Merry Christmas & Holiday Cheer!

Wishing all our friends a joyous and peace filled season and the best year to come!

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

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

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

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

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

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

Fall Color

Fall Color

Gardeners hate to admit defeat even when the opponent is the weather. Our water bills from this summer are proof of that! Many of us feel the same way about the approaching winter. We would rather end the growing season with one last burst of color. Fortunately there are many plants that do well in, and even love the cooler temperatures.
Familiar fall plants such as chrysanthemums, ornamental kales and flowering cabbages come in a wide variety of flower colors and leaf textures. The kales and cabbages will continue to look great even into the beginning of winter. Many become more colorful as the temperature gets colder. The hardy mums will bloom for weeks and are frost tolerant. Although the hardy mums are not considered to be perennial plants in our zone, they may reappear in your garden next summer.

Some of the other annual plants that thrive in cool temperatures are calibrachoa (million bells), argyranthemum, snapdragon and dusty miller. The adorable pansies, violas and panolas that are so popular in the spring will also do beautifully in cool to even cold fall conditions. Annual and perennial grasses can add height and texture to fall gardens and container plantings. Where many perennials have already had their blooming time, asters are just beginnig to show off their color. Huechera, with their palette of colors of foliage, will also add to your fall landscape.

By mixing some of these cool weather annuals and perennials in your garden or containers with colorful gourds and pumpkins you can enjoy a new growing season of fall color.

By: Gayla Parker
Gardening Expert at A.J. Rahn Greenhouses

Fall Vegetables

Fall Vegetables

With cooler weather on the way, now is a good time to make room in your garden for fall vegetables. If some of your summer vegetable crop is finished, perhaps it's time to send them off to the compost pile and plant a few of the various cole crops and lettuces. Cabbages, Broccoli, Collards, Kale, Turnips, Radishes and a variety of lettuce types will keep you supplied in fresh vegetables long after the summer crop is finished. Seeds can be started indoors now, then transplanted outside. Many garden centers have already started these seeds for you and you can purchase seedlings two or three weeks in growth and ready to transplant. Be sure to offer some protection from hungry critters with a fence or special cloth cover that allows light and water through, or try planting in containers to foil their little appetites.
Cool weather crops tend to do better in the fall than in the spring, due to fewer insect pests and the temperatures moving toward cooler rather than toward warmer. If frost is a possibility overnight, you can cover the plants and still have good crops for quite a few weeks more. No extra fertilizer is necessary, however a bit of compost around the plants will give them nutrients that may be depleted from the summer crop. Of course, if no rain is occurring, water when necessary.
These plants require little attention and offer lots of great eating for many more weeks before it will be time to shut the garden down for the winter.

By: Sandy Weinkam
Gardening Expert at A.J. Greenhouses

Hardy Hibiscus

Hardy Hibiscus

It is hard to beat the beautiful mid summer bloom of the perennial hardy hibiscus. The flowers can be anywhere from 4 to 12" in diameter. Often called rose mallow, the hardy hibiscus blooms in mid summer and continues blooming until mid September. They are relatively easy to grow, and once established will delight you year after year with their huge showy blooms. Colors range from white to deep reds, purples and pinks, as well as a new variety of yellow. Foliage colors also appear in many shades of green as well as copper and burgundy.
Hardy hibiscus need a sunny location and moist well drained soil to be their best. They can be planted from May to as late as Labor Day, giving them plenty of time to get rooted in before winter. Although they have a woody stem, they may die back to the ground during the winter. They frequently don't reappear in spring until mid to late May, but grow quickly once they appear. Give these plants lots of room to grow and expand, as some can reach up to 6 feet tall and 3-4 feet in diameter. A slow release general purpose fertilizer applied as soon as they begin to appear in mid spring will assure a strong, healthy, showy specimen all summer. Watering is usually not a problem unless two or three weeks goes by without rain, in which case you will have to water them as you would any woody plant. This is, of course, after they are established. New plantings will need more frequent watering until they are well rooted in.
For an easy, showy perennial to have in your landscape, Calico recommends you find some space in your flower bed for one or two of these magnificent specimens!

