Monroe County Master Gardener Association

Do you know this flower? Jennie sent this in last week. I missed last Friday…but can you identify?

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Naida thought these maybe great opportunities to get some education credits. If you can not attend the live Zoom, they will be recorded later:

Emerald Ash Borer University (EABU) – Upcoming Spring Sessions

Authors Amy Stone

Published on March 11, 2021

Changing EAB rules, oak wilt, invasive species management, and more! This spring’s EABU webinar series will cover a wide range of topics and see the start of a new series of 30-min All You Need to Know videos! Join us Thursdays at 11:00 AM ET starting March 18th. Details below!  

All webinars will be recorded. You can sign up to watch the live webinars or be notified when the recordings are posted by clicking on the links below for each of the sessions. Please feel free to share this announcement with anyone you think might be interested! All sessions are virtual and brought to you at no cost, as a result of continued support from the USDA Forest Service. 

CEUs will be available (CCH, ISA, SAF…) for the live webinar! Contact barne175@purdue.edu for more details. 

Registration for all talks: http://www.emeraldashborer.info/eabu.php 

Spring 2021 EABU Speaker List 

Title: Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) Deregulation and Continuation of APHIS EAB Biological Control Program 

Speaker: Herb Bolton, National Policy Manager for Emerald Ash Borer, APHIS 

Date: March 18th, 11:00 AM ET 

Registration: https://msu.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_PJ84xj44Q-GR09LEjenijQ 

Abstract: This webinar will cover the recent federal domestic deregulation of emerald ash borer (EAB). Herb Bolton will discuss what regulatory actions the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) has ended since deregulation, and the continuation of the APHIS EAB program for biological control, EAB IPM and biological control research, and communication and outreach to the public on firewood. Ben Slager will give an overview of the APHIS EAB biological control program, the status of the program nationally, and how states and other partners can get involved in the release and recovery of the EAB parasitoids. 

Title: The economics of area-wide ash surveillance, treatment, and removal strategies to slow the spread of emerald ash borer in urban forests 

Speaker: Robert G. Haight, USDA Forest Service, Northern Research Station, St. Paul, MN 

Date: April 1st, 11:00 AM ET 

Registration: https://msu.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_zwjPZKMXSPSS6VkH6PC9zQ 

Abstract: The emerald ash borer (EAB) is one of the most economically and environmentally damaging invasive species ever to reach the United States.  Economic damage of EAB is most severe in cities that lose abundant high-value ash trees growing along streets and in yards. Pest management and economic models suggest that an area-wide approach across all ownerships, including surveillance for early detection, treatment of ash trees with systemic insecticides, and removal of infested ash trees, yields the greatest benefits at the lowest costs. In this talk, Bob Haight will present research on the economics of area-wide strategies in Minneapolis/Saint Paul metropolitan region, the city of Winnipeg, Manitoba, and the state of New Jersey.  The key findings for resource managers are:

1. Surveillance for early detection of infested trees pays off.  Waiting to apply surveillance and management risks the buildup of the EAB population causing more damage and economic loss. 
2. Once surveillance identifies infested trees, cost-effective actions include treating newly infested trees and removing highly infested trees.  If the budget is limited, treating newly infested trees is the priority.    
3. For risk averse managers who want to minimize the risk of overwhelming ash mortality, the cost-effective strategy is to monitor and remove ash trees in the vicinity of infestations.   
4. Cooperation among city governments and private landowners can increase benefits for all.   

 
Title: MTE Oak Wilt Management and Control
Speaker: Tommy Stueck III, Forest Health Forester, Menominee Tribal Enterprises
Date: April 8th, 11:00 AM ET
Registration: https://msu.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_jPkVS9tmSnmko9ZEdhNt1A
Abstract: Oak wilt is a deadly disease of oaks found throughout the Midwest and into the South. The speaker will cover: Northern Pin Oak Management vs Northern Red Oak Management, Surveying Techniques, Pocket Marking Technique, Oak Wilt ID, Bruhn’s Root Graft Model, Types of Treatments, and Success Rates. 

