Love Your Lawn

We've Moved

2010-06-17T15:13:00.003-05:00

Crape Myrtle. My backyard, last summer. We're waiting to see how it does this year.

We have moved our blog to our main web site. You can continue to learn landscape tips and tricks at www.ryanlawn.com.

We have a few more adjustments to make in the next few days, including enabling RSS Subscriptions. Be sure to visit the week of June 28 as we celebrate our new blog design and Facebook page with a virtual open house, complete with daily door prizes.

Hope to see you soon!

P.S. My plants are LOVING all of the rain we have been getting.

Onions in the Garden

2010-06-05T10:07:00.001-05:00

Tom's vegetable garden is doing well. We are really hoping to get some good-sized onions this year. So far, the plants look great:

We're crossing our fingers for tennis ball-sized onions this summer. (If all else fails, I suppose we can pop by the Farmer's Market.) There is nothing better than home-grown vegetables, don't you think?

Planting in Groups

2010-06-04T09:56:00.000-05:00

Larry Ryan, forester and founder of Ryan Lawn & Tree is a big proponent of mimicking Mother Nature in our residential landscapes. One of his favorite ways to implement this, is by encouraging homeowners to plant trees in groups, just like you see them in natural forests. We recently removed a single Ash tree at our office and replaced it with a group of four evergreens:

As the trees grow and fill in the space, we will have a little piece of the forest right outside our office door.

What have you done to mimic Mother Nature in your landscape?

My June Landscape

2010-06-03T09:25:00.003-05:00

I have a lot better luck planting in containers than I do planting directly into the soil. While I haven't given up on beautiful flower beds some time in the future, I have thoroughly enjoyed the pots around my house this year.

Here's a peak at what's growing at our house:

The clematis and the knock-out roses are my old standbys. The impatiens and begonias are new additions. The petunias are an annual staple: this year I opted for Super Petunias in place of my usual Wave. The pretty orange flowers grace the pot I planted at the flower swap.

Since I took these pictures, the cannas and caladiums have decided to show themselves.

What's going on in your landscape this week?

Garden Party

2010-05-28T14:07:00.004-05:00

My good friend Anne recently hostessed a planting party at her house. She provided the dirt, and everyone attending brought full-sun flowers and a container to plant.

Everyone had a great time and left the party with several pretty pots to take home. Most gardeners brought medium-sized pots, so we had a surplus of flowers necessitating a quick run out for more containers.

Our growing season has barely started, so there's more than enough time for some of you to plan a flower swap of your own. (I recommend having each guest bring half a flat of flowers.)

Falling Sycamore Leaves

2010-05-27T12:02:00.003-05:00

Yesterday, I came home to this:

A smattering of crinkly Sycamore leaves on my lawn. This happens every time we have a cool, wet spring. One of our foresters calls it "Wet Weather Disease." It's technical name is Sycamore Anthracnose.

Are you raking leaves in May, too?

Coming Home

2010-05-26T16:19:00.005-05:00

The last blooms on my lilac.

I haven't enjoyed my landscape more than I have this year. My flowers are all doing well, the lawn looks great and my husband planted some Oakleaf Hydrangeas in the backyard.

I still have room in a few pots, and I am dying to get one of those Drift roses I wrote about in April, so I am heading to Suburban Lawn & Garden at 105th & Roe in Overland Park on Friday to get the last few things on my list AND support a worthy cause.

Friday, from 5-8 p.m., Suburban is donating 10% of every purchase to the Children's Center for the Visually Impaired.

Here are the official details if you would like to join me:

Get your yard ready for summer with CCVI!

Another Bloomin' Fundraiser

5 to 8 p.m.
Friday, May 28
Suburban Lawn & Garden
105 and Roe in Overland Park, Kansas

View and purchase new spring bedding plants, trees and shrubs for your yard and garden while enjoying live music, light hor d’oeuvres and beverages. Suburban Lawn & Garden will donate 10% of every purchase to CCVI.

For more information, contact Jennifer Anderson (816) 841-2284 x2016 or janderson@ccvi.org.

Hope to see you there!

Lawn Brown Spots

2010-05-21T10:41:00.006-05:00

I mentioned earlier this week that all the rain may lead to lawn disease when the weather warms up. This weekend Kansas City is supposed to be a toasty 87 degrees. This means we may see a flare up in lawn disease. (Warm nights + moisture = a breeding ground for fungus.)

Brown Patch, the most common Fescue lawn disease, causes thin patches of light brown grass that are roughly circular in shape. Sometimes, the disease skips the circular phase and presents as large, thin, brown areas. To determine if disease is causing your brown spots, look at an individual leaf blade for lesions.

This, my friends, is what the lesions look like.
I know, because this came from the lawn of yours truly.

Ryan Lawn & Tree can take care of your lawn disease. Request a free estimate. (We can also prevent disease.)

Vegetable Garden

2010-05-20T16:04:00.004-05:00

Victoria recently sent in photos of her first vegetable garden. She built raised beds and filled it with rich soil. Many plants were started indoors from seed.

Photo courtesy of Victoria.

I can't wait to see how the garden progresses! If you would like me to feature your lawn and garden projects, send the details to tarapatty at ryanlawn dot com.

Bermuda Lawns Slow Coming Out of Dormancy

2010-05-19T16:16:00.003-05:00

Weather in the Kansas City Metro has been hard on Bermuda lawns. The cold, long winter led to more than normal winter kill, and the cool, wet spring is keeping them from greening up on time.

Winter kill occurs when large areas of grass die off during the winter due to low temperatures, too little precipitation, or excessive foot traffic. It is very common in Kansas City, because we are in the Transition Zone. (This simply means we are on the border of areas where warm-season grasses, like Bermuda, and cool-season grasses, like Fescue, thrive.)

Because temperatures have been milder than usual, and we have had more rainfall than normal, Bermuda lawns have also been slow to break dormancy. This means the grass is still brown, rather than the deep green we're used to seeing this time of year.

Rain and Your Lawn

2010-05-18T13:58:00.004-05:00

Photo from Galyna Andrushko - Fotolia.com

We have been getting a ton of rain in the Kansas City Metro area recently. Initially, I was grateful to skip a day of watering my container plants; then I started to worry they were getting a little too wet.

Containers aside, what does all of this rain mean for our Fescue lawns?

Because the weather is cool and the rain has stopped for now, it may simply mean we get to enjoy our lush, green spring lawns free from drought or heat stress. However, yards with drainage problems or standing water can pose a threat. Waterlogged soil has less oxygen available for plant roots and may lead to wet wilt, a fairly rare condition.

Another possible complication concerns temperatures. If they heat up too soon, it will make our currently wet lawns more susceptible to fungal disease. These diseases can potential kill grass, especially in Fescue lawns planted in the last two years.

For now, though, I think we can safely enjoy the new life that the rain has brought forth. If conditions change, you know I'll keep you posted.

Sick Sycamore

2010-05-14T15:04:00.003-05:00

Tom pruning our Sycamore last spring.

If you have a sycamore tree in your yard that is dropping its leaves, it may be suffering from anthracnose. This is an aesthetic disease, and won't affect the health of your tree. However, as a Sycamore owner, I know first-hand how annoying it is to clean up after these trees, especially when "fall" comes twice a year.

Ryan Lawn & Tree can treat Sycamores in August to lessen the affects of anthracnose in following years. The treatment is good for two years, although you may have some leaf and twig drop the first year.

Ryan Lawn & Tree featured in The Referral Engine

2010-05-13T08:44:00.002-05:00

John Jantsch, author of Duct Tape Marketing, featured Ryan Lawn & Tree in his new book, The Referral Engine.

The book centers on the idea that small businesses can grow almost entirely by referral. The catch? Your company/product/service must BE referable.

Thanks, John, for including Ryan Lawn & Tree in your book!

Thick Lawns Prevent Weeds

2010-05-06T12:35:00.003-05:00

Thick, healthy lawns have fewer weeds. Why is this? The density and health of the grass will out-compete weeds for water and vital nutrients.

