4/23/2013

AUBURN — The Placer County Water Agency will host a series of 10 “Green Gardener at Home” workshops to help local residents grow healthy and beautiful gardens and landscapes while using water and other resources efficiently.

Taught by local gardening and landscaping professionals, the PCWA series is modeled after the successful River Friendly Landscaping professional course offered by the Regional Water Authority (RWA), of which PCWA is a member.

“Using water more efficiently, reducing water usage, and keeping water from running off into storm drains and creeks are a benefit of the PCWA workshops. This can be achieved while building a beautiful and healthy landscape,” said agency Deputy Director of Customer Services Linda Yager. She oversees the agency’s Water Efficiency Program.

“We have recruited instructors from the local community who are experts in their fields,” she said. “PCWA is pleased to offer our customers training on sustainable gardening and landscaping principles.”

The 10-week series of classes will be offered Tuesdays, Feb. 26 – Apr. 30, from 6:30-8:30 p.m., in the American River Room at the PCWA Business Center, 144 Ferguson Road, in Auburn. The course is offered exclusively to PCWA water users. The $40 registration fee includes all course materials.

To register or to be placed on an interest list for the next series, contact PCWA Customer Services at (530) 823-4850 or via email at customerservices@pcwa.net.

PCWA Green Gardener at Home Series

Topic Date
River Friendly Landscaping February 26
Introduction to Soils March 5
Compost and Mulches March 12
Irrigation March 19
Landscape Design March 26
Right Plant, Right Place April 2
Edible Gardens April 9
Integrated Pest Management April 16
Pruning for Plant Health April 23
Fertilizers and Lawn Care April 30

Placer County News

Scenic Placer County to the Feather RiverTucked between California highways 70 and 99, just 20 miles or so west of Roseville, the Feather River slowly drifts through a seemingly different time and place.

Acura MDX luxury crossover SUV delivers in valueThe MDX provides good value in the luxury crossover class ($43,030) that is generally rather pricy. It has strong upside, providing a fun SUV with to drive with good performance, strong safety, and very few flaws.

Faith and Science Lecture May 2nd in RocklinWilliam Jessup University will host a lecture entitled “Faith and Science” featuring Dr. William Hurlbut, on Thursday, May 2 from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. in the Bernardoni Lecture Hall.

Are You at Risk for Osteoarthritis?Osteoarthritis, the most common form of arthritis, creates joint pain and reduced motion. “Osteoarthritis symptoms usually develop slowly and worsen over time,” says Paul Sasaura, M.D., an orthopedic surgeon

Youth Safety Month – How to Avoid Overuse Injuries in SportsApril is Youth Sports Safety Month and sports medicine specialist Thomas Merchant, M.D., with Sutter Independent Physicians, wants to spread the word on avoiding sports injuries.

Placer County Water Agency UpdateDirectors of the Placer County Water Agency on Thursday (Apr. 18) approved several measures related to future operations, maintenance and energy sales of the PCWA

9th Annual Fred Biletnikoff Hall of Fame Golf ClassicOn April 29th, NFL Hall of Famer and Oakland Raiders legend Fred Biletnikoff returns to the Bay Area once again to give back to the area that supported him throughout his Raider career.

Squaw Valley ski resort in Lake Tahoe closing for seasonSquaw Valley ski resort in Lake Tahoe has decided to close for the season on Sunday (April 21).

<!–Garden at Carnellian Lane home in Peachtree City.–>

The Fayette County Master Gardener Association, made up of master gardener Extension volunteers with the University of Georgia Extension Service, will conduct the annual plant sale and garden tour Saturday, May 4. Hundreds of plants for flower and vegetable gardening as well as landscaping will be available. The plant sale will offer flowers, shrubs, herbs, vegetables, and trees, many of which are native plants, for purchase.

The sale will be from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. and will be centered around the gazebo at the Fayette County Stonewall Government Complex in Fayetteville. In the event of rain, the sale plants will be placed under the covered walkway of the complex.

Master gardeners will be available to help in selecting plants, providing growing instructions and other gardening information, and giving gardening demonstrations.

Displays and demonstrations will include gardening in raised beds and containers, hydroponics and aeroponics, gardening with succulents, and using rain barrels for water conservation. Shoppers will be provided with lists of the plants designated as Georgia Gold Medal plants for outstanding performance in our region. Soil testing information and guidance will be available to help gardeners determine readiness of the soil for planting.

Proceeds from the plant sale and tickets for the garden tour are used to provide 4-H scholarships, and to fund the Junior Master Gardener program, educational classes and activities for the general public, continued education for Extension volunteers, and the Plant a Row for the Hungry garden.

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In photo above right, the homeowners at this Carnellian Lane home in Peachtree City are both master rosarians and horticulture judges with the American Rose Society. Their more than 200 rose plants are regular winners in rose show competitions. Roses include hybrid tea, climber, shrub, floribunda, old garden, mini, and miniflora classifications. In addition to roses, the entire landscape includes numerous types of shrubs, perennials, bulbs, and herbs. The woodland and partial shade parts of the garden include camellias, hellebores, hollies, azaleas, and other plantings. The front yard is well-landscaped with azaleas, hollies, boxwoods, pieris, nandinas, and bulbs. Irises are in both the front and back gardens and the home also features a rain barrel. Photo/Special.

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The Plant a Row garden, operated by master gardeners, provided approximately 20,000 pounds of produce in 2012 that was distributed to the Real Life Center, Fayette Samaritans, and several other food pantries and organizations, such as domestic violence and youth protection centers, and other groups that provide food for low income or jobless families, and for those whose lives are in transition.