By: Gayla Parker
Gardening Expert at A.J. Rahn Greenhouses

Drought

Drought

Drought conditions can occur at any time of year, but tend to occur most frequently during the summer and fall months. Most gardeners will recognize the effects of even a short term drought on annuals, lawns, shrubs, and perennials in their landscape, and will respond appropriately and in a timely manner with a thorough watering of the affected plants. Many people, however, may not recognize early symptoms of drought in landscape trees until those plantings are in severe stress. Symptoms of drought injury to trees may be sudden, or take two or three years to be revealed. Symptoms can include wilting, curling, yellowing or even browning of foliage on both deciduous and evergreen specimens. Often drought stress may not kill a tree outright, but may weaken it to the point where infestation of insects or diseases takes it's toll. Considering the fact that replacement of a tree specimen in your landscape can be quite costly, it is wise to pay even more attention to your trees than your lawn or plants.
How much water a tree should receive depends on the tree size. Small trees (one to seven inches in diameter) and medium trees ( eight to fifteen inches in diameter) should be watered deeply at least three times per month April to September if significant and/or frequent rainfall has not occurred for two weeks or more. Watering methods include: automated drip irrigation systems; soaker hoses coiled several times under the dripline; five gallon buckets with 1/4 " holes drilled in the bottom (place at least three under the tree if small, five or more for medium to large trees); watering bags; soil needles (deep root feeders). Remember the roots on established trees may be quite deep, so a light watering is not helpful, even if you do it every day. Water deeply and slowly for 4 to 8 hours based on tree trunk diameter size three times a month as mentioned previously.
Healthy, mature trees should be able to withstand a short term drought, but keeping them healthy is most important. Remember to look up for signs of drought in your trees, especially when you notice your landscape plantings suffering from lack of moisture.

By: Michelle Lynn
Gardening Expert at A.J. Rahn Greenhouses

Delphinium

Delphinium

Delphinium are an old fashioned favorite in many gardens. Their tall elegant spires and beautiful colors stand out in bold fashion at the back of any garden. For a bright blue color that may be hard to achieve in your garden otherwise, Delphinium provide many blue hues from very dark to all shades of light blue. Other colors such as white, pink, yellow, and red are also available.
Delphinium prefer full sun, but cool roots, so provide this with summer mulch. Good winter drainage is a must to prevent freezing and thawing of the crown. When watering, don't allow the foliage to get wet as you will then have to fight mildew. Before blooms appear, only water when the soil is somewhat dry. Once they begin blooming, however, they will need water more frequently. Fertilize with bone meal in the spring when they first begin to appear above ground. Slugs can be a big problem, so keep slug bait around the plants to avoid holey foliage. Since many of these beauties have such tall flower spikes, up to six feet with some varieties, staking is helpful to prevent breakage and crimping of the stalks. There are newer varieties, however that only achieve a foot or two in height for those who don't have space for such tall varieties. Most varieties survive and flower about three years, after which you should dig up and divide the plant. Reseeding also occurs freely if you don't deadhead the old flowers.

By: Sandy Weinkam
Gardening Expert at A.J. Rahn Greenhouses

Tomatoes

Tomatoes

A long awaited treat for summer is now available in many backyard gardens and local farmer's markets. Juicy ripe tomatoes that we dream of all winter are finally here! This easy to grow vegetable/fruit plant thrives in full sun and really grows well in decent soil. It will also produce in poorer soils but perhaps not as prolifically. You can start seeds in February inside and slowly move to bigger pots as the seedlings produce two or three sets of leaflets, being always sure to keep them on a sunny windowsill. As April arrives, move them outside during warm days for optimum sun exposure, being careful always to bring them in at night. Tomato plants simply abhor cool or cold nights (below 50F) and may take quite awhile to recover from a chill. They can be safely planted in our zone 5 after the 15th of May. For an easier, less hands on job, many garden centers have plants available usually in late April. These can be planted directly in your garden, again when weather conditions permit. If you apply a slow release fertilizer at the time of transplanting them into your garden, they will provide you with abundant fruits from sometime in July until late September or later, dependent on the night temperatures. Staking or caging your plants keeps the fruit off the ground where they might rot. Water only when the soil is completely dry once they are planted. If you wish to plant in a container, use only one plant in a container no smaller than 14" in diameter, as these plants need lots of room for roots and plant.
Pests include the tomato hornworm, a very large green caterpillar that will defoliate your plant rather quickly, and the smaller green and black tomato worm, that bores into the fruit whether it's green or red. Neither are very prolific, and can usually be spotted with regular exams of your plant. When you find one, the best control is to pull them off (Tomato Hornworm), or out of your tomato (Tomato Worm), drop them to the ground and apply your garden shoe to them. Squirrels have also become major pests recently. Short of completely fencing your tomato garden including the top, just plant enough for everyone to share. Sometimes the squirrels are just looking for moisture, in which case a birdbath or dish of water not too close to the garden usually helps.
There are as many types of tomatoes as there are tastes. Heirloom tomatoes that have been around since tomatoes were first domesticated, are very flavorful, but perhaps not as prolific as the hybrid varieties. Cherry type tomatoes and grape tomatoes are extremely heavy bearing plants that will keep you and your whole neighborhood supplied with enough tomatoes for all your salad needs or just to pop in your mouth for a healthy snack. Now also available is the tomaccio tomato that is easily dried for use in pestoes and other dried tomato recipes. The most common tomatoes planted, however, are the big Beefsteak or Supersonic varieties, or the Big Boy or Better Boy medium size tomatoes, very flavorful and heavy bearing..
Whether you have lots of garden space, just a small space in the flower bed, or only room for one potted tomato plant, it is definitely worth planting this easy to grow vegetable/fruit if only to have the fulfillment of juicy, flavorful taste all summer long.