To test this idea, find a thick healthy lawn and walk along the driveway and sidewalk. These areas, where the turf is ending and not as thick, may have a weed or two. Now, walk in the lawn - no weeds. Likewise, look at thinner, unfertilized lawns. You will find weeds all over. Compare this to the thick lawn.

Of course, it is possible the thick lawn owner has used something to kill the weeds. However, we all know how fast weeds pop up, so the likelihood that the thick lawn is only weed-free because of weed control is slim.

Do you have thoughts about this? Leave a comment below.

Purple, Spherical Flowers

2010-05-03T15:55:00.002-05:00

I have long admired these Alliums in the boulevard of our home's association. What I did not know, was that these flowers are closely related to onions, and, as such, are referred to as "flowering onions." They come in many varieties and colors, and some are more star-shaped than spherical.

To grow them in your garden, plant the bulbs in the fall. I don't know about you, but I think these would be divine (and unique) in a bouquet.

Pretty Green Lawn

2010-04-30T13:54:00.002-05:00

A RYAN customer in Gardner, KS, sent me this picture of his back lawn:

Can you tell where his lawn ends and his neighbor's begins?

Special thanks to Tyson for sharing this photo. I would love to show off your lawn, too. Send a picture to tara patty at ryan lawn dot com with your city, and a statement about why you love your lawn.

Trees and Power Lines At Odds

2010-04-29T13:56:00.002-05:00

A local news story recently detailed the plight of homeowners in Lenexa whose trees are being removed or transplanted to accommodate overhead power lines. You can read the full article here Lenexa neighbors fight to save trees.

This brings up a common issue - trees and power lines don't mix. Local electric companies, largely for safety reasons, often prune or remove trees that interfere with their lines. At times, trees pruned to avoid coming into contact with power lines can look unsightly.

The best way to prevent these issues altogether is to avoid planting trees near power lines.

Small trees, like crabapples and dogwoods, should be planted at least 20 feet from power lines.
Medium trees, like American Holly and Lacebark Elm should be planted at least 35 feet from a power line.
Large trees like red maples, Ginko, oaks and pines should be planted 45 feet from power lines.

Of course, if the tree is already planted too close to a line, this is not an option. In these cases, it is best to hire a professional tree company to prune the tree regularly to keep it from growing into the line. Arborists you hire will be more sensitive to the aesthetics of the tree than a company hired by the electric company.

Simple Container Planting

2010-04-23T11:25:00.003-05:00

The other day, I was talking to a friend who wanted to plant some containers for her landscape, but didn't know where to start. I let her in on my secret:

Go to a nursery and find containers planted with a combination of plants you like.
Look at the plastic plant identifiers in the pot.
Buy those plants and plant them in a container.
(You can probably take a picture of the nursery's container if you are afraid you will forget.)

That's basically what I did with the container I planted above. It is on our front porch in full shade. I purposefully picked plants with varied colors and textures of foliage, but not a lot of blooms. (You can see one tiny purple bloom on the far right. There are three of these trailing plants in the pot that will flower.) Impatiens work well in the shade if you prefer to put more flowers in your pots.

Don't be intimidated because you think you lack creativity - nurseries, garden magazines and your local newspapers can all give you insight on how to put together a nice display.

"Neon" Grass in Your Lawn

2010-04-21T14:07:00.005-05:00

Poa Annua (Annual Bluegrass) If you look closely, you can compare its color
to the darker grass in the background.

Two types of bluegrass, poa trivialis and poa annua (Annual Bluegrass) will appear in your lawn as neon green patches of grass in the spring. If you have a Fescue lawn, these grasses are generally regarded as weeds.

Annual Bluegrass is an annual. It will take away from the uniform color of your lawn in the spring, but will die during our hot summer. You can apply a preemergent in mid-August to prevent the grass from coming back next year.

Poa trivialis is a perennial. It is more "neon" than the annual version and tends to grow a little faster than the grass in your lawn. Because this grass is perennial, the only sure way to get rid of it is to kill out your lawn in July and reseed. Weigh your tolerance for the plant with the labor intensive project of reseeding to decide if this option is right for you.

*Poa annua and poa trivialis are very similar. The seeds on poa annua alternate, while the seeds on poa trivialis are directly opposite one another.

Tulips

2010-04-16T09:28:00.000-05:00

Tulips won't be around for too much longer, but right now they are beautiful. One of my neighbors has a breathtaking bed of tulips every year (pictured). I love the mixture of colors.

A tip for those of you who are new to tulips: they are technically perennials, but the best blooms come the first year. For a spectacular showing, treat tulips as an annual and plant every year.

Volunteer Trees Are Stubborn

2010-04-15T14:01:00.006-05:00

I went for a walk on Monday to enjoy the nice weather. I was thrilled to see several saucer magnolias in bloom, and several freshly mowed lawns. The rain last week has landscapes green and thriving.

Unfortunately, the rain also encourages the growth of volunteer or "weed" trees. When these pop up in the lawn, you can just mow over them. Eventually, they will stop springing back to life.

Volunteers next to your house, deck or fence line are a little more tricky. Sure, you can cut them down, but that is usually not enough to knock these plants back. Your best bet is to cut the tree as close to the ground as possible, then use a brush control product to keep the plant from reviving. (A little goes a long way.)

Eastern Red Cedars commonly come up as volunteers in our area. This one has been thriving in our side yard for a couple of years. As you can see, they grow fast!

Spring is Back...and so are Allergies.

2010-04-13T12:17:00.004-05:00

My husband and I spent most of Friday night and Saturday outdoors. As Tom was planting his vegetables, I looked up and swirling in the wind were seeds, petals, pollen and other signs that Spring had arrived and was getting down to business.

The next morning, I walked out to my car and it was COVERED in yellow pollen. I am not sure which tree is the culprit, but I am amazed at the amount of pollen it produced.

Now, I know all you allergy sufferers out there are hurting. What do you do to alleviate your allergy symptoms? Leave a comment below or E-mail tara patty at ryan lawn dot com.

Apricot Drift

2010-04-09T15:06:00.004-05:00

I was thumbing through a landscaping magazine today, and noticed this little gem:

Apricot Drift "Meimirrot" Photo from the Conard-Pyle Co.

Drift roses were introduced by Conard-Pyle, the same company that gave us Knock-Out roses. Drift roses are groundcover varieties with a mature size of 2 feet wide and 2 feet tall. "Meimirrot" (pictured) blooms continuously all season long and disease resistance is exceptional. (Low-maintenance roses. Does it get better than that? I certainly don't think so.)

Try these plants along pathways, hillsides or at the front of a border. They are Hardy in USDA Hardiness Zones 5-9.

Are you already envisioning these beauties in your landscape beds? I know I am.

Spring Thunderstorms Can Be Tough On Trees

2010-04-07T15:59:00.005-05:00

We've had a few thunderstorms pass through the area lately. Most of these storms have been accompanied by lots of thunder, lightening, rain and high winds. When it comes to our trees, the high winds are the most damaging.

Thankfully, this branch didn't cause much damage when it fell.
Imagine if the tree had been closer to the house!

Pruning dead or broken limbs out of your trees as soon as you notice them can prevent damage during storms. (We have customers call frequently who have had limbs fall on their cars, houses, driveways and sidewalks.) Removing these limbs in advance of storms gives you control of when and where these limbs fall.

If you are at a loss when it comes to what pruning your trees need to help protect them from storm damage, give Ryan Lawn & Tree a call or visit Trees Are Good to find a certified arborist in your area.

Azalea Blooms

2010-04-06T12:46:00.002-05:00

Five years ago, Tom transplanted an azalea from a property he was working on to our landscape. It just started blooming, and it is gorgeous.

I love how dainty this plant is - the ruffly blooms make it seem even more flirty. It is one of the first shrubs in our landscape to bloom - our yard is slowly coming to life for the growing season. The lilacs are starting to leaf out and the day lilies are starting to make an appearance as well. I may get adventurous this weekend and do some planting. (Usually I wait until after the 15th, but my gut is telling me the danger of frost has passed.)

Prevent Crabgrass Today

2010-04-05T14:10:00.003-05:00

You can avoid this by applying a preemergent to your lawn this spring.

