McShane's Nursery
February Newsletter

 

I'm reminded daily how blessed we are to live in such an amazing place like the Central Coast of California. As we continue through winter, now, more than ever, we have plenty to do in the garden. 3 things I'd stress...
 
Roses & Fruit Trees: Now is the time to prune, spray and fertilize. It is not too late to catch one of our free seminars. The best spray is a copper concentrate spray diluted to a solution of 2 ounces per gallon. Check out our videos on Spraying and Pruning Fruit Trees The absolute best fertilizer is Dr. Earth. I always recommend folks apply it along with a nice top dress of Gold Rush Planting Mix. Your trees will be ready to put out in the spring. I also want to remind folks about our Fruit Tree Grafting Workshop with my great friend, Joe Sabol.
It is scheduled for Saturday, February 22nd at 1:30PM and requires an RSVP. The cost is only $6 and everyone goes home with their own grafted fruit tree!!!

Mulching, Bark Replenishment & Weed Control: Our landscape supply is ready to help you cover up in an effort to keep your landscapes beautiful and free of weeds. I recommend small bark, gorilla hair & even gravels. Always use weed fabric. As soil is the key to our happy gardens, I recommend folks bring in a few yards of our 50/50 mix or high grade organic compost for top dressing around important shrubs, roses and fruit trees. As I tell people all the time, "Feed your soil and your soil will feed your plants."

Landscape Coaching & Design: Finally, I want to drive home the importance of having a plan for your garden or landscape. We have a team of trusted designers that can be called upon for consulting or full-fledged designs which can be bid out to landscape contractors. 

Again and again, I welcome you to celebrate the wonderful world of gardening and landscaping. It is still America's favorite hobby and will bring more joy to your life than you could ever imagine.

Steve
 

Steve McShane 

Owner & General Manager 

steve@mcshanesnursery.com 

(831) 455-1876

 



Mon. - Fri. 7am - 5pm
Sat. 8am - 5pm
Sun. 9am - 4pm

"What's in a name? That which we call a rose by any other name would smell as sweet."  -
William Shakespeare
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WHAT'S NEW AT MCSHANE'S...
FRUIT TREES - 20% Off Winter Pricing
  

 

Fruit Trees are now 20% off special "winter pricing." We have a brand new stock with LOADS to choose from. And make sure to check out our Fruit Tree Pruning Demonstration on February 8th at 1:30pm at McShane's Nursery. 
 

 

 Read: How To Properly Prune Fruit Trees 

 

NEW PRUNING TOOLS IN STOCK - 20% Off
  

Top of the line, quality clippers for your gardening are now on sale, and just in time for the pruning season! Normally $19.99, take 20% off and pay only $15.99!

 

Remember to check out this month's Fruit Tree Pruning Demonstration! 

 

 

PICK UP ROSES FOR YOUR VALENTINE 
Special Winter Pricing Going on NOW!
  

  

WOW! We are getting in some gorgeous new roses. We have a special winter pricing on all roses right now. Only $22.99! Take one home for your valentine today.

 

Also, don't forget to spray, prune, mulch, and feed!!! Really important to feed your roses right now so that they do well!

 

   

 View: 2014 Rose List

 

  

Watch: How to Care for a Rose

  

 
 
It's a JUNGLE in the McShane's Greenhouse!

Have you been into our greenhouse lately? WOW. We have LOADS of large houseplants in here right now. Did you know that a study at The Royal College of Agriculture in Circencester, England, found that students demonstrate 70 percent greater attentiveness when they're taught in rooms containing plants.

 

Watch: How to Choose an Indoor Houseplant

  

HUGE Blow Out on Olive and Palm Trees!
  

24 inch box Olive Trees and Palm Trees- Buy 2, get 1 free or 33% off. We have tons of "European" Non-Fruiting Olives. Normal price: $299.99 - Sale Price: $199.99. Mature and BEAUTIFUL! Special for the month of February only. 

 

Fish and Herb Aquariums Now Available!
  

 

Grow fresh produce right in the comfort of your own home- beans, basil, thyme, baby greens, oregano, mint, parsley, spinach and more- while your pet fish swim below in a specially designed aquaponic tank garden. 

