The Boxwood Bulletin A Quarterly Devoted to Man's Oldest Garden Ornamental

At the University of Virginia, the northforecourt of the Rotunda, landscaped by the Garden Club of Virginia, has huge Buxus sempervirens surrounding the terrace where the statue of Mr. Jefferson stands. See article on page 77. (Photo: Decca G. Frackelton)

IN THIS ISSUE

39th Annual Meeting Scheduled for May 20-22 in Richmond, Virginia ...... 67 Edgar Anderson Memorial Boxwood Garden, Daniel Moses ...... 72 Boxwood Hardiness in Southwestern Pa.: Part II, Clyde Weber ...... 75 Preview: 1999 Historic Garden Week in Virginia, Suzanne Munson...... 77 62nd Maryland House and Garden Pilgrimage-1999 ...... 81 News of the Society ...... 85 The Seasonal Gardener ...... Inside Back Cover

April 1999 Volume 38, Number 4 The American Boxwood Society

The American Boxwood Society is a not-for-profit organiza­ Available Publications: tion founded in 1961 and devoted to the appreciation, scien­ tific understanding and propagation of the genus Buxus L. Back issues of The Boxwood Bulletin (thru Vol. 37) (each) $ 4 Boxwood Handbook: A Practical Guide (Revised)** $ 17 Officers: Boxwood Buyer's Guide (4th Edition) $ 6 International Registration List of Cultivated Buxus L $ 3 PRESIDENT: Index to The Boxwood Bulletin 1961-1986 $ 10 Mr. Thomas Saunders Piney River, Va. Index to The Boxwood Bulletin 1986-1991 $ 4 VICE-PRESIDENTS: 1ndex to The Boxwood Bulletin 1991-1996 $ 3 Mr. Charles Fooks Salisbury, Md. Publications may be ordered from Mrs. K. D. Ward, ABS Mr. Daniel Moses St. Louis, Mo. Treasurer, 134 Methodist Church Lane, West Augusta, VA SECRETARY: 24485-2053. **Price includes tax, postage and handling. Mrs. Sigrid Harriman Fredericksburg, Va. EXECUTIVE TREASURER: Contributions: Mrs. Katherine D. Ward West Augusta, Va. Gifts to the Society are tax-deductible and may be undesig­ REGISTRAR: nated or applied to: Mr. Lynn R. Batdorf Washington, D.C. Boxwood Memorial Garden Fund DIRECTORS: Boxwood Manual Fund Mr. John W. Boyd III (2001) Roanoke Va. Boxwood Research Fund Mr. Scot Butler (2000) Winchester, Va. Mrs. Robert L. Frackelton (2000) Fredericksburg, Va. Correspondence: Dr. Henry Frierson (2000) Charlottesville, Va. For address changes, memberships, dues, contributions, or to Mr. Richard D. Mahone (2001) Williamsburg, Va. order back issues or publications, write: Mr. Ian Robertson (1999) Charlottesville, Va. Mr. Jim W. Saunders (1999) Piney River, Va. Treasurer, The American Boxwood Society Mr. Clyde Weber (1999) Bentleyville, Pa. P.O. Box 85,. Boyce, Va. 22620-0085 Mr. Steve Zapton (2001) Port Republic, Va. For general information about the Society, advice concerning EX-OFFICIO: boxwood problems or cultivar selection, write to The Ameri­ Dr. Michael Bowers Boyce,Va. can Boxwood Society at the same address. You are also BULLETIN EDITOR: welcome to write directly to the President: John S. McCarthy St. Louis, Mo. Mr. Thomas Saunders 2498 Tye Brook Hwy. Memberships: Piney View, Va. 22964 Memberships for the year May through April include $16 for four quarterly issues of The Boxwood Bulletin: Call for Papers:

Individual $25 Sustaining $75 Technical articles, news, history, lore, notes, and photographs Family $35 Life $500 concerning boxwood specimens, gardens or plantings are Contributing $50 solicited for possible publication in The Boxwood Bulletin. Material should be submitted to: Non-member subscriptions for groups and institutions, such Chairman, Bulletin Committee as botanic gardens and libraries, are $25 by the calendar 1714 Greenway Drive year as established or current year for new subscriptions. Fredericksburg, Va. 22401-5209

The Boxwood Bulletin (ISSN 0006 8535) is published quarterly for $16.00 per year by The American Boxwood Society, Blandy Experimental Farm, Boyce, Va. 22620. Periodicals postage paid at Boyce, Va. POSTMASTER: Send a~dress changes to The Boxwood Bulletin, P.O. Box 85, Boyce, Va. 22620. The Bulletin is printed by M-J Printers, Fredericksburg, Va. 39th Annual Meeting Scheduled for May 20-22, 1999 ABS Meets in Richmond, Virginia

Katherine Ward, ABS Treasurer, has put together an entertaining and SCHEDULE OF EVENTS enlightening program for The Ameri­ Thursday, May 20 can Boxwood Society 39th Annual 10:00 a.m. Tour of Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden MeetiI!g. 12 noon Lunch on your own at LGBG Cafe Thursday, May 20, 1999 1:30 p.m. Registration at Comfort Suites-Innsbrook The program begins at the Lewis 2:00p.m. Meeting Room at Comfort Suites, Ginter Botanical Garden, 1800 Charles Thornton, Soil Consultant Lakeside Avenue, Richmond, 3:15 p.m. Break Virginia. Directions and maps for the 3:30p.m ABS Governing Board Meeting LGBG and for the Comfort Suites­ 5:30p.m. Bus leaves for Dinner Cruise on the Annabelle Innsbrook will be sent to registrants. Lee. The new E. Claiborne Robins 9:30p.m Bus returns registrants to hotel Center at the LGBG opens in March 1999 and features a spacious meeting Friday, May 21 area, botanical exhibits, patio gar­ 7:30 a.m. Breakfast in ABS Meeting Room at hotel dens, a new dining cafe (see sched­ Paul Saunders will discuss his evaluation project ule) and expanded gift shop. 8-9 a.m. Registration to pick up packets for those who Located in north Richmond, the have not received theirs. (Pre-registration is LGBG currently has more than 15 required.) landscaped acres and 10 main gard­ 9:00-9:45 a.m. John Wise - Seasonal Bedding Plants ens: an extensive perennial garden, a 9:45-10:30 a.m. Chuck Elstrodt - Scott Co. - Fertilization cottage garden, children's garden, the 10:30-10:45 a.m. Break Asian Valley garden, a conifer 10:45 a.m.-12 noon Business Meeting garden, a study garden with daffodils, 12 noon-l:15 p.m. Bob Lyons - New Director, NC State Arboretum day lilies, true lilies and cryptomerias, 2:30-3:30 p.m. Panel Discussion from written questions a wetland garden, a friendship garden, 3:30-3:45 p.m. Break a wildflower meadow and the formal 3:45 p.m. Auction (John W. Boyd, III) Victorian garden restored by the 6:30p.m. Banquet Dinner Garden Club of Virginia. There will be guided tours for the registrants Saturday, May 22 beginning at 10:00 a.m. 8:30 a.m. Bus Tour and Lunch - Agecroft Hall, Redesdale Lunch will be on your own at the and Tuckahoe Plantation - Bus returns to hotel new cafeteria at LGBG, then travel to the Comfort Suites-Innsbrook to cheplc! in and begin meetings. We will open our meetings with a Registration: talk by soil consultant Charles Registrants are responsible for availability will apply. Thornton. their lodgings and any meals not Cost: $130 for the full schedule, Following a refreshment break, the specified. Rooms are being held at plus a $15 supplement for non­ ABS Governing Board will meet at the Comfort Suites-Innsbrook, 4051 members. For those who cannot 3:30p.m. Innslake Drive, Glen Allen V A attend all functions, the cost may be The next scheduled event is the 23060, phone (804) 217-9200 until divided $45 for Thursday and $85 for dinner cruise on the paddleboat May 2. Identity yourself with The combined Friday and Saturday. "Annabelle Lee." The bus will leave American Boxwood Society for the Supplement applies. No other the hotel promptly at 5:30 p.m. to go special rate of $79.95 plus tax (single adjustments can be made. to the boat and will pick us up for or double). Deadline for registration is May 2, return at 9:30 p.m. After May 2 regular rates and 1999.