The garden tour will be from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Six outstanding gardens will be featured including the education garden at the Fayette County Stonewall Government Complex, a project operated by the Extension Service Master Gardener Extension Volunteers. The remaining five gardens are in Peachtree City.

Tickets purchased in advance are $15, or are available at any one of the gardens on the day of the tour for $20. Advance tickets are available at Wild  Birds Unlimited in Peachtree City; Andy’s Nursery, Town Square Jewelers, and at the plant sale in Fayetteville; or from master gardeners.

A list of the gardens on the tour is printed on the tickets.

For more information, call 770-305-5153 or email fmga08@gmail.com.

 

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In photos below, this beautiful garden in Peachtree City’s Shirewood Park is also on the garden tour this year. The homeowner has developed an eclectic garden featuring plantings well-suited to the sloping landscape in the front, and use of rocks. Several rooms, or seating areas, in the back garden are surrounded by a wide variety of plantings. Included in the design are perennials, bulbs, and shrubs, accenting whimsical sculptures, old style enamled metal chairs, benches and other esating, and bird houses. Walkways lead through the garden to the individual rooms. One seating area is beside a golf cart path, and walkers along the path often stop to enjoy the inviting garden setting on one side, and view of a lovely neighborhood pond on the other. Another of the rooms is hardscaped and centered with a colorful fire pit beside a water feature. Japanese maples, a large spreading Yoshino cherry, camellias,and other shrubs enhance the landscape. Of particularly interest is a red twig dogwood with a striking red trunk and branches year-round. Photos/Special.

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The Woman’s Club of McLean is in the final stages of preparing for the community’s first-ever Kitchen and Garden Tour, planned for Wednesday, May 1 (rain date: May 2).

The event takes place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. A formal kickoff will take place at 10 a.m. at Holyrood Drive and Countryside Court, in west McLean, near the six large homes that will open their kitchens and extensive gardens for the tour. Tickets will be available on the tour day for $30 at any of the houses. Before May 1, they can be purchased for $25 at Flowers and Plants, Etc., 1378 Chain Bridge Road, McLean; Karin’s Florist, 527 Maple Ave., E., in Vienna; Great Dogs of Great Falls, 9859 Georgetown Pike; and Vinson Hall Retirement Community, 6521 Old Dominion Drive in McLean.

All proceeds of the tour will go to Vinson Hall’s Wounded Warrior Transitional Housing Project, which is supported by the Navy Marine Coast Guard Residence Foundation. The foundation’s executive director, Rear Admiral (Ret.) Kathleen L. Martin, said in a prepared statement, “The vision for this program was established in 2011, with a plan to help young, wounded veterans who have returned home from conflict requiring a special kind of care in an environment that is well suited to their unique needs.”

Handicapped-accessible apartments are currently being renovated for veterans who have been discharged from inpatient care at Walter Reed Medical Center. With its population of some 200 military officers and government employees, Vinson Hall is a community where older warriors can mentor younger warriors by a providing a listening ear and words of encouragement.

The average age of the wounded service members, according to the foundation, is 22 to 35, with most in their 20s needing transitional housing.

Each tour ticket consists of a guide booklet with directions to the six houses, which are on 1-acre lots and are within close walking distance of each other. Visitors may begin the tour at any of the homes. Ample street parking is nearby.

After entering the home, visitors will pass through the kitchen before exiting into the garden. Many of the large kitchens have recently been redesigned and updated. The booklet describes these and also details each home’s plantings and landscaping, which includes such amenities as arbors, winding paths, decks, patios and large and small pools.

Visitors will find a huge variety of flowers, shrubs and trees, ranging from exotic species to those native to Virginia. Some landscapes are reminiscent of English gardens; one contains a pond area with lily pads inspired by the famous garden of the French artist Monet. There are 100-year-old tulip poplar trees and recent variations of universally popular flowers, such as the 29 varieties of roses in one of the gardens.

The tour neighborhood, known as Countryside Estates, can be reached by taking Old Dominion Drive from central McLean toward Balls Hill Road, bearing right, crossing Georgetown Pike and then taking the second right, Holyrood Drive. The intersection of Balls Hill Road with Georgetown Pike is near Exit 44 of the Beltway.

For more information, call the Woman’s Club at 703-556-0197 or send an e-mail to sheridan2@cox.net.

A neighbour perpetually ran a pump in an effort to preserve his garden from the ocean’s onslaught.

“That can’t possibly work,” says Marcyn Ward, of Down to Earth Landscapes. “Yet it’s the way most people think. They think that they’re able to pump and put things in pipes and defeat the power of the ocean.”

For the last 30 years, the company has worked with the architectural design of private gardens. When they were called to rid the tidal waters from the island home’s yard, they responded with a series of swales and berms, contouring the land to control the flow of ground and surface water.

Rather than ridding the yard of water, the company’s workers modified the yard to include a stream that carried surface water past decorative stones.

“There’s a much broader way of looking at landscape and looking for miles around you

and seeing how you sit in the landscape, how you sit in terms of elevation,” explains Ward. “We allow water to move as it naturally does through the sub-grade and we build the land on top of that high-water mark.”

Some garden problems may be related to irrigation, according to Ward.

“Some very experienced landscape architects are actually quite challenged with controlling site water. Often you’ll see many, many very expensive gardens that are soggy on the surface.”

If water sits on top of a lawn, many gardeners make the mistake of aerating and adding sand to dry the surface. They usually achieve the opposite effect, says Ward.

“They’ve built little holes full of sand, and water always moves to the area of least resistance.”

