The Growing Times Newsletter
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The "Chelsea Chop"
The “Chelsea Chop” is a method of pruning that limits the size, controls the flowering season, and often decreases the flopping of several herbaceous perennials.
For everything you need to know about the “Chelsea Chop”, click here.
Kaolin Clay
Used for decades as an organic option for protecting fruit crops, this naturally occurring clay powder can protect fruit trees in 3 important ways: Sun Protection, Canopy Cooling, and Insect Suppression.
For more information, click here.
Beetles & Grubs
Effective treatment options depend upon the stage of development. Knowing when this insect is most vulnerable will help you choose the best methods and products to use.
For more quick facts, identifying tips, and damage information, click here.
For additional information, check out this helpful brochure from The Minnesota Landscape Arboretum.
Forest Tent Caterpillar
We have noticed that these creepy crawlies have begun to make their presence known this spring. If you see their web-like nests in your landscape, remove them as soon as possible.
For everything you need to know about Forest Tent Caterpillars, click here.
Cedar Apple Rust
Weather conditions this spring have been favorable to outbreaks of this unique fungal infection. Cedar apple rust requires two hosts, so the best treatment option is to remove one of them.
For more information on Cedar-apple rust and other rust-related diseases, click here.
Strawberries: June-Bearing vs Everbearing
Question of the Week:
Q: What is the difference between June-bearing & ever-bearing Strawberries?
A: In short, June-bearing Strawberries produce one heavy crop in June, while ever-bearing strawberries produce smaller crops throughout the growing season.
For more information, click here.
Help Your Evergreens Heal
The best way to treat winter burn is to prevent it, but if you did not protect your evergreens this fall, we have the products and expertise to help you nurse your evergreens back to health.
For more information on winterburn and how to protect your evergreens, click the link below.
Formulate Your Fruit Tree Care Plan
Timing your fruit tree applications is extremely important. Knowing what to use and when will make the best use of the product and can also help to protect our pollinator friends. We carry both traditional treatments as well as organic options. Stop in and stock up today.
For more information on spraying your fruit trees, click the link below.
Rhubarb
Growing rhubarb is fun and easy when you know how. It’s the first garden treat of the season, so remember to feed it so it can feed you.
For more information, click here.
Lawn Care & Grass Seed Information
Scheduling your turf grass care around its natural growth cycle is key to maintaining a healthy yard. For more information, view the two articles below.
Understanding Grass Seed Labels
New Treatment for Lilac Blight
Lilac blight is a bacterial disease spread by wind and rain, affecting many species of lilac. Buds may blacken, and brown spots appear on the leaves that may subsequently develop into large areas of blight, spreading to the stems and causing canker lesions. Stems can be girdled, leading to wilƟng and dieback of young shoots.
We recommend applying Ferti-lome’s Fungicide 5, a bio-fungicide & bactericide.
For more information on lilac blight and how to treat it, click here.
Beat the Rush, Get Your Soil Tested
We offer in-house soil testing with clear and concise results and recommendations tailored for our area. Tests can take up to 2 weeks, so get your samples in now to ensure you are prepared for planting season.
For more information on how to successfully collect your soil sample, click here.
We Have Succulents!
We have thousands of succulents in a huge variety of shapes, colors, and sizes. Stop in to get yours today!
Growing these plants can sometimes be confusing. Check out this helpful article that explains the dos and don’ts of caring for succulents.
Onions, Potatoes, and Asparagus, Oh My!
We have a multitude of varieties available today at our garden center. Those varieties include bulk organic seed potatoes in Norland, German Butterball, and Burbank.
Want more information on how to grow asparagus? Check out this helpful article.
Growing Asparagus in Home Gardens
Asian Lady Beetles
While these guys are not as destructive to the landscape as other beetles, they can still be a giant pain. With warmer weather on the horizon, it is time to stop in and get stocked up on the products and advice you need to keep these guys outdoors where they belong.
To learn more about these pesky creatures, click on the article below.
Wildflowers, a Labor of Love
Wildflower gardens are a great way to create a habitat for pollinators, but the best ones are a commitment. It can take years to establish a wildflower garden, and often, you must temper expectations (top) with reality (bottom). We have the knowledge and materials you need to make your efforts successful.
