Naturally-Shaped Christmas Trees

Larry Arendt, owner of Arendt’s Christmas Tree Farm, planted Noble and Frasier firs a few years back as part of his retirement strategy. He decided he wanted to let the trees grow in their natural shape; no trimming allows the naturally wide-spaced branching to show off all those beautiful ornaments you are collecting. He also decided not to spray his field of trees. Benefits of this practice include grass growing between the rows to minimize mud on the trees (and your shoes and knees). Most all the trees are beautifully shaped just as nature intended. For the past three years, I found the perfect tree in minutes instead of the typical longer-than-a-few-minutes traipsing around a u-cut field because I’m picky about my Christmas trees.

Arendt’s Christmas Tree Farm is easy to find. Exit off I-5 at the Aurora exit (#278) and turn west (right if you are coming from Portland; left under the overpass if you’re coming from Salem). Turn left on Case Rd.; the tree farm will be on your right. Address is 20757 Case Rd., Aurora, Ore. Cell phone is 503.318.7977. Cost is $25 a tree regardless of size. Larry says “they’re looking great!” They have saws you can borrow, too.

More colorful, or just my imagination?

This year in Portland, Ore., the official first frost occurred on October 25. Leaf color depends on weather, so were conditions this year better than many for producing the stunning fall color I’ve seen around my neighborhood? Barney, my adorable golden retriever, was very patient with me while I snapped photo after photo in the past few weeks of the brilliant color of the maples and oaks.

Interestingly, one website suggests that fall color is an exception to the rule that most things in nature are the way they are for a purpose. Brilliant fall leaf color, on the other hand, doesn’t help a plant to survive; it’s merely “part of an orderly shutting-down of plants for the winter. The compounds that remain in leaves and create the attractive colours are the ‘left-overs’ that the plant could not resorb or recycle. Unlike the familiar animal signs of autumn, such as squirrels burying nuts or flocks of geese heading south, which are clearly beneficial to [the survival of] those species, the spectacular scenery afforded by the death of leaves appears not to have any benefit to the plants. The answer to the question of why fall colours are so beautiful lies more in the eyes of the beholders, us, than in some grand scheme of nature. Fall colours are a wondrous coincidence!”

While I adore and appreciate the color, I often forget the fascinating science behind it. Read on for the scientific version of fall color (thanks to information found on www.naturenorth.com):

Deciduous plants, those that drop their leaves for winter, allow their leaves to die in an orderly fashion, a process called ‘leaf senescence’. These photosynthetic factories are shut down and much of the water and nutrients within are reclaimed by the plant, and transported to the root system for storage.

It is during leaf senescence, the shutting-down and recycling of the leaf's contents, that we witness fall colours. One of the first events in senescence is that production of photosynthetic pigments stops. As the existing chlorophyll in the leaf breaks down, it is not replaced. As a result, the green colouring begins to fade. The always-present carotenoid pigments, which break down more slowly, are now revealed. The green of chlorophyll gives way to the yellow of carotenoids. For plants whose leaves turn yellow in the fall, the explanation of fall colours is just that simple.

For plants that produce darker orange, reddish or purplish colours the story is more complex. During senescence these plants are producing anthocyanins, a red pigment, inside the leaves. Sugars, which continue to be produced until all the chlorophyll breaks down, can become trapped in the leaves as the transport system that would normally move them out of the leaves shuts down. In the presence of sugars a group of already-present, colourless compounds called flavonols are converted to anthocyanins by the action of sunlight. Leaves which contain roughly equal amounts of yellow carotenoids and red anthocyanins can appear bright orange. If the anthocyanins predominate the leaf will appear bright red. Because sunlight must hit a leaf in order to produce anthocyanins and there is little movement of this pigment within the leaf, shaded or partially shaded leaves may develop unique patterns.

As senescence progresses further even the carotenoids and anthocyanins decay and their colour fades. By the time the leaf falls, or shortly thereafter, the once vibrant colours will have faded to a dull tan or light brown. As with the other colours there are various compounds in leaves that act as brown pigments. One of the most common is tannin. Tannin and other such compounds are among the slowest to decay, giving colour to leaves even after they have fallen. Plants whose leaves turn brown before they fall often contain large concentrations of such compounds.

