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Tuesday, April 28, 2015

April 21, 2015, Kim’s Weekly Garden Newsletter

April 28, 2015, Kim’s Weekly Garden Newsletter    © Kim Willis

Hello Gardeners

Magnolia
It was nice to see the sun today.  The week ahead looks pretty good for gardening or other things.  We are a little on the dry side for spring.  I may have to water the garden to get things growing.  My peas are just starting to sprout, they may need more moisture.  Lettuce and spinach are up and growing however.

Forsythia is in bloom in some places.  Mine isn’t blooming except at the bottom where some branches were protected by snow.  I hope that doesn’t mean I’ll have no redbud or lilacs flowers a bit later.  I have pansies, violas, tulips, hyacinths, and daffodils in bloom outside.  Dandelions are beginning to bloom as well as hens bit in the lawn.  The grass will need mowing soon.

Inside I have hibiscus, abutilon, streptocarpus, geraniums, and peace lily in bloom. My windowsills are crowded with plants and I have begun to move some of the hardier things I was overwintering outside.  My rosemary went outside, as well as a big pot of rain lilies.  This weekend as we near the 70 degree mark I will be moving some more things outside like the mum I overwintered, some geraniums and the chocolate vines – if I can untangle them from the other houseplants.  

My honeyberries are blooming nicely and I hope there are enough pollinators around to get some fruit from them this year. MSU says that it’s been a hard winter again for fruit trees and some flower buds may have been killed this winter as well as damage to tree branches.  My apricot tree is showing pink on the buds so it wasn’t a casualty but my peach tree looks really shriveled.  I can’t tell about the apples and pears.  We had very few apples last year so I was hoping for a good crop this year.

I learned something I suspected this week.  I was sitting down for a break when I noticed one of my hens perusing the flower bed I was cleaning up and each white tag that was left in the bed on various plants she pulled up and tossed.  That’s why all the labels on the new bulbs I planted last year just disappeared.  I noticed that one plant had a yellow label and that one she ignored.  White labels just caught her eye.  Another reason not to have chickens in the garden!

What to plant now

Peas, lettuce, onions and onion sets, carrots, beets, spinach, radishes, cabbage seeds or plants, broccoli, turnips, can all be planted now.  Strawberries, raspberries, blueberries and all fruit trees can be planted. Calendula seeds, and most seed for perennial plants can be direct sown in the spot where they are to grow now.  All types of trees can be planted now and it’s a good time to seed lawns.

Some hardy perennial plants can be planted outside, be cautious about those that look pretty well leafed out or are even in bloom.  Frost that we will still get this year can really damage those plants or even kill them, even if the plant is normally hardy in our planting zone. If you do plant large or blooming perennials out in the garden cover them if frost is predicted.  It is fine to plant dormant perennials or roses outside now.  Wait a bit to plant summer bulbs like dahlias, cannas and glads cold soil can make them rot.  You can get them started inside now for earlier bloom. Also it’s still not time to plant annuals, with the exception of violas, pansies and maybe diascia, outside.

Garden tips

Save those clear tops to deli cakes, roasted chickens, cheese and meat trays, and other foods.  Wash them well with hot water and soap.  Then use them to protect plants in the garden from frost or cover seeded areas like a mini- greenhouse.  Take them off when the days are sunny and warm so you don’t cook the plants. 

Milk jugs and 2 liter pop bottles can also be used for frost protection.  Wash them out and remove the bottoms.  Place over any plants that need protection. Leave the caps off for ventilation.

Take the tags off trees and shrubs before planting them.  If you leave them on they can girdle a branch or worse the trunk. This can kill the branch or the entire plant.  If you want to keep the tag attach it to a stake next to the plant.

Large pots don’t always have to be filled entirely with potting mix. Containers full of potting soil can be very heavy and potting mix is expensive. Most annuals need only 8-10 inches of soil at the most. If the pot is deeper than that consider filler at the bottom of the container to take up space.  You can use pieces of Styrofoam, plastic water or iced tea bottles either crushed or whole, crushed aluminum cans, charcoal briquettes, wood chips, cocoa mulch, crumbled burlap, crumbled brown paper bags, even torn up cardboard on the bottom of the container. Put a few pieces of newspaper over the filler and then add your potting soil.

If you have a cocoa fiber lined basket that you like to plant in but find that it dries out way too fast try this.  Remove the plastic liner from a diaper or two and soak the remaining fiber material and gel filler in water.  Then line the basket on the inside with the soaked diaper material, stopping just below where the surface of the potting mix will be.  The diaper material will hold water and make watering your hanging basket less of a chore.  The diaper material is harmless to plants.  It can also be mixed with potting soil – about 2 cups in a 8-10

New spray paints for plastics can be used to spray those black nursery pots you can’t bear to throw out and turn them into colorful planting containers.  You can even use a stencil on them if you like to really make them unique.  You can also spray paint plastic containers from coffee, laundry detergent, and other things to create interesting containers.  These plastic paints will also stick to rubber and you can make a stack of tires into a colorful planter.  Why spend a lot of money on new pots? 

Buy cheap butterfly nets when you see them.  Remove the handles and place the net portion over young cabbage plants. This keeps the white moths that lay eggs that turn into those nasty green worms away from them.  The nets can be re-used for several years.  You can also buy fine netting in fabric stores.  Cut squares big enough to fit loosely over cabbage plants, gather them around the cabbage stem and secure with a twist tie.

Mosquitoes do like some people better

If you have ever wondered why mosquitoes seem to like you better than other people or have heard people complaining about being bitten by mosquitoes when they are leaving you alone, blame it on genetics.  Research has now confirmed that some people have a genetic component that makes their body smell more attractive to mosquitoes.  Researchers used identical twins and had mosquitoes in tubes bite their arms- (what a job)-as well as random people who were not twins.  They rated how attractive the person was to mosquitoes.  Some people attracted more attention from mosquitoes than others, but identical twins always attracted mosquitoes in the exactly the same way.

The research has narrowed down body odors as the attraction signal but the odors that attract mosquitoes aren’t noticed by humans.  They have ruled out foods as the cause of these mosquito attractive scents despite old wives tales of eating foods like garlic to repel mosquitoes.  The researchers believe that some people have genes that produce a natural mosquito repelling smell, which gives them some protection from mosquito bites.  They also found that pregnant women attract more mosquitoes than women who aren’t pregnant and that the heavier you are, the more mosquitoes you attract. The research was a joint project of the University of Nottingham, Rothamsted Research and the University of Florida.

Bees addicted to neonicotinoids

Maximilian sunflower with bee.
It’s been well documented that bees are harmed by neonicotinoid pesticides.  These pesticides are being used on crops and ornamentals around the globe and are thought to be part of the cause of pollinator decline.  Neonicotinoid pesticides were developed starting in the 1970’s and many types of them are now on the market, with Bayer being the primary producer of the chemicals.  They are synthetic twins of the chemical nicotine, found in tobacco, which is still used as a pesticide by some folks unaware of how dangerous that is. The most common neonicotinoid pesticide is probably imidicloprid, which was touted as being quite safe for animals while deadly to insects.

Researchers at Newcastle University and Trinity College Dublin (UK) found that while bees can’t taste the pesticide in the nectar of flowers they do prefer nectar that has the pesticide in it.  Just as people become addicted to smoking by the nicotine in cigarettes, bees become addicted to neonicotinoids and prefer flowers from plants which have been treated with neonicotinoids, leading to a greater exposure to the pesticides harmful effects. 


Just as it’s very hard to break a nicotine habit in humans, bees can’t easily be motivated to ignore pesticide treated plants.  Once bees find the flowers whose nectar is tainted by neonicotinoids they can’t be lured away by native flower plantings or garden flowers which are free of the chemicals. 

Because other animals besides humans, such as monkeys and dogs, can also become addicted to nicotine it brings up several questions.  Do neonicotinoid treated plants cause other animals such as rabbits to be attracted/addicted to them?  If birds eat worms or insects that have ingested neonicotinoid pesticides from all those treated lawns do they get addicted and eat greater quantities of those foods- leading to a bigger build-up of pesticides in their bodies?   Do people eating food crops treated with neonicotinoids become addicted to them?

European countries have, for the most part, banned neonicotinoid pesticides.  Until we learn more about how these pesticides affect the whole life cycle instead of just their toxicity level to humans and pets, we also need to stop using these pesticides.