Title: Detecting and Monitoring Invasive and Non-Native Species from NEON Pitfall Traps
Speaker: Michael D. Weiser, University of Oklahoma   
Date: April 22nd, 11:00 AM ET
Registration: https://msu.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_xEFAr6N0TQilRa5NToHDmQ 
Abstract: NEON (the National Ecological Observatory Network) uses pitfall traps to collect ground beetles (Carabidae) at 47 sites across the continental USA, Hawaii, Alaska, and Puerto Rico.  NEON technicians remove these beetles and retain all other pitfall organisms as “Invertebrate Bycatch.”  Using a combination of next-generation metagenomic sequencing and high-resolution digital imaging we have developed processes to non-destructively sample and identify taxa from the ethanol storage media.  We are able to use these data to detect and monitor range expansions in some non-native species.
 
Title: Gypsy moth: Everything you need to know in half an hour
Speaker: Cliff Sadof, Elizabeth Barnes of Purdue University, Department of Entomology, and Carrie Tauscher of Indiana Department of Natural Resources, Division of Forestry
Date: April 28th, 11:00 AM ET
Registration:  https://msu.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_EjBdXKugQWOZil8Ws23U5A
Abstract: When does gypsy moth kill trees? When don’t you have to worry? Learn the latest in key information about gypsy moth including: management, current distribution, preventing spread, basic biology, host-plant identification, and more!
 

Title: Spotted lanternfly: Everything you need to know in half an hour
Speaker: Cliff Sadof, Elizabeth Barnes of Purdue University, Department of Entomology, and Carrie Tauscher of Indiana Department of Natural Resources, Division of Forestry
Date: April 29th, 11:00 AM ET
Registration: https://msu.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_Xa1oJU34QkSl3TNr-cmQOg
Abstract: Spotted lanternfly is a destructive pest that impacts over 70 species of plants. Learn the latest information about this pest including: current distribution, management, monitoring, basic biology, host-plant identification, and more!  
 

Title: Emerald ash borer: Everything you need to know in half an hour
Speaker: Cliff Sadof, Elizabeth Barnes of Purdue University, Department of Entomology, and Carrie Tauscher of Indiana Department of Natural Resources, Division of Forestry
Date: May 5th, 11:00 AM ET
Registration: Coming soon 
Abstract: Emerald ash borer is widespread across the Midwest but ash trees can be protected from it. Once those trees die, they become extremely dangerous. Learn the latest information on: management, managing EAB-killed trees, biocontrol programs, basic biology, host-plant identification, and more! 
 

Title: Asian longhorned beetle: Everything you need to know in half an hour
Speaker: Cliff Sadof, Elizabeth Barnes of Purdue University, Department of Entomology, and Carrie Tauscher of Indiana Department of Natural Resources, Division of Forestry
Date: May 6th, 11:00 AM ET
Registration: Coming soon
Abstract: Asian longhorned beetle is a death sentence to the trees it infests. Learn the latest on: current distribution, monitoring, basic biology, host-plant identification, and more!
 

Title: Thousand cankers disease: Everything you need to know in half an hour
Speaker: Cliff Sadof, Elizabeth Barnes of Purdue University, Department of Entomology, and Carrie Tauscher of Indiana Department of Natural Resources, Division of Forestry
Date: May 12th, 11:00 AM ET 
Registration: Coming soon 
Abstract: Should you be concerned about this disease of walnut trees? Learn the latest about thousand cankers disease including: distribution, management, monitoring, basic biology, host-plant identification, and more! 
 

Title: Hemlock woolly adelgid: Everything you need to know in half an hour 
Speaker: Cliff Sadof, Elizabeth Barnes of Purdue University, Department of Entomology, and Carrie Tauscher of Indiana Department of Natural Resources, Division of Forestry 
Date: May 13th, 11:00 AM ET
Registration: Coming soon 
Abstract: Hemlock woolly adelgid (HWA) is a deadly pest of hemlock trees. Learn the latest about HWA: current distribution, biocontrol programs, management, monitoring, basic biology, host-plant identification, and more! 
 

