Jeffrey Preuss: Garden + Landscape http://jeffreypreuss.posterous.com Garden and Landscape Review posterous.com Fri, 17 Feb 2012 10:54:00 -0800 Kansas City changes plant hardiness zones! http://jeffreypreuss.posterous.com/kansas-city-changes-plant-hardiness-zones http://jeffreypreuss.posterous.com/kansas-city-changes-plant-hardiness-zones
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According to a recent article from the county extension agency, Kansas City is now considered Zone 6! For gardeners and landscapers, this opens your plant selection to more varieties that were tpically considered "southern".

Here are the new maps available for download: http://planthardiness.ars.usda.gov/PHZMWeb/Downloads.aspx

Here is the entire article:
New Map to Help Gardeners in Planting Choices
 
MANHATTAN, Kan. -- The new Plant Hardiness Zone Map released by the U.S. Department of Agriculture offers gardeners greater accuracy and detail about winter temperatures, in some cases changing zoning designations.

The map is designed to guide gardeners in choosing plants that will survive the winter by dividing the U.S. into temperature zones ranging from 1a to 13b. The zones are based on average extreme minimum temperatures. Zone 1a represents average extreme minimum temperatures of -60 to -55 degrees Fahrenheit, while zone 13b represents average extreme minimum temperatures of 65 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit.

The new map shifts many areas up the zoning scale, categorizing them as warmer than the previous map did. The USDA said this apparent warming trend is due to using data from a longer time period. This map replaces the 1990 map, which was based on only 13 years of data. The 2012 zoning map reflects nearly 30 years of data from 1976 to 2005.

Rebecca McMahon, K-State Research and Extension horticulture agent in Sedgwick County, said she is reminding gardeners this map does not offer advice on when to plant. Instead it tells gardeners what levels of hardiness they should look for in plants when designing their landscapes and gardens.

“Many gardeners have already figured it out,” said K-State Research and Extension horticulture agent Dennis Patton from Johnson County. “This new map just kind of reconfirmed what they already knew to be true about which plants tend to do well in their areas.”

Much of northeast Kansas shifted from zone 5a to 6a, meaning the average extreme minimum temperature is about 10 degrees warmer than the previous map indicated. Patton said he expects to see gardeners spreading their wings a little in terms of planting more zone 6 plants. However, if they want to plant something with longevity, such as a shade tree, he recommended selecting hardiness for zone 5 to ensure survival through extra cold winters..

McMahon said the new zoning designations will have little effect on plantings in southern Kansas.

“Southern and south central Kansas have changed from 6a to 6b—not a real drastic change,” she said. “Based on the new map data, some of those plants that are considered marginally hardy for zone 6 will potentially be more successful to grow here.”

McMahon and Patton emphasized the importance of remembering the map is a guide. “There is still the whole concept of the right plant in the right place,” Patton said. “Plants still need the right amount of sun, shade and water. The new map data suggests a few other plants are now potentially more durable in this climate.”

Patton also said cold hardiness is just one aspect of plant growth. Gardeners should also consider the heat tolerance of plants. The American Horticultural Society has a plant heat zone map that creates zones based on the average number of days per year an area has temperatures higher than 86 degrees Fahrenheit.

To see the USDA’s new Plant Hardiness Zone Map, go to www.planthardiness.ars.usda.gov.

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]]> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/1290813/jeffreypreuss.jpg http://posterous.com/users/5AfA04r3suMp Jeffrey Preuss jeffreypreuss Jeffrey Preuss Fri, 17 Feb 2012 06:48:50 -0800 EPIC Clay Studio http://jeffreypreuss.posterous.com/epic-clay-studio http://jeffreypreuss.posterous.com/epic-clay-studio
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A recent article in the Kansas City Star about a project that I have watched with anticipation! Their ability to maximize their results with very little money is commendable. I have seen anything as impressive! 

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]]> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/1290813/jeffreypreuss.jpg http://posterous.com/users/5AfA04r3suMp Jeffrey Preuss jeffreypreuss Jeffrey Preuss Tue, 07 Feb 2012 08:41:53 -0800 10,000 Garden Challenge http://jeffreypreuss.posterous.com/10000-garden-challenge http://jeffreypreuss.posterous.com/10000-garden-challenge
Missouri_gardens

Missouri is leading the charge in the local garden movement. What an excellent program to be involved in!
I hope previous and future clients will consider being a part of this program.

