Lisa's Green Thumb From growing up on the farm to now, I have learned many tricks of the trade along the way.  It is my pleasure to share my tips with you.  If you have questions/ideas for new topics, please email me at: lisa@grafgrowers.com.

5.2.08 - This weekend kick’s off our “New for You” promotion...

.... where we will highlight new plants & products all season long with a stork (pictured). I thought I would tell you about a few of those new items that you might want to consider. Heuchera ‘Midnight Rose’ (Perennial) The deep burgundy foliage with rose colored blotches intensifies with color during times of cool temperatures make this more beautiful in early spring & fall. Heuchera, commonly known as coral bells provide color & interest to the landscape from early spring until snowfall. They grow in full sun to light shade. Rose ‘Sunny Knock-out’ This new yellow rose is the first yellow variety in the knock-out series & they have a wonderful soft fragrance. They are known for their prolific blooms & easy care including disease resistance & winter hardiness. Bougainvillaea ‘Vera Light Pink’, ‘Vera White’, ‘Elizabeth Angus Purple’, ‘Juanita Hatten Red’ (annual) Beautiful tropical flowers with larger, more vibrant blooms than older varieties. They like a warm sunny spot. Anisodontea ‘Elegant Lady’ commonly known as Cape Mallow (annual) Beautiful pink flowers that remind you of hollyhock, this plant loves full sun & grows 24” – 36” tall.

Penny Royal (herb)
New to Graf Growers, this herb is used as a natural mosquito reppellant & can be used to create a natural flea collar for pets. It can be grown trailing out of container gardens or in beds.

Acer palmatun ‘Shishigashira’
I can’t pronounce it either. Just remember the common name Lion’s Head Japanese Maple. The foliage is heavily curled & tight with great texture for the landscape. This is a unique tree that grows best in filtered or indirect sun. You just have to see it!

There is many more so you’ll want to stop out & have a look.

One other thing, many people ask if they can plant the impatiens they are purchasing. It is our recommendation that you plant them after the 15th of May depending on the weather forecast. We suggest you keep them outside in a lightly shaded area, water them regularly & protect them from frost as needed. If you have a protected landscape you may be able to plant them now however be prepared to cover them in case of frost.

4.25.08 - What can I plant now? That's the question of the week!
What can I plant now? That’s the question of the week. The weather has been so beautiful & we’re all anxious to get started planting. Take advantage of warm days & cool nights to establish perennials, shrubs & trees as well as grass seed & early season vegetables. You can get started planting annual container gardens, adding hanging baskets & porch pots to your patio & planting herbs & vegetables however we recommend that you are prepared to protect them in case of frost. The weather can be up & down this time of year so you just have to watch the weather forecast.  

This week many people participated in Earth Day & Arbor day activities. Keep Akron Beautiful provides a wonderful experience for students with a tree planting program. Graf Growers has a small part in this program providing a contribution of peat moss to pack the tree seedlings. As we think about our environment & improving the earth it is small changes repeatedly that bring about big changes. This year we have added a new section of Earth friendly gardening products with organic fertilizers, pest & weed controls. I sampled many of these products last year in my garden & they worked quite well however the key to using less chemicals in the garden is to have good cultural practices. A few examples of this are proper plant spacing prevents disease issues,  amending the soil with organic materials allows better drainage & air to the roots which aids growth, & choosing the right plant for the location creates less stress for plants which allows them to grow better.  Additionally, internally we have been recycling office paper, using drip irrigation to save water & looking at other ways to we might improve. Think about little changes that you can make to improve the earth & enjoy gardening!

4.18.08 - Introducing New Arrivals May 3rd & 4th!

This week I received an email with a question about early spring pruning. I thought I would share the question & my response with you.
Question: It is a nice day today.  Is it safe to cut back shrubs now or  is it to soon?  I don’t want to kill anything if it decides to cool down or even snow,  I live in Akron Ohio.  In other words can I get out there and start cutting back the shrubs.
        
Response: It is a beautiful day & yes you can prune many shrubs now but there are a few varieties that it would be better to wait. I will explain briefly & if you have specific questions just email or call us.
*The rule of thumb is that if they are a spring flowering bush it is best to prune them just after they finish blooming because if you prune them now you will cut off the buds.
*Other non-flowering deciduous bushes (ones that loose their leaves in the winter) can be pruned anytime from late February to late spring. You can trim them other times however if you trim them before the leaves emerge they will look better.
*It would be best to prune or shear evergreens after new growth has emerged later in the summer, however if you have a particular specimen that is growing wildly, it would not hurt it to prune it or shape it up. Be advised that some evergreens like arborvitae & others have a naturally pleasing growth habit & should not be pruned.
*Hydrangeas are a little tricky. Some varieties produce blooms on the old stems & others on the new growth. We would be happy to advise you if we know what variety you are working with.
*Perennials & Grasses left from last year can be cut back now however woody perennials like butterfly bush, lavender & clematis grow off the old stems & should only be shaped at this time.

One other thing that you can be doing now;. I would recommend that you fertilize perennials with Plantone & evergreens, azaleas & other acid loving shrubs with Hollytone. They are natural fertilizers with many micronutrients that will encourage healthy new growth, strong stems & healthy roots.

4.11.08 - Celebrate the Magic Spring!
It’s been a beautiful week with sunny days & warm temperatures. As I drove through several neighborhoods last weekend I saw many families outside raking & picking up sticks or running & playing. I walked around my back yard last night & was amazed by how much everything grew in just 1 week. That is part of the magic of spring when neighbors reappear after a long winter of hibernation, plants emerge with new growth, the grass turns greener & spring blooms burst forth. Although the weather is forecasted to be a cool weekend, warm days will follow soon after.

I am a beginning knitter & whenever I go to the yarn store I am always confused as to what yarn would be best for my project so I usually end up buying the yarn I fall in love with & then find a project for it.  I am sure it is the same way when you arrive at the garden store as the pretty blooms are so enticing. One of the keys to a successful landscape is choosing the right plant for the location. Let me explain. First you want to choose a plant that will tolerate the conditions of the site. If it is sunny or shady, if the soil is moist for long periods of time or very dry, etc. Further considerations are aesthetic. Do you want something colorful or subtle? How tall would you like it to grow & would you enjoy a certain blooming time? I know this all seems overwhelming but that is why we’re here to help. First, take a walk through your landscape & observe the different planting areas to determine if there are special needs for an area. If you can, take a photo of the area & a few measurements then bring it with you to make your selections. Our staff members are experienced & we will work with you to make plant selections that should thrive & flourish in your landscape as well as planting advice. It is so rewarding to work in your landscape when everything is growing & looking great!

4.4.08 - It's going to be a great weekend to tackle early Spring tasks!
The weekend forecast is great for early spring gardening & landscaping. It‘s going to feel great to get outside, tackle a few of the early spring tasks, & dig in the dirt.  I am reminded of my youth growing up on a vegetable farm. This is the week we would start to plow the fields & plant onion sets. After school, we would crawl on the ground setting onion sets side by side in long rows that seemed endless at the time. In a few short weeks the onions sprouted & soon were ready for harvest in late May. If you are anxious to enjoy fresh vegetables from the garden you can get started by planting peas, onion sets, lettuce, spinach, seed potatoes & others. These are all vegetables that prefer cooler temperatures & like to be planted in the early spring! You’ll be glad you did. Furthermore, if you wish to plant landscape plants it is safe to plant most perennials, shrubs, trees & pansies.

A few other spring tasks you might consider:
Fertilize existing beds with all natural Plantone & Hollytone by Espoma. Sprinkle Hollytone around acid loving plants like Rhododendrons, Azaleas, evergreen shrubs, & others. Plantone is a wonderful fertilizer for perennials. It is inexpensive & very effective. It’s worth your time to do this because fertilized plants are stronger, healthier & look better in the landscape

Plant grass seed & fill in bare spots. Take advantage of warm days & cool nights to germinate grass seed. If you are filling bare spots you can us Grass Seed Accelerator as an alternative to straw. It is so easy to use. Just spread lightly over the seed & then water it. The pellets swell & flatten over the seed providing protection & holding moisture as well as fertilizing the young starts. You do not have to rake it up as it will decompose in the earth.

