PLOWING THROUGH THE INTERNET GARDENING SOFTWARE OUR ANNUAL AWARDS American Horticultural Society

The American Horticultural Society seeks to promote and recognize American excellence in horticulture across America.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Horticulturist OFFICERS 1994-1995 Volume 74, Number 5 May 1995 Mrs. Sarah S. Boasberg Chairman Washington, D.C. ARTICLES Dr. William E. Barrick First Vice Chairman Kudos and Kilobytes Pine Mountain, Georgia We're especially excited about our Annual Meeting next month, June 22- Ms. Katy Moss Warner Second Vice Chairman 24. Not only is it our 50th, but we're gathering in one of the most in­ Lake Buena Vista, Florida credible gardening regions in the country-Philadelphia and the Mr. William A. Pusey Brandywine Valley of Pennsylvania and Delaware. As part of the meeting Secretary Washington, D.C. package, members will tour two inspiring private gardens. Optional tours Mr. Gerald T. Halpin of other private gardens, as well as Longwood and Winterthur, are avail­ Treasurer able before and after the meeting. Members should also get a lot of prac­ Alexandria, Virginia tical ideas on both garden design and plant choices from our speakers. A high point of our meetings is always the awards dinner on the last Dr. Thomas G. Amason Jr. night, and in this issue, we tell you about the people we'll be honoring. Birmingham, Alabama Mrs. Nancy H. Callaway If you can't arrange to join other members in Philadelphia, another pos­ Pine Mountain, Georgia sibility for chatting with fellow gardeners is as near as your computer. Also Mr. Paul EckeJr. in this issue, Assistant Editor Terri Huck reports on the results of our mini­ Encinitas, California survey to determine members' interest in computer services, and describes Dr. John Alex Floyd Jr. Birmingham, Ala bama various ways you can find gardening information on-line by "surfing" the Dr. Richa~d L. Lower Internet. Also in this issue, Editorial Assistant Nikole Williamson describes Madison, Wisconsin some of the computer software packages that serve as horticultural refer­ Mrs. Martyn L. Miller Ashton, Maryland ences or let you landscape your home, often in color and with three di­ Mrs. Walter M. Morgan Jr. mensional views. Nashville, Tennessee Mr. William G. Pannill Martinsville, Virginia DEPARTMENtS Dr. Julia W. Rappaport Santa Ana, California Members' Forum ...... 3 Mr. Geoffrey L. Rausch Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania Gardeners' Information Service ...... 4 Mrs. Jane N . Scarff New Carlisle, Ohio Conservationist's Notebook ...... 5 Mrs. Josephine M . Shanks Houston, Texas Mail-Order Explorer ...... 6 Mr. Emanuel Shemin Greenwich, Connecticut Plants and Your Health ...... 7 Mrs. Sellers J. Thomas Jr. Taking Root in Cyberspace ...... 8 Houston, Texas Mr. Robert D. Volk Landscapes with Byte ...... 10 San Marino, California Mr. Monroe Whitton AHS Award Winners ...... 12 Alexandria, Virginia Book Catalog ...... 16

PRESIDENT AHS Bulletin Board ...... 18 Dr. H. Marc Cathey Regional Happenings ...... 20 EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT Mrs. Helen Fulcher Walutes Classifieds ...... 22 News Briefs ...... 24

2 MAY 1995 American Horticulturist

Editor Kathleen Fisher MEMBERS' FORUM Assistant Editor Terri]. Huck Assistant Editor David]. Ellis Editorial Assistant A Call for Cooperation Our Impact on the Planet Nikole Williamson I was encouraged by your recent issue dis­ In response to Ronald]. Beavers] r.'s letter, Membership Director cussing the exotic species problem- not by "Environment Not a Luxury," in the Darlene Oliver the problem itself, which grows worse by March issue, I agree with his remarks one the minute, but by your recognition of its hundred percent. It behooves every person Editorial Advisory Board severity and your willingness to devote a on this planet, whether she/he is or is not a John Bryan whole issue to its discussion. gardener, to give serious thought to her/his Sausalito, California The obvious conclusion for your readers impact on it, not when it is convenient or John Creech should be that responsible horticulturists, politically expedient for a few hours, or on Hendersonville, North Carolina natural area managers, APHIS [the federal Earth Day, but on a daily basis. Animal and Plant Health Inspection Ser­ I believe that for organizations such as Keith Crotz vice], and the nursery industry should begin the American Horticultural Society to Chillicothe, Illinois to work together (for a change!). I hope bring environmental concerns to the atten­ Panayoti Kelaidis readers will carry this message to the lead­ tion of the membership is an important and Denver, Colorado ers of those entities. Guy Sternberg necessary function. None of us can afford Richard Lighty Petersburg, Illinois to sit back and ignore the fact that all of Greenville, Delaware our activities, including gardening, have an Peter Loewer Sternberg is on the board of directors of the impact, positive or negative, on the envi­ Asheville, North Carolina Illinois Native Plant Society and a member ronment, in both the short term and the of the Illinois Nurserymen's Association. long term. Suzanne Reed Elvin McDonald Silver Spring, Maryland Houston, Texas Request for a List Advertising I was very interested in yo ur issue about in­ Disappointment and Shame AHS Advertising Department vasive plants. What would be most helpful Bra vo for Ronald]. Beavers] r.! I agree 2300 South Ninth Street, Suite 501 to amateur gardeners such as myself is a with him in every way. I too felt disap­ Arlington, VA 22204-2320 printed list specifying for each quadrant of pointment and shame that fellow garden­ (703) 892-0733 the United States the invasive plants, trees, ers should assume such a negative stance vines, or shrubs that have become a prob­ about American Horticulturist's focus on Printer lem in those areas. Your magazine stated gardening that is healthy for people, wild­ William Byrd Press, Inc. that many garden centers sell, and even life, and the natural world. landscape architects purchase, plants that A wonderful publication for a wonder- Back issues of AMERICAN HORTICULTURIST News Edition are availa ble at a cost of $3 per copy. The opin­ shouldn't be used. How are we, the non­ fulorganization! Ann Kratzer ions expressed in the anicles that appear in AMERICAN professionals, to know about them if some St. Clair Shores, Michigan HORTICULTURIST are those of the authors and are not necessarily those of the Society. Botanical nomen­ magazine doesn't alert us to the problem as c1aturejn AMERICAN HORTICULTURIST is based on you have? Lucy L. Fowler Spreading the Word HORTUS THIRD. Manuscripts, artwork, and pho­ tographs sent for possible publication will be returned if Cambridge, Massachusetts To the people who have OD'd on "envi­ they are accompanied by a self·addressed, stamped en· ronmental stuff" - we truly need more, not velope. We cannot guaraptee the safe return of unso· licited material. At the time we wrote the articles, the only less, or we will OD on environmental stuff! national, state-by-state list we r------, As a garden designer, horticultur- AMERICAN HORTICULTURIST, ISSN 0096-4417, is the official publication of the American Hor.ticultural knew of was still being compiled al consultant, lecturer, and Society, 1931 East Boulevard Drive, Alexandria, VA by the newly formed Exotic Pest teacher, I spread the word con- 22308-1300, (703) 768-5700, and is issued 12 times a year~ The Ametican Hortkultural Society is a nonprofit Plant Council. They have since standy on chemical-free garden- 0rganization dedicated to excellence in horticulture. done more work on it and agreed ing. I am proud to say that I have Membership in the Society includes a subscdption to AMERICAN HORTICULTURIST. National member­ to let us distribute it to our mem- reached many people- and many ship dues are $45; two yea rs are S80. Foreign dues are bers. We estimate that with some have changed! They call me to $60. Copyright © 1995 by the American Horticultural Society. Second-class postage paid at Alexandria, Vir· reformatting it will be six pages long, so say "Thanks- my gardens are more beau­ ginia, and at additional mailing offices. Postmaster: printing it in our News Edition would be tiful and alive than ever before!" Please send form 3579 to AMERICAN HORTICUL­ TURIST, 7931 EaSt Boulevard Drive, Alexandria, VA impractical. We will be happy to reproduce I am thrilled with the AHS encourage­ 22308-1300. it for members who send $2 plus a self-ad- ment of environmentally responsible gar- Produced in U.S.A. dressed stamped envelope to us at 7931 East dening. Colleen Traylor Boulevard Drive, Alexandria, VA 22308. Holly, Michigan

AMERICAN HORTICULTURlST 3 GARDENERS' INFORMATION SERVICE

Q: A plant presented as a clue in a PBS sources, including: Fairweather Gardens, television mystery series was called P.O. Box 330, Greenwich, NJ 08323, (609) CLUELESS "gromwell." What can you tell us about 451-6261 (catalog $3); Forestfarm, 990 this plant? - E.A., Bethesda, Maryland Tetherow Road, Williams, OR 97544, Sometimes-just sometimes-GIS is (503) 846-6963 (catalog $3); Gossler stumped. This seems to be our sea­ A : According to Hortus Third and the Farms Nursery, 1200 Weaver Road, son for solving television mysteries. New York Botanical Garden Encyclopedia Springfield, OR 97478, (503) 746-3922 We received a call from CBS regard­ of Horticulture, gromwell is the common (catalog $2); and Greer Gardens, 1280 ing a script for a murder mystery name for plants in the genus Lithosper- Goodpasture Island Road, Eugene, OR with Bill Cosby in the role of a de­ mum. The genus consists of 44 species of 97401, (503) 686-8266 (catalog $3). tective and a plant called "Chinese hairy perennial herbs found on al(conti- Q petunia" in the role of a clue. But we nents except Australia. The roots are used : I know I am supposed to rotate my have been unable to verify that such to produce a red or purple dye, and the pro- vegetable crops, especially heavy feeders a plant exists. Do any of our readers fuse flowers vary from orange to white to and lighter feeders. But I'm not sure which have a clue, or is the Chinese petu­ shades of blue. Some species are cultivated plants are heavy feeders and which are nia just a figment of a TV script­ in rock garden~ and in borders. Several not. - T.R, East Lansing, Michigan writer's feverish imagination? dwarf shrubs once included in this genus A If you have information on this are now classified as Lithodora. One source : Heavy feeders are those plants that plant, please call our Gardeners' In­ of Lithospermum is Prairie Seed Source, need substantial nutrient uptake for normal formation Service at (800) 777-7931 P.O. Box 83, North Lake, WI 53064. healthy growth and maximum crop yields. between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. Eastern They include asparagus, broccoli, cabbages, Time, Monday through Friday, or Q : I can't find information on the cauliflower, celery, collards, corn, cucum­ write us at 7931 East Boulevard handkerchief tree. What can you tell me bers, eggplants, kale, lettuce, okra, peppers, Drive, Alexandria, VA 22308-1300. about it? potatoes, pumpkins, rhubarb, spinach, -BJ., Hilton Head, South Carolina squash, and tomatoes. Lighter feeders in- clude carrots, garlic, mustard, onions, shal­ which includes eggplants, potatoes, pep­ A : The handkerchief tree, Davidia in- lots, and turnips. All of these crops should pers, and tomatoes; Cruciferae, which in­ volucrata, is rare. A native of China, it is be rotated with leguminous crops that give cludes broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, also known as the dove tree. Its common back nutrients, especially nitrogen, to the mustard, and kale; and Cucurbitaceae, names are derived from its flowering habit. soil. Soil-restoring legumes include alfalfa, which includes pumpkins, squash, cucum­ The flowers have white bracts of unequal clover, beans, peanuts, peas, and soybeans. bers, and melons. size, the lower bract being about seven by Many people make crop rotation more four inches and the upper bract about four complicated than necessary. When rotating Q: I bought some tuberous begonias by two inches. It is usually grown as a spec- heavy-feeding, light-feeding, and nitrogen­ this year, and I'm already worried. How imen tree and can attain a height of 20 by providing plants, try the following plan: easy is it to overwinter them? 40 feet. In Michael Dirr's Manual of Grow a nitrogen crop the first season and -T.v., Sunman, Indiana Woody Landscape Plants, he compares its plow it under in the fall or early spring; fol­ shape to a linden's. The oval leaves are two low it with a light feeder and add compost A: The New York Botanical Garden to five inches long, and the oval ,------, to the area in the fall or early Encyclopedia of Horticulture suggests that fruits, which are one to two inch- spring; follow this with a heavy bedded or potted begonias be brought in­ es in diameter, become red in fall. feeder crop. After harvesting the doors just after the first frost. Put the plants It apparently has no serious pests heavy feeder, sow a green cover in a dry, shady place where there is some and is hardy in USDA Zones 6 to crop and repeat the cycle. air circulation and permit their tops to die. 8. About its only fault is that it You can also plan your crop Then remove the tops and store the tubers doesn't bloom until it is more rotation by plant families. In fact, in shallow trays or in net bags, suspended than 10 years old. the most important rotation practice you to protect them from rodents. The storage Many public gardens have specimens of should follow is to never plant the same temperature should be about 50 degrees. the dove tree. The one in the Asian area of family of plants in the same space each Some types of tubers seem to make it easi­ the U.S. National Arboretum will be year. This is especially crucial for families ly through this process, while others fare blooming this month. susceptible to disease and insect problems, poorly. -Neil Pelletier, Director There are a number of mail-order such as Solanaceae or nightshade family, Gardeners' Information Service

