TheThe AmericanAmerican
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TheThe MagazineMagazine ofof thethe AmericanAmerican HorticulturalHorticultural SocietySociety JulyJuly // AugustAugust 20112011
Ice Plants for Summer Sizzle Ornamental Buckwheats Shade-Loving Bugbanes
contents
Volume 90, Number 4 . July / August 2011
FEATURES DEPARTMENTS
5 NOTES FROM RIVER FARM
6 MEMBERS’ FORUM
8 NEWS FROM THE AHS 2011 Great American Gardeners Award recipients at River Farm, André and Claire Viette are honorary co-chairs for 2011 AHS annual gala, River Farm to host 2011 America in Bloom program in October, latest AHS gardening book to be released, the Homestead Resort hosts annual “In the Garden Weekend.”
13 AHS MEMBERS MAKING A DIFFERENCE Phil Huey.
42 GARDEN SOLUTIONS Dealing with drought. page 36 44 HOMEGROWN HARVEST Flavorful fennel. 14 WATER-THRIFTY BUCKWHEATS BY CAROL BORNSTEIN 46 Buckwheats (Eriogonum spp.) are a large and diverse genus of GARDENER’S NOTEBOOK American natives prized for their drought tolerance, wildlife Fleuroselect announces its value, and long season of interest. 2011 Gold Medal plants, citizen scientists take on invasive plants in Texas, page 42 20 GARDENING WITH SELF-SOWERS BY KAREN BUSSOLINI evaluating the carbon Whether they bloom briefly or look good year-round, easily footprint of horticultural removed self-sowing plants play many roles in the garden and practices, best disease-resistant blueberries, can be a boon for the busy gardener. USDA modifies regulations for importing non-native plants, launch of national campaign for gypsy moth awareness, State 26 BUGBANES FOR AMERICAN GARDENS BY RICHARD HAWKE Botanical Garden of Georgia to restore These statuesque, late-season bloomers brighten up shade and floodplain habitat, legacy of Dutch woodland gardens at a time when little else is flowering. bulbsman Jan Ohms. Green Garage®: Selected useful garden tools and products. 32 PLANT WARS AND TURF DEFENSE BY KATHRYN LUND JOHNSON Certain plants use allelopathy, a form of chemical defense, to 52 BOOK REVIEWS keep competitors at bay. Attracting Native Pollinators and Fifty Plants that Changed the Course of History. 36 HARDY ICE PLANTS BY PANAYOTI KELAIDIS Special focus: Books about bugs.
With brilliant flowers and a long season of bloom, ground-covering 56 REGIONAL HAPPENINGS succulents in the genus Delosperma are starting to find a home in more American gardens. 60 HARDINESS AND HEAT ZONES AND PRONUNCIATIONS
62 PLANT IN THE SPOTLIGHT ON THE COVER: Designed by Sharon Tingley, this informal garden in northwestern Connecticut overflows with sunny color from a variety of self-sowing plants, including California poppy, lady’s Desert willow (Chilopsis linearis). left: david winger. right: ahs staff mantle, and brown-eyed Susan. Photograph by Karen Bussolini
July / August 2011 3 AMERICAN HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY
Making America a Nation of Gardeners, a Land of Gardens
Board of Directors CHAIR Harry A. Rissetto, Esq. Falls Church, Virginia FIRST VICE CHAIRMAN Don E. Riddle, Jr. Davidsonville, Maryland SECOND VICE CHAIRMAN Mary Pat Matheson Atlanta, Georgia SECRETARY Leslie Ariail Alexandria, Virginia TREASURER J. Landon Reeve, IV Woodbine, Maryland IMMEDIATE PAST CHAIR Susie Usrey Dayton, Oregon EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Henrietta Burke Alexandria, Virginia
Sandra Address Chevy Chase, Maryland ■ Allan M. Armitage Athens, Georgia ■ Amy Bolton Falls Church, Virginia Jane Diamantis McDonald, Tennessee ■ Gay Estes Houston, Texas ■ Carole Hofley Wilson, Wyoming Margaret Kulp Louisville, Kentucky ■ Jack Lowry Phoenix, Maryland ■ Shirley Nicolai Ft. Washington, Maryland
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Tom Underwood PRESIDENT EMERITUS Katy Moss Warner
President’s Council
CHAMPION’S CIRCLE Anonymous ■ Mr. and Mrs. Robert E. Kulp, Jr.
