Wow! Nifty new welcome - UT Gardens - The University of Tennessee
Wow! Nifty new welcome - UT Gardens - The University of Tennessee
Wow! Nifty new welcome - UT Gardens - The University of Tennessee
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Board Members<br />
Nicholas Anderson<br />
Faye Beck<br />
Sandi Burdick<br />
Sherry Chobanian<br />
Mary Collins-Shepard<br />
Carolyn Crowder<br />
Christine Griffin<br />
Bunni Hood<br />
Sandra Leach<br />
Laura McFee-Adams<br />
<strong>The</strong>resa Pepin<br />
Karen Petrey<br />
Steve Row<br />
P. J. Snodgrass<br />
Jason Spence<br />
Mary Spengler<br />
editorial Board<br />
Bettie Corey<br />
Carolyn Dean<br />
Steve Row<br />
next Issue:<br />
october 1<br />
<strong>The</strong> Garden PosT<br />
Congratulations!<br />
Photo by permission <strong>of</strong> the <strong>UT</strong> Daily Beacon—Janna Rudolph, photographer<br />
A young Blooms Days visitor creates a rubbing on the<br />
Touchstone Marble Table donated by sculptor Bruce Bennett.<br />
Volume 13 no 7 september 2006<br />
Blooms Days workshop<br />
FOGPrimaryRack.indd 1 6/22/06 11:50:16 AM
From the<br />
Friends <strong>of</strong> the <strong>UT</strong> <strong>Gardens</strong>’ President<br />
<strong>The</strong>resa Pepin<br />
This <strong>new</strong>sletter issue expresses appreciation for<br />
all <strong>of</strong> the many people in the Friends and the<br />
<strong>Gardens</strong> who make it possible for us to raise<br />
critical funds for the <strong>University</strong> <strong>Gardens</strong> through<br />
the mechanism <strong>of</strong> the fundraising events<br />
that have long been our primary way to meet<br />
our commitments. This year there have been<br />
dozens <strong>of</strong> courses and sales events, Secret<br />
Garden Parties and Blooms Days ’06. Taken<br />
together, these activities have raised nearly<br />
$50,000 <strong>of</strong> net proceeds so far this year<br />
towards our commitment <strong>of</strong> $75,000 to the<br />
<strong>Gardens</strong> in 2006.<br />
Our board and committee members show<br />
impressive initiative in the very tough job <strong>of</strong><br />
taking responsibility for the success <strong>of</strong> our<br />
many events. <strong>The</strong>se occasions raise the visi-<br />
bility <strong>of</strong> our cause in the community, and they<br />
give people <strong>of</strong> all means a chance to donate—<br />
and enjoy a much greater value in return—at<br />
the level they can afford. I particularly would<br />
like to acknowledge the leadership <strong>of</strong> Faye<br />
Beck on our educational course <strong>of</strong>ferings and<br />
plant sales events, Mary Collins-Shepard<br />
on Blooms Days ’06 and Sandi Burdick on<br />
the Secret Garden Parties. I cannot list all <strong>of</strong><br />
the people on the <strong>Gardens</strong>’ staff, <strong>UT</strong> faculty,<br />
students and administrators who have made<br />
such a huge difference this year.<br />
Thank You!<br />
Highlights <strong>of</strong> Blooms Days ’06<br />
Mary Collins-Shepard<br />
What always makes Blooms Days so much fun for all <strong>of</strong><br />
us involved is not only experiencing the incredible enthusiasm<br />
<strong>of</strong> a huge group <strong>of</strong> dedicated volunteers, but<br />
also discovering that each year brings a few delightful<br />
surprises. Blooms Days ’06 was no exception.<br />
A flurry <strong>of</strong> kid-sized parasols could be seen moving<br />
about the <strong>Gardens</strong>, each uniquely decorated by young<br />
people who visited the arts and crafts area. Public horticulture<br />
students also painted larger parasols with our<br />
signature Blooms Days flower to provide additional<br />
shade in the <strong>Gardens</strong>.<br />
Children’s tent fun!<br />
Terumi Saito painting Blooms Days umbrellas<br />
Offerings in the Friends’ booth included copies <strong>of</strong><br />
Best Garden Plants for <strong>Tennessee</strong>, signed by the<br />
author, Dr. Sue Hamilton, as well as several copies<br />
<strong>of</strong> Wildflowers <strong>of</strong> <strong>Tennessee</strong>, the Ohio Valley and the<br />
Southern Appalachians donated by past president Karl<br />
Heinzman. Door prizes included bonsai donated by<br />
Aaron Harden, Harden’s Bonsai Planters. Ron Emery<br />
<strong>of</strong> Emery 5 & 10 came through for us again with a grand<br />
door prize—a teak pool box won by Brian Garton.
Fans <strong>of</strong> “<strong>The</strong> Garden Girls” radio show on WNOX were<br />
able to meet stars Sue Hamilton, Beth Babbit and<br />
Christine Jessel in person and watch a live broadcast<br />
<strong>of</strong> the show Sunday afternoon. Some even took a turn at<br />
the mike to seek answers to their gardening questions.<br />
Southern Living Magazine sent a photographer to cover<br />
the show. Look for an article featuring the “Girls” and the<br />
<strong>UT</strong> <strong>Gardens</strong> in next year’s May or June issue.<br />
<strong>The</strong> Garden Girls Radio Talk Show broadcast live from Blooms Days<br />
On the Friday evening preceding Blooms Days ’06, the<br />
inaugural Presidents’ Preview took place, in which<br />
guests from the campus and community were invited to<br />
join the Board <strong>of</strong> the Friends in thanking sponsors for<br />
their support <strong>of</strong> Blooms Days. If we’d been smart (we<br />
were too tired!), we would have gotten photos <strong>of</strong> some<br />
pretty delighted VIPs. R. B. Morris and Hector Qirko<br />
entertained guests in <strong>Gardens</strong>, which were cooled <strong>of</strong>f by<br />
a quick thunderstorm in the late afternoon.<br />
Friends’ member Jean Hess and Hanson Galleries<br />
donated “Buffalo Ridge,” a fabulous painting ( 4x 4-inch<br />
oil, acrylic, paper collage, plants and resin on canvas) by<br />
Jean that was the door prize drawing. (see art on page 4)<br />
Pool box winner Brian Garton <strong>of</strong> Oak Ridge, pictured with his mom Sharon<br />
Garton and Ron Emery <strong>of</strong> Emery 5 & 10 Bonsai winner Phillis Titko<br />
Bonny Naugher won the painting, and Dr. Alan Heilman<br />
won the second door prize—prints in the <strong>new</strong> 006<br />
release <strong>of</strong> Don Williams. (see art on page 5)<br />
Major sponsors Knoxville News Sentinel and <strong>UT</strong><br />
Federal Credit Union both received matted, enlarged<br />
prints <strong>of</strong> Dr. Heilman’s arresting photo <strong>of</strong> the <strong>Tennessee</strong><br />
Passion Flower (Passiflora incarnata) that has recently<br />
been used in the Friends’ first “Discover the Passion” full<br />
color rack card for the <strong>Gardens</strong>. We could not present<br />
Blooms Days without these two major sponsors and<br />
the many other sponsors and volunteers who make this<br />
outreach festival such a worthwhile and successful event.<br />
“On behalf <strong>of</strong> the East <strong>Tennessee</strong> Iris<br />
Society, I would like to thank you and all<br />
your colleagues for inviting us to participate<br />
in Blooms Day ’06 again this year.<br />
We had a great time and raised about 50<br />
percent more money for our club than we<br />
did last year.<br />
“As always, the staff and logistics were<br />
outstanding, and your selection <strong>of</strong> vendors<br />
