No chemicals

http://www.adn.com/2010/12/29/1624589/gardeners-go-chemical-free-in.html

Easy to say and hard to do.

Sassafras

Sassafras albidum

http://www.finegardening.com/item/17231/there-must-be-a-word-for-this

Interesting leaf shapes.

Hawk 1, Squirrel 0

The giant hawk killed and ate a squirrel in the back yard yesterday.

The picture of the hawk was taken after it ate the squirrel but before it was run off by the crows.

Deer track in the garden

Photo taken yesterday of a lone deer track after the big blizzard.

Coyotes in Muskego

http://www.mymuskegonow.com/news/111807994.html

Yes, we have coyotes.

And yes, they are predators.

Plant swarms

http://www.sciencenews.org/view/generic/id/67424/title/Rooting_for_swarm_intelligence_in_plants

Interesting speculation.

Would make a good sci-fi movie.

Plants are people, too.

People for the Ethical Treatment of Plants?

Compost Gardening

http://www.compostgardening.com/

Sun Chips bags, biochar, and many other interesting topics.

Glowing plants

http://www.adn.com/2010/12/08/1595224/will-glowing-plants-light-arctic.html

Genetically engineered plants that glow in the dark?

I want to try them.

Clay-fighting plants

The "Big Four" list of clay-fighting plants: marigolds, mints, chrysanthemums, and culinary sage.

- Gardening in Clay Soil (1995) by Sara Pitzer

Congesta

Hedera helix 'Congesta'

http://www.finegardening.com/item/17044/an-unusual-english-ivy

Zone 5.

Mystery creature in the garden

Some creature just ran through the woodland garden.

It is pretty dark, but there is snow cover.

I think it was a fox, but I am not 100% sure.

Beekeeping, Or Lack Thereof

Thanks to Nancy for sending me this link.

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/12/09/garden/09Bees.html?pagewanted=1&_r=1&emc=eta1

This is fine for people who are lucky enough to live in enlightened communities, but for those of us living in ignorant medieval villages, not so good.

Another one bites the dust

Another mouse bit the big one last night.

Mountain Ash

http://www.adn.com/2010/12/01/1583324/mountain-ashs-magic-steeped-in.html

AKA Rowan

Makes me wish we had one.

Saffron

http://www.herbcompanion.com/herb-profile/grow-cook-heal-saffron.aspx?utm_content=12.07.10+HBC+split+A+(HTML)&utm_campaign=HBC_ENEWS&utm_source=iPost&utm_medium=email

An artisanal spice.

With its Zone 6 hardiness and its extreme drainage requirements, I could not grow it here.

Basil

http://www.herbcompanion.com/herbal-living/basil-herbal-lore-and-legends.aspx?utm_content=12.07.10+HBC+split+A+(HTML)&utm_campaign=HBC_ENEWS&utm_source=iPost&utm_medium=email

Fascinating article on the herbal lore of basil.

The next time I plant basil, I am going to do a lot of swearing and ranting.

Attracting Birds

http://www.organicgardening.com/feature/0,7518,s1-4-84-1393,00.html?cm_mmc=OGNews-_-2010_12_08-_-landscapoing-_-attracting_birds_in_winter

I like the idea of baking homemade treats for the birds.

Accent rocks in the garden

http://www.finegardening.com/item/17042/rock-on

This is an excellent example of how much difference just one good rock can make in a garden.

Two mice

Two mice bit the big one while we were in Michigan.

I would like to get a cat but allergies are a concern.

Garden art

http://www.finegardening.com/item/17145/reader-photo-mystery-flowers

Clever use of toilet tank floats in the garden.

Annie Hall

Thymus serpyllum 'Annie Hall'

http://www.finegardening.com/item/17079/reader-photo-a-lawn-of-thyme

Awesome photo.

We have had mixed success with growing thymes, but I would like to try this one.

Dutchman's Pipevine

http://www.hortmag.com/featured/dutchmans-pipevine?et_mid=34605&rid=2093016

We planted two and have high hopes for them.

Fairy Gardens

http://www.finegardening.com/item/17130/reader-photos-fairy-gardens-in-the-land-ofwashington

I am a big fan of whimsy in a garden.

Perennials in Pots in Winter

http://www.finegardening.com/how-to/qa/perennials-pots.aspx

Two zones colder, so for us, it would be Zone 3 plants.

Plants for Winter Interest

http://www.finegardening.com/design/articles/stretching-the-seasons.aspx

Interesting suggestions.

We already have some of these, like joe pye, culver's root, queen of the prairie, etc.

Deer in the garden

The two fawns were back around 9am this morning.

One was up close and the other was behind the back line.

North American Native Plant Society

http://www.nanps.org/

Native bees love native plants.

Mohican

Viburnum lantana 'Mohican'

http://www.soonerplantfarm.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=plants.plantDetail&plant_id=408

Viburnum lantana is considered an invasive in Wisconsin.

Deer in the garden

One of the fawns was eating off the picnic table at 6:40am this morning.

Too dark to take a picture from inside.

Gossler Farms Nursery

https://secure.gosslerfarms.com/home.php

Good selection of woodies and a book on hardy shrubs.

Deer in the garden

At 4:15pm, I inadvertently jumped the two fawns out of the woodland garden.

At 4:30pm, the doe and two fawns were back.

Unfortunately, I was inside, it was getting dark, and I still do not know how to use the phone camera.

One of the fawns is in this picture.

I guess you have to take my word for it.

Master gardeners vs. voles

http://www.mastergardeners.org/resources/animals/voles.html

The master gardeners are completely outnumbered.

They haven't got a chance.

Dead vole in the garden

There was a dead vole in the woodland garden this afternoon.

I am always curious about what would kill a vole and not eat it.

Maybe it just died of natural causes.

As per the following link, we should all be wary of The Vole Menace:

http://www.unitedwildlife.com/AnimalsVoles.html

Particularly the part about how the odor of dead voles can cause headaches and nausea.

Roy Davidson

Pulmonaria 'Roy Davidson'

http://www.waysidegardens.com/gardening/PD/43632/

I have had terrible luck with Pulmonaria but maybe I should try this one.

Cinnamon Flakes

Betula chinensis 'Cinnamon Flakes'

http://www.songsparrow.com/2010/plantdetails.cfm?ID=3273&type=WOODY,&pagetype=plantdetails

Makes me want to try growing a birch.

Foamflower

Tiarella cordifolia

http://www.hortmag.com/featured/foamflower-2

Alternative to garlic mustard.

Creepy Wintergreen

Gaultheria procumbens 'Very Berry'

http://www.heronswood.com/special-offer/gaultheria-procumbens-%27very-berry%27/

I have fond memories of eating wild wintergreen berries as a child.

I have tried to grow wintergreen and failed.

Maybe I should try again.

Rooguchi

Clematis 'Rooguchi'

http://www.waysidegardens.com/gardening/PD/46428

Zone 4 and tolerates part shade.

This would make a great addition to the vine collection.

Snow Storm

Hakonechloa macra 'Fubuki'

http://www.greatgardenplants.com/index.php?fa=PAGE.view&pageId=1146

New shade ornamental grass.

I want to try this.

Mail Order Natives

http://www.mailordernatives.com/servlet/StoreFront

Excellent selection of vines, trees, shrubs, etc.

Dwarf Chestnut Oak

Quercus prinoides

http://www.treetrail.net/quercus_prinoides.html

The dwarf habit and good fall color make this a great tree.

Paper Potter

http://www.tmseeds.com/product/Paper-Potter/Tools_and_Accessories?p=2403299&r=111710TM&utm_source=em&utm_medium=spec&lm=tmus

This could be a fun item.

Common Polypody

http://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/grasses/plants/cm_polypody.htm

This would make a welcome addition to our fern collection.

Its preference for sandstone habitats might be a problem in our heavy clay.

Gardening Allies

http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/4826/raising-animals-as-gardening-allies

This is great for those who are lucky enough to live in enlightened municipalities.

Those of us who live in ignorant medieval villages have to do without gardening allies.

Winter Compost

http://www.organicgardening.com/feature/0,7518,s1-3-79-1655,00.html?cm_mmc=OGNews-_-2010_11_10-_-compostandsoil-_-underground_compost_weathers_winter

Would make an interesting experiment.

Growing Herbs Indoors

http://www.organicgardening.com/10_herbs/index.html

I have tried this for many years and it is not a trivial undertaking.

Wild Ginger

Asarum canadense

http://www.hortmag.com/featured/wild-ginger

We love our wild ginger and have several clumps in the garden.

