healthy plants grow faster

welcome
publisher:
Welcome to greengate, greengate garden centres

At greengate garden centres youll find knowledgeable staff and even more editor: Ruth Staal
great gardening stuff than ever before. Weve taken your input on what you
expect a garden centre should be, and done our best to deliver it. Through writen by: Robert Smith
innovation and enthusiasm we strive to offer you the very best in gardening.
We believe gardening should be fun, so weve made a commitment to offer contributions by:
a better experience by introducing new ideas and innovative products to John Duncan
you the gardener. Our Cravo greenhouses with retractable roofs offer a Kathy M Andrew
C
superior environment for both the plants and people. Its just one of the
ways were offering a better garden centre experience. Donna Hubman
Kath Smyth
As we look forward into the future it become obvious that all of us need to Susan Pittonet
do our part for the environment. At greengate, we have been doing what we
can to live up to the expectations of our customers in this regard and as graphic design: Insight Studios Inc
such have been recycling pallets, plastics, paper, cardboard and since 2009
we have used biodegradable shopping bags. We have also been a long time printing: Topline Printing
user of 100% green power, currently through Bullfrog Power. In future we will
look at news ways to reduce waste and help protect the environment. special thanks to:
greengate has, and will, continue to offer you green alternatives and Calgary Horticultural Society
products so that together we can make a big difference in Calgary. As
dangerous chemicals are being removed from use we bring you safer members for allowing us to
alternatives for your garden and home. Once again we are showing our photograph & print images from
support for the Calgary Horticultural Society by offering discounts to their astounding Calgary gardens.
members and supporting gardening endeavours through our partnership. (Photos by Ridgerock Studios)
We are also offering to further support to community gardens through
donations and we hope to help Calgarians re-discover the joys of growing greengate garden centres
their own good eats! The Calgary Horticultural Society, offers support to 14111 Macleod Trail South
local gardeners and Calgary garden events, a goal which we share. Calgary, Alberta,
Canada T2Y 1M6
greengates gardensense is a magazine that is intended to be a simple ph. 403. 256.1212
information source that gives you a sense of what goes on and in Calgary
gardens and a sense of what were all about. Gardensense is a useful tool fx. 403. 256.4420
that will help you plan your yard and find the ideal plants that start or finish
your garden. This year we have added some simple tips so you can quickly e-mail: gardenhelp@greengate.ca
get to your gardening goals. Look for us on the web too at www.greengate.ca web: www.greengate.ca
Where we offer more detailed information on a variety of subjects.
*special thanks to all
greengate and gardensense are about helping you create the perfect garden. contributing greengate staff,
We hope our approach will bring you closer to your passion - gardening. Valleybrook, Monrovia Nursery,
RidgeRock Studios, Kath Smythe,
At your service and happy gardening, Ruth Staal, Harington Telford and
greengate Horticopia for additional photos
 c o n t e n t s
3 from the editor/services/guarantee 76 flowering ornamental trees
4 eco 79 evergreens
5 from the greenhouse manager 80 cedars
7 annual & perennial gardening 81 juniper trees
8 soil preparation 83 pine trees
9 seeds & seedlings 84 spruce trees
11 seeding dates 87 shrubs
13 annuals 91 fruit bearing shrubs
20 annual vines 93 lawns - ornamental grasses
22 annual hanging baskets 95 water gardens & ponds
25 C.H.S. perennial of the year 99 standing house plants
26 landscape design 104 flowering house plants
27 perennials 107 orchids
42 perennial vines 109 bonsai
45 herbs 110 bog gardening
49 deer proofing 112 fertilizing
51 bulbs, corms, tubers & rhizomes 113 composting & composters
53 container gardening 115 pruning
55 fruits & vegetables 118 insects & weeds
56 companion planting 119 repotting
59 tomatoes 120 propagation
63 roses 121 Christmas
71 trees and shrubs 123 department 56
73 non-flowering trees 125 xeriscaping
74 flowering fruit trees 126 glossary
 from the editor
welcome to greengate. Over the years we have done our
best to provide you with inspiration and ideas to help
you plan the perfect garden. This guide is intended for
the very same reason, to help you, the gardener, grow
the garden of your dreams, both beautiful and functional.
This season we have added a few pages of relative tips
that are easy to find and read, so that you can get out
there and get dirty without a whole pile of reading. We
wanted to make some simple additions that will help
you navigate about the garden quickly and easily, and
we hope it helps you out, here and there, this season.
We thank you for supporting our continued efforts at
the use of wind power and the recycling of paper,
plastics and pallets. Even this book is printed in an
earth friendly way!
We thank you for choosing to be green at greengate.

services
customer service desk senior discount day
Returns & exchanges will be made hassle free Every Tuesday 10% off regular priced items
with receipts
Gift Certificates
Calgary Horticultural Society
General / Delivery inquiries
Greengate is delighted to help support the Calgary
guaranteed plants Horticultural Society. You can too! Its easy. Just pick up
your greengate card in store with your CHS membership
re-potting service card and show them when you shop! Greengate
Greengate offers FREE re-potting when you purchase a supports the CHS by offering a 12% discount to every
tropical houseplant and a container (pot) from our store. CHS member. Its important to use your card as
greengate also pays 2% cash back to the CHS to help
delivery service fund Calgary gardening endeavours. Greengate also
Greengate offers a delivery service (charge applies), to supports the CHS with plants and materials for a number
addresses within the city limits. of CHS events. So, come on in and enjoy and help
support gardening in Calgary.

guarantee
Greengate guarantees all trees, shrubs and evergreens
for one full year if properly cared for. If any tree shrub or
evergreen fails to grow after being properly planted,
fertilized and watered, greengate will issue a store
credit for the purchase price.
Seasonal flowering houseplants, annuals, bonsai and
orchids are not guaranteed because of their perishable
nature.
All sale priced plants will be credited for the sale price only.

Perennial plants and tea roses are guaranteed to grow Returns for store credit will be issued with your
the first season only. No over winter guarantee applies. greengate receipt and the plant itself.

All indoor houseplants are guaranteed for sixty days. Replacements are not further guaranteed.

This Gardensense catalogue has been printed with care and attention to our environment
with every effort being made to the responsible use of renewable forest resources.
The inks used in the printing process are all vegetable based inks.
The paper used is acid free and elemental chlorine free.
New filmless technology eliminates the use of non re-usable plastic negative films
3 If you no longer need this catalogue - Please Recycle it, or pass it along to a friend!
We understand protecting the environment is a value
to everyone so here at greengate we have partnered
with some pretty special companies in order to
grow sustainability in Calgary. As
a member of REAP Business
Association we have been able to
strengthen our associations with
recyclers, learn more about what
other companies are doing to
protect the environment and help out wherever we
can. We have also chosen to do business with some
of the companies who are also REAP Members
because we know they too are doing their best to be
responsible, sustainable companies.
Some of our initiatives have been difficult but with
the help of REAP we have been able to continue to
recycle difficult items like less than desirable dirty
plastic plant pots. In the past we have done our best
to keep plastics out of landfills but without a proper
facility in the city this was a difficult task. Now we
are able to send plastic directly to the Metro Waste
recycling facility and as such youll see a new plastic
recycling container here at the store. Remember you
can now recycle your plastic pot plants at home by
recycling them in your blue bin. Of course we are not
discouraging you to come and visit and drop your
plastics here... Well take care of it.
Wind power is not new to us as we have been utilizing
100% Enmax wind power for a number of years. In
2010 we have re-committed to being green by
choosing Bullfrog Power as our green energy supplier.
We welcome Bullfrog Power to our team and we
encourage you to take a look at what Bullfrog Power
is up to by visiting Bullfrogpower.com. Being ahead
of the curve is what we do. The use of weed and feed
products are about to be banned in Alberta. No problem.
We voluntarily choose to discontinue selling granular
weed and feed more than seven years ago and thus
we already have eco-options available for you.
These are just some examples of how greengate is
doing its best to reduce its footprint. By choosing us
you are supporting these eco endeavours, and for that
we thank you. To find out more about greengates eco
initiatives and other REAP Members, please visit
www.reapcalgary.com

This season, as last, you will be able to purchase at

cost reusable shopping bags or you may feel better
about using plastic since our plastic bags and trunk
liners are now bio-degradable. greengates cardboard
plant trays are made of 100% post consumer recycled
content, as well as, many of our day to day paper
needs including this book.

Recycling paper and cardboard is not enough so we

have done our best to find uses for other shipping
materials. Wooden pallets that have outgrown their
usefulness are recycled into wood chips and you can
see and use the results of this by purchasing
Recycled Red Mulch right here at our store.

4
 from the greenhouse manager
This year is all about BLACK....
well at least when it comes to Petunias.
Black Velvet
2011 brings us three great petunias all dressed in black
and ready for your garden. Phantom, Back Velvet and
Pin Stripe are the show takers.
Black Velvet is the worlds first black Petunia. This
petunia is easy to grow with no special care needed. As
all petunias need full sun, adequate water and plenty of
fertilizer to keep those flowers coming all season.
Phantom is the same black flower as Black Velvet but
with a twist. This flower shows a yellow star pattern to
contrast with the black. This was my favorite of the
group of three.
Pinstripe is dark purple bloom with a cream star pattern
All three of these interdictions have a height of 20
to 30cm tall with the same in spread, perfect for
containers, hanging baskets, and borders.
I had the wonderful opportunity to grow these plants as
a trial in the spring and summer of 2010 and what a
great set of plants. Three wonderful introductions from
Ball Horticultural.
5
Now that the long winter is over and we can get out in our
yards and see what has started to show life. This is my
favorite time of year when we can take stock of what we
have, and start to put our new plan into place. Move what
needs to be moved and remove what has not survived.
This is also the best time to enrich your garden with
organic material. Two products that I love to use are Sea
Soil and Beats Peat. Sea Soil is a fantastic compost
made from forest fines and fish. But there is no fish
smell at all. It enriches the soil and holds water and will
help break up clay in our soils. Beats Peat is a wonderful
soil additive for the garden for a few reasons. For one, it
is a by-product of the coconut industry, so it is a
sustainable resource unlike like peat. Two, it is slow to
break down in the soil. Three it has great aeration
porosity, which is great as it allows air at the roots,
which in turn speeds up growth of your plants.
With these great products and new introductions your
garden will be off to a great start for the 2011 growing
season.
John Duncan
Horticulturist,
Greenhouse Manager
greengate garden centres
Phantom
 annual
perennial
and

7
garden ing
 soil preparation

3) Turn organic material into existing soil using

gardening fork.

Note: Large lumps should be left in the soil at this point. Frost
helps to break soil into a less dense soil structure, ideal for
plant growth and moisture retention.

4) Turn again in the spring, shortly before planting.

Break down large lumps of soil with a garden fork.

Note: Slow release fertilizer can be turned into the garden at

garden & bed soil preparation this point, if desired.
Ideally, soil preparation for the planting of seeds and
spring soil preparation
seedlings will be done in the fall. If this is not possible,
however, organic material, such as compost or manure,
1) Remove all garden debris from planting site a
few weeks before planting.
should be worked into the soil in the spring. This will
help the soil retain moisture, improve drainage, add 2) Turn existing soil using gardening fork, breaking
oxygen and improve root growth. up lumps.
fall soil preparation
3) Add 4-6 of organic material and turn over again.
1) Remove all garden debris from planting site, add
to composter for future use. Note: Gypsum can be added to heavy clay soil to make it easier
to dig in organic material.
2) Spread layer of organic material several inches
thick over area. Compost or manure is ideal for this.

8
 seeds & se
edlings
starting seeds outdoors
Sowing seeds directly into the garden eliminates the
need to transplant. The seeds are planted directly into
the rows or beds where they are to grow. Most seeds
are sold as loose seeds in a paper packet and should be
planted at the depth and spacing indicated on the
packet. Some seeds are also sold as seed tape, which
eliminates the need for spacing.
Many plants must be started indoors, in order to do well
in our relatively short summers. They should be planted
by start dates specific to individual plants. This
information can be found on individual seed packets, as
well as in gardensense in the seeding date section - pg. 11.
seed planting steps (outdoors)
1) Plan area to be planted.
2) Work and condition soil. (see Soil Preparation - pg. 8)
3) Sow seeds in individually marked rows or beds at
the depth and spacing indicated.
4) Water in well and keep beds moist.
5) Plants can be fertilized with an appropriate fertilizer,
such as 15-30-15, when they have two sets of leaves.
starting seeds indoors
With Calgarys short growing season, plants grown from
seed often do not have the proper conditions to complete
their cycle of growth. Many seeds get off to a better
start when they are sown indoors in containers and
9
tip: In early April begin to pot up or space out in
seed trays young bedding plants in the greenhouse.
later transplanted outdoors. Many would not have the
time to flower unless planted much sooner than is
possible outdoors.
Plastic and peat pots are the perfect containers for
starting seeds, but any container with adequate
drainage will do. Seeds that are started in February or
March will do much better growing under fluorescent
lights, as day length is short and windows do not
provide light over a long enough period. Those started in
April and early May will generally be fine in bright,
sunny windows. Some seeds need heat to germinate,
some need cool; some need to be covered, and some
need to be exposed to light. Experiment with likely
spots in your home and remember that fluorescent
lighting can be added to supplement natural light.
Indoor potting soil should be used.
seed planting steps (indoors)
1) Plants seed in flat or other container at depth
indicated. Peat pellets are also ideal for starting
seedlings.
2) Water well and keep moist but not too wet.
3) Thin plants as necessary.
4) Some may have to be transplanted into slightly
larger, separate containers and allowed to continue
growing before planting outdoors.
hardening off
Seedlings grown indoors or in a greenhouse will need to
be hardened off. Hardening off is the process of adapting
a seedling grown indoors to the outdoors over the course
of a couple of weeks. Differences in temperature and
light intensity may set back plants and delay flowering
if the plants are not gradually acclimated to both.
To start, plants should be kept in a sheltered area away
from intense sun and harsh winds. A cold frame is an
excellent place to harden off your seedlings but any
sheltered spot will work well. Plants should be covered
or brought inside at night if temperature or wind
tip: Plant seeds. Plant something with big impact
like sunflowers or sweet peas. They are easy to
grow, delightful and will seldom let you down.

conditions dictate. Over the course of two weeks, gradually

increase the plants exposure to the suns intensity and
other elements. At this point, seedlings can be planted
outside in beds or rows whenever weather will permit.

planting seedlings
For instant results, or a quick start for plants that need
more time to complete their life cycle than Calgarys
climate allows, seedlings are the perfect fit. They can
instantly add greenery and colour to your beds.

In Calgary, spring frosts can last until late May. For that
reason many area gardeners wait until at least June 1
to plant their seedlings outdoors.

Note: For best results, do not plant your seedlings during the
heat of a sunny day. This may cause undue stress on seedlings.
Planting seedlings on overcast days or in the early evening will
help greatly to reduce this stress.

steps for planting seedlings

1) Plan area to be planted.

2) Work and condition soil. (see Soil Preparation - pg. 8)

3) Dig a hole that will accommodate the seedling you

wish to plant.

4) Remove seedling from its flat or pot. Massage root

ball gently. Separated roots will reach out for moisture
or nutrients.

5) Set plant in hole and add soil until the seedling is

planted at the same level as it was in its container.

6) Firm down soil around the seedling and water in well.

7) Fertilize the plant with transplant fertilizer (5-15-5)

to help prevent transplant shock.

Note: Tomato seedlings should be planted deeper than other

seedlings, usually up to their first set of leaves.

Note: Peat pots should always be removed since they do not

degrade well in Calgarys short summer and often dry climate.

10
 seeding dat
es

PLANT DAYS TO GERMINATION INDOOR SEEDING OUTDOOR SEEDING

African daisy 7 - 10 Mar. 20 - 28 May 1 - 10

Ageratum 7 - 10 Feb. 20 - 28 May 1 - 15
Alyssum 5-6 Mar. 15 - 30 May 1 - 10
Amaranthus 8 - 10 Feb. 20 - 28 n/a
Aster 8 - 10 Mar. 1 - 15 May 1 - 10
Aubretia 20 Mar. 14 - 30 May 10 - 20
Baby blue eyes 7 - 14 Apr. 1 - 10 May 10 - 20
Babys breath 7 - 10 Mar. 15 - 30 May 1 - 10
Bachelors button 7 Mar. 15 - 30 May 1 - 10
Balsam 8 - 10 Mar. 1 - 20 May 1 - 10
Begonia 20 - 25 Feb. 1 - 20 n/a
Bells of Ireland 20 - 34 (chill) Mar. 1 - 15 Apr. 20 - 30
Black-eyed Susan 12 Feb. 1 - 10 n/a
Brachycome 14 - 21 Mar. 15 - 30 May 15 - 20
Canterbury bells 14 n/a May 15 - 30
Canary bird vine 15 - 21 n/a May 1 - 10
Calendula 6-9 Mar. 20 - 30 May 1 - 16
California poppy 24 Apr. 10 - 20 May 1 - 10
Candytuft 7 - 14 Mar. 1 - 20 May 1 - 15
Carnation 8 - 10 Mar. 1 - 10 May 10 - 15
Celosia 7 - 10 Mar. 10 - 20 May 15 - 20
Chinese lantern 20 - 23 Feb. 1 - 28 May 1 - 20
Chrysanthemum 10 (in dark) Mar. 1 - 10 May 15 - 20
Clarkia 6-9 n/a May 10 - 20
Cleome 5 - 14 Mar. 1 - 10 May 1 - 10
Coleus 10 - 12 Mar. 1 - 15 n/a
Columbine 21 - 27 Mar. 1 - 15 n/a
Cosmos 5-7 Apr. 1 - 10 May 10 - 20
Cynoglossum 14 - 21 Mar. 15 - 20 May 20 - 30
Dahlia 7 - 10 Mar. 10 - 20 May 10 - 20
Datura 21 - 60 Mar. 10 - 20 May 1 - 10
Dianthus 7-9 Mar. 1 - 10 May 1 - 10
Digitalis 7 - 14 Mar. 1 - 10 May 1 - 10
Dracaena 28 - 30 n/a n/a
Dusty Miller 15 - 20 Feb. 1 - 10 n/a
Euphorbia 12 - 18 Mar. 1 - 10 May 1 - 10
Four oclock 10 - 15 n/a June 1 - 10
Fuchsia 14 - 20 Mar. 1 - 10 n/a
Gaillardia 15 - 20 Mar. 1 - 10 May 1 - 10
Gazania 14 - 21 Feb. 10 - 20 n/a
Geranium 7 - 20 Jan. 10 - 25 n/a
Geum 10 - 20 Mar. 1 - 10 May 15 - 30
11 Godetia 10 Apr. 1 - 10 May 10 - 20
 PLANT DAYS TO GERMINATION INDOOR SEEDING OUTDOOR SEEDING

Gourd 5-7 Apr. 1 - 10 May 10 - 20

Helichrysum 7 - 10 May 15 - 30 June 1 - 10
Hollyhock 12 - 21 May 1 - 10 May 10 - 15
Impatiens 7 - 18 Feb. 15 - 20 n/a
Kale 14 - 21 Apr. 10 - 20 May 1 - 10
Larkspur 15 - 21 Mar. 1 - 10 May 1 - 10
Lathyrus 10 - 21 Mar. 1 - 10 May 1 - 10
Lavatera 10 - 15 Apr. 1 - 10 May 1 - 10
Livingstone daisy 15 - 21 Mar. 15 - 30 May 1 - 10
Lobelia 14 - 21 Feb. 20 - 28 n/a
Marigold 5 - 10 Mar. 10 - 20 May 15 - 25
Mimulus 14 - 21 Mar. 10 - 20 May 15 - 20
Money plant 20 Mar. 10 - 20 May 1 - 10
Mignonette 7 - 21 Mar. 15 - 30 May 15 - 30
Morning glory 5 - 10 Mar. 15 - 30 May 20
Nasturtium 10 - 12 Apr. 1 - 10 May 1 - 10
Nemesia 5 - 10 Mar. 1 - 10 May 10 - 2
Nicotiana 7 - 12 Mar. 1 - 10 May 1 - 10
Night scent stock 8 - 12 Mar. 20 - 30 May 10 - 20
Ornamental cabbage 14 - 21 Apr. 10 - 20 June 15 - 30
Pansy 8 - 15 Feb. 1 - 10 n/a
Petunia 7 - 12 Feb. 15 - 25 n/a
Phlox 8 - 10 Mar. 1 - 10 May 10 - 20
Poppy-Corn 10 - 21 Apr. 10 - 20 May 15 - 30
Poppy-Iceland 10 - 30 Mar. 20 - 30 May 15 - 30
Portulaca 7 - 10 Mar. 1 - 10 May 10 - 20
Pyrethrum daisy 10 Mar. 1 - 10 May 15 - 20
Salpiglossis 14 - 18 Mar. 15 - 25 May 10 - 20
Salvia 10 - 14 Mar. 1 - 10 n/a
Scabiosa 10 - 12 Mar. 10 - 20 May 10 - 20
Schizanthus 15 Mar. 1 - 10 May 10 - 20
Snapdragon 10 - 12 Mar. 1 - 15 May 10 - 20
Statice 14 - 18 Mar. 10 - 20 May 10 - 20
Stocks 7 - 10 Mar. 1 - 10 May 10 - 20
Strawflower 7 - 15 Apr. 10 - 20 May 10 - 20
Sunflower 6 - 10 n/a May 10 - 20
Sweet pea 10 - 14 n/a Apr. 15 - 20
Sweet William 7-9 Mar. 1 - 10 May 10 - 20
Verbena 12 - 18 Feb. 20 - 28 May 10 - 20
Vinca 14 - 21 Feb. 1 - 28 n/a
Viola 10 - 21 Mar. 1 - 10 May 10 - 20
Wildflower mix 7 - 14 n/a May 10 - 20
Zinnia 5 - 10 Apr. 1 - 10 May 20 - 30 12
 annuals
tip: In hot weather, plants in pots may need
watering more than once a day. Sometimes when
it does rain, many pots in sheltered spots, window
boxes and hanging baskets in particular, may not
receive enough water to keep them healthy.

Any plant that grows, flowers, produces seeds and

dies over the course of one year is considered an annual.
Annuals are an excellent way to ensure colour in your
yard all summer long. They are used for borders, in
beds, and to fill open spaces between immature shrubs
and trees. They overflow hanging baskets and window
boxes, as well as creep up walls or trellises. The variety
of uses and colour combinations is endless.

Annuals are available in both seed and seedling form.

Seeds are either sown indoors or outdoors. This will
depend on the growth requirements of the individual
plants. Annual seeds that require a longer period of
growth should be started indoors. These plants are
identified in the chart portion of the Annual section.

In many cases, with Calgarys short growing season,

annuals should be planted in seedling form after the
last chance of frost. These seedlings can either be grown
from seeds indoors or purchased in seedling form.

Note: When choosing a spot to plant, consider the annuals

growth habit. Tall plants may be best positioned at the backs of
beds where they will not block the view of smaller plants.

hanging annual baskets

These are annuals that hang down rather than grow
upwards, so they look attractive overhead or at head
height, hanging from railings, eaves of houses, gazebos,
etc. Different varieties of the same plants, such as
begonias and petunias, will grow upwards.

annual vines
These fast growing annuals are ideal for several garden
uses. Grow up a trellis or a fence to provide a lush
garden background or to camouflage an unattractive
spot in your yard. When left unsupported, annual vines
have a wandering growth habit and are quite effective
as a groundcover or a trailing border for beds.

See Seeds and Seedlings (pg. 9) for information on planting

and maintenance.

13
 Name Botanical Name Height/Spread Flower Colour
annuals Comments
Sun or Shade, In/Out Seed Date

annuals
AFRICAN DAISY Arctotis 12/18 in. 30/45 cm various
sun
Some hairy, smooth, or trailing leaves

AGERATUM Ageratum houstonianum 6/10 in. 15/25 cm mauve, blue, red, white
sun to part shade Feb. 20-28/May 1-15
Compact plant with wispy flower clusters, remove spent flowers

ALYSSUM, SWEET Lobularia maritima 8/10 in. 20/25 cm purple, white, lavender, rose
sun to part shade Mar. 15-30/May 1-10
Compact plant with dainty flowers; good edging plant, very fragrant; blooms from spring to frost

AMARANTHUS Amaranthus caudatus 24/18 in. 60/45 cm red

sun Feb. 20-28/n/a
Drooping red tassel flowers; dramatic accent plant

ASTER, CHINA Callistephus chinensis 6-24/8 in. 15-60/20 cm white, blue, red, purple, pink
sun Mar. 15-30/May 1-10
Blooms late in the summer with daisy and pompom flower forms, good cutting flower

BABYS BREATH Gysophila elegans 8-24/12 in. 20-60/30 cm white, pink

sun Mar. 15-30/May 1-10
Plentiful clusters of delicate flowers, good for drying

BACHELORS BUTTON Centaurea cyanus 18/10 in. 45/25 cm blue, pink

sun Feb. 15-30/Apr. 15-30
Truly blue flowers that readily re-seed, frost tolerant

BACOPA Satura cordata 3-24 in. 7.5-61 cm blue, white, pink

part shade
Low spreading annual, tiny flowers

BEGONIA, WAX Begonia semperflorens 8/6 in. 20/15 cm red, pink, white
shade Feb. 1-20/n/a
Colourful clusters of flowers; green or bronze fleshy leaves and fibrous roots

BEGONIA, TUBEROUS Begonia tuberhybrida 14/12 in. 35/30 cm red, pink, yellow, white
shade n/a
Large showy double flowers; available as plant only

14
 Name Botanical Name Height/Spread Flower Colour
annuals Comments
Sun or Shade, In/Out Seed Date

BELLFLOWER Campanula 1/6 ft. 30/183 cm blue, lavender, violet, purple, white
sun to part shade Mar. 1-15/Apr. 20-30
Beautifully shaped flower heads

BELLS OF IRELAND Moluccella laevis 24/12 in. 60/30 cm green, white

sun Mar. 1-15/Apr. 20-30
Tiny white flowers in green bells; with squared stems, and toothed leaves

BIDENS Compositae 3/5 ft. 91/152 cm yellow, white

sun Feb. 15/n/a
Blooms late summer

BRACHYCOME/SWAN RIVER DAISY Brachycome iberidifolia 10/10 in. 25/25 cm purple, yellow, blue, white
sun to part shade Mar. 15-30/May 15-30
Gold-eyed daisy-like flowers with fern-like foliage; good plant for containers

BROWALLIA Browallia speciosa major 12/12 in. 30/30 cm white, violet

shade Feb. 20-28/May 1-15
Trumpet-shaped blossoms; likes shelter and shade

CALENDULA Calendula officinalis 12/8 in. 30/20 cm yellow, orange

sun Mar. 20-30/May 1-15
Similar to true marigolds; cool location, will self-seed

CANDYTUFT, GLOBE Iberis umbellata 12/12 in. 30/30 cm. pink, purple
sun Mar. 1-10/May 1-15
Compact plant with umbrella-shaped flower clusters; available as seed only

CARNATION Dianthus caryophyllus 12/8 in. 30/20 cm various

sun Mar. 1-10/May 1-15
Strong stemmed, with fragrant flowers; frost tolerant

CELOSIA Celosia spp. 12/6 in. 30/15 cm various

sun Mar. 10-20/May 1-15
Feathery, plumed, or crested, comb-like large flowers, heat and drought tolerant, good for cutting

CHRYSANTHEMUM Chrysanthemum 12/24 in. 30/61 cm various

sun Mar. 1-10/May 15-20
Over 160 species

15
 Name Botanical Name Height/Spread Flower Colour
annuals Comments
Sun or Shade, In/Out Seed Date

CLEOME Cleome hasslerana 36/12 in. 90/30 cm pink, purple, white

sun Mar. 1-10/May 1-10
Clusters of flowers with a spidery appearance, tall stems, heat tolerant

COLEUS Coleus x hybridus 12/10 in. 30/25 cm varied, red/yellow

part shade to shade Mar. 1-15/n/a
Grown for colourful foliage; a combination of multi-colored leaves

COSMOS Cosmos bipinnatus 10-36/24 in. 25-90/60 cm pink, white, lavender,

sun Apr. 1-10/May 10-20 yellow/red, chocolate
This plant has feathery foliage with daisy-like flowers, needs staking

DAHLBERG DAISY Thymophylla tenuiloba 4-8/6 in. 10-20/ cm yellow

full sun n/a
Low-growing daisy with ferny foliage, can reseed, good for edging

DAHLIA Dahlia pinnata 12-24/10 in. 30-60/25 cm various

sun Mar. 10-20/May 10-20
This late summer bloomer adds color to a garden in late summer and early fall, good cut flower

DATURA Datura spp. 4/2 ft. 1/.5 m white, yellow, mauve

sun Mar. 10-20/May 1-10
An exotic plant, with large trumpet flowers. All plant parts poisonous

DIANTHUS/CHINA PINK Dianthus chinensis 12/8 in. 30/20 cm red, pink, white
sun to part shade Mar. 1-10/May 1-10
Fringed flowers, similar to carnations; fragrant and frost tolerant

DRACAENA Dracaena indivisa 36/24 in. 90/60 cm green foliage

sun to part shade n/a
Grown for its foliage and rosettes of sword shaped leaves; frost tolerant, available as plant only

DUSTY MILLER Senecio cineraria 8-16 /8 in. 20-40/20 cm silver foliage

sun Feb. 1-10/n/a
Grown for its white foliage, this plant has hairy, divided leaves; drought and frost tolerant

FOUR OCLOCK Mirabilis jalapa 30/20 in. 75/50 cm various

sun n/a/June 1-15
Trumpet-like flowers open in late afternoon and stay open all night Available as seed only

FUCHSIA Fuchsia hybrida 2 ft. 60 cm red, purple, pink, white

part shade to shade Mar. 1-10
Woody shrub with bi-coloured, drooping flowers. Great for hanging baskets

GAILLARDIA Guillardia pulchella 18-36/12 in. 46-90/30 cm yellow, orange, crimson

sun Mar. 24/n/a
Brilliant daisy like flowers
16
 Name Botanical Name Height/Spread Flower Colour
annuals Comments
Sun or Shade, In/Out Seed Date

GAZANIA Gazania splendens 12/12 in. 30/30 cm yellow, orange

full sun Feb. 10-20/n/a
Daisy-like flowers close at night

GERANIUM Pelargonium x hybrida 20-36/20 in. 50/50-80 cm red, pink, white

sun to part shade Jan. 10-15/n/a
There are four types of geraniums: zonal, ivy, pillar and Martha Washington; some good for hanging baskets

GODETIA Clarkia amoena 18/12 in. 45/30 cm red, pink, white

sun to part shade Apr. 10-20/May 10-20
Showy 2 inch wide, cup-like blossoms, good for cutting

HELIOTROPE Heliotrope arborescens 12-24/12/24 in. 30/60 20/60 cm blue, dark violet, white
full sun, light shade n/a
Bushy plant with fruity, vanilla fragrance, spikes of flower clusters, plant only

IMPATIENS Impatiens wallerana 10/10 in. 25/25 cm red, pink, white

shade Mar. 1-15/June 1-15
Masses of single or double flowers; for sheltered, shaded sites

IMPATIENS, NEW GUINEA Impatiens New Guinea 10/10 in. 25/25 cm red, pink, white
shade Feb 15-20/n/a
Large flowers on variegated foliage; for sheltered, shaded sites. Rich soil required

KALE, CABBAGE ORNAMENTAL Brassica oleracea 12/16 in. 30/40 cm pink, white
sun Apr. 10-20/May 1-10
Colourful rosettes of foliage; colour shows in cool temperatures, tolerates frost

LANTANA Lantana camara 18/18 in. 45/45 cm orange, yellow, pink

sun to part sun n/a
Attracts butterflies; does well in hot, dry area; available as plant only; good in planters

LAVATERA Lavatera trimestris 36/24 in. 90/60 cm pink, white, rose

sun Apr. 1-10/May 1-10
Large cup-like flowers; easy to start from seed

LISIANTHUS Eustoma grandiflorum 8/36 in. 20/90 cm purple, pink, white, blue
sun Mar. 1
Flowering from early summer to frost; well drained soil

LIVINGSTONE DAISY Mesembryanthemum crystallinum 6/6 in. 15/15 cm pink, red, lavender
sun Mar. 15-30/May 1-10
Daisy-like flowers; likes a windy, hot, dry area

LOBELIA Lobelia erinus 4-12/6 in. 10-30/15 cm blue, red, white, mixed
shade to part shade Feb. 20-28/n/a
Both trailing and compact forms are available, with delicate flowers for edging
17
 tip: In May, thin hardy annuals and vegetables
planted in the open ground before they become
crowded and compete with each other for light
and nutrients.

