Daylilies

The fourth in Oklahoma was most unusual by being a total wash-out this year. The rain was unexpected and we may thank Hurricane Alex for our good fortune. For in spite of disappointing campers and flooding some areas, receiving rain and cool temperatures for the beginning of July is truly a blessing! Our poor neighbors in the North East are ill prepared for the heat dome that usually arrives here after the wheat harvest, and it seems determined to punish Yankees who never thought they would need air conditioning.

The day lilies are in full bloom now. It has traveled on a long journey from the standard orange as hybridization has ushered in countless varieties that thrill the collector. A hardy plant, the daylily is an ancient flower first found growing wild in forests, swamps, meadows and mountains throughout China, Mongolia, Northern India, Japan and Korea. It was in early China that daylilies were taken from the wild and planted in gardens as they were thought to be uplifting to the spirit. And it is the Chinese who thought the buds to be nutritious while the roots were used as painkillers and diuretics.

The botanical name of the bloomer, Hemerocallis, is based on the Greek words for "beauty" and "day" for each flower opens and lasts a single day. References to daylilies first appeared in Europe and the Mediterranean in the 1500s and the Swedish naturalist Carl Linnaeus gave the daylily its generic name in 1753.

As Daylilies arrived in United States in the early 1900s they were greeted with great enthusiasm and in the 1920s, Dr. A.B. Stout, a botanist from Wisconsin, began extensive hybrid programs and has been called ‘The Father of Modern Daylilies’. In 1946, the American Hemerocallis Society was founded and in 1955, the organization became the official registry for all types of daylilies. There is such interest and excitement amongst Daylily lovers that there are over 330 American Hemerocallis Society Display Gardens throughout the United States and parts of Canada.

Some varieties of daylily are unusual for their shapes. The crispate form has pinched or folded tips on half of the petals. The cascade form has petals that bend low and outward, as if cascading down the flower stem. The spatulate form has petals that widen toward the edges. Some daylilies have straight or smooth edges on their petals, while others have ruffled petals or jagged edges. A picotee edge is ruffled and colored to match the eye on the petals. Ruffling occurs when the petals appear to have crimped edges.

When the children were little we played an evening game of snapping off the days spent flower… which issued a rather loud pop as it was broken from the stem. By removing the spent flower, longer blooming was encouraged and the flower of the next morning appeared on a tidy stem. Regardless of the shape or color, a variety of Daylilies are perfect guests arriving at the garden party during the height of Summer.

*Check out http://www.daylilies.org/

Grasshoppers and Guinea Fowl

What does one do when the organic garden is suddenly over run with vicious pests? Almost over night, the garden was inundated with grasshoppers. The hatching's were pale green with a baby look that appeared almost cute but a week later they were adolescents changing into brown. The following week they were rough scaled and fully armed adult eating machines… with a canny intuition and wings. How can a grasshopper instinctually move from one side of a stem to another, hiding from capture? With their famous chewing mouth parts, the ability to ’spit tobacco’ and their thorny back legs they seem a product of a sci-fi horror film. Not to mention their inclusion in the Bible as the eighth plague on Egypt before the Exodus.



As one walks through the garden they may be heard unseen and rustling, then wing whishing and plopping from one plant to another. They have fully decimated my lovely dinner plate Dahlia, stripping the leaves with plague-like precision, even eating parts of the flower and half of the buds. The final straw was ruining my lovely Stargazer. What to do, particularly since the butterflies are spectacular, the dragonflies a delight, the bee population has recovered, and the lazy drone of the Cicadas soothes? To use pesticide on the hoards of invading grasshoppers would kill all of the beneficial and aesthetic insects, leaving me with a silent albeit lovely garden.




Fortunately there is a time honored and efficient answer to the problem which does not involve any spraying, dusting or trapping. Simply purchase a few Guinea Fowl! Since grasshoppers are their favorite delicacy, they will move quietly through the garden eating along the way. They do not favor flowers or vegetables making them far more desirable than chickens, who will scratch and stomp them to death. However there are a few important rules involved in owning Guinea Fowl.



The guys purchased five adults on Father’s Day for Michael and we isolated them in an outdoor pen for a little over a week so they would acclimate and not disappear into the woods. Then we allowed two out on the first day, three the second day, and finally all five are patrolling the gardens. They put themselves to bed in their original cage each evening and we close the door behind them until morning to protect our little army. Guinea's are like soldiers of the finest magnitude or perhaps even a close knit tribe. One member will sit atop a post or find a vantage point in a tree to scout for danger. If anything out of the ordinary appears to be approaching, the sentry will sound the alarm with a high pitched rattle of screeches to warn the others who will immediately join in the screeching whilst running in circles… one could safely say Guinea fowl are ’freakers’. If the danger seems imminent, they will join forces and attack emass, flying and diving on the suspect.

I experienced this first hand a few years back as I attempted to collect 18 babies who had quietly hatched in the meadow. Following behind their mother, they at first appeared to be tiny leaves blowing in the grasses. I attempted to collect them before the cat did and their mother sounded the alarm. The ear-splitting screeching, the rush of the tribe to assist her, the flogging and diving on my head was frightening indeed so I allowed the group to keep the babies. Not the sharpest tools in the shed, they circled the babies and then lost, stomped, or simply forgot all but three of the youngsters.



Notwithstanding their terrible parenting skills, they are a marvelous addition to the garden with their distinctive sound and exotic appearance. And their ferocious appetite is fantastic!

Change... From the swimming pool to the frog pond

Over time, needs change and adaptation naturally occurs in the garden. When the children were little we planted the Privet around the edge of the property and installed a horse tank surrounded by decking just opposite the badmitton court we had created for August tournaments. We surrounded the tank with evening bloomers that would smell lovely by moonlight... Datura and Four O'Clocks. Summer days were spent swimming and dipping, sunning and playing. Evenings were for star gazing, often while floating on inflatable chaises, gin and tonics in hand.







The children grew up, the swimming pool became more of a hassle than a joy, and the sun became very unfriendly. And so it became a frog pond. We placed lilies and water grasses in it, added goldfish to minimize mosquitos, and kept the night blommers for their scent. The decking was perfect for the green jumpers who came to inhabit our pond and often we had dozens that would plop with a splash as we approached.





Still it lacked the feeling, the aura if you will, that we wanted. So last weekend we removed the entrance decking, installed dual benches, a gravel path to the water's edge, and gave our little space a truly Zen feeling.



I like it a lot... and so does the the Pond Fairy!



*Five dollars worth of water hyacinth will clean an entire pond, multiplying as the season progresses.

Rules for Having Poisonous Plants~

Ingesting Only One Castor Bean Seed Will Prove Fatal!
Pretty tho' Isn't She?

Plants have been source of fascination since the beginning of time. They have provided a plethora of benefits to mankind and use of them has evolved over many years. However as all gardeners know, there is a dark side to the plant kingdom and many common plants are extremely toxic causing complaints which range from indigestion, to hallucinogenic visions, and possibly even death. The science of using dangerous plants reached a zenith during Medieval times when dispatching an enemy was as simple as brewing a tea! Today, for the well being of children and animals, it is wise to know which common plants impose significant dangers.

Almost all flowering bulbs are toxic in some manner so do not ingest any of them. Many plants contain dangerous compounds which are removed by cooking. Our own Poke Weed, found in early spring, is toxic unless the leaves are prepared in a specific manner. The roots, leaves, and flowers of Taro, a wild Elephant Ear, are staple foods in some tropical countries, but they too must all be cooked before eating. Some plants have parts of them which are edible while other parts are toxic. The Rhubarb, used in flavorful jellies and pies, has poisonous leaves but the stalks are not.

The following plants are listed as fatal, making them of particular import. Bunny Rabbit flowers aside, the lovely Larkspur is so toxic that it was used during the Revolutionary War as a pesticide. Soldiers stuffed their boots with it to repel mites and ticks. Oddly, the green berries of the lovely and prolific Lantana are fatal in small doses as are those of the Wisteria, Jasmine and Mistletoe. All parts of the Azalea and Rhododendron plants are deadly as well. The popular house plant Dieffenbachia is called dumb cane for it’s affect on the mouth and throat if ingested. The instant swelling not only renders the individual dumb, but may cause air-blocking swelling.