was really good. (My personal favorite<br />
was the carnivorous plants!) We enjoyed<br />
the opportunity to present a workshop to<br />
further get out the word on iris and perhaps<br />
dispel a few old wives’ tales in the process.<br />
“We look forward to participating next year.<br />
Thanks again for all your help.”<br />
Bob Lauf<br />
Oak Ridge
Art for <strong>Gardens</strong> at Blooms Days<br />
Jean Hess Buffalo Ridge 2004<br />
24 x 24” Oil, acrylic, paper collage, plants, resin on canvas.<br />
Retail $1700<br />
I believe I am obliged as an artist to create visual surfaces that have a positive<br />
and uplifting effect and are, at best, engaging. Sometimes I think it is most<br />
important that the work praises those things I care most about: <strong>The</strong> natural<br />
world, represented by plants, minerals, shells, soil and scientific diagrams; A<br />
sense <strong>of</strong> collapsed time, suggested by mysterious antique texts and graphics as<br />
well as found and recycled materials from popular culture and my own excursions.<br />
My process is actually a form <strong>of</strong> prayer, involving as it does immersion in<br />
labor-intensive, <strong>of</strong>ten repetitive actions.<br />
2006 Releases <strong>of</strong> Don Williams Botanical Collection<br />
<strong>The</strong> 006 releases <strong>of</strong> the Don Williams<br />
Collection are now available. This year’s selections<br />
are Shooting Star (Dodecatheon meadia)<br />
and Common Blue Violet (Confederate) (Viola<br />
priceana) As with all in the series, the prints are<br />
done on a heavy stock, sized to be easily mounted<br />
in a standard 8x 0 frame. <strong>The</strong> pair is available for<br />
$ 5 plus $ shipping and handling. All proceeds<br />
benefit Friends <strong>of</strong> the <strong>UT</strong> <strong>Gardens</strong>. <strong>The</strong> prints are<br />
available at each <strong>of</strong> our major events through the<br />
year, or you can call 865-5 5-4555<br />
or email friends<strong>of</strong>theutgardens@utk.edu to<br />
arrange your purchase.<br />
4<br />
In the beginning, each piece is more or less a “document.” <strong>The</strong>y are records <strong>of</strong>,<br />
studies for, and notations about, various places and experiences inspiring my<br />
work. <strong>The</strong>se <strong>of</strong>ten consist <strong>of</strong> rather realistic vignettes like process notes from<br />
geographical, historical and environmental research, grids, maps and lists,<br />
pigments and minerals, paper collage, as well as plants and other collected<br />
ephemera. I <strong>of</strong>ten collage graffiti and sketches from the textbooks <strong>of</strong> children<br />
who lived over a hundred years ago here in the southeast, and I have collected<br />
old geometry notebooks from Italy.<br />
<strong>The</strong> finished works, created by layering pigment and resin over the original<br />
infrastructure <strong>of</strong> details, become more abstract “environments.” That is, I like<br />
to think the viewer can experience these directly, kinesthetically. <strong>The</strong>y depict no<br />
specific place, just a state <strong>of</strong> happy suspension – in water or air or light. <strong>The</strong>se<br />
atmospheric paintings emphasize the ethereal; light-refracting surfaces are<br />
enhanced by scattered dry metallic pigment, pressed flowers and leaves, and<br />
realistically rendered flowers floating on the surface.<br />
<strong>The</strong> plants I incorporate into my work typically come from my own garden. I<br />
also collect plants from places <strong>of</strong> special significance to me, like the Trial <strong>Gardens</strong><br />
at <strong>UT</strong>, the gardens <strong>of</strong> family and friends, and a garden on the campus <strong>of</strong> Milligan<br />
College, near Johnson City, where my paternal grandparents went to school.<br />
I am, then, a bricoleur, engaged in experimentation with contrasting materials<br />
from disparate sources. I think <strong>of</strong> these paintings as a gathering <strong>of</strong> gifts,<br />
reaffirming my fundamental belief in emphasizing the good. I use a vocabulary<br />
<strong>of</strong> natural forms, atmospheric environments, rich secondary colors, and intricate<br />
texts and marks as signifiers <strong>of</strong> an ideal state <strong>of</strong> grace. One might say they are<br />
evidence <strong>of</strong> yearning for Eden which, <strong>of</strong> course, I imagine to be a garden.<br />
Jean Hess<br />
Knoxville
From the <strong>UT</strong> <strong>Gardens</strong>’ Director<br />
Dr. Sue Hamilton<br />
We’ve added some great plants this spring. Thanks<br />
to Beaver Creek Nursery for giving us a <strong>new</strong> introduction<br />
<strong>of</strong> the Japanese Cornel Dogwood. Cornus<br />
<strong>of</strong>ficianalis ‘Sunsphere’ is a small tree with a more<br />
rounded shape, compact branching and closer<br />
nodes that produce more stunning yellow flowers<br />
than the species. <strong>The</strong> sunny flower blooms about<br />
two weeks earlier than the species, beginning in<br />
mid-February and lasting until late March. It also has<br />
a wonderful cinnamon colored exfoliating bark. We<br />
have planted this great selection close to Neyland<br />
Drive, where its bright yellow spring bloom will<br />
catch drive-by attention. Also from Beaver Creek,<br />
‘Tamukeyama’ Japanese Maple, a lace-leaf Acer<br />
palmatum, has deep burgundy color turning scarlet<br />
red in the fall. Check out this fine nursery at www.<br />
beavercreeknursery.net.<br />
<strong>The</strong> East <strong>Tennessee</strong> Hosta Society has generously<br />
granted $500 toward developing our hosta<br />
collection and shade companion plants. Working<br />
with Brian White <strong>of</strong> D&B Yarden Goodys, we’ve<br />
added 4 hosta selections; two fern selections,<br />
Japanese Painted Fern ‘Pewter Lace’ and Victorian<br />
Fern ‘Encourage’; four selections <strong>of</strong> astilbes ‘Maggie<br />
Daley,’ ‘Pumila,’ ‘Vision in Red’ and ‘Fanal’; ‘Satin<br />
Doll’ Tradescantia (Spiderwort); and Disporopsis<br />
pernyi (Evergreen Solomon’s Seal). (continued) Brian White and Sue Hamilton<br />
HELP!<br />
Committed and active board members are essential<br />
to all vital nonpr<strong>of</strong>it organizations. <strong>The</strong> Board <strong>of</strong> the<br />
Friends is seeking individuals from our campus and<br />
community with the following competencies to add to<br />
our capabilities in fulfilling our mission: accountant;<br />
attorney; public relations; publicity and promotion;<br />
marketing and sales; park management; business/corporate<br />
relations; hospitality/food services/<br />
entertainment; volunteer placement/management;<br />
5<br />
Duane Ridenour <strong>of</strong> Beaver Creek and Sue Hamilton with ‘Sunsphere’ Japanese<br />
Cornel Dogwood<br />
donor services; membership services; database<br />
management; wordprocessing wizardry; funds<br />
development and finances.<br />
If you are interested in being considered for the<br />
Board, please contact Sandra Leach, Treasurer<br />
and Chair <strong>of</strong> the Nominating Committee, by<br />
calling the Friends’ Infoline 865-5 5-4555 at<br />
your earliest convenience.
