The Monge Lilac

Sheliah of Skillin's checks in:

"Christmas is over so it's time to start thinking about spring! Nothing says spring like Lilacs! If you want a beautiful dark purple lilac in your garden I would recommend Monge. I got this beautiful variety at Skillin's a few years ago. It has grown fast and has been problem free. The secret to beautiful lilacs is full sun, a little lime, and a bag of manure every year."
I agree Sheliah. I will say that I sprayed my lilacs monthly this year with Messenger and was very pleased at the LACK of powdery mildew in what was a very wet and humid year. That being said full sun and a yearly liming is a must. I like the manure idea; I end up using Plant Tone by Espoma or Plant Booster Plus by Organica because of the organic matter in the fertilizers (but manure gets you there as well!)
Thanks Sheliah for the great thoughts and terrific Lilac photo!
Mike Skillin
Skillin's Greenhouses
December 31, 2008

Azaleas!!

Hello again!







Before we get onto our subject today--flowering indoor azaleas--let me mention a couple of items.

First, I would like to wish you a sincere Happy Holidays message--we hope your Christmas time was restful and well spent with family and friends. Now onto the New Year!

While we are journeying toward 2009, let me say that I just put a healthy dose of water into my Christmas tree stand earlier today. Watering your tree daily is critical to your Christmas tree looking great (and also staying fresh and fire resistant into the New Year.)

We have many items on sale at Skillin's over the holidays. All Christmas items are 50% off (we still have some awesome ornaments!). Bird feeders, food and supplies are 25% off for the time being. Tools including newly arriving snow shovels are 25% off. Webkinz are 25% for the time being. We grew the best poinsettias and azaleas this year and what is left is 50% off. These plants make awesome house plants for the winter.



The florist azalea is one of my very favorite house plants. The flowers are gorgeous almost all winter long and then the plant rewards as a great house plant for the remainder of the year until the plant is ready to flower again.



Many years ago Jim Crockett the founder of Crocketts Indoor Garden wrote about the allure and care of the florist azalea:



"If I had to write a one-sentence summary of azalea care, it would be this: keep them cool, keep them moist, and keep them after they flower. An English gardening magazine once published a photograph of a 150 year old azalea that had been growing in the same pot, regularly fed and trimmed, of course, for 50 years. In Japan, where most evergreen azaleas are native, gardeners regard an azalea of that age as a mere stripling!



The kinds of so-called florist azaleas grown as houseplants are flowering shrubs with small evergreen leaves; their flowers, single or double, are usually white or a shade of pink or red. Yellow and orange azaleas are for the most part deciduous and are generally grown in outdoor gardens. Normally florist azaleas bloom in the spring but plant specialists by altering temperatures are able to bring them into flower at any time of the year. Because of the great demand for flowering plants during the fall, winter, and early spring, the bulk of azaleas are brought into bloom and sold in flower shops between November and May. Given the right care through their rest period, they then resume their normal spring-blossoming schedule. It's the after-blooming care that I like to emphasize because it's entirely possible for the home gardener to keep azaleas growing for many years with an ever-increasing abundance of flowers.



Most people buy azaleas as bud-and-bloom-laden plants just as they are about to flower. While they are in bloom, and in their vegetative period as well, they need a cool, brightly lit spot; an east-facing window with night temperatures about 50 degrees is ideal. The cooler they can be kept the healthier they will be and the longer the flowers will last. (If they are kept in too warm a spot, their growth becomes etoliated, meaning that the leaves are widely spaced along slender stems.) It is vital that the planting medium be kept constantly moist all year.

The critical time in an azalea's life is after the flowers fade. Too many gardeners seem to think that the plants are worthless at this point, and put them out with the Thursday trash. But as I've said, if they're properly attended they'll last for years and even improve with age. The first step in after-flowering care is housekeeping. I go over an entire plant and snip off the dead blossoms and the seed pods. Then I trim back any branches that stray beyond the plant's natural shape, making my cuts down inside the foliage so the cuts do not show. Then I repot the plant into a 1-inch larger pot...(we recommend Coast of Maine's Bar Harbor Blend potting soil for a top quality all natural and affordable potting medium). (We also recommend breaking up some all natural Plant Nutrition Tablets by Organica--also sold right here at Skillin's--for a good long-term fertilizer for your azalea).

Once an azalea's flowers fade, the plant begins a handsome new stage of vegetative growth, and it's then that the foliage takes its turn at showing off. Unlike many flowering plants, the azalea is a beautiful flowering plant during the months when its not in flower.) When this new growth reaches maturity, but before it gets hard and woody, new plants can easily be started from 2 to 3 inch cuttings taken from the tips of the stems.