Many toxic plants incur cult followings among ill informed youth. Used as a recreational drug due to hallucinogenic properties, the exotic Moon Flower made the news on a high school campus last fall as students chewed seeds in class. Salvia Divinorum contains a property which is a potent naturally occurring hallucinogen when smoked. The leaves were used in traditional spiritual practices by the Mazatec people of Mexico however due to it’s ‘popularity’ among non-native followers, it has been banned in twelve states including Florida, Louisiana, Missouri, Tennessee, Delaware, North Dakota, Illinois, and Ohio.

There is a simple common sense rule to follow in dealing with the Plant Kingdom: Do not graze in the woods or garden, eating or smoking what abounds unless it is something that you know and recognize as healthful… it could make you ill or even prove fatal.

Caladiums

Without doubt it is the year of the Caladium. Driving about town, they appear in almost every garden in splendid glory. A native of South America they have been called “Heart of Jesus” and ‘Angel Wings’ for the intricate structure of their leaves. Since they are tropical and require moisture to reach their zenith they have certainly flourished this year. Planted about the time one plants Okra seed, they are also one of the few bulbs to thrive in the shade. Grown for their spectacular multicolored decorative leaves, they are used on borders, in pots and as garden focal points and look lovely from now until fall.

There are two kinds of Caladium, the fancy-leafed and the lance-leafed, with the lance-leafed the slightly smaller of the two. Since there are over 1,000 named cultivars from the original South American plant, one is assured a color or combination which will fit into every garden scheme. They grow to full size in one season and come in astonishing combinations of red, pink, green or white with colored midribs and contrasting backgrounds and borders.

Each Caladium tuber has a large central bulb surrounded by smaller buds so the larger the tuber, the more impressive the display. You may save Caladium tubers for planting next year by digging the tubers in the fall before they have lost all color. Once dug, spread them on an old screen to dry for a week, cut and remove all the dried foliage, dust the soil from them then pack in dry peat moss or vermiculite for storage. In packing, make sure the tubers do not touch each other and store them where the temperature will not dive below 50 degrees. Keep in mind however that the foliage of bulbs stored in this manner will be smaller and bloom less abundantly than first-year tubers. For less than the price of dinner for two at a fine restaurant, one can purchase an abundance of tubers in the spring, assuring a magnificent show all summer.

Lilies

The weather has been schizophrenic of late. It’s been hot, then cold and rainy, windy then dry and hot again. It is always such a treat to experience the entire spectrum of weather conditions available in Western Oklahoma regardless of the season.

The lilies are in full bloom everywhere. The varieties available now are truly spectacular and come in ranges of color and form that far exceed the traditional white Easter lily of your Grandmother’s garden. Hybridization has given us a memorable gift with the improvements. The lily is of the largest and most important plant families, dating back as far as botanical recordings. Of the 2,000 species, there are 12 which are native to North America. The Meadow Lily, the Southern Red Lily, the Leopard Lily, the Wood Lily, and Sierra Lily all grow within the bounds of our nation in shaded woodland settings. The trumpet-shaped blooms made up of six parts, are held upright on sturdy stems. The roots of the lily spread from the central bulb and form new bulbs, making them a perfect naturalized species if allowed enough room to travel.

The Chinese and Japanese lilies have spectacular form and scent and bring elegance to the early summer garden. The flowers come in a full spectrum of color and shape, some with nodding heads, some upright, and others with the lovely turkscap form of recurving leaves. Among these jewels are the Stargazer, Amber Gold, Black Magic and the lovely L. martagon with its back-curved pinkish blooms. Lilies make lovely cut flowers in an arrangement and will fill the room with their spicy aroma.

The plants which we call water Lilies are not of the lily family at all, but are of a genus unto themselves. They too are in full bloom in water gardens everywhere. They project a serene classic beauty with their deep green and glossy plate like foliage and ethereal blossoms floating on the water. Their leaves provide shelter for fish and help reduce the spread of algae in the pond. Watching and waiting for the blooms of water lilies to open is always exciting and thrilling for the gardener who has cultivated these lovely plants.

My Gardening Days...

I wrote this last year... but some things never change~

Sometimes it becomes too ridiculous and this is how my gardening days seem to go lately… I can't find anything in the yard anymore. I spend all my time looking for lost tools. I'll prune something then drop the pruners while I carry off debris, planning to return momentarily.

I see something else on the way back to the pruners and become distracted from the pruning job. A large clump of grasses or weeds lurking amongst the flowers catch my eye. I enthusiastically weed a bit then I begin to look for the rake to rake the weeds and grass I've pulled before they can rebound and reroot.

As I am looking for the rake, I see a lily with a heavy head that needs to be staked. I remember a stake is on the spent Iris so I go to the top bed and begin looking for it among the poppies. I finally locate it return to the Lily, stake the plant and note with satisfaction her head is upright.

Then I remember, as I see the wilting weeds, I am looking for the rake. I finally find it in some obscure place then rake the weeds into a pile. I need my gloves to pick up the pile so I go to the garden table to get them. Naturally they are not there.

I remember I took them to the house so they would not get rain soaked so I go to get them and finally find them under a packet of seeds on the ledge of the porch. Bingo… gloves on I now pick up the weeds. As I am carrying them off I see a six pack of wilting Petunias that desperately need to be put in the ground. First water them but where's my watering can? Then I need my trowel. Hmmm? I find the can, fill it and water the Petunias which immediately perk up.

I am still looking for one of my three trowels and finally find one in the herbs where I was digging grass days ago. I plant the Petunias then notice something that needs to be pruned.

I can't remember where I left the pruners, it's getting hot, I've missed lunch, I'm beginning to sweat and need a drink of water. I've gone full circle. No wonder I'm tired at night. Now if only I could get an uninterrupted night's sleep... But that's impossible too... the Moon keeps calling to me!

Hail and Invasive Species

The weather seems a bit unusual of late. Since the beginning of the year we seem to have had less sunshine than recent memory can recall. It is odd indeed for Oklahoma to have day after day of sun-obliterating cloud cover. Not to mention the storm that arrived with such velocity late Sunday afternoon. Suddenly the trees began to dance as a cold wind rushed from the North, dropping the temperature fifteen degrees within minutes. Thunder could be heard rumbling in the distance as the sky darkened and the pace quickened. The storm seemed to race, and the rain was replaced by hail; from pea to plum sized, it pelted the gardens, bruising the plants and shredding leaves! We are extremely fortunate to have missed the softball sized hail that pounded most of our neighbors to the East and the news contained a squiggle about poor Nashville receiving hail the size of grapefruit last Saturday.

Gardening fads come and go with the popularity of plants and this years lovely garden or foundation plant may become, over time, an ecological nightmare. As is the case of Purple Loosestrife, which was an exceedingly popular choice for every landscape of the 1980’s. Still sold today in many states, including ours, the plant produces showy magenta-colored flower spikes for much of the season. Unfortunately, it has a nasty habit of overpowering it’s neighbors, taking much more that it is allowed. It is the Loosestrife’s habit of producing 30 to 50 stems from a single rootstock that has been the cause of the current problems. Escaping from the garden setting, it has been guilty of overtaking pastures and woodlands where it chokes and eliminates the competition while providing no substantial benefit to livestock.

The same is true of the wildly popular Butterfly Bush. Often sold through magazines in the 1980’s, it was unknown at the time this native of China would escape cultivation. It has traveled to roadsides, bar ditches, and pastures, invading natural areas, competing with native vegetation. It does attract butterflies, but cannot be used for butterfly reproduction and unfortunately competes with native plants that do. The bush produces large quantities of seed, up to 3 million per plant, which are dispersed by wind or water. The seeds can remain dormant in the soil for years until conditions become favorable to germinate.

The hideous Musk Thistle has arrived in our pastures as well. Oddly, this thistle has adorned the national emblem of Scotland since the reign of Alexander III (1249-1286)and was used on silver coins issued by James III in 1470. Legend has stated that Norse invaders stepped on them and the thorns pierced their leather foot wear. The invaders cried out in pain, thus alerting the sleeping Scotsmen and assuring them a battle win. As can be seen in the photograph, the base of this dreadful plant is sturdy and incredibly thorny, topped by a pretty pink blossom that is lethal in her production of seeds. A single flower head may produce 1,200 seeds and a single plant up to 120,000 seeds, which are wind dispersed. The seeds may remain viable in the soil for over ten years, making it a difficult plant to control.