CHAIRMAN’S CIRCLE Anonymous ■ Mr. and Mrs. Kurt Bluemel ■ Mr. and Mrs. George Diamantis ■ Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Farrell ■ Mr. and Mrs. Harry A. Rissetto ■ Mr. and Mrs. Charles H. Smith, Jr. ■ Mr. and Mrs. W. Bruce Usrey
LIBERTY HYDE BAILEY CIRCLE Mrs. Leslie S. Ariail ■ Mr. and Mrs. Robert L. Bogle ■ Ms. Judy Daniel ■ Trish and Cam Gibson ■ Mr. and Mrs. J. Landon Reeve, IV ■ Dr. Erich Veitenheimer and Mr. Andrew Cariaso ■ Ms. Katy Moss Warner ■ Mr. and Mrs. Klaus Zech
HAUPT CIRCLE Mrs. Sandra L. Address ■ Mrs. Lynda A. Bachman ■ Nancy J. Becker, M.D. ■ Ms. Amy Bolton ■ Mr. and Mrs. Taylor Burke, III ■ Mr. James R. Cargill, II ■ Mrs. Elisabeth C. Dudley ■ Mr. and Mrs. Carl Estes ■ Dr. and Mrs. John A. Floyd, Jr. ■ Mr. and Mrs. Don W. Godsey ■ Dr. and Mrs. William O. Hargrove ■ Mrs. Carole S. Hofley ■ Ms. JoAnn Luecke ■ Mrs. Shirley Ann Nicolai ■ Mr. David D. Parrish
COUNCIL MEMBER’S CIRCLE Mr. and Mrs. Robert Baillie ■ Mr. and Mrs. Carter Bales ■ Mrs. Katherine Belk ■ Mrs. George P. Bissell, Jr. ■ Mr. and Mrs. C. William Black ■ Dr. Sherran Blair ■ Mrs. Elspeth G. Bobbs ■ Mr. and Mrs. Michael T. Bradshaw ■ Ms. Petra Burke ■ Mr. and Mrs. Edward N. Dane ■ Mrs. Barbara O. David ■ Mrs. Julie Ernest ■ Ms. Inger Fair ■ Ms. Walter S. Fletcher ■ Ms. Marguerite Peet Foster ■ Ms. Joyce W. Godsey ■ Ms. Amy Goldman ■ Mr. and Mrs. Joel Goldsmith ■ Mrs. Joan Goltzman ■ Ms. LaDawn Griffin ■ Mr. Gerald T. Halpin ■ Mr. and Mrs. Richard W. Hanselman ■ Ms. Catherine M. Hayes ■ Mr. Edwin L. Heminger ■ Ms. Nancy Hockstad ■ Mrs. Elizabeth Hooff ■ Mr. and Mrs. Albert Huddleston ■ Mr. Philip Huey ■ Mrs. Marta J. Lawrence ■ Mrs. Carolyn M. Lindsay ■ Ms. JoAnn Luecke ■ Mr. and Mrs. Bob J. MacLean ■ Ms. Melissa Marshall ■ Mrs. Dorothy Marston ■ Mrs. Carol C. Morrison ■ Mr. and Mrs. James R. Moxley, Jr. ■ Mr. and Mrs. James T. Norman ■ Mr. Michael Panas ■ Mrs. Jeanne Otis Shields ■ Mr. Harold Stahly ■ Mr. Arnold Steiner ■ Dr. and Mrs. Steven M. Still ■ Mr. Howard McK. Tucker and Ms. Megan Evans ■ Mr. and Mrs. Tom Underwood ■ Mr. Joe Viar ■ Ms. Angela M. Vikesland ■ Mr. and Mrs. Robert D. Volk ■ Mr. and Mrs. Dennis White ■ Mr. and Mrs. Harvey C. White ■ Mr. and Mrs. John W.White, Sr. ■ Mr. and Mrs. John Zoldak
HONORARY PRESIDENT’S COUNCIL Ms. Louise Fruehling* ■ Mrs. Enid Haupt* ■ Mrs. John A. Lutz* ■ Mr. and Mrs. Bruce Miller* *In memoriam
Corporate Members
Bonnie Plants ■ The Care of Trees ■ Chapel Valley Landscape Company ■ The Espoma Company Furbish Company ■ Homestead Gardens ■ Kurt Bluemel, Inc. ■ Monrovia ■ Osmocote Photo Credit: Alexander Armster-Wikoff Please contact 1-800-367-0003 or Horticultural Partners Tony Richard at 301-883-8834 America in Bloom Symposium & Awards Program ■ Bellingrath Gardens and Home
py p y ■ The Fresh Air Fund, 633 Third Avenue, 14th Floor, New York, Colonial Williamsburg Foundation Garden Symposium Cox Arboretum MetroPark NY 10017 (212-897-8900) or from the Office of the Secretary Garden Centers of America ■ The Gardeners of America/Men’s Garden Clubs of America of State, State House, Annapolis, MD 21401 (for the cost of copies and postage) or by calling 1-888-874-0013 within Maryland. Great Gardens and Landscaping Symposium ■ The Homestead in the Garden Symposium Registration does not imply endorsement. 2009 The Fresh Air Fund. Inniswood Garden Society ■ Oklahoma Botanical Garden & Arboretum
4 the American Gardener NOTES FROM RIVER FARM CONTACTS FOR C AHS PROGRAMS, MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS & DEPARTMENTS
For general information about your membership, call (800) 777-7931. Send change of address notifications to our membership department at ID YOU GET 7931 East Boulevard Drive, Alexandria, VA a chance to read Kelly Norris’s feature on “Next-Generation 22308. If your magazine is lost or damaged in Gardeners” in the May/June issue of The American Gardener? We regularly the mail, call the number above for a replace- receive feedback from our members about the magazine, but this story in ment. Requests for membership information D and change of address notification can also be particular seemed to stir up an exceptional amount of interest. It’s a thought-pro- e-mailed to [email protected] voking topic that horticultural groups of all kinds are discussing these days. Through THE AMERICAN GARDENER To submit a letter to survey data and interviews with experts, the article leaves little doubt that the next the editor of The American Gardener, write to generation of gardeners will be fueled by renewed environmental awareness and a pas- The American Gardener, 7931 East Boulevard sion for fresh and locally grown food. (If you missed it, you can read the article in the Drive, Alexandria, VA 22308, or send an e-mail to [email protected] digital edition of the issue linked through our website at www.ahs.org.) One personification of this next generation of gardeners that comes to mind for DEVELOPMENT To make a gift to the American Horticultural Society, or for information about us is Sam Levin, a university-bound high school graduate from Massachusetts who a donation you have already made, call co-founded the first student-initiated (800) 777-7931 ext. 127 or send an e-mail and student-run public school garden to [email protected] in the country. From rallying his class- E-NEWSLETTER To sign up for our monthly mates around the project to inspiring e-newsletter, visit www.ahs.org. thousands of his peers to get into gar- INTERNSHIP PROGRAM The AHS offers intern- dening, Sam’s passion is