4 MAY 1995 CONSERVATIONIST'S NOTEBOOK

Crossed Palms Department of Agriculture publication to tall palm trees seen in the wild not far south n 1941, botanist Robert Vines of of the Brazoria site as late as 1876. Houston found an unusual grouping of Seeking to prove that the northern range I palmettos, including one 18 feet tall, in of S. mexicana had once been much a thick wood along the Gulf Coast in Bra- greater than was believed, Lockett began zoria County, Texas, about 50 miles south looking for a wild population of the palms of Houston. Since no native tree-size in the Brazoria region. Almost immediate- palms were then known north of the lower ly, he found a small cluster of S. mexicana, Rio Grande Valley, about 240 miles to the some more than 20 feet tall, growing a southwest, Vines theorized the palms short distance south of Brazoria. Scouring might be mature specimens of small, journals and records of the Spanish ex- trunked palms found in Louisiana and plorers who first colonized the area, he dis- southeast Texas, Saballouisiana. In 1944, covered several references to tall palm however, Cornell botanist Liberty Hyde trees along the central Gulf Coast of Bailey declared S. louisiana to be a caules- Texas. The palms' disappearance from the cent, or trunked, form of S. minor, a dwarf coast in the late 19th century apparently palmetto native from North Carolina resulted from their use as pilings for south and west to Florida, Missouri, and wharves and as landscape transplants. Texas. Typical dwarf palmettos exhibit lit- Lockett and Read suspect the palm once tie or no above-ground trunk, the leaves ranged along the rivers of the central Gulf gotiations with the property owners, in emerging almost directly from the ground. Coast of Texas as far north as the San March 1994 the conservancy purchased 23 Intrigued by Vines' description of the Bernard River in Brazoria County. acres of the approximately 90-acre tract on Brazoria palms, Austin resident Landon After examining the Brazoria palms on which the trunked palms are scattered. Lockett, an accomplished linguist with a site, Read concluded they were likely a hy- Robert Potts, director of conservation pro­ strong interest in ecology and conservation, brid of S. mexicana and S. minor. Accord- grams for the conservancy's Texas office, visited the site in the mid '60s. Sidetracked ing to Read, the palms show characteristics says the purchased portion contains the for several years teaching in Mexico and of leaf structure that are intermediate be- majority of the trunked palms, but Lockett Brazil, Lockett and his wife, Carol, re- tween the two species and more variation is hoping the remainder of the property can turned in 1989 to take another look at the between individual specimens than is usu- be purchased to keep the palms' habitat in­ palms and were dismayed to learn the land ally seen in non hybrid species at one loca- tact. The Nature Conservancy is planning on which they were growing was for sale. tion. Read plans to publish a detailed to transfer the land to the U.S. Fish and He immediately contacted both The Na- evaluation of the palms. If confirmed as a Wildlife Service sometime this year. Ac­ ture Conservancy of Texas and the Texas hybrid species, the Brazoria palms would cording to Mike Lange, a wildlife biologist Parks and Wildlife Department to urge be the only naturally occurring and repro- with the Brazoria National Wildlife Refuge conservation of the trees. "I just made up ducing hybrid palms known in the United (NWR), the site will fall under the juris­ my mind this was something unusual that States. Read and Lockett are proposing to diction of the Brazoria NWR complex, a needed to be saved," says Lockett. name the Brazoria palms 5. x texensis. collection of preserves in the Brazoria Lockett enlisted the aid of ,.--,------,,----.....,--...,.-.,....,, Armed with the conclusions of County region totaling about 70,000 acres. Robert W. Read, a palm special- his and Read's research, Lockett Lange praised Lockett's role in calling at­ ist about to retire from his posi- resumed his campaign to secure tention to the palms. "If it wasn't for Lan­ tion as a botanist at the National conservation of the palms, point- don's interest and persistence, it's unlikely Museum of Natural History in ing out that the site constitutes a the palms would have been protected." Washington, D.C. Based on pho- natural genetic laboratory where Apparently a lot of other people feel the tographs and specimens sent by researchers could study an ongo- same way, because the Native Plant Soci­ Lockett, Read suspected the palms might ing evolutionary process in its ecological ety of Texas presented Lockett with the be a form of the Texas palmetto (5. mexi- context. Lockett and others interested in Nancy Benedict Memorial Award last Oc­ cana), a tall palm native to Central Ameri- the conservation of the palms raised tober, "for an act of conservation and pub­ ca and Mexico but not known to occur $43,000 and finally convinced The Nature lic service in the field of Texas native naturally north of the southernmost tip of Conservancy to purchase the Brazoria plants." -David J. Ellis Texas. Read found reference in a 1908 U.S. property. After more than two years of ne- Assistant Editor

AMERI CAN HO RTI CULTU RI ST 5 MAIL-ORDER EXPLORER

Championing the Southeast compact-less than two-acre-nursery. era I law restricts interstate commerce in Among Woodlanders' clients are many endangered species, however, these plants en it comes to sources for un- East Coast arboreta, some of which permit can only be mailed within South Carolina usual plants, especially south- the nursery to propagate their new plant or purchased at the nursery. McCartney W eastern natives, Woodlanders, species. Sylvester March, head of Educa- feels strongly that the restrictions on in­ Inc., in Aiken, South Carolina, is high on tion and Visitor Services at the u.S. Na- terstate commerce are actually counter­ the lists of most avid horticulturists. "I tiona I Arboretum in Washington, D.C.; productive to conservation. "Without a view them as a national treasure. They've says Woodlanders is one of the nurseries it legitimate source for these plants, the only been remarkable in introducing and grow- provides with an initial stock of seeds or way for determined people to get their ing things no one has tried before," says cuttings from new plants. "We see them as hands on them is to take them from the J. C. Raulston, director of North Carolina a key source of rare and unusual plants for wild," he says. He would like to see a State University Arboretum in Raleigh. the American public," says March. process by which nurseries could become Garden writer and photographer Pam- Joan Feely, curator of the arboretum's certified to propagate and sell endangered ela Harper, author of Color Echoes and native plant collection, says Woodlanders species. Some botanists argue that allow­ Designing with Perennials, says the nurs- has "a pretty remarkable selection of mag- ing endangered species to grow out of their ery "offers an enormous range of plants nolias, including anise magnolia (Magno- native range risks corruption of the gene that are not available at other nurseries. lia salicifolia), and a number of osmanthus pool, but McCartney's philosophy is that There's a great spirit of adventure there. In you don't often see elsewhere." The ar- species spread naturally over time and the current climate, when everybody is boretum has also used the nursery as a many common ornamentals are the prod­ talking about natural gardens, they were source for Conradina, a low-growing uct of merged genotypes. one of the first nurseries to introduce a lot shrub with gray needlelike leaves, and for Harry Elkins, a retired school teacher of southeastern natives." uncommon evergreen gingers such as living in Grosse Pointe Park, Michigan, Bringing the little-known native plants Hexastylis speciosum and H. arifolia. grows several endangered species-in­ of the Southeast to the attention of gar- Wood landers' plants are also integrated cluding Virginia round-leaf birch (Betula deners was one of the reasons Robert and into animal habitat reconstructions at the uber), Florida stinking cedar (Torreya tax­ Julia Mackintosh founded Wood landers in North Carolina Zoological Park in Ashe- ifolia), and dwarf fringetree (Chionanthus 1980. Originally a landscape architect, boro, North Carolina. Virginia Wall, the pygmaeus}-that he picked up during vis­ Robert says he "got tired of dealing with zoo's curator of horticulture, says Mc- its to Woodlanders. "It's a lot of fun know­ people, but loved working with plants." Cartney visited the park and suggested ing that there is a place that handles these Before moving to Aiken in 1975, the cou- plants for various habitats, including an plants," he says. Elkins has also been im­ pie worked in New England and on the African savanna exhibit and a swamp area. pressed that Woodlanders has kept the Caribbean island of Grenada, where Julia, "What's so good about them is that we price of its plants down. "I've seen the who has degrees in architecture and biolo- know the plants are nursery-propagated. I same plants sold at other nurseries where gy, worked as a teacher. Shortly after start- also like their encouragement of natives- the size and quality don't measure up, and ing the nursery, the couple met Robert they are prime movers in that area." sometimes the prices are up to three times McCartney, who at the time was the horti- Cheryl Lowe, managing horticulturist as much." culturist for Colonial Williamsburg, Vir- for the New England Wild Flower Society's Norman Beal, a retired county Exten­ ginia, and convinced him to become a Garden in the Woods in Framingham, sion agent living in Raleigh, North Caroli­ partner. McCartney's background rniiiiiiiiiiiiiijj;;;~ Massachusetts, says the society na, concurs. "They have such high-quality, in conservation and wildlife man- has been purchasing from Wood- good-size plants at a very competitive agement had familiarized him landers since 1981. "A lot of price, and they are constantly bringing in with southeastern native plants. southeastern natives have proven new plants that are not available anywhere His seed-collecting forays in the hardy here," says Lowe, listing else. All the progressive nurseries seem to United States and overseas-in- native wisterias, osmanthus, Sty- be following those guidelines." -D.E. cluding a recent trip to Argenti- rax americanus, and Magnolia na-have produced many of Wood landers' ashei. A hardier selection of the Carolina Woodlanders does not accept orders or plant introductions. jessamine (Gelsemium sempervirens), how- ship plants between April 1 and September George Mitchell, who worked with the ever, succumbed to the hard winter of 1994. 30, but you can get on the mailing list for Mackintoshes in Grenada, handles most of Woodlanders is one of the few nurseries the 1995-96 catalog, published in Septem­ the propagation duties. Four other employ- that propagates and sells several plants on ber, by sending $2 to Woodlanders, Inc., ees round out the staff of the surprisingly the federally endangered list. Because fed- 1128 Colleton Avenue, Aiken, SC 29801.