By: Sandy Weinkam
Gardening Expert at A.J. Rahn Greenhouses

Calico wishes everyone a patriotic 4th of July from her A.J. Rahn Greenhouses friends and family! Have a safe 4th!

Perennial Tall Phlox

Perennial Tall Phlox

Tall Phlox is a staple perennial plant in most sunny gardens. The newer varieties are displaying many vibrant colors while showing little of the mildew problems of the older varieties. Height varies by variety, but ranges from 18" -36" on very sturdy stems. Colors cover a broad spectrum from white to pinks and lavenders and reds, blooming from early to late summer. All varieties are fragrant and attract butterflies and hummingbirds.
As with all perennial plants, proper soil and light conditions will promote many years of enjoyment without having to replace them from year to year. Phlox thrives in full sun and well drained soil, and prefers to have good spacing for air circulation for best mildew prevention. Application of a general purpose slow release fertilizer in spring will bring out the best color and growth in your flowers for the whole summer.
Place these beauties in the back of your perennial garden for their height advantage, and save the front space for shorter perennials.

By: Sandy Weinkam
Gardening Expert at A. J. Rahn Greenhouses

Succulents

Succulents are becoming more popular as houseplants due to the growing trend to save water by using plants that do not require a lot of moisture. There is great diversity of form, color, and texture in succulants that can be used in containers both indoors, and outdoors during the summer.
Succulents need high light levels, warmth, and good ventilation to thrive. During the growing season, feed succulents with a general purpose house plant fertilizer to help maintain growth and encourage flowering.
When repotting succulents into larger containers, the soil needs to be well drained. Use one part sand or grit to two parts soil-less mix. Choose containers that have drainage holes in the base. Succulents require more water when they are actively growing, which is usually in Spring and Summer. Use less water when they are resting during the winter.
Be on the lookout for our new shipment of cacti and succulents mid-June 2010.

By Michelle Lynn
Gardening Expert at A.J. Rahn Greenhouses

Dutchman's Pipe
Aristolochia littoralis

Dutchman's Pipe has an unusual looking flower that attracts butterflies and blooms all summer and fall. This vigorous climber with the Meerschaum pipe shaped buds and heart shaped deep green leaves will thrive in shade or part shade, in well drained moist soil conditions. It is zoned 5-9, so will survive the winter in our area of Greater Cincinnati. It will grow and climb 8-10' in height and flowers on old wood.
Application of general purpose fertilizer at the beginning of each growing season and then periodically throughout the season will bring a plethora of flowers to enjoy as well as marvel at their unusual looks. Their leaves are an excellent food source for Swallowtail butterfly larvae.
This plant is also known as the Calico Flower because of it's color when fully opened.