I did not know that it served as a host plant for the pipevine swallowtail butterfly.

Harry Lauder

http://www.paghat.com/hazelcatkins.html

Interesting information about Harry Lauder and the contorted filbert that is named for him.

Unfortunate that the twisted variety is a poor producer of nuts.

Hairy Potter's Walking Stick

http://www.hortmag.com/headline/harry-potters-walking-stick

Disrespecting Harry Lauder.

Corylus avellana 'Contorta'

We want one for the garden.

Coralberry

Symphoricarpos Xdoorenbos II
'Kordes' Amethyst TM

http://www.heronswood.com/shop/20328?cid=2010_11_12_ExceptionalPlantsforWinterColor&

Stunning show of fruit.

Raspberry Daiquiri

Agastache aurantiaca 'Raspberry Daiquiri'

http://www.tmseeds.com/product/Agastache-Aurantiaca-Raspberry-Daiquiri/Shop_New_Garden_Seed

I never met an Agastache I didn't like.

Cranes over the garden

Several flights of cranes over the garden again today, going south.

The largest group was about 100.

Wild Cucumber

Echinocystis lobata

http://wimastergardener.org/?q=WildCucumber

http://www.prairiemoon.com/seeds/wildflowers-forbs/echinocystis-lobata-wild-cucumber/?cat=272

I have had such poor luck with wild cucumber that I am ready to give up on it.

Mason Hollow Nursery

https://server12.lfchosting.com/Sandersen/index.asp

http://www.masonhollow.com/

Good selection of woodies including American Smoketree (Cotinus obovatus).

Lady In Red

Athyrium filix-femina

http://www.waysidegardens.com/gardening/AS/genus/Athyrium

We have one Lady in Red, but I would definitely like more.

Snow in the other garden

Paul sent this picture from the mansion today.

They obviously have more snow in that garden than we do in ours.

Very cold here (16 degrees this morning), but no snow.

Black Gum

Nyssa sylvatica

http://www.hort.net/profile/nys/nyssy/

Good fall color.

Ironwood

Ostrya virginiana

http://www.hortmag.com/featured/hop-hornbeam-ostrya-virginiana

Another good choice for the understory.

Mountain Maple

Acer spicatum

http://www.borealforest.org/shrubs/shrub1.htm

Would be a welcome addition to the understory.

Alternatives to Invasives

http://www.hortmag.com/weekly-tips/alternatives-to-invasives

Some interesting suggestions.

Wahoo

Euonymus atropurpureus

http://www.hortmag.com/plants/plant-profiles/the-wahoo-plant

Native alternative to burning bush.

Worm Power

http://www.harrisseeds.com/storefront/c-120-worm-power-harris-seeds.aspx?_cr=email|HGnews|monthly|10Nov

State-of-the-art worm compost.

Edible Forest Gardens

http://www.edibleforestgardens.com/

Edible Forest Gardens and Coppice Agroforestry.

What is next?

Hudson

Apios americana 'Hudson'

http://www.oikostreecrops.com/store/product.asp?cookiecheck=yes&P_ID=282&PT_ID=137&strPageHistory=cat

Interesting experiment for an edible forest garden.

Lil Miss Sunshine

Caryopteris 'Janice'

http://colorchoiceplants.com/lil_miss_sunshine.htm

Stunning combination of yellow leaves and blue flowers.

Scarlet Runner Pole Beans

http://www.burpee.com/vegetables/beans/runner/bean-scarlet-runner-pole-prod000599.html?catId=cat30004

Excellent red flowers.

Ruby Moon

Hyacinth Bean Vine 'Ruby Moon'

http://www.botanicalinterests.com/store/search_results_detail.php?seedtype=F&seedid=85

One of those wicked plants where the beans can be poisonous if not prepared correctly.

Definitely on my vine wish list for 2011.

Ladybug Loft

http://www.arbico-organics.com/product/ladybug-loft/garden-decor

Not sure if this is practical, but it would make great garden art.

Cardinal Climber

Ipomoea x multifida

http://www.parkseed.com/gardening/PD/3309/

On my vine wish list for 2011.

Czakor

Geranium macrorrhizum 'Czakor'

Available from Heronswood (link here)

I am always looking for another perennial Geranium.

Oak chair

http://www.finegardening.com/item/17128/reader-photo-lemonade-from-lemons

Very clever use of an oak stump.

Rain: 0.25"

We got 1/4" rain Wednesday night, just as predicted.

Garden art

http://www.finegardening.com/item/17067/paint-the-garden-red-or-greenor-blue

I never thought of spray painting dead trees.

Flaming Squirrel

http://www.gardengatestore.com/flaming-squirrel-sauce.html

Might be interesting to try Cole's Flaming Squirrel Seed Sauce.

Cranes over the garden

Several flights of cranes have flown over the garden today, heading south for winter.

The largest flight had about 50 birds in it.

I might not have noticed them if they were not making so much noise.

I could hear them before I could see them.

Rain: 5/8"

We got 5/8" rain yesterday.

Landscape Pesticide Registry

http://wimastergardener.org/?q=LandscapePesticideRegistry2009

Reminder to self: A renewal notice should arrive late November or early December.

Stink bugs

http://www.startribune.com/lifestyle/health/109920954.html?elr=KArksUUUezH_MDC7DaaDy_vDEh7P:DiU

Yet another invasive species.

Frogs in the Garden Pool

Three frogs in the garden pool today.

The forecast is for 23 degrees tonight.

Not seeing how this is going to work.

Douglas Maple

Acer glabrum

http://www.nwplants.com/business/catalog/ace_gla.html

Small, shade tolerant.

Northernmost maple?

Ceramic Stone Birdhouse

http://www.santarosagardens.com/Ceramic-Stone-Birdhouse-p/ag-210c.htm

This would be an interesting novelty item in the garden.

Bird House Dimensions

http://www.wild-bird-watching.com/Building_Bird_Houses.html

A good chart of birdhouse dimensions.

Ivory Prince

Helleborus 'Walhelivor'

http://www.heronswood.com/perennials-helleborus-hellebores/helleborus-ivory-prince/

Always interested in more hellebores.

Mason Bee Lodge

http://www.arbico-organics.com/product/mason-bee-lodge/garden-decor

Always good to provide cover for those important native pollinators.

Split Second

Ipomoea nil 'Split Second'

http://www.parkseed.com/gardening/PD/51464/

Impressive double-flowered morning glory.

Persian Ivy

Hedera colchica

http://www.waysidegardens.com/gardening/PD/44686/

Worth a try.

Bonsai moss

http://www.adn.com/2010/11/17/1560260/bonsai-moss-is-easy-to-cultivate.html

Another clever idea I never thought of.

Deer in the garden

Yesterday, there was one fawn in the garden in the morning (picture in a previous post).

Around noon, while I was out running errands, a neighbor called my cell phone to tell me that there was a doe and two fawns in the garden.

In the afternoon, I was working in the woodland garden. I went into the house for just a minute and when I went back outside, I inadvertently jumped two fawns out of the woodland garden.

Unprecedented to have three deer sightings in one day.

Deer in the garden

Look closely.

There is a small deer standing directly behind the picnic table.

Deer in the garden

There was a deer in the garden this morning, eating sunflower seeds off the picnic bench and table.

No pictures?

I grabbed the cell phone and could not get the camera to work (I have used it before).

I grabbed the scout camera, and at first I thought the batteries were dead but it turns out to be a more serious problem than that.

I grabbed the cell phone again and suddenly it worked and I took a couple of pictures.

Now I can't find a USB cable so I can transfer the pictures to the computer as per the following link:

http://www.technipages.com/copy-pictures-from-droid-x-to-computer.html

The USB cable for the scout camera does not fit the cell phone.

Oak Hickory vs. Beech Maple

http://www.longforestry.com/ManageOakHickory.html

Interesting observations on how an oak hickory forest can be replaced by a beech maple forest.

American Beech

Fagus grandifolia

http://www.blueplanetbiomes.org/american_beech.htm

Shallow roots and dense shade make it hard for the understory.

Ecoregional Planting Guides

http://www.pollinator.org/zip-map.test.htm?zipcode=53130

As per the above link, we are in the Eastern Broadleaf Forest (Continental) Province.

Nana Lutea

Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Nana Lutea'

Golden Dwarf Hinoki Cypress

http://www.monrovia.com/plant-catalog/plants/743/golden-dwarf-hinoki-cypress.php

Would make an interesting addition to the garden.