Specializing in high-end residential landscape design and maintenance, the North Vancouver company places an emphasis on examining each site in the context of its geography.

“You can’t fight your site conditions,” says Ward. “You either have to change them or work with them, and working with them is much smarter.”

Consulting an expert before any major work can save backyard gardeners from shoddy lawns, rotten roots and heartache, according to Ward.

“We rip out gardens all the time done by people who didn’t carefully consider what’s happening underground and with the environment around them.”

Other considerations, such as the shade cast by your own home and nearby trees and architecture, should also be considered in terms of the plants you’d like to grow, according to Ward.

Most shade plants will survive in filtered light but not full sun,she says.

While many landscapers can be skilled at manicuring trees and lawns, they often fail to consider what’s happening below the surface, according to Ward.

“Generally, about 80 per cent of the work we do is below ground,” she says.

“The actual planting, lawn, and irrigation system, etcetera, is just the icing on the cake. Many companies just focus on the icing on the cake, but really good quality landscape starts

from way down.”

While some landscaping problems necessitate clever solutions, sandy, indigenous soils are “the easiest thing in the world,” to work with, according to Ward.

“Organics and the fine particulate matter in organic soils will always migrate, with rain and time, down through sand,” she says.

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Boulder landscape designer Bill Melvin to host Earth Day workshop in Broomfield, CO.

Take the time to look at the drought and watering restrictions as an opportunity or catalyst for change.

Boulder, CO (PRWEB) April 20, 2013

Ecoscape Environmental Design, a landscaping company from Boulder, CO, will host an educational workshop on xeriscaping on Sunday, April 21st in Broomfield in celebration of Earth Day.

The workshop, which will take place at 3pm this Sunday at 16151 Lowell Blvd, Broomfield, CO, is intended to educate audiences of varying skill sets on the topics of xeriscape gardens, edible gardens, and even fruits and vegetables.

“We’ve designed the workshop material for homeowners looking to transform their lawn to xeriscape gardens, install a vegetable garden, or incorporate fruits, berries, and herbs into their landscapes,” Ecoscape Environmental Design owner and Boulder landscape designer Bill Melvin said. “We will also cover more advanced material for the avid gardener looking for new species to integrate into their land, the curious gardener wanting to know what type of fruits can grow well in this climate, and even the beginning gardener who will find fascination in colorful photos of what is possible in our semi-arid environment.”

Workshop: Xeriscaping in our Arid West

Date: Sun. April 21, 2013

Location: 16151 Lowell Blvd, Broomfield, CO 80023

Time: 3-4pm

For more info, contact Ecoscape at 303.447.2282

For Melvin, Earth Day is something he has celebrated since he was just a kid.

“Ever since I was a kid I thought it was so wonderful to have one day out of the year where people actually pay tribute to this cosmic ecosystem we call home,” he said. “For many, thankfully, Earth Day is acknowledged every day of the year, but April 22 is a great opportunity to bring community together for conscious recognition of how vital the livings systems all around us are.”

With recent changes to water laws in Boulder County that will now allow residents to use roof water catchment of rain water and snow melt, Melvin will show people how to lower their water bills in his presentation of “Xeriscaping in our Arid West.”

“Take the time to look at the drought and watering restrictions as an opportunity or catalyst for change. There are so many little ways you can proactively save water. It is a wonderful time to tear up that lawn you are tired of caring for and watering excessively,” Melvin said. “In a semi-arid desert, isn’t it just silly that engineers design developed land to shed water into the sewer? Why not capture it and use it?”

Gray water can now be utilized for flushing of toilets and sub surface drip irrigation, Melvin said. These changes are not very feasible for many as the city requires separately plumbed lines for the gray water making the investment cost prohibitive to most.

“In the not too distant future, I believe we will see big changes to Colorado water laws,” Melvin said. “It was after all not too long ago that the mayor of Denver was advising people to catch their shower water for use in their landscapes.”

Call the Ecoscape Environmental Design office at 303.447.2282 to learn more about the Earth Day Workshops. Learn more about Ecoscape’s landscaping design and maintenance services at http://www.ecoscapedesign.com

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It’s been a long, long winter. But warmer weather will arrive eventually and then things will start to pop — maybe even bloom. Garden shops are eager to roll out the floral carpet for the growing season. Use this guide of garden centers’ descriptions and locations to get started. Please note that season openings and hours vary and change. Check websites or call for the most up-to-date information.

Abrahamson Nurseries. All three garden centers — in Stillwater, Scandia and St. Croix Falls — offer plenty of things in bloom as well as gardening supplies and accessories. Be sure to check out the garden-themed gifts while there. Delivery and landscape services are available at each site. (2100 Tower Drive, Stillwater; 651-433-2140;

20021 St. Croix Trail N., Scandia; 651-433-2431; 1257 State Road 35, St. Croix Falls, Wis.; 715-483-3040; abrahamsonnurseries.com)

Bergmann’s Greenhouses and Farm Market. A destination in the St. Croix River Valley for scoring lush bedding plants and overflowing floral hanging baskets for gifts. (12239 62nd St. N., Stillwater; 651-439-9577)

Country Sun Farm in Stillwater. In 35 years, this family-owned institution has blossomed into greenhouses and a retail garden center where visitors can stock up on a colorful variety of flowers and plants. (11211 N. 60th St., Lake Elmo; 651-439-4156; countrysunfarm.net)

Camrose Hill Shop. From elegant roses to colorful wildflowers, floral designer Cindie Sinclair’s love affair with nature and country living come across in her garden-fresh-style bouquets. Former farm fields have been turned into sprawling gardens for a place to take a stroll and smell the roses. Events also are offered on the property. (233 S. Second St., Stillwater; 651-351-9631; camrosehillflowers.com)

