Merry Christmas & Holiday Cheer!
Wishing all our friends a joyous and peace filled season and the best year to come!
Sunday, December 19, 2010
Christmas 2010
Rahn's Holiday Train Express
For the past 9 years we have provided entertainment for young and not so young children with our 3 rail, o gauge, 1/48th scale train display. Over the years, this display has grown from one train to seven this year! This is no longer just a display, but a functional system that can run as many as 7 trains at one time! From the deep mountain tunnel to the water run grist mill, the trains also move past a running river, the farm country and through the village. You can see eyes sparkle with delight as the six minute run with seven trains stopping and starting at crossings make their full circuit before beginning the cycle again. The villages are full of holiday cheer with a skating rink, toy shop, Christmas tree lot run by the boy scouts, a bakery, cafe, church, carolers in the square, and so much more.
Please stop in to see and enjoy a very close view from three sides, and chat with our master engineer Keith, who will regale you with stories of our display and other train displays in the city.
We'll have the trains up and running until Dec. 31, so hurry in!
By: Doris Koop
Gardening Expert at A.J. Rahn's Greenhouses
Please stop in to see and enjoy a very close view from three sides, and chat with our master engineer Keith, who will regale you with stories of our display and other train displays in the city.
We'll have the trains up and running until Dec. 31, so hurry in!
By: Doris Koop
Gardening Expert at A.J. Rahn's Greenhouses
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Fraser Fir
Fraser Fir
Abies Fraseri
I love walking outside the greenhouses to take in the wonderful scent of our Fraser Fir trees. "Abies Fraseri" are native to the higher Southern Appalachian Mountains of North Carolina, and are named after their discoverer, John Fraser, a North American plant collector.
The Fraser has become a most cherished Christmas tree, and has historically been selected most often for our nation's White House Holiday tree because of it's natural symmetry and inviting fragrance. As importantly, I asked family and friends of the greenhouse why their repeated Holiday choice was the Fraser. Here are some of their responses.
Debbie: "Aromatics. They have a wonderful scent and are long lasting. The Fraser Fir stays fresh throughout the season; they are Everfresh."
Sandy: "They have a fresh natural outdoor fragrance. They hold their beauty, fragrance and fullness well beyond Christmas and the New Year holidays. Our Frasers are not taken from the wild but are grown on a small family farm in North Carolina. I appreciate that, for every one they cut, the family replants two or three to replenish nature. I value that they cut them the week before Thanksgiving and deliver them within three days. That's Fresh! Also, these trees can have a life after the holidays. Just place them in your backyard until spring to create a warm habitat for our winter bird friends."
Michelle: "They hold their needles, so no shedding on your floors and the fragrance is unbeatable for that fresh smell."
Susan: :They change the feeling of the room they're in with their aroma and the depths of their green and the thickness of their foliage."
Joe: "The Fraser is simply the best tree you can get in this region in terms of freshness, scent, and beauty."
Frank: "Of course the true fir scent is wonderful, but also the thick open foliage allows for a perfect ornament display both on the edge and on the inner segments of the branches. Also, the needles are soft with little dropping, and the color is multifaceted; a bold rich green with a hint of blue gray on the underside."
Well, for me, the gift of the Fraser trees, available at our greenhouse, is that they are produced by a family farm that values the replenishment of the land and focuses on providing a gifted Holiday experience to our winter Holidays. There is no other regionally grown tree that shares, in such a complete way, the aroma and thick lush deep green texture this evergreen provides, which also lifts and feeds our winter celebrations and life. I am grateful when I walk out the door and experience the wonderful scent of our Abies Fraseri trees. I invite you to come and share the experience. It is a true delight!
All good,
Margaret Rahn
The Fraser has become a most cherished Christmas tree, and has historically been selected most often for our nation's White House Holiday tree because of it's natural symmetry and inviting fragrance. As importantly, I asked family and friends of the greenhouse why their repeated Holiday choice was the Fraser. Here are some of their responses.
Debbie: "Aromatics. They have a wonderful scent and are long lasting. The Fraser Fir stays fresh throughout the season; they are Everfresh."
Sandy: "They have a fresh natural outdoor fragrance. They hold their beauty, fragrance and fullness well beyond Christmas and the New Year holidays. Our Frasers are not taken from the wild but are grown on a small family farm in North Carolina. I appreciate that, for every one they cut, the family replants two or three to replenish nature. I value that they cut them the week before Thanksgiving and deliver them within three days. That's Fresh! Also, these trees can have a life after the holidays. Just place them in your backyard until spring to create a warm habitat for our winter bird friends."