April 1999 67 Friday, May 21, 1999 Meetings will be held at the Comfort Suites-Innsbrook, which serves a complimentary breakfast. Breakfast will be set up in our meeting room at 7:30 a.m. and Paul Saunders will show slides and discuss hi s National Boxwood Trials pro­ gram. Registration between 8-9 a.m. for those who have not picked up their packets. (Pre-registration is required.) John Wise, horticulturist at LGBG, will speak on Seasonal Bedding, followed by Chuck Elstrodt of the Scott' s Company on Fertiliza­ tion . After a fifteen-minute break, the Annual Business Meeting will begin. The ABS Board will then have to gather for a short business meeting while the registrants get started on The formal garden at Agecroft Hall with the James River in the background. their box lunches. (Be sure to indicate on your registration form if you wish garlic herb chicken salad or dill tuna salad on your croissant sandwich.) The afternoon speaker is Bob Lyons, Director of the J. C. Ralston Arboretum at N.C. State, followed by a panel discussion. Registrants are requested to submit written questions to be answered by the panel. After a short break, the very popular Auction will begin with John W. Boyd III in charge. At 6:30 p.m. we will reassemble (at the hotel) for the Banquet Dinner.

Notice Anyone with named box­ woods to donate to the Auction, The sunken garden at Agecroft Hall in October. (Top photos: Decca please notify Mr. John W. Boyd Frackelton) III, Auction Chairman, so that he can prepare a list in advance Saturday, May 22, 1999 house, then reverse. with descriptions. His address is The bus will leave promptly at Agecroft Hall, a Tudor Manor 2612 Churchill Drive, Roanoke, 8:30 a.m. for a tour and lunch, House built in 16th-century England, Virginia 24012-2126, phone visiting three gardens. crossed the Atlantic to become the (540) 362-0064. At Agecroft Hall we will be residence of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas C. divided into two groups, one to tour Williams, Jr. The reconstruction was the grounds, the other to tour the completed in 1928 as the centerpiece

68 April 1999 Knot gardens at Agecroft Hall. The driveway at Redesdale is lined with stately old boxwood. (Photo: (Photo: Decca G. Frackelton) Katherine Ward)

of the newly developed Windsor Farms suburb. Henry G. Morse (1876-1934), the architect, incorpo­ rated architectural elements from the original manor in Lancashire, En­ gland into a modern house for his clients. On a 23-acre site overlooking the James River, Agecroft Hall is sur­ rounded by gardens which were landscaped by Charles Gillette (1886- 1969) who designed a garden remi­ niscent of the Pond Garden at Hamp­ ton Court Palace near London. Several of Agecroft Hall's gardens are inspired by 17th-century models: the knot garden, the fragrance garden and the herb garden. The next stop is Redesdale, where we will visit the garden designed as a Looking from the parking area toward the entrance gate at Redesdale. setting for the Bottomley house. The (Photo: Katherine Ward) approach is along a driveway lined with stately old boxwoods. bluff overlooking the James River, vegetable garden and the Memorial The third stop is Tuckahoe has been a home and a working farm Garden near the Randolph Cemetery, Plantation where Thomas Jefferson for nearly 275 years. It is an architec­ designed by Charles F. Gillette, which lived as a boy. We will have lunch tural gem of its period and has many is undergoing renovations. first and then tour the house and preserved outbuildings including the grounds. schoolhouse where Thomas Jefferson ABOUT THE SPEAKERS Tuckahoe Plantation, an early went to classes. The beautiful grounds Charles K. Eistrodt of Randolph home, built c. 1712 on a include perennial and herb gardens, Onancock, Virginia is a Territory

April 1999 69 Plantation Street at Tuckahoe with large boxwoods among Buxus harlandii in the gardens at Tuckahoe Plantation outbuildings. (Photos: Katherine Ward)

Manager for the Scott's Company. He At present he is a Professor in the based on a philosophy of soil balance received an AA from York College in Department of Horticultural Science as it relates to the chemical, physical Pennsylvania in 1963, a BS from and Director of the J. C. Raulston and biological components of the soil. Delaware Valley College in 1966, a Arboretum, N.C. State University. He The ultimate goal is to create an MS in 1969 and a Ph.D. in 1971, both also served as Professor, Department optimal environment for both plants from the University of Maryland. of Horticulture, Virginia Tech (1995- and soil organisms to thrive and He has been a State Extension 1998) as well as Associate Professor flourish. Horticulturist with Virginia Tech, (1987-1994), Assistant Professor John Wise began Horticulture in Horticultural Services Director with (1981-1987) and Director Virginia high school where he was befriended Sierra Chemical Company and Horti­ Tech Gardens (1994-1998). by Fredric Heutte of the Norfolk culture Services Manager for Grace­ Among his other credentials: 1996 Botanical Garden. He then attended Sierra Horticultural Products Co. Virginia Tech W. E. Wine Award for Sandhills Community College where He is at present Garden Editor for Excellence, 1998 Diggs Teaching he received an AAS in Ornamental the Eastern Shore News, is a past­ Scholar and finalist, 1998 Certificate Horticulture. President of the Virginia Beach of Teaching Excellence. He received He apprenticed at Swiss Pine Beautification Commission, a past­ an Outstanding Publication Award in Japanese Gardens in Malvern, Pa. President of the Men's Garden Club 1993 and is an acclaimed horticultural before moving to Richmond, Va., in of Tidewater, past-President of the photographer. 1975, where he became manager for Tidewater Nurseryman's Association, Charles Thornton is the founder Colesville Nursery. For the next an Accredited Flower Show School of Tellus Consulting, begun in 1991 twenty years, he worked at various Instructor and was a tenured Associ­ with a client base of 40 agricultural jobs in the industry from landscape ate Professor at Virginia Tech. producers, focusing on soil fertility design to retail sales and grounds His subject for· the ABS Annual and crop production management. His maintenance. He is currently em­ Meeting in May is "Fertilizer Basics business has expanded to include ployed as an Horticulturist with Lewis to Help Keep Your Boxwoods consulting in areas related to land­ Ginter Botanical Garden. Happy" scape plants and ornamentals, turf He has been a member of the IPPS Robert (Bob) Lyons received his grass, specialty crops, farm manage­ for eighteen years, the RNA for the BA in 1976 from Rutgers University ment, environmental screens and ' last fifteen years and has been an in Biological Sciences, his MS in Phase I environmental audits on instructor for the Master Gardener 1979 and his PhD in 1981, both from agricultural properties and general Program, VNA Certification Program the University of Minnesota in environmental sampling and analysis. and GWU Landscape Certificate Horticulture. Soil fertility recommendations are Program.