Dege Garden Center. For more than 100 years, fans have

come from all over for Dege’s large selection of flower and vegetable seeds. During the season, George Dege, or “Mr. Lawn,” passes along his extensive gardening knowledge Saturday mornings on a national call-in talk show on 1220 AM Radio. (831 N. Century Ave., St. Paul; 651-739-5296; degegardencenter.com)

Fleur de Lis. This quaint florist shop on Cathedral Hill has something to suit a variety of styles. Potted plants and floral arrangements come in themes ranging from tropical to country living. The gift shop with pottery and jewelry from local artists also stands out. (516 Selby Ave., St. Paul; 651-292-9562; fleurfresh.com)

Funkie Gardens. Nursery near William O’Brien State Park is a place to enjoy nature’s bounty while stocking up on the center’s unique offerings, such as Martagon lilies and lady’s slipper orchids. More than 300 perennials and 400 hosta varieties offered. (19713 Quinnell Ave., Marine on St. Croix; 651-433-4599; funkiegardens.com)

Garden Safari Gifts. Among the unique offerings at the Como Zoo and Marjorie McNeely Conservatory at Como Park’s gift shop are bonsais and bonsai supplies. Garden-themed gifts, such as outdoor nightlights and nature-inspired jewelry, also are part of the stockpile. (1225 Estabrook Drive, St. Paul; 651-487-8222; comozooconservatory.org)

Gray Gardens. Visitors come to this garden and landscape center on Victorian grounds for decorating ideas both indoors and out. The home store features shrubs and flowers as well as an elaborate selection of garden gifts and accessories, plus gazebos, fountains and statuary. (366 Water St., Excelsior; 952-474-9150; graygardens.net)

Hermes Floral Greenhouses. For three generations, this family-run institution has grown flowers and plants to sell at its floral, garden and gift shop. Bouquets range from classic to contemporary, simple to lavish. (1639 W. Larpenteur Ave., St. Paul; 651-646-7135; hermesfloral.com)

Highland Nursery. More than 60 years

since opening in Highland Village, this St. Paul family-owned nursery now on West Seventh Street has blossomed into a lush selection of herbs, heirloom vegetables and unique plants. Statuary and other garden accents also are available. While strolling the grounds, be sure to check out the elaborate Bur Oak tree sculpture paying a tribute to John Smith and Elizabeth Ryan Smith, who homesteaded the site in 1850. (1742 W. Seventh St., St. Paul; 651-698-1708; thehighlandnursery.com)

Humble Acres. Owner Diane Reszka grows on three acres of western Wisconsin countryside, and her store emphasizes unique perennials friendly to Midwest climates as can be seen in the more than 400 varieties, including native species, rain garden plants and butterfly flowers. (433 East Cove Road, Hudson, Wis.; 612-290-5004; humbleacres.com)

Leitner’s. Deck out your patio and garden with finds from this St. Paul institution, especially known for its custom potting plants and more than 100 varieties of herbs. The center recently expanded its Asian and heirloom vegetables. Fruiting plants and original garden art also are available. (945 Randolph Ave., St. Paul; 651-291-2655; leitnersstpaul.com)

Lilydale Garden Center. This garden design and installation spot is a favorite stop for garden-style arrangements. Fans also like it for the wide variety of flowering shrubs and tropical houseplants as well as fruiting and ornamental shade trees. The gift shop includes botanical and garden accessories, ranging from soaps to wind chimes. Purchases come with complimentary gift-wrapping. (941 Sibley Memorial Highway, St. Paul; 651-457-6040; lilydalegardencenter.com)

Mother Earth Gardens. Organic, sustainable and local are key philosophies at this independently owned spot where a variety of seeds, vegetables, herbs, annuals, perennials and native trees can be found. The gift store offers a selection of eco-friendly, local and handmade gifts plus garden decor. Besides the Longfellow spot, Mother Earth Gardens plans to open a second site in Northeast Minneapolis (2318 N.E. Lowry Ave.) by month’s end. (3738 42nd Ave. S., Mpls.; 612-724-2296; motherearthgarden.com)

My Sister’s Garden. This western Wisconsin spot features a wide variety of annuals, perennials, herbs, vegetables, plants and gift items. Especially known for its perennials and design, it also offers gardening workshops and floral and landscaping services. (850 Kelly Road off Highway 12, Hudson, Wis..; 715-386-4111; mysistersgarden.com)

Petunia’s. Flying pig statues are part of the shop’s eclectic assortment of vintage and contemporary home and garden accessories. Upholstered furniture, throw pillows, French country decor, garden statuary, Chinese lanterns and benches are part of the mix. (421 Third St., Excelsior; 952-474-0461; petuniasonthird.com)

Savory’s Gardens. For about 70 years, Savory’s has flourished, growing into a mail-order business specializing in hostas. On-site sales are offered during the growing season. Besides hostas, look for other perennials at the garden store. More than three dozen new flower varieties will be offered in 2013. The store opens May 1 and the display garden on June 1. (5300 Whiting Ave., Edina; 952-941-8755; savorysgardens.com)

Sam Kedem Nursery. Smell the roses as well as ornamental shrubs, fruit and shade trees at this nursery that emphasizes certified organic, locally grown fruits and vegetables. The spot is popular for its pick- your-own fruit offerings and a garden-themed gift shop featuring flower baskets, homemade jam and more. (12414 191st St. E., Hastings; 651-437-7516; kedemroses.com)