6 MAY 1995 PLANTS AND YOUR HEALTH

Devil in Angel's Petals widely naturalized around the world, jim­ sonweed is an annual that grows two to five pate of poisoning incidents in­ feet tall with coarsely toothed, dark green volving teenagers in several states leaves and trumpet-shaped white to purple .Nas been linked to intentional in­ flowers that can reach five inches in length. gestion of Datura and related Brugmansia The name "stink weed" derives from the species. Particularly abused is Datura stra­ unpleasant smell of the plant, while "thorn monium, a weedy North American native apple" refers to the spine-covered capsular known as jimsonweed, thorn apple, stink fruit it bears. Symptoms of jimsonweed poi­ weed, or angel's trumpet. Unaware of the soning occur within 30 to 60 minutes after deadly nature of these plants, but intrigued ingestion and, depending on how much is by their reputed hallucinogenic qualities, eaten and the concentration of the alka­ adolescents are sometimes tempted to eat loids, may include thirst, blurred vision, or make a tea out of various plant parts. rapid heartbeat, agitation, hallucinations, Ornamental daturas and brugmansias seizures, coma, and death. Because the al­ are also coming under close scrutiny, par­ kaloids slow the digestive process, symp­ ticularly in southern states where these toms may continue for as long as 48 hours. mainly subtropical species flourish. In Jan­ Inconsistency in the taxonomy and com­ uary, following an incident in which sever­ mon names of Datura and Brugmansia al youths became ill, the city council in the Jimsonweed (Datura stramonium) species has led to confusion both in poi­ central Florida city of Maitland passed an soning incidents and in gardening circles. ordinance banning the planting of certain used therapeutically the toxic dose and the The genera were at one time united in the Datura and Brugmansia species. And offi- therapeutic dose are so close it has to be Datura genus, but taxonomists now seem cia Is with the Orange County, Florida, highly controlled," says Foster. "There's no to accept a division between the shrubby sheriff's department, hampered by an in- way of gauging the dosage in crude plant herbaceous daturas, which are often grown ability to regulate misuse of the plants, are material. In other words, it's an extremely as annuals and have upward-pointing flow­ putting together a proposal for legislation dangerous practice." ers, and the taller woody brugmansias, that would add the combination of active The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and which are more commonly grown as tree­ chemicals found in Datura and Brugman- Prevention, based in Atlanta, Georgia, pub­ like shrubs and have drooping flowers. sia species to the state list of controlled sub- lished a report about the dangers of jim­ Both genera have been known by the com­ stances. Possession of parts of the plants in son weed, which is blamed for the deaths of mon name of angel's trumpet, but garden an altered form would then be illegal. two teenagers in Texas last June, in the J an- writers seem to be leaning toward reserving All members of the Datura and Brug- uary 27 issue of its publication Morbidity that name for brugmansias and using vari­ mansia genera contain the toxic alkaloids and Mortality. According to the report, in­ ations on the name thorn apple for daturas. atropine, hyoscyamine, and scopolamine. cidents of jimsonweed poisoning are usual­ Despite the toxicity associated with both Certain species have traditionally been ly sporadic, but a "clustering of cases may genera, many gardeners find the exotic fo­ used by native cultures around the world follow press and broadcast reports that ... liage and large, fragrant, evening-blooming for medicinal or ceremonial purposes. At- do not emphasize the adverse effects" of flowers of the ornamental species too irre­ ropine was at one time used in ,------, jimsonweed ingestion. sistible to exclude from their gardens. the treatment of asthma, and In 1993, the American Associ- Those who do choose to grow them are ad­ ophthalmologists have used it to ation of Poison Control Centers vised to take some precautions to prevent induce pupil dilation. received 318 reports of jimson- ingestion by children. Such precautions Steven Foster, author of nu- weed exposure. Jimsonweed did could include planting them in the back of merous books on poisonous and not rank among the top 20 plants flower beds and out of sight or reach of medicinal plants, says members named in poison control center passersby, and deadheading the flowers to of the Datura genus are especially haz- calls. But some of those plants, such as the prevent production of seed pods. Garden­ ardous because the concentration of toxic poinsettia, are erroneously reputed to be ers are also advised to take care when han­ alkaloids varies from plant to plant, from poisonous, while the incidents regarding dling the plants. The juice from bruised one part of a plant to another, and from jimsonweed consumption are more likely flowers or stems can cause ill effects if trans­ season to season. "The problem with bel- to require medical care. ferred to the mouth or eyes-for instance, ladonna-type alkaloids is that even when Believed native to North America but when inserting contact lenses. -D.E.

AMERlCAN HORTICULTURlST 7 Taking Root ln• Cyberspace

n recent months, there has been an Southern Living, Sunset, and Allen Lacy's explosion of interest in the Internet, Homeground newsletter are already on­ the worldwide network of comput­ line and will soon be joined by plant soci­ ers. Everyone is experimenting with ety magazines as well as American this new technology that promises to Horticulturist. The Virtual Garden also of­ Irevolutionize the way we share informa­ fers a searchable data base of plants with tion. Gardeners are no exception. pictures and instructions for growing more Those who haven't been bitten by the than 1,400 genera; descriptions of 200 bug may not understand the tremendous popular house plant species; and instruc­ appeal of gardening on the Internet, where, tions for specific gardening projects. at the touch of a button, you can converse Once a user reaches the Virtual Garden, with gardeners nationwide or explore re­ they will be able to find the "home page" sources far beyond your own bookshelves. for AHS information. In addition to offer­ Only on the Internet can you take an in­ ing excerpts from American Horticulturist formational tour of the trees on the Idaho magazine and News Edition, AHS will post State University campus, sneak a peek at fact sheets from our Gardeners' Informa­ the Missouri Botanical Garden, and check on-line answers to personal gardening tion Service and recent question-and-an­ out the latest discussion of deer-proof ever­ questions and gardening tips as "useful" to swer columns. We also plan to give greens in the "rec.gardens" newsgroup­ "very useful," with 90 percent finding ac­ gardeners the opportunity to ask for guid­ all in a matter of minutes. cess to AHS publications useful. Many ance from our horticultural experts. The The Internet wasn't always humming members also asked for critiques of com­ AHS book service will be on-line, complete with talk of mail-order nurseries, requests puter gardening software; see page 10 for with reviews, a listing of available books, for hard-to-find seeds, and discussions of our first foray into this new area. and an order form. composting techniques. Developed in the In light of our members' interest and the Also included will be a directory of hor­ 1960s to aid military defense research and opportunity to reach a large gardening au­ ticultural professionals. (If you offer pro­ development, the Internet has since evolved dience, we are pleased to announce plans fessional horticultural services and would into a massive system connecting approxi­ to join the Time Life, Inc., Virtual Garden like to be in our listing, please see the April mately 20,000 computer networks run by site on the World Wide Web. 1995 American Horticulturist for a sign-up universities, businesses, and the govern­ Since last October, Time Life has been es­ form, or call (800) 777-7931 for more in­ ment. Experts believe as many as 40 mil­ tablishing the Virtual Garden as a gather­ formation. This service is free and available lion computers worldwide are linked ing spot for gardening enthusiasts to only to AHS members.) through the Internet. interact with horticultural experts. Offer­ The information we offer on the Internet Judging from the results of the American ings are currently divided among a Maga­ will no doubt evolve and change as we ex­ Horticultural Society's recent computer zine Rack, Time Life Gardening Library, plore this new technology and receive feed­ survey, many members have already real­ and Garden Bookshelf. The publications back from our members and other users. ized the potential of the computer as a gar­ dening tool. We heard from more than 200 of you who are enthusiastic about having CYBERSPACE GARDENING TOOLS access to computerized gardening infor­ mation. Although responses continue to To dig around in the Time Life, Inc., Virtual Garden and AHS's plot there (begin­ trickle in, we wanted to update you on the ning this summer), you'll need a few simple tools: results and on AHS plans to join the cy­ berspace gardening community. • IBM-compatible computer with Windows or a Macintosh computer. Among AHS members who responded, • Full Internet access to the World Wide Web - only available now through one IBM-compatible users outnumber Macin­ major commercial service (Prodigy), but the others (CompuServe, America On­ tosh users four to one. More members have line, etc.) expect to give World Wide Web browsers to their subscribers by the Internet access than have CD-ROM drives end of 1995. Otherwise, you need to subscribe through a regional "gateway." (90 percent versus 59 percent), which ex­ • A Web browser - software that enables you to maneuver through sites and view plains the strong interest in on-line access graphics. The most popular ones are Mosaic, Netscape, and Cello. As with any to gardening and AHS information. A software, make sure the browser is compatible with your system capabilities. whopping 95 percent of respondents rated

8 MAY 1995 GARDENS ON THE INTERNET Graduate School of Library Science at the University of Illi­ nois, Urbana-Champaign. he following is a list of gardening sites on the Internet. http://mirror.wwa.comlmirror/gardenlpatch.htm - The Gar­ We reached all of them through the Web browser den Patch, featuring the Garden Exchange of seeds, plants, T Netscape 1.0. This is by no means a comprehensive and information; Garden Tips; and the Spider's Web (see de­ list-services are being added and expanded all the time-but scription below). it should help you get started. Sites are maintained by a broad http://mirror.wwa.comlmirrorlgardenlspdrsweb.htm - The range of organizations and individuals, and vary widely in their Garden Spider's Web, which offers virtual garden tours; offerings. horticultural information resources; lists of magazines, books, and catalogs; and a list of Internet newsgroups. General Gardening http://www.cfn.cs.dal.calRecreationlGardeninglG_G_Home. http://www.pathfinder.comlvgl - The Virtual Garden from html - GARDENS+GARDENING through Chebucto Time Life, Inc. Look for AHS publications and information FreeNet, a community network serving metropolitan Hali­ this summer. fax in Nova Scotia, Canada. This service offers the oppor­ http://www.olympus.netlgardens/welcome.html - Garden­ tunity to receive answers from fellow gardeners about Net, which bills itself as "An Internet Information Center gardening issues and maintains a list of resources for gar­ for Garden and Gardening Enthusiasts." Offers limited in­ dening on the Internet. formation as of press time, but expects to expand offerings in the near future. Specialized Areas http://192.1 04.3 9 04/ AABGAI aabga l.html - Will feature im­ http://islander.whidbey.netl-kabowers/Meerkerk.html- A ages and text about member gardens of the American As­ tour of rhododendrons in bloom at Meerkerk Gardens on sociation of Botanical Gardens and Arboreta, the Whidbey Island in Washington state's Puget Sound region. professional association for public gardens in North Amer­ http://seidel.ncsa.uiuc.eduIPBM-FAQ/ - A clearinghouse for ica. At press time, the Missouri Botanical Garden is the only information about ordering plants by mail, maintained by organization on-line, offering information on its research an avid gardener. projects, a photographic tour of the garden, and access to its plant data base. Many state Extension services have on-line information; http://prairienet.orglaglgardenlhomepage.htm - The Gar­ check with your local office or explore some of the Internet re­ den Gate, which offers a comprehensive list of Internet re­ sources listed above. In addition, the National Gardening As­ sources, with direct connections to many. This site is sociation operates a Gardening Forum on CompuServe, maintained through Prairienet, a community service of the bringing experts together in workshops and bulletin boards.

We'll let you know- through our publica­ 'A!!~I======~I ~~ tions and through the Virtual Garden-as soon as AHS is on-line, which is scheduled ~ Snow Creek ~ to occur this summer. Obviously, gardening on the Internet can never replace the real thing, and on-line in­ Dayli IYGardenS formation won't make other methods of communication obsolete. After all, as I:!'Please send your latest fuD-color Catalog. $2 enclosed. • PLEAsE PRINT • many members are quick to remind us, you NAME ______can't lug your computer, modem, and phone line out into the garden for quick Exquisite, proven vari£ties, developed by leading hylJridizers, and pictured in luscious ADDRESS ---______reference while you're planting seeds, or color from the people at B&D Lilies. Send read your favorite on-line gardening mag­ $2for your copy today. CITY______STATE__ ZIP___ _ azine while relaxing in your hammock. At IVISA IfAiiIiiiiIil Photocopy, or clip & and mail with payment to: least, not yet. - Terri J. Huck ~ ~ Snow Creek Nursery· 330 P Street - Dept H • Port Townsend, WA 98368 ~ Assistant Editor ..,,~~~~~==;;;;;;;;;;;;===;;;;;;;;;;;;=====;d~~

