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Top 7 Signature Fall Container Plants

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Dreaming about fall colors, cool autumn temperatures, and pumpkin-flavored everything? As we near our colorful fall season and the temperature begins to drop at night, now is the time to start thinking about your fall containers! Keep an eye out for plants with a disposition toward fall blooming and a tolerance for cooler temperatures so you can dress up your front door or back patio with beautiful color and excitement that lasts! Here are our Top 7 Signature Fall Container Plants! These plants are “signature” fall plants certain to bring color, texture, and beauty to your fall containers.

  1. Ornamental Kale and Cabbage. There are numerous varieties of kale and cabbage with various shades of green, pink, and purple. They are very cold weather tolerant, and the color will become even more prominent as the temperature continues to fall. While kale has a spikier texture and cabbage is rounder, both will bring delightful color and texture to your fall planters

2) Mums. Available in a variety of your classic fall colors including red, yellow, and orange, mums are a fall staple. Typically controlled by growers to encourage fall blooming, these dense plants display beautiful round blooms that are rich in color. While it can be overwintered as a perennial it functions primarily as an annual.

3) Coral Bells. A very hardy perennial plant, coral bells come in a large range of colors and leaf textures. While they can be beautiful on their own, they look gorgeous in the fall when paired with gourds, mums, and ornamental grasses. Be creative with how you organize your planter and the other fall decorations around it!

4) Hen and Chick Succulents. These hardy succulents provide unique texture paired with numerous colors both sharp and muted. They add extra interest to containers with their unique shape and color. The little “chicks” can easily be propagated to be planted in new containers and even in the ground. Leave them outside or bring them in… these plants are tough!

5) Mirror Plants. Known for their glossy leaves, these fall beauties bring stunning shades of pink, gold and burgundy. They are also very frost hardy, making them the perfect addition to your fall container.

6) Creeping Wire Vine. This dark stemmed annual with small green leaves makes a great spiller in your container or creeping ground cover. Pair it with some of the other fall plants in this list and watch it cascade over the side of your container, creating an arrangement full of texture and variety.

7) Ornamental Grasses. Grasses are a great way to add some extra height to your fall planters. They make a great “thriller” that can grab attention while bringing some color, texture and beautiful movement.

Don’t forget about the pumpkins, gourds, hay bales, and corn! Pair your new containers with other signature fall decorations to create a hearty fall feeling that makes us all dream of grandma’s fresh baked pumpkin pies. Have fun, try something different, and do not be afraid to ask for help! We would love to help you design your fall container! Stop by today for gorgeous fall plants and expert advice!

Landscaping Management 101: September

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As we enter into September, the heat of summer will finally begin to diminish as we enjoy cooler evening temperatures. The cooler temperatures create a great opportunity for some transplanting, sowing grass seed, and utilizing various herbicides as we continue to enjoy harvesting various fruits and vegetables. Let’s dive into our September Landscape Management 101.

EARLY SEPTEMBER

  • Divide spring and summer-flowering perennials.  These include peonies, daylilies, irises, oriental poppies, phlox, and many others. However, if the plant is currently blooming then it should not be divided.
  • September is a great time to plant evergreen trees!
  • Trim “Bleeder” trees such as Birch, Maple, and Elm.
  • Control broadleaf weeds in the lawn with appropriate application. Either spot treat or apply weed and feed products.
  • Seed bare spots in lawn, sow lawn seed, and/or install sod.
  • Plant spring-flowering bulbs (Tulips, Daffodils, Crocus, Hyacinth).
  • Take cuttings of shade-loving flowering annuals and herbs for growing indoors throughout the winter if desired.

MID SEPTEMBER

  • Bring house plants back indoors. Keep an eye out for insects! One way to minimize insects is to give the plant a good blast of water before bringing it inside.
  • Continue to plant spring-blooming bulbs.
  • Aerate lawn if desired to smooth out bumpy lawns, allow air and moisture to penetrate root zone, and breakdown thatch layer.
  • Harvest tender vegetables before frost.

LATE SEPTEMBER

  • Many late apple varieties can be harvested.
  • Harvest dahlias and other summer bulbs after a killing frost – when plants turn black.
  • Collect dried flowers for fall arrangements.
  • While most trees will not start losing leaves quite yet, make sure to rake up and remove any leaves affected by fungal or bacterial diseases.