Squire House Gardens. A nursery and display garden are located in a charming renovated 1875 home along the St. Croix River Valley. Among the garden center’s specialties are offering perennials and woody plants tough enough to survive extreme Midwest climates. Annuals, herbs, trees and shrubs are available. The gift shop, with every-thing from jewelry to skin-care products and home decor to garden tools, is a must-see. Landscape design services are available. (3390 St. Croix Trail S., Afton; 651-436-8080; squirehousegardens.com)

Tangletown Gardens. This eclectic spot is a place for gardeners and others alike. Growers will have plenty to choose from, including a large assortment of heirloom vegetables, aquatic plants and more than 3,000 perennial varieties. The shop carries gardening tools, outdoor accessories, artisan jewelry and gifts. During the growing season, regulars also come for the daily farmers’ market and to buy CSA shares from Tangletown’s own farm. If that weren’t enough, Tangletown also offers landscape services. (5353 Nicollet Ave. S., Mpls.; 612-822-4769; tangletowngardens.com)

Terrace Horticultural Books. Green-thumb enthusiast Kent Petterson collects one of the largest stocks of books on planting and gardening for others to thumb through. Rare books, seed and plant catalogs and periodicals have made even Martha Stewart a fan. Be sure to check out the display gardens and try to time your visit during one of the “tea at the terrace” receptions held several times a day. (503 St. Clair Ave., St. Paul; 651-222-5536)

Twiggs Home Garden. This Linden Hills shop is a destination for both landscapers and home interior designers looking for inspiration and decorating ideas both indoors and out. Along with flowers and plants, the shop offers a mix of classic and contemporary garden gadgets and furniture. Home accessories, botanicals, jewelry and other gift items are sourced locally and from around the world. The neighborhood spot also hosts workshops. (4301 Uptown Ave. S.; Mpls.; 612-823-8944; shoptwiggs.com)

Twin City Nursery. Just look for the trademark concrete polar bear statues stationed outside — yes, they’re for sale — and you’re there. The beloved family-owned nursery in White Bear Lake also features a large variety of seeds, annuals, evergreen perennials, ornamental shrubs, pines, firs and spruces. (4941 Long Ave., White Bear Lake; 651-429-0144; twincitynursery.com)

Two Oaks. The retail arm of Prairie Restorations landscape and design features native plants that include grasses, trees and shrubs, not to mention flowers and seed mixes. Nature-related gift items, such as books and pottery from local artists, are offered. Prairie Restorations plans to expand its Native Plant Center in Princeton to include a larger retail area. (Hawkinson Business Park, 21120 Ozark Court N., Scandia, 651-433-1437; and 31646 128th St., Princeton, 763-389-4342; prairieresto.com)

Whispering Gardens. What started as a small greenhouse has grown to include a full-service garden featuring perennials, annuals, trees and shrubs from this family-owned operation. Hanging baskets, unique hostas and tomato varieties are top sellers. The gift store is a one-stop shop for everything from garden art to cabin gifts and jewelry to botanicals. While there, be sure to check out the 1.5-acre landscaped perennial garden popular for special events. (11180 70th St. S., Cottage Grove; 651-459-8080 whisperinggardens.com)

LARGER GARDEN SUPPLY CENTERS

Bachman’s Floral, Home Garden centers: The 128-year-old local, family-owned enterprise is famous for those purple trucks and for boasting some of the largest garden centers around. The centers offer everything: annuals, perennials, garden accessories, patio furniture, gift items and more.

Those looking at landscaping also might like the Lyndale location’s new Hardscape Center, which includes a large selection of pavers, mulches and boulders.

Bachman’s Lyndale (flagship location), 6010 Lyndale Ave. S., Mpls.; 612-861-7600

Maplewood, 2600 White Bear Ave.; 651-770-0531

Apple Valley, 7955 W. 150th St.; 952-431-2242

Plymouth, 10050 Sixth Ave. N.; 763-541-1188

Eden Prairie, 770 Prairie Center Drive; 952-941-7700

Fridley, 8200 University Ave. N.E.; 763-786-8200

Gertens: With the motto “Buy from the grower,” this third-generation family-owned establishment has grown into a sprawling business. The supermarket-size garden center is known for its large selection of roses, not to mention other annuals and perennials. A “grill zone,” gift shop, water garden and outdoor living space are among themed areas that take up more than 40,000 square feet of retail space. A huge landscape supply yard and year-round seminars and clinics also attract visitors. (5500 Blaine Ave., Inver Grove Heights; 651-450-1501; gertens.com)

Linder’s Garden Center: For three generations, families have come from all over to this popular shopping stop for all things in bloom. The third-generation, family-owned St. Paul spot — with main store, greenhouses and outdoor display gardens — carries bedding plants, perennials, annuals, shrubs, gardening supplies and more. Landscape services and seminars are available. (270 W. Larpenteur Ave., St. Paul; 651-488-1927; linders.com)

Nancy Ngo can be reached at 651-228-5172. Follow her at twitter.com/nancyngotc and pinterest.com/nancyngotc.

EARTH DAY CELEBRATION, APRIL 20-21: entertainment, living history re-enactors, environmental groups, arts and crafts, food and more, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Washington Oaks Gardens State Park, 6400 N. Ocean Shore Blvd., Palm Coast. $10 per vehicle up to eight people. 386-446-6780.

DUNLAWTON SUGAR MILL GARDENS GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING, APRIL 21: using and growing herbs with Terry and Jeff Shroyer, 2 p.m., Sugar Mill Botanical Gardens, 950 Old Sugar Mill Road, Port Orange. 386-767-1735.