infectious. ships in communications, horticulture, and youth programs. For information, send an At the age of 18, he became the e-mail to [email protected] Information and youngest recipient of the Society’s Jane application forms can also be found in the L. Taylor Award, given in recognition River Farm area of www.ahs.org. of outstanding efforts in children’s and NATIONAL CHILDREN & YOUTH GARDEN youth gardening to inspire and nurture SYMPOSIUM For information about the Soci- ety’s annual National Children & Youth Gar- future horticulturists. We were honored den Symposium, call (800) 777-7931 ext. to have Sam and his mother, Susan 132 or visit the Youth Gardening section of Engel, join us at River Farm this past www.ahs.org. June to accept his award during our RECIPROCAL ADMISSIONS PROGRAM The AHS Great American Gardeners Awards and Reciprocal Admissions Program offers members free admission and other discounts to more than AHS Book Awards Ceremony. 250 botanical gardens and other horticultural The AHS also nurtures an interest destinations throughout North America. A list of in gardening in the next generation Sam Levin, with his mother, Susan Engel, participating gardens can be found in the Mem- bership area of www.ahs.org. For more infor- through our annual National Chil- accepts the Jane L. Taylor Award in June. mation, call (800) 777-7931 ext. 119. dren & Youth Garden Symposium. RIVER FARM The AHS headquarters at River We are proud to be the driving force behind this innovative gathering of teachers, Farm is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays year- designers, and other children’s gardening advocates that have impacted tens of thou- round (except Federal holidays), and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays from April through September. sands of children across the country since its inception in 1993. We hope to see some Admission is free. For information about events, of you at this year’s symposium in Michigan from July 21 to 23. rentals, and directions, visit the River Farm sec- As for this issue of The American Gardener, there is plenty to inspire you in your tion of www.ahs.org. own garden. Sprinkle on some spontaneity with well-behaved self-seeding plants TRAVEL STUDY PROGRAM Visit spectacular pri- that star in “Gardening by Subtraction with Self-Sowers.” Discover colorful and vate and public gardens around the world through the Society’s acclaimed Travel Study tough buckwheats and hardy ice plants that offer something beyond the usual Program. For information about upcoming water-thrifty options. Meet some top-performing bugbanes that can light up your trips, call (800) 627-6621, send an e-mail to beds in fall. And did you know that some plants use chemical warfare to defend [email protected], or visit the Travel Study section of www.ahs.org. their turf? You’ll find a fascinating article about how this works and what effects it can have in your garden. WEBSITE: www.ahs.org The AHS website is a valuable source of information about the Soci- ety’s programs and activities. To access the Happy gardening and have a wonderful summer! members-only section of the website, the user name is garden and the password is ahs2011. Harry Rissetto, Chair, AHS Board of Directors
֢֤֢֣֥֧֪֪֦֢֧֭֮֡֩֫֨֨֠֫֬֫ Tom Underwood, Executive Director֥֥֧֬֬֬
July / August 2011 5 MEMBERSC’ FORUM
EASY-CARE ROSES tions” by Scott Aker. While not a strict or- you know how to garden and plant a seed I enjoyed Patricia Taylor’s article “Rethink- ganic gardener, my petrochemical use is re- you can always eat, always put food on ing the Rose Garden” (May/June 2011). I stricted to rare, sparing uses. I feel I have a the table. Soil isn’t just for walking on, it have always admired roses—as long as fair grasp of fertilizers and soil-related is- can sustain you. Thanks again for all you someone else was growing and maintain- sues that enables me to avoid petrochemi- do to spread this message, and we look ing them. Pests, diseases, and lots of need- cals on lawns and gardens; however, forward to visiting River Farm soon. ed attention were, unfortunately, what in-depth knowledge about plant growth, Paul and Marsha Fosberg came to mind when looking at most spec- the effects of pH, etc. is still lacking. This Natick, Massachusetts imens. The new sustainable and hardy column cannot be too lengthy! ones mentioned in the article offer possi- Bob Hatton CORRECTION bilities, so kudos to the developers and the Amarillo, Texas In the May/June issue, a supplier for the gardens who are evaluating these roses. Rootrainers transplanting system de- Who knows? Perhaps a fragrant blast of SOIL ROCKS scribed in the Green Garage column color may bloom in my courtyard soon. We both have been gardening since we (page 52) was inadvertently left out. Lee Steven G. Maurer were little kids and love it. We feel that Valley Tools (www.leevalley.com) also car- Philadelphia, Pennsylvania the American Horticultural Society is ex- ries this product. tremely important to our country and— when you think about it—to our PLEASE WRITE US! Address letters to Editor, The PRAISE FOR GARDEN SOLUTIONS survival. My dad, who grew up in the American Gardener, 7931 East Boulevard Drive, As an avid, self-taught gardener, I thank Depression, always said that no matter Alexandria, VA 22308. Send e-mails to you for the new column, “Garden Solu- how bad things get with the economy, if [email protected] (note Letter to Editor in subject line). Letters we print may be edited for length and clarity.