AMERICAN HORTICULTURIST 9 Landscapes with Byte

!though respondents to our Farm prices. Each plant in the library is de­ survey on "gardening by scribed and pictured both as an illustration computer" rated on-line ser­ and a photograph. And if the computer is vices as the most useful way equipped with sound, the program will to get information, many of pronounce those tricky botanical names. Ayou also said you'd like to hear more about LandDesigner comes with a wide range other computer technology, such as land­ of hardscape symbols for walls and fenc­ scape design programs and horticultural ing, rocks and other materials for walk­ data bases. ways, and single items such as a bird bath So far, we've obtained three of the lead­ or fountain. Tree symbols are classified by ing landscape design programs for home height, shape, and leaf retention. For the use and taken them for a test drive. We've gardener who is stumped for design ideas, obtained information on a large number of the program includes garden templates others, for which we offer their manufac­ such as a Moon Garden and a Shade Bor­ turers' descriptions. der. A push of a button can add the element We would love to hear comments, pro of time by demonstrating growth through and con, from members who've used these System requirements: 386DX, Windows the years. Seasonal changes are also in­ or other computer programs. 3.1,4 MB RAM, and 7 MB hard disk space. cluded in the design by layering seasonal $14.95. Expert Software, Inc., 800 Douglas plantings over the hardscape plan. And, Expert Landscape Design 3D Road, Coral Gables, FL 33134. once the design is finished, the program This program offers an ideal opportuni­ will even print an order form for plants ty for Windows users to transfer their land­ LandDesigner from White Flower Farm. scape ideas to paper before digging up the LandDesigner combines book quality System requirements: 386SX CPU, Win­ whole back yard. It is inexpensive and easy photos-more than 1,000 images from dows 3.1, 4 MB RAM, and CD-ROM to use. A quick tutorial exercise explains White Flower Farm- and a full set of draw­ drive. $49.95. Green Thumb Software, the basic functions and displays the pro­ ing tools to design the year-round garden. Inc., 75 Manhattan Drive, Suite 100, Boul­ gram in detail. Utilizing CD-ROM capabilities, this pro­ der, CO 80303. Drawing tools can be used to create per­ gram comes with an extensive reference li­ manent features such as fences, patios, brary that can be amended or expanded. It 3D Landscape walkways, pools, lawns, and buildings, in­ is able to suggest suitable plants based on 3D Landscape, another CD-ROM pro­ cluding walls, roof, and floor slabs of any criteria such as hardiness zone and soil gram, is ideal for anyone building or buy­ shape or dimension. Plants are introduced type, estimate the quantity of plants re­ ing a new home and planning the into the design by dragging modifiable quired for the design, and estimate costs of landscape. Its strong points are the many plant symbols from a library of more than plantings based on current White Flower hardscape drawing symbols and capabili­ 300 plants. The library consists primarily ties and the practical advice for construc­ of trees and shrubs, which are listed by tion projects. While LandDesigner has an common name. Flowering plants are mere­ extensive herbaceous plant library, 3D ly classified as annual, perennial, or vine, Landscape's plant index focuses more on and are categorized by flower color. The trees, shrubs, and other permanent garden program does not offer planting sugges­ plantings. The program is divided into two tions or include descriptions of plants in sections: the reference how-to guide and the library. the designer. One of the most interesting features of The how-to guide is laid out like an "on­ this program is its capability of showing screen" book with a table of contents, the finished design in three dimensions, giv­ chapters, and a page turner that, unlike fin­ ing the user true height and perspective on gers, never needs licking. This section con­ plant placement. The program also in­ tains valuable information on site cludes a budget sheet to list all purchases A LandDesigner plan lets the garden preparation, building projects, and plant for the design. The designs can be scaled designer experiment with plantings selection and care. It covers some practical for any size project and labeled using the before investing time and money on applications such as renting equipment, text feature. the real thing. rough grading, improving the soil, pur-

10 MAY 1995 OTHER COMPUTER GARDENING PROGRAMS Design Programs Advantage Point Landscape: Various landscape perspectives in three-dimensions. Pre-drawn plant symbols plus a drawing tool for creating additional symbols. De­ signs may be manipulated to reflect seasonal changes. DOS. $40. Synergistic Soft­ ware, Inc., P.O. Box 186, Issaquah, WA 98027. Design Your Own Home Landscape: Alternate landscape views-top, front, back, and sides. Pre-drawn trees and shrubs from a modifiable plant library; draw­ ing tools can be used to add more symbols to the library. Includes a maturing func­ tion. DOS, Macintosh, Apple II, and Apple II GS. $49.95-$99.95. Abracadata Ltd., P.O. Box 2440, Eugene, OR 97402. Mum's The Word Plus: A combination drawing and data base program with pre-drawn plant symbols. Able to suggest plantings for users' criteria. Modifiable data base of more than 600 plants. Plants listed by common and botanical names. Macintosh. $165. Terrace Software, P.O. Box 271, Medford, MA 02155. Sprout: Designed for planning vegetable gardens. Pre-drawn plant symbols are automatically placed with correct spacing on the plan. Includes a garden calendar with planting and harvesting dates, a chart specifying pH requirements of your chosen plants, and yield estimates showing how many people can be fed from your garden. DOS, $59.95. Macintosh, $79.95. Abracadata Ltd., P.O. Box 2440, Eu­ gene, OR 97402.

The 3D Landscape computer program Data Bases allows gardeners to view their design Better Homes and Gardens Complete Guide to Gardening: Cultural information ideas as a finished plan in three on specific plants, gardening techniques, and calendar reminders. Includes demon­ dimensions. stration gardens with complete plant listings and full-color photographs. Also demonstrates techniques using videos. CD-ROM for Windows and Macintosh. chasing materials, and choosing a lawn $49.95. Multicom Publishing, 1100 Olive Way, Suite 1250, Seattle, WA 98101. grass. This is also where the uninspired will Florafile: A modifiable data base featuring more than 600 plants. Program se­ find suggestions in the gallery of ideas. lects planting suggestions based on your criteria. Includes capacity for notes on The designer section combines drawing each plant to aid in tracking performance in the garden. Also contains a hardiness tools with an extensive collection of hard­ map, a bibliography of plant information sources, and a list of commercial sources. scape feature symbols to cover every aspect Windows. $49. Terrace Software, P.O. Box 271, Medford, MA 02155. of a design from the kitchen window to the Flower, Bulb, and Plant Finder: Three searchable and modifiable data bases with downspout on the tool shed. Utility lines selection, growing, germination, and propagation information. Includes mail-order both overhead and buried, sprinkler sys­ sources. DOS. $89. Infopoint Software, Box 83, Arcola, MO 65603. tems, sidewalks, drains, and lights are also Garden Companion: A searchable data base with more than 1,000 plant entries. taken into account. Plants are first selected Searches and suggests plantings based on 43 criteria. Includes idea gardens, a for the design only as symbols based on monthly planner, an encyclopedia, a pronunciation guide, and a photo gallery. Win­ their size and growth habits, such as a dows, CD-ROM. $49.95. Lifestyle Software Group, 63 Orange Street, St. Augus­ round tree, an arching shrub, or a hedge tine, FL 32084. plant. Later the plant selector can be used Garden View: A data base of trees, plants, shrubs, and flowers with a landscap­ to choose from a data base of more than ing fixture graphics library. Used by professional landscapers and nursery opera­ 400 plants, each listed by botanical and tors as a design and sales tool. Features three-dimensional color display. DOS. common names, to fill in for the symbols. $195. Mindsun, Dept. G., RD 2, Box 710, Andover, NJ 07821. The designer includes a growth-over-time The Gardener's Assistant: A modifiable data base of 50 vegetables and a garden feature, a shadow caster displaying shad­ layout tool. An interactive program capable of producing a suggested layout with ow patterns for any time of day or year, harvest dates. DOS. $15. Shannon Software Ltd., 2912 Pine Springs Road, Falls and a slope feature to plan landscapes on Church, VA 22042. hills and contoured land. (It takes some practice to master the slope feature, how­ Journal ever.) And, of course, as the name implies, Hart Man Version 2: A personalized data base for the home gardener or pro­ the design can be viewed in three dimen­ fessional. Keeps a list of tasks and categorizes plants by location, by types of plants, sions at any point in the design process. or by the criteria you choose. Easily transfers information to and from diskette and System requirements: Windows 3.1, 4 imports from other sources using a specified format. DOS. $59.95. Sunrise Soft­ MB RAM, 5 MB hard disk space, and CD­ ware, 4821 Clydelle Avenue, San Jose, CA 95124-4209. ROM drive. $50. Books That Work, P.O. Perpetual Garden Journal and Reminder System: A simple key-ward-searchable Box 10230, 2300 Geng Road, Building 3, journal that can record years of garden activities. Prints calendars and includes a Suite 100, Palo Alto, CA 94303. reminder system. DOS. $29. Double-Pawed Software, 432 Bigelow Hollow Road, -Nikole Williamson Eastford, CT 06242. Editorial Assistant

AMERICAN HORTICULTURIST 11 AHS Award Winners

Catherine Sweeney Award This award, given for extraordinary and dedicated efforts in the field of horticul­ ture, goes this year to Pamela Cunningham Copeland, whose gardens at Mount Cuba, near Wilmington, Delaware, will be visit­ y ed during this year's Annual Meeting. I A native of Litchfield, Connecticut, she was encouraged by her mother to develop an interest in wildflowers. Her late hus­ band, Lammot du Pont Copeland, was the Liberty Hyde Bailey Award fluence in the political and international great-great-grandson of E. 1. du Pont, the The Liberty Hyde Bailey Award is the realms as well as in publishing in an effort founder of the chemical company. For American Horticultural Society's highest to create a healthier, solution-oriented them, as for so many other members of the award, bestowed upon an individual who world. du Pont family, a beautiful landscape was has made significant contributions in at Rodale once wrote, "No one, not even a priority when they built their home at least three of the following areas of horti­ J. 1. Rodale or myself, can overestimate the Mount Cuba. cultural activity: teaching, research, writ­ importance of the organic method to The grounds near their home were for­ ing, plant exploration, administration, art, human survival. As one who knows and mally landscaped, but the focus of Cope­ business, and leadership. To say that this understands something about organic land's gardening changed in the 1960s year's winner excelled in nearly all of these methods, you have a responsibility beyond when her children were grown. Recalling areas would be no exaggeration, and so the the problems that afflict your own garden. her love of native plants, she immersed her­ Society takes the unusual step of present­ Your obligation is to use your organic un­ self in the topic. She designed 20 acres fea-. ing this award posthumously. derstanding to try to stem the tide of envi­ turing plants native to the Piedmont region In 1960 Robert Rodale became editor of ronmental degradation." of the Appalachians and established the Organic Gardening, the magazine found­ It was a loss to the entire horticultural Mount Cuba Center for the Study of Pied­ ed by his father, J. 1. Rodale. He followed community when Rodale died in a car ac­ mont Flora, intended to encourage preser­ his father's lead in educating Americans cident in Moscow in 1990. At the time Ro­ vation of areas where these plants still about the healthful effects of organic grow­ dale was working on a joint publishing grow naturally. The center also makes se­ ing methods and about each individual's venture called Novii Fermer (The New lections of these plants more widely avail­ responsibility for the environment. Rodale Farmer), a fresh resource for Soviet grow­ able to gardeners. The property is now eventually became the head of Rodale ers in their efforts toward sustainability. open to the public on a limited basis and Press, a pu blisher of health- and fitness-ori­ Anthony Rodale, Robert's son, will be ac­ has been endowed to continue its impor­ ented books and magazines, using his in- cepting the award on his father's behalf. tant educational mission after her death.

12 MAY 1995 A winner of the Pennsylvania Horticul­ Currently leading seminars around the tural Society's Distinguished Achievement country for the California Cut Flower Award, Copeland has served on the boards Commission, van Rems is an innovative flo­ of the Winterthur Museum in Delaware ral designer whose work has been featured and the National Trust for Historic Preser­ at San Francisco's De Young Museum of vation, among many others. Art and the San Diego Museum of Art. He won the Society of American Florists' Sylvia Cup design competition in 1991. Van Rems' education began with an ap­ prenticeship with retail florist Abel Ver­ heijen. He later attended the Aalsmeer Floriculture Institute, where he studied the entire spectrum of the floral industry, from propagating and harvesting floral crops to wholesaling and retailing floral products.

ident of the American College of Rheuma­ tology, and chief consultant in medicine, European Theater of Operations, during World War II. McEwen was a founding member of the Arthritis Foundation and has written parts of four books and 51 ar­ ticles on rheumatic diseases.