Stop in this weekend & say Hello! It’s always fun to see the new plants as they arrive.

3.28.08 - Get Ready to Play in the Dirt!!!
One of the most important but often overlooked aspects of planting landscape beds & gardens is soil preparation & soil amendments.  We can’t see below the soil surface when a plant is growing but if we could the root system is almost always a mirror image of the health of the plant. Thriving & vigorous plants will have large & thriving root systems which enable plants to survive drought or other extreme conditions as well as disease & insect problems. With proper soil amendments landscape & garden plants will grow more vigorously, with bigger blooms & stronger stems. This is a great time to get started adding soil amendments before it is time to plant.

First, you need to determine the type of soil that you are working with so that you can amend it properly. Is it heavy clay (most of Akron is), sandy or a good loam mix? If you are not sure you can test this by taking a clump of soil that is not saturated & squeeze it in your fist. If the soil holds together in a clump it is clay, if it falls apart loosely it is sandy & if it  kind of crumbles it is loamy soil.

If you have heavy clay soil you can amend it by adding bark soil conditioner which is a finely ground bark mix. Sandy soil will benefit from the water holding properties of peat moss or Bumper Crop compost mix which will allow the soil to retain nutrients for the plant. Loose loamy soil is the best however you can add a light mix of Bumper Crop or Sweet Peet (this is not a spelling error) or homemade compost to increase the organic content of the soil.  Incorporate the amendments into the existing soil of a new bed as deep as you can (up to 12”) before you plant. If possible, use a tiller to do this. If not, mix it in with a shovel. When amending an existing bed put a light layer of the amendments on the soil surface & let the rain & snow etc. work it in over time. Although this method is slower it will work well.

Additionally, soil amendments do not take the place of fertilizer but rather help the fertilizer to work more efficiently. If you have a bed that is struggling or you’re starting in a new area it is always advisable to do a soil test to chech the ph of the soil. We carry free test kits from Calmar laboratories which you mail in with a sample for a fee or ph meters to test it yourself. The mail in test is more complete however either will work.

I look forward to seeing you in the store soon.

3.21.08 - Welcome Spring!
Everything holds its breath except spring. She bursts through as strong as ever. Emily Carr (1871 – 1945) artist & writer
Despite the lingering winter weather the sun is brighter, the days are longer & we’re all anxiously awaiting spring like weather & the opportunity to get outside & play in the dirt! As gardeners, we can celebrate the first days of spring & Easter with traditional flowers that are fragrant as well as beautiful & bring a fresh touch to our homes. Additionally, most Easter plants will continue to grow so that you can enjoy them for a long time or again next spring. Let me explain:
*Lilies - can be planted in a lightly shaded location outdoors after they are done blooming & they will die back (leaves & stems will turn brown & then you can remove them) & then they will grow & bloom again  in August. In addition, they are most often perennial & will return each year.
*Hyacinths, Tulips & Daffodils – can be planted outdoors when they are done blooming. Leave the foliage & let them turn completely brown before you remove them. They will reemerge & bloom next spring.
*Orchids – their blooms are long lasting & can be enjoyed indoors for a very long time. Grow on as a houseplant & they will rebloom periodically.
*Hydrangeas – forced florist type hydrangeas have very long lasting blooms (several months) as long as you keep them watered regularly. If you plant them outdoors they will most often come back & grow as a shrub but will not bloom in our zone so it is advisable to enjoy them indoors.

3.14.08 - Here are some helpful tips to get your landscape ready for Spring...
It is hard to believe 1 week ago today we were experiencing a major snowstorm & yesterday I saw a few perennials in my yard with new green growth peaking through the snow. This is really a great illustration of the insulating qualities of snow which aids in the protection of plants from extreme freezing & thawing. Now that the snow is starting to melt & we can feel spring in the air I thought I would provide you with a few tips for your landscape.
*If arborvitae or other evergreen plants split at the top with the weight of the snow you can use panty hose to tie them together if they do not stand up on their own. The nylon is easy to hide toward the center of the plant & offers elasticity so the plant can grow & mature.
*If you left ornamental grasses for winter interest you should cut them back now before the new growth appears. This is true of most perennials as well.
*After the snow melts you can start to fertilize evergreens, azaleas, rhododendron, & other acid loving plants to get a head start on the season. This really helps to promote root growth, stronger stems, more blooms & healthier plants overall.
*It is a great time to prune deciduous shrubs (ones that loose their leaves in the winter) like burning bush, itea & others! Avoid pruning spring blooming shrubs until after they have bloomed & most hydrangeas do not require pruning however if you have questions about them please give us a call.
* Keep feeding the birds! They’re still hungry!
Think Spring…it is coming soon!

2.22.08 - Graf Grower's staff is keeping busy this winter...
I am looking out my window at the nursery, barren & beautifully blanketed with snow. It is hard to imagine that in 6 weeks the nursery will be filled with plants & people. That’s what I love about the changing seasons; there is always a fresh start & something to look forward to. We are asked many times what we do in the winter. It is our time for planning & planting for the spring & summer seasons. Laura has been busy ordering perennials & shrubs for the nursery including many new varieties that we think you’ll love for your landscape. The greenhouse staff is in full production planting hanging baskets & other annuals. The landscape staff has been attending educational programs as well as designing landscapes & preparing equipment. As you might imagine just like the roots that are growing & developing all winter under the ground we are busy preparing for spring behind the scenes! I think you will enjoy many of the new plants & products we’ll be featuring this spring.

If you are sick of snow & anxious for spring just remember that the snow is providing wonderful insulation for landscape plants & protects them from freezing during times of very low temperatures.  

2.15.08 - Dreaming of Spring? There's is still some work to be done before Winter's end!
As I walked through the greenhouse this morning looking at the pansies & other spring plants that are newly planted & growing vigorously I am reminded that spring is near. It is at this point in the winter season that I begin what I call arm chair gardening (dreaming). Searching through books & magazines thinking about changes I wish to make to my landscape & new plants I want to try. I also find myself filling my home with new houseplants & potted flowers.

If you do not mind bundling up there are a few landscape chores that can be done in the winter. It is a good time to get outside for a few minutes & evaluate the structure of your landscape & think about changes you want to make. If you left ornamental grasses or perennials standing last fall you’ll want to cut them back anytime between now & mid March. In addition, late winter is a great time to prune deciduous shrubs except for spring blooming varieties such as forsythia, & lilacs. If you’re not sure give us a call.

2.8.08- Houseplants may need a little fertilizer as the days start to get longer...
It is so good to see the sunshine today…it gives us hope for spring! This past week I had several calls about houseplant care which prompted me to talk about them today. One question was about fertilization & whether or not they should be fertilizing houseplants in the winter. The short answer is yes, you can fertilize houseplants in the winter however in early winter when the days are very short plants will grow more slowly. Although they will sustain life they will be slow to produce new stems or leaves therefore they only require minimal fertilization. In mid February to early March as the days get longer & the sun is brighter you will see new growth & vigor. At this time plants will benefit most from regular fertilization to encourage stronger stems & healthy new growth. Choose a fertilizer that is labeled for houseplants & use it according to the directions. We like Schultz’s Houseplant Food however Miracle Gro & others will work. In addition, it is a good time to prune houseplants which will allow for more branching and repot root bound houseplants anytime between mid February & Spring. The reason it is best to transplant houseplants this time of year is because when they are actively growing they will grow new roots to fill the pot faster therefore you have less risk of over watering. Give your houseplants a boost with GreenGlo plant shine which is an oil spray that will brighten up dull leaves. You’ll be amazed how good they will look with a little attention & it will feel good to get your hands in the dirt again!!!

Today the landscape team is attending a seminar on installing rooftop gardens which provide greater insulation for buildings & absorbs rainwater run-off. This is an exciting new concept that we look forward to sharing with you in the future.