If you time in the next week or two to put down a preemergent, you will be able to radically reduce the crabgrass in your yard this growing season.

At RYAN, use a preemergent + fertilizer in the early spring to help lawns greenup and to prevent annual, grassy weeds like crabgrass and foxtail. Your local garden center will have a product to fill this bill, or, you can request a free estimate from RYAN.

If you have seeded any areas this spring, skip the preemergent in those places.

About Those Vegetables...

2010-04-01T13:03:00.004-05:00

A friend of mine asked if Tom always starts his garden vegetables indoors - no. He usually sows them directly into the garden. I am not sure if he was overly-anxious to get started or just wanted to try something new. Either way, the plants are coming along nicely.

FINALLY, this week my hyacinths and daffodils bloomed. Yesterday was warm and sunny - euphoria set in.

Hyacinths smell heavenly, in case you didn't know.

Spot a Red Truck

2010-03-29T09:29:00.005-05:00

If you see a red Ryan Lawn & Tree truck parked anywhere in the Kansas City Metro today, ask the driver if he still has his Sheridan's Frozen Custard $5 gift card. Spring took so long to get here, that we are taking today to celebrate warmer weather. Each RYAN Route Manager has one gift card to give to the first person who asks. Good Luck!

Berry Goodness

2010-03-26T16:06:00.002-05:00

I am planning on planting some more strawberries under the Sycamore tree this year. I planted a few strawberries several years ago and they have lived through frost, snow and drought. I have never eaten a strawberry from my plants. I plant them mostly because my Mom always plants them in a big barrel planter, and when I look at them in bloom or with fruit hanging heavy, I think of my Mom.

What plants have you added to your landscape for sentimental reasons? Did you plant a tree to celebrate your first born, or have you transplanted some bulbs from a neighbor? I would love to hear your story. E-mail me at tarapatty at ryanlawn dot com or leave a comment below.

Veggie Tales

2010-03-24T21:49:00.002-05:00

My husband started his vegetable garden indoors this year. It has been fun to watch tiny seeds planted a few weeks ago sprout and grow.

I can't wait to enjoy the fruits of his labor this summer. Fresh vegetables are something I can easily get behind.

Right Plant, Right Place

2010-03-18T12:44:00.000-05:00

Flowers (annuals and perennials) can add the "wow" factor to your landscape. In the front yard, they can help your home feel friendly and warm, in the back yard, they provide a pretty and fragrant background for outdoor parties.

Follow these simple rules to make the biggest impression with your flowers:

Put a group of flowers by the front door.
Use large pots by the front steps or patio.
Cluster flowers instead of sprinkling them thinly across an area.
Choose flower colors that will compliment and enhance the color of your house.
Place flowers in the backyard where they can easily be seen from inside your house.

Brown Spots in Bermuda Lawns?

2010-03-17T12:33:00.000-05:00

(This one is for those of you who prefer warm season grasses.)

Every spring, some Bermuda lawns (especially those planted with hybrid varieties) are dotted with brown areas. This is the result of Spring Dead Spot (SDS).

Young Bermuda lawns (less than 3 years) have some resistance to the condition, and these lawns are affected much less than older, established lawns.

Even though symptoms of SDS show up in the spring, the disease starts in the fall when cool, wet conditions are common. The brown spots are often the size of dinner plates, but will run together resulting in large, irregular dead areas.

What can you do?
It is difficult to control spring dead spot, although keeping thatch in check through regular aerations may aid in prevention.

Improper Planting Causes Girdling Roots

2010-03-16T12:00:00.000-05:00

Yesterday, we discussed proper tree planting techniques. I also posed a question about this picture:

What is going on here? The answer is a Girdling Root. When trees are planted too deep, it is common for one root (or roots) to wrap around the trunk of the tree. As the root grows, it slowly girdles the tree, causing decline.

You may notice a girdling root because it causes leaves to drop from the tree at odd time. Girdling roots can also cause on side of the trunk to be flat, like in the picture below:

After big storms, have you seen giant trees that have simply fallen over? Many times this is because the fallen tree had been living with a girdling root.

What do you do if you think you have a tree with a girdling root? Call an ISA Certified Arborist. (We have almost 20 at Ryan Lawn & Tree.) Depending on the age and size of the tree, it may be possible to reverse the damage done by the offending root.

Spring is a Great Time to Plant Trees & Shrubs

2010-03-15T11:49:00.001-05:00

Improper planting caused this common tree problem.
Do you know what it is? Read tomorrow for the answer.

As you would expect, spring is a wonderful time to add new trees and shrubs to your landscape. What you may not know, is improper planting is one of the biggest reasons urban trees fail.

If you are considering planting a tree, follow these steps to ensure improper planting does not cause you trouble down the road:

Choose a quality specimen from the nursery. The main root originating from the trunk should be no more than 1inch below the soil line. The root ball should be moist.
Measure the root ball height from ground to the first (top) root. This is the planting depth. Dig the hole 3 times the root ball width. This will loosen the soil for faster rooting. Leave the sides of the hole rough, not smooth.
Place the tree in the center of the planting hole and recheck planting depth. Adjust as needed. Make sure the tree is straight from 2-3 directions. Remove as much burlap, wire, twine as possible.
Stake newly planted trees only in areas where high winds are common. Remove any stake within 8-12 months.
Fertilize your trees after planting. If you have questions, contact an arborist at Ryan Lawn & Tree

Giving Turfgrass Extra Space

2010-03-12T11:41:00.003-06:00

We've discussed aerating before, but it is the time of year for questions about aerating to start popping up.

Why Aerate?
In short, aerating opens up soil for better air and nutrient movement.

What is an Aeration?
During an aeration, a machine pulls cores from the lawn and deposits them on top of the soil. (These cores break down readily, so there is no reason to rake.)

Should you Aerate?
Lawns with heavy clay soil are especially susceptible to compaction and should be aerated on a regular schedule. Likewise, if you cut a square in the lawn at least 6 inches deep, and the roots of your grass only extend 1-2 inches, it is time to aerate.

When should you Aerate?
Bluegrass and Fescue lawns are aerated in the early spring or in the fall. Bermuda and Zoysia lawns are aerated from late May to July. (Basically, the best time to aerate is when the grass is actively growing.)

Dirt "Tunnels" in Your Lawn?

2010-03-09T13:40:00.004-06:00

A Ryan Lawn & Tree turf manager points out vole damage in Kansas City.

We have gotten quite a few calls from homeowners in the area who have bare "tunnels" in their lawns.

Most likely, this is vole damage. Voles, closely related to field mice, cause more damage in winters where there is snow on the ground a lot of the time (we've discussed the snow that never seemed to end this year).

During these chilly, wet winters, the voles create meandering tunnels in the snow, on top of the lawn. Because it takes a lot of energy to build these snow tunnels, the voles run the same path over, and over, and over. As a result, they wear a path in the lawn and kill the grass.

Take a look around the hard surfaces in your landscape - next to a sidewalk or driveway. Voles will make their nest beneath these surfaces. If you want to rid yourself of these pests, stick a bait station under your driveway in the vole nest (if you can find it). (Be careful, these bait stations can be harmful to pets.)

If you have some bluegrass in your lawn, the bare areas should fill in this April or May. You can also seed this bare spots sometime in the next few weeks.

*The difference between mole and vole damage? Moles actually tunnel beneath the grass creating raised mounds. Voles travel on top of the grass, creating worn paths.

Growing as a Gardener

2010-03-08T09:46:00.000-06:00

At the Garden Show, many displays featured different varieties of plants acting as a border for another variety. I am just not there in my gardening repertoire. I tend to plant single varieties in mass and throw in some odd experimentation throughout the landscape.

However, after seeing some of the great borders, I realize I have stunted my ability to create stunning displays around my home.

This arrangement clearly is more dramatic and interesting than just planting pansies in a monoculture.

My gardening goal for the next growing season: pair plants together to add more depth to my planting.

Puzzling

2010-03-05T09:41:00.000-06:00

Why have I never planted crocus? They are SO pretty, and they are early bloomers. Who wouldn't want an early, purple reminder that spring is coming?