Hawk over the garden

One of the small hawks (Cooper's Hawk or Sharp-Shinned Hawk) flew over the garden this afternoon.

Snow Cypress

Chamaecyparis pisifera

http://www.backyardgardener.com/plantname/pda_b9f9.html

Gray green foliage tipped with white could be interesting.

Yellow Ribbon

Thuja occidentalis 'Yellow Ribbon'

Yellow Ribbon Arborvitae

http://www.monrovia.com/plant-catalog/plants/2161/yellow-ribbon-arborvitae.php

Can handle wet and some shade.

Would be an interesting addition to a woodland garden.

Hawk in the garden

There was a small hawk perched in the crabapple tree by the driveway this afternoon.

Cooper's Hawk or Sharp-Shinned Hawk.

Owl near the garden

We first heard and then saw an owl during our walk through the neighborhood last night.

Rain: 1/8"

1/8" rain last night.

Ancient Herbs

http://www.herbcompanion.com/growing/ancient-herbs-modern-uses.aspx

Seven ancient herbs:

Aloe
Flax
Frankincense
Garlic
Myrrh
Milk Thistle
Turmeric

Common Rue

Ruta graveolens

http://www.herbcompanion.com/in-the-herb-garden/ruta-graveolens-growing-common-rue.aspx

We could all use a little extra protection from evil.

Fall Fireworks

http://www.finegardening.com/design/articles/fall-fireworks.aspx

Excellent combos featuring some of my favorites such as ornamental grasses, chrysanthemums and sedums.

Unfortunately, since the author is in the Pacific Northwest, several of the plants are not hardy here in Zone 5.

Arizona Compacta

Abies lasiocarpa 'Arizona Compacta'

http://www.qscaping.com/NetPS-Engine.asp?CCID=20000010&page=pdp&PID=50

Good choice for a small garden.

Blue conifers

http://davesgarden.com/guides/articles/view/1755/

The article at the above link is actually about choices for Christmas trees, but it also serves as an excellent summary of blue conifers for the garden.

Gold Lace

Juniperus chinensis 'Gold Lace'

http://www.monrovia.com/plant-catalog/plants/230/gold-lace-juniper.php

Provides a good color contrast against greens.

Evergreen Nursery

http://www.evergreenplantnursery.com/

Tennessee.

Big selection of evergreen trees and shrubs.

Frogs in the Garden Pool

There were three frogs in the garden pool this afternoon.

I guess they did not get the memo about burrowing down into the mud for winter.

But it is around 50 degrees, so maybe they are waiting for colder weather.

Ground Nut

Apios americana

http://www.gardenvines.com/shop/other-species-9/apios-americana-24.html

Native vine, Zone 4.

Wild Yam

Dioscorea villosa

http://www.gardenvines.com/shop/other-species-9/dioscorea-villosa-242.html

Zone 4, shade.

John Clayton

Lonicera 'John Clayton'

http://www.gardenvines.com/shop/lonicera-honeysuckle-6/lonicera-john-clayton-277.html

Native honeysuckle vine, Zone 4, partial shade.

Blue Moon

Wisteria 'Blue Moon'

http://www.gardenvines.com/shop/other-species-9/wisteria-blue-moon-365.html

From a selection found in Minnesota.

Zone 5, tolerates partial shade.

Tangerine Beauty

Bignonia capreolata 'Tangerine Beauty'

Cross Vine

http://www.sunlightgardens.com/pages/1335.html

Tolerates some shade.

Native Vines

http://www.gardenvines.com/shop/native-vines-1/?zenid=578bdc341dd1fc1e1c8f4b6847f5e3ef

Interesting list of vines native to the US.

Clematis in dappled shade

http://www.finegardening.com/design/articles/shrubs-perennials-support-clematis-vines.aspx

Describes how some clematis thrive in dappled shade.

Consider Clematis 'Silver Moon' as a possibility.

Elegans

Ampelopsis brevipedunculata 'Elegans'

AKA Variegated Porcelain Berry Vine

http://www.forestfarm.com/product.php?id=463

"Likes shade."

Zepherine Drouhin

Rosa 'Zepherine Drouhin'

http://davesgarden.com/guides/articles/view/1203/

A shade tolerant climbing rose is definitely worth a try.

Vines for Wisconsin Shade

http://horticulturetalk.wordpress.com/2010/07/01/vines-for-shade/

The recommendations at the above link:

Trumpet vine (Campsis radicans)
Clematis
Climbing Hydrangea

Welcome

Ribes 'Welcome' (Gooseberry)

http://www.eat-it.com/plants.php?func=view&id=439

Grows well in shade.

Pink Gooseberry

http://www.millernurseries.com/cart.php?m=product_detail&p=305

Shade tolerant.

Jostaberry

http://www.millernurseries.com/cart.php?m=product_detail&p=303

A cross between a black currant and a gooseberry.

Hinnomaki Red

Ribes 'Hinnomaki Red' (Gooseberry)

http://www.naturehills.com/product/hinnomaki_red_gooseberry.aspx

Some sources mention that this cultivar is somewhat thorny.

Colossal

Ribes 'Colossal' (Gooseberry)

http://www.cyfernet.extension.umn.edu/distribution/horticulture/DG1122.html

Fruit up to 1.5" in diameter.

Selected in Mankato, Minnesota.

Invicta

Ribes 'Invicta' (Gooseberry)

http://www.fruit.cornell.edu/mfruit/gooseberries.html

Invicta may be the best gooseberry cultivar.

Poorman

http://tanyasgarden.blogspot.com/2010/03/poorman-rejuvenated.html

Interesting account of one gardener's adventures with Ribes 'Poorman' (Gooseberry).

Rain: 0.25"

1/4 inch rain today, just as predicted.

Raintree Nursery

http://www.raintreenursery.com/

Good source for gooseberries.

Black Gooseberry

http://www.fourthcornernurseries.com/PlantDetail.asp?Symbol=RIDI

Heavily thorned.

Currants and Gooseberries

http://plants.usda.gov/java/noxious?rptType=State&statefips=26

Currants and gooseberries are listed as plant pests in the state of Michigan.

Ribes divaricatum

http://www.laspilitas.com/nature-of-california/plants/ribes-divaricatum

The thorniest of the gooseberries.

Advanced Master Gardeners

http://www.advancedmastergardener.org/

When the efforts of Master Gardeners are not sufficient, go to the Advanced Master Gardeners.

MSU MGV

http://web1.msue.msu.edu/mastergardener/

Tons of information.

Tixia

Gooseberry 'Tixia'

http://www.noursefarms.com/catalog/Product/Gooseberries/RI-TX/Tixia%E2%84%A2.aspx

Described as semi-thornless at the above link.

Currants and Gooseberries

I attended the monthly MGV Brown Bag yesterday at the Milwaukee County Extension offices.

Dr. Robert Tomesh discussed currants and gooseberries.

He described them as underutilized and with great potential.

Judging from the number of questions at the end of the talk, there is a lot of interest in the topic.

Very informative and well worth attending.

Rotary Botanical Gardens

http://rotarygardens.blogspot.com/

Horticulture Blog.

Wandering Jew

Tradescantia zebrina

http://www.mobot.org/gardeninghelp/plantfinder/Plant.asp?code=D681

Easily grown as a houseplant.

Rain: Trace

Only a trace of rain last night.

Bunchberry

Cornus canadensis

http://www.rook.org/earl/bwca/nature/shrubs/cornuscan.html

I have tried and failed to grow bunchberry.

Soils that dry out and heat up in summer are a killer.

Maybe I should try again.

Hawk in the garden

A hawk the size of an eagle dropped onto the garden this morning.

It might have been a Sharp-Shinned Hawk.

It missed its target, which I think was a junco.

Addendum/Correction: It could not have been a Sharp-Shinned Hawk which is a small hawk.

Maybe it was a Ferruginous Hawk, which sometimes grows so large that it is mistaken for an eagle.

St. Clare Heirloom Seeds

http://www.stclareseeds.com/

They offer a good selection of seeds plus worm castings!

Caraway

http://www.everwilde.com/store/Caraway-Herb-Seeds.html

May be invasive, so I want to try some.

Biennial.

Chinese Lanterns

Physalis alkekengi

http://www.tmseeds.com/product/Physalis-Alkekengi/Shop_Perennial_Flower_Seed

I would like to try this one.

Jewels of Opar

Talinum paniculatum

AKA Fameflower

http://www.finegardening.com/plantguide/talinum-paniculatum-jewels-of-opar.aspx

Not hardy here but could be grown as an annual.