When summer approaches (can't wait for that!) and the danger of frost is past, I move my azaleas, pots and all, outside to a shady spot....I always try to keep them near a water source to reduce the effort involved in keeping the constantly moist during the blistering days of summer. In the fall when a frost threatens I bring them in and set them in a cool bright windowsill. They're at their best when the nights are in the 40 to 55 degree range and the days no warmer than 68....

Invasions of spider mites are sometimes a problem. The answer to this is good hygiene. Whether the plants are indoors or out, they should be washed weekly, aiming a good strong spray all around the foliage, especially on the undersides of the leaves....

Finally, it's normal for all plants to drop their old leaves, but when they drop the new ones, too, it means trouble. Usually the problem is too little moisture, but too little light will have the same effect. Keep the soil beneath the plants moist at all times, and if this doesn't seem to help, move them to a brighter spot."

Mike Skillin
Skillin's Greenhouses
December 30, 2008

Unexpected Gifts by KCB

KCB is a professional gardener and friend who does wonderful work in the Greater Portland area. KCB is also an accredited Master Gardener by the Cooperative Extension Service and we are proud to tell you that KCB rules as the 2008 Maine Master Gardener of the Year. And we are honored to have KCB as part of our Skillin's Garden Log family.

While I write about many aspects of my life there is much I do not reveal. I do not have a family. I joke that I am an orphan. My parents were older than what was normal for at the time I came into this world. I had sisters that were more like aunts than sibs. It is said; only the good die young as all my cousins proved to be. I remain.

Earlier this year I wrote of the relinquishing of my dog. For 10 months Kayla, a rescued senior Golden Retriever began her life south of the Mason-Dixon Line. For 10 months she held my soul and very being hostage

She had won my heart before I even met her for the first time that unseasonable hot September morning. Kayla may have looked like a Golden Retriever yet possessed the aloofness not usually associated with her breed. I loved her and worked with her as much as I could.

Early on in our relationship I introduced her to the tennis ball only to find her totally disinterested, another less than ‘golden’ norm. Nevertheless the hard rubbery balls that are manufactured and marketed locally were soon a staple. Kayla accepting me was another matter. I found myself performing actions such as ‘holding’ doggy treats in my teeth to get her to look at me and hand feeding her from her dinner bowl to gain her trust. The animal behaviorist was #2 on my speed dial and my right hand thumb found its way to that key without even a glance. Animal lovers are crazy. Not unlike gardeners who too take their passion to extremes.

This writing is not about loss or sadness but of finding family in unexpected places, unforeseen gifts.

Christmas is the season of gifting. Many of us have had moments, perhaps months and years of monetary mayhem. Some are experiencing this dilemma for the first time.
At a very early age I learned that the appreciative look on the recipients face could be the greatest gift of all. It continues to be the thought behind the thing.

Last Christmas I received one of the most cherished gifts of all.


Christmas Day 2007 was a day made for memories. Sky of crystal blue, a fresh blanket of snow not yet tarnished by the pollution that is life covered the earth. The sun was gold and the temperatures a balmy high 30’s. A perfect day for a walk.

Winslow Park Camp Ground in So. Freeport was the destination of dog and girl. Our outing included the game of fetch with her latest neon pink ball. Her catch was right on and the game of returning the ball became part of our routine.

Wide open spaces and potential interaction with other humans and dogs would allow to test some of our most painstaking tasks. Kayla heeding to voice commands while off the leash would be a priority. At one point she decided to take her ball and go her separate way. Calling her did no good and the look on her face dared me to take one step for surely she would run in the other direction.

I recalled the words of the animal behaviorist to ignore Kayla when she misbehaved. Not to reward with attention but to simply leave her alone. Walking away I struggled to face forward. I made my way to a picnic table and decided to sit atop to take in the bay that surrounded the park. My radar was turned up a few notches in order to stay connected with my naughty Golden and it took all my strength not to turn in her direction.

The air was crisp enough to cause the nostrils to stick together. Other outdoor types snow- shoed, or frolicked, many with dogs of their own. As the sun slipped in the west it's rays bounced off the crusting snow and the land appeared to be glittered in silver.