Our faithful volunteers planting hostas<br />
Another wonderful source for many <strong>new</strong> plants that<br />
have been added to the <strong>Gardens</strong> is Gum Tree Farm<br />
Specialty Nursery located in Hermitage, Tenn.<br />
Friends board member Faye Beck and I recently spent<br />
six glorious hours touring the gardens and arboretum<br />
there and then shopping. In addition to selling us many<br />
fabulous plants for the <strong>Gardens</strong>, nursery manager<br />
Robert Wilson gave the following choice plants:<br />
Edgeworthia chrysantha - Giant Leaf Paper Plant<br />
Panicum amarum ‘Dewey Blue’ - Bitter Switchgrass<br />
Chamaecyparis pisifera ‘Vintage Gold’ - Sawara Cypress<br />
Cornus controversa ‘Variegata’ - Variegated Giant Dogwood,<br />
Wedding Cake Tree<br />
Calycanthus x raulstonii ‘Hartlage Wine’ - Raulston Allspice<br />
Acer davidii ‘George Forrest’ - Snake Bark Maple<br />
Abies koreana ‘Horstmann’s Silberlocke’ - Silberlocke<br />
Korean Fir<br />
Robert Wilson and Sue Hamilton with Calycanthus x raulstonii ‘Hartlage Wine’<br />
- Raulston Allspice<br />
Gum Tree Farm is open only selected days, so visit<br />
www.gumtreenursery.com to learn more about<br />
this great nursery and how you can visit. Mr. Wilson is<br />
quite a plantsman and is <strong>Tennessee</strong>’s version <strong>of</strong> Tony<br />
Avent, the (infamous) North Carolina nurseryman and<br />
owner <strong>of</strong> Plant Delights Nursery.<br />
6<br />
Faye Beck with Korean Fir ‘Silberlocke’<br />
Thanks to Bert Williamson <strong>of</strong> Palmetto Farm in<br />
Knoxville, we are building our hardy palm collection.<br />
We already have a nice collection <strong>of</strong> hardy<br />
tropical plants such as the Hardy Sugarcane,<br />
Phormium and Brugmansia, but Bert has assisted<br />
in building our palm collection. I also have joined<br />
the Southeastern Palm Society to learn more<br />
about these plants in our region <strong>of</strong> the country.<br />
Bert has donated the following:<br />
Trachycarpus fortunei - Chinese Windmill Palm<br />
Trachycarpus fortunei ‘Bulgaria’ - Bulgaria Windmill Palm<br />
Serenoa repens - Saw Palmetto<br />
Sabal minor - Dwarf palmetto<br />
Sabal minor ‘Louisiana’- Louisiana Palmetto<br />
Sabal Bermudiana - Bermuda Palmetto<br />
Sabal uresana - Savannah Palmetto<br />
Sabal palmetto - Cabbage Palmetto<br />
Quercus virginiana - Live Oak<br />
Rhapidophyllum hystrix - Needle Palm<br />
Washingtonia filifera - California Fan Palm<br />
Zamia integrifolia - Coontie<br />
Also, thanks to Friends board member Faye Beck, we<br />
have added Butia capitata Jelly Palm to our collection.<br />
Finally, I want to say “Thank You” to everyone who<br />
helped make the fourth annual Blooms Days a great<br />
success. Mary Collins-Shepard does an amazing<br />
job as the event coordinator, heading up a large<br />
committee <strong>of</strong> coordinators and volunteers. Special<br />
thanks to Dr. John Hodges <strong>of</strong> the <strong>UT</strong> Agricultural<br />
Experiment Station and his staff for their work and<br />
support <strong>of</strong> this event. We are all deeply grateful to<br />
our staff and volunteers for all that they do to make<br />
the <strong>Gardens</strong> beautiful and ready for this event, especially<br />
during an extremely dry June.
News Briefs<br />
<strong>The</strong> <strong>University</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Tennessee</strong> <strong>Gardens</strong> has been<br />
featured in a number <strong>of</strong> media this summer. In<br />
the March 006 issue <strong>of</strong> At Home <strong>Tennessee</strong>,<br />
the <strong>Gardens</strong> were one <strong>of</strong> several public gardens<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>Tennessee</strong> highlighted in the article “Garden<br />
Grandeur” by Kay Thompson Lee. An Associated<br />
Press article by Elizabeth Davis in the Knoxville<br />
News Sentinel on May 5 discussed the role and<br />
value <strong>of</strong> the <strong>Gardens</strong>’ plant trials program both<br />
locally and nationally.<br />
Congratulations to public horticulture graduate<br />
students who have received several outstanding<br />
state and national awards. Beth Willis recently<br />
earned a $ , 50 scholarship from the <strong>Tennessee</strong><br />
Federation <strong>of</strong> Garden Clubs and $ ,500 from the<br />
National Garden Clubs to support her graduate<br />
studies. Andy Pulte received a travel grant from the<br />
American Public Garden Association to attend the<br />
annual conference in San Francisco. Terumi Saito<br />
has received a travel grant from Western Carolina<br />
<strong>University</strong> to attend the Cullowhee Conference<br />
on Native Plants in the Landscape. She was also<br />
accepted to attend the 006 Monticello Historic<br />
Landscape Institute on “Preserving Jefferson’s<br />
<strong>Gardens</strong> and Landscapes.” All these awards are<br />
competitive, and the financial grants and travel experiences<br />
to these conferences and institutes should<br />
prove invaluable to these students’ pr<strong>of</strong>essional<br />
studies and development. <strong>The</strong> awards also bring<br />
<strong>welcome</strong> exposure to these outstanding students, our<br />
public horticulture program and the university.<br />
Cherokee Garden Club awards public horticulture student Beth Willis a $500<br />
scholarship. Back row: Beth Willis (left) and Dr. Sue Hamilton. Front row: Bonny<br />
Naugher (left) and Angie Campbell-Schultz <strong>of</strong> Knoxville’s Cherokee Garden Club.<br />
<strong>Gardens</strong>’ Curator James Newburn leads a tour <strong>of</strong> the International MOMS Club<br />
<strong>of</strong> Maryville.<br />
Many field trips and tours brought visitors to the<br />
<strong>Gardens</strong> in May, June and July. Terumi Saito coordinated<br />
two noteworthy field trips, one with 85 first<br />
graders and chaperones from Carter Elementary<br />
School and another from Fort Craig School with<br />
06 children and 45 chaperones. Terumi used six <strong>of</strong><br />
our <strong>Gardens</strong>’ staff to rotate the children through three<br />
different activities which taught them about pollination,<br />
plant anatomy and seed dispersal, thus fulfilling<br />
Knox County’s First Grade Performance Objectives<br />
for plant science. This also was great experience for<br />
Terumi and our public horticulture students to see and<br />
learn how a public garden can be used to teach children<br />
about plants and nurture the next generation <strong>of</strong><br />
gardeners. It also demonstrates another way that the<br />
<strong>UT</strong> <strong>Gardens</strong> are relevant to our community. (continued)<br />
Public horticulture graduate students Sarah Murphy (L) and Terumi Saito represented<br />
the <strong>UT</strong> <strong>Gardens</strong> and its Books & Blooms Summer Reading Program with a<br />
“Plant Petting Zoo” at the Knox County Library’s Festival <strong>of</strong> Reading Fair in June.
Fredda Williams, director <strong>of</strong> Children’s Special Programs with Knox County<br />
Libraries, leads storytime at Books & Blooms in June.<br />
Another way that the <strong>Gardens</strong> reach into the community<br />
is with the Books and Blooms summer program<br />
with Knox County Libraries, which has attracted more<br />
than 00 children and parents. Terumi Saito coordinated<br />
this program, which brought parents and<br />
children to our <strong>Gardens</strong> for “botanical storytime.”<br />
Pre-schoolers through fifth graders enjoyed stories<br />
and learning about plants on the second and fourth<br />
Thursdays <strong>of</strong> each month through August.<br />
Children enjoy “sprinkler time” after Books & Blooms.<br />
8<br />
Summer found the <strong>Gardens</strong> full <strong>of</strong> bugs, but not<br />
necessarily pests—shutterbugs were out in large<br />
numbers. Retired <strong>UT</strong> botany pr<strong>of</strong>essor Dr. Alan<br />
Heilman is no stranger to regular visitors. You can<br />
find him pursuing his passion <strong>of</strong> close-up photography<br />
most days in the <strong>Gardens</strong>. We see many<br />
pr<strong>of</strong>essional photographers in the <strong>Gardens</strong> and<br />
even a pr<strong>of</strong>essional videographer as well. Abacus<br />
Creative Management filmed a television commercial<br />
for St. Mary’s Health Systems with Karl<br />
Heinzman, a Friends past president. I can’t wait<br />
to see Karl and the beauty <strong>of</strong> our <strong>Gardens</strong> on<br />
television!<br />
Dr. Alan Heilman photographing in the <strong>Gardens</strong><br />
Past Friends president Karl Heinzman appears in a television commercial for<br />
Abacus Creative Management.