As always we are here for you! Stop by with your questions or to pick up necessary fertilizers and herbicides today!

Buying a Fire Table? Consider These 8 Things!

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The demand for fire tables has escalated greatly in recent years due to their function as a patio centerpiece that creates both ambiance and warmth. They are quickly becoming the next “must have” for anyone with a backyard patio. Yet, there are many different price points, styles, and options. How do you choose? Here are our top 8 things you should consider.

  1. Location. With any fire feature you will want to start by considering the location. Is it a straight-lined patio or free-flowing? How much space do you have? Will you move the table? If it is something that will move around, you may also want to consider a lighter material. A table too large for your space may result in guests falling off the patio while a table too small will leave an awkward amount of open space. You should also consider how many people will typically be sitting around the table. Are you sitting on one side overlooking your backyard or are you looking to wrap people around a circular table?
  2. Functionality. How are you going to use the table? Most fire tables will include or have an optional burner cover. Do you plan to dine on the table or use it to play cards? If you are looking to dine, you could even get a dining table with a fire feature. If you are looking to have people stand around and chat, you may want to consider a higher fire table that people could comfortably place drinks on or lean up against. If you are looking for a cozy atmosphere, you may instead want to consider a fireplace. A fireplace can cozy up a patio while also providing more height and possible protection from wind.
  3. Material and Style. Fire tables come in a huge variety of materials such as polyethylene, aluminum, granite, stone, and wicker. Consider the durability of the material, whether or not it will fade, and the atmosphere you are striving to create. For example, a wicker table will often create a more tropical feel while a sleek glass or granite top will appear much more modern. When buying you should also pay attention to little details such as what type of stainless steel is used for the burner. 
  4. Fuel Source. The most common fuel sources are wood, propane, and natural gas. While the natural crackle and smell of wood is awesome, it is also messier. Natural gas removes the burden of replacing a propane tank, but it requires a gas line and removes mobility. Propane is the most popular fuel providing mobility and also a clean burn.
  5. BTU Output. British Thermal Output refers to the heat that the flame will provide. Higher BTU means more heat. Many tables allow for flame (and thus temperature) adjustment. While varying levels of adjustability exist, having the ability to create ambiance without too much heat on a warmer night or large flames on a cool night is worth the cost of an upper-end fire table.
  6. “Fire Media.” Fire media refers to what is inside the burner. Most fire tables come with clear tempered glass stones, but you could also add lava rock, gas logs, and different colored gems or crushed glass. Utilizing different fire media can create a more unique feel and provide another opportunity to tie the fire table into your existing landscaping.
  7. Safety and Durability. While safety restrictions are increasing, it is a good idea to consider the safety standards of the tables that interest you. Look for tables that are safety tested and listed by UL LLC. This will ensure the table has safety features such as shutting off when the flame is put out by extreme wind. Many tables made overseas are less likely to follow these safety precautions. Another element of safety is durability. Look for companies that offer a warranty and stand behind their products.
  8. Price. Whenever you make a purchase, you should consider the price and have an idea of your budget. While a fire table can be a large investment, spending a little bit more up front will provide much greater quality, longevity, and overall satisfaction. Budget wisely, but make sure you know what you are buying when you make an investment!

Whether you know exactly what style you want or you need to explore the options, our knowledgeable staff is here to help you bring home the perfect fire feature for your patio. Stop in to our showroom, take a look at our website (https://www.vandeheys.com/services/retail/fire-tables/) or give us a call to take the next step in perfecting your backyard haven.

The ‘Ferrari of Grills’: What’s the Deal with the Big Green Egg?

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Most people have at least heard of the Big Green Egg (BGE). The signature green color and egg shape make it unique amongst all other grills but the appearance is just the beginning of what makes the BGE the ‘Ferrari” of grills’. Simply stated, the BGE stands alone as the highest quality and most versatile outdoor cooking product on the market. Here’s why…

Versatility. The BGE is a grill, roaster, smoker, and an oven all in one that can be used year-round. Whether you are smoking at 200°F for up to 18 hours, baking at 350°F, or searing steaks at 750°F the BGE can do it all. With the BGE there is also no need for rotisserie because it cooks evenly from all four sides.

