Awesome Alliums

Connecticut Horticultural Society FIRST CLASS US POSTAGE 2433 Main Street PAID HARTFORD, CT Rocky Hill, CT 06067 PERMIT #2346

CHS Calendar at a Glance June 5 – Board meeting, potluck supper June 23 – Deadline for summer Volume 56, Number 9 Serving Horticulturists Since 1887 June 2014 newsletter June 19 – Program meeting, Rob Awesome Alliums How to Help Cardillo, “The Well -Designed Photograph” by Steve Silk Our Landscapes Cope With Fickle his is the season when the sweet spheroid flowers of the biggest Weather Patterns of alliums, Allium giganteum, T by Karla A. Dalley strut their stuff on the garden stage. Their wacky globe-shaped flowers and singularly strange textures make them s gardeners, we are some of the a good partner for virtually any other luckiest people on the planet: plant, in the garden or in the vase. And Awe have very short memories. these easy-to-grow, undemanding bulbs If we didn’t, we might never garden Our June meeting is family night and come in every color, as long as it’s some again! Because surely the memories of begins with an ice cream social at 6:30. variation of blue, pink or white. last summer’s weather might be enough And they boast one other especially to make us give up altogether. worthwhile attribute: many species of If you are thinking that last summer allium bloom when little else is flower- wasn’t a challenge, that just shows what ing in the garden. Thus they excel at I mean! It wasn’t particularly hot—there filling an aching gap in the sequence of were no 100 degree days. But rainfall Three Bloomfield Gardens Open for The Garden Conservancy bloom, which makes them very welcome patterns made the growing season chal- indeed in beds and borders of all types. lenging. ince 1989, The Garden Conser- edibles and ornamentals. Ash trees with a cacophony of color. Meander As last year’s season began, we were vancy has helped preserve more hauled to their local lumber mill were through the gardens to also view the And they’ve got cousins, a host of other alliums who make their own unique con- already in moderate drought. In fact, than 100 exceptional gardens made into timbers to build their barn dwarf conifers, unusual hostas, and since 2010, three of the last four years S tributions to the garden scene. With its wild mop, Allium ‘Hair’ is the Phyllis their sedum collection. across the United States. One way they and unearthed brownstone boulders have been abnormally dry—or worse. were used to create berms and retain- Another Roadside Attraction, at Diller of the plant world. Photo by Steve Silk raise funds is through their Open Days So What’s Not to Like? That dry pattern didn’t change until June ing walls to enhance the gardens that 1 Adams Road, beckons. These are Program, which offers participants Well, their common name for one thing. Ornamental onion? You’ve got to be kidding of 2013 when we had ten inches of rain. the opportunity to explore hundreds Catherine and Chip have planted. the gardens of Sharon and David me. I mean, really, how ornamental could an onion be? Talk about an oxymoron! So That was followed by two weeks of tem- of magnificent spaces not normally Admission is $5.00 Mann, resourceful artists and profes- for that reason alone, I shall henceforth refer to these garden worthy specimens by Saturday, July 12th is the perfect sional horticulturalists. Lighthearted peratures alternating between very warm open to the public. The 2014 season their proper Latinate name, allium, which meant, back in the day, garlic. day to take a ride to Bloomfield again and whimsical touches grace an 1880 90s and abnormally cool 60s, but with has already begun and some members The word allium is derived from an ancient Greek word meaning “to avoid,” which and visit two distinct gardens less than Painted Lady Victorian abutting the near record level dew points the entire of CHS have opened their gardens for one does, presumably, because of the bulbs’ distinctive scent. The genus includes you to wander through. In Bloomfield, a mile apart. Both are open from 10 northeast corner of Penwood State two weeks. It was difficult for plants leeks, onions, chives, garlic and even that foodie favorite, ramps. So yes, it’s true the my hometown, three gardens will be a.m. to 4 p.m.; admission is $5.00 for Park. Cascading waterfall sounds and for people. Three ‘normal’ weeks bulbs do have a garlicky odor, but that’s not a bad thing, and it helps keep deer and open to the public to check out. each garden. usher you into outdoor garden rooms followed, and then, on August 9, we had other pests from browsing showy allium blooms. Ridge View Garden, the home of Terrace Hill Farm, the gardens of featuring a dynamic landscape of 3.79 inches of rain in a single day. Catherine Lyons, a garden designer, Cheryl Fox and Phillip Douville at 27 unusual specimen trees, shrubs, peren- Near as I can tell, the only problem with alliums is their foliage. While the initial (continued on page 5) and Chip Caton at 59 Duncaster Duncaster Road, surrounds an 1870 nials and tropical plants. green blades thrusting from the earth in early spring display an appealing sense of Road, will be open Saturday, June farmhouse and outbuildings with a For more information and direc- purpose (and in some cases make for good eating), they soon start slacking, and by the time the plants come into flower the foliage is commonly brown at the tips, or worse. 14 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Their all- view of Talcott Ridge. Cheryl is the tions on how to get to these gardens, In This Issue organic garden provides a welcoming secretary and Phillip the treasurer visit The Garden Conservancy Web- Alliums are sun lovers, and the more they get the happier they are, though I do grow some in part shade that seem just fine. Any soil is fine, as long as it’s well-drained. environment and habitat for birds, of The Connecticut Daylily Society. site https://www.gardenconservancy. Speaker Program Page 3 butterflies and humans alike. You Their extensive daylily collection of org/opendays. These pollinator pleasing plants are drought tolerant too. Though most sources will will find native plantings mixed with over 400 cultivars will be in flower —Sharon Mann tell you that alliums can be planted only in fall, I’ve had great success transplanting Horticultural Happenings Page 6 seedlings shortly after their foliage emerges in spring. But planting them as bulbs Traveling with CHS Page 7 (continued on page 4) Page 2 June 2014 CHS Newsletter June 2014 CHS Newsletter Page 7 Letter from the