#APITAL)DEAS FOR9OUR#OMMUNITY
America in Bloom Symposium & Awards s'ETYEARSOFBESTIDEASFROM COMMUNITIESACROSS!MERICA 2012 “Gardener’s” Calendar ONHOWTOIMPROVEYOURTOWN Thirteen award-winning photographs taken by various TGOA/MGCA members. We encourage all men and s.ETWORKWITHCOMMUNITY women to become a member of TGOA/MGCA and enjoy INNOVATORSANDLEADERS the benefits of a great organization. For more information on the organization or to order /CTOBER 7ASHINGTON $# calendars for $6.95 postpaid, please call or e-mail: WWW!MERICA)N"LOOMORG The Gardeners of America/ Men’s Garden Clubs of America Box 241, Johnston, IA 50121-0241 (515) 278-0295 e-mail: [email protected] www.tgoa-mgca.org
6 the American Gardener THETHE AMERICANAMERICAN HORTICULTURALHORTICULTURAL SOCIETYSOCIETY TRAVELTRAVEL STUDYSTUDY PROGRAMPROGRAM 20112011 TOURSTOURS
Gardens and Innovation: Chicagoland and Rockford August 17–21, 2011 with AHS Host Katy Moss Warner and AHS Tour Escort Maren Seubert ■ Discover the horticultural abundance that the Chicago area offers during this tour of the innovative gardens that have contributed to the greening of Chicago. Among these are the Lurie Gardens in Chicago’s Millennium Park, the world-renowned Chicago Botanic Garden, and Garfield Park Conservatory. We will also visit several stunning private gardens, award-winning gardens in Rockford, Illinois, and the trial gardens at Ball Horticultural Company’s headquarters. ְ֪֣֮֠֯ ְֱ֤֪֪֠֡֨֠֩֬֫֫֨ Castles and Gardens of Bohemia and Moravia September 25–October 6, 2011 ְֲֳִ֢֧֧֧֭֯֠֯ ְֱִ֤֦֧֥֤֭֮֠֡֠ with AHS Host Kurt Bluemel and Tour Escort Harriet Landseer of Specialtours ■ We begin this trip to the Czech Republic in the capital city of Prague, renowned for its castles and cathedrals. From there we will venture to the historic and picturesque regions of Bohemia and Moravia. Experience a wealth of gardens in styles ranging from formal Italianate, Renaissance, and Baroque to Neo-classical and modern—including several 20th-century gardens created by visionary designers.
COMING SOON! 2012 Travel Destinations The AHS’s Travel Study Program will be bound for three exciting destinations in 2012. Start planning now for next year’s trips! Late March/early April—Gardens of San Diego June 26–July 6—Midsummer Gardens and Castles of Sweden October 26–November 5—Andalusian Heritage and Gardens: Seville, Cordoba, and Granada Full travel itineraries will be available later this summer.
For more information about upcoming tours in the AHS Travel Study Program, please contact our travel partner, MacNair Travel: • E-mail: [email protected] • Call: (866) 627-6621 • Visit: www.ahs.org GARDENER Copyright ©2011 bytheAmericanHorticultural Society. ©2011 Copyright material. Backissuesareavailableat$8percopy. stamped envelope.Wecannotguaranteethesafereturn ofunsolicited possible publicationwillbereturnedifaccompanied byaself-addressed, ily thoseoftheSociety.Manuscripts,artwork,andphoto graphs sentfor expressed inthearticlesarethoseofauthorsand arenotnecessar- and onthe list oftheVascularFloraUnitedStates,Canada andGreenland Society A–Z EncyclopediaofGarden Plants, Botanical nomenclatureisbasedon 22308-1300. American Gardener,7931EastBoulevardDrive,Alexandria,VA tional mailingoffices.Postmaster:PleasesendForm3579to tion. PeriodicalspostagepaidatAlexandria,Virginia,andaddi- tion to (703) 768-5700.MembershipintheSocietyincludesasubscrip- Society, 7931EastBoulevardDrive,Alexandria,VA22308-1300, ber/October, November/December)bytheAmericanHorticultural ly (January/February,March/April,May/June,July/August,Septem- The AmericanGardener dues are$50.$10ofannualgoestowardmagazinesubscrip- 8 h American The ADVERTISING & PARTNERSHIPS CONTACT US CORPORATE EDITORIAL The AmericanGardener.Annualduesare$35;international the American Gardener Royal HorticulturalSocietyIndexofGardenPlants CHAIR Printed intheU.S.A. (703) 768-5700 Alexandria, VA22308 7931 EastBoulevardDrive West DesMoines,Iowa Elvin McDonald Kennett Square,Pennsylvania Richard W.Lighty Denver, Colorado Panayoti Kelaidis San Francisco,California John E.Bryan Birmingham, Alabama Steve Bender Ithaca, NewYork Nina L.Bassuk Athens, Georgia Allan M.Armitage Brevard, NorthCarolina Richard E.Bir EDITORIAL ADVISORYBOARD Carole Ottesen CONTRIBUTING WRITER Rita Pelczar CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Helen Thompson EDITORIAL INTERN Viveka Neveln ASSOCIATE EDITOR Mary Yee MANAGING EDITORANDARTDIRECTOR David J.Ellis EDITOR E-MAIL: The AmericanGardener E-MAIL: (ISSN 1087-9978)ispublishedbimonth- [email protected] [email protected] The AmericanHorticultural on A Synonymized Check- . Opinions The André andClaireViette tember 25.The onlineauctionwillinclude exciting tohave aprivate opportunities line auctionopen forbiddingonemonthprior tothegalaandconcluding onSep- ONE OFTHE AT FARM RIVER PARTY GARDEN AN INSPIRED www.ahs.org/awards. complete listofwinners,andtonominateyour own hero for2012,visit horticultural well asfourBookAwards bookspublishedin2010.For foroutstandinghorticultural a 11 otherGreat AmericanGardeners awards were presented throughout theevening, as Hydeerty Bailey Award, plants. moting native woody role inpro-instrumental his