Unrivaled Results. Not only does the ceramic core make the grill incredibly efficient but it also holds moisture and flavor in your food unlike any other grill.  The BGE lump charcoal made from 100% natural oak and hickory sourced in the USA provides natural flavor without the use of harmful chemicals and lighter fluid.

Precision Temperature Control. BGE’s patented air flow systems allow precise temperature control from 150°F to 750°F. The unique shape cooks perfectly evenly while holding a constant temperature.  With EGGGenius you can also control your grill temperature and monitor your meat by degree directly from your phone.

EGGcessories. Punny, we know, but with BGE you will have an extensive line of accessories from baking stones all the way to pigtail flippers. These professional grade add-ons will enhance your cooking experience and make you look like a backyard hero while the EGG does all the real work.

Low Maintenance. BGE’s unique green glaze stands up to the elements and wipes off easily without the addition of chemical cleaners. Every few cooks EGGcessories such as the Stainless-Steel Fire Bowl and Ash Tool make it easy to clean out the small amount of soot that collects in the bottom.

Lifetime Warranty. Your investment in an EGG is protected by a successful company with a worldwide reputation for unmatched customer service. You will never need or want a new grill again (unless of course you want a second EGG).

If you are still unsure about the EGG, sign up for a grill class and experience the results yourself. You will be glad you did.

“The Ultimate Cooking Experience” is right here at Vande Hey Company. Stop by today and ask our EGGsperts about the Big Green Egg to see for yourself.

Landscaping Management 101: August

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One more month of heat to go before things start cooling off! Luckily, August brings a lighter workload with a focus on continuing basic upkeep and spraying your favorite plants regularly to protect them until the feeding frenzy ends. Once the night temperatures begin to drop later in September many pests will return to the ground and your battle against pests will diminish.

EARLY AUGUST

  • Keep garden weeds from going to seed.
  • Continue to monitor aphids as they will show up all season long. Combat with a strong blast of water or insecticidal soap.
  • Continue controlling cucumber beetles that spread bacterial wilt with weekly dusts of insecticides.
  • Avoid pruning trees and shrubs because the new growth may not harden off in time for winter.
  • Enjoy harvesting your fruit and vegetables regularly to avoid attracting more pests with overripe fruit.

MID AUGUST

  • Disbud dahlias for extra-large flowers.
  • Prune out old raspberry canes to prepare for next year and avoid disease. Leave 3-4 canes per foot of row.
  • Divide Iris and check for rhizome rots. Destroy all infected plants.
  • Continue watering flower beds once a week in dry periods.
  • Harvest early apples.
  • Dig early potatoes as vines die down.

LATE AUGUST

  • Continue to maintain spray program on fruit trees.
  • Harvest pears as they become light green.
  • Divide spring flowering perennials.
  • Now is a great time to seed or sod new lawns or repair damaged areas in existing lawns.
  • Continue deadheading to prepare for a final late-season flower display.

Have questions? Not sure which insecticide to use? Call or stop by Vande Hey Company today and we can give suggestions, recommend products, and walk with you as you continue striving towards your backyard dream oasis. Call 920.788.6344 today!

A Moment to Thank Our Honeybees

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Let’s take a moment to thank our hardworking honeybees (Apis mellifera) and their dedication to pollinating our flowers! 

Bees are often considered the most important pollinators, with honeybees accounting for 84% of all insect pollination.  These flying golden beauties are particularly good pollinators due to pollen-collecting structures on their bodies: the scopa (or pollen basket) which holds pollen balls on their hind legs; the corbicula, a fuzzy mat of hair that gathers pollen when traveling from flower to flower; and the crop (or honey stomach) which holds nectar as they travel from flower to flower. 

Bee species also display floral constancy, staying within the same type of flower to collect pollen. This is important in orchards, where many farmers rely on bees to pollinate their fruit trees and vegetables’ flowers. 

If you are looking to promote our favorite pollinators, consider the most attractive flower traits in the eyes of a honeybee. Of all colors, honeybees can see shades of yellows and violets the best, making yellow and blue-purple flowers a great addition to any pollinator garden. Like us, honeybees enjoy fresh, mild, and pleasant floral aromas, and flowers with plenty of nectar. Purple bee balm, coneflower, and New England asters are common honeybee favorites.