President The Fells Historic Estate and Gardens Dear Gardening Friends, Thursday, July 17, 2014 Nature and the garden are so resilient oin CHS on Thursday, July 17 for a Private Garden Tour with the land- landscape director. The gardens include a that it hardly seems possible that luncheon cruise and historic estate scape director at The Fells Historic blend of formal and naturalistic gardens the effects of storms Irene, Alfred, Jand garden tour of The Fells! Estate and Gardens. The Fells is one of which complement the stunning beauty Sandy and Nemo are still showing up. Luncheon Cruise on Lake Sunapee: New England’s finest examples of an of the surrounding hills, lake, and forest. Depart: 7:30 a.m., commuter lot, 500 A favorite viburnum that I ‘rescued’ We’ll relax aboard the MV Kearsarge for early 20th-century summer estate. Come a private 1½-hour cruise on the crystal and discover 83.5 conserved acres of Main Street, East. Hartford; 8 a.m., Emanuel 22 years ago from the woods cannot, clear Lake Sunapee. Enjoy a refresh- beauty and tranquility and learn the leg- Synagogue, 160 Mohegan Drive, West in the end, be rescued. It’s a favorite Hartford. Return: West Hartford 8:00 p.m.; Connecticut ing summer menu including salad bar, acy of its founder, John Milton Hay. Best not because of its scent or color, but East Hartford 8:30 p.m. Cost: $109 per rolls & butter, homemade chicken salad known as President Lincoln’s private person CHS members; $113 per person non Horticultural Society because of its pagoda form, its creamy 2433 Main Street with grapes, sliced turkey, roast beef & secretary, John Milton Hay also served members. No refunds on daytrips. Please umbels buzzing with nine different provide a substitute. Please make checks Rocky Hill, CT 06067 cheese, Caprese salad, potato salad sea- as Secretary of State under Presidents pollinators, its leathery leaves, and its sonal fruit and assorted gourmet cakes. McKinley and Roosevelt. We will enjoy payable to CHS & mail to: Friendship Tours, red berries which are stripped bare by As we cruise, our captain will provide a a historic guided tour of this 22-room 705 Bloomfield Ave., Bloomfield, CT 06002. (860) 529-8713 ATTN: CHS Daytrips. Payment due with mixed flocks of thrashers, cardinals, narration of the history and lore of this Colonial Revival home; including a spe- reservation. Questions? Barbara, Friendship and cedar waxwings. A (not) strong exceptionally pure glacial lake. cial private tour of the gardens with the fax: (860) 563-2217 Tours (860) 243-1630 or (800) 243-1630. (enough) leader parted ways, putting email: [email protected] an end to the viburnum’s perfect bal- website: www.cthort.org ance of outstretched limbs. I made that Rough Point – The Doris Duke Estate Office & Library Hours first big cut, and prayed for healing. Wednesday, August 20, 2014 This week the fried ferns below its branches tell the tale. It’s not just late leafing out. Tuesday & Thursday he Connecticut Horticultural So- The arborday.org site tells me this is a ‘tree tragedy’. I bet you know exactly what I special exhibition galleries. This year’s shrubs, trees, and perennials for sun and 11 a.m.- 4 p.m. ciety presents Rough Point – The mean and you simply have to tell me your own story. We have a place for you on our exhibit, “No Rules: the Personal Style shade, including a large variety of hostas. Doris Duke Estate! of Doris Duke,” explores Doris Duke’s Depart: 7:30 a.m., Emanuel Synagogue, new website under ‘groups’ to do just this, a place to share your questions, answers, T Steve Silk Welcome to the Newport home of personality and creativity through her 160 Mohegan Drive, West Hartford; 7:50 tree tragedies and the like with other CHS members. There are many features still CHS Director of Communications Doris Duke—heiress, philanthropist and fashion statements. Outdoors, we’ll take a.m., Commuter Lot, 500 Main St. East being honed—too many to list. Soon though, you’ll be able to take a cruise through art collector. Hartford; 9:00 a.m., Olde Mistick Village, 74 Prattling Pond Road a 45-minute landscape history and gar- the new CHS site to see its new look and get the whole story. Enjoy her magnificent oceanfront den tour. Learn about the distinguished Clare Drive & 27 Coogan Blvd. Return: Farmington, CT 06032 It is June, so that means we’ll be closing out the speaker season with our Ice estate, still decorated as she left it, where design history of this landscape, first 5:30 p.m. Olde Mistick Village; 7:00 p.m. East Hartford; 7:20 p.m. West Hartford. [email protected] Cream Social at 6:30 p.m. and one last speaker: Rob Cardillo. He’ll be presenting: you will see French furniture, European created in the 1890’s by Frederick Law art, Chinese porcelains, and Turkish Cost: $82 per person CHS Members; $84 The Well-Designed Photograph. He is a pro and I know you’ll leave with a new Olmsted, the father of landscape archi- per person non members. No refunds on carpets collected from exotic locations Send Membership Information perspective of your garden. tecture, while enjoying exquisite gardens daytrips. Please provide a substitute. Please & Direct General Questions To: Remember this June meeting is meant to be shared with family. Please bring around the world. Located on Newport’s and breathtaking views. make checks payable to CHS & mail to: Bonnie Penders them—then you can go out and take better pictures together! exclusive Bellevue Avenue. Afternoon time for lunch on your Friendship Tours, 705 Bloomfield Ave., The trip includes a 75-minute guided Office Administrator Till then, don’t forget your sunscreen. Or your bug repellant! own in Newport Wharf area. Bloomfield, CT 06002. ATTN: CHS Daytrips. tour of the home, including the entire As a special treat, we’ll visit the pri- Payment due with reservation. Questions? 