“SHORT SWEET” HORTICULTURE SERIES, APRIL 22-MAY 6: presented by Ruth Micieli, Horticulture Program assistant and Master Gardener Program coordinator and Louise Leister, Water and Environmental Education Program coordinator with the University of Florida, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, Flagler County Extension Service, learn how to plan and manage your landscape, based on the Florida Friendly Landscaping principles. Programs are presented at Flagler County Extension Office, 150 Sawgrass Road, Bunnell (unless otherwise noted).

April 22: 10 a.m.-noon, Designing Your Florida Landscape Workshop

April 29: 10 a.m.-noon, Hydroponics for the Home Gardener

May 6: 2-4 p.m., Coastal Gardening, Wickline Senior Center, 800 S. Daytona Ave., Flagler Beach

$5 per person, includes refreshments and program materials. Preregistration required: 386-437-7464.

VOLUSIA GARDEN CLUB, APRIL 23: “Spring Planting,” with Karen Stauderman, “The Plant Lady,” 10:30 a.m.; social 10 a.m., Finney Memorial Garden Center, 837 N. Oleander Ave., Daytona Beach. FREE. 386-672-0688.

WEST VOLUSIA AUDUBON SOCIETY MEETING, APRIL 23: Wildlife Rehabilitation, with Dr. Erin Holder and Tom Scotti, rescuer and rehabilitator, 7 p.m. meeting; 6:30 p.m. meet and greet, Garden Club of DeLand, 865 S. Alabama Ave., DeLand. FREE. 386-626-2726.

CONTAINER GARDENING, APRIL 27: book lecture and workshop, with author Lucy Beebe Tobias, 11 a.m.-1 p.m., Florida Museum for Women Artists, 100 N. Woodland Blvd., DeLand. $25 members, $30 nonmembers. Reservations: 386-873-2976.

ALTERNATIVE GROWING METHOD, APRIL 27: producing nutritious, pesticide free produce without soil, bending or weeding, 2-3 p.m., Port Orange Regional Library, 1005 City Center Circle, Port Orange. FREE. 386-453-6522.

FLORIDA GARDENING SERIES, MAY 2-30: with Master Gardener Howard Jeffries, 1 p.m. May 2, 16, 30; 10 a.m. May 4, DeBary Hall Historic Site, 210 Sunrise Blvd., DeBary. FREE. 386-668-3840.

CONTAINER GARDENING, MAY 4: 10-11:30 a.m., Full Moon Natives, 1737 Fern Park Drive, Port Orange. FREE. Reservations requested: 386-212-9923.

Western PA Garden Landscape Symposium

When: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. April 20

Admission: $115, includes lectures, continental breakfast and lunch. Early-morning workshop, “Growing Alpines and Miniature Plants,� 8-9 a.m., offered for additional $12 (advance registration required)

Where: Hillman Center for Performing Arts, Shady Side Senior School, Fox Chapel

Details: 412-441-4442, ext. 3925, or www.landscapesymposium.org

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By Candy Williams

Published: Friday, April 19, 2013, 8:57 p.m.

Updated 11 hours ago

Mother Nature teased Western Pennsylvania with some warm and sunny weather earlier this week that sent some garden enthusiasts digging for their trowels and pruning shears.

Even though it’s still a little early to declare war on weeds, garden consultant Kerry Mendez says it’s a good time to jump-start the growing season with a low-range (5-5-5 or 4-5-4 mix of nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium) granular fertilizer.

“You can give a real boost to your perennials and shrubs before the spring rains,� says Mendez, who will be one of the speakers April 20 at the Western Pennsylvania Garden Landscape Symposium at Shady Side Senior School in Fox Chapel.

The daylong symposium, sponsored by Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, Penn State Extension and Shadyside Academy, is designed for gardeners of all skill levels. It features lectures by national horticultural experts and a Garden Marketplace to shop for a variety of plants and garden accessories.

Mendez, of Ballston Spa, N.Y., operates a gardening business offering low-maintenance gardening and landscaping classes, consultations, designs and garden lectures. She is the director of marketing for a local garden center and has written two books, “The Ultimate Flower Gardener’s Top Ten Listsâ€� (2010), and “Top Ten Lists for Beautiful Shade Gardensâ€� (2011).

At the landscaping symposium, she will give two presentations, “Branch Out With Flowering Shrubs,â€� about how to add drama and color to gardens with low-maintenance flowering shrubs, and “The Perennial Plant Collector’s Corner,â€� in which she will preview new and unusual varieties of perennials.

A few examples of outstanding varieties include two hardy geraniums, “Rozanne,� with violet-blue flowers that bloom from June until fall, and “Azure Rush,� a long-blooming hybrid resulting from the “Rozanne� variety with large, soft blue flowers.

Mendez says some of the new perennials she will discuss are among the easiest plants to grow for those new to gardening. “They’re a deer-resistant, no-fuss choice that is perfect for beginners,â€� she says.

Another speaker at the symposium will be Thomas Rainer, a registered landscape architect, teacher and writer from Arlington, Va. Among the most high-profile landscapes he has designed were for the U.S. Capitol grounds, the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial and New York Botanical Garden.

Rainer advocates creating gardens that incorporate “artful interpretations of native plant communities.� His presentation will offer advice on designing landscapes that feature bold and modern patterns enhanced by native plants.

“Much of the talk revolves around the aesthetics of sustainability. Native and sustainable gardening too often ignores design and beauty. I propose new techniques for making green gardens more beautiful,� Rainer says.