The beautiful Redbud tree

There is nothing more gorgeous in spring than the graceful branches of the Redbud tree outlined in glowing magenta pink flowers. The Redbud is a small tree, suitable for even the most compact yards, proving that good things can come in small packages. Redbuds provide spring color, summer shade and fall color too. The Eastern Redbud tree, Cercis Canadensis, is native to the eastern United States and may also be seen blooming in the woodlands in the spring. There are also redbud trees native to the Western North America, China and southern Europe and Asia. The common name ‘Judas tree’ comes from the belief that Judas hung himself from a mid-eastern redbud tree after betraying Christ.

The redbud tree’s pea-like flowers pop out in early spring all along its branches and even along the trunk as the tree ages. Redbud trees bloom before the leaves appear which makes the flowers even more visible. The leaves are heart shaped and turn golden in the fall. Redbud flowers turn into large brown pods, which contain 4-10 bean- like seeds. The trees are rarely more than 25’ high and about as wide.

Redbud trees are used in the landscape as specimen trees or as shade tree for small spaces. They are also used in naturalized woodlands. The flowers of the redbud are edible and can be used in salads. Birds and other wildlife eat redbud seeds.

Growing redbuds
Redbuds are hardy from zone 5 to 8. They need some cold weather to form flower buds, but in the northern parts of zone 5, they should probably be planted in a protected area for the best bloom. Although the redbud will tolerate partial shade it blooms best in sunny locations, particularly in the north. Redbuds tolerate a wide range of soil conditions as long as the area is well drained; they will not grow in wet areas. Redbud trees are excellent for naturalized settings, at the edge of woodlands. They are beautiful against a background of dark evergreens.
Redbud flowers.

The temptation for homeowners who see a redbud in bloom is to buy a large tree so they can enjoy the bloom sooner in their own yard. But small potted redbud trees are the easiest to establish and spring dormant planting is best. Trees grown from seed or cuttings of redbud trees growing in your area will adjust to your site more readily.

Redbud trees form a taproot and resent transplanting, so choose the location where you plant your redbud carefully. A tree shelter or tube helps redbud trees adapt to their new home and protects them from hungry animals. Redbuds usually begin to bloom in their 7th year if conditions are to their liking. Redbuds can also be started from seed planted in the fall where they are to grow or in pots outside. Although establishment may be slower than some other trees, and a little more care is required to get the redbud tree off to a good start, they are well worth the trouble.

The redbud tree often begins growing with a short trunk and many small upward growing stems. Trimming off all but one center stem will make the redbud look more like a tree, and will avoid the problem of narrow crotches that split from winds or ice. Other than early shaping of the tree and trimming off crossed or rubbing branches, the redbud will not need pruning.

Canker and verticillium wilt are the most important diseases of the redbud tree. Cankers begin as dark sunken areas along the stems, and the area of limb beyond the canker will wilt and die. Canker areas should be pruned out, go at least one inch beyond the canker toward the trunk to make your cut and burn the pruned branch. Sterilize your pruning shears between each cut. Verticillium causes parts of the tree to suddenly wilt, or some branches may have leaves that turn yellow on the edges and then brown and die. There is no cure for verticillium but pruning off affected branches and fertilizing the tree may keep it alive for a few more years. Have the tree diagnosed by an expert before assuming it has verticillium wilt and removing it. Do not replant redbud trees where one has died from verticillium wilt as the disease remains in the soil for years.

Some varieties of Redbud
The redbud ‘Forest Pansy’ has purple leaves and rosy purple flowers. The variety ‘Alba’has white flowers. Redbud ’Rubye Atkinson’ has flowers that are a gentle pink. ‘Silver Cloud’ has leaves variegated with white. ‘Hearts of Gold’ has golden leaves and pink flowers. ‘Covey’ is a redbud with weeping branches. ’Avondale’ is a double flowered Chinese redbud that grows more like a shrub. Hard to find Chinese redbud Cercis racemosa or Chain Flowered Redbud, has flowers of silvery rose that hang from the branches in long chains. Some of these are less hardy than the common Eastern Redbud.

How to start a vegetable garden this spring- quick primer

Starting a vegetable garden is a way to save on food costs while providing your family with food that not only tastes better, but is much more nutritious than food that is shipped long distances.  You get the benefit of fresh air and exercise too.  Even if the garden doesn’t save you a lot of money on fresh produce you have the satisfaction of knowing you grew the food your family is eating and you controlled how the food was produced.

Should you go organic?
Part of the value of starting vegetable gardens at home instead of purchasing produce is so that you can control what is put on the vegetables you eat.  Home gardeners should strive to use the least amount of pesticides possible.  There are many ways to deal with problems other than using pesticides.  However some crops, such as tomatoes and cucumbers, have become very difficult to grow without some chemicals to control fungal disease.  If you want to harvest these crops you may need to apply fungicides labeled for the crop.  Follow the label directions exactly.  This is a decision only you can make

Some people also choose to buy organic seeds and use only organic fertilizers. Both are slightly more expensive than conventional seed and fertilizer. Everyone needs to balance organic growing methods with whether or not they will even get a crop.  After all tomatoes grown in your care with minimal use of fungicides will still be better for you than tomatoes shipped in from another country.

Choosing a site
For vegetable gardens, you need a place that gets at least six hours of full sun each day. The site should be close to water and to the house.  A vegetable garden close to the house receives better care, is harvested more frequently and is less likely to suffer animal damage.

Don’t choose a low spot or one that doesn’t drain well for a vegetable garden.  Low spots collect cold air which gives a shorter season and most vegetables will not grow in wet areas. 

When starting a vegetable garden for the first time think small. A vegetable garden that is twenty by thirty feet is a good start for a family of four.  Big gardens may overwhelm beginners and you can always expand next year. 

The soil
Choose your area and then get a soil test.  A soil test gives you an idea of what your vegetable garden will need for optimum plant growth.  Submit the soil sample at least six weeks before you want to begin planting.  This gives you time to get the results back and amend the soil if needed.  

Contact your County Extension office, they will explain how to collect the soil sample and when the results come back they can help you interpret them.  The service costs a small amount.  Don’t add anything to the soil, such as lime, until you have had a soil test.

Don’t worry too much about the type of soil you have.  Both clay and sandy soil can be turned into good vegetable gardens.  The key to improving both types of soil is to add lots of organic material such as compost. Your soil test may reveal that you need to amend the soil or fertilize.  For small gardens these supplies are not very expensive.

Tools and supplies
You will need a good spade, a garden rake and a hoe.  You will need a hose and nozzles or watering cans for a small garden. Get a good pair of gloves, your seeds and plants and you are ready to start.  Tillers are not necessary. Some other things nice to have are stakes and string, mulch, and row covers.

All those colorful pictures of yummy vegetables can make you spend much more on seeds than you need to.  Read the back to see what size row the package will plant.  Don’t order six types of bean seeds if you only have room for one row of beans.  It seems obvious, but only buy the vegetables that your family likes to eat.

Getting the soil ready
Starting vegetable gardens where there is grass can be hard.  If you can start the year before and smother the grass it’s easier. Just lay an old piece of carpet or some heavy black plastic down on the proposed garden site and let the grass die.  You can also till or dig the area in the fall.  Most people however, will start their first vegetable garden in the spring.

The soil must be ready for you to work it before you start.  Pick up a handful of soil and make a fist.  If the soil stays clumped in your hand when you open it, it is too wet to work. Your soil may take longer than the guy across the streets soil to become ready.  If you work the ground when it is too wet you compact the soil and destroy soil structure and your garden will suffer. When the soil is ready remove as much grass as you can, then dig up or till the soil. 

Choosing your gardening style
Raised beds.
You can choose to lay out traditional rows in the soil, you can form mounded rows, or you can build raised beds.  If your soil drains poorly, mounded or raised beds will work best. Mounded rows simply take soil from the paths and pile it on the rows.  Raised beds can be built from many materials to hold soil. The easiest material to use is treated lumber. Modern treated lumber is not toxic to plants or to people eating food crops grown in the beds made from it.

Raised beds may be the best way to garden if you have very little soil over a rock layer in your yard or hard compacted clay.  Raised beds allow you to concentrate your soil amendments and water in the actual planting area. Make raised beds just wide enough so that you can reach the middle from either side.  You do not want to walk in raised beds to tend them because this compacts the soil.