2.1.08- Get a head start on Spring by starting seeds indoors!
Are you anxious for spring? As the calendar flips to February I find myself ready for spring & eager to see things growing! You will find as days lengthen that your houseplants will begin to grow more so it is a good time to encourage new growth with houseplant fertilizer. Additionally, if you want to get a head start on spring you may consider starting a few seeds indoors. It is a fun & easy project to do with children. You can use recycled egg cartons or other containers or you can buy a tray filled with peat pots with a greenhouse type dome lid to get started. Moisten soil for seeding in a bucket & mix it to distribute the moisture evenly through the soil. Fill containers with soil, and then plant the seeds according to the directions. (Various seeds have different requirements for light & depth which will be on the packet.)  Cover the container with the domed lid or a plastic bag to create its own greenhouse like environment where condensation will provide the needed moisture. Place in a sunny window & check daily allowing a little air into the covered container. When seedlings appear & have two leaves remove the plastic dome or bag & begin watering the soil surface. Remember that when seedlings are very small they have very small roots so keep soil moist with a spray bottle at first then use more water as they begin to grow & have a more developed root system. One other hint: seeds have various germination times so some seeds will pop up in a few days others take a few weeks (this information is also on the packet) so do not be discouraged if some germinate faster than others. As always, we are willing to help you learn more & answer your questions so feel free to stop in or call us if you have questions.

I would like to personally invite you to attend the Landscape Seminar this Saturday Feb. 2nd at 10:00 AM presented by Tom Kriska & I. You’ll enjoy the visual tour of area landscapes as well as design ideas. The seminar will be helpful whether you enjoy doing it yourself or if you are planning to have work done. There are plenty of seats available so just stop in. The coffee is ready at 9:30AM.

1.25.08- Tips from the Ohio Nursery & Landscape Show!
This week many of our staff members & I traveled to Columbus to the Ohio Nursery & Landscape Show where thousands of green industry professionals gathered to attend seminars & see new plant & product introductions. One of our newer staff members asked me how many times I had attended. Although I am not exactly sure, I know it has been more than 15 times. This really got me thinking about why I look forward to going to the show each year. I am always excited to learn new things & see the latest plant introductions as well as meet up with industry friends. This year was just as exciting as the ones in the past. I am thankful that after so many years in the industry I still have a great deal of enthusiasm for it. I decided that the reason the industry remains exciting for me is the same reason people enjoy gardening & spending time in their landscape. Every spring brings a new beginning as we look forward to bulbs popping, grass greening, emerging leaves on trees & spending time outdoors.

One trend that was mentioned often is that the landscape is really an extension of the home & is looked at as an outdoor room. I totally agree that many people use their patio & backyard as an extension of the home for entertaining & fun. Where meals are shared & many retreat after a stress filled day. Take advantage of these winter days to think about your outdoor living space & plan ahead to make changes to enhance your landscape. Look through books & magazines for ideas, walk through the landscape & look at the winter structure of the plants & beds to identify changes needed. Additionally, you may want to attend the seminar on Landscape trends that Tom Kriska & I will be presenting on Feb. 2nd. 

1.17.08- It's time to spruce up your houseplants with a little TLC!!
Are your houseplants looking a little pale? If so, take time to trim thin straggly stems (depending on the variety), remove damaged leaves & fertilize them with a houseplant fertilizer the next time you water. Leaves will turn a darker green & as the days get longer the fertilizer will encourage new growth.

This coming week many of our staff members will be traveling to Columbus to the Ohio Nursery & Landscape Show where thousands of green industry professionals will gather to attend seminars & see new plant & product introductions. Additionally, some staff members will be taking tests to become certified landscape technicians. It is always exciting to learn & see what is new so we can provide you with the latest & greatest! I will share more upon our return.

1.11.08- Happy New Year!!
It’s a new year of gardening as well. A few days ago I planted tulip & daffodil bulbs that I didn’t get planted in the fall. It was a rare opportunity to dig in the dirt in January & it felt great! Another way to get a “gardening fix” in the winter is to attend the upcoming gardening seminars. It is a great way to learn more about your landscape & get ideas so you can try new things this year. The first seminar is on Native Plants & this is especially helpful if you have areas with special needs in your landscape. 

As we look ahead to the spring season I am always amazed at the plethora of new plant varieties & gardening products available each year. This week we have had several meetings to discuss new plants, products & ideas for the spring season.  Although we are still in the planning stages, I cannot wait to share them with you as soon as I can. Stay tuned…

12.14.07- Joy & Peace to you & yours this holiday season!
On behalf of the Graf Family & staff of Graf Growers I extend our heartfelt appreciation for your business & your friendship during the past year!

I started writing this blog about 6 months ago offering gardening tips, introducing new plant varieties & sharing a little bit about my garden. It has been fun to share each week & I hope you have enjoyed it as well. As we look ahead to 2008 I would encourage you to consider attending one of our upcoming winter seminars. It is a great way to kick off the gardening season, meet other gardeners, & learn more! (It’s even more fun when you bring a friend!) Click for more information & a printable registration form.

12.14.07 - Here are a few of my favorite gardening gift ideas...
Finding a gift for a gardener is often difficult because they usually have the usual tools & supplies. I have listed a few gift ideas for gardeners or new homeowners that you might consider:
*Consider giving them a beautiful pot or urn & a gift card for plants to fill it in the spring or a bag of potting soil!
*Perhaps they would enjoy an indoor garden to brighten up the winter with an assortment of blooming & green plants arranged in a basket like a miniature garden.
*Statues of dogs & cats, birdbaths, & other decorative accessories are a favorite of many to add a decorative touch to the garden.
*Registration to attend Graf’s Winter Gardening Seminars on Saturday mornings is a great way for a new homeowner to get started or a seasoned gardener to learn more & meet other gardeners!
* Mud gloves, pruners & other handy gadgets make great stocking stuffers!
Graf’s Gift Cards - so the gardeners on your list can go crazy in the spring buying all their favorite plants & fun accessories! This is always a gift worth waiting for!

12.7.07 - Keep your poinsettias beautiful with these helpful tips...
I’m sure you’ll want to keep your Poinsettia plants looking their best so here is a few tips to help guide you. Poinsettias like bright to moderate light however, it is best if they have 2-3 hours of bright light per day. Avoid draft spots or heat sources like a fireplace or registers & most importantly keep the soil moist evenly moist with regular watering when the soil feels dry to the touch. Be sure to drain the saucer which may require you to cut a slit in the foil so that it will drain well. It is best to water the plant 2 – 3 times slowly in a 5 minute period so the soil can absorb the water instead of flushing through it.

12.1.07 - Watch out for Wintry Weather...
The weather forecast is for wintry weather to arrive in the next few days so today is your last chance for awhile to rake up any remaining leaves & finish up gardening chores. If you live near a wooded area or have problems with deer grazing you may want to treat with a repellant to keep them from destroying ornamentals. Spray susceptible plants with “Liquid Fence” or if you prefer not to spray you can use “Plant Protec” which is a plastic tube filled with a highly concentrated form of garlic oil that you hang on desirable plants to repel deer & rabbits. We have received good feedback on both products.

Add a little drama to your holiday decorations with an easy to grow Phalaenopsis Orchid. They are easy to grow in bright to moderate light, with regular watering blooms will last a long time. Blend them with cyclamen & ivy or use them separately in a festive pot.  They look especially pretty on a silver tray with a few glass ornaments or other trinkets.

11.21.07 - Holiday flowers will really brighten up your home!
If you have been reading this blog each week you’ve probably realized how much I love plants. They add life to our homes, are very rewarding to grow & have the added benefit of cleaning the air. When you are planning your holiday decorating consider adding a few holiday plants. Poinsettias are the most popular holiday plant & add a bold spot of color in the home however there are many other holiday plants to choose from. Cyclamen & Christmas cactus are colorful & add a festive touch. An ivy plant in a wreath shape adds dimension & texture for mantle or table. Amaryllis are dramatic as their flowers tower over the plant & a Norfolk Island Pine can be an alternative to a Christmas tree in small spaces. Consider combining several of the plants together in a basket for a centerpiece or gift for a loved one. Stop in for complete Holiday Plant Care sheet!