70 April 1999 A tall boxwood hedge at Tuckahoe Plantation screens and protects from the wind. (Photos: Katherine Ward)

A formal garden at Tuckahoe, with topiaries, parterres and hedges.

April 1999 71 Edgar Anderson Memorial Boxwood Garden Daniel Moses

Dr. Edgar Shannon Anderson was American climate. During my trip I our own, will prove more adaptable to born in New York State on November received continuous confirmation of American conditions than those 9, 1897, but the greater part of his life this working hypothesis. From already imported from northern was spent in the Midwest. He earned northern Bulgaria through the Valley Europe." a doctor's degree from Harvard and of the Danube to the Black Sea and From this trip to the Balkans a few went on to be a Professor at Washing­ westward to the Carpathians, the of the cuttings brought back were ton University. The President of the climate is remarkably similar to that successfully rooted and propagated. Herb Society of America, an Engel­ of the Midwest. American trees and One of these went on to be known as mann Professorship at Washington shrubs in the Balkans are successful Vardar Valley (352-35), the most University, and Director of the and already of outstanding impor­ successful boxwood from this Missouri Botanical Garden for three tance. The cultivated crops are mostly collection that is available in the trade years. Anderson was a very dedicated American in origin-maize, toma­ today. botanist, but he referred to himself as toes, pumpkins, etc. The chief In 1935 Edgar Anderson returned an ordinary botanist saying "I am one, differences from America are, first of to Missouri Botanical Garden. He never wanted to be anything else, and all, the proximity of the mountains contacted the Yugoslav forest district that covers all my activities." produces heavy dews often during and imported a "pound or so" of Very humble and kind in nature he prolonged dry spells, and the winter boxwood seed which were sent out to was viewed by his colleagues with climate, although sometimes more Shaw Arboretum at Gray Summit, high regard. He was intensely severe than ours, is largely deter­ Missouri to be raised. From this seed interested in finding new varieties of mined by the prevailing winds so that, about 100 or more boxwoods were plants for the Midwest. Particularly even more than in New England, produced. Cuttings were taken of the genus of Hedera, Taxus and there are wide differences of climate each plant, numbered and shipped to BllXUS. He searched the globe until he within a very narrow area. Henry Hohman of Kingsville, found a climate similar to that of the "It is hoped that these strains, Maryland. These eventually became Midwest. The closest he found was coming from a climate so similar to known as the K-series of boxwoods. the area surrounding Skoplje in the Vardar River valley in Yugoslavia. He went to Yugoslavia in 1934 while Why go to the Balkans to look for boxwood? [An informative working for Arnold Arboretum to sign at the Missouri Botanical Garden answers the question.] research these plants and bring back specimens for testing in our some­ Edgar Anderson (1897-1969) cultivated varieties were derived, times risky mid-west climate. The had a goal-to introduce strains including 'Agram', 'Edgar Ander­ following is an account of his trip of boxwood and other plants that son', 'Nish', and 'Vardar Valley' upon his return to Harvard: would grow well in the sometimes Edgar Anderson's work with "The primary purpose of the trip harsh and uncertain climatic boxwoods was just one of the was to put the Arnold Arboretum in conditions of the midwestern many facets of his long associa­ effective contact with similar institu­ United States. After studying tion with the Missouri Botanical tions in the Balkans. In addition I did world climates, he decided that Garden. He earned an interna­ actual collecting of herbarium the Balkans had a climate compa­ tional reputation for his botanical specimens, plants and seeds .... The rable to this part of North work on the origin and evolution plants, for the most part, consist of America. In 1934 he visited the of com and other grasses. He was rooted cuttings of Balkan strains of Balkans and obtained seeds and also a dedicated teacher, impart­ Ivy, Yew and Box .... cuttings from a large number of ing his botanical knowledge to "One of my main reasons for plants. Among these was the others. In later years he was the going to the Balkans was that it European boxwood, Buxus director of this botanical garden seemed probable that there, as sempervirens, from which many from 1954 to 1958. nowhere else in Europe, one might come closest to duplicating the

72 April 1999 Anderson had great faith that many new cultivars of boxwood would arise from this series. He even named four of these before shipping them off, B. sempervirens 'Agram', B. sempervirens 'Nish', B. sempervirens 'Ipek', and B. sempervirens 'Serbian Blue' . The assigned K-series numbers are unknown except K-79 for 'Agram'. The K-series plants were propa­ gated at both Kingsville and Shaw Arboretum and sent out to other institutions, the National Arboretum and B1andy Farm in 1957, and the University of Washington Arboretum in 1958. From this distribution the K­ series was passed on again to Arnold Arboretum in 1964 and the St. Louis Boxwood Study Group in 1971 A view of the Edgar Anderson Garden in 1996. (Photo: Missouri Botanical (which later formed the Midwest Garden) Boxwood Society). Over the course of years only a few boxwoods from Valley', 'Agram', 'Henry Shaw', and Maple the dappled sunlight makes for the K-series still exist. Despite years 'Edgar Anderson' (351-35), to name an ideal setting for box. Come and of neglect a few have received some a few. This garden is planted in a see this beautiful tribute to a great recognition and may be worthy of bisymmetrical fashion with a beauti­ plantsman and the boxwoods that he more propagation and becoming ful wood bench in the center sur­ loved so much. registered cultivars. rounded by boxwood. It is a quiet If not for Anderson's dedication to place to sit, relax, and reflect. Lightly Credits: Mary A. Gamble. Erna R. these collections we may never have shaded by a Green Ash and a Sugar Eisandrath. and John J. Finan. come to know the Balkan boxwoods. He felt that not enough was ever done with the K-series and some of the Addendum Gamble. See The Boxwood Bulletin unnamed varieties. He looked 13(2):26-28.1973. hopefully into the future that the K­ Of the five Anderson Balkan A large specimen of the cultivar series, and other unnamed varieties of boxwood cultivars first accessioned at given the number 789-34 may be Balkan boxwoods, would be more the Arnold Arboretum (789-34, 350- found where planted in an area of the thoroughly tested and go on to 35,351-35,352-35 and 353-35) which original ABS Memorial Garden at become registered cultivars. Unfortu­ Henry J. Hohman of Kingsville Blandy about 1976 and a cultivar nately because of wide spread Nurseries received to propagate, two name is being contemplated for distribution and years of neglect most have been named and registered and registration. of the K-series boxwoods no longer two more we hope to designate with Also, a specimen of 353-35 exist. The largest collection of K­ names. (upright form) is now planted in the series is at the National Arboretum in The Arnold Arboretum named 352- ABS Memorial Garden. George Washington D.C. 35 'Vardar Valley' and as mentioned Gilmer received this plant from In 1995 ground was broken for the in Mr. Moses' article, it has received Kingsville Nurseries in the 1960s and construction of a boxwood collection wide acclaim. (As this goes to press, I it resided in my garden from the late in memory of Edgar Anderson. learn from Mr. Moses that the 'Vardar 1970' s until November 1998. This we Located on the grounds of the Valley' at the Missouri Botanical also hope to give a Balkan name. Missouri Botanical Garden this two­ Garden has had a rough year.) The ABS Memorial Garden acre garden hosts many of the 'Edgar Anderson' was the name Committee hopes to get some of the hardiest Balkan varieties, 'Vardar given to 351-35, registered by Mary numbered K-series at Blandy planted