Crocus should be planted in the fall for blooming the following spring. These babies will start to grow during the first warm spell in late winter or spring. Their early blooms in white, yellow, blue(purple), and light orange flowers can even be forced indoors. These small plants grow just 3-4 inches tall.

Perfect for Hot Summers

2010-03-04T09:31:00.000-06:00

I first encountered strawflowers in my Grandma's garden. You can tell right away that their texture is different than most flowers. She planted a pink variety, at the Garden Show, there were some dainty yellow strawflowers that just "popped" against the green foliage.

Even in this picture, you want to reach out and touch the petals to see how they feel. (They are dry and rigid - very inline with their name.) The best part about strawflowers? They thrive in long, hot summers and will bloom from late spring until fall. I don't always like yellow flowers, luckily you have several options with strawflowers including light and dark pink, bronze, purple and white in addition to a few yellow shades.

Treat strawflowers as an annual in our area. Once temperatures start to drop, they will start to struggle.

L.O.V.E.

2010-03-03T09:08:00.000-06:00

I have thought about writing about Fuchsia before - it is soooo pretty and delicate. It reminds me of fairies and butterflies and the ethereal. I spied some at the Garden Show looking glorious:

Fuchsia are native to South America with fewer species indigenous to Central America and Mexico. They are also prolific in New Zealand to Tahiti (Tahiti - warm, sunny, home of Fuchsia!).

Technically, you can TRY to grow them in the Kansas City area. The transition zone is going to be difficult to reckon with, however. Plant them in containers on your patio and then be prepared to work. Fuchsias should be fertilized every two weeks and need adequate water (but not too much - be careful of root rot!). They are going to struggle when temperatures are above 80 degrees. And you need to take them inside for the winter.

There is no way at this point in my gardening life that I can keep up with this rigorous schedule. Maybe you all are a little more advanced? After all, someone out there wrote an article calling the care of this persnickety plant "Easy."

Any ideas for a similarly ethereal, fairy-plant that doesn't take quite so much maintenance? I am all ears.

A Taste of What's To Come

2010-03-02T08:49:00.004-06:00

Last weekend, I ventured down to the Johnson County Home & Garden Show. While I was there, I passed by Family Tree Nursery's display. (It was breathtaking.) Luckily, Ryan Lawn & Tree had a booth across from the nursery, so we got to smell spring all weekend long.

Family Tree's display.

There is so much going on here - but it works. I mean, I think an actual landscape like this would be a nightmare for me - too much maintenance. I thoroughly enjoyed looking through all the nooks and crannies to see what delights were awaiting.

I'll leave you with a shot of our guys in action (and the promise of more spring shots the rest of the week):

Tom DePaepe, Mike McGillicuddy and Jason Trent.
(Mike and Jason are talking to a client, I just didn't get him in the shot.)

Questions, Comments, Tips?

2010-02-24T15:28:00.004-06:00

As we get geared up for spring and lawn season, I wanted to remind you all that I welcome your questions, comments, tips and tricks regarding all things lawn, tree, gardening, etc.

I would love to hear some of your thoughts on these subjects. Moreover, I would LOVE to see pictures of what you are doing. Remember Rachel's backyard improvement project?

I think we can all benefit from hearing from the rest of the group (and seeing your triumphs!).

You may not believe me...

2010-02-23T15:01:00.004-06:00

But, the time to activate your irrigation system is just around the corner. Seriously. I mean, there is STILL snow on the ground, but companies like Ryan Lawn & Tree typically start activating systems around the middle of March.

If you have an above-ground backflow, you will want to wait to activate your system in April, after the danger of a late freeze has passed.

Consider this the task that will drag spring out from its hiding place kicking and screaming. If we all plan on spring showing up soon, surely we can will it to happen, right?

'Tis the season for Snow Mold

2010-02-15T08:34:00.005-06:00

With Gary Lezak ushering in 2010 with plenty of snow in the Kansas City area, we have been presented conditions for a disease called Gray Snow Mold on cool-season lawns. Typically, our winters are not as conducive for this disease, but this year seems to be an exception and we have received plenty of calls of concern. As areas of snow cover begin to melt, you may notice some tan, matted areas on your lawn, often times with an oily appearance. These spots are typically circular in shape and about 6-12" in diameter.

Fortunately, this disease is normally an aesthetic problem on mature stands of grass, however, immature seedlings may be killed, making reseeding necessary. To aid in recovery of mature stands, rake the affected areas and remove the debris. Occasionally seeding may be required here as well. I have attached a link from Penn State University with a slide show of pictures that you can reference, and an additional link from Purdue University with an in depth article about the disease if you would like to know more.

If you think you may have the disease and would like an additional opinion, please call your Ryan Pro today.

Josh Chabon
Turf Manager
Ryan Lawn and Tree

Bug Barrier

2010-02-09T15:51:00.003-06:00

Today's post is a little different than normal. I usually like to focus on gardening and lawn care in a way that doesn't explicitly promote Ryan Lawn & Tree's services.

Today I want to share with you an AWESOME new service you can get from RYAN. The technical name is "Perimeter Pest Control," but that is a mouthful, so we'll just call it what it is: a Bug Barrier.

RYAN's Bug Barrier will drastically reduce the number of annoying insects in your home. By treating around the perimeter of your home, we can keep ants, millipedes, centipedes and to some degree, spiders, out of your house. (Bugs already in your house won't be affected.)

I am not very tolerant of bugs in my house (sorry, Grandma!). Needless to say, I am a BIG fan of this program. If you are intrigued, visit Ryan Lawn & Tree to request an estimate.

Spot of Spring

2010-02-08T21:17:00.003-06:00

We are still dealing with snow on a semi-regular basis, however, I did have a bright spot of spring on Sunday when I ordered a flat of these:

Photo from Fowler's Nursery

Green leaf begonias with white flowers. If you read Friday's post, you will have some idea of my plants for these little jewels. I can't wait to dig in and experiment again this spring.

Caladiums, Part Two?

2010-02-05T11:21:00.003-06:00

These gems are planted beneath my Sycamore tree. I love how the shade from the tree plays up the white in the leaves.

I swear I have blogged about caladiums before, but my handy search tool didn't return any results...so, below is my tribute to caladiums, one of my favorites (perhaps for the second time):

If you are looking for plants to spice up your shady areas, consider caladiums.

Caladiums are often called elephant ears and have large, variegated leaves. They come in several varieties offering a wide variety of colors and sizes. Plan to buy the corms in March to take advantage of a greater selection early in the season. (There's nothing worse than being stuck with the varieties no one else wanted, unless you happen to love those varieties - then maybe you can get them on sale.)

Caladiums should be planted some time in April, once temperatures are consistently warm and the danger of frost has passed.

Try pairing them in mass with white Begonias. The shade will help the white blooms "pop" and create a great compliment to the foliage.

Plant These Ornamental Grasses

2010-02-03T14:00:00.006-06:00

A few weeks ago (okay, almost a month ago), I wrote about ornamental grasses in the winter landscape. Some of you wanted to know more about these plants. Today, I present you with some of my favorite ornamental grasses.

Feather Reed Grass, Photo from Colorado State University Extension

Feather Reed Grass
Feather Reed Grass grows in very vertical clumps. The plant blooms in June, and within a few weeks the seed heads turn golden. They retain this color throughout the rest of the growing season.

Carex, Photo from University of Illinois Extension

Carex
This lower growing ornamental grass (though not actually a grass, these plants are commonly grouped with ornamental grasses) looks great when planted in clumps in the shade or at the front of borders. Carex varieties will need ample water.

If you want to see more ornamental grasses in action, the K-State Research and Extension Center in Olathe, KS has several.

Ornamental Grasses

2010-01-07T12:49:00.000-06:00

Waiting to cut back ornamental grasses until after winter can really add interest to your landscape. These grasses are outside our office.

If you cut your grasses back in the fall in 2009, consider waiting next year.

Snow, Snow and More Snow

2010-01-06T12:27:00.004-06:00

All we've seen around the Midwest lately is WHITE. More snow is expected today. Winter is entrenched.