11.16.07 - It's not to late for those last minute gardening chores...
As the first snowflakes appear we are reminded that the gardening season has come to a close however there is still time for a few last minute gardening chores before you settle in for the winter. You can still plant spring blooming bulbs as long as the ground is not frozen, you can protect roses by putting a rose collar around them & filling it with soil or mulch to protect the graft, protect rhododendrons by spraying Wilt Pruf to prevent winter injury, & fertilize your lawn & dormant plants. In addition, the leaves are still falling & you will want to get them up so they do not smother healthy grass & ground covers.  So bundle up & enjoy the crisp cool air while you put your garden to rest.

I always enjoy looking at the structure of my landscape after the leaves have fallen. It is a good time to evaluate what you like about your landscape & what is needed to improve the overall appearance. Take a few minutes to write down a few notes for next year & take a few pictures so you can plan changes this winter.

11.2.07 - Don't Forget to Fertilize...
Throw a few logs on the fire, & settle in for a long winters nap. No wait, there a few things left to do in the landscape. Now that we have had a killing frost, take time to cut back perennials, remove dead annuals, & take care of general fall clean-up in your landscape. This is especially important if the leaves are diseased with black spot or powdery mildew. In addition, one can fertilize dormant perennials with PlantoneTM by Espoma & shrubs with HollytoneTM. While plants are dormant their root system is active beneath the soil surface & the organic qualities of the Espoma fertilizers will really help to strengthen plants so you have healthier plants next spring. Furthermore, fertilize your lawn with Scotts Lawn Pro Turf Builder with Winterguard TM to strengthen your lawn for next spring. If you are still inclined to add plantings it is still safe to plant & we have a decent selection at 40% - 50% savings.
One last tip of the week: If you have a problem with deer browsing & destroying plants in the winter landscape you can start spraying the repellant “Liquid Fence” on the bark. It lasts approximately 30 days & it really does help to keep damage to a minimum. In addition, spray bulbs with “Liquid Fence” before planting to prevent animals from digging up the bulbs.  

10.26.07 - Last Minute Preparations for Your Garden Before Winter!
It’s time to think about last minute preparations for your garden before winter. Since it has been so warm many annuals still look great & late season gardening chores have been delayed but are still important. I have created a list to get you started in the next few weeks.
*To avoid wind burn & winter injury on rhododendrens, azaleas & other delicate broadleaf evergreens apply Wilt Pruf Plant Protector. Easily applied by spraying the foliage, this product will help to seal in moisture & protect plants. It is best to apply it anytime between now & the first snowfall or anytime weather permits.
*As you pull out the final plants from your vegetable garden or annual beds it is a good time to amend the soil with Bumper Crop or your own compost in preparation for next year. Put a thin layer on top & the snow & rain will help to work it into the soil.
* Plant fall bulbs like tulips & daffodils so you can enjoy them next spring. By planting late in the fall you can avoid them emerging from the ground prematurely due to warm weather.
* Put Rose collars around rose bushes & fill with topsoil or mulch to protect the graft from freezing & thawing.
* Fertilize dormant plants with Hollytone or Plantone to help plantsa develop strong healthy root systems over the winter.
*Apply Scotts Turf Builder with Winterguard or Scotts Turf Builder plus 2 with Winterguard (if you have a weed issue) to your lawn to get a head start on a healthy green lawn next year. It’s the most important fertilization of the season.

10.19.07 - Still Safe to Plant? 
Recently, a number of people have asked me if it is still safe to plant & if perennials can be divided. Yes, it is still safe to plant or transplant perennials, shrubs & trees however I would offer a few points of caution. In the late fall we have a tendency to stop watering when temperatures are cooler however with newly transplanted plants it is important to keep the root ball moist during dry spells. Check the soil frequently & water deeply as needed. Secondly, when transplanting perennials be sure to get a good size clump, of soil with it (at least 6” in diameter). This will prevent plants from heaving with frequent freezing & thawing.  Cover the soil around newly transplanted plants with mulch to protect roots & hold moisture. Fertilize with Plantone by Espoma after plants are dormant to help build a strong root system during the winter & reapply in early spring to encourage new growth. If you have questions about dividing existing perennials stop in & talk with Laura Kaufman or other staff members & they’ll give you a few more tips.

If you have shifted your gardening interests indoors consider Blooming Cyclamen to brighten up your surroundings. They are one of my favorites because their lovely delicate blooms are long lasting & continue to bloom for several months. They are easy to grow however it is important to keep the soil evenly moist & they appreciate a cool location. We have a good selection of cyclamen in a small table top size or a larger size for more impact. Use them alone or place in a decorative container with ferns & ivy for a pretty table top garden arrangement.

10.12.07 - Hello from South Carolina, I am attending a gardening conference!
Hello from Columbia, South Carolina where I am attending a conference & tour with garden center owners & managers from accross the United States. One of the speakers today was Connie Goldman, co-author of the book Tending the Earth, Mending the Spirit . A former member of National Public Radio in Washington D.C., she is currently a writer & speaker sharing her experiences & insights from interviewing aging gardeners about why gardening is important to them. It was a great reminder of why digging in the dirt & the act of gardening helps many people to find comfort, peace, inspiration & solitude in a hectic world. Furthermore, she said she was facinated by the fact that every gardener enjoys gardening for different reasons however everyone that she interviewed took pleasure in seeing plants grow. Many people from the audience shared heart tugging stories on how gardening & gardeners touched their lives. I would like to thank each of you as you read this for touching our lives & sharing in the wonderful world of gardening!

As we head into the final weeks of October temperatures have begun dropping, leaves are falling, & there is still time to enjoy gardening so here are a few ideas for your gardening to-do list.
*Clean up & dispose of the remains of diseased perennials & roses after the leaves die. This will aid in preventing any disease issues next Spring.
*Plant spring bulbs(tulips, daffodils, hyacinth, & crocus) now for a beautiful display in the spring. They require cold temperatures to develop their buds so they must be planted in the fall. You'll be glad you did when that first sunny daffodil arrives on an early spring day!  We have a great selection so stop in & let us tellyou more!
*Late season fertilization of lawns, perennials, & shrubs to give plants a boost for next spring. Wait until late October or early November when plants are dormant & fertilize with Plantone for perennials & shrubs & Hollytone for acid loving evergreens & more.

10.5.07 - Here are some helpful tips for planting bulbs...
Have you been thinking about planting tulip & daffodil bulbs or possibly you would like to force bulbs for a holiday display. Either way, now is a great time to make selections. In our society of instant everything it is hard to get excited about planting something that you are not going to see until next spring however I am always so happy to see their bright blooms in spring after the long winter. I have listed a few tips to get you started:

Tulips, hyacinths & daffodils require 8-12 weeks of cold temperatures for bud development so if you wish to have pots of them for the holidays you will want to get started now. Pot them up in pots using potting soil, moisten soil & let them drain,  then place them in the refrigerator & cover to keep them in darkness. Ifspace in your refrigerator is a problem you can bring them out & keep them in an unheated garage after temperatures drop later this fall. Keep soil moist & water them as needed. A few weeks before you want to display them bring them out & place them in a bright window & continue watering them as needed. They will grow & bloom beautifully! (You can plant amaryllis & paperwhites a little later & still enjoy them as they do not need the cold treatment to bloom.)

If you are planting bulbs in beds outside it is best to plant them in mass or clumps of several bulbs rather then singly so they have more impact.

Consider bloom time (listed on label) to plan for continuous color in your garden. Many varieties of tulips bloom at different times so with careful planning you can extend the blooming season. For example you can plant Crocus which bloom very early, Daffodiuls which bloom early to mid season & late blooming tulips for an extended season of blooms.