2433 Main Street, Rocky Hill, CT 06067 first floor of the house and an upstairs Barbara, Friendship Tours (860) 243-1630 vate garden of Arija Retsema in Stoning- visit to Doris Duke’s bedroom and the ton on our way home! Full of beautiful or (800) 243-1630. Membership Dues: Individual...... $45 Nancy B. Individual Senior (65+)...... $40 Bullets over Broadway, The Musical. Family...... $65 Wednesday, November 5, 2014 Senior Family (65+)...... $60 elcome to the 1920s! Join wright who is forced to cast a mobster’s Depart: 7:30 a.m. Emanuel Synagogue, Sustaining...... $125-500 CHS for orchestra seats for talentless girlfriend in his latest drama 160 Mohegan Drive, West Hartford; 8:00 Business & Organization...... $70 Directions to the Connecticut Horticultural Society Office & Library this matinee performance of in order to get it produced. Woody Al- a.m., Commuter Lot, 500 Main St., East W Hartford. Return: 7:30 p.m. East Hartford; Student (full time with Bullets Over Broadway at the St. James len and Susan Stroman join forces for From the south: take I-91 North to Exit 23 West Street, Rocky Hill. Take a right at valid ID)...... free Theatre, including a pre-show lunch. the first time with BULLETS OVER 8:00 p.m. West Hartford. Cost: $212 per person CHS members; $218 per person non the end of the exit. At the fourth traffic light, take a left onto Route 99 (Main Street). A playwright who needs someone BROADWAY, the new Broadway show Contributions are tax-exempt to the extent The office is located at 2433 Main Street in the Prestige Office building, a short dis- members. No refunds on daytrips. Please to back his next show; A mobster who about the making of a Broadway show. provide a substitute. Please make checks permitted under Section 170 of the Inter- tance on your left. nal Revenue Service Code. Reproduction needs some way to please his showgirl This tour includes a delicious pre- payable to CHS & mail to: Friendship Tours, of the CHS Newsletter in whole or part From the north: take I-91 South, take Exit 23. At the end of the ramp, go left onto girlfriend. This could be the start of a show lunch at DaRosina Ristorante in the 705 Bloomfield Ave., Bloomfield, CT 06002. without prior permission is prohibited. West Street. Follow the previous directions. beautiful friendship—or a brand new Theater District. Choose an appetizer, ATTN: CHS Daytrips. Payment due with © Copyright 2014 musical comedy! Bullets Over Broadway main course and dessert that day from a reservation. Questions? Barbara, Friendship From I-84: take Route 9 to Exit 20 and I-91 North. Follow the directions above. tells the story of an aspiring young play- wonderful Italian menu. Tours (860) 243-1630 or (800) 243-1630. Page 6 June 2014 CHS Newsletter June 2014 CHS Newsletter Page 3

tive shape assures these Brobdingnagian go without saying that I love alliums. Drought and deluge continued this center. These are in-ground wa- blooms look great wherever they arise. These are plants Dr. Seuss would have past winter. Despite all of the snow, this tering systems for your gardens, grown with pride. But when it comes to spring parts of Connecticut and New just as many folks have had for An Allium with an Alias the downright freakish, look no further England have already bounced between the lawn for years. Another must-have member of the al- than Allium ‘Hair,’ a kooky fright wig of abnormally dry and abnormally wet. So, There are some misunder- lium tribe is Allium bulgaricum, or at least wild-looking green hair atop a scape that fellow gardeners, let’s plan ahead and standings surrounding drip irri- it would be if those darn taxonomists can reach two feet or more in height. take some action now to help us deal gation. Many folks do not realize had not recently reassigned this stunner Plant a drift of these, and it will it look with this upcoming summer—and the that it takes hours, not minutes, as Nectaroscordum siculum var. bulgaricum, as if your garden is hosting a crew of many seasons of changeable weather for a drip irrigation system to a new name which is even harder to heavy metal rock stars, but these full that may follow. As a bonus, strategies thoroughly saturate the soil. say than it is to remember. Great com- sun to part shade players make beautiful we employ to deal with these weather How much time depends on the mon name too: Sicilian honey garlic. music in the garden and will be welcome challenges—whether it is unusual dry- soil type, how dry it is, your water Whatever you call it, I want more of it. wherever they appear. ness or occasional cloudbursts—will pressure, and the type of irriga- In late spring this three- to four- foot make gardening easier, no matter what tion used, among other things. tall species bears dazzling umbels of An Autumnal Allium type of gardening we are doing. To determine how long to run creamy white flowers flushed with bits Not all alliums bloom in spring or sum- an irrigation system, turn it on of burgundy and green. The structure of mer, and one of best of the late season Start with the Soil early in the morning, and every these blooms is much looser and more bunch is Allium thunbergii ‘Ozawa’, which First, consider the soil. Whether your soil two hours go out with a trowel refined looking than the typical tightly bursts onto the stage in October for is sandy, hard-packed clay, or something Orbs of Allium ‘Globemaster’ bloom to see how deeply the water has packed orb of flowers that characterizes me. Its reddish violet blooms look like a in between, adding compost is a benefit alongside foxtail lilies, creating a shapely penetrated the soil. When mois- contrast. Photo by Steve Silk most alliums. The flowers’ burgundy burst of one- to two inch balls of floral in times of drought summers and when ture reaches the desired depth, tints make spectacular color echoes when fireworks erupting over a grassy tuft the weather is both too wet and too dry. that’s how long the system will is certainly easiest. Just use the old rule planted near small trees or shrubs with of chive-like foliage. Kind of diminu- Compost is the great equalizer, aerating have to have to run. of thumb and plant the bulbs deeply dark foliage, such as reddest of Japanese tive, this allium tops off at eight to 12 clay soils and helping sandy soils retain Timers are available to turn enough to cover them with soil three maples, or a purple smoke bush. inches. After a few years, its vigor starts moisture. Unlike peat moss, it is renew- Drip irrigation is the most efficient way to water plants the systems on and off, but keep times the height of the bulbs; an inch to diminish, and plants are best revived able, non acidic, and it does not have a in the ground or in containers and its component parts Surpassingly Strange ‘Hair’ snap together as easily as Tinkertoys. in mind that watering longer tall bulb would be planted four inches by taking a few divisions and replanting re-wetting issue if it dries out. If you As an unrepentant aficionado of botani- Photo by Steve Silk and more deeply is preferable deep, so there was room for three inches them. This is one of the few alliums make one change in the garden, adding cal curiosities and all things strange in to watering, say, three times a of soil on top. more commonly sold in pots than as compost to the soil is the one