If you don’t have much ground space to have a garden you should consider large containers for growing some food crops.  You can improvise containers or buy them, many styles are available.  Make sure that they drain well, and you should have a sunny location for them to be placed on.  Good container crops are tomatoes, peppers, eggplant, bush type cucumbers, lettuce, strawberries and many herbs.  However, just about any crop can be grown in a container. When choosing plants for containers look for varieties that say they are good for containers or that promise compact size.

In traditional garden rows and mounded garden rows plants are spaced evenly in a line.  In raised beds and containers plants are spaced randomly throughout the area, keeping the suggested space between each plant.  This is called square foot gardening or intensive planting. 

Planting time
Ask an experienced gardener when the last frost in your area normally occurs.  Cool weather crops can go out a few weeks before the last frost, if the soil is ready to work.  Warm weather crops must be planted after the last frost.

Cool weather crops include peas, lettuce, cabbage, kale, radishes, beets, and potatoes.  In zone 5-6 that is usually mid-April.  Carrots, broccoli, Brussels sprouts and onions can be planted after the last freeze but before the last frost. In zone 5-6 that is usually late April-early May. Tomatoes, beans, peppers, eggplant, cucumbers, squash, pumpkins and corn should be planted after the last frost and when the soil is warm.  In zone 5-6 that is usually late May.

Corn, beans, peas, lettuce, beets, carrots, radish, squash, melons and pumpkins are easy to start from seed right in the garden.  Melons, squash and pumpkins can also be bought as small plants to set out.  Some places sell corn and bean plants but these crops grow better if planted as seeds where they are to grow. Tomatoes, peppers, eggplant, cabbage, broccoli and Brussels sprouts are generally set out as plants you purchase or grow indoors.  Onions are grown from seed, plants or sets and potatoes are grown from small potatoes called seed potatoes.

When the time is right check your seed package, plant label or a garden book to see how far apart and how deep to plant seeds or plants.  Buy a general purpose garden fertilizer, a slow release kind is best, and mix it into the soil where you plant seeds or transplants.  You can choose from organic or non- organic fertilizers in the store. The plants won’t care which you use. Water the transplants or seeds after planting.

When you are planting seeds you may need to remove some plants after they begin growing to give each plant the right amount of space. If you don’t thin out the plants they won’t grow properly. 

Tomatoes covered to prevent sunburn
When you buy or grow plants inside and transplant them into the garden try to pick a cloudy, calm day to plant them outside.  A drizzly cloudy day is great.  These indoor grown plants may suffer a bit of sun shock and wilt or turn brown right after planting. Wind can also dry out the plants and send them into shock if they aren’t used to it. You can make a teepee of newspaper to cover them for a day or two if conditions are sunny.  While the shock of the extra ultraviolet rays or drying winds may not kill the plants it often delays them getting off to a good start.

You may want to mulch your garden after planting but wait until the soil is warm before adding organic mulches like straw or dry leaves between plants. This would probably be a couple weeks after planting each type of crop.  Black plastic can be put down just after planting.  You can even stretch black plastic on the soil surface and cut holes in it to plant small plants. (This doesn’t work well with seeds though.) Mulch can be placed on the rows between plants or raised beds at any time.  Mulch helps keep down weeds and conserves water and keeps crops on the ground as well as your feet from getting muddy.  However if the area has had a lot of rain and the soil is very wet don’t mulch between plants until the soil has dried out a bit.

This is just a quick beginner’s guide to vegetable gardening.  You’ll want to consult some of my other articles or look in a good garden book for information on plant species needs and suggested varieties to plant.  To search in this blog for information on specific plants just type the name in the search box.

Get some planting done today!

Kim Willis
 “He who has a garden and a library wants for nothing” ― Cicero



Events, classes and other offerings
Please let me know if there is any event or class that you would like to share with other gardeners.  These events are primarily in Michigan but if you are a reader from outside of Michigan and want to post an event I’ll be glad to do it.
Master Gardeners if you belong to an association that approves your hours please check with that association before assuming a class or work day will count as credit.

Do you have plants or seeds you would like to swap or share?  Post them here by emailing me. Kimwillis151@gmail.com

A new herb group is forming!  The Lapeer Herb Circle will meet the 2nd Wednesday of the month at Rebekah’s Health and Nutrition Store, 6 pm. at  588 S. Main, Lapeer ( next to Office Depot).  They also have a facebook page you can join.

New- Enviro-weather Gardeners, Tuesday, May 12, 2015 from 7:00 – 8:30 pm at the MSU Extension office, 21885 Dunham Rd., Clinton Twp.,
Landscapers, Farmers, garden center employees and anyone interested are invited to attend a free presentation. Enviro-weather is a weather-based pest, natural resources and production management tool. Beth Bishop of MSU Extension will be presenting information on understanding degree days and how to use the Enviro-weather website. Please register in advance by calling the MSU Extension office at 586-469-6440

Here’s a link to classes being offered at Campbell’s Greenhouse, 4077 Burnside Road, North Branch.  Now open.

Here’s a link to programs being offered at English Gardens, several locations in Michigan.

Here’s a link to classes at Telly’s Greenhouse in Troy and Shelby Twsp. MI, and now combined with Goldner Walsh in Pontiac MI.

Here’s a link to classes and events at Bordines, Rochester Hills, Grand Blanc, Clarkston and Brighton locations

Here’s a link top events at the Leslie Science and Nature Center, 1831 Traver Road Ann Arbor, Michigan  | Phone 734-997-1553 |
http://www.lesliesnc.org/

Here’s a link to events at Hidden Lake Gardens, 6214 Monroe Rd, Tipton, MI

Here’s a link to all the spring programs being offered at Seven Ponds Nature center in Dryden, Michigan. http://www.sevenponds.org/education/progs/springprograms/

Here’s a link to events and classes at Fredrick Meijer Gardens, Grand Rapids Mi
http://www.meijergardens.org/learn/ (888) 957-1580, (616) 957-1580

Back Track To Nature offers the following programs to inspire you and deepen your relationship with nature! In partnership with the Lapeer Land Conservancy and Seven Ponds Nature Center these programs are a perfect way for families and adults to enjoy the outdoors.

MAY 2015
Frog Walk at Sutherland Nature Sanctuary
Saturday, May 2, 2015                9:30AM to 11:00AM
Entrance and parking is located at 3960 Diehl Road, Hadley, Michigan 48440
Today, on this guided walk we will visit the most likely habitats on the edges of ponds, stream and moist wetlands where Michigan’s fantastic frogs live. We will learn about edge habitats that link grasslands to forest and marshes to open water habitats that are indicators of healthy environments. No admittance fee. For more information about this walk, please contact Karen Page at 810-969-1023. The Sutherland Nature Sanctuary of the Lapeer Land Conservancy is open to the public dawn to dusk as a place where people can enjoy nature and observe good land stewardship practices. For more information about the properties visit Lapeer Land Conservancy

Eco Days at Seven Ponds Nature Center
Sunday, May 3, 2015                  beginning at 1:00PM
Seven Ponds Nature Center presents Eco Days. Join us for a Rain Barrel demonstration, learn how to build a rain barrel and take one home. The cost for a barrel is $60.00. If you have any questions call Karen at 810-969-1023.

Frog Walk at Hilton & Marjorie Tibbits Nature Sanctuary and Land Stewardship Center
Saturday, May 9, 2015                  9:30AM to 11:00AM
Entrance and parking is located directly across from  4090 Columbiaville Road, Columbiaville, Michigan 48421
Today on this guided walk we will visit the most likely habitats on the edges of ponds and wetlands where Michigan’s fantastic frogs live. We will learn about edge habitats that link grasslands to forest and marshes to open water habitats that are the indicators of healthy environments. No admittance fee. For more information about this walk, please contact Karen Page at 810-969-1023. The Tibbits Nature Sanctuary of the Lapeer Land Conservancy is open to the public for guided walks only. For more information about the properties visit Lapeer Land Conservancy

Birds Along the Way at the Tibbits Nature Sanctuary
Monday, May 11, 2015                     8:00AM to 10:30AM
Entrance and parking is located directly across from 4090 Columbiaville Road, Columbiaville, Michigan 48421 Today, we will take a leisurely walk through field, forest and visit the wetland enjoy a variety of bird species, identify feathers and even learn a few bird calls. Wear walking shoes, bring binoculars, camera and a guidebook if you have one. Please contact Karen Page at 810-969-1023 to register and children 17 and younger must be accompanied by a registered adult. No admittance fee. The Tibbits Nature Sanctuary of the Lapeer Land Conservancy is open to the public for guided walks.

