

f£*NV»f! Botanic gardens 

V 909 York SI. 

BENVIR 6 , COLORADO 


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Magazine for Rocky Mountain Gardeners 


DGRESS AND 
DWTH; HOW 
ESSENTIAL 
\RE THEY? 

Page 4 


ST HOLIDAY 
CARE FOR 
USE PLANTS 

Page 19 


! WINTER 
ARDENING 

Page 25 


HY DENVER 
NIC GARDENS 
NEED A 
4SERVATORY 

Page 37 


N.-FEB., 

1961 


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JAN.-FEB. 
Vol. 18 
No. 1 

DENVER 

BOTANIC GARDENS 
Trustees 

1961 Term 

Mrs. Alexander L. Barbour 
Mrs. Ed. H. Honnen 
(Exec. Comm.) 

Mr. Everett C. Long 
Mrs. Frank McLister 
(Exec. Comm.) 

Dr. William E. Morgan 
Mrs. J. Churchill Owen 
(Vice-Pres.) 

1962 Term 

Dr. J. R. Durrance 
(Vice-Pres. & Exec. Comm.) 

Mrs. George H. Garrey 
(Asst. Sec'y. & Exec. Comm.) 

Mr. Lawrence A. Long 
(Pres.) 

Mr. Hudson Moore, Jr. 
Mr. John B. Welborn 
Mr. Kenneth G. Wilmore 

1963 Term 

Mrs. James R. Arneill, Jr. 
Mr. Fred R. Johnson 

Mr. John C. Mitchell 
(Treas. & Exec. Comm.) 

Mr. M. Walter Pesman 
(Historian) 

Dr. Moras L. Shubert 
(Sec'y) 

Mrs. James J. Waring 
(Vice-Pres. & Exec. Comm.) 


Members 


The (jteen “Th umlt 

To conduct research on plants, both native and exotic, in 
varied plant zones of our reigon; to evaluate their economic, 
medicinal and horticultural potentials. 

To coordinate the knowledge and experience of botanists, 
horticulturists and gardeners. 

To educate the public in the best use of horticultural 
materials. 

To maintain a large collection of plant species and varieties 
for study and display. 


INDEX 

TITLE PAGE 

Progress and Growth; How Essential Are They 

Lawrence A. Long, President . 4 

Letter from Mayor Batterton . 5 

Guest Editorial, by Everett C. Long . 6 

Calendar of Events . 6 

The Colorado Nurserymen's Association . 8 

Committees for 1961 . 9 

What a Membership in the Botanic Garden Can 

Mean to You, Mrs. Elna Gibson . 10 

They Got Together . 11 

Helen K. Fowler . 12 

The Upward Look in Tree Planting . 12 

Gardening with Colorado Wildings III. 

by Ruth Ashton Nelson . 13 

Question Column . 15 

This is the Time to Make Your Garden Plan . 17 

Membership Breakdown by Location . 18 

Post Holiday Care for House Plants 

by Helen Marsh Zeiner . 19 

If It's Privacy You Want, by M. Walter Pesman . 21 

Here Is How to Prune Grape Vines, by Moras L. Shubert .. 23 

Winter Gardening, by Herb Gundell . 25 

Jewels of Opar (Talinum paniculatum) . 28 

Dedication of Children's Shelter, by Vella Conrad . 29 

Long Nights and Phytochrome, by M. Walter Pesman . 31 

Composting, by Mrs. John Scott . 32 

Orchids for Everyone . 34 

New and Old Books on Gardening . 35 

Why Denver Botanic Gardens Need a Conservatory . 37 


SENT FREE TO ALL MEMBERS OF THE ORGANIZATION. 
REGULAR MEMBERSHIP, $5.00; PARTICIPATING, $10.00; 
SUPPORTING, $25.00; CONTRIBUTING, $50.00; SUSTAIN¬ 
ING, $100.00. 

Copyright 1961 

DENVER BOTANIC GARDENS, INC. 

A non-profit, privately financed Organization 

EA 2-9656 MA 3-1133, Ext. 428 

909 YORK ST. DENVER 6, COLORADO 


PROGRESS AND GROWTH; 

HOW ESSENTIAL ARE THEY? 

Lawrence A. Long, President 

Our group has never faced a greater challenge than now. We have 
accepted that challenge, but how well we succeed depends entirely on you, on 
all of us. We believe we have the formula. Where could anyone find a more 
fertile field than in our community, our membership and our potential? Plant 
now the seeds of friendly, cooperative and united effort. Sprinkle this regularly 
with enthusiasm and imagination, keep out the weeds of discord and com¬ 
placency, and soon our garden will flower with success. That’s the formula! 
To miss now would be to set the cause of horticulture in this area back 20 
years. Our course is charted, we’re on our way and with your help success is 
within easy reach. 

Already enthusiasm is being generated for our new MEMBERSHIP effort. 
2,000 new members by April 30! That’s our goal, and here’s the first way 
you can help. It’s so easy to think Botanic Gardens, talk Botanic Gardens and 
come right out and ask your friends, neighbors and anyone else “Are you a 
member of Denver Botanic Gardens?” New members are essential not only 
for practical economic reasons, but more especially for the enthusiasm they 
inevitably generate. Let’s see how many we will have at our Annual Dinner 
in February. 

The Botanic Gardens have many responsibilities and a more than equal, 
number of plans. As you no doubt know, the city gives funds for maintenance 
of our 18 acres of city property on York Street; and the Foundation is respon¬ 
sible for all capital improvements. Among the current responsibilities: over¬ 
seeing some of the gardens in city park, and maintaining an Alpine trail on 
Mount Goliath, near Echo Lake which we developed. Another zonal garden 
in Red Rocks Park, developed by the Gardens is nearing completion, and 
many more are planned in the area. 

Dr. A. C. Hildreth, director of the Gardens, has stated the responsibilities: 
“We serve the public through research on plant problems of the area, develop¬ 
ment of our projects, and by education on matters pertaining to botany and 
horticulture.” 

Education is offered by the publication of “Green Thumb”—the Rocky 
Mountain’s definitive garden magazine—and by the maintenance of information 
service on garden problems at Headquarters House. The Children’s garden 
program, which is open to all children in the area, is a fine example of the 
education program, as are the courses offered at Botanic Gardens House on 
a variety of botanic and horticultural subjects. These courses are, of course^ 
open to the public. 

Research is underway at the gardens on varieties of flowers and shrubs 
which flourish in this climate. The findings of this research will benefit all 
gardeners. One of the greatest challenges is to develop the finest botanic 
gardens in the country. We look forward to having a conservatory where plants 
of all climates may be on display and which will make the gardens a winter 
attraction as well as summer pleasure. 

In short, the Botanic Gardens will be the hub of all activity in the entire 
region allied with the field of horticulture and botany, and that is the answer 
to how essential Progress and Growth are to Denver Botanic Gardens. 


4 


Aayor Batterton, left; President Long, right, and Scott Wilmore examining The HELEN FOWLER LIBRARY. 


LETTER FROM MAYOR BATTERTON 

Dear Larry: 

It seems most appropriate at the beginning of a 
new year to extend to you and the members of your 
organization my very best wishes for 1961. 

I feel that the recent consolidation of the Denver 
Botanic Gardens with the Colorado Forestry and 
Horticulture Association cannot help but contribute 
immeasurably to the effectiveness of your efforts. 

Be assured of my continued support for the worth¬ 
while program being carried out under your leadership. 
May the coming year bring you every success. 


Sincerely 


Dick Batterton 
Mayor 


5 


GUEST EDITORIAL 

Everett C. Long 

Cottonwood trees along the river banks, native shrubs and wildflowers 
were the main botanical features encountered by thousands of settlers streaming 
across the plains to the Denver area a century ago. Today, the ameliorating 
influences of an advancing civilization have in many ways modified the raw, 
rugged, hardy life of our pioneers. That hallmark of a mature society, horti¬ 
cultural sophistication, keeps pace, with even greater promise for the future 
sparked by the Denver Botanic Gardens. 

Horticultural achievement in this area by both the private gardeners and 
commercial nurseries needs no apologies. With the advent of the Denver 
Botanic Gardens new vistas unfold. Here is the opportunity for horticultural 
education, beautification and edification. Here is the chance to disseminate 
information on problems and possibilities of local concern through The Green 
Thumb , Colorado’s unique, long-established, authoritative magazine. Here 
can be undertaken scientific experiments, beyond the scope of the individual, 
to add to the horticultural knowledge of this region. 

Denver Botanic Gardens, youthful in years, has many accomplishments 
to its credit. Infinitely greater achievements are possible through expanded 
interest and support. Your help in expanding membership to include all 
interested in horticulture in this area will implement full realization of the 
tremendous inherent possibilities. 


Monday, Feb. 13: 10:00 a.m. Judges’ 
Council; 7:30 p.m. Alta Vista Gar¬ 
den Club, Mr. Gundell, Speaker. 

Tuesday, Feb. 14: 7:30 p.m. Ever¬ 
green Garden Club. 

Wednesday, Feb. 15: 9:30 a.m. “Fun 
with Flowers” Workshop; 10:00 
a.m. Herbarium Study Group. Mrs. 
Kalmbach. 

Thursday, February 16: 10:00 a.m. 
“Around the Seasons” Study Group. 

Friday, Feb. 17: 7:45 p.m. Botany 
Club. Public invited. 

Tuesday, Feb. 21: 8:00 p.m. Forestry 
and Tree Maintenance Class, Dr. 
Hildreth. 

Thursday, Feb. 23: 1:00 p.m. Civic 
Garden Club, Div. A, Luncheon 
Meeting. 

Friday, Feb. 24: 7:30 p.m. Landscape 
Contractors. 

March 26th thru April 2nd: Colorado 
Garden Show, Stockyards Stadium. 


— 


FEBRUARY, 1961 

Wednesday, Feb. 1: 7:30 p.m. Botany 
Club. 

Thursday, Feb. 2: 7:45 p.m. Orchid 
Society. 

Monday, Feb. 6: 9:30 a.m. Junior 
Committee, Mrs. Brown. 

Tuesday, Feb. 7: 1:00 p.m. Mountain 
View Garden Club Luncheon Meet¬ 
ing; 8:00 p.m. Forestry and Tree 
Maintenance Class, Dr. Hildreth. 

Thursday, Feb. 9: 7:30 p.m. Rose 
Society. 

Friday, Feb. 10: 7:30 p.m. Landscape 
Contractors. 


6 


OUR STAFF — From left to right. Back row: Mr. Charles P. Barone, Gardener-Florist; Mr. Ragnar Brom¬ 
berg, Gardener, and Mr. Edwin N. Fennell, Gardener-Florist (apprentice). Front row: Mrs. Helen M. 
Vincent, Clerical Assistant; Dr. A. C. Hildreth, Director, and Miss Bertha M. Durfee, Clerk-Stenographer. 


ANNUAL DINNER 

The annual membership dinner will be held Sunday, February 12, 
1961, at the Denver Country Club. Mark your calendar for this special 
event and plan to attend. Get your tickets now for we can accommodate 
only 300 people. 


SPECIAL TRIBUTE 


Special tribute is awarded to M. Walter Pesman for his untiring work on 
this issue of The Green Thumb as editor pro tem. 


Preserve the Health and Beauty of Your Trees With Swingle Care 

SWINGLE 

TREE SURGERY COMPANY 

620 South Dahlia FR 7-8123 


7 


THE 


COLORADO 

NURSERYMEN’S 

ASSOCIATION 


Ken Wilmore, President 


tAEMBf# 


*ST. 191* 


The Colorado Nurserymen’s Associ¬ 
ation is fully aware of the importance 
of the Denver Botanic Gardens, and 
will work with it to our utmost capa¬ 
cities. 

We of the C.N.A. realize that the 
Denver Botanic Gardens will add not 
only aesthetic interest to our city, but 
invaluable informational assistance to 
the Colorado nursery industry. 

Therefore we wish the best of suc¬ 
cess to the Denver Botanic Gardens 
and pledge 100% cooperation from 
the Colorado Nurserymen’s Associ¬ 
ation. 

What is this organization? It was 
established in 1924 when the nursery 
industry was a mere infant as com¬ 
pared to the thriving status it now 
holds in Colorado. 

Quality and Ethics are its purposes. 
Quality and Ethics are the watch¬ 
words. Without Quality and Ethics, no 
nurseryman can be a member of the 
Colorado Nurserymen’s Association. 

During its formative years a group 
of men representing the nursery busi¬ 
ness could see the potential in the 
trade and along with it the problems 
that would arise and face the industry. 
They realized the climatic problems, 
soil problems, and other factors that 
would affect the nursery business. 


Their major activities at that time were 
increasing the hardy plant list through 
experimentation and trial and error. 
Also there were other factors to con¬ 
sider such as a cooperative price struc¬ 
ture that would increase the profits of 
their businesses. 

In naming as many of these original 
members as I can, they were: D. M. 
Andrews, Boulder; Armand Barteldes, 
Denver; R. J. Curry, Ft. Morgan; Carl 
Ferguson, Denver; Arthur Langman, 
Colorado Springs; Mrs. Kathleen Mar¬ 
riage, Colorado Springs; John T. Ro¬ 
berts, Littleton; Aaron Sonnenborn, 
Pueblo; D. W. Spangler, Longmont; 
G. A. Tolleson, Wheatridge; Ray Wil¬ 
liams, Greeley, and Charles Wilmore, 
Wheatridge. 

Up through the years, the member¬ 
ship has swelled to more than forty 
members, representing nearly every 
section of the state. 

In conclusion, let us again express 
our great appreciation of the work 
in which the Denver Botanic Garden 
is engaged, and our eagerness to help 
along in its various activities. With the 
newly accomplished merger the Bo¬ 
tanic Gardens is all the better equipped 
for assisting all of us, in any form of 
horticulture, both educationally and 
practically. 


8 


COMMITTEES FOR 1961 


The Committees listed below are 
not complete. It is hoped that many 
more of our members will help in 
making 1961 a banner year. 

If you wish to join in this fine ven¬ 
ture phone Botanic Gardens House, 
MA 3-1133, Ext. 428 or EA 2-9656 
and let us add your name to the com¬ 
mittee of your choice. 

1. Finance Committee : Mr. John 
Mitchell, Chairman. 

Messrs. J. C. Blickensderfer, 
Hudson Moore Jr., John Wel- 
born, Dr. J. Harrison Belknap. 

2. Membership : Mrs. Jess Gibson, 
Chairman. 

Mmes. Mackintosh Brown, Vella 
Hood Conrad, Douglas Goforth, 
Eugene Kramer, John A. Moore, 
Dr. J. R. Durrance, Mr. Clyde 
Learned, Mr. W. M. Fleisher, 
(Pueblo). 

3. Publications : Mr. M. Walter Pes- 
man, Chairman. 

Miss Julia Andrews, Mmes. Alex¬ 
ander Barbour, William H. Crisp, 
John Scott, James P. Steele, J. V. 
Peterson, Edmund Wallace, Mr. 
and Mrs. Everett Long (Boul¬ 
der). 

Messrs. Patrick Gallavan, Fred 
Johnson. Dr. A. C. Hildreth, Dr. 
Moras Shubert, Dr. Helen Zeiner. 

Advertising — Mrs. Vella Hood 
Conrad. 

4. Education Committee : Dr. Mor¬ 
as Shubert. 

Mrs. James Rae Arneill, Dr. Hel¬ 
en Zeiner, Dr. A. C. Hildreth. 


5. Children's Gardens : Mrs. Giles 
Filley, Chairman. 

Dr. J. R. Durrance, Mrs. Joseph 
V. Vleck, Mrs. Lloyd Watkins, 
Mrs. Seymour Simmons, Jr., Mrs. 
James Waring. 

6. Planning Committee 

Dr. J. R. Durrance, Mrs. George 
H. Garrey, Mrs. Edward H. Hon- 
nen, Mrs. James Waring. 

7. House Committee : Mrs. Frank 
McLister, Chairman. 

Mrs. C. C. Buckbee, Mrs. Ivan 
Carpenter, Mrs. Vella Hood Con¬ 
rad. 

8. Grounds Committee : Mrs. James 
Rae Arneill, Chairman; Mrs. Cass 
Herrington, Mrs. J. Churchill 
Owen. 

9. Library Committee : Mrs. Moras 
Shubert, Consultant. 

Mrs. George Argali, Mrs. Mack¬ 
intosh Brown, Mrs. John W. New¬ 
man. 

10. Herbarium Committee : Mrs. E. 
R. Kalmbach, Chairman. 

Mrs. Edward Mixa, Boulder; 
Mrs. George Kelly, Mrs. J. V. 
Peterson, Mrs. J. P. Steele, Mrs. 
Jackson C. Thode, Miss Alice 
Wood, Colorado Springs. 

11. Denver Botanic Gardens Junior 
Committee : Mrs. Mackintosh 
Brown, President. 

Mrs. Donald E. Thomas, Vice 
President; Mrs. C. O. Arnold, 
Cor. Secretary; Mrs. Wm. C. 
Jackson, Jr., Rec. Secretary; Mrs. 
Schuyler Grey, Treasurer. 


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Preferred Nursery Stock for the 
Rocky Mountain and Plains Regions 

ONE MILE NORTH OF LOVELAND HIGHWAY 287 
P. O. Box 536 Loveland, Colorado 

Drop Card for Our Current Catalog 


9 


12. Garden Tours : Mr. Herbert Gun- 
dell, Chairman; Mrs. C. C. Buck- 
bee, Mr. Fred Johnson. 

13. “Around the Seasons” An assis¬ 
tance group. 

Mrs. Graham Morrison, Chair¬ 
man. 

14. Annual Dinner : Mrs. Benjamin 
Stapleton, Jr., Chairman. 

15. Plant Auction and Fiesta 

Mrs. James Rae Arneill, Mrs. 

Glen Clayton, Mrs. Vella Hood 
Conrad, Mrs. Mackintosh Brown, 

Mrs. Roland Enos, Mrs. Malcom 
Erickson, Mrs. George H. Garrey, 

Mrs. Jess Gibson, Mrs. Cass Her¬ 
rington, Mrs. Edw, H. Honnen, 

Mrs. James Hollister, Mrs. Guil¬ 
ford Jones, Mrs. John Mackenzie, 

Mrs. Alonzo Lilly, Mrs. Lawrence 
Long, Mrs. Frank McLister, Mrs. 

Persis Owen, Mrs. C. O. Parker, 

Louisville, Mrs. James Waring, 

Mrs. P. D. Whitaker, Mrs. John 
Welborn, Mrs. Kernan Weck- 
baugh. 

What a Membership in the Botanic Garden 

Can Mean to You 

Mrs. Elna Gibson 

A membership in many organizations means merely a generous gesture 
to help support the work of that organization. In the case of the Denver Botanic 
Gardens, Inc. it also means support very definitely, but it carries the added 
feature of being a two-way affair. The Botanic Garden has things to offer in 
return for the donation to your work or pleasure or both! Your membership 
entitles you to participate in their activities as well as enjoy their premises and 
possessions. 

The Headquarters Building, a handsome roomy mansion at 909 York 
Street, has meeting rooms, a fully equipped dining room and kitchen, for the 
use, at a nominal fee, for garden clubs. The Helen Fowler Library, one of the 
best collections of horticultural books in the west, is located there in a big 
comfortable room, where one may read and study. Upstairs, carefully labeled 
and shelved, is the Herbarium, a collection of dried plants, very useful to 
botanists and students. In the summertime the expanding main garden and the 
Children’s Garden can be visited and explored. 

Last but not least, the Green Thumb magazine, familiar to all members 
of the Colorado Forestry and Horticultural Association, will continue its in¬ 
valuable information service to the members of the Denver Botanic Gardens 


Where did I bury that nut? Mr. Squirrel buries 
many nuts and fortunately he does not find all 
that he puts away. Many trees are started this 
way. It is an interesting form of seed dispersal. 


10 


HONORING KATHRYN KALMBACH — Mrs. James Waring, left, and President Lawrence Long, center, 
ook on as Mrs. Kathryn Kalmbach shows some of the specimens of the Kathryn Kalmbach Herbarium. 


They Got Together 


T'HE members of the Boards of 
Trustees of the Denver Botanic 
Bardens and the Colorado Forestry 
and Horticulture Association, their 
wives and husbands, and the staffs of 
the two organizations assembled at 
JBotanic Gardens House, Sunday eve- 
ling, November 13, to celebrate the 
nerging of the two organizations. 

Dr. and Mrs. James J. Waring, gra- 
;ious host and hostess for the occa¬ 
sion, welcomed the guests. Following 
a social hour, a buffet supper was 
served. 

Lawrence Long, President of Botanic 
Bardens, introduced guests Mayor and 
VIrs. Richard Batterton, Ben C. 
Bssig, President of the Zoological Gar¬ 
den Foundation, Mrs. C. C. Buckbee, 
^resident of the Colorado Federation 
)f Garden Clubs, and Mr. Buckbee. 

Mr. Long said this occasion is the 
aeginning of greater things for Denver 
ind the State in the establishment of 
i botanical garden that will be of in¬ 
estimable value to the Great Plains 


and the Central Rocky Mountain Re¬ 
gions. 

A bronze plaque, to be placed at 
the entrance of the Helen Fowler Li¬ 
brary, was unveiled. Mr. Long paid 
tribute to the late Mrs. Fowler for 
her unselfish work in assembling 8,000 
volumes on gardening, landscaping, 
horticulture and conservation. 

A plaque, honoring Mrs. Kathryn 
Kalmbach for her work in assembling 
a herbarium containing over 2,000 
botanical specimens, was unveiled. 
This herbarium will hereafter be known 
as the Kathryn Kalmbach Herbarium. 

Mr. Long introduced Scott Wilmore, 
President of the Colorado Forestry 
and Horticulture Association, who 
presented Patrick J. Gallavan, retir¬ 
ing manager of the Association and 
editor of the Green Thumb, with a 
purse of $300 in appreciation of his 
services during the past five years. This 
gift came from members of the Board 
of Trustees and other friends. 

Fred R. Johnson. 


li 


HELEN K. FOWLER 

Mrs. Helen K. Fowler, 81, of 10000 W. 44th Ave., Wheatridge, widely 
known nursery owner and landscape gardener, died Tuesday, November 2, at 
Sands House Sanitarium. 

Born at Eau Claire, Wisconsin, Mrs. Fowler attended Vassar College, 
Poughkeepsie, New York and the University of Wisconsin. 

She and her husband, John, operated the Shadow Valley Nursery Gardens 
for many years. Mr. Fowler died in December, 1959. 

Mrs. Fowler was a member of the Colorado Forestry and Horticulture 
Association, and was an honorary trustee of that organization. The library 
at the Denver Botanic Gardens is named in her honor, and will be known as 
the Helen Fowler Memorial Library. 

Helen Fowler was a woman of many talents. To know her was to love 
her. I will remember most the Persian Proverb she liked so much. It was sym¬ 
bolic of her way of life. 

Unselfishness 

What I kept I lost, 

What I spent I had, 

What I gave I have. 


The Upward Look in Tree Planting 

The forest giants such as American Elm, Honey Locust, Soft Maple and 
Cottonwood have caused us to look upward to see their tops. 

The numerous costs of large shade trees, high maintenance, removing 
storm damaged branches, clearing power and telephone lines, and excessive 
shade make us wonder if there is not a solution. 

The Right Tree in the Right Place is the answer. We still can use the 
large trees in places where they have enough space both above and below 
ground to reach full maturity. The constant clipping and cutting to keep a 
large tree small would be reduced. 

There is nothing more beautiful than the old cottonwoods at this time 
of year. Next time you are driving along the highway glance at the old giants, 
which have survived and enjoy the lacy patterns of their branches. 

In your own back yard such a sight is only available on a miniature scale 
because you need sun for the flowers and space for croquet, room for the service 
lines and sunlight in your home. The use of smaller trees will solve many of the 
problems, e.g. the flowering crabs, littleleaf linden, European mountainash, fruit 
trees and narrow upright trees e.g. column linden, maple or oak and horse-chest¬ 
nut. These trees might be called miniatures. 

Plant scientists and nurserymen are developing and selecting trees “tai¬ 
lored” for a location. Globe-headed locust, elm, hawthorn, umbrella catalpa 
will stay small enough to never interfere with utility lines. Upright or columnar 
maples, oaks and linden will fit into the small spaces. The Golden Rain tree 
grows into a small ornamental specimen. Now when planting that shade tree 
this spring, look up and around for the space for the tree to grow. 

—Earl J. Sinnamon 


12 


GARDENING WITH COLORADO 

WILDINGS III 

Ruth Ashton Nelson 


NATIVE SHRUBS 
HE WOODY plants of our moun¬ 
tains and foothills provide several 
jspecies which are useful for landscap¬ 
ing purposes. As with other wildings 
most of them look best when grown in 
moderately dry situations. As I have 
said before, a little more water than 
they receive in nature increases their 
beauty, however, the amount we or- 
jdinarily give our lawns and cultivated 
shrubs makes them appear rank and 
overgrown. If they become lush and 
soft in growth they frequently soon 
die. I have divided them into five 
groups as follows and will take up each 
group in a separate article.* 

Our Tall (5'-10'), Deciduous 
Shrubs for Dry Locations. 

Our Tall Deciduous Shrubs for 
Moist Locations. 

Our Medium Sized and Small 
Shrubs. 

Our Rare or Difficult Shrubs. 

Our Native Evergreen Shrubs. 

TALL DECIDUOUS SHRUBS FOR 
SUNNY, DRY LOCATIONS 

One of the most valuable of our 
large shrubs is Mountain Privet, For - 
estiera neomexicana. This should be 
better known and more commonly 
used. It has an erect habit with small, 
light green leaves which turn pale yel¬ 
low in autumn and an interesting light 
greenish-gray bark. I like it grown near 
Russian-olive since its fall coloring is 
especially pleasing in combination with 
|the silvered green of the “olive”. For¬ 
es ti era has numerous small yellow 
flowers which add interest as they ap¬ 
pear before the leaves. Some individu¬ 
als bear quantities of dark bluish ber¬ 
ries. Mature shrubs will be six to eight 


feet tall. They are of finer texture than 
some other large shrubs such as the 
plums and chokecherries, and so can 
be used in smaller areas. They are in¬ 
tricately branched with many short 
twigs and will stand some shearing so 
they are valuable for screening pur¬ 
poses. Young plants may be easily 
grown from seed or obtained by layer¬ 
ing or dividing old shrubs. 

For bright green color in a dry 
landscape nothing exceeds the Wafer 
Ash or Hoptree, Ptelea baldwinii. This 
grows quickly from seed and makes a 
very attractive looking shrub with glos¬ 
sy, compound leaves of three leaflets 
each, and clusters of conspicuous 
winged seeds. It has a slightly dis¬ 
agreeable odor at close range but if 
placed at a little distance from walks 
and buildings it is useful and very 
handsome. 

The Russian-olive relatives, Silver- 
berry, Eleagnus commutata and Buf¬ 
falo Berry, Shepherdia argentea, are 
attractive gray-leaved shrubs. The first 
one rambles considerably but if you 
can cope with that problem it is valu¬ 
able. It is particularly useful where a 
thicket forming growth is desired to 
prevent erosion. The metallic sheen of 
its almost white leaves contrasts nicely 
with its glossy dark brown bark. The 
Buffalo Berry with narrow, gray-green 
leaves and an erect, rigid habit is less 
inclined to spread underground. It has 
thorns but not such fierce ones as the 
Russian-olive and is useful for hedges 
and screens. 

Our native Scrub Oak, Quercus 
Gambellii, is a shrub which some of 
us yearn to have on our grounds. Un¬ 
fortunately it is exceedingly difficult 
to transplant and has not, until re- 


* Foot note. Many of the shrubs mentioned in these articles are now available from 
the Western Evergreen Seedling Nursery and the Cottonwood Garden Shop. 


13 


cently, been grown to any extent by 
nurserymen. If you have years to wait 
you can grow it from seed. One way is 
to gather up a basket of leaves and 
leaf-mould from beneath a clump of 
oaks in early spring. Look this over 
carefully and quite likely you will find 
some sprouted acorns. If these are 
planted in a semi-shaded, protected 
place, covered with loose leaves and 
watered occasionally, they will, in the 
course of several years, make small 
shrubs. You will do well to mark the 
spot so as not to lose them until such 
time as they grow large enough to be 
seen. If they are to be transplanted 
eventually they should be undercut af¬ 
ter the second or third year with a 
sharp spade. Otherwise the tap root 
will go on straight down. I have been 
told on good authority that fair sized 
Scrub Oaks may be successfully moved 
in winter if large balls of frozen soil 
are taken. 

Service berry, Amelanchier alnifolia, 
is attractive and desirable but it is an¬ 
other temperamental individual, diffi¬ 
cult to transplant. I have succeeded a 
few times by bringing in rooted shoots. 
In my Laramie garden a shrub six feet 
tall bloomed and bore fruit for sev¬ 
eral years. Birds and insects are fond 
of the sweet, juicy berries and if grown 
near fruit trees it should be given the 
same spray treatment. Its panicles of 
white blossoms make it showy and 
beautiful in early spring. 

For mass, naturalistic effects in 
large scale planting the Choke Cherry 


Primus virginiana, and the Wild Plum, 
Prunus americana, are effective. They 
send up sprouts and so form thickets. 
Thus they are valuable for screening out 
unsightly views but are too aggressive 
for small gardens. Both are attractive in 
flower, the cherry blooming later than 
the plum and so lengthening the bloom¬ 
ing period. They both color beautifully 
in autumn and provide fruit attractive to 
birds and to any housewife who enjoys 
making wild fruit preserves. I have 
some wild plums, bearing for the first 
time this year, which were grown from 
seed of the 1951 crop planted that 
fall. They were transplanted two years 
ago which was the first season they 
bloomed. This set them back a year 
so I think they could be expected to 
bear in seven or eight years from 
seed. 

My experience is that any gardener 
who lives within bird-flight distance of 
a choke cherry bush has seedlings to 
spare so they should not be difficult 
to obtain by those who want them. 
They grow very rapidly from seed. 
Native shrubs are particularly useful 
to fill the dry corners outside the reach 
of your garden hose. 


Learn the Facts — Be a Member! 


F E R T O S A N 

This BACTERIA CONCENTRATE will rot 
down garden waste, grass cuttings, leaves, 
etc., into valuable compost (manure) quick¬ 
ly. Free instructions. 

No digging # No turning # Simple # Safe 

From Western Seed Co., and 
all good seedsmen. 


“Beautify your grounds with plants and flowers and vines. Have good gar¬ 
dens. Remember that everything of beauty tends to the elevation of man. Every 
little morning-glory whose purple blossom is thrilled by the amorous kisses of 
the Sun, tends to put a blossom in your heart. Do not judge the value of every¬ 
thing by the market reports. Every flower about a house certifies to the refine¬ 
ment of somebody. Every vine climbing and blossoming, tells of love and joy.” 

— Robert G. Ingersoll 

L. D. “LEW” HAMMER 

Landscape Contractor Tel. WE. 5-5938 


14 


7 7 7 7 


Dear Eddy, 


My back sounds like a squeaking 
door. Although this year’s crop has 
brought the ultimate in snow fun— 
sledding, snowflake ice-cream, and 
kissing snow folks, I’ve shoveled so 
much snow my neighbors call me 
Snow Pilot—I pile it on the outdoor 
planter, pile it on the cotoneaster near 
the chimney, on the perennials under 
the eave. Is there anything I can do 
to eliminate shoveling snow? 

Snow Pilot 


0ear Snow Pilot, 

Calcium chloride, a basic ingredient, 
plus various chemical additives will re¬ 
move snow and ice in limited quanti¬ 
ties. Distributors of the various pro¬ 
ducts are quick to admit its use would 
be costly in removing snow greater 
than three to five inches deep. Sprin¬ 
kled on ice or hardpacked snow these 
removers eat into or melt ice and 
mow so it drains off given areas or 
oosens for quick, easy shoveling. 
Harmless to established grass and 
>hrubs, it eliminates slipping dangers. 
Sprinkle the pellets sparingly and watch 
the snow and ice melt. Cost at 
he garden shops and hardware stores 
*anges from $2.25 to $4 for 25 
j30unds. If you have some left from 
his season you’ll find it useful in set¬ 
tling dust on tennis courts or drive¬ 
ways. Spread outside the greenhouse 
door, calcium chloride eliminates door- 
sticking. Aerosol ice removers are 
wonderful in preventing frost on wind- 
fields and even give traction to cars 
stuck on ice or snow. 


Dear Miss Information, 

News releases in recent months re¬ 
veal Uncle Sam is extremely disturbed 
about the outflow of gold from our 
country. Needless to say, a parallel 
problem in my personal reserve has 
left me with limited resources for 
studying about my current love, gar¬ 
dening. Can you give me some eco¬ 
nomical suggestions for finding gar¬ 
dening information? 

Yearn-to-Learn 

Dear Yearn-to-Learn, 

Don’t we all have our gold-flow 
problems? 

Libraries, bulletins and catalogs are 
our best printed inexpensive resources. 
Your county agent has many free bul¬ 
letins on flower, fruit, and vegetable 
gardening prepared by Colorado State 
University. Browse in his office, the 
attendant will ask only the number of 
bulletins you choose. 

Since you are a member of Botanic 
Gardens, borrow from the Helen Fow¬ 
ler Library, the largest library of its 
kind in our region. The Denver Public 
Library has an. excellent collection 
of gardening books. Most libraries 
throughout the state have George Kel¬ 
ly’s books written especially for this 
area. You’ll find a list of valuable 
books attached. “How to Garden with¬ 
out an Aching Back” by Ruth Stout 
might appeal to our friend, Snow Pilot. 
A “way-out” organic gardener, Miss 
Stout is so imbued with the merits of 
her carefree gardening she writes, 
“When I die, don’t dig a hole, just 
mulch me.” 

Catalogs, the gardener’s dream 
books, are free upon request; many are 


i MARSHALL 

NURSERIES 

Better Built Trees — landscaping '-vith Personality 

5825 W. 16th Avenue 

BEImont 7-0445 


offered to you in living color. Local 
nurserymen, besides giving useful hints 
about plant desirability and condition 
of growth, indicate in their booklets, 
plant hardiness in our region. Special¬ 
ists throughout the country offer cata¬ 
logs on roses, iris, lilies, perennials, 
even espaliered trees. Although very 
few catalogs need be purchased, some 
are price-worthy as beautiful color 
references for a variety of plants. 
Check the garden magazines at the 
libraries and nurserymen advertising 
in Green Thumb for suggestions. 

Many gardeners plan their perennial 
borders from colored pictures. Disap¬ 
pointment may result if the photograph 
is deceptive or if the pictured plant is 
a choice specimen growing under ideal 
conditions. Have you thought of devel¬ 
oping a mural of your garden? Draw 
a garden area to scale and insert plant 
pictures in their designated spot as in 
your real garden. How about using 
catalog pictures to enliven laundry or 
flower arranging room? 

If you can afford a small private 
library begin with Kelly’s book and a 
good gardening dictionary as Norman 
Taylor’s “Practical Encyclopedia of 
Gardening.” Supplement these with 
catalogs and your zest for learning 
will be satisfied for years. Find a plant 
in the catalog; next look it up in your 
reference book; associate descriptions 
and pictures with growing conditions. 
You’ll soon identify plants with only 
a bachelor’s degree in guessing. Don’t 
fret over botanical pronunciations, 
soon the association of a picture and 
name with a living plant will set your 
mind flashing botanical messages. As¬ 
sociate Plumbago and its common 
name, leadwort, with a plumber wip¬ 
ing joints with lead; pulmonaria or 
lungwort—disease of the chest, its 


foliage is speckled; lemon thyme with 
my darling Clementine. That’s my fun 
combination. Distinguished botanists 
frown and call it awkward, they sim¬ 
ply use a key. 

Keep yearning and learning. 

Dear Blossom, 

Last year’s tuberous begonias were 
little heads, much legs. What did I do 
wrong? 

Leggy 

Dear Leggy, 

Perhaps you started your begonia 
tubers too early. Mid-March and early 
April starts give compact plants and 
better timing for outdoor planting on 
Memorial Day or later. The tubers, 
one and a half to two inches in di¬ 
ameter, should be planted about one 
half inch deep in flats containing loam, 
leafmold and peat. Some add well- 
rotted cow manure or a little bone- 
meal thoroughly mixed with the other 
ingredients. Some experts use half peat 
and others use one-third of each. Some 
include sharp sand. Tubers may be 
started in four-inch pots with good 
drainage and later shifted to larger 
pots to be plunged into the ground or 
shifted from the pots into the flower 
border. 

Be sure the tuber is planted con¬ 
cave side up. Sometimes the pink 
growth is showing in the concave area. 
Place in a well lighted area of the 
house after the first week or ten days. 
Temperature should be 65 to 75 de¬ 
grees. 

Sometimes plants become leggy out¬ 
doors with too much shade. Filtered 
sunlight is best. Achieving proper light 
conditions is very important. Hope 
this is enough to get yours started. 


I am ever being taught new lessons in my garden: patience and industry 
by my friends the birds, humility by the great trees that will long outlive me, 
and vigilance by the little flowers that need my constant care.—Rosaline Neish. 


16 


THIS 


IS 

I THE 

TO TIME 

MAKE 

YOUR GARDEN PLAN 

Y OU CANNOT make a good plan 
without a definite plan. Whether 
you are old or young and whether you 
have a new, unplanted area around 
your home or an old yard where the 
planting needs to be changed you can¬ 
not make a plan unless you first decide 
what you want and what you need. If 
the wants and the needs agree your 
task is simpler. If there is conflict be¬ 
tween the two you will have to com¬ 
promise. 

So, to begin, look inward and study 
your tastes and your living habits. Are 
you the type that likes active relax¬ 
ation, likes to play games? Or are you 
the type that craves passive relaxation 
—to sit in the cool of the evening and 
admire the garden? Do you want seclu¬ 
sion and how much of it, or do you 
want a show place for entertaining? 
Do you enjoy the act of gardening and 
get your pleasure in seeing plants grow 
and develop? Have you reached the 
stage of collecting special plants and 
working for special effects? 

On an acre of land a mixed type of 
person might achieve several of these 
goals but Mr. Average Homeowner 
with his two or three lots will have 
to make eliminations, helped by this 
self-analysis of what he must have and 
what he can do without. Games re¬ 


quire lawn space or a children’s play¬ 
ground. Seclusion calls for fences and 
hedges. Entertainment demands pa¬ 
tios, pools and devices for outdoor 
cookery. Special plants require spe¬ 
cial soils and exposures or special con¬ 
struction as in the case of rock gar¬ 
dens. The gardener who “rolls his 
own” has to consider his time and 
muscle power. The artist planner has 
to think of color and harmony to cre¬ 
ate a picture. 

Well—when this fkst great decision 
has been reached—on to the ground. 
You start by making a map of your 
property, not just a rough sketch but 
a map, exact to scale: One inch equals 
either five, six, or eight feet as you 
choose but one inch equals two feet 
in flower beds and borders. The meas¬ 
urements must be made upon the 
ground since you cannot make a good 
plan by guessing distances. (You can 
get paper divided into little squares to 
aid you in this plotting of space.) Map 
making can be fun. 

After you know your distances ex¬ 
actly, then advance on to the problem 
of what will be planted where and in 
what proportion to the over all space. 
Don’t forget that you have a house 
present, probably a garage and may 
possibly want a tool house and a serv- 


Membership in The Green Thumb helps you keep up-to-date in your garden 
and in your home. 


17 


ice area. These structures should be 
indicated in proper size on the map. 

Now as to details, and here every¬ 
one can use the taste and imagination 
we have been speaking of. But, in 
general, it is wise to consider: Size 
and shape of patio (or outdoor sitting 
space), choice views to be accented, 
unpleasant features to be screened, 
sites for trees for shade and screen¬ 
ing, type and height for fences, crea¬ 
tion of interesting focal points. 

In any design there are basic prin¬ 
ciples: balance, sequence, scale and 
proportion, unity and rhythm which 


must underlie the whole in order to 
permit surface variations and personal 
tastes. 

Many attempts will be necessary, 
no doubt, to compose your landscape 
plan to your satisfaction, so use trac¬ 
ing paper superimposed on your map, 
repeat and repeat and never say die! 

P.S. For help in choosing plant ma¬ 
terial for Your Planting Plan based on 
the General Planting Plan, see next 
issue of The Green Thumb. 

M. W. P. 

by Ghostwriter C.A.B. 


BOTANIC GARDENS 

Membership Breakdown by Geographical 

Denver . 1200 La Jolla 

Englewood .Approx. 250 Long Beach 

Littleton .Approx. 22 5 Santa Barbara 

Colorado Springs .Approx. 50 San Francisco 

Pueblo .Approx. 30 San Luis Obispo 

Golden .Approx. 15 San Mateo 

Boulder .Approx. 50 Venice 

Wheat Ridge .Approx. 50 Whittier 

Lakewood .Approx. 50 CONNECTICUT 

.Approx. 25 Falls Village 

The following communities in Colorado have from FLORIDA 
1 to 10 members: Pompano Beach 

Alamosa Johnstown g' Si'"'’"' 8 

Aspen Lafayette ‘ ^ 

Avondale La Junta ILLINOIS 

Basalt Leadville Chicago 

Berthoud Longmont Evanston 

Brighton Loveland Glenview 

Brush Manitou Springs Lisle 

Burlington Morrison River Forest 

Canon City Nucla Urbana 

Craig Ouray Villa Park 

Derby Parker IOWA 

Durango Platteville Des Moines 

Ist'es” Park R® ^£8 

ll .'KE, K„ F ° rd St. Francis 

Ft. Lupton Salida LOUISIANA 

Ft. Lyons Snowmass New Orleans 

Ft. Morgan Steamboat Springs MAINE 

Georgetown Sterling Bangor 

Gl“d y junc,ion ThS, M {t S l A n CHUSETTS 

Greeley USAF Academv lamaica Plains 

Hayden Victor Jamaica Plains 

Holyoke Ward MICHIGAN 

Hoyt Wiggins Muskegon 

Hugo Windsor MINNESOTA 

Idaho Springs Westminster St. Paul 

Indian Hills Woodrow MISSOURI 

Areas outside of Colorado in which there are Green St^Louis^ 

Thumb members: Webster Groves 

ARIZONA NEW JERSEY MONTANA 

Phoenix Camden Bozeman 

Tucson NEW MEXICO NEBRASKA 

CALIFORNIA Albuquerque Fremont 

Belvedere Los Alamos Lincoln 

Berkeley NEW YORK Hay Springs 

Buena Park Ithaca . Scottsbluff 

Castro Valley Larchmont NEW HAMPSHIRE 

Coalinga Mt. Kisco Portsmouth 


Location 

Newark 

New York City 

OHIO 

Akron 

Cincinnati 

Cleveland 

Columbus 

Lancaster 

Willoughby 

Wooster 

Zanesville 

OKLAHOMA 

Stillwater 

Tulsa 

OREGON 

Keno 

PENNSYLVANIA 
Bryn Athyn 
Emmaus 
Harrisburg 
Rosemont 

SOUTH DAKOTA 
Dell Rapids 

TEXAS 

San Antonio 

VIRGINIA 

Lynchburg 

Rapidan 

WASHINGTON. D.C. 

WASHINGTON 
Friday Harbor 
Seattle 

WEST VIRGINIA 
Morgantown 

WISCONSIN 

Appleton 

Madison 

Milwaukee 

Waushee 

WYOMING 

Casper 

Cheyenne 

Gillette 

Laramie 

Rawlins 

Yellowstone Park 

CANADA 
Morden, Man. 
Winnipeg 

ENGLAND 

Southampton 

JAPAN 

Kobe 


18 


POST HOLIDAY CARE 

FOR 

HOUSE PLANTS 

Helen Marsh Zeiner 


lVTOW that the busy holiday season 
is past, many indoor gardeners 
are discovering that their house plants 
need some special attention. Many 
plants were neglected during the holi¬ 
day rush, when the owner was too 
busy to carry out a regular schedule 
of care. Unless erratic watering and 
| general neglect has caused excessive 
leaf drop or root damage, these plants 
can be quickly rejuvenated by a regu¬ 
lar watering program and the use of 
a little fertilizer. Remember the old 
rules: check your plants for dryness 
every day, watering only those which 
you feel will be too dry before the 
next watering period. Thoroughly sat¬ 
urate the soil when you do water. 
Plants need to dry out between water¬ 
ings, but not to the extent that the 
roots can be damaged. Plants need 
fertilizer, too, and an application of a 
commercial fertilizer prepared accord¬ 
ing to the manufacturer’s directions 
and applied once a month will be 
beneficial. It is often advisable to pre¬ 
pare a solution about half the recom¬ 
mended strength, and apply this about 
every two weeks. Neglected plants 
respond well to this treatment. 

Plants which have lost their lower 
leaves and are no longer attractive as 
a result, may be cut off and re-rooted 
in moist sand, vermiculite, or perlite. 


Many plants may also be re-rooted in 
water—but in this case, pot them as 
soon as roots appear, since roots which 
develop in water are not well-suited to 
growth in soil. 

Then there are the special Christ¬ 
mas plants, which came into the home 
looking their very best, but by this 
time may need some special attention 
if they are to continue to be a satis¬ 
faction. 

Surely the poinsettia is the most 
popular of all Christmas plants, yet it 
can be a disappointment as it begins 
to drop its leaves. It can be considered 
as a cut flower and discarded when 
no longer attractive, or it can be main¬ 
tained and restored to an attractive 
plant which may or may not bloom 
again. Poinsettias like lots of water 
and should never be permitted to wilt. 
They also like a sunny, warm location. 
They resent drafts and will not toler¬ 
ate poor drainage. It is quite natural 
for the leaves to drop late in the win¬ 
ter. When the leaves begin to drop, 
let the poinsettia rest by placing it in 
the basement and watering it only 
enough to keep it from shriveling. 
About the middle of April, cut the top 
back to three or four inches, and repot 
the plant in a good loamy soil with 
plenty of drainage. Bring the pot to a 
warm, sunny location and keep well- 


19 


watered. When danger of frost is 
past, sink the pot in the garden for 
the summer. Early in the autumn, 
trim any scraggly branches, bring in¬ 
doors to a sunny, draft-free location, 
give it plenty of water and fertilize 
well. 

Poinsettias are “short-day” plants; 
that is, they will not form flower buds 
if they receive more than twelve hours 
of light. In the home, light from a 
reading lamp may extend the light pe¬ 
riod beyond this limit—a reason why 
many poinsettias do not bloom in the 
home. To overcome this, the plant 
may be covered with a dark cloth or 
removed to an unlighted room. Since 
flower buds are formed in early Octo¬ 
ber, day length should be shortened 
at this time. 

Another popular Christmas plant is 
the Christmas pepper. These cheery 
little plants like to be cool and moist, 
but must have sun—a combination 
not always easy to attain. They like 
humidity, so frequent spraying of 
the leaves is desirable. If kept too 
hot or too dry, the leaves and fruit 
may drop. If this happens, rest the 


plant until danger of frost is past, and 
then sink the pots in the garden for 
the summer. Young plants may be 
started from seed taken from the pods 
of your Christmas plant. Sow in May 
or June in small pots, repotting as 
they outgrow the pot. It is advisable 
to keep these young plants outdoors 
during the summer, bringing them in 
early in September. 

The Jerusalem cherry, a related 
plant, requires about the same care as 
the Christmas pepper. It is rather 
susceptible to drafts and drying out, 
and may drop its leaves and fruit more 
readily than the pepper. It is normal 
for it to drop its leaves and fruit in 
late February or March, however. It 
may then be cut back, rested by de¬ 
creasing the water supply, and when 
danger of frost is past planted out¬ 
doors for the summer. Jerusalem 
cherry may also be grown from seeds. 
These may be started in small pots in 
January or February, repotted occa¬ 
sionally to larger pots, kept outdoors 
over the summer, brought indoors 
early in September and kept in a cool, 
sunny location. 


MIDWESTERN SHADE TREE CONFERENCE 

The 16th annual meeting of the Midwestern Chapter, National Shade Tree 
Conference, will be held February 15-17, 1961, at the LaSalle Hotel, Chicago, 
Illinois. 

The convention, which is open to all who wish to attend, will start with 
registration at 8:30 a.m., Wednesday, February 15. 

Various aspects of shade tree care will be discussed, and a question and 
answer period will follow the presentation of each paper on the program. Tools 
and supplies used in arboricultural work will be on display throughout the con¬ 
vention. 


LEE CHAMBERS-THE TREE SURGEON 

Now a Member of the NATIONAL ARBORIST ASSOCIATION 

Specializing in good care and maintenance of your trees, 
shrubs and evergreens. 

FRemont 7-0036 Fully Licensed—Insured 850 Kearney Street 


20 


MEMBER 


IF IT’S PRIVACY YOU WANT- 

M. Walter Pesman 


TTOW often we hear the question: 
X I “What can I do to get seclusion 
in my garden?” and the answer: “Why 
not plant a row of lilacs?” 

It seems so very simple! If only it 
were, this row of lilacs would be the 
solution for ever so many new home 
owners in this region. 

Block after block of new bleak sub¬ 
divisions are being occupied by new¬ 
comers to this region. Long before 
the last payments are made, husband 
and wife are yearning for at least a 
bit of privacy! 

When a nursery salesman calls while 
the mood is on, it takes little ingenuity 
on his part to come back with an 
order for plant material. Trees and 
shrubs seem to be the answer to this 
hungering for an outdoor living room. 

Good and well. The home-owner 
will probably not be sorry that he 
made the purchase; trees and shrubs 
are needed! And yet— 

When leaves come tumbling down 
and the bare branches show innumer¬ 
able openings between them — the 
vaunted privacy is again non-existent. 
Must we then be satisfied with 
seclusion in summertime only? Ever¬ 
greens are part of the solution to be 
sure. 

It is possible to plant a hedge of 
junipers or of spruce, or even of fire- 
| thorn to fill the need. In reality the 
[possibility is rare for the new home 
owner, who has scraped together all 
the pennies he had for the first pay¬ 
ment, and who can barely manage to 
keep up the monthly remittance on 
refrigerator, T.V. and dishwasher. 
Evergreens are among the more expen¬ 
sive items of nursery stock. 

In such a dilemma it will pay us 
to do some constructive thinking, pain¬ 
ful as the process may be. (It is so 
much easier to depend on the argu¬ 


ments offered by salesmen of all sorts 
of things.) 

Luckily, this method of thinking is 
quite simple. It is based on the prin¬ 
ciple that we look in straight lines, 
and that anything interrupting this 
vision makes the object beyond that 
interruption invisible. 

To get privacy then in any particu¬ 
lar spot, we need merely place an ob¬ 
struction between ourselves and the 
people from whom we want privacy. 
The simple sketches below illustrate 
the point. 

Even without a fence we get seclu¬ 
sion on a high point as long as the 
slope down is fairly abrupt. In such 
a spot even a very low fence is ade¬ 
quate. 


The following two sketches show 
that a screen that is eye-high screens 
us effectively, unless there are open¬ 
ings in the screen—as there would be 
in a lilac hedge in winter, or an open- 
mesh fence at any time. 


The Denver Forestry & Londscope 
Company 

Call us for your Tree Spraying, Trimming 
and Removal 

In Denver Since 1918 

7505 E. Harvard PLaza 5-0363 


21 


/ 


Again, I Canf See You 


So far so good. To test the prin¬ 
ciple in your own place, just set up 
a six-foot pole to represent a tight 
fence and place it, where you want to 
provide privacy. 

The following sketch shows a typi¬ 
cal rear garden and a patio on which 
we want seclusion. Notice how a 
screen close in does just the same 
thing as a fence along the alley and 
neighbor’s property. We can save a 
great deal of expense, merely by try¬ 
ing out in which location a screen will 
be effective. 


A few feet of screen close in 
will give as much privacy as 
sixty feet of fence beyond. 


SK 6-0789 

JOHN VAN WYK 

LANDSCAPING 

New Lawns • Planting • Fertilizing 
Roto Tilling 

2101 South Adams Denver 10, Colo. 


I Can/ See Your Dog 
Bui Your Head is MisMe 


The main lesson we can draw from 
this very simple illustration is not to 
be afraid of placing a screen at odd 
locations if necessary. 

We might as well admit to ourselves 
that the whole idea of a screen has 
barely penetrated to us. Until re¬ 
cently we could only conceive of a 
boundary fence as giving us privacy. 
Keeping animals and people out bodily 
seemed synonymous with keeping them 
out visually. Now we are using good 
common sense. There might even be 
cases where a screen can be put “on 
stilts” if it provides seclusion that way. 

Just as much common sense is 
needed in the choice of a screen or 
fence. Luckily we have a number of 
types to choose from. 

For privacy the open-wire fence is 
just about useless; it is little better 
than the barb-wire fence of farms. 
“Oh, but I intend to plant sweet peas 
on it.” How much can you fool your¬ 
self? 

A little better is the picket fence of 
colonial days. It is excellent for the 
promotion of neighbors’ gossip—not 
much else. Of course, we must admit 
it is quite decorative. 

A solid high board fence gives ab¬ 
solute privacy but is apt to look for¬ 
bidding, monotonous and cheerless 
unless carefully designed. 

Almost as unattractive is the so- 
called " grape-stake” fence made out of 
rustic saplings or spilt redwood, and 
tied together. 


22 


Much in vogue recently are the 
basket-weave fences; they give priv¬ 
acy and are attractive for the play of 
light and shadow. 

Board-and-board fences, also called 
shadow fences, and popular in Japan, 

I have boards nailed alternately on one 
| side and the other; thus they give 
almost complete privacy, but admit 
air circulation. 

Louver fences are built with boards 
■ at an angle to the direction of the 
fence, thus furnishing seclusion in all 
directions except the one to which the 
boards are slanted. Good and attrac¬ 
tive. 

Lately plastic screens have come in 
the market, translucent and of various 
colors. They are being used more and 
more. If its privacy you want, here 
it is. 


What does all this add up to? The 
Green Thumb reader should make up 
his mind that his particular problem 
can best be solved by himself. Com¬ 
mon sense must guide him. 

Different fence companies (see the 
ads) handle the various types of fences 
and screens, and nurseries handle live 
plant materials. Should you want to 
get more information and have a good 
time reading up on the matter, consult 
“How to Build Fences and Gates,” a 
Sunset book by Lane Publishing Co. 
It is in the library of Botanic Gardens 
House, together with many, many 
other books on the subject. 

Again, if it is privacy you want— 
do your own thinking and you’ll come 
up with a solution that will fit your 
conditions . 


HERE IS HOW TO PRUNE GRAPE VINES 

Moras L. Shubert 


1. Prune them in late January or 
early February. 

2. Cut out the spindly canes and 
those that are too robust. 

3. Save as fruiting canes, those that 
are about one-fourth inch in diam¬ 
eter, and have good buds about 
every 4 to 6 inches. 

4. For best fruit production, save 
only about a total of 60 to 80 buds 
per vine, depending upon its vigor 
and age. 


5. If a more decorative vine is wanted, 
such as an espalier or arbor vine, 
try to keep the total number of 
buds between 70 and 130. 

6. When pruning is completed, fasten 
the vines loosely (to permit new 
growth without choking the stem). 
Use stout string or “Twistems.” 

Here are two vines that show before 
and after pruning appearances. The 
one which has only four fruiting canes, 


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jj deners who desire richer, greener turf and foliage than can be obtained from E 
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23 


each with 10 to 20 buds on it, is 
pruned in the “four-cane Kniffin” sys¬ 
tem, the other is a fan or espalier form 
of pruning. If the Kniffin system is 
used, which gives excellent fruit pro¬ 
duction, the lower canes should be 


24 to 30 inches from the ground and 
the upper two should be 48 to 60 
inches high. When the buds start to 
swell in the spring give each vine about 
one-half pound of 5-10-5 fertilizer and 
water it in well. 


THOUGHT WHILE SHOVELING SNOW 

I’m going to raise those stepping stones as soon as the snow melts: it is 
just too difficult to shave the grass in between with every shovel-full of snow! 

Take a snapshot of your garden right after a snowstorm; if it shows up 
all right in black-and-white, its design is according to Hoyle. If not, there is 
something wrong with its third dimension. This is the time to re-plan it! 

WINTERKILLING in Colorado is usually a question of drying up in 
early spring. Protect trunks and branches from the hot winter sun. 

FUNGUS trouble of the lawn may be increased by snow being piled up 
too high and too long in one spot. There is such a thing as lawn being suf¬ 
focated in winter. Give it air as soon as possible! 

WROUGHT-IRON ornaments can do much to “dramatize” the bare sur¬ 
faces of garage or near the front door. If you are artistic you can design your 
own, “contemporaneous” or otherwise. 

CHRISTMAS BOUGHS can be used for sprucing up bare winter surfaces 
of flower boxes or flower borders. Incidentally, they make a good mulch, — not 
too tight, not too soggy. 

EARLY-BLOOMING shrubs can be cut now and placed in water inside, 
to furnish these greatly-welcomed spring flowers. Cornelian cherry ( Cornus 
mas ) is particularly good for the purpose. 

Watch for Oyster-shell Scale on your lilacs. While spraying is good, you 
may be able to control some of it by merely brushing it off with a wire brush 
or burlap. Simple, but rather effective. 

M. W. P. 


Why not interest others in the Denver Botanic Gardens? 


24 


WINTER 


GARDENING 


Herbert C. Gundell 


G ARDENING can be a twelve- 
months-a-year activity for those 
i who want to make it that. A great 
many people enjoy gardening in sea¬ 
son but would rather turn their fancy 
toward other winter-time occupations. 
They certainly have a right to do this. 
But there are just a few of us, and I 
hope you are among them, who like 
to keep their bones and muscles lim¬ 
bered up, their fingers brown, and 
their thumbs an emerald green. For 
those of us, winter gardening is per¬ 
haps not as exciting an outdoor activ¬ 
ity, but one which brings us into the 
fresh air of our beautiful high plains 
| and mountain area, and lets us soak up 
some of the winter sunshine our cli¬ 
mate provides for us so abundantly. 

Among the worthwhile activities for 
winter gardening is a periodic check-up 
of soil moisture, especially around our 
newly planted trees and shrubs, as well 
as our evergreens. Evergreens in par¬ 
ticular have a tendency to require 
added moisture, more so than most 
other plants, because, on warm win¬ 
ter days or windy ones (and we have 
some of each frequently), they will 
transpire almost as much of their root- 
absorbed moisture as they would on 
a nice day in September or in April. 


Young transplanted shade, ornamental, 
and fruit trees also need this extra 
water attention during the first winter, 
when their root system is usually 
somewhat reduced after one growing 
season, and the “take” is not as ex¬ 
tensive as it might be. There are many 
good ways of watering these plants 
during the winter months. One of the 
best and easiest is the use of a root- 
waterer that allows providing water 
at a 24 to 36 inch depth in the soil 
so that the reservoir of moisture at 
that level is filled up adequately to 
carry the plants efficiently through the 
remainder of the winter. 

Have you ever tried your own prop¬ 
agation of shrubs? This is a good 
winter activity. The short cuttings are 
taken usually during the month of 
February, bundled and heeled in the 
soil for callusing. The selection of 
cuttings should be made from year-old 
growth of an established shrub in your 
garden—which would require some 
pruning anyhow. The individual sec¬ 
tions should be cut into lengths of 
about ten inches, preferably containing 
one bud at the lower end and one at 
the upper end. Insert the bundles of 
cuttings upside down in the soil, and 
leave them there until, perhaps, the last 


25 


week of April or first week in May. 
Make certain that the ground around 
these cuttings is not too dry, nor should 
it be soggy wet. Spirea, cotoneaster, 
dogwood, mock orange, and many 
other shrubs are suitable for this. 

Any time after January first is a 
good time to work over your grapes. 
Naturally, it is important that you de¬ 
termine in your own mind what the 
purpose of your grape planting is. If 
it is for fruit production only, then a 
severe pruning is necessary to main¬ 
tain productivity of the plant each 
year. If, however, your major purpose 
is to produce shade on an arbor, or 
on a similar structure in the garden, 
then you’re not inclined to prune heav¬ 
ily, you would only remove extra 
growth that interferes with normal 
traffic and circulation in the garden, 
and you would, of course, accept what 
production of fruit you would receive 
from this arbor graciously as a sec¬ 
ondary return for your good garden 
culture. 

Mid-Winter is also an excellent time 
to subject all your garden equipment 
and tools to a thorough inventory and 
check-up. If a piece of equipment is 
no longer adequately doing the job, 
or if it is somewhat beyond repair be¬ 
cause of extensive use over a period 
ol years, provisions should be made 
foi an early replacement. Don’t start 
the new garden season in spring with 
dull, rusty or otherwise partially 
“lame” garden tools and equipment. 
If you have a hand lawnmower that 
is doing a good job for you, all you 
need to do is check the adjustment 
on it and oil the moving parts. With a 
power mower it is necessary to give 
the engine a thorough check-up, a 
change of oil, and perhaps a cleaning 
out of the fuel tank so that any con¬ 
densation that may have built up in 
this during the fall and early winter 
months is not pulled through the car¬ 
buretor of the engine to cause en¬ 
gine difficulties in spring. Mid-winter 
is a good time to take your power 


mower to a licensed and qualified re¬ 
pair shop for check-up and adjust¬ 
ment, as well as possible overhaul. 
The serviceability of your mechanical 
garden equipment is subject to up¬ 
keep like your car, which runs better 
if it is given an occasional tune-up and 
lubrication. The principle is the same. 
Also, if some of your garden hoses 
require new fittings and fixtures, or 
mending, the months of February and 
March, prior to outdoor use, are ideal 
to accomplish this task. There are al¬ 
ways enough warm days during mid¬ 
winter when such equipment can be 
checked, and operated briefly to deter¬ 
mine the general condition and the 
need for repair. 

While you’re outside you might also 
check some of your vegetable and an¬ 
nual flower gardens for the condition 
of the soil. If the soil is not frozen, 
and frequently our soils do not freeze 
up very much in the more exposed 
areas, then a spading of the area in 
which you cultivate vegetables and 
flowers would be very useful and help¬ 
ful to improve your soil condition for 
the coming growing season. If you 
have some extra compost or leaves, 
or even some animal fertilizer avail¬ 
able, you may distribute this over the 
area to be spaded beforehand, and 
then turn this material under. The 
more often you turn a soil area, six 
inches deep or deeper, the better your 
soil structure and qualities will get. 
So, two or three spadings of a given 
area between October and March are 
highly desirable. 

There is also some work to be done 
at the spot where you store your non¬ 
hardy perennial flowers. Your dahlias, 
cannas, tuberous begonias, and gladi¬ 
oli should be given the once-over oc¬ 
casionally to see that they are still in 
good condition and not too warm or 
dry. If your dahlias get too dry, they 
will shrivel and you will lose a per¬ 
centage of them; so if you keep them in 
peat or similar material, moisten this 
material from time to time so that the 


26 


roots can absorb some moisture. If 
these are stored in the crawler space 
under the house, or in a root cellar, 
turn them occasionally so that if you 
have any disease build-up, you can 
eliminate the source of infestation 
early. 

Then, for evenings in the winter 
time, there is much activity by the 
fireplace. You could be ordering your 
new roses, at least glance at the new, 
delightful picture catalogues that are 
inviting you to purchase the new ones; 
you could be making a list of activities 
and when you would like to tackle 
them in the garden; you could just 
list on a slip of paper some problems 
that have bothered you this past gar¬ 


dening season, and on occasion, tap 
someone for the answer to your ques¬ 
tion when you have the opportunity. 
You could be doing a little design 
work for your arrangement of annual 
and perennial gardens this coming 
year, and you could, even, be reading 
a good book on one of many gardening 
subjects that will keep your mind and 
your heart in the garden through the 
snowy and wintry days until nature 
awakens again outdoors in the mile- 
high country. 

Editor’s note: See also our special 
articles on Vine Care, Garden Plan¬ 
ning, House Plants, and Fences, on 
pp. 17-23. 


TRAINING SCHOOL FOR PARK EMPLOYEES 

Significant trends may often have inconspicuous beginnings. The Denver 
Parks Department, on November 23, 1960 started a training school for Gar¬ 
dener-Florists in connection with the Opportunity School. Thus a dream of 
Dave Abbott and James Bible became a reality. 

It cannot help but result in a corps of capable park workers for Denver, 
a corps trained practically in park activities and basically in underlying horti¬ 
cultural and botanical knowledge. It ties in with Denver’s notable career ser¬ 
vice and will be an intrinsic part of it. Our Denver Parks will be the gainers. 

About three dozen of the most promising apprentices and foremen were 
selected for this course. It is taught by a well-known authority, M. Walter 
Pesman, landscape architect, horticulturist, teacher and writer; it will continue 
for sixteen consecutive weeks. 

Among the topics studied are growth and culture of plants, types and char¬ 
acteristics of Denver soils, plant diseases, identification of trees, shrubs and 
flowering plants, and the fundamentals of landscape planning. 

Classes are held in the City Park Greenhouses, Wednesday afternoons; 
they are already creating considerable interest. 


NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS 
WILL BE ENTERTAINED BY COLORADO, JULY 10 TO 12, 1961 

“While this part of the country, as a rule, is not in its nature open to the 
cultivation of gardens, its wild flora is remarkable enough to deserve special 
treatment.” Thus a garden book in 1924. 

Next July a number of experts will check up for themselves, how true (?) 
this statement is in 1961. The American Society of Landscape Architects will 
hold its 62nd Annual Meeting in Boulder, being entertained by the Rocky 
Mountain Chapter. More later. 


27 


The (J e.we.lA oi OpaA (TaJjjium parvicuZcitum) 

RELEASE BY GEO. W. PARK SEED CO. 


JEWELS OF OPAR 
(Talinum paniculatum) 

While not new to horticulture, this 
lovely item does not seem to be gen¬ 
erally available and our trial ground 
planting of it was so impressive and so 
attractive from the very beginning of 
the season until fall freezes killed it out 
that we decided it should be brought 
to the attention of the gardening pub¬ 
lic. It is easily grown, may be sown 
where it is to bloom or started indoors 
and transplanted to its permanent loca¬ 
tion. The seed germinates readily, the 
plants grow thriftily, withstand the 
summer heat, even in the moist humid 
conditions of the southeast, thriving 
and becoming more beautiful with each 
passing week. 

The foliage is bright, deep waxy 
green, growing about a foot high and 
forming a delightful setting for the airy 
panicled stems which rise another foot 
and a half above the foliage. Great 
multitudes of small cameo pink flowers 
are produced. The flowers open in 


early afternoon and are so numerous 
they give the plant an ethereal quality; 
because these flowers are so small and 
numerous, it seems as though you are 
looking into a pink haze when looking 
through the top of the plant. The next 
morning the flowers are all closed but 
each tip of the many branched stem 
has a ruby colored little seed ball so 
that the effect in the morning is entirely 
different though no less beautiful than 
it is in the afternoon being that of a 
ruby colored haze in the morning and 
a pink haze in the afternoon. 

These stems make delightful fillers 
for cut flower arrangements where 
buds open into new flowers each after¬ 
noon for a week or more. They are 
nice to dry for winter bouquets too. 
All this, in addition to the beautiful 
effect they give in the garden. 

We feel that this is a very choice 
flower which everyone who grows it 
will enjoy. It seems to have no insect 
or disease enemies and is so easily 
grown as to be almost fool-proof. 


28 


i 


MRS. JAMES J. WARING places a symbolic ''crown 7 ' of carnations on the head of Mrs. Giles F. Filley 
in recognition of the work of all the supervisors of the garden program last year. The shelter was a 
gift of Mrs. James J. Waring. 


DEDICATION OF CHILDREN’S SHELTER 

Vella Conrad 

The Botanic Gardens Children’s Shelter was dedicated on December 7th 
at 4 p.m. Piles of snow and subfreezing weather moved the ceremonies inside 
Botanic Gardens House. 

The newly completed Shelter across York Street was designed by the firm 
of Victor Hornbein and Edward C. White, Jr. It provides a covered patio, 
garage, space for storing garden tools and restrooms. 

The Shelter was dedicated in a brief talk by Dr. Jack Durrance, a Trustee 
of Botanic Gardens, who has been active in the Children’s Garden Program. 

Dr. Durrance emphasized the role of the Gardens in educating the youth 
of Denver. He spoke of the plans for next year to enlarge the program to in¬ 
clude 120 children. Participating in the program next year will be Girl Scouts, 
Boy Scouts, Camp Fire Girls, and Highlander Boys. 

“This Shelter is dedicated in the name of the Botanic Gardens and the 


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* •* Specialists in Tree Care 

HArrison 4-6112 


29 


City and County of Denver to the children of Denver”, said Dr. Durrance in 
concluding. 

The Shelter was a gift of Mrs. James J. Waring, who said: “The only 
thanks I want is an enthusiastic response from the children to our program — 
and this I know we shall have.” 

Mrs. Waring then placed a symbolic “crown” of carnations on the head 
of Mrs. Giles F. Filley in recognition of the work of all the supervisors of the 
garden program last year. Mrs. Filley was coordinator of the supervisors. 
Lawrence A. Long, President of the Botanic Gardens, presided at the cere¬ 
monies. The city was represented by Willard N. Greim, Manager of Parks 
and Recreation, and Dave Abbott, Director of Parks. Representing the Junior 
Red Cross was Miss Madelyn Rowley, Executive Director. Miss Cindy Chatman, 
Director of Programs and Public Relations for the Girl Scouts, and Bruce Kearn, 
District Executive of the Boy Scouts, were special guests. 

The dedication was attended by approximately fifty people including many 
trustees and a number of the children who participated in the program last 
year. 

Following the ceremonies, tea was served in the dining room. The tea 
was arranged by the Botanic Garden Juniors of which Mrs. Macintosh Brown 
is President. 


OF AUTUMN-FLOWERING 
COLCHICUM 

(Plant This Spring) 

Our autumn-flowering Colchicum is 
the source of a very valuable drug, 
Colchicine, most widely used for treat¬ 
ing gout. The drug is obtained both 
from the seeds and the bulbs of this 
lovely flower. The extract was discov¬ 
ered by the Greek physician, Alexan¬ 
der of Tralles, in 550 A.D. The drug 
was introduced to this country by Ben¬ 
jamin Franklin who had a very bad 
time with gout and who had heard of 
colchicine treatment during his stay in 
France. 


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COMPLETE LANDSCAPING SERVICE — TREES, SHRUBS, EVERGREENS 

GARDEN SUPPLIES 

OPEN SUNDAYS DURING PLANTING SEASON 


30 


LONG NIGHTS AND 
PHYTOCHROME 


M. Walter Pesman 


, We are getting so impressed lately 
' by space science that we can only be- 
:ome enthusiastic about such ques- 
‘ dons as when man will land on the 
' moon, or will place a bus station in 
r arbit from where we can take a trip 
’ :hrough the universe. 

In the meantime, plant scientists are 
doggedly going ahead with investiga- 
1 Lions on the miracles of phofosyn- 
[ thesis, of gibberellin, of colchicine and 
the fabulous creation of new plants. 

1 While we are enduring our long 
1 winter nights—no daylight saving!— 
we might interest ourselves in some 
new discoveries that are directly re¬ 
lated to the length of the night. They 
are fascinating. 

Did you realize that flowering of 
plants depends on the length of the 
! night? As simple as that! 

Chrysanthemums just will not start 
blooming until nights get long in late 
juimmer and fall. Soy-beans and late 
:orn are in the same group. So is the 
lowly cocklebur, which is often used 
for this experimentation. On the other 
hand, barley, wheat, and many other 
small grains must have short nights in 
2 arly summer for blooming. 

This discovery of photoperiodism 
as a control of flowering was made in 
1918 by Garner and Allard who sug¬ 
gested also that bird migration is deter¬ 
mined photoperiodically. 

Recently two scientists of the Agri¬ 
cultural Research Service at Beltsville, 
|Md., have pointed out that a blue or 


bluish-green pigment, now called phy¬ 
tochrome, is the active principle of 
this photoperiodism and related plant- 
growth phenomena controlled by light. 
It comes in two forms of different 
wave-lengths; the higher wave-length 
form changes in darkness to the inac¬ 
tive form of lower wave-length (660 
mu-mu). 

Phytochrome is present to the ex¬ 
tent of about one part in 10 million 
in many plant tissues. 

An article in SCIENCE, October 
28, ’60, describes in detail, how phyto¬ 
chrome was detected by the spectro¬ 
scopic method, and hints at further 
factors that influence flowering of long- 
night and short-night plants. One of 
them is a rhythmic “time sensing” by 
living organisms. Temperature changes 
also influence many photo-periodic as¬ 
pects of plant growth. It is known, for 
instance, that our brilliant colors of 
petunias are directly related to cool 
nights. The production of the plant 
pigment anthocyanin is connected with 
light and temperature. 

Here, as in many aspects of science, 
if not all, the question is raised by 
many so-called “practical” people: 
“What good is this knowledge of phy¬ 
tochrome?” Who can tell? 

Impressed as we are with the all- 
important impact of electricity in our 
mode of living, would we ask the 
similar question: “What good was Ben 
Franklin’s tinkering with a key and kite 
in an electric thunderstorm?” 


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A Complete Line 

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Phone EMplre 6-3377 


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31 


COMPOSTING 

Mrs. John Scott 


We used to live and learn. Now, we 
plan and progress. Such is the spirit 
of the Colorado Garden Show (Mar. 
26-April 2) which is adding a flower 
show to its attractions this year. Any¬ 
one may enter. That is, anyone who 
picks up an advance entry blank at 
909 York Street, home of Denver Bo¬ 
tanic Gardens. 

Amazing, really, how in a few 
months Denver Botanic Gardens has 
become the recognized hub of all Gar- 
denwheels, big or little, organized or 
individual, amateur or professional. 
Not in Denver alone, as the name im¬ 
plies, but in the area, the state, and yes, 
the United States. Denver Botanic 
Gardens with its many magnetic tenets 
is spading more and more ground. 
Are we, as Federated Gardeners, going 
to get in the groove, and pitch-in a few 
pennies toward horticulture, and the 
other cultures? All right. Then, con¬ 
vert 500 of those coppers into a mem¬ 
bership in the Denver Botanic Gardens 
and get The Green Thumb magazine 
for a whole year as a bonus. A final 
“why?” Because this publication is 
going to have what you want, when 
you wish it—timeliness. 

Returning us to a “Preview of 
Spring”, the theme of the competitive 
flower show to be staged in the Stock- 
yards Stadium. Two classes requiring 
your immediate action, in the Open 
Flower Market, or horticulture sec¬ 
tion, are the potted plants and dish 
gardens. 

The pot posies are to be shown in a 
group, not exceeding five, and to have 
been under the watering and watching 
of the exhibitor three months or more. 
The Flower Show Committee (Mes- 
dames George Kelly, E. D. Honnen, 
Jess Gibson and Mr. Lee Ashley) are 
more lenient with the dish gardens, 
permitting you to transplant them into 
a container within thirty days of the 
entry date. 


What to grow to show? Leave the 
usual, run-of-the-market indoor plant 
at home on its sill, as rarity is one of 
the factors on which a specimen potted 
plant is judged. Maturity is another 
must, so that eliminates the seedlings, 
slips and starts. Cultural perfection, or 
how it has been grown, including freedom 
from disease and insects scores high, 
whether the scale of points is from a 
plant society (African Violet, Begonia, 
Cactus and Succulent, Fern, Gloxinia, 
Herbs, Orchid, etc.) or National Coun¬ 
cil’s hand book which states: “Potted 
plants must have clean foliage and be 
symmetrical and well formed by giving 
them a quarter turn daily. . . They 
should be in a clean container (pottery 
or prettied-up not necessary. Ed.) in 
scale with the size of the plant. The 
plant must be well groomed; no seed- 
pods; no wilted flowers; no damaged 
foliage nor broken stems, and no props 
which had been used to encourage 
symmetrical form.” Whether or not to 
polish foliage is a debated point; pro¬ 
ceed at your own risk of a ribbon. 

Some houseplant authorities include: 
Mrs. Fred Shortt, Boulder; Mrs. Glenn 
Clayton, Englewood; Dr. Helen M. 
Zeiner; Dr. John Coryell and Herbert 
Gundell, all of Denver. 

The dish garden container is not to 
exceed 24 inches in any dimension 
(width, height, depth) or be less than 
ten inches. “A dish garden is a planter 
without a drain” according to Ernesta 
Drinker Ballard, in Garden in Your 
House. Montague Free, All About 
House Plants, in referring to dish gar¬ 
dens says: “They may be an idealiza¬ 
tion in miniature of a natural scene in 
woods, bog, swamp or open meadow; a 
section of a garden scene; a reproduc¬ 
tion of a desert landscape; a model of a 
formalized garden. . .” For accessories, 
Mr. Free suggests: small rocks, espe¬ 
cially those with lichens growing on 
them, pieces of bark or dead branches; 


32 


colored pebbles, shells, small figures 
land otl er purchased pieces. 

Window Sill Gardening, James Un- 
! derwood Crockett, thinks people don’t 
[ water properly. “Do not try to water 
ja dish garden by sprinkling moisture 
' on its. surface. Submerge the entire 
dish garden gently under water in a 

> pail or basin until all air bubbles cease 
r rising. Then lift the garden out, and 
1 set it on its side for twenty minutes 

or so to let the excess moisture drain 
1 out of the soil.” The Book of Planters, 

> Robert Scharff, suggests some soil aid. 
- He recommends a layer of gravel, a 
' layer of charcoal, and a layer of peat 
' moss or vermiculite, with additional 
; soil up to within one half inch of the 
5 container’s rim. He likes the soil to 
1 have mountains and valleys and rock 
i formations. Trees, he says, are the first 
1 plant problem. The dwarf Irish juniper 
; takes 15 years to attain 15 inches. All 
■ plants should have as much variety 
'as possible in form, color, type of 
5 foliage and flowering time. 

The above authors (books at Den¬ 
ver Botanic Gardens) give suitable 
’ plant material lists, and enlarge on tray 
gardening, the submerged or aquatic 
: garden, terrariums or Wardian cases, 
1 bottle gardens, and other close cousins. 
Mrs. Joseph Esterman, Denver is on 
[ the speaker’s list prepared by our state 
program and slides chairman, Mrs. 
R. E. Wright. Another authority on 
Idish gardens is Mrs. Olive Peabody, 
jDenver, who had an interesting article 
and picture captioned “Dish Garden¬ 
ing is Fun” in Horticulture recently. 

The flower arrangement section is 
challenging, too, calling for designs in 
Sniches, on pedestals, accompanying 
paintings or pictures depicting Spring 
land Holiday Tables. There’s a section 
|for dried and artificial materials, fea¬ 
turing plaques and ornaments (good 
fireside hobby before the bulbs bloom) 
jartificial arrangements of flowers, 
fruits or foliages to be shown in a 
frame on a shelf; and hanging baskets 
of blooming artificial material. There’s 


much more entry-wise, and rule-wise. 
One requirement is that lists of plant 
materials used in all classes must ac¬ 
company entry. This is surely an added 
way of educating the public and should 
be used in more shows. 

Speaking of education, the Adult 
Education Division of Englewood and 
Loretta Heights College is offering 
classes in Flower Arranging in eight 
and ten week courses. The first or ex¬ 
ploratory class aims to further art ap¬ 
preciation in general and floral artistry 
in particular; stimulate interest in gar¬ 
dening; broaden the vocabulary; pro¬ 
mote more hobbies; introduce new 
friends; assist in flower show inter¬ 
pretation; beautify home, church and 
club surroundings and be fun. 

Another class in floral decor lives 
up to its name by teaching what to put 
where, for instance, the mantel, the 
coffee table, the piano, and arrange¬ 
ments for all the rooms from bar 
(coke) to bath. The period pieces are 
covered from Classical Greece down to 
modern—abstract. Also how to use 
potted house plants in designs, without 
unpotting them. 

While the men have been interested 
in these courses, they are more enthusi¬ 
astic about a class called “Growing for 
Showing”. This suggests what to plant 
around the home, in the home, and 
away from home — church, flower 
shows, corsages. 

The classes at Loretta Heights are 
on Monday evenings and Dr. Earl 
Bach at WE 6-3423, Ext. 40 will an¬ 
swer any questions. While at Engle¬ 
wood, the classes are on Wednesday 
and Thursday evenings, and Mr. Cal¬ 
vin Orr, SU 1-7881 dispenses the in¬ 
formation. 

Some clubs are sending students to 
school to bring back the lesson to 
them. This is especially helpful for 
new clubs such as Nature’s Novices 
(Mrs. Clarence Dreiling, president); 
Patio Planters (Mrs. Donald Cook); 
Sow and Grow (Mrs. L. C. Girard) 


33 


and Valley Vista (Mrs. Thomas 
Brook). 

Now a report on clubs and cor¬ 
sages: from Mrs. John Sobiella, State 
Director. She has been called for talks 
before several church groups includ¬ 
ing Methodist, Littleton, and First 
Christian Reform, Denver. Mrs. So¬ 
biella says there are eight active cor¬ 
sage clubs in the state, and several 
more in the making. In Littleton, Petal 
Twirlers, with Mrs. D. R. Dickerson, 
leader; Perky Posy, Mrs. Howard 


Orchids for Everyone 

THE DENVER ORCHID SOCIETY 

The highlight of the 1960 activities of the Denver Orchid Society was 
the orchid show held at Botanic Gardens House on October 8 and 9. Ap¬ 
proximately 300 blooming plants and blossoms were displayed by members 

for the enjoyment of the public. The interest of Denverites in flowers, and 
particularly orchids, was demonstrated by the fact that nearly two thousand 
persons attended the show. The need for an adequate display hall for the 

Botanic Gardens was demonstrated by the long line of people slowly inching 

past the display. 


Smith; Fleur Petite, Mrs. William J. 
Griffey; (The Fleurs Petites are from 
Miraflores) and Mrs. Sobiella’s Group, 
the Floral Benders. Mrs. Margaret 
Clapton of Baseline, Boulder leads a 
club. Mrs. Carl Ferguson directs Mile- 
Hi Corsage Club. Mrs. Felix Moody 
has a club in Denver, too. Another 
group is supervised by Mrs. Marian 
Thurow, Hayden. 

A corsage to you for supporting The 
Green Thumb. 


34 


The Denver Orchid Society'was organized in 1951 and now consists of 
58 members, whose orchid-growing facilities range from window-sill installa¬ 
tions to glass greenhouses with automatically controlled heating, cooling, and 
humidifying equipment. Members vary in experience from raw beginners to 
men such as Mr. B. Walter Slagle, one of the founding members, who is chair¬ 
man of the American Orchid Society and a world-recognized authority on 
: orchids. 

The Society meets in Botanic Gardens House at 7:45 p.m. on the first 
Thursday of each month. Membership is by invitation, and persons interested 
in the culture and breeding of orchids are cordially invited to attend any meet¬ 
ing. A number of interesting programs and activities are planned for the coming 
year, including tours of members’ greenhouses, as well as another show at a 
time and place yet to be determined. 

Mr. Franklin N. McClelland, 1643 Monaco Parkway, is president of the 
i Society and further information may be obtained by either writing or calling 
him. 


NEW AND OLD BOOKS ON GARDENING 


TO BE READ ON LONG WINTER 

I EVENINGS 

HOW TO HAVE GOOD GARDENS 
IN THE SUNSHINE STATES, by 
George W. Kelley. Denver, Colo¬ 
rado, Smith-Brooks Printing Com¬ 
pany, 1957, $3.00. 

GARDEN IDEAS AND PROJECTS, 
by Richard D. Whittemore. Gar¬ 
den City, New York, Doubleday, 
1959. $3.95. 

IeXOTICA, by Alfred Byrd Graf. 
Rutherford, New Jersey, Roehrs, 
1959. $22.00. 

THE IRIS, by Leslie N. Cave. New 
York, St. Martin’s Press, 1959. 
$7.50. 

IRIS FOR EVERY GARDEN, by 
Sydney B. Mitchell. New York, 
Barrows, 1960. $4.95. 

HOW YOU CAN GROW BEAUTI¬ 
FUL ROSES, by Flower Grower. 
New York, Arco, 1959. $2.50. 

ORCHIDS FOR HOME AND GAR¬ 
DEN, by T. A. Fennell. New York, 
Rinehart, 1959. $3.95. 

THE GARDENERS WORLD, by Jo¬ 
seph Wood Krutch. New York, Put¬ 
nam, 1959. $7.95. 

DISEASES AND PESTS OF ORNA¬ 


MENTAL PLANTS, by Pascal P. 
Pirone, et. al., New York, Ronald, 
1960. $10.00. 

BOTANY FOR GARDENERS, by 
Harold William Rickett. New York, 
Macmillan, 1957. $4.50. 

PRINCIPLES OF HORTICULTURE, 
by Ervin L. Denisen. New York, 
Macmillan, 1958. $6.95. 

A TREASURY OF AMERICAN 
GARDENING, by John R. Whit¬ 
ing. Garden City, New York, Flower 
Grower, Home Garden Magazine 
and Doubleday, 1955. $6.50. 

AROUND THE SEASONS IN DEN¬ 
VER PARKS AND GARDENS, 
by S. R. DeBoer. Denver, Colorado, 
Smith-Brooks Print. Co. $2.00. 

ENJOYING AMERICA’S GAR¬ 
DENS, by Joan Parry Dutton. New 
York, Reynal, 1958. $5.00. 

GARDENING HANDBOOK, by T. 
H. Everett. New York, Arco, 1955. 
$ 2 . 00 . 

GARDEN FLOWERS IN COLOR, 
by Daniel J. Foley. New York, Mac¬ 
millan, 1956. $3.95. 

GARDENS AND GROUNDS THAT 
TAKE CARE OF THEMSELVES, 
by Amelia Leavitt Hill. Englewood 


35 


Cliffs, New Jersey, Prentice-Hall, 
1958. $3.95. 

AMERICA’S GARDEN BOOK, by 
James Bush - Brown. New York, 
Scribner, 1958. $9.95. 

PRACTICAL GARDENING, by Ol¬ 
ive Mason Gunnison. Garden City, 
New York, American Garden Guild, 
1955. $4.50. 

THE HOME OWNERS COMPLETE 
GARDEN HANDBOOK, by John 
Hayes Melady. New York, Grosset 
and Dunlap, 1954. $2.95. 

SHADY GARDENS; HOW TO 
PLAN AND GROW THEM, by 
Emily Seaber Parcher. New York, 
Prentice-Hall, 1955. $4.95. 

WHAT’S NEW IN GARDENING, by 
P. P. Pirone. Garden City, New 
York, Hanover House, 1956. $3.50. 

HANDBOOK FOR VEGETABLE 
GROWERS, by James E. Knott. 
New York, Wiley, 1957. $3.95. 


EASY WAYS TO A BEAUTIFUL 
GARDEN, by Ruth T. Gannon. 
New York, Studio Publications, 
1959. $5.00. 

GARDEN WORK CENTERS, by the 
editorial staffs of Sunset Books and 
Sunset Magazine. Menlo Park, Cali¬ 
fornia, Lane Book Company, 1960. 
$1.75. 

HOW TO BUILD PATIO ROOFS, by 
Sunset. Menlo Park, California, 
Lane Publishing Company, 1956. 
$1.50. 

SUNSET LAWN AND GROUND 
COVER BOOK, 2D EDITION, by 
Sunset. Menlo Park, California, 
Lane Book Company, 1960. $1.75. 

ENCYCLOPEDIA OF GARDEN¬ 
ING, by T. H. Everett, editor. New 
York, Greystone Press, 1960. 

THE BIOLOGIST’S HANDBOOK 
OF PRONUNCIATION, by Ed¬ 
mund C. Jaeger. Springfield, Ill. 
Chas. C. Thomas, 317 p. 1960. 


COUNTY FAIR, EVER-BLOOMING ROSE OF MANY USES 
INTRODUCED BY ARMSTRONG NURSERIES FOR 1961 


Ross County Fair 

County Fair, a completely new, easy-to-grow, low cost rose bush for mass landscape and garden use ii 
many different ways, has been introduced by Armstrong Nurseries, Inc., Ontario, California, for 1961 


36 


WHY DENVER BOTANIC GARDENS 
NEED A CONSERVATORY 

Tree ferns and coconut palms in Denver? Yes, these and hundreds of 
other tropical and subtropical plants will be familiar to the people of our region 
when Denver Botanic Gardens get a conservatory. 

What is a conservatory? In the horticultural sense, it is a kind of “glorified 
! greenhouse” in which are displayed tender exotic plants that cannot survive 
cold winters. In temperate-zone climates such a structure is an essential fea¬ 
ture of a botanic garden. Usually it is the dominant building on the grounds 
| and the focus of public interest. Without conservatories most people in the 
i United States would never have an opportunity to see or to study the rich 
[tropical vegetation of the world. Of course, botanic gardens in frost-free 
climates do not require such facilities for growing and displaying tender plants. 

The torrid zone contains some of the most colorful and most interesting 
[plants and also some of those most useful to man. When we stop to consider 
the matter we are surprised at how many products of tropical vegetation are 
j,important to us in our daily living. Yet the plants from which they are pro¬ 
duced are entirely unfamiliar to most of us. 

Plant-lovers of the temperate zone are always thrilled at the beauty of 
some of the economic plants of the tropics: the neat tea shrub; the highly 
[ornamental trees that yield coffee, cinnamon, nutmeg, chocolate and camphor; 
the stately trees that give us such fine woods as teak, mahogany and rosewood 
jand the vines that provide pepper and vanilla. Everyone is interested in seeing 
the tropical plants that produce the exotic fruits such as papaya, mango, 
mangosteen and pineapple, and the sources of such plant fibers as kapock, 

I sisal and Manila hemp. All these and many more may be seen in our own 
botanic gardens if we create a spot of tropical climate. 