culturist, particularly reer asanExtension horti- course ofhislongca- the for hisachievements over cepted thisyear’s award business. or ministration, art, search, leadership, ad- disciplines suchasre- tions through multiple cant lifetimecontribu- who have madesignifi- nication andteachingtoplantbreeding andlandscapedesign. June 9tocelebratetheiroutstandingcontributionshorticulture—from commu- Society’s atthe andstaff bers River Farm Virginia, inAlexandria, on headquarters year’s recipients, togetherwiththeirfamiliesandcolleagues,joinedAHS Board mem- cultural Society annually recognizes achievements. This horticultural extraordinary THROUGH ITS SUPERSTARS AMERICA’S HORTICULTURAL CELEBRATING also achancefortheSociety toshow offRiver Farm’s uniquebeautywhilecelebrating In addition to the Lib- The Society’s tophonor, Hyde theLiberty Bailey Award, forthose isreserved Richard Bir AHS’s main fundraisingevents isitsannualGalaAHS’s heldatRiver Farm. It’s Great AmericanGardeners Awards Program, theAmericanHorti- Nominations willbeaccepteduntilSeptember 30,2011. ac- PROGRAMS • EVENTS • ANNOUNCEMENTS right, presentRichardBirwiththeLibertyHydeBaileyAward. Board Chair Harry Rissetto, Awards Chair Jane Diamantis and AHS gala hostcommittee. growing inspirations,”says of plants,theViettes are theembodimentof truly productionexciting of cultivars new ofmanyvarieties ettes are familiarfaces andvoices inAmericanhorticulture. inVirginia andgardeningclass nursery radioshow, theVi- Known throughout themid-Atlantic region fortheirfirst- on September 24withthetheme,“Growing Inspirations.” co-chairsoftheAHS’sare thehonorary 18thannualGala gardening champions.This year, auction ofone-of-a-kinditems. There alsowill beanon- music, thisfestive, black-tieevening willfeature asilent “With their amazing horticultural knowledge theiramazinghorticultural and “With In additiontoanelegantformaldinnerand live News from the July /August2011 Leslie Ariail,chairofthe André andClaire Viette AHS
ֲֲֳֵֵֶֶֶַַַַֹּ֢֦֪֣֮֡֠֯֨֯֠֬֩֨֨֬֬֯ garden tour with distinguished horticulturists around the coun- try. To view all the offerings, visit www.ahs.org/auction. Remember to Save Your Seeds Proceeds from the Gala and auctions will support the AHS’s Next time you’re deadheading in the garden, remember to outreach and educational programs for gardeners across Amer- save the seeds you’re snipping for the AHS Seed Exchange, ica as well as the stewardship of River Farm. For more infor- which is a great way for AHS members share plants with each mation and to purchase tickets, contact Maren Seubert at (703) other. Seeds received by November 1 will be included in our 768-5700 ext. 132 or [email protected] annual seed catalog available online starting in January. Mem- bers who donate seeds also get first pick from the available AIB SYMPOSIUM AND AWARDS CEREMONY offerings. For more information, visit www.ahs.org/seeds. IN SUPPORT OF urban beautification, the AHS has been a longtime partner of America In Bloom (AIB), a nonprofit or- ganization dedicated to “planting pride in our communities.” pact on events at the White House. AIB will announce eight com- This year, as AIB cele- munities that have achieved excellence in specific categories, such as brates its 10th an- urban forestry, community involvement, and heritage preservation, niversary, the Society as well as reveal the winner of its YouTube video contest. is excited to play a In concert with the Criteria Awards program, attendees will special part in “Capi- have the opportunity to explore the gardens of the Society’s Riv- tal Ideas,” AIB’s sym- er Farm headquarters and get practical ideas they can take back posium and awards to their communities. The gardens will be enhanced for the oc- program taking place casion with colorful floral displays showcasing varieties from four in Washington, D.C. of the country’s premier growers—Ball, Syngenta, Proven Win- from October 6 to 8. ners, and Ecke Ranch. In addition to AHS The next two days will feature educational activities, focusing This year’s America In Bloom symposium President Emeritus on successful community and urban gardens over the last decade will take place in Washington, D.C. Katy Moss Warner and offering some exceptional opportunities for attendees to sharp- and AHS Executive Di- en their skills and increase their community impact. The agenda rector Tom Underwood serving as co-chairs of the event, the AHS includes keynotes by garden television personality Joe Lamp’l on will host the AIB’s Criteria Awards ceremony at River Farm on Oc- sustainable community beautification projects and by noted cus- tober 6. Guest of honor and White House Chief Florist Laura tomer service expert Dennis Snow on how businesses and com-
ְְְֲֳִֵֵֶֶַַַָֺֹֹּ֪֭֬֠֠֨֨֠֨֬ Dowling will speak about the importance of flowers and their im- munities can raise the bar and “unleash excellence” in order to beְְְֲֳִֵֵֶֶַַֹֽ֪֥֪֠֠֠֬֨֠֨֨ ֢֦֣֨ ֤֦֧֤֥֠֨֡
In addition to vital support through membership dues, the American Horticultural Society relies on grants, bequests, and other gifts to support its programs. We would like to thank the following donors for gifts received between April 1 and May 31, 2011.