Michelle: "They hold their needles, so no shedding on your floors and the fragrance is unbeatable for that fresh smell."
Susan: :They change the feeling of the room they're in with their aroma and the depths of their green and the thickness of their foliage."
Joe: "The Fraser is simply the best tree you can get in this region in terms of freshness, scent, and beauty."
Frank: "Of course the true fir scent is wonderful, but also the thick open foliage allows for a perfect ornament display both on the edge and on the inner segments of the branches. Also, the needles are soft with little dropping, and the color is multifaceted; a bold rich green with a hint of blue gray on the underside."
Well, for me, the gift of the Fraser trees, available at our greenhouse, is that they are produced by a family farm that values the replenishment of the land and focuses on providing a gifted Holiday experience to our winter Holidays. There is no other regionally grown tree that shares, in such a complete way, the aroma and thick lush deep green texture this evergreen provides, which also lifts and feeds our winter celebrations and life. I am grateful when I walk out the door and experience the wonderful scent of our Abies Fraseri trees. I invite you to come and share the experience. It is a true delight!
All good,
Margaret Rahn
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
Poinsettia
Poinsettia
A truly traditional holiday plant, the poinsettia has become a staple in many homes and businesses during the Christmas holidays. It's stunning colors and form, as well as it's easy care, make it a wonderful choice.
Here at A.J. Rahn Greenhouses, all of our poinsettias are grown in clay pots on site, giving them optimum growing conditions for beautiful color in your decoration scheme. Poinsettias prefer a brightly lit location, away from drafts (either cold or warm), and to be watered only when the soil is dry to the touch. They now come in many more colors than red or white. Some of the newer varieties are: Ice Punch, a beautiful hot pink and light pink blend; Peppermint Stick, pictured above with spots of deep reddish pink; Polar Bear, a very white- white with deep green foliage; and Visions of Grandeur, a very spicy peach color.
Every year during the holiday season, we find it necessary to discuss an "old wives tale" that continues to persist about poinsettias. It is alleged that parts or all of the poinsettia plant are poisonous to pets and/or people. This is definitely Not True! Poinsettias are not poisonous to people or pets. The Ohio State University in 1971 ran extensive studies on the toxicity of all parts of the poinsettia plant. This study was done in response to a movement to place safety caution tags on all plants deemed poisonous. Results of these tests were conclusive that no part of the poinsettia plant was poisonous to people or pets. Calico will testify to this fact! At the time, the studies were reported on all news media, but every year since then, the myth has persisted. This is primarily due to lack of knowledge on the part of newscasters and, surprisingly, veterinarians.
So fear not! Enjoy the beauty of this seasonal house plant during the holidays, then cut them back in March and they will make great foliage plants outdoors in the summer.
By: Sandy Weinkam
Gardening Expert at A.J. Rahn Greenhouses
Here at A.J. Rahn Greenhouses, all of our poinsettias are grown in clay pots on site, giving them optimum growing conditions for beautiful color in your decoration scheme. Poinsettias prefer a brightly lit location, away from drafts (either cold or warm), and to be watered only when the soil is dry to the touch. They now come in many more colors than red or white. Some of the newer varieties are: Ice Punch, a beautiful hot pink and light pink blend; Peppermint Stick, pictured above with spots of deep reddish pink; Polar Bear, a very white- white with deep green foliage; and Visions of Grandeur, a very spicy peach color.
Every year during the holiday season, we find it necessary to discuss an "old wives tale" that continues to persist about poinsettias. It is alleged that parts or all of the poinsettia plant are poisonous to pets and/or people. This is definitely Not True! Poinsettias are not poisonous to people or pets. The Ohio State University in 1971 ran extensive studies on the toxicity of all parts of the poinsettia plant. This study was done in response to a movement to place safety caution tags on all plants deemed poisonous. Results of these tests were conclusive that no part of the poinsettia plant was poisonous to people or pets. Calico will testify to this fact! At the time, the studies were reported on all news media, but every year since then, the myth has persisted. This is primarily due to lack of knowledge on the part of newscasters and, surprisingly, veterinarians.