  

In a beautifully simple, closed-loop ecosystem, the home aquaponics kit uses the fish waste to naturally fertilize the plants above. In turn, the plants clean the water for your pets. Just add fish and watch your system take off.

 

Includes: 
-Tank and garden top. 
- Air pump to bring your nutrients up and oxygenate the water. 
- 5 pots with pebbles (from which the plants will grow). 
- Organic seeds (mixture of various herbs). 

- Fish food and water conditioners to get started right away.

Steve says, "FERTILIZE NOW!!!!"
Winter is a TRULY the BEST time to apply soil building mulch and organic fertilizer!!!  Steve recommends "Bumper Crop" and E.B. Stone Brand Organic Fertilizer to be applied around the base / under the drip lines of all plants in your yard.  This will give your landscape the necessary two or three months for things to "break down" and be absorbed into the soil.  Both brands are available now at McShane's Nursery.

  

  

LANDSCAPE SUPPLY
Save Water with Pavers!

One quick and great way to save water is to pave your yard with pavers. You want the best value with the lowest maintenance? A paver patio is the way to go. We offer large quantity discounts.

 
We Sell Artificial Turf.
  

McShane's Landscape Department sells artificial turf! Artificial turf is a surface of synthetic fibers made to look like natural grass. Many people now use it for residential landscaping, and the main reason is maintenance - artificial turf stands up to heavy use, such as in sports, and requires no irrigation or trimming.

 

 
Control Weeds!
 
Apply bark and rock to control weeds. Don't forget to first lay down your weed fabric. McShane's Landscape Department carries eerythign you need to help your garden fight off weeds.  We also have a large selection of tools for sale and rent to help get you started on your gardening project. 
Call (831)455-1369 with any questions!
 
 
In-House Charge Accounts at McShane's
  
We want to help make your next project run as smoothly and quickly as possible. McShane's Nursery now does in-house charge accounts. Applications are available at the nursery and are processed as quickly as 2 days! For more information call one of our garden experts today: (831)455-1876
 
 
POND DEPARTMENT
Plastic Pond Liners at McShane's

Easy install for a pond in YOUR backyard. Nothing is more soothing than the sound of moving water. It's easy and affordable to add a water garden to your landscape. Our garden pond cut outs are perfect for the first time water gardener. They are easy to install, durable and perfect for any yard or garden. 

 

We have water gardens that will fit in any yard or on a deck or patio. If you have any questions on whether or not a pond cut out is right for you, give our Pond Department Manager, Jeramey McAffery a call at (831) 455-1876.

 

Winter Pond Tips
KOI
General tips:
Some other considerations about keeping fish alive in winter are feeding and general health. During the winter, the fish go into a dormant stage where their digestive system shuts down. If food is trapped in their system when this happens, it can cause them severe health problems, even death. It is wise not to feed the fish when the water temp is below 50 degrees. When the water temp is below 60 degrees, an easily digestible food is advised. Food that contains a high concentration of wheat germ is good. Adding trace minerals and vitamins to the diet is also advised at any time.


Debris:  Are you keeping leaves, twigs and other debris out of your pond? It is important to remove leaves as some leaves can turn the water brown and can be toxic to fish. 

 

Plant Care:
 When the water temperature of the pond drops, many lilies automatically go dormant. If any new leaves appear, they will be very small and will remain under the water, close to the soil. As the foliage browns, simply prune and lower the lily to the deepest part of the pond. Be sure to cut back all water plants if you have not already done so.

 

Any Other Questions? Call the McShane's Pond Doctor!!!

 

Our trained staff is ready to come to your home or business and check on your pond. Our in house "Pond Doctor" will be able to give recommendations on how to best get your pond or water feature in tip-top shape again. Simply call / email our Pond Department Manager, Jeramey McAffery to set up an appointment at:  jeramey@mcshanesnursery.com or Call (831) 455-1876  

 

Attend a FREE Spring Pond Seminar
Free Spring Pond Seminar at McShane's Nursery
Saturday, March 1, 1:30pm 
 
 Are you ready for Springtime?! Its coming fast, (March 20th!) and we want your pond to be koi and lily pad ready! Join us for this free seminar on setting up the perfect pond in your garden!
 
