January 2014
Vol 3, Issue 9


Garden Notes
Garden Notes Logo Bird


 
Greetings from Christianson's!


"...but in the world nothing can be said to be certain except death and taxes."

~Benjamin Franklin

Aw, change.  Perhaps when Benjamin Franklin wrote that the only certainties in life are death and taxes he should have included change.  Change is the certainty behind many of life's uncertainties.  Whether we like it or not, change is inevitable and the turn of the New Year is often used as a marker to make changes.   

 

And so it is with Garden Notes.  It was time for Eve,  the former Editor of Garden Notes, to choose a different path.  She saw the inevitability of changes that needed to happen in her life so she has entrusted me with the momentous task of continuing this publication.  She graciously gave me her blessing to make it my own.  She is a hard act to follow, but I am excited to move forward with this great newsletter, starting with this issue.  New Year, new beginnings for Garden Notes. 

You will see some changes to Garden Notes; new articles and new approaches to old ones.  I look forward to this beginning and the continuation of an old favorite.  I welcome feedback.  After all, this newsletter is for you to enjoy, learn from and treasure. 

And now, to get on with things to come. 

 

 

   

 

 

Debra Lacy,
Certified Professional Horticulturist & Editor
 

 

Seasonal Specials
 
JANUARY HIGHLIGHTS 

 

 
 
Hellebores 
We have many new varieties that were bred in Germany
for a hardy, flower in January

 2014 roses are now available!   


2014 selections of bare root fruit trees, berries & shrubs! 

 

JANUARY SPECIALS

 

January 1 - 31
House & Conservatory Plants
tropical plants for home or greenhouse
(free replanting with plant and pot purchase)
25% off

 

In This Issue
Seasonal Specials
Calendar Highlights
The Garden in January
Great Design Plants
Fresh Ideas
January Classes & Events
Closing Thought
Quick Links

 

 2014 Rose List

 

Garden Gazette: April - June 2013  

Garden Gazette: Archives  

 

Christianson's Nursery

   

La Conner Chamber of Commerce  

Mt Vernon Chamber of Commerce

  

Where To Find Us

Basic Logo

 

15806 Best Road

Mount Vernon, WA  98273

Map and directions 

www.christiansonsnursery.com 

 

360-466-3821

1-800-585-8200

 

Winter Hours 

Open daily 9 am - 5 pm

 

Spring Hours
Starting March 1
Open daily 9 am - 6 pm

      

Weekly Radio Broadcast: 

Sunday Mornings at 10:30 am 

 The Garden Show
with John and Mike
KAPS AM 660 

 

Voted Best Greenhouse and Nursery

in Skagit Publishing's

People's Choice Awards for

2010, 2011 and 2012 

   

NW Flower & Garden Show

"People's Choice Award 2011"

    

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Calendar Highlights
classtop
Upcoming Classes & Events

.: JANUARY :.

Saturday, January 18
11 am:  Which Path to Take?

Saturday, January 25
11 am:  Impressionist Flower & Garden Photography

.: FEBRUARY :.

Saturday, February 1

11 am:  Basic Rose Pruning

Saturday, February 15
11 am:  Basic Fruit Tree Pruning

Saturday, February 22-23
Eighth Annual Winter Festival: A Fascination for Hellebores 
featuring guest speaker Riz Reyes, Saturday, February 22, 11 am 
Hellebores: A Primer for Gardeners & Floral Designers 

Sunday, February 23
11 am:  How to Prune...So You Don't Have To Prune So Often

.: MARCH :.

Saturday, March 1

11 am:  Espalier Pruning

Sunday, March 2
1 pm:  The Shade Garden

Saturday, March 15
11 am:  Renovating Old Fruit Trees

Sunday, March 16
1 - 3:30 pm:  Beginning Bonsai Workshop

Saturday, March 22
1 - 2:30 pm:  Workshop: What To Do with Spring Prunings?