Denver, perhaps more than any other large urban area in America, needs 
la conservatory. The nearest one is in St. Louis, Missouri, where the Missouri 
Botanical Garden has recently completed a magnificent new conservatory struc¬ 
ture called a climatron, at a cost of six hundred thousand dollars. Unfortunately 
that is 866 highway miles from Denver. 

Due to the altitude, Denver has shorter growing seasons than most Amer¬ 
ican cities of its size. Our out-door gardens, therefore, are attractive for only 
about four months of the year. This means that during about two-thirds of 
the time our gardens are drab and uninviting. With well developed conservatory 
plantings the Denver Botanic Gardens could have something of outstanding 
botanical and horticultural interest throughout the entire year. 

With proper lighting the conservatory could be open to the public at night. 
In our long winter evenings many people could enjoy the displays who could 
snot visit the gardens during the daytime. Few things could be more pleasant 
on a cold winter night than going from the snow into a luxuriant tropical garden 
inside a conservatory. 

I For study classes on botanical and horticultural subjects, which are a part 
of our Botanic Gardens’ educational program, a conservatory is essential. Busy 
amateur gardeners usually have time for such classes only during the winter 
■season. By that time there is little illustrative material to be seen out-of-doors. 

Year-around study of live and actively growing plants is possible in a con¬ 
servatory. It would serve not only for the Botanic Gardens’ own classes but 


37 


also as a living laboratory for teachers of biology in public and private school: 
of the city and the surrounding territory. Bus loads of classes would come t< 
the conservatory as they do to the Museum of Natural History and to the Zoo 
Out-door gardens are at their best in our area only during the time when school 
have summer vacation. Conservatory plantings could be planned to be a 
their best during the school year. 

Many tropical and subtropical plants are now offered for sale in our are; 
but there is a wealth of such material that is not ordinarily grown as hous< 
plants. A conservatory would be a means of acquainting the public with nev 
and better plants for indoor gardening and also for inducing our nurserymei 
to produce or to stock them. 

Denver Botanic Gardens with a good conservatory can be a year-aroun< 
tourist attraction. In addition to the normal tourist influx of summer, Denve 
has many conventions of regional or national importance throughout the year 
A good conservatory would be a drawing card for such meetings, just as ar< 
the Art Museum and the Museum of Natural History. The Denver Botani 
Gardens office receives many calls from visitors to the city inquiring at wha 
time the conservatory is open. They are disappointed when they learn tha 
there is no conservatory. 

The clear air of our high altitude and the many bright sunny days durin 
our winters have been largely responsible for making Denver an importan 
greenhouse center for the florist industry. These same conditions would mak 
it possible to grow here the best conservatory plants on the continent. 

With fine out-door gardens in which to grow the temperate zone plants 
the alpine garden on Mt. Goliath for arctic and alpine species and a conserva 
tory in which to display tropical and subtropical specimens, the Denver Botani 
Gardens can have in Denver and vicinity an unusual and outstanding collectioi 
of the world’s vegetation. 

A. C. Hildreth, Director Denver Botanic Gardens 


LATEST MEMBERSHIP REPORT 

Mr. Scott Wilmore of the W. W. Wilmore Nurseries has reported that 
his company has donated 162 memberships. 


You can count the number of apples on a tree, but you can’t count th 
number of trees in an apple.—Old Proverb. 


r hth o ny 

P KEESEn & sons 

4201 East lliff 

SK 6-4040 

landscaping and Contracting 

SP 7-7873 

Hi-Pressure Spraying and Tree Trimming 


Aerating Lawns 

AUTOMATIC UNDERGROUND SPRINKLING SYSTEMS 


38 


LIBERTY HYDE BAILEY 
1858-1958 

(The Father of American Horticulture) 


Not only brain power and scientific 
training made a Liberty Hyde Bailey. 
He had a driving energy, a total hon¬ 
esty, a high organization. All these gave 
an unusual ability to see a problem, 
attack it, and get his ideas across. 

Granting his 96 years, it took vast 
^organizing to reach his standing as a 
philosopher and poet, as botanist and 
horticulturist (who did much to wed 
the two fields), as traveler and plant 
explorer (128 expeditions), as teacher 
and administrator (Cornell professor 
and dean), as writer and editor (author 
of 63 books and 1300 articles). 

His schedule was 25 years for learn¬ 
ing, 25 for earning, and 25 for what 
he wanted to do. Tensions between 
Dean Bailey and Cornell administra¬ 
tion probably made the move easier, 
but he did retire in 1913 over protests 
of faculty and students, and a state¬ 
ment by Theodore Roosevelt that it 
“would be a calamity to state and na¬ 
tion.” 

Philosopher and Poet 

Bailey always lived in the future, 
each day planned, and every year’s 
program laid out on a New Year’s 
day. He never wrote memoirs or travel 
experience — he planned the next 
move. 

Botanist and Horticulturist 

Studies under William J. Beal at 
^Michigan and work under Asa Gray 
at Harvard continued the scientific 
.training begun when Bailey the child, 
read and re-read Darwin and Gray’s 
Botany. 

His study of Michigan’s sand-dune 
area was among the first, and his Cor¬ 
nell research pioneered in plant growth 
under electric lights, seed germination, 
and grape diseases. He was the author¬ 
ity on American sedges, and his 1888 
photographs of European specimens 


were pioneer work. He specialized in 
palms (the “big game of the plant 
world”), blackberries, grapes, cabbages 
and kales, pumpkins and squashes, the 
plantain-lilies. 

His main contribution was in bring¬ 
ing together botany, the “pure science,” 
and horticulture, the “applied sci¬ 
ence.” He was a founder of both the 
Botanical Society of America and the 
American Society for Horticultural 
Science. 

In a student-days’ review of a new 
catalog of Michigan plants, he urged 
“every botanist” and “every educated 
farmer” to get the book. From then 
on he worked to remedy “the lack of 
any code for horticultural nomencla¬ 
ture.” 

Gray chided him for becoming a 
horticulture professor. “I queered my¬ 
self with the whole botanical frater¬ 
nity,” Bailey recalled. Gray’s Botany 
said that garden flowers had “too much 
mixing to be objects of botanical stu¬ 
dy.” (Later, revising this classic, Bai¬ 
ley deleted the sentence.) He asked a 
Cornell botanist’s help on a grape dis¬ 
ease, but the answer was: “Is this a 
vineyard problem? Then I’ll not touch 
it.” 

Bailey called himself “a man with a 
hoe,” and kept his father’s worn hoe 
on his office wall. In his boyhood gar¬ 
den, he “grew Vick’s catalog”, all the 
seeds sold by James Vick & Son of 
Rochester. All his life he grew new 
varieties, from catalogs all over the 
world, then studied and identified them 
scientifically. 

Cornell’s Bailey Hortorium is a 
major result of this work. It carries on 
his research on cultivated plants, and 
his eagerness to provide knowledge for 
all who need it. 

His first known work was a paper 
on birds, read before the Michigan 


39 


Pomological Society when he was 15. 
(A prize was a cage of three of the 
first English sparrows in this country. 
He immediately liberated them.) His 
last book, The Garden of Bellflowers, 
came out when he was 95, and he was 
planning an encyclopedia on palms. 

In these 80 years he wrote 63 books 
and 1300 articles. He edited and wrote 
four encyclopedias and two diction¬ 


aries. He edited 117 books in a Mac¬ 
Millan series, many needing nearly 
complete rewriting. For short periods 
he edited American Garden and Coun¬ 
try Life in America, and he founded 
Gentes Herb arum. 

To Bailey’s own talents were added 
his background, his childhood environ¬ 
ment, and his era — the “century of 
horticulture.” 


HYBRID PETUNIA SEED PRODUCTION 


New Hybrid Petunia seeds may seem expensive, but there are several 
reasons for their price. Gardeners who have been accustomed to paying 10c to 
25c for a packet of flower seeds get quite a shock the first time they buy the 
new Fi hybrid petunias. 

The aristocrats of our gardens are enjoying a high degree of popularity! 
with flower lovers. Almost all florists now use the F x hybrids. The varieties are 
brighter and more beautifully colored and are more uniform and vigorous in 
their growth. 

Producing seed for hybrid petunias is a more complicated operation than 
most gardeners realize. Due to the risk of uncontrolled weather conditions, the 
petunias are pampered in greenhouses rather than planted out in fields. The Fj 
hybrids are produced by crossing individual blooms of two selected parents. 
There is a female parent from which seed is harvested and a male parent which 
produces pollen. Therefore, only half of the plants can be counted on for a seed) 
crop. Pollination between the two parents is done by hand. First, a flower on the 
female parent is opened while still in the bud stage and the stamens, which carr> 
pollen, are removed. Then, pollen must be collected from the other parent anc 
placed by hand on the pistil of the flower worked on previously. 

Such a very tiny amount of seed results from each one of these pollinations 
that one would never believe it possible to collect enough seed for sale. How¬ 
ever, it is possible for a good worker under ideal conditions laboring daily foi 
several months on one greenhouse bench to produce about a full pound of seed 

Into the costly greenhouse production of seed goes years of experimentation! 
many months of painstaking labor and much disappointment. As a result 
hybrid petunia seed runs from 3 to 12 times the value of its equal weight in gold 
Some petunia seed, like the doubles, run 320,000 seed to the ounce, others 
280,000 to the ounce. 

There are many new varieties, too numerous to mention, that you ma] 
choose from. Your seedsman can best help you in your selection. 

Few people know that one of the largest petunia seed producers is locate( 
at Paonia, Colorado, about 350 miles west of Denver. If you are ever nea 
there, stop and see this operation. 

—Mike Ulaski 


40 


3 


COLORADO GARDEN SHOW 

Stockyards Stadium 

MARCH 26 THROUGH APRIL 2 
Open Daily from 12 Noon to 10:00 P.M. 

THE SCHEDULE AND RULES FOR THE COMPETITIVE FLOWER SHOW 

MAY BE OBTAINED AT THE 

COLORADO GARDEN SHOW OFFICE, MINING EXCHANGE BUILDING 

PHONE AC 2-9861 


A ttend the Colorado Garden Show 
This Year 


Grows Better Plants in Soil, Sand or Water 

Preferred by millions of users for over 20 years. 
]<f Simply dissolve and water your house plants, gar¬ 
den flowers, vegetables, shrubs and lawn. Clean! 
Odorless! Feeds instantly. If dealer can’t supply, 
send $1 for 10-oz. can, postpaid. Makes 60 gallons. 


f HYDROPONIC CHEMICAL CO.. Copley 21. Ohio. U S.A. 


MOUNTAIN PEAT 
FERTILIZERS 

Nursery Stock and Evergreens 

McCoy & Jensen 

Nursery located 1 mi. west of South 
Wadsworth on the Morrison Road 

Morrison, Colorado 
YUkon 5-1504 


a\ 


e( 


Swingle Tree Surgery offering a complete service to preserve the Beauty 
and Health of your trees. Evergreens, and shrubs. 

SWINGLE 

TREE SURGERY COMPANY 


620 So. Dahlia 


FR 7-8123 


30 
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c (T) 
I s 

o 3 
= CL 

c/> w 

sr o 

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=> -1 


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3 •- 9n o S 

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= 3* < 2? 
< £5 = no 

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7? 


Again this winter 


"75 Years — Celebrating Our Diamond Jubilee of Service" 


A visit to our garden shop is a rewarding experience 
for the gardening enthusiast. Here you’ll find a com¬ 
plete line of garden tools, insecticides and plant 
foods and other gardening accessories ... all 
displayed in attractive surroundings. Courteous, ex¬ 
perienced people are on hand to serve you. May we 
see you soon? 


CONTINUED HOT WEATHER 

(Remember the Weather Forecasts Last Summer?) 

Come to our nursery growing field and select a shade tree 
of your choice that is up to 14-18 feet tall that we move with 
a ball of earth. These are well branched and will give you 

quick shade. 

"GROWING IS OUR BUSINESS" 


LAMEDA 


Denver's Garden Center 

2645 W. Alameda Ave. 


URSERY, Inc. 


Write or call for 
free catalogue 

WE 5-3528 


7 ^ tytew 0 76unt& 

DENVER BOTANIC GARDENS 
909 YORK STREET 

DENVER 6, COLORADO 


BLK RT 

U. S. POSTAGE 

PAID 

Permit No. 205 
Denver, Colorado 


DO NOT FOLD 

POSTMASTER: FORM 3547 REQUESTED 


BOULDER, COLORADO 

SPECIALISTS IN IRIS AND GLADIOLUS 

CATALOGUE ON REQUEST 


(^rocud-^eanne 


LIST OF ADVERTISERS 


ADVERTISER Page 

Alameda Nursery, Inc.inside back cover 


Al's Landscape Service . 68 

Barteldes Seed Co . 63 

Chambers, "Lee" — Tree Surgeon . 70 

Creative Gardens . 52 

Denver Forestry and Landscape Co . 64 

Fluken, Aileen C. — Nursery Stock . 66 

Hammer, "Lew," Inc.—Landscape 

Contractor . 50 

Hydroponic Chemical Co.—Hyponex . 61 


lliff Garden Nursery . inside front cover 

Keesen, Anthony, & Sons—Landscaping.... 55 


ADVERTISER Page 

Kroh Bros. Nurseries . 53 

Lakewood Seed & Pet Co . 73 

Marshall Nurseries . 56 

McCoy & Jensen— 

Evergreens . outside back cover 

Rocky Mountain Seed Co . 73 

Schulhoff Arborist Service . 74 

Simpson Seed Co . 64 

South Denver Evergreen Nursery . 58 

Swingle Tree Surgeons . 50,68 

Tower Nursery . 59 

Wyk, John Van—Landscaping . 64 

Wilmore, W. W., Garden Shop 


and Nursery . inside back cover 


SK 6-5656 


ILIFF GARDEN 

NURSERY 


Over 80,000 Perennials — 400 Varieties — Everything from A to Z 


CONTAINER GROWN ITEMS 


LARGE SHADE TREES 


• GROUND COVERS 

• ROCK GARDEN PLANTS 

• FLOWERING SHRUBS 

• HARDY VINES 

• ROSES 


• OAKS 

• MAPLES 

• SYCAMORES 

• LINDEN 

• MANY OTHERS 


Evergreens — One of the Best Selections in This Area! 
House Plants, Fertilizer, Potting Soil, Peat, Insecticides 


WHOLESALE AND RETAIL 


ILIFF GARDEN 

% 

SK 6-5656 NURSERY 4750 E. ILIFF 


MARCH 
Vol. 18 
No. 2 


EDITORIAL 

COMMITTEE 

M. Walter Pesman, 
Chairman 


Julia Andrews 
irs. Alexander Barbour 
Mrs. William Crisp 
Dr. A. C. Hildreth 
Fred R. Johnson 
Mrs. J. V. Petersen 
Mrs. John Scott 
Dr. Moras Shubert 
irs. James P. Steele, Jr. 

. Mrs. Edmund Wallace 

■ 

I*r. Helen Marsh Zeiner 

i Patrick Gallavan 

Mr. Everett Long 

Mrs. Everett Long 

Dr. James R. Feucht, 
Editor, pro tern 


"Tke Cfteen ~Th limit 

To conduct research on plants, both native and exotic, in 
varied plant zones of our reigon; to evaluate their economic, 
medicinal and horticultural potentials. 

To coordinate the knowledge and experience of botanists, 
horticulturists and gardeners. 

To educate the public in the best use of horticultural 
materials. 

To maintain a large collection of plant species and varieties 
for study and display. 


INDEX 


TITLE PAGE 

Calendar of Events. 48 

Gardening with Colorado Wildings IV, 

by Ruth Ashton Nelson... 49 

Roses for the Rocky Mountain Region, 

by Clyde E. Learned. 52 

Cacti Can Pull Themselves Into the Ground, 

by Moras L. Shubert. 57 

Preparing for Your Annual Flower Bed. An Interview 

with Michael Ulaski, by James R. Feucht. 58 

A Baker's Dozen of Glamorous Glads, 

by Everett C. Long. 62 

Plant Profiles, by George W. Kelly. 64 

Composting, by Mrs. John Scott. 66 

Briefing for Spring Pruning, by Lee Chambers. 69 

Giving Plants the Bloom's Rush, by Mrs. John Scott. 71 

Are You Ready for the "Bugs"? by Gordon T. Mickle. 74 

Cacti and Succulents Have Personality Plus, 

by Charlotte A. Barbour. 76 

The Annual Dinner — A Gala Event. 78 


SENT FREE TO ALL MEMBERS OF THE ORGANIZATION. 
REGULAR MEMBERSHIP, $5.00; PARTICIPATING, $10.00; 
SUPPORTING, $25.00; CONTRIBUTING, $50.00; SUSTAIN¬ 
ING, $100.00. 

Copyright 1961 

DENVER BOTANIC GARDENS, INC. 

A non-profit, privately financed Organization 

EA 2-9656 MA 3-1133, Ext. 428 

909 YORK ST. DENVER 6, COLORADO 


AT BOTANIC GARDENS HOUSE 
March 1—Botany Club. 7:30 p.m. 

March 2—Orchid Society. 7:45 p.m. 

March 3—Landscape Contractors. 7:30 p.m. 
March 6—Botanic Gardens Junior Commit¬ 
tee. 9:30 a.m. 

March 7 — Mountain View Garden Club. 
1:00 p.m. 

March 7—Tree Class. Topic: Tree Mainte¬ 
nance. Guest instructor, Charles M. Drage, 
Extension Horticulturist. 8:00 p.m. 
March 8—Colorado Federation of Garden 
Clubs State Board Meeting. 9:30 a.m. 
March 9—Rose Society. 7:30 p.m. 

March 13—Judges’ Council. 10:00 a.m. 
March 14—Citizens’ Park and Shade Tree 
Committee. 4:00 p.m. 

Herbarium Study Group. Mrs. Kalmbach. 
10:00 a.m. 

Evergreen Garden Club. 7:30 p.m. 

March 15 — Fun With Flowers Workshop. 
10:00 a.m. 

March 16—“Around the Seasons” Garden 
Club. 10:00 a.m. 

March 17—Botany Club. 7:45 p.m. Guest 
Speaker: Mrs. Helen L. Cannon, Geolo¬ 


gist. Subject: Botanical Method of Pr< 
pecting for Ore. 

Landscape Contractors. 7:30 p.m. 

March 20—Denver Botanic Gardens Bo* 
Meeting. 7:30 p.m. 

March 21—Tree Class. Topic: Tree Inse 
and Diseases and Their Control. Gu 
Speakers, Gordon T. Mickle, Extensi 
Entomologist, and W. J. Henderson, I 
tension Plant Pathologist. 8:00 p.m. 

Don’t Forget the Garden Show Stockya 

Stadium, March 26-April 2. 

April 3—Botanic Gardens Junior Comn 
tee. 9:30 a.m. 

April 4—Mountain View Garden Club. 1: 
p.m. 

April 5—Botany Club. 7:30 p.m. 

April 6—Orchid Society. 7:45 p.m. 

April 7—Landscape Contractors. 7:30 p.r 

FLORAL DESIGN CLASSES 
AT LORETTO HEIGHTS COLLEGI 

March 8-13—Registration. Loretto Heig 
College. Phone: WE 6-3423, Ext. 40. 

March 13—Classes. 6:00 p.m. to 7:50 p. 
and 8:00 p.m. to 9:50 p.m. 


INFORMATION concerning meetings to be published in the Calendar of Events m 
be sent to the editor before the 10th of the preceding month of publication. 

NOTE: Dr. E. H. Brunquist is a new member of the Herbarium Committee. 

CORRECTION: Mrs. H. I. Newman’s name was inadvertently omitted from the 1 
of Herbarium helpers in the Jan.-Feb. issue of the The Green Thumb. 


FSESTA • PLANT AUCTION 


What Is a Fiesta? 


In Spanish it is a feast or a holiday. 


We are going to have an AMERICAN FIESTA which will be both a feast and a 
holiday! 

When? — On May 20th, 1961. Where? — At the Botanic Gardens House, 909 
York Street, Denver, Colorado. 

Here You Will Find . . 

• the most delectable food • rare and unusual plants at the plant auction 

• new ideas for your garden • things for easier gardening 

• gifts from America's far-flung states and possessions—Hawaii, Samoa, Alaska 
(Our buyers are already in the market) 

You may even find a treasure from your grandmother's attic, stolen by her grand¬ 
daughter for this occasion. 

Oh, I almost forgot! You will also find pretty girls. 


48 


GARDENING WITH COLORADO 

WILDINGS IV 

Ruth Ashton Nelson 


Tall Deciduous Shrubs for 

pHERE are several good, tall native 
shrubs which can be used effec- 
ely in moist or shaded locations on 
ge grounds. These may sometimes 
I used successfully on small places if 
fir individual characteristics are 
jidied and considered in the planting. 

(The shrubs described in this article 
jjll thrive with the amount of water- 
K given the average garden and cul- 
jated shrubbery. If your garden is 

I a slope with lawns and gardens 
tave you, you may find as I do, that 
fier shrubs are once established they 

II receive a considerable amount of 
fisture as sub-irrigation in the form 
| drainage from the higher ground. 
Imetimes it is worth taking this into 
|:ount. 

In growing native plants it is helpful 
| realize that conditions of moisture 
d light may often be balanced by a 
se gardener. For instance, the Pin 
lerry will stand considerable sun if 
'undant moisture can be supplied, 
it in a shaded location it will do well 
th much less moisture. This is also 
le of the Water Birch. The same 
jory applies to the sun and shade re- 
irements of plants from high abi¬ 
des. The native Mountain Ash and 
id-berried Elder which thrive in full 
a at ten thousand feet should be giv- 
j partial shade plus plenty of mois- 
*e when brought to locations at five 
six thousand feet. All in this group 
i fairly rapid in growth. None is 
tremely long lived; but because they 
j clump forms (except the cherry), 
?y will survive almost indefinitely if 
7 en good care. After maturity the 
lest trunks should be removed peri- 
ically and the young shoots kept 
nned. 

Our Rocky Mountain Maole, Acer 
ibrum, grows in a graceful clump 
out 6 to 12 feet tall. Its several 


Moist or Shaded Locations 

trunks are clothed in smooth, gray 
bark and the young twigs, and especi¬ 
ally the winter buds, are bright red. 
The dainty leaves are sharply toothed 
and may be only deeply three-lobed or 
completely separated into three leaflets. 
If you look at it closely when the buds 
are breaking in early spring you will be 
delighted by its small chartreuse flow¬ 
ers. It has a rather open habit of 
branching so it is not as useful for 
screening as some other shrubs but is 
effective in a natural shrubbery border 
or as a specimen. 

As a small tree for a shaded, moist 
situation the Pin Cherry is very attrac¬ 
tive. It will be covered with masses of 
creamy flowers in spring with bright 
cherries, delicious for jelly, in mid¬ 
summer and with rose-tinted leaves in 
fall. Bark on the young branches is 
dark brown and glossy, resembling 
that of our Water Birch but on the old 
trunks it becomes grayish black with 
an interesting checkered pattern. In 
the wild it is an understory tree with 
cottonwoods along our canyon bot¬ 
toms. Curiously it sometimes appears 
as a low, scattered shrub on exposed 
gravel banks at high altitudes. It is 
useful in a narrow, shaded area be¬ 
tween buildings, where a small tree is 
needed. Because of its horizontal 
branching it develops an interesting 
flattened or rounded crown and is very 
valuable where light summer shade is 
desired, as over an informal naturalized 
planting. I think that with a little care¬ 
ful shaping it could well be used as a 
specimen to give an oriental effect in 
a small garden. 

There is a native pussy willow which 
is very lovely, the Blue Stem Willow. 
Salix irrorata. This is found growing 
along the lower canyon streams of the 
eastern slope most commonly between 
the altitudes of six and seven thousand 


49 


feet. Its branches are covered with a 
bluish waxy coating and thickly set 
with silver pussies. As with most wil¬ 
lows, it roots easily. If you bring in 
a few twigs in March and put them in 
water in the house you can later plant 
the rooted stems. It grows rapidly but 
may be kept to the size desired by cut¬ 
ting branches for indoor decoration. It 
is subject to the same scale and other 
pests and diseases that attack cultivated 
willows, but these may be kept under 
control by spraying and pruning. If a 
willow becomes very badly infected it 
pays to take it out completely and start 
another in a different place. 

My favorite of all the native shrubs 
is the Water Birch, Betula fontinalis. 
This graceful clump birch which grows 
about 8-12 feet tall, is found in abun¬ 
dance along most of our mountain 
streams from the foothills to timber- 
line. Its dark brown, glossy bark has 
the birch markings and its twigs are as 
dainty as its white-barked relatives. 
This thrives in cultivation and while it 
appreciates plenty of water it will do 
well under ordinary garden conditions. 


It is most attractive grown as a spec 
men so that its beautiful fountain for 
may be seen to best advantage. If yc 
are fortunate enough to have a mode 
ate size stream or pool, nothing cou 
be lovelier than a Water Birch at i 
margin. In autumn the leaves turn 
clear, light yellow. 

A Rocky Mountain Hawthorn 
Crataegus sp., has bright, glossy leav 
and dark reddish berries and is w< 
worth growing. Other native shru 
from higher altitudes with which an 
one interested could experiment, a 
the Red-berried Elder, Sambucus p 
bens, and the Mountain Ash, Sorb 
scopulina. 

Small, rooted shoots of any of the 
shrubs can be collected in the wild ai 
nursed along in your garden for se 
eral years until they reach an attracti 
form and size but it is easier and i 
suits come much more quickly if pr 
fessionally grown plants are use 
These are now available from sevei 
nurseries which are responding to t 
demand for native plant material. 


Preserve the Health and Beauty of Your Trees With Swingle Care 

SWINGLE 

TREE SURGEONS 

620 SOUTH DAHLIA • DE 3-4417 • FR 7-8123 


“The crocus, first gem of the earth in spring, we prize for its beauty on 
but the little bloom was once valued for other reasons. The stigmas of t 
saffron crocus, the fall variety, were a cordial, and the juice of the flower \* 
esteemed by the women of Rome as a hair-dye, for which latter reason it \* 
disapproved by the fathers of the Church.” — Myths and Legends of Flowe 
Trees, Fruits and Plants by Charles M. Skinner. 

Landscape Contractor L. D. “LEW” HAMMER Tel. WE 5-59 


50 


jar Ed, 


Why is it that we don’t grow Indian 
Lintbrush in our gardens? It would 
such a good plant for rock gardens, 
'e heard that Indian Paintbrush is a 
aprophyte,” what does this mean? 

Sappy. 

jar Sapiens, 

Wise you are! A saprophyte is a 
mt that derives its nourishment from 
n-living organic matter. It is not 
rrect to call Indian Paintbrush a 
prophyte. According to Professor 
irton O. Longyear in his book 
Locky Mountain Wildflowers,” Paint- 
ush is a semi-parasite. His studies 
/ealed that the roots of this plant 
ach themselves to and kill roots of 
asses and certain other plants. 

Growing Paintbrush under cultiva- 
n has concerned botanists through- 
t the world. The Department of 
>tany at the University of Denver is 
nducting research on this plant and 
report will appear in The Green 
lumb as soon as some conclusive re- 
!ts are reached. 


;ar Plant Lover, 

Our outdoor planter has an east by 
r’east exposure. We thought that tu- 
rous begonias would thrive there but 
jy seem to get too much sun and 
nd. What do you suggest we plant 
this location? 

Eager Ear. 


Dear Eager Ear, 

Depending upon the size and depth 
of your planter, Dwarf Alberta Spruce 
might provide a suitable plant for this 
location—and it will give lasting effect 
the year around. Winter Jasmine, if 
the wind isn’t too drying, gives yellow 
fragrant blossoms in February. Euony- 
mus kewensis, another vine-like plant, 
holds its leaves all winter but will not 
usually bear flowers or fruit. 

Why not make a wish with Torenia, 
the wishbone flower? This is an an¬ 
nual that you can grow from seed in 
your cold frame or buy at your garden 
shop. While not as decorative as be¬ 
gonia, it has beautiful velvety-purple 
and yellow, snapdragon-like blossoms * 
Torenia attains a height of six or eight 
inches and will bloom all summer if 
you periodically remove the withered 
flowers. 


Dear Garden Friend, 

Each year the roadside stands offer 
lovely little yellow-green evergreen 
trees whose branches look like they’ve 
been pressed in a book. Jaundice must 
have taken over our tree because it 
finally succumbed. What ’appened? 

Dead Tree. 

Dear Dead Tree, 

Your yellow-green trees are prob¬ 
ably a species of arborvitae (Thuja) 
shipped in from Texas. Their mortal¬ 
ity rate here parallels an epidemic of 
jaundice. Occasionally arborvitae will 
survive in this area if planted on the 
north or east side of a building. Those 
that do survive, however, are probably 
a species different from the species 
brought in from Texas. 

Some years ago Frank Richards 
propagated arborvitae from cuttings of 
a 25-year-old specimen growing in 
Fort Collins, Colorado. Many of these 
are found growing in the Denver area. 

What a boon our Botanic Garden 
research can be to lovers of arborvitae 
and many other ornamental plants that 
may be successful here. 


51 


ROSES FOR THE ROCKY 
MOUNTAIN REGION 

Clyde E. Learned 


During recent years many new and beautiful roses have been introduce 
most of which grow well in this region. However, there are a few which do r 
do well here. Although this is an area of light rainfall and low humidity we c 
fortunate in being close to the mountains and therefore we have plenty of wai 
for irrigation. We are blessed with lots of clear days and plenty of sunlight a 
our cool nights are something our roses enjoy. 

Rose growing in this Rocky Mountain region is quite different from tf 
of the eastern states and the Pacific Coast areas. However, after a year or t\ 
of experience here, and with a little patience, one discovers that it is possit 
to grow beautiful roses. Our roses may not be as plentiful and as big as the 
grown in the East and West, but for real quality and beauty, they will probat 
surpass those grown in many of the other states of this nation. 

One big factor in our favor is our relative lack of insects and disease, 
course we do have both, but not in the amount our Eastern and Western nei£ 
bors do. Black Spot is practically unknown and the destructive Japanese Beet 
are so few as not to be much of a problem. Most insects and diseases can 
easily controlled by periodic spraying and dusting. 

To be truthful we do have one serious drawback, and that is in connecti 
with our erratic springs with their wide and rapid fluctuations in temperatu 
During spring we often have a spell of warm growing weather in April, follow 
by a snowstorm, or rapid drop in temperature and a heavy frost. These con' 
tions even have occurred during the fore part of May. After a few experienc 
with this kind of weather, one gets organized to combat these unfavorable hi 
penings, so that the end results are not too damaging. 

A recent issue of the American Rose Magazine, the official publication 
the American Rose Society, includes a summary of the best roses grown duri 
1960 in the “PARK OF ROSES” the spacious and beautiful gardens of 1 
American Rose Society at Columbus, Ohio. 

A review of these tabulations indicates, in most cases, that the roses tl 
do well in Ohio, also do well in our Botanic Gardens at City Park and 9 
York St., as well as in many private rose gardens, in and around Denver. 


See the Pan American Snapdragons 


and Petunias in bloom . . . . 

at the 

(Colorado 

(jarden ^how 

See Us for the Seeds 

and Peat Pots to Start Your Own 

CREATIVE GARDENS 

HA 2-1481 

55th & Wadsworth BYPASS! 


52 


I 


A summary of the results in the Columbus, Ohio, gardens which are ar- 
lged according to perfection follows: 


Hybrid Teas 

Sutter's Gold 
Chrysler Imperial 1 
Charlotte Armstrong 
Tiffany 


Floribundas 


Climbers 

Improved Blaze 


Grandifloras 


Spartan 2 

Frensham 

Vogue 

Baby Blaze 

Ivory Fashion 

Ma Perkins 

Masquerade 

Fashion 

Red Pinocchio 

Independence 


Dean Collins 3 
Queen Elizabeth 
Starfire 


New Dawn 
Spectacular 
Cl. Spartan 4 


Carrousel 
Montezuma 
Buccaneer 
El Capitan 
Golden Girl 
Roundelay 
June Bride 


Peace 
j Mirandy 
1. Rubaiyat 
l. Angel Wings 


Don Juan 
Blossom Time 
Parade 
Cl. Fashion 
Golden Showers 


Garden Party 
Tally Ho 


The report indicates that the roses in 1960 were the best since the park 
^ened in 1953 and that the judging as to priority was very difficult. 

Regarding the Columbus tabulations, all of the Hybrid Teas listed do well 
5 Colorado with th^ possible exception of “Angel Wings,” which although a 
ry beautiful rose, has not been a very vigorous grower or heavy bloomer. 

( In the Floribunda group, all roses listed, do exceptionally well in the Rocky 
> auntain region. 

1 In the Grandiflora group all of the roses have done well with the possible 


Iception of “Dean Collins,” which instead of topping the list would probably 


at the bottom in Colorado. This rose has a National rating of 6.9, indicating 
lit it is only a fair rose, and in most instances in Colorado it has been very 
( lappointing. 

In the Climber group, the “Improved Blaze” would also head our list, 
flowed by “New Dawn” or “Paul’s Scarlet.” I have seen a few Climbing 
Jartans in Denver and they are very attractive and appear able to withstand 
| r winters. 

Although the rose “Golden Showers” was an All-American Selection as a 
imber in 1957, it has not shown much promise in this region. It actually is 
Pillar rose and tends to freeze back each winter. As for the remainder of the 
Umbers listed, reports at this time are rather meager as to their ability to with- 
und our winters. 

Based on the opinions of our Denver Rose Society members and the results 
]| the Denver Botanic Gardens in City Park and at 909 York St., as well as 
{/ observations of many private gardens, the following recommendations are 
ide regarding a selection of Hybrid Teas, Floribundas, Grandifloras and 
imbers which will do well in this Rocky Mountain region. 


i the Hybrid Teas—Usually Chrysler Imperial has been tops, 
i the Floribundas—Spartan has headed the list for four years straight, 
i the Grandifloras—Dean Collins has headed the list for three years straight, 
i the Climbers—Climbing Spartan made an excellent showing. 


KROH BROS. NURSERIES 

Preferred Nursery Stock for the 
Rocky Mountain and Plains Regions 
ONE MILE NORTH OF LOVELAND HIGHWAY 287 


P. O. Box 536 


Loveland, Colorado 


Drop Card for Our Current Catalog 


53 


The Hybrid Teas are: 


1 . 

Cultivar Name 

Peace 

Flower Color 

Yellow Blend 

Fragrance* 

s 

National Rating i 

9.6 

2. 

Crimson Glory 

Dark Red 

V 

9.1 

3. 

Charlotte Armstrong 

Light Red 

F 

9.0 

4. 

Tiffany 

Pink Blend 

V 

8.8 

5. 

Chrysler Imperial 

Dark Red 

V 

8.8 

6. 

Helen Traubel 

Pink Blend 

F 

8.7 

7. 

Confidence 

Pink Blend 

F 

8.3 

7.6 

8. 

Show Girl 

Medium Pink 

F 

9. 

Eclipse 

Medium Yellow 

F 

8.1 

10 . 

Rubaiyat 

Light Red 

V 

8.2 

11. 

Mme. Henri Guillot 

Red Blend 

S 

8.4 

12. 

Tally Ho 

Light Red 

V 

8.4 

13. 

Sutter's Gold 

Yellow Blend 

V 

8.1 

14. 

Pink Favorite 

Medium Pink 

S 

8.3 

15. 

Garden Party 

Yellow Blend 

S 

7.7 

16. 

Nocturne 

Dark Red 

V 

8.1 

17. 

First Love 

Light Pink 

S 

8.0 

18. 

Mirandy 

Dark Red 

V 

7.7 

19. 

Mojave 

Orange Blend 

F 

7.4 

20. 

Mission Bells 

Pink Blend 

F 

7.8 


*Fragrance — V - Very Fragrant; F - Moderate; S - Slightly. 

One of the All-America Selections for 1961 is the Hybrid Tea “Due! 
which is a two-tone salmon pink. This is a very beautiful rose and showed i 
very well in Colorado gardens where tested. 

The Floribunda Roses appear to be getting more popular each year. The: 
roses are used very effectively where a mass effect, as in a border or hedge, 
desired. 


DUET—1961 All America Selection Hybrid Tea.— 
Photo courtesy of Armstrong Nurseries. 


PINK PARFAIT—1961 All American Selectij 
Gandiflora.—Photo courtesy of Armstrong Nu 
eries. 


54 


The Floribundas are: 


Cultivar Name 

Flower Colorado 

Fragrance 

National Rating 

1. Spartan 

Medium Red 

V 

8.3 

2. Red Pinocchio 

Dark Red 

F 

8.8 

3. Frensham 

Dark Red 

S 

8.6 

4. Vogue 

Pink Blend 

S 

8.2 

5. Fashion 

Pink Blend 

F 

8.9 

5. Jiminy Cricket 

Orange Blend 

V 

7.6 

7. Betty Prior 

Medium Pink 

F 

9.0 

8. Donald Prior 

Medium Red 

F 

8.3 

9. Eutin 

Dark Red 

S 

8.6 

D. Ivory Fashion 

White 

F 

8.0 

1. Floradora 

Medium Red 

S 

8.2 

2. Permanent Wave 

Light Red 

S 

8.1 

3. Dagmar Spath 

White 

F 

8.2 

4. Independence 

Medium Red 

F 

8.2 

5. Circus 

Yellow Blend 

F 

7.8 

6. Ruby Lips 

Medium Red 

S 

7.6 

7. Ma Perkins 

Pink Blend 

V 

7.9 

8. Else Poulsen 

Medium Pink 

S 

7.6 

9. Masquerade 

Red Blend 

S 

7.8 

0. Starlet 

Medium Yellow 

S 

7.9 


During recent years a new group of roses has been created which have per- 
ormed very well in this region. These are the Grandifloras which are a cross 
etween a Hybrid Tea and a Floribunda. In general these roses are a little 
filler than the Hybrid Teas and although some varieties in this group do have 
of tendency to cluster, they for the most part, have long individual stems which 
re long enough for cutting and are excellent for exhibition purposes. 


The most popular of these Grandifloras in Colorado are: 


Cultivar Name 

Flower Color 

Fragrance 

National Rating 

1. Queen Elizabeth 

Medium Pink 

F 

9.0 

2. Carrousel 

Dark 

F 

9.0 

3. Starfire 

Medium Red 

F 

8.1 

4. Montezuma 

Light Red 

S 

8.5 

5. Roundelay 

Dark Red 

F 

8.0 

6. El Capitan 

Medium Red 

S 

7.9 


The second of the All-America Selections for 1961 is the Grandiflora “Pink 
arfait.” This is a two-tone apple blossom pink rose with excellent bloom and 
bliage. This rose also showed up well in Colorado gardens where tested, and 
ndoubtedly will be one of the best of the popular Grandifloras in the next 
ear or two. 


HllTHOnY/9 KEESEIi & SODS 

^^ 4 *.andscaping and Contracti 

Hi-Pressure Spraying and Tree Trimming 


4201 East lliff 
SK 6-4040 
SP 7-7873 


n 9 


Aerating Lawns 

AUTOMATIC UNDERGROUND SPRINKLING SYSTEMS 


55 


The three most popular climbers in the Rocky Mountain region are: 


Cultivar Name 

Flower Color 

Fragrance 

National Rating 

i. 

Improved Blaze 

Medium Red 

s 

8.1 

2. 

New Dawn 

Light Pink 

s 

8.8 

3. 

Paul's Scarlet 

Medium Red 

s 

9.1 


The first two of these are everblooming, whereas the third, “Paul’s Scarlet, 
is limited to one burst of blooms in early summer. From the results I have seer 
1 believe anyone would be safe in planting a “Climbing Spartan” which is a ver 
attractive rose. Although many climbing Hybrid Teas have been introduced i 
recent years, most of them do not have the winter hardiness to withstand one c 
our tough Colorado winters, unless they are planted in a well protected locatior 

For those who are not familiar with the American Rose Society Nations 
Ratings it might be well to point out that a rose with a rating of ten would b 
considered a perfect rose. Incidentally Peace with a rating of 9.6 and Crimso 
Glory with a rating of 9.1 are the two top rated Hybrid Teas in America. 

Roses with ratings of 9 or over are outstanding, from 8 to 8.9 excelleni 
7 to 7.9 good, 6 to 6.9 fair and 5 to 5.9 questionable. A rose with a rating belo^ 
5 would be considered poor, and would not be classed as a good buy. 

Every year many questions are asked about the growing of Tree Roses i 
Colorado. The answer is, don’t attempt to grow them here unless you plan t 
perform a large amount of winter protection work. Even then, in all probability 
your efforts will be in vain. 

If you are planning to put in a rose garden or make extensive additions t 
your garden, it is suggested that you visit the Denver Botanic Gardens at Cit 
Park and 909 York St. at least two or three times during the season to witnes 
the gorgeous display of the “Queen of Flowers.” Such visits would give you 
wonderful opportunity to inspect and select for your garden the roses that appea 
to you. 

In making your first selection of roses, it is not necessary for you to hav 
the latest and most expensive All-America selections. Without doubt you wi 
have just as much success if you first try out some of the older and less expensiv 
favorites, which have stood the test of time, and on which the patents havl 
expired. These old favorites which are still top rose show winners include Crirr 
son Glory, Charlotte Armstrong, Christopher Stone, Pres. Herbert Hoove: 
Eclipse and many other excellent roses. 

When it comes to buying roses, it is well to buy from the old line nurserie 
which specialize in roses or from reliable local nurseries and seed stores, all c 
which guarantee their roses and will replace them if they are planted according 
to directions and do not live. It is a mistake to buy bargain roses which ail 
usually inferior plants or culls, or the left over dried out stock at the end of th 
season. The same is true of the so-called bench roses which are sold at a ver| 
cheap price by the hot houses at the end of the growing season. 


MARSHALL NURSERIES 

Better Built Trees — Landscaping with Personality 

5825 W. 16th Avenue BEImont 7-0445 


56 


CACTI CAN PULL THEMSELVES 
INTO THE GROUND 


Moras L, Shubert 


^ACTUS plants that are adapted to 
desert climates have a rather 
lique habit of growth which is appar- 
itly not known to many people. Even 
e technical reports do not seem to 
jscribe the interesting trait which we 
ive observed. 

Sometime around 1950 my wife 
nought two small cactus plants home 
3 om a meeting of the Home Garden 
lub. Each was about an inch tall, 
!t|id they were planted in separate, but 
jually ugly, little Toby mugs. Both 
; the plants were decorated with tiny 
raw flowers, the stems of which were 
:mly punched into the tops of the 
ictus plants. These details are im- 
prtant, and it is fortunate that I did 
Dt follow my first impulse which was 
tft remove the strawflowers and to re- 
iant the cacti into small flower pots, 
his is one time when procrastination 
lelded unexpected results. 

For several years I watered these 
vo little plants very infrequently, since 
V£ jwanted to keep them healthy, but did 
dpt want to let them grow too large 
Jpr their small containers. Then one 
Jay I was surprised to see that I got 
J drop of water on one of the straw- 
Jpwers even though I was watering 
tern with a tube held near the base 
f the plant. It suddenly dawned on 
le that the strawflower had moved 
ojawn the side of the plant! A quick 
Ueck of the other plant showed me 
rjiat the same thing had happened to 

! . Now that I was watching this queer 
henomenon more critically, I found 
iat I could trace the movement of 
roups of spines (thorns) down the 
de of the plants. 


It was then quite obvious what was 
appening. The growing point of each 
lant, as in most plants, was right in 
le center of the tip of the stem. New 
ssues are produced there, and when 
le plant gets plenty of water it con¬ 


tinues to grow taller. But if the water 
supply is restricted the cells around the 
lower part of the plant shrink and the 
epidermis is drawn down by this 
shrinkage. The diagram will show 
more clearly than words what happens. 


rowing 


Pom l 


Flo we r Here 
af 

be g i nm naj 


J* bhrtnkage 

f * 

Oui er Tissues 
Toward Confa/ner 


It appears from this observation that 
you can keep a cactus plant growing 
almost indefinitely without its getting 
larger. This should be of some prac¬ 
tical value to those of you who have 
succulents in planters and do not 
want them to outgrow their containers. 
I cannot say this principle will work 
for plants other than true cacti, and 
only the desert species at that. 

At any rate this seems to give sup¬ 
port to an old Indian observation that 
“during dry periods a cactus will pull 
itself into the ground to escape the 
drought”. We laughed when we first 
learned of this and filed it with the 
baseless superstitions. But now we be¬ 
lieve that those Indians were making a 
true scientific observation. 

See also : “Cacti and Succulents 
Have Personality Plus.” Page 76 


57 


PREPARING 
FOR YOUR 
ANNUAL 
FLOWER BED 


From an interview with Michael Ulaski, 

Superintendent of the City Park Greenhouses 
by James R. Feucht 

Planting season is not very far away. March is a good time to begin pre 
parations for the annual flower garden you have dreamt about all winter long 

By this time you may have already planned the garden and have orderec 
the seed but if not, now is the time to do it. Why now? First, seeds of some o 
the more desirable annuals may be difficult to obtain locally and time must b< 
allowed for mailing of seed from other parts of the United States. This i 
particularly true of some recently introduced varieties of annuals such as Celosia 
Verbena and several others. Secondly, for early flowering of annuals, plantinj 
at the optimum time is a must. 

How may I obtain my annual seed? Mr. Ulaski suggests consulting you 
local seed dealer and if some desired varieties are not available, chances an 
that the dealer can tell you where they may be obtained. 

When ordering seed be sure to specify the variety exactly as it is indicate< 
in the catalog. Some will be listed by a code number but usually they are liste< 
by cultivar (cultivated variety) name such as Begonia ‘Christmas Cheer’, Lobeli 
‘Blue Gown’ etc. 

To aid you in selecting your annuals, Mr. Ulaski has prepared a list o 
some of the selections that will be used this year in the Denver city parks. Thij 
list, included at the end of the article, is not complete by any means but include 
many of the annuals that are relatively easy to grow and provides sufficient colo 
variation to enable you to plan several good color schemes. 


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58 


After you have decided what to plant and have the seed, the next procedure 
of course, to plant the seed. 

To prepare for seed planting, first obtain some shallow containers such 
s metal pans, wooden flats, or even large, relatively shallow flower pots, 
jenerally, 4 inches is deep enough. The dimensions of the container will depend 
pon the amount of seed you wish to plant and the amount of available space 
ar starting them in your home. Into each container place clean, well drained 
oil or vermiculite. Most garden shops carry packaged soil of suitable quality 
nd sell vermiculite by the bag. The soil or vermiculite should be tamped firmly 
1 the containers but not so hard that poor drainage results. When using soil, 
ay particular attention to the edges of the container, because this area dries 
ut first and if not firmly tamped in place, will shrink, and crack. 


If the seed is very small, for example, petunia, verbena, and portulaca, 
catter evenly but not too heavily over the surface of the medium. Do not 
over. Watering will tend to “wash” them into contact with the medium, or the 
eed may be lightly pressed into the soil surface. Larger seed may be planted 
i rows and covered to a depth of about the diameter of the seed unless other¬ 
wise indicated on the seed packet. Above all, label the rows and containers well 
|o that you will have no doubt as to the identity of the seedlings when they 
erminate. 

When should you plant the seed? This depends somewhat on the species 
i'Ut generally, early April sowing allows sufficient time for the seeds of most 
nnuals to germinate and grow to transplanting size by the time they can be 
Wanted in the garden. Some annuals such as lobelia, gomphrena and others, 
jhould be planted earlier. If sown too early, the plants often get too big for the 
ontainer. This results in overcrowding which produces spindly plants. 

When the seeds have been sown, water thoroughly by using a fine mist to 
jvoid “washing-out” the seeds. A clothes sprinkler will serve the purpose or a 
horoughly cleaned “Windex” sprayer. Be certain that the medium is moist to 
he bottom of the container. 

. 

Place the seed containers in an unshaded south or east window for 
termination. 

If a piece of glass or polyethelene is used to cover the container, usually it 
will not be necessary to water again after the initial watering until the seeds 
tave germinated. Allow for some ventilation by propping one end of the glass 
ip slightly with a small stick or, if plastic is used, make some small openings 
n the material. A paper punch works well for this purpose. 

When the seeds are starting to germinate, increase the amount of ventilation 
i little each day until most of the seeds have germinated. At this time, remove 
he covering completely and check to see if more watering is needed. 

Try to maintain the temperature of the room at 65 to 70 degrees F. If 
he sun shining through the window becomes too hot, periodical shading will 
ielp. 


TOWER NURSERY 

17050 Smith Road, Aurora, Colorado 

A Complete Line 
of container grown Nursery Stock 

GREENHOUSE 

2060 Tower Road 
Phone EMplre 6-3377 


59 


After the danger of frost has passed (usually May 20 in the Denver area^; 
place the containers outside but in a partially shaded place for a week. Graduall 
give them more sun each day and finally, give them full sun. This will ten 
to “harden-off” the seedlings and prepare them for the shock of transplanting 


Transplanting may be done at any time after this but try to do it on j 
cloudy, relatively cool day. Water the plants in well. Starter solutions (wea' 
liquid fertilizers low in nitrogen) are often added to the water when waterin' 
the plants in. This gives the young seedling an extra “boost” and promote 
better root growth. 


With all of this accomplished, water occasionally, rout the inevitable weec 
and sit back and watch your garden become a colorful display. 


Cultivar Name 

Flower 

Color 

I 

Height, and Other Characteristics 

Ageratum, 'Blue Mink/ 

blue 

to 6 in., good edging plant 

Alyssum, 'Carpet of Snow' 

white 

to 4 in., edging, rock gardens 

'Royal Carpet' 

'Pink Heather' 

violet 

to 3 in., edging, rock gardens 

pink 

to 6 in., edging, blooms all summer 

Begonia, 1 'Christmas Cheer' 

scarlet 

9-12 in., massing, borders 

'Cinderella Rose' 

red 

9-12 in., massing, borders 

'Indian Maid' 

red 

9-12 in., massing, borders, foliage 

'Masterpiece' 

'Silver Wings' 

pink 

bronze colored 

9 in., massing, borders 

white 

9-12 in., massing, borders, mix with red 

'Carmen' 

bright rose 

or pink 

9-12 in., massing, foliage bronze colore 

'Frosty' 

Celosia, 'Forest Fire' 

white 

9-12 in., massing, border, bronze foliag 

scarlet 

18-20 in., tall border, flower the plume< 

Centaurea, 1 'Dusty Miller' 

blue 

type 

6 in., silvery-gray foliage 

Cleome, 'Helen Campbell' 

white 

to 4 ft., good for showy hedge-like 

'Pink Queen' 

pink 

border 

to 4 ft., good for showy hedge-like 

Dahlia, 1 'Unwin's' 

mixed 

border 

to 18 in., large flowers 

Lobelia, 'Blue Gown' 

blue 

to 6 in., good edger, compact 

'White Lady' 

white 

5 in., excellent edger 

Marigold, 'Climax Golden' 

yellow-gold 

30 in., good border or massing 

'Climax Yellow' 

bright yellow 

30 in., good border or massed 

'Cupid Yellow' 

yellow 

8 in., dwarf 

'Cupid Orange' 

brilliant orange 

8 in., dwarf 

Nicotiana, 'Crimson Bedder' 

crimson 

15 in., massed or mixed 

Nierembergia, 'Purple Robe' 

lavender 

6 in., good for borders 

Penstemon, 'Sensation' 

mixed 

2 ft., mixed beddiria 

Petunia 1 

Grandifloras 

'Maytime' 

salmon 

12 in., petals ruffled, fringed, double 

'Prima Donna' 

rose 

12 in., heavily ruffled petals, double 

'Pink Magic' 

light pink 

12 in., compact 

'Fire Gleam' 

red 

1 2 in. 

Multifloras 

'Paleface' 

white 

14 in., flowers with cream centers 


60 


'Pink Sensation 7 

pink 

15 in. 

'Comanche 7 

crimson 

13 in., large flowers 

'Neptune 7 
-llox, 'Twinkle 7 

blue 

12 in., non-fading 

mixed 

6 in., large flowers 

Drtulaca 

mixed 

4-6 in., ground cover 

alvia, 'St. John's Fire' 

scarlet 

12-18 in. 

'Royal Blue' 

blue 

12-18 in. 

'Royal White' 

white 

12-18 in. 

napdragon, 1 , 'Cherry Red' 

red 

to 24 in., large flowers 

'Stardust' 

yellow 

to 30 in. 

'Hit Parade' 

mixed 

24-30 in. 

'Golden Queen' 

yellow 

dwarf 

'St. George' 

pink 

dwarf 

erbena venosa- 

mixed 

12 in., edges and massing 

inia, Cactus type 
'Cherry Time' 

'Ice Cream' 

red hues 

to 30 in., flowers 5 in. across 

cream 

to 30 in., flowers 5 in. across 

'Apricot' 

apricot 

to 30 in., flowers 5 in. across 

'Blaze' 

orange 

to 30 in., flowers 5 in. across 

'Sunnyboy' 

yellow 

to 30 in., flowers 5 in. across 

'Eskimo' 

white 

to 30 in., flowers 5 in. across 


1 Tender perennials but treated as annuals in Colorado. 

2 Perennial but treated as annual in Colorado. 


■p, 


reuieu/ 


OfS, 


'prLnff 


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61 


A BAKER’S DOZEN 


OF 

GLAMOROUS GLADS 


Everett C. Long 

r 


Early April to mid-June is the 
proper time to plant gladiolus in this 
area. Now comes the question, “What 
varieties should I plant?” May I sug¬ 
gest for your consideration a baker’s 
dozen of my favorites. 

Bright, vivid red color in Iris is still 
a problem challenging hybridizers, but 
not with glads. Many fine red varieties 
are available, and two of the best are 
Sans Souci and Harrisburger. Tall, ro¬ 
bust, healthy growers, they command 
attention throughout the season. Har¬ 
risburger is late flowering and takes 
over when San Souci’s bloom is ending. 

For contrast, Mother Fischer is a 
glistening, tall white with extremely 
ruffled florets. Of different form is 
stately Peggy White, tall and hand¬ 
some. Prospector is also heavily ruf¬ 
fled, with an amber blotch against a 
cream background giving it an overall 
light yellow effect. Of medium yellow 
coloration is Fiat Lux. 

Several years ago the Holland bulb 
firm of Konynenburg & Mark intro¬ 
duced a new group of gladiolus char¬ 
acterized by distinctive throat mark¬ 
ings and blotches. Described as “But¬ 
terfly Glads”, they have medium to 


- 


small florets on stems of averag 
height and are highly prized by th 
flower arranger. Two of the most ai 
tractive “Butterflies” are Ares —-whit; 
with red blotch, and Melodie —a tar| 
talizingly tempting salmon pink wit 
red throat. 


Friendship, a light pink, is one c 
the earliest glads to bloom. Of some 
what deeper pink, and the most pop 
ular glad grown in the last decade, i 
Spic & Span —clear and clean in cole 
and slightly ruffled. For a novelty i 
the pink class you will enjoy Painte 
Lady, a gorgeous hussy whose light pin 
petals are outlined in bright scarle 
She does not grow as tall as some c 
her sisters and brothers, but is we 
worth having. 


For intense color, King David is | 
grand performer. It is a deep royti 
purple with a rich red throat and th 
ruffled, winged and fluted florets hav; 
a silvery picotee edging. Lastly, w 
come to a real odd ball, JJhu. Its un 
usual smoky coloration of light chocc 
late brown with orange pencilings i 
the throat will make it a real conver 
sation piece in your garden. 


In addition to the above baker’ 


62 


lozen of glamorous glads, I cannot 
elinquish this space without mention- 
ng the All-America gladiolus. Since 
atroduction of the first two All-Amer- 
:a glads in 1956 their number has 
;rown to an even dozen varieties. 
Tested and proved in trial gardens 
hroughout the country, their popular¬ 
ly has increased enormously, and I 
nthusiastically commend them for 
r our consideration. 

If possible, plant glad bulbs in dif- 
erent soil each year. You may find 
t more difficult to rotate flowers in 
'our garden than a farmer does crops 
n the field, but the advantages are 
ully as great, especially with glads. 
Tontinued use of the same spot will 


bring disease and disappointment. 

Large size glad corms should be 
planted about five inches deep with 
at least four inches lateral spacing 
from each other. Staggering the plant¬ 
ing time from April to mid-June will 
help stretch bloom time out over the 
mid-summer and fall. When plants 
have grown to three or four leaves, 
water deeply once a week until bloom¬ 
ing time. After blooming, restrain your 
enthusiasm to “wrest” the corms from 
the ground immediately. Most of the 
corm growth takes place after blossom¬ 
ing. Mid-October is not too late to dig. 
Dry, clean and store in a cool, ven¬ 
tilated place until spring, but avoid 
freezing temperatures. 


GARDENER-FLORIST APPRENTICE TRAINING PROGRAM 


The Parks and Recreation Department of the City of Denver is continuing to actively 
iromote improvement of the job knowledge of its employees. Over the past several years 
here have been various types of training programs for parks employees. One of the major 
>nes this year is the Gardener-Florist Apprentice Training Program being held every 
Vednesday, November thru March, from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. in the City Park Greenhouse, 
n addition to the Parks and Recreation Department the class is being sponsored by Oppor- 
unity School and the Apprentice Bureau of the Department of Labor. 

Other men who have taken part in demonstrations or given guest talks have been: 
lichard Schimming, demonstration of budding technique; Jennings Dixon, demonstration 
)f tree-root balling, and sprinkler heads; John Kucler, pricking out and planting; William 
vVithrow, flat preparation and seed planting; Mike Ulaski, tour and explanation of green- 
louse procedures; Edgar Johnson, parks and planning; George Kelly, general garden knowl- 
;dge and specific information regarding disease and insects with regards to plant life; Dr. 
\. C. Hildreth and Dr. James R. Feucht, lawn fertility and sodding. 


SUCH CLASSY THINGS - TORO 

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GOLF CLUBS USE 450,000 POUNDS A YEAR IN OUR IMMEDIATE AREA). HASTY BAKE BAR¬ 
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ROSES — JACKSON & PERKINS ROSES — MT. ARBOR TREES AND SHRUBS. BLACK & DECKER 
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63 


PLANT PROFILES 

George W. Kelly 
AMORPHAS % 


The genus Amorpha furnishes us 
with several shrubs which are especial¬ 
ly useful in this area but which have 
little use as ornamental plants in other 
areas where the selection is greater. 

The most valuable of the several 
species is the Leadplant, Amorpha 
canescens. This plant grows to 2 feet 
tall in most garden soils and to 3 feet 
in especially favorable locations. The 
fine, silvery-gray foliage is particularly 
attractive in contrast with other coarser 
and darker green leaves. The bloom 
consists of terminal spikes of violet 
colored flowers which are very spec¬ 
tacular when seen in summer at the 
time when few other shrubs are in 
bloom. Throughout the rest of the 
summer it is a modest, inconspicuous 
plant and in winter it very much resem¬ 
bles a dead tumbleweed. 

Because good, low shrubs are scarce, 
and summer bloomers are scarcer, this 
little shrub fills an important place. 
Enjoy it while it is in its prime and 
look the other way the rest of the year. 
Not the least of its advantages here is 
that it is deep-rooted and quite alkali 
tolerant. It is a native of Colorado. 

A similar shrub in the same genus 
is Amorpha nana. The leaf, flower and 


AMORPHA CANESCENS 


growth habit is similar to the Lead- 
plant, but the foliage is green. There 
is a native type which remains under 
1 foot tall. The Indigobush, Amorpha 
fruticosa, is a much taller shrub with 
green leaves and violet flowers. It has j 
been used occasionally in ornamental 
plantings, but because it is a rather! 
loose, formless plant it has never be-! 
come very popular. 

Under difficult, dry, poor-soil con¬ 
ditions these amorphas can fill a need 
in our list of ornamental shrubs. 


SK 6-0789 

JOHN VAN WYK 


SIMPSON SEED CO. 

LANDSCAPING 

New Lawns • Planting • Fertilizing 

Roto Tilling 


1515 Champa TA 5-2279 

HEADQUARTERS FOR 1961 

2101 South Adams Denver 10, Colo. 


ALL-AMERICA SELECTIONS 

The Denver Forestry & Landscape 


ROSES —GLADIOLUS — 

Company 


FLOWER and VEGETABLE SEEDS 

Call us for your Tree Spraying, Trimming 
and Removal 


Ask for our 1961 Catalogue 

In Denver Since 1918 

7505 E. Harvard PLaza 5-0363 


FREE DELIVERY of Orders $2.00 or Over 


64 


VIBURNUMS 

If 1 were asked to nominate one 
enus of shrubs as the most valuable 
jar landscape planting, I believe that 
|: would be the viburnums and if I were 
Ssked to select the most important of 
hese many good plants for use in this 
rea, 1 would select Viburnum lantana 
:»r Wayfaringtree. All the viburnums 
re aristocrats and often on plans I 
limply specify “ Viburnum” and let the 
jiomeowner select from V. lantana, V . 
entago, V. opulus, V. roseum, V. den- 
I atum, and V. trilobum. Then, there 
Ire those partly-tender kinds like V. 
arlesi, V. burkwoodi, V. chenaulti and 
7 . carlcephalum. 

The Wayfaringtree Viburnum will, 
n time, become a tall and spready 
hrub; sometimes achieving up to 12 
eet, but it is slow growing and always 
leat. The flowers are, like most of the 
;enus, white and grow in large, flat 
lusters. The fruit of the V. lantana 
ets it aside, for at the time that it is 
ipening there may be concentric rows 
)f green, yellow, red and black all at 
he same time. It may be eaten by 
ome birds but is not usually palatable 
o humans. The roots (which only a 
lurseryman ever knows about) and the 
ermented fruit have the typical vibur- 
rnm “wet-sheep” odor, but this does 
lot detract from the shrub, simply 
erving as positive identification to the 
nitiated. 

Although all viburnums are rather 
ine-rooted, this species and the others 
irst mentioned grow very happily in 
)ur area of the “Sunshine States”. They 
ire rather easy to plant and maintain. 
Jttle pruning is needed until they be- 
'in to outgrow their location, then a 
ew old canes taken out, down to the 
'round, each year, will keep them al- 
nost eternally youthful. 

What would be YOUR nomination 
or the most useful ornamental shrub 
or this area? 

YELLOWHORN 

Many shrubs which are rather un- 
mportant in other, moister areas, be- 


VIRBURNUM CARLESI 


come of major importance to us here 
because of their ability to tolerate dry 
soil, dry air and alkaline soil. The Yel- 
lowhorn or “Chinese Chestnut”, Xan- 
thoceras sorbifolium is one of these. 
There are occasional specimens found 
in the Denver City Parks and scattered 
over the city, but it has never become 
well known. 

The general effect of the plant is 
somewhat like a sumac: tall, loose and 
irregular. The leaves are compound, 
resembling a mountainash. The flowers 
are not quite like any other plant. They 
grow in large clusters, tubular, gen¬ 
erally white with touches of red and 
yellow at the throat. This tree-like 
shrub is very attractive when in bloom. 
The fruit resembles a buckeye or chest¬ 
nut. The plant is rather easily started 
from seed or small seedlings. As with 
many of our most valuable shrubs it 
is deep-rooted and difficult to move 
when large. 

Few nurseries carry this shrub, but 
is has become rather well established in 
parts of Nebraska, where seeds can 
sometimes be obtained. 


65 


COMPOSTING 

COLORADO FEDERATION OF GARDEN CLUBS, INC. 

Mrs. John Scott 


Quoting Beryl Frank in The National 
Gardener. 

“Arrangements are essentially 
in geometric shape; 

Fve horizontal, vertical, and 
triangles (with tape). 

1 really like the Hogarth line; 

I work at it with verve, 

But never will I understand the 
Parabolic Curve!” 

My understanding isn’t taxed by the 
Parabolic Curve thanks to Mrs. Earl 
B. Griffee who defines it, as applied to 
design in flower arranging as a geomet¬ 
ric design in which an egg-shaped curve 
is combined with a vertical line. The 
center of interest is usually placed 
where the vertical line meets the curve, 
near the top of the container. 

I wish someone could explain why 
gardeners fail to support their own 
house organ, The National Gardener. 
Mrs. Vivian Christensen is State Chair¬ 
man, and here’s one hundred cents 
worth of pre-inflation value. 

We are happy to see that the Federa¬ 
tion has closed the gap between Junior 
and Senior Gardeners. “Let’s Teach 
Flora” is the fashion. Van Anderson 
Blanchard, promoter of liaison garden¬ 
ers states their purpose: TO TEACH 
THEM to use their eyes TO SEE 
HORTICULTURE then grow it; TO 
SEE CONSERVATION then practice 
it; TO SEE OUR RESOURCES then 
conserve them; TO SEE CIVIC PRO¬ 
JECTS then promote one. 

High schools, 4-H Clubs, Senior 
Campfire and Scouts, Y. W. C. A., 
houses of correction and displaced 


Pink Parfait with Horehound Foliage. Container 
Inverted cut-glass antique vase. Mechanics: Plan 
materials in custard cup with pinholder, cup gluec 
to bottom of case. Photo by Art Gore. 

youth, to list a few, are naturals for 
this versatile gardening program. Tht 
groups (either or both sexes) choose 
their own programs (as yet there are 
no dues) and at a time when it fits intc 
their particular schedule. The Feder¬ 
ation provides the instructors, for free! 
naturally. For further informatior! 
please contact Mrs. John Scott, 455Cj 
So. Galapago St., Englewood. 

Perhaps the “Recipe of a Volunteer’ 
would fit in here, as most Garden Clut 


FRENCH HYBRID LILACS ON THEIR OWN ROOTS 

FINEST NAMED VARIETIES • SPECIMEN PLANTS 

AILEEN C. FLUKEN 

SU 1-4852 


66 


vork is carried on a salary less basis: 
k Cream together one part spare time 
vith desire to help others, add slowly 
;eries of indoctrination and orientation 
courses, add dash of enthusiasm, cour¬ 
ge, originality for flavor. Combine 
horoughly, steadily beating in many 
lours of service; then add large quan- 
ity of well-sifted patience with equal 
imount of milk of human kindness. 
5 our into a warm heart, bake well in a 
Dan of experience. When done, top 
vith three D’s—Discipline, Drill, De- 
lendability and serve in generous por- 
ions.” 

Advice is something else always 
.erved up in generous portions by the 
)ne giving it, reminding us that plant- 
ng for winter is a little like planning 
or retirement with the time to do both 
low. George Kelly in his book, “How 
o Have Good Gardens in the Sunshine 
dates”, remarks that winter “. . . is the 
ime of year we most appreciate all the 
ine coniferous evergreens that do so 
veil in the Rocky Mountain area—- 
lines, spruces, firs, junipers, of every 
ize and shape. A few small broad- 
eafed evergreens such as English Ivy, 
vlahonia and some varieties of euon- 
/mus also help make little spots of 
>reen in the winter. Then there are the 
ieciduous trees and shrubs with vari- 
dus colors of bark, stems and berries, 
;uch as the native Red Stem Dogwood, 
he Golden Weeping Willow, Japanese 
S: Jarberry and several kinds of coton- 
1 faster.” Spring is the season to plant 
or winter. 

The American Association of Nurs¬ 
erymen are in accord with this plant 
(planning when they speak of “sun 
raps” to prolong seasons. A sun trap 
tllows full sun to pour into an area, 
vhile cutting off cold air streams. From 
i similar spot, I cut pyracantha, yucca 
flades, succulents, and horehound (an 
lerb) for floral designs during January, 
ailing the creations “Salvage.” Mrs. 
less Gibson enjoyed Helleborus niger 
iltifolius, the lenten or Christmas 
^ose peering out of the snow. This 
lower is reputed to be tops as a cut 


flower, and 1 intend to speak from 
first-hand experience in the near future. 

While we’re all planting, let’s include 
some flowers for floral designs. Flower 
arranging is much easier if we have 
round or head forms for the focal 
areas; spray or filler materials to pro¬ 
vide transition and spike plants for 
line. It’s the latter we lack, usually. 
Some supplements include: Adam’s 
Needle (Yucca), beard’s tongue (Pen- 
stemon), butterfly-bush, cattail (Typha 
latifolia). Chaste Tree (Vitex), delphin¬ 
ium, false indigo (Baptisia), foxglove, 
fuchsia, gas-plant, gladiolus, holly¬ 
hock, grape hyacinth, larkspur, laven¬ 
der, lobelia, lupine, monkshood, pussy¬ 
willow, snapdragon, speedwell (Ver¬ 
onica), squill (Scilla), thermopsis, and 
torch-lily or red hot poker. This list is 
recommended for long-lasting cut flow¬ 
ers. There are many new and beautiful 
varieties of some of the old, more com¬ 
mon favorites. 


Pink Parfait and Coriander, an herb. Container: 
Turquoise blue for contrast. Mechanics: One rose 
in Orchid tube, the rest in an oasis. Roses raised 
and arranged by the author. Photos by Art Gore. 


67 


Spring is the time to organize a cor¬ 
sage club. Remember Mrs. John So- 
biella, Littleton? Then when the proms, 
graduations, weddings and other social 
functions come, we’ll be in practice. 
Too often the need for a corsage is 
spasmodic or irregular, while a flower 
arrangement can be used every day of 
the year. If we’re in the habit of creat¬ 
ing these floral accessories, we’ll have 
all the equipment at our finger tips— 
well, at least, we’ll have it, and what’s 
more economical we’ll have grown the 
corsage-type blooms in our yard. 

Of course, the corsage flower to end 
all corsage flowers is the rose Pink 
Parfait. To know this, just grow it and 
show it. It arranges beautifully, too. 
Pink Parfait, however, is not without 
close competition in the design divi¬ 
sion. Its chief contender is Duet. Both 
are 1961 A.A.R.S. winners originated 
by Armstrong Nurseries. Anyone plant¬ 
ing roses should add Pink Parfait and 
Duet. If you’ve never before planted 
roses, start with these two varieties and 
you’ll agree with the rave notices about 
them. 

To conclude, Mrs. Carroll Edsall of 
New York shares this Garden Club 
Creed for 1961 with us: 

I BELIEVE in the great fraternity 
of Garden Clubs. 


1 BELIEVE in the welding togethei 
of over 14,000 clubs and over 400,00( 
members into an organization with kin 
dred aims and purposes. 

I BELIEVE that each individua 
club perhaps is unaware of its vita 
part in the National affiliation, yet i 
still plays its part in making a mon 
beautiful America. 

I BELIEVE in the fellowship anc 
the friends that are made in Gardei 
Club work. 

I BELIEVE that whatever enriche: 
one community enriches the whole. 

I BELIEVE that garden club mem 
bers have, individually and collectively 
influenced legislation and promotec 
education in Horticultural and Con 
servation fields. 

I BELIEVE that progress is ou. 
most important product and that bettei 
programs will make better clubs; bettei 
schedules will make better shows anc 
a growing knowledge will make bettei 
members. 

I BELIEVE in the healing power o: 
Garden Therapy. 

I BELIEVE that Gardening is orn 
of the greatest forces in the world to¬ 
day for the betterment of the humar 
race and I am glad to have my smal 
part in it. 


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TREE SURGEONS 


620 So. Dahlia 


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FR 7-8123 


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68 


BRIEFING 

FOR 

SPRING PRUNING 


Lee Chambers, Tree Surgeon 

HY should a man who makes his 
living as a tree surgeon write an 
[irticle telling others how to do their 
)wn pruning? The answer is easy: peo¬ 
ple who do their own work will still 
|io it, but this may help them to do a 
setter job. As for those who have the 
jvork done by professionals, not all of 
vhom are qualified, this may enable 
hem to recognize the difference be- 
ween good pruning and the butchery 
hat is so prevalent throughout this 
irea. 

i In the first place, what is the mean¬ 
ing of the word “prune?” According to 
vlr. Webster, it means “to lop or cut 
)ff the superfluous parts, branches, or 
hoots of; to clear off useless material; 
jo shape or smooth by trimming; to 
rim; as to prune trees.” This defini- 
ion leaves much to the discretion of 
jhe pruner. How much is superfluous?” 
Yhat is “useless?” How much “to 
Rape or smooth?” I would like to add 
o Webster’s definition by classifying 
)runing as formal, natural, corrective 
)r maintenance pruning. 

Formal pruning usually brings to 
nind such things as sharp, hard, 
mooth shapes like hedges, shaped 
evergreens, espaliered trees, and other 
innatural shapes. Spring is not a very 
;ood time to do formal pruning be¬ 
cause the rapid growth at this season 
oon obliterates the effect desired, 
iowever, if one wants to change from 
in informal aspect to a trim, tailored 
ook, spring is the time to start. In this 
ase the rapid growth is an asset be- 
ause it enables the plant to heal rapid¬ 


ly, proliferate new twigs, and assume 
the thick, solid appearance usually de¬ 
sired. Subsequent trimming after the 
lush spring growth will give the smooth, 
finished, formal look. 

Natural pruning can mean either 
pruning done by nature or pruning that 
maintains a natural appearance of the 
plant. Of course, we must mean the 
latter. All plants have a natural beauty 
(even the grotesque cacti) that can be 
retained in pruning with a little care. 
The gradual taper of a branch, the 
delicate tracery of dark or colored 
twigs against the sky or contrasting 
background, the natural intermingling 
of the different plants, all are things to 
be considered when pruning. Certainly 
there is no beauty in a large stubbed- 
off branch, or in a bush that resembles 
a whisk broom from repeated “hair 
cuts.” Spring is the optimum time for 
pruning. Now one can easily see dead, 
deformed, broken, rubbing or other¬ 
wise undesirable branches. The shape 
of a shrub, its size, or even its location 
can be altered in the spring with the 
least surgical shock. 

As for the actual pruning, the best 
advice I can give is keep your tools 
in the best possible condition. Dull 
saws, pruners, etc. make the task hard 
work rather than the pleasant relaxa¬ 
tion it should be (if done by oneself, 
that is). Also dull tools are dangerous. 
To use them requires much more ef¬ 
fort, and a slip usually is quite violent 
under these conditions. Rust dulls tools 
and makes them hard to spot when 
they lie with the debris of trimming. 


69 


Not this because . . you will get this. 

A second bit of advice is take it 
easy! One can cut off a branch a piece 
at a time, but just try to glue one back 
on. Usually one can pull a branch 
aside to get a preview of the effect of 
its removal. 

When making any, and 1 mean 
ANY, pruning cut on woody plants, it 
is best to make a flush cut. This sim¬ 
ply means that no stub is left. It 
sounds simple, sounds easy—well, just 
take a critical look at your trees and 
shrubs. Can you see any stubs, awk¬ 
ward branches? The streets of this city 
are literally lined with atrocities com¬ 
mitted in the name of horticulture. To 
get a fair idea of how a flush cut 
should look, hold your hand up to say 
“stop.” Now fold your thumb into the 
palm. That’s how a flush cut should 
look, a smooth continuous line with 
no obvious breaks. Try to avoid creat¬ 
ing unnatural angles when removing 
branches, such as when removing the 
end of a long branch by cutting to a 
lateral branch. 

What about the pruning of our 
shrubs? 

Nothing has been said about which 
shrub varieties to prune in the spring. 
Since most flower buds are at the tips 
of the twigs, it is obvious that if these 
twigs are removed the shrub cannot 
possibly produce flowers. The early 


Do similar to this so that . . you will get this. 

bloomers should be pruned after the 
have blossomed. In this way the ne^ 
growth will be able to flower nex 
spring. Shrubs that bloom in the sum 
mer may be pruned while dorman 
since the flower buds are usually founi 
on the spring growth. This problen 
can be eliminated by a well-plannei 
pruning program because only a fe\ 
flower buds will be removed at an; 
one time. 

To summarize, a few general rules 
Do any major pruning of spring-flow 
ering shrubs just after they havi 
bloomed, prune summer - flowerin; 
shrubs while dormant. Gradually renev 
individual bushes by removing fev 
main stems each year and allowing per 
haps twice as many new shoots t( 
grow. Part of these will be allowed tc 
mature to replace the removed stems 
Have your pruners handy to do mino 
pruning at any time and remove 
branches when they are broken or be 
come unsightly. The best rule is tha 
except for formal pruning, plant; 
should not appear to have been prunec 
even just after the job has been done! 

My intention is not to create a horde 
of expert pruners, but a little sounc| 
advice coupled with your own com 
mon horse sense should result in c 
greater number of more attractive tree; 
and shrubs. 


LEE CHAMBERS 

850 KEARNEY STREET 
Complete Care and Maintenance 
of 

Trees, Shrubs and Evergreens 


FR 7-0036 


TREE SURGEON 

DENVER 20, COLORADO 


Custom Spraying 
Fully Licensed and Insured 


MEMBER 


70 


ant materials: Forsythia, parsley and hens and chickens. Base: Table mat in yellow. Container: Baking 
sh in green ceramic and wrought iron wagon stand. Accessories: Ceramic rooster containers. Mechan- 
s: Oasis. Photo by Art Gore. 

I GIVING PLANTS THE 

“BLOOM’S RUSH” 

Mrs. John Scott 


FORCING is encouraging plant ma- 
- terials to put forth leaves or blooms 
rior to their accustomed time. It is 
ashing the season. 

Reasons for man’s impatience could 
e: the scarcity of fresh plant mater- 
ils; extra expense of purchasing ma¬ 
gnate; that this type of plant materials 
mds itself to late winter and early 
pring arrangements; people like to 
^ork with nature and forcing stems 
f trees and shrubs is just another 
obby. 

Early flowering trees and shrubs are 
le most rewarding. Use the previous 
mason’s stems which contain flower 
uds when selecting material for forc- 
ig. Older stems usually contain fewer 


and less vigorous buds. Select branches 
from the south side of the plant where 
buds are usually more abundant. Flow¬ 
er buds are usually more plump and 
rounder than leaf buds, which are most 
often slim and pointed. Use long, stur¬ 
dy stems. Smaller branches tend to 
dry out too quickly. From the stand¬ 
point of design, the less twiggy the 
better. 

To make gracefully curved stems, 
so often desired in arrangements, in¬ 
sert a small pole (broomstick size) in 
the center of the shrubs in the fall. 
Wind the flexible stems around the 
pole and secure with stout twine or 
“twistems.” 

It is sometimes possible to cut the 


71 


stems for forcing, and at the same 
time, to shape the plant into a desir¬ 
able form. The weather dictates when 
to collect the forcing material. If cut 
on a warm, sunny day the buds will 
open more quickly. When stems are 
hard-frozen, cutting may cause split¬ 
ting, thus permanently injuring the 
tree or shrub from which the stems 
are taken. Use a sharp knife or pruning 
shear and make a clean, slanting cut. 
The slanted cut is important because 
it exposes more surface for water up¬ 
take than a straight cut. 

Stem-end treatments vary with the 
“forcer.” Some hammer and pound, 
some peel off bark, and others make 
several 4- or 5-inch splits in the di¬ 
agonal slash. The latter method is 
more general. The former could en¬ 
courage bacteria with so many mashed 
and mangled cells. 

To hasten forcing, submerge the 
shoots in warm (not hot) water for 
times varying from half an hour to 
half a day depending upon the species 
being forced. A tank or bathtub is the 
usual utensil for this preliminary. If 
the stems are frozen they undergo the 
same treatment except that cold water 
is used instead of warm. 1 

After the submersion treatment, 
place the stems in a deep container (an 
old crockery butter churn minus the 
dasher and lid would be ideal) and 
cover the shoots one-half their length 
with cold water. (Forcing can be has¬ 
tened by placing them in hot water— 
100 degrees F.) A few experts place 
charcoal in this water and all change 
the water every third day or everv 
week. With each water change, cut off 
about one inch of the lower end of the 
stem. 

The upper or out-of-water portions 
of the plant material should be sprayed 


with water at least once each day. Ai : 
atomizer for “humidifying” indooi 
plants is suitable for this purpose. A|. 
to temperature, the room in which thin 
stems are kept should be cool, rangin;|i 
from a low of 45 degrees F. at nigh| 
to a high of 70 degrees F. by day. The 
lower temperatures extend the bloom 
ing period but will somewhat retan : 
the opening of the buds. Coolness i n 
believed conducive to better substance p 

There is much division of opinioi I 
as to the amount of light that shouh 
be allowed to filter into the draft-fret 
room, sun porch or greenhouse h 
which the forcing is taking place. Somi it 
think that filtered light is best and tha 
direct sun dries the buds; but once th< 
buds are open, sunlight intensifies th< 
color of the petals. Others think a light 
but not sunny window is best. If fore 
ing progresses faster than desired (fo 
some special occasion) it can be slow 
ed down by placing the shoots in < 
cool, dimly lit room. Ideally, th( 
forced shoots should flower six tc _ 
eight weeks ahead of the time the} 
would have flowered outdoors. 

There are, however, other factors in¬ 
fluencing the time required. Shrub; 
that produce blooms before the leave: 
appear, such as forsythia, force more 
readily than vice versa. The later thai 
plants bloom outside, the longer it wil 
take to force them indoors. Varietie: 
that bloom early outdoors force more 
quickly but do not last as long as those 
that bloom later and force more slow¬ 
ly. Trees and shrubs with naturall)' 
hard wood are usually difficult tc« 
force. Those that bloom on wood ol 
the current season’s growth such as 
roses, hydrangeas and hibiscus, cannol 
be forced at all because they have nc 
overwintering flower buds. 

John C. Wister in National Garden 
Book recommends the following plants 


1 Forcing may be hastened also by placing the stems in a plastic bag containing a vial 
of ether or chloroform for a certain period of time depending upon the species. Bailey’s 
Standard Cyclopedia of Horticulture reports a maximum period of 48 hours exposure 
to the gases. From the literature, it appears that the use of ether and chloroform for 
forcing originated in Germany over a century ago. CAUTION: Ether is highly inflamma¬ 
ble, chloroform is not but it is injurious when inhaled. — Editor 


72 


• forcing flowers: Forsythia, the 
)st popular; Japanese Quince; ser- 
:e berry; redbud, sand cherry; 
lunberg Spirea; honeysuckle; and 
inter Jasmine. For ornamental leaves 
catkins; alder, birch, flowering 
rrant, hazelnut, horsechestnut, Pus- 
Willow, and Red Maple. Trees 
d shrubs to be forced slowly: For 
wers: Almond, apple, pear, crab- 
pie, ash, boxelder, cherry, deutzia, 
gwood, mockorange and plum. For 


leaves: Poplar and mountainash. 

References in addition to the Na¬ 
tional Garden Book : 

Gardening, forcing, conditioning and 
drying for flower arrangements, Ar¬ 
no and Irene Nehrling 
How to make cut flowers last, Victoria 
R. Kasperski 

Symbolism in flower arrangement, Er¬ 
vin S. Ferry 

The complete book of flower arrange¬ 
ment, Rockwell and Grayson 


“The rose doth deserve the cheefest and most principal praise among all 
iwers whatsoever, being not only esteemed for his beauty, vertues, and his 
ligrant and odoriferous smell, but also because it is the honore and ornament 
lour English Scepter.”—John Gerard, 1596. 


‘Ele who plants a tree plants a hope. 

Rootlets up through fibers blindly grope; 
Leaves unfold into horizons free.” 

—Lucy Larcom, “Plant a Tree” 


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73 


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READY 


FOR THE “BUGS’? 


Gordon T. Mickle * 


M ARCH is a good time to take 
stock of your supply of insec¬ 
ticides, herbicides, and fungicides — 
that is, if your early gardening enthusi¬ 
asm is to produce the results you ex¬ 
pect. March is also a good time to 
check over your spray or dust equip¬ 
ment to make sure it is ready when the 
insects, weeds, or plant diseases ap¬ 
pear. 

“Bug” time may be nearer than we 
realize. Several insects overwinter in 
hibernation and are awaiting the first 
green growth. Others overwinter as 
eggs or in a partially-grown state and 
become early arrivals in the flower or 
vegetable garden. Needless to say, 
weeds are always a problem and very 
often they have a good start before 
cultivated plants appear. 

March and April are also good 
months for cleaning up scale on trees 
and shrubs if this has not been done. 
Dormant oil sprays may be used any¬ 
time before the buds break but don’t 


crowd this time too closely. Dormar 
oil is largely used for scale insects an 
mite and aphid eggs. Oystershell seal 
is very destructive to many commo 
shrubs but especially to lilacs, willovj 
dogwood, and Cotoneaster. Oystershe t 
scale insects, when numerous, weakej 
the shrub by sucking out the juice; 1 
They often become so numerous thJ 
they kill entire shoots or branche;| 
The scale may be recognized by il 
peculiar shape, color, and marking; 
They are about Vs of an inch lon£ 
brown, and with markings which re 
semble those seen on an oyster shel 
hence the name “oystershell.” In wir 
ter and early spring this insect ij 
motionless. Actually, the old mothel 
scale is merely a shell under whic 
are dozens of tiny, pearl-white egg; 

To control oystershell scale, regula 
dormant spray oil should be used s 
the rate of 3 pints per 5 gallons c 
water. The new superior or supreme^ 
type oils are recommended at Vi to 
pint per 5 gallons of water for thi 


* Extension Entomologist, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado. 


MEMBER 


TREES! YOUR MOST ECONOMICAL SHADE! 

SCHULHOFF ARBORIST SERVICE 


Specialists in Tree Care 


HArrison 4-6112 


74 


OYSTERSHELL SCALE 

a. Adult scales on twig. 

b. Newly hatched nymph. 

c. Eggs under an old scale. 


PINE LEAF SCALE 

a. Spruce twig infested with scale. 

b. Greatly enlarged scale. 


bale. Spray when temperatures are 
/er 50° and early enough so that the 
)ray is dry before sundown. 

Other important scale insects such 
; San Jose, Putnam’s or Howard’s 
:ale are often found on shrubs. These 
e very closely related and they are 
uch more difficult to see with the un- 
ded eye. p They are gray in color, 
tout 1/16 of an inch in diameter and 
•e slightly raised in the center. They 
ay appear as scurf on the bark. Con- 
ol for these is relatively the same as 
>r oystershell scale but use only one- 
ilf the amount of oil. 

Pine leaf scale, a common pest of 
ne, spruce, and fir, can be very 
I rious if neglected. Sometimes needle- 
ist, caused by the feeding of the 
ale, is very serious and can ruin 
iluable trees or shrubs. This scale is 
hite, motionless, about Vs inch long, 
id is easily recognized on the needles, 
ecause evergreens are easily injured 
/ oil, perhaps you should .employ a 
aalified custom spray company for 
iis job. 

Aphids of many species are also 
irly residents in the garden. Almost 
'ery flower, shrub, or tree is attacked 
/ aphids at one time or another. One 
: the earliest plants to become in- 
sted is the snowball. Control is not 


too difficult unless you wait until the 
aphids become protected by the rolled 
leaves. Then, control is almost im¬ 
possible. Currants also are attacked 
early and the aphids cause the leaves 
to curl. April is too early for the rose 
aphid but it surely will appear soon 
thereafter. 

Malathion is one of the safest in¬ 
secticides for home gardeners to use 
for aphids. It is quite effective and 
will also kill leafhoppers, an early pest 
of roses and crabapples. Use 55-57% 
malathion at 1 teaspoon per gallon of 
water. Later, fungicides for mildew 
control may be added when needed. 

April is usually the time when cut¬ 
worms renew their activity. Most cut¬ 
worms overwinter deep in the soil and 
are about one-half grown. They have 
a voracious appetite after overwinter¬ 
ing and often destroy many plants by 
cutting them off at the ground line. 
Transplants, whether flowers or vege¬ 
tables, are especially susceptible. It is 
probably safe to assume that most 
garden soils do contain some cut¬ 
worms even if you don’t see them 
while preparing the soil. Chlorinated 
insecticides, such as Chlordane, Toxa- 
phene, Dieldrin, Endrin, or Heptachlor 
are quite effective in control. One of 
the easiest methods is to use the 


75 


granular form of the insecticide, ap¬ 
plying it to the soil surface, and then 
harrow it into the top inch or so of soil 
ahead of planting. One-half pound of 
5% granules will treat 1,000 square 
feet of surface. Spray or dust may be 
used but the rate of application will 
vary with the insecticide selected. Fol¬ 
low directions on the label. 

EQUIPMENT 

Dusters : 

Hand-plunger type dusters may be 
used but they are quite laborious if 
the garden is large. Bellows dusters or 
rotary dusters are much more satisfac¬ 
tory; however, they cost considerably 
more. They will last several years if 
they are cleaned after each use and 
are oiled periodically. 

Sprayers : 

Compression tank sprayers, 1 to 3 
gallon capacity, are quite satisfactory 
for most gardens. These corrode easily 
and therefore should be cleaned thor¬ 
oughly after each use. Be sure to hang 
them upside down so that they will 
dry. With proper care they too will last 
several years. 


Garden hose spray attachments a| 
usually satisfactory but they should I 
calibrated frequently to make sure thl 
are delivering an adequate amount I 
insecticide. Calibration is simple. Pla| 
in the sprayer jar the proper amoul 
of liquid for 1, 2, or 5 gallons of mix! 
spray. Then spray into a bucket un 
the sprayer jar is empty. Measure tlj 
total amount of spray in the buck 
and you will know the approximate a 
curacy of the sprayer. 

Caution : Do not use your weed spray 
for insecticides. It is advisable to ha 1 
separate equipment. No matter he 
carefully you clean your weed spraye 
some residue is very likely to inju 
tender plants if you use it to app 
insecticides. 