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]]> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/1290813/jeffreypreuss.jpg http://posterous.com/users/5AfA04r3suMp Jeffrey Preuss jeffreypreuss Jeffrey Preuss Fri, 03 Feb 2012 12:13:52 -0800 The (terrible) Truth about the Eisenhower Memorial http://jeffreypreuss.posterous.com/the-terrible-truth-about-the-eisenhower-memor http://jeffreypreuss.posterous.com/the-terrible-truth-about-the-eisenhower-memor
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I have found a website that discusses how the new Eisenhower Memorial in Washington, D.C. It is a truly sad affair, that even the wishes of his own family are being denied say in how the Memorial will look.

The truth is, Ike never cared much for Modernism. He is on record voicing his displeasure. Yet they build his signature monument as such?

Despite having two sitting Kansas Senators on the committee, the design process continues with the options of the family negated. This is a wrong that needs to be right. I hope other Kansans will help the Eisenhower Family.

Please take a look at this website: http://www.eisenhowermemorial.net/
The last tab "What you can do" helps give, easy and actionable items to show your support!

PS. On a side note, I watched the hour long video as they interviewed the Architect and Sculptor. Their condescension to "Ike" as the "barefoot boy" appalling to say the least. 

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]]> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/1290813/jeffreypreuss.jpg http://posterous.com/users/5AfA04r3suMp Jeffrey Preuss jeffreypreuss Jeffrey Preuss Wed, 25 Jan 2012 19:01:16 -0800 Fellow Kansans, the Eisenhower Family needs our support! http://jeffreypreuss.posterous.com/fellow-kansans-the-eisenhower-family-needs-ou http://jeffreypreuss.posterous.com/fellow-kansans-the-eisenhower-family-needs-ou
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You may (or may not) have heard about the proposed Eisenhower Memorial in Washington, D.C. Unfortunately, the design is a complete disaster in my opinion. The Eisenhower Family has made a few requests to make the Memorial honor the person it was intended, and not the ego of the Architect. 

I urge you to read the very fair assessment of the situation on the blog of Susan Eisenhower. Forward this link to other Kansans and other people who might be of interest and influence. Certainly someone amongst us can find a way to help?

Senator Pat Roberts and Senator Jerry Moran are both on the Memorial Commission! I know some of you know them quite well. http://eisenhowermemorial.org/menu.php?mid=29

Let us help the Eisenhower family and make this situation right. In many ways, Ike represents Kansas. Let us ensure a fair and appropriate dedication in his honor.

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]]> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/1290813/jeffreypreuss.jpg http://posterous.com/users/5AfA04r3suMp Jeffrey Preuss jeffreypreuss Jeffrey Preuss Tue, 24 Jan 2012 18:50:01 -0800 Interested in the Kansas City Home & Garden Design Competition? http://jeffreypreuss.posterous.com/interested-in-the-kansas-city-home-garden-des http://jeffreypreuss.posterous.com/interested-in-the-kansas-city-home-garden-des
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Would you enjoy showcasing an Award Winning landscape or garden at your home? Contact me to begin exploring a variety of unique design options for your home! To submit for this award, your project must be completed by JULY so let us get started TODAY!

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]]> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/1290813/jeffreypreuss.jpg http://posterous.com/users/5AfA04r3suMp Jeffrey Preuss jeffreypreuss Jeffrey Preuss Fri, 06 Jan 2012 13:33:40 -0800 The Urban Landscape http://jeffreypreuss.posterous.com/the-urban-landscape http://jeffreypreuss.posterous.com/the-urban-landscape
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]]> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/1290813/jeffreypreuss.jpg http://posterous.com/users/5AfA04r3suMp Jeffrey Preuss jeffreypreuss Jeffrey Preuss Sat, 31 Dec 2011 14:04:59 -0800 2012 New Year Resolution http://jeffreypreuss.posterous.com/2012-new-year-resolution http://jeffreypreuss.posterous.com/2012-new-year-resolution
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A comprehensive Landscape Master Plan! Let's make this year great!