JUNE 2015

Learn in the Garden Tour  -  A Visit to Three Roods Farm
Monday, June 1, 2015                        9:30AM to 11:30AM and 3:30PM to 5:30PM
4821 One Acre Drive, Columbiaville, Michigan 48421
In this tried and true farm and garden tour we will discover what’s growing at 3RF and learn the meaning of CSA. See what goes into managing a beehive, discover how permaculture garden design uses the inherent qualities of plants and animals combined with natural characteristics of the landscape, and  visit with the chickens, ducks and peahens all living in harmony with one another. Dress for the weather. No admittance fee.  Please call 810-969-1023 to register, children under 17 must be accompanied by a registered adult.

The History of the Land Series - Introduction to Land Stewardship
Thursday June 4, 2015                      6:00PM to 8:00PM
Entrance and parking is located across from 4090 Columbiaville Road, Columbiaville, Michigan In this History of the Land Series, our focus will be on land stewardship of the Tibbits property.  You will gain valuable information and understanding about what a land steward is required to do: we will discuss how to monitor property, identify encroachments both the animal an human impact and show you how to perform trail maintenance and identify invasive species. Join Karen Page land steward, at the Tibbits Nature Sanctuary a Lapeer Land Conservancy property. Cost is $3.00 per person, children 12 and under are free. Groups of 5 or more please call Karen at 810-969-1023 at least 3 days prior to reserve your spot.

Wild Springtime Tea Party
Saturday, June 13, 2015                   10:00AM to 12:00PM
Cassie M owner of Hilltop Barn will guide us through field and forest to show us how to identify native plants and brew up some tasty teas and learn the how wild edibles are beneficial to your overall health. Please contact Karen Page at 810-969-1023 to register, children 17 and younger must be accompanied by a registered adult. No admittance fee and donations accepted. Please park in the designated parking area.

Living with Less: Talk and Tour of the Tibbits Nature Sanctuary
Saturday, June 13, 2015                     1:00PM to 3:00PM 
4107 Columbiaville Road, Columbiaville, Michigan 48421 Rewire your brain to repurpose, reuse, recycle, harvest rainwater and grow your own foods, begin a new lifestyle recreated by living with less, Tibbits Nature Sanctuary owner Clark Tibbits will share his successful experiences creating a life long choice to live on less. A step you can make toward a living with less can be as simple as adding a rain barrel and a square foot garden to your home landscape. Back Track To Nature owner Karen Page, will demonstrate how to harvest rainwater and grow your own food in a small spaces.  Please call 810-969-1023 to register, children under 17 must be accompanied by a registered adult. Follow the signs and park in the designated parking area.

The History of the Land - Introduction to Wetland Restoration
Monday, June 15, 2015                   9:00AM to 11:00AM and 6:00PM to 8:00PM
Entrance and parking is located across from 4090 Columbiaville Road, Columbiaville, Michigan. In this History of the Land Series we will explore, observe and study the wetlands and learn about rich and exciting varieties of wildlife and plants, focusing on water lilies, Today, this wetland is cared for by the Lapeer Land Conservancy but it could have been in the backyard of the famous painter Monet who in 1890 developed his own outside studio where water lilies influenced his paintings. Cost is $3.00 per person, children 12 and under are free.  Dress for the weather. Groups of 5 or more please call Karen at 810-969-1023 at least 3 days before to reserve your spot.

Change of the Season – A Guided Nature Walk
Saturday, June 27, 2015               9:30AM to 11:30AM and 3:30PM to 5:30PM
Entrance and parking is located across from  4090 Columbiaville Road, Columbiaville, Michigan Join us for a guided nature walk on the trials of the Hilton and Marjorie Tibbits Nature Sanctuary a Lapeer Land Conservancy property. Bring water bottle, binoculars, camera and field guides. Dress for the weather. This is a walking tour on uneven terrain. No Admittance fee. Groups of 5 or more please call 810-969-1023 at least 3 days prior to this walk.

Learn in the Garden Tour - Planting, Composting and Water Harvesting
Monday, June 29, 2015                 9:30AM to 11:30AM and 3:30PM to 5:30PM
In this tried and true garden tour you will learn basic techniques, of planting, composting and water harvesting to promote sustainability and keep your own garden growing in abundance. This farm and garden tour will be held at Three Roods Farm at 4821 One Acre Drive, Columbiaville Michigan. Dress for the weather. Class size is limited to 15, children 17 and under must be accompanied by a registered adult. No admittance fee. Call 810-969-1023 to reserve your spot.


ReLeaf Michigan is having its annual tree sale, order online and pick up at several locations around Michigan.  http://releafmichigan.blogspot.com/p/tree-and-shrub-fundraiser-sale.html  Check out the unusual selection of trees and shrubs.

ReLeaf Michigan's annual tree and shrub sale helps to reverse Michigan's loss of tens of thousands of trees due to the emerald ash borer, storms, and old age.  Our tree sale is a fundraiser that also encourages the public to plant trees to improve the overall tree canopy of their community. Purchasing and planting our trees and shrubs offer environmental benefits that also provide ReLeaf Michigan with much-needed revenue to support our ongoing tree planting and educational programs.  Thanks for your support!

 
MSU Horticulture Gardens’ Spring Program: Can You Dig It?, May 2, 2015 8 a.m. - 4 p.m., Plant and Soil Sciences Building, 1066 Bogue Street, East Lansing, MI
Sessions include: Woodland wonders from the wild, Art of Gardening, Joy of Propagation, Cultivating the recipe garden, lunch from Grand Traverse Pie Company included.  Rare plant sales.  Early registration (on or before April 21) for MSU Horticulture Garden Member $69 Early registration (on or before April 21) for non-MSU Horticulture Garden Member $79 Registrations received after April 21 $89
Contact: 517-353-0443, hgardens@msu.edu.


Newsletter information
If you would like to pass along a notice about an educational event or a volunteer opportunity please send me an email before Tuesday of each week and I will print it. Also if you have a comment or opinion you’d like to share, send it to me. Please state that you want to have the item published in my weekly notes. You must give your full name and what you say must be polite and not attack any individual. I am very open to ideas and opinions that don’t match mine but I do reserve the right to publish what I want.
Once again the opinions in this newsletter are mine and I do not represent any organization or business. I do not make any income from this newsletter. I write this because I love to share with other gardeners some of the things I come across in my research each week. It keeps me engaged with local people and horticulture. It’s a hobby, basically. I hope you enjoy it. If at any time you don’t wish to receive these emails just let me know. If you know anyone who would like to receive these emails have them send their email address to me.  KimWillis151@gmail.com


Tuesday, April 21, 2015

April 21, 2015, Kim’s Weekly Garden Newsletter

April 21, 2015, Kim’s Weekly Garden Newsletter    © Kim Willis

Hello Gardeners

As is usual today is a change-over day for the weather.  The change started yesterday where we transitioned from warm, dry sunny weather to cool cloudy and sometimes wet weather.  I had a half inch of rain through this morning and we had a brief period of pea sized hail this morning.  We do need the rain however as we are running below normal in rainfall this April. 

I really loved the weather last week however.  I planted a flat of pansies and did a lot of garden clean up including weeding and cleaning up my raspberry and strawberry beds.  My first sowing of lettuce outside is up and growing.  I have hyacinths in bloom and a single tulip along with lots of daffodils.  Some crocus are still blooming although they are starting to fade. Some tiny violas are blooming in the front lawn.  Maples and willows are blooming, honeysuckle, barberry, and a few other things are showing tiny leaves.  I am told that magnolias are blooming in some of the more southern areas.  The grass is green and getting long in some places. 

I haven’t seen the hummingbirds or orioles yet although hummingbirds have been spotted in Livingston County and a few other places in southern Michigan.  The frogs have been singing like crazy, although they will probably be quieter the next few days until the warmer weather returns.  There’s supposed to be a mix of rain and snow tonight and wet, cold temperatures for the next few days but nicer weather will return by next weekend.