As you read your March issue 1 
“The Green Thumb”, you may be gal 
ing at snowflakes outside. Who a 
predict Colorado’s weather durii 
March, April and May? Maybe tl 
insects are not active today, but the 
are ready and waiting. Will you 1 
ready? 

a # 


CACTI AND SUCCULENTS HAVE 
PERSONALITY PLUS 

Charlotte A. Barbour 


Recently I had the pleasure of visit¬ 
ing Mrs. Elizabeth Eckstein at her 
home in Golden, Colo. Mrs. Eckstein, 
formerly of Lakewood and Evergreen, 
has probably the best individual col¬ 
lection of cacti and succulents in this 
area. They are kept in the modern 
version of a greenhouse, a room at¬ 
tached to the dwelling with a tinted 
plastic roof and glass windows. “They 
love it”, said Mrs. Eckstein. “During 
our recent move they had to wait in 
the cellar for their room to be com¬ 
pleted; there they moped and drooped 
and even threatened to die! But as 
soon as they were installed in their 
new home they showed their joy and 
gratitude by beginning to grow and 


bloom during what should otherwise t 
their dormant winter period.” 

“We cactus and succulent collectoi] 
do not, however, cultivate these strang 
and fascinating plants exclusively fc 
their bloom,” said Mrs. Eckstein. “The 
are interesting at all times because c 
their shapes, their color, their habit c 
growth, and especially in the infinit 
variety of their spines.” Cacti boa; 
spines in green, yellow, red, anj 
white; some are straight, some curved 
some wooly, some wiry or a combina 
tion of them all. 

The most familiar type is the Man] 
mallaria or pincushion cactus. The 
are generally globular in shape but ar 
varied into many extraordinary hue 


76 


Part of the cactus and succulent collection growing in the home of Mrs. Elizabeth Eckstein. 


nd tricky ways of developing their 
lapes. The taller, columnar cactus 
as forms that range from slim wisps 
) sturdy, club-like stalks. The spines 
re usually arranged in rows up and 
own the “ribs”, or convolutions. Yet 
Irs. Eckstein has an unusual pair, she 
alls “the old man and woman”, which 
re covered with long white hairs 
anging down like a veil. Compare 
lammallaria with the Opuntia. One 
'pe of the latter has pear-shaped, flat 
:ems, another much elongated and 
Cylindrical stems. 

Another plant, the Pereskia, is a 
rimary type, a “bridge” between cacti 
nd other succulents, which bears 
aves and blossoms like a wild rose, 
hen there are the orchid cacti, Epi- 
hyllum, of which the Christmas Cac- 
is is one. They grow right along with 
■ue orchids in the Rain Forests of 
lexico where moisture is abundant, 
ust to simplify matters, in all these 
arieties occur the freaks or monstrosi- 
es called “crested forms”, achieving 
ngular convolutions, size, and pig- 
lent—weird but beautiful. 

Across the aisle in Mrs. Eckstein’s 
actus room, away from the windows 
nd more sheltered from the direct sun 
re the succulent Euphorbias. None of 
lem are native to the western hemi- 
ahere, which is the kingdom of the 
acti from Canada to Chile. Take note 
lat all cacti are succulents, but not 
II succulents are cacti—whew! Eu- 
horbias originate largely from South 


Africa and, like the cacti, include 
manifold varieties: The Hoya, a strag¬ 
gling vine with vivid, tiny, waxen blos¬ 
soms of exquisite odor; the many 
Haworthia, some species of which 
grow so close to the ground that col¬ 
lectors cannot see them, only feel them 
with their bare feet; others looking like 
very miniature Agaves with maroon 
spikes; yet others with translucent 
leaves; the Medusa and the Echeveria 
with profuse tendrils. 

So, on and on, in diversity and in¬ 
terest through hundreds of specimens. 

How do cactus and succulent col¬ 
lectors collect their specimens? “In 
three ways”, said Mrs. Eckstein, “Go 
on collecting trips, exchange specimens 
or purchase from the regular commer¬ 
cial houses which are found in Cali¬ 
fornia, our southwest, England, and 
Japan.” 

The good news? Best of all, once 
in the right surroundings, (there are 
many hardy Colorado Cacti that grow 
outdoors) these collections require re¬ 
latively little service from their owner. 
The service includes regular watering 
but not frequent. Three applications 
of spray per year with an oil-based 
spray, to combat mealy bugs. In the 
summer, occasionally a refreshing 
spray of plain water to remove dust. 
I have an inkling, however, that a 
great deal of understanding and affec¬ 
tion is given to this particular collec¬ 
tion. 


77 


THE ANNUAL DINNER-A GALA AFFAIR 


Dr. John P. Baumgardt, left, director of the 
Kansas City (Mo.) Garden Center, talks with 
Lawrence A. Long, center, president of the Den¬ 
ver Botanic Gardens, and Mrs. Ed. G. Honnen, 
a trustee of the Botanic Gardens, at the annual 
dinner held Feb. 12 at the Denver Country Club. 

The first annual dinner of the Den¬ 
ver Botanic Gardens was held on Feb¬ 
ruary 12 at the Denver Country Club. 
This was a continuation of the tradi¬ 
tion established by the Colorado For¬ 
estry and Horticulture Association. 
Chairman of the dinner was Mrs. Ben 
Stapleton, Jr. 

After a cocktail hour beginning at 
6:00 p.m., dinner was served. A total 
of 222 members and guests were in 
attendance. The dinner menu included 
a luscious Vi chicken served with cur¬ 
ried rice, baked spinach, relishes and 
hot rolls fresh from the oven. The 
dessert was the highlight of the meal, 
a baked alaska served in a flower pot. 
Protruding from the dessert was a twig 
bearing red crepe-paper flowers and a 
label having clever pseudoscientific 
names (derived from the names of 
prominent members) such as Pes- 
manius nativus, after M. Walter Pes- 
man; Archangelus waringus, after Mrs. 
James Waring; Barbouria charlottia, 
after Mrs. Charlotte Barbour; Rosa 


maclisteria after Mrs. Frank McLister 
Churchillia owensis, after Mrs. J 
Churchill Owen and, many others 
Dessert decorations were prepared b} 
a committee headed by Mrs. Willian 
H. Crisp. 

Table decorations were prepared b> 
Mrs. Fred Newton and consisted o 
red balloons enclosed in Valentine’s 
Day “jackets”. 

Immediately after the dinner, pres 
ident Lawrence Long conducted < 
drawing using the numbers that cor 
responded to the ticket stubs of eacl 
person in attendance. Twenty-five bot 
ties of perfume were given away, sev¬ 
eral books on France, a bottle o 
French rosae’ wine and a bottle o 
champagne. The drawing prizes wen 
donated by the French Consule Gen 
eral, M. Claude Batault. 

After the feast, a talk accompaniec 
with slides, was given by Dr. John P 
Baumgardt, Director of the Kansas 
City (Missouri) Garden Center. Dr 
Baumgardt emphasized the importance 
of a botanic garden in an area sucl 
as Denver stating that a botanic gar¬ 
den is . . . “a cultural asset” ... to £ 
city and can be considered a . . 
“$2.00 return from a $1.00 invest¬ 
ment.” 

Referring to the Denver Botanic 
Gardens, Dr. Baumgardt said That. . 
“few botanic gardens are as new as 
Denver’s . . and emphasized that the 
modern trend in the development oi 
a botanic garden is to give attention tc 
the field of research, placing “beauti¬ 
ful garden displays” second in im¬ 
portance. 

Among the slides shown by Dr. 
Baumgardt were views of the trial gar¬ 
dens of the Royal Horticulture Society 
in London, the Kew Gardens in Eng¬ 
land, the “Blinden Garten” in Ger¬ 
many and several gardens in Austria 
and France. 


78 


"75 Years — Celebrating Our Diamond Jubilee'of Service" 


A visit to our garden shop is a rewarding experience 
for the gardening enthusiast. Here you’ll find a com¬ 
plete line of garden tools, insecticides and plant 
foods and other gardening accessories ... all 
displayed in attractive surroundings. Courteous, ex¬ 
perienced people are on hand to serve you. May we 
see you soon? 


) A/u/iowu&><bMc- 

- * WEST 38TH AVENUE AND WADSWORTH 
WHEATRIDGE • HA 4-5584 


COMPARE ! 


ORDER NOW! 


DENVER'S LARGEST 

SELECTION OF ROSES 

BUY YOUR ROSES FROM A NURSERY 
"No one knows roses like a nurseryman" 


LAMEDA 


Denver's Garden Center 

2645 W. Alameda Ave. 


URSERY/ Inc. 


Write or call for 
free catalogue 

WE 5-3528 


* 7 ^ tyieett 0 7&unt6- 


DENVER BOTANIC GARDENS 
909 YORK STREET 

DENVER 6, COLORADO 


BLK RT 


U. S. POSTAGE 

PAID 

Permit No. 205 
Denver, Colorado 


DO NOT FOLD 

POSTMASTER: FORM 3547 REQUESTED 


PLAN TO ATTEND THE COLORADO GARDEN SHOW. 
STOCKYARDS STADIUM. MARCH 26 to APRIL 2. 


EVERGREENS 


NATIVE COLORADO EVERGREENS 
GRAFTED JUNIPERS 
SPREADING JUNIPERS 
PINES 


MOUNTAIN PEAT FERTILIZERS 
Make the Good Earth Better" 


// 


m life 


„ 2 \Z - 


FOXTAIL PINE 


Call YUkon 5-1504 

McCOY & JENSEN 

MORRISON, COLO. 


1 


Ure and 

TENANCE OF 
IAWNS 


3 age 89 


USSOURI 
)TANICAL 
<ARDENS 
3 age 98 


IC PLANTS— 
TARE THEY? 

age 102 


0 PETUNIA 
TRIALS 
age 104 


1PRIL, 

1961 


5 Cents 


LIST OF ADVERTISERS 


ADVERTISER Page 

Alameda Nursery, Inc.inside back cover 

Barteldes Seed Co. 96 

Carson Brothers — Power Equipment .113 

Chambers, Lee — Tree Surgeon .103 


Cottonwood Garden Shop .110 

Creative Gardens .100 


Denver Dry Goods Co.—Gardening Classes 84 

Denver Forestry and Landscape Co . 99 

Golden Home and Garden Center . 88 

Greenhouses, Everlite Aluminum, Mr. Draper 97 

Hammer, Lew, Inc. — Landscape Contractor 87 

Hydroponic Chemical Co. — Hyponex 

Plant Food . 92 

lliff Garden Nursery . inside front cover 

Keeson, Anthony & Sons — Landscaping .... 94 

Kroh Brothers Nurseries . 95 

Lakewood Seed and Pet Co . 105 


! 


ADVERTISER Page 

Marshall Nurseries . 93 


Marsolek's Garden and Flower Center . 90 

McCoy and Jensen — Evergreens . 

outside back cover 


Permagreen Plant Food . 114 

Ralston Valley Excavating Co . 88 


Ra . pid . gro Water Soluble Plant Food....109 


Rocky Mountain Seed Co. — 

Morgro Plant Food . 103 

Schulhoff Arborist Service . 112 

Simpson Seed Co . 99 I 

South Denver Evergreen Nursery . 96 

Spano, Tedo — Petunias . 88 I 

Swingle Tree Surgeons . 102, 107 

Tower Nursery .;. 114 

Van Wyk, John — Landscaping . 91 

Wilmore, W. W., Nurseries Inc . ' 


inside back cover 


SK 6-5656 ILIFF GARDEN 4750 E. ILIFF 

NURSERY I 

Over 80,000 Perennials — 400 Varieties — Everything from A to Z 


CONTAINER GROWN ITEMS 

LARGE SHADE TREES 

• GROUND COVERS 

• OAKS 

• ROCK GARDEN PLANTS 

• MAPLES 

• FLOWERING SHRUBS 

• SYCAMORES 

• HARDY VINES 

• LINDEN 

• ROSES 

• MANY OTHERS 


Evergreens - One of the Best Selections in This Area! 
House Plants, Fertilizer, Potting Soil, Peat, Insecticides 
WHOLESALE AND RETAIL 


ILIFF GARDEN 

SK 6-5656 NURSERY 4750 E. ILIFF 


APRIL 


Vol. 

No. 


18 

3 


EDITORIAL 

COMMITTEE 

M. Walter Pesman, 
Chairman 

Julia Andrews 

Ars. Alexander Barbour 

Mrs. William Crisp 

Dr. A. C. Hildreth 

Fred R. Johnson 

Mrs. J. V. Petersen 

Mrs. John Scott 

Dr. Moras Shubert 

v\rs. James P. Steele, Jr. 

Mrs. Edmund Wallace 

Jr. Helen Marsh Zeiner 

Patrick Gallavan 

Mr. Everett Long 

Mrs. Everett Long 

Dr. James R. Feucht, 
Editor 


Members 


“the (fteen ~JTi limb 

To conduct research on plants, both native and exotic, in 
varied plant zones of our region, to evaluate their economic, 
medicinal and horticultural potentials. 

To coordinate the knowledge and experience of botanists, 
horticulturists and gardeners. 

To educate the public in the best use of horticultural 
materials. 

To maintain a large collection of plant species and varieties 
for study and display. 


INDEX 

TITLE PAGE 

Calendar of Events . 84 

Notes and Notices . 85 

John S. Barrows, by Robert E. More . 87 

Care and Maintenance of Lawns, 

by Charles M. Drage and George Beach . 89 

Pete Ponders . 92 

Plant Profiles, by George W. Kelly . 93 

Harry Swift and Western Native Plants, 

by Ruth Ashton Nelson . 95 

Missouri Botanical Garden, by Fritz Went . 98 

More Thoughts on Pruning .101 

Exotic Plants — What Are They? by Helen M. Zeiner ...102 

1960 Petunia Trials by the Denver Botanic Gardens, 

by A. C. Hildreth .104 

Late Winter Treat, by Kathryn Kalmbach .107 

Scoops by Scott (Formerly — "Composting"), 

by Mrs. John Scott .108 

Book Reviews .Ill 

What About Lawn Renovation? .112 


SENT FREE TO ALL MEMBERS OF THE ORGANIZATION. 
REGULAR MEMBERSHIP, $5.00; PARTICIPATING, $10.00; 
SUPPORTING, $25.00; CONTRIBUTING, $50.00; SUSTAIN¬ 
ING, $100.00. 

Copyright 1961 

DENVER BOTANIC GARDENS, INC. 

k 

A non-profit, privately financed Organization 

EA 2-9656 MA 3-1133, Ext. 428 

909 YORK ST. DENVER 6, COLORADO 


i 


Every Saturday Morning — 9:10 a.m. 
KLZ Radio. Various Gardening 
Topics by Herbert Gundell, Denver 
County Agent. 

Every Saturday Afternoon — 4:30 
p.m. KLZ TV Channel 7. Garden¬ 
ing Program by Herbert Gundell. 

At Botanic Gardens House, 909 York 

April 4 — 8:00 p.m. Tree Class. 
Topic: Soil and Trees. Mr. Seiji 
Horiuchi. 

April 10 — 10:00 a.m. Judges’ Coun¬ 
cil. 

f 

April 11 — 10:00 a.m. Herbarium 
Study Group. Mrs. Kalmbach. 

4:00 p.m. Citizens’ Park & Shade 
Tree Committee. 

7:30 p.m.—Evergreen Garden Club. 

April 12 — 4:00 p.m. Childrens’ Gar¬ 
den Group Meeting. 

April 13 — 7:30 p.m. Rose Society. 


April 18 — 8:00 p.m. Tree Cla 
Topic: Tree Leaves. Dr. A. C. H 
dreth. 

April 19 — 9:30 a.m. “Fun w 
Flowers” Workshop. 

April 20 — 10:00 a.m. “Around t| 
Seasons” Garden Club. 

April 21 — 7:30 p.m. Botany Cli 
7:30 p.m. Landscape Contractor} 

April 24 thru April 26 — 8:30 a.. 
State Flower Show School. M. 
Seastone, Chairman, Herbert Gi| 
dell and Bernice Lang, instructof 
May 1 — 9:30 a.m. Junior Comm-; 
tee. Mrs. Brown. 

May 2 — 1:00 p.m. Mountain Vic 
Garden Club Luncheon Meeting. 

May 3 — 7:30 p.m. Botany Club. 
May 4 — 7:45 p.m. Orchid Society 
May 5—2:00 p.m. Civic Garden CL 
Presidents’ Tea 

7:30 p.m. Landscape Contractor^ 


° p ° 


& 

*5 


o* 

0 

»o 


S 


DON'T MISS OUT ON THE CURRENT FREE 

§ 

Series of Lectures on the Care ^ 

of the Home Garden and Landscape & 

Every Monday Night at 7:15 
in the Downtown Store Tearoom of 

Cf Denver f ])i<r(j<)(m Co. 


I STILL TO COME ARE SUCH AUTHORITATIVE SPEAKERS AS 


MONDAY, APRIL 3 

Mr. Carl Jorgensen, Professor of 
Horticulture at Colorado State 
University. Subject: “ Modern Trends 
in Landscaping.” 

MONDAY, APRIL 10 

Mr. George A. Beach, Professor of 
Horticulture at C.S.U. Subject: 
“What To Plant—and How.” 


MONDAY, APRIL 17 

Dr. Donald Johnson, Agronomist 
at C.S.U. Subject: “Our Living Soil " 
preparation and fertilization. 

MONDAY, APRIL 24 

Dr. A. C. Hildreth, Director of the 
Denver Botanic Gardens. Subject: 
“Flowers You Fancy"— flowers which 
grow best in Colorado. 


MONDAY, MAY 1 

Mr. Gordon Mickle, Extension Entomologist at C.S.U. 
Subject: “Yard and Garden Insects and Their Control.” 


NOTES AND NOTICES 

THE DENVER TREE MEN’S ASSOCIATION held an election meeting 

1 1 February 14 at the Montclair Community Center. The following were 
ected for office: Russ Wiess of Marshall Nurseries, president; William Beebe 
Colorado Tree Experts, vice president; Lee Chambers — tree surgeon, secre- 
ry and Henry Norden of Denver Forestry and Landscape, treasurer. 

NEW HERBARIUM COMMITTEE MEMBER — Sue N. McLane of 
raig, Colorado is a new member of the Kathryn Kalmbach Herbarium 
immittee. 

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS — Beginning in the May issue of The 
reen Thumb, a question and answer column will appear—if we obtain enough 
jestions from you, the reader. Send in your questions now. Those of general 
terest will appear in a future issue with the name of the person asking the 
aestion and, of course, the answer. 

BOOKS AND BOOKLETS FOR SALE — The following books and 
loklets may be purchased in the office at the Denver Botanic Gardens House, 
39 York Street: 

round the Seasons by S. R. DeBoer. $1.00 


feet the Natives by M. Walter Pesman .spiral binding 3.60 

regular binding 3.00 

fountain Wild Flowers, a museum pictorial . 1.25 

lolorado Evergreens by Robert E. More . 2.50 


ow to Grow Good Gardens in the Sunshine States by George Kelly. 

spiral binding 3.25 
regular binding 3.00 


iga of a Forest Ranger by Len Shoemaker. 5.00 

ow to Identify Plants by H. D. Harrington. 3.00 

he Secret of the Green Thumb by Henry and Rebecca Northen . 5.00 

wig Key (Identification of trees and shrubs in winter) by William Harlow 0.60 
ruit Key (Identification of plants by their fruit) by William Harlow .... 0.60 

'hat Tree is This by the Denver City & County . 0.25 

ature Games by Nesbit. 0.60 


S. R. DE BOER PRESENTED THE DISTINGUISHED SERVICE 
WARD — The Distinguished Service Award of the American Institute of 
anners was presented to S. R. De Boer at a recent meeting of that organization 
Chicago. This award was granted for his pioneering work in the field of city 
anning and the creative and original ideas that he developed. Many of these 
novations have been adopted throughout the nation. (See the March, 1957 
id October, 1959 issues of The Green Thumb for articles concerning some of 
s work.) 

HARRY M. SWIFT PRESENTED AWARD FOR HORTICULTURAL 
CHIEVEMENT — The Colorado Nurserymen’s Association presented an 
vard for Horticultural Achievement to Harry M. Swift for his pioneering work 
the propagation of native trees and shrubs for use in landscape plantings. (For 
ore information concerning Harry Swift see the article by Ruth Ashton Nelson 
l page 95 of this issue.) 

THE DENVER ROSE SOCIETY — The treasurer of the Denver Rose 
jiciety presented a generous check to the Denver Botanic Gardens to be used 
r operations of the Botanic Gardens House. 

(Continued Next Page) 


85 


DR. AND MRS. WILLIAM C. STEERE VISIT THE DENVER B- 
TANIC GARDENS — Dr. and Mrs. William C. Steere of the New Ycc 
Botanic Gardens recently visited the Denver Botanic Gardens. Dr. Steere isj 
the director of the New York Botanic Gardens. 


J 


WELCOME WAGON — Welcome Wagon, Inc., is distributing about 7 
copies of The Green Thumb each month to new homeowners. 

FLORAL ARTS CLASSES — Floral Arts Classes are being conduct 
at Opportunity School each Thursday thru June. Three classes are held eajj 
time; 9:00 a.m., 10:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. Mrs. Bernice Lang, Instructor. 

MILE-HIGH GARDENING PROGRAM — Beginning April 4 and ev<y 
Tuesday thereafter for 13 weeks, Channel 6 — KRMA-TV will present^ 
gardening program entitled “Mile-high Gardening.” George Kelly of the Cott(.« 
wood Garden Shop in Littleton, Colorado will act as host. Sponsors of the p »i 
gram are; Alameda Nursery Inc., Belmont Electric Service, Creative Garde;, 
Marshall Nurseries, Roberts Nursery and W. W. Wilmore Inc. 


H< - 


LECTURES ON GARDENING AT THE DENVER DRY GOODS Cj 

_A series of lectures on gardening will be held in the Tearoom of the dov 

town Denver Dry Goods Co. Store beginning Monday, March 27 at 7:15 p 
and every Monday thereafter thru May 1. 

LIVING SCREENS FOR THE VALLEY HIGHWAY—Howard 
sett, Maintenance Superintendent of the Colorado Department of Highwa 
has reported that $3,000 worth of trees and shrubs are being planted along 
Valley Highway System. Two thousand Russian-olive trees are being plan 
between E. Iliff and E. Hampden Avenues and between S. Colorado Blvd. i 
S. Steele Street to screen noise and lights from residential areas along the hi; 
way. In addition, 125 6’-7’ upright junipers are being placed at major int: 
changes. 


FIESTA AND PLANT AUCTION 

SATURDAY, MAY 20 and SUNDAY, MAY 21, BOTANIC GARDENS HOUSE, 909 YORK STREET 
MARK THE DATE ON YOUR CALENDAR AND PLAN TO COME 
AN EXCITING EVENT IN A BEAUTIFUL SPOT 

ON DISPLAY AND FOR SALE ARE ARTICLES FOR THE GARDENER, 

FOR THE HOUSEWIFE AND FOR THE PERSON WHO HAS EVERYTHING. 

• GARDEN ACCESSORIES • 

• TOOLS • 

• EXOTIC PLANTS • 

• DISH GARDENS AND PLANTERS • 

TABLES ON THE LAWN FOR THE THIRSTY AND A PANCAKE GRILL FOR THE HUNGRY 

Rare things , old things , useful things 

COME ONE, COME ALL AND ENJOY THE FIESTA! 

_____—-—--—-- 


86 


JOHN S. BARROWS 

FOREWORD 

Robert E. More, who wrote this appreciation of our friend, the late John Barrows, reveals for 
a first time the names of the personages who enlivened The Green Thumb during the 1940's under 
s nom de plume of "Quercus" and "John Stockbridge." These battles of wit, gardening lore, and 
tanical knowledge had all Green Thumb readers chuckling and guessing the real names of the 
thors. The editor during that period, George Kelly, kept it a well guarded secret. 

If you want some good reading may I suggest that you consult the eleventh-year index of 
9 Green Thumb (Vol. 11, No. 12) and look up the Quercus and Stockbridge contributions. Inci- 
ntally, you will be gratified to see the abundance of excellent gardening, horticulture and land- 
, ape articles illustrated with good pictures, many of which were taken by George Kelly. 

Also, new members unfamiliar with Robert More's contributions to horticulture in Colorado are 
Ferred to his biography in the August, 1958, issue of The Green Thumb.— Fred. R. Johnson. 


John Stockbridge Barrows died De- 
t;mber 18, 1960. Statistics of his life 
-his education, his newspaper career, 
s war service, his advertising busi¬ 
es—have been noted in the press, 
ut Jack Barrows will be remembered 
i an extraordinarily warm, charming, 
'illiant and wholly different individ- 
il, and not in terms of statistics. 

I played with Jack’s Anchor building 
ocks when I was five, and he was 
ght, went fishing with him four years 
ter, and wholly enjoyed for more 
;ian sixty years thereafter his wit, 
^himsy, gentleness and gentility, and 
lis frolic sense of ceremony,” as Tom 
^crril aptly described one of Jack’s 
ost characteristic traits. 

Jack was tremendously interested in 
ants and gardening, and in the activ¬ 
es of The Colorado Forestry and 
orticulture Association. Frequently, 
hen a pungent notice of annual meet- 
g was needed, Jack’s pen would be 
;afted. He was on the Publicity Com- 
ittee at one time, with Fred R. John¬ 


son, and ghosted many an appeal for 
membership. When, in July 1944, I 
sent my first “Quercus (Queer-Cuss) 
Quips” to editor George Kelly, it 
sparked Jack to send to The Green 
Thumb in September, “Contented 
Earthworms Make Contented Garden¬ 
ers—Or Is It Vice Versa?” Jack sign¬ 
ed it “John Stockbridge,” and as I 
knew his middle name, I spotted the 
new contributor at once. Quercus 
made a sharp attack on native flowers 
and plants (always favorites of Jack’s) 
in the same issue, hoping to hear from 
“John Stockbridge.” And how he tore 
Quercus apart in November in his 
“Found: The True Poison Oak!” Any 
Green Thumber can get chuckle upon 
chuckle by going to our library and 
reading Jack’s spirited defense of “na¬ 
tives.” Jack wrote the last, and best, 
offering of Quercus. There had been 
suggestions that Quercus make a per¬ 
sonal appearance at the annual meet¬ 
ing and George Kelly received a letter 
from Quercus accepting an invitation 
to “appear and speak.” I tried to 


hardening may be divided into three species — kitchen-gardening — parterre- 
irdening — and landskip, or picturesque-gardening: which latter . . . consists 
i pleasing the imagination by scenes of grandeur, beauty, or variety. Conven- 
nce merely has no share here; any farther than it pleases the imagination.” 

—William Shenstone, 1764. 


andscape -Contractor 


LEW HAMMER, INC. 


Tel. WE. 5-5938 


87 


write a speech for him, but it just 
wouldn’t jell. Then I revealed the 
“Poison Oak’s” identity to Jack, and 
the Oak’s ineffectual efforts to write 
a speech. Jack, in an hour’s time, 
pecked out on his typewriter the speech 
that Irving Hale, in a marvelous green 
flowered suit, delivered at our banquet. 

French gardens always have the 
“Plaisance,” a retreat of beauty. At 
Jack’s home he had the “Unplaisance,” 
where were kept his manure, compost 
pile, undestroyed rubbish and the like. 
At Buffalo Park ten of us had a fishing 
lease on a three mile stretch along the 
Platte. (Later to become famous as 
Ike’s favorite fly stream.) Jack was 
Secretary of the club and the “Secre¬ 
tary’s Report” at the annual meeting 
was always the high spot of the year. 
It might or might not have aught to 
do with the club or fishing. But con¬ 


tent was always unexpected, invariali 
mirth provoking, and looked forwr 1 : 
to by all for weeks in advance. 

The first meeting room of The Co 
rado Forestry and Horticulture As: 
ciation was in Jack’s original offfceji 
the Morey Building at 16th and Bro;» 
way. Jack then had his official offli 
in the First National Bank Buildingji 
17th and Stout, but had kept this fi 


mer office as a retreat where he coujl 
without interruption, write ads, or ( 
servations of “John Stockbridge,” 
letters to Tom Ferril, Walker \ 
Riper and other privileged friends. Cl 
Association members of that vint| 
all have, I know, nostalgia for th 


meetings amidst stored furniture, tra; 
fer files, and the wholly delightful 
mosphere that was always pres 
when Jack Barrows was involved. 


m 

m 

m 

L«1 


!l[«|[»l[«1f»1[«l[KllKlf«l[Kll«l!«1[«lfKl[«1[Kl[K] ISIlg|[Sl fXl[«]|Kl[»H«1|KH«|[Klf«lg 

FOR A COMPLETE REPORT ON THE COLORADO 


GARDEN SHOW AND COMPETITIVE FLOWER SHOW 


l 


m 


DON’T MISS 


THE MAY 1961 ISSUE OF 


1 


teen 


um 


FOR YOUR ANNUAL FLOWER BED 
... TRY OUR PETUNIAS . . . 

TEDO SPANO BEDDING PLANTS 

5045 Marshall • HA 4-0964 


PLANTING A NEW LAWN? 

USE OUR PEAT MOSS— 

ALSO . . . FERTILIZER FOR THE 
GARDEN AND LAWN. 

RALSTON VALLEY EXCAVATING CO. 
5820 Lamar • HA 4-123f 


WATCH FOR OUR OPENING .... ON OR ABOUT 

MAY 5 AND 6 

GOLDEN HOME AND GARDEN CENTER 

715V2 13th Street, Golden, Colo. CR 9-2112 


88 


CARE AND MAINTENANCE OF LAWNS 1 


Charles M. Drage 


3l 

$$ 

)a 

Si 

a 

ft 

ill 

0 

\ 


A beautiful lawn is a good invest- 
lent. For the time, money and effort 
jquired, few home improvements pay 
reater dividends in satisfaction and 
ctual increase of property value than 
well-tended lawn. 

If your lawn is to continually im- 
rove and to give you lasting satisfac- 
on, you must give it faithful care. The 
2 sult of proper fertilizing, watering, 
nd mowing can be a beautiful weed- 
ree turf. The thick, velvety texture 
nd uniform green color of the well 
ept bluegrass lawn are the goals of 
very Colorado home owner. 


! Turf authorities agree that the poor 
4iwn is the most troublesome. Some- 
jmes it is even the most expensive, 
hat’s because it may be necessary to 
i lant again, possibly during the fol¬ 
lowing year. With these thoughts in 
lind, we offer the following sugges- 
|ons for the home owner who desires 
o establish a long-lasting, excellent 
iiwn. 


Preparation of Site 

Site preparation includes the clean- 
j p and removal of debris, not only on 
_ fie surface but also that which is 
^uried at shallow depths. Remove 
ocks and building materials such as 
•laster, cement and stone. None of 


and George Beach 2 

these materials should remain in the 
first foot of soil. 

Next, establish a “rough grade” by 
filling repeatedly and soaking all areas 
where there are trenches for utility 
lines. This will cause the soil to set¬ 
tle to a uniformly firm surface. Unless 
this is done, high and low spots will 
appear after the grass is established. 

There are places where a perfectly 
level lawn is the only practical grade. 
But where conditions permit, a gently 
sloping surface is the most pleasing 
and natural. Large expanses of per¬ 
fectly level lawn give a stiff, strained 
effect which is never found in nature. 
The ideal drainage situation is a sur¬ 
face sloping gradually away from the 
home in all directions. 

Soil Preparation 

Colorado soils are generally quite 
low in organic matter. Sub-soil left on 
the surface and frequently called “buil¬ 
ders” or “contractors” soil may contain 
only trace amounts of organic matter. 
Therefore, the safest procedure is to 
work large quantities of organic mat¬ 
ter into the upper 6 or 8 inches of soil. 
Organic materials include animal ma¬ 
nures, peatmoss, leafmold, compost, 
sludge or various mixtures of these 
materials. The organic matter should 
be applied at a rate of not less than 2 
cubic yards per 1,000 square feet of 
area (this is equal to a solid layer 
two-thirds of an inch deep). 

It’s best to “fortify” the organic ma¬ 
terial with 15 to 20 pounds of P 2 0 5 
(or phosphate) per 1,000 square feet. 
And, if the soil is sandy, 15 to 25 
pounds of K l .O (or potash) should be 
added. Or you may use 200 pounds 
of a complete fertilizer high in phos- 


——- 

1 Reprinted, in part, from Bulletin 452A and Circular 197-A, Colorado State Univer 
ity Extension Service, Fort Collins, Colorado. 

2 Horticulturist, Extension Service, and Horticulturist, Colorado Agricultural Exped¬ 
ient Station, respectively, Colorado State University, Fort Collins. 


89 


• ^ 


phate—such as 4-12-4 or 5-10-5— 
per 1,000 square feet of surface. This 
type of application provides ample 
nitrogen and usually a sufficient 
amount of potash even on sandy soils. 

Considerable raking will be needed 
to level the soil. After the site is 
rolled, low spots may be detected. 
These may be filled by continual rak¬ 
ing. One caution: clay and clay-loam 
soils must not be worked when wet 
because they tend to clod and dry into 
hard, compact masses. 

Insure a Good Stand 
Seed - Mulch - Water - Feed - Mow 

For a good turf, a single grass is 
better than a mixture. And bluegrass 
has demonstrated that it is the best 
variety for the average home lawn in 
Colorado, assuming that water is avail¬ 
able for irrigation. 

In figuring the amount of grass seed 
to use, first compute the number of 
square feet in the area you plan to 
seed. Then buy seed of high purity 
and high germination. If the seedbed 
is properly prepared and maintained, 
three pounds of quality seed are suffi¬ 
cient to provide an excellent stand of 
grass on each 1,000 square feet. 

The best time of the year to sow 
bluegrass is from August 15 to Sep¬ 
tember 15. Seeding at this time allows 
you to “get a jump on the weeds” be¬ 
cause sod that is developed in the fall 
is able to compete with the next 
spring’s weeds much more favorably 
than sod from spring-sown seed. 


Fall sowing also gives greater 


portunity to do a thorough job of :il 


and seedbed preparation. Weeds 


seldom a problem. If fall sowing 
not practical, the next best time 
early spring. March is preferred o 
April, if the soil can be properly p 
pared that early. Competing sprj 
weeds can be controlled by soil tret 
ment with various chemicals bef 
planting. One of the best is calci 
cyanamide which may be spread eve 
over the prepared seedbed at the r 
of 50 pounds per 1,000 square fit 
The chemical should be applied ab 
two weeks before the grass is see( 
and the surface of the seedbed sho 
be kept moist in the intervening tii; 

Apply the seed evenly on the s:- 


•e 


:r 


face by using a previously tes 
spreader or by hand. With eit 
method, divide the seed into two eq all 
parts, and sow one-half of it by go 
across the area from north to soi 
Plant the other half by walking acr 
the area east and west. A wire bro 
or rake, pulled lightly over the surf; 
following the seeding will do a gc 
job in covering the seed 


MARSOLEK'S GARDEN & FLOWER CENTER 

GRASS SEED—Scotts, Northrup King and Barteldes 

PACKAGED SEEDS—Northrup King, Mandeville King 

and Barteldes 

FERTILIZERS—Milorganite, Pax, Vigoro, Scotts, etc. 

GARDEN TOOLS—Rakes, Shovels, Forks, Hoes, 

Garden Hose, Sprinklers 

MARSOLEK'S Garden Department 

2606 E. Colfax • Open Evenings till 8:00 P.M. • FR 7-2764 

Across from East High • Open Sunday 9:00 - 5:00 


\ 

5 


; The mulch should be applied im- 
lediately after seeding to hold the 
»;ed in place and to help keep the 
qrface moist. The mulch should be 
om one-eighth to one-fourth inch 
eep. Possible mulching materials in- 
ude finely granulated peatmoss, leaf- 
lold, compost, sawdust or straw. 

Jj Straw is sometimes an objectionable 
laterial because it blows off easily 
paving some spots bare and others 
$ .)0 deeply covered. It may also blow 
ito neighboring yards. Straw also may 
Contain weed or crop seeds. The same 
’. often true of animal manures. 

J The mulch should be sprinkled im¬ 
mediately after it is applied and then 
•j ept moist until the seedlings are es¬ 
tablished. This may require twice-a- 
qay watering. Always use a fine mist 
t r spray to prevent the soil or seed 
mom washing away. When the seeds 
iegin to germinate, the intervals be- 
Jveen watering should be increased 
iradually. 


When the grass reaches a height of 
Vi inches, clip off a half-inch. On 
uture mowings, clip about a half-inch, 
saving the grass about 1 Vi to 2 inches 
ligh. 

Future Care 

Your fertilizer program should pro- 
ide from 4 to 6 pounds of available 
litrogen per year for each 1,000 
quare feet. Divide the fertilizer ap- 
•lication into two feedings when 4 
•ounds of nitrogen are used and into 


three feedings when the 6 pound rate 
is used. The best times for applying 
the fertilizer are, (1) when the grass 
starts to green up in the spring, usually 
in April and, (2) in late August. When 
three feedings are made, the second 
feeding should be about six weeks after 
the first. 

A “complete fertilizer” is one that 
will contain phosphate, and perhaps 
potash, in addition to the nitrogen. 
Phosphate and potash, when needed, 
will make grass darker in color, more 
sturdy and disease-resistant. The com¬ 
plete fertilizer should be applied at a 
rate to supply the desired amount of 
nitrogen. 


Your watering program should pro¬ 
vide 1 Vi inches of water per week dur¬ 
ing the active growing season. Do not 
water established grass more often 
than every three or four days. On well- 
established, deep-rooted grass, once 
every week or ten days may be enough. 
Avoid frequent, light waterings. 

When mowing leave grass from IV 2 
to 2 inches high after mowing. Clip¬ 
pings can be left on the lawn if they 
are not heavy and long. 

Remember—weeds are not a prob¬ 
lem in lawns that are vigorous, healthy 
and properly cared for. 


SK 6-0789 

JOHN VAN WYK 

LANDSCAPING 

New Lawns • Planting • Fertilizing 
Roto Tilling 

2101 South Adams Denver 10, Colo. 


91 


oPete &(md$\b 

Dear Pete: 

r 

I’ve heard there’s a liceless snow¬ 
ball so fragrant its aroma is discernible 
a block away. Can you tell me the 
name of such a plant, and will it 
grow here? 

Sniffer 


Dear Sniffy: 

Viburnum carlesi is probably your 
jewel. The specimen that “scent” me 
grows on the north side of South High 
(I’m not confused, are you?). Seem¬ 
ingly equipped with a bug repellent, 
this medium height shrub has foliage 
similar to Wayfaring Tree, Viburnum 
lantana. An improved species is Vibur¬ 
num carcephallum, more vigorous in 
growth with blossoms almost as frag¬ 
rant as V. carlesi. Both species have 
thrived for me on a northeast exposure. 
V. burkwoodi, Koreanspice, while not 
as fragrant as V. carlesi, will grow un¬ 
der similar conditions. 

(For more information on Vibur¬ 
nums read George Kelly’s article “Plant 
Profiles”, March, 1961 issue of The 
Green Thumb. — Ed.) 

Dear Pete, 

On the Look and Learn Garden 
Tours last year I saw a lovely blue- 
green serpentine-like plant growing in 
a rock wall. It wasn’t a sedum. The 
name sounded like a trousseau item — 
in fact, that’s what the expert giggled. 

WishINu 


Dear NowUNo, 

From your description the plar 
may be Euphorbia myrsinites, a spurge 
An excellent perennial for the rocker! 
or for a ground cover, because it re 
tains that luscious foliage throughoi 
the year, and its yellow bloom at th| 
tip of each stem appears in Februar 
and early March. Let me caution tin 
in picking off seed heads or pickin 
blossoms, beware of the milk-like sa 
— it may burn the skin, or if rubbe 
near the eyes it may make them puf 
It’s worth the precautions. 

Dear Pedro: 

I want a good grass to grow und( 
my precious shade tree. Maybe w 
could practice the carioca there, Nc 

Needa Shade 

Dear Needa: 

Decisions! Decisions! Some exper 
say, “Choose which you want, tree ( 
lawn.” 

Henry Gestefield had great succe: 
at Fitzsimons hospital grounds wit 
Redtop. Even the horses’ frolickir 
in the area failed to deter it. OtheJ 
consider Redtop a short-lived gra: 
and recommend Illahee Fescue, a fm 
bladed grass. Meadowgrass, whi 
coarser, will survive. 

If you like to live modern you migl 
enjoy an all-weather cover such ; 
flagstone, crushed rock or wood block 

Some of the ground covers—ajug 
pachysandra, myrtle or English ivy a 
suitable substitutes for grass. They a 
usually available at the plant auctio 
This year’s May event will be staged 
living color under the title—Fiesta! 

Happy Carioca, No? See you at tl 
Fiesta, Yes! 


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92 


] 


PLANT PROFILES 


George W. Kelly 


Cutleaf Sumac 

Most gardeners are familiar with the 
Iry common Staghorn Sumac Rhus 
phina, which grows quite tali and has 
ich a brilliant red fall color. A few 
|e becoming familiar with the Eastern 
Jaooth Sumac, Rhus glabra, and its 
jvarf counterpart, the native Rocky 
ountain Sumac, Rhus cismontana. 
>me have even come to recognize 
hers in the genus, such as the native 
■ unkbush Sumac, Rhus triloba, or the 
jack sheep of the family, the Poison 
5 1y, Rhus toxicodendron. 

Few gardeners know or use the cut- 
af forms of these familiar plants, 
^ch as the Cutleaf Staghorn Sumac, 
ihus typhina laciniata, or the Cutleaf 
inooth Sumac, Rhus glabra laciniata. 


CUTLEAF STAGHORN SUMAC 


getting over 4 feet in height. This gives 
the plant a distinctive appearance, both 
in leaf and when bare in winter. It 
should be planted only where this in¬ 
formal character is appropriate. Since 
our gardens are showing more of the 
Japanese influence we often need these 
“character” plants for some special 
effect in a particular spot. 

The fall color of the Cutleaf Stag¬ 
horn Sumac is also distinctive in that 
it is more of an orange or pink than the 
brilliant red of the other sumacs. 

The even less known Cutleaf Smooth 
Sumac is a still more dwarf plant with 
a habit much like the native species. 
It h as brilliant red fall color and a 
delicate character, with its cut leaves, 
that is found in no other locally grown 
ornamental plant. 

Unfortunately these interesting 
plants are not handled generally by 
nurserymen, but can be obtained if the 
gardening public demands them. 

Desmodium 

There is considerable confusion 
among authorities as to the correct 
botanical name for this plant, but it 
usually is called Lespedeza bicolor. It 
is a year-round shrub in the south but 
dies to the ground here each winter. 
Since it blooms in the fall this her¬ 
baceous perennial habit is no more 
objectionable than in the case of the 
Buddleias. 


The Cutleaf Staghorn Sumac (here 
ustrated) does not grow tall and 
assive like the regular Staghorn, but 
nds to sprawl and curve, seldom 


The plant usually sends up many 
stems to a height of about four feet. 
The stems are slender and tend to droop 
over giving the plant a graceful effect. 
In fall the stems are covered with 


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FLOWERS OF DESMODIUM 


m 

FRUIT OF WAHOO EUONYMUS 


many pink or purple pea-like flowers. 
While the flower color is difficult to 
harmonize with other colors, there are 
few others flowers in bloom at the time 
Desmodium is in bloom and it has the 
whole show to itself. The plant has 
a deep root system and tolerates very 
dry situations in our area. It definitely 
fills a place all its own in our Colo¬ 
rado gardens. 

Wahoo Euonymus 

The genus Euonymus offers many 
fine ornamental species. They range 
all the way from the tree-like Euro¬ 
pean Euonymus, E. europaeus to the 
tiny creeping vine, E. fortunei mini¬ 
mus. In between we have the very use¬ 
ful Winged Euonymus, E. alatus, and 
the newly popular evergreen varieties. 

Euonymus atropurpureas, the East¬ 
ern Wahoo, is a tall shrub in the Lilac- 
Viburnum class. It is often rather in¬ 
formal in shape but may be trimmed 


to any desired form. The flowers a 
small and not conspicuous, but ge 
erally more attractive than those 
most other Euonymus species. T 
fruit is the striking character of tfj. 
plant. On selected types, the fruit m 
almost completely cover the stems ai 
remain on over the winter. The col 
of the fruit is pink and orange, mu 
resembling bittersweet. Another ve 
valuable asset of this plant is the brig 
rose-red fall color of its foliage. B 
cause of this uncomplimentary sha 
of red, this species should not 
planted near Amur Maple and suma 
both of which have bright red f 
foliage. 


Eastern Wahoo is rather easy 
transplant and tolerates a variety 
our soils. It is inclined to sucker fro 
the roots but this is not especially o 
jectionable because it merely furnish 
new plants to give to the garden-min: 
ed neighbors. 


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4201 East lliff 

SK 6-4040 

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94 


HARRY SWIFT 


AND 

WESTERN NATIVE 
PLANTS 

Ruth Ashton Nelson 


Harry M. Swift was quite surprised 
id very gratified to receive the first 
vard from the Colorado Nursery- 
l.en’s Association for “Outstanding 
Achievement in Horticulture” (see 
A)tes and notices page 85). Only about 
a n years ago he became interested in 
" owing evergreen seedlings and start- 
jjl attending the Nurserymen’s meet- 
gs. For the first several years he sat 
lietly and attentively absorbing all 
j could on how to grow plants. About 
at time he had found himself in the 
hrsery business. In spite of the lack of 
evious training in horticulture his 
eds were growing and he was thor- 
tfighly enjoying the venture. He lis- 
cjned to the experts and learned from 
r;ch people as Dr. A. C. Hildreth, 
fcborge Kelly, Bill Lucking, Bob More 
e id many others. 

® Swift, who had grown up on a farm 
Kansas, studied history and psy- 
-ology. After teaching for two years 
took a Master’s degree in political 


HARRY SWIFT IN HIS NURSERY ALONG SIDE 
A ROW OF BETULA FONTINALIS SEEDLINGS. 


science at the University of Kansas 
and then spent thirty months in the 
Air Force after which he held a fed¬ 
eral office position in Denver where, 
he says, his working time was spent in 
“shuffling papers”. So he started build¬ 
ing a home for his growing family. 
This occupied the weekends and vaca¬ 
tions for nineteen months because he 
did all of the work himself. After it 
was finished he had time on his hands. 
The office job had become routine. 
One day he visited the Forest Service 
Seedling Nursery at Monument. He 
says he was given some discarded, 12- 
year-old seed of blue spruce and 
Douglas-fir which he took home and 
planted, “. . . instead of carrots”. In 
spite of age most of the seed germi¬ 
nated and he soon had hundreds of 
seedlings which took up all of his gar¬ 
den space. He rented a vacant lot, ob¬ 
tained more seed, and raised more 
seedlings, finding a ready market for 
the tiny trees. (Cont’d Next Page) 


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Loveland, Colorado 


This was such interesting work that 
in 1959 Harry Swift left federal ser¬ 
vice and now devotes all his time to 
his Western Evergreen Seedling Nur¬ 
sery in which his wife, Pauly, is a 
working partner. Pauly handles the 
books, orders, and retail end of the 
business. In 1955 the Swifts moved to 
a farm about three miles east of Gol¬ 
den. Here there was plenty of acreage 
for the expanding nursery business 
and a comfortably large house for 
the growing family. 

Then he began going into the moun¬ 
tains to collect his own seed of native 
cone-bearing trees. On these excur¬ 
sions in late summer and fall, being 
interested in seed, he noticed numer¬ 
ous deciduous shrubs and trees in fruit 
and soon he was bringing back many 
different kinds of seeds. Seed gather¬ 
ing excursions became family vaca¬ 
tions. The Swift children helped in 
the collecting and Pauly presided over 
the campfire. Thus began his interest 
in growing native deciduous shrubs. 
To his delight he found several people 
in the Denver area who encouraged 
him to grow all the natives he could 
obtain. 

Before this, three people interested 
in Colorado horticulture, D. M. An¬ 
drews, Kathleen Marriage, and George 
Kelly, had realized the value of our 
drought - resistant local flora and 


worked to interest the public in usi 
native shrubs and perennials in th 
gardens. They had collected natij 
plants and seed which they offered ; 
the few gardeners who asked for thd 
and they wrote articles for publicatij 
in attempts to stimulate interest 
these hardy species. Perhaps their 
forts are bearing fruit today in the 
creasing demand for native plant n 
terial. But, until Harry Swift beg 
growing these plants from seed on 
large scale there was no adequ; 
commercial supply available. It is t 
achievement which the Colorado N 
serymen’s Association has recognh 
in making its award to Harry Swift. 

When I talked with Harry the c 
after he received the award he v 
modestly elated at this honor bul 
think he was even more enthusias 
over several flats of Betula glanduh j 
seed which had just germinated, 
asked which species of the natives! 
most in demand. He answered, “A 
honia repens (Creeping Holly Graf 
and many people ask for Aspen.” 

He is very enthusiastic about Cl 
leaf Mountain Mahogany, a valua 
broad-leaf evergreen shrub which 
has been testing for several ye; 
Cowania is another evergreen wh 
promises to be very desirable ; 
Apache Plume which is semi-e\ 
green, has been proved satisfactory 


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96 


Colorado Springs and Denver 
reas. A species that is already in de- 
land is the Water Birch, Betula fon- 
nalis. This he now has in quantity. 

Many of the new suburban homes, 
f which Colorado has literally thou- 
ands, are modernistic in design and 
uilt on the mesas and foothills along 
ae Front Range where the develop- 
lent of a conventional type of land- 
:aping including lush green lawns, 
Irubbery borders and flower beds, is 
ot only prohibitive in cost but out 
f tune with the architecture and na- 
iral setting. The owners of these 
laces are welcoming this supply of 
ardy and appropriate plant material 
Inthusiastically. Garden designers are 
qually appreciative as they discover 
le value of these drought-resistant 
secies for the “low maintenance” 
lantings so much in demand today. 

The value of using the native spe- 
es for plantings on a large scale was 
nphasized at the U. S. Air Academy 


where thousands of thimbleberry, su¬ 
mac, wild rose, mountain privet, creep¬ 
ing mahonia, mountain mahogany, 
and kinnikinnic shrubs were set out on 
road embankments, bare hillsides and 
around buildings in the tremendous 
landscaping program carried on there. 

At last it is being recognized that 
these plants which nature has been 
evolving for generations as an adjust¬ 
ment to our dry, sunny, changeable 
climate, are the ones to count on for 
practical highway plantings, for ero¬ 
sion control and to beautify our mo¬ 
dern, functional homes. Harry Swift 
has realized this and his efforts to de¬ 
velop a high class commercial supply 
of this native plant material has been 
recognized as a valuable contribution 
to horticulture in the Rocky Mountain 
region. 

Attend the Fiesta 
and Plant Auction 
May 20 and 21 


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GEORGE E. DRAPER 


2697 South Madison 


SK 6-4739 


97 


I 


INSIDE THE MAIN GATE AT THE MISSOURI BOTANICAL GARDEN ARE POOLS FILLED WITH TROPIC, 
WATER LILIES COLLECTED AND DEVELOPED OVER MANY YEARS UNDER THE DIRECTION OF GEORC 
H. PRING, SUPERINTENDENT OF THE GARDEN, AND WIDELY-KNOWN AUTHORITY ON WATER LILIP 
MAY THROUGH OCTOBER, THE THREE LILY POOLS ARE A MAJOR POINT OF INTEREST FOR VISITOIt 
TO THE GARDEN. Photo by Peter Ferman Photographf 

MISSOURI BOTANICAL GARDEN I 

Frits Warmolt Went 
Director, The Missouri Botanical Garden 


ABOUT THE AUTHOR 


Frits W. Went was born at Utrecht, 
Holland, May 18, 1903, the son of 
Dr. F.A.F.C. Went, late Professor of 
Botany and Director of the Botanic 
Garden of the University of Utrecht. 
He was educated at the University of 
Utrecht, receiving a Ph.D. in 1927. 
From 1927 to 1933 he was Plant 
Physiologist at the Royal Botanical 
Gardens of Buitenzorg, Java; came to 
U.S.A. in 1933 as Assistant Professor 
of Plant Physiology at California In¬ 
stitute of Technology and promoted to 
Professor of Plant Physiology in 1935. 

Dr. Went received an Honorary 
Doctorate from the University of Paris, 
is a member of the National Academy 
of Sciences (U.S.A.), the Koninklijke 
Nederlandse Akademie van Weten- 


schappen (Holland) and the Academ? 
des Sciences (France) and numeroi! 
professional scientific societies. 

He was awarded one of fifi 
Certificates of Merit conferred in cel! 
bration of the fiftieth anniversary ■ 
the founding of the Botanical Socie 
of America at the University of Co: 
necticut. 

During his early years in Californ 
Dr. Went worked on hormonal contr 
of plant growth. His research interes 
gradually turned to environmental i 
fluences on plant growth, both in n 
ture and experimentally by means 
his unique Phytotron—a greenhous 
laboratory with a mechanically co 
trolled environment. 

Dr. Went became director of tl 


98 


* 


issouri Botanic Garden in 1958. 

In the following article (in three 
rts) Dr. Went describes the history 
d development of the Missouri Bo¬ 


tanical Garden (Part I) and, in the 
May issue, the geodesic dome-shaped 
Climatron (Part II) and the educa¬ 
tional program (Part III). 


I. History and Development 


The Missouri Botanical Garden, an 
ja of 70 acres located in the center 
St. Louis, was founded over 100 

I ars ago by Henry Shaw a private 
izen. The garden was his greatest 
ntribution to the future of St. Louis, 
t he made many other donations to 
2 city, such as Tower Grove Park, 
285-acre tract adjacent to the Mis- 
uri Botanical Garden, and the Henry 
aw School of Botany at Washington 
liversity, with which the garden 
aintains a close relationship. For 
ase early days, the creation of the 
issouri Botanical Garden as a private 
mtution for public enjoyment, for 
itanical research and for the educa- 
>n of gardeners and students was 
□st remarkable in view of the fact 
iat practically all botanical gardens 
those days were very restricted in 
eir activities. But apparently Shaw 
is well aware that a botanical garden 
i thout research and educational facil- 
es is only a torso, rather than a well- 
unded, functional institution. 

At his death in 1889 Shaw left his 
fry considerable fortune as an en- 
>wment to maintain the garden in 
irpetuity, and to this end designated 
j self-perpetuating board of trustees, 
t iich administers the endowment and 
^points the director, who operates the 
| rden. 

In the 100 years of its existence, 
e garden has made for itself an im- 
j)rtant place in the botanical world, 
id at present has one of the largest 


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herbaria as well as one of the most 
important botanical libraries in the 
United States. The garden itself, which, 
in Shaw’s time, was a beautiful garden 
around his country estate, Tower 
Grove, gradually through the efforts 
of botanists such as Engelmann, Tre- 
lease, Moore, Edgar Anderson, and 
many others, developed a fine collec¬ 
tion of tropical plants, which were kept 
in the extensive greenhouse ranges. 

Whereas during the first 50 years, 
the endowment income was ample to 
maintain the garden, to develop its 
library and herbarium and to carry out 
botanical research work, gradually the 
endowment income lagged behind the 
garden’s financial needs as a result of 
the enormous increases in the cost of 
labor and materials. For example, 
when Henry Shaw prepared his 1885 
budget, he included therein the yearly 
pay for 24 gardeners at a total cost 
of $8,000; and for the heating of 
greenhouses, orangeries and staff 
houses, a sum of $900 (our present 
fuel bill is nearly $30,000). Since the 
garden receives no financial support 
for operations from City, County, State 
or Federal Governments, the opera¬ 
tions had to be gradually reduced until 
the physical appearance of the garden 
and greenhouses no longer conformed 
with the standards which must be 
maintained by a botanical garden. 
This was also evidenced by the de¬ 
creased public interest in the garden, 
so that the annual attendance, which 


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ran to approximately 400,000 persons 
thirty years ago, was gradually reduced 
to 155,000 in 1955. 

At that time the trustees and direc¬ 
tor decided on a new course which 
would involve deficit budgeting, but it 
was hoped that an improved garden 
would attract sufficient public interest 
so that the deficit could be met with 
public contributions. This policy seems 
to be paying off, since the contribu¬ 
tions made to the garden by private 
individuals and by an organization of 
“Friends of the Garden” have in¬ 
creased to more than $50,000 per 
year in 1960 with income from the 
admissions to the new Climatron add¬ 
ing another $100,000. Thus, it is 
hoped that soon the strictly gardening 
operation will be paying for itself, so 
that the endowment income can be 
used for research and education. 

At present there are several botani- 
ical gardens and garden parks in Eu¬ 
rope which are almost or wholly self- 
supporting, and we hope that the 
Missouri Botanical Garden will be the 
first of the American botanical gardens 
to reach this desirable goal. Of the 
three basic sources of support for bo¬ 
tanical gardens—endowment income, 
public funds through tax revenue and 
contributions from those persons most 
directly interested—the latter seems to 
us the most desirable. There are today 
very few organizations rich enough to 
operate entirely from endowment in¬ 


come. Tax support brings with it tf 
implication that every citizen must pa 
a share of the institution’s cost, whetl 
er or not he cares about its purpose^ 
Direct support, in the form of mode 
admission charges for selected featur* 
(there is no general admission to tf 0 
garden), patronage of concessions, an I 
annual contributions from those pec 
pie who use and love the garden seem f 
on the basis of our experience of re 11 
cent years, to be a distinct possibilil) 
for the larger cities of America. 


The Missouri Botanical Garden h 
almost two acres under glass and hc| 
an especially valuable collection d 
orchids (both hybrids and species) 
Araceae and of succulents. Durin 
their 40-50 years of existence tf 
greenhouses had deteriorated consicll 
erably and needed very extensive rc| 
pairs. With the recent advances in th 
air-conditioning of greenhouses, it w£ 
deemed inadvisable to repair the o 
greenhouses, with the result that t 
garden has embarked on an ambitiot 
rehabilitation program involving prac 
tically all of its greenhouses. 


The first stage in this rehabilitatio 
program was the replacement of th 
old Palm and Economic Houses wit 
a larger, geodesic dome-shaped, Plex 
glas-covered greenhouse, the Clime 
tron. 


{In the next issue, Dr. Went will de 
scribe the Climatron in detail. — Ed .) 


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100 


MORE THOUGHTS ON PRUNING 


On page 69 of the March 1961 issue of The Green Thumb, Lee Chambers, 
ee surgeon, presented an article entitled “Briefing for Spring Pruning”. In 
iis article Mr. Chambers emphasized the fact that many of the trees in the 
►enver area and suburbs were incorrectly pruned, or, to put it in Lee’s own 
ords, .' the butchery that is so prevalent throughout this area” and . . . 
The streets ... are literally lined with atrocities committed in the name of 
orticulture.” The following photographs will tell their own story. They are 
epical scenes taken somewhere in the greater Denver area. Look around you, 
du will see similar examples. 


Now let’s see what a good pruning 
•runing” photographs. 


Photos Courtesy of Fred Johnson 

job is by comparing “before and after 


Photos Courtesy of Lee Chambers 


BEFORE PRUNING 


AFTER PRUNING 


A few words of advice to the tree owner . . . 

DON’T prune your trees yourself unless you know how to do it properly. 
DON’T prune your own trees* especially large ones, without the proper 
safety equipment. 

DO rely only on reputable tree surgeons to do the job. (The tree surgeons 
advertised in this issue are reputable.) 


101 


EXOTIC PLANTS-WHAT ARE THEY? 


Helen Marsh Zeiner 


Plants are frequently referred to as 
“exotics”. To most people, this im¬ 
mediately brings to mind a picture of 
something beautiful and rare. Strictly 
speaking, however, exotic means “be¬ 
longing by nature or origin to another 
part of the world; brought in from 
abroad; foreign; strange; as, an exotic 
flower”, or simply, “something not na¬ 
tive”. 1 Exotic plants, then, are simply 
those not native to a region, and may 
be neither beautiful nor rare. Ken¬ 
tucky blue grass, for example, is an 
extremely common lawn and pasture 
grass and can also be found “growing 
wild” where it has escaped from cul¬ 
tivation and has become naturalized. 
Certainly no one could call Kentucky 
blue grass rare—yet it is an exotic, 
brought from Europe to the east coast 
of North America from whence it 
gradually extended its range wherever 
conditions were suitable for its growth. 
Now it may be found almost anywhere 
in the United States where it is moist 
enough for it to become established. 
Many of our common weeds are exo¬ 
tics—often neither beautiful nor, un¬ 
fortunately, rare. 

Definitions may tell us what exotic 
plants are, but they cannot tell the 


1 Definition from Funk and Wagnalls’ 
New College Standard Dictionary. 


r. 


stories behind these plants — tale 
which are sometimes commonplace 
sometimes exciting adventure storie: 
which could compete with any fiction 

From earliest times people hav< 
been interested in plants—for food, fo 
medicine, and for the plants them 
selves. Wherever man went, he sav 
plants. Sometimes they were differen 
from those at home, and he took then 
back with him. He perhaps found then 
a pleasing addition to his diet, or fel 
that they might be useful in treating 
his ailments, or sometimes it was jus 
because they interested him. Some 
times man went deliberately in searcl 
of plants, particularly for those whicl 
might fill a need. Thus even early mar 
began to build up gradually a popula 
tion of exotic plants. 

This search for new plants has nevei 
stopped, and there are many people' 
today who are busily hunting nev\ 
plants for our pleasure or use. 

Most of our house plants and many 
of our trees, shrubs, and garden flowers 
are exotics—not to mention the vege¬ 
tables and herbs in the kitchen gardens 
There are many interesting stories o] 
how we came to have certain of these 
plants, most of which came with man’s 
help from far away places. Othei 
plants are transported to new locations 
quite by accident—seeds or spores may; 
cling to superstructures of ships, tc 


Swingle Tree Surgeons offer a complete service to preserve the Beauty 
and Health of your trees, Evergreens, and shrubs. 


SWINGLE 


TREE SURGEONS 


620 So. Dahlia 


DE 3-4417 


FR 7-8123 


102 


lilroad trains, to automobiles, or even 
rplanes. Some of these are carried 
l>r very long distances before they 
rop to the ground, where they grow 
i conditions are suitable. Sometimes 
le seeds of exotics are mixed with 
jiipments of other seeds, or are pres¬ 
it in packing materials. No matter 
pw accidental the introduction, they 
■re still exotics. Many of these acci- 
ientally introduced exotics, as well as 
thers which were introduced for a 
urpose but which have escaped and 
scome naturalized, have become nuis- 
nce plants. 

j Plants which have been brought in 
y plant explorers have crossed only 
heir first hurdle by reaching the new 
>cation. They arrive at conservatories, 
xperimental gardens, or private col- 
ctions, and are little more than col- 
ctor’s items until they prove them- 
plves worthy of cultivation. Then they 
iust be propagated successfully and 
i quantity for market—often a long 
ad tedious process. 

In any part of the United States— 
ideed, in any part of the world— 
tany of the ornamental plants are ex¬ 


otics. The plains states have a very 
large proportion of exotics since the 
number of native shrubs and trees is 
limited as a result of the climate. Even 
the native mountain shrubs when 
brought down to the plains could be 
considered as exotics in the plains area. 

In a series of future articles, some 
of the exotic plants to be found in 
Denver (and in other parts of the 
Rocky Mountain states as well) will 
be discussed. If you are interested in 
knowing the stories back of our com¬ 
mon plants, watch for these articles. 

If you would like to read some very 
interesting books on this subject, the 
following are suggested. 

The World in Your Garden, Na¬ 
tional Geographic Society. 

The Story of Gardening, Richardson 
Wright. 

Man and Gardens, Nan Fairbrother. 

Foods America Gave the World, 
A. H. Verrill. 

Also manuals for identification of 
plants will give information on source 
of the plant. 


LEE CHAMBERS 

850 KEARNEY STREET 
Complete Care and Maintenance 
of 

Trees, Shrubs and Evergreens 


FR 7-0036 


TREE SURGEON 

DENVER 20, COLORADO 


Custom Spraying 
Fully Licensed and Insured 


MEMBER 


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.. iiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii 


103 


A. C. Hildreth 


The petunia is America’s most pop¬ 
ular annual flower. Nowhere does it 
seem more at home or develop better 
flower color than under the bright 
sunlight and cool night temperatures 
of our high-altitude climate. 

Petunias have been cultivated for 
about 138 years. During that time 
many different plant forms, flower 
types and colors have been developed. 
The recent introduction of Fx hybrids 
has brought a shower of All-America 
awards and has stimulated new interest 
in this plant. Such hybrids eventually 
promise to replace all old-type petunia 
varieties. 


The bewildering array of petunias 
now listed in seed catalogs demands 
that we narrow the field so that gar¬ 
deners of this region can be assured of 
superior varieties thoroughly adapted 
to our conditions. It was for this reason 
that the Denver Botanic Gardens, in 


1960, undertook tests of petunia^ 
Only single flowered types were ii|| 
eluded. 11 


The trial grounds were laid out ill 
plots, each containing 50 plants of ft 
variety. In all, 132 such plots weif 
grown. Plants were allowed to develol 
naturally without pinching. After elim! 
nating duplications and mislabeling 
122 true-to-name varieties remained 
These were judged by employees (I 
the Botanic Gardens, by landscapl 
architects and by professional an| 
amateur flower growers. 

It soon became evident that 
evaluating a petunia variety, peop 
divide themselves into two groups 
One group is interested mainly in th 
appearance of the variety in mas 
plantings such as beds and borders - 
its general floral effect as a feature c 
a landscape. The other group is cor 
cerned chiefly with the excellence c 


104 


I ‘ individual flower at its best stage 
development and when viewed at 
>se range. 

For landscape effect a variety must 
>om freely over a long season. The 
inting should catch the eye, whether 
wed from a long distance or close 
I hand. The plants should be uniform 
1 size and growth habit. Their flowers 
jDuld be held well above the foliage 
liere they can be seen readily. 
>pether the flowers are large, small 
medium-size is not as important as 
; mass of color which the planting 
plays. Flowers must hold their color 
11 despite our bleaching sunlight. 
1 ie tinting on the outside of the 
I ells” must be pleasing so that when 
|; flowers droop in mid-day sun or 
I'ple in a breeze they still give a good 
[lor effect. Few people have time to 
| :k off aging flowers from a large 
j inting; therefore, the fading colors 
[ist not detract. New flowers should 

I vqt the withered ones—the plant 
3uld bury its dead. 

| To be properly appreciated an in- 
ijddual petunia flower must be ob- 
I! ved in great detail. Therefore, peo- 
| interested in decorative flower 
|>es use them where close scrutiny is 


ssible, e.g. in cut flower arrange- 
mts or for planting in pots, patio 
| inters or in small groups beside a 
rden walk. Such varieties are judged 
|marily on the basis of the beauty of 
5 individual flower and the interest 
creates. The flowers should be large 
£ d the form should be decorative. 


Ruffled, scalloped or fringed margins 
are preferred. Colors should be rich 
and have definite sheen. If two or more 
colors are involved they should not 
clash and color shadings should be 
delicate. Interesting markings in the 
“throat” are desirable. Veins in con¬ 
trasting colors which emphasize the 
lacy patterns are much prized. Vari¬ 
eties having such decorative character¬ 
istics are often not very floriferous. 
Many decorative types are not at all 
suitable for mass planting to give a 
pleasing landscape effect. 

Plant breeders have produced such 
utter confusion in the genus Petunia, 
that attempts to classify modern garden 
varieties according to botanical rela¬ 
tionships are futile. Introduction of Fi 
hybrids in the trade has made old hor¬ 
ticultural groupings obsolete and no 
new classification has yet been adopted. 
To such old groupings as “Balcony” 
and “Bedding,” seed catalogs have 
now added Fi and F 2 Hybrid Grandi- 
floras, Fi Multifloras and even the 
illogical “Dwarf California Giants.” 

Grouping based on use has been ad¬ 
vocated and this system probably 
would be of most benefit to gardeners. 
My suggestion for such a grouping of 
single petunias would be: 

Dwarf Bedding: Plants 1 ft. or less 
high. For edging and for low bed 
plantings. 

Standard Bedding: Plants over 1 ft. 
high. For mass plantings in beds 
and borders. (Cont’d Next Page) 


CHARLIE DIETRICH'S 

LAKEWOOD SEED AND PET CO. 

No need to send away for your seeds; 
we have the BEST for your garden needs 


!j All Popular Fertilizers 

Garden Tools SCOTT'S Lawn Care Dealer 

)8525 West Colfax BE 3-4245 


I 

! 

j 


105 


Balcony: Viney types, for hanging 
baskets or for draping over walls 
or planter sides. Also usable in 
beds and borders. 

Decorative Flower Types not Suit¬ 
able for Bedding: All sizes and 
types of plants. For cut flowers, 
pot planting, etc. where flowers 
can be viewed at close range. Of 
course bedding varieties having 
decorative flowers can also be 
used for such purposes. 

These four groups can be subdivided 
according to flower size, shape, mar¬ 
gins, color, etc. as desired. 

In the 1960 trials there were indi¬ 
cations that certain varieties rated 
highly in other parts of the country are 
not equally desirable under our con¬ 
ditions. Colors of some varieties fade 
to unattractive shades under our in¬ 
tense sun. In general, petunia plants 
tend to be shorter in our region than 
at low elevations, presumably because 
of the high content of ultra-violet rays 
in our high-altitude sunlight. 

In this brief review of the 1960 trials 
it is not possible to discuss the merits 
and shortcomings of each of the 122 
varieties evaluated. Only the better 
ones of each group can be indicated. 

Bedding Varieties (Listed in order 
of desirability) 

Dwarf Bedding: 

White: Fringed Snowstorm, Pop¬ 
corn, White Perfection, Lace Veil, 
Aristocrat 

Red: Toreador, Fire Dance 

Pink: Pink Desire, Maytime, Chero¬ 
kee, Coral Satin, Prima Donna 
Improved 

Purple and Bluish: Blue Mantle, 
Elk’s Pride, Blue Magic, Mercury 

Variegated: Sabre Dance, Twinkles 

Standard Bedding: 

White: Seafoam, Snowdrift and 
Paleface (equal), Breck’s Giant 
White, Snowstorm 

Red: Comanche Improved, Inca, 
Sioux, Aztec 

106 


Velvety Red: Matador, Flami 
Velvet 

Pink: Pink Velvet, Pink Sensaticj 
Peach Satin, Fairyland 
Purple and Bluish: Purple Watei 
Bluebonnet, Royal Blue 
Velvety Purple: Black Knight, A 
miral, Neptune 
Yellow: Yellow Gleam 
Variegated: Calypso, Cavali 
Starkist, Howard’s Star Improvi 
Elk’s Star 


CALYPSO 


Balcony: Blue Wonder, Rose Wond? 
White Wonder 

Decorative Flowers not Outstandii 
for Bedding: (Listed alphabetic 
ly) Apple Blossom, Blue La< 
Camilla, Copper Red, Crusadi 
Elk’s Purple, Fire Chief, La Paf 
ma, Lavender Lace, Mars, Mau 
Queen, Modesty, Rose Veil, Scar 
Lustre, Serenade, Tango, Theodo< 

It should be remembered that tl 
test has been conducted only one ye 
and that later trials may change the 
ratings. Of course new varieties w 
be added to the 1961 trials. In ai 
case the gardener will not go far wro; 
in planting the varieties which ha 
thus far proved to be superior. 


i 


When making your list of seeds to order for your vegetable garden, why 
||>t include Tragopogon porrifolius, Salsify (also called vegetable-oyster and 
ster plant) an old-time favorite now seldom obtainable in the markets. 

Salsify is a close relative of the yellow-headed Goats-beard, Tragopogon 
atensis, of our Colorado roadsides. The seed heads of this tall “weed”, 
nilar to those of the dandelion, should be familiar to everyone. 

The vegetable salsify, whose flowers are purple, is grown for its long 
ible tap-root. It is easy to grow. Simply sow the seeds in early spring and 
in the seedlings to 3 to 6 inches apart in the rows. 

The roots of this plant will grow best in loose, sandy or humusy soil, 
[hcause the plant is a biennial, no flowers will be produced the first year, but 
long narrow green leaves are attractive until frost. 

The roots should be allowed to remain in the soil until the ground is 
ibroughly frozen to develop the delicate oysterlike flavor when cooked. After 
ijgging, the roots should be scraped, thinly sliced and cooked in boiling salted 
liter until tender. Drain and add milk, butter and seasonings. Return to heat 
Bit do not let it boil after the addition of the milk. 

Many old gardeners will remember this tasty addition to the late-winter 
Ible. 


Preserve the Health and Beauty of Your Trees With Swingle Care 

SWINGLE 


TREE SURGEONS 


* 620 SOUTH DAHLIA 


DE 3-4417 


FR 7-8123 


107 


I 


Scoops (Sy jS cott 

(Formerly — “Composting”) 
Mrs. John Scott 


“Abstract” is a newer look in flower arranging. It also gives an excuse f<| 
this poem from an unknown author about a Japanese Print: 

“Simplicity I 

A curve for the shore 
A line for the sea 
A tint for the sky 
Where the sunrise will be. 

A stroke for a gull 
A sweep for the main 
A skill to do more 
With the will to refrain.” 

There’s a simplicity about spring symbolism, too, that flower arranger 
can use. Being the youth of the year, spring colors are light and gay, wiu 
greens and yellows abounding. There’s a minimum of plant materials, eva 
with buds and branches, which might be used to impart individuality or tn 
wonderment of life. With limited materials, line or line-mass design is desirablT 
Accessories or containers may be ceramic birds (always appropriate) an|l 
baby animals (with or without their mamas), small umbrellas, overboots, kite’; 
gardening gadgets, baskets, etc. 


Photo by Art Gon 


BASE,- DOOR MAT, PAINTED GREEN, AND HIGHLIGHTED WITH GOLD SPRAY. 

CONTAINERS, WOODEN SHOES PAINTED TULIP RED. 

PLANT MATERIALS, RED TULIPS AND RHUBARB FOLIAGE. 

MECHANICS INSIDE OF SHOES COATED WITH PARAFFIN TO WATERPROOF THEM. PINHOLDER 
CLAYED IN. 


108 


Special Spring Days include National Garden Week beginning April 22 
i! recognition of the birthday of J. Sterling Morton, the founder of Arbor Day. 
jjjitional Council is sponsoring another “day” this year known as “Wear a 
(trden Flower Week”, June 1-7. Mrs. Hath, National Council’s Executive 
ipretary says. “In the wearing of a fresh garden flower during this special 
\ ek we shall be creating sentiment for lasting and universal peace.” Corsage 
(ubs, this sounds made-to-wear for you. 


Carnations are a favored corsage flower, reminding me that Colorado 
jDwer Growers Assn., Inc. has this helpful hint concerning carnation arrange- 
i mts with fruits, apples in particular, which give off ethylene gas, putting carna- 
t ns to sleep in less than two hours. There are other fruits that give off this gas 
j d other flowers that can’t take it either. Exhaust fumes, faulty furnaces and 
! s stoves can also doom blooms. 


The Sixth Annual Sterling Bowl Tournament, co-sponsored by Jackson & 
] rkins Company and the Sterling Silversmiths Guild of America, will be held 
| ne 21 at Newark, N. Y. This is the only national flower arranging com- 
ijjtition. Fourteen contestants are chosen, two from each of seven geographical 
■pas, from names submitted by state presidents. Mrs. C. C. Buckbee sent for 
jnsideration: Mrs. Budd A. Willetts, Mrs. Vane E. Schierbaum and Mrs. 
dhn A. Scott. States in competition with Colorado in the Rocky Mountain 
iigion: Kansas, Nebraska, Montana, South Dakota, Utah, Wyoming. Mrs. 
Jiea Clapp from Cheyenne was a regional winner last year and in 1958, Mrs. 
lilliam T. Eccles represented Colorado. From these fourteen applications, 
o will receive an all-expense trip to Newark, plus silver lapel flower con- 
liners, rose bushes and a chance to compete for the $5,000 perpetual chal- 
l.ige trophy. May the best designer win! 


The Instantl y Soluble 
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The pioneer in foliar feeding; origina¬ 
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Phosphoric Acid 21%, Potash 17% 
plus trace elements and hormones. 


FAST! EASY! SURE! SAFE! 


109 


Designers will have an opportunity to start Flower Show School Course 
April 24-25-26 at 909 York St., Denver. Herbert Gundell will teach Hort 
culture and Flower Show Practice. Mrs. Bernice Lang will be the flower a 
ranging instructor. Let’s give this home-state couple a large attendance. Mr 
G. A. Seastone, 805 Mt. Ave., Fort Collins, and Mrs. Ethel Petrick, 3011 ij 
Franklin St., Englewood, will gladly give additional information. 

Information and education are the backbone of The Green Thumb and Mi:, 
Mary Louise Riede, of the Kibitzers Garden Club, offers some — CLU 
HELPS AVAILABLE FROM THE U. S. FOREST SERVICE: 

Films — Excellent color-sound Conservation films. (Address request to Visu;| 
Aids Section, Colo. State University, Fort Collins, Colo.) Highly recon* 
mended for club showings are: “Watershed Wildfire,” “The Forest; 
“Water for the West.” (Complete film list available on request.) 


Publications — New booklet “Operation Multiple Use — Program for t! 
National Forests,” and other Conservation publications, film list, an 
charts. Request for your club by note addressed to U. S. Forest Servio 
Denver Federal Center, Denver* 


“Smokey” Items — Smokey Posters, song sheets, easels, bookmarks, etc. (R< 
quest same as for “Publications.”) 

Assistance in Planning Conservation Projects, including Field Trips — Fq 
information contact: Mary Louise Riede. U. S. Forest Service, BE 3-361 * 
Ext. 8003. 

Forest Service Certificates for Memorial Forest Planting: Club contribution 
($5 toward planting of 250 trees) may be made through Fed. of Garde 
Clubs. For further information contact your Club President. 


County Home Demonstration clubs are another group complements 
gardeners. The Plum Creek Home Demonstration Club, Douglas County, hc| 
been going all out for gardening activities, even Floral Design, with three men 
bers, Mrs. Margaret Enax, Mrs. Marian Morgan and Mrs. Norma Lee Hunt* 
taking courses in flower arranging. National Home Demonstration Week i 
April 30-May 6. Fine time for a co-operative county flower show. Yes? 


Remember, you protect your own property when you protect the parks a 
streets in your town. Don’t BE A Litterbug — Keep America Beautiful. 


In addition to our usual line of ornamental plants suitable for this climate 
we will feature this year: 

GROUND COVERS: FOR SHADE AND SUN 
SEEDLINGS AND NATURALLY DWARFED PLANTS FOR BONSAI USE 
NATIVE SHRUBS FOR DIFFICULT PLACES 
SHRUBS SUITABLE FOR SHAPING INTO — 

ESPALIER, LOW-SPREADING, TALL-SLIM, PICTURESQUE TYPES. 

COTTONWOOD GARDEN SHOP 

GEORGE AND SUE KELLY 

4849 SO. SANTA FE DRIVE PYramid 4-0430 LITTLETON, COLORADO 


no 


THE LAWN BOOK 

Robert W. Schery 

Published by The Macmillan Company, New York. $5.95 

This book, written by the Director of The Lawn Institute of Marysville, 
'bio, Dr. R. W. Schery, is an authoritative guide to the homeowner concerning 
■topic that nearly all homeowners are wanting to know more about — lawns. 

I is the most recent work of its type on the market (released March 27, 1961) 
d is up-to-date in every aspect of lawn preparation and care. The book is 
signed for use in every part of the United States, dealing with lawns of arid 
d semi-arid localities and lawns of the non-irrigated, moist areas of the U. S. 

Unique, in this book, is a chapter entitled “A Turfgrass Logbook”, which 
scribes the month by month changes that take place in a lawn. 

In addition to details in the preparation of a new lawn, Dr. Schery describes 
e problems that arise in an established lawn and lists recommended control 
easures or corrective measures such as chemical weed killers including types 
id their effectiveness on various weed species, fungus control and lawn insect 
ntrol. 

Included are 16 pages of photographs and line drawings of 13 different, 
isirable lawn grasses and 49 weeds that invade lawns. JRF 


FLOWER CHRONICLES 

By Buckner Hollingsworth, published by the Rutgers University Press, 
)58, gives the authentic history of many “old” flowers, such as Rose, Iris, 
alip, Peony, Lily, Poppy, Marigold (meaning Calendula), Daisy, Primrose, 
ahlia, and some others. Mrs. Hollingsworth has done a great deal of historical 
search on them. 


This is an interesting book to read (300 pages), and a pleasant one to 
af through, looking at the quaint old pictures showing ancient flowers as far 
tck as the Bronze Age in Crete, more than four thousand years ago. 

If you are interested in old poetry, here is one in Middle English about 
arigold: 

“Wt good reed wyn yat be stale, 

Alle maner veny will it abate 
In manys body early and late.” 


So, if you are anxious to find out about the very flowers you are growing 
your garden, sit down with this “Flower Chronicles” some evening and have 
good time doing it. 


i l i 


MWP 


WHAT ABOUT LAWN RENOVATION? 


The term “lawn renovation” has come to be used by many as mearjtj 
only the removal of accumulated grass clippings (thatch). Such removal i 
been a subject of much controversy among turf-grass experts. 

Should I remove the clippings? The answer to this question could be eit; 
“yes” or “no” depending on circumstances and your particular lawn. First i 
you have a very thick carpet of grass, clippings may build up (in a perioo 
a year or more) which may hinder the growth of the lawn in the following waj 

1. Heavy accumulations of clippings may cause nitrogen deficiencies!! 
a result of the use of nitrogen by the bacteria which break down | 
thatch. This will occur to some extent in the layer of thatch thal 
in direct contact with the surface of the soil. 

I 

2. The decomposition of grass clippings and, for that matter any org$ 
material, results in the emanation of ammonia gases that, if in hil 
enough concentration, will cause yellowing of the living grass plan 
This may occur in heavily thatched lawns. The heavy “windrows”)! 
clippings left on top of the grass may cause yellowing of the gris 
beneath. This chlorosis, however, may be corrected with an applicatfl 
of iron. 

3. It is a proven fact that grass clippings that have dried in the sun o 
not absorb moisture to any appreciable extent and, when in thk 
layers, actually act as a water-repellent. Only after the thatch s 
been placed in intimate contact with the soil or decomposing orgaic 
matter, will the dried thatch begin to break down and hold moisti;. 
Layers of clippings, do, however, help to retain the moisture alreJi 
in the soil. 


Second, if you have a thick lawn, the clippings may be so numerous t t 
they harm the appearance of the lawn. You’ve undoubtedly seen lawns t t 
look more like freshly mowed hay fields. If this is the case, removal of clippii s 
may be desirable. (Heavy accumulation of grass clippings may be avoided !y 
more frequent mowing). 


If your lawn is not a thick carpet and does not have a heavy accumulate 
of thatch, “renovation” may not be necessary. Renovation, however, should : 
only be done to remove thatch but also to aerate the soil surface especially 
those lawns having fungus diseases. Several machines that will do both ope 
tions are now on the market to buy or rent. Some types actually slice the 5 
to Va to V 2 inches deep and, at the same time, bring the thatch to the surf; 
of the lawn. Others “scratch” the soil surface and rake the thatch. Po\ 
vacuums are also available to remove the loosened thatch and windrows 
clippings. 


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MEMBER 


SCHULHOFF ARBORIST SERVICE 

FRUIT, SHADE AND ORNAMENTAL TREES FOR SALE 

Specialists in Tree Care 

HArrison 4-6112 


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P.OWER,' EQUIPMENT SERVICE 


FR. 7-7919 


DENVER, COLORADO 
2829 EAST 3RD AVE. 

ONE BLOCK NORTH OF THE CHERRY CREEK SHOPPING CENTER 


DE. 3-3375 


SEDUM 'AUTUMN JOY' CAMPANULA 'WHITE STAR' 

To 30 inches in height. Flowers rose pink. Low and compact. Pure white flowers. 

COURTESY —JACKSON & PERKINS CO., Newark, New York 


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17050 Smith Road. Aurora. Colorado 

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2060 Tower Road 
Phone EMpire 6-3377 


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displayed in attractive surroundings. Courteous, ex 
perienced people are on hand to serve you. May we 
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WE 5-3528 


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DENVER BOTANIC GARDENS 
909 YORK STREET 

DENVER 6, COLORADO 


BLK RT 


U. S. POSTAGE 

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Permit No. 205 
Denver, Colorado 


DO NOT FOLD 

POSTMASTER: FORM 3547 REQUESTED 


PLAN TO ATTEND THE FIESTA AND PLANT AUCTION 


MAY 20 AND 21 


to A WEED-FREE ORGANIC SOIL CONDITIONER 
to AN ODOR-FREE NATURAL FERTILIZER 
to SUCCESSFUL-HEALTHFUL VEGETABLES 
to BRIGHT FLOWERS-VIGOROUS LAWNS 

$10.00 per Cu. Yd. 

(20 bushels) 


delivered anywhere 
in Denver and 
Suburban Areas 


$6.00 per Vi Cu. Yd. 
(10 bushels) 

Call YUkon 5-1504 


McCOY & JENSEN 

MORRISON, COLO. 


ike Gteen ikumtr 


Magazine for Rocky Mountain Gardeners 


THE 

IBITING 
OF 
OSES 
je 129 


S INKLER 
STEM 
: OR 

U LAWN 
je 133 


I'ND BULBS 
lie 137 


SOURI 
^NICAL 
N, II & I 

ie 144 


LIST OF ADVERTISERS 


PAGE 


Alameda Nursery, Inc. 152 

Barteldes Seed Co. 130 

Chambers, Lee — Tree Surgeon . 135 

Cottonwood Garden Shop . 120 

Creative Gardens . 146 

Denver Forestry and Landscape Co. 124 

First National Bank — Rose Show . 128 

Golden Home 'N Garden Center . 153 

Hammer, Lew, Inc.—Landscape Contractor 126 

Hydroponic Chemical Co.—Hyponex 

Plant Food . 123 


lliff Garden Nursery ..Inside Front Cover 

Keesen, Anthony & Sons—Landscaping .... 132 

Koogle, T. C. & Sons—Sprinkler Systems.. 134 

Kroh Brothers Nurseries . 123 

Lakewood Seed and Pet Co. 138 

Lawn Management Co. 147 

Long's Iris Garden .Outside Back Cover 

Manco Chemical Co.—Garden Spray 

Material . 127 


PAGE 


Marshall Nurseries . 146 

Marsolek's Garden and Flower Center .... 136 

McCoy and Jensen—Evergreens . 124 

Permagreen Plant Food . 145 

Ralston Valley Excavating Co. 142 


Ra . pid . gro Water Soluble Plant Food .. 141 
Robinette, L. F.—Tree and Shrub Service 124 


Rocky Mountain Seed Co.—Morgro Plant 

Food . 125 

Schulhoff Arborist Service . 143 

Scotty's Lawn Sprinkler Co. 133 

Simpson Seed Co. 142 

South Denver Evergreen Nursery . 130 

Spano, Tedo—Bedding Plants . 148 

Swingle Tree Surgeons .126, 151 

Tinn's Country Shop—Garden Clothes .... 

Inside Back Cover 

Tower Nursery . 140 

Van Wyk, John—Landscaping . 123 

Wilmore, W. W., Nurseries Inc. 154 


SK 6-5656 ILIFF 

Nl 

Over 80,000 Perennials — 4 

CONTAINER GROWN ITEMS 

• GROUND COVERS 

• ROCK GARDEN PLANTS 

• FLOWERING SHRUBS 

• HARDY VINES 

• ROSES 

GARDEN «so E .u FF 

JRSERY 

00 Varieties — Everything from A to Z 

LARGE SHADE TREES 

• OAKS 

• MAPLES 

• SYCAMORES 

• LINDEN 

• MANY OTHERS 

Evergreens - 
House Plants 

Annuals and Bedding Plants 
- One of the Best Selections in This Area! 

, Fertilizer, Potting Soil, Peat, Insecticides 

WHOLESALE AND RETAIL 

i 

SK 6-5656 

LIFF GARDEI 

NURSERY 

i 

4750 E. ILIFF 


MAY 
Vol. 18 
No. 4 

EDITORIAL 

COMMITTEE 

M. Walter Pesman, 
Chairman 

Julia Andrews 

irs. Alexander Barbour 

Mrs. William Crisp 

Dr. A. C. Hildreth 

Fred R. Johnson 

Mrs. J. V. Petersen 

Mrs. John Scott 

Dr. Moras Shubert 

rs. James P. Steele, Jr. 

Mrs. Edmund Wallace 

r. Helen Marsh Zeiner 

Patrick Gallavan 

Mr. Everett Long 

Mrs. Everett Long 

Dr. James R. Feucht, 
Editor 


"The Cftaen “fh umb 

To conduct research on plants, both native and exotic, in 
varied plant zones of our region, to evaluate their economic, 
medicinal and horticultural potentials. 

To coordinate the knowledge and experience of botanists, 
horticulturists and gardeners. 

To educate the public in the best use of horticultural 
materials. 

To maintain a large collection of plant species and varieties 
for study and display. 


INDEX 

title rage 

Calendar of Events . 120 

Notes and Notices . 121 

Horticulture Association Assets Transferred, 

by Fred R. Johnson . 123 

Honoring Burton O. Longyear, by M. Walter Pesman .... 125 

Pete Ponders . 127 

The Exhibiting of Roses, by Clyde E. Learned . 129 

Sprinkler System for your Lawn, by Homer Fanning . 133 

Winners of the Competitive Flower Show, 

Compiled by Mrs. Jess Gibson . 135 

Holland Bulbs — For Springtime Beauty, 

by Associated Bulb Growers of Holland . 137 

Exotics of Colorado, by James R. Feucht . 142 

Missouri Botanical Garden, Parts II and III, 

by Fritz W. Went . 144 

Scoops by Scott, by Mrs. John Scott . 147 

The Colorado Garden and Competitive Flower Show .... 149 

A Timely Reminder, by National Arborist Association .... 152 

How to be Healthy Through Gardening, a Book Review 153 


Members 


SENT FREE TO ALL MEMBERS OF THE ORGANIZATION. 
REGULAR MEMBERSHIP, $5.00; PARTICIPATING, $10.00; 
SUPPORTING, $25.00; CONTRIBUTING, $50.00; SUSTAIN- 
ING, $100.00. 