Is it Poisonous?

2009-12-22T12:46:00.008-06:00

Many holiday plants are toxic...but do you know which ones? Read on to learn more about potentially poisonous plants.

Poinsettia:

Photo from Poinsettia Pictures

Contrary to popular belief poinsettias ARE NOT considered dangerous. In the 1970s, scientists determined that concerns over the plant were unfounded.

Holly:

The berries of these pretty plants, more often found outside than in, can be toxic if ingested. Eating 20 berries can be fatal to a child.

Mistletoe:

Photo from the US Forest Service

This romantic plant has a dark side. The entire plant is poisonous if eaten. Kind of gives a whole new meaning to 'Love Bites'.

Bittersweet:

Photo from Brandeis University

Found on the prairie (and currently in my living room) bittersweet's dainty orange berries are a designer's dream. Be cautious, however, as these bountiful berries can cause a reduced heart rate, sedation and headaches.

Looking for a non-poisonous alternative?
Christmas Cactus is completely harmless.

Photo from Texas A&M.

Poinsettia Tutorial

2009-12-18T09:27:00.001-06:00

Photo from Iowa State Extension

I love poinsettias. (Probably because if it's red, I think I have to have it.) I think I have sent more than one to a premature death, unfortunately. However, with a few tips and tricks you and I can both keep our plants alive and thriving. (If we are really lucky, we may even coax it into re-blooming.)

To start, choose a plant with thoroughly colored bracts ("leaves" in laymen terms).
Once you get your plant home, place it in an area that will get indirect sunlight at least 6 hours a day.
Make sure the plant is not near excessive heat or a draft. Poinsettias will suffer at temperatures of 50 degrees or below.
Be careful not to over water your Poinsettia. Standing water that doesn't drain is a no-no.
Fertilize your plant after the blooming cycle is over.

How to Re-Bloom your Poinsettia
Once the leaves start to loose their appeal, don't throw the plant out, give re-blooming a try.

Cut the plant back to 8 inches in height in late March or early April.
Continue watering as normal.
Fertilize once.

By May, you will notice some serious growth.

Once the days are warm and nighttime temperatures are above 55 degrees, move the plant outside. Continue to fertilize every 2-3 weeks.
Additional pruning may be necessary to keep the plant from getting leggy. Prune as necessary, but DON'T prune after September 1.
Starting October 1, keep the plant in total darkness for 14 hours each night. (The plant will still need 6-8 hours of bright sunlight a day.)

With patience, and a little luck, the plant should be back in bloom by next Christmas.

Flower Variety Spotlight

2009-12-17T09:18:00.003-06:00

Photo from Magnolia Gardens Nursery

Anything with the word "profusion" in its name is a plant for me. Take the new Profusion Zinnia from Sakata Seed America. Flowers can grow up to 12 inches and spread up to 24 inches.

Plants in the series have won the All-America Selections' God Medal three times for white, orange and cherry varieties.

Mulch Roses

2009-12-16T08:30:00.003-06:00

If you have any type of rose bush (including knock outs), mulch them after Christmas to help them get through the winter.

Mound 6-12 inches of mulch around the crown of the plant, to protect the roots and the graft union where the rose species you are growing is attached to a hardy root stock. (Don't try to use the soil around the rose bush as mulch. Moving it could expose or disturb the roots.)

The mulch will help keep the soil temperature constant, protecting the plant from heaving out of the ground due to freeze and thaw cycles.

My Christmas Tree

2009-12-14T09:26:00.004-06:00

We went with a Fraser Fir:

Send me pictures of your decorated tree! tara patty at ryan lawn dot com.

Crown Reduction on Bradford Pears

2009-12-09T14:39:00.002-06:00

Bradford Pears are notoriously weak-wooded trees. High winds can split the trees in half easily, and with winter storms around the corner, prized pears should be pruned to avoid this fate.

Ryan Lawn & Tree recommends crown reductions to keep pears in check. This involves drastically reducing the canopy weight of the tree so that it is not so top heavy. We pruned the Bradford Pear above this fall. You can definitely tell it has been pruned, but it looks great and should be good to go this winter.

Winter Storm Coming...

2009-12-08T14:39:00.003-06:00

Or so I hear on the news. So far, we haven't been hit very hard. I went out to my car late this morning to get some change and it was wet, but not icy.

If we do get some major snowfall tonight and tomorrow, you may salt your driveway. If you decide to use deicing products, only use as much as you need. Over applying can cause damage to your lawn and ornamentals.

Douglas Fir

2009-12-07T15:16:00.003-06:00

Photo from Taylors Trees

Larry Ryan pointed out that I forgot a species during my Christmas Tree series. He was talking about Douglas Fir, a species native to the west coast.

The branches are spreading and drooping in its natural shape, and have dark green to blue green needles. (Most of the Douglas Firs on the lots that are conical have been pruned that way...this may result in a compact tree that is more difficult to decorate.)

You can buy Douglas Firs that haven't been pruned, if you prefer. Heartland Nursery has them in stock.

Christmas Tree Review
Fraser Fir
Scotch Pine
Eastern Red Cedar
Blue Spruce
White Pine

New Heuchera

2009-12-03T15:19:00.003-06:00

Photo from Smith's Gardens, Inc

It is COLD outside today. Luckily, I received a magazine yesterday that highlighted some new cultivars that will be available this spring, so I was warm at heart.

One of my favorites: Autumn Leaves Heuchera from Terra Nova Nurseries.

Autumn Leaves is a four-season plant with vibrant red leaves. The leaves gradually change through the season, finishing off with dark red leaves in the fall. The plant will grow in sun or shade, but prefers well-drained soils. Try it for accent or contrast in mixed beds.

Seed Bombs?

2009-12-01T16:07:00.004-06:00

Photo from Jayson Home & Garden

I came across these on a design website this afternoon - I have to admit, I was intrigued. I have never heard of such a thing.

I did a quick Google search which, to my horror (delight), revealed the underbelly of the gardening scene. Apparently Guerrilla Gardening is all the rage in bustling metropolises on the coasts (read - New York and L.A.)

In order to be a rouge gardener, you need seed bombs (or seed grenades, as they are sometimes called). You take the "bomb" which is made of a compressed ball of soil containing live vegetation and drop (or throw, with sound effects) them into neglected or vacant spaces that - gasp - don't belong to you. Guerrilla gardeners use these bombs to beautify their environments in secret.

(Some guerrilla gardeners wake up before dawn to plant abandoned expanses of earth the old fashioned way. They may continue to visit the plot to weed and maintain their crop.)

Who says gardening can't be edgy?

Learn more about the movement at guerrillagardening.org.

Robotic Gutter Cleaner?

2009-11-30T12:19:00.004-06:00

Money Magazine featured this product in its latest issue: A robot that cleans your gutters. Climb a ladder and insert the robot, then use your remote control to clean dirt, leaves and sludge out of the gutter. You can watch a video of the robot in action here.

Is it a gimmick, or does it really work?

You can read the Consumer Reports review here. I may have to wait for robot 2.0, but if you have patience and get a rush from new technology, you may beg to differ.

Have any of you tried this product? It is manufactured by iRobot.

Christmas Trees Day 4 - Colorado Blue Spruce

2009-11-27T08:00:00.000-06:00

I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving! Are you headed out to get your Christmas Tree? This week I am showcasing a few of the favorites.

Today's variety is the Colorado Blue Spruce, Christmas Tree of the Presidents (seriously, one was planted in 1978 as the official living White House Lawn Christmas tree). Because they can be bought balled and burlapped, and then planted after the holidays, Blue Spruce have enjoyed an increase in popularity as a Christmas tree species.

Photo from Balsam Creek Lane Tree Farm

The tree is symmetrical with attractive dark green to powdery blue foliage. (The needles take on a silver hue depending on the tree.) Needle retention is among the best for the spruces. Once planted, blue spruces are slow growing, though they are long lived.

BONUS tree.