April 1999 73 'Vardar Valley' (Anderson 's Balkan #352-35) named by 'Edgar Anderson' (Anderson's Balkan #351-35) in the the Arnold Arboretum. In the ABS Memorial Garden, in ABS Memorial Garden at Blandy, center bed, July 1997. 1993, at age 34 years, it is about 4' high and 12' across.

Anderson's Balkan #353-35 as planted in the ABS Anderson's Balkan #789-34 in the ABS Memorial Garden, Memorial Garden in November 1998; planted about 1976. (Photos: Decca Frackelton) approximately 35 years old and about 7' high. in the Memorial Garden area for touched to learn that he (Hohman) Place', 'Prizren', and 'Serbian Blue' further study. still had the collection of K-series were originally known, please let us In the early 1970s at Kingsville plants intact. know. Also, if 'Serbian Blue' is still Nurseries, Mr. Hohman, showing me If anyone has knowledge of the K­ in existence, we' d like a source. some of the Balkans, told me that numbers under which 'Nish', 'Ipek' Edgar Anderson had been quite (,Petch'), 'Henry Shaw', 'Flora Decca Frackelton

74 April 1999 Boxwood Hardiness in Southwestern Pa.: Part II Clyde Weber This is a continuation of the previously published article (April J998) of the same title. The observa­ tions are based on plantings desig­ nated "Boxwood Memorial Test Gardens " in memory of my wife Janet. These plantings are at Oak Hill Nursery in Washington County, Pennsylvania.

The April 1998 article covered the effects of the relatively mild winter on the test plantings as observed in mid-January of 1998. The lowest temperature observed on the premises for the 1997-98 season was 10°F. which was experienced in late fall of 1997, and again in January of 1998. This is more typical of Zone #7 climate rather than Zone #615 which we normally experience. In late summer of 1998 we Buxus microphylla •Compacta , plants are happy in the shade of an old experienced a severe drought. This Norway spruce. (Photos: Clyde Weber) was followed by Indian Summer weather lasting into December. The present 1998-99 fall-winter season has given us alternating snow, freezing rain, high winds and rapidly fluctuating temperatures. The lowest temperature observed this season was -5°F. on Jan. 5, and the snow cover was seldom sufficient to give ad­ equate protection, so our current hardiness evaluation will give meaningful results. The boxwood plantings were started in 1990-1992, and added to in 1996, 1997, and 1998. A few were planted as B&B specimens while others were potted plants and liners. Our objective is to gather firsthand information on hardiness as related to good cultural practices. and to increase the interest in the genus Buxus in this area. The Plants As of January 1998. 106 plants representing 13 types of Buxus B. sinica var. insularis 'Winter Gem' (B&B extreme left).

April 1999 75 mierophylla, B. siniea var. insularis Blandy' , as well as the "Route 50" in Newark, Ohio. and B. sempervirens were included in (Fooks) and "Andy" do not show any Negative Results were experi­ the study. Fifty-five more plants, failure. These last two also indicate enced with B. microphylla some of which were small liners, an upright growth habit. 'Compacta', although they stiIllook were added in May of 1998, after the B. mierophylla 'Jim's Spreader' very nice (Jan.) when sheltered from ABS annual meeting. Needless to say, rates high with good foliage color on western wind and hot summer sun. B some of these were ABS auction and an open growth plant and two B. microphylla 'Curly Locks' grown in gift plants. There are now approxi­ sempervirens 'Elegantissiama' an operi location is also completely mately 160 plants representing 23 growing in a sheltered area look as browned as are some of the B. siniea varieties. Some plant identities may fresh and unblemished as can be. B. var. insularis 'Tall Boy'. not be final, but for the present, and mierophylla var.japoniea 'Morris If anyone wishes to submit or in order to avoid confusion, they are Midget' and 'Morris Dwarf also look suggest test plants, you may contact identified according to the provider of good growing in a low-lying open Clyde or Betty Weber, 281 Sumney the plant. Identity corrections will be area. Cuttings of 'Dee Runk', 'Joe Rd., Bentleyville, Pa, 15314, phone made as we become aware of errors. Gable', and "Route 50", will be 724/258-8671. Comments, corrections The first needed correction I have supplied to Richard Larson for and additional notes are also wel­ been made aware of is for the cultivar growing on at the Dawes Arboretum come. B. mierophylla 'Winter Gem', which should be identified as B. siniea var. inslliaris, 'Winter Gem' . The Korean boxwoods are so designated. TEST BOXWOOD AS OF JANUARY 27, 1999 Observations No. of All plants, with the exception of B. Plants Identification-Results mierophylla 'Compacta' and B. mierophylla 'Curly Locks' survived 21 B. mierophylla 'Compacta'-Good in shade & protected area the 1997-98 winter quite well, and 1 B. microphylla 'Curly Locks'-Foliage browned* in exposed area now in late January of 1999 most are 1 B. microphylla 'Green Pillow' -Foliage bronzed in exposed area in good to excellent condition. 1 B. microphylla 'Jim's Spreader'-Very good Generalized results of the January B. mierophylla 'John Baldwin'-Very good 1999 observations are shown in the 1 B. microphylla var. japonica 'Green Beauty'-Outstanding adjacent table. 1 B. mierophylla var.japonica 'Morris Dwarf-Very good Rather than list the results of all of 1 B. mierophylla var japoniea 'Morris Midget' -Some bronzing the types, only those with outstanding 1 B. siniea var. insularis 'Justin Brouwers'-Outstanding to exceptional survival/growth/foliage 15 seedlings ratings will be listed in the text of this B. (mie?) "Andy" (Weber)-Very good article, while types with less desirable 1 B. (?) "Route 50" (Fooks)-Very good results will be shown only in the 6 B. mierophylla 'Kingsville'-Very good table. 21 B. siniea var. insularis 'Winter Gem'-Good to outstanding 36 B. siniea var. insularis types (Korean) -Good to very good Excellent to outstanding plants 6 B. siniea var. insularis (Korean)-Good were: B. siniea var: insularis Winter 3 B. 'Green Prince'-Good foliage but open plants Gem' has been our control plant 10 B. sinica var. insularis 'Tall Boy'-Variable results: bronzed to green because of its previous exceptional 1 B. sempervirens 'Agram'-Very good results, but we now find it challenged 2 B. sempervirens 'Dee Runk' -Outstanding by B. mierophylla var.japoniea 1 B. sempervirens 'Graham Blandy'-Outstanding 'Green Beauty', B. mierophylla 1 B. sempervirens 'Inglis'-Outstanding 'Kingsville', B. siniea var. insularis 1 B. sempervirens 'Joe Gable'-Outstanding 'Justin Brouwers', B. sernpervirens 2 B. sempervirens 'Vardar Valley'-Excellent 'Inglis', B. sempervirens 'Joe Gable', 2 B. sempervirens 'Elegantissima' (protected are a)-Excellent and B. sempervirens 'Vardar Valley'. 22 B. 'Green Mountain'-Very good The upright B. sempervirens 'Dee Runk' and B. sempervirens 'Graham * Browned is worse than bronzed. Bronzed is acceptable; browned is not.