Pollinator decline is a major concern for all species of insects, bats, and birds which pollinate our flowers. The causes of Colony Collapse Disorder in honeybees is a combination of pests and pathogens introduced to the hive, poor nutrition, pesticide use, and habitat fragmentation. The best way that homeowners and businesses can help honeybee populations is to plant more flowers and reduce pesticide use on your property. 

Luckily, the Vande Hey Company has plenty of perennials, annuals, and even flowering trees that your local honeybees will adore!

Pool Care and Chemical Maintenance: The Basics

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Unbalanced pool chemicals lead to water that will not only irritate and itch but also can cause damage to the pool. Slimy algae, stains, scale, and corroding pool equipment do not have to be part of owning a pool and maintaining chemicals does not have to be super complicated. Read more for some basic information about how to care for your pool and what all the different tests mean!

Basic pool care can be broken down into three simple steps:

  1. Sanitize routinely for a crystal-clear pool.
  2. Shock routinely to restore pool’s luster.
  3. Be proactive to prevent algae and other buildups.

What chemicals does my pool need? While there are many factors that determine how much chemicals a pool will need, regular testing will ensure you are achieving balanced water levels and maximum swimmer comfort. A pool will typically need more chemicals early in the season to balance the water and then fewer chemicals to maintain balance. Being proactive early in the season will help you save money on chemicals in the long run. At Vande Hey Company, we provide free pool testing and can recommend the necessary chemical quantities in order to achieve the perfect pool water. We recommend doing a complete test every 2-3 weeks and using strip testing intermittently to continue monitoring.

Desired Chemical Ranges:

What do my chemicals mean?

  • pH refers to the measure of acids and bases that exist in the water. Too much acidity in water will cause corrosion of pool surfaces and equipment while water that is too basic will result in scaling, deposits, and cloudy water.
  • Total alkalinity refers to acid buffers in the water that prevent the pH from bouncing up and down. When total alkalinity is too low, pools will not only see bouncing pH levels but also corrosiveness and staining. When total alkalinity is too high, the pool water will be cloudy.
  • Calcium hardness refers to the amount of dissolved calcium in the water. If there is not enough calcium, the water can cause plaster finish etching and shorten the life of vinyl liners. If calcium is too high, you will begin to find calcium deposits on your swim equipment.
  • Metals such as iron and copper should be removed from the water as much as possible because they can cause staining.

Pool maintenance is more than just chemicals. It is very important that the water is regularly circulated with a pump to keep the water moving and filtered in order to remove dust and dirt. Given the wide range of pools and sizes there is not really a “one size fits all” solution so we recommend checking with our pool team to ensure proper circulation and filtration.

Be Safe. Adding pool chemicals should not be a science experiment. Always read labels, do not mix chemicals, do not add chemicals while people are swimming, and make sure to wash your hands!

Stop by today to have your pool water tested! Happy swimming from all of us here at Vande Hey Company!

Landscaping Management 101: July

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Things are heating up and summer is moving full force ahead. Along with the heat, keeping things hydrated and battling disease will be our biggest challenge. Don’t forget to keep yourself hydrated as well as you move forward with your July Landscape Management 101!

EARLY JULY

  • Stop harvesting asparagus and rhubarb.
  • Don’t neglect vegetable garden; continue weed control and watch leaves for signs of disease.
  • Water flower border once a week during dry periods.
  • Spray or dust tomatoes for blight control.
  • Spray or dust squashes, melons, and cucumbers to prevent bacterial wilt.
  • Deadhead annuals and perennials after flowering to encourage the plant to spend its energy producing more flowers or foliage and roots.
  • Fertilize flowering annuals to give an extra boost of energy.

MID JULY

  • Prune Yews, Junipers, and Arborvitae by mid-July.
  • Watch for rust on hollyhocks.
  • Renovate old strawberry plantings when bearing is finished.
  • Pick off dead flowers for attractive borders and blooms.
  • Keep an eye out for webs from webworm on woody plants. Cut out branches wrapped in webbing and spray with insecticide.
  • Keep plants, especially vegetables, evenly moist to promote good health as it gets warmer.
  • Harvest raspberries regularly to help discourage insects.