Spring Peepers

For most of the year you won’t see these tiny frogs very often or hear them but in spring these 1½ inch frogs will cause a mighty song to emanate from every tiny puddle and pool in the landscape.  They are one of the first frogs to sing in the spring in Michigan, often before the ice is off of larger ponds and lakes. Their song is a high pitched trill that goes on day and night, although it’s strongest in early evening.  The sound can be heard more than a mile away.
Spring peeper.

The spring peeper is gray-brown with a black X on its back and some black markings on its legs. The belly is a lighter cream color. The skin is smooth. The feet have both small webs like other frogs and suction pads on the toes to help them climb.  Females may be a little larger than males and often lighter in color.

Spring peepers are tree frogs and can climb into low trees and shrubs, but they spend a lot of time in leaf litter on the ground and in low vegetation looking for bugs. In the spring breeding season they congregate around any low spot that holds water. The singing or croaking if you must- is caused by male frogs inflating a balloon like area of skin under their chins and releasing the air.  They sing to attract females. 

In the winter spring peepers hibernate buried in soil.  They emerge with the first warm weather in the spring, earlier than most other frogs. During spring breeding season in the north spring peepers frequently encounter freezing nights and they have the ability to survive even if their blood freezes for a short time.  They lay strings of 700-1000 eggs at the edges of ponds and pools, usually hidden near vegetation. The eggs hatch into tadpoles in 4-10 days depending on weather. The race is then on to develop into tiny frogs before the pond or pool dries up. This can happen in as little as 45 days or as long as 60 days.  Many tadpoles are eaten by fish and even water bugs before they become frogs.

The main enemies of spring peepers once they become frogs are snakes and other frogs and toads. They are great helpers in the garden, eating many harmful insects and should be encouraged to stick around.  Pesticides sprayed on lawns and low vegetation can be harmful to these tiny guys and its another reason to avoid using them.

Cultivating cute clovers

White clover Trifolium repens in lawn.
Clovers are so common that many people assume they are native plants but all the clovers you see in the northeast  (and in many other places in the US) are most likely to be non –natives that have gone wild.  There are a few North American native clovers, mostly from the western prairies, but they are seldom seen in other areas of the country or in human landscapes.  Clovers have a wide range of uses, cover crops to improve soil nitrogen, hay plants, low-care lawns, wildlife and bee food, medicinal teas and even as ornamental garden plants.  Clovers are a prime example of a non-native plant that is considered to be very valuable to the environment.

One of the most common clovers is white clover, Trifolium repens. White clover was brought to North America very early in European settlement and has now spread throughout the continent.  It’s native to Eurasia and North Africa. White clover is the clover of lawns, a short sturdy little perennial plant with typical leaves consisting of 3 leaflets, sometimes 4 if you are lucky. Each leaflet typically has a marking of red or white on it.  White clover has small, white, round blooms tinged with pink, which consist of a cluster of tiny flowers with long nectar tubes. 

White clover can be used as a cover crop since it fixes nitrogen, and then turned into the soil to improve it.  It’s often used as a ground cover in orchards because as it improves the soil it also draws pollinators. White clover is used for grazing pastures and hay.  It is often included in wildlife food plot mixes because deer and turkeys, as well as many other animals and birds, like it.  The leaves, flowers and seeds are all important wildlife foods.

While some people consider white clover a weed in lawns it was once included in many lawn seed mixtures.  White clover is also seeing renewed interest as people want low maintenance lawns that are more wildlife and pollinator friendly.  It can be allowed to mix with grasses or sowed as the entire lawn.  It tolerates shade and poor soil, and spreads quickly.  Special varieties that are more compact have been developed for lawn use.  Clover lawns are for people who don’t treat the lawn with weed killers and don’t mind mowing less frequently.  Bees will swarm the flowers so walking barefoot in a clover lawn isn’t a great idea.  If you allow white clover to grow in the lawn you will have less trouble with rabbits eating nearby ornamental plants as they prefer clover to most other plants.

Because many mutations of the clover leaflets develop naturally, white clover has been developed into several pretty ornamental varieties.  These can be allowed to spread as ground covers or used in pots for their pretty foliage.  ‘Dragons Blood’ is one of the older mutations; each leaflet is splashed with varying amounts of blood red.  ‘Dark Dancer’ has purple toned leaves edged in pale green. ‘Frosty Morning’, ‘Patchwork Quilt’, ‘Irish Mist’, and ‘Pistachio Ice Cream’ are varieties developed by the University of Georgia and they are different variations of white, pink, red and light green marked leaves. ‘4Luck Red-Green’  has a dark green leaf heavily marked with red that has a high percentage of leaves with 4 leaflets- the lucky four leaved clover.
Cultivated white clover 4Luck Red-Green

White clover is edible, both blossoms and leaves.  Although it wasn’t a native plant North American native peoples found many uses for the plant.  They made a pleasure tea of the flowers as Europeans did but they also dried and powdered the blossoms and seeds to use as a spice in other foods.  The dried flowers have a bit of vanilla taste.  The leaves and roots were often boiled as a cooked green in spring.  A sweetened tea was used for coughs and colds similar to European use of the tea.  European herbal uses of white clover are for colds and sore throats.  It was sometimes used as a tea for women’s problems but red clover flowers are more often used for this.

Red clover, Trifolium pratense, is the next most common clover seen in the landscape.  It too was introduced from Europe but has naturalized across the country.  It may have been brought here for its herbal uses or as a good hay/pasture plant for livestock.  Once it got here though, it was here to stay.  Red Clover is an example of a non-native plant that has become very important to our native wildlife.

Red Clover is used for food by either adults or larvae of these butterflies; Monarch, Eastern Black Swallowtail, Pearl Crescent, Spicebush Swallowtail, Cabbage White, Great Spangled Fritillary, Painted Lady,  Red Admiral, Common Sulphur and Eastern Tailed Blue. It’s an excellent bee food plant also.  Red clover is eagerly sought out by rabbits, turkeys, deer and other animals. 

Red clover is taller – up to 3 feet- and thicker in substance and with larger leaves than white clover.  It too has 3 leaflets to each leaf, and the leaflets usually have a red V shaped marking on them.  Red clover has larger flower cluster than white clover in varying shades of reddish purple, lavender and pink.  Because of its floppy and invasive nature it doesn’t make the best plant for ornamental gardens but it’s worth planting a patch ( or allowing a wild patch to flourish) in butterfly gardens and in the herb garden.

Red Clover, Trifolium pratense
en.wikipedia.org
Red clover is often used in hay crop mixtures.  It too can be used as a cover crop to improve soil and as a wildlife food crop.  There are commercial varieties available for hay crops.  Prairie plant seed mixes often include red clover even though it isn’t a native plant.

Red Clover has a long history of use as a medicinal plant and dried flowers for tea can be found in stores.  Research has shown that red clover contains phytoestrogens, substances that mimic estrogen, and it has a long history of use for female problems such as menopausal symptoms.  Red clover tea may help women with pre-menstrual symptoms.  It was once considered a cancer remedy but current research suggests it while it may have some benefit in certain cancers it might also encourage some estrogen dependent cancers to grow.  Those with breast cancer are urged not to use red clover products.   Red clover tea is also used on skin problems, rashes and psoriasis, and for coughs and colds. 

The last three clovers discussed here are purely ornamental.  The most common of the ornamental use clovers is Pink Clover, Trifolium rubens, is often called by the confusing common name Red Feathers.   It has the familiar clover leaves but the flower clusters are more elongated and plume-like  and occur two to a stem, one larger than the other.  The flowers are held on long stiff stems and make good cut flowers.   The color of the flower clusters ranges from a silvery mauve to silvery rose pink.  Plants are up to 2 feet tall and make good filler for informal flower beds.   It is a clumping type perennial plant and spreads only slowly so it’s a good garden subject.  The flowers dry into attractive tan seed heads.

Crimson Clover Trifolium incarnatum
commons.wikipedia
Crimson Clover  Trifolium incarnatum is sometimes called Italian Clover because it is native to that part of Europe.  It is similar to Pink Clover but the plume flower clusters are deep crimson red and quite showy in the garden.   It can grow up to 3 feet tall in a good location.  It’s quite attractive to bees and a great plant for pollinator gardens and mixed borders.  Crimson Clover is an annual, but will re-seed itself if left to set seed.  It will tolerate partial shade.  In Europe this pretty clover is also used as a hay crop and if you have sufficient seed it can be used as a cover crop, fall sown and turned under early in spring.  Crimson Clover may not bloom well when summers get really hot and will not bloom following mowing or grazing.