By: Sandy Weinkam
Gardening Expert at A.J. Rahn's Greenhouses

Hummingbird Attractors

Hummingbird Attractors

Most of us fill our gardens with plants that we find to be beautiful. Fortunately, our plants not only attract our attention but also attract the attention of hummingbirds. Encouraging hummingbirds to visit during the spring and summer can be done by planting plants that they like and by supplying them with nectar by using hummingbird feeders.
There are a large variety of plants that attract hummingbirds. Although the color red is their favorite, you are not limited to using only red flowers. The following is a small sample of some of the flowers that commonly attract hummingbirds:

Bee Balm(Monarda), Colombine(Aquilegia), Butterfly Bush(Buddleia), Delphinium,
Hollyhock(Alcea), Trumpet Vine(Campsis), Cardinal Vine(Lobelia), Rose of Sharon,
Lantana, Fuchsia, Canna, Impatiens.

You may choose to further encourage these tiny birds to become frequent visitors by using commercial feeders. The proper nectar solution for a feeder is one part sugar to four parts water. Using a stronger solution could be too difficult for them to digest. Adding red food coloring is unnecessary since most feeders have red parts made to attract the hummingbirds. The solution should be changed every few days to prevent it from fermenting. In addition, the feeders should be thoroughly cleaned once a week with hot, soapy water and rinsed with boiling water. Filling the feeder with a small amount of food will help remind you to clean it before refilling with new solution.
Hummingbirds are very territorial, so hanging more than one feeder may help keep peace among males who visit the feeders. Feeders placed at different heights may also discourage aggressive behavior.
Providing water also encourages the hummingbirds to visit your garden. They find sprinklers and misters irresistible and will often bathe in the drips collected on the leaves of nearby plants.
Most gardeners love to share the beauty of their gardens with their friends. You will certainly want to count these beautiful and entertaining little birds among some of your most cherished friends.

By: Gayla Parker
Gardening Expert at A.J. Rahn Greenhouses

Wax Begonias

Wax Begonia

One of the most common annuals for the spring, summer and fall growing season is the Wax Begonia. In praise of this 'lowly' plant, I would like to tout some of it's many virtues. First and foremost, it blooms all season until frost. It doesn't require deadheading. It will thrive in full sun or full shade and all light between. It grows in a beautiful compact mound and creates a perfect border. Colors range from white, to light and dark pink, to red, and the foliage can be a soft green to a dark burgundy. With proper watering and occasional fertilizer, these carefree plants will offer delightful color and shape to any garden setting! Seriously!

By: Susan Rahn
Gardening Expert at A.J. Rahn Greenhouses

Clematis

Clematis
Pink Fantasy

Clematis are one of the most recognizable perennial plants in spring and early summer. With their huge flowers in a wide array of colors, they grace fences, lampposts, mailboxes and trellises in many neighborhood yards. Some are fragrant like the fall blooming Autumn Clematis (Paniculata), some have small bell shaped flowers (Betty Corning), but most come in large double and single petaled flowers. Certain varieties can bloom on new growth, some can only bloom on last year's growth, and many can bloom on both. Those varieties that bloom on new or both can be trimmed at any time, spring or fall, and will still bloom profusely. Those that bloom on old wood shouldn't be trimmed, or if necessary, only after the spring bloom is over so they have all summer to put enough growth on to bloom again next spring. Always check your garden store to determine which variety you are purchasing.
Especially the first year of planting, Clematis like to have their roots shaded from the hot summer sun, so plant a few annuals around your Clematis to keep it happy and thriving, and it's roots cool. A slow release fertilizer such as Osmocote applied in early spring will give your plant the boost it needs to produce lots of large flowers, then if you choose, you can give it a general purpose water soluble fertilizer every two weeks according to directions on your fertilizer product during the summer to encourage lots of foliage growth. Frequently, your Clematis will surprise you with a second flowering in fall as well! The first year be especially careful to water your new plant during dry spells so root production can get a good start. Once established, your Clematis shouldn't need any more care than you give to all your landscape plants.
Every year your Clematis will grow and fill in and produce more and more eye popping blooms than the year before!

By: Sandy Weinkam
Gardening Expert at A.J. Rahn Greenhouses

Jungle Geranium

Ixora coccinea
Jungle Geranium

Ixora is a bushy, rounded shrub that has been popular as a hedge plant in subtropical regions of Florida. Originally from southeast Asia, Ixora plants thrive in at least four hours of direct sunlight a day. They prefer warm humid conditions which makes them a great plant for containers in our area in spring and summer, and as an indoor plant in fall and winter. Of course they don't normally reach shrub proportions in our area.
Their foliage is a glossy dark green, and most species have dense flower clusters appearing on the branch tips in red, yellow or orange petals. When potting these for containers use a mixture of 2 parts peat, 1 part potting soil, and 1 part sand or perlite. Keep the soil moist and fertilize with an acidic fertilizer every two weeks in spring and summer.
These plants look lovely in containers , in tropical deck settings, or pool side, and attract butterflies and hummingbirds all summer long!