Anonymous In memory of Max DeSilva and in honor of In honor of the André Bluemel Meadow Mrs. Julie W. Ernest Alexander DeSilva Dr. and Mrs. Steven M. Still Mr. and Mrs. Carl Estes Dr. and Mrs. James W. Smith ExxonMobil Foundation In honor of Arabella Dane Dr. and Mrs. John A. Floyd, Jr. In memory of Ann Randle Hanover Garden Club Ms. LaDawn Griffin Ms. Jennifer Randle Ms. Catherine M. Hayes In honor of James Gagliardi Learn2Grow.com In memory of sister Barbara Wall Bond and Silver Spring Garden Club Ms. JoAnn Luecke mother Louise Vanderburgh Wall Mr. and Mrs. Harry A. Rissetto Ms. Judy Daniel In honor of Charles McDougall Mr. and Mrs. Tom Underwood Ms. Stacey Hudson Mr. and Mrs. John Zoldak In honor of the 60th Wedding Anniversary of Mr. and Mrs. Alb Mr. and Mrs. Edward J. Russell If you would like to support the American Horticultural Society as part of your estate planning, as a tribute to a loved one, or as part of your annual charitable giving plan, please contact [email protected] or call (703) 768-5700 ext. 123.
July / August 2011 9 10 complimentary membershipstoallattendees. complimentary through the AHSwebsite are available wherever booksare soldandmaybeordered sort’s sumptuous accommodations.TheAHS willalsoprovide tours oftheHomestead’s gardens, whileluxuriatinginthe re- this July withtherelease of 21, participants will enjoy21, participants seminars by gardening and experts the Garden Weekend.” For thisyear’s event from August 19to summer getawayforgardenersthe perfect withitsannual“In THE HOMESTEAD RESORT RESORT WEEKEND” AT THEHOMESTEAD THEGARDEN “IN THE AHS’S SUMMER RELEASEDTHIS GUIDE UPDATED AHSPLANT 1117 orvisit symposium. For more informationortoregister call(614)487- gardeningcommunity beautificationandpublic canattendthe communities basedonpopulation.Anyone withaninterest in with communitymayors andproject funders. and avariety ofinformative sessionsincludingpaneldiscussions of speciallyarrangedfieldstudiesinandaround theNational Mall, more successful. The program also features an impressive line-up designed toraiseawarenessaboutthebenefitsgardensprovide. and saucers.Throughavarietyofactivities,thisannualeventis led anactivityforkidstocreateaminibirdbathoutofterracottapots At theSmithsonianGardenFestinWashington,D.C.,May,AHS Garden Fest 2011 AIB willconclude theeventwithan awards ceremony for the American Gardener www.americainbloom.org. acclaimed lineofgarden title bookswillgainanew as well ascultural requirements. tions ofmore than 1,000plantvarieties, referenceand portable includesdescrip- the coloroftheir flowers. Thecompact each section,plantsare alsogrouped by of year they are attheirbest.Within guide organizes plantsbasedonthetime Plants forEvery Season, lishing. Originally publishedin2003as This andotherAHSgardenbooks (www.ahs.org). What Plant When in Hot Springs, Virginia, offers from DKPub- this updated www.thehomestead.com. care, techniques,andvegetable proper gardening. pruning Other speakerswillpresent ontopicssuchassustainable lawn show, willgive apresentation aboutsomeofhisfavorite plants. Nova Sadowski, Editor withAssociate Viveka Neveln. News written by Editorial Interns Helen ThompsonandTerra- The Homestead’seventwillincludetoursofitsspagarden,above. M www.ahs.org River Farm,Alexandria,Virginia. Washington, D.C. AHS TravelStudyProgram.CzechRepublic. East LansingandGrandRapids,Michigan. OCT. 22 OCT. 6–8. SEPT. 25–OCT.6. SEPT. 24. Experts” Symposium. AUG. 19–21. Chicagoland andRockford,Illinois. AUG. 17–21. JULY 21–23. Horticulturist André Viette, hostof“In theGarden” radio To learnmore about this event and to register, visit sponsored orco-sponsored by theAHS.Visit ark your calendarfortheseupcomingevents thatare . Dr. CatheyDay—ACelebrationofGrandparents. America inBloomSymposiumandAwards. AHS AnnualGala. National Children&YouthGardenSymposium. The Homestead’s13thAnnual“IntheGardenwith AHS TravelStudyTrip:GardensandInnovation. or call(703)768-5700formore information. Castles andGardensofBohemiaMoravia. CALENDAR 2011 AHS EVENTSANDPROGRAMS Hot Springs,Virginia. River Farm,Alexandria,Virginia.