“Designing with native plants can be a powerful way of connecting us with our memory of nature. This emotional connection is especially important in an age where wild nature continues to diminish. I show how to abstract and stylize native plant communities to fit human landscapes.�

Rainer is working on a master plan for a project with his planting and design firm, Rhodeside Harwell, that will involve planting 620,000 native trees from Thomas Jefferson’s home at Monticello in Virginia to the Gettysburg Battlefield, one in honor of each soldier who died in the Civil War. The “Journey Through Hallowed Ground Living Legacy Projectâ€� is being done in conjunction with the Sesquicentennial Commemoration of the Civil War with a 2015 target completion date.

Other program speakers will include:

• Whitney Cranshaw, a Colorado State University professor, who specializes in pests and problems affecting Rocky Mountain plants. His books include “Garden Insects of North America,� “Pests of the West� and an upcoming work, “Bugs Rule!�

• R. William Thomas, executive director of Chanticleer near Philadelphia, who leads the development of the young garden using an environmentally sensitive and multicentury approach. He has bachelor’s and master’s degrees in ornamental horticulture from University of Wisconsin-Madison.

• Joseph Tychonievich, nursery manager for Arrowhead Alpines in Fowlerville, Mich., and author of “Creating New Heirlooms: A Gardener’s Guide to Breeding Plants.â€� He has a degree in horticulture from Ohio State University.

In addition to the presentations, the symposium will feature 10-Minute Tips sessions with local gardening experts. The Garden Marketplace at the Shady Side Ice Skating Rink is free and open to the public from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., featuring annuals, perennials, shrubs, seeds and more.

Candy Williams is a contributing writer for Trib Total Media.

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Here are Bay Area home and garden tours that will kick off the springtime tour season. Please check back regularly for later additions.

April 20

Oakland Heritage Alliance’s ‘Great Estates’

(Claremont-Rockridge)

When: 1-4 p.m. Saturday, April 20.

Who benefits: Supports public education and preservation advocacy.

What you’ll see: This self-guided walking tour offers a rare opportunity to see examples of Tudor and Mediterranean revival style homes, including residences designed by Oakland architects William Schirmer and Geoffrey Bangs.

Extras: Light refreshments.

Details: Tickets are $35 if purchased in advance or $40 at the door; $30/$35 OHA members. On-site purchases and advance purchase check-in begins at 12:30 p.m. at St. Peter’s Angelican Church, 6013 Lawton Ave., Oakland. http://oha-greatestates.eventbrite.com.

April 26-27

Gamble Garden

Spring Tour (Palo Alto)

When: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Friday and Saturday, April 26-27

Who benefits: The Elizabeth F. Gamble Garden, a nonprofit community horticultural foundation

What you’ll see: Six private Palo Alto gardens ranging from large estates to corner properties to narrower plots, each showcasing beautiful and innovative landscaping designs.

Extras: Marketplace and plant sale, horticultural resources, live music, box lunch prepared by Cafe Primavera.

Details: Tickets are $35; $30 members; $40 day of tour. Lunch is $15, served from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Lunch must be ordered by April 22. 650-329-1356, www.gamblegarden.org.

CSL Heart of the Home Tour

(Piedmont and Crocker Highlands)

When: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Friday and Saturday, April 26-27

Who benefits: Nonprofit agencies in Alameda and Contra Costa Counties

that serve at-risk children.

What you’ll see: CSL’s Silver Anniversary Home Tour in Piedmont and Crocker Highlands features five architectural gems including a Tudor mansion by Hearst Castle Architect Julia Morgan; an Albert Farr Georgian Colonial with a two-plus story designer showcase; a William Schirmer French Normandy with Hollywood ties and allure; a Newsom Newsom Traditional with designer decor and art; and an award-winning, Platinum LEED Mid-Century Modern.

Extras: Lunch at Piedmont Community Center, boutique, food trucks. VIP Tour Packages available.

Details: Tickets are $45 in advance or $50 on tour days: $55 with lunch. $5 off each ticket for groups of 10 or more. http://wehelpkids.org/.

April 27

Naglee Park Vintage Home Tour

(San Jose)

When: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, April 27

Who benefits: Preservation of the San Jose Woman’s Club building.

What you’ll see: Four homes in a five-block area of Naglee Park, including a landmark once owned by former San Jose Mayor Ernie Fenzel and architectural styles that include ranch, craftsman, Tudor and Spanish Colonial Revival.

Extras: Boutique, talk by historian April Halberstadt, Tea on the Terrace.

Details: Tickets are $30 in advance or $35 day of tour; $25 for SJWC members; $25 for groups of five or more. Tickets for Tea on the Terrace, which must be ordered by April 22, are $30. Tour and Tea cost $55. 408-294-6919, www.sjwomansclub.org.

April 28

Bay-Friendly Garden Tours

When: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday, April 28

Who benefits: The Bay-Friendly Landscaping Gardening Coalition’s program to promote sustainable landscaping and gardening practices throughout the Bay Area.

What you’ll see: Diverse home gardens in Oakland, Castro Valley, San Leandro, Dublin, Pleasanton and Livermore, showcasing natural gardening techniques.

Extras: The guidebook includes coupons, including up to 20 percent off at several local nurseries.

Details: Visit www.bayfriendlygardentour.org to purchase a guidebook with garden descriptions, directions and entrance tickets. Cost is $5 for digital guidebooks or $10 for a hard copy. Purchase hard copies by April 19.

May 4-5

Willow Glen Lifestyles Home Tour

When: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, May 4, and Sunday, May 5.

Who benefits: San Jose Day Nursery scholarships for low-income families.

What you’ll see: Six homes and one spectacular garden, including a new resort-inspired home with state-of-the-art amenities, a recently renovated family ranch-style home. A garden home, open for touring inside and out, will be the setting for box lunches, refreshments, wine tasting, artists and boutiques.