76 April 1999 Preview: 1999 Historic Garden Week in Virginia Suzanne Munson, Historic Garden Week Executive Director

From California to Canada, visitors are making enthusiastic plans to attend the 66th season of Historic Garden Week in Virginia, April 17- 24. Three dozen lovely tours of some of the state's most outstanding homes and gardens will be held across Virginia during the eight-day pro­ gram. Garden Week's proceeds benefit the restoration of historic gardens and grounds throughout the Commonwealth. Charlottesville's three tours each will feature old and beautiful box­ wood plantings. The first tour of the "Friendly Gardens," April 17 and 18, includes eight delightful in-town gardens within an easy walking distance of one other in the Rugby Road area. The Kern property on One of the "Friendly Gardens" open April 17-18 in Charlottesville. Virginia. Burnley Avenue has been developed The Kern garden uses Buxus sempervirens 'Suffruticosa' ("English" with more than a dozen different boxwood) to define spaces. (Photos: Mrs. Wallenborn) garden rooms, each connected by paths of salvaged, mellowed antique bricks. James Kern personally transplanted 143 English boxwoods over a 12-month period. With these, he was able to define one garden space after another without losing the original natural feeling. Properties on this tour are substantially handi­ capped-accessi ble. The traditional tour of the Univer­ sity of Virginia's Pavilion Houses and Gardens on April 20 will offer a guided walk through historic gardens originally planned by Thomas Jefferson and carefully nurtured today. The Pavilion Gardens and their surrounding serpentine walls were reconstructed on their old alignments by The Garden Club of Virginia with Another area of the Kern garden shows 'Suffruticosa' defining area between proceeds from Historic Garden Week. the lawn and a band of ivy. The gardens were designed to period precedent, using boxwood and plant 53, the East Lawn in 1960-65, the Charlottesville's third event, the material types known in the North Forecourt of the Rotunda in "Country Homes and Gardens Tour" Jeffersonian era. The gardens on the 1977 and additional landscaping in in the Rivanna Reservoir and Garth West Lawn were completed in 1947- 1983-91. Road area on April 19 and 20, opens

April 1999 77 handsome properties and interesting gardens in some of Albemarle County's most scenic rolling country­ side. Surrounding the Federal-era Poi st house, built around 1805, are splendid old trees and an abundance of perennials and shrubs. Among these is an impressive row of 15-foot­ high American boxwoods. The property crests a peaceful bluff over woodland paths descending to the Ivy Creek Nature area, home to birds and other wildlife indigenous to the region. Properties on this tour are also mostly handicapped-accessible. In addition to house and garden tours, special events in the Charlottesville area will include lectures by the staff of the magnifi­ Boxwood (Buxus sempervirens 'Suffruticosa' lines a step-stone path in the cent Morven estate April 20 and 21, a Marstellar garden. (Photos: Mrs. Smith)

The Robertson garden, on the Newport News-Hampton Tour April 21, features a boxwood maze as well as azaleas, borders of spring bulbs and garden ornaments.

78 April 1999 A vista from the great hall at Elmwood with boxwood At Blandfield, some Buxus sempervirens 'Suffruticosa', lining the path and accents of Crapemyrtle along the way. with their "billowy" shape, are grouped behind a trimmed (Photo: Taylor Dabney) B. sempervirens. (Photos: Mrs. James C. Wheat, Jr.)

"Flowers Interpret Art" flower show behind artistic gates winds along properties from the early 1900s and cocktail buffet at the Bayly Art brick pathways surrounded by large through the late 1990s, several with Museum April 20, and illustrated English boxwoods and Coral Bell boxwood gardens designed by talks by the Monticello horticultural azaleas. A highlight of this tour on renowned landscape architect Charles staff on April 20 and 22. April 21 is an exhibit at the Peninsula F. Gillette, will be showcased on In Eastern Virginia, the Newport Fine Arts Center, "The Gardens of Richmond's three tours, April 20-22. News-Hampton tour features garden Ellen Biddle Shipman," presenting More information about these and walks as well as house tours and the life and landscape designs of one other tours and events is detailed in includes the Marsteller property, with of the early 20th century's most the Garden Week guidebook. To nearly 200 English boxwoods linking successful landscape architects. reserve a copy, please mail a $5 the diverse garden rooms of this New to Garden Week this year is donation to Historic Garden Week, 12 elegant retreat designed and planted the "Premier Tour of Essex County" E. Franklin St., Richmond, V A recently by the owners. A formal on April 23 presented by The Garden 23219. Members of The Garden Club boxwood parterre is the focal point of Club of the Middle Peninsula, of Virginia invite you to join us for the side yard, its rectangular layout recently admitted into membership in 1999 Historic Garden Week, consisting of 82 boxwoods. Three The Garden Club of Virginia. The Virginia's largest and most beautiful rooms in the backyard are defined by tour features five wonderful historic springtime event. 41 boxwoods forming a central houses and their graceful grounds and "allee." The lush Robertson garden one historic church. Noteworthy

April 1999 79 Blandfield was built around 1770 by Robert Beverly ll. Buxus sempervirens 'Sujfruticosa' in this photo is one of several groupings of "English" boxwood.

At Blandfield (Essex County tour) these Buxus sempervirens are devotedly caredfor. They are pruned every other year in October to maintain their present size. (Photos: Mrs. James C. Wheat, Jr.)