More Information

Regional Emerald Ash Borer Website

http://www.emeraldashborer.info/

Word of the Week – Growing Degree Days (GDD)

Authors Amy Stone

Published on March 10, 2021

Growing Degree Days (GDD) are a measurement of the growth and development of plants and insects during the growing season. Development does not occur at this time unless the temperature is above a minimum threshold value, or what is also referred to as the base temperature. This base temperature can vary for different organisms and is determined through research and experimentation.

The actual temperature experienced by an organism is influenced by several factors and these factors will ultimately affect that organisms growth and development. We can probably all agree that depending on the weather, an organism’s temperature may be a few degrees more or less than that recorded. For example, an organism in direct sunlight will likely experience higher temperatures, than those in full shade, and of course somewhere in the middle if the organism is located in dabbled shade, or both sun and shade at some point throughout the day. What is comes down to is the actual location can result in those temperature differences. 

Fertility and nutrient levels in the soil can also affect the growth rate of insects and plants. The presence of weeds and precipitation may indirectly influence development as well. Due to these factors and some other scientific considerations, a base temperature of 50 degrees Fahrenheit is considered acceptable for all plants and insects, and what is used on the Ohio website.

GDD is a tool that should be in each green industry professional’s “tool-box”, and can be beneficial for consumers too. In Ohio, we are very lucky to have a GDD website that was developed as a result of work that Daniel Herms, Denise Ellsworth, Ashley Kulhanek and other contributors including Ohio Master Gardener Volunteers over the years. Check out the website for more information: https://www.oardc.ohio-state.edu/gdd/

The website uses GDD that ultimately provides a biological calendar that ‘marries’ a list of plants at their first and full bloom, and insect activity. This calendar is a sequence of events that includes both plants and insects and ties to each organisms to the GDD. 

It is important to say that while the actual number associated with GDD is based on weather stations across Ohio, there can be some differences based on microclimates, but the sequence of activity is always in the same order. As you use GDD, it is always recommended to get outdoors and compare what the website is telling you what should be happening, and what you are seeing. For example, the first plant on the Ohio list is first bloom of silver maple at  34 GDD. Check out the website, type in your Ohio zip code, see what the website says your GDD is, and then head out to the field and make the seasonal observations that is included in the list. Are you seeing silver maples blooming in your area?      

More Information

Growing Degree Days in Ohio

https://www.oardc.ohio-state.edu/gdd/

OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY EXTENSION

Where trade names are used, no discrimination is intended and no endorsement by Ohio State University Extension is implied. Although every attempt is made to produce information that is complete, timely, and accurate, the pesticide user bears responsibility of consulting the pesticide label and adhering to those directions.

Ohio State University Extension embraces human diversity and is committed to ensuring that all research and related educational programs are available to clientele on a nondiscriminatory basis without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, or veteran status. This statement is in accordance with United States Civil Rights Laws and the USDA.

CFAES provides research and related educational programs to clientele on a nondiscriminatory basis. For more information: [ http://go.osu.edu/cfaesdiversity ]. 

Any materials in this newsletter may be reproduced for educational purposes providing the source is credited.

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Click link below for more information:

Event Summary for Michigan State University Hidden Lake Gardens 2021 Bulb Show | ANR Events Management System (msu.edu)

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Gail sent us this article she wrote along with these stunning photos.

COVID 2020; What a year!!!   I am still trying to pick up the pieces, coming across some information I had intended to share with you. Today as good a day as any–
Off we go to the Toledo Museum of Art to see; An “immersive” exhibit by Yayoi Kusamaof Shinjukyu, Tokyo. Currently, 90 yrs. old, her celebrated career has spanned 7 decades; which began as a child with hallucinations transformed into artistic manifestations. 
“Fireflies on the Water”- (150 LED lights)
The title alone sparked my interest.  Fireflies–what’s not to love!!! So I set my sights on finding the day to go and BAMM Covid hit. Would I ever see this very unusual exhibit??