Name Botanical Name Height/Spread Flower Colour

annuals Comments
Sun or Shade, In/Out Seed Date

MARIGOLD, AFRICAN Tagetes erecta 12-36/12 in. 30-80/30 cm orange, yellow

sun Apr. 1-15/May 15-30
Tall plants with lacy leaves and large flowers

MARIGOLD, FRENCH Tagetes patula 6-18/6 in. 15-40/15 cm yellow, orange

sun Mar. 10-20/May 15-25
Solid and bicolor flowers

MARIGOLD SIGNATA Tagetes knuifolia 6-8/6 in. 15-20/20 cm gold, lemon yellow, tangerine
sun Mar. 10-20/May 15-25
Lacy foliage with a citrus fragrance, grown as much for the foliage as the tiny flowers

MEXICAN HEATHER Cuphea hyssopifolia 24/18-36 in. 30/45-90 cm purple, lavender, white, pink
part shade
Long stems topped with dainty flower heads

MONKEY FLOWER Mimulus x hybridus 10/6 in. 25/15 cm red, yellow, orange
shade Mar. 10-20/May 15-20
Bi-coloured flowers suitable for moist shaded area

NASTURTIUM Tropaeolum majus 10/10 in. 25/25 cm red, yellow, orange

sun to part shade Apr. 1-10/May 1-10
Dwarf plants with edible foliage and flowers; easy to grow from seed, do not fertilize

NEMESIA Nemesia strumosa 12/6 in. 30/15 cm various

sun to part shade Mar. 1-10/May 10-20
Flowers resemble miniature orchids, grow in a cool location

NICOTIANA Nicotiana alata 12-36/10 in. 30-90/25 cm red, wine, rose, lavender, white
sun to part shade Mar. 1-10/May 1-10
Fragrant, star-shaped flowers; also known as flowering tobacco

NIEREMBERGIA Nierembergia caerulea 4-8/12 in. 10-20/30 cm white, dark purple

sun to part shade Mar. 15-30/June 1-15
Flower has a golden eye, plant forms a neat dense mat that is covered in flowers; frost tolerant

PANSY Viola x wittrockiana 6-8/6 in. 15-20/15 cm various

shade Feb. 1-10/n/a
Hardy and frost tolerant, these short plants grow best in shaded, moist areas, cool season bloomers

PETUNIA Petunia x hybrida 16/8 in. 40/20 cm various

sun to part shade Feb. 15-20/ n/a
Double or single annual flowers; spreading or cascading growth, tolerates light frost

PHLOX Phlox drummondii 6-8/6 in. 15-20/15 cm various

sun to part shade Mar. 1-10/May 1-10
A compact plant with a long lasting bloom period, good cut flower
18
 Name Botanical Name Height/Spread Flower Colour
annuals Comments
Sun or Shade, In/Out Seed Date

POPPY, CALIFORNIA Eschscholzia californica 16-24/6 in. 40-60/15 cm orange

sun Apr. 10-20/May 1-10
Saucer-shaped flowers all summer, grayish-green foliage

POPPY, CORN Papaver rhoeas 16-24/18 in. 40-60/45 cm red, pink, white, salmon
sun Apr. 10-20/May 15-30
European wild field poppy, also known as Flanders or Shirley poppy

PORTULACA Portulaca grandiflora 4/6 in. 10/15 cm various bright colors

sun Mar. 1-10/May 10-20
Succulent plant with rose-like blooms for hot, dry areas, close on cloudy days

SALPIGLOSSIS Salpiglossis sinuata 24-36/12 in. 60-80/30 cm rose, orange, purple, red, yellow
sun to part shade Mar. 15-25/May 10-20
Petunia-like flowers with veined petals; back of border, good cut flower

SALVIA Salvia spp. 6-24/15-60 in. 30/30 cm red, blue, salmon, purple, white
sun Mar. 1-10/n/a
Erect, bushy plant, uniquely shaped flowers in vivid colours, good cut flower

SCAEVOLA Scaevola aemula 8/10 in. 20/25 cm blue, pink, white

sun Apr. 1-10
Tiny blue flowers, great for hanging

SCHIZANTHUS Schizanthus x wisetonensis 12/12 in. 30/30 cm white, red , blue, pink, purple
sun to part shade Mar. 1-10/May 10-20
Spectacular show of lacy leaves and orchid-like flowers, good container or hanging basket plant

SNAPDRAGON Antirrhinum majus 6-36/12 in. 60/30-90 cm various

sun, part shade Mar. 1-15/May 10-20
Flower spikes bloom from base up, shear for second bloom; good for edging to back of border; frost tolerant

STATICE Limonium sinuatum 18/12 in. 45/30 cm blue, yellow, purple, lavender
sun Mar. 10-20/May 10-20
Flower spikes with papery petals; good for dried flowers

STOCK, NIGHT SCENTED Matthiola bicornis 14/8 in. 35/20 cm lavender

sun to part shade Mar. 20-30/May 10-20
Flower spikes with four-petaled blooms forming a cross, scent strongest in evening

STOCK, TEN-WEEK Matthiola incana 30/8 in. 75/20 cm various

sun to part shade Mar. 1-10/May 10-20
Long, dense, flower spikes; good cut flower, very fragrant

STRAWFLOWER Helichrysum bracteatum 24-36/8 in. 60-90/20 cm various

sun Apr. 10-20/May 10-20
Daisy-like flowers with straw-like naturally dry flowers
19
 Name Botanical Name Height/Spread Flower Colour
annuals Comments
Sun or Shade, In/Out Seed Date

SUNFLOWER Helianthus annuus 1-12 ft./1-3 ft. 30-360/30-90 cm gold, amber, burgundy, red
sun April 1/May 10-20
Many varieties of tall stemmed flowers with large heads, tall varieties need staking

SWEET PEA Lathyrus odoratus Knee High 24-30/8 in./60-75 cm various

sun April 1/April 15-20
Shorter sweet peas for garden beds, good for cut flowers, easily grown from seed

TORENIA Torenia fournieri 6/8 in. 15/20 cm burgundy, white, blue

part shade Mar. 20
Wishbone flower, does well in baskets, keep moist

VERBENA Verbena x hybrida 12/12 in. 30/30 cm various

sun Feb. 20-28/May 10-20
Both upright and trailing varieties available, round flower clusters in bright colours; good border plant

WEE WILLIE Dianthus barbatus 4/6 in. 10/15 cm pink, red, white
sun Mar. 1-15/June 1-15
Bushy, flattened heads of colourful flowers in June and July, good border plant

ZINNIA Zinnia elegans 6-36/15-60 in. 30/30 cm various

sun April 1-10/May 20-30
Showy, with round flowers; likes hot dry areas

annual vines
ASARINA Asarina spp. 7 ft. 2 m pink, purple, red
sun Feb. 15-28
Trailing vine with large, trumpet-shaped flowers

BLACK EYED SUSAN VINE Thunbergia alata 3 ft. 1 m orange, yellow

sun or part shade April 10-20
Arrow shaped leaves; colourful individually borne flowers with dark centers

CANARY BIRD VINE Tropaeolum peregrinum 7 ft. 2 m yellow

sun or part shade May 1-10
Annual climber with 5-lobed leaves and cut petaled flowers

CHILEAN GLORY VINE Eccremocarpus scaber 5-6 ft. 1.5-2 m yellow, orange, red
sun Mar. 1-15
Bunches of small tubular blooms

FUCHSIA Fuchsia hybrida 2 ft. 60 cm red, purple, pink, white

part shade to shade Mar. 1-10
Woody shrub with bi-coloured, drooping flowers. Great for hanging baskets
20
 Name Botanical Name Height/Spread Flower Colour
annuals Comments
Sun or Shade, In/Out Seed Date

GREATER PERIWINKLE Vinca major 2 ft. 60 cm blue

part shade to shade n/a
Variegated trailing foliage

HYACHINTH BEAN Dolichos lablab 6 ft. 1.8 m lilac

sun Mar. 1-15
Flowers form purple edible pods; twining climber

KENILWORTH IVY Cymbalaria muralis 2 ft. 60 cm pink

part shade to shade Feb. 15-20
Tiny blooms, small foliage, tiny orchid-like flowers; available as seedling only

LICORICE VINE Helichrysum petiolatum 3ft. 1m silver foliage

sun n/a
Attractive lemon, silver/white, silver green, and grey foliage

LOTUS VINE Lotus berthelotii 24-30 in. 60-75 cm red

sun n/a
Climbing vine with red, orange and yellow flowers

LOTUS VINE Lotus maculata 24-30 in. 60-75 cm yellow

sun n/a
Trailing, silvery grey foliage, long, thin flowers, good for containers

MOON VINE Ipomoea alba 10 ft. 3 m white

sun Mar. 15-30
Large fragrant flowers that open at night; available as seedling only

MORNING GLORY Ipomoea purpurea 10 ft. 3 m blue

sun Mar. 15-30
Large trumpet-shaped flowers; great for screening

ORANGE TRUMPET Pyrostegia venusta 10/20 ft. 305/610 cm orange

sun n/a
Creeper. Flowers from May or August

PURPLE BELLS Rhodochiton atrosanguineus 3-5 ft. 1-1.5 m. purple

sun or part shade Mar. 20-31
Good for hangers, planters; tubular flowers; available as seedling only

PURPLE CLIMBER Cobaea scandens 12 ft. 4 m violet

sun n/a
Bell-shaped flowers with green sepals; great for hanging baskets

21
 tip: Plant hanging baskets early and keep them in
a greenhouse or frost-free conservatory or porch.

Name Botanical Name Height/Spread Flower Colour

annuals Comments
Sun or Shade, In/Out Seed Date

SCARLET RUNNER BEAN Phaseolus coccineus 7 ft. 2 m. red

sun n/a/May 25
Vine has red, flower clusters, edible beans; seeds can be planted directly outdoors

SPANISH FLAG Mina lobata 5-6ft. 1.5-2m. red, orange, yellow

sun April 1
Twining climber; 3 flower colors same time

SWEET PEA Lathyrus odoratus 10 ft. 3 m. pink, white, blue, red, cream, purple
sun or part shade n/a/April 20
Old-fashioned favorite with fragrant flowers; seeds can be planted directly outdoors

SWEET POTATO VINE Ipomoea batatus 2-3 ft.. 60-75 cm. purple foliage
sun to part shade n/a
Used primarily for hanging baskets and ground cover, grown for colourful foliage

hanging baskets
BACOPA Satura cordata white, pink
part shade
Low spreading annual, tiny flowers

BIDENS Bidens ferulifolia yellow

sun
Compact, bright, longlasting flowers, heat tolerant

BEGONIA,TUBEROUS Begonia tuberhybrida pink, red ,white, orange, yellow

shade
Showy, large, double flowers

MILLION BELLS Calibrachoa blue, pink, white

sun or shade
Small vividly coloured petunia-like flowers

COLEUS Coleus hybridus various

part shade
Grown for its colourful foliage

FUCHSIA Fuchsia hybrida red, white, purple

part shade
Drooping bi-colored flowers

GERANIUM, IVY Pelargonium peltatum red, pink, white

sun
Durable plant with divided leaves
22
 Name Botanical Name Height/Spread Flower Colour
annuals Comments
Sun or Shade, In/Out Seed Date

IMPATIENS Impatiens walleriana hybrids various

shade
Single or double varieties

IMPATIENS, NEW GUINEA New guinea hybrid various

shade
Large flowers on variegated foliage

SCAEVOLA Scaevola aemula blue, pink, white

sun or shade
Blue Wonder variety

SUPERTUNIA Petunia hybrida various various

sun or shade
Single & double varieties, grows quickly

SURFINIA PETUNIA Petunia hybrid various

sun or part shade
Heat tolerant single varieties with a long bloom period

TORENIA Torenia fournieri compacta blue

part shade
Bright tuberous flowers, does well in baskets, keep moist

VERBENA Verbena hybrida various

sun
Trailing foliage with clusters of brightly colored flowers

Note: mixed containers are available pre-planted in our greenhouse for both the sun and shade.

23

gardeners secrets - annuals Watering Tips
Placement & Planting Tips
Place plants according to sun/shade tolerance. Also
take into account growing conditions, such as
downspouts, and shady spots.
Plant slightly deeper than pot level, usually about 1cm.
Cover the old root ball.
Start seeds indoors according to the seeding dates on
pages 11 & 12 of this book. Beginning gardeners might
want to try the Jiffy Professional Greenhouse.
Seeds for annuals can be planted outdoors as soon as
the ground can be worked. McKenzie Seeds offers a
huge variety of quality seeds.
annuals
Water slowly and deeply soaking the root ball regularly
depending on conditions. More water is required when
temperature is warmer.
Feeding Tips
Aerate the soil with the mineral Zeolite, which helps to
promote the slower release of nutrients and also helps
to break up clay.
Feed annuals with regularity using a good quality all
purpose fertilizer. A good choice is Plant-Prod Ultimate
- All Purpose 20-20-20.
Maintenance Tips
Deadhead flowering annuals to extend the flowering
season. Deadheading is removing spent flowers to
encourage re-blooming.
24
 2011
Perennial of the Year
Aruncus dioicus
(Goatsbeard, Goats Beard)

Zone: 2-9
Sun Exposure: Full Sun to Part Shade
Appearance: Substantial perennial with compound leaves held on fine stems that
provide a lacy look. A spectacular plant when in flower with large cream plumes that bloom
in late June or early July followed by ornamental seed heads in the fall.

Plant Charastics:
Adds height and mass to shady parts of the garden
Will tolerate full sun if evenly moist soil is provided
Prefers soil amended with organic matter
Can be propagated by division
Deer & rabbit resistant

This perennial adds great presence to shady garden locations. Collectively the tiny white
flowers create dramatic creamy-white plumes that catch the eye in mid-summer. Once the
blooms have faded, the bulk of dark green, divided fern-like foliage continues to offer the
perfect backdrop for nearby border plants.

25
My 25 years in the Calgary garden centre industry have
been measured by the number of springs. Spring is the
most important season of the year and it brings a sense
of rejuvenation. With each spring come thoughts of creating
a new garden or changing our existing landscape.
A garden is a very personal space. You want it to reflect
your tastes and dreams but also be functional. There are
many considerations: how much time can I devote to my
garden each week? Will I need a space for the kids to
play? Do I want a native landscape or should I build a
pond? What trees and shrubs grow well in Calgary? It
can be a pleasant but daunting task to plan a landscape
and this is where greengate comes in!
greengate is pleased to offer a professional landscape
design and consultation service. We understand that
your garden is your personal retreat and sanctuary and
we would like to help you make that happen. We offer
detailed cad landscape designs or hourly consultation at
your home. We keep abreast of the latest plants and
gardening trends. It is our pleasure to make your
gardening dreams come true.
So please call for an appointment or better yet come by
and plan to spend a few hours enjoying our beautiful
garden centre. It will rejuvenate you!
Kathy MCAndrew
Landscape Design Consultant
Journeyman Landscape Gardener
Landscape Industry Certified
26
 perennials
Perennials are non-woody plants that live
longer than two years. They generally bloom once a
year, for anywhere from a day to more than a month.
Most perennials die back to their roots in the fall,
although some varieties will remain green throughout
the winter.
Some perennials, like bellis and delphinium, have a
short lifespan, and may live for only four or five years.
Other perennial plants, such as aster and peony, can
last for decades with little attention. Perennial plants
give you a large selection of colour options and you can
look forward to their return every year. They are also
considerably easier to move than most shrubs.
Do not expect your perennial plants to flower the first
year that they are planted. It will usually take the plant
a full season to become well established and it will
flower the second year.
Perennial vines will come back again season after season,
unlike tender annual vines. These hardy vines flower on
old or new wood, and provide excellent privacy or
decoration when grown up a trellis or a wall.
clematis
These hardy perennial vines are known for their
profusion of colourful flowers. Due to the differences in
pruning requirements for various clematis they are
classified into three major pruning groups for maintenance.
group A These clematis flower only on the
previous years growth. When blooming is finished, in
June, prune off dead or weak stems.
group B These clematis bloom on previous years
growth, often in early summer and again in late summer.
Unfortunately, they are not hardy enough here for the
summers growth to survive the winter - they die back
to almost ground level, so they rarely bloom here. They
are a challenge.
27
group C These clematis flower only on the current
years growth. They are the most commonly grown, as
they flower most of the summer, with little care.
Clematis need varying amounts of sun for healthy
growth. Some need full sun, while others can tolerate
almost total shade. Read labels or ask questions before
making a choice.
Note: Clematis should be planted approximately six inches
deeper than they are in the pot.
dividing perennials
If the flower quality and quantity drops in your mature
perennials this may be a sign of overcrowding, and
they may need dividing. Some may simply have
outgrown the place they are in, or other plants, as they
grow, may be creating too much shade for sun loving
perennials. Many perennials form clumps of stems.
These stems are actually individual plants with their
own root systems. Some perennials cannot be divided,
if they grow from one central stalk. Early blooming
perennials should be divided in early fall. When all the
leaves have fallen, gently dig up the plant and separate
the roots of the individual clumps to be removed.
Replant the removed plants in an appropriate place in
the garden. Later flowering perennials should be divided
in the same way in the spring, as soon as they are
showing growth.
perennial maintenance
Routine feeding and watering will generally be enough
to satisfy the nutritional needs of perennial plants through
their growing season. Spent flowers on perennial plants
should be removed, or deadheaded, to encourage flower
production. Perennials may be pruned back and
mulched for extra protection in the fall. This mulch
should be removed in the spring. If you do not wish to
mulch, leave foliage on plants, as leaves will collect
snow for insulation and moisture during the winter.
Dead foliage should be pruned away in the spring.
Perennials are permanent! If you are going to
share your garden with them, it should be fun. They
have many uses and places to be, and give us a great
deal of pleasure. Most of our perennials are offspring of
our native wildflowers. They are hardy here because
they have been here longer than we have. However, it is
a good idea to learn a little about where they would
prefer to settle down.
Labels can tell you a lot. Most of them will tell you
the common name and botanical name, how tall and
wide the plant is likely to grow, flower color, when it
blooms, preference for sun or shade, and growing zone.
All need well-drained soil, but some prefer moist soil
and some are happier in dry areas. Some like sun, some
like shade. Those marked zones 1 to 4 are quite hardy
here, but those listed as zone 5 or higher probably wont
survive the winter.
How do you decide what to buy? There are many
reasons for choosing a particular plant - the shape and
color of the leaves, flower color and structure, time of
blooming, fragrance and memories of past gardens.
With a little imagination and research, you can have
perennials blooming in your garden from early spring to
late fall.
Keep in mind that a plant in a four inch pot will grow
larger, sometimes much larger! Allow space for it to
mature. Planting smaller varieties in clusters gives a
better show, but some perennials will become large
enough to be on their own. Start with taller plants in the
background, and arrange in groupings according to
height, spread, color and blooming time. Once you have
seen your perennials thriving, it might be time to try
something new and exciting. Avid gardeners are always
looking for unusual or challenging perennials.
Once perennials are established, they need little
maintenance. Remove debris from the area in the
spring, water when needed, and fertilize in spring and
early summer. In the fall, tall plants can be cut down to
18-24 inches (45-60 cm.) , or left throughout the winter.
They will trap dry leaves and snow, which helps to
insulate the roots over the winter.
We hope you enjoy your perennials. They require little
work, and it is quite relaxing to walk in your garden,
appreciate their beauty, and realize that you did it!
written by: Donna Hubman
28
 perennials
Name Botanical Name Height/Spread Flower Colour
Sun or Shade Zone Blooms
Comments

AJUGA-BUGLEWEED Ajuga reptans 8/18 in. 15/45 cm bluish purple

sun to shade 3 May to June
Low ground cover with bronze coloured, round leaves, moist soil

AJUGA-GENEVA BUGLEWEED Ajuga genevensis 12/18 in. 20/45 cm bluish purple

sun to shade 2 May to June
Widely used ground cover, forming a mat of rounded leaves, moist soil

ALYSSUM-BASKET OF GOLD Alyssum montanum 8/24 in. 20/60 cm yellow

sun or part shade 3 May to June
Varying shades of cascading yellow flowers, with silver leaves

ARMERIA-LARGE THRIFT Armeria pseudarmeria 24/12 in. 60/30 cm pink, red, white
sun 2 June to Aug.
Tall border strain with various flower shades; good for cut or dried flowers

ARMERIA-THRIFT Armeria juniperifolia 6/12 in. 15/30 cm pink, red

sun 3 May to July
Evergreen with grassy leaves, flowers fade into papery everlastings

ASTER-ALPINE Aster alpinus 12/12 in. 30/30 cm pink, purple

sun 2 May to June
Short plants displaying star-shaped, daisy-like flowers

ASTER-FALL Aster novae-angliae 48/36 in. 120/90 cm pink, purple, red

sun 3 Aug. to Sept.
Tall varieties that are good for cut flowers

ASTILBE-FALSE SPIREA Astilbe species 10-36/30 in. 25-90/75 cm various

part shade 3 June to Aug.
Many varieties with varying foliage and flower colour, moist

AUBRETIA/ROCKCRESS Aubretia hybrids 6/24 in. 15/60 cm pink, purple, red

sun 4 May to June
Cascading grey-green foliage; good for rock gardens and embankments

BABYS BREATH-CREEPING Gypsophila repens 6/24 in. 15/60 pink, white

sun to shade 2 June to July
Small delicate flowers in a low mat; good for edging or rock gardens

BACHELORS BUTTON Centaurea montana 24/24 in. 60/60 cm blue

sun 2 June to Aug.
Classic shaped blue flowers with grey-blue foliage

29
 tip: Hand weeding is the best way to control weed
seedlings in the perennial garden.

perennials
Name Botanical Name Height/Spread Flower Colour
Sun or Shade Zone Blooms
Comments

BALLOON FLOWER Platycodon grandiflorus 30/24 in. 75/60 cm purple, white

sun to shade 3 June to Aug.
Buds and flowers have an inflated balloon-like appearance

BARRENWORT Epimedium hybrids 12/12 in. 30/30 cm pink, yellow

shade 4 May to June
Semi-evergreen foliage, bronze to green in colour

BELLFLOWER Campanula species 4-36/12 in. 10-90/30 cm various

sun or shade 2 May to July
Cup-shaped flowers on compact clumps; many varieties

BERGENIA-HEARTLEAF Bergenia cordifolia 18/24 in. 45/60 cm pink, white

sun or shade 2 June to July
Clusters of flowers in the spring, large glossy leaves turn bronze in fall

BLEEDING HEART-FERNLEAF Dicentra eximia 12-18/12 in. 30-45/30 cm pink, white

part shade 3 June to Sept.
Compact mounds with fern-like foliage, heart-shaped, tidy flowers

BLEEDING HEART Dicentra spectabilis 36/24 in. 90/60 cm pink, white

part shade 2 May to June
Drooping heart-shaped flowers, old-fashioned favourite

BUGBANE Actaeas simplex White Pearl 4/2 ft. 120/60 cm white

part shade 3 September
Large flowers on long stems; good cut flower, moist

BUGBANE Actaeas racemosa Atropurpurea 6 ft/1.8.m /2/60 cm white

August
Dark purple foliage, tall flower spikes, lacy leaves, red berries

BUNCHBERRY Cornus canadensis 4-6/ in. 10-15/ cm white

part shade 2 May to June
Native ground cover with glossy leaves

CAMPION ROSE Lychnis species 4-30/12 in. 6-12/15-30 cm pink

sun 3 June -August
Low rock garden or taller border types, add bright summer color

CANDY TUFT Iberis sempervirens 10/36 in. 25/90 cm white

sun to shade 3 May to June
Evergreen with delicate flowers; good ground cover

CLIFF GREEN Paxistima canbyi 12/18 in. 30/45 cm

part shade 2
Shade tolerant, low evergreen, small, dark green leaves, good ground cover, moist
30
 perennials
Name Botanical Name Height/Spread Flower Colour
Sun or Shade Zone Blooms
Comments

COLUMBINE-HYBRIDS Aquilegia x hybrida 6/24 in. 90/60 cm various

sun to part shade 2 May to June
Many flowers on long stems, available in several varieties and colours

CONEFLOWER Echinacea purpurea 48/24 in. 120/60 cm purple, white

sun 3 July to Sept.
Long-lasting, daisy-like, drooping flowers with a central cone

CORAL BELLS Heuchera hybrids 24/12 in. 60/30 cm Small, white, pink or red
sun or part shade 3 May to July
Dainty flowers on tall stems, colourful leaves, moist/well-drained

CORNFLOWER-PERSIAN Centaurea dealbata 30/24 in. 75/60 cm pink-purple

sun 3 June to Aug.
Shrub-like perennial with thistle-like flowers; good cut flower

CREEPING CHARLIE Glechoma hederacea 4/36 in. 10/90 cm n/a

sun or shade 1 n/a
Fast growing, invasive ground cover grown for its foliage; also available with variegated leaves

CREEPING JENNY Lysimachia nummularia 4/18 in. 10/45 cm gold, yellow

sun to shade 2 May to Aug.
Long stems form fast growing ground cover or hanging plant

CUPIDS DART Catananche caerulea 24/12 in. 60/30 cm lavender

sun 3 July to Aug.
Drought resistant plant with gray-green foliage, papery flower, good cut or dried

CUSHION SPURGE Euphorbia polychroma 18/18 in. 45/45 cm yellow

sun 3 May to June
Foliage forms a dome covered in yellow flowers; drought tolerant

DAYLILY Hemerocallis x hybrida 16-36/12-24 in. 40-90/30-60 cm various

sun to shade 2 July to Aug.
Plants form sturdy clumps of grassy foliage; many flower colours and varieties available

DELPHINIUM Delphinium species 1-6/1 ft-30-180/60 cm various

sun 3 June to Aug.
Colourful double flowered spikes in many colours and varieties; good cut flower

DIANTHUS Dianthus species 2-18/6 in. 5-45/15 cm various

sun 3 May to Aug.
Grass-like clumps of foliage in many varieties; scented flowers good for cutting, some good for rockeries

31
perennials
Name Botanical Name Height/Spread Flower Colour
Sun or Shade Zone Blooms
Comments

EDELWEISS Leontopodium alpinum 6/10 in. 15/25 cm white

sun 3 June to July
Alpine growth habit, with gray foliage, attractive in rock gardens; good cut flower

ENGLISH DAISY Bellis perennis 4-8/8 in. 10/20 cm pink, red

sun 3 May to June
Old favorite used for border edging; biennial plant will flower second year, moist