By: Michelle Lynn
Gardening expert at A.J. Rahn Greenhouses

White Daffodils

Spring Daffodils

Early spring flowers are in their final stages, and after Easter flower rush week, we are moving forward into mid spring second round plantings of many annuals, vegetables and herbs. The third wave of lettuce has been seeded, and the first two sets have sold out. We are waiting for the plants to get big enough to put out for sale. Basil, cilantro, parsley and other herbs have been seeded, as well as squash varieties of vegetables, eggplant and many more. Tomatoes and pepper seedlings were transplanted from seed trays to peat pots. With over 20 varieties of tomatoes and 20 varieties of peppers, this took more than a week of continuous planting.
Also on the list of plantings were patio pots of double impatiens and New Guinea impatiens. The impatiens bags planted three weeks ago are coming along nicely and filling out all their little niches. The never ending planting of petunias goes on and on. Tops on the list last week was the start of the wave petunia plantings. This will probably take up to two weeks to complete.
To keep up with our planting team, someone has to make up the soil mixes, fill pots and flats, tag each pot, then move them into their growing houses. Many hands go into accomplishing all these tasks to get the plants to retail, and everyone pitches in. Whatever needs to be done at any given moment to keep the flow going, someone will pitch in to keep the ball rolling.
On sunny days, which we've had a lot of recently, watering becomes a top priority. All those plants being planted won't amount to much if not watered when they need it. Sometimes planters have to stop to help water to keep up. Some plants will not need to be watered as often as others, but on sunny warm days almost everything will need a drink at least once a day, and seeds won't germinate without being kept moist.
Finally, most of our nursery stock came in last week, including lilacs, forsythia, and viburnum, all of which are blooming now in the neighborhood. Also, creeping phlox is looking like lovely carpets out in the yards and ours are ready as well. Roses have been put out for sale this past week, and everyone is anxious to get their hands on the newest varieties such as yellow Monkey Business and Ch Ching.

By: The Production Staff

Dicentra spectabilis

Dicentra spectabilis
Bleeding Heart

A favorite perennial in Grandmothers garden and still a favorite today is the Bleeding Heart. This very hardy perennial is an early blooming, feathery foliage plant that will thrive in sun or part shade. It really prefers afternoon shade though, as our very hot humid summers in the Midwest will cause it to go dormant early. It works well with ferns, which will hide the foliage going dormant when the weather really gets hot. It is hardy in zones 1-9, and will reach 2-4' in height with a spread of 18-24". Pink heart shaped flowers in abundance form along arching stems in late spring to early summer.
Best soil composition is moist, fertile, well drained, and humus rich. Fertilize in spring with organic fertilizer like compost or aged manure. If you need to move or divide this plant, it's best to do it in early spring when it just begins to emerge from the ground.
This perennial is also available in white blooming hearts ( alba), as well as the newest red variety called Burning Hearts, both varieties of which we carry. The King of Hearts variety has pink hearts, but the foliage is much lacier looking than the spectabilis types.

By: Sandy Weinkam
A.J. Rahn Greenhouses

Rose Progress

Roses Four Weeks Later

Roses Mid February

As you can clearly see from the above two photos, the warm sunny weather the past few weeks has moved the roses from barely breaking dormancy to full fledged foliage growth. As we walk past the greenhouses each day, we don't see the dramatic change as much as when we look back on that first photo published four weeks ago. Before long we will be moving them out of the greenhouses into the field to give them more room to grow and allow them to harden off (get used to the outdoor temperatures) before setting them out for sale.
This past week has seen a continued effort to get everything planted up so all the annuals and vegetables and herbs have time to reach sale maturity. Cosmos, beets, and zinnia seeds were sown, while begonias both wax and dragonwing were transplanted into their final pots. Also transplanted this past week were impatiens, dahlias, verbena, and pentas. Belden baskets of impatiens were planted up in a myriad of colors. Belden baskets are hanging baskets with holes all around the sides of the basket where plants are planted in each of those holes as well as in the top of the basket. This creates a very full look both on top and all around the basket.
Cuttings were taken of some of the more unusual colored coleus plants to root them and double or even triple the number of these that will be available for sale in May. Our greenhouses are filling up fast with all these annuals and vegetables. Of course our planting would not be complete without transplanting more of literally thousands of petunias! We never seem to be finished planting these popular annuals.
Finally, all the pansies have been brought out of their winter greenhouses into the retail area. They bring so much color and spring feel to your garden, and even though we had a surprise light snow Thursday night, it didn't affect those little beauties one bit. We are also enjoying all the daffodils around our greenhouses that are now in full bloom after the crocuses just completed their bloom cycle.