Cool nights with sunny days in early autumn makes for good anthocyanin production. Low, but not freezing temperatures, help slow the movement of sugars out of the leaves at night. Sunny days help produce sugars initially, then drive the process that converts sugars and flavonols into anthocyanins. A cloudy autumn with warm nights will not produce good fall colours, at least not for plants that develop red colouring.

Weather can affect fall colours in other ways, too. An early frost can help to break down chlorophyll more rapidly and bring about a more coordinated fall colour display. If the frost affects all the plants in a given region they will tend to become more synchronized in the development of their colours.

Spirea japonica 'Shirobana'

Ashley Gangle, Pleasant Hill Nursery

Photo courtesy of Pleasant Hill Nursery

'Shirobana' spirea is most often recognized for its flower color. Well, I should say flower "colors," as this plant produces different colored flower clusters on the same plant. Some are deep pink and some are white. However, after seeing this plant in the fall, it's clear that its contribution to the landscape doesn't end with the summer blooms. Bright red, orange, and burgundy foliage stands out in the fall landscape. In the spring, you will notice nice green foliage tinged with burgundy.

Photo courtesy of Pleasant Hill Nursery

'Shirobana' grows best in full sun, but it will tolerate light shade. It is a tough and carefree plant, tolerating less than ideal soil conditions: 'Shirobana' and other Spirea japonica like heavy clay soils. When planted together, they make a nice, informal hedge that has quite an impact when in bloom. 'Shirobana' grows to 3 feet high and wide. If you'd like it to stay smaller or to revitalize an older shrub, cut it to the ground after it is done blooming.

Located in Pleasant Hill near Eugene, Pleasant Hill Nursery is a wholesale nursery that also sells retail. They offer 'Shirobana' in #3 pots. Find them on the OAN's online Retail Nursery Guide, at http://www.pleasanthillnursery.com/ or by calling 1-888-373-0318.

Garden Events and Classes

EVENTS

November 13, 1-4pm - Pre-Holiday Taste Fest, Red Ridge Farms (Dayton)—This is a first-ever chance to sample a delicious assortment of appetizers featuring our gourmet food products, while sipping Durant Vineyard wines. Mingle and munch through themed food tables showcasing tastes from sweet to savory. Cost: $10/person; includes a flight of three Durant Vineyard wines, abundant appetizers, recipes and 10% off all additional purchases made the day of event.

November 18-20 - Olio Nuovo Festa (New Olive Oil Festival), Red Ridge Farms (Dayton)—The weekend events at the Oregon Olive Mill focus on the newly pressed olive oil and give guests a chance to see first-hand how olive oil is made on the imported Italian olive press. Guests will also enjoy tastes of a variety of freshly-pressed olive oils.

November 19, 8am-5pm – Holiday Greens & Wreath Workshop and Fundraiser, Rosemound Farm (Hillsboro)—Have fun and shop for wreaths and garlands, participate in a wreath-making class ($30 fee), or take part in Garden Bootcamp and learn about winterizing your perennials, plant divisions, and cutting holiday foliage from your garden ($65 fee). The barn will be festive, refreshments will be served and 10% of sales will be donated to “Heat for the Holiday,” providing PGE gift cards to local families in need of heat this winter. For more information contact Jenna Bayer at 503.468.2103 at Rosemound Farm, 13395 SW River Rd., Hillsboro, Ore. Register online.

November 19, 11am-3pm – Holiday Open House, Tsugawa's Nursery (Woodland, Wash.)—Come in to see holiday decorations, poinsettia, wreaths, centerpieces, greens, and workshops that will give you lots of great ideas for holiday gift giving: Tabletop Fountains (11am), Wreaths & Centerpieces (1pm, Cost: $25, includes materials), Bonsai Workshop (3pm, Cost: $35, includes materials). At Tsugawa Nursery, they love the holidays and enjoy bringing a season filled with natural beauty to you. Register online.

December 3 – Ladies Day Out, Garland Nursery (Corvallis)—Grab a girlfriend and escape the holiday chaos for a day filled with girly delights including wine sipping, wreath decorating demonstration, centerpiece making ($20/centerpiece), lunch ($12, reservations required by Nov. 28), fashion show and special savings! 10% of sales (excluding wine and food) go to benefit Samaritan Cancer Resource Center to provide bras for cancer patients.

December 3 (Eastside location), Dec. 9 (Lake Oswego), and Dec. 10 (Cedar Hills), 10am-5pm - Reindeer Magic, Dennis' 7 Dees—Santa's reindeer help kick off the holiday season. Enjoy apple cider, cookies, holiday music and wine tasting from Hip Chicks Do Wine while visiting the live reindeer. Frosty will bring his pal and children can have a free picture taken with the reindeer.