ְֱֳֳִִֵֵֵֵֵֵֵֵַַַַַָָָֺֹֹֹֺֹֹֹֹֻּ֤֧֪֭֮֫֬֫֠֩֠֯֠֬֠֠֯֬֠֯֬֬֨֫֠֬֠֬֨־ֲֵֶֹֹ֧֭֬֠ e American Horticultural Society PRESENTS 18th Annual Gala Growing Inspirations 6:00 pm – 10:00 pm Saturday, September 24, 2011 AT RIVER FARM IN ALEXANDRIA, VIRGINIA
American Horticultural Society’s Board of Directors invites you to join us for an evening of ne dining and entertainment in the garden at ONLINE The our 18th Annual Gala, “Growing Inspirations.” is year’s event will celebrate the many inspirations that originate from our gardens. Auction In conjunction with the annual Gala, André and Claire Viette, proprietors of André Viette Nurseries in Virginia’s picturesque the American Horticultural Society Shenandoah Valley, will be our Honorary Co-Chairs for this year’s gala. e horticultural is proud to announce its third annual accomplishments and generous spirit of the Viette family are legendary — please join online auction, featuring a fascinating us as we recognize this dedicated duo for their contribution to American horticulture, array of exclusive experiences and sharing their passion for plants and oering encouragement to gardeners across the special offerings. The AHS online auction is your chance to bid on country. e Viettes’ endeavors include a weekly radio show “In the Garden with André ‘once in a lifetime’ experiences Viette,” gardening books, and special events at their nursery where visitors delight in the that allow you to spend time “One extensive display gardens and collections of perennial plants. on One with Great American Gardeners.” is festive evening under the stars will include an elegant formal dinner and silent auction; attire is black-tie. Advance reservations only; tables for 10 and individual tickets Visit www.bluetreemarketing.com/ahs are available. for more information about the auction. The deadline to bid is September 25, 2011.
All proceeds from the Gala and Online Auction bene t the stewardship of River Farm and the American Horticultural Society’s outreach and educational programs.
For more information about the gala or to purchase tickets, please contact Maren Seubert at 703.768.5700 ext. 132 or email [email protected]
Sponsorship opportunities also available. www.ahs.org Call for Nominations
AMERICAN HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY 2012 GREAT AMERICAN GARDENERS AWARDS ֢֤֧֧֪֦֥֪֦֪֣֤֤֦֭֠֩֬֩֫֡֨֡֠֡֫֫֫ 2011 Professional Award Richard Piacentini Executive Director, Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
Liberty Hyde Bailey Award course of his or her career Given to an individual who have cultivated widespread has made significant lifetime 2012 interest in horticulture. contributions to at least three It’s an Honor… of the following horticultural Catherine H. Sweeney Award fields: teaching, research, AWARDS Recognizes extraordinary communications, plant and dedicated philanthropic Since 1953, the American Horticultural exploration, administration, Meritorious Service Award support of the field of Society’s Great American Gardeners Awards art, business, and leadership. Recognizes a past Board horticulture. Program has recognized individuals and member or friend of the H. Marc Cathey Award American Horticultural Jane L. Taylor Award institutions that have made significant Recognizes outstanding Society for outstanding Given to an individual, contributions to American horticulture. scientific research that service in support of the organization, or program that Nominations are now being accepted for has enriched the field of Society’s goals, mission, has inspired and nurtured 2012. horticulture. and activities. future horticulturists through Nominate your “horticultural hero”— efforts in children’s and Paul Ecke Jr. B. Y. Morrison youth gardening. a memorable professor, a favorite garden Commercial Award Communication Award writer, or the driving force behind an Given to an individual or Recognizes effective and Teaching Award incredible community project. company whose commitment inspirational communica- Given to an individual whose For additional information and a to the highest standards of tion—through print, radio, ability to share his or her nomination form, visit www.ahs.org/awards excellence in the field of television, and/or online horticultural knowledge with commercial horticulture media—that advances public others has contributed to a or call (703) 768-5700 ext. 132. contributes to the betterment interest and participation better public understanding of gardening practices in horticulture. of the plant world and its Nominations must be submitted everywhere. important influence on by September 30, 2011. Frances Jones Poetker Award society. Landscape Design Award Recognizes significant Given to an individual whose contributions to floral design Urban Beautification Award work has demonstrated in publications, on the Given to an individual, and promoted the value platform, and to the public. institution, or company of sound horticultural for significant contributions practices in the field of Professional Award to urban horticulture landscape architecture. Given to a public garden and the beautification of administrator whose American cities. achievements during the
