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Seedling Swap
We had an absolutely beautiful day for our first ever Seedling Swap on May 18. Hundreds of plants went out into the community and we couldn’t be happier to see it! A special thanks to the organizations and individuals that contributed seedlings for our swap: NEW Master Gardeners, NWTC Bounty Garden, Peggy Loritz and Lynn Michel. Thank you!!!
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Transplanting 101
What is Transplanting?
When we refer to “transplanting,” we mean the act of moving seedlings or small plants from their pots outside into the garden soil. Some vegetables are challenging to start from seed or take too long if sown in place in our climate, so we may choose to use already started plants or plant indoors early. Keep in mind that some vegetables (and flowers) are NOT cut out for transplanting or being moved; they are best and most easily sown by seed directly in the ground.
When to Transplant
When to transplant depends on the plant. Some plants, such as spinach, are cool-season crops, which means that they should be planted before outdoor temperatures get too warm. Others, like tomatoes and peppers, are warm-season crops and can be weakened by too-cool air temperatures. The temperature of the soil is important, too!
Don’t rush it! Earlier isn’t necessarily better, and cold temperatures will slow growth rates. Keep an eye on local weather forecasts as you prepare for transplanting. If a serious cold snap is imminent, hold off on transplanting until temperatures are more agreeable.
Preparing the Garden and the Plants
When the weather looks like it’s taking a turn for the better, start getting your garden ready for transplanting into the soil!
- Loosen and amend soil. Your garden soil may have become compacted over winter, so loosen and aerate the soil before planting. Remove any rocks or roots of weeds. Work in plenty of organic matter to about a shovel’s depth to help the soil retain moisture, drain well, and allow easy penetration by seedling roots.
- Avoid walking on the soil by creating paths or boards to stand on. Walking on the soil compacts it, making it more difficult for small roots, water, and air to penetrate.
- Harden-off plants. Any seedlings or start plants that are coming from the indoors to the outdoors must go through a gradual transition, or they’ll go through shock. Start by watering the plants thoroughly. Then, 7 to 10 days before transplanting, set the seedlings outdoors in dappled shade that is protected from wind for a few hours each day, gradually increasing their exposure to full sun and windy conditions. This will get them better accustomed to eventually living full-time outdoors.
- Keep the soil moist at all times during the hardening-off period. Dry air and spring breezes can result in rapid water loss.
Transplanting from Pot to Soil in 10 Easy Steps
If possible, transplant on a warm, overcast day in the early morning. This gives the plants a chance to settle into the soil without being instantly exposed to the intense midday sun.
- Check soil moisture. Soil should be moist but not soaking wet. Water deeply a day before working the soil if needed.
- Dig a planting hole that’s a little bit bigger than the plant’s root ball and about as deep.
- Turn the pot upside down while supporting the soil side with your other hand, being careful not to crush or drop the plant. Tap the bottom of the pot to help the seedling out.
- Place the seedling in the planting hole at the same depth that it was growing in the pot. You should be able to cover the seedling with about ¼ inch of soil. Fill in with soil around the rootball. The exception of this is tomatoes, which can be planted so that only the top set of leaves is above ground level.
- Gently tamp down the soil around the seedling so there’s good contact between the seedling’s roots and the soil.
- Spread mulch to reduce moisture loss, prevent erosion, reduce weeds and moderate extreme temperatures.
- Soak the soil around new seedlings immediately after transplanting in order to settle the roots, eliminate air pockets, and reduce the potential of transplant shock.
- A few days after transplanting, fertilize if desired with a starter fertilizer to ensure that phosphorus—which promotes strong root development—is available in the root zone of new transplants.
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Watch the forecast for late spring frosts and plan to protect your plants accordingly. Cloches, cold frames, or sheets can be used to protect plants. Be sure to remove protective coverings in the morning.
After you transplant, keep the soil bed moist. Water gently with a watering can at the soil level. Until the plants are well established, water often enough (usually about once a day) so that the soil surface never dries out, but remains constantly moist.
Information sourced from almanac.com
Submitted by Melissa, N.E.W. Master Gardener
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Book Review
Bringing Nature Home: How You Can Sustain Wildlife with Native Plants
Authored by: Douglas W. Tallamy
Tallamy’s Bringing Nature Home may beckon you, as a steward of your growing spaces, to incorporate native plants into your garden. Tallamy uses stories, scientific data, and his own experiences to inspire readers to consider ways our urban and suburban landscapes can sustain native wildlife. The conversation focused on the importance of preserving our native habitats has been increasing in the spaces where people are talking about gardens.
Following Tallamy’s pleas to join the action, he outlines ways to overcome some of the possible hurdles to doing so such as the size of the space; cost in terms of time and money; and lists of what to plant. Bringing Nature Home contains colorful photos of the diverse wildlife that are supported by native plants, and lists and charts that will help readers get started or continue their journey in their gardens.