ERINUS Erinus alpinus 4/6 in. 10/15 cm mauve

part shade 3 May to July
Alpine evergreen plant; good for rock garden

EVENING PRIMROSE Oenothera pallida 12/12 in. 30/30 cm white

sun 4 June to Aug.
Large flowers open in the evening; drought tolerant

FALSE LAMIUM Lamiastrum galeobdolon 12/12 in. 30/30 cm yellow

shade 2 May to June
Attractive variegated silver foliage; vigorous grower as a ground cover

FERN-FIDDLEHEAD/OSTRICH Matteuccia struthiopteris 4/2 ft. 120/60 cm green foliage

shade 1 n/a
Native plant with edible heads; good filler for shady areas, moist

FEVERFEW Chrysanthemum (Tanacetum) parthenium 24/12 in. 60/30 cm white, yellow

sun to shade 3 June to Sept.
Daisy-like flowers with aromatic foliage; good cut flower, invasive

FLAX Linum perenne 18/12 in. 45/30 cm blue, white

sun or shade 4 May to Aug.
Continual blooms throughout season

FLEABANE Erigeron hybrids 6-30/24 in 15-75/60 cm pink, blue

sun 1 May to Aug.
Sprays of small, daisy-like flowers, good cut flower

FLEECEFLOWER Persizaria hybrids 6-30/24 in. 15-75/60 cm red

sun or shade 3 June to Aug.
Several varieties with short spikes of flowers; low mat of leathery leaves turn red in fall

FOAMFLOWER Tiarella cordifolia 12/12 in. 30/30 cm pink

shade 4 May to July
Evergreen with bronze winter colour; summer sprays of flowers, moist

FORGET-ME-NOT Myosotis scorpioides 8/8 in. 20/20 cm sky blue

sun or shade 3 May to June
Spring flowering, low growing stems; available in perennial and biennial varieties, moist
32
 perennials
Name Botanical Name Height/Spread Flower Colour
Sun or Shade Zone Blooms
Comments

FOXGLOVE Digitalis hybrids 24-36/18 in. 60-80/45 cm various

sun or shade 4 May to July
Large flower spikes; good for cut flowers; many varieties, biennial, moist/drained

GAILLARDIA/BLANKET FLOWER Gaillardia x grandiflora 36/12 in. 90/30 cm red/gold, yellow, burgundy
sun 2 June to Sept.
Several colors of daisy-like flowers; long-blooming in hot areas

GAS PLANT Dictamnus albus Purpureus 36/24 in. 90/60 cm lavender, white
sun 2 June to July
Flower spikes rise above large clumps of compact foliage

GENTIAN Gentiana species 4-8/12-24 in. 10-20/30-60 cm blue

part shade 2 May to Sept.
Several species of plants forming clumps or mats; true blue flowers in spring or summer, moist

GERANIUM/CRANESBILL Geranium hybrids 4-24/6-24 in. 10-60/30-60 cm various

sun to shade 3 June to Aug.
Mounding or low spreading ground cover with profuse flowers and fine leaves; many varieties

GEUM/AVENS Geum hybrids 12/12 in. 30/30 cm orange

sun to shade 3 May to June
Compact plant with bright orange blooms; good for cut flowers

GLOBE FLOWER Trollius x cultorum hybrids 24-36/24 in. 60-90/60 cm orange, yellow
part shade 2 May to June
Large buttercup-like flowers on long stems; good cut flower, moist

GLOBE THISTLE Echinops ritro 36-48/24 in. 80-120/60 cm metallic blue

sun 2 June to Sept.
Tall thistle-like plant with large globe shaped blooms; good for cut flowers

GOATSBEARD-GIANT Aruncus dioicus Kneiffii 36/48 in. 90/120 cm cream

part shade 2 June to July
Large plants with wispy foliage and plumed flowers, moist

GOATSBEARD-DWARF KOREAN Aruncus aethusifolius 12/12 in. 30/30 cm white

part shade 2 June to July
Compact plant with lacy leaves and plumed flowers, moist

GOLDEN ROD Solidago species 36/12 in. 90/30 cm gold-yellow

sun to shade 2 June to July
Native wildflower cultivar; golden-yellow plumed flowers

HELIOPSIS-FALSE SUNFLOWER Heliopsis helianthoides 48/24 in. 120/60 cm yellow, green or variegated
sun 2 July to Sept.
Long blooming daisy-like flowers; good cut flower
33
 tip: In early May, start dividing crowded clumps of
perennials before they make a lot of new growth.

perennials
Name Botanical Name Height/Spread Flower Colour
Sun or Shade Zone Blooms
Comments

HELENIUM/SNEEZEWEED Helenium autumnale 48/24 in. 120/60 cm red, yellow

sun 3 July to Aug.
Bright daisy-like flowers; good for cutting

HENS AND CHICKS Sempervivum x hybrids 6/12 in. 15/30 cm pink, red
sun or part shade 2 June to Aug.
Succulent gray, blue, green, or purple evergreen leaves; stalks often have star shaped flowers

HOLLYHOCK Alcea rosea 5-7/1 ft. 1.2-2/.25 m various

sun 2 July to Aug.
Available in double and single varieties; biennial, blooms second season

HOSTA Hosta hybrids 8-24/12-24 in. 20-60/30-60 cm mauve, white

semi-sun to shade 3 June to Aug.
Many varieties, lily-like flowers, varying foliage, very attractive in shady areas, moist/well drained

IRIS Iris species 8-48/12-24 in. 20-120/30-60 cm various

sun 2 May to June
Many varieties, compact clumps of stems with narrow leaves; good cut flower, moist/well drained

JACOBS LADDER Polemonium caeruleum 18-36/12 in. 45-90/30 cm blue/white

sun to shade 2 May to July
Leaves form ladder-like pattern, green or variegated, delicate bell flowers

JAPANESE SPURGE Pachysandra terminalis 8/12 in. 20/30 cm white

shade 3 May
Evergreen foliage with small white flowers; tolerates shade; protect roots over winter, moist

JOE PYE WEED Eupatorium purpureum 7/3 ft. 2/1 m purple

sun to shade 4 Aug. to Sept.
Large late blooming plant; attracts butterflies, moist

KINNIKINNICK/BEARBERRY Arctostaphylos uva-ursi 6/6 in. 15/15 cm pink

sun to shade 2 May to June
Native evergreen ground cover; acid loving plant

LADYS MANTLE Alchemilla mollis 12/24 in. 30/60 cm green, yellow

sun or shade 2 June to July
Silver-green scalloped leaves form compact plant, with sprays of flowers; good cut flower

LAMBS EAR Stachys byzantina 12-18/12 in. 30-45/30 cm pink

sun to shade 3 June
Spreading mat of silver leaves; drought tolerant; good ground cover

LAMIUM-DEAD NETTLE Lamium maculatum 6-1212/12 in. 15-30/30 cm pink, white

part shade 2 May to Sept.
Leaves variegated with silver and white; good ground cover
34
 perennials
Name Botanical Name Height/Spread Flower Colour
Sun or Shade Zone Blooms
Comments

LAVENDER Lavandula angustifolia Munstead 16/24 in. 40/60 cm pink, purple

sun 4 June to Aug.
Flower spikes and foliage are fragrant; good cut flower

LEOPARDS BANE Doronicum cordatum 16/12 in. 40/30 cm yellow

sun or shade 2 May to June
Daisy-like flowers and heart shaped leaves; good cut flower, moist

LEWISIA Lewisia cotyledon 6-8/6 in. 15-20/15 cm pink

sun or shade 4 May to July
Succulent evergreen foliage; alpine plant requiring good drainage

LIATRUS-BLAZING STAR Liatrus spicata 18-36/18 in. 45-90/45 cm purple, white

sun 2 July to Sept.
Tall, long lasting flower spikes, grassy leaves; good cut flower

LIGULARIA Ligularia dentata Desdemona 3/4 ft./90/120 cm .2/- 2/3 ft.60/90 cm orange
part shade 4 June to July
Large round, purple foliage with tall daisy-like flowers flower spikes, moist

LIGULARIA Ligularia stenocephala The Rocket 4/6 ft 120-180 cm 2/3 ft 60-90 cm yellow
part shade 4 June to Aug.
Large, maple-shaped green leaves with purple-black stems, moist

LILY Lilium x hybrida 2-5/1 ft. 60-150/30 cm various

part shade 2 June to July
Many varieties of bell/star-shaped flowers, some fragrant; good cut flowers

LOBELIA Lobelia x hybrida 36/12 in. 90/30 cm red, blue

sun to shade 4 Aug. to Sept.
Sturdy spikes of red or green foliage with tender roots needing winter protection, moist

LOOSESTRIFE-GOOSENECK Lysimachia clethroides 36/36 in. 90/90 cm white

sun or shade 2 July to Aug.
Named for bent flower spikes; also known for colourful fall foliage, moist

LOOSESTRIFE-YELLOW Lysimachia punctata 36/24 in. 90/60 cm yellow

sun to shade 2 June to Aug.
Bushy mounds with star shaped flowers formed in leafy spikes

LUNGWORT Pulmonaria hybrids 10 /12 in. 25 /30 cm various

part shade 3 April to May
Low, silver spotted foliage with clusters of bi-coloured flowers; grown mostly for foliage, many varieties

LUPINE Lupinus hybrids 36/24 in. 90/60 cm various

sun or part shade 3 June to Aug.
Many varieties of tall spikes of flowers; good for cutting
35
perennials
Name Botanical Name Height/Spread Flower Colour
Sun or Shade Zone Blooms
Comments

MALLOW-MUSK Malva moschata 36/18 in. 90/45 cm pink

sun 3 July to Sept.
Satiny pink flowers with musky scented leaves

MALLOW-PRAIRIE/CHECKER Sidalcea x hybrids 36/18 in. 90/45 cm pink

sun or shade 4 June to Aug.
Long spikes of satiny flowers; good flower for cutting

MALTESE CROSS Lychnis chalcedonica 48/12 in. 120/30 cm red

sun 2 June to Aug.
Tall, hardy, long living plant with clusters of red flowers; good for cutting

MARGUERITE Anthemis sancti-johannis 18/36 in. 45/90 cm orange, yellow

sun 2 June to Aug.
Hardy, drought tolerant members of the daisy family; good cut flower

MARSH MARIGOLD Caltha palustris 12/12 in. 30/30 cm yellow

sun to shade 2 May
Buttercup shaped flowers, with heart-shaped leaves, moist

MASTERWORT Astrantia hybrids 12-24 /18 in. 30-60/45 cm pink, red, white
part shade 4 June to Aug.
Star shaped flowers on long stems; good cut flower, moist

MEADOW RUE Thalictrum aquilegifolium 36/24 in. 90/60 cm mauve

sun or shade 3 May to June
Leaves closely resemble columbine, with sprays of flowers; good cut flower, moist

MEADOW RUE-HEWITTS DOUBLE Thalictrum delavayi 60/24 in. 150/60 cm mauve

sun or shade 4 June to Aug.
Tall plant with lacy foliage and sprays of double flowers; good cut flower, moist

MEADOWSWEET Filipendula hybrids 1-6/4 ft. 30-120cm/120 cm white, pink

part shade 3 Aug. to Sept.
Attractive perennial, with ferny leaves and clusters of fluffy flowers, for shady, moist areas, moist

MONARDA/BEE BALM Monarda didyma hybrids 36/18 in. 90/45 cm pink, red, purple, white
sun 3 June to July
Tall plants with aromatic foliage and thistle-like flowers, moist

MONKSHOOD Aconitum napellus 54/24 in. 135/60 cm blue, pink

sun or shade 2 July to Aug.
Tall perennial with showy flower spikes; good cut flower, moist

MONKSHOOD Aconitum x cammarum Bicolor 48/24 in. 120/60 cm purple/white

sun or shade 3 July to Aug.
Tall, flower spikes; good cut flower, moist
36
 perennials
Name Botanical Name Height/Spread Flower Colour
Sun or Shade Zone Blooms
Comments

MOSS-IRISH/SCOTCH Sagina subulata 1/12 in. 2/30 cm white

sun 4 May to June
Creeping green/gold moss-like carpet, small star shaped flowers; good ground cover, moist/well drained

MUM-GARDEN Chrysanthemum morifolium x Morden 12/8 in. 30/20 cm bronze, yellow, pink, white
sun or shade 3 Aug. to Sept.
Hardier, fall flowering mum; good for cutting

OBEDIENT PLANT Physostegia virginiana 3-4-48/24 in. 40-/60 cm pink, white

sun to shade 2 July to Sept.
Large clumps form tubular flower spikes that hold shape when bent; good for cutting, invasive, moist

PAINTED DAISY/PYRETHRUM Chrysanthemum coccineum 30/18 in. 75/45 cm pink, rose

sun 2 June to July
Large daisy-like flowers on tall stems, fern-like foliage; good cut flower

PASQUE FLOWER Pulsatilla vulgaris 12/12 in. 30/30 cm purple, red, white
sun to shade 2 April to May
Early bloomer with a flower much like a prairie crocus

PEARLY EVERLASTING Anaphalis margaritacea 12-36/12 in. 30-90/30 cm white

sun 2 July to Sept.
Drought tolerant wildflower with grey leaves and button flowers; good for cutting fresh or drying

BEARD-TONGUE Penstemon hybrids 36/24 in. 90/60 cm various

sun 4 May to Aug.
Many varieties with tubular flower spikes; good cut flower

PEONY-DOUBLE Paeonia lactiflora hybrids 36/36 in. 90/90 cm pink, red, white
sun 2 June
Large flower on delicate stem; may require support

PEONY-FERNLEAF Paeonia tenuifolia 12-18/12-18 in. 23-45/30-45 cm red

sun 2 June
Single or double flowers, with fine wispy foliage

PEONY-TREE Paeonia suffruiticosa 60/36 in 150-90 cm mostly red

sun 4 June
Woody shrub with double or single flowers, requires winter protection similar to that of a tea rose

PHLOX Phlox hybrids 4-48/12-30 in. 10-120/30-75 cm various

sun to shade 3 June to Sept.
Low growing and tall foliage, prolific, fragrant flowers; good for cutting, moist/well drained

PINCUSHION FLOWER Scabiosa columbaria 12-18/18 in. 75/45 cm lavender blue

sun 2 June to Aug.
Long-blooming, flat, flowers, with dark green foliage, alpine
37
 tip: If you grow perennials or flowering shrubs,
you may want to ask whether they need dead-
heading or dis-budding. Finding out may reward
you with a lot more flowers than you expected.

perennials
Name Botanical Name Height/Spread Flower Colour
Sun or Shade Zone Blooms
Comments

POPPY Papaver hybrids 8-40 /4-24 in. 20-100/8-60 cm various

sun to shade 3 May to Aug.
Large variety of types, sizes and colours; many uses

POTENTILLA Potentilla hybrids 4-12/12 in. 10-30/30 cm various

sun 3 May to Sept.
Long blooming rose-shaped flowers, good in rockeries

PRIMULA Primula species 6-24/8-12 in. 15-60/20-30 cm various

part shade 3 April to May
Many varieties, colours and shapes of flowers for spring color in shady areas, moist

PUSSY TOES Antennaria dioica 6/12 in. 15/30 cm pink

sun 1 May to June
Forms dense, drought tolerant carpet of silvery foliage

RHUBARB Rheum rhaponticum 3/3 ft. 1/1 m white

sun 2 May to Sept.
Hardy perennial vegetable with large leaves; edible stalks used as a fruit

ROCKCRESS Aubrieta hybrids 6/24 in. 15/60 cm pink, purple, red

4 May to June
Cascading grey-green foliage; good for sunny rock gardens and embankments

ROCK ROSE Helianthemum nummularium 4-12/10-24 in. 30/60 cm various

sun 4 June to Sept.
Small rose-like flowers, available in both single and double varieties

RODGERSIA Rodgersia pinnata 4/3 ft. 120/90 cm pink, white

part shade 4 July
Large bronzy-purple leaves with wispy flower plumes, grown mostly for foliage, moist

RUDBECKIA Rudbeckia x hybrids 3-6/1.5-3 ft. 90-200/45-90 cm orange, yellow

sun 2 July to Sept.
Many varieties of large, daisy-like plants with brown or black centers; good cut flower

RUSSIAN SAGE Perovskia atriplicifolia 4/2 ft. 120/60 cm blue

sun 4 July to Sept.
Tall spikes of blue flowers with grey-green foliage; adds fall color and texture to a garden, drought tolerant

SALVIA Salvia nemorosa hybrids 24/24 in. 60/60 cm indigo, violet

sun 3 May to July
Many varieties with colorful spikes of flowers and scented gray/green foliage

SAXIFRAGE Saxifraga hybrids 6-24/8-12 in. 15-60/20-30 cm various

sun 3 May to June
Several varieties of low growing alpine plants with starry flowers; good for rock gardens
38
 perennials
Name Botanical Name Height/Spread Flower Colour
Sun or Shade Zone Blooms
Comments

SEA HOLLY Eryngium hybrids 24/12 in. 60/30 cm blue

sun 2 June to Aug.
Prickly, metallic blue flowers; good for cutting; drought tolerant

STONECROP/SEDUM Sedum hybrids 6-24/18-24 in. 15-60/45-60 cm various

sun 3 Aug. to Sept.
Many varieties of spreading, flowering succulents; some for ground cover, others taller; drought tolerant

SHASTA DAISY Leucanthemum maximum 24/18 in. 60/45 cm white

sun to shade 4 June to Sept.
White daisies with yellow eyes; good cut flowers, vigorous grower

SHOOTING STAR Dodecatheon meadia 12/6 in. 30/15 cm pink

part shade 2 May to June
Delicate, cyclamen-shaped flowers from flat rosettes of leaves

SILENE-MOSS CAMPION Silene acaulis 1/12 in. 2.5/30 cm pink

sun 2 June-Aug.
Very low ground cover for well drained soil, tiny flowers

SILVER BROCADE Artemisia stelleriana 12/30 in. 30/75 cm silver foliage

sun 2 n/a
Low growing silver leaves, excellent for edging or as ground cover

SILVER KING Artemisia ludoviciana 36/30 in. 90/75 cm silver foliage

sun 2 n/a
Aromatic silver foliage, drought tolerant

SILVER MOUND Artemisia schmidtiana 12/18 in. 30/45 cm silver foliage

sun 1 n/a
Fine silver feathery foliage forms a compact mound

SNOWDROP Anemone sylvestris 18/24 in. 45/60 cm white

sun or shade 2 May to June
Spreading ground cover with large flowers

SNOW IN SUMMER Cerastium tomentosum 12/24 in. 30/60 cm white

sun 2 May to June
Delicate flowers with gray foliage; spreading growth habit; good ground cover

SNOW ON THE MOUNTAIN Aegopodium podagraria Variegatum 12/24 in 30/60 cm green/white

shade 1 July to Aug.
Vigourous grower with variegated foliage and spreading growth habit; good ground cover, invasive

SOAPWORT Saponaria ocymoides 8/18 in. 20/45 cm pink

sun 2 May to June
Vigorous trailing plant; good for cascade in rock gardens
39
 tip: Mulching around your plants will help to
control weeds, and also help to keep perennial
roots cool and moist.

perennials
Name Botanical Name Height/Spread Flower Colour
Sun or Shade Zone Blooms
Comments

SOLOMONS SEAL Polygonatum odoratum 24/12 in. 60/30 cm white

shade 3 May to June
Delicate bell flowers on slender stems, moist

SPEEDWELL Veronica hybrids 10-24/12-18 in. 2-60/30-45 cm various

sun or shade 2 June to Aug.
Many varieties of tall or low growing plants with spiked flowers; some good for ground cover

SPIDERWORT Tradescantia andersoniana 24/24 in. 60/60 cm various

sun or shade 3 June to Aug.
Triangular flowers on grassy foliage, moist

CUSHION SPURGE Euphorbia polychroma 18/18 in. 45/45 cm yellow

sun 3 May to June
Foliage forms a dome covered in yellow flowers; drought tolerant

STATICE-GERMAN Goniolimon tataricum 16/12 in. 40/30 cm white

sun 3 July to Aug.
Prickly white, globe-shaped flowers, good for cutting or drying, drought tolerant

STATICE-SEA LAVENDER Limonium latifolium 30/24 in. 75/60 cm lavender

sun 2 June to Aug.
Dainty blue flowers, good for cutting or drying, drought tolerant

STRAWBERRY Fragaria bybrids 10/12 in. 25/30 cm white, pink

sun or shade 2 May to Aug.
White or pink flowering plants, trailing growth habit; good ground cover or hanging basket, edible fruit

SUNFLOWER - FALSE Heliopsis helianthoides 4/2 ft. 120/60 cm yellow

sun 4 Aug. to Sept.
Tall plant with large daisy-like flowers, moist

SWEET PEA-PERENNIAL Lathyrus latifolius 8/1 ft. 240/30 cm various

sun 3 June to Sept.
Vigorously flowering, climbing vine; good for cutting

SWEET ROCKET Hesperis matronalis 36/12 in. 90/30 cm purple, white

sun or shade 2 June to July
Fragrant flowers on long stems

SWEET WILLIAM Dianthus barbatus 24/12 in. 60/30 cm pink, red, white
sun 2 June to Aug.
Biennial plant with fragrant flowers; good for cutting

SWEET WOODRUFF Galium odoratum 4-8/24 in. 10-20/60 cm white

part shade 3 May to July
Speading plant with clusters of fragrant, starry white flowers; good ground cover, moist
40
 perennials
Name Botanical Name Height/Spread Flower Colour
Sun or Shade Zone Blooms
Comments

THYME Thymus hybrids 1-6/12 in. 2-15/30 cm various

sun 3 June to July
Varieties of low growing plants with various colours of scented foliage, pink or white flowers; good ground cover

TICKSEED Coreopsis verticillata 12-30/12 in. 30-75/30 cm gold, yellow

sun 4 June to Sept.
Bright daisy-like flowers in many varieties; good cut flower

VINCA/PERIWINKLE Vinca minor 6/18 in. 15/45 cm blue, violet, white

part shade 4 May to Sept.
Low growing evergreen plant, glossy green or variegated leaves; needs winter protection; good ground cover

VIOLA Viola hybrids 4-8/12 in. 10-20/30 cm various

part sun or shade 4 May to Sept.
Perennial pansies; varieties of sun & shade tolerant plants; needs winter protection

WALLCRESS Arabis hybrids 8/24 in. 20/60 cm red, pink

sun 3 May to June
Cascading spring flowering plant; forms a dense ground-cover

WINTERGREEN Gaultheria procumbens 6/12 in. 15/30 cm pink

part shade 4 July to Aug.
Fragrant leaves with pink flowers, edible red berries; good ground cover, moist

YARROW Achillea hybrids 8-48/12-24 in. 20-120/30-60 cm various

sun 2 June to Sept.
Many varieties with ferny leaves and clusters of small delicate flowers; good for cutting or drying

YUCCA/SOAPWEED Yucca glauca 24/18 in. 60/45 cm white

sun 3 July
Succulent plant with stiff, narrow, grassy leaves; drought tolerant

Calgary Horticultural Society member garden

41
 tip: Place supports in positions around perennials
that require staking. If the supports are put in
position early, the plants will grow through them
and hide them.

perennials
Name Botanical Name Height/Spread Flower Colour
Sun or Shade Zone Blooms
Comments

perennial vines
AMERICAN BITTERSWEET Celastrus scandens 7/3 ft. 2/1 m white
sun to part shade 4
If flower pollination occurs red seed pods are produced

CLEMATIS Clematis varieties 10/3 ft. 3/1 m various

sun to part shade 3
Many varieties of brightly coloured flowers; prune according to pruning group

ENGLEMAN IVY 20/3 ft. 6/1 m

Parthenocissus quinquefolia Englemanii white
sun to part shade 3
Clings to rough surfaces; white flowers followed by colourful red foliage

GRAPE Vitus varieties 7/3 ft. 2/1 m white

sun to part shade 4
Several varieties of hardy grapes; good for juice or jellies

HONEYSUCKLE Lonicera x varieties 10-20/3-6 ft. 3-6/1-2 m orange, red

sun to part shade 2
Sweetly fragrant, woody vine with small tubular flowers

HOPS Humulus lupulus 7/7 ft. 2/2 m green

sun to part shade 2
Fast growing with small green flower buds

VIRGINIA CREEPER Parthenocissus quinquefolia 20/3 ft. 6/1 m white

sun to part shade 3
Five part leaves, climbs a trellis; small white flowers are followed by attractive red fall foliage

Calgary Horticultural Society member garden

42
 perennial tips

gardeners secrets - perennials Feeding Tips

Placement & Planting Tips
Space correctly, do not over crowed plants check
plant labels or gardensense charts for correct spacing.
Plant in a sunny area for sun and a shady area for
shade.
Stop using fertilizer around August 1 to prepare the
plants for their winter dormancy.
Slow-release fertilizer with a 3-4 month release rate is
recommended. Plant-Prod Smart Cote Feed & Forget -
Perennial 12-12-12 is a excellent option, when applied
applied in May it should last the entire growing season.

Prepare soil properly, adding Zeolite, for clay breakdown
and aeration, and compost for nutrition.
Remove peat pots since they do not degrade well with
Calgarys short, dry summers.
Maintenance Tips
Top-dress a minimum 7-10mm of topdressing, use Sea
Soil in the fall. Topdressing will enhance soil
quality and help to conserve water.

Watering Tips
Water regularly until established, 2-3 years. Once
established perennial plants should be able to sustain
themselves.

tip: When should you cut back your perennials?

Early spring is an appropriate time to cut back
perennials as the dead foliage acts as protection from
the winter elements. However, if you have diseased
foliage on your plants it should be removed prior to
winter and the lost cover replaced by mulch, this will
reduce the chances of over wintering any problems
you may have experienced in the previous year.

43
 herbs

gardeners secrets - herbs

Pot herbs in Sea Soil. Slower growing herbs have more flavour.

Outdoor herbs will be healthier. Try not to grow herbs inside due to dry air conditions.

Basil should not be put outside until all threat of frost has passed due to its extremely delicate nature.

45
 tip: Regularly harvesting herbs keeps them
producing more. You can freeze herbs as well as dry
them. For more information ask a greengate expert.

herbs Name Botanical Name Annual, Biennial, Perennial

Indoor/Outdoor Seed Date Days until harvest
Sun or shade
Available as

ANISE Pimpinella anisum Annual sun

na/May 15-30 70-75 seed/plant

BASIL Ocimum basilicum Annual sun

n/a/May 15-30 80-85 seed/plant

BAY/LAUREL Laurus nobilis Shrub, indoors for winter sun to part shade
n/a n/a plant

BEEBALM Monarda didyma Perennial sun or part shade

n/a/May 1-15 90-120 plant

BORAGE Borago officinalis Annual sun

n/a/May 15-30 80-85 seed/plant

CARAWAY Carum carvi Biennial sun/part shade

n/a/May 15-30 harvest seeds 2nd year seed/plant

CATMINT/CATNIP Nepeta cataria Perennial sun or part shade

n/a/May 10-20 75-80 seed/plant

CHAMOMILE Matricaria recutita Annual sun to part shade

n/a/May 10-20 20-30 seed/plant

CHERVIL Anthriscus cerefolium Annual shade to part shade

n/a/May 15-30 70-80 seed/plant

CHIVES Allium schoenoprasum Perennial sun

n/a/May 15-30 80- 90 seed/plant

CHIVES-GARLIC Allium tuberosum Perennial sun

n/a/May 15-30 85-90 seed/plant

CILANTRO/CORIANDER Coriandrum sativum Annual sun/part shade

n/a/May 10-20/ 20- 90 seed/plant

46
 herbs Name Botanical Name Annual, Biennial, Perennial
Indoor/Outdoor Seed Date Days until harvest
Sun or shade
Available as

DILL Anethum graveolens Annual sun

n/a/May 15-30 90 seed/plant

ECHINACEA Echinacea angustifolia Perennial sun

Apr. 1-15/n/a 120 plant

FENNEL Foeniculum vulgare Annual sun

n/a/June 1-10 80-90 seed/plant

FENUGREEK Trigonella foenum Annual sun

n/a/May 10-20 90-120 seed/plant

GARLIC Allium sativum Annual sun/ part shade

n/a/May 1-15 100-120 bulb/plant

HORSERADISH Armoracia rusticana Perennial sun

n/a/May 1-15 100-120 bulb/plant

HYSSOP Hyssopus officinalis Perennial sun

n/a May 10-30/ 30-60 seed/plant

LAVENDER-ENGLISH Lavandula angustifolia Perennial sun

Mar. 1-10/n/a 100-120 seed/plant

LEMON BALM Melissa officinalis Perennial sun to part shade

Apr. 10-20/n/a 90-100 seed/plant

LOVAGE Levisticum officinale Perennial sun to part shade

Apr. 1-15/June 1-10 harvest leaves as needed seed/plant

MARJORAM-SWEET Origanum majorana Annual sun

Apr. 10-20/n/a 90 seed/plant

47
herbs Name Botanical Name Annual, Biennial, Perennial
Indoor/Outdoor Seed Date Days until harvest
Sun or shade
Available as

MINT/PEPPERMINT Mentha x piperita Perennial part shade

Apr. 1-10/n/a 90 seed/plant

MINT/SPEARMINT Mentha spicata Perennial part shade

Apr. 1-10/n/a 90 seed/plant

OREGANO Origanum vulgare Perennial sun

Apr. 10-20/n/a 80-90 seed/plant

PARSLEY-CURLED Petroselinum crispum Annual part shade

Apr. 15/May 30 90 seed/plant

PARSLEY-ITALIAN Petroselinum neopolitanum Annual part shade

Apr. 1-15/May 15-30 90 seed/plant

ROSEMARY Rosemarinus officinalis Perennial, indoors in winter sun

Feb. 1-15/May 10-20 125 seed/plant

SAGE Salvia officinalis Perennial sun

Apr. 10-20/n/a 80-85 seed/plant

SAVORY-SUMMER Satureja hortensis Annual sun

n/a/May 10-20 60-65 seed/plant

SAVORY-WINTER Satureja montana Perennial sun

n/a/May 10-20 60-65 plant

SORREL-FRENCH Rumex acetosa Perennial sun or part shade

n/a/May 15-30 60 seed/plant

STEVIA Stevia rebaudiana Annual sun to part shade

n/a 60-80 plant

TARRAGON-FRENCH Artemesia dranunculus sativa Perennial sun or part shade

April 1-10/n/a 110 seed

48
 herbs Name Botanical Name Annual, Biennial, Perennial
Indoor/Outdoor Seed Date Days until harvest
Sun or shade
Available as

THYME-ENGLISH Thymus vulgaris Perennial sun or part shade

Apr. 1-10/n/a 85-90 seed/plant

THYME-LEMON Thymus citriodorus Perennial sun

Apr. 1-10/n/a 85-90 seed/plant

VERBENA-LEMON Aloysia citrodora Annual sun

April 1-10/n/a n/a plant

repelling deer from your garden

Deer will eat practically anything in your garden! Once you accept that, you realize that there is no point in planting tulips where deer
can reach them they think of them as desert, planted especially for them. Junipers and cedars are a winter delicacy because they
need the moisture and nutrients during a time when healthy food is scarce. Here are some ideas to repel them:
scatter soap chips around bulbs and flowers, or tie in onion bags or the toes of nylon stockings to trees and shrubs at deer
nose height, or tie to the tops of stakes in a vegetable garden. Deer dont like the smell of soap, so use smelly stuff.
add a decorative top layer to a fence they cant jump, tilting outward
deer repellant liquids that taste terrible to deer can be painted or sprayed on tree trunks. Some can be sprayed on plants
as well read labels carefully. They must be repeated periodically and after rain.
urine of predator animals can be effective, will need to replaced periodically and after rain.
Here is a list of plants said to be not eaten by deer (no guarantee!)