Sunday, March 23
1 pm:  Landscaping with a Purpose

Saturday, March 29 
11 am:  Species Rhododendrons: Not Your Father's Rhodies

Saturday, March 29
1 pm:  Spring Walk with John Christianson

These classes are very popular and fill up quickly. Please call us soon to reserve your spot at 1-800-585-8200.
 
 
For more information visit our web site at

The Garden in January
by Rachel Anderson

 

Most people try pretty hard to not go outside in the winter around here.  I can't blame them too much; after all, it's usually wet, cold, dark, blustery, or any combination of said winter weather (sometimes it's all at the same time and then some!)  However, I've really come to appreciate our winters in the Pacific Northwest, and here's why:  

 

Read more......  



Rachel has been gardening since childhood, thanks to her mom, and has been part of the team at Christianson's since 2002.  She's a Certified Professional Horticulturist with a passion for roses and vegetable gardening.  Rachel and her family enjoy gardening together and now share their urban garden with a menagerie of ducks, chickens, two cats, and a dog.
   

Great Design Plants

Hot Plants for A Cold January

 

The garden in winter doesn't have to look as bleak as our winter months feel. Winter blooming plants brighten a garden, provide food for birds and create visual interest. In our area, a great time to plant is now, as long as the ground isn't frozen. In fact, January is bare root season too. So, get out that spade because here's a list of plants that will brighten your garden in January:

 

Bare Root Fruit Trees and Shrubs - Locally Grown in the Skagit Valley
This is prime time to plant your favorite edible trees and shrubs because they come to us bare root. Bare root plants are easy to plant, adapt well to your garden conditions and provide an abundance of fruit for your table and they cost 30% less than their counterparts sold in pots. We have many different varieties of apples, pears, cherries, frost peach, blueberries, raspberries, currents and brambles.

Twig Dogwoods:

Cornus stolonifera 'Arctic Fire'

This compact selection of red twig dogwood has dark red stems that provide a spectacular show in the winter sunlight. Unlike most Cornus that reach 8 to 10 feet tall, Arctic Fire grows to only half the height. Great in perennial or shrub borders, or used in flower arrangements. Full sun to part shade. Hardy in USDA zones 3-7.

Cornus sanguinea
'Arctic Sun'
Arctic Sun is a dwarf bloodtwig dogwood cultivar that is noted for its winter show of bright yellow stems tipped in red. At 3 - 4 feet tall and wide, it is a great variety for that small space in the landscape that needs a little punch. The tiny white spring flowers give way to fruit that is quite attractive to birds. Full sun to part shade. Hardy in USDA zones 4 - 9.




Cornus sanguinea
'Arctic Sun'
Helleborus Gold Collection 
'Merlin' 
Helleborus Gold Collection 
'Jacob'

Helleborus Gold Collection�
- Locally Grown in the Skagit Valley
This outstanding series brings magical, new life to winter and early spring-blooming Hellebores. Flowering the first year, they are long blooming, with lots of buds and blossom. An improvement over the species, the large flowers are forward facing, showing off their beauty. These plants are deer resistant, form a good ground cover and are choice perennials for shady borders. Also, they are outstanding in patio tubs or planters and should be placed where their early flowers can be appreciated. Hardy down to USDA zone 4.

Camellia cultivars
Camellias can't be beat for their mid-winter beauty and blooms. Many cultivars are either fall or early spring blooming, but here are three mid-winter blooming varieties:
C. sasanqua 'Yultide':
Single, brilliant, fiery red blooms centered with bright yellow stamens make this a beautiful addition to the winter garden. Blossoms stand out in high contrast against glossy, dark green foliage. Excellent choice for a colorful hedge or screen, espalier, and border shrub. Evergreen. 8-10 feet tall and wide. Hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
C. japonica 'Nuccio's Gem':
Its sparkling white, formal, double blooms contrast well with the glossy, dark green foliage. This mid-winter bloomer is a prized plant for a protected area in your landscape. Evergreen. 6 - 8 feet tall and wide. Hardy in USDA zones 7 - 10.
C. japonica 'Nuccio's Pearl':
Spectacular, fully double blooms with pure white petals edged with an orchid pink blush. Flowers make a dazzling contrast with the glossy, dark green foliage. Add an elegant, formal appearance to your garden! A great specimen for a protected area in your landscape. Evergreen. 6 - 8 feet tall and wide. Hardy in USDA zones 7 - 10.