Invasive Species web sites list many of the plant species we are to avoid, and they are certainly worth visiting before purchasing an addition to the garden. Some of the plants listed were quite surprising.

*Photo credit J.N. Stuart

Apple Trees and Cedar-Apple Rust

For all of those who are planning an orchard, there are a few facts about apple trees, junipers, and cedars which are odd, interesting and important to review before the purchase. The combination of any of the aforementioned may result in the formation of Cedar-Apple rust, which is a most interesting fungus. It is necessary for the rust to have both the apple and the cedar to complete its life-cycle so purchase of resistant apples is paramount considering the numbers of cedars infecting our environment.

In these warm days of early spring, the galls associated with the rust appear on infected Cedar trees following a rain. The galls are golf ball size, bright orange, and any kind of moisture will cause the formation of tendrils which secrete a gooey gelatinous substance that actually drips from the tree. Our patio Cedar was infected after we planted several Jonathan and Golden Delicious apples trees in the orchard, both of which are highly susceptible to the fungus. As the galls grew on the Cedars and began to drip, the children often complained of being 'slimed'. The slime secreted is actually a fungal spore which can travel up to two miles on the wind looking for a susceptible apple or crab apple host.

Upon arrival on the apple cultivar, the spore settle in and the apple becomes infected. The first sign of infection is the formation of small yellow spots which appear rather suddenly in the uppermost branches of the apple tree shortly after flowering. The spots begin to enlarge and turn a vivid orange making the condition easy to identify. In late summer, small tube-like structures appear on the underside of the leaves spores from these tubes are relaesed into the wind and settle on susceptible cedars or junipers thus completing the cycle. Oftentimes as the disease progresses, the apple trees lose almost all of their leaves making their appearance quite pitiful.

Fortunately, there are new disease resistant varieties of apples which are readily available. Redfree, Liberty, William's Pride, and Freedom are extremely disease resistant and provide ample fruit. Additionally, they show resistance to powdery mildew, apple scab, and fire blight. Crabapples which are resistant include Indian Summer, Prairie Fire, White Angel, Adams, David, and Donald Wyman which are excellent choices. Avoid planting Vangard, Hopa and Radiant as they are very likely to become sickly and succumb to the disease considering the number of Cedars in our environment. Whenever you choose a tree it is wise to check for the latest varieties which are disease resistant. Your local Extension office has a list of the latest, healthiest, and most productive varieties available for your zone.

*Photo credit Cornell Research

The Queen Has Arrived...

The Queen of Flowers, the majestic Peony, has begun her spectacular arrival at the garden party. The immense blooms can be seen in almost every older garden and are coveted above most other flowers. Breathtaking for the shear size of the deeply lobed flowers and deep green foliage, Peonies make lovely and long lasting arrangements which fill the air with their sweet lemony scent.

The Peony is deeply deserving of the historical praise it has received. Originating in China, it has been celebrated for hundreds of years, adorning Chinese drawings, pottery, and embroidery. The Chinese Peony comes to the garden in hues of pink, pale yellow and purest white, often edged with a hint of rouge on the inner petals.

As with most of our flora, the Peony has Greek folklore attached to the origin of the name. The peony is named after Paeon, a student of Asclepius, the Greek god of medicine and healing. As in most mythology, the gods were often prone to exaggerated human emotions and so Asclepius became jealous of his student’s talents. It was written that Zeus saved Paeon from Asclepius’ wrath by turning him into a flower; he became the Peony where he could live by remaining unseen. However the family name of “Paeoniacae’ was first used in horticultural circles in 1830 when Friedrich Rudolphi named it.

It is impossible to assure blooms on these favorites unless the temperature of the winter months gets low enough for the plant to go into full dormancy. They can not be grown in the Deep South and yet flourish in New England with amazing success and few problems. Although dividing them is often recommended, they will thrive if left untouched for many, many years.

On many Peonies there are often a few blossoms which shrivel and dry when they are about the size of a pencil eraser. This condition may be caused by a number of factors: a lack of fertilizer, a late freeze as the buds are forming, nematodes on the root, or botrylis blight disease. The easiest solutions are often the cure so begin with weekly applications of fertilizer as the first leaves appear. Continue until the blooms begin to open. If this does not assure a healthy plant, then you can assume it is a more serious condition. Next line of defense would be treatment of the blight disease which can be controlled by an application of Bordeaux solution. A combination of lime, copper and water, it is an old remedy and may be found at reputable nurseries. If the plant remains ill after these efforts, it is probably infested with nematodes. They are an extremely offensive and invasive species of roundworm invisible to the naked eye living in the roots and soil. If they are the problem, the plant must be discarded before the infected plant passes the disease to her neighbors.

A healthy Peony, planted in full sun, lightly fertilized, will last for 40 years or more, making them one of the most desirable and elite of all perennials. When planting a new one, prepare for a three to five year wait for full established blooming... it is worth every minute of it!

Successful Weeding

The chilly weather which arrived last week did not diminish the lavish feel of the marvelous moments in the garden. It has been spectacular with cool mornings and warm afternoons, both of which have made it perfect for the gardener. It has been the sort of spring weather which made one rush outside to smell the newness of the season and watch the leaves unfurl in an amazing time-lapse type moment.

It is truly time to address the weeds, which seem to be crashing the garden party like a drunken, raucous crowd. To the novice gardener, weeding is simply the removal of unsolicited and untidy plant material which invades the garden uninvited, overpowering and bullying the true guests. All gardens must be weeded however there are many theories on how to achieve success without repeat effort. Chemicals aside, informed personal effort is the only answer.

There are the die-hard pioneers who believe that hoeing is the only answer and that hoeing is manly. (It is!) Hoeing is primarily used in the vegetable patch to remove weeds in a crowded space; the hoe can get in and about the vegetables easily without harming them. There is an art to properly using a hoe, which must be sharpened and oiled before use each spring. The hoe, like a good knife, is a balanced tool and this balance allows the gardener to literally drop the weight of it on the intruder without much physical effort. A gentle rhythm is used and is almost like a dance…slowly lift-drop, lift-drop. It is quite effective if done properly. Experts at hoeing are often amused by those who use a frantic chopping-action, which is a waste of energy and also employs the human back to do the job of an expertly maneuvered hoe.

For the flower garden, hand removal is the only logical answer. Experts agree that to truly remove weeds it is necessary to trace the stem of the weed below the ground to the base of origin, follow the outlying roots with the finger tips, then remove all of it in a slow steady pulling motion, root and all in its entirety. This will insure permanent removal of the culprit. It is difficult to feel the root system wearing gloves so many gardeners of the past chose to weed gloveless. However since the gardener's staple, Mercurochrome, has been permanently removed from the market for the mercury it contained, curing the splits on a green thumb is not as easy now. I once gave gardening friends a gift of rubber finger cots, the kind used by court clerks and librarians to turn pages. Fitted over the thumb and forefinger, they prevented finger damage while weeding and allowed for extraordinary mobility.

Weeding can be an almost Zen-like activity, calming, unrushed, and quieting. When the soil is moist and the weather not too hot or steamy, it can be a perfect way to spend an afternoon. The rewards of successful weeding are a stack of wilting weeds, lovely garden and the satisfying feeling of a job well done.

Remember to weed on a day when the interlopers you are pulling rapidly wilt. If wilting does not occur almost immediately, the venture will not be as successful as weeding on a 'barren' day. On days when wilting does not occur for fifteen to twenty minutes, feel free to successfully transplant!

The Garden As Exercise

As a hobby, gardening ranks among the most popular activities with an astonishing 94%of Americans claiming it. The fact it burns calories and works muscles makes it a perfect low impact workout. As more and more Americans rush to the gym seeking health through exercise, the gardener simply needs to step outside the back door. Weeding or cultivating can burn 200 calories an hour, while hauling rocks can burn as many as 600. Turning compost is essentially the equivalent of lifting weights. Pushing the mower is the outdoor treadmill and raking is the gardener's rowing machine. Our exercise machines are trowels, rakes, shovels, clippers, and wheelbarrows; our running track is the garden. And when compared to the sweaty filth accumulating in a modern gym, dirt seems miraculously clean.