Trifolium ochroleucum  or Sulphur clover is a hard to find ornamental clover for those who like something different.  It has tennis ball sized, rounded, creamy to pale yellow flower heads on a sturdy 18 inch high plant.  The flowers have a sweet scent and are long lasting.  Sulphur Clover makes excellent container plants or mid or front of the mixed border subjects.  In Europe they are sometimes used as mass bedding plants.  Sulphur clover flowers attract bees and butterflies.  The plant is a perennial that blooms for a long period in summer.  Sulphur clover prefers sun but will tolerate partial shade and is hardy to US plant zone 4.

A caution for growing clovers for herbal use is to make sure there is absolutely no mold on any clover flowers or leaves you dry for teas and other uses.  Moldy clover produces coumadin, a blood thinning compound that can cause anemia and internal bleeding.  It is more common to have this problem when using two clover relatives,  Melilotus officinalis and  Melilotus albus, which have the common names  sweet clover or honey clover but all clovers can produce the chemical in the presence of certain molds. Sweet clovers have spikes of tiny flowers that are loved by bees but they should be avoided by herbalists and removed from pastures and hay fields.  Pregnant women should probably avoid all clover herbal products and people who have cancer should always consult with a doctor before consuming clover herbal products.  Red Clover has caused infertility in animals when they graze on the plants for long periods of time.

Here are some sources for clovers.

Tips on picking plants at big box stores

Some gardeners avoid buying plants from general purpose retail stores that have garden centers out of plant snobbery, others avoid it because they have heard that the plants are somehow not very good-( usually from the plant snobs) and others avoid buying because they feel they need expert help in choosing plants and don’t expect to get it from these stores.   But these discount stores can offer good plants at good prices if you know how to shop for them.  And more and more discount stores are carrying new and rarer plants thanks to plant wholesalers such as Proven Winners and Monrovia.  While plant lovers will always find a store devoted to plants and plant products fascinating and money draining, it doesn’t hurt to carefully shop at the discount retailers also.

First choose general purpose retail stores that take good care of the plants they set out seasonally.  They should have a dedicated area where plants are displayed so that they can be watered and cared for easily.  Plants set out on the parking lot surface or pallets on the sidewalk are usually good for just a day or two after they arrive, after that they tend to dry out and become stressed and diseased.  Avoid stores where the plants are dried up and wilting, pots are damaged or soil is spilled all over.  Plants should be clearly marked with the price and name of the plant.  A good retail shore will also have at least a few employees that know a little about plants  or will have reps from the wholesale companies on hand to help people with plant questions. 

Even if the garden shop employees know a little about gardening it’s best to do your homework before shopping for plants at general purpose retail stores.  Know what type of plants are suitable for the areas where you want to add plants, which species require sun or shade or don’t like wet feet or need acidic conditions for example.  Bring a list or book with you to consult if needed.

Read labels on plants carefully.  Look for hardiness ratings, the planting zone suitable for the plant should be on all perennial plants sold.  The retail stores that don’t specialize in plants often buy plants that aren’t hardy for the local area.  You need to know what plant hardiness zone you live in.  You can safely buy plants that are a lower rated zone than yours, but if they are rated as hardy in a higher numbered zone they may die over the winter.   Remember that some varieties within a species may be more cold hardy than others. Some types of lavenders or butterfly bushes, for example, aren’t hardy in zone 5 but others will be.  

Annual plants, which live for one year, probably won’t have a zone listed but remember that most of these greenhouse grown plants need to be planted after the danger of frost has passed or protected whenever frost threatens.   Stores have tomatoes, impatiens, petunias and other things in stock long before it’s really safe to plant them in the garden.  They really don’t mind if you have to buy them again after frost kills them.

Plants in big general purpose retail stores and even in some plant dedicated nurseries and greenhouses are generally about a month ahead in size and bloom time than plants grown in the ground in your area.   Plants in bloom get more impulse sales. Things that are in bloom in the store now probably won’t be blooming at the same time next year when they are in your garden.  Don’t choose plant color combinations based on what’s blooming together in the store- next year the bloom time of the different plants may not be synchronized.   If it’s before the last frost when you are buying perennial plants in bloom the flowers may be killed by frost or freezing when you plant them in the garden this year.  That probably won’t kill the plant, but will ruin this year’s show.

Compare the pot size with the plant price and look at the size of the plant in the pot.  Bigger sized pots usually cost more than smaller ones but if you look at the size of the plant in the pot you may find that the plant in the smaller, cheaper pot is nearly as big as the plant in the larger pot.  It will be the better bargain.  Smaller annual plants usually catch up quickly with larger potted ones.   In perennials the size of the plant may mean it will bloom faster or fill in a spot faster but if you are willing to be patient the smaller sized pot will be a great bargain.  Potted trees and shrubs should be in pots that look proportionate to the plant size.  Big trees in small pots may have stunted roots and small trees or shrubs in huge pots may mean you are paying for a lot of potting soil, not a lot of plant.

Check the warranty or return policy of the store as regards to plants.  Do you need to retain the receipt, plant tag, plant container?   Trees, shrubs and perennials should generally be guaranteed for one growing season.  Annual plants commonly have only a short or no guarantee.  Big box stores may actually have better guarantees than plant dedicated stores.

Big general purpose stores tend to sell plants a little cheaper than plant dedicated stores but they will generally have less variety than a nursery or greenhouse.  If you just want hosta’s  and don’t care if they are the newest varieties you may get better deals at a general purpose retail store.  Sales at these stores will often allow you to get plants at bargain prices that are perfectly healthy because the stores don’t mind losing money on the plant in hopes you will buy other things in the store.  Annual plants for bedding are often – but not always- cheaper than at a plant dedicated store and if you just need 5 red geraniums the general purpose store’s garden shop is probably a good choice.

While garden supplies and art pieces won’t be as extensive or as exclusive as at some nurseries and greenhouses you may get better prices on things like brand name tools, fertilizers, mulch, and potting soil.  Gardeners should always consider these large retail stores for supplies if they want to keep costs down.

However if you are looking for specific named varieties of plants, like new and unusual plants, or need lots of help selecting plants for your conditions a nursery or regular garden store may be the better choice.  There’s just something about a big nursery or greenhouse filled with plants that gets the gardeners heart going.  Most gardeners learn to use both types of stores, however, and to a plant lover any plants for sale will draw your eye and tempt you to buy.   Don’t avoid the garden shop of the local mass retail store because of plant snobbery- search it for bargains and neat finds.

1000 year old herbal remedy cures MRSA

One thousand years ago, in the 10th century, a man named Bald described in his book, Bald’s Leechbook, a remedy for curing eye infections.  In this century Dr. Christina Lee, who is an Associate Professor in Viking Studies and part of the University’s Institute for Medieval Research collaborated with Dr. Freya Harrison, a microbiologist, to translate and recreate the ancient remedy.

The remedy consists of a blend of garlic, leeks or onions, wine and the bile from a cow’s stomach.  The researchers were careful to source older varieties of garlic and leeks and follow the directions for making the cure exactly.  To their amazement when they treated the very deadly methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus bacteria (MRSA) with the remedy it killed 90% of the bacteria, which is as good as the only current antibiotic we have for these bacteria.  They repeated the research under a variety of conditions and found it remained extremely effective.  They’ll present their findings at the Annual Conference of the Society for General Microbiology, in Birmingham, England this year.

The researchers want to try the remedy on other bacterial infections, such as the foot ulcers that plague diabetes patients.  In the meantime it makes one wonder what other medical breakthroughs ancient medical texts might hold.

This week’s fabulous foods- pears and shitake mushrooms

Pears are one of the stars of the nutrition-medicine scene this week.  Research published in Food Research International this week found that pears, specifically Bartlett and Starkrimson pears, could help prevent type 2 diabetes and hypertension associated with it.  Pears, consumed with the skin, help regulate blood glucose control and hypertension because of their high phenol and vitamin content and the fiber associated with pear pulp and skin.  Research suggest eating a whole raw pear every day may be beneficial for those who are pre-diabetic or recently diagnosed.