You will be able to ask questions, network with other pond enthusiasts and owners, and get first-hand expert advice! 
 
LANDSCAPE DESIGN
Several Benefits to Landscape Design
In addition to the aesthetic reasons for adding trees, shrubs and ground cover around your home, there are beneficial purposes that go beyond merely adding architectural decoration. While landscaping works to enhance and complement a space, it can also provide real benefits that affect the profitability, health, productivity, and overall sense of well being.

The design of the landscape in conjunction with your overall lot and home's architectural design can create a place where your family and friends will want to spend time and socialize.  Trees, shrubs, and ground cover in conjunction with patios and/or gazebos, can become spaces that can be used for parties, outdoor dining, casual drinks, or simply taking a break.  

We are offering 20% off on our Design Services!
We want to help you design a plan for your residential or commercial space during the winter months! The best outdoor environments have a design in mind before the first shovel of ground is moved. Please take our online survey to help get you started by clicking here!
 
Call our Nursery to speak to one of our in-house designers today. (831)455-1876

McShane's Does Plant Rentals
Beautify Your  Next Event!
 
Do you have a special event coming up? McShane's Nursery rents plants! Plants are delivered and picked back up. They can be dressed in burlap or placed in decorative pots. 
 
Please contact us for more details: (831)455-1876 or info@mcshanesnursery.com

Events
FEBRUARY EVENT SCHEDULE 
Fruit Tree Pruning Demonstration
Saturday, February 8, 1:30pm 

 
Come watch a Certified Arborist and Master Gardener demonstrate how to prune fruit trees. He will teach us how to do it and why it is necessary for great production and tree health. 

 

 

 

  

All About Orchids Workshop
Saturday, February 15, 1:30pm 

 
Come and learn the tips and tricks to growing and maintaining outstanding orchids! Workshop is FREE. 

 

 

 

  

Annual Tree Grafting Workshop
Saturday, February 22, 1:30pm 

 
Come watch, learn, and practice easy techniques for Fruit Tree Grafting with retired Cal Poly Professor, Joe Sabol. Class fee of $6 includes instruction, grafting materials and a 1 gallon grafted fruit tree that you get to take home!

---RSVP to us at (831)455-1876 as soon as possible as space is limited for this thrilling class.

 

 

  

FEBRUARY GARDENING TIPS 
Garden in the Rain!
Don't let these small winter showers keep you inside. NOW is the time to get out into your garden and do a little weed control! Pull up dandelions and thistles While the soil is wet, you stand a good chance of getting the taproot out whole. In dry soils it invariably snaps off then regrows. Act now before the flowers set seed. 
Apply Weed and Feed!
NOW is the time to apply a "weed and feed" to give your lawn some necessary food and cut out any weeds.
 
McShane's Nursery carries some great products for you to try out. We also have weed and feed spreaders. Come in today to insure that your lawn is beautiful come this spring.


Use Weed Emergent!
Pick Up Some "Concern" Weed Emergent at the Nursery

Available at McShanes. Consider "Concern" Weed Emergent for weed control.

All natural weed & feed (8-2-4) for use on lawns. Derived from corn gluten meal, bone meal and potassium sulfate, Weed Prevention Plus provides a fast green-up and will not burn. Prevents crabgrass, dandelions and many other common weeds. Pelleted for easy application. Safe for people, pets and wildlife 
Time to Plant Spring Bulbs!
It is not too late for spring bulbs! Mcshane's Nursery has an assortment of tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths.  
 
4 Tips for Planting Bulbs:
 
1. When scouting your yard for the best place to grow bulbs, look for spots where the soil isn't constantly damp (excessive moisture can cause them to rot). Avoid areas near your hose or sprinkler system. And plan for height. Small snowdrops, for instance, are ideal for front borders, while giant tulips and allium should be placed toward the back of your garden.