Annuals tithonia gaillardia salvia squash

ageratum verbena gas plant sea holly tomato
alyssum wax begonia heliopsis sedum turnip
aster zinnia hesperis silver mound zucchini
bachelor button iris speedwell
basil Perennials ladys mantle veronica Shrubs and Trees
borage ajuga lambs ears yarrow ash
calendula allium lamium barberry
caraway artemisia lavender Bulbs birch
chamomile armeria (sea thrift) liatris allium buffaloberry
cosmos aster lily anemone caragana
dill babys breath lily of the valley daffodil clematis
geranium black eyed Susan lungwort gladiola cotoneaster
gomphrena bleeding heart lupine currant
hollyhock (annual) bellflower ligularia Vegetables daphne
licorice vine cactus lychnis bean dogwood
impatiens chives mint beet elderberry, red
lotus vine columbine monarda carrot lilac
marigold corn flower monkshood chives Manitoba maple
nasturtium coral bells mullien corn mugo pine
nigella coreopsis nepeta cucumber nanking cherry
petunia cranesbill poppy currant pear
portulaca day lily penstemon garlic potentilla
salpiglossis delphinium peony leek rose (rugosa)
salvia (annual) scabiosa dusty miller phlox onion Russian olive
snapdragon ferns rose campion potato spirea
sunflower flax Russian sage rhubarb spruce
stocks forget-me-not sage spinach
49
 tubers & rhizomes
The first plants to bloom in the spring, one of
the last plants to bloom in the summer, and everything
in between, come from what gardeners commonly call
bulbs. Many bulbous plants are commonly referred to as
bulbs. Lilies and hyacinths are true bulbs, but there are
several other classifications of bulbous plants.
are clusters of roots. Tuberous roots can be divided by
removing a root section containing a bud and replanting.
Dahlias are a good example of a tuberous root.
rhizomes
Rhizomes grow at or below the soils surface. These
stems increase in length, with new growth appearing
along the length of the stem. Rhizomes can be divided
by cutting off sections of the stem that contain growing
buds and replanting. Irises are well-known rhizomes.

planting
Make sure that the area to be planted is well drained.
Bulbous stems and roots that are kept too moist tend to
rot. Bulbous plants will do well in almost any part of the
yard and are not restricted to flower beds. They can
also be successfully planted in lawns or in some cases
under trees.

bulbs Plant bulbous stems and roots according to the planting

directions provided with the plant or at a depth three
A true bulb, such as a lily, is a short underground stem
times the maximum diameter of the stem or root. This
surrounded by thick leaves that protect the plant and
can be done using a garden trowel or a bulb planter,
store food for use by the emerging plant. New bulbs, or
which removes plugs of soil for easier planting. Sprinkle
bulblets, are formed at the base of mature bulbs after
about a teaspoon of bone meal into the bottom of the
flowering is complete. Mature bulbs then become
hole and coat the stem and/or root with bulb dust to
dormant until the next season. Flowering alliums, which
prevent fungus and place in hole. Fill in hole and water
are members of the onion family, tulips, daffodils and
in well. Irises are planted with the top of the rhizome at
hyacinths, are also bulbs.
ground level.
corms
Corms are thick underground stems covered by
protective leaves. These stems produce stems, leaves
and flowers during one season. Individual corms last
only one season, but new corms, or cormels, are formed
on top of the old corms as they complete their growth
cycle. These can be collected and stored for future
planting. Gladiolas and crocuses are corms.

tuber and tuberous roots

A tuber is like a corm, but can last for many years.
Tubers can be divided by removing a section containing
a bud, as would appear on a potato. Tuberous begonias
are, of course, tubers. Tuberous roots are similar to
tubers, but instead of a single stem, like a tuber, these

51
tip: If you have large clumps of irises, day lilies,
hostas, or any other perennials, you may want to
divide them and start new garden areas, or offer
them in the CHS plant swap - you never know what
you might get in return!

Bulbs can be arranged in groups or naturalized, which leaves have fallen, gently dig up the plant and separate
means scattering the bulbous stems and roots randomly the roots of the individual clumps to be removed.
on the ground and planting them where they land. Replant the removed plants in an appropriate place in
the garden. Summer flowering perennials should be
maintenance
divided in the same way in the spring, as soon as they
Very little needs to be done to maintain bulbous plants
are showing growth.
during the growing season. However, the spent blooms
should be deadheaded. This is done so that the plants forcing
do not waste valuable energy they will need during their
Hardy bulbous plants that grow outdoors can be forced
dormancy, in order to survive, by going to seed. Tender
to bloom in the winter. Plant the bulbous stem or root in
bulbous plants can be mulched or, in the case of
a well-drained pot. Plant the stem or root so that half is
summer bulbous plants, brought indoors and stored for
buried in potting soil with the other half exposed, water
the winter.
well. Store the plant in a cool, 5 C, dark place for 8-12 weeks.
storage This will give the plant the dormancy it needs to begin
After the first light frost, cut off the tops of your the flowering process out of season. After the dormant
summer flowering bulbous plants. The stems or roots period, remove the plants from storage and place in a
should be dug up and laid out in the sun or a warm place sunny location. Hyacinths may be grown in water and
indoors for an afternoon to dry out. Store in a cool, dark there are many containers available for this purpose.
place, about 5C, in a paper bag or box filled with
vermiculite. These bulbous plants can be removed from
storage and replanted in the spring. Firm bulbs can be
replanted but soft or dry bulbs should not be replanted.
division
If the flower quality and quantity drops in your bulbous
plants, this may be a sign of overcrowding, and they
may need dividing. Some may have simply outgrown
the place they are in or other plants may be encroaching
on their area. Many bulbous plants form clumps of
stems. These stems are actually individual plants with
their own root systems. Some plants cannot be divided
since they grow from one central stalk. Spring blooming
plants should be divided in early fall. When all the

gardeners secrets - tubers, rhizomes, and bulbs

Well drained soil is best for planting.

Bone meal should be added when planting for extra nutrients. GroundsKeepers Pride
produces an excellent bone meal.

52
 container gardening

Calgary Horticultural Society member garden

Anything that will grow in the ground can containers

be planted in a container, and almost any container can
be used for planting. Because of this, the variations and
uses for this popular form of gardening are endless.
Apartment balconies, condominiums and houses with
small yards can all make good use of the space saving
convenience and summer colour of container gardening.
Many larger yards have paved or drab areas that would
benefit from greenery or flowering plants. Every yard is
different; every gardener has his or her own idea of the
perfect yard. Experimenting with planting in containers
can be very rewarding for every level of gardener.
Remember, no plants are likely to survive the winter in
Calgary in containers. If you are not sure, ask, we will
be happy to help.
Almost any container with adequate drainage can be
used for container gardening. Drainage holes are very
important to ensure that the plant roots do not sit in
water and rot. Most containers come with drainage
holes; those that do not should be modified to include
them if possible. Large pots and containers without
proper drainage would benefit greatly from a layer of
course gravel as the bottom layer of the growing
medium. Raising the container off the ground can
further increase drainage. Wooden blocks, a drip tray,
or some other means of allowing better air and water
circulation can be added under most containers.
Ensure that the plant size and pot size are compatible.
Plants that will become large need containers large
enough to allow free root growth and ensure that
the plant does not become root bound.

gardeners secrets - container gardening

Water and fertilize containers generously, more so during hot/dry periods.

Fertilize using a controlled release fertilizer like Plant-Prod Smart Cote - Hanging Basket 14-14-14

Apply a general slow-release fertilizer to containers; applied as a surface dressing in spring it

53 should last plants in containers the whole growing season.
 soil-less potting soil
Soil-less potting mix is usually peat-based. These
mixtures also contain vermiculite and/or perlite. They
are very light, so they are good for hanging baskets.
They dry out more quickly, and need consistent
checking for soil moisture. Soil-less mixes contain little
or no fertilizer, so a regular application is necessary,
according to the label of the fertilizer.

maintenance
Plants grown in containers may need regular
fertilization and watering due to the lack of soil available
to meet its nutrition and moisture retention needs.
Withered flowers should be removed (deadheaded) to
encourage further flower growth.
A container holding a root bound plant will not be able to
hold water and nutrients for an extended period of time
and may require constant watering.

Hanging baskets, window boxes, metal urns, wooden

barrels and more can be used in a large variety of
situations with an endless variety of plants and
locations. Greengate has a large selection of containers
for all your gardening needs.

growing medium
Soil from your garden is not particularly suited for
container gardening. Its high clay content and heavy
consistency do not allow adequate drainage. The most
desirable growing medium is a potting mix. Potting mix
comes in two forms, soil-based and soil-less. Both of
the forms have their advantages and disadvantages.

soil-based potting soil

This soil is sterilized to destroy the weeds, disease and
pests it could contain. The medium has good drainage,
and holds water and nutrients very well. Its heavier
consistency makes it ideal for larger plants that need
extra support and containers that would benefit from
the stability that extra weight would provide. Slow
release fertilizer can be added to soil-based mediums.

Calgary Horticultural Society member garden 54

 fruits & vegetables
A vegetable garden is fun, and a nutritious way to
utilize space in your garden. The rewards that come
from a leisure summer of gardening can be great.
Vegetables come in both seed and seedling form. The
instructions for the general planting of vegetables can
be found in the Seeds and Seedlings section (pg. 9).
Instructions for specific plants are included in the
packaging of both seeds and seedlings. Plants with
special requirements are noted in this section.
asparagus
Asparagus is one of the few perennial vegetables; it can
last up to twenty years with minimal care. It should be
planted in an out of the way spot, since it is semi-
permanent, takes up a lot of space, and grows up to 6 ft.
(2 m) tall. A spot near a fence with plenty of space for
further growth, facing the sun, is ideal.
Asparagus is sold as roots. The first season is spent
developing their root systems. Asparagus is ready to
harvest the second season after planting. Plant asparagus
in trenches, approximately 1 ft. (30 cm) wide and 10 in.
(25 cm) deep, with the crowns 6 in. (15 cm) below the
surface and spaced 1 ft. (30 cm) apart within the trench.
The root should be covered with a thin layer of soil at the
bottom of the trench. As plants grow, fill in the trench,
making sure not to cover the stem tips. Asparagus is a
heavy feeder. Be sure to water and fertilize adequately.
Harvest mature stems when they are about 1in.
(2cm) in thickness. The plants first harvest should last
four to six weeks. Stop harvesting when thin stalks
55
appear, indicating plant exhaustion. Harvest length
will increase as the plants mature. In the fall plants
should be cut back to the ground and mulched for
winter protection. Mulch should be removed in the
spring when weather allows.
beans
Although some varieties are frost tolerant, most beans
are not, and should be planted outdoors when the soil is
warm and the days are consistently above 13 C. There
are two general types of beans, bush beans and pole
beans. Bush beans mature more quickly than pole
beans, about 50 days. Bush beans grow to a specific
size, depending on variety, stop growing and then
begin producing. Pole beans take 60-70 days to reach
maturity, and require support. A trellis or stout pole is
traditionally used to support these bean vines. Harvest
beans when they are firm and brightly coloured.
Frequent harvest will promote further production.
broccoli
Due to its length of time to maturity, broccoli is best
started indoors from seed or bought as seedlings. Start
March 15-30 indoors; transplant seedlings outside
when the danger of frost has passed. Broccoli is a
heavy feeder and will require ample water and nutrition
throughout the growing season.
Plants will be ready for harvest after about 75 days
outdoors. Harvest the central stalk before flowering
occurs, during a cool evening or morning. This will
cause the plants side shoots to produce heads. Frequent
harvest will enable production until frost.

When do plants help each other? Companion
Planting - Plants get along with one another in many
ways. Sometimes two different plants do well together;
sometimes they do not get along. In other instances
plants actually help each other grow. In the vegetable
garden, it is common practice to grow carrots and peas
together as they seem to do better. Tomatoes like
parsley and onions.
Some plants do no like to be too close together and will
stop growing if they are planted with each other. Gardeners
soon learned that planting certain plants together
helped both plants and eliminated many insect problems.
Grouping plants that benefit each other together is
known as companion planting. Plants with strong
smells, such as herbs and certain flowers, can keep
insects away so they will not harm the rest of the
plants in the garden. If a plant has a scent that is
attractive it can attract harmful bugs so it will need a
companion plant.
The rose is a good example of a beautiful plant that needs
good strong companions. This is because aphids attack
rose buds every year and can actually suck the juices
out of the bud before it can open. You can plant masses
of Marigolds. Plant around the rose garden to help in the
battle against the aphids. They may not keep all the
aphids away, but they will help, and do it naturally.
companion planting
did you know?
Potatoes keep Flea beetles away from beans.
Marigolds chase Colorado potato beetles away from
potatoes. The roots of Marigold give off a substance
which drives away the eel-worm so they are good to
plant near Potatoes.
Radishes planted among the cucumbers discourage
cucumber beetles.
Garlic keeps aphids away from the garden.
Rosemary, sage and thyme planted among the cabbage
plants repel the cabbage worm.
Companion Planting shows that some plants are helpful
to each other. They can aid growth and overall vigour.
As well as deterring pests or attracting the good insects
such as Bees, Butterflies and Birds.
did you know?
Nitrogen-fixing plants of the Legume family (Peas &
Beans) supply Nitrogen to other plants.
Some plants have shapes that can confuse the insects
ability to recognize it as edible.
Some plants are better that others at attracting
pollinator insects, or insects which kill pests, or birds or
insects which eat seeds and spread them.
Some stimulate each others growth by physical and
energetic means. For instance, Tomatoes & Marigolds
like each other.
Chamomile encourages other plants to increase their
essential oils so that they taste and smell stronger.
56
 vegetable g
ardening

Vegetables that provide Vertical Interest.
Now that many gardeners have smaller gardens,
whether it is because of lack of space or not enough
time to tend a larger one. If you are one of these, or if
you just want to try something novel, try planting
vegetables vertically.
Growing vegetables upright not only saves space, but
makes harvesting easier. You do not have to bend over to
cut fruit from the vines. This could be quite advantageous
for older gardeners or some with back problems.
Upright vegetables can also add architectural interest.
The vegetable garden ceases to be utilitarian, and
becomes decorative. Vegetables can also be grown on
fences to hide chain link, or to screen undesirable views.
Pole beans such as Kentucky Wonder will climb up just
about anything, even other plants. Native Indians used
these in their traditional three sisters plantings of
beans, corn, and pumpkins. The corn stalks provided
support for the beans, and the pumpkins (try a squash
such as the Sunburst hybrid) provided a ground cover
or living mulch below. Just make sure if using this
method to give the corn (try the Canadian Early
Supersweet) a head start, or the fast-growing beans
wont have anything to climb!
using string as it can cut into stems. Use a soft rope or
cord such as cotton clothesline.
Cucumbers (English Long Telegraph or Straight) prefer
to be grown up a trellis or obelisk. Make sure the
structure is quite strong, to support the weight of the
vines. Cucumbers have shallow roots and dislike root
disturbance so place the structures and then plant.
Peas of course are a favorite, upright crop suitable for
the vertical garden. Choose the edible-pod or snow peas
because they produce longer vines. The Tall Telegraph
Pea or Laxtons Progress are two other varieties that do
well in our area and climb about six feet.
Plants not often associated with climbing are Tomatoes.
Suitable varieties are the ones that have stems that
keep on growing. They are known as in-determinate
varieties (check the description for this feature - see
page 59-60), they perform better grown upright than
falling over on the ground. You will need a sturdy stake
for them, and tie them to it at intervals with soft twine.
There are also many types of sturdy wire or metal
supports you can buy to support tomatoes.

Pole beans can also be grown on obelisks, trellises, or

over an arbor. The Scarlet Runner pole bean has attractive
red flowers. Pole beans dont just add a vertical accent,
but they keep producing longer than bush beans. They
continue to grow, flower, and fruit as long as you keep
picking the pods.

Gourds and winter squash are from the same family

and can grow very long vines. Both can take all season
to mature, so it is better to give these plants a head
start indoors in peat pots that can then be planted out.
The heavy fruit of winter squash, such as Butternut or
Spaghetti, should be individually supported by nets
tip: If you are using bamboo stakes for supports
make sure and purchase cane toppers. These can
(strips of used panty hose can work too). Tie them to be plastic or ceramic, sometimes they are just a ball
the trellis or fence on which the vines are trained. Avoid or a decorative structure. They do not just add
decoration, but also protect your eyes when working
around the staked plants.

57
tip: Why grow only flowers in a pot when you
could grow vegetables? Consider the possibilities:
lettuce, radishes, green onions, carrots and even
cherry tomatoes. Use pots 12 to 14 inch or so
in diameter for your garden plot at least 8 inches
deep. Fill them with a good all-purpose potting
mix. You can direct seed the lettuce, radishes
and carrots. Try various vegetables in different
containers like cucumbers, small tomatoes and
surround them with bulbs of onions for wonderful
green onions.

celery sheltered area when the danger of frost has passed.

Due to its great length of time to maturity, 100 days Allow the soil to dry a little between deep, regular
from seeding, celery is started indoors around April 1-15 watering, but remember that they are as susceptible to
or bought as seedlings. Celery is not easily grown and blossom end rot as tomatoes are. Peppers will be ready
needs steady watering and nutrition. for harvest after 60-90 days, when the peppers are full
and firm.
Seedlings should be hardened off and planted outdoors
when all danger of frost has passed. The traditional potatoes
way to plant celery is trenching. Dig a trench 12-15 in.
(30-40 cm) wide and 10 in. (25 cm) deep, and plant the
seedlings at the bottom. Soil is then heaped around the
stems as they grow. Trenching serves to retain moisture
and will help to blanche the celery stems. Blanching is
protecting the young stems from the sun, thus keeping
them white and tender.

Self-blanching and tender green varieties are now

available; this reduces the need for trenching. These
varieties may be planted as normal seedlings in rows.
They may however, also be trenched. Although not
necessary for these varieties, trenching will offer
beneficial water retention, frost protection, and will
eliminate much of the weeding. Regardless of the
method you choose, celery requires a steady amount
of water and nutrients through out the growing season.
peppers
Potatoes need a lot of space to grow. There are three
classes of potato, early, late and mid-season. Early potatoes
are grown for summer harvest and use. Late potatoes are
grown for fall harvest and storage. Mid-season varieties
combine the two with a late summer harvest and good
storage qualities. Plant seed potatoes, not those sold
for eating. They are treated so they wont sprout.
Potatoes can be planted as soon as the ground can be
worked. Plant potatoes in rows or hills. Hills should be
about 1 ft. (30 cm) in diameter. Potatoes should be
watered deeply and allowed to dry out to a depth of 2 in.
(5 cm) before watering again. Be sure that potatoes are
well covered with soil, to prevent poisonous greening of
the tubers.

There are basically two main types of peppers, hot
peppers and sweet bell peppers, which taste mild when
green and sweet when red. Peppers should be started
indoors, March 15-30, or bought as seedlings. Peppers
are heat-loving plants with the same requirements as
tomatoes. They should be planted outdoors in a sunny,
Early potatoes should be harvested when their tops
begin to flower. Late and mid-season potatoes should
be harvested when their tops begin to die back and
stored in a cool dry place.

58
 fruits & v
egetables tip: Plant strawberries as soon as possible so the
plants become well established before next year.

squash
Squash can be divided into two categories, summer
squash, which is eaten when immature, when the skin
is soft, and winter squash, which has a hard shell and a
long storage life. Squash takes up a considerable
amount of space in the garden and takes from 60 to
100 days to mature. Squash requires warm soil to
germinate and should be started indoors, April 15-30, or
bought as seedlings. Seedlings can be planted outdoors
when the daytime temperature is consistently above
15 Celsius, usually around June 1. Plant seedlings in
rows or 6-8 in. (15-20 cm) hills, 4-6 ft. (1.5-2 m) apart
for summer, or bush squash and 8-10 ft. (2.5-3.5 m)
apart for winter, or vine squash.

watermelon
Watermelon is a vine that enjoys warm soil and
occupies a lot of space. Seeds should be started
indoors, April 1-10 and seedlings should be planted
outdoors when daytime temperatures stay above 15
Squash requires a lot of moisture, so regular deep
Celsius, usually around June 1. Watermelon can be
watering and mulching, which will help to retain water
planted in rows or mounds 8 in. (20 cm) in diameter
and protect the tender vines, is advisable. Harvest
and 4-6 ft. (1.5-2 m) apart. It requires regular deep
summer squash when they are young and tender. Regular
watering and should be mulched for water retention
harvest of summer squash will increase yields. Winter
and fed throughout the season.
squash should be harvested after their vines die back
or the first frost. After harvest, winter squash should be
cured outdoors in the sun or in a warm place indoors for
about a week and then stored in a cool dry place.

59
gardeners secrets - vegetables
Placement & Planting Tips
Plant your garden in a sunny area. The more sun the better.
Add Zeolite, for clay breakdown and aeration, and
compost for nutrition to enrich soil.
Cold crops such as, lettuce and spinach can be planted
as soon as the garden is workable, but it is recommended
that you wait until June 1, or all risk of frost has passed.
Tomatoes and peppers can be started inside in February
or March. Gardeners might want to try the Jiffy
Professional Greenhouse.
Seeds can be planted as soon as the ground can be
worked. McKenzie Seeds are always a quality option.
gardeners secrets - tomatoes
Start tomatoes inside and February or March. Gardeners
might want to try the Jiffy Tomato Greenhouse.
Remove peat pots since they do not degrade well with
Calgarys short, dry summers.
Containers are best for growing tomatoes. This is due to
our cold soil conditions.
Bone meal adds additional calcium that will help to
prevent blossom end rot. GroundsKeepers Pride Bone
Meal is a great choice.
Watering Tips
Moist soil is very important. Slow, deep watering first
thing in the morning will reduce evaporation and the
risk of mildew that is present with evening watering.
Maintenance Tips
Thin crops for better yield.
Mulch to reduce weeds and retain water. Beats Peat is
an excellent option, it absorbs and holds more water
than peat moss and is produced from coconut husks,
which are a much more renewable resource than the
harvest of the peat bogs, making it a more environmentally
friendly approach.
Increase yield of tomato plants by removing suckers.
Feeding Tips
Feed tomatoes a high calcium fertilizer, such as Myke
Tomato Food 5-6-8 plus Calcium, and water consistently
to prevent Blossom End Rot.
Feed tomato plants a high potassium fertilizer to
increase fruit production. Try Plant-Prod Ultimate -
Tomato & Vegetable 15-15-30 for proven results.
Suckers on tomato plants refer to the new growth in the
joint between two stems. Remove them for a greater yeild.
Stake or cage vine tomatoes for added support.
60
 tomatoes
Tomatoes are one of the most widely grown of all
garden plants, edible or flowering. There are a great many
varieties; gardeners should choose varieties that will
yield the type of tomatoes that they or their family enjoy.
There are two main types of tomatoes, bush and vine.
bush tomatoes
Bush tomatoes are determinate, that is, they grow to
a specific size, produce fruit and then die. With their
shrub-like growth habit they do not usually need
staking. Some bush tomatoes are also known as early
tomatoes. Along with a relatively short time to
maturation, these tomatoes will blossom and fruit with
low nighttime temperatures, a fixture at the tail end of
most Calgary summers.
vine tomatoes
Vine tomatoes are considered indeterminate. That is,
they continue growing for an indeterminate length of
time. This means they will grow and produce fruit until
the frost kills them. Vine tomatoes need to be planted
in tomato cages or staked for support. Fruit from
unsupported plants may rot and discolour on the
ground. Vines should be tied to tomato cages or stakes
with stake tape as they grow.
61
tip: Ventilate cold frames and greenhouses
whenever possible. This encourages sturdy
plant growth. Also remove winter insulation from
greenhouse and put on shading when spring
temperatures increase.
planting
Plant tomatoes in a warm, sunny place with good
drainage. They also do well in large containers on a deck
or patio and thrive with reflected sun behind them as
well as direct sun.
NOTE: Tomato seedlings should be planted deeper than most
other seedlings, up to their first set of leaves. Larger plants
should be planted several inches deeper than they are in the
container.
maintenance
Tomatoes require consistent, deep watering to thrive.
Soil should be checked for moisture every day in hot
weather. Water well, do not sprinkle - the whole root ball
needs moisture. Be sure that containers have good
drainage. Mulching around the base of tomato plants
will help them to retain water and discourage weed
growth. Drought causes black patches on the bottom of
the fruit (blossom end rot), which are unsightly and
make the fruit inedible.
NOTE: The more direct sun for tomatoes the more flavour.
Calgary Horticultural Society member garden
 tip: Do not forget to harvest fruit and vegetables
as they ripen.

tomatoes Name
Comments
Days to Harvest Bush/Vine Determinate/Indeterminate

Beef Master 65-70 days Vine Indeterminate

Large meaty fruit, bright red, good for short season

Big Beef 72 days Vine Indeterminate

Large, early beefsteak type

Champion 62 days Bush Indeterminate

Medium sized fruit, sweet, good slicer

Early Girl Hybrid 52 days Vine Indeterminate

Round, medium-sized fruit, continuous producer, excellent flavor, needs staking

Health Kick 72 days Vine Determinate

4-5oz fruit. 50% more lycopene. High yield

Lemon Boy 72 days Vine Indeterminate

Round, lemon yellow skin and fruit, mild flavor

Manitoba 60 days Bush Determinate

Early with a good flavour

La Roma Mama Mia 60-65 days Bush Determinate

Medium-sized, pear-shaped tomato, good for sauces and paste, heavy yield. Do not prune

Sub Arctic Maxi 48-50 days Bush Determinate

Golf ball sized, bright red fruit, good yields, sets fruit in cool conditions, very early