Copyright 1961 

DENVER BOTANIC GARDENS, INC. 

A non-profit, privately financed Organization 

EA 2-9656 MA 3-1133, Ext. 428 

909 YORK ST. DENVER 6, COLORADO 


Every Saturday morning — 9:10 a.m. 
KLZ Radio. Various Gardening 
Topics by Herbert Gundell, Denver 
County Agent. 

Every Saturday Afternoon — 4:30 
p.m. KLZ-TV Channel 7. Gardening 
Program by Herbert Gundell. 

Every Tuesday Evening — 8:30 p.m. 
KRMA-TV Channel 6. Mile-high 
Gardening Program. George Kelly, 
host. 

At Botanic Gardens House, 909 York 

May 2—8:00 p.m. Tree Class, Mr. 
Seiji Horiuchi 

May 8—10:00 a.m. Judge’s Council 
4:00 p.m. Children’s Garden 

May 9—10:00 a.m. Herbarium Study 
Group 

2:00 a.m. Garden Club of Denver 
4:00 p.m. Citizens’ Park and Shade 
Tree Committee 

7:30 p.m. Evergreen Garden Club 

May 10—4:00 p.m. Children’s Gar¬ 
den 

May 11—2:00 p.m. Sow & Grow Gar¬ 
den Club 

7:30 p.m. Rose Society 

May 12—1:30 p.m.Colorado Welles¬ 
ley Club 

Luncheon. Dr. A. C. Hildreth, 
speaker 


15 


May 14—4:00 p.m. Childrens’ Garni 

May 15—4:00 p.m. Botanic Gard 
Board 

May 16—9:15 a.m. Sunburn & Blislrs 


8:00 p.m. Tress Class. Subject: T 
Leaves. Dr. A. C. Hildreth. 


:e 


May 17—9:30 a.m. Fun with Flows 
4:00 p.m. Childrens’ Garden 

May 18—10:00 a.m. “Around the 
Seasons” 


May 19—7:30 p.m. Landscape Co 
tractors 


May 20-21—All Day. Denver Bota c 
Gardens — Fiesta 


May 22—4:00 p.m. Childrens’ Garcn 

May 24—4:00 p.m. Childrens’ Gardn 

May 25—1:00 p.m. Div. A. Civic G- 
den Club — Luncheon 

May 29—4:00 p.m. Childrens’ Garcn 

May 31—4:00 p.m. Childrens’ Garcn 

June 1—7:45 p.m. Orchid Society 

June 2—7:30 p.m. Landscape Coi 
tractors 

June 5—9:30 a.m. Junior Committc 
4:00 p.m. Children’s Garden 

June 6—1:00 p.m. Mountain View 
Garden Club 

June 7—4:00 p.m. Childrens’ Garcn 
7:30 p.m. Botany Club 

June 8—7:30 p.m. Rose Society 


We St ocL . 

Over 30 Varieties of NATIVE SHRUBS 
50 Kinds of Plants for BONSAI Use or for Shearing 
300 Varieties of PERENNIALS for ROCK GARDEN or BORDER 

PLANT NOW 

COTTONWOOD GARDEN SHOP 

GEORGE AND SUE KELLY 

4849 SO. SANTA FE DRIVE PYramid 4-0430 LITTLETON, COLORADO 


120 


NOTES AND NOTICES 

1961 ROSE GUIDE—Rose producing nurseries report tiptop quality for 
961 rose bushes. To aid the home gardener in selecting the best kinds for 
firing planting the “1961 Guide for Buying Roses” is now available. 

The Guide rates 455 old and new roses including hybrid tea, floribunda, 
imber, grandiflora and miniature. The ratings are an average of reports from 
We than 5000 American Rose Society gardeners. A sliding scale is used with 
a ) the perfect rose score graduated to 5 “of questionable value.” Since the 
st Guide was published in 1950, 2 million copies have been distributed to 
Slip all gardeners select the best roses. 

Write to the American Rose Society, Columbus 14, Ohio, for a free copy. 

BOOKS AND BOOKLETS FOR SALE — The following books and 
poklets may be purchased in the office at the Denver Botanic Gardens House. 
1)9 York Street: 


round the Seasons by S. R. DeBoer. 

1 leet the Natives by M. Walter Pesman.spiral binding 

regular binding 

fountain Wild Flowers, a museum pictorial... 

Colorado Evergreens by Robert E. More. 

]|ow to Grow Good Gardens in the Sunshine States by George Kelly.... 
J spiral binding 

regular binding 

Jiga of a Forest Ranger by Len Shoemaker.. 

jow to Identify Plants by H. D. Harrington. 

the Secret of the Green Thumb by Henry and Rebecca Northen.. 

wig Key (Identification of trees and shrubs in winter) by William Harlow 
limit Key (Identification of plants by their fruit) by William Harlow.... 

hat Tree is This by the Denver City & County. 

mature Games by Nesbit. 


$ 1.00 

3.60 

3.00 

1.25 
2.50 

3.25 
3.00 
5.00 
3.00 
5.00 
0.60 
0.60 
0.25 
0.60 


BOTANIC GARDENS BOARD OF TRUSTEES ELECTION — A board 
eeting of Denver Botanic Gardens, Inc., was held March 20 at Botanic Gar- 
ms House. An election of members was held and the following officers were 
d -elected: Lawrence A. Long, president; Mrs. James J. Waring, first vice presi- 
;nt; Mrs. J. Churchill Owen and Dr. John R. Durrance, vice presidents; Mr. 
)hn C. Mitchell, treasurer; Dr. Moras L. Shubert, secretary and M. Walter 
psman, historian. 

The seven-member executive committee elected for the year is composed 
the president, the first vice president, the treasurer, who serve ex-officio, 
id four of the trustees. Trustees elected were: Mrs. Ed. H. Honnen, Mrs. 
ank McLister, Mrs. George Garrey and Dr. J. R. Durrance. 

Six trustees whose terms expired in 1961 were re-elected: Mrs. Alexander 
arbour, Mr. Everett Long, Dr. William Morgan, Mrs. Frank McLister, Mrs. 
J. H. Honnen and Mrs. J. Churchill Owen. 

ARTICLES OF LASTING INTEREST — In past issues of The Green 
humb are several articles of interest to today s gardener. Copies may be ob- 
ined from Mrs. Helen M. Vincent at Botanic Gardens House. Among 
ch articles are: Lilacs for Colorado by Milton J. Keegan. The Green Thumb, 
>1. 1 , number 7, December, 1944. Beautifully illustrated. Price—10 cents, 
owers and Gardens of the Central City Region. A well illustrated issue by 
'weral authors. The Green Thumb, vol. 3, number 4, July-August, 1946. 


Price—50 cents. Hawthorns by M. Walter Pesman. The Green Thumb, vo 
number 5. May, 1950. A descriptive article and completely illustrated. Pric 
10 cents. 


I 


IN APPRECIATION — The Trustees and Staff of the Denver Botai 
Gardens extend their sincere appreciation to Clyde E. Learned for unselfijl) 


relinquishing his time and effort to tend the Botanic Gardens booth at 
Colorado Garden Show for the entire 8-day period. 

Appreciation is also extended to those listed below who aided Mr. Lear; 
in the booth and as a result helped to obtain 109 new members of the Der e 
Botanic Gardens. 


Mesdames Pat Bowman, Leah Brown, Knobby Brown, Georgia Burrtt. 


s. 


Rose Christensen, Katharine Crisp, Lillian Doty, Margaret Easton, L 
Ewens, Gloria Falkenberg, Georgia Grey, Marylyn Holmes, Judy Honrn. 
Esther Jacobson, Elaine Jackson, Marguerite Jones, Gladys Kirk, Fran Mr 
rison, Vern Neil, Harracena Newman, Florence Parker, Bernice Petenn. 
Agnes Swennes, Marjorie Shepherd, Pat Smith, Agnes Sena, Pauline Ste.e, 
Winnie Stratford, Marcia Thompson, Marcia Thomas and Mary Washburn 


e. 


oming. 


S' ! 

^jooni 


FIESTA AND PLANT AUCTION 


The annual Plant Auction to be held in connection with the FIESTA at 
the Denver Botanic Garden on May 20th and 21st comes at an unusuly 
late date but, please, all gardeners hold on to your patience and your pise 
strings! A sampling survey of our nurserymen friends brings the cheering nivs 


that there will still be many fine items in their stocks available for them 
donate to the Auction. The outstanding bargains that characterize this e\ 
can still be had 


to 

nt 


From the Kelly’s Cottonwood Shop will come ground covers and heis, 


possibly vegetable seedlings. From Iliff Garden Nurseries, perennial and 
nual bedding plants. From the W. W. Wilmore Nurseries the usual gener. 
supply of balled evergreens and container shrubs. From Green Bowers, ba^ 
and paired evergreens and carefully packaged dormant shrubs. Alameda Nis- 
eries will donate container roses and small container evergreens. Bartebs 
Garden Center will contribute potted begonias, in addition to other ite s. 


Associated Landscape will bring shrubs, canned or bare root. Creative Gan 
will send a variety of material and Harry Swift of Western Evergreens, 
known for his collection of “natives,” will be represented. Other nurse 
will remember us as they have always done. All proceeds will go to the Den; 
Botanic Gardens. 


Clyde Learned, who for many years has had charge of the bedding plais. 
will be on hand with a good supply. These are sold direct to customer, ap rt 
from the Auction. May 20th is the ideal date to take them home and put thm 
in their permanent location. 

Your time at the Plant Auction will be well spent. Auctions are fun 
both your garden and your pocketbook will profit thereby . 

Charlotte A. Barbour. 


d 


122 


HORTICULTURE ASSOCIATION ASSETS TRANSFERRED 

( 

Fred R. Johnson 

On November 1, 1960, The Colorado Forestry and Florticulture Associa- 
j?n merged with the Denver Botanic Gardens and ceased to exist as a separate 
, itity. However, when organizations decide to dissolve many details have to 
S taken care of before the legal steps for dissolution of the corporation can 
! completed. For example, The Colorado Forestry and Horticulture Associa- 
on had obligated itself to issue a final number of The Green Thumb before 
n e Botanic Gardens would take over the responsibility for its publication. The 
1 lal publication of The Colorado Forestry and Horticulture Association (a 
unbilled November-December issue) appeared in December, 1960. The author 
i : this article takes this opportunity to record the fact that our good friend 
did patron, Mrs. Charlotte A. Barbour, took the tab for that issue. This is 
ljiblic acknowledgment of our appreciation for her generous gift. 

In closing the affairs of the old Association, bills had to be paid, accounts 
’ ceivable had to be collected and finally an audit was made so that trustees 
both organizations would be certain that all details had been handled cor- 
ctly and that there were no outstanding liabilities. This audit was made by 
ir. E. W. Anderson and his report is in the hands of Scott Wilmore, President 
the old Association. 


■ 

i 


Mr. Wilmore then authorized Treasurer Earl Sinnamon and Assistant 
reasurer Helen M. Vincent to transfer balances remaining in the various 
:counts to the Denver Botanic Gardens in accordance with the agreement 
ade at the time of the merger. These were as follows: 

Colorado Forestry and Horticulture Association Operating Fund..$ 726.10 


Helen Fowler Library Fund. 966.85 

Shelby Thomas Endowment Fund. 243.91 


Total.1,936.86 

i The Library Fund has additional assets, amounting to slightly less than 
400.00, in the form of books purchased by The Colorado Forestry and Horti- 
jilture Association for resale and these will be gradually turned into cash. The 
poks available are listed on page 121 of this issue. 

I’m sure that members of the old Association will be happy to learn that 
hen it ceased to exist it was completely solvent and that it brought to the 


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nply dissolve and water your house plants, gar- 
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id $1 (or 10-07, can, postpaid. Makes 60 gallons. 


DR0P0NIC CHEMICAL CO., Copley 71. Ohio, U S.A. 


SK 6-0789 

JOHN VAN WYK 

LANDSCAPING 

New Lawns • Planting • Fertilizing 
Roto Tilling 

2101 South Adams Denver 10, Colo. 


KROH BROS. NURSERIES 

Preferred Nursery Stock for the 
Rocky Mountain and Plains Regions 

ONE MILE NORTH OF LOVELAND HIGHWAY 287 

P. O. Box 536 Loveland, Colorado 

Drop Card for Our Current Catalog 


Botanic Gardens, not only the substantial funds shown above, but other wo 
while assets. First of all is the Helen Fowler Memorial Library, one of 
most complete in this region on gardening, horticulture, landscaping, parks 
conservation subjects. Its value is conservatively placed at $10,000.00 N 
is the Kathryn Kalmbach Herbarium containing about 2,000 specimens, alms 
invaluable to botanical students. In addition, many items of office furnitri 


h 

i 


and equipment were transferred to the Botanic Gardens. The approximate Vc 
of this furniture and equipment is estimated at about $2,000.00. 


cl 


Colorado Forestry and Horticulture Association board member Henry 
Toll is preparing the legal paper for dissolving the corporation, and when 
is filed with the Secretary of State, at the State Capitol, there will be left 
the memories of projects carried on for a period of approximately sixteen 
by a group of devoted horticulturists, gardeners, landscapers and conservati 
ists. Tangible evidence of their work may be seen in the bound copies 
The Green Thumb, to be found in many libraries, and also in the library, I 
barium and other assets transferred to the Botanic Gardens. 


yt r 


The above is the final record of a project well done. 


]< 


L. F. ROBINETTE 

TREE AND SHRUB SERVICE 
3227 W. NINTH AVE. 

KE 4-0570 • DENVER 4, COLO. 

Licensed for 25 Years 


The Denver Forestry & Landscape 
Company 

Call us for your Tree Spraying, Trimming 
and Removal 

In Denver Since 1918 

7505 E. Harvard PLaza 5-036? 


EVERGREENS 


FOXTAIL PINE 


NATIVE COLORADO EVERGREENS 
GRAFTED JUNIPERS 
SPREADING JUNIPERS 
PINES 

WRITE OR TELEPHONE FOR 
1961 CATALOGUE 


MOUNTAIN PEAT FERTILIZERS 
"Make the Good Earth Better" 


Call YUkon 5-1504 

McCOY & JENSEN 

MORRISON, COLO. 


124 


i 


HONORING BURTON O. LONGYEAR 


M. Walter Pesman 

i 


3 FTEN toward sunset the Colorado 
landscape strikes us as being at its 
reatest glory. 

At the sunset of a full life, well lived, 
human being may loom up in true 
ature. 


I] 

1 Professor Longyear, as many of us 
jre in the habit of calling him, is one 
if these modest great figures who never 
jjeks the limelight, but who is known 
y his works and by his personality, 
o know him means to appreciate him. 

His “Trees and Shrubs of the Rocky 
lountain Region,” published in 1927, 
as a much-needed and carefully done 
aide to hundreds of nature lovers who 
bund it difficult to wade through the 
otanical jargon of non-illustrated 
joras. Its only competitor in “picture- 
otanics” was Clements and Clements’ 
ocky Mountain Flowers, which 
eked the clear description of each 


BURTON O. LONGYEAR 


lant. 

1 The pen-drawings in “Trees and 
Arubs” are beautiful proofs of Pro- 
rssor Longyear’s artistic ability and 

I s scrupulous attention to botanical 
itails. No careless observation or 

I ovenly illustration would ever pass 
s scrutiny. 

Another choice publication, “Rocky 
fountain Wild Flower Studies,” had 
itedated “Trees and Shrubs” by eight¬ 


een years. He called it a book of na¬ 
ture study and published it himself. 
No one, interested in the wonders of 
plant growth, could help but be in¬ 
trigued by the topics he chose, from 
the story of the cottonwood, the “plant 
thieves” (parasites) and the loco story, 
to the fascinating cooperation between 
yucca and the pronuba moth. 

The book shows how easy it is to 
make growing youth conscious of the 


MORGRO 

UNEXCELLED FOR ROSES IN THIS AREA f 

Morgro Has Them AIM 

Morgro is a complete, all-around lawn and garden fertilizer designed for gar- | 
deners who desire richer, greener turf and foliage than can be obtained from | 
standard fertilizers. All elements in Morgro are available with over 25% | 

available plant food. In addition to nitrogen, phosphate and potash in 6-10-4 = 
ratio, Morgro contains 5% iron sulfate and all the vital elements in water | 
soluble form. 

50-lb. Bag.__3.29 100-lb. Bag__6.50 | 

Write or call for our new 1061 catalog. 

The Rocky Mountain Seed Company 

1321 15th Street MAin 3-6223 Denver, Colorado | 


125 


“wonders of nature.” 

“A lovesome thing is the white birch 
tree.” So begins a little collection of 
Longyear’s poems, published in 1945. 
I am merely quoting it to show another 
side of his life with many interests, 
tiful and his friendly feeling toward 
nature! 

This aspect of his personality is close 
kin to his warm-hearted attitude to- 
How could he help breaking into poe¬ 
try at times, with his sense of the beau- 
ward his fellow-man. He took a per¬ 
sonal liking for his students and for 
his associates in many walks of life. 
That is one of the qualities needed in 
a good teacher, isn't it? 

Does that mean that he was “easy” 
on his students? Far from it. Being 
a hard worker and a careful student 
himself, he required first class work 
from his pupils. As a result he gen¬ 
erally did get excellent work from 
them. What is more, he managed to 
instill in them the scientific attitude 
and logical method of thinking. 

I shall never forget a typical exam- 


re 

le 

le 

l- 

a 


pie of both. In a field class we w 
asking him to identify a shrub on 
campus. No answer. Out came 
inevitable magnifying glass. He exc 
ined the leaf and fruit, looked fo 
shriveled-up piece of flower, made s *e 
the proper leaf-hairs were presen - 
and only then came the answer. Th e 
was no doubt left in his mind, and hid 
explain the process of determining le 
identity of the plant. Here was a vi¬ 
able exemplification of the scientic 
process and the careful observation!' 

As Professor of Botany and Fores 
at the Colorado A and M Colli 
(now Colorado State University) 
met the challenge of introducing its s 
dents to the intricacies of both. We 
became interested, and some enth 1 
astic about both. At one time he 1 
the Colorado State Forester and in 
dition to many other activities, est 
lished the first arboretum in Colora 


Some of us got to know him \ 
enough to see his exquisite work a 
lapidary. Here then is a man \Jo 
shows what a rich life is like. 


“For most persons the word lawn bears a vague meaning compounded of tfir 1 
recollection of grass-covered spaces dotted over with trees and shrubs, and)fi 
broad areas covered over with closely mown turf. Both are correct impressionj 
but the more important feature is that a lawn shall be an open area of gi;s 


space.” 


—Liberty Hyde Bailey. 

LEW HAMMER, INC. 


Landscape Contractor 


Tel. WE. 


5-59 


8 ; 

- 


Preserve the Health and Beauty of Your Trees With Swingle Care 

SWINGLE 

TREE SURGEONS 

620 SOUTH DAHLIA • DE 3-4417 • FR 7-8123 


I 

1 


^ar Pete, 

t| I love to clip plants and thought a 
sv formal hedge at the edge of a 
ised border would be “shear” de- 
Hht. What shall I use? 
ij Shear Fun 

| 


bar Shear Fun, 

The choice is limited. Lodense pri- 
t, which retains its leaves extremely 
te, is used most frequently. Don’t 
: afraid to cut back the plants vigor- 
isly when planting to get density at 
e base of the hedge. Insert any 3 to 
inch remaining cuttings between 
ants or beneath shrubs elsewhere for 
opagating additional plants; they root 
Eadily. 

Lavendar cotton, Santolina chamae- 
parissus, favored for its grey foliage, 
akes a beautiful hedge about 6 to 8 


inches tall. Charles Troutt has found 
many adaptations for it at Elitch Gar¬ 
dens. It sometimes winterkills, perhaps 
from drought. Cuttings taken in late 
August or September usually root. 

If you’re adventuresome you might 
try Germander ( Teucrium ). Its patent- 
leather foliage is choice. According to 
Bill Lucking it thrives when planted in 
average sun and in soil with good 
drainage. 

Dear Pete, 

We want Henry Clematis planted 
about six feet apart along a fence. Any 
special precautions? I’m no magician, 
but 

Can Do 

Dear Can Do, 

You don’t need magicianship. Cle¬ 
matis requires plenty of water, good 
drainage, and most essential — their 
feet in shade and heads in sun. Use 
peonies, geraniums, rocks — anything 
to keep the feet cool, except an epsom 
salt bath, to promote growth. Eastern¬ 
ers add lime to the soil. We don’t! 

Dear Petie: 

Our problem is a hot spot about 3 
feet wide on the south side of the 
house. Since it’s near our entry have 


3 - 

To Control Your MITEy Problem. 

! Use 

KILMITE — With Kelthane for Out-of-Doors 
DIAZINON —Aerosol for Inside on Window Sills 

R 


At Over 500 Stores in Greater Denver 


"WUVWCO" 


manco chemical co. 

O 

denver, Colorado 


you any suggestions for year-round at¬ 
tractiveness? 

Southern Charm 


Dear Southern Charm, 

Depending on the length of the a a 
one or more deeply eroded rocks cc - 
plemented with cactus, blue fescj, 
choice sedums, hardy hen and chit s 
plus a cover of crushed stone would e 
“charming”. Yucca is excellent r 
providing contrast in texture. Yjd 
might try a mosaic of the winter-hary 
varieties of hen and chicks ( Semmi 
vivum) or of stonecrop ( Sedum ) t t 
remain evergreen such as Sedum a e 
minor, S. sexangulare, S. reflexn 
chaemleon, S. album murale (du 
reddish brown) and S. spurium. 

If you simply want a ground cov ,: 
seedlings of our native oregon-gre; 
(Mahonia re pens ) and Kinnikinn c 
(Arctostaphylos Uva-ursi ) are efT*- 
tive. Some of the local nurseries hci 
both of these ground-covers availat. 


REMINDER — Don't miss the Fiesta and Plant Auction, May 20 and ^.j 
We welcome donations of “Antiques and Horribles.” Expensive items r\ 
income tax deductible. For information call Mrs. E. H. Honnen, PL 5-0401. 


You are invited to enjoy 

The DENVER ROSE SHOW 

in the lobby of The First 

Sunday June 25,1961 

Approximately 800 exhibits 

Sponsored by the Denver Rose Society 
Affiliated with The American Rose Society 


The First National Bank of Denver 


Member Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation 


128 


THE 


EXHIBITING 


ROSES 


Clyde E. Learned 


The object of a rose show is to en- 
)urage people to grow more and bet- 
r roses, to gain ideas from your com- 
etitors and to hear and learn about 
le newer creations. 


Before getting very far into the sub- 
ct, it would be well to point out that 
a special skill is required to grow 
^rst class roses, other than by follow- 
ig good and sound cultural practices, 
o produce fine exhibition flowers it 
necessary that you feed your well 
,tablished bushes with recommended 
bse fertilizers about once a month, 
he feeding with liquid organic fish 
aod or cow manure, between the reg- 
iar fertilizer feedings will materially 
: ssist in producing first class exhibi- 
;on blooms. One thing is certain, that 
ttention to the soil and careful prep- 
ration of the rose bed makes for bet- 
br roses and more of them. 


In many of the rose shows the nov- 
e or beginner often wins many of the 
3 veted ribbons and trophies. Should 
ou plan to enter roses in a show it 
ould be well to anticipate your entry 
vo or three weeks in advance. As- 
jming the bushes have been properly 
lanted, cultivated, fertilized and 
Grayed or dusted for insects and dis¬ 
use the most important detail is to 
'e that the bushes get plenty of water 
rior to the show. An adequate sup¬ 


ply of moisture results in larger blooms, 
adds substance to the petals and im¬ 
proves the color of both the blooms 
and foliage. To produce hybrid teas 
and grandifioras with large and full 
blooms it is necessary to pinch off the 
small side buds about two weeks prior 
to the show. If side buds are cut off as 
soon as they start to form, the remain¬ 
ing terminal bud will develop into a 
larger and finer flower. The careful 
and skillful use of a sharp safety razor 
blade is suggested for these disbudding 
operations. 

With sprays of floribundas, it is de¬ 
sirable to remove the center buds early 
so that the remaining buds will have a 
better opportunity to open and develop 
evenly. A spray of floribundas should 
be well balanced and attractively 
shaped with a number of full blown 
blossoms, a few half open blooms and 
several buds. 

To prevent discoloring of the blooms 
and foliage, discontinue spraying and 
dusting about a week prior to the 
show. . 

I have found that the greatest asset 
I have in exhibiting roses is in having 
plenty of refrigerator space for storage, 
which permits me to start cutting and 
storing roses about a week before the 
show. In storing roses, the refrigera¬ 
tor should be maintained at a temper- 


129 


ature of 36 to 38 degrees. 

I have found that it makes no ap¬ 
preciable difference as to whether the 
blooms are cut early in the morning or 
in the evening after the heat of the day 
has passed, providing the blooms are 
in good condition when cut and are 
plunged immediately up to their necks 
in cold water. Generally the blooms 
should be cut when a quarter to a 
third open, or when one or two petals 
have started to unfurl. To facilitate 
identification put a tag on each bloom 
when cut. Some difficulty will be ex¬ 
perienced in storing red roses for a 
week, as they often have a tendency 
after about three days in storage to 
darken or blue on the edges. Exper¬ 
ience is the best guide in the timing 
of the cutting and storage of the var¬ 
ious varieties of roses. However there 
is not much question, but that roses 
that have been chilled and hardened 
properly, stand up much better in a 
show than freshly cut roses. 

Many of our exhibitors, including 
the writer, use a bloom preservative 
such as “Petalife” or “Floralife” to 
lengthen the life of roses. 

The stems should be from 12 to 18 
inches in length, or in pleasing pro¬ 
portion to the size of the bloom. 

I have found that one gallon Pres¬ 
tone cans with the tops cut out make 
very satisfactory receptacles for the 
storage of roses in the refrigerator. 


Some of my friends use plastic b ;s 
for storage. 

Many methods are used in transpci 
ing roses to the show room. Some e 
individual pop bottles, some pails if 
cold water, and some heavy paperl 
plastic containers. In. my own cas<il 
use heavy cardboard boxes, like thee 
Christmas fruit is shipped in. Th e 
boxes are about 12 inches wide, $ 
inches long and 4 inches deep, 
to eight roses are laid the long wayli 
the box and the same number in ■ 
opposite direction. Crushed ice or I 
cubes are placed on the stems M 
foliage in the center to keep the rol 
cool. 

The stems should have at least th i! 
or more sets of leaves and all spi/J 
or foreign material should be removi j 
Perfect leaves add to the appearan, 
and improve the rating. The ste ;j 
should be straight and capable of si-I 
porting the rose in an upright positicJ 
Be sure there are no aphids or otfjl 
insects on the rose or leaves. 

At the time of judging the rc:j 
should be from one-half to three-qu;i-j 
ters open, with the petals being sy | 
metrical around the center. High cel 
tered blooms have an advantage ov| 
those that are not so fortunately e l 
dowed. The careful removal of a f( ! 
outside petals which have been to I 
or damaged is permissible, if well p< 1 
formed and will probably improve t I 


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130 


3pearance of the entry. Be sure the 
stal removal does not leave a stub 
id does not throw the bloom off bai¬ 
lee. 

If the bloom is too tight, blowing 
irectly into the center may assist in 
pening it up. Just prior to placing 
le bloom in the exhibition vase cut 
ff about a half inch of stem. 

In order to satisfactorily judge and 
ite roses it is necessary to have a 
andard measuring device. Without 
ime standard it would be possible for 
! judge to express his or her individual 
treference for perfection in such items 
h size, form, length of stem or other 
j ature, in a manner out of proportion 
|) the other elements of the rose to be 
idged. 

To serve as a guide and avoid as 
tuch confusion as possible the Amer- 
an Rose Society has set up the fol¬ 
ding point system for the several 
ements on which it is believed a 
)se should be judged and rated. 


1. Form .25% 

2. Color .25% 

3. Substance .20% 

4. Stems & Foliage.20% 

5. Size .10% 


brief description of each of those 


TABLE ARRANGEMENT 


elements might be desirable. 

1. FORM 25%. Defined as the 
shape or external appearance. The 
beauty and attractiveness of a rose 
begins with its form. A rose may be 
as large as a peony, but if it lacks 
symmetry or is out of proportion to 
stem and foliage it is not considered 
a high scoring rose. 

The American Rose Society recog¬ 
nizes five distinct types of bud form: 

(a) the slender or tapering bud as 
Eclipse or First Love. 

(b) the pointed bud as Charlotte 
Armstrong or Sutter’s Gold. 

(c) the ovoid bud as Peace or The 
Doctor. 

(d) the globular or cup-shaped bud 
as Radiance. 

(e) the urn-shaped bud as Crimson 
Glory or Talisman. 

2. COLOR 25%. Is the rose dull 
or bright with no blemishes on the 
individual petals? The color of some 
varieties often varies with the soil, 
fertilizing or weather conditions. Pure 
red roses should be free of a bluish 
tinge. 

3. SUBSTANCE 20%. This term 
usually needs an explanation. Author¬ 
ities appear to agree that a rose with 


131 


good substance or body has firm, thick, 
tough petals that do not bruise easily 
and the rose has good keeping quali¬ 
ties. 

4. STEMS & FOLIAGE 20%. 
The stems should be in pleasing pro¬ 
portion to the size of the bloom, nor¬ 
mally from 12 to 18 inches in length 
and should be reasonably straight and 
of a size to satisfactorily support the 
bloom. 

5. SIZE 10%. Many amateurs 
judge roses by their size. However size 
seems to be the least important of the 
elements judged as the average rose 
which meets the above requirements 
and is in good condition will be rated 
the full 10 points. Should the judging 
be very close, it can normally be ex¬ 
pected that the larger bloom will re¬ 
ceive a slightly higher rating. 

GENERAL. Bear in mind that the 
roses are judged at the time the judge 
sees them, not how they previously 
looked, or how they will look later 
when they open up a little more. To 
have the rose in top condition at the 
time of judging is a question of TIM¬ 
ING based on experience. 

Be sure your roses are correctly 
named and entered in the right class, 
in accordance with the ROSE SHOW 
SCHEDULE. 

Although the ROSE SHOW 
SCHEDULE is drawn up to meet 
local conditions it conforms more or 
less to the following pattern: 

(a) About fifty or more “SPECIAL 
CLASSES” of both single specimens 
and Groups of Three of the most pop¬ 
ular Hybrid Teas, Floribundas, Grand- 


ifloras and Climbers. 

(b) About fifty “COLOR CLAi- 
ES” of both single specimens : d 
Groups of three blooms of Hyt d 
Teas or blooms or sprays of Fiji- 
bundas and Grandifloras. 


(c) About fifteen to twenty class 
of “ARRANGEMENTS”. Althoih 
the older rose schedules included sith 
classes as an Arrangement for a C:- 
fee Table, Buffet or Mantle the m e 
recent schedules have got a little m e 
advanced, elegant and refined and 
ually follow a MAIN THEME wh 
the result we have CLASSES such;s 
“GREEN SENTINELS,” an arranl 
ment using pine or spruce with ro<;, 
or “GOLD RUSH DAYS” an arranj:* 
ment in which yellow roses predorrtj 
ate. 


The exhibiting of roses is a gc,i 
clean sport, and win or lose you vi 
meet many fine and friendly folks. J t 
keep in mind that most judges h; e 
been, or still are outstanding exhibit s 
who have had special training in ; 
judging of roses. You will also c- 
cover that some judges are high se ¬ 
ers, while others are more conservati. 
The more experienced the judges, £ 
better the results. 


Although you will never be able 
quite understand why certain of y< 
roses, which you thought were si 
winners did not receive a cup or 
least a blue ribbon, you, on the otlr 
hand will be surprised every once in 
while to find a blue ribbon tagged l 
a bloom that you did not think vs 
outstanding, but which suddenly opt¬ 
ed up into a beautiful creation. 


nnTHonv 

P KEESEII & sons 

4201 East lliff 

SK 6-4040 

ands capinq and (Contracting 

SP 7-7873 

Hi-Pressure Spraying and Tree Trimming 


Aerating Lawns 

AUTOMATIC UNDERGROUND SPRINKLING SYSTEMS 


132 


SPRINKLER 
; SYSTEM 

j FOR 
YOUR LAWN 

1 Homer Fanning 

When a traveler arrives in Denver 
ter driving through the hot dusty 
wns of the plains to the east, he is 
imediately struck by the green and 
ssh appearance of our lawns and 
irks. This lovely feature of our city 
not a product of nature alone, but 
the result of constant care. This care 
eludes irrigation, which brings us to 
e subject for discussion, namely, 
.awn Sprinkling.” 

Lawn sprinkler systems can be 
ughly classified into three types: 

(1) Manual 

(2) Semi-automatic 

(3) Fully automatic. 

Manual is the type commonly found 
use on home lawns in Denver. This 
pe ordinarily consists of a sill cock 
t the house underpinning, front and 
ck, with a hose attached to each of 

2 sill cocks supplying water to some 
riety of sprinkler. The method of op- 

ijjation is not uniform from home to 
|me, but may run something like this: 


The husband comes home about 5:30 
p.m., straightens out the hoses and 
starts the sprinkling operation. He at¬ 
tempts to read the evening paper be¬ 
tween sprinkler moves. He becomes 
engrossed in an article and allows the 
sprinkler to stay in the same place for 
30 minutes. Suddenly he realizes that 
he has to run an errand and that very 
little time is left for watering. There¬ 
fore, each of the remaining sprinkler 
settings is given one or two minutes 
operating time. 

The above exaggeration seems only 
to emphasize the inefficiency inherent 
in this type system which, even with 
the best of operators, is lavish in ex¬ 
penditure of labor and water. 

The semi-automatic type is a system 
comprised of banks of sprinkler heads 
that are supplied with water by open¬ 
ing manually operated valves. The pipe 
to the sprinkler is usually underground 
but may be attached to faucets or 
other structures above ground. 


Goodyear Rubber Pipe — Fully Guaranteed. 

Plastic Pipe • General Automatic Valves. 

Monaco and Buckner Automatic Controllers. 


J cyCawn 

SALES • 


SERVICE 


M. K. "Scotty" 
Burdick, Owner 


Free Estimates 
Quality Workmanship 


GE 3-5123 


FORMERLY WITH HILLTOP SPRINKLER CO. 


4556 Bryant St. 
Denver 21, Colo. 


133 


The fully automatic type is similar 
to the above described semi-automatic 
system except that the control valves 
are open and closed by some form 
of a timing device, such as an electric 
clock, and when in good working order 
does not require any labor to operate. 

Let us now discuss briefly the re¬ 
lative merits of the three types of 
water systems. 

The first, the manual, while expen¬ 
sive in labor and water has a very low 
initial cost; $25.00 to $50.00 worth of 
hose and sprinkler heads and the sys¬ 
tem is ready for operation. Also, a few 
dollars per year is all that is required 
for maintenance. 

The second, the semi-automatic, 
while it requires little labor to operate 
does have the fallibility of the human 
element in its operation. For instance, 
a housewife has turned on a bank of 
sprinklers, she receives a telephone 
call, becomes engrossed in conversa¬ 
tion with her friend, fails to notice the 
lapse of time, and the bank of sprink¬ 
lers that should have operated only 
10 minutes operates for an hour. The 
initial cost of a system of this type 
may vary from $500.00 to $2500.00 
per acre. Some care and maintenance 
is required for the system’s upkeep, 
but is not too expensive. 

The third type, the fully automatic, 
is, when properly timed, conserving of 
water and needs no labor for opera¬ 


You Do It ... or Let Us Do It . . . 


tion. The system can have, and j- 
quently does have, a much higjr 
maintenance cost due to the fact 4t 
a skilled mechanic is required to repjir 
an electric timer. The initial outlays 
this installation is higher than 
other type of water system and n.$ 
vary from $1500.00 to $4000.00 j;< 
acre. 

One reason for the high initial d;t 
of the semi-automatic and fully aul 
matic systems is that their installatn 
is a much larger job than just a do> 
yourself project. Therefore the b 
should be handled by a person whc s 
experienced and qualified in design g 
and installing sprinkler systems. 

Let us now turn our attention to e 
application of water. 

The amount of water needed ) 
maintain a lawn depends on the sJ 
slope, temperature, humidity, pll 
growth, etc. The amount to be appl i 
artificially also varies with the rainf. J 
Thus, no hard and fast rule can \<i 
used to predict the amount of war 
that will be needed. However, in t 
design of the water systems of u 
Denver City Parks a basis of 20 inch 
of precipitation or 500,000 to 550,QM 
gallons per acre per season was usJ 
This amounts to 12 to 13 gallons fij 
square foot per season. Recent invee- 
gation has revealed that 12 to 13 g| 
Ions per square foot is not suffick:1 
and that 15 gallons is a more corn 


Put in a GATES Underground 

SPRINKLER SYSTEM 

Free Estimate 

Find Out How Little It Costs. No Obligation. 

CALL 

KOOGLE, T. C. & SON 

AC 2-0527 or HA 9-3453 After 5 


3563 Larimer St. 


jiount. 

^Neither the rate of application of 
iter nor the time intervals between 

■ plications seem to influence, to a 
ticeable extent, the power of water 
induce growth. However, the rate 
C| application should not be so rapid 
'at it causes runoff. The time interval 


between applications should be of such 
length as to allow the soil to become 
dry. It is the amount of water applied 
rather than the method of application 
that counts. In hot dry weather 2 to 
7 applications per week will maintain 
a healthy, beautiful lawn. 


i WINNERS OF THE COMPETITIVE FLOWER SHOW 

Held in conjunction 
with the 1961 Colorado Garden Show 

COMPILED BY MRS. JESS GIBSON 


SECTION I —CLASS 1 

iche, A Line Arrangement of Spring Branches 
1 in an Oriental Container 

NDAY, MARCH 26 

;t Prize—Mrs. B. A. Willetts, Denver, 5564 E. 
Jefferson Ave. 

!!ond Prize—Mrs. Holland Payne, Niwot, Colo- 
i rado 

rd Prize—Mrs. Stewart Shehee, 6443 S. Down¬ 
ing St., Littleton 

ESDAY, MARCH 28 

it Prize—Mrs. Ray Carney, 6045 S. Bannock 
St., Littleton 

ond Prize—Mrs. T. L. Lewis, 5808 Teller St., 
Arvada 

rd Prize—Mrs. George Kelly, 4849 S. Santa 
Fe Dr., Littleton 

’jURSDAY, MARCH 30 

lit Prize—Mrs. Glenn Clayton, 4040 S. Wash- 
p| ington St., Englewood 

l;ond Prize—Mrs. Gerard A. Belanger, 1622 S. 

' Glencoe St., Denver 

ilrd Prize—Mrs. Vane Schierbaum, 890 W. 70th 
| PI., Denver 

i rURDAY, APRIL 1 

it Prize—Mrs. C. Walter Allen, 644 Monaco 
Parkway, Denver 

ond Prize—Mrs. Paul Warren, 3160 6th St., 
Boulder 

rd Prize—Mrs. J. Russell Easton, 3643 Jasmine 
St., Denver 

SECTION I —CLASS 2 
’edestal — A Mass Arrangement Appropriate 
for Easter 

.NDAY, MARCH 26 

I t Prize—Mrs. Albert Petrick, 3011 S. Frank- 
I lin St., Englewood 

! ond Prize—Mrs. Bernice Lang, 7095 N. Broad- 
p i way, Denver 

1 rd Prize—Mrs. Clara Beuck, 2970 S. Sherman 
St., Englewood 


TUESDAY, MARCH 28 

First Prize—Herbert Gundell, 4032 W. Greenwood 
PI., Denver 

Second Prize—Mrs. L. J. Woodman, 3985 S. Penn¬ 
sylvania St., Englewood 

Third Prize—Mrs. E. H. Honnen, 4400 E. Quincy 
Ave, Englewood 

THURSDAY, MARCH 30 

First Prize—Mrs. George Kelly, 4849 S. Santa Fe 
Dr., Littleton 

Second Prize—Mrs. E. H. Honnen, 4400 E. Quincy 
Ave., Englewood 

Third Prize—Mrs. Jess Gibson, 133 N. Sherman 
Ave., Littleton 

SATURDAY, APRIL 1 

First Prize—Mrs. Stewart Shehee, 6443 S. Down¬ 
ing St., Littleton 

Second Prize—Mrs. Bernice Lang, 7095 N. Broad¬ 
way, Denver 

Third Prize—Mrs. John Scott, 4550 S. Galapago 
St., Englewood 

SECTION I —CLASS 3 

Cabinet, An Arrangement Complementing a 
Hung Picture or Painting 

SUNDAY, MARCH 26 

First Prize—Mrs. C. R. Jacobson, 10150 W. 35th, 
Wheatridge 

Second Prize—Mrs. E. F. Hennessy, 7807 Robin¬ 
son Way, Arvada 

Third Prize—Mrs. Jeanette George, 1750 Sunset 
Blvd., Boulder 

TUESDAY, MARCH 28 

First Prize—Mrs. Holland Payne, Niwot, Colorado 

Second Prize—Mrs. William T. Eccles, 617 S. Uni¬ 
versity Blvd., Denver 

Third Prize—Mrs. E. H. Honnen, 4400 E. Quincy 
Ave., Englewood 

THURSDAY, MARCH 30 

First Prize—Mrs. Jeanette George, 1750 Sunset 
Blvd., Boulder 


LEE CHAMBERS 

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omplete Care and Maintenance 
of 

Trees, Shrubs and Evergreens 


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TREE SURGEON 

DENVER 20, COLORADO 

Custom Spraying 
Fully Licensed and Insured 


MEMBER 


•W" 


Second Prize—Mrs. John Scott, 4550 S. Galapago 
St., Englewood 

Third Prize—Mrs. J. Churchill Owen, 565 Circle 
Dr., Denver 

SATURDAY, APRIL 1 

First Prize—Mrs. Jess Gibson, 133 N. Sherman 
Ave., Littleton 

Second Prize—Mrs. Paul Warren, 3160 6th St., 
Boulder 

Third Prize—Mrs. John Scott, 4550 S. Galapago 
St., Englewood 

SECTION I —CLASS 4 
Easter Tables 

First Prize—Mrs. Jess Gibson, 133 N. Sherman 
Ave., Littleton 

Second Prize—Mrs. D. E. Heilman, 482 W. Caley 
Ave., Littleton 

Third Prize—Mrs. Schuyler E. Grey, 1600 Holly, 
Denver 

SECTION II — CLASS 1 
Potted Plants 

First Prize—Mrs. E. H. Honnen, 4400 E. Quincy 
Ave., Englewood 

Second Prize—Mrs. Glenn Clayton, 4040 S. Wash¬ 
ington St., Englewood 

Third Prize—Mrs. Esther Holtz, 833 Lincoln PI., 
Boulder 


SECTION II —Class 2 
Dish Gardens 

First Prize—Mrs. Norma Lee Hunter, 279 Prairie, 
Littleton 

Second Prize—Mrs. Elmer L. Ausfahl, 2780 S. 
Clarkson St., Englewood 

Third Prize—Mrs. W. R. Glenn, 6147 Estes Ct., 
Arvada 


SECTION II —CLASS 3 
Garden Growings 

First Prize—Mrs. Winnie Stratford, 4085 S. Grant 
St., Englewood 

Second Prize—Mrs. Pauline Steele, 4935 Raleigh 
St., Denver 

Third Prize—Mrs. John W. Newman, 5152 New¬ 
ton St., Denver 

SECTION III —CLASS 1 
Doorways 

First Prize—East Jefferson Men's Garden Club 


SECTION III — CLASS 2 
Bird Baths 

First Prize—Golden Gardeners Garden Club 

Second Prize—Lakes O' Bow Mar Garden Cl t 
Littleton 

Third Prize—Evergreen Garden Club of Denv4 

SECTION IV — CLASS 1A 
Plaques — Single 

First Prize—Mrs. R. F. Maul, Jr., 5504 E. Jeff* 
son Ave., Denver 

Second Prize—Mrs. Alice Whitchurch, Glenwcl 
Springs 

Third Prize—Mrs. Felix C. Moody, 5524 Jeff- 
son Ave., Denver 

SECTION IV —CLASS IB 
Plaques in Pairs 

First Prize—Mrs. William T. Eccles, 617 S. U 
versity Blvd., Denver 

Second Prize—Mrs. Elmer Edison, 7645 W. ‘i 
Ave., Lakewood 

Third Prize—Mrs. Esther Holtz, 833 Lincoln 
Boulder 

SECTION IV —CLASS 2 

Arrangements of Artificial Plant Material 

First Prize—Mrs. Holland Payne, Niwot, Coloro 

Second Prize—Lee Ashley, 444 S. Jasmine, Den' 

Third Prize—Mrs. John Scott, 4550 S. Galapc- 
St., Englewood 

SECTION IV —CLASS 3 
Hanging Baskets 

First Prize—Mrs. Elmer Ausfahl, 2780 S. Cla 
son St., Englewood 

Second Prize—Lee Ashley, 440 S. Jasmine, Den' 

Third Prize—Mrs. L. J. Woodman, 3985 S. Per 
sylvania, Englewood 

Judges of the Competitive Flower Show were 

follows: 

Mrs. Joseph Esterman, Denver 
Mrs. Ray Littlejohn, Lakewood 
Mrs. Owen Goodspeed, Aurora 
Mrs. Ralph Lewin, Denver 
Mrs. William Eccles, Denver 
Mrs. L. J. Woodman, Englewood 
Mrs. Stewart Shehee, Littleton 


MARSOLEK'S GARDEN & FLOWER CENTER 

GRASS SEED—Scotts, Northrup King and Barteldes 

PACKAGED SEEDS—Northrup King, Mandeville King 

and Barteldes 

FERTILIZERS—Milorganite, Pax, Vigoro, Scotts, etc. 

GARDEN TOOLS—Rakes, Shovels, Forks, Hoes, 
Garden Hose, Sprinklers 


MARSOLEK'S Garden Department 

•606 E. Colfax • Open Evenings till 8:00 P.M. • FR 7-2764 

Across from East High • Open Sunday 9:00-5:00 


136 


1 


HOLLAND BULBS 


•Springtime 


ASSOCIATED BULB GROWERS OF HOLLAND 

How, When and Where to Plant 

Tulips • Hyacinths • Daffodils • Crocus 

For over 300 years the finest bulbs for spring beauty have come from the 
Netherlands. From generation to generation, families in the Dutch bulb industry 
lave passed down their secrets of growing, improving and creating new varieties 
mtil today the Tulip is one of the most popular of all flowers. 

There was more than fate in Holland’s destiny to become the world’s source 
;or flower bulbs. Mild winters and cool summers make it an ideal climate for 
| rowing bulbs; they develop a stronger root system, storing up more plant food 
jo produce bigger and more colorful blooms. In the loose sandy soil they grow 
arger and are easy to harvest in perfect condition. The canals allow complete 
ontrol of the water level in the soil. 


The flower buds are pre-formed inside the bulbs, awaiting only Nature’s 
ycle of seasons to push up through the ground and burst into bloom. 

Holland Bulbs Are Government Inspected 

In Holland, every bulb grown is under careful supervision and must be 
;overnment inspected before it is exported. The Netherlands high quality stand- 
rds must be maintained. Moreover, especially with Tulips (except the species) 
here are minimum size regulations so that no tulip bulb can be exported which 
s less than 4 in. around. 


137 


Easy to Plant, Easy to Grow 


Imported Holland bulbs require no special soil, and will flower beautifull 
even in a new home garden. 

The best way to prepare the ground for beds or borders is to take out th 
top 5 or 6 in. of soil, loosen the soil below, and level off. Set your bulbs ii 
place according to varieties and cover with the top soil which was removed, 
Where this is inconvenient, loosen the top soil to a depth of 6 in. or mor 
before digging the holes for the bulbs. 

After the blooming season has finished, the bulbs may be lifted and store< 
for replanting the next fall, or they can be left in the ground and plants o 
summer flowers set in between them. Do not remove the bulbs until the foliag 
has dried down. 

Minor Bulbs 


No garden can afford to be without the artistic touch of these charminj 
little flowers. To thousands of people, the coming of the Crocus is the sures 
sign of spring. 

First flowers of spring! How welcome they are, to awaken the garden fron 
its long winter sleep. While everybody loves Crocus, many more gardeners 
should become better acquainted with the delightful appeal of the Snowdrop 
Scilla, Chionodoxa, Grape Hyacinths, Blue Bells. 

The little white Snowdrops come even earlier than the Crocus and the blu* 
Scilla follow immediately, along with the Chionodoxa. In daffodil time come the 
Grape Hyacinths. 


All these minor bulbs should be planted in early fall where they can con 
tinue to flourish and bloom for years to come. They may be planted 3 to 4 inches 
deep, either in sun or a little shade, under trees or at the base of shrubbery 
They are beautiful in informal groupings, almost anywhere in the garden, par j 
ticularly along a walk or in the rock garden. 


Crocus are used in many ways, as a formal note in front of the border anc 
also in informal clumps, large or small. For a “carpet of color” in early spring 
scatter crocus bulbs on the lawn, especially under trees, using either mixed oi 
separate colors. Then cut through the sod with a trowel and plant the bulbs 
where they fall, about 3 in. deep. Do not mow the grass next spring till abou 


three or four weeks after flowering, to allow the foliage to die down so the bulb: 


can bloom again the next year. 


- , 

CHARLIE DIETRICH'S 

LAKEWOOD SEED AND PET CO. 

No need to send away for your seeds; 
we have the BEST for your garden needs 

• Scott's Turf Builder 

• Ortho Insecticides and Fungicides 

• Zephyr MICROMETERED Rose Dusters 

SCOTT'S Lawn Care Dealer 


8625 West Colfax 


All Popular Fertilizers 
Garden Tools 


BE 3-4245 


Daffodils 


One of the loveliest of all flowers for the garden, the Daffodil has won 
liversal favor in recent years with its many new and larger flowers, graceful 
rm, cheery colors. 

Among the first flowers on the scene in early spring, Daffodils are inter- 
ting in groups along a path or drive, in a border, in front of evergreens, under 
2 es. Daffodils bring to the early spring garden refreshing waves of golden 
flow and white blooms, many crowned with orange-red — also an abundance 
flowers to decorate the house. 

It is possible to have Daffodils in the garden from the time the crocus 
lish till early May. With such a wide range to admire, it is little wonder many 
ake Daffodils their garden hobby — there are the giant trumpets, medium 
owns, small ‘cups, jonquils, and others. 

Delightfully informal, Daffodils can be planted in clumps or in combin- 
ion with early tulips and hyacinths. Groups of blue grape hyacinths with 
affodils make a striking arrangement. 

A popular way to plant Daffodils is to scatter the bulbs on the ground and 
ant where they fall. Ideal locations are amidst shrubbery or in any area where 
e grass need not be cut until the foliage has dried down. These “naturalized” 
antings .will continue to bloom for many years. 

Daffodil bulbs should be planted early — as soon as you receive them. The 
ilbs should be planted 6 in. apart and 6 in. deep. If the garden is dry from 
:k of rain, water well so the soil is damp and root growth can begin immedi- 
ily. 

After the ground is frozen, it is well to cover your plantings the first 
nter with a mulch of leaves, hay or straw, removing it about a month before 
Doming time next spring. 

Hyacinths 

The stately Hyacinths occupy a place in the favor of gardeners which no 
'her flower can take. Their delightful fragrance, perfection of form and vivid 
1 lors are unsurpassed. 

Few flowers can give such lasting satisfaction or contribute so much to 
ijen a small garden. Hyacinths may . be planted close to the house in groups 
i three to five or more. Excellent for beds and borders, impressive in massed 

1 DUpS. 

Hyacinths also combine well in a mixed border, in front of daffodils and 

. 


139 


early tulips. They are admirably suited for symmetrical designs and specia 
patterns. In most regions, they bloom in April and early May. 

For the largest flowers and biggest spikes, top size bulbs should be planted 
For more general home garden use and larger areas, the less expensive bedding 
size is recommended. 

Hyacinths should be planted in October or November before the grounc 
freezes, about 6 in. apart and 6 in. deep. Where winter is severe it is advisable 
to cover the bed with leaves or other mulch, but not until after the ground isi 
frozen; remove the mulch in early spring. 

Apartment dwellers can also enjoy growing Hyacinths. Use top size bulbs, 
placing each bulb in a special Hyacinth glass. Fill with water up to but nol 
touching the base of the bulb. Keep in a cool dark closet for about two months. 
Check regularly and add water as needed. When the roots have filled the glass 
and the flower bud is out of the neck of the bulb (IV 2 in. high), bring into 
partial light. After ten days, place in a bright and sunny window. 


Tulips 

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1 enjoy them for almost two months. No other flowers can bring such a wide 
array of gorgeous hues — a rainbow of color, at a time when color is most 
welcome. 

Equally at home in small groups of only six or 12 up to expansive displays 
of hundreds of blooms, Tulips are unrivaled for setting the home grounds ablaze 
with color. 

At their best in beds and borders, Tulips like a place in the sun and put 
on the best show in a fertile, loamy, well drained soil. Beautiful pictures can 
be created with groups of six to 12 or more at a garden gate, doorstep, around 
i a bench or terrace. Groups of Tulips work wonders with their showy colors 
in the mixed flower border or in front of evergreens or shrubbery. 

If Tulips were grown in the same bed last spring, use fresh top soil if 
possible. Place the bulbs 5 to 6 in. apart and plant them 5 to 6 in. deep. In 
severe climates, Tulip beds should be covered with leaves or other mulch after 
the ground is frozen, then removed in early spring to prevent damage from 
moles and mice. In the warmer climates, planting should be delayed till Thanks¬ 
giving or later. 

To plant in the perennial border or elsewhere inconvenient to remove the 
top soil, loosen it to a depth of 6 in. or more. Then make holes for the bulbs 
with a trowel. Before covering be sure the bulb rests on the bottom of the hole. 


If the bulbs are to be dug up after the blooming season for storing till 
planting time the next fall, they should be transferred to some other part of 
the garden till the foliage has dried. For the most beautiful display, only the 
largest of the old bulbs should be kept for replanting, and secure some new 
imported Holland bulbs each year. 


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EXOTICS OF COLORADO 

James R. Feucht 

In the April issue of The Green Thumb, Dr. Helen Marsh Zeiner present ! 
an article entitled, “Exotic Plants—What Are They?” in which she defin I 
exotics as “belonging by nature or origin to another part of the world.” Map 
of our cultivated plants, and in fact nearly all of the ornamental species thj 
we use in our landscapes, originated from some area of the world other th| 
Colorado. A very large proportion of the now “common” species of trees ail 
shrubs cultivated in the cities and towns of Colorado are not even native n 
the United States. 

In this, the second of a series of articles on Colorado exotics, we will di I 
cuss some of the conifers which are widely used in Colorado home landscapini] 
are well adapted to the climate but originated outside of the continental Uniti; l 
States. 

MUGHO PINE — Pinus mugo mughus (Scop.) Eastern Ai| 

Mugho Pine is a low, often prostrate shrub, the improved cultivars of whi< ) 
are usually very compact. It is used in foundation plantings among other eve t 
greens and low deciduous shrubs. Because it is easy to “keep down” it can 11 
used under relatively low windows. It is especially suited for use in an e; 1 
trance planting. 

For those who desire a formal look, this shrub lends itself to shearing 
the cutting is performed in mid-June. As with most of our exotics, the MuglJ 
is resistant to many diseases and to insect attack. The most serious proble: j 
with Mugho is the Pine Shoot Moth which destroys the terminal buds. It is n| j 
too serious, however, in well established plants because the insect damage wij 
stimulate more side-branching and thus produce a more compact shrub. 

AUSTRIAN PINE — Pinus nigra Arnold. Central and South Europ 

Austrian Pine has become a favorite tree in Colorado and is widely plantej i 
in our city parks. It attains a height of about 90 feet. Because of its resen 
blance to our native Ponderosa Pine, Pinus ponderosa, it is often mistaken fc 
the native. Usually, however, Austrian Pine is a much more compact tree an 
nearly always is a darker green in color. 

As with the Mugho Pine, the Austrian Pine is relatively resistant to dii 
eases and insect pests. It can be made more compact by “pinching” off th 
“candles” (new season’s growth) in June to about one-half their length. 

Because of its ultimate size, this tree should not be planted closer tha 
30 feet to a building, preferably on south and east exposures where the tre 
will get ample sunlight. 

PFITZER JUNIPER — Juniperus chinensis pfitzeriana Spaeth. China, Japa 

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142 


evergreen in Colorado. It is most commonly used in foundation plantings and 
Is one of the few evergreens cultivated in Colorado that thrives on the north 
ide of a building. 

The deep-green foliage and the graceful spreading habit provide orna¬ 
mental value in a landscape all year around. 

Despite its close proximity to the ground, this shrub is often destroyed 
|)y heavy snowfall due to the extremely brittle condition of the wood found 
3 n the narrow crotches of the branches. Brushing off heavy snows will avoid 
Jhis problem. 

Commercial nurseries carry several cultivars of this species having foliage 
hat varies from a brilliant green to a silvery cast. 


SAVIN JUNIPER — Juniperus sabina L. Mtns. of S.W. and C. Europe to Siberia 

Savin Juniper is often used in the place of Pfitzer Juniper, however, Savin 
s uniper has a more upright habit and cannot be used effectively under low 
vindows. It is best in open plantings and on terraces. 

I Generally, the Savin Juniper is much lighter or paler green in color when 
ompared with Pfitzer. Some cultivars of it are distinctly gray-green in color 
naking the shrub useful for providing contrast. 

More popular is its close relative from Southern Europe, Juniperus sabina 
amariscifolia Ait. This shrub is low-growing and of the creeping habit 
omewhat like the Creeping Juniper, Juniperus horizontalis Moench. of Canada 
ind Northern United States. The finely textured appearance and the graceful 
urves of the branch tips make this shrub popular for foundation plantings and 
or breaking up the monotony of the coarser-textured Pfitzer and Savin Junipers. 

INGLESEED JUNIPER — Juniperus squamata Lamb. Himalayas, W. & C. China 

The Singleseed Juniper is not as common in Colorado as those mentioned 
•reviously, at least not by the same name. Nurseries carry cultivars of this 
jpecies under various names. A cultivar of particular ornamental value is 
. squamata Meyeri. The foliage of the plant resembles our western native, 
•neseed Juniper, Juniperus monosperma (Engelm.) Sarg. and due to the simi- 
arity of common names, is often confused with the latter. In over-all appear- 
nce, the Singleseed Juniper has a very coarse texture in contrast with the 
ffitzer and others. The leaves are not closely appressed to the twigs as they 
re in Juniperus chinensis pfitzeriana and /. sabina but resemble the foliage of 
•ur native Common Juniper of the mountain area, Juniperus communis L. 
ingleseed Juniper, however, generally has a more whitish cast to the foliage, 
t is very valuable in landscaping to provide contrast of texture as well as 
f color. 

— 


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MISSOURI BOTANICAL GARDEN 

Fritz W. Went 

In the April 1961 issue of The Green Thumb, Dr. Went described the history and developrmll 
of the Missouri Botanical Gardens up to its current stage of growth. In the following article, I 
Went describes in detail, the Climatron, a unique structure and the only one of its kind in the wo I 
today, followed by a resume of their educational program. 

II. THE CLIMATRON 

The Climatron is a large geodesic dome-shaped, Plexiglas-covered greet] 
house erected at a cost of $700,000. It has a floor space of 23,000 square fee] 
with two separate air conditioning systems which can operate independently J 
each other, one predominantly during the day and the other predominant I 
during night. Instead of maintaining a constant temperature throughout til 
house, a temperature gradient is created by having the air enter at one si(| 
and removing it from the opposite side of the house. During the day thj 
results in a gradual heating of the air through absorption of radiation, where;] 
during night, the lower outside temperature results in the gradual cooling as tl; 
air moves through the house. 

Since the two air conditioning systems work at right angles, different conj 
binations of day and night temperatures are found in different parts of tl 1 
Climatron. A hot day-hot night area designated as Amazonia reproduces tl i 
steaming jungle climate; a warm day-cool night area simulates a dry tropic] 
climate, such as is encountered in parts of India; a third area with cool da^ 
and warm nights is typically oceanic and represents the Hawaiian area; where;: 
the fourth area has both cool day and cool night temperatures, simulating til 
climate of a mountain or mist forest. All of these different climates are preset 
in one undivided greenhouse which, for this reason, was given the nanj 
“Climatron”. Special features of the Climatron include: 

1. A large pond for the growing of Victoria regia, tropical water lilies an 


other water plants. A Plexiglas-enclosed walk underneath this pond 
makes it possible to look up against the underside of the Victoria regia 
leaves with their reinforcing structure, and to see water plants and fish 
all around you. 

2. A number of terraced rice fields in which rice and other plants of shallow 
ponds can be grown. 

3. A stream originating on a mountainside cascading down in a big waterfall 
and surrounded by lush tropical vegetation of tree ferns, aroids, ginger, 
etc. 

4. An area with tropical cultivated plants. 

5. A special lighting system which lights the entire dome at night and pro¬ 
duces a view that is spectacular, either from the inside, outside or from 
the air. A rotating fixture at the zenith is specially designed to simulate 
sunlight and moonlight as it revolves. 

6. Just inside the entrance there is a large instrument panel that indicates 
the operation of the different air conditioning systems, and which gives 
the visitor an idea of the complexity of the control system. It also indi¬ 
cates the temperatures in the various parts of the Climatron. 

7. A system of loudspeakers reproduces the sounds of some of the animals 
typical of the tropical jungle, such as birds, monkeys, frogs and insects. 

8. Much of our orchid collection is exhibited in the Climatron, partly by 
including flowering plants in such exhibits, and partly by growing these 
plants on man-made trees of steel pipe covered with osmuda fiber. These 
artificial trees offer a particularly good method of displaying epiphytes, 
so that they are easily visible from the walks. 

9. The 70-foot height of the Climatron makes it possible to produce big 

height differences within the Climatron, thus the mountain rises 20 feet 
above the lowest level of the Climatron. (Cont’d Next Page) 


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10. With the different climates, it is possible to use the Climatron for e 
perimental work. At present, for instance, a number of corn varied 
are growing in the four major climates, and show quite marked different 
in growth. 

HI. EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM 

As mentioned previously, we believe that public education is an importa' 
function of a botanical garden, hence the Garden offers a number of course! 
partially for adults, but primarily for children. In addition to guided tours if 
classes through Garden and greenhouses, we have Saturday classes for childrei 
in age groups 7 to 10 and 11 to 18. They come to the Garden every Saturdj) 
morning to either listen to talks by the teaching staff or to do practical work ! 
the greenhouses. During the summer the Pitzman Program offers special id 
struction in natural history to children between the ages of 8 and 16. Two da;! 
each week they learn about plants through observation under the guidance J 
competent teachers. We believe that such programs may lay the foundation 
for the development of future scientists, and even those who do not contini 
in science will have obtained an excellent insight into the life sciences, such & 
is difficult to give in a school. 

A special feature of the Missouri Botanical Garden is the shows whic 
are staged in the Floral Display House. Throughout the winter as well <; 
during the greater part of the rest of the year, there are floral displays of gre;: 
beauty which attract large numbers of visitors to the Garden. We also try t 
have educational exhibits in conjunction with these displays, so that everyor 
who has gone through the Garden will come away with a bit more knowledg 
as well as being richer from having witnessed a thing of beauty. 


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146 


—scoop 5 

Mrs. John Scott 

Along with flower arranging’s recognition as a spatial art comes atomic 
rdening. It seems that gamma rays and cosmic rays are doing things to seeds 
at would have kept Grandma awake nights. Gardening publications are 
mctuated with articles captioned “Blast Your Way Into Atomic Gardening”, 

The following are advantages cited by the “mutation makers”: ups seed 
rmination; plants grow more rapidly; produce more blooms earlier and larger 
"his latter could be a disadvantage with some varieties) plants stronger and 
ipre disease resistant. (It is claimed, for example, that zinnias have less 
|ldew and nasturtiums fewer pests.) 1 There’s much more but it’ll be more 
ti to learn first-hand. 


This recalls the gibberellic glee and spree some of us took. Gibrel is still 
the market, still too expensive and (to me) still of questionable value, ex¬ 
isting special deadlines such as flower shows, garden shows, family reunions 
■ extraordinary seasonal hazards. Gibrel may have a psychological effect on 
rp gardener that can’t be underestimated. It’s for sure such sprayed plants 
:,p going to get maximum attention, which could be worth the price. 

Money continues to be granted garden clubs by Sears-Roebuck. I’ve been 
jirning where this club or district or state has received varying allotments and 
ii 'ards. What are we taking advantage of in this area? 

Two area gladiolus shows have set their dates. According to Mr. and Mrs. 
Idney L. Baldridge, the shows will be held August 6 at the First National Bank, 
<*eeley and August 13 at the Denver U. S. National Bank, Denver. 

Glads are very versatile for floral designs. They can be used for spike 
: aterial filler (the bud tips can be carefully “uncovered” if more color is 
' inted) or a few full forms make a nice focal area. 

Of interest is the Special Census of Horticultural Specialties for 1959 


1 Radiation of seed does not always produce desirable effects, however, and the above 
4 lvantages” resulting from radiation of seed may be apparent in only a small percentage 
the total number of seed irradiated. Some irradiated seed may produce weak, grotesquely 
nted seedlings and many may not survive the seedling stage due to injuries from radiation 
] ulting in interference of certain life processes.—Ed. 


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(the ’60 report hasn’t reached me, yet) prepared by the U. S. Department < 
Commerce. Classified under Bulb Crops, glad corms topped the sales, but we 
down about 160 million from the ’49 report. Iris bulbs were in second pla< 
with a 22 million lead over iris rhizomes—ninth in line. In third place we 
narcissus bulbs; fourth, caladium tubers; fifth, tulip bulbs; sixth, Easter ( 
longiflorum bulbs; seventh, lilies other than Easter; eighth, dahlia; ninth (a 
ready counted) and tenth, peony. Of these, only caladium, iris bulbs and tl 
lilies show an increase during the ten-year period. 

Here’s a run-down on flower seeds in pounds from the same source: 
the top spot, sweet peas, 377,628 pounds; trailed by zinnias with 68,19 
pounds; followed by marigold, stock, petunia, snap dragon and aster. Colorac 
is petunia and snap dragon conscious due to Pan American’s horticultural an 
civic influence. 

The Aril Society, International, is one of the specialty iris groups affiliate 
with the AIS. Mrs. Marguerite De Muth, 19951 Oxnaid St., Woodland Hill 
Calif, will accept your membership. I know very little about Arils, so joine 
the ASI, hoping to smarten-up. 

Pity the poor plants which each year must be torn between the Plain Dii 
Gardeners and the Rabid Flower Arrangers. The grower Can’t bear to cut ’er 
and the arranger only enjoys arranging ’em. These two factions need to merg 
and become Gardener-Arrangers. The gardener would learn how to bring th 
outdoors in and the arranger how to grow the plant materials she needs an* 
can’t beg, borrow or buy. I’m biased, too, and think that to show ’em you’ 
better know how to grow ’em. 

BUT, there’s not enough YOU for both: Then: 

“Be like the bird, who 

Halting in his flight 

On limb too slight 

Feels it give way beneath him, 

Yet sings, 

Knowing he hath wings.” 

So said Victor Hugo on a long ago day. Think it applies today? 


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148 


THE COLORADO GARDEN AND 
COMPETITIVE FLOWER SHOW 


The second annual Colorado Gar- 
n Show was bigger and better than 
e 1960 show. This year the show 
is held for 8 days, March 26 through 
pril 2, twice as long as previously. 
Is a result of this longer duration 
),000 more people were able to enjoy 


is “preview of spring.” Those of you 
ho were unable to attend may be 
>le to picture what it was like as we 
ke a verbal and pictorial tour through 


e arena. 


After passing through the ticket gate 
j find on our right the Denver 
Dtanic Gardens booth enclosed on 
r o sides by a redwood planter con- 
ining pyracantha, staked pfitzers, 
toneaster and euonymus. Eager vol- 
iteers, members of the Botanic Gar- 
ns, are busy talking with prospective 
w members receiving their free is- 
es of The Green Thumb. 


Continuing our walk, we suddenly 
come aware of a sound reminiscent 
those we hear in our Rocky Moun- 
ins, the rush of water cascading over 


boulders. Turning the corner, we see 
a huge waterfall bordered by carna¬ 
tions, chrysanthemums, ferns, hydran¬ 
geas and azaleas. The water, flowing 
over the falls at 400 gallons per min¬ 
ute, passes under a rustic, arched 
bridge and into a reflecting lake filling 
a large portion of the center of the 
arena. 

Standing on the bridge viewing the 
entire array of the gardens in the arena 
we find on the left of the lake a gar¬ 
den court and deck. Plants in the court 
include petunias, primrose, chiono- 
doxa, scindapus, rock cotoneaster and 
skunkbush. Near the deck is a display 
of large and dwarf iris. To the right 
of the lake is a lawn edged with many 
varieties of tulips, narcissus, and trees 
and shrubs in full leaf. 

Beyond the bridge and on the right 
is a rock garden containing a great 
variety of dwarf plants, larger shrubs 
and low, compact evergreens. On up 
the walk is an overlook planted with 
red and pink geraniums, evergreens 


149 


THE WATERFALL, ARCHED BRIDGE AND A PART OF THE REFLECTING "LAKE". 


150 


id snapdragons, followed by a “lazy- 
an’s garden” designed for the indi¬ 
dual with little time for gardening but 
ith an appreciation for nature’s beau¬ 
ts. Adjacent to this is a beautiful dis- 
ay of roses bordered by spreading 
nipers. Continuing on, we see lilies 
! anted among Oregon-grape and 
licked with taller trees and shrubs, 
ere, protruding into the walk is a 
! ixagonally-shaped, glass-enclosed 

I ructure housing dozens of orchid 
irieties ranging from blossoms a frac- 
3n of an inch in size to those the size 
: one’s hand. Between the doors lead- 
g into the Garden Clinic area where 
ctures and movies are given nearly 
intinuously is a Fountain Parterre 
ith five fountains and pools. This dis¬ 
play utilizes many types of ground- 
iver plants such as Myrtle, Wiltoni 
jniper, Creeping Mahonia and others 
» well as several types of gravel 
'ound-covers. 

Adjacent to the lake on the south is 
large chapel in which an organist is 
laying soft music. Behind the chapel 
:e many bonsai specimens dwarfed 
y special techniques making them ap- 
2 ar to be large trees when viewed 
om a great distance. 

In the Exhibit Building are 63 ex¬ 
bits of products used in gardening— 
/erything from insecticides and weed 
llers to power lawn equipment and 
jatio awnings. Along one of the walls 
this area are the Competitive Flower 
how arrangements. (For a list of 
inners see page 135 of this issue.) 


The lavish garden displays and lux¬ 
urious color schemes will long be re¬ 
membered by those who attended and 
certainly the 1962 show will be eagerly 
anticipated. 

Garden Show Designer — Chris 
Moritz 

Manager — Lew Hammer 
Program Editor and Garden Clinic 
Chairman — Pat Gallavan 
Flower Show officials: General Chair¬ 
man — Mrs. George Kelly 
Schedule — Mrs. E. H. Honnen 
Entries — Mrs. Jess Gibson 
Staging — Mr. Lee J. Ashley 
Promotion — Mrs. John Scott 

Sponsors of Gardens and Major Con¬ 
struction in Main Arena: 

American Iris Society, Region 20— 
Iris display. 

Bonsai Club — Bonsai display 
Colorado Carnation Advertising and 
Publicity Committee — Waterfall 
Cottonwood Garden Shop — Rock 
garden 

Creative Gardens 

Denver Botanic Gardens, Inc. — 
Fountain Parterre 

Denver Rose Society — Rose dis- 
play 

Marshall Nurseries — Lazy-man s 
garden 

Men’s Garden Club of Colorado — 
Lily display 

Misc. Cut Flowers and Pot Plant 
Growers Committee — Waterfall 
Our Chapel of Memories — Chapel 
W. W. Wilmore Nurseries — Foun¬ 
tain Parterre 


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151 


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Fertilizer supplies the principal raw food elements that trees need to groi 
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effects of drought, insect and disease attack, and numerous other adversitie) 

Since trees grow most rapidly during the spring months, this is an exce; 
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a series of holes made by punch bar or drill, or applied by means of compressd 
air or hydraulic pressure. It is important that it be well distributed in the ro< 
zone, normally 12 to 20 inches below the soil surface. 

According to the National Arborist Association, the amount of fertilize 
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all shade trees periodically need fertilizer, it is wise to consult a compete^ 
arborist and arrange for applications to be made at regular intervals. 


FLOWER SHOW — The B J’s Garden Club of Aurora will present 
flower show with the general theme “Garden Musical” on June 20. Location 
of the show will be announced in the next issue of The Green Thumb. 


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152 


HOW TO BE HEALTHY THROUGH GARDENING 1 

For many weeks a Korean War veteran had been lying on his left side 
fusing to take any interest in what was going on around him. He probably 
mid not have aroused out of his depths of despondency had not an occupa- 
•nal therapist hit upon just the thing to strike a spark of renewed interest 
P life. She came in one morning with a glass tumbler filled with peat, and let 
n watch while she planted bean seeds in the peat and then watered it. She 
!: the glass where he could see it. During the next few days the miracle of 
led germination was revealed to him. He could see the tiny white roots 
owing against the glass, then he could see the green sprouts emerging. He 
gan to ask questions about how such a tiny thing as the seedling could have 
sough strength to lift the peat. When the therapist observed enough interest 
her patient she moved the glass to a table on the other side of the bed. Soon 
5 patient had turned to his right side so that he could continue to watch this 
trvel of plant growth. This gave him the inspiration that he needed to regain 
i. desire to recover. The wonderful thrill of caring for plants and seeing their 
autiful development has saved many lives, strengthened weak bodies, and 
ared sick minds. 

Professor Donald P. Watson and Mrs. Alice W. Burlingame have, in a 
>st interesting manner, used the theme suggested above in bringing to the 
ider the results of many years of research and experience in this field. The 
)grams they present are detailed enough so that each of us who understands 


1 From the book, Therapy Through Horticulture, by Donald P. Watson and Alice W. 
lingame. The Macmillan Company, New York. 1960. $4.95. 


Sales RENTALS Service 

DUPONT PAINTS — PLUMBING AND ELECTRICAL SUPPLIES 
HAND AND POWER TOOLS — HARDWARE 
INSECTICIDES, FUNGICIDES AND FERTILIZERS 
TORO LAWN EQUIPMENT — GARDEN TOOLS 
SEEDS, BEDDING PLANTS, SHRUBS AND TREES 
LAWNS —SPRINKLING SYSTEMS 

CR 9-2112 • 715 Vi 13th Street • HA 4-5337 

Golden, Colorado 


153 


gardening and loves to work with plants can make use of the information b) 
applying it to our own use, if not in helping others. Of course, the intentior 
is that we use our own knowledge of gardening, indoors or outdoors, to give 
those who are in desperate need of therapy the encouragement and assistance 
they need. 

In separate chapters the authors present programs for helping children 
senior citizens, the mentally ill, and special kinds of patients, such as the blind 
those with heart diseases, .tuberculosis patients and others. Steps for organ¬ 
izing programs, training volunteers, and preparing proper agreements wit! 
hospitals are given in a very clear and straightforward manner. An idea ol 
how complete the information is can be gained from telling that they even list 
the items we should include in a work basket to be taken along to help those 
confined to a hospital ward. 

Another chapter we will all welcome is the one on resources. Here yoi 
may obtain names and addresses of all kinds of suppliers of plant materials 
gardening aids, information and even training movies. 

This treasure of information, packed concisely into 129 pages (not count 
ing a most helpful index), includes 14 pages of “therapeutic evaluations.” Nov \ 
do not let the latter frighten you, as the information is given in non-technica 
terms which tell of the healing values (or possible dangers) of such things a: 
clipping grass, digging with a trowel, hoeing, pulling weeds, pushing a lawr 
mower, planting seeds and bulbs and other activities. 

M. L. S. 


"75 Years — Celebrating Our Diamond Jubilee 7 of Service" 


A visit to our garden shop is a rewarding experience 
for the gardening enthusiast. Here you'll find a com¬ 
plete line of garden tools, insecticides and plant 
foods and other gardening accessories ... all 
displayed in attractive surroundings. Courteous, ex¬ 
perienced people are on hand to serve you. May we 
see you soon? 

V 

W. W. WI LIVIORE ’ 

| t A/u/t 06 ^ti^O • 

* WEST 38TH AVENUE AND WADSWORTH A 
WHEATRIDGE • HA 4-5584 ^ 


154 


o 


o 


TINNS 


8545 West Colfax, Lakewood 
9724 East Colfax, Aurora 
Lakeside Shopping Center 

presents 

'tTasliions Cofo/T 

YOU SAW THEM AT THE 


/961 C^olorado Gjarden 


ow 


See Them Again at the 


TA - AUCTION 

ay 20 and 21 


otanic 


Jl 


ou6e 


909 York St. 


i 


3240 BROADWAY 
BOULDER, COLORADO 

CATALOGUE ON REQUEST 


dome dee our 
d^rid in bloom — 


jCaU W. 


ay. 

and early ^une 


X 


oncf 6 
arch 


* 76 e tyteea, 

DENVER BOTANIC GARDENS 
909 YORK STREET 

DENVER 6, COLORADO 


BLK RT 


U. S. POSTAGE 

PAID 

Permit No. 205 
Denver, Colorado 


DO NOT FOLD 

POSTMASTER: FORM 3547 REQUESTED 


'The Gieen iltumlt 

JUNE, 1961 25 CENTS 


Magazine for Rocky Mountain Gardeners 


ou are inui 


13th — 


enjoy. 


nnua 


t 


enver Rose Show 


IN THE LOBBY OF THE FIRST 


landau, ^une 25, /%/ 


1:30 to 5:30 p.m. 


Nearly 1,000 specimen blooms, sprays 
and arrangements. All American Rose selections for 
1962. 18 trophies plus American Rose Society 

Certificates to be awarded. 
Don't miss this beautiful show. 


Sponsored by The Denver Rose Society 
Affiliated with 
The American Rose Society 


Parking Facilities Available in our Garage 
Adjacent to the Bank. Entrance on 
Welton Street. 


I 


The First National Bank of Denver 


Member Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation 


JUNE 


Vol. 18 
No. 5 

EDITORIAL 

COMMITTEE 

M. Walter Pesman, 
Chairman 

Julia Andrews 

Mrs. Alexander Barbour 

Mrs. William Crisp 

Dr. A. C. Hildreth 

Fred R. Johnson 

Mrs. J. V. Petersen 

Mrs. John Scott 

Dr. Moras Shubert 

Mrs. James P. Steele, Jr. 

Mrs. Edmund Wallace 

Dr. Helen Marsh Zeiner 

Patrick Gallavan 

Mr. Everett Long 

Mrs. Everett Long 

Dr. James R. Feucht, 
Editor 


THE COVER 

hristian Dior, Hybrid Tea 
ose. A 1962 All-America 
election from the Conard- 
yle Co., West Grove, Penn- 
flvania. 


Members 


7 Tie (fteen "Th umlt 

To conduct research on plants, both native and ekotic, in 
varied plant zones of our region, to evaluate their economic, 
medicinal and horticultural potentials. 

To coordinate the knowledge and experience of botanists, 
horticulturists and gardeners. 

To educate the public in the best use of horticultural 
materials. 

To maintain a large collection of plant species and varieties 
for study and display. 


INDEX 

TITLE PAGE 

List of Advertisers . 160 

Calendar of Events . 161 

Notes and Notices . 162 

Pete Ponders . 165 

Good Grooming of Roses, Vella Hood Conrad . 167 

Making the Plains Liveable, Chris G. Moritz . 169 

Exotics of Colorado, Helen M. Zeiner . 173 

All-America Rose Selections . 175 

The Brooklyn Botanic Garden, George S. Avery .177 

Beauty by the Bankful, Dabney O. Collins . 181 

Scoops by Scott, Mrs. John Scott. 183 

Now is the time to Prune Early-Flowering Shrubs, 

Moras L. Shubert . 185 

The W. W. Wilmore Nurseries—Colorado's Oldest. 186 

Plant Profiles, George W. Kelly . 188 

The 1961 Denver Botanic Gardens Bulb Display . 189 


SENT FREE TO ALL MEMBERS OF THE ORGANIZATION. 
REGULAR MEMBERSHIP, $5.00; PARTICIPATING, $10.00; 
SUPPORTING, $25.00; CONTRIBUTING, $50.00; SUSTAIN¬ 
ING, $100.00. 

Copyright 1961 

DENVER BOTANIC GARDENS, INC. 

» 

A non-profit, privately financed Organization 

MA 3-1133, Ext. 428 
DENVER 6, COLORADO 


EA 2-9656 
909 YORK ST. 


LIST OF ADVERTISERS 


PAGE 


Alameda Nursery, Inc. Outside Back Cover 

Chambers, Lee — Tree Surgeon . 181 

Creative Gardens . 182 

Denver Forestry and Landscape Co. 171 

Denver Rose Society . 190 

First National Bank — Rose Show . 

Inside Front Cover 

Hammer, Lew, Inc. — Landscape Contractor .. 180 

Hydroponic Chemical Co. — Hyponex Plant 

Food . 183 

Miff Garden Nursery . 160 

Keesen, Anthony & Sons — Landscaping. 166 

Koogle, T. C. & Son — Sprinkler Systems .... 184 

Kroh Brothers Nurseries . 163 

Lakewood Seed and Pet Co. 170 

Lawn Management Co. 173 


P> E 

Manco Chemical Co. — Garden Spray 


Material . 7 

Marshall Nurseries . 2 

McCoy and Jensen — Evergreens . 3 

Permagreen Plant Food . 1 

Ralston Valley Excavating Co. 3 

Ra . pid . gro Water Soluble Plant Food . 3 

Schulhoff Arborist Service . 2 

Scotty's Lawn Sprinkler Co. M 

South Denver Evergreen Nursery . 5 

Swingle Tree Surgeons . 178, 1 

Tower Nursery .’. > 

Van Wyk, John — Landscaping . Ill 

Wilmore, W. W., Nurseries Inc. , I 


Inside Back Co ■ 


SK 6-5656 


ILIFF GARDEN 

NURSERY 


4750 E. ILIFF 


Over 80,000 Perennials — 400 Varieties — Everything from A to Z 


CONTAINER GROWN ITEMS 

• GROUND COVERS 

• ROCK GARDEN PLANTS 

• FLOWERING SHRUBS 

• HARDY VINES 

• ROSES 


LARGE SHADE TREES 

• OAKS 

• MAPLES 

• SYCAMORES 

• LINDEN 

• MANY OTHERS 


SK 6-5656 


Annuals and Bedding Plants 

Evergreens — One of the Best Selections in This Area! 
House Plants, Fertilizer, Potting Soil, Peat, Insecticides 

WHOLESALE AND RETAIL 


ILIFF GARDEN 

NURSERY 


4750 E. ILIFF 


160 


v very Saturday Morning—9:10 a.m. 
KLZ Radio. Various Gardening 
Topics by Herbert Gundell, Denver 
County Agent. 

1 .very Saturday Afternoon—4:30 p.m. 
jj KLZ - TV Channel 7, Gardening 
Program by Herbert Gundell. 

'very Tuesday Evening—8:30 p.m. 
J KRMA-TV Channel 6. Mile-high 
Gardening Program. George Kelly, 
j host. 

At Botanic Gardens House 

ii 

une 1—7:45 p.m. Orchid Society 

!une 2—7:30 p.m. Landscape Con- 

I tractors 

une 5—9:30 a.m. Botanic Gardens 
Junior Committee 
4:00 p.m. Childrens’ Group 

une 6—1:00 p.m. Mountain View 
Garden Club 

8:00 p.m. Tree Class. Dr. A. C. 
Hildreth 

ane 7—4:00 p.m. Childrens’ Garden 
Group 

7:30 p.m. Botany Club 

une 8—2:00 p.m. Green Thumb 
i Editorial Committee 
7:30 p.m. Rose Society 


June 12—10:00 a.m. Judges’ Council 

June 13—10:00 a.m. Herbarium 
Study Group. Mrs. Kalmbach 
4:00 p.m. Citizens’ Park & Shade 
Tree Committee 

7:30 p.m. Evergreen Garden Club 

June 15—10:00 a.m. Colorado Fed¬ 
eration of Garden Clubs State Board 
Meeting 

June 16—7:30 p.m. Landscape Con¬ 
tractors 

June 20—12:00 noon. Sloan’s Lake 
Garden Club 

6:30 p.m. Patio Planters Garden 
Club 

8:00 p.m. Tree Class. Dr. A. C. 
Hildreth 

June 21—9:30 a.m. “Fun with Flow¬ 
ers” Workshop 

June 28—10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Ter¬ 
race and Garden Tours 

July 3—9:30 a.m. Botanic Gardens 
Junior Committee 

July 5—7:30 p.m. Botany Club 

July 6—7:45 p.m. Orchid Society 

July 7 — 7:30 p.m. Landscape Con¬ 
tractors 


Tuesday , June 
Open to the 


B.J.'s Garden Club of Aurora—8th Annual Flower Show. 

0, 3:00 - 6:00 p.m., St. Pius 10th Church, 13th and Xanadu, 
ublic. 


Your Best Bet in Fertilizer is 


PERMAGREEN 


PLANT 

FOOD 


for LAWNS, FLOWERS, GARDENS, SHRUBS, TREES 

Chemically Analyzed, State of Colorado Department of 
Agriculture Analysis Guaranteed 

IT'S ORGANIC - WILL NOT BURN ! 

Available at: Better Super Markets, Department 
Stores, Hardware, Seed and Feed Stores 
Wherever Good Things Are Sold 50-Lb. Bag $1.49 


161 


NOTES AND NOTICES 

DENVER ROSE SOCIETY ROSE SHOW—On June 25 the Denver R<e 
Society will stage a rose show in the lobby of the First National Bank of Denv|J 
There will be approximately 800 rose exhibits. Doors open at 1:30 p.m. a;i 
close at 5:30 p.m. (Tor more details see pages 181 and 182.) 

GIFT ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS—A sincere “thank you” is extended i 
the members of the Crestmoor Park Garden Club for the handsome lectci 
which they gave to Denver Botanic Gardens and to the members of the Op\i 
Gate Garden Club for the attractive and much-needed luncheon trays thl 
recently presented to the Botanic Gardens. 

BOOKS AND BOOKLETS FOR SALE — The following books ajj 
booklets may be purchased in the office at Botanic Gardens House, 909 Ycjl 


Street: 

Around the Seasons by S. R. DeBoer.-- $1.1 

Meet the Natives by M. Walter Pesman.spiral binding 3.) 

regular binding 3.*j 

Mountain Wild Flowers, a museum pictorial. l.n 

Colorado Evergreens by Robert E. More. 2. 

How to Grow Good Gardens in the Sunshine States by George Kelly.... 

spiral binding 3. 

regular binding 3.1 

Saga of a Forest Ranger by Len Shoemaker. 5.1 

The Secret of the Green Thumb by Henry and Rebecca Northen. 5.<!J 

Twig Key (Identification of trees and shrubs in winter) by William Harlow 0." 
Fruit Key (Identification of plants by their fruit) by William Harlow.... 0.| 

What Tree is This by the Denver City & County. CL; 

Nature Games by Nesbit. 0.1 


ARTICLES OF LASTING INTEREST — In past issues of The Gref 
Thumb are several articles of interest to today’s gardener. Copies may be o 
tained from Mrs. Helen M. Vincent at Botanic Gardens House. Amoij 
such articles are: Lilacs for Colorado by Milton J. Keegan. The Green Thum 
vol. 1, number 7, December, 1944. Beautifully illustrated. Price—10 cen 
Flowers and Gardens of the Central City Region. A well illustrated issue 1 
several authors. The Green Thumb, vol. 3, number 4, July-August, 194 
Price—50 cents. Hawthorns by M. Walter Pesman. The Green Thumb, vol. 
number 5. May, 1950. A descriptive article and completely illustrated. Price-) 
10 cents. 

DENVER BOTANIC GARDENS NOTE PAPER AVAILABLE—Sefi 
your personal notes to your friends on our new note paper with Botanic Garden 
House etched on the front. Available from Mrs. Vincent, Botanic Garden 
House, at $1.00 per box. 

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS—To date we have received only oijl 
question through the mail for the “Questions and Answers” column. The sing 
question came from A. H. MacAndrews of Syracuse, New York and will 
answered by return mail. This practice will be followed until we have 
sufficient number of questions to print a column in The Green Thumb 
Certainly, many of you readers have gardening questions that you woul) 
like to have answered and would be of interest to other readers. Send you 
questions now to Mrs. J. V. “Pete” Petersen, 909 Ridge Rd., Littleton 
Colorado. Questions considered of general interest to The Green Thum\ 
readers will be answered in a future issue. 


162 


0 

It 

II 


TERRACE AND GARDEN TOUR 

JUNE 28 


I On June 28 the Terrace and Garden Tour will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 
:30 p.m. The tour is sponsored by the Garden Club of Denver and will benefit 
ie Denver Botanic Gardens. 

l 

This year the Tour will include eight gardens and will emphasize the use 
T gardens as an outdoor livingroom. The gardens to be shown are as follows: 

)| 

MR. AND MRS. EDWARD H. HONNEN DR. AND MRS. JAMES R. ARNEILL 


4400 E. Quincy Ave. 
if Englewood 

I Atmosphere of an English country house — sur- 
jjunded by a singular collection of uncommon and 
lij'll-established trees and shrubs. 