Luther Burbank Award The Luther Burbank Award was created to recognize extraordinary achievement in the field of plant breeding. This year's winner is Currier McEwen of South Harpswell, Maine, who has demonstrated this excel­ lence in his lifelong work in hybridizing irises and daylilies. McEwen has introduced 98 Siberian iris­ es, 34 Japanese irises, and 43 daylilies since Commercial Award 1954. He has served as president of both The winner of this year's Commercial the Society for Siberiafl Irises and the Soci­ Award, Kurt Bluemel, has demonstrated a ety for Japanese Irises, as well as board commitment to the highest standards of member and regional vice president of the commercial horticulture. New York and New England Region chap­ He is the founder of Kurt Bluemel, Inc., ters of the American Hemerocallis Society. a landscape design firm and perennial nurs­ He has published many articles on day­ ery based in Baldwin, Maryland, and has lilies, Siberian irises, and Japanese irises as Frances Jones Poetker Award more than 45 years' experience in land­ well as two books: Siberian Irises and The This award honors a person who has made scape design and horticulture. Born in Japanese Iris. Another book on Siberian significant contributions to the apprecia­ Sudetenland, today a part of the Czech Re­ irises is forthcoming. tion of creative floral designs. This year's public, Bluemel began his career with ap­ McEwen received his bachelor's degree winner, Dutch-born Rene van Rems, has prenticeships in horticulture and landscape from Wesleyan University in 1923 and a certainly done his part-as a floral design­ design in West Germany and Switzerland medical degree from New York University er, workshop instructor, consultant for a before immigrating to the United States in School of Medicine in 1926. He has served number of firms within the industry, owner 1960. He is passionate about the creation as a faculty member and dean at the New of a retail flower business, and creative di­ of the "four-season landscape" and is con­ York University School of Medicine, pres- rector for a silk flower manufacturer. sidered one of the founding fathers of the

AMERICAN HORTICULTURIST 13 "ornamental grass movement." He spe­ and cared for them. From 1987 to 1990 England Wild Flower Society. ci alizes in growing and creating landscapes she was involved in the selection of vari­ Lindsay possesses unique horticultural with ornamental grasses, perennials, ferns, eties for the Burpee catalogs and created skills based on her years as a professional and bamboos. their line of Designed Gardens, personally designer, installer, and maintenance advi­ As a botanical explorer, ever searching designing five of the 18 gardens. sor to many private and public clients. Her for new varieties with ornamental poten­ Bales has been a featured speaker at many abilities to extend a garden's plant palette tial, Bluemel tries to make at least one flower shows including those in Philadel­ and season of interest have encouraged major "plant safari" a year. His expedi­ phia, Seattle, San Francisco, Boston, St. gardeners everywhere to rethink how they tions have allowed him to study the flora Louis, and Atlanta. She serves on several plan and manage gardens. She drew on her and fauna of southern Africa, central Asia, horticultural boards, including the boards many contacts made through AHS travel Siberia, South America, and most countries of the Hofstra Arboretum and the Garden events to communicate these ideas to peo­ of Europe. Conservancy, and she is a distinguished ad­ ple in the United States and around the visor to the Brooklyn Botanic Garden and world. Old Westbury Gardens. She is also senior Lindsay developed an early interest in vice chairman of the board of Graham horticulture through her father's work with Windham, a New York City agency for the Du Pont company in agricultural chem­ abused and neglected children, and a trustee icals. She graduated from Wellesley College of Hofstra University. with a degree in botany and combined her interests in horticulture and art history by identifying plants in paintings for the col­ lege's art department. After working for several years as a land­ scape designer, in 1975 Lindsay started a company to design, install, and maintain gardens. Later she owned and operated an II-acre nursery and formed a consulting service in Rochester, New York.

Horticultural Writing Award The award for excellence in writing goes to Suzanne Frutig Bales, who has long demon­ strated her commitment to horticulture not only as an author, but also as a volunteer, lecturer, and photographer. Bales is the au­ thor of seven books in the Burpee American Meritorious Service Award Gardening Series: Bulbs, Perennials, Annu­ This award is given to a member or friend als, Vegetables, Container Gardening, of the Society to recognize exemplary ser­ Roses, and Vines, as well as Gifts From vice in support of the Society's goals, ser­ Your Garden, which details preserving the vices, and activities. Carolyn Marsh bounty of a summer garden all year long. Lindsay, former president of the American A graduate of Michigan State University Horticultural Society's Board of Directors, and Hunter College, Bales took an early in­ has organized and, with her husband, Bob, terest in horticulture and expanded her led several tours to benefit AHS. She has knowledge through courses at the New also served the U. S. National Arboretum Teaching Award York Botanical Garden and Pratt Institute. Advisory Council, the British Virgin Is­ This award recognizes an individual whose Bales' Long Island gardens have been a lands Botanic Garden, the Perennial Plant ability to share his knowledge of horticul­ source of inspiration for her own writing Association, the Pennsylvania Horticultur­ ture with others has contributed to a better as well as the writings of others during the al Society, the New York Botanical Garden, public understanding of the plant world 16 years that she has designed, planned, the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, and the New and its impact on humanity. Steven Still has

14 MAY 1995 exhibited this quality as both an educator years, Greene has designed more than 400 and a scholar in the field of horticulture. gardens in her native California and else­ A professor in the Department of Horti­ where on the West Coast. Her work has re­ culture and Crop Science at the Ohio State cently gained popularity in the East, University, Still has had many achievements particularly since she designed an indoor as a researcher. His book, Manual of Her­ "Silver Garden" at Longwood Gardens in baceous Ornamental Plants, is used as a Kennett Square, Pennsylvania. teaching text at approximately 100 univer­ sities and junior colleges. He has written two other books, Taylor's Guide to Peren­ nials and Taylor's Guide to Shrubs, as well as numerous journal articles, papers, and § presentations. Still has proven himself an ef- Ii; fective administrator as well, working as ~ acting depattment head for two years. ~ Since 1983 Still has served as the execu­ tive secretary of the Perennial Plant Asso­ cellence of horticulture in the host city for ciation. Fellow members of the association the American Horticultural Society's An­ credit him with most of the hard work in­ nual Meeting. Doe Run, the home of Sir volved in organizing symposia and keeping John Thouron, is actually almost an hour the organization running smoothly. Still is west of Philadelphia, this year's host city. also involved with the Education and But there can be no doubt that his gardens, Scholarship Committee of the Ohio Nurs­ more than 30 years in the making, are an erymen's Association and the Plant Selec­ example of fine horticulture for anyone tion Committee of the Ohio Nursery and who visits them. Landscape Association. Thouron grew up in his mother's native Greene's work shows an effortless fasci­ The most glowing reports, however, are Scotland where he first developed his nat­ nation with natural forms and physical ge­ from his industry peers and students who ural instinct for gardening. After serving in ography, an admiration of Japanese garden find him a concerned advisor as well as World War II as an officer of Great design, and an ability to manipulate or­ scholar. Britain's Black Watch Regiment, he came ganic shapes into unexpected ones. A com­ to live where his father had grown up in mon thread to her work is her ability to Pennsylvania. His love of British plant life take advantage of existing forms, allowing quickly led him to begin work on the the buildings, garden, and adjacent fea­ grounds that would become Doe Run, a tures to appear as one and as if they had place that celebrates the traditional garden been in place for many years. flowers of the British Isles. Today it covers After receiving a bachelor's degree in some 15 acres and constitutes one of the botany from the University of Califor­ finest collections of rare and unusual nia-Los Angeles in 1956, she completed perennials in the United States. post-graduate work in studio arts at the Not only is Thouron a fervent plants­ University of California-Santa Barbara man, he is also a gracious host, extending and in landscape architecture at the Uni­ invitations to tour the grounds to garden versity of Oregon and the University of groups from as far away as California and California-Los Angeles. Greene is the Texas. Thouron has even added a low­ granddaughter of Henry Mather Greene, maintenance display of perennials specifi­ of Greene and Greene Architects, pioneers cally to provide inspiration for those of his of the early Craftsman movement in South­ guests without four full-time gardeners. ern California. Greene's work has been fea­ tured in articles in House & Garden, Local Horticulture Award Landscape Design Award Vogue Decoration, Connoisseur, Horticul­ This award is given to an individual who This year's Landscape Design Award win­ ture, Garden Design, Landscape Architec­ has contributed to the improvement or ex- ner is Isabelle Greene. Over the past 25 ture, Home, and House Beautiful.

AMERICAN HORTICULTURIST 15 Books are chosen for the AHS book The Impressionist Garden options and conditions, then select the program based on perceived reader in­ Derek Fell features that best suit your needs. Con­ terest, unusual subject matter, or sub­ Hardcover. Retoil price: $35. AHS price: $31.50. struction and installation are carefully sta ntive content. The following are Book code: RAN 605 detailed, and a plant glossary is in­ not intended to be critical reviews, but Using the gardefls and paintings of the cluded. 1995. 128 pages. '"a re based on publishers' descriptions. impressionists as inspiration, Fell shows how to reinterpret the impres­ If you'd like to order a book that is Photographing Plants sionist vision in gardens today. Themes not listed here, call Linda Miller, book such as color harmonies, lighJ and and Gardens program director, at (800) 777-7931. shade, and the appeal of woodland Clive Nichols and wildflower meadows are explored Hardcover. Retail price: $34.95. AHS price: $31.45. and illustrated, with practical advice Book code: STE 608 on d@sign, planting, and cultivation. Here is an indispensable guide for all O NEW TITLES 1994. 144 pages. photographers with an interest in gar­ dens and for gardeNers with an interest in phot0graphy-from amateurs in Native Gardens for Dry Great Gardens, search of technical advice to profes­ Climates Great Desigaers siofla,ls wanting to hone their skills. In Sally Wasowski with Andy George Plumptre this book, illustrated with his own O Wasowski "ardcovel. Retail priee: $35. AHS priee: $3 l.S0. breathtakiflg work, Nichols divulges Hardcover. Retail price: $35. AH5 price: $31.50. Book code: SH 606 the secrets behind his success as a gar­ Book code: RAN 601 The essence of good garden aesign is a defl photographer. 1994. 160 pages. Here is a beautiful, practical, illustrat­ certain intangible !'!'lagic. In this fasci­ ed guide for spectacular native plant aating and beautifully illustrated Contained Gardens: Creative gardens that thrive in the Southwest book, Plumptre helps us to understand and Southern California. In the first of how that magic is creat@d. By chartiflg Designs and Projects . the book's two sections, the authors the development of gardefl desjgn from Susan Berry and Steve Bradley discuss garden types. Part two is an il­ the late 19th century to the present, Hordcover~ Retail price: $25. AHS price: $22.50. lustrated plant glossary of selected na­ certain principles emerge as keys to Book eade: GAR 611 (!)tives. 1995. 175 pages. Contain,ed Gardens o.Hers advice on gooa garden deSign. This book will in­ f0rtn and inspire anyone with a love of choosing containers, creating color gardening. 1994. 160 pages. themes, combining plant textures and In A Southern Garden shapes, and handling trellised and Carol Bishop Hipps trailing plants. Advice on planting, Hardcover. Retail priee: $25. AHS price: $22.50. Period Gardens feeding, and pruning is followed by a Book (Ode: MAC 602 Patrick Taylor plant guide. 1995. 160 pages. This book can be read straight Softtover. Retoil price: $24.95. AHS price: $22.45. through for the pleasure of a year-long Book code: fRA 607 amble through Hipps' fragraflt gar­ Period Gardens is not simply about den. While a valuable reference for gardefl restoration, or eveN c0nserva­ southern gaFdeners, it will also be of tion. It is about breathing new life, inte]i"est to gardellers throughout the based on historical fact, into old gar­ countlry. 1994. 228 pages. dens. Taylor has chosefl gardens that convey a sense of the horticultural ex­ _ • _ __ The Wild Lawn Handbook citement and progress of their time. He _ Stevie Daniels includes an excellent chapter on Mon­ Hardcover. Retail price: $20. AHS price: $18 . ticello, the Virginia home of Thomas Book code: MAC 603 Jefferson. 1991. 216 pages. This hafldbook contains hundreds of interesti,ng plant alternatives-both Culpeper's Color Herbal native and non-native-to high-main­ Edited by David Potterton tenance turf grass. Advice Oil evaluat­ SoftGover. Retail prke: $17.95. AHS price: $16. ing your present situation, determining Book code: STE 609 an alternative that will work best, and This beautifutly illustrated book com­ maintaining your new lawn is includ­ bines the charm of the original 17th ed. 1995. 233 pages. ceNtury text with a modern presenta­ tiOfl and up-to-date, practical infor­ Herb Gayden Design mation on almost 400 herbs and The Complete Guide to Bthne Clarke plants commonly used for herbal Flower Arranging Hardcover. Retail price: $25. AHS price: $22.50. remedies. 224 pages. Jane Packer Book code: MAC 604 Hardcover. Retail price: $29.95. AHS price: $26.95. C Useful and decorative, commonplace The Water Garden Book code: HOU 614 yet indispensable, herbs have a place Peter Robinson Jane ~acker outlines the design princ.i­ in every garden. They can SctfVct as Hardwver. Retail prke: $19.95. AHS price: $17.95 . pies that underpin successful arrange­ border perennials, ground CQvers, Book code: STE 615 ments, showing how to choose flowers (!)foundation plants, or bedded annuals. From the Wayside Gardens Collection, ana foliage to maximize color and tex­ Their garden value is as varied as their this superhly illustrated and informa­ ture, and revealing how to group flow­ culinary and medicinal virtues. This tive guide offers a wealth of iflspiration ers to briflg a fresh, natural look to book shows the myriad ways herbs and practi<:: al advice for those who every arrangement. Her inventive and can be used in the landscape. 1995. want to bring the joy of water to their dramati€ use of flowers, foliage, and 144 pages. gardens. Begifl by considering your site other materials has put her at the fore-