to make. the plant kingdom, I suppose it might blooming bulbs that are done blooming week for twenty minutes, as you might Herewith are a few favorites. bare bulbs. The more we learn about soil, the do with your lawn. Should you automate more we know that it is best to disturb by the time my perennials and shrubs fill Garden Goliaths the irrigation system, add a rain sensor so it as little as possible (think of books in. It’s not foolproof, but it’s surely bet- The Allium giganteum clan are the big that the system will not turn on should like “Weedless Gardening” by Lee Reich ter than losing plants to disease and rot. boys of the allium world. Silvery purple it actually rain. which advocates no tilling at all), so the What about watering? ‘Globemaster’, purple-blue ‘Gladiator’, meeting moments Finally, for even less impact on the best way to add compost is to simply top No matter how much you improve the and ‘White Giant’ boast bigger than With Michael Ruggiero on environment, use rain barrels. When dress the soil. soil with compost and how expertly you softball-sized, globe-shaped flowers “All About Containers: From Design to Installation” properly installed and fitted, they do But beyond that, some reasonable de- mulch, when the weather turns dry, you’ll blooming atop scapes that can reach up not breed mosquitoes. And though the On containers: “If it’s ugly, hide it; if it’s very expensive, don’t hide it. The better gree of cover is wise. Some garden writ- still need to water. And watering is still an to four feet in height. A drift of these water is not safe for drinking and should the pot, the less you hide it.” ers advise that if a 2-3" cover of mulch issue. While we do not yet have watering brings drama to any garden, and their not used on edibles, it can be used on is good, then a 4-6" cover of mulch is bans or proscribed watering days like bloom, in early to mid-June, is timed “I add a quarter by volume of good organic compost to a high quality potting ornamental gardens and trees, which are even better! Absolutely not! The garden gardeners in the western United States, perfectly to fill the slight interval in flow- mix.” He recommends purchasing potting mix without fertilizer. so difficult to keep watered in drought is not the place to “compost in place” as good stewards of the earth—and as ering fury that demarcates the passing For fertilizing container plantings, Michael recommends mixing Espoma organic situations. With proper fittings, the water with wood chips. Moisture may not even smart gardeners—it makes sense for us splendors of late spring from the onset fertilizer into the potting mix before planting, along with Osmocote or other could also be directed right to drip irriga- be able to penetrate such a deep cover, to use water wisely. of early summer flowers. The idea of a time release fertilizer at half the recommended amount. After planting, fertilize tion systems. As the cost of our municipal particularly if it’s only a gentle rain. And, One of the best ways to do this is drift or, better yet, several drifts of these every two weeks with liquid soluble fertilizer at half the recommended strength. water rises, “free” water is always a bonus. mulching with wood chips invites disease drip irrigation, which can range from brightening the garden with their bold “Get houseplants out of the house and into your displays.” Gardening can be challenging in and rot into my garden. So I try to avoid something as simple as a soaker hose architectural presence might be quashed weather extremes. These are a few steps Use lots of plants: “I love packing things.” using a wood chip mulch. Instead, I plant (buried under mulch for even better by a look at their price tags, but purchas- you can take to minimize the effects as closely as I can. And I sow either very effectiveness) to a specialized kit that ing a half dozen or so is a good start and Take care of the plants: “Dead is not a good landscape option.” weather has on your garden to ensure that early blooming perennial groundcovers can be purchased, either online or from soon there will be lots of seedlings to On design: “Do what you want.” gardening will continue to be a joy. like forget-me nots (myosotis) or spring a home improvement store or garden move about. Their epic size and distinc- Page 4 June 2014 CHS Newsletter June 2014 CHS Newsletter Page 5 Alliums, from page 1 Weather, from page 1

tive shape assures these Brobdingnagian go without saying that I love alliums. Drought and deluge continued this center. These are in-ground wa- blooms look great wherever they arise. These are plants Dr. Seuss would have past winter. Despite all of the snow, this tering systems for your gardens, grown with pride. But when it comes to spring parts of Connecticut and New just as many folks have had for An Allium with an Alias the downright freakish, look no further England have already bounced between the lawn for years. Another must-have member of the al- than Allium ‘Hair,’ a kooky fright wig of abnormally dry and abnormally wet. So, There are some misunder- lium tribe is Allium bulgaricum, or at least wild-looking green hair atop a scape that fellow gardeners, let’s plan ahead and standings surrounding drip irri- it would be if those darn taxonomists can reach two feet or more in height. take some action now to help us deal gation. Many folks do not realize had not recently reassigned this stunner Plant a drift of these, and it will it look with this upcoming summer—and the that it takes hours, not minutes, as Nectaroscordum siculum var. bulgaricum, as if your garden is hosting a crew of many seasons of changeable weather for a drip irrigation system to a new name which is even harder to heavy metal rock stars, but these full that may follow. As a bonus, strategies thoroughly saturate the soil. say than it is to remember. Great com- sun to part shade players make beautiful we employ to deal with these weather How much time depends on the mon name too: Sicilian honey garlic. music in the garden and will be welcome challenges—whether it is unusual dry- soil type, how dry it is, your water Whatever you call it, I want more of it. wherever they appear. ness or occasional cloudbursts—will pressure, and the type of irriga- In late spring this three- to four- foot make gardening easier, no matter what tion used, among other things. tall species bears dazzling umbels of An Autumnal Allium type of gardening we are doing. To determine how long to run creamy white flowers flushed with bits Not all alliums bloom in spring or sum- an irrigation