Camellia sasanqua
'Yultide'
Camellia japonica
'Nuccio's Gem'
Camellia japonica
'Nuccio's Pearl'

Other Notable Plants for Winter Interest:

Rhododendron mucronulatum 'Cornell Pink':
Korean rhododendron is noted for its unusual (for rhododendrons) deciduous habit and for its midwinter flowering period, making it one of the earliest blooming varieties. It is native to Korea, Japan and northern China. It is a dense, upright, deciduous shrub which typically grows to a mature height of 4-8' tall and as wide. 'Cornell Pink' features clear pink flowers, with no hints of purple or lavender. Flowers bloom in clusters at the branch before the foliage emerge. Hardy in USDA zones 4 - 7.

Sarcococca ruscifolia:
A great shrub for shady areas! White flowers are inconspicuous but they sure pack a punch! By the end of January, your whole yard will fill with fragrance. When the blooms are done bright red fruit appear. An outstanding choice for dry shade gardens where other plants won't grow! Evergreen. Slow growing to 3 - 5 feet tall and wide. Part to full shade. Hardy in USDA zones 7 - 9.

Hamamelis x intermedia 'Diane':
If you have the space, the Diane witch hazel is the plant for a winter garden. Prized for its copper-red to red flowers, it is considered one of the best of the red flowering varieties. Plus the rich, orange-red fall color can't be beat. A popular European introduction. Deciduous. Grows to 10 feet tall and 20 feet wide. Full sun. Hardy in USDA zones 5-9.

Mahonia x media 'Charity':
This statuesque, evergreen shrub is a stellar specimen for the winter shade garden. It has dramatic, frond-like leaves that grow in whorls along its coarsely branched stems. Great sprays of soft yellow flowers appear in winter, developing into clusters of black berries by late summer and fall. Flowers and fruit attracts birds including, hummingbirds and its beautiful foliage and upright growth habit make this selection a strong focal point in the garden. Evergreen.  Grows 10 -15 tall. Part sun to part shade. Hardy in USDA zones 7-9.

Forsythia 'Show Off':
This new compact selection offers a superior flower display over older varieties. It is covered from base to tips with large bright yellow blooms in early spring. The attractive dark green foliage, unlike other Forsythia's, provides season long interest. Excellent as a short hedge, in mixed borders and foundations, or as a cut flower. Grows 5 - 6 feet tall and wide. Partial to full sun. Hardy in USDA zones 4 - 8.

Jasminum nudiflorum
A broad, mounding or vining shrub, winter jasmine has bright, lemon yellow flowers before the leaves unfold. Slender, bright green stems make an attractive show in the winter landscape. Great covering for steep slopes, spilling over a wall or planted in groups. Deciduous. Can be trained on a trellis to 15 feet tall. Full sun. Hardy in USDA zones 6 - 9.

Erica x darleyensis 'Kramer's Rote':
An old favorite, Kramer's Rote heath is a plant that establishes quickly to create a fine, dense groundcover or border. Mounding, evergreen shrub with terrific winter color, its magenta-red flowers last through early spring. Full sun. Hardy in USDA zones 4-9.

Pinus contorta 'Chief Joseph':
This garden conifer has a compact tight shape bearing needles in bundles of two. During the summer months its foliage is green, as would be the case for shore pine (Pinus contorta var. contorta ) but in early fall it morphs to a glowing yellow color which is retained until the following spring, when it once again reverts to green. This plant only grows 2"-4" each year. As with other dwarf conifers it typically will not exceed a height of 6' after 10 years. Full Sun. Hardy in USDA zones 5 - 9.




Rhododendron mucronulatum 
'Cornell Pink' 
Hamamelis x intermedia
'Diane' 
Pinus contorta
'Chief Joseph' 

Fresh Ideas

Here's an assortment of fun ideas, helpful tips and great recipes for January.  Simply click on a photo you like (or the link below the photo) to learn more. We hope you enjoy this month's collection of fresh ideas!