Would be great if it self-seeded.

Bulbs

Only a few bulbs planted this year compared to previous years.

The weather was good but other factors conspired against me.

(40) Leucojum aestivum
(40) Scilla siberica
(20) Daffodils 'Bell Song'
(20) Daffodils 'Ice Follies'
(40) Ornithogalum umbellatum
(1) Frittilaria 'Rubra Maxima'
(10) Hyacinthoides hispanica 'Excelsior'
(20) Daffodils (yellow from Hales Corners Farmers Market)
(10) Tulipa 'Renown'
(10) Allium moly
(10) Nectaroscordum silicum ssp. bulgaricum
(10) Tulipa 'White Dream'

231 bulbs total.

I am embarrassed by the small number.

Musser Forests

http://www.musserforests.com/default.htm

Interesting Nut Tree Special.

Not sure I have room for 25 nut trees.

But maybe they would not all survive.

Happiness Farms

http://www.happinessfarms.com/

Caladiums.

Chickens Make Great Neighbors

http://www.backyardpoultrymag.com/issues/4/4-2/chickens_make_great_neighbors.html

This story makes me wish that I lived in an enlightened community.

Backyard Poultry

http://www.backyardpoultrymag.com/

For those lucky persons who live in a community that has emerged from The Dark Ages.

Screech Owl Nest Box

http://gargravarr.cc.utexas.edu/owl/construction.html

Yet another feature that I should add to the garden.

Alleghany Pachysandra

Pachysandra procumbens

http://www.hort.uconn.edu/plants/p/pacpro/pacpro1.html

"Avoid heavy clay soils" makes it problematic here.

Algoflash fertilizer

http://www.parkseed.com/gardening/PD/9221/

Probably worth trying.

Winter Roost

http://www.gardensalive.com/product.asp?pn=0337&sid=0150683&eid=110810GA&utm_source=em&utm_medium=spec&lm=gard&b1&bhcd2=1289223218

We need a winter roosting box to provide cover for songbirds.

Hawks over the garden

This afternoon a Cooper's Hawk and a Sharp-Shinned Hawk flew over the garden.

Winter Aconite

http://www.dutchbulbs.com/store/specialtybulbs/26072

I have to make more of an effort next year to get some Winter Aconite.

Landscaping for Life

http://www.landscapeforlife.org/

Work with nature in your garden.

Frost Grass

Spodiopogon sibiricus

http://www.parkseed.com/gardening/PD/48910/

Maybe I can try some next year.

Hawk in the garden

The Cooper's Hawk was perched in the back yard for a few minutes this afternoon.

Rain: Trace

There was only a trace of precipitation yesterday.

It was a mix pf rain, sleet, and hail.

Lyme Disease

http://www.rodale.com/tick-prevention?cm_mmc=DailyNewsNL-_-2010_11_05-_-Top5-_-NA

Deer are an interesting link between the invasive Asian bush honeysuckles and the ticks that carry Lyme disease.

I have already removed the Asian bush honeysuckles from our yard, but they remain numerous in the neighborhood.

Teaming with Microbes

http://teamingwithmicrobes.com/

Excellent book.

Jeff Lowenfels is garden columnist for the Anchorage Daily News.

Gardening In Winter

http://www.adn.com/2010/11/03/1535477/invest-in-lights-to-keep-gardening.html

Sounds like a good diea.

Leaf Mulch

http://www.finegardening.com/how-to/videos/fall-leaves-make-great-natural-mulch.aspx

Sydney Eddison evangelizes leaves as mulch.

Betty Corning

Clematis 'Betty Corning'

http://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/69288/

In the above link, note the comment that one person has it growing in mostly mottled shade.

The following link describes the origins of the vine and the person it was named for:

http://areasonedlandscape.com/?p=927

And last but not least note that there is a lot of variation in the descriptions of hardiness, some as cold as 3 and some as warm as 6.

Anemonin in Clematis

http://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=cloco

Note the presence of the toxic principle Anemonin.

Native Vines

http://www.gardening-for-wildlife.com/vines-of-the-northeast.html

A number of interesting choices, more than I thought.

Bull's Blood

http://www.burpee.com/vegetables/beets/beet-bull-s-blood-prod000606.html

An heirloom beet.

It would be worth growing both as an ornamental and an edible.

Spearmint

Mentha spicata

http://www.parkseed.com/gardening/PD/1348?utm_source=lyris&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=101103-Seeds-from-Santa&utm_content=zone

I have never grown Spearmint from seed.

It might be fun to try it.

Superweeds

http://www.rodale.com/monsanto?cm_mmc=DailyNewsNL-_-2010_11_03-_-Top5-_-NA

The sad saga of Monsanto and the creation of superweeds.

Garden at MSU

http://www.finegardening.com/item/16842/pink-and-burgundy-for-fall

We grew some of that Japanese Blood Grass in a pot this year.

Next year, we should plant some in the ground.

Cat in the garden

There was a gray/white cat hunting along the back line this morning.

The squirrels were having apoplectic fits.

My regular cat is a tabby cat, which also gives the squirrels fits.

Herbs vs. Colds

http://www.rodale.com/cold-and-flu-remedies?page=0%2C0&cm_mmc=DailyNewsNL-_-2010_11_01-_-Top5-_-NA

I might have to stop sharing my elderberry fruit with the birds and selfishly hoard it for myself.

And maybe I am allergic to Echinacea. I have been blaming ragweed but we have a lot more coneflowers than ragweed in the garden.

Black Dragon

Coleus 'Black Dragon'

Available from Park Seed (link here)

Worth trying as a houseplant.

Prairie Moon Nursery

http://www.prairiemoon.com/seeds/wildflowers-forbs/echinocystis-lobata-wild-cucumber/?cat=251

As per the link, they even offer Echinocystis lobata seeds.

So it is a tough choice.

Give up on the wild cucumbers or order a hundred seeds?

Echinocystis lobata

I am amazed bordering on stupification that there is an entire book devoted to Echinocystis lobata.

Available through Amazon.com (link here).

Wild Cucumber

Echinocystis lobata

http://wisplants.uwsp.edu/scripts/detail.asp?Spcode=ECHLOB

I am ready to give up on this plant.

Again.

We had only one volunteer this year, and the stem got broken off before the fruit matured.

The stems are so fragile, and the germination rate is so poor that we cannot keep them going.

Brent and Becky

http://www.brentandbeckysbulbs.com/

A great source for bulbs.

Chocolate Vine

Akebia quinata

"An excellent ground cover for shady areas and woodland gardens."

http://www.mobot.org/gardeninghelp/plantfinder/Plant.asp?code=A149

I am even more convinced that I have to try this vine.

Vines for Shade

http://www.flower-gardening-made-easy.com/climbing-vines-for-shade.html

Unfortunately, a limited selection.

We have Virginia Creeper (in spite of the name, it is a Wisconsin native).

I would like to try the Akebia.

Victorian Peach

Clivia 'Victorian Peach'

http://www.whiteflowerfarm.com/26685-product.html

If I had a greenhouse and a lot more experience, maybe I could go $475 for a single plant.

But probably not.

Pole Mount for Bat House

http://www.batmanagement.com/Batcentral/boxbuild/Polemount.html

Sounds simple enough.

But the first casualty of any battle is the plan.

Glasshouse Works

http://www.glasshouseworks.com/

Interesting section on Glasshouse Works in the book Paradise Under Glass (2010) by Ruth Kassinger.

Neptune's Harvest

http://www.neptunesharvest.com/index.html

They feature some interesting products like fish and seaweed fertilizers, kelp meal, and crab shell.

Roy Davidson

Pulmonaria 'Roy Davidson'

http://www.waysidegardens.com/gardening/PD/43632/

I have tried and failed with Pulmonaria for years, but maybe this is the one that would work.

Lady In Red

Athyrium 'Lady in Red'

http://www.waysidegardens.com/gardening/AS/genus/Athyrium

We have one Lady in Red, but I would like to have more.

Ros Creasy

http://www.garden.org/ediblelandscaping/?page=201011-ros-creasy-interview

The Guru of Edible Landscaping.

I want to read her book Edible Landscaping (2010).

Hawk in the garden

The Cooper's Hawk flew through the garden today.

It would be nice if it would do something about all the voles.

Owl near the garden

We saw an owl in the neighborhood on our walk last night.

I think it might have been a barn owl, but they have become somewhat rare in the area in recent years.