80 April 1999 62nd Maryland House and Garden Pilgrimage - 1999

For one whose taste runs to box­ wood in the landscape, this seven­ county tour has much to offer. The Pilgrimage, the original house and garden tour in the state, includes historic waterfront estates, churches and schoolhouses, as well as graceful mansions, elegant city houses, interest­ ing and historic structures and sumptu­ ous gardens.

Saturday, April 17: Anne Arundel County

Anne Arundel County was estab­ lished in 1650 and named in honor of Lady Anne Arundel, wife of Cecil Calvert, second Lord Baltimore and Proprietor of the Province. This year, Bunker Hill in Anne Arundel County, built in 1818 by William Henry Baldwin, the county celebrates the 350th has a driveway lined with boxwood. (Photos: Md. House and Garden anniversary of the founding of Provi­ Pilgrimage) dence, the first European settlement in this area. 1848 and several outbuildings had architecture in Maryland. Belvoir stands on high ground been constructed including a carriage Sherwood Gardens was established above the Severn River. This fine old house, root cellar, ice house, smoke in 1927 by John W. Sherwood, local plantation house was built by John house, chicken house and slave petroleum pioneer and conservationist. Ross, great-grandfather of Francis quarters, which all remain today. They Begun as a hobby, the gardens are built Scott Key, in 1690. Constructed of are considered to be a significant group on land once covered by a lake and native fieldstone, Belvoir's foundation of mid-19th century dependencies. have become one of the most famous walls are five feet thick. Bunker Hill has had additions over the tulip gardens in North America. In the 1730s, a brick addition was years and is furnished with Baldwin Approximately 80,000 tulip bulbs are completed, creating an impressive portraits and family antiques. planted each year along with other foyer, central dining room and a spring-flowering bulbs. Dogwoods, Friday, April 23: library. The brick used in the construc­ wisteria, azaleas and magnolias bloom Baltimore City - Guilford Area tion was ballast from a sailing ship. A throughout the garden. Some of the old small portico, reminiscent of Monti­ Guilford's history dates back more boxwoods date to the 18th century. cello, leads to the front door. Almost than 200 years. Originally comprised Saturday, April 24: every room has a fireplace, including of 10 patents granted to British citizens Kent County the basement, which served as the from the mid-1600s through the 1700s. summer kitchen. A lovely cantilevered The entire area was sold as confiscated Kent County, founded in 1642, was staircase leads to a long second floor British property to Revolutionary War named for the English shire from hallway with well-proportioned rooms veteran Gen. William McDonald in which came many of its early settlers. looking out over the verdant country­ 1780. Gen. McDonald gave Guilford When the first legislature was as­ side. In 1781, on their way to join its name and began the tradition of sembled in 1649, Kent County was one George Washington in Yorktown, the celebrated architecture still evident. of two counties in the colony. Compte de Rochambeau and his The community today was developed Chestertown lies on the north bank of soldiers camped here for several days. after 1913 by the combined Guilford the Chester River and was established Bunker Hill was built by William Park and Roland Park companies. as a seaport in 1707. Along Water St. Henry Baldwin in 1818. The original Guilford is graced with some of the stands a unique concentration of center hall farmhouse was enlarged by best examples of colonial revival handsome brick houses, once the

April 1999 81 homes of wealthy 18th-century ship owners. Two blocks from the river is Lawyers' Row, where small 18th­ century houses have long been offices for many of the town's attorneys. Washington College was founded in 1782 and is the only college to which George Washington gave permission for use of his name. He was a member of the first Board of Governors. Chestertown was the boyhood home of Charles Willson Peale, the portrait painter of the American Revolution. Ri verside, also known as the Tull House, is a 20th-century brick southern colonial house built in 1941. The brick walkways and patio provide pleasant views of herb and perennial gardens. Plantings in the front are simple, featuring several very old boxwoods, lavenders and boxes of petunias. The A pink Mediterranean-style house in the Guilford area of Baltimore, designed interior features random-width hard­ by Lawrence Hall Fowler in 1925. is surrounded by large boxwoods. (Photo: wood floors over tongue and groove Maryland House and Garden Pilgrimage) hardwood subfloors, ornate crown moldings, and stenciling in several added to the roof. Simple Federal-style moldings. Kenwood gardens boast rooms. Of special interest is a fine mantels, chair rail and baseboard were some of the largest and best preserved collection of oriental rugs and antiques. used to finish the interior. The "new" specimens of English boxwood in the Carvill Hall is the oldest docu­ staircase to the second story has a area. mented house in Kent County. It was delicate balustrade typical of the 1815- Burley Manor is often cited as one built around 1694 when John Carvill 1820 period. of the most significant dwellings in received a gift of 24 acres on the banks Berlin. It was built in 1832. There have Sunday, April 25: of Fairlee Creek which had been part of been few architectural changes in the Worcester County his father's 800-acre plantation. The house since its construction. Ornate original house consisted of a steep 2'/2- Worcester County was established moldings and woodwork enhance the story brick block with a porch tower in 1742. The first recorded settler lived interior. facing the creek. There was a detached near Snow Hill in 1642. Snow Hill, the Wednesday, May 5: kitchen about twenty feet to the county's first town, was chartered in Baltimore County southwest. The main structure, built in 1686 and became a Port of Entry in Aemish bond, had glazed headers 1694. Pocomoke City, originally Baltimore County was established above a stepped water table and string "Steven's Landing," and Berlin, once a in 1659. At that time, most English courses at the seCond and third floor small hamlet around Burleigh's Inn, settlements were along the shores of levels. The floor plan resembled that were other early settlements. the Chesapeake Bay. In 1683, surveys typically followed in 17th century New Kenwood was built prior to 1832. A were made of large tracts of land in the England houses. The house underwent two-story porch added to the gable interior and patents were granted. a major remodeling in the first quarter facade distinguishes it from its neigh­ Hampton Hall at the Hampton of the 19th century. The porch tower boring Federal-style dwellings. The National Historic Site, was built and central chimney were demolished cornice has shaped modillions and a between 1783 and 1790 by Charles and the interior was altered to conform fascia with arches and swags of drill Ridgely, sea captain. merchant, farmer, to the center passage plan typical of holes beneath. Kenwood is noted for its mill owner, member of the Maryland most Kent County farmhouses of the Adam doorway with delicate fanlight House of Delegates and owner of the time. Windows were enlarged, gable and double gallery. The interior of the Northhampton Ironworks. (The end chimneys constructed and dormers house has fine, carved mantels and Northhampton Ironworks provided

82 April 1999 Open Wednesday, May 5, on the Baltimore County tour, the Gittings-Baldwin house, built before 1798 on land known as Standiford's Claim, has a long boxwood garden and flower beds flanking the entrance.