Spray bulbs with Deer-Off or other repellant a few hours before planting to avoid squirrels or other animals from digging them. Allow them to dry before planting them. You might also consider planting frittilaria bulbs which bloom with orange or yellow flowers in late spring and they actually smell like a skunk. The odor is not noticeable to humans when planted however the odor deters other animals.

Stop in & our knowledgeable staff will answer your questions & guide you with all of your landscape & gardening projects!!!

9.28.07 - Cool temperatures are coming, it's time to bring your potted plants inside...
This past week I noticed that leaves are beginning to change & drop which reminded me of the importance of considering fall color & winter interest in the landscape. One plant you might consider is Coral Tower Japanese Maple (Acer ‘palmatum’ Sango Kaku) which is a tree that provides wonderful fall & winter interest growing 25’ tall & 22’ wide when fully developed. The bright green foliage with red stems turn a beautiful shade of gold & then the bark is coral red in the winter providing a striking contrast at a time when the landscape is quiet & dull.

As cooler temperatures approach, it is time to think about bringing houseplants & patio plants like hibiscus & gardenia trees indoors before it is too cold for their survival. With a little bit of planning this can be a smooth transition & your plants will thrive. First, spray plants with an all purpose insect spray that is labeled for houseplants & move plants from full sun areas to a shady area so they can become accustomed to lower light before they go inside. Trim them if needed, but not a lot because plants will be going into a semi-dormant state & will not be growing due to shorter daylight hours in winter. Wait about a 7-10 days if temperatures allow & then spray them one more time then move plants indoors after they dry. It is best to keep plants in bright light indoors in front of a window when possible. If your home is dark or you do not have a location near a window you can use an artificial grow light bulb to supplement. When indoors use houseplant fertilizer at half strength according to directions to keep them green & healthy. It is normal for plants to shed a few leaves as they adapt to their new environment. Unless plants are extremely root bound it is better to transplant them in the early spring when the days are getting longer & plants are growing at a more rapid rate so they settle in & get new roots quicker.

9.21.07 - Keep watering...keep watering...keep watering!
Keep watering…Keep watering…keep watering! That is my main message for the week. We have been experiencing a beautiful fall with many warm sunny days so we need to keep watering annuals, mums & new plantings to keep them thriving. It may seem like the end of the season to you but it is important because plants will be stronger & healthier as they head into the winter months.

If you are thinking of planting a new landscape or just replacing a few perennials & shrubs I thought I would tell you about a few new arrivals you might want to consider. Pyramidal Boxwood – this beautiful evergreen is conical shaped & bright green & will provide structure for the landscape. Honey Maid Holly is an evergreen with variegated leaves that provides contrast & has dark red berries. Sedum ‘Likadense’ has beautiful grayish green foliage with bright pink flowers. They bloom in fall & grow in full sun and they are especially beautiful planted with Gaura ‘Siskiyou Pink’ otherwise known as whirling butterflies.

9.14.07 - Preparing for crisp cool mornings & glorious fall colors!
This week we experienced the first cool day of fall which reminds us of the upcoming season including crisp cool mornings & glorious fall colors. Garden Mums are always a fall favorite with their rich hued blooms & they thrive in cooler temperatures. We are often asked if they are hardy & how to keep them from year to year so I am offering you a few tips. First, I might mention that Mums are usually hardy in this area but not always. Their hardiness can vary quite a bit from year to year depending on care & temperature fluctuations. Mums are beautiful in container plantings especially when combined with flowering Kale, Icicle pansies, & other perennials like Heuchera & Ajuga. However, they will not over-winter in a container. Be sure to keep mums well watered throughout the fall. Because the temperatures are cooler we often do not realize when mums need watering but be sure to check them several times per week. Regular watering will help them generate roots quicker which makes them hardier. In addition, when they have finished blooming you may cut the dead flowers off but leave the foliage even after the leaves are withered. Yoder Bros. the largest mum breeder in the world has studied this & have found them to be hardier & more likely to come back when the foliage was left on. The last tip is to cover the root area with straw or mulch in late fall (November) to insulate the roots & prevent excessive freezing & thawing during times of great temperature fluctuations.

If your lawn suffered during the dry heat of summer or you have a few bare spots that need to be filled, this is a good time for seeding your lawn or over-seeding bare spots so you can get it established while the weather is good. Observe the area you will be planting for sun or shade so you can be sure to choose the right grass seed for the area. Rake up dead grass & loosen the surface of the soil. Spread the seed & cover with straw or Grass Seed Accelerator. Grass Seed Accerator is small pellets made from recycled newspaper that expand to protect the seed when moistened & it includes a small charge of fertilizer. It is a great product for protecting the seed & aiding in germination & best of all it decomposes so you do not have to rake it up like straw. We have everything you need, so stop by & we’ll help you get started & answer any other questions you might have.

9.7.07 - Refresh your landscape with some new plants for the fall season!
Wow! We have had a beautiful week for gardening! I hope you have been able to get outside & enjoy it. Although summer is transitioning to fall I think it is a great time of year for picnics & gardening because temperatures usually moderate & the colors of fall are so beautiful! If your landscape is looking a little tired you can spruce them up by adding mums, asters & icicle pansies. I like to remove a few of the less desirable plants in my container gardens & then add a few new plants to freshen them up. Consider mixing a few perennials & an ornamental grass for interest along with mums, pansies & others! A few of my favorite perennials for this are Caryoptoris with beautiful blue spiky flowers, Autumn Joy Sedum adds interest with heavy leaves & robust flowers ,Cerotostigma ‘Plumbago’ with brilliant blue flowers & reddish foliage, Heuchera  adds nice texture with your choice of lime green, gold or red foliage just to mention a few!

The magic of Icicle Pansies…it’s not really magic but they are a very resilient & giving plant that enjoys cooler temperatures & blooms like crazy! Plant them in full to part sun in beds & watch them grow. They will bloom through the fall until the snow flies & then again next spring. We plant them in our beds by the store every fall along with tulip & daffodil bulbs. They look great even after the other flowers grown from bulbs are spent!!  It’s best to plant them as early as possible this fall to get their root system established before winter. You’ll be glad you did!!!

Speaking of tulips & daffodils…they have just arrived. You can get the best selection now; however it is best if you wait until after we have a killing frost to plant them. More on bulbs in the future…

8.31.07 - Create a Living Fence This Weekend!
Consider adding privacy & beauty to your property line with a living fence. The most common way to do this is with a hedge of Arborvitae known for their tall narrow shape & sustainability which can provide instant privacy and a green backdrop for the landscape. However, you can create a living fence with more interest when you plant a mixed border of deciduous & evergreen shrubs & possibly a few grasses or perennials for color & interest. If you have enough depth you can even plant them in tiers with taller plants in the back & shorter complimenting plants in the foreground. The key to the success of  of a living fence is proper spacing, using low maintenance plants & plants with a variety of interests including complimenting colors & textures.

A few plants you might consider are:

Holly provides beautiful dark green foliage that is evergreen & red berries in winter. They will tolerate partial shade.
Red Twig Dogwoods – growing around 6’ tall this plant provides interesting green & white variegated foliage & beautiful red stems in winter.
Forsythia – known for their brilliant yellow flowers in early spring this bush is extremely tough & easy to grow.   
Weigelia – available in many varieties from short to tall this plant is a summer bloomer with pretty trumpet shaped flowers.

This is is just a few of many. Whether you have sun or shade there is a great selection to choose from & you can take advantage of Fall Planting Sale savings. If you are not sure where to begin take a picture of the area & an estimated distance & we’ll help you make selections.

Autumn the resident Cat at Graf Growers,
is enjoying the Fall Planting Sale too!