So fear not! Enjoy the beauty of this seasonal house plant during the holidays, then cut them back in March and they will make great foliage plants outdoors in the summer.
By: Sandy Weinkam
Gardening Expert at A.J. Rahn Greenhouses
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Angel Trumpet / Brugmansia
Angel Trumpet
Brugmansia
The Angel Trumpet plant is a most unusual specimen that is sure to cause people to stop and stare. With it's pendulous trumpet shaped flowers, and it's vigorous growth habit, it makes quite a statement in your yard or in your house.
This tropical plant prefers moist, fertile, well drained soil in full to part sun. If grown indoors, give it as much indirect light as possible, or it may not bloom. Bloom time varies according to conditions, but in our area it blooms primarily in the fall after the summer temperatures cool down. Keep this plant outside in the spring and summer and fertilize on a regular basis during this time frame. It will need to be brought in when night time temperatures drop into the 40's, and can be cut back and allowed to go dormant for the winter. Water sparingly during this time and do not fertilize.
Blooms appear usually in fall after the plant has reached 3-5' in height. They can come in a variety of colors: white, yellow, red, pink, or orange. They have a distinct lemony fragrance that is strongest as evening approaches. Some of them may have double trumpets, and some may have variegated foliage dependent on the variety.
One important fact to note about the Angel Trumpet plant is that all parts of it are poisonous. Take precautions around children and pets when growing this beauty.
By: Sandy Weinkam
Gardening Expert at A.J. Rahn's Greenhouses
This tropical plant prefers moist, fertile, well drained soil in full to part sun. If grown indoors, give it as much indirect light as possible, or it may not bloom. Bloom time varies according to conditions, but in our area it blooms primarily in the fall after the summer temperatures cool down. Keep this plant outside in the spring and summer and fertilize on a regular basis during this time frame. It will need to be brought in when night time temperatures drop into the 40's, and can be cut back and allowed to go dormant for the winter. Water sparingly during this time and do not fertilize.
Blooms appear usually in fall after the plant has reached 3-5' in height. They can come in a variety of colors: white, yellow, red, pink, or orange. They have a distinct lemony fragrance that is strongest as evening approaches. Some of them may have double trumpets, and some may have variegated foliage dependent on the variety.
One important fact to note about the Angel Trumpet plant is that all parts of it are poisonous. Take precautions around children and pets when growing this beauty.
By: Sandy Weinkam
Gardening Expert at A.J. Rahn's Greenhouses
Monday, November 8, 2010
Night Blooming Cereus
Night Blooming Cereus
The eye popping white, very fragrant flowers on this cactus type houseplant more than make up for the uninteresting foliage this plant displays. As a result of the foliage, Cereus is difficult to find in most stores. The Cereus is, however, easy to start from cuttings, and once people see and smell the flowers, you will be getting lots of requests for a cutting. Easy to grow, this prolific cactus plant prefers well drained soil with organic matter and sand and wants to be pot bound to bloom.
During the spring and summer, this plant prefers being outside in filtered light. Feed monthly during this time with houseplant fertilizer and water when dry. It will begin to set bud in late summer- early fall along the stems, and as temperatures cool in mid to late fall, bring the plant indoors and keep near a well lit window. As the buds swell over time, you will begin to notice the elongated buds growing and approaching maturity. When fully mature, the buds will begin to open around 9 -10:00pm one night, and will be fully open by around midnight. Some who have watched them open, swear you can almost see minute by minute progress! You'll want to stay up long enough to see and smell this amazing flower display, because the flowers only last one night, and by morning will wither and fade.
With the conclusion of flowering, reduce watering and discontinue fertilizing through the winter months. These plants really do want to be root bound, and will only bloom when they have reached a certain age, (usually 3-5 years).
For an unusual yet easy to grow flowering cactus, the night blooming Cereus is one I would definitely recommend.
By: Sandy Weinkam
Gardening Expert at A.J. Rahn Greenhouses
During the spring and summer, this plant prefers being outside in filtered light. Feed monthly during this time with houseplant fertilizer and water when dry. It will begin to set bud in late summer- early fall along the stems, and as temperatures cool in mid to late fall, bring the plant indoors and keep near a well lit window. As the buds swell over time, you will begin to notice the elongated buds growing and approaching maturity. When fully mature, the buds will begin to open around 9 -10:00pm one night, and will be fully open by around midnight. Some who have watched them open, swear you can almost see minute by minute progress! You'll want to stay up long enough to see and smell this amazing flower display, because the flowers only last one night, and by morning will wither and fade.