In haling deeply, the sound of my own breath was suddenly interrupted. ‘Crunch, crunch, crunch’ came from behind. I focused on the ripples on the bay and the darkening sky while my heart hoped. Out of the corner of my eye I detected the russet coat of a Golden. Soon two paws touched upon the very bench seat that held my feet. Soon these same paws struggled to pull her weight to the top of the table on which I sat. The ball was held firmly in her mouth as she struggled to join me on my wooden stage. With one final effort she soon was at my side. More gently than even I would have imagined, she placed the ball in my lap followed by her head. If you have ever read love in a dog’s eyes you know the look that met my own. Tears welled then trickled down my cheeks. Were her puppy dog browns filling as well? A bond was made.

Earlier this fall, I was admiring an item I spotted at a local gift shop. A dear woman who herself, could be called a gift, was also in attendance. I showed off this most unusual treasure and jokingly said ‘this so wants to go home with me’. Taking it from my hand she made her way to the check-out. Feeling uncomfortable with this gesture of generosity I protested. This is something she wanted to do. The offer itself was gift enough; nevertheless, the item now is comfortable in its, and my, new home.

At this time, I am not able to reciprocate in kind; I just want her to know how special her gift of object and her support are cherished.

Recently I received a phone call from the loving daughter of a potential client. The caller revealed that mother has always been an avid gardener yet due to health issues can no longer give it her all. Daughter wanted to give the gift of gardening services. She gently added that more than likely her mother will be at my side, not for lack of trust but for love and interest. After we spoke, I felt that I could very well be the one who would receive a gift from the very person I am being hired to help.

The best gardeners learn from the best (and worst) of what the world has to offer. There is nothing like being open the wisdom and workings of those who were before. The gift of one’s life experiences. Don’t ever hesitate to share.

Thank you all for the gift of your reading………………..

KCB for Skillin's Greenhouses
December 24, 2008

The Gentle Storm

Kind friend Dale Lincoln of Perry Maine checks in from Zephyrhills FL with his thoughts for all of us in Maine who have just "weathered the storm".

Dale writes:

"Hi Mike and All:

Hope the ice storm was easy on you all. Son Dale in Saco said he was without electric power for about 15 hours.

Attached is one of my writings after Maine's giant Ice storm in 1998.

Wishing you all the best"

Now....The Gentle Storm by Dale Lincoln

The wind didn't blow hard, and the rain didn't pour.
The snow didn't pile above the top of the kitchen door
There wasn't any resemblance to a tornado or hurricane,
It was just a little winter storm for the entire State of Maine.

On that cloudy January day, that some folks would call nice,
A gentle rain from heaven started turning into ice.
It stuck upon utility poles, and all of the forest trees,
Maine became a giant popsicle, in a mold about to freeze!

The electric wires gained excessive weight, which wasn't any joke.
The heavy tree tops bent toward ground, then many of them broke.
They fell upon the roadways, and on wires for power and light,
Nearly a million anxious people were in the dark that night.

High pressure pushed the storm away, and slowly moved it to sea.
With blue skies and a sun so bright, “Maine sparkled,” all would agree,
But beneath the beauty and glitter, people tried to find a way,
To keep their home and family safe, and warm from day to day.

Many people helped their neighbors, as dedicated light crews did their job.
There were many acts of kindness that “would make the old heart throb.”
People from away called home, and heard words ”We're doing fine,”
“And we are listening to the Voice Of Maine, FM 103.9.”

“Our wood stove is a heatin', there's swamp water for the flush”
“Many people around the State are doing worse than us.”
“We may not get the lights back on for two or three days or more,”
“But there are families at the shelter that are sleeping on the floor.”

“We have lots of candles and we cook meals, on that old propane grill,”
“Sure we're inconvenienced, but we're not feeling ill.”
“We thank The Lord for his love and care, and know He's in control,”
“We'll probably get some lights again, when the linemen “fix the pole.”
Conclusion:
“We all can feel strong and mighty when things are going right,”
“But God is Master over all, through each day and each night.”
“Hereafter when things seem good, and High Tech is in the norm,”
“Remember God almost shut down Maine, with just one gentle storm.!” .

Dale C. Lincoln
Perry, Maine
In Zephyrhills FL
December 18, 2008

Skillin's Christmas Trees are Great!

This is a nice testimonial about Skillin's Christmas trees and also the customer describes the PERFECT way to care for a Skillin's Christmas tree.

"Merry Christmas to you and a very Happy New Year. Thank you for all the e-mails with gardening hints, etc. Also I want to mention that I am getting so many compliments on my Christmas tree I bought about the Tuesday after Thanksgiving. Of course, I get compliments every year. A friend said it was a perfect tree. It is drinking lots of water which I am always pleased to see. My son-in-law cut about an inch off the bottom just before I put it up. I did have it in water right after I brought it home."