Photo from Delaware Christmas Tree Growers Association

I would be remiss if I did not tell you Tom's favorite tree (and, as a result, the species we decorate from year to year) - the Eastern White Pine. White Pine needles are long, soft and range in color from bluish-green to silvery green. Needle retention is good to excellent, but the trees' flexible branches make heavy ornaments a no-go. The tree has little to no aroma, which may result in fewer allergy problems for humans. (They are very lovely.)

Frasir Fir
Scotch Pine
Eastern Redcedar

Christmas Trees Day 3 - Eastern Red Cedar

2009-11-26T08:00:00.000-06:00

Happy Thanksgiving! Now that the turkey has been carved, Christmas tree sales will be ramping up. If you are planning on decorating a live tree this year, there are many varieties available for purchase. I am showcasing a few this week. Today's variety is the Eastern Redcedar.

Photo from Eastern NC Christmas Tree Growers' Association

The Eastern Redcedar is not a true cedar, but rather a juniper. The branches of young trees are compact and form a pyramidal crown. The fragrant leaves are a dark shiny green, although sharp and prickly.

Due to their natural, conical shape and ready supply, Eastern Redcedars were the most popular Christmas tree in the South prior to the availability of plantation grown Christmas trees. Redcedars remain a regional favorite in the South today, although they are mainly available only at cut and carry tree farms.

Fraser Fir
Scotch Pine

Christmas Trees Day 2 - Scotch (Scots) Pine

2009-11-25T08:00:00.003-06:00

Thanksgiving is upon us, which means Christmas tree sales will be ramping up in the near future. If you are planning on decorating a live tree this year, there are many varieties available for purchase. This week I am showcasing a few of the favorites.

Photo from Mathisen Tree Farms

Scotch Pines are native to Asia and Europe and were brought to North America by European settlers. They have been cultivated in the eastern United States and Canada. The tree can grow at many different elevations under many different conditions and as a result has been widely planted. (The trees do not perform as well in North America as they do in their native habitats, however.)

Scotch Pines have dark green foliage and stiff branches, making them ideal for both light and heavy ornaments. The species boasts excellent needle retention, even when dry and has no problem holding its needles for the 3-4 week Christmas cycle. It is probably the most commonly used Christmas Tree in the United States.

Fraser Fir

Christmas Trees Day 1 - Fraser Fir

2009-11-24T14:22:00.004-06:00

Thanksgiving is Thursday, which means Christmas tree sales will be ramping up in the near future. If you are planning on decorating a live* tree this year, there are many varieties available for purchase. I will spend the rest of the week showcasing a few.

The most popular variety is the Fraser Fir. This jewel of the southern Appalachian Mountains is named for John Fraser (1750-1811), a Scot botanist who explored the area in the late 18th century. The trees closely resemble Balsam Firs, although they grow in distinct geographical areas that do not overlap - this leads arborists to believe they were once a single species.

Photo from Green Acres

Fraser Firs are uniformly pyramidal and have flattened, dark green needles. These characteristics, combined with the Fraser's compact form, pleasant scent and ship-ability make it the most popular Christmas tree species. (It requires 7-10 years in the field to produce a 6-7 foot tree.) The tree has excellent needle retention.

*The trees are not actually alive, so why do we refer to them as "live" trees?

Acorn Production Varies From Year to Year

2009-11-23T16:06:00.004-06:00

Have acorns been raining down from your Oak tree this year? I was visiting a friend's house the other day, and acorns seemed to be raining down from their tree. Every few seconds you could hear one drop.

Acorn crops are not constant. One year, like this one for my friend, you may have a bumper crop with more acorns than you can handle. Other years, you may have a difficult time finding any acorns.

The factors determining how many acorns are produced in a given year are not completely understood. Weather at the time of flowering is likely an important factor, however, there may also be internal systems in place that dictate how many acorns develop from year to year. For instance, following a lite year, there may be a heavier year, because the tree had extra energy to expend in the second year.

Whatever the reasons one thing is for sure, if you felt like you had an overabundance of acorns this year (or not enough), next year will surely be different.

2009 Fall Color = Spectacular

2009-11-20T12:55:00.000-06:00

The drama of fall leaf color plays out as, well, a drama. Mother Nature can giveth and taketh away when it comes to fall leaf displays. Too wet, too dry, too hot, too cold? All of these factors come into play when you are talking about leaf changes.

This year, M.N. dazzled us. That's right, I said it, dazzled.

Were you as impressed?

Dusty Miller

2009-11-19T12:47:00.002-06:00

This plant is nearing the end of its existence, but how intriguing is that foliage?

Dusty Miller is a great plant to grow for foliage. It will grow well into the fall, and I think it would look great paired with succulents or pastel annuals.

Ornamental Cabbage

2009-11-18T14:48:00.002-06:00

LOVE it. Especially the pink/magenta center. And how it starts hum drum green on the outside and gradually gets more interesting as you move in. Who knew cabbage could have so much depth?

Snow is Falling

2009-11-16T13:26:00.005-06:00

Snow is falling across Kansas today. What better time to celebrate Hollies - their bright red berries and dark green, waxy foliage looks stunning this time of year.

I am sure an artsy photographer would have done the plant more justice...but hopefully you get the idea.

While we are on the subject of "artsy" do any of you have plans for nature-inspired holiday decorations? E-mail your plans to tara patty at ryan lawn dot com.

Need ideas? Check out these birch bark vases, sweet gum ball place cards, and maple leaf "plates" (sprigs from a festive tree, pressed beneath a clear, glass plate).

Mow Fescue and Bluegrass short at Thanksgiving

2009-11-11T20:32:00.003-06:00

Photo from Flickr

If you have a Fescue or Bluegrass lawn, be sure to mow it short (1 1/2 - 2 inches) around Thanksgiving. If it is still growing, mow it again before Christmas so that it overwinters at 1 1/2 - 2 inches.

These mowings ensure the lawn overwinters well.

Concerns about Mulch from Treated Trees

2009-11-11T14:05:00.007-06:00

We use a lot of mulch at our house.

Mulch is definitely an added benefit to any landscape, but there are some uncertainties when it comes to knowing what mulch to use.

For instance: Is it okay to use mulch that is made from a tree that has been treated to protect it from disease or pest infestations?

The answer is yes. Plant protection products today are very selective. Your plants will not be harmed by coming into contact with mulch from a tree that may have been treated. (Furthermore, herbicides, which have the most potential to kill or harm plants, are not used on trees.)

Need A Gift for the Gardener in Your Life?

2009-11-10T15:02:00.006-06:00

The holidays have officially started in Kansas City. (Christmas music has been airing on the radio since November 1. Are we the only city that does this???)

As such, I wanted to point you all to Etsy. A web-site of mostly homemade goods made by artisans across the globe. They have several gifts a gardener will love.

How about 10 seed flats? Easy to assemble and reusable from year to year.

Available at andrewsreclaimed

Not into starting plants from seed? Why not order one of these cute totes to carry your gardening tools from pot to pot. Pins + Paper is currently shipping in the U.S. for free. And for purchasing a project tote - a free gift. (Stocking Stuffer?)

From Pins + Paper

Of course, we all know this is what I would find under the tree:

From Rusty Rooster Fabrication & Design

Planning Your Spring Garden?

2009-11-06T15:03:00.006-06:00

Scaevola 'Whirlwind Blue', a Prairie Star Selection
Photo from Cornell University

If you are already thinking about what to plant in your garden next year, head on over the the Prairie Star Flowers site for recommendations about the best plants to grow in our area.

From the Prairie Star site:

"The Prairie Star collection consists of annual flowers of great vigor and spectacular bloom throughout the entire summer growing season. To be included in the Prairie Star list an annual flower must perform at the highest level for a minimum of two years in the university bedding plant field research trials conducted by K-State scientist, Dr. Alan Stevens. Prairie Star annuals have the vigor to grow like crazy and bloom like crazy under lazy gardener care. It is the “WOW look at those flowers” list."

The list is extensive and varied. It's well worth the time it takes to go down the list.

Leeks, Yes Please

2009-11-05T13:31:00.004-06:00

Photo from Flickr

I admit, sometimes I read through recipes and I am not familiar with some of the ingredients. I had heard of leeks before, of course, but had no idea how they tasted. What to do but pick some up at the supermarket and give them a try?