From the <strong>UT</strong> <strong>Gardens</strong>’ Curator<br />
James Newburn<br />
One word describes the <strong>Gardens</strong> for the second half <strong>of</strong><br />
the summer, and that is HOT—not just because <strong>of</strong> the<br />
temperature, but also because <strong>of</strong> the hot tropicals and<br />
tropical looking plants. With their big, bold textures and<br />
outstanding foliage colors, these plants really make a<br />
statement and make you feel as though you’re walking<br />
through a paradise.<br />
One favorite tropical plant that we have used extensively<br />
in the past couple <strong>of</strong> years is variegated tapioca<br />
or Manihot esculenta ‘Variegata.’ This plant loves<br />
summer and in fact does not begin to thrive until<br />
night temperatures are above 60 degrees. <strong>The</strong> variegated<br />
chartreuse and bright yellow five-lobed leaves are<br />
striking, and one plant can get 4-5 feet tall and up to 5<br />
feet in diameter. We use them as a centerpiece or backdrop<br />
for that splash <strong>of</strong> color to complement the flowers<br />
<strong>of</strong> annuals and perennials planted around or in front<br />
<strong>of</strong> them. We also use them mixed in with cannas and<br />
bananas for a truly tropical feel.<br />
Of course, nothing says tropical like banana plants.<br />
<strong>The</strong>se plants always draw visitors’ attention. Musa<br />
basjoo, the hardy banana, is the large green-leaved<br />
banana in the perennial border and in the bed above<br />
the annual display area. Each year our clumps get bigger<br />
and bigger, and for that reason they are popular at the<br />
Dig-and-Divide course because you can split <strong>of</strong>f the side<br />
shoots or “pups” and start a <strong>new</strong> stand. <strong>The</strong>se are truly<br />
hardy here (even to zone 5) and die back at the end<br />
<strong>of</strong> each season. <strong>The</strong>y grow 0+ feet in one season and<br />
<strong>of</strong>ten bloom and begin to produce fruit, although our<br />
growing season is a bit short for them to ripen.<br />
We have several other bananas that are show stoppers<br />
but are not hardy and must be protected from freezing<br />
temperatures. Musa acuminata ‘Zebrina’ and ‘Rojo’<br />
<strong>of</strong>ten have the common name <strong>of</strong> blood banana. <strong>The</strong>y<br />
have green leaves splotched with burgundy wine to<br />
bright red stains. We also have the large Musa Ensete<br />
maurelii or Red Abyssinian. This plant has a very thick<br />
trunk, and the leaves are green on the top with a shiny<br />
red underside. It is outstanding at any time <strong>of</strong> day but<br />
spectacular when backlit by the sun. New this year<br />
and planted throughout our annual beds and in mixed<br />
<strong>The</strong> popular lotus plant<br />
containers is the dwarf banana ‘Little Prince.’ This plant<br />
only gets 4- 6 inches tall and though small adds a<br />
dramatic touch to the display bed or acts as a centerpiece<br />
in a mixed container.<br />
<strong>The</strong>n we have the elephant ears. Talk about adding a<br />
dramatic touch! <strong>The</strong>se wonderful plants come in such<br />
variety. You can’t help but notice these standout plants<br />
as they act as a focal point <strong>of</strong> garden planting. Typically<br />
known as partial shade plants, many <strong>of</strong> these will do<br />
just fine in full sun if given adequate moisture. One<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>new</strong> selections this year is Colocasia ‘C<strong>of</strong>fee Cups’<br />
from Plant Delights Nursery. Appropriately named, this<br />
plant has upright leaves that cup upward and hold<br />
water. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve seen insects<br />
such as dragonflies use it for a drinking fountain. Other<br />
notable elephant ears are Colocasia ‘Big Dipper’ with<br />
black stems and green leaves; Alocasia ‘Portodora’<br />
and ‘California’ with leaves pointing skyward; Alocasia<br />
amazonica in the shade garden with its high-gloss blue<br />
green leaves and contrasting white veins; Colocasia<br />
‘Illustris’ with dark green to black leaves with lime<br />
green veins; and finally another <strong>new</strong> addition this<br />
year Colocasia gigantean ‘Thailand Giant Strain’ that<br />
appears to live up to its name by having individual<br />
leaves close to two feet wide.<br />
Last but not least: the lotus plants. What a tropical<br />
feel this lovely bloomer exudes. A hardy water plant<br />
that we have in containers lowered in the ground, the<br />
tubers grow in soil with some leaves floating but most<br />
standing well above the water surface. We probably<br />
have more questions and comments about this plant<br />
than any other we have blooming at this time <strong>of</strong> year.<br />
<strong>The</strong> s<strong>of</strong>t pink or white bloom opens to about 8- inches<br />
across and the leaves are so interesting the way they<br />
hold and collect beads <strong>of</strong> water. Kids (and adults) are<br />
fascinated by swirling the trapped water around the<br />
cupped leaves.
Entertainment by the <strong>Tennessee</strong> Valley Ensemble<br />
Dr. Sue Hamilton leading a workshop group<br />
0<br />
Information, please? Donna Stinnett (seated) answers a question.<br />
PJ Snodgrass checking out the carnivorous plants with Mrs. Harden<br />
Jean Weaver (wearing hat) helps a visitor choose among workshop<br />
<strong>of</strong>ferings and exhibits.
2006 Blooms Days Volunteers, <strong>UT</strong> Faculty and Staff<br />
John Adams<br />
Laura McFee Adams<br />
Sam Adams<br />
Debbie Allen<br />
Mazel Andrews<br />
Beth Babbit<br />
Faye Beck<br />
Pat Bing<br />
Lydia Birk<br />
Leia Blackstock<br />
Ben Blackwood<br />
Deedee Blane<br />
Sheila Boggs<br />
James Bomar<br />
Betty Braden<br />
Bob Braden<br />
Jim Brown<br />
Caroline Buckner<br />
Sandie Burdick<br />
Kathy Burke<br />
Mary Burnett<br />
Bill Byerley<br />
Don Byerly<br />
Sue Byerly<br />
Charles Callis<br />
Lynn Carlson<br />
Stephen Carver<br />
Betty Christian<br />
Mary Collins-Shepard<br />
Posey Congleton<br />
Jim Cortese<br />
John Coykendall<br />
Dave Craig<br />
Susan Creswell<br />
Carolyn Crowder<br />
Gary Dagnan<br />
Kim Davis<br />
Melinda Davis<br />
Cindy Day<br />
Melanie Deaderick<br />
Pat Dent<br />
Linda Denton<br />
Beth Dicus<br />
Will Dunkin<br />
David Dunn<br />
Joy Fels<br />
Ione Fielden<br />
Maria Gall<br />
Lucy Gibson<br />
Brenda Gregory<br />
Judy Griffith<br />
Sally Gross<br />
Ron Hamilton<br />
Sue Hamilton<br />
Aaron Harden<br />
Alan Hart<br />
Marci Hayes<br />
Alan Heilman<br />
Sarah Hendricks<br />
Jean Hess<br />
John Hodges<br />
Bonnie Holmes<br />
C. Rae Hozer<br />
Laurel Humphreys<br />
Dale Jacobsen<br />
Sondra Jamieson<br />
Christine Jessel<br />
Marilyn Johnson<br />
Mike Jones<br />
Sandy Kehne<br />
Bill Klingeman<br />
Alexis Kloss<br />
Shyla Kloss<br />
Carolyn Koefoot<br />
Judy Kopp<br />
Peter Kopp<br />
Dean Kopsell<br />
Ann Lamb<br />
Luis Lara<br />
Nancy Larson<br />
Bob Lauf<br />
Terry Lee<br />
Terry Leese<br />
Bill Lively<br />
Nicole Lloyd<br />
Frances Lothrop<br />
Colette Mancke<br />
Joy Matthews<br />
Zig McMillan<br />
Nathaniel Morgan<br />
Susan Morgan<br />
Sarah Murphy<br />
James Newburn<br />
Lien Nguyen<br />
Pearl Norman<br />
Scott Oderson<br />
Kenneth Pace<br />
Darby Parker<br />
<strong>The</strong>resa Pepin<br />
Madelon Perrault<br />
Tom Perry<br />
Karen Petrey<br />
Jenny Pfeffer<br />
Jane Phillips<br />
Jim Phillips<br />
Lisa Phipps<br />
Jill Pierce<br />
Andy Pulte<br />
Beccy Pulte<br />
Bill Rainey<br />
Beverly Rankin<br />
Dick Raridon<br />
Mary Rayson<br />
Brad Reagan<br />
Emily Reynolds<br />
Laura Riester<br />
Pat Rimmer<br />
Kathy Riordan<br />
Nancy Robinson<br />
Mitzi Rouse<br />
Steve Row<br />
Emily Rowland<br />
Bob Russell<br />
Elaine Russell<br />
Terumi Saito<br />
Tom Samples<br />
Fran Scheidt<br />
Irene Schins<br />
Dorothy Sharp<br />
Mark Sharp<br />