Berries, Boughs and Blessings…..by KCB

KCB is a professional gardener and friend who does wonderful work in the Greater Portland area. KCB is also an accredited Master Gardener by the Cooperative Extension Service and we are proud to tell you that KCB rules as the 2008 Maine Master Gardener of the Year. And we are honored to have KCB as part of our Skillin's Garden Log family.

Blessed are those who feel blessed. I have to pinch myself at times to see if I am truly awake. I do not want this writing to be one of those dreaded letters we receive from long lost friends and/or relatives that are mass mailed this time of year yet I do have some celebrating to do.

I have returned for a second season to the ‘Christmas Room’ of one of the areas favorite nurseries. How lucky am I to work among the scents of Balsam, pine and the sparkle of glitter tipped cones coupled with red berries?

I never tire of walking into this fragrant infused room. It is a busy place that conjures images of Santa’s Workshop complete with ‘Papa Elf’. From boughs and bows beauty is born. Among the more seasoned workers I relate more with Hermey, the reluctant dentist of ‘Rudolph’ fame.

The members of The Christmas Room have the responsibility to create magic by artistically arranging branches of balsam, wisps of white pine with punches of Winterberry. Accents of gold-tipped cedar, and juniper berries often are peppered throughout the wreaths and other arrangements. I must admit the scent of the juniper is less than desirable, nevertheless the statement made by the blue/gray berries tucked among the greens is worth the gin tinged fragrance. Miniature sprigs of rosehips create their own proclamation, as the burgundy is a perfect complimentary color to the greenery. Beware of their beauty, however, as the thorny stems tend to bite. Swags, roping and window boxes are created along side wreaths of varying sizes and materials.

For many, the season for decking the halls is a year long vocation. Christmas tree growers prune, and cultivate growth to produce perfect specimens. Tree farmers harvest to make room for more trees. There are some who prefer the more natural look of a ‘wild tree’ and find beauty among the bareness between the limbs. Less can be more to some.

Such is the case in my life.

I recently moved to a much smaller apartment. After 16 years on Munjoy Hill I have said good-bye to a neighborhood I love and know so well. 11 of my ‘hill’ years my view was that of Back Cove and Portland Skyline. Sunsets in the silhouette of Mount Washington differed each day. 5 years ago I gave up the house for an apartment that offered a spectacular view of Casco Bay. The place was large with a heating bill to match. After much soul searching I sold furniture and other ‘stuff’ that had had surrounded me for years to make a clean start. To flourish we often have to begin anew.

My new place is a cozy attic abode. The water view has been replaced by treetops. Finally a tree house all my own. A smaller Christmas tree will have I, adorned only with lights of clear, white and gold. I will accent this tree with the gold of cedar tips, tassels of white pine and perhaps tuck a cone or two among the branches.

Beauty is in the being. This season is truly a blessed thing.

KCB for Skillin's Greenhouses
December 16, 2008

A Christmas Memory: "I Looked Suspicious!"

Kind friend Dale Lincoln stops by the Skillin's Garden Log with yet another fun story that also makes us reflect...

It was Christmas Eve in Perry, Maine. Bea Blackwood, an elderly lady who lived alone on a country road in the next town ( Pembroke, Maine) was at my home for the turkey dinner. Bea was a lifetime friend and like a grandmother to our children. After my mother passed away she was my Dad’s companion until he died.

We usually had the Christmas turkey dinner on Christmas Day but that was one year we decided to have it on Christmas Eve. Bea ate a big supper. (Her favorite part of the turkey was the part that would go over the fence last.) A few minutes after supper, she became tired and went to sleep in our bedroom. Elsie and I were always busy on Christmas Eve. About 11:00 pm all of our kids went to bed.

Near midnight Bea woke up and had coffee. It was approaching 1:00 am when I started to take her home.

Soon after leaving my home I heard her say:
“Oh, the Key!” “I’m locked out, but you can get in through the kitchen window!”

When we arrived at her home Bea stayed in the warm automobile. I went to the back of her home, and lifted the window. When one of my legs was in the kitchen sink and my rear end was passing through the window, this thought went through my mind:

“If the Cops showed up right now, they wouldn’t believe my story!”

A few moments later I climbed out of the sink, shut the kitchen window, turned a light on, and opened the front door. After escorting Bea from the car to her kitchen, I wished her a Merry Christmas, then started home. A feeling of happiness and peace on earth was with me and I knew a wonderful Christmas memory had been created.

Dale C. Lincoln
Perry, Maine
In Zephyrhills FL
December 11, 2008