With the conclusion of flowering, reduce watering and discontinue fertilizing through the winter months. These plants really do want to be root bound, and will only bloom when they have reached a certain age, (usually 3-5 years).
For an unusual yet easy to grow flowering cactus, the night blooming Cereus is one I would definitely recommend.
By: Sandy Weinkam
Gardening Expert at A.J. Rahn Greenhouses
Monday, November 1, 2010
Garden Winterizing
Garden Winterizing
Cold temperatures are now upon us, and a few garden chores need to be done before retreating to the inside. To help winterize your garden to get the best jump on next spring, and assure perennials' and trees' survival over the winter months, get out the rakes and clippers.
All annuals except fall Pansies and flowering Kale and Cabbage, need to be removed from your flower beds. As long as none of these plants had some disease such as mildew, they can be chopped up and put in the compost pile. For perennials, cut back the foliage to just ground level after the first hard frost, then cover them with mulched leaves to keep them from trying to come up during a possible warm spell in February.
Before the ground freezes, water evergreens, especially broad leaf evergreens such as rhododendrons, hollies, and azaleas, and newly planted trees and shrubs. These also will benefit from a mulch cover for winter.
Roses do not have to be pruned before winter unless the canes are very long and in danger of being wind whipped and broken off. If they are, only prune enough to keep this problem from occurring. Some winter die back usually occurs, and if you prune them now, you will most likely have to prune off winter die back in the spring, possibly stunting your bushes and causing them to struggle to regain their vigor. Clean all leaves and dead branches from the roses, both on the bushes and under them, throwing them away and not putting them in your compost. Any fungal diseases from this year will winter over and create havoc on your roses next season. Finally, to ensure your bushes do not freeze if we have an unusually cold winter, sometime in December mulch up around the base of your bushes to protect the grafted area.
Rake fallen leaves from the lawn to prevent grass mold and possible grass loss over the winter due to lack of sun on the grasses. If you have a mulching mower, you can mulch the leaves into the lawn as long as they are not heavily blanketing the grass.
Cover containers that will remain outdoors to prevent them from filling with water and then freezing and cracking. Clean terra cotta pots and concrete containers and store them in a garage or basement.
Drain and bring in garden hoses and turn off outdoor taps.
Finally, clean and sharpen all your garden tools before you put them away, and before you know it, it will be time to plant your spring garden and you will have a great head start!
By: Michelle Lynn
Gardening Expert at A.J. Rahn Greenhouses
All annuals except fall Pansies and flowering Kale and Cabbage, need to be removed from your flower beds. As long as none of these plants had some disease such as mildew, they can be chopped up and put in the compost pile. For perennials, cut back the foliage to just ground level after the first hard frost, then cover them with mulched leaves to keep them from trying to come up during a possible warm spell in February.
Before the ground freezes, water evergreens, especially broad leaf evergreens such as rhododendrons, hollies, and azaleas, and newly planted trees and shrubs. These also will benefit from a mulch cover for winter.
Roses do not have to be pruned before winter unless the canes are very long and in danger of being wind whipped and broken off. If they are, only prune enough to keep this problem from occurring. Some winter die back usually occurs, and if you prune them now, you will most likely have to prune off winter die back in the spring, possibly stunting your bushes and causing them to struggle to regain their vigor. Clean all leaves and dead branches from the roses, both on the bushes and under them, throwing them away and not putting them in your compost. Any fungal diseases from this year will winter over and create havoc on your roses next season. Finally, to ensure your bushes do not freeze if we have an unusually cold winter, sometime in December mulch up around the base of your bushes to protect the grafted area.
Rake fallen leaves from the lawn to prevent grass mold and possible grass loss over the winter due to lack of sun on the grasses. If you have a mulching mower, you can mulch the leaves into the lawn as long as they are not heavily blanketing the grass.
Cover containers that will remain outdoors to prevent them from filling with water and then freezing and cracking. Clean terra cotta pots and concrete containers and store them in a garage or basement.
Drain and bring in garden hoses and turn off outdoor taps.
Finally, clean and sharpen all your garden tools before you put them away, and before you know it, it will be time to plant your spring garden and you will have a great head start!
By: Michelle Lynn
Gardening Expert at A.J. Rahn Greenhouses
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