8.24.07 - This is a Great Time to Plant Grass and Late Blooming Perennials..
I like to take a walk through my garden regularly & evaluate what is blooming & where color is needed as well as the structure of shrubs & trees at different seasons. I love late summer perennials blending with colorful annuals that are full & lush with blooms at the end of summer & have made changes to my garden to accomplish this. However, often when I visit landscapes in late summer the gardens are beautiful but many of the perennials have finished blooming & the design would benefit from the addition of late summer blooming perennials & the structure of shrubs & trees. I would encourage you to take a walk through your garden & evaluate what is working & where late season color spots or structure is needed. If you are not sure, bring a picture of the area & we’ll help you.
Listed below are a few of our favorites that you might want to try:
Caryoptoris – azure blue flowers are gorgeous & long lasting on this woody perennial.
Ceratostigma – low growing ground cover with bright blue flowers in late summer & foliage that turns red.
Autumn Joy Sedum & other sedum varieties – sturdy sun loving plants that look great long after the flowers are spent.
Itea & Burning Bush – provide brilliant red foliage in the fall
Cypress ‘Gold Mop’ - provides soft flowing lacy texture & a brilliant gold color in the landscape. Grows 3’ – 4’ tall & wide

One more time, I am repeating myself …It is a wonderful time of year to plant grass seed, perennials & shrubs so you can take advantage of cool nights & warm days to get plants established before winter. Laura Kaufman, perennial & nursery manager, along with Jacci Klein, Dave Weida, Scott Burdeshaw & many other staff members are here to help you get a head start on your landscape projects.  It really makes a difference in the end result when you start with a design or at least a bit of forethought. Bring pictures & or measurements in & we’ll help you make selections that will flourish in your landscape as well as provide helpful growing advise.  You will be so glad you did when you begin to enjoy the fruits of your labor early next spring!

8.17.07 - Relaxation and Rejuvenation For You and Your Landscape!
I just returned from a couple of days of rest & relaxation on the beaches of Lake Erie. I never realize how much I need a break until I let down for a few days, recharge my batteries so to speak & then I am anxious to tackle new projects, learn & grow. It is the same way with late summer landscapes. Take a few minutes to rejuvenate your landscape by cutting back leggy plants, removing spent blooms, treating for powdery mildew, pulling a few weeds etc. to keep your garden & landscape looking it’s best. Furthermore, provide a late season fertilization to give tired plants a boost. This will help refresh a tired landscape as annuals will bloom until we have a killing frost & roses love to bloom in the fall as well as many late blooming perennials. If you do this now, you should be able to enjoy your landscape into October.

8.10.07 - Recovering From the Rain and Thinking Ahead for Fall Landscaping...
After the rains…I have noticed many plants that were heavy in bloom lying over from the weight of the rain soaked flowers & stems. Often they will perk up & stand again once they dry out. If plants have damaged or have broken stems cut them back or if they are just floppy stems you can support them with plant stakes so you can enjoy them longer into the season.  If ornamental grasses are bent over tie them up with green garden twine into a bundle & let the grasses flow out & over from the top. You may need a few replacements to add color for the rest of summer. If so, we still have potted annuals as well as a new shipment of garden mums & perennials to freshen up the landscape. In addition, with the high humidity we have been experiencing plant disease can become more prevalent. Examine roses, phlox, monarda & other plants closely & treat if you see leaf spot or powdery mildew. We’ll help you find the right product when you stop in. Last but not least, make sure container garden pots or hanging baskets are not waterlogged. Sometimes in the late season the drainage holes can get clogged & they will fill up with water so it is best to check them & drain them if needed.

As the days get shorter & the beginning of the school year is just around the corner our thoughts turn to fall gardening projects. It is a wonderful time of year to plant grass seed, perennials & shrubs so you can take advantage of cool nights & warm days to get them established before winter. You will be so glad you did when you begin to enjoy the fruits of your labor early next spring! You can get a head start & begin landscape projects now. We have stocked up with fresh shrubs & perennials perfect for late summer planting. Bring pictures & or measurements in & we’ll help you make selections that will flourish in your landscape as well as provide helpful growing advise.  

8.3.07 - Add Drama and Movement to Your Landscape
Frequently, I like to talk about different design elements in the landscape like contrast & color combinations that provide more interest but today I want to talk about structure & movement as design elements. This is seldom addressed in design books that I have read but can add a lot of interest & provide a nice backdrop for colorful perennials & annuals. Structure in the landscape is most easily achieved with evergreen & deciduous shrubs. The structure of evergreens & conifer shrubs are most often obvious whether they are conical, or mounded, etc. & are often used in foundation plantings. You might consider adding deciduous shrubs to the landscape as well. Many deciduous shrubs bloom in the spring or summer as well as add winter interest with their branch structure. Choose the mounded shapes of spirea or barberry or the vase shape of Rose of Sharon & Weigelia. Furthermore, Itea & Burning Bush provide excellent fall color as their leaves change to brilliant red.  

Ornamental Grasses provide drama & movement in the landscape as well as color, texture & structure. This past week I was reminded of the importance of grasses & the visual interest they provide in the landscape. I visited a landscape where a large Miscanthus ‘Graccillimus’ with its flowing fountain like shape was the focal point of the front entrance. Along with structure & form they also provide movement as many varieties sway with the breeze. Most varieties of Ornamental Grasses are easy to grow in full sun & are available in many different forms from the very small Blue Fescue tufts to the very large & massive zebra grass. A newer variety worth mentioning is Miscanthus sinensis ‘Gold Bar’; a slow growing grass with a heavy concentration of gold bars & a very upright shape growing 3’ – 5’ at maturity. Stop in & let us help you select grasses or shrubs that would provide structure & interest in your landscape.

You can take advantage of summer savings this week on perennials, shrubs & trees & update your landscape. It is safe to plant in the summer however new plantings require frequent & thorough watering. I like to place my hose at the base of newly transplanted shrubs & let the water run slowly to soak the root ball for 10 – 15 minutes. If you use this method it will only need to be repeated 1 – 2 times per week.  Be sure to amend the soil & fertilize with Plantone by Espoma to get new transplants off to a good start.

7.27.07 - Look at Your Landscape in a New Way
This past week I spent a few days attending a watercolor painting workshop where the primary lesson was about the importance of contrast to add interest & keep your painting exciting for the viewer. Every day as we critiqued our paintings I kept thinking about how this same information applied to the landscape. Consider contrasting flower & foliage color & texture. A few well placed dark foliaged plants like heuchera, sedum purple emperor, red Japanese maples or barberry will make all the other plants appear brighter & more noticeable. If you place them next to light green or lime foliage of a complimenting plant like a Hosta ‘gold standard’ or Chamaecyparis ‘Gold Mound’ the contrast will be greater creating an eye catching spot in the landscape. Or consider the contrast of silver gray foliage with red or green foliage for a different contrast. The same principals may be applied when planning or updating a perennial garden when you add a few evergreen shrubs to the design to add contrast to the structure of the overall landscape. I encourage you to look at your landscape with new eyes & look for a few spots you might add contrasting plants to create more interest.

We have switched gears this week for a very dry summer to more moist humid weather which can be a time when many summer diseases become more prevalent. Examine plants more carefully for the start of powdery mildew & leaf spot or black spot which look just like their names. Some plants are more prone to these diseases that others but if you spot them early it will be easier to treat them with a fungicide so you experience less damage to the plant. If you are not sure how to treat them bring a few leaf samples into the garden center & we will help.  

7.20.07 - Lots of Rain and Annual Floriculture Show
There is nothing like a good rain to green up the grass & soak deep root balls. The forecast is perfect this weekend for planting & working in your garden. Whether you need to fill in a few spots or you are planting a new area, we can help. It is safe to plant in summer however, it is critical that you are committed to keeping new landscape plants well watered.

Prepare now to keep your garden looking its best into early fall by giving plants a mid summer boost with an application of Flowertone or Miracle Gro fertilizer.  Remove spent blooms from perennials & cut back spindly annuals & hanging baskets to freshen them up. They will look a little sad when you first cut them but they will fill out & look good in a few weeks & then look great through early fall.