MR. AND MRS. ATWILL GILMAN 

4001 E. Quincy Ave. 

Englewood 

Interesting combination of traditional and con- 
tiporary interior. Leads to a charming, white- 
heed country garden. 

MR. AND MRS. HOLBROOK MAHN 

3800 E. Quincy Ave. 

Englewood 

'Dramatic use of contemporary materials inside 
’d outside of this bi-level home in harmony with 
jignificence of setting and view. 

MR. AND MRS. WALTER W. HUNZICKER 

4501 Greenwood Lane 
Englewood 

A two-level garden with well designed brick 
j race and flower beds above. A path to the 
ver area is planted in an attractive and natural- 
ic setting. 


2525 E. Cedar Ave. 

Denver 

Extensive indoor garden accented with tropical 
plants. Glass walls afford interesting relationship 
year around between house and well-planned out¬ 
door garden. 

MR. AND MRS. CHARLES GATES, JR. 

444 S. University Blvd. 

Denver 

A very comfortable garden with a greenhouse, 
vegetable garden, children's play yard and con¬ 
temporary open terrace. 

MR. AND MRS. MUNROE LYETH 

556 S. Elizabeth 
Denver 

A garden of outstanding natural beauty at¬ 
tained by excellent design and use of plant ma¬ 
terial. A perfect setting for the free-form swim¬ 
ming pool. 

MR. AND MRS. JAMES STOKES 

555 S. Elizabeth 
Denver 

An inviting entrance leads through a formal 
foyer to the spacious terrace, perennial garden, 
tennis court and spectator area. 


Tickets are $2.50 per person and are available from Mrs. Raymond Sar- 
:nt, 2124 E. 4th Avenue; Mrs. Vincent, Botanic Gardens House, 909 York 
reet, and from the following nurseries and garden stores: 


ALAMEDA NURSERY 
CREATIVE GARDENS 
COTTONWOOD GARDEN SHOP 
GREEN BOWERS NURSERY 


ILIFF GARDEN NURSERY 
MARSHALL NURSERIES 
ROCKY MOUNTAIN SEED CO. 
W. W. WILMORE NURSERIES 


MAKE ALL CHECKS PAYABLE TO DENVER BOTANIC GARDENS 


KROH BROS. NURSERIES 

Preferred Nursery Stock for the 
Rocky Mountain and Plains Regions 

ONE MILE NORTH OF LOVELAND HIGHWAY 287 
P. O. Box 536 Loveland, Colorado 

Drop Card for Our Current Catalog 


163 


AMERICAN SOCIETY OF LANDSCAPE 
ARCHITECTS TO MEET JULY 10-12 

A meeting of many of the nation’s professional landscape architects w 
be held at the Harvest House Hotel in Boulder, Colorado, July 10-12. 

The general theme of the meeting will center around our “arid west” ai 
how to make it more livable through landscape architecture. Those who atteii 
the meeting will hear speakers such as Dr. Richard G. Beideman, Professor 
Biology at Colorado College, discuss “Life Zones from Plains to Peaks”; Sib ; 
Moholy-Nagy, Professor of Architecture, Pratt Institute, Brooklyn, New Yo 
who will speak on the subject, “Buildings and Back-grounds” and many oth 
speakers and panels discussing our present problems and practices in Landscaj 
Architecture. In addition to topics concerning landscape architecture, scientist 
from the Boulder laboratories will tell of some of the work carried on in the 
fields of science as an educational gesture to those in the practical arts. Repr| 
sented in this session will be Dr. A. C. Hildreth, Director of the Denver Botan 
Gardens and previous director of the Cheyenne Horticultural Field Station 
Cheyenne, Wyoming. Lay member on this panel will be the well-known edit 
and publisher, Mr. John B. Jackson of Santa Fe, New Mexico, whose magazii 
Landscape, brilliantly covers world-wide use of urban and rural land. 

Plan to attend the Boulder meetings. For more information concerning tl 
program write Sam Huddleston, General Chairman, 2395 South Josephii 
Street, Denver 10, Colorado. 


DR. FEUCHT TO RESIGN 

BOTANIST-HORTICULTURIST POSITION 


It is with deep regret that we an¬ 
nounce the resignation of Dr. James 
R. Feucht from our Botanic Gardens 
staff effective the 23rd of June. He 
has accepted the position of Assistant 
Professor of Ornamental Horticulture 
at Rutgers, the State University of 
New Jersey. 

Dr. and Mrs. Feucht, their daugh¬ 
ters, two-year-old Debby and baby, 
Lisa, will leave the last week of June 
for New Brunswick where he will enter 
upon his new duties the first day of 
July. 

In his letter of resignation he men¬ 
tioned considerably higher salary, 
more frequent and much larger pay 
increases and greater opportunity for 
experimental research in plant science 
as his reasons for accepting the New 
Jersey position. 

We all regret that budgetary limita- 


JAMES R. FEUCHT 

Maynard Photo, Deny 3 

tions prevented the Denver Botarij 
Gardens from offering him a mol 
adequate salary and that we could nil 
provide facilities and opportunities f'jj 


164 


esearch in plant science for which he 
s specially trained and which our re¬ 
ion so much needs. 

His most significant accomplish¬ 
ment was his taking hold of our Green 
diumb Magazine in a masterful way, 
improving its quality and increasing 
I he advertising. In addition, he has 
tendered valuable assistance in plan¬ 
ing and laying out garden plantings, 
|i our information service and in our 
ducational program, particularly the 
children’s garden project. 

) We hope that whenever he returns 
b his native state of Colorado he will 
jisit the Denver Botanic Gardens and 


see the results of his earlier efforts. 
Who knows but that the turns of the 
wheel of fortune may in the future 
bring him back to Denver as a perma¬ 
nent member of our staff. 

I am certain that the Board of Trus¬ 
tees and all the members of the Den¬ 
ver Botanic Gardens join me in say¬ 
ing “Thanks, Dr. Feucht, for a job 
well done and our sincerest good 
wishes for your success in your new 
position. ” 

Lawrence A. Long 
President, Board of Trustees 
Denver Botanic Gardens 


>ear Pete, 

i For three consecutive years we en¬ 
ured severe hail damage here at 
rush, Colo. A soft maple, planted 
ear the kitchen window for quick 
lade, has been extremely chlorotic 
yer since. Do you have a good home 
;medy? 

In-A-Lather 

•ear Brushless, 

Yellowing foliage, usually a symp- 
>m of either a deficiency or unavail- 
bility of iron to the plant, is very 
revalent in soft maple. For this rea¬ 


son, perhaps hackberry would have 
been a better kitchen tree. Doubt¬ 
less, a professional arborist would in¬ 
ject iron in gelatinous capsules into the 
trunk. Earl Sinnamon, family tree sur¬ 
geon suggests this home remedy: With 
an auger, drill holes in the soil about 
eight inches deep and about 18 inches 
apart out from the trunk. Into these 
holes pour iron sulphate at the rate 
of one-half pound for each three 
inches of trunk diameter plus one 
pound of complete fertilizer for each 
three inches of diameter. Soak the 


165 


soil thoroughly. A supplementary 
foliar feeding may be given in July. 


Dear Pete-unia, 

After visiting our garden club my 
childhood friend suggests when she is 
older she will join a garden club. At 
33 she prefers bridge, golf, and bowl¬ 
ing. Is plant-loving a sign of old age? 


SADiola 


Dear GLADiola, 

It can’t be! I suffer the same symp 
toms! 

Witness hundreds of children pa 
ticipating in gardening exhibits i 
4-H Fairs in this region. Examine th 
lives of Liberty Hyde Bailey and Alici 
Eastwood whose love for plants floui 
ished from age 9 to 90. 

It’s everyone to his own choice, bi 
I prefer a spade under my foot to on 
in my hand. 


Dear Pete, 

■ 

Our new home in an establishe s 
neighborhood was especially attractive 
because both the house and ground 
have that lived-in look. To our disma 
those ugly blue bells are among th: 
garden inhabitants. I think some ca; 
them the cancer of the garden? I 
there any cure? 

Blue Bell j 

Dear Blue Belle, 

Several years ago Max Bauer gav| 
them the gong with an application c 
Potassium Cyanate. (The materi^ 
used to exterminate ants and criminal 
is Potassium Cyanide.) In early Jun^ 
he sprayed the plants with a solutio I 
of 5 ounces Aero Cyanate per gallo i 
of water. No new plants appeared 
until September of the same year. Th[ 
following June, by repeating the ap 
plication, he completely cleared th? 
plot of Blue Bells. All spraying wal : 
done on windless days. 


n n t h o n y 

P keeseii & sons 

4201 East lliff 

SK 6-4040 

■C* anJ.5ca.pinq and Contracting j 

SP 7-7873 

Hi-Pressure Spraying and Tree Trimming 


Aerating Lawns 

AUTOMATIC UNDERGROUND SPRINKLING SYSTEMS 


166 


Good grooming begins in the garden. Assuming that you have carefully 
lected your roses, prepared the soil properly and planted them correctly, you 
*e now ready to take the most important step in the growing of good roses, 
amely, a systematic program of maintenance. 

Roses need not be pampered as much as many people claim. It is true that 
• grow good roses we must give them a deep, copiously applied watering at the 
me of planting and throughout the growing season, that we should give them 
ipplemental feedings and that periodical spraying or dusting is necessary to 
rntrol pests, but this is also true of most all of the other ornamental plants we 
lltivate. By following the simple steps and “hints” in the next few paragraphs 
)u will be able to grow good roses yet give them little more attention than the 
st of your garden plants. 

Early in spring, after the mounds of soil placed for winter protection have 
ien removed, a good cultivation and weeding is in order. Care should be 
ken not to disturb the feeder roots that often grow near the soil surface. Roses 
} not thrive well when the soil surface is too compact. Far better results have 
jen obtained in our garden by using both a light cultivation and the applica- 
Dn of a mulch. A mulch consisting of weed-free compost or peat and well 
>tted cow manure has served best. 


To Control Your INSECT PESTS .... 

Use 

RID-ALL — The best all-purpose spray 
for your garden flowers, 
trees and shrubs. 


■ 

At Over 500 Stores in Greater Denver 


167 


-WUWVCO" 


manco chemical co. 
denver, Colorado 


When watering, remember that red roses require more water than th 
lighter-colored varieties and should have some afternoon shade, if possible. l| 
this area of high light intensity and frequent windy days, it is best to provid 
some protection for the roses by well placed plantings. This should be con ! 
sidered when laying out a new rose garden. 

When the new growth is about four to six inches tall it is well to apply 
balanced fertilizer to the soil. Always water the fertilizer in well. After th 
first profuse bloom, fertilize again. 

Foliar feeding can be done to supplement the regular fertilizing prograr, 
throughout the growing season, if needed. Many of the pest control sprays ij 
use today are compatible with the liquid fertilizers used in foliar feeding. Conj 
siderable time and effort can be saved by mixing them and thus applying fooo 
and protection from pests all in one operation. After about the 15th of August 
cease using fertilizers that are high in nitrogen for this will allow the plant ti 
reduce in growth activity and better prepare it for the hardening-off process i: 
fall. Phosphorus, on the other hand, encourages hardening-off. 

As far as control of the few pests that attack roses in this area, an all 
purpose spray or dust is usually quite effective. Our number one fungus probj 
lem, mildew, is readily controlled with a small amount of detergent and magj 
nesium sulfate. If more drastic treatment is required, karathane or acti-dion 
is effective. Always use caution when spraying roses. If applied when the lea 
surface temperature is too high, spotting will result. If you plan to exhibi 
roses, try to time your feeding, watering and spraying program so that the plant 
will be at their best when exhibit time approaches. 

With a little patience and care, you can have a beautiful and long-lastin 
display of roses to enjoy in your out-door livingroom. 


The Instantl y Soluble 
Concentrated High-Nutrition 
Plant Food for 5-Way Feeding! 


The pioneer in foliar feeding; origina¬ 
tor of the Reilly Secret Formula, bal¬ 
ancing basic nutrients; Nitrogen 23%, 
Phosphoric Acid 21%, Potash 17% 
plus trace elements and hormones. 


FAST! EASY! SURE! SAFE! 


168 


Photo Courtesy of the Soil Conservation Service 


MAKING THE PLAINS LIVEABLE 

Chris G. Moritz, Landscape Architect 


It is more than ten years ago that 
I first came to Colorado. I still re¬ 
member very distinctly the impression 
I had travelling on the train from 
Chicago coming from a densely pop¬ 
ulated, naturally wooded and inten¬ 
sively cultivated Europe. What a 
desolate country are these Plains, a 
country without any trees for miles 
where grasses are the natural vegeta¬ 
tion. It was then that I realized 
strongly that it is the creation of lim¬ 
ited spaces, of protection and privacy 
that is the most important factor add¬ 
ing to the liveability of the Plains. 
Planting is one of the best ways to 
achieve liveable spaces. The early set¬ 
tler of the Plains realized this. When¬ 
ever water was available they planted 
groves of trees around their home¬ 
steads. Soon trees grew along their 
irrigation ditches too and cities looked 
like oases. 

It is this creation of useable, live¬ 
able and enjoyable outdoor spaces that 


is one of the basic objects of landscape 
architecture. Building architecture is 
concerned largely with creation of in¬ 
door spaces, with outdoor spaces only 
as far as grouping of structures is con¬ 
cerned. Landscape architecture is con¬ 
cerned with the spacial design of all 
outdoor elements. Oftentimes we lack 
the proper spacial feeling for outdoor 
spaces when we drive through the 
countryside, because we are already 
inside a spacial enclosure, our car. Just 
compare the impression you get when 
you step out of your car between 
Green Mountain and Hogback on Ala¬ 
meda, a foothill valley with hardly 
any tree growth, with the impression 
you get stepping out of your car in the 
Park Hill area, for instance. Talking 
about creation of liveable outdoor 
spaces, let us first of all consider the 
backyard, or should we call it the gar¬ 
den? A yard to me means the portion 
of the site that comes with the house, 
more or less a necessary evil. You do 


169 


excessively high planting. (Heave 
knows where the habit came from t 
use an upright juniper on each corm 
of the house. It does not make an 
sense to me.) 

With the ranch style homes cam 
the popularity of terrace or patio. W 
prefer to use the word patio, indica 
ing that we prefer the Spanish idea ( 
having an enclosed sitting area opej 
to the sky. We should follow th 
Spanish example at least to the poir 
that our patio has an enclosure fror 
two sides. It will mean more comfo! 
and liveability to us. 

In our Colorado summer climate w] 
often find our gardens most comfor 
able in the evening after sundowf 
Outdoor lighting has done a lot to e> 
tend the liveability of our gardens dui; 
ing those evening hours. We are sti 
in the initial experimenting stages wit 
outdoor lighting and a lot of refine 
lighting techniques are yet to be worf 
ed out. 

In recent years maintenance ha 
been a factor that acts as a deterrer 
for many people to really enjoy th 
outdoors. Some people constantly citi 
all the chores that are connected wit 
their yard instead of starting to enurrj 
erate all the joy they can derive fror 
pleasant surroundings and from seein 
plants develop and grow. The attitud 
with which you do your outside wor 


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170 


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as little with it as you have to. The 
word garden, on the other hand, or¬ 
iginally meant a cultivated plot for 
growing vegetables and cutflowers, 
fenced in with “gerten” (stakes) to 
keep neighbor’s dogs and children out. 
When the yard is being fenced and 
cultivated it becomes a garden. We 
are in a fast transition period towards 
a liveable garden. This garden will 
provide privacy for leisure time out¬ 
door activities, it will provide utility 
areas and it will include more and 
more areas where we can cultivate our 
favorite plants. Let’s make zoning reg¬ 
ulations follow this trend and allow for 
privacy by adjusting fence regulations. 
I hope just as much that outdated 
building codes will finally acknowledge 
and allow use of new existing materials 
that will make utility poles and over¬ 
head wires a thing of the past. 

The trend from the old “mansion” 
sitting high above the surrounding 
grade towards the rambling ranch style 
home squatting on the ground is an¬ 
other factor that increases the live- 
ability of our outdoor spaces. We ac¬ 
quire an entirely different attitude 
towards outdoor space as soon as we 
are on the same level with it. Maybe 
we will learn eventually too, that this 
trend is making our dear old founda¬ 
tion planting a thing of the past. If 
the modern home is well designed 
there is no need to hide it behind an 


A PATIO — FOR MORE LIVEABILITY 


makes the difference between chore 
and fun. I am sure that we can stim¬ 
ulate a lot of interest and an entirely 
different attitude towards living plants 
f we start teaching our school children 
he principles of plant growth on living 
examples right on the school grounds, 
^s those children grow up they would 
lave a different attitude towards a sub¬ 
division developer who first has to 
dean all existing plant growth off his 
;ite with his dozer and destroy the live- 
ibility of his subdivision before he 
itarts building it. If these children 
earn something about soil and how 
ong it takes Mother Nature to just 
)uild up an inch of topsoil, they would 
tet an entirely different attitude to- 
vards conservation practices. How 
ong can we afford to clutter up our 
andscape with all kinds of junk pro- 


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ducts of our technical age. A foreign 
architect, after touring this country, 
remarked “The American leaves a 
path of ugliness wherever he goes”— 
starting from beer cans after a picnic 
to dwellings built the cheapest way 
permissable to last the thirty year 
mortgage period and from poor grad¬ 
ing resulting in erosion to air and 
water pollution by industry. 

If we want to make the plains more 
liveable, we cannot just look at our 
own backyard and let our neighbor¬ 
hood and our city be ruined. We have 
to realize that anything that happens to 
our environment effects us too. What 
happens to our environment effects the 
real estate value of our property as 
well as our mental and physical well 
being. Therefore the environment we 
live in should be of concern to us. 


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171 


One way to assure a more liveable en¬ 
vironment is by good planning prac¬ 
tices and by carrying out those plans. 
Lots of good ideas are being put on 
paper and never carried out. We are 
talking ourselves out of a lot of enjoy¬ 
ment with the excuse that we cannot 
afford it. The true reason is that we 
do not realize how badly we actually 
want true liveability of outdoor spaces. 
We often do not realize that our en¬ 
vironment influences us constantly and 
that a pleasant environment can mean 
a lot of joy and satisfaction for our 
daily living. 

Looking at qur environment on a 
citywide basis, what are we doing to 
improve the liveability of our cities 
of today and what is even more im¬ 
portant to make sure our cities of to¬ 
morrow, the cities for our children, 
will be at least as liveable as ours are. 
It seems to me we are resting and en¬ 
joying what 30-60 years ago a gener¬ 
ation with foresight has done for us. 
Park- and parkway systems of most 
Colorado cities have been acquired for 
us a long time ago. People at one time 
claimed that the City of Denver was 
building parkways for Kansas City. 
Now we are glad those parkways in 


East Denver were built. They con 
tribute a great deal to the liveabilin 
of this city. I suppose, everybody rea 
izes that a treeless city in this sunn 
and dry climate would be an unbea 
able place to live. If Denver would t 
a city without trees its chances for ft 
ture growth would be rather slim. 

Higher birth rates in the U. S. i 
recent years, a movement of peop i 
towards population centers, an ii 
creasing percentage of old people wit 
leisure time, shorter working hour 
and more leisure time for everybody 
and ready availability of private car ; 
are the trends of our days. Since 194; 
in the U. S., growth in city park acn 
age has not kept pace with populatio 
gains. Joseph Prendergast summe 
this up in the following warning: Mor 
and more people and more and mor! 
time for recreation and less and lesi 
space in which to use it. 

We ought to increase our efforts i 
setting aside enough land now for th 
development of future parks and park 
way. What we need is an intensiv 
education to make people realize th 
values of good planning, of park de 
velopment and of making their citie 
more liveable by good landscaping. 


Attend the Denver Rose Show, June 25, 1:30 - 5:30 p.m. First National 

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172 


I 


EXOTICS OF COLORADO 


THE FLOWER (a), FRUIT (b), LEAF (c) AND TWIG (d) OF TULIP TREE 


THE TULIP TREE 

Helen Marsh Zeiner 


Liriodendron tulip ifera, the Tulip 
Tree, is an exotic of Colorado which 
:an be found occasionally in Denver 
and which has possibilities for the 
area. While exotic to Colorado, the 
:ulip tree is native to the eastern half 
of the United States, with a natural 
range from southern New England 
through New York to southern Wis¬ 
consin and southward to northeastern 
Alabama and northern Florida. In its 
aative habitat, the tulip tree is a very 
large and valuable tree, reaching 
Teights of 150 feet and diameters of 
eight to ten feet. It is a desirable lum¬ 


ber tree, growing very straight and 
producing an easily worked, even¬ 
grained wood. In the lumber industry 
it is known as yellow-poplar or white- 
wood, however, it has no relationship 
whatsoever with the poplars. The tu¬ 
lip tree is, in fact, a member of the 
Magnolia family! 

The tulip tree is named for its showy 
flower, which is tulip-like or bell¬ 
shaped, greenish yellow and sometimes 
tinged with orange or orange red. 
Liriodendron literally means tulip or 
lily tree. The flowers usually appear 
in May or June and are followed by 


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173 


an upright cone-like fruit about three 
inches long. The fruit contains winged 
seeds which are carried away by the 
wind. The “cone” can be seen even 
after the leaves drop in the autumn. 

Although the name comes from the 
flower, the large leaves are very dis¬ 
tinctive in shape, and might be likened 
to a modernistic tulip design! The tip 
of the leaf appears as if it was cut off 
with a pair of shears, leaving a broad, 
shallow notch which the botanist re¬ 
fers to as truncate. In addition to the 
two lobes at the apex, there are two 
lobes at the base, adding to the tulip¬ 
like appearance. 

The bark on large trees is deeply 
furrowed and grayish; on young trees 
it is rather smooth, but the pattern of 
the furrows can be seen. The color 
and the pattern make a very attractive 
trunk. 

The winter buds are unique and in¬ 
teresting—they are blunt and flattened 
with two large bud scales, making a 
“duck bill” bud. 

Tulip tree grows tall, straight, and 
narrow, with short side branches. It 
has a deep root system. 

This handsome tree was made the 
state flower of Indiana in 1923. It has 
been reported as the second largest tree 
in Indiana. 


In its native areas, the tulip tre 
prefers a moist, rich, well-drained so 
and thrives best in protected coves am 
lower parts of slopes of hills, alway 
growing with other deciduous trees 
As one might guess from this, the tuli] 
tree is difficult to grow in Denver am 
must have good soil and some protec 
tion. It can be done, however, am 
once established it is a very rewarding 
tree. While it grows rapidly in its nal 
tive habitat, it is a slow grower ii 
Denver and size should never becom 
a problem. Young trees can now b 
obtained locally. Two or three estab 
lished Tulip Trees are growing in Cit; 
Park next to a planting of evergreen; 
close to the 17th Avenue entrance 
nearest to Colorado Blvd. Here th{ 
trees are well-protected, but they arc 
also crowded, and they are not speci 
men trees. A very fine specimen caii 
be seen in front of a home on the wes 
side of South Franklin St. in the 40( 
block just north of Virginia Ave. Thi 
tree is easy to find if you watch fo 
the Fire Station at the north edge o! 
Washington Park and then walk nortl[ 
on Franklin about half a block. There! 
is also a tulip tree at 2329 S. Corona 
St. Denver has other tulip trees whose; 
location has not been reported and 
Green Thumb readers would like to 
hear about them. Can you add to ou;> 
list? 


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174 


HERE THEY ARE! 

THE 1962 ALL-AMERICA ROSE SELECTIONS 

(Photos Courtesy of All-America Rose Selections, 16 East 50th St., New York 22, N. Y.) 


JOHN S. ARMSTRONG IS ONLY THE FOURTH 
GRANDIFLORA TO CAPTURE THIS COVETED 
AWARD. ITS DISTINCTIVE, DEEP, VELVETY RED 
FLOWERS, WHICH RANGE UP TO 4" ACROSS 
WHEN FULLY OPENED, ARE TRULY COLOR FAST 
IN EVERY STAGE UNLIKE MOST DARK RED 
ROSES, THEY WILL NOT BURN OR ASSUME A 
BLUISH HUE. FLOWERS ARE BORNE IN CLUS¬ 
TERS, WITH LONG INDIVIDUAL STEMS THAT 
MAKE THEM IDEAL FOR CUTTING. 


CHRISTIAN DIOR, H. T„ IS DISTINGUISHED BY 
ITS BRIGHT, CRIMSON RED FLOWERS WHICH 
ARE OVERLAID WITH AN IRIDESCENT SCARLET. 
PRODUCING LARGE BLOOMS OF 50 TO 60 
PETALS, WHICH ROLL OUT GRACEFULLY, THEY 
REMAIN STEADFAST IN COLOR THROUGHOUT 
THEIR LONG LIFE, REGARDLESS OF WEATHER. 
UNDER ARTIFICIAL LIGHTING THE PETALS AC¬ 
TUALLY TAKE ON A UNIQUE GLOW. CHRISTIAN 
DIOR IS THE FIRST RED HYBRID TEA TO RECEIVE 
AN AARS AWARD SINCE 1953. 


175 


GOLDEN SLIPPERS ACHIEVES A COLOR BRE 
AMONG FLORIBUNDAS WITH ITS DISTINCT^ 
PETALS OF FLUORESCENT ORANGE AND GO: 1 
ITS UNIQUE COLORING BEGINS IN BRIG* 
GOLD BUDS THAT ARE FLUSHED WITH R. 
BLOOMS OF GOLDEN SLIPPERS DISPLAY 
UPPER PETAL SURFACE OF GLOWING ORAN 
VERMILION, CONTRASTED BRILLIANTLY BY 
RICH, GOLD COLOR ON THE LOWER SURFA 


KING'S RANSOM IS THE FIRST YELLOW HYBI 
TEA TO TAKE AARS HONORS SINCE 19, 
FULL, LARGE FLOWERS OF FIVE TO SIX INOi; 
ARE BORNE IN GREAT ABUNDANCE ON LO > 
STEMS. BLOOMS ARE HIGH CENTERED, NEA 
COVERED AND FULL. BOTH BUDS AND FLOWIi 
SHOW LITTLE VARIATION IN COLOR W 
CLIMATE CHANGES. 


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176 


THE JAPANESE GARDEN AT BROOKLYN BOTANIC GARDEN HELPS TO 
INTERPRET CULTURE OF THE FAR EAST 

THE BROOKLYN BOTANIC 

GARDEN' 


George S. Avery, Jr., Director 


We are one of four divisions of the Brooklyn Institute of Arts and Sciences, 
hundred and thirty-three-year-old eleemosynary institution engaged largely in 
le business of popular education, and in the case of Botanic Garden, also in 
cientific research. Our gardens and arboretum are established on fifty acres of 
md belonging to the City of New York; our Laboratory and Administration 
uilding and range of greenhouses occupy about two and one-half acres of this 
md. State and City statutes that pertain to the establishment of the Garden date 
om 1897 to 1912; the Garden was started as a physical entity in 1911. While 
tie to the land and structures is held by the City of New York, all plant col- 
ctions, scientific equipment, etc., belong to the Trustees of the private corpor- 
ion. This general relation between the City and the Botanic Garden is char- 
cteristic of twelve of the major cultural institutions presently affiliated with the 
ity of New York. It provides City support for care of grounds and structures 
.e., the park and museum aspect of our operations) and for some of our 


1 Reprinted in part, from The American Institute of Biological Sciences Bulletin, 
ol. VII (2): 18-20, April, 1957 by special permission from The American Institute of 
ological Sciences and the author, Dr. George S. Avery,Jr. 


177 


educational activities, and leaves Trustee funds to be mainly concerned wi 
popular education and scientific research. We feel that this coupling of munic 
pal support with private enterprise and generosity makes for the freedom ai 
flexibility characteristic of private operations, yet gives basic support that 
essential, and permits the botanic garden to render a service to the people f 
the city that could not be offered if either the city government or the priva 
corporation were to operate it alone. 

The greenhouse and outdoor plant collection run into the thousands 
species, and are as extensive as the space allows. The displays are to son 
extent grouped taxonomically, but with an eye to landscape appeal. The e 
sence of the social usefulness of the outdoor displays is to be found in the 
organization as landscape units, i.e., small special gardens. The first few of the 1 
were constructed some forty years ago,—the Japanese Garden, Rock Garde 
Wild Garden (local floral section”), and the Lily Pools. Others, including t 
Rose Garden, Herb Garden, Iris Garden and Garden of Fragrance for the Blini 
have been developed during the past twenty years. The end is not yet; a hillsis 
“Hanging Garden” is to be constructed this year, and a Garden of Dwarf Plar 
is scheduled for the not distant future. Bequests and other private generosr 
of many interested citizens have made largely possible the magnificent display 
They are designed for public enjoyment, and the degree of their success is 
tested to by the 1,200,000 visitors who came last year to see them. The “ma: 
gardens within a garden” is part of the pattern and philosophy of the founder 
and is as important today as it was in the beginning. 

Putting the gardens and collections to work in a more intensive way is t! 
task of our Department of Education. There are three more or less distinct pr 
grams. One consists of short courses for adults. There were thirty-three sw 
popular courses last year. All concern plants, and most are slanted toward popi 
lar horticulture, but some towards science and others toward art. They me:j 
from three to five times, and have from twelve or fifteen to more than a hu 
dred students, most of them twenty-five to thirty or more. They are chief: 
learning-by-doing courses, designed to help build lifetime avocations and a<! 
enrichment to living for people who may have missed such opportunities und 
the formal education system of the colleges and universities. It is continuii 
education at the level of volunteer interest. More than 1,200 people from eve: 
walk of life, professional, housewives, etc., take such courses. Tuitions are ke 
low, so no one is barred for economic reasons. A second educational progra; 
is carried on cooperatively with the public schools, wherein approximate! 
20,000 children in grades 4 to 8 come to the Garden for classes. Sheer nui 


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178 


\ 


srs make it impossible for all of these to take part- in a learning-by-doing 
rogram, but it is a real experience with living things, in a sense with the 
iindamentals of biological science. Too few grade school students ever have 
iis opportunity. To implement this experience to some extent, we send out 
jirough the grade schools about one million packets of garden seeds, so that 
lildren may “get on their own" with living things during the summer months. 
They pay two cents per packet.) A third program, for those who qualify, is a 
immer garden for children here at the Botanic Garden. This is linked with 
iturday morning (“leisure time”) classes for children that meet throughout the 
I inter and spring months. While some seven hundred different youngsters can 
irticipate in the Saturday classes, only three hundred can now be accommo- 
ited in the summer children's garden—which is to be doubled in size in the 
2 xt two years. 

These classes are the key to the life of the Botanic Garden. They help make 
mbassadors-at-large in this great metropolitan community, and while a barely 
gnificant fraction of the total population, they (the ambassadors) carry the 
?ws of the Garden everywhere, to amateurs like themselves, who in turn come 
>r courses. It is a never-ending chain, based on meaningful popular education 
id the good will that our teachers and other staff members try to make evi- 
mt in all their relations with people. We are helping to inspire potential 
| ologists of the future. 

Any such setup must have a tangible and closely affiliated group of friends 
ii make it successful. In our case we have “members” of whom there are pres- 
ltly about 1,700. Three-fourths of them live in or around New York, one- 
iurth in over thirty states. Of these, two hundred constitute a special volunteer 
Women’s organization, and the old saying “never underestimate the power of a 
oman” is abundantly supported by the activities of this group. They make 
bssible some of the Garden’s finest accomplishments. 

To project the work of the Garden, and ornamental horticulture generally, 
e publish a quarterly magazine that goes to every state and to thirty-six foreign 
^untries. Its circulation is modest, but it has helped make many friends for 
brticulture and botanical science, and we hope through this, for biological 
ience generally. It is part of the overall Garden plan to make socially useful 
e scientific knowledge that man has accumulated about the world’s plants 
fbeauty. 

Scientific research is one of the Botanic Garden’s charter obligations, and 


179 


like many colleges and universities, it has had periods of strength and periods < 
weakness in this endeavor. Our current research plans, under the guidance <j 
Paul R. Buckholder, are concerned in an important way with micro-organism 
One of the objectives of the work is to discover microorganism-produce 
compounds that will be useful in cancer chemotherapy. Toward this end we pla 
to transfer our scientific research from the city to a building we expect to erect; 
our recently purchased Field Station property one and one-quarter hours fc 
automobile from the Garden. This will provide more ample laboratory spaci 
and simplify the living problems of scientific staff who are raising young familie 
Library facilities and important urban contacts will be available to them. TI 
Field Station property and laboratory research program will have separate su{ 
port, and not disturb the established activities of the Garden. Included in it 
a plant breeding program that has been going on for the past three or foi 
years. This program will necessitate increasing nursery space, where progen 
can be tested over a period of years. Part of the two hundred and twenty-thre 
acre Field Station will be devoted to this, as well as to conservation educatioi 
and as further interest develops, there is a potentially magnificent setting for 
Brooklyn-Westchester Botanic Garden of the future. 

Lastly, a word about what it takes to finance Botanic Garden operations, fc j 
without sound support none of the activities mentioned could be carried or 
From the City of New York we receive approximately $200,000 annually. Thij 
goes mainly toward the maintenance of grounds and structures, and to a smalkf 
extent toward the cultural program described. Our endowment amounts to a{ 
proximately $3,500,000, and the annual income of $120,000 is devoted entirel 
to scientific and educational activities. The current annual gift and membershi; 
income from thoughtful and generous friends amounts to another $50,000; thj 
is chiefly devoted to popular education and projects related thereto. An add, 
tional $50,000 comes and goes in self-liquidating projects of a scientific ar 
educational nature. 

It should be mentioned here that a limited number of fellowships are avai 
able to those with bachelor’s degrees who might want to seek training and e; 
perience in the socially-slanted botany and horticulture that make up our educ; 
tional program. There are also fellowships for scientific work, and collaborate 
with New York and Columbia Universities makes for possible study for high*; 
degrees. 

Not all botanical gardens are doing the same things, nor are they all locate 
in metropolitan centers, but this account of the program of the Brooklyn Botam 
Garden will give biologists a general idea of “what they do there.” 


“How beautiful the Rose, as it unfolds its vernal dyes 
And breathes a holy fragrance round, like incense from the skies; 
Casts to the breeze the sparkling dews that glitter on its stem, 

And wreathes around its blushing brows a crystal diadem.” 

— from The Rose by Robert Caunter. 

LEW HAMMER, INC. 


Landscape Contractor 


Tel. WE. 5-592 


3EAUTY 
BY THE 

BANKFUL 


Dabney Otis Collins 


|A new kind of wealth, a wealth of 
lauty, will flow into Denver’s First 
djttional Bank on June 25. This is 
If.; day of the 13th annual show of 
lb Denver Rose Society. Entries of 
Ucimen blooms, sprays and arrange- 
;nts numbering almost a thousand, 
il transform the bank’s impressive 
)by into a fairyland of techni-colored 
Jendor. 

Roses in the Denver area should be 
; their peak of perfection. We’ve had 
Uood winter for roses and, so far, a 
jod spring. Denver Rose Society 
[embers are hopeful that, if the 
atherman continues to be good to 
;m, their entries will be of true show 
ality. Many of the newer roses are 
ling entered, many of which you may 
Ijjve never seen except in pictures, 
mis will be an excellent opportunity 
r visitors to take notes of these roses 
I* possible use in their own gardens. 

' rite down the names, the colors and 
i apes of the blossoms, the quality of 


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1594 SO. FOREST 
omplete Care and Maintenance 
of 

I Trees, Shrubs and Evergreens 


SK 6-3366 


SCENE AT 1959 ROSE SHOW 


petals and foliage. For the first time, 
there is a class for miniature roses. 
Sensational progress has been made 
recently in these tiny replicas of regu¬ 
lar garden-size roses. 

Another first at the Denver Rose 
Show will be a display of the All 
America Rose Selections for 1962. 
These distinctive roses, supplied by 
the companies producing them, will 
be highly promoted and eagerly sought 
next year. See them in all their glory 
at their premiere in this region. The 
following are the AARS selections for 
1962: Christian Dior and King’s Ran¬ 
som, both hybrid teas; Golden Slippers, 
floribunda; and John S. Armstrong, 
grandiflora. (See page 175 for more on 
these roses.) 

In addition to this exclusive feature, 
the Denver Botanic Gardens will fur¬ 
nish roses for special decorations, 
foliage plants to be supplied by the 
bank. 

Arrangements, always popular with 


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DENVER 20, COLORADO 


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visitors to flower shows, will be espe¬ 
cially highlighted. Three sections of 
arrangements have been planned and 
in all, roses must predominate. Denver 
Rose Society members (and that in¬ 
cludes men too) are being asked to 
whet their imaginations and limber up 
their fingers on the following themes: 
Colorado Mountain Peaks, Roses 
Through History, and Elfland. 

In the Colorado Mountain Peaks 
section the arranger selects a moun¬ 
tain peak and creates the design 
around it. For example, one mountain 
might connote gold mining, another 
skiing, another hunting or camping. A 
class in the Roses Through History 
section is described in the show sched¬ 
ule as “Spanish missions,” “Red or 
red-blend roses with pine or any ever¬ 
green,” “In pottery or wooden con¬ 
tainer.” Elfland is the section for 
miniatures and should really be some¬ 
thing to see! Imagine an arrangement 
made in a thimble standing on a pen¬ 
ny — that’s “Pennies from Heaven.” 
Or miniature roses in a perfume bottle, 
the arrangement not to exceed four 
inches — that’s “Just a Whiff.” 

The great variety of classes in each 
section assures arrangements in a 
selection of subjects bounded only by 
the arranger’s imagination. Each ar¬ 


rangement, from the tiniest to t 
largest, is an artistic conception bo 
of infinite patience and understandin 
fingers, a blending of materials ai 
the elements of design into a pure e| 
pression of beauty. 

Trophies include 18 cups and t, 
Albera Sweepstakes Bowl. They wl 
be displayed in the bank one we<> 
prior to the show. In addition to tl 
trophies, certificates will be award* 
by the American Rose Society as fc 
lows: Gold Medal Certificate f s 
Queen of Show, the best single blooj 
of hybrid tea or grandiflora; 2nd Go 
Medal Certificate for best group 
three hybrid teas; Silver Medal Ct 
tificate for second best single bloom k 
hybrid tea or grandiflora; 2nd Silv| 
Medal Certificate for best floribund 
Bronze Medal Certificate for secoi 
best group of three hybrid teas and 2i 
Bronze Medal Certificate for secoi, 
best floribunda. 

Show Chairman is Henry Conraj 
co-chairman, Clyde E. Learned. 

Opening the show, the ribbon w* 
be cut at 1:30 P.M., Sunday, June 2 
Doors close at 5:30 P.M. The w^ 
come mat is out for all to visit ai| 
enjoy the 13th annual Denver Ro» 
Society Show. Make it your lucky da 


——^—— 

Roses Spectacular! Attend the Denver Rose Show on June 25. See the 19t 

All-America Rose Selections in Living Color. 


FOR A COMPLETE SELECTION OF NURSERY STOCK, 
PERENNIALS AND BEDDING PLANTS 


Come to ... . 

CREATIVE GARDENS 


BALLED AND BURLAPPED EVERGREEN AND SHADE TREES 
ALL SHRUBS CONTAINER GROWN 

HA 2-1481 55th and Wadsworth BYPASS 


182 


Scoopd bu Scott 


'coops t>y 

Mrs. John Scott 

The architect and sculptor work in space, while the landscape and abstract 
fral designer create an illusion of space. Floral design is influenced by the 
lime’s architectural lines, its simplicity of structure and its broad, unrelieved 
bill spaces which often consist of glass and tends to project the four walls into 
I surrounding yard. There is, then, an apparent lack of partitions which pro- 
It the home into an outdoor living room. Lighting emphasizes shadows and 
bitpes. Colors are earthy and forceful and advanced toward creating “atmos- 
Isre”. Floral design has advanced, too, and its name is abstract. 

I Abstractists are of the opinion that recognizable images should be left to 
atographers, or those with little or no imagination. Imagination and origi- 
ity are close'kin, whether in landscape or floral design. If you’re opposed to 
|s abstract “stuff” parading as art, cheer up! We all loathe to change our old 
U-worn habits, including mental and emotional. 

And abstract is an emotional experience. Even the viewer, or public at a 
vver show, must get out of the old groove, and bestir himself to “getting with” 
at the designer had in mind. The term is “audience participation”. You’re 
ticipating when you think “I don’t like it.” It moved you, even if the re¬ 
gion was unpleasant. Perhaps, if you tried harder to understand the floral 
IiignerV personality, plus her originality, plus her design, you’d change your 
nking. Abstract is mood in form. 

Form, shape, line, color, texture and space relationships are stressed in 
;tract. Contrasts are ever present. Form may be geometric or not; shape, 
ind vs. square, etc.; line, vertical vs. horizontal, with the oblique and zigzag 
(pular; color, light vs. dark; red vs. green, etc.; texture, smooth vs. rough, etc.; 
Sices are not meaningless voids but important areas of design. All elements 
ft; placed to give direction to design. Abstract is going places, not sitting pretty. 

Nature, as such, is of minor importance. Familiar plant materials (if you 
ci’t come by some exotics) are used in unfamiliar ways, with a little going 
Bong way. The container has come into its own and may be more important 
;ign-wise than the plant materials. The focal point may be missing. Mechan- 
may be a part of the design and show and the colors are apt to clash. There 


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183 


I 


is segregation everywhere. If contemporary floral designs were a dream, a 
stract is a nightmare, because the one was passive, the other is active. 

Abstract does not need to always be angular. For instance, “love” mig 
be portrayed with an upright spiral, not a spear, even if Cupid did have a dc 
or two. But “Love” certainly wouldn’t be a mass design of sweetheart ros 
with an alabaster figurine of a nude nymph. This latter belongs with the “peri< 
pieces” not the space projects. With a little revision of thinking, abstract is n 
only “emotionally stimulating, but intellectually satisfying” to quote Emma ] 
Cyphers, author of diverse digests on design. 

Another authority, Mrs. W. H. Barton, tells how abstract is judge 
design, which gives form to feeling, is 25 points; interpretation (recall “love 
which flowers in June) another 25 points; distinction, that handling of materi; 
thought of in connection with originality, 25 points again, and of course, on 
inality, which has to do with the concept or “thinking out” of the arrangeme 
in the first place. Notice that each of these, design, interpretation, distincti? 
and originality rate 25 points equally. 

Whatever our idea of abstract may be, it usually doesn’t include the mobi 
and stabile, both products of the space age, stimulating movement in the cat 
of the stabile, and often actual action with the mobile when a little air’s in mj 
tion. Mrs. Barton differentiates between them. “The stabile arises into spa} 
and gives the illusion that is is as free as the mobile.” The stabile is anchor? 
to a base, while the mobile hangs in space. The mobile has made much progre 
since Alexander Calder conceived it in the 1930’s. Both are naturals for ti 

r 

abstract designer. 

The mobile is seldom seen in shows, due probably to staging limitation 
But, it is very useful in the home where the “anyplace” decoration is suitat, 
and space is a premium. Placements might include: a window recess, an op’ 
compartment, a space made by removable shelves, or a breakfast nook. 

Mrs. Barton conforms to the abstract judging, already given, with a min 
change in point placement. Both the mobile and stabile are allotted 30 poirt 1 
for design and relationship of component parts, with distinction and original! 
rating 20 points each. 

Abstract can be fascinating. Why not try these timely trends? 

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184 


NOW IS THE TIME 
TO PRUNE 
SARLY-FLOWERING 
SHRUBS 


Moras L. Shubert 


Many people ask the horticultur- 
s when it is time to prune this or 
it tree or shrub. For most plants, 
Beardless of species, the answer is 
prune when your tools are sharp, and 
|en you have the urge”. But if you 
i|nt to maintain your lilacs, forsyth- 
, spireas, and any other species 
lilt blooms early in the season so 
I it you will get a maximum amount 
I flowering wood each year, prune 
1m as soon as the flowers are fin- 
fed. This will give the bush a chance 
t set a good crop of flower buds for 
I: next year. Did you know that 
■pry lilac cluster you saw bloom this 
isfing was already formed last fall and 
ckaged in the bud all winter? 

How to prune? There are only a 
rf;|v steps to keep constantly in mind 
ven pruning a shrub, so learn them 
fed let them guide you when you take 
lining shears in hand and go to 
\ rk. 

I Remove all dead and broken 
branches first so that you can see 
i better what remains to be done. 


^ If it is an old bush, take out a 
I few of the oldest stems completely 
and let newer ones take their place. 
This keeps the “average age” of 
the bush the same year after year, 
and it will always be productive. 

1 Hide all pruning cuts, so far as 


possible, by cutting back the too- 
long stems to lateral branches. Re¬ 
member that a good job of prun¬ 
ing is one that does not show! 

4. Do not over-prune, but keep back¬ 
ing off and checking your progress. 
Many people get carried away by 
their enjoyment of this pleasant 
activity and by the sound of the 
pruning shears. Just keep in mind 
that there is still the job of getting 
rid of the material you remove, so 
do not make too big a pile. 

After the pruning is finished, and it 
is usually not necessary to paint prun¬ 
ing wounds on shrubs, there is still one 
more thing that you may need to do. 
Did you discover aphis, or other in¬ 
sects, while working? If it was a snow¬ 
ball, you surely must have seen some 
of those “plant lice” that thrive on the 
tender new stems. Do not delay spray¬ 
ing with a suitable insecticide, as these 
pests will deform the new growth. 

Another item that may be worth 
mentioning now is to suggest that min¬ 
eral fertilizer, rich in phosphorus, be 
worked in around the shrubs. A large 
lilac bush can use a pound or two of 
superphosphate lightly forked into the 
soil then watered very thoroughly. A 
so-called “balanced” fertilizer can also 
be used the same way. 


185 

i 


THE W. W. WILMORE NURSERIES - 
COLORADO’S OLDEST 


and redent 


W. W. WILMORE SCOTT WILMORE 

1E361 - 1950 1 B 9 5 - 


"One of the most interesting places to visit around Denver is the flowt 
gardens of W. W. Wilmore, in Wheat Ridge. By those who have been out thei 
it is claimed to be the finest sight of the kind that they have ever witnessed i 
their lives. . . . A few days ago a reporter for the Times went out to Mr. Wi 
more's gardens to investigate, and at once came to the conclusion that th 
statement was in no wise overdrawn when it is said that it is the finest colief 

tion of Dahlias in the United States . The gardens are situated about t wf 

miles west of Elitch's garden." 

Six years before the above article appeared in the Denver Times (Oct. < 
1892) W. W. Wilmore purchased 10 acres of ground at the corner of Wad, : 
worth Avenue and Prospect (now called West 38th Avenue) and founds 
Colorado’s oldest nursery. Mr. Wilmore started growing dahlias as a hobh 
in 1883 in connection with his other business, fruit growing. He was so succesi 
ful as an amateur grower that he “turned professional” and sold his first con 
mercial crop in 1886. This latter date is the date he always used whenever 1 
referred to the establishment of the W. W. Wilmore Nurseries. 

Since W. W. Wilmore’s first and great love was dahlias, the firm operate 
almost exclusively as a dahlia nursery and farm from its founding until short 
after World War I. During this time W. W. Wilmore achieved national reco;- 
nition as one of the nation’s outstanding dahlia hybridizers. Over 400 ne> 
varieties were originated at his Wheat Ridge nursery. 

After World War I, two of his sons (Scott and Charles) who had previous^ 
joined him in the nursery venture, helped him expand his nursery list. W. v 
Wilmore Nurseries soon became well known not only for its dahlias but also fir 
its complete line of landscaping plant material. The business continued to e 
pand under the leadership of Scott and Charles who operated the nursery as; 
partnership for a number of years. This partnership was dissolved in 1932, ar 
from that date the W. W. Wilmore Nurseries has been owned and operated l 
Scott Wilmore and his wife, Ruth. Charles Wilmore then established tl 
Green Bowers Nursery located at South Colorado Blvd. and East Expositic 
Avenue. 

Without losing his love for dahlias and other “bulbs,” Scott Wilmore w* 
attracted to the challenge of complete landscaping. He continued to experime; 
with new varieties of evergreens, trees, shrubs, and roses until today his nursej 
offers the most extensive list of plant material available in the Rocky Mounta 


186 


gion. This plant research is a continuous process with 10 or 20 new plants 
>n trial” at all times in Ruth and Scott’s yard. 

One of the main areas of experimentation being conducted at the present 
ne by Ruth and Scott concerns broadleaved evergreens. More than 80 varie- 
*s of broadleaves have been tested by them over the past 7 years. They were 
strumental in helping to introduce Pyracantha, Mahonia, and several members 
the Euonymus family into Colorado. The pioneering in this field is one of 
e outstanding contributions to Colorado horticulture made by this successful 
isband and wife team. 


ORE’S 
Dahlias « « » 


DakHa Socialist 

fyrfXJ V O fJi> 

* Dttmr. < 


X'-- , - -.-X. 


1893 


1900 


As Denver and its suburbs have grown, so has W. W. Wilmore Nurseries. 
■om its beginning as a one-man operation 75 years ago, it has grown in size 
itil it now has a spring season payroll of 50 employees plus 15 landscape 
signers. All of this has been made possible by its loyal customer list of over 
300 Denver area families. 

Through the years, Ruth and Scott Wilmore have tried to do more than just 
ild a large respected nursery business. They probably are equally as well 
own for their many contributions of both money and time to any organization 
group interested in promoting horticulture in the Rocky Mountain area. They 
ve developed numerous free educational services for their customers, and 
ve been equally generous with their experience and knowledge to all Colo- 
ioans, old and new. 

The Green Thumb congratulates and salutes W. W. Wilmore Nurseries for 
75 years of service to the Denver area. 


n 


Preserve the Health and Beauty of Your Trees With Swingle Care 

SWINGLE 

TREE SURGEONS 


620 SOUTH DAHLIA 


DE 3-4417 


FR 7-8123 


1 


187 


PLANT PROFILES 

George W. Kelly 


PTELEA TRIFOLIATA 


HOPTREE 

The Hoptree or Waferash, Ptelea 
irifoliata, is an interesting large shrub 
with a distinctive character all its own. 
In general, it seldom attains a height 
over 8 feet tall in this area. It is rather 
loose in habit and perfectly hardy. Its 
leaves are distinctively three parted 
and a dark, glossy green. The clusters 
of round hop-like fruits are a light 
green which gives a pleasant contrast 
with the leaves, almost like a head of 
llowers. Another distinctive character 
of this shrub is the odor of the leaves 
when crushed. To some the odor is 
hop-like, while to others it is more of 
a mild skunky odor. In any case the 
odor is only apparent when the leaves 
are bruised so one can enjoy it or not 
as they please. The species, P. trifoli- 
ata that is most generally in cultiva¬ 
tion, is native in places throughout 
the eastern United States. If collected 
in the southern part of its range it may 
not be completely hardy when planted 
here, but most nurseries have speci¬ 
mens from more northern locations. 
There is a native Ptelea in Colorado, 
Ptelea baldwinii, growing quite com¬ 
monly in the vicinity of the upper 


FONTANESIA FORTUNEI 


Arkansas River. This has never be<; 
introduced to the ornamental trade j 
any extent, but should be, because j 
has a much lighter character than tl 
eastern species. 

Specimens of this interesting shri 
may be found occasionally in some 
our older parks, planted by some eai 
plant enthusiast, who didn’t know thi 
it wasn’t supposed to grow here. 

FONTANESIA 

Fontanesia fortunei is a compar 
tively unknown shrub here yet it h 
qualities which should make it qui 
useful in this area. As far as we knc 
it has not acquired any common nan 
It is a rather tall, slim shrub somewh 
like a bush honeysuckle. Its leaves a 
willow-like, which, with its uprig 
habit, give it an almost bamboo-lil 
appearance. This could be very usef 
with the recent interest in Japane 
gardens. 

The plant is perfectly hardy in t 
Denver area and grows rather rapid! 
The flowers and fruits are inconspic 
ous but are not necessary to make t! 
a valuable shrub for certain locatior 


188 


D,'lie 1961 2), 


LJen v 


A carpet of color best describes the continuous display of crocus, tulips, 
rcissus and hyacinths that have been blooming in the bulb garden of the 
mver Botanic Gardens at 909 York Street. The first “splash” of color, of 
iurse, were the crocus ranging in color from brilliant yellow, pure white to 
; delicately variegated blue and white. As early as March 20 the first tulip 
riety (Water Lily Tulip) was in bloom despite frequent snows and cold nights. 
) sooner had the Water Lily Tulips dropped their petals than the early Red 
nperor and the very showy and short stemmed Peacock Tulips displayed their 
lor. The brilliant red of the Red Emperor seemed to dominate the scene for 
jfew days but was soon lost in the splendor of other early single tulips such 
the bright red Princeps followed by the vivid yellow of Ballona. The yellow 
Ballona was even more intensified by the pale-pink background of the stone 
ill on the east end of the bed. Adding to the yellow color scheme were the 
merous varieties of narcissus providing a multitude of yellow-to-cream hues. 

Soon our attention was drawn away from the yellow of Ballona and of the 
rcissus with the blooming of the Darwin hybrids such as the bright reds of 
neral Eisenhower, Dover and Oxford. At the same time the early double 
lips came into full bloom. Attracting considerable attention were the double, 
jriegated rose and white Gerbrand Kieft bordered by the creamy white double 
hunt Tacoma nlanted in a triangle near the southeast entrance to the Gardens. 


EARLY, YELLOW, SINGLE TULIP — BALLONA 


(jier doubles included varieties such as the pure white Schoonord, the cerise- 
cjored Electra, the pure yellow Mr. Van der Hoef and the red-orange of Orange 
fjssau. To break the monotony of the solid-colored tulips there were several 
vliegated early single varieties including the yellow-orange and red, Prince 


Carnival, the red and yellow-striped Keizerskroon, the orange and red-blende 
Sunburst and the pink and white “candy stripe” of Ibis. 

To continue the colorful display were the somewhat later Lily-Floweret 
Tulips ranging in color from deep red, lavender and pink to yellow and pur 
white. 

Several weeks after the early single varieties had reached their full glor) 
the long-stemmed Darwin and Cottage Tulips added their multitude of colo 
along with the fancy Rembrandt, Fringed and Parrot Tulip varieties. 

I could go on and on naming the brilliant-colored tulips that were on displa . 
throughout the two and one-half month period of continuous color but it mus 1 
be seen to be appreciated. |l 

If you missed the bulb display this year, make a special note to yoursel 
to see it next year, but don’t wait until then to visit us. Soon the petunia displa i 
will be in color, and, of course, so will our roses. 


Outdoor Livingroom? Take the Terrace and Garden Tour June 28. 


You Are Invited to Attend the .... 

2) enuer !Z,u Si 


ow 


Sunday, June 25, 1961 — 1:30 P.M. to 5:30 P.M. 

at the 

FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF DENVER 

17th and Welton Streets 

Come See Our Show — We Are Growing Roses for Fun 
THE DENVER ROSE SOCIETY 


190 


WILMORE NURSERIES 


^ Diamond Jubilee ^ 

v ROSE FESTIVAL v 


IT'S FREE! SEE COLORFUL PANORAMA OF MORE 
THAN 7,000 CONTAINER-GROWN ROSES IN 
BLOOM! 100 VARIETIES! AWARD WINNERS! 


garden 

SHOP 

You'll find every co " ce ' V ' 
able gening require- 
men! ie our complete 

stock of supplier- Open 
7:30 e.m.-6 P-m- Monday 
through Friday. 8 ‘ 5 Sih,r ‘ 
days and Sundays. 


PRIZES 

50 Diamond Jubilee roses 
to be given away FREE! 

REGISTER! 

FREE! GIFTS 

with purchases! Register! 

HOURS: 8 AM. TO 5 P.M. 


U. S. POSTAGE 


BLK RT 


DENVER BOTANIC GARDENS 


PAID 


909 YORK STREET 


DENVER 6, COLORADO 


Permit No. 205 
Denver, Colorado 


DO NOT FOLD 


POSTMASTER: FORM 3547 REQUESTED 


DON'T FORGET THE DENVER ROSE SHOW AT THE FIRST NATIONAL 
BANK OF DENVER, JUNE 25 AND THE TERRACE AND GARDEN 
TOUR SPONSORED BY THE GARDEN CLUB OF DENVER, JUNE 28. 


COME OUT AND COMPARE BUY NOW! 

OUR QUALITY ROSES 

DENVER'S LARGEST SELECTION 


OF CONTAINER-GROWN ROSES 


READY TO PLANT IN YOUR GARDEN 

FOR IMMEDIATE COLOR 


LAMEDA ERY, Inc 


Denver's Garden Center 

2645 W. Alameda Ave. 


Write or call for 
free catalogue 

WE 5-3528 


W 1 


Magazine for Rocky Mountain Gardeners 


IONIZING 

WITH 

iC IN JAMES 
ge 203 


LcGWOOD 
, vRDENS 

ge 209 

Sr 

I 


I 

| 

j 

ELDING A 
CL GARDEN 

I'ge 213 


LIST OF ADVERTISERS 


PAGE 

Alameda Nursery, Inc.Inside Front Cover 


Chambers, Lee — Tree Surgeon . 201 

Cottonwood Garden Shop . 204 

Creative Gardens . 207 

Denver Forestry and Landscape Co. 213 

Hammer, Lew, Inc. — Landscape Contractor .. 214 

Hydroponic Chemical Co. — Hyponex Plant 

Food . 221 


lliff Garden Nursery .Inside Back Cover 

Keesen, Anthony & Sons — Landscaping . 212 


PAGE 


Kroh Bros. Nurseries . 200 

Lawn Management Co. 196 

Marshall Nurseries . 215 

McCoy and Jensen — Evergreens . 222 

Schulhoff Arborist Service . 217 

South Denver Evergreen Nursery . 205 

Swingle Tree Surgeons ..211, 220 

Van Wyk, John — Landscaping . 213 


Wilmore, W. W., Nurseries Inc. ..Inside Back Cover 


COME OUT AND COMPARE BUY NOW! 

OUR QUALITY ROSES 

DENVER'S LARGEST SELECTION 

OF CONTAINER-GROWN ROSES 


READY TO PLANT IN YOUR GARDEN 

FOR IMMEDIATE COLOR 


./ 


LAMEDA 


URSERY, Inc. 


Denver's Garden Center 

2645 W. Alameda Ave. 


Write or call for 
free catalogue 

WE 5-3528 


JULY 


Vol. 18 
No. 6 

i 

EDITORIAL 

COMMITTEE 

M. Walter Pesman, 
Chairman 

Julia Andrews 

Mrs. Alexander Barbour 

Mrs. William Crisp 

Dr. A. C. Hildreth 

Fred R. Johnson 

Mrs. J. V. Petersen 

Mrs. John Scott 

Dr. Moras Shubert 

Mrs. James P. Steele, Jr. 

Mrs. Edmund Wallace 

Dr. Helen Marsh Zeiner 

Patrick Gallavan 

Mr. Everett Long 

Mrs. Everett Long 

Dr. James R. Feucht, 
Editor 


~fha (jteen ~Th umlt 

To conduct research on plants, both native and exotic, in 
varied plant zones of our region, to evaluate their economic, 
medicinal and horticultural potentials. 

To coordinate the knowledge and experience of botanists, 
horticulturists and gardeners. 

To educate the public in the best use of horticultural 
materials. 

To maintain a large collection of plant species and varieties 
for study and display. 


INDEX 


TITLE PAGE 

Cclendar of Events . 196 

Notes and Notices . 197 

Gardening with Colorado Wildings V, Ruth A. Nelson .. 199 

Pete Ponders . 201 

Botanizing with Edwin James, Louisa W. Arps . 203 

Exotics of Colorado, Helen M. Zeiner . 208 

Longwood Gardens, Violet K. Thomas . 209 

Building a Rock Garden, James R. Feucht . 213 

You Probably Have a Chalk Garden, M. Walter Pesman .. 218 

Scoops by Scott, Mrs. John Scott . 219 

What is Your Botanic Gardens Doing? . 221 


SENT FREE TO ALL MEMBERS OF THE ORGANIZATION. 
REGULAR MEMBERSHIP, $5.00; PARTICIPATING, $10.00; 
SUPPORTING, $25.00; CONTRIBUTING, $50.00; SUSTAIN¬ 
ING, $100.00. 

Copyright 1961 

DENVER BOTANIC GARDENS, INC. 

k 

A non-profit, privately financed Organization 

EA 2-9656 MA 3-1133, Ext. 428 

909 YORK ST. DENVER 6, COLORADO 


Every Saturday Morning—9:10 a.m. 
KLZ Radio. Various gardening 
Topics by Herbert Gundell, Denver 
County Agent. 

Every Saturday Afternoon—4:30 p.m. 
KLZ-TV Channel 7, Gardening 
Program by Herbert Gundell. 

Third Sunday every month—Colorado 
Cactophiles at members’ homes. 
Call WE 4-1506. 

At Botanic Gardens House 909 York 

July 3—9:30 a.m. Junior Committee 
July 5—7:30 p.m. Botany Club 
July 6—7:45 p.m. Orchid Society 
July 10—10:00 a.m. Judges’ Council 

July 11—10:00 a.m. Herbarium Study 
Group 

4:00 p.m.—Citizens Park & Shade 
Tree Committee 

7:30 p.m.—Evergreen Garden Club 

8:00 p.m.—Tree Class, Dr. A. C. Hil¬ 
dreth. 

July 12—7:30 p.m.—Landscape 
Contractors 

July 13—2:00 p.m. Editorial Com¬ 
mittee 

July 17—4:30 p.m. Botanic Gardens 
Board 

July 18—8:00 p.m. Tree Class. Dr. 
A. C. Hildreth 

July 19—9:30 a.m. “Fun with Flow¬ 
ers” Workshop 


July 26—12:30 p.m. Sunbonnet Gl- 
den Club, Luncheon Meeting. 
7:30 p.m. Landscape Contractors! 

August 1—8:00 p.m. Tree Class. II 
Moras Shubert 

August 2—7:30 p.m. Botany Club; 

August 3—7:45 p.m. Orchid Socie' 

August 7—9:30 a.m. Botanic Garde, 
Jr. Committee 

August 9—7:30 p.m. Landscape ex¬ 
tractors 

August 11 —10:30 a.m. Park HI 
Garden Club. Tour, Luncheon. I. 
Hildreth 

August 12—Afternoon. Unesco P- 
nic. Dr. Hildreth 

August 14—10:00 a.m. Judges’ Cou¬ 
ch 

August 15 — 8:00 p.m. Tree Cla, 
Dr. Moras Shubert. 

August 16 — 9:30 a.m. “Fun wn 
Flowers” Workshop 

August 23 — 7:30 p.m. Landsca:! 
Contractors 

September 4—9:30 a.m. Botanic G; 
dens Junior Committee 

September 5—8:00 p.m. Tree Cla.! 
Dr. A. C. Hildreth 

September 6—7:30 p.m. Botany Clu. 

September 7—7:45 p.m. Orchid S- 
ciety. 

September 8 — 9:30 a.m. Southei 
Hills Garden Club 


Your Lawn Problems Become Ours .... 

When You Call .... 

LAWN MANAGEMENT COMPANY 

WE 5-5938 

Call Today for Complete Lawn Service 
L. David Engholm, Horticulturist 

196 


NOTES AND NOTICES 

j AUGUST AND SEPTEMBER ISSUES TO BE COMBINED — The 
aigust and September issues of The Green Thumb will be combined into one 
sue which will reach the members in late August or early September. 

TULIP TREES IN DENVER—In response to an article in the June, 1961 
sue of The Green Thumb, “Exotics of Colorado—The Tulip Tree” by Dr. 
lelen M. Zeiner, Mrs. May McCallister of 2511 Irving Street and Mrs. J. G. 
foMann of 2649 So. Wadsworth have reported that they have tulip trees grow- 
lg on their property. Mrs. McCallister has two trees which were planted in 
931 and usually bloom each June. Mrs. McMann’s tree is only about 12 
ears old and has not bloomed yet. 

BOOKS AND BOOKLETS FOR SALE — The following books and 
ooklets may be purchased in the office at Botanic Gardens House, 909 York 


treet: 

around the Seasons by S. R. DeBoer. $1.00 

leet the Natives by M. Walter Pesman.spiral binding 3.60 

regular binding 3.00 

fountain Wild Flowers, a museum pictorial. 1.25 

’olorado Evergreens by Robert E. More. 2.50 

low to Grow Good Gardens in the Sunshine States by George Kelly.... 

spiral binding 3.25 
regular binding 3.00 

aga of a Forest Ranger by Len Shoemaker. 5.00 

'he Secret of the Green Thumb by Henry and Rebecca Northen. 5.00 

wig Key (Identification of trees and shrubs in winter) by William Hariow 0.60 

ruit Key (Identification of plants by their fruit) by William Harlow.... 0.60 

Wiat Tree is This by the Denver City & County. 0.25 

iature Games by Nesbit... 0.60 


ARTICLES OF LASTING INTEREST — In past issues of The Green 
'humb are several articles of interest to today’s gardener. Copies may be ob- 
ained from Mrs. Helen M. Vincent at Botanic Gardens House. Among 
ach articles are: Lilacs for Colorado by Milton J. Keegan. The Green Thumb, 
ol. 1, number 7, December, 1944. Beautifully illustrated. Price—10 cents, 
lowers and Gardens of the Central City Region. A well illustrated issue by 
everal authors. The Green Thumb, vol. 3, number 4, July-August, 1946. 

I 'rice—50 cents. Hawthorns by M. Walter Pesman. The Green Thumb, vol. 7, 
umber 5. May, 1950. A descriptive article and completely illustrated. Price— 
0 cents. 

DENVER BOTANIC GARDENS NOTE PAPER AVAILABLE—Send 
our personal notes to your friends on our new note paper with Botanic Gardens 
louse etched on the front. Available from Mrs. Vincent, Botanic Gardens 
louse, at $1.00 per box. 

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS—To date we have received only one 
uestion through the mail for the “Questions and Answers” column. The single 
uestion came from A. H. MacAndrews of Syracuse, New York and was 
nswered by return mail. This practice will be followed until we have a 
ifficient number of questions to print a column in The Green Thumb. 
Certainly, many of you readers have gardening questions that you would 
ke to have answered and would be of interest to other readers. Send your 
uestions now to Mrs. J. V. “Pete” Petersen, 1550 Ridge Rd., Littleton, 
'olorado. Questions considered of general interest to The Green Thumb 
iaders will be answered in a future issue. 


197 


FIELD TRIP TO MT. GOLIATH — A field trip to Denver Botaic 
Gardens, Mt. Goliath Alpine Garden will be made on August 11. Cost - 
$2.00 per person to cover bus fare. Send your check for reservations to As. 
Harlan Cluphf, 3888 So. Grant St., Englewood. Deadline August 3. Brinja 
picnic lunch. 


FIESTA - PLANT AUCTION 


A GREAT SUCCESS 

The Fiesta and Plant Auction held May 20 and 21 was a great sucdis 
despite intermittent rains and cool temperatures. Net returns from the two-cy 
affair totalled $4232.62. We express our sincere appreciation for the effc s 
of all those named below for their help in making this event a success. 


THE FIESTA COMMITTEE 


Mrs. Ed. Honnen, Chairman 
Mrs. James Rae Arneill 
Mrs. Charles O. Arnold 
Mrs. Alexander Barbour 
Mrs. Kay Brewster 
Mrs. Francis Brown 
Mrs. Mackintosh Brown 
Mrs. Glenn Clayton 
Mrs. Henry Conrad 
Mrs. William Crisp 


Mrs. Richard M. Davis 
Mrs. George Garrey 
Mrs. Jess Gibson 
Mrs. Schuyler Grey 
Mrs. Cass Herrington 
Dr. A. C. Hildreth 
Mrs. E. R. Kalmbach 
Mrs. Hugh Kingery 
Mr. & Mrs. Clyde Learned 
Mrs. Alonzo Lilly 


Mrs. Frank McLister 
Mrs. G. B. Morrison 
Mrs. John Newman 
Mrs. C. O. Parker 
Mrs. Donald E. Thomas 
Mrs. Edmund Wallace 
Mrs. James Waring 
Mrs. Kernan Weckbaugh 
Miss Becky Wood 
Mrs. Harold Writer 


AUCTIONEERS 

Patrick J. Gallavan — Herbert Gundell 

DONORS 


Alameda Nursery, Inc. 

Gene Amole 
Associated Nurseries 
Barteldes Seed Co. 

Dr. A. J. Beagler 
Mrs. N. E. Beeshaar 
Cheesman Park Garden Club 
Mrs. Sam Childs 
Civic Garden Club 
Mr. Coryell 

Cottonwood Garden Shop 
Country Fair 
Creative Gardens 
Denver-U. S. National Bank 
Mrs. Montgomery Dorsey 
Mr. & Mrs. John Evans 
Floral Art Study Club 
Mrs. Frank B. Freyer 
Gem Garden Shop 
Green Bowers Nursery 
Green Thumb Garden Club 
William Gunesch 


Hannigan Floral 
Happy Canyon Garden Club 
Harveyette Harvesters Garden 
Club 

Hearts & Flowers Garden Club 
Mrs. Joseph Hodges 
Janrus Gardens 

Lakes O'Bow-Mar Garden Club 
Mrs. Larsen 

Luby's Lakeside Cafeteria 
Mrs. John MacKenzie 
Mrs. Helen McCaulley 
(Haenselman's Flowers, 
Boulder) 

McCoy & Jensen Nursery 
Mrs. Samuel McMurtrie 
Marsha'I Nurseries 
Morning Belles Garden Club 
Mrs. Hudson Moore, Jr. 
Mountain View Garden Club 
Mrs. John Newman 
Northern Nursery 


Mrs. J. Churchill OWen 
Mrs. Jim Owen 
Park Floral Co. 

Pedal Pushers Garden Club 
Mrs. Ralph O. Reid 
Mrs. Alice Reiss (Colo. Sprgs.)j 
Mrs. Arthur Rippey 
Rocky Mountain Seed Co. 

Mrs. Arthur Rydstrom 
Mrs. Jan Schoo 
Sloan's Lake Garden Club 
Tedo Spano Bedding Plants 
Suburban Garden Club 
Mrs. Thomas Taplin 
Tower Nursery 

University Park Garden Club ! 

Anne Weckbaugh 

Mrs. John We'born 

Western Evergreens 

Wheat Ridge Nursery 

Mrs. P. D. Whitaker 

W. W. Wilmore Nurseries, Inc! 


OTHER VOLUNTEERS 

Rr ,^ eS p da + meS p H A- c Bel, °w s . Jr ., Whitman Best, Wilson C. Birkenmayer, Robert Bosworth, Jar|s 
Brown Peter Burnett, Sam But er, C. Ca'kins, Don Carney, J. V. Carroll, H. R. Catherwood JJ 
Chambers, R. L. Davis D D. DeNier James B. Doy'e, Charles Enos, M. Erickson, Ben Essig John Falk- 
berg, R. S Farrand William Fleischer. Keane Griffith, Herb Gundell, Eugene Harker Elaine Hav 
Pr a 0 H Pe p F 'i Wegner, Hazel 1 , Hl T James HoMister, Hardin Holmes, Paul Huntzicker, Wm. E. Jackson 8 
n' J u hn K’P n ' £ U x'i f< ? r P Jor T s - Ted Larsen, M. C. Larson, Lillian Love ; oy, Anthony Lucker VI 
McCullough, Newell McIntyre, Betty MacDougall, Robert Manning, Fritz Nagel, Francis 7 Newton ' A 
Nies, Nanrvne Osgood, Persis Owen. J. V. Peterson, Pat Peterson Ethel Petrick, John S PinkTton bS s 
Plummer Don Rut!,ss Arthur Rydstrom, C. P. Smith, Jr„ C'arence M. Stafford, B. K. Sweeney jn 
Swing e, Donald E. Thomas, McK-nley Thompson, Rose Tuggle, Ray Turnure. Jack Vickers Edward! 

DuHle and Q M?s S s B^ck/WoS” W " m ° re ' Kenneth Wi,more ' Charles Woo 4 Ed Wyatt and Miss Berji 

Rerht^H SrS | : nh^ IC, Rr Ar | nStr0 S 9 ' B ° b Bark ' e y' B ? b Berhtold ' John Bechto'd, LeMoine Bechtold, Maiji 
rPPiApi,!' J 30 j 1 ?. 9 '. Bagnar Bramberg, Lee Chambers, Wi'iiam Eiche, William Fleischer t 

Tpr, av c an ' H erb Gundell, Lew Hammer, Fred R. Johnson, Bill Lucking, Richard Martinez Chric Mor! 

and Y Dr°James' R S °Fe chf W# ^ Sinnamon ' Jim Torre s, Ed Vincent, Charles Wood and Dr.' a. C.'Hildr i 


Club. 


Denver Rose Society, Forest Hill Garden Club, Morning Belles Garden Club and Rose Bowl Garci' 


GARDENING 


at 

i 
1 

WITH 


COLORADO 

I 

J 

I WILDINGS V 

0 

Ruth Ashton Nelson 

The Medium-sized 

j This group includes numerous spe- 
ies of Rocky Mountain shrubs which 
re suitable for a variety of uses and 
locations. Some are easily grown 
nder conventional garden conditions, 
thers are best used where naturalistic, 
ry garden effects are desired. Only 
few can be described here. 

Of the first group, the showiest and 
lost generally useful is the Boulder 
Uspberry, or Thimbleberry, Rubus 
teliciosus, a member of the rose 
imily. Under garden conditions this 
rows into a symmetrical shrub, 4 to 
1 feet tall. In mid May its thornless, 
rching branches become festooned 
ith pure white, rose-like, single 
owers, IV 2 to 2 inches in diameter, 
h spite of its name the berries are 
isipid but relished by the birds, 
seedlings are always appearing in my 
jarden. I transplant these into a 
jursery bed where they grow rapidly 
jnd are ready to bloom when two or 
jiree years old. It retains its attrac- 
jveness better than some other natives 
'nder regular garden watering. It 
lould have full sun. 

1 * 
Apache Plume, Fallugia paradoxa, 

another member of the Rose family 
nd a very useful and attractive shrub 


and Small Shrubs 

in the garden. Its white flowers are 
somewhat similar to those of the 
Boulder Raspberry but smaller, about 
1 inch in diameter. They stand away 
from the finely cut foliage on slender, 
inch-long stalks. It puts on a burst 
of bloom in early June and then con¬ 
tinues to show a few flowers all through 
the summer. It has a striking appear¬ 
ance in fruit because each bloom 
ripens into a tuft of rose-tinged, plume¬ 
tailed achenes similar to Clematis 
fruits. The leaves of Apache Plume 
are persistent and almost evergreen. 
Its bark is white. It requires sun and 
a well drained soil kept moderately dry. 
It is easily propagated by layering. 

Shrubby Cinquefoil, Potentilla 
fruticosa, is another member of this 
family which thrives and seeds itself 
freely in a sunny garden although it 
does not quite attain the same beauty 
which it has under the natural con¬ 
ditions at and above timberline. It is 
usually between 1 and 2 feet tall and 
this small size makes it particularly 
valuable. In early summer it will be 
covered with half-inch broad, bright 
yellow flowers. A few blooms occur 
scatteringly throughout the summer. 
In August the foliage has a tendency 
to look rusty from the effects of red 


Boulder Raspberry Blooming in the Author's Gar¬ 
den. 


spider but it should be possible to 
control this by spraying. 

The Little-leaf Mock Orange, Phila- 
delphus microphyllus, is pleasing for 
its dainty, light green foliage, brown 
and white striped bark, and numerous, 
four-petaled white flowers. It is also 
valuable because it is fine textured 
and is easily kept within bounds where 
a small shrub, not over 2 to 3 feet 
tall, is desired. 

Our native Sumac, Rhus glabra, is 
easily grown and has some merit. It 
suckers but it will provide lush green 
foliage in summer, brilliant rose-red 
autumn color and pyramidal clusters 
of dark red, velvety berries in winter. 

For dry, gravelly situations as on 
mesas and foothills where many of 
the new homes are being built, the 
shrubs indigenous to these locations 
can be depended on to provide a 
naturalistic and appropriate setting. 
In general they are difficult to trans¬ 
plant successfully because of the dry, 
rocky soil in which they live but now 
that they can be obtained from nur¬ 
series in the Denver area, there is no 
reason for not using them. When once 
established they will give years of 
beauty with a minimum of maintenance 
cost. All of them are made more 
attractive by an occasional watering. 
Two or three good soakings during an 
ordinary Rocky Mountain summer 
should be enough. Too much water 
will cause them to become unsightly. 
One of the most drought resistant is 
our common Mountain Mahogany, 
Cercocarpus montanus. This has a 
small, dark green leaf and becomes 
covered with tiny flowers which de¬ 


velop seeds having feathery, cur d 
tails. It is an erect shrub, 3 to 8 i it 
tall. 1 

For a bright green effect in y 
situations there is nothing as satisf:- 
tory as the Three-leaf Sumac, Res 
trilobata. This is also known is 
Squawbush because the Indians u d 
it in basketry,—as Skunkbush beca-e 
the foliage has a strong odor, whiji, 
to me, is not at all like that of a sku 
—and Lemonade-berry because e 
red fruits are acid and can be u: d 
to flavor an acceptably refreshg 
drink. The height of this bush vais 
from 1 to 4 feet and may be paiy 
controlled by the amount of wa r 
given it. Its shiny, compound lea s 
turn beautiful shades of orange a;i! 
scarlet in autumn. 


Several of the gray-leaved shris 
such as the Sagebrushes, Artemii 
tridentata and A. jilifolia, and Rabl-' 
brushes, species of Chrysothamn ,\ 
are very handsome when grown s 
ornamentals. They must have full si 
and little water. The Rabbitbrush 1- 
comes covered with masses of gold 
yellow blossoms in late summer. 

For erosion control on banks all 
in washes there are some small nati>> 
which are very effective such as Wli 
Roses, Rosa, spp.; Sandcherry, Prun 1 
besseyi; Wolf berry or Buckbrush, Sy •] 
phoricarpos occidentalis; and Sno- 
berry, S. alba. The last two are or. 
satisfactory where they receive a go l j 
supply of underground moisture. 

For the question of appropriate a 
low cost-of-maintenance gardening 
the Rocky Mountain region, nati 
shrubs are one answer. 


In 

-r 

KROH BROS. NURSERIES 

Preferred Nursery Stock for the 
Rocky Mountain and Plains Regions 

ONE MILE NORTH OF LOVELAND HIGHWAY 287 
P. O. Box 536 Loveland, Colorado 

Drop Card for Our Current Catalog 


200 


•ear Pete, Dear Scratch, 


I saw a beautiful big scarlet lily-like 
ower under the pines in the foothills 
tSt July. What was the flower? Some¬ 
one told me it would die if I picked it. 
. it true that picking them will kill 
lem? 

Ivan Offelich 


How lucky you were! If the blos¬ 
som had purplish-black polka-dots, 
Wood Lily, Lillian umbellatum, was 
your treasure. 

Two authorities I questioned sug¬ 
gested foliage is necessary to mature 
new bulbs, and, of course, picking the 
blossom would eliminate formation of 
seed. Harold and Rhoda Roberts pic¬ 
ture Wood Lily in full color in their 
book “Colorado Wild Flowers” and 
warn that “picking the flower usually 
kills the bulb.” Perhaps other local 
botanists will report their findings. 

Mrs. William Crisp recalls that as 
early as 1925 the Colorado Nature 
Club listed wood lily among the six 
vanishing wild flowers in this area. 


Dear Thinkin’ Gal? 

By the time we move to our home 
at 8500 feet elevation each summer 
the iris, which grow so satisfactorily 
there, have begun to fade. Can you 


LEE CHAMBERS 

1594 SO. FOREST 
Complete Care and Maintenance 
of 

Trees, Shrubs and Evergreens 


SK 6-3366 


TREE SURGEON 

DENVER 20, COLORADO 

Custom Spraying 
Fully Licensed and Insured 


MEMBER 


201 


name some late iris to extend this 
colorful extravaganza? 

Extenda Bloom 

Dear Extenda, 

Since iris shows are limited to one 
spectacular a season a planting of late- 
late iris is definitely your solution. 

Everett Long, iris connoisseur, rec¬ 
ommends “Extravaganza,” cream 
standards with purple falls; “Love 
Story,” shell pink; and “Rose of Pic¬ 
ardy,” pink blend. 

Bertha Durfee, keeper of the bloom¬ 
ing records at Botanic Gardens, has 
found these to be late-performers: “As¬ 
pen Glow,” orange; “Rose Amethyst”; 
“Shiloh,” dark purple; “Cutie Pie,” 
fringed white to orchid to dark orchid; 
“Swan Ballet,” white; “June Mere¬ 
dith,” frilly pink; and “Night and 
Day,” very dark. She cautions that our 
unusually cold spring produced some 
unreliability in plant performance. 


WESTWARD HOET 


Dear Pete, 

We’re forming a garden club and 
find it hard to avoid duplication of 
name. Any ideas? 

Uname It 

Dear Nameless, 

With twelve garden clubs in the Lit¬ 
tleton area alone I can see that names 
are difficult to find. Garden calendars 
list the club represented by the ar¬ 
ranger. 


The monthly publication of ti 
Colorado Federation of Garden Cl 
lists member organizations. Refere 
to this list will eliminate duplicates? 
federated. 


This might seed a thought. 


Perhaps an idea will evolve frcli 
one of these: Metro-Mites, Creati; 
Gardeners, Flower Friends, L 
Grow, and Westward Hoe. 

Name it and you can have it! 


Our OhanLi 


To our many friends who helped to make our Silver Wedding Anniversa 
such a memorable occasion, we wish to extend our thanks. 

Our guest book showed that over 150 guests called. We enjoyed every mome 

of it. 

The Denver Botanic Rose Garden Fund will benefit from the proceeds of t 
silver offering. 


A beautiful double wedding ring arrangement featuring roses made and pr 
sented by Mrs. Ray Turnure was indeed the conversation of the day. 

We can't begin to express our thanks and gratitude. 

Vella & Henry Conrad 


202 


"View of the Insulated Table Lands at the Foot of the Rocky Mountains. 
From Edwin James: Account of an Expedition 


from Pittsburgh to the Rocky Mountains. 
Phil., 1922-23, vol. 3, Atlas 


Photo courtesy or 
Denver Public Library. 


Samuel Seymour, the first artist known to have seen the Colorado Rockies, painted this picture 
the lava-topped buttes near the present-day town of Larkspur. Seymour was hired as a land- 
ape artist to accompany Major Long's 1820 expedition. The expedition consisted of 22 men, 
i horses or mules and two dogs. Leading the march was Captain J. R. Bell, West Point graduate, 
companied by Joseph Bijeau, the French guide. Behind them, in two sections, stretched the rest 
the company. The scientists Dr. Edwin James and Mr. Thomas Say, assisted by the twenty-year 
d Titian Peale rode where they pleased. Mr. Say, later to become famous as an insect collector, 
as sick the whole summer but never complained. Perhaps the last horseman in the picture, he 
meath the beaver hat, is a self-portrait of the artist, an Englishman. 


BOTANIZING WITH 


Louisa Ward Arps 


In the summer of 1820 Dr. Edwin James, a twenty-three-year old physician- 
atanist, rode along the base of the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains from 
ongs Peak on the north to Pikes Peak on the south. The young man’s sharp 
'ack eyes missed few botanical specimens along the route. He must have dis- 
ounted a thousand times, and wandered miles afoot around nooning places 
id night camps, his tall frame bent double to pick up plants. These he carried 
ist with him to Dr. John Torrey who classified them by the “natural system”, 
1 historic milepost of American botany. 

Today, driving south from Denver on Highway 87, we can see much of 
r. James’ route and examples of some of the plants he collected. To do this 
s will park off the highway at six points between Denver and the U. S. Air 
irce Academy. We start our mileage at 0.0 where Highway 87 goes under 
ilorado Boulevard. 

STOP #1. 4.7 miles. (Park east of Paradise Valley Club, north of Belleview 
venue overpass). We are now looking at the Front Range of the Colorado 
ockies. The highest mountain to the north is Longs Peak (14,256 ft.), the 
ory of Rocky Mountain National Park. Major Long, after whom it was named, 
as the leader of the expedition to which Dr. James was attached. They first 
>hted Longs Peak on June 30, 1820 but did not try to near it. 


203 


West of us lies Mt. Evans, a great mass of mountains named for Govern* 
John Evans, founder of Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois, and * 
the University of Denver. The highest automobile road in the U. S. reach* 
almost to the top of Mt. Evans. On its side the Denver Botanic Gardens mail 
tains the Mt. Goliath area. 

North of Mt. Evans the next range of high mountains is the James Pec 
Range. This was named for Dr. Edwin James forty years after his journey 
Colorado by another physician-botanist, Dr. C. C. Parry. He spent summ 
after summer in the early 1860’s wandering on or near the James Peak rang 
His botanical enthusiasm was unbounded. He wrote postcards to every botani 
of his era, sending botanical specimens to Dr. John Torrey and Dr. Asa Gra; 
For these two fathers of American botany Dr. Parry named the two highest peal 
in the range—Grays Peak (14,270) and Torreys Peak (14,267). These ai 
hidden from us here by Mt. Evans, but can be seen from the Boulder road nort 
of Denver. Thanks to Dr. Parry other Front Range mountains are named afte 
early men of the biological sciences, such as Mt. Audubon and Mt. Engelmani 
Engelmann, a St. Louis botanist, is honored in the Engelmann spruce, Pice 
engelmanni. 


“The good Dr. Parry”, mountain-namer, had a peak named for him, to* 
southwest of James Peak. The next time we meet his name on a plant, as i 
Primula parryi, let us think of this Belleview where we saw many of the mour 
tains he loved and named. 


But Parry came late to Colorado. It was Dr. Edwin James who had tlj 
fun of being our first trained botanist. If we want to see one exact spot whei 
he botanized, use Pikes Peak at 12 o’clock and look toward 1:45 o’cloci i 
Here the South Platte River leaves the foothills, and here, on July 6, 1821 
Dr. James picked up the type specimen of the Rocky Mountain Maple, Act 
glabrum Torr. and the delicate-flowered Cranesbill, Geranium caespitosw 
James. Returning to camp in the evening, he lost his little tin box; the nei 
morning he kept the whole outfit waiting until seven o’clock while he went bacj 
to find it. 


As we proceed we see, right, the Ramo-Wooldridge plant, makers ( 
electronic instruments, and beyond, sprawling up a foothill, the Martin Plan 
makers of Titan missiles. Within a mile we cross Arapahoe Road, named ft 
Indians who hunted Buffaloes here. (From missiles to Indians in a mile! 
Later, left, are wheat-storage bins. Un-irrigated lands of the high plains produc 


We are continually experimenting with plants suitable for ROCK GARDENS. 
We have a large selection of the old-timers, new, unusual and native plants. 

Many are in pots ready to set out at any time. We also have mature plants in 
our own rock garden to show you what they may eventually look like. 

COTTONWOOD GARDEN SHOP 

George and Sue Kelly 

4849 So. Santa Fe Drive, Littleton PY 4-0430 


204 


luch wheat if the rains come; in drought years the fields blow away. Right, 
field of Yucca glauca, variously known as Adam’s Needle, Spanish Bayonet 
r Soapweed, fine for washing hair. 

STOP #2. 7.7 miles. (Pass the green sign that reads Castle Rock II, 
'olorado Springs 49, and park at the yellow curve sign). Cherry Creek Valley 
Ses to the east, now with farms watered by deep wells. On the skyline above 
le valley is a thick forest of Ponderosa pine. This growth extends south about 
fty miles. Now called the Black Forest, the goldrushers of 1859 knew it as 
he Pineries where they cut lumber for Denver cabins. The roads that descend 
-om the Pineries to the valley are the remnants of great swaths cut by the 
'agon wheels of the emigrants. These were the Smoky Hill routes from the 
’lissouri River towns. 


As we proceed, let us look at Happy Canyon, the gulch we immediately 
ross. Here are Broadleaf Cottonwoods, Populus sargenti, loved by Westerners. 
)n the plains they alone gave wood, shade and shelter from quick storms, hay 
wer and branches from which to hang horse thieves. In higher country, Dr. 
ames observed the Narrowleaf Cottonwood, Populus augustifolia, that looks 
lore like a cross between a willow and a cottonwood. Happy Canyon is a 
appy hunting ground for housewives who make jelly of wild plums, Primus 
mericana, and we can see Cliff Jamesia, Jamesia americana . We are soon in 
le scrub oak country. This growth covers many hills to our south, in places 
npenetrably thick. A common kind is named for John Gunnison, Quercus 
mnisoni Rydb, an explorer, less lucky than Dr. James, who was killed by 
idians in Utah in 1853. 


STOP #3. 10.3 miles. (Park beyond the Castle Rock city limit sign just 
cfore the bridge that crosses Plum Creek to our right). We are now in the valley 
f East Plum Creek, called Defile Creek by Dr. James. Castle Rock is on our 
ft, with the town of the same name below it. The rock has had other names, 
eologists call it Castle Rock conglomerate (or pudding stone) topping Dawson 
*kose. When Fremont passed here July 9, 1943, his hungry men, homesick for 
leir mothers’ cooking, called in Poundcake Rock. About here Fremont noted 
lue Flax, Linum lewisi and Scarlet Gilia, Gilia aggregata. 


To our right is a butte (pronounced beaut) topped with rhyolite. On 
ie top of this butte was a quarry for lava rock, the pink and gray stone used 
i many Denver buildings, notably Trinity Methodist Church at 19th and 
roadway. 

From here our road follows East Plum Creek (Dr. James followed West 
turn Creek) to the top of the Palmer Lake Divide. This Divide is a high plain 
iat stretches about forty miles east at right angles to the Front Range. It 
dlects thunderheads in the summer and blizzards in the winter often closing 
ighway 87. 

STOP #4. 10.3 miles. (Park opposite a white cairn on left of road.) 