12 the American Gardener ְֱֲֳֵ֦֨֯֨֬֠֫ ְְְְְְֱֱֱֱֱֱֱֱֱֲֲִִֵֵ֢֦֤֤֤֦֣֥֦֧֦֤֤֦֪֪֦֤֭֭֭֭֮֠֠֯֬֯֨֬֠֨֬֨֠֠֯֠֠֠֠֫֩ by Terra-NovaSadowski AHS MEMBERS MAKING ADIFFERENCE: several localpublicandprivate gardens, cellent,” hesays.In additiontovisiting plane ticket. close tohome,however, hedidn’t needa tain level.spring wasso trip this The 2011 AHS memberswhodonateabove a cer- offered eachyear indifferent citiesfor numerous AHSPresident’s Counciltrips, Boston,” heexplains. colors, soIdecidedtoheadtowards would gotoNew England toseethefall “Every year around September thefamily sonal tripHuey hadalready planned. timing happenedtocoincidewithaper- year, the event was held in Boston, and the Parks Recreation and That Department. he wasthe assistant director of the Dallas attended anationalmeetingin1981while ican Horticultural Society (AHS)whenhe Huey firstbecameinvolved withtheAmer- MAN TRAVELING P some things.” into the20sseveral timesanddamaged and thesepastcoupleyears it’s gotten 9,” saysHuey,8 or “butitstillfreezes, with tropical plants.“Hempstead isZone Daffodil Society. tinkers often he And dening magazinesandwiththeAmerican publishing hisresults gar- instatewide fodils andotherspring-flowering bulbs, Huey. says ment,” He enjoys daf- trialing how itreacts andadaptstoitsenviron- growingobservation: aplantandseeing Hempstead, Texas. treescitrus hecultivates inhisgarden in plants, suchastheoleanders,palms,and knows athingortwoaboutgrowing laughs. Alifelonggardener, healso writing alotofthank-you letters,”Huey with 395friends.“Now mybigproject is Dallasthe at Arboretum80th birthday They were at theheightoftheirbloom thing Iremember mostwastheazaleas. George H.W. Bush andBarbara. The “we gottoseethegarden andhomeof and were just beautiful.” “This year’s“This tourinHouston wasex- Since in then,hehasalsoparticipated “I’ve alwaysbeeninterestedplant in alumnus recentlyalumnus his celebrated party. TheTexas A&Mfloriculture HIL HUEYknows how tothrow a and tropical, butit’s hard toduplicatethat plants for someof itsexhibits. environment inTexas,” Huey explains. togrowbeen struggling South African manager of theDallas Zoo, hetraveled to its naturalhabitatsbecausethe zoo had South Africa tostudy indigenous flora in capacity. astheinterim Whileserving el andinterest in plantsinaprofessional Huey toindulgebothhispassionfortrav- ment ofParks andRecreation allowed One special assignmentwiththeDepart- THETROPICSTEXAS IN MIMICKING interest inplants even more.” others enjoytheir gardening hobby and theAHS,it’sporting possible tohelp I thinkthatby beingamemberandsup- inhorticulturecate meevenand further AHS membershipbecause“ithelpsedu- to exciting destinations, Huey values his A lifelonggardener,PhilHueyenjoysgrowingavarietyofplantssuchasspringbulbs. “A lotofareas inSouth Africaare lush Aside from the opportunity to travel to Aside from theopportunity Phil Huey hardy native palmsandmimosatrees. look usingTexas-adapted plants,suchas standing ofhow toreplicate thistropical The expeditionprovided abetterunder- area inhisgarden. ing room foraMediterranean-inspired this upcomingtrip,mak- hejustmightbe sail from Cape Town toLondon.After turning toSouth years Africa afew ago to This willbeHuey’s afterre- secondcruise Mediterranean, from Venice toBarcelona. ward thisfallthrough the toacruise long.He’sput very already lookingfor- thank-yous, hewon’tbirthday bestaying venture. Afterhefinisheswritinghis Huey isalwayslookingforanotherad- Whether athomeinhisgarden orabroad, NEW ADVENTURES AHEAD for hernexthorticultural adventure. Gardener, A recent for editorialintern Terra-Nova Sadowski islooking July / August /August July The American 2011 13 The rosypinkflowers ofEriogonumgrande 14 Buckwheats versatile andwater-thrifty ogonum such group. Anotherisbuckwheats(Eri- increasingly popular. Succulents are one minimal care. In regions where water erate extended dry periodsare becoming erate extendeddry scarcity isthenorm,plantsthatcantol- looking forplantsthatwillthrive with W Buckwheats drought tolerance,wildlifevalue,andlongseason ofinterest. the American Gardener spp.), agenusofwater-thrifty gardeners nationwide are able landscapingontherise, ITH INTEREST (Eriogonum in sustain- spp.) arealargeanddiversegenusofAmerican nativesprizedfortheir var. says Panayoti Kelaidis, seniorcuratorat any seriouspractitionerof‘xeriscape’.” this region andare absolutelyessentialto era are thebackboneofnative gardens in Denver BotanicGardens. twogen- “These mons aslandscapeplantsinwestern states,” garden. the dry beauty oftenovershadows theirutilityin North Americannatives whosedelicate rubescens “Eriogonums are theequalofpenste- spill gracefullyover rocks,alongside meadow andprairiegardens, orcontain- well inrock gardens, mixed borders, equally best ininformalgardens, serving focal points.Theirbillowy shapeswork ing, groundcovers, informalhedges,or are usefulforerosion control,dustry edg- currently in- available through thenursery ticularly suitedfortrough gardens. ers. Thediminutive alpinespeciesare par- Leymus condensatus The twodozen orsoperennial species BY CAROLBORNSTEIN 'Canyon Prince'.