Not only will gardening build strength, but it uses literally all of the major muscle groups. It brings cardiovascular benefits and several studies have suggested that gardening could reduce insulin resistance, a condition that may lead to metabolic syndrome or diabetes, both of which increase the risk of heart disease. Only 30 minutes a day in the garden will lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels and will prevent or slow osteoporosis.

As with all exercise, it is important to begin slowly and it does seem, rather appropriately, chores in the garden seem to increase in intensity as the season progresses. In a study of heart attack risk assessment using 21,000 male Harvard alumni, it was reported that sedentary individuals had a 100 times greater chance of suffering a heart attack during strenuous activity than individuals who exercise moderately several times a week. The active men, whose chance of a heart attack increased only 2.4 times during strenuous activity, listed gardening as their major form of exercise.

Everyone from small children to senior citizens may enjoy puttering in the garden so it is a perfect family activity. It is claimed that the sensory pleasure of scented and colorful flowers reduces stress. The psychological benefits are valuable as well. Not only does one have the joy of producing fresh and healthful produce for the table, but the sense of accomplishment is quite fulfilling in itself. At the end of the day sit quietly and listen to the relaxing sound of a trickle of water in a pond, the magic of wind chimes in an evening breeze, and relax with the serene feeling of a deed well accomplished. The garden is the best kept health secret on the planet.

Mother's manual... Manners 101

BASIC MANNERS FOR SOCIAL SITUATIONS

Now that you are out on your own, you are no longer under the protection of your family so there can be no more behaving like a child. There are grown-up rules for behavior and they are called manners.
Manners are social customs that identify a society and although customs differ greatly across the United States, there is a universal code of conduct that is acceptable everywhere. If you are acquainted with the rules, you will be able to handle any social situation whether it is a State Dinner in Washington D.C. or a biker bar in Odessa. The mark of a well mannered person is the positive impression they have left behind.
The simple rules listed below will enable you to travel through life with comfort and confidence, knowing you are behaving properly.

Attending a Gathering

1. Give respect to those who are older than you are. Considerations begin with the oldest and also include the weak, timid, or disabled. Scan the room when you enter and nod or smile at those deserving of recognition. If you choose to 'pay respects', do not interrupt. Wait to be acknowledged and make it short.

2. Learn to make 'small talk'. It is exactly that… bland and inoffensive and it is used in social situations. It is about the weather, the day, the food, the party or gathering. It is always positive, never critical.

3. Never mention sex, politics, religion, or make comments that may be considered rude, crude or vulgar. Stash the profanity.

4. Do not venture into intellectual areas you know nothing about. For example, do not instruct a group of bikers about the V-twin engine. They know. Do not talk to the med student about your Aunite's surgery either.

5. Never, never, leave a conversation abruptly. To suddenly turn and walk away in someone's mid-sentence is insulting.

6. Compliments are a must. Sometimes truthful sometimes not…it makes no difference. They make the recipient feel good and you will be remembered. Example: 'You look great', 'The food is delicious'. Save 'You look hot' for your own group.

7. Thank the people who invited you! Never leave without thanking all of them.

8. Lastly, do not over eat, over drink, or insult anyone.

Mother's manual... advice for young people leaving home

Straightforward Advice From Mom... Dedicated to Young People Everywhere

As we all know, when the three little pigs left home two of them made disastrous, near fatal mistakes. This little manual is designed to help you avoid the pitfalls in life and achieve success.
With much Affection
Love, Mom
RENTING
The first thing which happens when you leave home is that you must find a home of your own. When you decide to rent an apartment or house you need to know a few things about getting started.

1. The rent is not the only cost. Renting requires a deposit as a promise you will not trash the facility. You get this money back when you move out if you leave the facility in the same condition that it was when you first rented it. Check with the landlord before making drastic changes. Painting the living room purple without asking will definitely get your deposit revoked.

2. Utilities are Electricity, Water and Garbage, and Gas.

3. Utilities require a deposit before they turn on your service. They will require this amount when they begin processing your application for service. It may be a percentage of the monthly cost of the utilities used by past tenants. *Hopefully they didn't run the air conditioner in August with the doors open.

4. Utilities will also charge a connect fee. This charge will be on your first monthly bill so prepared for it to be higher the first month than you expected. Save some cash back for this surprise.

5. Pets will be a problem always. Try not to buy the darling puppy on impulse to save yourself the heartache of having to get rid of it. Goldfish are always acceptable.

6. If you rent a house in the winter ask the landlord who is expected to mow the lawn when summer arrives.

7. Hide a spare house key some place outside.

*When we moved into our first rental house the joy of our new home was overshadowed by the nightmare we saw as we switched on the light after dark. We'd moved to Joe's Apartment! The walls were literally crawling with millions of roaches. We slept in the car our first night then had to eat the cost of the exterminator ourselves. Make sure to ask the landlord about who is responsible for extermination, should the need arise.

THE KITCHEN…Plan on learning to cook
Not only is cooking sexy, it is cost efficient. Also the transfats in fast food places will kill you. Your refrigerator needs more than beer and ketchup so plan to keep supplies on hand. Rule of thumb is plan on $60 a week per person for buying food. Shop on the first and the 15th of the month because that's when they have sales at grocery stores. Don't go grocery shopping when you are hungry; you'll buy impulse items.

Outfitting your kitchen is easy and cheap; go to garage sales for a frying pan, two sizes of sauce pans, a roasting pan, and a cookie sheet. Silverware, plates, and mugs added will finish the list and should set you back about $10-15 for all of it. Save buying the expensive stuff for later.

INSIDE YOUR HOME
Before you leave home, take a look at the workings of it. Note the supplies used and taken for granted everyday. Hand soap, shampoo, tooth paste, toilet paper. A broom and vaccume, sponges, dishwashing detergent, laundry detergent, Comet and so forth. These things cost money so save money for buying them.

TOOLS
You will need some tools to make repairs. A hammer, screwdrivers, and several sizes of nails. Cheap scissors, needles and black and white thread. The needles are for removing a splinter or sewing a button back on with the thread.

YOUR HEALTH
You will need medicinal supplies too. Alcohol is an antiseptic to clean a wound, antibiotic cream will kill what the alcohol hasn't so you need both. You need bandaids and Aspirin or Tylenol. Benedryl in case of an allergic attack. (ie: throat closing… 1 tablespoon liquid Benedryl will open it.) A thermometer for taking your temp will help evaluate degrees of illness.

Antibiotics are designed to help you body fight infection. They are not to be taken for headaches. Aspirin is to lower temperature, ease muscle pain and headaches. Tylenol is not as effective as Aspirin so take 1000 mgs. of it if you need to lower your temperature. If you are sick, give your body 3 days before running to the doctor. If you are getting better, not worse, after 3 days, you do not need to got to the doctor.

The difference in a virus and a bacterial infection is obvious. Clear phelm is not bad… probably allergies or at worst a cold, which is a virus. It takes 3 days of feeling punny to catch a cold, 3 days to have it and 3 days to recover and feel good again. Low fever can be present too; antibiotics won't help a virus.

Green phelm is bad, probably an infection needing antibiotics, especially if it lasts more than 3 days and gets worse. A flu lasts a full month of getting sick, being sick and finally feeling better. It has high temperature with it. You can spread the illness to your friends while you have the temp, so try not to cuddle. For everyday you had temperature, you are supposed to rest three. Rest means don't go to the gym and don't take a road trip. Sleep helps your body recover from being sick so go to bed early.

THE POLICE
Now that you are out on your own you need to know about the Police. You are probably going to be gathering with friends to 'party' so you need to know the rules. The job of Police in many college towns is to arrest students to make money for the city. However there are a few simple rules to follow which will keep you safe. Remember any encounter with the police is very expensive.

1. The speed limit is exactly that. It is the limit, taken to the max, as high as you can go. Do not exceed it. They can give you a ticket if you are going 2 miles over it.

2. Do not ever run from the police in a car…ever. They have guns and are awfully nervous on a good day. If you run, they chase, their adrenalin begins to pump and they will hurt you, if not kill you.

3. Be respectful in any encounter with the police. They are just waiting for you to smart off so they can get rough with you and arrest you. They may just give you a ticket if you are respectful. Or they could search and destroy your car, handcuff and beat you and throw you in jail. Remember they get a lot of money every time they pick up a person and their main job is making money. Not saying "sir" to a cop can land you a resisting arrest charge.