SOUTH DENVER EVERGREEN NURSERY 

1534 SO. BROADWAY - EST. 1920 - SPruce 7-2350 


COMPLETE LANDSCAPING SERVICE — TREES, SHRUBS, EVERGREENS 
ROCK GARDEN PLANTS, LICHEN-COVERED ROCKS, WHITE AND ROSE QUARTZ 
COMPLETE SELECTION OF INSECTICIDES AND FUNGICIDES 


Straight ahead is Larkspur Butte, named for the flower, Delphinium nelsoM 
that makes the hills blue and cattlemen bluer, since Larkspur is poisonous jj 
cattle. Look at the Monkey Face in the rocks of Raspberry Butte (about! 
o’clock) before we drive on. 

We pass a picnic spot beneath Ponderosa pines, then we come to a rail 
of billboards that show that scenic Colorado has not joined the national crusaa 
to keep billboards 600 feet from highways. 

STOP #5. 4.3 miles. (Park before the entrance to Greenland Ranch). Til 
ranch, named by Colorado Springs’ most literary lady, Helen Hunt Jackson, datl 
back to September, 1875. Its first owner was Fred J. Salomon, Denver pione^j 
who made his fortune, not by prospecting, but by feeding prospectors. Frol 
this ranch he shipped carloads of potatoes, as did many dry land farms on t s 
Divide in the 1870’s. In 1895 a blight ended the potato crop. 

Please note Pikes Peak (14,110 ft.) straight ahead. In a few miles it W| 
disappear behind its foothills, to reappear at Colorado Springs where it riJ 
steeply 8,000 feet. Pikes Peak, like all the Front Range, is made of Precambril 
granite, meaning it is almost the oldest rock known. When it pushed up frcl 
the depths of the earth it pushed sediments lying on the bottom of an oceJ 
ahead of it. Remnants of these sediments are the red sandstones of the Bouldj 
Flatirons, Red Rocks west of Denver, the red and white “monuments” and til 
inspiring Garden of the Gods. 

The first American to leave any record of sighting Pikes Peak was ZebuL j 
Pike who failed to climb it in late November, 1806. He topped a much low;! 
mountain, south of Cheyenne Mountain. On July 14, 1820, Dr. Edwin Jamil 
stood on the top of Pikes Peak. He was the first man on record to stand abo j 
14,000 feet in the U.S.A. Dr. James could and did appreciate the flowers abo 
timberline, especially their intense colors. He wondered if the blue sky h; 
lent its color to the blue flowers. His collections included Alpine Chiming Belij 
Mertensia alpina, sweet-smelling Rock Jasmine, Androsace carinata, and Fail 
Primrose, Primula augustifolia. The twin-flowered snowlover that turns brovi 
when picked was named Chionophila jamesii. 

The first woman to climb Pikes Peak was Mrs. Holmes, in 1858. Sin 
then Pikes has had, successively, a trail, a carriage road, a cog railroad (sin 
1890) and an auto road (since 1916). 

As we proceed 5.9 miles, note how small the streams become but th< 
still flow north. At an altitude of over 7,000 feet we cross Palmer Lake Divid,; 
Still in the Foothills Zone, the trees are still Ponderosa Pines, but the stream 
start flowing south. 

STOP # 6. 5.9 miles. (Park beyond the sawmill in front of the green si^ 
that says Monument 3 A ). We approach the town of Monument. We can s< 
why it was so called—scattered between us and the green Rampart Range 
our right are isolated rocks that look like monuments. Turn your head to 
o’clock to see the most famous of these, the Elephant Rock. 

Near here Major Long’s men spent from 9:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. c 
July 11, 1820, and Dr. James went wild. “The botanist was at a loss which ne 
plant he would first take in hand.” One of the first surely must have been tl 
Colorado Columbine, Aquilegea coerulea. This, one of the most appropria 
Latin names, was suggested by Dr. James. Aquilegea means eagle, the columbir 
having spurs like an eagle’s. Coerulea means sky-blue. The Columbine w; 


206 


iiade the Colorado state flower in 1889. When Palmer Lake, a small town 
Id our right behind Elephant Rock, was Colorado’s first resort town, the narrow- 
! auged Denver and Rio Grande Railroad ran Sunday flower specials to it. 
All day everybody picked flowers, on the Chautauqua grounds, on the trail 
mown as the Winding Stair. In the late afternoon lovely ladies posed for 
photographs on the rear platform of the train, their outing skirts still white 
nd starched, their arms full of columbine, some with roots attached. In 1925 
he Colorado Legislature belatedly passed a law to halt the mass extermination 
f the state flower. Please do not pick the Columbine! 

We have just passed a sawmill to our right, reminiscent of the late 1860’s 
/hen General Palmer, then engineer for the Kansas Pacific, later founder of 
Colorado Springs, offered tq pay $1.00 for each railroad tie delivered to the town 
f Kit Carson near the Kansas border. On the Rampart Range men cut Douglas 
ir, Pseudotsuga taxifolia or even Colorado Blue Spruce, Pices pungens, pre¬ 
viously called Picea parryi. You can still see the naked chutes on the mountains 
own which they slid these treees. 

About 2 o’clock, just south of a large white “monument” are the green 
joofs of the Mt. Hevman Nurserv where, since 1907, the U. S. Forest Service 
as annually raised about two million evergreen trees. These are not sold, but 
applied for re-forestation or planting on public places. Each spring organizations 
Ike the Boy Scouts or the Colorado Mountain Club plant trees on bare hillsides. 

Before railroads crossed the Divide, Cheyenne and Arapahoe Indians 
lurdered isolated settlers who dared build houses on their great buffalo hunting 
round. At the McShane Ranch (out of sight below a red garage at about 
o’clock) a stone house was connected by underground passage to a circular 
hone fort. Here ranchers brought their families to “fort up” many times during 
865-1868. Part of the fort still stands. (Drive 5 miles to the entrance of the 
vir Force Academy.) 

When we turn into the Air Force Academy grounds, notice the small trees 
ewly planted from the Mt. Hermann Nursery. Of them Dr. Edwin James 
/ould have surely approved, even though he did burn acres of trees when he 
eglected to put out his camp fire on his way up to Pikes Peak. 

Editor's Note — For more information about Dr. Edwin James, read 
locky Mountain Naturalists, by Joseph Ewan, Chapter 2. Published by the 
Jniversity of Denver Press, 1950. 


FOR A COMPLETE SELECTION OF NURSERY STOCK, 

GARDEN PERENNIALS AND ROCK GARDEN PLANTS 

Come to ... . 

CREATIVE GARDENS 

EVERGREEN AND SHADE TREES 
ALL PLANTS CONTAINER GROWN 

HA 2-1481 • 55th and Wadsworth BYPASS 


207 


EXOTICS 

OF 

COLORADO 

r 

Helen Marsh Zeiner 


The beautiful regal lily, Lilium regale, can be found blooming in July ill 
many Denver gardens. This is one of the exotics of Colorado which has corq ] 
a long way from its original home. A native of western China, where it Wei 
found growing wild, the regal lily was brought to this country by the well-know 
plant explorer Wilson. Because of its beauty, its long period of bloom, and il 
relative hardiness, the regal lily has become one of our most treasure 
ornamentals. 


The large trumpet-shaped flowers are produced one to seven or more pe 
stalk. Each flower will be from four to six inches long and nearly as wide 
The petals are white and waxy, but with colored markings. On the inside c 
the flower they are bright yellow at the base, giving the flower a golden throa 
on the outside they are tinged with yellow or rose and have purple midrib: 
The anthers are reddish brown, contrasting beautifully with the gold and whit 
interior. In addition to its lovely bloom, the regal lily is also a delightful! 
fragrant lily. 

The beautiful blooms are set off against deep green foliage on stems whic 
grow four to six feet high. 

Regal lily likes sun, loamy soil, and moderate moisture after blooming 
The bulbs may be planted in either fall or spring, and should be set about nin 
to twelve inches deep. In Colorado the regal lily should be mulched to protec 
it from our late spring frosts. 

Diseases in lilies may give some trouble, but should not deter one fron 
including them in the garden. Buy healthy bulbs, and keep them separated fron 
other lilies. If they become diseased or die because of too much moisture ii 


the border, surely they are worth replacing as necessary. 

There are good books on lily culture available in Botanic Gardens library 
also Green Thumbs of September 1948 and July and August 1950 havi 
excellent articles on lilies. 


208 


Fountain Garden as viewed from the viewing platform at Longwood Gardens. 


LONGWOOD GARDENS 

UNIQUE HORTICULTURAL DISPLAY 
Violet K. Thomas* 

Longwood Gardens at Kennett Square, Pennsylvania is unique among 
orticultural displays. Its conservatory, surrounded by 100 acres of outdoor 
irdens, attracts more than 450,000 visitors a year. It is not a botanical garden 
that it makes no attempt to have complete collections of any groups of plants. 

Its horticultural importance is older than its name. In 1702 George Pierce 
:ceived a grant of land from William Penn on which his sons built a brick 
3 use in 1730 and planted around it many ornamentals not native to the area, 
he house is still standing as are some of the trees planted by the Pierce brothers, 
nong them a large cucumber magnolia Magnolia acuminata and a ginkgo 
inkgo biloba which is thought to have been one of the first planted in this 
mntry. 

The property remained in the hands of the Pierce descendants until 1905. 
'hen the late Mr. Pierre S. DuPont acquired it in 1906, he kept the plantings 
;ar the house much as they had been laid out by the original owners and 
adually developed other areas along more formal lines so that Longwood 
ardens now has many features which remind one of the gardens of the Old 
orld. It has been open to the public since the Conservatory was completed 
1921. Throughout the grounds, dogwood, flowerifig cherry and crab, mag¬ 
mas, lilacs, azaleas and rhododendrons are accented by firs, hemlocks, spruces 
id hollies. The Arboretum features forest and ornamental trees adaptable to 
c climate. A few that are unusual to eastern gardens are the giant sequoia 


*Mrs. Thomas is Horticultural Informationist in the Department of Education at 
ngwood Gardens. 


209 


The fountain garden at Longwood provides a breath-taking spectacle at night. 

I 

In front of the Conservatory is the most famous fountain system in tl 
country. Covering about three acres, the series of fountains and canals is lan 
scaped with box and outlined with clipped Norway maples. The fountains crea 
a restful atmosphere for summer daytime visitors and when illuminated at ni?i 
in a symphony of colored lights and accompanied by the music of the electron 
chimes, they provide an awe-inspiring, never-to-be-forgotten experience for tl 

210 


Sequoiadendron giganteum, dawn redwood Metasequoia glyptostroboides aij 
the dove tree Davidia involucrata. 

Areas of particular interest include plantings of outstanding vegetal,J 
varieties, an herb garden, a rock garden and a topiary garden which was mov j 
from Long Island to be preserved as a demonstration of this disappearing a J 
Outdoor pools provide the most outstanding summer display of tropical watei 
lilies in the East. 

Most recent of several rose gardens are the AARS gardens in which a 
grown most of the All-America Rose Selections since their inception. Othfj 
areas of the outdoor gardens feature perennials, annuals and bulbs. 

Of universal interest are the famous fountain areas. The Italian WaL 
Garden is built on the design and dimensions of the garden at the Villa Gar 
beraia near Florence, Italy, the only changes being the substitution of plar 
adaptable to the climate of the Philadelphia area for the clipped cypress of t 
original, and the addition of the fountains which are in operation during me 
days of the summer season. 

The Open Air Theatre which seats 2100 people is in use on many summ- 
evenings when local organizations give musical or dramatic presentations. He j 
is located the unique “water curtain” and the stage fountains which provide 
breath-taking spectacle following the stage performances. 


iewer. Evening displays are presented every Wednesday from May through 
October and following all events in the Open Air Theatre. 

The Conservatory at Longwood Gardens is the ultimate in horticultural 
isplay. Approximately three and a half acres in extent, it provides ayear-around 
isplay of the choice varieties of well-known plants as well as a collection of 
ie finest ornamentals of tropical and sub-tropical climates to be found in this 
Duntry. The large main room provides a kaleidoscope of color throughout the 
ear. A carefully planned schedule of plantings in the growing houses provides 
constant supply of blooming plants for the borders. Green lawns, Australian 
ee-ferns and acacia, tropical bougainvillea and creeping fig serve to obscure 
le walls and pillars and give the feeling of walking among trees. 

In the Conservatory, winter months feature the extensive camellia collec- 
on, acacia in February and March and rhododendron and Indian azaleas in 
larly spring. A chrysanthemum display involving some 3500 plants draws many 
isitors during the autumn months as do the tropical displays at Easter and 
'hristmas. 

Other areas of the Conservatory have permanent displays in the tropical 
irrace garden, the rose house, the fern passage, the desert house and the 
:onomic house which contains plants from other parts of the world which are 
nportant for food, fiber and medicine. 

The orchid display is one of the most popular in the Conservatory. Sup- 
lied from the Longwood Gardens collection of more than 5000 orchid plants, 
ie display is changed twice a week and is always in top condition. 

Since Mr. DuPont’s death in 1954, Longwood Gardens has been adminis- 
;red by the Longwood Foundation, Inc. which he established to perpetuate the 
irdens for the enjoyment of the public and the benefit of horticulture generally, 
.dministration is in the hands of the Foundation’s trustees under whom Dr. 
. J. Seibert, the director, and a capable staff of specialists have expanded the 
ctivities of the Foundation. All plants have been labeled for the information 
nd convenience of visitors. A program of ornamental plant introduction in 
^operation with the U. S. Department of Agriculture has resulted in collecting 
ips by plant specialists to Japan, Australia, Brazil, Java, the Lesser Antilles 
id the Mediterranean region of Europe. The purpose of these expeditions has 
cen to seek out plant materials which may have ornamental value not only at 
ongwood Gardens but in other parts of the United States as well. 

The Foundation is also cooperating with educational institutions in various 
arts of the country on horticultural research. In the autumn of 1960 a geneticist 


Preserve the Health and Beauty of Your Trees With Swingle Care 

SWINGLE 

TREE SURGEONS 

% 

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Part of the conservatory interior. Acacia in full 
bloom in foreground. Figs envelope the pillars. 


Part of the tropical terrace. Bananna or "gi \ 
Cavendish" dominates this scene. 


was added to the staff at Longwood Gardens who will work on the breed!' 
of ornamentals. 

A range of experimental -greenhouses is devoted to determining cultu l 
conditions for new materials as well as propagation under various conditic!> 
of mist, air-conditioning and so forth. A nursery is maintained for propagati i 
of outdoor ornamentals for use in the display areas. 

Educational activities include a series of free horticultural lectures duri; 
the winter months, short courses in gardening, botany, landscape design a I 
flower arranging. Also, under the Department of Education, the office of Ho 
ticultural Information handles inquiries on horticultural matters and arrangi 
tours for groups of school children, garden clubs and other interested grou] 

Situated some thirty miles from Philadelphia and twelve miles north : 
Wilmington, Delaware, Longwood Gardens is open every day of the year, tj’J 
conservatory from 11 A.M. until 5 P.M. and the outdoor gardens from sunrlij 
to sunset. There is no admission charge at any time. On Sunday afternooi 
the famous Longwood Gardens pipe organ, one of the largest in this count]) I 
may be heard in the Conservatory from 3 to 5 o’clock. j 

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BUILDING A ROCK GARDEN 

OR 

i HOW TO MAKE A MOUNTAIN-SIDE OUT OF A MOLE HILL 

James R. Feucht 

Rock gardens are perhaps the least popular type of garden in our land- 
;apes today, mainly due to the high-maintenance reputation that rock gardens 
ave acquired. (Rock gardens have been increasing in popularity in the past 
jw years, however.) It is true that rock gardens have relatively high main- 
rnance requirements but if it is properly prepared in the beginning, this dis- 
dvantage can be held to a minimum and the joy received in return will far 
utweigh the maintenance tasks. 

Before reading the remainder of this article, examine the sketch below 
epicting 15 common errors made in rock garden construction. See if you can 
ick out the errors. The solution will be £iven in the discussion which follows. 


Do You Have The Proper Setting for a Rock Garden? 

To build a rock garden just because your neighbor has one or because 
3u think “it would be nice” is pure folly if you do not have the proper setting 
>r it. This is error #1 made in the above sketch, where the “rock garden” 
nothing but a rock pile. It has no purpose and does not look natural. A 
itter place would have been on a steep slope such as found along the sides 
: “tri-level” homes or on any slope that would be difficult to mow if planted 
grass, too steep for a flower bed and not steep enough to warrant a retaining 


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213 


wall. If you do not have such a slope and still desire a rock garden, find 
good excuse for one such as to hide a compost pit. In this case, a slope j 
constructed around the rim of the pit which has been built up on the insi( 
with a stone wall. The same can be done to hide an area where garbage ar 
trash are kept. Usually this type of rock garden will be small, but if proper 
constructed, will be appealing and help to distract attention from the unsight 
area you are trying to hide. It can be constructed to look natural when view* 
from a short distance even though the slope is not continuous and is mere 
backed up against a retainer wall. 


Small rock garden screening a compost pit. 

(Arrow.) 

Follow A Plan 

Before attempting to do any of the actual construction work, formula 
a definite plan, whether it be on paper or pictured in your mind. This does n< ; 
mean that you have to plan for every rock in size and shape, but the gener; i 
outline of the area, the highest point and the general grouping of the plan 
should be well thought out. Provision should be made for proper flow of wat< 
(run-off). Slope away from buildings and from areas where water will not drai 
away readily. 


Large rock garden on a steep slope. 

Photos by the auth, \ 


“The advantages of a rock garden are, primarily, an element of picturesquene: 
that nothing else can provide, and the possession of a place in which can t 
grown some of the loveliest flowers on earth . . .” 

From — “The Rock Garden” by H. S. Adams — 1912 j 

LEW HAMMER, INC. 

Landscape Contractor Tel. WE. 5-593; 


214 


! Selection and Placement of the Rock 

The most important step in rock garden construction and perhaps the 
aost commonly erred step, is the selection and proper placement of the rock. 
Jse the following rules when accomplishing this step: 

(1) Avoid using small rocks that will rapidly become buried or screened 
vith plant material. (Error #2 in the above sketch.) The size of the rock that 
ou use should be in proportion with the area the rock garden is to cover. 
A garden having an area of less than 300 sq. ft. should not contain rock smaller 
han 18 inches in their longest dimension. Gardens of greater than 300 sq. ft. 
»ut less than 900 sq. ft. in area should have rocks no smaller than 2 feet in 
heir longest dimension. 

(2) Avoid uniformity of rock sizes and shapes. (Error #3.) Variation of 
izes and shapes helps to obtain a more natural appearance. Too much variation 
l shape, or where rocks are not of the same geological type, can destroy this 
latural look. (Error #4.) Avoid rocks of uniform dimension. (Error #5.) 

(3) Place rocks so that they follow the same general plane or geological 
Donation. (Errors #6 and #7.) Similarly, avoid rocks that “stick out like a 
ore thumb”. (Error #7.) 

(4) Bury enough of the rock so that they will remain in place and will 
Dok like they have been there for thousands of years. This will help avoid the 
balancing rock”, (error #8), the “hanging rock”, (error #9), and the “sliding 
ock”, (error #10). 

(5) Avoid “stacking” rocks on top of each other using round-bottomed 
ocks for the base of larger, flatter rocks. (Error #11.) This gives the formation 
n appearance of precariousness even though it may be quite stable. 

(6) If you decide to have a waterfall, avoid starting it from a visible pipe 
r other unnatural object as in error #12. Start it from a point not visible 
d the observer from any angle or from a natural-appearing crevice in a rock 
r group of rocks. A limited amount of cement may be necessary to make a 
gater-holding trough for the waterfall and the collecting basin, but all cement 
:hould be hidden with rocks and plant material. The entire aesthetic value of 
, waterfall can be ruined by an undisguised cement pool, especially if it is as 
/mmetrical as the one depicted in the sketch. (Error #13.) 

Most important, when placing the rocks, is the general flow of water from 
ne place to the next. If not placed properly, a moderate rain is sufficient to 
/ash the soil away. 

Before planting a rock garden, be sure that you have allowed sufficient 
Dace for the plants you wish to use and it is always best to sprinkle the area 
ither heavily with water to help settle the rocks and surrounding soil a few 
ays before planting. 

Continued Next Page 


MARSHALL 

NURSERIES 

Better Built Trees — Landscaping with Personality 

5825 W. 16th Avenue 

BEImont 7-0445 


215 


A naturalistic waterfall installed by M. Walter Pesman, Landscape Architect, for the Hat Rancl 
Kaycee, Wyoming. 


Good usage of rock and plants. Rock garden of 
Mr. & Mrs. J. V. Petersen, Littleton, Colorado. 


A naturalistic "brook". Installed by Lew Hamm* 
Inc. for Dr. & Mrs. Reid Johnson, Littleton. 


Selection and Placement of Plant Material 

Now that the rocks are in exactly the places that you wanted them, th 
real fun begins in planting the area. It’s fun because you can almost entirel 
forget one of the principles of design— variability, and because there are s 
many interesting plants to choose from. In most garden designs we try to avoi 
a vast variety of plants and stick to a few which we repeat throughout the lane 
scape. In rock gardens, however, we can get by with a “botanical collection 


216 


id, in fact, improve the aesthetic value by doing so. We still must maintain 
>me reserve lest we destroy the “natural” effect that we tried so hard to obtain. 

When selecting the plants, keep in mind the relative size of the rock garden 
st as we did when selecting the rock. Plants that become very large (either 
height or in width) may soon dwarf the whole rock garden as depicted in 
ror #14. It is usually best to plant one or two varieties of “background plants” 
*st, in a randomly dispersed manner. Plants of this nature are the low, spread- 
g ground-cover varieties such as the numerous types of Sedum and Semper- 
vum. Among these, plant as many “specimen” plants as desired, perhaps even 
peating these occasionally. Above all, avoid over planting. Most rock garden 
ants have a tendency to spread rapidly and often become a pest in one or 

I f o growing seasons if not controlled. 

Choose plants for contrasting texture of foliage as well as for color and 
ne of bloom. Some of the best rock garden plants do not have a showy bloom 
all but are prized for their unique foliage. 

(For a list of rock garden plants for all situations and adapted to Colorado 
3 the July, 1959 issue of The Green Thumb, “How to Make a Good Rock 
firden” by, George W. Kelly.) 


Using Artificial Ornaments 

The use of artificial ornaments in a rock garden is somewhat a matter of 
jrsonal “taste” and depends upon the particular effect you desire to obtain, 
hr instance, it is quite acceptable to include a Japanese stone lantern in a 
Izk garden that looks oriental or was intended to be a copy of an oriental 
Irden. You may even wish to place an artificial frog near the pool. This is 
lie if—the figurine is in proper proportion with the remainder of the garden, 
me ornaments, however, are never good in a rock garden because they do 
It “fit in”. This is the case in the above sketch. (Error #15.) The windmill, 
i the top of the rock pile, although not entirely fitting for the situation, is much 
Ire pleasing than the “crystal ball” which is so entirely out-of-place that the 
|:k garden would lose its natural appearance even if it had been constructed 
id planted properly. 

A Word About Maintenance 


t 

\ 

c 


Assuming that you have completed your rock garden to your satisfaction, 
: next step is to establish a regular and systematic program of maintenance. 
;eds are inevitable but by hand weeding once or twice a month (perhaps 
m once a week) you can keep ahead of them. Occasionally, dead flowers 
1 have to be removed and the more vigorous plants will have to be thinned 
cut back. 


Don’t let a season slip by without giving your rock garden the needed 
mention. It is too difficult to “catch up with it” if you neglect it. 


MEMBER 


Set, u fit off }rhorij! Service 


SPECIALISTS IN TREE CARE 
HArrison 4-6112 


217 


YOU PROBABLY HAVE A CHALK-GARDEN i 

M. Walter Pesman 

Ben Franklin was a scientist and a publicity expert as well. After he h;l 
preached the use of lime “to make the soil sweet” without making much heaj- 
way on his neighbors, he decided on a visual demonstration. 

In the center of a conspicuous piece of lawn he applied lime in big lettd; 
L-I-M-E. Before long nature did the rest: wherever the lime was spread tJi 
grass showed more luscious growth, doing its own advertising. It made a bj;; 
impression on whoever saw it. 

But Colorado is not Pennsylvania and science has made big strides sin; 
Ben Franklin. Where do we stand now on the question of lime, sweet soils ap 
chalk gardens as they designate alkaline conditions in England? 

Generally speaking, our entire arid region is an immense “chalk garden! 
Newcomers from other parts should try to understand what that means 
garden practice. They should study up on the question of pH, meaning til 
degree of soil acidity. Sour (acid) soils show a low pH, such as a pH of 5 ai!| 
less than a pH of 7 in any case. 

Acid-loving species include plants such as rhododendrons, azaleas, holliql 
mountain laurels and blueberries. They will not do well in our alkaline soil! 
which may well show a pH of 7 and quite a bit higher. 

The question arises naturally: “If lime improves an acid soil, why nil 
add some sort of an acidifyer?” It sounds simple. 

In his recent book “Your Garden Soil” R. Milton Carleton says: “ij 
lower the pH of light sandy loams one full point (i.e. from pH 6.0 to 5.0) atfl 
10 pounds of dusting sulfur per 1,000 square feet. In medium loam soil, acj 
15 pounds, and to heavy clay loam, 20 pounds.” 

That is good advice—within limits. Do not expect miracles from makiiil 
your soil acid. It will work only to a certain extent. What is worse, it will nj 
last. Remember that all our irrigation water is alkaline, and that all surroundiiJ 
soil is alkaline, so that we can only expect a limited bit of ground to be improve! 

PRACTICAL ADVICE jl 

To be happy in your gardening in this arid region, forget about growirj 
rhododendrons, azaleas, hollies and blueberries. They are for experts. Yen 
that also includes flowering dogwoods for the present, until the plant breed; 
develops an alkali-tolerant kind. 

There are a few broadleaved evergreens that you can grow, such as Oregc; 
Grape, some firethorns, and several euonymus. Make the best of them. 

There are so many kinds of plants that love our alkaline soil, that we cJ 
have beautiful gardens anyway; make the best of those kinds. Lilacs and irij 
just to mention two, do as well here as anywhere; so do most annuals. 

In conclusion let me pass on a “trick” I was told in Geneva where thd 
have quite a bit of lime soil. The Botanical Gardens plant certain acid-lovers ji 
decaying tree-stumps. The acid developing from the decay helps the particulfl 
difficult plant. 

In many borderline cases addition of sulfur will do good such as with til 
red oaks. But remember that you can overdo it. After all, there is no substitu! 
for good common sense. Good luck! 


218 


» 


s. 


coo 


>pd 


Mrs. John Scott 


Plant materials used in landscaping effects can lead a double life, at least 
lany of them. The dual role refers to cutting materials for floral designs or 
rranging. 

Dogwood, Cornus stolonijera coloradensis, will serve as an example, 
rapid grower, its red bark can be pruned for winter bouquets, especially 
uring holidays. The contrast is good with evergreens outdoors or indoors. The 
'hite spring flowers hold up well, and are interestingly different. Its fall fruits 
r berries are attractive too. There are other versatile shrubs for the knowing. 

Caladium is one of many usable pot plants. Around the patio, in window 
oxes or hanging baskets during the summer, a few leaves can be snipped in back 
,'ithout notice. Come winter and caladiums can cheer up any corner in the 
Jome. Its foliage is almost a substitute for flowers, with a leaf or more sparking- 
jp an arrangement. 

Foliages in design can let you down or wilt if they haven’t been con- 

I itioned or hardened properly. By and large the more mature the plant and its 
:aves the more wilt-resistant it is. Submerge the entire leaf in cold water, as a 
^rter. But there are variations, some require only a few hours to become 
lrgid (crisp) while others take 24 hours or even more. A few need to begin in 
ot water (80 to 100 degrees). Experimentation is the best procedure, because 
o two plantings are the same. The more healthy a plant is, the longer its lasting 
aalities. 

Varieties are important. Some flowers just don’t lend themselves to arrang- 
jig, because their life span (after cutting) is too limited for the time and effort 
tvolved. Varieties, cut-flower wise, are improving. Some old varieties are 
bming out with built-in endurance. Most nurseries now list or comment upon 
iiose with favorable cutting qualities. 

All plant materials, it seems, should be well-watered a day or more before 
Jtting. With zinnias this is a must. Mud boots may be part of an arranger’s 
jitting equipment. A sharp knife is preferable to shears, and sugar or vinegar 
recommended in the conditioning water for many plants. A recognized 
athority is Victoria R. Kasperski, and her book “How to Make Cut Flowers 
fast” is required reading for designers. 

The following are reputedly long-lasting: 


Spike, Line 

rtemisia — 10 days 
stilbe — 7 days 
arley — 1 to 2 weeks 
sard-Tongue — 1 week 
dls-of-Ireland — 1 to 2 weeks 
!ue Lobelia — 6 to 10 days 
anterbury Bells — 1 to 2 weeks 
ackscomb — 1 to 3 weeks 
tlse Indigo — 5 to 7 days 
axglove — 5 to 10 days 
as Plant — 5 to 7 days 


or Panicle Forms 

Heather — Almost Indefinitely 
Larkspur — up to 10 days 
Lavender — up to 10 days 
Lupine —up to 7 days 
Monkshood — 5 to 7 days 
Snapdragon — 5 to 12 days 
Speedwell — 4 to 6 days 
Squill — 5 to 8 days 
Thermopsis — 7 to 12 days 
Torch Lily — up to 1 week 
Yucca — 4 to 7 days 


219 


Filler or Spray Flowers 


Baby’s Breath — up to 1 week 
Basket-of-Gold — 5 days 
Bleeding Heart — 4 to 6 days 
Candytuft — 5 to 7 days 
Coral-bells — 5 to 10 days 
Coreopsis — 1 to 2 weeks 
Feverfew — up to 1 week 
Golden Marguerite — 7 to 10 days 
Houseleeks — 5 to 7 days 
Jack-in-the-Pulpit — 4 to 7 days 
Laurel — up to 2 weeks 
Lemon-Verbena — 7 days 
Love-in-a-Mist — 7 to 10 days 


Meadow-Rue — 5 to 10 days 
Mexican Fire Plant — 1 to 2 weeks 
Mignonette — 5 to 7 days 
Phlox — 7 to 12 days 
Primrose — 3 to 8 days 
Purple Loosestrife — 4 to 7 days 
Queen Anne’s Lace — 7 to 12 days 
Sea-Lavender — 5 to 10 days 
Spider Flower — 4 to 5 days 
Statice — Everlasting 
Sweet Pea — 5 to 8 days 
Sweet William — 1 to 2 weeks 
Tansy — 1 to 2 weeks 


Head or 

Aster, China — up to 2 weeks 
Bachelor’s Button — 5 to 8 days 
Black-Eyed Susan — 1 to 2 weeks 
Blanket Flower — 7 to 10 days 
Blue Lace Flower — 7 to 10 days 
Chrysanthemum — 1 to 3 weeks 
Columbine — 5 to 7 days 
Cosmos — 5 to 8 days 


Round Flowers 

Iris — 3 to 5 days 
Leopard’s Bane — up to 12 days 
Lilies — 5 to 8 days 
Lily-of-the-Valley — 3 to 7 days 
Marigold — 1 to 2 weeks 
Mexican Sunflower — 5 to 9 days 
Painted Tongue — 4 to 7 days 
Pansy — 4 to 6 days (take roots) 
Petunia — 4 to 7 days 


Dahlias — 5 to 7 days 

Scabiosa — 4 to 8 days 

English Daisy — 7 to 10 days 

Sunflower — 6 to 10 days 

Globe Amaranth — up to 1 week 

Teazle, Fullerweed — 5 to 8 days 

Globe Flower — up to 1 week 

Wall flower — 6 to 12 days 

Globe Thistle — up to 1 week 

Yarrow — 3 to 15 days 

Goldenrod — 1 to 3 weeks 

Yorktown Onion — 4 to 7 days 

For Foliage — 

Most very long-lasting 

Yucca 

Meadow Rue 

Artemisia 

Nasturtium 

Beebalm 

Plantain Lily or Funkia 

Herbs, many varieties 

Rue 

Houseleeks 

Sage, Several varieties 

Ivy, English 

Snow-on-the-Mountain 

Lantana 

Spurge 

Laurel 

Woolly Lamb’s Ear 

Swingle Tree Surgeons offer a 

complete service to preserve the Beauty 

and Health of your 

trees. Evergreens, and shrubs. 

SWINGLE 

TREE SURGEONS 

620 So. Dahlia • 

DE 3-4417 • FR 7-8123 


220 


WHAT IS YOUR BOTANIC GARDENS DOING? 


From time to time your Denver 
otanic Gardens will furnish you with 
report of the activities being carried 
a in the Gardens. To better appre- 
ate the improvements being made, 
isit us whenever you get a chance and 
atch us grow. 

Spring Planting —During our usual 
usy spring months the Botanic 
hardens has planted over 300 trees 
ad shrubs. Included in the list of 
Lees and shrubs planted are, to name 
I few, Schwedler Maple, Acer plata- 
Jpides Schwedleri; Cutleaf Weeping 
irch, Betula pendula laciniata; Cut- 
af Staghorn Sumac, Rhus typhina 
ciniata; Scots Pine, Pinus sylvestris; 
oxtail Pine, Pinus aristata; Concolor 
ir, Abies concolor; Highbush Cran- 
;rry, Viburnum opulis; Red-leaf Bar- 
;rry, Berberis atropurpurea; and 


| closely sheared Scots Pine planted at Botanic 
srdens. 

any others. All plants are placed 
j:cording to a master plan which has 
ien drawn to scale so that each plant 
located accurately by careful meas- 
ements. By a continuous program 


of adding more and more plants each 
year, it will not be too long before 
the basic plan is fulfilled. 

In addition to the tree and shrub 
planting, several new varieties of roses 
have been added to the rose gardens 
in City Park and at 909 York St. and 
many species of perennials have been 
planted in the perennial garden along 
the wall facing York Street. 

Extensive sodding has been done 
this spring between the bulb (later the 
petunia) beds, between the newly 
planned perennial beds and on the 
southwest side of Botanic Gardens 
House. 

Improvements have been made in 
the existing landscape around Botanic 
Gardens House with the help of a 
group of volunteers under the direc¬ 
tion of Mrs. James R. Arneill, Jr., 
head of the Grounds Committee. Of 
the more tedious tasks performed by 
this group of ladies was weeding the 
rock garden on the southwest side 
of the house. 

The Children’s Garden Program — 
The Children’s Garden Program which, 
this year, began on March 20, has a 
total enrollment of 116. Because of 
this large number of children, the 
classes were divided into four sections. 
Each section met for one hour every 
two weeks and now that planting time 
is here, many come every day except 
Sunday. Until the ground in the Chil¬ 
dren’s Garden was properly prepared 
for planting, the children attended 
classes on how to plan the garden. 


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Preferred by millions of users for over 20 years, 

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send SI for 10-oz. can, postpaid. Makes 60 gallons. 


HYDROPONIC CHEMICAL CO., Copley II. Ohio. U S A > 


221 


Spring planting activities at the Botanic Gardens Children's Garden. 


and the proper planting distances for 
each vegetable and flower. In one 
of the sessions, the children per¬ 
formed germination tests on several 
types of vegetable seeds by placing 
a known quantity of seed on paper 
towels, rolling the seed up in the 
towels, moistening the towels and 
placing them in plastic bags. The 
children kept a record of the germi¬ 
nation and reported their results at 
the next class session. In this way, 
children were able to see what hap¬ 
pens when a seed germinates and at 
the same time determine how good the 
seed was. 

One of the hazards in a gardening 
program of this nature is the unpre¬ 
dictability of the weather. The out¬ 
door program (the actual planting of 
the garden by the children) was de¬ 
layed slightly due to snows that pre¬ 
vented proper preparation of the soil. 
The first date that the children actually 
worked in the garden was May 1. Two 
children work as partners on a single 
plot approximately 275 sq. ft. in size. 
The children are held responsible for 
keeping the garden watered and weeded 
throughout the growing season. 

Soil Grading Operations — Final 
grading of various areas in the 18 acre 


site at 909 York Street was performe 
this year starting as soon as the groun i 
could be worked. The planting are 
between York Street and Josephind! 
surrounding the parking area, wa 
graded for planting and much of it j 
already planted according to plai 
Rough grading of the cactus and sue 
culent area has been accomplishe 
with final grading to be finished befoi 
the end of the summer. 

The development of a botanic gai 
den is a dynamic endeavor. Therefor 
it is never “finished” but must cor 
tinually expand and improve to bette 
fulfill its purpose — that of researc 
and public education. 

I-j 

MOUNTAIN PEAT 
FERTILIZERS 

Nursery Stock and Evergreens 

McCoy & Jensen 

Nursery located 1 mi. west of South 

Wadsworth on the Morrison Road 

Morrison, Colorado 
YUkon 5-1504 


222 


FEEDING HUMMINGBIRDS 


Hummingbirds “ . . . are most numerous in Colorado in the coniferous 
forests of the mountains, but a few occur on the plains in suitable places such 
as city flower gardens. 

“Feeding is accomplished by means of a glass vial, filled with sweetened 
liquid and colored or decorated to resemble a flower, preferably red. Such 
feeders can be made at home or purchased. 

“While sugar syrup is readily taken, it has been found that plain sugar 
is harmful to the birds, as it contains none of the protein and minerals neces¬ 
sary for a balanced diet, and may damage the liver. Honey, however, diluted 
to the consistency of nectar is normal food for them. Birds fed on sugar are 
said to be weak and listless, and young birds have died after consuming too 
much plain sugar, apparently of malnutrition. A mixture of one part honey 
to three of water is recommended. The water should be boiled to retard 
fermentation.”—Donald M. Thatcher, Colorado Bird Notes. 


"75 Years — Celebrating Our Diamond Jubilee of Service' 


A visit to our garden shop is a rewarding experience 
for the gardening enthusiast. Here you’ll find a com¬ 
plete line of garden tools, insecticides and plant 
foods and other gardening accessories . . . al‘ 
displayed in attractive surroundings. Courteous, ex 
perienced people are on hand to serve you. May we 
see you soon? 

A W.^JSORE 

k. V / wtST 1 ,.. .VINUI • «*OS»0«TM WHI.THIOOI M» 


Jilpssk 


WWMW 


JfcP' 


0M 


tyieett 

DENVER BOTANIC GARDENS 
909 YORK STREET 

DENVER 6, COLORADO 


BLK RT 


U. S. POSTAGE 

PAID 


Permit No. 205 
Denver, Colorado 


DO NOT FOLD 

POSTMASTER: FORM 3547 REQUESTED 


Let’s go to the Mountains and see our native Alpine plants 
growing in their natural habitat. 

Come on the field trip to DENVER BOTANIC GARDENS 
MT. GOLIATH ALPINE GARDEN. 


11 , 1 96 / 


The trip will be made by chartered bus. For reservations send your 
check for $2.00 to cover bus fare to Mrs. Harlan Cluphf, 3888 So. 
Grant Street, Englewood, Colorado, before the deadline, August 3. 


B 


rincj a picnic 


iunch 


Trip Sponsored by the Colorado Federation of Garden Clubs. 
For more information call Mrs. Cluphf, SU 1-0821. 


'The (2teen ihumb 

XUG.-SEPT., 1961 25 CENTS 

Magazine for Rocky Mountain Gardeners 


'w 4 


_ ....... 


INDEX TO ADVERTISERS 


Advertiser Poge 

Alameda Nursery, Inc.Inside Back Cover 

Chambers, Lee — Tree Surgeon... 237 

Cottonwood Garden Shop — George and Sue Kelly. 235 

Creative Gardens . 252 

Denver Forestry and Landscape Company. 247 

Hydroponic Chemical Co. — Hyponex Plant Food. 238 

lliff Garden Nursery.Inside Front Cover 

Kroh Brothers Nurseries. 243 

Keesen, Anthony & Sons — Sprinkling Systems. 239 

Lawn Management Company. 246 

Marshall Nurseries . 247 

McCoy & Jensen Nursery. 247 

Rocky Mountain Seed Company. 237 

Sabell's Hillside Gardens. 230 

Schulhoff Arborist Service. 240 

Simpson Seed Company. 237 

South Denver Evergreen Nursery. 240 

Swingle Tree Surgeons.236 - 247 

Western Evergreens, Inc. 243 

W. W. Wilmore Nurseries, Inc.Back Cover 


ILIFF GARDEN 
NURSERY 

Fall Bulbs—Daffodils, Tulips, 
Hyacinths and all the little 
bulbs. 

Notice to Landscapers and Nurserymen—We offer at 
wholesale—3000 plus. Vinca minor, Bowles variety; 

1500 Ajuga; 500 Cerastium tomentosum; 500 Del¬ 
phinium, specific hybrids, all colors; 1000 Festuca 
glauca; 500 Boston Ivy; 500 Engelman Ivy; 300 Chrys¬ 
anthemums. All the above grown in number 10 cans. 
Heavy and excellent quality. Come see them. 

SK 6-5656 

ILIFF GARDEN 

SK 6-5656 

NURSERY 

4750 E. lliff 

Perennials — Over 400 vari¬ 
eties, 80,000 plants. 

4750 E. lliff 

COME AND SEE US 

ILIFF GARDEN 
NURSERY 

The most complete stock. 

Trees, Shrubs, Roses, Ever¬ 
greens, Ground Covers, Rock 

Visitors are always welcome. 

Garden Plants, Hardy Vines, 
all in containers. 


AUG.-SEPT. 
Vol. 18 
No. 7 


EDITORIAL 

COMMITTEE 


M. Walter Pesman, 
Chairman 

Julia Andrews 

Mrs. Alexander Barbour 

Mrs. William Crisp 

Fred R. Johnson 

Mrs. J. V. Petersen 

Mrs. John Scott 

Dr. Moras Shubert 

Mrs. James P. Steele, Jr. 

Mrs. Edmund Wallace 

Dr. Helen Marsh Zeiner 

Patrick Gallavan 

Mr. Everett Long 

Mrs. Everett Long 

Dr. A. C. Hildreth 
Editor 

THE COVER 

Gentiana calycosa 
(Gentiana parryi) 
Painted by 
Emma A. Ervin 

See Page 231 


Members 


"The Cjtaan “Th umit 

To conduct research on plants, both native and exotic, in 
varied plant zones of our region, to evaluate their economic, 
medicinal and horticultural potentials. 

To coordinate the knowledge and experience of botanists, 
horticulturists and gardeners. 

To educate the public in the best use of horticultural 
materials. 

To maintain a large collection of plant species and varieties 
for study and display. 


CONTENTS 

TITLE PAGE 

Calendar of Events .. 228 

Notes and Notices. 228 

Emma Armstrong Ervin, Katharine Crisp. 231 

Plant Portraits, George W. Kelly. 234 

State Parks Director H. Lathrop Dies, Arnold 

E. Perretin .. 235 

Denver Rose Show Draws 7200. 236 

Martin Schafer, Ed Wallace. 238 

Read Those Pesticide Labels, Robert I. Sullivan.. 239 

Seasonal Suggestions, Pat Gallavan. 241 

Gardening with Colorado Wildings VI, Ruth 

Ashton Nelson . 242 

Report on Terrace and Garden Tour, Mrs. J. 

Kiernan Weckbaugh . 244 

The Barnum Parkway, S. R. DeBoer. 245 

Pete Ponders . 248 

Nation's Landscape Architects Meet in Colo¬ 
rado, Gerald F. Kessler. 249 

Los Angeles State & County Arboretum, Dr. 

William S. Stewart. 251 

Generous Gift to Botanic Gardens, Kathryn 

Kalmbach . 256 

Scoops by Scott, Mrs. John Scott. 258 


SENT FREE TO ALL MEMBERS OF THE ORGANIZATION. 
REGULAR MEMBERSHIP, $5.00; PARTICIPATING, $10.00; 
SUPPORTING, $25.00; CONTRIBUTING, $50.00; SUSTAIN¬ 
ING, $100.00. 

Copyright 1961 

DENVER BOTANIC GARDENS, INC. 

A non-profit, privately financed Organization 

EA 2-9656 MA 3-1133, Ext. 428 

909 YORK ST. DENVER 6, COLORADO 


t 


t 


(Calendar Of Advents 


Every Saturday Morning—9:10 a.m. 
KLZ Radio. The Green Thumb 
Program by Herbert Gundell, Den¬ 
ver County Agent. 

Every Saturday Afternoon—4:30 p.m. 
KLZ-TV Channel 7, The Week-end 
Gardener by Herbert Gundell. 
Third Sunday every month—Colorado 
Cactophiles at members’ homes. 
Call WE 4-1506. 

Every Monday — 8:10 p.m. 8 Week 
Course in Floral Design. Loretto 
Heights College, Art Studio. Sthrts 
September 18. Mrs. John Scott, In¬ 
structor. 

Saturday, September 9th — 1:30 
p.m. Tree Class in Washington Park. 
M. Walter Pesman. 

AT BOTANIC GARDENS HOUSE 
SEPTEMBER 

5th — Tues., 10:00 a.m. Hygiene, 
Colorado Garden Club Tour 

6th — Wed., 7:30 p.m. Botany Club 

7th — Thurs. 7:45 p.m. Orchid 
Society 

8th — Fri., 9:30 a.m. Southern Hills 
Garden Club 

11th — Mon., 10:00 a.m. Judges’ 
Council 

12th — Tues., 10:00 a.m. Herbarium 
Study group 


4:00 p.m. Citizens’ Street and Shad 
Tree Committee 

7:30 p.m. Evergreen Garden Cli 
13th — Wed., 7:30 p.m. Landsca{i 
Contractors 

14th — Thurs., 2:30 p.m. State Hi? 
torical Society Volunteers Tea 
7:30 p.m. Rose Society 

18th — Mon., 10:00 a.m. D.A.I 
Board Meeting 

4:00 p.m. Denver Botanic Garden 
Board Meeting 

19th — Tues. — 8:00 p.m. Tree Cla: 
Dr. A. C. Hildreth 

20th — Wed., 9:30 a.m. Fun wil 
Flowers Workshop 

21st — Thurs., 10:00 a.m. “Aroun 
the Seasons” Meeting 

25th — Mon., 2:15 p.m. Colorado 
Chapter D.A.R. Tea 
27th — Wed. 7:30 p.m. Landscape 
Contractors 

OCTOBER 

2nd — Mon., 9:30 a.m. Denver Be 
tanic Gardens Junior Committee 

3rd — Tues., 1:00 p.m. Mountain 
View Garden Club 
8:00 p.m. Tree Class, Dr. A. C 
Hildreth 

4th — Wed., 7:30 p.m. Botany Club 

5th — Thursday 7:45 p.m. Orchi 
Society 


NOTES AND NOTICES 

CITATION FOR DR. HERMANN — Dr. A. A. Hermann, 131 S. Birc 
Street, has received a citation from the U. S. Army for eight years of servic 
in supplying flowers to patients at Fitzsimons General Hospital. The citatio 
read in part: “He expended a great deal of energy, time and personal fundj 
in an effort to produce more and better flowers. ... He has supplied enoug 1 
flowers for each bed patient to have a small bouquet, with larger bouquets fo 
each of the wards.” 

Dr. Hermann, a former director of the Colorado Forestry and Horticultur 
Association, a member of the Denver Botanic Gardens and of the Menl 
Garden Club of Denver, has also supplied other Denver hospitals with flowers! 
In addition he has opened his beautiful garden for tours by many garden clubs 1 


228 


. 


' A CLASS IN DESIGN AND CARE OF THE GARDEN OFFERED 
If EXTENSION DEPARTMENT COLORADO UNIVERSITY — Begin- 
; lg Wednesday, Sept. 20, from 6:20 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. and finishing on 
^dnesday, Nov. 15, M. Walter Pesman will give a class for home gardeners 
Ider the auspices of Colorado University. Both design and maintenance will 
)\ treated. The ways of solving problems of creating garden individuality will 
jli discussed. Patios, fences and stone work will be given special attention, 
passes will be held in Temporary Building A, at 19th Ave. and Birch St. 
; :re is a chance for the do-it-yourself gardener to get assistance from a com- 
I tent landscape architect of long standing. 


MRS. JOHN SCOTT WINS PRESS AWARD — Mrs. John Scott, author 
‘Vthe “Scoops by Scott” column in The Green Thumb, won second place honors 
ic the magazine category of an annual press competition sponsored by the 
:'itional Federation of Press Women, Inc. Mrs. Scott won the award for 
: ections of her column appearing monthly in The Green Thumb which, at 
lit time was entitled “Composting.” 

_ 

h MRS. STANLEY EXHIBITS MINIATURE GARDENS — Under the 
} jonsorship of the Denver Botanic Gardens, Mrs. Helen D. Stanley, 1374 
f ashington St., prepared and exhibited an exquisite collection of miniature 
Brdens in the lobby of the Empire Savings, Building and Loan Association, 
54 California St., Denver. The showing was scheduled for one week but 
oved so popular that it was continued from July 31, to August 11. It is 
i imated that 2,000 people saw the exhibit. 

ORCHID SHOW — The Denver Orchid Society will again hold the 
t chid Show at Botanic Gardens House on Saturday and Sunday, October 21 
d 22, from 10:00 A.M. to 6:00 P.M. There is no charge and the public 
cordially invited to view this display of beautiful orchid plants. 


STATE FLOWER SHOW SCHOOL — The correct dates for the State 
ower Show School are October 9-10-11 at Botanic Gardens House. 

j 

NOTED VISITORS — Dr. Frits W. Went, Director of Missouri Botanical 
irdens, St. Louis, Missouri, met with members of our Board of Trustees on 
ly 3 at Botanic Gardens House. He discussed his famous Climatron which 
is opened last year and also various matters pertaining to botanic garden 
iteration. 

Dr. Raymond C. Allen, Director of Kingwood Center, Mansfield, Ohio, 
| is here on August 22 to 24 to consult with members of the Board of Trustees 
Warding conservatories and display greenhouses proposed for the Denver 
»tanic Gardens. 


FREE IRIS RHIZOMES — we invited you to come in and pick up an 
Is rhizome from our own garden. If you haven’t done so, you had better make 
|ste as our supply is dwindling. We have been delighted with the reception 
! r invitation received from our members and hope that this will be only the 
l st of such pleasant services we can render. 

i 

i 


229 


I 


BOOKS AND BOOKLETS FOR SALE — The following books ai 
booklets may be purchased in the office at Botanic Gardens House, 909 Yo 
Street: 

Around the Seasons by S. R. DeBoer. $1.( 

Meet the Natives by M. Walter Pesman.spiral binding 3.(f 

regular binding 3.( 

Mountain Wild Flowers, a museum pictorial. 1.' 

Colorado Evergreens by Robert E. More. 2.i 

How to Grow Good Gardens in the Sunshine States by George Kelly.... 

spiral binding 3.'. 
regular binding 3.C 

Saga of a Forest Ranger by Len Shoemaker. 5.(j 

The Secret of the Green Thumb by Henry and Rebecca Northen. 5.(| 

Twig Key (Identification of trees and shrubs in winter) by William Harlow 0.6 
Fruit Key (Identification of plants by their fruit) by William Harlow.... 0.6 

What Tree is This by the Denver City & County. 0.2 

Nature Games by Nesbit. 0.6 

,Handbook of Plants of Colorado Front Range by William Weber. 5.G 

Plants of Rocky Mountain National Park by Ruth Ashton Nelson. 1.2 

Planning for America’s Wildlands by Arthur H. Carhart. 2.5} 

ARTICLES OF LASTING INTEREST TO TODAY’S GARDENER J 
in past issues of The Green Thumb are several articles of great interest. Copi<| 
may be obtained from Mrs. Helen Vincent at Botanic Gardens House. Amor* 
such articles are: 


Lilacs for Colorado by Milton J. Keegan—Dec. 1944. $ .l f 

(Beautifully illustrated) 


Flowers and Gardens of the Central City Region—July-Aug. 1946.5 

(By several authors — well illustrated) 

Hawthorns by M. Walter Pesman—May 1950. 1 

(Very descriptive and well illustrated) 


DENVER BOTANIC GARDENS NOTE PAPER AVAILABLE — sen 
your personal notes to your friends on our new note paper with Botanic Garden 
House etched on the front. Available from Mrs. Vincent, Botanic Garden 
House, 909 York Street. $1.00 per box. 


SABELL'S HILLSIDE GARDENS 

Container Grown Perennials Mums in Bloom 

Delphinium — Phlox — Thousands of Rock Garden Plants 

GROWERS OF FINE PLANTS SINCE 1947 
1241 Stuart St., Denver CH. 4-3853 


230 


EMMA ARMSTRONG ERVIN 

1874 -1957 

Katharine Bruderlin Crisp 


| Soon there will be on display at 
ptanic Gardens House the very in¬ 
vesting and extensive collection of 
^iter color paintings of Colorado wild 
jWers by the late Emma A. Ervin, 
fie collection was begun at the turn 
I the century and year by year grew 
size. Mrs. Ervin worked entirely 
th fresh plants. A wide range of 
ants is represented. As an artist- 
turalist Mrs. Ervin became well 
jiown in the Longs Peak area through 
r enthusiasm for the beautiful wild 
lowers. 

iEmma Ervin was bom in George- 
*\vn, Ohio, February 26, 1874. Her 
rents were Andrew and Mary Arm- 
ong and she was one of eight chil- 
en. 

Her early education was in the 
[fiools of Georgetown and later she 
:ended the Cincinnati Art Academy, 
atzon Borglum was one of the in- 
uctors at the Art School of that time, 
mcerning her life at the Academy 
r sister writes “Emma’s memories 
the years at the Art Academy were 
vays vivid and dear to her, some of 
r associates there remaining friends 
th whom she kept in contact all her 
e. While there she painted her most 


outstanding work, a large canvas in 
oils of a mother and baby, often called 
a Madonna picture, although she did 
not mean it as such.” This painting is 
in Denver in the possession of the 
daughter of her dearest friend. 

Emma came to Colorado in 1895. 
She married Frank Ervin in 1896. 
Right after their marriage she and 
Frank returned to Georgetown, Ohio. 
Since they were both fond of flowers 
and the outdoors, Emma made sketches 
on their picnics in the creek hills and 
general country side. Many of the 
sketches were of the wild flowers. 

After returning to Denver they be¬ 
came interested in a cabin site in Estes 
Park on land owned by Enos Mills. 
Mr. Mills deeded land south of Longs 
Peak Inn to them. Here they built their 
cabin, in which many happy days were 
spent. Between the Millses and the Er¬ 
vins a staunch friendship developed. 
Mr. Mills would bring specimens from 
the alpine areas for Emma to sketch 
and paint. She herself was not strong 
enough to do any strenuous climbing. 

Mr. Mills was a well-known natu¬ 
ralist of the Longs Peak area and for 
many years owned and operated Longs 
Peak Inn. Each evening in front of the 


231 


big fireplace guests would gather to 
listen to his nature stories. One of his 
stories was “The Story of a Thousand 
Year Pine.” For this publication, Em¬ 
ma made the black and white illustra¬ 
tions. Through the years he published 
other books on nature subjects and 
Longs Peak Inn was famous as a meet¬ 
ing place for those who loved to ex¬ 
plore the high country. 

A striking view of Longs Peak was 
painted by Mrs. Ervin. Colored repro¬ 
ductions of this painting appeared on 
post cards which were published and 
sold by Enos Mills. The original paint¬ 
ing is now owned by Mr. Roy Hamil¬ 
ton of Dallas, Texas. 

The Ervins spent many weeks dur¬ 
ing each summer at their cabin and 
never failed to take a friend or two 
along to enjoy the beauty of the region. 
About 1914, Emma began her water 
colors of Colorado wild flowers. Dur¬ 
ing the next twenty years the collection 
grew to more than 197 paintings. The 
drawings are life size, accurately drawn 
and colored. Painstaking, detailed 
drawings of the flower parts were also 
added. These sketches Emma used as 
motifs in conventionalized designs and 
patterns for book plates and illustra¬ 
tions. She even created her own designs 
for appliqued patch work quilts, of 
which she made several beautiful ones. 

It was her ambition to prepare an 
illustrated flora of the wild flowers of 
Colorado using her water colors. How¬ 
ever, the printing of colored illustra¬ 
tions was an expensive process and a 
publisher could not be found who was 
interested in undertaking the publica¬ 
tion of a book that would have a 
limited circulation. 

Mrs. Ervin and her husband were, 
for several years, active members of 
the Colorado Mountain Club and were 
both interested in the preservation of 
wild flowers. Emma was chairman of 
the Nature Protection Committee in 
1917. She illustrated various articles 
for the magazine “Trail and Timber- 


Emma Armstrong Ervin 


line.” The themes expressed in 
drawings are evidence of her great 
terest in wild flowers and animal li 


In 1935, her life was saddened j 
the death of her husband. She nl 
plunged more deeply into her art wo i 
painting landscapes in oils, especial 
aspen scenes, and still life compel 
tions. Her failing health forced her i 
give up her beloved cabin in Esj 
Park and she settled in her Demr 
home where she had several oi» 
woman shows of her paintings, exhit 1 
ing a wide range of subjects. 


Previous to her illness she was woi* 
ing on a series of pen and ink desid 
of wild flowers for publication in (ij 
operation with Enos Mills who was v 
prepare the text. But this effort 
never completed. 


On May 6, 1957, Emma died af 
a prolonged illness. She had no cl 
dren and all her brothers and sist<j 
have passed away with the excepti 
of one sister, Mrs. Eva Armstro 
Thomas of Berkeley, California. 


Ji 


Those who knew Emma and watched 
ie collection of wild flower studies 
row were greatly impressed by her 
kill, patience, and devotion to her 
/ork. Her landscapes, especially those 
/ith aspens in fall color were very 
ppealing. In her later years when she 
ould no longer go to the mountains 
he turned to still life compositions, 
ler paintings grace many homes in 

| )enver and in places outside of Den- 

A few years before her death her 
ollection of water colors of Colorado 
lowers was brought to the attention 
if the Colorado Forestry and Horticul- 
ure Association by Mrs. Henry F. 
1 rooks. Through the generosity of 
A rs. John Evans the collection was 
mrchased for the Association. 

Then for several years the collection 
yas almost forgotten since there was 
to practical way of displaying the 
taintings. But recently the curiosity of 
ertain Garden Club members, who 
vere interested in saving our vanishing 
vild flowers, managed to get the col¬ 
ection out of storage. Thus began the 
jlesire to protect the paintings and 
nake them available to all who are 
nterested in studying the wild flowers 
!)f Colorado. 

The paintings have been carefully 
nounted in plastic sleeves, 14" x 17", 
n size. The sleeves are bound in five 


volumes titled Colorado Wild Flowers. 
These volumes will be on display in 
the library of Botanic Gardens House. 
Through the courtesy of Mrs. Enos 
Mills the pen and ink sketches for the 
unfinished book are made available 
and will be shown. 

We are indebted for the preparation 
of these volumes to several persons 
who have devoted much time, money, 
and energy to the project. Mrs. Alex¬ 
ander L. Barbour donated the album 
covers and the plastic sleeves. Mrs. 
Marjorie Shepherd acted as general 
supervisor. 

It took many hours of patient work 
to mount the paintings, to arrange and 
catalog them, and to type the indexes. 
The work was done by Mrs. Jackson 
C. Thode, ably assisted by Mrs. Rus¬ 
sell Cookson and supplemented by the 
volunteer help of all members of the 
Morning Belles Garden Club. 

The information given by Dr. Wil¬ 
liam A. Weber, Department of Botany, 
University of Colorado has been very 
helpful in completing the names on the 
specimens. 

For the information used in this 
brief biography, the writer is greatly 
indebted to Mrs. Eva Armstrong 
Thomas, Mrs. Enos Mills, Miss Elsie 
E. Hayes and Mr. Charles E. Hans- 
com, who graciously responded to all 
inquiries. 


ALPINE" gentian 


“In the forest the 
balance one another . 
;hemist and economist. 


processes of decay and the processes of growth always 
, . . the forest is the perfect sanitarium, the supreme 
”—Sir Albert Howard. 


233 


PLANT PORTRAITS 

George W. Kelly 


Hibiscus syriacus 'Bluebird' 


SHRUBALTHEA 

The Shrubalthea, Althea or Rose-of- 
Sharon (Hibiscus syriacus'), has been 
a favorite in southern gardens for 
many years, but because it is on the 
borderline as to hardiness in our “Sun¬ 
shine States” it has never been used 
as it should be here. Its hollyhock-like 
flowers are among the largest among 
the shrubs and come in a variety of 
colors as well as single and double. 
Several like “Bluebird”, “Hamabo” 
and “Coelestis” are very attractive. 

Most half-hardy shrubs in this area 
do better on the east side of a house 
where they are protected from the dry¬ 
ing winter sun and the severe winter 
winds. This shrub, however, seems to 
prefer a position on the south where 
it gets full sun but little wind. Even in 
the most favorable location Shrub- 
altheas may live ten years or only two. 
Because of their habit of blooming in 
fall when few other shrubs are in 
bloom, they are very much worth¬ 
while trying. 


Cornus racemosa 


DOGWOOD 

Everyone from the East, South o 
Pacific West knows and loves th 
Flowering Dogwood. But this plant ij 
not hardy here, so a few have learned 
the many good qualities of our nativif 
Redtwig Dogwood and plant it. Onl; 
a very few have discovered the useful! 
ness and beauty of the Gray Dog* 
wood, Cornus racemosa (paniculatap 
Because the flowers are small, it is no 
known for its bloom and the fruit beinjj 
an inconspicuous pearl-color does no 
make the shrub known for this quality 
The flowers are numerous, however 
as well as the fruits, and the whole ef 
feet of the plant is one of neatness anc 
compactness. It is rather taller thar 
broad and gets to be 8 to 10 feet tal 
in time. 

One must see this nice shrub to ap¬ 
preciate it. Gray Dogwod is worthy ol 
more extensive planting in this High 
Plains — Rocky Mountain region. 


234 


STATE PARKS DIRECTOR H. LATHROP DIES 

Arnold E. Perretin 

■ Harold W. Lathrop, State Parks and 
Recreation Director, died Tuesday, 
ugust 1st. He was born in Lancaster, 

/isconsin, June 21, 1901. 

Since 1924 he had devoted himself 
) parks development work. For 12 
jars he was director of State Parks in 
linnesota. In 1946 he became field 
:presentative for the National Recrea- 
on Association with headquarters in 
dieat Ridge, Colorado. 

Following the creation of the State 
arks and Recreation Board in 1957, 
athrop became its first director. He 
ipervised a comprehensive survey for 
state-wide Parks and Recreation de- 
dopment plan. 

Prior to Harold’s appointment as 
rector, Colorado was the only state 
i the union without a state park, 
ow, within 3 years, a number of ad- 
tional roadside parks have been de- 
doped. Cherry Creek Reservoir is 
pidly being developed into a state 
irk. Antero and Eleven Mile Reser- 
>irs are being developed and acreages 
e being purchased throughout the 
jate for future state parks. 

Horticulture has lost an efficient and 
.ithusiastic worker who had the con- 
ience of the members of both houses 


We are continually experimenting with plants suitable for ROCK GARDENS. 
We have a large selection of the old-timers, new, unusual and native plants. 

Many are in pots ready to set out at any time. We also have mature plants in 
our own rock garden to show you what they may eventually look like. 

COTTONWOOD GARDEN SHOP 

George and Sue Kelly 

4849 So. Santa Fe Drive, Littleton PY 4-0430 


of the state legislature. The work he 
has started will develop into a state 
park system of which Colorado can 
be proud. Such a system will be a 
worthy monument to Harold Lathrop. 


235 


DENVER 


ROSE SHOW 


DRAWS 7,200 


At 1:30 p.m., June 25, in the First 
National Bank lobby, Mrs. Dick Bat- 
terton, wife of Denver’s mayor, cut 
the ribbon opening the 13th annual 
show sponsored by the Denver Rose 
Society. When the doors closed four 
hours later, the tally of visitors was 
7,200. Hundreds were turned away. 

Entries in specimen classes totaled 
a record-breaking 846. Arrangements 
also set a record, 102. 

In attendance, number of entries, 
quality of roses, and in the spacious 
setting provided by the bank, this was 
one of the most successful shows ever 
staged by the Denver Rose Society. 

Show Chairman was Henry J. Con¬ 
rad; co-chairman, Clyde E. Learned. 
Mrs. Ray E. Turnure was chairman of 


arrangements; Mrs. C. B. Stricklei* 
chairman of niches; Ray E. Turnun 
chairman of judges. 

TROPHIES AND AWARDS 

SPECIMEN DIVISION 

Queen of the Show, Confidence, Her 
King. 

Best Group of Three, Crimson Glor 
Mr. and Mrs. L. G. Stuart. 

2nd Best Group of Three, Karl Herbs 
Herb King. 

Best Floribunda, Fashion, Mr. an 
Mrs. M. E. Nixon. 

Best Grandiflora, Queen Elizabetl 
Herb King. 

2nd Best Grandiflora, Pink Parfai 
Herb Gundell. 


Preserve the Health and Beauty of Your Trees With Swingle Care 

SWINGLE 

TREE SURGEONS 

620 SOUTH DAHLIA • DE 3-4417 • FR 7-8123 


236 


i Best Hybrid Tea, White Knight, 
Vtr. and Mrs. Clarence Jones. 

1 Best Group of Three, The Doctor, 
VIr. and Mrs. Clarence Jones. 

i Best Floribunda, Vogue, Laura 
Fisher. 

>t Peace, Mr. and Mrs. L. G. Stuart. 

it Hybrid Tea, (5 to 11 petals), 
Dainty Bess, Mr. and Mrs. Clarence 
lones. 

it Climber, Golden Showers, Casey 
D’Donnell. 

it Miniature, Dwarf King, Bertha 
McCullough. 

cognition Bowl, Mr. and Mrs. L. G. 
Stuart. 

eepstakes Bowl, Mr. and Mrs. L. G. 
Stuart. 


r 


MORGRO FERTILIZER 

The perfect all-around garden fertilizer. 
Morgro is truly a complete plant food, 
giving your garden all the mineral ele¬ 
ments essential to plant growth. Mor¬ 
gro is 25% available plant food con¬ 
taining 6% nitrogen, 10% phosphate, 
4% potash, plus 5% iron sulphate and 
small amounts of available boron, cop¬ 
per, calcium, manganese, magnesium, 
sulphur, zinc. Morgro is made particu¬ 
larly for intermountain soils and pro¬ 
duces a richer, greener growth that is 
easily seen in comparison to areas not 
fed with Morgro. The first choice of 
western gardeners and nurserymen. 

50-lb. bags.3.29 

100-lb. bags.6.50 

Write or call for our new 1961 catalog 

THE ROCKY MOUNTAIN 
SEED CO. 

1321 15th St. MA 3-6223 
Denver, Colo. 


LEE CHAMBERS 

1594 SO. FOREST 
)mplete Care and Maintenance 
of 

Trees, Shrubs and Evergreens 


SK 6-3366 


Gold Medal Certificates 

Queen of Show, Confidence, Herb 
King. 

Best Group of Three, Crimson Glory, 
Mr. and Mrs. L. G. Stuart. 

Silver Medal Certificates 

Second Best Single, White Knight, Mr. 
and Mrs. Clarence Jones. 

Best Floribunda, Fashion, Mr. and 
Mrs. M. E. Nixon. 

Bronze Medal Certificates 

Second Best Group of Three, The Doc¬ 
tor, Mr. and Mrs. Clarence Jones. 

Second Best Floribunda, Vogue, Laura 
Fisher. 

ARRANGEMENT DIVISION 

Niches, Mrs. Wm. T. Eccles. 

Spanish Missions, Herb Gundell. 

Best Beginner, Mrs. Pat Gallavan. 

Best Miniature, Mrs. Wm. T. Eccles. 

Certificates: 

Silver, Mrs. Wm. T. Eccles. 

Bronze, Herb Gundell. 


IMPORTED 

HOLLAND BULBS 

TULIPS - HYACINTH 
CROCUS 

All Top Size Bulbs 

See our new hybrid tulips 
Ask for price list 

Free delivery of orders $3.00 or over. 

SIMPSON SEED CO. 

1515 Champa TA 5-2279 


TREE SURGEON 

DENVER 20, COLORADO 


Custom Spraying 
Fully Licensed and Insured 


MEMBER 


Martin Schafer 

1892-1961 


Martin Schafer, who died suddenly 
of a heart attack on July 31st, at the 
age of 69, was almost a native of 
Colorado, having come to the state 
from Woodside, Long Island, 44 years 
ago. Seven years after moving here, he 
married Nora Marie Lee, who died in 
1958. He had one daughter, Irene, 
now Mrs. George Brotzman of Denver. 

From boyhood, Martin was inter¬ 
ested in growing plants and must have 
inherited a green thumb. Those who 
have known him in horticulture circles 
here, know that he never lost his en¬ 
thusiasm or his touch. 

People in the Montclair District will 
remember Martin as the one who nur¬ 
tured and protected their parks and 
parkways. He always called them “his” 
people and “his” people they were. 
They came to him with their lawn 
problems, their tree and flower prob¬ 
lems and he usually had the answer. If 
he didn’t, he could find it in his own 
horticulture library — as complete a 
home library as any college professor 
can boast. If the answer wasn’t there, 
he’d contact Fort Collins. 

Martin worked with the Denver 
Parks Dept, for nearly 30 years and 
was Supt. of the Montclair District. He 
personally set out most of the beautiful 
blue spruce and evergreen specimens 
we enjoy when we drive 6th, 17th and 
Monaco Pkwys. In amongst them, he 
had experimental trees and shrubs 
which he donated and cared for. Mar¬ 


HYPONeX 

Soluble PLANT FOOD Complete 


Grows Better Plants in Soil, Sand or Water 

tf/POikx g 

Preferred by millions of users for over 20 years. 
Simply dissolve and wafer your house plants, gar¬ 
den flowers, vegetables, shrubs and lawn. Clean! 
Odorless' Feeds instantly. If dealer can't supply, 
send $1 lor 10-or. can, postpaid. Makes 60 gallons. 


m 

HYDROPONIC CHEMICAL CO . Copley II. Oh,o. USA 


tin was a member of the Men’s Gard< 
Club of Denver and made real conti 
butions in the culture of chrysanth 
mums, glads, peonies and phlox. Lili 
were one of his favorites and he w 
always one of the first to try the ne| 
varieties. He was an active member j 
the Advisory Council of the Denv| 
4-H Clubs. Children and adults alii 
will remember the long patient houj 
he spent with young “victory” gardeS 
ers and with exhibitors at the 4- 
Fairs. 

The Girl Scouts had a flower bed ( 

17th Ave. Pkwy. which he helped the 
furnish and plant. Another troc[ 
planted tulips last fall, with his Icel¬ 
and, under his direction, they ke 
records of the bulbs from the time th< 
broke through the ground until th( 
went to seed. 

These are but a few of the areas 
which Martin will be missed. Nume 
ous are the living memorials to his lif 

Ed Wallace 

1 


READ THOSE PESTICIDE LABELS 


Robert I. Sullivan 1 


Public attention has been increasingly directed to agricultural chemicals 
cause of their more extensive use in recent years. This includes the use of 
emical controls for household and ornamental plant pests as well. 

The importance of chemical controls for pests is apparent from the in¬ 
easing levels of agricultural production, and from the contributions to the 
iblic health through control of flies, mosquitoes, rodents and other pests. 

All users of pesticides are urged to read and follow the manufacturer’s 
bel directions. A tremendous amount of research has gone into the preparation 
directions to assure safe and proper use without hazard. 

The Colorado Pesticide Act requires that the labeling for all Insecticides, 
mgicides, Rodenticides, Herbicides, Nematocides, Desiccants, Defoliants and 
rowth Regulators must be submitted to the Colorado Department of Agri- 
ilture for approval and registration, prior to sale or offering for sale, and such 
gistrations shall be renewed annually. 

The purchaser of any pesticide product has the assurance that all materials 
ive been screened at the time of registration to ascertain that IF USED 
CCORDING TO THE DIRECTIONS ON THE LABEL: 

1. There is no danger of poisoning to the user. 

2. Recommended application rates and concentrations are accurate. 

3. The claims for pests to be controlled are valid, and 

4. No toxic residue will remain that would prohibit the sale, or cause 
condemnation of harvested crops. 


The individual home gardener may also be assured that no deleterious 
:sticide residue will remain when the label directions have been followed. 

Generally speaking, the Colorado Pesticide Act was designed to protect 
e public by requiring that pesticide chemicals be labeled with adequate direc¬ 
ts and precautionary statements, which, when followed, will prevent the 
mtamination of foods with harmful residues. It is aimed at instructing the 
;er in the manner in which the product may be effectively and safely used so 
to encompass safety to beneficial plants and animals to which the materials 
*e applied, safety to wild life, to persons applying the materials or frequenting 
e treated areas and safety to those consuming foods treated with the particular 
lemical. 


1 From the Pesticide Section, Division of Plant Industry, Department of Agriculture, 
ate of Colorado. 


r n t 


4201 East 
SK 6-4040 
SP 7-7873 


H O nY P KEE 

'0%r andscapi 


SEI) & sons 

J (1 'ontractinq 


ping an 
Hi-Pressure Spraying and Tree Trimming 


Aerating Lawns 

AUTOMATIC UNDERGROUND SPRINKLING SYSTEMS 


239 


The following suggestions for the handling of pesticides will reduce a j 
hazards. 

1. READ AND FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS ON THE MANUFA j 
TURERS’ LABELS. 

2. Use the type of equipment recommended for handling a speci|J 
pesticide. 

3. Wash your hands and face before eating or smoking. 

4. Always have good ventilation when working in an enclosed area. 

5. Should the clothing become contaminated from spillage, immediate rj 
wash with soap and water, and change clothing. 

6. ALL EMPTY CONTAINERS SHOULD BE DISCARDED IN SUCJ 
A MANNER THAT THERE IS NO POSSIBILITY OF CHILDREf 
PLAYING WITH THEM. 

There is no case on record of anyone who has suffered any adverse effec; 
from the use of pesticide products when the directions on the label were rei; 
and followed. READ AND FOLLOW LABEL INSTRUCTIONS. 


The weedkillers are generally divided into the selective and non-selectiv. 
The selective weedkillers are used in the control of most broad-leafed wee(, 
and are available in the amine and ester forms. 

There is relatively little danger from the possibility of poisoning from t; 
2,4-D weedkillers, but extreme caution should be taken in applying these ml- 
terials so as to avoid the possibility of damage to adjacent susceptible plants frci 
wind drift. Even the vapors of the 2,4-D’s, on hot days, may cause damage to a* 
jacent susceptible plants. The possibility of damage is somewhat reduced with U 
Amines and the low volatile Iso-octyl Esters. 

Generally, 2,4-D or 2,4,5-T spraying equipment cannot be satisfactory 
cleaned to permit its use, without hazard, for spraying insecticides and funp 
cides on susceptible plants. This hazard may be somewhat reduced by cleanig 
2,4-D contaminated equipment with ammonia. Mixtures of water and ammon 
should be allowed to stand for 24 hours in the equipment being cleaned, makig 
certain that all connections, nozzles and other pieces or accessory parts at 
also cleaned. The unit should then be flushed with water and detergent, ail 
then with clear water, only. 


MEMBER 

Sellu fit off Slrlorist Service 


v* 

SPECIALISTS IN TREE CARE 

^OCIA^ 0 

HArrison 4-6112 


240 


| During the 1961 session of the General Assembly, legislation was enacted 
House Bill 271) to require anyone applying insecticides, fungicides or her¬ 
bicides, commercially, to be licensed by the Colorado Department of Agri¬ 
culture. The law does not apply to those engaged exclusively in structural pest 

ontrol work. 

Applicants for pesticide application licenses are required to pass a written 
xamination covering the proper uses and handling of pesticides. 

Licensing will be on an annual basis, and must be renewed by January 1 
>f each year. 

Require the man you hire to spray your trees or yard to present proof that 
le is licensed. He must be qualified as a pesticide applicator to be licensed. 


SEASONAL SUGGESTIONS 

Pat Gallavan 

Summer is on the wane here in the high plains area. Shorter days and 
:ooler nights signal the approach of Indian Summer and a major change in our 
gardens. Bright flowers of summer give way to the fall color scheme of yellow, 
bronze and lavender. This change, like other seasonal changes, should be 
recorded in your garden note book. Do not leave things to chance, get out and 
'see, then record the shrubs and flowers that make this autumn season so 
beautiful in our area. Perhaps you can have more color in your garden next 

fall. 

Speaking of planning for next fall, now is the time to plan and plant your 
beds of spring color. The fall bulbs: tulips, hyacinths, jonquils and others wil 
soon be on the market. If you have planned for them, an early selection will 
assure you of getting the color combinations you want. 

If you want some plants indoors this winter, now is the time to take 
cuttings of geraniums, begonias, coleus and other tender plants. For successful 
cuttings all you need is a new shoot 6 to 8 inches long with several leaves. 
Snip it off and place it in sand or pearlite until it roots. 

Also, for your indoor gardening pleasure, be sure to collect your dried 
seed pods’for winter arrangements. A Sunday drive in almost any direction will 
take you by a roadside weed patch that abounds with good material for dried 

arrangements. 

A special problem associated with our cooler nights is mildew. This 
whitish fungus attacks roses, phlox, zinnias and other plants causing the leaves 
to curl and damaging flower buds. Spraying with one of the new fungicides, 
like Phaltan, or actidione P.M. will help bring this disease under control. 

A final application of fertilizer can be applied to lawns any time before 
September 15. A complete fertilizer, one containing nitrogen, phosphorus and 
potash, is recommended for fall feeding. Fall is an excellent time to sow grass 
seed either for patching or for new lawns. Remember, that with new lawns, 
preparation of the soil is the most important aspect to consider. Use plenty ol 
humus and incorporate it well into the seed bed. 

Peonies, poppies and other early flowering perennials can be divided and 
transplanted. Take care that the peony buds or eyes are not covered by more 
than 1 Vi inches of soil. 


241 


GARDENING 


WITH 

COLORADO 
WILDINGS VI 

Ruth Ashton Nelson 


OUR RARE OR DIFFICULT SHRUBS 


It is true that the shrubs I am going 
to discuss in this article are rare in 
gardens. They are not rare in their 
natural habitats, and perhaps the only 
reason they seem to be difficult is that 
some of them grow in the sort of 
places from which it is almost impos¬ 
sible to transplant them. Now that 
Harry Swift is growing most of them 
from seed we may find that they are 
neither “rare” nor “difficult”. All of 
these species are very beautiful as 
they occur in the wild and if they can 
be made to seem at home they will be 
very valuable in horticulture. 

Fendlerbush, Fendlera rupicola, is 
a much branched shrub with narrow 
leaves an inch or two long and purple- 
tinged, somewhat square buds which 
open into pure white four-petaled 
flowers. Each of the petals is narrowed 
to a slender base and is slightly fringed 
around the blade. On the cliffs and in 
the canyons of our southwest where it 
often grows on limestone it blooms 
profusely in late May. I have one 
shrub of this which is blooming freely 
for the second season. It should have 
a very well-drained site and would 


probably appreciate a mulch of lime 
stone chips. If it can be propagate* 
and grown successfully it will be 
desirable shrub for our area. This is 
member of the saxifrage family. Thl 
rest of this group are all members of 
the rose family. 

Cliffrose, Cowania mexicana, is an 
other lovely southwestern shrub whic' 
is evergreen. I have not grown thi 
but am very enthusiastic over its pos 
sibilities after seeing it in flower in it 
natural setting. Harry Swift has seed 
lings of it and tells me it bloomed ii 
his nursery the second season fron 
seed. Its inch broad, fragrant flower) 
are of the wild rose pattern, pale yel 
low, about the color of Rosa hugonh 
and with deeper yellow stamens clus 
tered about the center. In fruit it ha’ 
plumed achenes similar to those o 
Mountain Mahogany. Its small, fine! 
divided, aromatic leaves are dark greei 
above and white-tomentose beneath 
This grows naturally on sandston 
ledges and cliffs where the old plant 
sometimes become small trees. It re 
quires plenty of sun and a very wel 
drained soil. 


242 


KROH BROS. NURSERIES 

Preferred Nursery Stock for the 
Rocky Mountain and Plains Regions 
ONE MILE NORTH OF LOVELAND HIGHWAY 287 


P. O. Box 536 


Loveland, Colorado 


Drop Card for Our Current Catalog 


WESTERN EVERGREENS, INC. 

A PROPAGATING NURSERY 

NATIVE TREES AND SHRUBS PRODUCED FROM SEED 
UNUSUAL SPECIES — MANY GROWN IN CONTAINERS 

14201 West 44th Ave., Golden, Colo. CR 9-1682 Harry M. Swift, Owner 


Squaw Apple, Peraphyllum ramosis- 
mum, grows naturally in bushy 
umps 3 to 6 feet tall, which become 
tvered in late May with clusters of 
agrant pink and white blooms some- 
hat smaller than crab-apple blossoms 
it otherwise very similar. Its leaves 
hich do not resemble apple leaves 
e narrow and 1 to 2 inches long, 
pering to the base, and often fasci- 
ed. The apple-like fruits are small, 
Tout half an inch in diameter, yellow 
ith red or brownish cheek and said 
) be very bitter. I have two specimens 
-owing well in my garden but they 
ave not bloomed yet, so I will try to 
mort on them later. 

! Antelope-Brush, Purshia tridentata, 
almost a miniature copy of the diff¬ 
use. Its fragrant flowers are similar 
at smaller and its leaves are almost 
ie same in appearance but mostly 
eciduous. Its achenes do not develop 
tie plumed tails of its larger relative. 

! grows throughout the Rockies on 
ry gravelly banks and about granite 
oulders. This is another one I have 
ot succeeded in growing. My ex- 
srience is that it is fussy about being 
ansplanted. Mrs. Marriage succeeded 
|i growing it but found that it soon 
jecame “overgrown” under garden 
pnditions. I believe that it is useful in 
ry situations but that where it is not 
aturally browsed by animals it should 
e kept shorn. I have seen it covering 


Peraphyllum ramosissimum 
in its native habitat 

road embankments with a handsome 
compact growth about 6 or 8 inches 
tall, where it was obviously much 
browsed. I am sure it will be valuable 
when we learn how to use it and put 
it in the right places. 

The last two shrubs in this group 
differ from most of the others I have 


243 


described in this and the preceding 
article in that they grow naturally in 
rich, moist soil. 

Mountain Ash, Sorbus scopulina, is 
at home in the high mountains, along 
streams and on steep rocky banks but 
where there is humus-rich soil between 
rocks. It is more shrub-like in growth 
than the European Mountain Ash 
which is frequently grown as an orna¬ 
mental tree in our area. This native 
species is similar in general appearance 
with its handsome pinnately compound 
leaves and clusters of bright orange- 
red berries. It will tolerate some shade 
and is valuable for autumn color of 
both foliage and fruit. 

Wahsatch Maple, Acer grandidenta- 
tum. This is a large shrub or small tree 


which is inclined to grow in a shrub 
form. It belongs to the hard maple 
group and in the canyons of the Wah¬ 
satch Mountains where it is native ii 
puts on a magnificent show of rose-rec 
autumn color. Robert More, Harold D 
Roberts and Kathleen Marriage were 
all very enthusiastic about its horticul¬ 
tural possibilities. There are now a fev 
specimens growing in Denver and ir 
Colorado Springs. It seems slow ir 
starting to make much growth anc 
mine have not yet put on any striking 
color display but I am hopeful tha 
they will. 

Any gardener who makes an effor| 
to obtain and is successful in growing 
one of this group of shrubs will, in m\ 
estimation, have something very much 
worthwhile. 


REPORT ON TERRACE AND GARDEN TOUR 

The Garden Club of Denver is happy to report that the Terrace and Gar 
den Tour was a success from every viewpoint. The gardens were all in excellen 
condition and showed to the very best advantage; the day was perfect for the 
tour and the response from the public was excellent. The net proceeds amountec 
to $2,010.00 which sum is to be used to assist in the development of the Denve 
Botanic Gardens. 

There were approximately 600 visitors, many of them being guests fron 
outside of the state who were delighted at the opportunity to see some of Deni 
ver’s finest gardens. There was no dearth of enthusiasm at each home for thil 
variety of landscaping plans was wide enough to keep guests’ interest sustained 
for the entire tour. Many people were intrigued by the skillful manner in whicl 
the well-planned terrace introduced them into the garden. 


Our hostesses and well-versed gardening experts were kept busy through, 
out the day identifying many unusual plants and explaining the choice of ma| 
terials used for background planting and ornamental display. The refreshmen! 
tables at the Arneill and Huntzicker gardens provided a welcome oasis for thil 
pilgrims. 230 tickets were sold at the gates indicating that the fine advanci 
publicity paid off rather well. 


We wish to thank all who participated in making this event a success. Ou 
special thanks to the hostesses and experts, to the people and companies wh<i 
helped us to sell tickets, to those who so graciously allowed their gardens and ter 
races to be shown and to the members of the Terrace and Garden Tour Com 
mittee: Mesdames Raymond Sargent, John Mitchell, Kenneth Malo, John Well 
born. Brown Cannon, Richard Davis, Willett Moore, Samuel B. Childs, Arthu 
Rydstrom and B. K. Sweeney, Jr. 


Mrs. J. Kiernan Weckbaugh 


244 


THE BARNUM PARKWAY 


S. R. DeBoer 


Barnum Lake 

Denver Skyline in Background 


On my way to Barnum my little 
lorse who knew all the shortcuts better 
han I did got stuck in the grounds of 
Villa Park School. There was a sort of 
buffalo wallow there and the dirt trail 
|an through it. The mud reached to 
he floor boards of my new buggy but 
lifter a period of uneasy resting, we got 
out. This was around 1914. 

j In this seventh decade of the twen¬ 
tieth century 1 suppose there are no 
people in Denver who can make sense 
out of my title, so I hasten to say there 
is no Barnum Parkway and you may 
substitute Barnum Park if you wish. 
My story, however, begins with a park¬ 
way. At one time it was a very live 
issue in Denver. Every park adminis¬ 
tration had been severely criticized for 
concentrating on east Denver. Chees- 
man Park, City Park and all the park- 
i ways were pointed at to show the 
i neglect of west Denver. Early write¬ 
ups referred to the Montclair park 
roads as Kansas City Parkways be- 
i cause they were far out from the city s 
j built up area. 


Tree Plantings in Barnum Park 


We had acquired two blocks of land 
on Hooker and West Fifth Avenue on 
a bare hilltop overlook point similar to 
Inspiration Point but with a view to 
the city. We had planted some trees 
there but the whole of Barnum was an 
isolated spot. P. T. Barnum, of circus 
fame, had laid out a large subdivision 
but outside of a circuitous street car 
line it had practically no connection 
with the city and the Barnum clay was 
terrible. The Eighth Avenue viaduct 
and bridge did not come until 15 years 
later. Mayor Ben T. Stapleton and 
Manager Charles D. Vail, two men 
who have contributed so much to the 
beauty of Denver, were very conscious 
of the plight of the people of Barnum. 

As early as 1923 we had a proposed 
extension of the park area to include 
the Wier Gulch bottom with a lake 
and large park and following the policy 
of that period we felt we could connect 
the park with Sloans Lake Park on one 
side and with the park land we had 
on Alameda Avenue and the Platte 
River on the other side. We went north 


245 


of Sloans Lake to Berkeley and had in 
mind a connection to the East Denver 
parkways. 

The Barnum Parkway was a scenic 
one. It followed over the bluffs to the 
high point in the park and over Dry 
Gulch to Colfax Avenue. The survey 
was run by Louis Douglass who later 
became Chief Dam Engineer of Recla¬ 
mation and for whom the Barnum 
Lake Dam was child’s play. 

The north Denver Park District had 
to vote on the whole program of land 
acquisition, including an extension of 
North Speer Boulevard to Berkeley 
and we had many meetings. My job 
usually was to explain the plan and 
Mr. Vail carried on from there. The 
meeting in Barnum was interesting. A 
park policeman by the name of Abe 
drove us out there. I asked him how 
come he was there. “Oh,” he said, 
“The boss thought you might need 
some protection”. The meeting was a 
very quiet one compared with later 
ones in north Denver. 

We were defeated and the Barnum 
Parkway died unborn. The park idea, 
however, stuck and in the City Plan of 
1929 it was still there as well as the 
road connection to Sloans Lake, but 
much subdued. The Speer extension 
remained on the plan and in the first 
regional plan it continued to Arvada 
and Coal Creek Canyon. My beautiful 
scenic Barnum line, on top of a bluff 
overlooking the city, disappeared. 


Your Lawn Problems Become Ours . . . 


Committees from Barnum waited or ;1 
the Mayor promoting the Barnum ParL 
and they even erected a small fountain n 
Times had changed. The post War o 
peak had changed to a period of lov<>! 
economy. Denver real estate had beeU 
cheap since the nineties, now D 
dropped still lower. Tremendous area;^ 
had been platted into 25 foot lots. Th< si 
whole area of open prairies from CitV 
Park to Fitzsimons, from Harmon tc> ( 
Fairmount and to the University fron^ 1 
Federal to Sheridan had been platted i& 
When we caught our breath in 1936^ 
the City Planning Board (I was thei:ai 
planner) mapped the lots on whicD 
people had quit paying taxes . . . taL 
delinquent lots, in other words. Thenp 
were nearly 40,000 of them. Ie! 


“You cannot show this map to any- 
one,” Mayor Stapleton said. “It wil 
create a panic.” I did not but we laicE 
our park proposals on top of the ta> 
delinquent map and lo and behold 
there was Barnum Park, Ruby Hill 
and many others. At the Mayor’s or 
ders these lots were not offered for ta? 
sale. There were no buyers anyway 
Charlie Pitschke, one time building in 
spector, bought a lot of them but coulc 
not hold them. Looking back, the de 
pressed years did a lot of good, the) 
sobered people. Many lost in the stocl- 
market but a great deal of it had beer 
speculation on margin buying. 