Lorene Sigal<br />
Bobby Simpson<br />
Ione Smith<br />
PJ Snodgrass<br />
Harriette Spiegel<br />
Donna Stinnett<br />
Jay Strozier<br />
Cindy Stuart<br />
Kathy Sullivan<br />
Bobby Summers<br />
Bobby Terry<br />
Fran Thie<br />
Duren Thompson<br />
Ann Tourtelotte<br />
Barbara Tourtelotte<br />
Bob Trigiano<br />
Sandy Vandenberg<br />
Emily Vreeland<br />
Jan Walker<br />
Connie Wallace<br />
Jean Weaver<br />
Mary Weaver<br />
Jason Wight<br />
Cindy Williams<br />
Fredda Williams<br />
Les Williams<br />
Martha Williamson<br />
Beth Willis<br />
Joann Wilson<br />
Mark Windham<br />
Patty Wingate<br />
Deborah<br />
Thompson-Wise<br />
Joan Worley
Welcoming Midas,<br />
the <strong>new</strong> garden cat<br />
We are delighted to announce the arrival <strong>of</strong> a <strong>new</strong><br />
garden cat.<br />
One morning in May, as our crew began its morning’s<br />
work, a big, beautiful, orange and white longhaired<br />
cat came strolling up to them. He seemed very<br />
friendly and affectionate—rubbing up against their legs<br />
and following them around. We wondered where he<br />
came from and if he was perhaps lost or had escaped<br />
from the <strong>UT</strong> Vet School. He had no collar or tags and<br />
seemed to have been out for a while, as evidenced by<br />
some matting <strong>of</strong> his fur and scratches on his legs, ears<br />
and nose.<br />
Midas enjoys story time at Books & Blooms.<br />
After a while he<br />
wandered <strong>of</strong>f and the<br />
next thing we k<strong>new</strong><br />
we saw him again<br />
carrying a mouse he<br />
had caught in the<br />
garden. We thought<br />
this might just be the<br />
mouser we need to<br />
continue the great job<br />
Lotus did in controlling<br />
garden pests.<br />
But we still weren’t<br />
sure if he belonged to<br />
anyone.<br />
He stayed around for a few days wandering in and out<br />
<strong>of</strong> the <strong>Gardens</strong> as we checked with the Vet School,<br />
made inquiries <strong>of</strong> visitors, and tried to determine his<br />
story. Finally, he just seemed to want to stay, and<br />
we thought we’d keep him. We took him to the Vet<br />
School, and they were more than happy to see him<br />
and give him the once-over. <strong>The</strong>y determined that he<br />
was a neutered male approximately 5 years <strong>of</strong> age and<br />
in very good health, except for the few minor wounds.<br />
After having him micro-chipped, groomed, vaccinated<br />
and monitored for a couple <strong>of</strong> days, he was ours.<br />
What to call him became the next question. Thanks go<br />
to frequent garden visitor and cat lover Jimmy Brimer<br />
for coming up with the appropriate name Midas, for<br />
our golden-haired beauty does have the Midas touch.<br />
We are keeping him up in a building at night, but first<br />
thing every morning he goes down to the garden to<br />
begin his day’s work. More so than Lotus, Midas is a<br />
very people-oriented cat. This was initially a problem,<br />
as he kept following everyone out to the parking lot.<br />
Many thanks to Friends president <strong>The</strong>resa Pepin and<br />
all the folks working on the front entrance renovation<br />
for rescuing him many times and putting him back in<br />
the <strong>Gardens</strong>. He is slowly but surely realizing where his<br />
domain is, and we are having fewer problems with that.<br />
Midas seems to love the <strong>Gardens</strong>, and he is a working<br />
cat. He does have his collar with tags and ID on that<br />
jingle-jangle, so rest assured that the birds are safe<br />
from him. Besides with his thick coat and long hair<br />
he seems to have more <strong>of</strong> an air <strong>of</strong> king <strong>of</strong> the jungle<br />
rather than fierce beast. His mere presence alone<br />
seems to be keeping the unwanted critters at bay.<br />
On your next visit to the <strong>Gardens</strong>, you might see our<br />
<strong>new</strong> addition, so feel free to introduce yourself. But he<br />
will probably see you first and approach you quickly to<br />
make himself known and receive your greeting.<br />
Midas riding in the <strong>Gardens</strong>’ mule
Conifer Corner<br />
Andrew<br />
Pulte<br />
Golden larch - Pseudolarix amabilis<br />
I was recently reminded that not only does the <strong>UT</strong><br />
<strong>Gardens</strong> have a great collection <strong>of</strong> <strong>new</strong> conifers, we also<br />
have a diverse collection <strong>of</strong> older conifers we can be<br />
proud <strong>of</strong>. One <strong>of</strong> my favorite older species is the golden<br />
larch. <strong>The</strong> golden larch (Pseudolarix amabilis) is one<br />
<strong>of</strong> several deciduous conifers we have on display. <strong>The</strong>se<br />
conifers lose and then re-grow their needles every year.<br />
Conifers such as the dawn redwood (Metasequoia glyptostroboides),<br />
bald cypress (Taxodium distichum) and<br />
ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba) also fall into this same group.<br />
Pseudolarix means false larch. Pseudolarix differs<br />
primarily from the larches (Larix) in cone morphology<br />
and length <strong>of</strong> needles. This tree is native to the coastal<br />
mountain areas in southeastern China and has been<br />
known to grow to at least 00 feet in the wild. In cultivated<br />
gardens it grows between 0 and 60 feet tall.<br />
This tree would be wonderful as a backdrop to any<br />
garden. Its s<strong>of</strong>t, blue-green needles have a yielding<br />
texture that can be used as a canvas to paint a jaw-dropping<br />
landscape. In the fall this tree that works wonderfully<br />
as a backdrop takes center stage as its needles<br />
turn truly golden.<br />
I first happened upon the golden larch at the Sarah P.<br />
Duke <strong>Gardens</strong> in Durham, N.C. I saw it at just the right<br />
moment <strong>of</strong> peak fall color, placed next to a small pond<br />
where the golden yellow needle color reflects beautifully<br />
<strong>of</strong>f the water’s surface. This is a tree encounter I will not<br />
soon forget.<br />
<strong>The</strong> golden larch has the possibility <strong>of</strong> creating a line<br />
around the block <strong>of</strong> onlookers during the fall akin to<br />
those looking at the best Christmas light displays in<br />
December. If you have the space to accommodate this<br />
tree, it’s a worthy addition to any part <strong>of</strong> your garden.<br />
If not, come and see our specimen behind the shade<br />
garden near Neyland Drive.<br />
4<br />
More on Conifers<br />
Dr. Sue Hamilton met this summer with Ellen<br />
Adcock, executive director <strong>of</strong> Knoxville Botanical<br />
<strong>Gardens</strong> and Arboretum, and Jenny Jukes, the<br />
daughter <strong>of</strong> the founder <strong>of</strong> Howell Nursery, which<br />
is now the botanical garden and arboretum. After<br />
discussing how the <strong>UT</strong> <strong>Gardens</strong> and KBGA can<br />
collaborate and benefit each other, Ellen and Jenny<br />
presented the <strong>UT</strong> <strong>Gardens</strong> with a unique conifer,<br />
the Umbrella Pine, or Sciadopitys verticillata. This<br />
is a highly prized ornamental tree in many gardens.<br />
Ellen and Jenny give Sue the Umbrella Pine.<br />
Look for this prized conifer in the <strong>new</strong>est renovated<br />
area <strong>of</strong> the tree and shrub garden. In exchange<br />
for this unique conifer, public horticulture graduate<br />
student Andy Pulte and Sue gave the KBGA<br />
a selection <strong>of</strong> coleus from the <strong>UT</strong> <strong>Gardens</strong> ‘Rocky<br />
Top’ series and an unusual tree, Aleurites fordii,<br />
the Tung Oil Tree. You can learn more about KBGA<br />
by visiting the website at www.knoxgarden.org.<br />
American Conifer Society president Tom Cox awards Dr. Sue Hamilton a $3,000<br />
gift in support <strong>of</strong> the <strong>Gardens</strong>’ conifer collection at the recent national conference<br />
in Knoxville.