LATE JULY

  • Stop feeding roses and most perennials.
  • Tie Dahlias to stakes.
  • Keep lawn mown at 2 1/2” height.
  • Make last granular fertilizer applications on woody plants.
  • Alpine Currant shrubs infected with fungus will lose leaves and may defoliate completely. Fallen leaves should be removed and destroyed to reduce infection next year.
  • Watch for powdery mildew and leaf spot diseases on flowers and ornamentals.
  • Honeysuckles susceptible to aphids should be sprayed every 10-14 days with insecticidal soap.

As always, let us know if you have questions! We can give suggestions, recommend product, and help you create the beautiful backyard you’re striving toward. Call 920.788.6344 today!

Festive Fourth of July Cocktails & Appetizer

An “Almost” Complete Guide to Buying an Outdoor Dining Set

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When buying an outdoor dining furniture set there is an absolute smorgasbord of styles, sizes, and add-ons that can leave an anyone’s head spinning. We created this “Almost” Complete Buying Guide to help break down some of the must-ask questions and different options to help you make best choice for your outdoor furniture.

First things first, you are going to want to think about the following questions:

  • How many people will typically be utilizing the set?
  • How big is the outdoor space?
  • How often do you entertain?
  • Who will be using the furniture (children, adults, elderly)?

Decide on a set size. Once you decide how many people will typically be using the set you can decide how large of a set you will need. Whether it is a cozy two piece for you and your partner, a nine piece for a large family or anything in between, as long as it fits on your patio we can help you make it happen. Shape is also an important factor. A square or rectangular table will provide a more modern straight-lined look while a circular table is more free-flowing and rustic. You should also consider that a circular table makes it easier to add extra chairs.

Choose your height. Dining height, counter height and bar height all provide unique benefits and visual appeal.

  • Dining height can be dressed up for formal dinners or dressed down for casual nights outside. It is easier to get in and out of than a much taller bar height and is comfortable for extended periods of sitting.
  • Counter height is the middle option providing some added height if people are standing around and looking for a place to put their drink. It is also the easiest to get in and out of because it does not require sitting down into or stepping up into.
  • Bar height provides a more casual look that is perfect for leaning up against and standing around. While it creates a higher viewing platform, it can be difficult for children and elderly to climb up into.

Choose a seating option. While standard dining chairs are great, you will also want to consider adding arms and maybe even a swivel. Arms not only add comfort but also make it easier to get in and out of the chair. A swivel chair allows both a change of view and the ability to get in and out without moving the chair. The swivel chairs are particularly beneficial if you choose a polyethylene set due to heavy weight of the chairs. Other options include stools that create a bar-like feel with a higher table height or benches which are a great way to increase seating space especially with small kids.

Choose your materials and color. Our most popular dining sets are made from HDPE recycled plastic which provides numerous benefits. It is very heavy preventing it from blowing in the wind, it can be left outside all year long, and it is colored all the way through minimizing scratching and fading. Other people prefer teak which gives a more natural feel. Teak is a very durable and strong wood that naturally regulates its temperature. Our third most popular set is rattan which is not only lightweight but also creates a beach-like feel. Choose your colors and you are a full step closer to finalizing your new dining set! If you are not sure how to choose your colors, ask us and we would be happy to find the perfect color to fit your style!

Do I want an umbrella? Whether it is a large umbrella extending over the patio or a standard umbrella in your table, an umbrella provides a cool area on hot days and protection when it rains. An umbrella is also a great way to bring in some bright accent colors and make your set pop!  

Should I add a rug? While it may not be the best fit practically around a pool or muddy area, a rug can bring in a splash of color and comfort. It is also a great way to cozy up an outdoor area. If you decide to go with a rug, you want to make sure it is at least two feet longer than your table, so the entire set remains on the rug.

Add your finishing touches. To take your patio set to the next level, consider adding outdoor cushions for comfort and style, a centerpiece with fresh cut flowers, a table cloth, a fire feature, and maybe some stylish napkins or dining pieces. Little details make big statements and take your dining set to the next level.

You might be wondering why this guide is “not complete.” While we have provided a ton of information, it is not complete because it is missing one important thing—you. It is missing your opinion, your style, and your color preferences. Ultimately, you are the decision-maker and we are just here to help you along! Learn more about the furniture we offer here or stop by and talk to a Vande Hey Company representative.