The taxes on the delinquent proper¬ 
ties had to be paid and under Pari 


When You Call . . . . 


LAWN MANAGEMENT COMPANY 


WE 5-5938 

Call Today for Complete Lawn Service 
L. David Engholm, Horticulturist 


246 


: anager, Leroy Hinman, we had 
i ough land to make new plans for the 
rk. In the meantime the new U. S. 

I d. 6 highway was built and the High¬ 
ly Department built a dam in Wier 
• alch which made the Barnum Lake 
Lssible. In this connection I would 
:e to mention Dan Ormsbee whose 
Lion and love for Denver parks drew 
e design for a 6th Avenue underpass 
nder Federal Boulevard which in- 
juded the design for a dam in Wier 
ulch. Under Dave Abbott, Director, 
id Bill Greim, Manager, Barnum 
■ irk finally became a reality. From 
e time that I was stuck in the mud 
I Villa Park School until today must 
ive been 45 years, nearly one-half of 
Denver’s total age! 


We now have Barnum Park. Let us 
iok at the beautiful irregular shore 
Ue of the lake much enhanced by 
tractive grading and planting by the 


The Denver Forestry & Landscape 
Company 

Call us for your Tree Spraying, Trimming 
and Removal 

In Denver Since 1918 

7505 E. Harvard PLaza 5-0363 


two “Eds”, Wallace and Johnson, park 
landscape architects. The park has a 
swimming pool, ballgrounds, small 
tot’s playgrounds on various levels, a 
formal lawn and still the beautiful 
overlook point. It has about all you 
could wish for in recreation, the regular 
supervised play facilities and the in¬ 
formal relaxing spots for picnicking, 
for fishing, for hiking and what not. 
The annual “Show Wagon” is a big 
factor here. You know, of course, that 
this is one of “Curly” Schlupp’s con¬ 
tributions to America’s recreation. Be 
sure and visit Barnum Park. 


MOUNTAIN PEAT 
FERTILIZERS 

Nursery Stock and Evergreens 

McCoy & Jensen 

Nursery located 1 mi. west of South 
Wadsworth on the Morrison Road 

Morrison, Colorado 
YUkon 5-1504 


MARSHALL NURSERIES 

Better Built Trees — Landscaping with Personality 

5825 W. 16th Avenue BEImont 7-0445 


Swingle Tree Surgeons offer a complete service to preserve the Beauty 
and Health of your trees, Evergreens, and shrubs. 

SWINGLE 

TREE SURGEONS 

620 So. Dahlia • DE 3-4417 • FR 7-8123 


247 


I 


Pete 


Dear Pete, 

Each spring our tulips bloom early 
and are ruined by spring snowstorms. 
Can I do something to delay their 
bloom? 

Missa Storm 

Dear Missie, 

Oh, to invent a weather moderator! 
These suggestions might help. Select 
late blooming varieties as the Darwins 
or May-flowering bulbs. Plants will 
bloom earlier if on the south or west. 
Nearness to brick or rock walls which 
retain heat will contribute to early 
blossoming. Depth of planting bulbs 
is our best control. In eastern U.S.A. 
where winter is winter and spring comes 
to stay, bulbs are planted 6 to 8 inches 
deep. Depending on soil plant bulbs 
at least 12 inches deep here; in fact, 
in very sandy soil tulips will be happy 
at 18 inches. 

A novice gardener questioned Mrs. 
Geo. Garrey, bulb enthusiast, how 
deep should he plant 5,000 tulips. Her 
sage reply, “You must dig just one 
mile.” 

Dear Pete, 

Some friends offered lilacs for plant¬ 
ing in our shrubless yard. Must we 
wait until spring to move them? 

Lilac Yenny 


DIG ONE MU-E 


1 


TRAN5PlftNT JLU.ACS 


Dear Yen, 

No, lilacs are one of the few shrub: 
which prefer fall planting here. Doubt 
ing George Kelly, who rightly quesj 
tions most teachings from eastern garl 
deners, has found repeatedly that lilac: 
welcome movers soon after shedding 
their leaves. 


248 


? ? * 

• • • 

)ear Pete, 

Do apples from Hopa crab make 
ood jelly? 

Hopaful 

)ear Hopa, 

Nopa! They make jelly but not 
ood. The Grosbeaks on their north- 
pound flight usually plan a week’s 
Itopover here in spring just to munch 
eeds from the Hopa crab. 

Dolgo, which has white flowers, 
>ears brilliant red fruit delicious for 
elly and pickles. 


NATION’S LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS 
MEET IN COLORADO 


For the first time in history the American Society of Landscape Architects 
ield its Annual meeting in the land of “cowboys and Indians”. The Rocky 
fountain Chapter, consisting of some thirty members, (did you know there 
vere so many landscape architects in our region?) acted as hosts at the Harvest 
-louse Hotel in Boulder. Meetings were from July 10 to 12. 


“Vacation in Colorado” was the theme and from the excellent response in 
lumbers from the society members and their families, the convention was the 
JEST and will be long remembered. 


Nationally known individuals from the design professions participated in 
he meetings, such as: 


Professor Patrick Horsbrugh of the University of Nebraska and University 
pf London, who did work on the Festival of Britain, London Town Planning 
and the federal capitals of Pakistan and Burma. 


Professor Robert B. Mitchell, Director of the Institute of Urban Studies, 
University of Pennsylvania. 

Chester C. Brown, Chief Recreation Resources Planning of the National 
Parks Service. 


Douglas Baylis, A.S.L.A. California, and John Ormsbee Simonds A.S.L.A. 
Pittsburgh, Penn. 

Dr. A. C. Hildreth, Director Denver Botanic Gardens, James M. Hunter, 
Architect, Boulder, and Dr. Richard Beidleman, Director National Science 
Foundation Programs, Colorado College. 

Timely topics, important to landscape architects and members of design 
I professions, were discussed mainly in panels of experts. Among them were 

I 


249 


Design and Climate, Landscape Architecture and the Planning Arts, Scienc 
Influencing Design, Art or Planning in Design, Design in Public Office, Drean 
and Reality. 

Combining business with pleasure, many wives and families accompanie< 
their husbands to the convention. 

An excellent ladies’ program was planned by Mrs. Ed Wallace, assisted b; 
chapter wives, and President Julia Jane Silverstein. The women assisted a 
hostesses, greeting the arrivals, answering questions and providing the “Westeri 
charm of the Rockies”. 

Ladies’ programs included a “Get Acquainted Coffee Bonsai”. Thi 
“Bonsai” was presented by George Fukuma at pool side. 

Naturally a shopping tour was planned in Downtown Denver, so the ladie:, 
could buy all those little items on their lists for the folks back home; it wai 
followed by luncheon at the Petroleum Club and a tour of the Denver Are; 
conducted by Mrs. Louisa Ward Arps. 

The latter also had written “Botanizing with Edwin James” (July numbeJ 
Green Thumb), which acted as a guide for the extensive Tuesday Field Trip 
for all. 

The Field Trip included well over 150 people, in nine buses. It was a tou< 
via Denver to the Air Force Academy (with inspection), the Garden of th( 
Gods and ending with a western chuck wagon dinner at the “Flying W” Ranch 

Even though the weather was a little on the wet side (under statement) 
this didn’t dampen anyone’s spirits and enthusiasm. It was pronounced “tops’ 
by all participants. At least as good was the Thursday Field Trip to Rockj 
Mountain National Park, under guidance of Dr. Hildreth and Dr. Mora<f 
Shubert. 

COLORFUL OUTDOOR EXHIBIT 

Exhibits were displayed by prominent national manufacturers associatec; 
with landscape development. A carnival spirit was provided with colorful plastic 
panels, outdoor exhibit spaces and tent, resplendent with music and congenia] 
conversation. 

The center of attraction for most people was the creative native planting 
and flagstone designs by the local landscape architects with materials provided 
by local Colorado nurseries and Colorado Stone Company. 

Many commendations and thanks go to the local chapter members and; 
associated professions. Without everyone’s help our successful convention could 
not have taken place in Colorful Colorado ’. Sam L. Huddleston, as Trustee 
from the Rocky Mountain Chapter was able to procure enthusiastic cooperation 
from the officers and directors of the National A.S.L.A. 

Preliminary foundations had been laid by the Spring Issue of “Landscape! 
Architecture” under guidance of M. Walter Pesman, Special Editor, and Profes¬ 
sor Stanley White, formerly of Univ. of Illinois, now in Denver. It showed what! 
the members could expect upon coming to the Arid Land of Sunshine. 

Around three hundred and fifty people attended the meeting. 

Gerald F. Kessler 


250 


Have you renewed your membership in the Denver Botanic Gardens? 
Don’t miss an issue of The Green Thumb 


Queen Ann Guest Cottage, Los Angeles State and County Arboretum 


OS ANGELES STATE & COUNTY ARBORETUM 

Dr. William S. Stewart, Director 

« I. 

In 1948 Los Angeles County was the only major metropolitan area in the 
nited States that lacked an arboretum or botanic garden. The Southern Cali- 
;rnia Horticultural Institute, one of the oldest horticultural organizations 
the area, recognized this need and set up an active arboretum committee, 
horough investigation of areas around Los Angeles resulted in selecting the 
te of the present Arboretum. Climatically speaking, it is in one of the more 
vored areas in the nation. This site is located on the northern edge of the San 
abriel Valley, just east of Pasadena, in the beautiful city of Arcadia, and a 
ant twenty-five minutes from downtown Los Angeles. Then it became neces- 
ry to convince State and County officials of the value of an arboretum to the 
immunity; and, in that same year, it was purchased jointly by the State and 
aunty just in time to save it from subdivision. 

One hundred and twenty-seven acres were acquired in this purchase. This 
:e contains one of the few natural bodies of water in Southern California, a 
•ring-fed lagoon covering about five and one-half acres of land. In addition, 
had within its boundaries three buildings of great historical significance. 

The area had once been the heart of the famous Rancho Santa Anita, 
rmerly part of the Mission San Gabriel lands. The first private owners were 


251 


Hugo Reid, who was called the Scotch paisano, and his Indian wife, Donn 
Victoria, a woman of charm and culture, to whom the Mission fathers ha< 
given the land in appreciation of her housekeeping services at the Mission 
Aside from the wickiups of the Gabrielino Indians, they erected in 1839 th 
first building in the area, a three room adobe house and an enclosed courtyan 
with high adobe walls. Inside the courtyard were cooking facilities, a garden 
and an outdoor eating area under a reed-covered patio structure called a ramad£ 

The Rancho changed owners several times from the Reids, who did nci 
obtain title to the property until 1841, up to 1875, when the fabulous E. J 
“Lucky” Baldwin purchased the land. Mr. Baldwin, with his great wealth frori 
the silver mines, preferred to live in the remodeled adobe, but he added 
guest house, the “Queen Anne Cottage”, built in the gaudy design of the Vic 
torian era, and a coach barn equally pretentious. He also had extended hi 
holding to more than sixty thousand acres, which, at the time of his death i 
1907, was divided among his heirs. By 1947, most of this acreage had bee 
sold and subdivided, leaving only the one large parcel, for which subdivisions 
plans had already been drawn. 

This historical area provides a unique opportunity to show two importar 
phases of California history — the simple agrarian life of the “Hide and Tallow 
era of the early 1800’s, and the lavish mode of living which followed the dis 
covery of gold in 1849. Fortunately, following the death of Mr. Baldwin i 
1907, the ornate appointments of the Queen Anne Cottage, such as staine 
glass windows from England, crystal chandeliers and marble fireplaces, ha 
been crated and stored in the coach barn. Forty years later, these treasure 
were carefully restored in the Cottage which was then authentically refurnishec 
Because the Hugo Reid Adobe had been remodeled by successive owners, : 
was completely rebuilt by the State of California Department of Beaches an 
Parks after a great amount of preliminary research involving archeological e* 
cavations and perusal of existing archives. After this extensive work was accorr 
plished, it too was carefully and authentically refurnished with the artifact 
of the era. The entire historical area is located on the south side of the lagoo 
in a truly romantic setting. 

The parklike area between the Queen Anne Cottage and the coachbar 
is one of the favorite haunts of the famous Baldwin peacocks. A few pair: 
imported by Mr. Baldwin in the late 80’s from India, were permitted to ru 
wild, and, through the years, increased to a flock of a hundred and fifty bird: 

Around this fragment of the past is developing one of the most moder 


FOR A COMPLETE SELECTION OF NURSERY STOCK, 
GARDEN PERENNIALS AND ROCK GARDEN PLANTS 


Come to 


HA 2-1481 


CREATIVE GARDENS 

EVERGREEN AND SHADE TREES 
ALL PLANTS CONTAINER GROWN 

• 55th and Wadsworth BYPASS 


252 


VIEW OF 
ENTERTAINING 
GARDEN 
IN 

DEMONSTRA¬ 
TION 
HOME 
GARDENS 


iarboretums in the world. In 1948, the California Arboretum Foundation, Inc., 
a non-profit corporation, was formed to administer the Arboretum for the 
!County. The Foundation Board of Trustees was composed originally ot the 
members of the Southern California Horticultural Institute Arboretum Com- 
: mittee, augmented by other public spirited citizens with wide horticultural and 
historical interests. This Board formulated the master plan and began develop¬ 
ment of the grounds. It also set up a list of nine objectives which is the guide 
for development of the Arboretum. Under these objectives, the Arboretum is 

to serve as: 

1. A horticultural center for Southern California. 

2. A center for the introduction, testing and improvement of plants 
adaptable to Southern California. 

3. A gardening school for training gardeners, garden superintendents, 
propagators and other skilled personnel. 

4. A center of research and scientific study, working in collaboration 
with educational institutions and with Federal, State and County 
departments of agriculture. 

S An information center maintaining a complete catalogue of all plants 
cultivated in Southern California, where specimens can be readily 
identified, and practical advice given on planting, propagation and 

cultivation. 


253 


6. A library and herbarium. 

7. A publication center for bulletins, books and pamphlets of horticul¬ 
tural, botanical and historical interest. 

8. A preserve of early California architecture and authentic historical 
gardens. 

9. A bird sanctuary. 

The Foundation is also responsible for the line orchid collections housed; 
in four greenhouses. Foundation members take a keen interest in the Arboretum 
and donations of books, botanical prints, plants and equipment for research 
are received from this source. 


In 1953, the interest and support of a progressive County Board of Super-; 
visors was demonstrated when it voted to create a County Department of 
Arboreta and Botanic Gardens to assume management of the Arboretum, leaving 
the Foundation free to devote its energies to those activities of benefit to the: 
Arboretum which could not be carried on with tax funds. The rapid progress 
being made in development is largely the result of this enlightened decision. 

A good master plan is a prerequisite for a successful arboretum. In devel¬ 
oping the plan for the Los Angeles State and County Arboretum, it was decided 
to use geographical and ecological groupings rather than the plant family 
groupings commonly used in older arboreta. The four major areas of the 
Arboretum are devoted to plantings from the four areas of the world which 


JUNGLE 

AREA 

and : 


LAGOON 


save a climate similar to this section of Southern California — South Africa, 
he Mediterranean, Australia, and the Latin Americas, Mexico, Central America 
nd South America. 

The plantings in general are about fifty percent completed. The Aus- 
ralian Section already contains a collection of more than three hundred species 
nd varieties of Eucalyptus and approximately two hundred species of Acacia, to 
nention two of the major groups. In the South African Section, the meadow of 
omposites attracts many visitors and the Aloe collection is outstanding. The 
-atin American and Mediterranean Sections have lagged due to storm drain 
onstruction and an elaborate new entry way now under construction. (One of 
he features of the new entryway will be a tropical water lily pool 250 feet by 
20 feet, with automatic temperature controls to permit planting of the Vic- 
oria Regina Lilies with their large lily pads.) 

In addition to the above mentioned sections, there are special gardens 
nd display areas. The Oriental Section contains those plants from all sections 
>f the Orient which will grow here. The Herb Garden is one of the largest in 
!he Country — its fast development being largely due to the active interest 
md support of the Southern California Unit of the Herb Society of America, 
k Jungle Area, located on the north side of the lagoon, is a major attraction 
or young and old. In it many of the scenes for the Tarzan and other jungle 
novies have been filmed. Adjacent to the jungle is the Palm and Bamboo 
>ection which contains over sixty kinds of bamboo and over forty species of 
)alms. 

On Tallac Knoll, a small hill in the southwest corner of the Arboretum, 
$ an Economic Plant Collection, which at present, includes twenty-one varieties 
>f avocadoes being tested on varieties of understock grafts, members of the 
itrus family growing on dwarfing root stock, and numerous fruit trees, such 
■is apples, apricots, cherimoya, cherries, peaches, pears and sapote, also for 
Various testing purposes. The fruit trees permit giving fruit tree pruning demon¬ 
strations as was done last February. Up the hill from the economic plantings 
ire collections of flowering trees and one of the finest collections of ornamental 
igs in the United States. On top of the knoll is a small amphitheater in which 
:rows a Tropical Garden of plants which are frost tender even in this area. 
Orchard heaters are provided here for winter protection. Immediately adjacent 
o the Tropical Garden is the Biblical Garden for the plants mentioned in the 
Bible. At the base of the hill is a new addition, a garden of old fashioned roses, 
kmongst beautifully designed pergolas are planted 292 rose bushes, part of them 
)redating the year of 1839, and the remainder from 1839 to 1900. Close by are 
hree acres of the Annual and Perennial Display Gardens which are very 
)opular. This garden contains the largest collection of day-lilies on the west 
:oast, and the changing displays of the annuals from cool weather to warm 
veather types continually draw expressions of delight from the visitors. 

The Propagation Center is located in the northeastern extremity of the 
grounds. Two large greenhouses, each 34 feet by 100 feet, are electronically 
ontrolled for forced air heat and humidity, and are of aluminum construction, 
"hese are for propagating and research projects. In addition, there is a well 
iquipped plant records office with label making equipment, seed cleaning 
quipment, and ample room for files and storage. Complete records have been 
naintained on all plant material and seed received since the first seed was 
)lanted in 1949. 31,000 accessions of seeds, plants and bulbs have been 

ecorded so far. 


255 


The centrally located Administration Building, occupied in November 
1956, contains executive offices and a small Seminar room. Its Library Wing 
completed in June, 1959, contains, in addition to the library, the herbariun 
which is still small, listing 4,000 specimens, but coming along rapidly. In th( 
lower level of this wing is a large lecture hall which can be divided, if need be 
into four lecture rooms by the use of folding partitions. The library, itself, wa; 
started in 1957 with 5,000 bound volumes and 10,000 pamphlets. At the end o 
January, 1961, the records show 8,565 bound volumes and 17,900 pamphlets 
the latter being recorded like the books in order to keep accurate account o 
withdrawals. A modern service building contains up-to-date facilities for fer 
tilizer and tool storage as well as special screened-compost bins and a larg( 
soil mixing area, in addition to a garage and shop. 

The Gatehouse, completed in 1956, with adequate turnstiles, enabled the 
Arboretum to be opened to the public on a seven-day-a-week basis. Attendant 
has been increasing at such a constant rate that, with a count of 385,804 fo 
1960, it can be assumed the count for 1961 should run well over 400,000 
Jeep trains, furnished and maintained by the California Arboretum Founda 
tion, Inc., conducted by trained guides operate on a half hour schedule ever} 
day from 10:30 A.M. to 4:00 P.M. Mornings of every school day are active 
with many school field trips which are handled on a reservation basis anc 
conducted by skilled personnel. 

Editor’s Note — In the next issue of The Green Thumb, Part II of The Lo: 
Angeles State and County Arboretum article will present the educationa 
facilities available at the arboretum. 


GENEROUS GIFT TO BOTANIC GARDENS 

Kathryn Kalmbach 

Two thousand specimens of correctly-labeled and well-pressed plants rep¬ 
resent a large amount of dedicated work. 

The Denver Botanic Gardens received this generous gift from Dr. Johr 
Hartwell’s collections in Colorado Springs. 

Of special interest in this addition to the herbarium are Oaks, Willows! 
and—yes—Weeds. So many people disdain weeds in their collecting that little is 
known about them by the average person. 

Dr. John Hartwell, (1878-1957), a well-known surgeon in Colorado 
Springs, through his devoted interest in plants, became also one of Colorado’s 
outstanding botanists. His knowledge and interest were appreciated highly 
by his many scientific friends. 

Meetings of the Denver Botany Club were frequently attended by him 
he was always able to contribute something of interest. 

Dr. C. William Penland, botanist at Colorado College, relates an interesting 
episode in Dr. Hartwell’s career. A grateful patient had presented Dr. Hart¬ 
well with a fine dissecting microscope. When Dr. Penland showed him how tc 
study the parts of a plant with the aid of this microscope. Dr. Hartwell was sc 
delighted he became an avid collector of plant specimens, an interest main¬ 
tained with undiminished enthusiasm throughout all his remaining years. Ever 
after his crippling strokes he was able to use his beloved microscope with some 
clever clamps and aids which he invented. 


256 


Dr. Hartwell at work on his herbarium specimens 

Dr. Hartwell was a graduate of Yale and of Harvard Medical School. 
|is early life was spent in the East, where, in 1914, he married Mariam Gile, 

; hose father was a Professor at Colorado College. The parents of Doctor and 
ilfrs. Hartwell were long-time friends. The mothers were school mates and 
| equent visitors to Colorado. 

In 1917 Dr. Hartwell enlisted in the Army and was stationed at Fort 
Liley, Kansas, until the end of World War I in the following year. 

1 During his later years he took a course in mycology with Dr. Penland, 
js he was much interested in the study of molds in the medical field. 

Whoever uses the Botanic Gardens Herbarium in the future will be grate- 
jil to Dr. Hartwell for the painstaking work he put into his collecting, enrich- 
ig all plant lovers. We owe him and Mrs. Hartwell much gratitude for the 

lift. 

i 

If 


New National Monuments and National Parks are being con¬ 
sidered now. Read about some of them in the next issue of The 
Green Thumb. 


257 


Scoops by 

Mrs. John Scott 

Gardening is an around-the-calendar project, with perhaps even mo 
activity in the fall than in the spring. Let’s begin with bulbs. Everyone expec I 
bulb planting to dominate garden work during autumn months. There are tl 
newer varieties of the old faithfuls such as tulips, daffodils and lilies. 

Various kinds of flowering onion ( Allium ) are sweeping the gardensid 
Everybody’s got ’em or gettin’ ’em — tuberosum, white; moly, yellow; stellatur | 
pink; caeruleum, blue; flavum, yellow; senescena glaucum, lavender and ^c/ze/ 2 (;| 
parsum, rose-purple. The bloom is sweetly scented. The foliage and stems, 
crushed, have a slight onion scent. They are long-lasting as cut flowers, seeminj 
ly unattractive to the bugs and have interesting seed heads for winter bouquet: 

If you don’t already have these bulbs in your garden, try a few of then i 
The Broadiaeas include the floral firecracker plant, Brodiaea coccinea. Tfj I 
Calochortus answers to Mariposa Tulips, which may need to be planted ai ; 
nually. Camassias have spires of starry flowers recommended for cuttin; 
Chionodoxa or Glory-of-the-snow, will increase and improve with the year \ 
Colchicum, sometimes called Bare Dames, have been highly advertised as 
novelty. 

With bulbs that naturalize easily, such as Crocus, throw handfulls of tlj | 
corms over the surface (ground covers or uncut grasses good) and plant whei: * 
they fall or roll, for natural effects called “drifts”. 

Erythronium, also known as Troutlilies or Dogtooth Violets, prefer ligl 
shade and moist soil. Fritillaria is thought to be temperamental, sometime- 
growing well, sometimes not. This Crown Imperial likes limy soil, slight shad 
and July planting. 

Leucojum wants to stay put and, if moved, may stop blooming for on 
or more years. It likes leafmold in either sun or shade. There are two commo 
varieties known as Spring Snowflake and Summer Snowflake. The latter M i 
more flowers per stem. Licoris squamigera, or Amaryllis halli, resents moving 
too. Puschkinia is another home lover, but if the blooms show a reduction ov& 
the seasons separate and transplant them. All the above are left in the groun: 
the year around, a boon to those who resent digging and storing Dahlia; 
Tigridas, Cannas, etc. 

Many perennials can be moved now — any that are dormant or the decide 
ous that are out of leaf. In general, move only the early bloomers and leave th 
late flowering ones alone. Peonies, of course, are a must for fall. If you’re buyin 
peonies get some with the ornamental foliages and those recommended fc 
flower arranging. 

Authorities differ on when to plant the Christmas and Lenten Rose; 
Helleborus niger and H. orientalis and other species such as H. cyclophyllm 
H. foetidus and H. virdis. Arthur and Mildred Luedy, authors of “The Christ 
mas Rose”, say H. altifolius is the largest and most beautiful variety. The im 
portant thing is to plant some because they bloom when most other flower 
are dormant — anytime from November to March, depending upon nature 
whims. Hellebores like our alkaline soil, partial shade and shelter, and a ric: 
soil. Roots go down 18 inches or more. These plants are tops for cutting. 

Rhubarb and asparagus can be moved in September, too. Carrot, salsify 
parsnip, beet and other vegetables will bloom in ’62 if seeded right away. Thes 
make different, enduring, economical design materials. 


258 


INFORMATION SERVICE AT DENVER BOTANIC 

GARDENS 


The Denver Botanic Gardens receive many requests for the names of 
officers of the various garden clubs and plant societies and often we are unable 
to be of assistance because we do not have an up-to-date roster of these names. 
We shall appreciate receiving a list of the names of the officers of such groups 
in this area, together with their addresses and telephone numbers. With this 
information we can assist interested people in contacting a responsible person 
in any particular group. 

We now have lists for the following organizations: 

DENVER BOTANIC GARDENS JUNIOR COMMITTEE 
COLORADO FEDERATION OF GARDEN CLUBS, INC. 
MEN’S GARDEN CLUBS OF COLORADO 
THE DENVER ROSE SOCIETY 
GARDEN CLUB OF DENVER 

We have no lists for the independent garden clubs nor for the rest of the 
plant societies and plant study clubs in this area. We shall be happy to act as 
liaison agent between your organization and the inquiring public. Send this 
information to: 


DENVER BOTANIC GARDENS 
909 York Street 
Denver 6, Colorado 


DENVER'S LARGEST SELECTION 
OF FINEST 

IMPORTED HOLLAND BULBS 


DENVER'S 


A Complete Line of Flowering 
Shrubs, Shade Trees and 


Popular Brand-Name Lawn 
and Grass Seeds 
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Denver's Garden Center 

2645 W. Alameda Ave. 


Write or call for 
free catalogue 

WE 5-3528 


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DENVER BOTANIC GARDENS 
909 YORK STREET 

DENVER 6, COLORADO 


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"75 Years — Celebrating Our Diamond Jubilee of Service" 


A visit to our garden shop is a rewarding experience 
for the gardening enthusiast. Here you'll find a com¬ 
plete line of garden tools, insecticides and plant 
foods and other gardening accessories ... all 
displayed in attractive surroundings. Courteous, ex¬ 
perienced people are on hand to serve you. May we 
see you soon? 

74 Years Experience in the Denver Area. 


W. WILMORE 

A/u/to<yueo£/y*c. 

WEST 38TH AVENUE AND WADSWORTH 
WHEATRIDGE • HA 4-5584 


Magazine for Rocky Mountain Gardeners 


INDEX TO ADVERTISERS 


Advertiser Page 

Alameda Nursery, Inc. Inside Back Cover 

Chambers, Lee — Tree Surgeon. 289 

Cottonwood Garden Shop — George and Sue Kelly. 293 

Denver Forestry and Landscape Company. 291 

Fertosan — Compost Accelerator, Western Seed Co. 293 

Hydroponic Chemical Co. — Hyponex Plant Food . 291 

Miff Garden Nursery. Inside Front Cover 

Keesen, Anthony & Sons — Sprinkling Systems. 265 

t 

Marshall Nurseries . 291 

McCoy & Jensen Nursery. 293 

Rocky Mountain Seed Co. 293 

Schulhoff Arborist Service. 284 

South Denver Evergreen Nursery. 285 

Swingle Tree Surgeons. 276-288 

W. W. Wilmore Nurseries, Inc. Back Cover 


ILIFF GARDEN 
NURSERY 

Fall Bulbs—Daffodils, Tulips, 
Hyacinths and all the little 
bulbs. 

Notice to Landscapers and Nurserymen—We offer at 
wholesale—3000 plus. Vinca minor, Bowles variety; 

1500 Ajuga; 500 Cerastium tomentosum; 500 Del¬ 
phinium, specific hybrids, all colors; 1000 Festuca 
glauca; 500 Boston Ivy; 500 Engelman Ivy; 300 Chrys¬ 
anthemums. All the above grown in number 10 cans. 

Heavy and excellent quality. Come see them. 

SK 6-5656 

ILIFF GARDEN 
NURSERY 

SK 6-5656 

4750 E. Iliff 

Perennials — Over 400 vari¬ 
eties, 80,000 plants. 

4750 E. Iliff 

COME AND SEE US 

ILIFF GARDEN 
NURSERY 

The most complete stock. 

Visitors are always welcome. 

Trees, Shrubs, Roses, Ever¬ 
greens, Ground Covers, Rock 
Garden Plants, Hardy Vines, 
all in containers. 


OCT.-NOV. 
Vol. 18 
No. 8 


EDITORIAL 

COMMITTEE 

M. Walter Pesman, 
Chairman 

Julia Andrews 

Mrs. Alexander Barbour 

Mrs. William Crisp 

Fred R. Johnson 

Mrs. J. V. Petersen 

Mrs. John Scott 

Dr. Moras Shubert 

Mrs. James P. Steele, Jr. 

Mrs. Edmund Wallace 

Dr. Helen Marsh Zeiner 

Patrick Gallavan 

Mr. Everett Long 

Mrs. Everett Long 

Dr. A. C. Hildreth 
Editor 

THE COVER 

Aspens in 
Southwestern 
Colorado 


Members 


~fhe Uteen "Thumlt 

To conduct research on plants, both native and exotic, in 
varied plant zones of our region, to evaluate their economic, 
medicinal and horticultural potentials. 

To coordinate the knowledge and experience of botanists, 
horticulturists and gardeners. 

To educate the public in the best use of horticultural materials. 

To maintain a large collection of plant species and varieties for 
study and display. 


CONTENTS 

TITLE PAGE 

Calendar of Events. 265 

Notes and Notices. 266 

A Great Plains National Monument in Eastern Colorado, 

J. V. K. Wagar. 267 

Fall Color in the City, Frances Novitt. 269 

Bulbs in the Garden, Fred Vetting. 271 

How it all Began, Kathryn Kalmbach. 273 

Let's Go Native, Wm. H. Lucking. 275 

Los Angeles State and County Arboretum, 

Dr. William H. Stewart. 276 

Exotics of Colorado, Dr. Helen Marsh Zeiner. 278 

The Art of Bonsai, Frances Morrison. 279 

Using Yuccas and Cacti in Your Landscape, 

Julia H. Andrews. 281 

Next 100 Years in Ornamental Horticulture, George Beach 282 

Miss Durfee Resigns, Dr. A. C. Hildreth. 286 

Designing the Fall Garden, M. Walter Pesman. 287 

Dried Materials and How to Use Them, Ruth Lewin. 289 

Pete Ponders. 292 


SENT FREE TO ALL MEMBERS OF THE ORGANIZATION. 
REGULAR MEMBERSHIP, $5.00; PARTICIPATING, $10.00; 
SUPPORTING, $25.00; CONTRIBUTING, $50.00; SUSTAIN¬ 
ING, $100.00. 

Copyright 1961 

DENVER BOTANIC GARDENS, INC. 

A non-profit, privately financed organization 

EA 2-9656 MA 3-1133, Ext. 428 

909 YORK STREET DENVER 6, COLORADO 


i 


"i;, Candle Cottage 

| Candlemakers of the finest and most unique candles for 
all occasions and purposes. ^ Come in and browse among 
the many beautiful and unusual designs. ^ Traditional tapers 
and candles in a myriad of sizes and colors. | Contemporary 
and traditional decorative candles in statuary, floral, and other 
designs up to 18 inches tall to complement all tastes. ||| 
Special occasion candles in a variety of sizes, designs, and 
colors for all festive and solemn occasions. £ Aromatic and 
novelty candles with dainty scents and unusual designs. J 
Candle accessories and special gifts including Knott’s Berry 
Farm jams and jellies. | Visit the Candle Cottage for a fas¬ 
cinating glimpse of the ancient art of candlemaking now com¬ 
bined with just a touch of modern science for the most beautiful 
and long-lasting candles available. 


THE CANDLE COTTAGE, 5785 EAST ARAPAHOE, R.F.D. 3, BOULDER, COL. 


264 


CALENDAR of EVENTS 


'ery Saturday Morning — 9:10 a.m. 

KLZ Radio. The Green Thumb 
Program by Herbert Gundell, 

Denver County Agent 

'ery Saturday Afternoon — 4:30 p.m. 
KLZ-TV Channel 7. The Week-end 
Gardener by Herbert Gundell 

lird Sunday Every Month — Colorado 
Cactophiles at members’ homes. 

Call WE. 4-1506 

/ery Monday — 8:10 p.m. through 
November 6. Course in Floral 
Design. Loretto Heights College 
Art Studio. Mrs. John Scott, 

Instructor 

AT BOTANIC GARDENS HOUSE 
OCTOBER 

9th— Mon., 10:00 a.m. Judges’ Council 
9th — Mon., State Flower Show School 
10th — Tues., State Flower Show School 
10th — Tues., 4:00 p.m., Citizens’ Street 
and Shade Tree Committee 
10:00 a.m., Herbarium Study 
Group 

11th — Wed., State Flower Show School 
11th — Wed., 7:30 p.m., Landscape 
Contractors 

12th — Thurs., 1:30 p.m., Washington 
Park Garden Club Tea 
7:30 p.m., Rose Society 
17th—'Tues., 12:00 noon, Sloan’s 
Lake Garden Club 
17th — Tues., 8:00 p.m., Tree Class 
George Kelly 

18th — Wed., 9:30 a.m., Fun with 
Flowers Workshop 
19th — Thurs., 10:00 a.m., “Around 
the Seasons” Club 

20th— Fri., 7:45 p.m., Orchid Society 
21st — Sat., 2-5 p.m., Orchid Show 
22nd — Sun., 1-5 p.m., Orchid Show 


25th—'Wed., 7:30 p.m., Landscape 
Contractors 

26th — Thurs., 9:00 a.m., National Council 
of Garden Clubs Reading 
Examinations. Mrs. Seastone 

NOVEMBER 

1st — Wed., 7:30 p.m., Botany Club 

6th — Mon., 9:30 a.m., Junior Committee 

7th — Tues., 1:00 p.m., Mountain View 
Garden Club 

8th — Wed., 2:00 p.m., County Agents 
and Seed Growers Meeting, 

H. Gundell 

7:30 p.m., Landscape Contractors 

13th— Mon., 10:00 a.m., Judges’ Council 

7:45 p.m., Orchid Society 

14th—Tues., 10:00 a.m., Herbarium 
Study Group 

15th—'Wed., 9:30 a.m., Fun with 
Flowers Workshop 

16th — Thurs., 10:00 a.m., “Around the 
Seasons” Club 

20th — Mon., 1:00 p.m., Green Thumb 
Garden Club 

4:00 p.m., Botanic Gardens 
Board Meeting 

21st — Tues., 1:00 p.m., African Violet 
Council 

23rd — Wed., 7:30 p.m., Landscape 
Contractors 

DECEMBER 

1st — Fri., 2:00 p.m., Floral Art Study 
Club Tea 

2nd— Sat., 1-5 p.m., Floral Art 
Christmas Display 

5th — Tues., 1:00 p.m., Mountain View 
Garden Club 

6th — Wed., 10:00 a.m., Colorado 

Federation of Garden Clubs 
State Board 

7th—• Thurs., 7:30 p.m., Botany Club 


RIITHOnY p KEESin & sons 

^^ 4 . anJscaping anJ Contracting 
Hi-Pre$sure Spraying and Tree Trimming 


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AUTOMATIC UNDERGROUND SPRINKLING SYSTEMS 


265 


NOTES AND NOTICES 

HOME DECORATION EXHIBIT — A Christmas Exhibit of Decorative Ideas will b< 
displayed at the Graham Galleries, 3273 South Broadway, Englewood, December 1-11 b; 
the Open Gate Garden Club. This exhibition is a service to the public, showing various type 
of decorations that can be made for the home. Included will be miniature Christmas trees 
wreaths, door swags, table and buffet decorations, arrangements of dry materials, Christma* 
tree ornaments and many other decorative creations for the home. 

NOTED VISITOR —Mr. T. H. Everett, Assistant Director of the New York Botanica : 
Garden, visited the Denver Botanic Gardens on October 6 and 7 to consult with the Boari 
of Trustees regarding the construction of a conservatory. Mr. Everett has visited and studied 
most of the conservatories of the world and is an authority on the subject. 

PARTY FOR MISS DURFEE — Monday afternoon, October 2, friends of Miss Berths 
Durfee gathered for tea at Botanic Gardens House to wish her godspeed and to expres:' 
appreciation for her many years of service as well as for the distinguished quality of her work! 
Mr. M. Walter Pesman acted as master of ceremonies, speaking of our gratitude to her and 
presenting our gift of a purse laden with Western spirit in the form of silver dollars. 

CHILDREN’S GARDEN GRADUATION — September 9 was Graduation Day in th< 
Children’s Gardens. Eighty-seven members received certificates of merit for satisfactorily 
completing the season. First prize was awarded to Annette and Matthew Reynolds, 64 < 
Dahlia; 2nd prize, David and Deborah Vleck, 1069 Milwaukee; 3rd prize, Kathleen Sheai 
910 Olive. Honorable Mention: Alison and Judy Eha, 163 Madison; David Kuykendall 
1290 Oneida; and Patty Retherford, 742 Harrison. 


BOOKS AND BOOKLETS FOR SALE 

The following publications are available for purchase in the office at Botanic Gardens House, 909 Yorl 
Street: 

Around the Seasons by S. R. DeBoer.$1.0( 

Colorado Evergreens by Robert E. More. 2.5( 

Colorado Wild Flowers by Harold and Rhoda Roberts (a museum pictorial). 1.2' 

Fruit Key (identification of plants by their fruit) by William Harlow.6( 

Handbook of Plants of the Colorado Front Range by William Weber. 5.0 

(Also available in paper bound edition). 3.0( 

How to Grow Good Gardens in the Sunshine States by George Kelly .Spiral 3.2^ 

Regular 3.0( 

Meet the Natives by M. Walter Pesman . Spiral 3.6( 

Regular 3.0( 

Nature Games by Paul W. Nesbit.6( 

Planning for America’s Wildlands by Arthur H. Carhart. 2.5( 

Plants of Rocky Mountain National Park by Ruth Ashton Nelson. 1.1( 

Saga of a Forest Ranger by Len Shoemaker. 5.0( 

The Secret of the Green Thumb by Henry and Rebecca Northen. 5.0( 

Twig Key (identification of trees and shrubs in winter) by William Harlow.6( 

What Tree Is This? by the Denver City and County. 2i 

ARTICLES OF LASTING INTEREST TO TODAY S GARDENER 

In past issues of The Green Thumb are several articles of great interest. Copies may be obtained fror 
Mrs. Helen Vincent at Botanic Gardens House. Among such articles are: 

Lilacs for Colorado by Milton J. Keegan — December, 1944.id 

(Beautifully illustrated) 

Flowers and Gardens of the Central City Region — July-August, 1946.5C 

(By several authors — well illustrated) 

Hawthorns by M. Walter Pesman — May, 1950.1C 

(Very descriptive and well illustrated) 


DENVER BOTANIC GARDENS NOTE PAPER AVAILABLE — send your personal notes to your friends or 
our attractive note paper with Botanic Gardens House etched on the front. Available from Mrs. Vincent 
Botanic Gardens House, 909 York Street. $1.00 per box. 


266 


Great Plains National Monument 
Eastern Colorado 

J. V. K. Wagar 1 

k Great Plains National Monument, in one of the more scenic portions 
V of eastern Colorado, would place a magnificent natural botanic garden 
ithin a day’s easy round-trip drive from Denver. For visitors unaccustomed 
> eastern Colorado, it would show the Great Plains at their best, and would 
reak the monotony of open lands between Kansas and Nebraska and Colorado s 
ront-Range foothill towns. 

George Catlin (1796-1872), famous pioneer painter of western Indians and 
;enes, wrote of such a wonderful possibility in 1841: 

And what a splendid contemplation . . . when one (who has travelled these 
realms and can duly appreciate them) imagines them as they might in future be 
seen, (by some great protecting policy of government) preserved in their pristine 
beauty and wildness, in a magnificent park, where the world could see for ages to 
come, the native Indian in his classic attire . . . amid the fleeing herds of elk and 
buffaloes ... A nation’s park, containing man and beast, in all the wild and fresh¬ 
ness of their nature’s beauty! 

Kansas and the National Park Service urge the establishment of a Prairie 
National Park north of Manhattan. That, too, will be a beautiful natural botanic 
arden, but that is tail-grass prairie, not short-grass Great Plains, and it is far 
rom Colorado. Though plants and wildlife of the two regions overlap somewhat, 
hey and the general scenes differ greatly. Each setting is needed as a natural 

eservation. 

Green Thumb readers in Denver can obtain the best concept of the 
Potential beauty of a Great Plains National Monument by visiting the dioramas 
|)f the plains and mesa country of northeastern Weld County, shown on the 
'econd and third floors of the Denver Museum of Natural History. There the 
Complex of buffalo and grama grasses, rabbit brush and three-lobed sumac, 
brairie dogs and burrowing owls and badgers, antelope and prairie falcons — to 
inention just a dominant sprinkling of native species — is shown in beautiful 

jtrray. 

Many since Catlin have wished we could possess a reservation upon the 
;Treat Plains wherein all of the growing wild things present when white men first 
Name could surely be seen. We lack sufficient dominance over destiny to pre¬ 
serve in such an area all that Catlin coveted. “The native Indian” desires a 
ligher standard of living than Catlin’s reservation could afford. The Plains wolf, 
which early travelers saw in great numbers, cannot now be tolerated near ranches. 
But most of the old complex could be coaxed back or restocked. A few Indians, 
jas well as we who are relatively recent immigrants, might enjoy and help with 

ihe spectacle. 

l J. V. K. Wagar, Head, Department of Forest Recreation & Wildlife Conservation, Colorado 
State University, Fort Collins. 


267 


A Scene in the Pawnee Buttes Area 

Range managers, outing club members, and museum experts I know best,! 
agree that the Pawnee Buttes in Weld County are the most fitting site for such 
a monument. When viewed from one of the mesas shown in the Denver dio- 
ramas, they appear as in the accompanying illustration. The name, the place, 
and the partially public ownership all combine to make the area a logical choice. 

Of all land-management patterns, national monument status most nearly; 
approximates what is needed. These, under jurisdiction of the National Park 
Service, keep areas in utmost naturalness. They need not possess the world fame! 
and great size which inherently characterize the best of our 29 national parks, 
yet can be nationally important and cherished by those who know their signifi-) 
cance. 

The Pawnee Buttes are now within the Pawnee Buttes Geologic Area, a 
part of the Pawnee National Grassland administered by the Roosevelt National i 
Forest. Forest Service literature states the area was “recently classified to protect 
the outstanding wildlife, fossil, and geologic features for the study and enjoyment; 
of the public.” 

The Forest Service once was permitted to discover, recommend for estab¬ 
lishment, and administer national monuments. If again possible, and if the area 
can be given the naturalness needed within such an area, such jurisdiction is 
satisfactory. If a natural representation of plants and wildlife is not possible 
under Forest Service administration, the land should be exchanged for nearby 
properties of the U.S. Department of the Interior and a national monument 
created under the National Park Service. 


268 


A Great Plains National Monument at Pawnee Buttes should bring a patron- 
re which could restore the neighboring ghost town of Keota; not to a booming 
etropolis, but to a stable, dependable small community with the promise it 
assessed early in the century. 

Our Senators and Representatives are now being alerted to the unique values 
: this area. Interest and letters from readers of the Green Thumb will help 
eatly. 

sqs? 

^£7 

: ALL COLOR IN THE CITY 

Frances Novitt 


arring an early storm, fall color in 
the city borrows some of its bril- 
ance from the summer annuals, 
hroughout the city parks annual beds 
re still very colorful through Septem- 
er, if it is a mild month; they may 
ven be competing with October foliage 
nless there is a bad freeze. Tender 
lants like Coleus and Begonias may 
e nipped by light frosts, but Petunias, 
napdragons, Geraniums, Verbenas, 
^antanas, Stocks and Gloriosa Daisies 
/ill still blaze away in the autmun sun. 

Late perennials bring much fall color 
i the city. Some Perennial Phlox is 
till showing color, as well as Physos- 
egia, Liatris, Goldenrod, red Showy 
ledum, Rubrum Lilies, Helianthus, 
ielenium and Roses, to mention just a 
ew. These are in addition to autumn’s 
pecial blooms—Chrysanthemums and 
\sters. 

Fruits of shrubs contribute greatly 
o fall colors. Some of the beautiful 
'ed fruits we shall see this fall are those 
)f the Japanese Barberry and the de¬ 
ciduous Euonymus shrubs like the 
Winged, American and European 
Euonymus. The bright orange or red 
oerries of the Pyracantha will be showy 
a long time this winter, contrasting with 
the dark evergreen leaves. Many of 
the shrub roses have very large bright 
fed hips which remain attractive all 


winter. The European Highbush Cran¬ 
berry keeps its clusters of bright red 
berries almost all winter. 

The most conspicuous white-fruit 
shrub is the Snowberry. Symphori- 
carpos albus. Blue or black berries are 
less showy than red or white. The 
Nannyberry, Viburnum lentago, has 
flat clusters of black berries, raisin-like 
and edible, some of them persisting into 
winter. The Common Privet, if used 
as an informal shrub, and not pruned 
into a hedge, carries large glossy black 
fruit in terminal clusters, appearing in 
autumn and persisting through winter. 
Creeping Cotoneaster, C. adpressa, and 
C. horizontalis (less hardy here), have 
red berries. Some of the Prunus spe¬ 
cies, such as Western Sandcherry, have 
black or purplish fruits which persist 
into winter. 

Fall fruits of trees contribute less to 
autumn color than those of the shrubs, 
partly because they are above eye level, 
so that there must be a great many to 
be effective. Many tree fruits are small 
and uninteresting. One kind of tree in 
Denver which has had prominent fruit 
during most of August is the Tree of 
Heaven, Ailanthus altissima. All over 
Denver, both pale yellow and red fruit¬ 
ed varieties are showy with clusters of 
“keys.” They are easy to recognise 
with their long compound leaves, small 


269 


to medium size and well-rounded form. 
The fruit clusters will last most of the 
fall season. Another smaller tree with 
interesting fruit is the Golden-rain tree, 
Koelreuteria paniculata. These little 
trees, with doubly compound leaves, 
are now showing off their panicles of 
triangular bladder-like husks. These 
are first yellow-green, then fade to pale 
tan or white and look like clusters of 
little Chinese lanterns. They will last 
through most of the autumn. 

Many of the Hawthorns, thorny, 
small, round trees, have beautiful red 
apple-like haws, which last most of the 
winter. West of the memorial in Chees- 
man Park, the rows of Cockspur 
Thorns, Crataegus crus-galli, will have 
rich red fruit, about one-half inch in 
diameter, from September on. 

The Hopa Crabapples along Speer 
Boulevard, east of Broadway, have 
bright red apples, about an inch in 
diameter, which will persist until win¬ 
ter. From private yards one can use 
these fruits for making preserves and 
jellies. Many other flowering crabs 
here in Denver have fall fruit in tones 
of red, orange and purple. They vary 
in the length of time they are effective. 
Particularly fine is the fruit of the 
white-flowered Dolgo Crab. 

Throughout the city, the European 
Mountain Ash trees have been showy 
with flat clusters of orange berries 
which will last through most of the fall 
season. 

The brilliance of fall foliage, as we 
know, varies from year to year, de¬ 
pending upon combinations of mois¬ 
ture, temperature and sunlight. Red 
foliage this fall in Denver, storms per¬ 
mitting, will come from the following 


shrubs, a list by no means complete 
Ginnala Maple, Japanese Barberry 
Siberian Dogwood, Red Osier Dog! 
wood, various deciduous Euonymu 
varieties, all the Sumacs, some of tb 
shrub roses such as the Prairie Rosi 
and Rugosa Rose and the Mahonias 
whose evergreen holly-like leaves tun 
red for the winter. 

We can count on Boston Ivy am 
Virginia Creeper vines to add their par 
to fall’s red flames. 

Probably, Denver’s trees will give u 
more yellow than red fall color. Ou 
older residential areas will be brigh 
with the yellows of Silver Maple, Ash 
American Elm, White Birch, Westeri! 
Hackberry, Honey Locust, Cottonwoo< i 
and Golden Willow. 

When we think of fall color I gues 
we all think of oaks. If weather con 
ditions are favorable, the Red Oak 
and Pin Oaks will show wonderful rec 
colors; the coarser-textured Bur Oak 
will be russet or yellow-brown. Sorm 
of the Hawthorns will be red, too, tb 
Cockspur Thorn and Washington Haw 
thorn being outstanding. Many of th< 
flowering Crabapples will turn red a 
well. 

Some trees which change color little 
or unattractively, or just before th<i 
leaves fall, are: Norway Maple, Ohic 
Buckeye, Tree of Heaven, Golder 
Rain-tree, Western Catalpa, Englisl 
Hawthorn, several of the flowering 
Crabs, European Mountain Ash, Amer 
ican Linden, European Linden, Russiai 
Olive and Japanese Pagoda tree. 

The greens of evergreen trees pro 
vide a strong note of contrast with the 
flaming deciduous leaves and are' i\ 
definite part of the fall color scheme. 


WASHINGTON PARK GARDEN CLUB members have started a fund to 
purchase a much-needed portable microphone for Botanic Gardens House. 
Other clubs or individuals interested my send contributions to the House. 


I 


I 


j 

! 


{ 

i Fred Vetting 

S 


k s the years go by it seems that 
winters drag on and hang on with 
he tenacious grip of a Bulldog. When 
.pring comes at last we welcome it with 
iladness in our hearts and blisters on 


>ur hands. It is a season that means 
:lean up, fix up and freshen up the 
ireas outside the walls of our homes. 


Spring is also an awakening of the liv- 
ng things out of doors which have been 
Numbering for several months. 

Living plants mean beauty — and 
beauty has one of its main components 
n color. When words like color and 


ipring are put together, one cannot 
ceep from thinking of bulbs — Flower- 


ng Bulbs. 

In order to get the most enjoyment 
Dut of any type of flowers, it is impor- 
:ant to have good varieties. Not just 
any bulb will do, but buy good ones. 
During the spring blossoming time one 
:an make notes of preferred varieties, 
Dr at the time of purchase in the fall 


:olor plates and descriptions can act as 
a guide. The following varieties have 
been very good in my garden. 

I. Narcissus (a) (Trumpet and 
large-cupped types): Spring Glory, 
Mrs. R. O. Backhouse, Unsurpassable, 


Peter Pan Crocus 


President Lebrun, King Alfred and 
Mount Hood, (b) (Small-cupped and 
cluster types): February Gold, Firetail, 
Geranium, Thalia and Mary Copeland. 

II. Tulips (Single, early group): 
Yellow Prince, Red Emperor, White 
Hawk. (Double, early group): Peach 
Blossom, Mr. Van DerHoef. (Cottage 
group): May time, Mrs. John Scheepers, 
Smiling Queen and White City. (Dar¬ 
win group): Bartigon, Clara Butte, Un¬ 
surpassable, Queen of the Night, Gold¬ 
en Age and Zwanenburg. (Darwin 
Hybrids): Gudoschink, Oxford, and 
Holland Glory. (Parrots): Fantasy, 
Blue Parrot, Parrot Wonder and Texas 
Gold. (Double, late group): Eros, 
Mount Tacoma, Livingston. (Breeder 
group): Bacchus, Pontiac, Bronze 
Queen and Louis IV. 

III. Hyacinth: City of Harlem, La 
Victoire, L’Innocence, King of Blue, 
Perle Brilliant and Pink Pearl. 

IV. Smaller Dutch Bulbs: Snow¬ 
drops, Chionodoxa (Glory of Snow), 


271 


The Squill (Scilla sp.), Grape Hya¬ 
cinth and the wonderful Dutch Crocus. 

After deciding upon the kinds, types 
and varieties of bulbs to plant, the next 
step is where and how to plant them. 

SOIL PREPARATION 

Almost all spring bulbs prefer a 
sandy loam soil. Well-rotted manure 
and well-worked compost will help al¬ 
most any soil problem. Work this ma¬ 
terial into the soil ahead of planting 
time. Do not add fresh manure or com¬ 
post when planting your bulbs. Bone 
meal is one of the best fertilizers and 
may be applied to beds prior to plant¬ 
ing time at the rate of Vi pound per 
twenty-five square feet. Work the soil 
over several times so the soil will be 
loose for the bulb roots to start growing. 

PLANTING 

The question of how deep to plant 
the bulbs invariably comes up. A good 
rule to follow in most cases is simply 
this: if the mature flower is small and 
short (Crocus) plant fairly shallow, 2 
to 3 inches deep. If the mature flower 
is tall and has a narrow stem (most 
tulips and daffodils) plant deep, 8 to 
12 inches. And if the mature flower is 
of medium height and of stout sub¬ 
stance (Hyacinth) somewhere between 
the two depths will be enough, 5 to 7 
inches. 

The best time for planting is usually 
during October and the early part of 
November. However, I have planted 
as early as September and as late as 
Christmas-time in frozen soil and have 
enjoyed beautiful flowers the next 
spring. 

For a more casual and naturalistic 
effect, plant your bulbs in drifts — 
groups of like varieties in irregular ar¬ 
rangements. Planting different groups 


of bulbs at irregular spots around th 
base of dwarf shrubs gives a pleasin| 
effect. Bulbs of almost every kind d 
very well in filtered shade as well a! 
in full sun. 

WATERING AND FEEDING : 

Of all the basic requirements im 
portant to good plant culture, I believ 
water to be the most necessary. Ye 
water, because of its easy accessibility 
is used with little forethought. Wate! 
is to flowers and plants as blood is t 
the human body. A good supply at a 
times is very essential to the health: 
looks and vitality of both. Regardles! 
of how rich or fertile the soil may be 
plants without a constant supply oj 
water are not going to produce to] 
specimen flowers. After making sur 
your bulbs have good drainage, so tha 
they will not drown, give them plent; 
of water. 

I find that by planting annuals ove 
and between where the bulbs ar 
planted two things happen. One, th< 
leaves of the bulb plants protect th< 
small fresh-out-of-the-greenhouse an 
nuals until they become established 
and two, fertilizer and water given th< 
annuals work down to the bulb root 
and repays the bulbs by giving then 
plenty of nourishment. This feeding 
in addition to the bone meal that wa 
applied at planting time, is sufficient t( 
assure a good crop for next spring. 

One of the enjoyable things abou 
planting bulbs in the garden is the rela 
tive ease of care — diseases and insect: 
are few. Perhaps the one enemy of th( 
bulb, is the man who digs up the gar 
den every time the urge hits him. Mam 
a shovel blade has made half bulbs ou 
of whole ones. It is a good idea tc 
label, or keep in mind, the location o 
your bulbs. 


Plant Collecting Party at Pawnee Lake — 1940 


HOW IT ALL BEGAN 


Kathryn Kalmbach 

I n looking over the early numbers of The Green Thumb, first published by 
the Colorado Forestry and Horticulture Association, we find the first mention 
of an Herbarium in the January-February issue of 1947. While the writer well 
remembers the thrill of having a place to start a collection of specimens of Colo¬ 
rado plants in the new home of the organization on Bannock Street, this was not 
the real beginning of the Herbarium which is now housed at Botanic Gardens 
House. 

Several years before, Joseph A. Ewan, botanist at Colorado University, 
began a series of Extension Courses in Denver in the study of Colorado Flora. A 
number of Denver folks, who are today well-known members of Denver Botanic 
Gardens, were among Mr. Ewan’s students. To mention a few, they were: 
Dr. E. H. Brunquist, Dr. and Mrs. James Waring, Mrs. H. M. Kingery, George 
Kelly, Robert More, Erl Ellis, the Harold Roberts, M. Walter Pesman, Alice 
McWhinney, Alice Wood and many others, including the writer. 

Mr. Ewan’s classes included a number of field trips on which his students 
were introduced to the methods of collecting botanical specimens, and a number 
began to acquire pressed specimens of their own. In the years following these 
classes, many of the members continued to explore various parts of Colorado in 
their search for new plants. 

Many week-end, or shorter, trips were made in Erl Ellis’ station wagon and 
in George Kelly’s pick-up truck, jeep or station wagon. Who among those 


273 


■■ 


Left to right: 

Mrs. Kathryn Kalmbach 

Miss Henrietta Zobel 
(Now Mrs. J. H. Kelsoe) 

Mrs. Aven Nelsen 
Dr. Aven Nelsen 
Mr. M. Walter Pesman 


Working on Hebanum Specimens — 1940 

a 

r si 

students could forget the thrill of finding Boykinia on Pike’s Peak, Cotton gras: 
in the meadow near Palmer’s Lake or yellow Ladies’ Slipper in the marsh nea: 
Monument Lake! 

The Colorado Mountain Club also played an important part in the begin 
nings of our little Herbarium. There was the wonderful Mountain Club camj 
at Crater Lake in July of 1940. Here we had the company of the late Dr. A veil 
Nelson and Mrs. Nelson, Henrietta Trobel, then Botanist at Denver University 
Dr. Brunquist, George Kelly and Walter Pesman, and other enthusiastic botanists 

When we began to deposit our specimens at Horticulture House, we wen 
fortunate in acquiring generous donations from Mr. Ewan, a fine collection o 
grasses from Dr. Harrington of Fort Collins, specimens and much help in nomen 
clature from Dr. William Weber of Colorado University. Mrs. William H. Crisf 
was instrumental in getting for us some valuable specimens collected by Alice 
Eastwood and other early day botanists. We have also acquired a number o: 
fink “Album Herbaria,” which we hope to have a way of displaying at a future! 
time. 

Our latest addition to the Herbarium has been the fine large collection o| 
Colorado plants made by Dr. John B. Hartwell of Colorado Springs. The Hart¬ 
well collection has nearly doubled our number of specimens. 

We are fortunate in having an interested group of members who mee 
monthly to help with the preparation and classification of specimens. Our plan:! 
for the future are built around the acquisition of specimens of the native anc! 
cultivated plants of Colorado and the Rocky Mountain Region. The large Her¬ 
bariums of Colorado University and Aven Nelson Herbarium at Laramie, Wyo¬ 
ming, can always be consulted for study of all plant life, but in the small Herbar¬ 
ium at Botanic Gardens House we hope we may be of service to the members 
of the Denver Botanic Gardens in helping to identify weeds, garden plants anc 
natives of our region. 

Many Denver Botanic Gardens memberships expire in November and 
December. Have you renewed yours? 


274 


Let’s Go Native 


Wm. H. Lucking 


L et’s go native! Better yet, let’s 
grow native—plants, that is. Many 
lave extolled the virtues of plant ma- 
erial native in the Rocky Mountain 
States but few have told how to propa¬ 
gate or grow these plants. 

Let me share some of my successes 
and failures in propagating choice plants 
found in our mountains or nearby plains 
and foothills. 

Let’s begin with our native holly- 
grape, Mahonia repens. One of our 
most valuable broadleafed evergreens, 
hollygrape may be used as a ground 
cover, in rock gardens or as a speci¬ 
men clump in sun or shade. Its blue- 
green foliage turns to reddish-purple in 
winter. The plant produces clusters of 
yellow blossoms in early spring and 
fruit in August. It is not particular 
about soil. In the Denver area our 
3 native Mahonia will grow 18 inches 
high but withstands vigorous trimming 
if one wants to keep it low. 

Mahonia repens grows in various 
locations in our mountainous areas — 
in sun, shade, high on an exposed hill¬ 
side or in a valley of deep shade. It 
seems so simple to collect young shoots 
in the mountains, bring them to our 
gardens and plant expectantly. Behold, 
it is not that easy! During my many 
years with Roberts Nursery I succeed¬ 
ed in growing relatively few. Some 
years later, as a nurseryman with the 
Denver Parks Department, I found a 
large planting of native Mahonia grow¬ 
ing successfully in one of the parks. 
Although this planting had been estab¬ 
lished with great effort, it renewed my 
enthusiasm. Again I decided to try 
growing this desirable plant in great 
numbers — this time from seed. 

The park planting bore a good crop 
of fruits that year, and in late August 


when the berries were ripe, I eagerly 
collected the seed for my adventure. I 
soon learned that it takes a lot of pa¬ 
tience and effort to produce Mahonia 
plants from seed. The procedure which 

1 found successful is as follows: 

After the fruit is collected the seed 

is carefully cleaned from the pulp. In 
the fall, the seed is planted in a cold 
frame. The soil should be light loam 
mixed with some peat and sand. The 
seed is sown in rows about 2 or 3 
inches apart and covered with about 
Va inch of soil. It is then well watered. 
To prevent the soil from drying out it 
is mulched with leaves to a depth of 

2 or 3 inches. 

Mahonia seed germinates very early 
in spring. At that season it is necessary 
to dig into the mulch very frequently 
to learn if germination has begun. 
When the young sprouts appear above 
the soil the mulch should be removed 
and a lath frame set over the cold 
frame to provide partial shade. The 
young plants must be watched closely 
to prevent their drying out or burning 
by the sun. 

The seedlings are left in the cold 
frame all summer under the protection 
of the lath shade. The following spring 
they are potted in 2-inch pots and the 
pots are plunged in the soil of the cold 
frame and left to grow another year. 
The next spring the plants should be 
large enough to set out in open ground, 
but I prefer to repot them in 3-inch pots 
and grow them another year in the cold 
frame. In my trials, the plants were 
shaded the second and third years, but 
whether this is necessary I do not know. 

This makes the production of Ma¬ 
honia planting stock from seed a three- 
year project. Although this tries your 
patience you will be well rewarded. 


275 


I 


Los Angeles State and County Arboretum 

Dr. Wm. S. Stewart, Director 

This is the second part of an article about the Los Angeles State and County Arboretum, written 
by Dr. Wm. S. Stewart. The first part appeared in the August-September issue of the Green 
Thumb. It presented an enlightening word picture of the principal features of the Arboretum. 

In this issue the educational program and facilities of the Arboretum are described. 

E ducation is one of the two main functions of an Arboretum. Our program 
started in 1956, is expanding in a phenomenal manner. This expansion i: 
entirely due to the tremendous demand by the public for classes in Home Land¬ 
scaping, Home Gardening, Plant Identification, Orchid Culture, Botanical Sketch* 
ing and Nature Study, to mention a few. Courses for Juniors are not neglectec 
either, as in the past fiscal year 335 children were enrolled in 19 different classe: 
and 12,269 children were tabulated for field trips. 

The second main function is research, both fundamental and applied. Mos 
of the fundamental research is being done with grants from various sources 
The testing and introduction of new plants from all over the world has beer' 
carried on since the Arboretum started. Some of the very recent introduction*} 
are Felicia “Santa Anita,” Grevillea lanigera, Mellaleuca elliptica, Calothamnus 
ruprestis, the White Jacaranda, and ground covers like Osteospermum fruiticosun 
and Verbena Peruviana. The large collections of Eucalyptus, Acacia, Callistemor 
and other bottle-brush groups, Erythrina and South African bulbs, provide a rid 
source of material for plant breeders and for critical taxonomic studies of man) 
genera of plants. 

Forest and brush fires do tremendous damage each year in Southern Cali 
fornia. A program is in progress in cooperation with County and State foresl 
services aimed at locating and testing plants with a high degree of fire resistance 
for use in replanting burned over areas. To date, the genus Cistus offers several 
promising species. Other genera are also being tested. 

Additions of a plant pathologist and an entomologist has increased research 
in these fields. One pathological problem under way is the study of oak rool 
fungus which is ravaging the fine old Coast Live Oaks, so much a part of out 
native landscape. 

In Southern California considerable differences in maximum-minimum 
temperatures are not uncommon within very short distances. To improve 


Preserve the Health and Beauty of Your Trees With Swingle Care 

SWINGLE 

TREE SURGEONS 

620 SOUTH DAHLIA • DE 3-4417 • FR 7-8123 


276 


Children's Education Building in Los Angeles State & County 
Arboretum and Activity of one of the Children's Classes 


LASCA’s testing and introduction program, several test stations in areas of differ¬ 
ent climatic conditions are now being used. The first of these, located in the 
Mojave Desert in the Antelope Valley near Palmdale, was started several years 
'ago. It has proven highly successful. Another test station near Playa del Rey on 
the ocean permits using a high humidity area. In addition, the Lux Arboretum 
■j in Monrovia, which has been a part of the Arboretum for several years, provides 
i a completely frost-free test area. 

On July 1, 1958, the Department of Arboreta and Botanical Gardens as¬ 
sumed administration of Descanso Gardens in La Canada, California. Here are 
over 100,000 camellia shrubs representing approximately 800 varieties growing 
under Coast Live Oaks which cover thirty acres. There is also a California 
Native Plant Garden, started in May 1959, which serves a popular demand as a 
“reference library.” Two Rose Gardens, one of which is devoted to the history 
of the rose, shows specimens arranged chronologically throughout the entire 
Christian era, and the other displays the winners of the All America Rose 
Selection awards, an event which started in 1939. 

A “first” of major importance was achieved at the Arboretum in May 1958, 
when four Demonstration Home Gardens were opened to the public. These 

2 77 


gardens, sponsored jointly by the California Arboretum Foundation, Inc., and 
Sunset Magazine, were designed and built to help home owners discover the 
wonderful world of living in and with their gardens in Southern California. The 
words DEMONSTRATION and HOME are keys to how and why the gardens 
were designed and built. First, they were planned for the homes of average 
people. Second, they were designed to demonstrate how to use hundreds of new 
and old building materials, as well as new plant introductions and old plants in 
new settings. These gardens are a demonstration of many ideas rather than a: 
single approach to garden layout and design. They are planned for flexibility.! 
Furniture and plants can be changed by the season; structures may be altered,: 
remodeled, rebuilt — to try out new ideas and new materials. These gardens: 
are proving tremendously popular. 

A bit more than twelve years ago, a small group of civic-minded people had! 
an idea that they felt would improve and benefit Southern California and Los 
Angeles County in particular. The Los Angeles State and County Arboretum 
is the realization of that idea, and illustrates in the finest way how local govern¬ 
ment and private capital and energy can work together for the benefit of the! 
whole community. 


Exotics of Colorado 


Helen Marsh Zeiner 


The Oaks 


At this time of year the beautiful fall 
color of certain oak trees makes an 
eye-catching addition to the autumn 
landscape. These large oaks are exotic 
to Colorado, but native to the eastern 
half of the United States. In their native 
haunts they may form extensive stands 
and are often an important part of the 
famed fall colors of the deciduous for¬ 
ests. Oaks have not been used exten¬ 
sively in Colorado and other states of 
the Rocky Mountain region because 
they are slow-growing and sometimes 
difficult to establish. However, once 
they become established they are hardy 
and long-lived. They occur naturally 
where soils are more acid than in Colo¬ 
rado — so anything which can be done 
to increase soil acidity makes the oaks 
more at home. Not all oaks color at¬ 


tractively. For example, the bur oak, 
probably the most commonly used oak 
in Denver, offers little in the way of 
fall color. However, the bur oak is a 
very desirable tree in other aspects and 
is probably the easiest oak to establish 
in this area. The red, scarlet, and pin 
oaks, while generally considered more 
difficult to grow than bur oak, make 
beautfiul displays of fall color in shades 
of red varying from purple red to clear 
orange-red. These oaks can be obtained 
without difficulty. While they are more 
expensive than many trees, they are 
well-worth the extra price, the time it 
takes to grow them, and the care neces¬ 
sary to successful establishment. In the 
case of the oaks, patience is rewarded 
with a beautiful, enduring tree to be 
enjoyed for a life time. 


278 


—— —————PW1W W— —P 


mwvm *at*$A i cim 

tm&m 


The Art of Bon$si 

Frances Morrison 

he WORD “bonsai” literally translated means “tray tree.” The art of growing 
these dwarfed potted trees has been practiced by the Japanese for many 
Centuries. The oldest authentic record of bonsai is pictures of dwarfed trees and 
iierbaceous plants in containers in a noted scroll written in 1310. Illustrations and 
descriptions of bonsai are found in old Japanese gardening books published in 
:he seventeenth century. Quoting from an article by Kan Yashiroda, concerning 
iphotographs published in the early 1800s, “These are not childish attempts or 
vague ideas but are the products of long years of an age of military ascendency, 
when every profession was hereditary — the time called the Tokugawa Era. 
jthose wonderful, long, peaceful years, the Japanese people were accustomed to 
escape from daily life into something that interested them; they devoted their 
|leisure time to things that freed them from the restraint of social life; they entered 
into friendly rivalry with their fellow fanciers. When amateurs have their en¬ 
thusiasm aroused, they are always without regard for the gam or loss involved; 
Ithat attitude greatly advanced bonsai. Professional men have been interested 
only in seizing the cream of the amateurs’ discoveries in ideas and in materials. 
Therefore, I praise the amateur bonsai fanciers. In Japan, there are nearly as 
many amateurs as bonsai trees. A large number of them are worthy of saying 
‘We wear proudly the name of amateur.’ ” 

Some of the bonsai are naturally dwarfed specimens, taken from the moun¬ 
tains with great care, for usually they have grown on rocky hillsides. Patience 


279 


is necessary in reestablishing them. The majority of the trees generally seen ar 
developed from ordinary nursery stock or from somewhat dwarfed trees fount 
in a natural habitat. The practice of artificially dwarfing might be more aptli 
described as “revolutionizing” normal growth. 

This paper is prepared for the purpose of introducing this fascinating art t 
the reader. A brief summary of the selection, planting and care of bonsai follow 
but is a poor substitute for a few object lessons by a competent consultant. 

A great many varieties of both evergreen and decidous trees and shrubs ar { 
suitable for this culture, but it is advisable to use those with a natural aptitud 
for slow growth. Evergreens do not do well in the hot, dry atmosphere of oui 
homes, and unless greenhouse conditions are available, the varieties hardy ill 
our area should be chosen. Some nurseries offer two-year plants grown especial! 
for bonsai use. Rooted cuttings of flowering shrubs, such as winged euonymous 
pyracantha, flowering almond and forsythia may be used or your nurseryman 
may be able to supply seedlings. 

The container should be chosen with the shape and variety of the specimeii 
in mind, but in general, a plain harmonious color of pottery with provision fo 
good drainage is the wise choice. A layer of pea-size gravel, a layer of sand, am 
a good mixture of potting soil should be put into the container. The roots of 
the plants should be carefully trimmed with a sharp knife or clippers. Then th 
potting soil is carefully sifted around the roots to the proper depth. The soi 
should be well settled, allowing no air pockets. The container should then b< 
immersed in water and, particularly in case of evergreens, the plants should h ] 
sprayed with a fine mist for several days. 

Training the bonsai is done by pinching new growth, trimming, and b 1 1 
wiring with fairly large copper wire. The wire is twisted around the limb an<| 
then bent to desired shape, which varies according to the general and natural' 
growth habit of the specimen, and to the artistic ability of the grower. Rules fo 
training bonsai are the same as followed by the Japanese in their flower arrange i 
ment. The trees are repotted when new root growth is needed to keep a vigorou;! 
plant. They are fed liquid fertilizer. 

The beginning bonsai may be made more attractive by adding stones witl| 
lichen and moss, and by use of driftwood. They may be made up into small 
landscapes, which are called bonkai. Some are grown clasping a stone witl 
crevices. Moss may be used to cover the top of the soil. Dried moss may bt, 

crushed and sifted over the top of the soil and will soon give a beautiful greeii 
blanket. 

Much of the information given has been taken from “The Handbook o 
Dwarfed Potted Trees,” published by Brooklyn Botanic Garden. The practica ! 
training and instruction was given by Mr. George Fukuma, a consultant in thiijj 
art, and Vice-President of The Denver Bonsai Club, to whom is accredited th( 

degree of success so far achieved by the author. The failures and the joys have 
been her own. 


A Denver Botanic Gardens membership is an appropriate Christmas gift 
for a gardener friend. Each issue of The Green Thumb will be a reminder of 
your thoughtfulness. 


280 


■— 

Jsing YUCCAS 
and CACTI in 
Your Landscape 

Julia H. Andrews 

acti and other desert-growing 
plants are often considered only 
is a last resort when planning a land¬ 
scape. Perhaps this is because of their 
Spiny nature or, perhaps, many people 
have not had the opportunity to ob¬ 
serve the beauty that cactus and yucca 
can provide. Some may feel that suclr 
plants belong in the “desert” and will 
inot do well in the Denver area. Denver 
and the surrounding communities, how¬ 
ever, are well-suited for arid and semi- 
arid plants because this area is a semi- 
arid habitat. 

To give you an idea of how well 
these plants can be used in a landscape, 
I let’s cite a few examples. Yucca glauca, 
a native of the Colorado Plains, and 
| the eastern species, Yucca filamentosa, 
are now being used in Aurora, Colo¬ 
rado, to landscape the narrow highway 
! dividers at hot, dry intersections. With 
; their green foliage in winter and showy 
I flowers in summer they provide year 
around beauty to an otherwise unglam- 
orous location. Yuccas and cacti are 
often seen growing in jardinieres placed 
at the edge of a patio, adding texture 
to what is often a monotonously smooth 
area. Rockeries and rock-retaining 
walls, too, are sometimes sites for these 
plants. 


Yucca glauca 


For the home-owner who has some 
land that does not lend itself to the 
growing of Kentucky Bluegrass, a 
planting of yuccas, several varieties of 
cacti and native grasses will sometimes 
fit the need. The gray-green foliage of 
the native yucca and the colorful flow¬ 
ers of many cacti will bring drama to 
an all-green landscape. 

The variety of the shapes that are 
found in the cacti and the unusual 
forms of yuccas make them quite com¬ 
patible with the contemporary style of 
architecture. The yucca, with its rosette 
of spikes, adds character to the land¬ 
scape when planted among cacti such 
as Opuntia arborescens. 

In addition to lending special interest 
to your landscape, the cacti and yuccas 
are valuable when used as barriers 
against dogs (and sometimes people). 
The very nature of these plants allows 
them to be planted in areas where few 


281 


other plants will survive, such as next 
to the south-facing glass wall of a 
building which reflects hot sun rays 
with terrific intensity or fronting a 
light-colored fence that also reflects the 
heat. 

For the beginner, start with the com¬ 
mon species such as Yucca glauca and 
Opuntia arborescens and gradually 
build the collection with more species. 
Yucca glauca can be used in repetition 
among the “specimen plants” of various 
other yuccas and cacti. This will tend 


to “tie” the planting together and gi\ 
it a more natural setting. 

The next time you have occasion tt: 
be close to cacti and yuccas, examini 
them carefully and you will find tha 
they have many intriguing feature! 
which make them interesting for thf 
home landscape where small detai’i 
become so important. Try them in 
your own garden and notice the tin!; 
spot of drama. Their drama seems s 
special when compared with our stanc 
ard cultivated garden plants. 


Next 100 Years In Ornamental Horticulturi 

George Beach, Professor of Horticulture, CSU 

The year 2060 w/M see people in outer space; 
but their numbers will be small compared to the earthlings. 


S omeone predicted several years 
ago that men would eventually be 
decanted from laboratory flasks — that 
the alphas and betas would do all the 
work and the gammas and deltas have 
all the fun. Such a state of affairs is 
surely more than a century in the fu¬ 
ture, but as human efficiency increases 
the people will have more leisure time. 
And what do we do with the time we 
save? We spend it. Time is one thing 
we don’t save very long — we spend it 
at work, at play, or we just “kill” it. 

We’ll probably have more trees, 
shrubs and grass downtown in 2060 
than we have today. Can we afford the 
space for them there? If they are use¬ 
ful as well as ornamental — yes! 

Pleasant surroundings add not only 
to man’s productiveness, but to his en¬ 
joyment of leisure time. He must be 
recreated periodically. His recreation 
is active or passive. The more active 
it is, the harder he breathes. Not for 
food alone does man depend upon the 


photosynthesis of plants. He depend! 
upon plants for the very air he breathe; 
Not only the crop plants, but all th 
wild plants of field and forest are com 
stantly purifying the air we breathe. 

Just as pioneer man brought plant! 
with him, the astronaut will take plant? 
into space. He’ll take them to purifj 
the air he breathes. Trees and shrub 
will be too bulky for space travel, bm 
surely he’ll take the chlorophyll — tha 
marvelous pigment which uses th 
power in sunshine to split water inti 
hydrogen and oxygen. The oxygej 
man must have to breathe. The car 
bon dioxide he exhales can be reduce* 
to sugar by the hydrogen freed from 
water in photosynthesis.* 


*Note to the “thinking man”: You are rig! 
— plants also use oxygen and give off cai 
bon dioxide, but a new source of oxyge 
results from photosynthesis by splitting th 
water molecule to release oxygen. And th 
carbon dioxide given off by plants is onl: 
a fraction of the amount taken in by th 
plant. 


282 


There will be many more earthlings 
2060, more crowded together than 
ow and burning more fuel. Fuel burn- 
ig and breathing use up oxygen and 
ml the air with carbon dioxide. The 
lore men and engines we have in 
060, the more plants we will need, 
lants use the carbon dioxide with 
diich we foul the air — freshening it 
y giving off oxygen. 

The Dean of an American medical 
chool has recently advocated planting 

certain number of trees for every 
lutomobile, truck, plane and other 
dr-polluting machine to maintain our 
>alance of oxygen to carbon dioxide 
n the air. 

INDOORS OUT-OUTDOORS IN 

Many people today are alarmed by 
ihe rate at which the exploding metrop- 
oolis is eating up our space on earth. 
Man needs open space—eye-stretching, 
soul-satisfying relief from the too-great 
insistence of the works of man. “Get¬ 
ting away” is an important part of 
recreation. 

Open space and pleasant surround¬ 
ings where we work and live reduce 
the necessity to “get away.” Human 
productiveness need not impair human 
happiness. Happy people whistle while 
they work. Our work-day lives need 
all the release from tensions that we 
can contrive. The National Parks and 
wilderness areas can be reached only 
in vacation times. Trees, shrubs, lawns 
and flowers take us “back to Nature” 


if only momentarily and subconscious¬ 
ly. Trees downtown, a garden in a 
mall or on a rooftop, are used by thou¬ 
sands of people all day long and part 
of the night, while similar areas in 
home grounds serve fewer people for 
shorter times. The downtown gardens 
are more expensive but also more val¬ 
uable in terms of the per capita use 
that is made of them. 

Closer relations between plants and 
people are everywhere evident today. 
The shelter magazines are full of ideas 
to move the outdoors in, and the in¬ 
doors out. In some cases it is diffi¬ 
cult to detect the boundaries between 
outdoors and indoors. Where a garden 
extends under an overhanging roof and 
into a house, a sliding glass wall divides 
the garden during inclement weather, 
but in summer there is no boundary. 
A putting green on a roof; a garden in 
a court; pools, fountains and planters 
indoors we have today. It is logical to 
expect an extension of the best of such 
ideas to new and larger uses in 2060. 

Such ideas are fantastic dreams at 
first—becoming practical realities only 
after much human effort. This makes 
employment for people. Automation 
reduces employment in one place, free¬ 
ing people for use in another. The 
dreamers, the inventors, the designers 
must be supported by great numbers 
of people in new jobs: building, servic¬ 
ing, and maintaining the designs now 
just coming to reality. 

Goods of new types will be produced 


for the designer and builder. The 
goods for gardens include many ac¬ 
cessories in addition to growing plants: 
landscape paving, planters, shelters, 
screens and translucent roofing. But 
the essence of the garden is the plants. 
They are elements of a design — a liv¬ 
ing, moving, growing design. They are 
perishable like man himself, have a 
productive life span, must be nurtured 
solicitously as infants and retired in 
old age. Much of man’s appreciation 
of plants is this kinship he has to them. 
2060 should afford man more time to 
enjoy this kinship. 

LONGEVITY OF PLANTS 

The longevity of plants is relative. 
Some plants we use for a short time 
while they are in their prime and then 
replace them. Some are useful for 
many years. Some outgrow the situa¬ 
tion but continue to be useful when 
moved to a more spacious place. 2060 
will probably see more portable plants 
in larger sizes than we have today. 
We already have the means to satisfy 
a limited demand in this direction. 
And 2060 will probably see more flex¬ 
ibility and portability in man’s build¬ 
ings, so that the buildings will move 
rather than the more permanent plants. 

A shopping center in Palo Alto to¬ 
day gives this impression. It was built 
in a live-oak grove. Trees stand inside 
the shops and the doorways, their 
lower branches displaying the mer¬ 
chandise and the tree tops extending 
through the roofs. This place gives the 
impression that not only were the trees 
there before man moved business into 


the area, but that the business ma 
retire before the trees are old. 

Another 100 years may see peoplt 
putting a higher valuation on estab 
lished long-lived plants than is ofte' 
the case today. Too often our land 
scaping is mostly bulldozer type lanc< 
“scraping.” A recent Colorado sub 
division development, “Country Squir'c 
Estates,” destroyed 80-year-old oaks i 
developing the site. Country squire! 
a century hence may value such tree 
more highly than the land itself. 

INDOORS-OUT 

Cook-outs on the patio and ovei f 
night camping in the yard will pro! 
ably develop in a century, to a fa' 
more intensive use of home ground: 
The land we own with our homes ca: 
be a valuable extension of the house 
The living, working and service area 
within the house should have eas 
access to comparable areas outside. / 
sundeck adjoining a bedroom, a wor j 
area in the yard connected easily t 
garage workshop and a garden area fc 
family and friends just off a living c 
family room, makes maximum use c 
all the property both indoors and out 

The more one speculates upon th 
possibilities, the more he may drear 
about 21st century solutions. Slidin 
glass walls already remove some of th 
barriers to complete integration of in 
doors and out. Unroofed central court 
we already have. Opaque fences sui 
round swimming pools today, whil 
transparent roofs keep out the ’’weath 
er” but admit the sun. 

Perhaps the 21st century will en 


MEMBER 


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ose man’s entire city lot in some plas- 
; envelope — transparent here — 
paque there — colorful, textured and 
r-conditioned. Such speculation is not 
>o fantastic. There is already on the 
tarket a plastic envelope without walls 
jr rafters for use as a greenhouse. The 
ir-conditioning keeps it inflated. And 
le DEW line installations use inflated 
lastic domes which have weathered 
le arctic storms for years. Tenants 
f these domes say they are not difficult 
3 patch where flying ice has cut them 
nd that internal pressure is sufficient 
o prevent collapse despite many simul- 
aneous punctures. 

AUTOMATION IN HORTICULTURE 

Since first he shifted a burden from 
iis own back to that of a pack animal, 
nan has been thinking up new ways 
o get work done without doing it him- 
;elf. Machinery furthered the cause 
md now machines are designed to run 
3 ther machines. 2060 will see still 
nore automation. Man works will¬ 
ingly at tasks he likes to do. But when 
tasks become chores, he automates the 
process and seeks pleasanter tasks. 

Pleasant as gardening can be, it also 
can become a chore. Many a home 
owner today is a slave to his lawn, yet 
manufacturers already have full auto¬ 
mation in irrigation and fast and effi¬ 
cient tools for garden maintenance. 

Crowded gardens like Disneyland 
are well automated today. Irrigation 
’twixt 2:00 a.m. and dawn sprinkles 
lawns, bubbles water into shrubberies 
and flower beds and automatically exe¬ 


cutes a pre-planned program to water 
some things more than others, some 
daily, others less often. 

Many who say today they can’t af¬ 
ford automatic sprinkling for the lawn, 
may soon feel they can ill-afford to be 
without it. Large installations have 
already shown that the savings in cost 
of water alone has paid for automatic 
as compared to manually operated un¬ 
derground sprinklers. And a little re¬ 
finement of existing equipment will 
even do away with the timing device in 
favor of moisture-sensitive elements in 
the root zone which operate the system 
upon the plant’s demand by sensing the 
relative wetness and dryness of the soil. 

Even the good earth is being exten¬ 
sively modified, amended, conditioned 
and literally tailor made specifically 
for intensive uses such as putting 
greens, planters, and other container- 
grown plants. Such special soil mix¬ 
tures are continually improving the en¬ 
vironment of the root zone of plants 
and minimizing factors which might 
limit growth to anything less than the 
maximum capability of the plant. 

The assembly line has been a symbol 
of our rising standard of living. We’ll 
doubtless see de-assembly lines in far 
less than 100 years for the by-products 
of man’s industrial aggressiveness. 
There is a crying need today for such 
de-assembly lines as would make the 
auto graveyard disappear. Much open 
space will be reclaimed for better uses 
and improved landscape when old cars 
can be made to disappear as fast as 
they were manufactured. 


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285 


Man changes the landscape in many 
ways. His factories destroy the natural 
vegetation and use up open space. But 
enlightened industrialists are anticipat¬ 
ing the problem. Many communities 
which frowned upon industry as a de¬ 
stroyer of the landscape, today are wel¬ 
coming industry with open arms. The 
reason is that much blighted landscape 
of the past has been reclaimed by in¬ 
dustry and developed into industrial 
parks which are a real asset to the ap¬ 
pearance as well as the business of a 
community. Piles of junk and trash 
and unsightly acres of storage for long- 
unused equipment are rapidly becom¬ 
ing a thing of the past. 


NEW PLANTS 

Plants, like people, have geneti* 
characteristics. Unlike people, man' 
of the plants of horticulture have Ion’ 
been propagated by dividing the oh 
plants rather than planting seed. Ther' 
is a potential for variation in many cj 
the plants of horticulture which is unex* 
plored. Hybridizing and selecting nev 
forms which could be done, has bee- 
neglected because vegetative propagali 
tion is much faster, easier and cheape; 
to do. 

Our descendants of the 21st centur 
could have plants of types and varie 
ties we have never seen—serving pur 
poses we have not yet even imagined 


i 


MISS DURFEE RESIGNS 


Miss Bertha Durfee resigned her 
position with the Denver Botanic Gar¬ 
dens at the end of September. It is dif¬ 
ficult to imagine this institution without 
her. She has been connected with its 
development during most of the years 
of its existence. Although she was 
listed as Clerk-Stenographer on the 
roster of the City and County of Den¬ 
ver, her services extended far beyond 
what was indicated by her official title. 

In addition to being proficient in 
secretarial work, she is a professional 
horticulturist and an ardent botanist. 
These special qualifications enabled 
her to keep meticulously accurate plant 
records, to participate in the informa¬ 
tion service which the Denver Botanic 
Gardens renders to the gardening pub¬ 
lic and to name plants brought to Bo¬ 
tanic Gardens House for identification. 


286 


Miss Durfee is a graduate of James- 
wn Business College, Jamestown, 
-w York. Following her graduation 
e held various clerical positions, 
uring World War II she served in the 
ACS, with a year and half of foreign 
lty in the South Pacific. She holds a 
achelor of Science Degree in Floricul- 
re and Ornamental Horticulture from 
ornell University. She worked a short 
ne at the New York Agricultural 
xperiment Station, Geneva, New 
ork, and was Graduate Assistant in 
orticulture at Kansas State University. 

With her mother she moved to Den- 
er in 1951 and took a clerical position 
[ the firm of Irving P. Krick Associ- 
tes, Inc. From 1953 to 1955 she was 
mployed by the Colorado Forestry 
nd Horticulture Association and in 
955 began working for the Denver 
iotanic Gardens, where she continued 
ntil her resignation. 

Because of her unique educational 
background and experience, comprising 


clerical and plant science work, her 
resignation leaves a gap in our organi¬ 
zation that will be difficult and perhaps 
impossible to fill. Together with her 
mother she has returned to her native 
state of New York. Her future plans 
are not yet definite. She is considering 
entering Rutgers University to com¬ 
plete requirements for her masters de¬ 
gree. However, if she finds a technical 
position to her liking in some Arbore¬ 
tum or Botanic Garden she may take 
up that type of work. 

Officials and members of the Denver 
Botanic Gardens express to Miss Dur¬ 
fee their sincerest thanks for her long 
and faithful service and extend to her 
their best wishes for happiness and 
success in whatever work she may un¬ 
dertake. It is hoped that some time in 
the future it may be possible to entice 
her to rejoin our staff in some capacity 
more in keeping with her horticultural 
and botanical training. 

A. C. Hildreth, Director 


mmmm ; 

Da ^« The Fall Carden 

M. Walter Pesman 


E nvy may not be a high motive in 
garden design. At times, however, 

1 1 may be quite effective. 

If our neighbor’s garden is showing 
jp so much better than our own just 
now, it may be just a question of the 
use of good fall color. A few simple 
nbservations may be the making of 
improvement of our own. 

Any good landscape architect will 
insist that material by itself does not 
make a good garden, no matter how 
excellent it may be. In fall then, the 
colors that we envy in the neighbor’s 
place and that we lack in our own, 


may not in themselves be the secret. 
Yes, of course, we should take the op¬ 
portunity, at this season, to make a list 
of the best material to furnish breath¬ 
taking fall color. Read the article by 
Frances Novitt; it will give some good 
hints in this. Make a list of the plants 
that are striking in their color — add 
the ones lacking in your own garden. 
That is the beginning — and a very 
important beginning. 