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]]> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/1290813/jeffreypreuss.jpg http://posterous.com/users/5AfA04r3suMp Jeffrey Preuss jeffreypreuss Jeffrey Preuss Wed, 30 Nov 2011 13:38:00 -0800 Featured in Kansas City Home & Garden Magazine http://jeffreypreuss.posterous.com/featured-in-kansas-city-home-garden-magazine http://jeffreypreuss.posterous.com/featured-in-kansas-city-home-garden-magazine

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In the article of Kansas City home & Garden, "The Store Outside Your Door", by Jill Hilbrenner, you will find a small pocket garden with edible features. The trellis structure was built to break up the blank facade and provide support for flowering Clematis vines. Each trellis enframes espaliered apples. A hardy red and green apple variety were selected for best cross pollination. Other plants such as Hydrangea, Heuchera, and pockets of annuals will help fill in space over time. You can see the article on page 48 of the magazine, or visit it online at http://www.kchandg.com/edible-landscaping .

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]]> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/1290813/jeffreypreuss.jpg http://posterous.com/users/5AfA04r3suMp Jeffrey Preuss jeffreypreuss Jeffrey Preuss Sun, 13 Nov 2011 18:52:00 -0800 Opposites Attract: Landscape Design Trends 2012 http://jeffreypreuss.posterous.com/opposites-attract-landscape-design-trends-201 http://jeffreypreuss.posterous.com/opposites-attract-landscape-design-trends-201

The design world is always under a constant state of change. Sometimes the new design intention is obvious and immediate, others we question if design may even exist! This year, the RHS Chelsea Flower Show experienced such controversy. The Best Show Garden went to a design that showcases many of the trends we see occurring in the design world. Whether it was displayed in a cohesive and attractive fashion is up to the viewer.

 

The ongoing trend in landscape design nationwide has been the concept of “opposites attract” for a few years now. For example, modern elements are mixed with traditional figurines, crisp boxwood edges confine wild arrangements, and square forms mixed into curvilinear planting beds. These design statements still hold true but a few changes are starting to emerge.

 

1.      Landscaping with native plants is more acceptable now than ever. Mixing native varieties into a landscape full of traditional cultivars is a quick way to add durability and uniqueness to any garden.

2.      Narrow trees and shrubs are in great demand. Nurseries are working hard to develop upright varieties of almost every tree out there. With landscape space at a premium, this trend will not change any time soon.

3.      “Edible Landscapes” are becoming common practice. Whether you are planting fruit trees, or growing a vegetable garden, almost everyone is open to the idea. The same could not be said five years ago. People are beginning to understand the importance of buying local produce, which in turn encourages them to experiment on their own.

 

With the shifting economy, the most common local trend has been to renovate an existing landscape. People are planning on staying in their homes for longer durations, so creating a viable master plan is more important than ever. In a recent survey sponsored by the American Society for Landscape Architects, the three most popular requests were landscape lighting, firepits, and low maintenance landscapes.

 

The most significant local horticultural trend has been to add larger flashes of color throughout the mixed borders through both bloom and foliage. “There is a bit more demand for orange than in past years. It’s a great flower color combined with blue foliage plants; such as Mandarin Lights Exbury Azaleas and Sieboldiana Elegans Hosta.” says Susan Mertz of Loma Vista Nursery. Repeat bloomers such as the new Bloomerang Lilac are also quickly becoming popular.

 

Competition between local landscape companies has never been more intense. Fewer commercial landscapes are being installed, so many of the larger companies are moving their crews into residential work. This shift in work force has brought considerable savings to the homeowner. With plant prices at an all-time low and competition high, there has been no better time to have your landscape installed.

 

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]]> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/1290813/jeffreypreuss.jpg http://posterous.com/users/5AfA04r3suMp Jeffrey Preuss jeffreypreuss Jeffrey Preuss Sun, 13 Nov 2011 13:55:57 -0800 LIVE - Overland Park Arboretum http://jeffreypreuss.posterous.com/live-overland-park-arboretum http://jeffreypreuss.posterous.com/live-overland-park-arboretum
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On this sunny Fall afternoon, particularly liked the stone selection of the
terrace overlooking several smaller gardens. This Arboretum is free to
the public and fun for everyone.
Overland Park, Kansas, USA