CLASSES (unless noted, classes are free)

November 12, 1-2:30pm - Fruit Trees: Natural Insect & Disease Prevention, Portland Nursery (Division Street)—Hoping for a more bountiful fruit harvest next year? Winter is the time to give your fruit trees some love! Join John Lott of Fruitful Labor to learn how dormant season prevention of common insects and diseases can increase the health and vigor of your trees. John will discuss basic winter maintenance, various natural and non-toxic treatments, and introduce you to some of the fruit trees' biggest foes. Register online.

November 13, 1pm – Winterizing Your Garden, Portland Nursery (Stark Street)—Before you go inside to hibernate, it's time to do a few last autumn and winter projects to put your garden to bed so it wakes up happy and healthy in spring. Learn about pruning, mulching, spraying and other year-end maintenance tasks that can make spring 2012 brighter and more fun! Register online.

November 19, 1-3pm – Winter Container Arrangements, Garden Fever!—Enjoy a hands-on class with Linda Beutler as she shares tips from her most recent book Garden To Vase. She'll show you the steps to create a winter container arrangement with trimmings from the garden. Linda's techniques are easy, inspirational and your arrangement will last all season long. Cost: $40/person, includes container and materials. Registration required by calling 503-287-3200.

November 19, 2-4pm – Ikebana Class, Dennis' 7 Dees (Eastside location)— This is a "make 'n take" class in which you will make a beautiful fall arrangement. Ikebana is an Asian style of floral arranging that emphasizes all areas of the plant, such as stems and leaves, as well as the bloom. It draws emphasis toward shape, lines and form. Cost: $20 covers all the supplies (vessel, pin frog, and fresh flowers). Space available; contact Linda Harrison to reserve your spot in the class at 503.297.1058.

November 20
• 10-11:30am – Bonsai Forests 101, Portland Nursery (Division Street)—Learn how to create a miniature forest throught the art of bonsai. George Bowman will discuss deciduous, conifer, evergreen and mixed forest styles, and demonstrate how to make a bonsai forest. He will also cover the basics of plant selection, placement, and general bonsai care, giving you the tools and knowledge you need to create your own. Register online.
• 1pm - Thanksgiving Centerpieces with Francoise Weeks, The Garden Corner (Tualatin)—Looking for something unusual to highlight your Thanksgiving table? Spend the afternoon with Francoise Weeks, an amazing European floral designer, creating a unique and unusual arrangement that will have your guests oohing and ahhing. Cost: $45, includes materials. To register call 503-885-1934.
• 1pm – Medicinal Herbs for Winter Health, Portland Nursery (Division Street)—There are lots of plants in your garden and your kitchen that can be used to boost immunity or ward off the sniffles as the seasons shift. Join Missy Rohs, a community herbalist and avid gardener, as she walks you through how to use some of your favorite plants, including rosemary, sage, garlic and more as home remedies. Register online.

November 26
• 11am – Winter Birding, Tsugawa's Nursery (Woodland, Wash.)—Feeding the birds is a rewarding and enjoyable hobby in the midst of chillywinter weather. Join Dale Combs for some easy winter bird feeding tips that can help both novice and experienced backyard birders make the most of their feeders during the coldest months of the year. Register online.
• 11am – Kids' Craft: Making Pine Cone Bird Feeders, Portland Nursery (Stark Street)— This fun and easy project for kids will lead to more enjoyment later in the season as the winter birds flock to your backyard. Limit 10 children, must be accompanied by an adult. Register online.

November 27, 1pm – Make Your Own Holiday Wreath, Portland Nursery (Division Street)—Create your own fresh and beautiful wreath for the holidays. You will be guided through the process of making a wreath that is unique to you and guaranteed to bring holiday cheer into your home! Feel free to bring your own special decorative elements to add to your wreath. Cost: $30 (pay at register on day of class). All materials included. Please bring gloves and hand pruners, if you have them. Class limited to 12. Register online.

December 3 & 4, starts at 10am – Winter Wreath Creations, Dancing Oaks (Monmouth)—Create your own holiday wreaths from the bountiful selection of evergreens and unusual selection of berries and twigs at Dancing Oaks. You will be able to create as much as you want from our amazing array of materials. The price for two wreaths is $45 with all materials provided. Tea and treats provided. Registration required by calling 503-838-6058; class size is limited to 12.