MAY 1995 AHS BOOK CATALOG front of contemporary floral design. dated nomenclature and a new fore­ 1995. 192 pages. word, is now available. This unique REFERENCE encyclopedia details the best pruning Container Gardening methods for more than 450 genera of Common Poisonous Plants and Through the Year trees, shrubs, conifers, and woody Malcolm Hillier Mushrooms in North America climbers. Several thousand species are Hardcover. Retail price: $24.95. AHS price: $22.45. Nancy Turner and Adam discussed. 360 pages. Book code: HOU 61 0 Szczawinski This illustrated guide to creative dis­ Softcover. Retail price: $24.95. AHS price: $22.45. Manual of Climbers plays for every season is packed with Book code: TIM 616 Now in paperback, this useful and au­ and Wall Plants ideas, easy-to-achieve designs, expert j. K. Burras, Consultant Editor advice, and practical tips that prove thoritative reference to poisonous plants found in homes, gardens, urban Hardcover. Retail price: $39.95. AHS price: $35.95. container displays can be an exciting Book code: TIM 620 source of garden color indoors or out­ areas, and in the wild throughout o Our gardens contain an ever-increasing doors. 1995. 160 pages. North America is clearly written. In­ tended for parents, hikers, and wild abundance of plants that require accu­ food enthusiasts, it provides full de­ rate identification and understanding The Container Garden scriptions of each plant, including in­ for successful cultivation. This volume, Month-by-Month formation on occurrence, toxicity, and based on the definitive New RHS Dic­ tionary of Gardening, defines and de­ o jackie Bennett treatment. 310 pages. Hardcover. Retoil price: $24.95. AHS price: $22.45. scribes a fascinating group of plants Book code: STE 612 through a unique fusion of what is cur­ This is the first book to present con­ Gardener's Guide to rent and best in botany and what is tainer gardening in a logical seasonal Growing Lilies proven and practical in horticulture. progression through the year. Each of Michael jefferson-Brown and All categories of climbing plants are de­ the 12 chapters covers a different Harris Howland scribed and illustrated. Accounts of month, describing plants in bloom, Hardcover. Retoil price: $29.95. AHS price: $26.95. some 150 genera give the fullest picture providing a checklist of seasonal tasks, Book code: TIM 617 yet of this fascinating aspect of gar­ and suggesting a detailed project, such Much admired for its spectacular dening. 304 pages. as creating a miniature water garden. beauty and enduring mystique, the 1994. 144 pages. lily has a place in every garden. This is the most comprehensive and up-to­ Manual of Grasses date account of the genus available Frederick Darke, Consultant Editor Hardcover. Retail price: $39.95. AHS price: $35.95. The New Terracotta Gardener today, covering every aspect of culti­ jim Keeling vation, including propagation and hy­ Book code: TIM 621 The grass family offers gardeners an Hardcover. Retail price: $29.95. AHS price: $26.95. bridization. Illustrated with fine line Book code: TRA 613 artwork and superbly detailed pho­ extraordinary variety of form and color with which to experiment. Tax­ This revised edition skillfully blends tos. 160 pages. excellent photos of fine pots and plant­ onomic and horticultural literature has ings by a team of leading gardeners. It so far failed to keep pace with the is much more than a container garden­ The Pruning of Trees, Shrubs rapid growth of interest in these plants. ing book. The introduction, for exam­ and Conifers In this work, the combined insights of ple, offers a fascinating history of the George E. Brown botanists, growers, and designers help flowerpot-a personal statement from Hardcover. Retail price: $29.95. AHS price : $26.95. to illustrate why 140 genera of grasses a potter passionate about his craft. Book code: TIM 618 and grasslike plants have gained such 1995.176 pages. A new edition of this classic, with up- popularity. 218 pages.

AHS HORTICULTURAL BOOK SERVICE ORDER FORM Book Code Quantity Book TIlle Price Each Tolal o Check enclosed Amount: $ _____

Q Charge to: o Visa 0 MasterCard 'Exp. Date: __

Virginia residents, odd 41f2% sales tax Account#: ______~~~_ Postage & Handling (see chart Ibelow) Signature: ~ ___~_~~ __ Total Ship to: Order Instructions Postage &Handling Name: ___~ ____~_~ Mail completed order form to: AHS Horticultu(al Book Service, $ 1.00 - S 20.00 odd $2.75 $ 20.01-$ 40.00 odd $3.75 Address: __------7931 East Boulevard Drive, Alexandrio, VA 22308·1300. S 40.01- S 60.00 odd $4.75 S 60.01-$ 80.00 oiId$5.75 City: Or call toll·free (800) 777·7931. $ 80.01-$100.00 oddS6.75 Prices in effect until June 30, 1995. $100.01 . odd $8.00 pel S100 .00 State/Zip: ______- (MoximUin: $24 pel order) After expiration date, orders may be phoned in and will be filled pending availability. Please fO"ignord",,: Ploose oddopplOpnote postoge. Daytime phone: ______allow four to six weeks for delivery. Prices are subiect to change without notice.

MAY 1995 AHS BOOK CATALOG AHS BULLETIN BOARD

r------, the Palm Beach flower show. A GOLDEN OPPORTUNITY! Jim Corfield, president of S&G Seeds, BOARD OF DIRECTORS PROXY Inc., will bring the perspective of the seed The 50th Annual Meeting of the industry to AHS, having spent the last 27 Notice of Election in conjunction American Horticultural Society is years in sales, marketing, and administra­ with the 50th Annual Meeting of only a month away. We would love tion for the Ball Seed Company and the American Horticultural Society. to have you join us June 22 to 24 in Vaughn's Seed Company. Philadelphia, one of America's pre­ Corfield received his bachelor's and I will not be able to attend the An­ mier gardening regions. Scheduled master's degrees from Michigan State Uni­ nual Meeting of the American Hor­ and optional tours will take us to versity. He has served on the boards of the ticultural Society on June 22,1995. outstanding private and public gar­ Professional Plant Growers Association, Please assign my proxy to AHS dens, and some ofthe nation's most the Ohio Florists Association, and the Chairman Sarah S. Boasberg or to: knowledgeable horticulturists will Ohio Floriculture Foundation. In addition, share their ideas. See your March Corfield has written chapters on plant News Edition for details and a reg­ containers in Tips on Growing Bedding Name Plants, Bedding Plants III, and Bedding istration form, or call us at (800) to cast my ballot in the annual elec­ Plants IV. 777-7931. tion of the Society's Board of Di­ William R. Marken joined the staff of rectors and to cast my ballot in Sunset magazine as just another member other matters that may be brought of its garden department more than 30 before the Annual Meeting with the years ago. Today, he is the publication's BOARD NOMINEES same effect as though I were per­ vice president and editor, voicing a new sonally present. Nominated to join the American Horti­ garden ethic for West Coast gardeners. cultural Society'S Board of Directors at the Educated at Occidental College in Los Vote for four: Angeles and the University of Califor­ June Annual Meeting are: o Sherman Adler Sherman Adler, a native of Asheville, nia-Berkeley, Marken became the maga­ o Jim Corfield North Carolina, and a graduate of the zine's Southern California garden editor in o William R. Marken University of North Carolina at Chapel 1967. He became executive director in o William A. Pusey Hill. Adler has worked in marketing for 1982 and assumed his current title in 1984. the NBC and CBS television networks in William A. Pusey is a partner in the busi­ o New York City and for financier John D. ness practice group of the Hunton & Write-in Candidate MacArthur of south Florida. However, he Williams law firm's Washington, D.C., of­ says he has always be~n an avid gardener. fice . His practice focuses on acquisitions o Write-in Candidate With resource books to guide him, he pur­ and mergers, securities law, natural re­ sued this interest in a Manhattan rooftop sources, and international transactions. garden, a weekend "country house" in He has been serving on the AHS Board for Garrison, New York, and at his home in the past year in an unexpired term. Name East Hampton, Long Island. He received his undergraduate degree Adler now resides in Hobe ,------, I from Princeton University, where Address Sound, Florida, where his current he was Phi Beta Kappa, and his position of executive vice presi­ law degree from the University of dent of the board of the Horti­ Virginia. From 1963 to 1964, he City/State/Zip culture Society of South Florida served as a deputy district attor- allows him to utilize his interest I ney in Alameda County, Califor- Signature Date in gardening as well as his exper­ nia. Pusey writes and lectures tise in marketing. He was a founding extensively on topics relating to the coal , member of the society and its offshoot, the industry. Ht;; is vice chairman of the Amer­ Cut out proxy and return by June 1 , Palm Beach Tropical Flower Show. Adler ican Bar Association's Coal Committee to: Sarah S. Boasberg, AHS, 7931 , says he is currently trying to reestablish his and was awarded the 1993 Distinguished East Boulevard Drive, Alexandria, , neglected garden on Jupiter Island, which Lawyer Award by the National Coal VA 22308-1300. , L ______~, apparently suffered during the planning of Lawyers Conference.

18 MAY 1995 MAKE PLANS Now To ATTEND... The American Horticultural Society's 3rd Annual National Youth Gardening Symposium "Gardens for Youth: Nourishing Mind, Body, and Heart" June 27-30, 1995 • Pasadena, California

on't miss this exciting opportunity to learn The California Arboretum Foundation for THE D innovative ways to introduce children and ARBORETUM of Los Angeles County and will be youth to educational plant and gardening programs co-sponsored by over 25 leading national and at school, community, and public garden sites. California-based horticultural organizations This event is being planned in conjunction with including Descanso Gardens and The Huntington. L..-"";""_...... :;IL...---I

KEYNOTE SPEAKERS George Ball, Jr., President and CEO "Burpee Goes to School" W. Atlee Burpee & Co. Warminster, PA Brian Holley, Executive Director "A Reality Check - Gardening With Children Cleveland Botanical Garden Isn't Just Gardening With Children" Cleveland,OH Bill Lucas, Director "Grounds for Change: The British Example" Learning Through Landscapes London, England Dr. Gary Nabhan, MacArthur Fellow and Science Advisor "Planting the Seeds of Ecological Literacy: Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum Children, Gardens, and Biodiversity" Tucson,AZ Catherine Snead, Director "Creating Community Gardens For Youth" The Garden Project San Francisco, CA Jane Taylor, Curator "The Dirt on Grass Roots Fund-Raising 4-H Children's Garden Plans for Your Garden" Adjunct Faculty Michigan State University Director ofAnnual Gift Programs Michigan 4-H Program, East Lansing, MI ...... For Full Registration r------, The event will also feature: Please send me full registration Information, PLEASE CALL • Over 40 indoor and outdoor workshops information on the 1995 Symposium: • Educational and commercial exhibits (800)-777-7931 Name ______• Social events including special tours OR FAX (703) 765-6032 and dinner at Descanso Gardens and Address ______The Huntington • Field trips to outstanding L.A. and San OR WRITE IQ I City ______Diego area school, community, and AHS '95 Symposium " 7931 East Blvd. Drive State Zip ______botanical gardens L ______~ Alexandria, VA 22308-1300 ~