system, turn it on of burgundy and green. The structure of mer, and one of best of the late season Start with the Soil early in the morning, and every these blooms is much looser and more bunch is Allium thunbergii ‘Ozawa’, which First, consider the soil. Whether your soil two hours go out with a trowel refined looking than the typical tightly bursts onto the stage in October for is sandy, hard-packed clay, or something Orbs of Allium ‘Globemaster’ bloom to see how deeply the water has packed orb of flowers that characterizes me. Its reddish violet blooms look like a in between, adding compost is a benefit alongside foxtail lilies, creating a shapely penetrated the soil. When mois- contrast. Photo by Steve Silk most alliums. The flowers’ burgundy burst of one- to two inch balls of floral in times of drought summers and when ture reaches the desired depth, tints make spectacular color echoes when fireworks erupting over a grassy tuft the weather is both too wet and too dry. that’s how long the system will is certainly easiest. Just use the old rule planted near small trees or shrubs with of chive-like foliage. Kind of diminu- Compost is the great equalizer, aerating have to have to run. of thumb and plant the bulbs deeply dark foliage, such as reddest of Japanese tive, this allium tops off at eight to 12 clay soils and helping sandy soils retain Timers are available to turn enough to cover them with soil three maples, or a purple smoke bush. inches. After a few years, its vigor starts moisture. Unlike peat moss, it is renew- Drip irrigation is the most efficient way to water plants the systems on and off, but keep times the height of the bulbs; an inch to diminish, and plants are best revived able, non acidic, and it does not have a in the ground or in containers and its component parts Surpassingly Strange ‘Hair’ snap together as easily as Tinkertoys. in mind that watering longer tall bulb would be planted four inches by taking a few divisions and replanting re-wetting issue if it dries out. If you As an unrepentant aficionado of botani- Photo by Steve Silk and more deeply is preferable deep, so there was room for three inches them. This is one of the few alliums make one change in the garden, adding cal curiosities and all things strange in to watering, say, three times a of soil on top. more commonly sold in pots than as compost to the soil is the one to make. the plant kingdom, I suppose it might blooming bulbs that are done blooming week for twenty minutes, as you might Herewith are a few favorites. bare bulbs. The more we learn about soil, the do with your lawn. Should you automate more we know that it is best to disturb by the time my perennials and shrubs fill Garden Goliaths the irrigation system, add a rain sensor so it as little as possible (think of books in. It’s not foolproof, but it’s surely bet- The Allium giganteum clan are the big that the system will not turn on should like “Weedless Gardening” by Lee Reich ter than losing plants to disease and rot. boys of the allium world. Silvery purple it actually rain. which advocates no tilling at all), so the What about watering? ‘Globemaster’, purple-blue ‘Gladiator’, meeting moments Finally, for even less impact on the best way to add compost is to simply top No matter how much you improve the and ‘White Giant’ boast bigger than With Michael Ruggiero on environment, use rain barrels. When dress the soil. soil with compost and how expertly you softball-sized, globe-shaped flowers “All About Containers: From Design to Installation” properly installed and fitted, they do But beyond that, some reasonable de- mulch, when the weather turns dry, you’ll blooming atop scapes that can reach up not breed mosquitoes. And though the On containers: “If it’s ugly, hide it; if it’s very expensive, don’t hide it. The better gree of cover is wise. Some garden writ- still need to water. And watering is still an to four feet in height. A drift of these water is not safe for drinking and should the pot, the less you hide it.” ers advise that if a 2-3" cover of mulch issue. While we do not yet have watering brings drama to any garden, and their not used on edibles, it can be used on is good, then a 4-6" cover of mulch is bans or proscribed watering days like bloom, in early to mid-June, is timed “I add a quarter by volume of good organic compost to a high quality potting ornamental gardens and trees, which are even better! Absolutely not! The garden gardeners in the western United States, perfectly to fill the slight interval in flow- mix.” He recommends purchasing potting mix without fertilizer. so difficult to keep watered in drought is not the place to “compost in place” as good stewards of the earth—and as ering fury that demarcates the passing For fertilizing container plantings, Michael recommends mixing Espoma organic situations. With proper fittings, the water with wood chips. Moisture may not even smart gardeners—it makes sense for us splendors of late spring from the onset fertilizer into the potting mix before planting, along with Osmocote or other could also be directed right to drip irriga- be able to penetrate such a deep cover, to use water wisely. of early summer flowers. The idea of a time release fertilizer at half the recommended amount. After planting, fertilize tion systems. As the cost of our municipal particularly if it’s only a gentle rain. And, One of the best ways to do this is drift or, better yet, several drifts of these every two weeks with liquid soluble fertilizer at half the recommended strength. water rises, “free” water is always a bonus. mulching with wood chips invites disease drip irrigation, which can range from brightening the garden with their bold “Get houseplants out of the house and into your displays.” Gardening can be challenging in and rot into my garden. So I try to avoid something as simple as a soaker hose architectural presence might be quashed weather extremes. These are a few steps Use lots of plants: “I love packing things.” using a wood chip mulch. Instead, I plant (buried under mulch for even better by a look at their price tags, but purchas- you can take to minimize the effects as closely as I can. And I sow either very effectiveness) to a specialized kit that ing a half dozen or so is a good start and Take care of the plants: “Dead is not a good landscape option.” weather has on your garden to ensure that early blooming perennial groundcovers can be purchased, either online or from soon there will be lots of seedlings to On design: “Do what you want.” gardening will continue to be a joy. like forget-me nots (myosotis) or spring a home improvement store or garden move about. Their epic size and distinc- Page 6 June 2014 CHS Newsletter June 2014 CHS Newsletter Page 3