By: The Production Staff
A.J. Rahn Greenhouses

Coleus Planting

Coleus Planting

This past week we continued our frantic pace of planting and seeding for spring. Tomatoes, herbs, and lettuces were seeded, as well as marigolds. Hanging impatiens pouches were planted in ten different solid colors, and a color mix . Impatiens baskets were also planted and hung in various houses to continue their growing cycle. Begonias, coleus, dahlias and snapdragons topped the list of other seedlings transplanted by our hard working crew. Special mention this week to our crew who place all these many trays and hanging baskets in their special growing houses. It's a back breaking, knee bending, up and down ladders kind of job, and we couldn't keep up the planting pace without their hard work!
Another warm, sunny, dry week once again kept the watering crew in their boots for most of every day. The plants are growing by leaps and bounds with all this gorgeous weather! A final disbudding of the Easter Mums was completed this past week. This process involves taking all the side flower buds off each stem of the mum plant, leaving the center bud. By doing this, the center bud develops into quite a large showy flower, creating a beautiful full plant for decorating your table.
The first of the early spring blooming perennials were brought out for sale. Many of these were planted last summer and fall as bare root, or seedlings or bulbs, and kept in greenhouses throughout the winter at just about 32F. Iberis, Bleeding Heart, Arabis, Polemonium and Forget Me Nots are all out and blooming now. Pansies and Violas are literally flying out the door, so we're also kept busy stocking the tables to keep up with the demand.

By: The Production Crew
A.J. Rahn's Greenhouses

Geranium Planting

Planting Geraniums

This week started the march to Easter among the many tasks at hand. Potted bulb plants that were planted in early December (tulips, daffodils, hyacinths) were brought out of cold storage to begin forcing them for Easter week bloom. Azaleas as well were put in a warmer greenhouse to force for Easter.
Hanging baskets of cherry tomatoes were planted, and herb seeds planted a week ago are now beginning to sprout.
Debudding Geraniums that are just starting their growth spurt was done so the plants have a chance to put more effort into foliage and root growth for a stronger, healthier plant. There will be ample time for blooms to set later. Pictured above are a few of the thousands of Geraniums being planted in 4 1/2" pots. Scented Geraniums were also being planted for an extra bonus in your garden or window boxes, providing lovely scents to accompany the beautiful blooms. Citronella scented Geraniums even provide mosquito deterrence around your deck or patio!
Since most of the week was relatively warm and sunny, watering and fertilizing became top priority for a major part of each day.

By: The Production Staff
A.J. Rahn Greenhouses

Shamrocks

Shamrocks
Oxalis

Oxalis are best known as Shamrocks, the easily recognized symbol of Irish pride. Surprisingly enough, they are actually natives of the mountain areas of South America and Mexico. Some of the more hardy varieties have became popular in Northern Europe and North America.
This plant is grown from tiny bulbs or tubers. They prefer a bright sunny windowsill and like to dry out slightly between waterings. When they get too hot in the summer they can go dormant. They may also go dormant if neglected and allowed to dry out. Once the dead growth is cut away and watering is resumed, they will sprout new leaves in a few days.
Oxalis are generally problem free and most insects will not bother them. Given bright sun, moderate water, fertilizer every other week or so, and well drained soil, they should be an easy, enjoyable plant whether it's St. Patrick's Day or not.