Finally, YES-she was allowing the Museum to resume the display and I did not hesitate to call and get my assigned time……………
and I wasn’t disappointed!!!!!

This exhibit was very unique to anything I have ever experienced.I am not an art person but I love trying something different.  It speaks to my soul and this folks was different. entering into the room — alone-no one else in there with me. I would have 60 seconds to immerse myself into the exhibit& then I would have to leave…………. I was given explicit instructions to carefully walk onto the platform(edges were visible) and then stand still-do not reach out with my hands.  Folks–all I can say is    WOW!!!!  Follow along with me as I experienced fireflies like I have never seen………

The feeling of just standing there–was bazaar. I am not sure I can explain it in words……

 see me??    I am in—–I am a part of the exhibit!!!! 

This was just really freaky!!!

This statement was taken directly from the article in the Toledo City Paper—-I still have it if you want to read the full article.

Have you figured out just how this display worked????
60 seconds wasn’t long enough.  I was clicking pictures, my senses exploding with confusion; my emotions
begin to well up, tugging at the deepest pits of my soul. Suddenly the doors opened and I was asked to leave the exhibit…………HOLY COW-HOW DO I EXPLAIN THIS?? Do I make another visit……..?? I decided not to, and this is why……….

I would say-I believe I was fortunate and experiencedfully the intent behind Ms. Kusama’s exhibit.
Thank you for sharing your talents with the world !!!!

Let me close this story with a couple extra pics from the art museum …..

the one below is something anyone of us could create-really Hope you enjoyed it.  g

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Gail sent us a new post:

Happy Lunar New Year!!!!  The year of the Ox. I discovered my Chinese birth sign is the Water Dragon. To celebrate I am sharing a post on: What do you want for Christmas Mom?
I responded with How about an Amaryllis……fully expecting a beautiful bloom to brighten the day-but…

to my surprise, not one flower in sight as gifts were placed under the tree. There was a big box with my name on it???   Want to help me open my gift…….????   HINT-see above.

So the big box under the tree with my name on it– held 6 boxesof Amaryllis bulbs.   3 of each color.

To be honest, I have never forced a bulb. So I thought maybe there were others who also lacked in this experience.  Follow alongas I navigate the process. Opened the box, taking everything out. 

Finding a bulb, rather large.

The growing medium in the shape of a disc, about 1/2 inch thick.

Following the directions, I placed the disc into the pot.

Added Water:

Fluffed with fork.

making a hole for the bulb

Taking the bulb I placed it down into the pot.

covering up to the base of the green leafy portion with the
growing medium.

6 bulbs later

Watering once a week and keeping near a light source (window)which had a heat vent in front of I waited and watched. 

It didn’t take long, the box said 8-10 wks but mine closer to 14 days-normal plant time is Nov. with bloom time @ Christmas. SoI was doing it later & some of the bulbs had matured in the box

the first to bloom was a brilliant scarlett red color

one was white with a pink hue

one was a dark pink hue (not pictured on the box)
this one did the best–hosting double stalk with a cluster of 5blooms on each.

Here are the three of them together:

I gave a dark red one away; 2- produced no blooms, only leaves (could return).  After blooming, allow dying back. In May plant the bulbs in the garden (won’t the squirrels love these)& fertilize. In September lift the bulbs, cut back the foliage and store them in a cool dry place for 2 months, and then repeat the process again for another season of enjoyment. I found it a fun project, would be great to do with children-would suggest everyone tries it at least once…..PS  Caution: Children-no matter what their age, may not listen,
so use care when asking for that Christmas gift…..gk

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.The Toledo Zoo is once again hosting The Orchid Show on weekends in February. I did not see any lectures, but they are offering a few workshops to check it out   just go to the official Toledo zoo & aquarium site………….gail

Here is a link for additional information: https://www.toledozoo.org/orchidshow

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Gail K. Sent in the information for pre-order of trees.