Secret Garden Parties 2006<br />
All parties have been well received in this <strong>new</strong><br />
format, and tickets have sold out well before party<br />
dates. As <strong>of</strong> early August, tickets remained for<br />
the stellar event <strong>of</strong> the season at Hill Top Farm.<br />
Both local and regional media plan to feature the<br />
Hill Top Farm event in publicity, so we encourage<br />
you not to delay purchase <strong>of</strong> tickets, especially if<br />
you are hoping to join other tables/groups already<br />
booked.<br />
We wish to give heartfelt thanks to all <strong>of</strong> the garden<br />
owners who hosted the Secret Garden party events<br />
and to the many hosts and sponsors who gave their<br />
assistance. We could not provide this enjoyable,<br />
enlightening and entertaining schedule <strong>of</strong> events<br />
without their generous support. Please note that all<br />
the food and beverages provided at these parties is<br />
financed by the hosts—not to mention their investment<br />
in establishing and maintaining these very<br />
private and personal gardens—so that all <strong>of</strong> the<br />
revenue from the ticket sales goes to the <strong>University</strong><br />
<strong>Gardens</strong>.<br />
<strong>The</strong> following is a brief review <strong>of</strong> the parties that<br />
have occurred since the May press time <strong>of</strong> the<br />
last <strong>new</strong>sletter:<br />
May Wine (May ) took place at the captivating<br />
garden <strong>of</strong> Bill and Jeannie Tapp. Also hosting<br />
were Becky and Jim Ferguson, Leah and David<br />
Moir, Priscilla and Tom Siler, and Lisa Stanley and<br />
Sue Wrisberg <strong>of</strong> Stanley’s Plant Farm. Jeannie,<br />
Host David Moir conducts the wine tasting.<br />
5<br />
Becky and Leah created a delectable array <strong>of</strong><br />
hors d’oeuvres, with recipes provided. David Moir<br />
discussed the <strong>new</strong>ly introduced wines from the<br />
Biltmore Estate Winery, along with the first tasting<br />
<strong>of</strong> their annual May Wine. Guests sampled these<br />
tasty wines as they enjoyed walking through this<br />
enchanting garden. Lisa and Sue demonstrated<br />
some <strong>of</strong> the <strong>new</strong>est plant varieties available, and<br />
Lisa created a potted arrangement while the guests<br />
looked on.<br />
Swan Pond Farm (May ) was at the perfectly<br />
manicured 00-acre farm <strong>of</strong> Barbara and Dewey<br />
Hillard, who provided a delicious lunch for guests<br />
under the trees <strong>of</strong> their back yard next to the<br />
Dana McLaughlin with host Barbara Hillard<br />
charming cottage garden. Guests wandered from<br />
the adorable guest house to the enormous barn<br />
filled with gigantic equipment (that mesmerized<br />
all the men) and to the boat house, where several<br />
guests enjoyed the hammock and blue and white<br />
seating arrangement. <strong>The</strong> picturesque setting<br />
should be in a magazine. Helping out were Dave<br />
McPherson and wife Dana McLaughlin and Brian<br />
and Michelle Hillard.
Florilège (May 0) took place at the beautiful<br />
garden <strong>of</strong> Laura McFee-Adams and her husband<br />
Mitchell Adams. This morning event was a perfect<br />
time to beat the heat and to enjoy a bountiful<br />
brunch in the gardens. Cappuccino, espresso<br />
Hosts Laura McFee Adams and Mitchell Adams<br />
and a delightful fruited tea were just a few <strong>of</strong> the<br />
morning beverages <strong>of</strong>fered. Debbie Allen baked<br />
a cream-cheese pastry that would make Martha<br />
Stewart envious. Camilla Lyle, Laura’s sister,<br />
arranged delightful fresh flowers for the event.<br />
Guests enjoyed tranquil music (by <strong>The</strong>resa Pepin on<br />
keyboards and Margaret Scanlan on the dulcimer)<br />
as they dined and wandered through the colorful<br />
and creative garden.<br />
Riverdale (June ) was a two-part event in which<br />
Debra Taylor and husband Mark Burch allowed<br />
a one-time tour and shopping spree for guests<br />
at their greenhouses at Riverdale Nursery, which<br />
is a wholesale business only. A truly magnifi-<br />
Mary Collins-Shepard (left), Karen Petrey, Ken Shepard<br />
6<br />
cent Mediterranean-inspired gourmet lunch buffet<br />
prepared by Vicki Baumgartner was set out under<br />
the huge shade trees at the Baumgartner home<br />
next door. Vicki prepared all dishes with herbs<br />
from her garden and the nursery. Guests explored<br />
the many gardens at the beautiful Baumgartner<br />
farm on the river. This event was also hosted by<br />
Julia Huster, Mary Spengler, Faye Beck and Sondra<br />
Jamieson.<br />
A Day in Sweetwater (June 0) took place at<br />
two unique locations in the charming little town <strong>of</strong><br />
Sweetwater. <strong>The</strong> tour began at the historic farmhouse<br />
and scenic property <strong>of</strong> hosts Craig and Griff<br />
Harsh. Guests were thrilled to explore the entire<br />
Becky Stout (left) and Pam Reddoch<br />
property, including the beautiful antique-filled<br />
house that began as a log cabin in 8 . As guests<br />
enjoyed their picnic lunch, two mares and their<br />
foals ran and played in the adjacent field—an aweinspiring<br />
site to behold. A wonderful selection <strong>of</strong><br />
dessert was served at the exquisite garden <strong>of</strong> host<br />
Elin Johnson. Guests were extremely impressed<br />
with Elin’s design and use <strong>of</strong> unusual plants<br />
throughout the garden, taking many clever ideas<br />
away with them. Also hosting were Pam Reddoch,<br />
Mary Spengler and Carol Schmid.<br />
Secret Garden Parties Meadowlark (September 6)<br />
and Rose Point (October ) are sold out.<br />
Special thanks to sponsors <strong>of</strong> the 006 Secret<br />
Garden Parties—Home Federal Bank and Lane Hays.