For more information on planting and cultural information, view this article from Applewood Seed Co.
The Bee-utiful Landscapes: Building a Pollinator Garden article from NDSU is a great resource to learn more about building a pollinator garden in your landscape.
This Best Prairie Grasses & Wildflowers brochure will guide you in prepping, planting, and maintaining your prairie grasses and wildflowers.
Understanding Herbicides
Knowing how herbicides work will help you to choose the correct product for your specific purpose. From contact and selective to pre-emergent herbicides, this article will break down everything you need to know to take care of your specific issue.
The Importance of Soil pH
Appropriate soil pH is paramount to growing happy, healthy plants. Soil pH affects everything from nutrient availability to soil structure, making soil testing a vital component of any successful gardening endeavor.
This article dives deeper into the importance of your soil’s pH.
NPK & How Plants Use Them
Nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium are essential to plant growth. Understanding how they work will help you choose the appropriate formulation for your specific situation. Remember, the only way to determine the correct fertilizer for your crop is to have a soil test done.
To view more information on fertilizer numbers, click here.
Soil Testing
Having your soil tested is the best way to determine what your plants need to stay healthy. Taking soil samples the correct way helps to ensure that the test is accurate.
Learn more about collecting your soil sample.
Troubleshooting Seed Starts
Problems tend to arise in the growth phase, just after germination. Keep a close eye on your plants, especially for common issues.
For more information, take a look at these two helpful articles.
Houseplant Care
Stop in and visit our sunroom! We have hundreds of houseplants in dozens of varieties including Hoya, Ficus, Pothos, Jade, Alocasia, Peperomia, Orchids, Tradescantia, Monstera, and many, many more! For more helpful information on how to take care of these houseplants and some interesting facts on their health benefits, check out these links below.
Hummingbirds
The hummingbird migration has started in the southern states. When our tiny feathered friends arrive in Minnesota, they will be hungry. Be prepared to greet them with much-needed calories by having your feeders out and waiting.
Learn more about the Ruby-Throated Hummingbird.
Create a Pollinator Garden
Many people don’t know that hummingbirds prefer natural nectar to sugar water, so make this the year you finally create that pollinator garden.
Are you unsure what to plant, or do you need someone else to do the heavy lifting? Schedule a meeting with one of our designers to develop a plan and estimate.
To request a quote from one of our Landscape Design Professionals, click the link below.
Deer Resistant Plants
Deer deterrents aren’t just for summer. As new, tender growth begins to emerge, you will want to have deer and rodent spray on hand. We have many great products available now. Don’t wait until it’s too late! Stop into the garden center to check out our selection.
For more information on plants deer generally don’t like to eat, click the link below.
Home Checklist for Bear Awareness
This is your friendly reminder that our local black bear population is coming out of hibernation. It’s time to watch your birdfeeders and garbage cans.
Click the link below for more tips and tricks.
Doody Calls
If you are a dog owner, then no doubt, the melting snow has revealed a boatload of piles from Fido. The sooner you get the poop scoop out, the better it will be for your lawn. Both dog urine and feces contain high concentrations of nitrogen, which can kill grass.
If you need advice on spring lawn repair, come in and chat with one of our experts. We have the knowledge and materials you need to make your yard the envy of the neighborhood.
For additional resources, check out these helpful hints from DoodyCalls Pet Waste Management.
Caring for African Violets
With the many stunning colors of African Violets we have at our garden center, this plant will bring some added color to your home.
In the document linked below, we discuss everything from light exposure to temperature, watering, and fertilizing. To best take care of your African Violets, read the handout below.
It's Pruning Time
Pruning your apple and fruit trees at the right time and correctly is important in helping promote healthy growth and great yield. Late winter into early spring is the best time to prune your fruit trees.
Check out these two helpful articles that walk you through all the steps to get the best quality pruning for your trees.
Rodent Damage
For many of us, melting snow has uncovered chewing damage on shrubs and trees.
We recommend trimming branches back to healthy bark. Water and fertilize when appropriate to give your plants a fighting chance to regrow. In some severe cases, recovery may not be possible.