This past week several of us attended an annual floriculture show in Columbus for training & to keep up to date with the industry. The show features new plant introductions as well as new growing techniques & equipment. It is amazing to see over 10,000 people from all over the world convene in Columbus Ohio to share & learn about floriculture and to see all of the different facets of the industry including plant breeders, research scientists, growers, marketers & flower peddlers like ourselves. I was reminded of the complexities of the industry when a prominent grower from California said “and everybody thinks we put a stick in the ground & it grows”. Gardening is so much easier & rewarding today because of research & plant breeding. Ornamental plants are being bred to bloom better & longer, to resist disease & insects, to branch better, etc. I will be sharing more ideas from the show in future additions. 

Pictured are staff members Tom Kriska & Laura Kaufman, chatting about a new plant variety.

7.13.07 - Season Long Color and Insect Problems
I was speaking with a guest today & she mentioned that her garden is breathtaking today with daisies & coneflowers all in bloom however she is having a late summer party & was concerned that she would not have any color in her garden then. This prompted my writing today because with careful planning you can have color or foliage interest all season long. Now is a good time to view plantings & to make selections of perennials at the garden center because many perennials are in peak bloom & you can see their colors & growth habits. In addition, consider planning ahead & planting a few perennials that bloom in late summer like Caryoptoris which have beautiful blue fuzzy flowers & grow 3’ tall on sturdy stems, or Anenomes which have airy blooms in pink or white & Sedum ‘Autumn Joy’ which adds structure to the perennial bed with thick leaves & sturdy stems. We have a great selection & are bringing in fresh perennials each week. Stop in & let us show you all these & more.

Go away Beetles…Japanese beetles that is. This week we are seeing a lot of Japanes Beetle damage as they are eating holes in leaves everywhere. You can control them with a product called Eight by Bonide or a product named Sevin  by Gardentech. Either one is very effective. If you wish an organic alternative consider Japanese Beetle Traps or Rotenone by Bonide.

7.6.07 - Watering, Watering and more Watering...
We have been experiencing a dry spell & the lack of rain is causing grass to become dormant & brown & landscape plants & annuals that are not deeply rooted are wilting. I have put together a few hints on watering to keep your landscape looking fresh.

Flowering Hanging Baskets & Container Gardens – check the soil daily & water thoroughly when needed. One of the easiest ways to determine if hanging baskets are dry is by the weight of the basket. If they are light weight then water them thoroughly. After watering lift it to check the weight again to make sure they are heavy. The reason I mention this is often when the soil is very dry the water will flush through & will not be absorbed by the soil. For container gardens, feel the soil with your fingers to check for moisture. If you are watering frequently the plants will require more nutrients so keep up with applications of Miracle Gro or Miracle Gro Bloom Booster to keep your plants looking fresh & healthy.

Lawns – If your lawn is suffering from lack of water it will transition into a semi dormant state looking brown & dingy until it rains again. If you want to keep it green & lush it is best to put down about 1” of water per week in the early morning if possible. This is better than watering lightly everyday because it encourages the roots of the grass plants to grow deeper into the soil where it will not dry out as fast thus keeping your lawn looking greener longer. You can also apply a summer application of a slow release fertilizer however we recommend that you avoid doing this when temperatures reach 90 degrees F. If you can’t water your lawn it will green up as soon as we get some significant rainfall.

Landscape Plants – Be sure to soak the root ball of newly transplanted shrubs, trees, & perennials by putting your hose near the base of the plant & letting it run slowly for a period of time (approx. 15 minutes but depends on water pressure & type of plant. This way you should only have to water a few times per week but not every day. More established plants that are wilting can be watered in the same way but usually 1 time per week is sufficient. There are a few exceptions. For example: It took my hydrangeas 3 seasons to get completely rooted in so they didn’t wilt on a daily basis during dry times. I had to water them using my hose at the base of the plant nearly every other day when it was hot & dry, so observe your plants & make adjustments as needed.

Tomato Plants & other Vegetable Plants – It is best to keep vegetable plants evenly moist, especially tomatoes. Tomato plants that experience a great fluctuation in dry & wet conditions are prone to blossom end rot which is black legions on the base of fruit usually appearing on the first tomatoes to ripen. You can avoid this by keeping plants evenly moist. This allows the plant to absorb calcium & other nutrients efficiently so tomatoes ripen unharmed.

6.29.07 - Weekend Forecast
The forecast is great for summer planting this weekend! There is still time to plant a new landscape or just a few replacements or if you went on the garden tour last week you may have been inspired to make a few changes in your landscape. Either way, the key to successful summer planting is to keep the plant well watered especially concentrating on soaking the original root ball. I think it is the best time of year to plant a perennial garden because you can see the blooms of many of the plants & will be able to choose the colors & textures more accurately. Bring a picture of your project & measurements if you can & we’ll help you make selections that compliment your home & thrive in your conditions.

Plant Di sease & Insect Problems?
This is the time of year when we see a good number of plant disease & insect issues.  This past week we have seen a lot of powdery mildew & Japanese beetles. The high humidity will cause powdery mildew fungal spores to proliferate, damaging foliage & weakening plant health. Observe your landscape plants for a white powdery looking substance on the upper leaves. It is commonly seen on roses. If you are unsure bring in a sample. It is best to treat it with a fungicide & we will make a recommendation based on the type of plant you are treating.  Japanese Beetles & other types of beetles will chew holes in the leaves of your plants. You can pick off the beetles & destroy them or you can treat plants with Sevin which comes as a spray or a dust or a product named Eight which also is available as a spray or dust for easy application. If you wish to treat Japanese Beetles organically you can use Rotenone which is available in a dust form only. As always when making applications follow the directions on the label carefully.

6.22.07 - Perennial Secrets
If you missed the perennial seminar last Friday there is still time to sign up for the seminar on June 30^th with Bobbie Schwartz of Bobbie’s Green Thumb. If you are interested in perennial gardening you will not want to miss an opportunity to hear her. Her perennial knowledge is incredible & her enthusiasm for perennial gardening is contagious. You will learn form her first hand experience. Cost is $15. & pre-registration is preferred.

I thought I would share a few tips from last Saturdays seminar presented by Laura Kaufman, perennial & nursery manager at Graf Growers. Laura said she chooses perennials for their multi season interest or unique characteristics. In addition, due to time constraints she likes perennials that are tough & do not require excessive nurturing. I have listed a few of the varieties that she mentioned for your consideration.

Lychnis Coronaria (Rose Campion) – This plant has bright magenta-pink flowers with silver foliage is easy to grow in the sun & fairly drought tolerant. Even after flowers have faded the silvery foliage color adds interest in a perennial border. This plant brings back memories for me as I remember picking the pretty blossoms as a child.

Chelone (Turtlehead) this little known native perennial grows well in heavy or partial shade. It has dark green leaves & bright pink flowers in late summer through fall. It is a tough low maintenance perennial that fills out the garden without being invasive.

Reblooming Daylilies – most everyone is familiar or has at least seen the bright gold blooms of Stella D’Oro Daylies that are so well known because they keep blooming but there are a few other varieties that keep blooming for your consideration. ‘Happy Returns’ has bright lemon yellow flowers & grows 24” tall. ‘Rosy Returns’ is a rosy plum color & ‘Pardon Me’ is dark brick red with a yellow throat & it looks great planted behind Stella D’Oro because it is slightly taller. All of the daylilies listed will rebloom when spent blooms are removed.

Yesterday I was speaking with a guest & she mentioned that she belongs to a garden club where they visit each others garden & help one another. This prompted me to mention the value of garden clubs & garden tours. Tomorrow I will be touring local gardens on the Master Gardener’s Tour of Gardens. (Tickets are still available until the close of business today.) In addition, I have spoken to hundreds of garden clubs over the last 20 years. Every time I participate in a seminar, tour, or garden club I learn something new. There is so much value in sharing experiences & favorite plants with others. Whether you are a seasoned gardener or just learning I encourage you to participate in tours, seminars or garden clubs & enjoy sharing!

