Bulletin Board
Plant of the Month
Wisteria
Wisteria sinensis
‘Prolific’
Wisteria is in a group of plants that seem to be marginal here in Moscow, and yet surprisingly do well in places with harsher climates. I believe the reason is a combination of our cold winters; but perhaps more importantly, our cool summer temperatures and lack of summer humidity. Although many locals might consider our summers to be quite warm, we definitely have cooler nighttime temperatures than much of the rest of the country. That makes for a pleasant climate for people; but, many plants would prefer warmer nights.
The Wisteria on the pergola is actually one of the first plants that I planted in the Arboretum when I started in 2000. It struggled for several years; and, it was moved to the current location in 2008.
The vine has done fairly well in the current spot; but, this is really the first year it has ever had a significant number of flowers. Wisteria will eventually grow into a very substantial, woody vine. They require a strong trellis or support to grow up and support their weight. I think they would do best here in Moscow if they were planted somewhere with some reflected heat, like a south or west wall.
Monthly Projects
I think May is pretty much the busiest month in anyone’s gardening calendar, and that is certainly true for the Arboretum. Along with trying to keep up with all the routine, mowing, weeding and watering, we also deal with our annual plant sale, planting all of our 500+ annual flowers and most of the new additions to the permanent plantings.
The plant sale continues to be an amazing success with people lined up outside the door to be the first customers. We sold over $11,000 worth of plants, most of which sold in the first hour and a half! Your support is greatly appreciated!
Upcoming Events
Science Saturdays in the Arboretum
Amphibians & Reptiles: Diversity in the City
Explore the Arboretum with Travis Seaborn and Meghan Parsley to learn about which amphibians and reptiles call the Arboretum their home!
Saturday, June 8 starting 9:45 a.m. at the Red Barn
Arboretum Associates Annual Concert
Monday, July 8 at 7 p.m.
Top of upper pond