Sweet Million 60-70 days Vine Indeterminate

Clusters of small, sweet fruit, very prolific, needs staking

Tumbler 55 days Bush Determinate

Small, sweet cherry tomatoes, early, good in hanging baskets or pots

Ox Heart 80 days Vine Indeterminate

Heart shaped. Dark pink

62
 roses
It is a common misconception that rose gardening
is the domain of expert gardeners. With a large variety
of types and growth habits, a rose bush can add colour
and fragrance to almost any garden. Many roses can
survive Calgarys harsh winter climate with little more
care than a flowering shrub or perennial, while other
more tender varieties need winter protection.
There are two main classifications that will be used for
the purpose of Calgary rose gardening - hardy shrub
roses and tender roses. Greengate carries a large
variety of roses, both hardy and tender. Please feel free
to consult our helpful greengate staff if you have any
rose questions.
hardy shrub roses
These easily grown Calgary favorites are suited to
novice and expert gardeners alike.
Those who want summer roses without the winterization
needed by tender roses find these to be an excellent
option. For those gardeners who want decorative
hedges and borders, these roses with their shrub-like
growth habit are often ideal.
explorer
Developed in Canada and named for early Canadian
explorers, these disease resistant hybrids bloom
prolifically on new growth. Many varieties bloom all
summer, with others blooming twice, in early and
later summer.
63
tip: If roses need pruning, do so as new leaves
emerge. Cut back dead tips to just above a leaf.
Make your cuts at an angle but not too steep. Cut
away branches that cross and shorten those that
are too long.
parkland
Developed in Manitoba expressly to survive through
Canadas winter, these compact shrub roses will bloom
and re-bloom throughout the summer.
rugosa and other shrub roses
These roses are vigorous and hardy with very prickly
stems. They come in a large variety of colours and are
usually fragrant. These plants are good for hedges and
garden beds.
climbing roses
True climbing roses do not do well in the Calgary
climate. There are, however, some tall, hardy shrub
roses that can be trained to climb a trellis or a fence.
tender roses
Tender roses are those roses that require protection to
ensure survival. The huge variety of bloom sizes and
colours make these tender roses a beautiful addition to
many Calgary gardens.
hybrid tea roses
These garden favorites feature large flowers on long
stems, with usually one flower per stem. They make
excellent cut flowers and come in many varieties and
multiple colours.
floribunda
Large quantities of smaller flowers are presented in
clusters on these bushy plants. With their shrub-like
growth habit and abundance of flowers, floribundas are
an excellent choice for garden beds and border plants.
grandiflora
This combination of hybrid tea and floribunda roses
produces large vigorous plants, and flowers on long
stems. Flowers on grandiflora are present both singly
and in clusters. They make good cut flowers.
miniature roses
These perfect, scaled down versions of hybrid tea and
floribunda roses come in a stunning variety of colours.
These miniatures will bloom continually throughout the
summer and can be grown both in and outdoors.
rose maintenance
watering
Roses are heavy feeders that require water at all times
during the growing season. A lack of moisture will slow
or halt blooming and growth. It is important that the soil
has good drainage and that water never collects around
the roots of roses.
Allow the soil to become dry only a little below the surface.
Water deeply at the base of the plants but not enough
to allow water to collect for any length of time.
Mulch may be added to increase moisture retention in
hot, dry weather.
deadheading for flowering
As your rose blooms wither they should be removed
from the stem. Remove head at a shoot or leaf junction
to encourage further flowering.
pruning
(see Pruning section pg. 113, for detailed instruction)
fertilizing
Roses benefit from regular fertilizing, such as 20-20-
20, 15-30-15 or 20-30-20. Fertilize only until about the
middle of August. Later fertilizing stimulates new
growth, which could be harmed by early frost. Fertilizer
does not make roses (or any flower) bloom. They bloom
when they are healthy and receive enough sunlight.
Some bloom for a short period, others bloom all summer.
winter protection for tender roses
1) Prune long stems down to about twelve to
eighteen inches (45 cm).
2) Water in well.
3) Mulch heavily at base with dry leaves, vermiculite
or straw.
4) Cover stems with a rose cone with the top cut out.
5) Fill container with mulch, and cover the open area
with cloth to allow air circulation during Chinooks.
6) Do not cover too soon in the fall. Wait until
considerable frost is expected. Covering too soon
stops them from getting cold and entering
dormancy, which is necessary for their survival.
Uncover in spring when poplar trees are leafing
out. Uncovering them too soon to see if they are
alive is likely to kill them during another frost. Be
prepared to cover them when frost is expected.
Note: Snow is an excellent insulator and may be piled on both
shrub and covered tea roses for added moisture and protection.
64
 roses Name

Comments
Height/Spread
Fragrance
Flower Colour Bloom

explorer roses
ALEXANDER MCKENZIE 6/5 ft. 1.7/1.5 m dark reddish pink medium double
strong
Tall, continually blooming, fragrant rose

CHAMPLAIN 4/3 ft. 1.25/1 m bright red medium double

medium
Double flowers are continually produced throughout the summer

CHARLES ALBANEL 2/2 ft. .6/.6 m pink small single

medium
Low growing rose, recurring flowers through summer; good ground cover, disease resistant

DAVID THOMPSON 3/1.5 ft. 1/.75 m pink medium double

strong
Continual double flowers; compact, shrub-like growth habit

DE MONTARVILLE 3/3 ft. 1/1 m medium pink medium semi-double

medium
Continual bloom. Flowers average 7 cm in clusters of 1-4

FRONTENAC 3/3 ft. 1/1 m deep pink large double

light
Clusters of double flowers through entire season, disease resistant

GEORGE VANCOUVER 3/3 ft. 1/1 m soft red medium double

light
Clusters of double flowers through entire season

HENRY HUDSON 2/2 ft. .6/.6 m pink-white medium semi-double

light
Pink buds open into clusters of white flowers, continuing through the summer

HENRY KELSEY 7/5 ft. 2/1.5 m scarlet red medium semi-double

medium
Long, vigorous, arching stems; flower clusters form throughout the summer

J.P. CONNELL 4/4 ft. 1.2/1.2 m yellow-cream medium double

light
Yellow flowers fade to cream; flowers re-bloom though out the season

JENS MUNK 5/4 ft. 1.5/1.2 m pink medium double

strong
Continual fragrant double blooms all season
65
roses Name

Comments
Height/Spread
Fragrance
Flower Colour Bloom

JOHN CABOT 7/5 ft. 2/1.5 m pink medium double

strong
Tall arching stems topped with continual clusters of fragrant roses; can be trained to climb

JOHN DAVIS 7/5 ft. 2/1.5 m pink medium double

strong
Tall arching stems topped with continual fragrant roses; can be trained to climb, disease resistant

JOHN FRANKLIN 4/2 ft. .8/.75 m red medium double

medium
Compact plant with large clusters of continual bloom through out the summer

LAMBERT CLOSSE 3/3 ft. .75/.75 m light pink small double

strong
Fragrant flowers with a classic hybrid tea rose form from June to September

LOUIS JOLLIET 4/2 ft. 1.2/.6 m pink medium double

medium
Continual blooms; spicy fragrance; can be trained as climber, disease resistant

MARTIN FROBISHER 5/3 ft. 1.5/1 m light pink medium double

strong
Very fragrant double blooms through out the summer

QUADRA 6/4 ft. 1.8/1.2 m deep red double

medium
Suitable for climbing. Highly fragrant. Blooms late June through summer

ROYAL EDWARD 1.5/3 ft. 1/1 m dark pink medium semi-double

medium
Small plant with low growth habit; blooms repeatedly though the season, disease resistant

SAMUEL HOLLAND 6/5 ft. 2/1.5 m fuchsia pink medium double

medium
Upright growth habit with arching branches topped with clusters of re-blooming red flowers

SIMON FRASER 2/2 ft. .6/.6 m coral pink medium semi-double

medium
Low growing rose with single flowers becoming semi-double through the season

WILLIAM BAFFIN 7/3 ft. 2/1 m pink medium semi-double

light
Tall arching rose, showy early summer blooms repeated through summer; can be trained to climb, disease resistant

WILLIAM BOOTH 5/6 ft. 1.5/1.7 m pink medium single

Unique trailing habit with repeat bloom from June to Sept. Disease and mildew resistant
66
 roses Name

Comments
Height/Spread
Fragrance
Flower Colour Bloom

parkland roses
ADELAIDE HOODLESS 4/4 ft. 1.2/1.2 m red medium semi-double
light
Bright red continuous flowers borne singly, disease resistant

CUTHBERT GRANT 4/3 ft. 1.2/.75 m deep purplish red large double
light
Recurring bloomer with very large, crimson, double flowers

HOPE FOR HUMANITY 3/3 ft. 1/1 m deep wine red medium double
light
Low, compact rose; wine-red continuous blooms

MORDEN AMORETTE 2/2 ft. .6/.6 m carmine rose medium double

medium
Compact bushy shrub. Blooms from spring till frost

MORDEN BLUSH 3/3 ft. 1/1 m light pink small double

medium
Very long blooming hybrid tea type flowers, low growing; light pink flowers fade to ivory, disease resistant

MORDEN CARDINETTE 2/2 ft. 1.6/1.6 m cardinal red medium double

light
Low compact shrub. Striking red blooms all season

MORDEN CENTENNIAL 3/3 ft. 1/1 m pink medium double

medium
Clusters of bright pink flowers; recurrent blooms through the summer, disease resistant

MORDEN FIREGLOW 2/2 ft. .6/.6 m orange red medium double

light
Brilliant flower colour; recurrent blooms through the summer

MORDEN RUBY 3/3 ft. 1/1 m ruby red - lighter markings medium double
light
Clusters of blended pink flowers

MORDEN SNOWBEAUTY 2.5/3 ft. .75/1 m white medium semi-double

light
Low growing shrub. High disease resistance

MORDEN SUNRISE 3/3 ft. 1/1 m yellow/orange small semi-double

light
Uniquely coloured, continuous blooms
67
roses Name

Comments
Height/Spread
Fragrance
Flower Colour Bloom

WINNIPEG PARKS 2/2 ft. .6/.6 m deep pink medium double

light
Hardy, low growing rose with clusters of bright red continuous flowers

other hardy shrub roses

AUSTRIAN COPPER 7/5 ft. 2/1.5 m orange medium single
strong
Tall upright growth habit with unique orange flowers, yellow underneath, blooms in June

BLANC DE COUBERT 5/5 ft. 1.5/1.5 m white medium double

strong
Fragrant white, continually blooming flowers, disease resistant

F.J. GROOTENDORST 4/3 ft. 1.3/1 m red small double

light
Carnation-like, recurrent red flowers over leathery dark green foliage, disease resistant

HANSA 5/5 ft. 1.5/1.5 m reddish purple medium double

strong
Hardy, vigorous, fragrant rose with recurrent reddish-purple blooms, disease resistant

HUNTER 5/3 ft. 1.5/1 m crimson large double

light
Repeat blooms. Will tolerate some shade

PERSIAN YELLOW 6/5 ft. 2/1.5 m yellow medium double

strong
Tall vigorous rose with deep yellow flowers; long lasting blooms in June

PINK GROOTENDORST 4/3 ft. 1.25/1 m pink small double

light
Continual blooming, carnation-like, double pink flowers, disease resistant

PRAIRIE DAWN 5/3 ft. 1.5/1 m pink small double

light
Double continual blooms on large upright shrub

PRAIRIE JOY 4/4 ft. 1.25/1.25 m pink small double

medium
Dense foliage make this plant ideal for hedging or screening, flowers mostly in June

RED LEAF 5/4 ft. 1.5/1.25 m pink small single

medium
Attractive reddish-purple foliage on reddish stems, pink summer flowers with a white eye
68
 roses Name

Comments
Height/Spread
Fragrance
Flower Colour Bloom

SIR THOMAS LIPTON 7/4 ft. 2/1.25 m white large semi-double

strong
Tall vigorous growth habit with pure white, large fragrant flowers in spring

THERESA BUGNET 6/5 ft. 1.75/1.5 m pink large double

medium
Repeat blooming on old wood, disease resistant foliage turns red in the fall

TOPAZ JEWEL 5/3 ft. 1.5/1 m yellow medium double

medium
Cream yellow flowers bloom continually through out the summer, disease resistant

gardeners secrets - roses

Mulching around the base of roses will help to reduce soil born diseases, such as black spot. Cedar or bark mulch as required.

Plant in an airy location. Ventilation is important for rose health.

Iron Chelate added to the soil helps to reduce the yellowing of leaves. Plant Prod Iron Chelate 7% is a great choice.

Feed roses using a high quality, rose specific fertilizer for best results. A good option is Myke Rose Food 5-3-8.

69
Dig Up the Benefits
of Membership with the
Calgary Horticultural Society

Discounts at gardening retailers

Discounts on workshops, books, bus tours
Eight issues of Calgary Gardening
Garden Tours
Informative Website
members-only section
on-line discussion forum
plant database
Community Gardens Resource Network
Community Gardens Searchable Database
Speaker Events
Plant Shares
Rewarding volunteer & learning opportunities

To discover more and join:

www.calhort.org or call 403.287.3469

Come grow with us!

 trees
The climate of Alberta is conducive to
growing a wider variety of trees and shrubs than
most people realize. Our cold winters bring the
dormancy that trees and shrubs need to renew their
growth cycle. Choosing plants that thrive in Alberta
is the first step toward having a beautiful outdoor
living area and garden. Also remember we have
Microclimates in our yards; retaining walls, sidewalks
and paved surfaces radiate heat and our south facing
areas area generally warmer than the north.
what makes greengate garden centres
trees and shrubs special?
Trees and shrubs are grown from the hardiest sources
available; selections are chosen from the coldest
climates in Canada. Our suppliers plants are container
grown and provide the consumer with an established,
well-rooted plant with impressive health and vigor.
New exciting shrubs coming to our tree lot this year
Vanilla Strawberry Hydrangea Hydrangea
paniculata Renhy. From France this beautiful
hydrangea has enormous flower panicles of vanilla
and strawberry, held upright on red stems. This
71
delicious creation can be found in the tree lot or just
ask a greengate staff member.
Bombshell Hydrangea Hydrangea paniculata
Bombshell. Bombshell is a compact well branched
shrub with a plethora of white flowers, the most flowers
per plant than any other paniculata cultivar, that
contrast against its medium to dark green foliage. It
blooms from early summer until frost.
Physocarpus opulifolius Donna May
Little Devil Ninebark. This plant is a dwarf version of the
diabolo Ninebark. A densely mounding shrub with fine
textured foliage and short internodes. This shrub will
mature to a compact and balanced 90-120cm height
and 90-120cm spread.
Comb o Polar Ha ska p Berry H/ S
Lonicera cae. kamtschatica Polar Combo. Polar Night
and Polar Jewel Haskap are in one pot for cross
pollination. Native to Siberia fragrant blue green foliage
compliment white blooms on pink stems. In fall, it s
foliage turns to a wonderful yellow and in early summer
this shrub bears large edible dark blue berries; good for
eating, jams, jellies and baking.
Bloomerang lilac Syringa x Penda PPAF. Like
lilacs in general this lovely plant shares blooms of blue
lavender from mid to late spring but then repeats in
midsummer to fall. This Lilac makes and excellent
hedge plant and loves full sun.
During the first season after planting; supplemental
watering is required to encourage a healthy tree and
root system. As fall approaches stop any fertilization
and continuing watering up until the ground is frozen;
to allow the roots to freeze and survive the winter. Our
knowledgeable staff will be happy to assist you with all
of your tree and shrub selections.
written by: Susan Pittonet
trees and shrubs 4) Fill in hole with a mixture of topsoil and compost.
Trees and shrubs give an air of maturity to a yard.
Deciduous plants give yards summer shade and colour 5) Water plant in well and fertilize with a transplant
until they lose their leaves in the fall. Evergreen trees fertilizer (10-52-10) or Myke growth supplement.
and shrubs keep their foliage all year round, giving
needed winter colour. Note: Peat pots should be removed from all plants planted in
the Calgary area, as they do not degrade quickly in our short
growing season.
While trees and shrubs serve many decorative
purposes, they are useful for other garden needs. They
can be used for shelterbelts, privacy screens and much
needed shade, to name a few. Both deciduous and
evergreen trees and shrubs come in a large variety of
sizes, shapes and leaf and needle patterns.

flowering fruit trees

All apple, crabapple, apricot, pear and plum trees need
two varieties of that tree within bee flying distance for
pollination, if fruit is desired. Generally this isnt difficult
with apples and crabapples, as they are common, but
apricot, plum and pear are less likely to be close by.
Plums need two different varieties that bloom at the
same time.

planting and positioning

Your choice of tree or shrub will depend on two main
things, the size of the area that you wish to fill, and the
purpose you have for filling for that spot. When
considering a plant for a certain area, be sure to consider
the plants ultimate size. Be sure not to plant too close
to houses, garages, or other permanent structures.

Trees and shrubs can be planted anytime from spring

to fall. If the ground can be worked, you can plant.

tree & shrub planting steps

1) Dig a hole 2 times the width of the root-ball or
the pot that the plant comes in and a little deeper.

2) Remove the plant from its pot or remove burlap if

bare root and gently massage roots.

3) Plant the tree or shrub in the hole at the same level

it was planted in the pot.

Calgary Horticultural Society member garden 72

 trees Name
Comments
Botanical Name Height/Spread Zone

non-flowering trees
ASH-MANCHURIAN Fraxinus mandschurica 30/15 ft. 9/5 m 3
Compact, with a round head; good street or shade tree

ASH-PATMORE GREEN Fraxinus pennsylvanica Patmore 30/15 ft. 10/5 m 3

The most cold tolerant green ash; holds leaves longest; seedless

ASPEN-QUAKING/TREMBLING Populus tremuloides 30/15 ft. 9/5 m 2

Native tree with delicate foliage; fast growth habit

ASPEN-SWEDISH COLUMNAR Populus tremula Erecta 30/7 ft. 9/2 m 3

Narrow tree with columnar shape and delicate foliage; fast growth habit

BIRCH-CUTLEAF WEEPING Betula pendula Gracilis 30/20 ft. 10/6 m 3

Delicate cut leaves with weeping growth habit and white bark; requires ample water

BIRCH-EUROPEAN WHITE Betula pendula 30/20 ft. 10/6 m 3

Delicate round leaves with weeping growth habit and white bark; requires ample water

BIRCH-PAPER Betula papyrifera 40/ 15 ft. 10/5 m 3

Very white papery bark; taller and narrower tree, requires ample water

BIRCH-YOUNGS WEEPING Betula pendula Youngii 10/12 ft. 3/4 m 3

Smaller, umbrella-shaped weeping tree with white bark; requires ample water

ELM-AMERICAN Ulmus americana 50/30 ft. 15/9 m 3

Large toothed leaves on outer branches of vase-shaped tree

ELM-BRANDON Ulmus americana Brandon 40/25 ft. 12/8 m 3

Large toothed leaves on outer branches of vase-shaped tree; compact

73
 tip: Birch or Maple trees should only be pruned
in July. If they are pruned at the wrong time, they
will bleed.

trees Name
Comments
Botanical Name Height/Spread Zone

MAPLE-AMUR Acer ginnala 12/10 ft. 4/3 m 3

Small graceful tree or large shrub with scarlet fall colour

MAPLE-MANITOBA Acer negundo 30/20 ft. 9/6 m 2

Hardy with interesting furrowed bark and large, compound leaves

OAK-BUR Quercus macrocarpa 30/20 ft. 9/6 m 3

Hardy, slow growing oak with large lobed leaves

POPLAR-TOWER Populus canescens Tower 30/7 ft. 7/2 m 3

Narrow tree with columnar shape and silvery leaves; fast growth habit

WILLOW-GOLDEN Salix alba vitellina 30/25 ft. 9/8 m 4

Fast growing, wide tree with gold stems for winter colour; requires ample water

WILLOW-LAUREL LEAF Salix pentandra 30/25 ft. 9/8 m 3

Fast growing, wide tree with glossy leaves; requires ample water

flowering fruit trees

APPLE-BATTLEFORD Malus Battleford 20/15 ft. 6/5 m white 3
Large yellow-green fruit with a red blush; good for cooking or eating fresh; ripens in Aug.

APPLE-BROOKLAND Malus Brookland 20/15 ft. 6/5 m white 3

Medium sized yellow fruit with a red blush; good for cooking or eating fresh; ripens in Aug.

APPLE-COMBINATION Malus Combination 20/15 ft. 6/5 m pink 3

A combination of at least three apple varieties grafted on one tree; different varieties pollinate each other

APPLE-FALL RED Malus Fall Red 20/15 ft. 6/5 m white 3

Large dull red fruit; good for storing or eating fresh; stores well, ripens in Sept.

APPLE-GOODLAND Malus Goodland 20/15 ft. 6/5 m white 3

Large green fruit with a red blush; good for storing, cooking or eating fresh; ripens Sept.

74
 trees Name
Comments
Botanical Name Height/Spread Flower Colour Zone

APPLE-HARCOURT Malus Harcourt 20/15 ft. 6/5 m white 3

Bright red fruit with tender flesh; good for eating fresh, cooking and storing; ripens mid Sept.

APPLE-HARDI-MAC Malus Hardi-Mac 20/15 ft. 6/5 m pink 3

Bright red crisp fruit; good for eating fresh; ripens in Sept.

APPLE-NORLAND Malus Norland 20/15 ft. 6/5 m white 3

Medium sized green-red fruit; good for eating fresh; ripens Aug.

APPLE-PARKLAND Malus Parkland 20/15 ft. 6/5 m white 3

Yellow-green fruit with a red blush; good for storing, cooking or eating fresh; ripens Sept.

APPLE-SEPTEMBER RUBY Malus September Ruby 20/15 ft. 6/5 m white 3

Large bright red fruit; good for storing, eating fresh or making juice; ripens in Sept.

APPLECRAB-KERR Malus Kerr 20/15 ft. 6/5 m white 3

Medium sized dark red fruit; good for storing, canning or eating fresh; ripens Sept.

APPLECRAB-RESCUE Malus Rescue 20/15 ft. 6/5 m white 3

Medium sized red and green striped fruit; good for cooking or eating fresh; ripens in Sept.

APRICOT-BROOKCOT Prunus mandshurica Armeniaca 16/13 ft. 5/4 m white 4

An unreliable producer due to early bloom period; good for cooking and jam.

APRICOT-SCOUT Prunus armeniaca Scout 16/13 ft. 5/4 m white 4

An unreliable producer due to early bloom period; good for cooking and jam.

APRICOT-WESTCOT Prunus armenica Westcot 16/13 ft. 5/4 m white 4

An unreliable producer due to early bloom period; good for cooking and jam.

CHERRY-NORTH STAR Prunus North Star 16/13 ft. 5/4 m white 3

Large red freestone cherries; good for cooking, self-pollinating

CRABAPPLE-COLUMNAR Malus baccata Columnaris 20/4 ft. 6/1 m white 3

Narrow columnar growth habit; tiny red, decorative fruit that birds love

75
 tip: Never assume that the holes in the leaves
mean that there are insects present - Why?
Whenever there is severe weather, there are many
physical damages that can occur - wind - hail -
excessive water.

trees Name
Comments
Botanical Name Height/Spread Flower Colour Zone

CRABAPPLE-DOLGO Malus Dolgo 25/15 ft. 8/5 m white 3

Upright spreading growth with small red fruit; good for jelly or eating fresh

CRABAPPLE-HOPA Malus Hopa 20/15 ft. 6/5 m rose 3

Upright spreading growth and rose coloured flowers turning to small red fruit; good for jelly making

PEAR-GOLDEN SPICE Pyrus Golden Spice 20/15 ft. 6/5 m white 3

Very decorative flowers in spring, two varieties required for pollination; good for cooking and canning

PEAR-MOUNTAIN FROST Pyrus ussuriensis Bailfrost 20/16 ft. 6/5 m white 4

Vigorous upright growth with fragrant white blooms in spring. Will only occasionally produce small ornamental fruit

PEAR-URE Pyrus ussuriensis Ure 20/15 ft. 6/5 m white

Very decorative flowers in spring, two varieties required for pollination. Small, sweet fruit, good for cooking, canning
and eating fresh

PLUM-BROOKGOLD Prunus Brookgold 15/12 ft. 5/4 m white 3

Requires sand cherry for pollination; good for cooking or eating fresh; ripens in Aug.

PLUM-BROOKRED Prunus Brookred 15/12 ft. 5/4 m white 3

Requires Pembina or Opata plum for pollination; good for cooking; ripens in Aug.

PLUM-OPATA Prunus Opata 15/12 ft. 5/4 m white 3

Requires Pembina or Brookred plum for pollination; good for cooking or eating fresh; ripens in Aug.

PLUM-PEMBINA Prunus Pembina 15/12 ft. 5/4 m white 3

Requires Brookred or Opata plum for pollination; good for eating fresh; ripens in Sept.

flowering ornamental trees

CHERRY-AMUR Prunus maackii 30/15 ft. 9/5 m white 3
Bronze coloured bark; small black fruit follows spring flowers, attracts birds

CHERRY-PIN Prunus pensylvanica 16/10 ft. 5/3 m white 3

Small tree with reddish bark; fragrant flowers are followed by small ornamental red cherries; attracts birds

76
 trees Name
Comments
Botanical Name Height/Spread Flower Colour Zone

CHOKECHERRY-SCHUBERT Prunus virginiana Schubert 30/15 ft. 9/5 m white 3

Green foliage turns to purple-red through the summer; fragrant flowers are followed by ornamental
fruit in the fall, attracts birds

CHOKECHERRY-WESTERN 16/13 ft. 5/4 m

Prunus virginiana v. melanocarpa white 2
Native tree with fragrant flowers followed by ornamental fruit in the fall, attracts birds

CRABAPPLE-KELSEY Malus Kelsey 15/15 ft. 5/5 m pink 4

Bronze foliage with profuse pink blooms; the only double flowering crabapple

CRABAPPLE-MAKAMIK Malus Makamik 15/15 ft. 5/5 m rose 3

Vigorous grower with bronze foliage and profuse pink blooms

CRABAPPLE-PINK SPIRE Malus Pink Spire 20/13 ft. 6/4 m pink 3

Narrow upright growth habit; purple-red foliage turns to green through the summer

CRABAPPLE-RADIANT Malus Radiant 15/15 ft. 5/5 m rose 3

Compact symmetrical growth habit; purple-red foliage turns to green through the summer

CRABAPPPLE-WEEPING ROSY GLOW Malus Weeping Rosy Glow 5/5 ft. 1.5/1.5 m pink 3
Small tree with a weeping habit, abundant red fruit in late summer

CRABAPPLE-SELKIRK Malus Selkirk 15/15 ft. 5/5 m pink 3

Hardy tree; red foliage turns bronze-green through summer, small red fruit

CRABAPPLE-STRATHMORE Malus Strathmore 20/13 ft. 6/4 m pink 3

Narrow pyramidal growth habit; bronzed foliage, small red fruit

CRABAPPLE-THUNDERCHILD Malus Thunderchild 15 /15 ft. 5/5 m pink 3

Upright spreading growth habit; purple foliage; resistant to fire blight, small red fruit

HAWTHORN-SNOWBIRD Crataegus x mordenensis Snowbird 15/12 ft. 5/4m white 3

Upright tree with double white flowers in spring followed by clusters of red berries

77
trees Name
Comments
Botanical Name Height/Spread Flower Colour Zone

HAWTHORN-TOBA 15/12 ft. 5/4 m

Crataegus x mordenensis Toba pink 3
Upright tree with double white flowers, turning to pink, in spring followed by clusters of red berries

LILAC-JAPANESE TREE Syringa reticulata 20/12 ft. 6/4 m cream 3

Several varieties of compact tree-form lilacs; fragrant, cream summer flower clusters

LINDEN-LITTLE LEAF Tilia cordata 30/15 ft. 9/5 m yellow 4

Dense symmetrical tree with fragrant flowers; holds leaves well

MAYDAY Prunus padus commutata 30/25 ft. 9/8 m white 3

Fragrant clusters of showy flowers in spring; summer berries attract birds

MOUNTAIN ASH-AMERICAN Sorbus americana 25/20 ft. 8/6 m white 3

Spring flowers followed by fall berries, attracts birds; compound leaves turn orange in the fall. Needs good drainage

MOUNTAIN ASH-EUROPEAN Sorbus aucuparia 30/20 ft. 9/6 m white 3

Spring flowers followed by fall berries; lacy leaves turn orange in the fall. Attracts birds. Needs good drainage

MOUNTAIN ASH-PYRAMIDAL Sorbus aucuparia Fastigiata 20/6 ft. 6/2 m white 3

A variety of European mountain ash with a narrow pyramidal growth habit, needs good drainage

MOUNTAIN ASH-RUSSIAN Sorbus aucuparia Rossica 25/12 ft. 8/4 m white 3

A variety of European mountain ash with an upright, columnar growth habit, needs good drainage

MOUNTAIN ASH-SHOWY Sorbus decora 20/15 ft. 6/5 m white 2

Hardiest mountain ash; spring flowers followed by fall berries; attracts birds, compound leaves turn orange in the
fall, needs good drainage

OHIO BUCKEYE Aesculus glabra 20/15 ft. 6/5 m yellow 3

Large leaves and spring flowers followed by prickly fruit in the fall

RUSSIAN OLIVE Eleagnus angustfolia 16/13 ft. 5/5 m yellow 3-4

Narrow silvery foliage with small fragrant flowers and silvery fruit; black bark is attractive against snow in winter;
drought tolerant

78
 evergreens

79
 tip: Heavy clay soils need to opened by adding
plenty of organic matter. Many gardeners swear
by Zeolite.

evergreens Name
Comments
Botanical Name Height/Spread Sun/Shade Zone

cedar
large trees
CEDAR-BRANDON Thuja occidentalis Brandon 13/4 ft. 1.25/1.5 m part shade 3-4
Narrow columnar growth habit; somewhat hardier for the prairies

CEDAR-DEGROOTS SPIRE Thuja occidentalis Degroots Spire 7/2 ft. 1.5/.5 m part shade 4
Upright, narrow, spiral growth habit

CEDAR-EMERALD Thuja occidentalis Smaragd 13/5 ft. 4/1.5 m part shade 4

Pyramidal growth habit with emerald green foliage

CEDAR-GLOBE Thuja occidentalis Woodwardii 5/5 ft. 1.5/1.5 m part shade 3-4
Round shape; dark green foliage

CEDAR-HOLMSTRUP Thuja occidentalis Holmstrup7/3 ft. 2/1 m part shade

Compact with a narrow pyramidal growth habit; bright green foliage turns bronze in the fall

CEDAR-TECHNY Thuja occidentalis Techny 13/5 ft. 4/1.5 m part shade 3

Fast growing with a narrow pyramidal growth habit; somewhat tolerant of drying winds

CEDAR-WAREANA Thuja occidentalis Wareana 8/7 ft. 2.5/ 2 m part shade 3-4
Broad upright growth habit; dense dark green foliage

smaller varieties
CEDAR- DANICA Thuja occidentalis Danica 2/2 ft. .6/.6 m part shade 3
Compact cedar with bright emerald green foliage

CEDAR-LITTLE GEM Thuja occidentalis Little Gem 2/2 ft. .6/.6 m part shade 4
Dwarf variety in a global shape; bright green in colour