• WWW.MonroeCD.orgMonroe Conservation District bE-Informed
  January 20212021 Conservation Plants catalog 2021treesale.pdf (monroecd.org) Spring Tree Sale 
  pre-order forms now available. Each spring the Conservation District sells a variety of trees, shrubs, wildflowers and prairie grasses which are intended for conservation uses, such as:
  • Reforestation
  • Soil erosion control
  • Windbreaks and screens
  • Wildlife habitat improvements
  • Landscaping naturalizing
  • Pollination                                      Tips for Enjoying Winter Wildlife in your Backyard Wildlife Wildlife :Wildlife need four things for survival, food, water, shelter and space, all of which we can help supply them. These are needed year-round, especially in the stressful winter months. Plantings around the yard can provide you with windbreaks, aesthetics, food and privacy, as well as wildlife. Choose the right plants for the desired purpose and keep natives in mind for best results. Densely leaved and branched trees or shrubs provide the best cover. A variety of nut and berry plants that produce throughout the season are beneficial to wildlife, providing year-round food sources. Besides the plants themselves, brush, leaf and rock piles also provide good shelter for a diversity of wildlife. Christmas trees can provide great wildlife habitat after the holiday season, just remove all ornaments and tinsel first.If providing food, think diversity. Don’t just place one feeder, with one type of food. More options will attract more varieties and species by both the type of food and its placement. Water is essential to wildlife survival and can be tricky in the winter months. Shallow depressions are safest but can freeze quickly. The use of heated bowls/dishes or multiple watering throughout the day can help with freezing problems.
    
     WELCOME THE DISTRICT’S NEW MAEAP TECHNICIAN In December, Monroe Conservation District said goodbye to MAEAP Technician Taylor Myatt. Taylor served at the District for over 2.5 years. Thank you Taylor for your service and we wish you the best in your future endeavors.
    Please help us welcome a new member to our team, Emma Nehan. Emma began her role at Monroe Conservation District as our new MAEAP Technician at the beginning of January. 
    Raised in Troy, Michigan, Emma grew up camping, hiking, and biking in Michigan and Canada with her family. Emma graduated from Lake Superior State University with a BS in Conservation Biology and an Associate’s in Natural Resources Technology in 2015. After graduating Emma gained experience in the field of conservation and natural resources at A Conservation Corps, and Michigan United Conservation Clubs. Emma is excited to begin working with the Monroe agricultural community and to help the county of Monroe achieve its conservation goals.
    In her spare time, Emma takes solace in nature by backpacking, hiking, camping, and listening to podcasts and audiobooks with her fiance Danny. 
    Welcome Emma!Copyright © 2021 Monroe Conservation District, All rights reserved.
    You are receiving this email because you opted in via our website.
    
    Our mailing address is:
    Monroe Conservation District1137 S Telegraph Rd Monroe, MI 48161-4040
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Naida sent writing:  Deb Kessell sent this to me and I’m wondering if it would be a good article for the Blog?

Thanks,
Naida

Ann Arbor Farm & Garden presents

Janet Macunovich: Getting More Mileage from Your Garden

Thursday, February 11, 2021

1 pm via Zoom

Public admission $10

Registration: Janet Macunovich: Getting More Mileage from Your Garden

Gardeners love their gardens, but could they enjoy them more? Garden designer and author Janet Macunovich thinks the answer is “yes” in every case. There are always more layers of wonder and delight awaiting the gardener who digs a bit deeper with trowel, notebook, index and internet. Join Ann Arbor Farm & Garden and Janet on February 11^th via Zoom for a fun hour of history, folklore, science and magic unearthed from a garden.

This is a brand new topic for Janet, presented for the first time with AAFG and open to the public via Zoom virtual presentation. Registration is required by clicking here: Janet Macunovich: Getting More Mileage from Your Garden  Admission fee for non-members is $10 per person. Once you make your purchase, you will receive a confirmation email. This email will be your receipt for the February 11th Zoom program.  You will receive a reminder email in early February with the Zoom link to the program.

