.
Source: www.gardeningknowhow.com
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.
The Canopy Sessions at Olbrich Gardens
Friday, April 1, 5:00-7:00 p.m.
In the Bolz Conservatory
Start your weekend with a live concert performed in one of Madison’s most unique venues. Explore the tropics, enjoy the warmth, and be entertained by some of the area’s most talented musicians.
- Purchase tickets in-advance online @ Order Tickets or by calling Mike Gibson at 608-243-0156
- Ticket revenue supports local musicians and Olbrich Gardens
- A limited number of reduced fee tickets are available. To request a fee waiver, please contact Mike Gibson at mgibson2@cityofmadison.com or 608-243-0156
- This is a strolling concert. There are a limited number of benches in the Conservatory.
- Lobby doors open at 4:30 p.m., Conservatory doors open at 5 p.m.
- Face masks are required
- No bar service. Carry-in water bottles allowed.
April 1:
The Honey Pies—They apply crystal vocal harmonies and virtuoso instrumental skills to the best of traditional, contemporary, and original Americana music.
Olbrich Botanical Gardens
608/246-4550 or www.olbrich.org for details.
Nature Hike @ the Arboretum
Sunday, April 3, 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm
Walk
Let your eyes adjust to the moonlight, listen to the night sounds, and experience the darkness on this naturalist-guided walk. Wear sturdy closed-toe shoes and come seasonally prepared for weather and insects. Walks take place except in unsafe weather. 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
Learning Together—Springtime Awakenings @ the Arboretum
Tuesday, April 12, 9:45 a.m.-11:15 a.m..
Family Class
We will take a walk to listen for birds and frogs, look for new leaves on trees and woodland wildflowers. We will share stories and create nature art and crafts. This class is for preschool-aged children and their adult caregivers. Adults must attend. Meet at the Visitor Center. Fee: $20 per family/group up to four people. Register by April 4. Wear sturdy closed-toe shoes and come seasonally prepared for weather and insects.
The cost is $20. Registration is required for this event. Register @ https://arboretum.wisc.edu/
University of WI Arboretum
1207 Seminole Hwy.
Madison, WI 53711
608/263-7888 or arboretum.wisc.edu
Sky Dance @ the Arboretum
Saturday, April 16, 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm
Night Walk
Listen for frogs and other night animals, like woodcocks. We can’t guarantee that wildlife will appear, but if they do we may see the woodcock’s fascinating mating ritual known as “sky dance.” Wear sturdy closed-toe shoes and come seasonally prepared for weather and insects. Walks take place except in unsafe weather. 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 @ the Arboretum
Sunday, April 17, 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm
Walk
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 and come seasonally prepared for weather and insects. Walks take place rain or shine, except in unsafe weather. 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
Rotary Garden’s What’s in Bloom? Tour
Wednesday, April 20, 6:00-7:00 p.m.
Rotary Botanical Gardens, 1455 Palmer Dr., Janesville, WI
Rotary Botanical Gardens Director of Horticulture, Michael Jesiolowski will provide a behind-the-scenes look at what’s blooming this month and answer any questions you may have.
What’s in Bloom? Tours take place on the 3rd Wednesday of the month (April- August) and the 4th Wednesday of September. The tours are free for RBG members, or $10 for non-members.
To register, please call 608.752.3885. or sign up in person on the day of the tour.
Rotary Botanical Gardens
608/752-3885 or www.rotarybotanicalgardens.
Magnolias @ the Arboretum
Saturday, April 23, 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Garden Tour
Tour the Longenecker Horticultural Gardens’ extensive collection of more than 80 magnolia trees. Join David Stevens, garden curator, for a blast of dazzling spring color. 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
Garden Stroll @ the Arboretum
Sunday, April 24, 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm
Walk
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
Early Signs of Spring @ the Arboretum
Saturday, April 30, 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Garden Tour
As trees begin to leaf out, Dutchman’s breeches, twin-leaf, and rue-anemones might be blooming in the woodland gardens, and pasqueflower and prairie-smoke in the prairie gardens. Susan Carpenter, Arboretum native plant gardener, will lead this tour. 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 @ the Arboretum
Sunday, May 1, 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm
Walk
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 and come seasonally prepared for weather and insects. Walks take place rain or shine, except in unsafe weather. 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 8 thru April 9, 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 8th 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
Dane County Farmer’s Market
Saturdays, April 16 thru November 12, 6:15-1:45
On the Capitol Square
Wednesdays, April 20 thru November 2, 8:30-1:45
In the 200 block of Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd.
For details visit www.dcfm.org
APRIL IN THE GARDEN–A checklist of things to do this month.