Vietnamese Coriander

http://www.mountainvalleygrowers.com/polodoratum.htm

Polygonum odoratum

I have a pot that grew outside all summer.

I have brought it into the kitchen for the winter but it probably needs repotted.

Maybe I can grow some cutting as per the following link.

http://joes-garden.blogspot.com/2010/01/laksa-leaf-polygonum-odoratum.html

Runaway Gardens

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/10/28/garden/28garden.html?pagewanted=1&_r=1&emc=eta1

An interesting story, but it ends abruptly like they inadvertently omitted the rest of it.

Switch grass

Panicum virgatum

http://www.mobot.org/gardeninghelp/plantfinder/plant.asp?code=L460

Was an important constituent of the tallgrass prairie.

Manchurian Violet

Viola mandshurica

Available from Oikos Tree Crops (link here)

I would like to try a few, both growing and eating.

Amur Silvergrass

Miscanthus sacchariflorus

Available from Oikos Tree Crops (link here)

Aptly named, those silvery plumes are striking.

As per the following link, may be invasive.

http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/invasives/terrestrialplants/grasses/amursilvergrass.html

Trees for fall color

http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/fea/home/stories/DN-nhg_falltrees_1106gd.State.Edition1.11eb74e.html

The above article was written for a Texas audience, but some of the recommendations are hardy in Zone 5.

Orangeola

http://www.rainyside.com/features/plant_gallery/shrubs/Acer_palmatumOrangeola.html

Acer palmatum 'Orangeola'

Weeping Japanese maple with gorgeous fall color.

Shumard Red Oak

http://www.arborday.org/Shopping/Trees/TreeDetail.cfm?id=215

Mainly a southern oak in terms of range, but hardy to zone 5.

Great fall color.

Tree Transplanters

http://www.treetransplanters.org/index.html

Milwaukee area tree nursery.

Woolybear

http://www.butterfliesandmoths.org/species?l=3742

Several woolybear caterpillars in the garden this autumn, as usual.

Bulb Planting Depths

http://www.hortmag.com/weekly-tips/bulb-planting-depths

Some general guidelines.

Rain: 0.5"

Half an inch of rain last night.

Rain: 1.25"

We got 1.25" rain while we were in Baltimore, much more than was predicted.

Good for the frogs because the garden pool did not go dry while we were gone.

Grapevine cuttings

http://ohioline.osu.edu/b919/0006.html

This would be an interesting experiment to try some time.

Rain: Trace

It sounded like it rained hard for a few seconds last night, but it only amounted to a trace.

Globe Cage Birdfeeder

Available from Gardener's Supply Company (link here)

"Especially effective against gray squirrels."

There are not many feeders that are actually effective against gray squirrels.

Peat Moss

http://www.dirtdoctor.com/organic/garden/view_question/id/1800/

I am a big user of peat moss in the garden.

I might have to re-think this.

Roosting boxes

http://yardener.com/YardenersPlantHelper/MakingForAHealthyYardEcology/AttractingBirdsToTheYard/HousingForSongbirds/DontForgetRoostingBoxes

An important element of cover that is lacking in our garden.

Sudden Oak Death

http://www.backyardnature.net/n/w/tanoak.htm

Not good.

Pulverulentum

Acer campestre 'Pulverulentum'

AKA Speckled Hedge Maple

http://www.forestfarm.com/product.php?id=71

Would make a nice small tree.

Creepy Veronica

http://www.marthastewart.com/plant/veronica-repens

Veronica repens

AKA Creeping Speedwell

I planted one between the big ash and the front sidewalk today.

Job's Tears

http://davesgarden.com/guides/articles/view/1714/

Coix lacryma-jobi

Not hardy here, but could be grown as an annual.

Survivalist Seeds

http://www.survivalistseeds.com/

Interesting website.

They have no love for Monsanto.

Buried Treasure

http://www.organicgardening.com/feature/0,7518,s1-5-16-1929,00.html?cm_mmc=OGNews-_-2010_10_13-_-growingatoz-_-garlic_buried_treasure

Growing garlic is on my long list of things to do.

Butterfly Weed

http://www.hortmag.com/headline/butterfly-weed

We have one nice clump next to the front sidewalk but I would love to have more.

It requires full sun and sandy soil and we have neither.

Soil Perfector

http://www.espoma.com/p_consumer/perfector_overview.html

I could make great use of a product that permanently improves heavy clay soils.

Indian Pink

Spigelia marilandica

http://www.finegardening.com/item/16439/a-stunning-underused-native-plant

Zone 5.

I really should try some in the woodland garden.

Soil Fertility

Soil Fertility, Second Edition

1997

Henry D. Foth
Boyd G. Ellis

http://books.google.com/books?id=URT1qVstE0kC&printsec=frontcover&dq=soil+and+fertility&source=bll&ots=csirTT7Usu&sig=LtaMNBLyTZX-lHPxUd-sB1HlNoc&hl=en&ei=uw21TKTAF8T6lwfnoqmVCw&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=12&sqi=2&ved=0CEsQ6AEwCw#v=onepage&q&f=false

This looks like an excellent book.

Unfortunately, there is no copy in the MCFLS.

Oehme

Carex muskingumensis 'Oehme'

AKA Palm Sedge

http://www.northcreeknurseries.com/index.cfm/fuseaction/plants.plantDetail/plant_id/360/index.htm

I planted one on the south side of the garden pool today.

It is interesting to note that several web sites list it as Zone 5 but the tag in the pot said Zone 4.

Wood's Purple

Aster dumosus 'Wood's Purple'

http://www.daytonnursery.com/encyclopedia/perennials/aster.htm

Compact habit and hardy to Zone 3.

I planted one today out by Andrew's tree.

Threadleaf Bluestars

Amsonia hubrichtii

AKA Arkansas Blue Star

http://www.romencegardens.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=plants.plantDetail&plant_id=119

Also recommended by Monches Farm for its fall color.

http://www.monchesfarm.com/FEATUREamsoniahubrichtii.htm

Annual Clary Sage

Salvia viridis

http://www.finegardening.com/plantguide/salvia-viridis-annual-clary-sage.aspx

Would love to grow this but we do not have full sun.

Viburnum Leaf Beetle

http://www.hort.cornell.edu/VLB/

Another invasive, non-native species.

Goldenrod

http://www.garden.org/regional/report/arch/inmygarden/3585

Glorious fall blooms.

Autumn Containers

http://www.finegardening.com/design/articles/planting-autumn-containers.aspx

Use plants hardy to two zones colder.

Invasive barberries

Berberis thunbergii

http://www.finegardening.com/item/16334/invasive-barberries-to-be-phased-out-by-connecticut-nurseries

I should try to buy a few before they totally disappear.

Borage

Borago officinalis

http://www.parkseed.com/gardening/PD/0337/

We had borage volunteers this year for the first time.

Peppermint

Mentha x piperita

http://www.parkseed.com/gardening/PD/1347/

We love our peppermint.

Matrona

Sedum 'Matrona'

http://www.rainyside.com/features/plant_gallery/perennials/SedumMatrona.html

I planted a Sedum 'Matrona' today.

Toad in the garden

There was a very light colored toad in the garden yesterday, back near Elizabeth's trees.

Had not seen a toad in quite a while.

American Chestnut

Seeds available from Oikos Tree Crops (link here)

A chance to bring back the fabled American Chestnut.

Well, sort of....

Tremetol

http://iowagarden.blogspot.com/2006/08/wildflower-that-killed-lincolns-mother.html

The milk sickness killed Lincoln's mother.

Eupatorium rugosum (white snakeroot)

Tree Selector

http://urbanext.illinois.edu/treeselector/

A lot of fun to play around with.

Trees Are The Answer

http://www.jfschmidt.com/treesaretheanswer/

Tons of information on trees.

Feed the Birds

http://www.rodale.com/backyard-bird-food?cm_mmc=DailyNewsNL-_-2010_10_07-_-Top5-_-NA

Tips on feeding the birds.

Earthworms Fact Sheet

http://www.heyne.com.au/gardencentre/factsheets/factsheet.php/Earthworms.htm

Fascinating.

Suburban Earthworms

http://earthworm.blat.co.za/

Interesting blog that appears to be inactive.

Earth Worm Digest

http://www.wormdigest.org/

Earthworm information.

Seed Libraries

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/10/07/garden/07seed.html?emc=eta1

Small groups of dedicated individuals pathetically struggle to preserve heirloom seeds.

Chicken Sanitation

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/10/07/business/07eggfarm.html?th&emc=th

If I had chickens, I would want their droppings to smell sweet, like chocolate.