6.15.07 - Summer Flower Care
You’ll want to keep your plants looking their best all summer so I have put together a list of tips.
Deadheading – Remove spent blooms on annuals & perennials to keep them blooming longer & more prolifically. This is not necessary for all blooming plants but many of them benefit from regular deadheading. For example; expired geranium flowers shatter & their petals fall all over the plant which causes the leaves to get spots where the petal was on the leaf. In addition, deadheading promotes more blooms especially with perennials & roses.

Pinching & Pruning – If annual plants begin to look a bit stretched with weak stems & straggly looking plants it is best to sacrifice a few blooms & cut them back. Use your fingers or a garden shears to cut them. This is especially so for hanging baskets & container plants. After you cut them, fertilize with Miracle Gro Bloom Booster & they will grow & bloom faster.

Watering & fertilizing – regular watering & fertilizing make a big difference in the health of a plant. Try to avoid plants becoming wilted over & over as this weakens the plant over time. It is difficult to explain watering practices but I suggest that you soak the plants thoroughly when you water & then wait for them to be dry to the touch before you water again. On really hot days you should check them daily. One way to tell if hanging baskets need watering is to check the weight of them; if they are light they need water & if they are heavy they most likely are still moist. Follow the directions on the fertilizer that you are using to determine how often it should be applied. If you are using a time released fertilizer like Osmocote or something similar you can still give plants a mid summer boost about once a month with Miracle Gro or Miracle Gro Bloom Booster. If you are going out of town pick up ‘GelSpike Mini’s’ which are little bottles of a water filled gel with a spike that goes into the soil that provides a time released vacation watering system. This should help them make it through hot summer days.

I said it last week but it is worth repeating. It’s not too late for spring planting …Perhaps you haven’t had time to plant this spring or you would like to create a new landscape bed either way you can keep planting all summer. The key to successful summer planting is to keep up with regular watering especially soaking the original root ball until the plant is established.  We have a good selection of flowering annuals fresh from the greenhouse. In addition, we have stocked up with fresh perennials & shrubs. You’ll be amazed at the selection & quality.  We’ll help you make selections that will thrive in your landscape so keep planting & enjoy your landscape all summer!!!

6.8.07 - It's Not too Late to Plant...
Perhaps you haven’t had time to plant this spring or you would like to create a new landscape bed either way you can keep planting all summer. The key to successful summer planting is to keep up with regular watering especially soaking the original root ball until the plant is established.  I took a walk through the greenhouses this week & there is a great selection of flowering annuals & vegetable plants that are fresh & not overgrown. In addition, we have stocked up with fresh perennials & shrubs. You’ll be amazed at the selection & quality.  We’ll help you make selections that will thrive in your landscape so keep planting & enjoy your landscape all summer!!!

Pesky Aphids…this year we are seeing a lot of plant samples with aphids. This insect is generally seen clustered on the stems & near the buds. They are small oval shaped & green (similar to the shade of plant stems) or black & they leave a sticky excretion on plants. They will not harm plants immediately however the health of the plant will decline over time causing distorted leaves & sooty mold which forms on the sticky parts. It is best if it is treated as soon as you see it & we recommend that you spray plants according to the directions with a product named Eight by Bonide. (Remember to spray early in the morning or in the evening when the air is still & the sun is less intense.)

6.1.07 - Keep Watering!
With the temperatures in the high 80’s this week recently transplanted plants need regular watering.

Hydrangeas – this week we are featuring all of the hydrangeas including ‘Endless Summer’ for $5. off regular price so I thought I would tell you a little bit about a few varieties. Traditionally, Hydrangea blooms were formed on either the old or new stems of the plant. One of my favorite older varieties is ‘Annabelle’ which can be cut down each year in in the fall. New growth appears in the spring followed by pale green flowers on new stems in mid June lasting until late fall. Furthermore, now there are 2 varieties that offer blooms all season long on both new & old stems. They are a beautiful blue variety named “Endless Summer’ & a pale pink variety that fades to white named ‘Blushing Bride’. Both are beautiful low maintenance shrubs that provide season long color. To enhance the blue color of ‘Endless summer’ & other blue hydrangea varieties start adding acid to the soil by appling HydraBlue. (available at Graf Growers) Hydrangeas thrive best in part shade or morning sun.

5.25.07 - All you need to do is water!
All you need to do is water! Watering is a very important part of getting plants established and since we have had hot sunny weather this week it is even more important. When planting perennials, shrubs & trees concentrate water near the roots of the plant until plants are established. It is best on shrubs & trees to place the hose near the base of the plant & let the water run slowly for 15 – 20 minutes to really soak the root ball. This can be done once or twice a week depending on the plant needs & soil conditions. For annuals, hanging baskets & containers these will need to be watered frequently especially right after they have been planted.  With hot sunny days it is best to check the soil for watering needs every day. Once again, it is best to soak the soil thoroughly when watering. A little trick to help you determine if hanging baskets need watering is to lift them. If they are dry they will be very light & if they are heavy they most likely are still wet but touch the soil to be sure.  Miracle Bloom Booster  can be applied every 7-14 days as part of your watering routine to keep them healthy & lush with blooms. (Adjust this recommendation to less frequent applications if you have applied Osmocote or other fertilizer.)

5.18.07 - Plant Combinations & Weather Watch
Plant Combinations
When designing a landscape one of my favorite things to think about is choosing plant combinations that compliment one another both in growth habits as well as visually. Whether you are choosing plants for a container garden or designing an entire landscape there are a few things to think about for a more desirable outcome. First & foremost you want to choose the right plants for the location. For example, plant sun loving plants with similar watering needs together. Then begin thinking about the foliage & flower color, bloom times, plant shapes & textures needed to get the desired effect. Choose plants with contrasting foliage for an eye-catching grouping or for a more subtle area choose similar shades of the same hue.  It is very common & striking to use plants with gold & burgundy foliage together however gold foliage can offer a more subtle contrast when combined with blue green foliage like a Globe Blue Spruce & Gold Mound Spirea. For a soft & delicate combination in the shade combine the soft blue green foliage of Lamium with the ever blooming bleeding heart Dicentra ‘Luxuriant which has delicate pink flowers or for a more bold statement in a shade or part shade area use the  brilliant Heuchera ‘Key Lime Pie’ which has beautiful green – gold foliage.  Pennisetum ‘Rubrum’ a deep burgundy annual grass is often combined with lime sweet potato vine & others however it is also beautiful & more subtle when planted with tall (36”) Verbeana ‘Bournariensis’ with airy lavender flowers & a soft pink annual in front. Bloom times & extending the season with foliage & flower interest is another consideration. For example planting peonies with perennial geraniums extends the blooming time or plant lilies between alchimillia mollis which has gorgeous blue green foliage which is a great host for a mid summer surprise of lily blossoms. I could go on & on but it will be a lot more fun if you come in & discover combinations for yourself. Hopefully, I have inspired you to look at your garden with new eyes!!!

Weather Watch
We are expecting cooler night time temperatures this weekend so watch the weather reports & cover tender annuals if temperatures drop below 40 degrees F. It is best to cover with old bed sheets or newspaper rather than plastic & create a tent over plants so frost does not penetrate cover. It is also helpful if you make sure the soil is moist because plants are more tolerant of the cool weather if they are well watered.

5.11.07 - Yes, it's safe to plant - to an extent...

Is it safe to plant? This continues to be the question of the week. It is a great time to plant perennials, shrubs & trees & some cool tolerant annuals like pansies, snapdragons, petunias & others. If you want to get started planting other annuals watch weather reports & cover them with a sheet if temperatures drop below 40 degrees F. We recommend starting with container gardening or planting in protected areas first so you can cover them easily if needed.

5.4.07 - Is it safe to plant?

This is the question of the week. It is a great time to plant perennials, shrubs & trees & some cool tolerant annuals like pansies, snapdragons, petunias & others. If you want to get started planting other annuals watch weather reports & cover them with a sheet if temperatures drop below 40 degrees F. We recommend starting with container gardening or planting in protected areas first so you can cover them easily if needed.