The best way to combat rodent damage is to prevent it. Take preventative measures in the fall to keep plants safe over the winter months.
Are you unsure what to do for your specific plant? Stop in and ask one of our experts.
All About BlueJuice!
BlueJuice is a ready-to-use, all-purpose, water-soluble fertilizer. This means there is no need to dilute it. It can be used on all ornamental plants (annuals, perennials, houseplants, etc.). You can apply it once a week as you would water. Quantities vary depending on your specific situation.
Outdoor Plants: Wet soil around the plant base thoroughly to allow liquid to flow naturally to the roots.
Container Plants: Wet soil thoroughly until liquid flows through the pot into the saucer. Remember to remove any excess liquid from your saucer, and recycle on additional plants if applicable.
February 20th, 2025
Plan Your Garden and Landscaping Projects NOW!
Get a jump on the busy season by planning now. Schedule a visit with one of our landscape designers by calling the garden center or submitting a form on our website today.
Also, take a look at our photo galleries for great ideas and design inspiration.
Winter 2025
After a bitterly cold week, the forecast is looking up for the weekend. However, minimal snowfall and frigid temps throughout the winter have certainly increased the frost depts. This could mean a late start to the planting season; making NOW a great time to plan your next garden or landscape project.
Check out these two resources about plant hardiness and frost depths in Minnesota.
We're Hiring!
We are always looking for talented people to join our team. We offer great benefits and on-the-job training! Stop by our garden center to apply in person or fill out our online contact form.
Now accepting applications for:
* Landscape construction crew leaders, assistants, and apprentices
* Greenhouse production and sales assistants
When to Start Your Seeds
Start your seeds indoors about 6 to 8 weeks before the last expected frost date, which in our location typically falls around June 1st.
To read more on this topic, check out this helpful article from The Spruce: How to Start Seeds Indoors: The Complete Guide.
Meet the Pantone Color of the Year 2025: Mocha Mousse
“For 2025, the Pantone Color Institute selects PANTONE 17-1230 Mocha Mousse, a warming, brown hue imbued with richness. It nurtures us with its suggestion of the delectable qualities of chocolate and coffee, answering our desire for comfort.”
Granted it doesn’t bring to mind a color that you would want reflected on your garden plants. However, it does create a warm neutral backdrop for a wide variety of blooming plants. Nepeta, Astilbe, and Daisy are just a few that come to mind.
2025 Perennial Plant of the Year: Clustered Mt. Mint
Clustered Mt. Mint (Pycnanthemum Muticum)
Clustered mountain mint or short-toothed mountain mint is a tough and adaptable perennial native to meadows and open woodlands across the eastern United States. It is not a true mint (Mentha spp.) but belongs to the same family and has similarly scented leaves. A must-have for pollinator gardens, heads of tiny white to light pink blooms attract butterflies, wasps, and bees from July to September. Clustered mountain mint has no serious disease issues, and its aromatic foliage is unpalatable to deer and rabbits.
Branched, vertical stems grow two to three feet tall and form a dense clump. Clustered mountain mint spreads by underground rhizomes and can be aggressive in moist conditions, though it is not invasive to the degree of true mints.
2025 Houseplant of the Year: Snake Plant
1-800-Flowers has named the snake plant the 2025 houseplant of the year. Snake plant, AKA Mother-in-Law’s Tongue or Sansevieria, might be one of the easiest plants to grow indoors, making it an excellent option for any home.
They require minimal care and can thrive in low-light conditions with little water. In fact, snake plant is best left alone as much as possible to prevent overwatering and root rot.
“2025 not only marks the year of the snake plant but it is also the Year of the Snake in the Chinese Zodiac—a sign that makes this selection even more meaningful,” said the press release.
Now is the Time to Prune
Believe it or not, winter (dormancy) is the best time to prune your shrubs and trees. With little to no snow in most areas, many of our woody landscape plants are accessible and the cold temps help to prevent the spread of insects and disease. Just remember that you should NEVER prune your spring-blooming plants this time of year.
If you have questions or concerns about what or how you should prune, call one of our knowledgeable experts for tips and tricks to make your dormant pruning a success.