___Continue bringing out your cooled forced bulbs for indoor enjoyment.
___Early in the month, pot up cannas and dahlias for early growth.
___Begin removing, cleaning and storing winter bird feeders.
___Begin your summer bird feeding regimen.
___Keep birdbaths full and clean.
___Repair and put out birdhouses. Put out nesting material like pet hair & fibers.
___Seed starting is in full swing and even winding down by the end of April.
___Sterilize seed starting equipment and pots with a 1:16 bleach solution.
___Shop for summer bulbs like gladiolas, lilies and dahlias.
___Prune late summer and fall blooming shrubs.
___Do not prune spring blooming shrubs like lilacs, forsythia or viburnum.
___Continue bringing in branches for forcing: pussy willow, forsythia, quince, etc.
___Increase fertilizer to full strength by month’s end (houseplants).
___Ready the lawn mower if you haven’t done so already.
___Start weeding your beds. It’s easier while weeds are small & the soil moist.
___Remove all winter mulch from beds.
___Remove the soil mound from around roses and mums.
___Lay soaker hoses in beds. It’s easy now without plants in the way.
___Cut back all remaining perennials and ornamental grasses left from fall.
___Begin sowing seeds of larkspur, poppies and hardy annuals in the garden.
___Plant pansies, violas and calendula into the garden and containers.
___Harden off your seedlings and wintered over potted geraniums.
___Repair lawns by sowing grass seed. Rake the lawn.
___Move cole crop transplants to the garden; broccoli, kohlrabi, cabbage, etc.
___Plant onion sets and early spring crops like lettuce, spinach, carrots, beets
___Begin planting perennials. Plant shrubs and trees.
___Visit Klein’s—the showrooms are filled with spring annuals.
Some of our very favorite seed and plant sources include:
For seeds:
Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds @ www.rareseeds.com or 417/924-8887
Burpee @ www.burpee.com or 800/888-1447
Harris Seeds @ www.harrisseeds.com or 800/514-4441
Johnny’s Select Seeds @ www.johnnyseeds.com or 207/861-3901
Jung’s Seeds @ www.jungseed.com or 800/247-5864
Park’s Seeds @ www.parkseed.com or 800/845-3369
Pinetree @ www.superseeds.com or 207/926-3400
Seeds of Change @ www.seedsofchange.com or 888/762-7333
Seed Savers @ www.seedsavers.org or 563/382-5990
Select Seeds @ www.selectseeds.com or 800/684-0395
Territorial Seeds @ www.territorialseed.com or 888/657-3131
Thompson & Morgan @ www.thompson-morgan.com or 800/274-7333
For bulbs:
Brent & Becky’s Bulbs @ www.brentandbeckysbulbs.com or 877/661-2852
Colorblends @ www.colorblends.com or 888/847-8637
John Scheeper’s @ www.johnscheepers.com or 860/567-0838
McClure & Zimmerman @ www.mzbulb.com or 800/883-6998
For plants:
High Country Gardens @ www.highcountrygardens.com or 800/925-9387
Logee’s Greenhouses @ www.logees.com or 888/330-8038
Plant Delights Nursery @ www.plantdelights.com or 912/772-4794
Roots and Rhizomes @ www.rootsrhizomes.com or 800/374-5035
Wayside Gardens @ www.waysidegardens.com or 800/213-0379
White Flower Farm @ www.whiteflowerfarm.com or 800/503-9624
BEHIND THE SCENES AT KLEIN’S—This is a sneak peek of what is going on each month behind the scenes in our greenhouses. Many people are unaware that our facility operates year round or that we have 10 more greenhouses on the property in addition to the 6 open for retail. At any given moment we already have a jump on the upcoming season–be it poinsettias in July, geraniums in December or fall mums in May.
IN APRIL:
—Transplanting is in full swing on the transplanting line in our back greenhouses.
Employees work 8-10 hour shifts planting thousands of plugs and tiny seedlings into the cell packs you purchase in the spring. Once planted, the flats move by conveyor and then monorail into the various greenhouses, all kept at different temperatures depending on the plant.
—The greenhouses and showrooms are filling fast with thousands of hanging
and potted plants. We’re constantly moving product around, trying to make the best use of our limited space.
—Retail items are arriving nonstop for unpacking and pricing, everything from
garden ornaments and pottery to pesticides and fertilizers.
—Employees are readying the thousands of lilies, hydrangeas, azaleas, mums and spring bulbs that we deliver to the many area churches each Easter. We look forward to this time when the greenhouses are emptied to make room for our spring crops.
—Product is moved from the warmth of the greenhouses to the outdoors for the hardening off process. Plants are pinched back and moved outside so they can be acclimated for spring planting in your garden. Plants that have not been properly acclimated can find the transition to full sun and temperature extremes quite difficult. You’ve probably noticed that many garden centers do not harden off their plants properly. Symptoms include leaf burn and root rot.