AMERICAN HORTICULTURI ST 19 REGIONAL HAPPENINGS

Mid-Atlantic Northeast Garden. Conference. Mount Holyoke Col­ • May 9-10. Structure and Ornament • Apr. 1-May 26. Acres of Spring. Dis­ lege Botanic Garden, South Hadley, Mass­ in Garden Design. Fourth Annual Gillette play. Longwood Gardens, Kennett Square, achusetts. Information: (413) 538-2653. Forum. Sponsored by The Lewis Ginter Pennsylvania. Information: (610) 388- • June 24. City Gardens-Country Botanical Foundation. Richmond, Vir­ 1000 or (800) 737-5500. Flowers. Annual tour of 10 private gar­ ginia. Information: (804) 262-9887. • Apr. 29. Wave Hill's 30th Birthday dens in Newport's Historic Hill National • May 13. 67th Annual Georgetown Celebration. Public party. Wave Hill, Register District, Newport, Rhode Island. Garden Tour. Tour of more than 12 private Bronx, New York. Information: (718) Information: (401) 846-7495 or (800) gardens benefiting the Georgetown Chil­ 549-3200. 325-6030. dren's House. Washington, D.C. Informa­ • May 2-26. 25th Annual Decorator's tion: (202) 333-4953 or (202) 686-3155. Show House. Tour of house and grounds. • May 13-14. Sixth Annual Garden James Michael Curley Mansion, Boston, ANOTHER FREE ADMISSION! Fair. Blandy Experimental Farm, The State Massachusetts. Information: (617) 695- Arboretum, Boyce, Virginia. Information: 8000. is month members of the (703) 837-1758. • May 7. Wildflowers That Are Wmning American Horticultural Soci­ Candidates for the Garden. Slide lecture. Tety have yet another chance North Central The New England Wild Flower Society, to take advantage of a new member • Apr. 1S-May 14. Spring Floral Festi­ Garden in the Woods, Framingham, Mass­ benefit-free admission to garden val: Hearts and Flowers. Cincinnati Zoo achusetts. Information: (508) 877-7630. extravaganzas around the country. and Botanical Garden, Cincinnati, Ohio. • May 13-14. Annual Wildflower Plant The former Miami/Fort Lau­ Information: (513) 281-470l. and Seed Sale. Brandywine Conservancy. derdale Show has expanded this • May 1. Fruit Ripening Seminar. Brandywine River Museum, Chadds Ford, year to become the Miami Interna­ American Society for Horticultural Sci­ Pennsylvania. Information: (610) 388- tional Home and Garden Show. ences. Chicago, Illinois. Information: 2700. Scheduled for the Miami Beach (703) 836-4606. • May 19-21. Northeast Pennsylvania Convention Center May 27 to June • May S-7. 6th Annual Orchard-in­ Flower Show. Montage Mountain Ski 4, it is billing itself as the nation's Bloom Garden Show. Holliday Park, Indi­ Area, Scranton, Pennsylvania. Informa­ largest home show. For the first anapolis, Indiana. Information: (317) tion: (717) 969-7669. time, it will extend outside the con­ 290-ROSE. • May 20. Exciting New Woody Plants. vention center in a clear span struc­ • May 11-13. International Lilac Soci­ Lecture by J. c. Raulston. Tower Hill ture spotlighting an International ety Annual Conference and Plant Auction. Botanic Garden, Boylston, Massachusetts. Garden Pavilion. This area will fea­ Bickelhaupt Arboretum, Clinton, Iowa. Information: (508) 869-611l. ture theme gardens and floral dis­ Information: (319) 242-477l. • May 20-21. Rock Garden Weekend. plays developed by landscape • May 12. Open House at the Herb So­ New York Botanical Garden, Bronx, New architects, garden designers, and ciety of America's National Headquarters. York. Information: (718) 817-8700. nurseries; exhibits showcasing the In celebration of National Herb Week. • June 10-12. Secret Gardens. Tour of activities of botanical gardens, plant Vineyard House, Kirtland, Ohio. Infor­ 14 private gardens in the Point Section of societies, and horticultural organi­ mation: (216) 256-0514. Newport, Rhode Island. Information: zations; a large atrium displaying • May 21-23. Trees, People, rr.;;;==:-:::::::~ (40 1) 847-0514. interior plantscapes; and, of course, and the Law. National Arbor Day • June 11. 39th Annual Long a marketplace of gardening prod­ Foundation Conference. Arbor Island Rose Society Rose Show. ucts and accessories. Day Farm's Lied Conference Cen­ Planting Fields Arboretum, Oys­ For more information about the ter, Nebraska City, Nebraska. In­ ter Bay, New York. Information: Miami International Home and formation: (402) 474-5655. (516) 922-9200. Garden Show, contact Southex Ex­ • June 3-4. Iris Society Iris • June 20-21. Tree Shelter hibitions' U.S. headquarters in Coral Show. Olbrich Botanical Gardens, Madison, Conference. The USDA Forest Service and Gables, Florida, at (305) 666-5944. Wisconsin. Information: (608) 246-4550. the Center for Urban Forestry at the Mor­ Eighteen garden shows held ear­ • June 17-25. 10th Annual Rose Festi­ ris Arboretum. Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. lier this year around the country val. Boerner Botanical Gardens, Milwau­ Information: (215) 247-5777 ext. 149 or gave AHS members free or dis­ kee, Wisconsin. Information: (414) ext. 132. counted admission. 529-1870. • June 23-25. In Praise of the American

20 MAY 1995 Northwest + June 10. Herbs, Birds, and Butterflies: + May 12-13. Annual Gift and Garden + May 20-June 7. Azaleas as Bonsai. The Kentucky Herb Festival. Kentucky Sale. The Junior League of Olympia. Exhibit. Pacific Rim Bonsai Collection. Herb Growers and Marketers Association. Olympia, Washington. Information: (360) Weyerhaeuser's corporate campus, Feder­ Carter House and Pavilion, Frankfort, 357-6024. al Way, Washington. Information: (206) Kentucky. Information: KHGMA, P.O. + May 13-14. Geranium Show. Spon­ 924-3153. Box 123, Washington, KY 41096. sored by the International Geranium Soci­ + June 2-4. The 1995 Van Dusen Gar­ + Sept. 27-28. The Southern Garden: A ety, Los Angeles Chapter. Van de Kamp den Show. Van Dusen Botanical Garden, Retrospective. Botanical Symposium to Hall, Descanso Gardens, La Canada Vancouver, British Columbia. Informa­ benefit Wing Haven Garden and Bird Flintridge, California. Information: (818) tion: (604) 257-8670. Sanctuary and Charlotte Nature Museum. 952-4401. + July 23-26. The Fourth North Amer­ Charlotte, North Carolina. Information: + May 21. Plant a Rainbow in Your ican Agroforestry Conference. Red Lion (704) 366-4072. Garden: 21st Annual Benefit Plant Sale. Inn-Riverside, Boise, Idaho. Information: The Huntington Botanical Gardens, San (208) 885-7600. Southwest Marino, California. Information: (818) + June 10-11. Council of Albuquerque 405-2141. South Central Garden Clubs Flower Show. Albuquerque + June 30-July 1. Tropical Forest Exhib­ + May 2-3. Florescense: Art in Bloom. Garden Center, Albuquerque, New Mexi­ it Opening. The Arboretum of Los Angeles Biannual flower and horticulture show. co. Information: (505) 296-6020. County, Arcadia, California. Information: The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, (818) 821-3222. Texas. Information: (713) 639-7518. West Coast + Oct. 15 -1 9. Land Trust Alliance Rally + May 26-June 4. Garden Glory Days. + Apr. 16-May 14. Pasadena Showcase '95. Land conservation conference. Regis­ Tours, herbal teas, and herbal demonstra­ House of Design. House and garden tour. tration beginning in May. Asilomar Con­ tions. Heritage Herb Gardens, The Ozark Pasadena, California. Information: (818) ference Center, Monterey Peninsula, Folk Center, Mountain View, Arkansas. 792-4661. California. Information: (202) 638-4725. Information: (501) 269-3851. + June 17-18. Greater North Texas Or­ chid Society Exhibit. The Dallas Arbore­ SCOTT ARBORETUM PLANT SALE tum, Dallas, Texas. Information: (214) 327-8263. he Scott Arboretum is offering an advance order catalog for their semi-an­ nual plant sale September 15-16. Rock gardening is the highlighted form of Southeast Thorticulture this year, featuring select plants from the Delaware Valley Rock + Apr. 28-June 4. Epcot '95 Interna­ Garden Society. To receive a catalog, write to: The Scott Arboretum, 500 College tional Flower and Garden Show. Presented Avenu€, Swarthmore, PA 19081, or call (610) 328-8025. All orders must be received by Better Homes and Gardens. Walt Dis­ with full payment by May 15, and plants must be picked up from the arboretum. ney World Epcot '95, Lake Buena Vista, Florida. Information: (407) 824-4321. SOUTH CAROLINA ZOO PARK EXPANDS + May 6.1995 Spring Plant Sale: Cele­ brate Spring. Lecture and book signing he residents of Riverbanks Zoological Park in Columbia, South Carolina, with Jim Wilson. Daniel Stowe Botanical will have one more thing to crow, growl, snort, and squawk about when Garden, Belmont, North Carolina. Infor­ Tthe newest addition to the park, a seven-acre botanical garden, opens in mation: (704) 825-4490. June. The new garden has been under construction since 1987. Located on the + May 7. Spring Garden Tour. Mobile west bank of the Saluda River across from Riverbanks Zoo, the gard€n site has Botanical Gardens, Mobile, Alabama. In­ significant historical value as the location of South Carolina's first textile mill and formation: (334) 342-0555. as the launching point of Sherman's march on Columbia during the Civil War. + May 11. Garden Symposium. Featur­ As a natural extension of the zoo site, the garden features three distinct topo­ ing Penelope Hobhouse and tours of 10 graphic land masses: the flood plain valley, the valley slopes, and the uplands. In private gardens. Benefiting Capital Area addition to giving visitors scenic river views and valley overlooks, these areas will Preservation. The Women's Club, Raleigh, provide opportunities for botanical displays and educational programs. North Carolina. Information: (919) 834- Much of the land in the flood plain and valley areas will be left nearly un­ 4844. touched. A woodland trail will allow visitors to experience the sights and sounds + May 13. Spring "Behind-the-Scenes" of lush hardwood forest reminiscent of those found on mountainsides farther Tour. Selby Gardens, Sarasota, Florida. In­ northwest in South Carolina. The 12-acre upland tract will b€ home to a visitors formation: (813) 366-5731. center, a formal walled garden, and an amphitheater. + May 13-14. Gardens for Connois­ The park opened as Riverbanks Zoo and Garden in April 1974. More than seurs Tour. Tour of eight private gardens 2,000 animals are housed in natural habitat exhibits that use barriers such as in the Atlanta metro area sponsored by the moats, water, and light to create an environment free of bars and cages for ani­ Atlanta Botanical Garden. Atlanta, Geor­ mals. Horticulture has been important at Riverbanks from the start. Gardens gia. Information: (404) 876-7472. throughout the zoo grounds help visitors learn about various indigenous and ex­ + May 18. Contrasts and Textures in otic plants and their roles in the environment. Other horticultural features include the Garden. Lecture by Ann Armstrong. the Woodlands Walk, the Lily Pond Garden, and a Backyard Garden that high­ Center for Documentary Studies, Duke lights environmentally sound gardening techniques. Gardens, Duke University, Durham, North For more information about Riverbanks, call (803) 779-8730 or (803) 779-8717. Carolina. Information: (919) 684-3698.