Open on the Baltimore County tour Wednesday, May 5, Prospect Hill was built in 1496-98 by Thomas Ringgold. Mature boxwood surround the entrance. (Photos: Caroline A. Coleman)

April 1999 83 arms for the American Revolution.) Calvert was given to the area in 1654. undulating hills that characterize the Constructed of local limestone, By 1695, the county was partitioned Piedmont Plateau. The Germans lived stuccoed and scored to look like an and lost a large part of its land to Prince on small farms while their English English country house, Hampton Hall George's County. The first setters were neighbors preferred to live on planta­ was one of the largest and most ornate farmers from England, Wales and tions. The town of New Windsor, 18th-century houses in America. The Scotland. originally named Sulphur Springs, was house of high Georgian style has The house at Cove Farm was built surveyed c. 1788 by Isaac Atlee. The beautiful cornices, pediments and in 1939-1940, designed by Gertrude healthful properties of the water woodwork, crowned with a large Sawyer, AIA, who also designed Point attracted settlers to the area, establish­ cupola. Hampton was continually Farm at Jefferson Patterson Park. The ing this town as a summer resort. occupied by seven generations of the entrance-level rooms have high Dating to mid-18th century, Ridgely family between 1788 and ceilings and antique flooring from an Taneytown is the oldest town in the 1948, The house is furnished with 18th-century Baltimore house. The county, which is known for its clay outstanding examples of American and dining room bay window and large soil, "Terra Rubra." European decorative arts original to Palladian window on the spiral Fox Parlor was built by Jacob Biggs Hampton. The grounds include a staircase frame expansive views of St. between 1788-1800. Constructed of red formal Italianate terraced garden and Leonard's Creek. In the dining room is stone quarried from the Monocacy an English-style landscape park with an a portrait of Commodore Joshua River, this five-bay house was de­ orangery. Outbuildings include an early Burney, the American Navy officer signed in the Adam style. Most of the 18th-century farmhouse, stone slave who defended St. Leonard's Creek woodwork, floors and five mantel­ quarters, a dairy, bams and stables. from the British in 1814. Ms. Sawyer's pieces are original. It is furnished with The Gittings-Baldwin House was clever design has lasted through the late 18th- and early 19th-century built before 1798. It is a telescoping years; no structural alterations have antiques. The grounds feature century­ stone house maintaining much of its been made to the house even though it old Kentucky coffee trees, boxwood, original architectural detail: cornice was built before rural electrification statuary and a small dependency in the work with a course of dentils, staircase arrived in Calvert County. There is a kitchen yard. with tapered square newels hollowed to generous and efficient use of storage Antrim 1844 was built by Colonel simulate four balusters and mantels space, closets and cabinets as well as Andrew Ege, an Irish immigrant who with fluted pilasters supporting the butler's pantry and kitchen. Cornice named the property after the county of entablature shelves. A large boxwood moldings, arches, chair-rails and his birth. It is a Greek Revival mansion garden and flower beds flank the pilasters were custom milled on-site by with Federal influence and is represen­ entrance. The State of Maryland craftsmen. The grounds are colorful tative of the graceful style of the purchased the deteriorated house in year round: spring blossoms with period. The cherry staircase winds 1969 and established a curatorship dogwood trees, azaleas, mountain from the grand entrance to a Widow's program for the house and 17 acres laurel and rhododendron; summer Walk on the third floor. Formal where the occupants may live in the blazes with annuals and crape myrtle; gardens complement the historic house for their lifetime in return for in autumn chrysanthemums, red­ building which is now a country inn. restoring and maintaining the property. berried hollies and deep green box­ (Reservation only luncheon served 11 Prospect Hill was built in 1796-98 wood brighten the landscape. In winter, a.m.-2 p.m. $10.1-800-85-1844 by by Thomas Ringgold. This Federal­ the reflections on St. Leonard's Creek May 7.) style house has original glass windows provide the view. and cross and bible design doors with Jane Vallery-Davis suppUed this Wednesday, May 12: original locks. It is believed that Alexis text and photos for this article. The Carroll County de Tocqueville, author of "Democracy Pilgrimage is a non-profit organization in America," visited the house. Carroll County was established in established in 1937 to promote and 1837 and named in honor of Charles perpetuate the preservation ofMary­ Saturday, May 8: Carroll of Carrollton, the last surviving land's historic architectural treasures. Calvert County signer of the Declaration of Proceeds from the annual tour benefit Calvert County was part of Charles Independence. Early in the 18th special preservation projects in each County in 1650 when the representa­ century, the Pennsylvania Germans and county. Tickets for each of the day-long tive of Lord Baltimore arrived to form Tidewater English were attracted to the tours are $20 and may be purchased at a new county in the colony. The name fertile soil, abundant streams and any house.

84 April 1999 NEWS OF THE SOCIETY

Minutes of the Winter Board Meeting The winter meeting of the Govern­ ing Board of The American Boxwood Society was held on Friday, January 22, 1999 at the Orland E. White Arboretum, Blandy Farm, Virginia. In attendance were Thomas Saunders, President, Katherine D. Ward, Executive Treasurer, Sigrid G. Harriman, Secretary, Lynn R. Batdorf, Registrar, and the following directors: Scot Butler, Decca Frackelton, Dr. Henry F. Frierson, Ian Robertson, James Saunders, Clyde Weber, Steven Zapton. Dr. Michael A. Bowers, Director of the State Arboretum, attended to address the board. Joan Butler was also present in her capacity as liaison to the Orland E. White Arboretum reporting on the ABS Memorial Garden at BJandy. After a meeting at Blandy, the ABS Board studies one 0/ the new signs to Paul Saunders, father of Tom and Jim make suggestions/or a new ABS Memorial Garden sign. (Photo: Decca G. Saunders and retired President of Frackelton) Saunders Bros., reported on his Boxwood Cultivar Testing project, Ward also reported that $2,500 was locate two articles for the Bulletin now titled "National Boxwood transferred to the German student, each quarter. International member Trials." Maria Landgraf (the Board approved contributions are welcome. An The meeting was called to order at $2,000 at the fall 1998 meeting and outline of each subcommittee's I :00 p.m. by the President, who Dr. Frierson personally added $500 to structure and focus needs to be welcomed Dr. Bowers and introduced the project). prepared and adopted by the Board. Paul Saunders. President Saunders proposed a Dr. Michael Bowers, Director of The draft of the minutes of the number of new subcommittees to Blandy, informed board members that September 25 , 1998, fall board assure a "better functioning Board Blandy is in the process of replacing meeting was approved with some and Society." He called for (1) a the old garden signs with new, modifications and will be published Budget Committee, to be chaired by uniform ones. Each sign will carry the in The Boxwood Bulletin Vo1.38, Charles Fooks; (2) the Nominating Blandy logo on the left side with red No.3, January 1999. Committee (already in existence and lettering on white background. His Mrs. Ward presented the changes to be voted upon during second announcement concerned the Treasurer's report showing $7,127.81 executive session at each Annual information Booth at the entrance to in the checking account and Meeting), to be chaired by Clyde the Arboretum. ABS will be given $16,167.63 in a certificate of deposit, Weber; (3) an Auction Committee, to one panel to inform visitors about the which matured on November 16, be chaired by John W. Boyd ill; (4) history and purpose of the memorial 1998 and was rolled over to continue the ABS Memorial Garden Commit­ garden. It is also planned that bro­ earning interest. Total income from tee, to be chaired by Joan Butler; (5) chures will be prepared to be avail­ dues, sales, and interest was the Research Committee, to be able at the booth. All agreed that Joan $1,239.93 during the last four chaired by Dr. Henry Frierson; and a Butler would be the logical person to months. During that period, combined Newsletter Committee, to be chaired work on preparing a short history of expenditures totaled $3,089.20. Mrs. by Steve Zapton. Mr. Zapton is to the Society and of the Memorial