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]]> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/1290813/jeffreypreuss.jpg http://posterous.com/users/5AfA04r3suMp Jeffrey Preuss jeffreypreuss Jeffrey Preuss Tue, 01 Nov 2011 05:42:00 -0700 Jeffrey Preuss Landscapes Introduction http://jeffreypreuss.posterous.com/jeffrey-preuss-landscapes-introduction http://jeffreypreuss.posterous.com/jeffrey-preuss-landscapes-introduction

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]]> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/1290813/jeffreypreuss.jpg http://posterous.com/users/5AfA04r3suMp Jeffrey Preuss jeffreypreuss Jeffrey Preuss Fri, 28 Oct 2011 11:39:00 -0700 Understanding the Landscape Profession http://jeffreypreuss.posterous.com/understanding-the-landscape-profession http://jeffreypreuss.posterous.com/understanding-the-landscape-profession

The landscape profession is a diverse mixture of skills and services that frequently confuse people. The design approach to each landscape or garden will change significantly depending on who you select to assist you in the process. This article will help form a common definition for each title found in the landscape industry. Each title has a unique approach despite some of the shared responsibilities and exceptions found throughout each group.

Landscape Architect-A Landscape Architect has received a degree in Landscape Architecture and has been licensed in the state of which they practice. They are generally “big idea” people and tend to have an engineered approach to solving landscape problems. The strong suite of this group is generally in large-scale master plans for institutional or commercial design. Some become specialized in areas such as streetscapes or green roof design. Although they are familiar with plant material, it is generally not their strong point.       

Landscape Designer- Although many Landscape Designers have a professional degree, it is not required. The background of each individual tends to vary considerably, and their approach to design can be equally as diverse in style and capability. The Landscape Designer is most commonly found in residential work. Some are independent designers, while others work for a Design/Build company.

Garden Designers- Much like Landscape Designers in ability and background, this group focuses exclusively on one aspect of the landscape. Their approach tends to be based on plant material and not on the actual spatial planning aspects of a design.

Horticulturalist- They are the “doctors” of the entire plant world. Their formal education background enables them to understand all plants, their propagation, and diagnosing problems as they occur. They are usually found working in the Nursery industry or a large Design/Build company. Many of them do not have a background in design.

Landscapers- This group of people will be doing the heavy lifting to help install the project. They run the tractors, kick the shovels, and adjust irrigation heads. Each individual person and company has a different approach to installing landscapes and much of it is self-taught.

Gardeners- Similar to the Landscaper, this group is skilled at not only installing but maintaining gardens. They understand some aspects of plant propagation and enjoy following the trends of the horticultural industry.

            The loose definitions of each category should help you in understanding the skills and services of each profession. But keep in mind there is considerable crossover between the professions. For example, I received a degree in Landscape Architecture and practiced it for many years. Along the way, I gravitated towards small scale garden design. My experience and background has covered all of the above skillsets, but I use the term “Landscape Designer”. As you can see, the landscape industry is a diverse as its plant material. Always, Always, Always interview the landscape professional before beginning your project. Using the listed format listed above, you should be able to understand who is right for you based of portfolio examples that they bring to the initial meeting. 

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]]> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/1290813/jeffreypreuss.jpg http://posterous.com/users/5AfA04r3suMp Jeffrey Preuss jeffreypreuss Jeffrey Preuss Wed, 26 Oct 2011 12:04:33 -0700 Feuding Rivalry - Horticulture Humor http://jeffreypreuss.posterous.com/feuding-rivalry-horticulture-humor http://jeffreypreuss.posterous.com/feuding-rivalry-horticulture-humor
Falltrees

I was at a jobsite yesterday and realized one tree was planted by a Missouri Tiger and the other by a Kansas Jayhawk. Same family, same tree but they just don't get along.

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]]> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/1290813/jeffreypreuss.jpg http://posterous.com/users/5AfA04r3suMp Jeffrey Preuss jeffreypreuss Jeffrey Preuss Wed, 12 Oct 2011 11:54:34 -0700 LIVE from the Demonstration Gardens! http://jeffreypreuss.posterous.com/live-from-the-demonstration-gardens http://jeffreypreuss.posterous.com/live-from-the-demonstration-gardens
Gardens

Gardens are maintained by the Master Gardeners of Johnson County, Kansas. 
Home to the Kansas State Research and Extension Office. Beautiful work!