Extras: Boutique, raffle.

Details: Advance tickets are $35 for the tour and $15 for lunch. Available online at www.sjdn.org and Able Printing, Grace on the Avenue and Willow Glen home and Garden. Tickets can be purchased day of tour for $40 (lunch $17) at 1448 Newport Ave., on the tour route. www.sjdn.org/homeTour.

May 5

The Ups and Downs of Hillside Gardening

(Oakland)

When: 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday, May 5

Who benefits: Proceeds help fund scholarships and grants and ongoing efforts to tend public gardens.

What you’ll see: A range of eight Oakland gardens, from a small, native-planted front yard to a meticulously designed serenity garden, each with unique features such as mosaic art and sculpture, clay chickens, a country cabin, decorative metalwork and more.

Extras: A garden-theme boutique offering art, plants and gardening tips.

Details: Tickets are $30 in advance or $35 day of the tour. 510-898-6872, www.hillsidegardeners.com. You may also mail a check, made out to Hillside Gardeners of Montclair, to 3811 Monterey Blvd., Oakland, CA 94619. Include a self-addressed, stamped envelope.

Bay-Friendly Garden Tours

(Napa County)

When: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday, May 5

What you’ll see: Diverse home gardens in Napa County showcasing natural gardening techniques.

Extras: The guidebook includes coupons, including up to 20 percent off at several local nurseries.

Details: Visit www.bayfriendlygardentour.org to purchase a guidebook with garden descriptions, directions and tickets. Cost is $5 for digital guidebooks, or $10 for a hard copy. Purchase hard copies by April 26.

Bringing Back the Natives Garden Tour

(Alameda and Contra Costa counties)

When: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday May 5

What you’ll see: A delightful collection of 50 Alameda County and Contra Costa County gardens ranging from a 30-year-old wildlife oasis to brand new installations, five-acre lots to small front yard gardens, local native plants to natives from throughout California, gardens designed and installed by owners to those designed and installed by professionals.

Extras: Garden talks throughout the day. Companion event: Native Plant Sale Extravaganza, Saturday and Sunday, May 4-5.

Details: Free. Register at www.bringingbackthenatives.net.

May 10-11

AAUW Garden Tour

(Danville-Alamo-Walnut Creek branch)

When: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Friday, May 10, and Saturday, May 11.

Who benefits: AAUW Funds supporting aspiring female scholars.

What you’ll see: Five superb gardens in Alamo and Danville.

Details: Tickets are $30 if purchased before April 30, or $35 at the door; $25/$30 for ages 65 and older. 925-743-1838, http://daw-ca.aauw.net.

May 11-12 Gilroy Impressions Home and Garden Tour

When: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, May 11, and Sunday, May 12.

Who benefits: Youth programs of the Gilroy Assistance League.

What you’ll see: Four showcase homes in the South Valley with designer touches and extensive gardens or landscaping: a Mediterranean style residence, a Spanish Colonial Revival, a traditional home design and one that blends traditional and contemporary.

Extras: Boutique, appetizers, no-host wine at the tour’s conclusion.

Details: Tickets are $25 if purchased before May 8, or $30 at the door. Presale tickets will be held at check-in at 1975 Mantelli Drive, Gilroy. 408-706-6235; www.gilroyassistanceleague.org.

Vintage Home and Garden Tour

(Benicia)

When: 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, May 11.

Who benefits: Benicia Historical Society programs.

What you’ll see: Six vintage homes representing an array of architectural styles, and one charming garden, within walking distance of downtown Benicia.

Details: Tickets are $25 in advance or $30 the day of the tour available at Benicia Main Street, Bookshop Benicia, Camellia Team Room and Steve’s Hallmark. 707-315-6434, 707-746-6689; www.beniciahistoricalsociety.org.

May 18

Lafayette Juniors Kitchen Tour

When: 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, May 18.

Who benefits: Five local nonprofit organizations: Day for Children, Coach Art, Contra Costa Interfaith Housing, Lafayette Library and Learning Center and We Care.

What you’ll see: Six unique Lafayette kitchens in homes ranging in style from farmhouse rustic to Mediterranean.

Extras: Kitchen tour program detailing special design elements and information on the architects, designers and contractors who created the kitchens.

Details: Tickets are $40 ($30 tax deductible), with a box lunch available for $12. Tickets can be purchased from Douglah Designs, and Premier Kitchens, Lafayette; www.lafayettejuniors.org.

May 18-19

Clayton Gardens Tour

When: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, May 18-19.

Who benefits: Clayton Historical Museum.

What you’ll see: Six gardens representing various landscape styles: Creative pathways, secret gardens, outdoor rooms and kitchens, country-style chicken coup, compost areas and container vegetable gardens.

Details: Tickets are $25 in advance. Purchase online, at RM Pool, Patio and Gardens, or send checks, payable to Clayton Gardens Tour, to Clayton Gardens Tour, P.O. Box 94, Clayton, CA, 94517. Tickets sold day of tour, $30, must be purchased at the Clayton Museum. 925-672-0240, www.claytonhistory.org.

May 19

Berkeley Heritage Spring House Tour

When: 1-5 p.m. Sunday, May 19.

Who benefits: Historical preservation in Berkeley.

What you’ll see: Ten spacious historic homes and their parklike gardens above the Claremont Hotel. The houses were constructed between 1909 and 1941, and are all survivors of the 1991 Oakland Hills fire.

Extras: Garden reception.

Details: Tickets are $40; $30 for BAHA members. 510-841-2242, http://berkeleyheritage.com.

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