Upcoming Secret Garden Party:<br />
Hill Top Farm, Oct. 14, 6 p.m.<br />
<strong>The</strong>re is no one on earth like Ryan Gainey.<br />
Much <strong>of</strong> the success <strong>of</strong> the Atlanta Botanical<br />
Garden can be attributed to the style and sensibility<br />
to fine gardening practices and in depth knowledge<br />
<strong>of</strong> plants that Ryan Gainey has cultivated among<br />
owners <strong>of</strong> exquisite private gardens and stewards<br />
<strong>of</strong> great public gardens in his home city <strong>of</strong> Atlanta,<br />
Georgia. Internationally acclaimed as a champion<br />
<strong>of</strong> gardens and a master garden designer, Gainey<br />
is a true Southern original, raconteur, classicist<br />
and connoisseur. He has inspired garden lovers all<br />
over the world to accept nothing less than the best,<br />
the most fragrant, and the most beautiful in siting,<br />
structure and planting.<br />
Ryan Gainey and Marc Mosley on an inspection trip <strong>of</strong> the <strong>new</strong> plantings and<br />
structures at Hill Top Farm in July 2006.<br />
<strong>The</strong>re is no spot in the city that can compete<br />
with the views from this elevated site overlooking<br />
the <strong>Tennessee</strong> River <strong>of</strong>f Lyons View in<br />
West Knoxville.<br />
Together with architect Marc Mosley, Gainey has<br />
worked with owner Caesar Stair to create this one<strong>of</strong>-a-kind<br />
setting. Distinctive architectural elements<br />
<strong>of</strong> the home and property have been combined<br />
with considerations <strong>of</strong> lifestyle and favorite vistas to<br />
result in an environment <strong>of</strong> elegance and gracious<br />
living. A <strong>new</strong>ly constructed pergola <strong>of</strong> stone and<br />
wood nearly 00 feet long dominates the center <strong>of</strong><br />
the design and echoes that <strong>of</strong> Hestercombe in the<br />
View <strong>of</strong> the <strong>Tennessee</strong> River from Hill Top Farm<br />
Cotswolds. Planted with wisteria, roses, asters and<br />
many other annuals, perennials and shrubs, this<br />
main axis gives way to stone stairs through lushly<br />
planted beds to a lower terrace with meticulously<br />
pruned trees in a semi-circular allee centered by an<br />
antique baptistery fountain. A guest cottage now<br />
revels in the renovation <strong>of</strong> both its shingle exterior<br />
and sheltering plantings <strong>of</strong> osmanthus, hollies,<br />
viburnum and hydrangeas.<br />
<strong>The</strong>re is no better example <strong>of</strong> community<br />
support in this event <strong>of</strong> the season than the celebration<br />
<strong>of</strong> a <strong>new</strong> private garden as a benefit for<br />
the public <strong>University</strong> <strong>Gardens</strong>.<br />
<strong>The</strong> Stairs are celebrating their <strong>new</strong> private<br />
garden by hosting cocktails and dinner as a fundraising<br />
event to benefit the <strong>University</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Tennessee</strong><br />
<strong>Gardens</strong>. In the course <strong>of</strong> transforming their lives,<br />
Gainey has become a friend and is the guest <strong>of</strong><br />
honor at this celebration, where he will discuss<br />
his work at Hill Top Farm. <strong>The</strong> cost <strong>of</strong> this event<br />
is $ 5 per person. All tickets must be purchased<br />
in advance and are strictly limited in number. All<br />
proceeds from tickets sold benefit the <strong>University</strong> <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>Tennessee</strong> <strong>Gardens</strong>. Tickets can be purchased by<br />
sending payment to the Friends <strong>of</strong> the <strong>UT</strong> <strong>Gardens</strong>,<br />
P. O. Box 5 4, Knoxville, TN 50- 4 or by<br />
PayPal online at www.friends<strong>of</strong>theutgardens.org.<br />
As <strong>of</strong> mid-August, tickets were still available for<br />
this final fundraising event <strong>of</strong> 006. <strong>The</strong> Friends’<br />
Infoline at 865-5 5-4555 will advise when tickets<br />
are no longer available for Hill Top Farm. For more<br />
information on Ryan Gainey and his portfolio <strong>of</strong><br />
commissions, see www.ryangainey.com.
Q& a<br />
Q: <strong>Wow</strong>! <strong>Nifty</strong> <strong>new</strong> <strong>welcome</strong><br />
and donor boards in the<br />
Entrance Garden. <strong>The</strong> space<br />
also seems much larger and<br />
more open. I read about the<br />
plans for Phase 2 and Phase 3<br />
improvements on the Entrance<br />
Plaza. Are they really on track<br />
to happen by this fall and<br />
winter?<br />
a: <strong>The</strong>y sure are. Work on the<br />
entrance began in earnest in mid-<br />
May. A design committee headed<br />
by Mary Spengler and Dr. Sue<br />
Hamilton met in early May to<br />
discuss design issues, and we<br />
rushed on Phase (the nitty-gritty<br />
who-wants-to-do-this dirty-work?<br />
phase) to get the plaza in safe and<br />
attractive shape for Blooms Days<br />
’06. It won’t be long before you<br />
see caution tape back up on the<br />
main entrance for <strong>new</strong> construction.<br />
A huge thank you to Henry<br />
and Sandra McIlwaine, donors <strong>of</strong><br />
$ 0,000 for this renovation effort,<br />
and the several contractors who<br />
have so far donated in-kind materials<br />
and services to this effort<br />
amounting to nearly $5,000. (<strong>The</strong><br />
McIlwaines, it should be noted, were<br />
also major donors to the original<br />
construction work on the Entrance<br />
Plaza in 000 undertaken by Dr. Don<br />
Williams and his students.) Special<br />
thanks to Liz Etnier and her sister<br />
for their volunteer help (immediately<br />
following a family wedding in the<br />
<strong>Gardens</strong>, too!)<br />
Calendar Reminders<br />
<strong>UT</strong> Non-Credit Course: Weird and Wonderful Plant<br />
Variations<br />
Saturday, Sept. 16, 10 a.m.–noon<br />
Make close acquaintance with witches and she-monsters<br />
<strong>of</strong> the plant world—known more precisely as “witches<br />
brooms” and “chimeras.” Discover how plants react to<br />
their environment through chemistry and in association<br />
with fungi and grafting. Be the only person on your block<br />
(planet?) to own an other-worldly and entirely unique, living<br />
specimen.<br />
Instructor: Dr. Will Witte, retired <strong>University</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Tennessee</strong><br />
pr<strong>of</strong>essor who has long been involved in research on<br />
“woodies” <strong>of</strong> the plant world in the <strong>UT</strong> <strong>Gardens</strong> and<br />
elsewhere.<br />
Course Fee: $<br />
Location: <strong>University</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Tennessee</strong> Arboretum in Oak Ridge<br />
<strong>UT</strong> Non-Credit Course: Dig and Divide<br />
Saturday, Sept. 30, 10 a.m.-noon<br />
How <strong>of</strong>ten does someone invite you to come and learn how<br />