—We’re readying the showrooms for the spring onslaught. Tables become fully stocked. Spring info and price signs are put into place. The last week of April is an amazing time to visit Klein’s. The showrooms are jam-packed, bursting with color, awaiting the spring rush which usually begins about May 1.
PERMANENT FEATURES–
KLEIN’S MONTHLY NEWSLETTER
Have our monthly newsletter e-mailed to you automatically by signing up on the right side of our home page. We’ll offer monthly tips, greenhouse news and tidbits, specials and recipes. . .everything you need to know from your favorite Madison greenhouse. And tell your friends. It’s easy to do.
THE MAD GARDENER–“Madison’s Firsthand Source for Expert Gardening Advice”
Ask us your gardening questions by e-mailing us at madgardener@kleinsfloral.com. Klein’s in-house Mad Gardener will e-mail you with an answer as promptly as we can. The link is posted on our home page and in all newsletters.
We can only answer those questions pertaining to gardening in Southern Wisconsin and we reserve the right to leave correspondence unanswered at our discretion. Please allow 2-3 days for a response.
TO WRITE A REVIEW OF KLEIN’S, PLEASE LINK TO
FACEBOOK
Follow Klein’s on Facebook where we post updates and photos on a regular basis.
TWITTER
Join Klein’s on Twitter where we post company updates and photos on a regular basis.
SENIOR CITIZEN DISCOUNT
We offer a 10% Off Senior Citizen Discount every Tuesday to those 62 and above. This discount is not in addition to other discounts or sales. Please mention that you are a senior before we ring up your purchases. Does not apply to wire out orders or services, i.e. delivery, potting, etc.
RECYCLING POTS & TRAYS
Plastic flower pots and garden edging can now be recycled as part of the City of Madison’s rigid plastic program. Flowerpots and edging must be free of dirt and can be placed in your green recycling bin. For more information call 267-2626 or visit www.cityofmadison.com/streets/
DELIVERY INFO
Klein’s Floral and Greenhouses delivers daily, except Sundays, throughout all of Madison and much of Dane County including: Cottage Grove, DeForest, Fitchburg, Maple Bluff, Marshall, McFarland, Middleton, Monona, Oregon, Shorewood Hills, Sun Prairie, Verona, Waunakee and Windsor. We do not deliver to Cambridge, Columbus, Deerfield or Stoughton.
Current delivery rate on 1-4 items is $7.95 for Madison, Maple Bluff, Monona and Shorewood Hills; $8.95 for Cottage Grove, DeForest, Fitchburg, McFarland, Sun Prairie, Waunakee and Windsor; and $9.95 for Marshall, Middleton, Oregon and Verona. An additional $3.00 will be added for deliveries of 4-10 items and $5.00 added for deliveries of more than 10 items. For deliveries requiring more than one trip, a separate delivery charge will be added for each trip.
A minimum order of $25.00 is required for delivery.
We not only deliver our fabulous fresh flowers, but also houseplants, bedding plants and hardgoods. There may be an extra charge for very large or bulky items.
Delivery to the Madison hospitals is $5.95. Deliveries to the four Madison hospitals are made during the early afternoon. Items are delivered to the hospital’s volunteer rooms and not directly to the patients’ rooms per hospital rules.
There is no delivery charge for funerals in the city of Madison or Monona, although normal rates apply for morning funeral deliveries to Madison’s west side (west of Park St.). Our normal rates also apply for funeral deliveries in the surrounding communities at all times. Although we don’t deliver on Sundays, we will deliver funeral items on Sundays at the regular delivery rate.
Morning delivery is guaranteed to the following Madison zip codes, but only if requested: 53703, 53704, 53714, 53716, 53718 and Cottage Grove, DeForest, Maple Bluff, Marshall, McFarland, Monona, Sun Prairie, Waunakee and Windsor.
We begin our delivery day at 8:00 a.m. and end at approximately 3:00 p.m. We do not usually deliver after 4:00 unless specific exceptions are made with our drivers.
Except for holidays, the following west-side zip codes and communities are delivered only during the afternoon: 53705, 53706, 53711, 53713, 53717, 53719, 53726, Fitchburg, Middleton, Oregon, Shorewood Hills and Verona.
During holidays (Christmas, Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, etc.) we are able to make morning deliveries to all of the above areas. We are not able to take closely timed deliveries on any holiday due to the sheer volume of such requests.
It’s best to give us a range of time and we’ll try our absolute hardest. Orders for same day delivery must be placed by 12:30 p.m. or by 2:30 p.m. for Madison zip codes 53704 and 53714.
DEPARTMENT HEADS: Please refer all questions, concerns or feedback in the following departments to their appropriate supervisor.