I picked up a few and brought them home. Luckily the recipe I was using gave a good description of how to prepare them. Cut the leafy top off, cut the remaining stock in half lengthwise, and then slice in 1/2 inch pieces. Easy enough. They smell similar to an onion, and when sliced they kind of fall apart. (The "stalk" is really tightly wound leaves, when sliced, these leaves separate.)

Leeks are big in Britain, and are a fairly hardy vegetable to grow as they have little to no pest or disease issues. However, they are cool-season crop and will take a lot of water and TLC to grow through one of our hot summers. For more information on growing leeks, click here.

My first attempt was a leek and bacon creamy risotto. It was a lot of work. And probably would have been very enjoyable, had I not substituted pork bacon for the much-less-flavorful turkey bacon.

Last night, I made a gnocchi casserole. I sauteed three leeks prepared as above, boiled the gnocchi and made a cheese sauce with milk, flour, a little butter and fontina and asiago cheese. The final step is to mix all the ingredients in a casserole dish and broil for 3-4 minutes. Then top with prosciutto. This was much better.

I will be cooking with leeks much more in the future. What new ingredients are you using in your kitchen?

Sea Oats

2009-11-03T12:44:00.004-06:00

We have talked about turfgrasses and erosion before, but two weekends ago I was on the Gulf Coast and was able to witness this in practice one again.

Along the Gulf Coast a simple but important grass grows - Sea Oats. Sea Oats can tolerate the salty spray from the ocean and they have dense root systems. This makes them perfect for preventing erosion on beaches. The grass grows mostly on sand dunes and is a protected species in some areas. In fact, the sea oats we saw were completely fenced off and there were warning signs cautioning visitors against disturbing the plants.

All of that, for a Monocot.

And We're Back

2009-11-02T22:23:00.004-06:00

Sorry for the delay of game, folks. I got a nasty bug last week and was down for the count. Now that I am back among the living, I would love to share some lawn and gardening tips with you.

Over the weekend, my husband raked the leaves at least three times. There are SO MANY and they just keep falling. For all of you who are in the same boat, keep with it. If you get tired of raking and bagging, you can always cheat a little at the end and mow over them. Just don't leave them on the grass, because this is a problem.

You can do it!

P.S. Haven't the trees been beautiful this year?!

Autumn Enchantments

2009-10-23T08:00:00.002-05:00

I just can't get over this season - it is one of my favorites. How can you not love the changing, breathtaking scenery?

These are some of the more beautiful trees in my neighborhood. (Unfortunately, the Sycamore in the front yard is not a bastion of fall color. Boo.)

This Maple is on the boulevard closest to our house. The HOA planted it at some point, and it was one of the first trees in the neighborhood to show off its beautiful foliage.

This golden hued tree is in my neighbor's backyard. You can just see it from the windows in our house, so I get to enjoy it despite its location outside my own landscape.

Is there a tree in your neighborhood that you have been enjoying lately? E-mail it to tara patty at ryan lawn dot com.

Dead Limbs in Your Trees?

2009-10-22T07:00:00.000-05:00

If it has been awhile since you have had your trees pruned, have a professional arborist out to look them over before winter.

An arborist can recommend pruning to keep your home safe from falling and/or breaking limbs during winter storms.

When it comes to large tree pruning, it is better to be proactive than to react to an emergency down the line.

Visit Trees Are Good to find a certified arborist in your area. You can also request an estimate from Ryan Lawn & Tree.

Leaves Falling Down

2009-10-21T19:37:00.004-05:00

Leaves are starting to fall and gather on our lawns - don't forget to rake them up to protect your grass (allowing leaves to sit in piles on the grass will smother the grass causing portions to die out).

If you are hitting a dead end about how to make the project go faster, try this - rake the leaves onto a tarp and THEN bag or mulch them.

Do any of you have leaf-raking tips? Send them to tara patty at ryan lawn dot com.

Pumpkin Patch

2009-10-19T08:00:00.000-05:00

Halloween is coming up in a few weeks - the weather sure feels about right. Over the weekend I ventured over to a pumpkin patch to pick out my pumpkins for the big day.

One of my pumpkins was warty, like the one pictured above. The variety is called "Knucklehead" according the helpful patch personnel. I think it has character. You do have to be careful not knock the warts off, however.

In honor of pumpkins, I decided to make some pumpkin dip this weekend. I mixed about a cup of canned pumpkin with a block of cream cheese and a half a cup of brown sugar. Then, I added 2 teaspoons of maple syrup, some cinnamon, nutmeg and a little vanilla. My friend Lauren recommended it to use as a dip for apples. I thought it was quite tasty with graham crackers as well. FALL IS HERE!

Shrub Pruning How To Day 3

2009-10-14T20:06:00.005-05:00

Finally, prune for height. Prune top growth by cutting the stem back to a leaflet or stem. (This prevents “stubs” which make the plant look funny.) The goal is for the top growth to be pruned to essentially the same height. Step back frequently to make sure the shrub looks the way you want it.

The first shrub you prune may not look perfect, but after two or three pruning cycles, you will get the hang of it. Hand pruning may be more tedious than the hedge pruners we talked about, but the overall result and health of the plant will be much improved by taking a little extra time to do the job right.

Day 1 Day 2

Shrub Pruning How To Day 2

2009-10-13T14:47:00.003-05:00

The first step to pruning is to evaluate the shrub. Are you pruning it just because it is getting too big for the space, or do you have other concerns (unhealthy stems, thick, crowded growth at the base)?

The first cuts are to remove any dead branches. Cut these at the point where they are attached to the rest of the plant. Next, prune branches that are too close to the ground (any that are laying on or touching the ground). Again, prune these where they attach to the rest of the shrub, deep in the plant. Also remove any irregular branches.

Take a step back and see how the shrub looks at this point. Remember, a properly pruned shrub is one you can’t tell you’ve pruned.

Day 1

Shrub Pruning How To Day 1

2009-10-12T16:55:00.003-05:00

Photo from Mid City Nursery

This week, I thought I would go over some shrub pruning tips. Pruning can be an art – it takes a lot and time and effort to prune a plant in to a chess piece or loveable animal – but for us mere mortals, a few basic steps in the right direction is all we need.

Let’s start with shrub pruning. Shrubs, usually, are pruned more often than large trees and, with a few guidelines; most homeowners will learn the knack without much effort. Bear in mind, when shrubs are pruned well, they look like they haven’t been pruned at all.

You won’t need a lot of different tools to prune shrubs effectively. A pair of hand pruners (I prefer Felco hand pruners) will cut any branch up to 3/4 inches in diameter.

Leaning Tree

2009-10-09T08:00:00.001-05:00

I noticed the other day that a witch hazel we planted last year has started to lean severely. We are going to have to stake it. In general, you only want to leave a tree staked for a year, otherwise, the tree starts to grow into the guide wires and it is really quite a mess.

However, this little guy is struggling, and I think a stake will help straighten him out.

Roses!

2009-10-08T08:00:00.001-05:00

If you haven't heard enough about my knock-out roses this season, let me give you one more post. The bushes are still blooming and the flowers are so delicate and breathtaking. (Mostly breathtaking due to the minimal amount of care they take to look fabulous.)

They have also had a surge in growth over the last few weeks.

Seeing them looking so good kind of has me sad for fall.

Dig Up Caladiums

2009-10-07T08:00:00.001-05:00

My caladiums are starting to look a little worse for wear.

Like cannas, caladiums need to be dug up in the fall and replanted in the spring. However, unlike cannas, it is better to dig up the caladiums before the first frost.

If possible, allow the leaves to dry up and fall off naturally. This will ensure the bulbs have time to absorb nutrients.

Ideally, caladiums should be stored at 70 degrees or warmer, so avoid storing them in an unheated garage or in the basement. (Cannas should be stored in a cool, dark place.)

Apple Picking

2009-10-06T08:00:00.001-05:00

My parents come to visit over the weekend. Before they arrived, they stopped at an apple orchard to pick apples. There were only two varieties left to pick, as the season is coming to a close, but they had a good time.