to dig treasures out <strong>of</strong> their yard? This is your opportunity<br />
to dig in the <strong>UT</strong> <strong>Gardens</strong> and take home a load <strong>of</strong> plants for<br />
your own use, too. We will learn how to divide plants in the<br />
perennial beds throughout the <strong>Gardens</strong>, replant one section<br />
<strong>of</strong> a plant, and put the remainder in the course pool for<br />
participants to select from when the digging is completed.<br />
Tools will be furnished, but if you have a favorite digging<br />
tool and hand pruners, please bring them along. Also,<br />
dress comfortably and be prepared to get dirty and have a<br />
good time.<br />
Instructors: <strong>UT</strong> <strong>Gardens</strong> Staff assisted by master<br />
gardeners from the Friends <strong>of</strong> the <strong>University</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Tennessee</strong><br />
<strong>Gardens</strong>.<br />
Course Fee: $4<br />
Location: <strong>University</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Tennessee</strong> <strong>Gardens</strong>, Neyland Drive<br />
on the Ag Campus<br />
NEW UPCOMING COURSE:<br />
Nov. 8: Drying Natural Plant Materials<br />
All courses are now <strong>of</strong>fered in partnership with the<br />
<strong>University</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Tennessee</strong> Outreach and Continuing Education<br />
Office. To obtain the latest Non-Credit Courses Catalog,<br />
call 865- 4-0 50 or visit www.outreach.utk.edu/ppd.<br />
All proceeds from course <strong>of</strong>ferings and trips benefit the<br />
<strong>University</strong> <strong>Gardens</strong>. Note that most courses, unless indicated<br />
otherwise, will also qualify for the non-credit <strong>UT</strong><br />
Landscape and Garden Design Certificate program.<br />
8
New & Re<strong>new</strong> Membership List<br />
PATRON FRIEND<br />
Garden Study Club<br />
BUSINESS FRIENDS<br />
Erin’s Meadow Herb Farm<br />
Beaver Creek Nursery<br />
Sunlight <strong>Gardens</strong><br />
SPONSORING FRIENDS<br />
Ellen Adcock<br />
Jack & Frances Britt<br />
Melinda Davis<br />
Sherri Parker Lee<br />
SUSTAINING FRIENDS<br />
Deedee Blane<br />
Kathryn P. Clark<br />
Arun Jethanandani<br />
Fritzie Logan<br />
Anne Victoria<br />
Stuart Worden<br />
GARDEN CLUB FRIENDS<br />
Garden Study Club<br />
<strong>The</strong> Great Smoky Mountains<br />
Koi Club & Pond Society<br />
CONTRIB<strong>UT</strong>ING FRIENDS<br />
Mr. & Mrs. Samuel E. Beall, Jr.<br />
Carol Costello<br />
Mark Fuhrman<br />
Lane Hays<br />
Nancy Hugh<br />
Edie Johnson<br />
Mary Laura Koella<br />
Judy Loest<br />
Joyce McGlothin<br />
Mary Mishu<br />
Nancy Montgomery<br />
Judy Moore<br />
Pat & Lester Petrie<br />
Mr. & Mrs. George E. Wilson<br />
FAMILY FRIENDS<br />
Bob & Betty Braden<br />
David & Elizabeth Craig<br />
Lynda Everman<br />
Donna Fain<br />
Mary & Dean Farmer<br />
Doug & Sally Gross<br />
Ron & Sue Hamilton<br />
Mr. & Mrs. Joe Harrison<br />
Wes & Thalia Hatmaker<br />
Janet & Rob Herman<br />
Gary Westley & Judith Ideker<br />
Anne and James Johnson<br />
Ann & Jim Lamb<br />
Susanne Levi<br />
Don & Anne Loy<br />
Hilde De Weerd & Mary Lucal<br />
Tricia McClam<br />
Scott Jackson & Chris Moore<br />
Harold Myers<br />
Mike & Kay Northern<br />
Branca Paul & Robin<br />
Mr. and Mrs. Robert F. Samples<br />
Kathy & John Sullivan<br />
Elizabeth & James Wall<br />
INDIVIDUAL FRIENDS<br />
Michelle Albritton<br />
Kathleen Ambrose<br />
Laurie Andrews<br />
Barbara Apking<br />
Leslie Badaines<br />
Maritza Bailey<br />
Allen Beeler<br />
Katherine R. Brennan<br />
June S. Burch<br />
Vance & Martha Burkey<br />
Bill J. Byerley<br />
Anglyn Campbell<br />
Ellyn Cauble<br />
Yi Ying Chen<br />
Chesley Dale<br />
Faye Daniel<br />
Ann R. Davis<br />
Betty Dick<br />
Janet Dowlen<br />
Elizabeth Etnier<br />
Melissa Ferguson<br />
Nancy Fitzpatrick<br />
Dianne Forry<br />
Barbara Garrett<br />
Brenda Gregory<br />
Judy Griffith<br />
Stephen Guess<br />
Edith C. Halbert<br />
Joanne Hanley-Wilson<br />
Paticia Harris<br />
Craig Harsh<br />
Amy Haun<br />
Barbara Hillard<br />
Julia Huster<br />
Jo Davis<br />
Roberts John<br />
Lucie Jones<br />
Paul Kelley<br />
Carol Labudde<br />
Larkie Gildersleeve<br />
Ruby Lee<br />
Betty Leverett<br />
Debra Lord<br />
Lynn Lowery<br />
Carroll M. Lynn<br />
Julia Malia<br />
Glenn Marshall<br />
Joy Matthews<br />
Brian Maynard<br />
Pam Milner<br />
Flo Moore<br />
Lori Murphree<br />
Bobby Murphy<br />
Rennie Nancy<br />
R. L. Ousley, Jr.<br />
Carol Overbey<br />
Diantha Pare<br />
Joanna Partain<br />
Sherae Patterson<br />
Susan Peterson<br />
Janice S. Peterson<br />
Lee Ann Ratledge<br />
Ann Reed<br />
Duane Ridenour<br />
Pat Rimmer<br />
David Roberts<br />
Linda Rogers<br />
Mitzi Rouse<br />
Alan Rowe<br />
Marty Russell<br />
Gail Rymer<br />
Wagner Sanford<br />
Millie Senatore<br />
Charlotte Smith<br />
Jennifer Stokes<br />
Becky Stout<br />
Stella Sudderth<br />
Karen Trentham<br />
Pam Turner<br />
Patricia Van Leeuwen<br />
Lynn Venafro<br />
Jackie Victorson<br />
Patricia Vogel<br />
Mary Sue Walker<br />
Esther Webster<br />
Jackie Wilson<br />
Marilyn Wohl
P.O. Box 5 4<br />
Knoxville, TN 50- 4<br />
Return Service Requested<br />
Volume 13 no 7 september 2006<br />
865-525-4555<br />
friends<strong>of</strong>theutgardens@utk.edu<br />
www.friends<strong>of</strong>theutgardens.org<br />
<strong>The</strong> Garden PosT<br />
Coming Up On <strong>The</strong> Calendar:<br />
Saturday, September 16 . . . .COURSE . . . . . . . . Weird and Wonderful Plant Variations <strong>UT</strong> PPD Course #271619<br />
Saturday, September 16 . . . .EVENT . . . . . . . . . Secret Garden Party—Meadowlark SOLD O<strong>UT</strong><br />
Tuesday, September 19 . . . . .IN THE GARDENS . . Twilight Walk 6 p.m.<br />
Saturday, September 23 . . . .EVENT . . . . . . . . . . Ag Day on the <strong>UT</strong> Agriculture Campus<br />
Monday, September 25 . . . . .MEETING . . . . . . . . Board Meeting 7 p.m.<br />
Saturday, September 30 . . . .COURSE . . . . . . . . Dig and Divide <strong>UT</strong> PPD Course #271620<br />
Saturday, October 7 . . . . . . .EVENT . . . . . . . . . Secret Garden Party—Rose Point SOLD O<strong>UT</strong><br />
Saturday, October 7 . . . . . . .SALE . . . . . . . . . . Fall Plant Sale<br />
0<br />
Non-pr<strong>of</strong>it Org.<br />
US Postage<br />
PAID<br />
Knoxville, TN<br />
Permit No. 04<br />
In this Issue:<br />
From the <strong>UT</strong> <strong>Gardens</strong>’ President – p 2<br />
Blooms Days Highlights - pp 2-3<br />
Art for <strong>Gardens</strong> - p 4<br />
From the <strong>UT</strong> <strong>Gardens</strong>’ Director - pp 5-6<br />
News Briefs - pp 7-8<br />
From the <strong>UT</strong> <strong>Gardens</strong>’ Curator - p 9<br />
Blooms Days Photos - p 10<br />
Donors & Sponsors - p 11<br />
Blooms Days Volunteers - p 12<br />
Welcoming Midas - p 13<br />
Conifer Corner -p 14<br />
Secret Garden Parties - pp 15-17<br />
Question & Answer - p 18<br />
Calendar Reminders - p 18<br />
New & Re<strong>new</strong>ing Members - p 19