4. If you are on a walk and hear a policeman say "stop", do it! If you don't they will shoot you.

5. Never drink and drive or ride with anyone who is…it is a one way ticket to jail and it will cost a bunch.

6. If you have gone to a club, with a designated driver, do not get out of the car if it is stopped by the police unless he tells you to. The driver must say to the policeman that he is sober, he is the driver and everyone else is drunk. If you get out, the minute your foot hits the ground you will be arrested for public drunk. Let the sober guy talk to them and keep quiet... very quiet.

7. If they come to your house and ask to come in, do not let them. Once they are invited in they can do anything including terrorizing you and tearing up your home. Ask for a warrant before letting them in.

8. Always contest any traffic tickets. If you simply send in the payment, it is considered a guilty plea (no contest) and will be reported to your insurance company. If you appear in court and say you do not agree with the policeman the judge may make you pay the ticket, but it goes on record you have not agreed you were speeding. It will not be reported to your insurance.

Stay Safe!

Wildflowers

With the recent rains the wildflowers have begun a spectacular show this year and a drive along I-40 will provide a glimpse into the beauty of our naturalized countryside. By the early 1980's many recognized the need to preserve naturalized heirloom wild flowers. The Oklahoma Native Plant Society, established in 1986, is a group dedicated to preserving our unique collection of botanical specimens and donations to their efforts may be made through the state. The lovely red and yellow Indian Blanket, seen all along the countryside, is our state wildflower.

Fossil records indicate that flowers appeared quite suddenly about 80 to 90 million years ago and today they are the most abundant and diverse plants on the earth. Originally plants were generated from spore not seed so they were able to reproduce without the aid of pollination. With the emergence of seeds, the plants needed either wind, or birds, or bees to achieve fertilization. From this necessity arose the lovely and showy flower forms we see today; the flowers needed to allure the pollinators.

Egypt was involved very early in botanical exploration. Excavations of the Nile Valley have shown remains of 25 different plants including cattails dating over 17,000 years ago. Chemical analysis on ancient Egyptian fabrics indicates dyes extracted from plants were used as long ago as 1300 BC. Flower gardens are depicted in murals painted on the bedroom walls of the chambers of Amenhotop in 1380 BC while Ramses III reported importation of hundreds of plant specimens from the travels of his soldiers.

By 300 BC the Greeks were actively involved in describing and naming species of plants. The long and difficult botanical names come directly from them and the naming process continues today in respect for their efforts. By Medieval times, monks were largely in charge of botanical discovery but little progress was made in the Western world until the 1700's. European discoverers made their way across the planet and returned with specimens to present in court. By the 1800's there was a global excitement over the enormity of plant species and advancements were made to classify and learn the uses of them. Lewis and Clark carefully noted the wild flora while Charles Darwin collected plants which are included in his 'Origin of Species' published in 1859. Gregor Mendel introduced the science of genetics in 1866 and with it began the tracing of DNA.

Royal gardens were strictly formal and the interest in wildflowers was not great until the early 19th century when American and English gardeners began to note the appeal of 'natural' gardens growing freely. Gertrude Jeckyll (1843-1932) created over 400 gardens in Europe and America and her influence on wild flower gardening is to be commended. It is through her efforts in preserving 'flowering incidents' in woodland settings that we today recognize the importance and beauty of flowers growing in the wilderness. Take a drive and enjoy the beauty of the roadside!

Heirloom plants and Annuals

As time goes by, gardeners are becoming increasingly interested in establishing heirloom varieties within their flower plantings. Perhaps it is the nostalgia of remembering Grandmother's flower beds, or perhaps it is simply that one tires of keeping up with the latest trends. Whatever the reason, heirloom flowers are 'hot' this year.

Among the favorites is the ever faithful Hollyhock. Since its arrival from Asia several centuries ago, it has been a staple in both cottage and traditional gardens. A tall, sturdy plant, the charming Hollyhock has a place in every garden. The spires of climbing flowers come in a wide variety of colors which embrace deep purple, all of the pinks to yellow and creamy white. The large, deep green, fuzzy leaves first appear as rosettes and then open to become a pleasing heart shape. Hollyhocks bloom from June to September providing a summer of beautiful color at the back of the garden. Most bloom the second year better than the first so it is wise to cut back the plant in the fall while keeping a few inches of the stalk. The flowing year, leaves will emerge robustly in the early spring allowing for flowering to commence ahead of schedule.

An often overlooked plant that thrives in partial shade is Comfrey. Comfrey has been cultivated in the East since 400 BC as a healing herb. The word 'comfrey' is derived from the Latin meaning 'grow together' which reflects the early use of this lovely plant to aid in knitting broken bones. Both Greeks and Romans used it to stop heavy bleeding, treat bronchial problems, and heal wounds. Poultices were made for external wounds and a tea was consumed for internal ailments. Although the instructions for planting state it needs 'full sun' it will not live in our climate if planted in the sun. It needs filtered light making it a wonderful showy planting for semi-shady places in the garden.

It is time to plant the annuals. Lasting only one season, they are the fillers necessary for every garden. Experts recommend that an established garden have 70% perennials and 30% annuals, making annuals a very important addition. When purchasing them, buy the smaller six or eight packs instead of their larger more expensive counterparts. They will grow rapidly over several weeks to be the size of the larger plants and they will adapt easier to their new surroundings as youngsters. This year remember to purchase some Mexican Heather. Also called False Heather, it originated in Guatemala and Mexico and is quite drought tolerant and loves the sun. Planted in either a garden spot or a pot, it will grow quickly and bloom with tiny lavender flowers until frost. The butterflies love it!

Lilacs, Viburnum, Aphids, and Lady bugs

The lovely Lilacs are in full bloom, wafting their aroma throughout the garden. Until seventy five years ago the world was primarily agrarian and with it came the natural odors of animal waste, poor sanitation, and stifling heat. Traditionally planted outside windows, the dependable and sweet-scented Lilac has been a favorite for hundreds of years. The lilac was the basis for colognes, aftershave, and bath oils; the flowers were dried and used for freshening linens. There is nothing quite as lovely as an extraordinary bouquet of freshly picked Lilacs to brighten the house.

Another early garden favorite is the marvelous Viburnum. Available in many forms and colors, perfect as a single specimen or gathered together in groups, the Viburnum is a necessary addition to any landscape. A member of the Honeysuckle family, the tree-like shrub is native to North America, Europe, and Asia, making it a naturalized global species. Their white or pink flowers appear in clusters as large as a tennis ball and deepen in color as they open. The flowers appear early in the spring before all of the dark and heavily ribbed leaves have matured completely, making them one of the first seasonal feasts for the bees. The scent is sweetly enchanting, almost delicious, as it wafts through the garden carried by the winds. When planting a new shrub, remember that the first year it sleeps, the second it creeps, and the third it will leap!

The aphids arrived last week, appearing in the surrounding wheat fields and the garden simultaneously; they seem unfazed by the cold. These nasty little green bugs suck the life out of vegetation which is exactly the reason they arrive this time of year when the garden is tender. If one is considering a natural solution to the problem of aphids, it is noteworthy to mention that the favorite food of the darling Ladybug happens to be aphids! A large order of 72,000 ravenous Ladybugs may be purchased at www.growquest.com.for about $70.00. Last year our order arrived in two days suspended in cloth bag in small pallet of wood. Refrigerated until evening to keep them calm, at dusk we began sprinkling the dormant Ladybugs on the heavily infested plants. Initially they seemed lifeless but upon release they began moving…. and eating! Since each ladybug will eat 50 times her weight a day, the Aphids in our garden were eliminated without the use of harmful pesticides.

Some of our darlings took up permanent residency here and I see them hard at work this year. Sometimes money is well spent!

Black Currants

Easter Sunday was perhaps the finest Oklahoma has experienced in many years. From the gentle breezes to the temperature this year it was spectacular in every way. The early flowering shrubs added a scent that is unmistakably and magically spring-like.

The Black Currants are in full bloom sending their sweet scent throughout the countryside. The bright yellow, scarlet centered little flowers are dancing along the branches before becoming the changeling that is their fruit. Incredibly hardy, this North American gem is found in almost every locale regardless of soil conditions. The Black Currant likes early sun and is grateful for dappled shade in the afternoon making it a perfect companion for large orchard trees.