They left some apples for me to enjoy:

I can't wait to give them a try!

What to Do With Cannas

2009-10-05T08:00:00.000-05:00

If you have cannas in your landscape, you need to dig them up after the first frost to enjoy them again next spring/summer.

After frost kills the foliage, trim the plant off short to about four inches. Dig it up in the next week or two, any time before the ground freezes.

Use a garden fork or spade to dig up the root. Be careful not to damage it. The root will have grown over the season, so start digging a foot or more away from the stem. If pieces break off, save them, too.

Gently brush off excess soil. Rinse clean with a garden hose if you wish. Air dry at room temperature for a few days before storing.

Every year you will have more cannas to plant the following spring!

Mums in Bloom

2009-10-02T09:18:00.004-05:00

The mums we planted a few weeks ago are in full bloom.

So pretty.

A Different Approach to Planting Trees

2009-10-01T21:22:00.004-05:00

When most people plant a tree, they plant one tree, singular, in its own space. The tree may be planted for shade, or just to add interest to the landscape. Most of the time, the tree is a lone reed.

Why do we do this? (I have done this, in fact, a previous homeowner planted a singular Sycamore tree in the front yard, that is now HUGE. It may even predate the house, which was built around it.)

If you visit a forest, what do you see? Trees of all shapes and sizes growing right next to each other. Sure, they are competing for nutrients, water and other elements to survive, but they are tightly knit.

If this is how trees grow in nature, why do we plant a new tree far from any other tree in our urban landscapes?

This fall, experiment. Try planting two or three trees in a group in a corner of your yard--a mini-forest if you will. Just have fun with it!*

*And send me a picture of the results!

Green | Environmental Conference

2009-09-30T13:24:00.002-05:00

Johnson County Community College and Ryan Lawn & Tree are sponsoring an environmental conference in January 2010. Speakers from around the country will be on hand to discuss the affect of lawn and landscape maintenance practices on water quality.

For more information, visit www.ryanlawn.com/green.

If you have an opinion about our environment, I invite you to attend. The event will feature an open forum before lunch to allow attendees the chance to discuss environmental issues.

E-mail me at tarapatty at ryanlawn dot com for more information.

Irrigation Winterization

2009-09-28T15:26:00.003-05:00

If you live in the Midwest, it is time to start thinking about winterizing your irrigation system.

If you have an above-ground backflow, it is important to schedule your appointment sooner rather than later to avoid damage from a surprise, early freeze.

"Winterizing" your system involves blowing all the water out of the system to prevent breaks due to freezing and thawing.

If you water the old-fashioned way, like I do, it is important to drain all hoses and store them in the garage for winter.*

*Winter is never the reason I have had a hose fail. My problem is that I keep a spray attachment on the end of the hose and I am absentminded. TWICE, I have left the water on without realizing it. This makes the pressure in the hose build up, until the hose itself splits. Broken hose = annoyed husband.

It's Time to Order Bulbs

2009-09-25T15:56:00.007-05:00

"Ronaldo'"
Photo from White Flower Farm

It's not too early to order your spring-flowering bulbs. (I usually plant mine in October.) This year, I am getting Tulips and Hyacinths.

Things to consider before planting:

Site: Will the flowers do better in full sun, shade or a mixture of both.

Planting Depth: Planting bulbs at the wrong depth will prevent them from coming up properly next spring.

Bloom Time: Select bulbs that have a variety of bloom times. I am going to plant a bed of early, mid and late blooming tulips to prolong my enjoyment.

(I REALLY love tulips. Martha said she planted tulips every two years at Turkey Hill. I treat them as an annual, because as much as I hope, they just don't come back the second year.)

Finally, don't err and plant the bulbs upside down. I don't *think* I have ever done this, but every year as I am planting I have to get reassurance from Tom that I am planting the bulbs properly. It is a weird anxiety of mine.

If you aren't ordering bulbs online, be sure to go to gardening centers early. The best varieties will sell out quickly.

Pansy Comeback

2009-09-24T15:03:00.004-05:00

It is Pansy time again in the Midwest. Temperatures have cooled off enough for these little gems to thrive. (A good friend in Virginia planted some a few weeks ago.)

Pansies do best in full sun. In the spring, it is okay to plant them in partial shade to insulate them a little against climbing temperatures. However, in the fall, it is probably best to plant them in full sun.

During a mild winter, it is possible pansies will survive to make an appearance again in spring. However, a hard frost will do them in. (Pansies are grown as a perennial in some places, just not the Midwest or the South. They don't do well if it gets too cold in the winter or too hot in the summer.)

If you need more than mums this fall, give them a try.

SweeTango Apple

2009-09-22T14:26:00.005-05:00

To continue the trend of posting about produce, I picked up a new apple variety at the store last night. It is called "SweeTango." It was developed by the University of Minnesota, who previously released the "HoneyCrisp" variety.

"SweeTango" started a touch tart, but overall was very sweet. "SweeTango" is a cross between the "HoneyCrisp" and "Zestar" varieties. It reminded me of "Pink Lady." I enjoy the overall sweetness of the "HoneyCrisp" better than this latest release, but I encourage all of you to pick up a "SweeTango" and give it a try.

Pumpkin Shortage

2009-09-21T19:30:00.005-05:00

The cool, wet weather during the growing season has led to a shortage of pumpkins this year. Prices for carving pumpkins will likely go up, and you may have to give up traditional pumpkin pie as the shortage crosses over to a scarcity of canned pumpkin.

I learned this tonight after a bit of Internet searching. I was excited to make some cranberry pumpkin muffins to kick off the fall season and had trouble finding canned pumpkin. One grocery store posted a sign noting pumpkin will be back in stock October 7. The second store I visited said they were told they wouldn't have pumpkin until November.

One thing is for sure: if you are a fan of pumpkin pie and other pumpkin-based desserts, buy pumpkin when you see it. It may not last long!

P.S. Those of you who planted pumpkins in your home garden are smiling now.

You've Seeded, Now What?

2009-09-18T11:50:00.004-05:00

If you've recently seeded your lawn, there are certain care practices that will ensure a good stand of grass.

Watering:
The most important is watering. Be sure to keep the ground continually moist the first 3 weeks after seeding. After that, water every other day until you mow the first time. After that, just make sure your lawn gets 1 inch of water per week.

Mowing:
Mow your new grass once it has reached a height of 2-3 inches.

Fertilizing:
You put down a starter fertilizer with your seed. Consider fertilizing again 4-6 weeks after seeding for the best lawn next spring.

Weeds:
The processes involved in seeding churn the soil, which means weed seeds that were laying low are disturbed and may germinate. This is normal. If you want to treat, wait until you have mowed your new grass 2-3 times.

I hope this answers some of your questions about what to do once new grass seed is in the ground. If you have additional questions, send them to tarapatty at ryanlawn dot com.

'Shrooms in the Lawn

2009-09-16T21:12:00.005-05:00

Photo from Flickr.

Mushrooms are not a threat to your lawn, but when environmental conditions are right, they may pop up from time to time.

They usually won't stick around long, but to keep up appearances, you can kick them over.

Mushrooms have popped up on this blog a lot lately. Just to recap: Mushrooms in your lawn are okay. Mushrooms on your tree should be checked out by a professional.

Suspicious Mounds in Your Lawn

2009-09-15T12:56:00.003-05:00

Photo Credit: A co-worker of Jim Sullivan, the author of the humorous blog post referenced below.

Late summer is when Cicada Killer Wasps emerge from their underground burrows to feed on, well, cicadas, naturally.

When they burrow out, they leave a six to eight inch diameter horseshoe-shaped pile of dirt around the nest entrance.

Usually, the wasps nest in already disturbed soil, or loose, sandy soil and are not a problem in thick, well-maintained lawns. That said, female wasps are solitary and non-aggressive--while they can sting, they rarely do. Male cicada killers are more aggressive than their female counterparts, but are unable to sting.

If you want to learn more about these creatures, you have to check out this hilarious blog post by a man in Massachusetts who observes a population at his office every year.