Like those of Robert L. Krouse.

Granite

http://www.finegardening.com/item/16539/reader-photo-small-lot-big-garden

Gorgeous granite stone pario.

Homemade Outhouse

http://www.ehow.com/how_5941224_make-homemade-outhouse.html

Would be a fun project for a garden shed.

Beware Consternation

"I will try my best to be forthright and informative, but to do so I will leave out many of the finer details that would otherwise cause consternation on both our parts."

- Insects and Gardens (2001) by Eric Grissell, writing about Parasitoids on page 192.

Parasitoids can have that effect on some people.

Excellent book.

Chickens, or lack thereof

http://www.ajc.com/news/cherokee/commissioners-approve-backyard-chickens-662067.html

This proves that Cherokee County, Georgia is more enlightened than Hales Corners, Wisconsin.

Grow Japanese Maples from Seed

http://www.freeplants.com/free-article-japanese-maples-from-seed.htm

Interesting idea.

Many snobby Japanese Maples are grafted.

Waterperry

Veronica 'Waterperry'

http://www.bluestoneperennials.com/b/bp/VEWBS.html

I planted one in the front yard this afternoon.

Rabbit in the garden

There was a large rabbit in the Maple Garden this morning.

Morning Light

Miscanthus sinensis 'Morning Light'

http://www.finegardening.com/plantguide/miscanthus-sinensis-morning-light-eulalia-grass.aspx

The limiting factor is going to be wet clay in winter.

Fall Pruning

http://www.rodale.com/fall-pruning?cm_mmc=DailyNewsNL-_-2010_10_01-_-Top5-_-NA

Good idea to wait until trees and shrubs are truly dormant.

Flame Grass

Miscanthus sinensis purpurascens

http://www.directgardening.com/detail.asp?ProductID=7444

We see quite a bit of this in the Milwaukee area.

Stunning ornamental grass.

Graziella Maiden Grass

Miscanthus sinensis 'Graziella'

http://www.bluestem.ca/miscanthus-graziella.htm

Sounds a little iffy for our garden, but it might still be worth a try.

Frost Grass

Spodiopogon sibiricus

http://hcs.osu.edu/hort/plantlisting/s/Spodiopogon12705.html

There is a nice clump at Gus' Green Thumb Garden.

It will be interesting to see if it develops the good fall color.

Wisconsin's Harmless Snakes

http://www.mpm.edu/collections/pubs/vertebrates/harmless/

Very interesting.

I wish I had a few in the garden.

Five-lined Skink

http://dnr.wi.gov/eek/critter/reptile/fivelinedskink.htm

Uncommon in Wisconsin and I have never seen one in the garden.

Orchids

http://www.charleysgreenhouse.com/index.cfm?page=_orchidsinthehome

I should probably try to grow one as a houseplant.

Gil over the ground

http://freeplants.com/creeping%20charlie.html

AKA Creeping Charley

Noxious weed or excellent groundcover.

Used by Europeans for brewing ale before the switch to hops.

How to Compost Pond Algae

http://www.gardenguides.com/96546-compost-pond-algae.html

We have had almost no pond algae this year.

Who was Vera Jameson?

http://www.rainyside.com/features/plant_gallery/perennials/SedumVeraJameson.html

She discovered Sedum 'Vera Jameson' as a chance seedling, but who was she?

Raccoons in the garden at night

108 pictures on the scout camera last night.

Most of them were of raccoons.

Chaste Tree

Vitex agnus-castus

http://www.floridata.com/ref/v/vitex_a.cfm

Good butterfly magnet, but not hardy here in Zone 5.

Monarch Watch

http://www.monarchwatch.org/

I applied to have our garden certified as a monarch waystation.

National Wildlife Federation

https://www.nwf.org/

I applied to have our yard certified as a wildlife habitat.

Nylon Log Carrier

Available from Plow & Hearth (link here)

Would also make a good general purpose garden bag.

MGV Brown Bag

On Friday, I attended the monthly MGV Brown Bag at the Milwaukee County Extension offices.

The topic was "Winterizing Gardens."

It was a wide ranging discussion with a lot of good Q & A at the end.

Well worth attending.

Next month's topic is "Beneficial Insects."

Dinosaur Kale

Brassica oleracea

Seeds available from Amazon.com (link here) and (link here).

Joe Pye

http://www.hortmag.com/featured/joe-pye-weed

We love Joe Pye.

Wasps vs. ash borers

http://www.startribune.com/local/103556174.html?elr=KArksUUUU

Nothing could possibly go wrong.

Wisconsin Scenic Byway 60

http://www.lowerwisconsinriverroad.com/

Any road featuring a plaque commemorating author and editor August Derleth is worth driving.

And it looks like there might be some good rocks along the way.

And the garden could use a few more accent pieces.

Kickapoo Indian Caverns

http://www.kickapooindiancaverns.com/

The largest onyx cave in Wisconsin.

I sure wish I had a few accent pieces of onyx in the garden.

Horticulture

http://hort.uwex.edu/

Lots of good information.

Rain: 0.5"

1/2 inch rain last night.

Will probably have to run the well into the garden pool to keep it full.

The garden is so dry that it sponged up all the rain.

Gazing globe

http://www.finegardening.com/item/16441/another-gazing-globe-done-right

We do not have a gazing globe in the garden.

Yet.

Hummingbird

There was a female hummingbird in the garden today.

Frog in the garden pool

There was a frog in the garden pool today, so at least one survived my long absence.

Rain: 1.5"

There was 1.5" of rain in the gauge after my long absence.

Some probably evaporated.

Backyard Bird Paradise

http://www.rodale.com/bird-friendly-yard?cm_mmc=DailyNewsNL-_-2010_09_21-_-Top5-_-NA

Good advice.

Real Dirt

http://www.kendruse.typepad.com/

I hope to see Ken Druse at the Boerner Botanical Garden one of these days.

Lynden Sculpture Garden

http://www.lyndensculpturegarden.org/

I would like to visit them.

Lawnless Front Yard

http://www.finegardening.com/design/articles/designing-a-lawnless-front-yard.aspx

Excellent garden.

I agree that omitting the lawn gives more room to garden.

Native Bulbs

http://www.organicgardening.com/feature/0,7518,s1-4-75-1733,00.html

Would love to plant some native bulbs.

Trees

http://www.gardenershub.com/product/keepers-of-the-trees/books/?r=HTWB44A&p=HTWB44A

Looks like an interesting book.

Planting a Tree

http://www.urbansustainableliving.com/how-to-plant-a-tree-the-right-way.html

I continue to disagree with the shallow hole method of tree planting.

The tree must be planted at the correct height in the hole, but I fail to see why the hole should be shallow.

A deeper hole encourages deeper rooting.

And as someone who has dug out a lot of tree roots, I know that trees grow deep roots if they can.

Deadheading

http://www.urbansustainableliving.com/deadheading.html

A good summary.

Hank Aaron State Trail

http://www.hankaaronstatetrail.org/

http://dnr.wi.gov/org/land/parks/specific/hank_aaron/

A great place to see native plants.

The Case for Real Plants

http://plant-quest.blogspot.com/2010/09/case-for-real-plants.html

I am a plant person.

No dogs allowed

http://www.suite101.com/content/common-poisonous-plants-affecting-dogs-and-cats-a180373

In the Plymouth garden, we have several bad actors:

Yew
Lily of the valley
Ivy
Deadly nightshade

Dogs beware.

Dry molasses as an organic fertilizer

http://www.dirtdoctor.com/organic/garden/view_question/id/2156/

Very interesting.

Waterfalls

http://therealnorth.com/waterfalls.html

Might get some gardening inspiration at such places.

Wayward garden gnomes

http://www.miamiherald.com/2010/09/16/1827769/10-wayward-garden-gnomes-found.html

It is an X-Files case.

Beware Stinkbugs

http://www.rodale.com/stink-bugs?cm_mmc=DailyNewsNL-_-2010_09_16-_-Top5-_-NA

Already in Wisconsin.

Alfalfa Meal Organic Fertilizer

http://www.organicgardeninfo.com/alfalfa-meal.html

I am having some trouble finding a local source for products like this.

Fall Lawn Care

http://www.rodale.com/fall-lawn-care?cm_mmc=DailyNewsNL-_-2010_09_14-_-Top5-_-NA

Helpful hints.

No-till gardening

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/09/09/garden/09garden.html?emc=eta1

Many advantages.