The Art of Espalier. See our class on Espalier Pruning, March 1.
(photo courtesy of Houzz)
 Provencal Chicken Stew Recipe
For the slow cooker 
From Epicurious 

Upcoming Classes & Events   
 

.: JANUARY :. January 

   

Saturday, January 18

Which Path To Take? 
11 am - Noon 
(reservations required - $8 class fee)

 

Walkways play an important role in allowing access through the garden and to the planting beds during all seasons of the year. Garden Designer, Dawn Chaplin will focus on surface or Ground Plane of the garden and will examine a variety of styles and materials commonly used to build attractive and functional walkways, paths and patios. She will illustrate several design concepts and hardscape options with images taken while visiting gardens in Europe, Australia, New Zealand and the USA.  

 

Saturday, January 25  

Impressionist Flower & Garden Photography 
11 am - Noon 
(reservations required - $8 class fee)
    

Inspired by the nineteenth Century French Impressionist painters, more and more garden photographers are discovering with long exposures, they can use their cameras as a "digital paintbrush." This class will teach photographers of all levels how to "paint with their camera" using shutter speed to reveal flows of motion and form not otherwise noticed or recordable with automatic camera settings. Time will be budgeted for "hands-on" demonstrations in the nursery at the conclusion of the forty-five minute classroom presentation.

 

 

.: FEBRUARY :. February 

 

Saturday, February 1  

Basic Rose Pruning 
11 am - Noon 
(reservations required - $8 class fee)

Learn the tried and true techniques for pruning roses. Rosarian John Harmeling, will teach the three steps of pruning for health, shape and best bloom quality. Whether you have tea, rugosa or climbing roses, this class will guide you towards keeping your roses healthy and blooming for years to come.

 

 

 

 

  

  

  

 

Wednesday - Friday, February 5 - 9   

Buses to the NW Flower & Garden Show 
(reservations required - $53 pre-paid, round trip only)

This year, the Northwest Flower and Garden Show takes place February 5 - 9. We are happy once again to offer our "Flower Buses" so you can enjoy the show without the stress of driving and finding parking. Buses leave the Nursery at 8:30 a.m. and return at around 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, February 5, 6 and 7. The cost of a combination show ticket and bus ride is $53. Call the Nursery today (360-466-3821) to reserve your space. The nursery also has early bird tickets for just the show ($17 per person, a $5 saving over the at-the-door price). While at the show, check out the great plants we have for sale at the
Treasure Island booth.

   

Saturday, February 15    

Basic Fruit Tree Pruning 
11 am - Noon 
(reservations required - $8 class fee)

 

A glorious palette of colors and sensuous array of textures can delight you in the garden during fall and winter, and Ani Gurnee of Aulos Design has inspired ideas to help you make the most of the cool seasons. She'll guide you with plant choices and tips for pruning to enhance seasonal beauty.


Saturday, February 22    

Eighth Annual Winter Festival: A Fascination for Hellebores
Featuring Riz Reyes - Hellebores: A Primer for Gardeners and Floral Designers 
11 am - Noon 
(reservations required - Complimentary)

As part of the Christianson's Nursery Winter Festival, award winning garden designer Riz Reyes, will present the basic types, culture, breeding of Hellebores. He will also discuss using them in the garden and containers. After his presentation, Riz will demonstrate how to incorporate Hellebores as cut flowers into floral designs.

 

Sunday, February 23      

How to Prune...So You Don't Have To Prune So Often 
1 pm - 2 pm 
(reservations required - $8 class fee)

Great looking plants with less work and waste.  Come learn how in this talk by arborist and horticultural consultant Chris Pfeiffer, about ways to use the right methods, tools and timing for the most effective pruning of garden shrubs and trees.

 

 

 

Back to Calender Highlights  

.: MARCH :. March

 

Saturday, March 1    

Espalier Pruning 
11 am - Noon 
(reservations required - $8 class fee)

 

Learn how to create and maintain beautiful Espalier fruit trees. Ani Gurnee of Aulos Design will take you through the steps that will help ensure good form and success with this age old pruning form. Learn what ornamental trees and shrubs also take well to Espalier.