Janet Macunovich is a professional gardener, author and educator who has been designing, planting and maintaining gardens and landscapes for nearly 40 years. Janet’s horticultural training includes extensive coursework at botanical gardens and colleges. Since 1989 she has authored nine books, developed and presented seminars and workshops, hosted radio shows and written weekly gardening columns that have helped gardeners in the U.S., Canada, England, Europe and Brazil. She is recognized for her no-nonsense practicality, humor and ability to take the mystery out of gardening topics. She is co-founder of the Michigan School of Gardening (1996-2008) and the Association of Professional Gardeners.

Janet is co-owner with husband Steven Nikkila of Garden A to Z, a garden and landscape design and maintenance firm with clients in Michigan and several other States. They’re also the parents of two children, for whom Steven put his career on hold in 1981 to be full-time parent. At that time, Janet began moonlighting in gardening to help make ends meet and to pursue her passion. By 1984 the two were gardening together professionally, each with a child riding on their back. Since that time, gardening and garden education has been their full-time occupation.

Proceeds from this program will directly benefit AAF&G’s grant and scholarship fund. To learn more, visit our website at: http://www.annarborfarmandgarden.org/
—

Ann Arbor Farm & Garden (AAF&G) is a nonprofit social and philanthropic organization. Since our founding in 1946, we have distributed more than $600,000 in grants and student scholarships. We have been the horticultural therapy “Flower Ladies” at Mott Children’s Hospital for more than 35 years. The Garden Walk is our major annual fundraising event, with all proceeds benefiting local garden-related projects, programs, and people. Join us, and help continue our mission of giving, education, and community service. 

You have received this email because you expressed interest in the Ann Arbor Garden Walk in the past. We will only send you a few emails each year. We do not rent, sell or exchange membership lists with any person, group or organization. If you would like to be removed from the Ann Arbor Garden Walk email list, reply to this message and type “unsubscribe” in the subject line.  If you would like to join Ann Arbor Farm & Garden (AAF&G); nominate a garden, or have questions; please visit our website at www.annarborfarmandgarden.org or write to us at Ann Arbor Farm & Garden (AAF&G) P.O. Box 354; Dexter, MI 48130

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Sandy O’Connell has let us know that longtime member Sue Anderson passed away in hospice care in Virginia where a daughter lived. Sue kept her horticulture club membership even after illness prevented her from maintaining Master Gardener certification and while we had missed seeing her for some time now, many will remember her gentle spirit and unfailing cheerfulness at meetings and work sessions. Sandy wrote: “On Dec 23rd Master Gardener Susan Anderson passed away while in hospice care in Virginia. For years she and I tended the lower east and south gardens at the extension center. Some may still be making her butternut squash apple cranberry casserole that she took to one of the Christmas potlucks. I remember there were requests for the recipe after members tasted it.” 

Susan Anderson’s recipe
Butternut Squash Apple Cranberry Casserole

Ingredients
1 large butternut squash, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
2 large tart cooking apples
½ cup fresh or frozen cranberries
½ cup brown sugar
½ cup chopped pecans
¼ cup (4 tablespoons) butter
1-tablespoon flour
1-teaspoon salt
1-teaspoon cinnamon
½ teaspoon nutmeg

Preparation
Butter a 2 to 2 ½ – quart-baking dish. Heat oven to 350 degrees.
I washed the squash, put in microwave for 3 minutes for each pound. Then cut off ends, peeled and cubed. Core apples, peel, and cut into thin slices. Toss squash and apples together. Transfer squash and apple slices to the prepared baking dish. Put cranberries on top.

Combine brown sugar, flour, salt, cinnamon and nutmeg. Sprinkle on top of squash, apples and cranberries. Sprinkle chopped pecans over all and dot with butter. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until squash is tender.

We will miss her and her bright smile

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