2. To plant, dig out the soil to the recommended depth and loosen the surrounding dirt to improve drainage and help root development. If the soil is very dry, water so it's workable. Mix sandy soil with peat moss or leaf compost to fertilize. For claylike soil, add sand or peat moss. Avoid using strong commercial fertilizer or fresh manure.
Place the bulbs firmly into position with the pointed side facing up and follow the package instructions for spacing. (Leaving larger spacing than recommended between your bulbs won't harm them, but it doesn't offer the best effect.) Cover the bulbs with soil and water. In cold areas, layer two or three inches of mulch on top. Just be sure to remove the mulch in early spring when the first foliage shoots emerge. 

3. If you're preparing a flower bed, dig out the entire area with a shovel. This will ensure that all your bulbs bloom simultaneously. To plant individual bulbs - those with large flowers that make their own showcase or in spots with tree roots that you don't want to disturb - dig one hole at a time with a trowel or bulb planter.

4. How far to dig? Each bulb species has its own planting depth. Follow the directions on the bulb packaging or use this rule of "green" thumb: Bury each bulb about three times as deep as its diameter. If you're planting bulbs in extremely cold areas, go slightly deeper, "but make sure the subsurface area is well-drained," adds Obal. Measure the depth from the soil's surface to the shoulder of the bulb.


 
GARDEN TO TABLE
Creme Brulee
Sweeten your Valentine's Day with a scrumptious and romantic dessert recipe. You will win your sweetie's heart with this delectable creme brulee recipe!
 
 
Ingredients
1 quart heavy cream
1 vanilla bean, split and scraped
1 cup vanilla sugar, divided
6 large egg yolks
2 quarts hot water

Directions
Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F.

Place the cream, vanilla bean and its pulp into a medium saucepan set over medium-high heat and bring to a boil. Remove from the heat, cover and allow to sit for 15 minutes. Remove the vanilla bean and reserve for another use.

In a medium bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup sugar and the egg yolks until well blended and it just starts to lighten in color. Add the cream a little at a time, stirring continually. Pour the liquid into 6 (7 to 8-ounce) ramekins. Place the ramekins into a large cake pan or roasting pan. Pour enough hot water into the pan to come halfway up the sides of the ramekins. Bake just until the creme brulee is set, but still trembling in the center, approximately 40 to 45 minutes. Remove the ramekins from the roasting pan and refrigerate for at least 2 hours and up to 3 days.

Remove the creme brulee from the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes prior to browning the sugar on top. Divide the remaining 1/2 cup vanilla sugar equally among the 6 dishes and spread evenly on top. Using a torch, melt the sugar and form a crispy top. Allow the creme brulee to sit for at least 5 minutes before serving.

Like this recipe?

 
"DID YOU KNOW?" - Fun Garden Facts
Ancient Greeks and Romans thought basil would only grow if you screamed wild curses and shouted while sowing the seeds. 


Cilantro was one of the plants growing in the Hanging Gardens of Babylon more than 2,500 years ago! 
Got a cold? Green sweet bell peppers have twice the vitamin C of oranges. Red and yellow bell peppers have four times as much.
Onions, apples and potatoes all have the same taste. The difference in flavor is caused by their smell. Pinch your nose and try it - they will all taste sweet.

IN OTHER NEWS...
We are Hiring for Spring!
 
McShane's Nursery will be hiring for spring. Please fill out an application online available at the link below:
 


Website Makeover
The McShane's Nursery Website Has a New Look!
 
 The McShane's Nursery website finally has a face lift that we can all be very proud of! We are adding new content every day so take a look around and let us know what you think. Are you looking for a specific article of information? Let us know. We will be happy to add it to the website. As time goes on, you will even find an archive of all our past newsletters.
 
Thank you for your support during the website transition and for continuing to grow with us! Check out the website at www.mcshanesnursery.com.

SOCIALIZE WITH MCSHANE'S
Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Yelp, Youtube, Foursquare... Whew! McShane's is all over social media! Take a minute to Like, Follow, Pin, Review, Watch, and Check-In with us! We love running contests and specials for our social media followers. 

Like us on Facebook       Follow us on Twitter       Find us on Pinterest       

Find us on Yelp       View our videos on YouTube

                
Have you unlocked our check-in special on Foursquare yet? Download the free Foursquare app in your smart phones app store and start following McShane's Nursery and unlocking specials!

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