Bringing Nature Home is available on our Libby app.
In addition to books, Brown County Library offers gardeners digital information resources and hosts the Brown County Seed Library, Cellcom Children’s Edible Garden, and a variety of garden-related events and workshops. Please check our website for resource and event information.
Submitted by: Jennifer Classon, Brown County Central Library, Associate and N.E.W. Master Gardener
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One Seed, One Community
If you have not planted your Sugar Ann Snap Peas, it is not too late. Join the community in growing these plants to harvest the seeds, and return the seeds to the Brown County Seed Library. You will probably want to sample a few, as they are so delicious to eat right off the vine.
To grow peas, sow the seeds directly into the garden bed or a container. Space seeds about 1 to 2 inches apart and plant them 1 inch deep. Remember to water regularly, although Mother Nature has been doing a great job so far this year. This variety of pea is 56-70 days until harvest. Remember to take precautions for others that love these plants. Chicken wire does wonders to keep critters out, and crushed eggs shells or setting up a barrier like a paper tube around each plant helps to prevent slug demolition.
Help us become sustainable by growing and harvesting Sugar Ann Snap Peas for the Brown County Seed Library.
Submitted by Peggy, NEW Master Gardener
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Focus 5 Demo in the CEG
Reminder: While we accept all donations, this year we are asking our seed stewards to focus on these 5 seeds for saving. They will also be growing in the Children's Edible Garden at the Central Library.
- Scarlet Runner Bean
- Riesentraube Cherry Tomato
- Pimento Sweet Pepper
- Muncher Cucumber
- Sugar Ann Pea
There will be opportunities on Tuesday nights from 6pm - 7:30pm to join Master Gardeners in the Children’s Edible Garden and ask questions; starting June 11.
We hope to see you in the garden!
Submitted by Melissa, N.E.W. Master Gardener
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Plant Profile: Marigold
Marigolds, known for their bright and cheerful blooms, belong to the genus Tagetes. These hardy annuals are native to the Americas, particularly in Mexico and Central America. Our marigold seeds are a mix of different varieties of marigolds that have been grown here in Brown County. These plants are easy to grow, tolerant of poor soil and infrequent watering, and make great companion plants for several garden vegetables.
Marigolds prefer full sun and well drained soil. Seeds can be started in place in the garden or indoors 3-4 weeks before the last expected frost and transplanted. Marigolds are excellent at attracting various pollinators and supporting garden biodiversity. Several butterfly species, including the Monarch (Danaus plexippus) and the Painted Lady (Vanessa cardui), are attracted to marigold blooms for nectar. Both native bees and honeybees are frequent visitors, aiding in the pollination of nearby plants.
Renowned for their benefits as companion plants, marigolds can enhance the growth of other plants and help manage pests. The roots of marigolds secrete a substance that deters nematodes, microscopic worms that can damage plant roots. Their strong scent can also repel aphids, mosquitoes, and even rabbits. They are frequently planted with tomatoes and peppers, but can be planted with almost any garden crops.
By integrating marigolds into a garden, not only do you add a splash of vibrant color, but you also foster a healthier, more resilient ecosystem. Their low-maintenance nature, combined with their multitude of benefits, makes marigolds an invaluable addition to both vegetable and flower gardens. Leave a few blooms to dry on the plant and you can easily harvest the seeds for next year's flowers.
Submitted by Melissa, N.E.W. Master Gardener
OpenAI. (2023)
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Calendar of Local Garden Related Events:
June 1, 9am - 2pm ($)
Wild Ones Plant Sale
Stone Silo Prairie Garden, 2325 Oak Ridge Cir, De Pere
June 1, 10am - 4pm (free)
Full Circle Organic Experience Field Day
W2407 Hofa Park Road, Seymour
June 5, 5pm - 6pm (free)
Weed With a Master Gardener
210 Museum Pl, Green Bay
June 5, 6:30pm - 7:30pm (free)
Garden Watch Party, Under-Appreciated Pollinators
Watch Party at Central Library
June 8, 10:30am - 11:15am (free)
Seed Steward Training in the Children's Edible Garden
515 Pine St, Green Bay
June 11, 6pm - 7:30pm (free)
Evenings in the Children’s Edible Garden
515 Pine St, Green Bay
June 12, 5pm - 7pm (free)
Weed & Feed
2600 Larsen Rd, Green Bay
June 17, 1pm - 2pm (free)
Ask the Experts: A Monthly Garden and Landscape Q&A Series
Virtual, UW Extension
June 17-23
National Pollinator Week!