The small black fruit is an absolute plethora of health benefits and worthy cultivation for the Vitamin C content alone, which is four times the recommended daily dosage. Anyone who has ever become acquainted with black currants on the bush knows better than to eat while picking; the fruit is dreadfully tart. It is never eaten raw, but rather must made into jams, jellies, or sauces where it is sweetened to a distinctive delicious flavor. Black currant juice is often made into liqueurs and cordials to be used medicinally during winter months for the wonderful health benefits.

*All varieties of currants are rich in bioflavonoids that are thought to boost the antioxidant effect of vitamin C. They also help inhibit the growth of cancer and may possibly prevent other diseases.
*Black currant has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. In fact, they have the similar effect as of ibuprofen or aspirin.
*A powder made from dried black currant skin is used to treat dysentary, especially that caused by E-coli, a common cause of bacterial stomach ailments.
*Black currant juice, tea and syrup is use to ease the inflammation of a sore throat.
*Black currants help stimulate the digestive processes.
*Black currant seeds are rich in both omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Therefore it is beneficial in maintaining cardiovascular health and helps improve skin and hair texture.

The blessings provided by Nature spring forth naturally and in this case, in a lovely package that arrives sweetly in the earliest days of Spring with the promise of health. Try to add some currants to your diet this year!

Coral Bells

At last… Spring! The weather has been blustery but balmy, leaving those of us who garden with perfect days to prepare the garden for the coming season. The perennials are making their appearance and among them is the fabulous Heuchera, commonly known to your great grandmother as ‘Coral Bells’. Exceedingly popular a century ago, they lost favor for a few years until their 1991 win as the Perennial Plant Association’s ‘Plant of the Year’; since then they have made a rollicking come-back. Reintroducing themselves in the latest finery, the spectrum of their foliage colors is indeed astonishing! Native to all of North America, Coral Bells were first discovered in woodlands and trails before making their way to the garden.

April through October the faithful habit of this hardy perennial sends forth delicate stalks which rise above the foliage to produce bright bell shaped flowers. In shades of coral, red, white or pink, these sweet flowers are half an inch in length with five petals.

The most attractive feature however is the Coral Bell’s spectacular foliage that provides a striking focal point in any garden setting. A wide array of leaf forms, either ruffled or wavy, are available in stunning colors which include green, pink, red, purple, bronze and silver. Never invasive, this lady can be trusted to know her place in the garden, staying in tidy clumps rather than wandering.

‘Amber Waves’ is among the most exquisite emerging with ruffled amber foliage that changes to burnt orange as the leaves age. With the addition of the rose colored flower, she is indeed a show stopper. Another is ’Black Beauty’ with deep purple-burgundy leaves of outstanding ruffling that stand slightly upright to catch the sun from all directions. ’Bronze Beauty’ is extremely heat tolerant and provides shades of creamy white flowers over the extremely large peach, orange and bronze leaves below. And although the list seems endless, 'Encore' must be mentioned as she starts out in the spring with deep rose purple colored leaves that have a light silvering on top, darker veins, with a vibrant burgundy on the underside. With maturity. the leaves turn lighter rose and produce a heavy silver overlay over deep smoky-purple veins.

Hummingbirds adore them and deer find them distasteful, which is part of the reason for their popularity. The Coral Bell adapts and thrives in almost any garden but prefers light shade and moist feet to sun and dust. Prized for longevity, they will last for decades with little care, a trait which is always appreciated by the gardener.

*Photo credit: My dear friend and horticultural specialist Mr. Jeremy Webber at Sunny Border Nurseries in Connecticut... Heuchera are one of his favorites. Also credited is Mr. Dan Heims of Terra Nova Nurseries. One of his favorite creations, this beauty is 'Gypsy Dancer'.

Spring Equinox

In the Garden

By Catherine Dougherty

The arrival of the Spring Equinox this year was highly unusual. The blizzard took everyone by surprise and the lovely Jonquils were no exception. As the sky began to darken and the winds began to howl, there was little time to rush to the garden to cut all of the current blooms to bring springtime inside as the snow accumulated outside. The advice of many gardeners in New England, where they receive winter weather well into spring, is to consider early Jonquils merely part of the cutting garden and not plan to keep them outside at all.

The emerging perennials will not be affected as they have a built in anti-freeze. And due to the cold temperatures of February, luck has prevailed and the fruit trees are not yet in bloom. Obviously the garden has taken a hit, but it has endured far worse and managed to survive. Recall the Spring of 2003 with the unusual high temperatures and lack of significant rain since August? Or perhaps the March 30th freeze of 2000 when all the fruit trees were in bloom? However for anyone who is a weather buff, the two blizzards in less than three months will make this winter season memorable for many years to come.

The arrival of spring, the Spring Equinox, has been held sacred for thousands of years and is one of the four great solar festivals of the year. Day and night are equal, poised and balanced, ready to tip to the point of light. The Equinox honors youth, dawn, the morning star and the east. The Saxton goddess Eostre, from whence we get the direction east and the holiday Easter, is a dawn goddess ushering in the time of new light and new life.

The Roman New Year began on March 15th (the Ides of March) and the month of March is named after the Roman god, Mars. Between the twelfth century and 1752, March 25th was New Years Day in England and Ireland where the custom was to celebrate the new beginning. In both Greek and Roman mythology, the beautiful young daughter of a goddess, banished and forced to reside with the King of the Underworld for half the year, is allowed to return to her mother. Their joyful reunion ushers in rebirth of the land. In Christianity, Easter with the resurrection of Jesus Christ, is the celebration of rebirth as well. Passover is also the Jewish equivalent of a rebirth celebration.

Regardless of religious belief, the change of the seasons and ensuing celebrations, all rooted in the patterns of the moon, are universal and have been present for thousands of years. The Farmers Almanac has pages dedicated to the times in which to plant crops, all indicating the importance of the astrological signs. When planting below ground crops, (carrots, turnips, potatoes, beets, etc.) do so in the dark of the moon for they enjoy growing while sleeping in darkness. For plants which provide their produce above ground, plant the seeds in the light of the moon. The heavenly forces of the moon will call them forth so they may see the moonlight. Happy Spring!

El Niño

In the Garden
By Catherine Dougherty
It has been over a decade since we have had such winter weather. After many years we have finally received enough moisture to take us out of the drought category and in spite of the damage across the map, the severe weather has been a blessing for many. Atlanta, Georgia was running out of water and with El Niño, the reservoir is full once again.

The term El Niño is used daily on the weather reports and is simply a pattern of unusually warm ocean temperatures in the Pacific. The opposite is La Niña, which characterized by unusually cold ocean temperatures. These fluctuations of the ocean atmosphere in the tropical Pacific are the cause of drastic weather changes around the globe so observations of conditions there are essential for the prediction of short term climate variations.

This warm water, first noted by a fisherman off the coast of South America, was considered a religious phenomenon since it arrived around Christmas and thus El Niño means ‘The Little Boy’ or ‘Christ Child’ in Spanish.

During El Niño the trade winds relax in the central and western Pacific and the result of lengthy scientific research indicates there is a sharp rise in sea surface temperature with weakening winds. Among the consequences of this warm water is an increase in rainfall across the southern tier of the United States. However the eastward displacement of the atmospheric heat source overlaying the warmest water results in changes of global circulation, which in turn forces changes in weather in regions far removed from the tropical Pacific. Rainfall follows the warm water eastward causing flooding in Peru and lack of normal rain causes drought in Indonesia and Australia.

A moderate El Niño competing with a strong North Atlantic and Artic Oscillation tends to produce more than the usual number of polar and Arctic air masses, which in turn are partly responsible for the cold, snowy season in the Northeast.

Notable El Niño’s occurred in1986-1987 and I can recall the roads washing that year with unprecedented rains. The one of 1991-1992 flooded barns and homes and made Caddo and Canadian Counties disaster zones. The El Niño of 1997-1998 was the strongest and resulted in substantial nationwide flooding. The arrival of these weather phenomenon can not be predicted with accuracy. Each time we think we know where a piece fits into the climate puzzle, another piece turns up that needs to fit in as well.

Iris... The Bearded Beauties

Heirloom Iris, Snowballs, and Stars of Bethlehem



One of the most lovely spring beauties has arrived at the garden party this past week. The stunning Iris has entered, dressed in her finery with her accompanying fragrance that is both sweet and sultry. She comes to us with early, mid, and late blooming varieties; if all three are planted, the garden will embrace a splendid show for a month or more. Perfect as a cut flower, they will provide a dazzling arrangement which lasts a week or more. Since the small buds on a stem will open while vase-bound, simply remove the older ones as they become spent and thus increase the life span of your flowers.