By: Gayla Parker
Gardening Consultant at A.J. Rahn Greenhouses

Rex Begonia Vine

Rex Begonia Vine
Cissus discolor

The Rex Begonia Vine has beautiful oval shaped leaves that are a dark green with frosty silver patterns on the upper side, and a deep burgundy red on the underside.
As a houseplant, it prefers a brightly lit room. After danger of frost, it loves to be outdoors in part to full shade with warm temperatures and high humidity.
The Rex Begonia Vine is a tendril (climbing) grower and can be used on a trellis or in a hanging basket. During the warmer growing season fertilize with houseplant fertilizer according to directions.
Calico advises: this plant would make a beautiful, fascinating addition to your summer shade garden!

By: Michelle Lynn
Gardening Expert at A.J. Rahn Greenhouses

Maidenhair Fern

Maidenhair Fern
Adiantum raddianum

Maidenhair ferns are one of the most airy, delicate looking houseplants popular today. Their clouds of wedge shaped, vivid green leaflets are born on slender, graceful black stems. They make wonderful terrarium plants as they thrive in high humidity. If not used in a terrarium, a moist pebble tray under the pot will suffice. Placed in indirect light on a north facing windowsill, or in a room with bright indirect light, they will bring years of enjoyment. Water daily with filtered water, or water that has set overnight to dissipate the chemicals. Fertilize biweekly with half strength houseplant fertilizer, less frequently in winter months. When repotting, use standard soil mix with high peat content.
If the soil is kept moist and the humidity high, this beautiful plant will flourish and bring an air of elegance to your houseplant collection.

By: Sandy Weinkam
Gardening Expert at A.J. Rahn Greenhouses

New Guinea Impatiens

New Guinea Impatiens

This past week was once again a planting frenzy, as we transplanted a whole greenhouse full of New Guinea Impatiens.
Herbs of about 30 varieties were seeded or transplanted for spring.
Hanging baskets of Geraniums, Petunias, and Boston fern were planted, priced, then hung in greenhouses to complete growing for spring sales.
New cuttings of Plumbago, Ivy, and other vining filler plants were taken and placed in a rooting medium to develop a root system before being transplanted about 4 weeks later into 4" pots.
The first tomato seedlings were transplanted into 4 1/2' pots for early container planting or planting in a protected area before May 15th, for those who just can't wait to get started!
Soils are made up many times a day in different mixes to achieve optimum plant health. It may come as a surprise to many to realize different plants have different soil needs.
Two more greenhouses were cleaned and sterilized for the asparagus, rhubarb, strawberries and all the herbs and other vegetables being planted this week.
The roses planted two weeks ago are budding out nicely, and with sun and a little warmer weather, they will be bursting out!

By: The Production Staff at A.J. Rahn Greenhouses

Behind the Scenes Feb. 26, 2010

Newly Potted Roses

This week we are starting a new section on our blog to give you a peek at what goes on behind the scenes, sometimes months before the plant ever appears for sale. Hopefully, this will bring everyone to a deeper appreciation of what goes into getting seeds ,cuttings, bare root plants, and plugs to quality finished plant, and how long it may take to get them there.
Some of the tasks accomplished this past week included; seeding of some spring vegetables, including eggplant; planting million bell hanging baskets with plants that were started weeks ago; taking ivy and vinca vine cuttings to be rooted and grown for selling in spring; and completing the planting of over 400 varieties of perennials.
Greenhouses that have been closed over the past few months are being cleaned and sterilized in preparation for all the annuals being planted for spring. Speaking of planting, you wouldn't believe all the pots we use on a daily basis, not to mention soil and fertilizer!
This week concluded with final planting of approximately 2100 bare root roses from Jackson & Perkins and Weeks, including four of the newest varieties: Pumpkin Patch, Sedona, Ch-Ching, and Monkey Business. This represents only four of 125 varieties we will have available. We will also have tree standard roses in 2' & 3' sizes, as well as a double ball topiary standard.

By: The Production Staff
Planters and Growers at A.J. Rahn Greenhouses

Houseplant Topiaries

Topiaries

Topiaries were first created for outdoor use. However the concept of a living sculpture is also a popular way to grow and display several types of indoor houseplants and tender herbs.
Ivy is probably the houseplant most commonly used as an indoor topiary. Ivies grown indoors prefer to be kept in a bright light location with moderate temperatures. It is beneficial to rotate them to the light source to maintain a full and balanced appearance.
Dry warm air caused by heating and cooling systems can rob topiaries of some of their moisture. It is helpful to treat Ivy topiaries with a monthly shower of water or a mild solution ( 1 tsp. to 1 gal.) of Dawn or Joy dish detergent. This rinses the dust off the foliage, thereby discouraging spider mites.
Allow the Ivy topiary to dry out between waterings, then drench the plant thoroughly. Fertilize every other watering with half strength houseplant fertilizer.
The shape of topiaries can be maintained by pruning or winding the tendrils around the topiary frame. Remove any dead leaves or dying stems that may appear.
Other houseplants can also be used to create a living topiary. Angel Vine and Jasmine have a more delicate leaf shape and create a lovely appearance. The herb Rosemary is frequently displayed in topiary form and gives the added pleasure of it's wonderful fragrance.