Equally important is the proper lo¬ 
cation of this plant material. Fall color 
is like medicine: a little may be essen¬ 
tial, but that does not mean that a lot 


287 


of it is still better; it may be quite 
harmful in fact. (Did you ever take 
an overdose of liver pills, or quinine, or 
even of tranquilizers?) 

A sumac in autumn may “make” 
a garden if placed in just the right spot. 
A lot of sumacs scattered promiscu¬ 
ously may do nothing more than 
cheapen the effect and may be com¬ 
pared to excessive jewelry on an other¬ 
wise charming lady. A spot of bright 
fall color in the garden where a focal 
point is needed is like a single diamond 
in just the right place. 

A group of evergreens may be the 
very background needed for such a 
spot planting. We might call that spot 
the highlight for the fall garden; it is 
not quite enough. For a rhythmic ef¬ 
fect repeat the color with just a single 
bright fall shrub, far enough away not 
to compete, close enough for the eye 
to be pleased by it. We might call that 
a case of dominance and subordination. 
It always works! 

Well, that is the essence of fall color: 
a well-considered focal point, with a 


repeat for the rest of the garden, ap 
parently accidentally dropped in. Th< 
rest is added refinement. 

Since we have the choice betweer 
trees and shrubs in fall color, why no 
have some variety on that score? Again 
consult the list. Force the eye to lool 
both up and down. 

Orange scarlet and deep crimson dc 
not combine well. Winged euonymu: 
is breathtaking in its fall dress, but 
may well quarrel with other shrubs ir 
its immediate neighborhood; give i 
enough distance. 

Remember that such vines as Engel 
mann ivy may transform the entire 
house into a brilliant spot; is there 
enough unchanging green to act as i 
foil? Green is a true pacifier in the 
garden, as is white in the flower border!) 

One more idea in conclusion: Let u; 
not be carried away by beauty, how: 
ever magnificent, during one perioq 
only. If our garden lacks spring charmj 
it is not too late to plant a hundret 
tulips or other early bulbs. 

For color during winter see the nexi; 
issue of “The Green Thumb.” 


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booklet: WESTERN TREE CONES. 

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Swingle Tree Surgeons offer a complete service to preserve the Beauty 
and Health of your trees, Evergreens, and shrubs. 

SWINGLE 

TREE SURGEONS 

620 So. Dahlia • DE 3-4417 • FR 7-8123 


288 


ried Materials And How To Use Them 


Ruth Lewin 


' reating an arrangement from your 
> own collection of dried material 
a tonic to charm you from routine 
ly-to-day tasks. Once you become 
vare of the variety of colors, patterns 
id shapes to be found in cones, pods 
id flower forms, you are caught in a 
tagic spell. 

In designing swags or autumn cen- 
rpieces, use material varied in shape, 
ze and texture. Here you can bring 
30 ut nature’s contrast and balance 
here sturdy foliage is often combined 
ith smooth-surfaced, but patterned, 
funded cones in clusters or leaves of 
old outline with ruffled flowers. 

A garden is a source of intriguing 
laterials for all sorts of dried decora- 
ions. It is challenging to try to dis- 
over an unusual form or color to add 
o your collection for later enjoyment 
n a design. 

Select mature heads of golden yar- 
ow and hang upside down in a dark 
loset to dry. When Sweet William 
)ods have frilled cups full of black 
eeds, save some for planting and others 
or covering bases such as tree forms. 

Gather lilac seed-pods when they are 
ully formed but still green and also 
ater when they have turned brown and 


are fully open. Use both for miniature 
wreaths as well as for matchbox dec¬ 
orations. 

As soon as statice flowers are fully 
open, gather some and hang them in a 
paper bag. Shield them from light for 
a week or two. They add color to small 
arrangements and are effective in bas¬ 
kets when combined with other colors. 

Reddish rose hips with lavender or 
pink statice make a pleasing combina¬ 
tion. Use orange safflower or deep 
yellow yarrow with creamy or light tan 
colors. Oriental Poppy pods, with their 
ridged and scalloped hats, add to fine 
design in wreaths, corsages, lapel pins 
and baskets. 

Bachelor’s Buttons can be cut at any 
stage. After enjoying a bouquet in the 
house, remove petals and store remain¬ 
ing pods; or when buds show a tip of 
color, dry by hanging upside down in 
a paper bag, or by covering with fine 
sand or powder. When buds are stored 
without covering they will open and 
make a delightful frill of clear, neutral 
color around the tight inner petals. 
These are wonderful in miniature 
wreaths and other small arrangements. 

Bells of Ireland may be dried stand¬ 
ing upright in containers or hung up- 


LEE CHAMBERS 

1594 SO. FOREST 
Complete Care and Maintenance 
of 

Trees, Shrubs and Evergreens 


SK 6-3366 


TREE SURGEON 

DENVER 20, COLORADO 

Custom Spraying 
Fully Licensed and Insured 


MEMBER 


289 


White Tapers 


side down in total darkness. Tinted 
slightly with green color and placed in 
glycerine they will have a more natural 
appearance. 

The list of flowers for dried arrange¬ 
ments is endless. After an arrange¬ 
ment made with fresh flowers has been 
enjoyed in the house, interesting flower 
centers can be dried if faded petals are 
removed. Scabiosa is a good example. 

Other suggestions for plants to dry 
include: Agapanthus (pods), Cocks¬ 
comb (flower), Cupid’s Dart (silvery 
blossoms surmounted by a tuft of 
blue), Globe Amaranth (clover-like 
heads), Honesty or Money Plant (sil¬ 
very seed pods), Gazania (pods left as 
puff balls), Lamb’s Ears (leaves and 
spikes of soft gray whorls) and Love- 
in-a-mist (pods that change from green 
to purple), Poppy (both perennial and 
annual — green pods must be dried in 
darkness), Castor Bean (seed pods and 
stalks — gathered green they turn slate 


Materials: 

Miniature Floral Tapers 
Miniature Cat-tails 
Chrysanthemum (Irene) 

Dried Baby Breath (Pink) 

Dried Glycerined Leaves 

Bittersweet 

Dried Wild Artemisia 

Iron Stone Footed Vase (white) 

Miniature Brass Candelabra 


color), and Rose hips. Gather rose 
hips when they have turned gold or red j 
The color can be intensified by hangings 
them in the hot sun for a few weeks.fl 

Trees and shrubs worth considering!] 
as sources of dried material are: Saintl 
John’s Wort (colorful leaves and)] 
pods), Juniper (foliage and berries),H 
Hydrangea (flowers), Buckwheat Bush] 
(dried seed clusters), Mountain Ma-1 
hogany (branches with plumed seeds),] 
Red Bud (seed pods), Tree of HeavenM 
(seed clusters) and Oak (leaves). 

Those who travel in warmer climates|j 
should watch for: Hakea (pods), Wis-jl 
teria (tendrils), China Berry (berries|j 
— golden yellow and rich brown),?] 
Dragon Tree (orange-colored leaves —j 
bases for baskets and swags), Oleander, 
(pods) and Azalea (leaves and pods).$ 
The latter two shrubs are often grownk 
as potted or tubbed house plants ini 
this area. 


290 


1 


Materials: 

Buddha Candle 

Glycerined Leaves of 
Rubber Plant 

Pumpkin hollowed and 
Filled with Grapes 

Dried Golden Plate 

Dried Corn Tassel 

Cane Tassel 

Peppers — red and green 

Autumn Leaves 

Apples 

Gourds 

Bananas 

Oranges 


The Fat Buddha 


Arrangements by: 

Mrs. Lorene Plender 
969V2 10th Street 
Boulder, Colorado 


Mrs. Malena Boratgis 
2905 E. College Avenue 
Boulder, Colorado 


Mrs. Ruth Lewin 
5785 E. Arapahoe Road 
Boulder, Colorado 


The Denver Forestry & Landscape 
Company 

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and Removal 

In Denver Since 1918 

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291 


Dear Pete, 

Being a do-it-tomorrow gardener, 
each spring I awaken to find my garden 
lacks color — all because I meant to 
plant tulips last fall. I’d love some of 
those exciting fringed tulips I saw at 
Botanic Gardens last spring. May I still 
plant them? Can you supply the 
names? 

Manana 

Dear Doit Now, 

Hairdoes and surreys aren’t the only 
items boasting a fringe on top these 
days. The recently developed fringed 
tulips were supplied in mixture. I re¬ 
gret we don’t have the names. 


As to planting time, tempus is fugit- 
ing! If the garden shops still have the 
bulbs you can plant tulips as late as 
December 1 or as long as the soil is 
workable. It is better, however, tc 
plant all the so-called “Dutch bulbs” as 
soon as they are available in the mar¬ 
ket. Such bulbs do not improve b> 
aging on dealers’ shelves. 

Dear Dotted Eyes, 

My chrysanthemums die in the cen¬ 
ter. Is this common? 

Heartless 


292 


sar Heartless, 

To be vigorous, chrysanthemums 
ust be kept young at heart. Cushion 
pes seem less susceptible to your 
Duble. Each variety seems to have 
> own division schedule. According 
Doc Hildreth, who has probably in- 
oduced more newcomers and served 
, pediatrician to more young chrys- 
lthemums than any other person in 
iis area, some benefit from an- 
aal or biennial root division while 
:hers get along with less frequent divi- 
on. Divide the plants as early in the 
)ring as practicable by separating the 
Id plant into two, four or more sec- 
ons with a knife or spade. Discard 
le dead or weak center part of the 
lump, replant the vigorous division 
nd water immediately. 

Dotted Eyes 


b U l B s ! 

Little ones—big ones—new kinds 
—old favorites— but only the 
best that we can buy—extra top 
size. 

We may not have the greatest 
quantity—but probably have the 
greatest variety and best quality. 

The huge AMARYLLIS are now in 
—the most perfect gift of all— 
come in and see them. 

COTTONWOOD 
GARDEN SHOP 

George and Sue Kelly 

4849 SO. SANTA FE DRIVE, LITTLETON 
PY. 4-0430 


MORGRO FERTILIZER 

The perfect all-around garden fertilizer. 
Morgro is truly a complete plant food, 
giving your garden all the mineral ele¬ 
ments essential to plant growth. Mor¬ 
gro is 25% available plant food con¬ 
taining 6% nitrogen, 10% phosphate, 
4% potash, plus 5% iron sulphate and 
small amounts of available boron, cop¬ 
per, calcium, manganese, magnesium, 
sulphur, zinc. Morgro is made particu¬ 
larly for intermountain soils and pro¬ 
duces a richer, greener growth that is 
easily seen in comparison to areas not 
fed with Morgro. The first choice of 
western gardeners and nurserymen. 


50-lb. bags.3.29 

100-lb. bags..6.50 


Write or call for our new 1961 catalog 

THE ROCKY MOUNTAIN 
SEED CO. 

1321 15th St. MA 3-6223 
Denver, Colo. 


FERTOSAN 


compost 
accelerator 

This BACTERIA CONCENTRATE will rot 
down garden waste, grass cuttings, leaves, 
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No digging • No turning • Simple # Safe 

From Western Seed Co., and 
all good seedsmen. 


MOUNTAIN PEAT 
FERTILIZERS 

Nursery Stock and Evergreens 

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Nursery located 1 mi. west of South 
Wadsworth on the Morrison Road 

Morrison, Colorado 
YUkon 5-1504 


293 


A MONTHLY APPOINTMENT CALENDAR 
Sponsored and Prepared by Botanic Gardens Junior Committee j 

Garden Suggestions for each Month, Designed Especially 
For High Plains-Rocky Mountain Conditions 
Memo Space for Daily Recording of Garden Data 
Available at Botanic Gardens House, 909 York Street 

or 

From Members of Botanic Gardens Junior Committee 

Get the Copies You Need Before They Are Gone 

A Fine Christmas Gift for a Gardener 


Price $ 1.00 


294 


k 


INFORMATION SERVICE AT DENVER BOTANIC 

GARDENS 


We still have not received up-to-date rosters of various garden clubs and 
)lant societies which we need in order to give the correct information to people 
vhen they call us at Denver Botanic Gardens. We want to be as helpful as possible. 
So, won’t you send in a list of the officers of your club or society in order that we 
nay assist people to contact a responsible person in any particular group? 

We now have lists for the following organizations: 

Denver Botanic Gardens Junior Committee 

Men’s Garden Club of Colorado 

The Denver Rose Society 

The Garden Club of Denver 

The Orchid Society 

Around the Seasons Club 

The African Violet Council 


Just mail in the list of names of your new officers together with their telephone 
numbers and we will keep them on file as part of our information service. Send 

them to: 

DENVER BOTANIC GARDENS 
909 York Street 
Denver 6, Colorado 


CONTINUED HOT WEATHER 

(Remember the Weather Forecasts Last Summer?) 

Come to our nursery growing field and select a shade tree 
of your choice that is up to 14-18 feet tall that we move with 
a ball of earth. These are well branched and will give you 

quick shade. 

"GROWING IS OUR BUSINESS" 


LAMEDA 


Denver's Garden Center 

2645 W. Alameda Ave. 


URSERY, Inc. 


Write or call for 
free catalogue 

WE 5-3528 


tyiee*t ~76 u*h6 

DENVER BOTANIC GARDENS 
909 YORK STREET 

DENVER 6, COLORADO 


BLK RT 


U. S. POSTAGE 

PAID 

Permit No. 205 
Denver, Colorado 


DO NOT FOLD 

POSTMASTER: FORM 3547 REQUESTED 


"75 Years — Celebrating Our Diamond Jubilee of Service" 


A visit to our garden shop is a rewarding experience 
for the gardening enthusiast. Here you’ll find a com¬ 
plete line of garden tools, insecticides and plant 
foods and other gardening accessories ... all 
displayed in attractive surroundings. Courteous, ex¬ 
perienced people are on hand to serve you. May we 
see you soon? 

74 Years Experience in the Denver Area. 


A/u/io<yu&>£^*c- 
WEST 38TH AVENUE AND WADSWORTH 
WHEATRIDGE • HA 4-5564 


Ik 


e 


teen 


DECEMBER, 1961 


Magazine for Rocky Mountain Gardeners 


25 CENTS 


COME SEE US FOR PLANTER MATERIALS 

ALSO 


UNUSUAL HOLIDAY DECORATIONS 


Hundreds of beautiful Planters can be 
placed in your home or business place. 
We have a choice selection of plants. 

CALL US AT PY 4-0430 


GEORGE AND SUE KELLY 

4849 So. Santa Fe Drive • Littleton, Colorado 


DECEMBER 
Vol. 18 
No. 9 


EDITORIAL 

COMMITTEE 

M. Walter Pesman, 
Chairman 

Julia Andrews 

Mrs. Alexander Barbour 

Mrs. William Crisp 

Fred R. Johnson 


tPenvet Satanic (fat deni 

To conduct research on plants, both native and exotic, in 
varied plant zones of our region, to evaluate their economic, 
medicinal and horticultural potentials. 

To coordinate the knowledge and experience of botanists, 
horticulturists and gardeners. 

To educate the public in the best use of horticultural materials. 

To maintain a large collection of plant species and varieties for 
study and display. 


CONTENTS 

TITLE PAGE 

Calendar of Events.301 

Notes and Notices.302 

Cut Your Own Christmas Tree, T. C. Pender.303 

Please Repeat That Question, Lee Chambers.305 

The 1961 Orchid Show.308 


Mrs. J. V. Petersen 

Mrs. John Scott 

Dr. Moras Shubert 

Mrs. James P. Steele, Jr. 

Mrs. Edmund Wallace 

Dr. Helen Marsh Zeiner 

Patrick Gallavan 

Mr. Clyde Learned 

Mr. Everett Long 

Mrs. Everett Long 

Dr. A. C. Hildreth 
Editor 

THE COVER 

Drawn by 

Mrs. Beverly Pincoski 

Members 


What the Arnold Arboretum Is, Donald Wyman.309 

Garden Novelties for Noel, Julia H. Andrews.314 

Winter Irrigation, Herb Gundell.316 

Exotics of Colorado, Dr. Helen Marsh Zeiner.318 

'Twas the Night Before Christmas in a Garden 

Shop, Sue Kelly.319 

Pete Ponders.321 

Propagating Evergreens by Mature Wood Cuttings, 

Carl J. C. Jorgensen.323 

The Christmas Tree, Mrs. John Scott.325 

1961 Index.326 

You Are Invited.329 


SENT FREE TO ALL MEMBERS OF THE ORGANIZATION. 
REGULAR MEMBERSHIP, $5.00; PARTICIPATING, $10.00; 
SUPPORTING, $25.00; CONTRIBUTING, $50.00; SUSTAIN¬ 
ING, $100.00. 

Copyright 1961 

DENVER BOTANIC GARDENS, INC. 

A non-profit, privately financed organization 

EA 2-9656 MA 3-1133, Ext. 428 

909 YORK STREET DENVER 6, COLORADO 


f^Candle Cottage 


| Candlemakers of the finest and most unique candles for 
all occasions and purposes. ^ Come in and browse among 
the many beautiful and unusual designs. ^ Traditional tapers 
and candles in a myriad of sizes and colors. ^ Contemporary 
and traditional decorative candles in statuary, floral, and other 
designs up to 18 inches tall to complement all tastes. |f§ 
Special occasion candles in a variety of sizes, designs, and 
colors for all festive and solemn occasions. ^ Aromatic and 
novelty candles with dainty scents and unusual designs. JU 
Candle accessories and special gifts including Knott’s Berry 
Farm jams and jellies. | Visit the Candle Cottage for a fas¬ 
cinating glimpse of the ancient art of candlemaking now com¬ 
bined with just a touch of modern science for the most beautiful 
and long-lasting candles available. 


THE CANDLE COTTAGE, 5735 EAST ARAPAHOE, R.F.D. 3, BOULDER, COLC 


300 


CALENDAR of E VENTS 


ery Saturday Morning — 9:10 a.m. 
KLZ Radio. The Green Thumb 
Program by Herbert Gundell, 

Denver County Agent 
ery Saturday Afternoon — 4:30 p.m. 
KLZ-TV Channel 7. The Week-end 
! Gardener by Herbert Gundell 
Lurth Sunday — 2:00-4:00 p.m. 

I Colorado Cactophiles 

AT BOTANIC GARDENS HOUSE 
DECEMBER 

st — Fri., 2:00 p.m. Floral Art Study 

Club Tea and Christmas Display 
:,nd — Sat., 1:00-5:00 p.m., Floral Art 
Christmas Display 

|th — Mon., 2:00 p.m., County Agents 
Meeting 

7:30 p.m., Swingle Study Group 
>th — Wed., 10:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m., 

Colorado Federation of Garden 
Clubs State Board Meeting 
7:30 p.m., Botany Club 
■th — Thurs., 7:45 p.m., Orchid Society 
!th — Fri., 12:30 p.m., Mountain View 
Garden Club 


11th — Mon., 9:30 a.m., Botanic Gardens 
Junior Committee. Making 
Christmas Garlands 
10:00 a.m., Judges’ Council 
12th — Tues., Herbarium Study Group 
13th — Wed., 7:30 p.m., Landscape 
Contractors 

14th — Thurs., 10:00 a.m., “Around the 
Seasons” Meeting followed by 
Holiday Buffet 

19th — Tues., 9:30 a.m., Garden Club of 

Denver. Making Christmas Trees 
for Hospitals 

20th —Wed., 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Fun 
with Flowers Workshop 
27th — Wed., 7:30 p.m., Landscape 
Contractors 

JANUARY 

2nd — Tues., 12:30 p.m., Mountain View 
Garden Club 

3rd — Wed., 7:30 p.m., Botany Club 
4th — Thurs., 7:45 p.m., Orchid Society 
8th — Mon., 10:00 a.m., Judges’ Council 
9th — Tues., Herbarium Study Group 
10th — Wed., 7:30 p.m., Landscape 
Contractors 


:NVER BOTANIC GARDENS NOTE PAPER AVAILABLE — send your personal notes to your friends on 
ir attractive note paper with Botanic Gardens House etched on the front. Available from Mrs. Vincent, 
>tanic Gardens House, 909 York Street. $1.00 per box. 


SOUTH DENVER EVERGREEN NURSERY 

1534 South Broadway Established 1920 Spruce 7-2350 

COMPLETE LANDSCAPING SERVICE • EVERGREENS 
LICHEN-COVERED ROCKS • WHITE AND ROSE QUARTZ 

CHRISTMAS TREES • WREATHS • GARLANDS • FIREPLACE WOOD 

MISTLETOE • HOLLY 


Merry Christmas and Happy New Year 

FROM 


SWINGLE 


TREE SURGEONS 


620 So. Dahlia 


DE 3-4417 


FR 7-8123 


NOTES AND NOTICES 


BONSAI EXHIBIT — The annual Bonsai Show was held October 8 and 9 at the 
Denver United States National Bank Building, with more than one-thousand entries. Plant 
materials used included evergreens, conifers, deciduous shrubs and trees, bamboo and citrus 
trees. The bonsai ranged in height from miniatures four to ten inches to evergreens up to 
two and a half feet. The beautiful containers and natural wood bases added much of interest 
to this outstanding show, which was sponsored by the Denver Bonsai Club. Mr. George Inai 
is President of the club, Mr. George Fukuma is Vice-President, and Mr. Shiichi Fukuhara is 
Advisor. A Japanese floral art exhibit with many interesting materials and containers was 
sponsored by the Denver Floral Club under the direction of Mrs. Yuri Noda, Mrs. R. Naka- 
tuska, and Mrs. T. Takamatus. 

SCIENTISTS MEET IN DENVER — The American Association for the Advancement 
of Science will meet this year in Denver, December 26 to 30, inclusive. In the Association’s 
113 years of existence this will be its 3rd Denver Meeting. Others were in 1937 and 1901 
All the principal sciences will be represented, including a strong section of Botanical Sciences' 
About 1,800 papers in various scientific fields will be presented. The latest science films will? 
be shown and numerous scientific exhibits will be on display. The public is invited. Regis-f 
tration fee for the entire session is $3.00 and $1.00 for the registrant’s spouse or child over 15 
Registration will be in the Hilton Hotel. 

NEW STATE PARKS DIRECTOR —Mr. George T. O’Malley has been appointee 
Director of the Colorado State Parks and Recreation Board. 

NEW STAFF MEMBER — Mrs. Charles Pincoski has been appointed to fill the 
clerical position recently vacated by Miss Bertha Durfee in the Denver Botanic Gardens: 
Mrs. Pincoski entered upon her new duties on the sixth of November. 

BOOKS AND BOOKLETS FOR SALE 

II 

The following publications are available for purchase in the office at Botanic Gardens House, 909 Yorl 


Street: 

Around the Seasons by S. R. DeBoer .$1.0(1 

Colorado Evergreens by Robert E. More . 2.5( 

Colorado Wild Flowers by Harold and Rhoda Roberts (a museum pictorial). 1 . 2 } 

Fruit Key (identification of plants by their fruit) by William Harlow .6(, 

Handbook of Plants of the Colorado Front Range by William Weber . 5.0(J 

(Also available in paper bound edition). 3.0(i 

How to Grow Good Gardens in the Sunshine States by George Kelly .Spiral 3.2.1 

Regular 3.0(i 

Meet the Natives by M. Walter Pesman . Spiral 3.6( 

Regular 3.0(j 

Nature Games by Paul W. Nesbit .6» 

Planning for America’s Wildlands by Arthur H. Carhart . 2.5* 

Plants of Rocky Mountain National Park by Ruth Ashton Nelson. l.li, 

Saga of a Forest Ranger by Len Shoemaker . 5.0(1 

The Secret of the Green Thumb by Henry and Rebecca Northen . 5.0(|! 


Twig Key (identification of trees and shrubs in winter) by William Harlow .6< 

ARTICLES OF LASTING INTEREST TO TODAY S GARDENER 

In past issues of The Green Thumb are several articles of great interest. Copies may be obtained fror 
Mrs. He len Vincent at Botanic Gardens House. Among such articles are: 

Lilacs for Colorado by Milton J. Keegan — December, 1944.lj 

(Beautifully illustrated) 

Flowers and Gardens of the Central City Region — July-August, 1946.5; 

(By several authors — well illustrated) 

Hawthorns by M. Walter Pesman — May, 1950.p 

(Very descriptive and well illustrated) 

302 


2UT YOUR OWN 

T. C. Pender 1 

4 Do-It-Yourself, cut-your-own-Christmas tree project under the super- 
vision of the U. S. Forest Service has been an annual affair on the Roosevelt 

i lational Forest west of Boulder near Sugarloaf Mountain since it was started in 
953. A total of 33,205 individual Christmas trees had been taken from the 

Drest by the end of the 1960 Christmas season. 

The project has been accepted by the public with a great deal of enthusiasm 
nd has become a traditional winter outing for family groups who return year 
fter year to cut their trees. It is a recreation activity in which the whole family 
an participate. In fact, almost four out of five cars going to the area contain 
•hildren, many have dogs, a few have cats and in one instance a parakeet was 

)bserved. 

Some hardships and inconveniences are encountered. But in spite of usually 
ligh winds with drifting snow and cold, waiting in long lines of cars and, finally, 
valking over what must seem miles of steep snow-covered slopes to locate and 
;ut a tree, everyone seems to have a good time. Nor is the work over when the 
;ree is cut. The tree must be skidded, dragged, rolled or carried to the car and 
in some way fastened to the car. Then there is the process of getting out of the 
irea. This usually requires putting on a set of tire chains and waiting to have the 
tree tagged when the end of the area is reached. Often, the tree finally taken 
home is of lower quality than could have been purchased at a commercial lot at 
certainly considerable less total cost. Nevertheless, the families have a day s 
outing, perhaps an adventure and lots of fun. And that’s why many come back 

year after year. 

The program was initiated in 1953 by Ranger W. S. Beckley as a project to 
thin dense stands of trees, and to provide families an opportunity to select, cut, 
sand take home a Christmas tree. In the initial year only 792 trees were cut. 
i Since that time the program has grown in popularity and between seven and eight 

' thousand trees are now being removed annually. 

The cutting area is a tract of some 600 acres of a generally dense stand of 
1 Douglas fir ranging in size from very small saplings to trees six to ten inches in 
diameter. The Sugarloaf area is well adapted to a project of this kind. The cars 
I are routed from Boulder one way and return to Boulder by a different route, 
j They move through the cutting area in only one direction. The road is relatively 
narrow in places and some traffic jams occur during the peak of traffic. Some¬ 
times it has been necessary to turn traffic back because of the lateness of the day 
and traffic is temporarily tied up for one cause or another. Our rangers dislike 
to do this, especially when there are several children in a car. It s a great disap¬ 
pointment to them. But we cannot take a chance if it s late afternoon and there 
t are too many cars on a mountain road. 

X T. C. Pender, author of this article, is in charge of the Boulder District of the Roosevelt 
National Forest. He attended Denver Public School, took forestry at Colorado State 
University and had graduate work at the University of Michigan. 


303 


Their Christmas Tree Cut and Loaded 

Permits are sold for the number of trees desired as each car enters into the 
cutting area. A sheet of instructions covering the rules under which each tree is 
to be selected and cut is also given out at the entrance to the area. The tree is 
then selected and cut somewhere in the area. As the car leaves the cutting area, I 
the tree or trees are inspected and a tag is attached to each tree for which there 
is a permit. 

The area has been placed under management to produce Christmas trees 
under a sustained yield program. A survey early in the program provided an 
estimate that 200,000 trees could then be cut from the area. Many of the trees, 
however, because of crowding conditions are inferior for Christmas trees. The 
quality of many of the trees for Christmas trees will increase as the thinning 
process continues through the cutting of Christmas trees. Some trees, however, 
will never make any kind of a tree for Christmas or other use and crews are 
employed to remove them and to assist with the thinning process. 

In some parts of the area, trees have grown too large for Christmas trees. ! 
In these stands the larger trees will be removed through commercial cutting, if 1 
necessary, to provide space in which to grow trees suitable for Christmas trees. ; 
An occasional large tree in stands of smaller trees will also be removed in order 
to stimulate fuller growth in the tops of smaller trees. In some cases, the larger 
trees are cut and topped for Christmas trees during the annual sale. While this 
practice might appear inconsistent with good forest management, it assists in the 
planned program for the area. From the money angle, the larger tree topped 
for Christmas returns one dollar. The same tree if cut for mine props or 

304 


tosts under commercial sales returns approximately eighteen cents, or, if left 
nother 90 to 100 years to grow to maturity it would return approximately 
eventy-five cents at current stumpage prices for sawtimber. 

It will take several years to get the area into condition for the maximum 
iroduction of Christmas trees. A sustained cutting of ten thousand trees annually 
vill be possible with a cutting cycle of between 20 to 25 years. Natural reproduc- 
ion of Douglas fir is generally good in locations where stands have been thinned, 
leed trees are being marked to be left uncut to provide for natural seeding. Vacant 
paces within the stands and treeless areas on open slopes are being planted 
innually. When these areas are established, planting will be used to fill in spaces 
vhere natural reproduction is not satisfactory. 

It is gratifying to the Forest Officers in charge of the project that so many 
'amilies do make use of the opportunity to get their own Christmas trees. About 
rnlf the people are from the Metropolitan Denver area while the rest come mostly 
rom Northern Colorado Communities and as far away as Sterling and Ft. Morgan. 


'Plectee 

2ue4tC<M 


Lee Chambers 

T o Plant or Not to Plant, that 
seems to be the question. Whether 
’tis nobler to suffer the grotesque butch¬ 
ery necessary to clear high lines or to 
avoid the butchery by not planting trees 
at all. 

I am sure that in your travels around 
Denver you have seen the graceful urn¬ 
shaped elms which readily grow up to 
80 feet high and produce a luxuriant 
foliage that results in the more than 
welcome shade and coolness on our 
colonnaded avenues. You have also 
! seen the beautiful soft maples that line 
j some of our older streets with a grace- 
: ful spread of their 70 to 80 foot crowns 
that enable them to meet over the mid¬ 
dle of the street. The grace and sym¬ 
metry of a well cared-for shade tree is 


Hawthorn 

most apparent in the dormant leafless 
season. 

Contrast the lacy tracery of these 
trees with the ones that you see along 
Sixth Avenue west of University Boule¬ 
vard, or any others that have been 
repeatedly chopped off to maintain 
clearance for high voltage wires. These 
trees have all the grace and beauty of 
a worn-out whisk broom. This is one 
of the problems that also must be faced 
in landscaping the newer parts of the city 
in which most of the overhead wires oc- 


305 


1 


Photo by Public Service Co. of Colorado; o 
Tall Trees Under Power Lines Necessarily "Butchered" 


cupy an easement at the back of the 
property where, again, trees may in¬ 
terfere. 

To plant or not to plant, that seems 
to be the question. But somehow it 
seems to me that there should be an¬ 
other alternative. Perhaps with a little 
foresight and a talk with someone fa¬ 
miliar with local conditions and trees, 
one could find a compromise — trees 
that do not need butchery to retain a 
size compatible with overhead wires. 
Some of these smaller trees are very 
desirable. For example: 

Amur maple, Acer ginnala, colors 
beautifully in the fall, has a bright green 
typical maple leaf and yet grows to 
about a maximum of 25 feet in height. 
Another advantage of this miniature 
maple is that the wood is quite strong 


in contrast to the brittle woods of some! I 
other maples. 

Rocky Mountain Maple, Acer glab-\ 
rum, is somewhat smaller than ^4.1 
ginnala but similar in other respects.J 
It does not have the red fall color. 

Crabapples, Malus sp. — So muchU 
has been written about the crabapplesi 
that it would be redundancy to describe I 
them here. They are excellent low|| 
trees. 

Hawthorns, like people, come in alll 
shapes and sizes and should be selected! 
carefully for the site they are to occupy. 
Cockspur Hawthorn, Crataegus crus-\ ’ 
galli, and Washington Hawthorn, C.l 
phaenopyrum, could be used under! 
power and telephone wires. 

Golden Rain Tree, Koelreuteriat 
paniculata, is another tree that comes| 


306 


o mind. This is a round-headed tree 
bout 30 feet high with a compound 
eaf. It produces many flowers in 
8-inch panicles in July and August 
vhich result in Japanese lantem-like 
ruits with thin, papery walls. Very 
ew of these trees are in evidence in 
Denver, but I think we shall see more 
)f them. 

Sumac — there are two tall sumacs 
which do well in this area: The Smooth 
Sumac, Rhus glabra, grows about 10 to 
20 feet high and has smooth bark; the 
Staghorn Sumac, Rhus typhina, grows 
to 30 feet and the small branches have 
la velvety hair that resembles the velvet 
of a deer’s horn. Hence, the name. 
Both of these species have a variety 
palled laciniata in which the leaflets are 
deeply cut with fine teeth. Two of the 
attractions of these sumacs are the 
j brilliant red coloring in autumn and the 
prominent terminal panicles of fruits. 

While we are trying to find trees that 
will fit under overhead wires, let’s not 
overlook the evergreens. Here is a wide 
field. For example, the pines: 

Dwarf Stone Pine, Pinus pumila, 
usually a shrub about 10 feet high. 

Swiss Mountain Pine, P. mugo, 
which can -grow as high as 40 feet but 
our cultivated forms usually are shorter, 
can easily be kept under control by 
regular pruning. 

Pinon Pine, P. cembroides var. 
edulis, may grow to 50 feet high. Pinon 
Pines are very popular nowadays. They 
respond to pruning in a most satis¬ 
factory way. 

Another suitable group of evergreens 
are the familiar junipers. Here you can 
| find almost any height you want. You 
can start with the Eastern Red Cedar, 
Juniperus virginiana, which grows to 
100 feet high, and come all the way 
down to the Creeping Juniper, /. hori- 


Photo by Public Service Co. of Colo 

Broken Limb on Power Lines 


zontalis, which creeps along the ground. 
Some of the best members are: 

Rocky Mountain Juniper, Juniperus 
scopulorum, which grows about 35 feet 
high. 

Chinese Juniper, Juniperus chinensis, 
the commonest form of which is Pfitzer 
Juniper, /. chinensis var. pfitzeriana, 
that usually reaches a height of about 
5 feet. But there are varieties of this 
juniper in cultivation that grow 15 feet 
high and wild forms that sometimes 
reach 60 feet in height. 

The preceding list does not include 
all the trees that could be used under 
high lines but is only an off-hand listing 
of those that I meet quite frequently 
around town. There have been numer¬ 
ous books written on this subject and 
I would recommend that you check the 
Helen Fowler Library for references in 
this field. 

So you see! To plant or not to plant, 
that is not the question. The question 
is “What to plant and where.” 


307 


e Ity6l Otclud <z~>lww 


The Denver Orchid Society held its 
second annual orchid show October 
21 and 22, at Botanic Gardens House. 
Approximately 1500 people attended. 

On display were hundreds of 
blooms, representing several genera of 
orchids, including Phalaenopsis, Dend- 
robium, Odontoglossum, Vanda, Onci- 
dium, and the familiar Cattleya. About 
20 members had exhibits in the show. 
No prizes were awarded, as the show is 
not competitive. 

The Denver Orchid Society has 56 
members. Officers are Mr. Franklin 
N. McClelland, president; Mr. Klaus 
Abegg, vice-president; Mrs. George 
Dreith, treasurer and Mrs. Donald O. 
Sullivan, secretary. 

Meetings of the Society are held at 
Botanic Gardens House, 909 York 
Street, at 7:45 P.M. on the first Thurs¬ 
day of each month. The public is al¬ 
ways welcome. 

Franklin N. McClelland 


A Few of Many Fine Exhibits at the Show 


The article on garden color in winter promised for the 
December issue will appear in the Jan.-Feb. issue. 


308 


Donald Wyman 


P rofessor Charles S. Sargent, the 
first Director of the Arnold Arbo¬ 
retum, described this great garden of 
Harvard University as “a museum 
founded and carried on to increase the 
knowledge of trees,” and directed “not 
merely as a New England museum but 
as a national and international institu¬ 
tion as anxious to help a student in 
I Tasmania or New Caledonia as in 
Massachusetts.” 

Today the Arnold Arboretum stands 
as a living monument to the man who 
devoted more than half a century to 
developing it into a center of tremen¬ 
dous scientific value as well as of dis¬ 


tinctive charm. To the generosity of 
James Arnold, a New Bedford mer¬ 
chant, the Arboretum owes its exist¬ 
ence. But to Sargent belongs the credit 
of transforming a deserted farm into 
one of the world’s greatest living col¬ 
lections of hardy shrubs and trees. 

Beautiful at all times, the appeal of 
the Arboretum is irresistible in the 
spring when the cherry blossoms, for- 
sythias, magnolias, lilacs and azaleas 
usher in the gay season. Singly, in 
couples, by families, and in groups of 
varying size and interest, visitors come 
to share the color, fragrance and sylvan 
peace of the garden from which motor 


309 


traffic is excluded. It is not unusual to 
have fifty thousand nature enthusiasts 
in the Arboretum on “Lilac Sunday,” 
or when the cherries and azaleas are at 
their height of loveliness. School chil¬ 
dren, Scout troops, garden clubs, sight¬ 
seers and countless others broaden their 
appreciation of nature through visits to 
this park. 

The Arboretum is also an experi¬ 
ment station in horticulture, cooperat¬ 
ing in various ways with agricultural 
experiment stations throughout the 
United States and Canada. There is a 
particularly close affiliation with other 
divisions of Harvard University, such 
as the Bussey Institute, the Cabot 
Foundation, the Departments of Biol¬ 
ogy and Landscape Architecture and 
with other neighboring universities. It 
is also a service center which supplies 
valuable information to landscape 
architects, nurserymen, park adminis¬ 
trators, foresters and home owners in¬ 
terested in hardy shrubs and trees 
throughout the entire country. It is in¬ 
teresting to note that the daily corre¬ 
spondence of the Arboretum staff 
members is as much with individuals 
thousands of miles away who have 
asked for information, as it is with 
residents of Massachusetts. It is a 
clearing house for seeds and plants 
which are sent to it from every part of 
the world where hardy plants grow. 

Nearly 6,000 kinds of trees, shrubs 
and vines may be found in the Arbo¬ 
retum. Its library, today containing 
over 51,000 books and 18,000 pam¬ 
phlets, is probably the best special col¬ 
lection of books on woody plants 
outside the British Museum, and its 
world-famous Herbarium contains 
over 726,000 specimens at the present 
time. 

The Arboretum is controlled by the 
President and Fellows of Harvard Uni¬ 
versity acting as trustees under the will 


of James Arnold. It is financed entirely 
from endowment income and from an¬ 
nual gifts for immediate use. The pres¬ 
ent staff includes 25 individuals, exclu¬ 
sive of grounds crew and office help. 
It is open to the public every day in the 
year from sunrise to sunset. 

EARLY HISTORY 

In March, 1872, Harvard University 
set aside 125 acres of the Bussey Farm 
for the new Arboretum. From time tc 
time other tracts of land were added 
until the total area today is 265 acres 
in Jamaica Plain, with an additional: 
100 acres in Weston, thirteen miles 
away. As only a small part of the po¬ 
tential number of specimens which 
might be expected to withstand the 
climate were at that time to be founc 
in any collection, it was necessary to go; 
outside of North America to the far 
corners of the earth to procure the;' 
thousands of exotic plants which make! 
the Arboretum an important scientific 
station. The search, which still con-} 
tinues, has included every country in 
Europe, the Caucasus, Eastern Siberia,} 
China, Korea, Japan, Formosa, Aus-! 
tralia, Indo-Malaysia and Africa from 
the equator south. 

In November, 1873, Professor Sar¬ 
gent, then thirty-two years of age and 
Director of the Harvard Botanic Gar-j 
den, was appointed Director of thejf 
Arnold Arboretum. Under the terms 
of the Arnold will, which set apart two- 
thirds of the income from the bequesk 
to accumulate until the fund reached 
$150,000, he had only $3,000 a year 
with which to convert a farm, partly 
covered with native trees, into a scien¬ 
tific tree station. The property hac 
excellent possibilities, with several hills 
and meadows, a brook, small ponds, a 
rocky cliff and a grove of splendid 
native hemlock, but there was a great 
need of cultivation. The work of form¬ 
ing a nursery was begun at once, green- 


310 


Adult Class in Basic Botany 


grounds with the exception of the drives 
and walks. 

THE CONTRIBUTIONS OF PLANT 
HUNTERS 

In 1877 came the first opportunity 
to obtain American plants not then in 
cultivation, when Sargent was commis¬ 
sioned by the Federal government to 
prepare a report on the forests and 
forest wealth of the nation. He travelled 
into every wooded region from the At¬ 
lantic to the Pacific and chose able 
assistants from various parts of the 
country. A number of these assistants 
continued to supply seeds and speci¬ 
mens and secured for the Arboretum 
information about the trees and shrubs 
in their native habitats. Close contact 
with all the important European and 
American botanic gardens and nurser¬ 
ies enabled Sargent to exchange plants 
and obtain many additions to the gar¬ 
den. The first direct consignment of 
seeds from Eastern Asia, sent from 
the Agricultural College at Sapporo, in 
northern Japan, reached the Arboretum 


I houses being available for the propaga- 
I tion of the few plants which could at 
: that time be found in the vicinity. 

Frederick Law Olmsted, Senior, the 
noted landscape architect, proposed an 
idea for making substantial improve- 
| ments despite the small budget and his 
proposal was finally accepted. Mr. 
Olmsted was planning a park system 
for Boston at the time, and he sug- 
I gested the possibility of making the 
Arboretum’s land part of the system, 
the city to build its roads and provide 
j police protection. 

Thus the City of Boston took title to 
| the lands of the Arboretum in Decem¬ 
ber, 1882, leasing the whole tract to 
the President and Fellows of Harvard 
for a thousand years, at a rental of one 
dollar a year, “and so on from time to 
time forever.” The Arboretum received 
all the advantages of perpetual, tax- 
free ownership of the land and, in re¬ 
turn, the University agreed to open the 
Arboretum to the public from sunrise 
to sunset during every day in the year, 
while reserving entire control of the 


311 


. ..- 1 w*» *^***»^^ 


in December, 1878. Since then, it has 
assembled a notable collection of Ori¬ 
ental trees and shrubs, many of the 
most ornamental coming as the result 
of the travels of Ernest Henry Wilson, 
an Arboretum staff member from 1906 
until his death in 1930. Today corre¬ 
spondents from all over the world are 
still sending in plant material, some of 
which is new to America. Some 3,000 
woody plants never before grown in 
America have been introduced here as 
a result of the Arboretum’s efforts — 
an imposing record! 

Simultaneously with the formation of 
the living collections Sargent built up a 
rich botanical library and a large her¬ 
barium. Besides being a storehouse of 
scientific knowledge, the Arboretum 
was becoming a research laboratory for 
experiments with decided commercial 
value. In the scientific knowledge of 
landscape architecture, as well as of 
timber production in the United States, 
the Arboretum plays an important part, 
for here the habits of more kinds of 
trees can be studied than anywhere 
else in the country. 

INTRODUCTIONS OF THE ARNOLD 
ARBORETUM 

During its 89 years of existence, the 
Arnold Arboretum has introduced well 
over 3000 woody plants new to this 
country, some of them never before 
grown in gardens anywhere in the 
world. A majority of these introduc¬ 
tions, of course, came as the result of 
trips to Japan and China taken by E. H. 
Wilson and the first Director, Charles 
Sprague Sargent, both of whom took 
several trips at the turn of the century 
to the Orient and sent home seeds and 
plants of outstanding ornamental merit. 

It is hard to believe that a plant as 
common as the Japanese Barberry was 
once one of the “new” and “rare” 
plants grown in the nurseries of the Ar¬ 
nold Arboretum, yet such is the case. 


Since it was introduced, this plant has 
proved its usefulness, so much so that 
it is one of the most common shrubs in 
our gardens today. 

Some of the plants, like the hardy 
strain of the Cedar of Lebanon (Cedrus 
libani), are the result of particular mis¬ 
sions. In this case, the Cedar of Leba¬ 
non grown in the warmer parts of the 
United States never proved hardy under 
New England conditions, so Professor 
Sargent commissioned a special trip of 
collectors in Asia Minor to collect seeds 
from trees growing naturally at their: 
northernmost source. This was done in 
the Anti-Taurus and Taurus mountain 
ranges and trees grown from these seeds; 
have proved perfectly hardy under Ar¬ 
nold Arboretum conditions. 

The introduction of the Dawn Red¬ 
wood (Metasequoia glyptostroboides) 
by the Arnold Arboretum in 1948, 
makes a fascinating story. This plant, 
supposed to have been extinct for mil- \ 
lions of years, was suddenly found, com-: 
pared with fossil material and, what is 
most important, distributed to all cor¬ 
ners of the earth by the Arnold Arbo- ;| 
return. 

In other cases, the collection of seeds j 
of new plants has been merely a happy 
coincidence, as was the case of Kolk- \ 
witzia amabilis. E. H. Wilson saw a 
plant in fruit, unknown to him, col-: 
lected some of the seeds, and when the ;< 
plants were grown in the Arnold Arbo- 
return from this original collection he 
was agreeably surprised to see the flori- j 
ferous and highly ornamental plant 
later named the Beautybusn. 

Still other plants are the result of 
accident. The beautiful “Arnold” and 
“Dorothea” Crab Apples were merely 
chance seedlings found growing in. the 
Arboretum and at flowering time their 
value was noted. Rhododendron ob- 
tusum arnoldianum is another beautiful 
example of a chance seedling growing 


312 


Sorbus alnifolia 
introduced by 
Arnold Arboretum 


actually as a weed among other sup¬ 
posedly more valued plants, but when 
it bloomed, its true value was quickly 
noted and, since being introduced, it 
has proved a popular azalea in many 
nurseries. 

More recently, may new plants have 
occurred as the result of scientific plant 
breeding done at the Arnold Arbore¬ 
tum. Prunus ‘Hally Jolivette,’ Forsythia 
‘Beatrix Farrand,’ F. ‘Karl Sax,’ F. 
‘Arnold Dwarf,’ Malus ‘Henrietta Cros¬ 
by,’ M. ‘Henry F. du Pont,’ and M. 
‘Blanche Ames’ are only a few. These 
have all been introduced to the trade in 
this country and abroad, so that home 
owners and plantsmen in general can 
eventually obtain them for ornamental 
planting. 

And so it is through a combination 


of these means that thousands of plants 
are now growing in the Arnold Arbo¬ 
retum. Not all of them are of out¬ 
standing value. Some very definitely 
are not, but they are all being grown in 
this large test garden to determine, over 
a period of years, which are the meri¬ 
torious ones. It is interesting to note, 
since the institution has been in exist¬ 
ence for so many years, that there are 
many valuable “additions” to American 
gardens still hidden away in the exten¬ 
sive Arboretum collections. Some of 
these may still prove worthy of com¬ 
mercial distribution. A trip through 
the grounds helps one to appreciate this 
tremendous wealth of plant material 
from which it is still possible to make 
“new” selections. 

(To be concluded) 


313 


Garden 

Novelties 

for 

NOEL 

Julia H. Andrews 


A “number one” suggestion for the Christ¬ 
mas gift to the beginning gardener or any 
High Plains-Rocky Mountain gardener is a 
membership in Denver Botanic Gardens. 
Along with other benefits of membership 
comes The Green Thumb magazine written 
just for gardeners in this area. $5.00 a year. 

Send your check to 

Denver Botanic Gardens 
909 York Street 
Denver 6, Colorado 


© 


This useful 
DIBBER tool is perfect 
fj for the gardener with a “yen” for 
annuals. A “dibber” makes plant¬ 
ing seedlings and small bulbs go 
very much faster. Price $2.25. 
Catalog No. S1072. 

Order from 

Vaughan’s Seed Co. 

601 West Jackson Blvd. 
Chicago, Illinois 


This suggestion is for the indoor gardener 
with an appreciation of Oriental art. Grace¬ 
ful black and grey prints of timed-radiation 
pictures of flowers show Nature’s geometrical 
designing. Of particular interest to this 
shopper was “the Lotus” and “the Tulips.” 

Write 

California Arboretum Foundation, Inc. 

301 North Baldwin Avenue 
Arcadia, California 

for a complete list of the flowers photo¬ 
graphed by Dr. Dain L. Tasker. 


BIRD SHELTER 

This sculpture is for the birds! A con- ( 
temporary bird shelter for the gardener | 
with a flair for the “modern.” It is available 
in natural red terra-cotta, $10.50; unglazed 
off-white, $10.50; glazed matte white or i 
black, $12.75. Included is a 5 foot length i 
plastic covered wire with which to hang it. 

Order from 

Architectural Pottery 
2020 South Robertson Blvd. 

Los Angeles 34, California 


WIRE FRUIT PICKER 


This gift is perfect for the gardener who 
has everything, including crabapple trees 
over the terrace. Pick them before they fall 
with this wire fruit picker. It fastens onto 
the end of a pole which is not included. 
Price $1.15. Catalog No. SI 113. 

Order from 

Vaughan’s Seed Co. 

601 West Jackson Blvd. 

Chicago, Illinois 


314 


There is a practical gardener that prefers 
to “do-it-himself” on every Christmas list. 
The Hosemaster spray gun was made for 
him. It comes complete with screw-on plastic 
bottle in which you pour your insecticides 
and liquid fertilizers at full strength. Screw 
the gun on the end of your hose and turn it 
on. A monitoring device on the gun can be 
adjusted as you spray for number of tea¬ 
spoons of insecticide per gallon of water. 
Easy to control and adequate pressure for 
spraying small trees. Price $5.95. 

Available at 

Cottonwood Garden Shop 
4849 South Santa Fe Drive 
Littleton, Colorado 

For the armchair gardener here is a rust¬ 
proof iron bench available in 4, 5, 6 or 8- 
foot lengths with or without arms. Made by 
local craftsmen from a Jane Silverstein Ries 
design for her own garden. It comes in 
black or white but can be any color you 
specify for a small extra charge. The 4-foot 
length is $75.00 delivered to your door in 
the Denver area. 

Order from 

Dufficy Iron Works, Inc. 

745 Decatur Street 
Denver 4, Colorado 


A new nozzle for 
special watering 
problems. The 
“Fogg-it Nozzle” 
breaks water into a 
fine mist for water¬ 
ing seed beds, and 
new plantings. Ex¬ 
cellent for the new 
homeowner with a 
newly seeded lawn to bring up. Price 
$1.95. 

Available at 

Simpson Seed Co. 

1515 Champa Street 
Denver 2. Colorado 

A complete garden for your window sill. 
A divided plastic tray for peat pots, potting 
soil and a packet of herb seeds. 

Delux Port-a-Planter includes 1 doz. 1 3 A" 
square peat pots, 79$. 

Jumbo Port-a-Planter includes 2 doz. 2 Vx" 
round pots, $2.49. 

Vi Peck Baccto Potting Soil, 59$. 

All available at 

Simpson Seed Co. 

1515 Champa Street 
Denver 2, Colorado 


Garden 

Seat 

Designed 

by 

Jane 

Silverstein 

Ries 


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315 


A gift for the collector. A baby pigeon in 
bronze or lead 334" high. A pair makes a 
fine accessory for the garden and a delight 
to any gardener’s eye. Bronze, $45.00; lead, 
$6.50, plus shipping costs. 

Order from 

Kenneth Lynch & Sons 
Wilton, Connecticut 


A Christmas gift for the grandchildren 
(or grandparents also for that matter) is a 
living Christmas tree that can be planted 
with ceremony the day after and enjoyed 
many years after. Pinon Pines ready for 
planting, 3' to 3Vi' high, $15.00; 4 Vi' to 5' 
high, $23.00. 

Other sizes available on request 
W. W. Wilmore Nurseries 
West 38th Ave. at Wadsworth 
Wheat Ridge, Colorado 


Metal Baby Pigeon 


IRRIGATION 

Herb Gundell 
Denver County Extension Agent 


ki idwinter, in our climate, is ac- 
companied by a dormant, non- 
vegetative condition in nearly all our 
garden plants. Their lifeless appear¬ 
ance, however, does not denote absence 
of the normal life processes in the 
shrubs, trees and perennials that sur¬ 
round us. 

Actually, at that season, weather 
conditions would usually interfere 
with normal plant growth anyhow, and 
so the resting state of nature is, more 
than anything else, a defense mecha¬ 
nism against winter damage. Besides, 
the dormant or resting, non-vegetative 
period brings about a reorganization 
of the growth processes within many 
plants and therefore, it is a time of 
renewal rather than a season of in¬ 
activity. 

In our mile-high climate, winter is 
not normally a season of high pre¬ 
cipitation. Certainly we must admit 
that this has varied from below normal 
to much above normal. Basically, how¬ 


ever, the winter season subjects our 
overwintering plants to drying condi-i 
tions. Actually, the only periods of; 
beneficial humidity that we normally 
experience in winter are during and j 
just after a snowfall or rain. The peri- j 
ods between storms bring high winds 
and often extremely dry weather result¬ 
ing in a more or less continuous process i 
of desiccation and dehydration in many 
of our garden subjects. 

Actually, the only plants that aref 
reasonably well protected from this ; 
deprivation and loss of moisture are the 
herbaceous perennials whose above- ! 
ground portions completely die and in j 
which only the root systems and the j 
crowns of the plants carry on from one I 
year to the next. 

When we consider winter irrigation, i 
we naturally start with our lawns. | 
Grasses are, for the most part, not very i 
deeply rooted. On the average, lawn! 
turf has roots from 4 to 8 inches deep, j 
Ironically, it is the newly developed i 


t 


316 


areas on the periphery of Denver — 
where the soil conditions are generally 
least favorable — that the root systems 
of lawn grasses are shallowest and the 
exposure to high winds and consequent 
dehydration is greatest. 

Only continuous vigilance on the 
part of the home gardener will protect 
against abnormal losses of well estab¬ 
lished lawn areas. One cannot say that 
lawn watering must be done with regu¬ 
larity; rather it must be done when the 
need exists. For the most part, in dry 
; winters, an irrigation every four to six 
weeks will do much to prevent serious 
damage to the turf grass. In winters 
when precipitation is normal or above, 
such irrigations need not be considered 
! except under especially severe condi¬ 
tions of south slopes and steep declines. 

Among evergreens, many require 
regular watering during the winter 
months. This is truer of the more sus¬ 
ceptible and more easily injured broad- 
leaves than of the conifers. Among 
those broadleaved evergreens that re¬ 
quire careful and well-tinted irrigation 
are the Euonymus, Pyracantha, Ma- 
honia and other rare shrubs. Next in 
water requirement are the spruces. 
They have, for the most part, larger 
root systems than the average broad- 
leaf evergreen shrubs, but they, too, 
are in need of occasional watering and 
will come through a winter in far better 
condition if this is administered on a 
I reasonably regular basis when the 
weather is mild and open. 

The best method of watering upright 
evergreens is with a root-watering device 
that is attachable to a garden hose. This 
device is equipped with a lance-type 
point that inserts easily into the earth 
and permits a well-balanced irrigation 
at a depth of 30 to 42 inches. 

Next in need of water are the juni¬ 
pers, followed by the pines which 
actually require the least moisture of 


all. Pines rarely get so dry in metro¬ 
politan Denver that they need to be 
watered at all during the winter months. 
However, moisture from normal rain 
or snowfall is no detriment provided 
the pines are not located in low areas 
where moisture tends to accumulate 
and form a bog. 

Deciduous shrubs and trees are not 
altogether protected from dehydration 
during the winter season either. They, 
too, will benefit from occasional water¬ 
ing, either with a garden hose and 
sprinkler or with a special root-watering 
device that is commercially available at 
many garden shops and nurseries in 
this area. 

Among the trees which require more 
than casual attention are the birches 
and willows — both trees that naturally 
grow in moist situations and do not do 
well in a dry spot at any time. When¬ 
ever a birch tree dies back at the top, 
it is an indication that moisture condi¬ 
tions have not been adequate to main¬ 
tain the tree in its best condition. Some 
of the younger birches in this area are 
very susceptible to such damage, indi¬ 
cating a lack of attention to the trees 
during the winter season. 

Perennials, too, are in need of water 
from time to time. Some are more 
shallow-rooted than others, and of 
course the deeper-rooted ones require 
watering less frequently than those that 
have very shallow and fibrous root sys¬ 
tems. It should be said, however, that 
chrysanthemums do not appreciate 
over-watering; neither do iris, peonies 
and many others. Our aim should not 
be to provide a moist condition at all 
times, but to provide some additional 
moisture whenever weather conditions 
indicate that need. 

Roses, too, will benefit greatly from 
an occasional winter watering, espe¬ 
cially in the more exposed locations of 
our region. Spring-flowering bulbs also 


will produce more and finer flowers in 
spring if the bed in which the bulbs are 
planted has adequate moisture. After 
all, a moist or wet soil is a cooler soil 
than a dry soil, and in a cooler soil the 
bulbs progress less rapidly than in a 
dry or warm soil. This explains why so 
many bulbs come up too early in loca¬ 
tions near the house, as these spots are 
frequently very dry and warm. 

Special mention should be made of 
out-door planters in which either ever¬ 
greens or other perennial plants are 
grown. Any bed that is raised above 
the normal soil level of a given area is 
many more times susceptible to dehy¬ 
dration than an area that is level with 
the ground. In other words, a planter 
is just like a flower pot set out of doors. 
It requires watering more frequently 
than a normal garden bed. All these 
planters, especially those in which 


evergreens are grown must be watered 
frequently, perhaps as often as once 
every 10 to 14 days throughout the 
winter season. Failure to do so will 
undoubtedly produce many losses, and 
will provide additional discouragement 
to the home gardener. 

Two final bits of advice: always dis¬ 
connect your garden hoses from the 
outside tap, when you have finished 
watering. Outside taps, even though 
they are considered frost-proof will not 
be protected if the garden hose is con¬ 
nected to them and many broken water f 
lines result from this carelessness. Do 
not allow garden hoses to be connected 
to the tap when temperatures are below 
freezing at night. All sprinkler systems, 
operated during the winter months, ; 
must be thoroughly and completely 
drained after each use to prevent costly 
repairs. 


Exotics of Colorado 

Helen Marsh Zeiner 

nr his Charming little European can 
A be found blooming in many Denver 
area gardens following a few warm, 
sunny days in December or January. 
The blooms may, however, appear as 
early as September or as late as Feb¬ 
ruary. 

The Christmas Rose, Helleborus 
niger, is a member of the Ranuncu- 
laceae or Buttercup family, and is really 
not a rose at all. The individual blos¬ 
soms do superficially resemble those of 
a wild rose, hence the common name. 
They are white, sometimes flushed with 
rose or purple, and there will be several 
flowers per stem. They vary in size, 
reputedly attaining a diameter of 3-5 
inches in some species. However, it is 


Christmas lose 

not probable that they will reach this 
size in Denver area gardens, but flowers 
of an inch and a half to two inches are 
common. 

Helleborus niger is an herbaceous 
perennial growing naturally in rocky 
places in Europe. It has long been a 
favorite in English gardens and prob¬ 
ably came to America via that route. 
Christmas Rose is a useful perennial 
because it prefers a partially shaded 
location and can be planted among 
shrubs. It is not too particular about 
soil and will grow in most garden soils, 
but will reach its best development in a 
soil of loam, coarse sand and humus 
well worked together. Helleborus will 
tolerate some alkalinity, but prefers a 


318 


more neutral soil. It must have good 
drainage. 

Since these plants are natives of an 
area with more rainfall and more hu¬ 
midity than Denver, they need deep 
and thorough watering. They also seem 
to respond well to frequent use of a fine 
spray of water on the leaves, com¬ 
pensating to an extent for the very dry 
air. 

The Christmas Rose does not take 
kindly to being moved and it is best 
not to disturb established plants. When 
divisions are necessary or when plant¬ 
ing nursery stock the work may be 
done in late summer, fall or spring. 
Many Denver area gardeners report 


that they prefer spring planting. It may 
take 2 or 3 years for heavy blooms, 
but the display of long-lasting creamy 
blossoms is well worth the wait. 

Plants sometimes produce seeds 
which can be planted successfully in 
the more humid east and would be 
worth trying here. The plants are also 
recommended for indoor forcing. 

Those who maintain a file of Green 
Thumb magazines can find in the Feb¬ 
ruary 1950 issue an excellent article 
on the Christmas Rose written by Miss 
Maud McCormick, whose friends re¬ 
member her as a true devotee of this 
lovely winter-blooming flower. 


Turns The Night Before Christmas 
In A Garden Shop Sue Kelly 

nly Hours Before, all was confusion, but now all was quiet and peaceful 

— rather bare (thank goodness!), but that could be remedied. (I hope that 
more of you will do your Christmas shopping early and have a better choice.) 

What better choice could one make for an avid gardener than the best 
current information on what and how? For example, “THE GREEN THUMB” 
magazine for Rocky Mountain gardeners, is available for only a $5.00 member¬ 
ship in the Denver Botanic Gardens. It will give twelve months of pleasure and 
profit — profit in many ways, believe me! Then there is the book, “HOW TO 
GROW GOOD GARDENS IN THE SUNSHINE STATES,” in which George 
Kelly condenses all local garden information into a nutshell. And how much 
pleasure can be had on a trip through the mountains or plains with M. Walter 
Pesman’s book, “MEET THE NATIVES”! So much for reading matter. 

Now let’s see what was on those bare shelves for HIM, HER and THEIRS. 

I. For HIM: — (I hope this does not sound like too much work, but rather 
something to make that work easier.) 

1. A large basket — utility size — with small things in it, e.g., twistems, knee 
pads, vine staplers, plant markers and pencils, good serviceable gloves, the best 
hand pruners available, filter masks for so many uses, packets of rootone, trans- 
plantone, winter seeds of both flowers and vegetables — to name a few things. 

2. Lopping shears for those big pruning jobs. 

3. A garden spade. 

4. Rakes — both leaf-rakes and one of those Cavex rakes, new and differ¬ 
ent and so effective. 


319 


5. Little Giant Tools for the young fry — made to their size and capacity 
— wonderful for the grown-ups, too, especially lady gardeners. 

6. A Ross Root Feeder to help make winter watering of trees and shrubs 
complete and easier. 

7. An aerator for next summer. (Perhaps it will not be needed but it is well 
to be prepared.) 

8. Gift certificates, for those who couldn’t make a choice for his gift. 

II. For HER: 

1. A basket — dainty but useful — containing such items as sharp shears, 
gloves, knee pads, tiny “pot-size” hoe and spade combinations, filter masks 
(I know the ladies do quite a bit of the spraying and dusting), a number of special 
items for flower arranging, such as needle holders in many forms, hairpin holders, 
dragon flies, clay, corsage tape, wire in several weights. The basket is useful for 
carrying things such as cut-flowers from the garden and this recalls the need for 
Petal Life that is added to the water in the container to prolong the useful life of 
cut-flowers. 

2. Small, interesting containers for flower arrangements. That word keeps 
coming up — but really it is part of good living (isn’t it?) to make our homes 
beautiful inside as well as outside. Containers — in interesting shapes, colors 
and materials, such as copper, brass, ceramics, wood and plastics. 

3. Hand tools, her very own, so that she has no excuse for getting into 
yours! 

4. A “ladies’ spade.” | 

5. Dried Material for her to use in making winter bouquets, or one already 
expertly arranged for her. 

6. The life-saving Gift Certificates for the last minute shopper. 

III. For THEIR House and Garden: I 

L Garden Hose in 50-foot lengths and good serviceable sprinklers — for 

instance, Rainbird or Rain King. Nothing could be more welcome to new home 
owners. These items make a sizable hole in the family budget just when every¬ 
thing else has fully depleted the spare cash. 

2. Hand Watering Can — gallon-size plastic, or two- or three-gallon-size 
galvanized metal — to be used exclusively for weedicides. 

3. Shrub Guards to protect those precious evergreens — a must. 

4. A Tank-type Sprayer — the really special one, Strollin Sprayer, on 
wheels — takes all the weight off and allows one to reach beyond the hose length. 

5. Holland Bulbs. These are best planted in early fall, but if the ground is 
not frozen too hard, they may be set out even after Christmas. They are fully 
appreciated from early March to late May. 

6. Amaryllis Bulbs for the house — huge, fat bulbs, either started or ready f 
for the indoor gardener to start. The most satisfying gift I can think of. Blooms 
as much as 10 or 12 inches in diameter, with four to six flowers on one flowering 
stem. They really should be high on everyone’s gift list. 

In checking my notes I find that I have overlooked mentioning several items 
of great importance in outdoor gardens — lights, statuary, bird baths, bird feeders, 
small and large frogs, turtles, ducks and chicks — to name a few. While not all 
of these appeal to all gardeners, one of them might appeal to those special garden¬ 
ing friends and Christmas comes but once a year! 


320 


Indoor plants make a home. Built-in planters or windows with proper 
exposure are good beginnings. Most house plants want good light but not direct 
sunlight. The exceptions are usually chrysanthemums, poinsettias, begonias, 
cyclamen, aphelandra, cineraria, geraniums — all cheerful and calling attention 
to themselves. Blooming oleanders, bougainvilleas, hibiscus, want sun. Gardenias, 
camelias, stephanotis all want a cool room with no direct sunlight. This now 
leaves ferns and certain foliage plants, for the darker areas of the house. Philo¬ 
dendrons are lovely, both huge varieties and small dainty ones in interesting 
containers. Palms and ferns are suitable for the new modern-treatment homes. 
All such plants are excellent Christmas gifts. 

But for those who can’t find what they want there are Gift Certificates which 
enable the giver to specify what they are to be used for. These have opened up 
a new world of possibilities for those who make gifts to gardeners — roses, 
evergreens, shrubs, annuals for summer color, rock-garden plants, an accent 
piece, wood, rocks, fertilizer, magazines and books. 

If none of these appeal, there are always the “Jonny Planters”! 


Dear Pete, 

My chair-bound garden friend needs 
an interest stimulator to boost him 
through the holiday season. What 
would you recommend for 

Zestless 

Dear Zestie, 

A real exhilarator is the giant hybrid 
Amaryllis which produces spectacular 
blossoms in white, pink, orange, even 
deep red. A single bulb will reward 
your friend with four to eight gorgeous 
flowers. 


He’ll think the world is truly his 
onion whether he plants the 10-inch 
bulb himself or examines one potted 
by the nurseryman. Bulbs should be 
planted in good garden loam with two- 
thirds of the bulb exposed. Pot diam¬ 
eter should be only three inches greater 
than the diameter of the bulb. Keep at 
a temperature between 60 to 70 de¬ 
grees, do not water until the flower bud 
is in sight and then only sparingly. 
When leaves begin to develop, water 
freely, sit back and watch it grow! 


321 


By measuring the plant’s growth 
each day Zestless can have more fun 
than Jack did with the beanstalk. The 
entire spectacle from bud to blossom 
takes about six weeks. Infrequently the 
bulb sends up a second blossom stalk. 

An added feature is that, by follow¬ 
ing directions included with the bulb, 
repeat performances may be scheduled 
for succeeding years. 

Dear Pete, 

I’ve mothered my Christmas Cactus 
for years, yet I’ve never been blessed 
with a blossom in or out of the holiday 
season. What shall I do to instill the 
idea of giving—giving blossoms, that is? 

Cactus Jill 

Dear Jill, 

Giving comes from the joy of good 
living. According to cactologist Ed 
Sherman, good living for a Christmas 
Cactus means planting in fairly rich 
porous soil, shade in the open during 
late spring and summer with frequent 
syringing and keeping the soil generally 
on the dry side. 


Brought into a sunny place with 50 
to 60 degree temperature in the autumn 
and given more frequent watering, 
Zygocactus will flower and be a delight 
for some fifteen days — not necessarily 
at Christmas time. 

Mr. Sherman cautions, “Never water 
overhead when buds are forming.” Bud 
dropping could be caused by too much 
or too little water, presence of gas or 
excessive nicotine fumes, cold drafts 
and moving plants about. One author 
even suggests too much company will 
affect the plants. So remember — do 
not disturb, keep away from drafts, 
give up smoking if necessary, and if all 
else fails, be anti-social! At Christmas 
time? 


pSTURd, 


Pl?». 


LEE CHAMBERS 

1594 SO. FOREST 
Complete Care and Maintenance 
of 

Trees, Shrubs and Evergreens 


f 

SK 6-3366 


TREE SURGEON 

DENVER 20, COLORADO 


Custom Spraying 
Fully Licensed and Insured 


MEMBER 


322 


PROPAGATING EVERGREENS 

by 

MATURE IVOOP CUTTINGS 

Carl J. C. Jorgensen, Associate Professor in Horticulture, 

Colorado State University 

^ everal Methods of propagating evergreens asexually have been devised. 
^ Commonly such methods include cuttings, grafting, budding and layerage. 
Where the home owner desires to have one or two plants, probably layerage 
would be the answer for low growing or spreading varieties. In such cases the 
procedure is simply to take one of the lower side branches and bury a portion of 
the stem close to the crown, leaving the tip portion of that branch exposed. If 
the buried section is nicked with a knife in two or three places, rooting is aided. 
After two or three seasons, the layered portion will have a well developed root 
system and can then be severed from the mother plant and placed in a new location. 

Commercially, many of the broadleaf and narrowleaf evergreens can be 
propagated by cuttings of mature wood taken in fall or early winter. While many 
species of evergreens can easily be grown from seed, these seedlings may not 
have the desirable characteristics of the parent as to shape, size, color and foliage 
characteristics. The choice varieties thus have to be propagated by graftage or 
by cuttings. Unfortunately many of our upright junipers, pines and spruces will 
not readily propagate by cuttings and are therefore produced by grafting. This 
does leave a number of desirable species that do root well from cuttings. Among 
these we could mention all forms of arborvitae and yew and practically all 
spreading forms of juniper. A few of the upright junipers should be also included. 

Evergreen cuttings are slower to root than those of deciduous plants, some 
taking six to eight months. Under our system, we expect the majority of the 
cuttings to root in eight to twelve weeks. Any that have not rooted in that length 
of time are discarded. 

We take fairly large stem cuttings in November or December. By this time 
the wood is in good condition, that is, well ripened. We trim off the newest tip 
growth and try to leave some older hardened wood at the base of the cutting. 
Since we want the leaves to continue to manufacture food during rooting, we try 
to retain as much leaf surface as possible. Obviously we have to remove leaves 
(needles) from a two inch portion of the lower stem to be inserted in the rooting 
media. After trimming we have a cutting six to eight inches long. One precaution 
should be mentioned. We make our cuttings on a day when the temperature is 
above freezing. In other words, we never cut or trim cuttings while frozen. 

One further procedure is to wound the basal portion of the trimmed cutting. 
This we accomplish by lengthwise slitting of the bark for a distance of one to 
one and one-half inches from the basal end. A single-edged razor blade makes a 
fairly efficient tool for this purpose. The slit should just be deep enough to cut 
through the bark. Make two or three of these cuts around the stem depending 
on the size. 


323 


A sand or sand-peat medium works fairly well. However, in recent years 
we have developed a different procedure here at Colorado State University 
which not only speeds up the rooting but also gives us a high percentage of rooted 
plants. Our propagating bench is furnished with bottom heat by means of steam 
pipes about 18 inches below the bench. The entire space below the bench is 
enclosed with transite. This retains and evens out the steam heat. The heat is 
thermostatically controlled. A thermocouple is placed in the medium about an 
inch from the bottom and we maintain a temperature in the medium of 75° to 
80°. The temperature in our propagating house is approximately 65° to 70°. 
The bench is filled with Perlite (a white expanded mica product) to a depth of 
six inches. We have an overhead automatic mist system placed three feet above 
the bench. It consists of one-eighth inch copper tubing with spray heads at 18- 
inch intervals covering the bench area. This is controlled by a clock timer which 
allows us to vary both the length of time of misting and also the interval between 
mistings. We feel a two second misting every minute is about right under our 
conditions in the propagating house, which is one section of our greenhouse range. 

Before sticking the cuttings we treat the basal portion with Rootone which 
is a talc preparation containing naphthalene acetic acid. We simply dip the cuttings 
in the powder and shake off the excess. We make furrows in the moist Perlite 
and insert the cuttings to a depth of the trimmed stem which is approximately 
two inches. Also we make sure that each cutting is separate and touches no other 
cutting. This precaution eliminates browning and rotting of the leaves. No 
shading is necessary with the intermittent overhead mist. 

This system has resulted in excellent percentages of rooted cuttings of the 


following: 

Juniper us chinensis glauca hetzi .Hetz Blue Juniper 

J. chinensis pfitzeriana ..Pfitzer Juniper 

J. chinensis pfitzeriana “Blue” .Blue Pfitzer 

J. chinensis pfitzeriana compacta .Compact Pfitzer 

J. chinensis “Sargenti” .Sargents Juniper 

J. horizontalis “Bar Harbor” .Bar Harbor Juniper 

J. horizontalis “Douglasii” . Waukegan Juniper 

J. horizontalis plumosa .Andorra Juniper 

/. procumbens .Several varieties 

J. sabina .Savin Juniper 

J. sabina tamariscifolia .Tamarix Juniper 

J. squamata “Meyeri” .Meyer Juniper 

Taxus cuspidata .Japanese Yew 

Thuja occidentalis .American Arborvitae 


We have also had limited success with our own Picea pungens, Colorado 
Spruce, with this method. Cuttings should be taken in late winter. 

After the majority of cuttings of a variety have rooted, we pot in three inch 
pots and carry in the greenhouse until spring when we can transplant these estab¬ 
lished plants directly to gallon cans. These are placed in our outdoor container 
area for continued growth. 


324 


Mrs. John Scott 


THE 

SSSi* CHRISTMAS 

TREE 

TP he Christmas Tree book proclaims to be “an evergreen garland filled with 
* history, folklore, symbolism, traditions, legends and stories.” It is, and more, 
too. 


Glancing through the contents, and selecting a few chapters at random, 
here’s “Christmas Through the Ages.” This is the warp and woof of paganism 
and Christianity that explains many of our rugged traditions. “Out of Paradise” 
is about a play, presented during advent, concerning the sin of our first parents, 
Adam and Eve. These medieval thespians had one prop on stage, a fir tree hung 
with apples. This evergreen Paradise tree symbolized immortality and outlived 
its actors. Wafers (then cookies) were added to the Paradise tree. Roses, 
emblem of beauty and love, were next, and were usually made of paper or cloth. 
By 1740, “The Christmas tree in Germany” chapter tells of “. . . trees lighted and 
covered with gilt nuts, sheep, dolls, dishes, fruit, confectionery and figures of the 
Christ Child.” 

“The Christmas Tree Takes Root in America” and by 1850 it was the 
height of fashion for the festive season. A year later, a far-sighted New Yorker 
launched the Christmas Tree trade. There are more chapters on the evolution of 
the tree, from “. . . large boughs placed against the wall or suspended from the 
ceiling . . .” to “live trees of various sizes in pots.” Trees were often grown in 
tubs or containers from year to year. 

But the book presents up-to-date ideas for Christmas trees, too. Besides 
many variations of espaliered and topiary trees, there are trees contrived of con¬ 
tainers of flower pots, oak leaves, pyramidal wooden frames, ivy leaves, etc. The 
Kissing ball takes on tree decor, too. 

Another chapter is filled with short new and old “Stories and Legends of the 
Tree.” 

There are two pages of “Children’s Books About the Christmas Tree” with 
“A selected list of Christmas tree stories, plays, poems and carols for the pleasure 
of children and all who are young at heart.” 

The bibliography lists approximately a hundred references, from which 
many related books could be read or purchased. 

The book itself is Christmas Red and most attractively illustrated with over 
two hundred sketches on the margins. There are also black-and-white photo¬ 
graphs, color pages and reproductions of old paintings. 

Daniel J. Foley is the author and he’s no Johnny-come-recently to the 
writing business. For six years he was editor of Horticulture, America’s oldest 
garden magazine. This is his sixth book published. After reading The Christmas 
Tree, I had the satisfied feeling that this is the tree book to end tree books. 

It came out just before Christmas last year, costs $3.50. Published by 
Chilton Company, Philadelphia 39, Pa. Call your local book store. Many have 
stocked The Christmas Tree. 


325 


INDEX, 1961 


ADMINISTRATION 

Committees For 1961, Jan.-Feb., P. 9-10 
Denver Botanic Gardens Trustees, terms 61- 
62-63, Jan.-Feb., P. 3 

Guest Editorial, Everett C. Long, Jan.-Feb., 
P. 6 

Letter From Mayor Batterton, Jan.-Feb., P. 5 
Progress and Growth, Lawrence A. Long, 
Jan.-Feb., P. 4 

ANNUALS 

Preparing For Your Annual Flower Bed, 
James R. Feucht, March, P. 58-61 

AWARDS 

S. R. DeBoer, Distinguished Service, April, 
P. 85 

Harry M. Swift, Horticultural Achievement, 
April, P. 85 

BIOGRAPHIES 

Liberty Hyde Bailey, Jan.-Feb., P. 39-40 
John S. Barrows, Robert E. More, Jan.-Feb., 
P. 87-88 

Botanizing with Edwin James, Louisa Ward 
Arps, July, P. 203-207 
Miss Durfee Resigns, A. C. Hildreth, Oct.- 
Nov., P. 286-287 

Emma Armstrong Ervin, Katharine B. Crisp, 
Aug.-Sept., P. 231-233 
Dr. Feucht to Resign, Lawrence A. Long, 
June, P. 164-165 
Helen K. Fowler, Jan.-Feb., P. 12 
Honoring Burton O. Longyear, M. Walter 
Pesman, May, P. 125-126 
The W. W. Wilmore Nurseries, Colorado’s 
Oldest, June, P. 186-187 

BOOK REVIEWS 

Flower Chronicles, Buckner Hollingsworth, 
April, P. 111 

The Lawn Book, Robert W. Schery, April, 
P. Ill 

New and Old Books on Gardening, Jan.- 
Feb.,?. 35-36 

Therapy Through Horticulture, Donald P. 
Watson and Alice W. Burlingame, May, 
P. 153-154 

BOTANIC GARDENS 

Arnold Arboretum, Don Wyman, Dec. P. 
309-313 

Brooklyn Botanic Garden, George S. Avery, 
Jr., June, P. 177-180 

Longwood Gardens, Violet K. Thomas, July, 
P.209-212 

Los Angeles State & County Arboretum, 
Part I, Dr. William S. Stewart, Aug.-Sept., 
P.251-256 


Los Angeles State & County Arboretum, 
Part II, Dr. William S. Stewart, Oct.-Nov., 
P. 276-278 

Missouri Botanical Garden, Part I, Frits 
Warmolt Went, April, P. 98-100 
Missouri Botanical Garden, Part II, Frits 
Warmolt Went, May, P. 144-146 

BULBS 

Autumn-Flowering Colchicum, Jan.-Feb., P. 
30 

Bulbs in the Garden, Fred Vetting, Oct.- 
Nov., P. 271-272 
Holland Bulbs, May, P. 137-141 

CHRISTMAS 

Cut Your Own Christmas Trees, T. C. Pen¬ 
der, Dec., P. 303-305 
Novelties for Noel, Dec., P. 314-316 
’Twas the Night Before Christmas in a Gar¬ 
den Shop, Sue Kelly, Dec., P. 319-321 
The Christmas Tree, Mrs. John Scott, Dec., 
P. 325 

CULTURAL PRACTICES 

You Probably Have a Chalk-Garden, M. 

Walter Pesman, July, P. 218 
Gardening with Colorado Wildings, III, 
Ruth Ashton Nelson, Jan.-Feb., P. 13-14 
Gardening with Colorado Wildings, IV, 
Ruth Ashton Nelson, March, P. 49-50 
Gardening with Colorado Wildings, V, Ruth 
Ashton Nelson, July, P. 199-200 
Gardening with Colorado Wildings, VI, Ruth 
Ashton Nelson, Aug.-Sept., P. 242-244 
Giving Plants the “Bloom’s Rush,” Mrs. 

John Scott, March, P. 71-73 
Here Is How To Prune Grape Vines, Moras 
L. Shubert, Jan.-Feb., P. 23-24 
Long Nights and Phytochrome, M. Walter 
Pesman, Jan.-Feb., P. 31 
Thought While Shoveling Snow, M. Walter 
Pesman, Jan.-Feb., P. 24 
Winter Gardening, Herbert C. Gundell, Jan.- 
Feb., P. 25-27 

Winter Irrigation, Herbert C. Gundell, Dec., 
P. 316-318 

EDUCATION PROGRAMS, Denver Botanic Gardens 
What is Your Botanic Gardens Doing? July, 
P.221-222 

Dedication of Children’s Shelter, Vella Con¬ 
rad, Jan.-Feb., P. 29-30 
Fiesta and Plant Auction, May, P. 122 
Fiesta— Plant Auction, July, P. 198 
Gardner-Florist Apprentice Training Pro¬ 
gram, March, P. 63 

Generous Gift to Botanic Gardens, Kathryn 
Kalmbach, Aug.-Sept., P. 256-257 


326 


INDEX, 1961 


1960 Petunia Trials, A. C. Hildreth, April, 
P. 104-106 

Report on Terrace and Garden Tour, Mrs. 

J. K. Weckbaugh, Aug.-Sept., P. 244 
Terrace and Garden Tour, June, P. 163 

FLOWERS 

Jewels of Opar (Talinum paniculatum), 
Jan.-Feb., P. 28 

GARDEN CLUBS 

Composting, Mrs. John Scott, Jan.-Feb., P. 

32-34; March, P. 66-68 
Scoops by Scott, Mrs. John Scott, April, P. 
108-110; May, P. 147-148; June, P. 183- 
184; July, P. 219-220; Aug.-Sept., P. 258 

HORTICULTURE 

Next 100 Years in Ornamental Horticulture, 
George Beach, Oct.-Nov., P. 282-286 

HORTICULTURAL DISPLAYS 
Beauty By The Bankful, Dabney Otis Col¬ 
lins, June, P. 181-182 

Colorado Garden and Competitive Flower 
Show, May, P. 149-151 
The 1961 Denver Botanic Gardens Bulb 
Display, June, P. 189-190 
Denver Rose Show Draws 7,200, Aug.-Sept., 
P. 236-237 

Orchids for Everyone, Denver Orchid So¬ 
ciety, Jan.-Feb., P. 34-35 
Winners of the Competitive Flower Show, 
May, P. 135-136 

The 1961 Orchid Show, Dec., P. 308 
HOUSE PLANTS 

Cacti Can Pull Themselves Into The Ground, 
Moras L. Shubert, March, P. 57 
Cacti and Succulents Have Personality Plus, 
Charlotte A. Barbour, March, P. 76-77 
Post Holiday Care for House Plants, Helen 
Marsh Zeiner, Jan.-Feb., P. 19-20 

LANDSCAPE DESIGN 

Art of Bonsai, Frances Morrison, Oct.-Nov., 
P. 279-280 

The Barnum Parkway, S. R. DeBoer, Aug.- 
Sept., P. 245-247 

Building a Rock Garden, James R. Feucht, 
July, P. 213-217 

Designing the Fall Garden, M. Walter Pes- 
man, Oct.-Nov., P. 287-288 
Fall Color in the City, Frances Novitt, Oct.- 
Nov., P. 269-270 

If It’s Privacy You Want, M. Walter Pesman, 
Jan.-Feb., P.21-23 

Living Screens For The Valley Highway, 
April, P. 86 


Making the Plains Liveable, Chris G. Moritz, 
June, P. 169-172 

This Is The Time To Make Your Garden 
Plan, Pesman & Barbour, Jan.-Feb., P. 
17-18 

LAWNS 

Care and Maintenance of Lawns, Charles M. 

Drage and George Beach, April, P. 89-91 
Sprinkler System For Your Lawn, Homer 
Fanning, May, P. 133-135 
What About Lawn Renovation? April, P. 112 

MEETINGS AND REPORTS 

American Society of Landscape Architects to 
Meet July 10-12, June, P. 164 
The Annual Dinner (Feb. 12, 1961)—A 
Gala Affair, March, P. 78 
Botanic Gardens Board of Trustees Election, 
May, P. 121 

Colorado Nurserymen’s Association, Ken 
Wilmore, Jan.-Feb., P. 8 
Denver Tree Men’s Association (Feb. 14, 
1961), April, P. 85 

Horticulture Association Assets Transferred, 
Fred R. Johnson, May, P. 123-124 
Nation’s Landscape Architects Meet in Colo¬ 
rado, Aug.-Sept., P. 249 
They Got Together, Fred R. Johnson, Jan.- 
Feb., P. 11 
NATURE 

Feeding Hummingbirds, Donald M. Thatch¬ 
er, July, P. 223 

How It All Began, Kathryn Kalmbach, Oct.- 
Nov., P. 273-274 

Notes and Notices, April, P. 85-86; May, 
P. 121-122; June, P. 162; July, P. 197-198; 
Aug.-Sept., P. 228-229; Oct.-Nov., P. 266; 
Dec., P. 302 

Seasonal Suggestions, Pat Gallavan, Aug.- 
Sept., P. 241 
PARKS 

Great Plains National Monument in Eastern 
Colorado, J. V. K. Wagar, Oct.-Nov., P. 
267-268 

Martin Schafer (1891-1961), Ed. Wallace, 
Aug.-Sept., P. 238 

State Parks Director H. Lathrop Dies, Ar¬ 
nold E. Perretin, Aug.-Sept., P. 235 

PESTS 

Are You Ready For The “Bugs”?, Gordon 
T. Mickle, March, P. 74-76 
Read Those Pesticide Labels, Robert I. Sul¬ 
livan, Aug.-Sept., P. 239-241 

PLANT MATERIAL 

A Baker’s Dozen of Glamorous Glads, 
Everett C. Long, March, P. 62-63 


327 


INDEX, 1961 


Dried Materials and How To Use Them, 
Ruth Lewin, Oct.-Nov., P. 287-291 
Exotic Plants — What Are They?, Helen 
Marsh Zeiner, April, P. 102-103 
Exotics of Colorado, Christmas Rose, Helen 
Marsh Zeiner, Dec., P. 318-319 
Exotics of Colorado, Evergreen, James R. 

Feucht, May, P. 142-143 
Exotics of Colorado, The Oaks, Helen Marsh 
Zeiner, Oct.-Nov., P. 278 
Exotics of Colorado, Regal Lily, Helen 
Marsh Zeiner, July, P. 208 
Exotics of Colorado, Tulip Tree, Helen 
Marsh Zeiner, June, P. 173-174 
Harry Swift and Western Native Plants, 
Ruth Ashton Nelson, April, P. 95-97 
Late Winter Treat, Salsify, Kathryn Kalm- 
bach, April, P. 107 

Let’s Go Native, Wm. H. Lucking, Oct.-Nov., 
P. 275 

Plant Portraits, Shrubalthea, Dogwood, 
George W. Kelly, Aug.-Sept., P. 234 
Plant Profiles, George W. Kelly, Amorphas, 
March, P. 64; Viburnums, March, P. 65; 
Yellowhorn, March, P. 65; Cutleaf Sumac, 
April, P. 93; Desmodium, April, P. 93; 
Wahoo Euonymus, April, P. 94 
Using Yuccas and Cacti in Your Landscape, 
Julia H. Andrews, Oct.-Nov., P. 281-282 

PLANT PROGAGATION 

Preparing For Your Annual Flower Bed, 
James R. Feucht, March, P. 58-61 
Hybrid Petunia Seed Production, Mike 
Ulaski, Jan.-Feb., P. 40 
Propagating Evergreens by Mature Wood 
Cuttings, Carl J. C. Jorgensen, Dec., P. 
323-324 


QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS 

Pete Ponders, Berenice B. Petersen, Jan.- 
Feb., P. 15-16; April, P. 92; May, P. 
127-128; June, P. 165-166; July, P. 201- 
202; Aug.-Sept., P. 248-249; Oct.-Nov., 
P. 292-293; Dec., P. 321-322 

What’s This?, Berenice B. Petersen, March, 
P.51 

ROSES 

1962 All-America Rose Selections, June, P. 
175-176 

Exhibiting of Roses, Clyde E. Learned, May, 
P. 129-132 

Good Grooming of Roses, Vella Hood Con¬ 
rad, June, P. 167-168 

Rose Guide, 1961, May, P. 121 

Roses For The Rocky Mountain Region, 
Clyde E. Learned, March, P. 52-56 

SHRUBS 

Now Is The Time To Prune Early-Flowering 
Shrubs, Moras L. Shubert, June, P. 185 

TREES 

Briefing For Spring Pruning, Lee Chambers, 
March, P. 69-70 

Cut Your Own Christmas Tree, T. C. Pen¬ 
der, Dec., P. 303-305 

Give Fertilizer To Your Shade Trees, Na¬ 
tional Arborist Association, May, P. 152 

More Thoughts on Pruning, April, P. 101 

Please Repeat That Question, Lee Chambers, 
Dec. 305-307 

Tulip Trees in Denver, July, P. 197 

The Upward Look in Tree Planting, Earl J. 
Sinnamon, Jan.-Feb., P. 12 


MEMBER 

‘Schulho^oridt .Service 


vP? 

Season's Greetings 


HArrison 4-6112 


MARSHALL 

NURSERIES 

Better Built Trees — Landscaping with Personality 

5825 W. 16th Avenue 

- 

BEImont 7-0445 


328 


YOU ARE INVITED 

OF 

DENVER BOTANIC GARDENS 
909 York St., Denver 6, Colo. 

! hereby apply for membership in the Denver Botanic Gardens □ 

' wish my membership in the Denver Botanic Gardens extended □ 

Enclosed is $.for my annual dues. 

Class of Membership desired: (check one) 

□ Regular .$ 5.00 □ Supporting.$25.00 

□ Participating .$10.00 □ Contributing .$50.00 

□ Sustaining .$100.00 


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ILIFF GARDEN NURSERY 


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LAMEDA 


Denver's Garden Center 

2645 W. Alameda Ave. 


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Write or call for 
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4