80
 evergreens Name
Comments
Botanical Name Height/Spread Sun/Shade Zone

CEDAR-LITTLE GIANT 3/3 ft. 1/1 m

Thuja occidentalis Little Giant part shade 4
Dwarf variety with a compact globe shape; soft feathery foliage

juniper
spreading varieties
JUNIPER-BAR HARBOR Juniperus horizontalis Bar Harbor .5/7 ft. 1.25/2 m sun to part shade 3
Fast grower; wispy blue-green foliage turns to a plum colour in winter

JUNIPER-BLUE CHIP Juniperus horizontalis Blue Chip 1/7 ft. .3/2 m sun to part shade 3
Silver-blue foliage; mounding growth habit

JUNIPER-BLUE DANUBE Juniperus sabina Blue Danube 2/7 ft. .6/2 m sun to part shade 3
Bright blue-green foliage with a spiky, spreading growth habit

JUNIPER-BLUE STAR Juniperus squamata Blue Star 1.5/5 ft. .5/1.5 m sun to part shade 4
Slow, mounding growth habit with interesting star-shaped, silver-blue needles

JUNIPER-BROADMOOR Juniperus sabina Broadmoor 1/7 ft. .3/2 m sun to part shade 3
Soft, bright green foliage; dense low growth habit

JUNIPER-BUFFALO Juniperus sabina Buffalo 1/7 ft. .3/2 m sun to part shade 3
Soft, feathery, bright green foliage; low spreading growth habit

JUNIPER-CALGARY CARPET 1/5 ft. .3/1.5 m

Juniperus sabina Calgary Carpet sun to part shade 3
Soft bright green foliage with a low, dense spreading growth habit

JUNIPER-GOLDCOAST Juniperus chinensis Goldcoast 3/5 ft. 1/1.5 m sun to part shade 4
Showy gold and green foliage; colour darkens in the winter

JUNIPER-GOLDEN PFITZER Juniperus chinensis Pfitzerana Aurea 3/7 ft. 1/2 m sun to part shade 4
Blue-green foliage with new tips gold; arching growth habit

81
evergreens Name
Comments
Botanical Name Height/Spread Sun/Shade Zone

JUNIPER-HOLGER Juniperus squamata Holger3/5 ft. 1/1.5 m sun to part shade 4

Dense spreading branches with blue-green foliage and yellow tips

JUNIPER-ICEE BLUE Juniperus horizontalis Icee Blue 1/5 ft. .3/1.5 m sun to part shade 3
Low growing and compact with bright silver-blue foliage

JUNIPER-MINT JULEP/SEA GREEN Juniperus chinensis Mint Julep 4/7 ft. 12/2 m sun to part shade 4
Mint-green foliage with a graceful arching growth habit

JUNIPER-NEW BLUE TAM Juniperus sabina Tamariscifolia New Blue 1.5/7 ft. 7/2 m sun to part shade 3
Bright blue foliage with a symmetrical mound shape and spreading growth habit

JUNIPER-PRINCE OF WALES Juniperus horizontalis Prince of Wales .5/7 ft. .2/2 m sun to part shade 3
Bright green foliage with very low spreading growth habit; colour turns to plum in fall

JUNIPER-SAVIN Juniperus sabina 3/7 ft. 1/2 m sun to part shade 3

Soft dark green foliage with a upright spreading growth habit

JUNIPER-SCANDIA Juniperus sabina Scandia 1/5 ft. .3/1.5 m sun to part shade 3
Green feathery foliage with a small low growth habit

JUNIPER-TABLE TOP BLUE Juniperus scopulorum Table Top 5/7 ft. 1.5/2 m sun to part shade 3
Dense, silver-blue foliage with a semi-spreading growth habit

JUNIPER-TAM GREEN Juniperus sabina Tamariscifolia 1.5/7 ft. .5/2 m sun to part shade 3
Low spreading, mounding growth habit; compact, neat appearance

JUNIPER-WILTONI .5/7 ft. .2/2 m

Juniperus horizontalis Wiltoni sun to part shade 3
Low growing, spreading growth habit with silver-blue foliage on long trailing branches

82
 evergreens Name
Comments
Botanical Name Height/Spread Sun/Shade Zone

upright varieties
JUNIPER BLUE ARROW Juniperus scopulorum Blue Arrow 16/2.5ft. 5/.75m sun 4
Tall, very narrow tree with bright blue foliage, great accent in small spaces

JUNIPER-COLOGREEN Juniperus scopulorum Cologreen 10/5 ft. 3/1.5 m sun to part shade 3
Compact, cone-shaped, upright growth habit; bright green foliage

JUNIPER-MEDORA Juniperus scopulorum Medora 10/2.5 ft. 3/.75 m sun to part shade 3
Slow growing, narrow and dense; blue-green foliage

JUNIPER-MOONGLOW Juniperus scopulorum Moonglow 12/5 ft. 3.5/1.5 m sun to part shade 3
Silvery blue foliage with a broad pyramidal growth habit

JUNIPER-TOLLESONS WEEPING Juniperus scopulorum Tollesons Weeping 12/ 8 ft. 3/1.5 m sun to part shade 4
Green, drooping branches give this tree a graceful weeping appearance

JUNIPER-WICHITA BLUE Juniperus scopulorum Wichita Blue 10/5 ft. 3/1.5 m sun to part shade
Pyramidal shape with a broad upright growth habit; fine silver foliage

pine
large trees
AUSTRIAN PINE Pinus nigra 35/12ft 10/3.3m sun 4
Large tree with long, dark green needles, attractive feature tree. Tolerates dry soil

BRISTLECONE Pinus aristata 13/7 ft. 4/2 m sun to part shade 2

Slow growing, rugged plant with unique green needles speckled with white

LIMBER PINE Pinus flexilis 30/15 ft. 10/6 m sun 3

Cone shaped when young; dense, flexible growth at maturity. Dark green needles, tolerates dry soil

83
 Did you know that Lodgepole pine is the
official tree of Alberta?

evergreens Name
Comments
Botanical Name Height/Spread Sun/Shade Zone

PINE-MOUNTAIN Pinus uncinata 20/10 ft. 6/3 m sun to part shade 3

Large shrub-like growth habit, larger than Mugho pine; short green needles

PINE-MUGHO Pinus mugo 5-15/10 ft. 1.5-5/3 m sun to part shade 1

Shrub-like growth habit; hardy evergreen with short green needles, varying mature sizes

PINE-SCOTCH Pinus sylvestris 25/10 ft. 8/3 m sun to part shade 3

Fast growing pine with a broad pyramidal shape; reddish bark interesting feature

PINE-SWISS STONE Pinus cembra 13/10 ft. 4/3 m sun to part shade 3
Dense columnar growth habit; slow growing

smaller varieties
DWARF MUGHO PINE Pinus mugo mugo 3/6 ft. 1/1.75 m sun to part shade 1
Shrub-like growth habit; hardy evergreen with short green needles

spruce
large trees
SPRUCE-BAKERI Picea pungens Bakeri 12/6 ft. 3.75/1.75 m sun to part shade 2
Conical growth habit with dark needles

SPRUCE-BLACK HILLS Picea glauca Densata 15/8 ft. 4.5/2.5 m sun to part shade 3
Symmetrical upright growth habit; blue-green needles

SPRUCE-COLORADO GREEN Picea pungens 35/13 ft. 10/4 m sun to part shade 2
Pyramidal growth habit with stiff green needles

SPRUCE-COLORADO BLUE Picea pungens Glauca 35/13 ft. 10/4 m sun to part shade 2
Pyramidal growth habit with stiff blue needles

84
 evergreens Name
Comments
Botanical Name Height/Spread Sun/Shade Zone

SPRUCE-FAT ALBERT Picea pungens Fat Albert 25/12 ft. 8/3.5 m sun to part shade 3
Wide, dense, pyramidal growth habit; vivid blue needles

SPRUCE-HOOPSII Picea pungens Hoopsii 30/10 ft. 10/3 m sun to part shade 2
Narrow, pyramidal growth habit; very bright blue needles

SPRUCE-MONTGOMERY Picea pungens Montgomery 3/7 ft. 1/2.5 m sun 3

Compact shrub with blue foliage, pyramidal shape as it matures

SPRUCE-WEEPING BLUE Picea pungens Pendula 20/8 ft. 6/3.5 m sun to part shade 3
Upright, weeping growth habit; lower branches may act as ground cover

smaller varieties
SPRUCE-BIRDS NEST Picea abies Nidiformis 3/5 ft. 1/1.5 m sun to part shade 3
Low growing shrubs with flat topped branches; concaved center

SPRUCE-BLUE NEST Picea mariana nana 3/5 ft. 1/1.5 m sun to part shade 3
Low growing evergreen with bluish green needles zone 3

SPRUCE-COLUMNAR BLUE Picea pungens Fastigiata 10/3 ft. 3/1 m sun to part shade 3
Narrow upright growth habit; blue new growth turns silver with age

SPRUCE-DWARF NORWAY Picea abies Pumila 3/5 ft. 1/1.5 m sun to part shade 3
Low growing compact shrub with mounding growth habit

SPRUCE- GLOBE BLUE Picea pungens Globosa 8/6.5 ft. 2.1/1.8 m sun to part shade 2
Slow growing, globe-shaped, dwarf tree; bright silver green foliage

SPRUCE-WEEPING NORWAY Picea abies Pendula 6/8 ft. 1.75/2.5 m sun to part shade 4
Upright, weeping growth habit; lower branches may act as ground cover

85
evergreens Name
Comments
Botanical Name Height/Spread Sun/Shade Zone

others
LARCH-SIBERIAN Larix sibirica 25/12 ft. 8/3.5 m sun to part shade 2
Unique conifer sheds needles in winter; soft green needles turn gold in the fall

LARCH-WEEPING Larix decidua Pendula Height depends on training, width 5-8 ft.
Deciduous conifer with soft green needles spring to early fall, needles turn yellow, then drop in late fall. Weeping
branches grow downwards, can cover ground

FIR-DWARF BALSAM Abies balsamea Nana 1/3 ft. .3/1 m part shade 4
Compact globe-like growth habit; flat green needles

RUSSIAN CYPRESS Microbiota decussata 1/5 ft. .3/1.5 m sun to part shade 3
Spreading growth habit; bright green foliage

86
 shrubs tip: Trim and reshape hedges in mid to late June.

planting & positioning

Your choice of tree or shrub will depend on two main
things, the size of the area that you wish to fill, and the
reason you are filling that spot. When considering a
plant for a certain area, be sure to consider the plants
ultimate size. Be sure not to plant too close to houses,
garages, or other permanent structures.

Trees and shrubs can be planted anytime from spring

to fall. If the ground can be worked you can plant.

tree & shrub planting steps

1) Dig a hole 2 times the width of the root-ball or
the pot that the plant comes in and a little deeper.

2) Remove the plant from its pot or remove burlap if

bare root and gently massage roots.

3) Plant the tree or shrub in the hole at the same level

it was planted in the pot.

4) Fill in hole with a mixture of topsoil and compost.

5) Water plant in well and fertilize with a transplant

fertilizer (10-52-10) or Myke growth supplement.

Note: Peat pots should be removed from all plants planted in

the Calgary area, as they do not degrade quickly in our short
growing season.

87
 Name Botanical Name Height/Spread Flower Colour
shrubs Comments
Sun or Shade Zone

ARROWOOD Viburnum dentatum 7/5 ft. 2/1.5 m white

sun to part shade 4
Clusters of umbrella shaped flowers in spring; blue back fruit, leaves turn red in the fall

ASHLEAF/FALSE SPIREA Sorbaria sorbifolia 7/7 ft. 2/2 m white

sun to shade 2
Spreading shrub with plumes of flowers and lacy foliage

AZALEA Rhododendron x spp. 3/3 ft. 1/1 m various

part shade 4
Many varieties, double flower clusters on compact shrubs, need winter protection and acid soil

BUFFALOBERRY, SILVER Shepherdia argentea 10/7 ft. 3/2 m yellow

sun 2
Hardy native shrub with spiny stems; silver fruit, drought tolerant

BURNING BUSH Euonymus hybrids 1.5-6/3-10 ft. .5-2/1-3 m pink, yellow

sun to part shade 2-3
Several varieties of compact shrubs, interesting small fruit, leaves turn red in the fall

CARAGANA Caragana hybrids 3-13/3-10 ft. 1-4/1-3 m yellow

sun to part shade 2
Many varieties of spiny stemmed shrubs with prolific yellow flowers; dwarf to quite tall; drought tolerant

COTONEASTER Cotoneaster acutifolia 7/5 ft. 2/1.5 m pink

sun 2
Hardy shrub with small glossy leaves that turn red in the fall; excellent hedging plant

CRANBERRY Virburnum species 2-10/2-7 ft. .5-3/.5-2 m white

moist sun to shade 2-3
Several varieties of shade tolerant compact shrubs with red fall colour; some with flowers and fruit

DAPHNE, ROSE Daphne cneorum 1-2/2-3 ft. .3-.6/.6-1 m pink

sun to part shade 4
Several varieties of small, dense, broad-leaved evergreen shrubs, fragrant early flowers

DOGWOOD Cornus hybrids 2-7/2-5 ft. .5-2/.5-1.5 m white

moist part sun to shade 3
Shade tolerant shrubs, colourful stems; clusters of white flowers in early summer

ELDER Sambucus species 7-10/5-7 ft. 2-3/1.5-2 m cream, white

sun 3
Several varieties of fast growing shrubs, green, yellow or variegated leaves, some deeply serrated

FORSYTHIA, NORTHERN GOLD Forsythia ovata Northern Gold 5/3 ft. 1.5/1 m yellow
sun to part shade 3
Earliest shrub to bloom in the spring
88
 Name Botanical Name Height/Spread Flower Colour
shrubs Comments
Sun or Shade Zone

HONEYSUCKLE Lonicera species 3-10/3-5 ft. 1-3/1-1.5 m various

sun to part shade 3
Several varieties of shrubs with fragrant spring flowers; small berries attract birds

HYDRANGEA Hydrangea species 3/3 ft. 1/1 m pink, white

moist part shade 3-4
Two varieties of shade tolerant shrubs with large showy flower clusters

LILAC Syringa spp. 5-15/5 ft. 1.5-3 m various

sun 3
Many varieties, large, fragrant flower clusters in spring

MOCKORANGE Philadelphus hybrids 5-8/5 ft. 1.5-2/1.5 m white

sun to part shade 2-4
Several varieties of shrubs with very fragrant flower clusters

NANNYBERRY Viburnum lentago 10/7 ft. 3/2 m white

sun to shade 3
Glossy foliage turns red in the fall; black fruit attracts birds

NINEBARK Physocarpus hybrids 3-7/3-5 ft. 1-2/1-1.5 m white

sun to part shade 3
Several varieties of shrubs with colourful foliage and white summer flowers

PLUM, DOUBLE FLOWERING Prunus triloba Multiplex 7/5 ft. 2/1.5 m pink
sun 3
Double flowers in early spring, very showy, before leaves emerge. No fruit

PLUM, PURPLE LEAFED Prunus cistena 6/5 ft. 1.8/1.5 m pink

sun 3
Purple leaves, small single pink flowers, no fruit, good color contrast in a landscape

POTENTILLA 2-3/2-3 ft. .5-1/.5-1 m

Potentilla fruiticosa hybrids various
sun 2-3
Many varieties of compact shrubs; small continually blooming flowers; great variety of colours and sizes

RHODODENDRON Rhododendron hybrids 3-5/3-5 ft. 1-1.5/1-1.5 m various

sun to part shade 4
Several varieties of compact evergreen shrubs with large early flowers, needs acid soil

RUSSIAN ALMOND Prunus tenella 5/5 ft. 1.5/1.5 m pink

sun 3
Fragrant spring flowers along the branches before narrow leaves emerge

SEA BUCKTHORN Hippophae rhamnoides 13/10 ft. 4/3 m yellow

sun 2
Thorny stems with narrow silver leaves and small flowers; masses of orange fruit if pollinated, drought tolerant
89
 Name Botanical Name Height/Spread Flower Colour
shrubs Comments
Sun or Shade Zone

SNOWBALL Viburnum opulus Roseum 7/5 ft. 2/1.5 m white

sun to part shade 3
Ball-shaped clusters of white spring flowers, no fruit, needs moist soil

SNOWBERRY Symphoricarpos albus 3/3 ft. 1/1 m pink

sun to shade 2
Hardy native shrub with white winter berries, drought tolerant

SPIREA Spiraea species 1-5/2-3 ft. .3-1.5/.6-1 m various

sun to part shade 2-4
Many varieties of compact shrubs with a great variety of leaf and flower colours

SUMAC Rhus species 7-10/5-7 ft. 2-3/1.5-3 m green, yellow

sun 3
Two varieties with delicate foliage and red, fall berries that attract birds

WAYFARING TREE Viburnum lantana 7/7 ft. 2/2 m white

sun to part shade 3
Grayish-green leathery leaves that turn red in the fall, and black fruit that attracts birds

WAYFARING TREE, MOHICAN Viburnum lantana Mohican 5/5 ft. 1.5/1.5 m white
sun to part shade 3
Smaller variety with grayish-green leathery leaves and orange-red fruit that attracts birds

WEIGELA Weigela florida 3-5/3-5 ft. 1-1.5/1-1.5 m various

sun to part shade 3-4
Several varieties of re-blooming tubular flowers

WILLOW Salix species 3-16/3-10 ft. 1-5/1-3 m n/a

2-3
Many varieties of hardy shrubs, attractive foliage and upright or spreading growth habit, moist

90
Calgary Horticultural Society member garden
 Name Botanical Name Height/Spread Flower Colour
shrubs Comments
Sun or Shade Zone

fruit bearing shrubs

BLUEBERRY Vaccinium spp. 1.5-5/3-5 ft. .5-1.5/1-1.5 m white
sun to part shade 4
Compact fruit bearing shrubs, grown for interesting fall foliage, coloured stems, fruit, needs acid soil

CHERRY, NANKING Prunus tomentosa 10/7 ft. 3/2 m pink

sun 2-3
Large shrub, single pink spring flowers, followed by small edible cherries; attracts birds

CHOKEBERRY Aronia melanocarpa 5/3-5 ft. 1.5/1-1.5 m white

sun 3
Red fall foliage follow spring display of white flowers, birds like black berries

CURRANT Ribes spp. 3-5/3-5 ft. 1-1.5/1-1.5 m various

sun to part shade 3
Fragrant spring flowers are followed by abundant berries; good for preserves

GOOSEBERRY Ribes spp. 3/3 ft. 1/1 m yellow

sun to part shade 3
Several varieties with tart, edible fruit; good for eating fresh or preserves

RASPBERRY Rubus spp. 5/5 ft. 1.5/1.5 m white

sun 2
Several varieties of shrubs producing large red fruit; good for canning, eating fresh or freezing

SASKATOON Amelanchier alnifolia 7/5 ft. 2/1.5 m white

sun 2
Varieties of native shrubs; prolific white spring flowers, followed by large sweet fruit and interesting orange fall foliage

91

gardeners secrets - trees and shrubs
Placement & Planting Tips
Dig a hole twice the size of the root ball.
Remove peat pots since they do not degrade well with
Calgarys short, dry summers.
Root Mass can be increased using Myke Tree and Shrub
Growth Supplement increases the root mass of newly
planted trees and shrubs. Myke Tree and Shrub Growth
Supplement must be applied directly to plant roots. We
recommend using in conjunction with Myke Evergreen
Food Plus Trees & Shrubs 7-3-5.
Watering Tips
Supersaturate the plants roots by placing it in the hole
and filling the hole with water, and then allowing it
recede, before back-filling the hole.
trees and shrubs tips
Feeding Tips
Feed using a high quality tree and shrub fertilizer. Myke
Evergreen Food Plus Trees & Shrubs 7-3-5
Add compost, zeolite and mulch to enrich soil. Sea Soil
is a very effective compost.
Maintenance Tips
Pruning regularly is essential for tree and shrub health.
Corona has a large line of quality tools.
* Spring flowering plants should be pruned after
flowering. Summer flowering plants should be
pruned in the spring before they flower.
Check regularly for disease or pests.
Water trees and shrubs thoroughly right until freeze up
to ensure enough moisture for winter survival.
92

lawns
Both seed and sod are basically a combination of
Kentucky blue grass and fescue grass varieties. These
are combined in different ratios for different conditions.
Fescue is more tolerant to adverse conditions, so for
example, the ratio of fescue in a specialty seed for full
shade would be higher than it would be in an all purpose
mix. Kentucky blue grass needs full sun to thrive. There
are specialty seeds available for the shade, for low
maintenance, and to patch damage left by pets. There
are reasons to use both seed and sod; choose the
option that works best for you.
general preparation for new lawns
1) Topsoil should be at least 6 in. (15 cm) deep. Add
additional topsoil if required.
2) Spread topsoil using landscaping rake, removing
all debris.
3) Establish a grade sloping away from the house.
4) Compact the soil using a garden roller.
seed
Seeding should be done in the spring or fall, not during
hot, mid-summer conditions. Seed is less expensive
than sod, but requires more maintenance.
seeding steps
1) Spread grass seed using a drop spreader at the
amount per square foot indicated on the package.
Different varieties have different ratios.
2) Rake in lightly.
3) Fertilize using a high phosphorous lawn fertilizer
(18-24-12), which encourages root growth. It is
used only on newly seeded grass.
4) Keep area moist for at least two full weeks.
5) Mow when approximately 2.5 in. (7 cm) long. Do
not cut shorter than 2 in. (5 cm) the first year.
sod
Sod is more expensive than seed, but gives you an
instant lawn. Sod is sold in rolls 6x1.5 ft. (2x.5m). Sod
should be kept in a cool place and used within two days
of delivery, so general preparation should be nearly, or
fully completed before delivery.
93
tip: In hot weather, plants in pots may need
watering more than once a day. Sometimes when
it does rain, many pots in sheltered spots, window
boxes and hanging baskets in particular, may not
receive enough water to keep them healthy.
sodding steps
1) Begin laying sod along a straight edge, such as a
sidewalk. Lay full row.
2) Lay the next row offset from the first, like bricks.
3) Trim sod to fit using a sharp knife. A straight edge
is sometimes useful for even cutting.
4) After sod has been laid roll or tamp down the
high spots.
6) Fertilize using a high phosphorous lawn fertilizer
(18-24-12), which encourages root growth. It is
used only on newly planted grass.
7) Keep area moist for at least two full weeks.
8) Mow when approximately 2.5 in. (7 cm) long. Do
not cut shorter than 2 inches (5 cm) the first year.
maintenance
Once your lawn is established it becomes only a matter
of weekly mowing, and watering, and fertilizing a few
times a year. Mow once a week using a sharp blade,
which will make a cleaner cut. During hot, dry conditions
lawns can use up to 1 inch (2.5 cm) of water a week.
Regular weekly watering will create deeper roots, so
that the plants can tolerate drier conditions. Weekly
deep watering is better, for both moisture retention and
grass development, than light daily watering.
fertilizing
Apply a slow release lawn fertilizer with a high proportion
of nitrogen (the first number of three on the package),
such as 21-3-4 in May and again in July. (Slow release
fertilizers last for 6-8 weeks). Winterizing fertilizer can
be applied in late September and will become active
in the early spring when growing conditions begin.
spring lawn maintenance
Rake lawn thoroughly or use a power rake to break up
the thatch. Thatch is interwoven dead grass, which
prevents moisture and nutrients from penetrating into
the soil. Aerate every few years, removing soil plugs.
This allows better moisture and nutrient penetration.
 Name Botanical Name Height/Spread Colour
lawns Comments
Sun or Shade Zone

ornamental grasses
BLUE FESCUE Festuca glauca 12/12 in. 30/30 cm blue
sun or shade 3
Clump forming with fine textured leaves, several varieties

BLUE OAT Helictotrichon sempervirens 36/24 in. 90/60 cm tan

sun 4
Round clumps of intense blue foliage

BULBOUS OAT Arrhenatherum bulbosum 18/12 in. 45/30 cm tan

sun or part shade 3
Clumps of cream and green variegated leaves

FEATHER REED Calamagrostis x acutilora Karl Forester 60/70 in. 120/150 cm green
sun or part shade 3
Narrow, upright wheat like heads, long season of interest

FEATHER REED Calamagrostis x acutilora Overdam 45/60 in. 90/120 cm green

sun or part shade 3
Green and white striped leaves, Winter interest

MOOR GRASS Molina caerulea 30/60 in. 60/75 cm green

sun or part shade 3
Shade tolerant grass, with a fountain like effect

RED SWITCH Panicum virgatum 36/24 in. 90/60 cm white

sun 3
Clumps of narrow green leaves, flowers turn to red seed pods after blooming; orange fall colour

RIBBON Phalaris arundinacea 36/24 in. 90/60 cm white

sun 2
Clumps of fast spreading variegated foliage in a variety of colours, invasive

TUFTED HAIR Deschampsia caespitosa 36/18 in. 90/45 cm various

sun or shade 4
Clumps of green foliage, delicate green flowers eventually cover leaves

gardeners secrets - lawns

Topdress lawns with 2 cm of soil then overseed with McKenzie grass for improved lawn health
and grass density. Scotts Turf Builder is a great top dressing.
94
 water gardens
Water features, such as ponds and fountains,
have become very popular landscape features. An
attractively landscaped pool with fish, water plants,
perhaps a waterfall or fountain, can be a beautiful
addition to your garden.
pond basics
Pond size should be as large as the site and your budget
will allow, if you are planning to include fish or plants.
Larger volumes of water do not change temperature as
quickly. This is especially important when you live in a
climate with extreme temperature changes. Most water
plants and fish do best in a more constant climate.
location
A pond should be in the sun if water plants, especially
lilies, are desired. A pool can look very attractive in a
shady area, but plants that do well in shade should be
chosen. The pond must be level. A waterfall needs a
sloped site with a level pool at the bottom. A waterfall
built up in the middle of a level garden looks out of place
and contrived. Good drainage in the area is essential.
Locate your pond where it can be seen and heard from
both inside your home and sitting areas of your garden.
Be careful not to place a pond where it will be too close
to tree roots now, as they grow.
choosing the pond
Molded ponds come in many sizes and shapes and are
easy to install.
95
Flexible liner gives more variation in size and shape
but is a little more work to install. Recently, lighter but
very durable pond liners have come on the market. You
might want to look into them before you choose.
Cement pools are not practical in our area. Our rapidly
changing weather causes cracks that are expensive
and difficult to repair. Size depends on available space
and your needs. Outline the area it is to go into with a
garden hose or thick rope to visualize it. Most garden
ponds are 18-24 inches deep. By law, in Calgary, a pond
24 inches or deeper requires a 6 foot, lockable fence.
construction of a pond
1) Outline the shape of your pond, dig deeper and
wider than the pond needs and line the bottom
with damp sand, old carpet or layers of newspaper.
2) Place the molded pond so that the edge is at the
surrounding level, or add the flexible liner, pleating
it to fit. Warming the liner in sun for several hours
will make this easier.
3) Fill the pond 1/3 full, easing the pond into position.
Use a level to be sure the pool will be level. A long
board across the pool will make leveling easier.
4) Pack soil firmly around it to the proper depth, secure
edges and cover with a material that looks natural
in your garden - stone, wood, brick, etc. Marginal plants
can soften the edges and create a natural appearance.
Note: A ground-fault interrupter must be on new homes, and is
recommended for older ones, on the outside breaker box.
pumps, sprays, waterfalls
Moving water prevents algae from forming and aerates
the water for fish and plants. Re-circulating pumps keep
water moving for sprays, bubblers, creeks, waterfalls,
etc. An easily removed filter will make it much simpler
to keep it clean.
Note: The water in a pond should be re-circulated at least once
an hour, which means a 450-gallon pond should have at least
a 450 GPH (Gallons Per Hour) pump.
care of ponds
Remove rotting, floating leaves, grass clippings, and
other debris but be careful not to stir up the water.
Some ponds rarely need cleaning and will stabilize after
a few days and become clear, particularly if fish and
plants are present. If there are no plants and fish, the
pond must be cleaned regularly. A little liquid detergent
floating on the surface can be used to eliminate mosquito
larvae, if there are no plants or fish in the pond.
Our water is generally safe for human consumption.
This means that there are a few additives. Not all water
is safe for aquatic life. For this reason, its a good idea to
treat the water using the procedures provided with
pond care kits.
winter maintenance
With Calgarys cold winters, fish and water plants will
not survive outdoors, unless a trough heater is used.
Fish can be kept in an aquarium for the winter. Bring
them inside before the first frost and put them back
outside after danger of any frost. Water plants can be
over-wintered or replaced the next season for variety.
Plants to be stored should be removed from ponds after
first frost. Ensure that the plants root ball is moist and
wrap with burlap or loose plastic bag with some air
circulation. Store the plant in a cool place, about 5
degrees Celsius, until the possibility of frost has passed
and replace in pond.
water plants
Plants add colour and interest to a pond, reduce algae
by shading water, reduce evaporation and release
oxygen, which is used by fish.
Do not use too many plants, however; some open water
should be visible.
water lilies
Water lilies can be grown in ponds for the summer.
Tropical water lilies do not do well here, as they cannot
tolerate our cool nights. Hardy ones thrive, however,
and may be treated as annuals or kept over the winter
indoors. Water lilies must be grown in a sunny spot and
prefer still water, so should not be near the pump,
bubbler, or sprayer.
Plant the lily in a pot with heavy clay soil, cover the
surface with sharp sand or pea gravel and place in not
more than 2 ft. (60 cm) of water. When planting in the
pot, do not cover the crown of the plant with soil.
There is no need for drainage holes in the pot. It is
already under water. Special baskets are available, but
you can use plastic kitchenware, or burlap lined wire
baskets. Special fertilizer tablets are available to put
into the bottom of the container before planting. Water
lilies are heavy fertilizer users.
oxygenators
Oxygenators are the ponds filter system. They use
nitrogen before the algae can use it, and add oxygen
needed by fish. They can be potted, or float with their
roots and stems submerged and flowers above water.
marginal bog plants
Plants at the edge of a pond should look natural, as if
they grew there. The area around a pond is not usually
wet, as a natural bog would be. A trough of PVC around
the pond edge with no drainage, containing dense soil,
can be used but it must be consistently damp and must
be checked regularly. It is easier to use plants which
tolerate drier soil that mimic typical bog plants.
Ornamental grasses and irises look very attractive
around ponds, but they need good drainage.
NOTE: See our website for more details on ponds.
www.greengate.ca
96
 Name Botanical Name
water gardens Comments

water plants
HORNWORT Ceratophyllum demersum
Oxygenator with fine, glossy green leaves; grows completely submerged

WATER HYACINTH Eichhornia crassipes

Glossy heart-shaped leaves with yellow centered blue to purple flowers; spreads rapidly, needs warmth to bloom

WATER LETTUCE Pistia stratiotes

Pale floating heads resemble lettuce; thrives in full sun or shade

WATER LILY Nymphaea varieties

Several varieties of floating plants with brightly colored flowers; leaves form pads; needs sun and warm, still water,
choose only hardy varieties

marginal plants
ARROWHEAD Sagittaria latifolia
Spikes of white flowers, large arrow shaped leaves; grows in 2-6 inches (6-15 cm) of water

CARDINAL FLOWER Lobelia x speciosa

Bright blue or red flower spikes; bog plant

CATTAIL, MINIATURE Typha minima

Purple-brown flower heads on short stalks, familiar bog plant

CREEPING BUTTERCUP Ranunculus aquatilis

Small bright yellow flowers on spreading stems

CREEPING JENNY Lysimachia nummularia

Small round leaves on vine-like plant; profuse bright yellow flowers

IRIS, BLUE/YELLOW FLAG Iris versicolor

Tall plants with well formed flowers; grow in shallow water

97
 Name Botanical Name
water gardens Comments

MARSH MARIGOLD Caltha palustris

A hardy bog plant with early summer golden flowers

PALM, UMBRELLA Cyperus alternifolius

Tall plant with long drooping leaves radiating from center

PICKEREL WEED Pontederia

Spikes of blue flowers on tall stalks with spear-shaped leaves

PARROT FEATHER Myriophyllum aquaticum

Small, lime green, ferny leaves in whorls, easy to grow

RUSH, COMMON Juncus effusus

Round, narrow, grass-like leaves, neat growth habit

SEDGE Carex aquatillis

Grassy arching leaves with brown seed heads

98
 house plants
tip: If you find that your house plants leaf tips are
turning brown it is usually an indication that the air
around them is to dry. Try misting with a sprayer and
dont be afraid of giving them a wipe with a soft cloth
and water.