 

Sunday, March 2     

The Shade Garden
1 pm - 2 pm 
(reservations required - $8 class fee)

 

Shade gardening may seem like a challenge with so many perennials, shrubs and trees demanding full sun to perform. However, the spring and fall shade garden can be full of flowers. Whether under deciduous or evergreen trees, or on the north side of buildings, learn how to best fill your shady places with beautiful foliage and flowers that thrive in these special places throughout the growing year. Realize the potential of these areas for calm, even meditative garden areas. Join Kathy Hirdler Floribunda Designs of in discovering the joys of shade gardening in our great Northwest.  

 

Saturday, March 15    

Renovating Old Fruit Trees 
11 am - Noon 
(reservations required - $8 class fee)

 

Over time, fruit trees can lose vigor or suffer the consequences of neglect. Ani Gurnee of Aulos Design will explain the benefits of renovating old fruit trees and the best approach and techniques to use in order to achieve added production in your trees.

 

Sunday, March 16      

Beginning Bonsai Workshop 
1 pm - 3:30 pm 
(reservations required - $86 class fee, includes matierials. Class size limit - 12)

 

Learn hands-on basics of creating a beautiful bonsai from expert, Tori Lenze. Students will learn how to design and transplant a tree and how to use different tools for shaping. Class fee includes all materials including bonsai pot, plant, soil and screening. Students bring small pruners, scissors and gloves. Additional tools and supplies available for purchase.

 

Saturday, March 22 

Workshop: What To Do With Spring Prunings? Plant a Chair. 
1 pm - 2:30 pm 
(reservations required - $40 class fee, some materials included)
 
 Join Laura Campbell, renowned wreath weaver, as she guides you through the making of a living chair for your home or garden. Bring your own chair (wood or metal), preferably with an open back or seat and don't forget pruners and gloves! We'll provide the vines and planting infrastructure and with expert guidance you'll weave around the chair creating the "bones" to support your plantings. A little chicken wire and moss provide the "pot." When you're done, stroll the nursery to select and purchase the plants for your new garden chair! 

Sunday, March 23     

Landscaping with a Purpose 
11 am - Noon 
(reservations required - $8 class fee)

 

In the 21st century, gardens and landscapes are called to be more than beautiful spaces filled with color and fragrance.  Today's gardens are stormwater facilities that produce renewable and basic resources, prevent erosion, benefit air quality, feed their inhabitants both critters and people and mitigate habitat for wildlife. Come and learn why and how from Certified Low Impact Development specialist Zsofia Pasztor, to transform your garden to a modern environment!

 

 

Saturday, March 29   

Species Rhododendrons: These Are Not Your Father's Rhodies! 
11 am - noon  
(reservations required - $8 class fee)

 

Bob Zimmermann of Chimacum Woods will explore the distinctly different world of species rhododendrons. These plants don't look like the rhodies most of us are used to. They offer a broad range of leaf shapes, colors and patterns.  Bob, has been raising species rhodies from seed for forty years and has just returned from his fifth rhody exploration in China. He will describe and show pictures of some of the most interesting species, including many available at the nursery.


Saturday, March 29   

Spring Garden Walk with John Christianson 
1 pm - 2 pm 
(reservations requested - Complimentary)

Join John Christianson for his first tour of the year through the lovely English style gardens of La Conner Flats located next to the nursery. Meet John in front of the schoolhouse then stride over to La Conner Flats to see what plants are showing an inspiring early spring display. Waterproof shoes and raingear are recommended depending on the weather.

 

 

 

Classes fill up fast so reserve your spot soon.
Please call us at 360-466-3821 or 1-800-585-8200

Closing Thought...
Photo by Harlain Ruff (Pinterest)
The garden suggests there might be a place where we can meet nature halfway. ~Michael Pollan  
Garden Notes Editor:
Debra Lacy, Public Relations
Christianson's Nursery & Greenhouse
360-466-3821