Phone: 608/244-5661 or 888/244-5661
Horticulturalist & General Manager–Jamie VandenWymelenberg jamie@kleinsfloral.com
Accounts, Billing and Purchasing—Kathryn Derauf kathryn@kleinsfloral.com
Delivery Supervisor & Newsletter Coordinator—Rick Halbach rick@kleinsfloral.com
Owner, Floral Designer & Purchasing—Sue Klein sue@kleinsfloral.com
RELATED RESOURCES AND WEB SITES
University of Wisconsin Extension
1 Fen Oak Ct. #138
Madison, WI 53718
608/224-3700
Plant Disease Diagnostics Clinic
Dept. of Plant Pathology
1630 Linden Dr.
Madison, WI 53706
Insect Diagnostic Lab
240 Russell Labs
1630 Linden Dr.
Madison, WI 53706
U.W. Soil and Plant Analysis Lab
8452 Mineral Point Rd.
Verona, WI 53593
608/262-4364
American Horticultural Society
Garden Catalogs (an extensive list with links)
Invasive Species
Community Groundworks
3601 Memorial Dr., Ste. 4
Madison, WI 53704
608/240-0409
Madison Area Master Gardeners (MAMGA)
Wisconsin Master Gardeners Program
Department of Horticulture
1575 Linden Drive
University of Wisconsin – Madison
Madison, WI 53706
608/265-4504
The Wisconsin Gardener
Allen Centennial Gardens
620 Babcock Dr.
Madison, WI 53706
608/262-8406
Olbrich Botanical Gardens
3330 Atwood Ave.
Madison, WI 53704
608/246-4550
Rotary Gardens
1455 Palmer Dr.
Janesville, WI 53545
608/752-3885
University of WI Arboretum
1207 Seminole Hwy.
Madison, WI 53711
608/263-7888
University of Wisconsin-West Madison
Agricultural Research Center
8502 Mineral Point Rd.
Verona, WI 53593
608/262-2257
PLANTS POISONOUS TO CHILDREN:
Children may find the bright colors and different textures of plants irresistible, but some plants can be poisonous if touched or eaten. If you’re in doubt about whether or not a plant is poisonous, don’t keep it in your home. The risk is not worth it. The following list is not comprehensive, so be sure to seek out safety information on the plants in your home to be safe.
•Bird of paradise
•Bull nettle
•Castor bean
•Chinaberry tree
•Crocus
•Daffodil
•Deadly nightshade
•Dieffenbachia (dumb cane)
•Foxglove
•Glory lily
•Hemlock
•Holly berry
•Indian tobacco
•Iris
•Jimsonweed
•Lantana
•Larkspur
•Lily of the valley
•Marijuana
•Mescal bean
•Mexicantes
•Mistletoe
•Morning glory
•Mountain laurel
•Night-blooming jasmine
•Nutmeg
•Oleander
•Philodendron
•Poison ivy
•Poison sumac
•Pokeweed
•Poppy
•Potato
•Privet
•Rhododendron
•Rhubarb
•Water hemlock
•Wisteria
PLANTS POISONOUS TO PETS:
Below is a list of some of the common plants which may produce a toxic reaction in animals. This list is intended only as a guide to plants which are generally identified as having the capability for producing a toxic reaction. Source: The National Humane Society website @ http://www.humanesociety.org/
•Aconite
•Apple
•Arrowgrasses
•Autumn Crocus
•Azaleas
•Baneberry
•Bird-of-Paradise
•Black locust
•Bloodroot
•Box
•Buckeye
•Buttercup
•Caladium
•Carolina jessamine
•Castor bean
•Chinaberry tree
•Chockcherries
•Christmas berry
•Christmas Rose
•Common privet
•Corn cockle
•Cowbane
•Cow cockle
•Cowsliprb
•Daffodil
•Daphne
•Day lily
•Delphinium (Larkspur)
•Dumbcane
•Dutchman’s breeches
•Easter lily
•Elderberry
•Elephant’s ear
•English Ivy
•European Bittersweet
•Field peppergrass
•Foxglove
•Holly
•Horsechestnut
•Horse nettle
•Hyacinth
•Iris
•Jack-in-the-pulpit
•Jerusalem Cherry
•Jimsonweed
•Lantana
•Larkspur
•Laurels
•Lily of the valley
•Lupines
•Mayapple
•Milk vetch
•Mistletoe
•Monkshood
•Morning glory
•Mustards
•Narcissus
•Nicotiana
•Nightshade
•Oaks
•Oleander
•Philodendrons
•Pokeweed
•Poinsettia
•Poison hemlock
•Potato
•Rhododendron
•Rhubarb
•Rosary pea
•Sago palm
•Skunk cabbage
•Smartweeds
•Snow-on-the-mountain
•Sorghum
•Star of Bethlehem
•Wild black cherry
•Wild radish
•Wisteria
•Yellow jessamine
•Yew