House plants can brighten and beautify feeding

almost any room.
Greengate can help you select the right plant for the specific
conditions of your home or office, and offer you expert
advice on care. There are two main classifications of
houseplants - foliage plants, which include both
standing and hanging plants, and flowering plants.
Foliage plants are grown, obviously, for their leaf shape,
colour, and often variegation. These plants may flower,
but they are generally grown for their foliage, as their
flowering is not consistent. Flowering houseplants will
flower year after year if given the proper conditions.
Plants need fertilizer only when they are actively
growing, which for most plants is spring until fall.
Winter blooming plants, however, should be fertilized in
the winter. Most plants require only a standard (20-20-
20, or 15-30-15) fertilizer, but there are specialized
fertilizers available to fill the specific requirements of
many plants.
If you have any questions regarding your plants
requirements or care please do not hesitate to ask our
helpful greengate staff.

light
Plants need good quality light, necessary for
photosynthesis. Well-lit rooms suit the largest variety
of houseplants. Rooms with south and west facing
windows often provide the most light, with east and north
facing windows providing the least. During the winter
months plants may benefit from moving to a brighter
location until the suns intensity increases in the spring.
Generally, plant growth slows during winters short days
and most plants dont flower as well or at all. Growth and
flowering resume in the spring, as the days lengthen.

watering
More houseplants die from over watering than anything
else. All plants need water to grow, but the amount of
water required depends on the plant species, the
season, and the indoor conditions present. Many plants
will require their soil be kept moist during the summer
growing period, but will require less water during the
winter months when the plant is dormant. Plants have
different watering requirements. Some plants require
constant moisture, while some benefit from drying out
completely, and others are somewhere in between.
Check to see if the soil has reached the point where the
specific plant needs watering by sticking your finger
into the soil and feeling for moisture. When required,
water plants liberally until a little water escapes through
the drainage holes in the bottom of the pot. Do not let
plants sit in water in a saucer or outer pot.

99
 Name Botanical Name Light
house plants Comments
Watering

standing house plants

AIR PLANT Tillandsia spp. Bright filtered light
Mist frequently with distilled water
Brightly coloured, long lived flowers; leaves absorb moisture from misting

ALOE Aloe spp. Bright direct light

Allow soil to dry completely before watering
Succulent plants with fleshy leaves, many varieties

ARALIA-BALFOUR Polyscias balfouriana Bright indirect light, warm

Allow soil to dry slightly before watering
Grown for its attractive round variegated leaves

ARALIA-FALSE Dizygotheca elegantissima Bright indirect light, warm

Allow soil to dry slightly before watering
Delicate compound leaves with a palm-like shape and unique colour

ARALIA-JAPANESE Fatsia japonica Bright indirect light, cool

Keep soil moist in summer, less so in winter
Bright lobed, fan-like leaves, dark green

ARALIA-MING Polyscias fruticosa Elegans Bright indirect light

Allow soil to dry out slightly before watering
Grown for its twisted stems and delicate foliage

BEGONIA-REX Begonia rex hybrids Bright indirect light, cool

Allow soil to dry somewhat before watering
Heart shaped leaves with rich colours and attractive patterns; small pink flowers in spring

BIRD OF PARADISE Strelitzia reginae Bright direct light

Allow soil to dry before watering
Large leaves on long stalks; large, colourful, orange and blue flowers, in spring

BOUGAINVILLEA Bougainvillea buttiana Direct light

Allow soil to dry out before watering
Climbing plant with woody stems, tiny flowers surrounded by colorful, papery bracts

BROMELIAD various spp. Bright filtered light

Add water to cup at center of plant once/week, water soil every three weeks
Colourful long lasting flowers and variegated leaves

BUNYA-BUNYA Araucaria bidwillii Bright indirect light

Allow soil to dry slightly before watering
Evergreen plant with small, sharp-needled shiny foliage
100
 Name Botanical Name Light
house plants Comments
Watering

CACTUS various spp. Bright direct sunlight

Allow soil to dry completely before watering
Huge family of succulent plants with sharp needles, variously colored flowers possible on some species

CALADIUM Caladium x hybrids Bright indirect light

Keep soil moist; stop watering in fall
Thin heart-shaped, various coloured leaves, plant dies back in the fall; bulb can be saved over winter

CALATHEA Calathea hybrids Filtered or indirect light

Keep moist in the summer, reducing in winter
Colourful, intricately patterned leaves

CAST IRON PLANT Aspidistra elatior Filtered light, cool temperature

Allow soil to dry before watering
Long, leathery, dark green leaves; low light plant

CHINA DOLL Radermachera sinca Bright indirect light

Keep soil moist
Delicate glossy green leaves on slender stems

CHINESE EVERGREEN Aglaonema commutatum Filtered or indirect light

Allow soil to dry before watering
Clusters of variegated, lance-shaped leaves

CITRUS Citrus spp. Bright direct sunlight

Allow soil to dry almost completely before watering
Glossy green leaves with fragrant spring flowers; small fruit. Water a little less during the winter

CROTON Codiaeum variegatum pictum Bright indirect light

Keep soil moist
Long variegated leaves in various colours and shapes

DIEFFENBACHIA Dieffenbachia spp. Filtered or indirect light

Allow soil to dry before watering
Variegated leaves with an oblong shape, quilted texture; sap is toxic

DRACAENA Dracaena hybrids Indirect light, warm

Allow soil to dry before watering
Long lance-shaped leaves on either shrub or tree form plants

FERN spp. and hybrids Filtered light

Keep soil moist
Many varieties of shade tolerant, moisture loving plants with a delicate foliage

FIG-FIDDLE LEAF Ficus lyrata Filtered or indirect light

Allow soil to dry somewhat before watering
Tree or shrub form with large lobed, fiddle-shaped leaves
101
 Name Botanical Name Light
house plants Comments
Watering

FIG-WEEPING Ficus benjamina Filtered or indirect light

Allow soil to dry half way down pot before watering
Evergreen plant with slender, wavy green foliage; some leaf drop periodically is normal

FLAMINGO FLOWER Anthurium spp. Bright filtered light

Keep soil moist
Oval-shaped leathery leaves with long lasting pink or red bracts

HOMALOMENA Homalomena wallisii Filtered or indirect light

Allow soil to dry completely before watering
Large heart-shaped, waxy green leaves on long stems

JADE PLANT Crassula argentea Bright direct light

Allow soil to dry completely before watering
Succulent plant with thick branching stems

KAFFIR LILY Clivia miniata Bright filtered light

Keep soil moist in summer; winter dry, cool
Narrow glossy leaves, orange flowers from April to June

LAUREL-INDIAN Ficus microcarpa nitida Filtered or indirect light

Allow soil to dry before watering
Upright growth habit with long, smooth oval-shaped leaves

MONSTERA Monstera deliciosa Indirect or filtered light

Allow soil to dry before watering
Large tropical vine with large, splitting, heart-shaped leaves. This plant is no longer classified as philodendron

OLEANDER Nerium oleander Bright direct light

Keep soil moist in spring and summer
Slender leathery leaves, fragrant flowers in many colors; POISONOUS

PALM Palm spp. Bright indirect light

Soil moisture depends on species
Many varieties of tree-form plants with feathery leaves

PEACE LILY Spathiphyllum Mauna Loa Indirect light

Allow soil to dry somewhat before watering
White spathe forms from long stem with lance-shaped leaves

PEPEROMIA Peperomia spp. Bright indirect light

Allow soil to dry before watering
Several varieties of succulent plants with attractive foliage and trailing or compact growth habits

PHILODENDRON Philodendron spp. Indirect or filtered light

Allow soil to dry before watering
Heart shaped leaves in either tree or vine form
102
 Name Botanical Name Light
house plants Comments
Watering

PINE-BUDDHIST Podocarpus macrophyllus Bright filtered light

Keep soil moist
Evergreen plant with dense, dark green needle-like foliage

PINE-FERN Podocarpus gracilior Bright filtered light

Keep soil moist
Evergreen plant with fine drooping foliage

PINE-NORFOLK ISLAND Araucaria heterophylla Bright indirect light, cool

Keep soil moist
Evergreen plant with soft, over lapping, tiered foliage

POLKA DOT PLANT Hypoestes phyllostachya Bright filtered light

Keep soil moist
Soft, bright green foliage with red or white speckles

RUBBER PLANT Ficus elastica Low-direct light

Allow soil to dry before watering
Large glossy green or burgundy leaves with ivory ribbing

SCHEFFLERA Schefflera spp. Bright indirect light

Allow soil to dry before watering
Tree or shrub form with long stems supporting 6-8 large glossy leaves

SENSITIVE PLANT Mimosa pudica Bright direct light

Keep soil moist
Compound lacy leaves that close when touched. Do not touch constantly, as it stresses the plant

SNAKE PLANT Sansevieria trifasciata Indirect light

Allow soil to dry completely before watering
Hardy, durable plant with sword-shaped, leathery dark green leaves, some with yellow or cream edges

TI PLANT Cordyline terminalis Filtered/indirect light

Allow soil to dry before watering
Sword-shaped leaves with red variegation

VENUS FLY TRAP Dionaea muscipula Bright indirect light

Keep moss moist with distilled water
Carnivorous plant that feeds on insects; attractive foliage and red traps

YUCCA Yucca elephantipes Bright direct sunlight

Allow soil to dry completely before watering
Sword-shaped leaves; very durable plant

103
 Name Botanical Name Light
house plants Comments
Watering

flowering house plants

AFRICAN VIOLET Saintpaulia ionantha Bright filtered light
Allow soil to dry out before watering
Many varieties available in many colours; single or double flowers

AZALEA Rhododendron spp. Bright filtered light

Keep soil moist
Many varieties of woody plants with a large selection of flower shapes & colours; winter & spring flowers

BEGONIA Begonia spp. Bright indirect sunlight

Allow soil to dry somewhat before watering
Many colours of flowers on long stems, with various colours of attractive foliage

BIRD OF PARADISE Strelitzia reginae Bright direct light

Allow soil to dry before watering
Large leaves on long stalks; large, colourful, orange and blue flowers, in spring

BOUGAINVILLEA Bougainvillea buttiana Direct light

Allow soil to dry out before watering.
Climbing plant with woody stems, tiny flowers are surrounded by colorful, papery bracts

CINERARIA Senecio cruentus hybrids Bright indirect light

Keep soil moist
Many forms of daisy-like flowers with a large choice of colours; winter blooming

CYCLAMEN Cyclamen persicum Bright indirect light

Keep soil moist
Many varieties of graceful flowers in a variety of forms and colours; winter blooming

FLAME OF THE WOODS Ixora coccinea Bright indirect light

Keep soil moist
Flaming red tubular flowers above glossy oval leaves, summer flowers

FLOWERING MAPLE Abutilon hybrids Bright indirect light

Keep soil moist
Papery, lantern-shaped flowers available in various colours; maple-like leaves

GARDENIA Gardenia jasminoides Bright indirect light

Keep soil moist
Glossy green leaves and sweet scented white flowers; semi-double or double flowers

GERBERA DAISY Gerbera jamesonii Bright indirect light

Allow soil to dry out before watering
Large multipetaled flowers, on long stems, in a wide variety of colours
104
 Name Botanical Name Light
house plants Comments
Watering

GLOXINIA Sinningia speciosa Bright indirect light

Keep soil moist
Long stemmed, velvety foliage with various bell-shaped flowers in several colours

HIBISCUS Hibiscus rosa-sinensis Bright direct light

Keep soil moist
Large funnel-shaped flowers, available in many colours, in spring and summer

HYDRANGEA Hydrangea macrophylla Bright indirect light

Keep soil moist
Clusters of brightly coloured pink, white or blue flowers

JASMINE Jasmine spp. Bright direct light

Allow soil to dry out before watering
Small leaves and fragrant white flowers; trailing growth habit, can be trained as climber

KALANCHOE Kalanchoe blossfeldiana Bright direct light

Allow soil to dry out before watering
Clusters of long-lasting orange, pink or red flowers; succulent plant with fleshy leaves

LILY-CALLA Zantedeschia aethiopica Bright filtered light

Keep soil moist
Large arrow-shaped leaves; trumpet shaped white flowers appear in spring and fall

LILY-HYBRIDS Lilium hybrids Bright indirect light

Keep soil moist
Trumpet-shaped flower appears in spring or summer; can re-plant outside after bloom period, will bloom following year

MUM-POT Chrysanthemum morifolium Bright indirect light

Keep soil moist
Various colours of long blooming daisy-like flowers; available in several flower forms

ORCHIDS orchid spp. Bright filtered light

Allow potting medium to dry out before watering
Long graceful stems, single flowers, or flower cluster, or many small flowers along the stem

PERSIAN VIOLET Exacum affine Bright indirect light

Keep soil moist
Purple fragrant flowers; delicate plant, avoid drafts

POINSETTIA Euphorbia pulcherrima Indirect light

Allow soil to dry out before watering
Compact shrub with bright green leaves; colourful floral bracts in pink, red, or white

PRIMROSE Primula species Bright indirect light

Keep soil moist
Several varieties with clusters of bright, flowers in various colours, in early spring
105
 Name Botanical Name Light
house plants Comments
Watering

PRIMROSE-CAPE Streptocarpus spp. Bright filtered light

Allow soil to dry out between waterings
Almost continuous purple, pink or white trumpet-shaped flowers; long lived flowers

ROSE-MINIATURE Rosa chinensis Bright direct light

Keep soil moist
Many colours of this miniature single or double flower

gardeners secrets - house plants

Place plants in a spot that is appropriate for that plant, i.e.: direct, indirect, low light conditions.
Reduce watering during winter. This will reduce the chances of fungus gnats.

Feed house plants regularly using a good multipurpose fertilizer, Schultz 10-15-10 Liquid Plant
Food is a gardeners favourite.

Transplant up only one pot size. This reduces the chances of overwatering.

Use a water meter to take the guess work out of watering. A quality water meter will have a
general watering chart as a guide on the back.

106
 orchids
Grown for their beautiful and long lasting
flowers, orchids have long been considered the domain
of the expert gardener. This, however, is not necessarily
the case. There are many varieties of these exotic
plants that can be grown quite easily at home, given the
right conditions. Usually they need no more care than
you would give an ordinary house plant, although there
are exceptions.
There are two main types of orchids, epiphytic and
terrestrial. Epiphytic orchids are the type grown most
often as a houseplant; they grow naturally in trees and
on rocks. In addition to having roots at the base,
epiphytic orchids have aerial roots and require a
special orchid container for proper growing conditions.
Terrestrial orchids have their roots wholly underground
and are less common as houseplants.
temperature
There are three basic temperature groups, warm 18-24
degrees Celsius, intermediate 16-18 degrees Celsius,
and cool 10-16 degrees Celsius. These are nighttime
temperatures and daytime temperatures are generally
about 10 degrees higher. Select an orchid that fits best
into the category that your home falls into.
air circulation
Air circulation is very important for orchid growth. In
their natural home they are exposed to the winds. If
there is a lack of air movement the plants do not do as
well as if the air is circulating. Near a window or door, or
in a safe but a high traffic area in your house is ideal.

When selecting an orchid there are a few factors that

you should consider. First you should decide what
variety of orchid you prefer. There are many flower
shapes, sizes and colours. Many people also consider
when the flowering period occurs when selecting a
variety, often for certain events or holidays. The second
consideration is the area in which you would like the
orchid to grow. Light, temperature and air circulation
are all-important factors to consider. Lastly, what level
of care do you want to provide? Orchid care ranges from
simple and undemanding to complicated and finicky.
Greengate has a superior selection of orchids and our
experienced staff can help you with plant selection,
requirements, fertilization or even a pot.

light
Orchids are tropical plants, so there is no way our
climate can match the amount of sunlight available to
orchids in their natural setting. Orchids, like most other
living things, however, can adapt. Some orchids need
the maximum amount of sunlight available. This may
involve changing locations at various times of the year
for maximum light. Artificial lighting may be added
during winter months if necessary.

107
soil
Normal potting soil is not suitable for orchids. With air
circulation being so important, orchid bark mixtures
contain large particles that allow greater air circulation
to the roots than would be possible with potting soil.
watering
The amount of water an orchid needs will depend on its
variety; some require much more water than others.
Orchids should be watered when they are almost dry.
Water well, so that the potting mixture is saturated. A
good way to test the dryness of a plant is by weight.
Test the weight before and after watering and by feel
you should be able to estimate when the plant will
again need water.
humidity
High humidity will increase the quality and length of an
orchids bloom. The easiest way to increase humidity
around a plant is to place the plants pot on gravel in
a tray of water. The pot is not sitting in the water, but the
moisture can evaporate into the air around the plant
where it can be utilized by the plant. Another simple
way is grouping several plants together. A humid
microclimate is created.
fertilizing
There are several varieties of orchid fertilizer available
for different stages of the orchid growth cycle. Check
with your greengate expert for the growth cycle of your
particular orchid. In time, with experimentation, you will
learn to anticipate your orchids needs and adjust
fertilization accordingly.
In nature, orchids follow the climate patterns of the area
that they are growing in, flowering at the same time
every year. When kept as a houseplant, however, there
are factors that the grower may alter to promote
flowering. Increasing the level of light available to the
plant by changing location or providing additional light
can stimulate the plant to flower. A temperature change
can also sometimes signal the start of flowering to the
plant. Changing the fertilizing program can also
sometimes produce the same effect.
Orchids should be fun to grow as well as attractive.
Experimenting with these exotic plants can be a very
rewarding, learning experience. There are many exotic
orchids that none but the experienced could grow, but
there are also several very easy ones:
Cattleya orchids have the large flowers that are
often used for corsages. They come in many colors and
several sizes. Older varieties bloomed once a year, but
newer hybrids bloom several times a year. Cattleyas
require a bright window and watering when quite dry in
the summer, and very little water but bright light during
the winter dormant period.
Cymbidium orchids have grass-like leaves and the
flowers grow on a tall spike in the winter and early
spring. They like a sunny, warm place in the summer
and can grow outdoors in a container. In the fall they
should be left outdoors until they have had a degree or
two of frost, as the difference in temperature between
night and day is what stimulates blooming.
Dendrobium orchids have clusters of smaller,
long-lasting flowers on long stalks in spring or summer.
They need a dormant period in the fall and winter, with
little water but direct sun, until new flower buds form. In
spring and summer they need a moist growing medium
and good drainage.
Phalaenopsis (moth) orchids are the easiest of
them all. They like a warm, humid atmosphere, which is
not exactly what our homes are in the winter, but seem
to adapt to less than the best conditions and bloom for
a long time several times a year. When all the flowers
have died, do not remove the stem. It could grow more
flower buds on the same stem. When the stem turns
yellow, remove it and a new stem will grow.
108
 bonsai
Bonsai literally means "plant grown in a pot".
The ancient Chinese grew plants in containers for religious,
medicinal and decorative use. By 600 A.D., miniature
copies of actual landscapes became popular, and single
trees such as maples, cypress, pines, and bamboo
were being grown in pots. At this time, Buddhism was
introduced in Japan, and the Chinese monks brought
bonsai with them as well as their religion. They were
introduced to the Japanese Imperial Court in the eighth
century. At first, they were often natural shapes, later
they were shaped and pruned in the way of modern
bonsai. By the mid 1800s, they were being exported to
the Western world, and in 1873, declared to be Japans
national art.
Today, they are a way of keeping a miniature tree in a pot,
shaped and pruned to resemble a very old, native tree.
We, too, appreciate the various styles that indicate their
character. A formal upright might remind us of a stately
oak or spruce tree, and an informal upright has curves
in the trunk but still retains its vertical appearance.
Windswept style would have many examples in our
country! Cascade bonsai are seen as dwarfed trees on
a hillside, cliff or shore, where the branches grow
downward to escape harsh weather. They might be
represented by juniper, English ivy or cotoneaster.
Several smaller trees of the same species in a shallow
container could be a forest, with the taller trees at the
front and smaller ones at the back to give a feeling of
depth. Small pebbles and pieces of driftwood enhance
the feeling of a forest floor. Small birch seedlings or
weeping fig are possible choices to try.
Bonsai pots are generally shallow and the length is
approximately the height of the plant. The tree is often
planted in one of the outer thirds, and a longer, lower
branch extends toward the unplanted two-thirds.
Cascade bonsai are planted in deep, narrow pots so
descending branches are above the base. Colour is
personal taste, but most often flat finish, neutral colours
are used for evergreens and flat or shiny ones,
sometimes in brighter colours, are used for deciduous
and flowering plants. Be sure that the pot isnt more
obvious than the plant is.
109
Pruning is done to create an image of an old tree, and to
keep it the size we want it to be. Plants lose their oldest
needles and leaves in the center and at the bottom, as
they grow older, so removing these indicates age. Each
branch must have a space to be in; crossing branches
and those too close together are eliminated. A front is
selected for the tree, and no branch should grow directly
toward the viewer. Bonsai are not normally moved to
larger pots, but root pruned to eliminate older, thick
roots and allow smaller roots that absorb moisture
room to grow. Remember that if we remove a third of the
branches, we should remove a third of the roots - they
need to be in balance. Surface roots indicate age as well,
so the roots are often planted so they can be seen.
Any plant that has a trunk and branches that can be
pruned can be used to make bonsai. Tropical plants are
the easiest to grow in our area, as they do well in our
homes over the winter. An azalea is an excellent one to
try, as it tolerates pruning well and develops a woody
trunk quickly.
Others such as weeping fig, fuchsia, ivy and bougainvillea,
are worth trying. Deciduous outdoor trees as shrubs,
such as elm, apple, birch, spirea, and potentilla, lose their
leaves in the fall, so need a cool place for the winter but
dont need light when they dont have leaves. They can
do well in a cool basement or on a windowsill close to,
but not touching, a cool window. Evergreens are much
more difficult to keep over the winter! They need to be
cold but above freezing, and as high humidity as
possible. A garage or greenhouse heated to just above
freezing works well but isnt easy to come by.
A bonsai should remind you of an old tree in a garden,
forest or on the side of a mountain. Enjoy it and
appreciate the culture that developed it, but be open to
new ideas as well. The Japanese use Japanese cherry
trees and maples because that is what grows there.
Nanking cherries and Amur maples make wonderful bonsai
and are freely available in our area. Enjoy the discovery
and the journey as well as the destination, as it will never
be finished. That is what makes Bonsai so fascinating.
 bog gardening
A bog garden can be a great addition to any beginning. Now the only thing left is the selection of
plants to grow in your bog!
garden! While most of us do not have a moist spot in our
landscapes, building this type garden will allow you to by John Duncan
grow moisture-loving plants. Most of the plants suitable Horticulturist,
for bog gardens come from marshy, wet places. Greenhouse Manager; greengate garden centres
Traditionally when people grew this type of plant in their
existing landscapes, it was required to keep them in the
shade and water several times daily to keep them from
wilting. By cultivating these same plants in a bog, it is
now possible for them to be grown in the sun.

The ideal location for a bog is in conjunction with a pond

as most bog plants live near water in their native
environment. However, a stand alone section of your
landscape will also work. Bog plants thrive with exposure
to full sun but will survive in nearly any area. Once
placement is determined, select the size and shape of
bog that best suits your space. From personal experience
I have found that bigger is better as it accommodates
the size of these plants as they mature and holds more
water for a longer period of time. Once the spot is
selected, begin excavating 45cm (18) to 75cm (30)
deep. Digging the hole is the hardest part of the project
and once complete you will be left with a sizable pile of
soil that can be used elsewhere in your yard. Following
excavation, line the hole with a plastic sheet or pond
liner at least 8mm thick. One continuous sheet is
preferable as smaller overlapping sheets will not hold readily available plants
the water effectively. Cut drainage holes 2.5cm (1) in suitable for a bog
diameter and 30cm (12) apart around the liner 20cm Eupatorium Joe-Pye weed zone 3-8
(8) from the top. The drainage holes allow the excess Angelica zone 4-8
water at the surface to drain away from the plants Sagittara Arrowhead zone 3-8
crowns so they are not left rotting in the standing water. Houttuynia Chameleon Plant zone 4-8
Aruncus Goats Beard zone 2-8
Fill your bog with soil. The bottom layer should be of Equisetum Horsetail zone 3-8
good quality topsoil 20cm (8) deep followed by 20cm Ligularia zone 2-8
(8) of well-rotted manure with a small amount of bone Lobelia Cardinal Flower zone 4-8
meal added. Mix slightly with the top soil below. Top the Caltha Marsh Marigold zone 2-8
rest of the bog with peat moss making sure to put extra Astrantha Masterwort zone 4-8
peat in as it will settle substantially when wet. Fill the Filipendula Meadowsweet zone 3-8
bog with water making sure that the all the soil is Mimulus Monkey Flower Annual
thoroughly saturated. Be patient. This may take some Rheum Ornamental Rhubarb zone 3-8
time depending on how dry the soils were at the Rodgersia zone 4-8

110
 maintenance

111
 fertilizing

simply fertilizer
Fertilizing is not as complicated as people make it out
to be. All fertilizer comes with three numbers on the
package. These numbers are always in the same order
and refer to the ratio of the three major nutrients that
plants need to flourish. These nutrients, in order, are
nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium.

The first number is nitrogen, which stimulates leaf

growth. Plants need nitrogen to produce the chlorophyll,
enzymes and proteins required for plant cells to
strengthen and reproduce. Lawn fertilizer contains a
high percentage of nitrogen. Since the part of lawn that
we see is actually made up of leaves this is very
important to a healthy lawn.

Phosphorus is the second number in the sequence. It

stimulates root growth in plants. This is very useful
when transplanting seedlings outdoors. Plants need to
establish roots in order to ensure their survival. This is
especially necessary for perennial plants and shrubs
that need to survive the winter.

The last number is potassium, which builds cell

strength, and ensures plant vigor, disease resistance
and improves winter hardiness. It is essential for the
production of plant tissues and the quality and colour of
flowers and fruits.

Fertilizers indicate their uses quite accurately on their

labels, and there are general and specialty formulas for
every use. If you have a plant problem and feel it might
be related to fertilization, remember what the numbers
mean and experiment, or ask your greengate expert,
who will be happy to help.