The name Iris comes from the Greek word for rainbow. The unusual shape of the flower makes it easily recognizable; it has three sets of three petal-like parts. The lower set, called the 'falls', flare out and hang down and the fuzzy caterpillar-like appendage on the fall is called the beard. The three upper segments curve up forming a frilled dome. The three curved 'style branches' cover the stamens in the center. The entire structure is amazing.


The Iris appeared on the scepter of the Egyptian ruler in 1500 BC and it is also carved on the brow of the Sphinx. The design is the symbol for North on the compass. The Iris is sometimes called the Fleur-de-lis, French for 'Flower of the Lily'. It became the emblem for the Kings of France in the 1100's and King Charles V of France adopted three golden Fleurs-de-lis on a field of blue as his coat of arms in the 1300's.


The exact science of the medicinal value of the Iris, although known about, has been lost over the centuries. However the American Iris Society has actively promoted advancements in rediscovery of the ancient purposes of the flower. The dried rhizome of certain bearded Iris, called the 'orrisroot', is still used in medicines, powders, and perfumes.

Colors cover the spectrum and appear in countless variations. Many of the blooms have different colors in each of the three sections. From rich coffee and white, shades of deep blue and vibrant yellow, to purest white with a tinge of apricot…the combinations are breathtaking,


Our own Hugh Stout is a national treasure and important in Iris and gardening circles across the nation. Mr. Stout has scientifically created astonishing cultivars available at Dancingtree, located at 432 NE 70th St. in Oklahoma City. Plan to visit while the Iris are in bloom.

Oklahoma Pollen

By Catherine Dougherty

Spring is arriving right on schedule. The brilliance of the Sun and Moon is calling the seeds from the soil. The first jonquils have begun blooming, the buds on the trees are swelling, and the lovely Forsythia has a few spots of yellow appearing on bare branches. With these occurrences one can sit back and delight in the fact that spring is coming earlier than expected.

With the buds swelling on the Maple and Elm comes considerable pollen. Without going into intricate scientific explanations of the reproductive cycle of plants, it may be simply stated that the pollen of most trees, shrubs, and grasses is lighter than the pollen of flowers. It is carried by the wind as high as three miles up and as far as 100 miles from the original plant. Flowers generally have heavier pollen and require pollination by bees, hummingbirds, and other insects. A flower that is self-pollinating usually has no scent; scented flowers use their fragrance to attract external pollinators.

The light pollen is easily inhaled as it travels on the wind. It is the culprit of the condition called hay fever (or allergies) as it may irritate an individual's throat and nose. It is impossible to avoid pollen this time of year and Oklahoma is famous for the amount of pollen produced here. Remember our supply is so vast the illustrious Smithsonian Institution comes here to collect samples!

Due to the desert conditions, Arizona was once a haven for people with severe allergies. However as subhurbs grew and people began planting non-native species of trees and plants, establishing irrigated lawns and gardens, more irritating species of plants gained a foothold. Arizona lost its claim of freedom from hay fever and it was almost alone in that claim.

No matter where one goes this time of year, there is no escape from the irritants of pollen. It is necessary for the reproduction of plants and we must accommodate them while sneezing our way through spring.

Responsible Banking

Few of us think much about our bank, other than depositing our checks and then writing checks to shop or pay bills. However in Jeffrey Hollender's book ’How to Make the World a Better Place, A Guide to Doing Good’ he has written a chapter on socially responsible banking. I had never considered choosing a bank as social responsibility before and his position is thought provoking. He cautions that your money, however small the amount of time it is in a bank, is the base used by the bank to run itself, make loans, invest, etc. Since banks are allowed to loan out up to nine times the amount of deposit funds that they hold, this equates to nine times the actual consumer spending power of your money. Once in the hands of the bank... nine times the potential social, environmental, and even economic damage through their choices and activities.

Accordingly, we should all look at what our bank chooses to do with our (their collective) money. I changed banks once I began viewing the policies of my bank; it was racially and socially bigoted and even cruel to ’small’ people. The moral policies were much like those of the 'bad' teacher who only likes the football captain and the cheerleader. They chose to give 'special' lower interest loans to patrons who attended the 'right' church and who were members of the 'right' political party. As I looked further into their activities it was apparent that many of their chosen few were never out of funds, never foreclosed upon, and always granted easy signature loans. I suggest taking an unbiased look at your bank... it is your money after all.

*Get Jeffrey Hollander's book...How to Make the World a Better Place: 116 Ways You Can Make a Difference. It contains some wonderful ideas.

Crocus and Saffron

In the Garden
By Catherine Dougherty

At last February is over and since it is by far the most boring month for gardeners, saying good bye was easy. The lovely spring crocus are peeking above the ground, reminding us that the early arrivals will be punctual. Native to southern Asia, the Netherlands now control much of the market by producing hybrids of amazing breadth and color. The first crocus brought to the Netherlands were corms brought from the Holy Roman Emperor's ambassador in the 1560s. A few corms were forwarded to Carolus Clusius at the botanical garden in Leiden and by 1620 new garden varieties had been developed.

Hardy perennials, the plants grow from corms and are found naturally in a wide range of habitats, including woodland, scrub and meadows. However the most fascinating of all is the Crocus sativus, an autumn blooming species. Saffron, one of the most ancient and celebrated of all spices is produced from the scarlet stigmas. The origin of the word is Arabic for yellow, the color of the flower.

Research yields that Saffron-based pigments have been found in 50,000 year-old depictions of prehistoric beasts in Iraq. Sumerians used wild saffron in remedies and magical potions. Ancient Persians cultivated saffron for personal use or trade and by the 10th century B.C. saffron threads were woven into textiles, offered to divinities, and used in dyes, perfumes, medicines, and body washes. Thus, saffron threads would be scattered across beds and mixed into hot teas as a curative for bouts of melancholy. During his Asian campaigns, Alexander the Great used Persian saffron in his infusions, rice, and baths as a curative for battle wounds. Alexander's troops mimicked the practice and brought saffron-bathing back to Greece.

European cultivation of saffron plummeted following the Roman Empire's fall however the spread of Islamic civilization allowed reintroduction in Spain, France, and Italy. So popular became saffron as a medicine that during the Black Plague of the 14th century, demand for saffron-based medicine exceeded local availability and much of it had to be imported by ships from southern Mediterranean lands. The theft of one such shipment by noblemen sparked the fourteen-week long "Saffron War". The conflict and resulting fear of piracy spurred significant saffron cultivation in Basel, which grew prosperous from saffron alone.

Cultivation and trade then spread to Germany where the price of the spice tempted many growers to add various ingredients such as beets to the mix. These epidemic levels of saffron corruption brought on the Safranschou code, under which those convicted of saffron adulteration
were fined, imprisoned, and even executed. Soon after, saffron cultivation spread throughout England with the Essex town of Saffron Walden emerging as England's prime saffron growing center. As more popular spices such as chocolate, coffee, tea, and vanilla were discovered, saffron production decreased and only southern France, Italy, and Spain, have continued significant cultivation. It takes 75,000 blossoms or 225,000 hand-picked stigmas to make a single pound which explains the expense of this exotic spice made from the simple crocus.

Trapped in the House!

Last week I had written my article but had not yet ‘saved it’ when the power went off. Twenty minutes later it came on and as I finished writing, it went off again. I assumed it was not ‘meant to be’ and sat quietly the remainder of the day, listening to the wild birds squabble with the squirrel on the birdfeeder. Needless to say, this weather, with the never-ending overcast days of rain or snow, is rather depressing for the gardener.

Actually there is a syndrome/disorder for the way many of us are feeling about now. It is called SAD or Seasonal Affective Disorder, also known as Winter Blues. There are various symptoms of SAD listed below, all of which result in seasonal depression.

1. Difficulty waking up in the morning and the tendency to oversleep as though in hibernation.
*This is perhaps an unconscious effort to wait out the boring month of February by sleeping it away.

2. The predisposition to overeat, especially with a craving for carbohydrates which are a ‘comfort food‘.
*Naturally this may lead to weight gain which is a further reason for depression.