Horticultural Happenings & Announcements The Well-Designed Photograph CHS Program Meeting Note: Happenings are listed on a space-available basis. Please email the listing, formatted to resemble the entries below, to [email protected]. Deadline for the summer issue is June 23. Costs given below are for people who are not members of the hosting organization. June 19—Speaker Rob Cardillo, Our meetings are open to members Freelance Garden Photographer and nonmembers alike, with a $10 Making a Place for Birds sire. Another approach is to work with iconn.net or visit www.naturework.com. donation requested from nonmem- CT NOFA is hosting a workshop: Creat- naturally occurring events and plants to Natureworks, 518 Forest Road (Route bers. We look forward to seeing you! ot every garden photographer ing Bird Friendly Communities in Con- achieve a landscape that is sensually, intel- 22), Northford. Date: Thursday, June 19 necticut at Massaro Community Farm in lectually and emotionally satisfying. This learned some of the tricks of their trade as a paleontologist. Time: 7:30 p.m. (6:45 p.m. for so- Woodbridge. It will offer guidance for naturalistic landscaping workshop with N cializing, browsing CHS library But as a budding paleontologist pros- landowners and farmers on strategies to Larry Weaner will focus on the discussion books, raffle items and travel fliers, pecting for fossils in New Mexico, Rob create habitat for birds and a healthier en- and demonstration of ecologically-based and asking plant questions) vironment for all. Includes a walk-about naturalistic landscaping and its benefits. Cardillo made an unexpected discovery. Acorn Herbals, Storrs Location: Emanuel Synagogue, 160 of Massaro Community Farm to view There will be information presented for Having given up the day’s hunt in frustra- Linda Akerman & Sean Shoemaker, Colchester Mohegan Dr., West Hartford examples of bird habitats on their prop- both those familiar with this form of wild tion, he sat in the only shade around and Sandra Anderson, Pomfret Center Directions: From I-84, take exit 43 erty. Saturday, June 21, 10:30 a.m. to landscaping and those new to it. With an found himself in a rich bed of Permian Anne Dzialo & Doug Atkins, Guilford (West Hartford Center, Park Road). 12:30 p.m. $30. For more information, understanding of natural processes you era fossils that subsequently became Elizabeth Barton, Glastonbury Turn right at exit and go half a block visit their website, http://ctnofa.org/ will learn how to work with the land to de- David Bautz & Winnie Suraci, Clinton known as Cardillo Quarry. events/OnFarmWorkshops/2014_On- “There’s a lot of similarity between to the next light. Turn left at light onto velop an attractive and healthy landscape. Michelle Blackburn, Darien Trout Brook Drive. Proceed for six Farm_Workshops.html Jacqueline Bullock, Bridgeport prospecting for fossils and looking for Weather permitting, most of the time will lights to Albany Avenue. Turn right Amy Bush, Mystic a good photograph,” Rob says. “ You White Flower Farm Open House be spent walking the woods and fields on Albany Avenue and continue to Mary Canty, Durham don’t just get out of the car and click; of Aton Forest observing managed and the next light, Mohegan Drive. Turn Just in time for the beginning of summer, Nancy Cebik, Waterbury you spend time walking the garden and White Flower Farm will hold its annual natural habitats. There will also be time to left on Mohegan Drive. Pass two stop Erik Christensen, Winsted seeing all the views, the intended views Open House day, when we welcome talk about participants’ land management Rob Cardillo signs. Synagogue is on the right. issues. Lunch and refreshments provided. CT Historic Gardens, Hartford and the unintended views.” old friends and new for iced tea and Robin Dressler, West Hartford It’s a process of discovery. And if just arrange them in ways that make cucumber sandwiches on the lawn by Saturday, June 14, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. cost Mary Drews, Haddam Neck you’re lucky, you get to see a place through stint in a herbarium. Photography was our house. The date this year is Saturday, $35. Aton Forest, 270 North Colebrook Rosemarie Englert, Bristol them wonderfully complex and interest- June 21 and we will start serving around Road, Norfolk. For more info, email English Gardens & Landscaping, Killingworth new eyes, whether it’s a bed of fossils or ing.” Thus are aligned the aims of both always an aspect of his museum career, 2:30 p.m. The display gardens should be [email protected] or call (860) 542- Liz Flores, Milford an expanse of garden. Of photography, gardener and photographer. and Rob’s growing interest led to night close to peak and the Begonia House full 5125. http://afworkshops.blogspot.com Pat & Cindy Franzis, Naugatuck he says, “It’s a wonderful opportunity to And in this day when nearly everyone classes, programs at the renowned Maine Shirley Girouard, Branford be in nature and to try to communicate Photo Workshop and an intensive class of renowned Blackmore & Langdon va- Better Plant Choices has a camera in their pocket, thanks to Kathryn Hanlon, Plantsville the beauty of that place and enhance it with photographic superstar Jay Maisel. rieties will be hitting their stride. Before Why Grow That When You Can Grow the ubiquitous cell phone, he’ll also talk Kathleen Harris, Cheshire through the lens of a camera.” about iPhone-ography. Those who have An ad seeking a photo editor for the refreshments are served, visitors can This? Andrew Keys talks about why we go Julie & Lincoln Harvey, Cromwell join WFF staff for a guided tour of the to such lengths to grow problem plants, That’s precisely what Rob does these yet to explore the often astounding world Organic Gardening magazine caught his Irene Hendrickson, Wethersfield days. Rising to the top of his craft of gar- eye back in 1988, and he got the job. At display gardens at 1:30 p.m. There is and counters with new favorites that are Dolores Iannini, West Hartford of photo apps and cellphones will find no charge for the tour, but visitors are sure to please and are more sustainable. Frances Iunnu, Hartford den photography, he now photographs that smart phones can take some amaz- first he worked mostly with other pro- encouraged to register on the website at Sunday, June 22, 1 to 3 p.m. $25. To reg- Gayle