112
 composting
With Calgary's growth, landfill has become an
issue and much of what we throw into the garbage, in
the form of kitchen and yard waste, can be turned into
useful compost. Along with easing Calgarys landfill
burden, compost is a natural slow-release fertilizer
which, when dug into the garden, returns nutrients to
the soil in the form of phosphorus, potassium, and
nitrogen, along with many others. Compost adds fiber
to our clay soil, improving drainage and allowing oxygen
into the soil. It can also be used as mulch for moisture
retention, as well as a lawn dressing. Composting is great
for the environment and beneficial for the garden. Finished
compost will be rich, black, and almost sweet smelling,
with a coarse and crumbly texture.
composters
Simple composting consists of piling up leaves, grass
clippings and other garden waste, along with the
vegetable matter from your kitchen garbage and
allowing them to decompose. Containers can be
purchased, or constructed out of wire mesh, or with
wood slats, that allow air circulation. Air circulation is
crucial to the decomposition process. Containers
should have lids and also a simple way to remove the
compost from the bin.
Depending on the volume of your garden waste, you
may find the three-container system to be beneficial. In
the three-container system new material is stored in
the first container, decomposing material is stored in
the second container, and compost is stored in the
third. As the material goes though the stages of
decomposition, material is forked from one bin to the
113
tip: Build up your soil with leaves, grass clippings
and other yard debris. Doing this will turn your
average soil into black gold, where virtually anything
will thrive with less need to water.
next in the progression until it emerges as compost. It
takes about a year for usable compost to be formed; with
this system you should always have compost for using
the garden. Composters can be placed on bare ground
or raised on a 2x4 frame for ease of drainage. They
can be in sun or shade. The warmer it is, the faster it
decomposes, as long as it is always moist. If it is in the
shade, it will simply take longer to decompose.
types of compostable materials
There are two types of materials that can be composted,
green materials and brown materials. Green materials
are nitrogen rich, often kitchen waste such as coffee
grounds, tea bags, fruit and vegetable waste, along with
green plants and fresh grass clippings. These materials
can be stored in a closed container under the sink, for
later transfer to the composter. Brown materials are
usually dry and carbon rich, such as dried leaves, dried
grass clippings, twigs, and sawdust. Brown and green
material should ideally be combined at a ratio of 20
parts brown to 1 part green. This is not an exact science,
however, and gardeners should not concern themselves
with the exact ratio.
maintenance
Once your composter is in place and contains
compostable material decomposition will begin and you
can let nature take its course, or use a high nitrogen
commercial activator. Natural activators such as coffee
grounds and tea leaves, and bone and blood meal can
also be used.
Turning or lifting the pile is essential to decomposition.
Turning speeds up composting by allowing oxygen into
it. If it isnt turned over, bacteria and fungi would use up
all the oxygen quite quickly, no heat can be produced,
and the pile cools, slowing decomposition. Piles should
be turned once a week for best results.
Wet the composting contents when necessary until damp,
but not soaked. An unpleasant smelling composter is
usually too wet. Turn the pile to improve air circulation
and increase the amount of brown material to absorb
moisture, until the desired moistness is acquired.

gardeners secrets - fertilizing tips
Aerate the soil with the mineral Zeolite, which helps to
promote the slower release of nutrients and also helps
to break up clay.
Stop using fertilizer around August 1st to prepare
perennial plants for their winter dormancy.
Slow-release fertilizer with a 3-4 month release rate is
recommended for perennial plants, Plant Prod Smart
Cote Feed & Forget - Perennial Fertilizer 12-12-12 is a
excellent option, when applied in May, it should last the
entire growing season.
Feed tomatoes a high calcium fertilizer, such as Myke
Tomato Food 5-6-8 plus Calcium, and water consistently
to prevent Blossom End Rot.
gardeners secrets - composting tips
Layer green waste, grass clippings and appropriate
kitchen waste, with brown waste, such as dried leaves.
Turn compost regularly. It is a good idea to turn the
compost whenever you add new material. A compost
turner is a worthwhile investment.
fertilizing
Root Mass of newly planted trees and shrubs can be
increased by using Myke Tree and Shrub Growth
Supplement. We recommend using in conjunction with
Myke Evergreen Food Plus Trees & Shrubs 7-3-5.
Bone meal should be added when planting bulbs,
tubers, and rhizomes for nutrients. GroundsKeepers
Pride produces an excellent bone meal.
Fertilize hanging baskets and containers using a
controlled release fertilizer like Plant-Prod Smart Cote -
Hanging Basket 14-14-14.
Iron Chelate added to the soil helps to reduce the
yellowing of leaves in roses. Plant-Prod Iron Chelate 7%
is a great choice.
Myke Vegetable Supplement will increase production of
your vegetable plants. Use when seeding and planting.
Myke MUST touch the seeds / roots.
Smaller material composts faster. If like you can cut
your waste material into smaller pieces.
Even moisture is important, the entire pile should be
damp but not wet.
Compost can be used for mulching.
114
 pruning tip: Prune spring-flowering shrubs that are over
three years old once they have finished flowering.

pruning trees & shrubs

Pruning is done to remove diseased or dead

wood, to eliminate crossing branches, to make some
evergreens bushier and to shape unruly trees. If done
well, it enhances the appearance and health of the tree;
if done badly, it can introduce infections and shorten
the trees life. It isnt, however, difficult to learn how to
prune well. Pruning is actually quite satisfying and
interesting. Creating a shape for a tree that is pleasing
and natural can be a work of art.

Every branch needs a place to be. If a branch is close to,

or already touching or crossing another, it will get worse
as it grows. Removing or shortening one or both will
create needed space. It also allows air circulation and
sunlight, both necessary for leaf growth, to enter the
inside of the tree. Dead branches are a potential place
for disease to grow, and are best removed. Already
diseased branches must be removed if the problem is
not to spread to the rest of the tree and possibly
neighboring ones, as diseases can spread by insects
and wind.

There are a few easy rules for pruning. A branch to be

removed completely, or back to a much larger branch,
is cut at the outside of the collar, a wrinkled area where
it joins the trunk. A branch that is to be shortened is cut
just beyond a smaller branch, which will be at the end,
and at the angle of that branch. A few years after
purchasing a young tree, it is a good idea to evaluate
the trees structure and create a backbone for future
growth. Look at the tree from several directions, before
it leafs out in the spring, and prune to allow each branch
future branch space, and shorten to a practical size and
natural shape of that tree. A tree should never look
pruned after you are finished, simply tidier and nicely
shaped. If this is repeated periodically, the tree will rarely
need drastic pruning.

115

Most deciduous trees and shrubs are pruned in the
spring, before they leaf out. Exceptions are birch and
maple, which are pruned in July, after rapid spring
growth finishes. They will drip copious amounts of sap
if pruned in the spring. Shrubs that flower in the spring
on buds that are formed in the fall, such as Nanking
cherry, lilac, some roses, and white flowering spireas,
are pruned after they bloom. Shrubs that flower in the
summer, such as pink flowering spireas, most shrub
roses, and potentilla, are pruned when green buds
appear. Any winter tip kill is removed and branches
trimmed to an appropriate size and shape. Pine trees
and shrubs have new growth called candles that are
snapped in half in June to make a somewhat bushier
appearance and compact shape. Spruce trees are rarely
pruned, although many people remove a few of the
lower branches when most of the needles have died.
Junipers and cedars may be sheared a little, but
remember not to remove too many new needles.
Pruning shears are used for small cuts and should be
sharpened frequently enough to make clean cuts.
Somewhat larger branches may be removed with
lopping shears, or a saw. If a large branch is to be
removed completely, make an upwards cut a foot or so
beyond the trunk, half way through the branch. Then
cut downwards further away from that cut. The branch
will break off when it is being cut downwards, and
default to the upwards cut, but not damage the trunk.
The final cut can be made without ripping bark off the
tree as it falls.
Keep pruning tools clean and sharp. If the tree is
diseased, clean after every cut by dipping into a solution
of one part bleach to ten parts water. If you
are not sure how to prune your tree or the size of the
job, call a certified arborist.
pruning
tip: Trees are so often planted in the wrong
places, with little or no thought to mature size,
that the answer seems to be to prune it to
keep it small. This is a short term, frustrating
solution that ultimately doesnt work. Trees
are genetically programmed to reach a certain
adult size. Removing a large proportion of the
branches means that the tree has fewer places
to put needles or leaves that are necessary for
photosynthesis. The roots absorb water and
nutrients from the soil, but there arent enough
leaves or needles to absorb sunlight, which the
plant needs for survival. Often, it is better to
replace a tree that is outgrowing its space with
a more appropriate tree.
Spruce trees are a perfect example of this. Those
cute little trees that look so perfect in a flower
bed will grow to twelve feet wide and thirty-five
feet high! The needles on the inside of the tree
die every fall. This is a natural occurrence and
not an indication of poor health. Each spring, new
needles grow on the tips of the branches. If these
are removed, as the oldest needles die, the tree
will resemble a telephone pole with green needles
only on the ends of the branches. If a branch
doesnt have enough needles, it will begin to die.
116
 fall maint
enance
gardeners secrets - fall maintenance
Tidy beds in preparation for next season.
Mulch perennials, but not until after the first heavy frost
to discourage pests and rodents. Beats Peat makes an
excellent fall mulch.
gardeners secrets - eco pest management
Aphids can be greatly reduced by encouraging
chickadees to stick around with birdseed or suete in the
winter since their main diet is aphid egg cases.
Produced in Canada, Sun Country Farms makes several
great mixes. Lady Bugs are also very effective and
available for sale at greengate.
Deer & squirrels can be repelled by adding blood meal
to soil. GroundsKeepers Pride is a good choice.
Ants can be controlled without chemicals, for the safety
of pets and children. A good option is ChemFree
Incectigone Ant Killer that uses Diatomaceous Earth.
117
Staking a wind barrier around frost sensitive trees, like
Maydays or Mountain ash, can reduce winter damage.
Burlap staked around the tree perimeter is effective.
Do not wrap burlap directly on the tree as it will suffer in
higher temperatures.
Water plants continuously through the fall right up to
freeze up.
Weeds can be suppressed by using a selective herbicide
that is more safe for children and pets, such as Scotts
EcoSense Weed B Gone, which uses the mineral Iron as
its active ingredient.
Slugs can be baited with a eco-friendly slug and snail
bait which is not harmful to pets, birds, and other
wildlife. Scotts EcoSense Slug B Gone is an effective
option that uses the compound ferric phosphate as its
active ingredient. This compound is commonly found in
soils.
tip: Get on top of pests and diseases as soon as
they are noticed.
integrated pest management
Integrated Pest Management is a way of keeping pests
and disease under control in our gardens, public areas,
parks and recreation areas. Most important is learning
what measures are practical to accomplish this. It his
does not mean killing everything we dont want or think
we shouldnt have. The City of Calgary Parks Department
helps us understand why pest problems occur and how
their natural enemies are being preserved.
It is easier to reach for an insecticide, a weed killer or a
possible answer for a disease than it is to decide how
necessary it might be. With chemical controls used
much less often and a better understanding of why and
how pest controls can be used safely, our environment
is now much safer for us and the wildlife that inhabit it.
There are much safer alternatives to the older, most
toxic pesticides of the past. Read labels!
New insecticides are available in which elements more
toxic to people have been removed and those less
harmful to people are retained. They are gradually
becoming accepted. Others notice that some indicate
on a label that they are safe after one day - fine if you
use it on day two, but not so reassuring if you are doing
the spraying. Many insects and small animals are
considered harmful if they are abundant, yet they are
the food of those higher in the food chain. Those in the
larval stage can look odd or scary but will soon become
moths or butterflies - quite harmless. Perhaps, over
time, we will recognize that our park and green spaces
do not have to be picture perfect but able to tolerate
the natural enemies of pests.
insects & weeds
gardensense weeds
A weed is a plant in the wrong place. It can be invasive
or merely a nuisance. Most plants we call weeds are
native to our prairies and survive well here. Some have
been accidentally imported from other areas or
countries, and grow too well in ours. Some are attractive
and easy enough to pull out that they can be controlled
and others must be eradicated regularly so we wont
become overwhelmed.
Some well known garden plants, such as Shasta daisy,
resemble the native Ox-eye daisy, which can spread
very quickly by seed and underground horizontal
stems. The native one is considered a noxious weed and
the other a garden perennial.
Creeping bell flower may produce up to 3,000 seeds in
one year - no wonder there were so many of them, until
they were declared illegal within the city. Field bindweed
is very hardy - it has roots to 5 to 6 metres deep! The
seed can survive for 20 to 30 years in the soil, which
makes it difficult to eliminate by digging.
Some weeds, such a dandelions, can be easily dug out
of lawns with a dandelion digger. There are broad-leafed
weed killers that will kill weeds on contact that but do
not harm the grass. Unfortunately, they cant tell the
difference between annual and perennial flowers, or
weeds. Read the label carefully. There are also non-
selective weed killers that kill everything green and
growing that they touch. They are very useful, but be
careful that you dont mistakenly kill plants you enjoy.
You can paint the leaves of plants you want to kill with
a non-selective weed killer, using a small paintbrush,
but be careful that it doesnt drip onto other plants or
grass. Beware of companies that want to spray your
grass with weed killer several times a year. There is no
point in spraying the grass with weed killer unless there
are weeds to kill.
tip: greengate is now a voluntary member of the
City of Calgary invasive-free retailer certification
program. As such, greengate will not sell plants
that are deemed invasive by the City of Calgary and
province of Alberta by complying with the Alberta
Weed Control Act. This act identifies noxious weeds
and limits their distribution in Alberta.
118
 repotting
When a houseplant s' roots outgrow the container
it is presently in, it is time to repot and greengate has a
great selection of containers in every size. There are
signs that a plant has outgrown its pot, such as roots
covering the surface of the soil, and/or emerging from
the drainage holes in the bottom of the pot. If a plant
appears to have outgrown its container, turn the plant
out of its pot. If soil falls away from the root-ball there is
no need for repotting. Replace the plant and soil into its
container and firm in. If, however, the root-ball stays
intact and the soil appears full of roots, it is time to
repot. Plants should be moved into a pot with good
drainage just one size larger than their current one.
Moving to a much larger pot may cause moisture
retention problems. The best time of the year to repot a
plant is the beginning of its growth period, which is
spring for most plants.
119
repotting steps
1) Remove the plant from its current container.
2) Put a small amount of potting soil at the bottom of the
container to be planted. A large drainage hole may
be screened to prevent soil from falling into saucer.
3) Place plant in container and adjust the level of soil
at the bottom of the pot to bring the plant to the
proper level, about 3/4 inch (2 cm) from the top.
4) Fill in the space between the plant and the container
wall with soil. Press down firmly. Sand may be added
to mix for cactus or succulents, for better drainage.
5) Water well.
Propagation is an enjoyable and interesting way to
increase your stock of houseplants. Greengate offers a
large selection of containers, soils, rooting hormones
and fertilizers for all of your plant propagation needs.
There are four basic ways that propagation can be
accomplished: stem cuttings, division, offsets, and air
layering. Each method is useful for plants with certain
growth habits and requirements.
stem cuttings
Stem cuttings are the simplest way to propagate new
plants. Plants that have long stems or side shoots are ideal
for this method. Geraniums and ivy are rooted this way.
stem cutting steps
1) Make a cutting from a young non-flowering stem
or side stem. Cut just below a leaf.
2) Cut the lower leaves off.
3) Dip cut end into hormone rooting powder.
4) Plant cutting in a small pot or tray containing soil
or vermiculite.
5) Firm soil and water.
Note: Spider plant babies can be cut from ends of leaves and
rooted in the same way.
division
Only certain types of plants can be propagated this
way. The plants must have two or more stems branching
out from below ground level and each stem must have
an independent root system. African violets can be
separated in this way.
division steps
1) Remove plant from container.
2) Brush away excess soil to expose the root system.
3) Pry the sections you wish to divide gently apart.
Tough or tangled roots may have to be cut in order
to separate them.
4) Place each division into a separate pot appropriate for
the size of the root-ball and plant to its previous level.
5) Firm soil and water.
offsetting
Offsets are small plants that develop at the base of a
larger plant. Offsets that are half the size of the parent
plant are easily separated. Examples are bromeliads,
dracaena, and some cactus.
offsetting steps
1) Remove plant from container.
2) Crumble away excess soil.
3) Pull offset away from the parent plant. Be sure to
take as much root material as possible.
4) Repot parent plant into its former container and
the offset into a smaller pot at its former depth.
5) Firm soil and water.
air layering
If a houseplant becomes too tall, air layering can be
used to produce a new, shorter stemmed plant. It is
typically used for large-leaved plants, where it would be
difficult for enough water to maintain the leaves when a
cutting has no roots. Dieffenbachia and rubber plants
are commonly air-layered.
air layering steps
1) Make a 1-2 inch (2.5-5 cm) long slanted, upward
cut into the main stem at the height you wish your
new plant to begin.
2) Prop the cut open and brush with hormone
rooting powder.
3) Wrap area around cut loosely in plastic and seal at
the bottom.
4) Fill bag with moist moss and seal top.
5) When roots appear in the cut, 8-10 weeks, cut stem
just below the new roots.
6) Plant in well-drained container, firm soil and water.
7) Original plant will usually grow new leaves at
the base.
120
 Christmas
artificial Christmas trees
Greengate supplies customers with superior quality
artificial Christmas trees. For nearly 30 years, Barcana has
brought the best in artificial trees, wreaths, and garlands
to the consumer. Barcana trees are manufactured to the
highest standards of excellence, and each tree is backed
by a 25-year warranty. Trees vary in size from 2 to 14 feet.
Branches are hinged for fold-away storage, and the tree
can be stored with lights attached. They are flame retardant,
and a durable stand and storage box are included.

Christmas lights (indoor & outdoor)

For indoor applications, such as artificial trees or
garlands, greengate now offers cool-burning L.E.D.
lights, with low power consumption. They may be your
best environmental choice for indoor lighting needs.
They come in strings of 50 lights and these strings will
stay lit even if one light burns out.

For outdoor applications we can now recommend

outdoor L.E.D. low power consumption lights as well
and of course more traditional net lights, icicle lights,
fancy lights and standard large bulb strings of lights.
You can be assured of quality backed by C.S.A. approval.

fresh cut Christmas trees

Add the wonderful scent of evergreen to your home.
Greengate offers premium fresh cut Christmas trees,
garlands, door swags, wreaths and boughs. Depending
on availability, we stock douglas fir, grand fir, frasier fir,
white pine and scotch pine. This fresh greenery will add
that special touch to your home this holiday season.

121
The jolliest time of the year at greengate is of course
Christmas. Fill your home with childhood scents of the
season be it a fresh cut tree or garlands. During the
Holiday Season greengate transforms into Traditions a
Christmas themed wonderland with seasonal decorating
ideas second to none.
Really, there is no end to things you might try this
Holiday Season, so if you havent been in for Christmas
its about time. You never know, when you see our
Christmas light display, you may be inspired to try some
out door lighting yourself! This time of year is perfect
for making the house a home at greengates Traditions.

Fairies, angles, trimmings and a few things you wouldnt

expect to find for Christmas flow through traditions on
our many themed trees. Nature or sports or traditional
ornaments can be found in just about every color
imaginable. Each year Traditions brings new dcor
ideas for your Holiday Season. Traditional colors like red,
green and gold are always great choices for a traditional
look, but you can also wow your guests and family
with burgundys, purples, silvers and blues. Youll note
that colors are not just for spring when you enter
Traditions. Create harmony and warmth with brightly
colored nutcrackers, mercury glass ornaments or
adorable candy dishes. Brighten your dining room with
eccentric hand made centerpieces or create your own!

Enjoy browsing around with a complimentary hot apple

cider and dream up the perfect holiday touches. It could
be the bright green of holly that accents your table or
the many red hues of a Poinsettia. Either way youll find
the perfect look for your home. Try something whimsical
this season like adding twigs to your tree or a beautiful
berry wreath. Toy trains work great for entertaining
boys of all ages and can be found running about the
store too. The warmth of a stuffed bear always delights
and those too can be placed in or under the tree for a
magical feel.

Dont just lay your stockings on the mantle this year!

Try a bold stocking hanger instead. They come in many
sizes so whether you are getting coal or something a bit
more appropriate youll find one that works for you.
Dinner is always a highlight try lighting with candles,
and spread the childrens grins with Christmas crackers.
Always Fun!

122
 Department 56
Department 56 lighted houses & accessories
are a wonderful way to create memories for young and
old alike. The different villages each have special
characteristics that draw people to them, often
childhood memories. Every year some pieces retire in
November and new pieces are announced in January.
They usually arrive in August, signaling the end of
summer and the beginning of the Christmas season.
The Original Snow Village was the first village, beginning in
1976. These brightly colored, ceramic pieces represent
America in the 1950s and 60s. They are a larger scale
and shinier than the others and are usually not mixed
with other villages.
123
The other villages, grouped together as The Heritage
Village Collection are made of porcelain and are all in
the same, smaller scale.
Dickens Village represents London, England in the
early 1800s. There are several themes, such as formal
buildings in downtown London, smaller cottages and
shops of the villages of England, and the seacoast.
North Pole Santa and Mrs. Claus have quite a village,
loved by all. There are homes and shops, Santas Castle,
and a red pointy-toed shoe! The elves have their own
smaller version, Elfland, appropriate to their size.
New England is the Maritimes, with its lighthouses,
gardens and tidy little shops and houses. It also has
accessories representing native wild animals, woodland
scenes, bridges and fishing, that suggest the hills and
the seacoast.
Christmas in the City is New York City in the 1930s and
40s. The tall, stately buildings hold a variety of shops
and accessories. Both people and vehicles add to the
hustle and bustle of the big city.
Alpine Village reminds us of the mountains of Europe -
the colorful buildings, snow, music and beautiful mountain
scenery. There are accessories and people to enjoy it
all. What a wonderful place to live!
Little Town of Bethlehem suggests ancient biblical
themes, spanning history over thousands of years, and
buildings and people similar to those of that era. You
will see camels, shepherds and wise men as well as
nativity scenes.
Snowbabies are delightful little children frolicking in
the snow - a completely different collectible from
Department 56. Their creamy white snowsuits are
covered with nubby bisque crystals and their adorable
faces are hand painted. Snowbabies are welcomed as
holiday gifts, not only at Christmas but for birthdays,
new babies, Mothers Day and anniversaries.
Halloween is kids and trick or treat, a spooky farmhouse,
ghosts and goblins, a haunted outhouse, pumpkins and
a haunted hearse. Very scary!
124
 xeriscaping
What? Mulch
Xeriscaping refers to gardening in such a way that our
gardens thrive with little effort on our part, because we
have chosen plants appropriate to the area. It does not
necessarily mean that you do not need to water as
often. By choosing plants with specific needs and
grouping them together, different needs can be met.
Native Plants
Identifying a plants native home makes it easy to
understand the needs of that plant. Many of our
perennials are cultivars of plants growing on the
prairies what we call wildflowers. Think of asters,
columbine, crocus, flax, golden rod, monarda, Shasta
(Ox-eye) daisy, shooting star, viola, and yarrow. Shrubs
such as potentilla, currant, dogwood, pussy willow and
wild roses are well known and hardy here. If they
survive the sunny, dry prairies, they will do well in
similar growing conditions in your garden. What we
see for sale are cultivars, meaning that they are
hybridized and have some different attributes but they
are still basically the same and will do well in similar
growing conditions as they had before. They need little
attention. Yes, you can grow plants that need more
moisture, but if they are grouped together, it will be
easier to satisfy them.
Steps
Mulch to reduce weeds and retain water. Beats
Peat is a very effective mulch and is an excellent
option. It absorbs and holds more water than peat
moss and is produced from coconut husks, which are
a much more renewable resource than the harvest of
the peat bogs, making it a more environmentally
friendly approach.
Plant
Consider the amount of grass you have and
whether it is there because you want it there, or
simply by default. Perennials or a shrub or two would
need much less care than a lawn does.
Choose from the native plants available that are
suitable for your planting area.
Water Deeply
Watering deeply and then waiting until the roots
actually need water will result in deep roots that
absorb water well and are healthier. Lawns and
gardens are often watered far too often, encouraging
shallow roots that do not do well in hot, dry weather.
This is a very simple overview but it does open the idea
of using tough plants to make gardening simpler, so
choose them wisely.

Condition Soil
Make the area where the the plants will be living as
healthy and as low maintenance as is possible.

Soil may need to be modified to hold enough

moisture that plants will not suffer from drought, and
still be sure that it isnt so wet that there isnt enough
oxygen in the soil.

Additives such as compost, either your own or

purchased, or a Bone Meal like GroundsKeepers Pride,
will improve the quality of the soil and enable it to
hold moisture and nutrients until the plants need it.

125
 glossary

Acid soil Soil with a pH below 7

Aeration Puncturing the soil to allow better water and air circulation

Air layering A propagation method used for plants that have grown too tall

Alpine Plants that grow naturally above the tree line in mountainous regions

Annual A plant that completes its life cycle and dies in one season

Biennial A plant that completes its life cycle over two seasons

Blanching Keeping light from tender vegetable stems

Bog plant A species that has evolved to live in damp soil

Bone meal A slow release phosphorous rich natural fertilizer

Bonsai The Japanese method of training dwarf plants in containers

Botanical name The scientific name for a plant; plants may have several common names

Bud The swelling as a plant starts new flower or leaf growth

Bulb An underground stem, that stores nutrients and produces stems, leaves and flowers

Bulblet A small bulb developing at the base of a mature one

Cactus A succulent plant with swollen, fleshy stems, and needles

Compost A soft, rich, dark substance produced by decomposing organic matter

Corm Thick underground stems, covered by protective leaves, that flower and die in one season

Cormel Small corm developing on the surface of corms

Deadheading Removing spent flowers to encourage re-blooming

Deciduous Plants that lose their leaves at the end of the growing season

Division The process of dividing clump forming plants into separate smaller plants

Dormancy The annual period when plants growth slows greatly, usually the winter

Dwarf A miniature form of a particular plant

Evergreen A plant that retains its foliage all year long

Fertilizer A compound that provides plants with nutrients

126
 glossary

Foliage A term describing plant leaves

Force To encourage a plant to come into stem, leaf and flower production out of season

Furrow A shallow trench in which seeds or seedlings are planted

Germination The process of seeds turning into young plants

Grafting The process of artificially uniting a stem with a stock plant

Ground cover Low growing, spreading plants that cover large areas

Hardening off Adapting a plant slowly to colder conditions

Hardiness A plants ability to survive in harsh conditions

Herb Plants with culinary or medicinal uses

Herbicide A chemical used to kill unwanted plants

Humus Organic matter resulting from composting

Hybrid A plant variety resulting from the combination of two different plant species, varieties, or cultivars

Insecticide A chemical used to kill insects that are considered pests

Leader The plants main stem

Loam Soil rich in organic material, ideal for growing

Microclimate The climate of a small area. Yards may contain several microclimates that may support the needs
of different plants

Mulch A layer of organic material placed on the soil to retain moisture, suppress weed growth and insulate
plant roots

Naturalizing The process of planting bulbous plants where they are scattered to create a natural look

Nitrogen The element present in fertilizer that promotes leaf growth

Organic gardening Gardening without the use of pesticides

Organic material Decomposed plant matter used in mulches and composts

Perennial A non-woody plant that lives longer than two years

Phosphorous The element of fertilizer that promotes root growth

Pollination The transfer of pollen between plants, which enables flower and fruit production

127
Potassium The element of fertilizer that promotes cell strength and plant hardiness

Potting soil A mix of soil or other products used for plants grown in containers

Propagation Starting new plants

Pruning The removal or shortening of branches from plants

Rhizome A thickened stem that grows horizontally along the soils surface

Root The underground part of the plant that supplies nutrients and water to the plant from the surrounding soil

Root ball The roots along with the soil that clings to them

Rooting hormone A liquid or powder that contains hormones which stimulate root formation in cuttings

Seedling A young plant that has been raised from a seed

Shrub A plant with many woody stems

Sow The act of planting seeds

Species Plant groupings that have the same general characteristics

Spike Tall flower head

Stem The main above ground part of the plant that develops buds and shoots

Succulent A plant with fleshy leaves and stems that can adapt to survive drought conditions

Sucker Growth coming directly from a plants roots

Systemic A chemical pesticide, fungicide or weed killer that is absorbed into a plants system

Terrarium An enclosed glass case for growing humidity-loving plants

Thinning Removing excess seedlings so that the remaining plants have room to reach maturity

Topsoil The uppermost layer of most fertile soil

Transplanting Moving a plant from one spot in the garden to another, also refers to moving container plants into larger containers

Tuber A thickened underground stem or root that stores plant nutrients for later use

Variegated Leaves that have edges or patches a different colour than the main leaf colour

Weed A plant that is growing in the wrong place

Winter kill Portion of a plant dying back due to harsh winter conditions

128
 r m a k i n g C a l g a r y g r e e n e r
Thank you f o
Shopping at greengate garden centre
doesnt just make your home and garden
green it also helps to make Calgary more
sustainable too. Thats because each dollar
you spend at Greengate is recirculated in
the local economy, creating jobs, charitable
donations, positive environmental impacts,
and many other economic benefits. In fact,
each dollar you spend at Greengate creates
up to $4 worth of good in Calgary.
*According to www.car-emissions.com, a 2007 Honda Civic generates 2,400 kg of CO2 per year based on the Canadian average of
16,000 kms as reported in a 2004 survey by Transport Canada.
**The Mustard Seed Street Ministrys Scan Away Homelessness program costs $3.18 per meal.
For example, Greengate purchases enough green
electricity each year to reduce CO2 emmissions by
223.3 tonnes. Thats like removing 93 Honda Civics
from the road each year*. Greengate also donates more
than $30,000 to local charities. Thats enough money
to feed 350 homeless people for one week**.
Greengate Garden Centres is a proud member of REAP
Business Association. REAP stands for Respect for the
Earth and All People. Were a network of locally owned
businesses that are working to make Calgarys
economy greener and more resilient. All of our
members have met criteria for environmental and
social responsibility as published by the Sustainable
Business Institute. Complete profiles are posted at
www.reapcalgary.com.
greengate.ca
gardenhelp@greengate.ca printed in canada