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]]> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/1290813/jeffreypreuss.jpg http://posterous.com/users/5AfA04r3suMp Jeffrey Preuss jeffreypreuss Jeffrey Preuss Tue, 11 Oct 2011 04:50:00 -0700 Site & Landscape Design Assistance http://jeffreypreuss.posterous.com/site-landscape-design-assistance http://jeffreypreuss.posterous.com/site-landscape-design-assistance
I enjoy helping others with my talents in landscape design, site planning, and perspective drawings when the opportunities arise. In less than two weeks, I will have another opening in my schedule to help your nonprofit or religious organization with any of these items.

Previous organizations I have assisted can attest to the power of a well-crafted master plan. Each project includes site plans drawn in AutoCAD and hand drawings that illustrate critical views on or off the site. Creative drawings will provide greater interest in your project, which in turn helps with fundraising and budgetary itemization. 

If you know of an organization in need of assistance, please do not hesitate to ask! I do not ask for, nor expect anything in return.  

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]]> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/1290813/jeffreypreuss.jpg http://posterous.com/users/5AfA04r3suMp Jeffrey Preuss jeffreypreuss Jeffrey Preuss Sun, 09 Oct 2011 00:26:27 -0700 Quick Memo! http://jeffreypreuss.posterous.com/quick-memo http://jeffreypreuss.posterous.com/quick-memo
The art scene in Kansas City is taking off. Glad to be apart of it!

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]]> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/1290813/jeffreypreuss.jpg http://posterous.com/users/5AfA04r3suMp Jeffrey Preuss jeffreypreuss Jeffrey Preuss Wed, 05 Oct 2011 12:09:45 -0700 Gardening Questions? Ask Dennis! http://jeffreypreuss.posterous.com/gardening-questions-ask-dennis http://jeffreypreuss.posterous.com/gardening-questions-ask-dennis
A great resource for all of your gardening questions is Dennis Patton, with the Kansas State Research and Extension. Questions can be submitted to the follwoing website: 

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]]> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/1290813/jeffreypreuss.jpg http://posterous.com/users/5AfA04r3suMp Jeffrey Preuss jeffreypreuss Jeffrey Preuss Mon, 19 Sep 2011 13:26:31 -0700 Kauffman Performing Arts Center - Opening Weekend. http://jeffreypreuss.posterous.com/kauffman-performing-arts-center-opening-weeke http://jeffreypreuss.posterous.com/kauffman-performing-arts-center-opening-weeke
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In Kansas City, I am hearing overall positive feedback about the opening of the $440 Million, Performing Arts Center. As I have heard the consensus goes like this: Everyone is impressed with the scale of the project, while some are not overly excited about the style and form of the structure. Everyone is impressed with the interior design and acoustics, while the landscape is extremely lacking.  

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]]> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/1290813/jeffreypreuss.jpg http://posterous.com/users/5AfA04r3suMp Jeffrey Preuss jeffreypreuss Jeffrey Preuss Sun, 28 Aug 2011 16:55:18 -0700 Big Creek Arboretum & Garden Demonstration Trials http://jeffreypreuss.posterous.com/big-creek-arboretum-garden-demonstration-tria http://jeffreypreuss.posterous.com/big-creek-arboretum-garden-demonstration-tria
The Big Creek Arboretum has been an ongoing project that is making significant progress in Hays, Kansas. Located along the southern edge of Hays, Kansas, the proposed arboretum will educate and inspire people with a plant palette appropriate to the western High Plains region of Kansas. The trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants serve as a living example to its visitors through a self-guided walking tour. The Prairie Star Annual Flower Performance Trials are also located on site. These wonderful displays are always great examples of new floral and vegetable varieties available to the region.

This project is currently being led by Joesph Becker, with the Kansas State University Agriculture Research Center. A considerable amount of work remains to be done. If you are interested in contributing your resources to this project, he can be reached at 785-625-3425, extension 222. With your help, the Arboretum can become a significant cultural amenity to the citizens of Hays and the surrounding High Plains region.

Bigcreekarboretum Garden-demo-trials
See the full gallery on Posterous

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]]> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/1290813/jeffreypreuss.jpg http://posterous.com/users/5AfA04r3suMp Jeffrey Preuss jeffreypreuss Jeffrey Preuss