Kellas, Middletown primarily for books and magazines. At the ing pictures. fessional photographers, but was soon www.whiteflowerfarm.com. Saturday, ister or for more information, call (203) Ed & Linda Kozloski, Suffield moment, he’s juggling shooting for three The gist of what he has to offer are taking more of his own photos for the June 21, 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. White Flower 288-1026, email info@brokenarrownurs- Paula Leibovitz, Southington book projects. For those who remember what he calls simple things, “Things that magazine. Next, he graduated to full time Farm, 167 Litchfield Road, Morris. ery.com or abrand@brokenarrownursery. Kathleen Longo, Glastonbury our September speaker David Culp, it was can make everybody’s photos stand up freelancer and is today one of a handful com, or visit www.brokenarrownursery. Duane & Alice Luster, Glastonbury Rob who took the exquisite photographs and sing.” of garden photographers able to earn a Hartford Blooms Anne Macleod, East Haddam shown that evening. As one who worked hard to make living exclusively from that pursuit. Hartford Blooms Garden Tour. A nine- com. Broken Arrow Nursery, 13 Broken Verne Mahoney, West Hartford Arrow Road, Hamden. When Rob addresses the Connecticut photos that sing, Rob’s own path to his One of his favorite projects to date day showcase of Hartford’s gardens and Myron Marshaus, Enfield Horticultural Society, he’ll share some of has been working on a book for Chan- Elaine Mastalerz, Tolland present day perch in garden photogra- historic architecture. Self-guided walking Container Planting Party the secrets of his craft. Very few involve phy proceeded through all kinds of fits ticleer, the inventive public garden in tours of Hartford neighborhoods. In- Debra McAlenney, Simsbury Natureworks hosts a variety of work- esoteric photographic technique. “It’s go- and starts. His grandparents lived near a Wayne, Penn. Rob lives just a few min- cludes speakers at the Hartford Public shops, walks and classes. Saturday, June Caryn Oresky, Gales Ferry Plant Parentage, Inc., Waterford ing to be something for everyone,” Rob huge Italian community garden; it was utes away in Ambler, Penn., and can get Library, visits to historic sites and the 7, from 1 to 3 p.m., is a container garden Pondering Creations, Terryville says. “There’s a lot of humor and stories. his childhood playground, a place to to the gardens for the most ephemeral opportunity to sample the menus at planting party, including iced tea, wine, Dolores Reiff, Waterford I’ve got some funny things up my sleeve.” crawl around, steal the occasional tomato atmospheric events, such as a softening area restaurants and cafes. June 21-29, and light refreshments. Bring friends, Harold & Suzanne Sanden, Manchester You might wonder why seeing a gar- and get chased out. Even as a kid, it was fog, or a magical play of light. That is $10. For more information, visit www. plant your annual containers with our Nancy Santos, Hartford den through a photographer’s eye would the shapes, colors, and textures of the the essence of what he loves about his hartfordblooms.org help. Bring or purchase containers; on Kathy Scott, South Glastonbury be useful or informative, but as Rob plants that Rob found entrancing. He profession. “You go to some of the most Sunday, June 8, 1 to 2 p.m., Edible Flow- Anne Sheffield, Wethersfield Naturalistic Landscaping points out, “The principles of design graduated to working in the paleontol- beautiful places in the world and get to ers with Kassie; and on Thursday June Jill Strawn, New Haven Workshop transcend the disciplines. Whether it’s a ogy department of several museums, make them more beautiful, if you can.” 12, from 5 to 6 p.m., The June Prune, Terri Trenholn, Meriden Many gardeners and land managers find garden photo or the design of an interior Join Rob and CHS Thursday, June 19, Saturday, June 14 from 9:30 to 10:30 David Veinotte, Nova Scotia building an archive of bird photographs themselves constantly fighting nature to space, it’s how you arrange your objects... and learn about ways to make your own a.m. Call (203) 484-2748, email nature@ Frances Violante, Waterford (becoming, in the process, what he calls maintain the aesthetic appeal they de- David Witkins, Enfield you can take a lot of simple things and a “decent” bird photographer), and a part of the world more beautiful. Page 2 June 2014 CHS Newsletter June 2014 CHS Newsletter Page 7 Letter from the President The Fells Historic Estate and Gardens Dear Gardening Friends, Thursday, July 17, 2014 Nature and the garden are so resilient oin CHS on Thursday, July 17 for a Private Garden Tour with the land- landscape director. The gardens include a that it hardly seems possible that luncheon cruise and historic estate scape director at The Fells Historic blend of formal and naturalistic gardens the effects of storms Irene, Alfred, Jand garden tour of The Fells! Estate and Gardens. The Fells is one of which complement the stunning beauty Sandy and Nemo are still showing up. Luncheon Cruise on Lake Sunapee: New England’s finest examples of an of the surrounding hills, lake, and forest. Depart: 7:30 a.m., commuter lot, 500 A favorite viburnum that I ‘rescued’ We’ll relax aboard the MV Kearsarge for early 20th-century summer estate. Come a private 1½-hour cruise on the crystal and discover 83.5 conserved acres of Main Street, East. Hartford; 8 a.m., Emanuel 22 years ago from the woods cannot, clear Lake Sunapee. Enjoy a refresh- beauty and tranquility and learn the leg- Synagogue, 160 Mohegan Drive, West in the end, be rescued. It’s a favorite Hartford. Return: West Hartford 8:00 p.m.; Connecticut ing summer menu including salad bar, acy of its founder, John Milton Hay. Best not because of its scent or color, but East Hartford 8:30 p.m. Cost: $109 per rolls & butter, homemade chicken salad known as President Lincoln’s private person CHS members; $113 per person non Horticultural Society because of its pagoda form, its creamy 2433 Main Street with grapes, sliced turkey, roast beef & secretary, John Milton Hay also served members. No refunds on daytrips. Please umbels buzzing with nine different provide a substitute. Please make checks Rocky Hill, CT 06067 cheese, Caprese salad, potato salad sea- as Secretary of State under Presidents pollinators, its leathery leaves, and its sonal fruit and assorted gourmet cakes. McKinley and Roosevelt. We will enjoy payable to CHS & mail to: Friendship Tours, red berries which are stripped bare by As we cruise, our captain will provide a