Nectar of the Gods

Solanum quitoense

http://www.anniesannuals.com/plt_lst/lists/general/lst.gen.asp?prodid=993

Would make an interesting novelty plant grown as an annual in a whiskey barrel.

Prides Corner Farms

http://www.pridescorner.com/index.html

Some stunning offerings scheduled for 2011.

Gladiolus

http://www.sunfarm.com/picks/gladiolusxgandavensis-123105.phtml

Perennial in zone 5.

I would like to try these.

Fall Leaves

http://www.gardeners.com/Put-Fall-Leaves-to-Work/5402,default,pg.html

Interesting article on shredding and using fall leaves.

Pee bale

http://www.guardian.co.uk/lifeandstyle/gardening-blog/2009/nov/13/composting-urine

Eco-friendly public urination.

Kris Plant

Alocasia sanderiana

http://www.plantoftheweek.org/week030.shtml

Striking foliage plant.

How to buy compost

http://www.rodale.com/buying-compost?page=0%2C0

Some interesting observations on store-bought compost.

Keeping your soil healthy

http://www.rodale.com/garden-cleanup?cm_mmc=DailyNewsNL-_-2010_09_03-_-Top5-_-NA

Some good advice on cover crops and mulches.

Fox in the garden

There was a fox in the garden this morning around 730am, running east along the south line.

Chickens, or lack thereof

http://www.rodale.com/urban-chickens?cm_mmc=DailyNewsNL-_-2010_09_01-_-Top5-_-NA

Yes, several excellent reasons to keep chickens.

Too bad for those of us who live in ignorant backwaters that do not allow chickens.

Golden Spirit

Cotinus coggyria 'Golden Spirit'

Smoke Bush

http://www.heronswood.com/shrubs_shrubs-a-to-h_cotinus/cotinus-coggygria-golden-spirit/

On our wish list.

Diabolo

Physocarpus opulifolius 'Diabolo'

Ninebark

http://www.mobot.org/gardeninghelp/plantfinder/plant.asp?code=A256

On our wish list.

Woody Plants for Wildlife

http://www.boernerbotanicalgardens.org/support/e3-2.html

http://www.4slandscapes.biz/index.html

We attended the garden walk this evening at Boerner Botanical Gardens.

The topic was Woody Plants for Wildlife.

The guide was Matt Singer from Four Season Landscapes.

Entertaining and informative.

Rain: 3/4" + 3/4"

3/4" rain last night.

And an additional 3/4" rain today.

The Monarch Trail

http://www.themonarchtrail.org/

We continue to have a few Monarchs in the garden.

Dogs and Gardens

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/08/26/garden/26garden.html?pagewanted=1&_r=1&emc=eta1

Very pessimistic story about dogs and gardens.

Monarch Waystations

http://monarchwatch.org/waystations/

We have a few monarch-friendly plants, but we could do more.

Soil Munsell Colors

http://www.munsellstore.com/

Munsell colors are a standardized terminology for describing the color of soils.

Very interesting.

Bug of the Week

http://www.raupplab.umd.edu/?bow

Tons of information.

Physarum polycephalum

http://genomeold.wustl.edu/genome.cgi?GENOME=Physarum%20polycephalum

I would love to have some in my garden.

I have a damp shady area in a temperate forest, so I am not sure what the problem is.

Restricted Slime Molds

http://www.connecticutvalleybiological.com/slime-mold-organism-set-p-11232.html?zenid=b27706450c30a92395cc6890cacffa51

Unfortunately, they only sell fungal cultures to institutions.

Connecticut Biological Supply

http://www.connecticutvalleybiological.com/milkweed-bug-assortment-p-10824.html?zenid=b27706450c30a92395cc6890cacffa51

For those of you not fortunate enough to have your own Large Milkweed Bugs, you can buy them from Connecticut Biological Supply.

Dead chickadee in the garden

There was a dead chickadee in the maple garden yesterday.

No signs of trauma, died of natural causes, I guess.

Large Milkweed Bug

Oncopeltus fasciatus

http://bugguide.net/node/view/504

http://www.life.illinois.edu/ib/109/Insect%20rearing/milkweedbug.html

We have a nice crop of these bugs on our swamp milkweed plant.

Bug Guide

http://bugguide.net/node/view/15740

I need massive amounts of help identifying all of the strange creepy crawlies in the garden.

What is that bug?

http://www.whatsthatbug.com/

I wish I had taken more insect biology classes at Michigan State University.

Crayon-Bright Self-Watering Pots

http://www.gardeners.com/Colorful-Pot/PotsPlanters_SelfWateringPlanters,39-145,default,cp.html

These pots would add an element of fun to the garden.

And the self-watering feature might be very practical.

Four Arm Plant Hangar

http://www.gardeners.com/Four-Arm-Plant-Hanger/38-920,default,pd.html

I would like to try one of these.

I am sceptical due my past experience with sturdy looking metalware that bends under a load.

Buckthorn

Rhamnus 'Fine Line'

http://www.greatgardenplants.com/index.php?fa=PAGE.view&pageId=138

I am always amazed when I see this ferny buckthorn that is so very different than our Die Buckthorn Scum! varieties.

Rain: 1"

One inch of rain last night, which was the forecast.

Blood Flower

Asclepias curassavica

http://www.mobot.org/gardeninghelp/plantfinder/plant.asp?code=C376

We bought two small pots of blood flower at Hawks' Nursery last weekend.

Not sure what I should do with them after reading the above link.

Maybe repot them for use as houseplants.

Dragonflies

http://www.jsonline.com/news/milwaukee/100278344.html

We need more dragonflies to eat all the mosquitoes.

We have a few dragonflies in the garden, but they are very territorial.

Birch Bark Cherry

Prunus serrula

http://www.backyardgardener.com/plantname/pd_58b6.html

Striking bark but a very narrow hardiness range (6-8).

Wisconsin Granite

http://www.wisconsingranitedepot.com/

This might be a source for a few accent pieces for the garden.

I particularly like how they say granite forms deep within the earth's core.

Maybe they meant crust.

Rain: Trace

Only a trace of rain last night.

Life Finds A Way

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/08/19/garden/19garden.html?pagewanted=1&_r=1&emc=eta1

Out of a flood, a new garden rises.

I particularly liked the part about how she does not miss her late husband.

Garden Spider

There was a beautiful garden spider at Gus' Green Thumb Garden today.

It was probably a black & yellow argiope.

http://www.uwex.edu/ces/wihort/landscape/gardenspiders.htm

Catchfly

Silene armeria

http://www.wildflowerinformation.org/Wildflower.asp?ID=66

One of the neighbors is a huge fan of Catchfly, so I am going to have to try it.

Three Frogs in the Garden Pool

Three frogs in the garden pool today.

How do they survive the nightly visits by raccoons?

Fawns in and around the garden

On Saturday, we saw several fawns with spots as we drove through Whitnall Park.

Then Sunday morning, we saw a doe and a small fawn with spots in the back yard.

Hot Hungarian from the garden

Last night, I ate a Hot Hungarian pepper from the garden.

So spicy it was right at the limit of what I could eat.

It was from a plant that I bought at the New Berlin Farmers Market.

Rain: 0.25"

1/4" rain last night.

Dog vomit

I have never had slime molds growing in my garden but would dearly love to have some.

There are several fine specimens at Gus' Green Thumb Garden.

According to the following link, many people do not enjoy their slime molds.

http://botit.botany.wisc.edu/toms_fungi/june99.html

Variegated Kiwi Vine

Actinidia kolomikta

http://www.heronswood.com/drought-resistant-perennials/actinidia-kolomikta-djh-398/

Would love to have one.

Variegated Northern Sea Oats

Chasmanthium 'River Mist'

http://www.greatgardenplants.com/index.php?fa=PAGE.view&pageId=958

Would love to have some.

New for 2010.

Wild Boar Farms

http://www.wildboarfarms.com/index_1.html

Home of tomato inventor Brad Gates.

Drought-tolerant Groundcovers

http://www.hortmag.com/article/lowwatergroundcovers

I would like to try the bearberry (Zone 3) and the creeping lily-turf (Zone 4).

False sunflower

Heliopsis helianthoides

http://www.hortmag.com/article/falsesunflower

Zone 3, drought tolerant.

A lot to like about this plant.

Shrimp plant

http://www.floridata.com/ref/j/just_bra.cfm

We saw some outstanding examples at State Fair today.

Zone 8, so obviously has to be grown as an annual or a houseplant.

Rain: 7/8"

7/8" rain Sunday night.

