What’s in Bloom
Summer is in full swing and I wanted to share some pictures of lesser grown perennials for your garden. All six of these plants are native and do well in an urban setting. Most of these plants do need a little extra care the first year they are in the ground. After they become established they should thrive with only needed supplemental water during prolong drought.
Keep in mind that hoary vervain (Verbena stricta) and wild bergamot (Monarda fistulosa) are tall perennials and should be planted to the back of the garden. Royal catch fly (Silene regia) and Bush poppy-mallow (Callirhoe bushii) are middle of the garden height plants while prairie onion (Allium stellatum) and whorled milkweed (Asclepias verticillata) are shorter plants that do well in the front. All these plants do have the potential to self-seed and meander across the landscape. If you want to keep them in check dead head the flowers before seed drop. One or two whorled milkweeds should be allowed to self-seed. The plant tends act more as a hardy annual or tender perennial.
Cicada Killer Wasp
Nebraska’s largest wasp is out and about hunting cicadas. Though these gentle giants look scary however, they are harmless. Male cicada killer wasp will often buzz around the ground zooming to and from watching the entry holes to the nesting locations in hopes to mate. They fly aggressively and will often guard their space chasing out competition and people. It’s an effective tactic except when you call their bluff. Male wasp cannot sting. Female wasp can sting but they rarely do and they tend to be busy hunting and often only seen flying in and out of the nest. Both wasp have a short life and will be gone in a few weeks. Management is not needed. If you would like to read more about this insect check out Dr. Jody Greens article.
Extension Master Gardener Teaching Gardens
If you are out and about visiting the different parks in the area check out the teaching garden at Chalco Hills Recreation Area. We have two main gardens that we work from and they are a great location to learn more about rain gardens and right plant, right place.