a historic guided tour of this 22-room 705 Bloomfield Ave., Bloomfield, CT 06002. (860) 529-8713 ATTN: CHS Daytrips. Payment due with mixed flocks of thrashers, cardinals, narration of the history and lore of this Colonial Revival home; including a spe- reservation. Questions? Barbara, Friendship and cedar waxwings. A (not) strong exceptionally pure glacial lake. cial private tour of the gardens with the fax: (860) 563-2217 Tours (860) 243-1630 or (800) 243-1630. (enough) leader parted ways, putting email: [email protected] an end to the viburnum’s perfect bal- website: www.cthort.org ance of outstretched limbs. I made that Rough Point – The Doris Duke Estate Office & Library Hours first big cut, and prayed for healing. Wednesday, August 20, 2014 This week the fried ferns below its branches tell the tale. It’s not just late leafing out. Tuesday & Thursday he Connecticut Horticultural So- The arborday.org site tells me this is a ‘tree tragedy’. I bet you know exactly what I special exhibition galleries. This year’s shrubs, trees, and perennials for sun and 11 a.m.- 4 p.m. ciety presents Rough Point – The mean and you simply have to tell me your own story. We have a place for you on our exhibit, “No Rules: the Personal Style shade, including a large variety of hostas. Doris Duke Estate! of Doris Duke,” explores Doris Duke’s Depart: 7:30 a.m., Emanuel Synagogue, new website under ‘groups’ to do just this, a place to share your questions, answers, T Steve Silk Welcome to the Newport home of personality and creativity through her 160 Mohegan Drive, West Hartford; 7:50 tree tragedies and the like with other CHS members. There are many features still CHS Director of Communications Doris Duke—heiress, philanthropist and fashion statements. Outdoors, we’ll take a.m., Commuter Lot, 500 Main St. East being honed—too many to list. Soon though, you’ll be able to take a cruise through art collector. Hartford; 9:00 a.m., Olde Mistick Village, 74 Prattling Pond Road a 45-minute landscape history and gar- the new CHS site to see its new look and get the whole story. Enjoy her magnificent oceanfront den tour. Learn about the distinguished Clare Drive & 27 Coogan Blvd. Return: Farmington, CT 06032 It is June, so that means we’ll be closing out the speaker season with our Ice estate, still decorated as she left it, where design history of this landscape, first 5:30 p.m. Olde Mistick Village; 7:00 p.m. East Hartford; 7:20 p.m. West Hartford. [email protected] Cream Social at 6:30 p.m. and one last speaker: Rob Cardillo. He’ll be presenting: you will see French furniture, European created in the 1890’s by Frederick Law art, Chinese porcelains, and Turkish Cost: $82 per person CHS Members; $84 The Well-Designed Photograph. He is a pro and I know you’ll leave with a new Olmsted, the father of landscape archi- per person non members. No refunds on carpets collected from exotic locations Send Membership Information perspective of your garden. tecture, while enjoying exquisite gardens daytrips. Please provide a substitute. Please & Direct General Questions To: Remember this June meeting is meant to be shared with family. Please bring around the world. Located on Newport’s and breathtaking views. make checks payable to CHS & mail to: Bonnie Penders them—then you can go out and take better pictures together! exclusive Bellevue Avenue. Afternoon time for lunch on your Friendship Tours, 705 Bloomfield Ave., The trip includes a 75-minute guided Office Administrator Till then, don’t forget your sunscreen. Or your bug repellant! own in Newport Wharf area. Bloomfield, CT 06002. ATTN: CHS Daytrips. tour of the home, including the entire As a special treat, we’ll visit the pri- Payment due with reservation. Questions? 2433 Main Street, Rocky Hill, CT 06067 first floor of the house and an upstairs Barbara, Friendship Tours (860) 243-1630 vate garden of Arija Retsema in Stoning- visit to Doris Duke’s bedroom and the ton on our way home! Full of beautiful or (800) 243-1630. Membership Dues: Individual...... $45 Nancy B. Individual Senior (65+)...... $40 Bullets over Broadway, The Musical. Family...... $65 Wednesday, November 5, 2014 Senior Family (65+)...... $60 elcome to the 1920s! Join wright who is forced to cast a mobster’s Depart: 7:30 a.m. Emanuel Synagogue, Sustaining...... $125-500 CHS for orchestra seats for talentless girlfriend in his latest drama 160 Mohegan Drive, West Hartford; 8:00 Business & Organization...... $70 Directions to the Connecticut Horticultural Society Office & Library this matinee performance of in order to get it produced. Woody Al- a.m., Commuter Lot, 500 Main St., East W Hartford. Return: 7:30 p.m. East Hartford; Student (full time with Bullets Over Broadway at the St. James len and Susan Stroman join forces for From the south: take I-91 North to Exit 23 West Street, Rocky Hill. Take a right at valid ID)...... free Theatre, including a pre-show lunch. the first time with BULLETS OVER 8:00 p.m. West Hartford. Cost: $212 per person CHS members; $218 per person non the end of the exit. At the fourth traffic light, take a left onto Route 99 (Main Street). A playwright who needs someone BROADWAY, the new Broadway show Contributions are tax-exempt to the extent The office is located at 2433 Main Street in the Prestige Office building, a short dis- members. No refunds on daytrips. Please to back his next show; A mobster who about the making of a Broadway show. provide a substitute. Please make checks permitted under Section 170 of the Inter- tance on your left. nal Revenue Service Code. Reproduction needs some way to please his showgirl This tour includes a delicious pre- payable to CHS & mail to: Friendship Tours, of the CHS Newsletter in whole or part From the north: take I-91 South, take Exit 23. At the end of the ramp, go left onto girlfriend. This could be the start of a show lunch at DaRosina Ristorante in the 705 Bloomfield Ave., Bloomfield, CT 06002. without prior permission is prohibited. West Street. Follow the previous directions. beautiful friendship—or a brand new Theater District. Choose an appetizer, ATTN: CHS Daytrips. Payment due with © Copyright 2014 musical comedy! Bullets Over Broadway main course and dessert that day from a reservation. Questions? Barbara, Friendship From I-84: take Route 9 to Exit 20 and I-91 North. Follow the directions above. tells the story of an aspiring young play- wonderful Italian menu. Tours (860) 243-1630 or (800) 243-1630. Connecticut Horticultural Society FIRST CLASS US POSTAGE 2433 Main Street PAID HARTFORD, CT Rocky Hill, CT 06067 PERMIT #2346