Shitake mushrooms are the subject of another research report by the University of Florida.  It was found that people who ate 4 ounces daily of shitake mushrooms had a better immune system response as measured by better-functioning gamma delta T-cells and reductions in inflammatory proteins than a control group who did not eat the mushrooms.  So chow down this week on shitake mushrooms and pears.

Harvesting and cooking asparagus

Gardeners will begin to harvest their asparagus patches soon and asparagus is available in local farmers markets in May up to late June in Michigan.  Allow asparagus shoots to get 6-8 inches high before harvest.  Cut asparagus shoots with a sharp knife at ground level to harvest and never harvest more than one third of your patch in a season.  You are eating the stems and leaves before they fully emerge and the plant needs some stems and leaves left so it can produce its own food. When buying asparagus look for firm, bright green shoots about the width of your little finger.

Wash your harvested shoots or those you purchase in clean, running water, don’t soak them.  If the stems are larger in diameter than a pencil they are probably a bit tough and need to be peeled.  To peel, simply slice off a thin layer of outer skin with a paring knife up to the start of the tip area.

Asparagus is a little tricky to cook.  Don’t overcook it or it will taste bland and mushy.   You either like asparagus and the smell that your body will give off after you eat it or you don’t.  Here are some ways to cook asparagus for those who like it.

 Boiling asparagus

Bundle asparagus stems in groups of 6-8 stems by wrapping them with a bit of string at the bottom and just below the tips.  Make sure the pot you use will accommodate the length of the stems.  If left unwrapped asparagus stems bump together and break up the tips.

Bring water to boil in the pot and add a little salt- about a teaspoon.  Add the asparagus bundles.  Cook uncovered for 6-8 minutes or until the stalk part is softened.  Remove by hooking the string with a fork or use tongs.  Boiled asparagus is usually served with a cheese sauce.

Asparagus steamed in the microwave

Peel asparagus.   Wrap several stems in a two-3 layers of soaked and wrung out white paper towel.  Microwave on high for 2 minutes, test stems for softness, microwave for additional minutes at a time until soft enough.

Skillet fried asparagus
         
          * 2 pounds of asparagus stalks
          * 8 tablespoons butter
          * 3 tablespoons soy sauce
          * 1 tablespoon lemon juice
          * salt and pepper to taste

Peel asparagus and slice very thinly, diagonal slices work best; slices should not be more than a 1/4 inch thick.  Par-boil slices by putting them in a colander and dipping them into boiling water for 1 minute.  Drain.

Heat butter in a frying pan with soy sauce and lemon juice.  When bubbling add asparagus slices and stir and toss until they are crisp and the butter lightly browned. This will serve 4-6.

Remember April Showers bring May flowers
Kim Willis
 “He who has a garden and a library wants for nothing” ― Cicero



Events, classes and other offerings
Please let me know if there is any event or class that you would like to share with other gardeners.  These events are primarily in Michigan but if you are a reader from outside of Michigan and want to post an event I’ll be glad to do it.
Master Gardeners if you belong to an association that approves your hours please check with that association before assuming a class or work day will count as credit.

Do you have plants or seeds you would like to swap or share?  Post them here by emailing me. Kimwillis151@gmail.com

A new herb group is forming!  The Lapeer Herb Circle will meet the 2nd Wednesday of the month at Rebekah’s Health and Nutrition Store, 6 pm. at  588 S. Main, Lapeer ( next to Office Depot).  They also have a facebook page you can join.

Attention Beekeepers!!! We are looking for individuals to participate with a state-wide apiary registry. We are currently developing the website/database for this project and we are looking for beekeepers who will come in on the ground floor of this project and help us get it launched. Not asking for any money, only your time and/or input. Please send us an e-mail if you are interested in helping the bees or want to know more.

In specific, we are looking for people with beekeeping experience to be board members for the organization, inspectors for different areas around Michigan and volunteers to help us get the word out at different clubs, festivals, etc. Please consider helping us and the bees too! Visit our website and let us know if you can help! www.MichiganApiaryRegistry.org

Here’s a link to classes being offered at Campbell’s Greenhouse, 4077 Burnside Road, North Branch.  Now open.

Here’s a link to programs being offered at English Gardens, several locations in Michigan.

Here’s a link to classes at Telly’s Greenhouse in Troy and Shelby Twsp. MI, and now combined with Goldner Walsh in Pontiac MI.

Here’s a link to classes and events at Bordines, Rochester Hills, Grand Blanc, Clarkston and Brighton locations

Here’s a link top events at the Leslie Science and Nature Center, 1831 Traver Road Ann Arbor, Michigan  | Phone 734-997-1553 |
http://www.lesliesnc.org/

Here’s a link to events at Hidden Lake Gardens, 6214 Monroe Rd, Tipton, MI

Here’s a link to all the spring programs being offered at Seven Ponds Nature center in Dryden, Michigan. http://www.sevenponds.org/education/progs/springprograms/

Here’s a link to events and classes at Fredrick Meijer Gardens, Grand Rapids Mi
http://www.meijergardens.org/learn/ (888) 957-1580, (616) 957-1580
New-Back Track To Nature offers the following programs to inspire you and deepen your relationship with nature! In partnership with the Lapeer Land Conservancy and Seven Ponds Nature Center these programs are a perfect way for families and adults to enjoy the outdoors.

MAY 2015
Frog Walk at Sutherland Nature Sanctuary
Saturday, May 2, 2015                9:30AM to 11:00AM
Entrance and parking is located at 3960 Diehl Road, Hadley, Michigan 48440
Today, on this guided walk we will visit the most likely habitats on the edges of ponds, stream and moist wetlands where Michigan’s fantastic frogs live. We will learn about edge habitats that link grasslands to forest and marshes to open water habitats that are indicators of healthy environments. No admittance fee. For more information about this walk, please contact Karen Page at 810-969-1023. The Sutherland Nature Sanctuary of the Lapeer Land Conservancy is open to the public dawn to dusk as a place where people can enjoy nature and observe good land stewardship practices. For more information about the properties visit Lapeer Land Conservancy

Eco Days at Seven Ponds Nature Center
Sunday, May 3, 2015                  beginning at 1:00PM
Seven Ponds Nature Center presents Eco Days. Join us for a Rain Barrel demonstration, learn how to build a rain barrel and take one home. The cost for a barrel is $60.00. If you have any questions call Karen at 810-969-1023.

Frog Walk at Hilton & Marjorie Tibbits Nature Sanctuary and Land Stewardship Center
Saturday, May 9, 2015                  9:30AM to 11:00AM
Entrance and parking is located directly across from  4090 Columbiaville Road, Columbiaville, Michigan 48421
Today on this guided walk we will visit the most likely habitats on the edges of ponds and wetlands where Michigan’s fantastic frogs live. We will learn about edge habitats that link grasslands to forest and marshes to open water habitats that are the indicators of healthy environments. No admittance fee. For more information about this walk, please contact Karen Page at 810-969-1023. The Tibbits Nature Sanctuary of the Lapeer Land Conservancy is open to the public for guided walks only. For more information about the properties visit Lapeer Land Conservancy

Birds Along the Way at the Tibbits Nature Sanctuary
Monday, May 11, 2015                     8:00AM to 10:30AM
Entrance and parking is located directly across from 4090 Columbiaville Road, Columbiaville, Michigan 48421 Today, we will take a leisurely walk through field, forest and visit the wetland enjoy a variety of bird species, identify feathers and even learn a few bird calls. Wear walking shoes, bring binoculars, camera and a guidebook if you have one. Please contact Karen Page at 810-969-1023 to register and children 17 and younger must be accompanied by a registered adult. No admittance fee. The Tibbits Nature Sanctuary of the Lapeer Land Conservancy is open to the public for guided walks.

JUNE 2015

Learn in the Garden Tour  -  A Visit to Three Roods Farm
Monday, June 1, 2015                        9:30AM to 11:30AM and 3:30PM to 5:30PM
4821 One Acre Drive, Columbiaville, Michigan 48421
In this tried and true farm and garden tour we will discover what’s growing at 3RF and learn the meaning of CSA. See what goes into managing a beehive, discover how permaculture garden design uses the inherent qualities of plants and animals combined with natural characteristics of the landscape, and  visit with the chickens, ducks and peahens all living in harmony with one another. Dress for the weather. No admittance fee.  Please call 810-969-1023 to register, children under 17 must be accompanied by a registered adult.