3. A general lack of energy, difficulty concentrating or completing tasks, and withdrawal from social activities.
*Leaving the house in an ice storm is not a good idea anyway.

The odd thing about this syndrome is that it often appears in totally mentally healthy individuals who simply find themselves confined by winter. A trip to the tanning parlor will help immensely as light is the cure.

Another weather related syndrome some of us may be experiencing is called ‘Cabin Fever’. First recorded in 1918, cabin fever is a term for
a claustrophobic reaction that takes place when a person or group of persons are isolated and unable to leave a confined space for an extended period of time. Symptoms of cabin fever include restlessness, irritability, laughter, forgetfulness, excessive sleeping, and finally distrust of anyone they are trapped with. Often there is an urge to race outside even in snow or darkness as the individual assumes 'the unknown' is possibly better than entrapment with their companions. Humorously it has been referred to as a reaction of extreme boredom.

It can safely be assumed that the recent power outages may have contributed to a rash of cabin fever for how many hours can one find entertainment sitting in the dark listening to clocks tick?

Take heart… all of this misery will end with the arrival of the Sun and surely it will be shining soon. I need to be outside!

The Garden and the Freeze

In the Garden
By Catherine Dougherty

Most of the nation has been gripped by sustained dangerously dipping temperatures accompanied by winter storms. In spite of this, the knowledge that spring is approaching, that each day receives two more minutes of daylight, gives the house-bound gardener the will to survive this tiresome time. Rather than pacing and continually looking out the window like a teenager trapped in Latin class, this is precious time that may be used to plan a magnificent garden for the next season.
It is possible that this ice cover has damaged many of the bulbs which usually survive here quite nicely if left in the ground for the winter. The dependable yet tender Cannas and Elephant Ears will probably not survive as will the Caladiums.

In quickly touring the garden it may be noted the early spring bulbs have begun to emerge, their tiny green stalks peaking above the snow covered ground. It is always somewhat alarming to see such new and tender foliage appear while we have so much of winter left. Fortunately most bulbs have a natural internal antifreeze which keeps them from freezing and their foliage can survive sustained temperatures as low as 10 degrees for several weeks. Since most of the ations temperatures dipped too low for an extended period of time, the bed should be lightly covered with hay before further damage may occur. The hay is assurance the frozen bed will not thaw on the next warm day only to freeze again with more cold air. Meaning the mulch does not keep the cold out as much as it protects from a damaging and premature thaw followed by more freezing temperatures.

The cold is a natural boon for the Peonies for it is necessary for them have a hard freeze in order to assure profuse blooming in the spring. Without a freeze, they will have lovely foliage but few blooms. Left undisturbed for many years, the Peony will become established, expand, and bloom perfectly for decades. The older a clump of Peonies, the better they become. Martha Stewart recommended dividing them every few years, however she was mistaken. In gardening, as in all important endeavors, it is prudent to seek information from many sources and often the little old lady with the fifty year old garden has more knowledge than all the experts combined.
Spring bulbs can survive the cold nicely until the blooms begin to appear in the spring. Several years ago we had a hard freeze just as our lovely early Iris blooms were “in the boot”, which means they were small, just emerging, about to swell and open. The entire bed froze so completely that all of the immature blooms became soggy mush and dropped off. We had to wait several weeks for the later varieties to begin their show.

For this reason it is wise to plant bulbs and tubers which bloom in succession. Plant early, mid and late blooming Iris, Tulips, and Daffodils and you will be assured a lovely show of blossoms even if Old Man Winter refuses to leave town and nips the early varieties.

After the ice and snow of last week, we wandered outdoors Sunday evening in the bitter cold and it smelled like Spring! I have no idea whether it was the moisture or the newness of the year, however the aroma was unmistakable; it was clean.

Entertaining Angels Unawares... a seasonal thought

It was late December and our children were still little so naturally we were broke. Christmas was coming and although we were not extravagant, we still provided special food and thoughtful gifts for all eight of them. We were entering the on ramp on I-40 to go home from a grocery excursion and saw standing alone, an elderly gentleman leaning on a wooden crutch. He was about 70 with a stubble of beard; he was dressed in fairly ragged clothing, wearing an old gray hat. His belongings were in a small stained bag, and he had an old woolen blanket pulled tightly about him. I felt sudden sadness upon seeing him and asked my husband if we should stop. He said no because we had three of the children with us and he would have to squeeze him in the backseat with them. He said that surely someone would pick the old gent up for me not to worry. And yet both of us felt a nagging sadness at the old man’s plight.

The following morning we realized we had forgotten some necessary items and again made the twenty mile run to the adjacent town. It was overcast, drizzling and a very cold blasting North wind made conditions miserable. As we drove I asked my husband if he thought someone had picked up the old man. He promised me that surely someone had. We bought the last of our necessities and had only forty dollars left as we entered the on ramp.

Sweet Jesus, he was still there! How could he still be there? We stopped just beyond the old man and my husband got out of the car to help him to his seat. He settled in and I turned the heater to warp while he began thanking us. He said he was trying to make it the Indian Pueblos in New Mexico where he knew he could stay for the winter. He said was Canadian and had served in WWII for the US but had been denied benefits due to his citizenship status. He had fallen on hard times and just needed a bus ticket to get on his way but could find no help in getting one. He said had been standing on the on the on ramp for many days. My husband suggested that we take him to the Travel Plaza where all of the truckers stopped for gas and that perhaps he could find a ride from someone there. He gratefully accepted the idea and said he was warming up a bit. My husband stopped at the plaza and pressed our last forty dollars into the gentleman’s hand as he helped him into the building.

As we drove away we kept feeling a nagging worry and so after unloading our bundles, we drove the seven miles back to the plaza to check on him to see if he had obtained a ride. Our inquiries were met with puzzled looks for no one had seen him… not the people inside my husband had spoken to as he opened the door, not gas attendants nor any the truckers…no one. Only we had seen him.

As this recession deepens, let us remember that many times our sense of compassion, our sense of brotherhood and our ability to unconditionally share with those less fortunate than ourselves may be tested. And let us remember: ‘Forget not to show love unto strangers for thereby some have entertained angels unawares‘.

In the Garden...Forcing Bulbs

In the Garden
By Catherine Dougherty

December arrived with blustery winds, dipping temperatures, and the feeling that Winter is here. The last leaves have fallen and the stark sculptural beauty of the bare trees has a tranquil feeling. The overgrowth of the lawns and fields has disappeared and suddenly a quiet order has descended. It is the season of rest for the garden and gardener alike.

As December gets underway, it is always enjoyable to bring some Spring into the house by forcing some bulbs for the holiday season. It is not too late to start the darling Paper White Narcissus, which can always be counted on to bring both fragrance and cheer to enhance the Christmas festivities.

First select large, top grade, flawless bulbs which are free of sooty mold. Next you will need some great gravel, some polished rocks, or some colored glass stones for your bulbs to nestle in. Stones and rocks may be purchased quite affordably in the hobby department of any popular store. The variety is amazing so when selecting them, try to imagine the flowers spilling out above them.

Select a rather shallow container for your display. Pick one that will be beautiful as a centerpiece on the dining table or in the living room. Translucent clear red and green glass stones in a shallow crystal bowl are spectacular for the holidays. If you choose a glass bowl then you will have the added joy watching the roots as they begin to sprout and grow, slowly twining in and about the rocks. Fill the bottom of your bowl with the stones, making a bed about two inches deep.

Gently press your bulbs into the gravel about half way down the bulb mass. Try to space them about two inches apart remembering to place them in the center as well. After arranging your bulbs, fill your container with enough water to cover your stones and thoroughly wet the bottom half of the bulb. Keep this water level constant, adding a little each day if needed.

As the roots grow, the reed like foliage will appear and then suddenly several small shoots will grow from each bulb. The small, folded, baby blossoms will appear and slowly open over several days. When the blooms first appear, give the bowl a shot of gin. It will force the greenery to stand at attention and it will prevent the wilting foliage so prevalent in forced Narcissus. I have no idea why the gin works, but it does.

The flowers smell marvelous and last several weeks before it is time to discard them. Once they are forced indoors the bulbs are spent; we have in effect killed them. Toss them, guilt free, after their stunning display is finished. Naturally, the larger the container you choose, the more bulbs you will need and the more riotous your display will be. I always feel that more is better!