December 3
• 1pm – Wonderful Winter Plants, Al's Garden Centers (Woodburn store)—Learn about some great plants for winter that will add color, structure or texture in your yard during the winter months.
• 1pm – Build a Holiday Centerpiece Workshop, Al's Garden Centers (Sherwood)—You'll learn how to strip fresh greens, preserve them and create a holiday centerpiece. Step by step instructions on how to add ornaments and candles to create a customized centerpiece perfect for your holiday table. Registration is required. Cost: Small centerpiece, $20.00; large centerpiece, $30.00; includes materials to make one centerpiece. Registration is required by calling 503-726-1162; space is limited to 25 people.
• 1pm – Winter Containers, Tsugawa's Nursery (Woodland, Wash.)—During the cold months of winter, when the setting is bleak and the sky is gray, winter containers can cheer up the soul and provide a dash of color to the landscape. Many gardeners give up on their potted containers in the fall and winter, but that is such a waste because winter is when color, texture and form are at their most vital. Come learn to create vibrant winter containers for your landscapes. Register online.

December 11, 1pm - Festive Christmas Wreaths, The Garden Corner (Tualatin)—Floral designer Francoise Weeks will demonstrate how to create a festive Christmas wreath to display during the holidays. You will leave with a creation that is sure to deck your doors with falalala fabulous fun! Cost: $45 to cover materials. To register call 503-885-1934.

Think Global. Garden Local.

Café Terrace at Night by
Vincent Van Gogh

Garden styles from around the world will be interpreted in the showcase gardens at Yard, Garden & Patio Show presented by Dennis' 7 Dees Landscaping & Garden Centers. Show dates are Feb. 17-19, 2012 at the Oregon Convention Center. We'll tease you with descriptions in the coming months, starting with Le Confort Francaise (French Comfort), by L Meyer Design and JP Stone Contractors.

Luminescent foliage sparkling with lights creates a quaintly European courtyard complete with a rustic yet up-to-date outdoor eating/cooking area reminiscent of the café in Arles, the inspiration for Van Gogh's 'Café Terrace at Night.' Deeply saturated colors accent a purely sensual garden. This garden will exhibit a bit of French flavor mingled with Pacific Northwest plants and materials. A cobblestone patio replicates the streets of France and an old world-styled kitchen will make you believe you're enjoying the aromas of a French patisserie.

Join us, won't you?

A Top 10 Perennial!

When asked at the 2011 Gardenpalooza (April) to select one of her favorite plants, Pat Thompson, owner of Secret Garden Growers, chose Tulbaghia violacea 'Silver Lace'. The specialty retail nursery is known for its rare and unusual plants that do well in the Northwest. I couldn’t resist and now have one planted in a container near my front door. The blossoms look as fresh today as they did when they started blooming a few weeks ago (see photo) and the leaves still look great, too.

Trees with Character

Contorted trees and trees with character are a distinguishing feature of formal Chinese gardens. The Lan Su Chinese Garden in Portland, Oregon, is no exception. John Stone was the landscape installation project manager for the garden 12-13 years ago (the garden opened in 2000). He worked closely with the garden’s landscape designer and architect to find mature plants full of character.

They wanted mature trees so that the garden made a favorable impression. Instead of the perfectly shaped trees that the U.S. market demands, they wanted trees that had a story to tell. Some trees they found serendipitously, others were purposefully sought after. John invited me to the garden in late October to share some of the stories of the trees that populate the garden. In addition to the stories he tells in the video, there were a few others, not necessarily about trees, that I wanted to share.

• The beautiful tiles that cover the building roofs are made by bending malleable clay over the leg of an artisan. The men doing this work have a certain leg size to ensure consistent dimensions. Every fifth tile is secured with a copper wire for earthquake protection. • The Bamboo found in the garden were donated by Ned Jaquith, Bamboo Garden, the hardy bananas by Burl Mostul, Rare Plant Research, and the Crepe Myrtles by Lucille Whitman, Whitman Farms.

• The Three Friends of Winter can be found at the entrance to the garden: Pinus, Prunus mume (plum blossoms) and Bamboo. The stone work in the scholar’s garden enclave is a mosaic of the plum blossoms on cracked ice because they dare to bloom in winter.