By Gayla Parker
Gardening Expert at A.J. Rahn Greenhouses

Cineraria
Senecio cruentus

Cineraria is a popular florist plant that makes a lovely centerpiece for your table. Available February through March, it's masses of daisy like flowers in a broad spectrum of colors will add splash and cheer to mid winter grays outside. The flowers rise above beautiful foliage, some varieties of which have colorful undersides to their large leaves as well. Cineraria do not like to be in direct sun, but a well lit location is ideal.
The soil should be kept moist, but not soaking wet. These beauties prefer cool temperatures: 60-65F during the day, 55-60F at night. Treat this plant as an annual and discard after it is finished blooming. It should bloom for several weeks once it is fully open though, much longer than a fresh bouquet of flowers!

By Michelle Lynn
Gardening Expert at A.J. Rahn Greenhouses

Primrose

Primrose
Primula acaulis

Tired of winter's cold gray weather? The perfect pick me up is to stop in the greenhouse for a few of these brightly colored, sweetly fragrant plants. Their color palette ranges from white to red, to shades of yellow, pink, and deep purple. Large numbers of these bright beautiful blossoms are clustered in the center of the leaves' rosette pattern, creating a nestled bed of color in the midst of dark green paddle shaped foliage.
Primrose prefer cooler temperatures (55-60F), but will do quite well in your house if you can stay around 67-68 degrees. An east or west facing window sill where they will receive lots of bright indirect light and perhaps cooler temperatures would be best. These plants want to be moist but not wet all the time, so water only when the soil surface feels slightly dry to the touch. Remove dead flowers by pinching them off near their base, and fertilize according to directions on your fertilizer package. In spring after danger of frost, you can plant these perennials outdoors in semi shade in well drained soil. With some winter protection, they will be up again in spring with the crocuses, once again delighting you with riots of color to chase away the winter blahs.

By Sandy Weinkam
Gardening Expert at A.J. Rahn Greenhouses

Gardenia

Gardenia

It is hard to find a more beautiful and fragrant plant than the Gardenia. However, it can be a temperamental beauty.
The Gardenia needs bright light but not direct sunlight. It prefers cool temperatures at night (55-65F), and slightly warmer during the day, and also requires a humid environment which can be accomplished by standing the pot on a large tray of pebbles which are kept wet at all times. Keep the soil evenly moist and water with tepid or lukewarm water. When fertilizing, use an acid based fertilizer.
The Gardenia can be moved outside in late spring when there is no longer a chance of frost. A north or northwest location out of direct sunlight is ideal. Remember to keep the soil moist, and this plant will bring you many years of beauty and fragrance.

By Gayla Parker
Gardening Expert at A.J. Rahn Greenhouses

Orchid Cactus

Orchid Cactus
Epiphyllum

Orchid Cactus are very unique plants. Their native habitat is the jungles of south and central America and Mexico, but they will perform well as indoor houseplants if given some extra humidity. Humidity can be enhanced by placing a pebble tray with water in the pebbles under the plant pot. Their very fragrant flowers come in nearly every color except blue and are typically five inches across. They bloom spring through early summer when temperatures are warmer and daylight hours are longer. They need room to grow, at least a space three feet wide, that receives medium light. Morning or late afternoon sun, but no hot direct mid afternoon sun are the ideal lighting conditions. They prefer a rich well drained soil, and require very little fertilizer, preferably in early spring and then once more after blooming. Because their thick fleshy stems retain water well, they really only need to be watered once or twice a week spring through fall, then very sparingly during winter.If you supply your Orchid Cactus with these growing conditions, you will be rewarded with beautiful fragrant flowers year after year.


By Michelle Lynn
Gardening Expert at A.J. Rahn Greenhouses