AMERICAN HORTICULTURIST 21 CLASSIFIEDS

Classified Ad Rates: All classified advertising TULIP COLORBLENDS-First-quality bulbs at must be prepaid. $1.25 per word; minimum the best prices. Free catalog. SCHIPPER AND $100 per insertion. Copy and prepayment COMPANY, Box 7584a, Greenwich, CT must be received by the 20th day of the month 06836. (800) 877-8637. "Our Roots are Bulbs." three months prior to publication date. Send LET'S GROW TOGETHER orders to: AHS Advertising Department, 2300 CACTI AND SUCCULENTS South Ninth Street, Suite 501, Arlington, VA RARE AND EXOTIC PLANTS from around 22204-2320, or call (703) 892-0733. the world. Catalog $2, refundable. ABBEY Share the joy of gardening with GARDEN CACTUS, P.O. Box 2249, La Habra, others by giving memberships in ALUMINUM EDGING CA 90632-2249. (805) 684-5112. the American Horticultural SOciety. Tired of plastic edging? Try ProLine heavy-gauge aluminum landscape edging. Flexible, perma­ CARNIVOROUS PLANTS nent and easy to install. FREE CATALOG. Pro­ CARNIVOROUS (Insectivorous) PLANTS, Your family and friends will enjoy Line, 13505 Barry Street, Holland, MI 49424. seeds, supplies, and books. Color brochure free. the same unique benefits of AHS 1-800-356-9660. PETER PAULS NURSERIES, Canandaigua, NY 14424. membership that you do: THE AVANT GARDENER .. American Horticulturist magazine FOR THE GARDENER WHO WANTS MORE GARDEN SUPPLIES FROM GARDENING! Subscribe to THE EXTEND YOUR GROWING SEASON in­ and News Edition AVANT GARDENER, the liveliest, most useful doors and out with products geared toward bet­ of all gardening publications. Every month this ter growing and season extension. Over 400 .. Free admission to flower shows unique news service brings you the newest, most gardening and greenhouse supplies! FREE CAT­ and other horticultural events practical information on new plants, products, ALOG. Season Extenders, Dept. AH5-5, 971 techniques, with sources, feature articles, special Nichols Avenue, P.O. Box 312, Stratford, CT nationwide issues. 27th year. Awarded Garden Club of 06497. .. Toll-free information service for America and Massachusetts Horticultural Soci­ ety medals. Curious? Sample copy $1. Serious? gardening questions $12 full year (reg. $18). THE AVANT GAR­ GARDEN TOURS .. Seed Exchange Program DENER, Box 489M, New York, NY 10028 . DISCOVER THE GARDENS OF WALES. Ex­ pert local guide. Details: Celtic Garden Tours, 2 .. Educational programs that bring AZALEAS AND RHODODENDRONS Prioress Mill Cottages, Usk, Gwent, NP5 1PU, gardeners together with leaders in Wales, UNITED KINGDOM. TEL: 011-44291- SELECT! DON'T SETTLE! Growing over 673311. the field 1,800 varieties of northern-acclimated Azaleas and Rhododendrons. Catalog and Color Cue .. Horticultural employment service Card subscription: $3 . CARLSON'S GAR­ REEVE GARDEN HOLIDAYS, INC. Exclu­ DENS, Box 305-AHC595, South Salem, NY sively booking garden tours worldwide. 35+ .. Discounts on gardening books 10590. (914) 763-5958 . tours. Five excellent tour operators including .. Workshops and other programs Britain's finest. For information: BOXWOOD TOURS, P.O. Box 527, Hanover, NH 03755. devoted to environmental and BOOKS (603) 643-5002. FAX (603) 643-5222. conservation topics HORTICA-Color Cyclopedia of Garden Flora, with Hardiness Zones, also INDOOR PLANTS, .. Free admission to participating 8,100 color photos, by Dr. A. B. Graf, $238. GROUND COVERS botanical gardens and arboreta TROPICA 4, 7,000 color photos of plants and NEW ENGLAND-GROWN HEATHER trees for warm environments, $165. EXOTIC PLANTS. Discover this unique family of hardy throughout the U.s. HOUSE PLANTS, 1,200 photos, 150 in color, evergreens! Heathers have fascinating foliage .. And much more! with keys to care, $8.95. Circulars gladly sent . colors, blooming times and flowers. Quality Shipping additional. ROEHRS CO., Box 125, plants available year round, shipped UPS. Send East Rutherford, NJ 07073. (201) 939-0090. $2 for our color catalog to: ROCK SPRAY FAX (201) 939-0091. NURSERY, Attn: AH, P.O. Box 693, Truro, MA Plus, gift memberships are only $39! 02666. (508) 349-6769. It's easy to give an AHS membership­ BULBS DUTCH BULBS for fall planting, 12cm Tulips, HERBS simply call our Membership Department DN1 Daffodils, Hyacinths and miscellaneous. 200 different herbs including bay, lemon verbe­ toll-free at (800) 777-7931. Catalog Free. Paula Parker DBA, Mary Matti­ na, dittany; 200 geraniums: scented, miniature, son Van Schaik, IMPORTED DUTCH BULBS, etc.; 100 ivies; 250 house plants. List $1. P.O. Box 32AH, Cavendish, VT 05142. (802) MERRY GARDENS, P.O. Box 595, Camden, 226-7653. ME 04843.

22 MAY 1995 ------~--- HOSTAS JOY CREEK NURSERY perennials and native ur catalog tells you how to grow plants, not just plants. Cata log $2, refunda ble. JOY CREEK Choice Selection-Catalog $2. SAVORY'S GAR­ Ohow to buy them . Complete descriptions and N URSERY, Bin 2, 20300 N .W. Watson Rd ., DENS, INC., Hosta Specialists, 5300 Whiting advice on over 1000 va ri eties of perennials, Sca ppoose, OR 97056. Avenue, Edina, MN 55439. (612) 941-8755. ornamental grasses, prairie wildflowers and vines. Send $1.00.

HOUSE PLANTS SEEDS 4838 Douglas Ave . Racin e, WI 53402-2498 ORCHIDS, GESNERIADS, BEGONIAS , CAC­ SEED SAVERS, HERB GROWERS , CRAFT­ T I AND SUCCULENTS. Visitors welc ome. ERS. Imprinted seed packets, information, glas­ 1994-1995 catalog, $2. LAURAY OF SALIS ­ sine envelopes, 4-mi l. zip-poly bags. Sample and BURY, 432 Undermountain Rd., Sali sbury, CT list, SASE. v.L. PRICE H ORTICULTURAL, 506 06068. (203) 435-2263. Grove Avenue, Catawissa, PA 17820-1000.

IRRIGATION MOVING? TROPICALS DRIP IRRIGATION- Complete selection from TROPICAL SEEDS AND BULBS-Thousands 20 manufacturers, highest quality, low prices, of types including chocolate, cashew, cinnamon, DON'T FORGET YOUR technical support. POND AND TANK LINERS. tea, coffee, banana, heliconi a, ginge rs, annonas, AMERICAN HORTICULTURIST! Free Catalog. DRIPWORKS: 1-800-522-3747. chicle, plus palms and much more for your trop­ ica l greenhouse or indoor sunroom. Send $3 for LABELS catalog. THE BANANA TREE, 715 N . Hamp­ Send us an old address label and your ton St., Easton, PA 18042. CUSTOM ENGRAVED PLANT SIGNS/ new address, and we'll make sure you MARKERS- Arboretum-style fo r serious gar­ don't miss a single issue. deners and plant collectors. Free brochure. Gar­ den Graphics-AH, 17 Woodfield Road, Pomona, WATER LILIES Send address and name changes to : NY 10970. BR ING TRANQUIL WATER LILIES, darting goldfish and sparkling water into yo ur garden. America n Horticultural Society For less than the price of a patio or deck you can PLANTS (UNUSUAL) be enj oying a delightful wa ter gard en this season. Address Change Department OVER 2,000 KINDS of choice and afford able Ca ll the pros at LILYPONS WATER GARDENS 7931 East Boulevard Drive plants. Outstanding ornamentals, American na­ today to get your copy of their inform ative, 100- tives, perennials, rare coni fers, pre-bonsa i, page color catalog, $5, deductible with your first Alexandria, VA 22308-1300 wildlife plants, much more. Descriptive catalog, order. 1-8 00-723-7667, operator 1500. Or write $3. FORESTFARM, 990 Tetherow Rd. , Wil­ to P.O. Box 10, Dept. 1500, Buckeystown, MD Fax: (703) 765-6032 liams, OR 97544-9599. 21 717-0010.

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AMERI CAN HORTICULTURIST 23 COMPOSTING GOES HIGH-TECH is not a cost-effective or environmentally sound option. So Brinton and his team devised a recipe that includes mixing con­ Prince Charles and the Pentagon are finally figuring out what taminated soil with carbon and nitrogen materials in exacting gardeners have known for years: Composting is good for the ratios. To determine the proper mixture of materials, they use environment. That's why they've turned to Will Brinton, pres­ one proprietary algorithm, which has proven remarkably suc­ ident of Woods End Research Laboratory in Mount Vernon, cessful in developing hundreds of recipes. Maine, for a novel approach to dealing with large-scale haz­ Through lectures and the success of Woods End, Brinton has ardous waste. earned an international reputation. He has served as a com­ In a nutshell, "we formulate compost mixes tailored to the posting advisor to the European Economic Community and to hazardous waste that needs to be broken down," says Brinton, Great Britain's Prince Charles, whose personal interest in com­ who founded Woods End 20 years ago after studying organic posting extends to using organic methods to recycle wastes on farming in Europe. The idea is to create enough heat and mi­ his estate farm. crobial activity to biodegrade waste quickly and with little odor. Such a seemingly straightforward approach works with sur­ For more information, contact Woods End Research Labora­ prisingly diverse and stubborn industrial byproducts. "We're tory, Old Rome Road, Route #2, Box 1850, Mount Vernon, working with anything from plastic explosives to diesel fuels and ME 04352, (20 7) 293-2457. pesticides," says Jonathan Collinson, senior project director. Woods End seeks to convert residues into useful products, PLANT A ROW FOR THE HUNGRY or "quality;' compost. Though a lot of compost is being pro­ duced worldwide, Brinton points out, there is little regard for The Garden Writers Association of America (GWAA) is launch­ its technical merit and potential effect on plant growth. Woods ing a campaign to encourage vegetable gardeners to plant an End researchers have used highly sophisticated evaluation tech­ extra row this season to help less fortunate members of their niques to discover, among other things, that some composted community. GWANs goal is to eventually double-even triple­ material applied to agricultural crop land suppresses plant dis­ the amount of fresh food made available to the hungry through ease. They also continually devise and test methods of ensur­ donations to food banks, soup kitchens, and homeless shelters. ing that pathogens don't survive the composting process. Community advocates estimate that 30 million Americans are Brinton and his staff help set up large-scale projects at their in danger of going hungry, and fresh produce is often expensive. customers' locations. Their clients range from farmers to mu­ The extra fruit from a gardener'S apple trees can go far. nicipalities, environmental consultants, state agencies, and H garden space is limited, GWAA leaders suggest increasing commercial solid waste managers throughout North America. productivity by planting more closely and by intercropping. Their waste products include animal carcasses, diseased crops, They also point out that food kitchens will especially appreci­ fishing industry scraps, paper industry sludges, and textile ate produce that travels and keeps well, such as broccoli, cab­ fibers, not to mention food scraps and yard debris. bage, carrots, green beans, squash, onions, and beets. Many clients, such as Walt Disney World, want to convert A gardener'S contribution can be as easy as planting an extra waste for an alternative to chemical fertilizers, or they simply window box of favorite herbs, acwrding to the GWAA. Fresh want to avoid high fees for landfill disposal or not complying herbs contain valuable minerals and are indispensable for en­ with environmental regulations. In a noteworthy pilot project hancing the flavor of foods. in Oregon, Woods End scientists found a way to dispose of In addition to cleaning produce carefully, gardeners should toxic wastes on military bases by coming up with a recipe for call ahead to make sure that their chosen organization can ac­ breaking down TNT. The key ingredients turned out to be buf­ cept fresh food donations. falo manure and waste from a vegetable-processing plant. Another dilemma posed to Woods End researchers involved To find a local food distribution source, contact a religious or­ petroleum-based hydrocarbons such as gasoline. The conven­ ganization in your neighborhood or call Second Harvest at tional approach is to dispose of such waste in a landfill, which (312) 263-2303. '

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