April 1999 85 Garden for-both panel and brochure. to fill out a questionnaire pertaining Ginter Botanical Garden and She will also work with staff at to boxwood varieties for sale. It is Maymont, as well as three private Blandy on the design and execution hoped that responses will be swift gardens, Tuckahoe Plantation, of the new sign. Joan promised to and the new Buyer's Guide can be Redesdale, and Agecroft Hall, for the send a first draft out for comments by available in 1999. tour. Speakers will address topics board members within a month. Memorial Garden Design for such as soils and fertilizers. A panel Paul Saunders reported enthusias­ Two Parterres: Mrs. Frackelton' s discussion is planned to answer pre­ tically on his company's "National idea for two parterres in the Memo­ submitted questions from the audi­ Boxwood Trials." Saunders sent out rial Garden (one around the entrance ence. Mr. Weber volunteered to questionnaires listing some 20 sign, the second to incorporate the supply boxwood plants for the cultivars. Questions to be answered existing topiary and 'Graham meeting, his choice: Buxus sinica var. focus on exposure, protection, Blandy' in North Bed) was realized insuLaris 'Winter Gem'. A James prevailing winds, sun/shade, soil when Mrs. Frackelton and Mrs. River dinner cruise is planned for drainage, pruning rate, foliage Harriman, with the help of a col­ Friday evening. quality, and general assessment. league, Susan Pryor, planted about 80 Year 2000 Annual Meeting: Mrs. Hardiness zones will be added. 'Morris Midget' plants last Novem­ Gary Richardson from Annapolis has Among the participants are the U.S. ber. volunteered to look into hotel, National Arboretum, Lewis Ginter meeting space, and gardens to be Botanical Garden, Longwood visited in and around Annapolis in Gardens, North Carolina State 2000. She reported that she has no Arboretum, State Arboretum of speakers as yet. Virginia, and more. Responses have Year 2001 Annual Meeting: This been very good and Mr. Saunders meeting will be held at Blandy to plans to extend the survey. In closing commemorate the 40th anniversary he expressed his surprise and delight celebration of ABS. Ian Robertson at the great number of boxwoods he volunteered to chair that meeting. encountered on his trip through the Next Board Meeting: The next Mediterranean countries and into the Board meeting will be during the Ukraine last fall. ABS Annual Meeting on Thursday, Committee Reports May 20, 1999. Registrar's Report: Mr. Batdorf reported that he has finally returned Sigrid Georgii Harriman, Secretary to hi s work on the manuscript of the future Boxwood ManuaL. The Boxwood Bulletin: Mrs. Frackelton reported that at this Dr. and Mrs. Gary Richardson (right) moment she is finishing the January admire Carter FrackeLton's B. issue of the BuLLetin. The issue will sempervirens 'Graham BLandy '. have 24 pages and a number of (Photo: Carter FrackeLton) interesting articles. President Saunders expressed a heartfelt thanks OldlNew Business to Mrs. Frackelton for all her hard Planning for 1999 Annual work toward the issuance of each Meeting: Mrs. Ward reported on her In Memoriam BuLLetin. ongoing preparations. The Annual Updated Buyers Guide: Work Meeting will be May 20-22, 1999 in continues on the new edition of the Richmond, Virginia. The board is to Mrs. V. S. Eley Buyers Guide. An updated list of meet on the afternoon of May 20. Member since 1976 about 7,000 growers from the Rooms have been secured at the American Nurserymen's Association Innsbrook Comfort Suites in Glen Mr. D. Tennant Bryan is needed. The growers and nurseries Allen, with free conference spaces, Charter and Life Member will be contacted (letter to be pre­ breakfast and parking. Mrs. Ward pared by Mrs. Frackelton) and asked suggested two public gardens, Lewis

86 April 1999 %e Seasona[ gardener Practical tips for boxwood enthusiasts from Society members

Guidelines to Growing Boxwood in the Midwest

• Choose only boxwoods known to be hardy in the boxwood does well in neutral to slightly alkaline Midwest. (sweet.) soil to slightly acid soil, with preference to • Make sure the planting site has GOOD DRAIN­ the alkaline. AGE. A slight slope is fine. If area is level check • If soil at planting site-is heavy, replace it with good that rainwater does not stand for more than a few garden soil. Set the plant so that the soil line hours. If in doubt, dig a hole 18 in. deep and fill remains the same as it was in ball or container. it with water. The next morning check to see if Tamp soil gently around ball or roots. Make a any remains. If so, choose new site. Poor drain­ slight saucer at rim. Water gently and thoroughly. age is deadly to boxwood. Add more soil if needed. DO NOT FERTILIZE AT • Choose a site that is or can be protected from the THIS TIME. prevailing southwest winter wind. A wall, a • Check newly set plant daily for week or two. Water berm, a fence or conifer planting may give when needed. If there has been washing around adequate protection. If in doubt, use burlap roots, add more soil. screen (open at the top) for seasonal protection. • When plant has settled, ESTABLISH and MAIN­ • Exposures in order of preference are: north, TAIN a twice-monthly WATERING SCHEDULE northeast, south, southeast, east, and west. (unless there has been adequate rainfall) which • Large balled boxwoods should be planted as early includes both a thorough hosing out of plant in March as soil can be worked. Smaller box­ interior (an effective deterrent to spider mites) and woods (in containers or bare-rooted) should be a gentle soaking of root area. planted from mid-April into June. • STOP ALL WATERING from mid-August to mid­ • Planting hole should be prepared in advance October. This is boxwood's normal fall growing (especially for bare-rooted plants). It should be season and withholding water forces feeder roots to somewhat larger than ball, container or spread­ go deeper for moisture. This will help a plant out roots. weather a bad winter. Just before freezing weather • A boxwood plant can be set out at 3 yrs.; but the sets in, give the plant'S root area a long, gentle longer we work with the plant, the more con­ soaking which will help against winter damage. vinced we are that it is much better to wait until a • You also want to spray foliage with Wilt-Proof plant is at least 5 yrs. old before setting it into about now. [There is a difference of opinion on the garden or landscape position. Losses are unac­ use of anti-desiccants.] ceptably high with younger plants, especially if • A final note: Never forget that in the Midwest "a the first winters are severe. little bit of luck" helps! • The TEXTURE and FRIABILITY of the soil are more important than its pH. In our observation Mary Gamble