June 18, 6pm - 7:30pm (free)
Sunflower Celebration, an Edible Garden Adventure
Evenings in the Children’s Edible Garden
515 Pine St, Green Bay
June 18, 6:30pm - 8pm (free)
The Pollination of Native Plants
Virtual, UW Extension
June 19, 12pm - 1pm (free)
Balancing Act in the Home Garden:
Protecting Pollinators while Managing Pests
Virtual, UW Extension
June 25, 6pm - 7:30pm (free)
Sweet Peas, Creepy Carrots and a Giant Rabbit?!: An Edible Garden Adventure
Evenings in the Children’s Edible Garden
515 Pine St, Green Bay
June 26, 5:30pm - 8:30pm (free)
Two Residential Garden Tours with the Gardeners Club of Green Bay
1369 Cherry Street, Green Bay from 5:30 - 6:30pm
1147 Porlier Street, Green Bay from 6:30 - 8:30pm
June 26, 6:30pm - 7:30pm ($)
Backyard Composting: Ready, Set, Grow!
[Pre-recorded Webinar] UM Horticultural Society
June 26, 6:30pm - 8:30pm (free)
Plant Diseases in History
Virtual, UW Extension
July 2, 6pm - 7:30pm (free)
Evenings in the Children’s Edible Garden
515 Pine St, Green Bay
July 9, 5pm - 7pm (free)
NEW Master Gardener Locktender Open House
Voyageur Park, De Pere
July 9, 6pm - 7:30pm (free)
Evenings in the Children’s Edible Garden
515 Pine St, Green Bay
July 12, 10am - 11am (free)
Caterpillars and Creepy Crawlies: An Edible Garden Adventure
515 Pine St, Green Bay
July 15 - Aug 31 ($)
Registration open for Foundations in Gardening 2024
Virtual, UW Extension
July 16, 6pm - 7:30pm (free)
Evenings in the Library's Edible Garden
515 Pine St, Green Bay
July 17, 6pm - 7:30pm ($)
Wildflower Walk
2600 Larsen Rd, Green Bay
July 17, 6:30pm - 7:30pm (free)
Wild Ones Tour of LaLuzerne residence, Certified Wildlife Habitat
4238 Pouwels Ct, De Pere, WI
July 20, 9am - 3pm ($)
2nd Annual Garden Walk with the Gardeners Club of Green Bay
Map of Garden Sites
July 22, 1pm - 2pm (free)
Ask the Experts: A Monthly Garden and Landscape Q&A Series
Virtual, UW Extension
July 23, 1:30pm - 4pm ($)
Tsyunhehkwa Farm Tour
139 Riverdale Drive, Oneida
July 23, 6pm - 7:30pm (free)
Evenings in the Library's Edible Garden
515 Pine St, Green Bay
July 24, 12pm - 1pm (free)
The Role of Moths in Our Ecosystems
Virtual, UW Extension
July 24, 6:30pm - 8:30pm (free)
Ten Diseases of Native Plants (and Non-Natives, Too)
Virtual, UW Extension
July 30, 6pm - 7:30pm (free)
Evenings in the Library's Edible Garden
Saving Seeds: Why and How; Seed Steward Training
515 Pine St, Green Bay
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Featured Recipe
Asparagus-Stuffed Chicken Breast by Tasty
Ingredients
3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon lemon zest
9 asparagus, ends trimmed
3 slices provolone cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon olive oil
Preparation
- Preheat oven to 425 ̊F.
- On a cutting board, cut the chicken breasts in half, lengthwise, leaving it intact on one side
- Season the inside of the chicken with salt and pepper.
- Sprinkle the lemon zest on the interior of the chicken. Top with piece of provolone and three stalks of asparagus, then fold the chicken over enclosing the filling.
- Season the outside of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat, and add the oil. Add the chicken to the pan, and cook for 3 to 5 minutes, until golden brown.
- Flip the chicken over and cook for an additional 3 to 5 minutes.
- Cover the skillet with aluminum foil and place in the oven for 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 155 ̊F.
- Remove the skillet and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
- Remove the foil, and serve.
Submitted by Peggy, N.E.W. Master Gardener
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Support the BCSL!
We are entirely supported by grants, donations and volunteers! If you are interested, there are many ways to support the BCSL.
*You can become a Seed Steward and support the library by growing out seeds from our core list to donate. We will accept seed donations by anyone who would like to donate, seeds can be dropped off at the STEM center or at the Central library.
*You can volunteer to sort and pack seeds. Opportunities will be posted on the New Leaf Foods Calendar of Events, included in our newsletters and posted with the Volunteer Center of Brown County.
*You can make a monetary donation through our Fiscal Agent, New Leaf Foods. Click here to donate.
*You can visit our Amazon Wish List, which has basic packing supplies that we utilize for preparing our seeds for distribution. Click here to access the wishlist.
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