Rain: 0.5"

Half an inch of rain Saturday night.

Late summer garden projects

http://www.rodale.com/summer-backyard-garden-projects

I like the idea of:

1) plant garlic
2) plant garlic
3) plant garlic

On Bats

http://www.heronswoodvoice.com/2010/08/batman-h-c-heg-on-bats/

Interesting little essay on bats.

Reinforces my belief that I should put up one or more bat houses in the garden.

Blithewold Arboretum

http://www.blithewold.org/

Maybe I can visit this destination if I ever find myself in Bristol, Rhode Island.

Rain: 3/4"

3/4" rain here Friday night while I was in Michigan.

Late vegetable gardens

http://www.rodale.com/tomato-blight-1?page=0%2C0&cm_mmc=DailyNewsNL-_-2010_07_29-_-Top5-_-NA

Some interesting advice for restarting a vegetable garden, or getting a late start on one.

A Creative Solution

http://www.garden.org/regional/report/arch/inmygarden/3518

A creative solution to the problem of excess water kicked out by sump pumps.

Nutri-Cal

http://www.nutri-cal.com/home-garden.html

Calcium in liquid form.

Might be worth trying.

Lawn care

http://www.rodale.com/green-lawn-care?page=0%2C0&cm_mmc=DailyNewsNL-_-2010_07_28-_-Top5-_-NA

Some interesting tips on lawn care.

Rain: 1"

One inch of rain last Friday night,

Sweet Cicely

Thanks to Nancy for calling my attention to this story.

"But nothing could top the tea we steeped from a dozen clover heads and a pinch of sweet cicely. It smelled like a tide pool; it tasted worse."

- NY Times (link here)

But I love my sweet cicely as an ornamental herb.

Worm composting

http://lancaster.unl.edu/pest/resources/vermicompost107.shtml

Note that worms might have a problem with garlic and onions.

Also note that some gritty material is desirable.

Corpse flower

http://www.startribune.com/local/99099809.html?elr=KArksUUUU

Unfortunately, it is not winter hardy.

It would make a superb addition to the garden.

Rain and more rain

6.25" rain since yesterday morning.

Catastrophic flooding throught the Milwaukee area.

We had some water in the basement because the sump pump was overwhelmed but it has since caught up.

More heavy rain forecast for tonight.

Two frogs in the garden pool

For the last few days, there have been two frogs in the garden pool.

Reminder to self: Plant more cover around the garden pool.

Moneywort, mint, and chameleon plant would be a good start.

Organic Gardening blog

http://organicgardening.com/blogs/overthefence/

Another reminder to read the blogs from Organic Gardening magazine.

Rain: 3"

Three inches of rain here in Hales Corners while we were in Michigan last week.

Weston's Antique Apples

http://www.westonapples.com/

Yet another local (New Berlin) nursery that I never heard of.

Milwaukee apple

http://www.jsonline.com/features/food/97811819.html

Interesting article on heirloom apple varieties.

'Milwaukee' apple trees have been planted at the Stahl-Conrad Homestead in Hales Corners.

Deer in the garden

One deer in the garden today just before dusk.

Rain: 1.25"

Two short violent thunderstorms this afternoon.

0.5" and 0.75" for a total of 1.25"

Urban Honey

Thanks to Nancy for calling this story to my attention.

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/07/07/opinion/07Raffles.html?_r=1&emc=eta1

One wonders how many more decades will pass before Hales Corners leaves the medieval age.

Rain: 5/8"

There was an additional 5/8" rain Sunday morning.

Rain: 7/8"

7/8" rain last night.

Rain: 3/8"

3/8" rain Friday night.

Bloch's Farm

http://blochsfarm.com.farming.officelive.com/default.aspx

Would make a good road trip.

Monrovia

We attended the adult education class at Boerner this afternoon.

The presenter was Nicholas Staddon of Monrovia.

The topic was new introductions.

We won a $200 japanese maple as a door prize.

I planted it this afternoon and will try to get a picture up tomorrow.

Hummingbird in the garden

There was a hummingbird working the bee balm in front of the living room window this afternoon.

Tiny toad in the garden

A miniature toad was near the western rain barrel this afternoon.

Smaller than a dime.

Hop Tree

Ptelea trifoliata

Out of stock at Forest Farm (link here)

This Wisconsin native has a reputation as a good understory tree.

St. John's Wort

Today is St. John's Day (celebrating his birthday).

So I burned St. John's Wort picked fresh from the garden.

I am having trouble finding any decent online references for the beneficial effects but the following link refers to banishing evil:

http://www.conjure.com/incensebk.html

I have read somewhere that it was supposed to bring good luck in the coming year but I cannot find that reference now.

Rain: 3/8"

3/8" rain last night.

Rain: 2.5"

2.5" rain Tuesday night, again far in excess of what was forecast.

Rain: 2"

2" of rain Monday night, far in excess of what was predicted.

The storm brought down a big branch on the ash in front of the living room window.

Wine Cups

Callirhoe involucrata

http://www.monchesfarm.com/FEATUREcallirhoe).htm

Zone 4, deep tap root.

Intolerance of wet heavy clay winter soils makes it a unlikely choice for the Hales Corners garden.

More on late blight

http://www.rodale.com/late-blight?cm_mmc=DailyNewsNL-_-2010_06_21-_-Top5-_-NA

Dread disease.

Arctic Summer

Verbascum bombyciferum 'Arctic Summer'

http://www.finegardening.com/item/15054/reader-photo-snow-in-the-middle-of-summer

Impressive.

More on Lemon Balm

http://www.nutrasanus.com/lemon-balm.html

The improved memory effect would be nice.

Lemon Balm

http://oldfashionedliving.com/lemonbalm.html

We love our lemon balm.

And we have a lot of it.

iRobot Looj

http://store.irobot.com/family/index.jsp?view=compare&categoryId=2878870&cp=2804605&s=A-UnitRank-IRBT

Interesting idea for cleaning gutters.

Not cheap.

Constructive criticism

One of the neighborhood ladies who walks by our yard every day (and has for many years) stopped today to tell us:

"You have an unconventional garden. But I like it. Do not stop what you are doing. Keep going."

She also referred to our garden as "spontaneous."

I found her comments particularly interesting because she has a beautiful garden.

Fireflies in the garden

There are fireflies in the garden just after dusk tonight.

As per the following link, they are beneficial insects.

The larvae are predators of slugs, and I need all the help I can get against slugs.

http://www.hort.uconn.edu/ipm/homegrnd/htms/firefly.htm

Lady's Mantle

http://wimastergardener.org/?q=Alchemilla_mollis

One of my favorites.

But it does not self-seed the way I hoped it would.

Rainfall: 1/8 inch

1/8 inch rain last night.

Rainfall: 0.75"

0.75" rain yesterday in a short violent thunderstorm that left small tree branches down and standing water all over the yard.

Tomato blight 2010

http://www.rodale.com/tomato-blight?cm_mmc=DailyNewsNL-_-2010_06_18-_-Top5-_-NA

The dread tomato blight returns.

Cat in the garden

A very friendly tabby cat in the garden this morning.

No collar.

Maybe it can do something about the voles.

Rainfall: 0.25"

0.25" rain last night.

Rainfall: 1.75"

1.75" rain yesterday.

Short, violent thunderstorm.

Beat everything down to the ground and standing water everywhere.

Herbal Wisdom

Essential Herbal Wisdom

A Complete Exploration of 50 Remarkable Herbs

by Nancy Arrowsmith (2009)

I am reading and re-reading the library copy but worth buying. Growing hints and lots of interesting folklore.

Available from Llewellyn (link here).

Germander

http://www.herbcompanion.com/Gardening/Please-Bees-with-Germander.aspx

We have one germander in the garden, but according to this article, it would be easy to increase the number of plants by rooting cuttings.

Gorgeous narrow side yard

http://www.finegardening.com/item/14471/a-narrow-side-yard-becomes-a-fascinating-journey

The designer did an outstanding job with a tough spot.

Corpse flower

http://www.miamiherald.com/2010/06/15/1681844/hoo-wah-rejoice-amid-scent-of.html

Michigan State's corpse flower bloomed for the first time in 15 years.

I sure wish I could grow something like that in my garden.

Japanese tree lilac

Syringa reticulata

We have been seeing a lot of specimens that look just like this picture from:

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/2/2c/Syringa_reticulata_USDA.jpg

Although we have not yet seen one in person, the variegated 'Cameo Jewel' must be a stunner.