The History of the Land Series - Introduction to Land Stewardship
Thursday June 4, 2015                      6:00PM to 8:00PM
Entrance and parking is located across from 4090 Columbiaville Road, Columbiaville, Michigan In this History of the Land Series, our focus will be on land stewardship of the Tibbits property.  You will gain valuable information and understanding about what a land steward is required to do: we will discuss how to monitor property, identify encroachments both the animal an human impact and show you how to perform trail maintenance and identify invasive species. Join Karen Page land steward, at the Tibbits Nature Sanctuary a Lapeer Land Conservancy property. Cost is $3.00 per person, children 12 and under are free. Groups of 5 or more please call Karen at 810-969-1023 at least 3 days prior to reserve your spot.

Wild Springtime Tea Party
Saturday, June 13, 2015                   10:00AM to 12:00PM
Cassie M owner of Hilltop Barn will guide us through field and forest to show us how to identify native plants and brew up some tasty teas and learn the how wild edibles are beneficial to your overall health. Please contact Karen Page at 810-969-1023 to register, children 17 and younger must be accompanied by a registered adult. No admittance fee and donations accepted. Please park in the designated parking area.

Living with Less: Talk and Tour of the Tibbits Nature Sanctuary
Saturday, June 13, 2015                     1:00PM to 3:00PM 
4107 Columbiaville Road, Columbiaville, Michigan 48421 Rewire your brain to repurpose, reuse, recycle, harvest rainwater and grow your own foods, begin a new lifestyle recreated by living with less, Tibbits Nature Sanctuary owner Clark Tibbits will share his successful experiences creating a life long choice to live on less. A step you can make toward a living with less can be as simple as adding a rain barrel and a square foot garden to your home landscape. Back Track To Nature owner Karen Page, will demonstrate how to harvest rainwater and grow your own food in a small spaces.  Please call 810-969-1023 to register, children under 17 must be accompanied by a registered adult. Follow the signs and park in the designated parking area.

The History of the Land - Introduction to Wetland Restoration
Monday, June 15, 2015                   9:00AM to 11:00AM and 6:00PM to 8:00PM
Entrance and parking is located across from 4090 Columbiaville Road, Columbiaville, Michigan. In this History of the Land Series we will explore, observe and study the wetlands and learn about rich and exciting varieties of wildlife and plants, focusing on water lilies, Today, this wetland is cared for by the Lapeer Land Conservancy but it could have been in the backyard of the famous painter Monet who in 1890 developed his own outside studio where water lilies influenced his paintings. Cost is $3.00 per person, children 12 and under are free.  Dress for the weather. Groups of 5 or more please call Karen at 810-969-1023 at least 3 days before to reserve your spot.

Change of the Season – A Guided Nature Walk
Saturday, June 27, 2015               9:30AM to 11:30AM and 3:30PM to 5:30PM
Entrance and parking is located across from  4090 Columbiaville Road, Columbiaville, Michigan Join us for a guided nature walk on the trials of the Hilton and Marjorie Tibbits Nature Sanctuary a Lapeer Land Conservancy property. Bring water bottle, binoculars, camera and field guides. Dress for the weather. This is a walking tour on uneven terrain. No Admittance fee. Groups of 5 or more please call 810-969-1023 at least 3 days prior to this walk.

Learn in the Garden Tour - Planting, Composting and Water Harvesting
Monday, June 29, 2015                 9:30AM to 11:30AM and 3:30PM to 5:30PM
In this tried and true garden tour you will learn basic techniques, of planting, composting and water harvesting to promote sustainability and keep your own garden growing in abundance. This farm and garden tour will be held at Three Roods Farm at 4821 One Acre Drive, Columbiaville Michigan. Dress for the weather. Class size is limited to 15, children 17 and under must be accompanied by a registered adult. No admittance fee. Call 810-969-1023 to reserve your spot.


ReLeaf Michigan is having its annual tree sale, order online and pick up at several locations around Michigan.  http://releafmichigan.blogspot.com/p/tree-and-shrub-fundraiser-sale.html  Check out the unusual selection of trees and shrubs.

ReLeaf Michigan's annual tree and shrub sale helps to reverse Michigan's loss of tens of thousands of trees due to the emerald ash borer, storms, and old age.  Our tree sale is a fundraiser that also encourages the public to plant trees to improve the overall tree canopy of their community. Purchasing and planting our trees and shrubs offer environmental benefits that also provide ReLeaf Michigan with much-needed revenue to support our ongoing tree planting and educational programs.  Thanks for your support!

Spring Into Gardening Conference, Saturday, April 25, 2015, 9:00am to 4:00 pm, Mt. Pleasant, MI

A day-long Master Garden Conference held in Mount Pleasant, Michigan at the Comfort Inn and Suites.  Sponsored by the Master Gardener Association of Isabella County.  This conference is for the beginner to advanced gardeners who love to learn about gardening.  Please invite a friend to come along for a fun filled day! Public welcome-Not restricted to MG

Speakers:
Barb Balgoyen, topic - Perennials
Jason Erickson, topic - Water Features
Chuck Martin, topic - Divine use of Vines
Mary K. Hausbeck, topic - research on diseases of ornamentals, herbs and vegetables
Requires pre-registration. $60.00 cost includes - Four Speakers, Lunch, Vendors and door prizes
Phone:  (989) 400 – 1391 contact email:  b.laughlin@cmich.edu

 
MSU Horticulture Gardens’ Spring Program: Can You Dig It?, May 2, 2015 8 a.m. - 4 p.m., Plant and Soil Sciences Building, 1066 Bogue Street, East Lansing, MI
Sessions include: Woodland wonders from the wild, Art of Gardening, Joy of Propagation, Cultivating the recipe garden, lunch from Grand Traverse Pie Company included.  Rare plant sales.  Early registration (on or before April 21) for MSU Horticulture Garden Member $69 Early registration (on or before April 21) for non-MSU Horticulture Garden Member $79 Registrations received after April 21 $89
Contact: 517-353-0443, hgardens@msu.edu.

Gardening and All That Jazz – Innovation and Sustainability For Your Garden, Saturday, April 25, 2015 – 7 am – 4:15 pm, Oakland Schools Conference Center 2111 Pontiac Lake Road, Waterford

Sessions include: Will Allen – Growing Power and the Good Food Revolution: A visual story of how Growing Power came to be and of Will Allen’s personal journey, the lives he has touched, and a grassroots movement that is changing the way our nation eats., Will Allen – How To Put “Growing Power” in Your Backyard: How to make your own compost bin, outdoor and indoor worm bins and raised beds. Matthew Benson – Growing Beautiful Food: Cultivating the Incredible, Edible Garden - Kerry Ann Mendez – Gardening Simpli­fied for Changing Lifestyle: Exceptional Plants and Design Solutions for Aging and Time-pressed Gardeners

Lunch and snacks included in cost.  Garden marketplace and jazz musicians. Early Bloomers Registration Fee: $70 After March 14, 2015 Fee: $80 Registration at the door is not available. Registration Deadline: Wednesday, April 20, 2015  Registr by going to http://www.mgsoc.org/2015Conference_registration.pdf   For more info:  Nancy Strodl, Phone: 248-552-5095, E-mail: nancy_strodl@comcast.net

MSU offered a variety of on line seminars for those who were interested in beginning farming topics of various types.  Some of those are now available free to watch at the address below.  Gardeners may be interested in topics like organic pest controlGet the list of topics and links here.


Newsletter information
If you would like to pass along a notice about an educational event or a volunteer opportunity please send me an email before Tuesday of each week and I will print it. Also if you have a comment or opinion you’d like to share, send it to me. Please state that you want to have the item published in my weekly notes. You must give your full name and what you say must be polite and not attack any individual. I am very open to ideas and opinions that don’t match mine but I do reserve the right to publish what I want.
Once again the opinions in this newsletter are mine and I do not represent any organization or business. I do not make any income from this newsletter. I write this because I love to share with other gardeners some of the things I come across in my research each week. It keeps me engaged with local people and horticulture. It’s a hobby, basically. I hope you enjoy it. If at any time you don’t wish to receive these emails just let me know. If you know anyone who would like to receive these emails have them send their email address to me.  KimWillis151@gmail.com